St. Gregory of Nyssa Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2026-08-16
Bulletin Contents
Calendar
Gospel and Epistle Readings
Hymns of the Day
Wisdom of the Fathers
Welcoming our Catechumens!
Philoptochos News
Community Announcements
Tithes and Offerings
Prayer List
Saints and Feasts
Diakonia Newsletter

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St. Gregory of Nyssa Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • 619-593-0707
  • Street Address:

  • 1454 Jamacha Rd.

  • El Cajon, CA 92019-3752

Contact Information

Parish Priest Father Simeon B. Corona
Presbyter

[email protected] | 619-760-6373

Services Schedule

Saturday Vespers

5:00 PM

Sunday Liturgies

9:00AM Orthros

10:00AM Divine Liturgy

 

Parish Calendar:  http://saintgregoryofnyssa.org/parish-calendar

Follow Us on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/StGregoryGOC

Past Bulletins


Calendar

  • August 2026

    August 16 to August 23, 2026

    Sunday, August 16

    11th Matthew - PANAGAS' PICNIC!

    9:00AM Morning Prayers (Orthros)

    10:00AM Divine Liturgy

    12:00PM Panagia's Picnic at Santee Lakes, Picnic Area T (usual)

    Monday, August 17

    1:00PM Prayers at Carroll's

    1:45PM Prayers at Orangewood

    Wednesday, August 19

    6:00PM "Triple C": Catechism, Compline and Common Meal

    Thursday, August 20

    2:15PM Prayers at Hillcrest Manor

    7:00PM Fr. Simeon B Corona's Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83041243283

    Friday, August 21

    Summer Movie Night

    11:00AM RJ Donovan Prison

    6:30PM Summer Movie Nights at Church

    Saturday, August 22

    4:00PM Catechism Class: Live at Church or Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83041243283

    5:00PM Great Vespers

    6:00PM Confessions, Compline with Prayers of Preparation

    Sunday, August 23

    12th Matthew

    9:00AM Morning Prayers (Orthros)

    10:00AM Divine Liturgy



Gospel and Epistle Readings

Epistle Reading

11th Sunday of Matthew
The Reading is from St. Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians 9:2-12

Brethren, you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord. This is my defense to those who would examine me. Do we not have the right to our food and drink? Do we not have the right to be accompanied by a wife, as the other apostles and the brothers of the Lord and Cephas? Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working for a living? Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard without eating any of its fruit? Who tends a flock without getting some of the milk? Do I say this on human authority? Does not the law say the same? For it is written in the law of Moses, "You shall not muzzle an ox when it is treading out the grain." Is it for oxen that God is concerned? Does he not speak entirely for our sake? It was written for our sake, because the plowman should plow in hope and the thresher thresh in hope of a share in the crop. If we have sown spiritual good among you, is it too much if we reap your material benefits? If others share this rightful claim upon you, do not we still more? Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, but we endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ.

Gospel Reading

11th Sunday of Matthew
The Reading is from Matthew 18:23-35

The Lord said this parable: "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the reckoning, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents; and as he could not pay, his lord ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, 'Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.' And out of pity for him the lord of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. But that same servant, as he went out, came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and seizing him by the throat he said, 'Pay what you owe.' So his fellow servant fell down and besought him, 'Have patience with me, and I will pay you.' He refused and went and put him in prison till he should pay the debt. When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their lord all that had taken place. Then his lord summoned him and said to him, 'You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you besought me; and should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?' And in anger his lord delivered him to the torturers, till he should pay all his debt. So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart."



Hymns of the Day

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Second Tone

When You descended unto death, O Life Immortal, You rendered to Hades a mortal blow by the lightning of Your divinity, and when from the depths of darkness You also raised the dead, all the heavenly powers cried out: O Giver of Life, Christ our God, glory to You.

Apolytikion for Holy Napkin in the Second Tone

Thy pure image do we venerate, O good One, asking forgiveness of our sins, O Christ our God; for by thine own will thou didst ascend the Cross in thy body, to save thy creatures from the bondage of the enemy. Thou hast verily filled all with joy, since thou didst come, O our Saviour, to save the world.

Apolytikion for Afterfeast of the Dormition in the First Tone

In thy birth-giving, O Theotokos, thou didst keep and preserve virginity; and in thy falling-asleep thou hast not forsaken the world; for living thou wast translated, being the Mother of Life. Wherefore, by thine intercessions, deliver our souls from death.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Second Tone

Verily, the Theotokos, who is ever watchful in intercessions, who is never rejected, neither tomb nor death could control. But being the Mother of Life, he who dwelt in her ever-virgin womb did translate her to life.


Wisdom of the Fathers

Do we forgive our neighbors their trespasses? God also forgives us in His mercy. Do we refuse to forgive? God, too, will refuse to forgive us. As we treat our neighbors, so also does God treat us. The forgiveness, then, of your sins or unforgiveness, and hence also your salvation or destruction, depend on you yourself, man. For without forgiveness of sins there is no salvation.
St. Tikhon of Zadonsk
Unknown, 18th century

Wherefore then did He not do this, nor forgive the debt before the account? Desiring to teach him, from how many obligations He is delivering him, that in this way at least he might become more mild towards his fellow servant .... He gave more than he asked, remission and forgiveness of the entire debt.
St. John Chrysostom
Homily 61 on Matthew 18, 4th Century



Welcoming our Catechumens!

We joyfully welcome and introduce our current group of catechumens—men and women who are prayerfully preparing to enter the fullness of the Orthodox Church through the Holy Mysteries of Baptism, Chrismation, and the Eucharist.

As they journey toward illumination and full communion with Christ and His Church, each catechumen is seeking a sponsor (godparent): a faithful, practicing Orthodox Christian who will walk alongside them with prayer, encouragement, and the witness of a godly life.

If you feel called to support one of these dear souls on this sacred journey of faith, please speak to Fr. Simeon or Luke Mellos (Catechumen director) after the Divine Liturgy.   Your willingness to serve as a sponsor can make a profound and eternal difference in their lives and in our parish family.

Andres Becerra

Nick Castillo

Jason Chamberlin

Brenda Guzman

Adriana Maldonado

Sophie Maio

Renee Miller

Fabio Morales

Adelina Moran

Damien Moran

Alexei Pawlowski

Ceasar Reyna

Sean Rigdon

Noah Roberson

Ryan Thompson

Raul Ulloa

Sebastian Vaiasuso

Cesar Villanueva

Brandon Vriens

In our Prison Ministry: Skylor Sallee, Edward Scaroni, Levi Young

Newly Illumined! : Travis Lazaros Hopkins, Jason Andrew Lampley



Philoptochos News

Summer Break
Philoptochos will be taking a summer break from June through August. We look forward to returning in the fall refreshed and ready for another wonderful year of service and fellowship.

 

Coffee Hour, Connection, & Fellowship

No coffee hour today. Come enjoy fellowship at the PANAYIA PICNIC! (see flyer in Community Announcements)

Coffee Hour is a cherished part of our parish life, providing an opportunity to gather, connect, and enjoy fellowship with one another after the Divine Liturgy. We are grateful to everyone who helps make this ministry possible through their generosity and hospitality.

As our parish continues to grow, so do the costs and preparations involved in hosting Coffee Hour. To help keep this ministry sustainable and enjoyable for all, we encourage individuals, families, ministries, and groups to consider sponsoring together. Sharing the responsibility allows more members of our community to participate while ensuring this beautiful tradition continues for years to come.

To sponsor an upcoming Coffee Hour, please add your name to the sign-up poster in the fellowship hall. Questions? Contact Ana Nosal at (619) 750-4610.

 

Decorated Icons
Commemorate a Feast Day or honor a loved one by offering a decorated icon to be displayed at the altar for veneration. A suggested donation of $25-$65 may be made to St. Gregory's Ladies Philoptochos. To reserve a decorated icon, please contact Olga Stephens at (619) 980-9124.



Community Announcements



Tithes and Offerings

2026 Stewardship Progress  

Stewardship Pledged to Date: $161,013

2026 Annual Budget: $333,102

2026 Offerings: $175,775

2026 Remaining Need: ($157,327)

Please "let us attend”

let us support and let us be faithful in prayer and generosity. 

Support your Church!

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Urgent Church Needs!

We are asking for your prayerful consideration and support as we address two important needs in our church facility:

  • Water Leak Repair – Estimated cost: $3,000
  • AV System Updates – Estimated cost: $2,000

These improvements are essential to maintaining our building and enhancing worship services. Any contribution, big or small, will help us reach our goal. Thank you for your generosity and faithful support.

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Prayer List

Living: Richard Carpenter (Luke’s Dad), Hector Gonzales (Sam’s Dad), Fr. John Kariotakis, Marion Demos, Jorge Mendoza (Paola’s Father), Brittany and Baby, Ashley and her Mother Yung, Carrie, Julia and Mimi, Sebastian, Jana Crawford, Michael Roach, Torfinn H., Libby Diamond, Elaine Panos, Jesus Ramirez, Brittany, Dolas, Amanda, Niko, Shawn, Gregory, Alejandra, Julia, DeAnn, Jim, Mindy, Cynthia, Aurora Ruiz, Melinda, For all those suffering in times of war (Ukraine and the Middle East), Patti Diaz, Valerie, Raydeen and Family, Jim and Kathleen Mathew’s, Herman, Ward, Jacque Gamboa, Marianne, Tamara, Stamati, Elanora, Joanna Jacob,  Virginia, Derek, Hugito, Liam Michael Gardener (Ysadora’s News by Grandson), Valerie, Augustine, Janet, Ben,Trevonia Jones-Blacknall,Ben, Katherine Cripe, Jesus and Giselle (Amanuel’s Parents), Daniela, Josephine, Gregory, Roberto Rojas, Bryan Jones, Juan Bowles, Suzette, Maria Cacho, Costa, Michelle, Gail, Irene, Jeanne Leventis, Larry Roach, Olympia, Adrianne, Leilani, Frank, Pamela McVey (Gaye’s Sister), Kyriako, Dora, Elaine, Anastasia, Efstratia (Honey), Kristen, Lititia, Diana, TrixAnna, Ortans (Nellie’s Mom in Syria), Elias and Hanna Meamari (Issa’s Folks), Joanne Nichols, Michaila, Barbara Anderson (Fr. Michael’s Mom), Debby, Trevor, Ripley, Ljlijana, Deeann, Gino Volvo, Levi, Hannah, Dick, Kelly, Nicolas, Karen, Susan, Mandy, Melissa, Demetra, Gaye, Maria Olga, Kathern and the Rogers Family, John Findel, Lisa Kotitsa, Christine Fanos, Elizabeth and Jamie Terris, Magdalyn, Darin Williams, Cathy Jean Alexander, Our Monasteries and Monastics.

Asleep in the Lord: William “Sonny” Jackson and Andrew Shih (Ashley’s Dad and Stepdad), NJ Aristo, Barry, Charles Tessendore, Justin Flowers, Deacon Michael, Sannie Sue Wurts (Ana’s Grandma), Elsie Elizabeth Avalon, Ron Lauher, Angelos(Kleanthis) Synodinos, Margaret Jane Lampley, John Meneley, Eddy Aradando, Helen (Andrea’s Mom), Arthur Corona (Father’s Dad), Craig Johnston, Demetri Sideropoulos, Tom Crowell, Suzy Duarte, Georgia Swisher, Kosta Stephens, Nick Paschalydis and John Manos Senior, Maria, Keren Corona, Tony Christodolou, Mavis, Eleni, Anastasia and Photini, Michael Piliaris, Maria Angela Escobar (Sam’s Grandma), “Beba” Evangeline (Jim’s Godmother), Ralph Scott Grasser (Magdalene’s Brother), Baker Cleveland, Vernon Rogers, Despina Sidiropoulos, Nikki Delgado, Tom Ward, Nick Kromydas, Michael (Fr. Josef’s Godfather), Nancy Fox, Angelo Laliotitis, Hallie Friday, Don (Iakovos) Rylander, Charlie Canby, Joan Kuhn, Janis Manos, Michael Angeles, Iris Daglas, Stavros, Sophia, Andonis, Stevroula Metaxas, Doug Burleigh,  Fr. Panayiotis Leventis and Presvytera Despina Leventis,  Leul and Maria, Celia, Tula (Demetra) Nicholas, Shirley Nash, Michael Counce, Maria Damala, Don and Sally Farr, Thomas Crowell, Eleftheria, Deiter (Fr. Josef’s Father), Susan (sister of Lisa Kotitsa), William (Bill) Diamond, Mary Mckinn, Maria, Merissa, Madeline (Olga’s Sister), Michelle (Olga’s Cousin), Partheni, Sue Lubinski, Daniel Delgado, Teneus Partheni Baptiste, Steve, Mario, Fr. George Larin, Randolph (Ysadora’s Uncle), Fr. Emanuel Lillios, James Pappas (Dr. Socrates Cousin), Khouria Dina and Eliana Maria Bahou, Mary Koulaxes, Christopher Pekos, Peter Karalambas, John Pertides, Calomira, James (Demetrius) Mastorakis, Evangelina, Warren Cormier, Margie (Mary) Brock, Soteria (Bunny) Angeles, (Haralambos) Polis, Athina, Mark Mellis, Heidi, Presvytera Kay Eftathiu, Alexandra, Nicole, Kenn, Archdeacon Joe, Nicholay, Maria Elena, John Angeles, Emanuel, Irene Cantos, Joanne, James and Marika Deemas, Georgia (Sophie) Deemas, George Deemas, Antone (Tony) Broodrookas, Barbara and Patrick Easley, Arthur and Christine Gonos, John, Angelo, Tom Hyatt, Morgan, Bonnie, Salvador, William, Sarah Elizabeth, Penny (Laurie Paschalydis’ Sister), Efstratia Janis.

Please let Father know if you have any names that you would like to add to or that are ready to  remove from the list.

 



Saints and Feasts

August 16

11th Sunday of Matthew

August 16

Translation of the Image of Our Lord and God and Savior, Jesus Christ

When the fame of our Lord Jesus Christ came to Abgar, the ruler of Edessa, who was suffering from leprosy, Abgar sent a messenger named Ananias, through him asking the Savior to heal him of his disease, while bidding Ananias bring back a depiction of Him. When Ananias came to Jerusalem, and was unable to capture the likeness of our Lord, He, the Knower of hearts, asked for water, and having washed His immaculate and divine face, wiped it dry with a certain cloth, which He gave to Ananias to take to Abgar; the form of the Lord's face had been wondrously printed upon the cloth. As soon as Abgar received the cloth, which is called the Holy Napkin (Mandylion), he reverenced it with joy, and was healed of his leprosy; only his forehead remained afflicted. After the Lord's Death, Resurrection, and Ascension, the Apostle Thaddaeus (see Aug. 21) came to Edessa, and when he had baptized Abgar and all his men, Abgar's remaining leprosy also was healed. Abgar had the holy image of our Savior fixed to a board and placed at the city gate, commanding that all who entered the city reverence it as they passed through. Abgar's grandson, however, returned to the worship of the idols, and the Bishop of Edessa learned of his intention to replace the Holy Napkin with an idol. Since the place where it stood above the city gate was a rounded hollow, he set a burning lamp before the Holy Napkin, put a tile facing it, then bricked up the place and smoothed it over, so that the holy icon made without hands was no longer to be seen, and the ungodly ruler gave no further thought to it.

With the passage of time, the hidden icon was forgotten, until the year 615, when Chosroes II, King of Persia, was assaulting the cities of Asia, and besieged Edessa. The Bishop of Edessa, Eulabius, instructed by a divine revelation, opened the sealed chamber above the city gate and found the Holy Napkin complete and incorrupt, the lamp burning, and the tile bearing upon itself an identical copy of the image that was on the Holy Napkin. The Persians had built a huge fire outside the city wall; when the Bishop approached with the Holy Napkin, a violent wind fell upon the fire, turning it back upon the Persians, who fled in defeat. The Holy Napkin remained in Edessa, even after the Arabs conquered it, until the year 944, when it was brought with honor and triumph to Constantinople in the reign of Romanus I, when Theophylact was Ecumenical Patriarch. The Holy Napkin was enshrined in the Church of the most holy Theotokos called the Pharos. This is the translation that is celebrated today.

August 16

Diomedes the Physician & Martyr of Tarsus

The holy Martyr Diomedes was from Tarsus in Cilicia, a physician who treated bodies with his healing art and souls with his piety. In the days of the Emperor Diocletian, about the year 288, Diomedes left Tarsus and came to Nicaea, where he benefited many both as a physician and as a preacher of the Faith. He was accused to Diocletian, who sent men to fetch him. When they arrived, although finding that he had already given up his soul to the Lord, they cut off his head to take it to the Emperor, and because of their inhumanity were stricken with blindness. When Diocletian saw the Saint's head, he commanded them to take it back and put it on the body in its place; when they had done so, they received their sight again. Saint Diomedes is one of the Holy Unmercenaries.

August 16

Timothy of Euripus, founder of the Monastery of Pentele

August 16

Holy Monk Penteles



Diakonia Newsletter

Diakonia Newsletter

Read the latest Diakonia Newsletter for this Sunday

https://bulletinbuilder.org/diakonia-newsletter/2026-08-16?source=bulletin_web

August 16, 2026

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