The Voice of the Greek Community The Voice of theSEP/OCT Greek Community 2020 1

CELEBRATING CHARLOTTE’S GREEK COMMUNITY NEWS AND HISTORY

VOL. 80 HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CATHEDRAL 600 EAST BLVD 704-334-4771 SEP/OCT 2020 NO. 05 https://www.facebook.com/HolyTrinityGreekOrthodoxCathedralCharlotte/ CHARLOTTE, NC 28203 www.htgo.org

The fi rst ever “No Festival” Changes take shape. As part of the renovations to the interior of the Cathedral that includes Yiasou Festival Issue refurbished pews, new fl ooring and carpeting, the chanters stand and choir have been combined. of The Voice The organ and music stands have been relocated next to the ’s throne on the right.

The Holy Trinity delegates TONSURING OF ACOLYTES report from:

September 9 & 10, 2020

November 8, 2020: AXIOS! XRONIA POLLA! Seven faithful acolytes were tonsured by His Grace Bishop Sebastian. The acolytes were tonsured as readers. Congratulations to: Athanasius and Vasileios Blathras, James Vastis, Demetrios and Vasileios Katsanos, and James and Theodore Harakas

Our Vision INSIDE THIS ISSUE.... With the Grace of God, to provide a loving and Father Vasileios 3 caring Community where all belong to Christ, through worship, sacramental life, everyday Father Jonathan 4

spiritual discipline, sanctifi cation, education, Clergy - Congress 6-7

CHARLOTTE, NC 28203 NC CHARLOTTE, witness and fellowship. 600 EAST BOULEVARD EAST 600 Stewardship Committee 8

Our Mission Around Charlottetown 9

Permit No. 871 No. Permit is to become faithful followers of Christ and thus Philoptochos 9

Charlotte, NC Charlotte, active Greek Orthodox Christians by accepting and PaId submitting to the Will of our Lord so that we may In Memoriam 10

U.S. Postage U.S. realize salvation and enter into the Kingdom of Non-profi t Organization t Non-profi St. Hermione Home 11 God. 2 SEP/OCT 2020 The Voice of the Greek Community

THE EdITOR’S NOTE by George Zogzas CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Dear Readers: Sunday Nov 15 The Nativity Fast and 40 days of Liturgies begin. CELEBRATING CHARLOTTE’S GREEK COMMUNITY NEWS AND HISTORY Welcome back. If you did not know HOLY TRINITY GREEK that we have past the start of autumn, (see bulletins and website for maybe it is because our community service times) ORTHOdOX CaTHEdRaL was without its offi cial notice that fall 600 East Boulevard is just around the corner. For the fi rst Sunday Nov 15 Parish Assembly Charlotte, NC 28203 time in over 40 years, Holy Trinity did Conducted in person in Fr. C 704-334-4771 not hold the Yiasou Greek Festival. Hall and virtually via Zoom www.htgo.org The pandemic that has so severely Video Conferencing The Voice is the bimonthly altered our daily lives since mid-March publication about Holy Trinity, its stopped one of the Charlotte area’s parishioners, their faith, and the most popular events. As disappointed Friday Nov 20 Vigil for the Feast of the community as many of us are, there are maybe ten times that many of our 7:00PM Vespers Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple Charlotte neighbors that are sad that they could not partake of 8:00PM Orthros the wonderful foods, educational and cultural events that make 9:00PM Liturgy THE VOICE STaFF: Yiasou so special and anticipated. Hopefully, 2021 will see a George Zogzas, Editor return of the Festival to Charlotte. George Andrews, Business Manager Sunday Nov 22 Sunday School Liturgy in The Archdiocese of America held its biennial Clergy – Laity Frances Zogzas, Copy Editor Congress in a new and diff erent way this year. On September 9 Fr. C Hall and 10, the fi rst all virtual Clergy – Laity was held for almost CLERGY: 1200 delegates. I was one of four delegates selected to attend Thursday Nov 26 Church Offi ce closed for the Fr. Vasileios Tsourlis, Cathedral Dean and on behalf of Holy Trinity. You can see our report on pages 6-7. and Thanksgiving Holiday Vicar of the Northeast Conference Many of our ministries are awakening after the forced Friday Nov 27 Fr. Dr. Jonathan Mettasophia, shutdown of the past 7 months. As they get back to speed, we are Associate & Youth happy to chronicle their activities in The Voice. If your ministry Fr. Christian Siskos, REMINdER: has not used this paper to spread the word about its mission and Associate Priest and Youth Director activities, please reach out to us at the email address below. We To attend any services, use the sign up link Fr. George Politis, would love to feature you. provided in emails or call the Cathedral Offi ce at Thanks for reading and see you next time. 704-334-4771 to save your spot. They are happy to CaTHEdRaL STaFF: GZ [email protected] help you reserve a seat. Kathy Xyrafakis, Offi ce Secretary Frances Zogzas, Financial Secretary (PT) Angelo Tatsis, Building Assistant (PT) Larry Peroulas, Greek School Director Kakouras Family Dentistry Cindy Balatsias, Preschool Co-Director Cosmetic & General Dentistry for Today’s Family Maria Kleto, Preschool Co-Director Tommy Kakouras DMD, PA * Melissa Helms DDS Irina Monzolevskaya, Organist 11020 S. Tryon St. Ste 401 * Charlotte, NC Dimitri Petropoulos, Chanter 704-504-8070 www.KakourasFamilyDentistry.com 2020 PaRISH COUNCIL (term ends):  Comfortable State-of-the-Art Dentistry  Peridontal Disease Screening Peter Thomopoulos (21) President  Nirtous Sedation  Oral Cancer Screening George T. Karres (20) Vice President  Zoom 1 Hour Power Whitening  Children’s Dentistry  Back Massage Chairs  Digital X-Rays (90% Radiation Vaki Karampourniotis (22) Secretary Reduction) Mitch Christenbury (20) Asst Secretary It’s the people are talking about Experience John Tsumas (21) Treasurer Google us at KakourasFamilyDentistry.com Andre Harakas (21) Asst Treasurer COUNCIL MEMBERS: Drew Dudley (22), Elias Elia (22) Maria Kotrotsios(20) John Mahairas (21) Nick X. Nixon (21), Nick Pistolis (20) Lucy Pappadakes (22) Gus Pappas (20) Roula Skenteris (22)

THE VOICE Advertising Rates Rates are for ads in six issues. Rates are subject to change ad Size B&W Color * 2 1/2” X 5” $275.00 $300.00 Next Issue: NOV/dEC 2020 5” X 5” $500.00 $550.00 dEadLINES: 7 1/2” X 5” $750.00 $825.00 for articles or photographs is: 5” X 10” $950.00 $1,050.00 Friday, december 18, 2020 7 1/2” X 10” $1,425.00 $1,550.00 Photos should be in large format Ad Size applies to portrait or landscape .JPEG attachment (300 dpi min.) orientation. * Color ads on back page only. for advertisements is: We also off er assistance with ad design. Contact George Andrews at 704.364.7224, Monday, december 7, 2020 [email protected] or send an Email to [email protected] email to [email protected] Use adVERTISE in the subject line. The Voice of the Greek Community SEP/OCT 2020 3

REFLECTIONS FROM things are possible to him who be- Too often, our prayer tries order to keenly direct our appetite THE PULPIT lieves” (v.23). The man responds to pull God over to our plan. It’s on the Bread of Life, Jesus Christ with tears, “Lord, I believe, help not “Your will be done,” but “my Himself. We must not deny our my unbelief” (v.24). The father will be done,” and “I know best.” hunger and thirst for the Lord. acknowledges his own lesser faith That’s why we get frustrated and Each day, each hour, each minute, and asks for help to have greater angry when we don’t get what we each second, we must draw the faith. The father of the boy does want. Or we look to someone or living water of the Spirit from the not say, “Is there anyone else something else for fulfillment. Be- well of prayer. Each Sunday and here who can save my boy?” cause, we think we’re entitled, we during the weekday Liturgies, we Now, unfortunately Jesus’ deserve something, or something must receive Christ in the Eucha- words have often been misinter- is owed to us. We’re not entitled rist as food for eternal life. preted to mean that we can have to anything in this life. Whatever, After Jesus heals the boy, by Father Vasileios Tsourlis whatever we want as long as we we get is a gift from God and we after all the healings and miracles Dean of the Cathedral and have faith in Him. In that sense, need to acknowledge it by saying He did, Christ tells His disciples, Vicar of the NE Conference prayer becomes informing God thanks. “I’m dead.” In verse 31, “The A man fell off a cliff and what we want, when we want it God is not in the “busi- Son of Man is being betrayed into at the last minute, as he was fall- and how we want it. This approach ness” of making sure that every- the hands of sinful men, and they ing, he grabbed hold of a shrubby to God is often known as the one gets bodily health or stays will kill Him.” In other words, my bush. As he dangled in space he “prosperity gospel” or the “name it healthy. If He was, there would not earthly life is ending. I’m letting was filled with terror and called and claim it gospel.” be any martyrs because their death go of the shrubby bush on the out toward heaven, “Is there any- We Orthodox Christians would be anathema to His pur- cliff. Why? Because it is what My one up there?” A calm, powerful should know that prayer is the fun- pose. Instead, God is here to help Father wants and wills. Something voice came out of the sky saying, damental seeking of the true God, us every day to save our souls. greater and more perfect lies be- “Yes, there is.” The man pleaded, the Holy Trinity, in order to know However, He can only do this for yond (or below or above depend- “Can you help me?” The calm His will, in order to do His will. In those who want to be saved. Our ing on how you look at it). Christ voice replied, “Yes, I can. Simply prayer, we ask from God what we eternal life with God in heaven af- says, “After He is killed, He will let loose of the bush and every- believe He wants to give us and ter this earthly life depends on His rise on the third day” (v.31). We thing will turn out fine.” There in fact, is already giving us. When will being done, not our will being will rise too if we pray, fast and was a tense pause, then the man we pray and profess the Nicene done. Our primary job is to unite believe. yelled, “Is there anyone else up Creed, we say, “I believe –Piste- our will with His will. The people Seen from this perspective, there?” vo.” This is not just an intellectual pray during the worship service, “I believe Lord, help my unbelief” We may laugh at this story acknowledgement that God exists. “Lord, have mercy” and “Amen.” can be understood differently. It is because of its innocence, but I bet This belief must be a deep, abiding These are ways of saying, “We to say, “I want Lord, but help me we have all been in a similar situ- trust and hope in everything that want what You want God!” want what You want.” And help me ation. How often, when we’re in a the one God is and everything He So, God’s will for us may thank You for whatever You give difficult, fearful predicament, do teaches and commands. be to let go of that shrubby bush me because I know it’s for the best. we first cry out to God? And if and You may think now “why on the cliff as a test of our faith. Here at Holy Trinity we when we ask for His help, God did God allow this pandemic or How can we be sure that we know have many Ministries for all ages tells us to do something even more Cancer or an accidental death God’s will and have the courage to and interests. The reason is be- scary, like letting go of that bush or some other tragedy?” Is this follow it? First, remember that the cause we the Clergy together with which represents our last earthly happening because that person’s demons in our life will try to keep the Parish Council and the Min- hope. In every circumstance of prayer, or the people praying for us mute. In other words, they want istry Heads believe that it will be life God is asking us to move from that person, did not have enough to prevent us from praying. They easier for you to feel closer to God lesser faith to greater faith in Him. faith or ran out of faith? Did God want to convulse us with anger by doing what you love doing for He is saying, “Keep putting more abandon that person and forget and resentment when our insa- His glory. We are here to help you trust in Me and I can help you.” about us? Of course, the answer is tiable appetite for worldly things is and not to judge you. We love you. This dynamic is expressed NO. God never abandons anyone. not satisfied. They want to destroy by few people in the Bible. For And everything that happens to us, our hope with the fiery waters of In the Love and Service of our example, the father of the demon- happens for a reason. We must be- evil and suffering. Second, remem- Lord, possessed boy in the Gospel of lieve this. Often times, it’s how we ber that Jesus’ disciples could not Mark 9:17-32. When the father respond to the adversities and cri- cast out the boy’s demons because Editor’s note This is a a reprint from ses of our life that build or destroy prayer and fasting are required October 24, 2020 Saturday Evening brings his son to Jesus in order Spiritual Message to cast-out the demon, Jesus says our character and our faith. “I (v.29). Fasting helps wean us from to him, “If you can believe, all believe Lord, help my unbelief.” earthly pleasures and passions in 4 SEP/OCT 2020 The Voice of the Greek Community

PSaLMS aNd THE LIFE OF FaITH by Rev. Dr. Jonathan Mettasophia, Associate and Youth Priest

Beloved brothers and sisters, Eucharist. This is the central practice of our Orthodox and warm my heart with your love. Christian faith. This is where all our other practices I rely not on human protection, but fall down fi nd meaning. This year has been a before you, O Most Pure Sovereign Mother paradoxical mix of slow and Now that we are able to attend the — of God; reject me not, but hearken unto the fast. We have been waiting albeit with some restrictions on capacity—and receive prayer of your servant. Sadness has overcome for what seems like an eternity the Eucharist, we must make every eff ort to do so. me; I can endure the demonic attack no more. to return to some semblance Watching a live-stream can off er some encouragement, I have no protection; there is no shelter for this of normalcy. We have hoped but we need communal worship. Deprived of this, now poor man, and in this battle, I am ever being and prayed that this we have that we again have access to it, we will fi nd that our wounded. I have no consolation, but in you, O not entered into a new, long- spiritual life is not what it can be. Yes, we have to be Holy Sovereign. O Hope and Protection of all lasting, standard. At the same self-motivated—by divine inspiration, really—to live who believe, reject not my prayer. time, the days, weeks, and our life of faith with intentionality and authenticity. O Most Holy Mother of Christ, Most Pure, months, of the same have We need to perform all of the practices of our faith— Most Blessed Theotokos, Satan is pounding undoubtedly felt like a blending together so much so communal worship, personal prayer, fasting, reading at me like the waves of the sea against a ship, that it seems like a blur. It all seems the same. We might the Scriptures and lives of the saints, caring for those pursuing me by day and tormenting me at night. ask, how has it been so long? How has so much time in need. We need to live our life of faith. I have no peace; turbulent is my soul, my spirit passed, yet with so little diff erent? I am a fi rm believer that if we live faithfully, if we trembles. Hearken, O Most Holy One and help Needless to say, this likely has had an impact on truly practice our faith, if we are intentional about our me. Intercede before the dear Lord that He may our well-being—physical, emotional, and spiritual. spiritual lives, then we will be more balanced in other have mercy on me and forgive the sins I have Physically, we have led a sedentary life—at least areas of our lives—like emotional and physical well- committed. O Most Holy Mother of Jesus, your relative to what we were used to before. We might be being. In these times, when we are still in the midst of grace is great, and the mightiest opponent to the venturing out more than a couple of months ago, but great uncertainty and prolonged diffi culty, we need to powers of Hades. You are able to save even the perhaps we are not as active as we once were. We might make our faith a priority. God must come fi rst and last greatest of sinners who, having been cast into be eating poorer—or more—out of convenience or and in the middle. Our relationship with God must be the depths of hell by unclean powers, should call perhaps for comfort—something that speaks to the need the foundation upon which we build our whole life. upon you. So too, save me, for lo, Satan will have to be ever-vigilant about our emotional well-being. me stumble and will destroy my faith, but I trust in the Lord. I magnify you, Who art more holy The reality is that we might be having strong As we navigate this time, I wanted to share a prayer than the Cherubim and the Seraphim. emotions. We might be angry, fearful, anxious, or sad. as a means of encouragement: These very real feelings, may blend together leaving us feeling depressed or despondent. From this place Amen. we can lash out, become divisive, or factious. It can Prayer of Saint Bishop Nikolaj (Velimirovic) make us isolate in the midst of our mandated distancing. to the Most-Holy Theotokos This can lead us to feel lonely, spiraling in greater and Waves of passion disturb my spirit, great greater emotional pain. This can also lead us to lose sadness and anguish have overwhelmed my soul. annual Community Christmas Card motivation. Embalm my soul with your Son’s peace, O Most december 1st is the deadline to Our lack of motivation can lead us to wane in Holy One, and by His Grace drive away every doubt and despair. Calm the storm of my sins participate. It is a great way to extend other areas—none more detrimental to our lives than your Christmas greetings to everyone. our lack of spiritual enthusiasm. We have, of course, that, like a fi ery worm, burn me, and quench its suff ered the diffi culties that came with the restrictions fl ame. fill my heart with joy, O Most pure One, Please mail in your envelope with on church services. We were unable to attend for many and disperse the fog of my iniquities before me, donation or place it in the Narthex months—painful especially was to not be able to attend for it confuses me. Illumine me with the light of candle slot when you come to Church. your Son. Helpless is my soul, and everything during Great Lent, Holy Week, and Pascha. Yes, we Contact the Church offi ce at have online capabilities, but the reality is that we are is cumbersome, even prayer. Here I am, cold as not the Church by watching services online. We are a stone, my lips whispering prayers, while my 7 04-334-4771 if you have questions. the Church when we come together to celebrate the heart remains immovable, for it is smothered in anguish. Melt the ice which envelops my soul

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STEWARDSHIP 2020 Parish Council President’S COMMENTARY AS OF 11/4/20 by Peter Thomopoulos YTD FINANCIALS as of 11/4/20 Amount Stewardship Collections $ 526,401 We have all ourselves why we have such challenges. Other Income (candle, rentals, etc.) $ 94,588 heard the cliché However, I suggest we shift our focus Building Fund donations $ 232,158 to “expect the to spend more time determining what Minus : Operating Expenses $ (800,273) unexpected”. we’re going to do about it. How do Minus : Building Fund expenses $ (215,219) There’s nothing we, as self-professing Christians, deal NET DEFICIT $ (162,345) like a pandemic with this adversity. How do we elevate to put pause in ourselves to find unity with our brothers Please send your pledge/donations to the office BY DECEMBER 31st for it to get your mind and and sisters in Christ, to show our love into your 2020 statement. Anything received after that date will go into 2021 actually ponder and respect for one another? Are we reports. Call the Church office if you do not remember how much you had pledged this saying. How so confident in our opinions, beliefs or have given so far. THANK YOU for your support! impossible it is and actions that we cannot accept an 2020 Income and Expenses by month to actually act on alternative view? Or do we take pause $200,000 this phrase and and self-reflect and acknowledge that

$150,000 yet as business owners, parents, leaders we and our opinions could possibly be and stewards of our church, we must flawed? We are a very large community $100,000 endeavor to do just that. We must with vastly different backgrounds, $50,000 take action to be prepared for the beliefs and opinions. In the face of

$0 unexpected! In my over 30 years at all our differences we can, without Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Holy Trinity, I couldn’t fathom that question, find just as many similarities. Income Expenses we would cancel our beloved festival If we truly commit to our faith, we Financial donations can be made: completely. I could wrap my head can learn to put love, compassion and • On-line Bill Pay - your bank can set up free one-time, weekly, or monthly recurring payments. around it being impacted by weather. empathy at the forefront of our minds This has no fees for the Church either. I could even wrap my head around and recognize we are all striving for the • Church Website - select the "Give Now" button on htgo.org and follow the prompts to set up a delay or rescheduling of the event. same goal. payments. You can fill out your Stewardship form here also. But in all my wildest dreams, I never We are all planning and preparing for • In Church - use the white envelopes provided in Narthex, but you must write your full name imagined we would be in a prolonged if leaving cash. If using check, please make out to Holy Trinity but write "stewardship" or the unexpected time of our inevitable pandemic (spanning seven months and passing unto the Lord. The very practice "memorial" or "candles", etc. on the bottom left line on check. counting) that would upend or alter • In Church Office - call to let us know you are coming by the church office to give Frances or of our faith is to grow closer to God Kathy your donations anytime Monday-Friday 9am - 5pm. every planned event. And yet here we so that we may be ready for death. are. To be frank we were unprepared. It's not important how much you give. Only that you do your best to give to God's work While we are certain of our impending according to what he has given you and that you give from your heart and not grudgingly or We did not have an emergency plan. death the time isn’t known. We’ve of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver. We did not build enough financial lost a number of our beloved friends contingency to withstand a complete and family this year to various causes cancellation of the festival. (including Covid). I’m confident many Despite the stresses, perhaps the of these deaths were unexpected. So, most distressing aspect of this year let us honor their memory by shifting and this pandemic, is how it has shined our focus to how we can unite. Let’s all a light on how poorly we address our reflect on how to best apply the many personal differences. These differences talents we have and commit to spending showcase themselves in multiple the time to continuing our mission. Let’s forms. We have those that push for use focus on how we can best do our part of masks and social distancing during to strengthen the connections that bind services and limitations to our various us. For strengthening these bonds will planned gatherings. At the same time, strengthen our church, our community we have those that argue we shouldn’t and our connection to God. So, we may be forced to wear masks and should be ready for the unexpected. open up without restriction. We have had members thanking our parish leaders for imposing measures they I’ll leave you with two questions. To view as appropriate to maintain a safe be clear, the answer to the first question place for them to worship. We have is NOT to simply cut a check. also had people cursing us and even leaving the community in protest. We 1. Do you know what is expected of you have members that have heard the call as a member of Holy Trinity Cathedral? and stepped up to give their time, talents 2. Are your spiritual needs being met? and treasures. At the same time, we continue to have a portion of members that remain disengaged and unwilling to If the answer is no to either one, then offer themselves to the church. we have much more work to do. If you answered either of them as no, you can Unfortunately, these differences find comfort that you’re not alone. I are not new for our community. I also encourage you to start the discussions expect that we’ll continue to witness with our clergy or any of the parish these differences in the future, albeit council members as I expect we have for different reasons. We can spend much more work to do and we need a lot of time discussing and asking your participation to improve. 6 SEP/OCT 2020 The Voice of the Greek Community

THE 45TH BIENNIAL CLERGY - LAITY CONFERENCE by the Delegates

“If I speak with tongues of mortals and of Angels – but have no love – I would be no more than the clatter of clanging metal, or at best a sounding cymbal. And if I have the gift of prophecy and I know all mysteries and possess all knowledge; even if I possess the whole of faith so as to move mountains – but I have no love – I am nothing! Even if I give away all my possessions to feed the hungry; even if I surrender my body to be burned – but have no love – it does me no good. So we commence, Beloved in the Lord, with the one virtue, the one grace, the one charisma that is truly needful – αγάπη!” With those remarks to the Keynote Address, His difference in dignity between people.” (The Mission of Clergy – Laity Congress. Notable was the return to a Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros welcomed the the Orthodox Church in the Contemporary World, V.1) more solid financial footing at the Archdiocese with (a) th almost 1200 registered delegates to the 45 Biennial Afterwards, the delegates had their choice of breakout the payment of past due amounts totaling $5.7 million Clergy-Laity Congress. It was the first all virtual sessions on multiple topics. Those sessions included: to contractors and creditors of the St. Nicholas Shrine conference ever held with the largest number of 1) Internet Ministries; 2) Religious Education; 3) Youth so that construction could resume; (b) amounts due delegates ever. And, as the Archbishop later said, the and Young Adult Ministries; 4) Stewardship, Outreach, to the Pension Plan are current for the first time since last all virtual Clergy-Laity conference. He enumerated and Evangelism; 5) Church Music; 6) Inter-Orthodox 2006; and (c) increased funding to the Hellenic College/ three top priority topics: (1) Saint Nicholas Greek Ecumenical & Interfaith Relations Department; 7) Holy Cross (HCHC) has begun. Orthodox Church and National Shrine; (2) the clergy Youth Safety; 8) Center for Family Care; and 9) Greek and lay pension plan underfunding, and (3) Holy Cross Education. Our four delegates (Father Jonathan, Nick ADMINISTRATION School of Theology (HCHC). Kallelis, Peter Thomopoulos, George Zogzas) agreed Judge B. Theodore Bozonelis, Secretary of the to attend different sessions to broaden our exposure. The Administration Committee session began at Archdiocesan Council, moderated the opening session Each of these sessions ran for about 90 minutes, was 6:00PM on September 9, pushed back by one hour introducing speakers and setting expectations for how led by a speaker(s) and included a Q&A session for because of the length of the Finance Committee session. the Congress would operate during the two days. the participants to ask specific questions related to the Administration is chaired by Mr. Constantine Caras with His Eminence Metropolitan Evangelos (New The Congress was to be held in Cleveland, Ohio in topic. The breakout sessions were recorded and are available on the Clergy-Laity website (https://gateway. Jersey) as presiding hierarch. Mr. Tsougarakis served early summer before the Covid-19 pandemic forced as parliamentarian. the cancellation of those plans. Fortunately, the rapid on24.com/wcc/eh/2397736/clergy-laity-2020) and do advancements in video conferencing necessitated not require a registered login to view. Just like the Finance Committee, Administration was by the virus lockdowns, made it possible for the directed to consider only business needed to continue the operations of the Archdiocese. This committee Archdiocese to prepare a virtual meeting place for over FINANCE COMMITTEE 1200 participants held on two days, September 9 and presented three emergency regulations: 10. The Congress was hosted on a technology platform The Finance Committee session began at 1:45PM Motion on three proposed amendments to the UPR created by ON24. on September 9 and was open only to the registered (Uniform Parish Regulations). delegates. The committee is chaired by Mr. Lazaros A videotaped welcome message from His All (Lou) Kircos and the presiding hierarch is Metropolitan Motion to postpone 2020 elections for Parish Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew continued the Nicholas (Chicago). The parliamentarian for the Council membership in all Parishes of the Archdiocese message of the importance of αγάπη. He stated, “And meeting is Mr. George Tsougarakis, Archdiocesan for twelve months. In 2021 elections, parishioners the Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church General Counsel. elected to positions so affected shall be entitled to a that convened in Crete (June 2016) emphatically two year term of service. After opening comments and a review of instructions promoted the social message of Orthodoxy and ‘the Motion to adopt the Resolution from the Direct supreme value of the human person: The Orthodox for participating in this meeting, the delegates were informed that the decision was made earlier this summer Archdiocesan District (DAD) concerning changes to Church confesses that every human being, regardless of the Total Commitment program is hereby directed to the skin color, religion, race, sex, ethnicity, and language, to limit the meeting agenda to only the most immediate financial and other business needed for continued Archdiocesan Administration Committee for studied is created in the image and likeness of God, and enjoys consideration, analysis, and recommendations. equal rights in society. Consistent with this belief, the operation of the Archdiocese and Metropolises. The committee’s decisions would be forwarded to the Orthodox Church rejects discrimination for any of The delegates heard the Treasurer’s report which the aforementioned reasons, since these presuppose a recapped developments in the two years since the 2018 continued on next page

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Committed to building relationships The Voice of the Greek Community SEP/OCT 2020 7

THE 45TH BIENNIaL CLERGY - LaITY CONFERENCE by the Delegates entire Congress at the Plenary Session scheduled for underfunded by approximately $65 million. That The Finance Committee report followed with a the next day for action by the entire Congress. means the accrued obligations payable to participants presentation of the proposed two year budget for exceeds the value of the assets by that amount. These 2021 and 2022. Notable was that the 2021 budget shortages are exacerbated by (1) no monthly funding called for Total Commitment to remain unchanged PENSION PLAN INFORMATION by GOA, Inc. before 2006 and (2) 91 of 508 parishes from 2020 and that the increase for 2022 be limited to The Pension Plan meeting began at 7:00PM on in the Archdiocese of America are not contributing to 2%. The proposal also maintained sustained funding September 9. In addition to pension payments to retired the pension plan. Mercer’s primary recommendation to for the pension plan and for support for HCHC. After clergy, the plan also provides payments for LTD (long- eliminate this defi cit is by contributions of $1.5 million considerable discussion, including many questions, the term disability), and life insurance. per year for the next 20 years. Congress approved the two year budget. A few facts presented about the pension plan: The Audit Committee reported that policies and * It is mandatory for to participate and to be PLENARY SESSION procedures are being drafted and implemented. Once covered. completed, they will be available to all parishes as a The Plenary Session of the Congress was scheduled model to use locally. * Plan participants must make contributions to the plan. to occur in two sessions. The fi rst began 12:00 Noon The Congress then passed several resolutions by * Non-specifi ed contributions are to be made by the on Thursday September 10. It was moderated by Judge unanimous consent. parishes and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese (GOA, Bozonelis. Inc.) of America The first report was from the Administration * Employer contributions from GOA, Inc. Committee. The report stated that the proposed CLOSE amendments to the Uniform Parish Regulations Currently, administration costs of the fund run 28% His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros concluded (UPR) while important, did not meet the defi nition of of the contributions with 72% going into pension plan the Plenary session with thanks to the delegates and emergency action and were tabled. The Congress did investments. participants, encouraging all that “In Peace, let us go emphatically support the proposal to allow parishes forth”. He announced that the 46th Biennial Clergy- Following a review and report by Mercer (a leading to postpone 2020 elections for 12 months (89 For v. Laity Congress will be held in New York City in 2022. compensation and benefi ts organization), it is estimated 11% Against). The session ended just before 9:00PM ET. that as of December 31, 2019, this pension plan is

Nick Kallelis’ delegate notes: As co-chair of the Stewardship Committee at Holy Trinity, I was particularly interested in hearing about developments at other parishes and the Archdiocese about this important topic. Here are a few points that I found helpful and plan to explore further: 1. Encourage parents to involve children in church. 2. Convey to young adults that we need help. 3. Invite young adults to attend Parish Council meetings. 4. Telos Project Fr. Jonathan’s specialty. https://www.telospop.org 5. Young adults are learning fi nance and technology. Find ways to use these talents. 6. On-line giving is a preferred method. Studies show there is an increase of 32% using this method. The service charges should not deter this method. 7. Only 20% of mailed material is read. Emails are read, but not as good as texting. Texts get instant returns. 8. Hold an event as soon as the church opens. 9. OCF (Orthodox Christian Fellowship) needs to fi nd new ways and creative thinking to get more involvement from young people.

Courtyard Pavers We will be placing a paver engraving order on Monday, November 30th. If you would like to purchase an inscribed paver at this time, please get your order form to us by Friday, November 20th.

This gives us time to create your layout and get your approval. It may be another 6 months or so before we send another order, so please hurry! Call the Church offi ce at 704-334-4771 with any questions. If you haven’t been by the Church in the past six months, you haven’t seen the beautiful new pavers in the courtyard, under the covered walkway. Please stop by to see them! 8 SEP/OCT 2020 The Voice of the Greek Community

STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE by Nick and Carmen Kallelis FROM THE CHOIR LOFT by Olga Yamalis

LOOK FORWARD, NOT BACK On the weekend that would If you haven’t visited the Archbishop Elpidophoros opened the Clergy/Laity Council in September have been our Yiasou Festival, a National Forum website, check it 2020 with a statement “Always look forward and not back”. As Orthodox few of our HTC choir members out at http://churchmusic.goarch. Christians we should forgive past situations that were troublesome or participated in the 44th annual org. The website was upgraded problems. meeting of the National Forum, with several great resources after Taking the Archbishop’s advice, we should concentrate on the future and Friday, Sept. 11 - Monday, Sept. this year’s annual meeting. how we can constructively accomplish God’s work. 14. This year’s conference took -- Want to hear a beautiful and Many situations may have troubled us when certain concerns arose or place virtually on Zoom Video ® uplifting Divine Liturgy? The decisions were made with which we did not agree. All these concerns are for four days with ten sessions. National Forum’s Electronic things of the past and we should not look back and hold them in a way which It set a record for attendance! Media Committee launched a will influence our future actions. We should look forward as to how we can More than 60 National Forum SoundCloud library filled with improve upon our past experiences. Always look forward and not back. stewards with representation of liturgical music recordings from the eight metropolis federations various Diocese events over Many decisions are made and we do not have the facts surrounding the (Archdiocesan, Atlanta, Boston, decision. Rather than being disgruntled about a past decision, we need the past 40 years. Go to the Chicago, Denver, Detroit, New Home page and click on ‘Follow to look forward as to how we can be more transparent and communicate Jersey and San Francisco) along better. Look forward and not back. us on Soundcloud’ towards the with a few clergy advisors all middle where the many wonderful If we have been treated in a way that we feel slighted, it is only natural came together to hold this annual choices of both choral and chant to be offended initially. To look back and hold a grudge does not resolve event. The National Forum is selections await. the matter. Look ahead as to how the situation can be resolved. We have the musical arm of the Greek a Forgiveness Sunday when we ask to be forgiven for any offenses we Orthodox Archdiocese of America -- Want to hear the joyful sound personally created. We should also have a daily forgiveness for people we that strengthens and perpetuates of youth voices? Go to the Home feel we need to forgive. What a better world we would have. Let’s look the liturgical music in both Page and choose the tab labelled forward and not back. choral and chant styles of music. Resources and choose ‘Hymn for The annual Kids’ on the drop down arrow. There will be a time when we will all return to our beloved Holy Trinity. It will open Wouldn’t it be rewarding, after seeing the repairs of the pews, flooring, and meeting is the time to provide to the page of other structural problems, we realize the cathedral is more beautiful, without Hymn-Singing questioning the need for this expense? Let’s look forward and not back. officer reports, present for Young We are in a period of financial need. Many parishioners have made committee People. This contributions above their planned yearly giving. Many have not responded reports, plan page serves to the needs. There are many reasons why individuals are not in a position for the future, as fantastic to give. They may be helping by volunteering. We shouldn’t neglect our reflect on resource filled responsibilities based upon our opinion of others. Therefore, if a situation members lost, with links for that has been troubling you leads you to not support the church, then it is brainstorm, interactive time to look forward and not back. reunite with videos for Our church leadership has provided opportunities, virtually and in- one another, Sunday School person, to stay involved with the Divine Liturgy and other services, embark on Teachers certain ministries and numerous programs. All this was accomplished by latest trends, and parents the dedication of our clergy, the Parish Council, office staff, and many and fill/vote teaching our volunteers. This is one situation where we should look back and thank all on positions. youth some who made it possible; then look ahead as to how we can all support Holy This year we of the major Trinity in accomplishing the church’s Vision. “Our vision, with the Grace vowed to not liturgical of God, is to provide a loving and caring Community where all belong to have our church musicians just hymns of our feast days. Here Christ, through worship, sacramental life, everyday spiritual discipline, stay idle during this pandemic, is also the recent, amazing sanctification, education, witness and fellowship.” What a glorious future but plan to come out of this crisis recording from our very own Lucy we have at Holy Trinity! Let’s look forward and not back! stronger than ever with the help of Pappadakes with youth voices the tools, resources and musical from Virginia singing “Soson experts within this group. This Kyrie Ton Laon Sou/Save O Lord year’s annual meeting was also Your People”. exciting because our very own --The Home page also has a link Think about this . . . HTC choir director and National to the National Forum Facebook Brethren, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, Forum Publications Chair, Lucy page and to the Orthodox goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such there is no Pappadakes, was one of three Marketplace. law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with candidates nominated for the Upon conclusion of this year’s its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the office of National Chairman. Spirit. Let us have no self-conceit, no provoking of one another, no envy annual meeting, we’ve come out Lucy’s Biography and Letters of enthusiastic with our committees of one another. Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who Support can be seen by visiting are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Look to yourself, and projects not only to educate http://churchmusic.goarch.org/ our current church musicians, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law organization/annual_meeting/. of Christ. but to advance ourselves to Upon conclusion of the four days cultivate a new generation of from St. Paul’s Letter to the Galatians 5:22-26; 6:1-2 of the conference, the election church musicians. Currently, we results were announced that the are overcoming the pandemic new National Chairman of the challenges and we’ve begun National Forum is Nick Chimitris. offering more short duration He is the President of the Chicago Zoom ® sessions and weekly Advertise your business in The Voice Federation and choir director mini-series with composers and for 40 years-- 35 years with choir directors on vocalizing Email us at SS. Constantine & Helen in and new music. Attendance of Merrillville, IN and 5 years with participants has been tremendous. [email protected] St. Demetrios in Hammond, IN. We will come out of this crisis Congratulations is still in order to stronger and better than before. Lucy for being nominated to this Use ADVERTISE in the subject line, or contact honored position and for being recognized for her service to the George Andrews at [email protected] church music ministry. The Voice of the Greek Community SEP/OCT 2020 9

AROUND CHARLOTTETOWN by Kathy Xyrafakis SUN DAY SCHOOL by Elizabeth Raby

Kondilis - Coggins Our Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, though this Sunday School year has begun quite differently than previous years due to the effects of Covid-19, we are grateful to still be able to offer alternative plans and resources for our youth. For our younger students in Kindergarten-6th grades, emails are being sent weekly to parents of registered students and include podcast lessons, discussion topics and related activities. While there aren’t live classes for this age group, we hope parents and students will take advantage of the resources and will spend some dedicated time learning about and discussing the Parables of Christ each week. We are holding virtual ZOOM ® Video meetings for our 7th-12th graders weekly on Sundays. The schedule is as follows: 7th-8th: 1:00-1:45 with Deacon George Politis 9th-10th: 1:00-1:45 with Drew Dudley 11th-12th: 2:00-2:45 with Vaki Karampourniotis and John Shelton If you have not done so already, please register your children for the 2020-2021 Sunday School Year using the following link: http://app. campdoc.com/register/htgoc. This will ensure that you will receive all Sunday School communications and materials. Thank you for your support Katina Cristen Kondilis and Boyd Wayne Coggins, III were married on and participation, and feel free to reach out to us with any questions at Sunday, September 27, 2020. The wedding ceremony took place at Holy [email protected] Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Katina is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steve Gus Kondilis. Boyd is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Boyd Wayne Coggins, Jr. The bride and groom hosted guests at a reception following the ceremony PHILOPTOCHOS by Pam Bostian at The Belle Crane Inn, Fort Mill, SC. After a honeymoon trip to Turks and Caicos, the couple will reside in Charlotte. As we continue to cope with COVID-19 we pray you and your families are in good health and staying safe. Over the past few months, our Philoptochos chapter held an executive Siamou - Tarr board meeting and general meeting via video conference. The Philoptochos Board agreed to donate: $300 to IOCC, $1,000 to the Weekend Bags/ Methodist Church, $500 to Sacks of Hope and $500 to InReach. An Artoklasia service for the Feast Day of the Patron Saint of our Philoptochos chapter, Agia Elpis, was held on Thursday, September 17th.

Save the Date! 2020 Holiday Bake Sale November 2, 2020: Order form and payment deadline; Order(s) can be placed online @ https://htgo.org/holiday-bake-sale or Order form with payment can be mailed to: Agia Elpis Philoptochos Society, 600 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203. Make check payable to “Agia Elpis Philoptochos Society”. For questions, please contact Cathy at: [email protected] November 9 (starting 10:00 am): Preparation November 10 - 12 (starting 10:00 am): Making and Baking Order Pickup from the Church on: Sunday, Nov 22; Saturday, Dec 5; Sunday, Dec 6 (12:00 - 2:00 PM)

Afroditi Siamou and Gregory Tarr were married at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral on Saturday, September 19, 2020. Afroditi is the daughter of Elefteria Sklavenitis and Evangelos Siamos. Gregory is the son of Pamela Tarr. The guests attended a reception after the ceremony at the Pine Lake Country Club, Mint Hill, NC. The couple honeymooned in Florida before returning to reside in Charlotte. 10 SEP/OCT 2020 The Voice of the Greek Community

st 11:00 AM on Monday, the 21 of Ronnie R. Pourlos, of Charlotte, SONS OF PERICLES In Memoriam September, 2020 at Holy Trinity NC. She leaves many other nieces, Greek Orthodox Cathedral. The nephews, and cousins. by frank Boardman funeral service followed at 11:00 Private funeral services were held On October 4th, our Victory Chapter AM. Burial followed in Evergreen with family members. Cemetery. hosted the Sons of Pericles Fall Classic at Emerald Lake Golf Club. The tournament welcomed chapter Christina Pistolis (1935 – 2020) Rosemarie “Rosie” anderson members as well as guests from the Moustakas (1928 – 2020) Christina Pistolis, 85, of Charlotte, area. With 13 teams participating NC, passed away peacefully on and several spectators, we had over Rosemarie “Rosie” Anderson Sunday, the 27th of September, 60 people in attendance. Half of all Moustakas of Jackson Heights, NY, 2020. She was born in Xelidona, proceeds were donated to the charity formerly of Charlotte, NC, died Greece to the late Konstatinos “Feed the Children.” Thank you to all peacefully in her sleep on Thursday of the golfers and sponsors for your th and Fotini Groumbas. After her morning the 17 of September, retirement from the Lance Corp., support! We look forward to future 2020, in New York City. she enjoyed gardening and spending tournaments and to continuing to Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection Rosie, as she was aff ectionately time with her family. Christina support our local charities! and the life. He who believes in Me, known, was born in Canton, Ohio. was a member of Holy Trinity though he may die, he shall live. And She was the daughter of Anageros Greek Orthodox Cathedral. She whoever lives and believes in Me shall and Ourania Anderson. Rosie grew is survived by her two daughters: never die.” John 11:25 up in Charlotte, in the Dilworth Maria Kondilis and husband, John neighborhood She was a member and Georgia Pistolis Sialmas and John Gregory, Sr. (1951 – 2020) of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox husband, Pete; a sister, Vasiliki Cathedral, where she attended John Gregory, Sr., 69, of Tsiantis of Xedidona, Greece; her Sunday School and afternoon Greek grandchildren: Chris and Nikoletta Lincolnton, North Carolina, passed School. She was a member of Estia away on Monday, the 14th of Kondilis, Roula and Tasos Makkas, Girl’s Club and active with news Mike and Tina Kondilis and Kristina September 2020 at Novant Health and publication. – Main. and Seraphim Sialmas and six great grandchildren. In addition to her th In her early years, Rosie worked He was born on the 11 of January, at Anderson’s Restaurant, until her parents she was preceded in death 1951 in Igoumenitsa, Greece, oldest marriage to John Moustakas of by her husband, Serafi m and her October 4, 2020: sOp offi cerathan of two sons, to the late Spyridonas New York City in 1958. She was a son, George Mike Pistolis. spirou, father Jonathan, and offi cer Tsapukoglou and Anastasia Petridis member of the Transfi guration of John shelton at the fall Classic. photo Tsapukoglou. Funeral Services were private Christ Greek Orthodox Church in at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox courtesy of Angelo Pete Politis. John is survived by his beloved Corona, NY. Cathedral. wife of thirty-seven years, Mariann Rosemarie was preceded in Gregory; their four children: Spiro death by her husband, parents, LONG’S MONUMENT COMPANY Tsapukoglou and his wife, Valanto; brothers: William, Jimmie, Peter, 3016 N. GRAHAM STREET John Gregory, Jr.; Elaine Gregory and a brother-in-law Kosta and CHARLOTTE, N.C. 28206 and Phillip Gregory and his wife, wife, Georgia Moustakas. She is Eleni; one granddaughter, Eleni survived by two sons: William PHONE:704-376-5740 Tsapukoglou; one brother, Alex and Kosta; three grand-children: WEBSITE:longsmonument.com Tsapukoglou and his wife, Sylvia Kristen, Jonathan, and Ariana; EMAIL:[email protected] and a number of aunts, uncles, nephew Billy K. Moustakas; niece cousins, nieces and nephews in the Lana Manetto; sisters: Marion A. MONUMENTS, MARKERS, & MAUSOLEUMS United States and Greece. Gulas of Lookout Mountain, TN, SERVING THE GREEK COMMUNITY fOR OVeR 50 YeaRs. The Gregory family greeted and Bett A. Kofi nas; sister-in-law, We WORk fOR THOse WHO LOVe aND ReMeMBeR friends from 10:00 AM until Aphroula K. Anderson; and cousin,

DRAFT1 COPY 2018.09.17 The Voice of the Greek Community SEP/OCT 2020 11

The St. Hermione Home: a 2,000 Year Old Tradition Continues as reported by The Orthodox Observer Online Edition

October 7, 2020: Clergy assist His eminence at the Groundbreaking of the st. Hermione Home in Charlotte, NC. pictured, L-R: fr. Nektarios karantonis (st. Nektarios), fr. Jonathan, fr. Vasileios, Metropolitan alexios, Rev. Dr. paul Tsahakis (st. Nektarios), fr. Robert Lawrence (st. Luke, Mooresville), fr. Constantine shepherd (annunciation, Winston salem), and Mr. Jim keown (altar server at st. Nektarios).

The inspiration for the St. Hermione Home comes nurturing environment for pregnant women aff ected with the expectation of welcoming the fi rst residents from the actual life of St. Hermione, one of the very by homelessness. Additionally, SHH will off er spiritual later that year. fi rst Holy Unmercenary Saints in the Orthodox Church support, vocational training with an emphasis on The Holy Icon of St Hermione that depicts both who lived in the fi rst century AD. The daughter of computer skills, parenting classes, as well as adoption her original house of healing on her right, as well as St. Phillip the Deacon, St. Hermione was trained in services. the proposed home here in Charlotte on her left, was the medical arts. After accepting the admonition our SHH is excited to announce a partnership with painted by our very own Sister Emily (Couchell) of Lord Jesus Christ outlined in Matthew 25 to care for Shelter Health Services (SHS) located at the Salvation the Holy Dormition Monastery in Rives Junction, the “Least,” St. Hermione purchased a home and Army’s Center of Hope. SHS provides free medical Michigan. This Holy Image will greet all who enter established both a medical clinic as well as lodging care to all residents of the Center of Hope Shelter and SHH, and will serve as a visible reminder that one has for the poor, the stranger, and the homeless. There will provide both pre- and post- natal care to residents entered a consecrated space set apart from “this world.” she healed all who came to her with illnesses of both of SHH. This association with SHS is a continuation The Board of Directors of SHH are Fr. Paul Tsahakis, body and soul. Like all of the Holy Unmercenary of the fi rmly established relationship with the Holy Saints, St. Hermione never accepted payment for her Mrs. Faye Couchell, Dr. Dennis Kokenes, and Mr. Unmercenary Medical Society (HUMS), a Ministry Petros Petrou. Inquiries regarding SHH can be made to: miraculous healings and off erings. She, as well as all of the Holy Metropolis of Atlanta, whose members of these special Unmercenary Saints, attributed these provide regular free medical/dental care. St. Hermione Home, Inc. miracles to the Power of Jesus Christ, in whose Name P.O. Box 79177 these Saints healed. While SHH is being developed as an independent 501c3 tax exempt entity, our beloved Metropolitan Charlotte, NC 28271 After contemplating the life of St. Hermione, Alexios has designated it as a Ministry of our inspiration arose to emulate her ministry in Charlotte, God Protected Holy Metropolis of Atlanta. Actual https://www.goarch.org/-/st-hermione-home-2020 NC, thus, “The St. Hermione Home” (SHH) is construction of the home will begin by early 2021, taking form. Its mission is to provide a loving and 12 SEP/OCT 2020 The Voice of the Greek Community

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