Bulletin for Sunday, June 11, 2023 - FIRST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST: ALL SAINTS SUNDAY

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, June 11, 2023

First Sunday after Pentecost: All Saints Sunday

Tone 8 and Eothinon 1

Holy, Glorious Apostles Barnabas and Bartholomew

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 8

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

Apolytikion of All Saints – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Saints – Tone 8

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

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

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

Verse. Bless God in the congregations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOLY BREAD – Donors are welcome for June 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.

JUNE 11, 2023 – FIRST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST: ALL SAINTS SUNDAY

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.

SUNDAY, JUNE 11 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Fouad Allawh, Edward Ateyeh, Jr., Shafica Debagie, Michael Haje, Kathleen Halloran, Eduardo Elias Khouzami, Joseph G. Mashamesh¸ Betty Massab, Nicholas Orfaly, Albert T. Sabah, and Marianne Trabulsi. Memory eternal!

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

The Family of Marianne Trabulsi offers Prayers of Oblation and a 2-Year Memorial for the repose of her soul. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 18 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George and Rose Samman, Albert G. Wardi and Olga Wardi, and Wadia Zain. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Rose Abdallah (NYU Lutheran), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD) and Rose Zrake (at home).

APOSTLES FAST – Each year the “Apostles Fast” or the “Fast of Saints Peter and Paul” extends from the Monday following All Saints Sunday (June 12 this year) until the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29). Let’s use this short fast to pray for missions and missionaries at home and abroad who are striving to carry out Jesus’ Great Commission.

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

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s will have their closing dinner of the season at Hunter’s Steakhouse, 9404 Fourth Avenue, on Thursday, June 15, at 6 PM. The cost is $55. Anyone who cannot afford the cost should see Fr. Michael in confidence. All ladies welcome! Please RSVP to Sandra Arida at (212) 535-1404 for reservations and more information.

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

CONTINUING EDUCTION – Our “summer semester” of adult and continuing education will begin this Wednesday, June 14, at 7:00 PM. We will use the book Orthodox Christianity, Vol. 5: Sacraments and Other Rites as our text. Please see Lorraine Deeb at the parish bookstore to order a copy. If you cannot afford the cost, please see Fr. Michael in confidence. Remote access is available via https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87409509323?pwd=RXIzOVJIa3ZqdGpHU1N4UFFhNlBWZz09, Meeting ID: 874 0950 9323, Passcode: 985446.

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP – “Our Time,” the fellowship group at St. Mary’s for those over 50, will meet for the last time until September on Wednesday, June 21, from 1-3 PM. The group will continue to host pickleball on Tuesdays from 7-9 PM and tentatively on Thursdays if there is sufficient interest. Share your thoughts and ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616.

MIDNIGHT RUN – Deacon Farid will once again lead our teens and young people on the Midnight Run into Manhattan to feed, clothe, and encourage the homeless and immigrants. The group meets to prepare food at Holy Cross G.O. Church around 8 PM and usually leaves for the city around 9 PM.

MOVIE NIGHT – The combined Church School, PTO, and Teens will host Movie Night at the church on Saturday, June 17, after Great Vespers. Bring the whole family to view an inspiring movie along with popcorn and other snacks. Please see the flyer in this bulletin or Lara Rustom Al Laham for more information.

EASTERN DIOCESES PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – The parish of St. Moses the Black of Pittsburgh, PA, will host this year’s Parish Life Conference at the beautiful Antiochian Village Conference and Retreat Center in Ligonier, PA, from June 28-July 2. Information and registration are now open on-line at www.antiochianevents.com. Please register and make room reservations now in order to secure a place at the conference center itself.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, June 12 Parish Council, 7:30 PM

Wednesday, June 14 Adult Education, 7:00 PM

Thursday, June 15 Ladies” Closing Dinner @ Hunter’s Steakhouse, 6:00 PM

Saturday, June 17 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM followed by Movie Night

Wednesday, June 21 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

June 28 - July 2 Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

July 23 – 30 Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Since our sweet Jesus is so good, compassionate, and kind, why should you despair? We seek one small thing from Him, and He gives us so much! We ask for one beam of light, and He gives us Himself as all Light, Truth, and Love. So humble yourself and rest all your hope in Him.”

- Elder Joseph the Hesychast

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, June 4, 2023 - THE GREAT FEAST OF HOLY PENTECOST

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, June 4, 2023

Great Feast of Holy Pentecost

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

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

Apolytikion of Pentecost – Tone 8

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

Kontakion of Pentecost – Tone 8

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

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

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

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

Verse. The heavens declare the glory of God.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JUNE 4, 2023 – THE GREAT FEAST OF HOLY PENTECOST

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

SUNDAY, JUNE 4 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George Fattouh, Wadih Massab, Alice Muscat, Adolph, Nicholas and Rose Smatt, and Henrietta Shawah. Memory eternal!

Jenfiaf Hakima offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of her sister, the handmaiden of God Wared Alkori. Memory eternal. The Hakima Family also offers prayers for the Alkhori, Talab and Hakima Families.

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 11 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Fouad Allawh, Edward Ateyeh Jr., Shafica Debagie, Michael Haje, Kathleen Halloran, Eduardo Elias Khouzami, Joseph G. Mashamesh¸ Betty Massab, Nicholas Orfaly, Albert T. Sabah, and Marianne Trabulsi. Memory eternal!

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

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Rose Abdallah (NYU Langone/Lutheran), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD) and Rose Zrake (at home).

APOSTLES FAST – Each year the “Apostles Fast” or the “Fast of Saints Peter and Paul” extends from the Monday following All Saints Sunday (June 12 this year) until the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29). Let’s use this short fast to pray for missions and missionaries at home and abroad who are striving to carry out Jesus’ Great Commission.

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

APARTMENT NEEDED – A couple is seeking a one-bedroom apartment in the Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights or Sunset area. They need to move soon. If you have a space to rent or know of anyone who does, please call or text (850) 340-1385.

SUMMER SEMESTER – Our continuing education class for adults will meet on most Wednesdays of June and July at 7:00 PM. Our text will be Orthodox Christianity, Vol. 5: Sacraments and Other Rites by Metropolitan HILARION (Alfeyev). Please sign up to purchase a copy of the book at the parish bookstore. We will order them at a discount from St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press. If you cannot afford the price of the book, please see Fr. Michael in confidence.

SECOND FRIDAY – A group of young adults has asked for an opportunity to have an open discussion with the pastor. We will meet on the second Friday of each month at 7 PM. This first meeting will be this Friday, June 9. Please see Lara Rustom Al-Laham for more information. All are welcome!

SENIOR FELLOWSHIP – “Our Time,” the fellowship group at St. Mary’s for those over 50, will meet on Wednesday, June 7, from 1- 3 PM. The last gathering until September will be Wednesday, June 21. All are welcome. In addition, Our Time will sponsor Pickleball every Tuesday and Thursday in June from 7-9 PM. All players/spectators are welcome. Share your thoughts and ideas with Marilyn Tulaney at (718) 208-3616.

BACKYARD BBQ – The Parish Council will host a BBQ outside on the lawn (weather permitting) following the Divine Liturgy. Special guest will be Rula Khoury, President of the Antiochian Women of the East (AWE).

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS – Several of our campers heading to the Antiochian Village Camp this summer could use a little scholarship assistance. If you are able to help with a contribution, please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church with “Camp Scholarship” in the memo line. Fr. Michael will deposit any contributions in the Pastor’s Discretionary Fund and distribute the scholarships in confidence. Donors will receive an acknowledgement and receipt for tax purposes.

EASTERN DIOCESES PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – The parish of St. Moses the Black of Pittsburgh, PA, will host this year’s Parish Life Conference at the beautiful Antiochian Village Conference and Retreat Center in Ligonier, PA, from June 28-July 2. Information and registration are now open on-line at www.antiochianevents.com. Please register and make room reservations now in order to secure a place at the conference center itself.

56th ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION, Phoenix, AZ – Sunday, July 23, 2023-Sunday, July 30, 2023 – Hosted by St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, Phoenix, AZ, at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa. To book rooms at the hotel, register for the convention, purchase convention event tickets and obtain forms to place a message in the Souvenir Journal, go to www.ac2023az.org. Rooms are booking quickly for this historic convention.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, June 7 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

June 6 and 8 Pickleball, 7-9 PM

Friday, June 9 Second Friday Fellowship, 7 PM

Saturday, June 10 No Great Vespers

Monday, June 12 Holy Apostles Fast Begins

Parish Council, 7:30 PM

Saturday, June 17 Family Movie Night, 7 PM

June 28 - July 2 Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “We must love Christ; this is necessary for the life of our soul. We also need to love God’s creation: animals, trees, flowers, birds, and above all, the most perfect of God’s creation, man.”

- St. Amphilochios of Patmos

Bulletin for Sunday, May 28, 2023 - SUNDAY OF THE AFTER-FEAST OF THE ASCENSION

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 SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, May 28, 2023

Sunday of the After-Feast of the Ascension

Tone 6 and Eothinon 10

Commemoration of the Holy Fathers of the Frist Ecumenical Council

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 6

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

Apolytikion of the Ascension – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of the Holy Fathers – Tone 8

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Ascension – Tone 6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Instead of “We have seen the true light…” we sing the Apolytikion of the Ascension.

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

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

MAY 28, 2023 – SUNDAY OF THE AFTER-FEAST OF THE ASCENSION

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

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

SUNDAY, MAY 28 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Archimandrite Agapios Golam, Madeleine Abousleman, Thomas Gehshan, Fares Deban, Rose and Victoria Makhoul, Nicholas Malouf, John and Maurice Moussy, Khalil Nader, Sebastian Rothammer, Victor M. Samra Jr., Mildred Sarkis, Christ Sparsidis, and Theodore Tadross. Memory eternal!

Aline and Deacon Farid Farkouh and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nicholas Malouf and John and Maurice Moussy. Memory eternal!

Refaat S. Kabah offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God George Kadour. Memory eternal!

The Ellias Family offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Protopresbyter Angelo Artemas. Memory eternal!

Christopher Castley offers Prayers of Oblation and a 2-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of his father, the servant of God Albert Castley. Memory eternal!

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation and a 5-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Sebastian Rothhammer. Memory eternal!

FASTING DISCIPLINE – We will fast as usual this week on Wednesday and Friday. There is no fasting following Holy Pentecost (June 4) until the beginning of the Apostles Fast (June 12).

APARTMENT NEEDED – A couple is seeking a one-bedroom apartment in the Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights or Sunset area. They need to move soon. If you have a space to rent or know of anyone who does, please call or text (850) 340-1385.

HOLY BREAD – Joey and Gareth Ganim offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of May in loving memory of the handmaiden of God Mary Ganim. Memory eternal! Refaat S. Kabah also offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of May in loving memory of the servant of God George Kadour. Memory eternal! Donors are welcome for June 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), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD) and Rose Zrake (at home).

SUMMER SEMESTER – Our continuing education class for adults will meet on most Wednesdays of June and July at 7:00 PM. Our text will be Orthodox Christianity, Vol. 5: Sacraments and Other Rites by Metropolitan HILARION (Alfeyev). Please sign up to purchase a copy of the book at the parish bookstore. We will order them at a discount from St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press. If you cannot afford the price of the book, please see Fr. Michael in confidence.

BACKYARD BBQ – Next Sunday the Parish Council will host a BBQ outside on the lawn (weather permitting) following the Divine Liturgy for the Feast of Pentecost. Please see the flyer in this bulletin for more information. Volunteers should contact Rima Alsifi Hazem at (347) 649-5794 or Christopher Athineos at (347) 675-3655. Special guest will be Rula Khoury, President of the Antiochian Women of the East (AWE).

CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS – Several of our campers heading to the Antiochian Village Camp this summer could use a little scholarship assistance. If you are able to help with a contribution, please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church with “Camp Scholarship” in the memo line. Fr. Michael will deposit any contributions in the Pastor’s Discretionary Fund and distribute the scholarships in confidence. Donors will receive an acknowledgement and receipt for tax purposes.

EASTERN DIOCESES PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – The parish of St. Moses the Black of Pittsburgh, PA, will host this year’s Parish Life Conference at the beautiful Antiochian Village Conference and Retreat Center in Ligonier, PA, from June 28-July 2. Information and registration are now open on-line at www.antiochianevents.com. Please register and make room reservations now in order to secure a place at the conference center itself.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, June 3 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, June 4 Holy Pentecost followed by Backyard Barbecue

Wednesday, June 14 Adult Education, 7:00 PM

June 28 - July 2 Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

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

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, May 21, 2023 - SIXTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA: SUNDAY OF THE BLIND MAN

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, May 21, 2023

Sixth Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of the Blind Man

Tone 5 and Eothinon 8

Equals-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helen

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

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

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 5

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

Apolytikion of Constantine and Helen – Tone 8

Constantine, who is thine apostle among kings, O Lord, having beheld with his own eyes the sign of thy cross in heaven, and like Paul having accepted thy call not from man, entrusted the reigning city to thy hands, delivering it with safety for all time by the intercessions of the Theotokos, O thou who art alone the Lover of mankind.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

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

Epistle – Acts of the Apostles 26:1, 12-20 (Equals-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helen)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 12:4, 1. Their sound has gone forth into all the earth.

Verse. The heavens declare the glory of God!

IN THOSE DAYS, Agrippa the king said to Paul, “You are permitted to speak on your own behalf.” Then Paul stretched out his hand, and delivered his defense, saying: “When I journeyed to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests, at midday, O king, I saw on the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me with those who journeyed with me. And when we had all fallen upon the earth, I heard a voice saying to me in the Hebrew language, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” And I said, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And He said, ‘I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. But rise, and stand upon your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose: to appoint you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen, and of the things in which I will appear in for you; delivering you from the people, and from the nations, to whom I will send you, to open their eyes, that they may turn back from darkness to light, and from the authority of Satan to God, that they may receive remission of sins and a portion among those who are sanctified by faith which is in Me.’ Wherefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, but proclaimed first to those at Damascus, then at Jerusalem and throughout all the country of Judaea, and also to the nations, that they should repent and turn back to God, practicing works worthy of repentance.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next week’s homework: Acts 26:1, 12-20 (Saints Constantine and Helen)

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

HOLY BREAD – Joey and Gareth Ganim offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of May in loving memory of the handmaiden of God Mary Ganim. Memory eternal! Refaat S. Kabah also offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of May in loving memory of the servant of God George Kadour. Memory eternal! Linda and George Salamy have also made a donation for the entire year. Many years! Additional donors are welcome for May and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

FASTING DISCIPLINE – We have returned to our normal fasting practice. Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, May 25. There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 4.

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

MAY 21, 2023 – SIXTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA: SUNDAY OF THE BLIND MAN

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

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.

SUNDAY, MAY 21 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George M. Alsifi, Lorraine and Rose Ghiz, James Vernon Harris, Abraham J. Karkenny, Margaret Kassatly, Valerie J. Konecny, Brian E. Mackoul, George and Marie Saab, Buddy B. Saleeby, Samuel G. Samman, and Gloria Rose Shawah. Memory eternal!

Refaat S. Kabah offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God George Kadour. Memory eternal!

Deborah and Robert Mackoul offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Brian Mackoul. Memory eternal!

Catherine and Raymond Saleeby offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Buddy Saleeby. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 28 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Archimandrite Agapios Golam, Madeleine Abousleman, Thomas Gehshan, Fares Deban, Rose and Victoria Makhoul, Nicholas Malouf and John and Maurice Moussy, Khalil Nader, Sebastian Rothammer, Victor M. Samra Jr., Mildred Sarkis, Christ Sparsidis, and Theodore Tadross. Memory eternal!

Christopher Castley will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 2-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of his father, the servant of God Albert Castley. Memory eternal!

George Trisciuzzi will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 5-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Sebastian Rothhammer. Memory eternal!

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

FEAST OF THE ASCENSION – We will celebrate an Evening Divine Liturgy on Wednesday, May 24, at 7:00 PM, in anticipation of the Feast of the Ascension of Christ on May 25. Communicants should begin their Eucharistic fast after an early and light lunch.

ORTHODOXY ON TAP – Young adults are invited to the next Orthodoxy on Tap at St. George Orthodox Church, 307 West 54th Street in New York, on Tuesday, May 23, at 8:00 PM. Fr. Constantine will speak on “Ín the World but not of the World.” Drinks will follow at a local bar!

BACKYARD BBQ – The Parish Council will host a “Backyard Barbecue” on Sunday, June 4, following the Divine Liturgy for the Feast of Pentecost. Please see the flyer in this bulletin for more information. We will welcome special guest Roula Khoury, President of the Antiochian Women of the East that day.

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

MAIONE SCHOLARSHIP – The Georgette Maione Memorial Scholarship will make its annual award this year from the fund left to the church from Georgette’s estate. The college student who is awarded the scholarship must meet the following guidelines:

a) The recipient of the scholarship, must be an active member in good standing of St. Mary’s, and

b) The recipient must attend an accredited college or university in any state within the United States, c) The recipient must maintain an overall grade average of not less than a B- (82).

The duration of the scholarship covers one year, and a recipient may receive the annual scholarship more than once, if agreed upon by the pastor of St. Mary’s and the Chairman of the St. Mary’s Parish Council. Please contact Fr. Michael for more information.

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

EASTERN DIOCESES PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – The parish of St. Moses the Black of Pittsburgh, PA, will host this year’s Parish Life Conference at the beautiful Antiochian Village Conference and Retreat Center in Ligonier, PA, from June 28-July 2. Information and registration are now open on-line at www.antiochianevents.com. Please register and make room reservations now in order to secure a place at the conference center itself.

56th ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION, Phoenix, AZ – Sunday, July 23, 2023-Sunday, July 30, 2023 – Hosted by St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, Phoenix, AZ, at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa. To book rooms at the hotel, register for the convention, purchase convention event tickets and obtain forms to place a message in the Souvenir Journal, go to www.ac2023az.org. Rooms are booking quickly for this historic convention.

ON-LINE GIVING – St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online. Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or checking account. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, May 24 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Evening Divine Liturgy for the Ascension, 7:00 PM

Thursday, May 25 Feast of the Ascension of Christ

Saturday, May 27 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

June 28 - July 2 Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

July 23 – 30 Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “If you wish to gain victory over your thoughts, attend to your passions, whereby you will easily banish your thoughts from your mind. To be precise, when you are bothered by impure thoughts, you should fast, keep vigil, toil and avoid harmful associations. In order to ward off anger and sorrow, do not let either glory, dishonor, or material things interest you. In order to conquer resentment, pray with fervor for the one who who grieved you; and you will assuredly be freed from it.”

- St. Maximus the Confessor

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

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

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

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

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, May 14, 2023 - FIFTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA: SUNDAY OF THE SAMARITAN WOMAN

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, May 14, 2023

Fifth Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of the Samaritan Woman

Tone 4 and Eothinon 7

Martyr Isidore of Chios

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

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

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of Mid-Pentecost – Tone 8

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

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

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

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

Verse. Bless the Lord, O my soul.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next week’s homework: Acts 26:1, 12-20 (Saints Constantine and Helen)

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

HOLY BREAD – Joey and Gareth Ganim offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of May in loving memory of the handmaiden of God Mary Ganim. Memory eternal! Refaat S. Kabah also offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of May in loving memory of the servant of God George Kadour. Memory eternal! Linda and George Salamy have also made a donation for the entire year. Many years! Additional donors are welcome for May 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.

MAY 14, 2023 – FIFTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA: SUNDAY OF THE SAMARITAN WOMAN

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.

SUNDAY, MAY 14 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Asma Araman and Murad Kaidy, Michael Davis, Hadbo and Nadra Haddad, Ibrahim Makarus Laham, Toufic E. Nehme, Richard A. Sahadi, and Ratiba Sukkkarieh. Memory eternal!

Refaat S. Kabah offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God George Kadour. Memory eternal!

Tony Nehme offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Toufic E. Nehme. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 21 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George M. Alsifi, Lorraine and Rose Ghiz, James Vernon Harris, Abraham J. Karkenny, Margaret Kassatly, Valerie J. Konecny, Brian E. Mackoul, George and Marie Saab, Buddy Saleeby, Samuel G. Samman, and Gloria Rose Shawah. Memory eternal!

Deborah and Robert Mackoul will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Brian Mackoul. Memory eternal!

Catherine and Raymond Saleeby will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Buddy Saleeby. Memory eternal!

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, May 20 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Wednesday, May 24 Evening Divine Liturgy for the Ascension, 7:00 PM

Thursday, May 25 Feast of the Ascension of Christ

June 28 - July 2 Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

July 23 – 30 Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ

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

Bulletin for Sunday, May 7, 2023 - FOURTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA: SUNDAY OF THE PARALYTIC

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, May 7, 2023

Fourth Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of Paralytic

Tone 3 and Eothinon 5

Appearance of the Sign of the Precious Cross above Jerusalem (351 AD)

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

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

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 3

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

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

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

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

Verse. Clap your hands, all you nations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next week’s homework: Acts 11:19-30 (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman)

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

MAY 7, 2023 – FOURTH SUNDAY OF PASCHA: SUNDAY OF THE PARALYTIC

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.

SUNDAY, MAY 7 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Ateyeh, Nour Abu-Assali El Khoury, William Eyd, Diane Elkas Grinnell, Rose Hanna, Viola Mesnooh, Yvonne Najjar, Gladys and Theodore Sadaka, Margaret Soued, Salma Torpey, and Nada Traboulsi, Careemy and George Zaher. Memory eternal!

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

Refaat S. Kabah offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God George Kadour. Memory eternal!

Karen Sadaka offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Gladys and Theodore Sadaka. Memory eternal!

Louise Sahadi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Salma Torpey. Memory eternal!

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

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 14 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Asma Araman and Murad Kaidy, Michael Davis, Hadbo and Nadra Haddad, Ibrahim Makarus Laham, Toufic E. Nehme, Richard A. Sahadi, and Ratiba Sukkkarieh. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Wade Saadi (Cornell), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD) and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

HOLY BREAD – Joey and Gareth Ganim offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of May in loving memory of the handmaiden of God Mary Ganim. Memory eternal! Refaat S. Kabah also offers the Holy Bread of Oblation for the month of May in loving memory of the servant of God George Kadour. Memory eternal! Linda and George Salamy have also made a donation for the entire year. Many years! Additional donors are welcome for May and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

MA’AMOUL BAKE SALE - Our annual Ma'amoul Bake Sale has come to another very successful end. The baking was excellent, the fellowship was better, and their efforts supported a vitally important cause. Fr Michael will again present a check for $10,000 to International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) in support of their programs to aid the people of Syria and Turkey who were impacted by the earthquake in February. The Ma'amoul committee would like to thank Audrey, Charlie and Bob Sahadi for their continued support in providing the fine ingredients for our cookies! Congratulations to Naziha Aldaia, Rima Alsifi-Hazem, Mayada Baroudy, Lama Bittar, Nahla Bittar, Majdeline Elkhoury, Kh. Laila Ellias, Marie Fallah, Aline Farkouh, Noor Fattouh, Siham Fattouh, Antoinette Ghattas, Hilani Hanna, Marianne Hindelly, Joyce Katen, Terez Khoury, Kinana Isber, Hanadi Kaba-Maalouf, Hend Kaba, Lina Kaba, Maha Kaba, Samia Keriaky, Razan Khoury-Maalouf, Nahla Laham, Therese Maalouf, Christina Noma, Ghada Owaid, Chaza Rafiaa, Vanda Salloum, Oula Sayiegh, Rania Sousou, Irene Tashji, Rana Yaziji, Josephine Zgheib, Leen Zgheib, and Yvonne Zrake. God bless your very talented hands!

ENTHRONEMENT – The enthronement of His Eminence, the Most Reverend Metropolitan Archbishop SABA, will take place on Saturday, May 13, at 11:00 AM at St. Nicholas Cathedral. A banquet will follow the enthronement at the Marriott Hotel on Adams Street. Reservation details appear in this bulletin, on the bulletin board, and on the archdiocese website.

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

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will hold its regular monthly meeting tomorrow, May 8, at 7:30 PM

EASTERN DIOCESES PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – The parish of St. Moses the Black of Pittsburgh, PA, will host this year’s Parish Life Conference at the beautiful Antiochian Village Conference and Retreat Center in Ligonier, PA, from June 28-July 2. Information and registration are now open on-line at www.antiochianevents.com. Please register and make room reservations now in order to secure a place at the conference center itself.

56th ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION, Phoenix, AZ – Sunday, July 23, 2023-Sunday, July 30, 2023 – Hosted by St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, Phoenix, AZ, at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa. To book rooms at the hotel, register for the convention, purchase convention event tickets and obtain forms to place a message in the Souvenir Journal, go to www.ac2023az.org. Rooms are booking quickly for this historic convention.

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

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

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

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

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college. Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2023. For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, May 8 Parish Council, 7:30 PM

Saturday, May 13 Enthronement of Metropolitan SABA

No Great Vespers

Wednesday, May 24 Evening Divine Liturgy for the Ascension

Thursday, May 25 Feast of the Ascension of Christ

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “You will become worthy of the wondrous and blessed images of the Jerusalem on high in no other way than by day and night shedding tears according to the example of him who said: Every night I flood my bed, I water my couch with my tears (Psalm 6:7). A tear shed from great sorrow and heartfelt distress is food for the soul, given from heavenly bread.”

- St. Macarius the Great

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

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

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

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

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!

Bulletin for Sunday, April 30, 2023 - THE HOLY MYRRH-BEARING WOMEN, PIOUS JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA, AND PIOUS NICODEMUS

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 SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, April 30, 2023

Third Sunday of Pascha: Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women,

Pious Joseph of Arimathea and Righteous Nicodemus

Tone 2 and Eothinon 4

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

During the Little Entrance, “Christ is risen…”

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

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 2

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

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

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

Apolytikion of the Myrrh Bearing Women – Tone 2

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

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

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

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

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

Verse. The Lord has chastened me sorely.

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

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

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

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

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

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

MEGALYNARION FOR PASCHA (Tone 1) – The angel cried unto her that is full of grace: O pure Virgin, rejoice, and again I say, rejoice; for thy Son hath arisen from the grave on the third day. Shine, shine, O new Jerusalem, for the glory of the Lord hath arisen upon thee; dance now and be glad, O Zion, and do thy exult, O pure Theotokos, in the arising of Him Whom thou didst bear.

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

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

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

APRIL 30, 2023 – THE HOLY MYRRH-BEARING WOMEN, PIOUS JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA, AND PIOUS NICODEMUS

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, APRIL 30 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Helen Cook, James J. Coury, Yvonne and Alexander Hamwi, Michael Howie, Yvonne Khoury, Renee Matouk, Yvonne Nicholas, and Gabriel and Nazira Samen. Memory eternal!

The Kadour Family offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God George Kadour. Memory eternal!

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

NEXT SUNDAY, MAY 7 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Ateyeh, Nour Abu-Assali El Khoury, William Eyd, Diane Elkas Grinnell, Rose Hanna, Viola Mesnooh, Yvonne Najjar, Gladys and Theodore Sadaka, Margaret Soued, Salma Torpey, and Nada Traboulsi, Careemy. Memory eternal!

Peter Elkas will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Diane Elkas Grinnell. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Wade Saadi (Cornell), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD) and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

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

ENTHRONEMENT – The enthronement of His Eminence, the Most Reverend Metropolitan Archbishop SABA, will take place on Saturday, May 13, at 11:00 AM at St. Nicholas Cathedral. A banquet will follow the enthronement at the Marriott Hotel on Adams Street. Please see this bulletin for reservation information and the schedule of events.

PATRIARCH – Our pledge envelopes for the month of April included a pink envelope marked “Patriarch.” Please use this envelope to support the Metropolitan’s annual appeal on behalf of the Patriarch of Antioch, especially in the wake of the recent earthquake. Our minimum contribution as a parish is $500. If anyone is currently not receiving pledge envelopes, please see Fr. Michael or Parish Council Chair Anthony Zrake.

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

“OUR TIME” – Due to the Holy Week postponement of their regular schedule, there will be an additional gathering this month of “Our Time,” our senior fellowship, on Wednesday, April 26, from 1:00-3:00 PM. We will resume the regular schedule of the first and third Wednesday of each month on May 3. All are welcome! Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

MYRRH-BEARING WOMEN – Many thanks to the women, men, and girls who lovingly and beautifully adorned the Tomb of Christ for Holy Friday evening: Rima Alsifi Hazem, Sonia Abounaoum, Naziha Aldaia, Roula Alsifi, Sandra Arida, Joan Bacon, Nahla Bittar, Barbara Deeb, Laila Ellias, Joyce Katen, Arabella Kitchen, Samia Kyriaki, Chloe LeClair, Dianna Russo Kitchen, Asber Noma, Easa Noma, Christina Noma, Chaza Rafiaa, Alice Regnier, Susanna Regnier, Karen Spolar, Paula Spolar, Renna Yazge, and Lina Zaher.

CHOIR, CHANTERS AND READERS – Many thanks to Sandra Arida and our dedicated choir for their inspirational singing throughout Great Lent and Holy Week. We also thank the chanters and readers who served so faithfully and beautifully: Sonia Abounaoum, Chris Castley, Christopher Castley, Laila Ellias, Wilson Haddad, Oscar Hernandez, Michael Regnier, Irene Tashji, George Trisciuzzi, Andrea Zrake, and Anthony Zrake.

SPECIAL COLLECTION – Today we will pray for the repose of the soul of a 39-year-old man who leaves behind a wife and three young daughters. Donors who would like to make a contribution for this family may make checks payable to St. Mary Church with “GK” in the memo line, and the church will accumulate a gift of love.

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

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

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

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

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

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college. Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2023. For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

EASTERN DIOCESES PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – The parish of St. Moses the Black of Pittsburgh, PA, will host this year’s Parish Life Conference at the beautiful Antiochian Village Conference and Retreat Center in Ligonier, PA, from June 28-July 2. Information and registration are now open on-line at www.antiochianevents.com. Please register and make room reservations now in order to secure a place at the conference center itself.

56th ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION, Phoenix, AZ – Sunday, July 23, 2023-Sunday, July 30, 2023 – Hosted by St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, Phoenix, AZ, at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa. To book rooms at the hotel, register for the convention, purchase convention event tickets and obtain forms to place a message in the Souvenir Journal, go to www.ac2023az.org. Rooms are booking quickly for this historic convention.

VISITATION OF THE SICK AND HOUSE-BOUND – If someone in your household is sick at home, in the hospital or in a convalescent center, please notify the church office as soon as possible. Please do not assume that we will know simply “through the grapevine.”

WORD MAGAZINE – All registered members of the parish are entitled to receive the Word Magazine at home. If you are not receiving the Word, please contact the church office so that we can submit your name for the mailing list, or go to https://forms.gle/89UzjjM2Ad4ubiC5A to subscribe or change your contact information directly.

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

ON-LINE GIVING – St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online. Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or checking account. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

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

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Friday, May 5 Family Night, 7:00-9:00 PM

Saturday, May 6 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Monday, May 8 Parish Council, 7:30 PM

Saturday, May 13 Enthronement of Metropolitan SABA

Wednesday, May 24 Evening Divine Liturgy for the Ascension, 7:00 PM

Thursday, May 25 Feast of the Ascension of Christ

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “The man who has found love eats and drinks Christ evrey day and hour and so is made immortal. Whoever eats of this bread, He says, which I will give him, will never taste death. Blessed is he who consumes the bread of love, which is Jesus! He who eats of love eats Christ, the God over all, as John bears witness, saying, God is love.”

- St. Isaac the Syrian

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

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

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

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

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, April 23, 2023 - New Sunday and Great Martyr George the Trophy Bearer

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 SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, April 23, 2023

New Sunday or Anti-Pascha

Sunday of Thomas the Apostle, Called “The Twin”

Great Martyr and Trophy Bearer George

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

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

Apolytikion of St. Thomas - Tone 7

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

Apolytikion of St. George – Tone 4

Since thou are a liberator and deliverer of captives, a help and succour of the poor and needy, a healing physician of the sick, a contender and fighter for kings, O great among Martyrs, the victory-clad George; intercede with Christ God for the salvation of our souls.

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

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

Epistle – Acts 12:1-11 (St. George)

Prokeimenon. The righteous shall rejoice in the Lord.

Verse. Hear my voice, O God.

IN THOSE DAYS, Herod the king laid violent hands upon some who belonged to the church. He killed James the brother of John with the sword; and when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter also. This was during the days of Unleavened Bread. And when he had seized him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending after the Passover to bring him out to the people. So Peter was kept in prison; but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the Church. The very night when Herod was about to bring him out, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison; and behold, an angel of the Lord appeared, and a light shone in the cell; and he struck Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his hands. And the angel said to him, “Wrap your mantle around you and follow me.” And he went out and followed him; he did not know that was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. When they had passed the first and the second guard, they came to the iron gate leading into the city. It opened to them of its own accord, and they went out and passed on through one street; and immediately the angel left him. And Peter came to himself, and said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

APRIL 23, 2022 – NEW SUNDAY AND GREAT MARTYR GEORGE THE TROPHY BEARER

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.

CHRIST IS RISEN! TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, APRIL 23 – We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Mary Ayoub, Jean and George Fadool, Marie Farkouh, Raymond Farkouh, Albert Hanna, George Kaiatt, Edward S. Mackoul, Violet Mamary, Vivian S. Massab, Linda and William Nafash, Stanley Najjar, Maria Pallas, Olga and Abraham Saba, Marie B. Savarese, Felipe Trabulsi, John Wizeman, and Albert G. Zarr. Memory eternal!

Rose Abdallah offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Olga and Abraham Saba and Jean and George Fadool. Memory eternal!

Sandra Coogan offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the sol of her grandmother, the handmaiden of God Mary Savarese. Memory eternal!

George Elkas offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God George Kaiatt. Memory eternal!

Louise Sahadi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Patricia Sweeney. Memory eternal!

The Ladies of St. Mary’s offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of our dearly departed sisters, the handmaidens of God Mary Ganim and Marie Zarr. Memory eternal!

The Family of Mary Ganim 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 Family of Marie Zarr offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of her soul. In lieu of a Coffee Hour, the family will make a donation to the Ladies’ Christmas Boutique in her memory. Memory eternal!

The Family of Mary Pallas offers Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of her soul, as well as prayers for the servants of God Chris Pallas, James Pallas, and Amelia Tenentes. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, APRIL 30 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Helen Cook, James J. Coury, Yvonne and Alexander Hamwi, Michael Howie, Yvonne Khoury, Renee Matouk, Yvonne Nicholas, and Gabriel and Nazira Samen. Memory eternal!

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

The Family of Leon Smatt will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of his soul. Memory eternal

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Wade Saadi (Cornell), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD) and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

ENTHRONEMENT – The enthronement of His Eminence, the Most Reverend Metropolitan Archbishop SABA, will take place on Saturday, May 13, at 11:00 AM at St. Nicholas Cathedral. A banquet will follow the enthronement at the Marriott Hotel on Adams Street. Reservation details will follow soon.

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

AXIOS! Third year seminarian Rev. Fr. Joseph Thornburg was ordained to the Holy Priesthood during the Vesperal Divine Liturgy of Holy Thursday morning at St. Anthony Church in Bergenfield, NJ, at the hands of His Eminence, Metropolitan SABA. God grant him, Marina and the children many happy, healthy and fruitful years of service in the Lord’s Vineyard!

PATRIARCH – Our pledge envelopes for the month of April included a pink envelope marked “Patriarch.” Please use this envelope to support the Metropolitan’s annual appeal on behalf of the Patriarch of Antioch, especially in the wake of the recent earthquake. Our minimum contribution as a parish is $500. If anyone is currently not receiving pledge envelopes, please see Fr. Michael or Parish Council Chair Anthony Zrake.

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

“OUR TIME” – Due to the Holy Week postponement of their regular schedule, there will be an additional gathering this month of “Our Time,” our senior fellowship, on Wednesday, April 26, from 1:00-3:00 PM. We will resume the regular schedule of the first and third Wednesday of each month on May 3. All are welcome! Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

MYRRH-BEARING WOMEN – Many thanks to the women, men, and girls who lovingly and beautifully adorned the Tomb of Christ for Holy Friday evening: Rima Alsifi Hazem, Sonia Abounaoum, Naziha Aldaia, Roula Alsifi, Sandra Arida, Joan Bacon, Nahla Bittar, Barbara Deeb, Laila Ellias, Joyce Katen, Arabella Kitchen, Samia Kyriaki, Chloe LeClair, Dianna Russo Kitchen, Asber Noma, Easa Noma, Christina Noma, Chaza Rafiaa, Alice Regnier, Susanna Regnier, Karen Spolar, Paula Spolar, Renna Yazge, and Lina Zaher.

CHOIR, CHANTERS AND READERS – Many thanks to Sandra Arida and our dedicated choir for their inspirational singing throughout Great Lent and Holy Week. We also thank the chanters and readers who served so faithfully and beautifully: Sonia Abounaoum, Chris Castley, Christopher Castley, Laila Ellias, Wilson Haddad, Oscar Hernandez, Michael Regnier, Irene Tashji, George Trisciuzzi, Andrea Zrake, and Anthony Zrake.

SPECIAL COLLECTION – Next week we will pray for the repose of the soul of a 39-year-old man who leaves behind a wife and three young daughters. Donors who would like to make a contribution for this family may make checks payable to St. Mary Church with “GK” in the memo line, and the church will accumulate a gift of love.

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

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

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

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

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college. Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2023. For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

EASTERN DIOCESES PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – The parish of St. Moses the Black will host this year’s Parish Life Conference at the beautiful Antiochian Village Conference and Retreat Center in Ligonier, PA, from June 28-July 2. Information and registration are now open on-line at www.antiochianevents.com. Please register and make room reservations now in order to secure a place at the conference center itself.

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

56th Antiochian Archdiocese Convention, Phoenix, AZ – Sunday, July 23, 2023-Sunday, July 30, 2023 – Hosted by St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, Phoenix, AZ, at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort and Spa. To book rooms at the hotel, register for the convention, purchase convention event tickets and obtain forms to place a message in the Souvenir Journal, go to www.ac2023az.org. Rooms are booking quickly for this historic convention.

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

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, April 26 “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Saturday, April 29 No Great Vespers

Friday, May 5 Family Night, 7:00-9:00 PM

Saturday, May 6 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Monday, May 8 Parish Council, 7:30 PM

Saturday, May 13 Enthronement of Metropolitan SABA

Thursday, May 25 Feast of the Ascension of Christ

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “The man who has found love eats and drinks Christ evrey day and hour and so is made immortal. Whoever eats of this bread, He says, which I will give him, will never taste death. Blessed is he who consumes the bread of love, which is Jesus! He who eats of love eats Christ, the God over all, as John bears witness, saying, God is love.”

- St. Isaac the Syrian

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

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

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

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

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!

Bulletin for Sunday, APRIL 16, 2023 – GREAT AND HOLY PASCHA

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 SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, April 16, 2023

Great and Holy Pascha

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

Today’s Hymns and Readings

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

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

Hypakoe of Holy Pascha – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of Holy Pascha – Tone 8

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gospel – John 1:1-17 (Holy Pascha)

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

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

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

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

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

John 20:19-31 (Thomas Sunday)

APRIL 16, 2022 – GREAT AND HOLY PASCHA

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

CHRIST IS RISEN! TRULY HE IS RISEN!

TODAY, APRIL 16 - On Holy Pascha we pray for all “the quick and the dead” of the parish. Memory eternal!

NO FASTING – The church prohibits fasting all week due to the joy of the Resurrection. Within the Patriarchate of Antioch some suspend fasting until the Feast of the Ascension, May 25. There is also no kneeling until Holy Pentecost on June 4.

NEXT SUNDAY, APRIL 23 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Mary Ayoub, Jean and George Fadool, Marie Farkouh, Raymond Farkouh, Albert Hanna, George Kaiatt, Edward S. Mackoul, Violet Mamary, Vivian S. Massab, Linda and William Nafash, Stanley Najjar, Maria Pallas, Olga and Abraham Saba, Marie B. Savarese, Felipe Trabulsi, John Wizeman, and Albert G. Zarr. Memory eternal!

Rose Abdallah will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Olga and Abraham Saba and Jean and George Fadool. Memory eternal!

George Elkas will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God George Kaiatt. Memory eternal!

Louise Sahadi will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Patricia Sweeney. Memory eternal!

The Ladies of St. Mary’s will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of our dearly departed sister, the handmaiden of God Marie Zarr. Memory eternal!

The Family of Mary Ganim 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!

The Family of Marie Zarr 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!

The Family of Mary Pallas will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of her soul as well as prayers for the servants of God Chris Pallas, James Pallas, and Amelia Tenentes. Memory eternal!

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

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Wade Saadi (Cornell), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD) and Rose Zrake, (at home).

AGAPE BREAKFAST - Audrey and Charles Sahadi and Robert Sahadi have once again underwritten the Breakfast for Holy Pascha in loving memory of Najla and Wade Sahadi, Richie Sahadi, and Ameenie Freije. Memory eternal!

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

AGAPE VESPERS – At Agape Vespers at noon on Holy Pascha, April 16, we will read the Gospel in many languages. Please see Fr. Michael if you would like to read in a foreign language.

AXIOS! Third year seminarian Rev. Deacon Joseph Thornburg will be ordained to the Holy Priesthood during the Vesperal Divine Liturgy of Holy Thursday morning at St. Anthony Church in Bergenfield, NJ. Grant grant him, Marina and the children many happy, healthy and fruitful years of service in the Lord’s Vineyard!

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

PATRIARCH – Our pledge envelopes for the month of April included a pink envelope marked “Patriarch.” Please use this envelope to support the Metropolitan’s annual appeal on behalf of the Patriarch of Antioch, especially in the wake of the recent earthquake. Our minimum contribution as a parish is $500. If anyone is currently not receiving pledge envelopes, please see Fr. Michael or Parish Council Chair Anthony Zrake.

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

SPECIAL COLLECTION – Last week we prayed for the repose of the soul of a 39-year-old man who now leaves behind a wife and three young daughters. Donors who would like to make a contribution for this family may make checks payable to St. Mary Church with “GK” in the memo line, and the church will accumulate a gift of love.

PALM SUNDAY MA-AMOUL SALE – We thank the faithful ladies who labored so lovingly this Great Lent to provide ma-amoul for our holiday celebrations. The proceeds from this project, estimated at $10,000, will go to International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) for their projects in support of the suffering people of Lebanon, Syria and Turkey.

“OUR TIME” – Our adult fellowship, “Our Time,” will resume its gathering on Wednesday, April 19, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. Due to the Holy Week postponement of their regular schedule, there will be an additional gathering this month on Wednesday, April 26. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

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

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

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

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college. Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2023. For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, April 16 Agape Vespers, 12:00 PM

Wednesday, April 19 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1:00-3:00 PM

Saturday, April 22 Robert Alexander Rich Baptism, 11:00 AM

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, April 23 Thomas Sunday

Saturday, April 29 No Great Vespers

Saturday, May 13 Enthronement of Metropolitan SABA

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

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

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

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

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

“Christos Anesti” “Alithos Anesti”

“Christos Voskrese” “Vo Istinu Voskrese”

“Al Maseeh Qam” “Ha’an Qam”

CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, April 9, 2023 - Glorious and Brilliant Entrance of Our Lord Jesus Christ into Jerusalem (Palm Sunday)

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

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

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

His Eminence Most Reverend Metropolitan SABA

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America

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

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

Sunday, April 9, 2023

Glorious and Brilliant Feast of the Entrance

of Our Lord Jesus Christ into Jerusalem (Palm Sunday)

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Entrance Hymn of Palm Sunday

Blessed is He Who cometh in the Name of the Lord: God is the Lord and hath appeared unto us. Save us, O Son of God, Who didst sit upon the foal of an ass; who sing to Thee. Allelluia.

Apolytikion of Righteous Lazarus – Tone 1

O Christ God, when thou didst raise Lazarus from the dead, before thy Passion, thou didst confirm the universal resurrection. Wherefore, we, like babes, carry the insignia of triumph and victory, and cry to thee, O Vanquisher of death, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he that cometh in the Name of the Lord.

Apolytikion of Palm Sunday – Tone 4

O Christ God, when we were buried with thee in Baptism, we became deserving of thy resurrection to immortal life. Wherefore, we praise thee, crying, Hosanna in the highest, blessed is he that cometh in the Name of the Lord.

Kontakion for Palm Sunday – Tone 6

Upborne upon the heavenly throne, and seated upon the earthly foal, O Christ our God, receive the praises of angels and the hymns of men, exclaiming before thee, Blessed is he that cometh to restore Adam.

Epistle – Philippians 4:4-9 (Palm Sunday)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 117.26, 1. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

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

BRETHREN, rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let all men know your forbearance. The Lord is at hand. Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you.

Gospel – John 12:1-18 (Palm Sunday)

SIX DAYS BEFORE THE PASSOVER, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus who had died was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment. But Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, one of his disciples [he who was to betray Jesus], said, “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” This he said, not because he cared for the poor but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box he used to take what was put into it. Jesus said, “Let her alone, let her keep it for the day of my burial. The poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.”

When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came, not only on account of Jesus but also to see Lazarus, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus also to death, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.

The next day a great crowd who had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, the King of Israel!” And Jesus found a young ass and sat upon it; as it is written, “Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on an ass’s colt.”

His disciples did not understand this at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that this had been written of him and had been done to him. The crowd that had been with Jesus when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead bore witness. The reason why the crowd went to meet Jesus was that they heard he had done this sign.

Next week’s homework: Acts 1:1-8 (Great and Holy Pascha)

John 1:1-17 (Great and Holy Pascha)

HOLY WEEK BEGINS THIS EVENING AT 7:00 PM WITH THE BRIDEGROOM MATINS.

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

APRIL 9, 2023 – GLORIOUS AND BRILLIANT ENTRANCE OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST INTO JERUSALEM (PALM SUNDAY)

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, APRIL 9 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Annetta Absey, Robert Coogan, Jr., Mary C. Gehshan, Wilfred Jabara, Lynn Lewis, Victoria and Esber Najjar, Marie Louise Tashji, Adele Triscuizzi, and Isabel Araman Zain. Memory eternal!

The Absey Family offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Annetta Absey. Memory eternal!

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

Irene Tashji offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her mother, the handmaiden of God Marie Louise Tashji. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, APRIL 16 – On Holy Pascha we pray for all “the quick and the dead” of the parish.

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

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the entire year. Additional donors are welcome for April 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), Wade Saadi (Cornell), Rose Zrake (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, Robert Forcina, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Dr. Samir Zamaria (MD) (at home).

FASTING DISCIPLINE – Today, Palm Sunday, fish, wine and oil are permitted. During Great and Holy Week (April 10-15) wine and olive oil are permitted on Holy Thursday (April 13) morning after the Divine Liturgy, and wine is permitted on Holy Saturday (April 15) after the Divine Liturgy. There is no fasting on Holy Pascha (April 16) and throughout Bright Week (April 17-22).

METROPOLITAN SABA – His Eminence, Most Reverend Metropolitan SABA, arrived at Kennedy Airport on Friday afternoon. His Eminence will visit St. Mary’s Church on Holy Friday evening to preside at the celebrations of Orthros with the Lamentations at 7:00 PM. His Eminence will greet the people at a special reception in the fellowship hall following the divine services. All are welcome!

LITURGICAL RESOURCES – Holy Week is here. Our parish Bookstore, dedicated to the memory of Elena Paris, has copies of the service books for Holy Week and Holy Pascha. Please contact Lorraine Deeb at ldeebsped@verizon.net or (718) 491-4996 to reserve your books.

PATRIARCH – Our pledge envelopes for the month of April included a pink envelope marked “Patriarch.” Please use this envelope to support the Metropolitan’s annual appeal on behalf of the Patriarch of Antioch, especially in the wake of the recent earthquake. Our minimum contribution as a parish is $500. If anyone is currently not receiving pledge envelopes, please see Fr. Michael or Parish Council Chair Anthony Zrake.

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

SPECIAL COLLECTION – Last week we prayed for the repose of the soul of a 39-year-old man who now leaves behind a wife and three young daughters. Donors who would like to make a contribution for this family may make checks payable to St. Mary Church with “GK” in the memo line, and the church will accumulate a gift of love.

VIGIL AT THE TOMB OF CHRIST – Teen SOYO has historically sponsored the Vigil at the Tomb of Christ after the Matins of Holy Saturday (on Friday evening) with the Lamentations until the Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great on Holy Saturday morning. Everyone is welcome to participate and to read the Psalms and the Gospel in English and Arabic.

PALM SUNDAY MA-AMOUL SALE – We thank the faithful ladies who labored so lovingly this week to provide ma-amoul for our holiday celebrations. Those who placed an order in advance may pick up their orders today following the Divine Liturgy. There will not be any additional items available today because of the robust pre-sales. The proceeds from this project will go to International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) for their projects in support of the suffering people of Lebanon, Syria and Turkey.

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

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

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

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

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

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

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – Scholarships are available to women 26 years of age or older who are continuing their education in order to improve their circumstances and those of their families. See Fr. Michael, or go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships for applications and more information, or contact Dianne O’Regan, Grant Coordinator, at (512) 930-2671 or doregan@stites.com. Application deadline is June 1, 2023.

FRANCIS MARIA SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Archdiocese awards several scholarships of $5,000 each to students attending an accredited 4-year college. Applications must be postmarked by May 15, 2023. For more information and other scholarships offered by the Archdiocese, go to www.antiochian.org/scholarships.

AXIOS! Third year seminarian Rev. Deacon Joseph Thornburg will be ordained to the Holy Priesthood during the Vesperal Divine Liturgy of Holy Thursday morning at St. Anthony Church in Bergenfield, NJ. Grant grant him, Marina and the children many happy, healthy and fruitful years of service in the Lord’s Vineyard!

“OUR TIME” – Our adult fellowship, “Our Time,” will resume its gathering on Wednesday, April 19, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. Due to the Holy Week postponement of their regular schedule, there will be an additional gathering this month on Wednesday, April 26. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information.

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – It is time to start planning for summer camp! Registration for all programs except Family Camp has opened. Parents, please register your campers as soon as possible. We expect this year to return to normal following the pandemic years. Go to www.avcamp.org to open an account and register. Scholarships are available through Fr. Michael.

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

BOOKSTORE VOLUNTEERS – We are seeking a few volunteers to help with the revitalization of the parish bookstore. If you have a little availability on Sunday, please see Lorraine Deeb.

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

ON-LINE GIVING – St. Mary's Church now accepts donations online. Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or checking account. There is an option to indicate gifts made in honor of or in remembrance of someone.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, April 09 Bridegroom Matins, 7:00 PM

Monday, April 10 Bridegroom Matins, 7:00 PM

Tuesday, April 11 Bridegroom Matins, 7:00 PM

Wednesday, April 12 Sacrament of Holy Unction, 7:00 PM

Thursday, April 13 Vesperal Divine Liturgy (Institution of the Eucharist), 10:00 AM

Matins of Holy Friday with Twelve Gospels, 7:00 PM

Friday, April 14 Royal Hours, 10:00 AM

Great Vespers and Descent from the Cross, 3:00 PM

Matins of Holy Saturday and Lamentations, 7:00 PM

Saturday, April 15 Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great, 10:00 AM

Nocturne, Orthros, Paschal Divine Liturgy, 10:00 PM

Sunday, April 16 Great and Holy Pascha

Agape Vespers, 12:00 PM

April 17-22 Fast Free Week

Wednesday, April 19 “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1:00-3:00 PM

Saturday, April 22 Robert Alexander Rich Baptism, 11:00 AM

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “To seek to learn exactly about the day when the end of the world will come and the Second Advent of Christ will take place does not benefit us as much as to believe that the end is near, that we will die, that after death there is life eternal, that we shall give an account of our deeds, and that each one will either be glorified or disgraced by his works, and that the Second Coming will occur suddenly, as a lightning, and that we must always be ready, as our Lord enjoins.”

- Elder Philotheos Zervakos