Bulletin for Sunday, March 17, 2024 - Sunday of Forgiveness (Cheese Fare)

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, March 17, 2024

Sunday of Forgiveness (Cheese Fare)

Tone 8 and Eothinon 8

Venerable Alexios the “Man of God” and Patrick, Bishop of Armagh and Enlightener of Ireland

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 8

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of Cheese Fare Sunday – Tone 6

O Thou who guidest to wisdom, and givest understanding and intelligence, the instructor of the ignorant, and Helper of the poor, strengthen my heart and grant it understanding, O Master. Give me word, O Word of the Father; for behold, I shall not refrain my lips from crying to thee, O merciful One, have mercy upon me who am fallen.

Epistle – Romans 13:11-14; 14:1-4 (Cheese Fare Sunday)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 46.6, 1. O chant unto our God, chant ye.

Verse. Clap your hands, all ye nations.

BRETHREN, now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk becomingly, as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in chambering and licentiousness, not in strife and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts.

But as for the one who is weak in faith, receive him, but not for disputes over opinions. For one believes he may eat anything; but the weak person eats herbs. Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat, and let not him who does eat judge him who eats; for God has received him. Who are you to be the judge over the servant of a stranger? To his own master he either stands or falls; but he will be made to stand; for God is able to make him stand.

Gospel – Matthew 6:14-21 (Cheese Fare Sunday)

THE LORD SAID, “If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasure in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

Next week’s homework: Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-40 (First Sunday of Lent)

John 1:43-51 (Sunday of Orthodoxy)

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 March 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.

MARCH 17, 2024 – SUNDAY OF FORGIVENESS (CHEESE FARE)

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

MARCH IS WOMEN’S MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

SUNDAY, MARCH 17 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. George B. Cury, Mary Ganim, Mary Hamaty, Gloria L. Harris, Gloria and Edward Jabara Sr., Bikturia Kaba, Maurice Khzam, Violette Shamas Mahab, Nadima and Alfred G. Makhoul, Thomas Russo, Frederick P. Schroeder, Elias Shawah, and. Robert Thabit. Memory eternal!

Mona Thabit of LaJolla, CA, offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her father, the servant of God Robert (Bob) Thabit, Esq. Memory eternal!

Refaat Kabah offers Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God George Kaddour and prayers for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. Vicky Zaher, Monir Kaba, Wajiha Kaba and Afifa Zaher. Memory eternal!

Gale Zarr offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Dr. Robert Haddad. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 24 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Raymonde Alexander, Atina Hanna, Albert Kaidy, Nazem Khoury, Frederick Makhoul, Helen and Michael Nassoor, Abraham and Olga Saba, Edward A. Zraick, and Pamela Zraick Nakleh. Memory eternal!

Marie Bryant will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of her husband, the servant of God Charles Bryant. Memory eternal!

The Ladies of St. Mary’s will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Charles Bryant. Memory eternal!

MARCH IS LADIES MONTH! Our ushers today are Elsa Khzam, Marian Russo, Audrey Sahadi, and Gale Zarr. The Epistle will be read by Audrey Sahadi in English and Nahla Bittar in Arabic. The Ladies will also assist with the distribution of the Holy Eucharist.

FORGIVENESS VESPERS – After the Divine Liturgy, please go to the hall for coffee or water and a bite to eat. During the Coffee Hour there will be a brief presentation about the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC). We will then return to church for the celebration of Forgiveness Vespers with the Rite of Forgiveness.

OCMC SUNDAY – Today is Missions Sunday in the Orthodox Churches in North America. We welcome Dan Christopulos from the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) to address us both at the end of the Divine Liturgy and during the Coffee Hour. We also welcome Mrs. Jeannie Arida from the OCMC Board of Trustees who will have materials available about Orthodox missions.

FASTING DISICIPLINE – Today is the last day we eat eggs, cheese, dairy and their by-products until Holy Pascha. The Great Fast begins tomorrow and continues until our celebration of the Feast of Feasts, Pascha: Our Lord’s Resurrection (May 5). The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, dairy, eggs, fish, wine, olive oil, and their by-products) is observed on all weekdays. On Saturdays and Sundays, wine and olive oil are allowed. On the Great Feast of the Annunciation (Monday, March 25) fish, wine and olive oil are permitted.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Vicky Nahas (MA), Howard Samara (Upper East Side Rehab), Richard Zogob (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, John Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Joyce Katen, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Bob Sahadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

MEMORY ETERNAL! We are deeply saddened to announce that in the hope of the Resurrection the servant of God Dr. Robert Haddad departed this life last Friday. Bob Haddad was one of the great intellectual lights of Antiochian Orthodoxy and a faithful servant of the Archdiocese for many years. He was professor emeritus of Smith College in Northampton, MA, and a former president of the American University of Beirut. We extend our deepest sympathies to his sister, Josette Generale, as well as to his daughters Emily, Josette, and Laila and their families. Memory eternal!

MEMORY ETERNAL! We are deeply saddened to announce that in the hope of the Resurrection the servant of God Paul Lang departed this life on Tuesday. Paul was the widower of the former president of the Ladies of St. Mary’s, Lily Lang. His funeral was in Basking Ridge, NJ, on Friday. We extend our sympathies to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Memory eternal!

SATURDAY OF THE SOULS – There will be a Divine Liturgy for the “Miracle of the Kollyva” and the Saturday of the Souls on Saturday, March 23, at 10:30 AM. Please give the names of your departed loved ones to Fr. Michael.

FEAST OF THE ANNUNCIATION – We will celebrate the Evening Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom at 6:00 PM on Monday, March 25, for the Feast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos. Fr. Thomas Zain and the faithful of St. Nicholas Cathedral will join us.

ORDER OF ST. IGNATIS OF ANTIOCH – The Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch will host a Town Hall Meeting here at St. Mary’s Church on Monday, March 25, following the Evening Divine Liturgy for the Annunciation. A light meal will follow the Divine Liturgy. Mr. Edward Assile, a past president of the Governing Council of the Order and its current Treasurer, will make a presentation about the work of the Order. All current and potential members are welcome and encouraged to attend. Please see the flyer in this bulletin for reservation details.

SEMINARIANS – Our pledge envelopes for the month of March included a blue envelope marked “Seminarians.” Please use this envelope to support the Metropolitan’s annual appeal on behalf of our theological students. Our minimum contribution as a parish is $500. If anyone is currently not receiving pledge envelopes, please see Fr. Michael or Parish Council Chair Anthony Zrake.

LENTEN RESOURCES – Great Lent is here. Our parish Bookstore, dedicated to the memory of Elena Paris, has copies of the service books for Great Lent, including Little Compline with the Akathist Hymn, the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, and Holy Week. There are also a few Lenten cookbooks available. Please contact Lorraine Deeb at ldeebsped@verizon.net or (718) 491-4996 to reserve your books.

FOOD FOR HUNGRY PEOPLE – The traditional FFHP collection boxes are now available in the narthex. Remember the least of Christ’s brethren by depositing your extra change at the end of each day, and return the box on or before Palm Sunday. “The rich man is not one who has much, but one who gives much.” St. John Chrysostom

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

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, March 17 Cheese Fare/Forgiveness Sunday

Monday, March 18 Clean Monday – Great Lent Begins

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

Wednesday, March 20 Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, 6:30 PM

Friday, March 22 Little Compline with Akathist/Madayeh, 6:30 PM

Saturday, March 23 Divine Liturgy of Kollyva & Saturday of the Souls, 10:30 AM

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Monday, March 25 Vesperal Divine Liturgy for the Annunciation, 6:00 PM

Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch Town Hall

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “The amount we give is not judged by the largeness of our gifts but the largeness of our hearts.”

- St. John Chrysostom

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, March 10, 2024 - Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meat Fare)

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, March 10, 2024

Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meat Fare)

Tone 7 and Eothinon 7

Martyr Kondratos of Corinth and His Five Companions

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 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 Meat Fare Sunday – Tone 1

When thou comest, O God, to earth with glory, and all creatures tremble before thee, and the river of fire floweth before the Altar, and the books are opened and sins revealed, deliver me then from that unquenchable fire, and make me worthy to stand at thy right hand, O righteous Judge.

Epistle – I Corinthians 8:8-9:2 (Meat Fare Sunday)

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

Verse. The Lord has chastened me sorely.

BRETHREN, food will not commend us to God. We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do. Only take care lest this liberty of yours somehow become a stumbling block to the weak. For if any one sees you, a man of knowledge, at table in an idol’s temple, might he not be encouraged, if his conscience is weak, to eat food offered to idols? And so by your knowledge this weak man is destroyed, the brother for whom Christ died. Thus, sinning against your brethren and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if food is a cause of my brother’s falling, I will never eat meat, lest I cause my brother to fall.

Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are not you my workmanship in the lord? If to others I am not an apostle, at least I am to you; for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.

Gospel – Matthew 25:31-46 (Meat Fare Sunday)

THE LORD SAID, “When the Son of man comes in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will place the sheep at his right hand, but the goats at the left. Then the King will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, O blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see the hungry and feed thee, or thirsty and give thee drink? And when did we see thee a stranger and welcome thee, or naked and clothe thee? And when did we see thee sick or in prison and visit thee?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.’ Then he will say to those at his left hand, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ Then they also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see thee hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to thee?’ Then he will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it not to one of the least of these, you did it not to me.’ And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

Next week’s homework: Romans 13:11-14:4 (Forgiveness Sunday)

Matthew 6:14-21 (Cheese Fare)

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

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

MARCH 10, 2024 – SUNDAY OF THE LAST JUDGMENT (MEAT FARE)

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

MARCH IS WOMEN’S MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

Today we are privileged and blessed to welcome Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Jeremy Davis to preside at the divine services in the absence of Fr. Michael. Fr. Jeremy is the Protosyngellos of the clergy and Administrative Assistant to Metropolitan SABA at the Antiochian Archdiocese Headquarters in Englewood, NJ.

SUNDAY, MARCH 10 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Eleanor Couri, Salwa Fauty, Laila Nassr, Mary Samara D’Angelico, Areff Samara, Vincent D’Angelico, Robert Samara and Rose Araktingi Samara, and Gloria Sparsidis. Memory eternal!

Raymond, Leila and Joyce Trabulsi offer Prayers of Oblation for the health of the servant of God Dr. Robert Hadad. Many yeas!

NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 17 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. George B. Cury, Mary Ganim, Mary Hamaty, Gloria L. Harris, Gloria and Edward Jabara Sr., Bikturia Kaba, Maurice Khzam, Violette Shamas Mahab, Nadima and Alfred G. Makhoul, Thomas Russo, Frederick P. Schroeder, Elias Shawah and Robert Thabit, Esq. Memory eternal!

Mona Thabit of LaJolla, CA, will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Robert (Bob) Thabit, Esq. Memory eternal!

Refaat Kabah will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God George Kadour and prayers for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. Vicky Zaher, Monir Kaba, Wajiha Kaba and Afifa Zaher. Memory eternal!

Lynette Ganim will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of her mother, the handmaiden of God Mary Ganim at Great Vespers this Saturday, March 16. Memory eternal!

Our Parish Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP of thrice-blessed memory (March 19). Memory eternal!

MARCH IS LADIES MONTH! Our ushers today are Barbara Deeb, Janice Deeb, Samia Keriaky, and Therese Khouri. The Epistle will be read by Angela Athineos in English and Samia Keriaky in Arabic. Leen Zgheib and Razan Maalouf will assist with Holy Communion.

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR MARCH – Today, Meat Fare, is the last day to eat meat and its by-products, and Sunday, March 17, is Cheese Fare, the last day we eat dairy. Great Lent begins on Monday, March 18.

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

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Robert Hadad (ME), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Vicky Nahas (MA), Howard Samara (Upper East Side Rehab), Richard Zogob (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, John Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Joyce Katen, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting elected Bassam Maalouf, Irene Tashji, and Leen Zgheib to three-year terms, and the pastor appointed Nahla Bittar, Rob Sabbagh, and George Trisciuzzi to one-year terms. The new council then re-elected Anthony Zrake as chair and Aline Farkouh as secretary, and elected Rob Sabbagh as vice-chair and Irene Tashji as treasurer. We thank Diana Kaiami, Dianna Kitchen and Daria Mayrose for their outstanding service as they leave the council, as well as Wade Saadi who continues his recovery. Many years!

SEMINARIANS – Our pledge envelopes for the month of March included a blue envelope marked “Seminarians.” Please use this envelope to support the Metropolitan’s annual appeal on behalf of our theological students. Our minimum contribution as a parish is $500. If anyone is currently not receiving pledge envelopes, please see Fr. Michael or Parish Council Chair Anthony Zrake.

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, March 13, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information. In addition, Our Time sponsors Pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM. All players and spectators are welcome.

FAMILY NIGHT AND MIDNIGHT RUN – There will be a Family Night on Friday, March 15, from 7-9 PM, and Deacon Farid will lead our delegation on the Midnight Run into Manhattan to minister to the homeless and the immigrant population. Deacon usually goes to Holy Cross Church around 8 PM to help with the preparation of the food and clothing for distribution, and the group typically leaves around 9 PM for the city. The group returns to Bay Ridge around midnight. Please see Deacon Farid if you wish to participate.

FORGIVENESS SUNDAY AND MISSIONS SUNDAY – Next Sunday, March 17, is both Forgiveness Sunday and Missions Sunday. Dan Christopulos from the Orthodox Christian Missions Center (OCMC) will address us both at the end of the Divine Liturgy and with a brief presentation at the Coffee Hour which OCMC will sponsor. Jeannie Arida, a member of the OCMC Board of Trustees, will also be present to distribute literature. We will then return to the church for Great Vespers and the Rite of Forgiveness to inaugurate Great Lent.

FEAST OF THE ANNUNCIATION – We will celebrate the Evening Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom at 6:00 PM on Monday, March 25, for the Feast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos. Fr. Thomas Zain and the faithful of St. Nicholas Cathedral will join us.

ORDER OF ST. IGNATIS OF ANTIOCH TOWN HALL – The Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch will host a Town Hall Meeting here at St. Mary’s Church on Monday, March 25, following the Evening Divine Liturgy for the Annunciation. A light meal will follow the Divine Liturgy. Mr. Edward Assile, a past president of the Governing Council of the Order and its current Treasurer, will make a presentation about the work of the Order. All current and potential members are encouraged to attend.

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

ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN’S SCHOLARSHIP – The Antiochian Women of North America offer several scholarships each year, usually in the amount of $500 each. Applicants must be women over 26 years of age and in good standing in their home parish. Applicants must be actively involved in their parishes and must be applying for or be registered in an academic or trade program of study. Applicants must also demonstrate financial need. Please see Ladies’ President Sandra Arida or Fr. Michael for an application. The application deadline is June 1, 2024.

ESTATE PLANNING – On this day when we contemplate our standing before the dread judgment seat of Christ, let me ask myself what I can leave in my will or estate plan to the church.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, March 10 Meat Fare Sunday Luncheon

Monday, March 11 Parish Council, 7 PM

Wednesday, March 13 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Friday, March 15 Family Night, 7-9 PM and Midnight Run

Saturday, March 16 Great Vespers, 5 PM

One-Year Memorial – Mary Ganim

Sunday, March 17 Cheese Fare/Forgiveness Sunday/Missions Sunday

Monday, March 18 Clean Monday – Great Lent Begins

Great Compline @ St. Nicholas Cathedral, 7 PM

Wednesday, March 20 Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, 6:30 PM

Friday, March 22 First Little Compline/Akathist/Madayeh, 6:30 PM

Monday, March 25 Evening Divine Liturgy for the Annunciation, 6:00 PM

Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch Town Hall, 7:15 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “The fire which man will experience in the next life will be different from the fire of the present life. The fire of this life is extinguished in various ways, whereas the fire of the next life remains unextinguished.”

- St. Gregory of Nyssa

Bulletin for Sunday, March 3, 2024 - Sunday of the Prodigal Son

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, March 3, 2024

Sunday of the Prodigal Son

Tone 6 and Eothinon 6

Martyrs Eutropios, Kleonikos, and Basilikos of Amasea

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 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 Prodigal Son – Tone 3

When I disobeyed in ignorance thy fatherly glory, I wasted in iniquities the riches that thou gavest me. Wherefore, I cry to thee with the voice of the prodigal son, saying, I have sinned before thee, O compassionate Father, receive me repentant, and make me as one of thy hired servants.

Epistle – I Corinthians 6:12-20 (Prodigal Son)

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

Verse. Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

BRETHREN, “All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be enslaved by anything. “Food is meant for the stomach and the stomach for food” – and God will destroy both one and the other. The body is not meant for immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. And God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power. Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I therefore take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who joins himself to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, “The two shall become one flesh.” But he who is united to the Lord becomes one spirit with him. Shun immorality. Every other sin which a man commits is outside the body; but the immoral man sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body and in your spirit which belong to God.

Gospel – Luke 15:11-32 (Prodigal Son)

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE: “There was a man who had two sons; and the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that falls to me.’ And he divided his living between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took his journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in loose living. And when he had spent everything, a great famine arose in that country, and he began to be in want. So he went and joined himself to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would gladly have fed on the pods that the swine ate; and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me as one of your hired servants.” And he arose and came to his father. But while he was yet at a distance, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to make merry.

Now his elder son was in the field; and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what this meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him safe and sound.’ But the son was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Lo, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command; yet you never gave me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your living with harlots, you killed for him the fatted calf!’ And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to make merry and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost and is found.’”

Next week’s homework: I Corinthians 8:8-9-2 (Last Judgment)

Matthew 25:31-46 (Meat Fare)

MARCH 3, 2024 – SUNDAY OF THE PRODIGAL SON

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

MARCH IS WOMEN’S MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

SUNDAY, MARCH 3 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Yvonne Absey, Najibi Anthony, Ronald J. Couri, Nicholas Ghiz, William Haddad, Sr., Mounir Kaba, Robert Sabbagh, Laurice Merhige Schuh, and Marie Zarr. Memory eternal!

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

Anita Absey and Robert Absey offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of their mother, the handmaiden of God Yvonne Absey. Memory eternal!

The Couri Family offers Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Ronald J. Couri. Memory Eternal!

The Zarr Family offers Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of their beloved mother and grandmother, Marie Zarr. Memory Eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 10 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Eleanor Couri, Salwa Fauty, Laila Nassr, Mary Samara D’Angelico, Areff Samara, Vincent D’Angelico, Robert Samara and Rose Araktingi Samara, Gloria Sparsidis, and Robert William Thabit. Memory eternal!

Marie Bryant, Laura, James, Luke and Oliver Wallace will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Laila Nassr. Memory eternal

MARCH IS LADIES MONTH! Our ushers today are Joan Bacon, Marianne Hindelly, Linda Mantia, and Marilyn Tulaney. The Epistle will be read by Karen Spolar in English and Sonia Abou-Naoum in Arabic.

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

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Robert Hadad (ME), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Vicky Nahas (MA), Howard Samara (Upper East Side Rehab), Richard Zogob (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, John Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Joyce Katen, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting will take place today following the Divine Liturgy. Please register with the secretary in order to receive your ballot. Teen SOYO will offer a light lunch at a minimal cost underwritten by Gale Zarr in loving memory of her mother, Marie Zarr.

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR MARCH – This week we fast on Wednesday and Friday. Next Sunday, Meat Fare, is the last day to eat meat and its by-products, and Sunday, March 17, is Cheese Fare, the last day we eat dairy. Great Lent begins on Monday, March 18.

SEMINARIANS – Our pledge envelopes for the month of March included a blue envelope marked “Seminarians.” Please use this envelope to support the Metropolitan’s annual appeal on behalf of our theological students. Our minimum contribution as a parish is $500. If anyone is currently not receiving pledge envelopes, please see Fr. Michael or Parish Council Chair Anthony Zrake.

BLESSING OF HOMES – Please see the flyer in this bulletin to request a home blessing prior to the beginning of Great Lent on Monday, March 18. The pastor will also bless homes following Holy Pascha.

PARKING – We ask our faithful parishioners to reserve the limited parking spaces directly in front of the church for our senior members and for those with mobility issues. Thank you for your cooperation!

ESTATE PLANNING – The Prodigal Son squandered his inheritance in loose living. Can I dedicate a portion of my inheritance to the church through my will or estate plan to promote righteous living?

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, March 10 Meat Fare Sunday

Monday, March 11 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Friday, March 15 Family Night, 7-9 PM, and Midnight Run

Saturday, March 16 Great Vespers, 5 PM

One-Year Memorial – Mary Ganim

Sunday, March 17 Cheese Fare/Forgiveness Sunday

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “For this is the work of the Father’s loving-kindness and goodness, that not only should He make him alive from the dead, but that He should render His grace illustrious through the Spirit. Therefore, instead of corruption, He clothes him with an incorruptible garment; instead of hunger, He kills the fatted calf; instead of far journeys, [the Father] watched for his return, providing shoes for his feet; and, what is most wonderful, placed a divine signet ring upon his hand; while by all these things He begot him afresh in the image of the glory of Christ. These are the gracious gifts of the Father, by which the Lord honors and nourishes those who abide with Him, and also those who return to Him and repent.”

- St, Athanasius the Great

Bulletin for Sunday, February 25, 2024 - Sunday of the Pharisee and Publican

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, February 25, 2024

Sunday of the Pharisee and Publican

Tone 5 and Eothinon 5

Tarasios the Confessor, Archbishop of Constantinople

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

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 5

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Pharisee and the Publican – Tone 4

Let us run away from the words of the boastful Pharisee, and learn the humility of the publican, crying with sighs to the Saviour, Have mercy upon us, O thou alone of true reconciliation.

Epistle – II Timothy 3:10-15 (Pharisee and Publican)

Prokeimenon. Psalm 75.11, 1. Make your vows to the Lord our God and perform them.

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

TIMOTHY, my son, you have observed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, my persecutions, my sufferings, what befell me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra, what persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me. Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men and imposters will go on from bad to worse, deceivers and deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings which are able to instruct you for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

Gospel – Luke 18:10-14 (Pharisee and Publican)

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank thee that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Next week’s homework: I Corinthians 6:12-20 (Prodigal Son)

Luke 15:11-32 (Prodigal Son)

Today we are privileged and blessed to welcome Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Jeremy Davis to preside at the divine services in the absence of Fr. Michael. Fr. Jeremy is the Protosyngellos of the Archdiocese and Administrative Assistant to Metropolitan SABA at the Antiochian Archdiocese Headquarters in Englewood, NJ.

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR FEBRUARY– There is no fasting the week of the Pharisee and Publican (February 25-March 2).

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 March and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

BLESSING OF HOMES – Please see the flyer in this bulletin to request a home blessing.

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

FEBRUARY 25, 2024 – SUNDAY OF THE PHARISEE AND PUBLICAN

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

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Thomas Abdallah, Margaret and Charles Assatly, Wadie Jabbour, Rt. Rev. Ananias Kassab and George Kassab, Lilly Malouf, and Wendy Sadaka Zavolas. Memory eternal!

Rhonda Byrnes offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her parents, the servants of God Margaret and Charles Assatly. A Coffee Hour in their memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, MARCH 3 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Yvonne Absey, Najibi Anthony, Ronald J. Couri, Nicholas Ghiz, William Haddad, Sr., Mounir Kaba, Robert Sabbagh, Laurice Merhige Schuh, and Marie Zarr. Memory eternal!

Anita Absey and Robert Absey will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of their mother, the handmaiden of God Yvonne Absey. Memory eternal!

The Zarr Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of their beloved mother and grandmother, Marie Zarr. 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, Dr. Robert Hadad (ME), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Howard Samara (Upper East Side Rehab), Richard Zogob (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, John Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Joyce Katen, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

OUTREACH CENTER – The Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Center will hold a fundraising event at Cebu on Monday, February 26, from 6-9 PM. Please see the flyer in this bulletin for more information.

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, February 28, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information. In addition, Our Time sponsors Pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM. All players and spectators are welcome.

TEEN SOYO – Teen SOYO will attend Great Vespers next Saturday, March 2, before hosting a Black and Purple Neon Party featuring a Karaoke Night. All teens 12 and up are welcome to attend. Please see the flyer in this bulletin for more information.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting will take place next Sunday, March 3, following the Divine Liturgy. Please submit your nominations for the Parish Council to Vice Chair Dianna Russo Kitchen after securing the nominee’s willingness to serve. Teen SOYO will offer a light lunch at a minimal cost underwritten by Gale Zarr in loving memory of her mother, Marie Zarr.

PARKING – We ask our faithful parishioners to reserve the limited parking spaces directly in front of the church for our senior members and for those with mobility issues. Thank you for your cooperation!

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – Registration for Summer Camp has opened. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish.

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 – Everyone who has children should make provision for them in the event of a calamity through a will or estate plan. That plan should also provide for the spiritual welfare of the children by including something for the long-term stability and ministry of the church.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, February 28 “Our Time” Senior Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Saturday, March 2 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Teen Glow-in-the-Dark Karaoke Party

Sunday, March 3 Annual Parish Meeting

Saturday, March 9 No Great Vespers

Sunday, March 10 Meat Fare Sunday

Monday, March 11 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Sunday, March 17 Cheese Fare/Forgiveness Sunday

Monday, March 18 Clean Monday – Great Lent Begins

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

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “There must be an inner contrition with sincere repentance, in order for a person to be corrected. This is why St. Mark the Ascetic says, ‘If one does not feel contrition commensurate to his fault, he will easily fall into the same fault again.’ In other words, if the mistake is minor, the repentance can also be less severe; but if the mistake is major, then more severe repentance is required. When people do not grasp the severity of their sins and do not experience grief ‘commensurate to their fault,’ then they can easily fall into the same – or even greater -- fault.”

- Elder Paisios of Mount Athos

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, February 18, 2024 - Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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, February 18, 2024

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 4 and Eothinon 4

Leo the Great, Pope of Rome

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

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

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

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

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

AT THAT TIME, Jesus went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and cried, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon.” But Jesus did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying after us.” Jesus answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.” And Jesus answered, “It is not fair to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” Then Jesus answered her, “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed at that very hour.

Next week’s homework: II Timothy 3:10-15 (Pharisee and Publican)

Luke 18:10-14 (Pharisee and Publican)

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR FEBRUARY– The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their byproducts) is observed on all Wednesdays and Fridays in February. There is no fasting the week of the Pharisee and Publican (February 25-March 2).

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 February and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

BLESSING OF HOMES – Please see the flyer in this bulletin to request a home blessing.

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

FEBRUARY 18, 2024 – SEVENTEENTH 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, FEBRUARY 18 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Mary Alexander, Almaza Allawh, Margaret Fiani Dib, Malak Karkenny, Renges Orfaly, and Alice Puccariella. Memory eternal!

Lisa Karkenny offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her parents, the servants of God Violet and Malak Karkenny. Memory eternal!

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

NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Thomas Abdallah, Margaret and Charles Assatly, Wadie Jabbour, Rt. Rev. Ananias Kassab and George Kassab, Lilly Malouf, and Wendy Sadaka Zavolas. Memory eternal!

Rhonda Byrnes will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her parents, the servants of God Margaret and Charles Assatly. A Coffee Hour in their memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Richard Zogob (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, John Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Joyce Katen, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Howard Samara, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, February 28, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information. In addition, Our Time sponsors Pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM. All players and spectators are welcome.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting will take place on Sunday, March 3, following the Divine Liturgy. Please submit your nominations for the Parish Council to Vice Chair Dianna Russo Kitchen after securing the nominee’s willingness to serve.

PARKING – We ask our faithful parishioners to reserve the limited parking spaces directly in front of the church for our senior members and for those with mobility issues. Thank you for your cooperation!

GREAT VESPERS – Fr. Michael will be out of town for a wedding this weekend, so there will be no Great Vespers on Saturday, February 24. We will resume as usual next week. Fr. Jeremy Davis will celebrate next Sunday’s Orthros and Divine Liturgy.

TEEN SOYO – Teen SOYO will attend Great Vespers next Saturday, March 2, before hosting a Black and Purple Neon Party featuring a Karaoke Night. All teens 12 and up are welcome to attend. Please see the flyer in this bulletin for more information.

OUTREACH CENTER – The Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Center will hold a fundraising event at Cebu on Monday, February 26, from 6-9 PM. Please see the flyer in this bulletin for more information.

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – Registration for Summer Camp has opened. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish.

PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – Registration is now open for this year’s Parish Life Conference at the Antiochian Village Heritage and Learning Center in Ligonier, PA. To register go to https://antiochianevents.com/ny. Please make your room reservation as soon as possible because space is limited at the Center.

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 – I wonder if I’ll get a tax refund this year? If I do, should I dedicate part of that refund to the future ministry of the parish by giving it to the Endowment Fund?

DATES TO REMEMBER

Saturday, February 24 No Great Vespers

Monday, February 26 Outreach Center Fundraiser at Cebu, 6-9 PM

Saturday, March 2 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Teen SOYO Glow-in-the-Dark Karaoke Party

Sunday, March 3 Annual Parish Meeting

Sunday, March 10 Meat Fare Sunday

Monday, March 11 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Sunday, March 17 Cheese Fare/Forgiveness Sunday

Monday, March 18 Clean Monday – Great Lent Begins

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Short and fleeting are the joys of this world’s pleasures which endeavors to turn aside from the path of life those who are called to eternity. The faithful and religious spirit, therefore, must desire the things which are heavenly, and being eager for the divine promises, lift itself to the love of the incorruptible Good and the hope of the true Light.”

- St. Leo the Great

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, February 11, 2024 - Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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, February 11, 2024

Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 3 and Eothinon 3

Hieromartyr Blaise, Bishop of Sebastia, and His Companions

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 St. Blaise – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

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

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

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

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

Gospel – Matthew 25:14-30 (Sixteenth Sunday of Matthew)

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE: “A man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted to them his property; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them; and he made five talents more. So also, he who had the two talents made two talents more. But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money. Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have made five talents more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.’ And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here I have made two talents more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.’ He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not winnow; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.’ But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sowed, and gather where I have not winnowed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has the ten talents. For to every one who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.’”

As he said this, he called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

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

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

FEBRUARY 11, 2024 – SIXTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

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

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. William and Hend Arida, David Bittar, Elias Darzi, George Ganim, Jacob Khoury, Emily Nassour, George Sabah, and Louis Sabah. Memory eternal!

Dr. Kenneth and Jeannie Arida offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. William and Hend Arida. A Coffee Hour in their memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

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

Lisa Hurter offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert, Mabel, Stephanie, and Dr. David Bittar. Memory eternal!

Susan Nelson offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her father, the servant of God Louis Sabah. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Mary Alexander, Almaza Allawh, Margaret Fiani Dib, Malak Karkenny, Renges Orfaly, and Alice Puccariella. Memory eternal!

Lisa Karkenny will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of her parents, the servants of God Violet and Malak Karkenny. Memory eternal!

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

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR FEBRUARY– The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their byproducts) is observed on all Wednesdays and Fridays in January. There is no fasting the week of the Pharisee and Publican (February 25-March 2).

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will hold its final monthly meeting before the Annual Parish Meeting tomorrow, February 12, at 7:00 PM.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Richard Zogob (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, John Eyd, Alice Farkouh, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

MEMORY ETERNAL! We are saddened to announce that the servant of God Henry J. Wardi, Esq., 94, departed this life in Florida last Sunday in the hope of the Resurrection. Services will be on February 25 in Hollywood, FL. We extend our sympathies to his niece, Lori Anne Wardi.

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

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, February 14, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information. In addition, Our Time sponsors Pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM. All players and spectators are welcome.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting will take place on Sunday, March 3, following the Divine Liturgy. Please submit your nominations for the Parish Council to Vice Chair Dianna Russo Kitchen after securing the nominee’s willingness to serve.

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – Registration for Summer Camp has opened. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish. We welcome donations to the Pastor’s Discretionary Fund to help send our children to the Antiochian Village Camp.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, February 11 Super Bowl Watch Party, 5-10 PM

Monday, February 12 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Wednesday, February 14 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Friday, February 16 Family Night, 7- 9 PM & Midnight Run

Saturday, February17 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Monday, February 26 Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Fundraiser at Cebu, 6-9 PM

Saturday, March 2 Teen SOYO Karaoke Glow in the Dark Party after Vespers

Sunday, March 3 Annual Parish Meeting

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Nothing contributes to a virtuous and moral way of life as does the time you spend here in church. The time we spend here in church is the basis of every blessing.”

- St. John Chrysostom

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, February 4, 2024 - Thirty-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, February 4, 2024

Thirty-Second Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 2 and Eothinon 2

After-Feast of the Presentation (Meeting) of Christ

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 Presentation of Christ into the Temple – Tone 1

Rejoice, O Virgin Theotokos, full of grace, for from thee arose the Sun of justice, Christ our God, lighting those who are in darkness. Rejoice and be glad, O righteous old man, carrying in thine arms the Deliverer of our souls, who granteth us resurrection.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

Epistle – I Timothy 4:9-15 (Thirty-Second 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.

TIMOTHY, my son, the saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe.

Command and teach these things. Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Till I come, attend to the public reading of scripture, to preaching, to teaching. Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophetic utterance when the council of elders laid their hands upon you. Practice these duties, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress.

Gospel – Luke 19:1-10 (Fifteenth Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Jesus, for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today.” So he made haste and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it they all murmured, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it fourfold.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Next week’s homework: II Corinthians 6:1-10 (16th Sunday after Pentecost)

Matthew 25:14-30 (Sixteenth Sunday of Matthew)

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.

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR FEBRUARY– The traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil or their byproducts) is observed on all Wednesdays and Fridays in January. There is no fasting the week of the Pharisee and Publican (February 25-March 2).

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.”

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

FEBRUARY 4, 2024 – THIRTY-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, FEBRUARY 4 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Elaine Ateyeh, Lila Zayat Ara, Louis Assatly, Shamseh M. Dalack, Norman Alfred Galloway, and Violet Karkenny. Memory eternal!

Marc Galloway offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his father, the servant of God Norman Alfred Galloway. Memory eternal!

The Ghattas Family offers Prayers of Oblation and a 9-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Girgis (George) Ghattas who departed this life in Syria. Memory eternal!

Elias Hazem and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of his brother, the servant of God Issa Hazem. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. William and Hend Arida, David Bittar, Elias Darzi, George Ganim, Emileen Hanna, Jacob Khoury, Emily Nassoor, George Sabah, and Louis Sabah. Memory eternal!

Dr. Kenneth and Jeannie Arida will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. William and Hend Arida. A Coffee Hour in their memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

Peter Elkas will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his aunt, the handmaiden of God Emily Nassour. Memory eternal!

Lisa Hurter will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert, Mabel, Stephanie, and Dr. David Bittar. Memory eternal!

Susan Nelson will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her father, the servant of God Louis Sabah. Memory eternal!

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

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

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, John Eyd (Jewish Home, Freehold), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Richard Zogob (Norwegian), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Alice Farkouh, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S – The Ladies will hold their first meeting of the year following the Divine Liturgy. All women of the parish are welcome and encouraged to participate.

SOUPER BOWL SUNDAY – Teen SOYO invites everyone to support their Souper Bowl Sunday project by bringing one canned good and one dollar next Sunday. We will distribute the food locally, and the monetary donation will support the work of IOCC in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon.

SUPER BOWL WATCH PARTY – Please see the flyer in this bulletin about the Super Bowl Watch Party next Sunday, February 11, in the Church Hall. Please see Sam Maalouf for more information.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting will take place on Sunday, March 3, following the Divine Liturgy. Please submit your nominations for the Parish Council to Vice Chair Dianna Russo Kitchen after securing the nominee’s willingness to serve.

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – The Antiochian Village will host Winter Camp for teens in grades 7-12 on February 16-19. Registration forms for campers and staff are available online at https://avcamp.org/programs/winter-camp/. Also, registration for Summer Camp has opened. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish.

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 – People often say, “If I ever win the lottery, I would take care of the church.” Well, we have already won the lottery – we have received the forgiveness of our sins and the promise of eternal life. So, it’s time to take care of the church!

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, February 8 Pan-Orthodox High School Open House, 6:30 PM

Saturday, February 10 Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, February 11 Super Bowl Watch Party, 5-10 PM

Monday, February 12 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Sunday, March 3 Annual Parish Meeting

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. For His mercy endures forever.”

- Psalm 106:1

Bulletin for Sunday, January 28, 2024 - Thirty-First Sunday after Pentecost

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

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

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

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, January 28, 2024

Thirty-First Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 1 and Eothinon 1

Righteous Father Ephraim the Syrian

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 Saint Ephraim the Syrian – Tone 3

Out of Paradise, a river floweth, flooding all the earth with joy unending, cheering souls with compunction and saving fear: Ephraim, the wine bowl of gladness inspired of God, from all eternity chosen to light the Church with his sacred hymns, his sermons, his shining canticles, whereby he filleth faithful souls with godliness.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

Epistle – I Timothy 1:15-17 (Thirty-First 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.

TIMOTHY, my son, the saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. And I am the foremost of sinners; but I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience for an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. To the King of ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory to the ages of ages. Amen.

Gospel – Luke 18:35-43 (Fourteenth Sunday of Luke)

AT THAT TIME, when Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped, and commanded him to be brought to him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me receive my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.’ And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God.

Next week’s homework: I Timothy 4:9-15 (32nd Sunday after Pentecost)

Luke 19:1-10 (Fifteenth Sunday of Luke)

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.

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

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 February and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

BLESSING OF HOMES – Please see the flyer in this bulletin to request a home blessing.

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

JANUARY 28, 2024 – THIRTY-FIRST 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, JANUARY 28 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Katherine B. Cury, Siham Damalts and Yvonne Sahadi, Josephine Hadad, Marie Meena, Mitchell Merhige and Phillip Merhige, Edgar and Victoria Saadi, Suraya and Samuel Samaha, William Shamoun, and Gail Hall Zarr. Memory eternal!

Rimoun Abouasalie offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Jamal Abouasalie. Memory eternal!

Alice Farkouh offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Katherine B. Cury. Memory eternal!

Edgar G. Saadi of Los Altos, CA, offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his uncle, the servant of God Robert Sabbagh. Memory eternal!

Victor Sahama offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Suraya and Samuel Samaha. Memory eternal!

Nahla Bittar offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of her brother, the servant of God Nabil Bittar. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

Marie and Tony Aflak of Mid-East Bakery offer the Holy Bread of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Nabil Bittar. Memory eternal!

The Ladies of St. Mary’s offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Nabil Bittar. Memory eternal!

The Family of Robert Mackoul offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of his soul. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Elaine Ateyeh, Lila Zayat Ara, Louis Assatly, Shamseh M. Dalack, Norman Alfred Galloway, and Violet Karkenny. Memory eternal!

Marc Galloway will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his father, the servant of God Norman Alfred Galloway. Memory eternal!

Elias Hazem and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of his brother, the servant of God Issa Hazem. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

COFFEE HOUR – Deacon Farid and Aline Farkouh will sponsor today’s Coffee Hour.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Rouda Abboud (SI University), John Eyd (Jewish Home, Freehold), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Anthony Speer (Maimonides), Richard Zogob (SI University), Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Alice Farkouh, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

MEMORY ETERNAL! We are saddened to announce that our former Parish Council Secretary, the servant of God Charles Bryant, departed this life in the hope of the Resurrection on Thursday evening. We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Marie (Nassr), their daughter Laura and James Wallace, and their grandsons Luke and Oliver. As of this writing, visitation details were not finalized.

FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION – We will celebrate a Vesperal Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Presentation of Christ on Thursday, February 1, at 7:00 PM. Communicants will begin the Eucharistic fast after an early and light lunch.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S – The Ladies will hold their first meeting of the year next Sunday, February 4, following the Divine Liturgy. All women of the parish are welcome and encouraged to participate.

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – The Antiochian Village will host Winter Camp for teens in grades 7-12 on February 16-19. Registration forms for campers and staff are available online at https://avcamp.org/programs/winter-camp/. Also, registration for Summer Camp has opened. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting will take place on Sunday, March 3, following the Divine Liturgy. Please submit your nominations for the Parish Council to Vice Chair Dianna Russo Kitchen after securing the nominee’s willingness to serve.

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, January 31, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information. In addition, Our Time sponsors Pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Thursday, February 1 Vesperal Divine Liturgy - Feast of the Presentation, 7 PM

Saturday, February 3 Great Vespers, 5:00

Sunday, February 4 Ladies of St. Mary’s Meeting after services

Thursday, February 8 Pan-Orthodox High School Open House, 6:30 PM

Sunday, February 11 Super Bowl Watch Party, 5-10 PM

Sunday, March 3 Annual Parish Meeting

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “There is joy in heaven over those who are being saved, and Christ, like the father of the prodigal son, makes a feast for his rescued child.”

- St. Gregory of Nyssa

Bulletin for Sunday, January 21, 2024 - Twenty-Ninth 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, January 21, 2024

Twenty-Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 8 and Eothinon 11

Venerable Maximos the Confessor

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 8

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

Apolytikion of Maximos the Confessor – Tone 8

Thou hast shown thyself, O God-inspired Maximos, as a guide to the Orthodox Faith, a teacher of true worship and purity; O star of the universe and companion of the bishops, O wise one. Through thy light thou hast enlightened all, O harp of the Spirit. Therefore, intercede with Christ God to save our souls.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

Epistle – Colossians 3:4-11 (Twenty-Ninth 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, when Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: fornication, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience. In these you once walked, when you lived in them. But now put them all away; anger, wrath, malice, slander, and foul talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old nature with its practices and have put on the new nature, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. Here there cannot be Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free man, but Christ is all, and in all.

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

AT THAT TIME, as Jesus entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When Jesus saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed.

Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice, and fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then said Jesus, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And Jesus said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”

Next week’s homework: I Timothy 1:15-17 (31st Sunday after Pentecost)

Luke 18:35-43 (Fourteenth Sunday of Luke)

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.

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

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 January 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.

JANUARY 21, 2024 – TWENTY-NINTH 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, JANUARY 21 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Absey, Najat Cristo, George Elkas, Rev. Milatios Fiani and Loretta Basilie-Matta Fiani, Claudette Golam, Dr. Douglas George Kalesh, John, Louise, Ned, and Viola Kalesh, Alexander G. Orfaly, Jr., Barbara Salamy, Renate and George Sheheri, Minas Sparsidis, and Thomas Anthony Zarr. Memory eternal!

Peter Elkas offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his father, the servant of God George Elkas. Memory eternal!

George Salamy offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Barbara Salamy. Memory eternal!

The Family of Albert Absey offers Prayers of Oblation, the Holy Bread, and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of his soul. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Katherine B. Cury, Siham Damalts and Yvonne Sahadi, Josephine Hadad, Marie Meena, Mitchell Merhige and Phillip Merhige, Edgar and Victoria Saadi, Suraya and Samuel Samaha, William Shamoun, and Gail Hall Zarr. Memory eternal!

Alice Farkouh will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Katherine B. Cury. Memory eternal!

Victor Sahama will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Suraya and Samuel Samaha. Memory eternal!

Nahla Bittar will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of her brother, the servant of God Nabil Bittar. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

The Ladies of St. Mary’s will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Nabil Bittar. Memory eternal!

The Family of Robert Mackoul will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of his soul. Memory eternal!

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S – The Ladies of St. Mary’s will hold their first meeting of the calendar year on Sunday, February 4, following the Divine Liturgy. All women of the parish are welcome!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Rouda Abboud (SI University), Charlie Bryant (UPenn), John Eyd (Jewish Home, Freehold), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Richard Zogob (Carmel Richmond), Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Alice Farkouh, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

BLESSING OF HOMES – Please see the flyer in this bulletin to request a home blessing.

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

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, January 31, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information. In addition, Our Time sponsors Pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM. All players and spectators are welcome.

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – The Annual Parish Meeting will take place on Sunday, March 3, following the Divine Liturgy. Please submit your nominations for the Parish Council to Vice Chair Dianna Russo Kitchen after securing the nominee’s willingness to serve.

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – The Antiochian Village will host Winter Camp for teens in grades 7-12 on February 16-19. Registration forms for campers and staff are available online at https://avcamp.org/programs/winter-camp/. Also, registration for Summer Camp opened on Sunday, January 7. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish.

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

Saturday, January 27 Great Vespers, 5:00

Saturday, February 3 Powers-Steur Wedding, 1:00 PM

Great Vespers, 5:00 PM

Sunday, February 4 Ladies of St. Mary’s Meeting

Thursday, February 8 Pan-Orthodox High School Open House, 6:30 PM

Sunday, February 11 Super Bowl Watch Party, 5-10 PM

Monday, February 12 Parish Council, 7:00 PM

Sunday, March 3 Annual Parish Meeting

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Do not dishonor your conscience, perfectly instructing you always. Because she suggests to you the divine and angelic opinion, she sets you free from the hidden infections of the heart, and she gives you uprightness before God when you depart.”

- St. Maximus the Confessor

Bulletin for Sunday, January 14, 2024 - LEAVE-TAKING (APODOSIS) OF AND SUNDAY AFTER THEOPHANY

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, January 14, 2024

Leave-Taking (Apodosis) of and Sunday after the Theophany

Holy Fathers Slain at Sinai and Raithu

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 7

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

Apolytikion of Epiphany – Tone 1

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of Epiphany – Tone 4

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

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

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

Verse. Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luke 17:12-29 (Twelfth Sunday of Luke)

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.

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

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

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

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

JANUARY 14, 2024 – LEAVE-TAKING (APODOSIS) OF AND SUNDAY AFTER THEOPHANY

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, JANUARY 14 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Eli Abdallah, Alexander Azar, Emily and Edward Ghazal, Robert Samara, Riad Malouf, Edma Saab, Edmund Arthur Swaya, and Nora Trefz. Memory eternal!

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

Remon Abou Assali and Nihad Almailaa offer Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Jamal Abou Assali who departed this life this week in Syria. Memory eternal!

The Family of Robert Forcina offers Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of his soul. Memory eternal!

Diane Nassoor Zamaria offers Prayers of Oblation and the Holy Bread for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Dr. Samir Zamaria, Widad and Iskander Zamaria, Helen and Michael Nassoor, and all the departed members of the Nassoor and Borgi Families. Memory eternal!

Dr. Iyad Nader and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 40-Day Memorial for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Sarah El Haddad, who departed this life in Syria on December 12. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

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

NEXT SUNDAY, JANUARY 21 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Absey, Najat Cristo, George Elkas, Rev. Milatios and Loretta Fiani, Claudette Golam, John, Louise, Ned, Viola Kalesh and Barbara Salamy, Alexander G. Orfaly, Jr., Renate and George Sheheri, Minas Sparsidis, and Thomas Anthony Zarr. Memory eternal!

Peter Elkas will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of his father, the servant of God George Elkas. Memory eternal!

George Salamy will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Barbara Salamy. Memory eternal!

BLESSING OF HOMES – Please see the flyer in this bulletin to schedule a pastoral home visit for the traditional blessing in the Epiphany season.

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Charlie Bryant (Good Shepherd Rehab, Philadelphia), John Eyd (Jewish Home, Freehold), Nicholas Massab (Norwegian), Richard Zogob (NYU Lutheran), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Alice Farkouh, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, Claudette Teen, Jim Thompson (NJ), George Trisciuzzi, and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

OUR TIME – Our (over 50) senior fellowship, “Our Time”, meets every other Wednesday, including Wednesday, January 17, from 1-3 PM. All are welcome. Please see Marilyn Tulaney for more information. In addition, Our Time sponsors Pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM. All players and spectators are welcome.

FAMILY NIGHT and MIDNIGHT RUN – There will be a Family Night on Friday, January 19, from 7-9 PM, and Deacon Farid will lead our delegation on the Midnight Run at approximately 8 PM. The group usually returns before 1 AM. Please see Deacon Farid for more information.

BOB SABBAGH MEMORIAL LOTTERY – Once again Deacon Farid Farkouh has chaired the former Little Bit ‘o Luck Drawing, now named in memory of Bob Sabbagh. First, second, and third prizes went to Dianna Russo Kitchen, Edgar Saadi of Los Angeles, and Marian Russo, respectively. Congratulations! We’ll see you all next year!

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE CAMP – The Antiochian Village will host Winter Camp for teens in grades 7-12 on February 16-19. Registration forms for campers and staff are available online at https://avcamp.org/programs/winter-camp/. Also, registration for Summer Camp has opened. Please open an account and register at www.avcamp.org. Scholarship assistance is available from the camp and from the parish. Please see Fr. Michael for scholarship information.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Tuesday, January 16 Orthros & Divine Liturgy @ St. Anthony, Bergenfield, 6 PM

Wednesday, January 17 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Friday, January 19 Family Night & Midnight Run

Saturday, January 20 Great Vespers, 5:00

Prayers for Christian Unity after Great Vespers

Sunday, March 3 Annual Parish Meeting

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “We, in receiving baptism, in imitation of our Lord and teacher and guide, are not indeed buried in the earth (for this is the shelter of the body that is entirely dead, covering the infirmity and decay of our nature), but coming to the element akin to earth, to water, we conceal ourselves in that as the Saviour did in the earth: and by doing this thrice we represent for ourselves that grace of the resurrection which was wrought in three days.”

- St. Gregory of Nyssa