Proistamenos: Fr. Douglas Papulis ST. NICHOLAS (636) 527-7843 (314) 974-4613cell MONTHLY NEWSLETTER Parish Priest: Fr. Arbanas ST. NICHOLAS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH (314)909-6999

4967 FOREST PARK AVENUE Office (314)361-6924 ST. LOUIS, MO 63108-1495 Fax (314)361-3539 Executive Secretary: Kathy Ellis ST. NICHOLAS CHURCH FAMILY LIFE CENTER Bookkeeper: Diane Winkler 12550 S FORTY DRIVE Email: [email protected] ST. LOUIS, MO 63141 Website: www.sngoc.org

January 2018 Volume 22- Number 1

The Feast of Epiphany

Christ, according to Orthodox teaching, gave the rite of passage to the Church on the day He Himself was baptized. On this day, St. tells us, Jesus entered the filthy water of the world, and thereafter brought up and purified the world. It is this purification through Je- sus’ Baptism that we commemorate on this day. And it is God’s revelation of Himself as Trinity who makes salvation and eternal life possible, that we also observe. Epiphany’s Gospel les- son, which comes from Matthew 3:12-17, speaks to us about these events, both of which are necessary for salvation

The Gospel lesson is a simple one. Shortly before Jesus’ desert experience and the com- mencement of his earthly ministry, Jesus went to the River Jordan to be Baptized by his cousin John. John, on seeing Jesus, knowing that He is without sin, sought to prevent Him from being baptized by saying, “I need to be Baptized by you, and are you coming to me” (Jn. 3:14)? But Jesus retorted by saying, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting to fulfill all righteousness.”

Oh what a marvel! Jesus who was fully God and fully man, who had no need to be saved “through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit,” condescended to be Baptized. But what was even more marvelous is what transpired thereafter. Following the River Jordan, the Evangelist Matthew tells us, the fullness of the Trinity took place. Jesus’ Baptism is the manifestation of the Father. The voice from Heaven identified his “beloved Son.” God the Holy Spirit descended upon Him like a dove.” (Jn. 3:17) It is this joyous manifestation, of course, for which reason our Holy Orthodox Church on this Epiphany day sings the beloved troparion: “By thy Baptism, O Lord in the River Jordan, worship to the Trinity hath made it ap- pearance; for the voice of the Lord did come forth to thee with the testimony, naming thee be- loved Son; and the Spirit in the likeness of a dove, confirming the word. Wherefore, O thou who didst appear and lighted the world, O Christ, glory to thee.”

Epiphany, also called Theophany, comes from the Greek word epiphaneia. This word literally means “appearance” “manifestation from above.” God from above manifested Himself on the first day of Epiphany when he revealed Himself in the manner that he did. Germanos in one of the Matins Hymns of the day puts it this way. He states, “Light of light. Christ our God. God made manifest has shone upon the world.” Similarly, the Holy Apostle Paul in his Epistle to Titus expresses this truth thusly “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to men” (Titus 2:11).

Rev. PauI Cotopoulos

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018 St. Nicholas Servants 2017 PARISH BOARD Announcements Andrew Galakatos,MD, President 314-922-4457 Carol Kamburis, Vice-President Jonathan Hartley, Secretary

Peter Takes PhD, Treasurer Christine Anastas Calendar of Events Helen Carey Elizabeth Glynias Stefan Glynias Jan. 1—Divine Liturgy at FLC Yemane Habtu Jan. 5—Forefeast of Epiphany Marilynn Jemas Bill Mastorakos, DDS Divine Liturgy and Blessing of Mary Ann Mastorakos The Waters at Church Palazzola Kon Vellios Jan. 6 –Holy Epiphany AUDIT COMMITTEE Divine Liturgy and Blessing of Mark Vleisides, Chairperson 314-576-2898 the Waters at FLC Roxana Couternais Peter Lemakis Jan. 7—Vasilopita Sunday and Luncheon Janet Papageorge Jr GOYA Social Event CEMETARY COMMITTEE Jan. 12-15—GOYA Ski Trip William Karides, Chairperson 636-281-0727 Pat Johnson Jan. 21—Family Ministry Event at FLC Irene Schildroth Jan. 27—Philoptochos General Membership CHURCH SCHOOL Co-Directors Bess Fitzmaurice 636-343-3849 Brunch Meeting at FLC Despina Hartley 618-447-6548 Jan. 30—Three Hierarchs DANCE TROUPE Divine Liturgy & Lunch at FLC Georgia Johnson 314-832-0061 ELECTION COMMITTEE ———————— Tina Paradowski , Chairperson 314-781-0781 Friday Night Basketball Paul Leara FLC—Jan. 5 and 12 Pat Lekich Demi Nicozisin Church—Jan 19 and 26 Mark Vleisides GREETERS COMMITTEE Roxana Couteranis, Director 314-752-0252 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) DEMETRIOS Tsikalas (Co-chair) 314-323-2838 St. Nicholas Jonathan Hartley (Co-chair) 618-520-9569 LIBRARY COMMITTEE Book Group Elaine Coulson, Chairperson 314-991-5033 Michael Doran Brandon Redmann The St. Nicholas Book Group will MINISTRY, PRISON Clark Porter, Director 314-518-6747 meet Monday, January 8th at PHILOPTOCHOS 7:00pm, to discuss City of Carol Kamburis, President 314-803-2451 PHYSICAL FACILITIES -CHURCH Secrets by Stewart O’Nan. This Dino Pappas, Chairperson 314-701-8118 thriller follows a Holocaust survivor Bill Coulson Pat Johnson in post-War as he starts a new life PHYSICAL FACILITIES –FAMILY LIFE and becomes increasingly involved Nick Tharenos, Chairperson 314-576-7011 Mike Kamburis in the underground movement that Nick Koskolos Robert Meyer worked to undermine the British Sam Mezines PLANNED GIVING Mandate and establish the state of John Koch, Chairperson 636-922-7732 Israel. We will meet at 7:00pm at Sam Mezines SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE the Family Life Center. Denise Karras, Chairperson 314-368-4205 Barbara Corrigan Yemane Habtu Peter Takes St. Orthodox Theological Institute PLEASE JOIN US!!! Michael G. Tsichlis, PhD 314-361-6924 x330 STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE EVERYONE is Welcome Stefan Glynias, Chairperson 314-644-1875 Ted Anastas Abrahatzion Habtu Yemane Habtu Marilynn Jemas Mary Ann Mastorakos Steve Ott John Russon WEBSITE Rosie Hartley, Webpage Administrator 618-239-9359

Please submit all articles by the 10th of month Email: [email protected] Thank You Jennifer English, Editor 2

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

Philoptochos Corner January 2018

Happy New Year! St. Nicholas Vespers Reception My heartfelt thanks to the Philoptochos Board, Executive and St. Nicholas Day Brunch Board, and entire Membership for their continued support, – December 5 & 6 – hard work, and countless hours spent serving on commit- Many thanks to Maria Kamburis and Georgia Ferretti for tees, in order to meet our Philoptochos commitments. chairing the lovely Vespers Reception and St. Nicholas Thank you for being generous with your time and talents. Day Brunch. It was a beautiful way to kick-off our week A special thanks to Father Doug Papulis and Father Mi- long St. Nicholas Centennial Celebrations. Huge thanks chael Arbanas for their constant spiritual support, love, to the Philoptochos Board for hosting an elegant 100th and guidance. Anniversary Tea Reception. We were honored to have His Grace Demetrios of Mokissos join us for our Grecian Kitchen Holiday Open House centennial weekend. Best wishes to the next 100! - November 4 - Congratulations to the Grecian Kitchen Co-chairs, Christi- Annual Vasilopita Luncheon na Anastas, Carol Kamburis, and their committees for an – Sunday, January 7 – amazing event! Congratulations Jeanne Tompras and the Philoptochos will host its Annual Vasilopita Luncheon with Prayer Shawl Ministry committee for a beautiful display of proceeds to support St. Basil’s Academy. For more than handmade crocheted and knitted items from our Ladies of half a century, St. Basil’s Academy has provided a “home St. Nicholas Philoptochos. Guests enjoyed delicious away from home” for Orthodox young people who come Greek lunch and pastries, Grecian Kitchen specialties to from broken homes, or are victims of poverty, abuse or take home and bake for the holidays, and boutique shop- abandonment. Please join us for a wonderful lunch. ping from over 26 vendors. We look forward to another successful event next year. Save the date for November Calendar of Events: 3, 2018. 1/07 Vasilopita Luncheon 1/11 Board Meeting Grecian Kitchen Harvest 1/27 General Membership Brunch Meeting Luncheon/Bake Sale 2/04 Godparent/Godchild Sunday – November 19 – 2/04 GK Pre-Lenten Luncheon/Bake Sale Thank you to Georgia Ferretti and her committee for an- 2/19 First day of Lent/Clean Monday other successful GK Harvest Luncheon/Bake Sale. Spe- Lenten Luncheon cial thanks to Dianne Zotos who does a great handling 2/25 Sunday of Orthodoxy all the Grecian Kitchen orders which continues to be a huge success! Thanks to the ladies who donated home- made pastries for our bake sale. The success of these events make it possible for us to continue our work in helping the needy, and our beloved St. Nicholas!

Three Hierarchs

Our fathers among the Basil the Great (January 1), Gregory the Theolo- gian (January 25), and (November 13) are known as the Three Holy Hierarchs for their leadership of the Church. Their shared feast day is celebrated on January 30.

During the eleventh century, disputes raged in about which of the three hierarchs was the greatest. By the will of God, the three hierarchs appeared to St. John Mauropous ('Black-foot'), Bishop of Euchaita (June 14 or October 5), in the year 1084, and said that they were equal before God: "There are no divisions among us, and no opposition to one another." St. John chose January 30 for their Feast, thus peacefully ending the controversy.

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018 The Remarkable Story of Carl Who Cared for the Garden Behind a Minister’s Residence

Carl was a quiet man. He didn’t talk much. He would their threat was unchallenged. Carl again offered them always greet you with a big smile and a firm handshake. a drink from his hose. This time they didn’t rob him. Even after living in our neighborhood for over 50 years, They wrenched the hose from his hand and drenched no one could really say they knew him very well. Before him head to foot in the icy water. When they had fin- his retirement, he took the bus to work each morning. ished their humiliation of him, they sauntered off down the street, throwing catcalls and curses, falling over one The lone sight of him walking down the street often wor- another laughing at the hilarity of what they had just ried us. He had a slight limp from a bullet wound he re- done. ceived in WWII. Watching him, we worried that although he had survived WWII, he may not make it through our Carl just watched them. Then he turned toward the changing uptown neighborhood with its ever increasing warmth giving sun, picked up his hose, and went on random violence, gangs and drug activity. with his watering. The summer was quickly fading into fall. Carl was doing some tilling when he was startled by When we saw the flyer at our local church asking for the sudden approach of someone behind him. He stum- volunteers for caring for the gardens behind the minis- bled and fell into some evergreen branches. As he ter’s residence, he responded in his characteristically struggled to regain his footing, he turned to see the tall unassuming manner. Without fanfare, he just signed up. leader of his summer tormentors reaching down for him. He was well into his 87th year when the very thing we He braced himself for the expected attack. had always feared finally happened. He was just finish- ing his watering for the day when three gang members “Don’t worry old man, I’m not gonna hurt you this time.” approached him. Ignoring their attempt to intimidate The young man spoke softly, still offering the tattooed him, he simply asked, “Would you like a drink from the and scarred hand to Carl. As he helped Carl get up, the hose?” man pulled a crumpled bag from his pocket and handed it to Carl. The tallest and toughest-looking of the three said, “Yeah, sure,” with a malevolent little smile. “What’s this?” Carl asked. “It’s your stuff,” the man ex- plained. “It’s your stuff back. Even the money in your As Carl offered the hose to him, the other two grabbed wallet.” “I don’t understand,” Carl said. “Why would you Carl’s arm, throwing him down. As the hose snaked help me now?” crazily over the ground, dousing everything in its way, Carl’s assailants stole his retirement watch and his wal- The man shifted his feet, seeming embarrassed and ill let and then fled. at ease. “I learned something from you,” he said. “I ran with that gang and hurt people like you. We picked you Carl tried to get himself up, but he had been thrown because you were old and we knew we could do it. But down on his bad leg. He lay there trying to gather him- every time we came and did something to you, instead self as the minister came running to help him. Although of yelling and fighting back, you tried to give us a drink. the minister had witnessed the attack from his window, You didn’t hate us for hating you. You kept showing he couldn’t get there fast enough to stop it. love against our hate.”

Carl are you okay? Are you hurt?” the minister kept ask- He stopped for a moment. “I couldn’t sleep after –after ing as he helped Carl to his feet. Carl just passed a we stole your stuff, so here it is back.” He paused for hand over his brow and sighed, shaking his head. “Just another awkward moment, not knowing what more some punk kids, I hope they’ll wise up someday.” His there was to say. “That bag’s my way of saying thanks wet clothes clung to his slight frame as he bent to pick for straightening me out, I guess.” And with that, he up the hose. He adjusted the nozzle again and started walked off down the street. to water. Carl looked down at the sack in his hands and gingerly Confused and a little concerned, the minister asked, opened it. He took out his retirement watch and put it “Carl, what are you doing?” “I’ve got to finish my water- back on his wrist. Opening his wallet, he checked for his ing. It’s been very dry lately,” came the calm reply. Sat- wedding photo. He gazed for a moment at the young isfying himself that Carl really was all right, the minister bride that still smiled back at him from all those years could only marvel. Carl was a man from a different time ago. and place.

A few weeks later the three returned. Just as before (continue on page 5)

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

(continue from page 5) He died one cold day after Christmas that winter. Many New Year’s Resolutions people attended his funeral in spite of the weather. In

particular, the minister noticed a tall young man that he didn’t know sitting quietly in a distant corner of the Always be honest (Proverbs 12:22) church. The minister spoke of Carl’s garden as a lesson in life. In a voice made thick with unshed tears, he said, Count your blessings (Psalms 34:1-3) “Do your best and make a garden as beautiful as you can. We will never forget Carl and his garden.” Bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) The following spring another flyer went up. It read: “Person needed to care for Carl’s garden.” Forgive and forget ( 7:18)

The flyer went unnoticed by the busy parishioners until one day when a knock was heard at the minister’s office Be kind and tender hearted (Ephesians 4:32) door. Opening the door, the minister saw a pair of scarred and tattooed hands holding the flyer. “I believe Comfort one another (1 Thessalonias 4:18) this is my job, if you’ll have me,” the young man said.

Keep your promises (Romans 4:21) The minister recognized him as the same young man who had returned the stolen watch and wallet to Carl. Be supportive of one another (Acts 20:35) He knew Carl’s kindness had turned this man’s life around. As the minister handed him the keys to the gar- Be true to each other (Revelation 15:3) den shed, he said, “Yes, go take care of Carl’s garden and honor him.” Look after each other (Deuteronomy 15:11) The man went to work and, over the next several years, he tended the flowers and vegetables just as Carl had Treat each other like you treat your friends done. During that time, he went to college, got married, and became a prominent member of the community. But (Matthew 7:12) he never forgot his promise to Carl’s memory and kept the garden as beautiful as he thought Carl would have But most important: Love one another deeply kept it. from the heart (1 Peter 1:22)

One day he approached the new minister and told him that he couldn’t care for the garden any longer. He ex- plained with a shy and happy smile, “My wife just had a baby boy last night, and she’s bringing him home on Saturday.”

“Well, congratulations!” said the minister, as he was handed the garden shed keys. “That’s wonderful! What’s the baby’s name?”

Carl, he replied.

(Editors note: Published in the February 2013 edition of The Light, the monthly publication of SS Constan- tine & Helen Creek Orthodox Church in Webster, MA.)

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

IOCC Helping Others Help Themselves ______INTERNATIONAL ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN CHARITIES

On November 12, 2017 the Metropolitan St. Louis Committee celebrated IOCC's 25th Anniversary at the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church. The evening began with vespers inspired by our Pan-orthodox clergy.

After dinner our keynote speaker, Katrina Straker, IOCC Director of Development and Communications, informed us of that since 1992, IOCC has served people in more than 60 countries by providing over $625 million in services and aid to those in need.

To put a human face on these amazing statistics, Katrina highlighted several individual cases that helped us see the great and diverse work of IOCC. She also reminded us that every dollar we give helps IOCC secure nearly $7 in support from governments, founda- tions, and other funding agencies. They have an admirable record of 92 percent of IOCC's resources going to humanitarian relief and development programs.

We were fortunate again to have IOCC Gift Officer, Nick Kasemeotes, share his thoughts on the work of IOCC this special year. At the end of the program Katrina and Nick an- swered several thoughtful from the audience.

We are happy to announce that due to the generosity of our donors, we are adding to this effort with over $70,000. The local committee wishes to thank its many loyal donors for their continued support of this holy work.

Special thanks to our host, Assumption Greek Orthodox Church and Father Joseph Strzelecki. Thank you to our Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Farid Sadaka, Co-chair Janice Kanteres, Diane Sieckmann who did double duty on donations and reservations, and Vice-president Dorothea Karakas for pulling the lovely evening together. Music by the Biccari ensemble added to the celebration. The entire committee is to be congratulated for their hard work.

Father Michael Arbanas, our spiritual advisor, gave the benediction.

Mary Angelides President, Metropolitan St. Louis IOCC Committee

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) Corner: "The Orthodox Mission Team of St. Louis works to nurture an awareness within our local churches of the need to evangelize, catechize, and support missionary efforts and programs globally."

Reflection on the Nyeri Youth Mission Trip, Kenya, October 2017

Fr. Achilles Karathanos

By the time I was in route to Nairobi via Frankfurt, it kodemos Church to Heaven! After the Liturgy, the chil- seemed a small miracle that we were finally on the way. dren welcomed us, their guests, with an exuberant pro- Our trip had been moved from August to October to gram of singing, dancing, poetry, as well as with an offi- avoid the tense political climate that was escalating with cial ad-dress in perfect English by one of the radiant Kenyan National elections. Who could have predicted girls, Karen. that, once the elections took place, the losing candidate The great warmth and the Christian love and hospitality would take his case of election fraud successfully to the they showed us ignited within us a flame that enabled Supreme Court, and the presidential election would be us to somehow do what we were called to do. We in- repeated in October!? After numerous back and forth structed them in the Orthodox Faith, class after class. between OCMC headquarters, Bishop Neofitos, folks on We taught lessons on prayer and the Holy Sacraments; the ground in Kenya, and us, we concluded that risks we shared lives of saints, and encouraged them to live were minimal, and all would be well in the hands of out their faith in Christ. God. One might wonder, as did I before going to Nyeri, Due to the schedule change, though, we were down to “Couldn’t these children and the older youth and moth- three members of the mission team going, and now we ers have received similar instruction from local clergy had one week to prepare to serve the children of the and catechists?” It is quite possible. But when it comes Makarios Children’s Home in Nyeri, as well as to teach to mission work, there is also something valid to the at the Nyeri Diocese Mother’s Union and Youth Retreat, Scriptural saying that “a prophet is not without honor and at the Diocese Clergy ! Feeling awfully un- except in his own country” (Mt. 13:57). In other words, prepared and overwhelmed, I contacted His Grace, although the content we taught may have been similar Bishop Neofitos, several times, seeking his guidance to what they could receive from local instructors, the fact and direction. About the third time I was asking about that three Orthodox brothers and sisters (and a priest specifics, His Grace gently responded, “Father, please and a nun to boot!) came from across the world to their don’t worry, it will be enough for you to come and hold Children’s Home in the village of Nyeri infused the en- the hand of a child. It is enough just to come.” counter with grace and power. We shared lessons, but “By your prayers, Your Grace, may it be blessed!” Of more than that, we shared our lives and experiences course, while I did my best to trust in the Bishop’s gra- with one another, and the bond of Christ in the Holy cious word, Mother Johanna, Molly and I notched up our Spirit was made manifest. intensity in gathering information, sharing, and coordi- To be honest, I am not so sure that the younger chil- nating our youth program in the few fleeting days we dren, or even most of the older, will remember the theol- had remaining. We packed , purchased as many ogy and symbolism of the Sacraments of Baptism and craft supplies as we could carry, and “talked shop” on Chrismation, which we taught. But I do think they will Skype. With the help of OCMC staff, we were on our remember walking the quarter mile back and forth be- way! Of course, no godly undertaking goes untried by tween the school and the home for meals with the three the evil one. Due to tropical storm Nate, Molly’s flight Americans; I think the girls will remember huddling close was delayed by a day, and so it would only be two of us to Mother Johanna and hearing a word from a real living for the first day. nun; I think they will remember kicking the home-made “Surely,” I pondered to myself, “this schedule that we’ve rag ball around in the dirt, and then receiving a new soc- been given is off by a day.” I couldn’t quite swallow that cer ball, and passing it around with the long-robed after travelling 30 plus hours, and arriving at our final priest; and I am quite certain they will remember high- destination in Nyeri around 1 am, that we would be cele- fiving and holding our hands, because it was in these brating Divine Liturgy and embarking on our first full day things that we shared Christian love, and in which our of teaching at the Children’s Home that same day. But mission was fulfilled. so it was, and so did God’s grace abound! This was no While the Bishop’s words, “It is enough to come and “regular” Divine Liturgy, but a Liturgy sung by a hundred hold the hand of a child,” certainly were generous and and fifty children in unison, raising the tin roof of St. Ni- comforting, they were also filled with wisdom and truth!

------As always, please feel free to contact Rosie Hartley, 618-447-9688, if you have any questions, would like to be part of the Mission Team St. Louis, or if you would like to help our missionaries. Thank you for your continued support! 7

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

House of Needs A Scriptural Meditation

Every Christian house in itself represents an infinitely large house – the universe, heaven and earth, in which the Lord dwells. It is for this reason that one sees in every Christian house representations of the Savior and the Mother of God, listening to the prays of those who live in the house and who call upon Them.

St. John of Kronstadt (My Life in Christ, Holy Trinity Monastery, 1971, p178 part 2)

Your house is that in which you live and move and have your being. Within it dwells your body, heart and God. This little temple of the wood of the tree needs a strong foundation deeply secured on the rock nestled against the side of the hill from whence cometh Thy help, the One Who made heaven and earth.

Your house needs walls to hold up the roof, so that the sun will not smite thee by day nor the moon by night; so that the Psalmist s lone bird on the roof-top will have a place to rest his foot; so that it can serve as ’ veil worn over his shining face (having received the Ten Commandments), when your life within becomes so radiant the neigh- bors would think your house afire!

Your house needs lamps, chandeliers, lampadas in front of the icons, for you see by the light of your eye and by God Who is Light and in Whom there is no darkness at all.

Your house needs rooms for your family members, for in your Father’s House there are many mansions. And for the One for Whom there was no room in the inn — a corner become the center.

Your house needs closets where you can enter in and pray

Your house needs stairs to ascend and descend from one level to another as the angels call to you.

Your house needs water, pure and holy, cool as Jacobs well, warm as the Holy Spirit, dew from heaven gift of tears, an ever-flowing fountain.

Your house needs a chimney to let smoke rise as incense of prayer.

Your house needs windows, icons to look in on you from outer sacred space.

Your house needs doors through which, even closed holiness can pass because it is everywhere present filling all things.

Your house needs beds on which to meditate in your heart and be still.

Your house needs a kitchen where Martha can be concerned about many things, and Mary watch and hear the Word of God.

Your house needs children like olive plants around your table.

And your house needs an oak tree under which you may entertain angels unawares.

“Unless the Lord builds the house, those that build it labor in vain” (Ps. 127:1). Your house needs you and the loving care which you provide for the life of the world within in response to the grace and great mercy of the steadfast love of the Almighty Lord.

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018 Sunday School News

Dear Sunday School Families,

Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed the holidays. As I write this letter, it’s only December 17th so my news for the year ends there. But I will tell you that it’s been a great year so far and it’s been a privilege and a blessing working with a very talented and dedicated staff and co-director.

We will return to Sunday school from the break on January 7th when we will observe the Vasilopita (St. Basil the Great). Jenny Pappas will lovingly prepare the traditional Vasilopita breads for the classrooms that day. Thank you Jenny.

We will also begin our canned food drive throughout the months of January and early February. Please have your children bring in their canned food (the pantry can use more substantial food like stew and canned meats as well as fruits and vegetables). It’s cold and people need help. We send everything to FOCUS, our local Orthodox pantry.

Also in January, we’ll be kicking off our ORATORICAL FESTIVAL. All classes up through 5th grade will participate with a class project while 6th graders through high school will have the opportunity to participate individually with speeches or other independent projects outlined by the diocese. This year, Stavra Ketchmark and Mark Vleisides are the chairpersons. If you would like to help, please contact us. Please encourage your sons and daughters to take part of this wonderful program that not only offers the opportunity to express and articulate their Orthodox faith, but also provides opportunities for public speaking and awards and scholarships.

On January 14th, we’ll recognize the students with outstanding attendance just before communion.

Starting January 5th and continuing each Friday through February 2nd, we’ll have Friday Night Basketball Youth Nights at the Family Life Center (FLC) or St. Nicholas Church from 6-8:30. We’ll have pizza and refreshments available to purchase. It’s a fun way to spend a Friday night when it’s cold outside. We need volunteers for this pro- gram to be successful. Contact me to get involved. Here is the schedule:

GOYA (9th-12th Grade) Deb Palazzola [email protected] 314-591-7519 c January 5th at FLC Mimi Davis [email protected] January 12th at FLC January 19th at Church Junior GOYA (6th-8th) January 26th at Church Caroline Arbanas [email protected] 314-445-4127 c February 2nd at Church Stavra Ketchmark [email protected] 314-792-8402 c

JOY (3rd-5th) As always, we are in need of volunteers for various projects, Rebecca Christophi [email protected] activities and events. Please contact me if you have a couple Georgiana Grant [email protected] 314-420-9159 c hours to spare. Your teachers can always use your help as HOPE (K-2nd) well. Be sure and ask how you can help them. Steph McPherron [email protected] 636-778-0061 h 314-640-0989 c Cherubs (Pre-K) We look forward to another wonderful year with you and your beautiful children. Keep bringing them and we’ll see you in Family Ministry Sunday School. Sophia Pierroutsakos [email protected] 314-596-1506 c

Renee Vleisides [email protected] 314-265-8192 c In His Spirit, Youth Choir Your Co-Sunday School Directors Diana Ott [email protected] 314-550-1573 c Bess Fitzmaurice Despina Hartley Handmaidens Rosie Hartley [email protected] 618-447-9688 c Altar Boys Father Michael [email protected] 314-425-9641 c Church School Bess Fitmaurice [email protected] 314-602-5406 c 9

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018 Junior Goya Social Event

Skating at Steinberg Rink in Forest Park

January 7 – After church

Lunch in the Philoptochos Room, or meet at 12:30 p.m. at the rink.

Cost: $5.00

The Junior Goya Group includes 6th, 7th and 8th graders

Contact Georgiana Grant with questions: [email protected] 314-420-9159 (call or text)

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

MEMORIAL DONATIONS October 10th thru November 10th PARISH LIFE

FAMILY LIFE CENTER CHURCH FUND FUNERALS In Memory of William Paul Lampros In Memory of Eleftheria Manolis Bess Millonas fell asleep in the Lord -Harry & Christine Lemakis -John & Niki Ferris on November 16th, the funeral was -Vasiliki Stratos on November 20th. May her Memory In Memory of Nickoletta Antoniou be eternal. -Mrs. June Pulos In Memory of Nick Zias -Dina, Louis, Kathy & Linda Zias MEMORIALS In Memory of Steve Chalmers † Memorial for departed members of -Mrs. June Pulos In Memory of Jim Lawrence St. Nicholas Philoptochos on -Allison Weiland -Paul Lawrence November 5th -Spanos Consulting: Christina Spanos † Memorial for departed members of In Memory of Bess Millonas Hellenic American Progressive In Memory of Bess Millonas -The Angelo Dendrinelis Family League on November 5th -Victor Martinelli -Thimios & Mary Zanetos † 3 Year Memorial for Elias

-John E. Murphy Malakelis on November 19th -Mr. & Mrs. Martin E. Murphy Sr. & CAPITAL CAMPAIGN † Memorial for Arkida Pancretan Family In Memory of Becky Pliakos Brooks Association of St. Louis on -Lisa Lettenmaier -Ann & Kay Zotos th November 19 -Mike & Jenny Pappas -Cynthia Milonas In Memory of Bess Millonas † 6 Month Memorial for His -Peggy Pierrovtsakos Eminence Metropolitan Iakavos on -Cornerstone Wealth Management rd LLC -Paul & Helen Leara December 3 -Elena & Nick Conits -Ben & Betsy Murphy † Memorial for departing Founding -Alexandra Kamakas Members of St. Nicholas on -Antony & Tasia Cavas th -Katherine Rutter -George & Kim Tarlas December 10 -Chris & Mary Swenson -Jeanne Tompras † 5 Year Memorial Mary (Demetra) th -John & Mary Anne Koch -Sally & Joe Coleman Coukoulis on December 17 -Andrew Efthim -Chris & Tina Paradowski † 25 Year Memorial for Gus -Sam & Maureen Mezines -Ann & Kay Zotos Coukoulis on December 17th -Bill & Geri Kelly -Christina Anastas † 10 Year Memorial for Stella -Lawrence & Rebecca Henry -Michael & Georgia Ferretti Vaccaro on December 17th -Bryant & Nadine Biere -John Milonas & Robert Ramsey † 15 Year Memorial for Frank

-Leon & Johanna Spanos Vaccaro on December 17th -Mary C. Mastorakos RENOVATIONS OF ST. NICHOLAS -John Bauer In Memory of Gus Manoff 40 Day Blessing -Mrs. Marilyn Zimmermann -Georgia Doumouras Lauren Muckler and daughter, Vail Lennon (Patricia) on December 10th PHILOPTOCHOS SOCIETY In Memory of Bess Millonas In Memory of Bess Millonas -Leo & Despina Pashos -Elaine & Bill Coulson -Mary Volas -Dena Marmigas

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

Scrapbooking & Project Day Saturday, January 20, 2018 10am-10pm

$20 Do you have a project that you have wanted to complete (or start)? We have set up the time and space for you!

Traditional & online scrapbooking, sewing, card making, quilting, jewelry making, knitting, needle pointing – all projects welcome!

Wi-Fi & power sources available. Proceeds benefit St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church At St. Nicholas Family Life Center Philoptochos Room 12550 South Outer 40 Dr. 63141

For reservations & questions contact Steph McPherron at [email protected] or 314-640-0989 Please make checks payable to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church & mail to: 1501 Timberbridge Ct. Chesterfield, MO 63017

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

A limited number of DVDs are available of this inspirational and fascinating history of our parish. It is the product of countless hours of research and is a collaboration of three talented members of our parish: Dr. Michael Tsichlis, who provided the written and photographic history, Debbie Dugan, who wrote the script, and Rip Kastaris, who developed the story of our parish in a 17-minute video production with Fr. Doug narrating.

You will want this as a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Buy several to make sure that your children have a copy or that former parishion- ers who have moved from St. Louis can treasure their heritage.

Complete and send the following form along with your check made out to Mike Ferretti, 2367 Baxton Way, Chesterfield, MO 63017

Name: ______Mailing Address: ______

City, State, ZIP ______

No. of DVDs ______@ $8.00 per copy Total Order $ ______

Please Allow 2 Weeks for Delivery via US Postal Service

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

Relax and have fun coloring these cross mandalas

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Monthly Bulletin January 2018

Take some time to relax and color this page of giving Thanks to God

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SATURDAY

HOLY EPIPHANY HOLY

Center

Meeting at Family Life Family at Meeting

eral Membership eral Brunch

10am Philoptochos 10am Gen-

GOYA Ski Trip Ski GOYA

Family Life Center Life Family

ing and Project Day at at Day Project and ing

10am-10pm Scrapbook- 10am-10pm

the Family Life Center Life Family the

Blessing of the Waters at at Waters the of Blessing

10am Divine Liturgy and and Liturgy Divine 10am

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FRIDAY

ball at Church at ball

6-8:30pm Friday 6-8:30pm Night Basket-

ball at Family Life Center Life Family at ball

6-8:30pm Friday 6-8:30pm Night Basket-

GOYA Ski Trip Ski GOYA ball at Church at ball

6-8:30pm Friday 6-8:30pm Night Basket-

FOREFEAST OF EPIPHANY OF FOREFEAST EPIPHANY

ball at Family Life Center Life Family at ball

6-8:30pm Friday 6-8:30pm Night Basket-

ing of the Waters at Church at Waters of ing the

10am Divine Liturgy Bless- and Divine 10am

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Καφενείο Καφενείο

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THURSDAY

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10am Divine Liturgy Liturgy Divine 10am

Life C Life Center Life

10am-Noon Family 10am-Noon Family

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WEDNESDAY

Family Life Center Life Family

7am Men’s Fellowship Fellowship Men’s 7am

Family Life Center Life Family

7am Men’s Fellowship Fellowship Men’s 7am

Family Life Center Life Family

7am Men’s Fellowship Fellowship Men’s 7am

Family Life Center Life Family

7am Men’s Fellowship Fellowship Men’s 7am

Family Life Center Life Family

7am Men’s Fellowship Fellowship Men’s 7am

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J

2

9

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TUESDAY

THREE HIERARCHS HIERARCHS THREE

Group

10am Women’s Faith Faith Women’s 10am

Group

10am Women’s Faith Faith Women’s 10am

Luncheonfollow to

Family Life Center Life Family

10am Divine Liturgy at at Liturgy Divine 10am

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15

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Year

MONDAY

Happy New New Happy

Breakfast to follow to Breakfast

at Family Life Center Life Family at GOYA Ski Trip Ski GOYA

10am Divine Liturgy Divine 10am

Life Center Life

Book Group at Family Family at Group Book

7pm St. Nicholas Nicholas St. 7pm

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SUNDAY

St. John the Baptizer Baptizer the St. John

9:30am-Divine Liturgy 9:30am-Divine

8:00am-Orthos

9:30am-Divine Liturgy 9:30am-Divine

8:00am-Orthos

Event at Family Life Center Life Family at Event

4:30pm Family Ministry Ministry Family 4:30pm

Greeter: Stacie English Greeter:

GOYA Ski Trip Ski GOYA

9:30am-Divine Liturgy 9:30am-Divine

8:00am-Orthos Elaine Coulson Greeter:

Greeter: Sue Sue Katsoulis Greeter:

9:30am-Divine Liturgy 9:30am-Divine

8:00am-Orthos

Steinberg after Church after Steinberg

Junior Goya Social Event at at JuniorEvent Social Goya

Luncheon

Vasilopita Sunday Vasilopita and

Scout Sunday Scout

Greeter: Lyndia Finer Greeter: 18

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St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church NON-PROFIT ORG. 4967 Forest Park Avenue U.S. POSTAGE PAID St. Louis, MO 63108 ST. LOUIS, MO PERMIT NO. 1029 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Please visit us at www.sngoc.org

Philoptochos Philanthropy PHILANTHROPY REPORT January 2018

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord and He will repay him for his deed” Proverbs 19:17

FOOD BAGS for the HUNGRY We are pleased to report that we continue to assist our people in our Confiden- tial Program and we thank you for your support when we need your help.

We hope that you will continue to keep us in your prayers. These are difficult times for many people and your donations of clothing, furniture and financial assistance have allowed us to help our own parishioners & those in January 2018 outreach programs. Vegetable Beef Soup Crackers We are currently in need of furniture for a woman with many needs. A bed and bedding would be very helpful at Deviled Ham this time, but need also other items (small appliances would be good). We are in need of women’s clothing: Slice Peaches shoes: size 9, pants: size 20, shirts: size 20-24—please contact Jeanne if you have any of these items. Baby/children’s Shampoo Hand Sanizer / Liquid Soap (oponal) If you are donating furniture, please contact us first, if possible send an email giving us a description of the furniture and how soon they need to be picked up. We will place your items with our charities and notify you if, or February 2018 when, we can pick them up. We will be pleased to send you a tax form for your records. Vienna Sausages Canned Corn Please continue to fill your food bags, our need for this ministry has grown and is very much appreciated by our charity organizations and our outreach projects. Thank you. Please see the suggested menu next to our Canned Lima Beans message Canned Chocolate/Vanilla Pudding

Powdered Milk If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Johanna Spanos (314) 966-5176 or Jeanne Tompras (314)994- 7667, or Kim Tarlas (314)740-0955 If you cannot reach us, please contact Kathy Ellis at church who will put you in touch with Mary Mezines, a person who will handle your donation. We are grateful for your support. Thank you. Food Bag Chairperson

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