Bulletin for Sunday, January 17, 2021

Sunday, January 17, 2021

Venerable and God-Bearing Father Anthony the Great

Tone 7 and Eothinon 10

Anthony the New, Ascetic of Berrea in Macedonia

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 7

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

 Apolytikion of the Righteous Anthony the Great, the God-Mantled – Tone 4

 Thou didst become like the zealous Elijah in his condition, and followed John the Baptist in his upright ways, becoming a dweller in the wilderness and an establisher of the universe by thy prayer, O Father Anthony.  Wherefore, intercede thou with Christ God to save our souls.

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple – Tone 1

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

Epistle – Hebrews 13:17-21 (St. Anthony the Great)

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

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

             BRETHREN, obey your leaders and submit to them; for they are keeping watch over your souls, as men who will have to give account.  Let them do this joyfully, and not sadly, for that would be of no advantage to you.

            Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things.  I urge you the more earnestly to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner.

            Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in you that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory forever and ever.  Amen.

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

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          I Timothy 1:15-17 (Thirty-first Sunday after Pentecost)

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

 HOLY BREAD – Rima and Elias Hazem and Family offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of January in loving memory of the servants of God George Alsifi, Rahma Hazem, and Michael Hazem.  Memory eternal!  Donors are welcome for February and succeeding months.  Deacon Farid Farkouh also offers the Holy Bread in January for the repose of the souls of his grandparents, Archpriest Faried and Kh. Wasilla Farkouh.  Memory eternal!  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

 FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Alissar Dalloul, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, Dr. Jean, Drew, Giselle and Sean McCrossan, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

JANUARY 17, 2021 – VENERABLE AND GOD-BEARING FATHER ANTHONY THE GREAT

 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 reverence the cross and to partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal.  Please introduce yourself to our pastor, and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

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

 TODAY, JANUARY 17 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Ida and Gabriel Ashie, Alexander Azar, Barbara Boragi, Leon Ayoub Brown, Loretta Fiani, Rev. Melatios Fiani, Nora Hawa, Ramez Elhelou, Alex A. Howie, Riad Malouf, Frank Morgan, James D. Pappas, Ethel K. Phillips, Farieda Sarafien, Robert Samara, Renate M. and George Sheheri, Minas Sparsidis, Edmund Swaya, and Thomas A. Zarr.  Memory eternal!

 Sandra Arida offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the handmaidens of God Louise Hamwi and Pauline Katen.  Memory eternal!

 Drs. Amal and Gregory Dalack offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Gladys Merhige Schroeder.  Memory eternal!

 Carol Furer offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Rev. Meletios Fiani and Loretta Fiani.  Memory eternal!

 Claudette Jabara Hadad offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her sister-in-law, the handmaiden of God Louise Hadad Hamwi.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 24 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Margaret Assatly, Laura Sayeg Awad, Georgette Captain, George Corey, Jameel Farhood, Siham Damalts, Katherine B. Cury,  George Elkas, Eleanor Forzly, Claudette Golam, Josephine Hadad,  Yvonne Hebeeka, Tofeek Kaidy, Louise and John Kalesh, Ned Kalesh, Viola Kalesh, Constantine Karram, John Kerge, Naji Khoury, Athina Basheer Lattof, Walter Lattof, Marie Meena, Mitchell Merhige, Philip Merhige, Edgar Saadi, Victoria Saadi, Barbara Salamy, Madeleine H. Salamy, Suraya and Samuel Samaha, William Shamoun,  Alexander G. Orfaly, Jr.,  Adele Simon, and Gail Hall Zarr.  Memory eternal!

 Gabriel Golam will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his beloved wife, the handmaiden of God Claudette Golam.  Memory eternal!

 George Salamy will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Barbara Salamy.  Memory eternal!

Victor Samaha will offer Prayers of Oblation the repose of the souls of his parents, Suraya and Samuel Samaha.  Memory eternal!

 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.

 CHURCH ATTENDANCE - We have increased capacity in line with civil and Archdiocese guidelines while still maintaining the social distancing of 6 feet.  There is always a possibility that the church may reach social distance capacity in which case worshippers may wait safely 6 feet apart outside the church.  At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy people outside may enter the church as attendees exit to receive Holy Communion, holy bread, and/or light a candle.  We still ask everyone who wants to attend in person either to call the church office or email pastor@smaoc.org ahead of time.

 BLESSING OF HOMES – The Archdiocese recommends that the traditional blessing of homes following Holy Epiphany must be done with great caution this year due to our current state of high transmission and low hospital capacity in most areas of our Archdiocese.  Clergy may bless the homes of those who request it - following all safety precautions.  Once this current surge subsides, priests can begin blessing and visiting homes at a more usual pace.  Blessings may continue throughout the course of next year.

 When the priest blesses homes during the Epiphany season, the recommendation is that he visit quickly and limit the time to the blessing itself - not staying for dinner or coffee.  Although this is very difficult pastorally, clergy should be careful not to contract the virus at one home and then spread it throughout the parish community.  The Archdiocese also recommends not doing more than one or two per day and postponing the vast majority of house blessings until later in the year when, God willing, the situation improves.

 WINTER COAT DRIVE – The Teen SOYO Winter Coat Drive will continue through February.  Coats, scarves, gloves, blankets, and other cold weather attire are welcome.  Please place your offerings on the table in the vestibule.  We will distribute all items directly to local charities and recipients.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

              Wednesday, January 20          Zoom Classroom Resumes, 7:30 PM

Saturday, January 23        Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Monday, February 1           Evening Divine Liturgy for the Presentation, 7:00 PM

Sunday, February 28            Annual Parish Meeting via twitch.tv/smaoc

We livestream all divine services via https://www.twitch.tv/smaoc.

 FROM THE FATHERS – “Without temptation no one can be saved.”

-        St. Anthony the Great

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, January 10, 2021

Sunday, January 10, 2021

Sunday after the Theophany of Christ

Tone 6 and Eothinon 9

Bishop Gregory of Nyssa

 Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 6

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

 Apolytikion of Epiphany – Tone 1

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of Epiphany – Tone 4

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

Epistle – Ephesians 4:7-13 (Sunday after Epiphany)

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

Verse.  Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

             BRETHREN, grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.  Therefore it is said, “When he ascended on high, he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men.”  In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth?  He who descended is he who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.  And his gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.

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

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

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          Hebrews 13:17-21 (Anthony the Great)

                                               Luke 17;12-19 (Twelfth Sunday of Luke)

 HOLY BREAD – Rima and Elias Hazem and Family offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of January in loving memory of the servants of God George Alsifi, Rahma Hazem, and Michael Hazem.  Memory eternal!  Deacon Farid Farkouh also offers the Holy Bread in January for the repose of the souls of his grandparents, Archpriest Faried and Kh. Wasilla Farkouh.  Memory eternal!  Donors are welcome for February and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

 FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Alissar Dalloul, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, Dr. Jean, Drew, Giselle and Sean McCrossan, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home). 

 JANUARY 10, 2021 – SUNDAY AFTER THE THEOPHANY OF CHRIST

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

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

 TODAY, JANUARY 10 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Eli T. Abdallah, Juad Arida, Pearl Arida, Nora and Kalil Ballan, Samia Arida, Adele Azeez, Mary Fadool, Ameenie Freije, Edward Ghazal, Emily Ghazal, Pauline Haddad, James Hamod, Maria Hindelly, Tofeek Kaidy, Leila M. Khouri, George John Nahas, Edma Saab, Madeleine H. Salamy, Alberta Samaha, Alexander Trabolsi, Nora Trefz, and Emil Tweel.  Memory eternal!

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

 Albert Absey offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Odette George, sister of Richard Zogob.  Memory eternal!

 Helen and Fred Hadad offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his sister, the handmaiden of God Louise Hamwi.  Memory eternal!

 Mary Ann and Jeffrey Samaha offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Alberta Samaha.  Memory eternal!

 Audree and Siham Yacoub offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Pauline Haddad.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 17 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Ida and Gabriel Ashie, Alexander Azar, Barbara Boragi, Leon Ayoub Brown, Loretta Fianni, Rev. Melatios Fianni, Nora Hawa, Ramez Elhelou, Alex A. Howie, Riad Malouf, Frank Morgan, James D. Pappas, Ethel K. Phillips, Farieda Sarafien, Robert Samara, Renate M. and George Sheheri, Minas Sparsidis, Edmund Swaya, and Thomas A. Zarr.  Memory eternal!

 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.

 CHURCH ATTENDANCE - We have increased capacity in line with civil and Archdiocese guidelines while still maintaining the social distancing of 6 feet.  There is always a possibility that the church may reach social distance capacity in which case worshippers may wait safely 6 feet apart outside the church.  At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy people outside may enter the church as attendees exit to receive Holy Communion, holy bread, and/or light a candle.  We still ask everyone who wants to attend in person either to call the church office or email pastor@smaoc.org ahead of time.

 BLESSING OF HOMES – The Archdiocese recommends that the traditional blessing of homes following Holy Epiphany must be done with great caution this year due to our current state of high transmission and low hospital capacity in most areas of our Archdiocese.  Clergy may bless the homes of those who request it - following all safety precautions.  Once this current surge subsides, priests can begin blessing and visiting homes at a more usual pace.  Blessings may continue throughout the course of next year.

 When the priest blesses homes during the Epiphany season, the recommendation is that he visit quickly and limit the time to the blessing itself - not staying for dinner or coffee.  Although this is very difficult pastorally, clergy should be careful not to contract the virus at one home and then spread it throughout the parish community.  The Archdiocese also recommends not doing more than one or two per day and postponing the vast majority of house blessings until later in the year when, God willing, the situation improves.

 WINTER COAT DRIVE – The Teen SOYO Winter Coat Drive will continue through February.  Coats, scarves, gloves, blankets, and other cold weather attire are welcome.  Please place your offerings on the table in the vestibule.  We will distribute all items directly to local charities and recipients.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

               Monday, January 11                  Parish Council, 7:30 via Zoom

Saturday, January 16                Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, February 28                  Annual Parish Meeting via twitch.tv/smaoc

We livestream all divine services via smaoc - Twitch.

 FROM THE FATHERS – “Just as when we are learning the art of painting, the teacher puts before us on a panel a beautifully executed model, and it is necessary for each student to imitate in every way the beauty of that model on his own panel, so that the panels of all will be adorned in accordance with the example of the beauty set before them; in the same way, since every person is the painter of his own life, and choice is the craftsman of the work, and the virtues are the paints for executing the image, there is no small danger that the imitation may change the Prototype into a hateful and ugly person instead of reproducing the master form if we sketch in the character of evil with muddy colors.  But, since it is possible, one must prepare the pure colors of the virtues, mixing them with each other according to some artistic formula for the imitation of beauty, so that we become an image of the image, having achieved the beauty of the Prototype through activity as a kind of imitation, as did Paul, who became an ‘imitator of Christ,’ through his life of virtue .”

-        St. Gregory of Nyssa

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, January 3, 2021

Sunday, January 3, 2021

Sunday before Theophany

Tone 5 and Eothinon 8

Holy Prophet Malachi

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 5

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

 Apolytikion of the Sunday before Epiphany – Tone 4

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion for the Sunday before Epiphany – Tone 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          II Timothy 4:5-8 (Sunday before Theophany)

                                                Mark 1:1-8 (Sunday after Theophany)

 HOLY BREAD – Rima and Elias Hazem and Family offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of January in loving memory of the servants of God George Alsifi, Rahma Hazem, and Michael Hazem.  Memory eternal!  Deacon Farid Farkouh also offers the Holy Bread in January for the repose of the souls of his grandparents, Archpriest Faried and Kh. Wasilla Farkouh.  Memory eternal!  Donors are welcome for February and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

 FASTING DISICIPLINE – There is no fasting through January 4, but January 5 is a strict fast day.

 FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Alissar Dalloul, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Dr. Jean, Drew, Giselle and Sean McCrossan, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), Richard Zogob, and Rose Zrake (at home).

JANUARY 3, 2021 – SUNDAY BEFORE THEOPHANY

 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 reverence the cross and to partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal.  Please introduce yourself to our pastor, and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

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

 TODAY, JANUARY 3 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Fred Arida, Dr. Hickmet Arida, Economous Faried Farkouh, Khouria Wassila Farkouh, Anna Habib, Gabriel Hamatie, Mary Hamwi, Olga Kalaf, Robert Malouf, Madeleine Malouf, Rose Merhige, Sally Renieri, Ronald Sadaka, Melia Saydah, Edward Saydah, Edward Shoucaire, Anne Marie Smatt, Demetri Zayat, and Nazli N. Zayat.  Memory eternal!

 Renee Abate offers Prayers of Oblation for the health and welfare of her daughter-in-law, the handmaiden of God Jennifer Abate.  Many years!

 Dr. Alice B. Farkouh offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her husband, former Parish Council Chairman Charles Farkouh, Sr.  Memory eternal!

 Susan and George Hounsell offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Odette George, sister of Richard Zogob.  Memory eternal!

 Both the Ladies of St. Mary’s and the Family of Gladys Schroeder offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 10 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Eli T. Abdallah, Juad Arida, Pearl Arida, Nora and Kalel Ballan, Samia Arida, Adele Azeez, Mary Fadool, Ameenie Freije, Edward Ghazal, Emily Ghazal, Pauline Haddad, James Hamod, Maria Hindelly, Tofeek Kaidy, Leila M. Khouri, George John Nahas, Edma Saab, Madeleine H. Salamy, Alberta Samaha, Alexander Trabolsi, Nora Trefz, and Emil Tweel.  Memory eternal!

 FEAST OF EPHIPHANY – We will celebrate Festal Matins on Tuesday, January 5 at 6:00 PM and the Divine Liturgy at 7:00 PM.  If Metropolitan JOSEPH comes this year, it will be on Sunday, January 10.  Whether His Eminence comes or not, in either case we will bless the waters on that day.  We will provide instructions on the blessing of homes in next week’s bulletin.

 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.

MEMORY ETERNAL!  We are saddened to announce that the handmaiden of God Louise Hamwi departed this life in the hope of the Resurrection on Tuesday at her home in Little Silver, NJ.  We extend our sympathies to her husband Philip and their sons Mark and Gregory and daughter Christine as well as to her brother, our long-time Treasurer, Fred Hadad.  Arrangements are to be determined.

 CHURCH ATTENDANCE - We have increased capacity in line with civil and Archdiocese guidelines while still maintaining the social distancing of 6 feet.  There is always a possibility that the church may reach social distance capacity in which case worshippers may wait safely 6 feet apart outside the church.  At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy people outside may enter the church as attendees exit to receive Holy Communion, holy bread, and/or light a candle.  We still ask everyone who wants to attend in person either to call the church office or email pastor@smaoc.org ahead of time.

 CHRISTMAS OFFERINGS – We acknowledge the Christmas offerings of Rose Abdallah, Albert Absey, Sandra Arida, Joan Bacon, Michelle Braca, Marie and Charles Bryant, Claudete Budai, Rhonda Byrnes, Christopher Castley, Sandra and Robert Coogan, Gloria Darzi, Barbara Deeb, Janice Deeb, Fr. Michael and Laila Ellias, Marie Ellias, Jessica and Matthew Ellias, Anita and John Eyd, Dr. Alice B. Farkouh, Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh, Diana Finger, Josette and John Generale, Tamara and Giorgi Guguberidze, Louise and Philip Hamwi,  Marianne Hindelly, Krassimira Ivanchev, George Khoury,  Victor Khoury, Nicole and George Khouzami, Diana Kaiami, Renee and Wayne Landry, Paul and Lily Lang, Anne and Sabry Mackoul, Carol Makhoul, Corrine and Michael Mallia, Linda Mantia, Denise McBride, Dr. George and Kathryn Nassour, Tony Nehme, Dorothy Orrill, David Paris, Dr. Amer and Chaza Rafiaa, Jacqueline and William Robinson, Marian Russo, Karen Sadaka, Theodore Sadaka, Audrey and Charles Sahadi, Louise Sahadi, Robert Sahadi, Kerry and Ron Sahadi, Linda and George Salamy, Roland Salloum, Wanda Salloum, Victor Samaha,  Brenda Samman, Peter Schneirla, Eve Schornstein, Barbara and Dennis Shawah, Karen and Carl Slater, Anna and Peter Sofides, Gary Speer, Karen and Matthew Spolar, Hiam Sukkarieh, Karen and Tony Tadross, Irene Tashji, Marianne Trabulssi, Miriam Zahka, Dr. Sam and Diane Zamaria, Anna Zarr, and Malakie and Richard Zogob.

 VIRTUAL CHRISTMAS PAGEANT – If you have not already done so, please do yourself a favor and spend 17 minutes viewing the astonishing Virtual Christmas Pageant our Church School assembled.  Go to https://youtu.be/Z5DfvyqIsLg.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

Tuesday, January 5                   Festal Matins, 6:00 PM and Divine Liturgy 7:00 PM

Wednesday, January 6               Feast of Theophany/Epiphany

Saturday, January 9                  Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Monday, January 11               Parish Council, 7:30 via Zoom

Sunday, February 28                Annual Parish Meeting via twitch.tv/smaoc

We livestream all divine services via smaoc - Twitch.

 FROM THE FATHERS – “To truly see God is to never satisfy one’s desire for Him.”

-        St. Gregory of Nyssa

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, December 27, 2020

Sunday, December 27, 2020

Sunday after the Nativity of Christ

Tone 3 and Eothinon 7

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

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 4

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 4

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

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

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

 Apolytikion of St. Stephen – Tone 4

 The crown of the Kingdom hath adorned the brow of thy head because of the contests that thou hast endured for Christ God, thou first of the martyred saints; for when thou hadst censured the Jews’ madness, thou sawest Christ thy Savior standing at the right hand of the Father.  O Stephen, ever pray Him for us that He would save our souls.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 3

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

 Epistle – Acts 6:8-15; 7:1-5, 47-60 (Proto-Martyr Stephen the Archdeacon)

 Prokeimenon.  Psalm 18:4, 1.  His sound has gone forth into all the earth.

Verse.  The heavens declare the glory of God!

             IN THOSE DAYS, Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.  Then arose some of those who were of the synagogue, which was called the synagogue of the Libertines, and of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those from Cilicia and Asia, and they disputed with Stephen.  But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit by which he spoke.  Then they secretly instigated men, who said:  “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.”  And they stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes, and they came upon him and seized hi and brought him to the Sanhedrin, and set up false witnesses who said:  “This man never ceases to speak words against this poly place and the Law; for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place, and will change the customs which Moses handed down to us.”  And gazing at him, all who sat in the Sanhedrin saw that his face was like the face of an angel.

            And the chief priest said:  “Are these things so?”  And he said:  “Men, brethren and fathers, hear me.  The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham when he was in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran, and said to him:  ‘Depart from your land and from your kindred and go into the land which I will show you.’  Then he departed from the land of the Chaldeans, and lived in Haran.  And after his father died, God removed him from there into this land in which you are now living; yet he gave him no inheritance in it, not even a foot-step.”

            “But Solomon built a house for Him.  Yet the Most High does not dwell in houses made with hands; as the prophet says:  ‘Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool.  What house will you build for me? Says the Lord, or what is the place of my rest?  Did not my hand make all these things?’  You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit.  As your fathers did, so do you.  Which of the prophets did not your fathers persecute?  And they killed those who announced beforehand the coming of the Righteous One, whom you have now become betrayers and murderers, you who received the Law as it was ordained by angels, and did not keep it.”

            Now when they heard these things, they were cut to the heart and they ground their teeth against him.  But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God; and he said:  “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”  But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed upon him with one accord.  Then they cast him out of the city and stoned him; and the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul.  And as they were stoning Stephen, he called upon the Lord and said:  “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”  And he knelt down and cried with a loud voice:  “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”  And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

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

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

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

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          II Timothy 4:5-8 (Sunday before Theophany)

                                                Mark 1:1-8 (Sunday after Theophany)

 HOLY BREAD – Marie Zarr and Gale Zarr offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of December for the good health of all the ladies and gentlemen who have assisted with previous Christmas Boutiques.  Many years!  They also offer the Holy Bread in memory of our dearly departed ladies and gentlemen who helped with prior Christmas Boutiques.  Memory eternal!  Donors are welcome for January and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

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

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

DECEMBER 27, 2020 – SUNDAY AFTER THE NATIVITY OF CHRIST

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

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

 TODAY, DECEMBER 27 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Julie Aucar, Rachel Azar, George Couri, Anne DeMaio, Mary Elkat, Shukri Farkouh, Rose Hossan, Sabry Jallad, Mitchell Rezk, Hind Saadi, Wade Sahadi, Victor S. Samara, Najeeb Sydnawey, and Ines Tahan.  Memory eternal!

 George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of Elaine and Leonard Gelstein of Brooklyn and Metropolitan Archbishop Policarpo of Spain and Portugal, Archpriest Benjamin, and Efim Ciubuc of Madrid, Spain, and Lora Wilkinson of Singapore.  Many years!

 Dr. Bassam and Naziha Aldaia will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Kazon, Michael, Wajih, Nicola, Samiha, and Helen.  Memory eternal!

 Josette and John Generale and Joyce Katen offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Odette George, sister of Richard Zogob.  Memory eternal!

 Clemencia Saleeby offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Terri Wardi.  Memory eternal!

 The Sahadi, Whelan, and Gillam Families will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Najla and Wade Sahadi, Richard Sahadi, and Ameenie Frieje.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 3 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Fred Arida, Dr. Hickmet Arida, Economous Faried Farkouh, Khouria Wassila Farkouh, Anna Habib, Gabriel Hamatie, Mary Hamwi, Olga Kalaf, Robert Malouf, Madeleine Malouf, Rose Merhige, Sally Renieri, Ronald Sadaka, Melia Saydah, Edward Saydah, Edward Shoucaire, Anne Marie Smatt, Demetri Zayat, and Nazli N. Zayat.  Memory eternal!

 Both the Ladies of St. Mary’s and the Family of Gladys Schroeder will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul.  Memory eternal!

 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), Anna Athineos, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Alissar Dalloul, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, Jean, Drew, Giselle and Sean McCrossan, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), Richard Zogob, and Rose Zrake (at home).

 CHURCH ATTENDANCE - We have increased capacity in line with civil and Archdiocese guidelines while still maintaining the social distancing of 6 feet.  There is always a possibility that the church may reach social distance capacity in which case worshippers may wait safely 6 feet apart outside the church.  At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy people outside may enter the church as attendees exit to receive Holy Communion, holy bread, and/or light a candle.  We still ask everyone who wants to attend in person either to call the church office or email pastor@smaoc.org ahead of time.

 WINTER COAT DRIVE – The Teen SOYO Winter Coat Drive will continue through February.  Coats, scarves, gloves, blankets, and other cold weather attire are welcome.  Please place your offerings on the table in the vestibule.  We will distribute all items to local charities and recipients.

 GIVING OPPORTUNITIES – The Pastor’s Discretionary Account welcomes contributions during the Christmas-Epiphany season to support cases of urgent need both inside and outside the parish.  Make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church earmarked “PDA.”

 YEAR END GIVING – A person over age 70½ can make a gift to St. Mary’s Church from their IRA without increasing their taxable income or paying any additional tax.  These tax-free rollover gifts can be of any amount up to $100,000 and offset the Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) for 2020.

 DATES TO REMEMBER

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

Saturday, January 2               Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Tuesday, January 5               Festal Matins, 6:00 PM and Divine Liturgy 7:00 PM

Wednesday, January 6          Feast of Theophany/Epiphany

Saturday, January 9              Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

                            Churching of Juliana Denise Rich

Monday, January 11            Parish Council, 7:30 via Zoom

Thursday, January 14          Teen Meeting, 7:30 via Zoom

Sunday, February 28          Annual Parish Meeting via twitch.tv/smaoc

We livestream all divine services via smaoc - Twitch.

 FROM THE FATHERS – “People in other religions go from door to door to get converts.  I’m not asking you to go door to door.  I am asking you to go from your door into the Church’s door.  Do not be absent from the Feast of the Nativity.”

-        His Eminence Metropolitan JOSEPH

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Friday, December 25, 2020

DECEMBER 25, 2020 –

THE NATIVITY OF OUR LORD,

GOD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST IN THE FLESH

 Hymns and Readings for the Feast

 Refrain of the Second Antiphon – O Son of God, born of a Virgin, save us who sing unto Thee.  Alleluia.

During the Little Entrance - Apolytikion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 4

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

 Entrance Hymn – Out of the womb, before the morning star, have I begotten thee:  The Lord hath sworn and will not repent:  thou art a priest forever, after the Order of Melchizedech.  O Son of God, who wast born of a Virgin, save us who sing unto Thee.  Alleluia.

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 4

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 3

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Megalynarion – Tone 1 - Magnify, O my soul, her who is more honorable and more exalted in glory than the heavenly hosts.  I behold a strange and wonderful mystery:  the cave a heaven, the Virgin a cherubic throne, and the manger a noble place in which hath lain Christ the uncontained God.  Let us, therefore, praise and magnify him.

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

DECEMBER 25, 2020 – THE NATIVITY OF OUR LORD, GOD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST IN THE FLESH

 CHRIST IS BORN!  GLORIFY HIM!

 From Christmas Day until January 4, inclusive, there is a general dispensation from all fasting.

 TODAY, DECEMBER 25 - We pray for the repose of the souls of all of our departed loved ones in Christ.  Memory eternal!

 Maire and Tony Alfeck of Mideast Bakery have donated today’s Holy Bread of Oblation for the health of their family.  Many years!

 FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Anna Athineos, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Alissar Dalloul, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, Dr. Jean, Drew, Giselle and Sean McCrossan, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), Richard Zogob, and Rose Zrake (at home).

 CHRISTMAS OFFERINGS – We acknowledge the Christmas offerings of Rose Abdallah, Albert Absey, Sandra Arida, Joan Bacon, Michelle Braca, Marie and Charles Bryant, Claudete Budai, Rhonda Byrnes, Sandra and Robert Coogan, Gloria Darzi, Barbara Deeb, Janice Deeb, Fr. Michael and Laila Ellias, Marie Ellias, Jessica and Matthew Ellias, Anita and John Eyd, Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh, Diana Finger, Josette and John Generale, Tamara and Giorgi Guguberidze, Louise and Philip Hamwi,  Marianne Hindelly, Krassimira Ivanchev, George Khoury,  Victor Khoury, Nicole and George Khouzami, Renee and Wayne Landry, Paul and Lily Lang, Anne and Sabry Mackoul, Carol Makhoul, Corrine and Michael Mallia, Linda Mantia, Denise McBride, Dr. George and Kathryn Nassour, Tony Nehme, Dorothy Orrill, David Paris, Dr. Amer and Chaza Rafiaa, Marian Russo, Karen Sadaka, Theodore Sadaka, Audrey and Charles Sahadi, Louise Sahadi, Robert Sahadi, Kerry and Ron Sahadi, Linda and George Salamy, Roland Salloum, Wanda Salloum, Victor Samaha,  Brenda Samman, Peter Schneirla, Eve Schornstein, Barbara and Dennis Shawah, Anna and Peter Sofides, Gary Speer, Karen and Matthew Spolar, Hiam Sukkarieh, Karen and Tony Tadross, Irene Tashji, Marianne Trabulssi, Miriam Zahka, Dr. Sam and Diane Zamaria, Anna Zarr, and Malakie and Richard Zogob.

 FEAST OF EPHIPHANY – We will celebrate an Evening Divine Liturgy on Tuesday, January 5 at 6:00 PM.  If Metropolitan JOSEPH comes this year, it will be on Sunday, January 10.  Whether His Eminence comes or not, in either case we will bless the waters on that day.  We will provide instructions on the blessing of homes in next week’s bulletin.

 CHRIST IS BORN!  GLORIFY HIM!

 A PARISH OF THE ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA

Bulletin for Sunday, December 20, 2020

Sunday, December 20, 2020

Sunday before the Nativity of Christ (The Genealogy)

Tone 3 and Eothinon 6

Hieromartyr Ignatius of Antioch, the God-Bearer

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 3

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

 Apolytikion of the Forefeast of the Nativity – Tone 4

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

 Apolytikion of the Sunday before the Nativity – Tone 2

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion for the Preparation for the Nativity – Tone 3

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

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

 Prokeimenon.  Hymn of the Three Children, Daniel 3:26-27.  Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our Fathers.

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

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

            And what more shall I say?  For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets – who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, received promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched raging fire, escaped the edge of the sword, won strength out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.  Women received their dead by resurrection.  Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, that they might rise again to a better life.  Others suffered mocking and scourging, and even chains and imprisonment.  They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tempted, they were killed with the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, ill-treated – of whom the world was not worthy – wandering over deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          Acts 6:8-7:5, 47-60 (Protomartyr Stephen)

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

 HOLY BREAD – Marie Zarr and Gale Zarr offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of December for the good health of all the ladies and gentlemen who have assisted with previous Christmas Boutiques.  Many years!  They also offer the Holy Bread in memory of our dearly departed ladies and gentlemen who helped with prior Christmas Boutiques.  Memory eternal!  Donors are welcome for January and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

 CHURCH ATTENDANCE - We have increased capacity in line with civil and Archdiocese guidelines while still maintaining the social distancing of 6 feet.  There is always a possibility that the church may reach social distance capacity in which case worshippers may wait safely 6 feet apart outside the church.  At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy people outside may enter the church as attendees exit to receive Holy Communion, holy bread, and/or light a candle.  We still ask everyone who wants to attend in person either to call the church office or email pastor@smaoc.org ahead of time.

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

 DECEMBER 20, 2020 – SUNDAY BEFORE THE NATIVITY OF CHRIST (GENEALOGY)

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

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

 TODAY, DECEMBER 20 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Evelyn L. Deschner, Albert N. Dibs, Anna Ghiz, Nora and Nicholas Hawa, George Khoury, Malvina Khouri, Nabeh Kotite, Haleem Migdalene, Zahia Migdalene, Robert A. Monier, Andrew N. Samaan, William S. Schneirla Jr., Alfred E. Shagoury, Toufek Shagoury, Arthur Swaya, Emily Swaya, Lily Sydnawey, Mary Traboulcy, Bassem Trabulsi, George Zain, and Rose Zarr.  Memory eternal!

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

 Elizabeth Farkouh Keller offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Walter Anderson.  Memory eternal!

 George Khoury, Jr. offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of his parents, Toni and George Khoury, Sr.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Julie Aucar, Rachel Azar, George Couri, Anne DeMaio, Mary Elkat, Shukri Farkouh, Rose Hossan, Sabry Jallad, Mitchell Rezk, Hind Saadi, Wade Sahadi, Victor S. Samara, Najeeb Sydnawey, and Ines Tahan.  Memory eternal!

 Dr. Bassam and Naziha Aldaia will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Kazon, Michael, Wajih, Nicola, Samiha, and Helen.  Memory eternal!

 The Sahadi, Whelan, and Gillam Families will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Najla and Wade Sahadi, Richard Sahadi, and Ameenie Frieje.  Memory eternal!

 FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Anna Athineos, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Alissar Dalloul, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), Richard Zogob, and Rose Zrake (at home).

ENDOWMENT FUND – Having sold the house and settled the estate of her parents, Kh. Laila has made a donation to the Endowment Fund in loving memory of Dr. John and Shamseh Dalack. Memory eternal!

 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.

 CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES – Teen SOYO has concluded its Advent Canned Food Drive, but the Winter Coat Drive will continue through February.  Coats, scarves, gloves, blankets, and other cold weather attire are welcome.  We will distribute all items to local charities and recipients.

 ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH – Did you know that the Order of St. Ignatius provides scholarship assistance to any camper who wishes to attend the Antiochian Village each summer?  Please prayerfully consider joining the Order.  See Fr. Michael, Order Ambassadors Marian Russo and Diana Kitchen, or any member of the Order for more information.  We have four new commitments.

 GIVING OPPORTUNITIES – The Pastor’s Discretionary Account welcomes contributions during the Christmas-Epiphany season to support cases of urgent need both inside and outside the parish.  Make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church earmarked “PDA.”

 YEAR END GIVING – A person over age 70½ can make a gift to St. Mary’s Church from their IRA without increasing their taxable income or paying any additional tax.  These tax-free rollover gifts can be of any amount up to $100,000 and offset the Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) for 2020.

 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 an estate.  A bequest could also be the residue of an estate after all gifts have been made to heirs.

 DATES TO REMEMBER

  Thursday, December 24          Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil, 10:00 AM

Friday, December 25              Festal Matins, 9:30 AM, Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

Saturday, December 26          Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Wednesday, January 6            Great Feast of Theophany/Epiphany

Sunday, February 28              Annual Parish Meeting

We livestream all divine services via smaoc - Twitch.

 FROM THE FATHERS – “May nothing entice me until happily I make my way to Jesus Christ.  Fire, cross, struggles with wild beasts, wrenching of bones, mangling of limbs – let them come to me, provided only I make my way to Jesus Christ.”

-        St. Ignatius of Antioch the God-Bearer

 A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, December 13, 2020

Sunday, December 13, 2020

Sunday of the Forefathers (Ancestors) of Christ

Tone 2 and Eothinon 5

St. Herman of Alaska, Enlightener of the Aleuts

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 2

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

 Apolytikion of the Forefathers – Tone 2

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

 Apolytikion of St. Herman of Alaska – Tone 4

 Blessed ascetic of the northern wilds and gracious intercessor for the whole world, teacher of the Orthodox Faith, good instructor of piety, adornment of Alaska and joy of all America, holy Father Herman, pray to Christ God that He save our souls.

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion for the Preparation for the Nativity – Tone 3

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          Colossians 3:4-11 (Ancestors of Christ)

                                              Luke 14:16-24 (Forefathers of Christ)

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

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

DECEMBER 13, 2020 – SUNDAY OF THE HOLY FOREFATHERS (ANCESTORS) OF CHRIST

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

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

 TODAY, DECEMBER 13 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Bertha Abouchar, Josephine Awad, Alexander E. Deeb, Kazon El-Hajj, Jean Fadool, Charles Farkouh, Richard Farkouh, Hafina Haddad, Gloria Hawaweeny, James Jobe, Najla Khoury, Nabeeha Klam, Edward Mannessa, Edward Mamary, Elizabeth Nader, Michael Takla, Edward Thabit, Zouhat Thabit, Eli Zrake, Isabel Zrake, Najeeb Zrake, and George Zrike.  Memory eternal!

 The Ellias Family offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of Kh. Laila Ellias on the occasion of her **th birthday.  Many years!

 Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh and Irene Tashji offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Gladys Schroeder.  Memory eternal!

 Marian Russo offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nellie Ellien, Elena Paris, Gladys Schroeder, and Virginia Zarr.  Memory eternal!

 Audrey and Charles Sahadi offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Elena Paris.  Memory eternal!

 Louise Sahadi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Gloria Hawaweeny and Charles Macrina.  Memory eternal!

 Madeline Zrike Rosenberger of Leawood, KS, offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George Zrike and Isabel Zrake.  Memory eternal!

 Carol and Hicham Yacoub offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Samir Sakka.  Memory eternal!

 The Children and Grandchildren of the servant of God Alexander Deeb, our former long-time treasurer, offer Prayers of Oblation and a 5-Yer Memorial for the repose of his soul.  Memory eternal!

 A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Evelyn L. Deschner, Albert N. Dibs, Anna Ghiz, Nora and Nicholas Hawa, George Khoury, Malvina Khouri, Nabeh Kotite, Haleem Migdalene, Zahia Migdalene, Robert A. Monier, Andrew N. Samaan, William S. Schneirla Jr., Alfred E. Shaoury, Toufek Shagoury, Arthur Swaya, Emily Swaya, Lily Sydnawey, Mary Traboulcy, Bassem Trabulsi, George Zain, and Rose Zarr.  Memory eternal!

 Gloria Darzi will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her father, the servant of God George Zain.  Memory eternal!

 George Khoury, Jr. will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of his parents, the servants of God Toni and George Khoury, Sr.  Memory eternal!

 HOLY BREAD – Hanade and Ghassan Maalouf have offered the Holy Bread for the health of Wajiha Kaba and Violet Maalouf.  Many years!  Marie Zarr and Gale Zarr also offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of December for the good health of all the ladies and gentlemen who have assisted with previous Christmas Boutiques.  Many years!  They also offer the Holy Bread in memory of our dearly departed ladies and gentlemen who helped with prior Christmas Boutiques.  Memory eternal!  Donors are welcome for January and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Christopher Athineos, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Alissar Dalloul, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, 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.

 CHURCH ATTENDANCE - We have increased capacity in line with civil and Archdiocese guidelines while still maintaining the social distancing of 6 feet.  There is always a possibility that the church may reach social distance capacity in which case worshippers may wait safely 6 feet apart outside the church.  At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy people outside may enter the church as attendees exit to receive Holy Communion, holy bread, and/or light a candle.  We still ask everyone who wants to attend in person either to call the church office or email pastor@smaoc.org ahead of time.

 ZOOM CLASSROOM – We will conclude our online three-week series on Advent themes on Wednesday, December 16, at 7:30 PM via Zoom.  Please join our Zoom Classroom by using the link:  https://zoom.us/j/91972745826?pwd=MnQxay9XY3VUSDVkRTdiZWRhalRKUT09.

 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.

 CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES – Teen SOYO has placed two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives.  Please bring your contributions between now and December 13.  We will distribute all items to local charities and recipients.

CHALLENGE GRANT – The Antiochian Village Camp is the recipient of a $100,000 challenge grant!  Campers, alumni, and friends of the Village are encouraged to help reach this goal through donations to the Annual Campaign before the end of the year.  For more information go to www.avcamp.org, or call Camp Director Fr. Christopher Shadid at (724) 238-9565.

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

 2021 CHURCH CALENDARS – The 2021 Church Calendars are available in the narthex.  We thank our sponsors, McLaughlin Funeral Home and Bay Ridge Honda and the Robert Sabbagh Family.

 GIVING OPPORTUNITIES – The Pastor’s Discretionary Fund welcomes contributions during the Christmas-Epiphany season to support cases of urgent need both inside and outside the parish.  Make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church earmarked “PDF.”

 YEAR END GIVING – Avoid capital gains taxes on appreciated securities, or reduce the pain of declining issues, by donating them to St. Mary’s Church!

 DATES TO REMEMBER

            Sunday, December 13         Ladies of St. Mary’s 50/50 and Little Bit ‘o Luck Drawings

Monday, December 14        Parish Council via Zoom

Wednesday, December 16   Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM

Friday, December 18           Midnight Run

Saturday, December 19       Great Vespers and Artoklasia, 5:00 PM

Sunday, December 20         Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch Sunday

Thursday, December 24      Vespral Divine Liturgy, 10:00 AM

Friday, December 25        Festal Matins, 9:30 AM, Nativity Divine Liturgy 10:30 AM

Saturday, December 26       Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Wednesday, January 6         Great Feast of Theophany/Epiphany

Sunday, February 28            Annual Parish Meeting

We livestream all divine services via https://www.twitch.tv/smaoc.

FROM THE FATHERS – “If the prayer, ‘Lord Jesus, have mercy on me’ is constantly on your mind and on your lips, and the name is always in your heart in the way that air circulates in our bodies or wax feeds the candle flame, how happy it will make you.  The sun, as it rises over the earth, brings day, and the holy and venerable name of the Lord Jesus, when it begins to shine continually in our minds, produces countless mystical understandings, all as bright as sunlight.”

-        St. Hesychius the Priest

Bulletin for Sunday, December 6, 2020

Sunday, December 6, 2020

Nicholas the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia

Tone 1 and Eothinon 4

Bishop Nicholas of Patara

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 1

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

 Apolytikion of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker – Tone 4

 Thy work of justice did show thee to thy congregation a canon of faith, the likeness of humility, a teacher of abstinence, O Father, Bishop Nicholas.  Wherefore, by humility thou didst achieve exaltation, and by meekness, richness.  Intercede, therefore, with Christ to save our souls.

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion for the Preparation for the Nativity – Tone 3

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

Epistle – Hebrews 13:17-21 (St. Nicholas)

Prokeimenon.  Psalm 115.15, 12.  Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.

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

             BRETHREN, obey your leaders and submit to them; for they are keeping watch over your souls, as men who will have to give account.  Let them do this joyfully, and not sadly, for that would be of no advantage to you.

            Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things.  I urge you the more earnestly to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner.

            Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in you that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory forever and ever.  Amen.

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          Colossians 3:4-11 (Ancestors of Christ)

                                                Luke 14:16-24 (Forefathers of Christ)

 HOLY BREAD – Hanade and Ghassan Maalouf have offered the Holy Bread for the health of Wajiha Kaba and Violet Maalouf. Many years!  Marie Zarr and Gale Zarr offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of December for the good health of all the ladies and gentlemen who have assisted with previous Christmas Boutiques.  Many years!  They also offer the Holy Bread in memory of our dearly departed ladies and gentlemen who helped with prior Christmas Boutiques.  Memory eternal!  Donors are welcome for January and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

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

DECEMBER 6, 2020 – NICHOLAS THE WONDERWORKER, ARCHBISHOP OF MYRIA IN LYCIA

 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 reverence the cross and to partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal.  Please introduce yourself to our pastor, and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

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

 TODAY, DECEMBER 6 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Assatly, George Ayoub, George Ellien, Nellie Ellien, Helen Figuccio, Maria Hajjar, Jamiel Howie, Very Rev. Abdallah Khoury, Fred Khoury, Laura Makhoul, Faris Razook, Josephine Razook, Nicholas Sabah, Nancy Schmitt, Edith B. Shagoury, Mary Shahin, Mike Simon, Adele Sullivan, Sarah Zarouni, and Virginia Zarr.  Memory eternal!

Amanda and Michael Regnier and Family offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Jamiel Howie.  Memory eternal!

Joan Bacon, Marie Zarr and Gale Zarr offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Gladys Schroeder.  Memory eternal!

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

 The Ladies of St. Mary’s offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of their sister and the handmaiden of God Elena Paris.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Bertha Abouchar, Josephine Awad, Alexander E. Deeb, Kazan El-Hajj, Jean Fadool, Charles Farkouh, Richard Farkouh, Hafina Haddad, Gloria Hawaweeny, James Jobe, Najla Khoury, Nabeeha Klam, Edward Mannessa, Edward Mamary, Elizabeth Nader, Michael Takla, Edward Thabit, Zouhat Thabit, Eli Zrake, and Najeeb Zrake.  Memory eternal!

 FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Christopher Athineos, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Alissar Dalloul, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), Richard Zogob, 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.

 CHURCH ATTENDANCE - We have increased capacity in line with civil and Archdiocese guidelines while still maintaining the physical distancing of 6 feet.  We still ask everyone who wants to attend in person either to call the church office or email pastor@smaoc.org ahead of time.

 ZOOM CLASSROOM – We will continue our online studies with a three-week series on Advent themes on Wednesday, December 9, at 7:30 PM via Zoom.  Please join our Zoom Classroom by using the link: 

https://zoom.us/j/91972745826?pwd=MnQxay9XY3VUSDVkRTdiZWRhalRKUT09

 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.

 CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES – Teen SOYO has placed two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives.  Please bring your contributions between now and December 13.  We will distribute all items to local charities and recipients.

 CHALLENGE GRANT – The Antiochian Village Camp is the recipient of a $100,000 challenge grant!  Campers, alumni, and friends of the Village are encouraged to help reach this goal through donations to the Annual Campaign before the end of the year.  For more information go to www.avcamp.org, or call Camp Director Fr. Christopher Shadid at (724) 238-9565.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

            Wednesday, December 9          Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM

Saturday, December 12          Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, December 13             Ladies of St. Mary’s 50/50 and Little Bit o’ Luck Drawings

Monday, December 14            Parish Council via Zoom, 7:30 PM

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

 FROM THE FATHERS – “Love is a most holy condition of the soul in which it values the mystical knowledge of God above all other existent things.  We cannot enter into such a state of love, however, if we are still obsessively clinging to material values.”

-        St.  Maximus the Confessor

 A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday November 29, 2020

Sunday, November 29, 2020

Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 8 and Eothinon 3

Martyr Paramonos and the 370 Companion Martyrs in Bithynia

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 reverence the cross and to partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal.  Please introduce yourself to our pastor, and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 8

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion for the Preparation for the Nativity – Tone 3

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

Epistle – Ephesians 4:1-7 (Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

             BRETHREN, I, a prisoner for the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all lowliness and meekness, with patience, forbearing one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.  There is only body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, who is above all and through all and in all.  But grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.

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

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          Hebrews 13:17-21 (St. Nicholas of Myra)

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

 HOLY BREAD – George Khouzami offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of November in loving memory of his mother, Nouhad Khouzami.  Memory eternal!  Hanade and Ghassan Maalouf have also offered the Holy Bread for the health of Wajiha Kaba and Violet Maalouf Donors are welcome for December and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

 CHURCH ATTENDANCE - We have increased capacity in line with civil and Archdiocese guidelines while still maintaining the social distancing of 6 feet.  There is always a possibility that the church may reach social distance capacity in which case worshippers may wait safely 6 feet apart outside the church.  At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy people outside may enter the church as attendees exit to receive Holy Communion, holy bread, and/or light a candle.  We still ask everyone who wants to attend in person either to call the church office or email pastor@smaoc.org ahead of time.

NOVEMBER 29, 2020 – TWENTY-FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

 TODAY, NOVEMBER 29 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Joseph Davis, Rasheed Hajjar, Alfred Hanna, Eva Jobe, Sylvia Khouri, Jasmine Lattof, Tewfik Lewis, Pauline Maloof, Albert Massab, Lian Massab, Rose Nahmee, Herta Schroers, Felipe Trabolsi, Virginia Zarr.  Memory eternal!

 Josette and John Generale offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Gladys Schroeder.  Memory eternal!

 U.S. District Court Judge Jack Zouhary (OH) offers prayers for the health and safety of Fr. Michael, Laila, Matthew, Jessica, Marie, Matthew and Alessandra Ellias.  Many years!

 NEXT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Assatly, George Ayoub, George Ellien, Nellie Ellien, Helen Figuccio, Maria Hajjar, Jamiel Howie, Very Rev. Abdallah Khoury, Fred Khoury, Laura Makhoul, Faris Razook, Josephine Razook, Nicholas Sabah, Nancy Schmitt, Edith B. Shagoury, Mary Shahin, Mike Simon, Adele Sullivan, Sarah Zarouni, Isabel Zrake, and George Zrike.  Memory eternal!

 The Ladies of St. Mary’s will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of their sister and the handmaiden of God Elena Paris.  Memory eternal!

 FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Christopher Athineos, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Alissar Dalloul, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), Richard Zogob, 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.

 MEMORY ETERNAL!  We are saddened to announce that the handmaiden of God Gladys Merhige Schroeder departed this life last Saturday in hope of the Resurrection.  Her funeral was from St. Mary’s on Wednesday.  We extend our sympathies to her nieces Barbara Izzard and Denise Leavey and their families.

 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.

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

ZOOM CLASSROOM – We will resume our online studies with a three-week series on Advent themes on Wednesday, December 2, at 7:30 PM via Zoom.  Please join our Zoom Classroom by using the link: 

https://zoom.us/j/91972745826?pwd=MnQxay9XY3VUSDVkRTdiZWRhalRKUT09.

 CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES – Teen SOYO has placed two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives.  Please bring your contributions between now and December 13.  We will distribute all items to local charities and recipients.

 CHALLENGE GRANT – The Antiochian Village Camp is the recipient of a $100,000 challenge grant!  Campers, alumni, and friends of the Village are encouraged to help reach this goal through donations to the Annual Campaign before the end of the year.  For more information go to www.avcamp.org, or call Camp Director Fr. Christopher Shadid at (724) 238-9565.

 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION RESOURCES – For anyone looking for additional resources to continue their children’s Christian education in the absence of Church School, we would highly recommend materials from Ancient Faith Publishing.  This publisher offers a full range of Orthodox materials for children, teens, young adults and mature readers.  They also offer Bibles, gifts, icons, jewelry, gift cards, and more.  Go to https://store.ancientfaith.com, or call (800) 967-7377 for more information.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

  Wednesday, December 2          Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM

Saturday, December 5               Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, December 6                 Feast of St. Nicholas

Sunday, December 13               Ladies of St. Mary’s 50/50 Drawing

Monday, December 14              Parish Council via Zoom

We livestream all divine services via https://www.twitch.tv/smaoc

 A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 FROM THE FATHERS – “If you are a Christian, no earthly city is yours.  Of our City ‘the Builder and Maker is God.’  Though we may gain possession of the whole world, we are withal but strangers and sojourners in it all.  We are enrolled in heaven:  our citizenship is there!  Let us not, after the manner of little children, despise things that are great, and admire those which are little!  Not our city’s greatness, but virtue of soul is our ornament and defense.”

-        St. John Chrysostom

Bulletin for Sunday, November 22, 2020

Sunday, November 22, 2020

Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 7 and Eothinon 2

Apostles Philemon, Apphia, Archippos and Onesimos of the Seventy

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 7

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

 Apolytikion of the Entrance of the Theotokos in the Temple – Tone 4

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of the Entrance of the Theotokos in the Temple – Tone 4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          Ephesians 4:1-7 (Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

HOLY BREAD – George Khouzami offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of November in loving memory of his mother, Nouhad Khouzami.  Memory eternal!  Hanade and Ghassan Maalouf have also offered the Holy Bread for the health of Wajiha Kaba and Violet Maalouf.  Donors are welcome for December and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 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.”

 CHURCH ATTENDANCE - We have increased capacity in line with civil and Archdiocese guidelines while still maintaining the social distancing of 6 feet.  There is always a possibility that the church may reach social distance capacity in which case worshippers may wait safely 6 feet apart outside the church.  At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy people outside may enter the church as attendees exit to receive Holy Communion, holy bread, and/or light a candle.  We still ask everyone who wants to attend in person either to call the church office or email pastor@smaoc.org ahead of time.

NOVEMBER 22, 2020 – TWENTY-FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

 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 reverence the cross and to partake of the blessed bread at the dismissal.  Please introduce yourself to our pastor, and ask him about membership in the Orthodox Church.

TODAY, NOVEMBER 22 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Basil Kazan, Paul Dib, Albert Ganim, Diab Hattoum, Eva Jobe, Antonia Khoury, Zakia Tannous Khoury, Theresa Kirshy, Mary Monier, Pauline Nehme, Elias Rahhal, Edward Sarkis, Melkon Sayegh, Freda Sayegh, and Souhaila Jada Sciacchitano.  Memory eternal!

 Albert Absey offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Sarkis, Freda Sayegh, and Melkon Sayegh.  Memory eternal!

 Carol Furer will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her father, Paul T. Dib.  Memory eternal!

 Laurice Ganim offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her husband Albert Ganim.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Joseph Davis, Rasheed Hajjar, Alfred Hanna, Eva Jobe, Sylvia Khouri, Jasmine Lattof, Tewfik Lewis, Pauline Maloof, Albert Massab, Lian Massab, Rose Nahmee, Herta Schroers, Felipe Trabolsi, Virginia Zarr.  Memory eternal!

 FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Gladys Schroeder (Englewood), Charlie Bryant, Albert Castley (FL), Nadim Dahdouh, Alissar Dalloul, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Gary Gangone, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Louise Hamwi, Eddie Hanna, George Khoury, Jr., Victor Khoury, Emily Maren (ME), Alfred Nahas, Elena Paris, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Tony Tadross, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), Marianne Trabulsi (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Sam Zamaria (MD), Richard Zogob, 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.

 CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES – Teen SOYO has placed two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives.  Please bring your contributions between now and December 13.  We will distribute all items to local charities and recipients.

IOCC SUNDAY – Our November pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for “International Orthodox Christian Charities” dated November 22.  We annually receive this collection on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.  Our faithful can either drop their envelope in the collection tray today or return it to the church office.  If you are not receiving pledge envelopes, please inform the church office so that we can add you to our list of supporters.  Thank you for your support of IOCC.

 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.

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

 ZOOM CLASSROOM – We will resume on Wednesday night gatherings on Wednesday, December 2.  There will be no class this week.  We will send the Zoom link next week and publish it in the bulletin.

 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION RESOURCES – For those parents, grandparents, and godparents who are looking for additional resources to continue their children’s Christian education in the absence of Church School, we would highly recommend materials from Potamitis Publishing – Orthodox Children’s Books.  These full color publications explore the basics of the faith as well as the lives of ancient and modern saints in an approachable and readable manner.  Visit their website at https://potamitis.us.  These books would make excellent Christmas presents.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, November 28             Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Wednesday, December 2          Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM

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

 A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 FROM THE FATHERS – “While you are on earth, regard yourself as a guest of the Host, that is, of Christ.  A good host merits a good guest.  All the saints knew this truth and so ordered their lives.  Therefore the immortal Host rewarded them with eternal life.”

-        St. Nikolai Velimerovich