Christmas 2022 by Rev Christopher P Foustoukos
He sent redemption to His people; He has commanded His covenant forever. (Ps 111:9)
In the person of Jesus Christ, our Heavenly Father sent redemption to His people. He sent His very own precious Son to be our Redeemer. What a wonderful gift has been give to us. We know that we are not worthy because of our sinfulness, yet He still comes. He comes for you and me. Christ comes to bestow His blessings upon us in abundance. In his writings, Saint Tikhon has Jesus saying these glorious words to us:
Do you want wisdom? I am God’s wisdom. Do you want friendship? Who is friendlier or more loving than I, who laid down my life for you? Are you looking for help? Who can offer greater help than I? Do you need a doctor? Who can cure, other then I, the source of all healing. Looking for joy? Who will make you happy if not I? Looking for peace? I am the peace of the soul. Looking for life? I am the Resurrection and the life. Looking for light? I am the light of the whole world. Looking for truth? I am the Truth. Searching for the way? I am the way. Looking for a guide to heaven? I am the only true Guide. Why don’t you want to come to me? You dare not approach? Who is easier to approach than I? You are afraid to ask? Who have I ever refused who has asked with faith? Your sins prevent you? I died for sinners. Your great number of sins distresses you? My mercy is greater than all your sins.
My dear brothers and sister, Christ was born for us, that He might be born in us! Please wherever your travels take you this holiday season take some time Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to come to Church to thank our Heavenly Father for the Greatest gift we have ever received... Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2023!
+Father Chris
Ministry Resources
ORTHODOX LIFE: MONTHLY BULLETIN
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PARISH MINISTRIES BOOKLET
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Orthodox Marketplace
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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.