Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2024-11-17
Bulletin Contents

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Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (412)366-8700
  • Fax:
  • (412)366-8710
  • Street Address:

  • 985 Providence Blvd.

  • Pittsburgh, PA 15237-5951


Contact Information










Services Schedule

Worship Schedule

8:15 a.m. Orthros

9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy

Worship Locations:

Sunday worship location: Holy Trinity Church, 985 Providence Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15237

Weekday/Feast Day worship location: St. George Chapel, 8941 Ringeisen Rd., Allison Park, PA


Past Bulletins


Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Fourth Tone

The joyful news of Your Resurrection was told to the women disciples of the Lord by the angel. Having thrown off the ancestral curse, and boasting, they told the Apostles: death has been vanquished. Christ our God is risen, granting to the world great mercy. (Page 53)

Apolytikion for Gregory the Wonderworker in the Eighth Tone

By your accomplishments, you earned the name that you bore, for you were vigilant in prayer and diligent in working miracles. Therefore, holy father Gregory, intercede with Christ our God, that He illumine our souls, lest we fall asleep in sin unto death.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Fourth Tone

The most pure Temple of the Savior*, His most precious bridal chamber*, the Virgin, sacred treasury of God’s glory*, enters today into the house of the Lord*, bringing with her the grace of the divine Spirit.* Wherefore the angels of God are singing*: “Behold the heavenly tabernacle!” (Page 59)
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Saints and Feasts

November 17

9th Sunday of Luke


November 17

Gregory the Wonderworker & Bishop of Neo-Caesarea

Saint Gregory was born in Neocaesarea of Pontus to parents who were not Christians. He studied in Athens, in Alexandria, in Beirut, and finally for five years in Caesarea of Palestine under Origen, by whom he was also instructed in the Faith of Christ. Then, in the year 240, he became bishop of his own city, wherein he found only seventeen Christians. By the time the Saint reposed about the year 265, there were only seventeen unbelievers left there. Virtually the whole duration of his episcopacy was a time of continual, marvellous wonders worked by him. Because of this, he received the surname "Wonderworker"; even the enemies of the truth called him a second Moses (see Saint Basil the Great's On the Holy Spirit, ch. 29).


November 17

Gennadios I and Maximus, Patriarchs of Constantinople


November 17

Righteous Mother Hilda of Whitby

Our venerable Mother Hilda of Whitby (614-680) was the founder and the first abbess of the monastery at Whitby in northern England in the 7th century. She was of noble birth, being a kinswoman of Saint Edwin, King of Northumbria (celebrated Oct. 12). At the age of thirty-three she renounced the world, and lived another thirty-three years as a nun and abbess. The last six years of her life she suffered a burning fever with patience and nobility, and reposed in peace in the year 680.


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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Fourth Tone. Psalm 103.24,1.
O Lord, how manifold are your works. You have made all things in wisdom.
Verse: Bless the Lord, O my soul.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Galatians 2:16-20.

Brethren, knowing that a man is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ, and not by works of the law, because by works of the law shall no one be justified. But if, in our endeavor to be justified in Christ, we ourselves were found to be sinners, is Christ then an agent of sin? Certainly not! But if I build up again those things which I tore down, then I prove myself a transgressor. For I through the law died to the law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.


Gospel Reading

9th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 12:16-21

The Lord said this parable: "The land of a rich man brought forth plentifully; and he thought to himself, 'What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?' And he said, 'I will do this: I will pull down my barns, and build larger ones; and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, 'Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry.' But God said to him, 'Fool! This night your soul is required of you; and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?' So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God." As he said these things, he cried out: "He who has ears to hear, let him hear."


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Bulletin Inserts

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Wisdom of the Fathers

I cannot be silent about the story of Hesychius the Horebite. He passed his life in complete negligence, without paying the least attention to his soul. Then he became extremely ill, and for an hour he left his body. And when he came to himself, he begged us all to leave him immediately. And he built up the door of his cell, and he stayed in it for twelve years without ever uttering a word to anyone, and without eating anything but bread and water. But when he was about to die, we broke open the door and went in, and after many questions this alone was all we heard from him: 'Forgive me! No one who has acquired the remembrance of death will ever be able to sin.'
St. John Climacus
Ladder of Divine Ascent. Step 6: On Remembrance of Death, 6th Century

So by his true and praise-worthy repentance the Lord showed us that even after long negligence He accepts those who desire to amend. The remembrance of death and sins precedes weeping and mourning. The remembrance of death is a daily death. The thought of death is the most necessary of all works ... He who hourly yields himself to it is a saint- insensibility of heart dulls the mind, and abundance of food dries the fountains of tears ...
St. John Climacus
Ladder of Divine Ascent. Step 6: On Remembrance of Death, 6th Century

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Parish News and Events

 

TODAY'S EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

 

Stewardship Sunday Today – Time to complete your 2024 “Stewardship Independence” Pledge

Holy Trinity Church and all its ministries are made possible through the generous donations and support of our stewards, who offer their time, talents and treasures throughout the year. Today the Stewardship Ministry is offering the entire community thanks for the enthusiasm that powered our 2024 “Stewardship Independence” Pledge Year. As a reminder, “Stewardship Independence” sustains our church operations without depending on festival income to balance the budget, and that gives us the freedom to use your gifts to fulfill the work of the Gospel like we have never been able to do before. And that means real and concrete actions. From the progress made thus far this year, we are now able to allocate more of our festival income for philanthropic efforts. For example, we are matching the $5,448 in donations made by festival patrons in donation jars from our festival income. This will result in a donation of nearly $11,000 split between the North Hills Community Food Bank and the fire relief efforts in Greece. And our local outreach puts food on the tables of our very own neighbors right here in the North Hills. We can do more, but we need everyone to be on board. Truly, we are so thankful to all who have submitted pledges and increased their pledge to help Holy Trinity reach this milestone of Stewardship Independence. Please join them. Time to wrap up the 2024 pledge year in preparations for 2025. Not sure about your pledge status? Just log on to your Realm account at HolyTrinityPgh.org/realm, scan the QR code above or call the office at 412-377-8700.

 

Hospitality Hour

Today’s Hospitality Hour is sponsored by the Holy Trinity Stewardship Ministry in honor of Stewardship Sunday.

 

Philoptochos Diples Sale - Pick Up Today

For those who have already placed their orders for Diples, they are ready to be picked up in the Gallery today. There will also be additional Diples available for purchase. The price is 3 for $6.00. Payment may be made with cash or by check payable to "Holy Trinity Philoptochos". These delicious Greek pastries make a great addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table or can be given as a holiday gift. Thank you for your support of our Ladies Philoptochos!

 

GOYA Meeting - Today

The GOYA teen ministry will hold a meeting in the Conference Room following Church School classes today. All Holy Trinity teens (grades 7-12) are invited to attend and participate in GOYA activities.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

Upcoming Services - Locations: (HT) Holy Trinity Church; (SG) St. George Chapel, 8941 Ringeisen Rd, Allison Park, PA

- Thursday, November 21, 8:30am Orthros/9:30am Liturgy: The Entrance of the Theotokos (SG)

 

Fast in preparation for the Nativity of Christ - Through December 24

Please remember that the Fast of the Nativity is underway, lasting until Christmas morning following Liturgy. Though the first part of the fast (through December 12) is lighter, the Fast rises to the level of strict fast for the last two weeks (starting on December 13). Fasting, attendance at services, increased attention to our prayer life and participation in Holy Confession are all important parts of our preparing a place in our heart to receive the Lord at Christmas. Please see Father John with any questions you might have about this important tradition or to schedule a time for Confession.

 

Faith & Family Weekdays – Fall 2024

Faith and Family Weekdays is back, and there are many ways for each of to grow in the knowledge and practice of our faith. Ready to learn more about the Bible, about the Orthodox Church, about navigating life’s challenges as a Christian, a woman, or a man? It’s all there. There’s a lot more to church than Sundays, and here is where to find it. Watch the bulletin and check the online calendar at HolyTrinityPgh.org/calendar for details.

 THIS WEEK:

  • Mon. Nov 18, 7:00pm: “Journey to Fullness” – An overview of the Orthodox Christian Faith for newcomers interested in joining or life-long members yearning to deepen their understanding. Videos and Q&A discussion. The remaining dates are Nov 18, 25; Dec 2. All are welcome!
  • Wed. Nov 20, 6:30pm Vespers/7:00pm: “Explore the Word” - Father Radu leads us through his new book, “Icon of the Kingdom of God.” Drawing on a rich knowledge of scripture, the Church fathers, and theologians, learn what the Church is and what it means to us. The remaining dates are Nov 20; Dec 4, 11.

 

[Nov 24] Philoptochos Meeting

Our Holy Trinity Philoptochos will hold its monthly meeting next Sunday, November 24 in the Fireside Room following Divine Liturgy. All members are invited to attend. Ladies, still not a member of Philoptochos? Sign up at the meeting!

 

[Nov 24] Annual Pan-Orthodox Christmas Concert

The Orthodox Clergy Brotherhood of Greater Pittsburgh invites you to attend the Annual Pan-Orthodox Christmas Concert to be held on Sunday, November 24 beginning at 4:00pm at St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church (2110 Haymaker Rd, Monroeville, PA 15146). The concert will feature choirs from multiple Orthodox jurisdictions and the Pan-Orthodox Choir of Greater Pittsburgh. Freewill offering will benefit various Orthodox Charities. Join all for fellowship following the concert.

 

[Dec 1] GOYA Turkey Bowl

The GOYA will hold its annual Turkey Bowl Football Game on Thanksgiving Sunday, December 1, following Divine Liturgy. This is a fun and friendly GOYA tradition, and everyone is invited, players, non-players, cheerleaders, parents, and fans! Players should bring a change of clothes and shoes for playing. The flag football game will be followed by hot chocolate, meatless “walking tacos” and other goodies. Yum!

 

[Dec 2] Bereavement Ministry Meeting

Please make plans to join us for our next Bereavement Support Ministry gathering on Monday, December 2. The Holy Trinity Bereavement Support Ministry Team provides spiritual care to our parishioners and their extended family & friends in times of grief and loss of a loved one. Fellowship & Light Refreshments begin at 6:30pm followed by Group Support, Learning and Conversation from 7:00-8:00pm. All are welcome to participate in group sharing or observe through quiet time with others who care. To learn more about our Bereavement Support Ministry and/or our private support sessions, please contact Amy Armanious at [email protected].

 

[Dec 3] Annual Philoptochos Seniors Christmas Luncheon

The Holy Trinity Philoptochos will host its annual Seniors Christmas Luncheon on Tuesday, December 3. Holy Trinity members, ages 60 & over, are invited to attend. The day will begin with church services at 8:30am Orthros/9:30am Divine Liturgy for the Feast Day of the Prophet Zepheniah, followed by the Luncheon at 11:00am in the Grand Room. Please RSVP to Yvonne Balouris at 724-316-2847, by Nov 29th, with your meal selection of fish or chicken. 

 

Youth Safety Certification Reminder for Adults

Youth Protection Policy Note: All adults involved with youth ministry contact will need to complete the youth safety and protection requirements of the “Policies for the Safety of Youth and Children” of the Archdiocese, Metropolis and Holy Trinity Church. Are you not yet certified? Do you have any questions? Please see our parish Youth Safety Coordinator Victoria Ambrose or email [email protected].

 

Visitation Ministry Needs Your Help

Currently, we have a few elderly parishioners who are in need of help in their homes. They need regular visits for companionship, light housekeeping, laundry care, and grocery shopping. It would require about 1-2 hours depending on the person's schedule and needs. If you can offer some help and time, please contact Amy Armanious, Visitation Ministry coordinator at [email protected] or you can contact the church office and ask Amy to call you. Thank you!

 

“Church School vs. Holy Trinity Community” Fall Food Drive: Through December 8

The Holy Trinity Church School is holding its annual Fall Food Drive and once again, it’s Church School vs. the Community! For Church School students, each Sunday bring your bags (with your nametag attached) to the Conference Room. For the Community, there is a collection bin located in the Gallery. Items will be donated to the Orthodox Christian ministry at the Neighborhood Resilience Project in the Hill District of Pittsburgh. A shopping list of requested items was included as an insert in the November edition of the Herald and extra copies can also be found at the church office window. Thank you!

 

OUTREACH – Early-Bird Opportunity to Volunteer your Family or Group for the 2025 Bag Lunch Ministry

Do you want to grab a date of your choice to provide bagged lunches in 2025 before they begin to fill up? This is your chance! We now have early access to the 2025 calendar for this well-received and fun project, with the goal of preparing and delivering 140 lunch bags to our less fortunate neighbors every Saturday of the year. This ministry includes various local parishes, and we’re hoping that with Holy Trinity Church parishioners’ participation, this goal will be achieved as early as possible. See Mike Kritiotis or email [email protected] with your preferred Saturday. If you’re new to this, detailed instructions and assistance are available, so give it a try! Thank you for your continued enthusiastic support for this worthy cause to help the poor and hungry in our region.

 

Welcome, Holy Trinity Guests!

We welcome all our guests to Holy Trinity Church today, whether as visitors from out of town, family members joining others here for worship today or even soon-to-be members here for the first time. No matter what the reason the Holy Spirit brought you here today, we welcome you with open arms and hearts filled with the love of Christ. Please help us welcome you by signing in at the hospitality table in the Narthex, where you will be presented with a yellow lapel Cross to help us know that you're here. And please be sure to stay and enjoy our after-Liturgy Hospitality Hour!

 

About Receiving Holy Communion in the Orthodox Church

We welcome all who have come to worship with us today. Whether you are an Orthodox Christian, an inquirer to the faith or a first-time guest in an Orthodox Church, we are pleased to have you with us and thankful for the opportunity to share and bear witness to this ancient and timeless Faith. In accordance with the holy canons and traditions of the Church, please note that Holy Communion and the other Holy Mysteries (Sacraments) are received only by those who are baptized and chrismated (confirmed) Orthodox Christians who have properly prepared through prayer, fasting and confession. All others are invited receive the antidoron (blessed bread) and a blessing from the priest at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy. Please also join our parish family for Hospitality Hour and allow us to meet and welcome you. Interested in joining or learning more about the Orthodox Christian Faith? Please see one of our priests or complete a visitor’s card today! How to receive: Please remember the following helpful hints aimed at helping to preserve the solemnity and safety of the Holy Mystery. Anyone wearing lipstick should remove it before receiving. Be sure to offer your baptismal name to priest before receiving. Please take great care that the red cloth held by the acolytes (you should not hold it) is fully under your chin, then use the centuries-old practice of receiving: please fully open your mouth, then gently close your lips to make sure the Holy Gifts are securely in your mouth and so that none of the holy and precious Body and Blood of Christ is accidentally spilled. Thank you for your cooperation, and may God have mercy on us all!  

 

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