Bulletin for April 3, 2022

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard                                Website:                       www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY  11209                                                  Church Office:              (718) 238-8008

Email:  churchsecretary@smaoc.org                         Rectory:                       (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan JOSEPH

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, April 3, 2022

Fourth Sunday of Great Lent

Commemoration of John Climacus, Author of “The Ladder of Divine Ascent”

Tone 8 and Eothinon 8

Abbot Nikitas the Confessor of Medikion

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. John of the Ladder – Tone 8

The barren wilderness thou didst make fertile with the streams of thy tears; and by thy deep sighing thou hast given fruit through thy struggles a hundred-fold. Accordingly, thou hast become a star for the universe, sparkling with miracles. Therefore, O righteous Father John, intercede with Christ God to save our souls.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion 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 6:13-20 (Fourth Sunday in Lent)

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, when God made a promise to Abraham, since he had no one greater by whom to swear, he swore to himself, saying, “Surely I will bless you and multiply you.”  And thus Abraham, having patiently endured, obtained the promise.  Men indeed swear by a greater than themselves, and in all their disputes an oath is final for confirmation.  So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he interposed with an oath, so that through two changeable things, in which it is impossible that God should prove false, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us.  We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner shrine behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.

Gospel – Mark 9:17-31 (Fourth Sunday in Lent)

            AT THAT TIME, a man came to Jesus, kneeling down and saying unto him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a dumb spirit; and wherever it seizes him, it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid; and I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.”  And Jesus answered him, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you?  How long am I to bear with you?  Bring him to me.”  And they brought the boy to him; and when the spirit saw Jesus, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at his mouth.  And Jesus asked his father, “How long has he had this?”  And he said, “From childhood.  And it has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you can do anything, have pity on us and help us.”  And Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.”  Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!”  And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You dumb and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again.”  And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse; so that most of them said, “He is dead.”  But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose.  And when Jesus had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?”  And Jesus said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting.”

            They went out from there and passed through Galilee.  And Jesus would not have anyone know it; for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of man will be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him; and after he is killed, he will rise on the third day.”

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 9:11-14 (Fifth Sunday of Great Lent)

Mark 10:32-45 (Fifth Sunday of Great Lent)

APRIL 3, 2022 – FOURTH SUNDAY OF GREAT LENT – COMMEMORATION OF JOHN CLIMACUS, AUTHOR OF “THE LADDER OF DIVINE ASCENT”

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, APRIL 3 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Adele Hadad, Alexander Hamwi, Philip Hamwi, Helen Livreri, Roger Sabah, Henry Salloum, Robert Samara, Raymond Sayeg, Michel Shraky, Felipe Trabulsi, Florence Zagby, and Najeeb Zrake.  Memory eternal!

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

Carol Makhoul offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of her sister, Denise McBride.  Many years!

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of Cezar Perez of Quito, Ecuador, as well as for the repose of the souls of his parents, the servants of God Adele Mary and Teodoro Trisciuzzi.  Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, APRIL 10 – 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, and Marie Tashji.  Memory eternal!

Brenda Sabbagh and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Robert Sabbagh.  A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy.  Memory eternal!

The Family of Edward Hanna will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of his soul.  They will also commemorate the servants of God Atina Hanna (25 years) and Albert Hanna (twelve years).  Memory eternal!

George Lewis will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 5-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of his sister, the handmaiden of God Lynn Lewis.  Memory eternal!

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made an offering for the Holy Bread of Oblation for the entire year.  Additional donors are welcome for April and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – As the faithful approach to reverence the cross, receive a blessing and a piece of antidoron (holy bread) at the dismissal, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving.  Please greet each other quietly as we reverently hear these prayers.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S – The Ladies of St. Mary’s will hold an in person meeting following this morning’s Divine Liturgy.  All women of the parish are welcome and encouraged to participate.  See President Sandra Arida for more information.

BYZANTINE CHANT CLASS – In an effort to cultivate additional chanters and readers for the divine services the pastor will offer a class on the rudiments of Byzantine chant at 4:30 on Saturday afternoons prior to the celebration of Great Vespers.  Singers and readers of all ages, experience, and abilities are welcome to participate.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – “Whoever gives a hand to help his neighbor is helped by God’s own hand.” (St. Isaac the Syrian)  Please make your checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “FFHP”” in the memo line and submit on or before Palm Sunday.

LENTEN LITURGICAL SCHEDULE – There will be Great Compline at St. Mary’s on Monday at 7:00 PM, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts each Wednesday at 6:30 PM, and the Akathist/Madayeh Service each Friday at 7:30 PM.  A Pot Luck Supper will follow each Wednesday service, and each parish organization will host a dinner prior to the Friday service.  Great Vespers will continue each Saturday at 5:00 PM.  This week only there will be special services on

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR APRIL - 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.  On the Great Feast of the Lord’s Entrance into Jerusalem (Palm Sunday, April 17), fish, wine, and olive oil are permitted.  There is no fasting after Holy Pascha (April 24) until the Great Feast of the Lord’s Ascension (June 2).

FIRST CONFESSION – The Church School historically has prepared second graders to participate in the Sacrament of Holy Confession/Reconciliation for the first time on Lazarus Saturday.  Due to the pandemic a couple of classes have missed this opportunity; therefore, Laila Ellias will offer several special sessions to prepare the current class and two previous years’ students after the Divine Liturgy.  Please see Laila, Church School Director Lorraine Deeb, or Dr. Yvonne Zrake for more information.

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

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP – We are happy to announce the start of “Our Time” at St. Mary’s.  This is an opportunity for our seniors and their friends to gather in our church hall to socialize, play cards, bingo, backgammon or any other activity they would enjoy.  The past two years have been very isolating for many.  As the pandemic wanes and our masks come off, we would like to open the Church twice a month on Wednesdays at 1:00 and meet for a pleasurable two hours.  So, bring your cards, games and friends for an afternoon of fellowship and fun.  Watch for more information, and share your thoughts and ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616.

LENTEN RESOURCES – Great Lent is here.  Our parish Bookstore, 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.

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.

ESTATE PLANNING – A bequest is one of the easiest gifts to make in order to impact the ministry of the Church significantly.  An estate plan can include a provision that leaves a lasting gift to St. Mary’s Church.  A bequest could be a gift of specific assets, a dollar amount, or a percentage of the estate.  A bequest could also be the residue of an estate after all gifts have been made to heirs.  Consider naming St. Mary’s as a beneficiary on your retirement accounts (such as an IRA). Qualified charities are able to receive the full value of dollars in these plans without incurring income taxes

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

            Monday, April 4             Great Compline, 7:00 PM

            Monday and Tuesday    Ladies Baking

            Wednesday, April 6       Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, 6:30 PM

                                                Followed by Pot Luck Supper

            Thursday, April 7           Little Compline with Great Canon and Life of St. Mary of Egypt, 7 PM

            Friday, April 8                Young Adults Sponsor Dinner, 6:30 PM

                                                Fifth Madayeh/Akathist Hymn, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, April 9            Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Monday, April 11           Parish Council, 7:30 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “The Holy Fathers have cleared the way for us and have shown us the way to labor with the help of God.  God is powerful, and He can deliver us from any evil.”

-       Elder Thaddeus of Vitovnica

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, March 20, 2022

81st Street and Ridge Boulevard                                Website:                       www.smaoc.org

Brooklyn, NY  11209                                                  Church Office:              (718) 238-8008

Email:  churchsecretary@smaoc.org                         Rectory:                       (718) 745-8481

His Eminence Metropolitan JOSEPH

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, March 20, 2022

Second Sunday of Great Lent

Tone 6 and Eothinon 6

Commemoration of Gregory Palamas, Archbishop of Thessalonica

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 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

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 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!”

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

Next week’s homework:           Hebrews 4:14-5:6 (Third Sunday of Great Lent)

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

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 20, 2022 – 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.

MARCH IS LADIES MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

TODAY, MARCH 20 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Raymonde Alexander, Sadie Fletcher, Mary Hamaty, Atina Hanna, Gloria L. Harris, 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!

Carol Makhoul offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of her sister, Denise McBride.  Many years!

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of the handmaiden of God Carmen Marie Khoury of Vienna, Austria.  Many years!

Dr. Robert M. Haddad, now of Orono, ME, offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God William A. Haddad.  Memory eternal!

Samer and Lina Kaiami and Family offer the Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of March, and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nouhad Massouh Kaiami.  Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 27 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nadim Dahdouh, Dr. John Dalack, Mary Davis, Raphael Davis, Matilda Eyd, Adele Hadad, Phillip Hamwi, Najibe Imtanios, Nazem Khoury, Rose Klam, Helen Livreri, Roger Sabah, Eli Zrake, and Najeeb Zrake.  Memory eternal!

HOLY BREAD – Samer and Lina Kaiami and Family offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of March in loving memory of his beloved parents, Nouhad Massouh Kaiami and Toufik Kaiami.  Memory eternal!   James Harris and Family also offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Gloria L. Harris, Michael A. Arout and Linda Reynolds. Memory eternal!

Additional donors are welcome for March and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – As the faithful approach to reverence the cross, receive a blessing and a piece of antidoron (holy bread) at the dismissal, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving.  Please greet each other quietly as we reverently hear these prayers.

FEAST OF THE ANNUNCIATION – We will celebrate Matins at 9:30 AM and the Divine Liturgy at 10:30 AM on Friday, March 25, for the Feast of the Annunciation. 

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - March is Ladies Month in the Antiochian Archdiocese.  Our Ladies will read the Epistle and serve as ushers each week.  Today Angela Athineos, Barbara Deeb, Janice Deeb, and Elsa Khzam will usher.  Angela Athineos will read the epistle in English, and Rima Alsaifi Hazem will read in Arabic.

MAN OF GOD – On Monday, March 21, at 7:00 PM the AMC Theater at Sheepshead Bay will present “Man of God,” the story of St. Nektarios of Aegina, a saint of the early 20th century.  His story is very inspiring and is a welcome addition to a medium which often brings us unedifying content.  Please see Daria Mayrose to see if we have any remaining tickets.

FIRST CONFESSION – The Church School historically has prepared second graders to participate in the Sacrament of Holy Confession/Reconciliation for the first time on Lazarus Saturday.  Due to the pandemic a couple of classes have missed this opportunity; therefore, Laila Ellias will offer several special sessions to prepare the current class and two previous years’ students after the Divine Liturgy.  Please see Laila, Church School Director Lorraine Deeb, or Dr. Yvonne Zrake for more information.

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP – We are happy to announce the start of “Our Time” at St. Mary’s.  This is an opportunity for our seniors and their friends to gather in our church hall to socialize, play cards, bingo, backgammon or any other activity they would enjoy.  The past two years have been very isolating for many.  As the pandemic wanes and our masks come off, we would like to open the Church twice a month on Wednesdays at 1:00 and meet for a pleasurable two hours.  So, bring your cards, games and friends for an afternoon of fellowship and fun.  Watch for more information and share your thoughts and ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-2616.

BYZANTINE CHANT CLASS – In an effort to cultivate additional chanters and readers for the divine services the pastor will offer a class on the rudiments of Byzantine chant at 4:30 on Saturday afternoons prior to the celebration of Great Vespers.  Singers and readers of all ages, experience, and abilities are welcome to participate. 

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – The traditional FFHP collection boxes will soon be 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 each Monday night at 7:00 PM, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts each Wednesday at 6:30 PM, and the Akathist/Madayeh Service each Friday at 7:30 PM.  A Pot Luck Supper will follow each Wednesday service, and each parish organization will host a dinner prior to the Friday service.  Great Vespers will continue each Saturday at 5:00 PM.  There will be no Great Compline tomorrow, March 21, only because of the special movie presentation.  This Friday only we will celebrate Daily Vespers at 7:30 PM with the Third Stasis of the Akathist Hymn due to the Feast of the Annunciation.

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 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).

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 – Every member of a parish in the Antiochian Archdiocese is entitled to receive the Word Magazine at their home.  If you are not receiving the Word and wish to subscribe, go to https://forms.gle/sughatopgYmqJXXE7 to submit your address, or let Fr. Michael know.  The Archdiocese also publishes the Word each month on its website www.antiochian.org.

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.

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.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

            Monday, March 21                     “Man of God” Movie, 7:00 PM

            Wednesday, March 23               Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, 6:30 PM

                                                            Followed by Pot Luck Supper

            Friday, March 25                       Festal Orthros, 9:30 and Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

                                                            Parish Council Sponsors Dinner, 6:30 PM

                                                            Daily Vespers and 3rd Stasis of the Akathist Hymn, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, March 26                   Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “The work of prayer is the first work in Christian life.  If in everyday affairs the saying “live and learn” is  true, then so much more it applies to prayer, which never stops and which has no limit.  We mst pray so that our mind and heart receive the content of the prayers that we read.  In this way the act of praying becomes a font of true prayer in us.  I will give here three very simple instructions:  1.  Always begin praying with at least a little preparation.  2.  Do not pray carelessly, but with attention and feeling, and 3.  Do not go on to ordinary work immediately after prayer.”

-       St. Theophan the Recluse

“The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch” (Acts 11:26)

Great Lent, 2022

TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT AND PRINTED IN THE BULLETIN

Beloved Clergy and Faithful of our Archdiocese,

Blessings to you and your families in the name of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ!

As we enter Great Lent—this consecrated season of repentance—the Church summons us to focus even more intently on drawing near to God. She shows us proven paths of approach to Him: not just fasting and prayer but also sharing our material blessings with others. From the saints we learn that charitable giving is not just about helping our neighbor, but even more importantly, it is a means of approach to God. St. Paul encourages us, “Do not forget to do good and to share, for God is well pleased with such sacrifices” (Heb. 13:16), and he thus teaches us that charity is a form of holy sacrifice—an act of worship that shows our love for God and invites Him into our lives.

In the same vein, St. John Chrysostom describes philanthropy as a holy and priestly ministry, urging us to “put on the vestment of philanthropy, which is holier than the priestly clothing.” He goes on to exhort us: “When you see a poor believer, think that you behold an altar; when you see a miserable beggar, do not just refrain from insulting him but even reverence him” (Homily 20 on Second Corinthians).  His words remind us that people in need do us a service, by providing us a way to show God love and honor. For, as our Lord said, “As you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me” (Matt. 25:40).

With this in mind, over the past 48 years our Archdiocese has encouraged you to give alms during Lent through Food for Hungry People and Charitable Outreach. Once again, we appeal to your generosity and your love of God, asking you to offer God a gift by putting food and other necessities into the hands of the poor. May your gift from the heart be received by God as a pleasing and holy sacrifice, and may He give you in return the joy of His presence.

With prayers that we all be granted strength for the holy struggle ahead and that we be found worthy to celebrate joyously the victory of our Crucified and Risen Lord, I remain,

Your Father in Christ,

+ JOSEPH

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

Bulletin for Sunday, March 13, 2022

Sunday, March 13, 2022

First Sunday of Great Lent – Sunday of Orthodoxy

Tone 5 and Eothinon 5

Translation of the Relics of Nikephoros, Patriarch of Constantinople

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 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 (Second Sunday of Great Lent)

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

MARCH 13, 2022 – 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 13 - 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, Robert Thabit, Walter Thabit, and William Zarick.  Memory eternal!

 Josette and John Generale offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nouhad Massouh Kaiami.  Memory eternal!

 Nataliya Latushkina offers Prayers of Oblation “for my embattled and suffering country Ukraine and my mother Vera (in English means Faith) who lives there.”

 Carol Makhoul offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of her sister, Denise McBride.  Many years!

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

 James Harris and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Gloria Harris, Michael Arout, and Linda Reynolds. Memory eternal!

 The Family of Robert Thabit offers Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of his soul.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 20 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Raymonde Alexander, Sadie Fletcher, Mary Hamaty, Atina Hanna, Gloria L. Harris, 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!

 HOLY BREAD – Samer and Lina Kaiami and Family offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of March in loving memory of his beloved parents, Nouhad Massouh Kaiami and Toufik Kaiami.  Memory eternal!   James Harris and Family also offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Gloria L. Harris, Michael A. Arout and Linda Reynolds.  Memory eternal!

 SUNDAY OF ORTHODOXY VESPERS – St. Nicholas Cathedral will host the annual Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers with the procession of icons today at 5:00 PM.  A Lenten supper will follow the service in the Cathedral’s social hall.  All are welcome.

 FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - March is Ladies Month in the Antiochian Archdiocese. Our ushers today are Lorraine Deeb, Shamaseh Aline Farkouh, Dianna Kitchen, and Karen Spolar. The Epistle will be read by Karen Spolar in English and Sonia Abou Naoum in Arabic.

 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 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).

 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 Aline Farkouh.

 PARISH COUNCIL – We will install our newly constituted Parish Council members and officers today at the end of the Divine Liturgy.  The Parish Council will meet tomorrow, March 14, at 7:30 PM.

 MAN OF GOD – On Monday, March 21, at 7:00 PM the AMC Theater at Sheepshead Bay will present “Man of God,” the story of St. Nektarios of Aegina, a saint of the early 20th century.  His story is very inspiring and is a welcome addition to a medium which often brings us unedifying content.  Please see Daria Mayrose to reserve a ticket.  Go to https://www.fathomevents.com/events/Man-of-God for more information.

 BYZANTINE CHANT CLASS – In order to cultivate chanters and readers for the divine services the pastor will offer a class on Byzantine chant at 4:30 on Saturday afternoons prior to the celebration of Great Vespers.  Singers and readers of all ages, experience, and abilities are welcome to participate. 

 LENTEN RESOURCES – Great Lent is here.  Our parish Bookstore, 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.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – The traditional FFHP collection boxes will be available soon 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 each Monday night at 7:00 PM, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts each Wednesday at 6:30 PM, and the Akathist/Madayeh Service each Friday at 7:30 PM.  This week’s Great Compline will be at St. Nicholas Cathedral.  A Pot Luck Supper will follow each Wednesday service, and each parish organization will host a dinner prior to the Friday service.  Great Vespers will continue each Saturday at 5:00 PM.

 HUMANITARIAN PROJECT - The Ladies of St. Mary’s thank all of our parishioners, men and women for their participation in our humanitarian project this Winter.  Almost 90 hygiene kits have been donated, and they are being distributed to the homeless during the Midnight Runs.  Thank you all for your support and compassion!

 WORD MAGAZINE – Every member of a parish in the Antiochian Archdiocese is entitled to receive the Word Magazine at their home.  If you are not receiving the Word and wish to subscribe, go to https://forms.gle/sughatopgYmqJXXE7 to submit your address, or let Fr. Michael know.  The Archdiocese also publishes the Word each month on its website www.antiochian.org.

 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.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

  Sunday, March 13                     Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers @ St. Nicholas, 5:00 PM

Monday, March 14               Great Compline @ St. Nicholas Cathedral, 7:00 PM

                                                          Parish Council, 7:30 PM

         Wednesday, March 16               Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, 6:30 PM

                                                            Followed by Pot Luck Supper

          Friday, March 18                       Church School Sponsored Dinner, 6:30 PM

                                                            Second Madayeh/Akathist Hymn, 7:30 PM                    

          Saturday, March 19                   Byzantine Chant Class, 4:30 PM

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

         Sunday, March 20                     Spring Begins!

         Monday, March 21                  “Man of God” Movie, 7:00 PM

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

            FROM THE FATHERS – “The bread you do not use is the bread of the hungry.  The garment hanging in your wardrobe is the garment of the person who is naked.  The shoes you do not wear are the shoes of the one who is barefoot.  The money you keep locked away is the money of the poor.  The acts of charity you do not perform are the injustices you commit.”

-        St. Basil the Great

Bulletin for Sunday, March 6, 2022

Sunday, March 6, 2022

Sunday of Forgiveness (Cheese Fare)

Tone 4 and Eothinon 4

Discovery of the Precious Cross and Nails by St. Helena

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 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 – Samer and Lina Kaiami and Family offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of March in loving memory of his beloved parents, Nouhad Massouh Kaiami and Toufik Kaiami.  Memory eternal!   James Harris and Family also offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Gloria L. Harris, Michael A. Arout and Linda Reynolds. Linda and George Salamy have also made a donation for the entire year for the health of their family.  Many years!  Additional donors are welcome for March and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – As the faithful approach to reverence the cross, receive a blessing and a piece of antidoron (holy bread) at the dismissal, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving.  Please greet each other quietly as we reverently hear these prayers.

MARCH 6, 2022 – SUNDAY OF FORGIVENESS

 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 6 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Bittar, Nicholas Ghiz, Emeline Halibi, Gloria L. Harris, Georgette Hamwi, Adma Jabran, Charles Kassatly, William Simon, Maude Sarkis, Laurice Merhige Schuh, Gloria Sparsidis, and Robert William Thabit.  Memory eternal!

 Nataliya Latushkina offers Prayers of Oblation “for my embattled and suffering country Ukraine and my mother Vera (in English means Faith) who leaves there.”

  Carol Makhoul offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of her sister, Denise McBride.  Many years!

 Gisele and George Wardi (in Florida) offer Prayers of Oblation “for their dear friends at St. Mary's.”  They also offer prayers for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Robert Sabbagh.  Memory eternal!

 The Castley Family offers Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Albert Castley.  Memory eternal

 Lina and George Zaher and Family offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Monir Kaba.  Memory eternal!

 The Family of Monir Kaba offers Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of his soul.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 13 – 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, Lorraine 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!

 James Harris and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Gloria Harris, Michael Arout, and Linda Reynolds. Memory eternal!

 FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, Patricia DeLuca, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Alfred Nahas, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - March is Ladies Month in the Antiochian Archdiocese. Our Ladies will usher and read the Epistle each week.  Our ushers today are Joan Bacon, Linda Mantia, Amanda Regnier, and Marilyn Tulaney.  The Epistle will be read by Amanda Regnier in English and Shamaseh Aline Farkouh in Arabic.

 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 Aline Farkouh.

 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 30 minutes.

 FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – The traditional FFHP collection boxes will be available in the narthex soon.  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 each Monday night at 7:00 PM, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts each Wednesday at 6:30 PM, and the Akathist/Madayeh Service each Friday at 7:30 PM.  There will be a Pot Luck Supper after services on Wednesday, and a parish organization will sponsor a supper prior to services on Fridays.  Great Vespers will continue each Saturday at 5:00 PM.

 MAN OF GOD – On Monday, March 21, at 7:00 PM the AMC Theater at Sheepshead Bay will present “Man of God,” the story of St. Nektarios of Aegina, a saint of the early 20th century.  His story is very inspiring and is a welcome addition to a medium which often brings us unedifying content.  Please put your name on the sign-up sheet in the back of the church if you are interested.  Go to https://www.fathomevents.com/events/Man-of-God for more information.

 BYZANTINE CHANT CLASS – In an effort to cultivate additional chanters and readers for the divine services the pastor will offer a class on the rudiments of Byzantine chant at 4:30 on Saturday afternoons prior to the celebration of Great Vespers.  Singers and readers of all ages, experience, and abilities are welcome to participate. 

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

 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).

 LENTEN RESOURCES – Great Lent is here.  Our parish Bookstore, 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 – Every member of a parish in the Antiochian Archdiocese is entitled to receive the Word Magazine at their home.  If you are not receiving the Word and wish to subscribe, go to https://forms.gle/sughatopgYmqJXXE7 to submit your address, or let Fr. Michael know.  The Archdiocese also publishes the Word each month on its website www.antiochian.org.

 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.

 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.

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

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

             Sunday, March 6                       Forgiveness Vespers

            Monday, March 7                      Great Compline @ St. Mary’s, 7:00 PM

            Wednesday, March 9                 Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, 6:30 PM

                                                             Followed by Pot Luck Supper

            Friday, March 11                      Parish Council Sponsored Dinner, 6:30 PM

                                                             First Madayeh/Akathist, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, March 12                   Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, March 13                     Daylight Savings Time Begins

First Sunday of Great Lent

Sunday of Orthodox Vespers @ St. Nicholas, 5:00 PM

            Monday, March 14                   Great Compline @ St. Nicholas Cathedral, 7:00 PM

                                                            Parish Council, 7:30 PM

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

            FROM THE FATHERS – “The merciful person is he who gives to others what he himself received from God, whether it be money, food, strength, a helpful word, prayer or anything else that he has through which he can express his compassion for those in need.  At the same time he considers himself a debtor since he has received more than he is asked to give.”

-        St. Peter of Damascus

Bulletin for Sunday, February 27, 2022

Sunday, February 27, 2022

Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meat Fare)

Tone 3 and Eothinon 3

Venerable Prokopios the Confessor 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 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 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 (Forgiveness Sunday)

                                                Matthew 6:14-21 (Cheese Fare)

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

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

FEBRUARY 27, 2022 – 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.

 TODAY, FEBRUARY 27 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Yvonne Absey, Najibi Anthony, Jodat Arida, Tamina Arida, Mary Assatly, Donald Farkouh, Regina and Alexander Ghazal, William Haddad Sr., Monir Kaba, Walter John Lattof, Dianna G. Lewis, Lillian Malouf, Isabel Massabni, Eugenie Morgan, Naaman Nehme, Amin Salem, George Senior, George Shamyer, Wendy Sadaka, and Malak Karkenny.  Memory eternal!

 Carol Makhoul offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of her sister, Denise McBride.  Many years!

 Irene Tashji, Gale Zarr, and Marie Zarr offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nouhad Massouh Kaiami.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 6 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Bittar, Nicholas Ghiz, Emeline Halibi, Gloria L. Harris, Georgette Hamwi, Adma Jabran, Charles Kassatly, William Simon, Maude Sarkis, Laurice Merhige Schuh, Gloria Sparsidis, and Robert William Thabit.  Memory eternal!

 Lina and George Zaher and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Monir Kaba.  Memory eternal!

 The Castley Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Albert Castley.  Memory eternal!

 The Family of Monir Kaba offers Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of his soul.  Memory eternal!

 FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Patricia DeLuca (Helen Hayes), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Alfred Nahas, Wanda Salloum, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – As the faithful approach to reverence the cross, receive a blessing and a piece of antidoron (holy bread) at the dismissal, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving.  Please greet each other quietly as we reverently hear these prayers.

 FASTING DISICIPLINE – The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their byproducts) is observed on Wednesday and Friday this week.  Cheese Fare Sunday is next Sunday, March 6, and Great Lent begins on Clean Monday, March 7.

MEMORY ETERNAL!  We are saddened to announce that the servant of God Robert Sabbagh departed this life in the hope of the Resurrection on Tuesday following a prolonged hospitalization.  We extend our sympathies to Brenda and her children, Rob (Doratea) and Danielle (Billy) and their entire family.  They will receive visitors today from 2-5 and 7-9 PM at McLaughlin’s Funeral Home, and the funeral will be here at 10 AM tomorrow.  We will continue to commemorate Bobby for the full 40 days.  Memory eternal!

 HOUSE BLESSINGS – Please note that there is only one more Sunday before the beginning of Great Lent.  If you would like the priest to bless your home, please make an appointment as soon as possible.

 COVID POLICY – We have returned to our previous policy whereby everyone wears masks coming into and moving around the church; however, we recommend that worshippers who are up to date with vaccinations and boosters can remove their masks when seated.  We will continue to ask singers in the choir to wear masks, and we will ask everyone in Church School to continue masking.  We will revisit these protocols on a weekly basis.

 MAN OF GOD – On Monday, March 21, at 7:00 PM the AMC Theater at Sheepshead Bay will present “Man of God,” the story of St. Nektarios of Aegina, a saint of the early 20th century.  His story is very inspiring and is a welcome addition to a medium which often brings us unedifying content.  We are organizing a group from our church and the Cathedral and have reserved 50 tickets.  Please put your name on the sign-up sheet in the back of the church if you are interested.  Go to https://www.fathomevents.com/events/Man-of-God for more information.

 BYZANTINE CHANT CLASS – In an effort to cultivate additional chanters and readers for the divine services the pastor will offer a class on the rudiments of Byzantine chant at 4:30 on Saturday afternoons prior to the celebration of Great Vespers.  Singers and readers of all ages, experience, and abilities are welcome to participate. 

 ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – If any of our campers who have received their acceptance notices from the camp are in need of scholarship assistance, please be in direct contact with Fr. Michael in confidence.  We will make every attempt to meet everyone’s financial need.  We want as many of our children as possible to have a wonderful camping experience.

 LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s invite all our parishioners (men too!) to participate in our humanitarian project this year.  We once again request the preparation of hygiene kits to be distributed to the homeless during the Midnight Run each month.  In a one gallon ZipLock bag please include:  1 washcloth, bar of soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, nail clipper, comb, 3 band-aids, disposable razor (optional).  Feel free to prepare more than one kit!  The kits can be given to Sandra Arida or any one of the Ladies.  Thank you all for your support.

 WORD MAGAZINE – Every member of a parish in the Antiochian Archdiocese is entitled to receive the Word Magazine at their home.  If you are not receiving the Word and wish to subscribe, go to https://forms.gle/sughatopgYmqJXXE7 to submit your address, or let Fr. Michael know.  The Archdiocese also publishes the Word each month on its website www.antiochian.org.

 DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME – Please remember to turn the clocks ahead one hour on Saturday night, March 12.  Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 13.

PASTORAL EMERGENCY – Fr. Michael will be out of town from Thursday through Saturday this week.  In the event of a pastoral emergency, please call Fr. Thomas Zain, Dean of St. Nicholas Cathedral, at (718) 855-6225 (office) or (718) 748-7940 (rectory).

 ANTIDORON – After receiving Holy Communion and at the end of the Divine Liturgy, it is customary to receive a piece of blessed bread or antidoron, the bread that remains after the preparation of the Holy Communion.  While antidoron is not Holy Communion, it is blessed, and as such should be eaten carefully so that crumbs do not fall.  Both adults and children should always remember to treat and consume the antidoron with respect.

 OFFERING ENVELOPES – Please note that if you receive monthly envelopes and do not use them, we cannot guarantee proper credit to your account.  There are always envelopes in the vestibule for this purpose.  Kindly use one of these envelopes if you have forgotten your own instead of just depositing a check or cash in the basket.  If you do not receive monthly envelopes, kindly inform the office, and the secretary will submit your name to the mailing company.  Thank you!

 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.

 ESTATE PLANNING – A bequest is one of the easiest gifts to make in order to impact the ministry of the Church significantly.  An estate plan can include a provision that leaves a lasting gift to St. Mary’s Church.  A bequest could be a gift of specific assets, a dollar amount, or a percentage of the estate.  A bequest could also be the residue of an estate after all gifts have been made to heirs.  Consider naming St. Mary’s as a beneficiary on your retirement accounts (such as an IRA).  Qualified charities are able to receive the full value of dollars in these plans without incurring income taxes

DATES TO REMEMBER

             Saturday, March 5                  Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, March 6                     Forgiveness Sunday

                                                            Forgiveness Vespers following the Divine Liturgy

            Monday, March 7                    Clean Monday – Great Lent Begins

                                                           Great Compline, 7:00 PM

            Wednesday, March 9              Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, 6:30 PM

                                                            Pot Luck Supper to follow

            Friday, March 11                     Community Dinner – Parish Council Hosts, 6:30 PM

First Madayeh/Akathist Hymn, 7:30 PM

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

            FROM THE FATHERS – “Sometimes evil presents itself as an endeavor to God’s glory, or as something with good intentions towards your neighbor.  Even in these cases, don’t trust this feeling.  It’s a wrong labor and is not filled with wisdom.  Instead, work on chasing evil from yourself.  Evil, however innocent it looks, offends God’s long-suffering love, which is His foremost glory.”

-        St. John of Kronsadt

Bulletin for Sunday, February 20, 2022

Sunday, February 20, 2022

Sunday of the Prodigal Son

Tone 2 and Eothinon 2

Leo, Bishop of Catania in Sicily

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 2

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of 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 Sunday)

                                                 Matthew 25:31-46 (Meat Fare)

FEBRUARY 20, 2022 – 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 20 - We 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!

 Dianna Russo Kitchen offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of Scarlet Diviney, Audrey and Charlie Sahadi, and Bob Sabbagh.  She also offers Prayers for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nouhad Massouh.  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!

 Rhonda Byrnes offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her parents, the servants of God Margaret and Charles Assatly.  Memory eternal!

 Irene Tashji offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Thomas Abdallah.  Memory eternal!

 The Ladies of St. Mary’s and St. Mary’s Choir offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of their dear departed sister in Christ Evelyn Shamoun.  Memory eternal!

 The Family of Louis Savarese will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of his soul.  A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy.  Memory eternal!

 John Alexander and Family offers Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Mary Alexander.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Yvonne Absey, Najibi Anthony, Jodat Arida, Tamina Arida, Mary Assatly, Donald Farkouh, Regina and Alexander Ghazal, William Haddad Sr., Mounir Kaba, Malak Karkenny, Walter John Lattof, Dianna G. Lewis, Lilly Malouf, Isabel Massabni, Eugenie Morgan, Naaman Nehme, Wendy Sadaka, Amin Salem, George Senior, and George Shamyer.  Memory eternal!

 FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Patricia DeLuca (Helen Hayes), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Robert Sabbagh (NYU Lutheran), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wanda Salloum, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 FASTING DISICIPLINE – The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their byproducts) is observed on Wednesday and Friday this week.  Meat Fare Sunday is next Sunday, February 27.

 POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – As the faithful approach to reverence the cross, receive a blessing and a piece of antidoron (holy bread) at the dismissal, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving.  Please greet each other quietly as we reverently hear these prayers.

 HOLY BREAD – Gloria Zain Darzi offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of February in loving memory of her beloved husband, Elias Darzi.  Memory eternal!  Linda and George Salamy have also made an offering for the entire year.  Many years!  Additional donors are welcome for February and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 SATURDAY OF THE SOULS – We will celebrate the traditional Divine Liturgy for the Saturday of the Souls on Saturday, February 26, at 10:30 AM.  Orthros will begin at 9:30 AM.  Please give your list of commemorations for the departed to Fr. Michael in advance of those services.  This service always precedes Meatfare Sunday which is February 27 this year.

 COVID POLICY – Given last week’s announcement by the Governor concerning masks, we are returning to our previous policy whereby everyone wears masks coming into and moving around the church; however, we recommend that worshippers who are up to date with vaccinations and boosters can remove their masks when seated.  We will continue to ask singers in the choir to wear masks, and we will ask everyone in Church School to continue masking.  We will revisit these protocols on a weekly basis.

 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – Last Sunday the Annual Parish Meeting re-elected Aline Farkouh and Rima Alsaifi Hazem and elected Gary Gangone to three-year terms on the Parish Council.  The pastor appointed Wade Saadi, Rob Sabbagh, and Dr. Yvonne Zrake to one-year terms.  At Monday’s meeting the Parish Council then elected Aline Farkouh as Chair, Dianna Russo Kitchen as Vice Chair, Diana Kaiami as Treasurer, and Irene Tashji as Secretary.  God bless all of their efforts!

 MAN OF GOD – On Monday, March 21, at 7:00 PM the AMC Theater at Sheepshead Bay will present “Man of God,” the story of St. Nektarios of Aegina, a saint of the early 20th century.  His story is very inspiring and is a welcome addition to a medium which often brings us unedifying content.  We are organizing a group from our church and the Cathedral and have reserved 50 tickets.  Please put your name on the sign-up sheet in the back of the church if you are interested.  Go to https://www.fathomevents.com/events/Man-of-God for more information.

 BYZANTINE CHANT CLASS – In an effort to cultivate additional chanters and readers for the divine services the pastor will offer a class on the rudiments of Byzantine chant at 4:30 on Saturday afternoons prior to the celebration of Great Vespers.  Singers and readers of all ages, experience, and abilities are welcome to participate. 

 ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – If any of our campers who have received their acceptance notices from the camp are in need of scholarship assistance, please be in direct contact with Fr. Michael in confidence.  We will make every attempt to meet everyone’s financial need.  We want as many of our children as possible to have a wonderful camping experience.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s invite all our parishioners (men too!) to participate in our humanitarian project this year.  We once again request the preparation of hygiene kits to be distributed to the homeless during the Midnight Run each month.  In a one gallon ZipLock bag please include:  1 washcloth, bar of soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, nail clipper, comb, 3 band-aids, disposable razor (optional).  Feel free to prepare more than one kit!  The kits can be given to Sandra Arida or any one of the Ladies.  Thank you all for your support.

 WINTER COAT DRIVE – The Teen SOYO Winter Coat Drive will continue for one more 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 to local charities and recipients, especially to the Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Center in Sunset Park.

 WORD MAGAZINE – Every member of a parish in the Antiochian Archdiocese is entitled to receive the Word Magazine at their home.  If you are not receiving the Word and wish to subscribe, go to https://forms.gle/sughatopgYmqJXXE7 to submit your address, or let Fr. Michael know.  The Archdiocese also publishes the Word each month on its website www.antiochian.org.

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

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

             Saturday, February 26               Matins 9:30 AM

Saturday of the Souls Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, February 27                 Meatfare Sunday

            Saturday, March 5                     Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, March 6                       Forgiveness Sunday

                                                            Forgiveness Vespers following the Divine Liturgy

            Monday, March 7                     Clean Monday – Great Lent Begins

                                                            Great Compline, 7:00 PM

            Wednesday, March 9                 Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, 6:30 PM

                                                             Pot Luck Supper to follow

            Friday, March 11                       Community Dinner – Parish Council Hosts, 6:30 PM

First Madayeh/Akathist Hymn, 7:30 PM

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

            FROM THE FATHERS – “Each person must bear the weaknesses of others.  Who is perfect?  Who can boast that he has kept his heart undefiled?  Hence, we are all sick, and whoever condemns his brother does not perceive that he himself is sick, because a sick person does not condemn another sick person.”

-        Elder Ephraim of the Holy Mountain

Bulletin for Sunday, February 13, 2022

Sunday, February 13, 2022

Sunday of the Pharisee and Publican

Tone 1 and Eothinon 1

Apostles and Martyrs Aquila and Priscilla

 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 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 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)

 POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – As the faithful approach to reverence the cross, receive a blessing and a piece of antidoron (holy bread) at the dismissal, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving.  Please greet each other quietly as we reverently hear these prayers.

 HOLY BREAD – Gloria Zain Darzi offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of February in loving memory of her beloved husband, Elias Darzi.  Memory eternal!  Linda and George Salamy have also made an offering for the entire year.  Many years!  Additional donors are welcome for February and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 FASTING DISICIPLINE – There is no fasting from February 13-19.

 COVID POLICY – Given this week’s announcement by the Governor concerning masks, we are returning to our return to previous policy whereby everyone wears masks coming into and moving around the church; however, once seated, parishioners who are up to date with vaccination (boosted) can remove their masks.  We will continue to ask singers in the choir to wear masks, and we will ask everyone in Church School to continue masking.  We will revisit these protocols on a weekly basis.

FEBRUARY 13, 2022 – 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 13 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Charles Balady III, David Bittar, Gloria Fadel, George Ganim, Emily Nassoor, George Sabah, Eleanor E. Saleeby, and Alberta Samaha.  Memory eternal!

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

Ghazal and Khalil Alsaifi offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Saltia Melaa, Emad Melaa, Shehadeh Melaa, Wadiaa Saad, and Ebrahim Alsaifi.  Memory eternal!

 Audrey and Charlie Sahadi offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Nouhad Massouh, the mother of Sam Kaiami.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Thomas Abdallah, Mary Alexander, 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!

 John Alexander and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Mary Alexander.  Memory eternal!

 The Family of Evelyn Shamoun will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul.  Memory eternal!

 The Ladies of St. Mary’s and St. Mary’s Choir will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of their dear departed sister in Christ Evelyn Shamoun.  Memory eternal!

 The Family of Louis Savarese will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of his soul.  A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy.  Memory eternal

 FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Patty DeLuca (Helen Hayes), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Robert Sabbagh (NYU Lutheran), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Alfred Nahas, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 COFFEE HOUR – Because of the Annual Parish Meeting today, our Teen SOYO will offer sandwiches, salads, and coffee for sale prior to the meeting.  Soda will be free.  We ask everyone to continue observing the requirements for indoor dining in New York City.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting is today following the Divine Liturgy.  Please submit the names of candidates for the Parish Council to Nominations Chair Dianna Russo Kitchen.  Be sure to secure the nominee’s willingness to serve before submitting a nomination.  All qualified voting members can register with one of the treasurers and obtain a ballot.  The newly constituted Parish Council will hold its organizational meeting tomorrow at 7:30 PM.

 SATURDAY OF THE SOULS – We will celebrate the traditional Divine Liturgy for the Saturday of the Souls on Saturday, February 26, at 10:30 AM.  Orthros will begin at 9:30 AM.  Please give your list of commemorations for the departed to Fr. Michael in advance of those services.  This service always precedes Meatfare Sunday which is February 27 this year.

 LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s invite all our parishioners (men too!) to participate in our humanitarian project this year.  We request the preparation of hygiene kits to be distributed to the homeless during the Midnight Run each month.  In a one gallon ZipLock bag please include:  1 washcloth, bar of soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, nail clipper, comb, 3 band-aids, disposable razor (optional).  Feel free to prepare more than one kit!  Give the kits to Sandra Arida or any of the Ladies.

 MAN OF GOD – On Monday, March 21, the AMC Theater at Sheepshead Bay will present “Man of God,” the story of St. Nektarios of Aegina, a saint of the early 20th century.  His story is very inspiring and is a welcome addition to a medium which often brings us unedifying content.  We are trying to organize a group from our church and the Cathedral.  Please let Fr. Michael know if you are interested.  Go to https://www.fathomevents.com/events/Man-of-God for more information.

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

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

             Sunday, February 13                 Annual Parish Meeting

            Monday, February 14                Parish Council, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, February 19               Alexander-Coan Wedding, 1:00 PM

                                                            No Great Vespers

            Saturday, February 26               Saturday of the Souls Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

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

            FROM THE FATHERS – “If a king leaves his treasure with a poor man, the one who receives it does not consider this treasure as his own property, but everywhere acknowledges his poverty, not daring to spend another’s treasure, because he always reasons with himself:  this treasure is not only not mine, but what is more has been left me by a powerful king, and he, when he wishes, will take it from me.  Thus should those who possess the grace of God think of themselves.  If they exalt themselves and their hearts begin to grow haughty, the Lord will take from them His grace, and they will be left the same as they were before receiving it.”

-        St. Macarius the Great

Bulletin for Sunday, February 6, 2022

 Sunday, February 6, 2022

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost and

After-Feast of the Presentation (Meeting) of Christ

Tone 8 and Eothinon 11

Martyr and Healer Julian of Homs

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 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 Holy and Unmercenary Healer Julian of Homs – Tone 3

 O Saint in conflict clad, and healing physician Julian, intercede with our merciful God that He may graciously grant forgiveness of sins to our souls.

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

 Epistle – 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 (Sixteenth Sunday of Luke)

 POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – As the faithful approach to reverence the cross, receive a blessing and a piece of antidoron (holy bread) at the dismissal, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving.  Please greet each other quietly as we reverently hear these prayers.

 HOLY BREAD – Gloria Zain Darzi offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of February in loving memory of her beloved husband, Elias Darzi.  Memory eternal!  Linda and George Salamy have also made an offering for the entire year.  Many years!  Additional donors are welcome for February and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 FEBRUARY 6, 2022 – SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTEACOST AND AFTER-FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION (MEETING) OF CHRIST

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

 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, FEBRUARY 6 - 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 health of the handmaiden of God Jan Taylor (Many years!) and for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Kurt Taylor.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13 – 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, Eleanor E. Saleeby, and Alberta Samaha.  Memory eternal!

 FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Alfred Nahas, Robert Sabbagh, Wanda Salloum, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 FASTING DISICIPLINE – The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their byproducts) is observed on all Wednesdays and Fridays from February 1-12.  There is no fasting from February 13-19.

 COVID POLICY – We ask all worshippers, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, to continue wearing their masks in church except when approaching to receive Holy Communion.  We ask everyone to observe the blue tape on the pews so that we can maintain appropriate social distancing.  We will review these conditions weekly.  Church School will resume for all grades today following Holy Communion.

 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, February 13, following the Divine Liturgy.  Please submit the names of candidates for the Parish Council to Nominations Chair Dianna Russo Kitchen.  Be sure to secure the nominee’s willingness to serve before submitting a nomination.

COFFEE HOUR – We are hosting Coffee Hours for the fully vaccinated in accordance with NYC requirements for indoor dining.  Just as we do in church, we will ask people to wear a mask at all times except when actively eating at your seat.   Servers wearing masks and gloves will distribute coffee, and individually wrapped bagels will be available.  Unvaccinated children under five years old can eat at the table with their parents or outside, and we ask that children not run around freely.  Children 5 to 11 years old are now expected to be vaccinated in order to attend Coffee Hour.

 PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – Room reservations are now available for the 2022 Parish Life Conference at the Antiochian Village in Ligonier, PA.  Go to https://registration.antiochianvillage.org/ParishLife2022 to reserve a room and to make meal arrangements.  Event registration is separate.  If you are planning to attend the conference from June 29 to July 3, please reserve a room as soon as possible because space is limited.

 LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s invite all our parishioners (men too!) to participate in our humanitarian project this year.  We once again request the preparation of hygiene kits to be distributed to the homeless during the Midnight Run each month.  In a one gallon ZipLock bag please include:  1 washcloth, bar of soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, nail clipper, comb, 3 band-aids, disposable razor (optional).  Feel free to prepare more than one kit!  The kits can be given to Sandra Arida or any one of the Ladies.  Thank you all for your support.

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

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

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

             Saturday, February 12               Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, February 13                 Annual Parish Meeting

            Monday, February 14                Parish Council, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, February 19               Alexander-Coan Wedding, 1:00 PM

            Saturday, February 26               Saturday of the Souls Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

            Sunday, February 26                 Meatfare Sunday

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

            FROM THE FATHERS – “Do not be irritated with him who bears malice against you and often wounds you by finding fault with you, but be compassionate to him, love him, saying: It is not he or she that is so full of malice against me, but it is the Devil who rages against me through them, and they themselves, poor creatures, are only tempted by him. As soon as this temptation ceases, they will be kind again.”

-        Righteous John, Wonderworker of Kronstadt

Bulletin for Sunday, January 30, 2022

Sunday, January 30, 2022

Fifteenth Sunday of Luke (Zacchaeus)

The Three Great Hierarchs and Ecumenical Teachers:

Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom

Tone 7 and Eothinon 10

Hieromartyr Hippolytos, Pope of Rome

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 Three Hierarchs – Tone 1

 Let us all come together and honor with songs of praise those three great stars of the three-sunned Trinity, who illuminated the universe with rays of divine doctrines; those rivers of wisdom flowing with honey, who watered the whole universe with streams of divine knowledge, Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and glorious John the golden-tongued; for they shall intercede with the Trinity for our sakes, who love their sayings.

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

 Epistle – Hebrews 13:7-16 (Three Hierarchs)

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

Verse.  The heavens declare the glory of God.

            BRETHREN, remember those who preside over you, who have spoken to you the word of God; and considering the outcome of their life, imitate their faith.  Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.  Do not be carried away by diverse and strange doctrines.  For it is a good thing for the heart to be confirmed by grace, not by foods which have not profited those who occupied themselves with them.

            We have an altar from which those serving the tabernacle have no authority to eat.  For the animals whose blood “is brought into the sanctuary” by the high priest “as an offering for sin,” their bodies are burned outside the camp.  For this reason Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through His own blood.

            Let us therefore go forth to Him “outside the camp,” bearing His reproach; for here we do not have a lasting city in here, but we seek the one which is to come.  Through Him therefore “let us offer up a sacrifice of praise” to God always, that is, the “fruit of lips” that confess His Name.  Do not forget to do good and to share, for God is well pleased with such sacrifices.

 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 6:16-7:1 (Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

 JANUARY 30, 2022 – THE THREE GREAT HIERARACHS AND ECUMENICAL TEACHERS:  BASIL THE GREAT, GREGORY THE THEOLOGIAN AND JOHN CHRYSOSTOM

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

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

TODAY, JANUARY 30 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lorice Arida, Najeeby Arida, Gabriel Ashie, Louis Assatly, Elaine Ateyeh, Laura Sayeg Awad, Leon Ayoub Brown, Georgette Captain, Shamseh Dalack, Siham Damalts, Jameel Farhood, Josephine Hadad, Matilda Halal, Daisy Hamod, Alex A. Hamwi, Lillian John, Olga Kalaf, Violet Karkenny, Mitchel Merhige, Philip Merhige, George Nader, Helen Awad Najjar, Ethel Phillips, Edgar Saadi, Victoria Saadi, and Yvonne Sahadi, William Shamoun, and Gail Hall Zarr.  Memory eternal!

 The Family of Evelyn Shamoun offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul.  Memory eternal!

 The Choir and the Ladies of St. Mary’s offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of their faithful member Evelyn Shamoun.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 6 – 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!

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

 FASTING DISICIPLINE – The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their byproducts) is observed on all Wednesdays and Fridays from February 1-12.  There is no fasting from February 13-19.

 FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF CHRIST IN THE TEMPLE– There will be an Evening Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Presentation of Christ on Tuesday, February 1, at 7:00 PM. Please begin your Eucharistic fast following an early and light lunch.

 FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Alfred Nahas, Robert Sabbagh, Wanda Salloum, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 COVID POLICY – Given the recent proliferation of the COVID-19 Omicron variant, we ask all worshippers, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, to continue wearing their masks in church except when approaching to receive Holy Communion.  We ask everyone to observe the blue tape on the pews so that we can maintain appropriate social distancing.  Household units may sit together.

 COFFEE HOUR – We are hosting Coffee Hours only for the fully vaccinated in accordance with NYC requirements for indoor dining.  Just as we do in church, we will ask people to wear a mask at all times except when actively eating at your seat.   Servers wearing masks and gloves will distribute coffee, and individually wrapped bagels will be available.  Unvaccinated children under five years old can eat at the table with their parents or outside, and we ask that children not run around freely.  Children 5 to 11 years old are now expected to be vaccinated in order to attend Coffee Hour.

 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, February 13, following the Divine Liturgy.  Please submit the names of candidates for the Parish Council to Nominations Chair Dianna Russo Kitchen.  Be sure to secure the nominee’s willingness to serve before submitting a nomination.

 LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s invite all our parishioners (men too!) to participate in our humanitarian project this year.  We once again request the preparation of hygiene kits to be distributed to the homeless during the Midnight Run each month.  In a one gallon ZipLock bag please include:  1 washcloth, bar of soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, nail clipper, comb, 3 band-aids, disposable razor (optional).  Feel free to prepare more than one kit!  The kits can be given to Sandra Arida or any one of the Ladies.  Thank you all for your support.

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

             Tuesday, February 1                 Evening Divine Liturgy for the Presentation of Christ, 7 PM

            Saturday, February 5                 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, February 13                 Annual Parish Meeting

            Monday, February 14                Parish Council, 7:30 PM

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

            FROM THE FATHERS – “As a pilot calls on winds and a storm-tossed mariner looks homeward, so the times call on you to win your way to God.  As God’s athlete, be sober; the stake is immortality and eternal life.”

-        St. Ignatius of Antioch the God-bearer

Bulletin for Sunday, January 9, 2022

Sunday, January 9, 2022

Sunday after the Theophany of Christ

Tone 4 and Eothinon 7

Martyr Polyeuktos of Armenia

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 Epiphany – Tone 1

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

 Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

 Kontakion of Epiphany – Tone 4

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

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

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

Verse.  Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

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

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

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

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

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

 Next week’s homework:          Colossians 3:4-11 (29th Sunday after Pentecost)

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

 POST-COMMUNION PRAYERS – As the faithful approach to reverence the cross, receive a blessing and a piece of antidoron (holy bread) at the dismissal, a reader will read the Post-Communion Prayers of Thanksgiving.  Please greet each other quietly as we reverently hear these prayers.

 HOLY BREAD – Dr. Bassam and Naziha Aldaia offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the health of their family.  Many years!  Additional donors are welcome for January and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 COVID POLICY – Given the recent proliferation of the COVID-19 Omicron variant, we ask all worshippers, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, to continue wearing their masks in church except when approaching to receive Holy Communion.  We ask everyone to observe the blue tape on the pews so that we can maintain appropriate social distancing.  Household units may continue to sit together.  We are also delaying the start of Church School at least until Sunday, January 16, out of an abundance of caution.

JANUARY 9, 2022 – SUNDAY AFTER THE THEOPHANY OF CHRIST

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

 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, JANUARY 9 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Eli T. Abdallah, Juad Arida, Pearl Arida, Samia Arida, Adele Azeez, Nora and Kalel Ballan, Mary Fadool, Ameenie Freije, Edward Ghazal, Emily Ghazal, Pauline Haddad, James Hamod, Maria Hindelly, Tofeek Kaidy, Leila M. Khouri, George John Nahas, Edma Saab, Madeleine H. Salamy, Alberta Samaha, Alexander Trabolsi, Nora Trefz, and Emil Tweel.  Memory eternal!

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

 The Family of Claire Banat offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul.  Memory eternal!

 Malakie and Richard Zogob offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Clair Banat.  Memory eternal!

 NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 16 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Ida and Gabriel Ashie, Alexander Azar, Barbara Boragi, Leon Ayoub Brown, Loretta Fianni, Rev. Melatios Fianni, Nora Hawa, Ramez Elhelou, Alex A. Howie, Riad Malouf, Frank Morgan, James D. Pappas, Ethel K. Phillips, Robert Samara, Farieda Sarafien, Renate M. and George Sheheri, Minas Sparsidis, Edmund Swaya, and Thomas A. Zarr.  Memory eternal!

 FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Alex Araman (NY Presbyterian), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Wanda Salloum (Hospital for Special Surgery), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, Diana Finger, Gary Gangone, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Alfred Nahas, Robert Sabbagh, Leon Smatt, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 FASTING DISICIPLINE – The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their byproducts) is observed on all Wednesdays and Fridays in January.

 ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – Registration for the camping season at the Antiochian Village Camp opened yesterday.  We expect demand for camping slots to be very high this year, so do not delay the registration of your campers, ages 9-18.  Go to www.avcamp.org as soon as possible.

COFFEE HOUR – We have resumed Coffee Hours only for the fully vaccinated in accordance with NYC requirements for indoor dining.  Just as we do in church, we will ask people to wear a mask at all times except when actively eating at your seat.   Servers wearing masks and gloves will distribute coffee, and individually wrapped bagels will be available.  We will ask everyone to use hand sanitizer before and after touching anything.  Unvaccinated children under five years old can eat at the table with their parents or outside, and we ask that children not run around freely.  Children 5 to 11 years old are now expected to be vaccinated in order to attend Coffee Hour.  Although these conditions are not optimal, we believe that the importance of fellowship means that we must continue to exercise caution.

 ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, February 13, following the Divine Liturgy.  Please submit the names of candidates to the Parish Council to Nominations Chair Dianna Russo Kitchen.  Be secure to secure the nominee’s willingness to serve before submitting a nomination.

 LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s invite all our parishioners (men too!) to participate in our humanitarian project this year.  We once again request the preparation of hygiene kits to be distributed to the homeless during the Midnight Run each month.  In a one gallon ZipLock bag please include:  1 washcloth, bar of soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, nail clipper, comb, 3 band-aids, disposable razor (optional).  Feel free to prepare more than one kit!  The kits can be given to Sandra Arida or any one of the Ladies.  Thank you all for your support.

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

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

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

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

 DATES TO REMEMBER

             Monday, January 10               Parish Council, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, January 15                No Great Vespers

            Sunday, February 13               Annual Parish Meeting

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

            FROM THE FATHERS – “In obedience, do not let logic work, but the heart.  Do not think:  The Elder said this, but he meant that, or he did not say it correctly.  Then, the wicked one will begin to fool you.”

-        Elder Epiphanios Theodoropoulos