Welcome Deacon Christopher and Diakonissa Annabelle Xanthos!
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Volume 24, Issue 2 Holiday 2014
Welcome Deacon Christopher and
Diakonissa Annabelle Xanthos!
R
everend Christopher P. Xanthos
A publication of was born on Long Island, New
Annunciation Greek York on November 12, 1980 to
Orthodox Cathedral Peter and Kiki Xanthos. Growing up
Houston, Texas with four sisters, Deacon Christopher
and his siblings all were baptized and
raised at the Cathedral of Saint Paul in
Hempstead, New York. Serving as an
acolyte, obtaining the rank of Eagle
Scout and learning more about the
Inside this Issue Holy Orthodox Faith were all part of
the experience of growing up at the
Cathedral of Saint Paul.
Welcome Deacon Christopher........ 1
Following graduation from high
Pastoral Guidelines................. 2 school, Deacon Christopher enlisted in
the United States Marine Corps where
Christ is our Peace.................. 5 he graduated from Parris Island Recruit the Youth Director of the Assumption
Training Depot in South Carolina on Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Denver,
Religious Education................. 6 September 24, 1999. Serving in the Colorado for two years. Although the
Marine Corps as a combat engineer, horses and skiing in Colorado were
Deacon Christopher obtained the rank outstanding, sailing the salt water of
Youth Ministry.......................... 7
of Corporal and served two tours in the Atlantic was certainly missed, and
support of Operation Iraqi Freedom Deacon Christopher returned to the
GOYA Honors AGOC Veterans....... 8 specifically in the al-Anbar province east coast and served as the Director
cities of Fallujah and Ramadi. After of Youth and Young Adult Ministries
Philoptochos........................... 9 being honorably discharged from at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox
the Marines, Deacon Christopher Cathedral in Norfolk, Virginia.
Senior Citizens...................... 10 graduated with a bachelor’s degree in
Political Science from State University Deacon Christopher met his future
Choir Notes........................... 11 of New York College in 2005. wife, Annabelle Dragas, while working
at the Cathedral in Norfolk. On October
Greatly influenced by the beautiful 13, 2013 Deacon Christopher and
Annunciation Orthodox School..... 12
example set forth by his parents and Diakonissa Annabelle were married
grandparents who had immigrated at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox
Calendar................................ 13 from Constantinople and Mani, Cathedral in Norfolk, Virginia.
Deacon Christopher felt called to the Diakonissa Annabelle graduated from
Oratorical Festival.................. 15 seminary and the priesthood at an early the College of William and Mary
age. After completing his studies at the with a bachelor’s degree in English
Registry................................. 16 Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of literature in 2010. Her parents and
Theology in Brookline, Massachusetts two brothers live in Virginia Beach.
in 2009, Deacon Christopher served as
(continued on page 5)
Page 2 The Annunciator
Pastoral Guidelines
I am asked almost every day by the stewards of our parish, as well 9. When one or both of the parties are divorced, they must
as others, about the teachings on specific subjects of the Orthodox obtain an ecclesiastical divorce as well, in order to marry again in
Christian Church. While all of what is written that follows is what the Church;
the Church has always taught, it is worth publishing to refresh 10. In the case of an interfaith marriage, the non-Orthodox
our basic knowledge of Orthodoxy. Also with so many new partner must have been baptized in the name of the Father, the
converts to Orthodoxy, some people may not be aware of the Son and the Holy Spirit and in water. A marriage cannot take
basic standards of the Church. I hope the following will edify place in the Orthodox Church between an Orthodox Christian
us and help us to all realize that as Orthodox Christians, we truly and a non-Christian;
need to strive to follow Christ and His Church and not the secular 11. In the case of mixed marriages between an Orthodox
world which runs counter to the Lord Himself. Christian and a non-Orthodox Christian, the marriage must
be celebrated by an Orthodox priest in the Orthodox Church
Instructions for Weddings, Divorces, Baptisms, Funerals, according to the Orthodox tradition;
and Memorials 12. The Sponsor (koumbaros or koumbara) must be an Orthodox
Christian in good standing with the Church. A person who does
Weddings not belong to a parish, or who belongs to a parish which is not
For the sacramental union of a man and a woman to be proper in communion with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, or who,
in the eyes of the Church, the marriage must be conducted in the if married, is not married in the Orthodox Church, cannot be a
Orthodox Church. For such an ecclesiastical marriage to be valid, Sponsor. Non-Orthodox persons may be members of the wedding
the following must be adhered to: party, but my not exchange the rings or crowns.
1. No impediment to marriage may exist;
2. A civil marriage license must be obtained from civil Days When Marriage Is Not Permitted
authorities; Marriages are not permitted on fast days or during fasting seasons
3. An ecclesiastical marriage license must be obtained from the or on the feasts of the Church as indicated: January 5-6; Great
appropriate Metropolis; Lent and Holy Week; August 1-15; August 29 (Beheading of
4. The Sacrament of marriage must be celebrated by an St. John the Baptist); September 14 (Exaltation of the Holy
Orthodox priest according to the liturgical tradition of the Cross); December 13-25; the day before and on major feast days
Orthodox Church and in a canonical Orthodox Church. including Pentecost, Christmas, Pascha, etc., and all Holy Days
5. The priest must belong to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese; of Our Lord. A wedding may be conducted on these days only if
however, marriage performed in another Orthodox jurisdiction absolutely necessary and then only by special permission of the
in communion with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese is also metropolitan Bishop.
recognized as valid by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese;
6. The priest must receive authorization for the marriage from Inter-Christian Marriages
the Metropolitan; It is a fact that the more things a couple hold in common, the
7. Before requesting permission from the Bishop for the more likely it will be that they live their married lives in peace
marriage the priest must verify; and harmony. Shared faith and traditions spare newlyweds
a) that the parties in question are not already married either in and their children many serious problems and strengthen the
this country or elsewhere; bonds between them, however, the Orthodox Church blesses
b) that the party or parties who are members of another parish marriages between Orthodox and non-Orthodox partners under
obtain a certificate of membership from the parish to which they the following conditions:
belong; 1. The non-Orthodox partner must be a Christian who has been
c) that if either or both parties are widowed, he or she present baptized, in water, in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy
the death certificate of the deceased spouse; Spirit, and
d) that if either or both of the parties have been divorced and/or 2. The couple must commit to baptize their children in the
have remarried, that they present the appropriate certificates, i.e.: Orthodox Church and nurture them in accordance with the
civil divorce judgment and Church divorce; Orthodox Christian Faith.
e) that if either or both of the parties have been previously
married in the Orthodox Church, they have obtained ecclesiastical The Orthodox partner should bear in mind that a married Orthodox
as well as civil divorce(s); Christian whose wedding has not been blessed by the Orthodox
8. No more than a total of three marriages will be allowed by Church is no longer in good standing with the Church and
the Church, and this only by extreme mercy; consequently does not have the right to receive the sacraments of
The Annunciator Page 3
the Church, including Holy Communion, or to become a sponsor not marry in the Church until receipt of the ecclesiastical divorce.
at an Orthodox wedding, baptism or chrismation. An Orthodox Members of the Church who have only received a civil divorce
Christian who has been married outside the Church and who and not an ecclesiastical divorce are not permitted to receive
wishes to be reconciled to the Church is encouraged to request Holy Communion or to be sponsors in weddings or godparents
from his or her local Orthodox priest that his or her marriage be in baptismal ceremonies or serve on the Parish Council.
blessed in the Orthodox Church.
A non-Orthodox Christian who marries an Orthodox Christian Baptisms
does not thereby become a member of the Orthodox Church, A person who wishes to sponsor a candidate for Baptism and/or
and is therefore not permitted to receive Holy Communion or Chrismation in the Church must be an Orthodox Christian who
other sacraments of the Church or a Church funeral. These are is a member of an Orthodox parish and who is in good standing
privileges of the baptized and chrismated members of the Church. with the Orthodox Church as determined by the parish priest. A
person who has been excommunicated or anathematized by the
Prohibited Marriages Church or who, if married, has married outside the Orthodox
1st GROUP: Parents with their own children, grandchildren or Church may not become a godparent.
great-grandchildren, or godchildren of the same godparents. Baptisms may not be conducted on the following days unless
2nd GROUP: Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. it is absolutely necessary and permission is obtained from the
3rd GROUP: Uncles and aunts with nieces and nephews. Metropolitan: December 25- January 6; Holy Week; Major Feast
4th GROUP: First cousins with each other. Days.
5th GROUP: Foster parents with foster children or foster children
with the children of foster parents. Funerals
6th GROUP: Godparents with godchildren or godparents with Funeral services are allowed any day of the year, except on
the parents of godchildren. Sundays and Holy Friday, unless it is absolutely necessary and
permission is obtained from the Metropolitan.
Sexuality
The Orthodox Church recognizes marriage as the only moral Memorials
and spiritually appropriate context for sexual relations. Thus, Memorial services may not be held on the following days: from
all other forms of sexual activity such as fornication, adultery, the Saturday of Lazarus through the Sunday of St. Thomas; all the
homosexuality, lesbianism, pornography, all forms of prostitution, Feast days of our Lord; and on Feast Days of the Theotokos. It is
and similar forms of behavior are sins that are inappropriate highly recommended that Orthodox Christians offer memorials
for the Orthodox Christian. Marriage is only conducted and for their loved ones on the several Saturdays of the Souls, which
recognized in the Orthodox Church as taking place between a are set aside throughout the year.
man and a woman. Same-sex marriages are a contradiction in
terms. The Orthodox Church with the Holy Scriptures does not Church Positions on Circumcision, Suicide, Autopsy, and
allow for same-sex marriages. Cremation
Divorces The Sanctity of Human Life
An ecclesiastical divorce may be granted after a civil decree has A major and overarching concern of the Church arises with its
been given, however, the parish priest must exert every effort commitment to the God-given sanctity of human life. Some of
to reconcile the couple and avert a divorce. Should the priest the developments of the biological manipulation of human life,
fail to bring about reconciliation, he will transmit the petition though promising amazing therapeutic achievements, may also
of the party seeking the ecclesiastical divorce to the Spiritual be understood as undermining respect for the integrity of human
(Ecclesiastical) Court of the Metropolis of Denver. The decree of existence. Others may be seen as providing a new means of
the civil divorce must accompany this petition. The petition must healing human illness. Discerning the difference is the challenge
include the names and surnames of the husband and wife, their the Church faces in developing it’s teaching on these newly
addresses, the familial surname of the bride and where, when, appearing issues.
and by which priest the ecclesiastical wedding was conducted.
The petitioner must be in good standing with his or her parish and Human Life
with the Archdiocese. Orthodox Christian members of the Greek The Church’s teaching about human life is based on Holy
Orthodox Church who do not have an ecclesiastical divorce when Tradition, including the Scriptures as a primary resource and
they are separated and have obtained only the civil divorce may the ongoing teaching and interpretation of the Orthodox Faith.
Page 4 The Annunciator
Life is a gift of God in the formation of the created world. All toward her departed children, refuses to deliberately destroy the
life is precious, but human life is uniquely created by God in the body, and has adopted the burial of the dead, in imitation of our
“image and likeness of God.” Human life as such is deserving Lord Jesus Christ Himself as it appears in the Catacombs, and
of deep respect and individual human beings are to be treated in in the graves of the Martyrs and Saints. Cremation, therefore, is
accordance to their inherent human dignity. contrary to the faith and tradition of our Church and is forbidden
Thus, racism, unjust prejudicial treatment of men and women, to Orthodox Christians. The Church instead insists that the body
genocide, forms of sexual exploitation, domestic violence, child be buried so that the natural physical process of decomposition
abuse, rape, theft or destruction of legitimately owned property, may take place. The Church does not grant funerals, either in the
deceptions and deceit, environmental plunder and other such sanctuary or at the funeral home, or at any other place, to persons
manipulative behaviors violate the human dignity of others. who have chosen to be cremated. Additionally, memorial services
Human life as a gift of God should be respected. Some specific with Kolyva (boiled wheat) are not allowed in such instances,
issues are the following. inasmuch as the similarity between the “kernel of wheat” and the
“body” has been intentionally destroyed.
Circumcision
It is known that Jews and Moslems practice circumcision for Abortion
religious reasons. Some doctors deem circumcision necessary for The Church from the very beginning of existence has sought to
reasons of health and cleanliness. The Orthodox Church does not protect “the life in the womb” and has considered abortion as a
prohibit circumcision as long as it is not practiced for religious form of murder in its theology and canons. Orthodox Christians
reasons and is performed by a physician. are admonished not to encourage women to have abortions, nor
assist in the committing of abortion. Those who perform abortions
Suicide and those who have sought it are doing an immoral deed, and are
Since no one is permitted to take the life of another; no one is called to repentance thru the sacrament of confession with the
permitted to take his or her own life, that is, to commit suicide. parish priest or spiritual father.
Suicide is self-murder and consequently a grave sin.
Committing suicide signifies loss of patience, hope, and faith in Donation of Organs
our loving, forgiving, and sustaining God. A person of faith does “No greater love has a person than he lay down his life for a
not lose hope, no matter the difficulties he or she faces. If a person friend.” The Orthodox Church encourages Orthodox Christians
has committed suicide as a result of a belief that: such an action to donate their organs. The organ(s) donated gives life to a fellow
is rationally or ethically defensible, the Orthodox Church denies human being and provides more time on earth for repentance.
that person a Church funeral, because such beliefs and actions Even in death, we can ease the pain of some and grant life to
separate a person from the community of faith. The Church others. Again, it is important to note that organs be donated
shows compassion, however, on those who have taken their own for therapeutic purposes to those requiring healing and not for
life as a result of mental illness or severe emotional stress, when otherwise experimental reasons. Organ transplants should never
a condition or impaired rationality can be verified by a physician. be commercialized nor coerced nor take place without proper
consent, nor place in jeopardy the identity of the donor or recipient,
Autopsy such as the use of animal organs. Nor should the death of the
When the causes of illness have not been diagnosed before a donor be hastened in order to harvest organs for transplantation
person’s death, doctors with the permission of the next of kin, to another person. In all cases, respect for the body of the donor
may perform an autopsy. Often an autopsy leads to enlightening should be maintained.
observations. Because of this the Orthodox Church does not
prohibit autopsies, although a body may not be given strictly for Fasting in the Orthodox Church
medical research or experimentation. Because the human body is Just as there are times for feasting in the Church, there are also
the Temple of the Holy Spirit, the Orthodox Church insists that times for fasting. Jesus Christ Himself often fasted and taught
those who perform the autopsies accord the utmost respect to the that the people fast as well. Fasting is not a set of dietary laws
body. or legalistic requirements. Even those who for reasons of health
cannot fast from certain foods can still participate fully in the
Cremation fast, since they fast from earthly desires, give alms to the poor,
Various Christian groups, instead of burial, prefer the cremation direct their lives to a more serious sense of prayer, and seek to
of the dead, which was customary among many ancient peoples. redirect their will to coalesce to the will of God. Rather, when
The Orthodox Church, however, mindful of the fact that the human accompanied by prayer, fasting is a spiritual aid which disciplines
body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit, and inspired by the affection the body and soul and enables them to strive together to bring
(continued on page 14)
The Annunciator Page 5
Christ is our Peace.
Peace on earth, goodwill towards men—Luke 2:14
For He Himself is our peace—Ephesians 2:14
As we anticipate and look forward to the Nativity of our His Divinity, and His death and Resurrection, He makes
Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we can almost hear the choir us whole/restores us, and is victorious over death. All of
of angels singing with joy and exaltation: “Glory to God this is linked beautifully to Baptism by St. Paul’s following
in the highest, peace on earth and good will towards men,” verses in Galatians:
(Luke 2: 13, 14) announcing the birth of the Messiah, “For as many of you as were baptized in Christ have been
God incarnate! God, in His great mercy and love for us clothed with Christ.
condescended to take on flesh, become like us for our There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, neither
salvation, bringing “peace and good will towards men.” male nor female; for you
are all one in Christ Jesus.”—Galatians 3:27-28
St. Paul tells us that “He Himself is our peace who has
made both one…that He might reconcile them both to God Because of all of this we have become adopted sons and
in one body through the cross, thereby putting death to the daughters by Jesus Christ according to the will of God
enmity.” (Ephesians 2:14, 16) What does he mean, what the Father (Eph 1:3). We are now, once again His children
is peace? We hear this term liturgically often: eirini pasi, in a loving relationship with Him, joined to Christ and
peace be onto all. Is peace merely the absence of war or becoming part of His body, the Church. Jesus “comes
conflict? It is much more than that. Peace has the rich and to bring peace and good will toward men, for He is the
deep connotation of the Hebrew word shalom: wholeness, incarnate love of God, reconciling humanity to God and
well-being, reconciliation and harmony with God and people to each other.”
one another, fullness of blessing. In these verses, St Paul (Orthodox Study Bible, footnote to Luke 2:14)
uses the enmity/hostility and the alienation of the Gentiles
from the Jews to explain how Jesus, through the Cross, Let us receive our Lord on His Nativity, then, with love,
has reconciled humanity with each other and humanity joy, and gratitude, giving Him praises and Glory! Amen
with God by “putting death to the enmity.” (Eph 2:15)
Through the Incarnation, where our humanity is joined to + Fr. Demetri
(Welcome Deacon Christopher and Diakonissa Annabelle Xanthos!) (continued from page 1)
Deacon Christopher was ordained on November 1, 2014 to poetry, archery, riding horses. They look forward to making
the Diaconate by His Grace Bishop Andonios of Phasiane, Texas their new home and meeting the members of the
Chancellor of the Archdiocese of America. Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Houston.
Deacon Christopher and Diakonissa Annabelle enjoy Please welcome them both to our Cathedral Parish and may
spending time with family, travelling the many historical our Lord grant Deacon Christopher good strength as he
sites throughout Virginia, hiking, skiing, sailing, reading begins his ministry in the vineyard of our Lord Jesus Christ!Page 6 The Annunciator
Religious Education
The Good Old Days.
Irene Cassis, Director Religious Education
The Good Old Days. When you start thinking about little time left to devote to their religious upbringing. It is
them, you are probably no longer young and something no wonder that by the time Sunday morning comes, we’re
has prodded you into remembering. The world did not all exhausted.
seem as complicated when I was young. Or was it?
My family emigrated from Greece to Houston, Texas, When my family came to this country, our church was
in 1946. From the beginning, we did everything as a a humble wooden structure where all 60 gathered as
family. If one could not be part of the group, the rest one family to fellowship with one another and worship.
of the family stayed home. Our family was not run as Because of our competing obligations some of us have lost
a democracy. Mother and Dad made the rules, and my our focus. Yes, it is important that we continue to strive
brothers and sisters and I followed them. We had no input for the education of our youth; yes it is important that
or say-so in their decision-making. It did not bother them we involve them in extracurricular activities, including
in the least if we were happy or sad in how they chose to sports. But as parents we have a responsibility to balance
lead their household. From the time we arrived from the the secular with the spiritual.
old country, we had a routine. On Sundays we went to
Church as a family; every evening we had dinner together A recent study (The Hartford Institute of Religious
as a family; we went to Greek School two days a week Research) reported that more than 80% of Americans are
for hours; we helped with all the household chores and choosing to do something else on weekends besides going
knew we had to be on our best behavior when the parish to Church. Archbishop Demetrios has spoken often about
council president, Mr. George Kelley, came to check on how we must commit to keeping our young people in the
us on a weekly basis. My mother managed to get me into church. We are fearful that our children will not remain in
a Catholic School and in return for tuition, she worked in the church. We do have cause for concern. The signs are
the school’s cafeteria. All this was done with absolutely pretty obvious. On any given Sunday morning in church
no input from me or my siblings. many teens are missing.
Some sixty years have passed and I am now a grandmother. Church attendance and religious education may not be
Many changes that have occurred since my youth, some a priority within the family structure. Parents are the
good and some questionable regarding the wellbeing of main religious educators for their children, and attending
the family and, especially, the children. Families rarely Church on Sundays offers the best religious education
enjoy meals together. Many children are overbooked program.
and overwhelmed with activities that should make them
happy, but, instead, they look exhausted. There is so much I may have idealized the “good old days”, but the fact
stress put on them as homework is piled on to make sure remains that we need God in our lives. When we attend
they will keep their grades up. Parents are also getting the Divine Liturgy and receive Christ Himself in Holy
more involved in the social aspect of society. There is Communion, we have taken that first step toward Christ.The Annunciator Page 7
YOUTH MINISTRY
Our Youth Programs cannot happen without the commitment of our parents
have been very active and youth. Each program is created for the enrichment
since the beginning of and enlightenment of each child. Our programs help
the new ecclesiastical young children and teens grow closer to God, understand
year. HOPE and JOY their faith and foster life long friendships. Group
kicked off with a fun activities, retreats and camps are centered on engaging
meet and greet that each other through fun, faith and fellowship. When we
included playtime in offer these opportunities, please consider joining us.
the gym and plenty of
pizza. For Christmas, HOPE and JOY made Christmas Cards In September our Youth Ministry Programs were blessed
and ornaments. On December 6, Santa will be here for the to have the Archdiocese’s Youth and Young Adults
annual Breakfast with Santa. In January, HOPE and JOY will director Fr. Jason Roll and Be the Bee producer Steven
prepare care kits for the homeless. More activities to come! Christoforou host a Sunday Youth Retreat.
In September, GOYA began the year with a swim party meet “Be a herald of God’s goodness, for God rules over you,
and greet and the GOYANS helped serve food at our annual unworthy though you are; for although your debt to Him
Parish Glendi. In October, we went bowling at Bowlmor. In is so great, yet He is not seen exacting payment from
November, we attended the annual GOYA Southern Region you, and from the small works you do, He bestows great
Fall Retreat. In December, the GOYANS will give their time rewards upon you.” ~ St. Isaac the Syrian
and talent at the Breakfast with Santa. In the spirit of Christmas
the GOYANS will spread holiday cheer by singing Christmas
Carols and concluding with a Christmas party. Gaby Gadah
Our Youth Ministry Programs have the capacity to grow but this Pastoral Assistant/Youth Director
Upcoming Youth Ministry Activities
April 4-6 GOYA Spring Retreat (Lenten)
January 16 – 19 GOYA Basketball Tournament Dallas, TX
January 24 HOPE/JOY make care kits for the homeless
February 1 GOYA Super Bow Party; 5-8 PM Martel Hall
February 8 HOPE/JOY Valentines Day Project
February 15 GOYA to make care kits for the homeless
February 22 GOYA Forgiveness Sunday Retreat after Vespers
March 3-15 GOYA Spring Lenten Retreat at Sky Ranch
June 7-13 Camp Emmanuel Juniors Session
14-20 Camp Emmanuel Seniors Session
Ionian Village Session One June 22 – July 11
Ionian Village Session Two July 19 – August 7
Senior GOYA (Greek Orthodox Youth of America): High School
Grades 9-12
Junior GOYA (Greek Orthodox Youth of America): Middle School
Grades 6-8
JOY (Junior Orthodox Youth): Grades 4-5
HOPE (Holy Orthodox Primary Education): Grades K-3
For more information about our Youth Ministries please contact Pastoral Assistant Gaby Gadah at gabygadah@agoc.org.Page 8 The Annunciator
GOYA Honors AGOC Veterans
5th Annual Veterans Dinner
On November 9, 2014 the AGOC GOYA honored the Veterans of our Annunciation Cathedral Parish at a
dinner in the Martel Hall. The Veterans and GOYANS are picture above, along with a guest speaker form
the Wounded Warrior Program.
“Of all the goods possessed by “It is no good putting gold chalices
human beings, the one which on the Lord’s table unless you give
appears to be the greatest and most food and drink to the poor from
reliable is wisdom and prudence.” your own tables.”
St. Basil the Great St. John ChrysostomThe Annunciator Page 9
Philoptochos…….Following the Example
Of Saints Cosmas and Damian
Marie Halvatzis, President
In the tenth chapter of Matthew we are told Christ Here at Annunciation Cathedral our Philoptochos
gave instructions to his twelve disciples to preach chapter is blessed to have a caring community who
and heal. The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos supports the mission of Philoptochos. When you
Society chose as its patron saints Cosmas and Damian purchase items from the bake sale, attend the glendi,
the Unmercenaries, physician brothers whose unpaid make a stewardship pledge or make a donation, you
medical work influenced many people to become are following the example of our patron saints by
Christians. Sometimes the best “preaching” needs ministering to those in need and setting an example
no words. Following that example, Philoptochos of how Christians are to treat other people.
Past President Aphrodite Skeadas summed up the
work of the Society by saying, “our goal is to honor One of the proudest accomplishments of our national
the relationship with God by using our gifts, our organization was the purchase of property now
abilities, our compassion, our empathy, our faith and known as St. Basil’s Academy where for seven
our love to make a better world for our family, our decades children who had no suitable home have
Greek Orthodox community and our contemporary found one. Our annual VASILOPITA celebration and
society.” auction, the most successful in the country, helps
support St. Basil’s. We look forward to another very
The icon of Sts. Cosmas and Damian reminds us successful auction on JANUARY 11, 2015, for this
of the two ways we can help our fellow man. In worthy institution of our Archdiocese.
the icon the saints are shown extending a spoon of
medicine which provides physical help while the Philoptochos will have the privilege of being a major
handle of the spoon is in the shape of a cross as a contributor to the building of St. Nicholas Shrine
reminder for us to pray for others since all real help at Ground Zero which will be a consecrated Greek
comes from God. Using this example, the members Orthodox Church as well as a place for all people
of Philoptochos begin every meeting by praying for to pray and remember the three thousand innocent
those parishioners, family members, and friends we people killed in the attacks on September 11, 2001.
have been asked to pray for and we are encouraged Our chapter members will receive a special mailing
to make praying for these people part of our daily, in January explaining how each of us can help. If
personal prayers. While praying for each other is you aren’t a Philoptochos member and want to help,
the most important thing a Christian can do for his please let Marie Halvatzis know.
fellow man, we are called upon to provide physical,
earthly, help, too. When we visit our homebound YOUR membership in Philoptochos matters! Our
“Special Friends,” provide assistance to patients 2015 membership kickoff will be later in January…
here for medical treatment, make sandwiches for the watch the church bulletin and your e-mail for details.
homeless, collect clothing for the less fortunate, and By joining together to use the gifts God has given us,
provide funds for more than 50 ministries, charities, we can accomplish many things to help others and,
and programs, we are “praying with our hands and thereby, show the world the light of God’s love.
feet.”Page 10 The Annunciator
SENIOR CITIZENS
Kiki Pantazis & Paula Phocas
Hi everyone.
I hope all of you are doing well and getting ready for the Holidays. As always time goes by sooo quickly and here
we are, it is Christmas again!!! Nevertheless it is an exciting and very busy time of the year.
As we are getting ready for the Holidays I would like to take a moment and remember all of our Seniors who are
no longer with us. May their memory be eternal. We will miss them and they always will be in our hearts .
Also I would like to thank all our sponsors who are so good and generous to us.
A big THANK YOU to all of you.
On December 16 our Christmas luncheon was sponsored by Elani Hantel and her husband Mike, and the children
from AOS School came over and sang Christmas Carols.
Mark your calendar for the upcoming meetings and events:
January 20 Luncheon sponsored by the Vlahakos and Demeris families.
Also in January we are trying to arrange for some basic computer classes for our Seniors who are interested. As
soon as we have a date I will let you know.
February 3 Luncheon sponsored by the Pappas family.
February 17 Luncheon sponsored by Jim and Angela Boockholdt.
On behalf of Paula, myself and all the people who work to make this program so successful I would like to wish
each and every one of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.
GUIDELINES:
Everyone who is 55 and older and is a member of the Annunciation Cathedral is welcome to join us in the senior’s
program and enjoy the fun and the fellowship our program provides.
TO ATTEND OUR OUTINGS you have to be a regular member of the Sr. Citizens, with the exception of out-of-
town visitors who are VERY welcome at any time.
For more information call:
KIKI PANTAZIS 713-340-1113 OR
PAULA PHOCAS 713-661-5017The Annunciator Page 11
CHOIR NOTES
The National Forum of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians
38th Annual Meeting was held in Philadelphia, PA July 5 –
10, 2014 in conjunction with the Clergy-Laity Congress. The
Delegates representing the Denver Metropolis Federation of
Greek Orthodox Church Musicians were Pamela Cramer,
choir director from Annunciation Cathedral in Houston and
Bill and Rena Poletes from St. John the Baptist church in
Euless, TX. All nine metropolises were represented which
made for productive meetings.
The NF and local Philadelphia choir members participated
in singing the Hierarchal Liturgy at St. George Cathedral, under the direction of Christopher Kypros, choir director
from Baltimore, Maryland and organist Hope Demitry from New Jersey
Sunday afternoon, The National Forum choir was invited to sing at the Philoptochos Convention opening
ceremonies. That evening the NF attendees gave a short concert directed by Christopher Kypros which included
his arrangement of Σε υμνούμεν. At The Church Music Reception, Christopher Kypros was awarded the St.
Romanos Melodist Medallion. The Medallion is presented to those church musicians who have made exemplary
national contributions to church music in the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. All Hierarchs were in
attendance.
Monday morning, The NF choir sang an arrangement of songs at the Congress Opening.
That afternoon meetings officially opened with a Prayer by Fr. Nicholas Bacalis, Spiritual Advisor. Maria Keritsis,
Chairman, offered welcome introductions and read her Annual Report.
We were privileged to have many guests and one in particular, Fr. Chrysostomos Gilbert who spoke on how
passionate he is to the NF for all that was offered to him in his youth, growing up in Salt Lake City. His love
for church music came from singing in the choir and many of our church musicians played a role in his spiritual
development. Dr. Angelo Lampousis, Research Associate at Rutgers University and Chanter Liaison in The
Direct Archdiocesan District, spoke about roles as chanters and choir.
Dr. James Skedros, Dean and Cantonis Professor of Byzantine Studies and Professor of Early Christianity,
described the seminary study of Byzantine chant. Maria introduced two guests that spoke about Leadership 100
Grants and gratefully acknowledged their generous support to the National Forum. The money from these grants
is used to finance the federations’ Music Institutes.
Annunciation Cathedral’s choir director, Pamela Cramer, was a guest voice clinician for the Mideastern Federation
of Church Musicians for their annual conference held in Columbus, Ohio in July. This is the second time she
has been asked to participate in their sessions teaching the choirs to sing in English, learning different settings
of Liturgical music, and working with the maturing voice. Mrs. Cramer will be the guest conductor for their
conference next year to be at Sts. Constantine and Helen in Westland, MI, a suburb of Detroit.Page 12 The Annunciator
Κaλa Χριστούγεννa! Merry Christmas from all of us at joy for others. They are preparing remembrances for
Annunciation Orthodox School! The season is indeed our Special Friends from AGOC, collecting toys for the
bright as we await the birth of our Lord and Savior Toys for Joy drive benefitting Kinder Clinic, filling the
Jesus Christ! wish lists of Candlelighter families who have children
with childhood cancer, and much more. And they do
What a blessing to be in a Christian Orthodox school not forget the furry creatures! Collections for the SPCA
where Jesus is a part of our lives every day. What a are also delivered!
blessing it is to openly and boldly announce, “Joy to the
world, the Lord has come”! Students will be re-enacting As we reflect this Christmas season on our most
the true Christmas Story and singing hymns and songs precious Gift, the Christ Child, the faculty, staff and
in their classrooms in both Greek and in English, in the administration also reflect on what an awesome privilege
Christmas programs staged in our beloved Cathedral, and responsibility we, as educators, share with parents
and in various venues throughout the city. Our beautiful to “Train up a child the way he should go, and when
orchestra of Orff instruments (percussion instruments) he is old he will not depart from it.” [Proverbs 22:6].
will “ring-in” in the season with several performances Graduates of AOS return to their School again and
alongside our Lower and Middle School Choruses, again. This is a testament that a faith-filled education
including a special performance for our own Senior is more than just attending Chapel once a week. It is a
Citizens! What a privilege to display the manger way of life at Annunciation Orthodox School…it is the
scene and Christmas trees filled with student-created Orthodox way!
ornaments!
Wishing our parish families a very joyful Christmas
Our students are also busy focusing not only on their and blessed New Year!
own Christmas lists, but more importantly on creating
“The Lord wants first that you be Religion that is pure and undefiled
filled with the blessing of peace, before God and the Father is this:
and then communicate it to those to visit orphans and widows in
who have need of it.” their affliction, and to keep oneself
unstained from the world.
St. Gregory of Nyssa James 1:27The Annunciator Page 13
CATHEDRAL CALENDAR
December 21, 2014 – January 31, 2015
Sunday, December 21 – Sunday before Nativity Tuesday, January 13
Orthros 7:45 am/Divine Liturgies 9:00 & 11:00 am/SCS 1:00 pm – Bible Study, Room 219
GOYA Basketball Practice 6:30 pm – Bible Study, Room 219
GOYA Christmas Caroling 5:30 pm (Please note change in day and change in evening
session time of Bible Studies.)
Wednesday, December 24 –Eve of the Nativity of Christ
Orthros 6:00 pm / Divine Liturgy 7:00 pm Thursday, January 15
Wassail and Cookies following Divine Liturgy, Introduction to Orthodoxy Class 6:30 pm, Room 136
Martel Hall, sponsored by Daughters of Penelope Marathon Pastitsio Dinner 7:00 pm, Martel Hall
Thursday, December 25 – HOLY NATIVITY Friday, January 16
Nativity of Jesus Christ Greek School 3:30 & 5:00 pm
Orthros 8:30 am / Divine Liturgy 9:30 am
Saturday, January 17
Friday, December 26 - Cathedral Office Closed GOYA Basketball Tournament in Dallas
th
Sunday, December 28 – Sunday after Nativity Sunday, January 18 – 12 Sunday of Luke
ONE DIVINE LITURGY ONE DIVINE LITURGY
Orthros 7:45 am / Divine Liturgy 9:00 am Orthros 7:45 am / Divine Liturgy 9:00 am
GOYA Basketball Practice GOYA Basketball Tournament in Dallas
Monday, January 19
Wednesday, December 31
Martin Luther King Day – Cathedral Office Closed
New Year’s Eve Party 8:00 pm, Martel Hall
Tuesday, January 20
Thursday, January 1, 2015 – New Year’s Day Sr. Citizens Meeting & Lunch 10:15 am, Martel Hall
Saint Basil / Circumcision of Our Lord 1:00 pm Bible Study, Room 219
Orthros 8:30 am / Divine Liturgy 9:30 am 6:30 pm Bible Study, Room 219
Friday, January 2 - Cathedral Office Closed Thursday, January 22
Introduction to Orthodox Class 6:30 pm, Room 136
Sunday, January 4 – Sunday before Theophany
Orthros 7:45 am / Divine Liturgies 9:00 & 11:00 am Friday, January 23
GOYA Basketball Practice Greek School 3:30 & 5:00 pm
Monday, January 5 – Eve of Theophany (strict fast) Saturday, January 24
Orthros 8:30 am/Divine Liturgy and Service of the HOPE & JOY Event 3:00 pm, Trophy Room
Lesser Blessing of Waters 9:30 am th
Sunday, January 25 – 15 Sunday of Luke
Tuesday, January 6 – HOLY THEOPHANY Orthros 7:45 am/Divine Liturgies 9:00 &11:00 am/SCS
The Holy Theophany of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Basketball Awards Banquet 6:00 pm, Martel Hall
Orthros 8:30 am/Divine Liturgy and Service of the
Great Blessing of Waters 9:30 am Tuesday, January 27
1:00 pm Bible Study, Room 219
Wednesday, January 7 – Synaxis of John the Baptist 6:30 pm Bible Study, Room 219
Orthros 8:30 am / Divine Liturgy 9:30 am
Thursday, January 29
Friday, January 9 Introduction to Orthodoxy Class 6:30 pm, Room 136
Greek School 3:30 & 5:00 pm
Greek School Vasilopita 7:10 pm, Trophy Room Friday, January 30 – Synaxis of The Three Hierarchs
Orthros 8:30 am / Divine Liturgy 9:30 am
Sunday, January 11 – Sunday after Theophany Greek School 3:30 & 5:00 pm
Orthros 7:45 am/Divine Liturgies 9:00 & 11:00 am/SCS
Philoptochos Vasilopita Celebration after each Divine Saturday, January 31
Liturgy, Martel Hall Greek School Three Hierarchs Dinner 6:30 pm,
GOYA Basketball Practice Martel HallPage 14 The Annunciator
(Pastoral Guidelines) (continued from page 4)
the whole person closer to God, especially during the preparation - We fast during the required days of fasting and not eating
periods for the great feast days of the Church anything the morning of the Liturgy. The first gift to be consumed
by mouth that morning should be the Body and Blood of our
The following are fast days and seasons: Lord Jesus Christ.
1. All Wednesdays and Fridays, except those noted below. - The morning of the Liturgy must be one of silence, prayer and
2. The day before Epiphany: January 5. meditation. Some suggestions are:
3. Cheesefare Week, which is the last week before Great Lent, i. No television, newspaper, radio, or internet. Read Holy
when meat is prohibited, although dairy products may be eaten Scripture or the life of a saint or recite the Jesus Prayer, ‘Lord
even on Wednesday and Friday. Jesus Christ, Son of God have mercy upon me a sinner.”
4. Great Lent. ii. Important not to be miserable about attending Church but
5. Holy Week. peaceful and joyous. The image you give your family and to each
6. Holy Apostles Lent: from the Monday after All-Saints Day other must be one of faith in worship.
until June 28, inclusive. iii. Offer a time of repentance/forgiveness within the family and
7. Dormition of the Mother of God Lent: August 1-14. seek each other’s forgiveness. (Saturday evening or Sunday
8. Beheading of St. John the Baptist: August 29. morning)
9. Exaltation of the Holy Cross: September 14. iv. The Divine Liturgy morning should be different from other
10. Christmas Lent: November 15 to December 24. mornings.
v. Offer incense in your home as an act of prayer and adoration
The following are fast days on which fish is permitted: to God.
1. Annunciation Day: March 25. (If Annunciation Day falls vi. Discuss with your family the Gospel reading of the day. Do
during Great Lent; otherwise the day is completely fast-free.) not just “go to Church” and leave it up to the parish priest for
2. Palm Sunday. spiritual instruction. Many young people are pushed away from
3. Transfiguration: August 6. their spiritual life because parents and relatives do not address
4. The Feast of the Entry into the Temple of the Mother of God. it with them. Ask them, “How is your spiritual life?” It’s that
November 21 simple.
The following days are completely fast-free Please understand that the Christian Orthodox Church does not
1. The first week of the Triodion, including Wednesday and practice inter-communion with other Christian denominations.
Friday. Though we may share a common belief in the Holy Trinity, our
2. Easter Week (Diakainisimos or Bright Week). churches are not yet one in faith and practice. We believe that Holy
3. The week following Pentecost. Communion is not the means to Christian unity but it is in fact
4. December 25 – January 4. the final expression of that unity. We fervently pray for this unity
as noted in every divine service of the Orthodox Church. Please
RECEIVING HOLY COMMUNION do not approach for Holy Communion in any other church other
Preparing to Receive Holy Communion is the most important than a canonical Orthodox Christian Church. This also includes
process we, as Orthodox Christians, can do in order to grow in not receiving Holy Communion in the Roman Catholic Church.
grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. The following Feel free to contact Fr. Michael if you have any questions.
lists are suggestions for preparing Holy Communion.
- Seek the blessing of Father Michael/spiritual father through the We would like to remind all Orthodox Christians to be spiritually
sacrament of Holy Confession regularly. prepared and in proper canonical standing with the Church in
- Attend the Divine Liturgy on time and most definitely before order to partake of the Holy Eucharist. (Holy Communion)
the reading of the Holy Gospel. If there is a legitimate reason for
being late then Holy Communion is to be received but if one is I hope these basic standards help to address some of the common
consistently late because of “the length of the service” then they questions that are asked. These may seem to some as a long list of
are receiving Holy Communion in vain and in judgment. do’s and don’ts, but these guidelines are the framework in which
- Offer the prayers of preparation the night before and the morning we can experience a full liturgical life within the Church. Have a
of the Liturgy. Ask Father Michael for these specific prayers. blessed Christmas and New Year!
- Seek the forgiveness of those you have offended and forgive
those who offended you. +Father MichaelThe Annunciator Page 15
2015 Parish St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival
February 1, 2015 & February 8, 2015
11:00 am, Small Martel Hall
Annunciation GO Cathedral
Come & Hear the
Middle School (Feb 1) & High School(Feb 8) Students
Share their faith experience!
2015 St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival Topics
Junior Division (Grades 7---9) (February 1, 2015)
1. The theme of the 2014 Clergy-Laity Congress was “The Orthodox Christian family: A dwelling of
Christ and a witness of His Gospel.” Discuss how today Orthodox Christian families can strive to live
according to this ideal.
2. St. Paul writes, “An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules” (2 Timothy
2:5). Discuss the virtue of honesty in a time when cheating in school, sports, and other activity is
reported more and more.
3. Discuss the Orthodox Christian practice of fasting from certain foods and the spiritual discipline it
teaches, especially in light of the Lord’s directive in Matthew 6:16–18.
4. Malala Yousafzai is an inspirational example of fighting fearlessly for a noble cause in spite of
threats against her life. Discuss a young saint or person from the Bible who illustrates such courage.
5. Several leaders in the political and religious arena have been described as people with a prophetic
gift. What really is a prophet? Discuss their actions in light of the Old Testament prophets and in
comparison to other contemporary examples.
Senior Division (Grades 10---12) (February 8, 2015)
1. The Lord said, “I was in prison and you came to me” (Matthew 25:36). What does this teach us
about our attitudes toward those in jails and imprisoned?
2. Psalm 50 (51) begins, “Have mercy on me, O Lord…” It is considered the psalm of repentance.
Discuss how praying this psalm might affect our understanding of repentance, confession, and
forgiveness.
3. Women apostles, martyrs, and saints have spread the Gospel and advanced the Church from the
beginning of Christianity. Discuss the significance of their roles and examples for all Christians today.
4. The St. Nicholas Church at Ground Zero, which was destroyed on September 11, 2001, is soon to
be rebuilt. Discuss the ways in which this tiny church building will now become a symbol of the
universal themes of victory over evil; healing and hope; and being a beacon of Orthodox Christianity.
5. Using the parable of the poor widow's offering to the Temple (Luke 21:1–4), discuss the Orthodox
Christian attitude of offering to the Church’s ministries.Page 16 The Annunciator
REGISTRY
March 16 - December 1, 2014
Godparents: Tanya and Victor Pappas
WEDDINGS Christian (Christos)
Parents: Chrisoula and Nickolaos Hasouris Katerina Niki (Ekaterina)
Julia Elizabeth Alaniz and Godparents: Elenie Kalogeropoulos and
Pavlos Karnezis Parents: Helen and Frank Vasos
Stefanos Kastritsis Godparent: Anna Saulsberry
Sponsor: Stellios Karnezis
Gus Socrates (Constantinos) Skylar (Catherine)
Anastasia Flora Batsios and Parents: Nadia and John Z. Hasouris
Gus George Fress Parents: Samantha and Chad Zapalac
Godparent: Nikolaos Moshou Godparent: Tasos Kritikakis
Sponsor: Ashley M. Batsios
Nienna Lucia
Athena Salome Castillo and Parents: Suzanne and Douglas Linder Cade (Daniel)
Arther Jin Henrickson Godparent: Marie Halvatzis Parents: Samantha and Chad Zapalac
Sponsor: Jeannie Tadych Godparent: Tasos Kritikakis
John David Alexander Bhavini (Sophia) Acharya
Lan-Huong Chu Duncan and Parents: Mary-Olga and John Lovett, Jr.
Andrew Scott Ballard Godparents: Laura and Dimitrios Fetokakis Godparent: Violet Aziz Hanna
Sponsor: Gaby Gadah
Tyler (Panteleimon) Battenfield
Bianca Aurora Garcia and Paraskevi Godparents: Rhonda and Michael Cokinos
Artemios Stylianos Arapoglou Parents: Androula and Panayiotis Melas
Sponsor: Diamadis Diamantopoulos Godparent: Efrosini Tsouko Lillian Ivanna Dolapchiev
Godparent: Krasimir Yakov
Maria C. Megas and Gracie Eleni
Jeffrey Steven Pate Parents: Nikoletta and Christopher Miller Crystal (Sophia) Martin
Sponsor: George Megas Godparents: Cindy and Damon Diamantaras Godparent: Maria Ringer
Erin Renee (Irene) Stashi
Kelsey Anne Rhude and Wyatt James (Demitri) Godparent: Nicholas Patniyot
Alexander Philip Miron Parents: Eleni and Adam Minnick
Sponsor: Laura L. Miron Godparents: Stephanie and Raphael Alvarez
CHRISMATIONS
Sophia Dora Sgarbi and Eirini Zaxaro Mark Darren Hurley, Sr.
William Frank Psillas Parents: Carrie and Charalabos Papageorgiou Sponsor: Joni Zavitsanos
Sponsor: Nicholas Psillas Godparent: Aristidis John Pontikas
Donna Molho
Maria E. Stathopoulos and Gabriel Nicholas Sponsor: Sophia Khan
Kenneth Neil Turner Parents: Christina and Petros Papazis Jeffrey Steven Pate
Sponsor: Veniece R. Thompson Godparents: Elaine and Elfetherios Apostolidis Sponsor: Antonia Megas
Crystal Lauren (Martin) Miridis and Demitri Markos Samantha (Mary) Zapalac
Chris Miridis Parents: Amanda and Markos Pappas Sponsor: Cecile Kritikakis
Sponsor: Maria S. Ringer Godparent: John Alexander Pekmezaris
Chad (Michael) Zapalac
Dianne Elizabeth (Black) Wells and Ioanna Veronica Sponsor: Tasos Kritikakis
Timothy Lane Wells Parents: Veronica and Nikolaos Salmatanis FUNERALS
Sponsor: Diamantis J. Cassis Godparents: Anastasia Roumelioti and
Georgios Pengos Arthur Barbalias
BAPTISMS Dr. Elizabeth Batmanis
Anastacia Diane Thomie E. Candis
Owen Michael Parents: Ann-Marie and Nicholas Servos Gregory Pete Catsinas
Parents: Emily and Nicholas Catechis Godparents: Nicole and George Postolos Philip Economides
Godparent: Stephen Anastasios Catechis Tom Ferlias
Louis Nicholas (Elias) John Arthur Fotinos
Parents: Ann-Marie and Nicholas Servos Marie Jacobs Harris
Katina Godparents: Nicole and George Postolos
Parents: Adonia and Kevin Cokinos Spyros George “Leo” Kalantzakis
Godparents: Elise and Demetri Dale Anabelle Kate (Katherine) Suzanne (Zenaida) Linder
Parents: Eleni and Shelby Smith Jack Kimon Lymberry
Victoria Christina Godparents: Brittany Nicole Chilivetis and Lewis J. Pappas
Parents: Catherine and Raphael DAmico Courtney Marie Chilivetis Tommy Papasideris
Godparent: Christina Theile Penelope (Penny) Solomos
Lillian Nicole Charles Stamos
Isabel Parents: Eleni and Shelby Smith Leon Vasiliadis
Parents: Jennifer and John Gus Demeris Godparent: Nicole Hilburn Maldonado
Godparent: James Lawrence Hodges Vasiliki Evelyn
Parents: Evelyn Pappas and Nickolas Spiliotis ANNUNCIATION
Owen Elias Godparent: Colette Nicolaou Collins GREEK ORTHODOX
Parents: Evyenia and Steven Elston
Godparent: Nia Botti CATHEDRAL
Chloe Anastasia 3511 YOAKUM BOULEVARD
Parents: Matil and Dennis Vallianos HOUSTON, TEXAS 77006‑4388You can also read
