Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2025-08-31
Bulletin Contents

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Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (408) 246-2770
  • Fax:
  • (408) 246-0143
  • Street Address:

  • 1260 Davis Street

  • San Jose, CA 95126
  • Mailing Address:

  • 986 Chapman Street

  • San Jose, CA 95126


Contact Information






Services Schedule

Sundays

Orthros at 8:15am followed by Divine Liturgy 9:30am
Church School 9:30 a.m.

Weekdays: Orthros at 8:30am followed by Divine Liturgy 9:30 a.m.

Feast Days: see embedded Calendar on website: www.saintnicholas.org

Confessions: Please call Office.


Past Bulletins


Special Services

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

Please join in prayer for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord:  

JOHN CHRIS KOURETAS (40 DAYS), husband of Sophia, father of Chris (Carey) and Tom (Cheryl), grandfather of Bella, Lola, Yana, and Lucy; brother of Panagiotis and Vashio

NICHOLAOS AND DESPOINA VRENIOS (ANNUAL), parents of Kanella Sarros, grandparents of Andrea Patzakis and Ariadne Tcharos, great grandparents of Alexandra, Mia, Theoharis, Alexander, and Michael

 

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Alexis Geranios, Tina Michael, Joanne Pagonis, and Stephanie Scordelis in the Community Center with support from families with memorial services.  We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts for September 7, 2025:  Joanne Costouros, Antonia Komianos, Mimi Mengisteab, Kanella Sarros, Eleni Stratigopoulos

**Please note:  Printed Sunday scripture readings are available in the Narthex**

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Special Announcements

PRAYERS FOR VICTIMS OF THE MINNEAPOLIS SCHOOL SHOOTING

Our deepest sympathy and our prayers go out to those victims and their families and community who lost their peace and lives in Minneapolis.

Please read the message from the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco: https://sanfran.goarch.org/news/prayers-for-victims-of-the-minneapolis-school-shooting


YOUNG ADULT CONFERENCE

Fr. James is attending the Young Adult Conference in Seattle.  Please pray for all the young adults attending that our Lord will guide them to spiritual maturity.


HALLS CLOSURE NOTICE - AUGUST 25-29TH

Important notice: The Community Center and Small Hall will be closed from Monday, August 25th through Friday, August 29th for floor refinishing. We kindly ask that you do not enter either hall during this period. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.


CHURCH OFFICE

Please note that the office will be closed on Monday, September 1st for the Labor Day holiday.

However, if you have a pastoral emergency and you need to reach a priest, please call 408-246-2781.


WARM COAT DRIVE - OCTOBER

St. Nicholas Goya and St. Anna Philoptochos will once more be having a warm coat drive.  We will have containers in the Small Hall and in the Community Cccccenter for your most welcomed and needed donations.   

The Drive will begin on September 1st and end on October 31st and it will benefit the San Jose Family Center.

We thank you for your help in this very worthy need.  Should you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact:  Laurie Sahines [email protected] or Eva Vathis  [email protected].


SUNDAY SCHOOL - PLEASE REGISTER

We’re joyfully preparing for the new Sunday School year and can’t wait to welcome your children back! Our first day of classes will be Sunday, September 21st, beginning with our blessed Agiasmo service to start the year in prayer and unity.

If you haven’t registered your child yet, please do so as soon as possible to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for all.

Thank you for your continued support and for entrusting us with your children’s spiritual journey. We look forward to a year filled with learning, laughter, and faith.

Registration here:  https://forms.gle/SmWFEMyuKbZ5zfar7

 


NEW DANCE GROUP: "TA MIKRA"

A new dance group for Kindergarten and 1st Grade students (No TK), Ta Mikra, will begin on September 14th. Dancers should meet in the Sunday School Courtyard after Liturgy.


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Upcoming Events

GOLDEN YEARS MEETING

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, September 9th at 11:30am in the Small Hall.   Please contact Christina Kouvaris at 408-306-8007 or email [email protected] if you have any questions.


GOYA

GOYA: This ministry is for any 6th-12th Graders who want to learn more about their faith, and have fellowship with other Orthodox Christians in our parish. We have sessions, social outings, meetings, and gatherings on a monthly basis. Please join us as we kick off our new year of GOYA . The first meeting will take place in Room 11 on Sunday, September 14 following church service.

To register for GOYA, go to: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_goya  


FATHER BERRIS GOLF CLASSIC

Please join us on Monday, September 15, 2025 for the 36th Annual Father Berris Golf Classic. The tournament benefits Father Berris Seminarian Scholarships and the youth ministries of St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. We will have a great day of golf at the beautiful Silver Creek Valley Country Club in San Jose.

The event includes a 4-player scramble, box lunch, an awards dinner following golf and much more! Registration is now open at www.FrBerrisGolf.org and remember to invite your friends to play.

Check out all the Sponsor opportunities too. Can't play? You can make a donation and/or join us for dinner. We appreciate your support! For more information contact us at: [email protected]. Please see the attached flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin.


AFTERNOON TEA CELEBRATION - HONORING EIGHT DECADES OF OUR PARISH (1945--2025)

The St. Anna Philoptochos and Daughters of Penelope Daphne #29 cordially invite you to an elegant Afternoon Tea in celebration of

Eight Decades of Our Parish history and community.

Date: Saturday, September 20th
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: St. Nicholas Church Community Center
1260 Davis Street, San Jose, CA 95126
Admission: $35.00
Dress Code: Your favorite decade (1945–2025)

Join us as we honor our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to our future—together in faith, fellowship, and fun!

RSVP by September 14th to Stacy Panayotopoulos at [email protected] or 408.440.7621


END OF SUMMER BBQ!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 27th at 12:00pm — we’re gathering for an unforgettable End of Summer BBQ at the beloved Blackberry Farm!  This park holds decades of cherished memories for our community, and as we celebrate Saint Nicholas’ 80th Anniversary, we’re excited to make new ones together.

Bring your families and your appetite—there will be delicious food, joyful fellowship, and fun for all ages.  A heartfelt thank you to the San Jose Chapter of the Pan-Arcadian Federation of America and Saint Nicholas Church for sponsoring this special outing.

Please RSVP now—call, text, or email Pete Panos:  408-835-9092; [email protected]. Let’s honor our past and celebrate our future—together!


AHEPA BLOOD DRIVE

BE A HERO: GIVE BLOOD TODAY! BLOOD DRIVE: Tuesday, September 30th, 1:00pm - 5:30pm, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church 1260 Davis St, San Jose, Small Hall.

Just a few minutes of your time can help save lives! Must be at least 18 years old, weigh over 110 lbs, and be in good health. For more info or help in making an appointment, contact Vassilis Zarifis at [email protected]  or  reference the link in the attached flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin to reserve your spot: 

Portal .::. Sites

New donors must register their profile by creating a login account using the link above and before making an actual appointment.  


VOLLEYBALL PRACTICES

Volleyball practices for our 20th Annual St Nicholas Volleyball Tournament begin Tuesday, September 2nd at 6pm in the Community Center.  Please join us!

Tuesday Nights
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm - Junior High
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm - High School 

Thursday Nights
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm - Adults 

Sunday Nights
7:00pm - Open Gym practices for High School, Young Adult and Adult

If you should have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Chairman George Spilios (408) 806-1699 or Head Coach Michael Kanakis (408) 722-0808.

Come join the fun!  The Volleyball Tournament is scheduled for the weekend of October 17-19th.


COLLEGE STUDENT MINISTRY

Please mark your calendar for the next 2025 Saint Nicholas San Jose College Ministry event on Monday, September 29, 2025!

Paraklesis at 6:15am followed by food and fellowship in the Office Conference Room at 7:00pm.

For more information and to RSVP, please contact Fr. Nebojsa or [email protected]


MISSIONS MINISTRY MOVIE AND DINNER NIGHT

Please save the date for a movie and dinner night, on Saturday, October 11 at 5:30 pm, at the Community Center. 

The movie will be announced soon and is open to all.  Please invite your friends.  Refreshments, wine and a buffet dinner will be served. 

Open donations, with proceeds to benefit Sister Nektaria and her school projects in India. 

For planning purposes RSVP is requested but not required, at [email protected] or by text at 408-425-6967.  See you at the movies!


SENIOR RESORT CAMP - ST. NICHOLAS RANCH - DUNLAP

Look to the Mountain!

Senior Resort Camp is being held October 6th - 10th at the St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center in Dunlap California.  See the link to register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdADtozJYeXw_CoxK365cnCZhx2Lvh1tmOCqQKnkDGOpvWtVg/viewform

Enjoy a fun-filled week at camp for adults ages 50 or better. Experience the beauty of St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center, participate in engaging activities, poolside happy hours, and more, with friends from across the Metropolis. 

Look to the Mountain begins with registration,  late afternoon on Monday, October 6, followed by dinner at the Ranch.  Senior Camp will conclude following breakfast on Friday, October 10.

Registration for Senior Camp is handled through St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Fresno, CA.  See the link above to register.  For more information please contact the church office at 559-233-0397 or [email protected].

Registration payments can be made by credit card or check.  Registration is not complete until payment has been received.  


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Special Events

    Fr. Berris Golf Classic - San Jose - September 15th

    Fr. Berris Golf Classic - San Jose - September 15th

    Please join us on Monday, September 15, 2025 for the 36th Annual Father Berris Golf Classic. The tournament benefits Father Berris Seminarian Scholarships and the youth ministries of St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. We will have a great day of golf at the beautiful Silver Creek Valley Country Club in San Jose. The event includes a 4-player scramble, box lunch, an awards dinner following golf and much more! Registration is now open at www.FrBerrisGolf.org and remember to invite your friends to play. Check out all the Sponsor opportunities too. Can't play? You can make a donation and/or join us for dinner. We appreciate your support! For more information contact us at: [email protected].


    Afternoon Tea Celebration - St. Nicholas - Honoring Eight Decades of our Parish - Sat, Sept 20th

    Afternoon Tea Celebration - St. Nicholas - Honoring Eight Decades of our Parish - Sat, Sept 20th

    The St. Anna Philoptochos and Daughters of Penelope Daphne #29 cordially invite you to an elegant Afternoon Tea in celebration of Eight Decades of Our Parish history and community. Date: Saturday, September 20th Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM Location: St. Nicholas Church Community Center 1260 Davis Street, San Jose, CA 95126 Admission: $35.00 Dress Code: Your favorite decade (1945–2025) Join us as we honor our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to our future—together in faith, fellowship, and fun! RSVP by September 14th to Stacy Panayotopoulos at [email protected] or 408.440.7621


    End of Summer BBQ!  Blackberry Farm, Sat, Sept 27th

    End of Summer BBQ! Blackberry Farm, Sat, Sept 27th

    Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 27th at 12:00pm — we’re gathering for an unforgettable End of Summer BBQ at the beloved Blackberry Farm! This park holds decades of cherished memories for our community, and as we celebrate Saint Nicholas’ 80th Anniversary, we’re excited to make new ones together. Bring your families and your appetite—there will be delicious food, joyful fellowship, and fun for all ages. A heartfelt thank you to the San Jose Chapter of the Pan-Arcadian Federation of America and Saint Nicholas Church for sponsoring this special outing. Please RSVP now—call, text, or email Pete Panos: 408-835-9092; [email protected]. Let’s honor our past and celebrate our future—together!


    Ahepa Blood Drive - St. Nicholas - Tuesday, September 30th

    Ahepa Blood Drive - St. Nicholas - Tuesday, September 30th

    BE A HERO: GIVE BLOOD TODAY! BLOOD DRIVE: Tuesday, September 30th, 1:00pm - 5:30pm, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church 1260 Davis St, San Jose, Small Hall. Just a few minutes of your time can help save lives! Must be at least 18 years old, weigh over 110 lbs, and be in good health. For more info or help in making an appointment, contact Vassilis Zarifis at [email protected] or reference the link in the attached flyer. New donors must register their profile by creating a login account using the link above and before making an actual appointment.


    80th Anniversary Events - St. Nicholas - Mark your Calendars!

    80th Anniversary Events - St. Nicholas - Mark your Calendars!

    See the updated flyer! Save the dates!


    Belmont Greek Festival - Sat & Sun, Aug 30-31

    Belmont Greek Festival - Sat & Sun, Aug 30-31

    The Belmont Greek Festival will be held Labor Day Weekend, Sat. and Sun., Aug. 30-31, Noon-10 PM, at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church, 900 Alameda de las Pulgas (corner of Ralston Ave.), in Belmont. Delicious Greek meals and pastries, music and dancing, concerts, a mythology play, and bookstore! For information: belmontgreekfestival.com, or (650) 591-4447.


    Senior Resort Camp! Look to the Mountains - Oct 6-10th - Dunlap

    Senior Resort Camp! Look to the Mountains - Oct 6-10th - Dunlap

    See the attached flyer.


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Schedule of Services

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE BY LIVESTREAM ON YOUTUBE UNDER THE NAME: SAINT NICHOLAS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH SAN JOSE. 

 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1x-nHP063YTTMrevkzL21w/   

Sunday, August 31 - 12th Sunday of Matthew
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, September 1 - Ecclesiastical New Year
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, September 7 - Sunday Before the Holy Cross
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

 

LIGHT A CANDLE: https://saintnicholas.org/vigil_candle

Online Links to the Text of Church Services:

At our parish we use an online tool for all of our Liturgical services called Ages Initiatives. Please know that we always encourage participation through the praying of the services, and this online resource is the primary resource we use at the chant stand and the Altar.  To access services, please check out the daily calendar available on Ages: 

https://dcs.goarch.org/goa/dcs/dcs.html

Also, there is an Application that you can use and download on the Apple platform:  

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/digital-chant-stand/id891132857

Please also note that you can use this resource for the services we have in our church, and that we will be using this resource as well. 

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Education Programs

CENTER OF HELLENIC EDUCATION

We are pleased to announce that the Center of Hellenic Education is now accepting registrations for the 2025-2026 academic year!

How to Register:

  1. Complete the Online Registration Form:  Greek School: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_greek_school

Important Dates:

  • Classes Begin: Monday (online courses), August 26, 2024

Programs Offered:

We offer a wide range of programs to suit various interests and educational needs, including:

School Age Greek Language Classes (3-18 years old)

1. In-person classes: Offered on Tuesdays & Thursdays 5:00 pm - 6:45 pm & Saturdays 10:00 am - 11:45 am.

2. On-Line classes: These classes are time flex and are offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, and/or Fridays.

Adult Greek Language Classes (18 years and older)

New Testament Greek: Tuesdays 6:30 - 9:00 pm

Intermediate Conversational Greek: Thursdays 6:30 - 9:00 pm

Beginner Conversational Greek: Saturdays 10:00 am - 12:30 pm

For more up-to-date information in regards to the adult Greek classes kindly contact: Dr. Peter Nanopoulos at [email protected] 

Community Activities (All students & families):

In addition to the classes, several assemblies occur annually to celebrate the following national holidays: October 28th (OXI Day), March 25th (Greek Independence Day), Christmas, and the Graduation/End-of-the-school-year party. Parents and other family members attend or participate in the gathering, while the students recite poems, skits, songs, and dances.

We look forward to welcoming you to a vibrant and engaging academic year!


DID YOU KNOW?

New from the Department of Religious Education of our Archdiocese!  Take a look:  https://www.goarch.org/departments/religioused/didyouknow


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Stewardship and Donations

ST. NICHOLAS STEWARDSHIP 2025

Stewardship 2025 as of August 28, 2025

Goal: $593,000 (Approved 2025 Budget)
Pledged: $406,276
Pledges Paid: $317,276
Median Pledge $750; Average Pledge: $1,220
Outstanding unpaid commitments: $89,000
Number of Stewards Pledging: 333

Stewardship 2024 on August 29, 2024 for comparison purposes:

Goal: $491,000 (Approved 2024 Budget with tentative stretch goal of $500,000)
Pledged: $392,785
Pledges Paid: $315,977
Average Pledge: $1,212
Outstanding unpaid commitments: $76,808
Number of Stewards Pledging: 324

Dedicate yourself to Christ and His mission here at Saint Nicholas.  Look for opportunities to volunteer your time and talents, and pay toward your 2025 commitment pledge. 

Not a Steward of Saint Nicholas?  Please prayerfully consider becoming a Steward by completing the 2025 Stewardship Commitment Card.  You may also submit your commitment either online or by mailing it to the Church Office.

To give by mail: Stewardship 

                        St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
                        986 Chapman Street
                        San Jose, CA 95126

To make a committment electronically, please visit our online stewardship: https://saintnicholas.org/stewardship

Donation link: https://saintnicholas.org/donation


DOES YOUR EMPLOYER OFFER MATCHING DONATIONS?

Your employer could be offering Matching Gifts Programs as an easy and structured way for them to support good work in the community. Please ASK your employer if they offer some type of philanthropic program in which a company may financially match donations that their employees make to nonprofit organizations. When an employee makes a donation, they will request the matching gift from their employer to the specific nonprofit organization. In order to assist our Saint Nicholas Community, we are kindly asking that you learn more about Company Matching Donations at work by inquiring with your Company's Human Resources Department if it offers a similar program. Please note that Saint Nicholas Church would be identified in a Company Matching Program as "Greek Orthodox Community of Santa Clara County". 

St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church is a 501©3 Corporation and our tax ID is 94-1578745. 


LIGHT A CANDLE

In our Light A Candle program, vigil candle(s) are lit along with an opportunity to submit names to be prayed for at the Prothesis (Preparation) for forty days. Only Orthodox Christian first names (baptismal names) should be submittedIt is important to separate the names of the living and the reposed.  When lit, the vigil candles last for one week.  Please see the online form on our website or use the link below.  

Donate online here: Light A Candle: https://saintnicholas.org/vigil_candle

If you would prefer to mail in your request, please write the name(s) for whom the candle(s) will be lit and send to Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, Attention: Light a Candle, 986 Chapman Street, San Jose, CA 9126.  For more information, please call the church office.


DONATIONS VIA FACEBOOK

We are a registered non-profit on Facebook and you can donate any time (without any fees for the church) by pressing the donate button in this link:  https://www.facebook.com/SaintNicholasOrg/


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Ministries and Organizations

YOUTH MINISTRIES REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Sunday School 

Register here for the new year: Sunday School: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_sunday_school

 Greek Folk Dance

Register for the 2025-2026 Dance program here:  

Greek Folk Dance: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_greek_dance

Greek School

Our Greek School has both in-person and online classes for all ages and levels.  The new 2025-2026 registration link for the Greek school is now active:

Greek School: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_greek_school

Basketball 

Information and registration here: Basketball: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_basketball  

Altar Servers:   

Any young men over the age of 7 and interested in serving the altar are invited to join one of our Altar Groups for the next ecclesiastical year. 

Altar Servers: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_altar_servers

GOYA

GOYA is a ministry for children from 6th - 12th grades.  We meet every 2nd Sunday of the month and have social events throughout the year, as well as sessions and retreats.  For more information please visit our site:  GOYA: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_goya

JOY/HOPE

JOY/HOPE is a ministry for children from Kindergarten to 5th Grade and open to all. We meet every 3rd Tuesday of the Month in the evening at 7:00pm.  For more information visit our site: 

JOY/ HOPE: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_joy_hope


GILROY FAMILY FELLOWSHIP

We are embarking on a new ministry opportunity for families living along the 101 corridor, south of San Jose! 

Any families or individuals who would like to join us for a once a month ministry opportunity for fellowship and faith based lessons for the whole family, can contact Fr. Nebojsa for more information at [email protected].  

To RSVP and receive a location address please contact Fr. Nebojsa due to limited space for this first gathering.  We hope to provide new locations and ministry activities every month. 


GREEK PASTRIES, KOLLYVA, ARTOKLASIA & PROSPHORA

If you wish to order kollyva, artoklasia, prosphora, paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, or other Greek pastries, please see the bakers listed below with their phone numbers to call.  Payment is arranged with the bakers and not the church.

For kollyva:   Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124  

For paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, and other Greek pastries:   Maria Tsaboukos  408-723-5175      Antonia Komianos  408-472-3888     Marcella Fotis  408-723-4124.

For artoklasia:  Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888   Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124   

For prosphora:  Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124


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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Matins Gospel Reading

First Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Matthew 28:16-20

At that time, the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw Him they worshiped Him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age. Amen."

First Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Ματθαῖον 28:16-20

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, οἱ ἕνδεκα μαθηταὶ ἐπορεύθησαν εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν, εἰς τὸ Ὄρος, οὗ ἐτάξατο αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς. Καὶ ἰδόντες αὐτόν, προσεκύνησαν αὐτῷ· οἱ δὲ ἐδίστασαν. Καὶ προσελθὼν ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ἐλάλησεν αὐτοῖς, λέγων· Ἐδόθη μοι πᾶσα ἐξουσία ἐν οὐρανῷ καὶ ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς. Πορευθέντες οὖν, μαθητεύσατε πάντα τὰ ἔθνη, βαπτίζοντες αὐτοὺς εἰς τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Πατρός, καὶ τοῦ Υἱοῦ, καὶ τοῦ Ἁγίου Πνεύματος· διδάσκοντες αὐτοὺς τηρεῖν πάντα ὅσα ἐνετειλάμην ὑμῖν. Καὶ ἰδού, ἐγὼ μεθ' ὑμῶν εἰμι πάσας τὰς ἡμέρας, ἕως τῆς συντελείας τοῦ αἰῶνος. Ἀμήν.


Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. 3rd Mode. Luke 1: 46-48.
My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
Verse: For he has regarded the humility of his servant.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 9:1-7.

BRETHREN, the first covenant had regulations for worship and an earthly sanctuary. For a tent was prepared, the outer one, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of the Presence; it is called the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain stood a tent called the Holy of Holies, having the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, which contained a golden urn holding the manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat. Of these things we cannot now speak in detail. These preparations having thus been made, the priests go continually into the outer tent, performing their ritual duties; but into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood which he offers for himself and for the errors of the people.

Προκείμενον. 3rd Mode. Λουκάν 1:46-48.
Μεγαλύνει ἡ ψυχή μου τὸν Κύριον, καὶ ἠγαλλίασε τὸ πνεῦμά μου ἐπὶ τῷ Θεῷ τῷ σωτῆρί μου.
Στίχ. Ὅτι ἐπέβλεψεν ἐπὶ τὴν ταπείνωσιν τῆς δούλης αὐτοῦ.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Ἑβραίους 9:1-7.

Ἀδελφοί, εἶχεν ἡ πρώτη σκηνὴ δικαιώματα λατρείας, τό τε ἅγιον κοσμικόν. Σκηνὴ γὰρ κατεσκευάσθη ἡ πρώτη, ἐν ᾗ ἥ τε λυχνία καὶ ἡ τράπεζα καὶ ἡ πρόθεσις τῶν ἄρτων, ἥτις λέγεται ἅγια. Μετὰ δὲ τὸ δεύτερον καταπέτασμα σκηνὴ ἡ λεγομένη ἅγια ἁγίων, χρυσοῦν ἔχουσα θυμιατήριον, καὶ τὴν κιβωτὸν τῆς διαθήκης περικεκαλυμμένην πάντοθεν χρυσίῳ, ἐν ᾗ στάμνος χρυσῆ ἔχουσα τὸ μάννα, καὶ ἡ ῥάβδος Ἀαρὼν ἡ βλαστήσασα, καὶ αἱ πλάκες τῆς διαθήκης· ὑπεράνω δὲ αὐτῆς Χερουβὶμ δόξης κατασκιάζοντα τὸ ἱλαστήριον· περὶ ὧν οὐκ ἔστιν νῦν λέγειν κατὰ μέρος. Τούτων δὲ οὕτως κατεσκευασμένων, εἰς μὲν τὴν πρώτην σκηνὴν διὰ παντὸς εἰσίασιν οἱ ἱερεῖς, τὰς λατρείας ἐπιτελοῦντες· εἰς δὲ τὴν δευτέραν ἅπαξ τοῦ ἐνιαυτοῦ μόνος ὁ ἀρχιερεύς, οὐ χωρὶς αἵματος, ὃ προσφέρει ὑπὲρ ἑαυτοῦ καὶ τῶν τοῦ λαοῦ ἀγνοημάτων·


Gospel Reading

12th Sunday of Matthew
The Reading is from Matthew 19:16-26

At that time, a young man came up to Jesus, kneeling and saying, "Good Teacher, what good deed must I do, to have eternal life?" And he said to him, "Why do you call me good? One there is who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments." He said to him, "Which?" And Jesus said, "You shall not kill, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother, and You shall love your neighbor as yourself." The young man said to him, "All these I have observed; what do I still lack?" Jesus said to him, "If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.

And Jesus said to his disciples, "Truly, I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." When the disciples heard this they were greatly astonished, saying, "Who then can be saved?" But Jesus looked at them and said to them, "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."

12th Sunday of Matthew
Κατὰ Ματθαῖον 19:16-26

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, νεανίσκος τις προσῆλθε τῷ Ἰησοῦ, γονυπετῶν αὐτόν, καὶ λέγων· Διδάσκαλε ἀγαθέ, τί ἀγαθὸν ποιήσω ἵνα ἔχω ζωὴν αἰώνιον; ‘O δὲ εἶπεν αὐτῷ· τί με λέγεις ἀγαθόν; οὐδεὶς ἀγαθὸς εἰ μὴ εἷς ὁ Θεός. εἰ δὲ θέλεις εἰσελθεῖν εἰς τὴν ζωήν, τήρησον τὰς ἐντολάς. λέγει αὐτῷ· ποίας; ὁ δὲ ᾿Ιησοῦς εἶπε· τὸ οὐ φονεύσεις, οὐ μοιχεύσεις, οὐ κλέψεις, οὐ ψευδομαρτυρήσεις, τίμα τὸν πατέρα καὶ τὴν μητέρα, καὶ ἀγαπήσεις τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν. λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ νεανίσκος· πάντα ταῦτα ἐφυλαξάμην ἐκ νεότητός μου· τί ἔτι ὑστερῶ; ἔφη αὐτῷ ὁ ῾Ιησοῦς· εἰ θέλεις τέλειος εἶναι, ὕπαγε πώλησόν σου τὰ ὑπάρχοντα καὶ δὸς πτωχοῖς, καὶ ἕξεις θησαυρὸν ἐν οὐρανῷ, καὶ δεῦρο ἀκολούθει μοι. ἀκούσας δὲ ὁ νεανίσκος τὸν λόγον ἀπῆλθε λυπούμενος· ἦν γὰρ ἔχων κτήματα πολλά. ῾Ο δὲ ᾿Ιησοῦς εἶπε τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ· ἀμὴν λέγω ὑμῖν ὅτι δυσκόλως πλούσιος εἰσελεύσεται εἰς τὴν βασιλείαν τῶν οὐρανῶν. πάλιν δὲ λέγω ὑμῖν, εὐκοπώτερόν ἐστι κάμηλον διὰ τρυπήματος ῥαφίδος διελθεῖν ἢ πλούσιον εἰς τὴν βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ εἰσελθεῖν. ἀκούσαντες δὲ οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ ἐξεπλήσσοντο σφόδρα λέγοντες· τίς ἄρα δύναται σωθῆναι; ἐμβλέψας δὲ ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς εἶπεν αὐτοῖς· παρὰ ἀνθρώποις τοῦτο ἀδύνατόν ἐστι, παρὰ δὲ Θεῷ πάντα δυνατά ἐστι.


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Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the 3rd Mode

Let the heavens sing for joy, and let everything on earth be glad. * For with His Arm the Lord has worked power. * He trampled death under foot by means of death; * and He became the firstborn from the dead. * From the maw of Hades He delivered us; * and He granted the world His great mercy.
Εὐφραινέσθω τὰ οὐράνια, ἀγαλλιάσθω τὰ ἐπίγεια, ὅτι ἐποίησε κράτος, ἐν βραχίονι αὐτοῦ, ὁ Κύριος, ἐπάτησε τῷ θανάτῳ τὸν θάνατον, πρωτότοκος τῶν νεκρῶν ἐγένετο, ἐκ κοιλίας ᾅδου ἐρρύσατο ἡμᾶς, καὶ παρέσχε τῷ κόσμῳ τὸ μέγα ἔλεος.

Apolytikion for Venerable Sash of the Theotokos in the Plagal 4th Mode

O Ever-Virgin Theotokos, shelter of mankind, thou hast bestowed upon thy people a mighty investure, even thine immaculate body's raiment and sash, which by thy seedless childbirth have remained incorrupt; for in thee nature and time are made new. Wherefore, we implore thee to grant peace to the world, and great mercy to our souls.
Θεοτόκε Αειπάρθενε, τών ανθρώπων η σκέπη, Εσθήτα καί Zώνην τού αχράντου σου σώματος, κραταιάν τή πόλει σου περιβολήν εδωρήσω, τώ ασπόρω τόκω σου άφθαρτα διαμείναντα, επί σοί γάρ καί φύσις καινοτομείται καί χρόνος, διό δυσωπούμέν σε, ειρήνην τή πολιτεία σου δώρησαι, καί ταίς ψυχαίς ημών τό μέγα έλεος.

Apolytikion of Saint Nicholas in the 1st Mode

An example of the faith and a life of humility, as a teacher of self-control you did inspire and lead your flock, and through the truthfulness of your deeds, were exalted by greatness through your humility, uplifting all, and by poverty gaining strength. Father and hierarch Saint Nicholas, intercede with Christ our God, that our souls may be saved.

Κανόνα πίστεως καί εικόνα πραότητος, εγκρατείας Διδάσκαλον, ανέδειξέ σε τή ποίμνη σου, η τών πραγμάτων αλήθεια, διά τούτο εκτήσω τή ταπεινώσει τά υψηλά, τή πτωχεία τά πλούσια, Πάτερ Ιεράρχα Νικόλαε, πρέσβευε Χριστώ τώ Θεώ, σωθήναι τάς ψυχάς ημών.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 2nd Mode

Thy precious sash, O Theotokos, which encompassed thy God-receiving womb, is an invincible force for thy flock, and an unfailing treasury of every good, O only Ever-virgin Mother.
Τήν θεοδόχον γαστέρα σου Θεοτόκε, περιλαβούσα η Zώνη σου η τιμία, κράτος τή πόλει σου απροσμάχητον, καί θησαυρός υπάρχει, τών αγαθών ανέκλειπτος, η μόνη τεκούσα αειπάρθενος.
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Saints and Feasts

August 31

12th Sunday of Matthew


August 31

The Placing of the Honorable Sash of the Most Holy Theotokos

Although the historical accounts differ somewhat, the Deposition that is celebrated today took place most likely during the reign of Emperor Arcadius (395-408), when the precious Cincture of the Mother of God was brought from Zela of Cappadocia to Constantinople, and placed in the Church of the Theotokos in the section of Chalcopratia.


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Kontakion of the Fallen Asleep

Remember, O Lord, as good, your servants, and forgive whatever sins in life they committed, for no one is without sin, except you the Mighty One; and grant rest to them who have been removed from among us.

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Wisdom of the Fathers

Rise from love of the world and love of pleasure. Put care aside, strip your mind, refuse your body. Prayer, after all, is a turning away from the world, visible and invisible. What have I in heaven? Nothing except simply to cling always to You in undistracted prayer. Wealth pleases some, glory others, possessions others, but what I want is to cling to God and to put the hopes of my dispassion in Him (cf. Ps. 72:25, 28).
St. John Climacus
Ladder of Divine Ascent, Step 28: On Prayer; Paulist Press pg. 277, 6th century

Spiritual delight is not enjoyment found in things that exists outside the soul.
St. Isaac of Syria
Unknown, 7th century

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