Bulletin for Sunday, December 29, 2024 - After-Feast of and Sunday After The Nativity of Christ

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 Most Reverend 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, December 29, 2024

After-Feast of and Sunday after the Nativity of Christ

Tone 2 and Eothinon 5

Commemoration of Joseph the Betrothed, David the Prophet and King,

and James the Brother of God

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 the Nativity of Christ – Tone 4

Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath given rise to the light of knowledge in the world; for they that worshipped the stars did learn therefrom to worship thee, O Sun of justice, and to know that from the east of the Highest thou didst come. O Lord, glory to thee.

Apolytikion of the Sunday after the Nativity of Christ – Tone 2

Proclaim, O Joseph, to David, the grandparent of God, the amazing wonders; for thou hast seen a Virgin great with child; for with the shepherds thou didst give glory, with the Magi thou didst worship, and by the angel it was revealed to thee. Wherefore, plead thou with Christ God to save our souls.

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 Nativity of Christ – Tone 3

Today the Virgin giveth birth to the Transcendent in essence; the earth offereth the cave to the unapproachable One; the angels with the shepherds glorify him; and the Magi with the star travel on their way; for a new child hath been born for our sakes, God before the ages.

Epistle – Galatians 1:11-19 (Sunday after the Nativity of Christ)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 67:35, 26. God is wonderful among his saints.

Verse. Bless God in the congregations.

BRETHREN, I would have you know that the gospel which was preached by me is not man’s gospel. For I did not receive it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it; and I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and had called me through his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia; and again I returned to Damascus.

Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas, and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother.

Gospel – Matthew 2:13-23 (Sunday after the Nativity of Christ)

When the wise men had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him. And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt have I called my son.”

Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, was in a furious rage, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time which he had ascertained from the wise men.

Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: “A voice was heard in Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be consoled, because they were no more.”

But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.” And he rose and took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus reigned over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, “He shall be called a Nazarene.”

Next week’s homework: Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7 (Epiphany - celebrated)

St. Matthew 3:13-17 (Epiphany - celebrated)

DECEMBER 29, 2024 – AFTER-FEAST OF AND SUNDAY AFTER THE NATIVITY OF CHRIST

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.

DECEMBER IS ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH MONTH

TODAY, DECEMBER 29 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Julie Aucar, Rachel Azar, George Couri, Sr., Wade Sahadi, and Victor S. Samara. Memory eternal!

Naziha Mikhael Aldaia offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her departed family members, the servants of God Kazon, Michael, Wajhi, Badie, Helen, Nicola, Samiha, Nada, Shafic, and Theresa. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, January 5 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Fred Arida, Economous Faried Farkouh and Khouryee Wassila Farkouh, Hooda Germack, Mary Hamwi, Maria Hindelly, Robert Malouf, Rose Merhige, Ronald Sadaka, Effie Shraky, Ann Marie Smatt, and Nazli N. and Demetri Zayat. Memory eternal!

Naziha Mikhael Aldaia will offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of her parents, the servants of God Kazon and Michael. Memory eternal!

Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh will offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Economous Faried and Khouryee Wassila Farkouh. Memory eternal!

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.”

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made an offering for the entire year. Many years! Additional donors are welcome for January and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Alice Farkouh (Eger, Staten Island), John Petrick (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, William Robinson, Raymond Saleeby, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

FASTING DISICIPLINE – From December 25 through January 4, there is no fasting.

DECEMBER IS ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH MONTH – Members of the Order will read the epistle and assist the ushering. We ask current members to wear the ribbons or lapel pins. We have lost several members of the Order in the recent past, and we invite new members to step forward to continue this vital ministry. Please see Fr. Michael, any member, or our Order Ambassadors Dianna Russo Kitchen and Marian Russo for more information.

BOB SABBAGH MEMORIAL LOTTERY – Last Sunday we once again held the Little Bit ‘o Luck Drawing, now named in memory of Bob Sabbagh. First, second, and third prizes went to Marian Russo, Wade Saadi, and Dr. Maurice Rafiaa respectively. Congratulations!

WINTER COAT DRIVE –Teen SOYO will continue receiving coats and winter outerwear at least through January. There is a large green box in the vestibule. We will distribute all items to the Pan-Orthodox Holy Cross Outreach Center on 4th Avenue and during the Midnight Run.

SUMMER CAMP – Registration for Summer Camp opens on Sunday, January 5, at 5:00 PM. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish.

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 – As the calendar year nears its end, it’s time to take stock of how the Lord has blessed me. What will I leave to my parish so that those who come after me will share the same and even greater blessings?

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Tuesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Party

Wednesday, January 1 New Year’s Day

Feast of the Circumcision of Christ

Feast of St. Basil the Great

Saturday, January 4 Great Vespers, 4 PM

Sunday, January 5 Great Feast of Epiphany – celebrated

Great Blessing of Water

Monday, January 13 Parish Council, 7 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Christ is Born, glorify Him! Christ hath come from the heavens, receive Him. Christ is on earth, elevate Him. Sing unto the Lord, all the earth; and ye nations, praise him with joy; for He hath been glorified.”

- St. Gregory Nazianzus

Bulletin for December 25, 2024 - The Nativity of our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ

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

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

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

Wednesday, December 25, 2024

The Nativity of Our Lord, God and Savior Christ

The Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great

CHRIST IS BORN! GLORIFY HIM!

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 – From the womb before the morning star have I begotten Thee. The Lord hath sworn, and He will not repent; thou art a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. Save us, O Son of God, Who wast born of a Virgin; who sing the Thee. Alleluia.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 4

Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath given rise to the light of knowledge in the world; for they that worshipped the stars did learn therefrom to worship thee, O Sun of justice, and to know that from the east of the Highest thou didst come. O Lord, glory to thee.

Kontakion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 3

Today the Virgin giveth birth to the Transcendent in essence; the earth offereth the cave to the unapproachable One; the angels with the shepherds glorify him; and the Magi with the star travel on their way; for a new child hath been born for our sakes, God before the ages.

Instead of the Trisagion Hymn (“Holy God…”), “As many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ. Alleluia!”

Epistle – Galatians 4:4-7 (Nativity of Christ)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 65.4, 1. Let all the earth worship and sing to you.

Verse. Shout with joy to God, all the earth.

BRETHREN, when the time had fully come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” So you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son then also an heir of God through Christ.

Gospel – Matthew 2:1-12 (Nativity of Christ)

WHEN JESUS WAS BORN in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the East, and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it is written by the prophet: ‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will govern my people Israel.’”

Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star appeared; and he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” When they had heard the king they went their way; and lo, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy; and going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshipped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.

St. Basil Liturgy Megalynarion – All creation rejoiceth in thee, O thou who art full of grace; the angelic hosts and the race of men. O hallowed temple and spiritual paradise, glory of virgins, of whom God was incarnate and became a little child, even our God who is before all the ages; for he made thy womb a throne, and thy body more spacious than the heavens. All creation rejoiceth in thee, O thou who art full of grace. Glory to thee!.

Instead of “We have seen the true light…” the Apolytikion of the Nativity in Tone 4.

Next week’s homework: Galatians 1:11-19 (Sunday after the Nativity)

Matthew 2:13-23 (Sunday after the Nativity)

DECEMBER 25, 2024 – THE NATIVITY OF OUR LORD, GOD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST

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.

DECEMBER IS ORDER OF ST. IGANTIUS OF ANTIOCH MONTH

CHRIST IS BORN! GLORIFY HIM!

TODAY, DECEMBER 25 - We pray for all the living and departed members of our community.

Marie and Tony Aflak of Mid-East Bakery have donated the Holy Bread of Oblation tonight for the health and safety of their children. Many years!

NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Julie Aucar, Rachel Azar, George Couri, Sr., Wade Sahadi, and Victor S. Samara. Memory eternal!

Our Parish Family will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Hooda Germack as we will do each year on the Sunday closest to her birthday, January 1. Memory eternal!

Naziha Mikhael Aldaia will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her departed family members, the servants of God Kazon, Michael, Wajhi, Badie, Helen, Nicola, Samiha, Nada, Shafic, and Theresa. Memory eternal!

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.”

COFFEE HOUR – There will be no Coffee Hour tonight.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Alice Farkouh (Eger, Staten Island), Gloria Jabara (Cornell), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Marie Bryant, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, William Robinson, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

FASTING DISICIPLINE – There is no fasting from Christmas Day until January 5 which is a strict fast day in anticipation of the Epiphany of Christ.

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CARD – Many thanks to Marian Russo and Audrey Sahadi who once again coordinated our annual Community Christmas Card. We also thank Amanda Alexander Rich who produced the photography of our new iconography and the card layout! Well done, thou good and faithful servants!

DECEMBER IS ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH MONTH – Members of the Order will read the epistle and assist the ushering. We ask current members to wear the ribbons or lapel pins. We have lost several members of the Order in the recent past, and we invite new members to step forward to continue this vital ministry. Please see Fr. Michael, any member, or our Order Ambassadors Dianna Russo Kitchen and Marian Russo for more information.

BOB SABBAGH MEMORIAL LOTTERY – Last Sunday we once again held the Little Bit ‘o Luck Drawing, now named in memory of Bob Sabbagh. First, second, and third prizes went to Marian Russo, Wade Saadi, and Dr. Maurice Rafiaa respectively. Congratulations! We’ll see you all next year!

FEAST OF EPHIPHANY – Because the Great Feast of Epiphany falls on a Monday this year, we will celebrate Festal Orthros and the Divine Liturgy for Epiphany with the Great Blessing of Water next Sunday, January 5. We will begin blessing homes immediately thereafter. Please see Fr. Michael to make an appointment, or submit the form in this bulletin.

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? Today God is giving me the gift of His Son. What can I bequeath to His Body, the Church?

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, December 25 Nativity of Christ (No services)

Tuesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Party

Wednesday, January 1 New Year’s Day

Feast of the Circumcision of Christ

Feast of St. Basil the Great

Saturday, January 4 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Sunday, January 5 Great Feast of Epiphany – celebrated

Great Blessing of Water

Monday, January 13 Parish Council, 7 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “This is the feast we celebrate today, in which God comes to live with human beings, that we may journey toward God, or return…that laying aside the old human being we may be clothed with the new, and that as in Adam we have died so we may live in Christ, born with Christ and crucified with him, buried with him and rising with him.”

- St. Gregory Nazianzus (Oration 38: On the Nativity of Christ)

CHRIST IS BORN! GLORIFY HIM!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, December 22, 2024 - Sunday before the Nativity of Christ (The Genealogy)

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 Most Reverend 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, December 22, 2024

Sunday before the Nativity of Christ (Genealogy)

Tone 1 and Eothinon 4

Great Martyr Anastasia the Deliverer from Potions

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 Forefeast of the Nativity – Tone 4

Make ready, O Bethlehem; for Eden hath been opened for all. Prepare, O Ephratha; for the Tree of life hath blossomed forth in the cave from the Virgin; for her belly did appear as a supersensual paradise in which is planted the divine Plant, whereof eating we shall live and not die as Adam. Verily, Christ shall be born, raising the likeness that fell of old.

Apolytikion of the Sunday before the Nativity – Tone 2

Great are the accomplishments of faith; for the three holy youths rejoiced in the fountain of flames as though at waters of rest. And the Prophet Daniel appeared a shepherd to the lions as though they were sheep. Wherefore, by their pleadings, O Christ God, have mercy upon us.

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 for the Preparation for the Nativity – Tone 3

Today the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth in an ineffable manner to the Word before the ages. Rejoice, therefore, O universe, when thou hearest, and glorify with the angels and shepherds him who shall appear by his own will as a new babe, being God before the ages.

Epistle – Hebrews 11:9-10; 17:23, 32-40 (Sunday before the Nativity of Christ)

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.

BRETHREN, by faith Abraham sojourned in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked forward to the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets – who 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.

Gospel – Matthew 1:1-25 (Sunday of the Genealogy)

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Aram and Aram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, and Jess the father of David the king.

And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, and Solomon the father of Rehoboham, and Rehoboham the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa, and Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amon, and Amon the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon.

And after the deportation to Babylon: Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ.

So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ fourteen generations.

Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel” (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called his name Jesus.

Next week’s homework: Galatians 1:11-19 (Sunday after the Nativity)

Matthew 2:13-23 (Sunday after the Nativity)

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.”

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made an offering for the entire year. Many years! Additional donors are welcome for December and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

DECEMBER IS ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH MONTH – Members of the Order will read the epistle and assist the ushering. We ask current members to wear the ribbons or lapel pins. We have lost several members of the Order in the recent past, and we invite new members to step forward to continue this vital ministry. Please see Fr. Michael, any member, or our Order Ambassadors Dianna Russo Kitchen and Marian Russo for more information.

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

DECEMBER 22, 2024 – SUNDAY BEFORE THE NATIVITY OF CHRIST (THE GENEALOGY)

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, DECEMBER 22 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Evelyn Z. Deschner, Nora and Nicholas Hawa, George Khoury, William S. Schneirla, Jr., Emily and Arthur Swaya, Lily Sydnawey, Mary Traboulcy, George Zain, and Rose Zarr. Memory eternal!

George Khoury, Jr., offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his father, the servant of God George Khoury, Sr. Memory eternal!

The Family of Nadia Zahr Kaba 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, DECEMBER 29 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Julie Aucar, Rachel Azar, George Couri, Sr., Wade Sahadi, and Victor S. Samara. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Alice Farkouh (Eger, Staten Island), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Diana Finger, Gloria Jabara, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, William Robinson, Raymond Saleeby, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES –Teen SOYO is hosting its annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions as soon as possible. Collections will continue at least through January. We will distribute all items to the Pan-Orthodox Holy Cross Outreach Center on 4th Avenue.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Tuesday, December 24 Royal Hours for the Nativity, 9 AM

Festal Orthros, 9 PM

Divine Liturgy for the Nativity, 10 PM

Wednesday, December 25 No Services

Saturday, December 28 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Tuesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Party

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “The Lord was born in a cave to show that the whole world is one dark cave, which He alone can illumine. The Lord was born in Bethlehem – and Bethlehem means ‘the House of Bread’ to show that He is the only Bread of Life worthy of true men.”

- St. Nicholai of Zica

Bulletin for Sunday, December 15, 2024 - Sunday of the Forefathers (Ancestors) of Christ

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 Most Reverend 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, December 15, 2024

Sunday of the Forefathers (Ancestors) of Christ

Tone 8 and Eothinon 3

Hieromartyr Eleutherios, Bishop of Illyria

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 the Forefathers – Tone 2

Thou hast justified by faith the ancient forefathers and through them thou hast gone before and betrothed unto thyself the Church of the Gentiles. Let the saints, therefore, take pride in glory; for from their seed sprouted forth a noble fruit, and she it was who gave birth to thee without seed. Wherefore, by their pleadings, O Christ God, save our souls.

Apolytikion of St. Eleutherios of Illyria – Tone 5

Being comely adorned in thy sacred priestly robes, and newly drenched with the streams of thy pure and sanctified blood, thou didst soar aloft to stand before thy Master, Christ; hence never cease to intercede for those honoring with faith thy mighty and blessed contest, thou overthrower of Satan, O wise and blessed Eleutherios.

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 for the Preparation for the Nativity – Tone 3

Today the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth in an ineffable manner to the Word before the ages. Rejoice, therefore, O universe, when thou hearest, and glorify with the angels and shepherds him who shall appear by his own will as a new babe, being God before the ages.

Epistle – II Timothy 1:8-18 (Hieromartyr Eleutherios, Bishop of Illyria)

Prokeimenon: Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saint.

Verse. What shall we render unto the Lord for all that He hath rendered unto us?

TIMOTHY, my son, do not be ashamed then of testifying to our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel in the power of God, Who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not in virtue of our works but in virtue of his own purpose and the grace which he gave us in Christ Jesus ages ago, and now has manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, Who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. For this gospel I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, and therefore I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know Whom I have believed, and I am sure that He is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me. Follow the pattern of the sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus; guard the truth that has been entrusted to you by the Holy Spirit Who dwells within us. You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, and among them Phygelos and Hermogenes. May the Lord grant mercy to the house hold of Onesiphoros, for he often refreshed me; he was not ashamed of my chains, but when he arrived in Rome, he searched for me eagerly and found me. May the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that Day, and you well know all the service he rendered at Ephesus.

Gospel – Luke 14:16-24 (Sunday of the Forefathers)

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE: “A man once gave a great banquet, and invited many; and at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for all is now ready.’ But, one by one, they all began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it; I pray you, have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them; I pray you, have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ So the servant came and reported this to his master. Then the householder in anger said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and maimed and blind and lame.’ And the servant said, ‘Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’ And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges, and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled. For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet. For many are called, but few are chosen.”

Next week’s homework: Hebrews 11:9-10, 32-40 (Sunday before the Nativity)

Matthew 1:1-25 (Sunday of the Genealogy)

DECEMBER 15, 2024 – SUNDAY OF THE FOREFATHERS (ANCESTORS) OF CHRIST

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, DECEMBER 15 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Alexander Deeb, Anna Ghiz, Gloria Hawaweeny, Nabeeha Klam, Charles Macrina, Edward Mamary, Elizabeth Nader, Louis Savarese, and Najeeb and Eli Zrake. Memory eternal!

Sandra Coogan offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her uncle, the servant of God Louis Savarese. Memory eternal!

The Deeb Family offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Laurice and Alexander Deeb, Mary and Nadim Antaky, and Zakieh and Emile Deeb. Memory eternal!

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of the handmaiden of God Elena Gallo. Many years!

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

NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Evelyn Z. Deschner, Nora and Nicholas Hawa, George Khoury, William S. Schneirla, Jr., Emily and Arthur Swaya, Lily Sydnawey, Mary Traboulcy, George Zain, and Rose Zarr. Memory eternal!

The Family of Nadia Zahr Kaba 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!

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.”

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made an offering for the entire year. Many years! Additional donors are welcome for December and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Rouda Abboud (Staten Island University), Alice Farkouh (Eger, Staten Island), John Petrick (Norwegian), Josette and John Generale, Gloria Jabara, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Marie Bryant, Patti DeLuca, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, William Robinson, Luke Spolar, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

FASTING DISICIPLINE – Until December 19 we observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, oil and their by-products). On Tuesday and Thursday during this time, wine and oil are permitted. Some Orthodox eat fish on all days except Wednesdays and Fridays. From Friday, December 20, through Tuesday, December 24, we follow the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine and oil) with wine and oil permitted on Saturday and Sunday. From December 25 through January 4, there is no fasting.

DECEMBER IS ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH MONTH – Members of the Order will read the epistle and assist the ushering. We ask current members to wear the ribbons or lapel pins. We have lost several members of the Order in the recent past, and we invite new members to step forward to continue this vital ministry. Please see Fr. Michael, any member, or our Order Ambassadors Dianna Russo Kitchen and Marian Russo for more information.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE – Many thanks to the numerous people who supported this year's 35th Christmas Boutique. This includes those who donated, picked up wreaths, made wreath donor cards, hung the wreaths on the church fence in cold, windy conditions, solicited Bay Ridge shopkeepers for donations for the Gift Baskets, collected the 50/50 raffle and wreath donations, set up tables and Santa's workshop, made the church hall look like a winter wonderland, baked at home and after work late into the night, greeted customers and sold at tables, kitchen, and bakery, and then packed and cleaned up and left the church hall spotless. It takes everyone's hard work and dedication to host the Christmas Boutique every year. Even though the Christmas Boutique is sponsored by the Ladies' of St. Mary's, both ladies and men assisted as needed. Besides church parishioners, numerous people from other churches happily joined us in hosting this event. Everyone's efforts and dedication are greatly appreciated. See you at the Christmas Boutique 2025!

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CARD – We congratulate Marian Russo and Audrey Sahadi for once again organizing our Community Christmas Card, and we acknowledge Amanda (Alexander) Rich for her photography of our new iconography and the design of the card. God bless you all!

BIBLE STUDY – Our study of the Gospel of Luke will conclude for the fall on Wednesday on-line only at 7 PM. Use the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

CHRISTMAS GATHERING – Metropolitan SABA and the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch invite everyone to a Christmas Gathering at the Church of the Virgin Mary, 236 Grandview Blvd., Yonkers, on Friday, December 20. Vespers will begin at 6:30 PM followed by dinner, a few remarks, and Christmas caroling. RSVP to theorder@antiochian.org, or call (724) 238-3677 X410.

BOB SABBAGH MEMORIAL LOTTERY - Dianna Russo Kitchen or George Trisciuzzi are managing this year’s annual Little-Bit-o-Luck Lottery in Deacon Farid’s absence. Please see Dianna or George for a ticket.

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES –Teen SOYO has placed two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions as soon as possible. We will distribute all items to the Pan-Orthodox Holy Cross Outreach Center on 4th Avenue.

COLLEGE CONFERENCE – Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) invites all college students and college-aged young adults to the annual College Conference at the Antiochian Village Heritage and Learning Center on December 27-30, 2024. Please go to www.ocf.net/cc24 for more information. Scholarship assistance is available.

HUMANITARIAN APPEAL – The Pastor’s Discretionary Account would welcome donations to assist members of the community who have experienced hardships. The funds will assist with rent, utilities, clothing and household items, especially during the holidays and winter months. Out of respect for privacy, the pastor will make confidential distributions. Please make your tax deductible contributions to St. Mary’s Church with the memo “Pastor’s Discretional Account.” Your assistance with this appeal is a great blessing. Thank you!

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – Even before the Nativity arrives, it is time to begin thinking about Summer Camp! Registration for the Antiochian Village Camp begins on Sunday, January 5, at 5 PM. In order to register, establish an account at www.avcamp.org, or if you already have an account, update all contact information. Space is always limited, so plan to register on January 5.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, December 16 Parish Council, 7 PM

Wednesday, December 18 Bible Study On-Line, 7 PM

Friday, December 20 Archdiocese Christmas Gathering at Yonkers

Midnight Run

Saturday, December 21 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Tuesday, December 24 Royal Hours for the Nativity, 9 AM

Festal Orthros, 9 PM

Divine Liturgy for the Nativity, 10 PM

Wednesday, December 25 No Services

Saturday, December 28 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Tuesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Party

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Let us become like Christ, since Christ became like us. Let us become gods because of Him, since He for us became man. He took upon Himself a low degree that He might give us a higher one. He became poor, that in His poverty we might become rich.”

- St. Gregory of Nazianzus

Bulletin for Sunday, December 8, 2024 - Twenty-Fourth 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 Most Reverend 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, December 8, 2024

Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 7 and Eothinon 2

Forefeast of the Conception of the Theotokos

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

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 7

Thou didst shatter death by thy Cross. Thou didst open paradise to the thief. Thou didst turn the mourning of the ointment-bearing women into joy, and didst bid thine Apostles proclaim a warning that thou hast risen, O Christ, granting to the world thy 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 for the Preparation for the Nativity – Tone 3

Today the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth in an ineffable manner to the Word before the ages. Rejoice, therefore, O universe, when thou hearest, and glorify with the angels and shepherds him who shall appear by his own will as a new babe, being God before the ages.

Epistle – Ephesians 2:14-22 (Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 28.11, 1. The Lord will give strength to his people.

Verse. Bring to the Lord, O sons of God, bring to the Lord honor and glory.

BRETHREN, Christ is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby bringing the hostility to an end. And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; for through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are built into it for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.

Gospel – Luke 13:10-17 (Tenth Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And there was a woman who had had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years; she was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. And when Jesus saw her, he called her and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.” And he laid his hands upon her, and immediately she was made straight, and she praised God. But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be healed and not on the sabbath day.” Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrite! Does not each of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger, and lead it away to water it? And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?” As Jesus said this, all his adversaries were put to shame; and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.

Next week’s homework: II Timothy 1:8-18 (Hieromartyr Eleutherios)

Luke 14:16-24 (Ancestors of Christ)

FASTING DISICIPLINE – On November 15 we began the traditional 40-day Advent Fast in preparation for the Feast of the Nativity of Christ on December 25. The Fast is divided into two periods. The first period is November 15 through December 19 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, oil and their by-products) is observed. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during this time, wine and oil are permitted. On Saturdays and Sundays during this time, fish, wine and oil are permitted. Some Orthodox eat fish on all days except Wednesdays and Fridays. The second period is December 20 through 24 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine and oil) is observed, with wine and oil permitted on Saturday and Sunday. From December 25 through January 4, there is no fasting.

DECEMBER 8, 2024 – TWENTY-FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER 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, DECEMBER 8 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Jean Fadool, Charles Farkouh, Jamiel Howie, Laura Makhoul, Robert Mouracade, Josephine Razook, Nicholas Sabah, Nancy Schmidt, Evelyn Shamoun, Isabel Zrake, and George Zrike. Memory eternal!

Matthew Gregory and Alessandra Grace Ellias offer Prayers of Oblation for the health of their Tata Laila for her birthday this week. Many years!

Barbara Izzard offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Evelyn and Robert Mouracade and Gladys Schroeder. Memory eternal!

Madeline Rosenberger of Overland Park, KS, offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her father and aunt, the servants of God George Zrike and Isabel Zrake. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, December 15 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Alexander Deeb, Anna Ghiz, Gloria Hawaweeny, Nabeeha Klam, Charles Macrina, Edward Mamary, Elizabeth Nader, Louis Savarese, and Najeeb and Eli Zrake. Memory eternal!

Sandra Coogan will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her uncle, the servant of God Louis Savarese. Memory eternal!

The Deeb Family will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Laurice and Alexander Deeb, Mary and Nadim Antaky, and Zakieh and Emile Deeb. Memory eternal!

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

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.”

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made an offering for the entire year. Many years! Additional donors are welcome for December and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

COFFEE HOUR – In the absence of a sponsor for Coffee Hour this week the Parish Council will place a basket on the table for our free will offerings.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Alice Farkouh (Eger, Staten Island), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Marie Bryant, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Diana Finger, Gloria Jabara, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, William Robinson, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

DECEMBER IS ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH MONTH – Members of the Order will read the epistle and assist the ushering. We ask current members to wear the ribbons or lapel pins. We have lost several members of the Order in the recent past, and we invite new members to step forward to continue this vital ministry. Please see Fr. Michael, any member, or our Order Ambassadors Dianna Russo Kitchen and Marian Russo for more information.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE – The Ladies of St. Mary's will conclude their annual Christmas Boutique in Couri Hall after the Divine Liturgy. Items will be sold, and the gift baskets and 50/50 raffles will be drawn. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS to assist packing up after the Boutique.

ADULT FELLOWSHIP – “Our Time” Adult Fellowship will meet this Wednesday, December 11, 1-3 PM. Please call Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616 for more information.

FALL BIBLE STUDY – Our study of the Gospel of Luke will continue on-line only on Wednesday at 7 PM. For remote access use the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

BOB SABBAGH MEMORIAL LOTTERY – Dianna Russo Kitchen and George Trisciuzzi are managing this year’s annual Little-Bit-o-Luck Lottery in Deacon Farid’s absence. Please see Dianna or George for a ticket.

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES –Teen SOYO has placed two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions as soon as possible. We will distribute all items to the Pan-Orthodox Holy Cross Outreach Center on 4th Avenue.

NARROWS COMMUNITY THEATER – Our own Connor Mayrose and Susanna Regnier will appear in the Narrows Community Theater production of “The Best Christmas Pageant” today at 2 PM at the Fort Hamilton Army Base Theater. Go to www.nctheaterny.com and use the code “cheerio” for tickets and information.

CHOIR CHRISTMAS PROGRAM – St. Mary’s Choir will offer its annual Christmas Concert and Parish Sing-Along next Sunday, December 15, immediately following the Divine Liturgy. Everyone is welcome. Word sheets will be provided!

CHRISTMAS GATHERING – Metropolitan SABA and the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch invite everyone to a Christmas Gathering at the Church of the Virgin Mary, 236 Grandview Blvd., Yonkers, on Friday, December 20. Vespers will begin at 6:30 PM followed by dinner, a few remarks, and Christmas caroling. RSVP to theorder@antiochian.org, or call (724) 238-3677 X410 before December 13.

COLLEGE CONFERENCE – Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) invites all college students and college-aged young adults to the annual College Conference at the Antiochian Village Heritage and Learning Center on December 27-30, 2024. Please go to www.ocf.net/cc24 for more information. Scholarship assistance is available.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY – Make your reservations now for our New Year’s Eve Party in Couri Hall. Call or text Sam Maalouf at (718) 288-7677, or text Terize Khouri at (347) 432-1859.

HUMANITARIAN APPEAL – The Pastor’s Discretionary Account would welcome donations to assist members of the community who have experienced hardships. The funds will assist with rent, utilities, clothing and household items, especially during the holidays and winter months. Out of respect for privacy, the pastor will make confidential distributions. Please make your tax deductible contributions to St. Mary’s Church with the memo “Pastor’s Discretional Account.” Your assistance with this appeal is a great blessing. Thank you!

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 – Why should I include St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan? To help secure the church against any unforeseen economic collapse, natural disaster, or political unrest until the Lord returns!

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, December 9 Parish Council, 7 PM

Wednesday, December 11 Our Time Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Bible Study, 7 PM

Saturday, December 14 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Concert at St. Nicholas Cathedral, 7 PM

Friday, December 20 Archdiocese Christmas Gathering in Yonkers

Tuesday, December 24 Royal Hours for the Nativity, 9 AM

Festal Orthros, 9 PM

Divine Liturgy for the Nativity, 10 PM

Wednesday, December 25 No Services

Saturday, December 28 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Tuesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Party

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Since salvation comes to you as a free gift, give thanks to God your savior. If you wish to present Him with gifts, gratefully offer from your widowed soul two tiny coins, humility and love, and God will accept these in the treasury of His salvation more gladly than the host of virtues deposited there by others.”

- St. Theognostos

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, December 1, 2024 - Twenty-Third 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, December 1, 2024

Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 6 and Eothinon 1

Holy Prophet Nahum

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

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 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 for the Preparation for the Nativity – Tone 3

Today the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth in an ineffable manner to the Word before the ages. Rejoice, therefore, O universe, when thou hearest, and glorify with the angels and shepherds him who shall appear by his own will as a new babe, being God before the ages.

Epistle – Ephesians 2:4-10 (Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 27.9, 1. O Lord, save your people and bless your inheritance.

Verse. To you, O Lord, have I cried, O my God.

BRETHREN, God who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with him, and made us sit with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God – not because of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Gospel – Luke 18:35-43 (Fourteenth Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, when Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped, and commanded him to be brought to him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me receive my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.’ And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God.

Next week’s homework: Ephesians 2:14-22 (Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost)

Luke 13:10-17 (Tenth Sunday of Luke)

FASTING DISICIPLINE – On November 15 we began the traditional 40-day Advent Fast in preparation for the Feast of the Nativity of Christ on December 25. The Fast is divided into two periods. The first period is November 15 through December 19 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, oil and their by-products) is observed. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during this time, wine and oil are permitted. On Saturdays and Sundays during this time, fish, wine and oil are permitted. Some Orthodox eat fish on all days except Wednesdays and Fridays. The second period is December 20 through 24 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine and oil) is observed, with wine and oil permitted on Saturday and Sunday. From December 25 through January 4, there is no fasting.

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.”

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made an offering for the entire year. Many years! Additional donors are welcome for December and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

DECEMBER 1, 2024 – TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY AFTER 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, DECEMBER 1 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nellie and George Ellien, Very Rev. Abdallah Khoury, Lian Massab, Pauline Nehme, Herta Schroers, Edith Shagoury, Marianne Trabulsi, and Virgina Zarr. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, December 8 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Jean Fadool, Charles Farkouh, Jamiel Howie, Laura Makhoul, Robert Mouracade, Josephine Razook, Nicholas Sabah, Nancy Schmidt, Evelyn Shamoun, Isabel Zrake, and George Zrike. Memory eternal

DECEMBER IS ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH MONTH – Members of the Order will read the epistle and assist the ushers. We ask current members to wear their ribbons or lapel pins. We have lost several members of the Order in the recent past, and we invite new members to step forward to continue this vital ministry. Please see Fr. Michael, any member, or our Order Ambassadors Dianna Russo Kitchen and Marian Russo for more information.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Alice Farkouh (Eger, Staten Island), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

FALL BIBLE STUDY – Our study of the Gospel of Luke will resume on Wednesday, December 4, at 7 PM. For remote access use the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES –Teen SOYO has placed two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions between now and December 10. We will distribute all items to the Pan-Orthodox Holy Cross Outreach Center on 4th Avenue.

LITTLE-BIT-O-LUCK– Dianna Russo Kitchen or George Trisciuzzi are managing this year’s annual Little-Bit-o-Luck Lottery in Deacon Farid’s absence. Please see Dianna or George for a ticket.

CHOIR CHRISTMAS PROGRAM – St. Mary’s Choir will offer its annual Christmas Sing and Parish Sing-Along on Sunday, December 15, immediately following the Divine Liturgy. Everyone is welcome. Word sheets will be provided!

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE – The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique in Couri Hall on Saturday, December 7, from 9:30 AM to 4 PM, and on Sunday, December 8 after church. Items will be sold and the gift baskets and 50/50 raffles will be drawn. We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year, we are accepting donations of china, elegant glassware, collectibles and new items. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 8 to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771-2427 if you are available to help or have any questions.

NARROWS COMMUNITY THEATER – Our own Connor Mayrose and Susanna Regnier will appear in the Narrows Community Theater production of “The Best Christmas Pageant” December 6 (7 PM), 7 (2 PM and 7 PM), and 8 (2 PM) at the Fort Hamilton Army Base Theater. Go to www.nctheaterny.com and use the code “cheerio” for tickets and information.

CHRISTMAS GATHERING – Metropolitan SABA and the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch invite everyone to a Christmas Gathering at the Church of the Virgin Mary, 236 Grandview Blvd., Yonkers, on Friday, December 20. Vespers will begin at 6:30 PM followed by dinner, a few remarks, and Christmas caroling. RSVP to theorder@antiochian.org, or call (724) 238-3677 X410 before December 13.

COLLEGE CONFERENCE – Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) invites all college students and college-aged young adults to the annual College Conference at the Antiochian Village Heritage and Learning Center in Ligonier, PA, December 27-30, 2024. Please go to www.ocf.net/cc24 for more information. Scholarship assistance is available.

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 – Why should I include St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan? So that I can express to my children and grandchildren what the Church means to me!

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, December 5 Boutique Set-Up

Friday, December 6 Boutique Set-up

Saturday, December 7 Ladies’ Christmas Boutique, 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM

Great Vespers, 5 PM

Monday, December 9 Parish Council, 7 PM

Sunday, December 15 Choir Christmas Program

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “All Christians, clergy, laity, and monks, when rising from sleep must first think of and remember Christ.”

- St. Paisius Velichkovsky

Bulletin for Sunday, November 24, 2024 - Twenty-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, November 24, 2024

Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 5 and Eothinon 11

After-Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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 Entrance of the Theotokos in the Temple – Tone 4

Today the Virgin is the foreshadowing of the pleasure of God, and the beginning of the preaching of the salvation of mankind. Thou hast appeared in the Temple of God openly and hast gone before, preaching Christ to all. Let us shout with one thrilling voice, saying, Rejoice, O thou who art the fulfillment of the Creator’s dispensation.

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 Entrance of the Theotokos in the Temple – Tone 4

The all-pure temple of the Saviour, the most precious bridal-chamber and Virgin, the treasure-house of the glory of God, today entered the Temple of the Lord, bringing with her the grace which is in the divine Spirit: whom also the angels of God do celebrate in song; for she is the heavenly tabernacle.

Epistle – Galatians 6:11-18 (Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 11.7, 1. You, O Lord, shall keep us and preserve us.

Verse. Save me, O Lord, for the godly man has failed.

BRETHREN, see with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that would compel you to be circumcised, and not only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who receive circumcision do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may glory in your flesh. But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule, upon the Israel of God.

Henceforth let no man trouble me; for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.

Gospel – Luke 18:18-27 (Thirteenth Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, a man came testing Jesus and asking, “Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.’” And the man said, “All these I have observed from my youth.” And when Jesus heard it, he said to him, “One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” But when the man heard this he became sad, for he was very rich. Jesus, seeing him sad, said, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God! For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”

Those who heard it said, “Then who can be saved?” But Jesus said, “What is impossible with men is possible with God.”

Next week’s homework: Ephesians 2:4-10 (Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost)

Luke 18:35-43 (Fourteenth Sunday of Luke)

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.”

FASTING DISICIPLINE – On November 15 we began the traditional 40-day Advent Fast in preparation for the Feast of the Nativity of Christ on December 25. The Fast is divided into two periods. The first period is November 15 through December 19 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, oil and their by-products) is observed. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during this time, wine and oil are permitted. On Saturdays and Sundays during this time, fish, wine and oil are permitted. Some Orthodox eat fish on all days except Wednesdays and Fridays. The second period is December 20 through 24 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine and oil) is observed, with wine and oil permitted on Saturday and Sunday. From December 25 through January 4, there is no fasting.

NOVEMBER 24, 2024 – TWENTY-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, NOVEMBER 24 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Paul Dib, Albert Ganim, Antonia Khoury, Zakia Tannous Khoury, Edward Sarkis, Freda and Melkon Sayegh, Gladys Schroeder, and Souhaila Jada Sciacchitano. Memory eternal!

The Family of Albert Ganim offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of his soul. Memory eternal!

Marie Bryant and Family offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Zakia T. Khoury. Memory eternal!

George Khoury offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his mother, the handmaiden of God Antonia Khoury. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, December 1 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nellie and George Ellien, Very Rev. Abdallah Khoury, Lian Massab, Pauline Nehme, Herta Schroers, Edith Shagoury, Marianne Trabulsi, and Virgina Zarr. Memory eternal!

HOLY BREAD – The Zarr Family will offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of November in loving memory of their dearly departed family members: George Zarr, Marie Zarr, Rose Zarr, Gregory Zarr, Gail Hall Zarr, Dolores Marinacci and Nazeer Almumen. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for November and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Alice Farkouh (Eger, Staten Island), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Raymond Saleeby, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

FALL BIBLE STUDY – There will be no Bible Study this week. We will resume on Wednesday, December 4, at 7 PM.

LOTTERY – Dianna Russo Kitchen or George Trisciuzzi are managing this year’s annual Little-Bit-o-Luck Lottery in Deacon Farid’s absence. Please see Dianna or George to reserve your ticket.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES –Teen SOYO has begun their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions between now and December 10. We will distribute all items to the Pan-Orthodox Holy Cross Outreach Center on 4th Avenue.

IOCC SUNDAY – Our November pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for “International Orthodox Christian Charities” dated November 24. We annually receive this collection on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Our faithful can either drop their envelope in the collection tray or return it to the church office. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes, please inform the church office so that we can add you to our list of supporters. Thank you for your support of IOCC.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE – The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique in Couri Hall on Saturday, December 7, from 9:30 AM to 4 PM, and on Sunday, December 8 after church. Items will be sold and the gift baskets and 50/50 raffles will be drawn. We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year, we are accepting donations of china, elegant glassware, collectibles and new items. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 8 to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771-2427 if you are available to help or have any questions.

NARROWS COMMUNITY THEATER – Our own Connor Mayrose and Susanna Regnier will appear in the Narrows Community Theater production of “The Best Christmas Pageant” December 6 (7 PM), 7 (2 PM and 7 PM), and 8 (2 PM) at the Fort Hamilton Army Base Theater. Go to www.nctheaterny.com and use the code “cheerio” for tickets and information.

CHRISTMAS GATHERING – Metropolitan SABA and the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch invite everyone to a Christmas Gathering at the Church of the Virgin Mary, 236 Grandview Blvd., Yonkers, on Friday, December 20. Vespers will begin at 6:30 PM followed by dinner, a few remarks, and Christmas caroling. RSVP to theorder@antiochian.org, or call (724) 238-3677 X410 before December 13.

COLLEGE CONFERENCE – Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) invites all college-aged young adults to the annual College Conference at the Antiochian Village Heritage and Learning Center on December 27-30, 2024. Please go to www.ocf.net/cc24 for more information. Scholarship assistance is available.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, November 30 No Great Vespers

Wednesday, December 4 Bible Study, 7 PM

Thursday, December 5 Boutique Set-Up

Friday, December 6 Boutique Set-up

Saturday, December 7 Ladies’ Christmas Boutique, 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM

Great Vespers, 5 PM

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

Bulletin for Sunday, November 17, 2024 - Twenty-First 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, November 17, 2024

Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 4 and Eothinon 10

Gregory the Wonderworker, Bishop of Neo-Caesarea

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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 St. Gregory of Neo-Caesarea – Tone 8

By vigilance in prayer, and continuance in the working of wonders, thou didst acquire thine achievements as a surname; wherefore, intercede with Christ our God, O Father Gregory, to enlighten our souls, lest we sleep in sin unto death.

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 Entrance of the Theotokos in the Temple – Tone 4

The all-pure temple of the Saviour, the most precious bridal-chamber and Virgin, the treasure-house of the glory of God, today entered the Temple of the Lord, bringing with her the grace which is in the divine Spirit: whom also the angels of God do celebrate in song; for she is the heavenly tabernacle.

Epistle – Galatians 2:16-20 (Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost)

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.

BRETHREN, you know that a man is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ, and not by works of the law, because by works of the law shall no one be justified. But if, in our endeavor to be justified in Christ, we ourselves were found to be sinners, is Christ then an agent of sin? Certainly not! But if I build up again those things which I tore down, then I prove myself a transgressor. For I through the law died to the law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Gospel – Luke 12:16-21 (Ninth Sunday of Luke)

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE: “The land of a rich man brought forth plentifully; and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns, and build larger ones; and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you; and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”

As he said this, Jesus called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

Next week’s homework: Galatians 6:11-18 (Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost)

Luke 18:18-27 (Thirteenth Sunday of Luke)

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.”

FASTING DISICIPLINE – On November 15 we began the traditional 40-day Advent Fast in preparation for the Feast of the Nativity of Christ on December 25. The Fast is divided into two periods. The first period is November 15 through December 19 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, oil and their by-products) is observed. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during this time, wine and oil are permitted. On Saturdays and Sundays during this time, fish, wine and oil are permitted. Some Orthodox eat fish on all days except Wednesdays and Fridays. The second period is December 20 through 24 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine and oil) is observed, with wine and oil permitted on Saturday and Sunday. From December 25 through January 4, there is no fasting.

HOLY BREAD – The Zarr Family will offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of November in loving memory of their dearly departed family members: George Zarr, Marie Zarr, Rose Zarr, Gregory Zarr, Gail Hall Zarr, Dolores Marinacci and Nazeer Almumen. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for November and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

NOVEMBER 17, 2024 – TWENTY-FIRST 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, NOVEMBER 17 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Claire Banat, Paul Dib, Edward Richard Eadeh, Alice Elkas, Robert A. Forcina, Charlene Alekel Goldrick, George R. Haddad, Robert E. Mackoul, Aziz Malika, George Malouf, Moufid Taweel, and Gregory Zarr. Memory eternal!

Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the servants of God Loulou and George Malouf. Memory eternal!

Peter Elkas offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Alice Elkas. Memory eternal!

Carol Furer offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her father, the servant of God Paul T. Dib. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Ganim, Antonia Khoury, Zakia Tannous Khoury, Edward Sarkis, Freda and Melkon Sayegh, Gladys Schroeder, and Souhaila Jada Sciacchitano. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Alice Farkouh (Egers, Staten Island), Raymond Saleeby (Morristown), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

FEAST OF THE ENTRANCE OF THE THEOTOKOS – We will celebrate Festal Orthros at 7 PM and the Divine Liturgy at 8 PM on Wednesday, November 20, in anticipation of the Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple. Please begin your Eucharistic fast after an early and light lunch.

FALL BIBLE STUDY – There will be no Bible Study this week because of the services for the Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos nor next week due to Thanksgiving.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, November 20. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

HURRICANE AND LEBANON RELIEF – In response to the appeals of Metropolitan SABA we continue to receive offerings in support of our churches and people who sustained losses during the recent hurricanes and in support of the suffering people of Lebanon. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “hurricane” or “Lebanon” in the memo line.

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES –Teen SOYO has placed two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions between now and December 10. We will distribute all items to the Pan-Orthodox Holy Cross Outreach Center on 4th Avenue.

IOCC SUNDAY – Our November pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for “International Orthodox Christian Charities” dated November 24. We annually receive this collection on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Our faithful can either drop their envelope in the collection tray on Sundays or return it to the church office. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes, please inform the church office so that we can add you to our list of supporters. Thank you for your support of IOCC.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE – The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique in Couri Hall on Saturday, December 7, from 9:30 AM to 4 PM, and on Sunday, December 8 after church. Items will be sold and the gift baskets and 50/50 raffles will be drawn. We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year, we are accepting donations of china, elegant glassware, collectibles and new items. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 8 to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771-2427 if you are available to help or have any questions.

LOTTERY – Dianna Russo Kitchen or George Trisciuzzi are managing this year’s annual Little-Bit-o-Luck Lottery in Deacon Farid’s absence. Please see Dianna or George to reserve your ticket.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, November 18 Parish Council, 7 PM

Wednesday, November 20 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Festal Orthros, 7 PM, Divine Liturgy, 8 PM

Thursday, November 21 Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos

Saturday, November 23 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Sunday, November 24 IOCC Sunday

Saturday, November 30 No Great Vespers

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Cheerfulness consists in not regarding things as our own, but as entrusted to us by God for the benefit of our fellow servants. It consists in scattering them abroad generously with joy and magnanimity, not reluctantly or under compulsion.”

- St. Symeon the New Theologian

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, November 10, 2024 - Twentieth 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, November 10, 2024

Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 3 and Eothinon 9

Apostles Olympas, Rodion, Sosipater, Tertios, Erastos and Quartos of the Seventy

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

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 the Entrance of the Theotokos in the Temple – Tone 4

The all-pure temple of the Saviour, the most precious bridal-chamber and Virgin, the treasure-house of the glory of God, today entered the Temple of the Lord, bringing with her the grace which is in the divine Spirit: whom also the angels of God do celebrate in song; for she is the heavenly tabernacle.

Epistle – Galatians 1:11-19 (Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

Verse. Clap your hands, all you nations.

BRETHREN, I would have you know that the gospel which was preached by me is not man’s gospel. For I did not receive it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it; and I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and had called me through his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia; and again I returned to Damascus.

Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas, and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother.

Gospel – Luke 10:25-37 (Eighth Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, a lawyer stood up to put Jesus to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “What is written in the law? How do you read?” And the lawyer answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” And Jesus said to him, “You have answered right; do this, and you will live.”

But the lawyer, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion, and went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; then he set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, “Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ Which of these three, do you think, proved neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” The lawyer said, “The one who showed mercy on him.” And Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

Next week’s homework: Galatians 2:16-20 (Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost)

Luke 12:16-21 (Ninth Sunday of Luke)

HOLY BREAD – The Zarr Family will offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of November in loving memory of their dearly departed family members: George Zarr, Marie Zarr, Rose Zarr, Gregory Zarr, Gail Hall Zarr, Dolores Marinacci and Nazeer Almumen. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for November and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

NOVEMBER 10, 2024 – TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER 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, NOVEMBER 10 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Michele Ateyeh, John L. Boojamra, Leila Dahdouh, Rashida Marie Haddad, Wajiba Kaba, Victoria Khoury, Dorothy Madey, George Massabni, Gabriella R. Sadaka, and Nicholas Sahadi. Memory eternal!

The Friends of Michele Ateyeh offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of her soul. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Claire Banat, Paul Dib, Edward Richard Eadeh, Alice Elkas, Robert A. Forcina, Charlene Alekel Goldrick, George R. Haddad, Robert E. Mackoul, Aziz Malika, George Malouf, Moufid Taweel, and Gregory Zarr. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

FASTING DISICIPLINE – On November 15 we begin the traditional 40-day Advent Fast in preparation for the Feast of the Nativity of Christ on December 25. The Fast is divided into two periods. The first period is November 15 through December 19 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, oil and their by-products) is observed. On Tuesdays and Thursdays during this time, wine and oil are permitted. On Saturdays and Sundays during this time, fish, wine and oil are permitted. Some Orthodox eat fish on all days except Wednesdays and Fridays. The second period is December 20 through 24 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine and oil) is observed, with wine and oil permitted on Saturday and Sunday. From December 25 through January 4, there is no fasting.

MEMORY ETERNAL! We are saddened to announce that the handmaiden of God Rose Zrake departed this life in the hope of the Resurrection last Sunday. Her funeral was from St. Mary’s Church on Thursday. We extend our deepest sympathies to her brother Larry and to all of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Memory eternal!

HARVEST LUNCHEON - The Parish Council invites the parish family to the Fall Harvest Luncheon following the Divine Liturgy.

FAMILY NIGHT AND MIDNIGHT RUN – There will be a Family Night this Friday from 7-9, and Marwan Al-Laham and Sam Maalouf will lead our delegation on the Midnight Run into Manhattan to minister to the homeless and immigrant communities.

IOCC SUNDAY – Our November pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for “International Orthodox Christian Charities” dated November 24. We annually receive this collection on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Our faithful can either drop their envelope in the collection tray on Sundays or return it to the church office. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes, please inform the church office so that we can add you to our list of supporters. Thank you for your support of IOCC.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, November 20. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

BIBLE STUDY – We continue our Bible Study at 7 PM on Wednesdays. We will study the Gospel of Luke. We will use the Orthodox Study Bible. For remote access use the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

PET BLESSING – Teen SOYO will host their annual Pet Blessing this Saturday, November 16, at 2 PM on the Ridge Boulevard lawn. See the flyer in this week’s bulletin for more information.

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES – Next week Teen SOYO will place two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions before December 17. We will distribute all items to the Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Center.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE – The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique in Couri Hall on Saturday, December 7, from 9:30 AM to 4 PM, and on Sunday, December 8 after church. Items will be sold and the gift baskets and 50/50 raffles will be drawn. We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year, we are accepting donations of china, elegant glassware, collectibles and new items. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 8 to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771-2427 if you are available to help or have any questions.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, November 10 Fall Harvest Luncheon

Allaham Baptism, 4:30 PM

Wednesday, November 13 Bible Study, 7 PM

Friday, November 15 Advent Fast Begins

Family Night, 7-9 PM

Midnight Run

Saturday, November 16 Pet Blessing, 2 PM

Great Vespers, 5 PM

Monday, November 18 Parish Council, 7 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Let our enemy too understand that we have taken much pains, in order to do what is well-pleasing unto God.”

- St. John Chrysostom

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, November 3, 2024 - Nineteenth 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, November 3, 2024

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 2 and Eothinon 8

Martyrs Akepsimas, Joseph and Aeithalas of Persia

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 for the Persian Martyrs – Tone 4

Thy martyrs, O Lord, in their courageous contest for Thee received as the prize the crowns of incorruption and life from Thee, our immortal God. For, since they possessed Thy strength, they cast down the tyrants and wholly destroyed the demons’ strengthless presumption. O Christ God, by their prayers, save our souls, since Thou art merciful.

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 11:31-12:9 (Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

Verse. The Lord has chastened me sorely.

BRETHREN, 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, but 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 – Luke 16:19-31 (Fifth Sunday of Luke)

THE LORD SAID, “There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table; moreover, the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried; and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes, and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus in his bosom. And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy upon me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in anguish in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.’ And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.’ But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if some one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if some one should rise from the dead.’”

Next week’s homework: Galatians 1:11-19 (Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost)

Luke 10:25-37 (Eighth Sunday of Luke)

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.”

NOVEMBER 3, 2024 – NINETEENTH SUNDAY AFTER 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, NOVEMBER 3 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nicholas L. Assatly, Stanley Fadel, Henry Hadad, Assad Hanna, Olga and Salem Jabara, Delores and Paul Jabara, Evelyn Mouracade, Josephine Tadross, and Mary and Richard Zraick. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Michele Ateyeh, John L. Boojamra, Leila Dahdouh, Rashida Marie Haddad, Wajiba Kaba, Victoria Khoury, Dorothy Madey, George Massabni, Gabriella R. Sadaka, and Nicholas Sahadi. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, and Rose Zrake (at home).

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the entire year. Many years! The Zarr Family will offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of November in loving memory of their dearly departed family members: George Zarr, Marie Zarr, Rose Zarr, Gregory Zarr, Gail Hall Zarr, Dolores Marinacci and Nazeer Almumen. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for November and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR NOVEMBER – We observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil, and their by-products) on Wednesdays and Fridays. The fasting period of Advent begins on November 15 and continues until Christmas Day.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesdays, November 6 and 20. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

HURRICANE AND LEBANON RELIEF – In response to the appeals of Metropolitan SABA we continue to receive offerings in support of our churches and people who sustained losses during the recent hurricanes and in support of the suffering people of Lebanon. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “hurricane” or “Lebanon” in the memo line.

HARVEST LUNCHEON - The Parish Council invites the parish family to the Fall Harvest Luncheon on Sunday, November 10, in the church hall following Divine Liturgy. Volunteers are needed to donate either completed theme-based gift baskets or items that can be used to assemble gift baskets for the raffles. Anybody who wishes to donate or donate towards the raffles please see Lorraine Deeb. Nahla Bittar is once again organizing the menu donations, so anyone wishing to contribute a tray, or donate toward any item on the simple preset menu should see Nahla.

FALL BIBLE STUDY – We continue our Bible Study at 7 PM on Wednesdays. We will study the Gospel of Luke. We will use the Orthodox Study Bible which is available from our parish bookstore. Please see Lorraine Deeb to obtain a copy. For remote access use the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE – The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique in Couri Hall on Saturday, December 7, from 9:30 AM to 4 PM, and on Sunday, December 8 after church. Items will be sold and the gift baskets and 50/50 raffles will be drawn. We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year, we are accepting donations of china, elegant glassware, collectibles and new items. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 8 to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771-2427 if you are available to help or have any questions.

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 – Why should I include St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan? To honor my parents who bequeathed me their faith. To provide for the spiritual life of my children in this secular age. To provide a legacy for my grandchildren. To offer a place of refuge for the stranger and seeker.

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.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, November 6 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Bible Study, 7 PM

Saturday, November 9 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Sunday, November 10 Fall Harvest Luncheon

Friday, November 15 Advent Fast Begins

Saturday, November 16 Pet Blessing, 2 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “If the Holy Spirit is peace of soul, as He is said to be, and as He is in reality, and if anger is disturbance of heart, as it actually is and as it is said to be, then nothing so prevents His presence in us as anger.”

- St. John Climacus

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America