Up For The Challenge by Rev Christopher P Foustoukos
Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12)
Leadership by example is critically important on the ball field, class- room, playground, or in the work place. Take a moment and think back on those leaders who have set the kind of example you were proud to follow.
Setting the right example extends beyond the high visibility kinds of leadership that may win immediate applause from teammates or coworkers. It means more than doing the right thing when things are going well. Setting a good example necessitates doing the right thing even when the going gets tough or the decision is unpopular.
God not only challenges leaders to set the example in those visible areas of life (like on the playground or in a staff meeting) but also in important areas such as
speech, lifestyle, love, faith, truthfulness and purity.
As you go through your daily activities, studies and work, be sure there are others watching and learning. They may be teammates or employees under your control, or they may be family members like parents, spouse, children or your brothers and sisters.
The fact is you are always setting the example. The question is this: what kind of example are you setting.
Do you not know that in a race the runners all compete, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may receive it. (1 Corinthians 9:24)
+Rev Christopher P Foustoukos
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.