Sunday Bulletin 06/20/21

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Sunday, June 20 – 4th Sunday after Pentecost          

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, June 21 – Julian, Martyr       

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Tuesday, June 22 – Eusebius, Bishop-Martyr        

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

Wednesday, June 23 – Agrippina, Martyr   

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

6:30 PM          Vespers

7:30 PM          Divine Liturgy                                Marielle Favale  

8:30 PM          Fire Pit Social

Thursday, June 24 – Birth of John the Baptist (solemn)       

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

8:30 AM          Photina Walk

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, June 25 – Febronia, Venerable Martyr           

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Saturday, June 26 – David of Thessalonica, Venerable       

8:30 AM          Divine Liturgy                 +John Bosek from Nancy Rodriguez

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, June 20 – 5th Sunday after Pentecost         

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy 

PRAYER REQUESTS

Please remember the following people in your prayers: Estella Biedenbender,  Ken Bosak, , Fletes Family: Alicia, Frankie, Layla, Lupita & Veronica, Victoria Flores, Larry Goodwin, Holly Garlow,  Michelle Grana, Virginia Harrington, Jeanne Hart, Michael Hefferon, Rob Hooper, Chris Johnson, Patricia Kurczak,  Irene Lehman, Elizabeth & John Mallas, Dylan Mancia, Toni Martin, Marg Mauro, Juan Gabriel Martinez, Pedro Medina, Mina family: Mila, Diana, Rev. John & Mike,  Shannon O’Neill, Tanya Petach, Casandra Porch, Nicholas, Rodriguez Diane Romano, Paul Saucedo, Kathleen Savko, Robert Stamer, Leanne Steuer, Mary Washko, Dina & Matthew Wiggins,  Carmen Zambrano, Lana Zimmerman, Patrick Zimmerman, Fr. Chris Zugger and all those who serve in the Armed Forces

WEEKLY DEPOSIT

Collection: $1,465.00; Candles: $59.50; Online: $185.00; Church Improvements: $75.00; VC Outreach: $476.00  

Total: $2,260.50 / Attendance: 72

 

EPARCHIAL APPEAL 2021

We are in the midst of this year’s Eparchial Appeal. Funds donated to this appeal will support the various ministries that the Bishop and the Eparchy of Phoenix carry out for the Glory of God and the up-building of the Church. Our goal is to reach 100% participation, so please give any amount you can! Details should have been sent to you by the Eparchy, but if you have not received anything you can contribute anyway by writing “Eparchial Appel” on the memo line of a check to the parish, or donate online at https://ephx.org/st-marys-eparchial-appeal/      Thank you for your generosity!

Thank you to those who have contributed: Anonymous, Chirdon., Clemens, Cook, Davies, Delgado, Golya, Healy, Herrera, Horey F, Horey M, Koman-Keogh, Kopcho B, Michyna, Mina, Mowery, Fr O’Loughlin, O’Neill P, O’Neill S, Onufrak, Parrot, Patzwahl, Petach, Reichert, Richie, Seabright, Sumandra NS, Sumandra S, Tabak, Theisen, Zimmerman PM, and Zimmerman WJ.

Giving Our Whole Selves Over to the Lord

There is a tendency in our culture to separate the mind from the body, as if the mind is who we really are, while our body is merely a machine that we move wherever we want. Even some Christians would go so far as to say that as long as man believes that Jesus is Lord, he is saved, regardless of what he does with his body. But this is not the vision of the human person found in the Sacred Scripture or the tradition of the Church. Instead, the human person is a union of spiritual and physical realities, mind and body, soul and flesh. So, what a man does with his body can be a physical sign of the state of his heart and his progress in the spiritual life. Writing to the Church in Rome, St. Paul says that before faith in Christ, before grace and baptism, the Roman Christians were slaves to sin. St. Paul calls them, and now us as well, to be slaves of God instead, to serve righteousness and holiness with our whole life, our whole person, with our body and our soul.

The Gospel speaks of the Centurion’s faith. A spiritual interpretation of the passage could suggest that when a man turns his heart, and all its thoughts, over to the Lord, he will hand himself over to become a servant of holiness and righteousness and be spiritually healed. If he turns to the Lord often with prayer, and embraces the good thoughts and ignores evil thoughts, he will easily be able to take command of his unruly body with its passions. Just as the Lord performs miracles by the command of His Word, and the centurion commands his soldiers and servants with his word, likewise, we can offer our bodies and our whole life to bear the fruit of sanctification and holiness. We have two choices: we can be slaves to sin and receive the wages of sin, which is death, hell, and spiritual suffering, or we can repent and become slaves to righteousness, be made right before God, and this will lead us into life everlasting.                                                             

From godwithusonline.org

“Let it be done for you as you have believed.” Jesus brought healing to the centurion’s servant when he sought healing. When we have faith and live it out, our Church can continue to share the love and healing of God to the world. A vocation to holy orders or the monastic life brings that to the Church in a special way. Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

 

 

Faith and God’s Love for Us

Today’s Scripture readings speak of faith, which is “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). The Epistle tells us, “now that we have been justified through faith, let us have peace with God.” In today’s world, we desperately need peace. All over the world, and especially our own country, we see civil unrest, riots, disease, injustice, and death. Yet St. Paul says that we Christians “exult in tribulation.” That’s not to say that we are glad these terrible things are happening, but we rejoice because through them God works good: “tribulation produces endurance, and endurance challenge, and challenge hope, and hope does not deceive, for God’s love is poured forth in our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” By suffering, God makes us stronger, better people. Through the gift of faith, we have hope, we can be sure of God’s love for us, and that He has a plan. God is taking care of us, and St. Paul explains why we can be sure of this, saying that, though we would be hesitant to give our lives even for righteous men, Jesus gave His life for us, even though we are sinners!

                                                Find more on today’s readings at godwithusonline.org

Sunday Bulletin 06/13/21

WEEKLY LITURGICAL SCHEDULE

Sunday, June 13 – 3rd Sunday after Pentecost          

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, June 14 – Elisha, Prophet        

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Tuesday, June 15 – Amos, Prophet        

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Wednesday, June 16 – Tychon the Wonderworker, Bishop  

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy                The intentions of Fr. Nathan         

7:30 PM          Firepit Social

Thursday, June 17 – Manuel, Sabel, & Ishmael; Martyrs       

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

8:30 AM          Photina Walk

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, June 18 – Leontius, Martyr          

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Saturday, June 19 – Jude, Apostle        

8:30 AM          Divine Liturgy             +John Bosek from MJ Koman-Keogh  

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, June 20 – 4th Sunday after Pentecost        

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

PRAYER REQUESTS

Please remember the following people in your prayers: Estella Biedenbender,  Ken Bosak, , Fletes Family: Alicia, Frankie, Layla, Lupita & Veronica, Victoria Flores, Larry Goodwin, Holly Garlow,  Michelle Grana, Virginia Harrington, Jeanne Hart, Michael Hefferon, Rob Hooper, Chris Johnson, Patricia Kurczak,  Irene Lehman, Elizabeth & John Mallas, Dylan Mancia, Toni Martin, Marg Mauro, Juan Gabriel Martinez, Pedro Medina, Mina family: Mila, Diana, Rev. John & Mike,  Shannon O’Neill, Tanya Petach, Casandra Porch, Nicholas, Rodriguez Diane Romano, Paul Saucedo, Kathleen Savko, Robert Stamer, Leanne Steuer, Mary Washko, Dina & Matthew Wiggins,  Carmen Zambrano, Lana Zimmerman, Patrick Zimmerman, Fr. Chris Zugger and all those who serve in the Armed Forces

WEEKLY DEPOSIT

Collection: $3,640.00; Candles: $40.00; Online: $485.00; Holy Days: $20.00; Bishop’s Appeal: $200.00; Church Improvements: $120.00; Peter’s Pence: $1250.00; Property Rental: $205.00; Initial Offering: $10.00  

Total: $5,970.00 / Attendance: 62

UPCOMING

-Saturday June 19, 5:15pm – Altar Server Training for any boys or men interested in serving at the altar.

-Sunday June 20– Father’s Day celebration we will be holding a hybrid potluck celebration after the Divine Liturgy on June 20th for Father’s Day. Sign-up sheets are in the small hall

EPARCHIAL APPEAL 2021

We are in the midst of this year’s Eparchial Appeal. Funds donated to this appeal will support the various ministries that the Bishop and the Eparchy of Phoenix carry out for the Glory of God and the up-building of the Church. Our goal is to reach 100% participation, so please give any amount you can! Details should have been sent to you by the Eparchy, but if you have not received anything you can contribute anyway by writing “Eparchial Appel” on the memo line of a check to the parish, or donate online at https://ephx.org/st-marys-eparchial-appeal/      Thank you for your generosity!

Thank you to those who have contributed: Anonymous, Clemens, Cook, Davies, Delgado, Golya, Healy, Herrera, Horey F, Horey M, Kopcho B, Michyna, Mina, Mowery, Fr O’Loughlin, O’Neill P, O’Neill S, Onufrak, Parrot, Patzwahl, Petach, Richie, Seabright, Sumandra NS, Sumandra S, Tabak, Theisen, Zimmerman PM, and Zimmerman WJ.

Faith and God’s Love for Us

Today’s Scripture readings speak of faith, which is “the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). The Epistle tells us, “now that we have been justified through faith, let us have peace with God.” In today’s world, we desperately need peace. All over the world, and especially our own country, we see civil unrest, riots, disease, injustice, and death. Yet St. Paul says that we Christians “exult in tribulation.” That’s not to say that we are glad these terrible things are happening, but we rejoice because through them God works good: “tribulation produces endurance, and endurance challenge, and challenge hope, and hope does not deceive, for God’s love is poured forth in our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” By suffering, God makes us stronger, better people. Through the gift of faith, we have hope, we can be sure of God’s love for us, and that He has a plan. God is taking care of us, and St. Paul explains why we can be sure of this, saying that, though we would be hesitant to give our lives even for righteous men, Jesus gave His life for us, even though we are sinners!

Find more on today’s readings at godwithusonline.org

“Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.” Our Lord challenged and always challenges his followers to be sure to seek his will. Spiritual fathers and mothers can be guides to help others so that we do not love mammon instead of God. Is a life of increased prayer and devotion to God something he is asking you to consider by discerning a vocation to the monastic life, to the priesthood or the diaconate? Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

Divine Light in the Soul

 From Community of Grace, Chapter 5, “Come Take Light”

For today as from a bridal chamber, Christ has shone forth from the tomb, and filled the women with joy, saying Proclaim the glad tidings to the apostles!

–Paschal Matins

In this week’s chapter, a story tells about an Alcoholic named Al. Al is unconvinced about God, but offers a humble and contrite prayer that results in a being of Light removing his sickness and infusing him with divine love. We may not believe this is possible any longer for us; maybe God will only do this for unbelievers. But aren’t we unbelievers in a way when we stop believing that God can hear a sincere prayer and do wonders in our hearts? Challenge yourself to trust again. God can act in us! Offer him sincere prayer! Ask him to rekindle the joy of your salvation!

In Christ,

Sunday Bulletin 6/06/21

Second Sunday after Pentecost

WEEKLY LITURGICAL SCHEDULE

Sunday, June 6 – 2nd Sunday after Pentecost             

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, June 7 – Theodotus, Bishop-Martyr          

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

Tuesday, June 8 – Translation of the Relics of the Great-Martyr Theodore          

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

Wednesday, June 9 – Cyril of Alexandria, Archbishop     

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy            +Fr. Adrian Rosca & Family

Saturday, June 12 – Onuphrius and Peter, Venerables        

8:30 AM          Divine Liturgy           

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, June 13 – 3rd Sunday after Pentecost          

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

PRAYER REQUESTS

Please remember the following people in your prayers: Estella Biedenbender,  Ken Bosak, , Fletes Family: Alicia, Frankie, Layla, Lupita & Veronica, Victoria Flores, Larry Goodwin, Holly Garlow,  Michelle Grana, Virginia Harrington, Jeanne Hart, Michael Hefferon, Rob Hooper, Chris Johnson, Patricia Kurczak,  Irene Lehman, Elizabeth & John Mallas, Dylan Mancia, Toni Martin, Marg Mauro, Juan Gabriel Martinez, Pedro Medina, Mina family: Mila, Diana, Rev. John & Mike,  Shannon O’Neill, Tanya Petach, Casandra Porch, Nicholas, Rodriguez Diane Romano, Paul Saucedo, Kathleen Savko, Robert Stamer, Leanne Steuer, Mary Washko, Dina & Matthew Wiggins,  Carmen Zambrano, Lana Zimmerman, Patrick Zimmerman, Fr. Chris Zugger and all those who serve in the Armed Forces

WEEKLY DEPOSIT

Collection: $1,915.00; Candles: $37.00; Online: $245.00; Holy Days: $100.00; Bishop’s Appeal: $20.00; Misc.: $67.85  

Total: $1,754.85 / Attendance: 55

UPCOMING

Saturday June 19, 5:15pm – Altar Server Training for any boys or men interested in serving at the altar.

Sunday June 20– Father’s Day celebration we will be holding a hybrid potluck celebration after the Divine Liturgy on June 20th for Father’s Day. See Ali Adams for potluck sign-up sheets

EPARCHIAL APPEAL 2021

We are in the midst of this year’s Eparchial Appeal. Funds donated to this appeal will support the various ministries that the Bishop and the Eparchy of Phoenix carry out for the Glory of God and the up-building of the Church. Our goal is to reach 100% participation, so please give any amount you can! Details should have been sent to you by the Eparchy, but if you have not received anything you can contribute anyway by writing “Eparchial Appel” on the memo line of a check to the parish, or donate online at https://ephx.org/st-marys-eparchial-appeal/
Thank you for your generosity!

Thank you to those who have contributed: Anonymous, Clemens, Cook, Davies, Delgado, Golya, Healy, Herrera, Horey F, Horey M, Michyna, Mina, Mowery, Fr O’Loughlin, O’Neill P, O’Neill S, Onufrak, Parrot, Patzwahl, Petach, Richie, Seabright, Sumandra NS, Sumandra S, Tabak, Theisen, Zimmerman PM, and Zimmerman WJ.

Divine Light in the Soul     

From Community of Grace, Chapter 5, “Come Take Light”

For today as from a bridal chamber, Christ has shone forth from the tomb, and filled the women with joy, saying Proclaim the glad tidings to the apostles!

–Paschal Matins

In this week’s chapter, a story tells about an Alcoholic named Al. Al is unconvinced about God, but offers a humble and contrite prayer that results in a being of Light removing his sickness and infusing him with divine love. We may not believe this is possible any longer for us; maybe God will only do this for unbelievers. But aren’t we unbelievers in a way when we stop believing that God can hear a sincere prayer and do wonders in our hearts? Challenge yourself to trust again. God can act in us! Offer him sincere prayer! Ask him to rekindle the joy of your salvation!

In Christ,

Fr. Nathan Symeon

“Immediately they left their nets and followed him.” Hearing the call, Peter, Andrew, James and John left one calling to become fishers of men. The life of prayer and devotion in monasticism and holy orders is a special way to live this calling. Is Christ calling you to follow him? Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

 

Sunday Bulletin 05/30/21

WEEKLY LITURGICAL SCHEDULE

Sunday, May 30  –  Sunday of All Saints          

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, May 31  –  Hermas, Apostle & Hermeas, Martyr        

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Tuesday, June 1  –  Justin and Others, Martyrs          

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer           

Wednesday, June 2  –  Nicephor, Patriarch     

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy            +John Bosak from MJ Koman-Keogh

Thursday, June 3  –  Lucillian and Others, Martyrs         

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

8:30 AM          Photina Walk

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, June 4  –  Metrphanes, Patriarch              

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Saturday, June 5  –  Dorotheus, Bishop-Martyr          

8:30 AM          Divine Liturgy           

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, June 6  –  2nd Sunday after Pentecost            

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy 

PRAYER REQUESTS

Please remember the following people in your prayers: Estella Biedenbender,  Ken Bosak, , Fletes Family: Alicia, Frankie, Layla, Lupita & Veronica, Victoria Flores, Larry Goodwin, Holly Garlow,  Michelle Grana, Virginia Harrington, Jeanne Hart, Michael Hefferon, Rob Hooper, Chris Johnson, Patricia Kurczak,  Irene Lehman, Elizabeth & John Mallas, Dylan Mancia, Toni Martin, Marg Mauro, Juan Gabriel Martinez, Pedro Medina, Mina family: Mila, Diana, Rev. John & Mike,  Shannon O’Neill, Tanya Petach, Casandra Porch, Nicholas, Rodriguez Diane Romano, Paul Saucedo, Kathleen Savko, Robert Stamer, Leanne Steuer, Mary Washko, Dina & Matthew Wiggins,  Carmen Zambrano, Lana Zimmerman, Patrick Zimmerman, Fr. Chris Zugger and all those who serve in the Armed Forces

WEEKLY DEPOSIT

Collection: $855.00; Candles: $59.25; Online: $185.00; Holy Days: $150.00

Total: $1,249.25 / Attendance: 54

EPARCHIAL APPEAL 2021

We are in the midst of this year’s Eparchial Appeal. Funds donated to this appeal will support the various ministries that the Bishop and the Eparchy of Phoenix carry out for the Glory of God and the up-building of the Church. Our goal is to reach 100% participation, so please give any amount you can! Details should have been sent to you by the Eparchy, but if you have not received anything you can contribute anyway by writing “Eparchial Appel” on the memo line of a check to the parish, or donate online at https://ephx.org/st-marys-eparchial-appeal/
Thank you for your generosity!

Thank you to those who have contributed: Anonymous, Clemens, Cook, Davies, Delgado, Golya, Healy, Herrera, Horey F, Horey M, Michyna, Mina, Mowery, Fr O’Loughlin, O’Neill P, O’Neill S, Onufrak, Parrot, Patzwahl, Petach, Richie, Seabright, Sumandra NS, Sumandra S, Tabak, Theisen, Zimmerman PM, and Zimmerman WJ.

Next Sunday – Corpus Christi

We will be joining our Roman Catholic family for a neighborhood procession next Sunday after the Divine Liturgy.  All are invited.  This will replace Adult Ed.  See the email bulletin for more info.

Byzantine Saint Stories for Little Ones: Theodora & Didymus – Feast Day May 27

Theodora was a young woman who wanted more than anything to be a nun.  At that time, it was illegal to be a nun, and even to be a Christian.  Trying to get her to deny her faith, the authorities forced her to go to an evil place where women were abused by men.  There was a competition among many sinful men to hurt her first.  One good man, a young soldier named Didymus, thought of a way to save her.  He pretended that he was going to hurt her, but when the other men weren’t looking, he switched clothes with her and so allowed her to walk out disguised as him.  When Didymus was found wearing her clothes, and the evil men realized they had been deceived, they wanted to kill him.  Before they could, Theodora found him, thanked him, and tried to convince him to let her die in his place.  He refused, wanting to protect her, and give his life as Christ did.  She wanted the same.  They both ended up dying martyrs, rejoicing that they could give their lives together as brother and sister in Christ.   

(The original version of their story can be found in the parish email or at abbamoses.com)

 

“The one who saves his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will obtain it.” The saints show us the meaning of Christ’s words, when they obtained life by giving their lives for the sake of Christ. Serving as a monk, nun, priest, deacon or in minor orders is one way to lose one’s life. This may be your calling to grow in Christ. Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

Theodora and Didymus – May 27 For Kids and Adults

Byzantine Saint Stories for Little Ones:  Theodora and Didymus – Feast Day May 27

Theodora was a young woman who wanted more than anything to be a nun.  At that time, it was illegal to be a nun, and even to be a Christian.  Trying to get her to deny her faith, the authorities forced her to go to an evil place where women were abused by men.  There was a competition among many sinful men to hurt her first.  One good man, a young soldier named Didymus, thought of a way to save her.  He pretended that he was going to hurt her, but when the other men weren’t looking, he switched clothes with her and so allowed her to walk out disguised as him.  When Didymus was found wearing her clothes, and the evil men realized they had been deceived, they wanted to kill him.  Before they could, Theodora found him, thanked him, and tried to convince him to let her die in his place.  He refused, wanting to protect her, and give his life as Christ did.  She wanted the same.  They both ended up dying martyrs, rejoicing that they could give their lives together as brother and sister in Christ.   

 

 

Holy Martyrs Theodora and Didymus (304)

“In the reign of the wicked Emperor Maximilian, there lived in Alexandria a maiden, Theodora, well-educated and of noble lineage. She was brought to trial before the pagans for her Christian faith. After long interrogation and torture for the Faith, the prince, her tormentor, ordered that she be thrown into a brothel and the soldiers given free access to her to indulge their carnal lusts. Theodora prayed fervently to God to save her from defilement, and, when she had prayed, a soldier called Didymus came in to her and told her that he was a servant of Christ. He dressed her in his soldier’s garb and himself in her dress, then let her out and remained in the brothel himself. He was seized and brought before the judge, where he acknowledged that he was a Christian and had saved Theodora, and was now prepared to die for Christ. He was condemned to death and taken out to the place of execution. Theodora ran up to him there and cried out: ‘Although you saved my honour, I did not ask you to save me from death. Yield the martyr’s death to me!’ Didymus replied: ‘My beloved sister, do not hinder my death for Christ, nor the washing of my sins in my blood.’ Hearing this exchange, the pagans condemned them both to death, and they were beheaded and their bodies burned. They suffered with honour and received eternal wreaths of glory in Alexandria in the year 304.”  – From the Prologue of Ohrid

Is Sheltering our Kids in the Church Wrong?

From our text, Community of Grace, Chapter 4, “It Takes a Village” we read that an elderly grandmother who, in response to someone who claimed focusing on church community shelters children too much, retorted “What’s wrong with being sheltered?…It meets my needs.”

The author goes on to note, “Thinking later about this lively discussion, I wondered why some people insist that ‘sheltering’ children is a bad idea. What does that word mean, anyway? The dictionary says that shelter is derived from ‘shield troop,’ literally a body of men protected by interlocked shields. A shelter covers and protects from danger or the elements. Our Sunday school teachers taught us that Adam and Eve were sheltered in the Garden, that Noah and his family took refuge in the ark, and that Moses was covered by God’s own hand. Churches have always been places of refuge, and God himself is called a ‘fortress.’”

Jesus tells us that he sends us out as sheep among wolves (Matt. 10:16). Our children will be sent out one day as well. But for now, as they are being nurtured in our care, aren’t we to shelter them in preparation for that day, even as Jesus did for his disciples? Fr. Mike and I would love to talk to you about this if you have any thoughts.

In Christ,

Fr. Nathan Symeon

“Whoever follows me will not walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.” The Holy Spirit is our light of life. The Church is strengthened by those servants filled with the Spirit, whose life of prayer and service brings light and life to the world. Is the Holy Spirit guiding you to this life as a priest, deacon, monk or nun? Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org 

Sunday Bulletin 05/23/21

WEEKLY LITURGICAL SCHEDULE

Sunday, May 23 – Pentecost Sunday         

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, May 24 – Pentecost Monday        

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

7:30 PM          Divine Liturgy            Sister Mary

Wednesday, May 26 – Carpus, Apostle

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy            Advisory Board Members

Thursday, May 27 – Therapont, Bishop-Martyr

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

8:30 AM          Photina Walk

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, May 28 – Nicetas, Bishop

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Saturday, May 29 – Theodosia, Venerable Martyr       

8:30 AM          Divine Liturgy            +John Bosak from MJ Koman-Keogh

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, May 30 – Sunday of All Saints          

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy 

PRAYER REQUESTS

Please remember the following people in your prayers: Estella Biedenbender,  Ken Bosak, , Fletes Family: Alicia, Frankie, Layla, Lupita & Veronica, Victoria Flores, Larry Goodwin, Holly Garlow,  Michelle Grana, Virginia Harrington, Jeanne Hart, Michael Hefferon, Rob Hooper, Chris Johnson, Patricia Kurczak,  Irene Lehman, Elizabeth & John Mallas, Dylan Mancia, Toni Martin, Marg Mauro, Juan Gabriel Martinez, Pedro Medina, Mina family: Mila, Diana, Rev. John & Mike,  Shannon O’Neill, Tanya Petach, Casandra Porch, Nicholas, Rodriguez Diane Romano, Paul Saucedo, Kathleen Savko, Robert Stamer, Leanne Steuer, Mary Washko, Dina & Matthew Wiggins,  Carmen Zambrano, Lana Zimmerman, Patrick Zimmerman, Fr. Chris Zugger and all those who serve in the Armed Forces

WEEKLY DEPOSIT

Collection: $1,777.00; Candles: $75.50; Online: $185.00; Holy Days: $300.00

Total: $2,337.50 / Attendance: 78

 

EPARCHIAL APPEAL 2021

We are in the midst of this year’s Eparchial Appeal. Funds donated to this appeal will support the various ministries that the Bishop and the Eparchy of Phoenix carry out for the Glory of God and the up-building of the Church. We need about $325.00 from each family to reach our goal. Please give more if you can, as some cannot give that amount. Details should have been sent to you by the Eparchy, but if you have not received anything you can contribute anyway by writing “Eparchial Appel” on the memo line of a check to the parish, or donate online at https://ephx.org/st-marys-eparchial-appeal/
Thank you for your generosity!

Thank you to those who have contributed: Anonymous, Clemens, Cook, Davies, Golya, Healy, Herrera, Horey F, Horey M, Michyna, Mina, Mowery, Fr O’Loughlin, O’Neill P, O’Neill S, Onufrak, Patzwahl, Richie, Sumandra NS, Tabak, Theisen, Zimmerman PM, and Zimmerman WJ.

Is Sheltering our Kids in the Church Wrong?

From our text, Community of Grace, Chapter 4, “It Takes a Village” we read that an elderly grandmother who, in response to someone who claimed focusing on church community shelters children too much, retorted “What’s wrong with being sheltered?…It meets my needs.”

The author goes on to note, “Thinking later about this lively discussion, I wondered why some people insist that ‘sheltering’ children is a bad idea. What does that word mean, anyway? The dictionary says that shelter is derived from ‘shield troop,’ literally a body of men protected by interlocked shields. A shelter covers and protects from danger or the elements. Our Sunday school teachers taught us that Adam and Eve were sheltered in the Garden, that Noah and his family took refuge in the ark, and that Moses was covered by God’s own hand. Churches have always been places of refuge, and God himself is called a ‘fortress.’”

Jesus tells us that he sends us out as sheep among wolves (Matt. 10:16). Our children will be sent out one day as well. But for now, as they are being nurtured in our care, aren’t we to shelter them in preparation for that day, even as Jesus did for his disciples? Fr. Mike and I would love to talk to you about this if you have any thoughts.

In Christ,

Fr. Nathan Symeon

 

“Whoever follows me will not walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.” The Holy Spirit is our light of life. The Church is strengthened by those servants filled with the Spirit, whose life of prayer and service brings light and life to the world. Is the Holy Spirit guiding you to this life as a priest, deacon, monk or nun? Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

Sunday Bulletin 05/16/21

Sunday of The Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council

WEEKLY LITURGICAL SCHEDULE

Sunday, May 16         

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, May 17       

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Tuesday, May 18       

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Wednesday, May 19  

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy                        Leo Matthew Davies

Thursday, May 20      

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, May 21          

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Saturday, May 22 – 5th All Souls Saturday        

8:30 AM          Divine Liturgy & Panachida                        +The Deceased of St. Mary’s 

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, May 23 – Pentecost Sunday         

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

PRAYER REQUESTS

Please remember the following people in your prayers: Estella Biedenbender,  Ken Bosak, , Fletes Family: Alicia, Frankie, Layla, Lupita & Veronica, Victoria Flores, Larry Goodwin, Holly Garlow,  Michelle Grana, Virginia Harrington, Jeanne Hart, Michael Hefferon, Rob Hooper, Chris Johnson, Patricia Kurczak,  Irene Lehman, Elizabeth & John Mallas, Dylan Mancia, Toni Martin, Marg Mauro, Juan Gabriel Martinez, Pedro Medina, Mina family: Mila, Diana, Rev. John & Mike,  Shannon O’Neill, Tanya Petach, Casandra Porch, Nicholas, Rodriguez Diane Romano, Paul Saucedo, Kathleen Savko, Robert Stamer, Leanne Steuer, Mary Washko, Dina & Matthew Wiggins,  Carmen Zambrano, Lana Zimmerman, Patrick Zimmerman, Fr. Chris Zugger and all those who serve in the Armed Forces

WEEKLY DEPOSIT

Collection: $1,199.00; Online: $810.00; Home Missions: $100.00

Total: $2,109.00

UPCOMING

  • God With Us Online is hosting a free Webinar I Believe: a study of the Creed of the Church Wednesdays 8-9:30 pm through June 16. Register online. Flyers are on the bulletin boards.

EPARCHIAL APPEAL 2021

We are in the midst of this year’s Eparchial Appeal. Funds donated to this appeal will support the various ministries that the Bishop and the Eparchy of Phoenix carry out for the Glory of God and the up-building of the Church. We need about $325.00 from each family to reach our goal. Please give more if you can, as some cannot give that amount. Details should have been sent to you by the Eparchy, but if you have not received anything you can contribute anyway by writing “Eparchial Appel” on the memo line of a check to the parish, or donate online at https://ephx.org/st-marys-eparchial-appeal/
Thank you for your generosity!

Thank you to those who have contributed: Anonymous, Clemens, Golya, Healy, Herrera, Horey M, Michyna, Mina, Mowery, Father O’Loughlin, O’Neill, Patzwahl, Sumandra NS, Tabak, Theisen, Zimmerman PM, and Zimmerman WJ.

Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council

This Sunday is the Sunday of the Fathers of the First Council of Nicea. Obviously, the “fathers” of the council refers to the 318 Bishops that traveled from all over the world to join together to give voice to the orthodox Catholic Faith as it was established and received from the Apostles. Primarily, the fathers of the council focused their attention on the Arian heresy and proclaimed with one voice that Jesus is truly God and truly man, an Eternal Divine Person with two distinct natures. One of the bishops that joined the council was the great Saint Athanasios, bishop of Alexandria.

It was Saint Athanasios who, in his debates with the arch-heretic Arius, uttered the famous statement “God became man that man might become god.” This truth, so central to our Christian faith, restates the foundational Christian belief that the purpose of the Incarnation, the reason why God became a man in the womb of Holy Theotokos, was so that he might reclaim his creation from the dominion of the devil and reunite us with Him. Through our baptism, we are joined to Christ in a real way so that we are able to say with Saint Paul, “it is no longer I who lives, but Christ who lives in me.”                  

-From God With Us Online

“Keep them through your Name which you have given me, so that they may be one, even as we are one.” Jesus prayed that we would share in the unity of the life-creating Trinity. The Church needs men and women who are called to live this prayer out in a religious vocation. He may be calling you to become a monk, a nun, or to ordained ministry. Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org