February 8, 2026 - Sunday of the Prodigal Son and After-Feast of the Presentation (Meeting) 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 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, February 8, 2026

Sunday of the Prodigal Son and

After-Feast of the Presentation (Meeting) of Christ

Tone 2 and Eothinon 2

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 Presentation of Christ into the Temple – Tone 1

Rejoice, O Virgin Theotokos, full of grace, for from thee arose the Sun of justice, Christ our God, lighting those who are in darkness. Rejoice and be glad, O righteous old man, carrying in thine arms the Deliverer of our souls, who granteth us resurrection.

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 Presentation of Christ in the Temple – Tone 1

Thou, O Christ God, who by thy Birth, didst sanctify the Virgin’s womb, and, as is meet, didst bless Simeon’s arms, and didst also come to save us; preserve thy fold in wars, and confirm them whom thou didst love; for thou alone art the Lover of mankind.

Epistle – I Corinthians 6:12-20 (Prodigal Son)

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

Verse. Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

BRETHREN, “All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be enslaved by anything. “Food is meant for the stomach and the stomach for food” – and God will destroy both one and the other. The body is not meant for immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. And God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power. Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I therefore take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who joins himself to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, “The two shall become one flesh.” But he who is united to the Lord becomes one spirit with him. Shun immorality. Every other sin which a man commits is outside the body; but the immoral man sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body and in your spirit which belong to God.

Gospel – Luke 15:11-32 (Prodigal Son)

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE: “There was a man who had two sons; and the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that falls to me.’ And he divided his living between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took his journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in loose living. And when he had spent everything, a great famine arose in that country, and he began to be in want. So he went and joined himself to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would gladly have fed on the pods that the swine ate; and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me as one of your hired servants.” And he arose and came to his father. But while he was yet at a distance, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to make merry.

Now his elder son was in the field; and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what this meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him safe and sound.’ But the son was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Lo, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command; yet you never gave me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your living with harlots, you killed for him the fatted calf!’ And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to make merry and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost and is found.’”

Next week’s homework: I Corinthians 8:8-9:2 (Meat Fare Sunday)

Matthew 25:31-46 (Last Judgment)

FEBRUARY 8, 2026 – SUNDAY OF THE PRODIGAL SON AND AFTER-FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION (MEETING) 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, FEBRUARY 8 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Elias Darzi, Norman Alfred Galloway, Jacob Khoury, Robert W. Madey, and Louis Sabah. Memory eternal!

Anthony Zrake offers prayers of gratitude for the good health of the shoveling/pushing/rescue team of Connor, Chris and Daria Mayrose, Michael Regnier, Rafi Rezk, the Good Samaritan passing by with a shovel, and Andrea and Christina Zrake. Many thanks, and may God grant you all many years!

Marie Bryant offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Jacob Khoury. Memory eternal!

Marc Galloway offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Norman Alfred Galloway. Memory eternal!

Gloria Madey and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread and the Coffee Hour for the month of February in loving memory of the servant of God Dr. Robert W. Madey. Memory eternal!

Susan Nelson offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Louis Sabah. Memory eternal!

Diana Zamaria and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the good health of Renee Landry, Rafik Mahab, Paul Nassoor, Elizabeth Dare, and Jessica Satnick on their birthdays. Many years!

NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Mary Alexander, George Atallah, David Bittar, George Ganim, Malak Karkenny, Emily Nassour, Alice Puccariella, Alberta Samaha and Michelle Dahdouh Sollano. 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.”

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR FEBRUARY – This week we will fast on Wednesday and Friday. Following Judgment/Meatfare Sunday, February 15, we begin fasting from meat. Following Forgiveness/Cheesefare Sunday on February 22, the totality of the fast of Great Lent begins.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Laurice Ganim (Seagate), John Petrick (Norwegian), Anita and John Eyd, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s will have their first meeting of 2026 today immediately following the Divine Liturgy. All women of the parish are invited and welcome!

SUPER BOWL PARTY – Join us to watch the Super Bowl tonight at 5 PM. $25 for adults and $5 for children. B.Y.O.B. $32 at the door. RSVP to Sam at (718) 288-7677 or Marwan at (347) 400-3633.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, February 11. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

SATURDAY OF THE SOULS – We will celebrate Orthros at 9:30 and the Divine Liturgy at 10:30 AM for the Saturday of the Souls on February 14. Please submit the names of departed loved ones for commemoration in advance of those services.

SUMMER CAMP UPDATE – Registration for Summer Camp at the Antiochian Village opened on February 4 at 8 PM. This date includes registration for campers, CITs, volunteers, and Arch Week applications. Prior to the opening of registration, the Camp will send information on how to set up a new UltraCamp account via email. Please join the Camp’s monthly newsletter -lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/b3jEOvj/avcamp for more information.

WINTER COAT DRIVE –Teen SOYO will continue receiving coats and winter outerwear at least through February. 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.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting will take place on Sunday, March 1, following the Divine Liturgy. Please submit your nominations for the Parish Council to Vice Chair Robert Sabbagh after securing the nominee’s willingness to serve.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

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

Saturday, February 14 Saturday of the Souls Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

Great Vespers, 5 PM

Monday, February 23 Great Lent Begins

Sunday, March 1 Annual Parish Meeting

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

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, February 1, 2026 - Sunday of the Pharisee and Publican and ForeFeast of the Presentation (Meeting) 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 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, February 1, 2026

Sunday of the Pharisee and Publican and

Forefeast of the Presentation (Meeting) of Christ

Tone 1 and Eothinon 1

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 Presentation of Christ into the Temple – Tone 1

The Heavens’ choir looked down from the valuts of the Heavens, and gazing on the earth, they beheld with amazement the First-born of all creation brought forth as a suckling babe to the Temple by a pure and virginal mother; and with us, they now do sing a hymn for the Forefeast, astonished and full of awe.

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 Forefeast of the Presentation – Tone 4

On this day doth Simeon receive with gladness God, the giver of the Law; and he doth cry to Him in fear: Let me depart now, O Master Christ, for I have seen Thee, the glory of Israel.

Epistle – II Timothy 3:10-15 (Pharisee and Publican)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 75.11, 1. Make your vows to the Lord our God and perform them.

Verse. God is known in Judah; his name is great in Israel.

TIMOTHY, my son, you have observed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, my persecutions, my sufferings, what befell me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra, what persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me. Indeed all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men and imposters will go on from bad to worse, deceivers and deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings which are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

Gospel – Luke 18:10-14 (Pharisee and Publican)

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank thee that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Next week’s homework: I Corinthians 6:12-20 (Prodigal Son)

Luke 15:11-32 (Prodigal Son)

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 DISCIPLINE FOR FEBRUARY – This week, the first week of the Triodion is fast free. Next week we will fast on Wednesday and Friday. Following Judgment/Meatfare Sunday, February 15, we begin fasting from meat. Following Forgiveness/Cheesefare Sunday on February 22, the totality of the fast of Great Lent begins.

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

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

FEBRUARY 1, 2026 – SUNDAY OF THE PHARISEE AND PUBLICAN AND FOREFEAST OF THE PRESENTATION (MEETING) OF 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.

TODAY, FEBRUARY 1 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lila Zayat Ara, Emil and Najla Arida, Dr. William and Hend Arida, Louis Assatly, Elaine Ateyeh, Shamseh M. Dalack, Siham Dimalts, Josephine Hadad, Violet Karkenny, Edgar and Victoria Saadi, Yvonne Sahadi, Samuel and Suraya Samaha, William Shamoun, and Gale Hall Zarr. Memory eternal!

Marie Bryant offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her beloved husband, the servant of God Charles Bryant. Memory eternal!

Dr. Kenneth and Jeannie Arida offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. William and Hend Arida. A Coffee Hour in their memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

Gloria Madey and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread and the Coffee Hour for the month of February in loving memory of the servant of God Dr. Robert W. Madey. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Elias Darzi, Norman Alfred Galloway, Jacob Khoury, Robert W. Madey, and Louis Sabah. Memory eternal!

Diana Zamaria and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the good health of Renee Landry, Rafik Mahab, Paul Nassoor, Elizabeth Dare, and Jessica Satnick on their birthdays. Many years!

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the entire year. Many years!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Laurice Ganim (Seagate), John Petrick (Norwegian), Anita and John Eyd, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

SUMMER CAMP UPDATE – Registration for Summer Camp at the Antiochian Village has now moved to February 4 at 8 PM. This date includes registration for campers, CITs, volunteers, and Arch Week applications. Prior to the opening of registration, the Camp will send information on how to set up a new UltraCamp account via email. Please join the Camp’s monthly newsletter -lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/b3jEOvj/avcamp for more information.

WINTER COAT DRIVE – Teen SOYO will continue receiving coats and winter outerwear at least through February. 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.

FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION – Because the Feast of the Presentation of Christ occurs on a Monday this year, and the Church does not interrupt the celebration of the Sunday of the Pharisee and Publican, the Archdiocese has directed us to celebrate Great Vespers this evening at 5 PM.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s will have their first meeting of 2026 on Sunday, February 8, immediately following the Divine Liturgy. All women of the parish are invited and welcome!

SUPER BOWL PARTY – Join us to watch the Super Bowl on Sunday, February 8, at 5 PM. $25 for adults and $5 for children. B.Y.O.B. $32 at the door. RSVP by February 3 to Sam at (718) 288-7677 or Marwan at (347) 400-3633.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, February 11. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting will take place on Sunday, March 1, following the Divine Liturgy. Please submit your nominations for the Parish Council to Vice Chair Robert Sabbagh after securing the nominee’s willingness to serve.

WORD MAGAZINE - If you do not receive The Word magazine at home, the official publication of the archdiocese, email Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc.org. It is free.

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 – How many more Januarys like this will I survive? I better start thinking about my will or estate plan!

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, February 1 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Monday, February 2 Feast of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple

Sunday, February 8 Ladies of St. Mary’s Meeting after the Divine Liturgy

Saturday, February 14 Saturday of the Souls Divine Liturgy

Sunday, March 1 Annual Parish Meeting

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Let us weep, brethren: let our eyes pour out tears before we depart for a place where our tears will burn our bodies.”

- St. Macarius the Great

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, January 25, 2026 - Gregory the Theologian, Archbishop of Constantinople

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, January 25, 2026

Gregory the Theologian, Archbishop of Constantinople

Tone 8 and Eothinon 11

Venerable Demetrios the Sacristan

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 Saint Gregory the Theologian, Archbishop of Constantinople – Tone 1

The pastoral psalter of thy discourse in theology triumphed over the trumpets of orators and overcame it; for having sought the depth of the Spirit, there was vouchsafed to thee also excellence of speech, O Father Gregory. Wherefore, intercede 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 Presentation of Christ in the Temple – Tone 1

Thou, O Christ God, who by thy Birth, didst sanctify the Virgin’s womb, and, as is meet, didst bless Simeon’s arms, and didst also come to save us; preserve thy fold in wars, and confirm them whom thou didst love; for thou alone art the Lover of mankind.

Epistle – Hebrews 7:26-28; 8:1-2 (St. Gregory the Theologian)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 48:3, 1. My mouth shall speak wisdom, and the meditation of my heart shall be understanding.

Verse. Hear this, all you nations.

BRETHREN, it was fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, blameless, unstained, separated from sinners, exalted above the heavens. He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people; he did this once for all when he offered up himself. Indeed, the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever.

Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, a minister in the sanctuary and the true tent which is set up not by man but by the Lord.

Gospel – Luke 19:1-10 (Fifteenth Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Jesus, for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today.” So he made haste and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it they all murmured, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it fourfold.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Next week’s homework: II Timothy 3:10-15 (Pharisee and Publican)

Luke 18:10-14 (Pharisee and Publican)

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 – The Malouf, Nahas and Farkouh Families offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of January for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Issam Abou Nader Malouf. Memory eternal!

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR JANUARY – We have resumed our customary fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays this month.

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

JANUARY 25, 2026 – GREGORY THE THEOLOGIAN, ARCHBISHOP OF CONSTANTINOPLE

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, JANUARY 25 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Charles Eugene Bryant, Najat Cristo, Katherine B. Cury, George Elkas, Claudette Golam, John, Louise, Ned, and Viola Kalesh, Dr. Douglas George Kalesh, Marie Meena, Mitchell Merhige and Phillip Merhige, and Barbara Salamy. Memory eternal!

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

Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of George Takla on his 59th anniversary and of Robert Mackoul on his birthday. Memory eternal!

Hameed Lattouf and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of his mother, the handmaiden of God Nadia Fadar Lattouf. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lila Zayat Ara, Emil and Najla Arida, Dr. William and Hend Arida, Louis Assatly, Elaine Ateyeh, Shamseh M. Dalack, Siham Dimalts, Josephine Hadad, Violet Karkenny, Edgar and Victoria Saadi, Yvonne Sahadi, Samuel and Suraya Samaha, William Shamoun, and Gale Hall Zarr. Memory eternal!

Dr. Kenneth and Jeannie Arida will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. William and Hend Arida. A Coffee Hour in their memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Laurice Ganim (Seagate), John Petrick (Norwegian), Anita and John Eyd, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

WINTER COAT DRIVE –Teen SOYO will continue receiving coats and winter outerwear at least through February. 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 UPDATE – Registration for Summer Camp at the Antiochian Village has now moved to February 4 at 8 PM. This date includes registration for campers, CITs, volunteers, and Arch Week applications. Prior to the opening of registration, the Camp will send information on how to setup a new UltraCamp account via email. Please join the Camp’s monthly newsletter -lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/b3jEOvj/avcamp.

BLESSING OF HOMES – Fr. Michael has begun blessing homes. Please use the form in this bulletin to request a home visit.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s will have their first meeting of 2026 on Sunday, February 8, immediately following the Divine Liturgy. All women of the parish are invited and welcome!

SUPER BOWL PARTY – Join us to watch the Super Bowl on Sunday, February 8, at 5 PM. $25 for adults and $5 for children. B.Y.O.B. $32 at the door. RSVP by February 3 to Sam at (718) 288-7677 or Marwan at (347) 400-3633.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting will take place on Sunday, March 1, following the Divine Liturgy. Please submit your nominations for the Parish Council to Vice Chair Robert Sabbagh after securing the nominee’s willingness to serve.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, January 28. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

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

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

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

Saturday, January 31 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Sunday, February 1 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Monday, February 2 Feast of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple

Sunday, February 8 Ladies of St. Mary’s Meeting after the Divine Liturgy

Super Bowl Party

Monday, February 9 Parish Council, 7 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “God always was, and always is, and always will be. Or rather, God always Is. For Was and Will be are fragments of our time, and of changeable nature, but He is Eternal Being. And this is the Name that He gives to Himself when giving the Oracle to Moses in the Mount. For in Himself He sums up and contains all Being, having neither beginning in the past nor end in the future; like some great Sea of Being, limitless and unbounded, transcending all conception of time and nature, only adumbrated [intimated] by the mind, and that very dimly and scantily.”

- St. Gregory the Theologian

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, January 18, 2026 - Saints Athanasius and Cyril, Patriarchs of Alexandria

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, January 18, 2026

Athanasius and Cyril, Patriarchs of Alexandria

Tone 7 and Eothinon 10

Martyr Theodoula of Anazarbus and Her Companions

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 Saints Athanasius and Cyril of Alexandria – Tone 6

With work of Orthodoxy, ye shone forth and extinguished wicked opinion, becoming triumphant and clothed with victory. And having enriched all with true worship, and adorned the Church with great adornment, ye worthily found Christ God, granting to all, through your prayer, 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 Presentation of Christ in the Temple – Tone 1

Thou, O Christ God, who by thy Birth, didst sanctify the Virgin’s womb, and, as is meet, didst bless Simeon’s arms, and didst also come to save us; preserve thy fold in wars, and confirm them whom thou didst love; for thou alone art the Lover of mankind.

Epistle – Hebrews 13:7-16 (Saints Athanasius and Cyril of Alexandria)

Prokeimenon. 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, remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God; consider the outcome of their life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings; for it is well that the heart be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited their adherents. We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. Therefore let us go forth to him outside the camp and bear the abuse he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city which is to come. Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

Gospel – Luke 17:12-19 (Twelfth Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, as Jesus entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When Jesus saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed.

Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice, and fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then said Jesus, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And Jesus said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”

Next week’s homework: Hebrews 7:26-8:2 (St. Gregory the Theologian)

Luke 19:1-10 (Sunday of Zacchaeus)

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 – The Malouf, Nahas and Farkouh Families offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of January for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Issam Abou Nader Malouf. Memory eternal!

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR JANUARY – We have resumed our customary fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays this month.

JANUARY 18, 2026 – SAINTS ATHANASIUS AND CYRIL, PATRIARCHS OF ALEXANDRIA

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, JANUARY 18 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert G. Absey, Alexander Azar, Rev. Melatios Fiani and Loretta Basile-Matta Fiani, Riad Malouf, Alexander G. Orfaly, Jr., Robert Samara, Renate and George Sheheri, Minas Sparsidis, Edmund Arthur Swaya, and Thomas Anthony Zarr. Memory eternal!

Carol Furer offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her maternal grandparents, the Rev. Melatios and Loretta Basilie-Matta Fiani. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 25 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Charles Eugene Bryant, Najat Cristo, Katherine B. Cury, George Elkas, Claudette Golam, John, Louise, Ned, and Viola Kalesh, Dr. Douglas George Kalesh, Marie Meena, Mitchell Merhige and Phillip Merhige, Victoria and Edgar Saadi, and Barbara Salamy. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Laurice Ganim (Seagate), John Petrick (Norwegian), Anita and John Eyd, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

SUMMER CAMP – Registration for Summer Camp opens Wednesday, January 21, at 8:00 PM. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish.

WINTER COAT DRIVE –Teen SOYO will continue receiving coats and winter outerwear at least through February. 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.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, January 28. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

WORD MAGAZINE - If you do not receive The Word magazine at home, the official publication of the archdiocese, email Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc.org. It is free.

CATECHISM CLASS – Our introductory class for catechumens, inquirers, and anyone else interested in the Orthodox faith will meet on Wednesday, January 21, at 7:30 PM here in the church. For more information, see Fr. Michael or Michael Regnier. All are welcome

PRAYERS FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY – Deacon Farid and Sh. Aline Farkouh will once again sponsor a service of Prayer for Christian Unity following Great Vespers at 5 PM on Saturday, January 24. A Pot Luck Supper will follow the services. All are welcome.

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 – Soon we will be receiving our W-2s and other documents in anticipation of filing our federal and state income taxes. Wouldn’t it be nice to avoid capital gains taxes and to support the church at the same time? Contact the parish office for transfer instructions, and speak with your tax or financial advisor to see what is appropriate for your situation.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, January 21 Catechism Class, 7:30 PM

Saturday, January 24 Andres Bitar Baptism, 10 AM

Great Vespers, 5 PM

Prayers for Christian Unity

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

Friday, January 30 Schmemann Memorial Lecture @ St. Vladimir’s Seminary

Saturday, January 31 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Monday, February 2 Feast of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple

Sunday, February 15 Meat Fare Sunday

Monday, February 23 Great Lent Begins

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “God wants us to become like the angels. The angels only glorify God. This is their prayer, glorification of God and nothing else. The glorification of God is a very subtle matter, it eludes human criteria. We are very material and earth-bound, and for that reason we pray to God in a self-interested manner. We ask Him to order our affairs, to help our businesses do well, to protect our health and to safeguard our children. But we pray in a human way and with self-interest. Doxology is prayer without self-interest. The angels do not pray in order to receive something; they are selfless. God also gave to us the possibility for our prayer to be an unending doxology, an angelic prayer. This is where the great secret lies. When we enter into this prayer, we will glorify God continually, leaving everything to Him, just as our Church prays, ‘We commend our whole life to Christ our God.’ This is the ’higher mathematics’ of our religion!.”

- Elder Porphyrios the Kapsokalyvite

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, January 11, 2026 - Sunday after the Theophany 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 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, January 11, 2026

Sunday after the Theophany of Christ

Tone 6 and Eothinon 9

Theodosios the Great, Head of Monasteries (Cenobiarch)

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 Epiphany – Tone 1

By thy baptism, O Lord, in the River Jordan, worship to the Trinity hath made its appearance; for the voice of the Lord did come forth to thee with the testimony, naming thee His beloved Son; and the Spirit in the likeness of a dove, confirming the truth of the word. Wherefore, O thou who didst appear and lighted the world, O Christ, glory to thee.

Apolytikion of St. Theodosios – Tone 8

The barren wilderness thou didst make fertile with the streams of thy tears; and by thy deep sighing thou hast given fruit through thy struggles a hundredfold. Accordingly, thou hast become a star for the universe, sparkling with miracles. Therefore, O righteous Father Theodosios, intercede 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 Epiphany – Tone 4

Today thou hast appeared to the universe, O Lord, and thy light hath been shed upon us, who praise thee with knowledge, saying, Thou hast come and appeared, O unapproachable Light.

Epistle – Hebrews 13:7-16 (St. Theodosios)

Prokeimenon. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.

Verse. What shall I render to the Lord for all that he has given me?

BRETHREN, remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God; consider the outcome of their life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings; for it is well that the heart be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited their adherents. We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. Therefore let us go forth to him outside the camp and bear the abuse he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city which is to come. Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

Gospel - Matthew 4:12-17 (Sunday after Epiphany)

AT THAT TIME, when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled;

“The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, toward the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles – the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.”

From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Next week’s homework: Hebrews 13:7-16 (Saints Athanasius and Cyril of Alexandria)

Luke 17:12-19 (Twelfth 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 DISCIPLINE FOR JANUARY – We have resumed our customary fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays this month.

JANUARY 11, 2026 – SUNDAY AFTER THE THEOPHANY 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, JANUARY 11 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Eli Abdallah, Nora and Kalil Ballan, Ameenie Freije, Emily and Edward Ghazal, Pauline Haddad, Maria Hindelly, Leila M. Khouri, Edma Saab, Nora Trefz, Emil Tweel, and Nadia Zaher. Memory eternal!

Rose Abdallah offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God Eli Abdallah. Memory eternal!

Naziha Aldaia offers the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of her parents and all of her departed family members. Memory eternal!

Vicky and Jim Tweel offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Emil Tweel. Memory eternal!

Dr. Firas and Teeba Marsheh and Family offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nawal Tayar. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert G. Absey, Alexander Azar, Rev. Melatios Fiani and Loretta Basile-Matta Fiani, Riad Malouf, Alexander G. Orfaly, Jr., Robert Samara, Renate and George Sheheri, Minas Sparsidis, Edmund Arthur Swaya, and Thomas Anthony Zarr. Memory eternal!

Carol Furer will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her maternal grandparents, the Rev. Melatios and Loretta Basilie-Matta Fiani. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Laurice Ganim (Seagate), John Petrick (Norwegian), Anita and John Eyd, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

HOLY BREAD – The Malouf, Nahas and Farkouh Families offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of January for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Issam Abou Nader Malouf. Memory eternal!

SUMMER CAMP – Registration for Summer Camp opens Wednesday, January 21, at 8:00 PM. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish.

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will meet, tomorrow, January 12 at 7 PM.

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.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, January 14. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

WORD MAGAZINE – If you are not receiving The Word magazine, the official publication of the Antiochian Archdiocese, at your home, email Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc.org. It is free.

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 – Parishioners age 70½ and older may be able to support our parish in a tax-efficient way by giving directly from an IRA. A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) can satisfy part or all of your required minimum distribution and may reduce your taxable income. In addition, anyone holding appreciated investments in a taxable brokerage account can donate shares of stock or mutual funds directly to the church, which may help avoid capital gains tax. Contact the parish office for transfer instructions, and speak with your tax or financial advisor to see what is appropriate for your situation.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, January 12 Parish Council, 7 PM

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

Friday, January 16 Family Night and Midnight Run

Saturday, January 17 Retreat @ St. Nicholas Cathedral

Great Vespers, 5 PM

Saturday, January 24 Prayers for Christian Unity following Great Vespers

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “The signs accompanying grace are much joy, peace, love and truth. Such truth impels man to seek truth. But the signs of sin are accompanied by turmoil, not joy and love toward God.”

- St. Macarius the Great

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, January 4, 2026 - Sunday before the Theophany 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 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, January 4, 2026

Sunday before the Theophany of Christ

Tone 5 and Eothinon 8

Synaxis of the Seventy Holy Apostles

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 Sunday before Epiphany – Tone 4

Make ready, O Zebulon, and prepare, O Nephtali, and thou, River Jordan, cease thy flow and receive with joy the Master coming to be baptized. And thou, Adam, rejoice with the first mother and hide not yourselves as ye did of old in paradise; for having seen you naked, he appeared to clothe you with the first robe. Yea, Christ hath appeared desiring to renew the whole creation.

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 Sunday before Epiphany – Tone 4

Today hath the Lord appeared in the courses of the Jordan, crying to John and saying, Be not dismayed at my baptism; for I have verily come to save Adam the first to be created.

Epistle – II Timothy 4:5-8 (Sunday before Epiphany)

Prokeimenon. O Lord, save your people and bless your inheritance.

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

TIMOTHY, my son, always be steady, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

For I am already on the point of being sacrificed; the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.

Gospel – St. Mark 1:1-8 (Sunday before Epiphany)

THE BEGINNING of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

As it is written in the prophets, “Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, who shall prepare thy way; the voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.”

John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And there went out to him all the country of Judea, and all the people of Jerusalem; and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, and had a leather girdle around his waist, and ate locusts and wild honey. And he preached, saying, “After me comes he who is mightier than I, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

Next week’s homework: Hebrews 13:7-16 (Saints Athanasius and Cyril of Alexandria)

Luke 17:12-19 (Twelfth 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.”

HOLY BREAD – The Malouf, Nahas and Farkouh Families offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of January for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Issam Abou Nader Malouf. Memory eternal!

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR JANUARY – Tomorrow, Monday, January 5, is a fast day in anticipation of the Feast of the Theophany of Christ. We then resume our customary fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays this month.

FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY – We will celebrate Festal Matins at 7 PM and the Divine Liturgy for the Feast of Epiphany thereafter tomorrow, January 5. Please begin your eucharistic fast following an early and light Lenten lunch. The pastor will then begin accepting appointments to bless homes and businesses.

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

JANUARY 4, 2026 – SUNDAY BEFORE THE THEOPHANY 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, JANUARY 4 – We 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, Robert Malouf, Rose Merhige, Ronald Sadaka, Effie Shraky, Ann Marie Smatt, and Nazli N. and Demetri Zayat. Memory eternal!

Naziha Aldaia offers the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of her parents and all of her departed family members. Memory eternal!

The Farkouh Family offers 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!

Mary Ann Shraky offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Effie Shraky. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 11 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Eli Abdallah, Nora and Kalil Ballan, Ameenie Freije, Emily and Edward Ghazal, Pauline Haddad, Maria Hindelly, Leila M. Khouri, Edma Saab, Nora Trefz, Emil Tweel, and Nadia Zaher. Memory eternal!

Vicky and Jim Tweel will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Emil Tweel. Memory eternal!

Dr. Firas and Teeba Marsheh and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nawal Tayar. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Laurice Ganim (Seagate), John Petrick (Norwegian), Anita and John Eyd, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

WORD MAGAZINE - If you do not receive The Word magazine at home, the official publication of the archdiocese, email Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc.org. It is free.

MEMORY ETERNAL! We are deeply saddened to announce that our former Church School Director and Parish Council member, Dr. Alice B. Farkouh, departed this life on Thursday, January 1, in the hope of the Resurrection. Her family will receive visitors here in the church from 3-7 today, and her funeral will be at 10 AM tomorrow. We extend our sympathies to her children Charles, Steven, and Cathy and to their families.

FEAST OF EPHIPHANY – Because the Great Feast of Epiphany falls on a Tuesday this year, we will celebrate the Great Blessing of Water on Sunday, January 4, and Festal Orthros and the Divine Liturgy for Epiphany Monday, January 5, beginning at 7 PM. We will begin blessing homes immediately thereafter. Please see Fr. Michael to make an appointment, or submit the form in this bulletin.

SUMMER CAMP – Registration for Summer Camp opens on Sunday, January 18, at 5 PM. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish.

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 Rima Al Sifi Hazem, the St. Mary’s Church Endowment Fund, and Vicky Mamary, 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.

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 – A new year has begun, and soon we will think about income taxes. Ask us how you can lower your taxes and support the church at the same time!

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, January 5 Festal Matins, 7 PM

Divine Liturgy, 8 PM

Tuesday, January 6 Great Feast of Theophany

Saturday, January 10 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Monday, January 12 Parish Council, 7 PM

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

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

FROM THE FATHERS – Blessed is everyone who in this life walks in His name. Blessed is he who labors in His name. Blessed is he who suffers in His name. Blessed is he who struggles, lives, and dies in His name. For His name “is above every name” (Philippians 2:9), and truly, “there is no other name under the sun given to men by which we can be saved” (Acts 4:12).

- St. Nikolai Velimirovich

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, December 28, 2025 - 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 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 28, 2025

Sunday after the Nativity of Christ

Tone 4 and Eothinon 7

Joseph the Betrothed, David the Prophet and King, and James the Brother of God

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 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: II Timothy 4:5-8 (Sunday before Theophany)

Mark 1:1-8 (Sunday before Theophany)

DECEMBER 28, 2025 – 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.

CHRIST IS BORN! GLORIFY HIM!

TODAY, DECEMBER 28 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Julie Aucar, Rachel Azar, George Couri, Sr., Nabil R. Debs, Wade Sahadi, and Victor S. Samara. Memory eternal!

Diana Zamaria and the Nassoor Family offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the health of their family members, the church community in 2026 and for world peace. Many years!

The Zaher Family offers Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nadia Zaher. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 4 – 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, Robert Malouf, Rose Merhige, Ronald Sadaka, Effie Shraky, Ann Marie Smatt, and Nazli N. and Demetri Zayat. 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 – The Spolar Family offers the Holy Bread for the month of December in loving memory of the servant of God Dr. Issam Arnuk. Memory eternal!

FASTING DISCIPLINE – There is no fasting from December 25 through January 4.

PASTORAL EMERGENCY – Fr. Michael will be out of town from Monday, December 29 through Friday, January 2. In the event of a pastoral emergency, please call Deacon Farid Farkouh at (347) 524-7708 or Fr. Thomas Zain at (917) 771-4120.

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CARD – Many thanks to Marian Russo and Audrey Sahadi who once again coordinated our annual Community Christmas Card. Well done, thou good and faithful servants!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Laurice Ganim (Seagate), John Petrick (Norwegian), Anita and John Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (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 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.

FEAST OF EPHIPHANY – Because the Great Feast of Epiphany falls on a Tuesday this year, we will celebrate the Great Blessing of Water on Sunday, January 4, and Festal Orthros and the Divine Liturgy for Epiphany Monday, January 5, beginning at 7 PM. We will begin blessing homes immediately thereafter. Please see Fr. Michael to make an appointment, or submit the form in this bulletin.

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.

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 Rima Al Sifi Hazem, the St. Mary’s Church Endowment Fund, and Vicky Mamary, 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.

YEAR END GIVING – Parishioners age 70½ and older may be able to support our parish in a tax-efficient way by giving directly from an IRA. A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) can satisfy part or all of your required minimum distribution and may reduce your taxable income. In addition, anyone holding appreciated investments in a taxable brokerage account can donate shares of stock or mutual funds directly to the church, which may help avoid capital gains tax. If you’re interested, please contact the parish office for transfer instructions, and speak with your tax or financial advisor to see what is appropriate for your situation.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Hafle

Thursday, January 1 New Year’s Day

Feasts of the Circumcision of Christ & St. Basil the Great

Saturday, January 3 Great Vespers, 5 PM

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

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for December 25, 2025 - 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

Thursday, December 25, 2025

The Nativity of Our Lord, God and Savior Christ

Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

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.

Megalynarion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 1

Magnify, O my soul, her that is more honorable and more glorious than the hosts on high.

A strange and marvelous mystery do I behold; the cave is a heaven; the Virgin a cherubic throne; the manger a space wherein Christ God the Uncontainable One hath reclined. Him do we praise and magnify.

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

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

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

DECEMBER 25, 2025 – 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.

CHRIST IS BORN! GLORIFY HIM!

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

NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Julie Aucar, Rachel Azar, George Couri, Sr., Nabil R. Debs, 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, Wajih, 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, Laurice Ganim (Seagate), John Petrick (Norwegian), Anita and John Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (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. Well done, thou good and faithful servants!

FEAST OF EPHIPHANY – Because the Great Feast of Epiphany falls on a Tuesday this year, we will celebrate the Great Blessing of Water on Sunday, January 4, and Festal Orthros and the Divine Liturgy for Epiphany Monday, January 5, beginning at 7 PM. We will begin blessing homes immediately thereafter. Please see Fr. Michael to make an appointment, or submit the form in this bulletin.

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 Rima Al Sifi Hazem, the St. Mary’s Church Endowment Fund, and Vicky Mamary, respectively. Congratulations!

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.

YEAR END GIVING – Parishioners age 70½ and older may be able to support our parish in a tax-efficient way by giving directly from an IRA. A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) can satisfy part or all of your required minimum distribution and may reduce your taxable income. In addition, anyone holding appreciated investments in a taxable brokerage account can donate shares of stock or mutual funds directly to the church, which may help avoid capital gains tax. If you’re interested, please contact the parish office for transfer instructions, and speak with your tax or financial advisor to see what is appropriate for your situation.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, December 25 Nativity of Christ (No services)

Wednesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Party

Thursday, January 1 New Year’s Day

Feast of the Circumcision of Christ

Feast of St. Basil the Great

Saturday, January 3 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Sunday, January 4 Great Blessing of Water

Monday, January 5 Festal Orthros, 7 PM

Divine Liturgy, 8 PM

Monday, January 12 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 21, 2025 - Sunday before the Nativity of Christ (The Geneology)

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 21, 2025

Sunday before the Nativity of Christ (The Genealogy)

Tone 3 and Eothinon 6

Virgin-Martyr Juliana of Nicomedia

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 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 – The Spolar Family offers the Holy Bread for the month of December in loving memory of the servant of God Dr. Issam Arnuk. Memory eternal!

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR DECEMBER – During the Nativity/Advent Fast we abstain from meat, poultry, eggs and dairy. It is not necessary to fast from oil, but it is permitted. There is no fasting from December 25 through January 4.

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

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

DECEMBER 21, 2025 – SUNDAY BEFORE THE NATIVITY OF CHRIST (THE GENEALOGY)

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 21 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Evelyn Z. Deschner, Anna Ghiz, 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 Parish Council offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of Deacon Farid Farkouh in gratitude and admiration for his faithful and sacrificial service to the parish and to the community. A special Coffee Hour will follow the Divine Liturgy. Many years!

Naziha Aldaia offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of the departed members of her family. Memory eternal!

Diana Zamaria and the Nassoor Family offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of their parents, Helen and Michael Nassoor and for Dr. Samira A. Zamaria, and all their departed family and friends. Memory eternal!

Helen Dodson of Chevy Chase, MD, offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Evelyn Z. Deschner. Memory eternal!

Steven Swaya offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Emily and Arthur Swaya and Nora and Nicolas Hawa. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Julie Aucar, Rachel Azar, George Couri, Sr., Nabil R. Debs, Wade Sahadi, Victor S. Samara, and Nadia Zaher. Memory eternal!

Diana Zamaria and the Nassoor Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the health of their family members, the church community in 2026 and for world peace. Many years!

The Zaher Family will offer Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nadia Zaher. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Laurice Ganim (Seagate), John Petrick (Norwegian), Anita and John Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE - Many thanks to the numerous people who once again supported our annual Christmas Boutique. This includes those who donated, picked up wreaths, made wreath donor cards, hung the wreaths on the church fence, solicited Bay Ridge shopkeepers for donations for the Gift Baskets, collected the 50/50 raffle and wreath donations, set up tables in the church hall and Santa's Workshop, made the church hall look like a festive winter wonderland, baked at home and after work late into the night, welcomed customers and sold at tables, kitchen, and bakery, greeted children at Santa's Workshop, made announcements during the event, 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. Even numerous people from other churches happily joined us in hosting this event. Everyone's dedication and efforts are greatly appreciated. See you at the Christmas Boutique 2026!

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES – Teen SOYO has placed boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions asap. We will distribute all items to the Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Center.

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.

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES – Among the many seasonal appeals we receive, the Pastor’s Discretionary Account would gratefully receive donations in support of cases of urgent need.

YEAR END GIVING – Parishioners age 70½ and older may be able to support our parish in a tax-efficient way by giving directly from an IRA. A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) can satisfy part or all of your required minimum distribution and may reduce your taxable income. In addition, anyone holding appreciated investments in a taxable brokerage account can donate shares of stock or mutual funds directly to the church, which may help avoid capital gains tax. If you’re interested, please contact the parish office for transfer instructions, and speak with your tax or financial advisor to see what is appropriate for your situation.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, December 21 Church School Christmas Pageant

Wednesday, December 24 Royal Hours, 9 AM

Festal Orthros, 9 PM

Divine Liturgy, 10 PM

Thursday, December 25 Nativity of Christ – No Divine Services

Saturday, December 27 Sebastiano-Trent Wedding, 12 PM

Great Vespers, 5 PM

Wednesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve Hafle

Thursday, January 1 Circumcision of Christ and Feast of St. Basil the Great

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

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, December 14, 2025 - 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 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 14, 2025

Sunday of the Forefathers (Ancestors) of Christ

Tone 2 and Eothinon 5

Martyrs Thyrsos, Leukios and Kallinikos of Apollonia

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 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 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 – Colossians 3:4-11 (Sunday of the Forefathers)

Prokeimenon. Daniel 3:26-27. Blessed art Thou, O Lord, the God of our Fathers.

Verse. For Thou art just in all that Thou has done to us!

BRETHREN, when Christ, who is our life, appears, then you will also appear with Him in glory. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idol worship; for the sake of such things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience; wherein you also once walked, when you lived in these things. But now you also put them all away: anger wrath, malice, blasphemy, and filthy language out of your mouths. Do not lie to one another, having put off the old man with his works; and having put on the new man, who is being renewed in knowledge according to the image of his Creator, where there cannot be Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, bond, or free; but Christ is all, and in all.

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 (Genealogy of Chirst)

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 – The Spolar Family offers the Holy Bread for the month of December in loving memory of the servant of God Dr. Issam Arnuk. Memory eternal!

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR DECEMBER – During the Nativity/Advent Fast we abstain from meat, poultry, eggs and dairy. It is not necessary to fast from oil, but it is permitted.

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

DECEMBER 14, 2025 – 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.

DECEMBER IS ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH MONTH

TODAY, DECEMBER 14 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Alexander Deeb, Charles Farkouh, Gloria Hawaweeny, Charles Macrina, Edward Mamary, Elizabeth Nader, Josephine Razook, Nicholas Sabah, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Majed Elias Tayar, 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!

Russell Farkouh offers Prayers of Oblation, a 40-Day Memorial and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of his father, the servant of God Ronald Farkouh. Memory eternal!

Hend Hadad Kaba offers Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of her mother, the handmaiden of God Haifa Georges. Hend will add sweets in her mother’s memory to today’s reception table. Memory eternal!

The Children and Grandchildren of Laurice Antaky Deeb and Alexander Deeb offer Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year memorial for Alex and a 30-Year Memorial for Laurice for the repose of their souls. Alex was a past Parish Council Chair, Treasurer, and Knight Commander of the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Evelyn Z. Deschner, Anna Ghiz, 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!

Helen Dodson of Chevy Chase, MD, will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Evelyn Z. Deschner. Memory eternal!

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, December 17. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Laurice Ganim (Seagate), John Petrick (Norwegian), Anita and John Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Terry Mackoul, Denise McBride, and Alfred Nahas (at home).

DECEMBER IS ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH MONTH – Members of the Order will read the epistle and assist with 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.

EDUCATIONAL OFFERINGS – We will conclude our Continuing Education Class on the “Themes of Advent” this Wednesday at 7:30 PM. Our Catechism Class will also meet. All learners are welcome. There is no charge. The Zoom link for the Continuing Education Class is: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

LOTTERY – Deacon Farid Farkouh is once again managing this year’s annual Little-Bit-o-Luck Lottery in memory of Robert Sabbagh. Please see Deacon Farid to reserve your ticket.

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES – Teen SOYO has placed boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions asap. We will distribute all items to the Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Center.

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES – Among the many seasonal appeals we receive, the Pastor’s Discretionary Account would gratefully receive donations in support of cases of urgent need.

YEAR END GIVING – Parishioners age 70½ and older may be able to support our parish in a tax-efficient way by giving directly from an IRA. A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) can satisfy part or all of your required minimum distribution and may reduce your taxable income. In addition, anyone holding appreciated investments in a taxable brokerage account can donate shares of stock or mutual funds directly to the church, which may help avoid capital gains tax. If you’re interested, please contact the parish office for transfer instructions, and speak with your tax or financial advisor to see what is appropriate for your situation.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, December 17 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Continuing Education and Catechism Classes, 7:30 PM

Friday, December 19 Midnight Run

Saturday, December 20 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, December 21 Church School Christmas Pageant

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Do all your work in the name of our Savior Jesus Christ, and thus shall your fruits be carried up to heaven.”

- St. Theophan the Recluse

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America