As one enters the Administration Building at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, one looks up the stairs to the left and sees the following words inscribed on a marble wall:

Εἴ τις θέλει ὀπίσω μου ἐλθεῖν, ἀπαρνησάσθω ἑαυτὸν καὶ ἀράτω τὸν σταυρὸν αὐτοῦ, καὶ ἀκολουθείτω μοι.

If anyone wishes to come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.

I remember when I first set foot on those hallowed grounds back in September of 1972 and how impressed I was by that inscription. A quote from the Bible, but one that spoke directly to me. Obviously, that was the intent because this passage speaks to those who would dedicate their lives to the priesthood. Obviously, those words bear a special meaning for seminarians. That is why they mark the entrance to the seminary’s administration building. But these words ought to be quite meaningful to all of us.

This quote applies to us as Christians and how we live as disciples. It challenges us to assess our personal commitment. Jesus was not speaking to seminarians. He was speaking to disciples. The Disciples were the followers of Christ. He was their rabbi. They were his students. We are all among those who wish to follow Christ, are we not? If so, then these words are for us. We too are called to deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow.

I find it so incredibly interesting that the Lord Christ Jesus connects self-denial with our taking up our cross. Taking up one’s cross never had that meaning until after the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It connotes sacrifice. It is clear that his message is that we are called to imitate Him, to follow Him where he led us. He denied Himself and willing sacrificed Himself on the cross. No less is expected of his disciples.

This Sunday, we welcome Megan Swink with a blessing and prayers, along with the new-born baby John Thomas. Congratulatons Tony and Megan! May God grant him many years.

As we approach the final quarter of 2026, we might ask if we have completed our pledge for the year. In a few months we will be asking for you to fill out your pledge for 2027. It seems reasonable that our current pledge is up to date. Pledge forms are available in the anteroom for your convenience. Thank you for your ongoing support of St. Demetrios parish.

... Kaiden Luckey, who will be baptised and chrismated Saturday, September 19. He will take the name Konstantine and his godfather is A.J. Rosario. May God grant him many years!

... Kayla Nicole and Colby Andrew King whose marriage was blessed in the Church on Saturday, September 19th. And whose baby was presented to the Church for the 40-day blessing.

We had a lovely and productive first meeting of the liturgical year this past Tuesday, September 15. The following events are coming up in October: 

October 3 Father Sav Mission Walk, 9:00 am, First Landing State Park, Virginia Beach.

October 13 6:15 pm Philoptochos meeting - all members are encouraged to attend; light refreshments are provided.

October 24 5:00 pm community art event at Frothy Moon, Jamestown Road. Philoptochos will be the featured charity.

October 25 6:00 pm St Demetrios feast day Vespers service; reception will be hosted by Philoptochos.

October 26 Feastday of our parish, Orthros at 8:45 a.m. & Divine Liturgy at 9:30 a.m.

Questions about any of these upcoming events can be directed to members of the Philoptochos board:

Suri Khani

Omayma Aractingi

Marianthi Johns

Barbara Short

Lisa Jones

Elaine Jansen

Elizabeth Mercer

Presbytera Connie

Ladies, please do try to join us for these events. Our fellowship is enhanced by members’ participation. Please, especially try to come to our next meeting in October. We’ll have much to share and talk about, and good things coming in November as well.

In 1776, enslaved and free Black worshippers gathered secretly in brush harbors and organized Historic First Baptist Church on October 9. We are invited to join this church for thier 250th anniversary during a four-day observance to begin on October 8th and continue through October 11th. The events include:

• Opening church service at the Scotland Street Church
• Unveiling and dedication of the African Baptist Meeting House and Burial Ground
• Let Freedom Ring black tie gala at the Williamsburg Lodge, Virginia Ballroom
• Sunday worship service at the Scotland Street Church

We are invitated as guests to any or all of the above. If you are interested, please contact Fr. Milton so he can RSVP for our community.

Coffee hour is a wonderful opportunity for parishioners to meet and greet one another after Sunday Divine Liturgy. We have a nice group of volunteers who rotate hosting duties each week, but could use a couple more teams.  We would welcome anyone who would like to be part of this community outreach, any and all who would like to join, add to the number of teams, and share hospitality with our parish and visitors. 
For more information or to sign up, please contact Zena Parker, 570-606-9208, coordinator.

Adult catechism classes began this Thursday, September 17th.  If you missed the start date, it is not too late. Just sign up and start this coming Thursday. All those who are seeking to be Chrismated or Baptized in the Orthodox Faith should plan to attend, unless other catechism arrangements have beem made with Father Milton. The classes are also open to repeat attenders and anyone who would like a review of basic Orthodox teachings. Classes meet from 7 - 8 p.m. weekly on Thursdays and will be taught by Deacon Timothy.

A sign up sheet is available in the anteroom. 

As a growing parish and one that is welcoming to inquirers and new members, we have an ongoing need for people who are willing to step up and serve as sponsors (godparents) for both children and adults. If you would consider such an honor, then please contact Fr. Milton to discuss it. Thank you.

Updates on Orthodox Church news items can be found on our Facebook page. We thank Presbytera for monitoring and administering the page.

Visit us on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@St.DemetriosOrthodoxChurch -- Please subscribe to our channel

Also, check out our St. Demetrios website.

Father Gianulis wants to be with you when you are hospitalized, even if you believe it is minor. However, he is not a mind reader. If you are sick and hospitalized, or have any other pastoral or sacramental need, do not hesitate to call him. And of course, he would appreciate a call if you know of someone who has passed. He can always be reached by calling the church phone number, 220-0994, or in emergencies, his mobile (757) 508-5367. 

George Canavos

Beverly Daikos

Peter Daikos

Karen Durniak

Demi Emmanouil

Savvas Kaminarides

Sonny Halioris

Jim Kokolis 

Nancy Marakos

Chris Marker

Yanni Palantzas - Riverside Medical Center

John and Connie Pavlides