As the Father sends me, so I send you

Volume 26, Issue 2
Ecclesiastical New Year 2016
“As the Father sends me, so I send you”
A publication of
Annunciation Greek
Orthodox Cathedral
Houston, Texas
Inside this Issue
As the Father Sends Me.............. 1
The Catholic Epistles................... 2
Young Adult Ministry.................... 3
Youth Ministry............................... 4
Religious Education..................5-6
AGOC Graduates......................... 7
Greek School.............................8-9
Cathedral Expansion........... 10-11
Philoptochos .............................12
AGAPE, Attendance Awards.....13
Clergy-Laity Congress...............14
Senior Citizens...........................15
Welcome Committee.................16
Santa’s Breakfast.......................16
Cathedral Calendar.............. 17-19
Registry ......................................20
50TH Original
Greek Festival
October 6-7-8-9, 2016
There is no doubt that we are
living in extraordinary times. The
world seems much smaller today,
especially
with
technological
advances in communications with
vehicles like the internet, smart
phones and social media. People
are able to receive news and witness
events in close to real time via
their mobile devices. Many of the
negative events and news stories can
become overwhelming and almost
depressing if we don’t turn them
off and try to find a healthy balance
in our daily life. The Church which
Jesus Christ Himself established for
us, gives us that healthy balance.
Although we can get caught up in
the cares of this life, we must be
attentive not to allow the “world”
to direct our lives, and ultimately
our mission as Christians. The
Annunciation Greek Orthodox
Cathedral of Houston has a mission,
and that is to proclaim the good
news of the Gospel to the world
around us.
parish. This is a great advantage in
helping to spread the Gospel. Being
blessed with these ministries show
us what is possible if we focus our
thoughts on Christ and the mission
of the Church, as our parents and
grandparents did when our parish
was established nearly 100 years
ago. There is much excitement right
now as we enter into our 100th year
as a parish. With our Cathedral
expansion project moving forward,
we will have the opportunity to not
only expand the sanctuary, but to recommit ourselves to a life in Christ,
a liturgical life!
The Holy Gospel directs us to our
mission vary clearly. Open the New
Testament and read the parts of the
Gospels and the Book of Acts that
follow the Resurrection; Read them
and think of what the Lord is talking
about. These are His words before
the Ascension and are extremely
important. What does He say? “As
the Father sends me, so I send you”
(John 20:21). We are sent by our
Lord the same way Christ was sent
by His Father. It is a very heavy
theological and biblical statement.
We also read in the Gospel of Mark,
“Go into all the world” (Mark
16:15), and in the Book of Acts “you
shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem
and in all Judea and Samaria and
to the end of the earth (Acts 1:8).
The Church and our local Cathedral
parish as part of the Body of Christ,
is in a constant state of mission.
While it is good to do mission work
in other parts of the world, I firmly
believe we have to start within,
with the internal mission. We have
to connect and educate and reevangelize our own selves and our
own family. That means as parents
and as Orthodox Christian in general,
that mission starts with us. As we
know, our Cathedral is unique, in
that we are a large parish and offer
many ministries on an ongoing
basis. We also have the largest
Orthodox Christian school (AOS) in It is my fervent hope and prayer that
the United States as a ministry of our we put aside the cares of life that
bring us down, and renew our life in
(continued on page 3)
Page 2 The Annunciator
The Catholic Epistles and the Universal Truth
God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him—1John 4:16
We have come to the end of a very hot summer. I hope that all of you had a safe and enjoyable one. It is now
time to begin another year of Bible Study. It promises to be another exciting and fruitful one as we embark on
our journey of seeking the Kingdom of God and the fruit of the Holy Spirit of love, joy, peace, longsuffering,
kindness, gentleness, self-control. (cf. Galatians 5:22ff)
As we view the world and our society, we have seen untold terrorist acts, violence and persecution of Christians,
difficulties living out the faith in an increasingly hostile and secular society. We find difficulty discerning heresy
and confronting large segments of a society bent on being disparaging against Christians in particular. We
recognize heresy by its fruits: “immorality and lack of love.”
In view of all of the latter, and after much reflection, prayer, and consultation with Father Michael, I decided that
we should study the Catholic (Universal) Epistles of St. James, One and Two Peter, Jude, and the three epistles
of St. John. I have selected another one of Lawrence Farley’s books to guide us: Universal Truth, The Catholic
Epistles of James, Peter, Jude, and John. Even though these epistles were written in different times, for different
reasons, locations, and for different audiences, Farley, very adeptly, ties them all together by describing some of
the themes common to all of them, and how we can resist a hostile society and its heresies by love and “holding
fast to the Apostolic faith.”
Whereas the epistles in their totality, as well as Farley’s commentary, seem short, there are several themes that
stand out. Although we have studied many of them in whole or in part before, they will be revisited and amplified.
In St James’ Epistle, we will review the harmony of faith and works, the role of faith in our salvation, and
that, in salvation, “grace does not nullify personal responsibility.” With One Peter, we will find the theme of
confronting our suffering and persecution through our Baptism where “our goal is fulfillment of Baptism in
Heaven.” Moreover, in Two Peter, we will revisit theosis and the [basic] “doctrine at issue: that the Parousia, the
Second Coming, is a reality.” Finally, in One, Two, and Three John, as well as in Jude we will be seeing how the
early Church dealt with schismatics and their internal assault on the Church. One John in particular, however,
stands alone and is an epistle unto itself. Although it deals with the issue of schism, his major theme focuses much
more on love and contrasts light with darkness. For John, God is light, God is love, and the relationship between
the love of God, and the love of others is paramount. He aptly demonstrates the close relationship of faith, love,
obedience, and life and how all together are interrelated and play a significant role in our salvation.
There is so much more, and more than enough to fill an entire Bible Study year.
Spread the word and come and join us. We will be meeting weekly at AGOC in the Council Room (219) on most
Wednesdays starting on September 14, 2016 at 1:00 and 6:30pm. The Sugar Land Bible Study will meet on the
third Thursday of every month. Frances Hadjigeorge is once again the Sugar Land coordinator. Please contact her
by email ([email protected]) to be placed on her list. We will be using the Orthodox Study Bible (required)
as our primary resource. In addition, Farley’s commentary, Universal Truth, will also be used to guide us, but it is
not required. Irene Cassis will order enough copies for the anticipated attendees in all three sessions.
Come one, come all. I am looking forward to seeing all of you again and engaging in fruitful discussions.
+Fr. Demetri
The Annunciator
Page 3
Young Adult Ministry
The Young Adult Ministry of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral is a dynamic, young adult driven
ministry, under the pastoral care of the AGOC clergy, which seeks to engage Orthodox young adults with one
another in genuine Christian fellowship, while developing a deeper and prayerful communion with our Lord and
Savior Jesus Christ. We are excited to announce the upcoming events and look forward to seeing as many young
adults as possible at all of our events.
Thursday, September 22nd, 6:30pm Paraklesis followed by Dinner at local restaurant
AGOC Saint George Chapel
Saturday, October 15th, 6pm
Great Vespers, followed by Dinner at local restaurant
St. George Antiochian Church, 5311 Mercer St, Houston
Thursday, October 27th, 6:30pm
Museum Happy Hour, Fine Arts! Fine Dining! Fine Wine!
MFAH, 1001 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005 ‘FREE Entry’
November 18th and 19th
Austin Trip & Special Tour of Holy Archangels Monastery
Monastery trip and audience with Geronda Dositheos.
More information to follow.
Sunday, December 4th, 5pm
Christmas Party, Merry Christmas Y’all!
Chris Katerinakis Home
Saturday, January 21st, 7pm
Bowlmor, RSVP to Anna at [email protected].
925 Bunker Hill Rd, Houston, TX 77024
Through the prayers of the Holy Saints of God Porphyrios and Paisios,
who transformed the lives of countless young adults, intercede with
Christ our God to bless this worthy ministry and to enlighten and
protect our pious and faithful Orthodox Christian young adults so they
too may forever emanate the Divine Light of Christ to all.”
For more information about OCF or YAM and to be added to our email list for event updates, please contact
Father Christopher at [email protected] or call the Cathedral Office at 713.526.5377.
“As the Father sends me, so I send you”
(continued from page 1)
in Christ through the mystery of living an attentive and genuine life within the Church. Doing this will bring
us and our family to a healthy balance, it will give us confidence that when we place our focus on the Lord and
place our trust in Him, all things are possible. I truly believe that Christ has “sent” and placed each of us here at
Annunciation for a reason and purpose, so that we can be His witness in the world and lead others to Christ.
+Father Michael
Page 4 The Annunciator
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I encourage all of our Annunciation families to consider placing your faith and church at a higher level. When we are tired,
we still manage to come to church. When we have a short break, we take the time to pray. When a ministry is offered to our
children, we seriously consider setting aside time and allow our children to participate in them. “Let the little children come
to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 19:14
I look forward to the coming Ecclesiastical New Year and I pray that our youth will continue to grow in their faith.
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
FAITH This is the ministry to newly baptized infants and toddlers, and their parents.
For further information or to request to be signed up for our e-mail lists please contact Father Gabriel Gadah at [email protected]
or call 832-242-9261.
The Annunciator
Page 5
Raising Kids in Today’s World
Irene Cassis, Director of Religious Education
Religious Education
Christian parents today face greater challenges than ever
before in trying to raise moral, sensitive and Godly children.
It’s best to begin early, because it has been said, “It is easier
to form a child than to reform him when he’s grown.” There
are many references in the Bible about teaching children and
most are directed to parents about teaching their own children.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 says “These commandments that I give
you today...impress them on your children...talk about them...
at home...as you walk along the road...when you lie down and
get up.” What makes parenting more difficult is that the world
does not always embrace Christian values. Certain music,
movies, videos and other media have a profound and negative
influence upon the values and attitudes of our youth. However,
the influence parents have on their children is great. The late Dr.
John L. Boojamra, Director of Orthodox Christian Education
Commission, wrote, “Many sociological studies… affirm that
the influence of the family far exceeds the traditional claims
that the family is a model in the formative years and that its
influence is far greater than any influence that peers might
have.” (Foundations for Christian Education, p. 72) However,
time, energy, patience and love must be invested in caring for
and overseeing the spiritual development of children. After all,
their life depends on it!
We can make a lasting difference in our children’s lives when
we, as parents, get in touch with our personal relationship with
Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior through the Church. Some
might wonder what their personal relationship with Jesus
Christ has to do with Church. Jesus Christ is the head of the
Church. He established the Church. It is through the Church
and the Sacraments that we are able to come together as Body
of Christ, remembering what Jesus did for us. It is a way of
coming into the presence of God offering praise, thanks and
worship to Him.
Both the family and the Church are engaged in an interdependent
relationship or a partnership in providing a foundation for the
spiritual life of children. This is why it is important to attend the
Divine Liturgy as a family each Sunday morning to experience
God’s presence and action in our lives. What a child can learn
by experiencing worship with his parents will give him the
foundation upon which his life will be based.
Recent studies (Barna) reveal some alarming information about
trends that have arisen in youth culture. Just to mention a few:
Up to 59% of young people who have grown up in Christian
churches are absent and continue to leave the church in record
numbers. The greatest reasons and challenge to Christian
churches by far (86%) is the “busyness” of youth; Another
surprising reason is parents’ lack of interest (41%). The
breakdown of families also plays a role in these trends (31%).
St. Paul reminds parents, “And you, fathers, do not provoke
your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and
admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). Parenting isn’t that
easy, so we must work hard at it. A lack of interest on the part
of parents is not an option.
Youth themselves display a lack of interest in their
involvement in the church. Their lack of commitment may
suggest that relationships and engagement in church are not
reaching sufficient depth. But how can youth build meaningful
relationships when they don’t come to Church enough to get to
make meaningful relationships? This information should give
all of us, parents, clergy, Sunday Church School teachers and
youth workers time to pause, digest and reflect on how we can
keep young people in the Church. Our attitude cannot be that
that young people must come to us; we must go out after them
to meet them where they are. Parents first, those who are part of
the Church and especially those who work with young people--clergy, Sunday Church School teachers, and youth workers
have to open the eyes of our youth to see the Church and what
it has to offer them and all of us which is paradise. That’s what
we all hunger for, something the world cannot provide.
Annunciation Greek Orthdox Cathedral Sunday
Church School
September 1st is the beginning of the New Church Year.
Sunday Church School begins September 11th immediately
following the 9 am Divine Liturgy, and ends 12:00 pm. Sunday
Church School is offered for 2 Year Olds (by September 1st)
through Adults. Come and learn more about your faith.
The Junior Choir is for kids from the first grade through High
School. They sing the 9 am Divine Liturgy every week and
learn the hymns of the Church and the Divine Liturgy. All they
have to do is come up front a few minutes before 9 am! Pam
and Jim Gaspar, Connie Koinis, Pauline Koinis, and Kalliopi
Podaridis are our Junior Choir Directors and they welcome the
children.
Adult Classes Offered on Sunday morning
immediately following the 9 am Divine Liturgy
Orthodoxy 101 (Adults), Room 224, knowledgeable
facilitators, classes begin immediately following the 9:00
am Divine Liturgy and end 12:00 pm. This course is an
introduction to the Orthodox Church, its faith and life that is
required for those who are seeking to become Orthodox; but also
recommended for Orthodox Christians who would like to know
Page 6 The Annunciator
more about their faith. Those who will be taking the course as
one of the requirements for converting to the Faith are asked to
complete the Sunday Church School Registration Form http://
agoc.org/ministries/religiouseducation/registration. You are
also asked to purchase the publication entitled, Introducing the
Orthodox Church Its Faith and Life by Anthony M. Coniaris
and the Orthodox Study Bible from the AGOC Bookstore or
the Religious Education Office, Room 141. For additional
information contact Irene Cassis at [email protected] or
Greg Halvatzis at ([email protected]).
Theology Through the Fathers’ Eyes (Adults), Room 228,
Dr. Jonathan Zecher, classes begin immediately following
the 9:00 am Divine Liturgy and end 12:00 pm. This class
would consist of directed reading and discussion of selected
texts of Patristic literature to highlight certain themes of
Eastern Orthodox belief and practice. Discussion of these texts
will be focused primarily on how the words of the Fathers can
be relevant and inspirational in our lives now.
Bible Study (Adults), Room 226, Father Gabriel Gadah,
classes begin immediately following the 9:00 am Divine
Liturgy and end 12:00 pm. A study and discussion of the
Old Testament where the story of God’s dealings with ancient
Israel from approximately 2000 B.C. until the time of Jesus;
contains, as its central message, God’s promise to save mankind
and the world through the “anointed one” (Messiah, Christ) of
Israel. Through our studies, we will learn how to apply the Old
Testament to our daily lives and the life of the Church.
More Calendar Events…
August 27, 12-3 pm: Sunday Church School Teachers & Staff
In-service Meeting. We will begin with lunch followed by two
presentations on Gathering Kids and Families to Worship and
Sunday Church School by Sofia Petrou, a lifetime educator,
and a presentation by Greg Halvatzis on The Holy and Great
Council of the Orthodox Church which recently took place on
the island of Crete.
September 11, 2016 Sunday Church School begins…Did
you register your kids online?
November 11-13, 2016
Ages 11-18,
Southern Region Fall Retreat,
Pine Cove Outback Retreat Center,
Columbus, Texas.
December 11, 2016 Sunday Church School Christmas
Program, 12 pm, in the Cathedral.
December 25, 2016Feast of the Nativity of Christ NO Sunday Church School
January 1, 2017
New Year’s Day/Feast Day of St. Basil /
Circumcision of Jesus Christ –
NO Sunday Church School
January 13-16, 2017Ages 11-18, Basketball Event Weekend,
Dallas, TX (Martin Luther King)
February 26, 2017Grades 7-9, Parish St. John
Chrysostom Oratorical Festival,
small Martel Hall.
March 3-5, 2017
Ages 11-18, Southern Region Lenten
Retreat, Sky Ranch, Van, Texas
March 5, 2017
Grades 10-12, Parish St. John
Chrysostom Oratorical Festival,
small Martel Hall.
March 17-19, 2017 Ages 11-18, 2017 St. John Chrysostom
Metropolis Oratorical Festival, hosted by
St. Demetrios Church, Fort Worth, Texas.
March 19, 2017
Grades 5-6, Elementary St. John
Chrysostom Oratorical Festival,
small Martel Hall.
March 26, 2017
Grades 3-4, Elementary St. John
Chrysostom Oratorical Festival,
small Martel Hall.
April 2, 2017
Grades K-2, Elementary St. John
Chrysostom Oratorical Festival,
small Martel Hall.
http://agoc.org/ministries/religiouseducation/registration
Take some time to visit the AGOC Bookstore. Open during
the week until 4:00 pm and Sundays after the Divine Liturgies.
Many new publications, unique gifts, gold and silver baptismal
crosses, icons, and much more! Ted Snyder & Carol Vartian
will be more than happy to help you!
October 6-9, 2016
50th GREEK FESTIVAL!
October 9, 2016
NO Sunday Church School (Last day of
the Greek Festival)
St Moses was asked, ‘What should a man do in all
the temptations and evil thoughts that come upon
him?’ The old man said to him, ‘He should weep and
implore the goodness of God to come to his aid, and
he will obtain peace if he prays with discernment. For
it is written, "With the Lord on my side I do not fear.
What can man do to me?" (Ps. i 18.6)
The Annunciator
Page 7
AGOCCollege
College
Graduates
AGOC
Graduates
20162016
AGOC College Graduates 2016
AGOC College Graduates 2016
AGOC College Graduates 2016
Alexia Sitaras, Yiannis Georgeton, Anastasia Koinis, Nicholas Koinis, Fr. Michael, Stuart Makris, Yannis
Minetos, Stephanie Padley, Dean Petrou
Alexia Alexia
Sitaras,
Yiannis
Georgeton,
Anastasia
Koinis,
Nicholas
Koinis,
Fr. Fr.
Michael,
Stuart
Makris,
Yannis
AlexiaSitaras,
Sitaras,
Yiannis
Georgeton,
Anastasia
Koinis,
Nicholas
Koinis,
Fr.Stuart
Michael,
Stuart
Makris, Yannis
Yiannis
Georgeton,
Anastasia
Koinis,
Nicholas
Koinis,
Michael,
Makris,
Yannis
Minetos,
Stephanie
Padley,
Dean
Petrou
Minetos,
Stephanie
Padley,
Dean
Petrou
Minetos,
Stephanie
Padley,
Dean
Petrou
Alexia Sitaras, Yiannis Georgeton, Anastasia Koinis, Nicholas Koinis, Fr. Michael, Stuart Makris, Yannis
Minetos, Stephanie Padley, Dean Petrou
AGOC High School Graduates 2016
AGOC
High
School
Graduates
2016
AGOC
High
School
Graduates
2016 2016
AGOC
School
Graduates
AGOC
HighHigh
School
Graduates
2016
Alexia Angelides, Katherine Grace Catechis, Kaliope Cokinos, Dean Kaitson, Fr. Michael, Macie Mateja,
Iason Onisiphorou, Maria Pappas, Yianni Teas, Christina Tsoucalas
Alexia Angelides, Katherine Grace Catechis, Kaliope Cokinos, Dean Kaitson, Fr. Michael, Macie Mateja,
Iason
Onisiphorou,
Maria
Pappas,
Yianni
Teas,
Christina
Tsoucalas
Angelides,
Katherine
Grace
Catechis,
Kaliope
Cokinos,
Dean
Kaitson,
Michael,
Macie
Mateja,
AlexiaAlexia
Angelides,
Katherine
Grace
Catechis,
Kaliope
Cokinos,
Dean
Kaitson,
Fr.Fr.
Michael,
Macie
Mateja,
Onisiphorou,
Maria
Pappas,
Yianni
Teas,
ChristinaTsoucalas
Tsoucalas
IasonIason
Onisiphorou,
Maria
Pappas,
Yianni
Teas,
Christina
Alexia Angelides, Katherine Grace Catechis, Kaliope Cokinos, Dean Kaitson, Fr. Michael, Macie Mateja,
Iason Onisiphorou, Maria Pappas, Yianni Teas, Christina Tsoucalas
Page 8 The Annunciator
Annunciation Greek Language and Culture School News
Katerina Kontogeorgaki, Director
Dear Parishioners,
Our school had another successful academic year filled with wonderful cultural events.
On Sunday March 27th, we celebrated the Greek Independence Day, 25 March 1821. Our students, dressed in
the traditional costumes, performed poems, dances, and songs. The event was well attended and we all had the
opportunity to honor the Greek History and feel pride for our children and our heritage.
Our school had the End of the Year Celebration and Graduation on May 20th. This year, seven students
received their graduation diplomas. I would like to congratulate: Alkiviades Boukas, Christos Georgiadis, Anastasia
Mantzakos, Georgios Mikos, Mary Mikos, Artemis Melania Postolos, and Michael Skaribas on their graduation and
on their effort and dedication to the study of the Greek Language all these years. Congratulations and all the best for
your future. As we say in Greek: «και εις ανώτερα».
During the celebration, the students performed poems, songs and short plays. Their performance highlighted their
achievements in mastering the Greek language and also their love for the Greek music. The students of 3rd and 4th
grade captivated us with joy and optimism as they sang “Trava Mpros” (Lets go Forward), and the sweet voices of
the girls of the advanced levels made us feel all emotional and nostalgic when they sang “Chartino to Feggaraki”
(Paper Moon).
I would like to thank and congratulate our music team who accompanied our students in this event: Mrs. Tatiana
Zakolikou, the music teacher, Dr. Georgios Vroulis who played the accordion, and Konstantinos Varvarezos who
played the bouzouki, recorder and piano.
In addition, I would like to thank all our wonderful and dedicated teachers: Mrs. Elissavet Vrettos, Mrs. Poppy
Paddley, Mrs. Elena Pappadopoulou, Mrs. Dimitra Tsioufi, Mrs. Maro Yuanidis, and Mrs. Gina Liapis.
The new school year starts on September 16th with the blessing from our priest. Our first major cultural event
will be the celebration of the OXI Day on Friday October 28th. Please, join us as we celebrate Greece’s heroic fight
during the Second World War.
Finally, I would like to discuss our program for adults. We offer Modern Greek Language classes for every level:
Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced. The classes take place every Tuesday at 6:30pm. Adult classes will start on
September 27th. We encourage you to attend our classes and see for yourselves how exciting it is to learn the Greek
language.
Please, contact me for more information about the children and adult programs, our upcoming cultural events, and
different ways to help and support the Greek School.
Best regards and Kalo Kalokairi!
Katerina Kontogeorgaki,
School Director, [email protected]
The Annunciator
ANNUNCIATION GREEK LANGUAGE & CULTURE SCHOOL
ANNUNCIATION
ANNUNCIATION
GREEK
GREEK
LANGUAGE
LANGUAGE
& CULTURE
& CULTURE
SCHOOL
SCHOOL
Greek Independence Day Celebration
Greek
Greek
Independence
Independence
Day Celebration
Day Celebration
End of the Year Celebration and Graduation
End of
End
theofYear
the Year
Celebration
Celebration
and Graduation
and Graduation
Christos Georgiadis, Alkiviades Boukas, Georgios Mikos, Mary Mikos, Artemis Melania Postolos,
ChristosChristos
Georgiadis,
Georgiadis,
Alkiviades
Alkiviades
Boukas, Boukas,
GeorgiosGeorgios
Mikos, Mary
Mikos,
Mikos,
MaryArtemis
Mikos, Artemis
MelaniaMelania
Postolos,Postolos,
Anastasia Matzakos, Michael Skaribas, and Katerina Kontogeorgaki, Director
Anastasia
Anastasia
Matzakos,
Matzakos,
MichaelMichael
Skaribas,
Skaribas,
and Katerina
and Katerina
Kontogeorgaki,
Kontogeorgaki,
DirectorDirector
Page 9
Page 10 The Annunciator
Annunciation Cathedral 2017
Preserving Our Past While Expanding our Future
MAJOR UPDATE - August 28th 2016
We are well on our way to raising the funds necessary for this project with current pledges (as of August
24th, 2016) of $9.96 million, leaving $2.54 million needed to reach our $12.5 million goal, we need your
help!! We currently have pledges from approximately 126 families and, as with our last major
redevelopment campaign in 2000, we would like to have at least 500 families make pledges. To make it
as easy as possible to give, pledges can be paid in a variety of ways – by check, credit card or with
securities - over a period of up to five years if desired. You will notice a list of pledged donors published
in the weekly bulletin. Please consider making your commitment so we can achieve 100 new family
pledges per month. At that rate we will reach our goal of over 500 families pledging to the campaign
before the Fall Assembly!!
Our website has been updated with new information including the proposed floor plans and some
spectacular renderings of the design. Please visit www.AGOC2017.org for all project information.
Additionally, a representative of the committee will be in Martel Hall after Liturgy on Sundays to answer
questions.
A list of the families that have already made pledges is included – hurry and get on the list!!
Steward:
Exonarthex:
Narthex:
Choir:
Nave:
Altar:
Dome:
Pledge Levels
0-9K
Goal: Many
10 - 24 K
Goal: 100
25 - 49 K
Goal: 40
50 - 99 K
Goal: 20
100 - 249 K
Goal: 20
250 - 749 K
Goal: 9
750k - 2 Mln Goal: 5
Have: 42
Have: 28
Have: 11
Have: 11
Have: 16
Have: 4
Have: 5
The Annunciator
Page 11
ANNUNCIATION CATHEDRAL 2017
FAITH RAISING GOAL OF 500+ Families - $12.5 MILLION
PLEDGED AS OF August 24th 2016 – 126 FAMILIES - $9.96 MILLION
Anonymous
Anonymous
Anonymous
Anonymous
Dr. Michelle and Joshua Agrons
Jack Alford
Stephanie and Rafa Alvarez
Kimberly and Demetrios Anaipakos
Seva and John Anaipakos
The Angelides Family
Barbara Armani
Pamela and William Basedow
Maria and John Anthony Botti
Georgia and Chris Butta
Martine Carr
Barbara and Chris Catechis
Marian and Spyros Catechis
Page and Gregory Cokinos
Adonia and Kevin Cokinos
Rhonda and Michael Cokinos
Ellen and Paige Cokinos
Joann and William Crassas
Zoetsa and John J. Dale
Elise and Demetri Dale
Kathy and Marko Dasigenis
Cindy and Fote Demeris
Chrissy and Stathy Demeris
Patricia and Michael Dewey
Elaine and William Dupre
Renate Elgohary
Georgette Faris
Constance and John Fedigan
Laura and Dimitri Fetokakis
Julie and Jimmy Fikaris
Deborah Hadjes Funti and Vasili Funti
Erasmia and John Gardner
Pamela and James Gaspar
Robby Grivas
Marlene and Michael Grivon
Marie and Gregory Halvatzis
Koula Hanges and Tina de Quevedo
Elaine and Stephen Harris
Salma and Andy Hartley
Maria and Chris Pappas
Denise and Charles Hazen
Kathy and Dean Pappas
Marti and Andrew Iatridis
Chrysanthie and Dennis Pappas
Angie and Chris Kaitson
Vicky and Harris Pappas
Dr. Maria Gasi and Dr. Ioannis Kakadiaris
Konstantinos, Kristen, and Alexander Pappas
Jason Kambourelis
Mary Pappas
Dana Kantalis
Natasha Pappas
Maria and Pakis Kantalis
Tessie Pappas and Family
Karen and John Kiappes
Marcus Payavla
Rena and Michael Koinis
Jane and Harry Pefanis
Pauline and Theodore Koinis
Philoptochos Society
Eleni and Nicolas Kyriazis
Fran and Bob Pond
George Lake
Nicole and George Postolos
Fr. Michael and Presv. Renee Lambakis
Evelyn Fotiades Poulos
Joan Lambron
Mary Kay and Michael Poulos
Nicholas Lambron
Mary Poulos and Ann Poulos
Thalia and John Leonard
Rita and Pete Poulos
Angie and Constantine Liollio
Poutous Collision and Mechanical
Antonia and Gilbert Love
Nicole and Martin Rubio
Michael Macris
Carol and Andrew Savas
Dr. Barbara and John Manousso
Marie and Capt. Konstantinos Selinidis
Anna and Mike Mateja
Ekaterina and Konstantin Sermyagin
The Mathews Family
Ann Marie and Nicholas Servos
Kris and Richard McGee and Family
Georgia and Michael Shebay
The Michaels and Onisiphorou Families
Harry Simeonides
Denny Michalopulos
Helen Solomos
George N. Mickelis and Family
Georgia and Scott Souders
Louise and Gary Moss
Pat Stamos
Gloria and Dennis Moustakis
Elyse and Rocky Stevens
Apostolos Moustakis
Fr. Demetrios and Presv. Joana Tagaropulos
Maria and Tim Newton
Chris Tomasides
Bonita and Constantine Pamphilis
Kiki and Nicholas Tratras
Kiki and Mike Pantazis
Sophia and George Varcados
Thomasine and Nicholas Pantazis
Maria and Jack Varcados
The Pantos Family
Demetra and Dr. Carl Vartian
Christine Papadakes
Mary Verges
C.N. and Maria Papadopoulos Charitable Foundation
Paula and Frank Vlahakos
Anastasia and Kosta Papasideris
Paul Voinis
Dr. Heleni Papastathopoulou and
Nicol and Michael Voutsinas
Dr. Vassilios Tzouanas
Stacie and Marc Wade
Katia and Anastasios Papavasiliou
Margie Wedemeyer
Christina and Petros Papazis
Stacey and Larry Wooden
Joni and John Zavitsanos
Page 12 The Annunciator
“Philoptochosing”
Marie Halvatzis, Philoptochos President
Where can you invent a new verb, have Miss America sing to you, celebrate the Divine Liturgy in the Grand
Ole Opry, learn about the realities of human trafficking, prepare several thousand meals for the hungry while
getting to know hundreds of women from all over the United States? The answer is at the 2016 Biennial
Philoptochos Convention where four hundred delegates celebrated 85 years of philanthropy, fellowship, and
faith in action.
As you can imagine, planning such an event is a big task requiring a great deal of time. So much time that
the teenage son of one of the convention chairs invented a word, “philoptochosing” to describe what his
mother spent her time doing!
The convention was five days of sharing and learning how to be a more effective “friend of the poor” and
the philanthropic arm of the Church. Over the past ten years, we have, through our national organization,
distributed in excess of 48 million dollars to a number of worthwhile causes. While monetary support to
charitable endeavors is important, hands on projects are the essence of Philoptochos. Chapters from all over
the country shared their many, diverse projects that benefit a wide variety of causes. Early on Thursday
morning of the convention, delegates packaged thousands of meals through “Feeding Children Everywhere”
to be distributed in the Nashville area. Speakers from Thistle Farms and Magdalene Homes discussed the
realities of human trafficking and how we can help its victims.
On a lighter note, nine women, one from each Metropolis, were honored for their dedication to Philoptochos
and the Church. Our parish’s Eleni Kyriazis was one of the women given this AGAPE Award for her years
of hard work and for exhibiting the spirit of Philoptochos. Miss America 2016, Betty Cantrell, sang at the
Awards breakfast and later spoke to the delegates about her experiences competing and winning the title of
Miss America. Betty is of Greek ancestry and a member of the Greek Orthodox Church where she sings in
her parish choir.
Through the stewardship and hard work of our 26,000+ members, we were able to present checks to
representatives of these organizations: St. Basil’s Academy, $100,000; Hellenic College/Holy Cross School
of Theology, $75,000; and International Orthodox Christian Charities, West Bank Project, $35,000, and West
Virginia Flood Relief Project, $25,000.
Our chapter delegates, Stacey Wooden, Maria Kantalis, and Marie Halvatzis left with renewed enthusiasm
and appreciation for the importance of the mission of Philoptochos. Our chapter board of directors is busy
planning the upcoming year and hope each of you will support our work in any way you can. Membership is
open to all women in the Church and men can be associate members. Details about the upcoming year will
be found in the bulletin on Sundays and, if you are on our e-mail distribution list, in periodic e-mails. Want
to be added to the list? Contact Marie Halvatzis at [email protected].
43rd Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress / Philoptochos National Convention
Eleni Kyriazis
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Annunciator
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- July 4-7, 2016
43rd Biennial Clergy-Laity
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Eleni Kyriazis receives AGAPE Award
Page 13
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AGOC Sunday Church School Attendance
Awards 2016
years is truly inspirational!
and her legacy of agape in all that she has
done for so many people for so many
years is truly inspirational!
AGOC Sunday Church School Attendance Awards 2016
AGOC
SundayChurch
Church School
School Attendance
2016
AGOC
Sunday
AttendanceAwards
Awards
2016
AGOC Sunday Church School Attendance Awards 2016
AGOC Sunday Church School Attendance Awards 2016
AGOC Sunday Church School Attendance Awards 2016
Dimitri Teas (Grade 2) received Perfect
Attendance Award: 32 Sundays 2015-2016.
Amalia Charping (Grade 1) received
Outstanding Attendance Award: (3 or less
Dimitri Teas (Grade 2) received Perfect
absences). Amalia and Dimitri with Fr.
Attendance
Award:
32
Dimitri
(Grade
2) Sundays
received 2015-2016.
Perfect
MichaelTeas
and Irene
Cassis.
Amalia
Charping
(Grade
1) received
Attendance
Award:
32 Sundays
2015-2016.
Dimitri Teas
(Grade 2)Award:
received
Perfect
Outstanding
Attendance
(3 or
less
Amalia Charping
(Grade 1) received
Attendance
Award:
32
Sundays
2015-2016.
absences).
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(Gradeand
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Perfect
Outstanding
Attendance
Award:with
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Michael
Irene
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32
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absences).
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and
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Fr.
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(Grade
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Attendance
(3 or less
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Attendance
32 Sundays
2015-2016.
absences).
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withPerfect
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received
Michael and Irene Cassis.
Attendance Award: 32 Sundays 2015-2016.
Amalia Charping (Grade 1) received
Outstanding Attendance Award: (3 or less
absences). Amalia and Dimitri with Fr.
Michael and Irene Cassis.
In spite of our sinfulness, in spite of the darkness surrounding our souls, the Grace of the Holy Spirit, conferred by
baptism in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, still shines in our hearts with the inextinguishable light of Christ ... and when the sinner turns to the way of repentance the light smooths away every trace of the
sins committed, clothing the former sinner in the garments of incorruption, spun of the Grace of the Holy Spirit. It is
this acquisition of the Holy Spirit about which I have been speaking.
St. Seraphim of Sarov
Page 14 The Annunciator
43rd Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress / Philoptochos
National Convention - Nashville, TN - July 4-8, 2016
Fr. Michael Lambakis presents $50,000 check from Annunciation Cathedral Parish to Fr. Christopher
Metropolus, President, Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, at the ClergyLaity Congress in Nashville, Tennessee. L-R Delegates and attendees Mike Koinis, Pauline Koinis, Ted
Koinis, Fr. Lambakis, Fr. Metropulos, Cindy Demeris, Fote Demeris, Pakis Kantalis.
AGOC delegates and attendees at the Philoptochos National Convention and Clergy-Laity Congress in
Nashville, TN. L-R Pauline Koinis, Stacey Wooden, Mike Koinis, Marian Catechis, Maria Kantalis,
Fr. Michael Lambakis, His Eminence Metropolitan Isaiah of Denver, Eleni Kyriazis, Nick Kyriazis,
Marie Halvatzis, Martha Stefanidakis, Abbess Paraskevi and Sisters of St. Paraskevi Monastery.
The Annunciator
Page 15
SENIOR CITIZENS
Kiki Pantazis & Paula Phocas
Hi, everyone.
I hope you all are doing well.
We all took a little rest after we finished a year full of fun and activities on June 7.
Now until October 9 we all have another task. GET READY FOR OUR GOLDEN YEAR FESTIVAL. This is
really very amazing especially for all of us who have been here since we started the first one!!! The cooking is
very much under way and a lot has been done thanks to all of you and our young people who religiously come
out to help. Some come after work and don’t go home to spend time with their family, some come on Saturday
and don’t do their house work and everything else that needs to be done. That is true dedication and love for
our church and our community. All of us should be proud. This is a very exciting time of the year and we all
work very hard to have another successful Festival.
On October 18 we will resume our Senior Citizens’ program and all the planning is done and the new schedule
is ready and full. All the dates for next year are taken, thanks to all of our sponsors who always support our
ministry. WE THANK YOU!
Our schedule and hosts for the fall of 2016/2017:
OCTOBER 18 - Peter & Nina Peropoulos
NOVEMBER 1 - Pete & Alexandra Santikos
NOVEMBER 15 - Thanksgiving Luncheon - Mr. George Kostas
NOVEMBER 20 - Sr. Citizens’ Memorial - we host the fellowship coffee after 2nd Liturgy
DECEMBER 6 - Niki Vaughn & Maria Papasozomenos
DECEMBER 20 - Christmas Luncheon - Damon & Cindy Diamantaras
We serve good tasty meals. We work with you to create a menu that you like. Our Lenten meals are great and
very tasty too. We always look for sponsors and if anyone is interested please contact me, Kiki Pantazis, at
713-340-1113 or Paula Phocas at 713-661-5017. We can celebrate any occasion -- birthday, anniversary, or the
memory of a loved one.
I hope you can attend all these meetings and have fun with us.
GUIDELINES:
Everyone who is 55 years and older and is a member of the Annunciation Cathedral, please join us in the Seniors’ program and enjoy the fun and the fellowship our program provides. Out of town visitors are welcome
any time at any age.
You all stay well and if you can work come down to the church and help and enjoy a good lunch and great fellowship with us. Have a great rest of the summer and I will see you in October.
Page 16 The Annunciator
Welcome Committee
Have you ever been “new” to the church? It’s such a great feeling to be warmly welcomed! The Welcome
Committee of Annunciation Cathedral will help visitors learn about our church as we ask for their contact
information. We will continue to give a small golden lapel pin Cross to the Newcomers of our church. If you
notice someone wearing the Newcomers’ Cross, please greet them and help them in any way you can.
During the past year, you may have noticed many of our Welcome Committee volunteers wearing their name
badge every Sunday. Since we have such a large community, it is difficult to learn names and make friendships
easily. The badges are helpful to our visitors and newcomers so they can more easily become acquainted with
some members of the church.
Welcome Committee volunteers are often asked to answer various questions: Where is the bookstore? What time
is Sunday School? Can I get a priest to give me a call so I can learn about becoming an Orthodox Christian?
Who can tell me more about Philoptochos? Can I take Greek classes? Lots of questions! And of course, there
are questions regarding our Orthodox Christian faith. We have lots of brochures and pamphlets that are available
at the Welcome table each week. These brochures are free, and if you see any you would like to read, just stop
by and pick up the ones you want, whether you are a newcomer or you have been a member of Annunciation
Cathedral forever!
Join the Welcome Committee this year. We especially need volunteers to serve after the second Liturgy. Sign
up to help greet Visitors and Newcomers at the Welcome Table. Volunteers are needed to help during the coffee
hour for about 20 minutes each Sunday after first or second Liturgy.
For questions or to volunteer, call Marti Iatridis at 469-878-4544 or Andy Iatridis 469-939-6132.
Email: [email protected]
Istoto
Coming
Santa
IsSanta
Coming
Town! to Town!
Santa Is
Coming
Town!
"Breakfast with
Santa"
"Breakfast
"Breakfast
with
Santa" with Santa"
Saturday,
December
3,3,
2016
(9:00
a.m.
12:00
pm)pm)
Saturday, December
2016
(9:00
a.m.
– 12:00
Saturday,
December
3,– 2016
(9:00
a.m. – 12:00 pm)
Martel Hall
Martel
Hall
Martel
Hall
Please join us for breakfast, crafts, and pictures with Santa.
Please join usPlease
for breakfast,
and pictures
withand
Santa.
join us crafts,
for breakfast,
crafts,
pictures with Santa.
All proceeds are donated to Charities that benefit Children.
All proceedsAll
are proceeds
donated toare
Charities
thattobenefit
Children.
donated
Charities
that benefit Children.
GOYA, we always appreciate and need your help!
(Certificates
of Community
Service
GOYA,
we always
appreciate
andoffered)
need your help!
GOYA,
we
always
appreciate
and need your help!
(Certificates
offered)
Sponsored by of
theCommunity
Daughters ofService
Penelope
(Certificates of Community Service offered)
For questionsby
please
contact:
Sponsored
the Daughters
of Penelope
Kathryn Kinalidis
- 832-758-1794
[email protected]
Sponsored
by the
Daughters of Penelope
For
questions
contact:[email protected]
Linda
Makris - please
713-478-4748
Gloria Moustakis
[email protected]
Kathryn
Kinalidis
-713-857-7623
832-758-1794
[email protected]
For– questions
please
contact:
Linda Makris Kathryn
- 713-478-4748
[email protected]
Kinalidis - 832-758-1794 [email protected]
Gloria Moustakis
– 713-857-7623
[email protected]
Linda
Makris - 713-478-4748
[email protected]
The Annunciator
Page 17
CATHEDRAL CALENDAR
September 1 - November 30, 2016
SEPTEMBER_____________________________
Thursday, September 1 - Ecclesiastical New Year
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
th
Sunday, September 4 - 11 Sunday of Matthew
Orthros 8:15 am / Divine Liturgy 9:30 am
Monday, September 5 - Labor Day
Cathedral Office Closed
Tuesday, September 6
OCF Lunch at University of Houston, 12:00-2:00 pm
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 6:00 pm
Thursday, September 8 - Nativity of the Theotokos
Orthros / Divine Liturgy
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
Friday, September 9
FAITH Ministry 10:00 am, Cathedral
Parents Night Out 7:00 pm, Bowlmor, 925 Bunker Hill Rd.
Divine Liturgy Schedule Beginning September 11
Sundays
Orthros 7:45 am / Divine Liturgies 9:00 & 11:00 am
Sunday Church School following 1st Liturgy until 12 noon
Weekdays
Orthros 8:30 am / Divine Liturgy 9:30 am
Sunday, September 11 - Sunday Before Holy Cross
2 LITURGY SCHEDULE BEGINS /
1st Day of Sunday Church School (SCS)
Orthros 7:45 am / Divine Liturgies 9 & 11 am / SCS
Youth Festival Dancers Practice, after SCS
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 1:00 pm
Monday, September 12
Greek Festival Preparation 9:00 am
Tuesday, September 13
Greek Festival Preparation 9:00 am
OCF Lunch at Rice University 12:00-2:00 pm
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 6:00 pm
Wednesday, September 14 - Elevation of the Holy Cross
Orthros / Divine Liturgy strict fast
Greek Festival Preparation, after Divine Liturgy
Bible Studies Resume 1:00 & 6:30 pm, Room 219
Thursday, September 15
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
Friday, September 16
Greek School 5:00 pm
Saturday, September 17
Greek Festival Preparation 9:00 am
GOYA Kickoff Party 4:00 pm, offsite
Sunday, September 18 - Sunday After Holy Cross
Orthros / Divine Liturgies / SCS
Greek Festival Preparation after Divine Liturgies
Youth Festival Dancers Practice, after SCS
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 1:00 pm
Monday, September 19
Greek Festival Preparation 9:00 am
Tuesday, September 20
Greek Festival Preparation 9:00 am
OCF Lunch at St. Thomas University 12:00-2:00pm
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 6:00 pm
Wednesday, September 21
Greek Festival Preparation 9:00 am
Bible Studies 1:00 & 6:30 pm, Room 219
Thursday, September 22
Greek Festival Preparation 9:00 am
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
YAM Dinner, following Paraclesis, offsite
Friday, September 23
Greek School 5:00 pm
Saturday, September 24
Marriage Preparation Seminar 9:00 am, Martel Hall
Sunday, September 25 - 1st Sunday of Luke
Orthros / Divine Liturgies / SCS
Youth Festival Dancers Practice, after SCS
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 1:00 pm
Tuesday, September 27
OCF Lunch at Houston Baptist U. 12:00-2:00 pm
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 6:00 pm
Philoptochos Kick-Off Meeting 7:00 pm, Small Martel Hall
Page 18 The Annunciator
Wednesday, September 28
Bible Studies 1:00 & 6:30 pm
Wednesday, October 12
Bible Studies 1:00 & 6:30 pm, Room 219
Thursday, September 29
Greek Festival Preparation 9:00 am
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
Thursday, October 13
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
Friday, September 30
SOUVLAKI Preparation 4:00 pm
Greek School 5:00 pm
OCTOBER______________________________
Saturday, October 1
SOUVLAKI Preparation 9:00 am
Youth Festival Dancers Practice 10:00 am
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 12:00 pm
Sunday, October 2 - 2nd Sunday of Luke
Orthros / Divine Liturgies / SCS
SOUVLAKI Preparation, after Divine Liturgies
Youth Greek Festival Dancers Practice, after SCS
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 1:00 pm
Monday, October 3
Festival Pastry Packing 9:00 am
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 6:00 pm
Tuesday, October 4
Festival Pastry Packing 9:00 am
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 6:00 pm
Wednesday, October 5
Greek Festival Preparation 9:00 am
Young Adult Festival Dancers Practice 6:00 pm
Festival Prayer Service 6:00 pm, Cathedral
Thursday, October 6
50th Original Greek Festival 5:00 pm
Friday, October 7
50th Original Greek Festival 11:00 am
Saturday, October 8
50th Original Greek Festival 11:00
Great Vespers 5:00 pm, Cathedral
Sunday, October 9 - 3rd Sunday of Luke
ONE DIVINE LITURGY
Orthros 7:45 am / Divine Liturgy 9:00 am
50th Original Greek Festival 12:00 pm
Friday, October 14
Greek School 5:00 pm
Saturday, October 15
Great Vespers 6:00 pm, at St. George Orthodox Church,
5311 Mercer
YAM Dinner following Vespers, offsite
Sunday, October 16 Sunday of the 7th Ecumenical Council
Orthros / Divine Liturgies / SCS
Tuesday, October 18
Sr. Citizens Meeting & Lunch 10:15 am, Martel Hall
Wednesday, October 19
Bible Studies 1:00 & 6:30 pm, Room 219
Thursday, October 20
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
Friday, October 21
Greek School 5:00 pm
Saturday, October 22
Philoptochos General Meeting 10:30 am,
Small Martel Hall
Sunday, October 23 - 6th Sunday of Luke
Orthros / Divine Liturgies / SCS
Monday, October 24
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Tuesday, October 25
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Wednesday, October 26 - St. Demetrios
Orthros / Divine Liturgy
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation, after Divine Liturgy
Bible Studies 1:00 & 6:30 pm, Room 219
Thursday, October 27
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
YAM Museum Outing 6:30 PM, offsite,
MFAH, 1001 Bissonnett St. (77005)
The Annunciator
Friday, October 28
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Greek School 5:00 pm
Greek School OXI Day Program 6:30 pm, Martel Hall
Sunday, November 13 - 8th Sunday of Luke
ONE DIVINE LITURGY
Orthros 7:45 am / Divine Liturgy 9:00 am / SCS
Fall Parish Assembly 11:00 am, Martel Hall
Sunday, October 30 - 5th Sunday of Luke
Orthros / Divine Liturgies / SCS
Tuesday, November 15
Sr. Citizens Meeting & Lunch 10:15 am, Martel Hall
Monday, October 31
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Wednesday, November 16
Bible Studies 1:00 & 6:30 pm, Room 219
NOVEMBER_____________________________
Thursday, November 17
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
Tuesday, November 1
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Sr. Citizens Meeting & Lunch 10:15 am, Martel Hall
Wednesday, November 2
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Bible Studies 1:00 & 6:30 pm, Room 219
Thursday, November 3
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
Friday, November 4
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Greek School 5:00 pm
Sunday, November 6 - 7th Sunday of Luke
Orthros / Divine Liturgies / SCS
Tuesday, November 8 - Archangels Michael and Gabriel
Orthros / Divine Liturgy
Wednesday, November 9
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Bible Studies 1:00 & 6:30 pm
Thursday, November 10
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Paraclesis 6:30 pm, St. George Chapel
Friday, November 11
Veteran’s Day – Cathedral Office Closed
Greek School 5:00 pm
Saturday, November 12
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Page 19
Friday, November 18
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Greek School 5:00 pm
YAM Austin Trip & Tour of Holy Archangels Monastery
Saturday, November 19
YAM Austin Trip & Tour of Holy Archangels Monastery
Sunday, November 20 - 9th Sunday of Luke
Orthros / Divine Liturgies / SCS
Monday, September 21 Entrance of the Theotokos Into the Temple
Orthros / Divine Liturgy
Thursday, November 24
Thanksgiving Day – Cathedral Office closed
Friday, November 25 - St. Catherine
Orthros / Divine Liturgy
Thanksgiving Day Holiday – Cathedral Office closed
Sunday, November 27 - 13th Sunday of Luke
Orthros / Divine Liturgies / SCS
Tuesday, November 29
Philoptochos Bake Sale Preparation 9:00 am
Wednesday, November 30 - St. Andrew
Orthros / Divine Liturgy
Philoptohos Bake Sale Preparation, after Divine Liturgy
Bible Studies 1:00 & 6:30 pm
Page 20 The Annunciator
REGISTRY
April 1 - August 22, 2016
WEDDINGS
Evangelia Anagnostopoulos and
Lewis Miguel Grell
Sponsor: Gregory Anagnostopoulos
Claire Brighton Baxter and
Andrew John Mazarakis
Sponsor: Akrivi Mazarakis
Arianna Evangelia Gazis and
Dimitri Paul Tagaropulos
Sponsor: Konstandinos Antoniadis
Katiana Kalas Hewitt and
Alex Mark Jennings
Sponsor: Alston Hewitt
Christina Blayke Isaacks and
John Paul Vroulis
Sponsor: George A. Bournias
Camila Silva Rocha Lima and
Christopher Issac Molho
Sponsor: Nicholas Murchison
Jordan Elizabeth Taylor and
Errikos Michael Anagnostopoulos
Sponsors: Renee and Nikolaos
Anagnostopoulos
Athina Evyenia
Parents: Peggy and Victor Aviles
Godparent: Evyenia Dickinson
Zoe Kyriaki
Parents: Karina and Dimetrios Spiliotis
Godparent: Leah Kalas
Stefan Elias (Stefanos)
Parents: Argie and Byron Brame
Godparent: Eleni Ganoti
Kalliopi Sofia
Parents: Maria and Kenneth Turner
Godparent: Nichole Maria Melissas
Theodore Hawkins
Parents: Constantina and Benjamis Carroll
Godparent: Andrew G. Melissas
Christina Isaacks
Godparents: Paul Loupakos and Vicky
M. Pappas
Jett Jordan
Parents: Amber and Tareq Fasheh
Godparents: Emily and George Grivon
Nicholas Kambourelis
Godparent: John Cassis
Margaret Anastasia
Parents: Despina and Juan Mann
Godparent: Catherine Corovessis
George Constantinos
Parents: Panagiota and Costas Minetos
Godparent: Nick Siha
Mialana (Maria)
Parents: Jacqueline and Juan Munoz
Godparent: Michael Harry Mastromichalis
CHRISMATIONS
Alex (Alexandros) Mark Jennings
Sponsor: Tassie Kalas Haney
Judy (Anna) Johnson
Sponsor: Helena Papadopoulos Johnson
Lewis (Elias) Sterling
Sponsor: Robert J. Wise
Gabriel A. Vasquez
Sponsor: Irene Cassis
James Nicholas
Parents: Holly and Paul Paraskevopoulos
FUNERALS
Godparent: George Nicolas Paraskevopoulos
Alexandra Katherine Kaldis Venzke and
Dr. Jack Alford (February 6, 2016)
James Walter Brummett
Athena Maria
Katerina Germanides
Sponsor: William Venzke
Parents: Bethany and Michael Poutous
Fofo Lewis
Godparent: Alexis Poutous Cotton
Theodoros Dimitrios Manolopoulos
Hannah Marie (Bynum) Hauser
Maria Kalogeras Montoya
and Christian Matthew Hauser
Despina Markella
Dr. Nicholas Papadakes
Sponsor: Cesar Canales
Parents: Bethany and Michael Poutous
Fran Pappas
Godparent: Maria Poutous
Kristalin (Cortez) Pardalis and
John G. Pappas
George Pardalis
Woodrow Charles (Constantine)
Gus M. Poutous
Sponsor: Stavros Katsoulis
Parents: Mary and Nicholas Senkel
Kiki Santikos
Godparent: Natalie Senkel Kirklin
Larry Senkel
BAPTISMS
Kathy Stratas
Irene Evelyn
Tony Varvares
Parents: Evelyn Harris Pappas and
Achilleus Constancio
Nickolas George Spiliotis
Parents: Peggy and Victor Aviles
Godparents: Kathy and Marko Dasigenis
Godparent: Evyenia Dickinson
ANNUNCIATION
GREEK ORTHODOX
CATHEDRAL
3511 YOAKUM BOULEVARD
HOUSTON, TEXAS 77006‑4388