The Epistle of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church APRIL 22909 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, Ohio 2016 Pastoral Thoughts by Fr. Jim Doukas On Holy Friday afternoon, we witness one of the most symbolic sacred services of the Orthodox Church – the Un-Nailing service. It speaks for itself through the large Crucifix, the embroidered Epitaphios (Holy Tapestry) with Christ lying in His Grave decorated with flowers on the Kouvouklion. Traditionally, this th is the service attended by children and their parents, because it April 24 is so simple, colorful, educational, and most of all, extremely 8:30 a.m. Orthros~9:30 a.m. Hierarchal Divine impressive to the eyes who see Jesus’ death and burial in such a vivid way. But all are encouraged to attend. Liturgy with His Eminence Metropolitan Savas When we take His most precious Body from the Cross that remained all night in Church, and take off the nails from His Traditional Plaki Luncheon to follow in the hands and feet, we wrap it in a white linen sheet- just like those Metallinos Cultural Hall emotional moments of a man named Joseph, who placed it into $15.00 For Baked Fish plate the Tomb. This is done when the priest reads a long Gospel with $8.00 For Pasta Marinara plate 61 Bible verses: “Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself looking for the kingdom of Salad ~ Rolls ~ Soft Drinks ~ Coffee God, took courage and went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Sponsored by the Youth Choir Jesus. And Pilate wondered if He were already dead; and Delicious Easter Tsoureki bread will also be on sale summoning the centurion, he asked him whether He was in the west lobby, outside the hall. already dead. And when he learned from the centurion that He Sponsored by the Liturgical Choir was dead, he granted the body to Joseph. And he bought a linen shroud and taking Him down, wrapped Him in the linen shroud, For tickets, call Diane Matzorkis (440-463-3068) and laid Him in a tomb which had been hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a stone against the door of the tomb.” (Matthew 27:55-61) With sorrow in our hearts, we witness the funeral procession of His sacred Body. The priests carry the special embroidered Epitaphio tapestry over their heads and go slowly around the church interior, while the congregation kneels. Finally, it is placed in the Kouvouklion, the large flowery wooden grave in front of the Holy Altar, along with a Gospel. Through the Paschal Agape Service centuries, the Eastern Orthodox church used Byzantine art and ststst its mystical dynamics in presenting to the faithful a most Easter Sunday, May 1 decorative, expensive, and attractive “Tapestry” with the “icon” that depicts Him dead, surrounded by His Beloved Mother, the 11:00 a.m. Disciples and Joseph, the “nobleman from Arimathea.” Those who know a language other than English or The last spiritual enjoyment of this great Holy Friday Greek, and would like to read the Gospel at the service, afternoon comes when the faithful approach the Epitaphio at the please contact the office to sign up. end. As Christians, we pay tribute to Christ (who died for US!) by kissing the Epitaphio and by “burying ourselves with Him.” The annual JOY Easter Egg Hunt will take place How? By passing under His Grave and burying out sins there! immediately following the service (weather permitting) Scholars indicate that this is a very old custom. on the church grounds. As we witness this beautiful service, let us remind ourselves of our commitment to our Lord and Savior who committed His life For other Holy Week church service times, see to us! Have a blessed Easter. Καλό Πασχά ! the calendar on page 17. The Epistle is the official publication of the Greek Orthodox Community of St. Demetrios Church Organizations’ Contacts Phone: (440) 331-2246 Acolyte Coordinator …………..…Tom Hlepas…216-269-3265 Fax: (440) 331-8407 AHEPA …………………………...Costa Petros…440-937-8079 www.saintdemetriosrr.org Bible Study :……...………Evangeline Richards…216-221-3003 Sunday Services: Orthros 8:30 a.m.; Divine Liturgy 9:30 a.m. Bookstore ……….....……...…….Donna Vassos…440-331-5547 Choir Director/Canto r…..…....Bill Matzorkis…..216-496-4230 Editor : Eleni Papouras-Jenks Youth Choir …….…..Diane Matzorkis…440-463-3068 Publication Deadlines : Weekly Bulletin – Wednesday Daughters of Penelope …..………Elisa Demis…440-665-1348 Monthly Epistle – The 15 th of the preceding month Greek School Principal Eleni Papouras-Jenks...216-965-8131 Clergy and Office Staff Board of Education Maria Mougianis…….440-835-2888 Fr. James Doukas, Priest………………(Home) 440-899-3257 PTO Kiki Poulopoulos …………………..440-979-9293 Fr. Anastasios Athanasiou, Assistant Priest……..412-758-1068 GOYA Advisors Athena Diamantis………………216-469-8607 [email protected] Dan Packis……………………..440-937-9531 Eleni Papouras-Jenks, Office Mgr [email protected] Sophia Tjotjos…...……….…….440-331-4000 Nick Hillman, Operations Mgr [email protected] President Matthew Szekely……………….440-835-5712 John Stamatiades, Church Accountant…440-331-2246, ext. 4 Hellenic Dancers Dale Stalnaker, Webmaster …………[email protected] Aeraki Beginners Group…….. Maria Coutris…412-915-7838 For a seasonal prayer, call the church and choose extension 7 Kymata Jr. Group ….……...Angelia Szekely…440-724-3807 Parish Council Kyklonas ………………. Eleni Papouras-Jenks…216-965-8131 James Diamond, President…..……………….…440-725-9636 Κόλλυβα (Memorial Tray)…...…Ann Carpadis…440-871-8625 Byron T. Spooner, Vice President…...... ……….440-724-1923 Becky Giallourakis…440-610-3516 Steve Alex, Treasurer……………………………440-823-9595 Maria Statheros…216-226-1680 Randy Carpenter, Financial Secretary…..………440-878-0036 Library Committee :…………..…...Andie Titas...440-779-8581 Eugenia Burpulis, Secretary…...………………...440-356-1746 Philoptochos ……………………[email protected] Nicholas Giallourakis…………………………....440-773-9931 President ………Stephanie Zavatchen….440-385-7448 Andreas Koustis…...…………………………….216-513-8905 Sunshine Committee ….Elpida Kosmidis…440-779-8959 Nikolaos Petousis ………………………....…….440-570-7889 Sunday School ….…………... [email protected] Anthony Trakas……...…………………………..440-385-7741 Principal Maggie Steffas…….440-871-6362 ______Assistant Principal Cindy Genin……440-610-7686 Endowment Fund ……………Manuel Steffas…440-871-6362 Spiritual Life Committee ...Angie Giallourakis…440-871-2681 Trust Fund ……………...... John Stamatis…440-937-6258 Yassou Club …...…………....Mary Pappadakes…440-799-4821
ORTHODOX ORGANIZATIONS IOCC www.iocc.org Pascalis Papouras : [email protected] St. Herman’s House of Hospitality FOCUS Cleveland www.sainthermans.com OCF (Orthodox Christian Fellowship of BWU, CWRU, CSU, JCU, Tri-C)……… Mira Damljanovic: m [email protected] St. Panteleimon Orthodox Christian Outreach www.stpanteleimon.com OCMC (Orthodox Christian Mission Center) www.ocmc.org Zoe for Life ! www.zoeforlifeonline.org Pan-Orthodox Young Adult Fellowship ……Maria Koulioufas 440-525-1187 For local Orthodox events: www.orthodoxcleveland.us Speaking of Stewardship… 3 Greek Festival : June 1616----19,19, 2016
FESTIVAL Thanks to everyone who helped roll Dolmades and Souzoukakia last month! This month, we will work COOKING on 2 of the most labor-intensive dishes- PLEASE April 4-5 Pastitsio join us starting at 9 a.m.! Photos: April 11-12 Moussaka Nick May 10*-11 Spanakopites Hillman May 16*-17 Tiropites May 23 Galaktoboureko May 30 Green beans June 1 Koulourakia June 6-7 Lamb Shanks June 13 Sauces June 14 Chicken June 15 Tourlou and Rice pudding * Denotes an evening session
Thanks to a generous Statement of Activity Current Current Month Month memorial donation of $5,000 (February 2016) Actual Budget YTD Actual YTD Budget from the Stella and Georgia Income Metrakos Family Trust, the Pledges Totals: 34,698.00 32,055.56 83,598.37 65,111.12 balance on the dome icon of Offerings Totals: 5,309.51 5,216.67 9,131.62 10,433.30
St. Bartholomew has been Education Offerings Totals: 1,560.00 1,000.00 4,677.50 2,000.00 paid off! The Dome Other Church Donations Totals: 6,395.00 1,500.00 8,313.00 3,000.00
Iconography update began in Fund Raiser Revenue Totals: 45.00 316.67 602.00 633.30 2003, when many of the Rental Revenue Totals: 2,484.00 6,125.00 2,985.60 12,250.00 icons were sponsored by individuals and church Other Revenue Totals: 5,452.10 2,266.67 6,423.13 4,533.30 ministries. A loan was taken Income Totals: 55,943.61 48,480.57 115,731.22 97,961.02 out to complete the dome Expense (along with several other Gross Wages Totals: 15,062.76 15,725.02 30,306.25 31,449.96 capital improvements,) and Pastor Benefits Totals: 17,387.62 14,066.66 31,878.88 28,133.40 since then, several memorial Other Payroll Expenses Totals: 5,174.11 4,530.56 12,602.53 9,061.12 donations toward the icons have helped pay down the Assistant Pastor Benefits Totals: 8,341.48 8,516.67 16,746.87 17,033.30 loan principal. With this Education Expenses Totals: 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 recent donation, only one Fund Raiser Expenses Totals: 0.00 1,041.67 0.00 1,083.30 icon remains unsponsored: Parish Organizations Totals: 543.27 283.34 634.82 566.60 St. James Alpheus. Anyone Mission and Outreach Totals: 1,450.00 779.17 1,450.00 1,558.30 wishing to donate toward Arch/Diocean Expenses Totals: 14,757.15 7,741.67 22,375.75 15,483.30 paying off this final mosaic Church Expenses Totals: 540.31 1,375.00 1,968.26 2,750.00 can contact Fr. Jim. Office Expense Totals: 3,861.15 2,419.46 5,536.92 4,838.80
Main Complex Exp Totals: 20,097.86 15,058.33 30,090.98 30,116.70 See this month’s feature article about the Apostle Expense Totals: 87,215.71 71,537.55 153,591.26 142,074.78 mosaics, on pages 10-11. Income - Expense: (31,272.10) (23,056.98) (37,860.04) (44,113.76) 4 Parish News Those That Have Put On Christ CHURCH FLOWERS Those that wish to donate the flowers for any of the Kaliopi Nunney , daughter of Daniel & Andrea, was baptized following, please contact the church office: on March 19, 2016. Her nono is Alex Venizelos. Palm Sunday Bridegroom icon Asleep In The Lord Holy Thursday Crucifixion icon The Epitaphio We extend our condolences to Renee Stamatis on the loss of her Easter lilies for the solea & altar father Steve Saviolas, and to John Rokas on the loss of his father Also, if you are available to help decorate the Epitaphio on James, and Natalia Costaras on the loss of her mother Zoya. Holy Friday (April 29) morning, please contact Michelle Baker at 440-617-0973. Choir Notes Wed., April 13 , we will host the Lenten meal and support our ATTENTION CLASS OF 2016 choir director, who is the speaker that day. We ask all members to If you are graduating from high school, college, graduate bring a Lenten dish. Food can be dropped off at the church kitchen or post-graduate studies, please send a photo and a short anytime during that day. bio (name, school, activities, future plans) to [email protected] by May 15, to be included in the Due to Pre-sanctified Liturgies on Wednesdays during Lent choir June/July Epistle . rehearsals will be Tuesdays until Holy Week. There will be a rehearsal on Holy Friday, April 29 at 6 p.m., prior to the Epitaphio. FESTIVAL VOLUNTEER FORM In May, we will go back to Wednesday rehearsals. Vasiliki (Vi) Delaney Music Award Graduating high school All parishioners are urged to complete the form below, seniors who are interested in pursuing a degree in music, or current indicating the times and areas for which you are available college students in a music program are eligible to apply. and interested in working, and return to the church office. Applications in the church office. Deadline for submission is June NAME ______1, 2016. For more scholarship opportunities, see page 9. Library Jottings Phone ______Our library is now featuring books on Lent, Holy Week, and Easter for adults and children. You can also find stories on the Email______Virgin Mary for the weekly Friday Salutations, as well as books on fasting. Titles include: The Execution of Jesus, He Chose the I would like to assist in the following area(s): Nails, No Wonder They Call Him Savior, The Angels Were Silent, ___ Food Line (Servers) ___ Food Line (Runners) and The Final Week of Jesus . We also have the DVD the Passion ___Kitchen ___ Salads of Christ. ___Taverna ___Souvlakia/Gyro booth EGG DYING Thursday, April 28 , we need volunteers to help ___Coffee ___Pastries dye the red eggs for Anastasi in the kitchen at 9 a.m. and also to tie them into the tulle bags, starting at 11 a.m. Lunch will be provided. ___ Inside bar ___Outside bars Call Toula Pyros (440-333-5560) for more info. ___Kids Games ___Setup of Booths GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING ___Drive Thru order taker ___Drive thru order filler SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2016 at Noon ___ Dance costumes ___Church tours A Quorum Of At Least 25 Members In Good Standing Are Throughout the weekend we need more than 200 Required For This Meeting. If Quorum is not met, the meeting volunteers. If everyone can give just 2 4-hour shifts, it WILL take place on Mon., April 18, at 7 p.m. with or without would a great help to the church. I am available the quorum, per the by-laws. following days /times: AGENDA: I. Stewardship Report Thu. Jun. 16 ___11 a.m.-3 p.m. ___3-7 pm __7-10 p.m. II. Church Renovation Project Fri., June 17 ___11 am-3 pm ___3-7 pm ___7-11 p.m. III. Festival Report Sat., June 18 ___11 am-3 pm ___3-7 p.m. __7-11 p.m. Eligibility: Members of the parish who have met their financial obligations to the Parish, in accordance with the Parish By-laws. A person Sun., June 19 ___11 am-3 pm ___3-7 pm ___7-10 p.m. whose name appears on the membership roll, but who is in arrears in payment of their stewardship obligations may take part in the Parish If you need to contact anyone for more info pertaining to Assembly by meeting such obligations by the meeting day. New volunteer work, please call 440-331-2246 ext. 3. members may exercise their vote at Parish Assemblies if they have been members in good standing for at least (3) months.” Any amount of time offered would be appreciated! 5
presents The 2016 Lenten Lecture Series: Respect In today's world, rudeness and roughness are often seen, at best, as “The Norm” and, at worst, something to be jokingly glorified in sitcoms, viral videos, social media, and elsewhere. This chronic disrespect on our society and its impact on our daily lives can be stressful for those who try to achieve prayerful spirituality. This Lenten season, we will hear about different ways to regain and express respect in our lives. Date Topic Speaker Meal Host April 6 Respect for Human Life Cindy George GOYA April 13 Respect for Worship: Orthros, Bill Matzorkis, Cantor/ Choir Choir the Forgotten Service Director of St. Demetrios Church April 20 Respect for our Fellow Man: Andrea Giavroutas, Bible Study Mission Work OCF/IOCC missionary Join us on select Wednesdays during Lent for Pre-Sanctified Liturgy at 6:00 p.m., followed by a Lenten meal in the Cultural Hall around 7:00 p.m., and an edifying lecture at 8:00 p.m.
The 2016 Lenten Lecture series “RESPECT” began on March 16 with guest speaker Presvytera Christina Callos. Pres. Christina, who has a Ph.D. in Psychology, spoke on “Respect in Marriage.” She began by reading definitions of ‘respect’ from the dictionary, psychology, and the Bible. She then explored Bible passages regarding marriage, which may seem old-fashioned, versus expectations in modern society, in an often humorous way. She showed that marriage-as-a-contract can be easily broken when things go wrong, whereas marriage-as-a-sacrament is meant to invoke Christ’s sacrificial and total love for His Registration forms available in the Narthex, Church Office, and Church. our website: www.saintdemetriosrr.org
nd Our 2 speaker was Please return registration form to the Sunday School office by Paul Finley, Director Palm Sunday (April 24, 2016.) of FOCUS Cleveland Upon return of registration form, a letter of excused absence from St. Herman’s House of school will be issued. Hospitality, speaking on “Respect for our We also need some adult volunteers at the Registration booth, Poor Brothers.” Snacks, Teaching one of the Stations, General Supervision. Mr. Finley gave a very uplifting talk on what we need to “pack” on our Journey to Pascha, including humility, Holy Friday Myrhh-bearers repentance, forgiveness and charitable works. He noted Girls ages 6-11, who wish to be “myrrh bearers” in the Epitaphio that many of the homeless, addicted, and mentally ill procession on the evening of April 29 th , please contact Theresa people served by St. Herman’s don’t even have self Manos ( [email protected] or 216-696-3929) Each girl needs respect, and that they need Christ’s love, and our care and to have her own all-white dress and white basket. Flower petals respect for them to reflect their worth in God’s eyes. will be provided. 6 Jesus said, ‘Let the children come to Me’… (Matthew 9:14) Sunday School Acolytes Sun., April 3, 10, 17 – Fr. Jim will hear confessions right after Sunday School. Sat., April 9 – Oratorical Festival: Regional Round. Best wishes to Senior Date Team Division winners Antonia Hadgis & Julianna Mathiellis, and Junior Division 4/3 Captain Vlasi Pappas & Team 3 winners Sophia Loizos & Angelia Poulopoulos who will be representing our 4/10 Captain Matthew Szekely & Team 4 parish at St. Haralambos Church, Canton. 4/17 Captain Peter Stamatis & Team 1 4/24 (Palm Sunday) ALL TEAMS The Holy Week sign-up sheet has been e- mailed. Please respond to Tom Hlepas about which weeknights you can commit to. Youth Choir Sat., April 23 – Rehearsal for Holy Week Sun., April 24 – singing at the Palm Sunday Hierarchal Divine Liturgy for Metropolitan Savas; Luncheon to follow (see p. 1) Fri., April 29 – 6 p.m. Rehearsal for Oratorical Festival Local Round 1 : Fr. Jim, Alex Stamatis, Steven & Angelia Lamentations, prior to the Epitaphio. Poulopoulos, Avi Kopasakis, Antonia Hadgis, Nick Giallourakis, Alex Diamantis, Sophia Loizos, Julianna Mathiellis, Fr. Anastasios. Photo: Stacie Diamantis We are so proud that Antonia Hadgis, Kostas & Georgios Ermidis will be chanting the prayers at the Friday Salutations this month.
Hellenic Dancers Aeraki Dancers (ages 5-8 as of Jan. 1, 2016) Register by emailing Maria Coutris ([email protected] ) with child’s name and birthdate. (Even if a child will turn 9 For before the festival, they will still be in this Youth (6 th -12 th Grade) group this year. Similarly, even if your child Parents turned 5 after January 1st they cannot Youth Workers perform this year!) ~Wed., May 4, 4:30-6 p.m. – 1st rehearsal. Full list of practices will be distributed. ~Wed., May 11- registration deadline. Dancers must attend 7 of the 10 scheduled practices in order to perform at the festival.
Kymata Dancers (ages 9-12) Sundays, April 3, 17 & 24, rehearsing in the Fellowship Room, at 11:45 a.m. to prepare for the festival.
Kyklonas Dancers (ages 13 & up) Thu., April 7-21 , 6:45-7:30 p.m. – Rehearsals in the hall. (No rehearsal on Holy Thursday, 4/28.) A second weekday practice will be added (to be voted on.) Contact Eleni.
Sat., April 16 – Culture Fest performance at Lake Ridge Academy, 37501 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville, representing Greece After Liturgy Metropolis GOYA Volleyball Tournament at 2:00 p.m. Greek School 7 Thanks to Fr. Anastasios for giving the Lenten lesson at our Apokreatiko party on March 3 rd (pictured, left), to the teachers who helped prepare the “Tsiknopempti” meal, and the Ermidis family for donating the toys & prizes. Congratulations to the Level 2, 4 and 7 classes! They got to enjoy a pizza party (below) for having 100% parental participation in this year's PTO membership drive. Angie Rokas Angie Theofylaktos; Andreana Steffas; Kelly Photos:
~Sun., April 3 – PTO Loukoumades sale after church. Please come support our spring fundraiser. There will also be to-go boxes! ~Tue., April 12 – Teachers meeting. ~April 26-28 – No School for Holy Week Break. Classes resume 5/3
Congratulations to the teachers & students who presented such a wonderful March 25 th program (photos,clockwise) and thanks to the PTO for hosting the refreshments. 8 GOYA ~Sat., April 2 – BeeTreat Our final Cleveland (see p. 6 for schedule) basketball ~Sun., April 3- Host Metropolis tournament GOYA volleyball tournament of 2016 was ~Wed., April 6 –Host the Lenten in Lecture meal (see p. 5) ALL Pittsburgh families should bring a Lenten on Feb. (meatless/no dairy) dish. The 27-28. kitchen will be open all day for Thanks to drop-offs. our ~Sun., April 10 –Meeting & chaperone/ Lenten soup sale drivers. ~Sun., April 17- Lenten soup sale Congrat- ~Fri., April 22 – Palm Folding ulations to Retreat Details to be emailed. our Senior ~Fri., April 29 –Holy Friday Retreat girls (left) (see p. 5) and Junior Girls (below) Senior Boys team and (left, graduating seniors at their final below) tournament, at which they received Photos: icons from the Metropolitan. Jean Chiviles
Calculation of Pascha by Fr. Anastasios Athansiou AD was because the Christians had been following the Around this time of year there are many questions and many Jewish calendar to calculate the Sunday after Passover and answers given on why all Christians do not celebrate the Lord’s the issue was that the Jewish calendar was based on the Resurrection on the same day. Even within our own Greek moons and the official legal calendar, the Roman/Julian Orthodox communities we seem confused on the reasons too, and calendar was based on the Sun. This meant that at some I don’t blame you because it is somewhat confusing when you get point those who had followed the Jews had actually into the minute details. So without getting into all of the details I celebrated Pascha twice within a calendar year, which wanted to provide a general understanding for what has seemed wrong. Even other traditions existed, and so the happened. I want to be very clear on this point: in 325 AD at the Church established that the calculation would be after the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea, the Fathers of that council Equinox, wait for the full moon, and the next Sunday is stated that Pascha would be celebrated on the first Sunday Pascha. Remember this was a time when there were no following the first full moon following the Vernal (Spring) computers and no calendar in every home, let alone on our Equinox. That’s it … Equinox happens, full moon happens, and phones. So to help with the process, it was determined that the following Sunday is Pascha. This calculation was based on the “Paschal Full Moon” would rotate between 19 different biblical evidence for the date. Many of you will be scratching days on the Julian Calendar, as calculated on a 19 year your head and saying, “Doesn’t it have anything to do with the rotation. Though it may seem off, Western Christianity Jews celebrating Passover?” Sadly, this is one of those Orthodox (Roman Catholics, Anglicans, Protestants, etc.) actually uses Tall Tales that somehow has become the common miscon- the same calculation from the 1st Ecumenical Council too, ception. One of the main reasons this topic was discussed in 325 because at that point in time every Christian was in the same church/denomination (no Schism yet). (continued page 13) Educational Opportunities Zapis Activity Center 9
Joan Lambros Memorial Scholarship Available to Su after D/L Volleyball Tournament April 3 women of St. Demetrios Church pursuing a college or grad Kids Open Play April 10-24 school Science degree. Applications in the church office. M/W Deadline: April 22, 2016 . 9:00 p.m. Men’s Basketball Year round AHPEA & DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE T/Th 7:30 a.m. Exercise with Sophia Year round *The Thomas A. Stamatis Cleveland Metro AHEPA Chapter #389 & Daughters Of Penelope Chapter #321 F/S Open for kids’ birthdays* 440-331-2246 Available to graduating high school seniors whose parents are members of these AHEPA or Daughters of Penelope Chapters *Families must be members in Good Standing for 2016 or members in good standing at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church of Rocky River, Ohio. Applications available in the church office or email Paul Manos Sound Boards Installed ([email protected] ) Deadline: April 30, 2016 . Many sincere thanks to Awards will be presented at St. Demetrios after Divine James Asimes, Liturgy on Sun., May 15, 2016. Winners to be notified and Alex Augoustidis, must be present to receive their scholarships Randy Carpenter, *John M. Manos Cleveland AHEPA #36 Available to Tim & Evan Chrisman, graduating high school seniors of Greek descent. Jim Diamond, Applications in the church office. Deadline: May 6, 2016 Harry & Nick Giallourakis, Manny Glynias, *National Daughters of Penelope Available at Kosta Kyriakopoulos, www.daughtersofpenelope.org Deadline: May 1, 2016 Dan Packis, *AHEPAcademy Greek American High School Juniors can Nick Petrakis, apply for a leadership and professional development program Teddy Poulos, June 26 - July 2, 2016 at George Mason University, near Spyro Romell, Washington, DC. Those with minimum 3.5/4.0 GPA, or Top Anthony Santarelli, 10% of Class during the 2015-2016 school year who Byron Spooner, exemplify leadership, character, participation in John Stamatiades, extracurricular activities, community service, and involvement Chris Steffas, in the Greek American community can apply at Floyd Trillis III, www.ahepacademy.com Deadline: April 15, 2016 Alex Unruh and Dean Nakis Memorial Scholarship Andrew Zollos Available to students who are active members of one of the who volunteered their Greek Orthodox Churches of Northeastern Ohio, or whose time to install the new parent(s) are active members, and who are entering college or sound boards in the doing undergraduate work. Recipients are selected for gymnasium. The benefit of reducing decibels was noticed scholastic achievement and financial need. Applications in the immediately at basketball practices, and will be a huge church office. Deadline: April 29, 2016 improvement to the sound quality of festival performances. Dr. Komninos Fotinos Memorial Scholarship – Nick Hillman Available to any high school senior or undergrad student in college or university whose family is an active member of St. Demetrios Church. The student needs to have at least a 3.0 GPA. Preference will be given to those pursuing a premed or health care degree. Applications available in the church office. Deadline is May 4, 2016 American Hellenic Institute Foreign Policy Study Trip to Greece & Cyprus Open to undergrad or grad who wish to better understand foreign policy issues important to the Greek American community by attending meetings with officials, as well visiting historic and other cultural sites in both Greece and Cyprus, June 15-July 1, 2016. Hotel, local transportation and most meals in Washington DC, Greece and Cyprus included. Students responsible for cost of the airfare and $500 refundable deposit. Deadline: April 15, 2016. For more info : www.ahiworld.org/for-students/policy-trip As we attend the services of Holy Week at the end of this month, we all know where the events are leading Jesus. But Jesus not as many know what happened after the Resurrection to His Apostles.
James-Iakovos Alpheaus
James-Iakovos Son of Zebedee Philip
Jude Thaddeus Peter Simon the Zealot Preached in Egypt 1st Bishop of Jerusalem
Preached in Preached in Greece, Judea, Samaria, Syria, Galilee, Idumea, Preached in Stabbed with a Armenia Crucified by Syria, Arabia, Syria, Egypt, sword by Preached in Egyptian pagans Mesopotamia, Africa, Spain, Herbrew leaders northern Armenia Rome 44 AD Africa, Britain, Crucified in Black Sea Armenia, 71 AD
Crucified Crucified and Crucified shot with by Roman arrows authorities, 67 AD
The relics of Sts. The relics of St. Iakovos Jude, Peter, and (James) are in the Simon are at St. Cathedral of Santiago Peter’s Basilica Compostela, Spain within the Vatican (Rome, Italy)
Dome Photos: Eleni Papouras-Jenks; The relics of both Sts. James and Philip are in Church photos: the Church of the Dodici (Holy Apostles) in Google images Rome, Italy Christ Next time you gaze up into our dome at the Apostle mosaics, take a moment to recall how they lived their mission to “Make disciples of all nations,” (Also read Acts and the Epistles ) how most of them gave their lives as witnesses (martyrs) for Christ, and where their Holy Relics can be found today.
Paul (note: He replaces the Bartholomew traitor Judas (Nathanael) as the 12 th Matthew Apostle) Andrew John Thomas Preached in Preached in Asia Cared for the Panagia Preached to the Asia Minor, Minor, Black Preached in Preached until her death, authored Parthians, Medes, Syria, India Sea, Kiev Athens, in India one of the Holy Gospels, and Ethiopians (Ukraine), 3 Epistles & Book of Thessaloniki, Peloponnese Revelation Corinth, Berea, Thrace, Asia Run through Beheaded, Minor, Syria, with spears by 90 AD Rome order of Indian Crucified on an Reposed in peace Executed with king “X” shaped cross on the island of a sword, by an in Patras by Patmos, African king circa 100 AD pagans Beheaded in Rome by pagans, 67 AD
In Byzantine times, his relics were in The Cathedral of St. Thomas Syria, then in Lipari, Italy, and in Mylapore, India, was built Ruins of the Basilica of St. John eventually moved to over his relics. in Ephesus, Turkey, are all that’s St. Bartholomew Church, Rome Italy left of his original burial site.
His relics are at St Andrew Church, Patras, Greece; smaller relics also St Matthews Cathedral in Salerno, St. Paul Church found in Italy, Scotland & Poland Italy is built over his tomb Rome, Italy 12 Focus on Philoptochos
The annual Metropolis of Pittsburgh Philoptochos Daffodil Luncheon was co-hosted this year by the four Cleveland Philoptochos chapters at the historic Silver Grille ( pictured, above .) Members and guests from Ohio and Pennsylvania were joined by His Eminence Metropolitan Savas and Miss America 2016 Betty (Vasiliki) Cantrell, ( pictured, above left ) who is also a member of Philoptochos. The well-attended fundraiser benefitted several charities. ( pictured, right ) Dr. Marjorie Moyar and Dr. Vincent Touhy receiving a donation of $5,000 for the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Project; ( below ) Paula Kappos and members of the ZOE for Life! Committee receiving a $5,000 grant. ( left) Guests then had the opportunity to meet and be photographed with Miss America.
Photos: Clementine Photography
St. Demetrios Philoptochos Mother’s Day Celebration Honor your mother, grandmother, godmother, sister, aunt or even a special friend with a gift to Philoptochos. Your donation of $5/name will enable us to continue our work of charitable giving to individuals and families in need, area food banks, shelters for the homeless, and countless research efforts in the battle against cancer and other catastrophic diseases. On Mother’s Day, Sunday May 8th, a printed program will be distributed in Church honoring all individuals remembered by loved ones both living and deceased. A special memorial service honoring the beloved Mothers of our community will take place.
Enclosed is my gift of $______Please Print: Your Name______Phone ______Email______In Honor of: Names of Honoree(s)______Everything Philoptochos does is to be good ‘friends of ______the poor.’ (above) Members Ann Frangos, Stephanie In Loving Memory: Zavatchen, Becky Giallourakis, Tammy Asimakis, and Names of Deceased ______Joanne Harutoonian served dinner at St Herman’s on st ______March 1 . Photo: Ann Frangos ______Please join us at our General Meeting on Mon., April Due to printing deadlines all names must be received by May 4 th . 11 at 7 p.m. in the Board Room to learn more about Any additional names can be attached on another sheet of paper. how you can get involved! Be sure to acknowledge “living “ or “deceased.” Anyone interested in having a home visit from one of Please enclose your donation for each name and make one check our friendly Philoptochos ladies, or if you know of payable to: St. Demetrios Philoptochos Society, someone who would appreciate occasional visits, please 22909 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, Ohio 44116 notify Irene Steffas (440-899-7652.) In Our Metropolis 13 The Center for Family Care of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese invites parents/caregivers, clergy, ministry leaders, and special education professionals to participate in an important Focus Group Addressing The Needs Of Families Of Children With Special Needs In The Greek Orthodox Church Thursday, March 31 st St. Demetrios Church’s Board Room • Participant Dinner: 6:15 pm - 7:15 pm • Focus Group: 7:30 pm (promptly) – 9:00 pm Please contact Angie Giallourakis, Ph.D., and member of the Center for Family Care ministry team at 216-387-2681 or email at [email protected]
We are gathering information from people like you on the issues and needs of families and their children with special needs in the Greek Orthodox Church. We respect how valuable your time is, but would deeply appreciate hearing your insights and concerns. Our ultimate goal is find the best ways to address the issues of the Church and families of children with special needs. As a participant, you will be invited to introduce yourself and briefly describe your relationship to the subject of Families of Children with Special Needs. Following the Since 2014, the Metropolis of Pittsburgh has introductions, the group will be asked a series of questions been annually honoring two active volunteers and then given the opportunity to respond (as you feel from each of the 54 parishes. comfortable). Group discussion will be permitted, however, We are proud to announce that time will restrict any lengthy discourse between St. Demetrios Church’s 2016 participants. Honoree Is The Focus Group will be audio recorded in order to Mary PappadakesPappadakes. transcribe the discussion, review the contents and then determine the commonalities addressed by the participants. At the conclusion of the research project all the data will be compiled and shared with the parishes and faithful of CONTACT: Mary Doreza (412-877-3415) Archdiocese along with recommendations for addressing this topic. Make Checks Payable To: At no time will your identity be revealed in any reports to Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Pittsburgh the Archdiocese or the public. Your privacy will be respected at all times . Mail ToToTo:To Peter Clyde Papadakos St. Photios Banquet Reservatons 109 Lindbert Dr. (Pascha dates, continued from p. 8) McKeesport, Pa 15132 The major difference occurred after 1582 AD, when the Gregorian calendar was adopted (named after Pope Gregory Net Proceeds to Benefit the XIII, who decreed it into existence). It was observed by Metropolitan’s Benevolence Fund those looking that it doesn’t take 365.25 days to orbit the Sun, but rather it takes closer to 365.2425 days. This may seem insignificant, but over thousands of years that 0.0075 difference, it led to 13 days in which things were off. And most prominently, we notice this 13 day difference every Since 1923, we Greek Orthodox Christians follow the year when Christmas is celebrated, where we are on December Revised Julian Calendar (essentially the Gregorian calendar 25th and our Slavic friends celebrate on January 7th. So in with the Julian calendar for Pascha and related feasts: 1923 the Orthodox had a choice, and ultimately it made the beginning of Triodion, Lent, Ascension, Pentecost, etc.), decision that the Orthodox Church was to continue to celebrate where our Slavic Orthodox brethren use the Gregorian our most important feast, the Lord’s Pascha, together as One, calendar. Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. 14 AROUND TOWN New Home for ‘Zoe House’ PARMA - On March 4th , the new location of Zoe House at 5454 State Road, was blessed by five bishops, including our own Metropolitan Savas (above, center.) His Eminence was joined by Their Graces Archbishop Nathanial, Bishops Daniel, Gregory, and Paul. Both our priests and presvyteres (below, center) were also in attendance, along with many Orthodox faithful from around Cleveland. The new HQ allows Zoe for Life to expand its ministry to women in crisis pregnancies with a clinic while continuing with adoption services. Mothers in need who have chosen to keep their babies can receive donated gently-used clothing, toys, and other supplies (below).
For more on Zoe for Life go to www.zoeforlifeonline.org Photos courtesy of Fr. Costa Keares
Friday, April 1 st (No Joke!) Following Salutations, which begin at 7 p.m. all Orthodox young adults (ages 18-35) are invited to Rue 254 Restaurant, 32045 Detroit Rd, Avon
Meet the popular "Be the Bee" video creator and Archdiocese Youth & Young Adult Ministries Director Steve Christoforou, Call St Paul Church office (440) 237-8998 speaker and discussion leader.
RSVP to Fr. Anastasios: [email protected] 15 Clevelanders Celebrate 16 th Annual Greek Independence Day Parade
Cleveland’s 16 th annual Greek Independence Day parade took place on March 19 th in Tremont and St. Demetrios parishioners again were among many of the groups that marched. (above ) Fr. Anastasios with Greek School students Athan Tsigas, Nicholas & James Steffas, Ben Kramp, John Papandreas, Marika Fourtounis and Simon Kramp; (right, top to bottom ) Polly & Teddy Poulos and friend represented Ikaria; The Manos, Kopasakis and other St. Demetrios families marched for Crete; the Ermidis family marched with the Phoenix Pontian Society; at the post- parade program our Greek School Level 3 teacher Irene Dimarhos and her student Anastasios Ermidis beautifully singing “Ta Klephtopoula.” Irene also sang a solo, a capella rendition of the very moving folk song “Tzivaeri,” which she also performed after the Greek School program the following day.
40 th CIFF Includes Two Greek Films
CLEVELAND - The 40 th annual Cleveland International Film Festival, which will screen hundreds of U.S. and foreign, short and feature-length films through April 10, will include the work of filmmakers Athina Rachel Tsangari and Yannis Christoforou. Tsagari’s Chevelier is the only Greek feature-length film,
at 99 minutes long. It is the Athenian filmmaker’s third Manos; Therese ErmidisMarina Papouras-Jenks; Eleni Photos: movie. Set on a yacht in the Aegean Sea, six male friends participate in “machismo Olympics” to determine which of them is best overall in categories such as fishing prowess, clothing choices, etc. It is a comedy about rivalry and hubris, starring Yoryos Kendros, Panos Koronis, and Sakis Rouvas. It is presented in Greek, with English subtitles, on Mon., April 4 at the Cleveland Institute of Art Cinemateque, 11610 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, and on Wed., April 6 at 5:15 p.m., downtown at Tower City Cinemas. Christoforou’s short, 12-minute film, Painting the Stars, looks at the life of a renowned artist who continues to paint movie posters for theater facades in Greece. It will be shown as part of the 90-minute “Shorts Program 11” on Wed., April 6 at 9:20 a.m. and Thu., April 7 at 5 p.m. at Tower City Cinemas. For more information on ordering tickets, parking, etc., go to www.clevelandfilm.org Foreign films are not subject to the U.S. rating system, so it is best to assume they are intended for mature audiences. 1216 ON THE BULLETIN BOARD
Join the Be The Match Registry . Patients need you! For thousands with blood cancers like leukemia or other diseases like sickle cell anemia, a marrow transplant is their only hope for life. If you have diverse ancestry, patients especially need you because they are most likely to match someone who shares their heritage.
Come to St. Demetrios Church’s Fellowship Room Sunday, April 17, during coffee hour to be tested. Paperwork & a cheek swab could save a life!
Saturday, April 16
11 a.m.-4:00 p.m . Lake Ridge Academy Bettcher Convocation Center 37501 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville Informational Booths, Food, Ethnic Music & Dances St. Demetrios’ Kyklonas Hellenic Dancers will represent Greece with folk dances at 2:00 p.m.
SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS To place your ad in this section, contact the office: 440-331-2246 x2 or [email protected]
The Catacomb Bookstore During Lent, stop by for spiritually uplifting Orthodox Christian Classic readings like The Lenten Spring and Journey through Great Lent . Also available, the excellent parenting books Growing Faithful Families in Chris t and The Acetic Lives of Mothers: A Prayer Book for Orthodox Moms . We also have several copies of the Holy Week Books for $25. When you purchase from our bookstore you are supporting an important ministry of the Church. Greek Orthodox Community of St. Demetrios 22909 Center Ridge Road Rocky River Ohio 44116
Built in Faith, Sustained by Love
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