Bulletin for Sunday, August 20, 2023 - Leave-taking of the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos

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, August 20, 2023

Eleventh Sunday after Holy Pentecost

Tone 2 and Eothinon 11

Leave-Taking of the Dormition of the Theotokos

Prophet Samuel

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 2

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

Apolytikion of the Dormition of the Theotokos – Tone 1

In thy birth-giving, O Theotokos, thou didst keep and preserve virginity; and in thy falling-asleep thou hast not forsaken the world; for living thou wast translated, being the Mother of Life. Wherefore, by thine intercessions, deliver our souls from death.

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 Dormition of the Theotokos – Tone 2

Verily, the Theotokos, who is ever watchful in intercessions, who is never rejected, neither tomb nor death could control. But being the Mother of Life, he who dwelt in her ever-virgin womb did translate her to life.

Epistle – I Corinthians 9:2-12 (Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 117:14, 18. The Lord is my strength and my song.

Verse. The Lord has chastened me sorely.

BRETHREN, you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.

This is my defense to those who would examine me. Do we not have the right to our food and drink? Do we not have the right to be accompanied by a wife, as the other apostles and the brothers of the Lord and Cephas? Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working for a living? Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard without eating any of its fruit? Who tends a flock without getting some of the milk?

Do I say this on human authority? Does not the law say the same? For it is written in the law of Moses, “You shall not muzzle an ox when it is treading out the grain.” Is it for oxen that God is concerned? Does he not speak entirely for our sake? It was written for our sake, because the plowman should plow in hope and the thresher thresh in hope of a share in the crop. If we have sown spiritual good among you, is it too much if we reap your material benefits? If others share this rightful claim upon you, do not we still more? Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, but we endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ.

Gospel – Matthew 18:23-35 (Eleventh Sunday of Matthew)

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE: “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the reckoning, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents; and as he could not pay, his lord ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Lord, have patience with me, and I will pray you everything.’ And out of pity for him the lord of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. But that same servant, as he went out, came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and seizing him by the throat he said, ‘Pay what you owe.’ So his fellow servant fell down and besought him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.’ He refused and went and put him in prison till he should pay the debt. When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their lord all that had taken place. Then his lord summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you besought me; and should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ And in anger his lord delivered him to the jailers, till he should pay all his debt. So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”

Next week’s homework: I Corinthians 15:1-11 (Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost)

Matthew 19:16-26 (Twelfth Sunday of Matthew)

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

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

AUGUST 20, 2023 – LEAVE-TAKING OF THE FEAST OF THE DORMITION OF THE THEOTOKOS

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

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, AUGUST 20 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nassif K. Arida, Raphael Arida, Laurice and Zakieh Deeb, Dr. Antoine Fernaine, Michael Gehshan, Gabriel Golam, Baheeya Jabara and William Nafash, Dr. Gabriel Jureidini, Irene Karkennny, Judith Kassatly, Rose Marie Sabah, Louise B. Savarese, Gladys Senior, and George S. Zarr, Sr. Memory eternal!

Maria and Rob Absey offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Gladys Senior. Memory eternal!

Sandra and Robert Coogan offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Louise B. Savarese. Memory eternal!

The Deeb Family offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Laurice and Alexander Deeb, Zakieh and Emile Deeb, and Mary and Nadim Antaky. Memory eternal!

Mrs. May Fernaine offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God Dr. Antoine Fernaine. Memory eternal!

June Sabah offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Rose Marie Sabah. Memory eternal!

Linda Gehshan Salamy and daughters Danielle Morris and Janine Mansukhani offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Thomas, Janet, Michael, and Mary Gehshan, and Donald Farkouh. Memory eternal!

The Zarr Family offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul the servant of God, George S. Zarr, Sr., our beloved father. Memory Eternal!

The Family of Gabriel Golam offers 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), Robert Forcina (NYU Lutheran), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Rose Abdallah, Yvonne Allawh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

NEXT SUNDAY, AUGUST 27 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Helen Allison, Khouryee Alice Kerbaway Dalack, Linda S. Fauty, Gabriel Maloof, Agnes Hamwi, and, Watfa Richeh. Memory eternal!

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

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR AUGUST – On Tuesday, August 29, we remember the Beheading of St. John the Baptist with the traditional fasting discipline.

BACKPACK PROJECT – Teen SOYO will once again volunteer to assemble 48 backpacks for underprivileged students in District 20 of the NYC Department of Education in cooperation with FOCUS. The Teens are asking for a donation of $30 to cover the cost of the backpack and supplies. We are currently looking for 22 more sponsors. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “backpacks” in the memo line. The Teens thank you for supporting their community outreach project!

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The annual Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing will take place on Monday, September 18. Please support this major event generously as we have large capital expenditures happening this year. Even if you cannot attend, please consider a sponsorship in the journal. This year we are honoring Sam Kaiami with the Lifetime Achievement Award and Marie Louise Tashji with the Victor Samra, Jr. Memorial Award. See Daria Mayrose for more information.

ESTATE PLANNING – August is National Make-a-Will Month (MAWM). As Christians, our ultimate security in life comes from God and the truth revealed in His word; however, that does not mean we play a passive role in preparing for the future. We are called to be diligent stewards of the time and resources God entrusts to us. Creating a will and estate plan allows us to communicate important financial and healthcare decisions, helping to prepare for whatever the future may hold. A will allows us to provide for our loved ones and steward all the resources God has given us. By including a legacy gift in our wills, we can sustain the ministry of St. Mary’s Church for future generations.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, September 7 Great Vespers with Artoklasia, 7 PM

Friday, September 8 Festal Orthros, 9:30, Divine Liturgy, 10:30 AM

Monday, September 18 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

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

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Beloved Christians, you and your children shall appear at the Judgment of Christ, and you shall give account for them to the just Judge. He will not ask you whether you have taught your children the arts or whether you have taught them to speak French, or German, or Italian, but whether you have taught them to live as Christians ”

- St. Tikhon of Zadonsk

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, August 13, 2023 - Tenth Sunday after 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, August 13, 2023

Tenth Sunday after Holy Pentecost

Tone 1 and Eothinon 10

Leave-Taking of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 1

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

Apolytikion of the Transfiguration – Tone 7

When, O Christ our God, thou was transfigured on the mountain, thou didst reveal thy glory to thy Disciples in proportion as they could bear it. Let thine everlasting light also enlighten us sinners, through the intercessions of the Theotokos, O thou Bestower of light, 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 Transfiguration – Tone 7

Thou wast transfigured on the mount, and thy Disciples, in so far as they were able, beheld thy glory, O Christ our God: so that, when they should see thee crucified, they would remember that thy suffering was voluntary, and could declare to all the world that thou art truly the effulgent Splendour of the Father.

Epistle – I Corinthians 4:9-16 (Tenth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

Verse. Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

BRETHREN, God has exhibited us apostles as last of all, like men sentenced to death; because we have become a spectacle to the world, to angels and to men. We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are held in honor, but we in disrepute. To the present hour we hunger and thirst, we are ill-clad and buffeted and homeless, and we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we try to conciliate; we have become, and are now, as the refuse of the world, the offscouring of all things.

I do not write this to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my beloved children. For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. I urge you, then, be imitators of me.

Gospel – Matthew 17:14-23 (Tenth Sunday after Pentecost)

AT THAT TIME, a man came up to Jesus and kneeling before him said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and he suffers terribly; for often he falls into the fire, and often into the water. And I brought him to your disciples, and they could not heal him.” And Jesus answered, “O faithless and perverse generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him here to me.” And Jesus rebuked him, and the demon came out of him, and the boy was cured instantly. Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” Jesus said to them, “Because you have no faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith, even as a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you. This kind never comes out except by prayer and fasting.”

As they were traveling together through Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him and he will rise on the third day.”

Next week’s homework: I Corinthians 9:2-12 (Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost)

Matthew 18:23-35 (Eleventh Sunday of Matthew)

DORMITION FAST – The final fasting season of the ecclesiastical year, the Fast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, began August 1 and continues until August 14. The fasting period ends with the celebration of the Dormition of the Theotokos on Tuesday, August 15.

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

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

AUGUST 13, 2023 – TENTH SUNDAY AFTER HOLY PENTECOST

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

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, AUGUST 13 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Thuraya Abualehawareb, Stephanie Bittar, Lorice Grasso, Leon and Lillian Hattab, Robert Karkenny, Braheim Merhige, Laya Nehme, Baseem and Valentine Trabulsi, Alex Zagby, and Laila Zamlout. Memory eternal!

Caroline Grasso offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her mother, the handmaiden of God Lorice Grasso. Memory eternal!

Razan Al-Khouri Maalouf and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Rezkallah Alkhoury. Memory eternal!

Tony Nehme offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Laya Nehme. Memory eternal!

Leila and Raymond Trabulsi offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lillian and Leon Hattab and Baseem and Valentine Trabulsi. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, AUGUST 20 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nassif K. Arida, Raphael Arida, Laurice & Zakieh Deeb, Dr. Antoine Fernaine, Michael Gehshan, Gabriel Golam, Baheeya Jabara, William Nafash, Dr. Gabriel Jureidini, Irene Karkennny, Judith Kassatly, Rose Marie Sabah, Louise B. Savarese, Gladys Senior, and George S. Zarr, Sr. Memory eternal!

Sandra and Robert Coogan will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Louise B. Savarese. Memory eternal!

The Deeb Family will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Laurice and Alexander Deeb, Zakieh and Emile Deeb, and Mary and Nadim Antaky. Memory eternal!

Mrs. May Fernaine will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God Dr. Antoine Fernaine. Memory eternal!

The Zarr Family will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul the servant of God, George S. Zarr, Sr., our beloved father. Memory Eternal!

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

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR AUGUST – The Dormition Fast continues until the feast on August 15. The traditional fasting discipline during this period is no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil and their by-products except for Saturdays and Sundays when wine and olive oil are allowed. On August 29, we remember the Beheading of St. John the Baptist with the traditional fasting discipline.

FEAST OF THE DORMITION OF THE THEOTOKOS – We will celebrate an Evening Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos tomorrow, August 14, at 7:00 PM. If you plan to receive Holy Communion, please begin your fast after an early and light lunch.

BACKPACK PROJECT – Teen SOYO will once again volunteer to assemble 48 backpacks for underprivileged students in District 20 of the NYC Department of Education in cooperation with FOCUS. The Teens are asking for a donation of $30 to cover the cost of the backpack and supplies. We plan to assemble the backpacks and deliver them to the school in August. Angela Athineos will coordinate the assembly of the backpacks when she returns from Greece. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “backpacks” in the memo line. The Teens thank you for supporting their community outreach project!

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The annual Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing will be on Monday, September 18. Please support this major event generously as we have large capital expenditures happening this year. Even if you cannot attend, please consider a sponsorship in the journal. This year we are honoring Sam Kaiami with the Lifetime Achievement Award and Marie Louise Tashji with the Victor Samara, Jr. Memorial Award.

ESTATE PLANNING – August is National Make-a-Will Month (MAWM). As Christians, our ultimate security in life comes from God and the truth revealed in His word; however, that does not mean we play a passive role in preparing for the future. We are called to be diligent stewards of the time and resources God entrusts to us. Creating a will and estate plan allows us to communicate important financial and healthcare decisions, helping to prepare for whatever the future may hold. A will allows us to provide for our loved ones and steward all the resources God has given us. By including a legacy gift in our wills, we can sustain the ministry of St. Mary’s Church for future generations.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, August 14 Evening Divine Liturgy for the Dormition, 7:00 PM

Tuesday, August 15 Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos

Saturday, August 19 Sip and Decorate Cookies Class, 2-5 PM

Friday, September 8 Nativity of the Theotokos

Monday, September 18 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

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

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

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, August 6, 2023 - TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST

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, August 6, 2023

The Transfiguration of Our Lord Jesus Christ

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.

Second Antiphon

Save us, O Son of God, Who wast transfigured on Mount Tabor, who sing to Thee. Alleluia.

Eisodikon (Entrance Hymn)

For in Thee is the fountain of life, and in Thy light shall we see light. Save us, O Son of God, Who wast transfigured on Mount Tabor, who sing to Thee. Alleluia.

Apolytikion of the Transfiguration – Tone 7

When, O Christ our God, thou was transfigured on the mountain, thou didst reveal thy glory to thy Disciples in proportion as they could bear it. Let thine everlasting light also enlighten us sinners, through the intercessions of the Theotokos, O thou Bestower of light, glory to thee.

Kontakion of the Transfiguration – Tone 7

Thou wast transfigured on the mount, and thy Disciples, in so far as they were able, beheld thy glory, O Christ our God: so that, when they should see thee crucified, they would remember that thy suffering was voluntary, and could declare to all the world that thou art truly the effulgent Splendour of the Father.

Epistle – II Peter 1:10-19 (Holy Transfiguration)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 103.24, 1. O Lord, how magnificent are your works.

Verse. Bless the Lord, O my soul.

BRETHREN, be more zealous to confirm your call and election, for if you do this you will never fall; so there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Therefore I intend always to remind you of these things, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to arouse you by way of reminder, since I know that the putting off of my body will be soon, as our Lord Jesus Christ showed me. And I will see to it that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things.

For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For when he received honor and glory from God the Father and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” we heard this voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain. And we have the prophetic word made more sure. You will do well to pay attention to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

Gospel – Matthew 17:1-9 (Transfiguration of Christ)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain apart. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his garments became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish, I will make three booths here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking, when lo, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces, and were filled with awe. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only.

And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, “Tell no one the vision, until the Son of man is raised from the dead.”

Next week’s homework: I Corinthians 4:9-16 (Tenth Sunday after Pentecost)

Matthew 17:14-23 (Tenth Sunday of Matthew)

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

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

AUGUST 6, 2023 – TRANSFIGURATION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST

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

SUNDAY, AUGUST 6 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Peter and Victoria Boragi, William B. Cury, Alex N. Kalaf, Sr., George J. Kalesh, Victoria Katen, Selma Klele, Salwa Khoury, Itidal Makdissi, LouLou Malouf, Margaret Razook, and Victor Samra, Sr. Memory eternal!

Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Loulou Malouf. Memory eternal!

Razan Al-Khouri Maalouf and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Rezkallah Alkhoury. Memory eternal!

Susan Nelson offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her mother, the handmaiden of God Salway Khoury. Memory eternal!

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Margaret Heckler. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, AUGUST 13 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Thuraya Abualehawareb, Stephanie Bittar, Lorice Grasso, Lillian and Leon Hattab, Robert Karkenny, Braheim Merhige, Laya Nehme, Baseem and Valentine Trabulsi, Alex Zagby, and Laila Zamlout. Memory eternal!

Caroline Grasso will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her mother, the handmaiden of God Lorice Grasso. Memory eternal!

Leila and Raymond Trabulsi will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lillian and Leon Hattab and Baseem and Valentine Trabulsi. Memory eternal!

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

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR AUGUST – The Dormition Fast for the Dormition of the Theotokos began on Tuesday, August 1, and continues until the feast on August 15. The traditional fasting discipline during this period is no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil and their by-products except for Saturdays and Sundays when wine and olive oil are allowed. On the Feast of the Transfiguration (today) fish, wine, and olive oil are allowed. On Tuesday, August 29, we remember the Beheading of St. John the Baptist with the traditional fasting discipline.

AIR CONDITIONING – We will set the A/C at a comfortable temperature, but if you feel the need, please remember to bring a sweater. We cannot adjust the temperature for individual needs.

PARAKLESIS TO THE THEOTOKOS – During the Dormition Fast it is customary to pray a service of supplication to the Mother of God on behalf of the living. We will celebrate the Paraklesis to the Theotokos on Tuesday, August 8, and Thursday, August 10, at 7 PM. Please give the names of the living for whom you want to pray to Fr. Michael.

BACKPACK PROJECT – Teen SOYO will once again volunteer to assemble 48 backpacks for underprivileged students in District 20 of the NYC Department of Education in cooperation with FOCUS. The Teens are asking for a donation of $30 to cover the cost of the backpack and supplies. We plan to assemble the backpacks and deliver them to the school in August. Angela Athineos will coordinate the assembly of the backpacks when she returns from Greece. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “backpacks” in the memo line. The Teens thank you for supporting their community outreach project!

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The invitations to the annual Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing on Monday, September 18, went out in July. Please respond generously to this major event as we have large capital expenditures happening this year. See Daria Mayrose for more information.

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.

DATES TO REMEMBER

August 1-14 Dormition Fast

Sunday, August 6 Feast of the Transfiguration

Tuesday, August 8 Paraklesis to the Theotokos, 7 PM

Thursday, August 10 Paraklesis to the Theotokos, 7 PM

Monday, August 14 Evening Divine Liturgy for the Dormition, 7:00 PM

Tuesday, August 15 Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos

Tuesday, August 29 Beheading of St. John the Baptist

Friday, September 8 Nativity of the Theotokos

Monday, September 18 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

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

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Lift up the eyes of your mind to the light of the Gospel of Transfiguration, that you yourself might be transfigured as your spiritual intellect is made new. If this happens, you will draw down divine rays from on high and will be conformed to the image of the glory of the Lord, whose face shone on the mountain as radiant as the sun.”

- St. Gregory Palamas

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, July 30, 2023 - Eighth Sunday after Pentecost

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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, July 30, 2023

Eighth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 7 and Eothinon 8

Apostles Silas, Silvan, Crescens, Epenetos and Andronikos of the Seventy

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.

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 7

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Transfiguration – Tone 7

Thou wast transfigured on the mount, and thy Disciples, in so far as they were able, beheld thy glory, O Christ our God: so that, when they should see thee crucified, they would remember that thy suffering was voluntary, and could declare to all the world that thou art truly the effulgent Splendour of the Father.

Epistle – I Corinthians 1:10-17 (Eighth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

BRETHREN, I appeal to you by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no dissensions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brethren. What I mean is that each one of you says, “I belong to Paul,” or “I belong to Apollos,” or “I belong to Cephas,” or “I belong to Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispos and Gaius; lest any one should say that you were baptized in my name. (I did baptize also the household of Stephanas. Beyond that, I do not know whether I baptized any one else.) For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.

Gospel – Matthew 14:14-22 (Eighth Sunday of Matthew)

AT THAT TIME, when Jesus went ashore he saw a great throng; and he had compassion on them, and healed their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a lonely place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.” Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” They said to him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” And Jesus said, “Bring them here to me.” Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass; and taking the five loaves and the two fish he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.

Then Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go before them to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds.

Next week’s homework: II Peter 1:10-19 (Transfiguration of Christ)

Matthew 17:1-9 (Transfiguration of Christ)

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.”

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.

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

JULY 30, 2023 – EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

SUNDAY, JULY 30 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lily Lang and George Sabbagh. Memory eternal!

Razan Al-Khouri Maalouf and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Rezkallah Alkhoury of Grove City, OH. Memory eternal!

Paul Lang offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his wife, the handmaiden of God, Lily Lang. Memory eternal!

This morning as Fr. Michael is returning from the Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ, Deacon Farid Farkouh will preside at the Typica Service.

NEXT SUNDAY, AUGUST 6 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Peter and Victoria Boragi, William B. Cury, Agnes Hamwi, Alex N. Kalaf, Sr., George J. Kalesh, Victoria Katen, Selma Klele, Salwa Khoury, Itidal Makdissi, LouLou Malouf, Margaret Razook, and Victor Samra, Sr. Memory eternal!

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

DORMITION FAST – The final fasting season of the ecclesiastical year, the Fast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, begins August 1 and continues until August 14. The fasting period ends with the celebration of the Dormition of the Theotokos on Tuesday, August 15.

FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATION – The Feast of the Transfiguration of Christ is next Sunday, August 6. Donors are welcome to offer the grapes and seasonal fruits for blessing at the end of the Divine Liturgy.

BACKPACK PROJECT – Teen SOYO will once again volunteer to assemble 48 backpacks for underprivileged students in District 20 of the NYC Department of Education in cooperation with FOCUS. The Teens are asking for a donation of $30 to cover the cost of the backpack and supplies. We plan to assemble the backpacks and deliver them to the school in August. Angela Athineos will coordinate the assembly of the backpacks when she returns from Greece. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “backpacks” in the memo line. The Teens thank you for supporting their community outreach project!

AIR CONDITIONING – We will set the A/C at a comfortable temperature, but if you feel the need, please remember to bring a sweater. We cannot adjust the temperature for individual needs.

ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN PRISON MINISTRY – Today is Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry Sunday as established by the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States. Please see the flyer in this bulletin for a summary of what this ministry does. To support this ministry, make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church with “OCPM” in the memo line.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The invitations to the annual Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing on Monday, September 18, went out last week. Please respond generously to this major event as we have large capital expenditures happening this year. Even if you cannot attend, please consider a sponsorship in the journal. This year we are honoring Sam Kaiami with the Lifetime Achievement Award and Marie Louise Tashji with the Victor Samara Memorial Award. See Daria Mayrose for more information.

PRAYER FOR TRAVEL – O Lord Jesus Christ our God, the true and living Way, who didst will to journey with thy supposed father Joseph, and thy most pure Virgin Mother into Egypt, and didst accompany Luke and Cleopas on their way to Emmaus: we now humbly entreat thee, O most holy Master: do thou accompany now this thy servant by thy grace. Send unto me, as to thy servant Tobias, an angel as a guide and guardian, protecting and delivering me from every evil assault of enemies both visible and invisible, directing me to the fulfillment of thy commandments, and sending me on my way peacefully, profitably, and soundly, and bringing me back again safely and in peace. Grant that I may fulfill all my good purpose unto thy good pleasure, and favorably unto thy glory. For thine it is to be merciful and to save us, O Christ our God, and to thee do we send up glory, together with thy Father who is without beginning, and thy most holy, good, and life-giving Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

DATES TO REMEMBER

August 1-14 Dormition Fast

Sunday, August 6 Feast of the Transfiguration

Monday, August 14 Evening Divine Liturgy for the Dormition, 7:00 PM

Tuesday, August 15 Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos

Friday, September 8 Nativity of the Theotokos

Monday, September 18 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

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

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Pride comes in various forms. There is worldly pride: this is knowledge; and there is spiritual pride: this is self-love. This is exactly so: people will truly go insane if they expect their intellect to cope with everything they hope to receive from it. But how can our mind get down to its own business, since it is insignificant and infected? Take from it that which it is able to give, and make no further demand upon it. Our teacher is humility. God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble, and the grace of God is everything. That is your greatest wisdom. Humble yourself and say to yourself, ‘Although I’m a speck of earthly dust, still God cares for me, and may the will of God be done in me.’”

- St. Anatole of Optinat

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, July 23, 2023 - SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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, July 23, 2023

Seventh Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 6 and Eothinon 7

Hieromartyr Phocas, Bishop of Sinope

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.

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 6

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – Romans 15:1-7 (Seventh Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

BRETHREN, we who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves; let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to edify him. For Christ did not please himself; but, as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached thee fell on me.” For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Welcome one another, therefore, as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

Gospel – Matthew 9:27-35 (Seventh Sunday of Matthew)

AT THAT TIME, when Jesus was passing by, two blind men followed him, crying aloud and saying, “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” Then Jesus touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.” And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly charged them, “See that no one knows it.” But they went away and spread his fame through all that district.

As they were going away, behold, a dumb demoniac was brought to Jesus. And when the demon had been cast out, the dumb man spoke; and the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.”

And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every infirmity of the people.

Next week’s homework: I Corinthians 1:10-17 (Eighth Sunday after Pentecost)

Matthew 14:14-22 (Eighth Sunday of Matthew)

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

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.

HOLY BREAD – Donors are welcome for July 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.

JULY 23, 2023 – SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

Both Fr. Michael and Fr. Thomas Zain will attend the Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ, from Monday through Sunday this week. In the event of a pastoral emergency, please Call Deacon Farid Farkouh at (347) 524-7708. Next Sunday, July 30, Deacon Farid will preside at the Typica Service with Holy Communion. Reader’s Orthros will begin at 9:30, and the Typica will begin at 10:30.

SUNDAY, JULY 23 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dewey and Rose Awad, Khourieh Rose Khoury, Georgette and John Shahood, and Laurice Swaya. Memory eternal!

Roberta and Albert Khoury offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Khourieh Rose Khoury. Memory eternal!

Razan Al-Khouri Maalouf and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Rezkallah Alkhoury of Grove City, OH. Memory eternal!

Diane Nassoor Zamaria offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God Dr. Samir Zamaria, who departed this life in Maryland. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 30 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Kenneth Jabara, Lily Lang, and George Sabbagh. Memory eternal!

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

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The invitations to the annual Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing on Monday, September 18, will go out this week. Please respond generously to this major event as we have large capital expenditures happening this year. Even if you cannot attend, please consider a sponsorship in the journal. This year we are honoring Sam Kaiami with the Lifetime Achievement Award and Marie Louise Tashji with the Victor Samara Memorial Award. See Daria Mayrose for more information.

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.

BACKPACK PROJECT – Teen SOYO will once again volunteer to assemble 48 backpacks for underprivileged students in District 20 of the NYC Department of Education in cooperation with FOCUS. The Teens are asking for a donation of $30 to cover the cost of the backpack and supplies. We plan to assemble the backpacks and deliver them to the school in August. Angela Athineos will coordinate the assembly of the backpacks when she returns from Greece. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “backpacks” in the memo line. The Teens thank you for supporting their community outreach project!

ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN PRISON MINISTRY – Next Sunday, July 30, is Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry Sunday as established by the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States. Please see the flyer in this bulletin for a summary of what this ministry does. To support this ministry, make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church with “OCPM” in the memo line.

AIR CONDITIONING – We will set the A/C at a comfortable temperature, but if you feel the need, please remember to bring a sweater. We cannot adjust the temperature for individual needs.

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 – Planning for the future and creating the legacy you wish to leave is one of the most effective ways to ensure a lasting impact and to attest to your spiritual priorities. Making a gift in your will or living trust, known as a bequest, to St. Mary’s Church can guarantee that your legacy endures through generations. Your gift may be a specific dollar amount, a percentage of your estate or the remainder after all other provisions are specified. Invest in your grandchildren, support Christ’s Church, and bear witness to the faith through your will or estate plan.

DATES TO REMEMBER

July 23 – 30 Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ

Sunday, July 30 Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday

August 1-14 Dormition Fast

Sunday, August 6 Feast of the Transfiguration

Monday, August 14 Evening Divine Liturgy for the Dormition, 7:00 PM

Tuesday, August 15 Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos

Friday, September 8 Nativity of the Theotokos

Monday, September 18 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

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

FROM THE FATHERS – A good man does not sell his inner freedom for money, even if he happens to be offered a huge sum. For things belonging to this life are like a dream, and the fantasies of wealth are uncertain and short-lived.”

- St. Anthony the Great

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, July 16, 2023 - SUNDAY OF THE HOLY FATHERS OF THE FOURTH ECUMENICAL COUNCIL

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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, July 16, 2023

Sunday of the Holy Fathers of the Fourth Ecumenical Council

Tone 5 and Eothinon 6

Hieromartyr Ahtenogenes, Bishop of Herakleopolis, and His Ten Disciples

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 5

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

Apolytikion of the Holy Fathers – Tone 8

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – Titus 3:8-15 (Holy Fathers)

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

Verse. Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven.

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

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

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

Grace be with you all. Amen.

Gospel – Matthew 5:14-19 (Holy Fathers)

THE LORD SAID to his disciples, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

“Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”

Next week’s homework: Romans 15:1-7 (Seventh Sunday after Pentecost)

Matthew 9:27-35 (Seventh Sunday of Matthew)

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

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.

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

JULY 16, 2023 –

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, JULY 16 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Donald Abraham Ballan, Very Rev. Fr. Wakeem Dalack, Victor Farkouh, Gloria Saba Galloway, Joseph Imtanios, Josephine A. Khoury, Eissa Makarious Laham, Edmund Nahas, Marguerite Sabah, William Anthony Soued, and George Zrake. Memory eternal!

Razan Al-Khouri Maalouf and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Rezkallah Alkhoury of Grove City, OH. Memory eternal!

Patricia Ballan offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Donald Abraham Ballan. Memory eternal!

The Farkouh Family offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of the handmaidens of God Mary Farkouh and Diana Mansur. Memory eternal!

Marc B. Galloway offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his mother, the handmaiden of God Gloria Saba Galloway. Memory eternal!

Nadia Soued offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God William Anthony Soued. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 23 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dewey and Rose Awad, Khourieh Rose Khoury, Georgette and John Shahood, and Laurice Swaya. Memory eternal!

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

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

CONTINUING EDUCATION – Our “summer semester” of adult and continuing education will conclude on Wednesday, July 19, at 7:00 PM. Our final session will examine the funeral service and the rites surrounding death and burial. 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 participants can join by Zoom at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81144270876?pwd=NUlNK0NUM0tBMTVsZFVyNERieHRudz09.

BACKPACK PROJECT – Teen SOYO will once again volunteer to assemble 48 backpacks for underprivileged students in District 20 of the NYC Department of Education in cooperation with FOCUS. The Teens are asking for a donation of $30 to cover the cost of the backpack and supplies. We plan to assemble the backpacks and deliver them to the school in August. The Teens thank you for supporting their community outreach project!

FAMILY NIGHT – The next Family Night will be this Friday, July 21, from 7-9 PM. Everyone is welcome.

MIDNIGHT RUN – On the third Friday of each month Deacon Farid leads a group to participate in the Midnight Run which distributes food and clothing to the homeless and migrants on the streets of New York City. Volunteers can help in the early evening to prepare food for distribution, or they can make the actual trip a little later. The next Midnight Run will be on Friday, July 21. Please see Deacon Farid to volunteer or for more information.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The invitations to the annual Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing on Monday, September 18, will go out this week. Please respond generously to this major event as we have large capital expenditures happening this year. See Daria Mayrose for more information.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, July 16 Gangone-Bianco Wedding, 2:00 PM

Tuesday, July 18 Orthodoxy on Tap, 8:00 PM (See flyer)

Wednesday, July 19 Continuing Adult Education, 7:00 PM

Friday, July 21 Family Night, 7-9 PM

Midnight Run

July 23 – 30 Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ

August 1-14 Dormition Fast

Sunday, August 6 Feast of the Transfiguration

Friday, September 8 Nativity of the Theotokos

Monday, September 18 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “When you are wronged and your heart and feelings are hardened, do not be distressed, for this has happened providentially; but be glad and reject the thoughts that arise within you, knowing that if they are destroyed at the stage when they are only provocations, their evil consequences will be cut off; whereas if the thoughts persist the evil may be expected to develop.”

- St. Mark the Ascetic

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, July 9, 2023 - FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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, July 9, 2023

Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 4 and Eothinon 5

Hieromartyr Pankratios, Bishop of Taormina in Sicily

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

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – Romans 10:1-10 (Fifth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

Verse. Bless the Lord, O my soul.

BRETHREN, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but it is not enlightened. For, being ignorant of the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law, that every one who has faith may be justified.

Moses writes that the man who practices the righteousness which is based on the law shall live by it. But the righteousness based on faith says, Do not say in your heart, “Who will ascend into heaven?” (that is, to bring Christ down) or “Who will descend into the abyss?” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say? The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart (that is, the word of faith which we preach); because, if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For man believes with his heart and so is justified, and he confesses with his lips and so is saved.

Gospel – Matthew 8:28-34; 9:1 (Fifth Sunday of Matthew)

AT THAT TIME, when Jesus came to the country of the Gergesenes, two demoniacs met him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. And behold, they cried out, “What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” Now a herd of many swine was feeding at some distance from them. And the demons begged him, “If you cast us out, send us away into the herd of swine.” And he said to them, “Go.” So they came out and went into the swine; and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea, and perished in the waters. The herdsmen fled, and going into the city they told everything, and what had happened to the demoniacs. And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus; and when they saw him, they begged him to leave their neighborhood.

And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city.

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

Matthew 8:28-9:1 (Fifth Sunday of Matthew)

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

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.

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

JULY 9, 2023 – FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

SUNDAY, JULY 9 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George Abdelnoor Jr., Mary Farkouh, Amelia Khoury, Victor Makhoul, John Molfino, Edmund Saleeby, Ferris Samara, and Bassem Sukkarieh. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 16 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Donald Abraham Ballan, Very Rev. Fr. Wakeem Dalack, Victor Farkouh, Gloria Saba Galloway, Joseph Imtanios, Josephine A. Khoury, Eissa Makarious Laham, Edmund Nahas, Marguerite Sabah, William Anthony Soued, and George Zrake. Memory eternal!

The Farkouh Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of the handmaidens of God Mary Farkouh and Diana Mansur. Memory eternal!

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

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

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will hold its regular monthly meeting tomorrow, July 10, at 7:00 PM.

CONTINUING EDUCATION – Our “summer semester” of adult and continuing education will meet on Wednesday, July 12, at 7:00 PM. We will use the book Orthodox Christianity, Vol. 5: Sacraments and Other Rites as our text. This week we will address the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. 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 participants can join by Zoom at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87409509323?pwd=RXIzOVJIa3ZqdGpHU1N4UFFhNlBWZz09.

SECOND FRIDAY – An informal group of young adults and married couples will meet with Fr. Michael to discuss issues of current interest. We will meet this Friday, July 14, at 7:30 PM. All are welcome!

FAMILY NIGHT – The next Family Night gathering will be on Friday, July 21, from 7:00-9:00 PM. All are welcome!

MIDNIGHT RUN – On the third Friday of each month Deacon Farid leads a group to participate in the Midnight Run which distributes food and clothing to the homeless and migrants on the streets of New York City. Volunteers can help in the early evening to prepare food for distribution, or they can make the actual trip a little later. The next Midnight Run will be on Friday, July 21. Please see Deacon Farid to volunteer or for more information.

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.

AIR CONDITIONING – We will set the A/C at a comfortable temperature, but if you feel the need, please remember to bring a sweater. We cannot adjust the temperature for individual needs.

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 – Planning for the future and creating the legacy you wish to leave is one of the most effective ways to ensure a lasting impact and to attest to your spiritual priorities. Making a gift in your will or living trust, known as a bequest, to St. Mary’s Church can guarantee that your legacy endures through generations. Your gift may be a specific dollar amount, a percentage of your estate, or the remainder after all other provisions are specified. Invest in your grandchildren, support Christ’s Church, and bear witness to the faith through your will or estate plan.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, July 10 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Wednesday, July 12 Adult Education, 7:00 PM

Friday, July 14 Second Friday Discussion Group, 7:30 PM

Friday, July 21 Family Night, 7-9 PM

Midnight Run

July 23 – 30 Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ

August 1-14 Dormition Fast

Sunday, August 6 Feast of the Transfiguration

Friday, September 8 Nativity of the Theotokos

Monday, September 18 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Imagination is like a multiform and many-head monster similar to the mythical Daedalos and Hydra, which the devil utilizes as a sort of bridge, as the saints have previously noted. These murderous villains communicate and unite themselves with the soul, making it into a hive of parasites, a place of passionate and fruitless thoughts.”

- St. Kallistos

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, July 2, 2023 - PLACING OF THE ROBE OF THE THEOTOKOS IN BLACHERNAE

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, July 2, 2023

Placing of the Robe of the Theotokos in Blachernae

Tone 3 and Eothinon 4

Archbishop John Maximovitch of Shanghai and San Francisco

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 3

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

Apolytikion of the Placing of the Robe of the Theotokos in Blachernae - Tone 8

Thou hast bestowed upon thy city, O ever-virgin Theotokos and shelter of mankind, the robe and the belt of thy pure body, as a secure mantle, which by thy seedless birth-giving have remained without corruption; for by thee are nature and time regenerated. Wherefore, we implore thee to grant thy city safety, and 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 for the Placing of the Robe of the Theotokos in Blachernae - Tone 4

O godly shelter that dost cover all mankind, the sacred robe that covered thy sacred body hast thou bestowed on all the faithful graciously, O pure Virgin, as a robe of divine incorruption. As we celebrate with love its august deposition, we cry to thee with faith, O graced of God: Rejoice, O Lady, thou boast of the Christian race.

Epistle – Hebrews 9:24-28 (Placing of the Robe of the Theotokos)

Prokeimenon. Luke 1:46-48. My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

Verse. For He has regarded the low estate of His handmaiden!

BRETHREN, Christ did not enter into holy places made with hands, which are the antitypes of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear before the face of God on our behalf; nor that He should offer Himself repeatedly, as the high priest enters into the holy place year by year with the blood of others; for then He would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now at the end of the ages He has been manifested once for all to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. And inasmuch as it is appointed for people to die once, and after this comes judgment, so Christ also, having been once offered to bear the sins of many, will be seen a second time, apart from sin, by those who wait for Him for salvation.

Gospel – Matthew 8:5-13 (Fourth Sunday of Matthew)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus entered Capernaum, and a centurion came forward to him, beseeching him and saying, “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, in terrible distress.” And Jesus said to him, “I will come and heal him.” But the centurion answered him, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I am a man under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard him, he marveled, and said to those who were following him, “Truly, I say to you, not even in Israel have I found such faith. I tell you, many will come from east and west and sit at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.” And to the centurion Jesus said, “Go; be it done for you as you have believed.” And the servant was healed at that very moment.

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

Matthew 8:28-9:1 (Fifth Sunday of Matthew)

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

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

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.

JULY 2, 2023 – PLACING OF THE ROBE OF THE THEOTOKOS IN BLACHERNAE

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, JULY 2 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. Fuad Yousef Dirbas, Jamila Eadeh, Michael Eyd and Nora Hamod, Marguerite and Fred Farkouh, Viola Kazan, George T. Lewis, and Georgette Maione. Memory eternal!

Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Pierre Mansur. Memory eternal!

Irene Tashji offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Linda Abdallah. Memory eternal!

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

NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 9 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God George Abdelnoor Jr., Mary Farkouh, Amelia Khoury, Victor Makhoul, John Molfino, Edmund Saleeby, Ferris Samara, and Bassem Sukkarieh. Memory eternal!

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

CONTINUING EDUCTION – Our “summer semester” of adult and continuing education will meet on Wednesday, July 5, at 7:00 PM. We will use the book Orthodox Christianity, Vol. 5: Sacraments and Other Rites as our text. This week we will focus on the Sacrament of Confession/Reconciliation. Please see Lorraine Deeb at the parish bookstore to order a copy. If you cannot afford the cost, please see Fr. Michael in confidence.

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.

AIR CONDITIONING – We will set the A/C at a comfortable temperature, but if you feel the need, please remember to bring a sweater. We cannot adjust the temperature for individual needs.

BACKPACK PROJECT – Teen SOYO will once again volunteer to assemble 48 backpacks for underprivileged students in District 20 of the NYC Department of Education in cooperation with FOCUS. We will publish the list of items to go into the backpacks on the flyer in next week’s bulletins. We ask our supporters to purchase the items and to bring them to church by Sunday, July 31 so that we can assemble the backpacks and deliver them to the school before the beginning of the academic year. The Teens thank you for supporting their community outreach project!

FAMILY NIGHT –Our next gathering will be on Friday, July 7, at 7:00 PM. All are welcome!

SECOND FRIDAY – On the Second Friday of each month there will be an informal discussion with the pastor concerning contemporary issues of family life. Our next gathering will be on Friday, July 14. All are welcome. Submit your questions or topics to Fr. Michael or Lara Rustom Allaham.

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 – Planning for the future and creating the legacy you wish to leave is one of the most effective ways to ensure a lasting impact and to attest to your spiritual priorities. Making a gift in your will or living trust, known as a bequest, to St. Mary’s Church can guarantee that your legacy endures through generations. Your gift may be a specific dollar amount, a percentage of your estate or the remainder after all other provisions are specified. Invest in your grandchildren, support Christ’s Church, and bear witness to the faith through your will or estate plan.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, July 5 Adult Education, 7:00 PM

Friday, July 7 Family Night, 7-9 PM

Monday, July 10 Parish Council, 7:30 PM

Wednesday, July 12 Adult Education, 7:00 PM

Friday, July 14 Second Friday Discussion Group, 7:30 PM

Sunday, July 16 Gangone-Bianco Wedding, 2:00 PM

July 23 – 30 Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Great is the benefit of book learning, for books point out and teach us the way to repentance, since from the words of books we discover wisdom and temperance. This is the stream, watering the universe, from which springs wisdom. In books is a boundless depth, by them we are comforted in sorrows, and they are a bridle for moderation. If you enter diligently into the books of wisdom, then you shall discover great benefit for your soul. Therefore, the one who reads books converses with God or the saints.”

- St. Nestor the Chronicler of the Kiev Caves

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, June 25, 2023 - THIRD SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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 25, 2023

Third Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 2 and Eothinon 3

Apodosis (Leave-Taking) of the Nativity of the Forerunner

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 2

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

Apolytikion of St. John the Baptist – Tone 4

We who eagerly honor thee are unable, O prophet, Forerunner of the presence of Christ, to extol thee as it is meet to do; for by thy noble and solemn nativity the barrenness of thy mother was undone, and the tongue of thy father was loosened, and to the world was proclaimed the Incarnation of the Son of God.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – Romans 5:1-10 (Third Sunday after Pentecost)

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

Verse. The Lord has chastened me sorely.

BRETHREN, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in our hope of sharing the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit which has been given to us.

While we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Why, one will hardly die for a righteous man – though perhaps for a good man one will dare even to die. But God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we are now justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. Not only so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received our reconciliation.

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

THE LORD SAID, “The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is sound, your whole body will be full of light but if your eye is evil, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.

“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you shall put on. Is not the soul more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of heaven: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his stature? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin; yet I tell you, even Solomon himself in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O men of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the gentiles seek all these things; and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness and all these things shall be yours as well.”

Next week’s homework: Hebrews 9:1-7 (Deposition of the Robe of the Theotokos)

Matthew 8:5-13 (Fourth Sunday of Matthew)

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

JUNE 25, 2023 – THIRD SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

SUNDAY, JUNE 25 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Linda Abdallah, William Assatly Sr., Alice, Edward and Wadiha Baloutine, Mabel Bittar, Angela Boojamra, Nancy Davis, Florence Lewis Dibbs and Lorraine Lewis, Margarete Haddad, Phillip and Mary Hanna, Gloria Jabara, Mae Karram, Maggy Karam, George Massabni, Helen Sahadi, Salvatore Savarese, Marie Sayegh, Margaret Soued, and Adeeba Taweel. Memory eternal!

Maria and Rob Absey offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Marie Sayegh. Memory eternal!

The DeFede and Mayrose Families offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Joanne DeFede. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JULY 2 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. Fuad Yousef Dirbas, Jamila Eadeh, Michael Eyd and Nora Hamod, Marguerite and Fred Farkouh, Viola Kazan, George T. Lewis, and Georgette Maione. Memory eternal!

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

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

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

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

MEMORY ETERNAL! We are saddened to announce that the handmaiden of God Claudette Jabara Hadad departed this life in the hope of the Resurrection on Monday. Her funeral was yesterday here at St. Mary’s Church. We extend our sympathies to her son Henry and his family and her daughter Susan as well as her brother Fred and wife Helen and their family. Memory eternal!

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.

CONTINUING EDUCTION – Our “summer semester” of adult and continuing education will meet on Wednesday, July 5, at 7:00 PM. There will be no class this Wednesday due to the Parish Life Conference. 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.

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.

BACKYARD BARBECUE – Co-Chairs Rima Alsifi Hazem and Chris Athineos thank and acknowledge all of the volunteers and teams responsible for food preparation, serving, barbecuing, packing, set up, and clean up for the June 4 Backyard Barbecue. Your efforts made the event a successful and fun day to remember

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.

ESTATE PLANNING – For the sake of my grandchildren, have I made a provision for St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan?

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

June 28 - July 2 Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

Saturday, July 1 No Great Vespers

Sunday, July 2 Matthew Albishara Baptism, 3:00 PM

Wednesday, July 5 Adult Education, 7:00 PM

Monday, July 10 Parish Council, 7:30 PM

July 23 – 30 Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “We can see both that love for God is begotten from the virtues and that virtues are born of love. For this reason the Lord said at one point in the Gospels, ‘He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me’ (John 14:21), and at another point, ‘He who loves Me will keep My commandments’ (cf. John 14:23).”

- St. Gregory Palamas

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, June 18, 2023 - SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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 18, 2023

Second Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 1 and Eothinon 2

Martyrs Leontios, Hypatios and Theodoulos at Tripoli in Phoenicia

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

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 1

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

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

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

Verse. Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

APOSTLES FAST – Each year the “Apostles Fast” or the “Fast of Saints Peter and Paul” extends from the Monday following All Saints Sunday (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.

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

JUNE 18, 2023 – SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

SUNDAY, JUNE 18 - We 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!

Lara Rostom Allaham offers Prayers of Oblation and a 9-day Memorial for the repose of the soul of her grandfather, the servant of God Abdullah Rostom, who departed this life in Syria. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 25 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Linda Abdallah, William Assatly Sr., Alice, Edward and Wadiha Baloutine, Mabel Bittar, Angela Boojamra, Nancy Davis, Florence Lewis Dibbs, Jamila Eadeh, Lorraine Lewis, Margarete Haddad, Phillip and Mary Hanna, Gloria Jabara, Maggy Karam, Mae Karram, George Massabni, Helen Sahadi, Salvatore Savarese, Marie Sayegh, Margaret Soued, and Adeeba Taweel. Memory eternal!

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

The Defede and Mayrose Families will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Joanne Defede. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Rose Abdallah (NYU Lutheran), Khalil Eid (Hamilton Park), George Khoury (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).

CONTINUING EDUCTION – Our “summer semester” of adult and continuing education will meet on Wednesday, June 21, 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.

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.

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.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The invitations for this year’s Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing on Monday, September 18, at the Hempstead Golf and Country Club will go out soon. This year we will honor Samer Kaiami with our Lifetime Achievement Award, and we will remember Marie Louise Tashji with the Victor J. Samra, Jr. Memorial Award. The deadline for the journal will be August 31. Please see Daria Mayrose for more information.

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.

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.

ESTATE PLANNING – Have I included St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan? Bequests to the Endowment Fund will have a major impact on St. Mary’s Church in the future.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

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

Adult Education, 7:00 PM

Saturday, June 24 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

June 28 - July 2 Parish Life Conference @ Antiochian Village

Sunday, July 2 Albishara Baptism, 3 PM

July 23 – 30 Archdiocese Convention in Phoenix, AZ

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “And when your enemy falls into your hands, do not consider how you can pay him back and let him feel the sharp edge of your tongue before sending him packing; consider rather how you can heal him and restore him to a better frame of mind. Continue to make every effort by both word and deed until your gentleness has overcome his aggressiveness. Nothing has more power than gentleness. As someone has said, ‘A soft word will break bones.’ And what is harder than bone? Well then, even if someone is as hard and inflexible as that, he will be conquered if you treat him gently. There is another saying, ‘A soft answer turns away wrath.’ It is obvious therefore that whether your enemy continues to rage or whether he is reconciled depends much more on you than on him. For it rests with us, not with those who are angry, either to destroy their anger or to inflame it.”

- St. John Chrysostom

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America