Reflection from Fr. Christopher P Foustoukos
An angel of the Lord appeared to (Joseph) in a dream and said, "Joseph...do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus,
for he will save his people their sins.” ( Matthew 1:20-21)
My son’s birth was a gift for my wife, Claire, and me. I remember the day he was born and the stress I felt as Claire had to have a C- section; and I was with her the en- tire time. When the doctor delivered our son and I heard his first cry, I understood how it must of felt for Joseph to witness the birth of Christ.
While the birth of any child is a gift, the birth of Jesus Christ was God’s greatest gift. When Christ was born, Mary and Joseph knew he had come to bring salvation to all.
During Christmas we can get so caught up in looking for the perfect gift for others that we miss the perfect gift given to us by God. From this gift of love, we are inspired to love one another. Such a gift is free for all to take, and once accepted, it is life changing.
May we pause this Christmas and thank God for the perfect gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, and for the salvation that came through Him. A very Blessed and Merry Christmas to all!
+Father Chris
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Explanation of Hymns Following the Gospel
Apolytikion
The Apolytikion, or “dismissal hymn,” is a short Orthodox hymn that summarizes the meaning of a feast day or honors the saint of the day. Sung at Vespers, Matins, and the Divine Liturgy, it reflects the spiritual theme of the celebration.
Kontakion
A Kontakion is a short Orthodox hymn or “poetic sermon” that reflects the meaning of a feast or sacred theme. Originating in the Byzantine era, it was once a longer hymn, though today only its opening verses are typically sung in worship.
Sunday Worship Services (live streaming on 1st Sunday of the month only)
Orthros at 8:00 am
Divine Liturgy at 9:00 am
Memorial Service follows the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy
Special Liturgical Services & Commemorations
Service of Proskomide
The Proskomide, or Office of Oblation, is the preparation service for Holy Communion during the Divine Liturgy. Parishioners may submit names of the living and departed for commemoration by the priest during the service. Please provide names to the sexton in the narthex before Orthros begins.
Artoklasia
Artoklasia, meaning “breaking of bread,” is a special thanksgiving service offered on feast days or family occasions. Celebrated at the end of Divine Liturgy or Great Vespers, it commemorates Christ’s blessing of the five loaves that fed the five thousand. Please contact the church office at 978-531-0777 to schedule an Artoklasia.
Memorial Services & Kollyva
Kollyva, a blessed offering of boiled wheat, is prepared for Memorial Services in remembrance of the departed, especially the 40-day memorial. A Trisagion is a shorter memorial prayer service offered in church or at the gravesite without Kollyva. Please contact the church office at 978-531-0777 to schedule a Memorial Service.
Kollyva for Mercy Meals
Kollyva for the Mercy Meal following a funeral may be ordered through a parishioner volunteer. Please contact Niki at 978-578-7292for information or orders.