Sunday, January 9, 2022

News from Mat. Raisa Strelnizki

After suffering a fall on Christmas Day, our dear Matushka was briefly hospitalized and then transferred to Bell Trace for rehabilitation.  She is doing well, but the date of her release is unsure. If anyone would like to send a note of encouragement to our beloved 102 sister in Christ, here is her contact information:

MAT. RAISA STRELNIZKI

BELL TRACE REHAB – RM 124-B

725 BELL TRACE CIRCLE

BLOOMINGTON, IN 47408

Sunday after the Theophany of Christ

Martyr Polyeuktos of Armenia; Venerable Eustratios the Wonderworker;

New-martyr Parthenas; Philip, Metropolitan of Moscow

Thought for Today“Let us be satisfied simply with what sustains our present life, not with what pampers it.” + St. Maximos the Confessor

Junior SOYO Performance: The children of Junior SOYO will perform a riveting Nativity play on Sunday during coffee hour. All are welcome to attend. Parents, please bring your young thespians to the church by 3 o’clock on Saturday for rehearsal.

New Offering Envelopes are available: You may continue using old ones if you choose.

2022 Church Calendars!

The new church calendars are complete and available in the hallway at church. The calendars are absolutely beautiful, thanks to the work of Darryl Jones and Marcia Baldwin (and to others who contributed photos). 

Warm Mittens, gloves, hats and scarves can find their first home in the big box in the hallway. Cathy Alexander will then take them during the cold winter months to local schools for distribution to needy children. Please donate as you are able.

THIS WEEK

Wednesday, January 12: Daily Vespers at 6:00      

Saturday, January 15: Adult Bible Study at the Webb’s home – 9:00 – 10:30

(3960 E Fenbrook Lane, Bloomington, 47401) Contact Rhonda for more information in person or at webbrk1@gmail.com 314-313-4275

Saturday, January 15: Great Vespers at 5:00; Jr. SOYO at 3:00; Sr. SOYO at 6:00

Sunday, January 16: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00  – Annual Meeting follows.

LOOKING AHEAD

House Blessings

January 16th: Annual business meeting.

Everyone is invited to attend, but voting for council selection is reserved

for members-in-good-standing age 18 and older.

Orthodoxy 101 will resume  in mid-January.

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS

The Reading is from St. Paul’s Epistle to the Ephesians. (4:7-13)

 (For the Sunday after Theophany of Christ)

Let Thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us. Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous.

Brethren, grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.  Therefore, it is said, “When He ascended on high He led a host of captives, and He gave gifts to men.”  (In saying, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that He had also descended into the lower parts of the earth?  He who descended is He who also ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.)  And His gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.

The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew. (4:12-17)

 (For the Sunday after Theophany of Christ)

At that time, when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulon and Naphtali, so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “The land of Zebulon and the land of Naphtali, toward the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.” From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand.”

DIVINE LITURGY VARIABLES for CHOIR and PARISH

Second Antiphon

Refrain: Save us, O Son of God, Who wast baptized by John in the Jordan;

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 4

Having learned the joyful message of the Resurrection from the angel the women disciples of the Lord cast from them their parental condemnation. And proudly broke the news to the Disciples, saying: Death hath been spoiled; Christ God is risen, granting the world Great Mercy.

Apolytikion of the Theophany of Christ – Tone 1

When Thou, O Lord, wast baptized in the Jordan, worship of the Trinity wast made manifest; for the voice of the Father bore witness to Thee, calling Thee His beloved Son. And the Spirit in the likeness of a dove confirmed the truth of His word. O Christ our God, Who hast appeared and enlightened the world, glory to Thee.

Kontakion of the Theophany of Christ – Tone 4

On this day Thou hast appeared * unto the whole world, * and Thy light, O Sovereign Lord, * is signed on us who sing Thy praise * and chant with knowledge: Thou hast now come, * Thou hast appeared, O Thou Light unapproachable.

FAMILY NEWS

Receiving the Eucharist: We invite you to receive the Holy Eucharist if you are an Orthodox Christian who has prepared yourself through fasting, prayer, and recent confession.  If you are not Orthodox, or are Orthodox but  have not prepared, we invite you to receive a piece of the blessed bread.

Birthday Celebrations: Luke B (9th); Hal S (9th); Jeremy P (12th); Sarah C – 13th); Rachel Barber (14th)

Name Day Prayers: Gregory G (St. Gregory of Nyssa – 10th); Sarah C (St. Tatiana – 12th); Amanda S (St. Agnes – 14th); April B (St. Macrina – 14th); Nina G (St. Nina – 14th); Nina R (St. Nina – 14th)

Memory Eternal: Catherine; Bobby (Max’s uncle); Tate; Geni Gritton, Tony, Byron (Ian’s twin brother)

Prayer List: Steve Crandall (Matt’s father); Adrian and Marah Polit;Jake Immimk;  Fr. Athanasius Wilson; Jack;Christopher; Tornado victims; Covid-19 resurgence; refugees  and immigrants; our nation and nation’s leaders at all levels of government; schools: school children, youth and personnel across the nation; Nancy; April; Don; Vicki; Mat. Raisa; Ingrid, Fr. Jerome; Catherine; Awanda  Michael; Anastasia with child; Bonnie Thelen; Wadia; Jayci; Dee, Patricia, Marvin, Alice; Michael; Olga; Eileen; Soren; Kitsa; Apthrodite and Angelos; Kim; Dusty, Cari; Betsy, Josh; Allison;  Andrew and Isaac (Korea/military); Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Emma; Lexi, Ross and Vivian; Theo; Doug; Jeremy; Marcia & Deacon; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy

Donations to the church are being made online at www.allsaintsbloomington.org and by U.S mail.  Many thanks to all who continue supporting All Saints.

Sunday, January 2, 2022

Please note the UPDATE for Jr. SOYO on January 1st. (Below)

Forefeast of & Sunday before Theophany of Christ

Sylvester, Pope of Rome; Cosmas the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Constantinople;
Repose of Venerable Seraphim of Sarov

Thought for Today“We must become and manifest the icon of God, the restored beauty in our own lives, in our families, in our Churches, in our communities and in our Nation.” 

+  His Eminence, Metropolitan JOSEPH

We are in a fast-free period until Wednesday, January 5, which is a strict fast day in preparation for the feast of Holy Theophany (Epiphany). Theophany, which literally means revelation of God, is when God was first revealed as Father, Son and Holy Spirit at the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River.

Junior SOYO Update: Junior SOYO will exchange names for their secret friend gift exchange and make plans for the Nativity pageant this Saturday, January 1st at 4 o’clock.
They will perform the pageant NEXT weekend, so parents, breathe a small sigh of relief, and if you would like for your children to participate, please have them to the church at 4 o’clock on Saturday.

New Offering Envelopes are available: You may continue using old ones if you choose.

Pantry Needs: Marinara sauce and packaged mac/cheese boxes are needed.

Warm Mittens, gloves, hats and scarves can find their first home in the big box in the hallway. Cathy Alexander will then take them during the cold winter months to local schools for distribution to needy children. Please donate as you are able.

Adult Bible Study resumes January 8 at the Webb’s home, 3960 E Fenbrook Lane, Bloomington, 47401. Contact Rhonda for more information in person or at webbrk1@gmail.com 314-313-4275

THIS WEEK

Theophany Services

Wednesday, January 5: Royal Hours of Theophany at 9:00 am

Wednesday, January 5: Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil the Great at 4:30  am     

Thursday, January 6:     Matins, Divine Liturgy of Theophany and the Great Blessing of the Waters at 9:00 am  

Saturday, January 8: Adult Bible Study at the Webb’s home – 9:00 – 10:30

Saturday, January 8: Great Vespers at 5:00; Jr. SOYO at 4:00; Sr. SOYO at 6:00

Sunday, January 9: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00  

LOOKING AHEAD

House Blessings

January 16th: Annual business meeting

Orthodoxy 101 will resume  in mid-January.

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS

The Reading is from St. Paul’s Second Epistle to St. Timothy. (4:5-8)

(For the Sunday before the Theophany of Christ)

O Lord, save Thy people and bless Thine inheritance. Unto Thee will I cry, O Lord my God.

            Timothy, my son, always be steady, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. For I am already on the point of being sacrificed; the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved His appearing.

The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Mark. (1:1-8)

 (For the Sunday before the Theophany of Christ)

The beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in Isaiah the prophet, “Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, who shall prepare thy way; the voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” John the Baptizer appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And there went out to him all the country of Judea, and all the people of Jerusalem; and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, and had a leather girdle around his waist, and ate locusts and wild honey. And he preached, saying, “After me comes He Who is mightier than I, the strap of Whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water; but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

Receiving the Eucharist: We invite you to receive the Holy Eucharist if you are an Orthodox Christian who has prepared yourself through fasting, prayer, and recent confession.  If you are not Orthodox, or are Orthodox but  have not prepared, we invite you to receive a piece of the blessed bread

DIVINE LITURGY VARIABLES for CHOIR and PARISH

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 3

Let the heavens rejoice and the earth be glad, for the Lord hath done a mighty act with His own arm. He hath trampled down death by death, and become the first-born from the dead. He hath delivered us from the depths of Hades, granting the world the Great Mercy.

Apolytikion of the Forefeast of Theophany – Tone 4

Be thou ready, Zebulon; prepare thyself, O Nephthalim. * River Jordan, stay thy course and skip for gladness to receive * the Sovereign Master, Who cometh now to be baptized. * O Adam, be thou glad with our first mother, Eve; * hide not as ye did of old in Paradise. * Seeing you naked, He hath appeared now * to clothe you in the first robe again. * Christ hath appeared, for He truly willeth to renew all creation.

Kontakion of the Forefeast of Theophany – Tone 4

In the running waters of * the Jordan River, * on this day the Lord of all * crieth to John: Be not afraid * and hesitate not to baptize Me, * for I am come to save Adam, the first-formed man.

FAMILY NEWS

Anniversary Blessings: Darryl & Nancy J (4th)

Birthday Celebrations: Emily W – 3rd; John A (5th); Coran K (5th); Charles C (8th)

Name Day Prayers: St. Seraphim of Sarov (2nd): Linda B, Leanne B, Neumann J; Juliana B (St. Juliana – 2nd); Emily W (St. Emilia – 3rd); Johanna H (St. Emilia – 3rd); Jennifer R (St. Genevieve – 3rd); Micah F (Micah the Prophet5th); Synaxis of St. John the Baptist – 7th); John A, John L, Brian O

Memory Eternal: Catherine; Bobby (Max’s uncle); Tate; Geni Gritton, Tony, Byron (Ian’s twin brother)

Prayer List: Steve Crandall (Matt’s father); Adrian and Marah ;Jake Immimk Fr. Athanasius Wilson; Jack;Christopher; Tornado victims; Covid-19 resurgence; refugees  and immigrants; our nation and nation’s leaders at all levels of government; schools: school children, youth and personnel across the nation; Nancy; April; Don; Vicki; Mat. Raisa; Ingrid, Fr. Jerome; Catherine; Awanda  Michael; Anastasia with child; Bonnie Thelen; Wadia; Jayci; Dee, Patricia, Marvin, Alice; Michael; Olga; Eileen; Soren; Kitsa; Apthrodite and Angelos; Kim; Dusty, Cari; Betsy, Josh; Allison;  Andrew and Isaac (Korea/military); Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Emma; Lexi, Ross and Vivian; Theo; Doug; Jeremy; Marcia & Deacon; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy

Christmas Services & Sunday, December 26, 2021

Friday: Royal Hours of Christmas at 9am

Friday: Christmas Eve Vesperal Liturgy at 4pm

Saturday: Matins and Divine Liturgy of Christmas at 9am

Sunday, December 26, 2021

Synaxis of the Most Holy Theotokos &

Sunday after the Nativity of Christ

Commemoration of Joseph the Betrothed, David the Prophet and King,

 and James the brother of God

Thought for Today: “Christ is Born! Glorify Him!”

Junior SOYO Announcements: All children aged 5-12 are invited to participate in a secret friend Christmas gift exchange which will take place on Sunday, JANUARY 2.  Gifts can be homemade or purchased, but should remain under $15.  In addition, the children are working to put together a Nativity play which they hope to perform on the 9th day of Christmas (1/2/22).  If you would not like to have your child participate in either the gift exchange or the play, please contact Khouria Kristina ASAP.  Otherwise, your child will receive the name of another child in the parish on Sunday.  

Warm Mittens, gloves, hats and scarves can find their first home in the big box in the hallway. Cathy Alexander will then take them during the cold winter months to local schools for distribution to needy children. Please donate as you are able.

Teen SOYO Diaper Drive has been a success! Thanks for all your contributions. 

Pantry Needs: Marinara sauce and packaged mac/cheese boxes are needed.

Adult Bible Study at the Webb’s home resumes January 8.

Orthodoxy 101 will resume  in mid-January.

THIS WEEK

Wednesday, December 29: Daily Vespersat 6:00; Ask Abouna.  

Saturday, January 1: Great Vespers at 5:00

Sunday, January 2: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00  

We are in a fast-free period until Wednesday, January 5, which is a strict fast day in preparation for the feast of Holy Theophany (Epiphany). Theophany, which literally means revelation of God, is when God was first revealed as Father, Son and Holy Spirit at the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River.

LOOKING AHEAD

January 1st: Circumcision of our Lord

January 6th: Theophany

House Blessings

January 16th: Annual business meeting

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS

The Reading is from St. Paul’s Epistle to the Galatians. (1:11-19)

(For the Sunday after Nativity of Christ)

God is wondrous in His saints. In the churches, bless ye God.

Brethren, I would have you know that the Gospel, which was preached by me, is not man’s gospel.  For I did not receive it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ.  For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the Church of God violently and tried to destroy it; and I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people; so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers.  But when He who had set me apart before I was born, and had called me through His grace, was pleased to reveal His Son to me, in order that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia; and again I returned to Damascus.  Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas, and remained with him fifteen days.  But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother.

The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew. (2:13-23)

 (For the Sunday after Nativity of Christ)

When the wise men had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the Child and His mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the Child, to destroy Him.”  And he rose and took the Child and His mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod.  This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt have I called My Son.”  Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, was in a furious rage, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region, who were two years old or under, according to the time which he had ascertained from the wise men.  Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: “A voice was heard in Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be consoled, because they were no more.”  But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Rise, take the Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the Child’s life are dead.”  And he rose and took the Child and His mother, and went to the land of Israel.  But when he heard that Archelaus reigned over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee.  And he went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, “He shall be called a Nazarene.”

Receiving the Eucharist: We invite you to receive the Holy Eucharist if you are an Orthodox Christian who has prepared yourself through fasting, prayer, and recent confession.  If you are not Orthodox, or are Orthodox but  have not prepared, we invite you to receive a piece of the blessed bread.

DIVINE LITURGY VARIABLES for CHOIR and PARISH

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 2

When Thou didst submit Thyself unto death, O Thou deathless and immortal One, then Thou didst destroy hell with Thy Godly power. And when Thou didst raise the dead from beneath the earth, all the powers of Heaven did cry aloud unto Thee: O Christ, Thou giver of life, glory to Thee.

Apolytikion of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 4

Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath given rise to the light of knowledge in the world; for they that worshipped the stars did learn there from to worship Thee, O Sun of justice, and to know that from the east of the Highest Thou didst come. O Lord, glory to Thee.

Apolytikion  of the Sunday after the Nativity – Tone 2

Proclaim, O Joseph, to David, the grandparent of God, the amazing wonders; for thou hast seen a Virgin great with child; for with the shepherds thou didst give glory, with the Magi thou didst worship, and by the angel it was revealed to thee. Wherefore, plead thou with Christ God to save our souls.

Kontakion of the  Nativity of Christ – Tone 3

On this day the Virgin beareth the Transcendent in Essence; * to the Unapproachable, * the earth doth offer a small cave; * Angels join in choir with shepherds * in giving glory; * with a star the Magi travel upon their journey; * for our sakes is born a young Child, * He Who existed * before the ages as God.

Megalynarion of the Synaxis – Tone 1

Magnify, O my soul, her that hath delivered us from the curse.

Being well content, out of fear, to be silent would be easier, since silence hath no danger. O Virgin, it is hard to compose hymns with love framed in harmony, but we pray thee, O Mother: Do thou grant us strength as great as our volition.

Koinonikon (Communion Hymn) of the Nativity of Christ – Tone 8

The Lord hath sent redemption to His people. Alleluia.

FAMILY NEWS

New Offering Envelopes are available: You may continue using old ones if you choose.

Anniversary Blessings: Robert & Nina Rogers (26th)

Birthday Celebrations: Amanda A- Smith (26th); Molly A (31st);

Nancy J (31st); Lina T (1st)

Memory Eternal: Barb; Catherine; Bobby (Max’s uncle); Tate

Prayer List: Steve Crandall (Matt’s father); Adrian and Marah Polit;Jake Immimk (hospitalized); Fr. Athanasius Wilson; Jack;Christopher; Tornado victims; Covid-19 resurgence; refugees  and immigrants; our nation and nation’s leaders at all levels of government; schools: school children, youth and personnel across the nation; Nancy; April; Don; Vicki; Mat. Raisa; Ingrid, Fr. Jerome; Catherine; Awanda  Michael; Anastasia with child; Bonnie Thelen; Wadia; Jayci; Dee, Patricia, Marvin, Alice; Michael; Olga; Eileen; Soren; Kitsa; Apthrodite and Angelos; Kim; Dusty, Cari; Betsy, Josh; Allison;  Andrew and Isaac

(Korea/military); Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Emma; Lexi, Ross and Vivian; Theo; Doug; Jeremy; Marcia & Deacon; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy

Sunday, December 19, 2021 and Christmas Schedule

Sunday before the Nativity of Christ (The Genealogy)

Martyrs Boniface and Aglaïs of Rome; Boniface the merciful, Bishop of Ferentino in Tuscany;

Martyrs Eutychios and Thessalonica and their companions

Thought for Today: “Upon awakening from sleep – an image of the awakening from the dead, which awaits all – direct your thoughts to God, offering up to Him the first-thoughts of your mind, which has not yet become imprinted with any vain impressions whatsoever.”

+ St. Ignatius Brianchaninov

Welcome: Today Naomi (Ruth) Burhoe, Melissa (Martha) Barbarick and son Casey (Sergius) are being chrismated. Abigail, infant daughter of Catherine and Lance Cowan, is being baptized. May God grant them many years!

Tornado Relief: Due to the generosity of the All Saints faithful, we were able to send $3,500 for tornado relief in Kentucky.

Warm Mittens, gloves, hats and scarves can find their first home in the big box in the hallway. Cathy Alexander will then take them during the cold winter months to local schools for distribution to needy children. Please donate as you are able.

St. Nicholas Tree: Continuing our local tradition, we encourage you to place gift cards on a small tree in the fellowship hall. Fr. Peter Jon will then give the cards to families who need help during this Christmas season. Cards from Kroger, Sam’s/Walmart and other local merchants as well as gas cards are always helpful. God loves a cheerful giver!

Annual Calendar: The calendar details are being updated now.If your information was not on this year’s calendar or was incorrect, please email Marcia at lbald3368@aol.com or leave a note on her desk. We print dates for anniversaries, birthdays, and name days.

THIS WEEK

Wednesday, December 22: Daily Vespersat 6:00; Ask Abouna.  O101 will resume in early 2022.

Friday, December 24: Royal Hours of Christmas at 9am – Christmas Eve Day

Friday, December 24: Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil at 4pm – Christmas Eve Day

Saturday, December 25: Matins and Divine Liturgy at 9am – Christmas Day; (There will be no Great Vespers or SOYO Saturday evening)

Sunday, December 26: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00  

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS

The Reading is from St. Paul’s Epistle to the Hebrews. (11:9-10, 32-40)

 (For the Sunday before the Nativity)

Blessed are Thou, O Lord, the God of our fathers.

For Thou art just in all that Thou hast done to us.

Brethren, by faith Abraham sojourned in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked forward to the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets—who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, received promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched raging fire, escaped the edge of the sword, won strength out of weakness, became mighty in war, and put foreign armies to flight. Women received their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, so that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and scourging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, ill-treated—of whom the world was not worthy—wandering over deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And all these, though well attested by their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had foreseen something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.

The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew. (1:1-25)

 (For the Sunday before the Nativity: “The Genealogy”)

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.  Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Aram, and Aram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David the king.  And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa, and Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amon, and Amon the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon.  And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, Who is called Christ.  So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ were fourteen generations.  Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way.  When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly.  But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call His Name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”  All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and His Name shall be called Emmanuel” (which means, God with us).  When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called His Name Jesus.

Receiving the Eucharist: We invite you to receive the Holy Eucharist if you are an Orthodox Christian who has prepared yourself through fasting, prayer, and recent confession.  If you are not Orthodox, or are Orthodox but  have not prepared, we invite you to receive a piece of the blessed bread.

DIVINE LITURGY VARIABLES for CHOIR and PARISH

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 1

While the stone was sealed by the Jews, and the soldiers were guarding Thy most pure body, Thou didst arise on the third day, O Savior, granting life to the world. For which cause the heavenly powers cried aloud unto Thee, O giver of life. Glory to Thy Resurrection O Christ, glory to Thy kingdom, glory to Thy providence, O Thou Who alone art the lover of mankind.

Apolytikion of the Sunday before the Nativity – Tone 2

Great are the accomplishments of faith; for the three holy youths rejoiced in the fountain of flames as though at waters of rest. And the Prophet Daniel appeared a shepherd to the lions as though they were sheep. Wherefore, by their prayers, O Christ God, save our souls.

Kontakion of Preparation of Christ’s Nativity – Tone 3

The Virgin cometh today, to the cave to give birth, ineffably to bring forth the Word Eternal. Therefore, rejoice O Earth, at the message. With the angels and shepherds give glory to Him Who shall appear  by His own will, as a young child, He Who is from eternity God!

FAMILY NEWS

Teen SOYO Diaper Drive nears the finish line at Christmas! 

The Nativity Fast: Tomorrow, December 20, as we enter the five-day Forefestal period of the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ, we observe the traditional fasting discipline: no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine and oil. Katalysis (allowance) for wine and oil is made only on Saturday and Sunday.

Anniversary Blessings: Phil & Deborah C (23rd)

Birthday Celebrations: Laura C(20th); Griffin F (21st); Jonathan H (22nd); Alexandra S (22nd); Nicholas S (22nd)

Name Day Blessings: Elijah G (St. Boniface – 19th); Juliana B (St. Juliana – 21st); Chris S (Christmas Day)

Memory Eternal: Lois; Richard; Barb; Catherine ‘Amy’ McCormick; Bobby (Max’s uncle); Tate

 Prayer List: Adrian and Marah Polit;Jake Immimk (hospitalized); Fr. Athanasius Wilson; Jack;Christopher; Tornado victims; Covid-19 resurgence; refugees  and immigrants; our nation and nation’s leaders at all levels of government; schools: school children, youth and personnel across the nation; Nancy; April; Don; Vicki; Mat. Raisa;; Ingrid, Fr. Jerome; Catherine;Awanda; Anastasia with child; Bonnie Thelen; Wadia; Jayci; Dee, Patricia, Marvin, Alice; Michael; Olga; Eileen; Soren; Kitsa; Apthrodite and Angelos; Kim; Dusty, Cari; Betsy, Josh; Allison;  Andrew and Isaac (            Korea/military); Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Emma; Lexi, Ross and Vivian; Theo; Doug; Jeremy; Marcia & Deacon; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy

Sunday, December 12, 2021

Sunday of the Forefathers (Ancestors) of Christ

Spyridon, Bishop of Trimythous, the Wonderworker

John, Metropolitan of Zichnon; Hieromartyr Alexander, Archbishop of Jerusalem

Nativity Fast

Thought for Today: “Forget your good deeds as soon as possible… Do not record your good deeds, for if you record them they will soon fade. But if you forget them, they will be written in eternity.” + St. Nicholai Velimirovitc

Annual Calendar: If your information was not on this year’s calendar or was incorrect, please email Marcia at lbald3368@aol.com or leave a note on her desk. We print dates for anniversaries, birthdays, and name days.

Teen SOYO Diaper Drive:  Please place donations for Newborn and sizes 1 and 2 in the box in the social hall.  The Women’s Care Center will distribute them to families in need.

St. Nicholas Tree: Continuing our local tradition, we encourage you to place gift cards on a small tree in the fellowship hall. Fr. Peter Jon will then give the cards to families who need help during this Christmas season. Cards from Kroger, Sam’s/Walmart and other local merchants as well as gas cards are always helpful. God loves a cheerful giver!

LOOKING AHEAD

Sunday, December 19: Baptisms and Chrismations

Friday, December 24: Royal Hours of Christmas at 9am – Christmas Eve Day

Friday, December 24: Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil at 4pm – Christmas Eve Day

Saturday, December 25: Matins and Divine Liturgy at 9am – Christmas Day

The Adult Bible Study will meet Saturday morning 9:00 -10:30 am December 18 to study the Old Testament book of Tobit. We will resume meeting  at the same time, beginning January 8th.  We meet at the Webb’s, 3960 E Fenbrook Lane, Bloomington, 47401. Contact Rhonda for more information in person or at webbrk1@gmail.com 314-313-4275

THIS WEEK

Wednesday, December 15: Daily Vespersat 6:00; Ask Abouna and O101 follow with Fr. Peter Jon presenting “Icons of Christmas“.

Saturday, December 18:Adult Bible Study at the Webb’s 9:00-10:30

Saturday, December 18: Great Vespers at 5:00; Jr. SOYO at 4:00; Teen SOYO at 6:00

Sunday, December 19: Matins at 9:00; Divine Liturgy at 10:00  Chrismations and Baptisms – Parish Council meets.

EPISTLE and GOSPEL READINGS

The Reading is from St. Paul’s Epistle to the Ephesians. (5:8-19)

(For St. Spyridon)

The saints shall boast in glory. Sing unto the Lord a new song.

Brethren, walk as children of light—for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth—proving what is acceptable to the Lord; and have no communion with the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them; for it is a shame even to speak of the things which they do in secret. But all things when they are exposed are made manifest by the light, for everything that is made manifest is light. Therefore, he says: “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine upon thee.” See then that you walk circumspectly, not as unwise, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit; speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and chanting in your heart to the Lord.

The Reading is from the Holy Gospel according to St. Luke. (14:16-24)

 (For the Holy Forefathers)

The Lord spoke this parable: “A man once gave a great banquet, and invited many; and at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come; for all is now ready.’  But, one by one, they all began to make excuses.  The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it; I pray you, have me excused.’  And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them; I pray you, have me excused.’  And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’  So the servant came and reported this to his master.  Then the householder in anger said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and maimed and blind and lame.’  And the servant said, ‘Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’  And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges, and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled.  For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet.’  For many are called, but few are chosen.”

Receiving the Eucharist: We invite you to receive the Holy Eucharist if you are an Orthodox Christian who has prepared yourself through fasting, prayer, and recent confession.  If you are not Orthodox, or are Orthodox but  have not prepared, we invite you to receive a piece of the blessed bread.

DIVINE LITURGY VARIABLES for CHOIR and PARISH

Resurrectional Apolytikion – Tone 8

From the heights Thou didst descend, O compassionate One, and Thou didst submit to the three-day burial, that Thou might deliver us from passion; Thou art our life and our Resurrection, O Lord, glory to Thee.

Apolytikion of the Forefathers – Tone 2

Thou hast justified by faith the ancient Forefathers, and through them Thou hast gone before and betrothed unto Thyself the Church of the Gentiles. Let the saints, therefore, take pride in glory; for from their seed sprouted forth a noble fruit, and it was she who gave birth to Thee without seed. Wherefore, by their pleadings, O Christ God, save our souls.

Apolytikion  of St. Spyridon – Tone 1

Thou wast shown forth as a champion of the First Council and a wonderworker, O Spyridon, our God-bearing Father. Wherefore, thou didst speak unto one dead in the grave, and didst change a serpent to gold. And while chanting thy holy prayers, thou hadst Angels serving with thee, O most sacred one. Glory to Him that hath glorified thee. Glory to Him that hath crowned thee. Glory to Him that worketh healings for all through thee.

Kontakion of Preparation of Christ’s Nativity – Tone 3

The Virgin cometh today, to the cave to give birth, ineffably to bring forth the Word Eternal. Therefore, rejoice O Earth, at the message. With the angels and shepherds give glory to Him Who shall appear  by His own will, as a young child, He Who is from eternity God!

FAMILY NEWS

Memory Eternal: Catherine ‘Amy’ McCormick

Sympathy cards may be mailed to 117 Cooper Rd, Blythewood , SC 29016.

O Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, for His mercy endures forever!

The Nativity Fast: The first period is November 15 through December 19 – no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, but wine and oil are permitted on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and  fish, wine and oil on Saturdays and Sundays. The second period is December 20 through 24 when the traditional fasting discipline (no meat, poultry, eggs, dairy, fish, wine and oil) is observed with katalysis for wine and oil only on Saturday and Sunday. 

Anniversary Blessings: Glen & Wendy C (17th)

Birthday Celebrations: Zane N (10th); Rhonda W (11th); Fr. Peter Jon (18th)

Name Day Blessings: Lucia T (St. Lucia – 13th); Aaron H (St. Herman of Alaska -13th); Wyatt C (St. Herman of Alaska – 13th); Daniel R (Prophet Daniel – 17th)

Memory Eternal: Lois; Richard; Barb; Catherine ‘Amy’ McCormick; Bobby (Max’s uncle); Tate

Prayer List: Adrian and Marah Polit;Jake Immimk (hospitalized); Fr. Athanasius Wilson; Jack;Christopher:Catherine, Lance, Abigail; Covid-19 resurgence; refugees  and immigrants; our nation and nation’s leaders at all levels of government; schools: school children, youth and personnel across the nation; Nancy; April; Don; Vicki; Mat. Raisa;; Ingrid, Fr. Jerome; Catherine;; Anastasia with child; Bonnie Thelen; Wadia; Jayci; Dee, Patricia, Marvin, Alice; Michael; Olga; Eileen; Soren; Kitsa; Apthrodite and Angelos; Kim; Dusty, Cari; Betsy, Josh; Allison;  Andrew and Isaac (            Korea/military); Leanne; Heather; Nancy; Sharon Catherine; Emma; Lexi, Ross and Vivian; Theo; Doug; Jeremy; Marcia & Deacon; Elias; Waded; Seraphima; Lilly’s family; Jennifer; Christy