February 2018 / Issued January 23, 2018 Volume 76-Issue #1 Let's Go Back To the 60's & See How Far We've Come - Church of the Annunciation
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February 2018 / Issued January 23, 2018
Volume 76—Issue #1
Let’s Go Back To the 60’s & See How Far We’ve Come
1
On Our Cover
Do you recognize this photograph on our cover? It is the view of our property from
the curb along Oaklawn Avenue back in the mid 1960s. Some of those trees are still
there, but most of them were cleared away and our Neo-Byzantine Church was com-
pleted behind those trees, up on the hillside, as it stands today to God's glory!
Then on March 24, 1968, the Thyranixia Service (door opening service) was conducted
and a new phase of church life began for our parish community…..in it's third church
edifice (Smith Street, to Pine Street, to Oaklawn Avenue). A blessed anniversary year
to us all.
This important anniversary represents more than the
acquisition of property and the erection and occupancy of a building.
It reflects the courageous spirit and high priority given
to the worship of God by the parish leadership and
faithful communicants.
Our first duty is to commend them on this occasion!
Our second duty is to emulate them and their sacrifice of time, talent and treasury. This
is the task of all of us as we renovate and enhance the church interior this 50th anniver-
sary year through our Phase 2 Program. We welcome everyone's support, whatever the
amount might be. This of course has been discussed previously. Now is the time to act
if you have not already done so, in fact it is both a responsibility for all of us and a spe-
cial privilege to be an active participant in restoring our church to it’s original beauty
and beyond.
The additional aspect of any anniversary is to "rededicate our efforts." In this case, for
a church building anniversary ..... we are called to intensify our witness and faithfulness
in living a Christ-centered life. We must hold fast to our rich Orthodox Heritage and
pass it on to the next generation so they will have an anniversary to rejoice over in the
up-coming 50 years. This is accomplished by our personal presence in church, in wor-
ship and praise on a regular basis. Each one of you should make this a reality.
Fr. Andrew
2
2018 Parish Council
Council President - Kevin Phelan
Vice President - Theofanis Markos
Secretary - Elaine Otto
Treasurer - James Silva
Assistant Treasurer - Jason Maintanis
Additional 2018 Council members are: Alex Carr, Elaine Crabtree, Gail Erinakes, An-
thony George, Paul Pliakas. We warmly thank Paraskeve (Voula) Devlin and Dina Mi-
hos who completed their service on the parish council this past 2017 year.
Service on the parish council is important to be shared.
For those interested in serving in the future, should plan to attend a
"council orientation seminar" to be held -
THUR FEB 22 at 6:30PM, or MON FEB 26 at 7:30PM
(sign up for one or the other—call the parish office).
New from the Parish Council
In an effort to have direct and regular communication, there will be a “meeting review” included in our
Annunciator. There is also a "button" on a parish web page to communicate with the parish council,
for questions or suggestions.
Parishioners are reminded, which has always been the case, that any sustaining steward of the parish
can attend regular council meetings as observers. These are normally held on the 3rd Tues of the month
at 7:30PM, but always posted in the parish calendar.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Dr. Mary Despina Lekas Endowment Fund News
Financial Report for the period ending 12/31/17
Endowment Fund Portfolio: $896,504.29
Endowment Fund Checking Account: $39,075.40
A donation has been made to the Endowment Fund by:
M/M Polydoros Petrou in memory of Carroll Promades
A donation has been made to the Endowment Fund by:
Anna Demetrakas, Dionisia Grammas, M/M Michael Haralambides,
Elizabeth Marses & M/M Peter Microulis,
in memory of Eleni Psikakos
A donation has been made to the Endowment Fund by:
M/M Michael Haralambides in memory of Dr. Christos D. Katsetos
A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!
3
Festival Donation Omission
In the recent Festival Donor Report mailed to the parish, missing from that report was
the donation by Dr & Mrs. Chris Chihlas who donated for the Pastry Ingredients.
Thank You for the Wall Calendars
We would like to thank the Perdikakis Family once again for their generosity,
for our Church Wall Calendars that they donate to the church.
It is very much appreciated, and given to all our active parishioners,
allowing us to have this on our wall at home which reminds us of our holy days.
Therein we thank God everyday for all the Blessings He grants us.
Thank You to the Demetrakas Family
We would like to thank the Demetrakas Family for the Christmas adornment in the
Demetrakas Hall this year, in memory of Gregory Demetrakas, the first Christmas
since his passing. This was a wonderful gift to the parish of great beauty, adding to
the solemnity of our transformed hall, in that we were unable to have
Christmas Services in the church itself.
Thankfully we had the Demetrakas Hall to fulfill our spiritual needs.
Christmas Season Special Donations
We wish to thank Dr James & Susanna Manis for two poinsettia plants in memory of
Elias Bassakyros & Trigona Liakos; Alex and Jennifer Carr for the floral frame for the
Nativity Icons and Estelle & Fred Demars for the floral frame for the Epiphany icons in
memory of her sister Harriet Butler and her son Mark Davis. We also thank AJ Rosaki
for several cases of Christmas themed Voortman cookies used in our coffee hours.
Speaking of Sunday Coffee Hour
Thank you to Koula Rougas for coordinating our coffee hours for 27 years-ordering
and scheduling as key components and commend her for her commitment! The new
coordinator on behalf of Philoptochos who oversees the program, is Fadia Sarkis. She
can be reached at 401-944-4063.
“The Trojan Women”
From Monday February 12 to Monday March 26 a seven week seminar will
be offered on Euripides' classical masterpiece " The Trojan Women".
The central theme of this tragedy is the horror of war and the ruins
it leaves behind both for the victor and the vanquished alike.
With deep psychological insight and realism Euripides describes the
suffering and the anguish of the innocent women and children in the
hands of the victorious Greeks and condemns the cruelty and futility of the war.
The class will be held at the community center of the Assumption Parish—Pawtucket every
Monday from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. For more information, call John Lyssikatos at—401-728-4452.
4
2017 PLEDGE PROGRAM REPORT
We have to date 432 parishioners with a pledge of $231,557.00 as of 12/31/17
The Actual Amount Received as of December 31, 2017 was $227,277.00
Since our last newsletter, the following pledges have been received for 2017:
Jon P. Alexion, M/M Matthew Anthony, Olga Antoniou, Stephen Antoniou,
M/M Michael Balasco, M/M Michael Baldoumis, Nicholas Bouris, Anna Bunch,
M/M Marcus Cacchillo, Dr. Maria Constantinou & Mr. Michael Santos, Thomas
Cragin III, Vivian Dafoulas, M/M Kenneth Falcone, Mersine Florio, Georgia Fortu-
nato, M/M Antonis Gavrielides, Emanuel Georgiladakis, M/M Brendan Hermiz, Peter
Hoopis, M/M James Hosey, Dr. & Mrs. Robert Janigian Jr., Dr. & Mrs. Theodore
Kanelos, Dr. & Mrs. Elias Koutros, Dr. Andrew Lekos, M/M James Maintanis, Peter
Manis, M/M Christo Mantsos, Smaro Mantsos, Tammy Mantsos, M/M Anthony Mas-
simino, M/M Andrew Mihailides, Peter Mihailides, John Mihelakos, M/M George
Moragemos, Lorena Pesek, M/M Petros Petrou, Dr. & Mrs. Demetrius Photopoulos,
M/M John Politis, M/M William Rougas, M/M Jason Savoie, M/M Robert Senerchia,
M/M Ernest Sotirakos, M/M Edward Tarbox, M/M Christos Tsiakiris, M/M George
Tsimikas.
Christmas Donations / THANK YOU for your Generosity
Josephine Aliferakis, Elaine Allendorf, M/M Christodoulos Andriotis, M/M Dionysius
Argeris, M/M Dimitrios Arsenis, Chrisoula Arsoniadis, M/M Savvas Arsoniadis,
Nicholas Bouris, M/M Michael Campopiano, M/M Gerald Carignan, Sue Cimino,
M/M Thomas Coyne, M/M Constantinos Dafoulas, Haralambos Dafoulas, M/M Gaby
Daiaa, M/M Wilfred Demars, M/M James Demetriou, Helen DiMaio, Louis Dostou,
Rev. Andrew George, Constance Georgeadys, Argiri Ghionis, M/M Constantine Gram-
mas, Dionisia Grammas, M/M/ James Grammas, George Hantzakos, M/M Elias Har-
alambides, M/M Michael Haralambides, M/M Demetrios Harritos, M/M Christopher
Hoopis, Margaret Janikies, Julie Karahalios, M/M Arthur Kazianis, Zoe Kazianis,
James Kripotos, M/M Spiro Kyriakakis, Niki Kyrou, Angelo Lazarides, M/M William
Lehourites, Dr. & Mrs. James Manis, Peter Manis, M/M Christos Mantsos, M/M Theo-
fanis Markos, Elizabeth Marses, Marianthi Mastriano, M/M Vasilios Melanis,
M/M Emmanuel Mihailides, M/M George Mihailides, Jean Mihelakos, M/M Andrew
Mitrelis, M/M Theodore Moran, M/M Harry Nicolopoulos, Theodore Nicolopoulos,
M/M Christo Pakuris, M/M Ernest Pappas, Mary Pereira, Thomai Petropoulos,
M/M Polydoros Petrou, M/M Kevin Phelan, M/M Gus Proyous, John B. Quinn, Mary
Quinn, M/M James Rengigas & Family, M/M Steven Rothemich, M/M Richard Scott,
M/M Raymond Sinapi Jr., M/M Michael Sotirakos, M/M Panagiotis Stasinopoulos,
Elle Strekouras, Ethel Strekouras, Virginia Strekouras, M/M Georgios Theodosiou,
M/M Hrisostomos Tsioplakis, M/M Aristotelis Tsonis, Antonia Vani-
kiotis, Dr. & Mrs. Michael Vezeridis, James Vose, Zambeta Xiarhos,
Peter Yidiaris, M/M Frank Zavota.
Total Donated $2,950.00
5
Annunciation Church School Outreach Fundraiser
The land between the Mediterranean Sea and
Jordon River was called after the year 70AD,
Palestina by the Romans, when the Jewish
people were killed or driven out of this area
and their temple destroyed. This land was first
called “The Holy Land” by Emperor Constan-
tine in the 4th century, as it was the birthplace
and homeland of Christ and his first followers.
Prior to 1948, the population of Jerusalem was
almost half Christian, with roots going directly
back to the apostles and the first converts to
Christianity. Currently, less that 2% of the
four million persons in Palestine are Christian.
This percentage continues to fall due to the
terrible wars and violence between Israelis and Palestinians and to the discriminatory
policies practiced by the Israeli government. This is a sad state for the sacred land
where Jews, Muslims and Christians should be co-existing. Instead Jews and the Mus-
lims are killing each other, and the Christians are quickly disappearing to other coun-
tries.
The Taybeh Education Fund was established as an endowment to help with education
of Palestinian Christians in the village of Taybeh, the only remaining 100% Christian
town in Palestine. With a population less than 2000 persons and a failed economy due
to lack of jobs and housing, outside help is necessary to educate needy students. Please
help support an ongoing Christian presence in Palestine.
Every Sunday, our Church School collection benefits a girl in Taybeh named Katrina..
Families are reminded to have the children bring something for the collection, whatever the amount.
It is a wonderful learning practice as well ,teaching our children to help the less fortunate.
Let’s help her go to school! Annual School Tuition: $350.00
Katrina is 7 years old & is in the 2nd grade. She is the youngest of three children.
Katrina’s father works in a nearby town bottling oil & making candles. Her mother
works at an elderly home in Taybeh. Our annual monetary support will allow Katrina
to attend the local, Christian school and get an education.
For more info, contact Elaine Otto at nitsa1028@hotmail.com
6
The Financial Corner
Now that 2017 has ended I think it would be appropriate to review our financial perfor-
mance during 2017. Stewardship is a very important aspect of our total revenue during
the year. Below you can see what our performance has been over the past 10 years.
STEWARDSHIP
2008 $269,424.00 555 units 2013 $249,265.00 480 units
2009 $263,283.00 536 units 2014 $253,075.00 497 units
2010 $267,464.00 520 units 2015 $239,347.00 461 units
2011 $252,017.00 494 units 2016 $232,707.00 469 units
2012 $251,791.00 493 units 2017 $231,557.00 432 units
Stewardship pledged units have decreased dramatically every year. We have lost
123 pledge units last year when compared to 2008. Even though the amount of
the pledges hasn’t changed dramatically, the number of people pledging support
is dwindling. Not a good trend.
Since our stewardship contributions have not increased very much over the years it has
affected our ability to pay daily expenses. Every year we must transfer money from the
revenues generated at the previous festival to pay the expenses in a timely fashion. See
below:
REVENUE / EXPENSE RATIO
Total 2017 Revenues Excluding Festival $466,663.00
Total 2017 Expenses $648,320.00
Total Shortfall in Revenues $181,657.00
Festival Transfers $132,767.00
It was necessary to transfer $132,767.00 from the 2016 Festival revenues to pay our
bills during 2017.
We continue to transfer money even during January of this year. Current transfers
have been $15,000.00.
As you can see we continue to depend on our three-day festival to “make ends meet”.
This is a very dangerous practice because God forbid inclement weather could wash out
the festival.
The new 2018 Stewardship program just began. We recently mailed out the
“2018 Stewardship of Treasury Response Form” to everyone.
With that said, please be as generous as possible when you submit your 2018 pledge.
Thank you.
Submitted by James Silva
7
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PHASE 2
On Sunday January 14, 2018 after liturgy, an informational meeting was held at coffee hour re-
garding the repairs and renovations inside the church. Hopefully you were able to attend this meet-
ing. Work inside our church is going well and hopefully we will be able to have church services in-
side the church soon.
Since the printing of our last Annunciator we have received 15 new pledges
from the following people:
Savvas & Fotini Arsoniadis & Family, Gregory G. Gatos, Anthony George,
Michael & Pauline Haralambides, Dr. & Mrs. Apostoulos D. Kallis, Peter Manis
M/M Theofanis Markos, Costas & Ann Perdikakis, Polydoros & Liza Petrou, John B. Quinn
M/M Dionisios Sampalis, Panagiota Saviou, Mirela Stancu,
M/M Dean Vose & Family, Russell & Lisa Wheatley, Charles & Judith Xynellis
We now have 119 families who have pledged a total amount of $240,947.00. Of this amount
$190,829.50 has been paid.
Thank you to all who have pledged a donation. If you have not yet made a pledge please do so.
Every dollar that is pledged is one less dollar we will need to borrow from the bank.
Submitted by James Silva
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Plaque to be Made of Phase 2 Donors
As announced back in the initial Phase 2 Fund Drive appeal in 2016, recognition will be
identified on a commemorative plaque per specified Donor Levels:
Grand Benefactor: $10,000 or greater
Benefactor: $5,000—$9,999
Sponsor: $1,500—$4,999
Patron: $500—$1,499
Donations are welcomed in any amount.
Phase 2 Pledge Forms were mailed out once again this past October.
If you have misplaced it, simply contact the Parish Office for an additional one.
Thank you for your love and pride in our Parish and,
in particular the church edifice itself which is the heart of our Parish life.
Let’s now move forward in the giant footsteps of
our forefathers who first built the church.
Recent Deaths
Eleni Psikakos, age 86, of Cranston, RI passed away on 12/18/17; the funeral and buri-
al was held on 12/23/17. The mother of Dorothea Kazianis, Jennie Mustakos, of Paw-
tucket, RI, passed away on 1/6/18; her funeral and burial was at the Assumption Church,
Pawtucket, on 1/10/18. Former parishioner Christoforos Xiarhos, age 66, of N. Provi-
dence, RI passed away on 1/14/18.
~May Their Memory be Eternal~
8Parish Council Highlights from January’s Meeting
Submitted by Alex Carr
1. Correspondence to the church from the Archdiocese, Metropolis, and local levels.
A) From the Archdiocese, we received the official announcement that the National Clergy-Laity Congress will be in
Boston on 1-5 July. The theme is “All Things are Possible to the Ones Who Believes in Christ.” Additionally, the Archdi-
ocese through Philoptochos, has sponsored a telephone discussion group for those undergoing cancer treatment; email
for more information.
B) From the Metropolis, a letter reviewing the successes in funding of the Philoxenia House and the Camp & Retreat
Center. The Philoxenia House serves as a temporary home on the grounds of the Hellenic College for families of chil-
dren undergoing medical treatments, all at no charge to the families. The funding challenges this past year relates to
the difficulties at the Archdiocese, in which the Metropolis has not received any of its annual funding for its operations.
Currently the Metropolis is dependent upon local resources from its parishes and faithful through the FOS Program.
C) At the local level, our parish received a letter from the Elisha Project thanking us for the use of our kitchen dur-
ing their baking session; the Elisha Project distributed baked goods to the homeless this past Christmas.
2. Jim Silva presented his treasurer’s report, which included the summary figures for last year. The good news is that
our actual revenues (not including the festival) very closely matched what we had budgeted for last year. The not so
good news is that our actual expenditures were more than what we had expected (also, not counting the festival). For
the month of December alone, collections from candles, trays, and stewardship failed to keep up with the expenses for
the month; for every $1.00 we collected in December, we had to pay out $1.12. This was attributed to the loss in votive
candle offerings during Phase 2 for we are unable to keep them lit in the hall.
3. Kevin Phelan gave his president’s report and highlighted the Apokriatiko that will be on February 10th. He also
reviewed the practice of signatory protocol for checks and the policy of our bank concerning parish organizations.
4. Fr Andrew’s priest’s report pointed out that Fr Gregory Houlakis, the priest monk who has long been a fixture of the
Rhode Island Orthodox community, will soon be returning to Greece for good. The Assumption parish in Pawtucket
held a tribute to Fr Gregory that was very well attended and Fr Andrew expressed the desire to have Fr Gregory come
here for a last Liturgy with us as well. Also in Fr Andrew’s report he included some preliminary findings from the
Archdiocese regarding the financial situation there.
5. In the House Committee’s report, we learned that there was flooding over the weekend of 12 January in the down-
stairs classroom area, gas line leak, elevator oil leak; that there is a need for a new washer machine, leaking ceiling pipe
and the various water fountains are in need of repair.
6. The Stewardship Committee is putting out a call for new members. There will be a meeting on the 7th of February
at 7:30pm for those who are interested in learning more about serving.
7. Sandra Maliangos will fill one of the vacancies on the parish council, pending approval from the Metropolis.
8. Phase 2 pledges continue to come in; to date we have received pledges for $241,000. Fr Andrew urged the parish
council to aim for $300,000 in fundraising so that we reduce the final amount that we will have to borrow. We received
good feedback from the Phase 2 info session held after Liturgy on 14 January. The parish council discussed what we will
do with the old icon screen; some proposals were to donate to a fledgling parish or to sell the individual icons to parish-
ioners to help offset the cost of the new icon screen. No formal decision was made.
9. We will be requesting volunteers to come help clean/dust/tidy up the church once the workmen have finished.
Please contact the office if you would like to help out.
Lastly, our parish feast day (25 March) falls directly on a Sunday this year. There will be a fish dinner to celebrate
along with the annual program of the Greek School children. Tickets will be $15 and $8 for a pasta dinner.
9PARISH ECCLESIASTICAL REVIEW
2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010
WEDDINGS 7 19 4 12 13 8 11 11
BAPTISMS 25 25 25 26 16 22 23 13
CHRISMATIONS 2 7 0 1 3 3 4 4
FUNERALS 21 14 25 21 21 27 25 31
TOTALS 55 65 54 60 53 60 62 59
Marriages 2017:
Steven Muccino to Cynthia Driscoll both from North Providence on Feb. 18.
Demetrios Melanis to Flora Delis both from Coventry on April 22.
Eric Dearborn Fitzhugh from Rockville, RI to Bianca Sinapi from Cranston on April 29.
Gregory Mihailides to Lauren Croda both from Washington, DC on 28.
Chad Barnes to Elizabeth Mihopoulos both from Lincoln on July 23.
Nikolaos Boulaxis to Maria Degaitas both from Johnston on Oct. 7.
Andrew Rougas to Stephanie Papadopoulos both from Norwood, MA Nov. 18.
Out of State Parishioner Marriage:
Kevin Joseph Williams to Maria Chippis both from Cranston on July 2. (Married In Greece)
Andrew F. Otto to Jennifer Aboshar married on Nov 11, at St. George Chapel, NH
Chrismations (Adult Conversions)
Constantinos Gionis on March 7 from Catholic Church. Sponsor was Zoe Bruno.
David John Loffler on July 30 from Catholic Church. Sponsor was Charles Tsoumakas Sr.
SOME NATIONAL ARCHDIOCESEAN STATISTICS:
Year Baptisms Chrismations Marriages Divorces Funerals
Between Inter Between Inter
Orthodox Christian Orthodox Christian
——————————————————————————————————————————
2012 6286 871 1133 1488 193 184 4161
_____________________________________________________________________________________
2013 5842 850 970 1470 221 241 4189
_____________________________________________________________________________________
2014 5816 841 1000 1411 207 199 4362
_____________________________________________________________________________________
2015 5683 818 949 1387 202 190 4324
10BAPTISMS:
Charles son of Christopher & Alexandra Lungi on Jan.7. Godparent was Peter Cavas Mitson.
Eleni daughter of Matthew & Marina Barboza on Feb. 17. Godparent was Elizabeth Marses.
Petra Lia daughter of Nicholas & Sadie Elisseou on March 4. Godparent was Alexa Barchini.
Antonios son of Constantinos & Jamie Papaioannou on April 23. Godparent was Evridiki
Papaioannou.
James Nicholas son of Youssef & Sophia Rizk on April 29. Godparent was Nicholas
Fircanis.
Sebastian Spyridon Gabriel son of Stamatios & Erika Revis on May 7. Godparents were
Katerina & Edward Tarbox.
Riley Lynn (Eleni) daughter of Michael & Jennifer Hayes on May 13. Godparent was Jason
Xynellis.
Natalie Sofia daughter of Joel Carlo & Amanda Stone on May 20. Godparent was Ana
Falcone.
William John son of Sean & Stephanie Todd on May 20. Godparent was Michael Kapos.
Conor Edward James son of Peter & Adeline Bradshaw on May 27. Godparent was Peter
Pascalides.
Julia Penelope daughter of James & Katherine Rebello on June 25. Godparent was Stephanie
Danos.
Lilliana Rose daughter of Zachary Tsoumakas & Victoria Adams on July 2.
Godparent was Jessica Loffler.
Zoe Frances daughter of David & Jessica Loffler on July 30. Godparents were Amanda
Tsoumakas.
Aurora Candice daughter of Samuel Cardarelli & Alexandra Deshaies on Aug. 26.
Godparent was Demitria Anne Cardarelli.
Theia Orion (Theodora) daughter of Paul & Jessica Hosey on Sept. 24. Godparent was
Alexis George.
Celina Christine daughter of William Kitsilis & Alecia Carmody on Sept. 24. Godparent was
Nikolas Kitsilis.
Kay Sophia daughter of Steven & Tricia Rougas on Oct. 1. Godparent was Nicole Grammas.
Amory Thomas son of Christopher & Andrea Love on Oct. 22. Godparents were Nicole
Zervos & Alex Baryiames.
Helen Sophia daughter of David & Melissa Parker on Oct. 22. Godparents were Beth &
Kosta Baryiames.
Demi Melina daughter of Gregory & Mandinia Gatos on Oct. 22. Godparents were Kostas &
Stephanie Dokos.
Evangelos son of Basilios & Elizabeth Tsimikas on Oct. 29. Godparent was Nicholas
Sullivan.
Cameron Jon son of Jonathan & Thomai Dion on Nov. 11. Godparents were Nikolaos
Petropoulos.
Constantinos John son of Constantinos (Dean) & Melissa Perdikakis on Nov. 11.
Godparent was Dimitrios Markos.
Liliana Sophia daughter of Alexander & Jennifer Carr on Nov. 18. Godparent was Olivia
Carr.
Vivian Sophia daughter of Nicholas & Andrea Sullivan on Nov. 19. Godparent was Christos
Vasiliadis.
11Some of our parish teens out to dinner following their ski outing on 1/20/18
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
GOYA INVITES YOU TO THEIR ANNUAL
GODPARENT & GODCHILD LUNCHEON
Sunday, February 4, 2018
Buffet Luncheon
Please RSVP by February 1st
Before February 1st: Adults—$10 Children (2-12) -$7
After February 1st: Adults—$15 Children (2-12) - $10
Full tables and “to go” orders must be pre-ordered by February 1st
RSVP to Katherine Mitrelis by call, text, or email at:
(401) 632-5110 or katherinemitrelis.25@gmail.com
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Metropolis Winter Camp Weekend
Friday evening Feb 16—Monday afternoon 19, 2018
Registration can be done on line at: www.metropolisofbostoncamp.org
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sun Feb 4—Godparents’ Sunday—Luncheon following Liturgy
Sun Feb 11—Full Liturgy through Holy Communion; Choir Rehearsal; Staff Meeting With Rev Dr An-
ton Vrame, Director of Religious Education for the GO Archdiocese of America.
Sun Feb 18—Full Liturgy through Holy Communion; Forgiveness Prayers; Distribution of OCMC box-
es; Choir Rehearsal
Mon Feb 19—Clean Monday—Great Lent Begins; Children’s Compline Service at 4:00pm
Sun Feb 25—Sunday of Orthodoxy; Liturgy through Gospel; Icon Procession with all students; Food
Drive
12Dear Philoptochos sisters!
Below are the January Programs and Ministry Commitments.
Academy of Saint Basil
In March 1944, Archbishop Athenagoras recommended that the Philoptochos Society purchase
the 250 acre Rupert Estate in Garrison, New York, located on the shores of the Hudson River,
directly across from the United States Military Academy at West Point. With that purchase,
Philoptochos undertook the daunting task of completely renovating the property. Today,
Philoptochos remains a major financial supporter of the Academy through two ministry com-
mitments:
• Vasilopita: Held in January by every chapter in the United States, this event provides a major
source of funding for the Academy’s operating expenses.
• Sisterhood: The Sisterhood fund provides for the ongoing needs of the children of the Acade-
my, such as clothing, furnishings, equipment and other essentials for the dormitories and kitch-
ens, as well as support for the Graduation ceremonies and special awards for students.
Social Services Fund and Cancer/Other Major Illness Fund
Following the recommendations of Archbishop Iakovos, Philoptochos has, since the late 1950s,
focused on the implementation of important programs to benefit the Greek Orthodox Communi-
ty, including but not limited to the institutions of the church, but also programs assisting Ortho-
dox families. Emerging social and moral issues motivated the establishment of several commit-
tees to address topics such as child abuse prevention, domestic violence, homelessness, sub-
stance abuse disorders and mental illness, aging and family services. Since 1987, the National
Philoptochos Office has employed a licensed Social Worker to assist the Greek Orthodox com-
munity in the United States, as well as Greek and Cypriot nationals. The Department of Social
Services is a critical and vital component of the Society. The mission of the Department
is to improve the quality of life of those in need, in a way that maintains the dignity and
self-respect of the individual. Through confidential and professional services, the office
provides outreach, education, information, support, motivation, advocacy, financial as-
sistance and referrals to local and broader resources. As uncovered medical costs con-
tinue to be a key concern in the United States, the Philoptochos cancer and other major
illness’ fund provides some relief to members of our community, regardless of immi-
gration status, so that they can focus on their health and health care needs rather than
their financial challenges.
COME AND JOIN PHILOPTOCHOS
Why do we want you to become an active and supporting member?
Because you want to give back!
Because you enjoy being part of a group of women who are currently friends and be-
come family!
Because you want to connect to a world that has become increasingly disconnected!
Because you care! You REALLY do care!
13THE GOOD SAMARITAN PHILOPTOCHOS CHAPTER NEWS
“Foodless Ticketless Vasilopita Luncheon”: Since we are holding church services in our Cen-
ter, we are unable to host the Vasilopita Luncheon. In its place, we are having a “Foodless
Ticketless Luncheon” where we ask you to please donate whatever you would have donated to
purchase Vasilopita Luncheon tickets for you and your family and friends. All monies raised will
be sent to National Philoptochos for our Chapter’s Vasilopita Obligation for the 2018 year. Send
your check to the parish office payable to “Philoptochos”, attention “Vasilopita”. Thank you!
Katie Silva, Roula Proyous & Eleni Trikoulis
Gratifying Christmas Visitations: Our annual Christmas visitations and gift-giving for our dear
shut-ins was a wonderful experience for all involved. A heartfelt thank you to Ann Heberg and
Ginger Pappas for purchasing and organizing the gifts. They were very festive! Also, a very
grateful thank you to our members who took the time to show their true kindness by visiting our
shut-ins in December. Among those who volunteered were Josie Aliferakis, Maria Coclin, An-
na Demetrakas, Karen Drager, Denise Grammas, Bessie Papigiotis and Katie Silva! You
made a difference!
Wonderful News to Share! Our November meeting event featured a presentation of Beauty
Counter products by Gia Kazianis Jeas and Deborah Flynn Trikoulis. They spoke about their
mission of safer beauty products and from our sales and donations, they have donated $300. to the
Ronald McDonald House in Philoptochos’ name and honor. The winner of the hostess reward
was Gail Erinakes! We, in turn, THANK YOU for your donations and time to come to our
meeting and THANK YOU to all who came and purchased products!
Stewardship & St. Basil Sisterhood: Don’t forget to pay your Chapter stewardship and St. Bas-
il Sisterhood contribution via separate checks, both made out to “Philoptochos”, but write
“Stewardship” or “Sisterhood” in the memo line! Please mail your checks to the Parish Office.
Attention “Philoptochos.”
Regarding Stewardship, each April, we are required to submit to National our Per Capita (annual
stewardship) of $15 per member and our Metropolis Per Capita of $5 per member. Any addition-
al money that you kindly submit to us is used by our Chapter for its many charities and is greatly
appreciated! A record of your donation history will be mailed to each member shortly, but in the
meantime, call Mary Samaras at (401-781-5528) if you have any stewardship questions.
Regarding Sisterhood, have you ever wondered what the voluntary $5 donation to the St. Basil
“Sisterhood” means? The Sisterhood Fund provides for the ongoing needs of the children of St.
Basil Academy, such as clothing, furnishings, equipment and other essentials
for the dormitories and kitchens, as well as support for the Graduation
ceremonies and special awards for students. Please call Carol Rothemich
(401-787-5496) for St. Basil Sisterhood questions. Special thanks to
Bessie Mihailides, Kate Silva and Roula Mantsos for their recent
Sisterhood donation!
1415
I’ve switched practice but I’m still in RI.!
Providence office hours every Tuesday...
16“WOODLAWN” Funeral Home
600 Pontiac Avenue
Cranston, Rhode Island
421-0289
Four Generations of Dignified Service for over 100 years…
We continue to serve our Thomas Gattone & Son families, formerly of Broadway,
Providence at our Woodlawn Family
Michael P. Tasca, President
Susan M. Tasca, Funeral Director
Robert J. Lepore, Assistant to the Director
Personalized assistance with Advanced Planning
www.WoodlawnGattone.com
Coclin Associates
P. O. Box 8485
Cranston, RI 02921
(401-944-7792
Email: coclinassociates@aol.com
We support the 2018 Pledge Program!
• Internal Auditing
• Bank Consulting
1718
February 2018
Divine Services (year round) Orthros (morning prayer) 8:15 am / Liturgy 9:30 am
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sun Jan 28—Triodion Starts / Publican & Pharisee / Ephraim the Syrian / Palladios & Iakovos
- Program with Dr Philip Mamalakis following Liturgy– REGISTRATION REQUESTED
Tue Jan 30- 3 Hierarchs Observance- Services per usual morning hours
Thu Feb 1- Sr Citizens Luncheon– 12 Noon / Bible Study– 7:30PM (Book of Genesis)
Fri Feb 2— Presentation of the Lord / YPAPANTI– Services per usual morning hours
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sun Feb 4—Prodigal Son / Isidore of Pelusium / Confessor Nicholas
- GODPARENT / GODCHILD OBSERVANCE - Luncheon following
- MEMORIAL– Ronald Crabtree—10 yrs
+ Fr Andrew will be out of state, Sunday evening thru Fri Evening (Feb 4-9)
Wed Feb 7- Stewardship Committee—7:30PM
Thu Feb 8— Bible Study– 7:30PM (Book of Genesis)
Sat Feb 10- 1st Sat of Souls & St Haralambos - services at usual morning hours with Memorials
- Apokriatiko 6PM and 9PM portion — SEE DETAILS ON OUR LAST PAGE
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sun Feb 11—Meatfare Sun / Hieromartyr Viassios / Empress Theodora
Visitation of Rev Dr Anton Vrame, Director of Dept of Religious Education
MEMORIAL: Effie Christelis / Teachers workshop following with Dr Vrame
Mon Feb 12- Goya Officers & Advisors– 6:30PM
Tue Feb 13- Revitalization Initiative—7PM
Thu Feb 15- Bible Study– 7:30PM (Book of Genesis) - last class of this series
Fri Feb 16- Metropolis Winter Camp weekend NH (thru Monday afternoon)
Sat Feb 17- 2nd Sat of Souls & Theodore of Tyro—services @ usual morning hours & Memorials
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sun Feb 18—Cheesefare Sun / St Leo, Bishop of Rome / Confessor Agapetos
- Children’s Forgiveness Prayers after classes
Mon Feb 19– CLEAN MONDAY—KATHARA THEFTERA—1ST DAY OF GREAT LENT
4PM– Children’s Compline / 6PM—Traditional Compline
Tue Feb 20— Parish Council—7:30PM
Wed Feb 21- Confessions by appointment / Pre-Sanctified Liturgy– 6PM
Thu Feb 22- Parish Council Orientation Seminar—6:30PM
Fri Feb 23- Confessions by appointment / Salutation Service (1st Stasis) - 6PM
Sat Feb 24- 3rd Sat of Souls / Miracle of the Boiled Wheat of St Theodore
-services @ usual morning hours & Memorials
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sun Feb 25—Sun of 1st Great Lent / Sunday of Orthodoxy / Icon Procession following Liturgy
- St Tarasios, Patriarch CP / Reginos of Skopelos
Mon Feb 26- Parish Council Orientation Seminar—7:30PM
Wed Feb 28- Confessions by appointment / Pre-Sanctified Liturgy– 6PM
Thu March 1- Sr Citizens—12Noon / Marriage Preparation Seminar (Part 1) - 7PM
Fri March 2- Confessions by appointment / Salutation Service (2nd Stasis) - 6PM
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sun March 4– Sun of 2nd Great Lent / St Gregory Palamas / Righteous Gerasimos
- St John Chrysostom Oratorical Luncheon & Festival following
Wed March 7– Pre-Sanctified Liturgy—6PM
Thu March 8- Marriage Preparation Seminar (Part 2) - 7PM
1920
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