2024 Christmas by Rev Ioannis Michaelidis
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
What can we offer to the Lord this Christmas, who has given us the gift of His Divine Incarnation for our salvation?
In scripture we see that all of creation offered gifts to Him, the Newborn Babe of Bethlehem. The Angels sang hymns; the heavens displayed a star, and the shepherds brought their humble amazement. The wise men presented their three prophetic gifts, the Earth provided the cave, and the desert gave the manger.
What does each of us give? The fullness of our human nature, which is symbolized and perfected by the ever-virgin Mary and mother of our lord.
I pray that this year we can recommit the fullness of our life to our Lord Jesus Christ, offering the gift of our- selves, as did the Theotokos over two thousand years ago.
May you and your family and loved ones celebrate this Christmas and the coming New Year in good health, physical as well as spiritual, and enter into 2025 with peace and good will to all people.
Christ is Born! Glorify Him!
+Fr. Yanni
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.