The Orthodox Way

St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church Lexington, MA

Communiqué of the Primates of the Orthodox Churches By the grace of God, the proceedings of the Synaxis of the Primates of the Orthodox Autocephalous Churches concluded today, on the Sunday of Orthodoxy. The Synaxis took place at the Phanar from 6-9 March, 2014, at the invitation and under the presidency of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, and was attended by all the most venerable Primates in person, with the exception of His Beatitude Patriarch John of Antioch, who, due to illness, was represented by Hierarchs of his Church.

The proceedings of the Synaxis were carried out in a very fraternal spirit; the Hierarchs discussed maters concerning the life of the Orthodox Church in the contemporary Contents world, and particularly in regions where Orthodoxy and Christianity in general face serious problems and difficulties; the Hierarchs also expressed their support and Messages ………………2-3 profound interest of the Orthodox Church in its entirety concerning their fellow human Orthodoxy in News…...5 beings suffering in those regions. Above all, the Synaxis considered the prevailing Father’s Message……...6 situation in the Middle East and recent developments in Ukraine, as well as the ongoing uncertainty about the fate of the bishops, Metropolitan John of Aleppo, and Yuhanna Great Holy Week……7-8 Ibrahim of the Syriac Church, who were kidnapped by unknown persons a very long Stewardship……………..9 time ago. Youth Ministries……..10 In the framework of their Synaxis, the Primates also deliberated on the matter of the Holy and Great Synod of the Orthodox Church and decided that, upon expediting the Adult Ministries ……..11 process of preparation, it will be convened and presided by the Ecumenical Patriarch in PC President Ltr………12 Constantinople in 2016. 50th Ann. Info…….…..13 With regard to this matter, the Primates also determined issues related to representation and participation of the Orthodox Autocephalous Churches in this Celebrations & Synod, as well as the manner of decision-making at the Synod. Announcements……….14 On Sunday morning, 9th March, the feast of Orthodoxy, the Primates concelebrated in Approaching Pascha..15 the Patriarchal Church of St. George at the Phanar, where their Message to the Vespers of Love……….16 Orthodox faithful throughout the world, their Christian brothers and sisters everywhere, and all people of goodwill, was read officially from the pulpit. Greek Ind. Parade…..17 At the Phanar, March 9, 2014 Message From Primates…………….18-19 From the Chief Secretariat IOCC…………………..…20 of the Holy and Sacred Patriots Day & Driving Synod Concerns…………...21, 24 Calendar………………..22 Holy Friday Retreat..23 Messages

hurch Contact Information St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church 17 Meriam St. Lexington, MA 02420 Some members of our parish family were given parking tickets for attending services www.stnicholaslex.org and parking prior to 10am on Meriam St. Please know that we are in communication with the Lexington Police Department. If you could be of some Sunday Worship Service Orthros: 8:15 a.m. assistance please contact Fr. Demetri. Divine Liturgy: 9:30 a.m.

Main Office Secretary: Mary Correia Phone: (781) 862-6453 Email: [email protected] Hours: Mon – Thurs 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.* If you have not been receiving church material/mailing or e-mails, please contact the Presiding Priest church office at 781-862-6453 or email [email protected]. Thank you. Rev. Fr. Demetrios Costarakis Phone (office): (781) 862-0315 Phone (home): (978) 275-0002 Phone (emergency): (978) 201-0636 Email: [email protected]

*Days and times may vary due to Liturgical or other schedules* Unfortunately House Blessings were not able to take place during Lent. T You will be informed a few days Parish Council prior by a phone message when Father will be in your area. Thomas Tsaros, President [email protected] Make a list of the first names of those family members you wish to pray for when the priest arrives. The Lela Digenis, Vice President names should be for the living. [email protected] On your dining room table or family altar, place a lighted candle, a Theophany icon or an Icon of Christ and a bowl with water. Judy Gray, Secretary Please secure any animals that may be in the home, so they are not frightened as the priest goes from [email protected] room to room. Marcy Norse, Treasurer [email protected] We are happy to announce that Adult Catechism & Bible Tony Gray, Stewardship Chair Study will be once again active at our parish as soon as [email protected] House Blessings are complete. A questionnaire through Survey Monkey has been set up and we encourage your Lou Saledas, Finance [email protected] input...it only has 4 questions!!! Here is the link https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/6SJTTP9 Maria Decoulos, Asst. Sec. [email protected] This ministry is for all on all levels: those who have grown up in the life of the church, those who have been married into the church and those who want Andy Vasilakis, Asst. Trea. to learn more about the church!!! The programs have been set up by our Archdiocese. We will [email protected] gather and watch a 20+ minute video and then have a discussion/question and answer to follow. We encourage all in 2014 to learn more about our Orthodox Faith and to participate in these classes. Maria Decoulos, Robert DeVasto, Mike Tanionos, Helen Theodosiou, Charlene Colt, Alexandra Joseph, Hope Tsacoyeanes We ask that each of you take the following survey found at this link http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/6SJTTP9 These 4 questions will help us offer an Adult Catechism & Bible Study in the New Year!

2 Messages (continued)

SAVE THE DATES St. Irene’s Philoptochos Events

“31 BAG PARTY” “Girls Night Out!” Thursday, April 24, 2014 - 6:30 p.m. We will have a great evening with wine, appetizers, desserts and an opportunity to see a demonstration of 31 Products. These products include: Wallets, storage items, pocketbooks, tote bags, pet leashes, organizational stuff and so much more. It will be a fun night out and we can work together to support our beloved St. Irene's Philoptochos. Please mark your calendars and look forward to some amazing fellowship and parea!

“WHITE ELEPHANT SALE” Saturday, May 10, 2014 - 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Start saving your knick-knacks, small household items, glassware, books, toys, games, sports equipment, small furniture, etc. All items must be in working condition, have all their parts and be clean. NO CLOTHING - NO TELEVISIONS - NO COMPUTER PARTS will be accepted. Drop-off schedule will be announced.

In preparation for Holy Friday Night’s Lamentation Service, we will be decorating the Kouvouklion with flowers on Holy Friday Morning. Immediately following the Service of Royal Hours, volunteers will begin this sacred task. All are invited to come to the church at 10:00 a.m. and help with the preparation.

3 Sunday of Orthodoxy Pics

4 Orthodoxy In the News

Vandalism at a Sacred Site in Constantinople Istanbul, Turkey 3/26/2014

Reportage and photographs by Nicholas Manginas

On Sunday, March 23, 2014 at noon, a number of young vandals invaded the courtyard and the chapel of Agia Paraskevi, the site of a Sacred Spring (Agiasma), outside the Byzantine walls near the Monastery of Baloukli.

For at least five hours, according to the testimony of the church sacristan (neokoros) of forty years, Athanasiou Ozkaramichaloglou, the runaway crowd of youths looted and dishonored the sacred precints of the Agiasma, disrupting the entire sanctuary, sending sacred vessels and priestly vestments flying to the floor. They also invaded the home of the neokoros. They caused significant damage, broke into the candle pangari, and when they fled, even stole a bell!

These unfortunate events occurred during the celebrations of the Turkish holiday, Nevrouz, that is a Springtime festival originating in Mesopotamia and continuing today in Turkey especially among Kurds. It is worth noting that despite calls for help (that were unanswered) the neokoros and his family fled from the area, resorting to the protection of the local police station only forty meters away. Even then the police declined to intervene on the pretext of further exacerbating the crowd. The band of youths left in the wreakage two flags of the HDP Party (composed mainly of Kurds).

Upon being informed of the events, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew expressed sorrow and indignation for the vandalism at the Agiasma.

5 After Pascha…

6 End of Great Lent and Holy Week

The memory of this Saint is celebrated on April 1, where her life is recorded. Since the end of the holy Forty Days is drawing nigh, it has been appointed for this day also, so that if we think it hard to practice a little abstinence forty days, we might be roused by the heroism of her who fasted in the wilderness forty-seven years; and also that the great loving-kindness of God, and His readiness to receive the repentant, might be demonstrated in very deed.

About the year 626, the Persians, Avars, and Slavs came with a great host and besieged the imperial city of Constantinople while the Emperor Heraclius and the main body of the Byzantine army were absent in the East. Enemy ships filled the sea, especially the Golden Horn, and on land the adversaries were ready for attack with foot-soldiers, horses, and engines of war. Though the citizens courageously withstood them, yet they were few in number and would be unable to repulse the attack of such a great host. Hence, they could not count on any other means of salvation, except the protection of the Theotokos. And truly, suddenly a violent tempest broke up all the ships and submerged them, and the bodies of the invaders were cast out near the Blachernae quarter of the city where the famous Church of the Theotokos stood. Taking courage from this, the people went forth from the city and repulsed the remaining forces, who fled out of fear. In 673, the city was miraculously delivered yet again, this time from an invasion of the Arabs. Then in 717-718, led by the Saracen general Maslamah, the Arab fleet laid siege once more to the city. The numerical superiority of the enemy was so overwhelming that the fall of the Imperial City seemed imminent. But then the Mother of God, together with a multitude of the angelic hosts, appeared suddenly over the city walls. The enemy forces, struck with terror and thrown into a panic at this apparition, fled in disarray. Soon after this, the Arab fleet was utterly destroyed by a terrible storm in the Aegean Sea on the eve of the Annunciation, March 24, 718. Thenceforth, a special "feast of victory and of thanksgiving" was dedicated to celebrate and commemorate these benefactions. In this magnificent service, the Akathist Hymn is prominent and holds the place of honour. It appears that even before the occasion of the enemy assaults mentioned above, the Akathist Hymn was already in use as the prescribed Service for the Feast of the Annunciation, together with the kontakion, "When the bodiless one learned the secret command," which has the Annunciation as its theme. It was only on the occasion of the great miracle wrought for the Christian populace of the Imperial City on the eve of the Annunciation in 718 that the hymn "To thee, the Champion Leader" was composed, most likely by Saint Germanus, Patriarch of Constantinople.

Historians have ascribed the Akathist Hymn to Patriarch Sergius of Constantinople (638), to Saint George the Confessor, Bishop of Pisidia (818), or even to Saint Photius the Great (891), all of whom lived either at the time of or after the above-mentioned sieges. However, it appears most likely from its language, content, and style that the true composer of the Akathist Hymn is Saint Romanus the Melodist (6th century).

On Sunday, five days before the Passover of the Law, the Lord came from Bethany to Jerusalem. Sending two of His disciples to bring Him a foal of an ass, He sat thereon and entered into the city. When the multitude there heard that Jesus was coming, they straightway took up the branches of palm trees in their hands, and went forth to meet Him. Others spread their garments on the ground, and yet others cut branches from the trees and strewed them in the way that Jesus was to pass; and all of them together, especially the children, went before and after Him, crying out: "Hosanna: Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord, the King of Israel" (John 12:13). This is the radiant and glorious festival of our Lord's entry into Jerusalem that we celebrate today.

The branches of the palm trees symbolize Christ's victory over the devil and death. The word Hosanna means "Save, I pray," or "Save, now." The foal of an ass, and Jesus' sitting thereon, and the fact that this animal was untamed and considered unclean according to the Law, signified the former uncleanness and wildness of the nations, and their subjection thereafter to the holy Law of the Gospel.

7 Holy Week & Great and Holy Pacha

Two women - say the more discerning interpreters of the Gospel - anointed the Lord with myrrh; the one, a long time before His Passion; the other, a few days before. One was a harlot and sinner; the other, chaste and virtuous. The Church commemorates this reverent act today. While mentioning herein the person of the harlot, it also mentions Judas' betrayal; for, according to the account in Matthew, both of these deeds took place two days before the Passover, on Wednesday.

That woman, then, anointed Jesus' head and feet with very precious myrrh, and wiped them with the tresses of her hair. The disciples, especially the avaricious Judas, were scandalized, supposedly because of the waste of the myrrh, which could be sold for a great price and given to the poor. The Lord Jesus reproved them and told them not to trouble the woman. Indignant, Judas went to the high priests, who were gathered in the court of Caiaphas and were already taking counsel against Jesus. On agreeing with them to betray his Teacher for thirty pieces of silver, Judas sought from that time opportunity to betray Him (Matt. 26:14-16). Because the betrayal took place on Wednesday, we have received the tradition from Apostolic times to fast on Wednesday throughout the year.

Mary Magdalene, and the other women who were present at the burial of our Saviour on Friday evening, returned from Golgotha to the city and prepared fragrant spices and myrrh, so that they might anoint the body of Jesus. On the morrow, because of the law which forbids work on the day of the Sabbath, they rested for the whole day. But at early dawn on the Sunday that followed, almost thirty-six hours since the death of the Life-giving Redeemer, they came to the sepulchre with the spices to anoint His body. While they were considering the difficulty of rolling away the stone from the door of the sepulchre, there was a fearful earthquake; and an Angel, whose countenance shone like lightning and whose garment was white as snow, rolled away the stone and sat upon it. The guards that were there became as dead from fear and took to flight. The women, however, went into the sepulchre, but did not find the Lord's body. Instead, they saw two other Angels in the form of youths clothed in white, who told them that the Saviour was risen, and they sent forth the women, who ran to proclaim to the disciples these gladsome tidings. Then Peter and John arrived, having learned from Mary Magdalene what had come to pass, and when they entered the tomb, they found only the winding sheets. Therefore, they returned again to the city with joy, as heralds now of the supernatural Resurrection of Christ, Who in truth was seen alive by the disciples on this day on five occasions.

Our Lord, then, was crucified, died, and was buried on Friday, before the setting of the sun, which was the first of His "three days" in the grave; observing the mystical Sabbath, that "seventh day" in which it is said that the Lord "rested from all His works" (Gen. 2:2-3), He passed all of Saturday in the grave; and He arose "while it was yet dark, very early in the morning" on Sunday, the third day, which, according to the Hebrew reckoning, began after sunset on Saturday.

As we celebrate today this joyous Resurrection, we greet and embrace one another in Christ, thereby demonstrating our Saviour's victory over death and corruption, and the destruction of our ancient enmity with God, and His reconciliation toward us, and our inheritance of life everlasting. The feast itself is called Pascha, which is derived from the Hebrew word which means "passover"; because Christ, Who suffered and arose, has made us to pass over from the curse of Adam and slavery to the devil and death unto our primal freedom and blessedness. In addition, this day of this particular week, which is the first of all the rest, is dedicated to the honour of the Lord; in honour and remembrance of the Resurrection, the Apostles transferred to this day the rest from labour that was formerly assigned to the Sabbath of the ancient Law.

All foods allowed during Renewal Week.

8 Stewardship Report “The Orthodox Church truly provides us with an opportunity to increase our February 18, 2014 spiritual participation during the Lenten period. It is not just something "we have to do," but something we can cheerfully "choose to do" because Pledges: $95,010 the Church prescribes it to help us walk towards the victory of the Resurrection. Stewardship received $41,320 We need only be willing to make those difficult sacrifices that bring us to Total Pledged Stewards the end of the race… opportunities to practice our Orthodox faith in the 86 daily routines of fasting, charitable works, sorrow for our transgressions, and a resolve to reach for the joy of Pascha in these remaining weeks of the Great Fast. During this period, as in the Olympics, those who hold fast to March 25, 2014 their goals will emerge renewed and thankful for the opportunity to grow as Pledges: $98,432 Orthodox Christians.” Stewardship received: (http://goarch.org/ourfaith/there-is-always-time/) $47,550 Dear St. Nicholas Parish family, Total Pledges stewards 97 As we continue our Lenten journey, my prayer for us all is that we can stay Stewarddship Goal 2014 focused on fasting, prayer, giving and learning. $155,505 With love in Christ,

Tony Gray

PLEASE JOIN US ON LAZARUS SATURDAY, APRIL 12 AS YOUR PARISH FAMILY FOLLOWING THE DIVINE LITURGY FOR…

If 50 people will stay and help, we will be done in less than an hour. Since our Church gave us 40 days for us to clean up our lives… 9 Youth Ministries

GOYA Altar Server Ministry: Yianni Barbas, Jonathan Colt, Peter The GOYA is planning a lock-in for Holy Thursday evening, leading into the Holy Friday Retreat. The plan is to stay up as long as possible, reading the bible together. Please email Costarakis, Jack Decoulos, Tino Leto ([email protected]) if you plan to participate and have not rsvp'd. In February and Decoulos, Ross Diorio, Alexander March. Heisler, Nicholas Heisler, Christopher Kokkinos, Jonathan We baked prosforo together (thanks to Pam Brown), and watched Son of Man. Kokkinos, Dimitri Psyhojos, Stay tuned for details regarding our May activity: Greek dance lesson and gyro party. Andrew Sager, Themis Splagounias, Loukas Speros, Maximos Speros, Anthony Wilson, Church School Andoni Zervoglos The Church School would like to recognize all our students who participated in this year's Oratorical Festival. Students in our junior/senior division participated by giving speeches, Church School Directors: while the younger classes made posters, pictures and other creative projects. Lariza Panagiotou If you haven't already, please register your child for our Holy Friday retreat! It is important [email protected] to get an accurate headcount as soon as possible for planning purposes. We have various Leto Papadopoulos activities planned and look forward to seeing everyone there. [email protected]

Greek School Principals: Greek School Gloria Doukakis Καλό Μήνα! [email protected] Lela Digenis [email protected] Spring is finally here! We are looking forward to seeing you at the Greek Independence Day Parade in Boston on Sunday, April 6th. The Parade begins at 1:00 in the afternoon. There will be a bus available for all parishioners after Liturgy at the Church. Once again the Greek School Family Ministries is providing a float for the children this year. The Church Council will provide the bus, so please Stephanie Wilson sign up on the bus “sign-up” sheet if you are planning to join us. [email protected] We thank St. Irene’s Philoptochos, the Church Council, and many parishioners who have made “40 to 4” Infant/Pre – K Ministry: monetary contributions towards the expense of the bus and the float. The Greek School, as in Gloria Costarakis the past, pays for the entrance fee for the parade, which is $200 as well as most of the expense [email protected] of the float. The float is a beautiful addition to the St. Nicholas community march. Last year, we had the biggest participation than previous years. So, please make it a fun day and join us this year. Youth Choir Efthemia Zervoglos On March 23rd, the Greek School children did an incredible job reciting poems about the [email protected] Annunciation of the Virgin Mary and Greek Independence Day. Their poems, songs, and dances were enjoyed by all! There were also delicious “treats” provided by the Greek School families. HOPE/JOY Advisors: We thank you for supporting our children and the school. Mike Wilson [email protected] Cassandra Garibaldi Please note that since Easter is on April 20th, we will not have school on April 19th, which is Holy [email protected] Saturday. On April 12th , the Saturday of Lazarus, school will also be closed. Instead of classes, children will attend Church and then help make crosses for Palm Sunday. GOYA Advisors: Καλό Πάσχα και Καλή Ανάσταση! Leto Papadopoulos We wish all of you [email protected] Kathy Dimas Daphne Papadopoulosdaphneathena@gm Youth Choir ail.com We meet every Saturday from 11:00 a.m. till noon.. Nectarios Ritzakis We had a great time last year, learning the Hymns of our [email protected] Church, and invite any of our young people to join us.

10 Chanters: Timothy Patitsas [email protected] St. Irene’s Philoptochos Efthimia Zervoglos [email protected] Thank you to all those who have sent in their stewardship. We have 62 members to date! If you haven’t sent in your stewardship yet, please consider doing so before the end of the month, as names Adult Choir: will be submitted by the end of April. Efthemia Zervoglos For our March commitments to National, we will send $150 for Orthodox Christian Mission Center, [email protected] and $100 for SAMP (Support A Mission Priest). We will also send $200 to the Office of Vocation & Ministry for the CrossRoad program. St. Irene’s Ladies Philoptochos: There is a new program in town called “Lift Up Lexington” whose mission is to feed those families Pamela Brown, President living at the Quality Inn in Lexington. St. Nicholas is one of the many Interfaith groups participating. [email protected] We will be hosting a meal for them in the future, date to be determined. It will most likely be a Sunday evening from 5 – 7.

Seniors Group: St. Irene’s will, once again, be hosting the Fellowship Hour on Palm Sunday. Gloria Doukakis On Holy Thursday morning we will be wrapping the eggs for Pascha. [email protected] Holy Friday morning we will be decorating the Kouvouklion. John Yanakis We hope you can help with these events. We’d love to see you!

Health Ministry Group: Thursday, April 24, we will have a new fundraiser – a 31 Bag Party! If you haven’t been to one yet Anthony Gray (or even if you have!), please join us!! [email protected] Our next meeting will be Monday, April 7 at 6:30. Hope to see you there! Judy Gray [email protected] Mike Wilson Health and Wellness Ministry [email protected] We hope this finds you all having a wonderful and Blessed Lent. Alyssa Psyhojos [email protected] Our weekly workout classes after weekday services have been well attended and so much fun. But there is always room for more!!! Come and join us on Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights after Adult Choir services for fellowships and exercise!!!! Once the weather gets warmer we will start our health walks on Sundays after Liturgy!! The Adult Choir meets every Thursday at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference room. In the new Church year, we will be chanting about once a Our Church will be taking the Kouvouklion month together with Dr. outside again this year, going by the parish Timothy Patitsas. house, walking across the street and down to the 2-way stop, then walking back to the front steps of the Church). The Please feel welcome to Kouvouklion will be taken back inside the join, and see and try out, outside for the procession on Great and if chanting is something Holy Friday evening. As long as the weather you would like to do. cooperates, the short procession will occur You may contact as in years past (up the street to the church Efthemia Zervoglos by and the Epitaphio will remain outside being email held by ministry leaders and others. All will pass under the Epitaphios to re-enter the Church (this is done showing that we are walking under the tomb into Hades with our Lord).

Furthermore, if any strong men and women would like to assist in carrying the Kouvouklion, containing the Epitaphios, please speak with a member of the Parish Council. 11 April 2014

Dear St. Nicholas Parish Family,

What a great time of year this is! We all get to spend time together—both our immediate family and spiritual family of the St. Nicholas parish—observing our most cherished and solemn time of Great Lent in preparation for Holy Week and the Resurrection.

I am always amazed by the daily miracles the Lord delivers upon us. Take, for example, the couple who saved a 3-year-old boy just as he tumbled out of a third-story window in Burbank, CA. The couple happened to be moving a box spring mattress nearby when they observed the boy hanging from telephone wire outside the window. With quick thinking, the woman, Jennifer, called the police while the husband placed the box spring mattress below the window and moments later, safely caught the boy. The only reason they happened to be there was because they had been delayed by a stuck elevator during the move, the couple said.

The various news outlets called it fate and a “lucky break” for the boy. Jennifer was quoted as saying, “God definitely had us in the right place at the right time.” I think Jennifer has it right.

I wish you and your loved ones a blessed and peaceful Pascha.

With love in Christ,

Tom Tsaros [email protected] 617-733-6107

GODPARENT SUNDAY April 27, 2014 (Sunday after Pascha!)

We will also continue our tradition in having a Parish family breakfast. If you are able to help with the preparation, cooking or cleaning up please contact the church office. 12 As our 50th Anniversary year progresses, following is an update of our events and activities being planned in celebration. More information will be available during the month through the weekly bulletin, our bulletin boards in the church hall and through mail systems.

· Our was displayed for the first time in the church hall during the . It was also part of the decoration on the cake supplied for the occasion.

· Maria Decoulos is in the final stages of setting up the with photos and special messages. If you haven’t already done so, please send in your photos and arrange for special messages which you may want to add

· Our celebratory will be sponsored by on Palm Sunday, as is the cus- tom every year.

· Dates for our will be made public as soon as they are firmed up

· Sunday, April 6, is the date for in Boston. Bus transportation will be provided and, once again, St. Nicholas Church will have a float in the Parade. Our banners will be displayed on this float.

· Our community will also be participating for the first time in the on April 21, please sign up at the church to take part in this parade

· Plans are in progress for the Philoptochos sponsored to be held on The tea will be held in . Please see more information elsewhere in this bulletin. As the month of April progresses, more tea related info will be forthcoming. Again, we would like to ask that anyone having that we can use for display, please contact the church office

· As reported earlier, our should be ready for presentation in September

· The also on our list

· is the date for our Anyone wishing to help with planning this event should contact Christine Vallas or Lela Digenis

· In an effort to include as many ministries as we can in this celebration, we still have groups working on the following: the (GOYA), the which we hope to set up on an upcoming Family Night, the by the Church School children, and the presentation. The is also still in the works

· will mark the of the . We will be planning several events in the month of November which will bring our celebration year full circle. These events are now in the working stage and will be reported on as plans are finalized

· Our will take place

·

Co chairs: Lela Digenis, Felia Proakis, Christine Vallas

13 Celebrating This Month

On March 8, 2014, the daughter of James and Shelly Tsikouris was baptized and given the name Despina Dimitra. The Godmother is Presbytera Tina Oshaana.

On March 15, 2014, a funeral service was celebrated for Evelyn Milona, wife of the late George Milona and mother of Nicholas and Michael Milona.

Tony and Judy Gray

14 Under the direction of our Church School, our parish will be hosting a Great and Holy Friday Retreat. The retreat will begin with arrival/registration at 10:00 am. Following registration, a “welcome lunch” will be served. The retreat will conclude at the completion of the Un-nailing Service which will begin at 2:30 pm. We encourage all parents and grandparents to be at this service and to pray with your young ones; service should end by 4:00 pm. We ask that parents fill out the attached registration form and send it to the church or to give it to a Church School teacher.

We are asking for girls in our community from 3rd to 6th grade to participate in this beautiful tradition. The flower girls (known as myrophores) represent the myrrhbearing women who came to the tomb to anoint the Body of Christ. PLEASE NOTE: ALL GIRLS WHO ARE PLANNING TO BE FLOWER GIRLS SHOULD WEAR A WHITE DRESS AND WHITE SHOES. If you would like to have your daughter take part in the service on Great and Holy Friday evening, please contact the Church office.

After the Resurrection Service and following The Divine Liturgy on Pascha, everyone is invited to come into the Church Hall and enjoy the fellowship as one family. This event is being sponsored by the Parish Council to thank all the faithful stewards of Christ’s Church for your love and support. If you would like to assist in this fellowship hour, please contact a Parish Council member.

On Pascha at the Agape Service (Vespers of Love) the Gospel reading is to be proclaimed in as many languages as possible. If you can read a foreign language and would like to take part in this beautiful service of our Church, please contact Fr. Demetri.

someone comes forward to organize this event, there will be an egg hunt for the young people of our parish following the Agape Service on Pascha Sunday. Please remember that the Agape Service is a short Vespers service lasting about 50 minutes. Since this service is not a Divine Liturgy, Holy Communion will not be distributed. We look forward to seeing our young people attend the service and the fellowship that follows. 15

17 (Phanar, March 6-9, 2014)

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Through the grace of God, the Primates of the Most Holy Autocephalous Orthodox Churches, to the Orthodox faithful throughout the world, all of our Christian brothers and sisters as well as every person of goodwill: we extend God’s blessing and our greeting of love and peace.

“We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thess. 1.2-3)

1. Having convened by the grace of our compassionate God, at the invitation of the Archbishop of Constantinople and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, at the Phanar, from March 6-9, 2014; having deliberated in fraternal love on matters concerning our Holy Church today; and concelebrating in the Patriarchal Church of St. George on the glorious occasion of the Sunday of Orthodoxy, we address you with these words of love, peace and consolation.

Inasmuch as our One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Orthodox Church dwells in the world, it also experiences the challenges of every age. Faithful to Holy Tradition, the Church of Christ is in constant dialogue with every period of time, suffering with human beings and sharing their anguish. For “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and to the ages” (Heb. 13.8).

The trials and challenges of history are especially acute in our days, and Orthodox Christians cannot remain uninvolved or indifferent to them. This is why we have assembled “together in one place” (Acts 2.1) in order to reflect on the problems and temptations facing humanity today. “There is fighting without and fear within.” (2 Cor. 7.5) These Apostolic words are also valid for the Church today.

2. In reflecting upon people’s suffering throughout the world, we express our support for the martyrdom and our admiration for the witness of Christians in the Middle East, Africa, and other parts of the world. We call to mind their dual martyrdom: for their faith as well as for the safeguarding of their historical relationship with people of other religious conviction. We denounce the lack of peace and stability, which is prompting Christians to abandon the land where our Lord Jesus Christ was born and whence the Good News spread to the entire world.

Our sympathy extends to all victims of the tragedy in Syria. We condemn every form of terrorism and defamation of religion. The kidnapping of Metropolitans Paul and Youhanna, other clergymen as well as the nuns of St. Thecla Convent in Maaloula remains an open wound, and we demand their immediate liberation.

We appeal to all involved for the immediate cessation of military action, liberation of captives, and establishment of peace in the region through dialogue. Christians in the Middle East are a leaven of peace. Peace for all people also means peace for Christians. We support the Patriarchate of Antioch in its spiritual and humanitarian ministry, as well as its efforts for reconstruction and the resettlement of all refugees.

3. We fervently pray for peaceful negotiation and prayerful reconciliation in the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. We denounce the threats of violent occupation of sacred monasteries and churches, and pray for the return of our brothers presently outside of ecclesiastical communion into the Holy Church.

4. A fundamental threat to justice and peace – both locally and globally – is the global economic crisis. The ramifications of this are evident on all layers in society, where such values as personal integrity, fraternal solidarity and justice are often wanting. The origins of this crisis are not merely financial. They are moral and spiritual in character. Instead of conforming to the worldly idols of power, greed and hedonism, we emphasize our vocation to transform the world by embracing the principles of justice, peace, and love.

As a result of self-centeredness and abuse of power, many people undermine the sacredness of the human person, neglecting to see the face of God in the least of our brothers and sisters (cf. Matt. 25.40,45). Many remain indifferent to the poverty, suffering and violence that plague humanity.

5. The Church is called to articulate its prophetic word. We express our genuine concern about local and global trends that undermine and erode the principles of faith, the dignity of the human person, the institution of marriage, and the gift of creation.

18 We stress the undisputed sanctity of human life from inception until natural death. We recognize marriage as the union of man and woman that reflects the union between Christ and His Church. Our vocation is to preserve the natural environment as stewards and not proprietors of creation. In this period of Great Lent, we exhort our clergy and laity to observe a spirit of repentance, to experience purity of heart, humility and forgiveness, bearing witness to the timeless teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ in society.

6. This Synaxis of Primates is a blessed occasion for us to reinforce our unity through communion and cooperation. We affirm our commitment to the paramount importance of synodality for the unity of the Church. We affirm the words of St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, that “the name of the Church signifies unity and concord, not division.” Our heart is set on the long-awaited Holy and Great Synod of the Orthodox Church in order to witness to its unity as well as to its responsibility and care for the contemporary world.

The Synaxis agreed that the preparatory work to the Synod should be intensified. A special Inter-Orthodox Committee will work from September 2014 until Holy Easter of 2015, followed by a Pre-Synodal Pan-Orthodox Conference to be convened in the first half of 2015. All decisions at the Synod and in the preparatory stages are made by consensus. The Holy and Great Synod of the Orthodox Church will be convened by the Ecumenical Patriarch in Constantinople in 2016, unless something unexpected occurs. The Synod will be presided by the Ecumenical Patriarch. His brother Primates of the other Orthodox Autocephalous Churches will be seated at his right and at his left.

7. Inseparably interconnected with unity is mission. The Church does not live for itself but is obliged to witness to and share God’s gifts with those near and afar. Participating in the Divine Eucharist and praying for the oikoumene, we are called to continue this liturgy after the liturgy, sharing the gifts of truth and love with all humankind, in accordance with the Lord’s last commandment and assurance: “Go ye, and make disciples of all nations . . . And lo, I shall be with you until the end of the ages” (Matt. 28.19-20).

8. We live in a world where multiculturalism and pluralism are inevitable realities, which are constantly changing. We are conscious of the fact that no issue in our time can be considered or resolved without reference to the global, that any polarization between the local and the ecumenical only leads to distortion of the Orthodox way of thinking.

Therefore, even in the face of voices of dissension, segregation, and division, we are determined to proclaim the message of Orthodoxy. We acknowledge that dialogue is always better than conflict. Withdrawal and isolationism are never options. We reaffirm our obligation at all times to be open in our contact with “the other”: with other people and other cultures, as well as with other Christians and people of other faiths.

9. Above and beyond all challenges, we proclaim the good news of a God, who “so loved the world” that He “dwelt among us.” Thus, we Orthodox remain full of hope. Despite all tensions, we nevertheless dare to hope in the “almighty God, who is and who was and who is to come” (Rev. 1.8) For we remember that the last word – the word of joy, love, and life – belongs to Him, to whom is due all glory, honor and worship to the ages of ages. Amen.

At the Phanar, the 9th of March, 2014

+ Bartholomew of Constantinople

+ Theodoros of Alexandria + Theophilos of Jerusalem + Kirill of Moscow + Irinej of Serbia + Daniel of Romania + Neophyte of Bulgaria + Ilia of Georgia + Chrysostomos of Cyprus + Ieronymos of Athens + Sawa of Warsaw + Anastasios of Tirana

19 Attendees of the March 26 Pre-sanctified Liturgy, at which we hosted Watertown and Weston parishes, heard from guest speaker Lou Zagami, regional development director, of the current focus of International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) activities. Following a delicious and abundant Lenten meal prepared by several parishioners, Lou explained IOCC’s mission: “In the spirit of Christ’s love, (IOCC) offers emergency relief and development programs to those in need worldwide, without discrimination, and strengthens the capacity of the Orthodox Church to so respond.” A brief video showed IOCC’s work to support Syrians both inside the country and as refugees in neighboring countries, during the past two years of war, and the people of Greece following the country’s financial collapse. “Many of these people are the middle class,” Lou said of the Greeks who line up to receive meals at soup kitchens and for food parcels. “Imagine you have lost your job and your home and there is no unemployment benefit. This is what they are dealing with and here is what we are doing to assist them in what we hope is a temporary situation.” He also showed IOCC’s work in the U.S. following natural and man-made disasters such as Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, the World Trade Center destruction, and the shootings at Sandy Hook. IOCC uses donations efficiently, he said, using 92 cents of every dollar for direct aid and leveraging each dollar to attract up to seven times that in aid grants. For more information on IOCC’s work and to make a donation, visit www.IOCC.org.

As part of its support for Syrian relief, IOCC has sent cargo containers of hygiene kits (such as the ones our parish family assembled for Haiti relief a few years ago) and school kits. The supplies always need to be replenished! We have 100 custom-made canvas bags for holding the necessary school supplies that will enable displaced Syrian children to attend school in their host countries and continue learning. If you would like to purchase supplies from the list below, contribute toward the purchase, or help with this effort, please contact Pam Giannatsis at 781.608.6906 or [email protected]. The cost for supplies and bag is approximately $20. Thank you!

School supply list: o One pair of blunt scissors (rounded tip) o Three 70-count spiral or tape-bound pads of 8” x 10-1/2” ruled paper r or pads with 200-210 sheets. Please do not provide loose-leaf or filler paper. o One 30-centimeter ruler (12”) o One hand-held pencil sharpener o Six new pencils with erasers o One eraser, 2-1/2” o One box of 24 crayons (only 24)

20 March 7, 2014 Patriots’ Day Events A Message from the Lexington Police Department

As we approach Patriots’ Day, we are mindful of the media attention the Boston Marathon and other special events are receiving after the 2013 bombing. The Lexington Police Department has worked closely with Town officials and regional law enforcement authorities to review and revise our security plan for the April 19th to April 21st weekend. We have partnered with the Town Celebrations Committee, Re-enactors, DPW, and Lexington Fire Department to ensure a safe and enjoyable community event.

Please help with our security efforts by limiting:

· Backpacks or large containers, where possible. · Ladders, scaffolding or large step stools.

In addition, please: · Use clear or mesh bags to carry large personal items. · Do not leave bags or containers unattended.

Items left unattended will be removed from public areas by Police.

If you see something say something! Thank you. Chief Mark J. Corr

Battle Green Activities-approx 10am-4pm (expect delays)

- 12pm-2pm: approx 11:30am: Mass Ave from Statue to Worthen Rd and all of Harrington Rd will be closed before performance. Bedford from Harrington Rd to Mass Ave may also close depending on crowd size.

-expect delays approx 230pm by Munroe Tavern (Mass Ave by Percy Rd) Mass Ave from Marrett Rd and Percy Rd will be closed from approx 3:30-5:15 pm.

- 10:30pm on April 19th to 1230am: Bedford St from Mass Ave and Harrington Rd and Hancock St between Adams St and Bedford St will be closed

Battle Green Activities-approx 10am-4pm (expect delays)

- approx 3:00am: Bedford St between Harrington Rd and Mass Ave will be closed approx 5:00am: Mass Ave between Worthen Rd and Waltham St will be closed Bedford St between Worthen Rd and Mass Ave will be closed approx 5:45am: Mass Ave between Woburn St and Waltham St will be closed **roads will re-open after most pedestrian traffic is clear of Battle Green area**

approx 6:30am-8am expect delays from Mass Ave by Bloomfield to center area approx 07:15: Mass Ave between Bloomfield and Woburn St will be closed approx 07:25: Mass Ave between Bedford and Woburn St will be closed approx 07:25: Hancock St between Adams St and Bedford St will be closed approx 07:25: Bedford St between Mass Ave and Worthen Rd will be closed approx 07:25: Mass Ave from Statue to Worthen Rd will be closed approx 09:00-11:30: expect delays on race course approx 09:00: Mass Ave from Statue to Forest St will be closed

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Saint Nicholas Great and Holy Friday Retreat Friday, April 18, 2014 ***Children under 5 MUST BE accompanied by an adult*** A parent or guardian signature will be required at both sign-in and sign-out Letters excusing children from Public Schools are available GOYANS will help with the decorating of the Kouvouklion AGENDA 10:00-10:30 am Arrival/Registration 10:30-12:30 pm Group Activities/Interactive Lessons 12:30-1:00 pm Lunch 1:00-2:00 pm Interactive Lessons/Craft Workshops 2:00-2:30 pm Group Discussions 2:30 pm Apokathilosis Service (Taking Down From Cross) Parents are encouraged to wors hip togethe r with Children Dismissal (Follow ing Completion of Service) 7:00 pm Lamentation Service (Epitaphios Thrinos)* *Girls ages 8 through 12, who would like to participate as myrophores (flower girls who represent the myrrh-bearing women) in the Lamentation Service, should dress in white and arrive early. Father Demetri will meet with them during the retreat. REGISTRATION FORM Please complete information below and return to Church School staff Name Church School Grade

Parent/Guardian Name(s) Home/Cell Phones

Allergies or Medication needed:

23 Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church 17 Meriam Street Lexington, Massachusetts 02420-5368

Address Service Requested

Afternoon Parade- Parade Route: Mass Ave from Maple St to Worthen Rd Expect delays at staging area and parade end Worthen Rd by Lincoln St approx 12pm: Mass Ave between Maple St and Pleasant St Rotary will be closed approx 1pm: Mass Ave between Worthen Rd and Maple St will be closed

PARKING INFORMATION

From Saturday April 19th-April 21st, there will be no enforcement of meter or parking lot fees There will be areas posted no parking throughout the entire weekend. Pay attention to areas posted no parking. These areas will be strictly enforced and vehicles may be towed from restricted areas.

**Due to Easter Services at the many churches in the center area, parking will be allowed during Sunday services in some areas. Vehicles must be removed at the conclusion of services.

THERE WILL BE NO PARKING ALLOWED IN THE SPACES ADJOINING THE BATTLEGREEN FOR THE ENTIRE WEEKEND. THIS AREA WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED AND ILLEGALY PARKED VEHICLES WILL BE TOWED IMMEDIATELY.

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