The Great Prophet Elijah (July 20th)

“God’s great love for the human race saw the prophet sorrowing over the great transgressions of all. Elijah was enraged, and he hurled these unmerciful words to the Merciful One: Become angry and cry out against those who turned against You, O just Judge. Move the heart of every good person to torment your enemies. The only Lover of Mankind always seeks the repentance of all.” Ikos for the Glorious Prophet Elijah

Elijah was a righteous man living in unrighteous times (for example, read I Kings 17-19). He struggled against ungodly kings and queens, false prophets, siding with the truth. At times God came to his side and showed miraculously who was right. Think of the prophets of Baal and Elijah calling fire down from heaven, something that God granted at that time, but would later not grant with some other followers of God (Luke 9:54-55)…

The Glorious Prophet Elijah can teach us so much about our humanity, as we meditate upon the conflict in his world, and our world today. Church corruption, political insanity, the overall inhumanity, loneliness and sin of our day can be faithfully documented. Will that bring us to a good vision of how to respond to it all? Perhaps, perhaps not. It must never cast us away from the most important vision of all, and that is the beauty of this world and all of creation, even our enemies who are currently our enemies…

We may cry for un-mercy as did Elijah, and it may be because of the hurt we have received, but if we profess to follow the Merciful One, His response to our prayers may sometimes be a No that appears to contradict us. If we see more mystically, this response will transform us and take us to see the higher reality of reconciliation and repentance… let your heart meet mercy, whether it is content or full of rage. Transformation is real, and it is what we all need.

(Abridged from https://prayerofsaintephrem.blog/2019/07/20/when-rage-meets-mercy/)

Sunday Bulletin 7/18/21

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Sunday, July 18 – Fathers of the Six Ecumenical Councils           

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, July 19  –  Marina, Great Martyr & Blessed Paul Gojdich         

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

6:30 PM          Vespers

7:30 PM          Vigil Divine Liturgy   +John Bosak from MJ Koman-Keogh

Tuesday, July 20  –  Elijah, Prophet         

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Wednesday, July 21  –  Simeon and John, Venerables    

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy   Blaise and Therese Blain &Family

7:30 PM          Fire Pit Social

Thursday, July 22  –  Mary Magdalene, Equal to the Apostles     

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

8:30 AM          Photina Walk

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, July 23  –  Trophimus & Others, Martyrs          

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Compline

Saturday, July 24  –  Boris and Gleb, Martyrs      

8:30 AM          Divine Liturgy   +Bishop Gerald Dino                    

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, July 25  –  9th 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: $2,148.00; Candles: $21.00; Online: $685.00; Church Improvements: $150.00; VC Outreach: $80.00; Holydays: $25.00  

Total: $3,109.00 / Attendance PSM: 63; VCO: 41

The Great Prophet Elijah (July 20th)

“God’s great love for the human race saw the prophet sorrowing over the great transgressions of all. Elijah was enraged, and he hurled these unmerciful words to the Merciful One: Become angry and cry out against those who turned against You, O just Judge. Move the heart of every good person to torment your enemies. The only Lover of Mankind always seeks the repentance of all.” Ikos for the Glorious Prophet Elijah

Elijah was a righteous man living in unrighteous times (for example, read I Kings 17-19). He struggled against ungodly kings and queens, false prophets, siding with the truth. At times God came to his side and showed miraculously who was right. Think of the prophets of Baal and Elijah calling fire down from heaven, something that God granted at that time, but would later not grant with some other followers of God (Luke 9:54-55)…

The Glorious Prophet Elijah can teach us so much about our humanity, as we meditate upon the conflict in his world, and our world today. Church corruption, political insanity, the overall inhumanity, loneliness and sin of our day can be faithfully documented. Will that bring us to a good vision of how to respond to it all? Perhaps, perhaps not. It must never cast us away from the most important vision of all, and that is the beauty of this world and all of creation, even our enemies who are currently our enemies…

We may cry for un-mercy as did Elijah, and it may be because of the hurt we have received, but if we profess to follow the Merciful One, His response to our prayers may sometimes be a No that appears to contradict us. If we see more mystically, this response will transform us and take us to see the higher reality of reconciliation and repentance… let your heart meet mercy, whether it is content or full of rage. Transformation is real, and it is what we all need.

(Abridged from https://prayerofsaintephrem.blog/2019/07/20/when-rage-meets-mercy/)

“Bring them to me.” Jesus miraculously fed the thousands by blessing the loaves and the fish. To do this, he asked his followers to gather and bring the food to him. He still uses us as his servants, particularly those men and women who are monastics, as well as through men called to holy orders. Is this something God is calling you to? Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

THE BYZANTINE CATHOLIC EPARCHY OF PHOENIX subscribes to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People adopted by the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops.  The Eparchy, within all its parishes, institutions and programs, is committed to assuring a safe environment in ministry for its children and young people that conforms to the Charter requirements. 

For information regarding the Eparchial Safe Environment Program, please contact:
Dcn. Michael Hanafin: Safe Environment Program Coordinator

Cell: (480) 387-5182 – Email: dcnhanafin@ephx.org
Sbdcn. Paul F. Kilroy: Asst. Safe Environment Program Coordinator
Office: (602) 861-9778 – Cell: (702) 498-5972 – Email: sbdcnkilroy@ephx.org
Dr. Caroline Bonham: Victim Assistance Coordinator 

Cell: (505) 314-3943 – Email: victimassistanceofphoenix@gmail.com

Sunday Bulletin 07/11/21

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Sunday, July 11 – 7th Sunday after Pentecost          

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, July 12 – Proclus and Hilary, Martyrs         

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

Tuesday, July 13 – Synaxis of the Archangel Gabriel         

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Wednesday, July 14 – Aquila, Apostle    

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy   Blaise and Therese Blain &Family

7:30 PM          Fire Pit Social

Thursday, July 15 – Vladimir the Great, Equal to the Apostles       

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

8:30 AM          Photina Walk

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, July 16 – Athenogenes, Bishop-Martyr            

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Saturday, July 17 – Marina, Great-Martyr       

8:30 AM          Divine Liturgy   Intentions of Martin Olguin          

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, July 18 – Fathers of the 6 Ecumenical Councils          

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: $3,555.00; Candles: $56.25; Online: $485.00; Church Improvements: $120.00; VC Outreach: $143.00; Holydays: $120.00; Peter’s Pence: $100.00  

Total: $4,579.25 / Attendance PSM: 85; VCO: 35

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.

 

Byzantine Saint Stories for Little Ones

Vladimir the Great, Equal to the Apostles- July 15

Saint Vladimir lived in Kiev, a city in modern day Ukraine, 1,000 years ago.  He was a prince, but worshipped items that were made by men instead of the one God who made everything.  He decided to send messengers all over the world to report on the various world religions and the way other peoples worshipped.  When they returned to Kiev, they told him all about their travels and what they experienced.  They described in detail all the different religions of the world one by one.  Finally, they talked about their experience in Constantinople, at Hagia Sophia, the mother church of our Byzantine faith.  They had attended an exquisitely sung Divine Liturgy in the stunning temple.  They told Vladimir that it was so beautiful that they didn’t know if they were in heaven or on earth.  Upon hearing this, he learned about our Byzantine faith, was baptized, destroyed all the man-made idols in the land, and began to build the churches in which our Byzantine ancestors worshipped and received the One, True God. 

 

“According to your faith let it be done to you!” Jesus met the blind men who cried to him for mercy, and he brought them healing. The Church continues this ministry of healing. Are you being called to take part in this ministry in a special way? Discerning a life of service in monasticism or holy orders could be a new calling for you as a Christian. Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

 

THE BYZANTINE CATHOLIC EPARCHY OF PHOENIX subscribes to the
Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People

adopted by the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops.  The Eparchy, within all its parishes, institutions and programs, is committed to assuring a safe environment in ministry for its children and young people that conforms to the Charter requirements. 

For information regarding the Eparchial Safe Environment Program, please contact:
Dcn. Michael Hanafin: Safe Environment Program Coordinator

Cell: (480) 387-5182 – Email: dcnhanafin@ephx.org
Sbdcn. Paul F. Kilroy: Asst. Safe Environment Program Coordinator
Office: (602) 861-9778 – Cell: (702) 498-5972 – Email: sbdcnkilroy@ephx.org
Dr. Caroline Bonham: Victim Assistance Coordinator 

Cell: (505) 314-3943 – Email: victimassistanceofphoenix@gmail.com

Vladimir the Great

Byzantine Saint Stories for Little Ones

Vladimir the Great, Equal to the Apostles- July 15

Saint Vladimir lived in Kiev, a city in modern day Ukraine, 1,000 years ago.  He was a prince, but worshipped items that were made by men instead of the one God who made everything.  He decided to send messengers all over the world to report on the various world religions and the way other peoples worshipped.  When they returned to Kiev, they told him all about their travels and what they experienced.  They described in detail all the different religions of the world one by one.  Finally, they talked about their experience in Constantinople, at Hagia Sophia, the mother church of our Byzantine faith.  They had attended an exquisitely sung Divine Liturgy in the stunning temple.  

They told Vladimir that it was so beautiful that they didn’t know if they were in heaven or on earth.  

Upon hearing this, he learned about our Byzantine faith, was baptized, destroyed all the man-made idols in the land, and began to build the churches in which our Byzantine ancestors worshipped and received the One, True God. 

Sunday Bulletin 07/04/21

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Sunday, July 4 – 6th Sunday after Pentecost             

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, July 5 – Athanasius of Mt Athos, Venerable           

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

6:30 PM          Vespers

Wednesday, July 7 – Thomas and Acacius, Venerable       

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy                +John Bosak from Ken Bosak

7:30 PM          Fire Pit Social

Thursday, July 8 – Procopius, Great-Martyr          

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

8:30 AM          Photina Walk

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, July 9 – Pancratius, Bishop-Martyr              

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Compline

Saturday, July 10 – Anthony of the Caves, Venerable       

8:30 AM          Divine Liturgy             +Bishop Gerald Dino         

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, July 11 – 7th 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: $1,027.00; Candles: $48.25; Online: $1,245.00; Church Improvements: $25.00; VC Outreach: $50.00; Holydays: $70.00; Peter’s Pence: $150.00; Initial Offering: $10.00  

Total: $2,625.25 / Attendance: 52

For Love of Country:  A Catholic Patriotism

Excerpt from an article by Jared Staudt

“I have found myself drawn towards greater patriotism. By this, I simply mean a deeper appreciation of what I’ve been given by my country and also a growing realization of the duty I have to work for the common good, here and now. The Catechism of the Catholic Church speaks of this duty under the fourth commandment that enjoins honor not only to parents but also to anyone in authority…

“It is the duty of citizens to contribute along with the civil authorities to the good of society in a spirit of truth, justice, solidarity, and freedom. The love and service of one’s country follow from the duty of gratitude and belong to the order of charity. Submission to legitimate authorities and service of the common good require citizens to fulfill their roles in the life of the political community” (2239). 

…(There is) something called the Golden Triangle, an idea…which ultimately comes from the Founding Fathers. “The Golden Triangle of Freedom is, when reduced to its most basic form, that freedom requires virtue; virtue requires faith; and faith requires freedom. The three go round and round, supporting one another ad infinitum. If any one of the three legs of the triangle is removed, the whole structure ceases to exist” (54). John Adams, for example, related very clearly, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other”

(Full article at https://denvercatholic.org/for-love-of-country-a-catholic-patriotism/)

 

 “Son, be of good cheer! Your sins are forgiven!” The faith of the friends of the paralytic brought healing and forgiveness. All of us can do the same in our own lives. Priests, deacons, monks and nuns are especially called to do this in the Church for the life of the world. If this may be something God is calling you to consider, contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

THE BYZANTINE CATHOLIC EPARCHY OF PHOENIX subscribes to the
Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People

adopted by the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops.  The Eparchy, within all its parishes, institutions and programs, is committed to assuring a safe environment in ministry for its children and young people that conforms to the Charter requirements. 

For information regarding the Eparchial Safe Environment Program, please contact:
Dcn. Michael Hanafin: Safe Environment Program Coordinator

Cell: (480) 387-5182 – Email: dcnhanafin@ephx.org
Sbdcn. Paul F. Kilroy: Asst. Safe Environment Program Coordinator
Office: (602) 861-9778 – Cell: (702) 498-5972 – Email: sbdcnkilroy@ephx.org
Dr. Caroline Bonham: Victim Assistance Coordinator  

Cell: (505) 314-3943 – Email: victimassistanceofphoenix@gmail.com

Sunday Bulletin 06/27/21

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Sunday, June 27 – 5th Sunday after Pentecost          

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, June 28 – Translation of the relics of Cyrus and John, Unmercenaries        

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

6:30 PM          Vespers

7:30 PM          Vigil Divine Liturgy (Holy day of Obligation)

Tuesday, June 29 – Peter and Paul, Preeminent Apostles

Wednesday, June 30 – Synaxis of the Twelve Apostles   

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy                +John Bosak from Ken Bosak

7:30 PM          Fire Pit Social

Thursday, July 1 – Cosmas and Damian, Unmercenaries         

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

8:30 AM          Photina Walk

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, July 2 – Deposition of the Robe of the Theotokos               

7:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Saturday, July 3 – Hyacinth, Martyr          

8:30 AM          Divine Liturgy             +John Bosak from Nancy Rodriguez & Family                                        

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, July 4 – 6th 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: $2,203.00; Candles: $45.50; Online: $685.00; Church Improvements: $75.00; VC Outreach: $176.00; Gift Shop: $377.00  

Total: $3,552.50  

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.

Feast of Saints Peter and Paul – June 29th

This coming Tuesday is the great feast of the Preeminent Apostles Peter and Paul.  A single feast for these two great Roman martyrs is an ancient establishment, but a well-known icon of the feast is more recent.  The icon of Peter and Paul embracing gained much popularity in the 15th and 16th centuries.  Since icons are “windows into heaven”, they reveal not only who lived and what happened in our chronological time and physical space, but also the transcendent reality of what is happening in heaven.  This is why for instance you will see Pentecost icons both with and without the Theotokos.  The icon with the Theotokos emphasizes the moment in time when the Spirit descended on the Apostles and all those gathered in the upper room (including the Mother of God), while the icon without her and usually including St. Paul is an icon that emphasizes the foundation of the Church.  

In the icon of Peter and Paul then, they are embracing to emphasize the union that they now have in heaven, even if that union was complicated during the apostolic age.  That tension continues in the successors of these two men even today.  The reasons for their embrace, a hopeful act for those of us still living in the world, is at least three-fold.

-Peter and Paul’s relationship in the 1st century was rocky (See Galatians 2).

-Peter was an apostle to the Jews and Paul to the Gentiles, a distinction that will be fulfilled 

in heaven (Galatians 3:28).

-Peter and Paul can be seen to represent Orthodoxy and Catholicism, as both lived in the 

East, but died in Rome.  This is likely why this icon gained in popularity in the 15th Century.  500 years after the Great Schism, the Council of Florence attempted, unfortunately unsuccessfully, to unify the separated Churches.   

“Go!” This is the one word from our Lord that we hear in today’s gospel, and yet it is a profound one. Jesus can control evil spirits, which was and is a shock to this world. Is he calling you to “go” on a holy path, by discerning a vocation to the priesthood, diaconate, or monastic life? Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

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

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