Bulletin for Sunday, June 14, 2020

Sunday, June 14, 2020

First Sunday after Pentecost: All Saints Sunday

Tone 8 and Eothinon 1

Holy Prophet Elisha

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 8

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

Apolytikion of All Saints – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Saints – Tone 8

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

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

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

Verse. Bless God in the congregations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next week’s homework: I Corinthians 4:9-16 (Synaxis of the Twelve Apostles)

Matthew 9:36-10:8 (Synaxis of the Twelve Apostles)

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 an online “chat.”

PLEASE MAKE SURE all electronic devices are turned off in the house/church.

JUNE 14, 2020 – FIRST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST: ALL SAINTS SUNDAY

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

TODAY, JUNE 14 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Adahlia and Atina David, Susan Paula Dib, Rose Elkas, John and Nicholas Massabni, George Metry, Lillian Sadaka, Adama Salamy, George and Rose Samman, Thomas and Najla Shohfi, Evelyn Shoucair, Albert G. and Olga Wardi, and Wadia Zain. Memory eternal!

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of the handmaiden of God Sra. Gloria Pujol of Madrid, Spain. Many years!

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 21 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Linda Abdallah, Edward and Wadiha Baloutine, Mabel Bittar, Basil and Janelle Couri, Nancy Davis, Florence Lewis Dibbs, Margarete Hadad, James Haddad, Mary and Phillip Hanna, Gloria Jabara, Farid Khoury, Lorraine Lewis, Lydia Lewis, John Massabni, Victor Merhige, Ferris Samara, Marie Sayegh, Margaret Soued, George and Victoria Tadross, and Adeeba Tweel. Memory eternal!

Albert Absey will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Marie Sayegh. Memory eternal!

Nadia Soued will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Margaret Soued. Memory eternal!

FASTING DISCIPLINE – The Apostles Fast begins tomorrow and continues until the Feast of SS. Peter and Paul (June 15-28). During this fast we observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, dairy, fish, wine, and olive oil) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays with katalysis for fish, wine, and olive oil on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

HOLY BREAD – Gloria Zain Darzi offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of June in loving memory of Wadia Zain. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for July and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

PASTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND – For the moment the Pastor’s Discretionary Fund has sufficient funds to meet current requests for assistance; however, we always welcome additional gifts, and we invite our people to submit the names of people or households who may need a little assistance during the pandemic to the pastor. All disbursements are made in complete anonymity and discretion. Donors may make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “PDF” in the memo line.

PLEDGE GIVING – During these extraordinary times we ask everyone to maintain their pledge giving as much as possible. Please remember that St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online. Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or check. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Dr. Alice Farkouh (Manahawkan, NJ), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Loulou Malouf, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home). If a member of your family is in the hospital or recuperating at home, please call the church office and let us know as soon as possible.

SPECIAL DONATION – We thank Audrey and Charlie Sahadi who have made a generous donation to assist with the additional costs the parish has incurred for sanitizing the church before and after the divine services. Many years!

AV VIRTUAL CAMP – Although the camping season at the Antiochian Village has been canceled, the Camp is preparing a series of virtual Evening Programs each week beginning June 18. For general information please go to office@avcamp.org. For specific information and registration for some programs please contact Evening Program Coordinator Nadia Ozone at nadia.ozone@gmail.com.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – Given that we are not likely to return to church en masse in the near term, please feel free to bring your Food for Hungry People boxes to the church. Please call the office at (718) 238-8008, or email Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc.org to make an appointment to drop off your box.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – We are pleased to announce that there will be an abbreviated and “socially distanced” outing this year on Thursday, September 24, at the Hempstead Country Club. Please mark your calendars. This year only there will be no sponsors or honorees, but there will be a souvenir journal to mark the occasion. Additional information will follow either later this month or early next month. Fore!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, June 20 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, June 21 Sunday of All Saints of North America

June 15-28 Fast of the Apostles

Monday, June 29 Feast of Holy Apostles Peter and Paul

We will livestream all divine services via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “The Lord is always waiting for us to unite ourselves with Him in love; but instead, we drift further and further away from Him. We know that there can be no life without love. This means that there is no life without God, for God is love. But His love is not according to the understanding of the world. The love that the world gives us consists of suffering and enslavement, because the spirits of evil interfere with it. There is a little bit of love, but mostly it is just enslavement.”

- Elder Thaddeus of Vitovnica

Bulletin for Sunday, June 7, 2020

Sunday, June 7, 2020

Great Feast of Holy Pentecost

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

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

Troparion of Pentecost – Tone 8

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

Kontakion of Pentecost – Tone 8

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

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

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

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

Verse. The heavens declare the glory of God.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JUNE 7, 2020 – GREAT FEAST OF HOLY PENTECOST

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

TODAY, JUNE 7 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Fouad Allawh, Nesen Coury, Shafica Debagie, Kathleen Halloran, Michael Haje, Georgette Jabbour, Eleanor Khoury, Eduardo Khouzami, Emile Malluk, Edward, George, Georgette and Olga Manessa, Joseph G. Mashamesh, Betty Massab, Wadih Massab, Fred Massad, Nicholas Orfaly, Albert T. Sabah, Blanche Shahood, Nicholas Ablan Shahood, Henrietta Shawah, Adele Unis, and Alfred Zrike. Memory eternal!

The Ellias Family offers Prayers of Oblation for the health and long life of the new child of God Alessandra Grace Ellias, daughter of Jessica and Matthew Ellias, and sister of Matthew Gregory Ellias, born June 4. Many years!

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 14 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Adahlia and Atina David, Susan Paula Dib, Rose Elkas, John and Nicholas Massabni, George Metry, Lillian Sadaka, Adama Salamy, George and Rose Samman, Thomas and Najla Shohfi, Evelyn Shoucair, Albert G. and Olga Wardi, and Wadia Zain. 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 an online “chat.”

HOLY BREAD – Gloria Zain Darzi offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of June in loving memory of Wadia Zain. Memory eternal! Linda and George Salamy have also made a donation for the rest of the year! Additional donors are welcome for July and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Terry Tashji (NYU Lutheran), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Loulou Malouf, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home). If a member of your family is in the hospital or recuperating at home, please call the church office and let us know as soon as possible.

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR JUNE – There is no fasting following the Feast of Pentecost (June 7) until June 15. After the Sunday of All Saints (June 14) we begin the Apostles Fast which continues until the Feast of SS. Peter and Paul (June 15-28). During this fast we observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, dairy, fish, wine, and olive oil) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays with katalysis for fish, wine, and olive oil on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

PLEDGE GIVING – During these extraordinary times we ask everyone to maintain their pledge giving as much as possible. Please remember that St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online. Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or check. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

LITURGICAL RESOURCES – Other online services are available in English at Holy Transfiguration Monastery at www.orthodoxmonasteryellwoodcity.org or in Arabic at Our Lady of Balamand Patriarchal Monastery at www.balamandmonastery.org.lb, or contact Fr. Meletios Zafaran at meletioszafaran@yahoo.com. Fr. Meletios is celebrating the Divine Liturgy in Arabic every Sunday morning. Services are also available in print on the Antiochian Archdiocese website at www.antiochian.org under “Liturgics” at the bottom of the home page.

PASTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND – For the moment the Pastor’s Discretionary Fund has sufficient funds to meet current requests for assistance; however, we always welcome additional gifts, and we invite our people to submit the names of people or households who may need a little assistance during the pandemic to the pastor. All disbursements are made in complete anonymity and discretion. Donors may make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “PDF” in the memo line.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – Given that we are not likely to return to church en masse in the near term, please feel free to bring your Food for Hungry People boxes to the church. Donors are also welcome to mail a check payable to St. Mary’s Church with “FFHP” in the memo line. Please call the office at (718) 238-8008, or email Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc to make an appointment to drop off your box.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – We are pleased to announce that there will be an abbreviated and “socially distanced” outing this year on Thursday, September 24, at the Hempstead Country Club. Please mark your calendars. This year only there will be no sponsors or honorees, but there will be a souvenir journal to mark the occasion. Additional information will follow either later this month or early next month. Fore!

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, June 13 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, June 14 Sunday of All Saints

June 15-28 Fast of the Apostles

Sunday, June 21 Sunday of all Saints of North America & Father’s Day

Monday, June 29 Feast of Holy Apostles Peter and Paul

We will livestream all divine services via twitch.tv/smaoc.

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

- St. Gregory the Theologian

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, May 31, 2020

Sunday, May 31, 2020

Sunday after the Feast of the Ascension 

Tone 6 and Eothinon 10

Commemoration of the Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 6
When Mary stood at thy grave looking for thy sacred body, angelic powers shone above thy revered tomb, and the soldiers who were to keep guard became as dead men.  Thou led hades captive and wast not tempted thereby.  Thou didst meet the Virgin and didst give life to the world; O thou that art risen from the dead!  O Lord, glory to thee.

Apolytikion of the Ascension – Tone 4
Thou hast ascended in glory, O Christ our God, and gladdened thy Disciples with the promise of the Holy Spirit, having become confident of the blessing.  Verily, thou art the Son of God, and Deliverer of the world.

Apolytikion of the Holy Fathers – Tone 8
Thou, O Christ, art our God of exceeding praise who didst establish our holy Fathers as luminous stars upon earth, and through them didst guide us unto the true Faith, O most merciful One, glory to thee.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4
Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe.  For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Kontakion of the Ascension – Tone 6
When thou didst fulfill thy dispensation for our sakes, uniting the terrestrials with the celestials, thou didst ascend in glory, O Christ our God, inseparable in space, but constant without separation, and crying unto thy beloved, I am with you, and no one shall be against you.

Epistle – Acts 20:16-18, 28-36 (Sunday of the Holy Fathers of Nicea)
Prokeimenon.  Hymn of the Three Children.  Daniel 3.26-27.  Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our fathers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MAY 31, 2020 –SUNDAY AFTER THE ASCENSION 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, MAY 31 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Adele and Joseph Abouchar, Joseph G. Corey, Patricia Khouri Costa, George Fattouh, Rose Haddad, Nour El Khoury, Rose Khoury, George Monier, Alice Muscat, Sam Shamas, Adolph, Nicholas, and Rose Smatt.  Memory eternal!

Lily and Paul Lang offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Agnes Zahka.  Memory eternal!

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation and a Two-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Sebastian Rothhammer.  Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 7 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Fouad Allawh, Nesen Coury, Shafica Debagie, Kathleen Halloran, Michael Haje, Georgette Jabbour, Eleanor Khoury, Eduardo Khouzami, Emile Malluk, Edward, George, Georgette and Olga Manessa, Joseph G. Mashamesh, Betty Massab, Wadih Massab, Fred Massad, Nicholas Orfaly, Albert T. Sabah, Blanche Shahood, Nicholas Ablan Shahood, Henrietta Shawah, Adele Unis, and Alfred Zrike.  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 an online “chat.”

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the rest of the year!  Additional donors are welcome for June and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

LITURGICAL RESOURCES – Other online services are available in English at Holy Transfiguration Monastery at www.orthodoxmonasteryellwoodcity.org or in Arabic at Our Lady of Balamand Patriarchal Monastery at www.balamandmonastery.org.lb, or contact Fr. Meletios Zafaran at meletioszafaran@yahoo.com.  Fr. Meletios is celebrating the Divine Liturgy in Arabic every Sunday morning.  Services are also available in print on the Antiochian Archdiocese website at www.antiochian.org under “Liturgics” at the bottom of the home page.

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will meet tomorrow, June 1, at 7:30 PM.  Parish Council Chair Chris Athineos will email details on how to participate via Zoom.

FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Loulou Malouf, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).  If a member of your family is in the hospital or recuperating at home, please call the church office and let us know as soon as possible.

OCMC – Our June pledge envelopes include a yellow envelope for the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC).  Please support global Orthodox mission efforts with your contributions.

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR JUNE – We maintain our typical pattern of fasting on Wednesday and Friday for the first week of June.  There is no fasting following the Feast of Pentecost (June 7) until June 15.  After the Sunday of All Saints (June 14) we begin the Apostles Fast which continues until the Feast of SS. Peter and Paul (June 15-28).  There is no kneeling until the Feast of Pentecost (June 7).

APARTMENT AVAILABLE – A parishioner has a 2-bedroom apartment with living room and eat-in kitchen with access to a garage available for immediate occupancy.  Please call (917) 501-7305.

PLEDGE GIVING – During these extraordinary times we ask everyone to maintain their pledge giving as much as possible.  Please remember that St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online.  Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or check. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

PASTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND – The current crisis provides us the unique opportunity to support each other in many ways.  We encourage our parishioners to contact the office if they need assistance with shopping, cooking, errands or light housework, and we have received offers to help with these tasks from a number of our members; however, we recognize the financial stresses our families are experiencing.  The Pastor’s Discretionary Fund can dispense some financial assistance anonymously and would welcome contributions.  Please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church and write “PDF” in the memo line.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – Given that we are not likely to return to church en masse in the near term, please feel free to bring your Food for Hungry People boxes to the church.  Please call the office at (718) 238-8008, or email Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc to make an appointment to drop off your box.

EMAIL ADDRESSES – This pandemic has forced us to communicate through mass emails; however, we do not have a complete census of our members.  Please send us email addresses for all members of your family so that we can distribute current information as fully as possible.

WORD MAGAZINE – The Word is the official news magazine of the Antiochian Archdiocese.  If you are a member of St. Mary’s Church in good financial standing and do not already receive a free copy of The Word, or would like to subscribe for $20 per year, or change your address, you can do so at www.antiochian.org/address-updates.

LAST CALL FOR SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2020.

SHAGOURY SCHOLARSHIP – The Edith Shagoury Scholarship Fund offers an award for the coming academic year to an undergraduate student from St. Mary’s Church.  The qualifications for this award are parish participation, scholarship, and financial need.  The amount of the scholarship varies depending on the return on the fund’s investment.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its first award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  The Parish Council is in the process of finalizing the criteria for the award.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

FR. PAUL SCHNEIRLA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – Teen SOYO will once again offer this scholarship in loving memory of our beloved former pastor.  This scholarship is presented on the basis of academic excellence.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN MISSION CENTER - Mission Teams have been described as “time spent in a cross-cultural community where God crosses into the culture of our souls.”  It is a way for us to respond to Christ’s last words before His Ascension:  "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you" (Matthew 29: 18-20).  Apply for an OCMC Mission Team and be part of making disciples of all nations. Visit www.ocmc.org or email teams@ocmc.org.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, June 6 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, June 7 Feast of Pentecost

June 15-28 Fast of the Apostles

Monday, June 29 Feast of Holy Apostles Peter and Paul

We will livestream all divine services via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “We see the water of a river flowing uninterruptedly and passing away, and all that floats on its surface, rubbish or beams of tress, all pass by.  Christians!  So does our life...I was an infant, and that time has gone.  I was an adolescent, and that too has passed.  I was a young man, that too is far behind me.  The strong and mature man that I was is no more.  My hair turns white, I succumb to age, but that too passes; I approach the end and will go the way of all flesh.  I was born in order to die.  I die that I may live.  Remember me, O Lord, in Thy Kingdom!.”

• St. Tikhon of Voronezh

Bulletin for Sunday, May 24, 2020

Sunday, May 24, 2020

Sixth Sunday of Pascha:  Sunday of the Blind Man

Tone 5 and Eothinon 8

Venerable Stylites Simeon the Younger of the Mount of Wonders

and Nikitas of Pereyaslavl-Zalesski

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

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

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 5
Let us believers praise and worship the Word, co-eternal with the Father and the Spirit, born of the Virgin for our salvation.  For he took pleasure in ascending the cross in the flesh to suffer death, and to raise the dead by his glorious resurrection.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4
Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe.  For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8
Though thou, O deathless One, didst descend into the grave, thou didst destroy the power of hell and, as Victor, thou didst rise again, O Christ our God.  Thou didst greet the ointment bearing women, saying, rejoice!  Thou didst bestow peace upon thy Disciples, and resurrection upon those that are fallen.

Epistle – Acts 16:16-34 (Blind Man)
Prokeimenon.  Psalm 11.7, 1.  You, O Lord, shall keep us and preserve us.
Verse.  Save me, O Lord, for the godly man has failed.

            IN THOSE DAYS, as we apostles were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by soothsaying.  She followed Paul and us, crying, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.”  And this she did for many days.  But Paul was annoyed, and turned and said to the spirit, “I charge you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.”  And it came out that very hour.

            But when her owners saw that their hope of gain was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the market place before the rulers; and when they had brought them to the magistrates they said, “These men are Jews and they are disturbing our city.  They advocate customs which it is not lawful for us Romans to accept or practice.”  The crowd joined in attacking them; and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods.  And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, charging the jailer to keep them safely.  Having received this charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.

            But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and every one’s fetters were unfastened.  When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped.  But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.”  And he called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas, and brought them out and said, “Men, what must I do to be saved?”  And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”  And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all that were in his house.  And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their wounds, and he was baptized at once, with all his family.   Then he brought them up into his house, and set food before them; and he rejoiced with all his household that he had believed in God.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Megalynarion – Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem; for the glory of the Lord hath risen upon thee.  Rejoice and exult now, O Zion, and thou, O pure one, Theotokos, rejoice at the Resurrection of thy Son.

Next week’s homework:         
Acts 20:16-18, 28-36 (Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council)
John 17-1-13 (Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council)

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the rest of the year!  Additional donors are welcome for next week, June, and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

MAY 24, 2020 – SIXTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA:  SUNDAY OF THE BLIND MAN

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

TODAY, MAY 24 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Madeleine Aboulsleman, Kamel Arida, Mitry Azar, Fares Deban, Alan Fadel, Thomas Gehshan, Archimandrite Agapios Golam, Edward Habre, Adel Jobe Inguilli, George Jasous, Anna Karkenny, Rose Makhoul, Victoria Makhoul, Nicholas Malouf, Phillip Manessa, Raymond Massad, Lorice Mulhern, Mary and Thomas Rahal, Sebastian Rothhammer, Badri Saleeby, Mildred Sarkis, Victor Samra Jr., Christ Sparsidis, Laurice Sarraf, and Theodore Tadross.  Memory eternal!

Lily and Paul Lang offer Prayers of Oblation for the good health of Audrey and Charlie Sahadi.  Many years!

Marian Russo offers Prayers of Oblation for the handmaiden of God Rose Brown.  Many years!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 31 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Adele and Joseph Abouchar, Joseph G. Corey, Patricia Khouri Costa, George Fattouh, Rose Haddad, Nour El Khoury, Rose Khoury, George Monier, Alice Muscat, Sam Shamas, Adolph, Nicholas, and Rose Smatt.  Memory eternal!

George Trisciuzzi will offer Prayers of Oblation and a Two-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Sebastian Rothhammer.  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 an online “chat.”

FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Loulou Malouf, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).  If a member of your family is in the hospital or recuperating at home, please call the church office and let us know as soon as possible.

FASTING DISCIPLINE – We maintain our typical pattern of fasting on Wednesday and Friday; however, some within the Patriarchate of Antioch suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension (May 28).  There is no kneeling until the Feast of Pentecost (June 7).

FEAST OF THE ASCENSION – We will celebrate an Evening Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Ascension on Wednesday, May 27, at 7:00.  Please join us via twitch.tv/smaoc.

LITURGICAL RESOURCES – Other online services are available in English at Holy Transfiguration Monastery at www.orthodoxmonasteryellwoodcity.org or in Arabic at Our Lady of Balamand Patriarchal Monastery at www.balamandmonastery.org.lb., or contact Fr. Meletios Zafaran at meletioszafaran@yahoo.com.  Fr. Meletios is celebrating the Divine Liturgy in Arabic every Sunday morning.  Services are also available in print on the Antiochian Archdiocese website at www.antiochian.org under “Liturgics” at the bottom of the home page.

APARTMENT AVAILABLE – A parishioner has a 2-bedroom apartment with living room and eat-in kitchen with access to a garage available for immediate occupancy.  For more information, please call (917) 501-7305.

PLEDGE GIVING – During these extraordinary times we ask everyone to maintain their pledge giving as much as possible.  Please remember that St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online.  Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or check. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

PASTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND – The current crisis provides us the unique opportunity to support each other in many ways.  We encourage our parishioners to contact the office if they need assistance with shopping, cooking, errands or light housework, and we have received offers to help with these tasks from a number of our members; however, we are beginning to recognize the financial stresses our families are experiencing.  The Pastor’s Discretionary Fund can dispense some financial assistance anonymously and would welcome contributions.  Please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church and write “PDF” in the memo line.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – In these stressful times our Lenten practice of almsgiving is of heightened importance.  Many people will need help to weather this physical and economic crisis.  Please continue using the traditional FFHP collection boxes.  Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and hold onto your box until we can all return to church.  This year the resources of FFHP will be distributed to people in need within our Archdiocese.  Please submit the names of anyone we know who may benefit from this program to Fr. Michael by email, telephone, or letter for anonymous submission before June 30.

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2020.

SHAGOURY SCHOLARSHIP – The Edith Shagoury Scholarship Fund offers an award for the coming academic year to an undergraduate student from St. Mary’s Church.  The qualifications for this award are parish participation, scholarship, and financial need.  The amount of the scholarship varies depending on the return on the fund’s investment.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its first award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  The Parish Council is in the process of finalizing the criteria for the award.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

FR. PAUL SCHNEIRLA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – Teen SOYO will once again offer this scholarship in loving memory of our beloved former pastor.  This scholarship is presented on the basis of academic excellence.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE – Please note that this Friday, May 29, is the deadline to apply for the Antiochian Women’s Scholarship and all three scholarships offered by St. Mary’s Church.  Please contact Fr. Michael ASAP to submit an application.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

DATES TO REMEMBER

            Wednesday, May 27      Leavetaking of Holy Pascha

                                                Evening Divine Liturgy, 7:00 PM

            Thursday, May 28         Feast of the Ascension of Christ

            Saturday, May 30          Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, June 7             Feast of Pentecost

We will livestream all divine services via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “Do not think that the virtue is beyond your strenth and is unrealizable for you, but having enlivened yourself with prayer and laid the beginnings, present your good efforts before God – and you will see what help He will give you to accomplish your virtuous deeds.”

-        St. Dorotheos of Gaza

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

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

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

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

 “Christos Anesti”                       “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese”                   “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam”                      “Ha’an Qam”

“Hristos a Inviat”                                    “Adeverat a Inviat”

“Cristo ha resucitado”                “Verdaderamente ha resucitado!

            “Cristo e risorto”                        “E veramente risorto”

            “Christ est Ressuscite”               En Verite, Il est Resussuscite”

            “Kriste aghsdga”                        Cheshmaritad aghsdga”

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

Bulletin for Sunday, May 17, 2020

Sunday, May 17, 2020

Fifth Sunday of Pascha:  Sunday of the Samaritan Woman 

and After-Feast of Mid-Pentecost

Tone 4 and Eothinon 7

Apostles Andronikos and Junia of the Seventy

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

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

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 4
Having learned the joyful message of the Resurrection from the angel, the women disciples of the Lord cast from them their parental condemnation, and proudly broke the news to the disciples, saying, Death hath been spoiled.  Christ God is risen, granting the world great mercy.

Apolytikion of Mid-Pentecost – Tone 8
In the midst of this Feast, O Saviour, give thou my thirsty soul to drink of the waters of true worship; for thou didst call out to all, saying, Whosoever is thirsty, let him come to me and drink.  Wherefore, O Christ our God, Fountain of life, glory to thee.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4
Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe.  For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8
Though thou, O deathless One, didst descend into the grave, thou didst destroy the power of hell and, as Victor, thou didst rise again, O Christ our God.  Thou didst greet the ointment bearing women, saying, rejoice!  Thou didst bestow peace upon thy Disciples, and resurrection upon those that are fallen.

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 11:19-30 (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman)
Prokeimenon.  Psalm 103.24, 1.  O Lord, how magnificent are your works.  You have made all things in wisdom.
Verse.  Bless the Lord, O my soul.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Megalynarion – The angel spake to her that is full of grace, saying, O pure Virgin, rejoice; and I say also, Rejoice; for thy Son is risen from the tomb on the third day.  We believers in unison bless thee, O Virgin, crying:  Rejoice, O gate of the Lord.  Rejoice, O living city.  Rejoice, O thou from whom didst rise upon us from the dead the Light of Resurrection, He Who was born of thee.

Next week’s homework:
Acts 16:16-34 (Blind Man)
John 1-38 (Blind Man)

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the rest of the year!  Additional donors are welcome for May and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

MAY 17, 2020 – FIFTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA:  SUNDAY OF THE SAMARITAN WOMAN AND AFTER-FEAST OF MID-PENTECOST

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

TODAY, MAY 17 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Anita, George, Matilda, Nicholas and Yvonne Alwon, Asma Araman, Julia Awad, Michael Davis, William Eyd, Albert Farrah, Hadbo and Nadra Haddad, Murad Kaity, Ibrahim Laham, Liza Mashnouh, Wadea Massab, Yvonne Najjar, Toufic Nehme, Richard Sahadi, Samuel Samman, Nicholas, Peter and Rose Smatt, Ratiba Sukkarieh, Donald Texeira, and Careemy and George Zaher.  Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 24 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Madeleine Abousleman, Kamel Arida, Mitry Azar, Fares Deban, Alan Fadel, Thomas Gehshan, Archimandrite Agapios Golam, Edward Habre, Adel Jobe Inguilli, George Jasous, Anna Karkenny, Rose Makhoul, Victoria Makhoul, Nicholas Malouf, Phillip Manessa, Raymond Massad, Lorice Mulhern, Mary and Thomas Rahal, Sebastian Rothhammer, Badri Saleeby, Mildred Sarkis, Victor Samra Jr., Christ Sparsidis, Laurice Sarraf, and Theodore Tadross.  Memory eternal!

Gabriel Golam will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his uncle, Archimandrite Agapios Golam.  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 an online “chat.”

FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Loulou Malouf, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).  If a member of your family is in the hospital or recuperating at home, please call the church office and let us know as soon as possible.

FASTING DISCIPLINE – We maintain our typical pattern of fasting on Wednesday and Friday; however, some within the Patriarchate of Antioch suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension (May 28).  There is no kneeling until the Feast of Pentecost (June 7).

EMAIL ADDRESSES – This pandemic has forced us to communicate through mass emails; however, we do not have a complete census of our members.  Please send us email addresses for all members of your family so that we can distribute current information as fully as possible.

LITURGICAL RESOURCES – Other online services are available in English at Holy Transfiguration Monastery at www.orthodoxmonasteryellwoodcity.org or in Arabic at Our Lady of Balamand Patriarchal Monastery at www.balamandmonastery.org.lb, or contact Fr. Meletios Zafaran at meletioszafaran@yahoo.com.  Fr. Meletios is celebrating in Arabic every Sunday morning.  Services are also available in print on the Antiochian Archdiocese website at www.antiochian.org under “Liturgics” at the bottom of the home page.

PLEDGE GIVING – During these extraordinary times we ask everyone to maintain their pledge giving as much as possible.  Please remember that St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online.  Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or check. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

PASTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND – The current crisis provides us the unique opportunity to support each other in many ways.  We encourage our parishioners to contact the office if they need assistance with shopping, cooking, errands or light housework, and we have received offers to help with these tasks from a number of our members; however, we are beginning to recognize the financial stresses our families are experiencing.  The Pastor’s Discretionary Fund can dispense some financial assistance anonymously and would welcome contributions.  Please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church and write “PDF” in the memo line.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – In these stressful times our practice of almsgiving is of heightened importance.  Many people will need help to weather this physical and economic crisis.  Please continue using the traditional FFHP collection boxes.  Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and hold onto your box until we can all return to church.  “He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward him for what he has done.”  Proverbs 19:17 

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2020.

SHAGOURY SCHOLARSHIP – The Edith Shagoury Scholarship Fund offers an award for the coming academic year to an undergraduate student from St. Mary’s Church.  The qualifications for this award are parish participation, scholarship, and financial need.  The amount of the scholarship varies depending on the return on the fund’s investment.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its first award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  The Parish Council is in the process of finalizing the criteria for the award.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

FR. PAUL SCHNEIRLA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – Teen SOYO will once again offer this scholarship in loving memory of our beloved former pastor.  This scholarship is presented on the basis of academic excellence.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

WORD MAGAZINE – The Word is the official news magazine of the Antiochian Archdiocese.  If you are a member of St. Mary’s Church in good financial standing and do not already receive a free copy of The Word, or would like to subscribe for $20 per year, or change your address, you can do so at www.antiochian.org/address-updates.

ESTATE PLANNING – A bequest is one of the easiest gifts to make in order to impact the ministry of the Church significantly.  An estate plan can include a provision that leaves a lasting gift to St. Mary’s Church.  A bequest could be a gift of specific assets, a dollar amount, or a percentage of the estate.  A bequest could also be the residue of an estate after all gifts have been made to heirs.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, May 23 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Wednesday, May 27 Leavetaking of Holy Pascha

Thursday, May 28 Feast of the Ascension of Christ

Sunday, June 7 Feast of Pentecost

We will livestream all divine services via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “A wise and excellent means of struggle…is to uproot at the very first impulse – that is, at the assault – the thought which comes to us.”

• St. Nilus Sorsky

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

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

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

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

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese” 

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

“Hristos a Inviat” “Adeverat a Inviat”

“Cristo ha resucitado” “Verdaderamente ha resucitado”

“Cristo e risorto” “E veramente risorto”

“Christ est Ressuscite” “En Verite, Il est Resussuscite”

“Kriste aghsdga” “Cheshmaritad aghsdga”

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

Bulletin for Sunday, May 9, 2020

Sunday, May 10, 2020

Fourth Sunday of Pascha

Tone 3 and Eothinon 5

Sunday of the Paralytic

Apostle Simon the Zealot

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

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

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 3
Let the heavens rejoice and the earth be glad; for the Lord hath done a mighty act with his own arm.  He hath trampled down death and become the First-born from the dead.  He hath delivered us from the depth of hades, granting the world the Great Mercy.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4
Thy nativity, O Theotokos, hath proclaimed joy to the whole universe.  For from thee did shine forth the Sun of justice, Christ our God, annulling the curse, and bestowing the blessing, abolishing death and granting us life everlasting.

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8
Though thou, O deathless One, didst descend into the grave, thou didst destroy the power of hell and, as Victor, thou didst rise again, O Christ our God.  Thou didst greet the ointment bearing women, saying, rejoice!  Thou didst bestow peace upon thy Disciples, and resurrection upon those that are fallen.

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 9:32-42 (Sunday of the Paralytic)
Prokeimenon.  Psalm 46.6, 1.  Sing praises to our God, sing praises.
Verse.  Clap your hands, all you nations.

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

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

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

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

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

Megalynarion – The angel spake to her that is full of grace, saying, O pure Virgin, rejoice; and I say also, Rejoice; for thy Son is risen from the tomb on the third day.  We believers in unison bless thee, O Virgin, crying:  Rejoice, O gate of the Lord.  Rejoice, O living city.  Rejoice, O thou from whom didst rise upon us from the dead the Light of Resurrection, He Who was born of thee.

Next week’s homework:
Acts 11:19-30 (Samaritan Woman)
John 4:5-42 (Samaritan Woman)

MAY 10, 2020 – FOURTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA:  SUNDAY OF THE PARALYTIC

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, MAY 10 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Anita, George, Matilda, Nicholas and Yvonne Alwon, Asma Araman, Julia Awad, Michael Davis, William Eyd, Albert Farrah, Hadbo and Nadra Haddad, Murad Kaity, Ibrahim Laham, Liza Mashnouh, Wadea Massab, Yvonne Najjar, Toufic Nehme, Richard Sahadi, Samuel Samman, Nicholas, Peter and Rose Smatt, Ratiba Sukkarieh, Donald Texeira, and Careemy and George Zaher.  Memory eternal!

Fr. Michael and Laila Ellias offer Prayers of Oblation for the health of Matthew and Jessica on their wedding anniversary and of Marie for her birthday.  Many years!

Elise and Patrick Marano offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Victoria and Edgar Saadi.  Memory eternal!

Charles and Audrey Sahadi offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Richard A. Sahadi.  Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 17 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Anita, George, Matilda, Nicholas and Yvonne Alwon, Asma Araman, Julia Awad, Michael Davis, William Eyd, Albert Farrah, Hadbo and Nadra Haddad, Murad Kaity, Ibrahim Laham, Liza Mashnouh, Wadea Massab, Yvonne Najjar, Toufic Nehme, Richard Sahadi, Samuel Samman, Nicholas, Peter and Rose Smatt, Ratiba Sukkarieh, Donald Texeira, and Careemy and George Zaher.  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 an online “chat.”

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the rest of the year!  Additional donors are welcome for May and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Roy Abou Naoum, Nadim Dahdouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Loulou Malouf, Philip Mantia, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).  If a member of your family is in the hospital or recuperating at home, please call the church office and let us know as soon as possible.

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will hold its monthly meeting tomorrow, Monday, May 11 at 7:30 PM via Zoom.

FASTING DISCIPLINE – We maintain our typical pattern of fasting on Wednesday and Friday; however, some within the Patriarchate of Antioch suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension (May 28).  There is no kneeling until the Feast of Pentecost (June 7).

LITURGICAL RESOURCES – Online services are available in English at Holy Transfiguration Monastery at www.orthodoxmonasteryellwoodcity.org or in Arabic at Our Lady of Balamand Patriarchal Monastery at www.balamandmonastery.org.lb, or contact Fr. Meletios Zafaran at meletioszafaran@yahoo.com.  Fr. Meletios is celebrating in Arabic every Sunday morning.  Services are also available in print on the Antiochian Archdiocese website at www.antiochian.org under “Liturgics” at the bottom of the home page.

PLEDGE GIVING – During these extraordinary times we ask everyone to maintain their pledge giving as much as possible.  A review of our April Financial Statement shows that the Church has received $10,000 less in pledge giving than last year at this time.  Please remember that St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online.  Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or check. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

PASTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND – The current crisis provides us the unique opportunity to support each other in many ways.  We encourage our parishioners to contact the office if they need assistance with shopping, cooking, errands or light housework, and we have received offers to help with these tasks from a number of our members; however, we are beginning to recognize the financial stresses our families are experiencing.  The Pastor’s Discretionary Fund can dispense some financial assistance anonymously and would welcome contributions.  Please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church and write “PDF” in the memo line.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – In these stressful times our Lenten practice of almsgiving is of heightened importance.  Many people will need help to weather this physical and economic crisis.  Please continue using the traditional FFHP collection boxes.  Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and hold onto your box until we can all return to church.  “When you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”  Matthew 6:3-4

EMAIL ADDRESSES – This pandemic has forced us to communicate through mass emails; however, we do not have a complete census of our members.  Please send us email addresses for all members of your family so that we can distribute current information as fully as possible.

WORD MAGAZINE – The Word is the official news magazine of the Antiochian Archdiocese.  If you are a member of St. Mary’s Church in good financial standing and do not already receive a free copy of The Word, or would like to subscribe for $20 per year, or change your address, you can do so at www.antiochian.org/address-updates.

APARTMENT AVAILABLE – A parishioner has a 2-bedroom apartment with living room and eat-in kitchen with access to a garage available for immediate occupancy.  For more information, please call (917) 501-7305.

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2020.

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college.  Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2020.  For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

SHAGOURY SCHOLARSHIP – The Edith Shagoury Scholarship Fund offers an award for the coming academic year to an undergraduate student from St. Mary’s Church.  The qualifications for this award are parish participation, scholarship, and financial need.  The amount of the scholarship varies depending on the return on the fund’s investment.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its first award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  The Parish Council is in the process of finalizing the criteria for the award.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

FR. PAUL SCHNEIRLA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – Teen SOYO will once again offer this scholarship in loving memory of our beloved former pastor.  This scholarship is presented on the basis of academic excellence.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, May 16 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, May 17 Matins, 9:30 AM, Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

Thursday, May 27 Leavetaking of Holy Pascha

Friday, May 28 Feast of the Ascension of Christ

We will livestream all divine services via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “One who busies himself with the sins of others, or who condemns his brother out of suspicion, has not yet begun to repent; and does not seek to know his own sins, which are – in truth – heavier than a quantity of lead weighing many talents.  In addition, he does not realize why it is that a man becomes slow of heart, loving vanity and questing after falsehood.  For this reason, as one foolish and walking in darkness, he disregards his own sins, and becomes preoccupied – in his imagination – with the sins of others – whether they really have occurred, or he merely suspects they have.”

• St. Maximus the Confessor

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

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

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

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

 “Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese” 

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

“Hristos a Inviat” “Adeverat a Inviat”

“Cristo ha resucitado” “Verdaderamente ha resucitado!

“Cristo e risorto” “E veramente risorto”

“Christ est Ressuscite” En Verite, Il est Resussuscite”

“Kriste aghsdga” Cheshmaritad aghsdga”

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

Bulletin for Sunday, May 3, 2020

Sunday, May 3, 2020

Third Sunday of Pascha

Tone 2 and Eothinon 4

Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women

Pious Joseph of Arimathaea and Righteous Nicodemus

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

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

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 2

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

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

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

Apolytikion of the Myrrh Bearing Women – Tone 2

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

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

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 6:1-7 (Myrrh-Bearing Women)
Prokeimenon.  Psalm 117.14, 18.  The Lord is my strength and my son.
Verse.  The Lord has chastened me sorely.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next week’s homework:
Acts 9:32-42 (Sunday of the Paralytic)
John 5:1-15 (Sunday of the Paralytic)

MAY 3, 2020 – THIRD SUNDAY OF PASCHA:  SUNDAY OF THE MYRRH-BEARING WOMEN, PIOUS JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA, AND RIGHTEOUS NICODEMUS

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

TODAY, MAY 3 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George Adams, Asma Arida, Edward Ateyeh, Helen Cook, James Coury, George Deeb, Edward Farkouh, Diane Elkas Grinell, Margaret Hanna, Rose Hanna, Nour El-Khoury, Yvonne Khoury, Jacob Kaibney, Olga Haick Kent, Mary Khoury, Nesta Khoury, Rose Massab, Gebron Matar, Edward Migdalene, Haleem Migdalene, Gladys and Theodore Sadaka, Gabriel and Nazira Samen, John Samen, Adal Seleeby, Salma Torpey, Nada Traboulsi, and Viola Meshnooh.  Memory eternal!

Josette and John Generale offer Prayers of Oblation for the good health of Audrey and Charlie Sahadi.  Many years!

Michele Ateyeh will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her father, the servant of God Edward Ateyeh.  Memory eternal!

Peter Elkas will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his sister, the handmaiden of God Diane Elkas Grinell.  Memory eternal!

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

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of his parents, Adele and Teodoro Trisciuzzi.  Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 10 – Anita, George, Matilda, Nicholas and Yvonne Alwon, Asma Araman, Julia Awad, Michael Davis, William Eyd, Albert Farrah, Hadbo and Nadra Haddad, Murad Kaity, Ibrahim Laham, Liza Mashnouh, Wadea Massab, Yvonne Najjar, Toufic Nehme, Richard Sahadi, Samuel Samman, Nicholas, Peter and Rose Smatt, Ratiba Sukkarieh, Donald Texeira, and Careemy and George Zaher.  Memory eternal!

Josette and John Generale will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nadra and Habdo Haddad.  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 an online “chat.”

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the rest of the year!  Additional donors are welcome for May and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Roy Abou Naoum, Nadim Dahdouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Loulou Malouf, Philip Mantia, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).  If a member of your family is in the hospital or recuperating at home, please call the church office and let us know as soon as possible.

FASTING DISCIPLINE – This week we observe our typical pattern of fasting on Wednesday and Friday; however, some within the Patriarchate of Antioch suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension (May 28).  There is no kneeling until the Feast of Pentecost (June 7).

LITURGICAL RESOURCES – Online services are available in English at Holy Transfiguration Monastery at www.orthodoxmonasteryellwoodcity.org or in Arabic at Our Lady of Balamand Patriarchal Monastery at www.balamandmonastery.org.lb, or contact Fr. Meletios Zafaran at meletioszafaran@yahoo.com.  Fr. Meletios is celebrating in Arabic every Sunday morning.  Services are also available in print on the Antiochian Archdiocese website at www.antiochian.org under “Liturgics” at the bottom of the home page.

PLEDGE GIVING – During these extraordinary times we ask everyone to maintain their pledge giving as much as possible.  Please remember that St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online.  Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or check. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

PASTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND – The current crisis provides us the unique opportunity to support each other in many ways.  We encourage our parishioners to contact the office if they need assistance with shopping, cooking, errands or light housework, and we have received offers to help with these tasks from a number of our members; however, we recognize the financial stresses our families are experiencing.  The Pastor’s Discretionary Fund can dispense some financial assistance anonymously and would welcome contributions.  Please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church and write “PDF” in the memo line.

WORD MAGAZINE – The Word is the official news magazine of the Antiochian Archdiocese.  If you are a member of St. Mary’s Church in good financial standing and do not already receive a free copy of The Word, or would like to subscribe for $20 per year, or change your address, you can do so at www.antiochian.org/address-updates.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – In these stressful times our practice of almsgiving is of heightened importance.  Many people will need help to weather this physical and economic crisis.  Please continue using the traditional FFHP collection boxes.  Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and hold onto your box until we can all return to church.  “He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward him for what he has done.”  Proverbs 19:17 

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2020.

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college.  Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2020.  For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

SHAGOURY SCHOLARSHIP – The Edith Shagoury Scholarship Fund offers an award for the coming academic year to an undergraduate student from St. Mary’s Church.  The qualifications for this award are parish participation, scholarship, and financial need.  The amount of the scholarship varies depending on the return on the fund’s investment.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its first award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  The Parish Council is in the process of finalizing the criteria for the award.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

FR. PAUL SCHNEIRLA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – Teen SOYO will once again offer this scholarship in loving memory of our beloved former pastor.  This scholarship is presented on the basis of academic excellence.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, May 9 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, May 10 Matins, 9:30 AM, Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

Thursday, May 27 Leavetaking of Holy Pascha

Friday, May 28 Feast of the Ascension of Christ

Sunday, June 7 Feast of Pentecost

We will livestream all divine services via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “It is most necessary and helpful for the soul to endure with fortitude every tribulation, whether inflicted by men or by demons.  We should recognize that our sufferings are no more than we deserve, and we should never blame anyone but ourselves.  For whoever blames others for his own tribulations has lost the power of judging correctly what is tohis own advantage.”

• St. John of Karpathos

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

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

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

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

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese” 

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

“Hristos a Inviat” “Adeverat a Inviat”

“Cristo ha resucitado” “Verdaderamente ha resucitado”

“Cristo e risorto” “ “E veramente risorto”

“Christ est Ressuscite” “En Verite, Il est Resussuscite”

“Kriste aghsdga” “Cheshmaritad aghsdga”

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, April 26, 2020

Sunday, April 26, 2020

New Sunday or Anti-Pascha

Eothinon 1

Sunday of Thomas the Apostle, Called “The Twin”

Hieromartyr Basil, Bishop of Amasea with Venerable Glaphyra

Stephen, Bishop of Perm

Venerable Ioanikios of Devitch in Serbia

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

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

Apolytikion of St. Thomas - Tone 7

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

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Megalynarion for Thomas Sunday – Tone 1

O most radiant lamp, the Theotokos, the immeasurable honor, which is more exalted than all creatures, with praises do we magnify thee.

Next week’s homework:         
Acts 6:1-7 (Myrrh-Bearing Women)
Mark 15:43-16:8 (Myrrh-Bearing Women)

APRIL 26, 2020 – NEW SUNDAY OR ANTI-PASCHA:  SUNDAY OF THOMAS THE APOSTLE, CALLED “THE TWIN”

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, APRIL 26 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Najla Arida, Mary Ayoub, Helen Cook, James J. Coury, Antoine Khalil Debbas, Fred Dibbs, George Fadool, Marie Farkouh, Raymond Farkouh, Jean Haddad, Albert Hanna, Michael Howie, George Kaiatt, Yvonne Khoury, Edward S. Mackoul, Alex Mashnouk, Vivian Massab, Viola Mesnooh, Linda and William Nafash, Victoria and Esber Najjar, Stanley Najjar, Donald O. Page, Rose and Abraham Saba, Charles Norman Sabah, Nazira and Gabriel Samen, Mary Savarese, Felipe Trabulsi, Adele Trisciuzzi, John Wizeman,,and Albert Zarr.  Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 3 – George Adams, Asma Arida, Edward Ateyeh, Helen Cook, James Coury, George Deeb, Edward Farkouh, Diane Elkas Grinell, Margaret Hanna, Rose Hanna, Nour El-Khoury, Yvonne Khoury, Jacob Kaibney, Olga Haick Kent, Mary Khoury, Nesta Khoury, Rose Massab, Gebron Matar, Edward Migdalene, Haleem Migdalene, Gladys and Theodore Sadaka, Gabriel and Nazira Samen, John Samen, Adal Saleeby, Salma Torpey, Nada Traboulsi, and Viola Mesnooh.  Memory eternal!

Michele Ateyeh will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her father, the servant of God Edward Ateyeh.  Memory eternal!

Peter Elkas will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his sister, the handmaiden of God Diane Elkas Grinell.  Memory eternal!

Georgette Macrina and Louise Sahadi will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her aunt, the handmaiden of God Salma Sahadi Torpey.  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 an online “chat.”

HOLY BREAD – Hanade and Ghassan Maalouf offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of April for the health of the servant of God George Maalouf.  Many years!  Gloria Darzi also offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for April for the repose of the soul of her mother, Isabel Araman Zain, a former member of the Ladies of St. Mary’s.  Memory eternal!  Donors are welcome for May and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FASTING DISCIPLINE – This week we return to our typical pattern of fasting on Wednesday and Friday; however, some within the Patriarchate of Antioch suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension (May 28).  There is no kneeling until the Feast of Pentecost (June 7).

FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Roy Abou Naoum, Valerie Clements, Nadim Dahdouh, Aline Farkouh, George Farkouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, Gloria Harris, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Loulou Malouf, Philip Mantia, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Audrey Sahadi, Charlie Sahadi ,Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).  If a member of your family is in the hospital or recuperating at home, please call the church office and let us know as soon as possible.

PATRIARCH OFFERING – Our pledge envelopes for the month of April included a pink envelope marked “Patriarch Offering.”  The Metropolitan has announced that we will forego this collection this year due to the current financial strain on the parishes.  Several people submitted contributions before this announcement.  We will hold those donations until later in the year and then determine how best to disburse those monies. If anyone is not receiving pledge envelopes, please contact the church office, or see Parish Council Chair Christopher Athineos or Treasurer Diana Kaiami.

MANY THANKS – To Deacon Farid Farkouh, Sonia Abou Naoum, Sandra Arida, Kh. Laila Ellias, Marie Ellias, Wilson Haddad, Andrea Zrake, Anthony Zrake, and Christina Zrake for their beautiful and dedicated service throughout this most unusual Holy Week and Holy Pascha.  We also thank our newly elected Parish Council Chair Christopher Athineos for faithfully attending and live streaming every Holy Week service.  We even learned that he can sing!

LITURGICAL RESOURCES – Online services are available in English at Holy Transfiguration Monastery at www.orthodoxmonasteryellwoodcity.org or in Arabic at Our Lady of Balamand Patriarchal Monastery at www.balamandmonastery.org.lb.  Services are available in print on the Archdiocese website at www.antiochian.org under “Liturgics” at the bottom of the home page.

PLEDGE GIVING – During these extraordinary times we ask everyone to maintain their pledge giving as much as possible.  Please remember that St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online.  Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or check. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

PASTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND – The current crisis provides us the unique opportunity to support each other in many ways.  We encourage our parishioners to contact the office if they need assistance with shopping, cooking, errands or light housework, and we have received offers to help with these tasks from a number of our members.  We also recognize the financial stresses our families are experiencing.  The Pastor’s Discretionary Fund can dispense some financial assistance anonymously and would welcome contributions.  Please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church and write “PDF” in the memo line.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – In these stressful times our Lenten practice of almsgiving is of heightened importance.  Please continue using the traditional FFHP collection boxes.  Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and hold onto your box until we can all return to church.  “When you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”  Matthew 6:3-4

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2020.

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college.  Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2020.  For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

SHAGOURY SCHOLARSHIP – The Edith Shagoury Scholarship Fund offers an award for the coming academic year to an undergraduate student from St. Mary’s Church.  The qualifications for this award are parish participation, scholarship, and financial need.  The amount of the scholarship varies depending on the return on the fund’s investment.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its first award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  The Parish Council is in the process of finalizing the criteria for the award.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

FR. PAUL SCHNEIRLA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – Teen SOYO will once again offer this scholarship in loving memory of our beloved former pastor.  This scholarship is presented on the basis of academic excellence.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

EMAIL ADDRESSES – This pandemic has forced us to communicate through mass emails; however, we do not have a complete census of our members.  Please send us email addresses for all members of your family so that we can distribute current information as fully as possible.

DATES TO REMEMBER

            Saturday, May 2            Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, May 3              Sunday of the Myrr-Bearing Women

Matins, 9:30 AM and Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

            Friday, May 8                Feast of St. John the Divine

            Thursday, May 27         Leavetaking of Holy Pascha

            Friday, May 28              Feast of the Ascension of Christ

            Sunday, June 7             Feast of Pentecost

We will livestream all divine services via twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “Why do they put rubber tires with inner tubes on cars?  So that they give in, collapsing a little with every little stone or pothole in the road, and in this way they pass obstacles.  If the wheels were firm and unyielding, the car wouldn’t be able to move forward.  It would fall apart after a short distance because of the vibration from the small inconsistencies of terrain.  The same thing happens with yielding to others in the family.  In this way many problems are suprassed and continuous spiritual progress is assured.”

-        Elder Epiphanios of Athens

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

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

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

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

 “Christos Anesti”                       “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese”                   “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam”                      “Ha’an Qam”

“Hristos a Inviat”                        “Adeverat a Inviat”

“Cristo ha resucitado”    “Verdaderamente ha resucitado!

            “Cristo e risorto”                        “E veramente risorto”

            “Christ est Ressuscite”               En Verite, Il est Resussuscite”

            “Kriste aghsdga”                        Cheshmaritad aghsdga”

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, April 19, 2020

Sunday, April 19, 2020

Great and Holy Pascha

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

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

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

Hypakoe of Holy Pascha – Tone 4
They who were with Mary came before the dawn, found the stone rolled away from the sepulcher, and heard the angels say unto them, Why seek ye him as man with the dead, who dwells in light eternal?  Behold the grave wrappings; make haste and declare to the world that the Lord is risen, and hath caused death to die; for he is the Son of God, the Savior of mankind.

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8
Though thou, O deathless One, didst descend into the grave, thou didst destroy the power of hell and, as Victor, thou didst rise again, O Christ our God.  Thou didst greet the ointment bearing women, saying, rejoice! Thou didst bestow peace upon thy Disciples, and resurrection upon those that are fallen.

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 1:1-8 (Holy Pascha)
Prokeimenon.  Psalm 117.24, 29.  This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Verse.  Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his mercy endures forever.

IN THE FIRST BOOK, O Theophilos, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commandment through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen.  To them he presented himself alive after his passion by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days, and speaking of the kingdom of God. And while staying with them he charged them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “You heard from me, for John baptized with water, but before many days you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”

So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom of Israel?”  He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth.”

Gospel – John 1:1-17 (Holy Pascha)

IN THE BEGINNING was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made.  In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.  He came for testimony, to bear witness to the light, that all might believe through him.  He was not the light, but was to bear witness to the light.

The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world.  He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world knew him not.  He came to his own, and his own received him not. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God; who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father.  John bore witness to him, and cried, “This is he of whom I said, ‘he who comes after me ranks before me, for he was before me.’” And from his fullness have we all received, grace upon grace.  For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

Next week’s homework:
Acts 12:1-11 (Second Sunday of Holy Pascha)
John 20:19-31 (Thomas Sunday)

APRIL 19, 2020 – GREAT AND HOLY PASCHA

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

CHRIST IS RISEN!  TRULY HE IS RISEN!

NO FASTING – The church prohibits fasting all week due to the joy of the Resurrection.  Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, May 28.  There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 7.

TODAY, APRIL 19 - On Holy Pascha we pray for all “the quick and the dead” of the parish.

NEXT SUNDAY, 26 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Najla Arida, Mary Ayoub, Helen Cook, James J. Coury, Antoine Khalil Debbas, Fred Dibbs, George Fadool, Marie Farkouh, Raymond Farkouh, Jean Haddad, Albert Hanna, Michael Howie, George Kaiatt, Yvonne Khoury, Edward S. Mackoul, Alex Mashnouk, Vivian Massab, Viola Mesnooh, Linda and William Nafash, Victoria and Esber Najjar, Stanley Najjar, Donald O. Page, Rose and Abraham Saba, Charles Norman Sabah, Nazira and Gabriel Samen, Mary Savarese, Felipe Trabulsi, Adele Trisciuzzi, John Wizeman,,and Albert Zarr.  Memory eternal!

Peter G. Elkas will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God George Kaiatt.  Memory eternal!

AGAPE BREAKFAST - Audrey and Charles Sahadi and Robert Sahadi have made their annual donation toward the Breakfast for Holy Pascha, even though it will not occur this year, in loving memory of Najla, Wade and Richard Sahadi, and Ameenie Freiji.  There may be another opportunity when things return to “normal.”  Memory eternal!

HOLY BREAD – Hanade and Ghassan Maalouf offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of April for the health of the servant of God George Maalouf.  Many years!  Gloria Darzi also offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for April for the repose of the soul of her mother, Isabel Araman Zain, a former member of the Ladies of St. Mary’s.  Memory eternal! Donors are welcome for May and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

AGAPE VESPERS – At Agape Vespers at noon on Holy Pascha, April 19, we will read the Gospel in many (maybe 5 this year?) languages.  

PLEDGE GIVING – During these extraordinary times we ask everyone to maintain their pledge giving as much as possible.  Please remember that St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online.  Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or check. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Charlie Sahadi (NYU Rusk), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Valerie Clements, Nadim Dahdouh, Aline Farkouh, George Farkouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Loulou Malouf, Philip Mantia, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Audrey Sahadi, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).  If a member of your family is in the hospital or recuperating at home, please call the church office and let us know as soon as possible.

MANY THANKS – To Deacon Farid Farkouh, Sonia Abou Naoum, Sandra Arida, Kh. Laila Ellias, Marie Ellias, Wilson Haddad, Andrea Zrake, Anthony Zrake, and Christina Zrake for their beautiful and dedicated service throughout this most unusual Holy Week and Holy Pascha.  We also thank our newly elected Parish Council Chair Christopher Athineos for faithfully attending and live streaming every Holy Week service.  We even learned that he can sing!

PASTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND – The current crisis provides us the unique opportunity to support each other in many ways.  We encourage our parishioners to contact the office if they need assistance with shopping, cooking, errands or light housework, and we have received offers to help with these tasks from a number of our members; however, we are beginning to recognize the financial stresses our families are experiencing.  The Pastor’s Discretionary Fund can dispense some financial assistance anonymously and would welcome contributions.  Please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church and write “PDF” in the memo line.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – In these stressful times our Lenten practice of almsgiving is of heightened importance.  Many people will need help to weather this physical and economic crisis. Please continue using the traditional FFHP collection boxes.  Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and hold onto your box until we can all return to church.  “Find out how much God has given you, and from it take what your need; the remainder is needed by others.” Blessed Augustan

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2020.

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college.  Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2020.  For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

SHAGOURY SCHOLARSHIP – The Edith Shagoury Scholarship Fund offers an award for the coming academic year to an undergraduate student from St. Mary’s Church.  The qualifications for this award are parish participation, scholarship, and financial need. The amount of the scholarship varies depending on the return on the fund’s investment.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its first award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  The Parish Council is in the process of finalizing the criteria for the award. Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

FR. PAUL SCHNEIRLA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – Teen SOYO will once again offer this scholarship in loving memory of our beloved former pastor.  This scholarship is presented on the basis of academic excellence. Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

EMAIL ADDRESSES – Please submit or update all your family email addresses so that we can contact our parishioners with timely news.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, April 19 Agape Vespers, 12:00 PM

Thursday, April 23 Feast of the Great Martyr George

Saturday, April 25 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, April 26 Matins, 9:30 and Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

Thursday, May 28 Ascension Thursday

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “As, then, Jonah spent three days and as many nights in the whale’s belly, and was delivered up sound again, so shall we all, who have passed through the three stages of our present life on earth – I mean the beginning, the middle, and the end, of which all this present time consists – rise again.  For there are altogether three intervals of time, the past, the future, and the present. And for this reason the Lord spent so many days in the earth symbolically, thereby teaching clearly that when the fore-mentioned intervals of time have been fulfilled, then shall come our resurrection, which is the beginning of the future age, and the end of this.”

• St. Methodius of Olympus

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

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

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

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

 “Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese” 

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Great and Holy Pascha 2020

Before the symbolical ark, David, God’s forefather, did leap and dance.  Let us, therefore, the holy people, seeing the fulfillment of these symbols, rejoice with divine rejoicing; for Christ the Almighty is risen.

Fourth Ode of the Paschal Canon

Christ is Risen! Indeed, He is Risen!

Reverend Clergy, Esteemed Parish Council members and beloved faithful:

During this bright feast of Holy Pascha, let us not be cast down with thoughts of what we lack but filled with divine rejoicing at all that Christ the Almighty has bestowed on us. No longer do we need an Ark or a Temple to come into the presence of God for Christ has descended into Hades and risen from the dead, “that He might fill all things with Himself.” No longer do we fear death for Christ is the “First-born from the dead” and “He shall be all things, the first in all things.”

Beloved in Christ, although we have spent these days in physical distance from one another, let us nevertheless dance and leap for joy at the Resurrection of Christ unites each one of us to God, to one another, and to the inhabitants of the heavens.

With fervent prayers for a joyous feast of Pascha and a hastening of that day when we will gather together once again in our churches, I remain,

Yours in the Risen Lord,

+JOSEPH

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Bulletin for Sunday, April 12, 2020

Sunday, April 12, 2020

Glorious and Brilliant Feast of the Entrance

of Our Lord Jesus Christ into Jerusalem (Palm Sunday) 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Entrance Hymn of Palm Sunday
Blessed is He Who cometh in the Name of the Lord:  God is the Lord and hath appeared unto us.  Save us, O Son of God, Who didst sit upon the foal of an ass; who sing to Thee.  Allelluia.

Apolytikion of Righteous Lazarus – Tone 1
O Christ God, when thou didst raise Lazarus from the dead, before thy Passion, thou didst confirm the universal resurrection.  Wherefore, we, like babes, carry the insignia of triumph and victory, and cry to thee, O Vanquisher of death, Hosanna in the highest.  Blessed is he that cometh in the Name of the Lord.

Apolytikion of Palm Sunday – Tone 4
O Christ God, when we were buried with thee in Baptism, we became deserving of thy resurrection to immortal life.  Wherefore, we praise thee, crying, Hosanna in the highest, blessed is he that cometh in the Name of the Lord.

Kontakion for Palm Sunday – Tone 6
Upborne upon the heavenly throne, and seated upon the earthly foal, O Christ our God, receive the praises of angels and the hymns of men, exclaiming before thee, Blessed is he that cometh to restore Adam.

Epistle – Philippians 4:4-9 (Palm Sunday)
Prokeimenon.  Psalm 117.26, 1.  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Verse.  Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.  His mercy endures forever.

            BRETHREN, rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.  Let all men know your forbearance.  The Lord is at hand.  Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

            Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.  What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you.

Gospel – John 12:1-18 (Palm Sunday)

            SIX DAYS BEFORE THE PASSOVER, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus who had died was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead.  There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at table with him.  Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment.  But Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, one of his disciples [he who was to betray Jesus], said, “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?”  This he said, not because he cared for the poor but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box he used to take what was put into it.  Jesus said, “Let her alone, let her keep it for the day of my burial.  The poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.”

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

            The next day a great crowd who had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem.  So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying, “Hosanna!  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, the King of Israel!”  And Jesus found a young ass and sat upon it; as it is written, “Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on an ass’s colt.”

            His disciples did not understand this at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that this had been written of him and had been done to him.  The crowd that had been with Jesus when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead bore witness.  The reason why the crowd went to meet Jesus was that they heard he had done this sign.

Next week’s homework:         
Acts 1:1-8 (Great and Holy Pascha)
John 1:1-17 (Great and Holy Pascha)

HOLY WEEK BEGINS THIS EVENING AT 7:00 PM WITH THE BRIDEGROOM MATINS.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

APRIL 12, 2020 – GLORIOUS AND BRILLIANT ENTRANCE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST INTO JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY)

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

TODAY, APRIL 12 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Annetta Absey, Wilfred Jabara, Isabel Araman Zain and Adele Trisciuzzi.  Memory eternal!

Albert Absey offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Annetta Absey.  Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, APRIL 19 - On Holy Pascha we pray for all “the quick and the dead” of the parish.

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 an online “chat.”

HOLY BREAD – Hanade and Ghassan Maalouf offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of April for the health of the servant of God George Maalouf.  Many years!  Gloria Darzi also offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for April for the repose of the soul of her mother, Isabel Araman Zain, a former member of the Ladies of St. Mary’s.  Memory eternal!  Donors are welcome for May and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

TODAY’S USHERS – Members of the Parish Council will serve as ushers.  There is no Church School today, so the children can remain with their parents and do not need to approach the chalice first.  The ushers will assist us in proceeding row by row so that we can distribute Holy Communion “decently and in order.”

FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Philip Mantia, Charlie Sahadi (NYU Rusk), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Valerie Clements, Nadim Dahdouh, Aline Farkouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Loulou Malouf, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Dr. Edward Trabulsi (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).  If a member of your family is in the hospital or recuperating at home, please call the church office and let us know as soon as possible.

HOLY WEEK LITURGICAL SCHEDULE – Please see the schedule below and go to twitch.tv/smaoc for the live stream of all services and where previous services are being archived.

EMAIL ADDRESSES – This pandemic has forced us to communicate through mass emails; however, we do not have a complete census of our members.  Please send us email addresses for all members of your family so that we can distribute current information as fully as possible.

LITURGICAL RESOURCES – Other online services are available in English at Holy Transfiguration Monastery at www.orthodoxmonasteryellwoodcity.org or in Arabic at Our Lady of Balamand Patriarchal Monastery at www.balamandmonastery.org.lb.  Services are also available in print on the Antiochian Archdiocese website at www.antiochian.org under “Liturgics” at the bottom of the home page.

SACRAMENT OF REPENTANCE (CONFESSION) – Holy Week is a time when many believers receive the Sacrament of Repentance (Confession).  Under current circumstances it is not possible to hear confessions in person, but the pastor is available to speak by telephone with anyone who feels the need for spiritual direction or just to talk.  Call either the office or the rectory at the numbers above.

PLEDGE GIVING – During these extraordinary times we ask everyone to maintain their pledge giving as much as possible.  Please remember that St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online.  Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or check. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

PASTOR’S DISCRETIONARY FUND – The current crisis provides us the unique opportunity to support each other in many ways.  We encourage our parishioners to contact the office if they need assistance with shopping, cooking, errands or light housework, and we have received offers to help with these tasks from a number of our members; however, we are beginning to recognize the financial stresses our families are experiencing.  The Pastor’s Discretionary Fund can dispense some financial assistance anonymously and would welcome contributions.  Please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church and write “PDF” in the memo line.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – In these stressful times our Lenten practice of almsgiving is of heightened importance.  Many people will need help to weather this physical and economic crisis.  Please continue using the traditional FFHP collection boxes.  Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and hold onto your box until we can all return to church.  “Find out how much God has given you, and from it take what your need; the remainder is needed by others.”  Blessed Augustan.

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2020.

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college.  Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2020.  For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

SHAGOURY SCHOLARSHIP – The Edith Shagoury Scholarship Fund offers an award for the coming academic year to an undergraduate student from St. Mary’s Church.  The qualifications for this award are parish participation, scholarship, and financial need.  The amount of the scholarship varies depending on the return on the fund’s investment.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its first award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  The Parish Council is in the process of finalizing the criteria for the award.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

FR. PAUL SCHNEIRLA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – Teen SOYO will once again offer this scholarship in loving memory of our beloved former pastor.  This scholarship is presented on the basis of academic excellence.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

PATRIARCH OFFERING – Our pledge envelopes for the month of April included a pink envelope marked “Patriarch Offering.”  The Metropolitan has announced that we will forego this collection this year due to the current financial strain on the parishes; however, donations are still welcome to support the ministries of our Mother Church.  If anyone is not receiving pledge envelopes, please contact the church office, or see Parish Council Chair Christopher Athineos or Treasurer Diana Kiami.

HOLY WEEK SERVICE BOOK – If you wish to obtain a copy of the new service book for Holy Week so that you can follow the services, please order one from the Antiochian Village Bookstore at

VIGIL AT THE TOMB OF CHRIST – Teen SOYO has historically sponsored the Vigil at the Tomb of Christ after the Matins of Holy Saturday with the Lamentations until the Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great on Holy Saturday morning.  This year we must all keep a “virtual” vigil at home.  “Let all mortal flesh keep silent.”

FASTING DISCIPLINE – Today, Palm Sunday, fish, wine and oil are permitted.  During Great and Holy Week (April 13-19) wine and olive oil are permitted on Holy Thursday (April 16) morning after the Divine Liturgy, and wine is permitted on Holy Saturday (April 18) after the Divine Liturgy.  There is no fasting on Holy Pascha (April 19) and throughout Bright Week (April 19-26).

DATES TO REMEMBER

            Sunday, April 12            Bridegroom Matins, 7:00 PM

            Monday, April 13           Bridegroom Matins, 7:00 PM

            Tuesday, April 14          Bridegroom Matins, 7:00 PM

            Wednesday, April 15     Matins of Holy Thursday, 7:00 PM

            Thursday, April 16         Vesperal Divine Liturgy (Institution of the Eucharist), 10:00 AM

                                                Matins of Holy Friday with Twelve Gospels, 7:00 PM

Friday, April 17              Royal Hours, 10:00 AM

                                                Great Vespers and Descent from the Cross, 3:00 PM

                                                Matins of Holy Saturday and Lamentations, 7:00 PM

            Saturday, April 18          Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great, 10:00 AM

                                                Nocturne, Orthros, Paschal Divine Liturgy, 10:00 PM

            Sunday, April 19            Agape Vespers, 12:00 PM

FROM THE FATHERS – “At the approach of a great feast you must watch yourself with particular care.  The enemy endeavors beforehand to chill your heart towards th event being celebrated, so that you will not honor it by whole-heartedly considering its reality…We must overcome the enemy by forcing ourselves to meditate and pray devoutly.”

-        St. John of Kronstadt