Looking Ahead at St Mary (February 17 – 24)

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Beloved in Christ,

Below you will find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.

THIS WEEK: February 17 – 24, 2025

This Week: Regular Wed/Fri fasting; Sunday, February 23, is the last day meat is allowed before Pascha.     

Tues, Feb 18 at 11:30 am – Bingo @ St George Fellowship Hall

Wed, Feb 19 at 6:00 pm – Daily Vespers

Wed, Feb 19 at 6:30 pm – Film Showing: “Man of God” (St Nektarios)

Thurs, Feb 20 at 5:30 pm – Parish Council Meeting

Fri, Feb 21 – Scroll on Website

Sat, Feb 22 at 9:00 am – Divine Liturgy ~ Saturday of Souls

Sat, Feb 22 – NO CONFESSIONS AND NO VESPERS AT ST MARY (Fr Aaron celebrating a wedding at St George Cathedral)

Sun, Feb 23 – Scroll in Foyer

Sun, Feb 23 at 9:00 am – Matins

Sun, Feb 23 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy

Sun, Feb 23 at 11:00 am – Church School

Sun, Feb 23 at 11:30 am – Belles Meatfare Taco Bar

Sun, Feb 23 at 12:00 pm – Baptism of Andrew Martindale

Sun, Feb 23 at 5:00 pm – Orthodoxy on Tap @ Old School Tap House (210 E Kechi Rd, Kechi)

Mon, Feb 24 at 8:00 am – Divine Liturgy ~ St John the Baptist

Other Notes

(1) SATURDAY OF SOULS: Our pre-Lenten Saturday of Souls service, at which we commemorate all of the departed from time immemorial, is scheduled for Saturday, February 22, at 9:00 am. If you wish to submit names of departed loved ones to be remembered, please submit their FIRST and LAST names to me (not to the parish office) by Wednesday, February 19. If you have a list on file with the parish office, you may contact Frankie and have her send you the list so you can add last names. I am taking this approach this year as we have the same name often submitted by multiple families.

(2) BELLES MEATFARE TACO BAR: The Belles of St Mary will host a fundraising luncheon on Sunday, February 23, following the Divine Liturgy. Everyone is welcome to attend.

(3) ORTHODOXY ON TAP: On Sunday, February 23, at 5:00 pm we will have another “Orthodoxy on Tap” at Old School Tap House (210 E Kechi Rd, Kechi). Fr Mark Sultani from St George Cathedral will briefly discuss technology and the spiritual life. The rest of the time will be a time of food and fellowship.

(4) BINGO AT ST GEORGE: Members of St George Cathedral have invited us to attend Bingo on Tuesday, February 18 from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm in the St George Fellowship Hall. A catered meal and prizes will be provided at no cost.

(5) FESTIVAL PREP: Our annual Mediterranean Festival is coming up on Saturday, May 3. We have several prep days to ensure we are ready to open our doors and welcome our visitors on May 3. In addition to being a major help for this fundraiser, volunteering at these prep days is a wonderful way to get to know your fellow parishioners. Please see the current sign-up sheet for upcoming prep days and sign up for slots when you can make yourself available. You can sign up here: St Mary/Wichita, KS: Mediterranean Festival Prep Dates – 2025

(6) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares his message “The Parable of the Weeds, Part 2.” See the link to read it. 

(7) TEXT MESSAGE UPDATE REMINDERS: If you would like to join the St Mary text message group to receive important updates/reminders, you may do so at any time by texting @stmaryict to 81010. Please note you must include the @ sign to be able to join the group. No one in the group will see your phone number or be able to send you a message except through the parish office. You also will not be able to text others in the group, but will receive messages from the office and can respond to the office.

(8) TEACH ME THY STATUTES PODCAST: If you would like to listen to this week’s Teach Me Thy Statutes podcast (with Fr Aaron & Jason Ewertt), you can find it here: Teach Me Thy Statutes.

(9) PASTORAL VISITS: If you would like a pastoral visit for any reason, or if you know of a family member/parishioner who needs a visit, please feel free to contact me via cell phone at 204-6725.

Yours in Christ,

Fr Aaron

Looking Ahead at St Mary (February 10 – 16)

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Beloved in Christ,

Below you will find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.

THIS WEEK: February 10 – 16, 2025
This Week: No fasting on any day of the week.
Mon, Feb 10 at 6:00 pm – Belles Meeting @ Namees’ (1958 N Sedgwick)
Wed, Feb 12 at 6:00 pm – Daily Vespers
Wed, Feb 12 at 6:30 pm – Film Showing: “Parallel Love: The Story of a Band Called Luxury”
Sat, Feb 15 – Scroll Deadline
Sat, Feb 15 – NO CONFESSIONS AND NO VESPERS AT ST MARY
Sat, Feb 15 at 6:00 pm – Biblical Greek Class
Sun, Feb 16 at 9:00 am – Matins
Sun, Feb 16 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
Sun, Feb 16 at 10:30 am – Catechism Class
Sun, Feb 16 at 11:00 am – Church School
Sun, Feb 16 at 12:00 pm – MF Prep: Make Meat for Meat Pies
Sun, Feb 16 at 5:00 pm – Lord’s Diner

Other Notes
(1) FESTIVAL PREP: Our annual Mediterranean Festival is coming up on Saturday, May 3. We have several prep days to ensure we are ready to open our doors and welcome our visitors on May 3. In addition to being a major help for this fundraiser, volunteering at these prep days is a wonderful way to get to know your fellow parishioners. Please see the current sign-up sheet for upcoming prep days and sign up for slots when you can make yourself available. Near-term prep dates include: Feb 16 at 12:00 pm (meat for meat pies); and Mar 1 (major prep date to make meat pies). You can sign up here: St Mary/Wichita, KS: Mediterranean Festival Prep Dates – 2025

(2) BIBLICAL GREEK CLASS: Several members of our parish are starting a biblical Greek class. All levels, including beginners, are welcome to attend the class. It will meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month, beginning on Saturday, February 15, from 6:00-6:45 pm, at St Mary. Details can be found via the link below.

(3) LORD’S DINER: If you are interested in serving at the Lord’s Diner on Sunday, January 19; or if you wish to be added to the email list for future opportunities to serve on the 3rd Sunday of each month with your fellow parishioners and our brothers and sisters from St George Cathedral, please contact Beth Elliot (bethellio@gmail.com) for details.

(4) THE SCROLL: The next issue of our parish newsletter is scheduled to be online February 21 and in print February 23. The deadline for submission is Saturday, February 15. If you wish to submit items for consideration, you may do so to Brett Parrott (parrobre7014@yahoo.com).

(5) SATURDAY OF SOULS: Our pre-Lenten Saturday of Souls service, at which we commemorate all of the departed from time immemorial, is scheduled for Saturday, February 22, at 9:00 am. If you wish to submit names of departed loved ones to be remembered, please submit their FIRST and LAST names to me (not to the parish office) by Wednesday, February 19. If you have a list on file with the parish office, you may contact Frankie and have her send you the list so you can add last names. I am taking this approach this year as we have the same name often submitted by multiple families.

(6) BELLES MEATFARE TACO BAR: The Belles of St Mary will host a fundraising luncheon on Sunday, February 23, following the Divine Liturgy. Everyone is welcome to attend.

(7) ORTHODOXY ON TAP: On Sunday, February 23, at 5:00 pm we will have another “Orthodoxy on Tap” at Old School Tap House (210 E Kechi Rd, Kechi). Fr Mark Sultani from St George Cathedral will briefly discuss technology and the spiritual life. The rest of the time will be a time of food and fellowship.

(8) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares his message “The Parable of the Weeds, Part 1.” See the link to read it. You might also check out his new book, “A Life Testimony,” a deeply personal and inspiring account after nearly losing his life to Covid-19. The book reflects his spiritual journey, pastoral abilities, and insights into Orthodox Christianity. His book is available here >

(9) TEXT MESSAGE UPDATE REMINDERS: If you would like to join the St Mary text message group to receive important updates/reminders, you may do so at any time by texting @stmaryict to 81010. Please note you must include the @ sign to be able to join the group. No one in the group will see your phone number or be able to send you a message except through the parish office. You also will not be able to text others in the group, but will receive messages from the office and can respond to the office.

(10) TEACH ME THY STATUTES PODCAST: If you would like to listen to this week’s Teach Me Thy Statutes podcast (with Fr Aaron & Jason Ewertt), you can find it here: Teach Me Thy Statutes.(11) PASTORAL VISITS: If you would like a pastoral visit for any reason, or if you know of a family member/parishioner who needs a visit, please feel free to contact me via cell phone at 204-6725.

Yours in Christ,
Fr Aaron

Looking Ahead at St Mary (January 26 – February 2)

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Beloved in Christ,

Below you will find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.
THIS WEEK: January 26 – February 2, 2025
This Week: Regular Wed/Fri fasting.     
Sun, Jan 26 – Sun, Feb 2: FAMILY PROMISE HOST WEEK (thank you, volunteers!)
Wed, Jan 29 at 5:30 pm – Divine Liturgy ~ Three Great Hierarchs
Wed, Jan 29 at 6:30 pm – Film Showing: “New Men” (chronicles one year of life @ a monastery in West Virginia)
Sat, Feb 1 at 4:30 pm – Confessions
Sat, Feb 1 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers
Sun, Feb 2 at 9:00 am – Matins
Sun, Feb 2 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
Sun, Feb 2 at 11:00 am – Church School
Sun, Feb 2 at 11:30 am – Potluck Coffee Hour

Other Notes
(1) HOUSE BLESSINGS:  Each year it is customary that beginning on Theophany, the Parish Priest is invited to bless parishioner homes with the Holy Water blessed at the January 6 Theophany Divine Liturgy. All parishioners and catechumens are encouraged to sign up for a house blessing. If you would like to schedule a house blessing, please contact Fr Aaron.

(2) FESTIVAL PREP: Our annual Mediterranean Festival is coming up on Saturday, May 3. We have several prep days to ensure we are ready to open our doors and welcome our visitors on May 3. In addition to being a major help for this fundraiser, volunteering at these prep days is a wonderful way to get to know your fellow parishioners. Please see the current sign-up sheet for upcoming prep days and sign up for slots when you can make yourself available. Near-term prep dates include: Feb 4 at 5:30 pm (MEN needed to core/steam cabbage); Feb 6 at 5:30 pm (trim cabbage); and Feb 8 (major prep date to roll cabbage). You can sign up here: St Mary/Wichita, KS: Mediterranean Festival Prep Dates – 2025

(3) FR CAL VISIT: Fr Calinic Berger, Archiepiscopal Vicar for our Diocese, plans to make an unofficial visit to our parish on Sunday, February 2. Fr Cal is bringing with him Fr Seraphim Daoud, another Archimandrite who is touring the United States to visit our churches and who permanently resides at the Archdiocese headquarters.

(4) WILDFIRE RELIEF: As you are surely aware, disastrous wildfires have been ravaging the Los Angeles area recently and thousands of homes have been destroyed, including those of some of our brothers and sisters of St Nicholas Cathedral/Los Angeles, CA. If you would like to donate to help, you may consider donating to FOCUS North America’s fund for this purpose. You can read more and donate here: Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

(5) METROPOLITAN SABA CONNECTS WITH YOUTH/YOUNG ADULTS: Metropolitan Saba recently set up an Instagram account intended to help foster communication between himself and our youth/young adults. Feel free to ask him questions, or to let your children know they can ask him questions, by leaving a message on his page or by direct messaging him. His account is here: Ask Sayidna (@asksayidna) • Instagram photos and videos

(6) ORTHODOX VOLUNTEER CORPS (OVC): OVC is an immersive service opportunity for young adults (21-29 years old), combined with Orthodox formation, community living, and engagement with local parishes. Programming began in Pittsburgh in 2022 with 6 Corps Members, grew to 30 participants in 2023, and expanded to a second city, Boston, in 2024. Our Corps Members serve alongside neighbors in need–at homeless shelters, after-school programs, free medical clinics, and more. If you are interested in learning more you can follow this link and/or contact me so I may nominate you to serve: Orthodox Volunteer Corps

(7) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares his message “On Salvation: My Salvation and the Salvation of Others.” See the link to read it.

(8) TEXT MESSAGE UPDATE REMINDERS: If you would like to join the St Mary text message group to receive important updates/reminders, you may do so at any time by texting @stmaryict to 81010. Please note you must include the @ sign to be able to join the group. No one in the group will see your phone number or be able to send you a message except through the parish office. You also will not be able to text others in the group, but will receive messages from the office and can respond to the office.

(9) TEACH ME THY STATUTES PODCAST: If you would like to listen to this week’s Teach Me Thy Statutes podcast (with Fr Aaron & Jason Ewertt), you can find it here: Teach Me Thy Statutes.

(10) PASTORAL VISITS: If you would like a pastoral visit for any reason, or if you know of a family member/parishioner who needs a visit, please feel free to contact me via cell phone at 204-6725.

Yours in Christ,
Fr Aaron

Looking Ahead at St Mary (January 19 – 26)

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Beloved in Christ,

Below you will find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.

THIS WEEK: January 19 – 26, 2025

This Week: Regular Wed/Fri fasting.     

Sun, Jan 19 at 5:00 pm – Lord’s Diner

Wed, Jan 22 at 6:00 pm – Daily Vespers

Wed, Jan 22 at 6:30 pm – Film Showing: “Amphilochios: Saint of Patmos”

Sat, Jan 25 at 4:30 pm – Confessions

Sat, Jan 25 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers

Sun, Jan 26 at 9:00 am – Matins

Sun, Jan 26 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy

Sun, Jan 26 at 11:00 am – Church School

Other Notes

(1) HOUSE BLESSINGS:  Each year it is customary that beginning on Theophany, the Parish Priest is invited to bless parishioner homes with the Holy Water blessed at the January 6 Theophany Divine Liturgy. All parishioners and catechumens are encouraged to sign up for a house blessing. If you would like to schedule a house blessing, please contact Fr Aaron.

(2) FAMILY PROMISE HOST WEEK: St. Mary is the host parish for Family Promise the week of January 26-February 2. Please use the link below to sign up. Opportunities for those who would prefer to sign up in person will be available after liturgy on January 12 and 19.  Sign up opportunities include providing food for breakfast and snacks, evening meals, a hot breakfast Saturday, transportation to and from the Day House, laundry, and spending the night at the church. Thanks for your support of this important ministry. Contact Vicki Jones, 650-0658, or Father Aaron with any questions. Sign up link is here: January 26-February 2

(3) LORD’S DINER: If you wish to be added to the email list for future opportunities to serve on the 3rd Sunday of each month with your fellow parishioners and our brothers and sisters from St George Cathedral, please contact Beth Elliot (bethellio@gmail.com) for details.

(4) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares his message “Baptizing the World – Part 2.” See the link to read it.

(5) TEXT MESSAGE UPDATE REMINDERS: If you would like to join the St Mary text message group to receive important updates/reminders, you may do so at any time by texting @stmaryict to 81010. Please note you must include the @ sign to be able to join the group. No one in the group will see your phone number or be able to send you a message except through the parish office. You also will not be able to text others in the group, but will receive messages from the office and can respond to the office.

(6) TEACH ME THY STATUTES PODCAST: If you would like to listen to this week’s Teach Me Thy Statutes podcast (with Fr Aaron & Jason Ewertt), you can find it here: Teach Me Thy Statutes.

(7) PASTORAL VISITS: If you would like a pastoral visit for any reason, or if you know of a family member/parishioner who needs a visit, please feel free to contact me via cell phone at 204-6725.

Yours in Christ,

Fr Aaron

Looking Ahead at St Mary (January 13 – 19)

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Beloved in Christ,

Below you will find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.

THIS WEEK: January 13 – 19, 2025

This Week: Regular Wed/Fri fasting.     

Mon, Jan 13 at 6:30 pm – Belles Meeting @ Vicki Jones’s (1824 Northwest Parkway)

Wed, Jan 15 at 6:00 pm – Daily Vespers

Wed, Jan 15 at 6:30 pm – Film Showing: “St George the Great Martyr”

Thurs, Jan 16 at 5:30 pm – Parish Council Meeting

Thurs, Jan 16 at 7:00 pm – Ladies (Free) Bingo Night @ Central Standard Brewing

Fri, Jan 17 at 8:00 am – Divine Liturgy ~ St Anthony the Great

Sat, Jan 18 at 4:30 pm – Confessions

Sat, Jan 18 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers

Sat, Jan 18 at 6:00 pm – 20/40 Fellowship @ White Crow (1236 E Waterman)

Sun, Jan 19 at 9:00 am – Matins

Sun, Jan 19 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy

Sun, Jan 19 at 10:30 am – Catechism Class

Sun, Jan 19 at 11:00 am – Church School

Sun, Jan 19 at 5:00 pm – Lord’s Diner

 

Other Notes

(1) HOUSE BLESSINGS:  Each year it is customary that beginning on Theophany, the Parish Priest is invited to bless parishioner homes with the Holy Water blessed at the January 6 Theophany Divine Liturgy. All parishioners and catechumens are encouraged to sign up for a house blessing. If you would like to schedule a house blessing, please contact Fr Aaron.

(2) FAMILY PROMISE HOST WEEK: St. Mary is the host parish for Family Promise the week of January 26-February 2. Please use the link below to sign up. Opportunities for those who would prefer to sign up in person will be available after liturgy on January 12 and 19.  Sign up opportunities include providing food for breakfast and snacks, evening meals, a hot breakfast Saturday, transportation to and from the Day House, laundry, and spending the night at the church. Thanks for your support of this important ministry. Contact Vicki Jones, 650-0658, or Father Aaron with any questions. Sign up link is here: January 26-February 2

(3) 20/40 FELLOWSHIP:  The 20/40 Fellowship Group is open to all parishioners and catechumens age 20 – 40 somethingish. Their next gathering will be on Saturday, January 18, at 6:00 pm at White Crow Cider Company (1236 E Waterman).

(4) LORD’S DINER: If you are interested in serving at the Lord’s Diner on Sunday, January 19; or if you wish to be added to the email list for future opportunities to serve on the 3rd Sunday of each month with your fellow parishioners and our brothers and sisters from St George Cathedral, please contact Beth Elliot (bethellio@gmail.com) for details.

(5) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares his message “Baptizing the World – Part 1.” See the link to read it. 

(6) TEXT MESSAGE UPDATE REMINDERS: If you would like to join the St Mary text message group to receive important updates/reminders, you may do so at any time by texting @stmaryict to 81010. Please note you must include the @ sign to be able to join the group. No one in the group will see your phone number or be able to send you a message except through the parish office. You also will not be able to text others in the group, but will receive messages from the office and can respond to the office.

(7) TEACH ME THY STATUTES PODCAST: If you would like to listen to this week’s Teach Me Thy Statutes podcast (with Fr Aaron & Jason Ewertt), you can find it here: Teach Me Thy Statutes.

(8) PASTORAL VISITS: If you would like a pastoral visit for any reason, or if you know of a family member/parishioner who needs a visit, please feel free to contact me via cell phone at 204-6725.

Yours in Christ,

Fr Aaron

Looking Ahead at St Mary (January 5 – 13)

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Beloved in Christ,

Below you will find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.

THIS WEEK: January 5 – January 13, 2025

This Week: Regular Wed/Fri fasting.     

Mon, Jan 6 at 8:00 am – Divine Liturgy ~ Theophany

Mon, Jan 6 – House Blessings Begin

Tues, Jan 7 at 4:00 pm – Visitation for Connie Hansen (chapel)

Tues, Jan 7 at 5:30 pm – Funeral for Connie Hansen

Tues, Jan 7 at 6:30 pm – Meal of Mercy for Connie Hansen

Wed, Jan 8 at 6:00 pm – Daily Vespers

Wed, Jan 8 at 6:30 pm – Film Showing: “Sacred Alaska”

Sat, Jan 11 at 7:30 am – Belles Making Holy Bread

Sat, Jan 11 at 4:00 pm – Men’s Prayer Group

Sat, Jan 11 at 4:30 pm – Confessions

Sat, Jan 11 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers

Sat, Jan 11 at 6:00 pm – 20/40 Fellowship @ White Crow (1236 E Waterman)

Sun, Jan 12 at 9:00 am – Matins

Sun, Jan 12 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy

Sun, Jan 12 at 11:00 am – Church School

Sun, Jan 12 at 11:30 am – Potluck Coffee Hour

Sun, Jan 12 at 5:00 pm – Orthodoxy on Tap @ Old School Tap House (210 E Kechi Rd, Kechi)

Mon, Jan 13 at 6:30 pm – Belles Meeting @ Vicki Jones’s (1824 Northwest Parkway)

Other Notes

(1) SACRED ALASKA FILM: Native Alaskan Peoples and Orthodox Christianity have been intertwined for hundreds of years. From the Native perspective; the land, the water, the animals and plants – all creation is sacred and connected. Orthodox Christianity holds a similar worldview. “Sacred Alaska” explores how the Christian faith was presented to the Native People as the true fulfillment of what they already knew. This Orthodox faith was not something alien to them, but became their own. A faith that connected to and expanded what they already believed about what it means to be human. To this day Native Alaskan Orthodoxy is alive, being passed down and spread through generations.

(2) HOUSE BLESSINGS:  Each year it is customary that beginning on Theophany, the Parish Priest is invited to bless parishioner homes with the Holy Water blessed at the January 6 Theophany Divine Liturgy. All parishioners and catechumens are encouraged to sign up for a house blessing. If you would like to schedule a house blessing, please contact Fr Aaron.

(3) BELLES MAKING HOLY BREAD: The Belles of St Mary regularly make holy bread that can be purchased by parishioners who wish to offer holy bread, but cannot make the holy bread themselves. Please note that everyone age 13 and older is invited to help the Belles make holy bread, including men who would like to learn. The Belles are scheduled to make holy bread next on Saturday, January 11, beginning at 7:30 am. 

(4) 20/40 FELLOWSHIP:  The 20/40 Fellowship Group is open to all parishioners and catechumens age 20 – 40 somethingish. Their next gathering will be on Saturday, January 11, at 6:00 pm at White Crow Cider Company (1236 E Waterman).

(5) ORTHODOXY ON TAP: This fellowship group is a wonderful way to meet Orthodox Christians from all our Wichita-area parishes. The next meeting is Sunday, January 12, from 5-8 pm at Old School Tap House. Fr Mark Sultani of St George Cathedral will briefly discuss technology and the spiritual life. The rest of the time will be a time of food and fellowship.

(6) POTLUCK COFFEE HOUR: Due to January 5 being a fast day for the preparation of Theophany, our monthly Potluck Coffee Hour is Sunday, January 12 (no fasting restrictions that Sunday).

(7) TEXT MESSAGE UPDATE REMINDERS: If you would like to join the St Mary text message group to receive important updates/reminders, you may do so at any time by texting @stmaryict to 81010. Please note you must include the @ sign to be able to join the group. No one in the group will see your phone number or be able to send you a message except through the parish office. You also will not be able to text others in the group, but will receive messages from the office and can respond to the office.

(8) TEACH ME THY STATUTES PODCAST: If you would like to listen to this week’s Teach Me Thy Statutes podcast (with Fr Aaron & Jason Ewertt), you can find it here: Teach Me Thy Statutes.

(9) PASTORAL VISITS: If you would like a pastoral visit for any reason, or if you know of a family member/parishioner who needs a visit, please feel free to contact me via cell phone at 204-6725.

Yours in Christ,

 

Fr Aaron

Looking Ahead at St Mary (December 22 – 29)

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Beloved in Christ,

Below you will find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.
THIS WEEK: December 22 – 29, 2024
This Week: The Advent Fast began on Nov 15 and continues through Dec 24; following Dec 24 Liturgy, there is no fasting through Jan 4.    
Sun, Dec 22 at 5:00 pm – Church School Christmas Program (see note and flyer below)
Mon, Dec 23 at 6:00 pm – Advent Paraklesis
Tues, Dec 24 at 9:00 am – Royal Hours of the Nativity
Tues, Dec 24 at 4:50 pm – Festal Matins of the Nativity
Tues, Dec 24 at 6:00 pm – Divine Liturgy of the Nativity
Fri, Dec 27 – Scroll on Website
Sat, Dec 28 – No Confessions
Sat, Dec 28 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers
Sun, Dec 29 – Scroll in Foyer
Sun, Dec 29 at 9:00 am – Matins
Sun, Dec 29 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy

Other Notes
(1)   CHRISTMAS PROGRAM: Our annual Church School Christmas Program & Potluck is TONIGHT, Sunday, December 22, at 5:00 pm. See the flyer below for more details. Please be sure to bring a little extra than usual for the Potluck as St Michael parishioners have been invited to join us in fellowship that evening.

(2) HUMANITARIAN NATIVITY PROJECT: Our Humanitarian Ministry Team is sponsoring a Nativity project to help re-stock our food pantry that serves several hundred people per year. To learn more details about how you can help, please see the flyer linked below.

(3) CHURCH HALL OPEN FOR CHRISTMAS: Once again this year the Church Hall will be open for people to celebrate after Divine Liturgy on Tuesday, December 24. The parish will not be providing any food or beverage, but people are welcome to bring their own. As always, please be sure not to drink and drive and to shut the lights off if you are the last person to leave. Please also ensure the doors are locked behind and be sure to pick up any mess you make.

(4) FAMILY PROMISE 2025 HOST DATES:  The following dates are our scheduled host weeks for Family Promise in 2025. As usual, we will circulate a sign up closer to each date, but we wanted to let everyone know about these dates in advance. Here are the host weeks for 2025: January 26 – February 2; March 30 – April 6; June 29 – July 6; and October 5 – 12.

(5) BISHOP BASIL ENDOWMENT FUND:  The Bishop Basil Endowment Fund supports new missions and parish expansion projects in our diocese, such as land purchases, building projects, or monetary support for priest of a new mission community. Each year, to honor Bishop Basil on his name-day (January 1), we take a collection for a few Sundays near his name-day. If you would like to donate this year, please contribute by writing a check or making an online donation to St Mary, earmarked: Bishop Basil Endowment Fund. Please turn in your contribution by Sunday, January 12.

(6) 2025 PARISH COUNCIL OFFICERS:  The following parishioners were elected as officers of the 2025 Parish Council: Paula Zarich (PC Chair); Tracy Namee (Vice Chair); Darren Minks (Treasurer); and Ken Dannenberg (Secretary). May God grant them many years!

(7) TEXT MESSAGE UPDATE REMINDERS: If you would like to join the St Mary text message group to receive important updates/reminders, you may do so at any time by texting @stmaryict to 81010. Please note you must include the @ sign to be able to join the group. No one in the group will see your phone number or be able to send you a message except through the parish office. You also will not be able to text others in the group, but will receive messages from the office and can respond to the office.

(8) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week, His Eminence shares “The Nativity & Almsgiving – Part 2.” See the linkto read it. 

(9) TEACH ME THY STATUTES PODCAST: If you would like to listen to this week’s Teach Me Thy Statutes podcast (with Fr Aaron & Jason Ewertt), you can find it here: Teach Me Thy Statutes.

(10) PASTORAL VISITS: If you would like a pastoral visit for any reason, or if you know of a family member/parishioner who needs a visit, please feel free to contact me via cell phone at 204-6725.

Yours in Christ,

Fr Aaron

Looking Ahead at St Mary (December 2 – 9)

/in /by

Beloved in Christ,

Below you will find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.

THIS WEEK: December 2 – 9, 2024

This Week: The Advent Fast began on Nov 15 and continues through Dec 24.    

Mon, Dec 2 at 6:00 pm – Belles Christmas Party (2860 N Cypress Cir) (see note below)

Wed, Dec 4 at 8:00 am – Divine Liturgy ~ Sts Barbara and John of Damascus

Wed, Dec 4 at 6:00 pm – Great Vespers

Wed, Dec 4 at 6:30 pm – Bible Study (Genesis)

Fri, Dec 6 at 8:00 am – Divine Liturgy ~ St Nicholas

Fri, Dec 6 at 6:00 pm – Advent Paraklesis

Sat, Dec 7 at 4:30 pm – Confession

Sat, Dec 7 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers

Sun, Dec 8 at 9:00 am – Matins

Sun, Dec 8 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy

Sun, Dec 8 at 11:00 am – Church School

Sun, Dec 8 at 4:30 pm – Christmas Lessons & Carols @ St Michael (2710 E 61st St N, Park City)

Mon, Dec 9 at 6:00 pm – Advent Paraklesis

Other Notes

(1)  BIBLE STUDY LINK: I highly encourage people to attend Daily Vespers and Bible Study in person. For those unable to make it in person, you can join virtually using the following link: https://teams.live.com/meet/9338659190975?p=RmHOjYNZcu2xsG9NKo

(2) BELLES CHRISTMAS PARTY: All women of our parish are invited to the annual Belles of St Mary Christmas Party. Even if you are not a regular participant in the Belles, we encourage you to attend this wonderful evening. Please see the linked invitation below with some important details.

(3) FAMILY PROMISE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: St. Mary is the host parish for FAMILY PROMISE the week of December 8-15. Please use the link below to sign up. Opportunities for those who would prefer to sign up in person will be available after liturgy on Nov.17 and Dec. 1.  Sign up opportunities include providing food for breakfast and snacks, evening meals, a hot breakfast Saturday, transportation to and from the Day House, laundry, and spending the night at the church. Thanks for your support of this important ministry. Contact Vicki Jones, 650-0658, or Father Aaron with any questions. Sign up link here:  Dec. 8-15 2024

(4) CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT ST MICHAEL: Our brothers and sisters in Christ at St Michael/Park City have invited us to attend their annual Festival of Lessons and Carols on Sunday, December 8, at 4:30 pm. This is a beautiful service that includes the singing of many Christmas hymns familiar to us in America. Refreshments to follow. See the link below for more details. In turn, we have invited St Michael to our annual Christmas Program & Potluck on Sunday, December 22 at 5:00 pm. More details on that soon.

(5) HUMANITARIAN NATIVITY PROJECT: Our Humanitarian Ministry Team is sponsoring a Nativity project to help re-stock our food pantry that serves several hundred people per year. To learn more details about how you can help, please see the flyer here >

(6) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares “The Holy Scriptures: Nourishment of the Faithful – Part 2.” See the link to read it >

(7) TEACH ME THY STATUTES PODCAST: If you would like to listen to this week’s Teach Me Thy Statutes podcast (with Fr Aaron & Jason Ewertt), you can find it here: Teach Me Thy Statutes.

(8) PASTORAL VISITS: If you would like a pastoral visit for any reason, or if you know of a family member/parishioner who needs a visit, please feel free to contact me via cell phone at 204-6725.

Yours in Christ,

Fr Aaron

Looking Ahead at St Mary (November 25 – December 2)

/in /by

Beloved in Christ,

Below you will find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.

THIS WEEK: November 25 – December 2, 2024
This Week: The Advent Fast began on Nov 15 and continues through Dec 24.    
Sat, Nov 30 at 4:30 pm – Confession
Sat, Nov 30 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers
Sun, Dec 1 at 9:00 am – Matins
Sun, Dec 1 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
Sun, Dec 1 at 11:30 am – Potluck Coffee Hour
Mon, Dec 2 at 6:00 pm – Belles Christmas Party (2860 N Cypress Cir) (see note below)

Other Notes
(1) FR AARON OUT OF TOWN: I will be out of town Monday, November 25 through Friday, November 29, to visit family for the Thanksgiving holiday. Please feel free to contact me during this week with any needs or concerns.

(2) BELLES CHRISTMAS PARTY: All women of our parish are invited to the annual Belles of St Mary Christmas Party. Even if you are not a regular participant in the Belles, we encourage you to attend this wonderful evening. Please see the linked invitation below with some important details.

(3) FAMILY PROMISE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: St. Mary is the host parish for FAMILY PROMISE the week of December 8-15. Please use the link below to sign up. Opportunities for those who would prefer to sign up in person will be available after liturgy on Nov.17 and Dec. 1.  Sign up opportunities include providing food for breakfast and snacks, evening meals, a hot breakfast Saturday, transportation to and from the Day House, laundry, and spending the night at the church. Thanks for your support of this important ministry. Contact Vicki Jones, 650-0658, or Father Aaron with any questions. Sign up link here >

(4) CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT ST MICHAEL: Our brothers and sisters in Christ at St Michael/Park City have invited us to attend their annual Festival of Lessons and Carols on Sunday, December 8, at 4:30 pm. This is a beautiful service that includes the singing of many Christmas hymns familiar to us in America. Refreshments to follow. See the link below for more details. In turn, we have invited St Michael to our annual Christmas Program & Potluck on Sunday, December 22 at 5:00 pm. More details on that soon.

(5) ADVENT FAST WEBPAGE: The Antiochian Archdiocese has a wonderful resource page for the Advent/Nativity Fast, with guidelines and spiritual reflections. You can view that website here: Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

(6) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares “The Holy Scriptures: Nourishment of the Faithful – Part 1.” See the link to read it >

(7) TEACH ME THY STATUTES PODCAST: If you would like to listen to this week’s Teach Me Thy Statutes podcast (with Fr Aaron & Jason Ewertt), you can find it here: Teach Me Thy Statutes.

(8) PASTORAL VISITS: If you would like a pastoral visit for any reason, or if you know of a family member/parishioner who needs a visit, please feel free to contact me via cell phone at 204-6725.

Yours in Christ,

Fr Aaron

Looking Ahead at St Mary (November 18 – 24)

/in /by

Beloved in Christ,

Below you will find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.
THIS WEEK: November 18 – November 24, 2024
This Week: The Advent Fast began on Nov 15 and continues through Dec 24.    
Mon, Nov 18 at 6:00 pm – Advent Paraklesis
Wed, Nov 20 at 5:30 pm – Divine Liturgy ~ The Entrance of the Mother of God Into The Temple
Wed, Nov 20 at 6:30 pm – Bible Study (Genesis)
Mon, Nov 22 at 6:00 pm – Advent Paraklesis
Sat, Nov 23 at 4:30 pm – Confession
Sat, Nov 23 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers
Sun, Nov 24 at 9:00 am – Matins
Sun, Nov 24 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
Sun, Nov 24 at 11:00 am – Church School

Other Notes
(1) BIBLE STUDY LINK: I highly encourage people to attend Daily Vespers and Bible Study in person. For those unable to make it in person, you can join virtually using the following link: https://teams.live.com/meet/9338659190975?p=RmHOjYNZcu2xsG9NKo

(2) WORK DAYS FOR HOLIDAY BAKE SALE: Thank you to all who helped on Saturday with making baklawa. We still need help packaging the baklawa on Monday, December 9. We appreciate those who volunteer their time on those days to help. You can sign up here: St Mary/Wichita, KS: Holiday Bake Sale Prep Dates – 2024 (signupgenius.com)

(3) FAMILY PROMISE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: St. Mary is the host parish for FAMILY PROMISE the week of December 8-15. Please use the link below to sign up. Opportunities for those who would prefer to sign up in person will be available after liturgy on Nov.17 and Dec. 1.  Sign up opportunities include providing food for breakfast and snacks, evening meals, a hot breakfast Saturday, transportation to and from the Day House, laundry, and spending the night at the church. Thanks for your support of this important ministry. Contact Vicki Jones, 650-0658, or Father Aaron with any questions. Sign up link here:
Dec. 8-15 2024

(4) CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT ST MICHAEL: Our brothers and sisters in Christ at St Michael/Park City have invited us to attend their annual Festival of Lessons and Carols on Sunday, December 8, at 4:30 pm. This is a beautiful service that includes the singing of many Christmas hymns familiar to us in America. Refreshments to follow. See the link for more details. In turn, we have invited St Michael to our annual Christmas Program & Potluck on Sunday, December 22 at 5:00 pm. More details on that soon.

(5) ADVENT FAST WEBPAGE: The Antiochian Archdiocese has a wonderful resource page for the Advent/Nativity Fast, with guidelines and spiritual reflections. You can view that website here: Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

(6) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week, His Eminence shares “The Christian Approach to Crisis – Part 4.” See the link to read it >

(7) TEACH ME THY STATUTES PODCAST: If you would like to listen to this week’s Teach Me Thy Statutes podcast (with Fr Aaron & Jason Ewertt), you can find it here: Teach Me Thy Statutes.

(8) PASTORAL VISITS: If you would like a pastoral visit for any reason, or if you know of a family member/parishioner who needs a visit, please feel free to contact me via cell phone at 204-6725.

Yours in Christ,

Fr Aaron