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

Parish Book Club Reflections

From A Community of Grace: It takes a Village (Chapter 4)

The author writes, “Children love and need tradition, order, and predictability. The value of tradition lies in its repetition, its intimacy, its knowledge this is what we do, what we have been through together, what we have shared, laughed at, and been a part of.” I have been thinking about this a lot lately. I think about how quickly my kids are growing, and how they will be adults only tomorrow. I wonder how well I have taught them to love holy traditions. It is a statistical fact that what kids are exposed to will greatly determine their future selves and even occupations. I greatly desire that my children love our community, and that they love the traditions they are exposed to. I want to pass down a legacy of honoring God and the community they are in. This should be the prayer of every parent. If we don’t have holy traditions in our homes it is very likely that neither will they. As parents let us show them the love we have for all things holy, let’s build holy tradition in their lives.

-Fr. Nathan Symeon

Sunday Bulletin 05/09/21

Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!
Christos Voskrese! Voistinnu Voskrese!

WEEKLY LITURGICAL SCHEDULE

Sunday, May 9  –  Sunday of the Man Born Blind 
8:30 AM Matins
9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

Monday, May 10 
7:30 AM Morning Prayer
4:00 PM Evening Prayer

Tuesday, May 11 
7:30 AM Morning Prayer
4:00 PM Evening Prayer

Wednesday, May 12 
6:30 PM Vespers
7:30 PM Divine Liturgy for the Ascension

Thursday, May 13  –  Ascension of Our Lord 
7:30 AM Morning Prayer
8:30 AM Photina Walk
6:30 PM Ventura County Divine Liturgy for the Ascension 

Friday, May 14 
4:00 PM Evening Prayer

Saturday, May 15 
8:30 AM Divine Liturgy +John Bosak from MJ Koman-Keogh
5:00 PM Ventura County Divine Liturgy
6:30 PM Vespers

Sunday, May 16  –  Fathers of the 1st Ecumenical Council 
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: $3,940.00; Candles: $54.00; Online: $285.00; Home Missions: $50.00; Bishop’s Appeal: $900.00; Holy Days: $50.00; Church Improvements: $20.00

Total: $5,299.00

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.

From A Community of Grace: It takes a Village (Chapter 4)

The author writes, “Children love and need tradition, order, and predictability. The value of tradition lies in its repetition, its intimacy, its knowledge this is what we do, what we have been through together, what we have shared, laughed at, and been a part of.” I have been thinking about this a lot lately. I think about how quickly my kids are growing, and how they will be adults only tomorrow. I wonder how well I have taught them to love holy traditions. It is a statistical fact that what kids are exposed to will greatly determine their future selves and even occupations. I greatly desire that my children love our community, and that they love the traditions they are exposed to. I want to pass down a legacy of honoring God and the community they are in. This should be the prayer of every parent. If we don’t have holy traditions in our homes it is very likely that neither will they. As parents let us show them the love we have for all things holy, let’s build holy tradition in their lives.

“One thing I do know: that though I was blind, now I see!” The healing love of Christ gave sight to the man born blind. Have you received the eyes to spiritually see your calling in life? Is he calling you to help the world see Him more clearly by a vocation to the priesthood, diaconate, monastic or religious life? Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

Bulletin 5/2/2021

Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!
Christos Voskrese! Voistinnu Voskrese!

Dearest Proto-Cathedral and Ventura Country Byzantine Community Parishioners,

Father Nathan and his family (and Sister Natalia) have all tested negative for COVID multiple times this past week. I (Father Michael) will be self quarantining into this coming week, but Father Nathan will be covering all scheduled liturgies. You are encouraged to come to the Divine Liturgy this weekend, but you have a dispensation if you are vulnerable and want to wait another week.

Thank you for your prayers.

(There will not be a physical bulletin this week due to the office being closed b/c of Father Michael’s positive COVID test)

Blessed Sunday of the Samaritan Woman (Photina)!

Eparchial Appeal 2021
We are in the midst of this year’s Eparchial Appeal. Fund’s 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 upbuilding 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 haven’t 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, Herrera, Horey M, Michyna, Mina, Mowery, Father O’Loughlin, O’Neill, Patzwahl, Sumandra NS, Theisen, Zimmerman PM and Zimmerman WJ.

Day Pilgrimage with Father Nathan Symeon

Please Join us for a pilgrimage to St. Buenaventura Mission for 7:30 Mass this Friday (May 7). The address is 211 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001. For more information on the Mission see Home – San Buenaventura Mission

After Mass, we will tour the property, and in the following make a trip to the Bonaventura Pier (very close to the mission) for some fun time on the beach. The address is 750 Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001.

This week’s blog (https://byzantinela.com/parish-blog/)

Saint Photina
The Church has given the woman in today’s Gospel passage the name “Photina”. Her name is based on the word “light” because she is both enlightened herself, and directs the whole town back to Christ who is the Light of Life.
What does it mean that she is enlightened? First, remember we are in the Paschal season, so the neophytes (newly baptized) called the “Newly Enlightened” are discovering the many fruits of what it means to have:
-died to the old self to live for Christ – Colossians 3:3
-put off the old man and put on the new – Ephesians 4:22
-been called to offer mercy, not fruitless sacrifice – Matthew 9:13/ Hosea 6:6
-guided to embrace a neediness before God, sorrow for injustice, humility, yearning for God’s Way, forgiveness, abhorrence of selfish violence, courage in God’s Will, and a willingness to be a beacon of Truth in a world that exalts power and control – Matthew 5
The Samaritan Woman, before encountering Christ, was living a life of discontent, pleasure-seeking and shame. After Christ, she has rest, contentment, healing and confidence. Her previous life was one of the darkness of deception. She was deceived to believe that she could find happiness in the goods of this world, engage in false worship, and run away from suffering. When Christ enlightened her (Christ giving her “living Water” points to baptism) she has discovered the one relationship that will fulfill her neediness, knows how to interact with the Divine, and has the confidence to become fearless before evil. She is no longer deceived, but rather has found the Truth and is changing her life as a result.
She then enlightens the whole town by refusing to hoard the Gift she has received, but rather knows that that Gift is only amplified when it continues to be given, and so becomes a witness to the healing power of God.

WEEKLY LITURGICAL SCHEDULE

Saturday, May 1 –
5:00pm Ventura County Divine Liturgy

Sunday, May 2 – Sunday of the Samaritan Woman
8:30 AM Matins
9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

Tuesday, May 4 – Holy Martyr Pelagia
7:30 AM Morning Prayer
4:00 PM Evening Prayer

Wednesday, May 5 – Great-Martyr Irene
7:30 AM Morning Prayer
4:00 PM Evening Prayer
6:30 PM Divine Liturgy +Gerald Sumandra from Paul Sumandra
7:30 PM Firepit Social

Thursday, May 6 – Venerable Job
7:30 AM Morning Prayer
8:30 AM Photina Walk
4:00 PM Evening Prayer

Friday, May 7
7:30 AM Pilgrimage Mass in Ventura (See above)

Saturday, May 8
5:00 PM Ventura County Divine Liturgy
6:30 PM Vespers

Sunday, May 9 – Sunday of the Many Born Blind
8:30 AM Matins
9:30 AM Divine Liturgy

The Mystery of Penance (Confession) is available after any liturgy (including Morning Prayer, Vespers etc.) and during the first portion of Divine Liturgy on Sunday.

God With Us Online is hosting a free Webinar I Believe: a study of the Creed of the Church Wednesdays 8-9:30 pm April 14 – June 16. Register online. Flyers are on the bulletin boards.

Recurring Announcements

Daily Readings Now Available on Our Website
Go to https://byzantinela.com/daily-devotionals/ to find the daily Epistle, Gospel and a short biography of the saint of the day for our Byzantine Calendar.

No-Pressure Byzantine Book Club- This Quarter (April-June, 2021): “Community of Grace: An Orthodox Christian Year in Alaska” by Mary Alice Cook

We will pick a new book every three months and read it together as a parish. You will likely see the book mentioned in bulletin posts and homilies. Discussion about the book will take place on the parish website. Feel free to purchase the book yourself, or find it in our giftshop. You can contribute to the discussion at https://byzantinela.com/byzantine-catholic-book-club/

Dispensation: Due to the ongoing COVID pandemic, our parish has once again received a dispensation from Sunday obligation for at least the next few weeks. Please continue to come if you are able, and trust in our prayers for your health and peace if you are not.

Sunday Potlucks!

As we continue to adapt to this season of the pandemic, instead of our usual post-liturgy socials, we will be holding a potluck every Sunday, after the 9:30am Divine Liturgy. Serving gloves, hand sanitizer and paper utensils will be available. Please bring something to share and be free to serve and receive as you feel comfortable.

Weekly Ventura County Divine Liturgy

If you have friends or family living in Ventura County, let them know that we will be celebrating a Divine Liturgy every Saturday evening at 5pm at the Saint Mary Magdalene Chapel (2532 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010). Father Michael and Fr. Nathan will alternate celebrating this Divine Liturgy, then will hear confessions and host visitors Sunday morning in Sherman Oaks.

Adult Education: Join us this and every Sunday for adult education classes using “Christ Our Pascha” as a guide, but discussing any and all topics related to our church. We meet in person or over Zoom every Sunday at 11:45am. Here are the basics, and you can find more information at the bottom of this email.

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87925622519

God Bless and I’ll see you soon,
Love,

Father Michael

Appendix Info.

Livestreamed liturgies:

How to view live-streams liturgies:

For now, we use Facebook. If you are on Facebook our parish page is called:

“Byzantine Catholic Proto-Cathedral of St. Mary” or you can search for “@protocathedralso”.

If you are not on Facebook, you can go to facebook.com/protocathedralso and watch online. It will try to get you to log into Facebook, but if you click “not now” it will let you watch the livestream with a less annoying prompt banner at the bottom of the page.

DonorBox:

Online Tithing

Without everyone gathered on Sundays, we need to make sure that we still offer Christ our “treasure” as well as our time and talent. Feel free to send in your normal tithe check to 5329 Sepulveda Blvd. Sherman Oaks, CA 91411. Or, we just set up a great new way to tithe online using your credit card or bank account information. You can also do a one-time donation or set up weekly donations!! I’m very excited about this and hope that it will facilitate more prayerful and consistent support for the parish. You will receive a receipt and statement immediately after donating. The software takes a very small percentage of the donation, but its worth it for the ease of the system. If you are making a large donation though, please use a check to make sure that the whole donation goes to the church. Please give me and the advisory board feedback after you try the system. It is very important that we continue to give a percentage of what Our Lord has given us, and continue to support the structure and ministry of the parish. This software was recommended by Bishop Robert Barron’s fundraising staff and is used by many non-profits.

You can donate using your computer at: https://donorbox.org/st-mary-s-proto-cathedral

Online Adult Education (We are also meeting in-person)

Join us for a class online Sundays at 11:45am. Here’s how:

-Either: 1) Download the Zoom app on your phone, tablet or computer (zoom.us) or 2) just use your internet browser.

-Either way, follow the info. below to join.

-You can read the Catechism online at http://catechism.royaldoors.net/catechism/

Father Michael O’Loughlin is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Proto-Cathedral Sunday Morning Adult Education
Time: This is a recurring meeting Meet anytime

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87925622519

Meeting ID: 879 2562 2519
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