The Promise Oct. 2013

October 2013 ^ Volume 37, Issue 6

HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH

WESTFIELD ^ NEW JERSEY

[email protected] 908-233-8533 holytrinitywestfield.org

PromiseThe

Wait for the promise of the Father 1

■ THE REVEREND PETER DELVIZIS

Jesus Christ has endowed His Church with a divine gift - participation in the Mystic Supper which is the highest privilege given to man. This special meal is known as the Eucharistic

Banquet or Holy Communion. By participating in this meal, the faithful consume Christ’s hallowed Body and precious Blood. Holy Communion is both a mystery and a sacrifi ce left to the Church as a perpetual remembrance of Christ for man’s spiritual nourishment. Through Holy Communion, mankind communes with God making him a participant in Divine Life.The Saviour says, Most assuredly, I say to you, unless you eat the fl esh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.- John 6:53 The only path to authentic life in this world and eternal life in the world to come is through Christ.The Eucharist was introduced by our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, who not only spoke of it but celebrated it on the eve of His Crucifi xion. After He had eaten with His apostles, He took bread and prayed to the Heavenly Father; and He blessed it and broke it and said, Take, eat, this is My Body.

Then He took a cup, and after He had fi lled it with wine He gave it to His apostles and

said, Drink of it, all of you, for this is My Blood of the New Testament, which is shed for you and for many, for the remission of sins. Do this in remembrance of Me.

“How should I prepare for Holy Communion?”

As a Christian, you should prepare for Holy Communion through continuous action

(effort). You should receive Communion as frequently as possible when you have labored to

receive it and have asked Christ constantly for it. You should not receive merely out of custom, not because of holy day obligations, not “four” times per year, not out of fright, nor because of approaching death. Holy

Communion should be an exercise and a “fi lling-up” of faith. When you are moved by faith and have a constant desire to be with Christ, when you seek His will and do it, when you

have prayed in earnest for the forgiveness of sins, then you are on the road of acceptable preparation.

Some remember a time when it was “taught” to receive Holy Communion just a few times per year. This was oftentimes preceded by a long and extensive fast. Today,

we are “taught” to receive it every Sunday or whenever the Eucharist is offered Pag. 3

Matthew 9:27-35 (7th Sunday of Matthew)

Much attention has been drawn to bullying in recent years. A bully frightens and plays on the weakness or the inherent goodness of others. They will taunt,

be verbally aggressive and even become physically violent. Their actions are usually done in secret – away from any authority fi gure.Also more recently in the news is the debate about sports fi gures being role models. Case in point Major League Baseball is suspending a number of players, most notable, Alex Rodriquez for violating policy using illegal chemically enhancing substances such as human growth hormone.

Also reported is an alarming increase in the number of NFL players arrested for serious criminal offenses. Lost in this debate is the mention of the real role models in society: teachers, law enforcement offi cers, fi remen, and I will add clergy members.The Gospel shows us that bullies and role models have lived among us for quite some time. In scripture, Christ (the ultimate role model) is always seen healing the broken nature of humanity by a word and with a touch. His mission of restoring the dignity of true personhood to those who are frail or exhausted by sickness or whose spirit has failed them

Part oneConcerning Holy Communion

consume Christ’s hallowed Body and precious Blood. Holy Communion is both

left to the Church as a perpetual remembrance of Christ for man’s spiritual nourishment. Through Holy Communion, mankind communes with God making him a participant in

Most assuredly, I say to you, unless you eat the fl esh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.- John 6:53 The only path to authentic life in this world and eternal life in the world to come is through Christ.The Eucharist was introduced by our Lord

to the Heavenly Father; and He blessed it Take, eat, this is My Body.

it with wine He gave it to His apostles and

for many, for the remission of sins. Do this in

“How should I prepare for Holy Communion?”

As a Christian, you should prepare for Holy Communion through continuous action

(effort). You should receive Communion as frequently as possible when you have labored to

receive it and have asked Christ constantly for it. You should not receive merely out of custom, not because of holy day obligations, not “four” times per year, not out of fright, nor because of approaching death. Holy

Communion should be an exercise and a “fi lling-up” of faith. When you are moved by faith and have a constant desire to be with Christ, when you seek His will and do it, when you

have prayed in earnest for the forgiveness of sins, then you are on the road of acceptable preparation.

Some remember a time when it was “taught” to receive Holy Communion just a few times per year. This was oftentimes preceded by a long and extensive fast. Today,

we are “taught” to receive it every Sunday or whenever the Eucharist is offered

THE BULLY AND THE ROLE MODEL Pag. 5

ThePromise-OCT2013.indd 1 10/9/13 9:31 AM

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey2 The Promise ^ Ocotober 2013 ^ Volume 37, Issue 6

11:00 AM Trinity Circle4:00 PM Greek School

St. Luke the Evangelist8:30 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy7:00 PM Harvest Dance – State Youth8:15 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy7:30 PM NNJYC

St. James, The Brother of The Lord8:30 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

10:00 AM TOTs4:00 PM Greek School

St. Demetrios8:30 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

11:00 AM Baptism8:15 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

Philoptochos 50/50 Raffl e6:30 PM Greek Dance

Lord & Taylor-Shop Smart. Do Good

4:00 PM Greek School7 / 7:30 PM Greek Dance / Choir2:00 PM Wedding

8:15 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

JOY/HOPE event6:30 PM Greek Dance4:00 PM Greek School

4:00 PM Greek School7 / 7:30 PM Greek Dance / Choir

Synaxis of the Archangels, Michael and Gabriel8:30 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

St. Nektarios the Wonderworker8:30 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

8:15 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy6:30 PM Greek Dance

Sts. Victor and Vikenzios, Menas8:30 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy4:00 PM Greek School7:00 PM Philoptochos Board Meeting

St. John Chrysostom8:30 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

10:00 AM TOTs4:00 PM Greek School

7 / 7:30 PM Greek Dance / ChoirNativity Fast Begins

11:00 AM Baptism

8:15 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

Youth Sunday and Brunch7:30 PM NNJYC

11:00 AM Trinity Circle4:00 PM Greek School

Entrance of the Theotokos8:30 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy4:00 PM Greek School

7 / 7:30 PM Greek Dance / Choir8:15 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy6:30 PM Greek Dance

St. Katherine the Great Martyr8:30 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

Thanksgiving Day

Offi ce Closed

St. Andrew8:30 AM Orthros9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

October - NovemberDates in the Life of Our Church

SUN20

SUN27

MON11

MON21

SUN17

SAT30

WED23

SUN24

SUN10

FRI8

TUE15FRI18

FRI15

THUR24SAT26

WED30THUR31SAT2

SUN3

TUE5

SAT16

TUE12

THUR14

MON18TUE19THUR21

FRI29

THUR28

THUR7

SAT9

WED13

MON25


Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church ^ Westfield, New Jersey The Promise ^ Ocotober 2013 ^ Volume 37, Issue 6 3

Pag. 1 CONCERNING HOLY COMMUNIONwith hardly any preparation whatsoever. It does seem that there exists, then and now, a fuzzy understanding about how to properly prepare for Holy Communion. Over the decades the pendulum has swung in the opposite direction. This perceived change leaves many questioning how, or when did a change take place.Well, to reassure all, nothing has changed regarding the Orthodox understanding of the Eucharist. What may have changed is the approach, or mindset, of how one should prepare himself before receiving Holy Communion.“I’m all for frequent communion, but not casual communion.”

A few years back, I attended a seminar with Metropolitan Kallistos of Diokleia (Timothy Ware) who was discussing Holy Communion preparation. This prominent Orthodox theologian and author stated with certainty that, “I am all for frequent communion, just not casual communion.”His Eminence’s statement should be taken to heart. Pastorally, I believe one should receive Holy Communion every Sunday and at every liturgy. The purpose of a Eucharistic celebration is for the faithful to participate in this banquet by eating and drinking of the Body and Blood of Christ. Wouldn’t it be rude to attend a dinner party and not eat anything offered to you by the host? How bad-mannered is it then not to eat at the Eucharistic Banquet. Holy Communion is offered for no other purpose than for you to consume it, to partake of it. Abstention from receiving Holy Communion is symptomatic of spiritual impediments. Therefore, you cannot fully participate in the Divine Liturgy without receiving Holy Communion. If you do not receive Holy Communion then you neither participate in the life of the Church or in the life Christ. However, great care must be taken as we approach Holy Communion. It is neither a “treat” that we award ourselves for being “good” throughout the course of a week; nor is it a “gift” owed to us. Without laboring for it, without desiring to receive it, without seeking divine mercy, we demean not the sacred gifts but rather ourselves. After its consecration by the descent of the Holy Spirit it becomes completely and truly the manifestation of Christ’s Body and Blood. It is God alone who makes this change and authenticates its sanctity through the faithful’s consent. We add nothing to it nor can we subtract from it. Holy Communion is what it is. The prayers of the Church teach that the Eucharist contains the power to generate a change within you. Holy Communion heals the believer and condemns the skeptic

and neither one can add to its holiness or desecrate its purity.In partaking of Communion, you are entering the moment of your sanctifi cation, becoming holy. Your body and soul becomes an acceptable tabernacle of the divine Gifts. The Lord in this visible form enters you and abides in your whole being. This is your path to oneness with Christ. As you can see, Holy Communion is something extraordinarily unique. Therefore, special preparations help you to connect your life with its holiness. Most of us give no special signifi cance to common foods. Common foods are quickly taken and abruptly swallowed. Do not treat Holy Communion as a common food. You must be aware of its supernatural nature. Watch the priest as he, with great care and caution, handles these sacred gifts. Not even a crumb may fall without his considering how to retrieve and consume it, even if it falls to the ground!Having introduced this topic, an Orthodox Christian is expected to follow the Sacred Canons and Holy Traditions concerning the reception of Holy Communion. The fi rst and most important is a complete fast the day of receiving. In other words, nothing is to be taken by the mouth the morning of receiving Holy Communion. Pastoral exceptions are medications. But even this has limitations. If food is needed with medication, then the instructions on how to take the medication are followed but this rarely involves a whole breakfast with say, eggs and coffee! Such an act would take advantage of a pastoral exception (economia) and is dishonest (dishonesty cannot be associated with Holy Communion). This article will continue next month with more specifi cs on preparations. But I encourage you to read the prayers of Preparation for Holy Communion that are included also in this month’s The Promise. See page 4th. ^

The BookstoreFind Orthodox Prayers for Every Need At the Church Book Store!

■ SANDY MOURATOGLOU & ANDREA BLASI

This month we are featuring MY DAILY ORTHODOX PRAYER BOOK, compiled and edited by Anthony M. Coniaris.

This book explains the Orthodox Rule of Prayer and gives an ample defi nition of prayer. Other prayers, too numerous to mention, include those for before and after Holy Communion, for meals, for reading God’s Word, for various daily hours, written by various Saints, to one’s Patron

Saint and Guardian Angel, for hope, for light, guidance, strength in time of trouble, and the various intercessory prayers.Of special note are the various short prayers such as are suggested by Abba Macarius and John Climacus, to aid mediation: “The quiet repetition of a single word can help us to descend with the mind into the heart.”

Browse our other offerings: if you don’t see what you want, we can order it for you! ^

Saint and Guardian Angel, for hope, for light, guidance, strength in time of trouble, and the various intercessory

Of special note are the various short prayers such as are suggested by Abba Macarius and John Climacus, to aid

“The quiet repetition of a single word can help us to descend

Browse our other offerings: if you don’t see what you want,



Prayers Before Receiving Holy Communion

As you are about to eat the Body of the Master, approach with fear lest you be burned, for it is fi re. And before you drink in communion

the Blood, be fi rst reconciled with all those you have offended; then you may take courage to eat the mystic Food. Before you take part in the awesome sacrifi ce of the life-giving body of the Master, take care and pray with fear of God:

SaintÊ BasilÕ sÊ PrayerMaster, Lord Jesus Christ our God, the source of life and of immortality, creator of everything visible and invisible, coeternal and co-everlasting Son of the Father without beginning; because of abundant goodness, You put on fl esh and were crucifi ed and buried for us unthankful and ungrateful people in these latter days, and have by Your own blood renewed our nature corrupted by sin. Accept, Immortal King, my repentance, that of a sinner, and turn towards me, and hear my words. I have sinned, Lord, I have sinned before heaven and before You, and I am not worthy to look upon the height of Your glory, for I have provoked Your goodness. I have transgressed Your commandments. I have disobeyed Your ordinances. But You, Lord, being long-suffering, and of great mercy, do not remember evil, and have not given me over to destruction because of my lawlessness, but have ever awaited my con version. You who love all people, said by Your prophet, I do not desire the death of a sinner but that he should turn and live. For, Master, You do not wish that the work of Your hands should perish, nor do You take pleasure in the destruction of human beings, but desire that everyone should be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. There fore, even I, although I am unworthy both of heaven and earth and of this temporary life, having wholly yielded myself to sin, and become the slave of pleasure and have de fi led Your image, yet being Your creature and of Your shaping, I do not despair for my salvation in my wretchedness. But I am em boldened by Your infi nite compassion and I draw near. Therefore, O Christ, You who love all people, receive even me as the harlot, as the thief, as the publican, as the prodigal. Take away the heavy burden of my sins,

You who take away the sin of the world, who heal the infi rmities of all people, who call to Yourself the weary and burdened and give them rest, who came not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance. Do cleanse me from defi lement of the fl esh and spirit, and teach me to fulfi ll holiness in Your fear, that in the pure testimony of my conscience, receiving my portion of Your holy gifts, I may be united to Your holy body and precious blood, and have You dwell and remain within me with the Father and your Holy Spirit. Yes, Lord Jesus Christ my God, grant that the communion of Your holy and life-giving mysteries may not be

to my condemnation. Do not let me be affl icted in soul and body by partaking of them unworthily. But grant that to the last breath of my life I shall partake of my share uncondemned of Your holy gifts, looking to the fellowship of the Holy Spirit for eternal life, and to a favorable answer at Your awesome judgment seat, that even I may also become a partaker with Your elect of Your incorruptible blessings which You have prepared for those who love You and in whom, Lord, You are glorifi ed to the ages of ages. Amen.

SaintÊ BasilÕ sÊ PrayerI know, Lord, that I partake unworthily of Your pure Body and precious Blood, and that I am guilty, my Christ and my God, as I eat and drink condemnation

to myself not discerning Your Body and Blood. Yet, emboldened by Your loving kindnesses, I come to You, who said, He who eats My fl esh and drinks My blood, abides in Me and I in him. Take pity, therefore, Lord, and do not rebuke me, a sinner, but deal with me mercifully. Let these holy gifts give me healing and cleansing, enlightenment and protection, salvation and sanctifi cation of soul and body. May they avert every fantasy, evil practice, and operation of the devil enacted in my members by design. May they give me confi dence in and love for You; amendment of life and perseverance, increase of virtue and perfection, fulfi llment of Your commandments, fellowship of the Holy Spirit, provisions for the journey of eternal life, and an acceptable answer at the awesome judgment seat. But let them not be for judgment or condemnation. Amen.

JohnÊ ChrysostomÕ sÊ PrayerLord Jesus Christ my God, absolve, remit, forgive, and pardon me, Your sinful, unprofi table, and unworthy servant the errors, transgressions, and trespasses which I have committed from my youth to the present day and hour, whether in knowledge or in ignorance, in words, or deeds, or thoughts, or reasonings and pursuits, and in all my senses. And through the intercession of the all pure and ever-virgin Mary, Your Mother, who conceived You without sin, my only hope, protection, and salvation, count me worthy, uncondemned, to partake of Your pure and immortal and life-giving, awesome Mysteries, for the remission of sins, for eternal life, for sanctifi cation and enlightenment, for strength, and healing and health of both soul and body, for the erasing and complete removal of my evil thoughts and recollections, superstitions and nocturnal phantasies brought by dark and evil spirits. For Yours is the kingdom, the power, the honor, and worship, together with the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and forever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.

To read the entire series of Prayers simply visit: http://www.goarch.org/chapel/liturgical_texts/daily_prayers ^

to my condemnation. Do not let me be



Parish CouncilPresident’s Message

■ AGAPIOS KYRITSIS, PARISH COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Dear Holy Trinity Brothers and Sisters,

The New Church Year has hit the ground running with all programs and ministries working at full

steam. Sunday School, Greek School, and all the youth programs are still accepting membership and registration. Your Parish Council has been working all summer attending to several maintenance projects in order to maintain the integrity of our beautiful facilities. The classroom hallways have been freshly painted as well as new varnish put on the doors, our new and improved sound system is now installed. With it, many complements regarding improved sound quality has been made. Additionally, all kitchen equipment and

refrigeration is being well maintained and the supplies are kept in an orderly fashion. Special thanks to Notis Kotsolios who has worked overtime this summer overseeing all the maintenance projects our church is undertaking so we may be ready to start the new Ecclesiastical year.I would like to personally thank Mike Savvorgianakis and Michael Savva for joining me in helping to establish new kitchen protocols so that all our ministries may get the benefi t of our kitchen facilities. I would also like to thank Chris Vasilopoulos for his constant and unspoken contributions to our church. Chris helped provide for our Sept 8th fi rst annual stewardship picnic to become a huge success. Kudos to the whole community for your participation and fellowship! There were an estimated 300 people in attendance.

Every Sunday as you attend liturgy, I would also like to mention that you will notice a different Parish Council member behind the Pangari. We are here to help and serve you any way possible as you enter the newly renovated exonarthex and narthex. Our departed and beloved brother Dino Genakos left behind a wonderful legacy which we honor.

In closing, I would like to mention that Father Peter and I will be attending an Archdiocesan Family Ministry Conference in Minneapolis from September 25-28. At the conference we will share and discuss the successes of Holy Trinity with other priests and parish leaders from across America, as well as, learn how to enhance our own ministries. All this is done to help maintain our unique and truly special parish. ^

is wondrous and miraculous. His ministry is as much alive today as it was then.

The true role model of today is the one who can heal with a word or action and bring those closer to God. Most of our so called “role models” of today are far from this.

If we look closely, we can see similarities between the bully of today and of yesterday. In the time of Christ, who was it that always discredits and attempts to humiliate Christ? The Pharisees are the bullies of yesterday since they were the ones who overlooked the goodness of divine actions. They take advantage of Christ’s gentle spirit and goodness by censure.

They use their authority to subjugate people to their belief. Then they question Jesus’ motives ascribing demonic traits to His divine actions. (Matt. 9:34) Their reproach is unfounded and toxic. How absurd attributing evil to good. In other words, like Hollywood, the media or the so-called modern sensibility that which is sacred is trampled upon. There is an attempt to desecrate that which is good; to lower the sublime nature then label it as unholy. In a sickening twist, there is also an attempt to take that which is sinful, and by highlighting the decadence and pleasure it temporarily provides dubs it virtuous.

The unfortunate thing is that many people buy into this notion…they drink the Kool-Aid of a modern world view.

What do the twisted so-called “role models” of today preach? Christians are bad and evil people; while druggies, harlots and the gangster mentality are good. Real role models are boring, stupid and bound to rules while saying that the ignorant, uneducated man is fun and free. In this twisted world, it’s the renegade who is smart since he can think outside the box. So as Fyodor Dostoevsky points out in Crime and Punishment the distorted mind thinks that such a person should be allowed to operate above laws since he provides a service to society.

The sad thing about all of this is that many listen to these modern day bullies who

attempt to discredit Christ, the Church, the clergy, and that which is true and holy.

The devil tries to confuse the mind by taking your attention away from that which is important and true. The devil knows something that we might not know: the soul innately needs someone else. We need a role model, we need a sav ior. So the devil tries to makes gods and role models out of that which is bad so that our human nature is lowered….so that we are not helped….so that we remain blind and sick, and stupid….so that we perish.

Only God can save us. Therefore, a Christian must be Christ-centered. For when we fi ght a spiritual battle we must have Christ as our defense; truth as armor.

If we look at things from a sensible point of view, here’s something the modern world won’t tell you and the devil, that big bully, keeps secret from you:

In the end, who actually wins the war? Is it one who’s doped up or the one who’s clean; the one who’s drunk or the one who’s sober; the one who’s insane or the one who’s sane; the one who’s warped or the who’s straight. The real answer is the one who is strong, good, holy and virtuous wins in the end…not the sinner!

God wins! And those who are with Him will victoriously enter into His kingdom.

Sermon given by Fr. Peter, August 11th, 2013 ^

Pag. 1 THE BULLY AND THE ROLE MODEL



Parish LifeHOLY CROSS CELEBRATION, ASBURY PARK

Sr. Diver, Elias Vitoroulis; Jr. Diver, Loukas Carayannopoulos.

Sr. Diver, Andriana Kanaras; Jr. Diver, Cipriana Christodoulou.

Holy Trinity Families at Asbury Park.



HOLY CROSS CELEBRATION, ASBURY PARK

Holy Trinity Families at Asbury Park.



Male Vocal WorkshopFor the fi rst time, the District of New Jersey of the Eastern Federation of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians is sponsoring a workshop with an emphasis on Male Voices including a Master Class. Yes, you heard right. It is time to give some serious thought to our men who would like to improve their voices including choir members, non-choir members, psalti and priests. Look around at your choirs (especially church choirs) and you will notice that men are among the missing. We need you “guys”.Our clinician will be Robert Osborne who has sung in the “Spirit of Lent” Concerts for several years as our professional bass. Those of you have sung in these concerts will remember him and how he energizes the men as well as the entire choir. Go to his website to see his accomplishments: www.RobertOsborne.netSo please save the date, Saturday, Nov. 16 fro m 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Hosted here at Holy Trinity, Westfi eld. Price is only $20, snacks included. Checks made to EFGOCM-NJ. See Kathryn Athanasoulas for a fl yer and application. Encourage all of your male friends to come. Christmas music will be provided. Don’t miss this workshop.

■ PENNY PEFANIS, PRESIDENTTo aid the poor, the aged, the hungry, the needy, and the sick through charitable works performed with discretion, courtesy, and kindness.

Human beings are the crowning jewel of creation, and we shine the brightest not

when we see our own likeness refl ected in others but when each of us performs the unique functions that God designed for us to do. “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them.” Rom. 12:6Cynthia Ladas and Julie Exarhakos, co-chairs, coordinated a mammoth effort and delivered a well-orchestrated sale of Vintage Treasures and Classic Collectables. Proceeds

will augment the printing of our soon-to-be released cookbook. Kudos to you and your team of volunteers. We extend our deepest gratitude to all who helped in every way.Anna Savva will be chairing the Breast Cancer Awareness Table for the month of October. Marina LoAlbo has diligently coordinated the “Fifty/Fifty Raffl e” that will be drawn in the Bouras Center on October 27.We are also partnering with Lord & Taylor in the Shop Smart. Do Good. Event in Westfi eld scheduled for October 30. See Debra Vlahakis to purchase your $5 coupon which L & T donates entirely back to us.On October 9 join us for coffee and the

fi rst General Meeting. Stella Wacker will present photos and discussion of her trip to Constantinople in June 2013.Sophie Stappas is chairing the “Soles for Souls Annual Collection.” Please bring in any size new sneakers for those who are in dire need of their fi rst pair of shoes.We invite you all to participate in a trip to Philadelphia to view exhibits at the Barnes Museum preceded with lunch. Details, unavailable at print time, will be communicated. See further info at the Philoptochos Table and Bulletin Board.JOIN US! Our door is always open to each and every one of you. ^

Philoptochos

■ KATHRYN ATHANSOULAS

A number of our choir members will be attending the annual conference of the Eastern Federation of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians (EFGOCM) at St. Katherine, Falls Church, Virginia from October

17 to October 20. As a result the choir will not sing on Sunday the 20. We are not abandoning our choir but rekindling our commitment to choir by learning new Liturgies, sharpening our singing skills, communicating with fellow choir members in wonderful fellowship and keeping our choirs alive and well. ^

Annual Conference at St. Katherine, Falls Church, Virginia

Holy Trinity Choir

FROM THE YHT PRESIDENTGOYA

The 37th Christ Encounter weekend will take place on September 20-22nd at the YMCA Camp Bernie facility in Port Murray, NJ. Approximately 50 GOYANS will attend. This includes

15 fi rst timers! What a tremendous turnout! Two Holy Cross Seminarians, Cassandra Garibaldi and Thomas Manuel, will join us in leading the retreat sessions. The theme this year is 1 Timothy 4:12: Do not let them look down on you because you are you, but set an example to the believers through speech, conduct, love, faith and purity.

Activities planned for the weekend include a guided hike, teambuilding games, zip lining, climbing tower, archery and candle making.The retreat is a time for faith, fellowship and fun and always a highlight of the year.The Holy Trinity GOYA is very excited to be hosting the fi rst GOYA dance of the year. The Harvest Dance, will be held on Friday, October 18th and we are expecting approximately 400 kids

with advisors to enjoy an evening of food, dancing and fellowship amongst the GOYAs in NJ. If you have a GOYAN between the ages of 12-18 and interested, please come by the Youth table during fellowship hour or visit our webpage.

ATHLETICS UPDATE■ BY CHRIS BOUTSAKARISHello fellow GOYANs,

I am extremely excited to be your new athletic liaison. There are a few exciting activities we are planning this year. We are in the process of putting together a Jr. girls volleyball team. Also, we are planning on attending a New York Red Bulls soccer game some time in the fall. Lastly, for the Sr. and Jr. boys basketball team, and the girls Sr. and Jr. volleyball teams, we are in the process of setting a date to attend a college basketball game this winter as well as scheduling a college volleyball game this upcoming year. I’m looking forward to successful seasons from all of our teams. ^



Please print your name(s) clearly and as you wish it to appear on the “COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CARD.”

Name: ____________________________________________________________________

Address: ________________________________City:____________________ZIP:_______

Tel.: ____________________________Check # ________ $________ Cash: $__________Donation: $10.00. Please return by December 8, 2013 and make your check payable to:

“Holy Trinity Ladies Philoptochos.” Thank you for your support. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 250 Gallows Hill Road, Westfield, NJ 07090-1109

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SignÊ upÊ forÊ HolyÊ TrinityÕ sÊ CommunityÊ ChristmasÊ CardSignÊ upÊ forÊ HolyÊ TrinityÕ sÊ CommunityÊ ChristmasÊ CardSignÊ upÊ forÊ HolyÊ TrinityÕ sÊ CommunityÊ ChristmasÊ CardSignÊ upÊ forÊ HolyÊ TrinityÕ sÊ CommunityÊ ChristmasÊ CardSignÊ upÊ forÊ HolyÊ TrinityÕ sÊ CommunityÊ ChristmasÊ CardSignÊ upÊ forÊ HolyÊ TrinityÕ sÊ CommunityÊ ChristmasÊ CardOnce again, we invite you to participate in this community expression of joy over our Lord’s birth. Every member and friend of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church mailing list will receive a copy of the COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CARD imprinted with the names of those who have donated. This year we will donate all of the proceeds to the International Rett Syndrome Foundation www.rettsyndrome.org.Please complete the form below and send it in with your check.The minimum donation is $10.00 per family. (Larger donations will be appreciated).

New members and those not listed in the Parish Directory must include their address.For convenience in handling, please make your payment by check.DEADLINE - Return to the Church Offi ce by Sunday, December 8, 2013. Names received after December 8th may not appear on the card. Please return the bottom portion along with your donation. Thank you.If more information is desired, please contact Julie Exarhakos, 908-272-0623 or Mary Skiadas, 732-469-4988.



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• Greek Wines from different regions.• Various kinds of Ouzo, Rakhi & Arak.

• Great selection of Liquors & Beer

Kristin TenczaPrincipal

IT Solutions - Proactive Support,Websites & Custom Programming

2124 Oak Tree Rd. 2nd Fl. Edison, NJ 08820

[email protected]

www.asis-nj.comASIS, LLCWe Make Technology Work For You

Kristin TenczaPrincipal

IT Solutions - Proactive Support,Websites & Custom Programming

2124 Oak Tree Rd. 2nd Fl. Edison, NJ 08820

[email protected]

www.asis-nj.com

ALLYSON AGATHIS, M.D. Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatrics Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics

Specializing in Kids

395 Main Street, Bedminster, NJ 07921Ph.: 908.719.2626• Fax: 908.719-2671

Anna Shoshilos d.o., llcBoard Certi� ed

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGYLaparoscopy / Robotic Surgery

784 Chimney Rock Road, Suite GMartinsville, New Jersey 08836

Tel.: 732.271.1771 • Fax: 732.271.9477

PromiseTheAdvertise in

CONSTANCE EFTHEMIOS-THOMAS

PIANO LESSONS

908•803•2511Gallows Hill Road

Cranford, NJ 07016

Vincent Cavallaro727 S. Middlesex Ave.Colonia, NJ 07067

Nicholas & Elizabeth Lentis2326 Long fellow Ave.Scotch Plains, NJ 07076

George & Erica Koufakis5 Castle Dr.Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922

Efthymios & Parthena Frantzeskakis948 Willow Grove Rd.Westfi eld, NJ 07090

NEW MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH

SACRAMENTS & RITESBAPTISMSSat., August 4Justin PhilipSon of Jamie & Kristin Soltys

Sat., August 10Alexandra KirstenDaughter of George& Erica Koufakis

Sun., August 11Ava Eleni & Autumn SophiaDaughters of Michael& Constantina CoppolaCHURCHINGSSun., July 21Thomas MatthewSon of Matthew& Amber Santiago

Sun., July 21Madison JoyDaughter of Michael& Lauren Joy Butler

Sun., Sep. 1Evanthia PaoneDaughter of Chris& Kathy Paone

Sun., Sep. 1Georgios AspromatisSon of Harilaos& Sevasti Aspromatis

WEDDINGSSat., August 17Andrea Yeager& Kevin Fontana

Sat., Sep. 28Stephanie Padakis& John YoccaFUNERALSSat., July 27^ Roseanne StampoulosThurs., Sep. 5^ George Cladis


The Promise ^ Ocotober 2013 ^ Volume 37, Issue 6 11

PARAS & PARASMETRO APPRAISALGEORGE PARAS, S.C.G.R.E.A.Appraisal/Consulting

e-mail: [email protected]

340 Main StreetMadison, NJ 07940

Tel.: 973-236-0100Fax: 908-277-3050Cell.: 201-681-5366

Restaurant & TavernSince 1934

Your HostsAgapios Kyritsis

Apostolos Apostolou

Open 7 days, Lunch & Dinner, Catering, Wines & Spirits.

527 Morris Ave., Summit, NJ 07901908• 277• 4492 - email: [email protected]

www.marcopolonj.com

Photography by KostasCall me for your special occasion

Kostas Lymperopoulos908• 370• 7149

20 Claremont Ave.Colonia, NJ 07067

[email protected]

FlowersbyEllie.com Call us for Weddings,

Family Funerals,Christenings,

Corporate Events.Freelance Florists

No overhead!Great Prices

Serving most of NJWe're back in business!

Spread the News!ELLIE ZERVAKOS COVIELLO & JOE COVIELLOfl [email protected] • 908-285-3095

228 Saint Paul StreetWestfi eld, NJ 07090www.paularfandisdds.com908-232-0074


Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

Non Profi t Org.US postage

PAIDRahway, NJ

Permit No. 654

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

250 Gallows Hill Road ^ Westfi eld, NJ 07090Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church

Wait for

of the FatherPromiseThe

Change Service Requested

Metropolis ofNew Jersey

The Promise: Volume 37, Issue 6

10 issues published annually. No subscription fee.Article deadline - 10th of the preceding month

Schedule of Services

Sundays Weekdays

Orthros 8:15 AM 8:30 AM

Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM 9:30 AM

Ministries

Parish Council Agapios KyritsisPhiloptochos Penny Pefanis

Religious Education Jenny Hantzios-BasisGreek School Rita Fitanidis

Youth (GOYA) Nik KarsosJOY / HOPE Julie Vagelos

& Peggy TsirigotisTOTS Joanne Paras

Bookstore Sandy MouratoglouCultural Barbara Manos

Greek School PTO Christina WarnickTrinity Circle Antoinette Genakos

Worship

Psaltis Pascalis KuvalakisChoir Director Kathryn Athanasoulas

Organist Phyllis VerenesHead Acolyte Nik Karsos

Office Staff

Accountant Diana R. WaltsakCaretaker Ocione Nunes

Admin. Assistant E. Joy Daniledes

Contact Information

Mailing Address 250 Gallows Hill Rd.Westfi eld, NJ 07090-1109

Phone 908-233-8533

Fax 908-233-0623

E-mail HtgocWestfi [email protected]

Web site holytrinitywestfi eld.org

Presiding Priest Rev. Peter Delvizis

E-mail [email protected]


Documents

The Promise Oct. 2013