Bulletin for Sunday, November 17, 2024 - Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost

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

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

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

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, November 17, 2024

Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 4 and Eothinon 10

Gregory the Wonderworker, Bishop of Neo-Caesarea

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of St. Gregory of Neo-Caesarea – Tone 8

By vigilance in prayer, and continuance in the working of wonders, thou didst acquire thine achievements as a surname; wherefore, intercede with Christ our God, O Father Gregory, to enlighten our souls, lest we sleep in sin unto death.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

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

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

Verse. Bless the Lord, O my soul.

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

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

THE LORD SPOKE THIS PARABLE: “The land of a rich man brought forth plentifully; and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns, and build larger ones; and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you; and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”

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

Next week’s homework: Galatians 6:11-18 (Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost)

Luke 18:18-27 (Thirteenth Sunday of Luke)

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

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

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

NOVEMBER 17, 2024 – TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

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

TODAY, NOVEMBER 17 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Claire Banat, Paul Dib, Edward Richard Eadeh, Alice Elkas, Robert A. Forcina, Charlene Alekel Goldrick, George R. Haddad, Robert E. Mackoul, Aziz Malika, George Malouf, Moufid Taweel, and Gregory Zarr. Memory eternal!

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

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

Carol Furer offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her father, the servant of God Paul T. Dib. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Albert Ganim, Antonia Khoury, Zakia Tannous Khoury, Edward Sarkis, Freda and Melkon Sayegh, Gladys Schroeder, and Souhaila Jada Sciacchitano. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Dr. Alice Farkouh (Egers, Staten Island), Raymond Saleeby (Morristown), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

FEAST OF THE ENTRANCE OF THE THEOTOKOS – We will celebrate Festal Orthros at 7 PM and the Divine Liturgy at 8 PM on Wednesday, November 20, in anticipation of the Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple. Please begin your Eucharistic fast after an early and light lunch.

FALL BIBLE STUDY – There will be no Bible Study this week because of the services for the Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos nor next week due to Thanksgiving.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, November 20. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

HURRICANE AND LEBANON RELIEF – In response to the appeals of Metropolitan SABA we continue to receive offerings in support of our churches and people who sustained losses during the recent hurricanes and in support of the suffering people of Lebanon. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “hurricane” or “Lebanon” in the memo line.

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES –Teen SOYO has placed two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions between now and December 10. We will distribute all items to the Pan-Orthodox Holy Cross Outreach Center on 4th Avenue.

IOCC SUNDAY – Our November pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for “International Orthodox Christian Charities” dated November 24. We annually receive this collection on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Our faithful can either drop their envelope in the collection tray on Sundays or return it to the church office. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes, please inform the church office so that we can add you to our list of supporters. Thank you for your support of IOCC.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE – The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique in Couri Hall on Saturday, December 7, from 9:30 AM to 4 PM, and on Sunday, December 8 after church. Items will be sold and the gift baskets and 50/50 raffles will be drawn. We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year, we are accepting donations of china, elegant glassware, collectibles and new items. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 8 to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771-2427 if you are available to help or have any questions.

LOTTERY – Dianna Russo Kitchen or George Trisciuzzi are managing this year’s annual Little-Bit-o-Luck Lottery in Deacon Farid’s absence. Please see Dianna or George to reserve your ticket.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, November 18 Parish Council, 7 PM

Wednesday, November 20 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Festal Orthros, 7 PM, Divine Liturgy, 8 PM

Thursday, November 21 Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos

Saturday, November 23 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Sunday, November 24 IOCC Sunday

Saturday, November 30 No Great Vespers

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Cheerfulness consists in not regarding things as our own, but as entrusted to us by God for the benefit of our fellow servants. It consists in scattering them abroad generously with joy and magnanimity, not reluctantly or under compulsion.”

- St. Symeon the New Theologian

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, November 10, 2024 - Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost

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

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

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

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, November 10, 2024

Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 3 and Eothinon 9

Apostles Olympas, Rodion, Sosipater, Tertios, Erastos and Quartos of the Seventy

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 3

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

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

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

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

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

Verse. Clap your hands, all you nations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NOVEMBER 10, 2024 – TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

TODAY, NOVEMBER 10 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Michele Ateyeh, John L. Boojamra, Leila Dahdouh, Rashida Marie Haddad, Wajiba Kaba, Victoria Khoury, Dorothy Madey, George Massabni, Gabriella R. Sadaka, and Nicholas Sahadi. Memory eternal!

The Friends of Michele Ateyeh offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of her soul. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Claire Banat, Paul Dib, Edward Richard Eadeh, Alice Elkas, Robert A. Forcina, Charlene Alekel Goldrick, George R. Haddad, Robert E. Mackoul, Aziz Malika, George Malouf, Moufid Taweel, and Gregory Zarr. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, and Victoria Sleyman (at home).

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

MEMORY ETERNAL! We are saddened to announce that the handmaiden of God Rose Zrake departed this life in the hope of the Resurrection last Sunday. Her funeral was from St. Mary’s Church on Thursday. We extend our deepest sympathies to her brother Larry and to all of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Memory eternal!

HARVEST LUNCHEON - The Parish Council invites the parish family to the Fall Harvest Luncheon following the Divine Liturgy.

FAMILY NIGHT AND MIDNIGHT RUN – There will be a Family Night this Friday from 7-9, and Marwan Al-Laham and Sam Maalouf will lead our delegation on the Midnight Run into Manhattan to minister to the homeless and immigrant communities.

IOCC SUNDAY – Our November pledge envelopes included a yellow envelope for “International Orthodox Christian Charities” dated November 24. We annually receive this collection on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Our faithful can either drop their envelope in the collection tray on Sundays or return it to the church office. If you are not receiving pledge envelopes, please inform the church office so that we can add you to our list of supporters. Thank you for your support of IOCC.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, November 20. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

BIBLE STUDY – We continue our Bible Study at 7 PM on Wednesdays. We will study the Gospel of Luke. We will use the Orthodox Study Bible. For remote access use the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

PET BLESSING – Teen SOYO will host their annual Pet Blessing this Saturday, November 16, at 2 PM on the Ridge Boulevard lawn. See the flyer in this week’s bulletin for more information.

CANNED FOOD AND WINTER COAT DRIVES – Next week Teen SOYO will place two large boxes in the vestibule for their annual Canned Food and Winter Coat Drives. Please bring your contributions before December 17. We will distribute all items to the Holy Cross Brooklyn Outreach Center.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE – The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique in Couri Hall on Saturday, December 7, from 9:30 AM to 4 PM, and on Sunday, December 8 after church. Items will be sold and the gift baskets and 50/50 raffles will be drawn. We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year, we are accepting donations of china, elegant glassware, collectibles and new items. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 8 to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771-2427 if you are available to help or have any questions.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Sunday, November 10 Fall Harvest Luncheon

Allaham Baptism, 4:30 PM

Wednesday, November 13 Bible Study, 7 PM

Friday, November 15 Advent Fast Begins

Family Night, 7-9 PM

Midnight Run

Saturday, November 16 Pet Blessing, 2 PM

Great Vespers, 5 PM

Monday, November 18 Parish Council, 7 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Let our enemy too understand that we have taken much pains, in order to do what is well-pleasing unto God.”

- St. John Chrysostom

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, November 3, 2024 - Nineteenth 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, November 3, 2024

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 2 and Eothinon 8

Martyrs Akepsimas, Joseph and Aeithalas of Persia

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 for the Persian Martyrs – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – II Corinthians 11:31-12:9 (Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

Verse. The Lord has chastened me sorely.

BRETHREN, the God and Father of the Lord Jesus, he who is blessed forever, knows that I do not lie. At Damascus, the governor under King Aretas guarded the city of Damascus in order to seize me, but I was let down in a basket through a window in the wall, and escaped his hands.

I must boast; there is nothing to be gained by it, but I will go on to visions and revelations of the Lord. I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven – whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows. And I know that this man was caught up into Paradise – whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows – and he heard things that cannot be told, which man may not utter. On behalf of this man I will boast, but on my own behalf I will not boast, except of my weaknesses. Though if I wish to boast, I shall not be a fool, but I shall be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me. And to keep me from being too elated by the abundance of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to harass me, to keep me from being too elated. Three times I besought the Lord about this, that it should leave me; but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” I will all the more gladly boast of my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

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

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

Next week’s homework: Galatians 1:11-19 (Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

NOVEMBER 3, 2024 – NINETEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

TODAY, NOVEMBER 3 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nicholas L. Assatly, Stanley Fadel, Henry Hadad, Assad Hanna, Olga and Salem Jabara, Delores and Paul Jabara, Evelyn Mouracade, Josephine Tadross, and Mary and Richard Zraick. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Michele Ateyeh, John L. Boojamra, Leila Dahdouh, Rashida Marie Haddad, Wajiba Kaba, Victoria Khoury, Dorothy Madey, George Massabni, Gabriella R. Sadaka, and Nicholas Sahadi. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR NOVEMBER – We observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil, and their by-products) on Wednesdays and Fridays. The fasting period of Advent begins on November 15 and continues until Christmas Day.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesdays, November 6 and 20. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

HURRICANE AND LEBANON RELIEF – In response to the appeals of Metropolitan SABA we continue to receive offerings in support of our churches and people who sustained losses during the recent hurricanes and in support of the suffering people of Lebanon. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “hurricane” or “Lebanon” in the memo line.

HARVEST LUNCHEON - The Parish Council invites the parish family to the Fall Harvest Luncheon on Sunday, November 10, in the church hall following Divine Liturgy. Volunteers are needed to donate either completed theme-based gift baskets or items that can be used to assemble gift baskets for the raffles. Anybody who wishes to donate or donate towards the raffles please see Lorraine Deeb. Nahla Bittar is once again organizing the menu donations, so anyone wishing to contribute a tray, or donate toward any item on the simple preset menu should see Nahla.

FALL BIBLE STUDY – We continue our Bible Study at 7 PM on Wednesdays. We will study the Gospel of Luke. We will use the Orthodox Study Bible which is available from our parish bookstore. Please see Lorraine Deeb to obtain a copy. For remote access use the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE – The Ladies of St. Mary's are preparing for the Christmas Boutique in Couri Hall on Saturday, December 7, from 9:30 AM to 4 PM, and on Sunday, December 8 after church. Items will be sold and the gift baskets and 50/50 raffles will be drawn. We are hoping that our very talented bakers will generously donate their specialties. If you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Nahla Bittar at (718) 909-6727. This year, we are accepting donations of china, elegant glassware, collectibles and new items. We need MEN VOLUNTEERS on Sunday afternoon December 8 to assist packing up after the Boutique. Please contact Gale Zarr (917) 771-2427 if you are available to help or have any questions.

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 – Why should I include St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan? To honor my parents who bequeathed me their faith. To provide for the spiritual life of my children in this secular age. To provide a legacy for my grandchildren. To offer a place of refuge for the stranger and seeker.

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.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, November 6 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Bible Study, 7 PM

Saturday, November 9 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Sunday, November 10 Fall Harvest Luncheon

Friday, November 15 Advent Fast Begins

Saturday, November 16 Pet Blessing, 2 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “If the Holy Spirit is peace of soul, as He is said to be, and as He is in reality, and if anger is disturbance of heart, as it actually is and as it is said to be, then nothing so prevents His presence in us as anger.”

- St. John Climacus

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, October 27, 2024 - Eighteenth 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, October 27, 2024

Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 1 and Eothinon 7

Martyr Nestor of Thessalonica

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

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 1

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – II Corinthians 9:6-11 (Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

Verse. Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous.

BRETHREN, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every good work. As it is written, “He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your resources and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way for great generosity, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.

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

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

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

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

Next week’s homework: II Corinthians 11:31-12:9 (Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

OCTOBER 27, 2024 – EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

TODAY, OCTOBER 27 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Matilda Couri Boutross, Aleer Couri, Elena Paris, Najla Sahadi, Charles Salloum, Susan Texeira, and Lorraine Zraick. Memory eternal!

Elaine and John Couri of Ridgefield, CT, offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Aleer Couri. Memory eternal!

The Family of Lorraine Zraick offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of her soul. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

The Family of Wajeeha and Munir Kaba offers Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of her soul. A Coffee Hour in their memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Nicholas L. Assatly, Stanley Fadel, Henry Hadad, Assad Hanna, Olga and Salem Jabara, Delores and Paul Jabara, Evelyn Mouracade, Josephine Tadross, and Mary and Richard Zraick. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Diana Finger, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, and Rose Zrake (at home).

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

FASTING DISCIPLINE FOR NOVEMBER – We observe the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine, olive oil, and their by-products) on Wednesdays and Fridays. The fasting period of Advent begins on November 15 and continues until Christmas Day.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesdays, November 6 and 20. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7-9. Everyone is welcome!

HURRICANE AND LEBANON RELIEF – In response to the appeals of Metropolitan SABA we continue to receive offerings in support of our churches and people who sustained losses during the recent hurricanes and in support of the suffering people of Lebanon. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “hurricane” or “Lebanon” in the memo line.

STANDARD TIME RETURNS – Please remember to set the clocks back one hour on Saturday night!

HARVEST LUNCHEON - The Parish Council invites the parish family to the Fall Harvest Luncheon on Sunday November 10 in the church hall following Divine Liturgy. Volunteers are needed to donate either completed theme-based gift baskets or items that can be used to assemble gift baskets for the raffles. Anybody who wishes to donate or donate towards the raffles please see Lorraine Deeb. Nahla Bittar is once again organizing the menu donations, so anyone wishing to contribute a tray, or donate toward any item on the simple preset menu should see Nahla.

FALL BIBLE STUDY – We continue our Bible Study at 7 PM on Wednesdays. We will study the Gospel of Luke. We will use the Orthodox Study Bible which is available from our parish bookstore. Please see Lorraine Deeb to obtain a copy. For remote access use the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

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

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 – Why should I include St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan? To honor my parents who bequeathed me their faith. To provide for the spiritual life of my children in this secular age. To provide a legacy for my grandchildren. To offer a place of refuge for the stranger and seeker.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, October 30 Bible Study, 7 PM

Friday, November 1 All-Night Vigil @ St. Nicholas Cathedral

Family Night, 7-9 PM

Saturday, November 2 AWE Retreat @ St. Stephen’s Church, South Plainfield, NJ

Great Vespers, 5 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “If the Holy Spirit is peace of soul, as He is said to be, and as He is in reality, and if anger is disturbance of heart, as it actually is and as it is said to be, then nothing so prevents His presence in us as anger.”

- St. John Climacus

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, October 20, 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, October 20, 2024

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 8 and Eothinon 6

Great Martyr Artemius at Antioch

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 Great Martyr Artemius – Tone 4

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next week’s homework: II Corinthians 9:6-11 (18th Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

OCTOBER 20, 2024 – SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

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

TODAY, OCTOBER 20 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Mary Fauty, Sophie Fauty, Angel Folsey, Henry Hadad, Sr., George P. James, Joseph Khouri, Anne, Samia, Fareed, Hazel, and George Khoury, Marie Khoury, Annette Lattof, John Martin, Temam Kotite Samra, Edith and Mitchell A. Tadross, and George Wardi. Memory eternal!

George Trisciuzzi offers Prayers of Oblation for the servant of God Frédéric Lallonder-Molenac, of Pau, France. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Matilda Couri Boutross, Aleer Couri, Elena Paris, Najla Sahadi, Susan Texeira, and Lorraine Zraick. Memory eternal!

The Family of Lorraine Zraick will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of her soul. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

The Family of Wajeeha Kaba will offer Prayers of Oblation and a One-Year Memorial for the repose of her soul. A Coffee Hour in her memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Diana Finger (Meadowbrook, Freeport), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, and Rose Zrake (at home).

COFFEE HOUR – In the absence of a sponsor for today’s Coffee Hour, the Parish Council will place a basket on the table for our free will offerings.

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

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S - The Ladies of St. Mary’s will meet today immediately after Divine Liturgy. All ladies are welcome and urged to attend as we plan our beautiful holiday season.

PARISH COUNCIL – The Parish Council will meet tomorrow, October 21, at 7 PM.

OUR TIME – Our senior fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesday, October 23, from 1-3 PM. The fellowship also sponsors pickleball on Tuesday and Thursday from 7-9 PM. Everyone is welcome!

HURRICANE AND LEBANON RELIEF – In response to the appeals of Metropolitan SABA we continue to receive offerings in support of our churches and people who sustained losses during the recent hurricanes and in support of the suffering people of Lebanon. Please make checks payable to St. Mary’s Church with “hurricane” or “Lebanon” in the memo line.

HARVEST LUNCHEON - The Parish Council invites the parish family to the Fall Harvest Luncheon on Sunday November 10 in the church hall following Divine Liturgy. Volunteers are needed to donate either completed theme-based gift baskets or items that can be used to assemble gift baskets for the raffles. Anybody who wishes to donate or donate towards the raffles please see Lorraine Deeb. Nahla Bittar is once again organizing the menu donations, so anyone wishing to contribute a tray, or donate toward any item on the simple preset menu should see Nahla.

FALL BIBLE STUDY – We continue our Bible Study at 7 PM on Wednesdays. We will study the Gospel of Luke. We will use the Orthodox Study Bible which is available from our parish bookstore. Please see Lorraine Deeb to obtain a copy. For remote access use the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

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

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, October 21 Parish Council, 7 PM

Wednesday, October 23 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Bible Study, 7 PM

Friday, October 25 Family Night, 7-9 PM

Saturday, October 26 Great Vespers, 5 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Let us maintain an attentiveness which keeps our body in permanent tension. Thanks to this tension, even when we sleep, we can bear in mind the aim of our life. Prayer can penetrate as far as what psychologists call the subconscious. A true ascetic keeps control over what happens in himself at all times, even during sleep. If bad thoughts arise, he gets up and prays. Thus, little by little, our conscience will illuminate everything we do in daily life.”

- Archimandrite Sophrony of Essex

Bulletin for Sunday, October 13, 2024 - Sunday of the Holy Fathers of the Seventh Ecumenical Council

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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, October 13, 2024

Sunday of the Holy Fathers of the Seventh Ecumenical Council

Tone 7 and Eothinon 5

Hieromartyr Jacob of Hamatoura

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 Holy Fathers – Tone 8

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

Apolytikion of St. Jacob of Hamatoura – Tone 3

As a cedar of Lebanon thou growest, never fearing thy martyrdom and death, thou becamest a true victor, O Saint Jacob. For thou didst overcome death with thy mortal flesh, when thou didst tame all the passions by humility. And while burning like incense, as a true sacrifice, thou intercedeth with Christ to grant our souls the great mercy.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – Titus 3:8-15 (Holy Fathers)

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

Verse. Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven.

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

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

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

Grace be with you all. Amen.

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

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

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

Next week’s homework: II Corinthians 6:16-7:1 (17th Sunday after Pentecost)

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

OCTOBER 13, 2024 – SUNDAY OF THE HOLY FATHERS OF THE SEVENTH ECUMENICAL COUNCIL

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

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

OCTOBER IS YOUTH AND SEMINARY MONTH IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE!

TODAY, OCTOBER 13 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Arida, Selma Assatly, Doris Farkouh Creidy, Janet M. Gehshan, John G. Golam, Margaret Mackoul, Helen Orfaly, Beder and Sadallah Sabbagh, Virgina M. and George A. Sahadi, and Michael Zarouni. Memory eternal!

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

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Mary Fauty, Sophie Fauty, Henry Hadad, Sr., George P. James, Marie Khoury, Samia, Fareed, George, Anne, and Hazel Khoury, Annette Lattof, John Martin, Temam Kotite Samra, Edith and Mitchell A. Tadross, and George Wardi. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Diana Finger (Meadowbrook, Freeport), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, and Rose Zrake (at home).

COFFEE HOUR – In the absence of a sponsor for today’s Coffee Hour, the Parish Council will place a basket on the table for our free will offerings.

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

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

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

YOUTH MONTH – During October our teens will read the epistle, assist with the distribution of the Eucharist, and serve as ushers.

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

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – Although final figures are not yet available, we can safely say that this year’s outing was among the most successful we have had. We once again extend congratulations to the Executive Committee of Ed Mackoul, Rob Mackoul, and Daria Mayrose, along with all the volunteers, donors, and sponsors, especially the Basso, Mackoul, Sabbagh, and Sahadi Families and their businesses.

FALL BIBLE STUDY – We will begin our “fall term” on Wednesday, October 16, at 7 PM. We will study the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts of the Apostles. We will use the Orthodox Study Bible which is available from our parish bookstore. Please see Lorraine Deeb to obtain a copy. For remote access use the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09.

MIDNIGHT RUN – In the absence of Deacon Farid this month, Sam Maalouf and Marwan Al-Laham will lead our delegation for the Midnight Run into Manhattan to minister to the homeless and immigrant populations this Friday.

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

DATES TO REMEMBER

Friday, October 18 Midnight Run

Saturday, October 19 Bay Ridge Cares Pancake Breakfast

Great Vespers, 5 PM

Monday, October 21 Parish Council, 7 PM

Wednesday, October 23 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Make no mistake, O fool: toil and sweat for God’s sake, in the cultivation of virtues, precede hope in Him. If you believe, therefore, that God provides for His creatures and is omnipotent, show that your works are congruent with your faith; and then God will harken unto you and provide you with all that you need – without any effort on your part. And, furthermore, He will deliver you from every peril, harm and affliciton

- St. Issac the Syrian

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, October 6, 2024 - Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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, October 6, 2024

Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 6 and Eothinon 4

Holy and Glorious Apostle Thomas

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 6

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

Apolytikion of St. Thomas – Tone 3

O holy Apostle Thomas, intercede with our merciful God to grant our souls forgiveness of sins.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OCTOBER 6, 2024 – FIFTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

Today we are blessed to welcome V. Rev. Fr. Bogdan Bucur, Professor of Patristics at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary to preside at the divine services in Fr. Michael’s absence.

TODAY, OCTOBER 6 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Zahaya Dahab, Ghassan Fattouh, Dorothy Howie, Bernice Wardi Lufty, Rose Rowady, Edmund Shawah. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Edward Arida, Selma Assatly, Doris Farkouh Creidy, Angel Folsey, Janet M. Gehshan, John G. Golam, Anne, Samia, Fareed, Hazel, and George Khoury, Margaret Mackoul, Helen Orfaly, Beder and Sadallah Sabbagh, Virgina M. and George A. Sahadi, Edith and Mitchell A. Tadross, and Michael Zarouni. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Diana Finger (Meadowbrook, Freeport), Rouda Abboud, Isla Albishara, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, and Rose Zrake (at home).

COFFEE HOUR – In the absence of a sponsor for today’s Coffee Hour, the Parish Council will place a basket on the table for our free will offerings.

OUR TIME – Our Adult Fellowship, “Our Time,” will meet on Wednesdays, October 9 and 23, from1 to 3 PM. Everyone is welcome, and feel free to bring your friends and neighbors.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – Thanks be to God, we enjoyed another highly successful Saints and Sinners Robert E. Mackoul Memorial Golf and Tennis Outing at beautiful Hempstead Golf and Country Club last Monday. We extend our thanks and congratulations to the Executive Committee – Ed Mackoul, Rob Mackoul, and Daria Mayrose) and to all the workers and volunteers who made the day so enjoyable and profitable. Although final figures are not yet available, we can safely say that this year’s event was one of the most successful in the outing history!

FALL BIBLE STUDY – We will begin our “fall term” on Wednesday, October 16, at 7 PM. We will begin our study of the Gospel of Luke and Book of Acts of the Apostles. Watch this space to learn if the class will be in person, online, or both. We will use the Orthodox Study Bible which is available from our parish bookstore. Please see Lorraine Deeb to obtain a copy.

FALL HOUSE BLESSINGS – Several families have requested to have their homes blessed in the Fall. If interested, please email Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc.org, or call the church office.

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

GRANDMA’S LOVE – This Friday, October 11, Grandma’s Love will sponsor their annual Radio Bingo Night here in our church hall. Please call (347) 432-2408 for reservations or more information.

LADIES OF ST. MARY’S – The Ladies of St. Mary’s will hold their first meeting of the fall on Sunday, October 20, following the Divine Liturgy. All the women of the parish are welcome and encouraged to attend. Please see President Sandra Arida for more information.

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

ESTATE PLANNING – Why should I include St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan? In order to assure that my children and grandchildren will have a place to worship God, to baptize their children, to get married, to bury their dead, and to share the fellowship of fellow Christians – no matter what economic conditions there may be in the future!

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.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, October 9 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Friday, October 11 Grandma’s Love Radio Bingo

Saturday, October 12 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Friday, October 18 Midnight Run

Saturday, October 19 Bay Ridge Cares Pancake Breakfast

Sunday, October 20 Ladies of St. Mary’s Meeting

Monday, October 21 Parish Council, 7 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – It is written: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord” shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that does the will of My father’ (Matthew 7:21). The will of the Father is indicated in the words, ‘You who love the Lord, hate evil’ (Psalm 97:10). Hence we should both pray the Prayer of Jesus Christ and hate our evil thoughts. In this way we do God’s will.

- St. Hesycius the Priest

Bulletin for Sunday, September 29, 2024 - Fourteenth 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, September 29, 2024

Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 5 and Eothinon 3

Cyriacus the Hermit of Palestine

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 for St. Kyriakos of Palestine - Tone 1

Thou didst prove to be a citizen of the desert, an angel in the flesh, and a wonderworker, O Kyriakos, our God-bearing Father. By fasting, vigil, and prayer thou didst obtain heavenly gifts, and thou healest the sick and the souls of them that have recourse to thee with faith. Glory to Him that hath given thee strength; glory to Him that hath crowned thee; glory to Him that worketh healings for all through thee.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Theotokos – Tone 2

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

Epistle – II Corinthians 1:21-2:4 (Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost)

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

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

BRETHREN, it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has commissioned us; he has put his seal upon us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.

But I call God to witness against me – it was to spare you that I refrained from coming to Corinth. Not that we lord it over your faith; we work with you for your joy, for you stand firm in your faith. For I made up my mind not to make you another painful visit. For if I cause you pain, who is there to make me glad but the one whom I have pained? And I wrote as I did, so that when I came I might not suffer pain from those who should have made me rejoice, for I felt sure of all of you, that my joy would be the joy of you all. For I wrote you out of much affliction and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to cause you pain but to let you know the abundant love that I have for you.

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

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

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

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

HOLY BREAD – Linda and George Salamy have made a donation for the entire year. Many years! Roland Salloum and Wanda Salloum sponsor the Holy Bread for the month of September for the repose of the souls of Wadih Salloum and all their departed family members. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for October and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

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.”

COFFEE HOUR – In the absence of a sponsor for today’s Coffee Hour, the Parish Council will place a basket on the table for our free will offerings.

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

SEPTEMBER 29, 2024 – FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

Today we are pleased and blessed to welcome Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Paul Matar, Hierarchical Assistant to the Metropolitan and for our diocese, to preside at the divine services in Fr. Michael’s absence. Welcome to St. Mary’s Church of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn!

TODAY, SEPTEMBER 29 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lorraine Assatly, Victoria F. Dib, Gary Kassatly, Alexander Khoury, Addie, Mary Alice, Alfred and Edmund Nahas, Adrienne Poulakakos, Barbara Salamy, Herbert Trabulsi, Fred Zahka, and Antoun Zgheib. Memory eternal!

Alice Carolyn Furer offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her mother, the handmaiden of God Victoria Fiani Dib. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Zahaya Dahab, Ghassan Fattouh, Dorothy Howie, Bernice Wardi Lufty, Rose Rowady, Edmund Shawah, Edith and Mitchell A. Tadross. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Isla Albishara (Cohen’s Children’s Hospital), Diana Finger (Meadowbrook, Freeport), Nancy Zarouni (NYC Lutheran), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, Joseph Khouri, George Khoury, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Victoria Sleyman, and Rose Zrake (at home).

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The next edition of the Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing will take place tomorrow, at the Hempstead Country Club. Let’s pray for “seasonable weather” and God’s blessing on this event!

GREAT VESPERS - There will be no Great Vespers this Saturday, October 5, at St. Mary’s Church. Please take the opportunity to attend services at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church.

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

FALL HOUSE BLESSINGS – Several families have requested to have their homes blessed in the Fall. If interested, please email Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc.org, or call the church office.

SPECIAL ADULT EDUCATION CLASS – We will conclude our 3-week class as an introduction to the Orthodox Church for the non-Orthodox spouses of Orthodox parishioners. No commitment to join the Church is required. The final session will be Wednesday, October 2, at 7 PM. Use the Zoom link https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09. Orthodox spouses are also welcome!

FALL BIBLE STUDY – We will begin our “fall term” on Wednesday, October 16, at 7 PM. We will begin our study of the Gospel of Luke and Book of Acts of the Apostles. Watch this space to learn if the class will be in person, online, or both. We will use the Orthodox Study Bible which is available from our parish bookstore. Please see Lorraine Deeb to obtain a copy.

FAMILY NIGHT – Everyone is welcome to Family Night this Friday from 7 to 9 PM.

ON-LINE GIVING – Just visit https://smaoc.squarespace.com/donate and pay securely by credit card, debit card, or checking account.

ESTATE PLANNING – Why should I include St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan? In order to assure that my children and grandchildren will have a place to worship God, to baptize their children, to get married, to bury their dead, and to share the fellowship of fellow Christians – no matter what economic conditions there may be in the future!

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.

DATES TO REMEMBER

Monday, September 30 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

Wednesday, October 2 Online Class, 7 PM

Dabke Lessons, 7 PM

Friday, October 4 Family Night, 7-9 PM

Saturday, October 5 No Great Vespers

Wednesday, October 9 “Our Time” Adult Fellowship, 1-3 PM

Friday, October 11 Grandma’s Love Radio Bingo

Saturday, October 12 Great Vespers, 5 PM

Saturday, October 19 Bay Ridge Cares Pancake Breakfast

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “For just as the poor should give thanks to God and return rich love to those who assist them, so all the more should the wealthy give thanks, for through God’s providence they are able to perform acts of charity, and so are saved both in this age and in the age to come. For without the poor they cannot save their souls or flee the temptations of wealth.”

- St. Peter of Damascus

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, September 22, 2024 - Thirteenth 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, September 22, 2024

Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Tone 4 and Eothinon 2

Hieromartyr Phocas, Bishop of Sinope

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 for St. Phocas of Sinope – Tone 4

By choosing the Apostles’ way of life, thou hast succeeded to their throne. Inspired by God, thou didst find the way to divine contemplation through the practice of virtue. After teaching the Word of Truth without error, thou didst defend the Faith to the very shedding of thy blood, O Holy Martyr among bishops Phocas. 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 – I Corinthians 16:13-24 (Thirteenth 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, be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

Now, brethren, you know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints; I urge you to be subject to such men and to every fellow worker and laborer. I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicos, because they have made up for your absence; for they refreshed my spirit as well as yours. Give recognition to such men.

The churches of Asia send greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord. All the brethren send greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.

I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord, come! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.

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

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

Next week’s homework: II Corinthians 1:21-2:4 (14th Sunday after Pentecost)

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

HOLY BREAD – Roland Salloum and Wanda Salloum sponsor the Holy Bread for the month of September for the repose of the souls of Wadih Salloum and all their departed family members. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for September and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

SEPTEMBER 22, 2024 – THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

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

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

TODAY, SEPTEMBER 22 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Avjon Golam, Dimitry Golam, Werda Hadad, George Haddad, Eleanor Kalesh, George K. Moore, Very Rev. Fr. P.W.S. Schneirla, Shirley Schneirla, William Sutfin Schneirla Jr., and Donald O. Page, and Edward, Ronald, Valerie and Victoria Tadross. Memory eternal!

Brenda Sabbagh offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Eleanor Kalesh. Memory eternal!

Wade E. Saadi offers Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Nicholas Lian Massab. Memory eternal!

Gloria Jabara and Family offer Prayers of Oblation and a 2-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Kenneth Jabara. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

Our Parish Family offers Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of our beloved former pastor, Very Rev. Fr. Paul W.S. Schneirla. Memory eternal!

NEXT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Lorraine Assatly, Victoria F. Dib, Kenneth Jabara, Gary Kassatly, Alexander Khoury, Addie, Mary Alice, Alfred Nahas, Edmund Nahas, Adrienne Poulakakos, Barbara Salamy, Herbert Trabulsi, Fred Zahka, and Antoun Zgheib. Memory eternal!

Alice Carolyn Furer will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of her mother, the handmaiden of God Victoria Fiani Dib. Memory eternal!

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

CHURCH SCHOOL– Church School Superintendent Lorraine Deeb has posted a registration form in today’s bulletin, on the bulletin board, and at the bengari. Students ages 4-19 will receive Holy Communion first before proceeding to their classrooms.

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.”

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Diana Finger (Meadowbrook, Freeport), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, David Steurer, and Rose Zrake (at home).

SPECIAL ADULT EDUCATION CLASS – We will conclude our 3-week class as an introduction to the Orthodox Church for the non-Orthodox spouses of Orthodox parishioners. No commitment to join the Church is required. The next session will be Wednesday September 25 at 7 PM, and we will extend one more Wednesday, October 2. Please note the new Zoom link https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09. Orthodox spouses are also welcome!

FALL HAFLI – Congratulations to Leen Zgheib and her committee on hosting last evening’s very successful Fall Hafli.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The next edition of the Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing will take place on Monday, September 30, at the Hempstead Country Club. Pre-sales for 50/50 Raffle tickets for this event are available today. Please see Sonia Abounaoum, Sam Maalouf, or Anthony Zrake at the Coffee Hour. Everyone should do something!

FALL HOUSE BLESSINGS – Several families have requested to have their homes blessed in the Fall. If interested, please email Fr. Michael at pastor@smaoc.org, or call the church office.

ESTATE PLANNING – Why should I include St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan? In order to assure that my children and grandchildren will have a place to worship God, to baptize their children, to get married, to bury their dead, and to share the fellowship of fellow Christians – no matter what economic conditions there may be in the future!

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, September 25 On-line Class, 7 PM

Dabke Lessons, 7 PM

Saturday, September 28 No Great Vespers

Monday, September 30 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

Friday, October 4 Family Night, 7-9 PM

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Do not disdain your conscience, for it always gives you the best advice. It sets before you the will of God and the angels, frees you from the secret defilements of the heart, and grants you boldness before God at your departure from this life.”

- St. Maximus the Confessor

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Bulletin for Sunday, September 15, 2024 - Sunday after the Elevation of the Holy Cross

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

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

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

His Eminence Metropolitan 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, September 15, 2024

Sunday after the Elevation of the Holy Cross

Tone 3 and Eothinon 1

Great-Martyr Nikitas the Goth and Those with Him

Today’s Hymns and Readings

Apolytikion of the Resurrection – Tone 3

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

Apolytikion of the Holy Cross – Tone 1

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

Apolytikion of the Nativity of the Theotokos – Tone 4

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

Kontakion of the Holy Cross – Tone 4

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

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

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

Verse. Bless the Lord, O my soul.

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

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

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

Next week’s homework: I Corinthians 16:13-24 (13th Sunday after Pentecost)

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

HOLY BREAD – Roland Salloum and Wanda Salloum sponsor the Holy Bread for the month of September for the repose of the souls of Wadih Salloum and all their departed family members. Memory eternal! Additional donors are welcome for September and succeeding months. We ask for a donation of $50/week.

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

FLOWERS FOR THE HOLY CROSS – Donors are welcome for today’s procession with the precious and life-giving Cross. Please make your check payable to St. Mary’s Church with “flowers” in the memo line.

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

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

SEPTEMBER 15, 2024 – SUNDAY AFTER THE ELEVATION OF THE HOLY CROSS

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

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

TODAY, SEPTEMBER 15 - We pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Elizabeth Ganim Cohen, George Fauty, Victor Hamaty, Emileen Hanna, Katherine and Wilfred Jabara, Stephen Paul James, Alexander Orfaly, Wajieha Sabbagh, and Edward M. Traboulsi. Memory eternal!

Diane Zamaria offers the Holy Bread and Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Dr. Salem Al Naber as well as for the health of his wife Mary and their children Jennifer, Ibrahim, Thomas and their families.

NEXT SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 – We will pray for the repose of the souls of the servants of God Avjon Golam and Dimitry Golam, Werda Hadad, George Haddad, Eleanor Kalesh, George K. Moore, Very Rev. Fr. W. P. S. Schneirla, Shirley Schneirla, William Sutfin Schneirla Jr., and Donald O. Page, and Edward, Ronald, Valerie and Victoria Tadross. Memory eternal!

Brenda Sabbagh will offer Prayers of Oblation for the repose of the soul of the handmaiden of God Eleanor Kalesh. Memory eternal!

Gloria Jabara and Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 2-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of the servant of God Kenneth Jabara. A Coffee Hour in his memory will follow the Divine Liturgy. Memory eternal!

Our Parish Family will offer Prayers of Oblation and a 10-Year Memorial for the repose of the soul of our beloved former pastor, Very Rev. Fr. Paul W.S. Schneirla. Memory eternal!

FOR THE INFIRM - Please remember our ailing brethren in your daily intercessions, especially, Diana Finger (Meadowbrook, Freeport), David Steurer (Mt. Sinai), Rouda Abboud, Yvonne Allawh, Patti DeLuca, Anita Eyd, Alice Farkouh, George Khoury, Joseph Khouri, Denise McBride, Alfred Nahas, Wade Saadi, Victoria Sleyman, and Rose Zrake (at home).

SPECIAL ADULT EDUCATION CLASS – During September we are offering a 3-week class as an introduction to the Orthodox Church for the non-Orthodox spouses of Orthodox parishioners. No commitment to join the Church is required. We are planning two more one-hour sessions on Wednesdays September 18 and 25. These classes will be on line at 7 PM using the link https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81008521083?pwd=QUEyZm8wdmc4aUxTdTdOMzVPN2lRUT09. Orthodox spouses are also welcome!

CHURCH SCHOOL REGISTRATION – Church School Superintendent Lorraine Deeb has posted a registration form on the bulletin board, and she has placed additional forms at the bengari. Classes for students 4-19 will resume today following the procession with the Holy Cross.

SAINTS AND SINNERS GOLF AND TENNIS OUTING – The next edition of the Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing will take place on Monday, September 30, at the Hempstead Country Club. Pre-sales for 50/50 Raffle tickets for this event will begin today. Please see Sonia Abounaoum, Sam Maalouf or Anthony Zrake at the Coffee Hour. Everyone should do something!

DABKE CLASS – Lynn Rose Saleem has resumed Dabke Class at 7 PM on Wednesdays. More information will follow in the weeks ahead.

MIDNIGHT RUN – On the third Friday of each month Deacon Farid leads a group of volunteers on the Midnight Run to help feed and clothe the homeless and immigrant communities in Manhattan in cooperation with Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church. Please see Deacon Farid to volunteer.

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 – Why should I include St. Mary’s Church in my will or estate plan? In order to assure that my children and grandchildren will have a place to worship God, to baptize their children, to get married, to bury their dead, and to share the fellowship of fellow Christians – no matter what economic conditions there may be in the future!

DATES TO REMEMBER

Wednesday, September 18 On-line Class, 7 PM

Dabke Class, 7 PM

Friday, September 20 Midnight Run

Saturday, September 21 Allaham Baptism, 3 PM

Great Vespers, 7 PM

Fall Hafli

Saturday, September 28 No Great Vespers

Monday, September 30 Saints and Sinners Golf and Tennis Outing

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

FROM THE FATHERS – “Humility is the direction of the whole of our lives as Christians, or its foundation. For humility, God gives us grace. And grace gives us the strength to observe firmly the divine commandments. Fulfillment of these commandments makes us particpants of the joy of Christ, both here and in the life to come. If humility is in us, then all the Christian virtues will be inherent to us, as humility is their foundation. For the sake of humility and meekness, grace will preserve us from all intrigues of the enemy, will turn all our sorrows into joy, will forever unite us with Christ, and, while still in our earthly life, we will experience the inexpressible heavenly joy of this union with God.

- St. Seraphim of Sofia

A Parish of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America