Sunday Bulletin - St. George Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2024-11-24
Bulletin Contents

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Sunday Bulletin - St. George Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (651) 222-6220
  • Street Address:

  • 1111 Summit Ave

  • St. Paul, MN 55105


Contact Information










Services Schedule

Welcome!

We hope that you will make this your spiritual home. Connect with us on our website, Facebook page, YouTube, or sign-up for our email list at https://tinyurl.com/yc3tp29w.

Worship Sunday Orthros 8:15 am & Divine Liturgy 9:30 am

Confession (by appointment - call or email [email protected])

Weekday Services (www.stgeorgegoc.org/calendar)

Streaming

youtube.com/c/stgeorgestpaul

Fellowship Hour Sunday following Divine Liturgy

Office Hours Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Our Mission St. George Greek Orthodox Church is a Christ-centered community that: inspires faith and worship, cultivates spiritual growth and fellowship, and encourages benevolence and outreach.

Our Vision Ascending together to the fullness of Life.

Give Online at https://onrealm.org/StGeorgeStPaul/give/online


Past Bulletins


Calendar

  • Parish Calendar

    November 15 to December 1, 2024

    Friday, November 15

    +Nativity Fast

    Sunday, November 24

    13th Sunday of Luke

    8:15AM Orthros

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy

    10:45AM Church School

    11:30AM Philoptochos Bake Sale

    Monday, November 25

    +St. Katherine

    6:00PM Capital Project Meeting

    Tuesday, November 26

    7:00PM Catechism #12 - Orthodoxy in America, Jurisdictions, Missions

    Thursday, November 28

    Office Closed

    Thanksgiving Day

    Saturday, November 30

    +St. Andrew the Apostle

    Sunday, December 1

    +Prophet Aaron

    14th Sunday of Luke

    8:15AM Orthros

    9:30AM Divine Liturgy

    10:45AM No Church School Classes Today

  • Ministries Calendar

    December 4 to December 7, 2024

    Wednesday, December 4

    6:00PM Greek School

    Saturday, December 7

    5:00PM Youth and Family Makers Mall

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Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 1st Tone

To the Word, coeternal with the Father and the Spirit, born of the Virgin for our salvation, let us, the faithful, give praise and worship. For he willed to be lifted up on the cross in the flesh, to endure death and raise the dead by his glorious resurrection.

Apolytikion for Afterfeast of the Entry of the Theotokos in the 4th Tone

Today is the prelude of God's generosity, the herald of the coming of salvation for all mankind. In the temple of God the Virgin is revealed to all, her presence foretelling the coming of Christ. With all our hearts let us, therefore, cry out to her: Rejoice, O Fulfillment of the Creator's plan.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 4th Tone

Behold the temple of the Savior, his precious bridal chamber. Behold the virginal and sacred vessel of God's glory. Today she enters into the house of the Lord, bearing within her the grace of the Holy Spirit. For this, the angels exclaim: She is indeed the heavenly tabernacle.
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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Epistle Reading

22nd Sunday after Pentecost
The Reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Galatians 6:11-18

Brethren, see with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that would compel you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who receive circumcision do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may glory in your flesh. But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule, upon the Israel of God. Henceforth let no man trouble me; for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.


Gospel Reading

13th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 18:18-27

At that time, a ruler came to Jesus and asked him, "Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" And Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.' " And he said, "All these I have observed from my youth." And when Jesus heard it, he said to him, "One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute it to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." But when he heard this he became sad, for he was very rich. Jesus looking at him said, "How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God! For 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." Those who heard it said, "Then who can be saved?" But he said, "What is impossible with men is possible with God."


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Announcements

Greeters

Bill Clemons & Yodahe Gamada

Prosfora

Andrea Faches

Fellowship Hour

Thank you to Philoptochos for hosting today's fellowship.

Host a Fellowship Hour

Please host an upcoming coffee hour! Individuals, families, or even groups can sign up to host or co-host. Coffee Hour hosts are needed for Dec. 1, and 22. Remember that coffee is now provided, courtesy of Thrivent Financial, so your commitment can be as simple as picking up some cookies!

If you haven’t hosted yet in 2024, please check your calendar now and help us to fill the remaining slots for 2024. Thanks to all who have already hosted this year! Use this URL to sign up.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4CA5AD2BABFF2-46964197-fellowship#/

Advent Pantry Drive

Starting November 15th, the beginning of Advent, we will be collecting food for the Focus Second Helping Pantry. This season we are focusing on Pasta and Sauce, Peanut Butter and Jelly, and Meals in a can. Let's remember those less fortunate when we are at the grocery store this Advent.

Philoptochos Fall Bake Sale

Prepare for the Thanksgiving & Christmas Festivities! The Annual Greek Bake Sale continues today after Liturgy! Come by and explore our stunning selection of seasonal treats, hostess gifts, and delightful stocking stuffers. Delight your loved ones with our artisanal Greek baked goods lovingly prepared from cherished family recipes. Additionally, take a look at our ready-to-go gift packages, showcasing locally roasted, organic, and fair trade coffee gift sets, and hand made small-batch fudge and caramel sets. These wonderful offerings not only enhance your gifting experience but also support Philoptochos' charitable efforts!

Sunday Best Coffee Philoptochos Fundraiser

Pick-up your pre-ordered Gift Sets today! Also, look for more Gift Sets and coffee for sale at our Bake Sale on Sat & Sun, Nov 23 & 24.

Then, mark your calendars for our next "Coffee Exchange Sunday” just in time for the holidays: December 15th. Orders appreciated by the previous Sunday. Visit our yellow cart in our Fellowship Hall and place a pre-order. Or email an order to: [email protected]. Thank you to all our coffee loving parishioners for supporting our Philoptochos Charities, one heavenly cup of coffee at a time!

Loaves and Fishes Meal

Our last meal of 2024 is upon us! Come out to help serve our December meal on Monday, December 2nd. It takes place at St. Matthew's Church in West St. Paul from 4:30- 7:00ish. Celebrate advent through service as almsgiving! Sign up to reserve your spot: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D49ADA623A0FCC70-53405198-december

Greek School

Registration is now OPEN for Greek School's fall session. Greek School is for youth in grades preK-12. We offer a hands-on learning environment for students to strengthen their knowledge and connection to the Greek language and culture.

Please register at this link: https://z.umn.edu/GreekSchool24_25 or use the following QR code:

 

Adult Greek School

Registration for virtual, adult Greek School classes is now open. Register here. Let Joanna know if you have any questions: [email protected]

Western Region Family Basketball Tournament Jan. 31 - Feb 2.

Save the Date! Practices begin Dec. 15th

It's that time again to get your sneakers on! This year the tournament will be hosted by St. Demetrios in Libertyville, IL.

Player registration and hotel reservations will open Dec. 2nd on the Western Region Family Basketball Tournament Website. https://www.greekbball.com/

***Note: Practices will begin at a New Location! due to construction at our previous facility.
Highland Park Elementary School (approx.3 miles from church)
1700 Saunders Ave, St. Paul, 55116

Practice schedule - Sunday 12-2:30pm
Dec 15
Dec 29
Jan 5
Jan 12
Jan 19
Jan 26

Scholarships will once more be offered. For inquiries, please contact Fr. Perry, and for any questions, reach out to Angie Kontenakos at [email protected]

See you at the gym! Go St. George!

Fall Parish Assembly & Parish Council Elections

Join us on Sunday, December 08, following Liturgy for our fall Parish Assembly and Parish Council Elections. This assembly reviews and passes our 2025 budget and elects auditors for our 2024 financial audit. We will also discuss and request approval of an architect for our capital project initiative. Please contact Angie if you have any questions.

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84290595046?pwd=4rGTfXamOeOqs3iI2xrbpJ93VV0nbR.1
ID: 842 9059 5046 Passcode: 994928

Saint Mary's Summer Camp 2025 Staff Applications

The 2025 Summer Camp Staff Applications are being accepted November 1- December 31

Summer Camp 2025 will be held: June 28- July 4, 2025 at Camp Wapogasset

Our staff is carefully selected annually by an application process. We welcome Orthodox Christians active in their parish and willing to teach and reflect the doctrinal and moral precepts of the teachings of Christ and the Orthodox Church. If you are unclear about this statement, please speak with your Priest or Spiritual Father (Father Confessor) before proceeding. Applicants must be 17 years old at the time of camp and have graduated high school or received their G.E.D. Please review the Staff Selection Criteria before applying. Applications must be completed 100% by December 31st. To apply to be on Staff, visit https://app.campdoc.com/!/dn/login?r=stmaryscamp Questions?  Please contact Doria or Scott at [email protected].

Icon Art Studios, Inc. 2025 Winter Icon Class Dates

Session 1- The Holy Face here at St. George GOC & Zoom: Tuesdays, January 7, 14, 21, & 28 from 6-9 pm

Session 2- Icon of a saint of the student's choice (full figure) here at St. George GOC & Zoom: Tuesdays, February 4, 11, 18, & 25 from 6-9 pm

Please contact Deb at [email protected]/612-889-5868 or Steve Arsenault at [email protected]/ 612-206-7369. Cost for tuition and supplies approx. $298. Cost of tuition only $155

Silent Auction

Remember to check out the Silent Auction in the hall. Proceeds support our Missions and Benevolence ministry. New items are added regularly. If you would like to donate items that are new with tags or something else valuable, such as theater/sports tickets, please contact Angela Mortari at [email protected] or text 651-280-7123.

2024 Stewardship Program

Goal

$199,935 of $275,000 (through October)

At the Fall Parish Assembly, we approved the 2024 Stewardship Goal of $275,000. We have hit this mark in the last couple of years, and we truly believe that with everyone’s support, we will hit that mark again. Now is the time to submit your 2024 pledge. Pledge Cards are at the candle stand, or click the link below to complete the form online. Thank you for your support of the work of the Church.

2024 Theme

"Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant,” from the Parable of the Talents. We are all blessed with certain gifts. This parable stresses the importance of developing our gifts, multiplying them, and offering them back in service to God. 

Make a Stewardship Donation Online

https://onrealm.org/StGeorgeStPaul/give/online 

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Wisdom of the Fathers

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

Love of money is the worship of idols, a daughter of unbelief, an excuse for infirmities, a foreboder of old age, a harbinger of drought, a herald of hunger.
St. John Climacus
The Ladder of Divine Ascent, Step 16:2,7 and Step 17:1, 6th Century

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Welcome Visitors!

Thank you for joining us in worship. Whether you are an Orthodox Christian or this is your first visit to an Orthodox Church, we are pleased to have you with us! Although Holy Communion is offered only to baptized and chrismated Orthodox Christians, all are invited to receive the Antidoron (blessed bread) at the end of the service. The Antidoron and fellowship hour are reminiscent of the Agape Feast that followed worship in the early Church.

One does not have to be of Greek descent nor speak Greek to be an Orthodox Christian and member of our parish. All people of any background are welcome to join the Orthodox Church. For those interested in learning more about the Christian Faith or becoming a member of our church, please see Fr. Perry after services or contact him at [email protected] or (651) 222-6220.

We hope you will join us in our hall upstairs this morning after services for fellowship and refreshments!

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Prosfora (Offering Bread)

Thank you to those who make the prosfora/offering bread for Liturgy. If you would like to sign up to bake and make an offering of bread to the church, please get in touch with Krisandrea at [email protected].

Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.” John 6:27

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Content for the Bulletin

All content for the bulletin (flyers, blurbs, calendar events, etc.) is due Wednesday each week. Content submitted after Wednesday will be included in the bulletin for the following week.

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Reimbursements

To our ministry leaders and volunteers, please save receipts when making purchases for church activities. A reminder that reimbursement forms are located on the tower outside of the admin and treasurer’s office. Please make sure to submit the form with a copy of your receipt (you keep the original receipt). Finally, please make sure to submit for reimbursement contemporaneous with the expense(s). Although we do not have a set cutoff date for reimbursements, please do your best to have all prior year reimbursements submitted before the end of January of the following year. Please contact Lani if you have any questions at [email protected].

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Charitable Donations to Philoptochos, Missions & Benevolence, Church School, Youth, Priest Discretionary Fund, Greek School, & other St. George Ministries

Thank you to all who continue to support our parish ministries! For those who would like a receipt of their donations to a particular church ministry for tax purposes, please make all deductible contributions directly to the church, noting a designation of the gift in the memo line. For example, you might put in the memo line “2024 Philoptochos Stewardship/membership,” “donation to Missions and Benevolence,” "priest discretionary fund," etc. Resources will be earmarked and distributed to the ministry you note, and your donations will be included in your end-of-year statement. Thank you again for your commitment to the work of the church!

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St. George Roselawn Cemetery Plots 2024 Pricing

Advance planning can give you and your family peace of mind and is also cost-effective. Annual cost increases are typically at least 2% and have risen over 26% since 2013. The St. George Roselawn Cemetery Program continues to offer lots at Roselawn in Roseville for a 15% discount off list prices. All revenue from lots supports our church and its ministries. These lots are in the St. George section, adjacent to the “Greek” section, and easily identifiable by the monument/altar table. Contact the church office for more information.

2024 Discounted Prices for Parishioners: 
$7,182 = Monument Lot (2 Graves) 
$5,095 = Flat Lot (2 Graves) 
$2,762 = Flat Lot (1 Grave, Limited Availability)

(These prices reflect a 15% off Roselawn Retail Price)

This continues to be one of those great opportunities where you can support the church, save some money, and create a legacy for your family all at the same time.

Lots for both monument and marker (flat) stones are still available.

Please follow Roselawn regulations for the care and beautification of your loved one’s lots.

The table-like monument marking our area from Victoria street is visible on google maps and google satellite view at the links below and can be found on the church website.

http://tinyurl.com/4cte47f3
http://tinyurl.com/5n6abxwa

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Let's Connect!

St. George has moved to a new social media platform designed specifically for parish life. Here, we communicate more dynamically regarding specific ministries, events, and stewardship. For those who haven't, please use the QR code here to sign up! If you have any questions or have issues, please contact Dylan at [email protected].

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Text Message Reminders - Sign Up for Youth & Family Events!

We have some AWESOME Youth & Family events, and you don't want to miss out. Join our text message system Remind to stay up to date with all of our communications. Join by visiting https://www.remind.com/join/stgyandf

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Parish Email List Sign-Up 

Sign up for our email list to see what’s happening at St. George!

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Please Note

St. George GOC broadcasts its worship services live on the internet. Your presence in the church is subject to audio and video recording.

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Saints and Feasts

November 24

Our Holy Father Clement, Pope of Rome

Saint Clement was instructed in the Faith of Christ by the Apostle Peter. He became Bishop of Rome in the year 91, the third after the death of the Apostles. He died as a martyr about the year 100 during the reign of Trajan.


November 24

Peter, Archbishop of Alexandria

Saint Peter illustriously occupied the throne of Alexandria for twelve years, and, as Eusebius says, "was a divine example of a bishop on account of the excellence of his life and his study of the sacred Scriptures" (see Eusebius, Eccl. Hist., Book VII, 3 2; Book VIII 11, 13; and Book IX, 6). He excommunicated Arius for his sympathy with the Meletian schism. When Arius learned that Saint Peter had been imprisoned, he sent many priests and deacons to him, asking that he receive him back into the communion of the Church before his martyrdom. When the ambassadors of Arius, who had not, like Saint Peter, perceived the ruin he would engender, were astonished at the vehemence with which Saint Peter refused to receive Arius again, he revealed to them a dread vision he had seen, in which the Master Christ had appeared to him as a child wearing a garment torn from head to foot. When Saint Peter asked the Lord who rent His garment, the Lord answered that it was Arius, and that he must not be received back into communion. The holy hieromartyr Peter was beheaded during the reign of Maximinus in the year 312; he is called the "Seal of the Martyrs," because he was the last Bishop of Alexandria to suffer martyrdom under the pagan Emperors. His successors to the throne of Alexandria, Saints Alexander and Athanasius the Great, brought to final victory the battle against Arius' heresy which Saint Peter had begun.


November 25

Katherine the Great Martyr of Alexandria

Saint Catherine, who was from Alexandria, was the daughter of Constas (or Cestus). She was an exceedingly beautiful maiden, most chaste, and illustrious in wealth, lineage, and learning. By her steadfast understanding, she utterly vanquished the passionate and unbridled soul of Maximinus, the tyrant of Alexandria; and by her eloquence, she stopped the mouths of the so-called philosophers who had been gathered to dispute with her. She was crowned with the crown of martyrdom in the year 305. Her holy relics were taken by Angels to the holy mountain of Sinai, where they were discovered many years later; the famous monastery of Saint Catherine was originally dedicated to the Holy Transfiguration of the Lord and the Burning Bush, but later was dedicated to Saint Catherine. According to the ancient usage, Saints Catherine and Mercurius were celebrated on the 24th of this month, whereas the holy Hieromartyrs Clement of Rome and Peter of Alexandria were celebrated on the 25th. The dates of the feasts of these Saints were interchanged at the request of the Church and Monastery of Mount Sinai, so that the festival of Saint Catherine, their patron, might be celebrated more festively together with the Apodosis of the Feast of the Entry of the Theotokos. The Slavic Churches, however, commemorate these Saints on their original dates.


November 30

Andrew the First- Called Apostle

This Saint was from Bethsaida of Galilee; he was the son of Jonas and the brother of Peter, the chief of the Apostles. He had first been a disciple of John the Baptist; afterwards, on hearing the Baptist's witness concerning Jesus, when he pointed Him out with his finger and said, "Behold the Lamb of God, Which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1.29,36), he straightway followed Christ, and became His first disciple; wherefore he is called the First-called of the Apostles. After the Ascension of the Saviour, he preached in various lands; and having suffered many things for His Name's sake, he died in Patras of Achaia, where he was crucified on a cross in the shape of an "X," the first letter of "Christ" in Greek; this cross is also the symbol of Saint Andrew.


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Bulletin Inserts

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