Oct. 6 The Holy and Glorious Apostle Thomas

The holy and glorious apostle Thomas was a fisherman in Galilee, who, after hearing the words of the Lord, became his disciple. Thomas did not believe the other disciples when they announced the resurrection of Jesus. When Jesus himself showed his pierced side, Thomas exclaimed, “My Lord and my God.” According to Church Tradition, the holy Apostle Thomas founded Christian churches in Palestine, Mesopotamia, Parthia, Ethiopia and India. Preaching the Gospel earned him a martyr’s death. For having converted the wife and son of the prefect of the Indian city of Meliapur [Melipur], Thomas was locked up in prison, tortured, and finally, pierced with five spears, he departed to the Lord. Part of the relics of the holy Apostle Thomas are in India, in Hungary and on Mt. Athos.

 

Troparion

You were both a disciple of Christ and a member of the divine apostolic college. Your lack of faith proved the Resurrection of Christ and your touch unleashed reverence, O all-praiseworthy Thomas, now obtain peace and mercy for us. 

 

Kontakion

O Thomas, full of wisdom and grace, you were a disciple and faithful servant of Christ. You cried out in the sincerity of your repentance: You are my Lord and my God!

 

Epistle

1 Corinthians 4: 9-16

  Brothers and sisters: As I see it, God has put us apostles at the end of the line, like men doomed to die in the arena. We have become like a spectacle to the universe, to angels and men alike. We are fools on Christ’s account. Ah, but in Christ you are wise! We are the weak ones, you the strong! They honor you, while they sneer at us! Up to this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, poorly clad, roughly treated, wandering about homeless. We work hard at manual labor. When we are insulted we respond with a blessing. Persecution comes our way; we bear it patiently. We are slandered, and we try conciliation. We have become the world’s refuse, the scum of all; that is the present state of affairs. 

I am writing you this way not to shame you but to admonish you as my beloved children. Granted you have ten thousand guardians in Christ, you have only one father. It was I who begot you in Christ Jesus through my preachings of the gospel. I beg you, be imitators of me. 

 

Gospel

John 20: 19-31

On the evening of that first day of the week, even though the disciples had locked the doors of the place where they were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood before them. “Peace be with you,” he said. When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. At the sight of the Lord the disciples rejoiced. “Peace be with you,” he said again.

“As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” Then he breathed on them and said: “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive men’s sins, they are forgiven them; if you hold them bound, they are held bound.” 

It happened that one of the Twelve, Thomas (the name means, “Twin”), was absent when Jesus came. The other disciples kept telling him: “We have seen the Lord!” His answer was, “I will never believe it without probing the nailprints in his hands, without putting my finger in the nailmarks and my hand into his side.”

A week later, the disciples were once more in the room, and this time Thomas was with them. Despite the locked doors, Jesus came and stood before them. “Peace be with you,” he said to them; then, to Thomas: “Take your finger and examine my hands. Put your hand into my side. Do not persist in your unbelief, but believe!” Thomas said in response, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus then said to him: “You became a believer because you saw me. Blest are they who have not seen and have believed.”

Jesus performed many other signs as well – signs not recorded here – in the presence of his disciples. But these have been recorded to help you believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, so that through his faith you may have life in his name. 

 

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

 

Oct. 5 The Holy Martyr Charitina

The holy martyr Charitina was a young girl who was brought before a governor of the emperor Diocletian in the year 304. She boldly testified, “It is true that I am a Christian, and a lie that I delude others. O lead those in error to the way of truth, bringing them to my Christ.” She endured many awful tortures for the sake of her Lord, and died in the glory of His name. 

 

Troparion

Your lamb Charitina, O Jesus, cries out in a loud voice: I love You, my Bridegroom; I seek You with painful longing; I am crucified with You; in Your baptism, I am buried with You; I suffer for You that I may reign with You; and I die for You that I may live with You. Receive me as a spotless sacrifice immolated with love for You. By her prayers, O merciful One, save our souls.

 

Kontakion

You shamed the violent enemy with the might of your understanding, O Charitina, after you had strengthened your soul with faith. O all-blessed lady, you went into the presence of Christ wearing a gown dyed red in your blood. Now that you stand in the company of angels, pray for us, O Passion-bearer.

 

Epistle

Philippians 1: 20a-27a

Brothers and sisters: I have full confidence that now as always Christ will be exalted through me, whether I live or die. For, to me, “life” means Christ; hence dying is so much gain. If, on the other hand, I am to go on living in the flesh, that means productive toil for me – and I do not know which I prefer. I am strongly attracted by both: I long to be freed from this life and to be with Christ, for that is the far better thing; yet it is more urgent that I remain alive for your sakes. This fills me with confidence that I will stay with you, and persevere with you all, for your joy and your progress in the faith. My being with you once again should make you even prouder of me in Christ. Conduct yourselves, then, in a way worthy of the gospel of Christ.

 

Gospel

Luke 7: 17-30

At that time the report of Jesus being a great prophet spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country. The disciples of John brought their teacher word of all these happenings. Summoning two of them, John sent them to ask the Lord, “Are you ‘He who is to come’ or are we to expect someone else?” When the men came to Jesus they said, “John the Baptizer sends us to you with this question: ‘Are you “He who us to come” or do we look for someone else?’” (At that time he was curing many of their diseases, afflictions, and evil spirits; he also restored sight to many who were blind.) Jesus gave this response: “Go and report to John what you have seen and heard. The blind recover their sight, cripples walk, lepers are cured, the deaf hear, dead men are raised to life, and the poor have the good news preached to them. Blest is the man who finds no stumbling block in me.”

When the messengers of John had set off, Jesus began to speak about John to the crowds. “What did you go out to see in the desert–a reed swayed by the wind? What, really, did you go out to see–someone dressed luxuriously? Remember, those who dress in luxury and eat in splendor are to be found in royal palaces. Then what did you go out to see–a prophet? He is that, I assure you, and something more. This is the man of whom Scripture says, ‘I send my messenger ahead of you to prepare your way before you.’ I assure you, there is no man born of woman greater than John. Yet the least born into the kingdom of God is greater than he.”

The entire populace that had heard Jesus, even the tax collectors, gave praise to God, for they had received from John the baptismal bath he administered. The Pharisees and the lawyers, on the other hand, by failing to receive his baptism defeated God’s plan in their regard. 

 

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

 

Oct. 4 The Holy Martyr Hierotheus, Bishop of Athens; Our Venerable Father Francis of Assisi

The holy martyr Hierotheus was a friend of St. Dionysius (Denis) the Areopagite. Hierotheus was converted by the Apostle Paul shortly after his friend. Paul later made him bishop of Athens. Tradition tells us that Hierotheus assembled in Jerusalem with the Apostles for the Dormition of the Theotokos. He was martyred in Athens.

Our venerable father Francis of Assisi was a deacon and founder of the Three Orders. He was converted after an unfettered youth in Assisi in Umbria. He chose an evangelical life, serving Jesus Christ found among the poorest and most neglected. Having made himself a poor man, he gathered himself little brothers (i.e., the Friars Minor) in a community. He preached the love of God to everyone, in a journey that reached as far as the Holy Land. Seeking to be a perfect follower of Christ in words and deeds, he wished to travel the needy earth carrying the good news. 

 

Troparion

You learned goodness and practiced temperance. You robed yourself in the priesthood and girded yourself with good conscience. Therefore, you came to draw ineffable things from the chosen vessel, Paul. You have completed the race, you have kept the faith. O father Hierotheus, beg Christ our God to save our souls.

 

Kontakion

We honor you, O bishop of Athens, for we have learned marvelous and ineffable mysteries from you. You are an author of divine hymns. Intercede that we may be delivered from our sins; O most venerable Hierotheus, we cry out: Rejoice, O holy and most wise father.

 

Epistle

Philippians 1: 12-20a

Brothers and sisters, I want you to know that my situation has worked out to be furtherance of the gospel. My imprisonment in Christ’s cause has become well known throughout the praetorium here, and to others as well; most of my brothers in Christ, taking courage from my chains, have been further emboldened to speak the word of God fearlessly. It is true, some preach Christ from motives of envy and rivalry, but others so do out of good will. Some act from unaffected love, aware that my circumstances provide an opportunity to defend the gospel’s cause; others promote Christ, not from pure motives but as an intrigue against me, thinking that it will make my imprisonment even harsher. 

What of it? All that matters is that in any and every way, whether from specious motives or genuine ones, Christ is being proclaimed! That is what brings me joy. Indeed, I shall continue to rejoice, in the conviction that this will turn out to my salvation, thanks to your prayers and the support I receive from the Spirit of Jesus Christ. I firmly trust and anticipate that I shall never be put to shame for my hopes.

 

Gospel

Luke 6:47 – 7:1

The Lord said, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not put into practice what I teach you? Any man who desires to come to me will hear my words and put them into practice. I will show you with whom he is to be compared. He may be likened to the man who, in building a house, dug deeply and laid the foundation on a rock. When the floods came the torrent rushed in on that house, but failed to shake it because of its solid foundation. On the other hand, anyone who has heard my words but not put them into practice is like the man who built his house on the ground without any foundation. When the torrent rushed upon it, it immediately fell in and was completely destroyed.” When he had finished this discourse in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. 

 

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

 

Oct. 3 The Holy Bishop Martyr Dionysius the Areopagite

The holy bishop and martyr Dionysius the Areopagite was brought to the Christian faith by the preaching of the Apostle Paul. He remained a companion of Paul for three years, traveling and preaching the Gospel. St. Dionysius was made the first bishop of Athens. He was also present at the repose of the most holy Theotokos. The writings of St. Dionysius hold great significance to the church. Four books of his have survived to the present day: On the Celestial Hierarchy, On the Ecclesiastical Hierarchy, On the Names of God, and On Mystical Theology. 

 

Troparion

You learned goodness and practiced temperance. You robed yourself in the priesthood and girded yourself with good conscience. Therefore, you came to draw ineffable things from the chosen vessel, Paul. You have completed the race, you have kept the faith. O father Dionysius, beg Christ our God to save our souls.

 

Kontakion

In a spiritual way you passed through the gates of heaven, and you climbed to the third heaven with the apostle Paul. You were given a deep understanding of mystical things with which you have given light to the ignorant. For all of this we invoke you, O Dionysius. Rejoice, O father of all!

 

Epistle

Philippians 1: 8-14

Brothers and sisters: God himself can testify how much I long for each of you with the affection of Christ Jesus! My prayer is that your love may more and more abound, both in understanding and wealth of experience, so that with a clear conscience and blameless conduct you may learn to value the things that really matter, up to the very day of Christ. It is my wish that you may be found rich in the harvest of justice which Jesus Christ has ripened in you, to the glory and praise of God.

My brothers and sisters, I want you to know that my situation was worked out to the furtherance of the gospel. My imprisonment in Christ’s cause has become well known throughout the praetorium here, and to others as well; most of my brothers in Christ, taking courage from my chains, have been further emboldened to speak the word of God fearlessly. 

 

Gospel

Luke 6: 37-45

The Lord said, “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Pardon, and you shall be pardoned. Give, and it shall be given to you. Good measure pressed down, shaken together, running over, will they pour into the fold of your garment. For the measure you measure with will be measured back to you.”

Jesus also used images in speaking to them: “Can a blind man act as guide to a blind man? Will they not both fall into a ditch? A student is not above his teacher; but every student when he has finished his studies will be on a par with his teacher.

“Why look at the speck in your brother’s eye when you miss the plank in your own? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me remove the speck from your eye,’ yet fail yourself to see the plank lodged in your own? Hypocrite, remove the plank from your own eye first; then you will see clearly enough to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

“A good tree does not produce decayed fruit any more than a decayed tree produces good fruit. Each tree is known by its yield. Figs are not taken from thornbushes, nor grapes picked from brambles. A good man produces goodness from the good in his heart; an evil man produces evil out of his store of evil. Each man speaks from his heart’s abundance.”

 

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

 

Oct. 2 The Holy Priest-Martyr Cyprian; The Holy Martyr Justina; The Holy Andrew, Fool for Christ

The holy priest-martyr Cyprian was originally a pagan magician, in league with evil spirits. He was converted by the words and example of St. Justina and became a bishop of the church. He was beheaded with Justina in Nicomedia in 258.

The holy martyr Justina was brought to faith in Christ and then brought the same faith to her whole family. She was martyred with bishop Cyprian in Nicomedia in 258.

The holy Andrew, fool for Christ, was a Slav by birth. He was bought as a slave and brought to Constantinople during the reign of emperor Leo the Wise. He was a man beautiful in body and in soul, and was moved to adopt the ascesis of folly for Christ’s sake. Feigning madness in the daytime and praying all night, he became a wonderworker in Constantinople. In the year 911, he entered into the rest of the Lord. 

 

Troparion

You shared in the apostles’ way of life and succeeded to their throne, divinely inspired bishop. You found access to contemplation in the active life. Therefore, you rightly taught the word of truth and struggled for the faith to the shedding of your blood. O Priest-Martyr Cyprian, pray to Christ our God to save our souls. 

 

Kontakion

You renounced the magic arts in order to learn of God, and you became on of the wisest men on earth, healing those who venerate you and Justina. Join her in seeking salvation for us from Christ our God. 

 

Epistle

Philippians 1: 1-7

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the holy ones at Philippi, with their bishops and deacons in Christ Jesus. Grace and peace be yours from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ!

I give thanks to my God every time I think of you–which is constantly, in every prayer I utter–rejoicing, as I plead on your behalf, at the way you have all continually helped promote the gospel from the very first day.

I am sure of this much: that he who has begun the good work in you will carry it through to completion, right up to the day of Christ Jesus. It is only right that I should entertain such expectations in your regard since I hold all of you dear–you who, to a man, are sharers of my gracious lot when I lie in prison or am summoned to defend the solid grounds on which the gospel rests.

 

Gospel

Luke 6: 24-31

The Lord said to the people who came to him: “Woe to you rich, for your consolation is now. Woe to you who are full; you shall go hungry. Woe to you who laugh now; you shall weep in your grief. Woe to you when all speak well of you. Their fathers treated false prophets in just this way.

“To you who hear me, I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you; bless those who curse you and pray for those who maltreat you. When someone slaps you on one cheek, turn and give him the other; when someone takes your coat, let him have your shirt as well. Give to all who beg from you. When a man takes what is yours, do not demand it back. Do to others what you would have them do to you.”

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

Oct. 1 The Protection of the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary; The Holy Apostle Ananias; Our Venerable Father Romanus the Hymnographer

The Protection of the Theotokos: On Oct. 1, 911 during the reign of emperor Leo the Wise, there was an all-night vigil in the Blanchernae church of the Theotokos in Constantinople. Standing near the rear of the church was St. Andrew the Fool for Christ, and his disciple Epiphanius. At four o’clock in the morning, the Theotokos appeared above the people with a veil spread over her outstretched hands, as if to protect them. She was surrounded by angels and saints. Seeing this, Andrew asked his disciple, “Do you see the Queen and Lady of all is praying for the whole world?” Epiphanius answered, “I do see, holy Father, and I am in awe.”

The holy apostle Ananias was one of the Seventy Apostles and the first Bishop of Damascus. The Lord ordered him to restore the sight of Saul, the former persecutor of Christians, then baptized him (Acts 9:10-19, 22:12). Saul became the great preacher and Apostle Paul. St. Ananias boldly and openly confessed Christianity before the Jews and the pagans, despite the danger. 

Our venerable father Romanus the Melodist was a deacon who inherited the name “the Melodist” from his sublime art in composing ecclesiastical hymns in honor of the Lord and the saints during the 5th century.

 

Troparion of the Theotokos

Protected by your appearance, O Theotokos; today, we devout people solemnly celebrate. Gazing upon your most pure icon, we fervently say: Protect us with your holy veil, and deliver us from all evil, imploring your Son, Christ our God, to save our souls. 

 

Troparion – Apostle

O holy Apostle Ananias, intercede with the merciful God that He may grant our souls forgiveness of sins.

 

Troparion – Venerable

In you, O father, the divine image was strictly preserved; taking up your cross, you followed Christ. You taught us by example how to spurn the flesh, for it passes away, and how to care for the soul, which is immortal. Therefore, O venerable Romanus, your soul rejoices with the angels. 

Kontakion of the Theotokos

Today the Virgin is present in the Church, and with the choirs of saints, invisibly prays to God for us. The angels rejoice with the prophets; because the Theotokos prays for us to the eternal God. 

 

Kontakion – Apostle

In warmest prayers O Intercessor, and asking a speedy hearing, accept our prayers, O Ananias, and pray to Christ to have mercy on us, O unique one reposed among the saints. 

 

Kontakion – Venerable

You were adorned from childhood with the divine virtues of the spirit, O All-Wise Romanus, you were a precious adornment of the church of Christ. For you made it lovely with beautiful hymnody. Therefore we pray to you; Grant your divine gift to those who desire it. That we may cry out to you: Rejoice O All-blessed Father, beauty of the church. 

 

Epistle 

Epistle

2 Corinthians 9: 6-11

Brothers and sisters: Let me say this much: He who sows sparingly will reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will reap bountifully. Everyone must give according to what he has inwardly decided; not sadly, not grudgingly, for God loves a cheerful giver. God can multiply  his favors among you so that you may always have enough of everything and even a surplus for good works, as it is written: “He scattered abroad and gave to the poor, his justice endures forever.” He who supplies seed for the sower and bread for the eater will provide in abundance; he will multiply the seed you sow and increase your generous yield. In every way your liberality is enriched; through us it results in thanks offered to God.

Hebrews 9: 1-7

Brothers and sisters: The first covenant had regulations and an earthly sanctuary. For a tabernacle was constructed, the outer one, in which were the lampstand, the table, and the showbread; this was called the holy place. Behind the second veil was the tabernacle called the holy of holies, in which were the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant entirely covered with gold. In the ark were the golden jars containing manna, the rod of Aaron which had blossomed, and the tablets of the covenant. Above the ark were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the place of expiation. We cannot speak now of each of these in detail. These were the arrangements for worship. In performing their service the priests used to go into the inner one, and that but once a year, with the blood which he offered for himself and for the sins of the people. 

 

Gospel

Gospel

Luke 6: 31-36

The Lord said, “Do to others as you would have them do to you. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, how can you claim any credit? Sinners do as much. If you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what merit is there in it for you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full.

“Love your enemy and do good; lend without expecting repayment. Then will your recompense be great. You will rightly be called sons of the Most High, since he himself is good to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be compassionate, as your Father is compassionate.”

Luke 10: 38-42, 11: 27-28

At that time Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed him to her home. She had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and listened to his words. Martha, who was busy with all the details of hospitality, came to Jesus and said, “Lord, are you not concerned that my sister has left me to do the household tasks all alone? Tell her to help me.”

The Lord in reply said to her: “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and upset about many things; one thing only is required. Mary has chosen the better portion and she shall not be deprived of it.”

While he was saying this a woman from the crowd called out, “Blest is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!” Jesus replied, “Rather, blest are they who hear the word of God and keep it.”

Sunday Bulletin 10/1/23

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Saturday, Sept 30  –  Gregory the Illuminator, Bishop-Martyr      

5:00 PM          Santa Paula Outreach Divine Liturgy

Sunday, Oct 1  –  18th Sunday after Pentecost / The Feast of the Protection of the Theotokos       

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy

12:00 PM        Parish Feast and Family Day Celebration

Monday, Oct 2  –  Cyprian, Bishop-Martyr           

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

4:00 PM          Evening Prayer

5:30 PM          Akathist* for those suffering Addictions & Mental Illness

Wednesday, Oct 4  –  Hierotheus, Bishop-Martyr; Francis of Assisi       

8:30 AM          Morning Prayer

6:30 PM          Divine Liturgy            Maddie Hebert from Rick White

7:30 PM          Firepit Social

Saturday, Oct 7  –  Sergius and Bacchus, Martyrs            

5:00 PM          Santa Paula Outreach Divine Liturgy

6:30 PM          Reader Vespers

Sunday, Oct 8  –  19th Sunday after Pentecost            

8:30 AM          Matins

9:30 AM          Divine Liturgy 

*Add first names to this prayer service by emailing niemirick@gmail.com

MYSTERY OF REPENTANCE (Confession)

St. Mary’s: Sundays 8:45 AM or by appointment

Santa Paula: Saturdays 4:15 PM or by appointment

PRAYER REQUESTS

(Please resubmit or submit names to admin@ByzantineLA.com)

The Carlin Family, Michael Hefferon, Shirley Kunze, Michael Mina, Peter Mina, Fr. John Mina, Mila Mina, Lana Zimmerman, Patrick Zimmerman, Shannon O’Neill, Fern Bonowicz, All the sick and suffering of St. Mary’s

WEEKLY DEPOSIT:

Collection: $1,405.00; Santa Paula: $860.00; Candles: $36.00; Parish Socials: $100.00

Total: $2,401 / Attendance – PSM: 63 VCO: 64  

“Therefore be merciful, even as your Father is also merciful.” Our Lord teaches us how to love one another in today’s Gospel, taking us beyond our human understanding of only being good to those who do good to us. Monasticism and holy orders are special paths to give one’s life to all people. Is this something that God may have in store for your life? Contact the Vocations Office at 206-329-9219 or email: vocations@ephx.org

 

Holy Protection of the Mother of God (Oct. 1)

From time immemorial, the Church has celebrated the Most-holy Theotokos as the patroness and protectress of the Christian people, who, by her intercessory prayers, implores God’s mercy for us sinners. The help of the Most-holy Mother of God has been clearly shown numerous times, to individuals and to nations, in peace and in war, in monastic deserts and in densely populated cities. The event that the Church commemorates and celebrates today confirms the Theotokos’ consistent protection of Christian people. On October 1, 911 A.D., during the reign of Emperor Leo the Wise, there was an All-night Vigil in the Blachernae Church of the Mother of God in Constantinople. The church was full of people. St. Andrew the Fool-for-Christ was standing in the rear of the church with his disciple Epiphanius. At four o’clock in the morning, the Most-holy Theotokos appeared above the people, holding her omophorion (veil) outstretched as a protective covering for the faithful. She was clothed in gold-encrusted purple, and shone with an ineffable radiance, surrounded by apostles, saints, martyrs and virgins. St. Andrew said to Blessed Epiphanius: “Do you see, brother, the Queen and Lady of all praying for the whole world?” Epiphanius replied: “I see, Father, and am struck with amazement!” The Feast of the Protection was instituted to commemorate this event, and to remind us that we can prayerfully receive the unceasing protection of the Most-holy Theotokos in any time of difficulty.

-From the Prologue of Ohrid

God With Us Online

God With Us Online has several new courses beginning in October.

The House of the Lord: A Biblical Catechesis on the Temple is an exciting study on the theology of God’s dwelling with us in the temples of the Old and New Testaments. Classes are held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from October 2023-June 2024, 4-5pm PST. The instructor for this course, Dr. Steven Smith, PhD, is the author of the books The Word of the Lord, The House of the Lord, and The Face of the Lord.

Synodality and the Christian East: Past, Present, & Future asks, what is the meaning of Synodality in the Christian East? How are Eastern Catholic Churches called to faithfully follow the synodal way in Christ? Classes are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month, October through December 2023 4-5pm PST. The hosts of Becoming Byzantine; Fr. Daniel Dozier, Fr. Deacon Anthony Dragani, Mr. Robert Klesko, and Fr. Michael Winn lead this discussion.

Registration begins Oct. 1; register online at godwithusonline.org

Sept. 30 The Holy Martyr Gregory, Bishop of Armenia

The holy martyr Gregory, bishop of Armenia, who after many labors withdrew into a cave near the confluence of tributaries of the Euphrates and there rested in peace in 332. He is called “the Illuminator” and is considered the apostle to the Armenians. 

 

Troparion

Today we faithful are invited to sign a hymn, to exalt with love in our assembly the daystar of the Unsetting Light, the long-suffering shepherd, the truly heroic pastor, the model of ascetics and martyrs, the radiant glory of the Church of Armenia. Let us bless with hymns of praise the divinely inspired Gregory who is adorned with the martyr’s crown. 

 

Kontakion

O faithful, let us extol today with hymns and spiritual songs the glorious Priest-Martyr Gregory, the shepherd of souls and powerful teacher, the bright star and fighter for truth. He intercedes with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. 

 

Epistle

1 Corinthians 15: 39-45

Brothers and sisters: Not all bodily nature is the same. Men have one kind of body, animals another. Birds are of their kind, fish are of theirs. There are heavenly bodies and there are earthly bodies. The splendor of heavenly bodies is one thing, that of the earthly another. The sun has a splendor of its own, so has the moon, and the stars have theirs. Even among the stars, one differs from another in brightness. So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown in the earth is subject to decay, what rises is incorruptible. What is sown is ignoble, what rises is glorious. Weakness is sown, strength rises up. A natural body is put down and a spiritual body comes up. If there is a natural body, be sure there is also a spiritual body. Scripture has it that Adam, the first man, became a living soul; the last Adam has become a life-giving spirit.

 

Gospel

Luke 5: 17-26

One day Jesus was teaching, and the power of the Lord made him heal. Sitting close by were Pharisees and teachers of the law who had come from every village of Galilee and from Judea and Jerusalem. Some men came along carrying a paralytic on a mat. They were trying to bring him in and lay him before Jesus; but they found no way of getting him through because of the crowd, so they went up on the roof. There they let him down with his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd before Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus said, “My friend, your sins are forgiven you.”

The scribes and the Pharisees began a discussion, saying: ‘Who is this man who utters blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” Jesus, however, knew their reasoning and answered them by saying: “Why do you harbor these thoughts? Which is easier to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? In any case, to make it clear to you that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – he then addressed the paralyzed man: “I say to you, get up! Take your mat with you, and return to your house.”

At once the man stood erect before them. He picked up the mat he had been lying on and went home praising God. At this they were all seized with astonishment. Full of awe, they gave praise to God, saying, “We have seen incredible things today!”

 

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

 

Sept. 29 Our Venerable Father Cyriacus the Anchorite

Our venerable father Cyriacus the anchorite was born in Corinth of a Christian family, he left to go to Jerusalem and entered the monastery. He learned at the feet of saints such as Euthymius and Gerasimos. He was famous for his silence, his asceticism, and his zeal for the Orthodox faith. 

 

Troparion

You made the wilderness your dwelling, O father Cyriacus, the bearer of God. You became an angel in the flesh and a wonderworker. Through prayers, fast, and vigils, you obtained from God special graces to heal the sick and to sanctify the souls of those who come to you with trust. Glory to the One who gave you strength! Glory to the One who crowned you! Glory to the One who through your intercession grants healing to all!

 

Kontakion

The holy lavra always honors you as a powerful protector and advocate, and yearly celebrates your memory. But since you have confidence before the Lord, keep us safe from our enemies, so that we may cry out: Rejoice, O thrice-blessed Father.

 

Epistle

Ephesians 6: 18-24

Brothers and sisters: At every opportunity pray in the Spirit, using prayers and petition of every sort. Pray constantly and attentively for all in the holy company. Pray for me that God may put his words on my lips, that I may courageously make known the mystery of the gospel–that mystery for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may have courage to proclaim it as I ought. 

Tychicus, my dear brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will keep you informed as to how I am and what I am doing. I have sent him to you for the very purpose of giving you news about me for your hearts’ consolation.

May God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ grant the brothers peace and love and faith. Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with unfailing love.

 

Gospel

Luke 6: 17-23

At that time coming down the mountain with them, Jesus stopped at a level stretch where there were many of his disciples; a large crowd of people was with them from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coast of Tyre and Sidon, people who came to hear him and be healed of their diseases. Those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured; indeed, the whole crowd was trying to touch him because power went out from him which cured all. Then, raising his eyes to his disciples, he said: “Blest are you poor, the reign of God is yours. Blest are you who hunger; you shall be filled. Blest are you who are weeping; you shall laugh. Blest shall you be when men hate you, when they ostracize you and insult you and proscribe your name as evil because of the Son of Man. On the day they do so, rejoice and exult, for your reward shall be great in heaven.”

 

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

 

Sept. 28 Our Venerable Father and Confessor Chariton; Holy Wenceslaus, Prince of the Czechs; The Holy Prophet Baruch

Our venerable father and confessor Chariton was abbot in the Old Lavra near Bethlehem in Palestine during the 4th century. He was diligent in prayer and fasting, and founded many lavras in the desert before his falling asleep in the Lord in 362.

The holy martyr Wenceslaus, prince of the Czechs, was the leader of the Bohemians. He was trained in divine and human wisdom by his grandmother St. Ludmilla. He was severe toward himself but gentle in ruling his kingdom and merciful to the poor. He redeemed in large numbers pagan slaves about to be sold so that they might be baptized. After enduring many difficulties in ruling his subjects and in spreading the faith, he was betrayed by his brother Boleslaus and killed by assassins in a church in Old Boleslavia (modern-day Altbunzlau) in Bohemia in the year 929. 

The holy prophet Baruch was a disciple and faithful friend of the prophet Jeremiah. He foretold the return of the Jews from the Babylonian captivity, and the coming of the Son of God on earth. It is held that he was killed by the Jews from Egypt, as was the prophet Jeremiah, in the seventh century before Christ. 

 

Troparion

Your abundant tears made the wilderness bloom, and your deep sighing made your labor fruitful a hundredfold. You became a star shining over the world with miracles, holy father Chariton. Pray to Christ God that He may save our souls. 

 

Kontakion

O divinely minded Chariton, you found your delight in the monastic life. You conquered the passions of your body and increased in faith; you blossomed forth like the Tree of Life in the midst of paradise, O most blessed and holy father.  

 

Epistle

2nd Corinthians 4: 6-15

Brothers and sisters: God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts, that we in turn might make known the glory of God shining on the face of Christ. This treasure we possess in earthen vessels to make it clear that its surpassing power comes from God and not from us. We are afflicted in every way possible, but we are not crushed; full of doubts, we never despair. We are persecuted but never abandoned; we are struck down but never destroyed. Continually, we carry about in our bodies the dying of Jesus, so that in our bodies the life of Jesus may also be revealed. While we live we are constantly being delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be revealed in our mortal flesh. Death is at work in us, but life in you. We have that spirit of faith which the Scripture says, “Because I believed, I spoke out.” We believe and so we speak, knowing that he who raised up the Lord Jesus will raise us up along with Jesus and place both us and you in his presence. Indeed, everything is ordered to your great benefit, so that the grace bestowed in abundance may bring greater glory to God because they who give thanks are many.

 

Gospel

Luke 6: 17-23

At that time, coming down the mountain with the Twelve, Jesus stopped at a level to stretch where there were many of his disciples; a large crowd of people was with them from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coast of Tyre and Sidon, people who came to hear him and be healed of their diseases. Those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured; indeed, the whole crowd was trying to touch him because power went out from him which cured all. Then, raising his eyes to his disciples, he said: “Blest are you poor; the reign of God is yours. Blest are you who hunger; you shall be filled. Blest are you who are weeping; you shall laugh. Blest shall you be when men hate you, when they ostracize you and insult you and proscribe your name as evil because of the Son of Man. On the day they do so, rejoice and exult, for your reward shall be great in heaven.”

 

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