The Desert Messenger - St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church

The Desert
Messenger
“Behold, I send My messenger before Your Face, who shall prepare Your way...” (Matthew 11:10)
Volume 10, Issue 5 St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, Las Vegas, NV
From
Father
John
May 2012
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” ~ John 1:5
Beloved in Christ:
Χριστος Ανεστη! Christ is Risen!
By the grace and good will of our saving God,
we again reached the pinnacle of not only the Great
40-Day Fast, but moreover the entire year – the Feast of all feasts,
Great and Holy Pascha. Once more, we ended at the same place
where we started the Holy Fast . . . that is, at the grave. We began
our journey into the spiritual wilderness with the awareness that
we have been exiled from Paradise together with Adam and Eve,
and consigned to the grave because of our sinful rebelliousness
against our Creator. Throughout the long fast, if we approached it
prayerfully and thoughtfully, we became cognizant of our own
need for repentance, and hopefully made the steps to return to our
Lord and Master Who patiently awaits us.
With Pascha, however, our encounter with death is not
filled with the despair, grief or mourning that we experienced in the past. Together with the Myrrh-Bearing
Women, we now approach the Tomb of our King, only to find it empty – signifying that the grave is no
longer a place of repulsion, but of sweetness; or a reason for lamenting, but rather of rejoicing; and that
death is no longer a condition of darkness, but instead, a radiant passage to eternal communion with Christ
our God, Who is the Divine Light.
Again this year, we the faithful entered the darkened Church at the midnight hour in anticipation of
receiving the Light of Christ in our lives . . . with assurance that not only the Church in which we gathered,
but all of creation as well would bask in the Light of God’s love and mercy . . . and with profound
thanksgiving, because we were fully aware that God’s forgiveness dawns from the tomb, although we have
done nothing to merit this. Like the Holy Apostles, we witnessed our Lord freely enduring extreme
humiliation, so that, according to His will, He might put our sinfulness to death on the Cross and vanquish
the sting of death by His Glorious Bodily Resurrection on the third day.
During this joyful Paschal Season, let us eagerly embrace these words of St. Gregory the Theologian
as our own: “Yesterday I was crucified with Him, today I live with Him; yesterday I was buried with
Him, today I rise with Him.” Beloved, we received the Holy Light of our Resurrected Lord Jesus Christ on
Pascha not only to brighten the darkened Church, but more importantly, as both our personal and
community commitment to spiritual renewal – to illumine from this point on our darkened souls. Receiving
the Light must be equivalent to setting our hearts and minds ablaze with a genuine love for God and, equally
so, for one another. In taking our Light home, we were reminded that we must “walk as children of light”
and, therefore, to “try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:8, 10)
Let us, as bearers of the Holy Light of Christ, let our light so shine before all people and indeed the
world, that all may see our good works and give glory to our Heavenly Father (Matthew 5:16).
With love in the Risen Lord,
The Desert Messenger
WORSHIP SCHEDULE
Sundays: 8:45 am Orthros ~ 10:00 am Divine Liturgy
Church School follows Holy Communion
Sunday, May 6/4th Sunday of Pascha/
Sunday, May 20/6th Sunday of Pascha/
Sunday of the Paralytic
Sunday of the Blind Man
Orthros: Tone Three
Resurrection Gospel (Orthros): Luke 24:13-35
Epistle: Acts 9:32-42
Gospel: John 5:1-15
Parish Assembly follows Liturgy
Orthros: Tone Five (First Plagal)
Resurrection Gospel (Orthros): John 20:11-18
Epistle: Acts 16:16-34
Gospel: John 9:1-38
Monday, May 21/Ss. Constantine and Helen,
Wednesday, May 9/Mid Pentecost/
Holy Martyr Christopher
8:00 am Orthros ~ 9:00 am Divine Liturgy
Epistle: Acts 14:6-18
Gospel: John 7:14-30
Equal to the Apostles
8:00 am Orthros ~ 9:00 am Divine Liturgy
Epistle: Acts 26:1, 12-20
Gospel: John 10:1-9
Wednesday, May 23
5:00 pm Orthros ~ 6:00 pm Divine Liturgy
(Holy Ascension of Our Lord)
Sunday, May 13/5th Sunday of Pascha/
Sunday of the Samaritan Woman
Orthros: Tone Four
Resurrection Gospel (Orthros): John 20:1-10
Epistle: Acts 11:19-30
Gospel: John 4:5-42
Happy Mothers Day!
Epistle: Acts 1:1-12
Gospel: Luke 24:36-53
Thursday, May 24/Holy Ascension
Liturgy Celebrated on Wednesday Evening
Sunday, May 27/7th Sunday of Pascha/
Christ is Risen from the dead
by death trampling down upon death
and to those in the tombs
He has granted life!
The Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council
Orthros: Tone Six (Second Plagal)
Resurrection Gospel (Orthros): John 21:1-14
Epistle: Acts 20:16-18, 28-36
Gospel: John 17:1-13
His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos made his annual
pilgrimage to our parish on Palm Sunday weekend.
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Parish
Council
Report
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ of St. John the Baptist Church,
Xristos Anesti! Christ Is Risen!
This is an especially happy and sacred time of the year for all Orthodox Christians.
Thank you to all the ministries and volunteers that worked especially hard throughout this
special celebration.
Thanks to our wonderful Clergy, Altar Servers, Chanters, Adult and Youth Choirs for focusing and
enhancing our spiritual attention to prayer. His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos was very impressed with
the reverence and hospitality that was demonstrated by all of our faithful during his visit with the new
Chancellor, Father Apostolos Koufallakis, and visiting Psalti, Sotiris Vlavianos. A special “thank you” to Jim
and Julie Monoyudis for hosting the Welcome Dinner at the Tahiti Village. Only St. John the Baptist Church
knows how to make everyone feel loved.
I would be remiss if I did not mention our entire behind-the-scene workers: The Forerunners,
AHEPAans, GOYAns and Philoptochos are to be recognized for their ongoing participation, from assisting in
Church to the preparation of some fantastic meals.
I am very grateful to God for blessing me with an extraordinarily active Parish Council. They certainly
were visible in their attentiveness and heartfelt work ethic. From early morning Church services to extended
evening hours they were always there ready to assist in every capacity.
I think we can all agree that the Palm Sunday Luncheon and Agape Picnic were well attended.
Congratulations to all who made these events successful. Finally, a special “thank you” to our talented folk
dancers for providing great entertainment, with Steve Likourinou providing the sound.
Once again, St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church Parishioners showed the community how a
vibrant and spiritual family endures – through love, worship and respect for one another.
Alithos Anesti! Truly He Is Risen! May God Continue to Bless Our Church.
John Fotopoulos, Parish Council President
Jesus said to the paralytic, “Rise, take up your pallet, and walk.” ~John 5:8
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
May 6
Ushers: Tami Stefanatos, Demetrious Asim, Darrick Cole, George Bochanis, Adam Bieker and Spiros Filios
Memorial: Mary Bartsas and Departed Family and Friends;
Domna Kalfas (1 year); George Kostopoulos (4 years)
Fellowship: Philoptochos, in Memory of Mary Bartsas
May 13 ~ Happy Mothers Day!
Ushers: Paula Kelesis, Stephanie Demoleas, Ramona Tasios, Stacy Mavrantonis, John Fotopoulos
and Jim Monoyudis
Fellowship: Orthodox Family Fellowship
May 20
Ushers: Adam Bieker, Spiros Filios, Demetrious Asim, Darrick Cole, Tami Stefanatos and Jim Monoyudis
Memorial: John Zarkos (40 days)
Fellowship: AHEPA
May 27
Ushers: John Fotopoulos, George Bochanis, Paula Kelesis, Stephanie Demoleas, Ramona Tasios
and Stacy Mavrantonis
Memorial: Emmanoul Zervos (1 year)
Fellowship: Forerunners, Seniors of St. John the Baptist
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Philoptochos
News
Christos Anesti! Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!
April has been a busy month for the Philoptochos Society and we want to thank
everyone who volunteered for all of the Lenten events from Palm Sunday . . . to the dying
of the red eggs for Pascha . . . to the decorating of the Epitaphion . . . to helping with
Holy Week services and the Agape Picnic. Once again, everything you do is greatly appreciated. Many
thanks go to the entire Parish, which generously donated for the flowers for the Epitaphion.
On Sunday, May 6 we will host the Fellowship in honor of the memory of our benefactress, Mary
Bartsas: May her memory be eternal.
All members of our Philoptochos are invited to join us on Tuesday, May 8 at 6:30 pm in the Panos Hall
Foyer. Instead of a General Meeting, we will have a fun-filled evening, which we are sure everyone will enjoy.
Please RSVP to Georgia Kostopoulos at (702) 263-6108 or Geri Kypreos at (702) 378-7900. We are
looking forward to seeing everyone there.
Your Sisters in Christ, Geri Kypreos and the Panagia Board of Philoptochos
Forerunners ~
The Seniors of St. John the Baptist
We hope all of our
members had a holy and blessed Pascha.
Thanks to those members who helped cook
and serve for the Agape Picnic; your cooperation is
always appreciated.
Since we did not meet in April, we look
forward to a good turnout for our next gathering,
which will be on Monday, May 14, at 11:30 am, in
Panos Hall. It will be an enjoyable event! Please
remember that we will host the Fellowship after
Divine Liturgy on Sunday, May 27; please bring
your “goodies” before Liturgy, so that we have time
to present them appropriately.
Now that the weather is warming up,
please remember your sun block and keep yourself
hydrated by drinking lots of water! Keep Safe!
Yours in Christ, Ruth Plentzas
Christ is Risen!
Notes from the Loft
Christos Anesti! Thank you for your hard
work during the Lenten and Paschal season!
The services were beautiful and prayerful. A special
“thank you” goes to our dedicated organist, George
Bosnos, for the devotion of his time and talent!
We will take a short break from rehearsals
during the month of May.
Athena Mertes, Choir Director
Notice of Parish Assembly
Sunday, May 6, 2012 ~
Following Liturgy
AGENDA:
 Call to Order/Opening Prayer
 Election of Assembly Chair
 Approval of Minutes (November 6, 2011)
 Financial Report
 Stewardship 2012 Report
Building and Maintenance Report
Greek Food Festival Report
Election of 2 Delegates for National
Clergy-Laity Congress
 Closing Prayer/Adjournment
Adult Study with Father John:
“The Sunday Orthros
Resurrection Gospel Readings”
The Minutes will be made available via email or at
the Church Office. You must be a 2012 Steward in
Good Standing to participate and vote.
Stewardship Pledge Cards can be obtained by
calling the Church Office at (702) 221-8245.
Starting Wednesdays, May 2
at 7:00 pm in Kokkos Hall
Bibles available for purchase in our Bookstore
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“Where Does It Say That in the Bible?”
How many times have we heard this question, or perhaps even asked it ourselves? Either way,
“Where does it say that in the Bible?” always seems to be the phrase that comes to mind when our conscience
is provoked regarding our faith and how we live it.
With this being said, in the recent past I mentioned that we will learn about giving of ourselves as
“True Christian Stewards” by referencing the Scriptures. But, before we do so, I would like to share an
interesting explanation to this question asked by many of us “skeptics,” by doing precisely this . . .
referencing, in this instance, the New Testament Gospel of St. John: “But there are also many other things
which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain
the books that would be written.” (John 21:25)
Through the work of the Holy Spirit placed upon the Apostles and subsequently the Holy Fathers of
the Church, we understand that all of the Commandments of Christ could not fit in the compiled Bible, but
whether written or handed down through Holy Tradition, His Teachings are still to be applied to our lives –
upheld and respected by the Faithful.
As we consider how our Lord’s Commands apply to True Christian Stewardship, we need only to
share one other passage, which is an abundance of knowledge, and coming from the Gospel of St. Mark:
“And a poor widow came, and put in two copper coins, which make a penny. And He called His
disciples to Him and said to them, ‘Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those
who are contributing to the treasury. For they contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her
poverty has put in everything she had, her whole living.’” (Mark 12:42-44)
May we all consider this wonderful example from Christ's Teachings as a cheerful call for each of us;
not misunderstanding it as your parish asking us again to give money, but instead, considering it a calling to
give of ourselves wholeheartedly, just as the poor widow did.
The Community Outreach/Stewardship Committee really desires to connect with every one of you, so
please give your best effort to do the same. Also, if you personally have a need, or have a loved one who is
sick, in the hospital, or home-bound we will gladly make a visit. My contact information is
[email protected]. If you do not have e-mail, please contact Karen at the Church Office (702) 221-8245,
and she will notify me.
Christos Anesti! Alithos Anesti!
Jennia (Justina) Szukiewicz, Stewardship Committee Chairperson
Kokkos Scholarship
The Scholarship Committee for the Kokkos Scholarship Fund is pleased to announce that applications
are currently available at the Church Office. If you wish to receive your application via email, please contact
Karen at [email protected]. The applications must be returned on or before Friday, May
25. Late and/or incomplete applications will not be considered.
The eligibility requirements were established by Fofo Kokkos in her Last Will and Testament. The
Scholarship Committee for the Kokkos Scholarship Fund administers this program under the guidance of
Father John Hondros.
The Kokkos Will stipulates that two high school graduates of Greek descent within the St. John
Community be selected, who are enrolled for higher education to a college or university. The students must
have an outstanding scholastic record and be in financial need. Also, parish involvement by the students at St.
John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church was important to Fofo Kokkos; therefore this is also a factor in
evaluating the applicants.
Please contact the Church Office for more information at (702) 221-8245.
Please remember Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church
in your will and estate planning.
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Our Community Registry
ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST
GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
Baptized into Christ: Na Mas Zisoun!
5300 S. El Camino Rd.
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Gianna, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth Lagomarsino, on March 31, 2012.
Godparent: Panayiota Lieblein.
Rev. Father John Hondros
Alexander, son of Danny and Danielle Kalkas, on April 22, 2012.
Godparent: Voula Konstantarakis.
Chrismation
Kristin Marsala on April 1, 2012. Sponsors: Gary and Susan Waters.
Karen Rawlinson
Administrative Assistant
Maria Kakavulias
Business Administrator
Sheryl Lujan
Facilities and Catering Manager
Office Hours
Marriage: Na Zisete!
Brandon Rudolph and Christina Kordogiannis on April 21, 2012.
Koumbaros: George Peek.
Fallen Asleep in the Lord: Eternal Memory
Gust Birtas on March 23, 2012. Funeral on March 30.
Mary Lambros on March 30, 2012. Funeral on April 4.
Patricia Irvin (daughter of Katherine Andrews) on April 2, 2012.
John Zarkos on April 13, 2012. Funeral on April 17.
Monday - Friday
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Telephone: (702) 221-8245
FAX: (702) 221-9167
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website: vegasgreekorthodox.com
Parish Council: John Fotopoulos
Philoptochos: Geri Kypreos
Choir: Athena Mertes
Chanters/Youth Choir:
Presvytera Maria Hondros
Church School:
Eileen Koutsulis
Orthodox Connection Las Vegas
Altar Servers:
Alex Szukiewicz
Xristos Anesti!
“The One Isaiah proclaimed the Lamb comes willingly to the
slaughter. He bares His back to the lash, His cheeks to the strikes. Spat
upon, He does not turn away from the humiliation. Willingly the sinless
One endures all, that to all He may grant resurrection from the
dead.” (Hymn from Holy Thursday Morning)
Each year at the end of Lent and Holy Week, we are able to reflect on
one service or event that stands out for us above all others. For me this year,
Christ’s humility was what truly had my attention. In reflecting on the above
hymn, we are reminded that the One who created everything and has power
to do anything, humbled Himself to allow such disrespect and humiliation so
that we may learn what it is to be humble Christians.
When we are faced with a difficult situation, such as an irritating
coworker, a bad driver on the road, or a disobedient child, we should think
back to this hymn and remember that if Christ put Himself last and endured
all for us . . . how can we do any less to others?
Thank you to all the members of OCLV who attended and
volunteered at the Agape Picnic. As members of a ministry, it is imperative
that we support our Church and Her functions. Only through your help and
support can our events be successful.
For the month of May we will have a fellowship night of bowling at
the Orleans Casino Bowling Alley on Friday, May 18 at 7:00 pm. Please
RSVP by Wednesday, May 15, so lanes may be reserved.
In Christ, Adam Bieker [email protected]
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Stewardship Committee:
Jennia Szukiewicz
Hellenic Historical Society:
Nitsa Filios
GOYA:
Effie Lekar
Tammy Chomakos
HOPE and JOY:
Sharon Katsaros
Orthodox Family Fellowship:
Amy & Jeremy Bauck
Youth Ministries:
Eileen Koutsulis
Orthodox Connection Las Vegas:
Adam Bieker
Adult Basketball: Panagiote Tsolis
Forerunners:
Marie & Gary Setian
Greek Folk Dance:
Tina Liaos, Chair
Bryan Taxopoulos, Director
Greek School: Paula Kelesis
Orthodox Bookstore:
Matthew Castillo
Bill Andrews Library:
Spero Demoleas
The Desert Messenger
Youth Ministries
Church School
Christos Anesti!
What a great year we have had in Church School. We have closed our enrollment this year. Starting
in August, you may register your children for the 2012-2013 Church School year.
I would like to thank all our teachers for their hard work this year. Their dedication and commitment
to our program is what makes it successful. I would also like to thank Father John for his support; all of us
appreciate everything that he does for us.
Our Commencement is on Pentecost Sunday, June 3. We will have our ceremony, along with
honoring our High School Seniors after Divine Liturgy and Kneeling Vespers. Afterward, we will have a
celebration in Panos Hall with pizza and cake.
Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
In Christ, Eileen Koutsulis, Church School Director (702) 521-6516 or [email protected]
Youth Choir News
Christos Anesti! Kudos to the Youth Choir, including all our new members, who
chanted the services for Lent and Holy Week BEAUTIFULLY! The group was superb and
the congregation loved you.
We will chant the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, May 13 for Mothers Day. It will be
extra special for our Moms, Yiayias, Nounas and Theias to hear your wonderful voices. Please arrive early at
9:40 am in the front right side. Thank you!
Love, Presvytera Maria
Greek Folk Dance
HOREPSE 2012 ~ GREEK DANCE SEMINAR
The Folk Dance Ministry of St. John Church is proud to announce the 4th Annual Horepse Dance
Seminar, taking place on June 8-10 at St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church. We will be bringing
instructors and musicians from Greece for a fun-filled weekend of traditional song and dance.
Joining us will be Christos Papakostas displaying dances from Serres, Macedonia and Angelos
Nikolaidis teaching dances from his village in Evros, Thrace. The weekend will consist of several workshops,
dance classes and will include a Glendi Saturday evening with LIVE Greek music from regions all over Greece!
There are packages for the entire weekend, individual days or individual events. If you cannot attend
the entire weekend, please join us at the Glendi! Tickets for the Glendi are only $40 for adults and $20 for
children under 12. There will be great music, great food and great dancing!
Please help us welcome our attendees and instructors and show them what our Vegas Greek
hospitality is all about.
For more information, you can visit our website at http://
horepse.vegasgreekdance.com or contact Bessie Stavropoulos at (702) 326-1522 with any questions.
Please mark your calendars and we hope to see you all there!
Tina Liaos and the Greek Folk Dance Board
HOPE and JOY
Please note the date change: Our Red Rock Canyon Hike is now scheduled for Saturday, May
19. We will meet at 12:00 noon at the Chevron Station at Town Center and Charleston.
Please RSVP with Sharon at (702) 292-0850. Your Sister in Christ, Sharon Katsaros
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GOYA
Christ is Risen! We had a glorious Holy
Week, which began with the youth gathering that
we fully enjoyed with His Eminence Metropolitan
Gerasimos on Palm Sunday weekend. We once
again had the opportunity to ask questions
pertaining to our Faith, and as a result of this
dialogue we felt a closer bond with His Eminence.
Now that we have completed our Lenten
journey to Christ’s Holy Resurrection, let us also
prepare for our Lord’s Holy Ascension on
Thursday, May 24 and Holy Pentecost on Sunday, Our Annual Lenten Orthodox Teen Retreat was a
June 3. Please look to the worship schedule and success with 35 participants, and included youth
from our sister parish of St. Paul Church.
join us for these special services during the months
of May and June. Please remember that we sing
“Christ is Risen” for 40 days and we do not kneel at any Divine Liturgy for 50 days, to acknowledge the new life
we share in our Resurrected Lord.
On Saturday, May 12, we will have a Picnic Fun Day from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at Mountain’s Edge
Exploration Park (9275 S. Buffalo, Las Vegas, NV 89178 ~ Blue Diamond and Buffalo). Please bring your
outdoor sports gear, sunscreen, water, sack lunch, something to get wet in, a towel, a change of clothes, and
sneakers for a small hike! This is an amazing park that everyone will enjoy!
All teens are invited to join us each Tuesday from 7:30 to 9:00 pm for “Sports Night.” If you would like
to participate on the St. John the Baptist Church team at the GOYA Volleyball Tournament on the
weekend of May 19-20, at St. Anthony Church in Pasadena, CA, please contact one of the advisors!
Please also remember our Relay for Life on June 1 from 6:00 pm to June 2 at 6:00 am and help us raise
funds for the fight against cancer!
GOYA is a youth ministry for 6th-12th graders. Please contact Effie or Tammy with any questions.
Love in Our Risen Lord, Your GOYA Advisors,
Effie Lekar (702) 768-5500 and Tammy Chomakos (702) 338-4671
Orthodox Family Fellowship
Christos Anesti! We are looking forward to getting together in May! Now that it is warming up, we
are planning on gathering on the Church grounds to enjoy the spring weather on Saturday, May 12 from 3:00
to 6:00 pm.
There will be plenty of activities to keep everyone in the family busy, from football and kickball to
hula hoops and bubbles. We are planning to BBQ, so please plan on bringing a side dish (meat for BBQing
will be provided). Feel free to bring family and friends ~ the more the merrier!
Please RSVP to Amy Bauck at (702) 250-5064 or via email at [email protected]. See you on the 12th!
Jeremy and Amy Bauck, OFF Directors
Attention, Graduates!
We want to share your good news in the June issue of The Desert Messenger! If you will be graduating
soon from High School or University, please email [email protected] by May 15:
▪ School from which you are graduating
▪ The degree you will receive, including honors
▪ What your plans are, and what you will study if pursuing further education
▪ And most importantly, a photo of you in JPG format!
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Memories of Palm Sunday, Holy Week and Pascha 2012
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With gratitude to our contributing
photographers: Amy Bauck,
Stephen Carabas,
Tammy Chomakos, David Collins and
Marissa Hondros
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Financial Status for Month of March 2012
Bank Accounts
General Operating
Building/Maintenance
Community/Education Ctr
Construction (Loan Paymts)
Food Festival
Icon Money Market
Library Checking
On-Line Donations
Bookstore Checking
Beginning Balance
as of 2.29.12
Income
$13,426.83
$33,528.99
$3,845.56
$705.22
$7,832.39
$23,070.00
$42,691.85
$1,455.00
$4,636.50
$360.34
$15,143.21
$1.12
$1,200.09
$1,623.90
$488.00
Construction Loan
Revolving Line of Credit
Term Loan (5 year loan)
$572,871.99
$28,000.00
$0.00
Expenses
$47,599.34
$2,466.00
$8,010.71
$5,498.30
$41.98
$1,746.40
Internal Bank Transfers
Transfers In
Transfers Out
$1,774.83
Balances
as of 3.31.12
-$643.52
$2,084.78
$22,891.68
$37,193.55
$1,413.02
$3,250.44
$15,144.33
$1,200.09
$337.07
$570,679.66
$28,000.00
$0.00
Orthodox Bookstore
Christos Anesti!
We just began this
greeting with one another,
and before we know it, we
will soon prepare for the
celebration of Our Lord’s
Ascension. Lent flew by us,
and now the Paschal season
will draw to a close by the
end of this month.
Though the time flies
by us daily, remember that
the Lord’s promise and
relationship with us is
eternal. From the Paralytic,
to the Samaritan Woman,
the Blind Man, and the
Church Fathers . . . the Lord
makes no distinction of class
and holds all in His Hands.
For Father John’s
Adult Study we will begin
studying “The Sunday
Orthros Resurrection
Gospel Readings.”
The
New Oxford Annotated
RSV Bible is available in the
Bookstore and more copies
will be ordered shortly.
See you in the
Bookstore!
Matthew Castillo,
Director
Greek Language Class News
Tuesday, May 15 will be the last day of class for students in the pilot
program that rekindled the Greek Language Ministry, sponsored by the
Alea Chapter of the Pan Arcadian Federation of America.
This summer a task force will develop plans to expand this program
with classes beginning in September. Watch for more information,
including teacher applications, class levels and schedules, as well as student
enrollment forms.
If you have any questions you may contact Paula Kelesis, Teacher
and Class Coordinator, or Dean Cero, Advisor.
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2012 Stewards and Contributors: “I Am the Vine ~ You are the Branches”
Abernathy, Akaterine and Gordon
Adamy, Marina
Agnos, Dimitrios and Angeline
Agnos, Mary
Agnos, Peter
Alcala, Phil and Georgia
Alex, Jim and Renee
Anastasakis, Mark and Elaine
Anastasiou, Andrew and Kathleen
Andraktos, Manuel
Andrews, Catherine
Anthony, Stavros and Bernadette
Aristides, George and Diana
Assefa, Sara
Bacon, Ken and Dianne
Balodimas, James
Bartzos, Sam and Eugenia
Bassounas, Penny
Bauck, Jeremy and Amy
Berendji, Jim and Vivian
Berta, Irene
Bicos, Andriana
Bieker, Adam
Bingham, Robert and Melissa
Birtas, Ann
Birtas, Helen
Bochanis, George
Borzekas, Stephen
Bratta, Georgene
Britten, Ronald and Carol
Brown, Faye
Buckalew, Cassandre
Bucy, Brent and Elaine
Capre, Julio and Betty
Carabas, Stephen and Linda
Carabas, Thymios and Sotiroulla
Caras, Louis
Caredis, Jon and Marjorie
Carrico, William and Alexandra
Carter, Maria
Cero, Dean
Chachas, Bessie
Chachas, James
Chandrinos, Alexia
Chandrinos, Peter
Chanos, George
Chilaras, Panagiotis
Chomakos, Dean and Tammy
Chomakos, George and Nikki
Chomakos, Jeremy and Romina
Chondrakis, Dimos and Kaaren
Kragerud
Christopoulos, Ann
Christou, Andreas and Toni
Chumas, Russell and Stella
Ciprian, Laura
Cole, Darrick and Carla
Collins, David
Collins, Dean
Cominos, Ted
Conger, William and Alexia
Conklin, Demetra
Constantine, Bill
Costacos, John
Costuros, George and Marsha
Cosulas, Fr. Basil and Pres.
Samantha
Cotsilis, Jenny
Coutris, Angela
Dalacas, Eugenia
Dalacas, Eleni
Dalacas, Nick and Georgia
Dangard, Vasso
Davis, Ivan
Dawood, Evon
Delalis, Dina
Delia, Joel and Scarlet
DeMangus, Joanne
Demetriou, Demetrios and Bessie
Demolas, Ilias and Jodi
Demoleas, Helen
Demoleas, Spero and Grace
Demoleas, Stephanie
Demopoulos, Tommy and Vasiliki
DeWindt, Dennis and Susan
Diamantis, Filippos
Doering, Bruce and Lynn
Dominguez, Eric and Amalia
Doskas, Athanasios and Anastasia
Eliades, Aristotelis and Caroline
Eliades, Artemis
Eliades, Eleni
Eliades, Harry and Agapi
Eliades, Katerina
Eliakis, Peter and Glenda
Eliakis, Varthie and Lee Ann
Eliopulos, Goldie
English, Marika
Exarhos, Nick and Sharon
Eyler, John and Elizabeth
Eyler, Fr. Paul and Pres. Ilean
Failla, Jon and Jennifer
Farren, Anthony and Maritsa
Filios, George and Nitsa
Filios, Spiridon and Eleni
Flangas, Bill and Marilyn
Flangas, Gary and Amanda
Foskaris, Thomas and Iryina
Fotopoulos, John and Barbara
Frangakis, Constantine
Frangakis, John
Franzi, Jack
Fronimos, John and Margaret
Ganatsios, Nikolaos and Melpo
George, Angela
George, Pete and Georgia
+Georgiou, Trula
Georgis, John and Kaliopi
Gialketsis, Barbara
Giouzelis, Anastasia
Goddard, Elizabeth
Goldrick, Ethan and Robyn
Gordon, Victor and Demetria
Gousdovas, Nikos
Gousias, Elias and Maria
Grillas, Roula
Grisson, Tony and Georgeea
Gruber, Ernest and Zoe
Gulling, April
Hadzoglon, Christos and Barbara
Hallis, Louis and Betty
Hamilton, Mary
Hamilton, Paul and Brandi
Hanna, Adnan
Harris, Melty and Angeline
Hart, Dora
Hastings, Audra
Hastings, Teri
Hemmers, Oliver and
Pantelas, Anne
Heretakis, Paul and Francine
Hetzel, David
Hondros, Catherine
Hondros, Christina
Hondros, Fr. John and Pres. Maria
Hoover, Patrick and Pauline
Hristopoulou, Spiridoula
Kachikis, Paul and Ernestine
Kachnik, Alison
Kakavulias, Christina
Kakavulias, George and Helen
Kakavulias, John
Kakavulias, Maria
Kalkas, Danny and Danielle
Kalkas, John and Irene
Kambouris, Nicholas and Evangelia
Kane, Larry and Irene
Kanellis, Ann
Kanoles, Helene
Kanoles, Konstantine
Karacostas, Alice
Karalias, Petros and Constance
Karalis, Gianni and April
Karas, James
Karas, John and Marcie
Karas, Vasiliki
Karvounidis, Nick and Alexandra
Katris, Nick and Kathryn
Katsaros, Thomas and Sharon
Katsikakis, Evangelos
Kelesis, Dina
Kelesis, Paula
Khoury, Ray and Nicole
Kilgore, Richard and Eleni
Kleanthis, George and Zanetta
Kokenes, Katherine
Kolokithas, Tom and Vangie
Konstantarakis, Voula
Kontos, Spero and Diana
Kotonias, George and Patricia
Kountanis, Pat
Kourlos, Georgia
Koutsulis, John and Eileen
Koutsulis, Sam and Effie
Kratky, Frank and Constance
Kratsas, Chris and Barbeau,
Marjorie
Kuntelos, Simon and Sophia
Kypreos, Peter and Geri
Kyprianou, Gilbert and Alexis
Lagomarsino, Andre and Elizabeth
Lakis, Antoinette
Lamancusa, Lisa
Lambros, Mary
Latelle, Penny
13
Lazarakis, John and Panagiota
Lekar, Michael and Effie
Lemelson, Carolyn
Lemelson, Katerina
Leonis, Nick and Sophia
Leonis, Tishe
Leventis, Nicholas and Christina
Lewis, Foula
Liaos, James and Tina
Liaos, Steven and Francine
Liaos, William and Irene
Lieblin, Yota
Likourinou, Angie
Likourinou, Steve and June
Lymberopoulos, Mary
Maddox, Thomas and Maria
Malamatos, Kindina
Malpee, Mack and Kalliope
Mamasis, Dena
Mamasis, Tessie
Maniatakos, Ted and Maria
Manolakos, John and Jennifer
Manos, Patricia
Mansour, Muna
Manteris, Art and Sue
Margaretis, John and Lucila
Matsis, John and Rebecca
Matsis, Mike and Marsala, Kristin
Mavrantonis, Kiki and Stacy
Mavros, Michael and Debbie
McNear, Elizabeth
+Mezilson, Evangeline
Mikelis, Peter
Millet, Jennie
Miner, George and Loreane
Mirich, Kyle
Moffett, Todd and Eliopulos, Tina
Monoyudis, Jim and Julie
Morgan, Brian and Adrienne
Murnane, Sharon
Murphy, Terry and Karen
Nadzan, Don and Athena
Neocleous, Plato
Nicholas, John and Estella
Nichols, Georgia
Nichols, Mary
Nickolson, Chloe
Nikitas, Rigas and Aphrodite
Nikolopoulos, Nick and Demetra
Nixon, John A.
O’Brien, William and Chris
Olmsted, Travis and Marilyn
Orlando, Alleck and Jennifer
Osborn, Pearl
Ostis, Sotirios
Oustian, Arart and Juliette
Pallis, Paul and Sandra
Pandelis, Cheryl
Panos, William and Jeanne
Pantos, James
Papadatos, Dimitra and
Geary, Ted
Papas, Christian and Nicole
Papas, Louis and Magaly
Papas, Peter and Rita
The Desert Messenger
2012 Stewards and Contributors: “I Am the Vine ~ You are the Branches”
Pappas, Adrian and Diane
Pappas, Antonia
Pappas, Constantine and Karina
Pappas, Peter and Libby
Pappas, Rita
Payan, Luis and Eleni
Pearson, Jeff and Adrienne
Peek, George
Pelletier, Michael
Pendleton, Tricia
Pentogenis, Michael and
Katherine
Peterson, Barbara
Petratos, Angeline
Petro, Aleko and Georgia
Philippou, Demetrios and Luanne
Platis, Anna
Plentzas, Spiros and Ruth
Polimerou, Angeline
Poulos, Christine
Pouridis, Kouli and Para
Prokopis, Chris and Ritsa
Prud’homme, Edwin and Pennye
Punsalan, Basil and Sophie
Radosta, Athena
Raptis, Fr. Dean and Pres. Evonne
Rifakes, John and Carol
Rigas, Anthony and Mary
Rodis, Dimitri and Jennifer
Rodis, Sophia
Ross, John and Georgia
Rudolph, Brandon and Christina
Rouvas, John and Keri
Ruffner, Skip and Kathy
Salvarlis, Thomas and Joyce
Serpetini, Athanasia
Setian, Gary and Marie
Shiferaw, Dereje
Simos, Tony
Sirhan, Michael
Skalkotos, Nikolas and Georgia
Skandros, Georgia
Skarlatos, Kostas and Frangopulu,
Hristina
Skerbetz, Frank and Sophia
Smith, Kathleen
Snow, Clifford and Christina
Snow, Stephanie
Snowden, Robert and Niki
Soper, Robert and Maria
Sotira, George
Soursos, Harry
Soursos, Savvas and Helene
Sparangis, Spyro and Helen
Sparkuhl, Alex and Antoinette
Stavropoulos, Terry and Niki
Stefanatos, Michael and Tami
Stefanatos-Hetzel, Joanne
Stenos, Louis and Litsa
Stergiou, Peter
Stika, Arthur and Melinda
Stock, Helen
Struzas, Maria
Szukiewicz, Joe
Szukiewicz, Joseph and Jennia
Tafoya, Steven and Irene
Tahiraj, Mirella
Takas, Andrea
Tasios, Pete and Ramona
Taxiarchos, Andrew and
Alexandra
Taylor, Katherine
Teed, Charles
Theros, James
Thomas, Angie
Thompson, Maggy
Tohme, Tony and May
Touroutoglou, Nick
Tringas, Chris
Tsarouhas, Maria
Tsiralidis, Kosmas and Katerina
Tsolis, Christos and Panagioula
Tsolis, Panagiote
Tzelalis, Steve
Tzortzis, Vassilios and Maria
Varinos, Nick and Kiki
Vassiliadis, Athena
Vassiliadis, Spiros and Shiona
Vavoukakis, Penelope
Vergos, Charles and Eve
Vervilos, James and Anna
Walter, Vernon and Alice
Walters, Lane and Mary
Waterhouse, David
Waters, Gary and Susan
Weisman, Phil and Diane
White, William
Wilkerson, Chuck and Kristina
Wilson, Steven and Cleo
Womack, Karl
Womack, Kimberly
Wronski, Chuck
Xikis, Victoria
Zaferatos, Ted and Marinella
Zander, Becky and Yialouris, Paul
Zapata, Cesar and Smith, Litsa
Zarras, Nick and Chery
Zimmerman, Paul and Angela
Zoumboulis, Tina
Stewardship Report: “I Am the Vine ~ You are the Branches”
Pledge Range
$1-$999
$1,000-$2,499
$2,500-$4,999
$5,000-$9,999
$10,000-$14,999
Stewards Pledged*
Gifts Pledged
Gifts Received
Average Pledge
Number of Families
272
71
12
5
0
2011
372
$270,544
$116,026
$727
$ of Gifts Pledged
$84,823
$91,200
$41,200
$27,720
$0.00
2012
363
$243,743
$108,118
$671
Difference
-9
-$26,801
-$7,908
-$56
*Based on Stewardship Pledge Cards received
2012 Stewardship Status (April 10, 2012):
Stewardship Families Pledged
363
Stewardship Gifts Received
$108,118
Average Stewardship Pledge
$671
Stewardship Target – 2012
Stewardship Gifts Pledged
Current Stewardship Deficit
Percentage of Goal Achieved
$325,000
$243,743
$81,257
75%
Please consider donating to St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church
your automobile, truck, motorcycle, boat, aircraft, recreational vehicle,
construction equipment, etc. Please contact the Church Office at (702) 221-8245.
14
7
Monday
15
7:00 pm Adult Study
7:30 pm GOYA Sports
31
30
29
8:45 am Orthros
7:30 pm Adult
10:00 am Divine Liturgy Basketball
28
27
17
24 Holy Ascension of
5:00 pm Orthros
Our Lord
6:00 pm Divine Liturgy (Celebrated on 5/23)
(Holy Ascension)
7:30 pm Adult Study
7:00 pm Adult Study
10
3
Thursday
23
16
4:30 pm Last Greek
School 8-10 year olds
6:00 pm Last Greek
School 5-7 year olds
6:00 pm Parish Council
7:30 pm GOYA Sports
St. Christopher
8:00 am Orthros
9:00 am Divine Liturgy
7:00 pm Adult Study
9 Mid-Pentecost/
15
Greek School
8-10 year olds
6:00 pm Greek School
5-7 year olds
7:00 pm Philoptochos
Party in Panos Foyer
7:30 pm GOYA Sports
7:00 pm Adult Study
with Fr. John: Sunday
Orthros Resurrection
Gospel Readings
8 4:30 pm
2
4:30 pm Greek School
8-10 year olds
6:00 pm Greek School
5-7 year olds
7:30 pm GOYA Sports
Wednesday
1
Tuesday
21 Ss. Constantine 22
8:45 am Orthros
and Helen
7:30 pm GOYA Sports
10:00 am Divine Liturgy 8:00 am Orthros
9:00 am Divine Liturgy
7:30 pm Adult
Basketball
20
Mothers Day
14
8:45 am Orthros
11:30 am Forerunners
10:00 am Divine Liturgy Luncheon in Panos
7:30 pm Adult
Youth Choir Chants
Basketball
13
7:30 pm Adult
8:45 am Orthros
10:00 am Divine Liturgy Basketball
Parish Assembly
6
Sunday
25
7:00 pm OCLV at
Orleans Bowling Alley
18
11
4
Friday
MAY 2012 - IN THE YEAR OF THE LORD
26
GOYA Volleyball Tourney
in Pasadena 5/19-20
HOPE &
JOY Hike at Red Rock
Canyon
19 12:00 pm
Tour Taping
10:00 am GOYA at
Mountain’s Edge Park
3:00 pm OFF BBQ/
Sports Day at Church
12 10:00 am Church
5
Saturday
The Desert Messenger
The Desert Messenger
St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church
5300 South El Camino Road
Las Vegas, Nevada 89118-1922
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The Desert Messenger
The Way of the Lord
“Jesus said to His Disciples, ‘It is not for you to know the
times or seasons which the Father has fixed by His own
authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit
has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses in
Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the
earth.’ And when He had said this, as they were looking on,
He was lifted up, and a cloud took Him out of their sight.
And while they were gazing into heaven as He went, behold,
two men stood by them in white robes, and said,, ‘Men of
Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus,
Who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the
same way as you saw Him go into heaven.’” ~Acts1:7-11
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