The Monthly Newsletter of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Dayton, Ohio
MAY 2015
VOLUME 10
ISSUE 21
Is Pentecost the Birthday of the Church?
It is a common misconception that Pentecost is the birthday of the Church. The
following section from the Pentecostarion translated by Holy Transfiguration
Monastery in Brookline, MA speaks of the actual significance of Pentecost and
what it means for our ecclesiology.
Such, therefore, are the reasons for today's feast: the coming of the All-holy Spirit
into the world, the completion of the Lord Jesus Christ's promise, and the fulfilment of
the hope of the sacred disciples, which we celebrate today. This is the final feast of the
great mystery and dispensation of God's incarnation. On this last, and great, and saving
day of Pentecost, the Apostles of the Savior, who were unlearned fishermen, made
wise now of a sudden by the Holy Spirit, clearly and with divine authority spoke the
heavenly doctrines. They became heralds of the truth and teachers of the whole world.
On this day they were ordained and began their apostleship, of which the salvation of
those three thousand souls in one day was the comely and marvelous first fruit.
Some erroneously hold that Pentecost is the "birthday of the Church." But this is not
true, for the teaching of the Holy Fathers is that the Church existed before all other
things. In the second vision of The Shepherd of Hermas we read: "Now brethren, a
revelation was made to me in my sleep by a youth of exceeding fair form, who said to
me, `Whom do you think is the aged woman, from whom you received the book, is?' I
say, 'The Sibyl.' 'You are wrong,' he said, `she is not.'
IN THIS ISSUE:
`Who then is she?' I say. `The Church,' he said. I said to him, `Wherefore then is she aged?'
'Because,' he said, `she was created before all things; therefore is she aged, and for her sake the
Is Pentecost the Birthday
world was framed."' Saint Gregory the Theologian also speaks of "the Church of Christ ... both
of the Church?
1
before Christ and after Christ" (PG 35:1108-9). Saint Epiphanius of Cyprus writes, "The Catholic
Parish Registry
3
Church, which exists from the ages, is revealed most clearly in the incarnate advent of Christ" (PG
Liturgical Schedule
3
42:640). Saint John Damascene observes, "The Holy Catholic Church of God, therefore, is the
assembly of the holy Fathers, Patriarchs, Prophets, Apostles, Evangelists, and Martyrs who have
Ministries and
been from the very beginning, to whom were added all the nations who believed with one accord"
Organizations
4
(PG 96, 1357c). According to Saint Gregory the Theologian, "The Prophets established the Church,
Faith In Action
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the Apostles conjoined it, and the Evangelists set it in order" (PG 35, 589 A). The Church existed
News and Notes
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from the creation of the Angels, for the Angels came into existence before the creation of the
world, and they have always been members of the Church. Saint Clement, Bishop of Rome, says in
Stewardship
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his second epistle to the Corinthians, the Church "was created before the sun and moon"; and a
Calendar
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little further on, "The Church exists not now for the first time, but has been from the beginning" (II
--------------------------------------------------------------------Cor. 14).
That which came to pass at Pentecost, then, was the ordination of the Apostles, the
commencement of the apostolic preaching to the nations, and the inauguration of the priesthood
of the new Israel. Saint Cyril of Alexandria says that "Our Lord Jesus Christ herein ordained the
instructors and teachers of the world and the stewards of His divine Mysteries ... showing together
with the dignity of Apostleship, the incomparable glory of the authority given them ...Revealing
them to be splendid with the great dignity of the Apostleship and showing them forth as both
stewards and priests of the divine altars . . . they became fit to initiate others through the
enlightening guidance of the Holy Spirit" (PG 74, 708-712). Saint Gregory Palamas says, "Now,
therefore ... the Holy Spirit descended ... showing the…. (Continued on page 2)
The True Vine is a monthly
publication
with
special
editions of The Annunciation
Greek Orthodox Church 500
Belmonte Park North Dayton,
OH 45405-4797 Office Hours
Mon. – Fri. 9am – 5pm - Tel.:
937-224-0601
www.daytonannunciation.org
THE TRUE VINE
MAY 2015 | Page 2
… (Continued from previous page) Disciples to be supernal luminaries ... and the distributed grace of the Divine Spirit came through
the ordination of the Apostles upon their successors" (Homily 24, 10). And Saint Sophronius, Bishop of Jerusalem, writes, "After the
visitation of the Comforter, the Apostles became high priests" (PG 87, 3981B). Therefore, together with the baptism of the Holy
Spirit which came upon them who were present in the upper chamber, which the Lord had foretold as recorded in the Acts, "ye shall
be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days hence" (Acts 1:5), the Apostles were also appointed and raised to the high priestly
rank, according to Saint John Chrysostom (PG 60, 21). On this day commenced the celebration of the Holy Eucharist by which we
become "partakers of the Divine Nature" (II Peter 1:4). For before Pentecost, it is said of the Apostles and disciples only that they
abode in "prayer and supplication" (Acts 1:14); it is only after the coming of the Holy Spirit that they persevered in the "breaking of
bread, "that is, the communion of the Holy Mysteries-"and in prayer" (Acts 2:42).
The feast of holy Pentecost, therefore, determined the beginning of the priesthood of grace, not the beginning of the Church.
Henceforth, the Apostles proclaimed the good tidings "in country and town," preaching and baptizing and appointing shepherds,
imparting the priesthood to them whom they judged were worthy to minister, as Saint Clement writes in his first Epistle to the
Corinthians (I Cor. 42).
All foods are allowed during the week following Pentecost until the beginning of the Apostles Fast the following week.
DISMISSAL HYMN OF PENTECOST
Blessed are You, O Christ our God, who made fishermen all-wise, sending upon them the Holy Spirit and, through them, netting the
world. O Loving One, glory to You.
KONTAKION OF THE FEAST
When the Most High came down and confounded tongues of men (Babel), He divided the Nations. When He dispensed the Tongues
of Fire, He called all to unity, and with one voice we glorify the Most Holy Spirit.
CHRIST IS RISEN!
Lenten Season,
Holy Week and
Pascha
TRULY HE IS RISEN!
Fr. Mark and the Parish Council wish to express their thanks and appreciation to the following for their great
generosity, having lovingly donated items for Great Lent, Holy Week and Pascha.
Helen Anton
Diane and Bob Briggs
David and Andrea Casey
Catechism School
Mary Caudell
Nick Demetre
Derksen Family
Laurence and Ava Emroll
Nikki Burns and Bob Feldmann
Tina Fote in memory of Cleo Stamas
Jodie and George Gianopulos
Alex and Joan Gounaris
Connie, Margaret and Joey Hodson
Anna and Mike Jackson
Berdi Kakas
Helen Karkadoulias
Cindy and Mark Keilholz
Maria Mavrouleas
Sue Morris
Mary and John McDonald
Cleo Mullins in Memory of her husband Ray Mullins
Chris and Deb Pulos
Karen Redovian in memory of Janet Richards
Dr. Thomas & Angela Retzios
Lori Vavul-Roediger in memory of Judith, Mary, George Vavul
Theona Russell in memory of Mary Dimitriou and Olympia Collis
John and Mary Searles
Connie and Jim Xarhoulacos
Nick and Teddi Xenos
In Memory of Margaret Krandall and Julia Zavakos
We also thank those who donated anonymously throughout the Lenten Season, Holy Week and Pascha. Our sincere
gratitude to all who responded to our request for flowers adorning the Epitaphio and Easter Lilies; additionally we
would like to thank GAPA for the the beautiful Palm Trees which adorned our church; we also give thanks for the
Karras family for their generous donation of 700 eggs in memory of Pete, Jim and Andy Karras.
THE TRUE VINE
MAY 2015 | Page 3
Liturgical Schedule for the Month of May
Matins 8:15 am
Sun.
Sun.
Sun.
Thurs.
Sun.
Sat.
3rd
10th
17th
21st
24th
30th
Sun.
31st
Divine Liturgy 9:30 am
4th Sunday from Pascha (Sunday of the Paralytic)
5th Sunday from Pascha (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman)
6th Sunday from Pascha (Sunday of the Blind Man)
Feast of the Ascension and Feast of SS. Constantine and Helen
7th Sunday from Pascha (Sunday of the Fathers)
Saturday before Pentecost (Saturday of Souls- Divine Liturgy and Memorial at
Woodland Cemetery, weather permitting) 9:30 am Divine Liturgy
8th Sunday from Pascha (HOLY PENTECOST- Kneeling Service after Divine Liturgy)
MEMORIALS IN
MAY
PARISH REGISTRY
40 Day Blessing
Sunday, April 19
th
Colleen Gromek and son
rd
3
+Nicholas F. Karras
+Georgia James Thurman
+Joseph A. George
ORTHODOX NATURAL CHURCH DEVELOPMENT (ONCD)
By Gus Liapis
During last summers’ Clergy/Laity Congress, two Outreach workshops were presented as a possible response to improving church
attendance.
In the 1990’s, a researcher found that 80% of churches studied had falling attendance. Describing the reasons why were
complicated and seemed unrelated to similar churches. The researcher then starting studying the 20% of the churches that were
growing and found eight characteristics that those churches shared.
From those results, a process was developed to invite churches to participate and through a survey given to a subset of the parish
members, the survey results would identify how any church compared to the eight characteristics of growing churches. See
brochure inserted in this newsletter.
Parish Council has voted to participate in this process and will host Father Jonathan Ivanoff, one of the presenters at the
Clergy/Laity Congress, to a parish wide discussion on Friday June 5, 2015. Father Ivanoff will present the details of this process, how
the survey works, how the results are scored and answer any questions about the process that anyone has.
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On Saturday, June 6 , Father Ivanoff will instruct a parish working group (Church Health Team composed of about 8 parish
members plus Father Mark) in the process of implementing the results of the survey into actions focused on improving the
characteristic that our parish scored lowest.
This process and survey can be conducted on a yearly basis tracking parish improvement. We encourage all parish members to
RSVP and attend the parish wide presentation by Father Ivanoff and participate in the working groups that will be a part of this
important effort that could determine the future growth of our parish. Please RSVP to Carol at the church office or to Maria Abboud
at [email protected].
THE TRUE VINE
MAY 2015 | Page 4
Ministries and Organizations
GREEK FESTIVAL
The next festival meeting is Tuesday, May 5, 2015 at 7: 00 p.m.. If you would like to volunteer or have any questions, call Harry or
Linda at 435-0399 or Missy at 219-4211.
CATECHISM SCHOOL
Catechism School will need a Kindergarten Teacher for 5 year olds beginning on Sunday, September 20. If you would like to
volunteer for this rewarding position please contact Fr. Mark 224-0601 or Connie Mellas H) 294-6125 C) 694-6558.
AHEPA
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AHEPA will meet Tuesday May 19 at 6:30 p.m. in the Athenagoras Room.
CHOIR
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May Choir Rehearsal Date and Time: May 27 7:00 p.m.
DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE
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Daughters will meet Tuesday, May 12 at 6:30 p.m. in the Athenagoras Room.
DIFI (Dayton International Festival)
DIFI is May 15-17, 2015 at the Dayton Convention Center. Please speak to Demetri Nicholas or Pete Tsolometes to schedule your
time to volunteer as we share our culture with the greater Dayton community. This will be Demetri and Pete's final year
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chairing. We are seeking a new chair(s) "in training". The baking schedule is as follows: Baklava Baking: May 11 ,
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Baklava Packaging: May 12 Connie Yorgen, Chair.
GAPA
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GAPA will meet Tuesday, May 19 at 1:00 p.m. in the Athenagoras Room – This is the last meeting before summer break.
GOYA
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GOYA will meet Sunday, May 3 after Divine Liturgy.
JOY ACTIVITY
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Friday, May 8 Movie Night also make Mother’s Day cards. (Bring mom’s picture and a picture of her favorite Icon to add to card)
PHILOPTOCHOS
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Philoptochos Membership Meeting will be Thursday, May 7 at 10:00 a.m. in the Athenagoras Room.
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Reminder: Pick up your flower or vegetable orders on Thursday, May 7 between 12:00-4:00 p.m. Any questions, call Mary
McDonald 272-5962
THE COMMUNITY CARE MINISTRY FOR MAY IS THE BIG BROTHER AND BIG SISTER PROGRAM.
The Big Sister Big Brother Program helps children realize their potential and build their futures. They nurture children and strengthen
communities. The program improves the lives of children facing adversity by providing strong and enduring, professionally
supported 1-to-1 mentoring relationships. Together, with their community partners, they will mentor 640 children towards lifelong
success in 2015. Please support this month’s CCM and help little brothers and little sisters with a monetary donation. The co-chairs
are Diane Briggs-836-8228 and Ruthann Zavakos-294-5766.
WISH LIST ITEMS Gift Cards/Tickets/Discount Cards to help create potential activities for Bigs and Littles; examples: Gift Cards to
Restaurants, Museums, etc. Tickets to sporting events like Reds, Bengals, Dragons, college basketball, and college football games
Tickets to Schuster Center events and other cultural/arts events for Bigs and Littles Craft supplies for Bigs and Littles to make things
Books for Littles to read (elementary and middle school; new or like new) Games, bicycles, sports equipment (new or like new)
Auction/Incentive prizes for fundraising events.
YOUNG AT HEART
st
The date for Young At Heart Senior Citizens’ Luncheon is THURSDAY, MAY 21 at 11:30 a.m. in the Memorial Center, sponsored by
Daughters of Penelope and AHEPA.
rd
May 3
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May 10
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May 17
May 19
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Classes meet / All Saints Fair
Classes meet / Mother’s Day
Last Day of Classes / Awards
Students go directly to class 9:30 am
Divine Liturgy, Communion / Awards
Teacher’s Appreciation Dinner
6:00 pm at Bravo Restaurant
THE TRUE VINE
MAY 2015 | Page 5
FAITH IN ACTION
PHILOPTOCHOS NEWS – MAY 2015
th
9 ANNUAL ANNUNCIATION LADIES SPRING CHARITY

It was a beautiful Lenten Season and our deepest appreciation and
blessings to Father Mark. Thank you to those who helped with
Saturday of Lazarus making palms (a good turn-out of adults and
children!), preparation of the red eggs, decoration of the beautiful
Kouvouklion, and filling the many needs of Holy Week. Your
generosity and participation are deeply appreciated.
The Palm Sunday luncheon benefiting Hellenic College/Holy Cross
Theological Seminary resulted in a $2,000 donation to the
seminary. Many thanks to Theona Russell and her mighty crew for
a beautiful luncheon and fun raffle.
CCM FOR APRIL THE 14
CHEST, Sunday, April 19
TH
BIRTHDAY OF HANNAH’S TREASURE
Thank you to Renee Nicholas and Kathy Spyrou, for chairing the
collection of “almost everything for children”, newborn through
size 18 – clothes, shoes, bedding, cribs, car seats, highchairs,
diapers, books and toys – as well as monetary donations. Hannah’s
Treasure Chest is a non -profit organization that enriches the lives
of children in need through partner agencies in Butler, Greene,
Montgomery and Warren counties. We are proud to be a part of
supporting their worthwhile mission. We also appreciated having
their executive director speak at our April membership meeting.
LUNCHEON
SATURDAY, MAY 9, AT THE MORAINE COUNTRY CLUB
11:00 a.m. Fabulous Raffle and Social Hour
12 Noon Equally Fabulous Luncheon
Patrons: $75 (includes 1 adult ticket)
Ladies: $20
Girls: $10
Are you coming to our luncheon? We are asking Philoptochos
members to sign up for a short 20 minute shift at the raffle table.
Contact Pia Kanistros ([email protected]) for open times. Final
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day for reservations is April 30 - no exceptions please! Contact
reservations chairperson, Cindy Keilholz, 937/439-4861 or
[email protected]
OKTOBERFEST SPANAKOPITA BAKING. Even though Oktoberfest
is many months away, we’re getting a head start on baking. This
year, Philoptochos and Parish Council will combine their booths
giving customers one-stop-shopping for delicious Greek delights!
Watch for emails announcing baking dates. Please join us!
CCM FOR MAY “BLANKET AUCTION” TO BENEFIT BIG
BROTHERS/BIG SISTERS
Look for more information in this issue of the True Vine. Chairs:
Diane Briggs and Ruthann Zavakos
LOOKING AHEAD CCM JUNE, WARRIOR CANINE CONNECTIONS
“CHARITY IS GIVING …. PHILANTHROPY IS DOING” Feeding the
Hungry program initiated!
Isn’t that a great saying? How many of us give money or donations
to help others, but not ‘hands on’ help? All of our chapters have
been challenged by our National Philoptochos President, Maria
Logus, to initiate a “Feeding the Hungry” program over the next
year. Our goal across the country is to serve 250,000 meals by next
July, 2016. We have a committee dedicated to set up monthly
participation by our Philoptochos members. Contact Cynthia
Barron ([email protected]) for more information.
THIS MONTH
MEMBERSHIP MEETING, Thursday, May 7, 10:00 a.m. Athenagoras
Room. We will hold elections for our new board members and the
newly-elected board members are asked to stay for a short
meeting following our fellowship. This is our last meeting until the
end of August ~ don’t miss it!
Co-chaired by Michelle Zois and Stephanie Benjamin
FOR COMMUNITY REWARDS WHEN YOU’RE SHOPPING:
--Kroger’s Community Rewards Program, Code# 10287. This is an
easy and very successful fund-raising endeavor, HOWEVER, YOU
MUST REAPPLY YEARLY TO STAY IN THE PROGRAM. Go to
www.krogers.com and follow their instructions to renew your
rewards membership. Instructions have been e-mailed to you
earlier, but if you have any questions, contact Sandy Alex
[email protected]
--Meijer Stores or Meijer.com. You must use either a Meijer credit
card, cash or a debit card. Application cards can be filled out on line
or at a Meijers Customer Service Desk. Our code is #432555.
--GFS gives us store credits towards future purchases. When
shopping, the information to give to the clerk is: “Philoptochos
#2024816.”
THE TRUE VINE
MAY 2015| Page 6
Parish News and Notes…
SUMMER CAMP OPPORTUNITIES
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE
AIF SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS
Information concerning the AIF Scholarship Program for the
2015-16 school year is now available. Application packets
may be picked up in the Parish Center lobby. The deadline
st
for submission is May 1 .
2015 GRADUATION INFORMATION RECOGNITION SUNDAY – JUNE 7TH
We are requesting information from our parish’s 2015 High
School and College/University Graduates for a special
“Graduates” Section in our June issue of the True Vine. We ask
that submissions include the following: Name of Graduate,
School Graduating From, and Degree Received, and Future
Plans. Also, we would like a picture (jpeg or png format
preferred) of the graduate to accompany the information.
Please send all information and photos to the parish office,
([email protected]), by SUNDAY, MAY 10th.
It’s time, once again, to begin planning for Summer Camp!
We are blessed to have several opportunities in which the
youth of our parish may participate. The following options
are available:
MDSC (Metropolis of Detroit Summer Camp) in Rose City, MI DAYTON WEEK JUNE 28 – JULY 4
Registration will be exclusively online. Go to gomdsc.org and
click on “Online Camper Registration Open”. As in the past,
the AIF will provide a subsidy for one week of camp per
camper. You will need to input a special code (dayton 638)
when registering to subtract the subsidy amount from the
registration fee. Transportation will be provided by the
church. NOTE: Those who look to attend camp other than
DAYTON WEEK, will need to arrange for their own
transportation to and from camp.
ST. NICHOLAS CAMP in Pleasantville, TN – JULY 5 – JULY 11
Go to southerncamp.com to obtain registration information
as it becomes available. Subsidies will also be available to
those attending St. Nicholas Camp. Transportation may be
provided by the church. Contact Fr. Mark for further details.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Notes of Appreciation
Thank you everyone in the community who sent me “Get
Well” wishes. May God bless all of you, Pia Kanistros.
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!
SUNDAY MAY 10th
An Artoclasia will be offered by
Mary Leakas
for the health and well-being of all the
Mothers, Grandmothers, Great-Grandmothers,
Godmothers, Stepmothers, and Aunts of our parish.
The GOYA will serve Fellowship Hour
and present all Moms with a gift.
THE TRUE VINE
MAY 2015| Page 7
SS. Constantine & Helen, Equal-to-the Apostles, May 21st
This great and renowned sovereign of the Christians was the son of Constantius Chlorus (the ruler of the westernmost parts of the Roman
empire), and of the blessed Helen. He was born in 272, in (according to some authorities) Naissus of Dardania, a city on the Hellespont. In
306, when his father died, he was proclaimed successor to his throne. In 312, on learning that Maxentius and Maximinus had joined forces
against him, he marched into Italy, where, while at the head of his troops, he saw in the sky after midday, beneath the sun, a radiant pillar
in the form of a cross with the words: "By this shalt thou conquer." The following night, our Lord Jesus Christ appeared to him in a dream
and declared to him the power of the Cross and its significance. When he arose in the morning, he immediately ordered that a labarum be
made (which is a banner or standard of victory over the enemy) in the form of a cross, and he inscribed on it the Name of Jesus Christ. On
the 28th Of October, he attacked and mightily conquered Maxentius, who drowned in the Tiber River while fleeing. The following day,
Constantine entered Rome in triumph and was proclaimed Emperor of the West by the Senate,
while Licinius, his brother-in-law, ruled in the East. But out of malice, Licinius later persecuted the
Christians. Constantine fought him once and again, and utterly destroyed him in 324, and in this
manner he became monarch over the West and the East. Under him and because of him all the
persecutions against the Church ceased. Christianity triumphed and idolatry was overthrown. In 325
he gathered the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea, which he himself personally addressed. In 324, in
the ancient city of Byzantium, he laid the foundations of the new capital of his realm, and solemnly
inaugurated it on May 11, 330, naming it after himself, Constantinople. Since the throne of the
imperial rule was transferred thither from Rome, it was named New Rome, the inhabitants of its
domain were called Romans, and it was considered the continuation of the Roman Empire. Falling ill
near Nicomedia, he requested to receive divine Baptism, according to Eusebius (The Life of
Constantine. Book IV, 61-62), and also according to Socrates and Sozomen; and when he had been
deemed worthy of the Holy Mysteries, he reposed in 337, on May 21 or 22, the day of Pentecost,
having lived sixty-five years, of which he ruled for thirty-one years. His remains were transferred to
Constantinople and were deposed in the Church of the Holy Apostles, which had been built by him
(see Homily XXVI on Second Corinthians by Saint John Chrysostom).
As for his holy mother Helen, after her son had made the Faith of Christ triumphant throughout
the Roman Empire, she undertook a journey to Jerusalem and found the Holy Cross on which our Lord was crucified (see Sept. 13 and 14).
After this, Saint Helen, in her zeal to glorify Christ, erected churches in Jerusalem at the sites of the Crucifixion and Resurrection, in
Bethlehem at the cave where our Saviour was born, another on the Mount of Olives whence He ascended into Heaven, and many others
throughout the Holy Land, Cyprus, and elsewhere. She was proclaimed Augusta, her image was stamped upon golden coins, and two cities
were named Helenopolis after her in Bithynia and in Palestine. Having been thus glorified for her piety, she departed to the Lord being
about eighty years of age, according to some in the year 330, according to others, in 336
SATURDAY OF SOULS – Sat. before Pentecost
“Among the Saints give rest, O Lord, to the souls of your servants in a place where there is no pain or sorrow or
suffering, but Life Everlasting.”
May 30, 2015 at Woodland Cemetery (Weather permitting)
______________________________________
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______________________________________
______________________________________
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______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
Requested by___________________________________________________________
Parishioners wishing to have the names of their departed love ones read during the Saturday of the Souls are
asked to fill out the above form and return it to Father Mark or the church office.
THE TRUE VINE
MAY 2015| Page 8
2015 Stewardship Program
One of the greatest treasures we have received is our Orthodox Christian Faith and Tradition that guides
our worship and our entire life.”
By Kenya Smith and Melissa Guiness
Melissa is a social worker at Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton and Kenya is an Activity Director for The
Greenbriar Nursing Center in Eaton. Melissa is originally from the Dayton area but moved to Pittsburgh in
2003 to pursue her career. She and Kenya met in Pittsburgh through separate jobs in 2005. In 2013 when
Melissa’s mother Anastasia DeBernardi, a long standing member of the church, was diagnosed with cancer,
Melissa moved back to the area to be close to her. In August 2014 Melissa’s fiancée Kenya moved to the
Dayton area as well. It was Melissa’s mother’s passing in September 2014 that drew her and her family
back to the church where they have become frequent members.
Melissa is now an active member of Daughters of Penelope following her mother’s footsteps through her
loving guidance. Kenya, a published children’s author and poet was encouraged by George to join the
choir, and happily accepted the offer. “It is challenging in itself to sing regular songs or hymns following
notes, but singing in another language presented a totally different challenge and perspective.” Rewind to
2007 when Melissa and Kenya gave birth to their son Kai, who was born at 25 weeks (3 months
premature). To complicate matters, Melissa and Kenya were on their way to Florida with Melissa’s family
when she gave birth in Birmingham Alabama. Kai survived the medical complications from his prematurity
through his parent’s strong faith and mass amounts of prayers as well. Kenya and Melissa feel extremely blessed that Kai survived the
ordeal. Kai attends Catechism school and has also expressed an interest in becoming an altar boy. “Not only are we happy individually to
be in Ohio, but the blessings which have come from being a part of this fellowship is innumerable. As the saying goes, put God first and all
things will follow.”
~ 2015 ~
The list of Stewards reflects those who have made their 2015 Stewardship Commitment or contributed to their 2015 Stewardship
Commitment as of April 15, 2015. We thank them for their generosity and loving support. We invite you to join with them and support,
joyously, the ministries of the Church. You may obtain information and Stewardship Commitment Cards from the Church Office, or you
can speak to a Parish Council Member or Fr. Mark.
Dr. & Mrs. Fayez Abboud
Ms. Kally Adams
Drs. Abdulla & Malak Adib
Mrs. Georgia Afendoules
Mr.& Mrs. Spero M Alex
Mr. & Mrs. James Allen
Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Andrews
Mr. & Mrs. Paul Angelopoulos
Mrs. Elayne Anton
Mr. & Mrs. Semere Araia
Mr. & Mrs. George Argue
Dr. & Mrs. Gust Bambakidis
Mr. & Mrs. Evan Bambakidis
Mr. & Mrs. John Barron Jr.
Ms. Juanita Bartlett & Mr. Gary Manos
Ms. Stephanie Benjamin
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Bessler
Mr. & Mrs. Mark Bliss
Ms. Evelyn Boosalis
Mrs. Wendy Boucuvalas
Mr. & Mrs. Harry Bouris
Mr. & Mrs. James Bourne
Mrs. Angella Houpis Boyd
Mr. & Mrs. James Brandenburg
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Breed
Ms. Nancy Breen
Mr. & Mrs. James Brooks
Mrs. Tulla Brooks
Mr. & Mrs. Doyle Burke
Annika Burns & Bob Feldmann
Mr. Bob Cade
Mr. Stephan Calondis
Mr. & Mrs. Greg Caras
Mr. & Mrs. David Casey
Mrs. P Stanley Castleman
Mr. & Mrs. Dimitri Chagares
Mr. & Mrs. Terry Christ
Mrs. Stella Christofis
Mr. Demo Christon
Mr. & Mrs. William Cochran
Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Coleman
Ms Fadwa Constandinidis
Mr. & Mrs. Larry Couchot
Mr. & Mrs. Angelo County
Mr. & Mrs. Gary Cunagin
Mr. & Mrs. Tom G Daskalakis
Mr. & Mrs. Constantine Davell
Mrs Beatrice Davis
Mr. Nick Demetre
Mr. & Mrs. John Demetriades
Mr. John Demos
Mr. & Mrs. George Demosthenous
Dr. & Mrs. James Derksen
Ms. Ariana Derksen
Mrs. Marika Dimitriou
Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Douglass
Mr. & Mrs. Gene Dow
Mr. & Mrs. James Ellis
Fr. Mark & Ginny Emroll
Mrs. Lucy Fasules
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Federle
Mr. & Mrs. Alex Fote
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Fote
Mr. & Mrs. Albert Fricioni
Dr. & Mrs. Harry Fronista
Mrs. Owen Gabbard
Dr. Arthur Gardikes
Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Gearon Jr.
Mr. James Gersos
Mr. Lambi Gersos
Ms. Alexandra Ghazal
Mr. & Mrs. George Gianopulos
Mrs. Harriet K. Gounaris
Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Gounaris
Mr. & Mrs. Jon Gromek
Ms. Eileen Gustin
Mr. & Mrs. Nasser Habash
Mr. Donald Hanel
Dr. Mary Haritos
Mrs. Glenn Haubrock
Mr. & Mrs. James Haubrock
Mr. Michael Haubrock
Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Heisey
Mr. Daniel Hess
Mr. & Mrs. Jason Hodgson
Dr. C. H. Houpis
Mr. & Mrs. Harry C. Houpis
Ms. Evonna Hurst
Mr. William J. Hutchison
Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Hypes
Mr. & Mrs. John Ioannou
Mr. & Mrs. Mike Jackson
Mr. Michael Jannides
Mr. & Mrs. Max Jenks
Ms. Betty Jonson
Mr. & Mrs. Johnny Kaissieh
Ms. Berdi Kakas
Miss Christine Kambas
Mrs. Jim Kandris
THE TRUE VINE
Miss Pia Kanistros
Mrs. P. J. Kanistros
Mr. & Mrs. Spiro Karabalis
Mr. & Mrs. Alexandros Karabinis
Mrs. Tina Karambelas
Mrs. Eleftherios Karkadoulias
Mrs. Pete Karras
Mr. & Mrs. Mark Keilholz
Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Kididis
Mr. James Kilavos
Mr. & Mrs. Gus Kontonickas
Mr. George N. Kordalis
Mr. & Mrs. Harry Lake
Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Lander
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Lavoie
Mrs. Vigi Liakakos
Mr. & Mrs. Gus Liapis
Ms. Elizabeth Limber
Mrs. Martha Limber
Mr. & Mrs. Paul Logus
Dr. & Mrs. Bryan Ludwig
Mr. & Mrs. David Luke Sr.
Mr. George Lusa
Mr. & Mrs. Panayiotis Makaritis
Mrs. George Makris
Mr. & Mrs. George Malacos
Mr. Peter Manavis
Mr. & Mrs. Constantine Manos
Ms. Juanita Bartlett & Mr. Gary Manos
Mr. George Marinakes
Mrs. Michael Mavrouleas
Mr. & Mrs. Ike Maxis
Mr. & Mrs. Greg McAlpine
Mr. & Mrs. Jay McAlpine
Mr. & Mrs. Scott McAlpine
Mr. & Mrs. John McDonald
Mr. & Mrs. Keith McFarland
Mrs. Sam Mellas
Mrs. Katheren Michaelson
Ms. Stephanie Michaelson
Mr. Christopher Milanese
Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Milstead
Mr. & Mrs. Mike Mokas
Mr. & Mrs. John Moraites
Mrs. Ted Moraites
Mrs. James Morris
Mr. & Mrs. Andrew G. Moulas
Mrs. Ray Mullins
Mrs. Elias Nakis
Mr. Demetrius Nicholas
MAY 2015 | Page 9
Mrs. Renee Nicholas
Mr. John Nickolas
Mrs. Maria Panagouleas
Mrs. Nicolette Panagouleas
Mr. & Mrs. William Pangos
Mr. & Mrs. George Panson
Mrs. Irene Papadopoulos
Mr. Konstantine Papadopoulos
Mr. & Mrs. Chris Papakirk
Mr. & Mrs. Jim Parker
Mr. & Mrs. Taki Parker
Mrs. Bill Patrianakos
Mr. & Mrs. George Pavlakos
Mr. & Mrs. David Pepiot
Judge John Pickrel
Mr. & Mrs. Jared Poeppelman
Mr. & Mrs. Vasilios Polychronis
Mr. & Mrs. Todd Powers
Mr. & Mrs. Demetri Preonas
Mr. & Mrs. Alan Price
Mrs. Dora Protos
Mr. & Mrs. Hippocrates Psihountas
Ms. Alexandria Pulos
Mr. & Mrs. Chris Pulos
Mrs. George Pulos
Dr. & Mrs. John Raab
Mr. & Mrs. Nick Regopoulos
Mr. & Mrs. George Reis
Dr. & Mrs. Thomas Retzios
Mr. James Richards
Dr. Lori Vavul-Roediger
Mr. & Mrs. Nelson Russell
Mr. & Mrs. George Saloom
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Saloom
Ms Nadia Saloom
Mr. Michael Samonas
Col. & Mrs. Nicholas Scambilis
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Scott
Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Scoumis
Mr. & Mrs. John Searles
Mr. & Mrs. Nick Shissias
Ms. Martha Simopoulos
Mr. & Mrs. Igors V. Skriblis
Mr. & Mrs. John Sotiropoulos
Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Speros
Mr. & Mrs. Elias Spyrou
Ms. Maria Stamas
Mr. and Mrs. Nick C. Stamas
Ms. Paula Stamas-Snyder
Mrs. Toula Stamm
2015 Youth Dance Group Practice Schedule
Practices and performances for 2015 are scheduled:
May 6 6:00 to 7:00 for all groups
May 13 6:00 to 7:00 for all groups
May 15-16-17 DIFI
Ms. Evanthia Steffens
Mrs. Evangeline Stelyn
Mrs. Manuel Stiakakis
Ms. Anastasia Stratis
Mrs. Mary Stratis
Dr. & Mrs. Victor Thaler
Angeline Thompson
Maj. Gilbert Thurman
Ms. Anastasia Tipler
Mr. & Mrs. Nick Tolias
Mr. & Mrs. Ilias Tompoulidis
Mr. & Mrs. John Torges
Mr. & Mrs. John Tsalas
Dr. & Mrs. James Tsatalis
Mr. & Mrs. Pete Tsolometes
Mr. & Mrs. Chris Tzouras
Dr. and Mrs. John Urse III
Dr. & Mrs. John Valassiades
Mrs. Anthony Valen
Mrs. Pete Vasilakos
Ms. Emilia Marinela Verdes
Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Vradelis
Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Vradelis
Mr. & Mrs. Ryan Wallerius
Ms. Stephanie Waszczak
Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Weikert
Mrs. Evangelia Williams
Mr. Adam Winters
Dr. Antonia Winters
Mr. & Mrs. Philip James Winters
Mrs. Rena Wright
Mr. & Mrs. James Xarhoulacos
Mr. Tom Xarhoulacos
Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Xidas
Mrs. Katherine Xidas
Mr. Gregory Yannekis
Mrs. Stella Zaharako
Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Zalants
Mrs. Andrea Zavakos & Mr. Cor
Groeneweg
Mr. & Mrs. James Zavakos
Mr. & Mrs. Louis Zavakos
Mr. Robert Zavakos
Mr. Tasi Zavakos
Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Ziehler
Mr. & Mrs. Nick Zois
Mr. Demetrius C. Zonars
Mr. & Mrs. Frank Zonars
Mrs. Suzanne Zonars Hambrick
THE TRUE VINE
MAY 2015| Page 10
Monday of the Holy Spirit – Day After Pentecost
On the day after every Great Feast, the Orthodox Church honors the one through whom the Feast is made possible. On
the day following the Nativity of the Lord, for example, we celebrate the Synaxis of the Most Holy Theotokos (December
26). On the day after Theophany, we commemorate St John the Baptist (January 7), and so on.
Today we honor the all-Holy, good, and life-creating Spirit, Who descended
upon the Apostles at Pentecost in the form of fiery tongues in fulfillment of
the Lord's promise to send the Comforter to His disciples (JN 14:16). That
same Holy Spirit remains within the Church throughout the ages, guiding it
"into all truth" (JN 16:13).
One of the hymns at Vespers on Saturday evening tells us that the Holy
Spirit "provides all things. He gushes forth prophecy, He perfects the
priesthood, ... He holds together the whole institution of the Church."
At Vespers on the day of Pentecost, we hear that the Holy Spirit is "the
Fountain of goodness, through Whom the Father is known, and the Son is
glorified." He is "the living Fountain of spiritual gifts" Who "purifies us from
our sins." It is by the Holy Spirit that "the prophets, divine Apostles, and
martyrs are crowned." He is the source of life and of sanctification.
In the services of this day, we sing the same hymns as on Pentecost, except the Canon of the Holy Spirit, which is sung
at Compline. The Vigil is not prescribed for the eve of today's feast. We sing the Great Doxology at Matins, but not the
Polyeleos. The Irmos of the Ninth Ode ("Hail, O Queen, glory of mothers and virgins…") is sung in place of the Song of
the Theotokos ("My soul magnifies the Lord...").
At the Liturgy, the priest or deacon chants the Entrance Verse ("Be exalted in Thy strength, O Lord. We will sing and
praise Thy power.") as on the day of Pentecost. "Holy God" replaces "As many as have been baptized…." The dismissal of
Pentecost is also used.
This whole week is fast-free, and the Leave-taking of Pentecost occurs on Saturday.
Apolytikion in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone
Blessed are You, O Christ our God, who made fishermen all-wise, sending upon them the Holy Spirit and, through them,
netting the world. O Loving One, glory to You.
Kontakion in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone
When the Most High came down and confounded tongues of men, He divided the Nations. When He dispensed the
Tongues of Fire, He called all to unity, and with one voice we glorify the Most Holy Spirit.
Vacation Church School Returns!
We are planning to have Vacation Church School this summer . It will take place during the first week of
August. We thank Christina Harsch for coordinating this program. We are looking for adult and GOYA –
aged volunteers to help make this activity fun for all!. Please contact Christina at [email protected] or
Fr. Mark at [email protected]. More information coming soon!
ANNUNCIATION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
MAY 2015
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
1
SATURDAY
2
Deadline for AIF
Scholarship
Application
3
4
5
4 Sunday from
Pascha (Sunday of
the Paralytic)
5:30p Greek School
6:30a Election Day
Athenagoras Room
th
6
6:00p Dance
Practice All
Groups
7:00p Festival Mtg.
Library
8:15a Matins
9:30a Div. Liturgy
7
8
9
10:00a Philoptochos
Membership Mtg.
6:30p JOY
Ministry Event
Movie Night
Make Mother’s
Day Cards
Philoptochos Spring
Lunch
12p Flower pick up
All SAINTS FAIR
GOYA Mtg.
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
5 Sunday from
Pascha (Sunday of
the Samaritan
Woman)
5:30p Greek School
– Final Exam
8:30a AIF Meeting
Athenagoras Room
6:00p Dance
Practice All
Groups
.
DIFI
DIFI
22
23
29
30
th
8:15a Matins
9:30a Div. Liturgy
DIFI Baklava
Baking
DIFI Baklava
Packaging
7:00p Ellas
6:30p DOP Mtg.
Athenagoras Room
MOTHER’S DAY
17
18
19
20
21
6 Sunday from
Pascha (Sunday of
the Blind Man)
Greek School
Awards Dinner
1:00p GAPA Mtg.
7:00p Ellas
Feast of the
Ascension &Feast of
SS. Constantine &
Helen
th
6:30p AHEPA Mtg.
Athenagoras Room
8:15a Matins
9:30a Div. Liturgy
8:15a Matins
9:30a Div. Liturgy
Ctsm. Class Last Day
11:30a YAH Lunch
7:00p PC Mtg.
DIFI
24
25
7 Sunday from
Pascha (Sunday of
the Fathers)
MEMORIAL DAY
th
8:15a Matins
9:30a Div. Liturgy
31
th
8 Sunday from
Pascha (HOLY
PENTECOST –
Kneeling Service
after Divine Liturgy)
8:15a Matins
9:30a Div. Liturgy
26
27
7:00p Ellas
7:00p Choir
OFFICE CLOSED
28
Sat. before
Pentecost (Sat. of
Souls – Divine
Liturgy
9:30a Divine Liturgy
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church
500 Belmonte Park North
Dayton Ohio 45405-4797
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Dayton, Ohio
Permit No. 934
Change Service Requested