\\\\\ \ Issue 1211 October 2012 Let my prayer be set forth as incense before You and the lifting up of my hands as an evening sacrifice! PARISH MINISTRIES Parish Council President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Asst. Treasurer Paula Dart Yannoula Ballassi John Fakis Dean Antipas JoAnn Ballassi Stephen Bellos Dino Dart Shawn Hathaway Dean Macris Penny Maistros Tim Matsas Karen Stearns Demetrius Tasoulas Church Office Jeanne Fakis Sunday School Elsa Galetsa—Director Choir John Fakis - Director Dora Georgeady - Asst. Director Cantor George Papadopoulos Alexander Filip Altar Boys Philoptochos Jeanne Fakis - President Bible Study Fr. Dean Greek School Dora Georgeady - Teacher Hellenic Dancers Nancy Bellos Sophia Karabelas Senior Citizens St. Sophia Hellenic Orthodox Church 200 Hempstead St., New London, CT 06320 (860) 442-2377 FAX (860) 442-1020 Fr. Dean: (860) 389-5464 Email: [email protected] Web Page: saintsophianl.org Facebook: Saint Sophia Church Fr. Dean A. Panagos—Pastor Weekly Email Please call the office to be placed on the parish weekly email list for the most up-to-date parish news. Also, please let us know if you’d like to receive the monthly bulletin via email instead of having it mailed to your home. Sponsors of this issue of the “Orthodox Life” Myrtle K. Johnston, in loving memory of her beloved brothers, George and Spiro. In loving memory of our wonderful, loving and caring Goddaughter, Yvonne Zingus Costa. May your memory be eternal. We miss you so much. Bill and Nancy Bellos Chris S. Zingus, George S. Zingus and family, in loving memory of their beloved mother and grandmother Katherine Zingus, on the 11th anniversary of her repose. Myrtle Johnston—President Youth G.O.Y.A. Bookstore Penny Maistros Web Page Julianne Swanson Order of AHEPA Demetrius E. Tasoulas - President Foundation Fund (Endowment) James Colonis Paedeia Society Stephan Nousiopoulos - President BULLETIN SPONSORSHIP FORM Yes, I would like to sponsor an issue of the Orthodox Life Name _________________________________________ In memory of ___________________________________ In honor of Other (circle) __________________________________ Donation: $50 Please make checks payable to: St. Sophia Church Thank you! October Liturgical Life CHRIST the Teacher OCTOBER CHURCH SERVICES Sunday Schedule Matins 9:00 am - Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Weekday/Saturday Services Matins/Divine Liturgy - 8:30 am (C) Evangelismos Chapel The gospels indicate that while on this earth, Christ went around to villages and towns, teaching the multitude. Even as early as age twelve, He went to the synagogue and spoke as one having great wisdom (Luke 2:47). Scripture also shows that several people called him “Teacher”, “Rabbi” or “Master”, including Martha (John 11:28), Nicodemus (John 3:2), the sc ribes and the Pharisees (john 8:34), Mary Magdeline (John 20:16), Bartimaeus the blind man (Mark 10:51), Judas Iscariot (Matthew 26:25, 49) and Nathanael (John 1:49). He taught plainly and with simple language, especially through the use of parables, which were easy to understand, Christ’s Sermon on the Mount recorded in Matthew 5-7 shows Him “as one who had authority” (Matthew 7:29) and as a teacher with large numbers of disciples. Christ’s own life shows us what is good and required of us and serves as an example of what we should strive towards in our everyday lives. Sunday, 10/7: Martyrs Sergios and Bacchus 40 day memorial service for Yvonne Costa Sunday, 10/14: Holy Fathers of 7th Ecum. Council Thursday, 10/18: St. Luke the Evangelist (C) Sunday, 10/21: Righteous Hilarion the Great Solsbury Baptism 1:00 pm Friday, 10/26: Great Martyr Demetrios (C) Saturday, 10/27: Vokolos Baptism 11:00 am Sunday, 10/28: Holy Protection of the Theotokos Mitchell Baptism 1:00 pm Powerful quote by St. John Chrysostom “Let everything take second place to our care of our children, our bringing them up to the discipline and instruction of the Lord. If from the beginning we teach them to love true wisdom, they will have great wealth and glory than riches can provide. If a child learns a trade, or is highly educated for a lucrative profession, all this is nothing compared to the art of detachment from riches; if you want to make your child rich, teach him this. He is truly rich who does not desire great possessions, or surround himself with wealth, but who requires nothing…Don’t think that only monks need to learn the Bible; Children about to go out into the world stand in greater need of Scriptural knowledge.” — Homilies on Ephesians, Homily 21 ELECTION AND DIVINE ELECTION In a few weeks, the citizens of the United States will go to the polls and vote for the next President of the country. On Election Day, the first Tuesday of November, results will be announced, and the people will have the knowledge of who will have the responsibility of governing for the next four years. The placement of Election Day as a an event with an established order (i.e., first Tuesday of November) as, for example, that of Independence Day (on July 4th) functions as a kind of cycle of “important feasts” in the American life. Thanksgiving and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day are also to be seen in this light. These are days that remind Americans of the establishment of the nation, its traditions, laws, and culture. To Orthodox Christians, the celebration of fixed and moveable feasts in public life is not at all surprising, as this is how the Church has always lived its liturgical life – each day is a feast, in anticipation of the coming Kingdom. The feasts of the Church remind Christians of the Kingdom and its precepts, as well as the love, peace and joy that is the fruit of the Spirit of God. The one day, Election Day, is a reminder of our earthly citizenship, while the Feasts of the Church remind us of our divine election, and thus, our heavenly citizenship. This heavenly election “from above” is a decision by God (not us), freely given in Christ, to allow us to share in His Son’s inheritance. It therefore becomes the norm for how we live our lives here on earth. Election Day is indeed very important, and its occurrence this year as a Presidential year allows us to see how much more important is our divine election. Why is that? It is so, because God’s choice to make us co-inheritors with Christ becomes our calling to show to the world here what it means to be the lamb of God. And it is this Heavenly City whose citizens we are, whose streets and high places we visit when the Divine Liturgy is celebrated, that should guide our ways. We have a good sense of what it is like: "Blessed be the Kingdom of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen." Why does the priest begin like this? What does he want to say? Christ opens before us a marvelous sight. Before us lies a heavenly vision. Before us Christ opens his Kingdom. Much as when you go to a shop and the shopkeeper opens up for you the bolt of cloth and you look at it, pick it up, test its strength, see at its beauty, and say “I’ll buy that,” so Christ does at this moment. He opens his Kingdom before your eyes, so that we will look at it, feel it, take our fill of it, and say: “I too choose this for my life. ” (Archimandrite Aimilianos of Simonopetra, “The Divine Liturgy: The Window to Heaven” in The Church at Prayer: The Mystical Liturgy of the Heart) Fr. Panteleimon Klostri. Saint Luke Church East Longmeadow,MA Parish Life PARISH REGISTER Birth A daughter was born to Dini and Deanna Macris on Thursday, September 20, 2012. Proud grandparents are Dean and Marge Macris. Baptism The son of John and Rebecca Konstantino was baptized on Saturday, September 1, 2012, and given the name Vincent John. Sacramental sponsor was Katerina Konstantino. Wedding On Sunday, September 23, 2012, Jason Babiana was married to Lotus Barkalow. Sacramental sponsor was Anastase Peter Dacey. PLEASE CONSIDER SPONSORING THE FELLOWSHIP HOUR AFTER SUNDAY SERVICES Fellowship Hours may be sponsored in memory of a loved one, to celebrate a birthday, name day, etc. The Parish Council will make the coffee and assist the hosts as needed. Thank you to the following sponsors for September: The Buonocore Family, in honor of Kay’s 85th Birthday. The Family of Angeliki Simos, in her memory The following dates are available: October 21 & 28 Repose Yvonne Zingus Costa, beloved wife and mother of Paul, Caroline and Holden, reposed in the Lord on September 1, and was laid to rest on Thursday, September 6, 2012. MAY HER MEMORY BE ETERNAL MEN’S SUPPORT GROUP This support group is free to the public and deals with issues related to marriage, separation and divorce. The group will meet on Friday, October 5 & 19, at 7:00 pm. For more information, please contact support group facilitator, David Arpie at (860) 446-0057 or the Church office at 860-442-2377. NATIONAL CHURCH MUSIC SUNDAY October 7, 2012 Honoring Church Musicians across the Archdiocese of America “You sounded forth divine melodies like a trumpet and were a bright lamp for the world” Kontakion of St. Andrew of Crete We will be honoring our choir on this day. DISCRETIONARY FUND Our Parish has a Discretionary Fund to assist our parishioners in times of financial need. If you would like to contribute to this Ministry of our Parish please send your contributions to the Church office payable to: St. Sophia Discretionary Fund Stewardship Our St. Sophia 2012 Stewardship Report as of September 20, 2012 Total pledged: $ 137,590.00 Pledges Offerings received: $ 129,060.87 5 191 7 $2,000—$2,999 39 $1,000—$1,999 $19.23-$38.44 57 $500—$999 $9.61—$19.21 # of Pledging Stewards: Highest pledge: $ 5,000.00 Did you know: It cost an average of $1,133.60 a day to keep our doors open in 2011. Our average income was $24,238/month. 83 Yearly Amt. Range $3,000 + Less than $500 Weekly Amt. Range $57.69 + $38.46- $9.60 and under Our 2012 Stewardship Goal is for Stewardship is $469,200, the entire income budget. We are aiming for 100% participation in the Stewardship Program from our parishioners. As of September 20, we have received 191 pledges amounting in $137,590, which is 30% of our goal. Please help us reach our goal by making a Stewardship Commitment today. Thank you to those who have submitting their pledge for 2012. What is a Steward? A Steward is the manager, treasurer, or one who takes care of the Master’s business until He returns. The most sensitive subject in churches today is, by far, money. Have you ever heard anyone say “My church is always asking for money. I wish I could belong to a church that never needed any money”. Surely they don’t mean that. Any church that is alive needs money. Only dead churches to not call on their members for support. Support of time, talents and treasury - Stewardship A church that is alive needs the generous, sacrificial support of those who love it. Only a dead church demands no sacrifice. As Orthodox Christians we must cultivate the fact that all we are and have is entrusted to us by God for His glory. The evil heart begins when we think we are the owners. A lack of stewardship causes us to be self-willed, self-indulgent, and Godforgetting. We then spend and use all we have on ourselves. How would you feel if after ordering at a restaurant the waitress brought you the leftover food from another table? You’d be furious! Can you imagine how God feels? I’m sure He isn’t pleased with His people spending all “their” earnings on themselves all week, then dropping leftover money in the offering plate on Sunday. Coffee Prices 20 oz cup of coffee Dunkin Donuts $1.95 Starbucks $2.25 Medium Iced Coffee Dunkin Donuts $2.29 Starbucks $2.39 I like the story about the man who came to church with his family. As they were driving home afterwards he was complaining about everything. He said, “The music was too loud. The sermon was too long. The announcements were unclear. The building was cold. The people were unfriendly.” He went on and on, complaining about virtually everything. Finally, his very observant son said, “Dad, you’ve got to admit it wasn’t a bad show for just a dollar.” Parish Council News FROM COUNCIL PRESIDENT PAULA DART ST. SOPHIA FINANCIAL REPORT Summer vacations are over and it is back to business full force with projects that need our attention. 8/1/12 to 8/31/12 We can all breathe a sigh of relief now that the church roof has been replaced. A. Beautiful of New London did a great job. It’s now time to move onto our next project which will most likely be our Community Center roof and floor. For this to happen we are moving forward with the Capital Campaign Project to raise the funds needed for the repairs and replacement projects needed to upkeep our facilities. I am pleased to announce that George Ballassi has agreed to chair the Capital Campaign Committee. A big thank you to George for heading up this committee. This is a huge task that lies ahead of us. We need each and every one of you to make this a successful campaign. Remember, this is our church and we must strive to take care of the beautiful complex we have. If you are interested in joining the committee please see George. The weather was a little iffy the day of the Liturgy at the Beach and Cross Throwing Celebration, however, we had a good turnout and the view was beautiful. Thank you to everyone that helped organize, cook, set up and clean up. The John Fakis era is well underway as John has assumed the position of choir director. The choir sang for the first time after the summer break on September 16th and did a great job. Compliments were flowing during the coffee hour which were nice to hear. Choir members, we THANK YOU for your continued dedication and service to St. Sophia. Our fall festival is right around the corner. You will find the cooking and baking schedules in the monthly and weekly bulletins. Please jump in and help, don’t wait to be asked. It puts a lot more work on those in charge if they have to continuously call parishioners and ask for help. Sign up sheets will be available in the community center for you to sign up to help with cooking, baking, cashiering, the food line, pastry booth, etc. We will be selling special Festival T-shirts and aprons so we can wear them during the festival. Let’s all pitch in and make this our most successful festival to date. Don’t forget to place your festival greetings in our Ad Book. The rates are: Full Page $100, 1/2 Page $60, 1/4 Page $40, Patron Listing $25, inside Back Cover $150. An advertising contract is included with this bulletin. The deadline for ads is October 15. Income Stewardship Candles Trays General Donations Panagia’s Memorial Donations Bulletin Hall Use (Makaria) Bookstore Designated Donatiuons 6,028.00 1,595.00 870.00 50.00 1,310.00 800.00 90.00 100.00 90.00 127.00 Total Income $ 11,060.00 Expense Salaries/Benefits Archdiocese Commitment Utilities Maintenance Candles Bible Camp Bookstore RISO Lease Rel. Programs/Choir/books Office Expense Auto Expenses Fund Raisers General Expense Postage $ 12,232.49 4,000.00 2,851.87 514.40 961.70 73.95 10.99 229.00 99.98 386.37 226.82 102.46 259.46 54.00 Total Expenses $ 22,007.49 Overall Total (- $10,947.49) Operating Funds of the Parish as of 8/31/12 Checking Account Balance— $ Money Market Balance - $ 13,657.02 749.09 Restricted Funds/Loan Balances as of 8/31/12 Foundation Fund Assets - $369,884.25 St. Sophia F.F Loan Balance— $ 71,082.00 Kavarnos Trust - $ 49,736.56 (after icon ceiling project is completed & paid for) Remember “Much more is accomplished when we all work together!” Development Fund Acct. - Thank you, Maintenance Account - Paula $ $ 2,124.15 Chelsea Bank Loan Balance - $326,666.66 $ 4,436.15 Youth News Greek School 2012-2013 Sunday School Classes will be held every Saturday starting on Saturday, October 13. Students will learn the Greek language and different elements of Greek culture. TUITION Classes are held every Sunday following Holy Communion For Parish members $175 for first child $125 for second child $100 for third child For non-members $300 for first child $250 for second child $200 for third child For information please contact Dora Georgeady at 860-599-8794 Divine Liturgy begins at 10:00 am Fr. Dean speaks with the children following the consecration of the Holy Gifts. This year’s theme: The Sermon on the Mount Seating for students and families is on the left hand side of the church. Youth Event Corn Maze and More! Sunday, October 28 Meet at 2:45 pm at Sunday School Attendance Incentive Program The Sunday School Department honors students in Grades 5 – 11 who have perfect attendance for a four week block with a special ceremony where they each receive a St. Sophia chocolate bar and their name is placed in a drawing for a gift card! The class with the highest percentage of perfect attendance receives a Dunkin Donuts bagel breakfast. In Grades PK – 4th, those with perfect attendance pick from the Treasure Box and the winning class gets a trophy. Pictures of all students with perfect attendance will appear on the “Attendance Stars” board in the foyer. Hellenic Dancers Scotts Yankee Farmer 436 Boston Post Road in East Lyme Bring $7 (entrance fee for the maze) Join us as we try to find our way through the corn maze. After, we will gather back at the Church for food, fun, games & Fellowship October Dance Practice Schedule Every Sunday from 12:30 pm —1:30 pm To prepare for festival performances. Parish Life SEPTEMBER MEETINGS AND ACTIVITIES Monday, 10/1: Parish Council 6:00 pm Wednesday, 10/3: Bible Study 10:00 am & 7:00 pm Thursday, 10/4: Choir Practice 5:30 pm Wednesday, 10/10: Moussaka & Pastitso prep 8 am Bible Study 10:00 am & 7:00 pm Thursday, 1011: Senior Citizens 12:30 pm Choir Practice 5:30 pm Friday, 10/12: Soup Kitchen Outreach 4:00 pm Saturday, 10/13: Greek School 9:30 am Tuesday, 10/16: Koulourakia baking 9:00 am Wednesday, 10/17: Bible Study 10:00 am & 7:00 pm Thursday, 10/18: Choir Practice 5:30 pm Philoptochos 6:30 pm Saturday, 10/20: Greek School 9:30 am Wednesday, 10/24: Bible Study 10:00 am & 7:00 pm Thursday, 10/25: Kourambiedes baking 9:00 am Choir Practice 5:30 pm Saturday, 10/27: Spanakopita making 9:00 am Greek School 9:30 am Sunday, 10/28: OXI Day Dance 8:00 pm Wednesday, 10/31: Chicken prep 8:00 am Saturday, 11/3: Lamb Shank prep 8:00 am Monday, 11/5: Kitchen prep work 8:00 am PARISH OUTREACH PROJECT We have made a commitment to work at the New London Community Meal Center (Soup Kitchen) on the second Friday of each month. We need 6 to 8 volunteers each month to do prep work, serve, do dishes and clean up. We start at 4:00 pm and finish about 6:30 pm. Please see or call Eleni Mosher at 443-2569 or Irene Synodi at 464-7429, or call the Church Office at 442-2377 to volunteer your time. Upcoming Dates: October 8 and November 9 THANK YOU The Costa and Zingus Families would like to thank parishioners and friends for their words of comfort, cards, calls, prayers and sympathy extended to them on the recent repose of their beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and aunt, Yvonne Zingus Costa. Many thanks for the visits, calls and cards from the members of St. Sophia during my hospitalization and rehabilitation. Again, many thanks. - Jack Van Verdeghem THE YOUNG AT HEART CLUB St. Sophia Seniors The monthly meeting of the St. Sophia Senior Citizens met for their first meeting of the Ecclesiastical Year on Thursday, September 9, 2012. Fr. Dean opened the meeting with a prayer and moment of silence for all departed members. President Myrtle Johnston welcomed the seniors and thanked Chef Angelo Simos for preparing the delicious chicken luncheon. She also thanked the members who brought in wine and desserts. The Sunshine Committee sent cards to the following: Congratulations to Mike and Nita Pappas on their 70th Wedding Anniversary, a Get Well to Jack Van Verdeghem, following his surgery and a Sympathy Card to Tillie Zingus on the recent loss of her daughter. President Johnston reported that the club has paid in full for their Commemorative Stone and since their treasury is healthy. With this in mind the membership voted to donate $200 to St. Sophia Church for the use of the community center. Raffle prizes were won by Priscilla Ballassi, Tina Andreopoulos and Peter Pantelis. Thank you to Irene Van Verdeghem for donating the prizes. The membership will meet again on Thursday, October 11, at 12:30 pm. Submitted by Myrtle Johnston, President Philoptochos News The Philoptochos is back in full swing and readying for an exciting, event-packed year. The Program and Membership Committee has put together a wonderful program for each meeting. I thank them for all the time they’ve put into this committee. Following the first business meeting of the Ecclesiastical year held on Thursday, September 27, members enjoyed the “Sangia and Song” themed evening. The musical program was provided by Judith Mack of Montville and featured a sing-a-long. Members also enjoyed Sangria and delicious appetizers and desserts provided by the Philopotochos Board. Thank you to our members for their generous contributions of cookies and other edibles, gift cards, and school items for the packages recently sent to our college students. Thank you to Chairman Stephanie Panagos for arranging and mailing the packages. During the business portion of the meeting, members reviewed goals and the calendar of events for the 2012-2013 year. Committee Chairmen for the year are the following: Membership/Program: Nina Vallombroso, Alice Poulios and Penny Maistros; Outreach: Irene Synodi; College Outreach: Stephanie Panagos; Sunshine: JoAnn Ballassi; Ministry Awareness Luncheon: Penny Maistros, Phone Tree: Mary Gannon. Other committee chairmen will be announced in the November bulletin Ministry Awareness Luncheon Mark Your Calendars! Please join us for our first fundraising event on Sunday, October 14th when the guests for our Ministry Awareness Luncheon will be the Holy Cross Byzantine Choir and students of Hellenic College/Holy Cross School of Theology. Proceeds from the luncheon benefit our “Fr. Charles J. Simones Scholarship Fund, which awards a $1,000 scholarship to a student of Holy Cross. Please see the flyer on the next page for more information and a reservation form. The membership will meet again on Thursday, October 18, at 6:30 pm. The program for the evening will be “Book Talk” - a short book review on a selection dealing with Greek Culture or Orthodoxy. There will also be a recipe review and refreshments will be served. Don’t forget to volunteer your time for our 60th Annual Food Festival on November 6, 7, 8 & 9. Submitted by Jeanne Fakis President Enosis Philoptochos invites you to a night at the theatre for: “Menopause, the Musical” A hilarious musical celebrating women and the “change” Saturday, December 1 8:00 pm Garde Arts Center in New London Tickets are $53/each If you plan to attend & want to sit with our group we must have your commitment in the church office by October 21. Your commitment is $53 for each ticket desired (checks payable to Enosis Philoptochos, please). Once the tickets are ordered & we have a list of attendees we will decide as a group if we want to meet for dinner prior to the show. For additional information please contact Stephanie Panagos at (860) 447-8365 or [email protected] The Members of the Philoptochos Society Invite You To A Ministry Awareness Luncheon featuring The Holy Cross Byzantine Choir and Students from Hellenic College/ Holy Cross School of Theology This year, Hellenic College/Holy Cross is celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of Holy Cross in 1937. Hellenic College/Holy Cross is the oldest and largest Orthodox Christian institution of higher learning in North America. Sunday, October 14, 2012 Immediately Following the Divine Liturgy Menu Mediterranean Chicken Kebobs Over Warm Orzo Salad, Mixed Greens Salad, dessert, wine and beverage Donation: Adults - $16.00 Alternate Children’s Menu - $5.00 (Hamburgers & fries) Tickets on Sale through October 10th No tickets will be sold at the door. Proceeds to benefit the Fr. Charles Simones Scholarship Fund RESERVATION FORM Name ____________________________________________________________ Adults: ______ Children: ______ @ $16.00 = __________ @ 5.00 = Deadline: October 10 __________ Please make checks payable to: Enosis Philoptochos Society My Life in Christ PRAYER REQUESTS HOSPICE GRIEF COUNSELING Please remember in prayer the servants of God… Hospice Southeastern Connecticut offers grief-support groups open to anyone in the public grieving the loss of a loved one. Mimi, Mary, Helen, Mari, Peter, Athena, Barbara, Alexandra, Jacquelyn, Efrosine, John, Helen, Jeffrey, Peter, Tom, Catherine, Mary, Angeliki, Despina, Dodi, Joseph, George, Richard, Sophia, Karl, Antigone, Donna, Caryn, Dottie, Ernest, Tia, Helen, Nita, Alexandria, Constantine, Calianthe, Paraskevi, Christos, Effie, Peter, Annie, Steve, Niko “Church isn’t where you meet. Church isn’t a building. Church is what you do. Church is who you are. Church is the human outworking of the person of Jesus Christ. Let’s not go to Church; let’s be the Coping with the Loss of a Parent Day/Time: Thursdays, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Dates: October 4, 11, 18, & 25, 2012 Location: L & M Hospital, Conference Room 3 Coping with the Loss of a Sibling Day/Time: Mondays, 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm Dates: October 1, 15, 22, & 29, 2012 Location: Hospice SECT 227 Dunham St., Nowich Coping with the Loss of a Spouse or Partner Day/Time: Thursdays, 10:00 am – 11:30 am Dates: October 4, 11, 18, & 25, 2012 Location: Atria at Crossroads, 1 Beechwood Drive, Waterford Seniors (60+) Grieving the Loss of a Loved One Days: 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of each month Time: 10:00—11:00 am (ongoing) Location: Stone Ridge Senior Living, 186 Jerry Brown Rd, Mystic All groups are free of charge. Pre-registration is required: please call 860-848-5699 Church.” PRAYERS FOR THE DECEASED ΟΝΟΜΑΤΩΝ ΤΩΝ ΑΠΟΘΑΝΟΝΤΩΝ We will have a special memorial service on October 28, for the following Orthodox Christians who have fallen asleep in the Lord in the month of October. Paul J. Botchis, Oct. 12, 1948. Panagiotis Keramides, Oct. 18, 1948 Zois Botchis, Oct. 10, 1949 Evangelos Apostolou, Oct. 1, 1950 John Gergulis, Oct. 3, 1950 Vasilios Slawson, Oct. 21, 1951 Parthena Kezapidou, Oct. 11, 1951 Nicholas Ladas, Oct. 12, 1954 Pulheria Ioannou, Oct. 29, 1955 Diamantis Ballassi, Oct. 23, 1956 Smaragdi Synodi, Oct. 3, 1961 Gregory Gianaris, Oct. 23, 196 Efrosini Bogas, Oct. 21, 1963 John Nicholas, Oct. 24, 1964 Paraskevi Mantzaris, Oct. 15, 1965 Gerasimos Stratidis, Oct. 21, 1965 Thomas Dousis, Oct. 11, 1966 Fronia Papadopoulos, Oct. 2, 1967 Socrates Deligeorges, Oct. 6, 1969 Helen Sourvales, Oct. 6, 1970 Athanasios Constantine Oct. 2, 1970 Koralia Krita, Oct. 20, 1972 Spyros Velles, Oct. 21, 1972 Georgia Therrien, Oct. 2, 1973 Lambrini Deligeorges, Oct. 12, 1976 Erifili Mantheou, Oct. 22, 1976 Demetros Contulis, Oct. 1, 1977 Nicholas Kanges, Oct. 14, 1978 Katherine Gianou, Oct. 15, 1981 Tekla Stadnick, Oct. 29, 1981 William Economy, Oct. 20, 1983 Peter Soutsos, Oct. 22, 1983 Antonia Provatas, Oct. 24, 1984 George C. James, Oct. 7, 1987 Alexander Benois, Oct. 11, 1988 Alexandra Myers, Oct. 25, 1988 Katherine Lalaitis, Oct. 31, 1988 Louis Gianakakos,Oct. 24, 1989 Richard Mc Cary, Oct. 4, 1990, Spyro Mandes, Oct. 18, 1990 Spiro Kavarnos, Oct. 17, 1991 Nicholas Papadapulos, Oct. 11, 994 Fevronia Contulis, Oct. 18, 1996 Sophia Mountzoures, Oct. 7, 1997 Photini Procopes, Oct. 9, 1999 Donna Hornby, Oct. 26, 2000 Katina Zingus, Oct. 14, 2001 Alexander Pappas, Oct. 1, 2002 Barbara Totolis, Oct. 5, 2003 Hristos Goumenos, Oct. 16, 2003 Helen Lahanas, Oct. 25, 2003 Gregory Coutoupis, Oct. 7, 2004 Mary Stone, Oct. 27, 2005 George Kavarnos, Oct. 9, 2006 Bessie Dallas, Oct.14, 2007 Mary Mathews, Oct. 28, 2007 James John Barakos, Oct. 1, 2008 Zoe B. Smith, Oct. 26, 2008 Angeliki Simos, Oct. 8, 2009 Issidoros Mendrinos, Oct. 22, 2009 Stella Kaika, Oct. 29, 2009 Chris Simones, Oct. 24, 2011 Living Orthodoxy in Everyday Life The goal of man is communion with God. The path to this communion has been precisely defined: faith, and walking in the Commandments with the help of God’s grace. Saint Theophan the Recluse Our purpose in life is to abide with God. In Orthodoxy we call this Theosis (union with God). Saint Paul explains this in his epistle to the Galatians when he writes...”It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” (Gal. 2:20). We seek holiness and union with God when we understand and participate in the life of the Church as expressed in the Tradition of our Orthodox faith. Most of us never take the time to reflect on the purpose of our lives. Often we don’t do this until someone we love departs from this life unexpectedly. During this moment of grief, our soul has our attention and we begin to think about what life is all about. In one way, life is about death. We all know this is where we are headed, but we too often refuse to think about this seriously because of the unknown and the fear it presents. Jesus, the Apostles and the Saints of the Church teach us that the purpose of life is one of finding union with God. Jesus came to save us and to open the gates of heaven for us. He showed us how to live through His teaching and example. He showed us that we have nothing to fear in death. To begin, we must have faith in God and accept His love for us. With a little faith, one can begin to live the Orthodox way of life! This way of life is given to us by Christ Himself through His Church. It is a proven way of life that will bring us closer to God. As we come closer to God, we increase our capability to deal with any difficulty we may face. The Church provides us certain gifts to assist us in our journey to union in Christ. These gifts are: Worship Sacramental Living Scripture Liturgical year Priorities Watchfulness Charity Spiritual fellowship During the next several months we will look at each one and see ways to incorporate them in our lives.. Our goal is to continue to grow in the faith and love of our Lord and Savior Jesus ORTHODOX STUDIES IN THE FAITH Wednesday in the Vallas Building Morning Study - 10:00 am Evening Study - 7:00 pm The Study last one hour THE BOOK OF EXODUS October 3 Chapter 2 A Mother’s Faith October 10 Chapter 3 & 4 Facing the Impossible October 17 Chapter 5 - 7:7 Obedient Courage October 24 Chapter 7:8 – 10:29 God’s Power on the Line CHURCH ETIQUETTE Lipstick smears icons, crosses, the communion spoon, and the priest’s or bishop's hand. Handwritten icons have been ruined by lipstick; and even though the cross or spoon can y be cleaned after everyone venerates, it’s not very considerate to those who follow. What is the answer? If one insists on wearing lipstick to church, blot your lips well before venerating.... Point of consideration: God, Whom we alone come before in Liturgy, is not concerned with our external attractiveness, but with the adorning of our souls in humility, good works, and piety. Besides being disrespectful toward God, talking is distracting for others who are striving to pray. The Church is the House of God and as such we should be respectful and refrain from all causal talk prior to and during any service of the Church. It is best to save conversation for the fellowship hall, inviting guests downstairs for a visit. Oxi day dance SuNDAY, OCTOBER 28 8:00 PM Music by Antonis Kyritsis vocals Vagelis Verdis Yiannis Staikos Sideris Antrianos Buffet Tickets: Kostas Verdis Defi bouzouki guitar and vocals mezzethakia - Adults: $35 St. Sophia Church Community Center 200 Hempstead Street, New London, Ct Clarinet cash bar Children 12 & under: $20 For tickets call: 860-442-2377 Festival News 60th ANNUAL GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL November 6, 7, 8 & 9, 2012 Tuesday — Friday 11 am - 9 pm daily Please mark this on your calendars and plan to volunteer your time for this major fund raiser. A volunteer form can be found in this bulletin. We need each and every one of our parishioners to give of their time to make this a successful event. Please give as much time as possible. We encourage our young adults and teenagers to also get involved. NEW THIS YEAR! FESTIVAL AD BOOK Wine Tasting Kafenio Silent Auction Jewelry Vintage and Antiques Booth Place your festival greetings in our Ad Book. Help defray the expenses of the festival. Please see Paula Dart to sign up to help at the various booths: the food line, take-out, pastry, raffles, the kafenio, etc, as well as bussing tables and clean up. Full Page = $100 1/2 Page = $60 1/4 Page = $40 Patron Listing = $25 Inside Back Cover = $150 Sign up sheets can be found in the Community Center as well as the foyer and office. Don’t forget to donate pastry for the pastry booth: ravani, karidopeta, galaktoboureko, etc. Items needed for the Silent Auction of Goods & Services: Examples of services: Tutoring, Legal Services, Cooking Class, Yard Work, etc. Examples of Goods - Quilt or other Handmade Items, Artwork, Gift Certificates to Restaurants or Theatre, Crystal Items, etc. Items needed for the Vintage and Antiques Booth are Vintage Linens, Glassware, Holloware and Small Antique Items (No Furniture). PLEASE NO TAG SALE ITEMS. All items must be in good condition, linens must be washed and ironed. Please drop donations at the church during the week of October 21 thru October 28. For questions or further information please call Penny Maistros at 860-848-3665 or Themis Kudrin 860-739-9768. Ad Rates Advertising contracts available in this bulletin, in the foyer and the Church Office. Deadline: October 15 FESTIVAL COOKING AND BAKING SCHEDULE Moussaka: Wednesday, Oct. 10 8:00 am Pastitso: Wednesday, Oct. 10 8:00 am Koulourakia: Tuesday, Oct. 16 9:00 am Kourambiedes: Thursday, Oct. 25 9:00 am Spanakopita: Saturday, Oct. 27 9:00 am Chicken: Wednesday, Oct. 31 8:00 am Lamb Shanks: Saturday, Nov. 3: 8:00 am Prep Work: Monday, Nov. 5: 8:00 am Baklava and Finikia times TBA HELLENIC DANCERS The Hellenic Dancers will perform Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Practice will be every Sunday after Sunday School classes. 60th Annual Greek Festival November 6 - 9, 2012 St. Sophia Hellenic Orthodox Church 200 Hempstead Street, New London, Connecticut 06320 Advertising Contract 2012 Festival Program Booklet ADVERTISER’S NAME: _______________________________________ ADDRESS:__________________________ CITY:_________________________ PHONE:_____________________ EMAIL ______________________ AD RATES _____ Full Page = $100 _____ 1/2 Page = $60 _____ 1/4 Page = $40 _____ Patron Listing $25 _____ back cover pages $150 ea. (1 inside & 1 outside) Full page size 6” x 7.5” To comply with our deadline, ad copy and full payment must be received no later than October 15, 2012 NO EXCEPTIONS ALLOWED. Please send your ad copy, this form and your check payable to St. Sophia Church 200 Hempstead Street New London, CT 06320 _____ Paid ______ Check _____ Cash For information please contact: Thelma Hunter 860-445-5351 or Jeanne Fakis 860-442-2377 ΑΝΑΚΟΙΝΩΣΕΙΣ ΚΑΙ ΠΡΟΓΡΑΜΜΑ ΤΗΣ ΚΟΙΝΟΤΗΤΟΣ ΔΙΑ ΤΟΝ ΟΚΤΩΒΡΙΟΥ 2012 Ακολουθίες δία τές Κυριακές ‘Ορθρος 9:00 π.μ. - Θεία Λειτουργία 10:00 π.μ. Καθημερινές Ακολουθίες Όρθρος/ Θεία Λειτουργία 8:30 π.μ. (Π) στό Παρεκκλήσιον μας Δευτέρα, 1 Οκτωβρίου Συμβούλιον 6:00 μ.μ. Τετάρτη, 3 Οκτωβρίου Κύκλος τής προσευχής 10:00 π.μ. & 7:00 μ.μ. Πέμπτη, 4 Οκτωβρίου Πρακτική Χορωδία 5:30 μ.μ. Παρασκευή, 5 Οκτωβρίου Ομάδα Υποστήριξης Άνδρών 7:00 μ.μ. Κυριακή, 7 Οκτωβρίου SERΓIOY ΚΑΙ BAKΧOY Τεσσερανκονθήμερον μνημόσυνιον διά τήν ΄Ευανθία Κώστα Τετάρτη, 10 Οκτωβρίου Κύκλος τής προσευχής 10:00 π.μ. & 7:00 μ.μ. Πέμπτη, 11 Οκτωβρίου Σύλλογος τών ηλικιωμένων 12:30 μ.μ. Πρακτική Χορωδία 5:30 μ.μ. Σάββατον, 13 Οκτωβρίου Eλληνικόν Σχολείον 9:30 π.μ. Κυριακή, 14 Οκτωβρίου ΤΩΝ ΑΓΙΩΝ ΠΑΤΕΡΩΝ Τετάρτη, 17 Οκτωβρίου Κύκλος τής προσευχής 10:00 π.μ. & 7:00 μ.μ. Πέμπτη, 18 Οκτωβρίου ΑΓΙΟΥ ΛΟΥΚΑ ΕΥΑΓΓΕΛΙΣΤΟΥ (Π) Πρακτική Χορωδία 5:30 μ.μ. Φιλόπτωχος 6:30 μ.μ. Παρασκευή, 19 Οκτωβρίου Ομάδα Υποστήριξης Άνδρών 7:00 μ.μ. Σάββατον, 20 Οκτωβρίου Ελληνικόν Σχολείον 9:30 π.μ. Κυριακή, 21 Οκτωβρίου ΙΛΑΡΙΩΝΟΣ ΤΟΥ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΥ ΘΕΟΔΟΤΗΣ Βάπτισις Σόλζπερη 1:00 μ,.μ. Τετάρτη, 24 Οκτωβρίου Κύκλος τής προσευχής 10:00 π.μ. & 7:00 μ.μ. Πέμπτη, 25 Οκτωβρίου Πρακτική Χορωδία 5:30 μ.μ. Παρασκευή, 26 Οκτωβρίου ΔΗΜΗΤΡΙΟΥ ΜΕΓΑΛΟΜΑΡΤΥΡΟΣ Σάββατον, 27 Οκτωβρίου Ελληνικόν Σχολείον 9:30 π.μ. Βάπτισις Βόκολου 11:00 π.μ. Κυριακή, 28 Οκτωβρίου ΑΓΙΑΣ ΣΚΕΚΠΗΣ ΥΠΕΡΑΓΙΑΣ ΘΕΟΤΟΚΟΥ Γλέντι γιά τήν 28ην Όκτωβρίου 8:00 μ.μ. Προσεύχεσθε ύπέρ ύγείας τών δούλων τού Θεου..... Μιμή, Μαρία, Έλένη, Μαρή, Πέτρο, Άθηνά, Βαρβάρα, Άλεξάνδρα, Δήμητρα, Εύροσύνη, Ίωάννη, Έλένη, Παναγιότη, Θωμά, Άννα, Αίκατερίνη, Μαρία, Άγγελική, Δέσποινα, Ίωσήφ, Γεώργιο, Ρικάρδο, Σοφία, Κάρλ, Άντιγώνη, Ντάνα, Κάρην, Δοροθέα, ‘Αναστάσιος, Τιά, Έλένη, Νίτα, Κωνσταντίνο, Καλιάνθη, Παρασκευή, Χρήστος, Έφη, Σταύρος, Νίκόλαο ΤΕΚΝΟΠΟΙΗΣΙΣ Ή κα Διάννα Μάκρη έτεκεν kόρην τήν 20ην Σεπτεμβρίου, 2012. ΒΑΠΤΙΣΙΣ Έτελέσθη ή βάπτισις τού υιού τού Ίωάννη καί τής Ρεββέκας Κωνσταντίνου, τό Σάββατον, τήν 1ην Σεπτεμβρίου, 2012 καί τού εδόθη τό όνομα Βινσέντιος. Ή ανάδοχος ήτο ή Έκατερινή Κωνσταντίνου. ΤΟ ΦΕΣΤΙΒΑΛ ΤΗΣ ΕΚΚΛΗΣΙΑΣ Τό Φέστιβαλ τής Αγίας Σοφίας θά είναι τό 6, 7 8 καί 9 Noεμβρίου. Ζητούμεν τήν βοήθειάν σας. Τηλεφωνήσατε τό γραφείον μας καί δηλώσατε τήν συμμετοχήν σας. Αί γυναίκες τής κοινότητος παρακαλούνται νά ψήσουν γλυκίσματα. Πρακαλούμε επικοινωνήστε μέ τόν Πάτερ Κωνσταντίνο άν έσείς ή κάποιος δικό σας είναι στό Νοσοκομείο. ΣΥΝΔΡΟΜΗΤΕΣ Μέχρι τήν 20 Σεπτεμβίου έχομεν λάβει 191 κάρτες υποσχέσεων μέ τό ποσόν τών $137,590. Ευχαριστούμεν αυτούς. Μέχρι σήμερον έχομεν είσπράξει από τές υποσχέσεις αυτές $129,060.87. Ό καθένας από μας έχει ιεράν υποχρέωσιν νά δώση τήν υποστήριξιν αναλόγως μέ τές οικομενικές του δυνάμεις. Mπουφές Ή στέψις τής Λότας Μπάρκαλο μετά τού Ίάσον Μπαμπιάνη ετελέσθη τήν 23ην Σεπτεμβίου, 2012. ‘Ο κουμπάρος ήτο ό ‘Αναστάσιος Ντάρση. ΕΠΙΣΚΕΨΕΙΣ ΣΤΟ ΝΟΣΟΚΟΜΕΙΟ Εισιτήρια $ 35 ΣΤΕΨΕΙΣ ΘΑΝΑΤΟΣ Ή αείμνηστος Έυανθία Χίνγα Κώστα, αγαπημένη σύζυγος, μητέρα, κόρη καί άδελφή, εκοιμήθη έν Κυρίω τήν 1ην Σεπτεμβρίου καί εκηδεύθη τήν 6ην Σεπτεμβρίου, 2012. ΑΙΩΝΙΑ Η ΜΝΗΜΝΗ ΑΥΤΗΣ «Η ΦΩΝH ΤHΣ ΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΟΥ XΡΙΣΤΙΑΝΟΣΥΝΗΣ» μέ τόν πατέρα Κωνσταντίνον Σιμώνην Metrocast Cable Channel 24 Κάθε Τρίτην 7 μ.μ. Comcast Groton Channel 12 Κάθε Πέμπτην 5 μ.μ ΓΛΕΝΤΙ ΓΙΑ ΤΗΝ 28ην ΟΚΤΩΒΡΙΟΥ Thames Cable Groton Channel 12 Κάθε Πέμπτην 5 μ.μ. Κυριακή, 27 ’Οκτωβρίου 8:00 μ.μ. Comcast Lyme Channel 14 Κάθε Δευτέρα 4:30 μ.μ. Νεολαία 12 και κάτω $20 ΄Oρεκτικά Μπάρα Cash Δείτε τό Άγγλικό κειμνένον γιά περισσότερες πληροφορίες. Comcast Norwich Channel 14 Κάθε Δευτέρα 4:30 μ.μ. Comcast Clinton Channel 19 Κάθε Δευτέραν 8 μ.μ. ΖΩΝΤΑΣ ΟΡΘΟΔΟΞΙΑ ΣΤΗΝ ΚΑΘΗΜΕΡΙΝΗ ΖΩΗ Ο στόχος του ανθρώπου είναι η κοινωνία του με τον Θεό. Η πορεία προς την κοινωνία αυτή έχε οριστεί: με την πίστη, και με το να διάγουμε τον βίο μας μέσω των Εντολών με τη βοήθεια της χάριτος του Θεού. Άγιος Θεοφάνης ο Έγκλειστος Ο σκοπός της ζωής μας είναι να την βιώνουμε συμφωνα με τις οδηγίες του Θεού. Στην Ορθοδοξία αυτό το ονομάζουμε θέωση (ένωση με το Θεό). Ο Απόστολος Παύλος μας το εξηγεί στην επιστολή του προς τους Γαλάτες, όταν γράφει ... "Δεν είμαι πλέον εγώ που ζω, αλλά ο Χριστός που ζει μέσα μου." (Γαλ. 2:20). Επιδιώκουμε την αγιότητα και την ένωση με το Θεό, όταν έχουμε κατανοήσει και συμμετέχει στη ζωή της Εκκλησίας, όπως εκφράζεται στην παράδοση της Ορθόδοξης πίστης μας. Οι περισσότεροι από εμάς δεν παίρνουν το χρόνο να προβληματιστούν σχετικά με το σκοπό της ζωής μας. Συχνά δεν το κάνουμε αυτό μέχρι την στιγμη που κάποιος που αγαπάμε αναχωρεί από αυτή τη ζωή απροσδόκητα. Κατά τη διάρκεια αυτής της θλίψης, η ψυχή μας έχει την προσοχή μας και να αρχίζουμε να σκεφτόμαστε για το τι είναι ζωή. Κατά κάποιο τρόπο, η ζωή είναι σχετικη με το θάνατο. Όλοι το γνωρίζουν ότι εκεί θα καταλήξουν, αλλά πολύ συχνά αρνούνται να το σκεφτούν σοβαρά γιατί τους τρομάζει το άγνωστο και ο φόβος που παρουσιάζει. Ο Ιησούς, οι Απόστολοι και οι Άγιοι της Εκκλησίας μας διδάσκουν ότι ο σκοπός της ζωής μας είναι η ένωσις μας με το Θεό. Ο Ιησούς ήρθε για να μας σώσει και να ανοίξει τις πύλες παραδείσου του για μας. Μας έδειξε πώς να ζουμε μέσα από τη διδασκαλία και το παράδειγμά Του. Μας έδειξε ότι δεν έχουμε τίποτα να φοβόμαστε στο θάνατο. Κατ 'αρχάς, θα πρέπει να έχουμε πίστη στο Θεό και να αποδεκτούμε την αγάπη Του για μας. Με λίγη πίστη, μπορεί κανείς να αρχίσει να ζει τον ορθόδοξη τρόπο ζωής! Αυτός ο τρόπος ζωής που μας δόθηκε από τον ίδιο τον Χριστό μέσα στην Εκκλησία Του. Είναι ένας αποδεδειγμένος τρόπος ζωής που θα μας φέρει πιο κοντά στο Θεό. Καθώς ερχόμαστε πιο κοντά στο Θεό, αποκτούμε την δυνατότητα να αντιμετωπίσουμε κάθε δυσκολία που μας τυχαίνει. Η Εκκλησία μας παρέχει ορισμένα δώρα για να μας βοηθήσει στο ταξίδι μας για την ένωση με τον Χριστό. Αυτά τα δώρα είναι τα εξής: Λατρεία Μυστηριακή ζωή Γραφές Λειτουργικον ‘Ετος Προτεραιότητες Επαγρύπνιση Φιλανθρωπία Πνευματική Βοήθεια Κατά τους επόμενους μήνες θα τα αναλύσουμε κάθε ένα χωριστά και βρούμε τρόπους για να τα ενσωματώσουμε στη ζωή μας . Στόχος μας είναι να συνεχίσουμε να δημιουργούμε μέσα από την πίστη μας και την αγάπη του Κυρίου και Σωτήρος ημών Ιησού Χριστού. Ο ΚΑΤΑΛΟΓΟΣ ΤΩΝ ΟΝΟΜΑΤΩΝ ΤΩΝ ΑΠΟΘΑΝΟΝΤΩΝ ΔΙΑ ΤΟΝ ΟΚΤΩΒΡΙΟΝ ΕΥΡΙΣΚΕΤΑΙ ΣΤΟ ΑΓΓΛΙΚΟ ΚΕΙΜΕΝΟΝ HOLY FATHERS OF 7TH ECUM. COUNCIL Parish Council Meeting 6:00 pm 22 15 8 1 Mon OXI Dance 8:00 pm Mitchell Baptism 1:00 pm Corn Maze & More Youth Event 2:45 pm 28 HOLY PROTECTION OF THE 29 THEOTOKOS Hellenic Dancers practice Solsbury Baptism 1:00 pm Hellenic Dancers practice 21 RIGHTEOUS HILARION Hellenic Dancers practice 14 Hellenic Dancers practice 40 day memorial for Yvonne Costa 7 MARTYRS SERGIOS & BACCHUS Sun Matins 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Sunday Services 30 23 16 9 2 Koulourakia Baking 9:00 am Tue 31 24 17 Bible Study 10:00 am and 7:00 pm Chicken prep 8:00 am Bible Study 10:00 am and 7:00 pm Bible Study 10:00 am and 7:00 pm ST. LUKE 25 Choir Practice 5:30 pm Kourambiedes Baking 9:00 am Choir Practice 5:30 pm Philoptochos 6:30 pm Matins/Divine Liturgy 8:30 am 18 Choir Practice 5:30 pm Bible Study 10:00 am and 11 Choir Practice 5:30 pm Senior Citizens 12:30 am Bible Study 10:00 am and 7:00 pm 4 Thu Moussaka & Pastitso 8:00 am 10 3 Wed Hellenic Dances Practices Sundays after Sunday School classes October 2012 Men’s Support Group7:00 pm Soup Kitchen 4 pm Men’s Support Group7:00 pm Matins/Divine Liturgy 8:30 am 26 ST. DEMETRIOS 19 12 5 Fri Spanakopeta 9:00 am Greek School 9:30 am Greek School 9:30 am Greek School 9:30 am 27 20 13 6 Sat Hellenic Dances Practices Sundays after Sunday School classes St. Sophia Hellenic Orthodox Church 200 Hempstead Street, New London, Connecticut 06320 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID New London, CT Permit No. 272 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED PLEASE DELIVER PROMPTLY – TIME VALUED MATERIAL What Value Is There In Attending Church? The third intrinsic value of attending church is to "bear one another's burden". By do so we experience a greater well-being. When one attends church frequently one is more optimistic because one is able to look at the brighter side of things and have stronger hopes of a better tomorrow. Because church is often a peaceful environment, one has more chances of developing a stronger inner being, and a broader understanding of the meaning of life. Being members of a church community also helps one find their social worth which help them achieve personal growth and development. A fourth value of attending church is found in learning of religious life one can discover ultimate resources to meet infinite longings of the finite spirit. What is meant by this is that man is a finite being who seeks realities of infinite nature. Problems, pains, suffering of both mind and body somehow drive someone to ask a lot of things about God and pose doubts in one's heart. These things can often challenge and sometimes weaken someone's faith. Because man has limited mind which cannot answer many questions, he turns to someone who can. We learn quickly that only God. Faith starts in hearing the Word of God and it is nurtured in attending church services. As one continues to go to church, one develops the habit of prayer and therefore establishes a healthy relationship with God. As someone frequently go to church, he hears and learns more about God, learns the best way to handle things especially the not so easy ones. As someone frequently goes to church, someone learns to turn to God not only when he has needs but also when he has something to be thankful of. Frequent churchgoers learn how to live a life worthy of God. As he continues, he grows in faith and therefore achieves spiritual development. The church has been established as God's instrument in building a relationship with man. So when someone goes to church and hears the Word of God, he learns how to start praying. He learns how to live a life according to God's will. A churchgoer somehow adapt a healthy lifestyle, worries less, and has lesser risks of depression which somehow reduces the chance of acquiring illnesses relative to emotional stress. A churchgoer achieves personal and social development as he communes with other members of the church. In the church, he has all the chances of sharing and learning valuable ideas about life and God. A frequent church attendee experiences the benefits of having a God-fearing companion giving him the sense of security and tranquility. As someone continues to attend church services and worships, he strengthens his personal relationship with God and step by step achieves spiritual development as he goes on living life in the here and now.
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