Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
Publish Date: 2024-04-28
Bulletin Contents

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Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church

General Information

  • Phone:
  • (201) 652-4774 for emergencies: 201 870 2676
  • Fax:
  • (201) 652-0789
  • Street Address:

  • 467 Grandview Avenue

  • Wyckoff, NJ 07481


Contact Information






Services Schedule

 

Sundays in the fall, winter & spring:

Matins: 9 a.m. &  Divine Liturgy 10a.m. except during the summer

 

Summer hours for Sundays in July and August:

Matins: 8:30a.m.  & Divine Liturgy 9:30a.m.


Past Bulletins


Weekly Sunday Bulletin

The Lord’s Entry Into Jerusalem

On the Sunday before the Feast of Great and Holy Pascha and at the beginning of Holy Week, the Orthodox Church celebrates one of its most joyous feasts of the year. Palm Sunday is the commemoration of the Entrance of our Lord into Jerusalem following His glorious miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead. Having anticipated His arrival and having heard of the miracle, the people went out to meet the Lord and welcomed Him with displays of honor and shouts of praise. On this day, we receive and worship Christ in this same manner, acknowledging Him as our King and Lord. For more information visit https://www.goarch.org/palmsunday-learn?

 Come Participate in our Saint Nicholas Ministries!

 

Orthros:  9:00AM

Epistle Philippians  4:4-9  (pg. 1341)

Divine Liturgy: 10:00AM

Gospel John 12:1-18 (pg. 1250)

 

Saint Nicholas Church is on social media! Like us on Facebook @stnicholasnj and follow us on Instagra   m @stnicholasgoc.
To share your ministry’s events and activities email [email protected]

 

Religious Education (Sunday School): This is the primary place where our children learn the richness of our faith in Jesus Christ and the traditions of the Orthodox Church. Classes are offered to children from Pre-school-12th grade. To register your child, to volunteer as a teacher, or for additional information contact Demi Thomas at [email protected]

 

HOPE & JOY: Hellenic Orthodox Primary Education (ages 4 to 7) and Junior Orthodox Youth (ages 8 to 11) are ministries that offer children and their parents an opportunity for instruction and fellowship. The programs are stepping stones to GOYA that foster friendships and participation within our community. Contact Fr. Bill at [email protected] Ministry Leaders needed.

 

Mom’s Coffee Klatch: Come join other young moms once a month on a weekday morning for breakfast and fellowship. Contact Dr. Eva Krias at [email protected] for more information.

 

Acolytes: Come serve the Lord in His Holy Altar and help lead worship services. Join our team ! And assist Fr. Bill in the liturgical services. Serving as an acolyte allows you to learn more about Orthodoxy as well as build a closer relationship to God. All baptized males ages 8 and over are welcome to serve! To learn more contact Fr. Bill at [email protected]

 

Greek Dance: The Greek Dance Program’s mission is to promote Christian fellowship through teamwork and unity. Dance groups are for children (5-11) and GOYAns (12-18). Practices are on Tuesday evenings. For more information, contact Sophia Papson [email protected] or  Maria Lleonart [email protected] 

 

GOYA: Greek Orthodox Youth of America is a teen ministry open to those in grades 7-12 and ages 12-18. We participate in various volunteer works, dances, and sporting events. The ministry is available to any Orthodox Christian young person who is willing to participate in fellowship and service, give back, and have fun!! For more information, please contact Maria Gougousis at [email protected] or Kallie Martello at [email protected]  

 

Young Emerging Adults: We are growing our Young Emerging Adult (YEA) ministry for those 18+  years old. If you are interested in joining, please contact Fr. Bill at [email protected] or Irene Ayvas at [email protected]

 

Philoptochos: The Ladies Philoptochos Society is the philanthropic arm of the Church dedicated to serving those in need. We coordinate efforts for the entire St. Nicholas community to raise money to donate to those less fortunate. For more information contact our president, Caroline Kalliotzis at [email protected]

 

Parish Council: The Parish Council is a group of dedicated stewards elected by the Church body to assist the pastor and the parish. The Parish Council meets regularly to manage the needs of our Church. If you have any questions or if you are interested in running for the Parish Council, contact Manny Toskos at  [email protected]   or Fr. Bill at 201-652-4774 ext12.

 

The Ladies Prayer Group: The Ladies Prayer Group meets twice a month for an informal time of prayer and sharing of faith.
This group also has an “Urgent Prayer Chain.” Anyone with the desire to pray for those in immediate crisis need only add their email address to our list. For more information contact Irene Ayvas at 201-803-2307 or [email protected]

 

Sessions on Scripture (SOS): This instruction/discussion group meets once a week on Wednesday from 2- 3pm in the conference room. We read, study, and learn Scripture from the Orthodox Study Bible with Fr. Bill. Contact Caroline Kalliotzis at [email protected]  for more information. All are welcome!

 

Saint Nicholas Community Outreach: For more informationcontact Peggy Goulet at [email protected]

 

Women’s Reading Fellowship (WRF): The WRF reads and discusses various spiritual texts. This weekly fellowship is a loving environment, where women learn the role that God is playing in their lives. For more info, contact Renia Tsigaras at [email protected] 

 

 

 

Daughters of Penelope: The Daughters of Penelope is a sisterhood that is part of AHEPA. We are currently 94 Sisters strong!  Our various fundraisers help support numerous philanthropic efforts. We have monthly meetings, an active book club, and a knitting/crocheting club. To join this group, contact Ann Issackedes Arluna at [email protected]

AHEPA: AHEPA brotherhood brings the ideals of ancient Greece, which include philanthropy, education, civic responsibility, family and individual excellence to the community. Our local chapter, Ramapo Chapter 453, supports our Saint Nicholas community, as well as, many charities. To join this group, contact Evans Agrapidis at [email protected]

Greek School: Modern Greek Language classes meet every Friday afternoon from 4:15-6:30pm for children K-6th grade and adults at varied levels. The program gives students the benefit of learning Greek language, culture, and history while building lifelong friendships. Registration for the 2024-2025 school year begins in June. To enroll a child, please contact Angela Bachardy at 917-751-9712, [email protected] or Maria (Moutafis) Giamos at 917-662-9982 or  [email protected]

 

Greek Language Classes for Adults: This ministry, sponsored by AHEPA, is in its 12th year of classes. In October we will offer both beginner and intermediate classes. The program is open to anyone in the community. For more information, please contact George Gasparis  at [email protected]

 

Men’s Reading Fellowship (MRF): The MRF provides men with a weekly opportunity to gather informally in fellowship and share their Christian thoughts and perspectives on religious literature. Light food and refreshments are served. For more information contact Dino Aletras at [email protected]    

Ministry Through Hymns! Participate fully in worship, our lead cantor, Mr. Manolis Anastasiou, [email protected], offers free Byzantine music lessons every Sunday directly after worship concludes.  Lessons in Greek and English. No experience needed. All ages welcome. Please meet at cantors’ stand immediately after worship concludes!
Our choir is composed of dedicated men and women who gather each Sunday to enrich the Divine Liturgy and assist the priest in leading our congregation through hymns. New members are always welcome! To join or for more information, please contact our choir director, Andrew Bacalakis at [email protected] or  973-427-7763.

Ushers: The purpose of this ministry is to enhance the spirit of worship for the congregation during the Divine Liturgy by providing good order which contributes to the spiritual nurturing of all worshipers. To volunteer for this ministry, please contact Peggy Goulet at [email protected]

 

Sharing & Caring: This ministry is for those who have been widowed, divorced, or experienced a loss in some way. The group is facilitated by Dr. Eva Krias. The group is non-judgmental, discrete, confidential, and informal. For more information contact Dr. Eva Krias at [email protected]

 

Kali Parea: “Good Company” provides a venue for our senior citizens to meet, have fellowship, and share experiences in a friendly setting. We meet once a month for lunch, activities, and good conversation. New members are always welcome! For more information, please call Christine Triant [email protected]

 

Excursions Orthodoxy (EX–O): The EX-O ministry promotes fellowship, camaraderie, and companionship to St. Nicholas parishioners by organizing day trips. For more information, contact Fr. Bill at [email protected] or  201-652-4774 ext12.

 

Stewardship: Saint  Nicholas has a dynamic stewardship program which recognizes God as the source of all gifts, including our time, talent, and treasure. Our outreach provides assistance to parishioners in their hour of need and supports many charities. For more
information on how to become a steward, contact Fr Bill at 201-652-4774 ext. 12 or Bill Razcko at [email protected] 

 

Annual Greek Festival: Saint Nicholas Greek Festival (September 20, 21, 22) is our largest fundraiser that promotes fellowship, faith, and culture. Please join us in maintaining the ongoing success of this wonderful event recognized by (201) Magazine). All volunteers and donations are welcome! OPA! For more information contact John Tsadilas at [email protected]

 

Charity Golf and Pickle Ball Outing: This event is our 2nd largest annual fundraiser to be held on Monday, June 17th at the Edgewood Country Club, in River Vale, NJ.  We would like to invite golfers, sponsors, and volunteers to participate in this wonderful event. For more information, contact Jason Fink at  [email protected]  or Charlie Charllis at [email protected]  or 201-245-6057

 

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Saints and Feasts

April 28

John the Martyr of Romania


April 28

Palm Sunday

On Sunday, five days before the Passover of the Law, the Lord came from Bethany to Jerusalem. Sending two of His disciples to bring Him a foal of an ass, He sat thereon and entered into the city. When the multitude there heard that Jesus was coming, they straightway took up the branches of palm trees in their hands, and went forth to meet Him. Others spread their garments on the ground, and yet others cut branches from the trees and strewed them in the way that Jesus was to pass; and all of them together, especially the children, went before and after Him, crying out: "Hosanna: Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord, the King of Israel" (John 12:13). This is the radiant and glorious festival of our Lord's entry into Jerusalem that we celebrate today.

The branches of the palm trees symbolize Christ's victory over the devil and death. The word Hosanna means "Save, I pray," or "Save, now." The foal of an ass, and Jesus' sitting thereon, and the fact that this animal was untamed and considered unclean according to the Law, signified the former uncleanness and wildness of the nations, and their subjection thereafter to the holy Law of the Gospel.


April 28

Memnon the Wonderworker


April 28

The Holy Nine Martyrs of Cyzicus

These holy Martyrs, who were from various regions, suffered martyrdom together when they were beheaded in Cyzicus, a city in Asia Minor on the southern coast of the Sea of Marmara.


April 29

Holy Martyr Cercyra


April 29

Jason and Sosipater the Apostles of the 70 and their Companions

Both of these Saints were disciples of the Apostle Paul, who mentions them in his Epistle to the Romans, saying: "Jason and Sosipater my kinsmen greet you" (16:21). Jason was from Tarsus of Cilicia, and became bishop there. Sosipater was from Patras of Achaia, and became Bishop of Iconium. When they had shepherded their churches well for a long time, they departed west that they might profit others also, and arrived finally at the island of Corfu, where they were the first to preach the Gospel to its people. They suffered many things for Christ's Name, drew many souls to salvation, and finished the course of their life there. In the ancient city of Corfu, a church from the first centuries, built in their honour and bearing inscriptions that mention the Saints by name, verifies the historical account concerning them.


April 29

Our Holy Father John of Kaloktenos, Metropolitan of Thebes


April 29

Holy Monday

The holy Passion of our Saviour begins today, presenting Joseph the all-comely as a prefiguring of Christ. He was the eleventh son of Jacob, and his first son by Rachel; because he was so beloved of his father, his own brethren came to envy him and cast him into a pit. Later they sold him to foreigners for thirty pieces of silver, who later sold him again in Egypt. Because of his virtue, his master gave him much authority in governing his house; because he was fair of countenance, his master's wife sought to draw him into sin with her; because of his chastity, he refused her, and through her slanders was cast into prison. Finally, he was led forth again with great glory and was honoured as a king. He became lord over all Egypt and a provider of wheat for all the people. Through all this, he typifies in himself the betrayal, Passion, death, and glorification of our Lord Jesus Christ (see Gen., chapters 37, 39 41).

To the commemoration of Patriarch Joseph is added also the narration concerning the fig tree, which on this day was cursed and subsequently dried up because of its unfruitfulness. It portrayed the Jewish synagogue, which had not produced the fruit demanded of it, that is, obedience to God and faith in Him and which was stripped of all spiritual grace by means of the curse (Matt. 21:18-20).


April 29

Nektarios the New Martyr of Optina


April 29

Basil, Bishop of Montenegro


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Gospel and Epistle Readings

Matins Gospel Reading

Palm Sunday
The Reading is from Matthew 21:1-11; 15-17

At that time, when Jesus drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, he sent two disciples, saying to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to me. If any one says anything to you, you shall say, 'The Lord has need of them,' and he will send them immediately." This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying,

"Tell the daughter of Zion,
Behold, your king is coming to you,
humble and mounted on a donkey,
and on a colt, the foal of a donkey."

The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; they brought the donkey and the colt, and put their garments on them, and he sat thereon. Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before him and that followed him shouted, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" And when he entered Jerusalem, all the city was stirred, saying, "Who is this?" And the crowds said, "This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth of Galilee." But when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying out in the temple, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" they were indignant; and they said to him, "Do you hear what they are saying?" And Jesus said to them, "Yes; have you never read,

'Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings,
you have brought perfect praise'?"

And leaving them, he went out of the city to Bethany and lodged there.


Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Fourth Mode. Psalm 117.26,1.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Verse: Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His mercy endures forever.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Philippians 4:4-9.

BRETHREN, rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let all men know your forbearance. The Lord is at hand. Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you.


Gospel Reading

Palm Sunday
The Reading is from John 12:1-18

Six days before Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazaros was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazaros was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was to betray him), said "Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?" This he said, not that he cared for the poor but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box he used to take what was put into it. Jesus said, "Let her alone, let her keep it for the day of my burial. The poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me."

When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came, not only on account of Jesus but also to see Lazaros, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests planned to put Lazaros also to death, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.

The next day a great crowd who had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" And Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it; as it is written, "Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!" His disciples did not understand this at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that this had been written of him and had been done to him. The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazaros out of the tomb and raised him from the dead bore witness. The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign.


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Hymns of the Day

Apolytikion for Palm Sunday in the First Mode

In confirming the common Resurrection, O Christ God, Thou didst raise up Lazarus from the dead before Thy Passion. Wherefore, we also, like the children, bearing the symbols of victory, cry to Thee, the Vanquisher of death: Hosanna in the highest; blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord.

Apolytikion for Palm Sunday in the Fourth Mode

As by baptism we were buried with Thee, O Christ our God, so by Thy Resurrection we were deemed worthy of immortal life; and praising Thee, we cry: Hosanna in the highest; blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal Second Mode

In Heaven, He is seated upon a Throne and on earth He rides upon a foal. O Christ our God, accept the praise of the Angels and the hymn of the Children who cry out to You, "Blessed are You who comes to recall Adam."
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Ecumenical Patriarchate News

Catechetical Homily of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew At the Opening of Holy and Great

02/24/2023

Most honorable brother Hierarchs and blessed children in the Lord, By the goodwill and grace of the all-merciful and all-benevolent God, already living in the blessed and reverent period of the Triodion, tomorrow we enter Holy and Great Lent, the arena of fasting and “venerable abstinence” that eliminate the passions, during which the depth and wealth of our Orthodox Tradition and the vigilant care of the Church for the spiritual progress of its children are revealed.
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Archdiocese News

JOURNEYING THROUGH GREAT LENT, HOLY WEEK, AND PASCHA: A Series of Video Reflections by the Holy Cross Faculty

04/22/2024

The Dean of Holy Cross, Fr. Eugen J. Pentiuc, and the Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology faculty invite you to engage with this educational video series, presented by ©The Scriptorium Initiative, offering spiritual guidance and instruction throughout the Triodion, Lenten and Holy Week season. The links to the video recordings will be posted each Sunday on this page and a Holy Cross Educational channel on YouTube.


Parish Highlight: Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church of Whitestone, NY

04/25/2024

Today, Holy Cross is a thriving community presided over by Rev. Presbyter Nicolaos Paros. Fr. Nicolaos joined the Holy Cross family on November 16, 2023, along with Presvytera Maria and their daughter Polixeni. Holy Cross has numerous ministries such as Greek Afternoon School, Philoptochos, early learning academy "Stars Academy", and more. For more information visit holycrossgreekchurch.com


WCC “Ahead of Her Time” Book Stokes Imagination of Next Generation

04/24/2024

A book discussion on “Ahead of Her Time: Pan-African Women of Faith and the Vision of Christian Unity, Mission, and Justice,” showed how women of pan-African descent are bringing the wisdom and fire of ecumenism into the hearts and minds of the next generation.


Metropolis of Atlanta Annual Pascha Picnic May 11

04/23/2024

Join the Metropolis of Atlanta for their Annual Pascha Picnic! The picnic will take place on Saturday, May 11, 2024, 11:00 AM at the Diakonia Retreat Center 455 Quail Ridge Road
Salem, SC 29676.


Hellenic College Holy Cross Announces 2024 Honorees

04/23/2024

Hellenic College Holy Cross will once again recognize a couple for their exemplary vision and leadership in the Church. Helen and Archon Louis Nicozisis will each receive an honorary doctorate from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology at the upcoming 82nd Commencement on May 18, 2024. This highest honor the school can bestow will be granted to them for the impact they have made at Holy Cross and across the Archdiocese in the field of missions and evangelism.


The Hellenic Initiative is once again partnering with DIATROFI – The Program on Food Aid and Promotion of Healthy Nutrition

04/23/2024

This Easter Season, The Hellenic Initiative is once again partnering with DIATROFI – The Program on Food Aid and Promotion of Healthy Nutrition, implemented by Ινστιτούτο Prolepsis, which supports children who face food insecurity and hunger with daily meals delivered to schools. 


Sunday Sermon Series Palm Sunday April 28

04/23/2024

This week, find insights about the upcoming Gospel reading, where we learn about Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. But who were people expecting the Messiah to be? And what do the donkey and the palms symbolize? Also, how can Christ enter our hearts?


April 2024 St. Michael's Home Construction Updates

04/22/2024

Apart from landscaping and the final layer of roadway asphalt, the exterior of the structure has been completely transformed with new windows, doors, brickwork, stuccoing, roofing, heating/ac units, etc. and the entire project is just over 2/3 complete. Focus is now on the interior and since all spaces have been partitioned, installation of HVAC, electrical work and plumbing continues and needs close to $2,000,000 to be completed. Once all those systems are installed, sheetrock will go up. While those materials have been purchased and are on-site, another $2,000,000 is needed to complete that major stage of construction. 


“An Inmate is Praying for Me, Unworthy as I Am”: A Lenten Reflection from Fr. Michael Pejovic

04/22/2024

Being a Prisoner Relationship Manager (PRM) for OCPM is no easy task. Each PRM is responsible for hundreds of people in prison across the United States. They are not only personally responding to each inmate’s spiritual needs, but also assisting his or her community around them (family members, Orthodox clergy, prison staff, etc.). With the trauma that often accompanies just one person in prison, you can imagine the heavy cross our PRMs are carrying for our brothers and sisters behind bars.


Saints Constantine and Helen in Jackson Heights, NY Prepare and Deliver Meals for a Midnight Run

04/22/2024

Yesterday, April 22, 2024, the community of Saints Constantine and Helen in Jackson Heights, NY hosted a Midnight Run. Coordinated by Fr. George Hazlaris, parishioners came together and donated, helped prepare meals, and delivered meals as a part of this volunteer effort. 
 


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