From Glory to Glory The monthly newsletter of the Assumption Greek Orthodox Church

Fr. Joseph Strzelecki December 2019

The Gift of Christmas Theo Nicolakis 1755 Des Peres Road Town & Country, MO 63131-1405 he Christmas season is such a beautiful time of the year. Lights, candles, Phone: 314-966-2255 T and cutout snowflakes begin to decorate our city’s streets. People begin to Kitchen: 314-966-6720 adorn their homes with the colors of red and green, wreaths, candles, and Web Site: www.assumptiongoc.org dazzling arrays of lights. These decorations even spill into our schools and businesses. That’s the Christmas season! That is the Christmas season? [email protected] This past week, as I was speaking with one of my staff members, we began to Office Manager: Diane Sieckmann discuss putting up Christmas decorations in the office. As we were talking Email: [email protected] about Christmas decorations, she told me that at her son’s school, her son’s class had to write an essay on what Christmas meant to them. When her son showed her the essay he had written, she did not see any mention whatsoever about Jesus or His Birth. So she asked her son why he didn’t mention anything Dates to Remember about Jesus. He responded to her and said, "Well mom, Christmas isn’t about Christ anymore"; that’s not what it is about anymore? Then what is Christmas December 4 about? "It’s about presents, "he said. Great Martyr Barbara It’s about presents. When I first heard this story, I was shocked and disturbed; but the more I December 5 thought about it, the more I began to realize that he’s right. Christmas really is St. Savvas the Sanctified about presents. December 6 But what kind of presents? St. Nicholas the Wonderworker It’s about a father who punished his three-year-old daughter for wasting a

December 12 roll of gold wrapping paper. Since money was tight, he became furious when St. Spyridon the Wonderworker his little daughter tried to decorate a box with gold wrapping paper and put it under the Christmas tree. Yet, on Christmas day, the little girl brought the gift December 15 wrapped in gold paper to her father and said, "This is for you, Daddy." When Holy Forefathers he saw the gift, he was embarrassed by his earlier reaction, but his anger flared St. Eleftherios up again when he unwrapped the gift, opened the box, and found it to be December 22 empty. Genealogy of Christ "Don’t you know that when you give someone a present, there’s supposed to be something inside of it?" he shouted. With tears in her eyes, the little girl December 24 St. Eugenia looked up at him and said, "Daddy, it’s not empty. I blew kisses into the box and put them in there for you." Her father then smiled, put his arms around his December 25 little girl, and begged her forgiveness and kept that gold box by his bed for Nativity of Christ years so that whenever he was discouraged he would take out a kiss and

December 26 remember the love of his little daughter who put it there. — The gift of love. Synaxis of the Theotokos It’s about presents. Christmas really is about presents. It’s about a contest held to find the most caring child. The winner was a December 27 four-year-old boy whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman who First Martyr Stephen had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the gentleman’s yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there. When his mother asked the little boy what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said, "Nothing… I just helped him cry." — The gift of consolation.

2019 Parish Council It’s about presents. Christmas really is about presents. It’s about a four-year-old who went to the pediatrician for a check up. As Fr. Joseph Strzelecki the doctor looked down her ears with an otoscope, he asked, "Do you think I’ll Scott Thompson, President Greg Simos, Vice President find Big Bird in here?" The little girl stayed silent. Next, the doctor took a Elefteria Marcou, Secretary tongue depressor and looked down her throat. He asked, "Do you think I’ll find Gus Harris, Treasurer the Cookie Monster down there?" Again, the little girl was silent. Then the doc- Peter Regopoulos, Assistant Treasuer tor put a stethoscope to her chest. As he listened to her heartbeat, he asked, "Do Daniel Gantner, Carol Marshall, Pam Martin, Samia Rabie, Vasilios Simos, Greg Simos, you think I’ll hear Barney in here?" Oh no!", the little girl replied. "Jesus is in Sotirios Sotiriou, Tom Stamos, Chris Tsoubanos, my heart." — The gift of faith. Nick Tsoubanos, Tonis Zafiropoulos It’s about presents. Christmas really is about presents. It’s about God, who loved each one of us so much that he gave us his only Acolytes begotten Son, Jesus Christ so that whoever believes in Him should not perish John Nicholas Adult Orthodox Christians (18 years +): but have eternal life. — The ultimate gift. Diane Sieckmann It’s about presents. Christmas really is about presents; but it’s not about the Bible Study presents we give that we bought at the local Toys – R – Us, or the local Fr. Daniel Morton department store. It’s not about the giving of money; Christmas is not about a Bookstore Christos Tsiaklides, Diakonissa Kristen Vogt holiday season. Chanters Rather, Christmas is about the gift of giving of ourselves. Giving of our time Thomas Carroll, Dr. Steve Leon and talents so that we might touch the life of another. And the reason why we Choir give of ourselves is because we commemorate the gift God gave us — His Son. Stephanie Saunders So what gift we will give this Christmas? But not only this Christmas, but also Church Tours Janice Hazeltine every day of the year. Will it be the gift of love by telling our family and friends Friday Luncheon how special they are to us? The gift of consolation by remembering those who Art Liyeos have no one else to remember them; by visiting those who have no one to visit Greek Festival them? Bringing the gift of laughter to those who are in sorrow; imparting the Greg Simos, Art Liyeos Greek School gift of faith, by keeping Jesus Christ as the focus of our Christmas. Savas Kyramarios Therefore, how we can give of ourselves is perhaps summarized best in the Greek Dancers prayer of Francis of Assisi who said: Kyklos: & Armonia Stella Afentoullis O Lord, make us instruments of your peace. Ta Paidakia, Neo Kyma: Aliki Malek Where there is hatred, let us sow love. GOYA (9th -12th Grade) Yvonne Alexopoulos, Dr. Jenny Kardaris Where there is injury, pardon, Greeters Where there is doubt, faith, Mary Pitliangas Where there is despair, hope, JOY (Kindergarten - 4th Grade) Where there is darkness, light, Jr. GOYA (5th - 8th Grades) Alki Lappas Case, Dr. Debbie Cosmopoulos And where there is sadness, joy. Kafenio O Divine Master, grant that we may not so much seek to be consoled, Art Liyeos as to console; Hope (infant - 5 years) To be understood, as to understand; Christos & Rachel Tsiaklides, To be loved, as to love; Orthodox Faith & Life: Dr. Farid Sadaka, Anna Sadaka For it is in giving that we receive Philoptochos It is in pardoning that we are pardoned; Flora Dimitriou, President And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Planned Giving Committee Amen. Amy Johnson https://www.goarch.org/-/the-gift-of-christmas Prison Ministry Bill Goranitis Stewardship Christmas Fast Michael Afentoullis The forty day fast period before the Nativity of our Lord begins on November Sunday School 15. The traditional fast consists of abstinence from meat, dairy, and eggs. On Diane Sieckmann Wednesdays and Fridays for twelve days (beginning at St. Spyridon’s Days Vacation Church Camp (VCC) Anna Sadaka December 12) before Christmas, there is also abstinence from fish. Those who Women’s Bookstudy are following the strict fast would also eliminate wine and oil on Wednesdays Presvytera Laura Morton and Fridays. Please consult your spiritual father for personal direction on Young Adult Ministry (18-30 yrs) fasting. This is a traditional time to come to receive the Sacrament of Holy James Murphy Confession. Please prepare to receive this most important sacrament which cleanses the heart and soul and prepares us for the feast of our Lord’s birth.

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Stewardship Ministries Spotlight: Stewardship is not just about money, it is about giving your time and talent towards the ministries of your parish. Here is a description of a ministry in our parish you can be a part of:

PRISON MINISTRY has been helping prisoners in the US Eastern District of Missouri with hygiene kits and clothing (for soon to be released men and women). Stewardship Corner: Faith With Philotimo The prison ministry also helps with “Family Day” at Fort Leavenworth and other prisons. Several children As the Father has sent me, so I send you” John 20:21 are bussed as well as counselors. Over the years this Family Day has resulted in much lower recidivism for To be stewards of the Gospel, we need to be stewards the participants. “Our liaison with the prisons pointed of our parish. We need to strive to live our “Faith out that during the eight years of sponsoring the family With Philotimo”. trips of children to see their parents in prison, only one parent of those visited wound up back in prison after This Stewardship corner is part of Assumption’s their release following a Family Day experience.” If continued effort to communicate to you (our interested in helping prison ministry, please talk to Bill stewards) about the meaning of stewardship. We will Goranitis. explain what we are doing and what we are planning, as there are a lot of ministries to be fulfilled with your Tony Zafiropoulos stewardship. Stewardship Communications

Michael Afentoullis Consider Giving Your Time and Talents: As you fill Stewardship Chairman out your Stewardship pledge cards for 2020 first consider helping your church with your Time and Talents. Consider giving your Time for 2020, there are many ministries (see 2nd page of this Newsletter), or talk to Fr. Joseph and/or parish council.

Consider Giving Increased Treasure Year Over Love never hates anyone, never reproves anyone, Year: A 10% increase in 2020 treasure commitment never condemns anyone, never grieves anyone, over your treasure commitment in 2019 will help never abhors anyone, neither faithful nor infidel meet the financial goals of our community to fund its nor stranger nor sinner nor fornicator, nor annual expenses (including inflation), but more anyone impure, but instead it is precisely sinners, importantly help fund our church’s faith and and weak and negligent souls that it loves more, philanthropic ministries and expand upon them. and feels pain for them and grieves and laments, and it feels sympathy for the wicked and sinners, Consider Tithing: Tithing is what we are asked and more than for the good, imitating Christ Who directed to do in the bible. We are to strive to give called sinners, and ate and drank with them. For 10% of our income as stewards of our parish. If you this reason, showing what real love is, He taught increase your treasure commitment year over year by saying, Become good and merciful like your 10%, before you know it you can end up finding Father in Heaven, and as He rains on bad and yourself Tithing. good and makes the sun to rise on just and unjust alike, so also is the one who has real love, Please contact Michael Afentoullis to help the and has compassion, and prays for all. Stewardship committee. Come and help us spread the Abba Ammonas good news of our parish in the expanded Stewardship committee (now with 9 team sub team leaders).

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Elder Joseph the Hesychast, those most vocal and strict against recognizing the OCU. The canonization of Elder Joseph the Hesychast is also Three other 20th Century Athonite Elders especially relevant for the English-speaking Orthodox Canonized world, as 17 monasteries were founded throughout America Mt. Athos, October 21, 2019 and Canada by Elder Ephraim, who resides at St. Anthony’s Monastery in Florence, Arizona. Elder Joseph’s precious atriarch Bartholomew made a joyous announcement skull is also cherished and venerated at St. Anthony’s, and during his homily at the Protaton Church in Karyes P his memory is venerated and propagated at these on Mt. Athos yesterday. monasteries. Though Elder Ephraim of Katounakia was not Many of the part of Elder Joseph’s brotherhood, he also learned the art of Athonite monks hesychasm from him, and their memories are bound up present were moved together. to tears, Mystagogy

reports, when Pat. “Papa Ephraim,” as he is lovingly known, said of Elder Bartholomew Joseph: Elder Joseph was a spiritual giant and a teacher of announced that the noetic prayer taught by God. His love for our dear Panagia Patriarchate of was unmatched. For her sake he patiently endured every- Constantinople had thing, and it was from her that he received the great char- decided to canonize ism of prayer of the heart. He was counted worthy of seeing four great 20th her many times in his temporal but angelic life. Alas! Where century Athonite are people like him nowadays to tell you heavenly words full elders, beloved of grace? His pure heart said the prayer without ceasing: throughout the Elder Joseph the Hesychast. “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me,” and the Holy Spirit Orthodox world: Photo: eospirituality.com was upon his head. Ieronymos of

Simenopetra (+ 1957), And he continues with a rather striking statement about the Daniel of Katounakia greatness of his spiritual father: I believe that Elder (+ 1929), Joseph the Joseph reached higher levels than St. Silouan the Athonite— Hesychast (+ 1959), and much higher, in fact. Nowadays there are no figures like Ephraim of Katounakia him anymore; he was the last one (My Elder Joseph the (+ 1998). Hesychast by Elder Ephraim, pp. 668-669). It is reported that Abbot Ephraim of Vatopaidi, a spiritual Elder Daniel grandchild of Elder of Katounakia Joseph the Hesychast, (1846-1929) was especially expressed his tonsured at St. gratitude, saying: “We are Panteleimon’s moved, Your All- Monastery on Mt. Holiness, by this Elder Ephraim of Katounakia Athos and later announcement of the Photo: eospirituality.com lived at Vatopaidi, canonization of four new where he was elders of the Holy Mountain.” Pat. Bartholomew miraculously responded: “Holy Abbot, I was keeping it from you as a healed of surprise.” Elder Daniel of Katounakia. nephritis by the The announcement comes during a time of great Photo: johnsanidopoulos.com Holy Belt of the tension on the Holy Mountain and in the Orthodox Mother of God. world, with the monasteries split over the issue of recog- After 5 years in Vatopaidi, he became a hermit in nizing the “Orthodox Church of Ukraine.” There were Katounakia, where a brotherhood began to form around him fears of extreme reactions against Pat. Bartholomew’s after a few years. He is known to have had the gift of visit to Mt. Athos, though the trip has been peaceful thus spiritual counsel and consolation in sorrows, and saved far. many monks from spiritual delusion. The monks have been waiting for the canonization especially of Elder Joseph for a long time; 4 of the 20 monasteries are under the guidance of Elder Joseph’s spiritual child, Elder Ephraim, and have been among

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Elder Ieronymos of Sunshine Ministries Newsletter Simenopetra (1871-1957) For years, we’ve known Bessie Theodorou has been labored on the Holy faithful in her service to Sunshine Ministries. Look who is Mountain in current issue of the Sunshine Ministries newsletter. (The beginning in 1888. He hard copy of their newsletter is hanging on our bulletin became a great schema board in the hall way.) monk on Palm Sunday in 1893 and later served as A Holiday Season of … abbot of Simenopetra from 1920 to 1931, Giving a Helping Hand during which time the Santa and his reindeer (a.k.a Bryan Polk, Men’s monastery flourished. He Ministry Director, with Bessie Theodorou and her friends, retired to the metochion Eugenia Kirkou and Valerie Kopecky) are cooking up a of the Ascension in Athens, where he labored Elder Ieronymos of Simenopetra. until his repose in 1957. Photo: pemptousia.com

Parish Council Elections The Parish Council elections will be held on Sunday, December 15, 2019 from the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy until 2:00 pm in the Parish Council Room.

There are five outgoing members: Carol Marshall Samia Rabie Vasilios Simos Sotirios Sotiriou special holiday meal for the men in the Resident Shelter. Chris Tsoubanos For more than fifteen years, Bessie and her mom and friends have been treating the men to fabulous Greek The candidates to be voted upon are as follows: Gourmet meals which always include their signature James Cawood homemade dinner rolls. The annual Christmas feast is a Sonia Zamanou-Erickson special highlight of the season! James Hoekel Bessie has had many trials in her own life, but is quick Maria Humphrey to share how God has carried her though the tough times Amy Kirkou “I am blessed every time I serve the men at Sunshine Alexandra Pelekanou Ministries” she says, “because this is my way of giving Samia Rabie back and paying it forward.” Eugenia Stamos All of us at Sunshine are so very grateful for the many Chris Tsoubanos volunteers who take time to extend a helping hand by Christos Tsiaklides serving our men, women and children throughout the year. Katia Tambassis

All stewards who are canonically in good standing with the church and current in their 2019 stewardship commitment by Sunday, December 15, 2019 are invited to He who keeps watch vote. over the words he is about to say, New stewards should have been financially enrolled in also keeps watch over the parish at least three months prior to the election. The treasurer will be in the office following the Divine the deeds he is about to do. Liturgy for those who wish to make a payment on their commitment. St. Nektarios of Aegina There will be no absentee voting.

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Τα προσωνύμια της Παναγίας, όμως, της αποδίδονται Τα 500 ονόματα της Παναγίας και ανάλογα με τον τρόπο που είναι ζωγραφισμένη η Αμέτρητα είναι τα ονόματα, ή «Θεοτοκωνύμια» εικόνα της. Οπως υπενθυμίζει ο κ. Καριώτογλου, η όπως λέγονται, που έχει δώσει ο λαός στην Παναγία. Παναγία αποκαλείται και Γλυκοφιλούσα, Μέχρι στιγμής υπολογίζεται πως ξεπερνούν τα 500. Βρεφοκρατούσα, Γαλακτοτροφούσα, Δακρυροούσα, Άλλα βγαλμένα από ύμνους, άλλα από τον τόπο που Θρηνούσα, Δεξιά, Τριχερούσα. Η εικόνα της Παναγίας βρίσκεται κάποιος Ναός ή Μοναστήρι κι άλλα της Τριχερούσας βρίσκεται στη Μονή Χιλανδαρίου εξαιτίας του τρόπου που έχει αγιογραφηθεί. «Η στο Αγιον Ορος. Η απεικόνιση της Παναγίας με τρία ονοματοδοσία γίνεται συνήθως ανάλογα με τον τόπο χέρια αποδίδεται στην εξής ιστορία: Ο άγιος Ιωάννης ή τον τρόπο που έχει γίνει η εικονογράφηση», λέει ο ο Δαμασκηνός κρατώντας το κομμένο δεξί του χέρι, το διδάκτωρ Θεολογίας Α. Καριώτογλου. Μητέρα, οποίο του κόπηκε από τους εικονομάχους, προστάτιδα, τιμώμενη, ιερό πρόσωπο: Η Παναγία παρακάλεσε την Παναγία να μη μείνει ανάπηρος. κατέχει πρωταρχική θέση στην τιμή και στον Χάρη σε θαύμα της Παναγίας συγκολλήθηκε το άκρο σεβασμό των χριστιανών σε κάθε γωνιά της και εκείνος της αφιέρωσε ασημένιο ανάθημα σε σχήμα Ελλάδας, είτε νησιωτική είτε ηπειρωτική. Της έχουν χεριού. Η θέση του στη συγκεκριμένη εικόνα το κάνει αφιερώσει μεγαλοπρεπείς εκκλησίες και ταπεινά να φαίνεται σαν ένα τρίτο χέρι της Παναγίας. ξωκλήσια. Την αποκαλούν Θεοτόκο, αλλά της έχουν Ακόμη μία εκδοχή για την απόδοση ενός δώσει και πολυάριθμα προσωνύμια. προσωνυμίου στη Θεοτόκο είναι ο συσχετισμός της με Ειναι πρώτα αυτα που εκφράζουν ιδιότητες της γεγονότα ή φυσικά φαινόμενα. Μια πολύ γνωστή Παναγίας, όπως Παντάνασσα, Ελεούσα, Γιάτρισσα, Παναγία είναι η Φιδούσα στην Κεφαλονιά. Κάθε Φοβερά Προστασία, Οδηγήτρια, Γοργοεπήκοος, χρόνο, κοντά στον Δεκαπενταύγουστο, στο χωριό Ελευθερώτρια, Ευαγγελίστρια, Παμμακάριστος, Μαρκόπουλο της Κεφαλονιάς εμφανίζονται και Γουμένισσα. κυκλοφορούν στις εικόνες των ναών του χωριού μικρά Αλλα ονόματα βασίζονται στον τόπο ή στον τρόπο και ακίνδυνα φιδάκια. Επίσης, στη Σάμο υπάρχει το που έχει γίνει η εικονογράφηση. Όπως συμπληρώνει μοναστήρι της Παναγίας της Βροντιανής, που ο κ. Καριώτογλου, «μπορεί να υπάρχει και ένας ονομάστηκε έτσι γιατί στο υψόμετρο που βρίσκεται τρίτος τρόπος ονοματοδοσίας, ανάλογα με τη σχέση φυσάει δυνατός άνεμος ο οποίος βροντάει. Στα του Χριστού με την Παναγία. «Εκτός από την Κύθηρα, υπάρχει η Παναγία η Μυρτιδιώτισσα που Παναγία τη Γλυκοφιλούσα, που ο Χριστός αγγίζει το βρέθηκε ανάμεσα σε μυρτιές. Στη Ρόδο, η Παναγία η μάγουλο της μητέρας του, σε όλες τις άλλες Τσαμπίκα. Στο νομό Σερρών, η Παναγία η παραστάσεις υπάρχει μια σχετική απόσταση, η Εικοσιφίνισσα. οποία συμβολίζει την ισορροπημένη σχέση που Στην Ηπειρο, η Παναγία η Μολυβδοσκέπαστη, και η πρέπει να έχει η μητέρα με το παιδί». Παναγία η Πλακιώτισσα. Στη Ζάκυνθο, στη Μονή Από τις πιο γνωστές Παναγίες, που πήραν το όνομά Στροφάδων, βρίσκεται η εικόνα της Παναγίας της τους ανάλογα με τη γεωγραφική θέση ή την Θαλασσομαχούσας. Σύμφωνα με την παράδοση, η τοποθεσία που βρίσκονται οι αντίστοιχες εκκλησίες, εικόνα, που κάποτε εκλάπη, πάλεψε με τα κύματα και είναι οι εξής: η Παναγία Σουμελά, η Παναγία η έφτασε στο Μοναστήρι χωρίς να καταστραφεί στη Ιεροσολυμίτισσα, η Παναγία της Τήνου, η Παναγία θάλασσα. Κύκκου στην Κύπρο, η Παναγία η Κανάλα στην Σε άλλες περιπτώσεις η Παναγία ονομάζεται ανάλογα Κύθνο , η Παναγία η Λιμνιά στη Λίμνη Ευβοίας, η με την ημερομηνία που γιορτάζει. Ετσι, στη Σαντορίνη Παναγία η Καπνικαραία, η Παναγία Κορμπόβου απαντάται η Παναγία η Τριτιανή που γιορτάζει την Τρικάλων, η Παναγία η Αγιασώτισσα στην Αγιάσο, τρίτη ημέρα του Πάσχα και στη Σίφνο η Παναγία η και η Παναγία η Φοδελιώτισσα στο Φόδελε του Δεκαπεντούσα, που γιορτάζει το Δεκαπενταύγουστο. Ηρακλείου Κρήτης. Η ύπαρξη αυτής της πλούσιας ονοματολογίας δεν Υπάρχουν, όμως, και άλλοι χαρακτηρισμοί που σημαίνει απλώς μια συναισθηματική σχέση του λαού προσδιορίζουν το σημείο όπου βρίσκεται χτισμένος ο με την Παναγία, αλλά κυρίως το γεγονός ότι μέσα από ναός, όπως: Παναγία Σπηλιανή, που βρίσκεται στο αυτόν τον πλούτο των ονομάτων επισημαινόταν η Πυθαγόρειο Σάμου αλλά και στη Νίσυρο, Παναγία σημασία του προσώπου για τη Σωτηρία του κόσμου: η Γκρεμιώτισσα που βρίσκεται στην Ιο, Παναγία αγιωτάτη Μαρία, η θυγάτηρ του Ιωακείμ και της Σαραντασκαλιώτισσα στον Μαραθόκαμπο Σάμου, Αννης, έγινε το σκεύος εκλογής για να λάβει σάρκα εξ’ Παναγία Εκατονταπυλιανή στην Πάρο, Παναγία αυτής ο Θεός, να γίνει ο Θεός άνθρωπος και να Θαλασσινή στην Άνδρο, που είναι χτισμένη σε βράχο διασωθεί το ανθρώπινο γένος και ο κόσμος από τη μέσα στη θάλασσα, Παναγία η Κρεμαστή στην φθορά του θανάτου. Ηλεία, όπου η Μονή κρέμεται από έναν βράχο, Παναγία η Μαλεβή στον Πάρνωνα Αρκαδίας. Για την αντιγραφή: Δημήτρης Κάγκαρης

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In Our Prayers Nora (Elaine) Bangert Seraphima Henderson Parish News Thekla (Rebecca) Kagaris Dean Kases Janie (Zafera) Kyramarios George Lambos

Congratulations

JT and Sisi Surgant on the birth of their daughter, Mia Important Malika, on October 23, 2019. Proud grandparents are John Please inform Fr. Joseph immediately when you or any and Carol Surgant. member of your family is sick or hospitalized, Nick and Samantha (Kayser) Khodai on the birth of their so that appropriate prayer and visitation may be scheduled. son Henry Michael , on October 25, 2019. Proud Hospitals do not notify clergy of patients, even if you list grandmother is RoseMarie Harpole. yourself as a Church member.

Baptisms/Chrismations

Mia Oday Abuaita, daughter of Oday and Sandy Missouri Flag $96.00 (Alyataim) Abuaita, was baptized on October 20, 2019. Her Thank you to Thomas & Olena Schafbuch godparents are Wafa and Abla Rishmawy.

Opal Ann Downs, daughter of Caleb Downs and Alexandra Extra Virgin Olive Oil $20/bottle Veros, was baptized on November 3, 2019. Her godparent Patriarchal Flag $289.00 is Christopher Veros. Holy Water bottles…………..$308.00 Icons each approximately $50 -$70 Weddings St. Porphyrios Bobby Tsiaklides and Tonya McFerrin were united in Holy Elder Amphilochios Makris Matrimony on Friday, October 25, 2019. The Orthodox St. Euphemia sponsor was Christos Tsiaklides. Please call the church office if you would like to donate any of these items. Brian Inkley and Kristen Gibbs were united in Holy Matrimony on Saturday, November 2, 2019. The Orthodox sponsor was Joseph Gibbs.

Funerals Memorials/Trisagia

Donald L. Zelle passed away on October 22, 2019. A funeral service was at St. Thomas the Apostle Orthodox November 3 Church Private burial at Oak Hill Cemetery. Memorial Departed Members of Hellenic Progressive American League (HAPL) Anthony “Tony” Karakas fell asleep in the Lord on Friday, November 17 October 25, 2019. The funeral service was at Assumption 1 year George Leontsinis Greek Orthodox Church, on Wednesday, October 30, 2019. Interment in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery. December 1 20 year Kostandinos “Gus” Nicozisin Thomas B. McCaskill, father of Latham (Felicia Kantis) McCaskill, passed away on Friday, November 1, 2019 in December 8 Monroe, NC. A Service of Remembrance was held on Sat- 1 year Presvytera Androniki “Enda” Regopoulos urday, November 9, 2019 at Union Presbyterian Church in Cameron, NC. December 22 22 year George Siappas Valasia Antonas passed away on November 5, 2019 in 30 year George Zografakis 53 year Ellie Siappas Paradisi, Rhodes, Greece. She is the mother of Savas (Agnes) Antonas and sister of Steve (Eleftheria) December 29 Afentoullis 3 year Alexander “Ollie” Aslan

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Holiday Sales Philoptochos Corner You are almost out of time! During coffee hour we will be The Assumption Ladies Philoptochos selling the Community Christmas card, pastry boxes & Society trays, spanakopites & tiropites and last but not least we will be taking orders for vasilopites. Come find us at the Philoptochos table under our banner. Faith, Family & Friends Be grateful and thank God for all of your blessings! Philoptochos Christmas Party Please join us for our annual Philoptochos Christmas Party No one has ever become poor by giving. ~ Anne Frank on Sunday, December 1, 2019 at Surf & Sirloin. The luncheon ticket price is $25 per person. Please come to the Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Philoptochos table to make a reservation. All reservations a Happy, Healthy & Prosperous New Year 2020! must be paid in full in order for your reservation to be held.

Kαλα Xριστουγεννα και Eυτυχισμενο το 2020 ~Tenderness and Kindness are not signs of weakness and despair, but manifestations of strenght and resolution.~ Metropolis News Kahlil Cibran On Thursday, October 31, 2019 I December National Commitments traveled to St. United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund Demetrios GOC in (UNICEF) – Benefits the United Nations International Elmhurst, Illinois. Children’s Emergency Fund As a new Metropolis Board Member, I General Medical Fund – Provides financial resources for was invited to attend individuals in need of assistance not specifically covered a vesper service for by other restricted National Funds or Programs the Feast Day of the Patron Saints of Evelyn’s House – BJC Hospice Philoptochos, Sts. We are stocking the snack pantry at the hospice house. If Cosmas and you would like to make a donation please see Flora Damianos. The Dimitriou for a list of items needed -Evelyn’s House is in parish of St. need of more crocheted lap blankets. If you have any inter- Demetrios also has a est in making a blanket please let us know. There is a size small chapel requirement for these lap blankets. If you would like any dedicated to Sts. more information on this project please see Flora Cosmas and Damianos. We blessed the artoclassia for the Dimitriou. health of our Metropolis Members. On Friday, November 1, 2019 I attended liturgy at the chapel and we had a me- 2020 General Meeting Dates: morial service for our dearly departed sisters. It was a January 12 - February 9 – March 8 – April 4 (Saturday beautiful way to start my 2 year term. 10am) – May 17

Acknowledgements 2020 Board Meeting Dates: Thank you to Saturday, January 11 at 10am Board Member Amalia Karakasis and friends for serving Saturday, June 13 at 10am coffee hour for the month of December There are 8760 hours in a year and we would like you to Dessie Bellos & Soula Marcou for Co-Chairing our give us 15. Please consider coming to our next meeting and Thanksgiving and Christmas Meals Committee. hearing about the great things our chapter is planning for

Helena Brown & Rose Harpole for Co-Chairing our 2020. Holiday Pastry Box & Tray Committee. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Popi Deros, Eleftheria Afentoullis for Co-Chairing our Holiday Spanakopita & Tiropita Holiday Sales. Flora Dimitriou, Philoptochos President Lila Nicholas, Sophia Evangelopoulos & Magda Dubis for [email protected] baking our Vasilopites for our Holiday Sales. 636-795-4602

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Assumption 2019 Community Christmas Card Sign up today to have your name included in this year’s Community Christmas Card and help support Philoptochos Charities. The suggested donation is $15.00. You can sign up during coffee hour or mail this sign-up sheet with your check to the Assumption Church office. The deadline to sign up is Sunday, December 1. Thank you

Please include our name in the 2019 Community Christmas Card. Please print our name in the following manner:

______

Please make checks payable to “Assumption Philoptochos Ladies Society” “Christmas Card Fundraiser “in the memo line. Drop off or Mail to: Assumption Greek Orthodox Church 1755 Des Peres Road Town & Country, MO 63131

The Assumption Ladies Philoptochos Society

Invites all women over 18 years of age of the Assumption Church and Community to our Christmas Celebration Luncheon Following Divine Liturgy Sunday, December 1, 2019 12:30 pm - 4:00 pm Surf and Sirloin, 13090 Manchester Rd, Des Peres, MO 63131 Ticket Price: $25.00

Don’t forget a small gift for: (no more than $10 to play) Rob Your Neighbor

To make reservation and menu choice, please see us under the Philoptochos banner every Sunday during coffee hour or call Diane Sieckmann at 314-966-2255 or 314-412-3476

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Assumption Philoptochos Ladies Society 2019 Holiday Food Sales Order Form All orders due by Wednesday, December 11.

Name: ______

Phone: ______email: ______

Boxes and Trays Assorted Greek Pastries

______(no. of boxes) ...... $5.00 per box $______(Perfect for teacher’s gifts)

______(no. of boxes) ...... $12.00 per box $______

______(no. of trays)...... $20.00 per tray $______

______(no. of trays)...... $35.00 per tray $______

Cookies

Koulourakia ______(# of cookies) ...... 0.25 each $______

Kourambeides ______(# of cookies) ...... 0.25 each $______

Melomacarona ______(# of cookies) ..... 0.50 each $______

Baklava ____(no of ½ trays 12 pieces) ... $36.00 each $______

Vasilopita ______(# of breads) ...... $15.00 each $______

Tiropita______(# of ½ pans) ...... $30.00 each $______½ pan cheese pie, frozen and ready to bake

Spanakopita ______(# of ½ pans) ...... $30.00 each $______½ pan cheese pie, frozen and ready to bake

Total Amount Due ...... $______

Pick up Date______

Check # ______Cash______

Credit Card ______

Exp.______Security Code ______

Thank you Thank you from the Assumption Ladies Philoptochos Society

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Assumption Youth Ministries

GOYA News

Here’s what GOYA has been up to: Save the Date For the GOYA Christmas December 27, 2019 More information to follow.

On October 19 GOYA went to the Forest Park Boathouse Jr GOYA News for a ride in the paddleboats and dinner. Dear Friends, Our next Jr. GOYA meeting is Saturday, December 14 for our Christmas party at the Cosmopoulos Home and then off to the Family Life Center for a combined youth event sponsored by the Chicago Metropolis Youth Ministries featuring Fr. Kosmas Kallis, Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministries. The kids are invited to our place at 2:30 pm for some holiday cheers and a rousing game of ‘Rob Your Neighbor’ to exchange gifts. Then at 5:00 pm, we will take the kids to the Y2AM On the Road event at the Family Life Center from close by. Should be a blast! Evites will go out in two weeks for RSVP. Congratulations and thank you to all families who contributed in the Jr. GOYA bake sale this past Sunday. The kids sold out of the yummy baked goods and raised over $240 dollars for Philoxenia House – well done! A special thank you to Alexandra Lederman for setting up On November 3, they went to the Ronald McDonald House such a fine table. to prepare a meal for the residents Debbie Cosmopoulos, Bethlehem Jr. Goya Advisor Means “House of Bread” in Aramaic and is the birthplace of Jesus as well as the birthplace of King David. It is inhab- Star in the Church of ited by one of the oldest Christian communities in the the Nativity marking world. The cave where the Theotokos bore Jesus is there the place where and called The Church of The Nativity, which is one of the Jesus was born biggest Christian pilgrimage sites in the world.

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Youth Sunday Youth Sunday was observed November 10, 2019 and is an annual evert in our parish where we hope to teach the youth of our parish that: They are valued members of our community; they can actively participate in the life of the Church; and That they are the present and future of the Church On Friday, November 8, we met in the Philoptochos Room at 6:30 pm and prepared for Sunday by making trays of Koliva, the wheat that is blessed in memorial services for our departed loved ones; baked the Prosphora the special bread that is offered to God every Sunday; decorated icons of St. Nektarios and St. John Chrysostom, learning that we decorate and care for icons to express our love for God and the saints and Jr. Goya prepared for the bake sale learning about the philanthropic mission of the Church and how worship continues outside the church during the week . After all that, we were treated to a special treat with Rebecca Kargaris, who was at one time our Youth Director. She talked about the life of St. Nektarios and played a rousing game of “WWSTD (What would St. Nektarios Do)”. Their answers were great! On Sunday, November 10 following Divine Liturgy and Sunday School the high schoolers served coffee hour and the Jr. Goyans held their bake sale. The money made at the bake sale will be donated to The Philoxenia House in Rochester, Minnesota. Youth Sunday is a very important teaching tool we can use to encourage our children to actively participate in the life of the Church. Thank you for your support of our youth.

Be imitators of me as I imitate Christ. St Paul -1 Corinthians 11:1

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Assumption Greek Orthodox Church Sunday School, Choir and Philoptochos

Invite you to the

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PAGEANT and SOCIAL

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22 JOIN THE CELEBRATION

Immediately following the Divine Liturgy at the

Assumption Greek Orthodox Church Come to see the 1755 Des Peres Rd. Sunday School Program Town & Country, MO 363131 7:00 pm Vespers and 8:00 pm Doors Open enjoy a light reception Dinner, Dancing, Greek & American Music before the program Cash Bar courtesy of Champagne toast with Vasilopita at midnight

The Assumption Ladies Adults $40 After November 30 $50 Philoptochos Society Teens 12-19 $25 Children 12 and under Free

Please call the church office at 314-966-2255 for reservations due by December 27

If you wish, you can be a slave of passions; and, if you wish, you can remain free and not submit to their yoke – for God has created you with the power and the strength to choose. St. Anthony the Great

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The Holy Monastery of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Ormylia, Greece has a Philanthropic center called "Panagia Philanthopini - Our Lady who Loves Mankind," whose mission is to comfort and alleviate the suffering of the poor and working class public without preference to race, religion, gender, or creed. The Center is dedicated to spreading the message of God’s love and saving grace through medical, educational, scientific research, charitable and spiritual services and ministries. The director of this center is Charles Anthony, a former parishioner of the Assumption. During this holy season, we Support and encouragement will take a collection to help the children's programs at this for your grief journey center. If you would like to give a donation for this cause, GriefShare is a special weekly seminar and please make a check payable to “The Assumption Church” support group designed to help you and mark it for “the Ormylia Foundation” and mail or drop it off at the church office. Thank you for your support. rebuild your life after losing a loved one.

Please join us beginning Tuesday,PARTY October 1, 2019 at 10:00 am. We will meet every Tuesday for 13 weeks A FOCUS “Needs List” at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church Food pantry items In the parish ATcouncil 4:00 room PM

For more information, please contact Canned meats: Spam, chili without beans, beef stew, Rebecca Kagaris salmon, sardines, clams. 314-941-4691 Canned vegetables: black beans, white beans, lima [email protected] beans, spinach, beets, asparagus, potatoes, yams, fruit, apple-sauce. Other food items: peanut butter, jelly, Ramen noodles, spaghetti noodles, spaghetti sauce, juice, vegetable oil, crackers, prepared dry cereal, high-temp milk. Friday Luncheon and Hygiene products: men’s razors, soap, body wash, deo- dorant, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, Band-Aids, Festival Baking feminine products. Not needed: Canned green beans and canned corn. We It’s time again to prepare have more of these than we can use. delicious foods and desserts for our Friday Luncheons and soon Clothing items for the Festival.

You can find a kitchen full of our dedicated bakers Men’s underwear: shorts (boxers are more popular) every Wednesday. There is a lot to be done and we and under-shirts. SML need your help. Men’s T-shirts: All sizes. Men’s jeans: All sizes. If you are interested and have some free time, please come and join the fun.

If you have any questions, please call Amalia Karakasis at 314-495-0305.

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Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) Corner The Orthodox Mission Team of St. Louis The Orthodox Mission Team of St. Louis works to nurture an awareness within our local churches of the need to evangelize, catechize, and support missionary efforts and programs globally." Hauling Water in Mugen, Kenya by Emily Robertson

Travel the World

Youth on a Mission For children in grades K - 6

Sign up to get your travelling papers and “fly” to five missionary countries/areas where the Orthodox Church is growing through the efforts of missionaries and the support of OCMC (Orthodox Christian Mission Center) See, Taste and Feel what it is like to live in Albania, Alaska, Guatemala, Kenya and Romania as an Orthodox Christian

Saturday, February 1, 2020 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. St. Nicholas Family Life Center 12550 South Forty Drive St. Louis, MO 63141

For registration and questions, please contact Simona Kacso at [email protected] Pre-registration by January 17, 2020 There is no charge but a free-will offering will be accepted Pan-Orthodox youth retreat sponsored by Mission Team St. Louis

From Acts 15:36…. “Let us go back and visit the believers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.”

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

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Assumption Greek Orthodox Church 1755 Des Peres Rd., Town & Country, MO 63131 (Just north of Des Peres 14 Cine)

December 2019 FRIDAY LUNCHEONS Menu subject to change 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Kitchen Phone: 314-966-6720 Cash, Checks and Credit Cards accepted:Master Card, VISA, Discover, American Express Web Site: http://www.assumptiongoc.org/friday-lunch Please be advised that our products may contain, or may have come in contact with, allergens, including eggs, fish, milk, peanuts shellfish, soy, tree nuts and wheat.

December 6 December 13 Mediterranean Meatloaf with Homemade Mashed Chicken Santorini over Rice Pilaf ...... $8 Potatoes and Gravy ...... $8 Baked Fish Plaki with Mixed Vegetables ...... $8 Baked Fish Plaki with Mixed Vegetables...... $8 Pastitsio (ground beef, macaroni casserole) ...... $7 Pastitsio (ground beef, macaroni casserole) ...... $7 Gyro Sandwich ...... $5 Gyro Sandwich ...... $5 (seasoned beef and lamb served on pita bread with (seasoned beef and lamb served on pita bread with tomatoes, onions and tzatziki sauce) tomatoes, onions and tzatziki sauce)

Chicken Avgolemono……...... ………….Sm. $3....Lg. $5 Butternut Squash Soup…….…..………….Sm. $3....Lg. $5 2 Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves)……..………2 for $3 Spanakopita (spinach pita) ...... $3 2 Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves)………..………2 for $3 Tyropita (cheese pita) ...... $3 Spanakopita (spinach pita) ...... $3 Greek Salad with olive oil dressing ...... $5 Tyropita (cheese pita) ...... $3

Greek Salad with olive oil dressing ...... $5 Dessert ...... $3 (Baklava, Galatobouriko, Kataifi, Walnut Cake, Dessert ...... $3 Cheesecake) (Baklava, Galatobouriko, Kataifi, Walnut Cake, Cheesecake)

December 20

Roasted Leg of Lamb with Greek Potatoes...... $10 NO Baked Fish Plaki with Mixed Vegetables ...... $8 LUNCHEON Pastitsio (ground beef, macaroni casserole) ...... $7 Gyro Sandwich ...... $5 (seasoned beef and lamb served on pita bread with December 27 or tomatoes, onions and tzatziki sauce) January 3

Lobster Bisque…………………………..Sm. $4....Lg. $6 Have a Merry Christmas

2 Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves)……..………2 for $3 and a Spanakopita (spinach pita) ...... $3 Tyropita (cheese pita) ...... $3 Happy New Year! Greek Salad with olive oil dressing ...... $5

Dessert ...... $3 Luncheons will resume on (Baklava, Galatobouriko, Kataifi, Walnut Cake, January 10, 2020 Cheesecake)

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Sat

Teachers and Youth and Teachers Advisors Jr.GOYA and

Road Sunday School Sunday Road

7 28 Vespers Great pm 5:00 Vespers Great pm 5:00

14 21

10:00 am Y2AM on the on amY2AM 10:00 Vespers Great pm 5:00 GOYA Y2AM pm 6:00 Vespers Great pm 5:00

Fri

Martyr Stephen Martyr

-

First

Nicholas the the Nicholas

St. Nicholas Church & Church Nicholas St.

Brunch Reception Brunch

YAL Meeting YAL Party

6 13 27 Wonderworker at Liturgy amDivine 10:00 Luncheon amFriday 11:00 Luncheon amFriday 11:00 Road the on Y2AM pm 6:00 Orthros am 9:00 Liturgy amDivine 10:00 Luncheon Friday No Christmas GOYA pm 6:00

20 Luncheon amFriday 11:00

Feast Days are Boxed are FeastDays

Fast Days are Shaded are FastDays

Thu

Divine Liturgy Times are Approximate are Times Liturgy Divine

Spyridon the the Spyridon

Synaxis of the of the Synaxis

Savvas the Sanctified the Savvas

St. Nicholas Church Nicholas St. at Thomas St. Liturgy

Reception at at Reception Church

5 12 26 & Vespers Great pm 6:30 Wonderworker Orthros am 9:00 Liturgy amDivine 10:00 Theotokos Divine & Orthros am 9:00

19 9:00 am Orthros am 9:00 Liturgy amDivine 10:00

Wed

Nativity of Christ Nativity

Great Martyr Martyr Great

and Coffee Hour Coffee and

4 4 25

Barbara Orthros am 9:00 Liturgy amDivine 10:00 Kafenio pm 2:00 Orthros am 9:00 Liturgy amDivine 10:00

11 18

Kafenio pm 2:00 Kafenio pm 2:00

December 2019 December

Tue

St. Eugenia St.

Typica Liturgy Divine and Reception and

Party

24 24 9:00 am Great Hours & Hours Great am 9:00 Vespers Great pm 6:00 School Greek No Study Bible No

3 10 17 31

6:00 pm Greek School Greek pm 6:00 Vespers pm 6:30 Study Bible pm 7:20 School Greek pm 6:00 Vespers pm 6:30 Study Bible pm 7:20 School Greek pm 6:00 Vespers pm 6:30 Study Bible pm 7:20 Vespers Great pm 7:00 Eve Year’s New pm 8:00

Assumption Greek Orthodox Church Orthodox Greek Assumption

Mon

2 9 16 23 30

Sun

St Eleftherios St

Holy Forefathers Holy

Genealogy of Christ Genealogy

Sunday School Sunday School Sunday School Sunday Elections School Sunday and Social Pageant School Sunday No

Christmas Party Christmas

1 1 8 15 22 29 8:30 am Orthros am 8:30 & Liturgy Divine am 9:45 Philoptochos pm 12:30 Orthros am 8:30 & Liturgy Divine am 9:45 Orthros am 8:30 & Liturgy Divine am 9:45 Council Parish pm 12:00 Orthros am 8:30 & Liturgy Divine am 9:45 Christmas pm 12:00 Orthros am 8:30 Liturgy Divine am 9:45

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Assumption Greek Orthodox Church 1755 Des Peres Road NONPROFIT ORG Town and Country, MO 63131-1405 U.S. Postage PAID St. Louis, MO Permit No. 4628 Address Service Requested

From the Orthodox Study Bible Isaiah 11: 1-5

11 There shall come forth a rod from rot of Jesse, and a flower shall grow out of his root. 2The Spirit of the God shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and godliness. 3The Spirit of the fear of the God shall not judge by reputation nor convict by common talk. 4 But He will Judge with the cause of the humble, and the humble of the earth. He shall strike the earth with the word of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips shall He slay the slay the ungodly.5 He shall gird His loins with righteousness and cover his sides with the truth.

11:2-5 At the Baptism of Christ, the Holy Spirit...shall rest upon Him (see Mt 3:16). The righteous and faithful Messiah will judge people by what is in their hearts; His teachings shall strike the truth; and His breath -a metaphor for the Holy Spirt-will destroy the ungodly.

For Consideration

In this life, man is given a choice: either the earthly kingdom or the Kingdom of Heaven. God imposes no pressure on this choice, but each one freely decides. When the brothers Marcus and Marcellinus were condemned to death, the pagan judge allowed them a month to contemplate either renouncing Christ and His Kingdom or being put to death. Then their kinsmen came to the prison with one kind of advice, and St. Sebastian with another. The kinsmen wept and implored them to do as the judge willed and to spare their youth. Their tearful father showed them his gray hairs and his infirmity; their mother swore by the food of her breasts by which she nourished them; their children wept around them. In essence, all of them proposed that they should renounce the Heavenly Kingdom for the sake of the earthly kingdom, but St. Sebastian counseled them to the contrary, saying: "O courageous soldiers of Christ, do you want to lose the eternal wreath for the sake of the flattery of your kinsmen? Do you want to relinquish the victorious banner for the sake of women's tears? This life is transient; it is so unstable and unfaithful that it can never save even those who love it. What is this life worth even if one lives for a hundred years? When the last day arrives, do not all our past years and all earthly delights seem as though they had never existed? It is indeed unreasonable to fear to lose this quickly passing life, when one will receive that eternal life in which delights, riches and rejoicing begin and never end, remaining eternal to the ages of ages. Remember the Lord's words: A man's foes shall be they of his own household." With these and many other words, St. Sebastian prevailed. The holy martyrs loved the Kingdom of Heaven more than the earthly kingdom, and they joyfully went to their deaths for Christ. http://westserbdio.org/en/prologue/727-december-18

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