Bulletin for Sunday, March 28, 2021

Sunday, March 28, 2021

Second Sunday of Great Lent

Commemoration of Gregory Palamas, Archbishop of Thessalonica

Tone 1 and Eothinon 9

Venerable Hilarion the New

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. Gregory Palamas - Tone 8

 O Star of Orthodoxy, support of the Church and its teacher, O comeliness of ascetics, and incontestable champion of those who speak in theology, Gregory the wonder-worker, the pride of Thessalonica and preacher of grace, implore thou constantly for the salvation of 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 Sundays in Lent – Tone 8

 To thee, the Champion Leader, do I offer thanks of victory, O Theotokos, thou who hast delivered me from terror; but as thou that has that power invincible, O Theotokos, thou alone can set me free:  from all forms of danger free me and deliver me, that I may cry unto thee:  Hail, O Bride without Bridegroom.

Epistle – Hebrews 1:10-2:3 (Second Sunday in Lent)

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

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

             “IN THE BEGINNING, you, O Lord, didst found the earth, and the heavens are the work of thy hands; they will perish, but thou remainest; they will all grow old like a garment, like a mantle thou wilt roll them up, and they will be changed.  But thou art the same, and thy years will never end.”  But to what angel has he ever said, “Sit at my right hand, till I make thy enemies a stool for thy feet?”  Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to serve, for the sake of those who are to obtain salvation?

            Therefore we must pay closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.  For if the message declared by angels was valid and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?  It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard him.

 Gospel – Mark 2:1-12 (Second Sunday in Lent)

 AT THAT TIME, when Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home.  And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them.  And they came, bringing to Jesus a paralytic carried by four men.  And when they could not get near Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay.  And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”  Now some of the scribes were sitting there, reasoning in their hearts, “Why does this man speak thus?  It is blasphemy!  Who can forgive sins but God alone?”  And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus reasoned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you reason thus in your hearts?  Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your pallet and walk’?  But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – he said to the paralytic – “I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home.”  And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!”

 Megalynarion – In thee rejoiceth, O full of grace, all creation:  the angelic hosts, and the race of men, O hallowed temple and noetic paradise, glory of virgins, of whom God was incarnate and became a little child, even our God Who is before all the ages; for He made thy womb a throne and thy body He made more spacious than the heavens.  In thee rejoiceth, O full of grace, all creation; and it glorifieth thee.

 LITURGICAL NOTE:  During Great Lent we celebrate the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great.

Next week’s homework:          Hebrews 4:14-5:6 (Holy Cross)

                                               Mark 8:34-9:1 (Third Sunday of Great Lent)

 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.”

MARCH 28, 2021 – SECOND SUNDAY OF GREAT LENT – COMMEMORATION OF GREGORY PALAMAS, ARCHBISHOP OF THESSALONICA   

 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.

MARCH IS LADIES’ MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

TODAY, MARCH 28 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. John Dalack, Mary Davis, Raphael Davis, Matilda Eyd, Najibe Imtanios, Nazem Khoury, Rose Klam, Adele Hadad, Phillip Hamwi, Helen Livreri, Roger Sabah, Henry Salloum, Robert Samara, Raymond Sayeg, Michael Shraky, Florence Zagby, Eli Zrake, and Najeeb Zrake.  Memory eternal!

 Amanda Regnier offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of her parents, Patricia (Howie) and Sheldon Kaufman, on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary.  Many years!

 Catherine Boorady, Carol Baroody, Liz Cohen, and Ruth Bloom and Families offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Robert Thabit.  Memory eternal!

 The Dalack and Ellias Families offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Dr. John D. Dalack.  Memory eternal!

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

 George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Sebastian Rothhammer on the anniversary of his 52nd birthday.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, APRIL 4 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Robert Coogan, Mary Gehshan, Dr. George Ghiz, Lynn Lewis, Victoria and Esber Najjar, Annette Absey, Antoine Khalil Debbas, Martha Hamatie, Wilfred Jabara, Michael Howie, Adele Trisciuzzi, Charles Norman Sabah, and Isabel Araman Zain.  Memory eternal!

 Sandra and Robert Coogan offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of their dearly departed son Robert Coogan, Jr.  Memory eternal!

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

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the Holy Bread for the balance of the year in memory of their departed loved ones.  Memory eternal!  Additional donors are welcome for April and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - March is Ladies Month in the Antiochian Archdiocese. Our Ladies will be reading the Epistle each week.  Today Barbara Deeb will read in English and Rima Hazem will read in Arabic.

 FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nadim Dahdouh (Hospice), Mary Ganim (NYU Lutheran), Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Susan Hadad, Edward Hanna, George, Joseph, and Terize Khouri, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE – The Village Camp has openings.  Apply NOW at office@avcamp.org.

 LENTEN LITURGICAL SCHEDULE – There will be Great Compline at St. Mary’s each Monday night at 7:00 PM, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts each Wednesday at 7:00 PM, and the Akathist/Madayeh Service each Friday at 7:00 PM.  Great Vespers will continue each Saturday at 5:00 PM.  Due to pandemic conditions there will be no Pot Luck Suppers or sponsored dinners this year.

 FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR MARCH AND APRIL - The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, cheese, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their by-products) is observed on all days of Great Lent with the exception of wine and olive oil being allowed on Saturdays and Sundays.

 FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – The FFHP collection boxes are available in the narthex.  Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and return the box on or before Palm Sunday.

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.

 DATES TO REMEMBER

                Monday, March 29                    Great Compline, 7:00 PM

            Wednesday, March 31                Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, 7:00 PM

            Friday, April 2                            Third Madayeh/Akathist, 7:00 PM

Saturday, April 3                        Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

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

 FROM THE FATHERS – “Prayer is the destruction of fear.”

-        St. John of Kronstadt

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, March 21, 2021

Sunday, March 21, 2021

First Sunday of Great Lent – Sunday of Orthodoxy

Tone 8 and Eothinon 8

Venerable Confessor James the New, Bishop of Catania

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 First Sunday of Lent - Tone 2

 Thy pure image do we venerate, O good One, asking forgiveness of our sins, O Christ our God; for by thine own will thou didst ascend the Cross in thy body, to save thy creatures from the bondage of the enemy.  Thou hast verily filled all with joy, since thou didst come, O our Saviour, to save the world.

 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 Sundays in Lent – Tone 8

 Verily, I, thy city, O Theotokos, inscribe to thee the banners of conquest, O defending soldier, and offer thee thanks as a deliverer from tribulations.  And since thine is the unconquerable might, deliver me from sundry oppressions, that I may cry unto thee, Rejoice, O groomless bride.

Epistle – Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-40 (First Sunday in Lent)

Prokeimenon.  Daniel 3:26, 27.  Blessed are you, O Lord, God of our Fathers.

Verse.  For you are righteous in all things you have done for us.

             BRETHREN, by faith Moses, when he was grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharoah’s daughter, choosing rather to share ill-treatment with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.

            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 enemies 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 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 in 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 – John 1:43-51 (First Sunday in Lent)

             AT THAT TIME, Jesus decided to go to Galilee.  And he found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.”  Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.  Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”  Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?  Philip said to him, “Come and see.”  Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!”  Nathanael said to Jesus, “How do you know me?”  Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.”  Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God!  You are the King of Israel!”  Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe?  You shall see greater things than these.”  And Jesus said to him, “Truly, truly I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.”

 Megalynarion – In thee rejoiceth, O full of grace, all creation:  the angelic hosts, and the race of men, O hallowed temple and noetic paradise, glory of virgins, of whom God was incarnate and became a little child, even our God Who is before all the ages; for He made thy womb a throne and thy body He made more spacious than the heavens.  In thee rejoiceth, O full of grace, all creation; and it glorifeth thee.

 During Great Lent we celebrate the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great.

 Next week’s homework:          Hebrews 1:10-2:3 (Gregory Palamas)

                                                Mark 2:1-12 (Second Sunday of Great Lent))

 MARCH 21, 2021 – FIRST SUNDAY OF GREAT LENT – SUNDAY OF ORTHODOXY

 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.

MARCH IS LADIES’ MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

TODAY, MARCH 21 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Raymonde Alexander, Sadie Fletcher, Mary Hamaty, Atina Hanna, Edward Hawa, Wahiha Hayek, Terez Ivanchev, Albert Kaidy, Fredrick Makhoul, Pamela Zraick Nakleh, Helen Nassoor, Michael Nassoor, Abe Saba, Olga Saba, Frederick Schroeder, Nabeah Shamas, Elias Shawah, Bikturia Zaher, and Edward Zraick.  Memory eternal!

 Sandra Arida offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Gerald “Jerry” Arida.  Memory eternal!

 Joyce and Anthony Saba offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servants of God Olga and Abraham Saba.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 28 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. John Dalack, Mary Davis, Raphael Davis, Matilda Eyd, Najibe Imtanios, Nazem Khoury, Rose Klam, Adele Hadad, Phillip Hamwi, Helen Livreri, Roger Sabah, Henry Salloum, Robert Samara, Raymond Sayeg, Michael Shraky, Florence Zagby, Eli Zrake, and Najeeb Zrake.  Memory eternal!

 HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the Holy Bread for the balance of the year in memory of their departed loved ones.  Memory eternal!  Additional donors are welcome for March 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.”

 MEMORY ETERNAL!  We are deeply saddened to announce the unexpected passing into life eternal of Very Rev. Fr. George Morelli who assisted Fr. Paul Schneirla here at St. Mary’s Church for many years.  Reports are that Fr. George departed this life in his sleep on Tuesday night or Wednesday morning near San Diego, CA, where he had gone to care for his disabled brother.  We extend our sympathies to his family, and we will pray for the repose of his soul for 40 days.  Memory eternal!

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - March is Ladies Month in the Antiochian Archdiocese. Our Ladies will be reading the Epistle each week.  Today Angela Athineos will read in English and Nahla Bittar Fattouh will read in Arabic.

 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.

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

 SUNDAY OF ORTHODOXY VESPERS – St. Nicholas Cathedral will host the annual Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers today at 5:00 PM.  There will be no meal after the service.

 LENTEN LITURGICAL SCHEDULE – There will be Great Compline at St. Mary’s each Monday night at 7:00 PM, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts each Wednesday at 7:00 PM, and the Akathist/Madayeh Service each Friday at 7:00 PM.  Great Vespers will continue each Saturday at 5:00 PM.  This week only there will be Great Vespers for the Feast of the Annunciation on Wednesday at 7:00 PM and Evening Divine Liturgy for the feast on Thursday at 7:00 PM.  Due to pandemic conditions there will be no Pot Luck Suppers or sponsored dinners this year.

 FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR MARCH - The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, cheese, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their by-products) is observed on all days of Great Lent with the exception of wine and olive oil being allowed on Saturdays and Sundays along with fish, wine, and olive oil being allowed on the Great Feast of the Annunciation (March 25).

 SACRAMENT OF REPENTANCE (CONFESSION) – The Great Fast is THE TIME for all believers to receive the Sacrament of Repentance (Confession).  The pastor hears confessions by appointment and before and after all the divine services.  Please do not wait until the last minute!  If you would like to go to one of the other Orthodox priests in Brooklyn, feel free to do so, but inform the pastor.

 FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – The traditional FFHP collection boxes are available in the narthex.  Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and return the box on or before Palm Sunday.  “Honor the Lord with your substance and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”  Proverbs 3:9-10

 SEMINARIANS – Our pledge envelopes for the month of March included a blue envelope marked “Seminarians.”  Please use this envelope to support Metropolitan JOSEPH’s annual appeal on behalf of our theological students.  Our minimum contribution as a parish is $500.  If anyone is currently not receiving pledge envelopes, please see Fr. Michael or Parish Council Chair Christopher Athineos.

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Women of North America offer several scholarships each year, usually in the amount of $500 each. Applicants must be women over 25 years of age and in good standing in their home parish.  Applicants must be actively involved in their parishes and must be applying for or be registered in an academic or trade program of study.  Applicants must also demonstrate financial need.  Please see Ladies’ President Sandra Arida or Fr. Michael for an application.  The application deadline is June 1, 2021.

 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.

 ARABIC LITURGY – Next Sunday, March 28, we will ask Wilson Haddad to provide the responses for Matins and the Divine Liturgy primarily in Arabic.  Please inform your family and friends for whom Arabic may be their first language.

 LENTEN RESOURCES – Great Lent is here.  Our parish Bookstore, recently dedicated to the memory of Elena Paris, has copies of the service books for Great Lent, including Little Compline with the Akathist Hymn, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, and Holy Week.  There are also a few Lenten cookbooks available.  Please contact Lorraine Deeb at ldeebsped@verizon.net or (718) 491-4996 to reserve your books.

 WORD MAGAZINE – All registered members of the parish are entitled to receive the Word Magazine at home.  If you are not receiving the Word, please contact the church office so that we can submit your name for the mailing list.  Thank you.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

            Sunday, March 21                     Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers @ St. Nicholas, 5:00 PM

            Monday, March 22                    Great Compline, 7:00 PM

            Wednesday, March 24               Great Vespers for the Annunciation, 7:00 PM

            Thursday, March 25                  Evening Divine Liturgy for the Annunciation, 7:00 PM

            Friday, March 26                       Second Madayeh/Akathist, 7:00 PM

Saturday, March 27                   Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

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

 FROM THE FATHERS – “The strictness of the forty-day fast puts to death the passions, extinguishes anger and rage, cools and calms every agitation springing up from gluttony.  And just as, in the summer, when the burning heat of the sun spreads over the earth, the northern wind gives a welcome blessing to those who are scorched, by dispersing the heat with a tender coolness, so fasting also provides the same by driving out of bodies the burning which is the result of overeating.”

-        St. Asterius of Amasia

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North A

Bulletin for Sunday, March 14, 2021

Sunday, March 14, 2021

Sunday of Forgiveness (Cheese Fare)

Tone 7 and Eothinon 7

Venerable Benedict of Nursia

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 7

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of Cheese Fare Sunday – Tone 6

 O Thou who guidest to wisdom, and givest understanding and intelligence, the instructor of the ignorant, and Helper of the poor, strengthen my heart and grant it understanding, O Master.  Give me word, O Word of the Father; for behold, I shall not refrain my lips from crying to thee, O merciful One, have mercy upon me who am fallen.

Epistle – Romans 13:11-14; 14:1-4 (Cheese Fare Sunday)

 Prokeimenon.  Psalm 46.6, 1.  O chant unto our God, chant ye.

Verse.  Clap your hands, all ye nations.   

BRETHREN, now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.  The night is far spent, the day is at hand.  Let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.  Let us walk becomingly, as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in chambering and licentiousness, not in strife and jealousy.  But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts.

            But as for the one who is weak in faith, receive him, but not for disputes over opinions.  For one believes he may eat anything; but the weak person eats herbs.  Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat, and let not him who does eat judge him who eats; for God has received him.  Who are you to be the judge over the servant of a stranger?  To his own master he either stands or falls; but he will be made to stand; for God is able to make him stand.

 Gospel – Matthew 6:14-21 (Cheese Fare Sunday)

THE LORD SAID, “If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

            And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men.  Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.  But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

            Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasure in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

 Next week’s homework:          Hebrews 11:24-26,32-40 (First Sunday of Great Lent)

                                                 John 1:43-51 (Sunday of Orthodoxy)

 HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the Holy Bread for the balance of the year in memory of their departed loved ones.  Memory eternal!  Donors are welcome for March 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.”

 LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - March is Ladies Month in the Antiochian Archdiocese. Our Ladies will be reading the Epistle each week.  Today Amanda Regnier will read in English and Sonia Abou Naoum will read in Arabic.

 MARCH 14, 2021 – SUNDAY OF FORGIVENESS (CHEESE FARE)

 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.

 MARCH IS LADIES’ MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

 TODAY, MARCH 14 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Violet Akel, Alice Alekel, Michael Arout, Gladys Awad, Eleanor Couri, Dr. George B. Cury, James Deeb, Mary Farrah, Salwa Fauty, George Gehshan, Edward Jabara, Lorriane Jabara, Mary Kenan, Nicholas Khoury, Maurice Khzam, Alfred Makhoul, Nadima Makhoul, Violette Mahab, Laila Nassr, Beatrice Nebham, Thomas Russo, Walter Thabit, and William Zarick.  Memory eternal!

 Dr. Bassam and Naziha Aldaia offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of their departed family members Kazom, Michael, Badieh, Wajeh, Helen, Samiha, and Nicholas.  Memory eternal!

 Carlene DeFalco of St. Elias Church in Sylvania, OH, offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread today for the repose of the soul of her daughter, the handmaiden of God Tammy Lynn DeFalco.  Memory eternal!

 Dr. Alice B. Farkouh offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Dr. George B. Cury.  Memory eternal!

 The Kaba Family offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Mounir Kaba.  Memory eternal!

 The Bryant, Ellias, Nassr and Wallace Families offer Prayers of Oblation and a 5-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Laila Nassr.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 21 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Raymonde Alexander, Sadie Fletcher, Mary Hamaty, Atina Hanna, Edward Hawa, Wahiha Hayek, Terez Ivantchev, Albert Kaidy, Fredrick Makhoul, Pamela Zraick Nakleh, Helen Nassoor, Michael Nassoor, Abe Saba, Olga Saba, Frederick Schroeder, Nabeah Shamas, Elias Shawah, Bikturia Zaher, and Edward Zraick.  Memory eternal!

 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 either to receive Holy Communion, holy bread, 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.

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

 MEMORY ETERNAL!  We have learned that our long-time member, Mr. Robert Thabit, Esq., departed this life last Sunday in California following a prolonged illness.  Arrangements are not yet final, but the family hopes to transport Bob back to St. Mary’s Church for the funeral and interment.  The family will receive visitors at McLaughlin Funeral Home on Tuesday, 2-5 and 7-9 PM.  The funeral will be on Wednesday at 10 AM.  We extend our sympathies to his family and pray for the repose of his soul.

 FORGIVENESS VESPERS – We will inaugurate Great Lent with the celebration of Forgiveness Vespers with a modified Rite of Forgiveness after today’s Divine Liturgy.  There will be a brief recess following the dismissal of approximately 15 minutes.

 ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE ALUMNI HANGOUT – Today at 6:00 PM, brothers Anthony Zrake and Gregory Zrake will be the guest hosts for an AV Alumni Hangout.  Join them as they discuss “forgiveness” and reminisce about Fr. John Namie and their contemporaries by using Zoom Link https://zoom.us/j/98813062760?wd=WUN0ZldQUFh6SDBJb2E5QW1VTWxUZz09#success.

 FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – The traditional FFHP collection boxes are available in the narthex.  Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and return the box on or before Palm Sunday.

 LENTEN LITURGICAL SCHEDULE – There will be Great Compline at St. Mary’s each Monday night at 7:00 PM, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts each Wednesday at 7:00 PM, and the Akathist/Madayeh Service each Friday at 7:00 PM.  We regret that due to pandemic conditions there will be no Pot Luck suppers or organization sponsored dinners this year.  Great Vespers will continue each Saturday at 5:00 PM.

 SUNDAY OF ORTHODOXY VESPERS – St. Nicholas Cathedral will host the annual Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers next Sunday, March 21, at 5:00 PM.  There will be no meal after the service.

 FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR MARCH - This week, known as Pure Week, the Great Fast begins.  The first three days are traditionally observed with what is popularly referred to as a “black fast.”  This means that beginning with the first day of Great Lent (tomorrow) no food or drink is consumed until after the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts on Pure Wednesday.  After the first three days of Pure Week, the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, cheese, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their by-products) is observed on all days with the exception of wine and olive oil being allowed on Saturdays and Sundays along with fish, wine, and olive oil being allowed on the Great Feast of the Annunciation (March 25).

 SACRAMENT OF REPENTANCE (CONFESSION) – The Great Fast is THE TIME for all believers to receive the Sacrament of Repentance (Confession).  The pastor hears confessions by appointment and before and after all the divine services.  Please do not wait until the last minute!  If you would like to go to one of the other Orthodox priests in Brooklyn, feel free to do so, but inform the pastor.

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – The Antiochian Village Camp has announced that Metropolitan JOSEPH has given his blessing for the camp to open this summer in a limited capacity and following all the necessary protocols and safety measures.  The camp will send information concerning registration, protocols and procedures and updated information soon.  Campers who had been accepted for 2020 will receive preference.  If you would like to be added to the camp e-mail list please sign-up here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/1ghdk2P/signupAVemails.

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.

 LENTEN RESOURCES – Great Lent is here.  Our parish Bookstore, recently dedicated to the memory of Elena Paris, has copies of the service books for Great Lent, including Little Compline with the Akathist Hymn, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, and Holy Week.  There are also a few Lenten cookbooks available.  Please contact Lorraine Deeb at ldeebsped@verizon.net or (718) 491-4996 to reserve your books.

 WORD MAGAZINE – All registered members of the parish are entitled to receive the Word Magazine at home.  If you are not receiving the Word, please contact the church office so that we can submit your name for the mailing list.  Thank you.

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

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

             Sunday, March 14                     Forgiveness Sunday Vespers

            Monday, March 15                    Great Compline, 7:00 PM

            Wednesday, March 17               Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, 7:00 PM

            Friday, March 19                       First Madayeh/Akathist, 7:00 PM

Saturday, March 20                   Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, March 21                     Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers @ St. Nicholas, 5 PM

Wednesday, March 24               Great Vespers, 7:00 PM

Thursday, March 25                  Evening Divine Liturgy for the Annunciation, 7:00 PM

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

 FROM THE FATHERS – “Now the antecedent purpose of our profession is purity of heart, while its ultimate end is the Kingdom of Heaven.  It is impossible for the Kingdom of God to come to us without purity of heart.  Thus, let our minds be fixed on this purpose at all times; let us be zealous always to direct our thoughts, words, and deeds to it.  And if it should happen that our heart departs from the straight path, let us bring it back at once and rectify it – using our purpose like a carpenter’s plumb line.”

-        St. John Cassian

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, March 7, 2021

Sunday, March 7, 2021

Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meat Fare)

Tone 6 and Eothinon 6

Hieromartyrs of Cherson:  Basil, Ephraim, Eugene, Kapiton, Elpidios, Agathodoros, Aetherios

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 6

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of Meat Fare Sunday – Tone 1

 When thou comest, O God, to earth with glory, and all creatures tremble before thee, and the river of fire floweth before the Altar, and the books are opened and sins revealed, deliver me then from that unquenchable fire, and make me worthy to stand at thy right hand, O righteous Judge.

Epistle – I Corinthians 8:8-9:2 (Meat Fare Sunday)

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

Verse.  The Lord has chastened me sorely.

 BRETHREN, food will not commend us to God.  We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do.  Only take care lest this liberty of yours somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.  For if any one sees you, a man of knowledge, at table in an idol’s temple, might he not be encouraged, if his conscience is weak, to eat food offered to idols?  And so by your knowledge this weak man is destroyed, the brother for whom Christ died.  Thus, sinning against your brethren and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ.  Therefore, if food is a cause of my brother’s falling, I will never eat meat, lest I cause my brother to fall.

            Am I not free?  Am I not an apostle?  Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?  Are not you my workmanship in the lord?  If to others I am not an apostle, at least I am to you; for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.

 Gospel – Matthew 25:31-46 (Meat Fare Sunday)

 THE LORD SAID, “When the Son of man comes in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne.  Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will place the sheep at his right hand, but the goats at the left.  Then the King will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, O blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’  Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see the hungry and feed thee, or thirsty and give thee drink?  And when did we see thee a stranger and welcome thee, or naked and clothe thee?  And when did we see thee sick or in prison and visit thee?’  And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.’  Then he will say to those at his left hand, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’  Then they also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see thee hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to thee?’  Then he will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it not to one of the least of these, you did it not to me.’  And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

Next week’s homework:          Romans 13:11-14:4 (Cheese Fare)

                                            Matthew 6:14-21 (Cheese Fare)

 HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the Holy Bread for the balance of the year in memory of their departed loved ones.  Memory eternal!  Additional donors are welcome for March 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.”

MARCH 7, 2021 – SUNDAY OF THE LAST JUDGMENT (MEAT FARE)

 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.

 MARCH IS LADIES’ MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

 TODAY, MARCH 7 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Bittar, Nicholas Ghiz, Emeline Halibi, Maude Sarkis, Laurice Merhige Schuh, Gloria Sparsidis, Georgette Hamwi, Adma Jabran, Charles Kassatly, and William Simon.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 14 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Violet Akel, Alice Alekel, Michael Arout, Gladys Awad, Eleanor Couri, Dr. George B. Cury, James Deeb, Mary Farrah, Salwa Fauty, George Gehshan, Edward Jabara, Lorriane Jabara, Mary Kenan, Nicholas Khoury, Maurice Khzam, Alfred Makhoul, Nadima Makhoul, Violette Mahab, Laila Nassr, Beatrice Nebham, Thomas Russo, Walter Thabit, and William Zarick.  Memory eternal!

 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.

 FOR THE INFIRM – Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Clair Banat (Norwegian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Charles Bryant, Nadim Dahdouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Edward Hanna, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 MEMORY ETERNAL!  we are saddened to announce that the servant of God Albert Castley departed this life following a prolonged illness in Naples, FL, where he had lived since 2011.  Visitation will occur in Florida, and the funeral will be at St. Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church in Naples.  We extend our sympathies to his wife Anna and to his five children – Anthony, Christopher, Suzanne, Giovanni, Tracey and their families, as well as to his 12 grandchildren.  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.

 PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will hold its regular monthly tomorrow at 7:30 PM via Zoom.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - March is Ladies Month in the Antiochian Archdiocese. Our Ladies will read the Epistle each week.  Today Irene Tashji will read in English and Aline Farkouh will read in Arabic.

 BLOOD DRIVE – Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church will sponsor a Blood Drive today from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM in the DGK Parochial School. To sign up contact Javier Jiminez at jjimenez@nyc.org.  Please see the bulletin board for more information.

 VIRTUAL RETREAT -   Today is the final day of our Diocesan Virtual Retreat.  The Antiochian Women of the East (AWE) will make their presentation and meeting at 3:00 PM using Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAvde6uqj8tE92Vu6H9MlG17YMMNJ8XpDQg.  This evening at 7:00 PM Fr. Paul Abernathy, pastor of St. Moses the Black Mission in Pittsburgh, PA, will conclude the retreat with a presentation on urban outreach.  Use Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86399307219.

 ZOOM CLASSROOM – Please join the final Wednesday Zoom Classroom before Great Lent at 7:30 PM.  We will view a DVD of our late beloved pastor, Fr. Paul Schneirla, as he outlines the history of Orthodoxy in North America as of 1981.  You will see many familiar faces and once again hear our choir from that era.

 DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME – Please remember to turn the clocks ahead one hour on Saturday night, March 13.  Daylight Saving Time begins next Sunday.

 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – Last Sunday we were, by the grace of God, able to accomplish the parish’s Annual Parish Meeting.  We extend congratulations to our re-elected Parish Council members Diana Kaiami, Dianna Russo Kitchen, and Daria Mayrose for three-year terms.  The pastor appointed Aline Farkouh, Robert Mackoul, and Dr. Yvonne Zrake to one-year terms.  The newly formed council will elect its officers at tomorrow night’s meeting.  God grant you all many years!

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

  Sunday, March 7                   Virtual Retreat – Dioceses of the East via Zoom

            Monday, March 8                   Parish Council, 7:30 PM via Zoom

            Wednesday, March 10             Zoom Classroom Special Presentation, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, March 13                 Andrew Nehme Baptism, 1:00 PM

                                                            Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, March 14                   Cheese Fare Sunday and Modified Forgiveness Vespers

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

 FROM THE FATHERS – “We should refer all our problems, whatever they are, to God, just as we say in the Divine Liturgy that we ‘commend our whole life to Christ our God.’  We leave everything to You, O Lord.  Whatever You will.  Let Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”

-        Elder Prophyrios the Kapsokalyvite

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, February 28, 2021

Sunday, February 28, 2021

Sunday of the Prodigal Son

Tone 5 and Eothinon 5

Venerable Basil the Confessor, Companion of Prokopios of Decapolis

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 5

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of the Prodigal Son – Tone 3

 When I disobeyed in ignorance thy fatherly glory, I wasted in iniquities the riches that thou gavest me.  Wherefore, I cry to thee with the voice of the prodigal son, saying, I have sinned before thee, O compassionate Father, receive me repentant, and make me as one of thy hired servants.

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

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

Verse.  Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

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

 Gospel – Luke 15:11-32 (Prodigal Son)

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

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

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

                                              Matthew 25:31-46 (Meat Fare)

FEBRUARY 28, 2021 – SUNDAY OF THE PRODIGAL SON

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

 TODAY, FEBRUARY 28 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Yvonne Absey, Najibi Anthony, Jodat Arida, Tamina Arida, Mary Assatly, Mary Samara D`Angelico, Donald Farkouh, Alexander and Regina Ghazal, William Haddad, Sr., Mounir Kaba, Walter John Lattof, Dianna G. Lewis, Lillian Malouf, Isabel Massabni, Eugenie Morgan, Naaman Nehme, Wendy Sadaka-Zavolas, Amin Salem, George Senior, and George Shamyer.  Memory eternal!

 Albert Absey offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his beloved wife, the handmaiden of God Yvonne Absey.  Memory eternall!

 Aline Farkouh, Camil Malouf and Corinne Nahas offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of their aunt, Laurice Barbar, who departed this life in Lebanon on December 30.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 7 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Bittar, Nicholas Ghiz, Emeline Halibi, Maude Sarkis, Laurice Merhige Schuh, Gloria Sparsidis, Georgette Hamwi, Adma Jabran, Charles Kassatly, and William Simon.  Memory eternal!

 HOLY BREAD – Gloria Darzi offers the Holy Bread of Oblation in February for the repose of the soul of her husband Elias.  Memory eternal!  Rolland Salloum and Wanda Salloum offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of February in memory of their sister Giselle Kronfli who departed this life in Maryland on January 5.  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.”

 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.

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

 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.

 SPIRITUAL MESSAGE - In case you missed the Living Faith Series presentation sponsored by the Antiochian Women of the East (AWE) last Sunday with Khouria Laila Ellias, you can view the recording at https://youtu.be/71AVRWR2yVU.

 ZOOM CLASSROOM – Please remember to mark your calendars for Wednesday’s Zoom Classroom at 7:30 PM.  We will discuss Chapters 21-24 of Section II from Fr. John Breck’s book God with Us:  Critical Issues in Christian Life and Faith.  The book is available from our bookstore at a deeply discounted price.  Please contact Lorraine Deeb to obtain a copy at ldeebsped@verizon.net.  Use the Zoom link https://zoom.us/j/4735214754?pwd=dFFGVHVnODR6YzZaTVE3UWR3bWNpQT09,

Meeting ID: 473 521 4754, Passcode: 7S5EHj.  Our sessions only last 40 minutes.

 VIRTUAL RETREAT – The combined Dioceses of the East will host a Virtual Spring Retreat led by His Grace Bishop Thomas (Joseph) on March 4-7 on the theme of “Exploring Servant Leadership.”  There will be multiple presentations over the four days.  Please see the flyer in this bulletin for more information and the Zoom links, or see the bulletin board.

 SATURDAY OF THE SOULS - We will celebrate a Divine Liturgy for the Saturday of the Souls this Saturday, March 6, at 10:30 AM.  Please submit the names of your departed loved ones to Fr. Michael by Friday morning.

 BLOOD DRIVE – Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church will sponsor a Blood Drive on Sunday, March 7, 11:00 AM–3:00 PM in the DGK Parochial School. To sign up contact Javier Jiminez at jjimenez@nyc.org.  Please see the flyer in this bulletin or on the bulletin board for more information.

 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – We will hold our Annual Parish Meeting today via twitch.tv/smaoc.  There will be a brief recess following the end of the Divine Liturgy, then we will reconvene for a brief meeting.  Please review the annual report which we mailed with the 2020 pledge statements prior to the meeting.  The parish organizations will not give oral reports unless there are specific questions.  Parishioners will be able to listen to the meeting and to submit questions either by the chat feature of twitch.tv/smaoc or by calling (425) 436-6399 and using code 5457060.

 LENTEN RESOURCES – Great Lent is approaching.  Our parish Bookstore, recently dedicated to the memory of Elena Paris, has copies of the service books for Great Lent, including Little Compline with the Akathist Hymn, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, and Holy Week.  There are also a few Lenten cookbooks available.  Please contact Lorraine Deeb at ldeebsped@verizon.net or (718) 491-4996 to reserve your books.

 WINTER COAT DRIVE – The Teen SOYO Winter Coat Drive ends today.  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.

 SPECIAL PRESENTATION – Dorothy Downie, the daughter of our late beloved pastor, Fr. Paul Schneirla, has sent us two DVDs of television interviews Fr. Paul did in 1979 and 1981.  We will debut the second of these interviews during our Zoom Classroom on Wednesday, March 10, at 7:30 PM.  The presentation gives an excellent historical summary of Orthodoxy’s introduction to North America.  St. Mary’s Church is clearly visible, and our choir is easily audible.  You will recognize many people as well.

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR FEBRUARY – The week following the second Pre-Lenten Sunday of the Prodigal Son (March 1-6), the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, cheese, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil, and their by-products) is observed on Wednesday and Friday as normal.  The week following the third Pre-Lenten Sunday of the Last Judgment (March 8-13), known as Cheese Week, we observe what is popularly referred to as a “white fast.”  This means that while we abstain from all meats (beef, lamb, pork, poultry and their by-products), other types of foods (including cheese, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil and their by-products) are permitted on all days of the week.  The Great Fast begins on Monday, March 15.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

         Wednesday, March 3               Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM via Zoom

March 4-7                               Virtual Retreat – Dioceses of the East via Zoom

Saturday, March 6                   Saturday of the Souls – Matins, 9:30 AM

Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

Juliana Rich Baptism, 2:00 PM

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Monday, March 8                    Parish Council, 7:30 PM via Zoom

            Wednesday, March 10             Zoom Classroom – Special DVD Presentation, 7:30 PM

            Thursday, March 11                Teen SOYO Zoom Meeting, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, March 13                 Andrew Nehme Baptism, 1:00 PM

            Sunday, March 14                   Cheese Fare/Forgiveness Sunday

                                                           Daylight Saving Time begins

            Monday, March 15                 Great Lent Begins

                                                           Great Compline, 7:00 PM

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

 FROM THE FATHERS – “For this is the work of the Father’s loving-kindness and goodness, that not only should He make him alive from the dead, but that He should render His grace illustrious through the Spirit.  Therefore, instead of corruption, He clothes him with an incorruptible garment; instead of hunger, He kills the fatted calf; instead of far journeys, [the Father] watched for his return, providing shoes for his feet; and, what is most wonderful, placed a divine signet-ring upon his hand; whilst by all these things He begot him afresh in the image of the glory of Christ.  These are the gracious gifts of the Father, by which the Lord honors and nourishes those who abide with Him, and also those who return to Him and repent.”

-        St. Athanasius the Great

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, February 21, 2021

Sunday, February 21, 2021

Sunday of the Pharisee and Publican

Tone 4 and Eothinon 4

Venerable Timothy the Righteous of Symbola

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 4

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of the Pharisee and the Publican – Tone 4

 Let us run away from the words of the boastful Pharisee, and learn the humility of the publican, crying with sighs to the Saviour, Have mercy upon us, O thou alone of true reconciliation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          I Corinthians 6:12-20 ((Thirty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost)

                                               Luke 15:11-32 (Prodigal Son)

 HOLY BREAD – Gloria Darzi offers the Holy Bread of Oblation in February for the repose of the soul of her husband Elias.  Memory eternal!  Rolland Salloum and Wanda Salloum offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of February in memory of their sister Giselle Kronfli who departed this life in Maryland on January 5.  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.”

 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.

 FAST FREE WEEK – There is no fasting this week even on Wednesday and Friday.

 FEBRUARY 21, 2021 – SUNDAY OF THE PHARISEE AND PUBLICAN

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

 TODAY, FEBRUARY 21 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Thomas Abdallah, Almaza Allawh, Charles Assatly, Margaret Fiani Dib, Wadie Jabbour, Rt. Rev. Ananias Kassab, George Kassab, Albert Mesnooh, Melia Murad, Gabriel Murad, Renges Orfaly, Alice Puccarielli, and Olga Saba.  Memory eternal!

 Albert Absey offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Rt. Rev. Fr. Ananias Kassab and George Kassab.  Memory eternal!

 Rhonda Byrnes offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her father, the servant of God Charles Assatly.  Memory eternal!

 George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Walter Patanella of Paris, France.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Yvonne Absey, Najibi Anthony, Jodat Arida, Tamina Arida, Mary Assatly, Mary Samara D`Angelico, Donald Farkouh, Alexander and Regina Ghazal, William Haddad, Sr., Mounir Kaba, Walter John Lattof, Dianna G. Lewis, Isabel Massabni, Eugenie Morgan, Naaman Nehme, Amin Salem, George Senior, and George Shamyer.  Memory eternal!

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

 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.

 ZOOM CLASSROOM – Please remember to mark your calendars for Wednesday’s Zoom Classroom at 7:30 PM.  We will discuss Chapters 17-20 of Section II from Fr. John Breck’s book God with Us:  Critical Issues in Christian Life and Faith.  The book is available from our bookstore at a deeply discounted price.  Please contact Lorraine Deeb to obtain a copy at ldeebsped@verizon.net.  Use the Zoom link https://zoom.us/j/4735214754?pwd=dFFGVHVnODR6YzZaTVE3UWR3bWNpQT09,

Meeting ID: 473 521 4754, Passcode: 7S5EHj.  Our sessions only last 40 minutes.

 A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – Next Sunday, February 28, we will hold our Annual Parish Meeting via twitch.tv/smaoc.  There will be a brief recess following the end of the Divine Liturgy, then we will reconvene for a brief meeting.  Please review the annual report which we mailed with the 2020 pledge statements prior to the meeting.  The parish organizations will not give oral reports unless there are specific questions.  Parishioners will be able to listen to the meeting and to submit questions either by the chat feature of twitch.tv or by calling (425) 436-6399 and using code 5457060.  Parishioners may also submit questions in advance either to Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc.org or to Parish Council Chair Christopher Athineos at cathineos@aol.com.

 BLOOD DRIVE – Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church will sponsor a Blood Drive on Sunday, March 7, 11:00 AM–3:00 PM in the DGK Parochial School. To sign up contact Javier Jiminez at jjimenez@nyc.org.  Please see the bulletin board for more information.

 WINTER COAT DRIVE – The Teen SOYO Winter Coat Drive will conclude next week.  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.

 ARABIC SERVICES – Next Sunday we will ask Wilson Haddad to provide the responses for both Matins and the Divine Liturgy in Arabic.  Please spread the word among those people for whom Arabic would be their first language.

 LENTEN RESOURCES – Great Lent is approaching.  Our parish Bookstore, recently dedicated to the memory of Elena Paris, has copies of the service books for Great Lent, including Little Compline with the Akathist Hymn, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, and Holy Week.  There are also a few Lenten cookbooks available.  Please contact Lorraine Deeb at ldeebsped@verizon.net or (718) 491-4996 to reserve your books.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

     Wednesday, February 24   Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM via Zoom

Saturday, February 27              Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

                                    40-Day Memorial – Kathy Ann Nahas Papas

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

Wednesday, March 3              Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM via Zoom

March 4-7                 Annual Diocesan Retreat and Meetings via Zoom

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “There must be an inner contrition with sincere repentance in order for a person to be corrected.  This is why St. Mark the Ascetic says, ‘If one does not feel contrition commensurate to his fault, he will easily fall into the same fault again.’  In other words, if the mistake is minor, the repentance can also be less severe; but if the mistake is major, then more severe repentance is required.  When people do not grasp the severity of their sins and do not experience grief ‘commensurate to their fault,’ then they can easily fall into the same – or even greater – fault.”

-        Elder Paisios of Mt. Athos

Bulletin for Sunday, February 14, 2021

Sunday, February 14, 2021

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 3 and Eothinon 3

Venerable Auxentios the Priest of 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 3

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – II Corinthians 6:16-7:1 (Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost)

 Prokeimenon.  Make your vows to the Lord our God and perform them.

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

             BRETHREN, we are the temple of the living God; as God said, “I will live in them and move among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.  Therefore come out from them, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch nothing unclean; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”  Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, and make holiness perfect in the fear of God.

 Gospel – Matthew 15:21-28 (Seventeenth Sunday of Matthew)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon.  And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and cried, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon.”  But Jesus did not answer her a word.  And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying after us.”  Jesus answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”  But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.”  And Jesus answered, “It is not fair to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.”  She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.”  Then Jesus answered her, “O woman, great is your faith!  Be it done for you as you desire.”  And her daughter was healed at that very hour.

 Next week’s homework:          II Timothy 3:10-15 (Thirty-third Sunday after Pentecost)

                                                Luke 18:10-14 (Pharisee and Publican)

 HOLY BREAD – Rolland Salloum and Wanda Salloum offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of February in memory of their sister Giselle Kronfli who departed this life in Maryland on January 5.  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.”

 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.

FEBRUARY 14, 2021 – SEVENTEENTH 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, FEBRUARY 14 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Mary Alexander, Charles Balady, III, David Bittar, Gloria Fadel, George Ganim, Emily Nassoor, George Sabah, and Eleanor E. Saleeby.  Memory eternal!

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

 NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Thomas Abdallah, Almaza Allawh, Charles Assatly, Mary Samara D`Angelico, Margaret Fiani Dib, Wadie Jabbour, Rt. Rev. Ananias Kassab, George Kassab, Albert Mesnooh, Melia Murad, Gabriel Murad, Renges Orfaly, Alice Puccarielli, and Olga Saba.  Memory eternal!

 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, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 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.

 ENDOWMENT GIFT – We are blessed to be able to announce a major contribution to the St. Mary’s Church Endowment Fund.  Last week after the Divine Liturgy Debbie and Bob Mackoul made a donation of $50,000 to the endowment in loving memory of Bob’s parents, Margaret and Edward Mackoul, his Uncle Ray and Mary Farkouh (Deacon Farid’s parents), and his Aunt Sally and Uncle Albert Takla.  Their gift comes on the tenth anniversary of Aunt Sally’s repose.  We thank Debbie and Bob from the bottom of our hearts, and we pray that God will grant them and their family many years of life, peace, health, safety, and prosperity, as well as rest, repose and eternal memory to their departed loved ones.  We are also pleased to announce that Bob has agreed to a one-year appointment to the Parish Council.  Many years!

 ZOOM CLASSROOM – Please remember to mark your calendars for Wednesday’s Zoom Classroom at 7:30 PM.  We will discuss Chapters 12-14 of Section II from Fr. John Breck’s book God with Us:  Critical Issues in Christian Life and Faith.  The book is available from our bookstore at a deeply discounted price.  Please contact Lorraine Deeb to obtain a copy at ldeebsped@verizon.net.  Use the Zoom link https://zoom.us/j/4735214754?pwd=dFFGVHVnODR6YzZaTVE3UWR3bWNpQT09,

Meeting ID: 473 521 4754, Passcode: 7S5EHj.  Our sessions only last 40 minutes.

 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.

 CHURCH SCHOOL – Our Church School has made an arrangement with our brothers and sisters at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church in Little Falls, NJ, to make their online church school sessions open to enrollment by St. Mary's students.  Because St. George is a much larger parish, they're able to offer church school classes that are differentiated by individual grade level, while still small enough to work online.  If you're interested in having your child join, even just to try one class, please contact either Lorraine Deeb at ldeebsped@verizon.net or (718) 491-4996, or Michael Regnier at regnier@gmail.com or (347) 860-1206 with the name and grade level of each child.

 LENTEN RESOURCES – Great Lent is approaching.  Our parish Bookstore, recently dedicated to the memory of Elena Paris, has copies of the service books for Great Lent, including Little Compline with the Akathist Hymn, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, and Holy Week.  There are also a few Lenten cookbooks available.  Please contact Lorraine Deeb at ldeebsped@verizon.net or (718) 491-4996 to reserve your books.

 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.

 DATES TO REMEMBER

   Wednesday, February 17         Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM via Zoom

Saturday, February 20               Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

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

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

 FROM THE FATHERS – “The Holy Spirit, out of compassion for our weakness, comes to us even when we are impure.  And if He finds our intellect truly praying to Him, He enters it and puts to flight the whole array of thoughts and ideas circling within it, and He arouses it to a longing for spiritual prayer.”

-        Abba Evagrius the Solitary

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America 

Bulletin for Sunday, February 7, 2021

Sunday, February 7, 2021

Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 2 and Eothinon 2

After-Feast of the Presentation (Meeting) of Christ in the Temple

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 2

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

 Apolytikion of the Presentation of Christ into the Temple – Tone 1

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

Epistle – II Corinthians 6:1-10 (Sixteenth 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, working together with him, then, we entreat you not to accept the grace of God in vain.  For he says, “At the acceptable time I have listened to you, and helped you on the day of salvation.”  Behold, now is the acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.  We put no obstacle in any one’s way, so that no fault may be found with our ministry, but as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way:  through great endurance, in afflictions, hardships, calamities, beatings, imprisonments, tumults, labors, watching, hunger; by purity, knowledge, forbearance, kindness, the Holy Spirit, genuine love, truthful speech, and the power of God; with the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and the left; in honor and dishonor, in ill repute and good repute.  We are treated as impostors, and yet are true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as punished, and yet not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing, as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing everything.

 Gospel – Matthew 25:14-30 (Sixteenth Sunday of Matthew)

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE:  “A man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted to them his property; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability.  Then he went away.  He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them; and he made five talents more.  So also, he who had the two talents made two talents more.  But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money.  Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them.  And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have made five talents more.’  His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.’  And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here I have made two talents more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.’  He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not winnow; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground.  Here you have what is yours.’  But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant!  You knew that I reap where I have not sowed, and gather where I have not winnowed?  Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest.  So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has the ten talents.  For to every one who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away.  And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.’”

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

Next week’s homework:          II Corinthians 6:16-7:1 (Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost)

                                                Matthew 15:21-28 (Seventeenth Sunday of Matthew)

FEBRUARY 7, 2021 – AFTER-FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION (MEETING) OF CHRIST

 We are pleased to welcome you to worship with us today.  Please note that only Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves with prayer, fasting and a recent confession may approach to receive Holy Communion.  Everyone is welcome to 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, FEBRUARY 7 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Elias Darzi, Jacob Khoury, James Pappas, Wadih Rahhal, Olga Shawah Roccosanto, Louis Sabah, Farieda Sarafien, Edward Saydah, and Florence Ventrice.  Memory eternal!

 George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the newly departed servant of God Pedro Trisciuzzi–Almendola of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.  Memory eternal!

 Rolland Salloum and Wanda Salloum offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of their sister, the handmaiden of God Giselle Kronfli, who departed this life in Maryland on January 5.  Memory eternal!

 The Family of the handmaiden of God Sally Takla offers Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of her soul.  Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Mary Alexander, Charles Balady, III, David Bittar, Gloria Fadel, George Ganim, Emily Nassoor, George Sabah, and Eleanor E. Saleeby.  Memory eternal!

 HOLY BREAD – Rolland Salloum and Wanda Salloum offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of February in memory of their sister Giselle Kronfli who departed this life in Maryland on January 5.  Memory eternal!  Linda and George Salamy have also made an offering for the entire year.  Many years!  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, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

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.

 SOUPER BOWL SUNDAY – In the past we have marked “Super Bowl Sunday” with a collection of canned food and cash donations in order to participate in IOCC’s “Souper Bowl Sunday.”  This year we simply inviting everyone to make a cash donation which we will send to IOCC in support of the relief efforts in both Syria and Lebanon.

 TEEN SOYO – Teen SOYO will host a workshop on making prosphora/holy bread on Thursday, February 11, at 7:30 PM.  We encourage all teens and their families to participate.  You will need to make some arrangements in advance in order to bake along with the demonstration, so please be in touch with Co-Advisor Angela Athineos at athineos@verizon.net or (646) 522-2859.

 LENTEN RESOURCES – Great Lent is approaching.  Our parish Bookstore, recently dedicated to the memory of Elena Paris, has copies of the service books for Great Lent, including Little Compline with the Akathist Hymn, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, and Holy Week.  There are also a few Lenten cookbooks available.  Please contact Lorraine Deeb at ldeebsped@verizon.net or (718) 491-4996 to reserve your books.

 WINTER CAMP – The Antiochian Village Camp will host a virtual Winter Camp this Saturday, February 13 from 2:00-4:00 PM.  The Zoom link is available on the camp’s website, www.avcamp.org.  Fr. Nicholas Belcher will address the topic “Having Endurance during a Challenging 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.

CHURCH SCHOOL – Our Church School has made an arrangement with our brothers and sisters at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church in Little Falls, NJ, to make their online church school sessions open to enrollment by St. Mary's students.  Because St. George is a much larger parish, they're able to offer church school classes that are differentiated by individual grade level, while still small enough to work online.  It's an important opportunity to put a bit of Christian education back in our kids' schedules, especially as we approach Great Lent and Holy Week.

 St. George's class schedule is listed below.  Note that many classes are held on Sunday afternoons, while a few take place on Saturday or weeknights.  If you're interested in having your child join, even just to try one class, please contact either Lorraine Deeb at ldeebsped@verizon.net or (718) 491-4996, or Michael Regnier at regnier@gmail.com or (347) 860-1206 with the name and grade level of each child.  We will share that information with the St. George teacher, who will then contact you directly with a Zoom link and details.

Kindergarten              Saturday  10:30am

Grade 1                      Sunday    12:45pm

Grade 2                      Monday    4:30pm

Grades 3 & 4              Thursday 6:30pm

Grade 5                      Sunday    1:00pm

Grade 6                      Sunday    2:00pm

Grade 7                      Sunday    2:00pm

Grade 8                      Sunday   1:00pm

Grades 9 & 10            Sunday    2:30pm

Grades 11 & 12          Sunday    12:15pm

 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, February 10           Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM

            Thursday, February 11           Teen SOYO Meeting via Zoom, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, February 13              Antiochian Village Winter Camp via Zoom

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, February 28                Annual Parish Meeting via smaoc - Twitch

We livestream all divine services via smaoc - Twitch.

 FROM THE FATHERS – “When they badmouth you, you must with all your strength struggle to maintain the peace of your heart.  And if you are disturbed, do not show it, so in this way you might begin to completely uproot your passions.”

-        Staretz Efstratios of Glinsk

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, January 31, 2021

Sunday, January 31, 2021

Thirty-Second Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 1 and Eothinon 1

Holy and Wonderworking Unmercenaries Cyrus and John

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 1

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

 Apolytikion of the Holy and Wonderworking Unmercenaries Cyrus and John – Tone 5

 Since Thou hast given us the miracles of Thy holy Martyrs, Cyrus and John, as an invincible battlement, by their entreaties scatter the counsels of the heathen, O Christ our God, and strengthen the faith of Orthodox Christians, since Thou alone art good and the Lover of mankind.

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

Epistle – I Timothy 4:9-15 (Thirty-Second 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.

             TIMOTHY, my son, the saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance.  For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe.

            Command and teach these things.  Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.  Till I come, attend to the public reading of scripture, to preaching, to teaching.  Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophetic utterance when the council of elders laid their hands upon you.  Practice these duties, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress.

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          II Corinthians 6:1-10 (Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

                                                Matthew 25:14-30 (Sixteenth Sunday of Matthew)

 ARABIC LITURGY – Today we will ask Wilson Haddad to provide the responses for Matins and the Divine Liturgy primarily in Arabic as we have done on the last Sunday of each month.

 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.”

JANUARY 31, 2021 – THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST – “ZACCHAEUS”

 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 31 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lorice Arida, Najeeby Arida, Adla and Gabriel Arout, Gabriel Ashie, Louis Assatly, Elaine Ateyeh, Laura Sayeg Awad, Leon Ayoub Brown, Shamseh Dalack, Jameel Farhood, Naseeb Farkouh, Matilda Halal, Daisy Hamod, Alex A. Hamwi, Lillian John, Nicholas Kalaf, Olga Kalaf, Violet Karkenny, John Makhoul, Mitchel Merhige, Philip Merhige, George Nader, Helen Awad Najjar, Ethel Phillips, Yvonne Sahadi, and Suraya and Samuel Samaha.  Memory eternal!

 Dr. Alice B. Farkouh offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Katherine Cury.  Memory eternal!

 Gloria and Kenneth Jabara offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Louise Hamwi.  Memory eternal!

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

 George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his father Teodoro Trisciuzzi on the anniversary of his birth.  Memory eternal!

 Anna Marie Zarr offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Thomas A. Zarr.  Memory eternal!

 The Dalack and Ellias Families offer Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of former Parish Council Chair, the handmaiden of God Shamseh Dalack.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Elias Darzi, Jacob Khoury, James Pappas, Wadih Rahhal, Olga Shawah Roccosanto, Louis Sabah, Farieda Sarafien, Edward Saydah, and Florence Ventrice.  Memory eternal!

 Gloria Darzi will offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God Elias Darzi.  Memory eternal!

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

Rolland Salloum and Wanda Salloum will offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of their sister, the handmaiden of God Giselle Kronfli, who departed this life in Maryland on January 5.  Memory eternal!

 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, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Susan Hadad, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 ZOOM CLASSROOM – Everyone is welcome to participate in our continuing education on Wednesdays at 7:30 PM as we read seleactions from Fr. John Breck’s book, God is with Us, available from the church bookstore.  Please use Zoom link https://zoom.us/j/4735214754?pwd=dFFGVHVnODR6YzZaTVE3UWR3bWNpQT09.

 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.

 CHURCH ATTENDANCE - Our capacity is 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 capacity in which case worshippers may wait safely 6 feet apart outside the church until the end of services in order to enter the church as attendees exit to receive Holy Communion, holy bread, and/or light a candle.  Everyone who wants to attend in person should either call the church office or email pastor@smaoc.org ahead of time.

 FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF CHRIST – We will celebrate an Evening Divine Liturgy tomorrow, February 1, at 7:00 PM in anticipation of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple.  If you plan to receive Holy Communion, please begin your fast following an early and light lunch.

 BLESSING OF HOMES – The Archdiocese recommends that the traditional blessing of homes following Holy Epiphany be done with great caution this year due to the pandemic.  Clergy may bless the homes of those who request it - following all safety precautions.  The priest should visit quickly and limit the time to the blessing itself - not staying for dinner or coffee.  Clergy should be careful not to contract the virus at one home and then spread it throughout the parish community.

 WINTER COAT DRIVE – The Teen SOYO Winter Coat Drive will continue through February.  Please place coats, scarves, gloves, blankets, and other cold weather attire in the vestibule.

 DATES TO REMEMBER

             Monday, February 1                  Evening Divine Liturgy, 7:00 PM

            Wednesday, February 3            Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, February 6                 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, February 28                 Annual Parish Meeting via smaoc - Twitch

We livestream all divine services via smaoc - Twitch.

 A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, January 24, 2021

Sunday, January 24, 2021

Thirty-First Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 8 and Eothinon 11

Blessed Xenia of St. Petersburg, Fool-for-Christ

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 St. Xenia of St. Petersburg – Tone 8

 In thee, O wandering stranger, Christ the Lord hath given us an ardent intercessor for our kind.  For having received in thy life sufferings and grief and served God and men with love, thou didst acquire great boldness.  Wherefore, we fervently hasten to thee in temptations and grief, crying out from the depths of our hearts:  Put not our hope to shame, O Blessed Xenia.

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

Epistle – I Timothy 1:15-17 (Thirty-First Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

             TIMOTHY, my son, the saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.  And I am the foremost of sinners; but I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience for an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.  To the King of ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory to the ages of ages.  Amen.

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          I Timothy :9-15 (Thirty-second Sunday after Pentecost)

                                                Luke 19:1-10 (Fifteenth 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, Alfred Nahas, Louis Savarese, Evelyn Shamoun, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

 A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

JANUARY 24, 2021 – BLESSED XENIA OF ST. PETERSBURG, FOOL-FOR-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 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 24 – We 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, Yvonne Sahadi, Barbara Salamy, Madeleine H. Salamy, Suraya and Samuel Samaha, William Shamoun,  Alexander G. Orfaly, Jr.,  Adele Simon, and Gail Hall Zarr.  Memory eternal!

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

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

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

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

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

 Roland Salloum and Wanda Salloum offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of their sister, the handmaiden of God Giselle Kronfli, who departed this life in Maryland on January 5.  Memory eternal!

 Dr. Steven A. Swaya offers Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of his father, the servant of God Edmund A. Swaya.  Memory eternal!

 ARABIC LITURGY – Next Sunday, January 31, we will ask Wilson Haddad to provide the responses for Matins and the Divine Liturgy primarily in Arabic as we have done on the last Sunday of each month.  Please inform your family and friends for whom Arabic may be their first language.

NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 31 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lorice Arida, Najeeby Arida, Adla and Gabriel Arout, Gabriel Ashie, Louis Assatly, Elaine Ateyeh, Laura Sayeg Awad, Leon Ayoub Brown, Shamseh Dalack, Jameel Farhood, Naseeb Farkouh, Matilda Halal, Daisy Hamod, Alex A. Hamwi, Lillian John, Nicholas Kalaf, Olga Kalaf, Violet Karkenny, John Makhoul, Mitchel Merhige, Philip Merhige, George Nader, Helen Awad Najjar, and Ethel Phillips.  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.   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 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.  Blessings may continue throughout the course of next year.

 When the priest blesses homes, 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.

 DATES TO REMEMBER

            Wednesday, January 27            Zoom Classroom, 7:30 PM

Saturday, January 30               Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, February 28               Annual Parish Meeting via smaoc - Twitch

We livestream all divine services via smaoc - Twitch

 FROM THE FATHERS – “It is necessary for everyone to know scriptural teachings, and this is especially true for children.  Even at their age they are exposed to all sorts of folly and bad examples from popular entertainment.  Our children need remedies for all these things!  We are so concerned with our children’s schooling:  if only we were equally zealous in bringing them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

-        St. John Chrysostom