D 09.12 What is the Eucharist?

09.12
St. George Greek
Orthodox Church
VOLUME 18, ISSUE 8
SEPTEMBER 2012
St. Paul, Minnesota
What is the Eucharist?
By Father Tom Avramis
D
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:
Happy Ecclesiastical New
Year! We leave the summer
season with memories of another wonderful Greek Festival. We look forward to several activities and ministries
starting up again including
Sunday School, Catechism
Classes and our Church/Parish
picnic.
As we continue our series on
the Top Ten Basics of Orthodox Christianity, we take a
closer look at the Holy Eucharist/Communion. We are enhancing our preparations by
reciting together the PreCommunion Prayers. I encourage you to read the articles
and try to incorporate these
teachings into your hearts and
minds with the goal of deepening your understanding and
faith.
+ Father Rick
in this issue
Regi st ry
P. 3
Pari sh News P. 4-5
Yout h
P. 7
uring the Divine
Liturgy we pray
and ask God to
change what the
bread and wine are by nature,
into the Body and Blood of
Jesus Christ. So great is this
mystery that we are left without any possible response
which would express what
God has done. Therefore we
offer the only answer we can:
Thank you!
The Bible tells us in Matthew
26:26-28 that Jesus, at the Last
Supper, took bread, blessed it,
distributed it, and then said,
“Take eat; this is My Body.”
Our Lord went on to the Cup
saying, “Drink from it, all of
you; for this is My Blood…”
This is not mere symbolism
even though Jesus equates
Himself with other things
(Door in John 10:9; Vine in
John 10:14, Good Shepherd
in ?). Only in the Eucharist do
we see a material element as
being referred to as something
other than it appears to be.
Prior to the blessing and the
giving of thanks the elements
were ordinary bread and wine.
It was only after Jesus consecrated them that the two elements became in reality the
body and blood of our Lord.
To this day, at every Divine
Liturgy, the wine and bread
are not considered to be the
Body and Blood of Jesus Christ
until the blessing and thanksgiving have been completed.
Jesus tells that He is the
bread (manna) from Heaven
(John 6:35, 38). He also said to
eat of this “new bread” meant
never seeing death (vv.49-50).
He says “…unless you eat the
flesh of the Son of man and drink
his blood, you have no life in
you.” (v.53) And, as if to settle
completely the issue, Jesus
(Continued on page 2)
How to Prepare for the Eucharist
by Father John Matusiak
T
he Eucharist is not
something that
should be approached lightly or
casually. When we receive the
Eucharist, we are given a taste
of "the life of the world to
come," here and now. The
Holy Fathers teach us that the
frequent reception of the Body
and Blood of Christ brings us
into a joyful union with God.
At the same time, the Eucharist
can condemn us if we approach it with anything less
than a sense of faith and hope
in the Lord's love. Our preparation for the reception of the
Eucharist should involve several elements which not only
emphasize its importance in
our spiritual lives, but its necessity in bringing about those
changes which will restore the
image of God within us.
Recognize the Need to Change
Fr. John Matusiak
Jesus Christ offers us His Body
and Blood "unto life everlasting." At the same time, He of- for the reception of the Euchafers us "the forgiveness of our rist begins with our recogni(Continued on page 2)
sins." Hence, our preparation
(Continued from page 1)
His authority as God? In this age of ra-
proach the Eucharist in proper fashion.
adds, “for my flesh is food indeed, and my
blood is drink indeed” (v.55).
Those who heard these words under-
tionalism it is not popular to exhibit a be-
And, as St. Paul reminds us (1Co. 11:27-
lief in anything that cannot be compre-
30), a proper approach is necessary in re-
hended by the mind. What so many
ceiving the Eucharist. The way we ap-
stood completely what Jesus meant.
Christians have forgotten is that our crite- proach this awesome mystery determines
“Many of his disciples, when they heard it
rion for believing anything as true follow- whether our participation will be a bless-
said, ‘This is a hard saying; who can listen to
ers of Christ is the authority of our Lord— ing in our
it?’” Furthermore, so much did this teach- not our capability to comprehend what
lives, or
ing shock the hearers that we are told that He has done or said.
whether we
from that time many of Jesus’ disciples no
In fact, St. Paul refers to the Eucharist as are conlonger followed Him (v.66). The fact of the the Body and Blood of Christ and goes so
matter is that to this day there are still
far to suggest that an improper undermany who find this a difficult teaching to
standing of the Eucharist can harm our
comprehend and refuse to accept it.
health and could even lead to death
Is our criterion for acceptance of Jesus’
demning
ourselves.
(1Corinthians 11:27-30).
teaching based on our ability to compre-
Therefore, if receiving the Eucharist is
hend what He tells us or on our faith in
receiving Jesus, we must take care to ap-
(Continued from page 1)
tion of the need to repent, to change our
lives, and to seek forgiveness for the sins
and offenses we have committed against
The Sacrament of Confession
Our Lord promises to forgive us whenever we sincerely and genuinely desire to
be forgiven. Approach the Sacrament of
make an attempt to overcome those things
that separate us from others, for these
only serve to separate us from God: "If we
say that we love God and hate our broth-
God and others. Spiritual growth is impossible without a desire to change our
lives. Just as we cannot overcome a physical illness without first desiring to be
healed, it is impossible to grow in our re-
Confession without fear or embarrassment. It is an opportunity to be reunited
with God and others and the means by
which we might be relieved of our deepest fears, hurts, and burdens. Ask God's
ers, we are liars, for if you do not forgive
men their trespasses, neither will your
Father forgive your trespasses [1 John 4.20; Matthew 6:14]. Hence, before we can
receive God's forgiveness, we must be
lationship with God without the healing
of our spiritual afflictions. Before receiving Holy Communion, take the time to:
• reflect on your life and determine the
areas in need of change and healing;
forgiveness. Seek and accept the advice
and guidance offered by your Spiritual
Father, your pastor, whose love for you
and concern for your salvation is a tangible sign of Our Lord's loving presence.
willing to forgive others, as we pray in the
Lord's Prayer: "Forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against
us."Ask forgiveness of those against
whom you have sinned. Forgive those
Fr. Tom Avramis
• examine your past thoughts and deeds,
measuring them against the example set
by Jesus Christ;
• ask God to forgive you, to guide you,
and to reveal His will for your life; and
Be at Peace with Others
On this point, Our Lord is clear. In Matthew 5:23 Christ tells us that if a wall has
been built between us and someone else,
• make a firm commitment to change,
with God's help, those areas of your life
which are inconsistent with your calling
as an Orthodox Christian.
we must make an attempt to be reconciled Pray and Meditate
with the other person before we can offer Prayer is more than a means of communiour gift at the altar and be united to God
cating with God. The ultimate goal of
(Continued on page 6)
and His People in the Eucharist. We must
page 2
who have sinned against you. Make every
attempt to heal the hurts you have caused
others and to be healed of the hurts others
have caused you.
St. Paul. MN
Registry
Church Staff and Office
Hours
Births
June 19, 2012
Alexander, son of Angie & Adam McMahon. Grandparents are
Panayiotis & Aristea Kontenakis.
June 18, 2012
Marika, daughter of Fr. George & Pres. Christa Dokos. Grandparents are
Dimitri & Becka Dokos.
Baptisms
July 22, 2012
July 28, 2012
Church Office Hours
(Monday-Friday)
8:00 AM--2:15 PM
Rev. Fr. Richard Demetrius
Andrews, Presbyter
(651) 222-6220
Email: [email protected]
Lori Kurtyka,
Administrative Assistant
Evangeline & Elizabeth, daughters of Peter &
Susanne Johnson. Godparents are Nick
Halatsis & Scott Hoffhines.
(651) 222-6220
Email: [email protected]
Eleanor Sophia, Jack Iakovos & Elias, children of Wendy Petropoulos &
Amil Petrin. Godparents are Mari Afendoulis, Georgia Panopoulos-Bruer
& Kelly Barbes.
Address Changes
Haidi Fotopoulos
2801 Calloway Rd. Apt. #209
Tyler, TX 75707-1556
Evangelia Assimacopoulos
933 W. Elm St.
Betty Assimacopoulos
4808 S. Sertoma Ave.
Sioux Falls, SD 57106-4800
Peter & Sonia Vellis
10 Millstone Terrace
Bedford, NH 03110-4236
Dinos Constantine
315 E. New England Ave. Unit #16 Winter Park, FL 32789-4477
Evanthia Thomaidis
2259 Rockwood Ave. Apt. #607
Tom Lampros,
Parish Council President
(651) 644-3924
Email: [email protected]
Reva Adkins,
Philoptochos President
(651) 337-1118
Email: [email protected]
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340-5095
St. Paul, MN 55116-3125
Festal Icons Needed
Andrea Faches,
Sunday School Director
(507) 665-8053
Email: [email protected]
Stella Hofrenning,
Greek School Director
651-917-2668
Jennifer Argeros,
Glad Tidings—Editor
Please donate a Festal Icon (11" x 14") in memory of a loved one. The cost is $75.00 per icon.
The icons are displayed in the church nave and are put out for veneration on the Feast Day of
the Saint or event they represent. To donate an icon, fill out a form (found on the bulletin
board by the kitchen) and return it to the office.
Email: GladTidings
@stgeorgegoc.org
Sue Gnetz & Sandra Thole,
Loaves and Fishes Coordinators
Email: [email protected],
[email protected]
Submissions for upcoming issues
are due by the 11th of the preceding
month.
Patriarch Isaac
Patriarch Jacob
page 3
Parish
News
Church Picnic
Save the Date! Our annual parish picnic
will take place on Sunday, September 16th
immediately following the Divine Liturgy
right here on our 1111 Summit property.
As always we will have good food, fantastic fellowship and games for the kids. Stay
tuned for more details.
No Parking on Summit Avenue
On Sunday September 9th from 8am12pm, the westbound lanes will be used
for the Saint Paul Classic Bike Tour and
no parking will be allowed on the north
side of Summit Avenue. Signs will be
posted and please plan accordingly.
Fall Catechism Classes Starting
Classes start Tuesday, September 11th
and run for 12 weeks. The classes are an
Introduction to Orthodox Christianity and
are required if one is preparing for conversion through Baptism and Chrismation. The class is also open to anyone
seeking more information about Orthodoxy without obligation to convert. For
more information, consult the parish website or ask Fr Rick.
Youth Minister Still Needed
Our parish is seeking candidates for a
paid part-time (10-15 hours per week)
youth minister. Under the supervision of
the priest, the youth minister primarily
works with children (toddlers through
Fall Family Camp
Set for October 12-14, Dr. Harry Boosalis high school ages) and their parents to
will speak on the theme: Praxis Makes
plan, create and lead activities throughout
Perfect- the Practice of Love and Prayer.
the year, encouraging greater participaRegister early, space is limited. Question on all levels. This is challenging, yet
tions? Contact Cindy Karos at
rewarding position for a faithful, [email protected] or at 952-929-6371. $89/
ted person with good people and organadult, $68/kids ages 12-18, $55/kids ages 3 izational skills and who loves leading kids
-11, free for kids ages 0-2.
to Christ. Contact Fr. Rick for more info or
to apply.
Loaves & Fishes Update
Thanks to all who helped cook, serve and Maids of Athena & Sons of Pericles
clean-up at Loaves & Fishes Monday, Au- The Minneapolis chapters of Ahepa and
gust 13th. We served over 100 hungry
the Daughters of Penelope are restarting
adults and children and your help is truly their youth chapters. The age is 14 and
appreciated. Without our volunteers this older. These organizations supplement
outreach program could not be done. We the church youth program with philanare still looking for a chair person or cothropic, educational, and mission activichair persons to take over this program. If ties. Anyone interested may contact is Anyou have any questions please feel free to gie Speliopoulos 612-481-9292.
call Sandy Thole or Sue Gnetz.
Philoptochos Update
Please note the following schedule:
Trinity Mission
The food drive for Trinity Mission contin- Sun. 9/1: Special tray collection for HC/
ues throughout the year. Some people
HC scholarships
have much more than they need and then Sat./Sun. 11/17-18: Bake Sale
there is the growing population of poor
Sat. 12/1: Philoptochos/Daughters of
that need so much; including basic human Penelope Christmas Luncheon
necessities like food, clothing and shelter. Tues. 9/11, 10/2, 11/6: meeting at 1:30pm
Please remember those who cannot afford December & January on vacation.
food while you are grocery shopping, and
Daughters of Penelope News
purchase one or more extra items for
Please note the upcoming schedule:
them. Trinity Mission accepts donations
Thurs. 9/20 & 10/18: meeting at 7pm
of any non-perishable food. A list of the
items needed is posted in the lower level November—January: on vacation
Sat. 12/1: Christmas luncheon
of St. George, by the red bins labeled
"Trinity Mission". Thank you!
Congratulations to Tessa Pliakas, one of
If you have any questions and/or you
would like to assist in this rewarding ministry please contact Andrea Faches, 507665-8053 or [email protected].
Focus on FOCUS
The food shelf is extremely low at the FOCUS center this summer; demand is running high. Please bring canned or nonperishing items to the church and they
will be delivered to FOCUS. Thank you in
advance.
Summer Reception a Success
Thank you to Alexis & John Bighley for
Back to Sunday School
hosting a summer reception at their home
The Sunday School year begins on Sepon July 19th. Forty-nine people attended
tember 9th, 2012. Please register your
and engaged in lots of conversations. We
child(ren) online at http://www.nickslook forward to the next gathering spontrip.org/meocca/SundaySchoolForm.html. sored by stewardship committee.
page 4
the 2012 District Scholarship recipients.
Elaine Koutsoukos of Antigone Chepter
35 is the 2012-13 District Governor. Congratulations to her.
May the memory of Mrs. Mary Boosalis,
our beloved sister n Theta Pi, be eternal.
St. Paul. MN
Taste of Greece Festival
St. Mary’s GOC will have their festival on
Friday September 7th through Sunday
September 9th. Tickets are available on
line at www.mplsgreekfest.org or by calling 612-825-9595.
Thank you! To all our volunteers, especially our co-chairs,
Jean Pliakas & Penny Davidson
and their committee, who
worked preparing beforehand
and during our Greek Festival!
Fall Harvest Dinner
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church will host a
Fall Harvest Dinner on Sunday, September 16th at 11:30am. Adults $10, Children
5-12 $5. The church is located at 523 First
St., Clayton, Wisconsin.
St Mary’s OCA Taste of Northeast
Festival
Join St. Mary’s Orthodox Cathedral in NE
Minneapolis, Saturday, September 29th
from 11am-8pm for their 2nd annual
event. Please see flyer in the social hall or
contact the church office for details.
Greek Festival 2012
Job well done!
page 5
(Continued from page 2)
Fast
reminded to "lay aside all earthly cares" in
prayer is to consciously experience the
When we fast, we refrain from unneces-
order to "receive the King of All." The re-
very presence of God in our lives at all
sary foods and entertainments which
ception of Holy Communion fulfills and
times. Before receiving Holy Communion, serve to complicate or control our lives.
completes all that precedes it. Be present
thoughtfully pray at least the prayers con- The general practice among all Orthodox
at the beginning of the Divine Liturgy. In
tained in this booklet, which place us in
fact, arrive a little early and allow yourself
Christians is to fast at least from the night
God's presence and enable us to approach before the reception of the Eucharist.
time to settle in to your surroundings, to
the Eucharist with the proper spiritual
place yourself in God's presence, and to
Hence, you should refrain from eating,
attitude. You will find other prayers in the drinking, smoking, or any other activities
achieve a sense of internal peace and
many prayer books that are readily avail-
or things which would distract you from
calm. Before the Liturgy, refrain from un-
able. Spend some time in silence, striving
reflecting on the meaning of the Eucharist necessary conversation. [Coffee hour is
to hear the voice of Our Lord and to dis-
and the changes you hope to accomplish
the proper place for fellowship.] Reflect
cern His presence. Read and meditate on
in your life. [Some Orthodox Christians
on the psalms being chanted during the
Scriptural passages. The Old Testament
observe a custom by which they fast one,
Hours. During the Liturgy sing the hymns
books of Proverbs and Psalms contain a
two, or three days.] Common sense, of
and focus your attention on their meaning
great deal of wisdom, as do the New Tes-
course, should be employed, especially in
in your own life. Worship with an aware-
tament epistles, especially those of Saint
the case of children, the elderly, those on
ness of those around you, accepting them
John. The writings of the Holy Fathers
medication, those on special medical di-
as "fellow ministers" rather than distrac-
and the lives of the saints also provide
ets, and so forth. When in doubt as to the
tions. Approach the chalice with a spirit,
deep inspiration and food for thought.
meaning or extent of fasting as a prepara-
of humility, thanking Our Lord for mak-
tion for the Eucharist, consult your Spiri-
ing us worthy to receive His heavenly
tual Father.
gifts. It is highly improper to approach the
Participate in the Vespers and Orthros
Saturday Vespers and Sunday Orthros/
chalice if you willfully arrive late for the
Matins prepare us liturgically for the cele- Participate in the Entire Divine Liturgy
Divine Liturgy, especially after the Scrip-
bration of the Eucharist. After attending
If you were invited to a dinner at the
ture readings. However; common sense
these services, refrain from boisterous en-
White House, you would never think of
should be used when you arrive late
tertainments and other things which hin-
arriving late. The Divine Liturgy, the
through no fault of your own [that is, if
der a prayerful, reflective mood. It is im-
Heavenly Banquet at which the host is
you had car trouble or if you encountered
proper to receive the Eucharist the morn-
none other than God Himself, is an even
unexpected traffic delays].
ing after a party which ran until the wee
more important event. Every part of the
hours of the morning. If you must tend to
Liturgy prepares us for the reception of
a social obligation the night before the
the Eucharist. The Liturgy of the Word,
Liturgy, graciously curtail your activities
which centers around the reading of
at a reasonable hour to allow yourself
Scripture, challenges us to approach God
time to prepare for the reception of the
and one another in the proper spirit. Saint
Eucharist.
Cyril of Jerusalem tells us that hearing the
Word of God is, in fact, the first sacrament
we receive during the Divine Liturgy. As
we begin the Eucharistic Liturgy, we are
page 6
St. Paul. MN
Back-to-School Time!
The Sunday School year begins September 9th, 2012. Please register your
child(ren) for class so that we can make our attendance roles and prepare
for another year of youth religious education. Register online at http://
www.nicks-trip.org/meocca/SundaySchoolForm.html.
St. George
Youth
Remember, we encourage strong student participation and recognize all
students who attend 75% of this year`s classes. Please help your student
to meet this goal.
Thanks to all who have participated in making our Sunday School such a
success. If you have any questions and/or you would like to assist in this
rewarding ministry please contact Andrea Faches, 507-665-8053 or
[email protected].
Children are the lambs of the flock. Christ said to the church, “Feed my
lambs.” The lambs belong to the sheep and the sheep to the Shepherd.
Rev. J. J. Barnhardt.
Summer Camp 2012
Sixteen youth from St. George participated in the St. Mary Church Camp program from June 30—July 6 at Camp Wapogasset
in Amery, Wisconsin.
page 7
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage PAID
Twin Cities, MN
Permit No. 177
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
ST. GEORGE GREEK
ORTHODOX CHURCH
1111 Summit Avenue
St. Paul, Minnesota 55105
Phone
Fax
651.222.6220
651.225.9276
www.stgeorgegoc.org
Glad Tidings
September 2012
WEEKDAY WORSHIP SCHE
SCHEDULE
DULE
Elevation of the Cross
Vespers—Thursday, September 12, 6:00pm
Orthros—Friday, September 14, 8:00am
Divine Liturgy—Friday, September 14, 9:00am
REGULAR WEEKLY SERVICES
Holy Confession: By Appointment
Vespers: (Sept. - May) Saturday 5:00 pm
Orthros: Sunday 9:00 am
St. Sophia
Divine Liturgy—Monday, September 17, 9:00am
St. Euphrosyne
Divine Liturgy—Tuesday, September 25, 9:00am
Sunday School: (Sept. - May)
following Communion
Divine Liturgy: Sunday 9:30 am

September 2012
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
Coming in October...
+ECCLESIASTICAL
NEW YEAR
8 Columbus Day Holiday
12-14 Family Camp- Amery, Wisc.
12-14 Metropolis Choir Conf., Chicago IL
14 St. Paraskeva Petka of Romania
23 St. Iakovos- Brother of the Lord
26 St. Demetrios the Great Martyr
27 Liturgy in Eau Claire, Wisconsin
28 Holy Protection Feast & Oxi Day
2
+13TH SUN.
MATTHEW
3
LABOR DAY Office Closed
4
+PROPHET
MOSES
5
6
+FAST DAY
7
+FAST DAY
8
+NATIVITY OF
THEOTOKOS
+8:15am ORTHROS
+9:30am LITURGY
+8:00am ORTHROS
+9:00am LITURGY
9
10
11
+SUNDAY B4 CROSS
12
13
+FAST DAY
+8:15am ORTHROS
+9:30am LITURGY
*11:30am Sunday
School Classes
Begin
*12:00pm Acolyte
Training
14
15
+ELEVATION OF
CROSS - STRICT
FAST DAY
+6:00pm
VESPERS
*7:00pm Catechism
Class w/ Fr. Rick
+8:00am ORTHROS
+9:00am LITURGY
*7:00pm Parish
Council
*4:00pm Feed
the Hungry at
FOCUS, MN
16
+SUNDAY AFT.
CROSS
+ST. EUPHEMIA
+8:15am ORTHROS
+9:30am LITURGY
17
18
+ST. SOPHIA
20
+ST. EUSTATHIOS
21
22
28
29
+FAST DAY
+9:00am LITURGY
*12:00pm Church
Picnic on parish
grounds
*7:00pm Bible
Study at Fr. Rick's
Home
*4:00pm Feed
the Hungry at
FOCUS, MN
*7:00pm Catechism
Class
23
+1ST SUN. LUKE
+CONCEPTION
OF FORERUNNER
+8:15am ORTHROS
+9:30am LITURGY
19
+FAST DAY
24
+MARTYRS ST.
THEKLA & ST.
JUVENAL OF
ALASKA
25
+ST.
EUPHROSYNE
+9:00am LITURGY
26
+FAST DAY
+DORMITION OF
ST. JOHN
THEOLOGIAN
27
+FAST DAY
+9:30am Divine
Liturgy in Eau
Claire, WI
*1:00pm Missions
& Benevolence
*7:00pm Catechism Meeting
Class
*4:00pm Feed
the Hungry at
FOCUS, MN
30
+2ND SUN. LUKE
+8:15am ORTHROS
+9:30am LITURGY
St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 1111 Summit Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105
+ Rev. Father Richard Demetrius Andrews -- Phone: (651) 222-6220 -- www.stgeorgegoc.org +
Minnesota Eastern Orthodox
Christian Clergy Association
www.meocca.org
Rev. Fr. Richard Andrews, Catechism Coordinator
C/O St. George Greek Orthodox Church
1111 Summit Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55105
Phone 651-222-6220
Fax 651-225-9276
INTRODUCTION TO ORTHODOX CHRISTIANITY
FALL 2012
Tuesdays 7:00-9:00PM
DATE
September 11
September 18
September 25
October 2
October 9
October 16
October 23
October 30
November 6
November 13
November 20
November 27
December 4
TOPIC
Introduction
God- Holy Trinity
Mankind- Creation, the Fall, Messiah
Christ I- Incarnation, Theotokos & Saints
Christ II- His Work & Teachings
Church I- Birth, Mission, Structure
Church II- Councils, Creeds, Bible, Tradition
Sacraments I- Baptism, Chrismation, Confession, Unction
Sacraments II- Eucharist, Liturgy, Worship, Prayer
Sacraments III- Marriage & Monasticism
NO CLASS – THANKSGIVING WEEK HOLIDAY
The Goal- Second Coming & Living the Christian Life
Conclusion- Orthodoxy in America, Jurisdictions, Q&A
INSTRUCTOR
Fr. Richard Andrews
Dcn. Paul Gavrilyuk
Fr. Thaddeus Wojcik
Fr. Thomas Begley
Fr. Paul Wesche
Fr. Jonathan Proctor
Fr. Thaddeus Wojcik
Fr. Thomas Begley
Fr. Paul Wesche
Fr. Andrew Morbey
Fr. Richard Andrews
Fr. Andrew Morbey
Texts: Introducing the Orthodox Church by Anthony Coniaris, The Orthodox Church by Kallistos Ware, The
Orthodox Way by Ware, The Faith by Clark Carlton.
Cost: FREE (Sponsored by Clergy Association)
Location: St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 1111 Summit Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105, 651-222-6220,
www.stgeorgegoc.org
REGISTRATION FORM
NAME:
ADDRESS:
CITY:
STATE:
ZIP:
PHONE:
EMAIL ADDRESS:
ARE YOU ORTHODOX:
YES
NO
(circle one)
IF NO, WHAT RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION:
PARISH:
WHAT BEST DESCRIBES WHY YOU ARE ATTENDING THIS CLASS:
1. Just interested in learning more about the Orthodox Faith.
2. Seeking to prepare to join the Orthodox Christian Faith.
3. Not sure yet.
REGISTRATION FEE: FREE
PREFERRED BOOK:
1
Instructors
Fr. Richard Andrews is pastor of St. George Greek Orthodox Christian Church in St. Paul, MN and a
volunteer chaplain with the St. Paul Police Department. He is a graduate of University of Minnesota (BS
1988) Minneapolis, MN and Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology (MDiv 1994) Boston, MA.
Fr. Thomas Begley is priest/pastor of St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church in West St. Paul, MN and
Dean of the Midwest Deanery of the Diocese of Toledo, of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese. He is
a graduate of Hope College in Holland, MI, (BA 1974) and Oral Robets Seminary, (MDiv. 1984). He
attended St. Vladimir's Orthodox Seminary, Crestwood, NY (1983-84).
Deacon Paul Gavrilyuk serves at the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church (OCA) in St Paul. He holds a Ph.D.
in the History of Christianity from Southern Methodist University (2001) and a B. S. in Theoretical
Physics from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (1993). He is Associate Professor of
Historical Theology at the University of St Thomas specializing in Early Church History and Modern
Russian Theology. His books include The Suffering of the Impassible God: The Dialectics of Patristic
Thought (Oxford, 2004) and A History of the Catechumenate in the Early Church (Cerf, 2008; in French;
Russian edn. 2001).
Fr Andrew Morbey is Dean of St Mary's Orthodox Cathedral in northeast Minneapolis. His degrees are in
English (BA, MA, and PhD course work; Carleton University and University of Ottawa) and Theology
(MDiv, ThM, and PhD course work; St Vladimir's Seminary, Union Theological Seminary in Virginia,
and at the University of Birmingham, UK). He taught various subjects in Theology at the University of St
Paul in Ottawa, Canada 1998 - 2003 prior to moving to Minneapolis.
Fr. Jonathan Proctor is priest/pastor of Holy Trinity Orthodox Christian Church in Saint Paul. He is a
graduate of the University of the Witwatersrand (BA) and St. Vladimir's Orthodox Seminary (MDiv
1990), New York, NY, and studied theology at the University of Athens, Greece.
Fr. Paul Wesche is priest/pastor of St. Herman’s Orthodox Christian Church in South Minneapolis. He is
a graduate of Nazarene Theological Seminary (Masters of Divinity), Kansas City, MO and St. Vladimir’s
Orthodox Seminary (Masters of Theology), Crestwood, NY, and Fordham University (Ph.D in Patristics
1986), New York, NY.
Fr. Thaddeus Wojcik is a retired priest who serves at various parishes including Holy Assumption
Orthodox Church in Lublin, WI, St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Stanley, WI., and St. Mary's
Orthodox Church in Cornucopia, WI. He is Dean Emeritus of the Minneapolis Deanery in the Midwest
Diocese of the Orthodox Church of America. Currently, an Adjunct Professor of Theology at the
University of St. Thomas, Saint Paul, MN (since 2005). He is a graduate of University of Minnesota (BA,
1964) and St. Vladimir's Orthodox Seminary (M.Div. 1968).
2
St George Greek Orthodox Church
2012-2013
Starting Date: Sept. 9, 2012
Student Registration Form
For Online Registration:
http://www.nickstrip.org/meocca/SundaySchoolForm.html
Parent Information
Name(s):
_________________________________________________________
Address:
_________________________________________________________
Phone:
__________________________________________________________
E-mail: ___________________Emergency Contact/Cell Number:
___________________
Student Information
Name/DOB/Grade in Fall/Email:
______________________________________
Name/DOB/Grade in Fall/Email:
______________________________________
Name/DOB/Grade in Fall/Email:
______________________________________
Name/DOB/Grade in Fall/Email:
______________________________________
Name/DOB/Grade in Fall/Email:
______________________________________
Parent/Guardian
Contributions:
I am interested in helping
in the following way:
Teacher
Substitute
Teacher
Arts/Craft Program
Assistant
Teacher
Class Room
Assistant
Administration
Music
Program
Policy
Development
Other____________________________
_
See Back for IMPORTANT information
2012 – 2013 St. George Greek Orthodox Church
SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR
CLASSES TO BE HELD UNLESS NOTED
Sept. 9
Sept. 14
Sept. 16
Sunday School Begins/Church Picnic
Elevation of the Cross
OCF Sunday
Oct. 12
Oct. 28
FAMILY CAMP
OXI DAY – Greek School Program
Nov.
Nov.
Nov.
Nov.
4
15
18
25
NO SS Classes
Philoptochos & Patriarchate Sunday
(Nativity Fast Begins Nov. 15)
IOCC Sunday; Philoptochos Bake Sale
Thanksgiving Weekend
Dec.
Dec.
Dec.
Dec.
Dec.
2
9
16
23
30
No SS Classes
Christmas
Christmas
Christmas
Christmas
Christmas
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
6
13
20
27
No SS Classes
No SS Classes
Christmas Break
Vasilopita Sunday
Feb.
Feb.
Feb.
Feb.
3
10
17
24
St. George Oratorical Fest.–Godparent/Godchild/Newcomer Day
GOYAL Western Region Tournament – Milwaukee, WI
Mar. 3
March 10
March 17
Mar. 24
No SS Classes
Mar. 31
April
April
April
April
Program rehearsal
Program rehearsal
Program Rehearsal
Program
Break
Meatfare Sunday
Cheesefare & Forgiveness Sunday Great Lent begins March 18
Sunday of Orthodoxy – Procession of Icons
7
14
21
28
No SS Classes
Sunday of the Holy Cross – Procession with crosses
No SS Classes
Palm Sunday
May 5
May 12
May 19
No SS Classes
Holy Pascha/Festival of Nations
Mother’s Day – Last Regular Class
Graduation Sunday
Graduation
Proposed Calendar – 5/2012
1
e
k
s
a
P
M
e
s
r
i
fe
x
c
a
r
t
The
Practice
of
Love
:
P
and Prayer
Join us this October as welcome as our featured speaker our own Dr. Harry Boosalis, Th.D, professor of
dogmatic theology at St. Tikhon’s Seminary and nationally renowned parish and clergy retreat leader. Dr.
Boosalis will lead us as we explore the theme, “Praxis Makes Perfect: The Practice of Love and Prayer.” The
weekend will include presentation, Q & A, and practical application for all!
Family Camp is a great opportunity to share a weekend of fun and spiritual growth with your family and other
Twin Cities Orthodox friends at a beautiful retreat center only 1½ hours away! Families will eat, worship, learn,
and play together! Age appropriate activities and sessions are planned for children and teens while parents
attend the presentation/discussion groups. Each family has a private sleeping area with a bathroom. What a
wonderful way to introduce a new camper to their summer camping destination!
Registration: Space is Limited! Register early and spread the word to your family and friends. Registration fees
include two nights lodging, five meals, all programming and tons of fun!
Over 18………….$89.00
Age 12-18……….$68.00
Age 3-11……….$55.00
Age 0-2………...Free
Maximum Family Fee is $350
Non Refundable after October 1, 2012.
Questions? Contact Paul or Cindy Karos at [email protected] or at (952) 929-6371. Registration forms available
at all Orthodox Churches or at www.stmarysgoc.org.
St. Mary’s Greek Orthodox Church
3450 Irving Avenue South • Minneapolis, MN 55408
(612) 825-2525
Family Camp 2012
October 12-14
Camp Wapogasset, in Amery, Wisconsin
the beautiful home of St. Mary’s Summer Camp
St. Mary’s Family Camp Registration 2012
Name: ________________________
Phone: _____________
Address: ____________________________________________
City: _____________________
E-Mail _____________
State: _____ Zip Code: _____
Home Parish: _____________________
Parent(s)_______________________________amount:__________
Parent(s)____________________________amount:_________
Children
age:
grade:
amount:
_____________________________________
______
______
_____________________________________
______
______
_____________________________________
______
______
_____________________________________
______
______
Total amount due for the family: ___________________________
Rooms sleep eight people. Is there someone (family, friends) with whom you
would be willing to share a room? Yes__ No__
Who?_________________________
Arrival will begin on Friday at 4 pm. We plan to have dinner at 6 pm Friday
night. The weekend will conclude Sunday following Liturgy and brunch.
What time do you anticipate arriving at camp? ___________
Check in will be held at Crossfire Hall where room assignments will be available.
We have the opportunity to hire qualified staff for the high ropes course. For a
small additional fee, how many from your family (13 years +) would be
interested? ___ (informational only—commitments will be made later)
Register Early! Limited Space!
Adults over 18 ... ……$89.00
Age 3-11. ............ $55.00
Age 12-17………………$68.00
Age 0-2 .............. FREE
Maximum family fee is $350.
NON-REFUNDABLE AFTER OCTOBER 1ST
Send completed forms and payment to:
St. Mary’s Greek Orthodox Church, 3450 Irving Avenue South,
Minneapolis, MN 55408. Attn: Family Camp.
Registration is first come, first served upon receipt of payment.
Please contact your parish priest for financial assistance.