Towards Authentic Christian Life
The authentic Christian experience consists of preparing ourselves for communion and community. As the Church, the Εκκλησι?α, the Assembly of God’s chosen people, we exist in tension between being and becoming. We are called to find the right balance between being and becoming. We are called to find the right balance between “being” Orthodox Christians and becoming more fully, truly and perfectly Orthodox Christians.
The process of genuine transformation is both external and internal, without true transfiguration of the soul nothing externally altered will be long lasting. To make long lasting progress in the Christian life we must put in effort. We must strive in order to make progress, and when progress is made we find ourselves in a new place, with a renewed depth and clarity, we must then work to stabilize this progress. Doing so truly makes this who we are, and applying it to every aspect and moment of our life as best we can to solidify and securely stand our ground, prior to making efforts to take another step.
This is the balance of being and becoming climbing to the next level by first seeing that we have a good foundation to push off from, and a solid place to land, and stabilize ourselves in the firm hands of Christ. The constant process of renewal and deepening of our spiritual, physical, emotional, relational well-being. In perfecting ourselves, we make ourselves more acceptable for God and His people. Maintaining and strengthening our relationship with God, and if it is at the moment non-existent then establishing one with Him begins with humility in prayer and in reading of scripture, regular liturgical participation and confession.
These are the gifts, the tools and the means that have been provided to us for the healing of our souls and bodies, for the renewal of humanity and creation itself, one person, one step, and one moment at a time. With the start of Lent we have a fresh opportunity to begin this process of transformation anew. With the duration and close of Lent we have the opportunity to stabilize our progress and together celebrate Christ’s victory over death, and humanities freedom from his clutches.
Χριστος Ανεστη! Christ is Risen!
+ Rev Ioannis (Yanni) Michaelidis, Assistant Pastor
Ministry Resources
ORTHODOX LIFE: MONTHLY BULLETIN
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PARISH MINISTRIES BOOKLET
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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.