March Saint 2016 Sophia Greek Orthodox CathedralPage

HERALD

INSIDE THIS ISSUE MARCH 20, 2016

Dean’s Message 2 President’s Message 3 Stewardship 4 Philoptochos News 5 Philoptochos VIP 5 Inner Stillness Center 6 Ministries list 8 /Memorials 9 Holly Week Schedule 12 Feast Day Article 12 Orthodox Calendars 14,15

The Thessaloniki Epitaphios. Liturgical Cloth, c.1300 AD, Silk, Gold, Silver Wire on Linen, Overall: 72 X 200 cm Museum of Byzantine Culture, Thessaloniki,

V. Rev. Fr. John S. Bakas, Dean Tel. 323-737-2424 Sunday of - March 27 1324 S. Normandie Avenue Fax. 323-737-7029 Sunday of the Holy Cross - April 3 Los Angeles, CA 90006 www.stsophia.org Sunday of Saint - April 10 Page 2 March 2016 Dean’s Message “A Sickness of the Soul”

I had a dream last night about Fr. Arsenios, a monk at Fr. Arsenios ended his story by reminding us that as iron is Simonopetra Monastery on Mt. Athos. Perhaps seeing for the eaten by rust, so are the envious consumed by envy. fourth time the wonderful CBS 60 Minutes presentation about Recalling this story made me reflect on what envy can do to Mount Athos, and seeing once again on my TV screen the rust out the good plans of parish ministry and goals. It divides majestic and towering monastery awakened my subconscious the faithful and even infects us who are graced with the memories of the week I spent at Simonopetra a few years priesthood. It rusts out friendships, relationships in families ago. and business partnerships. Envy is sadness at another's good, as if that good were an affront to one's own superiority. I met Fr. Arsenios in one of the monastery's guest meeting The envious person hates to see anyone else happy or rooms for an impromptu talk about the monastic path to successful. It is as though it is taken from them. Since the encountering God. Unexpectedly he asked the fifteen or so envious person cannot go up, he tries to achieve equality by pilgrims gathered there a dramatic question, "Who crucified pulling the other down. The soul sickened by envy begins its Christ. Do you know?". There was a momentary course by seeking to lower the reputation of another, either silence; one man said it was the Jews, another said it was secretly or by gossip or overtly by detraction. It seeks to stir Pontius Pilate and the Roman soldiers. "No", said Fr. up conflicts, to arouse controversy and foster antagonism. In Arsenios, "you are all wrong.” It was envy and jealousy, those reality the only person worth envying is the person who foul passions that sicken the human heart. That's what doesn't envy. crucified Christ and still crucifies Him today." He continued, "There are many roads to hate, but envy is the shortest of I remember Fr. Arsenios saying that one of the most effective them all." ways of counteracting jealousy and envy in ourselves is to say a prayer immediately for the person we resent. By referring He closed his eyes, stroked his long gray beard and again our enemies to God and by spiritually wishing them well, we continued to speak. "My dear beloved, let me tell you a story crush the impulse toward envy. The sunlight of love will kill all from The Desert Fathers about this: Satan, cursed be his the germs of jealousy and envy. A second means is to try to name, was training his demons on the art of attacking the emulate those who provoke our envy. The holds up Holy Fathers, sending them out with the intent of causing the good example of the Saints, not to discourage us in our them to fall into sin. A cunning novice demon on assignment, failings, but to encourage us to greater efforts. 'Let us keep approached a monk on his way to the market place disguised one another in mind, always ready with incitements to charity as a beautiful and suggestively dressed woman trying to lure and to acts of piety." (Heb. 10:24) him into an immoral act. The holy monk closed his eyes and turned his back on her and took another path. The frustrated In Christ, demon didn't give up. He laid another trap. He placed a bag full of gold coins on the side of the road. The monk nearly stumbled over it. He opened it. The shining coins glistened in the sunlight. He picked up the bag, took it into the town and gave it to the authorities saying that some unfortunate traveler must have lost it. It should be returned to him.' V. Rev. Fr. John S. Bakas, Dean The demon was frantic with anger. He returned to the pit of hell to report to Satan and admit his failure. “I tried using lust and greed but nothing worked.” the downcast demon said. Satan smiled and shook his head, “Some of these monks are very hard to crack. You are a beginner. Come, come with me and I'll show you how it's done!” Satan and the demon disguised themselves as monks and encountered the holy monk on the road as he was returning to his hut. After the usual monastic greetings and exchange of pleasantries Satan told the monk, “Father, did you hear the wonderful news? Your brother, Fr. Athanasios, was just elected Patriarch of Alexandria.” Red faced and shaking, the monk spat on the ground and said: “Why that good for nothing and worthless brother of mine is not half as worthy or able as I am to hold that office.” Satan laughed an eerie and soul piercing laugh. “You see, my little demon, many a holy monk eventually will fall by the passions of envy and jealousy.” March 2016 Page 3 PARISH COUNCIL MESSAGE Reflect in your Mind and Heart

All things bright and beautiful, all creatures great and was love and gifts to make this happen and I want to thank small, all things wise and wonderful, the Lord God made you for your trust, your willingness to help and your loving them all gifts to help generations to come to continue to hear the beautiful music of our Church. Each little flower that opens, each little bird that sings, He made their glowing colors, He made their tiny wings Through your gifts we are able to not only support our The rich man in his castle, the poor man at his gate, God ministries but to expand our ministries to meet the diversity of made them, high or lowly, and ordered their estate. our people’s needs. There is something for everyone and I hope you will belong and continue to help us grow. We need The purple-headed mountain, the river running by, the you, we hear you and we aim to serve you to continue to sunset, and the morning, that brightens up the sky; make Saint Sophia the beacon of light on the rocky shores of The cold wind in the winter, the pleasant summer sun, the Los Angeles. ripe fruits in the garden, He made them every one. Please take the time to keep the words from the poem above The tall trees in the greenwood, the meadows where we in your mind and heart. Join us in our Lenten services, pray play, the rushes by the water, we gather every day; for Father Bakas’ strength and guidance to continue at Saint Sophia for many years to come, believe and support our He gave us eyes to see them, and lips that we might tell, Parish Council and our Ministries and always pray for the sick, how great is God Almighty, who has made all things well. the needy and the lives of our people who will benefit from -Cecil Frances Alexander yours and God’s gifts for years to come.

I wanted to share one of my favorite poems with all of you. As Thank you for your friendship, your spirituality, your beliefs Springtime continues, daylight savings started, and soon we’ll that what we are doing is helping to grow and to meet the be in our Greek Orthodox Lenten season looking forward to needs of our Saint Sophia Community. Dare to dream and to our services and Pascha, I’m reminded to take the remember all of the gifts that God has given us. time to stop, look around, notice and forever be grateful for Yours in Christ, the day that has been given to us by God. Upon walking into Brent A. Noyes, Parish Council President the Cathedral and in passing other parishioners and friends along the way, I’m reminded by many of them that God is Good and Great and that God gave all for us.

At Saint Sophia, I’m reminded over and over of the many gifts that we share together such as friendship, our acts of kindness toward each other, our beliefs and practices of our religious teachings, our memories and love for those who passed and for those who live, and finding so many ways to share our gifts for our Cathedral and community. Each of you bring your gifts and talents to Church which helps us to continue to grow spiritually and financially. For example, through your gifts and in our fundraising successes for Father Bakas’ 20 years anniversary, we were able to purchase and install our new Cathedral organ and soon, our new bell system. There was a need, there was a purpose and there Page 4 March 2016

Believe and Belong through Christian Stewardship STEWARDSHIP FAMILIES JANUARY 2016 $20,000+ Fovos, Ms. Zoi Loukaris, Mrs. Mersy Marcus, Mr. & Mrs. George Georgeson, Mr. & Mrs. Michael Marentes, Mr. James $10,000 - $14,999 Halekakis, Mr. & Mrs. Steve Mitropoulos, Ms. Daphane & Mr. Marco Ambatielos, Mr. & Mrs. Evangelos * Itzigsohn, Mr. & Mrs. Iglesias Rallis, Mr. & Mrs. John Kafatos, Drs. Menas and Susan Yang Papachristos, Mr. & Mrs. Ioannis Petras, Mr. & Mrs. Brian $8,000 To $9,999 Kalban, Pavlou, Mr. Jeffrey & Mrs. Maria Reeves, Ms. Lily Caras, Mr. & Mrs. Chris W. Kallis, Mr. Larry Saigh, Mr. & Mrs. Mark Papalexis, Mrs. Vergie * Karagianis, Mr. & Mrs. Lou Sarantes, Mr. & Mrs. Nick $6,000 To $7,999 Karavedas, Ms. Frances Sideris, Mr. & Mrs. Steven Patzakis, Dr. & Mrs. Michael* Kezios, Mr. & Mrs. Nick Sinopoli, Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Peterson, Mr. & Mrs. John* Lianos, Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Smith, Mrs. Sophie $4,000 To $5,999 Liappas, Mr. & Mrs. Demetrios Soldevilla, Mr. Eric Pappas, Mr. & Mrs. Harry* Mitsinikos, Mr. & Mrs. John Spiropoulos, Mr. & Mrs. Jimmy Evangelatos, Dr. & Mrs. Dennis* Moore, Mr. & Mrs. Tom Stefanidis, Mr. Nikolaos $2,000 To $3,999 Morrison, Mr. & Mrs. Charles Stumpus, Mrs. Elizabeth Anonymous (3) Noyes, Mr. & Mrs. Brent Varentges, Mr. & Mrs. George Ananias, Mr. & Mrs. James Pelargos, Mr. & Mrs. Emmanuel Vasilion, Mr & Mrs. Peter Balamaci, Mr. Thomas & Mr. Patrick Rebiga, Mr. & Mrs. Julian Woloschinowisch, Mrs. Mary Wildnauer Roussos, Mr. & Mrs. Theodosios Zagorianos, Ms. Kathleen Boston, Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Tangalakis, Mrs. Mary Louise Zagorianos, Ms. Marsha Boukidis, Mr. & Mrs. Constantine Thimakis, Mr. Stanley Christopoulos, Mr. & Mrs. Gus Veselic, Mr. Kevin & Mrs. Patty Tsilidas Hanna, Mr. & Mrs. Steve Zonos, Mr. & Mrs. Ted * OTHER Kallins, Dr. & Mrs. James* $650 To $999 Anonymous (2) Manolopoulos, Mr. & Mrs. Peter Always, Ms. Sheryl Antoniou, Dr. & Mrs. Peter H. O’Connor, Mrs. Fotine Anonymous (1) Dalkas, Mr. & Mrs. Anthony O’Regan, Mrs. Melanie Anderson, Mr. Perrin & Mrs. Manna Diorio, Mr. Carl Schwalm, Mr. & Mrs. James Stavrakas Fenady, Ms. Georgea Toczek, Dr. Maria Tekla Andreadis, Ms. Irene Fenady, Mr. John $1,000 To $1,999 Antonopoulos, Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Fenady, Mrs. Katherine Anonymous, (1) Apergis, Ms. Irene & Mr. Peter Lamson Fenady Ryan, Mr. Clayton Anastassiou, Mr. Thomas Balanos, Mr. & Mrs. John Fenady, Mr. Shamus Andrei, Mr. & Mrs. John Brotsis, Mrs. Barbara Vera Kominos, Ms. Grigoria Andrews, Mr. George Burkard, Ms. Caroline Naoumovitch, Mrs. Theodora Boller, Mrs. Jeannette McDemas Chester, Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Nicolaidis, Mr. Nicolas Camperos, Mr. & Mrs. Peter Columbis, Mr. & Mrs. Paul Papavasiliou, Mr. & Mrs. Sotirios Caras, Mrs. Georgia K. * Fagan, Mr. & Mrs. Milton Petros, Mr. & Mrs. John Cazacus, Mr. Pete Garcia-Ananias, Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Politis, Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Christy, Mrs. Connie Hronis, Ms. Soteria & Anna Cesar Rodinos, Mr. & Mrs. Evangelos Dalis, Mr. John Kabel, Mr. & Mrs. Mike Scourkes, Mr. Dimitri Dembegiotes, Mr. Pantele Kades, Mr. & Mrs. Nick Sinanis, Mrs. Virginia Dres, Mr. & Mrs. William A. Korasidis, Mr. & Mrs. Vangelis Spence, Mr. & Mrs. Michael Fling, Ms. Martha Lellios, Ms. Fay Efrosini Travassaros, Ms. Frances Fossati, Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Tsacrios, Mr. & Mrs. Frank * Life Members Endowment Fund +Blessed Memory

When making out your will, please include our Saint Sophia Cathedral in you estate and financial planning March 2016 Page 5 PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS

We are proud to announce Presbytera Maria Bakas as “Mother of the Year” of our Mother’s Day Benefit Luncheon on Saturday, May 7th. The event will be held at the lovely Saint Sophia Cathedral Cultural Center. Please mark your calendars for this special event honoring a very special lady! Metropolis Philoptochos KIDS N CANCER – APRIL 10TH at Big Canyon Country Club, Newport Beach. This is an exceptional event to support the six Philoptochos Agape Camps held throughout the summer each year for children and their families afflicted with cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Mark your calendars! The “Evening with Friends” gala on February 27th , which honored all Past Presidents of Saint Sophia Philoptohos, was a great success! We extend our gratitude to those who attended the event and to our many generous donors. It was an evening to remember filled with family, friends and wonderful memories. A video and program book composed of biographies and photos of all the past presidents was a highlight of the evening. Kudos to our chairman Scarlett Billis and her committee for an extraordinary event! Philoptohos Outreach- Please help us fill the needs of our less fortunate neighbors for the Food Bank at St. Thomas Catholic Church by purchasing food items listed on grocery bags which will be distributed at church Sundays beginning on March 27th. (see flier) This is a good way to continue our journey through . Flowers will be available on for those persons homebound or convalescing. Please submit names to Christina Peratsakis at 213-716-1988 by April 17th. We are still accepting Philoptohos membership dues. Let’s get your husbands to join our group as well. We want to reach our goal of at least 200 members! Visit our table at Coffee Hour most Sundays. In Christ’s service, Judith Christopoulos, President PHILOPTOCHOS VIP

May’s big event is our Senior Citizen of the year Luncheon. We are very happy to announce that Faye and Jim Demetriou have been selected as our Senior Citizens of the Year 2016. We invite you to attend this special day for Faye and Jim, who both have served our community, in many ways and in many capacities, since their youth. In addition to honoring these loyal and generous parishioners, you will also enjoy a delicious lunch and fellowship with many friends. Please pay attention to the date Senior Citizen of the Year Luncheon, Tuesday, May 24, 2016, 11:00 AM at the Maniatakos Fellowship Hall Donation $25.00. Reservations required by May 18, 2016. Please call Mary Kezios (562) 923-7110 or Angela Ananias (562) 695-7234. Make checks payable to Philoptochos VIP. Mail to Mary Kezios,10409 Casanes Ave. Downey, CA. 90241. We look forward to seeing you there! June event is still under discussion. Look in your Herald and the Weekly communique for further information. In His service; Mersy Loukaris, VIP President Page 6 March 2016

Inner Stillness Meditation Workshop with the Prayer of the Heart, Topic: Detachment at the Huffington Center of Saint Sophia Cathedral, Monday, April 4, 2016, 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm presented by Maria Baltazzi and V. Rev. Fr. John Bakas Call 323-737-2424 for more information and registration.

Science and Orthodox Spirituality Lecture 3: Boundary of Time and Awareness of the Mind at the Huffington Center of Saint Sophia Cathedral, Wednesday, April 12, 2016, 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm Price: $20. Dinner buffet and refreshments served at 6:00 pm presented by Dr. Menas C. Kafatos, V. Rev. Fr. John Bakas and Maria Baltazzi

How can the experience of Inner Peace and Love of Orthodox Spirituality can be scientifically described? How can science, while retaining its objectivity and present day success, accept the inner realms? This is a true dialogue between the two great systems of human experience Science and Spirituality. This lecture explores the nature of time and how it binds us and limits us, but when we understand its true nature, how it can free us from our own limitations. Includes practical exercises in awareness and inner stillness to bring the reality of the objectified Laws to our everyday lives, as tools of further spiritual development and inner peace. Lecture 4 on May 11, 2016 March 2016 Page 7

Saint Sophia Cathedral Greek Orthodox Community of Los Angeles invites you to celebrate Pascha (Easter) at the 94 th Annual Greek Easter Picnic Brookside Park (at the Rose Bowl) Pasadena, CA

Easter Sunday May 1st - 1pm to 7pm

Fabulous Food and Desserts: Souvlakia, Lamb Chops, Gyro, Vegetarian dinners Baklava, Loukoumades, Galatoboureko, Kataifi Beer, Wine, Soft Drinks, Coffee, Water

Free Parking Picnic Tables Live Greek Music and Dancing Activities & for the Kids

Admission: Adults $10 Children 16 & under FREE !! Credit cards accepted at admission gate

Please note: Park will not open until 1pm.. For health and safety, no pets allowed in the park.. Page 8 March 2016 MINISTRIES

Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral Very Reverend Father John S. Bakas, Dean Jim Kollias, Choir Director Mario Lazaridis, Protopsaltis Michael Kontaxis, Assistant Psaltis Christopher Yokas, Organist James Karatsikis, Sexton

PARISH COUNCIL BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES Executive Officers Executive Officers Brent Noyes, President George E. Preonas, President Dean Peratsakis, Vice President Dr. James A. Demetriou, Vice President & C.F.O. Karen Sarames, Recording Secretary Constantine M. Boukidis, Secretary Tina Callas, Treasurer Jeanine Hanna, Corresponding Secretary Members Members V. Rev. Fr. John S. Bakas , Bertha Angels, Maria Baltazzi, Costa Bargeliotis, Timi Loomos Freshman , Alek Haidos, Steve Hanna , Peter Cosfol, Jonas Metin, Mauro Metini, Gig Kyriacou , Brent Noyes , John T. Pappas, Jim Zaferis George Rizkalla, Bill Striglos, Anna Yallourakis, Presidential Appointments Diana Wellington Anthony A. Demetriou, Presidential Assistant Chris Stavaridis and Paris Yatskar, Associates John G. Marakas III, Sr. Advisor to the Board Auditing Committee Andrew J. Demetriou, Foundation General Counsel James Ananias Anthony Demetriou Tom Moore

ALTAR BOYS HELLENIC ACADEMY PHILOPTOHOS SOCIETY Chris Halekakis Alex Oxyzoglou Executive Officers BASKETBALL John Kopatsis Judith Christopoulos , President Gig Kyriacou & Paul Cooper HOSPITALITY Jan Pastras, 1st Vice President BIBLE STUDY Niki Korbakis Connie Cooper, 2nd Vice President Very Rev. Father John Bakas Maria Pelargos Allison Stavaridis, Recording Secretary BOOK STORE L.A. GREEK FEST Marry Tassop, Corresponding Secretary William Striglos Parish Council CHILD CARE Executive Board Lola Gialketsis, Assistant Corresponding Secretary Kathy & Marsha Zagorianos MR. & MRS. CLUB Mary Galanis, Treasurer CHOIR Dean & Christine Peratsakis Scarlett Billis, Assistant Treasurer Jim Kollias ODOS “The Way” Helen Lambros Honorary Life Members COFFEE HOUR PARENTING Jennie Doumak Christine Peratis Ann Pappas Nick Stefanidis Members Georgia Vasila Barbara Kappos Dorothea Ales Frances Bissias DOCENTS PHILOPTOHOS V.I.P. Pauline Evangelatos Olga Jordan Tricia Kremer Coni Manders Angela Ananias Mersy Loukaris, President Sophie Mastor Christina Peratsakis Marianna Politis Jayne Poullos EASTER PICNIC SAINT SOPHIA CAMP Sonia Stathes Maria Toczek Ted Pappas Melanie O’Regan Virginia Noyes, Advisor GREEK DANCE GROUPS Jack Stumpus (Golf Event) Barbara Kappos Tony Mastor (Tennis Event) Mary-Kay Demetriou (Tennis ADMINISTRATIVE AND CUSTODIAL STAFF Eleni Constantine Manolelis Event) Demitra Koutsos John Kopatsis, Huffington Center Executive Director SUNDAY SCHOOL Jessica Benitez, Admin. Assist., Angela Kim, Accountant HELLENIC ENTERTAINMENT Eleni Yokas Oscar Castro, Mauricio Mira, Miguel Rosales, David Castillo COOPERATIVE YOUTH Custodians Dina Demetrius VR Father John S. Bakas March 2016 Page 9 SACRAMENTS AND MEMORIALS

MEMORIALS EPISTLE READERS March 27 April 3 March 27 Mersy Loukaris Iordanis Lelentzopoulos Michael Popoff April 3 Kris Stavropoulos Anthony N. Dres Philip Georgiouses April 10 Jonas Metin Penelope Andrew Litras - 15 years April 10 April 17 Mauro Metini Vittoria Baltazzi - 4 years Bea Papadopoulos - 10 years Alek Papadopoulos - 1 year

Saint Sophia Foundation Scholarships John S. Sakellaris Scholarship - (for College/Post-Graduate Students) Angelo L. Pappas Scholarship - (for Graduating High School Seniors) The Saint Sophia Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the creation of four $2,500 scholarships for eligible students within our community. These scholarships are offered to a graduating high school and college or post-graduate students. We have increased the amount and number of scholarships this year. These scholarships are in honor of two of the greatest leaders of our community from the San Julian church, to the founding of our Saint Sophia community up through the Community Campaign for Building Expansion. John and Angelo were true leaders, visionaries and stalwart servants on behalf of Saint Sophia Cathedral and its community. They were also the best of friends. To receive an application please contact Tina Callas by email ([email protected]) or phone (818-388-7818) or Gig Kyriacou by email ([email protected]) or phone (818-613-4412) COMPLETED APPLICATIONS DUE MAY 6, 2016

“Whatever you have done for the least of these you have done for Me.” - Jesus Lenten Love begins with offering to those in need. In our offering of God’s love, the Saint Sophia Sunday School along with the Saint Sophia Philoptochos Society, is collecting critically needed items to supply the food pantry of our next door neighbor; the Parish Church of Saint Thomas. This food pantry serves the surrounding community and is a life-line to families and seniors in our neighborhood. Please bring a grocery bag or two on or before the HOLY THURSDAY EVENING SERVICE filled with some of the critically needed items listed below (about $50-$60 worth). If you wish to make a monitory donation please stop by our table at Coffee Hour each week or donate online anytime day or night before , April 23rd at https://saintsophia2016lentfooddrive.eventbrite.com and we will do the shopping for you. Items will be delivered on Holy Friday, April 29th, During the Sunday School Retreat

□ Dry Rice, Beans, Lentils, Pastas □ Dry Boxes of Macaroni & Cheese □ Peanut Butter, Jelly or Jam □ Pasta Sauce □ Canned Vegetables □ Cooking Oil □ Oatmeal, Cereal □ Sugar □ Top Ramen noodles □ Coffee □ Variety of Baby Formula □ Canned Tuna, canned meats □ Laundry Detergent □ Bath Soap □ Tooth Paste □ Disposable Diapers Page 10 March 2016 March 2016 Page 11 LENTEN Schedule

st 8:30 AM 1 Saturday of the Souls Saturday, March 5 9:30 AM Sunday of Judgment on Love Orthros 8:15 AM Sunday, March 6 [Meatfare] Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM

nd Orthros 8:30 AM 2 Saturday of the Souls Saturday, March 12 Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM Orthros 8:15 AM Sunday of Forgiveness Sunday, March 13 Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM (With prayers of forgiveness) (Prayers of Forgiveness immediately following Liturgy) Clean Monday (Lent Begins) Monday, March 14 10:00 AM ** Service** Καθαρά Δευτέρα Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Wednesday, March 16 7:30 PM Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Friday, March 18 9:30 AM 1st Salutations to the Friday, March 18 7:30 PM

rd Orthros 8:30 AM 3 Saturday of the Souls Saturday, March 19 Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM Orthros 8:15 AM Sunday of Sunday, March 20 Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Wednesday, March 23 7:30 PM Orthros 8:30 AM Feast of the Annunciation Friday, March 25 Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM 2nd Salutations to the Theotokos Friday, March 25 7:30 PM Orthros 8:15 AM Sunday of St Gregory Palama Sunday, March 27 Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Wednesday, March 30 7:30 PM Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Friday, April 1 9:30 AM 3rd Salutations to the Theotokos Friday, April 1 7:30 PM Sunday of the Holy Cross Orthros 8:15 AM Sunday, April 3 [Marking ½ Way Through Lent] Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Wednesday, April 6 7:30 PM Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Friday, April 8 9:30 AM 4th Salutations to the Theotokos Friday, April 8 7:30 PM Orthros 8:15 AM Sunday of John Climacus Sunday, April 10 Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Wednesday, April 13 7:30 PM Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Friday, April 15 9:30 AM 5th Salutations to the Theotokos Friday, April 15 7:30 PM Orthros 8:15 AM Sunday of St Mary of Egypt Sunday, April 17 Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Wednesday, April 20 7:30 PM Pre-Sanctified Liturgy Friday, April 22 9:30 AM Orthros 8:30 AM Saturday of Lazarus Saturday , April 23 Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM Orthros 8:30 AM Palm Sunday Sunday, April 24 Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM Page 12 March 2016 Holy Week Schedule

9:30 am Pre-Sanctified Liturgy , April 25 7:30 pm Second Service of the Bridegroom , April 26 7:30 pm Third Service of the Bridegroom 9:30 am Pre-Sanctified Liturgy , April 27 3:30 pm of Holy Unction (Early Choice) 7:30 pm Sacrament of Holy Unction (Late Choice) 10:00 am Saint Basil Morning Vesperal Liturgy Holy Thursday, April 28 7:30 pm Reading of the 12 9:30 am Reading of the Royal Hours Holy Friday, April 29 3:30 pm 7:30 pm Lamentation Service 9:30 am Saint Basil Morning Vesperal Liturgy 11:00 pm The , April 30 12:00 am Resurrection Service 12:30 am Resurrectional Divine Liturgy 11:00 am Agape Service Easter Sunday, May 1 1:00 pm - 7:00 pm Pascha Picnic in Pasadena

THE THESSALONIKI EPITAPHIOS

By John Kopatsis death and burial of Christ. We are placed within the awesome From the beginning of the Church observed an mystery of the extreme humility of our suffering God. annual commemoration of the decisive and crucial three days Therefore, these days are at once days of deep gloom as well of sacred history, Holy Friday, Holy Saturday and Pascha. as watchful expectation. The Author of life is at work Holy Friday and Saturday have been observed as days of transforming death into life as it is chanted in Holy Saturday deep sorrow and strict fast from Christian antiquity. Holy Orthos: "Come, let us see our Life lying in the tomb, that he Friday and Saturday direct our attention to the trial, crucifixion, may give life to those that in their tombs lie dead.” March 2016 Page 13

The Epitaphios (Επιτάφιος) is an , most often found as a Epitaphios in, they will stop just inside the entrance to the large cloth, embroidered and often richly adorned, which is church, and hold the Epitaphios above the door, so that all used during the services of Holy Friday and Saturday in the who enter the church will pass under it (symbolically entering Orthodox Churches. The Epitaphios is also a common short into the grave with Christ. In Greek churches, the Epitaphios form of the Epitáphios Thrēnos (Ο Επιτάφιος Θρήνος) , the is then brought directly to the sanctuary, where it remains on "Lamentation upon the Grave" in Greek, which is the main the Holy Table until Ascension Thursday. part of the service of the of Holy Saturday, served in evening. The superb Thessaloniki Epitaphios liturgical cloth is a characteristic example of the art of gold embroidery during the The Epitaphios is used on the last two days of Holy Week, as Late Byzantium period that began following the sack of part of the ceremonies marking the death and resurrection of in 1204 and continued until the fall of Christ. It is then placed on the Holy Table ( table), where Byzantium in 1452. Discovered in 1900 in the modern church it remains throughout the Paschal season. Prior to the of the Panagia Panagouda in Thessaloniki, its exact place of Apokathelosis, on the afternoon of Holy Friday, the origin remains unknown, though it likely came from a major priest and will place the Epitaphios on the Holy Table. workshop in Thessaloniki. It is entirely preserved and in good Near the end of the service, the priest, accompanied by condition. On stylistic grounds—its heavy, voluminous style— with candles and incense, bring the Epitaphios in the work has been dated to around 1300. It is considered the from the Holy Table into the center of the church most significant church embroidery of that period for and place it on a table which is often richly decorated for that iconography, technique and style. It is a silk textile purpose. An elaborately carved canopy, called a kouvouklion, embroidered with silk, golden, and silver threats. The stands over the Epitaphios. On Holy Friday morning, it is substance of this technique creates a three dimensional decorated with spring flowers, mostly white, red, and purple, appearance. A band of circumscribed crosses frames the until it is covered by the flowers in its entirety. The Tomb is central rectangular panel, which is divided into three scenes: often sprinkled with flower petals and rosewater, decorated the Lamentation with Christ lying on a shroud surrounded by with candles, and ceremonially censed as a mark of respect. the Heavenly Forces (angels, cherubim, seraphim, The bells of the church are tolled, and in Orthodox countries, tetramorphs, the combination of four disparate elements in flags are lowered to half-mast. Then the priest and faithful one unit ) and the symbols of the Evangelists is in the center. venerate the Epitaphios as the choir chants . The The lateral scenes depict the Christ surrounded by angels faithful continue to visit the tomb and venerate the Epitaphios offering his flesh and blood to a group of six Apostles, to the throughout the afternoon and evening, until Matins—which is left, the wine distribution and to the right, the bread served in the evening during Holy Week, so that the largest distribution. As it is often the case, the Communion of the number of people can attend. During Matins, the Apostles is divided into two parts with two groups of six Lamentations or Praises (Ἐγκώμια) are sung before the Apostles approaching the altar, flanked by angels, and Christ Epitaphios as at the tomb of Christ, while all hold lighted officiating the sacrament. Christ is duplicated in the scene so candles. The verses of these Lamentations are interspersed as to distribute the bread and the wine on either side to each between the verses of Psalm 118 (the chanting of this psalm group of Apostles. The monumentality of the composition and forms a major part of the Orthodox funeral service). The precision in the execution connect the scenes in this Lamentations are divided into three sections called stasis, Epitaphios to monumental frescoes. The work’s closest each commonly known by its first phrase; in Greek these are: parallels are found in the frescoes of the Virgin Peribleptos (renamed Saint Clement), in Ohrid, commissioned by First stasis: "Life in the tomb" (Ἡ ζωὴ ἐν τάφῳ). Andronikos Palaiologos II. It is also associated by tradition Second stasis: "Worthy, it is" (Ἄξιον ἐστί). with Manuel Panselinos from around 1290 in the church of the Third stasis: "All the generations" (Αἱ γενεαὶ πᾶσαι). Protaton Monastery on Mount Athos and the related frescoes Near the end of Matins, during the Great Doxology, a solemn from 1303 in the pareklesion of Saint Euthymios in procession with the Epitaphios is held, with bells ringing the Thessaloniki—all of whose artists had roots in Thessaloniki. funeral toll, commemorating the burial procession of Christ. In While an Epitaphios is used today in the Orthodox Church on societies where Byzantine Christianity is traditional, the Holy Friday and Saturday, deposited upon the tomb, the uses may take extremely long routes through the in the Late Byzantine world are less known. It is inferred by streets, with processions from different parishes joining Roland Betancourt, Art History Professor in the University of together in a central location. Where this is not possible, the California in Irvine that the use of the Thessaloniki Epitaphios procession goes around the outside of the church building as would have most likely been in the context of the Great in Saint Sophia. In many Greek villages, the Epitaphios is also Entrance. He supports that in the Late Byzantine period there paraded in the cemetery, among the graves, as a covenant of was no distinction between the Aer, the large square eternal life to those who have died. In larger towns the symbolizing the sheet that was used to wrap the body of procession is led by a local marching band playing funeral Christ, and the Epitaphios. During the Great Entrance, the marches; in some cities the Epitaphios is escorted by military Thessaloniki Epitaphios would be carried on two or more detachments, their arms in the (muzzle towards the ’ heads, as depicted in a fresco in the Church of Saint ground) position. Anthony in Vrontisi, Crete and as recounted by writings of that At the end of the procession, the Epitaphios is brought back period in the description of the same process in his the to the church. Sometimes, after the carry the Patriarchal Entrance at Agia Sophia in Constantinople Page 14 March 2016

MARCH 2016 Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

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1st Saturday of the Souls

8:30am Orthros 9:30am Divine Liturgy

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Judgment Sunday 2nd Saturday of

8:15am Orthros the Souls 9:15am Faith Studies 10:30am 8:30am Orthros 9:45am Memorials 9:30am Divine Bible Study w/Fr. 10am Divine Liturgy John Liturgy

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Forgiveness Sunday Pre-Sanctified 3rd Saturday of 8:15am Orthros Liturgy 9:30 am the Souls

9:15am Faith Studies Clean Monday 10:30am 1st Salutations 8:30am Orthros 9:45am Memorials 10am Compline Bible Study w/Fr. Pre-Sanctified to the Theotokos 9:30am Divine

10am Divine Liturgy Service John Liturgy 7:30 pm 7:30 pm Liturgy 25 20 21 22 23 24 26

Sunday of Feast of the

Orthodoxy Annunciation 8:30am Orthros 8:15am Orthros 9:30am Div. Liturgy 9:15am Faith Studies 10:30am 2nd Salutations to 9:45am Memorials Bible Study w/Fr. Pre-Sanctified the Theotokos 10am Divine Liturgy John Liturgy 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

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Sunday of Saint

Gregory Palamas

8:15am Orthros 9:15am Faith Studies 10:30am 9:45am Memorials Bible Study w/Fr. Pre-Sanctified 10am Divine Liturgy John Liturgy 7:30 pm Strict Fast Fish Allowed Wine and Oil Dairy, Eggs, Fast Free Allowed and Fish Allowed

March 2016 Page 15

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Pre-Sanctified

Liturgy 9:30 am 3rdSalutations to the Theotokos 7:30 pm

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Sunday of the

Holy Cross Pre-Sanctified

8:15am Orthros Liturgy 9:30 am

9:15am Faith Studies 10:30am 4thSalutations to 9:45am Memorials Bible Study w/Fr. Pre-Sanctified the Theotokos 10am Divine Liturgy John Liturgy 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

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Sunday of Saint John Climacus Pre-Sanctified 8:15am Orthros Liturgy 9:30 am

9:15am Faith Studies 10:30am 5thSalutations to

9:45am Memorials Bible Study w/Fr. Pre-Sanctified the Theotokos 10am Divine Liturgy John Liturgy 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

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Sunday of Mary Of Saturday of Egypt Lazarus 8:15am Orthros 9:15am Faith Studies 8:30am Orthros 9:45am Memorials Pre-Sanctified Pre-Sanctified 9:30am Liturgy 10am Divine Liturgy Liturgy 7:30 pm Liturgy 9:30 am

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Palm Sunday Holy Monday Holy Tuesday Holy Wednesday Holy Thursday Holy Friday Holy Saturday 8:15am Orthros 9:15am Faith Studies For the Holy Week Schedule Please 10am Divine Liturgy See Page 12 7:30pm 1st Service of the Bridegroom

May 1 Strict Fast Fish Allowed Wine and Oil Dairy, Eggs, Fast Free Allowed and Fish Great and Holy Allowed Pascha 11:00am Agape Service 1:00pm Pascha Picnic in Pasadena

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Chemist and microbiologist renowned for his discoveries of the principles of vaccination, microbial fermentation and pasteurization. December 27, 1822 – September 28, 1895