Bulletin for Sunday, June 29, 2025 - Holy and Glorious Apostles Peter and Paul

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard Website: www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY 11209 Church Office: (718) 238-8008

Email: churchsecretary@smaoc.org Rectory: (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ellias, Pastor Rev. Deacon Farid Farkouh

Email: pastor@smaoc.org farkouhfarid@gmail.com

Sunday, June 29, 2025

The Holy and Glorious Apostles Peter and Paul

Tone 2 and Eothinon 3

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 2

When thou, O immortal Life, didst humble thyself unto death, then didst thou destroy death by the brightness of thy Godhead; and when thou didst raise the bowels of the earth, then all the heavenly powers exclaimed, O Christ, thou art the Giver of life! Glory to thee, O our God!

Apolytikion of Saints Peter and Paul – Tone 4

O Foremost in the ranks of Apostles, and teachers of the world, intercede with the Master of all to grant safety to the world and to our souls the Great Mercy.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe. For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

O undisputed intercessor of Christians, the mediatrix unrejected by the Creator, turn not away from the voice of our petitions, though we be sinners. Come to us in time, who cry to thee in faith, with assistance; for thou art good. Hasten to us with intercessions, O Theotokos, who dost ever intercede for those who honour thee.

Epistle – II Corinthians 11:21-33; 12:1-9 (Saints Peter and Paul)

Prokeimenon. Their sound hath gone forth into all the earth.

Verse. The heavens show forth the glory of God.

BRETHREN, whatever anyone dares to boast of – I am speaking as a fool – I also dare to boast of that. Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I. Are they servants of Christ? I am a better one – I am talking like a madman – with far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death. Five times I have received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one. Three times I have been beaten with rods; once I was stoned. Three times I have been shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been adrift at sea; on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brethren; in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure upon me of my anxiety for all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to fall, and I am not indignant?

If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness. The God and Father of the Lord Jesus, he who is blessed forever, knows that I do not lie. At Damascus, the governor under King Aretas guarded the city of Damascus in order to seize me, but I was let down in a basket through a window in the wall, and escaped his hands.

I must boast; there is nothing to be gained by it, but I will go on to visions and revelations of the Lord. I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven – whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows. And I know that this man was caught up into Paradise – whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows – and he heard things that cannot be told, which man may not utter. On behalf of this man I will boast, but on my own behalf I will not boast, except of my weaknesses. Though if I wish to boast, I shall not be a fool, for I shall be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me. And to keep me from being too elated by the abundance of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to harass me, to keep me from being too elated. Three times I besought the Lord about this, that it should leave me; but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” I will all the more gladly boast of my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Gospel – Matthew 16:13-19 (Holy Apostles Peter and Paul)

AT THAT TIME, when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that I, the Son of man, am?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” Jesus said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona: for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

Next week’s homework: Romans 6:18-23 (Fourth Sunday after Pentecost)

Matthew 8:5-13 (Fourth Sunday of Matthew)

June 29, 2025 – HOLY AND GLORIOUS APOSTLES PETER AND PAUL

We are pleased to welcome you to worship with us today. Please note that only Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves with prayer, fasting and a recent confession may approach to receive Holy Communion. Everyone is welcome to receive the blessing and partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal. Please introduce yourself to our pastor during the coffee hour and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

Mission Statement - The mission of St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, NY, is to love and worship God through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and to live and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission through education, outreach, fellowship, and works of mercy with love for each other, our neighbors, and our diverse world.

TODAY, JUNE 29 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Linda Abdallah, Fouad Allawh, William Assatly, Sr., Angela Boojamra, Mae Karram, Maggy Karam, George Massabni, Helen Sahadi and Salvatore Savarese. Memory eternal!

Rima Al Sifi offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Maria Kryakous. Memory eternal!

Sandra and Robert Coogan offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Salvatore Savarese. Memory eternal!

Corinne and Michael Mallia and Family offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Maggy Karam. Memory eternal!

Irene Tashji offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her grandmother, the handmaiden of God Linda Abdallah. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 6 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. Fuad Yousef Dirbas, Jamila Eadeh, Marguerite and Fred Farkouh, Michael Eyd, and Nora Hamod, Viola Kazan, George T. Lewis, Georgette Maione, Lillian and Leon Hattab, and Baseem and Valentine Trabulsi. Memory eternal!

Regina and Brian Farkouh will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Marguerite and Fred Farkouh. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, John Petrick (Norwegian), Joyce Samaha (Sunrise, Mountain Lakes), Alice Farkouh, Robert Ghiz, Renee Setteducato, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

SUMMER DRESS - With the warm summer Sundays upon us, please remember to dress properly for services. No shorts and t-shirts (especially with writing or logos on them) for adults and teens. Remember we are coming to worship in a sacred place.

HOLY BREAD – Diane Zamaria offers the Holy Bread for the month of June for the repose of the soul of her beloved husband, the servant of God Dr. Samir Zamaria. Memory eternal! Paula Arnuk and Family have offered the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Dr. Issam Arnuk for the month. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for July and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

OCMC – Our June pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for OCMC (Orthodox Christian Mission Center). Please be as generous as possible in support of Orthodox missions and missionaries throughout the world. If you are not receiving monthly envelopes, please contact the church office.

BACKPACK PROJECT – Teen SOYO will once again sponsor 48 backpacks for underprivileged students in District 20 of the NYC Department of Education in cooperation with FOCUS. We welcome donations of $25/backpack. Our total commitment is $1200. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “Backpack” in the memo line. The Teens thank you for supporting their community outreach project!

GOLF OUTING – Mark your calendars for this year’s edition of the St. Mary’s Church Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing on Monday, September 8, the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos! This year we will be in a new location, the beautiful Richmond County Golf and Country Club on Staten Island, so it will be easier for Brooklyners, Staten Islanders, and New Jerseyites to attend. We will honor Nahla Bittar Fattouh with our Lifetime Achievement Award and the late Alexander Deeb with the Victor M. Samra, Jr. Memorial Award. Invitations and sponsorship forms will be in the mail within the next two weeks. Please plan to support this event which has covered the cost of so many projects and capital improvements for our beloved parish.

ROOF APPEAL – The Parish Council has mailed an appeal for the replacement of the church roof. If all of our 300 households contributed approximately $400 each, we would cover the cost. Let’s prayerfully consider our response to this necessary project. We acknowledge donations from Rose Abdallah, Sonia and Henry Abounaoum, Anita Absey, Dr. Bassam and Naziha Aldaia, Nicole and Jeff Anderson, Kim and Gary Gangone, Majed Atalla and Samia Keriaky, Angela and Christopher Athineos, Sandra Arida, Joan Bacon, Patricia Ballan, John J. DeLuca Foundation, Nicholas El-Khoury, Father Michael and Laila Ellias, Anita and John Eyd, Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh, Alice and David Furer, Josette and John Generale, Giorgi Guguberidze, James Harris, Krassimira Ivanchev, Joyce Katen, George Khoury, Dianna Russo Kitchen, Anne Mackoul, Edward Mackoul, Rafik Mahab, Corinne and Michael Mallia, Linda Mantia, Daria and Thomas Mayrose, Denise McBride, George Moore, Holly and Marc Nakleh, Susan and Gordon Nelson, Karen and Robert Rich, Marian Russo, Brenda Sabbagh, Audrey and Charles Sahadi, Louise Sahadi, Robert Sahadi, Linda and George Salamy, Catherine and Raymond Saleeby, Sam Salhany, Caroline and Peter Schneirla, Barbara and Dennis Shawah, Karen and Anthony Tadross, Irene Tashji, George Trisciuzzi, Marilyn and Mike Tulaney, Gale Zarr, and Karen Zraick.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, July 14 Parish Council, 7 PM

Monday, September 8 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

All services will be live streamed via twitch.tv/smaoc.

Bulletin for Sunday, June 22, 2025 - Second Sunday after Pentecost

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard Website: www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY 11209 Church Office: (718) 238-8008

Email: churchsecretary@smaoc.org Rectory: (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ellias, Pastor Rev. Deacon Farid Farkouh

Email: pastor@smaoc.org farkouhfarid@gmail.com

Sunday, June 22, 2025

Second Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 1 and Eothinon 2

Sunday of All Saints of Antioch

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 1

The stone being sealed by the Jews, and thy pure body being guarded by the soldiers, thou didst rise on the third day, O Saviour, granting life to the world. Wherefore, the heavenly powers acclaimed thee, O Giver of life, crying, glory to thy Resurrection, O Christ! Glory to thy kingdom! Glory to thy gracious providence, O thou only Lover of mankind.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe. For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Apolytikion of All Saints of Antioch – Tone 4

Come, let us honor all the holy of Antioch, O fellow travelers in the way of the faithful, the pure and blessed Apostles with the hierarchs, martyrs with the righteous ones, their worn path wisely walking, wondering at their holy lives, overflowing with wonders; thus let us walk in peace and fear of God so that we all win the dwelling in Paradise.

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

O undisputed intercessor of Christians, the mediatrix unrejected by the Creator, turn not away from the voice of our petitions, though we be sinners. Come to us in time, who cry to thee in faith, with assistance; for thou art good. Hasten to us with intercessions, O Theotokos, who dost ever intercede for those who honour thee.

Epistle – Romans 2:10-16 (Second Sunday after Pentecost)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 32.22, 1. Let your mercy, O Lord, be upon us.

Verse. Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

BRETHREN, glory and honor and peace for every one who does good, the Jew first and also the Greek. For God shows no partiality.

All who have sinned without the law will also perish without the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law. For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified. When Gentiles who have not the law do by nature what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law. They show that what the law requires is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness and their conflicting thoughts accuse or perhaps excuse them on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.

Gospel – Matthew 4:18-23 (Second Sunday after Pentecost)

AT THAT TIME, as Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him. And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him.

And he went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every infirmity among the people.

Next week’s homework: II Corinthians 11:21-12:9 (Holy Apostles Peter and Paul)

Matthew 16:13-19 (Holy Apostles Peter and Paul)

HOLY BREAD – Diane Zamaria offers the Holy Bread for the month of June for the repose of the soul of her beloved husband, the servant of God Dr. Samir Zamaria. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for June, and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FASTING DISCIPLINE – We continue the Fast of the Apostles. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs unto the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul on Sunday, June 29.

POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving. Please reverently hear these prayers before beginning to “chat.”

PLEASE MAKE SURE all cell phones and electronic devices are turned off in church or at home.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

June 22, 2025 – SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

We are pleased to welcome you to worship with us today. Please note that only Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves with prayer, fasting and a recent confession may approach to receive Holy Communion. Everyone is welcome to receive the blessing and partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal. Please introduce yourself to our pastor during the coffee hour and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

Mission Statement - The mission of St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, NY, is to love and worship God through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and to live and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission through education, outreach, fellowship, and works of mercy with love for each other, our neighbors, and our diverse world.

TODAY, JUNE 22 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God, Mabel Bitar, Nancy Davis, Florence Lewis Dibbs, Claudette Hadad, Margarete Haddad, Mary and Philip Hanna, Gloria Jabara, Lorraine Lewis, Lydia Lewis, Marie Sayegh, Margaret Soued, and Adeeba Tweel. Memory eternal!

Paula Arnuk and Family offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Dr. Issam Arnuk. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 29 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God, Linda Abdallah, Fouad Allawh, William Assatly, Sr., Angela Boojamra, Mae Karram, Maggy Karam, George Massabni, Helen Sahadi and Salvatore Savarese. Memory eternal!

Corinne and Michael Mallia and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Maggy Karam. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, John Petrick (Norwegian), Joyce Samaha (Sunrise, Mountain Lakes), Alice Farkouh, Robert Ghiz, Renee Setteducato, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – Fr. Michael will attend the Dioceses of the East Parish Life Conference at the Antiochian Village from Wednesday through Saturday this week. In the event of a pastoral emergency, please call Deacon Farid at (347) 524-7708.

GOLF OUTING – Mark your calendars for this year’s edition of the St. Mary’s Church Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing on Monday, September 8, the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos! This year we will be in a new location, the beautiful Richmond County Golf and Country Club on Staten Island, so it will be easier for Brooklyners, Staten Islanders, and New Jerseyites to attend. We will honor Nahla Bittar Fattouh with our Lifetime Achievement Award and the late Alexander Deeb with the Victor M. Samra, Jr. Memorial Award. Invitations and sponsorship forms will be in the mail within the next two weeks. Please plan to support this event which has covered the cost of so many projects and capital improvements for our beloved parish.

ROOF APPEAL – The Parish Council has mailed an appeal for the replacement of the church roof. If all of our 300 households contributed approximately $400 each, we would cover the cost. Let’s prayerfully consider our response to this necessary project. We acknowledge donations from Rose Abdallah, Sonia and Henry Abounaoum, Anita Absey, Dr. Bassam and Naziha Aldaia, Nicole and Jeff Anderson, Majed Atalla and Samia Keriaky, Angela and Christopher Athineos, Sandra Arida, Joan Bacon, Patricia Ballan, John J. DeLuca Foundation, Nicholas El-Khoury, Father Michael and Laila Ellias, Anita and John Eyd, Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh, Alice and David Furer, Josette and John Generale, Giorgi Guguberidze, James Harris, Krassimira Ivanchev, Joyce Katen, George Khoury, Dianna Russo Kitchen, Edward Mackoul, Rafik Mahab, Corinne and Michael Mallia, Linda Mantia, Daria and Thomas Mayrose, Denise McBride, George Moore, Susan and Gordon Nelson, Karen and Robert Rich, Marian Russo, Brenda Sabbagh, Audrey and Charles Sahadi, Louise Sahadi, Robert Sahadi, Linda and George Salamy, Catherine and Raymond Saleeby, Sam Salhany, Caroline and Peter Schneirla, Barbara and Dennis Shawah, Karen and Anthony Tadross, Irene Tashji, George Trisciuzzi, Gale Zarr, and Karen Zraick.

OCMC – Our June pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for OCMC (Orthodox Christian Mission Center). Please be as generous as possible in support of Orthodox missions and missionaries throughout the world.

BACKPACK PROJECT – Teen SOYO will once again sponsor 48 backpacks for underprivileged students in District 20 of the NYC Department of Education in cooperation with FOCUS. We welcome donations of $25/backpack. Our total commitment is $1200. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “Backpack” in the memo line. The Teens thank you for supporting their community outreach project!

ON-LINE GIVING – St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online. Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or checking account. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

ESTATE PLANNING – Have I included St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan?

DATES TO REMEMBER

June 25-29 Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

Monday, July 14 Parish Council, 7 PM

Monday, September 8 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

All services will be live streamed via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “So struggle, not fearing empty fears, and do not spare yourselves. The myrrh-bearing women were close to the Lord while being jostled by those who crucified Christ. You, too, do not look upon what is not within you. Let the world scream, let foolish superstition rage, let misfortunes arise – you follow your path, not looking back or to the side. Do not observe that which surrounds you; do not hear empty talk. Only look at what is underneath your feet and patiently set them on the indicated commandments, and look to your conscience which has been enlightened from above. For in the world also there are many women laborers of piety who also seek the Lord and zealously seek to attain Him. Beware that you are not left behind them.”

- St. Theophan the Recluse

Bulletin for Sunday, June 15, 2025 - First Sunday after Pentecost and Sunday of All Saints

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard Website: www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY 11209 Church Office: (718) 238-8008

Email: churchsecretary@smaoc.org Rectory: (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ellias, Pastor Rev. Deacon Farid Farkouh

Email: pastor@smaoc.org farkouhfarid@gmail.com

Sunday, June 15, 2025

First Sunday after Pentecost and Sunday of All Saints

Tone 8 and Eothinon 1

Prophet Amos

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 8

O Compassionate One, thou didst descend from the heights; thou didst submit to the three-day burial, that thou mightest deliver us from passion. Thou art our Life and our Resurrection, O Lord, glory to thee.

Apolytikion of All Saints – Tone 4

Thy Church, O Christ God, hath regaled herself in the blood of thy Martyrs, throughout all the world, as in porphyry and purple. Through them she lifteth her voice, crying, Turn with thy compassion to thy people, and grant peace to thy city, and to our souls the Great Mercy.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe. For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Kontakion of the Saints – Tone 8

To thee, O Lord and Author of all creation, the universe offereth as first-fruits of nature the divinity-bearing Martyrs. Wherefore, by their implorings preserve thou thy Church in perfect safety, for the sake of the Theotokos, O most Merciful One.

Epistle – Hebrews 11:33-40; 12:1-2 (First Sunday and the Sunday of All Saints)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 67.35, 26. God is wonderful among his saints.

Verse. Bless God in the congregations.

BRETHREN, all the saints through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, received promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched raging fire, escaped the edge of the sword, won strength out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. Women received their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and scourging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tempted, they were killed with the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, ill-treated – of whom the world was not worthy – wandering over deserts and mountains and in dens and caves of the earth.

And all these, though well attested by their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had foreseen something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfection of our faith.

Gospel – Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38; 19:27-30 (Sunday of All Saints)

THE LORD SAID TO HIS DISCIPLES, “Every one who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven; but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.

“He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and he who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.”

Then Peter said in reply, “Lo, we have left everything and followed you. What then shall we have?” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of man shall sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundred-fold, and inherit eternal life. But many that are first will be last, and the last first.”

Next week’s homework: Romans 2:10-16 (Second Sunday after Pentecost)

Matthew 4:18-23 (Second Sunday after Pentecost)

FASTING DISCIPLINE – Tomorrow we enter the Fast of the Apostles. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs unto the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul on Sunday, June 29.

PLEASE MAKE SURE all cell phones and electronic devices are turned off in church or at home.

June 15, 2025 – FIRST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST AND SUNDAY OF ALL SAINTS

We are pleased to welcome you to worship with us today. Please note that only Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves with prayer, fasting and a recent confession may approach to receive Holy Communion. Everyone is welcome to receive the blessing and partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal. Please introduce yourself to our pastor during the coffee hour and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

Mission Statement - The mission of St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, NY, is to love and worship God through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and to live and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission through education, outreach, fellowship, and works of mercy with love for each other, our neighbors, and our diverse world.

TODAY, JUNE 15 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Ateyeh, Jr., Alice, Edward and Wadiha Baloutine, Michael Haje, John M. Kitchen, Joseph Mashamesh, Rose and George Samman, Olga and Albert G. Wardi.

Dianna Russo Kitchen offers Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God John Kitchen. Memory eternal!

Diane Zamaria offers Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a 2-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God Dr. Samir Zamaria. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 22 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Linda Abdallah, Mabel Bitar, Nancy Davis, Florence Lewis Dibbs, Claudette Hadad, Margarete Haddad, Mary and Philip Hanna, Gloria Jabara, Lorraine Lewis, Lydia Lewis, Marie Sayegh, Margaret Soued, and Adeeba Tweel. Memory eternal!

Paula Arnuk and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Dr. Issam Arnuk. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Terry Mackoul (HSS), John Petrick (Norwegian), Joyce Samaha (Sunrise, Mountain Lakes), Alice Farkouh, Robert Ghiz, Renee Setteducato, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving. Please reverently hear these prayers while exiting.

ADULT EDUCATION – We will conclude our study of the Book of Acts on Wednesday at 7 PM. This week we will consider chapters 21-28. In addition, there will be a class for catechumens and inquirers at the same time. The Zoom link for the Bible Study is https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

DONATION OPPORTUNITY – Steven Petrick has offered the next order of wine for Holy Communion in memory of the servants of God Viola and Albert Mesnooh. Memory eternal!

COFFEE HOUR COURTESY – We gently remind parents to keep an eye on their children during the Coffee Hour. We have to keep in mind that running children could bump into some of our senior members. We want the children to be able to blow off steam, but safely.

DID YOU KNOW? It costs $7,178 every week to operate our parish. That number does not include capital expenses like the roof replacement.

ROOF APPEAL – The Parish Council has mailed an appeal for the replacement of the church roof. If all of our 300 households contributed approximately $400 each, we would cover the cost. Let’s prayerfully consider our response to this necessary project. We acknowledge donations from Rose Abdallah, Sonia and Henry Abounaoum, Anita Absey, Nicole and Jeff Anderson, Angela and Christopher Athineos, Sandra Arida, Joan Bacon, Patricia Ballan, John J. DeLuca Foundation, Nicholas El-Khoury, Father Michael and Laila Ellias, Anita and John Eyd, Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh, Alice and David Furer, Josette and John Generale, Giorgi Guguberidze, James Harris, Krassimira Invanchev, Joyce Katen, George Khoury, Edward Mackoul, Rafik Mahab, Corinne and Michael Mallia, Linda Mantia, Daria and Thomas Mayrose, Denise McBride, George Moore, Susan and Gordon Nelson, Karen and Robert Rich, Marian Russo, Audrey and Charles Sahadi, Louise Sahadi, Robert Sahadi, Linda and George Salamy, Catherine and Raymond Saleeby, Sam Salhany, Caroline and Peter Schneirla, Barbara and Dennis Shawah, Karen and Anthony Tadross, Irene Tashji, George Trisciuzzi, Gale Zarr, and Karen Zraick.

OCMC – Our June pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for OCMC (Orthodox Christian Mission Center). Please be as generous as possible in support of Orthodox missions and missionaries throughout the world.

GOLF OUTING – Mark your calendars for this year’s St. Mary’s Church Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing on Monday, September 8, the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos! This year we will be in a new location, the beautiful Richmond County Golf and Country Club on Staten Island, so it will be easier for Brooklynites to attend. Details about honorees and reservations will follow soon.

ESTATE PLANNING – Summer begins this week. Let me cultivate the garden of the future by adding something in my estate plan for the church.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, June 18 Bible Study and Catechism Class, 7 PM

Saturday, June 21 Hall Rental

Sunday, June 22 PTO-sponsored Career Day

Sara Tannous Baptism, 3 PM

June 25-29 Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

All services will be live streamed via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “God the Holy Spirit has many abodes in this vast universe, but a pure heart is the place in which He most delights to dwell. This is His true abode; all others are only His workshop.”

- St. Nicholai of Zica

Bulletin for Sunday, June 8, 2025 - The Great Feast of Holy Pentecost

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard Website: www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY 11209 Church Office: (718) 238-8008

Email: churchsecretary@smaoc.org Rectory: (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ellias, Pastor Rev. Deacon Farid Farkouh

Email: pastor@smaoc.org farkouhfarid@gmail.com

Sunday, June 8, 2025

The Great Feast of Holy Pentecost

We are pleased to welcome you to worship with us today. Please note that only Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves with prayer, fasting and a recent confession may approach to receive Holy Communion. Everyone is welcome to receive the blessing and partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal. Please introduce yourself to our pastor during the coffee hour and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

Today’s Hymns and Readings

During the Little Entrance – O Lord, in Thy strength the king shall be glad, and in Thy salvation shall he rejoice exceedingly. The desire of his heart hast Thou granted unto him, and hast not denied him the request of his lips. Thou wentest before him with blessings of goodness, Thou has set upon his head a crown of precious stones. He asked life of Thee, and Thou gavest him length of days unto ages of ages.

Entrance Hymn – Be thou exalted, O Lord, in thy own strength. We will sing and praise thy mighty acts. Save us, O good Comforter, as we sing to Thee: Alleluia.

Apolytikion of Pentecost – Tone 8

Blessed art thou, O Christ our God, who has revealed the fishermen as most wise, having sent upon them the Holy Spirit, and through them thou has fished the universe, O Lover of mankind, glory to thee.

Kontakion of Pentecost – Tone 8

When the high One descended, confusing tongues, he divided the nations. And when he distributed the fiery tongues he called all to one unity. Wherefore, in unison we glorify the most Holy Spirit.

Instead of the Trisagion Hymn, “As many of you as have been baptized into Christ have truly put on Christ. Alleluia.”

Epistle – Acts 2:1-11 (Sunday of Pentecost)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 18.4, 1. Their voice has gone out into all the earth.

Verse. The heavens declare the glory of God.

WHEN THE DAY OF PENTECOST had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly a sound came from heaven like the rush of a mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared to them tongues as of fire, distributed and resting on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. And they were amazed and wondered, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontos and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians, we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.”

Gospel – John 7:37-52, 8:12 (Sunday of Pentecost)

ON THE LAST DAY OF THE FEAST, the great day, Jesus stood up and proclaimed, “If any one thirst, let him come to me and drink. He who believes in me, as the scripture has said, ‘Out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.’” Now this he said about the Spirit, which those who believed in him were to receive; for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

When they heard these words, many of the people said, “This is really the prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? Has not the scripture said that the Christ is descended from David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” So there was a division among the people over him. Some of them wanted to arrest him, but no one laid hands on him.

The officers then went back to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring him?” The officers answered, “No man ever spoke like this man!” The Pharisees answered them, “Are you led astray, you also? Have any of the authorities or of the Pharisees believed in him? But this crowd, who do not know the law, are accursed.” Nicodemus, who had gone to him before, and who was one of them, said to them, “Does our law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?” They replied, “Are you from Galilee too? Search and you will see that no prophet is to rise from Galilee.”

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Next week’s homework: Hebrews 11:33-40; 12:1-2 (First Sunday and Sunday of All Saints)

Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38; 19:27-30 (1st Sunday of Matthew)

FASTING DISCIPLINE – The week following the Sunday of Pentecost is fast-free.

June 8, 2025 – THE GREAT FEAST OF HOLY PENTECOST

Mission Statement - The mission of St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, NY, is to love and worship God through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and to live and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission through education, outreach, fellowship, and works of mercy with love for each other, our neighbors, and our diverse world.

TODAY, JUNE 8 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Eduardo Elias Khouzami, Betty Massab, Karime Salloum Matar, Albert Sabah, and Wadia Zain.

Dr. Nicolas El-Khoury offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of his sister Nelly on her birthday. Many years!

Marie and Tony Aflak of Mid-East Bakery offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Malakie Zogob. Memory eternal!

June Sabah offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Albert T. Sabah. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 15 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Ateyeh, Jr., Alice, Edward and Wadiha Baloutine, Michael Haje, John M. Kitchen, Joseph Mashamesh, Rose and George Samman, Olga and Albert G. Wardi. Memory eternal!

Dianna Russo Kitchen will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God John Kitchen. Memory eternal!

HOLY BREAD – Diana Zamaria offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the month of June for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God Dr. Bassam Zamaria. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Terry Mackoul (HSS), John Petrick (Norwegian), Joyce Samaha (Sunrise, Mountain Lakes), Alice Farkouh, Robert Ghiz, Renee Setteducato, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving. Please reverently hear these prayers before beginning to “chat.”

ADULT EDUCATION – We will continue our study of the Book of Acts on Wednesdays at 7 PM. This week we will consider chapters 16-20. In addition, there will be a class for catechumens and inquirers at the same time.

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, June 11, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. We will be bidding “farewell” to Richard Zogob this week. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information. In addition, Our Time sponsors Pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM. All players and spectators are welcome.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S DINNER – The Ladies of St. Mary’s will hold their annual “closing dinner” on Thursday, June 12, at 6:30 at Hunter’s Steak House. Please contact Ladies President Sandra Arida for more information. All women of the parish are welcome.

GREAT VESPERS – Due to travel, vacation, conference and convention schedules, Saturday, June 14, will be the last Great Vespers until September. If you have not attended Great Vespers yet this year, this week would be your last opportunity until after Labor Day!

GOLF OUTING – Mark your calendars for this year’s edition of the St. Mary’s Church Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing on Monday, September 8, the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos! This year we will be in a new location, the beautiful Richmond County Golf and Country Club on Staten Island, so it will be easier for Brooklynites to attend. Details about honorees and reservations will follow soon.

DONATION OPPORTUNITY – It is time to re-order wine for Holy Communion. A donation of $150 would cover the next order.

DID YOU KNOW? It costs $7,178 every week to operate our parish. That number does not include capital expenses like the roof replacement.

ROOF APPEAL – The Parish Council has mailed an appeal for the replacement of the church roof. If all of our 300 households contributed approximately $400 each, we would cover the cost. Let’s prayerfully consider our response to this necessary project.

OCMC – Our June pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for OCMC (Orthodox Christian Mission Center). Please be as generous as possible in support of Orthodox missions and missionaries throughout the world.

PLEASE MAKE SURE all cell phones and electronic devices are turned off in church or at home.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, June 9 Parish Council, 7 PM

Wednesday, June 11 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Bible Study and Catechumen Class, 7 PM

Thursday, June 12 Ladies Dinner @ Hunter’s, 6:30 PM

Friday, June 13 Family Night and Bible Bowl, 7-9 PM

Saturday, June 14 Bracy-Kostikas Wedding, 1:30 PM

Great Vespers, 5 PM

Monday, September 8 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

All services will be live streamed via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS - “Christ is born; the Spirit is His forerunner. He is baptized; the Spirit bears witness. He is tempted; the Spirit leads Him up. He works miracles; the Sprit accompanies them. He ascends; the Spirit takes His place.”

- St. Gregory the Theologian

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, June 1, 2025 - Sunday of the After-Feast of the Ascension

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard Website: www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY 11209 Church Office: (718) 238-8008

Email: churchsecretary@smaoc.org Rectory: (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ellias, Pastor Rev. Deacon Farid Farkouh

Email: pastor@smaoc.org farkouhfarid@gmail.com

Sunday, June 1, 2025

Sunday of the After-Feast of the Ascension

Tone 6 and Eothinon 10

Commemoration of the Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 6

When Mary stood at thy grave looking for thy sacred body, angelic powers shone above thy revered tomb, and the soldiers who were to keep guard became as dead men. Thou led hades captive and wast not tempted thereby. Thou didst meet the Virgin and didst give life to the world; O thou that art risen from the dead! O Lord, glory to thee.

Apolytikion of the Ascension – Tone 4

Thou hast ascended in glory, O Christ our God, and gladdened thy Disciples with the promise of the Holy Spirit, having become confident of the blessing. Verily, thou art the Son of God, and Deliverer of the world.

Apolytikion of the Holy Fathers – Tone 8

Thou, O Christ, art our God of exceeding praise who didst establish our holy Fathers as luminous stars upon earth, and through them didst guide us unto the true Faith, O most merciful One, glory to thee.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe. For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Kontakion of the Ascension – Tone 6

When thou didst fulfill thy dispensation for our sakes, uniting the terrestrials with the celestials, thou didst ascend in glory, O Christ our God, inseparable in space, but constant without separation, and crying unto thy beloved, I am with you, and no one shall be against you.

Epistle – Acts 20:16-18, 28-36 (Sunday of the Holy Fathers of Nicea)

Prokeimenon. Hymn of the Three Children. Daniel 3.26-27. Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our fathers.

Verse. For you are just in all you have done.

IN THOSE DAYS, Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he might not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hastening to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost.

And from Miletos he sent to Ephesus ad called to him the elders of the church. And when they came to him, he said to them:

“Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God which he obtained with the blood of his own Son. I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore, be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears. And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. I coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my necessities, and to those who were with me. In all things I have shown you that by so toiling one must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

And when he had spoken thus, he knelt down and prayed with them all.

Gospel – John 17:1-13 (Sunday of the Holy Fathers of Nicea)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus lifted up his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify thy Son that the Son may glorify thee, since thou has given him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom thou has given him. And this is eternal life, that they know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent. I glorified thee on earth, having accomplished the work which thou gavest me to do; and now, Father, glorify thou me in thy own presence with the glory which I had with thee before the world was made.

“I have manifested thy name to the men whom thou gavest me out of the world; thine they were, and thou gavest them to me, and they have kept thy word. Now they know that everything that thou hast given me is from thee; for I have given them the words which thou gavest me, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from thee; and they have believed that thou didst send me. I am praying for them; I am not praying for the world but for those whom thou hast given me, for they are thine; all mine are thine, and thine are mine, and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to thee. Holy Father, keep them in thy name, which thou hast given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. While I was with them, I kept them in thy name, which thou hast given me; I have guarded them, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition, that the scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves.”

Next week’s homework: Acts 2:1-11 (Holy Pentecost)

John 7:37-52, 8:12 (Holy Pentecost)

FASTING DISCIPLINE – This week we fast as is customary on Wednesday and Friday. There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 8.

ADULT EDUCATION – We will resume our study of the Book of Acts on Wednesdays at 7 PM. This week we will consider chapters 11-15. In addition, there will be a class for catechumens and inquirers at the same time.

MAAMOUL BAKE SALE – The Ladies of St. Mary’s are pleased to announce that their Annual Maamoul Bake Sale netted $13,175. They will contribute $10,000 to International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) for their relief work in Syria and Lebanon, $2,675 toward the cost of the new oven, and the difference of $500 to the Kitchen Supplies account. God bless all their efforts and their very talented hands!

ROOF APPEAL – The Parish Council has mailed an appeal for the replacement of the church roof. If all of our 300 households contributed approximately $400 each, we would cover the cost. Let’s prayerfully consider our response to this necessary project.

ON-LINE GIVING – St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online. Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or checking account. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, June 2 Fundraiser of Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Center

Wednesday, June 4 Bible Study and Catechumen Classes, 7 PM

Saturday, June 7 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Sunday, June 8 Holy Pentecost

Monday, June 9 Parish Council, 7 PM

Thursday, June 12 Ladies’ Closing Dinner @ Hunter’s, 6:30 PM

All services will be live streamed via twitch.tv/smaoc.

PLEASE MAKE SURE all cell phones and electronic devices are turned off in church or at home.

We are pleased to welcome you to worship with us today. Please note that only Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves with prayer, fasting and a recent confession may approach to receive Holy Communion. Everyone is welcome to receive the blessing and partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal. Please introduce yourself to our pastor during the coffee hour and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

June 1, 2025 – SUNDAY OF THE AFTER-FEAST OF THE ASCENSION

Mission Statement - The mission of St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, NY, is to love and worship God through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and to live and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission through education, outreach, fellowship, and works of mercy with love for each other, our neighbors, and our diverse world.

TODAY, JUNE 1 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Shafica Debagie, George Fattouh, James Vernon Harris, Nicholas Malouf, Wadih Massab, John and Maurice Moussy, Alice Muscat, Khalil Nader, Nicholas Orfaly, Sebastian Rothhammer, Henrietta Shawah, Adolph, Rose and Nicholas Smatt, Christ Sparsidis, Theodore Tadross, and Marianne Trabulsi.

Leila and Raymond Trabulsi offer Prayers of Oblation for the health of the servants of God Drs. Edward and Karen Trabulsi and Family, and Michael Trabulsi. Many years! They will also pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Marianne and Victor Trabulsi, Herb and John Trabulsi, Valentine and Baseem Trabulsi, Helen and Dr. Robert Haddad, and Lily and Leon Hattab. Memory eternal!

George Sadallah Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of Christopher Athineos, Fr. Michael Ellias, and Deacon Farid Farkouh on their birthdays. Many years! He also prays for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Sebastian Kyle Christian Rothhammer. Memory eternal!

The Family of Patricia Zraick DeLuca offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

The Family of Christ Sparsidis offers Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of his soul. Memory eternal

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 8 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Eduardo Elias Khouzami, Betty Massab, Karime Salloum Matar, Albert Sabah, and Wadia Zain. Memory eternal!

MEMORY ETERNAL! We are deeply saddened to announce that the handmaiden of God Carol Malakie Zogob departed this life last Friday in her home. The family will receive visitors this afternoon from 4-8 PM here in the church, and her funeral will be at 10 AM tomorrow. Interment will follow at Green-Wood Cemetery. We extend our deepest sympathies to her husband Richard and his family and to Malakie’s children Dana and Theodore (Teddy) and their family.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Terry Mackoul (HSS), John Petrick (Norwegian), Joyce Samaha (Sunrise, Mountain Lakes), Alice Farkouh, Robert Ghiz, Charlie Sahadi, Renee Setteducato, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Victoria Sleyman, and Anthony Speer (at home).

FROM THE FATHERS – “Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name.”

- Psalm 103.1

Bulletin for Sunday, May 25, 2025 - Sixth Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of the Blind Man

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard Website: www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY 11209 Church Office: (718) 238-8008

Email: churchsecretary@smaoc.org Rectory: (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ellias, Pastor Rev. Deacon Farid Farkouh

Email: pastor@smaoc.org farkouhfarid@gmail.com

Sunday, May 25, 2025

Sixth Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of the Blind Man and

Third Discovery of the Forerunner’s Honorable Head

Tone 5 and Eothinon 8

Today’s Hymns and Readings

After “Blessed is the Kingdom…”, “Christ is risen…” (3 times)

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

Entrance Hymn – In the gathering places bless ye God the Lord from the springs of Israel. O Son of God, who art risen from the dead, save us, who sing unto Thee. Alleluia!

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 5

Let us believers praise and worship the Word, co-eternal with the Father and the Spirit, born of the Virgin for our salvation. For he took pleasure in ascending the cross in the flesh to suffer death, and to raise the dead by his glorious resurrection.

Apolytikion of the Forerunner’s Head Discovery – Tone 4

Christ God hath revealed to us thy truly venerable head as a divine treasure that had been concealed in the earth, O Prophet and Forerunner. Wherefore, as we gather on the feast of its finding, with our hymns inspired of God, we praise Christ the Savior Who by thy mighty prayers saveth us from every kind of harm.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe. For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

Though thou, O deathless One, didst descend into the grave, thou didst destroy the power of hell and, as Victor, thou didst rise again, O Christ our God. Thou didst greet the ointment bearing women, saying, rejoice! Thou didst bestow peace upon thy Disciples, and resurrection upon those that are fallen.

Epistle – II Corinthians 4:6-15 (Third Discovery of the Head of John the Baptist)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 63.11, 1. The righteous shall rejoice in the Lord.

Verse. O God, hear my cry when I pray to you.

BRETHREN, it is the God Who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” Who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, to show that the transcendent power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. While we live we are always being given up to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So, death is at work in us, but life in you. Since we have the same spirit of faith as he had who wrote, “I believed, and so I spoke,” we too believe, and so we speak, knowing that He who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into His presence. For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.

Gospel – John 9:1-38 (Sunday of the Blind Man)

AT THAT TIME, when Jesus was passing, he saw a man blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in him. I must work the works of him who sent me, while it is day; night comes, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” As he said this, he spat on the ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man’s eyes with the clay, saying to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Silo’am” [which means Sent]. So he went and washed and came back seeing. The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar, said, “Is not this the man who used to sit and beg?” Some said, “It is he”; others said, “No, but he is like him.” He said, “I am the man.” They said to him, “Then how were your eyes opened?” He answered, “The man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes and said to me, ‘Go to Silo’am and wash’; so I went and washed and received my sight.” They said to him, “Where is he?” He said, “I do not know.”

They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. Now it was a Sabbath day when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. The Pharisees again asked him how he had received his sight. And he said to them, “He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and I see.” Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others said, “How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?” There was a division among them. So they again said to the blind man, “What do you say about him, since he has opened your eyes?” He said, “He is a prophet.”

The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight, until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight, and asked them, “Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?” His parents answered, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; but how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age, he will speak for himself.” His parents said this because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if any one should confess him to be Christ, he was to be put out of the synagogue. Therefore, his parents said, “He is of age, ask him.”

So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and said to him, “Give God the praise; we know that this man is a sinner.” He answered, “Whether he is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I know, that though I was blind, now I see.” They said to him, “What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?” He answered them, “I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you too want to become his disciple?” And they reviled him, saying, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he comes from.” The man answered, “Why this is a marvel! You do not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if any one is a worshipper of God and does his will, God listens to him. Never since the world began has it been heard that any one opened the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” They answered him, “You were born in utter sin, and would you teach us?” And they cast him out.

Jesus heard that they had cast him out, and having found him he said, “Do you believe in the Son of God?” He answered, “And who is he, Sir, that I may believe in him?” Jesus said to him, “You have seen him, and it is he who speaks to you.” He said, “Lord, I believe”; and he worshipped him.

MEGALYNARION FOR PASCHA (Tone 1) – Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord hath arisen upon thee; dance now and be glad, O Zion, and do thy exult, O pure Theotokos, in the arising of Him Whom thou didst bear.

COMMUNION HYMN (Tone 8) – Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality.

Next week’s homework: Acts 20:16-18, 28-36 (Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council)

John 17:1-13 (Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council)

POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving. Please reverently hear these prayers before beginning to “chat.”

NO FASTING – Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, May 29. There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 8.

PLEASE MAKE SURE all cell phones and electronic devices are turned off in church or at home.

We are pleased to welcome you to worship with us today. Please note that only Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves with prayer, fasting and a recent confession may approach to receive Holy Communion. Everyone is welcome to receive the blessing and partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal. Please introduce yourself to our pastor during the coffee hour and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

May 25, 2025 – SIXTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA: SUNDAY OF THE BLIND MAN

Mission Statement - The mission of St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, NY, is to love and worship God through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and to live and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission through education, outreach, fellowship, and works of mercy with love for each other, our neighbors, and our diverse world.

CHRIST IS RISEN! TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, MAY 25 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Fares Deban, Alan Fadel, Thomas Gehshan, Archimandrite Agapios Golam, Rose Makhoul, Victoria Makhoul, Victor M. Samra, Jr., Mildred Sarkis, and Adib Zamlout.

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of the servants of God Catherine Meshach and Juan Daniel Marte Valelrio. Many years!

The Kabah Family offers Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a 6-month memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nadia Zaher Kabah. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 1 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Shafica Debagie, George Fattouh, James Vernon Harris, Nicholas Malouf, Wadih Massab, John and Maurice Moussy, Alice Muscat, Khalil Nader, Nicholas Orfaly, Sebastian Rothhammer, Henrietta Shawah, Adolph, Rose and Nicholas Smatt, Christ Sparsidis, Theodore Tadross, and Marianne Trabulsi. Memory eternal!

Leila and Raymond Trabulsi will offer Prayers of Oblation for the health of the servants of God Drs. Edward and Karen Trabulsi and Family, and Michael Trabulsi. Many years! They will also pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Marianne and Victor Trabulsi, Herb and John Trabulsi, Valentine and Baseem Trabulsi, Helen and Dr. Robert Haddad, and Lily and Leon Hattab. Memory eternal!

The Family of Patti Zraick DeLuca will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

The Family of Christ Sparsidis will offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of his soul. Memory eternal

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Terry Mackoul (HSS), John Petrick (Norwegian), Joyce Samaha (Sunrise, Mountain Lakes), Alice Farkouh, Robert Ghiz, Charlie Sahadi, Renee Setteducato, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Victoria Sleyman, and Anthony Speer (at home).

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, May 28, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information. In addition, Our Time sponsors Pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM. All players and spectators are welcome.

FEAST OF THE ASCENSION – We will celebrate a Vesperal Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Ascension on Wednesday, May 28, at 7 PM. Please begin your eucharistic fast after an early lunch.

DID YOU KNOW? It costs $7,178 every week to operate our parish. That number does not include capital expenses like the roof replacement.

ROOF APPEAL – Last week the Parish Council mailed an appeal for the replacement of the church roof. If all of our 300 households contributed approximately $400 each, we would cover the cost. Let’s prayerfully consider our response to this necessary project.

ADULT EDUCATION – This week we will interrupt our study of the Book of Acts and our Catechumen class on Wednesdays in order to celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation with an Evening Divine Liturgy at 7 PM. In addition, there will be a class for catechumens and inquirers at the same time. Instructors for both classes are a mystery!

ON-LINE GIVING – St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online. Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or checking account. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

ESTATE PLANNING – On this last Sunday of the Paschal season we hear about the Blind Man. Let us pray that Jesus Christ will open our eyes so that we can see the benefit and blessing of leaving something to His Holy Church in our wills and estate plans.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, May 28 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Evening Divine Liturgy, 7 PM

Thursday, May 29 Feast of the Ascension

Saturday, May 31 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Games Festival

Monday, June 2 Fundraiser of Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Center

Wednesday, June 4 Bible Study and Catechumen Classes, 7 PM

Sunday, June 8 Holy Pentecost

Monday, June 9 Parish Council, 7 PM

All services will be live streamed via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “It is not one’s own efforts which lead to the goal, because without grace, efforts produce little. Nor does grace without effort bring what is sought, because grace acts in us and for us and through our efforts.”

- St. Theophan the Recluse

CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!

Bulletin for Sunday, May 18, 2025 - Fifth Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of the Samaritan Woman

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard Website: www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY 11209 Church Office: (718) 238-8008

Email: churchsecretary@smaoc.org Rectory: (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ellias, Pastor Rev. Deacon Farid Farkouh

Email: pastor@smaoc.org farkouhfarid@gmail.com

Sunday, May 18, 2025

Fifth Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of the Samaritan Woman

Tone 4 and Eothinon 7

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apostle Karpos of the Seventy

After “Blessed is the Kingdom…”, “Christ is risen…” (3 times)

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

Entrance Hymn – In the gathering places bless ye God the Lord from the springs of Israel. O Son of God, who art risen from the dead, save us, who sing unto Thee. Alleluia!

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 4

Having learned the joyful message of the Resurrection from the angel, the women disciples of the Lord cast from them their parental condemnation, and proudly broke the news to the disciples, saying, Death hath been spoiled. Christ God is risen, granting the world great mercy.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe. For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Apolytikion of Mid-Pentecost – Tone 8

In the midst of this Feast, O Saviour, give thou my thirsty soul to drink of the waters of true worship; for thou didst call out to all, saying, Whosoever is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Wherefore, O Christ our God, Fountain of life, glory to thee.

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

Though thou, O deathless One, didst descend into the grave, thou didst destroy the power of hell and, as Victor, thou didst rise again, O Christ our God. Thou didst greet the ointment bearing women, saying, rejoice! Thou didst bestow peace upon thy Disciples, and resurrection upon those that are fallen.

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 11:19-30 (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 103.24, 1. O Lord, how magnificent are your works. You have made all things in wisdom.

Verse. Bless the Lord, O my soul.

IN THOSE DAYS, those apostles who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to none except Jews. But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Greeks also, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number that believed turned to the Lord. News of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad; and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose; for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a large company was added to the Lord. So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul; and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church, and taught a large company of people; and in Antioch the disciples were for the first time called Christians.

Now in these days prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. And one of them named Agabos stood up and foretold by the Spirit that there would be a great famine over all the world; and this took place in the days of Claudius. And the disciples determined, every one according to his ability, to send relief to the brethren who lived in Judea, and they did so, sending it to the elders by the hand of Barnabas and Saul.

Gospel – John 4:5-42 (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus came to a city of Samaria, called Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and so Jesus, wearied as he was with his journey, sat down beside the well. It was about the sixth hour.

There came a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” For his disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ’Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” The woman said to him, “Sir, you have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep; where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, and his sons, and his cattle?” Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst forever; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.”

Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come here.” The woman answered him, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You are right in saying ’I have no husband’; for you have had five husbands, and he whom you now have is not your husband; this you said truly.” The woman said to him, “Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet. Our fathers worshipped on this mountain; and you say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.” Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for such the Father seeks to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming [he who is called Christ]; when he comes, he will tell us all things.” Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am he.”

Just then his disciples came. They marveled that he was talking with a woman, but none said, “What do you wish?” or, “Why are you talking with her?” So the woman left her water jar, and went away into the city, and said to the people, “Come, see a man who said to me all that I ever did. Can this be the Christ?” They went out of the city and were coming to him.

Meanwhile the disciples besought him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.” But he said to them, “I have food to eat of which you do not know.” So the disciples said to one another, “Has any one brought him food?” Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me, and to accomplish his work. Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see how the fields are already white for harvest. He who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together. For here the saying holds true, ‘One sows and another reaps.’ I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor; others have labored, and you have entered into their labor.”

Many Samaritans from that city believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He said to me all that I ever did.” So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them; and he stayed there two days. And many more believed because of his words. They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of your words that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.”

MEGALYNARION FOR PASCHA (Tone 1) – Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord hath arisen upon thee; dance now and be glad, O Zion, and do thy exult, O pure Theotokos, in the arising of Him Whom thou didst bear.

COMMUNION HYMN (Tone 8) – Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality.

Next week’s homework: II Corinthians 4:6-15 (Finding of the Head of John the Baptist)

John 9:1-38 (Sunday of the Blind Man)

POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving. Please reverently hear these prayers before beginning to “chat.”

NO FASTING – Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, May 29. There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 8.

PLEASE MAKE SURE all cell phones and electronic devices are turned off in church or at home.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

May 18, 2025 – FIFTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA: SUNDAY OF THE SAMARITAN WOMAN

Mission Statement - The mission of St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, NY, is to love and worship God through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and to live and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission through education, outreach, fellowship, and works of mercy with love for each other, our neighbors, and our diverse world.

CHRIST IS RISEN! TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, MAY 18 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Madeleine Abousleman, George M. Alsifi, Lorraine Ghiz, Rose Ghiz, Abraham J. Karkenny, Margaret Kassatly, Valerie J. Konecny, Brian E. Mackoul, Marie and George Saab, Buddy B. Saleeby, Samuel G. Samman, and Gloria Rose Shawah.

Brenda Samman offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God and former Parish Council Chair Samuel G. Samman. Memory eternal!

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Pilar Louapre Garcia. Memory eternal!

The Family of Claudette Teen offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day memorial for the repose of her soul. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 25 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Fares Deban, Alan Fadel, Thomas Gehshan, Archimandrite Agapios Golam, Rose Makhoul, Victoria Makhoul, Victor M. Samra, Jr., Mildred Sarkis, and Adib Zamlout. Memory eternal!

The Kabah Family will offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a 6-month memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nadia Zaher Kabah. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, John Petrick (Norwegian), Joyce Samaha (Sunrise, Mountain Lakes), Alice Farkouh, Renee Setteducato, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, Robert Ghiz, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Charlie Sahadi, Victoria Sleyman, and Anthony Speer (at home).

ROOF APPEAL – This week the Parish Council mailed an appeal for the replacement of the church roof. If all of our 300 households contributed approximately $400 each, we would cover the cost. Let’s prayerfully consider our response to this necessary project.

ADULT EDUCATION – We will continue our study of the Book of Acts on Wednesday at 7 PM. In addition, there will be a class for catechumens and inquirers at the same time. Instructors for both classes are a mystery!

HOME BLESSINGS – Several parishioners have requested spring time blessings of their homes. Please feel free to call for an appointment between now and the Feast of the Ascension (May 29).

PARKING – We know that parking is scarce in the neighborhood, but we respectfully ask that we leave the parking spots in front of the church for those with mobility issues.

ON-LINE GIVING – St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online. Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or checking account. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

DID YOU KNOW? It costs $1,023 every single day to operate our parish. That number does not include capital expenses like the roof replacement.

ESTATE PLANNING – Have I made a bequest in my estate plan for my beloved St. Mary’s Church?

We are pleased to welcome you to worship with us today. Please note that only Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves with prayer, fasting and a recent confession may approach to receive Holy Communion. Everyone is welcome to receive the blessing and partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal. Please introduce yourself to our pastor during the coffee hour and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Tuesday, May 20 1700-Year Anniversary of Council of Nicea, 7:30 PM @

Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Cathedral

Wednesday, May 21 Bible Study and Catechumen Classes, 7:00 PM

Saturday, May 24 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, May 25 Niles Bracy Baptism, 1:00 PM

Wednesday, May 28 Evening Divine Liturgy, 7:00 PM

Thursday, May 29 Feast of the Ascension

Saturday, May 31 PTO Games Festival

All services will be live streamed via twitch.tv/smaoc.

Christ is risen from the dead trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life.

Al Maseeh qam min bain il amwat, wa wati al mawt bil mawt, wa wahabal hiyat lil la dhina fil qoobur.

Christos anesti ek nekron thanato thanaton patisas, kai tis en tis mnimaszi zoin, charisamenos.

“Christ is risen” “Truly/Indeed He is risen!

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!

Bulletin for Sunday, May 11, 2025 - Fourth Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of the Paralytic

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard Website: www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY 11209 Church Office: (718) 238-8008

Email: churchsecretary@smaoc.org Rectory: (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ellias, Pastor Rev. Deacon Farid Farkouh

Email: pastor@smaoc.org farkouhfarid@gmail.com

Sunday, May 11, 2025

Fourth Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of the Paralytic

Tone 3 and Eothinon 5

Cyril and Methodios, Equals-to-the-Apostles and Enlighteners of the Slavs

Today’s Hymns and Readings

After “Blessed is the Kingdom…”, “Christ is risen…” (3 times)

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

Entrance Hymn – In the gathering places bless ye God the Lord from the springs of Israel. O Son of God, who art risen from the dead, save us, who sing unto Thee. Alleluia!

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 3

Let the heavens rejoice and the earth be glad; for the Lord hath done a mighty act with his own arm. He hath trampled down death and become the First-born from the dead. He hath delivered us from the depth of hades, granting the world the Great Mercy.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe. For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

Though thou, O deathless One, didst descend into the grave, thou didst destroy the power of hell and, as Victor, thou didst rise again, O Christ our God. Thou didst greet the ointment bearing women, saying, rejoice! Thou didst bestow peace upon thy Disciples, and resurrection upon those that are fallen.

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 9:32-42 (Sunday of the Paralytic)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 46.6, 1. Sing praises to our God, sing praises.

Verse. Clap your hands, all you nations.

IN THOSE DAYS, as Peter went here and there among them all, he came down also to the saints that lived at Lydda. There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden for eight years and was paralyzed. And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; rise and make your bed.” And immediately he rose. And all the residents of Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord.

Now there was at Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. In those days she fell sick and died; and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him entreating him, “Please come to us without delay.” So Peter rose and went with them. And when he had come, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping, and showing tunics and other garments which Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all outside and knelt down and prayed; then turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, rise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. And he gave her his hand and lifted her up. Then calling the saints and widows he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.

Gospel – John 5:1-15 (Sunday of the Paralytic)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Hebrew called Bethza’tha, which has five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of invalids, blind, lame, paralyzed, waiting for the moving of the water; for an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool, and troubled the water; whoever stepped in first after the troubling of the water was healed of whatever disease he had. One man was there, who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him and knew that he had been lying there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is troubled, and while I am going another steps down before me.” Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your pallet, and walk.” And at once the man was healed, and he took up his pallet and walked.

Now that day was the Sabbath. So the Jews said to the man who was cured, “It is the Sabbath, it is not lawful for you to carry your pallet.” But he answered them, “The man who healed me said to me, ‘Take up your pallet and walk.’” They asked him, “Who is the man who said to you, “take up your pallet, and walk’?” Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, as there was a crowd in the place. Afterward, Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse befall you.” The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him.

MEGALYNARION FOR PASCHA (Tone 1) – Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord hath arisen upon thee; dance now and be glad, O Zion, and do thy exult, O pure Theotokos, in the arising of Him Whom thou didst bear.

COMMUNION HYMN (Tone 8) – Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality.

Next week’s homework: Acts 11:19-30 (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman)

John 4:5-42 (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman)

May 11, 2025 – FOURTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA: SUNDAY OF THE PARALYTIC

We are pleased to welcome you to worship with us today. Please note that only Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves with prayer, fasting and a recent confession may approach to receive Holy Communion. Everyone is welcome to receive the blessing and partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal. Please introduce yourself to our pastor during the coffee hour and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

Mission Statement - The mission of St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, NY, is to love and worship God through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and to live and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission through education, outreach, fellowship, and works of mercy with love for each other, our neighbors, and our diverse world.

CHRIST IS RISEN! TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, MAY 11 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Asma Araman, Michael Davis, William Eyd, Nadra and Hadbo Haddad, Murad Kaidy, Wadea Massab, Yvonne Najjar, Toufic E. Nehme, Ibrahim Makarus Laham, Richard A. Sahadi, Ratiba Sukkarieh, and Careemy and George Zaher.

Angela Athineos offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the health of her husband, the servant of God Christopher Athineos, as well as for Christopher Castley, Sr. and Christopher Castley, Jr., on their name day (May 9). Many years! She also offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Schema Nun Macrina, Chrysoula Photopoulos in the world. Memory eternal!

Nicolas El-Khoury offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of his mother, the handmaiden of God Nour Abouassali El-Khoury. Memory eternal!

The Family of Victor Samaha offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of his soul. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 18 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Madeleine Abousleman, George M. Alsifi, Lorraine Ghiz, Rose Ghiz, Abraham J. Karkenny, Margaret Kassatly, Valerie J. Konecny, Brian E. Mackoul, Marie and George Saab, Buddy B. Saleeby, Samuel G. Samman, and Gloria Rose Shawah. Memory eternal!

The Family of Claudette Teen will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day memorial for the repose of her soul. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, John Petrick (Norwegian), Joyce Samaha (Sunrise, Mountain Lakes), Alice Farkouh, Robert Ghiz, Charlie Sahadi, Renee Setteducato, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, Robert Ghiz, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Charlie Sahadi, Victoria Sleyman, and Anthony Speer (at home).

BIBLE STUDY – Bible Study returns on Wednesdays at 7 PM. We will study the Book of Acts for 5 weeks. (On Wednesday, May 28, there will be a Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Ascension.) Please bring your Orthodox Study Bible, and read chapters 6-10 for this week.

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, May 14, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – The Eastern Dioceses Parish Life Conference will take place June 25-28 at the Antiochian Village. Event registration is now open at https://www.antiochianevents.org/events/diocese-of-new-york-and-charleston-mid-atlantic/registration. Room reservations at the Heritage and Learning Center are available at the same site or by calling the Antiochian Village Front Desk at 724-238-3677 x 300.

ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION – Registration is now open for this year’s Archdiocese Convention in Chicago, IL, July 20-27. Go to AC2025CHICAGO.org for event registration. Make hotel reservations at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago at (847) 696-1234.

PLEASE MAKE SURE all cell phones and electronic devices are turned off in church or at home.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, May 12 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Wednesday, May 14 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Bible Study, 7:00 PM

Friday, May 16 Family Night, 7-9 PM

Saturday, May 17 NO GREAT VESPERS

Tuesday, May 20 1700-Year Anniversary of Council of Nicea, 7:30 PM @

Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Cathedral

Wednesday, May 28 Evening Divine Liturgy for the Ascension, 7:00 PM

All services will be live streamed via twitch.tv/smaoc.

Christ is risen from the dead trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life.

Al Maseeh qam min bain il amwat, wa wati al mawt bil bawt, wa wahabal hiyat lil la dhina fil qoobur.

Christos anesti ek nekron thanato thanaton patisas, kai tis en tis mnimaszi zoin, charisamenos.

“Christ is risen” “Truly/Indeed He is risen!

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for May 4, 2025 - The Holy Myrrh-Bearing Women, Pious Joseph of Arimathaea, and Righteous Nicodemus

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard Website: www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY 11209 Church Office: (718) 238-8008

Email: churchsecretary@smaoc.org Rectory: (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ellias, Pastor Rev. Deacon Farid Farkouh

Email: pastor@smaoc.org farkouhfarid@gmail.com

Sunday, May 4, 2025

Third Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women,

Pious Joseph of Arimathea and Righteous Nicodemus

Tone 2 and Eothinon 4

Today’s Hymns and Readings

After “Blessed is the Kingdom…”, “Christ is risen…” (3 times)

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

Entrance Hymn – In the gathering places bless ye God the Lord from the springs of Israel. O Son of God, who art risen from the dead, save us, who sing unto Thee. Alleluia!

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 2

When thou, O immortal Life, didst humble thyself unto death, then didst thou destroy death by the brightness of thy Godhead; and when thou didst raise the bowels of the earth, then all the heavenly powers exclaimed, O Christ, thou art the Giver of life! Glory to thee, O our God!

Apolytikion of the Pious Joseph and the Myrrh Bearing Women – Tone 2

The pious Joseph, having brought down thy pure body from the Tree, wrapped it in fine linen, embalmed it with ointment, provided for it, and laid it in a new tomb. But thou didst rise, after three days, O Lord, granting the world the Great Mercy.

Apolytikion of the Myrrh Bearing Women – Tone 2

Verily, the angel came to the tomb and said to the ointment-bearing women, The ointment is meet for the dead, but Christ is shown to be remote from corruption. But cry ye, the Lord is risen, granting the world the Great Mercy.

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

Though thou, O deathless One, didst descend into the grave, thou didst destroy the power of hell and, as Victor, thou didst rise again, O Christ our God. Thou didst greet the ointment bearing women, saying, rejoice! Thou didst bestow peace upon thy Disciples, and resurrection upon those that are fallen.

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 6:1-7 (Myrrh-Bearing Women)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 117.14, 18. The Lord is my strength and my son.

Verse. The Lord has chastened me sorely.

IN THOSE DAYS, when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists murmured against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the body of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brethren, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochoros, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaos, a proselyte of Antioch. These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands upon them.

And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Gospel – Mark 15:43-16:8 (Myrrh-Bearing Women)

AT THAT TIME, Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself looking for the kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus. And Pilate wondered if he were already dead; and summoning the centurion, he asked him whether Jesus was already dead. And when he learned from the centurion that he was dead, he granted the body to Joseph. And he bought a linen shroud, and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen shroud, and laid him in a tomb which had been hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a stone against the door of the tomb. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where he was laid.

And when the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. And very early on the first day of the week they went to the tomb when the sun had risen. And they were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the door of the tomb?” And looking up, they saw that the stone was rolled back – it was very large.

And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe; and they were amazed. And he said to them, “Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen, he is not here; see the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him, as he told you.” And they went out and fled from the tomb; for trembling and astonishment had come upon them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

MEGALYNARION FOR PASCHA (Tone 1) – The angel cried unto her that is full of grace: O pure Virgin, rejoice, and again I say, rejoice; for thy Son hath arisen from the grave on the third day. Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord hath arisen upon thee; dance now and be glad, O Zion, and do thy exult, O pure Theotokos, in the arising of Him Whom thou didst bear.

COMMUNION HYMN (Tone 8) – Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality.

Next week’s homework: Acts 9:32-42 (Sunday of the Paralytic)

John 5:1-15 (Sunday of the Paralytic)

POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving. Please reverently hear these prayers before beginning to “chat.”

May 4, 2025 – THE HOLY MYRRH-BEARING WOMEN, PIOUS JOSEPH OF ARIMATHAEA, AND RIGHTEOUS NICODEMUS

Mission Statement - The mission of St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, NY, is to love and worship God through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and to live and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission through education, outreach, fellowship, and works of mercy with love for each other, our neighbors, and our diverse world.

CHRIST IS RISEN! TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, MAY 4 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Ateyeh, Nour Abu-Assali El Khoury, Diane Elkas Grinnell, Margaret Hanna, Rose Hanna, Renee Matouk, Viola Mesnooh, Gladys and Theodore Sadaka, Salma Torpey, and Nada Traboulsi.

Rima Al Sifi Hazem offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of the handmaiden of God Maria Simo. Many years!

Malakie and Richard Zogob offer Prayers of Oblation for the health of the servant of God, Parish Council Chair Christopher Athineos. Many years!

Peter Elkas offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his sister, the handmaiden of God Diane Elkas Grinnell. Memory eternal!

Louise Sahadi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her aunt, the handmaiden of God Selma Torpey. Memory eternal!

Anne Mackoul and Family offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Sabry Mackoul. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

Nicolas El-Khoury offers Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of his mother, the handmaiden of God Nour Abouassali El-Khoury. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 11 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Asma Araman, Michael Davis, William Eyd, Nadra and Hadbo Haddad, Murad Kaidy, Wadea Massab, Yvonne Najjar, Toufic E. Nehme, Ibrahim Makarus Laham, Richard A. Sahadi, Ratiba Sukkarieh, and Careemy and George Zaher. Memory eternal!

FASTING DISCIPLINE – Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, May 29. There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 8.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Alice Farkouh (Richmond University, SI), John Petrick (Norwegian), Charlie Sahadi (NYU Langone), Joyce Samaha (Heritage Rehab), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Victoria Sleyman, and Anthony Speer (at home).

MYRRH-BEARING WOMEN – Many thanks to the women, men, boys and girls who lovingly and beautifully adorned the Tomb of Christ and the church for Holy Friday evening: Rima Alsifi Hazem, Sonia Abounaoum, Naziha Aldaia, Jack Alsaifi, Sandra Arida, Angela Athineos, Nahla Bittar, Barbara Deeb, Janice Deeb, Laila Ellias, Marie Ellias, Arabella Kitchen, Dianna Russo Kitchen, Nahla Laham, Therese Maalouf, Asber Noma, Christina Noma, Easa Noma, Christina Noma, Alice Regnier, Isaac Regnier Susanna Regnier, Karen Spolar, Paula Spolar, Irene Vivcharyk, and Renna Yazji.

CHOIR, CHANTERS AND READERS – Many thanks to Sandra Arida and our dedicated choir for their inspirational singing throughout Great Lent and Holy Week. We also thank the chanters and readers who served so faithfully and beautifully: Sonia Abounaoum, Lara Rustom Al-Laham, Chris Castley, Christopher Castley, Laila Ellias, Wilson Haddad, Asber Noma, Christina Noma, Isaac Regnier, Michael Regnier, Susana Regnier, Irene Tashji, George Trisciuzzi, Andrea Zrake, Christina Zrake, and Anthony Zrake.

EASTER OFFERINGS AND EASTER FLOWERS – We thank and acknowledge everyone who donated toward the flowers and other necessities for the Paschal season: Rose Abdallah, Sonia and Henry Abou Naoum, Naziha and Bassam Aldaia, Eugene Arida, Sandra Arida, Majed Atalla, Angela and Christopher Athineos, Joan Bacon, Timothy Bittar, Marie Bryant, Claudette Budai, Rhonda Byrnes, Katherine and Hassan Dagher, Barbara Deeb, Janice Deeb, Jordan and Nadine Eisenberg, Gaby and Majdeline Elkhoury, Father Michael and Laila Ellias, Nahla Fattouh, Diana Finger, Gary and Kim Gangone, Josette and John Generale, Frances and Ronald Ghiz, Lara and Henry Hadad, James Harris, Marianne Hindelly, Gloria Jabara, Christine Kaiami, Diana Kaiami, Lina and Samer Kaiami, George Khoury, Victor Khoury, Bassam and Razan Maalouf, George Maalouf, Corrine and Michael Mallia, Camil Malouf, Linda Mantia, Janette Mellor, Kathryn and George Nassoor, Christine Perry, Jackie and William Robinson, Dianna Russo Kitchen, Marian Russo, Charles and Audrey Sahadi, Louise Sahadi, Robert Sahadi, George and Linda Salamy, Catherine and Raymond Saleeby, Roland Salloum, Wanda Salloum, Brenda Samman, Samar and Sam Shahem, Barbara and Dennis Shawah, Tamam Sheheri, Gary Speer, Karen and Tony Tadross, Irene Tashji, Waffa and Milad Tohme, George Trisciuzzi, Marilyn and Michael Tulaney, Miriam Zahka, Diana Zamaria, Gale Zarr, Leen Zgheib, and Malakie and Richard Zogob.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – Please remember to submit your FFHP donations as soon as possible. If writing a check, please make it payable to St. Mary’s Church with FFHP in the memo line.

PALM SUNDAY MA-AMOUL SALE – We thank the faithful ladies who labored so lovingly this Great Lent to provide ma-amoul for our holiday celebrations. The proceeds from this project, will go to International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) for their projects in support of the suffering people of Lebanon and Syria.

ST. NICHOLAS CATHEDRAL MOTHER’S DAY GALA – St. Nicholas Cathedral invites everyone to share their Mother’s Day Gala on Friday, May 9, at Russo’s on the Bay. To reserve please contact Siham Hazim at (347) 232-7542 or Christine Kaba at (646) 388-3679 immediately!

HOME BLESSINGS – Several parishioners have requested spring time blessings of their homes. Please feel free to call for an appointment between now and the Feast of the Ascension (May 29).

ON-LINE GIVING – St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online. Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or checking account. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

PLEASE MAKE SURE all cell phones and electronic devices are turned off in church or at home.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Friday, May 9 St. Nicholas Cathedral Mother’s Day Gala @ Russo’s

Saturday, May 10 NO GREAT VESPERS

Monday, May 12 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Tuesday, May 20 1700-Year Anniversary of Council of Nicea, 7:30 PM @

Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Cathedral

All services will be live streamed via twitch.tv/smaoc.

Christ is risen from the dead trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life.

Al Maseeh qam min bain il amwat, wa wati al mawt bil bawt, wa wahabal hiyat lil la dhina fil qoobur.

Christos anesti ek nekron thanato thanaton patisas, kai tis en tis mnimaszi zoin, charisamenos.

“Christ is risen” “Truly/Indeed He is risen!

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, April 27, 2025 - New Sunday

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard Website: www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY 11209 Church Office: (718) 238-8008

Email: churchsecretary@smaoc.org Rectory: (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Very Rev. Fr. Michael Ellias, Pastor Rev. Deacon Farid Farkouh

Email: pastor@smaoc.org farkouhfarid@gmail.com

Sunday, April 27, 2025

New Sunday or Anti-Pascha

Sunday of Thomas the Apostle, Called “The Twin”

We are pleased to welcome you to worship with us today. Please note that only Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves with prayer, fasting and a recent confession may approach to receive Holy Communion. Everyone is welcome to receive the blessing and partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal. Please introduce yourself to our pastor during the coffee hour and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Entrance Hymn – In the gathering places bless ye God the Lord from the springs of Israel. O Son of God, who art risen from the dead, save us, who sing unto Thee. Alleluia!

Troparion of Holy Pascha – Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life!

Apolytikion of St. Thomas - Tone 7

While the tomb was sealed, thou didst shine forth from it, O Light. While the doors were closed, thou didst come in to thy Disciples, O Christ God, Resurrection of all, renewing in us through them an upright spirit, according to the greatness of thy mercy.

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

Though thou, O deathless One, didst descend into the grave, thou didst destroy the power of hell and, as Victor, thou didst rise again, O Christ our God. Thou didst greet the ointment bearing women, saying, rejoice! Thou didst bestow peace upon thy Disciples, and resurrection upon those that are fallen.

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 5:12-20 (Thomas Sunday)

Prokeimenon. Psalms 146.5; 134.3. Great is our Lord, and great is his power.

Verse. Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good.

IN THOSE DAYS, many signs and wonders were done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon’s Portico. None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high honor. And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women, so that they even carried out the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and pallets, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them. The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all healed.

But the high priest rose up and all who were with him, that is, the party of the Sadducees, and filled with jealousy they arrested the apostles and put them in the common prison. But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out and said, “Go, and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this life.”

Gospel – John 20:19-31 (Thomas Sunday)

ON THE EVENING OF THAT DAY, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.

Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the print of the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in his side, I will not believe.”

Eight days later, his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them, and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put your hand, and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.”

Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name.

Next week’s homework: Acts 6:1-7 (Myrrh-Bearing Women)

Mark 15:43-16:8 (Myrrh-Bearing Women)

POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving. Please reverently hear these prayers before beginning to “chat.”

April 27, 2025 – NEW SUNDAY

Mission Statement - The mission of St. Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church of Brooklyn, NY, is to love and worship God through participation in the liturgical life of the Church, and to live and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We carry out this mission through education, outreach, fellowship, and works of mercy with love for each other, our neighbors, and our diverse world.

CHRIST IS RISEN! TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, APRIL 27 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Mary Ayoub, Helen Cook, James J. Coury, Marie Farkouh, Yvonne and Alexander Hamwi, Albert Hanna, Michael Howie, George Kaiatt, Yvonne Khoury, Edward S. Mackoul, Linda and William Nafash, Yvonne Nicholas, Isaak Powers, Nazira and Gabriel Samen, Mary B. Savarese, Leon Smatt, Marie Louise Tashji, John Wizeman, and Albert G. Zarr!

Sandra Coogan offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her grandmother, the handmaiden of God Mary B. Savarese, on the 30th anniversary of her repose. Memory eternal!

Peter Elkas offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his uncle, the servant of God George Kaiatt. Memory eternal!

Irene Tashji offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her mother, the handmaiden of God Marie Louise Tashji. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 4 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Ateyeh, Nour Abu-Assali El Khoury, Diane Elkas Grinnell, Margaret Hanna, Rose Hanna, Renee Matouk, Viola Mesnooh, Gladys and Theodore Sadaka, Salma Torpey, and Nada Traboulsi. Memory eternal!

Louise Sahadi will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her aunt, the handmaiden of God Selma Torpey. Memory eternal!

Anne Mackoul and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Sabry Mackoul. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

NO FASTING – Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, May 29. There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 8.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Alice Farkouh (Richmond University, SI), John Petrick (Norwegian), Joyce Samaha (Heritage Rehab), Renee Setteducato (Atlantic Rehab, Madison), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Victoria Sleyman, and Anthony Speer (at home).

HOLY BREAD – Diana Zamaria and Family offer the Holy Bread for the month of April for the health of their family and friends and for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. Sam Alexander Zamaria, Helen and Michael Nassoor, and all their departed loved ones. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for April and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – Please remember to submit your FFHP donations as soon as possible. If writing a check, please make it payable to St. Mary’s Church with FFHP in the memo line.

PATRIARCH OFFERING – Our pledge envelopes for the month of April included a pink envelope marked “Patriarch Offering.” Please use this envelope to support the Metropolitan’s annual appeal on behalf of the Patriarch of Antioch, especially in the wake of last year’s earthquake. Our minimum contribution as a parish is $500. If anyone is currently not receiving pledge envelopes, please see Fr. Michael or Parish Council Chair Christopher Athineos or Treasurer Irene Tashji.

MYRRH-BEARING WOMEN – Many thanks to the women, men, boys and girls who lovingly and beautifully adorned the Tomb of Christ and the church for Holy Friday evening: Rima Alsifi Hazem, Sonia Abounaoum, Naziha Aldaia, Jack Alsaifi, Sandra Arida, Angela Athineos, Nahla Bittar, Barbara Deeb, Janice Deeb, Laila Ellias, Marie Ellias, Arabella Kitchen, Dianna Russo Kitchen, Nahla Laham, Therese Maalouf, Asber Noma, Christina Noma, Easa Noma, Christina Noma, Alice Regnier, Isaac Regnier Susanna Regnier, Karen Spolar, Paula Spolar, Irene Vivcharyk, and Renna Yazji.

CHOIR, CHANTERS AND READERS – Many thanks to Sandra Arida and our dedicated choir for their inspirational singing throughout Great Lent and Holy Week. We also thank the chanters and readers who served so faithfully and beautifully: Sonia Abounaoum, Lara Rustom Al-Laham, Chris Castley, Christopher Castley, Laila Ellias, Wilson Haddad, Asber Noma, Christina Noma, Isaac Regnier, Michael Regnier, Susana Regnier, Irene Tashji, George Trisciuzzi, Andrea Zrake, Christina Zrake, and Anthony Zrake.

EASTER OFFERINGS AND EASTER FLOWERS – We thank and acknowledge everyone who donated toward the flowers and other necessities for the Paschal season: Rose Abdallah, Sonia and Henry Abou Naoum, Naziha and Bassam Aldaia, Eugene Arida, Sandra Arida, Majed Atalla, Angela and Christopher Athineos, Joan Bacon, Timothy Bittar, Marie Bryant, Claudette Budai, Rhonda Byrnes, Katherine and Hassan Dagher, Barbara Deeb, Janice Deeb, Jordan and Nadine Eisenberg, Gaby and Majdeline Elkhoury, Father Michael and Laila Ellias, Nahla Fattouh, Diana Finger, Gary and Kim Gangone, Josette and John Generale, Frances and Ronald Ghiz, Lara and Henry Hadad, James Harris, Marianne Hindelly, Gloria Jabara, Christine Kaiami, Diana Kaiami, Lina and Samer Kaiami, George Khoury, Victor Khoury, Bassam and Razan Maalouf, George Maalouf, Corrine and Michael Mallia, Camil Malouf, Linda Mantia, Janette Mellor, Kathryn and George Nassoor, Christine Perry, Jackie and William Robinson, Dianna Russo Kitchen, Marian Russo, Charles and Audrey Sahadi, Louise Sahadi, Robert Sahadi, George and Linda Salamy, Catherine and Raymond Saleeby, Roland Salloum, Wanda Salloum, Brenda Samman, Samar and Sam Shahem, Barbara and Dennis Shawah, Tamam Sheheri, Gary Speer, Karen and Tony Tadross, Irene Tashji, Waffa and Milad Tohme, George Trisciuzzi, Marilyn and Michael Tulaney, Miriam Zahka, Diana Zamaria, Gale Zarr, and Leen Zgheib.

ST. NICHOLAS CATHEDRAL MOTHER’S DAY GALA – St. Nicholas Cathedral invites everyone to share their Mother’s Day Gala on Friday, May 9, at Russo’s on the Bay. To reserve please contact Siham Hazim at (347) 232-7542 or Christine Kaba at (646) 388-3679 immediately!

PALM SUNDAY MA-AMOUL SALE – We thank the faithful ladies who labored so lovingly this Great Lent to provide ma-amoul for our holiday celebrations. The proceeds from this project, will go to International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) for their projects in support of the suffering people of Lebanon and Syria.

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, April 30, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information. In addition, Our Time sponsors Pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM. All players and spectators are welcome.

HOME BLESSINGS – Several parishioners have requested spring time blessings of their homes. Please feel free to call for an appointment between now and the Feast of the Ascension (May 29).

PLEASE MAKE SURE all cell phones and electronic devices are turned off in church or at home.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, April 27 Thomas Sunday

Wednesday, April 30 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Saturday, May 3 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Friday, May 9 St. Nicholas Cathedral Mother’s Day Gala @ Russo’s

Monday, May 12 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Tuesday, May 20 1700-Year Anniversary of Council of Nicea, 7:30 PM @

Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Cathedral

All services will be live streamed via twitch.tv/smaoc.

Christ is risen from the dead trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life.

Al Maseeh qam min bain il amwat, wa wati al mawt bil bawt, wa wahabal hiyat lil la dhina fil qoobur.

Christos anesti ek nekron thanato thanaton patisas, kai tis en tis mnimaszi zoin, charisamenos.

“Christ is risen” “Truly/Indeed He is risen!

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America