Bulletin for Sunday, June 26, 2022 - Second Sunday after Pentecost

 

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, June 26, 2022

Second Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 1 and Eothinon 2

Venerable David of Thessalonica

 

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

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

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 Theotokos – Tone 2

 

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

Epistle – Romans 2:10-16 (Second Sunday after Pentecost)

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

Verse.  Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

 

            BRETHREN, glory and honor and peace for every one who does good, the Jew first and also the Greek.  For God shows no partiality.

            All who have sinned without the law will also perish without the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law.  For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified.  When Gentiles who have not the law do by nature what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law.  They show that what the law requires is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness and their conflicting thoughts accuse or perhaps excuse them on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.

 

Gospel – Matthew 4:18-23 (Second Sunday after Pentecost)

 

            AT THAT TIME, as Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen.  And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”  Immediately they left their nets and followed him.  And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them.  Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him.

            And he went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every infirmity among the people.

 

Next week’s homework:           Romans 5:1-10 (Third Sunday after Pentecost)

                                                Matthew 6:22-33 (Third Sunday of Matthew)

 

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

 

HOLY BREAD – The Family of Pierre Mansour offers the Holy Bread this week for the repose of his soul.  Dr. Nicholas El-Khoury offers the Holy Bread this week for the repose of the soul of his father George El-khoury.  Memory eternal!  Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the balance of the year.  Donors are welcome for July and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 

APOSTLES FAST – Each year the “Apostles Fast” or the “Fast of Saints Peter and Paul” extends from the Monday following All Saints Sunday until the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29).  Let’s use this short fast to pray for all those who lost their lives during the pandemic, for those surviving families who sustained losses, and for the Holy Spirit to draw everyone back to church.

 

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

JUNE 26, 2022 – SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

 

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

 

TODAY, JUNE 26 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Alice, Edward and Wadiha Baloutine, Mabel Bittar, Angela Boojamra, Nancy Davis, Florence Lewis Dibs, Margarete Haddad, Mary and Philip Hanna, Leon and Lillian Hattab, Gloria Jabara, Maggy Karam, Mae Karram, Lorraine Lewis, Lydia Lewis, George Massabni, Helen Sahadi, Marie Sayegh, Salvatore Savarese, Margaret Soued, and Baseem and Valentine Trabulsi.  Memory eternal!

 

Albert Absey offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Marie Sayegh.

 

Dr. Nicholas El-Khoury offers Prayers of Oblation week for the repose of the soul of his father, the servant of God George El-Khoury.  Memory eternal!

 

Corrine and Michael Mallia offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Maggy Karam.  Memory eternal!

 

The Family of Pierre Mansour offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of his soul.  Memory eternal!

 

The Trabulsi Family offers Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Marianne Trabulsi.  Memory eternal!

 

Joyce, Leila, Raymond, Tom and David Trabulsi will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Leon and Lillian Hattab, and Basseem, Herbert, John, Marianne, Valentine, and Victor Trabulsi.  Memory eternal!

 

NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 3 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. Fouad Dirbas, Jamila Eadeh, Michael Eyd, Norma Hamod, Marguerite and Fred Farkouh, Viola Kazan, George T. Lewis, and Georgette Maione.  Memory eternal!

 

Regina and Brian Farkouh will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Marguerite and Fred Farkouh.  Memory eternal!

 

Albert Khoury and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his aunt, the handmaiden of God Georgette Maione.  Memory eternal!

 

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

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Charles Bryant (Morristown), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, John Eyd, Aline Farkouh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Tony Tadross, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 

FAMILY NIGHT – We have resumed our Family Night gatherings at the church.  Our next gathering will be on Friday, July 8, at 7:00 PM.  All are welcome!

 

CHARITY BAKE SALE - Immediately following the Divine Liturgy in the Church Hall, Teen SOYO will host a Bake Sale for a good cause.  We are calling it "Sweets for Sophia."   Sophia and her family are living on campus at St. Vladimir’s Seminary until she receives a bone marrow transplant (from her mom Katie) in July.  She has three siblings at home - GIgi, Brigid, and Christopher.  Please make your checks payable to St Mary’s Church and put SOYO in the memo line.  For more information, please call Daria Mayrose at (917) 862-4608.

 

PASTORAL EMERGENCY – Fr. Michael will be out of town from Tuesday, June 28, through Saturday, July 2, for the Parish Life Conference at the Antiochian Village.  In the case of a pastoral emergency, contact Deacon Farid Farkouh at (347) 524-7708. 

 

COFFEE HOUR – In July and August the parish will host simplified Coffee Hours following the Divine Liturgy.  In the future we will be seeking volunteers to help with preparation and clean up.

 

ESTATE PLANNING – Have I included St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan for the sake of my children and grandchildren?

 

DATES TO REMEMBER

           

            June 29-July 3                           Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

Monday, July 11                        Parish Council, 7:30 PM

            Friday, July 15                           Midnight Run

            July 18-22                                 Clergy Symposium @ Antiochian Village

            August 1-14                               Dormition Fast

            Saturday, August 6                    Feast of the Transfiguration

            Thursday, September 8             Nativity of the Theotokos

            Sunday, September 11              St. Mary’s Feast Day Barbecue

            Saturday, September 17            Church School Sidewalk Sale

            Monday, September 19              Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

            Friday, September 30                Fall Hafli

            Saturday, October 15                 Bay Ridge Eats for a Cause

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

           

FROM THE FATHERS – “A mere glance at holy books arouses one towards the pious life.”

-       St. Epiphanius of Cyprus

-        

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, June 19, 2022-First Sunday after Pentecost: All Saints Sunday

 

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, June 19, 2022

First Sunday after Pentecost:  All Saints Sunday

Tone 8 and Eothinon 1

Apostle Jude (Thaddeus), Brother of the Lord

 

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 8

 

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

 

Apolytikion of All Saints – Tone 4

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

 

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

 

Kontakion of the Saints – Tone 8

 

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

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

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

Verse.  Bless God in the congregations.

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

Next week’s homework:          Romans 2:10-16 (Second Sunday after Pentecost)

                                                Matthew 4:18-23 (Second Sunday of Matthew)

 

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

JUNE 19, 2022 – FIRST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST:  ALL SAINTS SUNDAY

 

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

 

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

TODAY, JUNE 19 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Rose and George Samman, Olga and Albert Wardi, and Wadia Zain.  Memory eternal!

 

Nataliya Latushkina offers Payers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Alexander, Maria and Ivan.  Memory eternal!

 

Clemencia Saleeby offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Raffaella Zenni, sister of Catherine Saleeby.  Memory eternal!

 

Marwan Allaham and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of his sister, the handmaiden of God Layla Allaham.  A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy.  Memory eternal!

 

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 26 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Alice, Edward and Wadiha Baloutine, Mabel Bittar, Angela Boojamra, Nancy Davis, Florence Lewis Dibs, Margarete Haddad, Mary and Philip Hanna, Gloria Jabara, Maggy Karam, Mae Karram, Lorraine Lewis, Lydia Lewis, George Massabni, Helen Sahadi, Marie Sayegh, Salvatore Savarese, and Margaret Soued.  Memory eternal!

 

Corrine and Michael Mallia will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Maggy Karam.  Memory eternal!

 

The Trabulsi Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Marianne Trabulsi.  Memory eternal!

 

Joyce, Leila, Raymond, Tom and David Trabulsi will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Leon and Lillian Hattab, and Basseem, Herbert, John, Marianne, Valentine, and Victor Trabulsi.  Memory eternal!

 

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

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

 

FAMILY NIGHT – We have resumed our Family Night gatherings at the church.  Our next gathering will be on Friday, June 24 at 7:00 PM.  All are welcome!

 

APOSTLES FAST – Each year the “Apostles Fast” or the “Fast of Saints Peter and Paul” extends from the Monday following All Saints Sunday (tomorrow) until the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29).  Let’s use this short fast to pray for all those who lost their lives during the pandemic, for those surviving families who sustained losses, and for the Holy Spirit to draw everyone back to church.

 

CHARITY BAKE SALE - On Sunday, July 19, immediately following Divine Liturgy in the Church Hall, Teen SOYO will host a Bake Sale for a good cause.  We are calling it "Sweets for Sophia."   Sophia and her family are living on campus at St. Vladimir’s Seminary until she receives a bone marrow transplant (from her mom Katie) in July.  She has three siblings at home - GIgi, Brigid and Christopher.  Please make your checks payable to St Mary’s Church and put SOYO in the memo line.  For more information, please call Daria Mayrose at (917)862-4608

 

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP – “Our Time,” the new fellowship group at St. Mary’s for those over 50, will meet for a pleasurable two hours on Wednesday, June 22 from 1- 3 PM.  This gathering will be our last event until September.  So, bring your cards, games and friends for an afternoon of fellowship and fun.  Share your thoughts and ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616.

 

MIDNIGHT RUN – On the third Friday of each month Deacon Farid leads a group to participate in the Midnight Run which distributes food and clothing to the homeless on the streets of New York City. Volunteers can help in the early evening to prepare food for distribution, or they can make the actual trip a little later.  Please see Deacon Farid to volunteer or for more information.

 

DATES TO REMEMBER

           

            June 20-June 28                       Apostles Fast

Wednesday, June 22                 “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

            Friday, June 24                         Family Night, 7:00 PM

            Saturday, June 25                     Final Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            June 29-July 3                          Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

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

           

FROM THE FATHERS – “O relatives and close ones of the dead!  Do for them what is needful for them and within your power.  Use your money not for outward adornment of the coffin and grave, but in order to help those in need, in memory of your close ones who have died, for churches, where prayers for them are offered.  Show mercy to the dead, take care of their souls.  Before us all stands the same path, and how we shall then wish that we would be remembered in prayer!  Let us therefore be ourselves merciful to the dead.”

-        St. John Maximovitch of San Francisco

 

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 

 

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, June 19, 2022

First Sunday after Pentecost:  All Saints Sunday

Tone 8 and Eothinon 1

Apostle Jude (Thaddeus), Brother of the Lord

 

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 8

 

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

 

Apolytikion of All Saints – Tone 4

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

 

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

 

Kontakion of the Saints – Tone 8

 

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

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

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

Verse.  Bless God in the congregations.

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

Next week’s homework:          Romans 2:10-16 (Second Sunday after Pentecost)

                                                Matthew 4:18-23 (Second Sunday of Matthew)

 

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

JUNE 19, 2022 – FIRST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST:  ALL SAINTS SUNDAY

 

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

 

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

TODAY, JUNE 19 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Rose and George Samman, Olga and Albert Wardi, and Wadia Zain.  Memory eternal!

 

Nataliya Latushkina offers Payers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Alexander, Maria and Ivan.  Memory eternal!

 

Clemencia Saleeby offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Raffaella Zenni, sister of Catherine Saleeby.  Memory eternal!

 

Marwan Allaham and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of his sister, the handmaiden of God Layla Allaham.  A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy.  Memory eternal!

 

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 26 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Alice, Edward and Wadiha Baloutine, Mabel Bittar, Angela Boojamra, Nancy Davis, Florence Lewis Dibs, Margarete Haddad, Mary and Philip Hanna, Gloria Jabara, Maggy Karam, Mae Karram, Lorraine Lewis, Lydia Lewis, George Massabni, Helen Sahadi, Marie Sayegh, Salvatore Savarese, and Margaret Soued.  Memory eternal!

 

Corrine and Michael Mallia will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Maggy Karam.  Memory eternal!

 

The Trabulsi Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Marianne Trabulsi.  Memory eternal!

 

Joyce, Leila, Raymond, Tom and David Trabulsi will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Leon and Lillian Hattab, and Basseem, Herbert, John, Marianne, Valentine, and Victor Trabulsi.  Memory eternal!

 

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

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

 

FAMILY NIGHT – We have resumed our Family Night gatherings at the church.  Our next gathering will be on Friday, June 24 at 7:00 PM.  All are welcome!

 

APOSTLES FAST – Each year the “Apostles Fast” or the “Fast of Saints Peter and Paul” extends from the Monday following All Saints Sunday (tomorrow) until the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29).  Let’s use this short fast to pray for all those who lost their lives during the pandemic, for those surviving families who sustained losses, and for the Holy Spirit to draw everyone back to church.

 

CHARITY BAKE SALE - On Sunday, July 19, immediately following Divine Liturgy in the Church Hall, Teen SOYO will host a Bake Sale for a good cause.  We are calling it "Sweets for Sophia."   Sophia and her family are living on campus at St. Vladimir’s Seminary until she receives a bone marrow transplant (from her mom Katie) in July.  She has three siblings at home - GIgi, Brigid and Christopher.  Please make your checks payable to St Mary’s Church and put SOYO in the memo line.  For more information, please call Daria Mayrose at (917)862-4608

 

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP – “Our Time,” the new fellowship group at St. Mary’s for those over 50, will meet for a pleasurable two hours on Wednesday, June 22 from 1- 3 PM.  This gathering will be our last event until September.  So, bring your cards, games and friends for an afternoon of fellowship and fun.  Share your thoughts and ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616.

 

MIDNIGHT RUN – On the third Friday of each month Deacon Farid leads a group to participate in the Midnight Run which distributes food and clothing to the homeless on the streets of New York City. Volunteers can help in the early evening to prepare food for distribution, or they can make the actual trip a little later.  Please see Deacon Farid to volunteer or for more information.

 

DATES TO REMEMBER

           

            June 20-June 28                       Apostles Fast

Wednesday, June 22                 “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

            Friday, June 24                         Family Night, 7:00 PM

            Saturday, June 25                     Final Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            June 29-July 3                          Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

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

           

FROM THE FATHERS – “O relatives and close ones of the dead!  Do for them what is needful for them and within your power.  Use your money not for outward adornment of the coffin and grave, but in order to help those in need, in memory of your close ones who have died, for churches, where prayers for them are offered.  Show mercy to the dead, take care of their souls.  Before us all stands the same path, and how we shall then wish that we would be remembered in prayer!  Let us therefore be ourselves merciful to the dead.”

-        St. John Maximovitch of San Francisco

 

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 

Bulletin for Sunday, June 12, 2022, Great Feast of Holy Pentecost

 

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, June 12, 2022

Great Feast of Holy Pentecost

 

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

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

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

 

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

 

Apolytikion of Pentecost – Tone 8

 

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

 

Kontakion of Pentecost – Tone 8

 

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

 

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

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

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

Verse.  The heavens declare the glory of God.

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

JUNE 12, 2022 – GREAT FEAST OF HOLY PENTECOST

 

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

 

TODAY, JUNE 12 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Fouad Allawh, Edward Ateyeh, Jr., Michael Haje, Kathleen Halloran, Eduardo Khouzami, Joseph Mashamesh, Betty Massab, Nicholas Orfaly, Albert Sabah, and Marianne Trabulsi.  Memory eternal!

 

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

 

Rose Zrake offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of her son, the servant of God Gregory Zrake.  Many years!

 

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 19 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Rose and George Samman, Olga and Albert Wardi, and Wadia Zain.  Memory eternal!

 

Marwan Allaham and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of his sister, the handmaiden of God Laila Allaham.  Memory eternal!

 

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

 

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

 

APOSTLES FAST – Each year the “Apostles Fast” or the “Fast of Saints Peter and Paul” extends from the Monday following All Saints Sunday (next week) until the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29).  Let’s use this short fast to pray for all those who lost their lives during the pandemic, for those surviving families who sustained losses, and for the Holy Spirit to draw everyone back to church.

 

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP – “Our Time,” the new fellowship group at St. Mary’s for those over 50, will meet for a pleasurable two hours on Wednesday, June 22 from 1- 3 PM.  This gathering will be our last event until September.  So, bring your cards, games and friends for an afternoon of fellowship and fun.  Share your thoughts and ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616.

 

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 

FAMILY NIGHT – We have resumed our Family Night gatherings at the church.  Our next gathering will be on Friday, June 24 at 7:00 PM.  Among other offerings Leen Zgheib will give Debkeh lessons!  All are welcome!

 

MIDNIGHT RUN – On the third Friday of each month Deacon Farid leads a group to participate in the Midnight Run which distributes food and clothing to the homeless on the streets of New York City. Volunteers can help in the early evening to prepare food for distribution, or they can make the actual trip a little later.  The next Midnight Run is this Friday, June 17.  Please see Deacon Farid to volunteer or for more information.

 

YOUNG ADULT EVENT – The Young Adults will sponsor a Whiskey and Wine Tasting on Saturday, June 18.  Please see the flyer in this bulletin, or call Diana Kaiami at (718) 216-4807 or Amanda Alexander Rich at (917) 703-6043.

 

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

 

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, June 13                       Parish Council, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, June 18                     Young Adult-Sponsored Whiskey & Wine Tasting, 7:00 PM

            June 20-28                               Apostles Fast

Wednesday, June 22                 “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Friday, June 24                         Family Night, 7:00 PM

June 29-July 3                          Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

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

           

FROM THE FATHERS – “You are surprised that the world is losing its grip?  That the world is grown old?  Don’t hold onto the old man, the world; don’t refuse to regain your youth in Christ, who says to you: ‘The world is passing away; the world is losing its grip; the world is short of breath.  Don’t fear, your youth shall be renewed as an eagle.”

-        St. Augustine of Hippo

Bulletin for Sunday, June 5, 2022 Sunday of the Holy Fathers

 

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, June 5, 2022

Sunday of the After-Feast of the Ascension

Tone 6 and Eothinon 10

Commemoration of the Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 6

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Ascension – Tone 4

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Holy Fathers – Tone 8

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

 

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

Kontakion of the Ascension – Tone 6

 

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

 

Epistle – Acts 20:16-18, 28-36 (Sunday of the Holy Fathers of Nicea)

Prokeimenon.  Hymn of the Three Children.  Daniel 3.26-27.  Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our fathers.

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

JUNE 5, 2022 – SUNDAY OF THE AFTER-FEAST OF THE ASCENSION

 

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

 

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

 

TODAY, JUNE 5 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George Fattouh, Wadih Massab, and Henrietta Shawah.  Memory eternal!

 

Dr. Michael Smatt and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Leon Smatt.  Memory eternal!

 

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 12 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God.Fouad Allawh, Edward Ateyeh, Jr., Michael Haje, Kathleen Haloran, Eduardo Khouzami, Joseph Mashamesh, Betty Massab, Nicholas Orfaly, Albert Sabah, and Marianne Trabulsi.  Memory eternal!

 

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

 

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, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Nadiia Hryhoruk, Lily Lang, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Tony Tadross, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP – “Our Time,” the new fellowship group at St. Mary’s for those over 50, will meet for a pleasurable two hours on Wednesday, June 8 from 1- 3 PM.  So, bring your cards, games and friends for an afternoon of fellowship and fun.  Share your thoughts and ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616.

 

FAMILY NIGHT – We have resumed our Family Night gatherings at the church every other Friday.  Our next gathering will be on Friday, June 17 at 7:00 PM.  Among other offerings Leen Zgheib will give Debkeh lessons!  All are welcome!

 

MIDNIGHT RUN – On the third Friday of each month Deacon Farid leads a group to participate in the Midnight Run which distributes food and clothing to the homeless on the streets of New York City. Volunteers can help in the early evening to prepare food for distribution, or they can make the actual trip a little later.  Please see Deacon Farid to volunteer or for more information.

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

 

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its second award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

 

YOUNG ADULT EVENT – The Young Adults will sponsor a Whiskey and Wine Tasting on Saturday, June 18.  Please see the flyer in this bulletin, or call Diana Kiami at (718) 216-4807 or Samantha Alexander Coan at (917) 703-6043.

 

APOSTLES FAST – Each year the “Apostles Fast” or the “Fast of Saints Peter and Paul” extends from the Monday following All Saints Sunday (June 20) until the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29).  Let’s use this short fast to pray for all those who lost their lives during the pandemic, for those surviving families who sustained losses, and for the Holy Spirit to draw everyone back to church.

 

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 will or estate plan?  My grandchildren will be grateful I did!

 

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

 

DATES TO REMEMBER

           

            Wednesday, June 8                   “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

            Saturday, June 11                     Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Monday, June 13                       Parish Council, 7:30 PM

            Friday, June 17                         Midnight Run

                                                            Family Night, 7:00 PM

            Saturday, June 18                     Young Adult-Sponsored Whiskey & Wine Tasting, 7:00 PM

            June 29-July 3                          Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

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

           

FROM THE FATHERS – “Live through lowliness of mind instead of going to your death through pretentious pride.  We should not set ourselves up as guideposts, we should not consider ourselves sagacious, i.e., wise, we should not believe that we can direct ourslves.  We need assistance; we need guidance in addition to God’s grace.”

-        St. Dorotheos of Gaza

 

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, May 29, 2022 - Sunday of the Blind Man

 

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, May 29, 2022

Sixth Sunday of Holy Pascha:  Sunday of the Blind Man

Tone 5 and Eothinon 8

Martyrs Theodosia of Tyre and Theodosia of Constantinople

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

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

 

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 5

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

 

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

 

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

 

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

Epistle – Acts 16:16-34 (Blind Man)

 

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

MEGALYNARION FOR PASCHA (Tone 1) – Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord hath arisen upon thee; dance now and be glad, O Zion, and do thy exult, O pure Theotokos, in the arising of Him Whom thou didst bear.

 

COMMUNION HYMN (Tone 8) – Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality.

 

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

                                                John 17:1-13 (Sunday of the Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council)

 

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

MAY 29, 2022 – SIXTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA:  THE SUNDAY OF THE BLIND MAN

 

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

 

CHRIST IS RISEN!  TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, MAY 29 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Madeleine Abousleman, Thomas Gehshan, Archimandrite Agapios Golam, Rose Makhoul, Victoria Makhoul, Nicholas Malouf, John Moussy, Maurice Moussy, Khalil Nader, Sebastian Rothhammer, Victor M. Samra, Jr., Mildred Sarkis, Christ Sparsidis, and Theodore Tadross.  Memory eternal!

 

Gabriel Golam offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his uncle, the servant of God Archimandrite Agapios Golam.  Memory eternal!

 

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 5 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God. George Fattouh, Wadih Massab, and Henrietta Shawah.  Memory eternal!

 

Dr. Michael Smatt and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Leon Smatt.  Memory eternal!

 

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, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Lily Lang, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Tony Tadross, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR JUNE – There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 12.  The week following Holy Pentecost (June 13-19) is fast free.  The Fast of the Apostles begins on Monday, June 20, and continues through Tuesday, June 28, in anticipation of the Feast of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul on June 29. 

 

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

 

FEAST OF THE ASCENSION – Fr. Michael will travel to Boston this week for the funeral of Robert H. Laham, the former long-time treasurer of the Antiochian Archdiocese; therefore, there will be no services for the Feast of the Ascension at St. Mary’s Church.  We encourage our faithful either to attend Matins at 6 PM and the Divine Liturgy at 7 PM on Wednesday, June 1,  at St. Nicholas Cathedral, or to attend Matins at 8:30 AM and the Divine Liturgy at 9:45 AM on Thursday, June 2,  at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church.   If attending the services at St. Nicholas, please begin your Eucharistic fast after an early and light lunch.

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.  Our next gathering is Wednesday, June 8.  Watch for more information and share your thoughts and ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616.

 

BAKING GENIUSES – In anticipation of their Palm Sunday Ma’amoul Bake Sale a wonderful group of bakers set out to make 250 dozen ma’amoul.  By the time they stopped taking orders and baking they had made over 450 dozen!  As a result, on Friday, Fr. Michael presented a check for $10,000 to International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) in support of their programs on behalf of the suffering people of Syria and Lebanon.  The baking was excellent, the fellowship was better, and their efforts supported a vitally important cause.  We thank Audrey and Charlie Sahadi for their very generous donation of many of the necessary ingredients.  Congratulations to Sonia Abunaoum, Rima Alsifi-Hazem, Mayada Baroudy, Nahla Bittar, Majdeline Elkhoury, Marie Fallah, Aline Farkouh, Siham Fattouh, Antoinette Ghattas, Alyssa Haddad, Roula Hana, Hilani Hanna, Marianne Hindelly, Terez Khoury, Kinana Isber, Hanadi Kaba-Maalouf, Daria Mayrose, Hend Kaba, Lina Kaba, Maha Kaba. Samia Keriaky, Razan Khoury-Maalouf, Nahla Laham, Chaza Rafiaa, Vanda Salloum, Irene Tashji, Rana Yaziji, Josephine Zgheib, Leen Zgheib, and Yvonne Zrake.  God bless your very talented hands!

 

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2022.

 

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

 

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its second award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

 

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

 

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

            Wednesday, June 1                   Leavetaking of Holy Pascha

Orthros, 6 PM and Divine Liturgy,7 PM @ St. Nicholas

            Thursday, June 2                      Ascension Thursday

                                                            Orthors, 8:30 AM and Divine Liturgy, 9:45 @ Holy Cross

            Saturday, June 4                       Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Wednesday, June 8                   “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

            Sunday, June 12                       Holy Pentecost

            Monday, June 13                       Parish Council, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, June 18                     Young Adult-Sponsored Whiskey & Wine Tasting, 7:00 PM

            Monday, June 20                       Apostles Fast Begins

            Saturday, June 25                     Final Great Vespers

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

           

FROM THE FATHERS – “Let no one grieve at his poverty, for the universal kingdom has been revealed.  Let no one mourn that he has fallen again and again; for forgiveness has risen from the grave.  Let no one fear death, for the death of our Savior has set us free.  He has destroyed it by enduring it.”

-        St. John Chrysostom

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 “Christos Anesti”                      “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese”      “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam”                      “Ha’an Qam”

 

CHRIST IS RISEN!  TRULY HE IS RISEN!

 

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 

Bulletin for Sunday, May 22, 2022 - Sunday of the Samaritan Woman

 

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, May 22, 2022

Sunday of the Samaritan Woman

Tone 4 and Eothinon 7

Holy Fathers of the Second Ecumenical Council

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

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

 

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 4

 

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

 

Apolytikion of Mid-Pentecost – Tone 8

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

 

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

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

 

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

 

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 11:19-30 (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman)

Prokeimenon.  Psalm 103.24, 1.  O Lord, how magnificent are your works.  You have made all things in wisdom.

Verse.  Bless the Lord, O my soul.

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

MEGALYNARION FOR PASCHA (Tone 1) – Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord hath arisen upon thee; dance now and be glad, O Zion, and do thy exult, O pure Theotokos, in the arising of Him Whom thou didst bear.

 

COMMUNION HYMN (Tone 8) – Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality.

 

Next week’s homework:           Acts 16:16-34 (Sunday of the Blind Man)

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

 

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

 

MAY 22, 2022 – FIFTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA:  THE SUNDAY OF THE SAMARITAN WOMAN

 

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

 

CHRIST IS RISEN!  TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, MAY 22 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George Alsifi, Lorraine Ghiz, Rose Ghiz, Abraham Karkenny, Margaret Kassatly, Valerie Konecny, Brian Mackoul, Marie and George Saab, Samuel Samman, and Gloria Rose Shawah.  Memory eternal!

 

Dr. Rami Atallah and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of his mother, the handmaiden of God Hind Atallah, who departed this life in Syria in the hope of the Resurrection.  Memory eternal!

 

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 29 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Madeleine Abousleman, Thomas Gehshan, Archimandrite Agapios Golam, Rose Makhoul, Victoria Makhoul, Nicholas Malouf, John Moussy, Maurice Moussy, Khalil Nader, Sebastian Rothhammer, Victor M. Samra, Jr., Mildred Sarkis, Christ Sparsidis, and Theodore Tadross. Memory eternal!

 

Gabriel Golam will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his uncle, the servant of God Archimandrite Agapios Golam.  Memory eternal!

 

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, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Gloria and Kenneth Jabara, Lily Lang, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Jackie Jabara Robinson, Renee Setteducato, Tony Tadross, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 

FASTING DISCIPLINE – We now return to our normal fasting practice.  Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, June 2.  There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 12.

 

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

 

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMPERS – We have scholarship assistance available for any Antiochian Village camper this summer in order to cover tuition, transportation, or other incidental expenses.  Please contact Fr. Michael directly.

 

ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN MISSION CENTER – The most recent mailing of our offering envelopes had a yellow envelope for the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) with headquarters in St. Augustine, FL.  We invite everyone to be as generous as possible in supporting Orthodox missions and missionaries domestically and around the world.  If you are not receiving offering envelopes at home, please contact the church office or Fr. Michael.

 

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.  Our next gathering is this Wednesday, May 25.  Watch for more information and share your thoughts and ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616.

 

BAKING GENIUSES – In anticipation of their Palm Sunday Ma’amoul Bake Sale a wonderful group of bakers set out to make 250 dozen ma’amoul.  By the time they stopped taking orders and baking they had made over 450 dozen!  As a result, on Friday, Fr. Michael presented a check for $10,000 to International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) in support of their programs on behalf of the suffering people of Syria and Lebanon.  The baking was excellent, the fellowship was better, and their efforts supported a vitally important cause.  Congratulations to Sonia Abunaoum, Rima Alsifi-Hazem, Mayada Baroudy, Nahla Bittar, Majdeline Elkhoury, Marie Fallah, Aline Farkouh, Siham Fattouh, Antoinette Ghattas, Alyssa Haddad, Hilani Hanna, Marianne Hindelly, Terez Khoury, Kinana Isber, Hanadi Kaba-Maalouf, Daria Mayrose, Hend Kaba, Lina Kaba, Maha Kaba. Samia Keriaky, Razan Khoury-Maalouf, Nahla Laham, Chaza Rafiaa, Vanda Salloum, Irene Tashji, Josephine Zgheib, Leen Zgheib, and Yvonne Zrake.  God bless your very talented hands!

 

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2022.

 

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

 

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its second award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

 

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

           

            Wednesday, May 25                  “Our Time” Fellowship, 1-3 PM

            Saturday, May 28                      Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Wednesday, June 1                   Vesperal Divine Liturgy for the Ascension, 7:00 PM

            Thursday, June 2                      Ascension Thursday

            Sunday, June 12                       Holy Pentecost

            Monday, June 13                       Parish Council, 7:30 PM

            Saturday, June 18                     Young Adult-Sponsored Whiskey & Wine Tasting, 7:00 PM

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

           

FROM THE FATHERS – “When the matter relates to God’s mysteries, do not inwardly ask:  how can this be?  You do not know how God created the whole world from nothing, you cannot and may not know here either how God mysteriously works.  God’s mystery must remain a mystery for you, because you are not God, and cannot know all that is known to the eternally wise Almighty God.  You are the work of His hands, His most insignificant creature.  Remember that there was a time when there was nothing and that afterwards all that now exists was created out of nothing by the Word of God.”

-       St. John of Kronstadt

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 “Christos Anesti”                       “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese”                   “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam”                      “Ha’an Qam”

 

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

 

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 

Bulletin for Sunday, May 15, 2022 - Sunday of the Paralytic

 

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, May 15, 2022

Fourth Sunday of Pascha:  Sunday of the Paralytic

Tone 3 and Eothinon 5

Venerable Pachomios the Great of Egypt

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

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

 

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 3

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

 

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

 

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

 

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

 

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 9:32-42 (Sunday of the Paralytic)

Prokeimenon.  Psalm 46.6, 1.  Sing praises to our God, sing praises.

Verse.  Clap your hands, all you nations.

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

MEGALYNARION FOR PASCHA (Tone 1) – Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord hath arisen upon thee; dance now and be glad, O Zion, and do thy exult, O pure Theotokos, in the arising of Him Whom thou didst bear.

 

COMMUNION HYMN (Tone 8) – Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality.

 

Next week’s homework:           Acts 11:19030 (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman)

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

MAY 15, 2022 – FOURTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA:  THE SUNDAY OF THE PARALYTIC

 

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

 

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

 

CHRIST IS RISEN!  TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, MAY 15 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Asma Araman, Michael Davis, William Eyd, Nadra and Habdo Haddad, James Harris, Murad Kaidy, Ibrahim Laham, Wadea Massab, Yvonne Najjar, Toufic Nehme, Richard Sahadi, Ratiba Sukkarieh, and Careemy and George Zaher.  Memory eternal!

 

Corinne and Michael Mallia and Family offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God May Achou Tan, who departed this life in Paris in the hope of the Resurrection.  Memory eternal!

 

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 22 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George Alsifi, Lorraine Ghiz, Rose Ghiz, Abraham Karkenny, Margaret Kassatley, Valerie Konecny, Brian Mackoul, Marie and George Saab, Samuel Samman, and Gloria Rose Shawah. Memory eternal!

 

Dr. Rami Atallah and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of his mother, the handmaiden of God Hind Atallah, who departed this life in Syria in the hope of the Resurrection.  Memory eternal!

 

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, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Gloria and Kenneth Jabara. Lily Lang, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Jackie Jabara Robinson, Renee Setteducato, Tony Tadross, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 

FASTING DISCIPLINE – We have returned to our normal fasting practice.  Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, June 2.  There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 12.

 

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

 

HOLY BREAD – Today the family of James Harris offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the repose of his soul.  Memory eternal!  Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the balance of the year.  Donors are welcome for May and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 

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.  Our next gathering will be Wednesday, May 25.  So, bring your cards, games and friends for an afternoon of fellowship and fun.  Watch for more information and share your ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616.

 

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2022.

 

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

 

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its second award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  Contact Fr. Michael for more information.

 

DATES TO REMEMBER

           

            Saturday, May 21                      NO GREAT VESPERS

                                                            100th Anniversary Banquet, Little Falls, NJ, 6-11 PM

            Wednesday, May 25                  “Our Time” – Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

            Saturday, May 28                      Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Thursday, June 2                      Ascension Thursday

            Saturday, June 18                     Young Adult-Sponsored Whiskey & Wine Tasting, 7:00 PM

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

               

FROM THE FATHERS – “The Lord Himself will be your helper in all things.  Simply desire it wholeheartedly and turn to the Lord for His much-needed help.  His grace-filled power will merge with your effort, and things will go easily and successfully.  As there is no sin that can overcome the mercy of God, so there is no moral uncleanness that can resist the grace-filled power that aconsumes it.  Only on your part, let there be a lack of desire for this uncleanness, an earnest effort to repulse it, and your recourse in faith to the Lord.”

-       St. Theophan the Recluse

 

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

 

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, May 8, 2022 - Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women

 

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, May 8, 2022

The Holy Myrrh-Bearing Women,

Pious Joseph of Arimathea and Righteous Nicodemus

Tone 2 and Eothinon 4

Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian

 

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

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

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

 

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

 

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

 

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 2

 

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

 

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

 

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

Apolytikion of the Myrrh Bearing Women – Tone 2

 

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

 

Apolytikion of St. John the Theologian – Tone 2

 

O Apostle John, beloved of Christ our God, hasten to deliver a defenseless people.  He that allowed thee to recline on His breast receiveth thee bowing in intercession.  Implore Him, O Theologian, to dispel the persistent cloud of the heathen, and ask for us His peace and Great Mercy.

 

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

 

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

 

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

 

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

 

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 6:1-7 (Myrrh-Bearing Women)

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

Verse.  The Lord has chastened me sorely.

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

MEGALYNARION FOR PASCHA (Tone 1) – Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord hath arisen upon thee; dance now and be glad, O Zion, and do thy exult, O pure Theotokos, in the arising of Him Whom thou didst bear.

 

COMMUNION HYMN (Tone 8) – Receive ye the body of Christ; taste ye the Fountain of immortality.

 

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

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

 

FASTING DISCIPLINE – We have returned to our normal fasting practice.  Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, June 2.  There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 12.

 

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

 

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.

 

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – Please remember to return your FFHP collection boxes and other donations as soon as possible.

 

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

 

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

MAY 8, 2022 – THE HOLY MYRRH-BEARING WOMEN, PIOUS JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA, AND PIOUS NICODEMUS

 

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

 

CHRIST IS RISEN!  TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, MAY 8 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Ateyeh, Nour Abou-Assali El Khoury, Rose Hanna, James Harris, and Gladys and Theodore Sadaka.  Memory eternal!

 

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 15 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Asma Araman, Michael Davis, William Eyd, Nadra and Habdo Haddad, Murad Kaidy, Ibrahim Laham, Wadea Massab, Yvonne Najjar, Toufic Nehme, Richard Sahadi, Ratiba Sukkarieh, and Careemy and George Zaher.  Memory eternal!

 

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, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Gabe Golam, Gloria and Kenneth Jabara, Lily Lang, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Jackie Jabara Robinson, Renee Setteducato, Tony Tadross, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

 

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will hold its regular monthly meeting tomorrow, May 9, at 7:30 PM.

 

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 for two hours beginning this Wednesday, May 11 and again on May 25.  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.

 

PASTORAL EMERGENCY – Fr. Michael will be out of town from Thursday, May 12 through Saturday, May 14 for the Archdiocese Board of Trustees Meeting at the Antiochian Village.  In the event of a pastoral emergency, please call Deacon Farid at (929) 568-7978.

 

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2022.

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college.  Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2022.  For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

 

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

 

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its second award this year from the fund from Georgette’s estate.  Contact Fr. Michael for information.

 

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

 

DATES TO REMEMBER

           

            Monday, May 9                         Parish Council, 7:30 PM

            Wednesday, May 11                  “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1:00-3:00 PM

            Saturday, May 14                      NO GREAT VESPERS

Thursday, June 2                      Ascension Thursday

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

           

FROM THE FATHERS – “Have no anxiety about anything, but in everthing by prayer and supplication with thanskgiving let your requests be made know to God.  And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

-       Philippians 4:6-7

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 “Christos Anesti”                       “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese”       “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam”                      “Ha’an Qam”

 

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

 

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 

Bulletin for Sunday, May 1, 2022 - Thomas Sunday

 

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, May 1, 2022

New Sunday or Anti-Pascha

Sunday of Thomas the Apostle, Called “The Twin”

 

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

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

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

 

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

 

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

 

Apolytikion of St. Thomas - Tone 7

 

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

 

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

Next week’s homework:           Acts 6:1-7 (Myrrh-Bearing Women)

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

 

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

MAY 1, 2022 – NEW SUNDAY

 

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

CHRIST IS RISEN!  TRULY HE IS RISEN!

 

TODAY, MAY 1 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God James Coury, Diane Elkas Grinnell, Yvonne Khoury, Renee Matouk, Viola Mesnouh, Y. Nicholas, Nazira and Gabriel Samen, Margaret Soued, Nada Traboulsi, and Salma Torpey.  Memory eternal!

 

Peter Elkas offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his sister, the handmaiden of God Diane Elkas Grinnell.  Memory eternal!

 

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

 

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 8 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Ateyeh, Nour Abou-Assali El Khoury, Rose Hanna, James Harris, and Gladys and Theodore Sadaka.  Memory eternal!

 

FASTING DISCIPLINE – We now return to our normal fasting practice.  Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, June 2.  There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 12.

 

HOLY BREAD – Today the family of James Harris offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the repose of his soul.  Memory eternal!  Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the balance of the year.  Donors are welcome for May and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 

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

 

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

 

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its second award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate.  Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families.  See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com.  Application deadline is June 1, 2022.

 

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college.  Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2022.  For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

 

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

 

FR. PAUL SCHNEIRLA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – Teen SOYO will once again offer this scholarship at the Parish Life Conference in loving memory of our beloved former pastor.  This scholarship is presented on the basis of academic excellence.

 

DATES TO REMEMBER

               

            Saturday, May 7                        Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Monday, May 9                         Parish Council, 7:30 PM

Thursday, June 2                      Ascension Thursday

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

           

FROM THE FATHERS – “True hope seeks only the Kingdom of God.”

-       St. Seraphim of Sarov

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 “Christos Anesti”                       “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese”                   “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam”                      “Ha’an Qam”

 

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

 

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Holy Pascha, April 24, 2022 - Christ is risen!

 

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 24, 2022

Great and Holy Pascha

 

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

 

Today’s Hymns and Readings

 

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

 

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

 

Hypakoe of Holy Pascha – Tone 4

 

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

 

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

 

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

 

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 1:1-8 (Holy Pascha)

 

Prokeimenon.  Psalm 117.24, 29.  This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Verse.  Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his mercy endures forever.

 

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

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

 

Gospel – John 1:1-17 (Holy Pascha)

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

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

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

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

           

Next week’s homework:           Acts 12:1-11 (Second Sunday of Holy Pascha)

                                                John 20:19-31 (Thomas Sunday)

 

APRIL 24, 2022 – GREAT AND HOLY PASCHA

 

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

CHRIST IS RISEN!  TRULY HE IS RISEN!

 

TODAY, APRIL 24 - On Holy Pascha we pray for all “the quick and the dead” of the parish.  Memory eternal!

 

NO FASTING – The church prohibits fasting all week due to the joy of the Resurrection.  Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, June 10.  There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 20.

 

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 1 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God James Coury, Diane Elkas Grinnell, Albert Kaidy, Yvonne Khoury, Alexander Warren Matouk, Renee Matouk, Viola Mesnouh, Y. Nicholas, Nazira and Gabriel Samen, Margaret Soued, Nada Traboulsi, and Salma Torpey.  Memory eternal!

 

AGAPE BREAKFAST - Audrey and Charles Sahadi and Robert Sahadi have made their annual donation toward the Breakfast for Holy Pascha in loving memory of Najla and Wade Sahadi, Richie Sahadi, and Ameenie Freije.  Memory eternal!

 

HOLY BREAD – Donors are welcome for May and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

 

AGAPE VESPERS – At Agape Vespers at noon on Holy Pascha, April 24, we will read the Gospel in many languages.  Please see Fr. Michael if you would like to read in a foreign language.

 

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

 

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

 

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – Please remember to submit your FFHP donations as soon as possible.  If writing a check, please make it payable to St. Mary’s Church with FFHP in the memo line.

MEMORY ETERNAL!  We are saddened to announce that the servant of God Leon Smatt departed this life in hope of the Resurrection late on Holy Thursday.  We extend our sympathies to his son, Dr. Michael Smatt, and his family.  Funeral arrangements are pending, but we expect that a Bright Week funeral will take place on Monday or Tuesday.  May his memory be eternal!

 

BEQUEST RECEIVED – The servant of God Edward Hanna has made a significant bequest to the St. Mary’s Church Endowment Fund through his estate plan.  We encourage all of our faithful members to emulate his example.  For information on how to make a bequest through your will or estate, please see either Wade Saadi, Aline Farkouh or Fr. Michael.

 

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

 

DATES TO REMEMBER

 

            Sunday, April 24                        Agape Vespers, 12:00 PM

            Saturday, April 30                      Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, May 1                          Thomas Sunday

            Saturday, May 7                        Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Monday, May 9                         Parish Council, 7:30 PM

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

               

FROM THE FATHERS – “God the Lord surrendered His own Son to death on the Cross for the fervent love of creation.  For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son to death for our sake (cf. John 3:16).  This was not, however, because He could not have redeemed us in another way, but so that His surpassing love, manifested hereby, might be a teacher unto us.  And by the death of His only begotten Son He made us near to Himself.  Yea, if He had had anything more precious, He would have given it to us, so that by it our race might be His own.”

-       St. Isaac the Syrian

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 “Christos Anesti”                       “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese”                   “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam”                      “Ha’an Qam”

 

CHRIST IS RISEN!  INDEED HE IS RISEN!

 

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America