december 2022

~ IN THIS ISSUE ~

Father Hector’s Message

1

Parish News

2

Parish Study Groups

3

Spiritual Message

4&5

Congregational meeting

6

C h ri s tm a s Ca rd / P oi n s e t t i a Do n a t i o n s

7

Youth/Young Adults Bazaar Pictures

8&9 10 & 11

Philoptochos/Service & Outreach 12 Preschool/Three Hierachs Greek School Christmas program 13 Parish News in Greek

14

Spiritual Message in Greek

15

Parish event Pictures

16

Sponsors

17

Advent Retreat

Back Page

Inserts December Calendar Christmas Offering Envelope 2023 Archdiocese Calendar Project Mexico Mission Trip Support 2023 Operating Budget

St. Nicholas, The Wonderworker, December 6 Receive and Share the Light of Christ!

ANNUNCIATION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH 64 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603 Phone: 717-394-1735 Fax: 717-394-0991 Email: [email protected] Website: www.annunciationorthodox.org Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

The Annunciator is the monthly newsletter of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. Submissions for consideration are due the 15th of each month.

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church is under the jurisdiction of: His Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholemew His Eminence, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America His Eminence, Metropolitan Savas of Pittsburgh

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Parish Administration Clergy Rev. Hector Firoglanis, Proistamenos Rev. Alexander Veronis, Priest Emeritus Rev. Alexander Goussetis, Mission Parish Pastor Isaac Lampart, Youth Director/Pastoral Assistant Parish Council Dr. Spencer Phillips, President George Soukas, Vice President John Stauffer, Treasurer; Steve Marinos, Assistant Treasurer Kim Keares, Secretary Keith Bartlett Kali Karomfily Panagiotis S. Billis Jonathan Speros Ed Drogaris Steve Sullivan Tina Georges Artemis Tsoflias Helen Hazatones Nicholas Veronis Nicolas Kambouroglos Board of Elders Olga Pratt, Dan Soukas Dr. Nikitas Zervanos Church Staff Office Administrator…………………..……………...Eleni Mamas Office Assistant…………………………………..Mary Sakellaris Οffice Assistant………………………………...…..Elena Bartlett Building Supervisor…………...….………… .David Gammache Sexton………………………………………………..Alex Mountis Cantors………………………………………………. Daniel Blain Aaron Blain, Nicholas Billis Jonathan Troop, Nicholas Belessis Choir Director……………………………………… John Scanlon Ecclesiarchs………………………………….……….Aaron Blain Luke Tsoflias

Church Office Email Addresses Office Email ……………….……[email protected] Fr. Hector Firoglanis………..…[email protected] Isaac Lampart……………[email protected] Fr. Alexander Veronis……………[email protected] Eleni Mamas………………………[email protected] David Gammache………………[email protected] Mary Sakellaris………………[email protected] Elena Bartlett……………...……[email protected]

Sunday Worship Hours 8:15 AM - Orthros 9:30 AM - Divine Liturgy Contacts Sunday School………………………..……….Jonathan Troop Dan Soukas, Sally Stratigos Organist....…………….………….………..Zaferula Yelagotes Philoptochos…………….……..…………………..Effie Hogan Joanne Martin GOYA President……………………….………...Kiki Billis GOYA Dance……………………...………….Despina Proithis Tina Georges JOY Dance…………….……………….…..Yanna Nachtigal Dana Panagopoulos Evzonakia Dance……………………….…….Jenna Ioannidis Lambrynee Maillis Greek School PTO………………...........Panagiotis S. Billis AHEPA………………...…………… George Georges Daughters of Penelope….…………….…..Kathy Granbois Pan-Coan Society……….………….………....Maria Barron Chiotiko Society………………….............Panagiotis S. Billis Bazaar Committee………………….…………Kosta Kontanis Alexandra Schramm Bookstore…………………………….………….Susana Troop

Father Hector’s Message

Let us Prepare the Manger of our Heart For the Coming of Christ! Dear Annunciation Family, The hymn of the Ninth Hour during the Royal Christmas Hours (Friday, December 23rd at 9:00 AM this year) so eloquently portrays the miraculous and paradoxical wonder of our Lord’s Natvity: He who holds the whole creation in the hollow of His hand, today is born of the Virgin. He whom in essence none can touch is wrapped in swaddling clothes as a mortal. God who in the beginning founded the heavens lies in a manger. He who rained manna down on the people in the wilderness is fed on mild from His Mother’s breast. He who is the Bridegroom of the Church calls unto Himself the Magi. The Son of the Virgin accepts their gifts. We worship Thy birth, O Christ, show us also Your Divine Epiphany. How do we experience this truth of God’s incarnation in our own lives? This Christmas season, the answer is that we may experience God personally within our own souls through an offering. The Three Magi each offered something to the Newborn Savior: Melkoum offered gold, signifying the Kingship of the Newborn Babe; Baspar offered incense, symbolic of the Babe’s Divinity; and Baltasar offered myrrh, foreshadowing the death and burial of Jesus. In our world where our Newborn Christ is just as rejected today as he was 2,000 years ago in Bethlehem when He was forced to be born in a cave, let us offer Him residence in our humble souls and hearts. This is the gift God wants from us. As the prayer of St. John Chrysostom before Holy Communion says: “As you did consent to lie in a cave and in a manger of irrational beasts, so also consent to lie in the manger of my irrational soul and to enter my defiled body.” This Christmas, let us offer our Lord Jesus Christ residence in our souls, and as Elder Joseph of the St. Nektarios Monastery says: “Our Christ will enter our heart, He will embellish it, clothe it with His Divine Presence, and endow it with incorrupt grace and beauty.” God comes to the world as “a child” – revealing the power of innocence, of purity, the power of a new life endowed with innumerable possibilities. During this Nativity Fast, let us cultivate within our hearts the child-like qualities of purity and simplicity which are so pleasing to God, so that the Incarnate Word of God may find a suitable dwelling place to rest within each of our souls. With love in our Newborn Savior,

+Fr. Hector

www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator/2022 PAGE 1

Parish News Sacraments Wedding Sept 17 Antonios Katsaros and Georgia Bourdadonakis, with Koumbaroi, Andrew & Maria (Katsaros) Neff. They were married in Kos, Greece! Baptism Nov 18 Zach (Arsenios) Blank, with Sponsor, George Weis.

Giving Tree Annual Giving Tree sponsored by our Sunday School Department. Your donations of new children’s socks, underwear, scarves, & mittens will be appreciated. Please bring your gifts to the Tree by Sunday, Dec. 18th.

Christmas Stockings Please pick-up a Christmas Stocking on Dec. 4th in the Breezeway to fill for a female in need. A list of suggested items is inserted in each stocking. Please return your filled stocking on Sunday, Dec. 11th or 18th, or drop it off at the church office, Monday - Friday, 8am - 4pm. No later than Dec. 18th Food Box Donations Sponsor a Food Box distribution (125 boxes) for $1,200. You may send a check to the church office made payable to “Annunciation Church” with “Food Box Ministry” on the memo line, and write if the donation is being made in memory or in honor of a loved one. Donors needed for select weeks in January & February Volunteer as a lifter or delivery driver by signing up at: https://www.annunciationorthodox.org/signups/ relief-box

FOOD BOX DONATIONS FOR NOVEMBER

Altar Candles, Flowers & Candelabras Altar Candles Nov 13 In memory of Jolie K. Voulopos by Dennis Voulopos. Altar Flowers Nov 20 In loving memory of Dimitrios Papadopoulos love the Papadopoulos family. Nov 27 In loving memory of our mother & Yiayia, Angeliki Billis, by her family. Candelabra Candles Nov 13 In loving memory of John Dianastasis, by his wife, Despina, children & grandchildren. Nov 20 In loving memory of our mother, Janet Jupin, from her family.

Kalanda The Kalanda will be sung congregationally after The Liturgy on Sunday, January 1, 2023. A collection will be made after Liturgy for donations to benefit St. Basil's Academy. If you would like to sing Kalanda with the youth groups of our parish at the nursing homes Sunday, December 18th, please see the flyer on page 11 of this Annunciator and sign up online at the AGOC website youth page or with Isaac.

Senior Citizens Christmas Gathering Thursday, December 1, at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, York, PA Paraklesis at 11:00 am Followed by lunch & entertainment Please contact the church office to RSVP and/or reserve a spot on the church van — which will depart from church parking lot at 10:00 AM.

2023 Stewardship Pledges Please take the time to fill out your pledge form! You can also call or send an email to: [email protected] stating your name and amount you are pledging.

November 10, 2022 - Donated by Dennis J. Voulopos, in loving memory of Jolie K. Voulopos. November 22, 2022 - Donated in loving memory of You may also fill out an online pledge at our uncle and aunt, William & Polina Hasircoglou, https://www.annunciationorthodox.org/onlineand in Honor of St. Catherine’s Feast Day (11/25) giving/make-a-pledge from John & Katina Keares and family. www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator/ 2022PAGE 2

Parish Study Groups

Learn Your Faith! Our parish is blessed to offer a variety of Bible Studies and discussion groups to help inform and inspire our parishioners and visitors. Check the weekly bulletin, the monthly Annunciator, and the parish website for specific dates and times of the following groups.

PLUGGED-IN STUDY GROUP This study group meets after Liturgy, during the Coffee Fellowship, and is led by John Lampart and Steve Sullivan, with discussion on how our Orthodox Faith impacts our daily life over a cup of coffee.

Sunday, December 11 & 18 Room 4/5 - 11:15am—12:00pm

Wednesday Evening Bible Study

Orthodoxy 101 Class

This study group meets before the Paraklesis Service and examines the theology and spiritual life of the Orthodox Church using the Holy Scriptures and Lives and Teachings of the Orthodox Saints. Fall Session: “The Truth of our Faith” by Elder Cleopa. Wednesday, December 14 & 21 Room 7— 6:00 to 7:00 PM

A class on the Introduction to the Orthodox Faith will meet after the Vespers Service on Saturday evenings. We will be using our guide the book, “The Orthodox Faith, Worship, and Life: An Orthodox Catechism Outline” by Hieromonk Gregorios. Saturday, December 3 & 17 Room 7 — 7:00 to 8:00 PM

Women’s Morning Bible Study This group, led by Presvytera Pearl Veronis, meets weekly on Tuesday mornings. Bible Studies and other resources are used for inspiration and education of the Orthodox faith. Tuesday, December 13 & 20 10:00 AM - Room 7

Women’s Orthodox Book Study

Study of the Apostolic Church Fathers

Meets weekly and will focus on the book, by Rev. Paul Abernathy, The Prayer of a Broken Heart: An Orthodox Christian Reflection on African American Spirituality. Thursday, December 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29

4:30 PM — at 305 Aletha Lane, Millersville, PA Contact Susana Troop [email protected]

This study group, led by George Weis, will examine the life and teachings of the Apostolic Church Fathers from the 1st and 2nd Centuries. Thurs., December 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 6:30 PM in Room 7 (After the 6pm Akathist to Jesus Christ)

“Water of Wisdom” Women’s Study Group

“Kafethaki with the Saints”

A new Study Group for women which will meet Friday mornings at 10:00 AM after the Paraklesis Service. Led by Nikki Sullivan.

A Greek Study Group which meets weekly after the Friday morning Paraklesis over a cup of coffee and refreshments, as we watch a video of a Saint or Elder, followed by a focused discussion.

Friday, December 2 (11am after Liturgy) & December 16 (10AM after Paraklesis) in the Church Library. www.annunciationorthodox.org

Friday, December 2, 9, 16 & 30 Room 7— 10:00 to 11:00 AM The Annunciator/2022 PAGE 3

Spiritual Message

THE CHANGE CHRISTMAS BRINGS Fr Luke A. Veronis Did Christmas truly change the world? Did Christ come into the world to usher in a utopia? The Jews waited for a Messiah, whom the ancient prophets foretold would usher in a new era, fundamentally changing history, yet let’s be honest, can we say that the world we live in is such a different place preChristmas compared to post-Christmas? If we hoped that God’s entrance into the world would change fallen humanity and the dark, broken world in which we live, then we’re surely disappointed. For example, we hear the prophesy of Isaiah “For to us a Child is born, a Son is given us; upon His shoulder dominion rests. His name is Great Messenger, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty One, Sovereign Master, Prince of Peace …. of His peace there shall be no end.” Well, Jesus surely didn’t usher in an era of “peace with no end,” where harmony and unity reign in the world. Wars and violence continue even after the birth of Christ. We see hostility among nations, in cities, within families, and even in the hearts of many in every generation. What about Isaiah’s Messianic vision that “the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the goat; the calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a little Child to guide them.” Surely the wolf and the lamb remain adversaries. The leopard will eat the goat and the lion will devour the calf.

He worked manual labor as a carpenter. He never owned a home. He had no wife or children. He became an itinerate preacher traveling from village to village for only three years. He never held a position of high social standing. He never left the backward little corner of the Roman Empire in which he was born. He wasn’t a mighty military figure and didn’t create any empire. He wasn’t a world-renown scholar or teacher. He didn’t do the things that the world identifies with greatness.

After three years of preaching, His own people turned against Him. One friend betrayed Him. Another friend denied even knowing Him. The very religious leaders who were waiting for the Messiah turned Him over to the worldly authorities to mock Him, torture Him, and kill Him in the most humiliating and shameful way. He willingly accepted the path of suffering and death, Thus, what good news does Jesus bring if we still ex- and with his death the dreams for a messianic utopia perience suffering and death, like in the midst of a seemed to die with Him. global pandemic? Well, we need to understand the change which the Messiah brought – not a utopia We see that in all Jesus endured throughout His life, but a change on how we experience and navigate the He didn’t change the darkness of the world, but fully darkness of the world. Let’s first look at the life of embraced it. He identified with the worst that anyone Christ Himself. God entered the world as a poor, de- can experience in life yet overcame it. We all know fenseless child. He displayed extreme humility by be- that his life and death aren’t the end of the story. He ing born in a manger among animals. He grew up the tasted the most horrible death, and then transchild of a poor and simple Virgin maiden. He didn’t formed it. We may say He didn’t change the world revel in His divinity but experienced the fullness of into a perfect utopia, but He did usher a new way to his limited human nature. He lived in obscurity for 30 handle the darkness of the world with hope. He years. He grew up in a village with a bad reputation. changed our perspective and worldview on not only how we live life, but how we view life and death. www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator/2022 PAGE 4

Spiritual Message We see a beautiful example of this new perspective in Saint Stephen, whose memory we celebrate every December 27th. We remember the first Christian martyr, the first follower of Jesus killed for his faith. Stephen was a young man and one of the first deacons of the early church. He faithfully loved Jesus Christ and preached to others about the ways of God. Yet, at a young age, the religious leaders of the day murdered Stephen, stoning him to death.

Did Christmas truly change the world? Did Christ come into the world to usher in a utopia? What good news does Jesus bring if we still experience suffering, death, and a global pandemic?

In the eyes of the world, many would look upon the death of a young man as a terrible tragedy. A young deacon of the church killed by a fanatic mob – murdered in a horrible and unjust manner, by people throwing stones at him until he died. Can you imagine that? Men killing Stephen by stoning him and he responds by praying for his very enemies, Yet what some people see as an example of darkness asking God to forgive them for their sin. That surely is and evil in the world, Christians actually view in a distinctive light. This different perspective precisely high- a different perspective to have on life and death! lights what change the coming of Christ brings into the world. Followers of Jesus don’t see Stephen’s death as a horrible and unjust tragedy. Instead, we see his life and death as a part of the mystery of God in this ongoing fallen world, a mystery full of meaning and purpose and hope.

Finally, up to his last moment in life, Stephen understands that his life is not his own, but he is God’s. “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit,” he utters as his last words. God would have the final word. Saint Stephen was the first among the Christians martyrs to exemplify Saint Paul’s words, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live First, we look at the life of Stephen and admire his commitment and courage. He followed his Lord Jesus or die, we belong to the Lord.” (Romans 14:8) with passion and with no fear. He proclaimed the word of God as a message of hope and salvation to From the time of Christ’s birth 2000 years ago until today, millions and millions of Christians have died, all people, and when others attacked him for this message, he remained bold and courageous. He set like Saint Stephen, as martyrs of the faith. Imagine, an example for what it means to be a true follower of more than 70 million Christians have died as martyrs over the past two millenia. Every day in our Church Jesus Christ. calendar, we remember and honor the memory of different martyrs as models of the faith, and remember Second, Stephen reminds us to always keep our eyes how they embraced the new vision that Christ brought on the heavenly and eternal perspective of God. As into the world from the time through his Incarnation. the mob threatened the young deacon with violence, the Holy Spirit inspired Stephen with a vision – “I see Yes, Christmas did change the world! It changed the the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” He didn’t allow the violence way we view all that happens in the world. We face the darkness with courage and hope, with an eternal and darkness of the world to cloud his vision of God. vision and with deep faith that “whether we live or Third, despite the evil he suffered, Stephen maintained a forgiving and merciful spirit even towards those who killed him. The crowd dragged him out of the city and began to stone him, and Stephen responded by praying, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” www.annunciationorthodox.org

whether we die, we belong to the Lord.”

Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

The Annunciator/ 2022 PAGE 5

Congregational Meeting

2022 Congregational Meeting

Sunday, December 4, 2022 — Philoptochos Hall - 11:45 am All parishioners in good standing are encouraged to attend the Annual Congregational meeting on Sunday, December 4th, at 11:45 AM, after coffee fellowship and luncheon. The meeting’s purpose is to present updates on parish activities, future initiatives, approve the 2023 parish budget, and elect parish council members for the 2023-24 term. Parishioners must be in good standing to participate in the proceedings and Parish Council elections.

Members in good standing are: 1. A minimum of 18 years of age. 2. Current in his or her stewardship and financial obligations as of Sept 30, 2022. 3. Abide by parish regulations and by-laws and support the well-being of the parish. Voting for Parish Council candidates will commence immediately following the Liturgy. Absentee ballots are not permitted. If you are unsure of your status to participate and vote.

Please contact the church office before the close of business on Friday, Dec. 2, 2022.

REMEMBER THE REASON FOR THE SEASON May the Christmas GIFTS remind us of God’s greatest gift, His only Son. May the Christmas CANDLES remind us of Him who is the “Light of the world.” May the Christmas TREES remind us of another tree upon which our Lord died. May the Christmas CHEER remind us of Him who said, “Be of good cheer.” May the Christmas FEAST remind us of the Heavenly Banquet that awaits us. May the Christmas BELLS remind us of the glorious Good News of His birth. May the Christmas CAROLS remind us of the Son to whom the angels sang, “Glory to God in the Highest!” May this Christmas SEASON remind us in every way of Jesus Christ, our Eternal Lord. and King!

www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator/2022 PAGE 6

Christmas Card and Poinsettias

Every year, our Annunciation Parish offers the opportunity to our members to be part of our Annual Community Christmas Card. The Christmas Card goes to the homes of our parishioners, wishing them blessings during the Christmas season as we celebrate the Nativity of our Lord. If you would like to be included, please complete the form below and return to the church office by December 9th. A $15 minimum donation per family is greatly appreciated. All donations support the various ministries of the Annunciation Church. Make checks payable to: “Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church—Christmas Card”

64 Hershey Ave., Lancaster, PA 17603, Phone: 717-394-1735 Email: [email protected]

Please note: We must hear from you for your name to be included. Please return this form, or email Eleni at [email protected]

NAME(s) as it is to be listed on the card: Name(s)_________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: __________________________________ Email: _________________________ Mail this form along with your donation of $15 to: Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church-“Christmas Card” 64 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603

Each year, during the Christmas Season, flowers are ordered to decorate our Church. Please send in a monetary contribution in memory of a loved one, in honor of someone or for the Glory of God. The Church will purchase the poinsettia and decorations on your behalf. The names of the donor and those honored or commemorated will be listed in the Annunciator. These holiday flowers will be used to decorate the church for the holiday season and for the holiday services. Help reflect the beauty and the glory of the angels’ message by sending in your donation by December 9th to: Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church - Christmas Decorations 64 Hershey Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603 Name:__________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ In Loving Memory of _____________________________________________________________ In honor of _____________________________________________________________________

For the Glory of God _____________________________________________________________ www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator/2022 PAGE 7

St. Nicholas Family Night/South Central PA Orthodox YA Nativit y Celebration

www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator 2022/Page 8

Kalanda/Sight and Sound Trip/GOYA Christmas Gathering

www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator 2022/Page 9

Bazaar Pictures

A big THANK YOU to our dedicated volunteers for another successful Bazaar and to our Bazaar Chairpersons, Kosta Kontanis and Alexandra Schramm, for their excellent leadership!

www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator 2022/Page 10

Bazaar Pictures

www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator 2022/Page 11

Philoptochos / Service & Outreach

PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS KEEPING YOU POSTED: 2023 Sunday, January 8thVasilopita celebration to benefit St. Basil’s Academy

NOTE THE CHANGE! The Vasilopita blessing will take place from the Solea. Parishioners will receive their Vasilopita Bread in the Narthex and make a donation to St. Basil’s Academy at that time. Please notify the Church Office if you are the recipient of the coin! JANUARY MEETING December 13th – Business meeting @ 6:30 pm in Room 4/5. With refreshments, fellowship, and a video to complete the evening! Please bring a non-perishable food item to support our service & outreach to those in need.

Tuesday, January 10, 2023 @ 1:00 PM –Rm 4/5 Guest Speaker-Connie Metzler, Program Coordinator with the Neuroscience Institute of Lancaster General Health- “Mild cognitive impairment” - Business meeting to follow.

SAVE THE DATE: THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2023 BUS TRIP TO ST.NICHOLAS SHRINE IN NEW YORK CITY-

SERVICE & OUTREACH COMMITTEE Lancaster coming together!

This holiday season alone, Water Street Mission will serve nearly 45,000 meals to people experiencing homelessness. Additionally, we will give thousands of bags of groceries to those in need. That’s why WSM is asking our Lancaster community for a helping hand. In order to reach WSM food drive goal of 100,000 pounds, see list of food items to join the effort and make a difference for struggling families and individuals in our local community!

Fill a bag w/suggested food items, November 5 thru December 22.

Oatmeal, boxed cereal, canned fruit, canned spam/tuna, canned vegetables, canned beef stew, canned soups, canned yams/sweet potatoes, instant mashed potatoes, juice, apple or orange, ketchup, mayo, pancake mix & syrup, pasta, boxed hamburger helper, PB jelly, spaghetti sauce, rice, mac & cheese, coffee.

Where to drop off: AAA Central Penn, Community Aid, Any Sheetz or our church breezeway under the coat rack.

Food Box Distribution & Delivery

Thank you to our volunteers for your support financially, your time & to deliver food boxes. Distributions in December are, Thursday December 8 & 22. PLEASE sign up on the church website or call the church office, if you are available to volunteer (flagger, greeter, lifter or driver) starting @ 9:15 AM.! Christmas Gifts for New Mothers and Babies! We are collecting baby items to gift to mothers for Christmas at a Woman’s Concern. Some of our parish youth will wrap these baby items @ family night on Wednesday, 12/7 from 6:10 PM—6:55 PM in Rooms 4/5. . Please go to https://www.friendsofawc.com/support/registries/ to see what is needed. Bring items to Church (office) on or before December 7th! Thank you Bazaar food Donations were taken to The Water Street Mission & The Domestic Shelter . www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator/2022 PAGE 12

Preschool/Greek School Christmas Program

The Preschool at

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church “Talk more to God about your children, than to your children about God.”

“Be Kind and Compassionate” During the month of November, we focused on the scripture verse: “Be kind and compassionate to one another” from Ephesians 4:32. Learning about the virtue of kindness helped us to talk about kind deeds that we can do at home and here at school. We made beautiful Thanksgiving cards that we mailed to our shut-ins.

In the Classroom December Activities:

This month we will focus on St. Nicholas and the birth of our Lord. The children will attend the Divine Liturgy for St. Nicholas on December 6th, and St. Spyridon December 12th. Our virtue for the month is JOY.

Please join us for our Preschool

Christmas Program on Thursday, December 22nd at 11:00 AM

Thank you to Paul Jacobs Studio for the beautiful pictures!

Www.annunciationorthodox.org

he Annunciator/2022 PAGE 13

Parish News in Greek ΙΕΡΕΣ ΑΚΟΛΟΥΘΙΕΣ ΔΕΚΕΜΒΡΙΟΥ Παρασκευή, 2 Δεκεμβρίου Αγ. Πορφύριος 8:30πμ... Ορθρος 9:30πμ....Θεία Λειτουργία Τρίτη, 6 Δεκεμβρίου Αγ. Νικόλαος 8:30πμ... Ορθρος 9:30πμ....Θεία Λειτουργία Παρσκευή, 9 Δεκεμβρίου Αγ. Άννα 8:30πμ... Ορθρος 9:30πμ....Θεία Λειτουργία Δευτέρα, 12 Δεκεμβρίου Αγ. Σπυρίδωνας 8:30πμ... Ορθρος 9:30πμ....Θεία Λειτουργία Πέμπτη, 15 Δεκεμβρίου Αγ. Ελευθέριος 8:30πμ... Ορθρος 9:30πμ....Θεία Λειτουργία Παρασκευή, 23 Δεκεμβρίου 9:00 πμ.....Βασιλικές Ώρες Σαββάτο, 24 Δεκεμβρίου 8:20πμ... Ορθρος 9:30πμ....Θεία Λειτουργία 6:00 μμ..... Εσπερινος Χριστουγέννων Κυριακή, 25 Δεκεμβρίου Χριστούγεννα 7:30πμ... Ορθρος 9:30πμ....Θεία Λειτουργία Τρίτη, 27 Δεκεμβρίου Αγ. Στέφανος 8:30πμ... Ορθρος 9:30πμ....Θεία Λειτουργία Σαββάτο, 31 Δεκεμβρίου 7:00 μμ....Εσπερινός Αγίου Βασιλείου ΕΣΠΕΡΙΝΟΣ 6:00 μμ .....Σάββατο 3, 10, & 17Δεκεμβρίου ΠΑΡΑΚΛΗΣΕΙΣ 7:00 μμ.....Τετάρτη, 7, 14 &21 Δεκεμβρίου ΠΑΡΑΚΛΗΣΕΙΣ ΣΤΗΝ ΘΕΟΤΟΚΟΥ Παρασκευή 9, 16 & 30 Δεκεμβρίου - 9:00πμ Κύκλος «Καφεδάκη» με τους Άγιους Πατέρες (Στα Ελληνικά) Παρασκευή 9, 16 & 30 Δεκεμβρίου - 10:00πμ στο δωμάτιο 7, με τον Πατέρα Εκτωρα Παρασκευή 2, Δεκεμβρίου –11:00 πμ

ΚΥΚΛΟΙ ΜΕΛΕΤΗΣ ΑΓΙΑΣ ΓΡΑΦΗΣ Βραδινός Κύκλος Μελέτης Με τον Πατέρα Έκτωρα. 6:00 μμ -Τετάρτη, 7, 14 & 21 Δεκεμβρίου Κύκλος Γυναικών Αγίας Γραφής Τρίτη 13 & 20 Δεκεμβρίου στις 10:00 πμ με την Πρεσβυτέρα Παναγιώτα Βρυώνη

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www.annunciationorthodox.org

ΜΥΣΤΗΡΙΑ ΤΗΣ ΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΑΣ ΜΑΣ Γάμος Σεπτεμβρίου 17 - Αντώνης Κατσαρός & Γεωργία Mπουρδαδονάκη, με Κουμπάρους, Ανδρέας & Μαρία (Κατσαρός) Νέφ. Ο Γάμος εγινε στην Κός, Ελλαδα!

Βάπτιση

Νοεμβρίου 18 - Zac (Αρσένιος)Blank, με Άναδοχό, George Weis. ΚΟΥΤΙΑ ΤΡΟΦΙΜΑ ΔΩΡΕΕΣ ΓΙΑ ΤΟΝ ΝΟΕΜΒΡΙΟ 10 Νοεμβρίου 2022 - Δωρεά από τον Dennis J. Voulopos, στη μνήμη της Jolie K. Voulopos. 22 Νοεμβρίου 2022 - Δωρεά στη μνήμη του θείου και της θείας μας, Βασίλη & Πολίνας Χαζιρκόγλου, και προς τιμήν της γιορτής της Αγίας Αικατερίνης (25/11) από τον Γιάννη & Κατίνα Κέρι, και οικογένεια.

Δωρεές Κουτιών Τροφίμων Δωρίστε μια διανομή (125 κουτιά) για $1,200. Μπορείτε να στείλετε μια επιταγή στο γραφείο της εκκλησίας που είναι πληρωτέα στην «Εκκλησία του Ευαγγελισμού» με «Food Box Ministry» στη γραμμή υπομνήματος και να γράψετε εάν η δωρεά γίνεται στη μνήμη ή προς τιμή ενός αγαπημένου προσώπου. Χρειάζονται δωρητές για επιλεγμένες εβδομάδες τον Ιανουάριο & Φεβρουάριο

Χριστουγεννιάτικη Κάρτα & Χριστουγεννιάτικες Διακοσμήσεις Αν θέλετε να γράψετε το ονομα σας στην Χριστουγεννιάτικη Κάρτα και να κάνετε δωρεά για της Χριστουγεννιάτικες διακοσμήσεις, παρακαλούμε συμπληρώστε την επισυναπτόμενη φόρμα. Ποθεσμία, 9 Δεκεμβρίου

ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥΓΕΝΝΙΑΤΙΚΗ ΣΥΓΚΕΝΤΡΩΣΗ ΗΛΙΚΙΩΜΕΝΩΝ Πέμπτη 1, Δεκεμβρίου στόν Ευαγγελισμό Της Θεοτόκου, York, PA Παράκληση στις 11:00 π.μ Ακολουθούμενο μέ μεσημεριανό γεύμα και διασκέδαση Επικοινωνήστε με το γραφείο της εκκλησίας για να κρατήστε μια θέση στο φορτηγό της εκκλησίας το οποίο θα αναχωρήσει από το πάρκινγκ της εκκλησίας στις 10:00 π.μ.

2023 ΥΠΟΣΧΕΣΕΙΣ (STEWARDSHIP) Αφιερώστε λίγο χρόνο για να συμπληρώσετε τηv φόρμα Yποσχέσεις! Μπορείτε επίσης να καλέσετε την Εκκλησία, 717-394-1735 ή να στείλετε ένα email στην Εκκλησία - [email protected] Σάς ευχαριστούμε. The Annunciator/2022 PAGE 14

Spiritual Message in Greek

Αγίου Νικολάου Βελιμίροβιτς «Προσευχές στην Λίμνη» Ευλόγησε τους εχθρούς μου Ευλόγησε τους εχθρούς μου, Κύριε. Και εγώ τους ευλογώ και δεν τους καταριέμαι. Οι εχθροί με έσπρωξαν πιο πολύ στην αγκαλιά Σου παρά οι φίλοι. Οι φίλοι με έδεναν με τη γη· οι εχθροί με έλυναν από τη γη και γκρέμιζαν όλες τις ελπίδες μου σ’ αυτήν. Αυτοί με έκαναν ξένο στης γης τα βασίλεια και άχρηστο κάτοικό της. Όπως το αγρίμι που διώκεται βρίσκει καταφύγιο πιο σίγουρο από εκείνο που δεν διώκεται, έτσι είμαι και εγώ διωκόμενος από τους εχθρούς. Βρήκα το πιο σίγουρο καταφύγιο με το να κρυφτώ κάτω από την δική Σου σκηνή, όπου ούτε φίλοι ούτε εχθροί δεν μπορούν να κάνουν κακό στην ψυχή μου. Ευλόγησε τους εχθρούς μου, Κύριε. Και εγώ τους ευλογώ και δεν τους καταριέμαι. Αυτοί, αντί για μένα, εξομολογήθηκαν τις αμαρτίες μου μπροστά στον κόσμο. Αυτοί με μαστίγωναν, όταν εγώ δίσταζα να μαστιγώσω τον εαυτό μου. Αυτοί με βασάνιζαν, όταν εγώ απέφευγα τα βάσανα. Αυτοί με επέπλητταν, όταν εγώ ο ίδιος κολάκευα τον εαυτό μου. Αυτοί με έφτυναν, όταν εγώ υπερηφανευόμουν για τον εαυτό μου. Ευλόγησε τους εχθρούς μου, Κύριε. Και εγώ τους ευλογώ και δεν τους καταριέμαι. Όταν εγώ παρίστανα τον σοφό, αυτοί με ονομάτιζαν τρελό. Όταν εγώ παρίστανα τον δυνατό, αυτοί με χλεύαζαν σαν νάνο. Όταν εγώ ήθελα να καθοδηγώ ανθρώπους, αυτοί με έσπρωχναν στα μετόπισθεν. Όταν εγώ έσπευδα να πλουτίσω, αυτοί με χτυπούσαν με σιδερένιο χέρι. Όταν εγώ σκεφτόμουν πως θα κοιμηθώ ήσυχα, αυτοί με ξυπνούσαν από τον ύπνο. Όταν εγώ έχτιζα σπίτι για μακροχρόνια και γαλήνια ζωή, αυτοί το γκρέμιζαν και με πετούσαν έξω. Πράγματι· οι εχθροί με απάλλαξαν από τον κόσμο και μάκρυναν τα χέρια μου μέχρι τα δικά Σου τα κράσπεδα… Ευλόγησε τους εχθρούς μου, Κύριε. Και εγώ τους ευλογώ και δεν τους καταριέμαι. Ευλόγησέ τους και πολλαπλασίασέ τους· πολλαπλασίασέ τους και ακόμη περισσότερο εξαγρίωσέ τους εναντίον μου. Ώστε η φυγή μου προς Εσένα να γίνει ανεπιστρεπτί. Ώστε η ελπίδα μου στους ανθρώπους να διαλυθή ολάκερη σαν ιστός αράχνης. Ώστε η ταπείνωση να βασιλεύσει ολοκληρωτικά στην ψυχή μου. Ώστε η καρδιά μου να γίνει τάφος των δύο κακών διδύμων μου: της υπερηφάνειας και της οργής. Ώστε όλον τον θησαυρό μου να τον συγκεντρώσω στον ουρανό… Αχ! να ελευθερωθώ επιτέλους από την αυταπάτη, που με έχει μπλέξει στο φοβερό δίχτυ της απατηλής ζωής. Οι εχθροί μου δίδαξαν αυτό που λίγοι γνωρίζουν, πως ο άνθρωπος δεν έχει εχθρούς στον κόσμο πέρα από τον εαυτό του… Μισεί τους εχθρούς εκείνος μονάχα που δεν γνωρίζει πως οι εχθροί δεν είναι εχθροί αλλά φίλοι σκληροί. Πράγματι· μου είναι δύσκολο να πω ποιός μου έκανε περισσότερο καλό και ποιός περισσότερο κακό σ’ αυτόν τον κόσμο: οι φίλοι ή οι εχθροί. Γι’ αυτό ευλόγησε, Κύριε, και τους φίλους και τους εχθρούς μου. Ο δούλος καταριέται τους εχθρούς, γιατί δεν ξέρει. Ο υιός τους ευλογεί, γιατί ξέρει… Γιατί ξέρει ο υιός ότι οι εχθροί δεν μπορούν να του αγγίξουν την ζωή. Γι’ αυτό ελεύθερα βαδίζει ανάμεσά τους και προσεύχεται στον Θεό γι’ αυτούς. Ευλόγησε τους εχθρούς μου, Κύριε. Και εγώ τους ευλογώ και δεν τους καταριέμαι… www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator/2022 PAGE 15

Clergy Gathering/Chanting Class/GOYA Firepit/New Iconography

www.annunciationorthodox.org

The Annunciator/ 2021 PAGE 16

Sponsor Page

Residential Cleaning | Lancaster, PA Maggie Blain | 252-214-8138

LITTLE CHEF RESTAURANT TAKE OUT, DINE IN & DELIVERY (610) 384-3221 Owners Nick & Peter Lymberis

www.annunciationorthodox.org

152 Strode Ave Coatesville, PA

The Annunciator/ 2021 PAGE 17

The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church 64 Hershey Avenue Lancaster, PA 17603

Non-Profit ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lancaster, PA Permit No. 502