Sunday of Zacchaeus

Today the Church, through the proclamation of the Gospel, reminds us that the Lord sees and values things in a way that the world cannot understand. Oftentimes, what the world sees as strength is a pitfall for those who seek the Lord; and what the world sees as weakness is an opportunity for spiritual growth.

Zacchaeus, “small of stature” and despised by the Jews becomes the one who sees the Lord and welcomes him into his home. Why? The Fathers of the Church tell us that Zacchaeus was able to see the Lord, not because of the Sycamore tree, but because he set aside the self-righteousness of the world and the stature of honor and worldly dignity.

By becoming “small” and humble of heart, by opening his eyes to the Lord’s vision, Zacchaeus was able to rise above those around him to behold the Lord and welcome him into his home. By going to Zacchaeus’ house, Jesus confirmed for all that Zacchaeus had already made a home for the Lord in his heart.

Throughout the Gospel, those who are apparently weak become strong, the blind become able to see, the paralytics walk again, and this strength and healing is found in one thing: that the Lord has made himself present within them, that he comes in to “our house,” and for that we must “make haste” to come down to meet him.

Sunday Bulletin 1/30/22

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Sunday, Jan. 30 – Sunday of Zacchaeus           

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, Jan. 31 – Cyrus and John, Unmercenaries

No Services

Tuesday, Feb. 01 – Tyrphon, Martyr          

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Vespers

Wednesday, Feb. 02 – Meeting of our Lord with Simeon and Anna   

8:30 AM          Matins

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy +NYPD & NYPO 9/11/01 from Rick White

7:30 PM          Fire-pit Social

Thursday, Feb. 03 – Synaxis of the Holy Prophets Simeon and Anna       

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, Feb. 04 – Isidore, Venerable            

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

Saturday, Feb. 05 – Agatha, Martyr        

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, Feb. 06 – Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee          

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, Nicole Hefferon, Rob Hooper, Chris Johnson, Mary-Jo Koman-Keogh, 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, Denise Painter, Austin Pearce, 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: $1,089.00; Candles: $44.60; Online: $95.00; VC Outreach: $2,110.00

Total: $3,338.60 / Attendance- PSM: 121 VCO: 40

 

“Today salvation has come to this house.” Our Great God and Savior has come to save the world. Have you experienced His salvation in your “house”? Would you like to share this life with the world through a calling to holy orders, religious or monastic life?  Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

 

Sunday of Zacchaeus

Today the Church, through the proclamation of the Gospel, reminds us that the Lord sees and values things in a way that the world cannot understand. Oftentimes, what the world sees as strength is a pitfall for those who seek the Lord; and what the world sees as weakness is an opportunity for spiritual growth.

Zacchaeus, “small of stature” and despised by the Jews becomes the one who sees the Lord and welcomes him into his home. Why? The Fathers of the Church tell us that Zacchaeus was able to see the Lord, not because of the Sycamore tree, but because he set aside the self-righteousness of the world and the stature of honor and worldly dignity.

By becoming “small” and humble of heart, by opening his eyes to the Lord’s vision, Zacchaeus was able to rise above those around him to behold the Lord and welcome him into his home. By going to Zacchaeus’ house, Jesus confirmed for all that Zacchaeus had already made a home for the Lord in his heart.

Throughout the Gospel, those who are apparently weak become strong, the blind become able to see, the paralytics walk again, and this strength and healing is found in one thing: that the Lord has made himself present within them, that he comes in to “our house,” and for that we must “make haste” to come down to meet him.

God With Us Online

Check the flyer on the bulletin boards for God With Us Online’s Spring curriculum. All courses are offered as live webinars, and are free of charge. Fr. Nathan, Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia have a course this spring. Register today: EasternCatholic.org/events

 

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

Jan. 29 The translation of the Relics of the Holy Bishop and Martyr Ignatius of Antioch

The translation of the Relics of the Holy Priest Martyr Ignatius the God-bearer, Bishop of Antioch. Ignatius was martyred in Rome at the beginning of the second century. His remains were later translated to Antioch, his birthplace and his episcopate. During the invasion of the Persians, the relics were once again taken from Antioch to Rome in the 6th century. 

 

Troparion

Having offered yourself as a sanctified gift to God, you were thrown to the ravenous animals. You received the crown of victory from God for this. Save those who honor you as a pastor for Christ. A teacher and a companion of martyrs.

 

Kontakion

Rising in the east today and enlightening all the world by your teachings, you were graced with martyrdom, O heavenly Ignatius. 

 

Readings for the saint

Epistle

Hebrews 4:14- 5:6

    Brothers and sisters: Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our profession of faith. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weakness, but one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet never sinned. So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and favor and to find help in time of need.

    Every high priest is taken from among men and made their representative before God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. He is able to deal patiently with erring sinners, for he himself is beset by weakness and so must make sin offerings for himself as well as for the people. One does not take this honor on his own initiative, but only when called by God as Aaron was. Even Christ did not glorify himself with the office of high priest; he received it from the One who said to him, “You are my son; today I have begotten you”; just as he says in another place, “You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.”

    In the days when he was in the flesh, he offered prayers and supplications with loud cries and tears to God, who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; and when perfected, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him, designated by God as high priest according to the order of Melchizedek.

 

Gospel

Mark 9: 33-41

    At that time Jesus and his disciples returned to Capernaum and Jesus, once inside the house, began to ask them, “What were you discussing on the way home?” At this they fell silent, for on the way they had been arguing about who was most important. So he sat down and called the Twelve around him and said, “If anyone wishes to rank first, he must remain the last one of all and the servant of all.” Then he took a little child, stood him in their midst, and putting his arms around the child, said to them, “Whoever welcomes a child such as this for my sake welcomes me. And whoever welcomes me welcomes, not me, but him who sent me.”

John said to him, “Teacher, we saw a man using your name to expel demons and we tried to stop him because he was not of our company.” Jesus said in reply: “Do not try to stop him. No man who performs a miracle using my name can at the same time speak ill of me. Anyone who is not against us is with us. Any man who gives you a drink of water because you belong to Christ will not, I assure you, go without his reward.”  

 

Readings for the day

Epistle

1 Thessalonians 5: 14-23

    Brothers and sisters: We exhort you to admonish the unruly; cheer the faint hearted; support the weak; be patient toward all. See that no one returns evil to any other; always seek one another’s good and, for that matter, the good of all. Rejoice always, never cease praying, render constant thanks; such is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not stifle the Spirit. Do not despise the prophecies. Test everything; retain what is good. Avoid any semblance of evil.    

    May the God of peace make you perfect in holiness. May he preserve you whole and entire, spirit, soul, and body, irreproachable at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Gospel 

Luke 17: 3-10

    The Lord said: “Be on your guard. If your brother does wrong, correct him; if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times a day, and seven times a day turns his back to you saying, ‘I am sorry,’ forgive him.”

    The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith,” and Jesus answered: “If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this sycamore, ‘Be uprooted and transplanted into the sea,’ and it would obey you. If one of you had a servant plowing or herding sheep and he came to you from the fields, would you say to him, ‘Come and sit down at table’? Would you not rather say, ‘Prepare my supper. Put on your apron and wait on me while I eat and drink. You can eat and drink afterward’? Would he be grateful to the servant who was only carrying out his orders? It is quite the same with you who hear me. When you have done all you have been commanded to do, say, ‘We are useless servants. We have done no more than our duty.’”

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Jan. 28 Our Venerable Father Ephrem the Syrian

Our venerable father Ephrem the Syrian, Bishop of Nineveh, who, first in his own hometown of Nisibis, exercised the office of preaching and of handing on holy teaching. Then, when the Persians invaded Nisibis, he fled with his disciples to Edessa in Syria, where he set down the fundamentals of a school of theology, fulfilling his ministry by his words and writings. So striking is the austerity of his life and clarity of his teachings that from the exquisite hymns he composed he has deserved to be called the harp of the Holy Spirit. 

 

Troparion

Your abundant tears made the wilderness bloom, and your suffering made your labors fruitful a hundredfold; you became a shining torch over the world. O venerable father Ephrem, pray to Christ our God that He may save our souls.

 

Kontakion

Ever conscious of the hour of judgement, you shed tears of bitter lament, O Ephrem. Your activity embraced the life of silence which you loved so dearly. By your actions you have taught us. You have spurred the lazy to repentance. 

 

Reading for Ephrem

Epistle

Galatians 5:22 – 6:2

Brothers and sisters: The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patient endurance, kindness, generosity, faith, mildness and chastity. Against such there is no law! Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified their flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the spirit, let us follow the spirit’s lead. Let us never be boastful, or challenging, or jealous toward one another.

Brothers and sisters, if someone is detected in sin, you who live by the spirit should gently set him right, each of you trying to avoid falling into temptation himself. Help carry one another’s burden; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.   

 

Gospel

Matthew 11: 27-30

The Lord said to his disciples: “Everything has been given over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son– and anyone whom the Son wishes to reveal Him.” 

    “Come to me, all you who are weary and find life burdensome, and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon your shoulders and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble of heart. Your souls will find rest, for my yoke is easy and my burden light.” 

 

Reading for the day

Epistle

1 Peter 1: 1-2. 10-12; 2: 6-10

    Peter, and apostle to Jesus Christ, to those who live as strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Sithynia; to men chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, consecrated by the Spirit to a life of obedience to Jesus Christ and purification with his blood. Favor and peace be yours in abundance. 

    This is the salvation which the prophets carefully searched out and examined. They prophesied the divine favor that was destined to be yours. They investigated the times and the circumstances which the Spirit of Christ within them was pointing to, for he predicted the sufferings destined for Christ and the glories that would follow. They knew by revelation that they were providing, not for themselves but for you, what has now been proclaimed to you by those who preach the gospel to you, in the power of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Into these matters angels long to search. 

    For Scripture has it: “See, I am laying a cornerstone in Zion, an approved stone, and precious. He who puts his faith in it shall not be shaken.” The stone is of value for you who have faith. For those without faith, it is rather, [as Scripture also says] “A stone which the builders rejected that became a cornerstone.”

    It is likewise “an obstacle and a stumbling stone.” Those who stumble and fall are the disbelievers in God’s word; it belongs to their destiny to do so. You, however, are a “chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people he claims for his own to proclaim the glorious works” of the One who called you from darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were no people, but now you are God’s people; once there was no mercy for you, but now you have found mercy.

 

Gospel

Mark 12: 1-12

    At that time Jesus began to address the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders once more in parables: “A man planted a vineyard, put a hedge around it, dug a vat, and erected a tower. Then he leased it to tenant farmers and went on a journey. In due time he dispatched a man in her service to the tenants to obtain from them his share of produce from the vineyard. But the tenants seized the servant, beat him, and sent him off empty-handed. The second time he sent them another servant; him too they beat over the head and treated shamefully. He sent yet another and they killed him. So too with many others: some they beat; some they killed. He still had one to send – the son whom he loved. He sent him to the tenants as a last resort, thinking, ‘They will have to respect my son.’ But those tenants said to one another, ‘Here is the one who will inherit everything. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ Then they seized and killed him and dragged him outside the vineyard. What do you suppose the owner of the vineyard will do? He will come and destroy those tenants and turn his vineyard over to others. Are you not familiar with the passage of Scripture: ‘The stone rejected by the builder has become the keystone of the structure. It was the Lord who did it and we find it marvelous to behold’?”

    They wanted to arrest him at this, yet they had reason to fear the crowd. (They knew well enough that he meant the parable for them.) Finally they left him and went off.

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Jan. 27 Translation of the Relics of our Holy Father John Chrysostom. 

The Translation of the Precious Relics of our Father among the Saints John Chrysostom. In the year 438, thirty-three years after the death of St. John Chrysostom in Coman of Armenia, his relics were transferred to his episcopal see of Constantinople. 

 

Troparion

The holy church sings praise and the world rejoices. How joyful is the transfer of your sacred relics, O venerable pastor, John Chrysostom. You lived among pastors in holiness and became a martyr in your yearning. We therefore sing to you: O martyr and companion of pastors, beg Christ our God to save our souls.

 

Kontakion

The Church of Constantinople rejoiced greatly because of the transfer of your holy relics and she kept them as a treasure of great price. Through your intercession, these same remains convey the grace of healing upon those who sing to you a hymn of praise, O most glorious John Chrysostom.

 

Readings for the feast

Epistle

Hebrews 7: 26- 8: 2 

    Brothers and sisters: It was fitting that we should have such a high priest [as Jesus]: holy, innocent, undefiled, separated from sinners, higher than the heavens. Unlike the other high priests, he has no need to offer sacrifice day after day, first for his own sins and then for those of the people; he did that once for all when he offered himself. For the law sets up as high priests men who are weak, but the word of the oath which came after the law appoints as priests the Son, made perfect forever. 

    The main point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, who has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, minister of the sanctuary and of that true tabernacle set up, not by men, but by the Lord.

 

Gospel

John 10: 1-9

    The Lord said, “Truly I assure you: whoever does not enter the sheepfold through the gate but climbs in some other way is a thief and a marauder. The one who enters through the gate is shepherd of the sheep; the keeper opens the gate for him. The sheep hear his voice as he calls his own by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all those that are his, he walks in front of them, and the sheep follow him because they recognize his voice. They will not follow a stranger; such a one they will flee, because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.”

    Even though Jesus used this figure with them, they did not grasp what he was trying to tell them. He therefore said to them again: “My solemn word is this: I am the sheepgate. All who came before me were thieves and marauders whom the sheep did not heed. I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be safe. He will go in and out, and find pasture.”

 

Readings for the day

Epistle 

James 4: 7- 5:9

    Brothers and sisters: Submit to God; resist the devil and he will take flight. Draw close to God, and he will draw close to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, you backsliders. Begin to lament, to mourn, and to weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy into sorrow. Be humbled in the sight of the Lord and he will raise you on high.

    Do not, my brothers and sisters, speak ill of one another. The one who speaks ill of his brother or judges his brother is speaking against the law. It is the law he judges. If, however, you judge the law you are no observer of the law, you are its judge. There is but one Lawgiver and Judge, one who can save and destroy. Who are you to judge your neighbor?

    Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we shall go to such and such a town, spend a year there, trade, and come off with a profit!” You have no idea what kind of life will be yours tomorrow. You are a vapor that appears briefly and vanishes. Instead of saying, “If the Lord wills it, we shall live to do this or that,” all you can do is make arrogant and pretentious claims. All such boasting is reprehensible. When a man knows the right thing to do and does not do it, he sins. 

    As for you, you rich, weep and wail over your impending miseries. Your wealth has rotted, your fine wardrobe has grown moth-eaten, your gold and silver has corroded, and their corrosion shall be a testimony against you; it will devour your flesh like a fire. See what you have stored up for yourselves against the last days. Here, crying aloud, are the wages you withheld from the farmhands who harvested your fields. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You lived in wanton luxury on the earth; you fattened yourselves for the day of slaughter. You condemned, even killed, the just man; he does not resist you.

Be patient, therefore, my brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer awaits the precious yield of the soil. He looks forward to it patiently while the solid receives the winter and spring rains. You, too, must be patient. Steady your hearts, because the coming of the Lord is at hand. DO not grumble against one another, my brothers and sisters, lest you be condemned. See! The judge stands at the gate. 

 

Gospel

Mark 11: 27-33

    At that time Jesus and his disciples returned once more to Jerusalem. As he was walking in the temple precincts the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders approached him and said to him, “On what authority are you doing these things? Who has given you the power to do them?” Jesus said to them, “I will ask you a question. If you give me an answer, I will tell you on what authority I do the things I do. Tell me, was John’s baptism of divine origin or merely from men?” They thought to themselves, “If we say ‘divine,’ he will ask, “Then why did you not put faith in it?’ But can we say ‘merely human’?” (They had reason to fear the people, who all regarded John as a true prophet.) So their answer to Jesus was, “We do not know.” In turn, Jesus said to them, “Then neither will I tell you on what authority I do the things I do.” 

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

A Prayer for the Beginning of the Day from St. John of Kronstadt

O Lord, grant that with Your peace I may greet all that this day is to bring. Grant me grace to surrender myself completely to Your holy will. In every hour of this day instruct me and guide me in all things. Teach me to accept tranquility whatever tidings I may receive during this day, in the firm belief that Your holy will governs all. Govern my thoughts and feelings in all that I do and say. When unforeseen things occur, let me not forget that all is overseen by You. Teach me to behave sincerely and reasonably toward everyone, so that I may bring confusion and sorrow to no one. Bestow on me, O Lord, strength to endure the fatigue of the day and to bear my part in its events. Guide my will and teach me to pray, to believe, to suffer, to forgive, and to love. Amen.

Sunday Bulletin 1/23/22

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Sunday, Jan. 23 – 35th Sunday after Pentecost           

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Tuesday, Jan. 25 – Gregory the Theologian, Bishop         

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Wednesday, Jan. 26 – Xenophon & Mary, Venerables    

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy  +Fr. Conon Timoney

7:30 PM          Fire-pit Social

Thursday, Jan. 27 – Translation of the Relics of John Chrysostom         

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, Jan. 28 – Ephrem the Syrian, Venerable             

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Compline

Saturday, Jan. 29 – Translation of the Relics of Ignatius, Martyr          

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, Jan. 30 – Sunday of Zaccheus           

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, Nicole Hefferon, Rob Hooper, Chris Johnson, Mary-Jo Koman-Keogh, 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, Denise Painter, Austin Pearce, 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: $1,738.60; Candles: $72.00; Online: $125.00; VC Outreach: $495.65; Parish Socials: $25.00; Initial Offering: $5.00; Holydays: $120.00; Coffee Shop fund: $6,000.00; All Souls: $30.00

Total: $8,611.25 / Attendance- PSM: 63  VC: 64

House Blessings

It is a tradition to receive a house blessing every year after the feast of Theophany.  You will find sign up sheets for this year’s house blessing in the small hall.

 2021 Contribution Statements

2021 contribution statements will NOT be printed unless requested. Please see Anne Seabright or email the office for a paper copy. If you have not received your statement, your email address is not on file with the office, please email admin@byzantineLA.com

God With Us Online

Check the flyer on the bulletin boards for God With Us Online’s Spring curriculum. All courses are offered as live webinars, and are free of charge. Register today: EasternCatholic.org/events

A Prayer for the Begging of the Day from St. John of Kronstadt

O Lord, grant that with Your peace I may greet all that this day is to bring. Grant me grace to surrender myself completely to Your holy will. In every hour of this day instruct me and guide me in all things. Teach me to accept tranquility whatever tidings I may receive during this day, in the firm belief that Your holy will governs all. Govern my thoughts and feelings in all that I do and say. When unforeseen things occur, let me not forget that all is overseen by You. Teach me to behave sincerely and reasonably toward everyone, so that I may bring confusion and sorrow to no one. Bestow on me, O Lord, strength to endure the fatigue of the day and to bear my part in its events. Guide my will and teach me to pray, to believe, to suffer, to forgive, and to love. Amen.

“…even the little dogs eat the crumbs from their masters’ table.” Today’s encounter between the Canaanite woman and our Lord shows us what hunger for salvation looks like. The entire world seeks fulfillment that comes to us through union with God. Is He calling you to serve and show this mystical reality by serving as a monk or nun, or through a life in the holy orders? Reach out to 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

The Veneration of the venerable Chains of St. Peter (Jan. 16)

 

The OCA notes “The Veneration of the Honorable Chains of the Holy and All-Praised Apostle Peter: In about the year 42, on the orders of Herod Agrippa, the Apostle Peter was thrown into prison for preaching about Christ the Savior. In prison, he was held secure by two iron chains. During the night before his trial, an angel of the Lord removed these chains from the Apostle Peter and led him out from the prison (Acts 12:1-11). Christians who learned of the miracle took the chains and kept them as precious keepsakes. For three centuries, the chains were kept in Jerusalem, and those who were afflicted with illness and approached them with faith received healing. Patriarch Juvenal (July 2) presented the chains to Eudokia, wife of the emperor Theodosius the Younger, and she in turn transferred them from Jerusalem to Constantinople in either the year 437 or 439. Eudokia sent one chain to Rome to her daughter Eudoxia (the wife of Valentinian), who built a church on the Esquiline hill dedicated to the Apostle Peter and placed the chain in it. There were other chains in Rome, with which the Apostle Peter was shackled before his martyrdom under the emperor Nero. These were also placed in the church. On January 16, the chains of Saint Peter are brought out for public veneration.”

Why do we venerate chains? All of us are chained to things, other people, our hobbies, our friends, families, and even enemies. But there is nothing more glorious than to be a prisoner of Christ! The Apostle Paul calls these “the bonds of the gospel.” (c.f Philemon 1:13; and Acts 28:20). To be bound by the Gospel means total freedom to be what God has made us to be. Indeed, “He whom the Son sets free is free indeed!” (John 8:36). Paradoxically, to be a slave to God is to be totally free because true freedom is freedom as God created it to be, freedom to become partakers of the Gospel, of the Divine Nature (2 Pet. 1:4).

Sunday Bulletin 01/16/22

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Sunday, Jan. 16 – 34th Sunday after Pentecost           

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, Jan. 17 – Anthony the Great, Venerable         

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

Tuesday, Jan. 18 – Athanasius & Cyril, Archbishops         

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Wednesday, Jan. 19 – Marcarius, Venerable    

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy +Fr. Conon Timoney

7:30 PM          Fire-pit Social

Thursday, Jan. 20 – Euthymius the Great, Venerable        

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, Jan. 21 – Maximus the Confessor, Venerable             

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Compline

Saturday, Jan. 22 – Timothy, Apostle and Anastasius, Martyr          

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, Jan. 23 – 35th 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, Nicole Hefferon, Rob Hooper, Chris Johnson, Mary-Jo Koman-Keogh, 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, Denise Painter, Austin Pearce, 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: $1,357.00; Candles: $93.50; Online: $595.00; VC Outreach: $270.00; Church Improvements: $95.00; Parish Socials: $5.00; Initial Offering: $15.00; Holydays: $160.00

Total: $2,590.50 / Attendance- PSM: 64 VCO: 29

House Blessings

It is a tradition to receive a house blessing every year after the feast of Theophany.  You will find sign up sheets for this year’s house blessing in the small hall.

2021 Contribution Statements

2021 contribution statements will NOT be printed unless requested. Please see Anne Seabright or email the office if this is the case. If your email address is not on file with the church, please email admin@byzantineLA.com to ensure you receive your statement.

The Veneration of the venerable Chains of St. Peter (Jan. 16)

The OCA notes “The Veneration of the Honorable Chains of the Holy and All-Praised Apostle Peter: In about the year 42, on the orders of Herod Agrippa, the Apostle Peter was thrown into prison for preaching about Christ the Savior. In prison, he was held secure by two iron chains. During the night before his trial, an angel of the Lord removed these chains from the Apostle Peter and led him out from the prison (Acts 12:1-11). Christians who learned of the miracle took the chains and kept them as precious keepsakes. For three centuries, the chains were kept in Jerusalem, and those who were afflicted with illness and approached them with faith received healing. Patriarch Juvenal (July 2) presented the chains to Eudokia, wife of the emperor Theodosius the Younger, and she in turn transferred them from Jerusalem to Constantinople in either the year 437 or 439. Eudokia sent one chain to Rome to her daughter Eudoxia (the wife of Valentinian), who built a church on the Esquiline hill dedicated to the Apostle Peter and placed the chain in it. There were other chains in Rome, with which the Apostle Peter was shackled before his martyrdom under the emperor Nero. These were also placed in the church. On January 16, the chains of Saint Peter are brought out for public veneration.”

Why do we venerate chains? All of us are chained to things, other people, our hobbies, our friends, families, and even enemies. But there is nothing more glorious than to be a prisoner of Christ! The Apostle Paul calls these “the bonds of the gospel.” (c.f Philemon 1:13; and Acts 28:20). To be bound by the Gospel means total freedom to be what God has made us to be. Indeed, “He whom the Son sets free is free indeed!” (John 8:36). Paradoxically, to be a slave to God is to be totally free because true freedom is freedom as God created it to be, freedom to become partakers of the Gospel, of the Divine Nature (2 Pet. 1:4).

God With Us Online

Check the flyer on the bulletin boards for God With Us Online’s Spring curriculum. All courses are offered as live webinars, and are free of charge. Register today: EasternCatholic.org/events

 “Your faith has healed you.” Jesus heard the pleas for him to have mercy on the blind man on the road near Jericho. He meets us wherever we are in life, to bring us the healing that we so dearly need, especially when we cry out in faith. Priests, deacons, monks and nuns bring the presence of Jesus to the world. Could this be your calling? To find out more, contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

Sunday Bulletin 01/09/22

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Sunday, Jan. 09 – Sunday after Theophany           

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

Monday, Jan. 10 – Gregory of Nyssa, Bishop         

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Tuesday, Jan. 11 – Theodosius, Venerable         

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Wednesday, Jan. 12 – Tatiana, Martyr    

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy            +Fr. Conon Timoney

7:30 PM          Fire-pit Social

Thursday, Jan. 13 – Hermolaus and Stratonicus, Martyrs         

8:30 AM          Matins

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

Friday, Jan. 14 – Venerable Fathers of Sinai and Raitho           

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Compline

Saturday, Jan. 15 – Paul and John, Venerables         

5:00 PM          Ventura County Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Vespers

Sunday, Jan. 16 – 34th 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, Nicole Hefferon, Rob Hooper, Chris Johnson, Mary-Jo Koman-Keogh, 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, Denise Painter, Austin Pearce, 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: $3,718.00; Candles: $30.10; Online: $330.00; VC Outreach: $60.00; Holydays: $100.00; Church Improvements: $135.00; Parish Socials: $49.00; Initial Offering: $15.00

Total: $4,437.10 / Attendance- PSM: 65

What to do with your blessed Jordan water

We’ve all heard the stats…humans are about 60% water (babies at birth are about 78% water, adult women about 55-60% and adult men about 60-65%) and the earth is about 71% water.  Water can kill, or sustain life.  The church has acknowledged the obvious importance of water and uses it to manifest the cleansing, grave, vital, and sustaining reality of the Church and Christ.  

At the blessing of the Jordan water on Theophany, the priest asks our Lord to make the blessed water “a source of incorruption, a gift of sanctification, a deliverance from sins, an averting of diseases, unapproachable by hostile powers, filled with angelic strength. That all who draw from it and partake of it may have it for cleansing of souls and bodies, for healing of passions, for sanctification of homes, for every suitable purpose”.

So it’s important to acknowledge this great gift by actually using the water.  Too many of us put the Jordan water we bring home in our icon corner and never touch it again.  One beautiful tradition is to have a sip (or just a drip off an immersed fingertip) first thing in the morning so that holy water is the first thing we consume each day.  We can also use it to trace a sign of the cross on our children, phones, steering wheel, front door, TV, pillow, gifts, and on our children’s media devices, backpacks, seats at table, and beds.  

And there is even a traditional prayer to say before having that sip of holy water in the morning:

O Lord, my God, may I receive your holy water for the remission of my sins, the enlightenment of my mind, the strengthening of my soul and body, and the conquering of my passions and infirmities, according to your mercy that has no bounds, and through the prayers of your most pure Mother and all the saints.  Amen.

Father Michael 

House Blessings

It is a tradition to receive a house blessing every year after the feast of Theophany.  You will find sign up sheets for this year’s house blessing in the back of the church this coming Sunday.

Daily Devotionals

We have begun a new project that makes daily prayer easier and more comprehensive.  You will find daily posts featuring the saint, icon, troparion, kontakion, epistle and Gospel of the day on our parish website and social media.  Daily posts are published on the website (byzantinela.com/daily-devotionals/) at 4pm the previous day (the liturgical day begins at sundown the previous day) and our parish Facebook (“Byzantine Catholic Proto-Cathedral of St. Mary” @ProtoCathedralSO) and Instagram (@st_marys_protocathedral) accounts at 6am.  

“The people who sat in darkness saw a great light.” The Unapproachable Light of Christ showed himself to us. Our Lord may be calling you to the priesthood, diaconate, or religious life.  If this may be the case, contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org