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Christ enters Jerusalem (after raising Lazaros from the grave). But this time He doesn’t enter as He did before, unrecognized, unknown, unacknowledged. No, now He himself, who never before sought either power or glory, prepares for his triumph. He orders his disciples to bring a young donkey, and sitting upon it He enters the city pre-ceded by a crowd and children bearing palm branches in their hands. The crowd and the children greet him with an ancient greeting reserved only for the king: “’Hosanna…! Blesses is He that comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the high-est!’ And when he entered Jerusalem all the city was stirred…” (Mt 21:0-10).

This crowd, these palm branches, that thunderous royal welcome, that triumphant joy, what does it all mean? And why do we commemorate this event each year with exactly the same joy, as if we ourselves were standing on the street of that holy city waiting, welcoming, exulting, and repeating the very same words, the very same “Hosanna”?

He taught about the Kingdom of God and about his future reign. But on this day, six days before Passover, He reveals his kingdom on earth, He opens it inviting the people, and all of us as well, to become citizens of this Kingdom of Christ, subjects of this humble King, a King with no earthly authority, with no earthly might, but with all-powerful love.

We live in a world, under governments, that have renounced God and are busy only with themselves, jealously guarding their own authority, power, might and victories. There is almost no place in this world for God’s love, God’s light, God’s joy.

We say to ourselves and to the world: Christ’s Kingdom lives. The kingdom that shone so brightly on that day in Jerusalem has not died, it has not perished, it has not disappeared from the face of the earth. We say to God: You are the one Lord, You are our only King; we know and believe and affirm that this Kingdom of your love will be victorious over sin, evil, and death.

The joy of this faith no one can take from us, even if others put all their hope in power and violence. But your kingdom, Lord, will remain. And the time will come when with your love You will wipe every tear from our eyes, dissolve every sorrow in your joy, and fill the world You created with the light of immortality.

Excerpts From Fr. Alexander Schmemann

 

This Annunciator is in memory of Despina “Pat” Maintanis 3/year Anniversary 

With Love Sponsored by: John & Lillian, John Jr. & Karisa & John III, Jason, Rhea

Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear.

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Annunciation Luncheon Thank You’s 

A full house attended our recent Sunday Observance of our parish name day on March 26– thank you to all who came and all who cooked. We especially thank our food donors..Athanasios & Lena (Zafiriades) Meltsakos and the desert donors, Dr. Kennth and Myrto Morrissey and Sotiri Mioni, in memory of Dr. Jacques & Eva Mioni. Congratulations to the children of our Greek Language Program who entertained and inspired us all with their program!

Numerous Activities After Easter 

Sat April 22– Buffet Dinner for the benefit of IOCC (International Orthodox Christian Charities), sponsored by our parish. This is a most important ministry of the Assembly of Orthodox Bishops in the USA. See details on our back page and plan to attend in person or support through a donation. Note reservations are being taken “online.”

Sunday April 30– The Armenian Community of RI is sponsoring a play by Judith Bo-yajian “Woman Of Ararat” – at the Scottish Rite Auditorium—Cranston. Seating is lim-ited—Reserve early—401-749-0269 or dmartiesian@yahoo.com

Tuesday May 2- Our parish will be the host site for a Metropolis Sponsored Seminar for our District of the Metropolis, beginning with a light dinner at 6PM. Guest speaker is Rev Fr Robert Archon “What our possessions tell us about our relationship with Christ our Lord.” Parishioners in all leadership roles and any interested persons are invited. Both a Sunday School Teachers and Philoptochos breakout sessions will also be held.

Wednesday May 10- Author of the book “S.O.B.E.R.” (Anita Baglaneas Devlin) will speak at our parish concerning the addiction and recovery of her son, sponsored by Philoptochos….see details on the Philoptochos at page 14.

Dr. Mary Despina Lekas Endowment Fund News
Financial Report for the period ending 2/28/17
Endowment Fund Portfolio $802,207.73
Endowment Fund Checking Account $22,213.28

A donation has been made to the Endowment Fund by
M/M John Fotopoulos, M/M Michael Haveles, M/M Basil Karanikos, Elizabeth Marses, Jean Mihelakos, The Philoptochos, Andrew Rougas & Mary Samaras in memory of Nikolitsa Tsamis

A donation has been made by Mary Samaras in memory of Maryanna Floskis

A donation has been made by Mary Samaras in memory of Dr. Charles Allendorf

A donation has been made by Mary Samaras in memory of Angela Promades

A donation has been made by M/M Constantine Rougas & M/M John Vanikiotis in memory of Eleftheria Perdikakis

A general donation made by Matthew Massenzio

“BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS”……OUR ENDOWMENT FUND! 

Lenten Floral Icons 

Thank you for your donations for the Friday Lenten Icons: M/M Michael Haralambides (in memory of John & Angeliki Katsetos & Elias & Eleni Haralambides, Lynda Takoudes (in memory of Christos Takoudes), Betty Marses (in memory Efstathios Marses), Carol Xanthakis (in memory of John Xanthakis), Gus & Roula Proyous, M/M Michael Papigiotis (in memory of Theofanis G. & Martha Papigiotis, Harry D. & Irene Psilopoulos, Dennis H. Psilopoulos, Angelica E. Stappas), Niovi Constantinides.

Donations Needed for Palm Sunday, Holy Week, Pascha 

We are accepting donations for Flowers, Palms, Bows, Candelabras, etc. Simply call the office @(401) 942-4188 and make a donation in memory of a loved one. We appreciate your generosity. 

RECENT DEATHS 

Charles Gionis, age 64 of Centerdale, RI passed away on 3/10/17, his funeral and buri-al was held on 3/17/17. Eleftheria Perdikakis, age 92, of Cranston, RI passed away on 3/14/17, her funeral and burial was held on 3/20/17. ALSO: Elias Kondilis, father of parishioner Paraskevi Mantsos passed away in Greece.

Lazaros Saturday to Pascha 

Sat., April 8 Saturday of Lazaros / Church School Communion 8:15 am – Orthros
9:20 am – Forgiveness Prayers
9:30 am – Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sun., April 9 Palm Sunday / Entrance to Jerusalem
8:15 am – Orthros
9:20 am – Forgiveness Prayers
9:30 am – Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom with distribution of Palms

Sunday Evening: 7:00 pm – 8:15 pm— Nymphios Service 

Mon., April 10 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm— Nymphios Service/Forgiveness Prayers afterwards

Tues., April 11 7:00 pm – 8:45 pm— Nymphios Service/Forgiveness Prayers afterwards

Wed., April 12 The Sacrament of Holy Oil (Euchailion)
4:00 pm – 5:15 pm— Followed by anointing (especially for families w/ children)
7:00 pm – 8:45 pm— Nymphios Service — Followed by anointing

Thurs., April 13 Commemoration of the Mystical Supper
6:00 am – 7:45 am— Vesper / Liturgy of St. Basil

Communion to be distributed within the proper context of the liturgy

THE PASSION OF OUR LORD / SERVICE OF THE CRUCIFIXION
(Thursday Evening) 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm Reading of the 12 Gospel Narratives
And Procession of the Crucifixion

Fri., April 14 Holy and Great Friday
10:00 am – 11:45 am- Service of the Royal Hours (Teens as readers)
Simultaneously the decoration of the Tomb
4:00 pm – 5:15 pm— Service of the Descent from the Cross
7:30 pm – 10:30 pm— Service of the Lamentations w/Procession 

Sat., April 15 Holy & Great Saturday / Discovery of the Empty Tomb
9:00am – 10:45am— Vesper / Liturgy of St. Basil
Communion will be distributed within the proper context of the liturgy
11:00 pm— Chanting of the Paschal Canon
Please arrive early giving yourself time to park your car and enter the Church which will take extra time due to the large number of people who normally attend.
11:45 pm – 2:15 am – Paschal Orthros & Resurrection Liturgy 

Sun., April 16 Holy Pascha (Easter Sunday)
Noon—1:00 pm—Agape Vespers
(Gospel Read in Various languages of the World)
Children’s Easter Egg Hunt follows at 1:00 PM

2017 PLEDGE PROGRAM REPORT
We have to date 268 parishioners with a pledge of $145,977.00 as of March 31. The Actual Amount Received as of March 31, is $108,361.98 

Gregory Agakos, Zaharoula Agakos, M/M Christodoulos Andriotis, Alex Biliouris, Donna Broccoli, Viola Degaitas, Artemis DiCarlo, Jason DiCarlo, Dr. & Mrs. Michael DiMaio, Dr.’s Jonathan & Thomai Dion, M/M Hercules Fircanis, Nicholas Fircanis, M/M Thomas Frank, Stavros Hantzopoulos, M/M Vasilios Harritos, M/M Joseph Howard, Mary Kanelos, Zoe Kazianis, James Kripotos, M/M Spiro Kyriakakis, M/M John Loezos, Catherine Louth, E. Nicholl Marshall, M/M Matthew Massenzio, Demetri Melanis, Sotiris Mioni, M/M Theodoros Moran, Dr. & Mrs. Kenneth Morris-sey, Melissa Morrissey, Stephen Morrissey, Victoria Moschou, M/M Harry Nicolopou-los, M/M George Panas, Flora Popovici, Carroll Promades, M/M Stamatios Revis, An-drew Rougas, Cathy Rougas, Nanci Sarganis, Georgia Scapinakis, Christopher Sheehan, M/M Peter Simone, M/M Edmund Sullivan, Mr. Thompson & Dr. Tryforos, M/M Peter Tzanetos, Dr. & Mrs. Michael Vezeridis, M/M Peter Vassilopoulos, M/M Peter Vican, M/M Charles Xynellis.

Remember the wise words of the Scriptures… “As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” (1 Peter 4:10)

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PHASE 2 

The Capital Improvement Committee has been very busy meeting with different con-tractors regarding various improvement projects planned for our church. We have met with two contractors to discuss the refurbishing of the pews in the church. This work should be performed in conjunction with the contractor who will install the new carpet, therefore, the two projects will require a great deal of coordination. We are also negoti-ating with two companies about the replacement of the mosaic icon screens. These companies are in Italy and we need to carefully evaluate their pro-posals. Finally, we are beginning the preliminary discussion regarding the replacement of the church’s HVAC system.

Our fund-raising effort continues and we have received a total of $139,742.00 in pledge donations from 70 families. Thank you for your support and generous donations. Donations, however, have slowed down considerable. There has been only one donor since our last Annunciator was issued. The new donor is: Joseph & Joann Howard. Thank you very much.

If you have not yet submitted your 2 year pledge, please do so. We have a lot of work to complete in the coming months.

– Submitted by James Silva

GREEK FOOD FAIR 2017– SAVE THE DATE! 

Invite your family, friends and neighbors and come enjoy the same great food as our festival! Our traditional menu will include gyro, souvlaki, lamb dishes, pastries and Greek coffee.

Saturday, May 6th, 11am – 7pm / Sunday, May 7th 11am – 6pm 

We ask you to offer your time and talent to this parish event! Submit the sign-up form below to the parish office by designating your preferred work area and suggested shift schedule or contact Elaine Crabtree @ 401-433-8018, also you may contact the office @ 401-942-4188 with your choice of date (s) and times. Flexible shift hours will be accommodated!

Thank you for your support!

Annunciation Athletics Program 

2016/17 Basketball Team 

We continue to have a healthy group of youth participating in the Annunci-ation Basketball Program. The 2016/2017 season has once again been re-warding to our youth with much growth as teammates, players and Ortho-dox Christians from neighboring parishes. Once again this year Cranston and Pawtucket teamed up to form the 9-15 year old junior division that have been playing games for decades at Haven Methodist Church in East Providence on Saturday mornings.

13 wins and 2 losses. Congratulations! 

Any questions relating to the Athletics Program please contact Stephen Sterpis 226-3116 or email ssterpis621@gmail.com

STEWARDSHIP SUNDAY MESSAGE 

Sunday February 19, 2017 by Anthony Pappas

To be a Steward in the Vineyard of the Master of Creation 

To be a steward in the vineyard of the Master of Creation: what would it be like to approach that gate And see it awing open to me, who then in vinyl sneakers plod and, when I have found my space of earth, till soil as black as the genesis of the universe? I wave my hand at fellow hands, and they look me in the eye and, for the pleasure of the moment, place fists on lower backs to arch their spines and press lips to the sun. As I work I hear singing, and there is no need to do any myself. And because I am listening, I hear the Lord approach. He wasn’t going my way, but he turns to confront me and says, “Brother,” placing a hand on my shoulder, “you made a good impression today. Your labor speaks for itself. There is no one who can do for me what you do now. My Father was right to employ you.” And turning he takes his leave, though never truly leaving, and I can feel his power echo in my soul.

But, says a voice in the dark, would you ever kill him? I respond, Would I ever? Do you mean if He were someone else—someone less important? Is there enough blood money in the world? Is there some authority I could gain that would be greater than what I have been given? Here I’ve betrayed my naivety. In my life, who has been like the evil vinedressers in the parable (Matt 21:33-44) who murdered their master’s son to steal his inheritance? Who can be that wicked? While there may be real scoun-drels in the world, everyone I have known seems good. The voice that asks me, What becomes of that person when he is far from church—during the workweek?—is tremu-lous in its skepticism. I feel that, in spite of my ignorance of the personal lives of my fellow congregants, it is possible to know them far better by the example they are striv-ing to emulate. This is active “knowing”: working side by side, rubbing shoulders, hammering out our details. The alternative is a character sketch of perceptions, and mine have always been equivocal, and how do you befriend someone born out of the confusion of your mind?

Instead of that I am certain of this: the members of my church are stewards. The vineyard is this building, that sky this perfect dome. That dome refers to our situation. Unlike a church steeple that symbolizes reaching for paradise, the dome holds us in place. While it is said to be a steward we invest time, talent, and treasure—which may seem like a lot—to accomplish any of it we have only to stand still. And listen. Did you hear the choir? Don’t worry if you missed them; they’re going to sing again. And if you see beside you an empty seat that was filled, consider the possibility that the per-son who sat there is a Sunday School teacher who has gone below to see to the commu-nity’s “foundations.” I think those students, even, are stewards, with the combined tal-ents of enthusiasm and curiosity. Many of you, I am sure, are here today because you like to bring your children to church. Older parishioners, tell me: doesn’t it warm you to see all the friends playing at coffee hour?

Now one of you is thinking: I don’t teach Greek school (I don’t have a dollar for the donation basket, either). Hello, I saw you come in—and a few like you—and thanks for being here. Do you know it means something to me that you’ve contributed your ears just now? Every Sunday, I imagine, Fr. Andrew or Fr. Emanuel stands where I’m standing and is grateful for even one more soul to address in the pews. The Gospel of Matthew 18:20 reads: “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” You’ve only contributed the presence of the Lord.

You’re chuckling. You’re looking at me askance. A couple of you have become very

serious all of a sudden. All I can offer, besides Scripture, is a suggestion: take it from me, who am of equivocal opinions—perceptions matter. In scientific studies of the very small, perceptions shape matter. And in Matthew 17:20, Jesus tells his disciples that faith as miniscule as a mustard seed has the ability to move mountains. A mustard tree is smaller than a mountain, but it is enormously larger than its seed, and whether your faith is a like a mustard tree or its seed is no clear indication of the effect you have had on us or will have. So far, in your role as steward, you are doing an acceptable job.

Sometimes we want to do more. It’s not unusual to feel inadequate, but nor is it the best solution. Matthew 6:21 lays out the axiom: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”—but if you consider too much the difficulty in acquiring treasure, in the first place, and sending it out from yourself, in the latter, then I would be surprised if that makes you feel very good. I love you and want you to be happy.

What if we agreed together that we are in the Vineyard of the Master of Creation, and it smells sweet, and outside the snow is melting. What more would it take for you to want to be here, to participate? Fill in the blank. When our heart is in the community, then we will want to help it grow. The time you donate to YAL will be time with your friends. The cooking you do in the kitchen will have us asking you for your recipe. The money you give will go right back in your pocket.

Or you could think of your generosity as a gift, as on Christmas, to members of your family. The Bible tells us in the beginning there was darkness, but if we open our eyes we see God has given us not only the gift of His Son but of the paradisiacal garden we thought lost to us. Allow yourself to perceive without embarrassment how proud you feel setting your alarm on Sunday morning and knotting a tie and loading your children in the minivan and bringing them to heaven. Whoever you think you are when you’re not here, and whomever and whatever you bring physically or spiritually with you, you really have ar-rived. You are doing His work, and benefiting someone or everyone. I saw you come in—I hope I looked you in the eye. I’m happy we are permitted to do God’s work together.

Oratorical Festival Review 

Congratulations to ALL our speakers, you have made us all Proud! 

Those Ranked:
Junior Division 1st Place—Katherine Mitrelis
2nd Place—Nathaniel Nichols
3rd Place—Demetri Petrou
Senior Division 1st Place—Alexandra Nichols
2nd Place—Eleni Mihailides
3rd Place—Leticia Lekos 

Other Orators
Elementary Division Savvina Arsenis, George Grammas, Damian Sarkis, Nathan Sarkis, Alex-ander Vanikiotis, Christopher Vanikiotis, Junior Division Anastasia Coclin, Juliana Mihailides, Katerina Mihailides, Senior Division Constantine Coclin, Sophia Sarkis.

Compliments to our Lenten Friday Readers 

We commend the following children of our Greek Language School for taking an active part in our Saluta-tion Service by reading prayers in Greek: Gianna Degaitas, Demetri Petrou, Eugenia Meltsakos, Christo-pher Lambros, Savvina Arsenis, Christopher Vanikiotis, Angela Marses and Alexander Vanikiotis.

Up-Coming Goya Activities (teens in grades 6-12)
Sat. April 22—Dance @ St. Katherine’s Parish , Braintree, MA
Sat. May 13—Brunch at our center (10 am) then making our Mother’s Day Flowers (Special Sr. Dance Troupe practice following 2-6 pm.)
Sat. June 10—Teen Outing at Colt State Park (watch for details)

Saint Spyridon Orthodox Christian Film Festival– Sat. July 8, 2017—9:30am
Films By Us, Films About Us, Films for Us, the Orthodox Christian Community.
Each summer Saint Spyridon sponsors the Saint Spyridon Orthodox Community Film Festival.
For more information, visit http://stspyridonchurch.org/filmfestival.html

Cranston Week @ MBC—Mon. July 24th Week
When Fr. Andrew will attend, but pick the week best for you.

Our Annual Vacation Church School (VCS) – Mon. July 31st week
Watch for details soon

PHILOPTOCHOS ANNUNCIATOR – APRIL, 2017 

Soon, we will be chanting and exchanging “Christos Anesti” greetings with our family and friends. And at the same time, Philoptochos is quietly doing the work of Philoptochos….helping those in need.

INTERNATIONAL PATIENT FROM GREECE IN RI: Recently, many Philopto-chos members and their families have reached out and assisted a young woman, 44 years old, the mother of a young, 14 year old boy, who is here from Greece for some very serious surgery. Our Philoptochos Chapter has extended a helping hand and warm welcome to Georgia, her husband Yianni, and her parents, Evangelia and Paskali. Un-fortunately, complications from her surgery have made it difficult for Georgia to return to Greece, and she will remain here with her parents until the end of May if her recu-peration proceeds as hoped for. Her husband, Yianni, returned to Greece prior to the complications to care for their young son. Philoptochos is assisting on all three levels to help this family with unexpected, everyday expenses. Our local Chapter, the Metropo-lis Philoptochos, and the National Philoptochos have lent a compassionate hand.

As the word spread regarding Georgia’s situation, many parishioners have expressed a desire to help. On Sunday, May 14th, Philoptochos will pass a special tray expressly for Georgia. We ask that you open your hearts and be generous. If you would like to send a check, please make it payable to Philoptochos, memo line Georgia Assistance, and mail to the Church office attention Philoptochos, Bessie Papigiotis. Thank you to all who have been so kind to this family.

VASILOPETA LUNCHEON REPORT: We are happy to report that our Vasilopeta Luncheon was an overwhelming success once again this year. A grateful thank you to Kate Silva, Roula Proyous, and Eleni Trikoulis who have chaired this Annual Lunch-eon for many years. A check in the amount of $5,500.00 will be sent to National Philoptochos for the St. Basil’s Vasilopeta obligation of our Chapter. Ke to chronou!!!

SENIOR CITIZENS LUNCHEON FRIDAY APRIL 21ST: As is the tradition for many years, Philoptochos will, once again, honor the Senior Citizens of our Parish, and host a luncheon on Friday, April 21st, following Liturgy (10:00 a.m.) for the Feast of the Life-Giving Fountain – Zoodoghos Pighes.

ALL SENIOR CITIZENS OF OUR PARISH ARE INVITED TO BE OUR GUESTS. 

Please make your reservation by calling Bessie Papigiotis 949-3240 or Georgia Pappas 351-3927. Co-Chairing also are Anna Demetrakas, Josie Aliferakis, Diane Mitrelis and Karen Drager.

SPECIAL EVENT WEDNESDAY EVENING, MAY 10th, at 7:00 p.m. DEMETRAKAS HALL – ANITA BAGLANEAS DEVLIN- SPEAKER: Anita Baglaneas Devlin will speak on her book S.O.B.E.R., a story of addiction and recovery of her son, Michael Devlin. This book will open the eyes of many to no longer hide shamefully from this disease. We encourage everyone….all ages…. to come hear this powerful story from Anita. Please bring your friends, neighbors or anyone who may be interested. This program is open to all. Anita grew up in the Pawtucket Parish until the age of 14, the daughter of the late Father Theodore Baglaneas and Presvytera Mary. Book signing will follow, and coffee and dessert will be served. Marianne Phelan, Chair of this event. Mark your calendars and other details will be announced very soon.

PHILOPTOCHOS CHAPTER ELECTIONS: On May 15th, the Philoptochos Board for the term 2017-2019 will be elected. At this time, our Philoptochos Chapter has reached a critical point in our journey of philanthropy. It is important that members come to participate in this election process, and then work to help our fellow-man in time of need. Our Screen-ing Committee will be calling various members to join the Philoptochos Board. Please respond YES! Please be sure your Philoptochos stewardship is paid and your parish stew-ardship is up to date. Thank you. 

METROPOLIS OF BOSTON PHILOPTOCHOS FUNDRAISER MAY 7, 2017: A Festi-val of Tables will be held at the Taxiarchae Parish Hall, Watertown, MA on Sunday, May 7th, 3-6 p.m. Tickets are $50. Please call Georgia Pappas 351-3927 or Bessie Papigiotis 949-3240 to make your reservation. Car Pooling will be available. It will be a fun afternoon. Please sup-port this event. Thank you.

NATIONAL PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS: Philoptochos experienced a record-breaking year with disbursements totaling $2,057,990 in 2016. The National Board of the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society announced “that as a result of the hard work of every Philopto-chos chapter across the nation and with the support of their entire parish families, funds totaling $2,057,990 were disbursed”. These donations are in addition to assistance provided by the Metropolises and individual chapters across the country. This is an amazing accomplish-ment. Thank you all.

DONATIONS AND OBLIGATIONS BY OUR PHILOPTOCHOS: National Philopto-chos: Social Services $350, Cancer Fund $300, Autism $100, St. Photios Shrine $100, Me-tropolis of Boston: FOS Program $100, Memorial Donation $100, ANNUNCIATION CHURCH: $5,000 Annual Donation, Sunday School, $1,000, Greek School, $1,000, Savvas Savvides Scholarship $200, Memorial Fund $75, Endowment Fund $25. And Assistance for medical needs $388.61. 

KALI ANASTASI KALO PASCHA
HAPPY EASTER 

Georgia Pappas, President
Karen Drager, Corresponding Secretary

23rd Annual GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE 
Sunday April 30, 2017
Parade begin at 1:00 pm
From Boylston St. to Charles St.

To reserve a seat on the bus from our parish, contact Anthony George @ 401-580-0112, email: ageorge711@yahoo.com

Concerning Parish Scholarships 

Applications for the “Annunciation Scholarship” (which encompasses the Christelis Goya, Stella Pappas, George Pakuris and Andrew/Helen Vican Awards) will be avail-able after April 18. The application process includes the submittal of the academic transcript and the writing of an essay. Deadline date to submit is May 23.

The Savvas Savvides Scholarship is a separate standing application process adminis-tered by a different committee as it has been for the past 40 plus years. These applica-tions will also be available after April 15 and also requires an academic transcript. Deadline date to submit is May 23.

Parishioner Congratulations 

Alexandra Goralski, daughter of Robert & Lorrie Goralski, has made the dean’s list at Ithaca College in Ithaca, NY. Ally earned a 3.7 for the fall semester. This is her Jr. year at the college.

Two New Parishioner Restaurants
Athens Diner @ 1449 Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence (co-owners are Peter Trikoulis and Mario Kirios)

YiaYia Maria’s @ 1674 Cranston St., Cranston (owner is Maria Zaharakos with her son Michael)

O D Y S S E Y D A N C E T R O U P E 2017 

Come and join Rhode Island’s finest Elementary Group: Ages 6-10 Greek Dance Troupe! Mondays: 6pm-7:30pm

First Practice: April 24, 2017

Meet other members who love Greek Dancing! Junior Group: Ages 11-13 Share in great fellowship and Mondays: 6pm-7:30pm meet some wonderful people! First Practice: April 24, 2017 Expose yourself or your child to a wonderful environment Senior Group: Ages 14 & up and culture! Thursdays: 6:30pm-8:30pm First Practice: March 30, 2017

CONTACT US
if you are interested in joining
odysseydancetroupe@gmail.com
Koula & Savva Rougas

Calendar – April thru Early May 2017 

Divine Services (year round) Orthros (morning prayer) 8:15 am / Liturgy 9:30 am 

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Wed April 5— Pre-Sanctified Liturgy– 6PM / Choir Practice—7:30PM

Thur April 6—Sr Dance Troupe—6:30PM

Sat April 8- Saturday of Lazaros—usual morning hours – followed by brunch and palms weaving

Sun April 16—HOLY PASCHA—Agape Vespers—12Noon – followed by Children’s Easter Egg Hunt 

Mon April 17- Yal Meeting—7:30PM (location to be announced)

Tue April 18- Parish Council Meeting—7:30PM

Wed April 19- Phase 2 Meeting—7:30PM

Thu April 20- Sr Dance Troupe—6:30PM

Fri April 21- Life Giving Fountain (ZOODOCHOS PEGHI) – Special Times: 9am Orthros / 10am Liturgy, Luncheon Following, by reservation

– Yal (Paint & Vino) – watch for details 

Sat April 22- IOCC (International Orthodox Christian Charities) FUND RAISER
5PM—Pan-Orthodox Vespers / 6PM-Dinner

Sun April 23—Antipascha / Apostle Thomas Sunday / Great Martyr George – Goya Meeting after Church School

Mon April 24– Start Date for Elementary & Junior Dance Troupe—6PM Philoptochos Board– 6:15PM / General Membership—7PM

Tues April 25- Pastry Preparation for Spring Food Fair -5PM / Ahepa—7PM

Wed April 26- Pastry Preparation for Spring Food Fair -5PM / Choir Practice—6:30PM

Thu April 27- Sr Dance Troupe—6:30PM

Sat April 29- District Oratorical Festival (Assumption Parish-Pawtucket—10am)

Sun April 30— 3rd Sun of Pascha / Myrrh Bearers / James of Zebedee

MEMORIALS: Charles Gionis-40 days, Eleftheria Perdikakis-40days, Solon Chris-1 yr, Charles Allendorf, MD– 1 yr Dennis H. Psilopoulos—20 yrs

– Parade in Boston—1PM

Mon May 1- Goya Advisors & Officers—6:30PM

Tue May 2- Metropolis District Leadership Seminar—6PM (at our parish) 

Sat May 6— GREEK FOOD FAIR / 11AM—7 PM 

Sun May 7—Sun 4 of Pascha / Paralytic Sunday / Martyr Akakios

MEMORIAL: Peter Lekos—20 yrs

GREEK FOOD FAIR / 11AM—6 PM

LENTEN PASTORAL MESSAGE FROM FR ANDREW 

I greet you with words of encouragement that this Great Lenten Season may be a bless-ing to you and your loved ones as we seek to grow in Christ.

The Old Testament book of Genesis states that God created man then He breathed life into him. He gave Him a body then a soul. A current church author, Nicholas Cabasi-las, states that “there is nothing more sacred than humanity”. For only humanity was created in His image and likeness of God and was given the privilege to know God.

Humanity was also endowed with inner reason, and free will. Animals react to their needs out of instinct. When they are hungry they kill to eat. But humans also experi-ence these same feelings and emotions but when we utilize reason and logic we control these feelings rather than, them controlling us. This is what distinguishes us from the rest of God’s creation.

The various stories in the news are frightening. They bring before us examples where humanity acts like an animal carrying out atrocious acts against their brothers and sis-ters and not simply in far away lands but in the USA as well. How alarming and sad.

God created us both with body and soul. We are a physical and a spiritual reality. Our society seeks to impress upon us the importance of the outer person, the body. There are so many diets to make us look fit. Cosmetics to make us look young. Yet all of that remains behind when our earthly days end.

Our Orthodox tradition, although acknowledging the importance of the body as “the temple to the Holy Spirit’, it goes on to teach us that the soul is more important. We become like God when the soul, when reason, has control over the body, over the pas-sions. We know many times what is the right thing to do, yet doing it is so difficult. We know what we must do to please God yet to actually do it seems so impossible.

Yet we also know that with God, nothing is impossible! Lent connects us to God more completely, so that we can grow in our Christian experience by nurturing the soul.

St Paul reminds us today in (Romans ch13:11) You know what hour it is, how it is full time now, for you to wake from sleep… the night is far gone, the day is at hand. 

St. Paul also exhorts us: to cast off the works of darkness and to put on the armour of light, to walk honestly as in the day, fleeing drunkenness, debauchery and the lusts of the flesh. Paul links this theme of the flesh to the theme of fasting. One person believes that he may eat all things; another eats only herbs. Let not him that eats despise him who does not, and let not him who does not eat, judge him who does. Who are you to judge another? Both you and he are dependent on the same Master.

We need to remember my beloved that: 

The fast of the church is actually the APPLICATION OF DISCIPLINE.

Fasting is not prescribed by the Church to make people suffer. But, rather to aid the Christian to control the body, their life and the passions of life.

We fast from various foods, yes, simply to let our spiritual mind control our physical self.

We must also fast from sin of word, deed and thought, of what is seen, read, heard and spoken. Year round of course > Lent is sort of a “reminder” or, a renewal if we had eased off in our general food fasting.

The gospel for the liturgy, taken from St. Matthew (6:14-2 1), quoting Jesus, opens with the precept of forgiveness:

“If ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” 

The fact that the Church has chosen this saying to introduce the gospel for the day before Great Lent begins, shows that she intends to make forgiveness the dominant theme as we enter Lent.

The Bible in fact is filled with numerous verses on this topic of forgiveness, knowing that for some people, it is hard to do.

Thus various exhortations are given on the topic and the importance of forgiveness:

I Cor 13:5—Love does not keep a record of wrongs 

Col 3:13—Bear with each other & forgive whatever grievance you may have against one another. 

Romans 13:8—We owe no one anything, except to love one another. 

Truth he said– life does have it’s hard moments and friction between people, casual friends and even direct family members, from time to time.

Even Christ was betrayed by one of His Apostles.

So yes—from time to time, we might be hurt by someone’s actions, But what we do with that hurt, is more important than the hurt itself.

The first step is to let go of the lingering resentment, don’t ruminate over it; pray for that person who hurt or betrayed you (realizing that at another time and situation, you may have hurt someone as well).

Forgive and don’t hold a grudge. Forgiving will set you free! It is in essence, de-ciding that the other person, or that particular event, no longer has power over you.

Forgiveness in essence is ultimately, a sign of strength; Christian empowerment! Christ clearly taught forgiveness and numerous Saints present it as well in their writings. I share one example—from the writings of St. John of Kronstadt:

“Love every person in spite of his falling into sin. Never mind the sins, remember that the person is still the image of God. Other people’s weaknesses strike us, but we too are not without evil — perhaps, even there is more in us than in others. At least in respect to sin, people are equal: ‘For all have sinned and come short of the Glory of God.’

Therefore, besides loving each other, we must bear with each other, and pardon each other, in order that we also may be forgiven. Therefore, with all your soul, honor and love in every person the image of God, not regarding his sins, for God alone is holy, God alone is without sin, and see how much He loves us, how much He has created and still creates for us, punishing us mercifully and forgiving us so abundantly. Honor the person also, in spite of his sins because he can always amend.” (1908 AD)

+

Beloved in the Lord— Great Lent is upon us once again! It is a very special time of the year, filled with so many opportunities for renewal and growth when we live its tenants and accept its challenges. Use lent to Grow!

It is a 6 week period filled with extra services containing glorious and ever meaningful hymns, prayers and scripture readings that are presented only during lent. Come for them; don’t overlook them! Please don’t make your growth and your participation be an impossibility! Let the soul (our spiritual nature) control the body!

Parish Council Officers 2017
Kevin Phelan, President
Theofanis Markos, Vice President
Elaine Otto, Secretary
James Silva, Treasurer
Paraskevi Devlin, Asst. Treasurer

(Continuing Members)
Elaine Crabtree, Anthony George, Dina Mihos, Dean Perdikakis, Paul Pliakas

(Newly Elected Members)
Alexander Carr, Jason Maintanis from the Parish Assembly.

There was an open position not filled by the Assembly and thus the new 2017 parish council appointed Gail Erinakes to fill that position.

We also wish to thank the departing council members Peter Manis, Dennis Sampalis and Stephen Sterpis for their service and commitment. 

ORTHODOX OBSERVER NEWSPAPER 

In regards to receiving the Observer from the Archdiocese – if a parishioner would like to receive the monthly issues the parish office simply needs to verify for you that you are in our stewardship program and the newspaper is then complimentary. If you are not, there is a fee for the newspaper to be delivered.

Subscribing for Archdiocese News Releases 

Communicants may also subscribe to the Archdiocese “List Serve” to receive their news releases automatically Press Office. Contact communications@goarch.org to sign up or call 212-570-3530.

Moving or Vacationing 

We kindly thank you for making the Annunciation Church your first place to call when moving to a new location or just going to enjoy some warm sun for the winter months. Last month we had 21 “return to sender envelopes” come back. (401) 942-4188 or email us, office@annunciationri.org

Think Spring / Then, Think Spring Food Fair Preparations 

Before we know it our Spring Greek Food Fair will be here (Sat/Sun May 6-7). Baking preparations will begin in March. Mark the dates from now.

Thank you for your anticipated help.
Monday 3/27 – Spanakopita/ Tyropita / Tuesday 3/28 – Baklava
Monday 4/24 pastry / Tuesday 4/25 pastry
(New start time – 5PM – light meal will be provided)

Since our last newsletter, the following pledges have been received for 2016: M/M John Fotopoulos, M/M Theodoros Fotopoulos, M/M Alexander Kanelos, Andrea O’Hair

2017 PLEDGE PROGRAM REPORT
We have to date 217 parishioners with a pledge of $120,135.00
The Actual Amount Received is $77,025.00 

Josephine Aliferakis, M/M Andreas Andreopoulos, M/M James Apostolou, Nicholas Apostolou, Nicole Arsenis, Dr. & Mrs. Peter Baziotis, M/M Scott Campbell, M/M Michael Campopiano, M/M Ronald Capraro, Maria Chippis, M/M George Cicma, Sue Cimino, M/M Stephen Cross, M/M Kimon Dafoulas, Nikki Samaras Deary, M/M Douglas DeRhodes, Olga DiChiara, Helen DiMaio, Louis Dostou, Constantine Georas, Alexis George, Fr. Andrew George, Anthony George, James George, Debra Georgeon, Helen Georgeon, Barbara Goldis, M/M Robert Goralski, M/M Nicholas Gorgievski, Anna Gountra, M/M Constantine Grammas, William Grimshaw, Dr. John & Helene Grossomanides, M/M William Hague, M/M John Hatjopoulos, Ann Heberg, M/M Peter Kanelakos, M/M Arthur Kazianis, Demetra Lambros, M/M Nicholas Lambros, M/M Mark Lavoie, Linda Limperis, Sandra Maliangos, M/M Peter Mihalos, Jean Mihelakos, M/M Andrew Mitrelis, M/M Richard Mitson, Mrs. Andrea O’Hair, M/M Richard Otto, Evgenia Panteleakis, M/M Michael Papigiotis, M/M George Paloukas, M/M Theodoros Panagopoulos, Nicoletta Panos, M/M Arthur Pappas, M/M Ernest Pappas, Georgia Pappas, Dr. & Mrs. James Pascalides, M/M Arthur Passa, Dr. & Mrs. Peter Petropoulos, M/M Demetrios Petrou, M/M Gus Proyous, Stephen Quinn, Lydia Regopoulos, M/M Youssef Rizk, M/M Alan Root, Mary Samaras, M/M Phillip SanSouci, M/M Anthony Silveira Jr., Calliope Kay Spires, M/M Leon Stamatakos, M/M Georgios Theodosiou, M/M Richard Towne, Sophia Tzanetos, Andriana Vanikiotis, Anthony Vanikiotis, Antonia Vanikiotis, M/M John Vanikiotis, M/M Michael Venditelli, Adam Vinhateiro, M/M Manuel Vinhateiro Jr., James Vose, M/M Jason Wheatley, M/M Russell Wheatley, and Maria Zaharakos.

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. (Psalm 1: 1-4) 

THE SACRAMENT OF CONFESSION is frequented by many during the Great Lent, although confessions can be heard at any time of the year. Each Wednesday of Lent, Fr. Andrew will be available by advance appointment. Other days and times may be scheduled simply by calling Fr. Andrew directly. Fr. Emanuel will be available for Confessions on Fridays by advance appointment. Our faithful are reminded that they may also seek confession with any other Orthodox clergy at our neighboring parishes.

Dr. Mary Despina Lekas Endowment Fund News
Financial Report for the period ending 1/31/17
Endowment Fund Portfolio: $783,031.49
Endowment Fund Checking Account: $22,138.28

A donation has been made to the Endowment Fund by
M/M Ernest Pappas & Georgia Pappas in memory of Angela Promades 

A donation has been made by M/M Gregory Demetrakas, M/M Ernest Pappas & Georgia Pappas in memory of Maryanna Floskis 

A donation has been made by M/M Constantine Rougas in memory of Nikolitsa Tsamis

Taxes! Taxes! Taxes!
A reminder that donations made to a non-profit organization, such as our church, can have substantial tax benefits! 

Respectfully Submitted,
Mary Samaras

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PHASE 2 

Our fund-raising effort is in full swing. In last month’s edition of “The Annunciator” it was noted that we had received a total of $126,242.00 in pledges. As of the printing of this report we have now have reached a total of $138,942.00 in total pledges. A total of 69 pledges have been submitted to date. Below is a list of those pledges we have received since last month’s report.

Order Of AHEPA, Steven Drager, M/M Elias Haralambides, M/M James Manis, Jean Mihelakos, John & Maha Mitrelis, M/M Jimmy Petrou, M/M Gus Proyous, Angela & Phillip San Souci, M/M James Silva, Carole Xanthakis. 

Thank you all for your support and generous donations. – Submitted by James Silva 

Recent Deaths 

Maryanna Floskis, age 85 of Warwick, RI passed away on 2/1/17. Her funeral and burial was held on 2/7/17. Antonia Giannakakos (Gannek), age 90 of Narragansett, RI passed away on 2/18/17. Her funeral and burial was held on 2/27/17. NikolitsaT-samis, age 93 of North Providence, RI passed away on 2/21/17, mother of parish-ioner Angela Vasiliadis. Her funeral and burial was held in Worcester on 2/28/17. ALSO: John Drager, brother of parishioner Steven Drager passed away In CA with services held there; Margaret Violet, sister of parishioner Nicoletta Panos. Her funer-al and burial was at St. Spyridon’s in Newport on 2/28/17.

CHILDRENS’ CONFESSIONS DURING LENT 

Our youth are urged to avail themselves of this important Sacrament (be it during Lent or any time of the year). An appointment can be made with Fr Andrew for just about any day by plan-ning ahead, for Fr Emanuel, the appointment would be for a Friday. Call 942-4188.

ANNUAL SCHOOL PROGRAMS 

St John Chysostom Oratorical Festival – Sun March 12, following Liturgy, sponsored by our Sunday Church School. The community is invited to remain and be inspired by our teens in their witnessing to the Orthodox Faith through their orations.

Annunciation / Greek Independence Program- Sun March 26, following Liturgy, spon-sored by our Afternoon Greek Language School. Again the community is invited to re-main and enjoy the children with their songs, poems and dance; equally inspiring!

GOYA ACTIVITIES AHEAD (6th-12th graders) 

March Bowling 

Join Goya on Saturday March 18th from 1:30 to 3:30 for a Bowling Event. We will be bowling at CW Lanes in Lincoln. 622 George Washington Highway. The admission price will be $13.50 a person. To RSVP please call Jimmy Grammas at 401-965-6017.

April Lock in 

Goya will be holding the first Lock in of 2017 from Saturday April 1st to Sunday April 2nd. The Lock in will start at noon. Join us for a day of community, fun, and spiritual enrichment. Price for the Lock in will be $15 to cover food and activity costs. More information to follow.

May Brunch 

The Saturday before Mother’s Day, Saturday May 13th, we will be having brunch at the hall then preparing the gifts for all the mothers. Join us for nice breakfast then help us make our Mother’s Day presents so that we can say thank you to all our mothers. More information to follow.

DANCE TROUPE NEWS 

Coming your way soon will be the Dance Troupe practice schedule.

REMINDER– Every Thursday 

Watch the weekly edition of “BE THE BEE” from our Archdiocese Youth Office. Visit- youtube.com/y2am

CRANSTON WEEK @ MBC – Mon July 24 week when Fr Andrew will attend but pick the week best for your schedule 

GREAT LENT HAS STARTED
THE ULTIMATE GOAL OF GREAT LENT IS: 

PREPARATION, yes; RENEWAL, yes with the hope that we can all grow clos-er to God, and establish a great love of God and of man. The Church asks us all to “CLEAN HOUSE,” to clean up our lives wherever it is needed to estab-lish a CHANGE OF LIFE, to IMPROVE OUR LIFE from a Christian perspec-tive. 

OFFER THIS PRAYER DAILY: 

O Lord Master of my life! Take from me the spirit of sloth, faint-heartedness, lust of power and idle talk. 

But give rather the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to thy servant. 

Yea, Lord and King! Grant me to see my own errors and not to judge my brother; 

For thou are blessed unto ages of ages, Amen! 

~Prayer of St. Ephrem

During the season of Great Lent, our faithful are reminded that there are addi-tional Liturgical services during the week: on Wednesday evenings we offer the Pre-Sanctified Liturgy at 6 pm. Of course each Friday we have the ever beauti-ful Salutations Services also at 6 pm with the participation of the children of our Greek Language School. On Sunday evenings we will have the combined Lenten Vespers with other Orthodox clergy at various par-ishes. Refer to the calendar page for these locations. 

WHY MORE CHURCH SERVICE ??? 

The limitation of social functions and the institution of more church services is based on the Church’s principle that GREAT LENT is a period of time when people are to be more conscious of their spiritual character and their contact with God. The Lenten Evening Services are very meditative so as to provide the faithful with the opportunity to REALLY REVIEW and RENEW their lives. 

A BLESSED GREAT LENT TO ALL 

 

Lazaros Saturday to Pascha 

Sat., April 8 Saturday of Lazaros / Church School Communion
8:15 am – Orthros
9:20 am – Forgiveness Prayers
9:30 am – Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sun., April 9 Palm Sunday / Entrance to Jerusalem
8:15 am – Orthros
9:20 am – Forgiveness Prayers
9:30 am – Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom with distribution of Palms

Sunday Evening: 7:00 pm – 8:15 pm— Nymphios Service 

Mon., April 10 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm— Nymphios Service/Forgiveness Prayers afterwards

Tues., April 11 7:00 pm – 8:45 pm— Nymphios Service/Forgiveness Prayers afterwards

Wed., April 12 The Sacrament of Holy Oil (Euchailion)
4:00 pm – 5:15 pm— Followed by anointing (especially for families w/ children)
7:00 pm – 8:45 pm— Nymphios Service — Followed by anointing

Thurs., April 13 Commemoration of the Mystical Supper
6:00 am – 7:45 am— Vesper / Liturgy of St. Basil
Communion to be distributed within the proper context of the liturgy

THE PASSION OF OUR LORD / SERVICE OF THE CRUCIFIXION
(Thursday Evening) 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm Reading of the 12 Gospel Narratives And Procession of the Crucifixion

Fri., April 14 Holy and Great Friday
10:00 am – 11:45 am- Service of the Royal Hours (Teens as readers) Simultaneously the decoration of the Tomb
4:00 pm – 5:15 pm— Service of the Descent from the Cross
7:30 pm – 10:30 pm— Service of the Lamentations w/Procession

Sat., April 15 Holy & Great Saturday / Discovery of the Empty Tomb
9:00am – 10:45am— Vesper / Liturgy of St. Basil
Communion will be distributed within the proper context of the liturgy
11:00 pm— Chanting of the Paschal Canon Please arrive early giving yourself time to park your car and enter the Church which will take extra time due to the large number of people who normally attend.
11:45 pm – 2:15 am – Paschal Orthros & Resurrection Liturgy 

Sun., April 16 Holy Pascha (Easter Sunday)
Noon—1:00 pm—Agape Vespers
(Gospel Read in Various languages of the World)
Children’s Easter Egg Hunt follows at 1:00 PM

PHILOPTOCHOS ANNUNCIATOR
MARCH-APRIL, 2017 

We are in the middle of our Lenten Journey, and Philoptochos will be very busy with many activities leading up to Pascha. Also on our calendar of events, is the Feast of the Annunciation, our Parish Feast Day.

RECEPTION FOLLOWING ANNUNCIATION VESPERS – MARCH 24TH: Philoptochos will host a reception following our Vespers this evening. Please bring any Lenten refreshments to the Church Cen-ter prior to the Vespers. Nancy Harritos is Chairing this event, and you may email Nancy to let her know what you will be donating. NHarritos@yahoo.com. Thank you.

EASTER BREADS: Orders will be taken for Easter Breads on Sundays at the Coffee Hour follow-ing Divine Liturgy. Helen Quinn Argeris and Mary Quinn will be taking your orders. Please call Helen at 1-508-337-3697 to place your order. Breads will be available for pick up on Palm Sunday, April 9th.

EASTER EGGS FOR DYEING: We will distribute eggs, netting, ribbon and dye, along with in-structions on dyeing the eggs. We will distribute these on Saturday of Lazarus and Palm Sunday and ask that you take a dozen or two and dye them for distribution at the Anastasi (Resurrection) Saturday night. Please follow the dyeing instructions to be sure the eggs are hard boiled. Thank you very much.

EPITAFIOS DECORATION: We invite all women to come and assist with the decoration of the Epitafios. It looks beautiful each year, and we thank Koula Rougas for undertaking the organizing of the Epitafios for many years.

SENIOR CITIZENS LUNCHEON: Each year, Philoptochos honors our Senior Citizens by hosting a Luncheon on Friday following Easter. This year our Luncheon will be on Friday, April 21st, following Divine Liturgy for Zoodoghos Peghes, Feast of the Lifegiving Fountain. ALL SENIOR CITIZENS are invited to come. Please circle the date, and details will be announced. Co-Chairing the Luncheon are An-na Demetrakas, Bessie Papigiotis, Josie Aliferakis, Karen Aliferakis and Diane Mitrelis.

OPERATION HEARTWARMING BASKETS: We are asking for your donations, once again, for Phase 2 of Operation Heartwarming for our homeless veterans. Thank you to all who donated baskets or items for baskets during Phase 1 of this Project. Items now needed are twin size bed pillows, twin bed blankets, bath towels, cloth shower mats, sets of silverware for 4, cooking utensils, coffee maker, twin size bed sheets, sets of plastic dishware & cups, electric fans, twin size bed covers, non-slip inside shower mats, toaster ovens, pots & pans, manual can openers, sponges, all purpose cleaners, laundry detergent, paper towels. Marianne Phelan is heading this project, and you may email or call Marianne with any questions marianne.phelan@gmail.com or 943-9201. Donations may be dropped off at the Church Center. Thank you all so very much on behalf of our Veterans.

METROPOLIS OF BOSTON PHILOPTOHOS FUND RAISER SUNDAY, MAY 7TH – The Metrop-olis Philoptochos invites you to the FESTIVAL OF TABLES, on Sunday afternoon, May 7th, at the Taxiar-chae Parish Center, Watertown, Ma. from 3-6PM. Please circle the date, and plan to come. Car pooling will be available. Please contact Bessie Papigiotis or Marianne Phelan with any questions. Details will be announced soon. Thank you.

The next Philoptochos meeting will be held on March 20th, 2017

A Blessed Great Lent and Kali Anastasi to all.
GEORGIA PAPPAS, PRESIDENT
KAREN DRAGER, CORRESPONDING

SAVE THE DATE SAT. APRIL 22
IOCC Buffet following Vespers @ 5 pm.
IOCC.ORG / CRANSTON
Questions? Elaine Otto—401-692-9326 or nitsa1028@hotmail.com 

Easter Breads 

Chairladies Mary Quinn and Helen Argeris will be taking orders for Easter Breads after Liturgy starting March 19th. Orders also may be taken by calling Helen Argeris at 508-337-3697. Please consider purchasing a loaf at $10.00 each in support of our commitment to Hellenic College/Holy Cross. Breads will be distributed on Palm Sunday, April 9, 2017.

Annual Annunciation Observance Luncheon And Children’s Program
Sunday March 26, 2017
Following Divine Liturgy
Luncheon Time: 11:30 AM

Join us at the luncheon to commemorate Our Parish Feast Day and Greek Independence Day
Shrimp & Rice Dinner $15.00 / Macaroni & Sauce Only$ 8.00
Both meals come with salad & dessert
For Reservations Call Church Office at 942-4188 or Jim & Kate Silva 946-1935

 

 

 

Ypapanti—The Presentation of the Lord in the Temple 

One of the major feast days of our Holy Orthodox Church is the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple. It occurs forty days after the Nativity of our Savior on the second of February, at a time when we come to an end of a series of feasts that have taken us through the darkness of the long and cold winter nights, a series of feasts bringing out different aspects of God’s search or outreach to us: the Word becoming flesh in the small dark cave in the depths of the earth; the manifestation of God to us through the passage through the waters.

Now in obedience to the Mosaic Law, forty days after his birth, Christ, the firstborn son, is brought to the Temple so that He might complete the Law, and the Law might be completed by Him. The Blessed Mother of God, the Theotokos, and Joseph to whom she was espoused, left Nazareth and journeyed to Jerusalem to present the Christ-child in the magnificent Temple of Solomon. It was required by Jewish law to make an offering for the new Child. As Joseph and the Theotokos were very poor people, they brought with them two small turtle doves, as illus-trated in the icon for the Feast. At that time, those who were wealthy offered money or a small animal to be sacrificed.

Being brought to the Temple, He is met by the righteous elder Simeon and the prophetess Anna: the old now passes, and the new has come. The place where they meet, where the old meets the new and the new is revealed, is in the Temple, the place to which Jesus is brought as a sacrifice. The elder Simeon was a very pious, humble, just, and devout man, a man of holi-ness. It was revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that although he was old, he would not see death until he saw the Christ. When the Theotokos and Joseph entered the Temple, this dedi-cated servant of God received the Christ-child in his arms, and the prophecy of Isaiah was ful-filled: Christ is brought in the Temple and He rests in the arms of the elder as on a throne.

At this, Simeon utters the words: “Lord, now let your servant depart in peace, according to Your word, for my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared before the face of all people: a light to enlighten the Gentiles and the glory of Your people, Israel.”

Israel’s glory has dawned in Christ, who is the light of revelation to the Gentiles. Now that Israel has accomplished its task of bringing the Messiah into the world, Simeon can depart in peace: the promises made in the beginning to Abraham about the calling of the nations are now fulfilled. In Abraham’s seed all nations of the world are now blessed.

Simeon blessed Joseph and the Theotokos and then said to them, “Behold, this Child is des-tined to be the cause for all the fall and rise of many in Israel.” He prophesied that those who believe in Christ will be exalted and saved while those who do not believe will be degraded. To the Theotokos he added, “And your heart shall be pierced by a sword.” He did not mean an actual sword would pierce her heart, but that her heart would experience an excruciating pain when she witnesses the Crucifixion and sees her Son suffering and dying upon the Cross.

As for Anna, who was a widow of many years and a prophetess, she was also pious and humble, advanced in age, and remained in the Temple day and night fasting and praying. When the presentation of the Lord occurred, she gave thanks unto God and then spoke to many people who lived in Jerusalem who were awaiting the redemption from their trials, tribulations, and sins.

The advanced age of the righteous elder and the prophetess indicate the passing away of the ancient customs, the rituals and prescriptions, for these were only ever, as the Apostle puts it, a shadow of the good things to come. The reality belongs to Christ, the one who was received into the arms of the elder, the one who was to cause the fall and rising again of many in Israel, who thus bestows upon us the resur-rection, the new creation. Today then, standing in the Temple with Simeon, we come indeed to the com-pletion of the movement of God towards us, so that we can also say: let us depart in peace, for the glory of God is revealed, enlightening those who sat in darkness. If this movement of God towards us is in-deed light coming into the world, enlightening those who sit in darkness, then we must begin to set our own sights upon the journey to Jerusalem.

The light of God is indeed also the peace of God. We too must begin to see the Lord as Simeon did, to know that He is indeed our rest; to find in him the peace that keeps us in peace throughout the storms of the sea of life; to be at rest in Him rather than be blown about from one crisis to the next, from one emotional bruise to another; and to be focused on Him, rather than on the thoughts which preoccupy us, each one seeming so important at the time, and leading to yet more habituated actions that we know we will regret. Let us pray that like Simeon we may learn to meet Jesus in the Temple, that we might find in Him the completion of our heart’s desire, and ourselves come to know His mercy and peace.

+Rev. Dr. Emanuel S. Chris, M.D., M. Div.

Hail O Woman full of grace, Virgin and Mother of God: from you has arisen the Sun of Justice, Christ our God, enlightening those who stand in darkness. You too, just Elder Simeon, rejoice, for you carried in your arms the Redeemer of our souls, our Resurrection.

O Christ our God who through your birth have sanc-tified the virginal womb and have now blessed the arms of Simeon, today You have come to save us. O Lord, when wars prevail, keep your people in peace and strengthen our Public Authorities in eve-ry good deed, for You alone are the Lover of Man

We Thank You for Your Thanksgiving Donations 

Josephine Aliferakis, Elaine Allendorf. M/M Dimitrios Arsenis, Chrisoula Arsoniadis, M/M Zisis Arsoniadis, Dr. & Mrs. Peter Baziotis, Nicholas Bouris, M/M Michael Campopiano, Sue Cimino, M/M George Coclin, M/M Thomas Coyne, M/M Constantinos Dafoulas, M/M Gaby Daiaa, M/M Wilfred Demars, Louis Dostou, Rev. Andrew George, M/M Constantine Grammas, M/M Carl Hague, M/M Elias Haralambides, M/M Michael Haralambides, M/M Demetrios Harritos, M/M Christopher Hoopis, Julie Karahalios, James Kripotos, Niki Kyrou, Angelo Lazarides, M/M William Lehourites, Dr. & Mrs. James Manis, Peter Manis, Elizabeth Marses, Marianthi Mastriano, M/M Emmanuel Mihailides, M/M George Mihailides, M/M Andrew Mitrelis, Anne Morrell, Dr. & Mrs. Kenneth Morrissey, M/M Harry Nicolopoulos, Theodore Nicolopoulos, M/M Michael Papigiotis, M/M Ernest Pappas, Mary Pereira, Thomai Petropoulos, M/M Kevin Phelan, M/M Anthony Piscopio, M/M Carroll Promades, Nanci Sarganis, M/M Ernest Sotirakos, M/M Michael Sotirakos, Elle Strekouras, M/M Edward Tarbox, Dr. Golfo Tzilos, Antonia Vanikiotis, Carole Xanthakis, Maria Zaharakos, M/M Frank Zavota.

Total donations were $1,975.00 

Thank You for Your Christmas Donations 

Josephine Aliferakis, Elaine Allendorf, M/M Christodoulos Andriotis, M/M Dionysius Argeris, M/M Dimitrios Arsenis, Dr. & Mrs. Peter Baziotis, Nicholas Bouris, M/M Michael Campopiano, Sue Cimino, Dr. Constantinou & Mr. Santos, M/M Constantinos Dafoulas, M/M Thomas Coyne, M/M Gaby Daiaa, M/M James Demetriou, M/M Douglas DeRhodes, Rev. Andrew George, Constance Georgeadys, Argiri Ghionis, M/M Constantine Grammas, M/M George Grammas, M/M Nicholas Hantzakos, M/M Elias Haralambides, M/M Michael Haralambides, Alexis Harritos, M/M Demetrios Harritos, James Harritos II, Dr. & Mrs. Michael Johnson, Julie Karahalios, Zoe Kazianis, James Kripotos, M/M Spiro Kyriakakis, Niki Kyrou, Angelo Lazarides, M/M William Lehourites, Dr. & Mrs. James Manis, Peter Manis, Elizabeth Marses, Marianthi Mastriano, M/M Emmanuel Mihailides, M/M George Mihailides, Jean Mihelakos, M/M Andrew Mitrelis, M/M Theodore Moran, Dr. & Mrs. Kenneth Morrissey, M/M Harry Nicolopoulos, Theodore Nicolopoulos, M/M Ernest Pappas, M/M James Pappas, Mary Pereira, Thomai Petropoulos, M/M Kevin Phelan, Dorothy Pliakas, M/M Gus Proyous, John Quinn, Mary Quinn, M/M James Rengigas, M/M Stamatios Revis, M/M Steven Rothemich, M/M Nicholas Sarkis, Christopher Sheehan, M/M Peter Simone, M/M Michael Sotirakos, Elle Strekouras, Ethel Strekouras, M/M Aristotelis Tsonis, Sophia Tzanetos, Antonia Vanikiotis, Dr. & Mrs. Michael Vezeridis, James Vose, Carol Xanthakis, Zambeta Xiarhos.

Total donations were $2,445.00

Dr. Mary Despina Lekas Endowment Fund News
Be Proud! 

As we continue our journey into the life of our church’s savings account-The Endowment Fund– we can do so with pride as evidenced by the end-of-the-year 2016 financial report shown below:
2016 Opening Balance-$761,381.00
2016 Donations-$20,740.00
2016 Interest Earned $23,797.00
2016 Ending Balance-$805,918.00 

We are getting closer to the goal of $1,000,000.00, bravely established by those forward-thinking parishioners attending the Parish Assembly of December, 1998. To them, we owe a huge depth of gratitude! Be Proud! 

Donations since the last newsletter were made to the Endowment Fund by:
Dr. Mary Lekas.
A donation was made by Nicholas Apostolou in memory of Irene Apostolou.
A donation was made by M/M Gregory Demetrakas, Elizabeth Marses, M/M Constantine Rougas, Kay Spires in memory of Angela Promades
A donation was made by M/M Constantine Rougas, M/M John Vanikiotis in memory of Amina Kivotopoulou. 

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Donors for Christmas / Epiphany Liturgical Items 

We would like to thank the following for their generous donations towards the wreaths, icon floral frames, poinsettias and candelabras during the Christmas and Epiphany Sea-son: The Topouzis Family (in memory of Liselotte Topouzis); M/M Arthur G. Pappas & M/M Basil Constantine (in memory of Kay Pappas); M/M James Manis (in memory of George & Helen Manis & in memory of Elias Bassakyros & Trigona Liakos); M/M Paul Degaitas (in memory of father John Degaitas and brother Stanley Degaitas); Afrodite Fotopoulos, children and grandchildren (in memory of husband, dad and grandfather George) and M/M Nickiforos Revis, as well as general monetary con-tributions in memory of Harriet Butler for Epiphany candelabras.

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RECENT DEATHS 

Angela Promades, age 80 of Bristol, RI passed away on 12/18/16. Her funeral and burial was held on 12/21/16. Frank Panos, age 88 of Cranston, RI passed away on 1/21/17. Memorial Prayers were offered on Jan 25. Also the mothers of 3 of our parish-ioners passed on recently, Dr William Tsiaras, Eleni Trikoulis and Richard Otto. In ad-dition the grandfather of Douglas DeRhodes one of our newest parishioners. May their memories be eternal.

2016 PLEDGE PROGRAM REPORT
We have to date 469 parishioners with the pledge of $232,707.00
The Actual amount received to date is $226,045.02 

Dr. & Mrs. Eleftherios Alexandrou, M/M Artur Amaral Jr., M/M Ilias Arsenis, Nicholas Bouris, M/M Richard Campanella, Sherri Cesario, M/M Paul Degaitas, Jason DiCarlo, M/M Steven DiDino, M/M Spiros Fotopoulos, M/M Gregory Gatos, M/M Antonis Gavrielides, Maria Giovanis, Dr. & Mrs. Cosmo Haralambidis, M/M Brendan Hermiz, Dr. & Mrs. Theodore Kanelos, Athena Karacas, M/M Demetrios Ladas, Dr. Andrew Lekos, M/M Robert Leonard, Theodora Maniatakos, Artemis Mantsos, M/M Christos Mantsos, Smaro Mantsos, M/M John Menard, M/M Stephen Michailides, John Mihelakos, M/M George Moragemos, M/M Craig Nichols, Eleni Panteleakis, Lorena Pesek, M/M Petros Petrou, Elaine Regopoulos, M/M Stamatis Reves, M/M William Rougas, Konstantina Sampalis, M/M Richard Scott, Patricia Skoutas, Theodora Stone, M/M Alan Swierk, Kay Tomson, M/M Christopher Tribelli, William Vanech, M/M Kenneth White.

2017 STEWARDSHIP PLEDGES
We have to date 134 parishioners with the pledge of $75,715.00
The actual amount received is $53,670.00 

M/M James Alexion, Elaine Allendorf, Christina Arsenis, M/M Dimitrios Arsenis, Kyriaki Arsoniadis, M/M Savvas Arsoniadis, Yiota Bertrand, M/M Lawrence Bousquet Jr., M/M James Brubeck, Anastasia Brun, M/M Alexander Carr & Katherine Carr, Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Carr, Efthimia Cavas, Dr. & Mrs. Christopher Chihlas, Dr. & Mrs. Spiros Constantinides, M/M Thomas Coyne, M/M Richard Cragin, M/M Constantinos Dafoulas, Haralambos Dafoulas, M/M Gaby Daiaa, M/M Steve Daras, M/M Wilfred Demars, M/M James Demetriou, M/M Joseph DiCarlo, III, Cynthia Driscoll, Maria Dygon, Drs. Nicholas & Sadie Elisseou, M/M Stephan Erinakes, M/M Louis Feula, M/M Nicholas Filippou, M/M Steven Filippou, Arthur Frank, Janice George, Constance Georgeadys, Michael Giouras, Dionisia Grammas, Eleni Grammas, Elizabeth Grammas, Nicole Grammas, M/M Carl Hague, Dr. & Mrs. Cosmo Haralambidis, M.M Elias Haralambides, M/M Michael Haralambides, M/M Michael Haveles, Peter Hoopis, Jonathan Janikies, Melissa Janikies, M/M Nicholas Janikies, M/M William Janikies, Karissa Karageorge, M/M Fotis Karageorgos, Julie Karahalios, Despina Kartson, M/M Michael Kirios, M/M Kostas Kritikos, Angelo Lazarides, M/M William Lehourites, M/M Peter Leite, Eugenia Lekos, Drs. Robert & Kathryne Leonard, Jason Maintanis, Dr. & Mrs. James Manis, M/M Vasilios Malatos, M/M Theofanis Markos, Elizabeth Marses, M/M Robert Masiello, M/M John Massenzio, M/M Vasilios Melanis, George Michailides, M/M Emmanuel Mihailides, M/M George Mihailides Jr., Gregory Mihailides, M/M George Mihailides, M/M William Mitchell, Anne Morrell, Theodore Nicolopoulos, M/M Alexi Nikolaidis, M/M George Nonis, M/M Stephen Panichas, George Panteleakis, M/M Constantine Papaioanno, M/M Gus Pappas, M/M James Pappas, M/M John Paraskevakos, M/M Constantinos Perdikakis, M/M Dean Perdikakis, Giana Perdikakis, Mary Pereira, Thomai Petropoulos, M/M Polydoros Petrou, M/M Kevin Phelan, M/M Anthony Pierson, Lillian Placido, Dorothy Pliakas, M/M George Pli-akas, M/M Thomas Pontikes, Christ Poulos, Dr. Michael Prodromou, M/M Michael Psikakos, John Quinn, Mary Quinn, M/M Brian Rawlinson, M/M Lyle Rawlinson, M/M Damon Ray, M/M James Rebello III, Joanna Reves, M/M Constantine Rougas, M/M George Samatis, M/M Matthew Sampson, Shirley Sears, Bianca Sinapi, M/M Timothy Simonson, M/M Michael Sotirakos, Elle Strekouras, Ethel Strekouras, Vasilios Strekouras, M/M Edmund Sullivan, M/M Nicholas Tanionos, Lynda Theroux, Dean Trigg, M/M Scott Tsagarakis, Dr. & Mrs. William Tsiaras, M/M John Turini, M/M Soterios Tsimikas, Dr. Golfo Tzilos, M/M Dean Vose, M/M Nondas Zarokostas, M/M Frank Zavota.

Corporate Stewardship
Thank you to Steven Drager, Stephanie DiSumma, Alexandra & Kassandra Drager for their Corporate Stewardship (Quick Stop, Inc.)

“Recent Goya Ski / Snowboarding Day” Saturday, January 21, 2017

JUST AHEAD—God Parent’s Luncheon—Sun Feb 5 

Our Goyans extend an invitation to all at attend their annual luncheon observing “GodParent/GodChild Sunday” following liturgy that morning. RSVP to Christian Mitrelis at 401-632-1000, or by email at christianmit1999@outlook.com

METROPOLIS OF BOSTON WINTER CAMP 

The always exciting President’s weekend “winter camp session” for our teen youth up in Contoocook, NH will begin Fri evening Feb 17. Visit www.mbcamp.org for details, or call 603-746-2132.

ORATORICAL MATERIALS 

Topic themes for this year’s Oratorical Festival have been distributed in Sunday School classes. Copies can be requested from Maria Coclin, our parish chairperson at 944-7894, or at <mariacoclin@aol.com> Our parish festival will be Sun March 12.

The Financial Corner 

The year 2016 has passed so we can now look at the actual revenues and ex-penses for the past year. The actual stewardship revenues were $10,164.00 un-der budget. Since we have rented our hall so frequently and since we have a new tenant, “The Faith Nursey”, our revenues from rentals exceeded the budget by $12,692.00. Total revenues for the year were $90,387.00 higher than what was budgeted. The reason of course was because we transferred $80,000.00 from the Festival Account to pay our bills on time.

2016 INCOME ACTUAL BUDGET
Stewardship $247,336.64 $257,500.00
Total Envelopes $ 13,418.95 $ 15,500.00
Sunday Collections $ 66,282.01 $ 65,300.00
Special Fund Raisers $ 82,836.79 $72,500.00
Special Contributions $ 22,183.28 $ 23,900.00
Sundry Receipts $ 12,437.44 $ 12,100.00
Hall Rentals $ 42,592.00 $ 29,900.00
Festival Transfers $ 80,000.00 $ 00.000
TOTAL INCOME $567,087.15 $476,700.00

On the expense side, total expenses were $13,632.23 under budget.

2016 EXPENSES ACTUAL BUDGET
World Mission Ministries $ 57,758.94 $ 58,150.00
Education Ministry $ 35,543.11 $ 35,770.00
Music & Worship Ministry $ 35,474.05 $ 36,282.00
Pastoral Expenses (2 priest) $149,109.06 $149,700.00
Youth Ministry $ 6,277.62 $ 9,300.00
Administrative Expenses $ 89,763.11 $ 91,750.00
Building & Grounds $ 57,992.74 $ 62,150.00
Parish Center $ 8,650.66 $ 8,800.00
Social Function Expenses $ 38,384.70 $ 38,000.00
Utilities $ 35,106.14 $ 40,050.00
Hall Rental Expenses $ 5,499.78 $ 3,250.00
TOTAL EXPENSES $576,270.01 $589,902.24

Submitted by James Silva

ADULT STUDY OPPORTUNITIES AHEAD 

New 4 Week Bible Study in February

Our next parish Bible Study Series will focus on the topic of “Baptism”. As we are about to enter the season of Great Lent, we are reminded that the ancient roots of Lent was the time when candidates for baptism were prepared. And as lent ended, then baptized. Both Fr Andrew and our sem-inary graduate Emile Sarkis will review various bible passages and other texts related to Baptism and it’s living expression in our adult lives. Come and learn how much more there is to it then we often realize. THURSDAYS—Feb 2, 9, 16 and 23, from 7:30—9PM.

Words & Wings—Thu Feb 9

A “Q&A” with Orthodox Clergy

The Orthodox church has a rich 2000 year history and its perspective and teachings are valuable to the world today. Come for Q & A with several clergy … bring your questions and hear the Words of the Church and en-joy some “wings” on us. Mystic Pizza, at 56 W. Main St in Mystic, CT will be the location of this gathering sponsored by the St Sophia Parish of New London, CT who invites all young adults to attend.

Adult Seminar at Assumption Parish—Pawtucket 

From Monday February 27 to Monday April 3, a six week adult class will be offered on the following subjects:

1.Hellenism and Judaism / Athens and Jerusalem. Their different perspectives, their historic encounter and their contribution to Western Civilization. (running 3 weeks) 

2.The Orthodox meditation on the Jesus prayer (Νοερα Προσευχη) v. the modern Mindful Stress Reduction Meditation techniques. Similarities and differences. (the second set of 3 weeks) 

These classes will run from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. For further information call John Lyssi-katos, theological graduate of the University of Thessaloniki, at 401-728-4452

ECCLESIASTICAL REVIEW 

Marriages 2016: 

Constantinos Haralambros Dafoulas to Dadriana Alexandria Lepore both from Cranston on March 3.
Constantine Dean John Perdikakis from Cranston to Melissa Sue Adley from N. Kingstown on June 4.
Vasilios Harritos to Sherry Marie Rose both from W. Warwick on June 9.
David Alexander Cragin to Fallon Marie Guertin both from Warwick on June 11.
Spiros Haritos to Dianne Marie Hodson both from Warwick on June 18.
Spyridon Riley Papaioannou to Angelina Maria Perez both from Cranston on July 1.
John Richard Michaliadis from Garner, NC to Michelle Janjay Soben from Providence on July 2.
Andrew Thomas Plunkett to Petrina Francesca Pappas both from Titisville, NJ. on July 3.
Jason Scott Savoie from Portsmouth to Ioanna Anastasia Dafoulas from E. Greenwich on July 17.
Brendan Alain Hermiz to Patty Chrisoval Aftosmes both from W. Warwick on July 31.
Stefanos Svitlitsas to Marigo Anastasios Georgitsis both from N. Providence on Sept. 4.
Richard Joseph Town from Riverside to Dolly Mnayarji from Woonsocket on Sept 17.
Ryan Meggison from S. Dartmouth to Christina Sotira Nikolaidis from Sagamore Beach, MA on Oct. 8.
Scott Edward Campbell to Kristin Ruth Sampalis both from Esmond on Oct. 9.
Stavros George Theodosiou from Cranston to Maria Alaina Langlios from Taunton on Oct. 15.
Marcus Anthony Cacchillo to Dawn Alyson Pappas both from E. Greenwich on Oct. 23.
James Michael Fitzgerald to Diana Irene Otto both from Boston on Nov. 5 (at Retreat Center in NH)
Mathew David Sampson to Eleni Hatzinikolaou both from Providence on Nov. 5.
Nickiforos Nick Tarbox from Warwick to Kahla Jean Elias from Cumberland on Nov. 6.

CROWN THEM WITH GLORY AND HONOR
May the Lord Bless you out of Zion and may you see the good things of Jerusalem all the days of your life.

2016 Ecclesiastical Report 

Baptisms: 

Athena Alexandria, daughter of Constantinos & Dadriana Dafoulas on March 5. Godparent was Ioanna Dafoulas.

Savannah Lee, daughter of Cody & Madison Callahan on March 13. Godparents were Heidi & Nick Bosh.

Xenia Marie daughter of Stephen & Rosetta Botsford on March 19. Godparent was Spyridoula Giannos.

Keegan Santoro, son of Jeffrey Brown & Alexis Santoro on March 19. Godparent was Anthony Santoro.

George Gregory son of Gregory & Mandinia Gatos on April 24. Godparent was Eleni Tsigaridas.

Lena Loren daughter of Nikolaos & Gianna Petropoulos on May 7. Godparent was Louis Feula.

Nicholas Savvas, son of Steven & Tricia Rougas, on May 22. Godparent was Elizabeth Grammas.

Reid John, son of Matthew & Kathryn Massenzio, on May 28. Godparent was Christopher Massenzio.

Cristiano Apostolos, son of Daniel & Alexandria Cardosa on June 5. Godparent was Cassondra Cardosa.

Selena Georgia, daughter of Artur & Nickie Amaral on June 12. Godparents—Eleni Fotopoulos & George Potsis.

Kaitlyn Ann, daughter of Gregory & Christine Fraginis on July 23. Godparent was Krisane Karagianis.

Joseph Saher, son of Saher & Fida Abu Aiba, on August 27. Godparent was Sary Awwad.

Joleen Lourdes, daughter of Sary & Suhair Awwad on August 27. Godparents were Majdi & Rula Alkazaha.

Hercules Athanasios, son of Athanasios & Lauren Bovis on August 28. Godparent was Catherine Bio.

Maxwell Wallace, son of Peter & Mallory Barth on September 17. Godparent was Nicholas Malkasian.

Nikoletta Xenia, daughter of Demetrios & Vanessa Ladas on Sept 18. Godparents-Konstantina & Kishore Siva.

Georgia Elizabeth, daughter of David Carroll & Linda Pappola on Sept25. Godparent was Marina Daszkiewicz.

Margaret Lidia, daughter of Panagiotis Trikoulis & Megan Celani on October 22. Godparent- Stephen Morrissey.

Alexandra Elizabeth, daughter of Damon & Rhea Ray on November 6. Godparents—Vassilios & Ioanna Chrysan-thopoulos.

Konstantinos Charbel son of Evangelos & Josiane Giovanis on December 4. Godparents were Nomikou Kalliope & Toni Shalhoub.

Melina Katerina daughter of Peter & Eleni Xiarhos on December 11. Godparent was George Trikoulis. Victoria Elizabeth daughter of George & Julie Trikoulis on December 11. Godparent was Stelios Trikoulis.

Adult Baptisms: 

Brendan Alain Hermiz, (taking the name Athanasios) on May 10. Godparent was Marlene Samra.

Richard Joseph Towne on July 16. Godparent was Tina Varras.

Julie Ly on July 24 (taking the name Eleni). Godparent was Tina Varras.

Chrismations (Adult Conversions) 

Erika Revis on March 2 from the Methodist Church. Sponsor was Frangeska Revis.

Nicholas Bosh on March 12 from the Catholic Church. Sponsor was Vikki Poulos.

Liselotte Topouzis on March 13 from the Lutheran Church. Sponsor was Liza Petrou.

Melissa Sue Adley on May 4 from the Catholic Church. Sponsor was Giana Perdikakis.

Tara Sterpis on July 24 from the Catholic Church. Sponsor was Maha Mitrelis.

Steven Bennett III on September 29 from the Methodist Church. Sponsor was Maria Pavlidou.

Maryann Wheatley on December 11 from the Catholic Church. Sponsor was Josie Aliferakis.

Sacraments Ahead In 2017 and 2018 

With the Phase 2 Program in motion for the various renovations to take place in church, especially the carpet replacement and pew refinishing, it would be beneficial for planning purposes to structure stretches of time when there would be no disruption in the church for the serving of Baptisms and Weddings. If we can collect anticipated dates for late 2017 and early 2018 it would be very helpful. Please contact Fr. Andrew.

PHILOPTOCHOS ANNUNCIATOR – FEBRUARY, 2017 

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL! As we begin the year 2017 Philoptochos contin-ues on its journey of PHILANTHROPY. Our Annual Vasilopeta Luncheon for the benefit of the children of St. Basil’s Academy was held on Sunday, January 22nd, immediately following Divine Liturgy. This is a wonderful family luncheon which is enjoyed every year by our Parish Family and had over 200 people in attendance. Many thanks to Kate Silva who chaired this event and to Roula Proyous and Eleni Trikoulis. Also to the members who helped serve and to the cooks in the kitchen who made a delicious meal.

CHRISTMAS PARTY: Our Christmas celebration was held on the evening of December 8th at the Mile and a Quarter Restaurant. Thank you to our host and hostess Diane and Andy Mitrelis for all the special amenities they contributed to our evening. We would also like to thank Karen Drager and Josie Aliferakis for planning an even-ing enjoyed by all. Ke tou chronou!

CHRISTMAS VISITATIONS: Over the Christmas season, Philoptochos ladies accompanied Father Andrew and Father Emanuel as visits were made to our housebound and nursing home parishioners. Gifts were prepared by Ginger Pappas, Georgia Pappas, Anna Demetrakas and Bessie Papigiotis. . Thank you to Josie Aliferakis, Elizabeth Degaitas, Carol Rothemich, Bessie Papigiotis, Georgia Pappas and Koula Rougas, who took the time during this busy season to show compassion and kindness (true work of Philoptochos) to these parishioners.

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY: We continue with this project headed by Anna Demetrakas. This project is ongoing. At this time, we need baby blankets for the 40-day Baby Blessing Bags and Prayer Shawls. Yarn will be provided. Crocheting and knitting is being done at home during the winter months. We will resume meeting on Monday mornings now that the holidays are over. Thank you to Koula Rougas, Maria Zaharakos, Diane DiCarlo, Bessie Papigiotis, and Anna Demetrakas who continually participate in this Ministry. Thank you to Ann Heberg and Ginger Pappas for preparing the 40-Day Blessing Baby Bags.

MEMBERSHIP: The New Year 2017 is here and we remind you to be sure to send your membership to the Church Office attention Philoptochos/Mary Samaras. Please keep in mind when remitting your membership that $15 per capita is sent to the National Philoptochos and $5 per capita is sent to the Metropolis Philoptochos. Thank you.

SISTERHOOD OF ST. BASIL’S: We remind you also to support the Sisterhood of St. Basil’s by sending in $5 to the Church Office attention Philoptochos/Carol Rothemich.

DONATIONS AND OBLIGATIONS: We ended the Philoptochos year with the following donations and obli-gations: National Philoptochos –Ecumenical Patriarchate $100; Ecumenical Patriarchate tray collection $350; Sister-hood of Presvyteres Benevolent Fund $100; General Medical Fund $100; UNICEF $100; Metropolis of Boston Camp and Retreat Center $300; Interfaith Food Ministry $500; Elizabeth Buffum Chase House $75; Hospice Care of RI $100; Samaritans $100.

OPERATION HOUSEWARMING-HOMELESS VETERANS’ PROJECT – We are continuing with this project once again. If anyone would like to donate a complete basket, the cost is $100. If you have any questions, please contact President Georgia Pappas at 351-3927. Thank you to all that have contributed in any way thus far.

A Very Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year to all!! 

GEORGIA PAPPAS, PRESIDENT
KAREN DRAGER, CORRESPONDING SECRETARY

SAVE THE DATE— Sun April 30— showing of the film “Beneath The Olive Tree.”

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PHASE 2 

As you know we have completed the installation of the new Platytera iconography. I think everyone will agree it is very moving and is beautiful. The total cost associ-ated with the preparation work, the design and installation of the iconography and painting of the Apse was $56,307.50.

Our official fund raising effort is in full swing. In last month’s edition of “The An-nunciator” it was noted that we had received a total of $102,042.00 in pledges. As of January 25, we have now reached a total of $126,242.00 in total pledges.

Below is a list of those pledges we have received since last month’s report.

Josephine Aliferakis, Nicholas Apostolou, M/M Gerald Carignan, Vivian Dafou-las, M/M John Fotopoulos, Costa & Kathy Grammas, Dr. John & Anna & Helene Grossomanides, M/M Michael Haveles, Ernest & Aldina Kanelakos, Julie Kara-halios, M/M James Maintanis, M/M Emmanuel Mihailides, Andrew & Lise Mihailides, M/M George Moragemos, Richard & Elaine Otto, M/M Arthur Pap-pas, Michael & Elaine Psikakos, Constantine & Koula & Andrew Rougas, Wil-liam & Angela Rougas, Ethel Strekouras, Elle Strekouras, Vasilios Strekouras, Kay Tomson, M/M Christopher Tribelli,

Thank you all for your support & generous donations. Submitted by James Silva 

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OCF-The Real Break Program of the Orthodox Christian Fellowship Campus Ministry is a one-of-a-kind alternative spring break program for Orthodox high school graduates between 18-25 years old. OCF’s Real Break program provides young adults with the opportunity to understand the true meaning of seeing Christ in the other– person-traveling to all parts of the world deepening their faith, serving those in need, and cultivating relation-ships with like-minded peers. For more information or to register; www.ocf.net/real-break-2017

of Greek Festival Planning to Begin—Feb 8 

We will begin Festival Planning meetings earlier than usual this year—Wed Feb 8 at 7:30PM. YOU ARE INVITED. It would be great to have additional parishioners serv-ing and taking hands on involvement, serving with our long time festival committee members. Don’t be shy. Come and offer your talents and your time!

Orthodoxy 101 Class to Form 

A new cycle of our regular 4-part series on Orthodoxy will start up soon, which is in-tended for non-Orthodox desiring to learn the basics of Orthodox Christianity (with the potential intend to embrace the Church) as well as, those born and raised Orthodox Christians who would like to strengthen their knowledge of the basic tenants. If you have interest to register for this class, we would like to establish a common day and time to hold it for those expressing interest. We are charting for spring to run the se-ries. Please contact Fr Andrew 942-4188.

Community Viewings of Fr. Luke Veronis Video
“Bringing Orthodoxy to America” 

To kick-off the formulation of a Strategic Plan for our Parish to foster growth and re-newal of the community, three viewings of Fr. Luke Veronis’ thought-provoking talk, “Bringing Orthodoxy to America” will be held in Demetrakas Hall of the Mihai-lides Center on:

Sun Feb 19 (after coffee hour) / Fri Feb 24 @ 7PM / Fri March 3 (after the Salutation Service) 

Father Luke gave this talk at 2 recent national conferences. He is a noted Greek Ortho-dox Priest and missionary. Fr. Luke has served the Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Webster, MA since December 2004 which has grown from 90 families to presently 175 families. Fr. Luke has been involved in the Orthodox Church’s missionary movement since 1987 and served as a long-term cross-cultural missionary in Albania and as a short-term missionary in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Ghana.

Father Veronis’ video is just over a hour long, and after we view the video as a group, we will discuss his ideas and how some of them could be applied to Parish initiatives and help us to formulate a vision for the future of our Annunciation Parish.

If you would be interested in participating, please plan to attend one of the viewings and community discussions. The evenings’ programs, video viewing and discussion, will each last 2 hours. Coffee and a few snacks will be provided both evenings, by the Parish Council. We look forward to seeing many of you there. – On behalf of the parish council, Paul Pliakas