Bulletin for Sunday, November 13, 2022 - St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople

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

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

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

Sunday, November 13, 2022

St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople

Tone 5 and Eothinon 11

Venerable Martyrs Damaskinos and Damian of the Great Lavra on Athos

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 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 St. John Chrysostom – Tone 8

Grace hath shone forth from thy mouth like fire, illuminating the inhabited world. Thou has treasured for the world the treasures of silver-hating and revealed to us the sublimity of humility. Wherefore, O educator, by thy words, O John the golden-mouthed, intercede with Christ God to save our souls.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

Epistle – Hebrews 7:26-28; 8:1-2 (St. John Chrysostom)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 48:3, 1. My mouth shall speak wisdom, and the meditation of my heart shall be understanding.

Verse. Hear this, all you nations.

BRETHREN, it was fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, blameless, unstained, separated from sinners, exalted above the heavens. He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people; he did this once for all when he offered up himself. Indeed, the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect forever.

Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, a minister in the sanctuary and the true tent which is set up not by man but by the Lord.

Gospel – Luke 10:25-37 (Eighth Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, a lawyer stood up to put Jesus to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “What is written in the law? How do you read?” And the lawyer answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” And Jesus said to him, “You have answered right; do this, and you will live.”

But the lawyer, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion, and went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; then he set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, “Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ Which of these three, do you think, proved neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” The lawyer said, “The one who showed mercy on him.” And Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

Next week’s homework: Ephesians 2:4-10 (Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost)

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

HOLY BREAD – Marie Zarr and Gale Zarr will offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of November in loving memory of their dearly departed family members George Zarr, Rose Zarr, Gregory Zarr, Gail Hall Zarr, Dolores Marinacci and Nazeer Almumen. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for November and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

NOVEMBER 13, 2022 – ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, ARCBHISHOP OF CONSTANTINOPLE

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

TODAY, NOVEMBER 13 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Claire Banat, Edward Richard Eadeh, Alice Elkas, Charlene Alekel Goldrick, George R. Haddad, Rashida Marie Haddad, Aziz Malika, Gabriella R. Sadaka, and George Taweel. Memory eternal!

Peter Elkas offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his mother, the handmaiden of God Alice Elkas. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Ganim, Antonia Khoury, George Malouf, Zakia Tannous Khoury, and Souhaila Jada Sciacchitano. Memory eternal!

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

The Family of George Malouf will offer the Holy Bread and Prayers of Oblation for the repose of his soul. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

The Family of the handmaiden of God Annette Lattof will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Claudette Teen (Hamilton Park), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Alex Araman, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Nicole Khouzami, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Victoria Sleyman, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), Nancy Zarouni, and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

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

FALL HARVEST LUNCHEON – The Church School PTO invites everyone to share a Thanksgiving dinner today following the Divine Liturgy.

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will meet tomorrow evening at 7:00 PM in the church prior to adjourning to the balcony.

BIBLE STUDY – We will resume our Fall Bible Study of the book of Genesis on Thursday, November 17, at 7:00 PM. Please bring your Orthodox Study Bible, or see Lorraine Deeb to get one from the bookstore. All are welcome!

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

IOCC SUNDAY – Our November pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for “International Orthodox Christian Charities” dated November 20. We annually receive this collection on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Our faithful can either drop their envelope in the collection tray on Sundays or return it to the church office. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes, please inform the church office so that we can add you to our list of supporters. Thank you for your support of IOCC.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE - The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique on Saturday, December 3 (9:30am - 4pm), and Sunday, December 4th (12:30pm - 3:00pm). We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year we are accepting only donations of costume and better jewelry. If you can donate jewelry, please contact Marianne Hindelly at (917) 309-5302 by Monday, November 28. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 4, to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771–2427, if you are available or have any questions.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, November 14 Parish Council, 7:00 PM in the church

Tuesday, November 15 Advent Begins

Thursday, November 17 Bible Study, 7:00 PM

Saturday, November 19 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, November 20 IOCC Sunday

Thursday, November 24 Thanksgiving Day

Saturday, November 26 No Great Vespers

Thursday, December 1 Ladies’ Christmas Boutique Set up

Saturday, December 3 Ladies of St. Mary’s Christmas Boutique

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Make sure that you do not limit your prayer merely to a particular part of the day. Turn to prayer at any time.”

- St. John Chrysostom

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, November 6, 2022 - Twenty-First 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

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

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

Sunday, November 6, 2022

Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 4 and Eothinon 10

Paul the Confessor, Archbishop of Constantinople

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of St. Paul the Confessor – Tone 3

Thy confession of the one divine faith showed thee to the Church to be a new Paul and a zealot among priests, O holy one. The righteous blood both of Abel and Zachary with thee doth cry out together unto the Lord. Righteous Father, intercede with Christ God in our behalf that His Great Mercy may be granted unto us.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion 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 – Galatians 2:16-20 (Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost)

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.

BRETHREN, you know that a man is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ, and not by works of the law, because by works of the law shall no one be justified. But if, in our endeavor to be justified in Christ, we ourselves were found to be sinners, is Christ then an agent of sin? Certainly not! But if I build up again those things which I tore down, then I prove myself a transgressor. For I through the law died to the law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Gospel – Luke 8:41-56 (Seventh Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, there came to Jesus a man named Jairus, who was a ruler of the synagogue; and falling at Jesus’ feet, he besought him to come to his house, for he had an only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she was dying.

As Jesus went, the people pressed round him. And a woman who had had a flow of blood for twelve years, and had spent all her living upon physicians, and could not be healed by any one, came up behind him, and touched the fringe of his garment; and immediately her flow of blood ceased. And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the multitudes surround you and press upon you, and you say, ‘Who touched me?’” But Jesus said, “Some one touched me; for I perceive that power has gone forth from me.” And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed. And Jesus said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.”

While Jesus was speaking, a man from the ruler’s house came and said, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher any more.” But Jesus on hearing this answered him, “Do not fear; only believe, and she shall be well.” And when Jesus came to the house, he permitted no one to enter with him, except Peter and James and John, and the father and mother of the child. And all were weeping and bewailing her; but Jesus said, “Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But taking her by the hand Jesus called, saying, “Child, arise.” And her spirit returned, and she got up at once; and Jesus directed that something should be given her to eat. And her parents were amazed; but he charged them to tell no one what had happened.

Next week’s homework: Hebrews 7:26-8:2 (St. John Chrysostom)

Luke 10:25-37 (Eighth Sunday of Luke)

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

NOVEMBER 6, 2022 – TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY AFTER 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.

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

TODAY, NOVEMBER 6 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. John L. Boojamra, Leila Dahdouh, Stanley Fadel, Victoria Khouri, Dorothy Madey, George Massabni, Nicholas Sahadi, Charles Salloum, Alexander Zahka, and Gregory Zarr. Memory eternal!

Michele Ateyeh offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Victoria Khouri. Memory eternal!

The Alumni of the Antiochian Village Camp offer Prayers of Oblation and a 21-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Rt. Rev. Archimandrite John Namie, the first director of the camp. A Coffee Hour will follow the Divine Liturgy in his memory. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Claire Banat, Edward Richard Eadeh, Alice Elkas, Charlene Alekel Goldrick, George R. Haddad, Rashida Marie Haddad, Aziz Malika, Gabriella R. Sadaka, and Moufid Taweel. Memory eternal!

HOLY BREAD – Marie Zarr and Gale Zarr will offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of November in loving memory of their dearly departed family members George Zarr, Rose Zarr, Gregory Zarr, Gail Hall Zarr, Dolores Marinacci and Nazeer Almumen. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for November and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Claudette Teen (Hamilton Park), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Alex Araman, Joanne DeFede, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Nicole Khouzami, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Victoria Sleyman, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), Nancy Zarouni, and Rose Zrake (at home).

INTERNATIONAL DINNER – Teen SOYO has postponed its renowned International Dinner to benefit the Fr. Paul Schneirla Memorial Scholarship Fund until the Spring. Donations to the fund are still welcome. Please see Teen President Luke Spolar or Advisor Daria Mayrose for more information.

OUR TIME – Our “senior” fellowship, “Our Time”, will meet on Wednesday, November 9, from 1-3 PM. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

BIBLE STUDY – There will be no Bible Study this week. We will resume our Fall Bible Study of the book of Genesis on Thursday, November 17, at 7:00 PM.

PET BLESSING – Teen SOYO will once again sponsor a Pet Blessing Day on Saturday, November 12 at 2:00 PM on the Ridge Boulevard side of the church. Please see the flyer in this bulletin, or contact Angela Athineos, Luke Spolar, or Anna Athineos for more information.

FALL HARVEST LUNCHEON – The Church School PTO invites everyone to share Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday, November 13, following the Divine Liturgy. The PTO graciously accepts donations of assembled raffle baskets or basket items. To donate, please see Lorraine Deeb or Lara Rostom Laham. They also need volunteers to prepare meal items including turkeys or donations toward the cost of the food.

IOCC SUNDAY – Our November pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for “International Orthodox Christian Charities” dated November 20. We annually receive this collection on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Our faithful can either drop their envelope in the collection tray on Sundays or return it to the church office. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes, please inform the church office so that we can add you to our list of supporters. Thank you for your support of IOCC.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE - The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique on Saturday, December 3 (9:30am - 4pm), and Sunday, December 4th (12:30pm - 3:00pm). We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year we are accepting only donations of costume and better jewelry. If you can donate jewelry, please contact Marianne Hindelly at (917) 309-5302 by Monday, November 28. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 4, to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771–2427, if you are available or have any questions.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, November 9 “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Thursday, November 10 No Bible Study

Saturday, November 12 Pet Blessing, 2:00 PM

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, November 13 Fall Harvest Luncheon

Monday, November 14 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Tuesday, November 15 Advent Begins

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “The first divine decree about man is that he should be in living union with God, and this union consists of living in God with the mind in the heart: thus anyone who aims at such a life, and still more anyone who participates in it to some extent, can be said to fulfil the purpose in life for which he was created. Those who seek this living union should understand what they are trying to do, and not be troubled at their lack of achievement in any specially important external feats. This work by itself embraces all other action.”

- St. Theophan the Recluse

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, October 30, 2022 - Twentieth 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

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

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

Sunday, October 30, 2022

Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 3 and Eothinon 9

The Holy Martyrs Zenobius and Zenobia

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 3

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

Apolytikion of Saints Zenobius and Zenobia – Tone 4

Thy Martyrs, O Lord, in their courageous contest for Thee received as the prize the crowns of incorruption and life from Thee, our immortal God. For, since they possessed Thy strength, they cast down the tyrants and wholly destroyed the demons’ strengthless presumption. O Christ God, by their prayers, save our souls, since Thou art merciful.

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 – Galatians 1:11-19 (Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

Verse. Clap your hands, all you nations.

BRETHREN, I would have you know that the gospel which was preached by me is not man’s gospel. For I did not receive it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it; and I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and had called me through his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia; and again I returned to Damascus.

Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas, and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother.

Gospel – Luke 16:19-31 (Fifth Sunday of Luke)

THE LORD SAID, “There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table; moreover, the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried; and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes, and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus in his bosom. And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy upon me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in anguish in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.’ And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.’ But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if some one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if some one should rise from the dead.’”

Next week’s homework: Galatians 2:16-20 (21st Sunday after Pentecost)

Luke 8:41-56 (Seventh Sunday of Luke)

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

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

OCTOBER 30, 2022 – TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER 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.

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.

OCTOBER IS YOUTH MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

TODAY, OCTOBER 30 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nicholas L. Assatly, Henry Hadad, Jr., Assad Hanna, Olga and Salem Jabara, Delores and Paul Jabara, Evelyn Mouracade, Josephine Tadross, and Mary and Richard Zraick. Memory eternal!

The Dalack and Ellias Families offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Basil Dalack, Esq. Memory eternal!

Lara and Marwan Alllaham offer Prayers of Oblation and a 6-month memorial for the repose of the soul of Marwan’s sister, the handmaiden of God Laila Allaham of California. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. John L. Boojamra, Leila Dahdouh, Stanley Fadel, Victoria Khouri, Dorothy Madey, George Massabni, Nicholas Sahadi, Charles Salloum, Alexander Zahka, and Gregory Zarr. Memory eternal!

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

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massb (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Joanne DeFede, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Nicole Khouzami, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Victoria Sleyman, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), Nancy Zarouni, and Rose Zrake (at home).

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR OCTOBER – We will observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their by-products) on all Wednesdays and Fridays in October.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s will have an important meeting today following the Divine Liturgy. All ladies welcome and wanted!

BIBLE STUDY – We will continue our Bible Study of the book of Genesis on Thursday, November 3, at 7:00 PM. Bring your Orthodox Study Bible, or see Lorraine Deeb to get one from the bookstore.

VIGIL OF ST. RAPHAEL – St. Nicholas Cathedral will hold a vigil for the Feast of St. Raphael of Brooklyn on Friday, November 4. Great Vespers will begin at 6:30 PM, followed by Matins and the Divine Liturgy. Worshippers may begin their Eucharistic fast after an early and light lunch.

INTERNATIONAL DINNER – Teen SOYO announces the return of its renowned International Dinner to benefit the Fr. Paul Schneirla Memorial Scholarship Fund on Saturday, November 5, following Great Vespers. Please see Teen President Luke Spolar, Advisors Daria Mayrose and Angela Athineos or the flyer in this bulletin for more information.

PET BLESSING – Teen SOYO will once again sponsor a Pet Blessing Day on Saturday, November 12 at 2:00 PM on the Ridge Boulevard side of the church. Please see the flyer in this bulletin, or contact Angela Athineos, Luke Spolar, or Anna Athineos for more information.

FALL HARVEST LUNCHEON – The Church School PTO invites everyone to share a Fall Harvest Luncheon on Sunday, November 13, following the Divine Liturgy. The PTO graciously accepts donations of assembled raffle baskets or basket items. To donate, please see Lorraine Deeb or Lara Rostom Laham. They also need volunteers to prepare meal items including turkeys or donations toward the cost of the food.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE - The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique on Saturday, December 3 (9:30am - 4pm), and Sunday, December 4th (12:30pm - 3:00pm). We hope that our very talented bakers will donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year we are accepting only donations of costume and better jewelry. If you can donate jewelry, please contact Marianne Hindelly at (917) 309-5302 by Monday, November 28. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday, December 4, to assist packing up after the Boutique. Contact Gale Zarr (917) 771–2427, if you are available or have questions.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS – Remember to set your clocks back one hour next Saturday night.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, November 3 Bible Study, 7:00 PM

Friday, November 4 Vigil of St. Raphael of Brooklyn @ St. Nicholas, 6:30 PM

Saturday, November 5 Great Vespers, 5:00

Teen SOYO International Dinner

Sunday, November 6 Daylight Savings Time Ends

Saturday, November 12 Pet Blessing, 2:00 PM

Sunday, November 13 Fall Harvest Luncheon

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Let us know the great goodness of God for those who sincerely take refuge in Him and who correct their past faults by repentance.”

- St. Paul the Simple

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, October 23, 2022 - The Holy Apostle James, the "Brother of God"

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, October 23, 2022

The Holy Apostle James, the “Brother of God”

Tone 2 and Eothinon 8

Ignatius, Patriarch of Constantinople

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 2

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

Apolytikion of the Apostle James – Tone 4

Since thou art a Disciple of the Lord, thou didst receive the Gospel, O righteous one, and since thou art a Martyr thou art never rejected, and since thou art a brother of God, thou art privileged, and since thou art a High Priest, it is thine to intercede. Wherefore, beseech thou Christ God to save our souls.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the 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 – Galatians 1:11-19 (Apostle James)

Prokeimenon. His voice has gone to the end of the earth.

Verse. The heavens declare the glory of God.

BRETHREN, I would have you know that the gospel which was preached by me is not man’s gospel. For I did not receive it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ. For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it; and I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and had called me through his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia; and again I returned to Damascus.

Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas, and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother.

Gospel – Luke 8:26-39 (Sixth Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus arrived at the country of the Gad’arenes, which is opposite Galilee. And as he stepped out on land, there met him a man from the city who had demons; for a long time, he had worn no clothes, and he lived not in a house but among the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him, and said with a loud voice, “What have I to do with you, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beseech you, do not torment me.” For Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. [For many a time it had seized him; he was kept under guard, and bound with chains and fetters, but he broke the bonds and was driven by the demon into the wilderness.] Jesus then asked him “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion”; for many demons had entered him. And they begged Jesus not to command them to depart into the abyss.

Now a large herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside; and they begged Jesus to let them enter these. So he gave them leave. Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned.

When the herdsmen saw what had happened, they fled, and told it in the city and in the country. Then people went out to see what had happened, and they came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had gone, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. And those who had seen it told them how he who had been possessed with demons was healed. Then all of the people of the surrounding country of the Gad’arenes asked Jesus to depart from them; for they were seized with great fear; so he got into a boat and returned. The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with Jesus; but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return to your home, and declare all that God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming through the whole city all that Jesus had done for him.

Next week’s homework: Galatians 1:11-19 (Apostle James, Brother of God)

Luke 8:26-39 (Sixth Sunday of Luke)

OCTOBER 23, 2022 – THE HOLY APOSTLE JAMES, THE “BROTHER OF GOD”

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.

OCTOBER IS YOUTH MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

TODAY, OCTOBER 23 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Matilda Couri Boutross, Aleer Couri, Elena Paris, Najla Sahadi, Susan Texeira, and Lorraine Zraick. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nicholas L. Assatly, Henry Hadad, Jr., Assad Hanna, Olga and Salem Jabara, Delores and Paul Jabara, Evelyn Mouracade, Josephine Tadross, and Mary and Richard Tadross. Memory eternal!

The Dalack and Ellias Families will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Basil Dalack, Esq. Memory eternal!

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

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massb (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Joanne DeFede, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Nicole Khouzami, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Victoria Sleyman, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), Nancy Zarouni, and Rose Zrake (at home).

OUR TIME – Our “senior” fellowship, “Our Time”, will meet on Wednesday, October 26, from 1-3 PM. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

BIBLE STUDY – We will resume our Fall Bible Study of the book of Genesis on Thursday, October 27, at 7:00 PM. Please bring your Orthodox Study Bible, or see Lorraine Deeb to get one from the bookstore. All are welcome!

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s will have an important meeting on Sunday, October 30, following the Divine Liturgy. All ladies welcome and wanted!

BAY RIDGE EATS FOR A CAUSE - Our Fifth Bay Ridge Eats for a Cause occurred on Saturday, October 15. Food, drink and music filled the church hall as over 200 guests attended the popular restaurant tasting. Guests enjoyed music by Cliff Massab and ‘The Bitter End’ Band. We raised over $2,500 for our Church. Our participating restaurants were: Catrina's Mexican Grill, Chadwick's, Charlie's Sandwich Shop, Elia Restaurant, Gino's, Greenhouse Cafe, Leo's, Paneantico, Salty Dog, Sapporo Japanese Cuisine, and Tanoreen. Please patronize these restaurants and thank them for generously for donating their tastings for our Church Fundraiser.

Our BREFAC Chairs - Denise Alexander, Nicole Khouzami and Renee Geston Landry thank all of our volunteers including: Rima Alsaifi Hazem, Christos Hazem, Jack Hazem, John Alexander, Angela Athineos, Chris Athineos, Timothy Coan, Samantha Coan, Robert Rich, Amanda Rich, Laila Ellias, Diana Kaiami, Marianne Hindelly, Aline Farkouh, Gary Gangone, Thomas Mayrose, Daria Mayrose, Connor Mayrose, Amanda Regnier, Michael Regnier, Alice Regnier, Isaac Regnier, Susanna Regnier, Nicole Massab, Andrea Zrake, Anthony Zrake and George Khouzami.

INTERNATIONAL DINNER – Teen SOYO announces the return of its renowned International Dinner to benefit the Fr. Paul Schneirla Memorial Scholarship Fund on Saturday, November 5, following Great Vespers. Please see Teen President Luke Spolar, Advisors Daria Mayrose and Angela Athineos or the flyer in this bulletin for more information.

FALL HARVEST LUNCHEON – The Church School PTO invites everyone to share Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday, November 13, following the Divine Liturgy. The PTO graciously accepts donations of assembled raffle baskets or basket items. To donate, please see Lorraine Deeb or Lara Rostom Laham. They also need volunteers to prepare meal items including turkeys or donations toward the cost of the food.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, October 23 Albishara Baptism, 2:00 PM

Wednesday, October 26 “Our Time” Fellowship, 1:00-3:00 PM

Thursday, October 27 Bible Study, 7:00 PM

Saturday, October 29 Mansukhani Baptism, 11:30 AM

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, October 30 Ladies of St. Mary’s Meeting

Dalack Baptism, 1:00 PM

Saturday, November 5 Teen SOYO International Dinner

Sunday, November 6 Daylight Saving Time Ends

Sunday, November 13 Church School PTO Fall Harvest Luncheon

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “We give thanks to You, O God, we give thanks! For Your wondrous works declare that Your name is near.”

- Psalm 75:1

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, October 16, 2022 - Sunday of the Fathers of the Seventh Ecumenical Council

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, October 16, 2022

Sunday of the Holy Fathers of the Seventh Ecumenical Council

Tone 1 and Eothinon 7

Martyr Longinos the Centurion Who Stood at the Cross of the Lord

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 1

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

Apolytikion of the Holy 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 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 – Titus 3:8-15 (Holy Fathers)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 31.11, 1. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, O righteous.

Verse. Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven.

TITUS, my son, the saying is sure. I desire you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to apply themselves to good deeds; these are excellent and profitable to men. But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels over the law, for they are unprofitable and futile. As for a man who is factious, after admonishing him once or twice, knowing that such a person is perverted and sinful; he is self-condemned.

When I send Artemas or Tychicos to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing. And let our people learn to apply themselves to good deeds, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not to be unfruitful.

All who are with me send greetings to you. Greet those who love us in the faith.

Grace be with you all. Amen.

Gospel – Luke 8:5-15 (Fourth Sunday of Luke)

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE: “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew, and yielded a hundredfold.”

And when his disciples asked him what this parable meant, Jesus said, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God; but for others they are in parables, so that seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy; but these have no root, they believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. And as for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience.” As Jesus said this, he called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

Next week’s homework: Galatians 1:11-19 (Apostle James, Brother of God)

Luke 8:26-39 (Sixth Sunday of Luke)

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

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

OCTOBER 16, 2022 – SUNDAY OF THE FATHERS OF THE SEVENTH 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.

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.

OCTOBER IS YOUTH MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

TODAY, OCTOBER 16 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Arida, Selma Assatly, Mary and Sophie Fauty, Henry Hadad, Sr., George P. James, Marie Khoury, John Martin, Beder and Sadallah Sabbagh, and Temam Kotite Samra. Memory eternal!

Nataliya Latushkina offers Prayers of Oblation for the health of her son, the servant of God Michael. Many years!

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Matilda Couri Boutross, Aleer Couri, Elena Paris, Najla Sahadi, Susan Texeira, and Lorraine Zraick. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Joanne DeFede, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Nicole Khouzami, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Victoria Sleyman, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), Nancy Zarouni, and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR OCTOBER – We will observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their by-products) on all Wednesdays and Fridays in October.

GREAT VESPERS – There will be no Great Vespers this Saturday, October 22, because of the Teen Retreat at St. Vladimir’s Seminary.

YOUTH MONTH – October is Youth Month in the Antiochian Archdiocese. Among other things our teens will read the epistle, serve as ushers, and assist with the distribution of the Holy Eucharist. We invite all the teens to participate in the Teen Retreat at St. Vladimir’s Seminary on Saturday, October 22. Please see Daria Mayrose or Angela Athineos for more information.

OUR TIME – Our “senior” fellowship, “Our Time”, will meet on Wednesday, October 26, from 1-3 PM. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

BIBLE STUDY – There will be no Bible Study this Thursday because Fr. Michael will be in Baltimore for the meeting of the Board of Trustees of IOCC. We will resume our Fall Bible Study of the book of Genesis on Thursday, October 27, at 7:00 PM. Please bring your Orthodox Study Bible, or see Lorraine Deeb to get one from the bookstore.

FAMILY NIGHT - We are restarting "Family Night" on Friday, October 21. Please join us for a fun evening of games and fellowship. Feel free to bring your own games, food or drinks. Spread the word that we are back from the summer break!

TEEN RETREAT – Our Teen SOYO will host a retreat on behalf of the Dioceses of New York and Washington and Charleston and the Mid-Atlantic at St. Vladimir’s Seminary in Yonkers, NY, on Saturday, October 22. Parents are also welcome. Please see the flyer in this bulletin and on the bulletin board, or speak with Daria Mayrose for more information.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE - The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique on Saturday, December 3 (9:30am - 4pm), and Sunday, December 4th (12:30pm - 3:00pm). We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year we are accepting only donations of costume and better jewelry. If you can donate jewelry, please contact Marianne Hindelly at (917) 309-5302 by Monday, November 28. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 4, to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771–2427, if you are available or have any questions.

ESTATE PLANNING – May we all say, “As an expression of gratitude for all that God has done for me, and as an expression to my descendants of how much the church means to me, I have made provision in my estate plan for a bequest to my beloved St. Mary’s Church.”

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, October 22 Teen Retreat @ St. Vladimir’s Seminary

Sunday, October 23 Albishara Baptism, 2:00 PM

Wednesday, October 26 “Our Time” Fellowship, 1:00-3:00 PM

Thursday, October 27 Bible Study, 7:00 PM

Saturday, October 29 Mansukhani Baptism, 11:30 AM

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, October 30 Dalack Baptism, 1:00 PM

Friday, November 4 Vigil for St. Raphael of Brooklyn @ St. Nicholas

Saturday, November 5 Teen SOYO International Dinner

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord .”

- I Corinthians 15:58

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, October 9, 2022 - Seventeenth 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, October 9, 2022

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 8 and Eothinon 6

Holy Apostle James, Son of Alphaeus

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 Holy Apostle James, Son of Alphaeus – Tone 3

O holy apostle James, intercede with the merciful God to grant to our souls forgiveness of sins.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

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

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

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

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

Gospel – Luke 7:11-16 (Third Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus went to a city called Na’in, and many of his disciples and a great crowd went with him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a large crowd from the city was with her. And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” And he came and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And Jesus said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” And the dead man sat up, and began to speak. And Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all; and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and “God has visited his people!”

Next week’s homework: Titus 3:8-15 (Fathers of the 7th Ecumenical Council)

Luke 8:5-15 (Fourth Sunday of Luke)

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

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

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR OCTOBER – We will observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their by-products) on all Wednesdays and Fridays in October.

GREAT VESPERS – There will be no Great Vespers this Saturday, October 15, as Fr. Michael will be in Grand Rapids, MI, for the meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Antiochian Archdiocese.

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will hold its regular monthly meeting tomorrow, October 10, at 7:30 PM.

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

OCTOBER 9, 2022 – SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER 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.

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.

OCTOBER IS YOUTH MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

TODAY, OCTOBER 9 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Doris Farkouh Creidy, Zahaya Dahab, Janet M. Gehshan, John G. Golam, Margaret Mackoul, Helen Orfaly, Rose Rowady, George A. and Virginia M. Sahadi, and Michael Zarouni. Memory eternal!

Diane Zamaria offers the Holy Bread and Prayers of Oblation for the health of the servants of God Renee, Samir, Memphis, Nathaniel, Billy, Justin, Wayne and all the extended Nassoor and Borgi families. Many years!

Robert Mackoul offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his mother, the handmaiden of God Margaret Mackoul. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

Louise Sahadi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her parents, the servants of God Virginia M. and George A. Sahadi. Memory eternal!

Andrea Cressey, Cathy Lutfy, and Roberta Cox offer Prayers of Oblation and a 25-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of their mother, the handmaiden of God Bernice Wardi Lutfy. Memory eternal

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Arida, Selma Assatly, Mary and Sophie Fauty, Henry Hadad, Sr., George P. James, Marie Khoury, John Martin, Beder and Sadallah Sabbagh, and Temam Kotite Samra. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massb (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Joanne DeFede, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Mary Ganim, Nicole Khouzami, Robert Mackoul, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Victoria Sleyman, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), Nancy Zarouni, and Rose Zrake (at home).

OUR TIME – Our “senior” fellowship, “Our Time”, will meet on Wednesday, October 12 from 1-3 PM. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

YOUTH MONTH – October is Youth Month in the Antiochian Archdiocese. Among other things our teens will read the epistle, serve as ushers, and assist with the distribution of the Holy Eucharist. We invite all the teens to participate in the Teen Retreat at St. Vladimir’s Seminary on Saturday, October 22. Please see Daria Mayrose or Angela Athineos for more information.

FALL HAFLI – We congratulate Rima Alsaifi Hazem and her committee of Roula Alsaifi, Razan Maloof, Terez Khoury, Josephine Zgheib, and Leen Zgheib, for organizing our Fall Hafli. The food was abundant, the music was excellent and the fellowship was wonderful; moreover, Rima reports proceeds of at least $10,000. We eagerly look forward to the next one!

BIBLE STUDY – We will continue our Fall Bible Study of the book of Genesis this Thursday, October 13, at 7:00 PM. Bring your Orthodox Study Bible, or see Lorraine Deeb to get one from the bookstore.

BAY RIDGE EATS FOR A CAUSE – Denise Alexander and her committee are putting together the return of Bay Ridge Eats for a Cause following our pandemic interruption. Please see Denise for ticket information for this fabulous event on Saturday, October 15.

TEEN RETREAT – Our Teen SOYO will host a retreat on behalf of the Dioceses of New York and Washington at St. Vladimir’s Seminary in Yonkers, NY, on Saturday, October 22. Parents are also welcome. Please see the flyer in this bulletin and on the bulletin board, or speak with Daria Mayrose for more information.

THEOLOGICAL OFFERING – Our October pledge envelopes included a green envelope marked “Theological Offering.” This account is one of the three mandatory “trays” we collect each year for the Antiochian Archdiocese and supports our seminaries in North America. Our minimum contribution as a parish is $500. Our faithful can either drop their envelope in the collection tray on Sundays or return it to the church office. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes, please inform the church office so that we can add you to our list of supporters. Thank you for your generous support of our seminaries.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, October 10 Parish Council, 7:30 PM

Wednesday, October 12 “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Thursday, October 13 Bible Study, 7:00 PM

Saturday, October 15 No Great Vespers

Bay Ridge Eats for a Cause

Saturday, October 22 Teen Retreat @ St. Vladimir’s Seminary

Sunday, October 23 Albishara Baptism, 2:00 PM

Saturday, October 29 Mansukhani Baptism, 11:30 AM

Sunday, October 30 Dalack Baptism, 1:00 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

- I Thessalonians 5:16-18

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, October 2, 2022 - Sixteenth 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, October 2, 2022

Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 7 and Eothinon 5

Hieromartyr Cyprian the Confessor

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 7

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

Apolytikion of St. Cyprian the Confessor – Tone 4

By choosing the Apostles’ way of life, thou hast succeeded to their throne. Inspired by God, thou didst find the way to divine contemplation through the practice of virtue. After teaching the Word of Truth without error, thou didst defend the Faith to the very shedding of thy blood, O Hieromartyr Cyprian. Entreat the Lord our God to save our souls.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – II Corinthians 6:1-10 (Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

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

Gospel – Luke 6:31-36 (Second Sunday of Luke)

THE LORD SAID, “As you wish that men would do to you, do so to them. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the selfish. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.”

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

Luke 7:11-16 (Third Sunday of Luke)

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

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

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR OCTOBER – We will observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their by-products) on all Wednesdays and Fridays in October.

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

OCTOBER 2, 2022 – SIXTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER 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.

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.

OCTOBER IS YOUTH MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

TODAY, OCTOBER 2 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dorothy Howie, Gary Kassatly, Bernice Wardi Lutfy, Edmund Shawah, Edith and Mitchell A. Tadross, Samia, Fareed, George, Hazel Khoury and Angel Folsey, Herbert Trabulsi, Fred Zahka, Antoun Zgheib, and Philip and Edna Zrike. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Doris Farkouh Creidy, Zahaya Dahab, Janet M. Gehshan, John G. Golam, Margaret Mackoul, Helen Orfaly, Rose Rowady, George A. and Virginia M. Sahadi, and Michael Zarouni. Memory eternal!

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

YOUTH MONTH – October is Youth Month in the Antiochian Archdiocese. Among other things our teens will read the epistle, serve as ushers, and assist with the distribution of the Holy Eucharist. We invite all the teens to participate in the Teen Retreat at St. Vladimir’s Seminary on Saturday, October 22. Please see Daria Mayrose or Angela Athineos for more information.

PTO SIDEWALK SALE – Please see the flyer in this week’s bulletin about this Saturday’s PTO Sidewalk Sale. All proceeds will benefit the Church School.

BIBLE STUDY – We will continue our Fall Bible Study of the book of Genesis this Thursday, October 6, at 7:00 PM. Please bring your Orthodox Study Bible, or see Lorraine Deeb to get one from the bookstore.

GREAT VESPERS – There will be no Great Vespers on Saturday, October 8, due to the Allen Memorial Lecture at St. Anthony Church in Bergenfield, NJ.

ORTHODOX CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP – Our September offering envelopes included a blue envelope for Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF), the campus ministry of the Assembly of Bishops. We will receive this offering today. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes in the mail, please speak to Fr. Michael, Treasurer Diana Kaiami, or Parish Council Chair Aline Farkouh.

OUR TIME – Our “senior” fellowship, “Our Time”, will meet on Wednesday, October 12 from 1-3 PM. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

BAY RIDGE EATS FOR A CAUSE – Denise Alexander and her committee are putting together the return of Bay Ridge Eats for a Cause following our pandemic interruption. Please see Denise for ticket information for this fabulous event on Saturday, October 15.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – As results continue to come in, we can now say that proceeds will exceed $82,000 this year. Thanks be to God, and many thanks to our dedicated and hard working committee!

TEEN RETREAT – Our Teen SOYO will host a retreat on behalf of the Dioceses of New York and Washington at St. Vladimir’s Seminary in Yonkers, NY, on Saturday, October 22. Parents are also welcome. Please see the flyer in this bulletin and on the bulletin board, or speak with Daria Mayrose for more information.

TEMPORARY OPERATING COMMITTEE – We have published the letter from His Beatitude Patriarch JOHN X appointing a temporary operating committee for the Antiochian Archdiocese of North America in response to the retirement announcement of His Eminence Metropolitan JOSEPH. Please see that letter in Arabic and English in this bulletin, and please see the letter of His Grace Bishop John as the chairman of that committee.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, October 6 Bible Study, 7:00 PM

Saturday, October 8 Church School Sidewalk Sale

No Great Vespers

Allen Memorial Lecture, St. Anthony Church, Bergenfield

Sunday, October 9 Mackoul-Falcone Wedding, 1:30 PM

Monday, October 10 Parish Council, 7:30 PM

Wednesday, October 12 “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Saturday, October 15 Bay Ridge Eats for a Cause

Saturday, October 22 Teen Retreat @ St. Vladimir’s Seminary

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “In all things that you find in the Holy Scriptures, seek out the purpose of the words, that you may enter into the depth of the thoughts of the saints and understand them with greater exactness. Do not approach the reading of the Divine Scriptures without prayer and asking the help of God. Consider prayer to be the key to the true uderstanding of that which is said in the Holy Scriptures.”

- St. Isaac the Syrian

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, September 25, 2022 - Fifteenth 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, September 25, 2022

Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 5 and Eothinon 3

Our Righteous Mother Euphrosyne

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 6

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

Apolytikion of St. Euphrosyne – Tone 8

Through thee, the divine likeness was securely preserved, O mother Euphrosyne; for thou didst carry the cross and follow Christ. By example and precept thou didst teach us to ignore the body, because it is perishable, and to attend to the concerns of the undying soul. Therefore, doth thy soul rejoice with the angels.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – II Corinthians 4:6-15 (Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

BRETHREN, it is the God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, to show that the transcendent power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. For while we live we are always being given up to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you.

Since we have the same spirit of faith as he had who wrote, “I believed, and so I spoke,” we too believed, and so we speak, knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence. For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.

Gospel – Luke 5:1-11 (First Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus was standing by the lake of Gennesaret. And he saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, Jesus asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when Jesus had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking, they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men.” And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.

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

Luke 6:31-36 (Second Sunday of Luke)

HOLY BREAD – Wanda Salloum and Roland Salloum offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of September in loving memory of their brothers Oscar and Charles, sister Giselle, nephew Badih, and niece Magda. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for September and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

SEPTEMBER 25, 2022 – FIFTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER 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.

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, SEPTEMBER 25 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lorraine Assatly, Victoria F. Dib, Ghassan Fattouh, Avjon Golam and Dimitry Golam, Werda Hadad, George Haddad, Emileen Hanna, Stephen Paul James, Eleanor Kalesh, Alexander Khoury, George K. Moore, Addie, Mary Alice, Alfred and Edmund Nahas and Adrienne Poulakakos, Edward, Ronald, Valerie and Victoria Tadross, Very Rev. Fr. W.P.S. Schneirla, Shirley Schneirla, William Sutfin Schneirla, Jr., and Donald O. Page. Memory eternal!

Karen and Tony Tadross offer Prayers of Oblation for the health and wellbeing of the handmaiden of God Ann Legnetti. Many years!

Carol and David Furer offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Victoria F. Dib. Memory eternal!

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

The Family of the servant of God Gabriel Golam will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of his soul as well as for the servants of God John Golam, and Avjon and Dimitry Golam. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dorothy Howie, Gary Kassatly, Bernice Wardi Lutfy, Edmund Shawah, Edith and Mitchell A. Tadross, Samia, Fareed, George, Hazel Khoury and Angel Folsey, Herbert Trabulsi, Fred Zahka, Antoun Zgheib, and Philip and Edna Zrike. Memory eternal!

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

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR SEPTEMBER – We will observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their by-products) on all Wednesdays and Fridays in September.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s will hold an important Welcome Back meeting today in the church following the Divine Liturgy. All ladies welcome and encouraged to participate!

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

OUR TIME – Our “senior” fellowship, “Our Time”, will meet this Wednesday, September 28 from 1-3 PM. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

BIBLE STUDY – We will continue our Fall Bible Study of the book of Genesis this Thursday, September 29, at 7:00 PM. Please bring your Orthodox Study Bible, or see Lorraine Deeb to get one from the bookstore.

FALL HAFLI – September 30 is this Friday! Please see Rima Alsifi Hazem for more information and last minute reservations.

ORTHODOX CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP – Our September offering envelopes included a blue envelope for Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF), the campus ministry of the Assembly of Bishops. We will receive that offering on Sunday, October 2. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes in the mail, please speak to Fr. Michael, Treasurer Diana Kaiami, or Parish Council Chair Aline Farkouh.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – Thanks be to God, the 13th Annual Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing was very successful. We extend our congratulations to Co-Chairs Daria Mayrose and Bob Mackoul and through them to all the committee chairs and volunteers. We also thank our major sponsors, the Mackoul Family, the Sabbagh Family, and the Sahadi Family and all of their attendance businesses. We look forward to next year’s outing!

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, September 28 “Our Time” Fellowship, 1:00-3:00 PM

Thursday, September 29 Bible Study, 7:00 PM

Friday, September 30 Fall Hafli

Saturday, October 1 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Thursday, October 6 Bible Study, 7:00 PM

Saturday, October 8 Church School Sidewalk Sale

Monday, October 10 Parish Council, 7:30 PM

Saturday, October 15 Bay Ridge Eats for a Cause

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “God and the devil are found at opposite poles. No one can turn his face to God who has not first turned his back on sin. When a man turns his face to God, all of his paths lead to God. When a man turns his face away from God, all of his paths lead to perdition. When a man finally rejects God by word and in his heart, he is no longer fit to do anything that does not serve for his complete destruction, both of his soul and of his body.”

- St. Nikolai Velimirovich

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

September 18, 2022 - Sunday after the Elevation of The Holy Cross

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, September 18, 2022

Sunday after the Elevation of the Holy Cross

Tone 5 and Eothinon 3

Eumenios the Wonderworker, Bishop of Gortyna

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 5

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

Apolytikion of the Holy Cross – Tone 1

O Lord, save thy people and bless thine inheritance, granting our believing kings victory over the Barbarians, and by the power of thy Cross preserving thy commonwealth.

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 Holy Cross – Tone 4

Do thou, who of thine own good will wast elevated upon the Cross, bestow thy bounties upon the new people, which is called by thy Name, O Christ our God; make glad with thy might our believing kings, granting them victory over their adversaries. May thine aid be a panoply of peace, a trophy invincible.

Epistle – Galatians 2:16-20 (The Sunday after the Elevation of the Precious Cross)

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.

BRETHREN, you know that a man is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ, and not by works of the law, because by works of the law shall no one be justified. But if, in our endeavor to be justified in Christ, we ourselves were found to be sinners, is Christ then an agent of sin? Certainly not! But if I build up again those things which I tore down, then I prove myself a transgressor. For I through the law died to the law, that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Gospel – Mark 8:34-9:1 (The Sunday after the Elevation of the Precious Cross)

THE LORD SAID, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Kingdom of God come with power.”

Next week’s homework: II Corinthians 4:6-15 (Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Luke 5:1-11 (First Sunday of Luke)

HOLY BREAD – Wanda Salloum and Roland Salloum offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of September in loving memory of their brothers Oscar and Charles, sister Giselle, nephew Badih, and niece Magda. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for September and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR SEPTEMBER – We will observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their by-products) on all Wednesdays and Fridays in September. On Wednesday, September 14, we will celebrate the Great Feast of the Elevation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross. Although this day is a great feast, it is also a fast day with the traditional fasting discipline.

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

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

SEPTEMBER 18, 2022 –SUNDAY AFTER THE ELEVATION OF THE HOLY CROSS

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, SEPTEMBER 18 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Elizabeth Ganim Cohen, George Fauty, Victor Hamaty, Katherine and Wilfred Jabara, Alexander Orfaly, Wajieha Sabbagh, and Edward M. Traboulsi. Memory eternal!

Drs. Amal and Gregory Dalack offer Prayers of Oblation for the good health of the newborn Nora Marie Dalack. Many years!

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Ward Pavel Ryan. Memory eternal!

The extended Nassoor Family offers the Holy Bread of Oblation today in celebration of the 20th wedding anniversary of Renee and Wayne Landry, the last couple Fr. Paul married before his retirement. Many years!

The Family of Lily Lang offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

The Ladies of St. Mary’s offer prayers of oblation for the repose of the soul of their dear sister-in-Christ and past President Lily Lang. May her memory be eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lorraine Assatly, Victoria F. Dib, Ghassan Fattouh, Avjon Golam and Dimitry Golam, Werda Hadad, George Haddad, Emileen Hanna, Stephen Paul James, Eleanor Kalesh, Alexander Khoury, George K. Moore, Addie, Mary Alice, Alfred and Edmund Nahas and Adrienne Poulakakos, Edward, Ronald, Valerie and Victoria Tadross, Very Rev. Fr. W.P.S. Schneirla, Shirley Schneirla, William Sutfin Schneirla, Jr., and Donald O. Page. Memory eternal!

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

The Family of the servant of God Gabriel Golam will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of his soul. Memory eternal!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

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), Robert Forcina (Sloan), Nicholas Massb (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Charles Bryant, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

SUNDAY LUNCHEON – We acknowledge the brilliant work our gifted cooks did to make last Sunday’s Luncheon a huge success: Sonia Abounaoum, Rima Alsifi, Nahla Bittar Fattouh, Majdeline Boutros Elkhoury, Aline Farkouh, Hilani Hana, Hend Kaba, Siham Kaba, Terez Khoury, Nahla Laham, Hanade Maalouf, Rayzan Maalouf, Chaza Rafiaa, Irene Tashji, Lina Zaher, Maha Zaher, Josephine Zgheib, and Leen Zgheib. God bless your very talented hands!

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing will be tomorrow, Monday, September 19, at the Hempstead Golf and Country Club. This year we will honor Dr. Alice Farkhouh with our Lifetime Achievement Award, and we will remember Dina and George Moore with the Victor J. Samra, Jr. Memorial Award. Let us pray for seasonable weather!

SALAM CLUB – The Salam Club invites the men of the parish to a meeting and dinner here at St. Mary’s on Wednesday, September 21, at 7 PM. See the invitation in this bulletin for more information.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s will postpone their Welcome Back meeting until next Sunday, September 25, following the Divine Liturgy. All ladies of the parish are welcome!

BIBLE STUDY – We will begin our Fall Bible Study of the book of Genesis this Thursday, September 22, at 7:00 PM. Please bring your Orthodox Study Bible, or see Lorraine Deeb to get one from the bookstore.

ORTHODOX CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP – Our September offering envelopes included a blue envelope for Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF), the campus ministry of the Assembly of Bishops. We will receive that offering on Sunday, October 2. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes in the mail, please speak to Fr. Michael, Treasurer Diana Kaiami, or Parish Council Chair Aline Farkouh.

FALL HAFLI – September 30 is approaching! Please see Rima Alsifi Hazem for more information.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, September 19 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

Wednesday, September 21 Salam Club Dinner @ St. Mary’s Church, 7 PM

Thursday, September 22 Bible Study, 7:00 PM

Saturday, September 24 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Wednesday, September 28 “Our Time” Fellowship, 1:00-3:00 PM

Friday, September 30 Fall Hafli

Saturday, October 8 Church School Sidewalk Sale

Saturday, October 15 Bay Ridge Eats for a Cause

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

Bulletin for Sunday, September 11, 2022 - Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross

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, September 11, 2022

Sunday before the Elevation of the Holy Cross

Tone 4 and Eothinon 2

After-Fest of the Nativity of the Theotokos

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 4

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

By thy holy nativity, O pure one, Joachim and Anne were delivered from the reproach of barrenness; and Adam and Eve were delivered from the corruption of death; thy people do celebrate it, having been saved from the stain of iniquity, crying unto thee, the barren doth give birth to the Theotokos, who nourisheth our life.

Epistle – Galatians 6:11-18 (Sunday before the Holy Cross)

Prokeimenon.  Psalm 27:9, 1.  O Lord, save your people and bless your inheritance.

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

            BRETHREN, see with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand.  It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that would compel you to be circumcised, and not only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ.  For even those who receive circumcision do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may glory in your flesh.  But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.  For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.  Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule, upon the Israel of God.

            Henceforth let no man trouble me; for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

            The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren.  Amen.

Gospel – John 3:13-17 (Sunday before the Elevation of the Precious Cross)

            THE LORD SAID, “No one has ascended into heaven but he who descended from heaven, the Son of man.  And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

            For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.  For God sent his Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.

Next week’s homework:           Galatians 2:16-20 (Sunday after the Elevation of the Holy Cross)

                                                Mark 8:34-9:1 (Sunday after the Elevation of the Holy Cross)

HOLY BREAD – Wanda Salloum and Roland Salloum offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of September in loving memory of their mother Wadih, brothers Oscar and Charles, sister Giselle, nephews Badih and Christian, and niece Magda.  Memory eternal!   Marianne Hindelly also offers the Holy Bread for the first two weeks of September.  Many years!  Additional donors are welcome for September and succeeding months.  We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR SEPTEMBER – We will observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their by-products) on all Wednesdays and Fridays in September.  On Wednesday, September 14, we will celebrate the Great Feast of the Elevation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross.  Although this day is a great feast, it is also a fast day with the traditional fasting discipline.

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.”

SEPTEMBER 11, 2022 –SUNDAY BEFORE THE ELEVATION OF THE HOLY CROSS

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, SEPTEMBER 11 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Gloria Dirbas, Olga Lewis, Louise M. Martin, and Nicholas Lian Massab.  Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Elizabeth Ganim Cohen, George Fauty, Victor Hamaty, Katherine and Wilfred Jabara, Alexander Orfaly, Wajieha Sabbagh, and Edward M. Traboulsi.  Memory eternal!

The Family of Lily Lang will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul.  A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy.  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), Robert Forcina (Sloan), Nicholas Massb (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Albert Absey, Yvonne Allawh, Claudette Budai, John Eyd, Diana Finger, Mary Ganim, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Renee Setteducato, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD), and Rose Zrake (at home).

CHURCH SCHOOL – Church School classes will resume today following Holy Communion and prior to the luncheon with a brief introductory session.  Please see Director Lorraine Deeb to register your students and for more information.

TEEN SOYO ­– The Teens will hold a brief meeting today to elect officers for the new year and to discuss some upcoming events.  All teens are encouraged to attend.  Please see Daria Mayrose or Angela Athineos for more information.

ENDOWMENT GIFT – We are blessed to announce that Dr. Caroline Grasso and Mr. Charles Voorhees have made a donation of $10,000 to the St. Mary’s Church Endowment Fund.  We will keep the Grasso, Voorhees, and Babick Families in our prayers.  May others follow their example.

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will hold its regular monthly meeting tomorrow, September 12, at 7:30 PM.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s will have an important Welcome Back meeting on Sunday, September 18, in the Church, following the Divine Liturgy.  All ladies welcome!

BACKPACK PROJECT – Representatives of District 20 picked up the backpacks last week and were overjoyed to receive them.  The Teens thank you for supporting their community outreach project!

FEAST OF THE EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS – Our sister parish of Holy Cross G.O. Church invites us to celebrate their patronal feast with Great Vespers on Tuesday, September 13 at 7 PM and Matins and the Divine Liturgy beginning at 8:15 AM on Wednesday, September 14.

OUR TIME – Our “senior” fellowship, Our Time, will resume meeting on Wednesday, September 14, 12:30 – 3:00 PM.  Please see the flyer in this bulletin or see Marily Tulaney for more information.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing will be on Monday, September 19, at the Hempstead Golf and Country Club.  This year we will honor Dr. Alice Farkhouh with our Lifetime Achievement Award, and we will remember Dina and George Moore with the Victor J. Samra, Jr. Memorial Award.   See Daria Mayrose for information.

SALAM CLUB – The Salam Club invites the men of the parish to a meeting and dinner here at St. Mary’s on Wednesday, September 21, at 7 PM.  See the invitation in this bulletin for more information. 

ORTHODOX CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP – Our September offering envelopes included a blue envelope for Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF), the campus ministry of the Assembly of Bishops.  We will receive that offering on Sunday, September 18.  If you are not receiving pledge envelopes in the mail, please speak to Fr. Michael, Treasurer Diana Kaiami, or Parish Council Chair Aline Farkouh.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

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

            Monday, September 12              Parish Council, 7:30 PM

            Tuesday, September 13             Great Vespers @ Holy Cross G.O. Church, 7 PM

            Wednesday, September 14        Matins & Divine Liturgy @ Holy Cross, 8:15 AM

“Our Time” 12:30 – 3:00 PM

            Saturday, September 17            Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

            Sunday, September 18              Ladies of St. Mary’s Meeting in the Church

            Monday, September 19              Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

            Wednesday, September 21        Salam Club Dinner @ St. Mary’s Church, 7 PM

            Friday, September 30                Fall Hafli

            Saturday, October 8                  Church School Sidewalk Sale

            Saturday, October 15                 Bay Ridge Eats for a Cause

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “It is a fearful thing to hate whom God has loved.  To look upon another – his weaknesses, his sins, his faults, his defects – is to look upon one who is suffering.  He is suffering from negaive passions, from the same sinful human corruption from which you yourself suffer.  This is very important:  do not look upon him with the judgmental eyes of comparison, noting the sins you assume you’d never commit.  Rather, see him as a fellow sufferer, a fellow human being who is in need of the very healing of which you are in need.  Help him, love him, pray for him, do unto him as you would have him do unto you.”

-       St. Tikohn of Zadonsk

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America