THE MINISTRY saint barbara greek orthodox church

Spring 2011 volume 15, number 3 Christ is Risen! Truly He Is Risen!

Table of Contents Father Peter’s Message...... 2 Robert Krantz Visits the Saint Barbara Parish...... 39 Journey Toward the Kingdom (Part 2: The Great Litany)...3 Saint Barbara Church 2011 Stewardship List...... 40 Journey Toward the Kingdom (Part 3: The Antiphons)...... 4 Philoptochos Thanks our Parishioners...... 43 ‘Teaching’ Divine Liturgy...... 6 Celebrating Greek Independence Day...... 44 Camp Saint Paul...... 6 Greek Language School Celebrates Greek Independence Day....48 Ο Ακάθιστος Υμνος...... 7 Greek Independence Day Luncheon...... 51 Ο 'Αγιος Αλέξιος - Ο 'Ανθρωπος του Θεού...... 8 Greek Independence Day Parade in NYC...... 52 Living in the Light of the Resurrection...... 10 Greek Independence Day Celebration in Hartford...... 54 Mount Athos...... 13 Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival...... 54 Building Fund Stewards...... 14 GOYA Ski Trip...... 56 Reflections From Our Youth...... 18 Scavenger Hunt...... 58 GOYA Bears From the Heart...... 20 PTO Children’s Fair...... 60 GOYAns Lend a Hand at the Community Dining Room...22 Saint Barbara Senior Men’s Team Wins League Championship....62 GOYA Christmas Caroling...... 24 Connecticut Eastern Orthodox Basketball League...... 64 GOYA Christmas Retreat...... 24 Connecticut Eastern Orthodox Volleyball League...... 65 Sunday School Christmas Pageant...... 26 Saint Barbara Volleyball Team...... 65 The Lights of Saint Barbara: Holiday House Tour...... 28 Saint Barbara Junior Basketball Team...... 66 Annual Taverna Night...... 31 Athletic Teams Go To YALE...... 66 Lecture at Fairfield University...... 32 Saint Barbara Summer Camp...... 67 Philoptochos Hosts Lecture...... 32 Presbytera’s Paragraph...... 68 Annual Golf Classic...... 33 Luminaria...... 68 Godparent Sunday...... 34 Letters to the Saint Barbara Parish...... 69 Saint Barbara Family Retreat...... 36 Sponsors...... 70 Father Peter's Message The Ministry The Official Publication of Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church 480 Racebrook Road, Orange, CT 06477 (203) 795-1347 web site: www.saintbarbara.org e-mail: [email protected] Rev. Peter J. Orfanakos Rev. Joel McEachen

church office hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Wednesday 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm, and Sunday following Services Secretary: Lea Loussides SERVICES Χριστός Ανέστη ! Orthros (Matins) 8:30 am Divine Liturgy 9:45 am Sunday School 9:45 am Fellowship 11:30 am Weekday Services 9:00 am - 11:00 am Father Peter’s Message Summer Hours 8:15 am - 10:45 am “It is the day of Resurrection! O people, let us be radiant. parish council officers It is Pascha, the Lord’s Passover; for Christ God has carried President Andrew Stefanou Vice President Theodore Nicolakis us over from death to life, from earth to heaven, as we sing Secretary Larisa Feliciano a victory hymn.” Treasurer Dennis Kerames Assistant Treasurer Eugene Esares “Come, let us partake of a new drink: not one miraculously brought forth from barren rock, but a spring of immortality, parish council members Peter Ellis William Cambras welling up from Christ’s tomb, from which we draw Ann Meehan Angelo Karakolidis strength.” Valentine Lott Nota Koutroumanis Gus Melanidis Michael Wachter From the Paschal Canon Evans Mountzouris Lou Loukides (Emeritus) My dear friends, Parish Ministries and organizations Parish Council Andrew Stefanou Christ is Risen! The beautiful and most triumphant hymns Philoptochos Society Oly Hadjimichael quoted above are the First and the Third Ode of the Paschal Religious Education Dr. Maria Diamantis Canon. They call us to celebrate the day of Resurrection; Bible Study Rev. Joel McEachen Summer Camp Presbytera Vangie Orfanakos to be radiant; to be glad! For the universe has been born PTO Marcy Winkel anew by the Love of God and Paradise has once again been PATCHES Tina Sanfilippo opened for all of us! JOY Vasilia Kaouris, Stepanie Loo GOYA James Maccone We are called to live our life in the Light of the Resurrection YAL George Loussides Athletic Organization George Loussides of Christ; to understand what it means to be truly free! Saint Barbara Fellowship Chrisanne Burr We are called to be clothed in God’s Light and comforted Greek School Irene Milas, Tina Berner by His welcoming, loving and protective embrace. We are Adult Greek School Nick Loussides Choir Stacy Grimaldi, Harry Pappas, called to praise His Name unceasingly unto to the ages of Stephanie Halepas, Jane Hadjimichael ages! Psalti Peter Proestakis, Efstathios Simos Theo Jenetopoulos I invite you to continue your prayerful participation in the Golden Years Club Louis and Marie Basel services and sacraments of the Church. I encourage you to A.H.E.P.A. George Scarveles Outreach Elaine Johnson continue your life’s journey in faith; volunteering your time Bookstore Bobby Chaltas, Flo Sarigianis and bringing forth the fruits of your talents as an offering I.O.C.C. Tony Delos Endowment Fund Dr. Vagos Hadjimichael to Christ. Scholarship Committee Dr. Elias Lolis Web Site Shaun Berner, Stacy Moran, + Father Peter Deborah Zafiropoulos www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 2 Journey Toward the Kingdom - part 2

Journey Toward the Kingdom: We have peace with God, with whom we are now An Explanation of the Divine Liturgy reconciled (Roman 5:1) and peace with each other as well. In fact, the more we enter into this peace the closer we Part 2: The Great Litany draw to God, and the more powerfully He dwells within Part 1 can be found in the Winter 2010-2011 Edition of The Ministry us.4 “Saint Seraphim of Sarov said, ‘Acquire the spirit of Having declared our defiance of the world in the opening peace, and thousands will be saved around you.’”2 exclamation of the Divine Liturgy, we now take our first step together in the journey toward the Kingdom. The Great Litany contains the opening petitions of the Divine Liturgy. It is referred to as the ‘Great’ Litany, not just because of its length, but also because it sums up the totality of our needs. Through these prayers, the Church “sweeps up the whole world in its great and loving arms, and offers it up to God to be blessed and sanctified and saved.”1

At the beginning of the Divine Liturgy the priest calls the people to prayer for he is appointed to this office and it is for this reason that he is placed before the people. He is also there as their representative and mediator, so that his prayer may be effectual as the apostle James says: “the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” (James 5:16)

At the same time, those for whom he is making supplication (the congregation - the λαός), contribute all they can through their good behavior, prayers, gentleness, justice and anything else which they know to be pleasing So, before we begin this litany, we are called to enter again to God. into the peace of Christ “casting out from our hearts any “In peace let us pray to the Lord.” The Church begins distraction, all turmoil and anxiety, and focusing only on by inviting all to pray “in peace,” invoking first of all “the Christ. Only then can we stand aright before Him and peace from above” and the “salvation of our souls.” It is offer supplication for the needs of all.”3 for this reason that sometimes this litany is referred to as the litany of peace. Peace is fundamental not only to this In this Great Litany the Church also prays for “the peace prayer but to all prayer and in fact to a Christian life itself. of the whole world,” and “the stability of the Churches Without internal peace we cannot know God much less of God.” It prays for “this holy house and for those who come before Him and offer Him prayers of intercession. enter it with faith, reverence, and the fear of God.” It prays for the local bishop by name, “for the honorable Peace is the great and parting gift of Christ to His Church. priesthood, the diaconate in Christ, for all the clergy and On His final night with the apostles the Lord said, “Peace the people.” In this petition, we see the saving synergy I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world (cooperation) of the Church in action. gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27) The Church also prays for the physical world on which Before Christ, warfare raged in the cosmos and in our we all depend. We pray for “seasonable weather, for hearts as well. His saving death on the Cross and the abundance of the fruits of the earth, and for temperate shedding of His precious blood, brought peace to all. seasons,” to harvest these gifts. (Colossians 1:19-2.) By repentance and faith,we enter The Church continues by praying for those in special into this saving peace. www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 3 Journey Toward the Kingdom - part 3

distress and danger: for “travelers by land, by sea and by air.” (in ancient times travel was especially dangerous), for “the sick and the suffering,” for “captives and their salvation.”

In fact, the Church prays for our deliverance from “all affliction, wrath, danger and distress.” To each of these petitions and needs the faithful lift up the cry, “Lord, have mercy!” (Κύριε ελέησον).

Rev. Lawrence Farley, in his book about the Divine Liturgy explains, though the English word ‘mercy’ has a rather juridical feel (recalling the plea of a condemned man for mercy and pardon from a judge), the Greek has a wider meaning. In this repeated response, the Church prays not only for pardon but for blessing, strength, rescue, Journey Toward the Kingdom: the total outpouring of God’s generosity. “The ‘mercy’ we beg is the equivalent of the Hebrew term hesed, which An Explanation of the Divine Liturgy is translated not simply as ‘mercy’ but also ‘steadfast Part 3: The Antiphons love,’ or ‘loving kindness.’ When we pray over and over After concluding the prayers of the Great Litany the again, ‘Lord, have mercy!’ We are beseeching the God gathered assembly of the faithful takes three more steps of our Fathers to lift us up from all the pits into which toward its destination of the Kingdom by singing the we stumble.”4 _____ three antiphons. The antiphon is a hymn originally sung 1 Let Us Attend: A Journey Through the Orthodox Divine Liturgy, with alternating voices or choirs (antiphonally). It is now Rev. Lawrence Farley, p. 17. used to designate the three opening hymns of the Divine 2 Ibid., p. 18. 3 Ibid., p. 18. Liturgy. 4 Ibid., p. 20. These antiphons have a fascinating history. Unlike today, when each parish in a city functions separately like a self- contained unit, in the days of Saint John Chrysostom (4th century) in cities like Constantinople, all of the Orthodox Churches formed a single integrated whole.

The Divine Liturgy was celebrated in the main Church on Sundays and all of the people of the city traveled to that Church to participate in the service. The people of the city belonged to the main Church, but also went to other smaller churches together when called to do so, such as on feast days.

On the feast day of Saint John the Baptist for example, the people would form a procession to go from the main Church to the Church of Saint John to celebrate the Liturgy there. They would sing hymns as they went. These hymns were the antiphons. In the days of Saint View a recording of the Teaching Liturgy John Chrysostom the cantor would chant a verse or two On our Parish Web Site: of the psalm and the people would sing the refrain. The http://www.saintbarbara.org/live_services.cfm cantor would chant the next few verses of the psalm,

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and the people would sing the refrain again, and so on. Between the antiphons of praise the priest offers prayers. The people came to like these hymns so much that they Originally, when the people sang the antiphons in eventually became a fixed part of the Liturgy, even when procession on the way to Church, the deacon introduced there was no procession on the way to Church. each prayer by saying, “Let us pray to the Lord!” after which the priest said a prayer and the people responded The antiphons sung in Church in the 8th century included by saying, “Amen.” Psalm 92 with the refrain “Through the prayers of the Theotokos, Savior, save us!,” Psalm 93 with the refrain As time went on, the priests began saying their prayers “Save us O Son of God… Alleluia!,” and Psalm 95 with silently and the deacon expanded his invitation to prayer the hymn “Only-begotten Son,” written by Emperor by including other petitions as well to give the priest time Justinian in the 6th century, as its refrain. to say his prayer quietly. Thus the small litany was born, with the deacon chanting the intoning petitions, “In Everything that is alive continues to grow and develop. peace let us again pray to the Lord,” then “Help us, save This includes the living us, have mercy on us and liturgical tradition of the keep us O God, by Your Church. Thus the way grace.” And then finally, that the Church sang “Commemorating our the antiphons continued most holy, pure, blessed to develop as well. In and glorious lady, the the 12th century some Theotokos and ever monks in Constantinople Virgin Mary....” After the began the innovative deacon finished the small (at that time) custom litany, the priest would of substituting Psalms intone the final exultation 103 and 146 and the of his prayer so that the Beatitudes for the normal people could respond antiphons at the Sunday with the “Amen!” Liturgy. The prayers offered after the first and second antiphons Today some churches follow this custom while others are not simply “filler,” but a cry to God from His children, follow the original custom of singing the Psalms 92, 93 and asking Him to preserve us and accept us as we draw closer 95 as antiphons. Whichever hymns are used, all liturgies to Him. We ask Him to save us and bless us and preserve today begin with the singing of three antiphons. the fullness of the Church by filling us with Himself and His glory. We ask Him to sanctify us since we love the The exuberant praise of God that forms our early liturgical beauty of His house and come there to worship Him. steps into the Kingdom is no accident, for our spiritual life consists of praise. Christ recreated us for this very As we place our hope in Him, we ask that He abide in us purpose, to “proclaim the praises of Him who called you forever, remembering that Christ promised to be “present out of darkness into His marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9) when two or three are gathered in My Name” (Matthew 18:20). These prayers reveal why we dare to draw near to “Praising God is not simply one thing we do; it is God and dare to “walk in procession right into His holy everything. All that we do must be an act of praise, for presence: since we are no mere collection of ordinary God calls us to offer ourselves to Him as a doxology of people, but the Church of the living God, His inheritance, living flesh and blood. The psalmist sings, “Let every His joy, His covenant people.”2 breath praise the Lord” (Psalm 150:6) and as disciples of Christ we strive to fulfill this, making our every action, Finally, during the third antiphon the clergy and their every thought and intention an offering of praise to our attendants (Altar Boys) make a procession with the God.”1 Gospel. This is a carryover of the original practice of

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the clergy entering the church for the first time at the direct archdiocesan district summer camp program beginning of the Divine Liturgy, bringing the Gospel with them. Camp St. Paul 2011 sleep over camp In the days of St. John Chrysostom, the clergy would enter the church with the Gospel book and go straight into the altar so that the service proper could begin. Rev. Lawence Farley notes that the “Gospel book was carried for a practical purpose only - the deacon (who kept the Gospel book in his home for safekeeping) brought it with him to church so that he could read it during the service.”

Now that the Church keeps the Gospel on the altar table, the carrying of it in procession has a deeper meaning: it shows that Christ is among us, and we venerate the Gospel book as we would Christ, carrying it reverently, with joy, in high triumph, with an honor guard of lights.

We sing the antiphons and all the hymns of the Divine Liturgy not in memory of one who is dead and parted from us, but rather as an expression of joy at finding Christ alive in our midst. The Gospel procession during the third antiphon reveals what our thunderous singing is all about. _____ 1 Let Us Attend: A Journey Through the Orthodox Divine Liturgy, Rev. Lawrence Farley, p. 24. 2 Ibid., p. 26. _____ Resources: A Commentary on the Divine Liturgy, Nicholas Cabasilas. Week 1: July 4 - July 10 Let Us Attend: A Journey Through the Orthodox Divine Liturgy, Rev. Lawrence Farley. Week 2: July 11 - July 17 The Byzantine Rite: A Short History. American Essays in Liturgy, Robert F. Taft. Week 3: July 18 - July 24 The Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom, Holy Cross Orthodox Press. The Eternal Liturgy, Rev. Theodore Stylianopoulos. All Three Weeks - Sold Out!! “Teaching” the Divine Liturgy Father Peter recently led the community through a prayerful, instructive “Teaching” Divine Liturgy. He paused at points throughout the service to offer in depth explanations of various parts of the Divine Liturgy.

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την Δογματικήν θέσιν της Θεοτόκου εις την Ορθόδοξο Εκκλησία. Ο Υμνος αυτός ωνομάζεται και “Χαιρετισμοί” από το Χαίρε του Αρχαγγέλου Γαβριήλ κατά τον Ευαγγελισμόν. Επεκράτησε δε να ψάλλεται κατά τας Παρασκευάς την Μεγάλης Τεσσαρακοστής εις Τέσσερες στάσεις, έξι Οίκους κατά κάθε Παρασκευή. Την τελευταίν Παρασκευή ψάλλονται όλοι οι Οίκοι μαζύ. Εις τον Ακάθιστον Υμνον περιγράφεται εν ολίγοις, είς την πρώτην στάσιν ο Ευαγγελισμός, αι αμφιβολίαι της Μαρίας, η επίσκεψις της Ελισάβετ και το όνειρον του Ιωσήφ. Εις την δευτέραν στάσιν εξιστορείται η Γέννησις τού Κυρίου, η προσκύνησις των Μάγων, των ποιμένων, η φυγή εις Αίγυπτον και η ευλογία του Συμεών. Είς την τρίτην στάσιν αναφέρεται η νέα εν Χριστώ ζωή εν ουρανοίς, η παρουσία τού Θεού μεταξύ των ανθρώπων, η Ο Ακάθιστος Υμνος αδυναμία των αγγέλων και των ανθρώπων να εννοήσουν το Μυστήριον της Θείας Οικονομίας. Υπο Πρωτοπρεσβυτέρου Παναγιώτου Ι. Ορφανάκου Εις την τετάρατη στάσιν περιγράφεται η Παναγία Το ιστορικόν της συγγραφής του Ακαθίστου Υμνου, ως Μήτηρ Θού, το Φώς πού οδιγεί εις τον Χριστόν πού η Αγία μας Εκκλησία ψάλλει κατά το διάστημα και η προστασία όλων των Χριστιανών. της Μεγάλης Τεσσαρακοστής, είναι ότι το έτος 650 Εν ολίγοις, ο Ακάθιστος Υμνος εμπέει εις τον μ.χ. οι Πέρσοι ήσαν έτοιμοι να εισέλθουν εις την χριστιανόν την ευσέβειαν προς το Ιερόν Πρόσωπον Κωσταντινούπολιν. Ο τότε αυτοκράτωρ Ηράκλειος της Παναγίας Θεοτόκου. με τον στρατόν του ευρίσκετο εις την Παλαιστίνην καί μόνον ολίγοι υπερασπισταί είχαν μείνει εις την Άγγελος πρωτοστάτης, ουρανόθεν επέμφθη, Πόλιν. ειπείν τή Θεοτόκω τό, Χαίρε καί σύν τή ασωμάτω φωνή, σωματούμενόν σε θεωρών, Κύριε, εξίστατο, Ο Πατριάρχης Σέργιος ευρισκόμενος προ τού καί ίστατο κραυγάζων πρός αυτήν τοιαύτα κινδύνου, διέταξεν όπως όλος ο λαός να λιτανεύσει γύρω από τα τείχη της πόλεως με τας εικόνας Χαίρε, δι’ ής ή χαρά εκλάμψει του Χριστού και τής Παναγίας επικαλούμενοι την χαίρε, δι’ ής ή αρά εκλείψει. βοήθεια του Θεού. Χαίρε, τού πεσόντος Αδάμ η ανάκλησις Ξαφνικά μία μεγάλη κατοιγίς εξηγέρθει και χαίρε, τών δακρύων τής Εύας ή λύτρωσις. κατέστρεψε τον στόλον του εχθρού. Ετσι θαυμαστώς η Παναγία επενέβει και έσωσε την Πόλιν. Χαίρε, ύψος δυσανάβατον ανθρωπίνοις λογισμοίς Εις έκφρασιν ευχαριστίας και ευγνωμοσύνης χαίρε, βάθος δυσθεώρητον, καί Αγγέλων προς την Πολιούχον τής Πόλεως, την Παναγίαν, οφθαλμοίς. εψάλησαν διά πρώτην φοράν οι χαιρετισμοί, καθ’ Χαίρε, ότι υπάρχεις Βασιλέως καθέδρα όλην την νύκτα εις τον ναόν των βλαχερνών χωρίς ο λάος να καθίσει, δι’αυτό και ο Ευχαριστήριος χαίρε, ότι βαστάζεις τόν βαστάζοντα πάντα. αυτός Υμνος ωνομάσθηκεν Ακάθιστος. Χαίρε, αστήρ εμφαίνων τόν Ήλιον Ο Υμνος αυτός είναι ένα θαυμάσιο θρησκευτικόν χαίρε, γαστήρ ενθέου σαρκώσεως. ποιήμα προς την Μεγαλόχαρη. Αποτελείται δε Χαίρε, δι’ ής νεουργείται ή κτίσις από 24 τροπάρια, Οίκους, τα οποία περιγάφουν την ζωήν του Χριστού οπως την είδεν η Παναγία χαίρε, δι’ ής βρεφουργείται ό Κτίστης. Μητέρα Του. Τα τροπάρια “Τη Υπερμάχω”, “Την Χαίρε, Νύμφη ανύμφευτε. Ωραιότητα”, και “Το Πρασταχθέν” περιγράφουν

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Ο 'Αγιος Αλέξιος προσευχήθηκαν και έπειτα με σύμφωνη γνώμη της ευσεβούς νέας ο Οσιος έφυγε να πάη μακρυά από Ο 'Ανθρωπος του Θεού την Ρώμη σε ξένο τόπο. Ντύθηκε όσο μπορούσε Υπο Πρωτοπρεσβυτέρου Παναγιώτου Ι. Ορφανάκου πιό φτωχικά και κατέβηκε στην παραλία. Με την Ο Οσιος Αλέξιος γεννήθηκε στην Ρώμη. Ο πατέρας βοήθεια του Θεού βρήκε πλοίο που έφευγε γιά του Ευφημιανός ήταν ο πρώτος της Συγκλήτου. την Συρία. Μπήκε μέσα και όταν έφθασε στην Ηταν άνθρωπος συνετός πλούσιος και ενάρετος. Λαοδικία, ο Οσιος κατέβηκε γιά να συνεχίσει το Η μητέρα του Αγλαία ήταν γυναίκα ευλαβής και ταξίδι του διά ξηράς. Στην Εδεσσα της Συρίας βρήκε ενάρετος. Είχαν όμως μία λύπη, γιατί δεν είχαν έναν Ναόν όπου υπήρχε η αχειροποίητη εικόνα του αποκτήσει παιδί. Παρακαλούσαν, λοιπόν, τον Χριστού. Εκεί αφού εμοίρασε στούς φτωχούς ότι Χριστό με πολλή πίστη να τούς δώσει παιδί. Ο Κύριος είχε μαζύ του, έμεινε φτωχικά ντυμένος και ζητούσε άκουσε την προσευχή τους ελεημοσύνη, την οποίαν έδιδε εις τούς φτωχούς καί η Αγλαία γέννησε υιόν και κρατούσε λίγα μόνον τον οποίον ωνόμασαν για το ψωμί του. Ολη Αλέξιον. την νύχτα προσευχόταν. Από την πολύ εγκράτεια Ο μικρός Αλέξιος και σκληραγογία μεγάλωσε μέσα σε εξαφανίσθηκε η ομορφιά ένα περιβάλλον πού τού προσώπου του, πλημμύριζε από αγάπη, μαύρισε η όψις του, χριστιανική αρετή και ξεράθηκε το δέρμα και τα καλωσύνη. Ανεδείχθει μάτια του και εφαίνοντο ένας υποδειγματικός, τα κόκκαλά του. ταπεινός και σεμνός νέος. Εσπούδασε όχι Εν τω μεταξύ οι γονεις, μόνον τα Εκκλησιαστικά συγγενείς, η άμοιρη συγγράμματα, αλλά και νύμφη φόρεσαν μαύρα και την κοσμική παιδεία. θρηνούσαν τον χαμό του Απ’ όλη την μελέτη αγάπημένου παιδιού τους. κατάλαβε ο Αλέξιος την Εστειλαν ανθρώπους σε ματαιότητα του κόσμου, διάφορα μέρη και πόλεις και ότι η ψυχή είναι γιά να τον βρούν. Ηλθαν αθάνατη. Αποφάσισε, και εις την Εδεσσα, είδαν λοιπόν, να απαρνηθεί τον φτωχό και κουρελιάρη τα παρόντα αγαθά της πού ζητούσε βοήθεια και ζωής σάν πρόσκαιρα, του έδωσαν ελεημοσύνη. για να κληρονομήσει τα Ο Αλέξιος τούς εγνώρισε, άφθαρτα και αιώνια. συγκινήθηκε και δόξασε τον Θεό πού τον αξιώσε Οταν ο Αλέξιος έφθασε σε κατάλληλη ηλικία, οι να δεχθεί ελεημοσύνη από τούς δούλους του. γονείς του επέμεναν να τον νυμφεύσουν. Τότε ο Οσιος πέρασε μιά μεγάλη κρίση καί δύσκολη Ο Αλέξιος έμεινε στο νάρθηκα τού ναού εκείνου στιγμή. Ο Θεός όμως οικονόμησε τα πράγματα δέκα επτά ολόκληρα χρόνια. Οι κάτοικοι τού τόπου και βγήκε απο το αδιέξοδο. Βρέθηκε μία κόρη πού τον τιμούσαν σάν Αγιο. Επειδή φοβήθηκε την και αυτή ήθελε να μείνει άγαμος και επιέζετο απο φήμη, μήπως εξ αιτίας της επιγείου δόξας χάσει την τούς γονείς της να παντρευτεί, και συνεφώνησαν ουράνια δόξα, σκέφτηκε να φύγει σε άνγωστο τόπο. να στεφανωθούν αλλά να μείνουν παρθένοι και να Επείρε πλοίο να πάει στην Τάρσο της Κιλικίας στον εκπληρώσουν την κατά Θεόν επιθυμία τους. Ναό τού Αποστόλου Παύλου. Καθώς όμως έπλεαν, σηκώθηκε αντίθετος άνεμος καί πηγαίνοντας εδώ Ηρθε η ημέρα των γάμων τους. Εγινε το Μυστήριο, και εκεί έφθασαν στη Ρώμη. Ο Αγιος κατάλαβε ότι οι χοροί και η διασκέδαση. Κανένας όμως δεν αυτό ήταν οικονομία Θεού. Γιά να μην επιβαρύνει ήξερε το μυστικό τους. Την ίδια νύχτα, λένε οι κανένα σκέφτηκε να πάει να μείνει ως άγνωστος Συναξαρισταί, οι δύο νέοι αφού έμειναν μόνοι, στο σπίτι του μέχρι το τέλος της ζωής του.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 8 Ο 'Αγιος Αλέξιος - Ο 'Ανθρωπος του Θεού

Αφού πρώτα προσευχήθηκε στο Θεό να τον Γονάτισαν, ασπάσθηκαν το Αγιο Λείψανο του με βοηθήσει να μείνει άγνωστος, ήλθε εις το σπίτι τού μεγάλη ταπείνωση και τον παρακαλούσαν να τούς πατέρα του και του είπε: «Παρακαλώ την ευγένειά δώσει το χαρτί. Ο Αγιος τότε άφησε το γράμμα, το σου να με ελεήσης και να με αφήσης να καθήσω διάβασαν δυνατά και άκουσαν όλοι ότι αυτός ήταν σε μιά γωνιά του παλατιού σου να τρέφωμαι απο ο Αλέξιος. τα ψίχουλα οπού θα πέφτουν απο το τραπέζι των Επακολούθησε μεγάλη χαρμολύπη. Επρεπε δούλων σου, γιατί είμαι ξένος και φτωχός, και ο να πενθήσουν τον θάνατον η να πανηγυρίσουν Θεός να σε ευλογήσει γι’ αυτή την καλωσύνη σου, την εύρεση. Πολλά θαυμαστά γεγονότα και αν έχεις κανένα συγγενή σου στα ξένα να σε επακολούθησαν. Κωφάλαλοι εμίλησαν και αξιώσει να τον δείς όπως επιθυμείς». άκουσαν, δαιμονισμένοι γιατρεύτηκαν, λεπροί Ο άρχοντας θυμήθηκε τον γιό του, εδάκρυσε και καθαρίστηκαν και πολλές άλλες αρρώστιες τον παρέδωσε σε ένα δούλο να τον φροντίζει σε ότι εξαφανίζοντο μόλις οι ασθενείς ασπάζοντο το χρειάζεται. Τού έστελνε καθημερινά φαγητά από ιερό λείψανό του. Μιά εβδομάδα παρέμεινε σε το τραπέζι του, αλλά ο Αγιος έτρωγε λίγο ψωμί και προσκύνηση το ιερό λείψανο και εν συνεχεία το λίγο νερό μόνον κάθε Κυριακή. Ημέρα και νύχτα έθαψαν εις τον Ναό του Αγίου Πέτρου. Απο τον επροσεύχετο. τάφο του ανάβλυσε ευωδιαστό μύρο με το οποίο Εμεινε στο πατρικό του σπίτι έτσι φτωχός, γιατρεύτηκαν πολλοί. άγνωστος, και ταλαιπωρημένος με πολέμους απο Ο Οσιος Αλέξιος εκοιμήθει στις 17 Μαρτίου του 410 τον διάβολον για δέκα επτά ολόκληρα χρόνια, και την ημέρα αυτή εορτάζομε την μνημη του. οπότε ο Κύριος του φανέρωσε ότι την επομένην Παρασκευή επρόκειτο να αναπαυθεί απο τούς Ανθρωπόν σε έγνωμεν Θεού, κλήσει τε καί πόνους και τα βάσανα. Ζήτησε τότε από τον δούλον πράγματι ταίς αρεταίς γάρ διέλαμψας, πτωχείαν πού τον υπηρετούσε να τού φέρει χαρτί και μελάνι άμετρον, καί στενοχωρίαν, επί γής κτησάμενος, και έγραψε σε αυτό όλα όσα του είχαν συμβεί και καί θαύμασι πιστούς πιστωσάμενος διό ικέτευε, ποιός ήταν. Αφού έγραψε αυτά ο Αγιος έμεινε δωρηθήναι ταίς ψυχαίς ημών, τήν ειρήνην, καί προσευχόμενος μέχρι την ώρα πού έφυγε γιά τον τό μέγα έλεος. ουρανό. Εν τω ματαξύ ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος Ιννοκέντιος Ερωτι δροσίζοντι σαρκός, έρωτας φλογίζοντας, ιερουργούσε στον Ναό των Αγίων Αποστόλων της εναποσβέσας Αλέξιε, θαλάμου θάλαμον, Ρώμης. Τότε ακούστηκε φωνή από τον Ουρανό ευσεβώς ηλλάξω, ηδονής τε σώματος, τήν πού έλεγε: Την Παρασκευή ο «άνθρωπος τού θείαν τών Αγγέλων ομοίωσιν μεθ' ών ικέτευε, Θεού» βγένει από το σώμα του. Ζητήσατε του δωρηθήναι ταίς ψυχαίς ημών, τήν ειρήνην, καί να παρακαλέσει γιά την πόλη για να μείνετε τό μέγα έλεος. ανενόχλητοι. Την Πέμπτη το βράδυ έγινε ολονύκτιος αγρυπνία We know you to be a man of God both in name στον Ναό των Αγίων Αποστόλων, και παρακαλούσαν and in deeds; for you did shine forth in virtues while τον Θεό να τους υποδείξει να βρούν τον δούλον possessing on the earth poverty unbounded with all Του, τον «άνθρωπον του Θεού» όπως τον ωνόμασε straitness and distress; and through your signs and η ουρανία φωνή. Στην αγρυπνία ήσαν παρόντες wonders, the faithful were persuaded of the truth. O ο Αρχιεπίσκοπος, ο Βασιλεύς, ο Ευφημιανός και Alexios, intercede with Christ that He grant peace and πλήθος πιστών. Κατά τα ξημερώματα ακούστηκε great mercy to our souls. πάλι φωνή από τον Ουρανό πού έλεγε: «Στό σπίτι τού Ευφημιανού υπάρχει ο «άνθρωπος του Θεού». With love which refreshed you like the dew, you did Τότε κατάλαβε ο Ευφημιανός ότι επρόκειτο γιά quench all burning fleshly love, exchanging in piety εκείνον τον άγιο πού είχε κοντά του. Ετρεξαν όλοι the bridal chamber here for that bridal chamber, και βρήκαν τον Αγιο ξαπλωμένον με το πρόσωπο trading bodily delights for the divine resemblance of σκεπασμένο ενώ στο δεξί του χέρι κρατούσε Angels. Hence, Alexios, with their choirs, intercede το χειρόγραφο, πού προσπάθησε να το πάρει ο with the Lord our God that He grant peace and great Ευφημιανός, αλλά δεν μπορούσε. Ξεσκέπασαν το mercy to our souls. Saint Alexios - Man of God πρόσωπό του και είδαν ότι έλαμπε σάν άγγελος. www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 9 Living in the Light of the Resurrection

belonged and it was also a lot of fun! We need Christ in our homes because it is here where we learn about life and relationships. We learn how to love, how to be patient, and how to forgive. In our homes we learn what to expect from others and what to do when people don’t meet our expectations. We learn what to value in the world and how to live in it. Our homes are where our souls our shaped in the day-to-day activities of life. The light of Christ needs to be in that place as that is happening - illuminating all. The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear. The Lord is the strength of my life, of whom shall I be afraid. Psalm 27:1 But what do we do with this light when we bring it into our house? How do we bring the light of Christ into our homes, into our families? Where do we put it? Does it have a place in our homes? Does it have a place in our hearts? First, let’s talk about physically bringing the light of Christ home. Where do we place this candle in our home? The light came from the altar of the Church and belongs at the altar area, or prayer area, of the home. Does your home Living in the Light of the Resurrection have a space, part of a room or maybe in the hallway, that is set apart for family prayer? Do you gather as a family By Dr. Philip Mamalakis for prayer? Do you have a place to keep a candili—a One of the beautiful traditions we have in the Orthodox vigil light—that can be lit with the Paschal light? In that Church is our Paschal Resurrection service. With the place you might hang your icons, maybe keep a censer, church darkened, the priest comes out with the light of some holy water, a palm from Palm Sunday, a bible, a Christ, proclaiming, “Come receive the light, the Light of prayer book, and maybe a book of hymns. This place is Christ, who illumines those in darkness.” The altar boys set apart to come together as a family to pray, read the and parish council members swarm forward and the light Bible, and to sing on a regular basis. We need to prepare slowly makes its way throughout the church, filling it a special place in our homes to receive the light of Christ. with brightness. This is such a powerful experience that We weren’t always successful bringing the Paschal light many people who do not set foot in church all year will home. Some years the light blew out—sometimes from still be present at this one service. the wind, and sometimes from a sibling, who worked I remember this well as a child. After the service, diligently to extinguish the other’s light. So, what exhausted and wired, we would try to see if we could happened when the light is extinguished? Do we ever bring the light home. Sometimes it would be windy or blow out the light of Christ? Absolutely not! We know rainy and our goal would be just to get the light to the car. that as Christians, we don’t just carry the light of Christ, Once in the car, we tried to get the light home without we are the light of Christ. And on Pascha, we bring that burning anyone’s hair. Sometimes, we were successful! light of Christ into our homes as we carry the light of Weary-eyed, holding an open flame in the car, (which I’m Christ in our hearts. Does the light of Christ have a place sure was a fire hazard) we were determined to bring the in our hearts? The purpose of the external traditions and light of Christ into our homes. Why? Because our homes practices of the Church is to nurture the internal reality are the places where we live our lives, spend most of our of living with Christ in our homes by living with Christ days, and we knew that this is where the light of Christ in our hearts. www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 10 Practical Strategies for Living the Light of the Resurrection

“You are the Practical Strategies for Living the Light light of the of the Resurrection world.” This issue we ask parents: How do you keep the light of Matthew 5:14 the Resurrection alive after Pascha? For fifty days we “We really focus on the fact that the Resurrection doesn’t live in the light of end on Pascha—the Church gives us 40 days to celebrate the Resurrection. it. We add “Christ is Risen” to our daily prayers and we That is, we receive light our Pascha candle as a physical reminder of Christ’s the light of Christ coming out of darkness.” – Lia and Dean, parents of seven in our hearts by children ages 10-21 living according to the Light, as “Bringing the Light of Christ home means continuing children of God, all the good habits we have established through Lent according to and giving the “light” out to others. By continuing to the values and pray, serve the needy, and witness to others in our daily virtues of the activities, we keep the light of Christ bright.” –Tammy, Kingdom of God, mother of two teenage daughters according to His “We have a special lantern that we take to church to bring commandments, the light home. The lantern goes with us everywhere after which are lights that guide us. We live in the light of the Resurrection. If we go to a restaurant, it is with us. If the resurrection by living as peacemakers (James 3;18), we go to someone’s house the next day, we take it with nurturing forgiveness (Matthew 6:12-16), learning to us. We keep this lantern lit the entire 40 days following love (Matthew 22:35-40; I Corinthians 13:3), being slow Pascha.” – Margo, mother of a 15-year-old son to anger and quick to listen (James 1:19), hungering and thirsting after righteousness (Matthew 5:6), being patient, From the Resurrection Service kind, longsuffering, gentle (I Corinthians 13:4)—OK, It is the Day of Resurrection! Let us shine forth in that doesn’t sound much like mealtime at my home. splendor for the Festival, and embrace one another. Let That’s because we are still working towards this goal—or us say, “O brethren, even to those, who do not love us; let rather—Christ is still working towards this goal in us as us forgive all things in the Resurrection, and thus, let us we walk in the light of His resurrection. exclaim: ‘Christ is risen from the dead, trampling death by death, and bestowing life to those in the tombs.’” As we receive Christ into our hearts, by striving to live Doxastikon as Children of God in our homes, we experience that warmth and peace in our homes that comes from the Family Activity Corner: Share the Light Light of Christ—from the love of Christ that shines “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill forth on Pascha. We are invited on Pascha night to take cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it home the light in our cars, that we may take it home in under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to our hearts. all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before Christ is Risen! men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”- Matthew 5:14-16 Dr. Philip Mamalakis and his wife, Georgia live in Boston Massachusetts with their seven children (ages 3-17). Dr. What are some ways we as a family can share our light Mamalakis is the Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care at Holy with others? Here are a few things that you and your Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, where he also helps family can do to celebrate and spread the light to all you coordinate the Field Education Program. He has a Master of come across. Divinity from Holy Cross, and a PhD in Child Development and Live the Faith - Sharing the light mean proclaiming the Family Studies, with a specialization in marriage and family from Gospel of Christ. This has less to do with what you say Purdue University. www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 11 Practical Strategies for Living the Light of the Resurrection

and more about what you do. Read the Bible as a family days, morning and evening prayers, communion prayers, and discuss God’s commandments for our lives. Use the confessional prayers, etc) as well as prayer lists. Let each sacraments of the Church as tools to bring you closer to person decorate their prayer book. For younger children Christ and participate in them regularly. who are not yet reading, use pictures to assist them in their prayers. Include icons of Christ, the Theotokos, Challenge - Each week before the Divine Liturgy read that Sunday’s Gospel reading as a family. Discuss how their patron saint and a guardian angel, to remind them you can take the lesson of the Gospel and apply it to to pray for their intercession. Additionally, add pictures your daily life that week. At the end of the week, discuss of people that they wish to pray for (family members, how this impacted your life and how you will continue friends, people in need, etc.). Add to your prayer books to live the Gospel in your life. Use the Family Gospel regularly. Lesson at www.family.goarch.org to assist your family in Reach Out - Involve your children in charity projects this challenge. both in your local community and globally. Make charity and serving others a regular part of your family life. Pray for Others - Teaching children to pray is a critical tool for their spiritual development. As they grow, teach Challenge - Find a local or global charity project that them to pray for people in poverty, pain, and those who your children can support. Some ideas to get started: have never learned about Christ. volunteer at a food kitchen, raise money for mission priest (www.ocmc.org), or put together a school kits for Challenge - Create your own family and individual prayer books. Include favorite prayers (patron saints, feast children in impoverished countries (www.iocc.org).

Did you miss the 60 Minutes Feature on Mount Athos? View the entire episode and bonus features on-line. The link below that allows you see the entire 60 Minutes feature on-line. http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/04/21/60minutes/main20056101.shtml?tag=contentMain;contentBody Also you can view some behind the scenes footage at: http://www.cbsnews.com/60minutesovertime

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 12 Mount Athos

impression was made perhaps by the Athos peninsula’s pristine nature: “People come for the beauty, tranquility and isolation.”

Simon and his colleagues understood the heartbeat of the monks: “Their sole purpose is to get closer to Christ every day,” he said. The place is built for that, both in what it contains: some of the most ancient and holiest relics and icons on earth and magnificent chapels and churches where the Divine Liturgy is performed 1000 times per day, and what is excluded: cell phone, newspapers, radio and televisions.

The monks go there “not just to isolate themselves from the world today, but to let go of all memories of their past life,” the show noted. After Fr. Iakovos quoted St. Paul’s urging Christians to “pray unceasingly” there was a brief introduction to the Jesus Prayer and its place in Mount Athos Orthodox spirituality, which he said monks recited until From the 60 Minutes web site it became like breathing. On Easter Sunday evening, the news show 60 Minutes Slowly the visitors began to grasp why Mount Athos, focused its cameras on Mount Athos. If you missed offering Divine Wisdom and spiritual knowledge, seeing the original episode, I encourage you to follow the receives more applicants per year than Harvard. Simon, links on the previous page and watch the episode on-line. watching the monks chanting marveled, “Some of these As the story was being covered, CBS correspondent voices, especially the basses, could have made it at the Bob Simon noted, they ‘run on Byzantine time’ as the Metropolitan Opera.” He said: “The depth of their new day begins at sunset. The program was presented devotion defies description.” with reverence and awe. Simon began by intoning: “It’s a remote peninsula in northern Greece that millions At another point in the show, Simon made a most believe to be the most sacred spot on Earth. It’s called profound statement, “Athos has probably changed less in Mount Athos and prayers have been offered there every the past 1000 years than anyplace else on earth.” Simon, day, with no interruption, for more than a thousand years. deeply moved, concluded by saying, “It’s a Spartan way CBS must have felt they waited at least that long to get of life, but all the monks we talked to said they never in: “For more than two years, we’ve been corresponding, want to leave, not even for a day.” negotiating and, frankly, pleading, for an invitation, but ran into one monastic wall after another. Then, much to our surprise, and delight, a few months ago, the monks invited us to visit. “Fr. Iakovos, described as one of the few Americans at Athos, told Simon, “Your persistence convinced us.”

The content of the program naturally reflected a modern American outlook: the guests were fascinated by the health and longevity credited to the monastic kitchens – Mediterranean diet in overdrive. They were very curious about how ancient builders could suspend eight, nine, and ten story buildings on sheer cliffs – “It’s a miracle it hasn’t fallen into the sea,” Simon noted. The greatest www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 13 Building Fund Stewards

AHEPA Chapter #98 Mr. & Mrs. John Benham Mr. & Mrs. Michael Albanis Mr. & Mrs. Shaun Berner Total Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Alessio Mr. & Mrs. James Bitzonis Mr. Alex Alexiades The Buzelle Family Amount Elia Alexiades Sophie Caloutas Mr. & Mrs. Antonios I. Amoratis Mr. & Mrs. William Cambras Mr. Iakovos (Mike) Amoratis Miss Conella P. Chagares Pledged Mr. Ioannis (John) Amoratis Mr. & Mrs. Constantine Chagares Number of Pledges: 332 Anasson-Waskiewicz Family Basil G. Chaltas, Jr., Anne Abramson Total Pledged: $2,078,737 Mrs. Christine Anastasion Mr. & Mrs. Basil Chaltas Total Collected: $1,140,670 Mr. & Mrs. Damon Anastasion Mr. & Mrs.Thano Chaltas as of May 1, 2011 Mr. & Mrs. George Anastasion Mr. George Chatzopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Peter Anastasion Child of God 2,500,000 Mrs. Evelyn Anastasiou & Gregory Mrs. Christine Choban Mr. & Mrs. Peter Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Robert Chomiak 2,400,000 Miss Elise Andreas Mr. & Mrs. James Chow 2,300,000 Miss Ellen Andreotis Mr. John Christopher Mr. & Mrs. Gary Andrews Mr. & Mrs. Aquiles Constantinidi 2,200,000 Mrs. Cally Angeletti Mr. & Mrs. George Contopoulos Anonymous A Mrs. Melissa Papantones Corradino 2,100,000 Anonymous B Mr. & Mrs. Michael Cosmas 2,000,000 Anonymous C Carolyn Rambus & Shawn Cowper Anonymous D Mr. & Mrs. Edwin Cox 1,900,000 Anonymous E Mr. Leroy G. Dabakis 1,800,000 Anonymous F Mr. & Mrs. A. Paul Dalakas Anonymous "Little Angels" Mrs. Elsie K. Dambakelis 1,700,000 Mr. & Mrs. George Anthis Mr. & Mrs. Peter Daniel 1,600,000 Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Antonakis Dr. Lycurgus Davey Vasiliki Anton Mr. & Mrs. Peter DeBassio 1,500,000 Mr. & Mrs. George Antonellis Mr. George Delegorges Mr. Theodore Antonellis Fred & Reneé Del Percio 1,400,000 Mrs. Asimina Antonellis Mr. & Mrs. Peter Demetropoulos 1,300,000 Stephen and Ioanna Anzenberger Mr. & Mrs. Fotios Diamantes Mrs. Catherine Aportria Mr. & Mrs. Ilias Diamantis 1,200,000 Mr. & Mrs. William Arabolos Persefone Dikegoros 1,100,000 Nick and Maria Aretakis Mr. & Mrs. Richard DiMeola Mr. & Mrs. George Arnaoutis Mr. & Mrs. Pantelis Efthymiou 1,000,000 Mr. & Mrs. Kostas Athanasiadis Dr. & Mrs. John Elefteriades Mr. & Mrs. Ernie Athan Miss Chrisanne Eleftheriou 900,000 Adam & Dina Bajko Mr. & Mrs. Peter Ellis 800,000 Steven & Debbie Baklas Mr. & Mrs. Stelios Emmanouil Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Bakoussis Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Esares 700,000 Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Baledes Mr. & Mrs. David Esposito 600,000 Christine & Gerald Baldino Evero Corporation Mr. & Mrs. James Ballas Mr. & Mrs. George Faraclas 500,000 Mrs. Lisa Ballas Mr. & Mrs. Donald Feliciano Mr. & Mrs. Paul Ballas Feola-Prentiss Family 400,000 Miss Petrina Ballas Mr. & Mrs. Augoustis Fifis 300,000 Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Banores Miss Maria Galanakis Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Barakis Mr. & Mrs. Peter Gekas 200,000 Mr. & Mrs. Edward Basel Miss Claire Genetos Mr. & Mrs. Louis Basel Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Gerakelis 100,000 Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Belales Mr. & Mrs. Georgios Giambanis Mr. & Mrs. James Benas Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Giannopoulos

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 14 Building Fund Stewards

Mrs. Dorothea Giatrelis Mr. & Mrs. Stan Kontogiannis Mr. & Mrs. William Morris Mr. & Mrs. Emmanuel Gionteris Mr. & Mrs. Konstantine Kostas Mr. & Mrs. Evans Mountzouris Miss Elaine Goumas Mr. & Mrs. John Koukos Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Mouratidis Miss Lucy Goumas Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Koutroumanis Mr. & Mrs. George Myzithras Great Lakes Telecom Mr. Constantinos Koutroumanis In memory of George Necklas Mr. & Mrs. Konstantinos Grigoriadis Mr. & Mrs. George Koutroumanis George & Georgia Necklas & Family Dimitrios & Renie Groumousas Mr. Peter Koutroumanis Mr. & Mrs. Michael J. Necklas Nikki & Nontas Mr. & Mrs. Peter V. Koutroumanis Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Niarchos Mr. & Mrs. George Guiliotis Mr. & Mrs. Paul Kovlakas Mr. & Mrs. Nelson Nicholson Mr. & Mrs. Gregg K. Guiliotis Mrs. Harriet Kral Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Nicolakis Christos & Jane Hadjimichael Mr. & Mrs. George Kydes Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Nuzzo Evangelos & Olympia Hadjimichael Mr. & Mrs. William Kyrtopoulos John-Peter Iakovos Orfanakos Dr. & Mrs. Harry Hajedemos Nicholas G. Laggis Rev. & Mrs. John P. Orfanakos Miss Mara L. Halepas Haralambos Laopodis Rev. & Mrs. Peter J. Orfanakos Mr. & Mrs. Peter Halepas Mr. & Mrs. Peter Laskos Mr. & Mrs. Michael Overbye Miss Stephanie Halepas Mrs. Christine Lavey Mr. & Mrs. John Palavra John N. Haskos Mr. & Mrs. Elias Lolis Pete and Brenda Pantelis Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas J. Haskos Cindy & Fred Lord Mr. & Mrs. Kostas Papadopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas P. Haskos Mr. & Mrs. Michael P. Losh, Sr Mr. & Mrs. Kyriacos Papadopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Neil Hathaway Mr. & Mrs. Robert W. Loskant Mr. & Mrs. Matheos Papadopoulos Peter & Michele Hatzidimitriou Mr. & Mrs. Bradford Lott Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Papadopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Theodoros Hatzigiannis Dr. & Mrs. John Loucopoulos Mr. & Mrs. George Pappas Mr. & Mrs. Alexander Heonis Mr. & Mrs. James Loukakes Mr. & Mrs. Harry Pappas Mrs. Despina Heonis Mrs. Poppy Loukakes Mr. & Mrs. John Pappas Ms. Anastacia H. Herbert Mr. Louis Loukides Mr. & Mrs. Michael Pappas Mr. & Mrs. Nikolaos Hionis Miss Kiki Loussides Mr. & Mrs. Dimitrios Pavlou Robyn Alexandra Hoffman Mr. George Nicholas Loussides Mr. & Mrs. George Pavlou Mark & Eleni Hojnowski Mr. & Mrs. Nick Loussides Mr. & Mrs. James Perrone Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Maccone Family Evan & Regina Petrakis Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Hoxsie Mr. & Mrs. Konstantinos Maniatis Mr. & Mrs. George Poulos Mr. & Mrs.Thomas W. Hubbard Mr. & Mrs. Peter Maniatis Ms. Irene Pournaras Miss Sophia Iosifidis Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Maniatis Helen Proestakes Mr. & Mrs. Panagiotis Iosifidis Mr. Alexander Marathas In Memory of Constantine P. Proestakes Theodore N. Iosifidis Mrs. Catherine Marathas Mr. & Mrs. Peter Proestakes Mr. & Mrs. Stuart Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Patric Marchitto Mr. & Mrs. Peter Proestakis Mr. & Mrs. John Kaiser Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Marnerakis Mr. & Mrs. John Raho The Kambas Family Mrs. Mary Mattie Mr. & Mrs. Paul Redding Mr. & Mrs. Tasos Kanakis Mr. William Mavrides Mr. & Mrs. William Redding Mr. & Mrs. George Kaouris The Mayor Family Mrs. Mary Reed Mr. & Mrs. Stelios Kapernaros Mr. & Mrs. Harold McGrath Ms. Robyn Reilly Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Karakolidis Miss Anastasia Meehan Mr. & Mrs. Chad Rogers Mrs. Stavroula Kariofyllis Mr. & Mrs. Ioannis Melanidis Gregory & Robin M. Romanovsky & Sons Mr. & Mrs. Manos Katevatis Mr. & Mrs. Konstantinos Melanidis Dr. & Mrs. Gary Rothrock Aphrodite Katramados Mr. & Mrs. Peter Melanidis Isidro & Stavroula Rueda Nicholas & Sophia Kattis Mr. & Mrs. John Mihalakos Tracey & Greg Russo Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Kefalas Mr. & Mrs. Gino Milani Saint Barbara Golden Years Mrs. Elizabeth Kerantzas Mr. & Mrs. Nicolaos Milas Saint Barbara GOYA Ms. Barbara Kieslich Mr. & Mrs. Vic Mitchell Saint Barbara Greek School Mrs. Anna Kirtopoulos Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Monaco, Jr. Saint Barbara Philoptochos Society Mr. & Mrs. Charles Kittleman Brian, Stacy & Darin Moran Saint Barbara PTO Mr. & Mrs. Peter Klarides Mr. & Mrs. Constantine Moriatis Dr. & Mrs. Louis Sanfilippo Mr. & Mrs. John Kokenos Mr. George Moriatis Miss Soultana Saoulidis Mr. & Mrs. John J. Kollias Miss Maria Moriatis Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Saoulidis Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Konstantino Mrs. Linda Morris Mr. & Mrs. James Sarigianis Philip & Mary Morris Mr. & Mrs. John Sarris www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 15 Building Fund Stewards - Architectural Rendering of Saint Barbara Gymnasium

Miss Argyro Nikoletta Scarlatis Mr. Andrew Stavrides Mr. Paul Vartelas George J. Scarveles & Family Mr. & Mrs. Steven Stavrides Mr. Theodore Vartelas George & Christine Sellas Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Stefanou Mr. & Mrs. Gregg Vautrin Dr. & Mrs. Kirk Shelley Mr. & Mrs. William Talnose & Family In memory of Anastasia Viola Mario & Arhonti Simmons Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Tambis Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Viola Efstathios & Demitra Simos Mr. & Mrs. James J. Terzakis Mr. & Mrs. Panagiotis Vlahos Mr. & Mrs. Tim Simoulis Mr. & Mrs. Carl Testo Mr. & Mrs. Elias Vlandis Mr. & Mrs. John Skitzis, Sr. Mr. & Mrs. George Theodos Mr. & Mrs. Herbert Wachter Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Soennichsen Mr. Paul Theodos Mr. & Mrs. Michael Wachter Mr. & Mrs. Vasilius Sofokleous Drs. Paul & Yota Tjimis Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Wagner Mr. Frank Soter Mr. & Mrs. Frank Tomaszek Mr. Roger Wm. Wheeler Mr. John Soterakos Alex & Madeline Trasacco & Family Mr. & Mrs. James Winkel In memory of Konstantinos & Sofia Paul & Corine Tsakonas & Family Mr. & Mrs. Steven Yates Sousoulas Mr. John Tsilfoglou Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Yorgakaros Dr. & Mrs. Paris Spanolios Mr. & Mrs. Timmy Tsopanides Mr. Fredrick Yost Mrs. Paris Stamos Heath & Family Mr. & Mrs. Basile Tzovolos Mr. & Mrs. Dionisios Zafiropoulos Mrs. Lisa Stamos Heerdt & Family Mr. & Mrs. Paul Tzovolos Mr. & Mrs. Panagiotis Zafiropoulos Mr. & Mrs. Gregory J. Stamos UI-Energy Incentive Mr. & Mrs. Frank Zaino Mr. & Mrs. Paul Stamos Mr. & Mrs. George Vagenas & Family Mr. & Mrs. George Zikos Mr. Peter Stamos Virginia Valaki Mr. & Mrs. Nikolas Zikos Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Stavrides Mr. Jonathan Vartelas Mr. & Mrs. Manoli Zorgias & Family "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the faint- hearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all." 1 thessalonians 5:14-15 The requirements of harmonious life in community include the honoring of sacramental leadership, pursuit of good works, continual prayer and thanksgiving in worship, and proper regard for the prophetic gift and spiritual discernment. This passage and commentary is from The Orthodox Study Bible, p. 1627.

Basketball/Volleyball Court - Exercise Room - Locker Rooms with Showers Youth Room/Office - Snack Bar - The AHEPA Room The above is an architectural rendering of the Saint Barbara Gymnasium

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 16 Growing in Faith and Commitment: The Commitment of Our Children

Growing In Faith and Commitment: We thank the following children for thier participation: The Commitment Of Our Children Sozon Albanis Diamantis Kefalas Marianna Albanis Nicholas Kokenos “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he Preston Alessio Stephanie Kokenos will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 Sara Alessio Sotirios Korosiotis All of the members of our Sunday School and Greek Alexandra Alexiades Niko Koutroumanis Language School Programs were given small banks in the Amelia Andrews Gabriel Lawrence spring of 2007 to assist them in making their stewardship David Andrews Maria Legatos commitment to the building drive of our Church. Julia Andrews Andreas Lolis George Antonellis Costa Loucopoulos The children were encouraged to offer a portion of their Stephanie Antonellis Georgia Loucopoulos allowance or consider doing 'special chores' around the Sylvia Antonellis Christen Maccone house and offer a portion of this money, which they Alexander Baklas John Maccone earned, for the continued growth of their church. On the Chris Benham Ashley Mitchell last Sunday of each month, the Sunday School children John Benham Caity Mitchell have been asked to bring in the monies collected during Kallista Berner Ephemia Nicolakis that month in a bag, with their name on it, to the Church Luke Berner Kassiani Nicolakis where it will be collected and counted. Zachary Berner John-Peter I. Orfanakos Elena Bielesz Kristin Pantelis Please take time to notice the special poster that has been set up in the education center highlighting the names of Jacob Bielesz Elias Papadimitriou the participating children and marking a running tally of Elias Bitzarakis Alex Perrone the total amount raised by all of our children. At the Samantha Buzelle Angie Perrone end of the fund drive, the names of these participating Veronica Buzelle Nick Perrone children, will be honored in a unique and permanent way Emma Cowper Anjelika Servetas in the new building. Matthew Cristiano Michael Servetas Paul DeBassio Katerina Spanolios Peter DeBassio Alessandra Sperry Tennyson Delos Zachary Sperry Philip Ellis Alexandria Stefanou Elli Emmanouil Theo Stefanou Anthony Esposito Jason Talnose Katie Esposito Chelsea Tambis Allison Faraclas Taylor Tambis Kristen Faraclas Alexander Terry Benj Feola Gabriella Terry Evangelos Feola Annie-jorden Tomaszek Hari Halepas Zachary Tomaszek Sophia Halepas Aubrie Velleca Anna Kaiser Krystina Velleca Caliope Kaiser Eleni Wagner Eleni Kaiser Robbie Wagner Maria Kaouris Christopher Winkel Each child received a special bank to contain their church donation Peter Kaouris Patrick Winkel contribution. Barbara Kefalas Alex Yates www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 17 Reflections From our Youth

Reflections From our Youth accepting the fact that I too will soon have to move on. The following speech was delivered by James Maccone, the President of But no matter where I move on to, GOYA will always the Saint Barbara GOYA, during our Youth Sunday celebration. be a favorite part of my past that will continually guide I have been a member of GOYA since the age of 12, my future. The sense of family that GOYA gives me and am currently president. Through my involvement in provides tranquility and peace amongst all the hustle and GOYA I have attended numerous dances, retreats and bustle of the everyday life. outreach activities. Each year Saint Barbara’s GOYA My GOYA family has enabled me to take a step back sponsors an annual day at Holiday Hill for the surrounding from the rest of the world, take a deep breath and then Orthodox communities in New England and participates move forward. As president I have had the privilege of in other social gatherings such as our annual Ski trip and teaching the next generation how to do the same. Enjoy outing to Six Flags. In addition, the time you are given and share GOYA proudly participates in it with the ones you love. many community benefiting On that note today is Godparent events including volunteering at Sunday. It is similarly a day the Branford Community Dining in which we take the time to Hall, donating Build-a-Bears to express our gratitude and love the Ronald McDonald House, and for our Godparents and extended building scarecrows for charity. members of our church families. My personal favorite is our annual Godparents are another way of fall weekend retreat to the YMCA sharing our faith and bringing Camp Jewel. The purpose of this loved ones closer to our hearts. retreat is not only to have fun, They create ties that strengthen but to become closer with one distance family relationships another. From the moment we beyond culture, expanding arrive Friday night, we spend every our knowledge of faith and second of the weekend together continually help in the formation participating in unifying activities, of our basic beliefs. With that in staying up late and watching mind, I would like to end with an movies. On Saturday we travel expression from an anonymous around the camp doing various team-building activities. writer, “Fragrance always stays on the hand that gives the Every year we amaze the staff with how merged our rose”. So remember to always share that love and you group is as we break their latest team-building exercise will never be without it. Thank you. records. In the evening, we have discussions about our Greek Orthodox faith with Father Peter and followed by s’mores and a movie. The mood on Sunday morning is always melancholy as everyone packs for the trip back, remembering about “real world” awaiting us at home. During this time I begin to notice how we have grown, individually and as a whole over the years. We have had new members Saint Barbara Scholarship Applications join and old members move on to college and some are now available are even starting their own families and beginning to send their children to GOYA events. Over the years in the Church Narthex or online at: we have all developed this sense of being a family, and www.saintbarbara.org/news/scholarships/index.cfm we treasure these moments together. As my presidency Scholarship Deadline: June 15, 2011 slowly comes to a close and this year ends, I am gradually

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 18 Reflections From our Youth

Reflections From our Youth and as busy as ours, it’s impossible not to make many The following speech was delivered by Georgia Loucopoulos, one of the strong and lasting friendships. We are all united by our two Vice-Presidents of the Saint Barbara GOYA. faith and culture, which form special bonds that can’t As a senior in high school, I have about five months left be made everyday at school. Despite the fact that we until my graduation. This is also about the same amount only see each other about once or twice a week, I feel of time I have left as a GOYAn. Since seventh grade, I like we’re all one big family and GOYA helps bring us have been a happy participant in our GOYA community. even closer. My friends here have made GOYA events We have many events and one of the most loved is our and other events like Odyssey, extremely fun, which annual ski trip at Ski Sundown, which I have had the has enabled me to grow as an Orthodox Christian. pleasure of going to every year. Learning about our faith with friends has shown me the I will never forget my first ski trip. importance of being an Orthodox There I was, a little twelve-year-old, Christian in a world where religion without a lot of skiing experience. is seen as another hobby. Thanks After my beginner’s lesson I continued to the help of my GOYA friends, I skiing down the bunny slopes with a will be able to use the strength and little more confidence. I eventually faith I acquired maneuvering around decided to go inside the lodge and, moguls to overcome the bigger hills as I approached our tables, I was further along the trail. suddenly surrounded by worried I’m ever so grateful that my friends parents. I soon found, with much were able to convince me to go down embarrassment, that not only was I that big slope, because now it’s not the last person to check in by about so scary anymore. In fact, that’s the an hour, but I was also suppose to be slope we go down the most. This skiing with a buddy. So they took me Saturday, my fellow seniors and I outside to find a buddy. Naturally, I will be going on our last ski trip. For was nervous because I didn’t know if me personally, it’s very sad because anyone would want to stay with me on it only shows us how much closer the bunny slopes. I didn’t want to go we are to being done with GOYA. all the way to the top of the mountain. Next year we will be in college and, However, before I knew it, that’s exactly where I was although the internet will help us stay in contact with our going because all the GOYAns were up there. Needless friends here, we won’t see each other as often. Five years to say, I was petrified as we were going up the ski lift. ago I started that ski slope, and now, too soon, I will We took the easiest slope down, but I was still scared reach the end of it. I won’t be going on the ski lift back because I was going so fast and I kept falling. We finally to the top, as much as I will want to. That seat has already reached the bottom and I was still recovering from shock been reserved for a new GOYAn. Next year, I know that when I found some of my friends heading towards the GOYA will continue to help preach God’s word and be bunny slopes. I joined them without a second thought just as unifying, just as fun, and just as supportive as it and the rest of my day was great. was when I first joined. I will always feel very fortunate It took three years for me to gain enough courage and and blessed to have been a part of it and I can’t wait to skill to willingly go down that slope again, and it was see what future generations will add. Thank you. only with the help and encouragement of my friends. Often times, when the trail of life seems overburdened by “moguls” like homework, extracurricular activities, sports, and now college applications, it feels good to be able to come to church, sit down with my friends and talk it out and relieve the stress. In a community as close

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 19 GOYA - Bears From the Heart

GOYA Bears From the Heart by Matthew Redding A teddy bear is like a friend, there for you whenever you need it and always ready to listen, cuddle and keep you company. On February 22nd our GOYA went to the Build-a-Bear workshop at the Trumbull Mall and created teddy bears for the children at the Ronald McDonald House in New Haven who are battling various illnesses. On March 12th the GOYAns delivered 22 bears and three cases of baby formula to the Ronald McDonald House. It was heartwarming to see the joy on the kids faces when they received their special bears. Our GOYA participated as part of a Direct Archdiocesan District wide event with other GOYAns throughout New York and Connecticut. In all, over 150 bears were delivered to the Ronald McDonald House in New York City and New Haven. Our GOYA has enjoyed doing this event for the past three years and hopes to continue doing this every year.

The pictures on pages 28 and 29 depict some of the GOYAns and their creations from the Build-A-Bear Store, as well as a group picture from our trip to the Ronald McDonald House in New Haven and our visit with a few of their residents.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 20 GOYA Visits Ronald McDonald House in New Haven

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 21 GOYAns Lend a Hand at the Community Dining Room

GOYAns Lend a Hand at the Community Dining Room Several groups of members of the Saint Barbara GOYA together with their parents volunteered their time and talent several times over the past few months at the Community Dining Room in Branford. The GOYA has worked many times this past year in support of the Community Dining Room, helping with their Scarecrow fund raiser in the fall, and cooking and serving meals several times in the both the fall and winter. Founded in 1985, the Community Dining Room is a private, not- for-profit organization providing food, support and companionship to our shoreline neighbors. With the assistance of its volunteers the Community Dining Room serves over 3,500 meals each month, serves hot lunches daily in their dining room, and hosts special dinners at Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 22 Letter of Thanks to the GOYA - GOYA Lenten Retreat

GOYAns Participate in Lenten Retreat Dear friends of the Community Dining Room, Members of our GOYA participated in the annual Lenten It is my great pleasure to thank you for your Retreat that took place at Saint George in Hartford, generous support of the Community Dining room Connecticut, together with nearly fifty other teenagers in 2010. Your contribution to the success of our from the State, the retreat was led by His Grace Bishop 14th Annual ‘Make Your Own Scarecrow’ event, at Savas and was entitled: ‘Faith and Film.’ His Grace Bishop’s Family Orchards helped raise more than examined and discussed many Christian images found in $9,000. As a result of this event our Fund Raising various modern and popular films. This page contains efforts for 2010 totaled $37,016.26. pictures of our GOYAns who participated in the retreat. We could not have done this without you. The Community Dining Room offers a new program to help stretch food budgets: “Wednesday Night Take Out” for those recently affected due to job loss or had hours cut back. We have served over 49,000 meals in 2010. The number of meals we are serving is continually increasing during the present economic downturn. The Community Dining Room also offers academic support for our elementary and middle school students every Tuesday from 3:30 – 5:30 provided by LEAD, Learning Center’s community outreach program called Homework Helpers. The CDR has recently added “Health over Easy” a nutritional program coordinated by the East Shore District Health Department. Best of the New Year, Jayne Nunziante - Director, Fundraising

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 23 GOYA Christmas Caroling - GOYA Christmas Retreat

GOYA Christmas Caroling by: Andrianna Papadimitriou

There’s nothing better than going Christmas caroling with your closest friends to help get you into the Christmas spirit! On December 17, 2010 our GOYA brought Christmas cheer to many people. We visited places such as Chip’s Restaurant, Laurel Gardens Nursing Home, and the homes of various parishioners. Whether we were giggling when we lost our place in a song, messing up the words or belting out the lyrics to “Sleigh Ride” there was GOYA Christmas Retreat a smile on everyone’s face. Several members of the Saint Barbara GOYA attended the district retreat at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Christmas provides an opportunity to gather together, Church in Bridgeport. Following a brief morning be thankful, and make memories with the ones you love. prayer, Seminarians from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox That’s precisely what happened that night. We made School of Theology in Brookline, MA, divided us into other people happy, as well as ourselves, and can all look groups by age, and led us in an in depth discussion back and think about what a wonderful thing we had regarding the Feast of the Nativity of Christ. We done and would continue to do in the future. No matter discussed the “commercialization” of Christmas how off-key we might have been at times, everyone and how our attention is being distracted from truly enjoyed themselves and we all learned how simple it is to celebrating the Birth of Christ. All in all, the retreat was do something good for our community. very fulfilling and a great way to prepare for Christmas!

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 24 GOYA Christmas Caroling

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 25 Sunday School Christmas Pageant

Sunday School Christmas Pageant Students of the Saint Barbara Sunday School Catechetical Program presented their annual Christmas Pageant on the Sunday before the celebration of the Nativity of Christ. The pageant depicts the events surrounding the birth of our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ, and always reminds us of the Love that God has for humankind.

This year's pageant was no exception. As the students prayerfully participated and sang carols praising God, they provided us all with an opportunity to lift up our voices in hymns and song honoring the newborn King.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 26 Sunday School Christmas Pageant

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 27 The Lights of Saint Barbara: Holiday House Tour

The event, co-chaired by Paris Stamos Heath and Elaine Johnson, brought proceeds totaling over $4,000 to the Community of Saint Barbara. We would like to thank them both for introducing a new and unique holiday activity to our community. We would also like to thank all of the homeowners who so graciously opened their homes for this event. They are as follows: Greg and Susan Stamos, Paris and Terry Heath, Nota and George Koutroumanis, Alex Alexiades, Paris and Evelyn Spanolios, and Andrew and Dee Stefanou.

The Lights of Saint Barbara: Holiday House Tour If you missed Saint Barbara's first holiday house tour you missed out on seeing some magnificently decorated homes. Six of our parishioners opened their homes for the tour not only to the community of Saint Barbara but to the general public as well. The after church event began with a luncheon reception at the Lightle Community House. Most of us were expecting a glass of wine and a piece of cheese...what we got was baked ham and turkey, gourmet cheeses, baked breads and salad. Following our lunch, we began our tour of the six homes. Each time we left a house we thought, "It couldn't get better," and it did! Themed trees, collections of carolers, ornate mantle decorations and 20 foot trees were just a few of the treats we had the pleasure of viewing. The feedback from both community members and residents of Woodbridge, Orange and the surrounding towns was extremely positive, everyone wondering how could you top it next year? www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 28 The Lights of Saint Barbara: Holiday House Tour

Dear Father Peter, This letter is to personally thank you and your parishioners for opening their hearts and homes for the spectacular “Lights of Saint Barbara” holiday event. In a time of economic uncertainty and worldwide concerns, it was truly a pleasure to escape for a day and feel the magic of the holiday season in each beautifully decorated home. The people who volunteered to open their doors, greet perfect strangers with the warmth of good friends truly showcased the spirit and love of the Christmas season. In light of the difficult circumstances within your own parish, it takes a community to join together for a cause to triumph over adversity. I say, job well done! I hope you will share my gratitude with all! Happy Holidays from an Irish, Catholic woman in Milford. K. Gilhuly

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 29 The Lights of Saint Barbara: Holiday House Tour

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 30 Annual Taverna Night

Στήν υγειά μας 5th Annual Taverna Night Saturday, June 11, 2011 6:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. at the Saint Barbara Community Center 480 Racebrook Road - Orange, CT (Space is Limited) ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT MENU Featuring: Lamb Pork & Chicken Souvlaki - Potatoes & Rice Fosolakia Lathera (Greek String Beans) - Horiatiki Salata (Salad) Mezedakia - Appetizers Fried Calamari - Spanakopita - Tyropsomakia Dolmadakia, Tarama, Loukaniko, Olives, Feta Beer & Wine Fruit, Coffee & Dessert Tickets: Adults: $50 Students: $35 (ages 12-21) Children: $15 (ages 6-11) Children up to 5 years old: Free R.S.V.P. by June 6 at the Church Office - 203-795-1347 sponsored by the saint barbara greek language school

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 31 Lecture at Fairfield University - Philoptochos Hosts Lecture - Orthodox Study Bible

Lecture at Fairfield University The Administration of Fairfield University recently invited Dr. Perry Hamalis the Associate Professor of Religious Studies at North Central College in Naperville, IL, to deliver a lecture as part of its on going lecture series. The talk entitled “An Orthodox Perspective on Global Citizenship – The Politics of Personhood,” was both thought provoking and educational. Dr. Hamalis, offered a well documented and historically accurate perspective on the development of the Orthodox Church’s position of Global Citizenship and how oftentimes the Church’s “Praxis’ and Theoria” (Practice and Teachings or Theory) were often at odds. In Orthodox thought we see all of humanity united as one; we share a familial relationship to each other as Philoptochos Hosts Lecture children of God. As such, we have a responsibility to Following the Philoptochos General Meeting held on the well-being of not only each other as humans who Wednesday March 23, Elaine Johnson, a Professional have been created in God’s Image and Likeness, but to Organizer, gave a talk on How to De-Clutter Your Home. the environment and world ‘resources’ that have been Elaine presented an entertaining and familiar talk about placed under our care. how we tend to accumulate our possessions in a spare This theological outlook demands that we forego room, guest room or other location in our homes, awaiting nationalistic interests and cultural superiorities and that perfect time to organize and purge. Alas, many realize all humans are equally created in the image of of us never make that time. But after hearing Elaine's God. It is all too easy to see how we as humanity fall far suggestions many were motivated and armed with the short of this Christian responsibility and goal. know-how and inspiration to start some necessary de- cluttering projects... just in time for spring cleaning! Orthodox Christianity is the face of ancient Christianity to the modern world and embraces the second largest body of Christians in the world. In this first-of-its-kind study Bible, the Bible is presented with commentary from the ancient Christian perspective that speaks to those Christians who seek a deeper experience of the roots of their faith. The Orthodox Study Bible, created by The Orthodox Study Bible Old Testament Project and published by Thomas Nelson, uses the New King James version of the Bible as the basis for a fresh translation of the Septuagint text. The Septuagint The Orthodox Study Bible is the Greek version of the Bible used by Christ, The first ever full-length Orthodox Study the Apostles, and the early church. Bible in English presents the Bible of the Available at the Saint Barbara Book Store early church and the church of the early Bible. Price: $50.00

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 32 Annual Golf Classic Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church Annual Golf Classic Friday, June 17, 2011

Orange Hills Country Club 389 Racebrook Road Orange, Connecticut Registration 7:00 a.m. Shot Gun Start 8:00 a.m. sharp Hot Dog & Hamburger Cookout at the end of the Tournament Space is limited to 144 players! All reservations must be paid by June 10, 2011 $100 per player Includes: Greens Fee, Golf Cart & Cookout To Register Please Call: Mike Wachter: 203-281-6078 or the Church Office: 203-795-1347 Sponsorships are also available: $300 Green Sponsor Have your own Fairway with two flags, one on the tee box and one on the green $75 Tee Sponsor A flag with your choice of wording $60 Sponsor Business/Name displayed at golf course. www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 33 Godparent Sunday

Godparent Sunday The Community of Saint Barbara recently celebrated Godparent Sunday. It was wonderful to see so many of our parishioners attend the Divine Liturgy and receive Holy Communion together with their Godparents and/or Godchildren. The Saint Barbara PTO hosted a luncheon following the Divine Liturgy in the Community Center. Everyone had an opportunity to eat a wonderfully prepared meal and then meet others who travelled from various communities in Connecticut, as well as from other states.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 34 Godparent Sunday

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 35 Saint Barbara Family Retreat

Saint Barbara Family Retreat Yiayias, Papous, Moms, Dads, teenagers and even young children and their Nounas of all ages gathered on a sunny Saturday morning for a Family Retreat on Prosforon making. Many church goers don't even realize that the prosforon used during the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, is an offering prepared by dedicated parishioners prior to each and every service. The sixty-five enthusiastic participants at this retreat were given step-by-step instructions by Marie Basel and her daughter Claudia on how to mix the ingredients, knead, shape, imprint (with the seal) and bake this holy bread. The participants prayed, kneaded, baked and patiently waited for the end result. While the 55 loaves baked Father Peter explained the meaning of imprints on the seal and then the participants enjoyed a meal prepared by Helen Wachter. Following lunch, the participants wrapped up their breads and took them home with instructions on how to bring them back to church (with the names of living and dead) as their Above: The Prosforon Seal own prayerful offering for a future Divine Liturgy. www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 36 Saint Barbara Family Retreat

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 37 Prosforon Recipe

Prosforon Recipe Ingredients: 2 tsp yeast (1 pkg) 1 tsp sugar ¼ cup warm water 5 cups pre-sifted, unbleached flour (King Arthur preferred) 1 tsp salt 1 ½ cup warm water Procedure: Place yeast and sugar in a small bowl. Add ¼ cup warm water and whisk to mix well. Cover with plastic wrap to allow yeast to rise for approximately 10 minutes. Place flour and salt in a mixing bowl, add yeast, add 1 ½ cup warm water slowly mixing to form dough. Dough should be soft but not sticky. Place dough on floured surface and knead to make a smooth round ball. Place in pan and press down. Sprinkle flour on a clean, dry surface and press with seal to make an imprint on the dough. Remove seal carefully keeping seal in tact. Bake in 350 degree oven for approximately 45 minutes. While baking 20 minutes spray bread with water and allow to continue baking.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 38 Robert Krantz Visits the Saint Barbara Parish

Robert Krantz Visits the Saint Barbara Parish Robert Krantz, author of Falling in Love with Sophia and Guide to the Divine Liturgy recently made a stop at Saint Barbara Church as part of his national book signing tour. He was invited to an event hosted by the Saint Barbara GOYA. He held a well attended lecture at the Lightle Community Center. Mr. Krantz spoke about his own spiritual journey, explaining how he has always felt God working in his life. It was his faith in God that allowed him to navigate through all that life has to offer. In addition to being a bestselling author, Krantz has acted in numerous films and television shows. He has also written screenplays for major motion picture studios including Sony, Fox and Columbia Pictures. Mr. Krantz graduated from the University of Southern California's Film and Television program, also wrote, produced, and acted in the movie Do You Wanna Dance? He owns his own production and distribution company, Ellinas Multimedia which is the largest producer and distributer of Greek multimedia products in the United States. He currently lives with his wife Tricia and their three sons Chris, Nick and George in Aliso Viejo, California. Many thanks to Michele Papadimitriou for her work in coordinating Robert's visit and lecture.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 39 Saint Barbara Church 2011 Stewardship List

Gather My People To My Home Come and See ΕΡΧΟΥ ΚΑΙ ΙΔΕ

See the world as God's Gift to you. See what the Church Can Become. See God work through You. Come and See.

Philip brings Nathaniel to Christ telling him "Come and See." join us for sunday services Saint Barbara Church Stewardship 2011 In 2011 we received 448 Stewardship Pledge Cards. These 448 stewards pledged a total of $199,532 towards our 2011 goal of $285,000.

Thank you to those who have made and completed your stewardship pledge for 2011. If you have not done so to date, please call the Church Office or simply send in your Stewardship donation. Remember to give dedicated and sacrificial attention to your Stewardship donation, keeping an eye toward helping your church reach its Stewardship goal. In preparation for the great opportunities that lie ahead in the life of this community, the Stewardship Committee is asking everyone to continue that trend and pitch in by increasing your pledge from last year at least 10% or $50, whichever is greater. As always, we are grateful for your love and support of our parish. If there are any omissions or errors in the list below, we ask that you please call the office and speak to our secretary. Thank you for your continued support.

Agapiou, John Anastasopoulos, Angelo Antonellis, Donna Agapiou, Bessie Anastasopoulos, Maria Antonellis, Theodore Aldi, Anthony & Kostoula Anderson, Peter Anzenberger, Ioanna and Steven Alessio, Anthony Anderson, Lorraine Aportria, Catherine Alessio, Pamela Andrews, Gary & Melanie Apotria, Cleo Alexiades, Alex Andriotis, Demetra Arabolos, Michael Alexiades, Elia Andriotis, Sophia Aretakis, Nick & Maria Amigdalos, Steven & Erika Andriotis, Christina Armetta, Philip & Antonia Amigdalos, Anna Angeletti, Calliope Athanas, Dale Amoratis, Antonios Angelopoulos, Athanasios Athenson, John & Mary Jane Amoratis, Vasiliki Anthis, George Bakousis, Dennis Amoratis, Mike Anthis, Irene Bakousis, Despoina Anasson-Waskiewicz, Charles Anthis, Nicholas Baledes, Theodore & Carol Anasson, Cynthia Anthis, Georgette Ballas, James Anasson-Waskiewicz, Eleni Anton, Vasiliki Ballas, Demetra Anastasion, George Antonak, Mary Ballas, Lisa Anastasion, Nita Antonakis, Anthony & Anna Barakis, Stanley Anastasion, Peter Antonellis, Asimina Barakis, Florence Anastasion, Maria Antonellis, George Basel, Edward

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 40 Saint Barbara Church 2011 Stewardship List

Basel, Lillian DiMeola, Richard & Joanne Gust, Maria Basel, Louis Dimos, Christos & Melissa Hadjimichael, Christos Basel, Marie Dinyovszky, Helen Hadjimichael, Jane Basel, Claudia Drakonakis, Andrew Hadjimichael, Evangelos Benas, James Drakonakis, Jane Hadjimichael, Olympia Benas, Marina Drenkhahn, Peter Hajedemos, Harry Benham, John & Elizabeth Drenkhahn, Thedora Hajedemos, Jane Bitzarakis, Mary Dykas, Joseph & Elena Halepas, Mara Borelli, Andrew & Cornelia Efthymiou, Pantelis Halepas, Stephanie Burr, Kevin Efthymiou, Renee Halepas, Peter & Juanita Burr, Chrisanne Elefteriades, John Haskos, Helen Buzelle, Bruce Elefteriades, Peggy Haskos, Koula Buzelle, Avenya Eliopoulos, Paris Haskos, Nicholas J. Cambras, William & Elizabeth Eliopoulos, Virginia Haskos, Lizabeth Canevari, Daniel Eliopoulos, Konstantinos Hathaway, Wendy Canevari, Petrina Eliopoulos, Jimmy Hatzigiannis, Theodore Cargos, Sophie Ellis, Peter Hatzigiannis, Mary Chadderton, Kevin & Stacey Ellis, Patricia Heath, Terry & Paris Chagares, Conella P. Emmanouil, Stylianos Heerdt, John & Lisa Chagares, Constantine Emmanouil, Kaliope Heffernan, Evelyn Chagares, Helen Esposito, David & Susanna Heonis, Despina Chagares, Dorothea Faraclas, Anne Hionis, Nikolaos & Margaret Chaltas, Basil Faraclas, Paul Hojnowski, Mark Chaltas, Efthalia Barbara Faraclas, Jacqueline Hojnowski, Eleni Chekas, Pauline Feliciano, Donald Hoxsie, Frederick & Barbara Chow, James Feliciano, Larisa Hrampanis, Gregory Chow, Theodora Fifis, Augoustis Hrampanis, Maria Coclin, James Fifis, Maria Hubbard, Thomas & Stephanie Coclin, Ellen Fifis, Demetrios Ikonomou, Mihail Constantinidi, Aquiles Frangenes, Jason Ikonomou, Helen Constantinidi, Mary Galanakis, Despina Johnson, Scott & Andreanne Contaxis, William Galanakis, Maria Jordanides, George & Marcy Contaxis, Joanne Gallagher, Nicki Kakalow, James Contopoulos, George Ganacoplos, Pamela Kambas, William Contopoulos, Joanne Genetos, Claire Kambas, Ariadne Corradino, Melissa Genetos, Clara Kanakis, Tasos Cosmas, Michael & Dawn Giambanis, George Kanakis, Kathy Cox, Edwin Giambanis, Maria Kaoud, Abraham Cox, Sharon Giatrelis, Dorothea Kaoud, Aida Dabakis, Cathy Ginieres, Alexandra Kaoud, Maurice Dabakis, L. Greg Glaras, Danny & Donna Karakolidis, Angelo Daskalakis, Elias Golub, Stephanie Karakolidis, Maria Daskalakis, Sophie Goodrich, James Kariofyllis, Roula DeBassio, Bessie Goodrich, Anastasia Katevatis, Manos Delcos, William & Marianne Gorecki, Edward & Betsy Kattis, George Delos, Tony & Stacy Goumas, Elaine Kattis, Anastasia DelPercio, Fred & Renee Goumas, Lucy Kavathas, Paula Diamantes, Fred Guarnieri, Michael & Erin Kefalas, Nicholas Diamantes, Antigoni Guartazaca, C. Michael & Irene Kefalas, Beverly Diamantis, Ilias Guiliotis, George Keramas, Evangelia Diamantis, Maria Guiliotis, Dorothy Kerames, Dennis DiBianco, John & Angela Guiliotis, Gregg Kerames, Karen DiGrazia, Christine Guiliotis, Barbara Kerantzas, Elizabeth Dikegoros, Persefone Gust, Christopher Kitsos, Evangeline

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 41 Saint Barbara Church 2011 Stewardship List

Klarides, Peter Maniatis, Zoi Pantelis, Peter Klarides, Theodora Maniatis, Theodore Pantelis, Brenda Klarides, Theodore Maniatis, Eleftheria Papadimitriou, George Klarides, Mary Mantzaris, Adam Papadimitriou, Michele Kokenos, John & Rodanna Marathas, Catherine Papadopoulos, Nicholas Komlos, Jeanette Marchitto, Patric Papadopoulos, Niki Komninakas, Meni Marchitto, Georgia Papageorgiou, Harry Korosiotis, Nikolaos Markakis, Eleni Papageorgiou, Elizabeth Korosiotis, Stavroula Marnerakis, Anastasios &Francesca Pappas, Catherine Kostas, Demetrios and Heather Martin, Nick & Eileen Pappas, Vivian Kostas, Konstantine Matarese, Matthew & Stephanie Pappas, Harry Kostas, Valentina Mattie, Mary Pappas, Aspasia Koukos, Marietta Mavrides, William Pappas, John Kourounis, Kay Mavromatis, Nicholas Pappas, Eleni Kovlakas, Paul Harold and Evelyn Pappas, John Kovlakas, Lisa Meehan, Anne Pappas, Lella Kral, Harriet Melanidis, Konstantinos Pappas, Michael & Gail Krist, Vede Melanidis, Helen Peccerilli, Anna Kydes, George Menegatos, Spyros Perakos, Sperie Kydes, Joanne Menegatos, Maria Perakos, Nikki Kyriakides, Tassos & Kristen Milani, Gino & Christine Perretta, Philip & Irene Kyrtopoulos, William and Diane Milas, Nicolaos Perretta, Carmen Laggis, Nicholas Milas, Irene Perrone, James & Stacy Laskos, Peter and Jeanet Mitchell, Joy Petrakis, Evan Laskos, Monica Mitchell, Victor and Penelope Petrakis, Regina Lavey, Christine Monaco, Ralph and Melba Piperas, Helen Lawrence, Joshua and Andrea Moran, Brian & Stacy Piperas, George Lazos, Athanasios & Susan Morris, Diana Poulmas, James Lillios, Antonios Morris, Philip Poulmas, Lillian Limanni, Tom & Chryssanthe Morris, Mary Poulmas, John Loo, Steven & Stephanie Mountzouris, Evans Proestakes, Helen Losh, Michael and Peggy Mountzouris, Christina Proestakis, George & Marla Losh, Michael and Victoria Mouratidis, Gregory Proestakis, Peter Loskant, Robert Mouratidis, Elizabeth Proestakis, Florence Loskant, Patricia Mulhall, Christopher & Andrea Psaltis, Emmanuel Lott, Bradford Namnoum, Ken & Anna Redding, Helen Lott, Valentine Necklas, Barbara Redding, Paul Loucopoulos, John Necklas, Georgia Redding, Barbara Loucopoulos, Fotini Necklas, Michael & Antoinette Reilly, Robyn Loukakes, James & Halina Necklas, Socrates & Elaine Renda, Al & Christina Loukides, Louis Nichols, Mathew and Dani Rioja, Virginia Loukides, Terry Nicholson, Nelson and Carole Robalino, Ed & Katina Louloudis, Demetra Nicolakis, Theodore Rogers, Chad & Alexis Loussides, Nick Nicolakis, Clio Russo, J. Greg & Tracey Loussides, Hariklea Nuzzo, Joseph and Maria Russo, Ralph & Evelyn Loussides, George N. Orfanakos, Rev. Peter J. Sakkas, Dionisios Loussides, Angeliki Orfanakos, Presbytera Vangie E. Sakkas-Lalioti, Maria Madigosky, Ioanna Overbye, Michael Sarigianis, James Magoulas, Spiro Overbye, Jeannie Sarigianis, Florence Magoulas, Anastasia Pacelle, Richard & Pat Sarris, John Maniatakis, Irene Palavra, John Sarris, Theodora Maniatis, Konstantinos Palavra, Penny Savvidis, Chris Maniatis, Anastasia Pandajis, James Savvidis, Eva Maniatis, Peter Pandajis, Florence Savvidis, Savva

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 42 Saint Barbara Church 2011 Stewardship List - Philoptochos Thanks our Parishioners

Scafariello, John & Mercy Stefanis, Louis Tsionis, George Sciaraffa, David & April Stefanis, Marianne Tsionis, Paula Sekas, Mary Stefanou, Andrew Vamvakides, Kirk & Judite Sellas, George Stefanou, Diane Vartelas, Theodore Sellas, Christine Stournaras, Dana Vasil, Helen Simmons, Mario & Arhonti Tambis, Penny Vasilas, Mary Skalkos III, Nicholas Tambis, Thomas Vautrin, Gregg & Eleni Skitzis, John & Eleanor Tambis, Christine Verinis, Marie Soboslai, Helyn Teodosio, Joseph Vetrano, Todd & Ariana Soennichsen, Ryan Teodosio, Maria Vincelette, Catherine Soennichsen, Despina Terzakis, James Vlandis, Elias Sofokleous, Peggy Terzakis, Angeliki Vlandis, Calliopi Soteropoulos, Catherine Testo, Carl & Cynthia Wachter, Herbert Spanolios, Paris Theodos, George Wachter, Helen Spanolios, Eugenia Theodos, Antonia Wheeler, Roger Stamos, Gregory & Susan Timms, Angelnia Winkel, James & Marcy Stamos, Paul & Karen Tjimis, Yota Yates, Steven Stamos, Peter Tobias, Christopher Yates, Helene Stardellis, Sofia Tobias, Anastasia Yost, Fredric Stavrides, Andrew Tomaszek, Frank Zikos, George Stavrides, Joanna Tomaszek, Laurie Zikos, Christina Stavrides, Steven Tsialas, Gregory Stavrides, Joann Tsialas, Elaine

expenses: Chris Stefanis from The Athena Dinner in North Haven, the Anthis family from Georgie’s Diner, the Antonakis family from the Greek Olive, Angelo Giannopoulos from Nick’s Place in Madison, Chip’s Restaurant, Penny Palavra, Paris Eliopoulos, Kostas Eliopoulos, James Bitzonis, Tony and Maria Koutroumanis, John and Anna Mihalakos, Dr. Yota Tjimis, Mrs. Linda Morris, the Haritos Family from Guilford, and Mrs. Vaso Melanidis. Because of their generosity, Philoptochos has been in a much better position to carry out its mission. We are looking forward to an even more successful future for our Society. Maria Koutroumanis preparing the Tsourekia for Pascha Thank you to all, Philoptochos Thanks our Parishioners Oly Hadjimichael, Philoptochos President We are deeply grateful to our parishioners for supporting our efforts at Easter time in raising funds for charity. Our mission is to help the poor, the destitute, the hungry, the aged, the sick, the unemployed; the victims of disasters, and to anyone who may need the help of the Church. We help those in need locally, nationally, and internationally. At this time, we would like to thank in addition, those who have made donations that reduce the cost of our Above: Some of the participants in the Philoptochos Cooking Class

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Foreign rulers changed through the years, but Greece never ceased to be the center of scientific, cultural and religious quests and development. It was in Greece that Christianity found its first foothold in Europe. The fusion of the Gospel message, with the reason and humanity of the Greeks, helped to form the early Christian Church. It was through Greece that teachings of Jesus Christ spread into Europe. The spread of the ‘Good News’ was facilitated through the use of the Greek language that served as the international language at the time and its association with the Byzantine Empire, which finally adopted Christianity as the official state religion. The Byzantine Empire started out as the eastern part of the Roman Empire but slowly transformed to a state primarily based on the Greek mainland ruled by Emperors that used Greek as the official state language. During its lengthy eleven century life (A.D. 330-1453) the Byzantine state showed a particular interest in the preservation of ancient Greek culture. Champion of that cause was the Orthodox Church, who helped preserve the classical heritage through the centuries. Although the Byzantine Empire housed within its borders many peoples from various nations, it was the people of Greece that constituted its main body. And it was on that very land of Greece that Byzantium left its final breath. The blessing of the flag of Freedom at Aghia Lavra. Theodoros Vryzakis, 1856 - Athens National Gallery. After fighting desperately for its life Greece fell victim to the force of the expanding Ottoman Empire in 1453. Celebrating Greek Independence Day The fall of Constantinople, the capital of once mighty The country of Greece, located in the southeastern part of the European continent is easily recognizable by its wild mountainous terrain and its golden coastline. Greece has been described as both the passageway of nations and the birthplace of democracy. It is revered for the gifts it has presented to humankind in the times of Pericles and the Golden Age of Athens. Epic poetry, art, drama, history, philosophy, mathematics and the formulation of the principles of a democratic government all can trace their origin to Greece. Since the end of the Classical Era, the Greek nation saw their military power falter, and the citizens of Greece had to become accustomed to foreign rule. Greece however, continued to shine its lights on to the rest of the world. Even her very conquerors, as in the case with the Roman Empire, once they were acquainted with Greek culture, A War Scene. were in turn, conquered by it. Theodoros Vryzakis, 1853 - Athens National Gallery.

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Byzantium, brought to an end the history of a state that honors the Virgin Mary who received the call from the shone gloriously for over 1,100 years. This ultimate Archangel to become the representative of humanity in defeat signaled for the Greek Orthodox Church and the the great Economy of God. She willingly agreed to bear Greek nation the start of a long period of subjugation to the Christ, and in doing so began the process of events a ruthless Turkish rule. that would bring about the ‘re-birth’ of humankind in In many ways the Greeks were treated like second class Paradise. citizens. They were forced to wear distinctive clothing, Although military operations had started on March 21st, given the poorest of land to cultivate, and were at the and historians point out the assembly in the monastery mercy of whatever overlord happened to be in the actually took place a fortnight before, it is the 25th day general vicinity. of March that by tradition is celebrated as the beginning For the next four centuries the Greeks attempted to of the Greek Revolution. This date parallels the gain their freedom several times, but every attempt Annunciation of the Birth of Christ and the ‘re-birth’ of failed for lack of organization and wider support. Every the Greek nation. unsuccessful attempt however, galvanized the spirit of the people and reaffirmed the intense feeling of nationhood that prevailed among Greeks of all classes. This feeling derived from their common language, their common Christian faith, and from the consciousness of being under an alien and repressive rule. It also derived from the Church the initiated clandestine educational efforts that helped preserve the ancient heritage as well as the cultural and linguistic unity of the nation. At the same time the messages of the Enlightenment that embodied brotherhood, intellectual and scientific life and reason among men that started arriving from Western Europe (Voltaire, Diderot, Rousseau) intoxicated the Greeks with a growing desire for national freedom. Rhigas Feraios, an 18th century Greek activist who was trying to raise awareness in Europe about the Greek cause, expressed the feelings of every enslaved Greek when he wrote his marshal hymn: «Καλύτερα μίας ώρας ελεύθερη ζωή παρά σαράντα χρόνια σκλαβιά και φυλακή.» “It is better to live for just one hour as a free man, rather than live a slave for forty years.” Folk legend has it that the revolution started in the monastery of Agia Lavra, in the northern part of the The camp of Georgios Karaiskakis Peloponnese peninsula. According to the legend, Metropolitan Germanos, the Bishop of Patras, raised the Theodoros Vryzakis, 1855 - Athens National Gallery. flag of the revolution in front of the assembled primates From the outbreak of the revolution, the different and chieftains of the area and urged them to pledge chieftains used various flags and banners to lead their their loyalty to the sacred fight for the freedom of their men in battle. A common motif prevailed - the cross, nation. The ultimate goal was set, “Freedom or Death!” in different sizes, shapes and colors served as a reminder The date was March 25, 1821. of the Greek’s common faith and a sign of divine It is on that very same day that the Greek Orthodox intervention for the fulfillment of their goals. Church celebrates the Feast of the Annunciation and In 1822 however, the newly formed Greek parliament

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adopted the official flag of the country. This new flag of Greece would have nine equal horizontal stripes of blue alternating with white. The white stripes symbolized peace and honesty and the white color of the Greek waves. The blue stripes symbolized vigilance, truth loyalty, perseverance, justice and the blue of the Greek sea. A blue square in the upper hoist-side corner bears a white cross that symbolizes the Greek Orthodox Faith, the established religion of Greece. This was the ultimate recognition by the Greek state of the importance of their faith to the outcome of their fight. Eight years of bitter and bloody battles followed. Eight years that produced a new pantheon of heroes, who would eventually take their place in Greek legend The dance of Zaloggo or the Souliotisses alongside the place of Hercules, Aquiles, and Eulicies. Claude Pinet had been killed in battle. They were clergymen, like the Patriarch of Constantinople, Gregorios the 5th, who was murdered by the Turks as a punishment and warning to the Greeks who wanted to join the fight. Or, like the priest, Grigorios Papaflessas, who served as a revolutionary in the Greek government and eventually gave his life in the trenches fighting for the freedom of his country. And they were the Philhellenes, friends of Greece, who came from far away lands and joined in the fight for Greek Independence.

The Exodus from Messolonghi Theodoros Vryzakis, 1853 - Athens National Gallery.

They were kleftes like Theodoros Kolokotronis and Odysseus Androutsos and Georgios Karaiskakis. They were noblemen like the Ypsilantis brothers, Alexandros and Dimitrios, who abandoned their high offices in Russia to go and fight for the homeland. They were merchants like Constantine Kanaris and Andreas Miaoulis who turned their ships over to the revolution becoming inspirational naval leaders. They were anonymous heroes like the women of Souli, who chose death before dishonor; they held their children tightly Alexandros Ypsilantis crosses the river Pruth and jumped off the cliffs of Zaloggo, after their men P. von Hess - Athens, Benaki Museum.

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And musing there an hour alone, I dreamed that Greece might still be free; For standing on the Persians' grave, I could not deem myself a slave.” The Greek state that emerged from the war of 1821 declared March 25th a national holiday. Celebrations commemorating Greek Independence Day are celebrated in every city and village of Greece and every corner of the world, where Greeks are to be found. March 25th holds for the Greeks the same significance July 4th holds for us as Americans. Both dates mark the declaration of Independence and the birth of two nations who fought passionately for their freedom; two nations, who shared the same convictions about man’s inalienable rights on earth. When a young America and its people fought for democracy, self-determination and freedom of expression, they felt very close to the people that presented these very same concepts to the world. In a letter sent to celebrated scholar and patriot, Adamantios Koraes, Thomas Jefferson expressed the feelings of Americans on the Greek Revolution:

Lord Byron welcomed in Messolonghi “…no people sympathize more feelingly than Theodoros Vryzakis - Athens National Gallery. ours with the suffering of your countrymen; and no one offers more sincere and ardent The most famous Philhellene was Lord Byron, an prayers to heaven for their success…” English poet and satirist who first visited Greece in 1809 and instantly fell in love with the land that inspired his Encouraged by the achievements of the American people Grecian poems. After the outbreak of the revolution, since the declaration of their independence, the newly Byron returned to Greece in 1824 to work with the born Greek parliament appealed to the American nation division leaders and unify the diversion Greek forces. in the name of their shared love for liberty, requesting He unfortunately fell ill, contracted a fever and died in their assistance in the struggle they had just begun. Messolonghi later that same year. Until the time of his Following in the steps of their ancestors, modern death, Byron was held in such great respect in Greece Americans do not forget to pay tribute to Greek that the revolutionary government had even invited him Independence Day. In 1987 President Ronald Reagan to become Governor General of the Country. proclaimed the 25th of March a National Day of Lord Byron’s involvement in the Greek Independence Celebration of Greek and American Democracy: War helped awaken the opinion of Europeans in favor “I am particularly pleased that this Resolution of the fighting Greeks, who mourned sincerely the loss communicates our lasting debt of gratitude to of a true friend of their nation. the people of Greece and all people of Greek In one of his poems, titled The Isles of Greece, Lord Byron heritage for the democratic ideals which inspired writes: the founding of our own nation.” “The mountains look on Marathon And Marathon looks on the sea; President Ronald Regan

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During the brief period since the rebirth of its nation, Greece and her people have participated in the world’s fights for freedom and democracy, often paying a heavy price. It is however, perceived as their duty and their destiny, for they have always carved their path in history, motivated by their ultimate ideal – liberty.

Celebrating Greek Independence Day

At Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church The Greeks’H EQNIKH struggle MAS for freedomEORTH inspired their nationalGREEK INDEPENDENCE anthem, which was DAY written The students of our Greek Language School led the Celebration at the State Capitol parish of Saint Barbara in an inspirational celebration by Greece’s first modern-day poet laureate, Dionysios Solomos: th of Greek Independence Day. Elias Bitzarakis set the Tuesday, March 25 ‘tone’ of the event as he began to sing the solemn song Trivth, 25h Martivou Σε γνωρίζω από την κόψη ‘Δώδεκα Ευζωνάκια’ as his fellow students, accompanied State Capitol Building in Hartford by their teachers, processed onto the solea. On March 25th Greekτου Independence σπαθιού Day τηνCelebration τρομερή, at the State Capitol Building in Hartford from 4:00-5:30pm. The festivities will begin promptly in the Hall of Flags at 4:00 Chrissy Chow and Katie Esposito served as the pm and followed byσε music γνωρίζω and refreshments. από The programτην όψηcontinues with Doxology at Saint George Cathedral in Hartford at 6:00 pm and will be followed by dinner and music. student narrators of the program deftly navigating the (Donation of $10/adultπου are μεrequested βια for μετράει the dinner and την dance. γη. Students and children are parishioners from poem to song to poem. Each of the free.) Απ’ τα κόκκαλα βγαλμένη students recited a poem highlighting the Greeks’ fight Ethvsia Eqnikhv Eorthv th" Apeleuqerwvsew" stov Hartford thvn Trivth, 25h Martivou. To for Independence that began in 1821. They also sang provgramma sunecivzeteτων me Ελλήνων Doxologiva ston ταIerov ιερά,Naov Agivou Gewrgivou kai wvra 6:00 mm kai qa akolouqhqeiv me geuvma kai mousikhv. various traditional songs including ‘Τα Κλεφτόπουλα’ led και σαν πρώτα ανδρειωμένη, by Manolis Mastromanolis. χαίρε, ω χαίρε, Ελευθεριά! At the conclusion of this presentation the students led the entire congregation in the singing of the Greek “We knew thee of old, National Anthem and its beautiful words of freedom. Oh, divinely restored, We congratulate the staff of our Greek Language School By the lights of thine eyes, for the tremendous work that they continue to do teaching our children the Greek Language and traditions. And the light of thy Sword, Irene Milas, Director; Tina Valaouras-Berner, Assistant From the graves of our slain, Director; Mike Albanis, Anna Avgoulas, Mary Bitzarakis, James Chow, Theodore Dogani-Chow, Kaliope Shall thy valor prevail. Emmanouil, Maria Fifis, Maria Giambanis, Nomiki As we greet thee again- Kanakis, Sotiria Koniditsiotis, Fotini Loucopoulos, Theodora Maccone, Anita Maniatis, Zoi Maniatis, Maria Hail, O Hail o Liberty.” Paridis, Eugenia Spanolios, Calliope Vlandis.

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www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 49 Greek Language School Celebrates Greek Independence Day

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 50 Greek Independence Day Luncheon

Greek Independence Day Luncheon The teachers and parents of the children of the Saint Barbara Greek Language School hosted a luncheon celebrating Greek Independence Day! The Church’s community center was decorated beautifully for the occasion as we paid homage to those who fought heroically for Greece’s freedom. The following pages contain just some of the pictures highlighting the wonderful time shared by all.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 51 Greek Independence Day Parade in New York City

Greek Independence Day Parade In New York City Thousands of Greeks and Greek-Americans traveled to New York City to participate in the annual Greek Independence Day Parade on Fifth Avenue. As in the past, the children of our Greek Language School together with their parents and teachers, rode on a float specifically designed by our Greek School Staff. This year’s Saint Barbara float honored the ‘secret schools’ that were led by Orthodox Priests during the 400 years of Ottoman Occupation. Our own James Maccone, depicted ‘the priest’ teaching his young students in the caves about philosophy, the Greek language and the Orthodox Faith. These ‘schools’ played a virtual role assisting the Greeks in maintaining their Hellenic and Orthodox identity even under harsh and threatening conditions.

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www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 53 St. John Chrysostom Greek Independence Day Celebration in Hartford - OratoricalOratorical Festival 2011

Greek Independence Day Celebration in Hartford Over two hundred Greeks and Phil-Hellenes from throughout the State of Connecticut gathered in the Hall of Flags at the State Capitol to celebrate Greek

Independence Day. Greg Stamos, President of the CT Hellenic Bar Association (and Saint Barbara Seven Saint Barbara Orators Impress parishioner) led off the celebration eloquently TOPICS, TIPS, AND RESOURCES at Parish Oratorical Festival speaking on the importance of this day for all Greeks throughout the world. By Steven Yates On Saturday March 19, the Saint Barbara parish held its The Honorable Susan Bysiewicz, former Secretary of annual Saint John ChrysostomDepartment of Religious Education Oratorical Festival. This the State of Connecticut spoke of her own Hellenic (800) 566-1088 | [email protected]

background and served as the Master of Ceremonies. festival promotes public speaking on topics of faith Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman welcomed all to the among the Orthodox Christian youth. This year seven Capital and then those in attendance were honored to young people from our Sunday School committed to hear various poems celebrating Greek Independence write and deliver a speech on one of the topics provided Day as recited by the Greek School students from by the Archdiocese Department of Education. This Hartford, Waterbury and Orange, CT. is really quite extraordinary. When do you hear about school-aged kids voluntarily writing essays? And public Our Church was beautifully represented by young speaking is consistently ranked as people’s #1 fear. Why men and women of our Greek Language School who do these young people do this? handled themselves with much grace and dignity. It was evident to all in attendance that these extraordinary young people were brimming with their Faith. Every speech was thoughtful and passionately delivered. It made me so proud to be a member of this parish. First to speak were the three Elementary Division (Grades 4-6) students. Annie-Jordan Tomaszek, Maria Kaouris and Barbara Kefalas gave speeches that many considered the highlight of the festival. The Junior Division (Grades 7-9) had three excellent speeches that were of such high quality they would have been well received in the Senior Division (Grades 10-12)! Peter Kaouris, Diamantis Kefalas and Emma Cowper competed in the Junior Division for prizes and the privilege of participating in the District Festival at Holy Trinity in Bridgeport, CT. They finished in the order listed. Irene Antar was our lone Senior Division speaker and won a cash prize and the right to participate in the District Festival. Instrumental in the success of the Oratorical Festival were Elias Lolis, Stacey Grimaldi and Valerie Papanikolaw, who comprised a panel of expert judges, Jim Sarigianis, who acted as timekeeper, and Lea Loussides, who coordinated the room setup and refreshments for the event. Please congratulate and encourage these young people and their parents when you see them. It is my hope that next year’s parish oratorical festival will have even greater participation. www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 54 Saint John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival

St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival 2011 Participants in the Saint Barbara Oratorical Festival Top Row: Barbara Kefalas, Annie-Jordan Tomaszek, Maria Kaouris, Diamantis Kefalas

Second Row: Emma Cowper, Peter Kaouris, Irene The Saint Barbara Community hosted the Direct Antar, Steven Yates and the Elementary Division Archdiocesan DistrictTOPICS, Saint TIPS, AND John RESOURCES Chrysostom Oratorical

Participants Festival Finals on Saturday, May 7, 2011. Twenty students Below: Steven Yates and the Junior Division from NY, CT and Washington, DC participated. The two finalists, pictured below, chosen to represent our D.A.D. Participants Department of Religious Education District at the Archdiocesan(800) 566-1088 | [email protected] Finals in Houston, Texas, are both from the Saint George Cathedral in Hartford, CT.

Senior Division Junior Division

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 55 GOYA Ski Trip

GOYA Ski Trip snack or some hot chocolate to warm ourselves. Then we got back up ready to head back out to the slopes! by: Andrianna Papadimitriou When it was time to leave we could not believe that the Whether a beginner, an intermediate, or an expert skier day was over. We left in high spirits because we each got everyone enjoyed the GOYA ski trip that took place on to spend the day doing something we enjoyed with some February 19th. The group took a bus to Ski Sundown of our best friends. early in the morning and when we arrived everyone suited up and it was off to the slopes. It was a day that we’ll all remember! As the seniors said, they had a blast and would miss GOYA. The younger As we rode up in the chairlift and sped down the trails ones anticipated the trips to come. In the end, although everyone had a huge grin on their face. Whether it was our bodies were cold, our hearts were very warm! racing a friend down the mountain or taking it slow and enjoying the surroundings, each GOYAn was having a fun filled day… even though our noses were red from the cold! Each of us took a break whenever we needed a quick www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 56 GOYA Ski Trip

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 57 Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger Hunt On a brisk Saturday morning (March 26), GOYANS from our church, together with chaperons took a coach bus heading south on I-95 to NYC’s Central Park, for the annual scavenger hunt, sponsored by the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries of the Direct Archdiocesan District. Participating GOYANS from eleven churches (CT, NY) divided into twelve teams of about 10 GOYANS plus team leaders and assistants. An extensive checklist, including a digital camera was provided to each team. Task completion required team members to search out clues using Park landmarks such as statues, ecological- minded activities, singing, imagery, etc. to earn points. A point tally was completed while a GOYA Lenten Lunch was enjoyed at the ballroom of the Holy Trinity Cathedral on East 74th Street. Final scores from the Picture Safari Hunt were announced and prizes to the top three winning teams were received. The outing made for a fun, action packed day that allowed GOYANS to enjoy each other’s company, work together and broaden their friendships with GOYANS from other parishes!

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 58 Scavenger Hunt

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 59 PTO Children's Fair

PTO Children's Fair The Saint Barbara Community Center was filled with the sounds of delighted children as they raced around the hall. This was no ordinary coffee hour, but the PTO Children's Fair held on February 27 and chaired by PTO VP Sophia Papastathis Talnose. The young children of Saint Barbara's JOY and PATCHES groups played ring toss, fishing, basketball, dug for candy decorated cupcakes, sat for tattoos, face painting and nail polish. They also created handmade prayer tryptichs or a "stained glass" cross with glue, seashells and colored rocks. Before, during and after, the children and their parents and even some coffee hour visitors enjoyed the delicious grilled cheese and hot dog lunch so graciously prepared by our friend Paris Eliopoulos and the baked goods prepared by our PTO parents. The children ran back and forth between the games and prize redemption area, excited to turn in their tickets for even more fun. Some of the parents found respite while helping to bag up items for the 100 hygiene kits for the IOCC (International Orthodox Christian Charities), organized by Tony Delos and with toothbrushes, towels, soap, nail clippers, combs and Band-Aids donated by all the children of our Sunday School, the PTO and Dr. and Mrs. Gary Rothrock. As the Children's Fair started winding down, the ten themed raffle buckets were awarded and our special guests, Critter Caravan, arrived to dazzle the remaining children with the sights and sounds of a snake, guinea pig, cockroaches, chinchilla and some other small mammals. Many thanks to the GOYAns who helped manage the games, the parents who helped bake for the bake sale and cupcake booth and the other volunteers who organized and ran the events.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 60 PTO Children's Fair

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 61 Saint Barbara Senior Men's Team Wins League Championship

Senior Men’s Team Wins Championship losses during the regular season. Nonetheless, the team was focused, prepared and ready to play. By: Jim Bitzonis, Senior Team Coach I am pleased and proud to say that we won the game and After a disappointing 2009-10 season, which was beset brought the championship to Saint Barbara. The team with injuries, the Saint Barbara Senior Basketball Team played great defense and with a balanced scoring attack, approached this new season with a sense of urgency. dominated three quarters of the game. It was a pleasure The team’s goal was to get back to the championship coaching these fine young men and my thanks to each game, as it did in 2008-09 season, and, unlike then, win of them: George Pavlou, Chris Vagenas, Paul Vartelas, the Championship trophy for Saint Barbara. Gus Papadopoulos, Greg Wachter, Nick Aretakis, Mike With most of the players back, and the key addition of Gekas, Kevin Chadderton and Jay Laudano. Let's do it two big men, Kevin Chadderton and Jay Laudano, our again next year. team was one to be feared on the court. After an 8-2 regular season, good enough for second place, we began our playoff run by beating Saint George of Norwalk in the Quarterfinals, the Archangels of Stamford in the Semifinals and were set to face Holy Trinity of New Rochelle in the new format of a one game Final (as opposed to best of three). The game was a significant game for us, one of our two

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 62 The Saint Barbara Senior Men's Team Wins League Championship

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 63 Connecticut Eastern Orthodox Basketball League

Connecticut Eastern Orthodox Intermediates – Final Regular Season Standings Basketball League Rank team Wins loses Midgets – Final Regular Season Standings 1 Holy Trinity (Waterbury) 12 0 Rank team Wins loses 2 Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) 9 3 1 Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) 11 0 3 st. Barbara (Orange) 8 4 2 St. John (Bridgeport) 9 2 4 Holy Trinity (Bridgeport) 8 4 3 Archangels (Stamford) 8 4 5 St. George (Norwalk) 4 8 4 Holy Trinity (Waterbury) 7 5 3 Assumption (Danbury) 3 9 5 Annunciation (Stamford) 5 7 7 St. Nicholas (Bridgeport) 3 9 6 Holy Trinity (Bridgeport) 4 8 8 Annunciation (Stamford) 1 11 7 st. Barbara (Orange) 1 10 8 St. George (Hartford) 0 10 Intermediate Division Playoffs: Holy Trinity (Waterbury) #1 vs. Holy Trinity (Bridgeport) #4 Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) #2 defeated St. Barbara (Orange) #3 Midget Division Playoffs: Championship Game: Archangels (Stamford) #3 defeated St. John (Bridgeport) #2 Holy Trinity (Waterbury) defeated Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) #1 defeated Holy Trinity (Waterbury) #4 Intermediate Division League Champion: Holy Trinity (Waterbury) Championship Game: Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) defeated Archangels (Stamford) Seniors – Final Regular Season Standings Midget Division League Champion: Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) Rank team Wins loses 1 Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) 8 2 Juniors – Final Regular Season Standings 2 st. Barbara (Orange) 8 2 Rank team Wins loses 3 Archangels (Stamford) 8 2 1 st. Barbara (Orange) 9 2 4 Holy Trinity (A) (Waterbury) 7 3 2 Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) 9 2 5 St. George (A) (Norwalk) 6 4 3 Holy Trinity (Waterbury) 9 3 6 Holy Trinity (A) (Bridgeport) 6 4 4 Holy Trinity (Bridgeport) 6 4 7 St. George (B) (Norwalk) 4 6 5 Archangels (Stamford) 4 8 8 Holy Trinity (B) (Bridgeport) 2 8 6 St. George (Hartford) 1 9 9 Holy Trinity (B) (Waterbury) 1 9 7 Annunciation (Stamford) 1 11 10 Church of Our Saviour (Rye) 1 9

Junior Division Playoffs: Senior Division Playoffs: St. Barbara (Orange) # 1 defeated Holy Trinity (Bridgeport) #4 Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) #1 defeated Holy Trinity (A) (Waterbury) #4 Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) #2 defeated Holy Trinity (Waterbury) #3 St. Barbara (Orange) #2 defeated Archangels (Stamford) #3 Championship Game: Championship Game: Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) defeated St. Barbara (Orange) St. Barbara (Orange) defeated Holy Trinity (New Rochelle)Senior Junior Division League Champion: Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) Division League Champion: St. Barbara (Orange) www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 64 Connecticut Eastern Orthodox Volleyball League

Connecticut Eastern Orthodox Volleyball League Volleyball – Final Regular Season Standings Rank team Wins loses 1 Holy Trinity (Bridgeport) 9 0 2 Holy Trinity (Waterbury) 9 2 3 st. Barbara (Orange) 8 3 4 Archangels (Stamford) 5 6 5 Annunciation (Stamford) 4 8 6 Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) (A) 3 8 7 Holy Trinity (New Rochelle) (B) 0 11

Volleyball Playoffs: Holy Trinity (Bridgeport) #1 vs. Archangels (Stamford) #4 Holy Trinity (Waterbury) #2 defeated St. Barbara (Orange) #3 Championship Game: Holy Trinity (Waterbury) defeated Holy Trinity (Bridgeport) Saint Barbara Volleyball Team Volleyball League Champion: Holy Trinity Waterbury Saint Barbara’s volleyball team faced its fair share of ups and downs this year, finally finishing in third place in the league with an 8-4 record. Unfortunately, our season came to an end after a hard fought loss to eventual champion Waterbury in the league semi-finals. Undersized compared to some of our counterparts, the team pulled together with a team-first philosophy and had some great success with contributions from all of our players. With a smaller team than we’ve had in years past, we will severely miss Georgia Loucopoulos & Penelope Papanikolaou to graduation, but we hope some new young players will join us for the 2011-12 season.

Saint Barbara Intermediate Basketball Team: (back row left-right) Milton Savakis Head Coach, Nicholas Laskos, Taylor Tambis, Matthew Redding, Paul Redding Assistant Coach, Steven Antonellis, Niko Koutroumanis Front row left-right: TJ Redding, Costa Loucopoulos, Michael Antonellis, Ben Feola Not pictured: Elias Papadimitriou Saint Barbara Volleyball Team: (front row left-right) Penelope Papanikolao, Eva Karakolidis, Maria Bakoussis Back row left- right: Georgia Loucopoulos, Ryan Soennichsen Head Coach, Nina Waskiewicz, Chelsea Tambis, Stephanie Simoulis, Andrianna Papadimitriou, Alexandria Stefanou, Despina Soennichsen Head Coach Not pictured: Elli Emmanouil, Irene Antar www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 65 Saint Barbara Junior Basketball Team - Athletic Teams Go To YALE

Saint Barbara Junior Basketball Team This year the team was led by four players who are moving up to the Intermediate team next year. Ben Feola led all By Elias Alexiades, Junior Team Coach scorers with 263 points, followed by T.J. Redding with The Saint Barbara Junior Basketball Team completed 147 points and Elias Papadimitriou who contributed 120 another successful season in the Connecticut Eastern points and a strong inside presence. Zachary Tomaszek Orthodox Basketball League, finishing in second place paced us with his quickness, rebounding and steals. We in the year-end league championship tournament in look forward to competing again next year with returning Bridgeport on March 6th and 7th. players Nick Alexiades, Theo Stefanou, Nick Savakis, Elis Feola and George Antonellis. We played a thrilling final game against Holy Trinity of New Rochelle, falling behind early but going on a 13 - 2 run to close within four points at halftime. In the second half, our boys tied the game and even took a two point lead, but ultimately fell short 59 - 54. We finished the regular season tied for first place with Holy Trinity of New Rochelle with ten wins and two losses. We won the first playoff tournament game against Holy Trinity of Bridgeport in a game that was close until the end. Our boys were down by two points at halftime but finished strong to win 61 - 49. Our overall record including the playoffs was 11 - 3. Our boys all played hard and represented the parish well. Saint Barbara Athletic Teams Take in a Game at the Payne Whitney Gymnasium Members of the Saint Barbara Basketball Teams together with their parents, gathered in New Haven recently to kick off an evening of fun and excitement. The night began at Yorkside Restaurant, a popular eatery for Yale students since 1969, where everyone enjoyed a wonderfully prepared meal. The group then proceeded toYale's historic Payne Whitney Gymnasium where Yale was playing host to the Ivy League leading team from Harvard University.

The Yale/Harvard rivalry is one of legend and our group was treated to a spectacular game as the Yale Bulldogs toppled Harvard's basketball team in a thrilling 70-69 victory before a raucous crowd of 2,249.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 66 Saint Barbara Summer Camp

Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church summer Camp 2011 Monday - Friday June 27 - July 1 Open to all Children Ages 4-13 Open to counselors Ages 14 and up pre-school children (ages 4-5) attend from 9:00 am - 12:30 pm children who have completed kindergarten - 7th grade attend from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Staff & counselor positions available Registration fee: 1 child...... $185.00 2 Children...... $350.00 3 Children...... $500.00 Non-stewards...... $250.00 (per child) Early bird special Register by may 15, 2011 and save 10% per camper!

registration fee covers expenses for session supplies, t-shirt, arts & crafts, athletics, snack & Lunch Registration form Available on the Parish Web site: www.saintbarbara.org

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 67 Presbytera's Paragraph - Luminaria

Presbytera’s Paragraph heights let us raise our prayer, where the Queen of Heaven shines in glory, there let our songs and prayer proceed. Hearken unto us, By: Vangie Ellen Orfanakos oh living Christ, Lord have mercy. Oh help us, ye holy Saints of A written column of comfort for the weary soul. Heaven, oh lend your aid, ye lovers of our God, by your prayers you May these writings refresh your determination to grow in the knowledge of our Lord. purify our prayers, and present them to almighty Christ. Hearken God speaks in sentences in our hearts, all we need to do unto us, oh living Christ, Lord have mercy. Oh help us, the Queen of is to de-code these heartfelt messages with prayer. As we all the heavens, pure Virgin, the hope of all the ailing, with thy tears pray, we are illumined with a firm faith, as inwardly, we purify our tears, and bring them to thy son, our God. Hearken unto stand on the Rock of Salvation with our enduring hope us, oh living Christ, Lord have mercy. in Christ Our Savior, we hear His whispers, as we sing His praise. The following prayerful words are from the hymn entitled “Prayer On The Resurrection” from the Nuns of Saint Paisius Monastery in Safford, Arizona. This CD, “A Treasury Of Spiritual Songs” can be purchased at our Saint Barbara bookstore or on the monastery website: www.stpaisiusmonastery.org

Luminaria A special thank you to all parishioners and friends of Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, who generously supported the Luminaria as part of the Holy Friday evening service. Father Peter led the congregation in a prayerful pilgrimage around the grounds of our Church as the path was lit by memorable Luminaria - each one hand-scripted with the name of a loved one. As those gathered, sang the thrice holy hymn of Ayios O Theos, the remembrance of our Lord and Savior was first and foremost on each persons mind and heart. The Luminaria reminded us all of the on-going Light of Christ unto eternity. We thank the support of each person who participated in the services of Holy Week and in all the preparations for Pascha! Come let us, lift up our eyes to heaven, where the stars above tell us of Over 975 Luminaria were lining the path around the our God, where Christ reigns eternally in glory, and where holy souls church on Holy Friday. We acknowledge a heartfelt thank abide in love, hearken unto us, oh living Christ, Lord have mercy. you for the generous donation of all of the supplies Come let us, lift up our hearts far higher, where the smell of death for the Luminaria by a family from our Saint Barbara approaches no longer, where the holy sweetness is eternal, where the Community, and for the many people who assisted in saints abide now with the angels, hearken unto us, oh living Christ, making this fund raiser a beautiful way to grow in faith, Lord have mercy. Come let us, yearn inwardly for heaven, and to the give to the Church, and remember those we love.

www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 68 Letters to the Saint Barbara Parish

Letters to the Saint Barbara Parish candle and prayed and sang along with your choir during the Lamentation Service on Good Friday. I will do the Regarding our On-Line Services: same tomorrow during the Resurrection Service. From Grand Rapids, Michigan From an On-Line Parishioner Christ is Risen! Unfortunately, I could not attend Thank you for making it possible for me to partake in Holy Friday services at our parish, Holy Trinity Greek the Holy Friday services via my computer. I was not Orthodox Church here in Grand Rapids, Michigan. My able to attend church this year, and I was so grateful for husband went but I stayed home with our two-year-old the online service that St Barbara offered. It worked daughter. very well on my computer. I hope the Parish and the I was thrilled to find through the Archdiocese website Archdiocese will continue this program. Thank you. that your church was live streaming. Father Peter From Frankford, Kentucky celebrated such a beautiful service. It made me feel like I was actually at church and not missing one of my I have been watching your services online and have favorite services of the year. Thanks again! May God enjoyed them so much! My husband and I are not able bless all of you! to attend our Greek church in Lexington for Easter services. You have helped fill that absence for me. From Aspen, Colorado Thank you so much! Thank you very much for your live broadcasts. I am in From Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania Aspen, Colorado and the closest church is hours away. I am very grateful to be able to go to church every Sunday Many thanks for providing the live on-line Resurrection - through your broadcasts. Thank you again. service. We were able to sing and celebrate with you in our home while our little ones slept. Our best to you and From Toronto, Canada. Presvytera Vangie, from her hometown. Thank you for your live broadcast of the Holy Thursday From Fort Worth, Texas service. Both my son and I have been ill this week and unable to attend services. I enjoyed watching part of this My wife and I are Orthodox Christians who live in the evening's service both on my laptop and on my i-phone. Fort Worth, Texas area. We are members of St. Demetrios The connection and clarity was excellent. Thanks to Greek Orthodox Church in Fort Worth, Texas. Saturday you and your church for providing this ministry. We are evening we were not able to attend Pascha services at hoping to get the technology in our church up and going our local church do to inclement weather in the area. soon. Kali Anastasi! After doing some research on the Internet I located your website and saw that you were providing live coverage of From an On-Line Parishioner your church’s Pascha liturgy. I just wanted to tell you that I am getting married to someone who is not Greek we really enjoyed the opportunity to participate in that Orthodox. So, I was trying to find a way for him to service even though we were not physically within the understand what we do during Holy Week and the brick and mortar confines of your church! The service meaning behind it. The first website that came up on was beautiful and we felt totally emerged in the ceremony my search was yours. I think it is wonderful and found itself. Thank you again for providing this service to the it very helpful to me and my fiancé. Thank you and Kali community. We intend to visit your website more often Anastasi! to take advantage of other opportunities to broaden our faith. From Oakland, California From Virginia Beach, Virginia I am most thankful and grateful to you for providing live Holy Week services. I recently had surgery and I have enjoyed and benefited by hearing the theme of regretted having to miss the services at my church, but ‘we are not alone, we stand together’ in several of your was delighted to discover your web site with live services. sermons we have watched in recent months. I think our I have sung in my church choir many years and regretted first Granddaughter is getting this message when we having to miss out this year, but thanks to you, I lit my Skype with her and her mommy, singing, “This Little www.saintbarbara.org Spring 2011 / The Ministry • 69 Letters to the Saint Barbara Parish - Sponsors

Light of Mine”, as we all circle our index finger around We thank the following professionals for their support. as light! It’s a very encouraging message. Thank you for offering the broadcast of your services. PEDIATRIC REHAB & FITNESS We recently graduated from Yale, and have since moved A New Comprehensive Facility Designed For Children to Virginia, where we attend St. Nicholas in Virginia We specialize in treating children with: Beach, and Sts Constantine and Helen in Newport Phyical challenges, neurological conditions News. Truly, you are a blessing on days such as this, Speech and language delays and autism when the weather is inclement, or for other reasons we Fitness and Exercise Programs are unable to attend church services here. Thanks again. 18 years of experience We had one daffodil in the yard, so we picked it and will 917 Bridgeport Avenue Shelton,CT 203-225-7514 www.pedirehab.com place the icons nearby, as you have suggested. Blessings and Joy to you. CEMETERY PLOTS AVAILABLE From Shreveport, Louisiana Saint Barbara Church has several grave plots Christos Anesti! We have enjoyed watching your services at Beaverdale cemetery available for purchase. now for several months. We especially appreciated your Parishioners who are interested Holy Week services from Thursday night through the in more information service of the Resurrection on Saturday night. Your are asked to contact the Church Office reverence, respect, dignity and your Christian love 203-795-1347 is shown throughout the services for all to see. Your chanters and your choir are outstanding. We wish you continued success and may God Bless all of you - priest, CONNECTICUT FURS, INC. chanters, choir and altar boys (here we must include the OF NEW BRITAIN young ladies who attended the epitafio) for making such LEO STILIDES a beautiful presentation. 111 West Main Street New Britain, CT 06051 Regarding Nashville Relief Fund 860-229-2078 From the Metropoilis of Detroit Est. 1923 Dear Father Peter and Faithful of the Saint Barbara Parish, We pray that this letter finds you well and enjoying the FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY blessings of the Lord. ANNA RAHO, DDS We would like to thank you for your donation of $500 for White Fillings - Implants - Veneers - Crowns/Bridges - Dentures the Nashville Relief Fund. Your generous donation has Emergencies Seen Promptly helped in our efforts as a Metropolis and Archdiocese to New Patients Always Welcome aid the people of Nashville in their time of need. 70 Cherry Street, Milford 203-877-0377 Conveying to you the prayers and blessings of His www. MyMilfordDentist.com Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas, I remain In His Service, Harriet Stoukas, Metropolis of Detroit National Day of Prayer Space Available May 5, 2011 Call the Church Office for Information Father Peter participated in a prayer ceremony in honor of the National Day of Prayer. The event was held at the Orange Community Center on a crisp Spring day.

www.saintbarbara.org Fall 2010 / The Ministry • 70 Sponsors

We thank the following professionals for their support.

INTERNAL MEDICINE OF MILFORD, P.C. OB GYN PHYSICIANS, P.C. PARIS SPANOLIOS, M.D. KAY KOUROUNIS DOHR, M.D. 40 Commerce Park, Milford, CT 06460 Hours by Appointment 203-878-3531 309 Seaside Avenue Fluent in Greek Milford, CT 06460 Most Insurance Accepted - Please Call for Appointment 203-877-5634 203-876-1840 (fax) CHIP'S RESTAURANT YORKSIDE PIZZA RESTAURANT George Chatzopoulos Tony & Maria Koutroumanis Serving famous pancakes & omelets George & Nota Koutroumanis lunch and dinner since 1966 Come and Experience Yale's Most Popular 321 Boston Post Road (Route 1) Orange, CT 06477 Restaurant for over 30 years! 203-795-5065 203-799-0827 (fax) 203-787-7471 203-787-7472 www.chipsrest.com 288 York Street, New Haven GREGORY J. STAMOS ACE CARTING, LLC ATTORNEY AT LAW John Vasil 200 Main Street Residential - Commercial P.O. Box 166 Owner Operated Quality Service at a Reasonable Price Ansonia, CT 06401-0166 Dumpster/Roll-Off Containers 8-40 yards 203-735-9293 (phone) Orange, CT 203-734-5056 (fax) 203-795-3797

AEGEAN FLORIST DR. ESTELL PAPPAS Flowers for all occasions at wholesale prices DISEASES AND SURGERIES OF THE FOOT AND ANKLE Holidays are here, send some cheer! 136 Sherman Ave. 3851 Whitney Ave. Maria Fifis New Haven, CT 06511 Hamden, CT 06518 203-795-9051 or 203-435-1734 203-624-9991 203-248-6543 Aegean will donate 6% of your total order to the Saint Barbara Pantocrator Fund Most Insurance Accepted

CHRISTINE & GERALD BALDINO BUFFALO WILD WINGS SHAKLEE DISTRIBUTORS SINCE 1982 GRILL & BAR 203-410-6604 [email protected] Natural Food Suppliments, Health Wealth Management 1201 Boston Post Road Anti-Aging Skin Care, Makeup & Program Milford, Connecticut 06460 Natural Pain Maagement, Non-Toxic Household at Products, Air & Water Purification Westfield Connecticut Post Mall www.commensensehealth.myshaklee.com BBB, Accedited Business Phone: 203-877-WILD Fax: 203-877-WINGS

www.saintbarbara.org Fall 2010 / The Ministry • 71 Presorted First Class U.S. POSTAGE PAID New Haven, Conn. Permit No. 1108

Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church 480 Racebrook Road, Orange, CT 06477 Tel. (203) 795-1347 • Fax: (203) 795-1348 www.saintbarbara.org • [email protected]