Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church

The

EPISTLE

Annunciation

December 2017

Greek Orthodox Church 573 N Highland Street Memphis, TN 38122

Contact us at: (901) 327-8177 phone (901) 327-4440 fax www.goann.net [email protected]

Sunday Services: Orthros † 8:45 am Divine Liturgy † 10:00 am

Church Office Hours: Mon–Thurs † 8:30am–4:30pm Friday † 8:30am–12:30pm

Parish Assembly December 10th † Following Liturgy The Parish Assembly to present and approve the budget for 2018 will take place on this day. Materials have been mailed.

Christmas Services

Featured Activities This Month AHEPA Pancake Breakfast

Sunday, December 3rd Following the Divine Liturgy † Cotros Hall The AHEPA will prepare their famous pancakes for the annual Pancake Breakfast in honor of Saint Nicholas. Donations go to the St. Nicholas National Shrine at Ground Zero in New York City.

Blessing of the Pets

Saturday, December 16th @ 10:00 am † Patio Outside Cotros Hall Join us for our annual blessing of the animals and all Creation, sponsored by the Elpis. We will celebrate the Blessing of the Waters, and each pet will receive a special blessing. Friends are welcome!

Parish Christmas Program

Sunday, December 17th Following Divine Liturgy † Church Sanctuary The youth of our Parish use their talents to share the story of the Nativity in action, music, and song. Join us for this beautiful presentation.

Christmas Parties DOP & Elpis Christmas Party

Saturday, December 9th @ 11:30 pm † Ridgeway Country Club The annual joint Christmas Party for the DOP & Elpis. Lunch is $30/ December 24-25 † Various Services person (RSVP may be closed!) Please contact Phani Mitchell for more The schedule for Christmas Services information. has been mailed. Please see the Parish Calendar enclosed in this mailing AHEPA Christmas Party as well for dates and times of ser- Saturday, December 16th @ 3:00 pm † Home of John & Nancy Kay vices. The annual AHEPA Christmas Party. Spouses are invited. RSVP to John Kay.

Christmas Holiday

Youth Section

December 25th † All Day Our Parish will observe the Christmas Holiday. The Church Office GOYA/JOY Christmas Caroling will close on Monday and Tuesday. Sunday, December 17th @ 3:00 pm † Various Locations please contact Father Simon directly Our annual Christmas Caroling outing. The bus leaves the Annunciain case of an emergency requiring tion Church parking lot at 3:00 pm sharp! Bring your Christmas cheer! pastoral care.

Hierarchs of the Parish

Young Adult Ministries

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople Archbishop Elder Demetrios of America Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit

Young Adult League…………………..Alexis Moore OCF @ Ole Miss……………………..Blaise Brackett

Parish Clergy Rev. Father Simon Thomas, Parish Priest Rev. Father Nicholas Vieron, Pastor Emeritus

Office Personnel Erin Bobbitt de Padilla, Office Assistant

Parish Council Ted Poplos – President Naji Nassif – Vice President Endy Carter – Secretary Maria Moore – Treasurer Chris Apalodimas Demie Bitinis Bill Joyner Diane Kavaleras John Kay James “Pete” Ruby Vasili Semos Harry Sinis

Music Ministry Choir Director & Organist……….DoraThea Kastanas Chanter Director…………………….Andrew Horvath

Youth Ministries Acolytes……………………………..Daniel Shipman Sunday School Director……………….….Anna Paris Pre-K/K…………………….. Anna Paris, Naji Nassif 1-2……………… Kristine Wagner, Christina George 3-4……………... Stephanie Johnson, Pannay Guigley 5-6……….………...Renee Graves, Alexia Loughman 7-8…………………. Ken Hoover, Gabriella Stroplos 9-12……………...Ted Poplos, Elizabeth Hawkins, Chris Apalodimas, and Brian Berretta GOYA Coordinators………..Andrew & Tina Douglas JOY Coordinator……..………………....Kellye Farris Oratorical Festival……………….…..Kathy Zambelis Athenian Dance Troupe……Andrew & Leah Horvath Christmas Program………………………Ken Hoover St. Nicholas Summer Camp……………Father Simon

Seniors Ministries Young at Heart………………………Kathy Zambelis

Elpis Philoptochos President…………………………..Elizabeth Hawkins Vice President……………………...Marianthe Pilcher Secretary………………………………..Joanne Gikas Treasurer……………………………….Anne Schmitt Committee Leaders: Altar Committee………………..Laura Couloubaritsis Cookbook…………………………………Elaine Otto Elpis Bookstore.Angela Tobias & Connie Apalodimas Food Pantry……………………………….Anna Paris Makaria Coordinator………………Marianthe Pilcher More Than a Meal……………………….Cyndi Detty Prayer Circle……………………………Luane Semos Sunshine Committee……………………….Zoe Futris Visitation Committee………………..Kristine Wagner

Memphis Greek Festival Festival Director……………………..Todd Bagatelas

Greek Language Greek School Teacher…………………Despina Karas Adult Greek Class……………Father Nicholas Vieron

Organizations AHEPA……………………………………..John Kay DOP…………………………………..Phani Mitchell

Parish Library Docent…………………………………..Billy Benson

Approaching Christmas As a Child One of my first memories of Christmas is my brother excitedly waking me up about 6:30 on Christmas morning saying, “Do you want to know what you got!? I unwrapped everything, but don’t worry, I taped it all up again.” I was about 8 years old at the time, making him about 10. I wasn’t upset with him. Rather, I was amused, and vicariously experiencing his excitement. The kid in him always came out at Christmas. I enjoy Christmas, but he enjoyed it that much more.

Christmas is a busy, and for many, a stressful time of year. Our calendars are packed full with shopping, cooking, parties, extra church services, Christmas cards, on top of our regular schedule. As adults, the Christmas Season can lose the luster it had when we were children.

“For the Son of God became man so that we might become God.”

Children await Christmas with awe and wonder, excitedly counting down the days. Their innocence leaves no room for judgment of others, for frustration, for the attitude of a scrooge. They trust that “Santa will come with presents,” which for them is the expression and joy of their faith in the Nativity of Christ.

-Saint Athanasius the Great

The reality of the Nativity of Christ is that He came as a Child! The Creator of the world and King of all came not as a fully grown warrior to conquer and overcome, but in humility as a newborn babe. When we look upon the manger scene, we should have more than just sentimentality – we should have peace, joy, and fulfillment. This is what we worship – that the salvation of humankind has come as one of us, to be with us! I pray that this year we all approach the Nativity of Christ through the eyes of a child – with wonder, with love, and with excitement. May we make room in our hearts to truly receive Christ, so that He may dwell in us! With Love in Christ,

Rev. Father Simon Thomas Parish Priest

On the Incarnation “And the Word became flesh! … in order to make us earthly beings into heavenly ones, in order to make sinners into saints; in order ot raise us up from corruption to incorruption, from earth to heaven; from enslavement to sin and the devil to the glorious freedom of children of God; from death to immortality, in order to make us sons of God and to seat us together with Him upon the throne as His royal children. ~Saint John of Kronstadt Sermon on the Nativity

President’s Message December 2017 It does not seem like a year has passed but it has. As I sit in reflection, I think it has been a good year with a lot of progress in our community. I personally want to thank my fellow council members and you the community for allowing me to be your president this past year. I have enjoyed communicating with you for these past 11 months. What encourages me most about the future of our parish is looking out into the congregation and seeing all the young couples with their children in the pews. We have added many new congregants this past year and according to Fr. Simon, he has at least one person a month interested in becoming Orthodox. That is a positive trend that I hope continues for many years to come. I hope that in the midst of this busy season that you will take a few minutes to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. I myself find that I lose track often that we are celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior. I would like to slow down a bit to do that and I hope that you are able to do so much better than me. I look forward to watching our wonderful children tell us about the birth of Christ during the Christmas program on December 17th. Best show in town and it is free. See you all on the 17th. Our GOYA will once again travel the county caroling to our shut ins on the 17th. If you want them to come to your house, contact the office or the GOYA advisors. My final wish for all of you is that you have a blessed Christmas with family and friends. I hope to see you at the Christmas reception following the Liturgy on Christmas eve. It has always been one of my favorite services even back from my days in college because people that are out of town are often back in town. I always enjoy seeing our young college students back in town. I will be looking forward to hearing about your college experience.

November Notices 40 Day Blessings: Presvytera Stephanie Thomas & Christos, Sunday, November 19th Chrismations: Ryan & Amanda Minks, Sunday, November 26 Weddings: Nader Khalaf & Toni Francks, Friday, November 17

May the blessings of the Lord be upon you and your family this Christmas sea- Memorials Contributions (In Memory Of): son. Katherine Futris by: Evan & Patricia Liollio, In His service, George Karkatsugas, Ted Poplos Presvytera Bess Vieron by: the family of Al Ruscyk, Col.(Ret.) & Mrs. Robert S. Poydasheff

Hosting Coffee Fellowship after Liturgy The Parish Council invites members to volunteer to host a Coffee Fellowship Hour in Cotros Hall during this Ecclesiastical Year. The intent is to offer refreshments of your choice that will encourage social interaction among the membership, and opportunities to meet and greet visitors and new members. The coffee, sugar/ sweetener, napkins, plates, cups and utensils are provided by the Church. Please bring creamer and juice. This is a great opportunity to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or to honor a loved one. Photos/memorabilia are encouraged for a table display. Families or groups of individuals can co-host as well. After you have confirmed your date, please contact Diane Kavelaras, your Coffee Fellowship Coordinator at 901-3833343. Coffee will always be available when there is no host. Thank you for your consideration and hopeful participation.

Annunciation Prayer List “Pray for one another, that you may be healed” (James 5:16). Prayer is an important resource for those who are in need. Please contact Father Simon or the Church Office to add/remove someone from the list. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Archbishop Demetrios of America Metropolitan Nicholas of Detroit Father Simon & Presvytera Stephanie and children Father Nicholas & family Parishioners of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church Metropolitan Paul (Yazge) of Aleppo Archbishop Youhanna Ibrahim (Syriac) of Aleppo Nick, Helen, Diana, Alec, Maria, Zoe, Ronnie, Jeffrey, Toni, Sandy, Cornelia, Kosta, George, Sarantos, Alex, Nicholas

Volunteers for December Acolytes:

Lee Couloubaritsis Austin Detty Jackson Detty John Donnelly Nick Douglas

John Eramo Luke Farris Max Graves Jonathan Holland Vasili Johnson

Epistle Readers: December 3: Maria Moore December 10: Sophia Douglas December 17: Cathe Skefos

Jonathan Mehrotra Jack Shipman Abiel Tesfazion Demetri Thomas David Wassef

December 24: Scott McKee December 31: Paul Vieron

Prosphoro Makers: Enosis Touliatos Ushers: December 3 Team 4: Endy Carter & Vasili Semos December 10 Team 1: Maria Moore & Bill Joyner

December 17 Team 2: Naji Nassif, Diane Kavelaras, Demie Bitinis December 24 Team 3: Chris Apalodimas, John Kay December 31 Team 4: Endy Carter & Vasili Semos

Greeters: Coffee Fellowship Hosts: December 3: St. Nicholas Pancake Breakfast hosted by AHEPA December 10: Hosted by Mitchell Family to honor Kristin on the day of her Chrismation December 17: DOP Bake Sale

December 24: Special Coffee Hour December 31: OPEN

Saint Herman of Alaska December 13th Venerable Herman of Alaska, Wonderworker of America, was part of a spiritual mission organized in 1793 with volunteers from the monks of the Valaam Monastery. They were sent to preach the Word of God to the native inhabitants of northwestern Alaska, who had come under the sovereignty of Russia only ten years before. Saint Herman came from a family of merchants. He had a great zeal for piety from his youth, and he entered monastic life at sixteen. Five or six years later, he transferred to the Valaam Monastery, which was widely scattered on the large islands in the waters of the great Lake Ladoga. Recognizing the zeal of the young hermit the wise Elder, Father Nazarius, blessed him to live in the wilderness. This wilderness was in the deep forest about a mile from the monastery. To this day this place has retained the name ‘Herman’s Field.’ On holy days, Father Herman returned to the monastery from the wilderness. In the second half of the eighteenth century the borders of Russia expanded to the north. In those years Russian merchants discovered the Aleutian Islands which formed in the Pacific Ocean a chain from the eastern shores of Kamchatka to the western shores of North America. With the blessing of the Holy Synod, Metropolitan Gabriel gave to the Elder Nazarius the task of selecting capable persons from the brethren of Valaam to send missionaries. Ten men were selected, who left Valaam for the place of their great appointment in 1793, among whom was Father Herman. As a result of their work, several thousand of the First Peoples accepted Christianity. A school for the education of newly-baptized children was organized, and a church was built at the place where the missionaries lived. But after five years of very productive labor, Archimandrite Joasaph, who had just been elevated to the rank of bishop, was drowned with his party. Before this the zealous Priest-monk Juvenal was granted the martyr’s crown. The others died one after another until in the end only Father Herman remained. The Lord permitted him to labor longer than any of his brethren in the apostolic task of enlightening the Aleutians. Father Herman chose as his place of habitation Spruce Island. This island is separated by a strait about a mile and a quarter wide from Kodiak Island on which had been built a wooden monastery and a wooden church dedicated to the Resurrection of the Savior. Spruce Island is not large, and is almost completely covered by a forest. Almost through its middle a small brook flows to the sea. For more than forty years Father Herman lived here. Father Herman tended a garden, collected seaweed, and tended to other labors to survive. Once, someone saw him carrying a large log which normally would be carried by four men; and he was bare footed. His clothes were the same for winter as for summer. The Elder acted as a protector to the native peoples. He always interceded before the governors on behalf of those who had transgressed, and defended those who had been offended. He helped those who were in need with whatever means he had available. The Aleuts, men, women and children, often visited him. Some asked for advice, others complained of oppression, others sought out defense, and still others desired help. Each one received the greatest possible satisfaction from the Elder. On Spruce Island there once occurred a flood. The inhabitants came to the Elder in great fear. Father Herman then took an icon of the Mother of God from the house where his students lived and placed it on a sandy bank and began to pray. After his prayer, he turned to those present and said, “Have no fear -- the water will go no higher than the place where this holy icon stands.” The words of the Elder were fulfilled. The time of the Elder's passing had come. One day he ordered his disciple Gerasim to light a candle before the icons, and to read the Acts of the Holy Apostles. Thus in blessedness he passed away in the sleep of a righteous man in the eighty-first year of his life of great labor, the 13 of December, 1837.

Liturgical Calendar for December Sunday, December 3rd, Fourteenth Sunday of Luke Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8: 45 am Monday, December 4th, Feast of Saint Barbara Orthos 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Tuesday, December 5th Orthros 6:00 pm Divine Liturgy for Saint Nicholas 7:00 pm Sunday, December 10th, Tenth Sunday of Luke Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am

Sunday, December 17th, Eleventh Sunday of Luke Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Saturday, December 23rd Royal Hours 5:00 pm Sunday, December 24th, Christmas Eve Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Christmas Eve Vespers 7:00 pm Monday, December 25th, Christmas Day Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am

Wednesday, December 27, Feast of Saint Stephen Tuesday, December 12th, Feast of St. Spyridon the Orthros 9:00 am Wonderworker Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Thursday, December 31, Sunday Before Theophany Saturday, December 16th New Year’s Eve Blessing of the Pets 10:00 am Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am

Visitation Committee December: Anastasia Terranova & Athena Jamison January: Nancy Tashie, Jan Futris & Tina Liollio

November: Connie Cotros, Loretta Taras & Tasia Vergos

February: Vicki Hoover & Family

The following members of our parish family have requested visitation. For address and/or contact March: Linda Nichols, Anne Schmitt, & Debbie information please check your parish directory or Bookas contact the Church Office. April: Cary Chiungos & Mary Katherine Taras

Alec Collis May: Demie Bitinis, Tricia Grantham, Emily Ca- Larkin Griffin Sarantos Hatzigeougiou padalis Love, Georgia Karris

Diana Mazas Stella Nichols Kosta Taras

June: Despina Karas & Angela Tobias July: Maria Moore & Diane Kavelaras August: Stephanie Poplos & Friend September: Susanna Peters & Cathe Skefos October: Sophie Theodore & Kristine Wagner

Please contact Kristine Wagner if you would like to volunteer to be on the 2018-2019 Visitation Committee, a ministry of the Elpis Philoptochos.

Parish Ministries Philoptochos, Elpis Chapter #7041 First of all, many thanks to all of those who helped at our events and activities in November. A special gratitude is offered to the Touliatos Family and Friends who helped so selflessly for the Thanksgiving luncheon. It was such a wonderful event! Also on November 19th our parishioners served a Thanksgiving feast prepared by the Touliatoses to those at our monthly “More Than A Meal.” _____________________________________________________ We have lots going on this month! We’d love to see you at any of our events! Elpis and Daughters of Penelope Christmas Party Saturday, December 9 Ridgeway Country Club Join us for our annual Christmas Party on Saturday, December 9 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at Ridgeway Country Club. All are welcome to attend. Lunch is $30 per person. Click here to see the flyer for menu choices. The DOP will host their annual Christmas ornament exchange. If you wish to participate, bring a wrapped ornament to share. Elpis will sponsor a collection for their Christmas Charity. We will be collecting items for Community of St Therese of Lisieux - an organization helping victims of human trafficking. Click here to see the flyer for more information.

Please submit your RSVP to Phani Mitchell by Thursday, November 30. (901-854-4359 or [email protected]) _____________________________________________________ Check out what’s new in the bookstore! We have beautiful egg pendant necklaces for $15.00 The Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom $20.00 Hungry Orthodox Christian Reader $17.00 This reader is a sampler of books and types of Orthodox writings that are hidden. They are foundational and everyday samples of Orthodox readings. A great children’s book is, Every time I Do My Cross $20.00 If you just can’t decide, remember that we have Gift Certificates available in $10, $20 and $30. All proceeds benefit our scholarship fund! _____________________________________________________ On December 16th at 10am, we will again have our annual “Blessing of the Pets.” This will honor St. Modestos. Bring your pet to the church and Fr. Simon will offer a blessing. It’s on, rain or shine! Light refreshments will be served. _____________________________________________________ On December 17th, Elpis will once again partner with Grace-St. Luke’s parish in mid-town to serve those in need. If you wish to help, please join us there at 3pm. _____________________________________________________ This Christmas Eve, please join us after Vespers to celebrate with friends and family.

YOUNG ADULT LEAGUE Since 2013, we have been on the forefront of creating and shaping Christ-centered, Kingdom-oriented ministry that's been helping generations of Orthodox Christians around the world. Our Mission Y2AM helps introduce youth and young adults to Christ. Y2AM inspires them to live out their relationship with the Lord and His Church on a daily basis. We are a ministry team of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Take some time and listen to our Pop Culture Coffee Hour Podcasts at http://www.ancientfaith.com/ podcasts/popculture. Steven Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez talk about pop culture, theology, and whatever else is on their minds. They might even make you laugh. Maybe. “Pop Culture Coffee Hour” is a joint production of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and Ancient Faith Radio. Other Y2AM great resources: The YouTube Channel series: The Trench https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbyQMR-_r8bLfaqiwxQ9sOpKhtHuiia0m The Ladder: a Blog https://www.y2am.org/web/blog/y2am/theladder Please check back here and on the YAL Memphis Facebook Page for future events for our Young Adults.

YOUTH MINISTRIES Sunday School The Sunday School Program is for children from Pre-K (age 4 by September 1) through 12th grade. We meet every Sunday immediately following Holy Communion except during the Summer and certain Holidays. Sunday School News Dec. 3rd -last day of first semester Dec. 10th- Christmas Program practice in High School room Dec. 16th- Dress Rehearsal Dec.17th- Christmas Program Jan. 7th- classes resume after communion Students, please encourage your parents to bring you on practice days so we can have another wonderful program. Teachers Pre-K /KK 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5th/6th 7th/8th 9th-12th

Anna Paris, Naji Nassif Kristine Wagner, Christina George Stephanie Johnson, Pannay Guigley Renee Graves, Alexia Loughman Ken Hoover, Gabriella Stroplos Ted Poplos , Elizabeth Hawkins, Chris Apalodimas, and Brian Berretta

Note from Father Simon: It is important that the children and their teachers receive Holy Communion first, so they may have as much time as possible to learn about our precious Faith. Parents, since we are now saying the Prayers Before Holy Communion together, please wait until these prayers have been completed before taking your children to the Narthex to line them up for Holy Communion. Once our youth have received, the ushers will dismiss the faithful row by row. Thank you for your assistance!

HOPE/JOY Welcome to all the HOPE/JOY families at Annunciation! HOPE & JOY are the children’s ministries of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of American. HOPE is the ministry for the Kindergarten though 2nd grade children and JOY, the Junior Orthodox Youth, is the ministry for the 3rd through 6th grade children. Since HOPE & JOY are ministries, the programs reflect the Orthodox Christian Faith, Tradition and Life. Joy made care packages for the homeless in November. Jennifer Morris and her family headed up this worthwhile activity. We will be going caroling with Goya on Dec 17. Leaving the church around 3. Thanks so much, Kellye Farris

ATHENIAN DANCE TROUPE Sun, Jan 21: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Sun, Feb 4: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Sun, Feb 18: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Sun, March 4: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Sun, March 18: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Sat, March 24: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Sun, March 25: Greek Independence Day performance during luncheon Sat, April 14: 9:00 am - 12:00 Noon

Sun, April 15: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Sat, April 21: 9 am - 12:00 Noon Sun, April 22: 12:30 pm - 3 :00 pm Sat, May 5: 9 am - 12:00 Noon Sun, May 6: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Wed, May 9: Dress Rehearsal, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Fri, May 11: Greek Fest performance, 6:00 pm Sat, May 12: Greek Fest performances, 12:00 Noon & 6:00 pm

GOYA is open to all youth in grades 6th through 12th. We focus on fellowship, service, and how to bring our Orthodox teachings into our daily life. All are welcome!

Meeting, Making Prosfora Join us as we make prosfora for our community as a Christmas offering. Learn to make this special bread for the upcoming church services.

Christmas Program Our Sunday School students will be preforming their annual Christmas Program on December 17th after the Divine Liturgy. Please see Mr. Ken Hoover to be a part of this special event.

Christmas Caroling We will be caroling to members of our community. More details, including times, will follow.

On November 5, Mr. Demetri led a fantastic Y2AM on prayer and Father Simon joined our discussion. On November 19, we visited Elmwood Cemetery and explored the Greek portion of the cemetery; saw some city founders and civil war notables. Our tour guide, a cemetery historian, answered our questions and guided us through the landmark. It was an exciting and informative event! Also on November 19, several of our youth joined Elpis Philoptochos in serving meals to the hungry at More than a Meal. The experience made us all thankful for what we have.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS AHEPA/MEN’S GROUP

Welcome to AHEPA! AHEPA Mission statement:

To promote the ancient Hellenic ideals of education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, integrity, and family and individual excellence through community service and volunteerism.

AHEPA Christmas Party

Saturday, December 16th, 2017 3:00 pm at the home of John & Nancy Kay Please RSVP to John at 901-605-9831 or 901-835-5846 Spouses are invited.

DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE December 2017 The Daughters of Penelope, was founded in1929, in San Francisco, California. It was the realization of Alexandra Apostolides Sonenfeld’s dream to create a women’s organization comparable to her husband’s membership in AHEPA. The Daughters is the women’s organization of AHEPA. We share our Mission Statement: To promote Hellenism, Education, Philanthropy, Civic Responsibility, and Family & Individual Excellence. The Daughters would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all of our Parishioners for supporting our Annual Soup Sunday. We hold this event every year as a Fund Raiser for our Penelope House in Mobil, Alabama. With your generous donation, we were able to send $1,200 to Penelope House. As Phani commented, Penelope House is a shelter for women and children who are victims of Domestic violence. It is opened and staffed 365 days a year, 24/7. Every year numerous abused women and children pass through the doors crying for help. WHAT IS UP-COMING: On Saturday, December 9, the Daughters and Elpis will be celebrating their joint Christmas Party at the Ridgeway Country Club in Collierville. We had such a fun event last year we wanted to go back and once again have our joint celebration there. Ladies, do remember our Christmas Ornament Exchange is open to all. (Flyer attached). Reminder, reminder: our annual Christmas bake sale will be held on Sunday, December 17 right after the Christmas pageant along with our Sunday School and Greek School presentations. Once again, we will have Kourambiethes and Koulourakia along with a limited amount of Melomakarona. Please mark your calendar – Saturday, January 20, 2018, at 7:00pm, we are looking forward to a visit from Karen Batshaw, author of the book “Hidden in Plain Sight”. The story takes place in Greece starting in 1941. It talks about the German invasion and occupation of Greece during the war. In her book Karen introduces Anna a Jewish doctor and Alexander a handsome Greek Orthodox young man and also a doctor. The book was given a well-deserved 5 star rating. Many of the Daughters have read the book and as for myself, I learned so much about what took place in Greece during the war…..this information was most certainly not in my history books! I am so looking forward to meeting Karen. We are inviting all of our parishioners to come and meet Karen, too. We look forward to your attending. We will also be inviting the Jewish Community as well as the local colleges. Watch for more information about this event. (Flyer attached) Exciting news from Ole Miss and the Robinson Collection that is in their museum. With the monies they have from both our Daughters Group and AHEPA, two Greek vases are being conserved. (A very expensive process) The conservator is located in Athens, GA!!! By late January the conserved vases will be back and installed at the Museum. When Amy Abbe, the conservator returns these two vases, she will stay at Ole Miss for a short time to conserve and clean some of the marble sculptures and also have presentations. For more information, please contact Anastasia Terranova, 901-361-4382.

2017 Elpis Christmas Charity The Community of St Therese of Lisieux

This Christmas season, Elpis Philoptochos will be collecting items for the Community of St Therese of Lisieux - an organization to help victims of human trafficking. The Community of St Therese of Lisieux helps women transition from their human trafficking situation and helps bring some normalcy to their lives. Donations can include items for the shelter, their person, or financial (i.e., gift cards). Please bring any of the below items to the Christmas party on December 9 or to church on December 10. Items needed for the house: High-efficiency detergent, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, and paper towels Items needed for the victims: Journals, socks, feminine products, note cards and stamps, fun notepads, sweaters (med, large & x-large), pajamas, or other items everyone uses. Gift cards are also welcome. Keep in mind that, sadly, many of these women are between 14 and 30 years old. For more information about this worthy cause: https://lisieuxcommunity.org/

Please support our Christmas Charity

Parish Assembly Agenda December 10, 2017 1. Call to order 2. Opening prayer 3. Election of assembly chair 4. Election of assembly secretary 5. Approval of 2018 budget 6. Adjournment 7. Closing prayer

Due to changes in the Accounting System from PowerChurch to Quickbooks, we are unable to provide a yearly Budget Comparison Report. A copy of the 2017 Budget is available in the office or will be available at the Parish Assembly.

Blessing of the Animals Saturday, December 16th 10:00 AM

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, 573 N. Highland Ave.

Join us in the church parking lot for the blessing of the animals in honor of St. Modestos, the patron saint of animals. - All pets are welcome to come and be blessed by Father Simon Thomas. - Pets will be given a special treat bag. - Monetary donations will be accepted for Sunny Meadows, a local pet rescue organization. - Coffee, hot cocoa and a light breakfast snack will be provided.

Please bring your pets crated or leashed.

Daughters of Penelope Bake Sale Prices KOURAMBIETHES And

KOULOURAKIA 50 cents each $6.00 a dozen MELOMAKARONA $12.00 a dozen

Thank you for your purchase. Profits go to our Scholarship.

New Year’s Eve Party 2018! Make plans to be with your Annunciation family as we welcome in the 
 New Year. Father Simon will trade in his Sunday vestments 
 for an apron to prepare a delicious meal. 6:30 PM, Cocktails & Appetizers 8 PM Dinner; 9:30 PM Vasilopita Cutting DINNER MENU Prime Rib, Roasted Potatoes, Asparagus, Bread, Dessert Champagne, Sodas & Water included (BYOB) 2017 MASQUERADE BALL Adding a little extra FUN to our party, dress up and wear a mask to ring in the new year! Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church 573 N Highland Street, Memphis

Sunday, December 31, 2017 RSVP before December 28th Adults: $15 / Children: $10* / Family: $45 Event Limited to 150 Guests / No Tickets Sold at Door! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

# Adults

_________ x $15 = $________

# Children _________ x $10 = $________ Family of __________ x $45 = $________ Total (to Annunciation GOC) $________

If you would like to be seated next to or near another family, please make that notation below.

# Adults

_________ x $15 = $________

PLEASE ENCLOSE PAYMENT & SEND TO:

#ANNUNCIATION Children _________ GREEK ORTHODOX x $10 = $________ CHURCH Family of

573 N HIGHLAND STREET MEMPHIS, TN 38122= $________ __________ x $45

Reservations without payment will not be recorded

FRIENDS OF THE METROPOLIS When you support the Friends of the Metropolis campaign, you are part of a greater outreach that proclaims with one universal voice that God is truly our hope and our rock of salvation. Because of your devotion to the Friends program, ministries and programs are implemented on a Metropolis­wide basis which strengthen and enhance our faith and our joint ministry of service. I would like to invite you to join forces with the faithful throughout the Metropolis of Detroit in support of the ministries which are part of the Office of the Metropolitan. Thanking you for your kind and generous response, I remain, with paternal blessings and prayers, +NICHOLAS    Metropolitan of Detroit

MORE INFO AT: WWW.DETROIT.GOARCH.ORG / FRIENDS

General Support

 Fully fund the general expenses of the Metropolis office, including programs and travels.

Clergy/Parish Support

Develop and provide instructional seminars and services for clergy and parishes.

Outreach/Missions

Youth Ministries

Create opportunities to introduce our faith to society. Participate in inter­Christian and interfaith activities. Provide quick responses to national and international disasters.

Support the youth & young adult ministries, including our summer camps, as well as the activities of a full­time Metropolis Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries.

Education

Leadership

Enhance various  scholarship opportunities, adult education programs, and support Metropolis students at Hellenic College/Holy Cross.

Organize Clergy­Laity Conferences, Oratorical Festivals, Youth Worker and Religious Education Training, and Adult Education Seminars.

Hellenism

Special Programs

Develop programs for Hellenic Cultural Outreach, including language, history, and arts.

Continued website development, hospitality to visiting dignitaries, charity and philanthropy.

FRIENDS INFORMATION

PAYMENT INFORMATION

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Make checks payable to Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Detroit.

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Total in $ Signature Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Detroit - 2560 Crooks Road - Troy, MI 48084

Class sometimes fills up quickly, therefore, register now! First come, first served!

Next Class begins Monday, January 15, 2018 6:30pm

Phone (901) 355-2809

Instructor Fr. Nicholas L. Vieron

573 North Highland Memphis, Tennessee 38122

Sponsored by The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church

Adult Greek Class

Sharing His Love of Greece Earns Fr. Vieron Honor By CECELIA PAYNE WRITE

Press-Scimitar Staff Writer

Ever since 1972, the Rev. Nicholas Vieron, Pastor of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, has offered Memphis' non-Greek speaking community an opportunity to quench their curiosity for Greek Culture through a modern Greek course at his church. And although everybody who signs up for the 15-week Adult Greek Class each January might not finish with the certainty of becoming an ambassador to Greece, "they will learn to embrace a language and a culture that belongs to all of us," Vieron says. The pastor-teacher was honored this week for his efforts by Tennessee's National Council of State Supervisors of Foreign Languages, during National Foreign Language Week. "Some people who study Greek feel that in all aspects of

our Western Civilization, it is not true that all roads lead to Rome. They went farther east, toward Athens." Father Vieron said that some of the students who complete the course gain a 200 to 300 word Greek Vocabulary and are able to read the Lord's Prayer from the original Greek text. "I guess many of them feel that since God chose to talk to us in Greek, the least we can do is tune him in! Many of my students visit Greece and want to be able to speak, even if a little, in the language of that ancient past which belongs to our present." Press-Scimitar March7, 1981

Another reason the Press-Scimitar went out of business. It carried stories like this!

COMPLETE THIS REGISTRATION FORM WRITE OUT YOUR CHECK FOR ONE HUNDRED ($100) DOLLARS MAIL BOTH TO: THE ADULT GREEK CLASS 573 North Highland Memphis, TN 38122 Please make it a priority to attend the orientation session on Monday, January 15, 2018 at 6:30 PM

Mr. Mrs.

Why learn Greek?

If you are planning a trip to Greece, this 14 week course is a must! Another reason for taking this Class is to be able to read the New Testament in the original Greek text. Or, perhaps you have married into a Greek speaking family and you want to know what they’re saying behind your back!

We already speak Greek!

Ms. Dr. Rev. Fr. or _____________________________

Registration Form ADULT GREEK CLASS - 2018

Miss

Course limited to one Monday evening class consisting of 25 students - "first come first served"

Circle one:

NAME _____________________________________________________________________________________ please print your name....exactly as you want it to appear on your diploma!

ADDRESS ________________________________________________________________ZIP ______________

CITY_____________________ STATE ___ Phone(s) H:______________ Other:________________________

Enclosed, my $100 registration fee check, made out to "The Adult Greek Class"

Date________________________________ Signature of future Greek Scholar __________________________

WELCOME TO THE GREEK LANGUAGE -- the vehicle of Plato, of the New Testament...of Zorba, and of today's Greek speaking people!

The connotation of the saying, “It’s all Greek to me.” implying that Greek is difficult, is a misnomer. Greek, especially modern and New Testament Greek, is relatively easy. In fact, we already speak Greek when we use such words as, “theology and philosophy, biography and philanthropy, micro, therapy, eucharist.”

Easy Class!

In this very basic introductory course the only requirement is ATTENDANCE! Leave the rest to the instructor who shares with his students a 92-year-old experience. Furthermore, he doesn’t really teach. He simply “performs” - in a stress-free, relaxed atmosphere. And before you know it you are speaking a little Greek and showing off to your Greek speaking friends. The course promises NOT to add any more pressures to your life, only a relaxed stress-free one hour each week from 6:30 - 7:30 each Monday. At the Graduation party you will enjoy a dinner for you and your guests. You will receive a beautiful diploma with a grade of “Good,” “Very Good” or “Excellent.” Everyone graduates.

You’ll be getting a “Lagniappe” In New Orleans, “Lagniappe” means “something extra”! Besides the exposure to the language, you will also be re-introduced to a bit of Greek history - to the sources of Western Civilization's sacred values, such as Democracy, the Olympics,

theater, philosophy, drama, medicine, etc.

More Extras

The Monday class will meet on another occasion in the Spring, to share a recipe, some Greek dancing lessons, and "A Tour of the Sanctuary". All leading to the Graduation festivities!

In short, IT'S A FUN COURSE! Cost of the Course

The registration fee is only $100 which covers everything. However, a gift to the Annunciation Church, for the use of the parish facilities and in honor of Fr. Vieron will also be solicited. But that will come later, in the Spring (an Easter gift), and only if you are satisfied with the course. How's that for a "guarantee"? Former Graduates testify to: "What I liked about the Class" "The way you make learning sheer fun. You are a wonderful teacher." - Kelly Mowers "The stress-free atmosphere."

- J. Johnson

"Father Vieron's willingness to 'graduate' all of us! No one was made to feel embarrassed or inadequate....always positive." - Geri Brown

"Now I can tell God I love Him in Greek; I also enjoy your humor!" - Sister Terry Starr

Stewardship Report Our Archdiocesan Regularions and Parish By-Laws define Stewards as those who participate regularly in the life of the Parish, as well as contributing towards the financial well-being of the Parish by offering stewardship and/or filling out a Stewardship Card. Below is a list of all Stewards of the Annunciation. Those denoted with an (*) have submitted their Stewardship card to the Stewardship Committee. If you have not submitted a Stewardship Card, please contact the Stewardship Committee or the Church Office.

2017 List of Stewards *Robert Allphin *Nigisti Amdetsion & Aklilu Maasho Zoe Anaston Chris & Connie Apalodimas Maria Apalodimas Michael & Annie Arcamuzi Nick & Anne Argol John & Diane Avgeris *Todd & Cyndi Bagatelas Constantina Baldwin Steven & Anastasia Barlow Matthew & DoraThea Barre *Olivia Bagatelas Beard *Billy & Carri Benson *Demetra Bitinis *John & Deborah Bookas *Janet Boosalis *Shawn Branum *Angela Buchanan Claude Burdikoff Jacob & Michele Buring Dean & Vickie Carayiannis *Endy Carter Brianna & Conan Castellucci *Mary Chagaris *Cary Chiungos *John Chulos Alec Collis Pat Cooper *Charles & Connie Cotros George & Laura Couloubaritsis * Jerry & Julia Couloubaritsis *Elaine Daniels *Alexander & Sangeeta Deitz *George Deitz & Kristine Wagner *Helen Demas *Chris Demopoulos Chris & Shawn Demos George & Bonita Dendrinos Alexander Denton Anna Denton Greg & Cyndi Detty

Andrew & Christina Douglas *Vasilios & Georgia Douklias Yiannis Drosos *Bruce & Helen Erskine Linda Farrell Phillip & Kellye Farris *Nick & Marty Fox Robert & Sarah Friedman *Pete & Jan Futris *Steve & Zoe Futris *Evangelia Gallagher *Christina George Kalovan Getev *Bill & Niki Gikas *Joanne Gikas *Alex Gogonelis James Gore Ronald & Patricia Grantham *Alan & Renee Graves Kevin & Pannayiota Guigley *Maria Hallas *Sarantos & Catherine Hatzigeorgiou *Charles & Elizabeth Hawkins Laurentiu & Mihaela Herbei *Sandy E Herbert *Maria Hetos Monica & Evan Hinson Spence Holland Nathan & Stephanie Hooker *Ken & Vicki Hoover Tina Horne Andrew & Leah Horvath Koula Hristopoulou *Marcus & Cristina Hunter Dorothy Huston *Athena Jameson *Al & Tina Jennings William & Stephanie Johnson *Bill & Denise Joyner Vasilios & Stavroula Kakales Jim & Despina Karas *George Karkatsugas

Georgia Karris *Diane Kavelaras *John & Nancy Kay John & Jennifer Kay, Jr. Maureen Kay *James Kennedy Nader Khalaf *Sarkis & Jenny Kish Regina Kolaitis Bessie Kolapanas *Marcy Kollias *Ksenija LaFaver *Kalliope G Lefes George Limberakis *Tina Liollio Kevin & Alexia Loughman Samya Louza *Tom & Emily Love Irini Manousakis Pete & Amelia Maragos Yolanta Matika *Gus & Helen Mavraganis *Scott McKee & Weilin Xi *Bobby & Nicole McNulty *Emily Melonas Peter & Kathryn Melonas *James & Susan Meng Tamara Miller Allen & Lydia Mims Tom & Phani Mitchell Mary “Toni” Montgomery *Alexis Moore *Mike & Maria Moore *Tommy & Kyndall Moore *Steven & Jennifer Morris *Robert & Kathy Morrison Michael & Valerie Mosby *Naji & Rebecca Nassif Nick & Linda Nichols Michael & Linda Nix *Mitch & Linda Obradovic Asmelash & Asmeret Ogbasion Gregory & Elaine Otto

Sterling & Trish Owen, IV *Evangelia Panas *Demetri Papastefan Alexandra Pappas Maria Pappas *Anna Paris Dorothy Paris *Evangeline Paris Dennis & Odette Patrikios Steve & Nancy Patterson Basil & Bethany Paulus * Manual & Mary Beth Peters Manuel & Susanna Peters Derek & Marianthe Pilcher *Ted & Stephanie Poplos John & Maria Poulos *Chrysanthe Preza & Einir Valdimarsson Elizabeth Ramage Melissa Ramage * Scott Reed *Pete Ruby Albis Samonides *Eric & Anne Schmitt *Vasili & Luane Semos Daniel Shipman Ala Simonchyk & Stephen Fafulas Harry & Magda Sinis Tom & Susan Sinis *Harry & Cathe Skefos *Katherine Skefos Vasilios & Eleni Skoutakis *Jimmy & Georgia Smith *James & Sophie Sousoulas Thomas & Stasia Spentzas Pandora Stamson Steve & Joy Steckler

Romulus & Camelia Stoian Dimitri & Mary Katherine Taras James Taras *Kosta & Loretta Taras *David & Christine Tashie *George & Cecile Tashie *James & Nancy Tashie *John Tashie Judd & Debbie Tashie Rick Taylor *Anastasia Terranova Amanuel & Brur Tesfazion *Lee & Yiota Theodore *Sophie Theodore *Fr. Simon & Presvytera Stephanie Thomas John & Helen Thompson Gregg & Lorrie Tingle Richard & Angela Tobias Kimberly Topolewski Sarah Touliatos Maria Trif Petrisor & Angelita Tudor Cornelia Varnavas *Alex Vergos *Annie Vergos John & Ellen Vergos *Tasia Vergos Theodore Vergos Lee Vieron *Fr. Nicholas Vieron *Magdi & Amira Wassef *Maria Wasserman *Vasiliki Whitten James & Melinda Williams Matthew & Michelle Wilson *Nick & Georgia Zaharopoulos *Michael & Kathy Zambelis William & Julie Zdancewicz

As of November 26 2017: 2017 Stewardship Cards: 97 Stewards: 210 2017 Amount Pledged: $190,628.00 Amount Received to date: $290,821.44 Amount Received in November: $28,347.00

As of Nov 27, 2016: 2016 Stewardship Cards: 98 Stewards: 193 Amount Pledged: $202,630.00 Amount Received to Date: $268,540.01 Amount Received in November: $20,934.00

DECEMBER 2017 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURS-

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

DAY

1 2 DOP Bak- DOP Baking 9:00 am ing 9:00 am 8 9 DOP & Elpis Christmas Party at Ridgeway Country Club 11:30 am

3 Fourteenth Sunday of Luke Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am 1 Year Memorial for Robin Duzane Nursery Available 10:00 am—!2:00 Noon Sunday School 11:00 am St. Nicholas Fundraiser Pancake Breakfast hosted by AHEPA 12:00 Noon in Cotros Hall GOYA Meeting/Y2AM & Prosfora Making Activity12:00 Noon in GOYA Room 10 Tenth Sunday of Luke Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Christmation—Kristin Mitchell Nursery Available 10:00 am—!2:00 Noon Sunday School Christmas Pageant Practice in High School Classroom11:00 am Coffee Fellowship hosted by the Mitchell family to honor Kristin on her Chrismation Day Parish Assembly to Approve Budget 12:00 Noon YAL—Christmas Party 5:00 pm at home of Alexis Moore

4 Feast of Saint Barbara Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am

5 6 Feast of Saint Library Open 10:00 Nicholas am—2:00 pm Orthros 6:00 pm Divine Liturgy for Feast of Saint Nicholas 7:00 pm

7

11

12 St. Spyridon the 13 Wonderworker Bible Study 6:30 Orthros 9:00 am pm Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Library Open 11:00 am—2:00 pm Elpis Board Meeting 6:30 pm

14

15

16 Blessing of the Pets 10:00 am DOP—Set up for Bake Sale 12:00 Noon Christmas Pageant Dress Rehearsal 12:00 Noon APEPA Christmas Party 3:00 pm at Kay Home

17 Eleventh Sunday of Luke Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Available 10:00 am—12:00 Noon Sunday School Christmas Pageant 11:00 am DOP Christmas Bake Sale 12:00 Noon HOPE/JOY/GOYA Christmas Caroling 3:00 pm More Than a Meal Serving Team 3:00 pm

18 20 19 Library Open Parish Council 10:00 am—2:00 pm Bible Study 6:30 Christmas Party YAH Christmas Par- pm 6:00 pm at Jim’s ty at Chickasaw Place Grill Country Club 11:30 am

21

22

23 Royal Hours 5:00 pm

24 Sunday Before Nativity Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Closed today Special Coffee Hour Christmas Eve Vespers 7:00 pm Christmas Eve Reception 8:00 pm

25 Christmas 26 Day Office Closed Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Office Closed

28

29

30

31 Sunday Before Theophany/New Year’s Eve Orthros/Divine Liturgy 8:45 am Nursery Closed today New Year’s Eve Party 6:30 pm - 1:00 am

27 Feast of Saint Stephen Orthros 9:00 am Divine Liturgy 10:00 am