THE ORTHODOX OASIS

Vol. XXXII, Issue VIII, September 2021

Rev. Fr. Andrew J. Barakos, Presiding Priest | [email protected] V. Rev. Fr. Virgil Suciu Rev. Fr. Jacob Saylor | [email protected] Office | [email protected] Tanya Garrison, Accounting | [email protected] 8202 E. Cactus Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Office: (480)991-3009 | Info Line: (480)391-8182 “4” www.assumptionaz.org Summer Office Hours | Monday-Thursday 10 AM to 2 PM LETTER FROM FATHER

THE CHOICES WE MAKE It has been a real blessing for us your priests to speak and listen to our children during the youth sermon every week. If you haven’t figured it out yet, often they write the sermons, and we are just along for the ride. It’s a precious miracle that takes place because of their openness and innocence. I have always thought that God is particularly interested in planting seeds in their souls at this stage of life so He tends to assist and speak in profound and inspiring ways to the hearts of these children. Our heavenly Father intentionally created humanity to begin life as a child dependent upon another for life. Humility is our first condition. At the same time, the first things we learn is that my mother’s life is Eucharistic; her life becomes my life. Dr. Patitsas remarks how in motherhood the six questions of Christ (Matthew 25) are fulfilled. “…when were any of us more hungry, thirsty, naked, physically vulnerable, a stranger, a prisoner, than when we were in our mother’s womb? (Dr. Patitsas, The Ethics of Beauty).” Just as an infant’s body needs another to live, so also our souls need to breathe God’s Spirit to become a living-being, to grow from glory to glory and become a reflection of the Light of God within. We are created as metamorphic beings who are transformed by the Light of Christ as He visibly allowed His disciples to witness on Mt. Tabor. Every created thing starts as a seed, develops over time, has a season of bearing fruit and then dies. We also know that the environment in which life develops has a direct effect upon how something turns out. Too much sun, not enough water, surely leads to death. If our spiritual life is only watered once a week with 1½ hours of “church,” the possibility of growth, development or change, becomes very minimal. It is equivalent to planting a seed each week, giving it some water and then neglecting it so that it fails to sprout. Spiritual transformation cannot occur unless we make the decision to nurture the baptismal seed of Christ implanted in us through a life of prayer which awakens the soul. Prayer sustains the life of Christ in us and allows for spiritual growth and inner transformation. The ultimate goal of all transformation is to love one another unconditionally. Prayer is our prep-work for the Sunday Eucharist. When we cultivate the soil of our hearts through prayer during the week, seeking to live more faithfully in Christ, confessing to our Lord our weaknesses; then the seeds planted by the Spirit of God during the liturgy can begin to bear fruit in our lives. Dr. Patitsas says that an illumined heart transformed by Grace is unable to run away from suffering but can find the anointing in it - “When we behold any suffering person do we see that their suffering is a special anointing that we might, through empathy, also be privileged to share in it? Or, do we see their suffering only as a curse and seek to run from it as fast as possible? (Dr. Patitsas, The Ethics of Beauty).”

2 THE ORTHODOX OASIS WWW.ASSUMPTIONAZ.ORG

There is no doubt that worship is a Theophany but to hear it in the heart takes humility, prayer, patience, perseverance and faith. St. John the Theologian wrote in his Gospel: “Then Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you should eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you are not having life in yourselves. The one who partakes of My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life; and I will raise him up in the last day. For My flesh is true food and My blood is true drink. The one who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him. Even as the living Father sent Me forth, and I live because of the Father, also the one who eats Me, even he shall live because of Me (Jn. 6:53-57).” In a sermon by St. John Chrysostom he speaks on how we have become strangers to heaven. “And what righteous men were to the world, strangers and dead, we are to Heaven. And what they were to Heaven, alive and acting as citizens, that we are to the world. Wherefore we are dead, because we have refused that which is truly life, and have chosen this which is but for a time.” When we become strangers to heaven, we have truly fallen from the glory of our calling as the children of the Light. Once we start reading the Bible, while maintaining a life of prayer, the words of Christ come alive to us and then the dialogue begins. The Word of God is His living presence among us. When we read the Bible with an open heart and a desire to draw near God and humbly seek His will in our lives we have made the choice to no longer remain a stranger to God. Speaking, questioning, seeking understanding and wisdom, become an active dialogue between God and us. This leads to attending an adult catechism, a bible study, a retreat or an appointment with the priest. It may also lead to speaking about God with someone who seems connected and plugged into a dialogue with God. The wise Fr. Schmemann once said, “The whole of the spiritual life is to deal with what we have been dealt.” We inherit from our ancestors propensity to particular sins, no one escapes the gene pool. Cultivating virtue is impossible without beholding holiness in another. All growth is the result of God’s Grace, but all the Grace in heaven cannot penetrate a soul that is unwilling to yield. Sin, guilt, and un-healthy shame, work to demoralize and stop any change from ever occurring but what is needed is a return to being an innocent child once again. “Truly, I say to you, unless you be turned about and become as the little children, you shall not enter into the kingdom of the heavens. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, this one is the greater in the kingdom of the heavens (Mt. 18:3-4).” Innocence allows for mistakes and gives a person the admirable ability to learn from them without having a bruised ego. Innocence sees every moment as an opportunity for discovery and knowledge. Our Lord walked on this earth with innocence, honesty, and identity. He was blatantly frank with the hypocrites and lovingly compassionate with his disciples. He cleared out the Temple with a vengeance and welcomed the children to come unto him. To humble oneself before Christ is to pray for insight that God may reveal to us that which we cannot see. We try to obey the commands of the Gospel and follow Christ, yet, how do we know if we are doing the right thing and are not in a state of delusion? Christ is needed to prune away all that is dead in us. Our Lord was found to be in the company of harlots and thieves, the very outcasts of society. He was openly judged for his associations, but that never stopped him; he was pruning. He came to cultivate the seeds of faith and repentance. Christ is an ever bright light Who reveals all that is hidden within us. With this Light we can re-discover our innocence in Christ and become as children. We can begin to learn joy again. Whatever comes our way is a God-sent lesson. His correction and chastisements remind us we are loved and not forgotten by God. He is just working in us so that the seeds planted in us every Sunday may sprout, come forth and bear fruit abundantly. +Fr. Andrew Barakos

ASSUMPTION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH, SCOTTSDALE, AZ SEP 2021 3 STEWARDSHIP | PARISH COUNCIL

STEWARDSHIP – THE JOY OF GIVING! The word joy may not be the first thing one associates when making offerings to the Church; yet, there exists a special heart-felt joy in the act of giving. But finding this joy and conceptualizing our gift vividly and unequivocally as a direct act of reverence and worship to a person, and specifically to our Lord, is a journey we go through. It doesn’t necessarily come naturally. It’s not obvious or intuitive. It’s potentially an afterthought, but not the forethought guiding decision-making. The journey to reconceptualize what it means to give is a lifelong one. At its best, the Church plays a role in helping to reframe our relationship to things vis-à-vis our relationship to our Lord. This is for our salvation, and it begins by defining stewardship not merely as a vehicle for erecting buildings or painting walls, but as a means of worshipping our Lord. It is a formal acknowledgment that financial assets are not self-earned entitlements to take credit for, but rather, blessings received bestowed by God. The joy of giving also lives in the hearts of those who care deeply for the well-being of others and find it more blessed to give than it is to receive. Giving is one way in which we formally acknowledge the needs around us and take a personal stake in sharing our blessings with our neighbors—some of whom are in the same zip code and some of whom are contents apart. The joy of giving is found when we ask God what it is He wants us to do with the blessings received. Let us give thanks to God for the 307 stewards who have committed $565,458 which is 86% of our stewardship giving goal for 2021! If you have yet to make a stewardship commitment for 2021 please take a moment and do so. We have made stewardship forms available online at www.assumptuionaz.org/stewardship. Making a financial commitment to Christ is first an act of faith which is motivated by our love for Him and becomes the source of our joyful giving. + Fr. Andrew STEWARDSHIP GIVING DOWN FROM JULY OF 2020 Stewardship dropped from $57,353 in 2020 to $31,017 this summer. Overall, Assumption Stewardship Report 86% of our $653,853 2021 Target Goal stewardship is $73,689 lower than it was year-to-date last year. We were very blessed last year with magnanimous contributions to help pay down the mortgage, Range Count Total Under $900 169 $56,225 which we have done. You might be wondering whether a need continues to $1,000 - $1,800 63 $74,444 exist? We have only just begun. Our vision is to build a faith community that $2000 -2,600 23 $51,349 nurtures the needs of our children, singles, married couples, and elderly. We $3,000-3,900 14 $44,000 $4,000-4,800 10 $41,500 are committed to investing in more programs, activities, and staff to expand our $5,000-5,200 13 $65,400 impact on the lives of all parishioners. Similarly, we have been blessed with a 6,000 3 $18,000 wave of new converts to the faith and are devoted to sharing our beautiful faith $7,000 -7,540 2 $14,540 $10,000 4 $40,000 and community with our neighbors. Your continued generosity is what allows us $15,000 2 $30,000 to set lofty goals and think big about the impact we can have on our immediate $25,000 2 $50,000 community, the broader Phoenix community, and even those in need outside $30,000 1 $30,000 $50,000 1 $50,000 Arizona. Thank you. Totals - Pledges 307 $565,458 As you can see from the stewardship table, we honor and respect any and all gifts, viewing them equally as gifts to our Lord. We give thanks for the large gifts from families that have been blessed with that ability in the same way we give thanks for other gifts from those living on fixed incomes. Your gifts are to our Lord and may you receive abundant blessings for your generosity. We have received $383,548 in stewardship this year which is 68% of the pledged amount. The third quarter statement will be sent out in October. As a reminder, statements are not “bills” showing an amount due, but are provided to ensure your checks were received by the Church. We now use an email system for families with an email on file otherwise statements are mailed. If you have not received a statement this year please contact Tanya Garrison in Bookkeeping for assistance, [email protected]. PARISH COUNCIL NEWS The Parish Council applied for and received a $150,000 Federally Funded Faith-based Security Grant to enhance

4 THE ORTHODOX OASIS WWW.ASSUMPTIONAZ.ORG campus safety and will focus on having a secured keyless entry and exit system installed on all the doors to our new facility. The other security feature will be gated entry to the stair wells leading to the second floor. The funds must be used exclusively for pre-specified security action items and cannot be used for any other purpose. HEAVENLY COFFEE HOUSE The Heavenly Coffee House continues to expand its menu. We are now brewing Greek coffee and frappes and carry a variety of Greek items like Filo dough, Spanakopita, Tyropita, Rice Pudding, Kalamata olives and feta cheese. The Café is also featuring artisan breads baked by Mediterra Bake House, a Greek own business that is donating all the proceeds of bread sales to Assumption. At Mediterra, they bake artisan breads using traditional French methods. Instead of commercial yeast, Mediterra bread relies solely on natural sourdough starters called levain, which allow them to achieve their rise, distinct sourdough tang and nourishing nutritional value. The Heavenly Café is open Monday through Thursdays 8 AM until 1 PM and on Fridays until noon. Every Sunday it is open following liturgy! MASKS APPRECIATED The decision to strongly recommend masks during church services was made on the recommendation of the CDC, the Arizona Department of Health Services, and our own local physicians. Assumption is known as a family-friendly church, parents are encouraged to bring their children, and children sermons are given every week. This “ask” is for the sake of these children who are unable to be vaccinated at this time and, in particular, the many families who are concerned about the safety of bringing their children to church, not to mention the immune-compromised elderly. This is a time for the parishioners of Assumption to practice empathy and compassion for our most vulnerable members—our youth, those not vaccinated, and those who are vaccinated but immune compromised (and therefore at elevated risk levels). Thank you! +Fr. Andrew

2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR

WELCOME BACK | Hello Sunday School Families - - Sunday School returns Sunday, September 12th! Youth safety is a priority at Assumption anyone teaching, volunteering or having any interaction with the youth undergo background checks and are required to attend a Youth Ministry Protection Training conducted by Fr. Jacob. This is a requirement of the Archdiocese for all Greek Orthodox parishes. As Covid-19 continues to be a concern, especially among our youngest parishioners, we are strongly recommending that masks are worn in the classroom. The entire Assumption parish family warmly welcomes all children, pre-school (age 4) through high school, to join us for Sunday School classes immediately following Holy Communion. Please know that the spiritual development of the youth begins at the Liturgy which begins at 9:30 AM. Assumption has always been a family friendly community and offers a special youth sermon following the Gospel around 9:50 AM as well. At 9:30 AM we begin our journey to the Kingdom of God, with “Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” and everyone’s presence is needed for the “Amen!” This is our time to make the offering of our lives to Christ our God, let us honor it. Registration for Sunday School is open online with the following link: www.assumptionaz.org/youth#/sundayschool Please also save the date of Sunday, December 12th for our annual Christmas Pageant. We always have openings for volunteers so please reach out with any questions that you may have to our Sunday School Director Maria Sideris and email her at: [email protected]. We are truly blessed to be welcoming back our Sunday School families at the start of the ecclesial year! We look forward to seeing you soon. In Christ, Your Sunday School Team

ASSUMPTION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH, SCOTTSDALE, AZ SEP 2021 5 W e l c o m e B a c k !

S R . G O Y A H I G H S C H O O L M I N I S T R Y 2 0 2 1 - 2 0 2 2 C A L E N D A R

August: 8/30: Youth Ministry Protection Training for Youth Workers Only | 7 pm September: November: 9/8: Sr. GOYA Meeting | 6pm 11/3: Sr. GOYA Meeting | 6 pm 9/18: Valley Wide Youth Event at Holy Trinity | 4:30pm 11/13: Miracle League Volunteer Event 9/22: Sr. GOYA Meeting | 6pm 11/17: Sr. GOYA Meeting | 6 pm 11/20: ASC Golf Invitational Volunteer Event October: December: 10/6: Sr. GOYA Meeting | 6pm 12/1: Sr. GOYA Meeting | 6 pm 10/20: Sr. GOYA Meeting | 6pm 12/11: Sr. GOYA Christmas Party 10/23: Sr. GOYA Event | 6pm 12/15: Sr. GOYA Meeting | 6 pm

If you have any questions or are inter ested in becoming a youth worker, please contact Fr. Jacob Saylor at [email protected]

YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY

COLLEGE STUDENTS & YOUNG PROFESSIONALS (18-29) | YOUNG ADULT ORTHODOX FORUM RETURNS! The Orthodox Forum returns to Assumption Church on Wednesday, September 15, at 6:30 pm! A casual, conversational ministry for college students and young professionals, the Orthodox Forum is a monthly young adult ministry that provides relevant, informed, and candid discussion of far reaching topics and themes relating to our Orthodox faith. A significant face-to-face ministry, set-up in a relaxed, comfortable environment, our goal is genuine interaction and fellowship, and through the exchange of ideas and perspectives, a deepening understanding of our ancient Orthodox tradition and a growing in genuine love for one another. All young adults are welcomed and warmly encourage to attend! Come enjoy fellowship, and edifying, informative conversation. Food and drink are provided. So bring yourself, and invite your friends, and we’ll look forward to seeing you soon! For more information regarding this ministry, please contact Fr. Jacob ([email protected]). Upcoming Orthodox Forum Dates: September 15 October 13 November 10 December 8 January 12

6 THE ORTHODOX OASIS WWW.ASSUMPTIONAZ.ORG GREEK DANCE MINISTRY

Γεια σας and hello! We are absolutely thrilled to gather again, hand in hand, and dance to the music after a long hiatus. Under the leadership of our new Program Director, Evan Tsagaris, we are looking forward to building upon this beautiful ministry of Assumption Church. For any family or dancer that is even merely interested in participating in our program, we will be having a Greek Dance Kick-Off & Mandatory Informational on Sunday, August 29, at 12pm. At this event, we will go over the calendar, program handbook, and other pertinent details. This meeting is required for anyone wanting to dance in the program. After the meeting, we will gather for fellowship, food, and refreshments. All questions can be directed to [email protected]. Stay tuned to weekly emails and bulletins for any other upcoming dance events. OPA!

GREEK SCHOOL

Greek school returns on Tuesday evenings, beginning September 7th at 5:00pm. We look forward to seeing you in class! For more information, contact our Greek School Director, Sandra Papadopoulos ([email protected]).

ASSUMPTION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH, SCOTTSDALE, AZ SEP 2021 7 8 THE ORTHODOX OASIS WWW.ASSUMPTIONAZ.ORG FIRST FRIDAYS YOUTH MINISTRY

FIRST FRIDAYS 2021-22 | RETURNS SEPTEMBER 10! First Fridays will kick-off the year on Friday, September 10, at 6 pm! A hallmark ministry of Assumption Church, First Fridays is a program available to all HOPE, JOY, and Jr GOYA youth (Kindergarten-8th grade). Providing youth with an evening of fun, fellowship, and learning, this parish program is (usually) hosted on the first Friday of each month, September through May. Running from 6:00-8:30 pm, the mission of this monthly activity is to engage our youth in the Orthodox Faith through fun activities, fellowship, and discussion. Parents wishing for their youth to participate should arrive no later than 6:00 pm, and register with our volunteer staff. If you would like to be involved in this ministry, or have any questions, please contact Fr. Jacob ([email protected]). WELCOME MINISTRY

TEAM MEMBERS OF ALL AGES NEEDED Do you have a heart for hospitality? Are you looking for a way to get involved at church? The Welcome Team is looking for volunteers who love God, who love Assumption and who are excited about helping newcomers feel welcomed in our community! Youth, young adults, anyone of any age is welcome to participate. If you’re interested in joining our team, please reach out to Melisa Bill at [email protected] or by phone at 602-538-6734.

ASSUMPTION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH, SCOTTSDALE, AZ SEP 2021 9 ST. BARBARA’S PHILOPTOCHOS

Annual Planning – Please mark your calendars to attend our Strategic Planning Session on Saturday, September 25, from 9:00 AM-2:00 PM in the Community Center. Lunch will be provided. All members and potential new members are encouraged to particiapte and share ideas. Please RSVP to Cynthia Wrasman by September 20, 2021 at [email protected] or call 602-793-0624. Sock Drive – Our annual Philoptochos Sock Drive will be held from September 15th through October 31st. Socks for men, women and children are needed. A box will be set up in the community center entrance for your contributions. Save the Date–Saturday evening, October 2, 2021 – Philoptochos will host their annual Fall Fundraiser, A Night to Remember, a classical concert by world renown Peaceful Pianist, Mark Damisch. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact Carol Kostaras at 817-891-3413 or Maria Kostaras at 480-273-0905. AHEPA CHAPTER 219

Next Meeting: Thursday, September 16, 2021 at 6:30 PM HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CATHEDRAL - JAMES A SPEROS COMMUNITY CENTER If you’d like to join our chapter, please contact Brother Steve Lemere, [email protected] or (770) 990-6825.

MONTHLY OUTREACH MINISTRY OPPORTUNITY | Upcoming Dates: September 18 Join us Saturday, September 18, from 9 AM to 2 PM, as we help to pack bags and stock shelves at Mom’s Pantry. A local food bank, Mom’s Pantry was created due to a significant community need to help families in their struggle against hunger. All prospective volunteers will need to complete a volunteer application and consent form (children 9 to 15 years are permitted, if accompanied by an adult or guardian). Volunteers must wear close-toed shoes. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Christina Pullos (480-577-8993 or [email protected]).

WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB

Our first Book Club discussion this fall will take place on Thursday, September 23rd at 7:00 pm in the Community Center. The book list for this year will be decided upon at our August meeting. You can look for this list on our ministry page on the Assumption website once that meeting has taken place. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Presvytera Andrea at [email protected].

10 THE ORTHODOX OASIS WWW.ASSUMPTIONAZ.ORG ASSUMPTION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH, SCOTTSDALE, AZ SEP 2021 11 12 THE ORTHODOX OASIS WWW.ASSUMPTIONAZ.ORG 2021 STEWARDS | “WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE”

Bradley & Cynthia Abramson Chris & Sophie Evangelides James & JoAnne Kruljac Samuel & Anna Rognstad Catherine Agra Christopher & Elizabeth Exline Irene & Keith Kufner Nicholas Rossi Kyrieckos & Mary Lou Aleck Alexandra & Steven Cheatham Fardelos Dylan & Sophia Lake Lance & Kerri Rouse Laz Amanatidis & Popy Skagos- Timothy & Karla Floor Philip & Theodora Lamantia Nataliya Rubtsova Amanatidis Theodore & Evangeline Fotias Anthony Latonis Jacob & Katherine Rush Frank & Margie Amity Chris Fredericksen & Chelsea Bush James & Nikol Liakakos Linda Samalis Nick & Athena Anastos Charles Gadinis Nicholas & Katherine Liakas John Sampanes Maria Apostolatos & Artin Knadjian Angela Gallios Chris Livanos & Helen Tangalos-Livanos Rev. Fr. Jacob & Pres. Jordan Saylor Will Argeros & Ileana Perez David & Marta Gambaccini Stacy & Ginger Logan John Schneider Ann Argyropoulos Thomas & Tanya Garrison Vincent “Andre” & Mariana Lowe Lucille Scoulas Apostolos Argyros Chris & Anne Gavras Charleen Lucia Matt & Lindsay Seli George & Vasso Athanasopoulos Jordan & Christyann Geotas Christos & Susan Makridis Helen Serelis Sarante “Sandy” & Julie Athenson Dina Gildner Takis & Vanessa Makridis George & Traci Sgouros Athanasios Augoustatos Van Goad & Irene Bafaloukos-Goad Tony & Susan Makridis Hanadi Shraiky Paul & Christine Babey Christian A & Michaela C Gonzalez George & Sharon Maloley Michele Siapkaris Eva Barakos James & Popi Govas Charles & Pamela Manchen Jim & Sandra Skarlis Rev. Fr. Andrew & Pres. Andrea Barakos Mylan & Joanne Grubor Bette Maniatis Derek Smith Lee & Ann Bartol Don Guyan Anna Manos Scott & Helen Smith Tammy Belt Suzanne Guyan & Joey Cyganek George & Peter Manos Sally Solomon Karen E. Bennion Abby Hakim Gregory & Susan Marmas George & Diane Sotos Lou & Judie Beratis Ty & Morgan Harrison Irene Mavrikos George & Effe Sourvanos John & Elaine Bergquist Amelia Hellwig Pamela Maydanis Dimitri & Jewel Spanos Daniel & Melisa Bill Sam & Christina Herron Peter & Christina Maydanis James & Joanna Spear George & Mary Ann Bissias Michael Hiras & Sophia Fountis Michael & Stacie McKenzie Frieda Speropoulos Darrell & Maria Blasi Maria Houpis Ed & Andrea McNamara Jim & Kim Speros James & Joyce Bogues Diane Hubbard Nicholas & Georgia Mellas Pamela Spourgitis Kraus Mary/Lindsay Boss John & Coralia Ioannou Nicholas & Roxana Mellas James & Laurie Stamas Georgia Botsios Tony & Lindsay Ishak Pete Mellas & Vanessa Gutierrez Josephine Stamatakis Frideriki Bourlokas Connie Issichopoulos Stephen Mellas Kimberly Stamatelos Alex & Andrea Boutselis Gerry & Demetria Jacobus Andrew & Joanne Metanias Andrew & Christine Stamatis Elaine Bowman Thomas Janikis Nicholas & Irene Mihailidis Carol Stamos Diana Braskett Jagannath & Penelope Jayaswal George Miller John N Stathakis Mark & Alyssa Brown Daniel & Nicole Johnson John & Denise Millstine Achilles & Janet Stathas Stephen Bull & Lana Gialamas-Bull Gary & Debbie Jones John & Eleanna Mitchell Linda Stehling Tom Burke & Joanna Gonos Kevin & Tina Jones Collin W. & Grace Monk Dennis & Estelle Stell Dean & Mary Burton Rita H Jones Paula Morar & Gabriel Arhire Sean & Stephanie Stephenson Jimmy & Margarita Carres James & Linda Kalivas Constantine & Debbie Moschonas Markos & Pamela Tambakeras Sotera Catsadimas Laurie Kalivas & Robert Gibney James & Irene Mourikes Teddy Tavlarides Steven Cheatham Nick & Mary Kalogeromitros Susie Nakhla Theodore & Kiki Theodorou Bessie Chirbas John Kanios Marc & Terah Nassos Constantino & Karen Theoharatos George & Alexandra Chondropoulos Louis Kanios Tom & Loretta Nations Beth Thliveris Nick & Julie Chondropoulos Nick & Dena Kantaros Bettie Neckopulos John & Patty Throuvalas Eleftherios & E. Diane Christias Marko & Maggie Karakozis Donald & Lorraine Nemer William & Carole Tobey Tony & Roushan Christofellis Jeannie Karamigios William & Sonia New Henry & Lina Torre John & Eugenia Clark Peter & Debbie Karas Nicholas & Rennie Nicholson Gust Tourlis Ronald Collins & Athena Kaviris Petros & Kiki Karidas Chris & Lee Nicolopoulos Joshua & Lucille Tournas Frank & Elaine Columbus Dimitrios & Ekaterine Kariotoglou Kathy Nicolopoulos Trifon & Georgia Tripsas Edward & Pam Conti Rick & Anna Kariotoglou Paula Nicols Evangelos Tsagaris Elizabeth Contos John & Virgina Kavvathakis & Helen Noplos Gust & Barbara Tsikalas Blake & Paras Copenhaver Fanny Kechajias Mary Noplos Sophia Tsikalas Michael & Christina Craig Loretta Kehayes Nicholas & Krista Nowaczyk Georgia Tsikitas Janet Cummings Thomas J Kenrick James & Andrea Ntapalis Konstantinos & Theodora Tsilimidos Nick Daddario Anthony & Nickolette King Florica Doina Onutu Kathy & Panayote Tsokas Thanos & Marguerite Dalianes Harrison Kingsley Maria Ort Marvin & Eleni Tucker Gus Dandas Spiro Kircos Paul J & Erin Panagos Walter & Helena Tuman Zachari Darian William & Meghan Kircos Alex & Toni Pandi Jonathan & Rahal Tuoti Jack & Shannon David Christopher Kireopoulos Anthony & Sandra Papadopoulos Maria Tutelman Michael & Sherine David Louis & Maura Kireopoulos Bill & Soula Papadopoulos Thomas & Bessie Tzavaras John & Mary Deffigos Steve & Jennie Kireopoulos George & Chrysoula Papadopoulos Ray & Dee Unks Chris Demas Kathy Klausing Andrew & Emily Pappas John & Georgia Valos John & Mary Demetropoulos David & Maria Kockinis George & Dorothy Parides Rista Vasilijevic George & Janis Demetrulias Nick & Vickie Koines Nitsa Parides Thomas & Jean Velonis Peter & Sharon Demogenes Michael & Sandy Konstas Ted & Fotini Pasisis Jason & Betsy L Vines Alexandros & Kelly Demos Samuel Konugres Angelo & Joyce Pateras Demetrios & Lydia Vlachos John & Angie Diamantopoulos Thomas & Harriet Kosmitis Mary Patino Helen Vouniozos Leo & Jesse Diamont George & Lia Kossaras Emily Pefanis Nicole Wakamatsu Michael & Joni DiMino Arthur & Carol Kostaras Peter & Penny Pefanis Ed Weiss & Stephanie Demogenes Dorothy Dimtsios John & Maria Kostaras Elenitsa Pena William & Katherine Weiss John & Christina Dimtsios John J. Kostas Rocco & Harriet Perna Cynthia Wrasman Robert Dmitrick John & Valerie Kostas, Jr. Sara Pessimisis George & Helen Yannakopoulos Georgine Donahoe Spiros & Krista Kotsovos Andrew & Angela Poulos Brandon Young & Tatiana Pavlatos Sandra & David Douglas Philip & Angela Koufidakis Steven & Catherine Poulos Nikoletta Zafirakis Kathy Drivaras George & Rosemary Koukouves Christina Pullos Jerry & Amanda Zannis Dwell Boldly Dean & Angela Koumontzis Joanne Reichert J.B. Zarvos Rodney Egnash Michael & Vera Kouvelas Deano & Krisanthya Reiman John & Mary Zias Nick & Angie Eliades Nitsa & Tina Kovas Elizabeth Riethmann Christopher & Anna Zotos George Elias Nickolas & Anna Koziris Mike & Antonia Ristagno Areta Zouvas *as of 8/11/2021

ASSUMPTION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH, SCOTTSDALE, AZ SEP 2021 13 S 9:00 AM Mom’s Pantry 9:00 AM Mom’s VALLEY 4:30 PM & FAMILY YOUTH NIGHT @ HOLY PHOENIX TRINITY, 9:00 AM- 2:00 PM Strategic Philoptochos Planning Vespers Great 5:00 PM 5:00 PM Great Vespers Vespers Great 5:00 PM 6:30 PM Charity Bene fi t Charity 6:30 PM "The featuring Concert - Mark Pianist” Peaceful a Damisch, Philoptochos Event Sponsored September 25 September 2 October September 4 September September 18 September Metropolis Young Adult Adult Young Metropolis - JW 2021 Conference Marriot 3:00 PM Wedding September 11 September F 6:00 PM FIRST FRIDAYS FIRST 6:00 PM Feast of the Protection of the Protection Feast of the Theotokos FRIDAYS FIRST 6:00 PM September 24 September 1 October September 3 September September 17 September Metropolis Young Adult Adult Young Metropolis - JW 2021 Conference Marriot September 10 September T 7:00 PM Book Club PM 7:00 - VESPERAL 5:00 PM LITURGY September 23 September 30 September September 2 September September 16 September Metropolis Young Adult Adult Young Metropolis - JW 2021 Conference Marriot 6:30 AM Men’s Ministry 6:30 AM Men’s Council Parish 6:00 PM September 9 September W 2021 SEPTEMBER 10:00 AM Bible Study (Gospel of John) GOYA Sr. 6:00 PM 10:00 AM Bible Study (Gospel of John) September 22 September 29 September September 1 September Year New Ecclesiastical September 15 September of Cross Elevation 7:30 AM Matins 7:30 8:30 AM Liturgy Small Blessing of Waters 10:00 AM Bible Study (Gospel of John) FORUM YAL 6:30 PM September 8 September Theotokos Nativity 7:30 AM Matins 7:30 8:30 AM Liturgy Senior GOYA 6:00 PM Back! Welcome T School Greek 5:00PM Catechism: PM 7:00 & Life Liturgy School Greek 5:00 PM : Catechism PM 7:00 & Life Liturgy September 21 September 28 September August 31 August September 14 September 7:15 AM Matins 7:15 8:30 AM Liturgy School Greek 5:00PM : Catechism 7 PM & Life Liturgy September 7 September School Greek 5:00 PM : Catechism PM 7:00 & Life Liturgy M September 20 September 27 September August 30 August September 13 September 7:00 PM PM 7:00 Ministry Annual Youth Protection Training 5:00 PM Great Vespers Vespers Great 5:00 PM September 6 September ce Closed Of fi ce S September 19 September for Collection Tray Seminary 26 September August 29 August of St. John Beheading September 12 September 7:45 AM Matins 7:45 of 9:10 AM Point Renewal 9:30 AM Liturgy AM Matins 7:45 of 9:10 AM Point Renewal 9:30 AM Liturgy Food Street “Greek Greek by Fair” hosted Groups Dance 8:00 AM Matins 9:30 AM Liturgy & Kick-Off Dance Greek Informational 7:45 AM Matins 7:45 of 9:10 AM Point Renewal 9:30 AM Liturgy Begins School Sunday September 5 September 8:00 AM Matins 9:30 AM Liturgy

14 THE ORTHODOX OASIS WWW.ASSUMPTIONAZ.ORG ✂ Please Cut Out This “Thank You Ad” Hansen Desert Hills and Present It The Next Time You Mortuary & Cemetery INVEST LOCALLY Patronize One of Our Advertisers 6500 E. Bell Rd. (480) 991-5800 HANSEN Targeting local business makes good “Cents”– Family Owned & Operated MORTUARIES Serving the Orthodox Community Since 1949 Get your name out there by advertising in local www.hansenmortuary.com parish bulletins. Contact us today for your next advertising move and we will work with you for Thank you for advertising in your next “AD THAT WORKS!” our church bulletin. I am patronizing your business Check us out at www.jspaluch.com because of it! Irene Kufner, Owner Call Us Today and Start Saving Money! 602.513.2797 [email protected] www.kufnerbookkeeping.com

Please support the advertisers in your bulletin, and thank them for their continued support. They make your bulletin possible.

The Most Complete WHY IS IT A man wakes up after sleeping Online National under an ADVERTISED blanket Directory of on an ADVERTISED mattress Check It Out Today! Catholic Parishes and pulls off ADVERTISED pajamas bathes in an ADVERTISED shower If You Live Alone You Need MDMedAlert! shaves with an ADVERTISED razor 24 Hour Protection at HOME and AWAY! brushes his teeth ✔Ambulance Solutions as Low as $19.95 a month with ADVERTISED toothpaste ✔Police ✔Fire washes with ADVERTISED soap ✔Friends/Family FREE Shipping FREE Activation puts on ADVERTISED clothes NO Long Term Contracts drinks a cup Grow Your Business, Advertise Here. This Button SAVES Lives! As Shown GPS, of ADVERTISED coffee Support Your Church & Bulletin. CALL Lowest Price Guaranteed! NOW! 800.809.3352 GPS Tracking w/Fall Detection drives to work Free professional ad design & my help! Nationwide, No Land Line Needed MDMedAlert EASY Set-up, NO Contract in an ADVERTISED car Safe-Guarding America’s Seniors Nationwide! 24/7 365 Monitoring in the USA www.jspaluch.com email: [email protected] and then . . . . Catholic Cruises and Tours and The Apostleship refuses to ADVERTISE of the Sea of the United States of America believing it doesn’t pay. Call Claudia Borders Take your FAITH ON A JOURNEY. Later if business is poor Call us today at 860-399-1785 or email he ADVERTISES it for sale. 800.231.0805 (CST 2117990-70) [email protected] www.CatholicCruisesandTours.com WHY IS IT? Your

Medical Alert System ad $29.95/Mo. billed quarterly could Shawn Murphy, MANAGER • One Free Month be in 4800 E. Indian School Rd. • No Long-Term Contract Phoenix, AZ 85018 • Price Guarantee this 602-840-5600 Fax: 602-840-6906 • Easy Self Installation space! www.WhitneyMurphyFuneralHome.com Call Today! Toll Free 1.877.801.8608 [email protected] 103359 Assumption Greek Orthodox Chur www.jspaluch.com For Ads: J.S. Paluch Co., Inc. 1-800-231-0805 8202 East Cactus Road Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Return Service Requested