Looking Ahead at St Mary (May 20 – 27)

Beloved in Christ,

Christ is risen! Thank you to everyone who worked not only this weekend, but over the past several months, to ensure yet another successful Mediterranean Festival. May God grant you many years!

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

THIS WEEK: May 20 – 27, 2024

This Week: No fasting on any day of the week through Ascension.  

  • Wed, May 22 at 5:30 pm – Parish Council Meeting
  • Thurs, May 23 at 6:00 pm – Belles Fellowship Gathering (see updated flyer for location & details)
  • Thurs, May 23 from 6:00 – 9:00 pm: Orthodoxy on Tap (see note below)
  • Sat, May 25 at 4:30 pm – Confession
  • Sat, May 25 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers
  • Sun, May 26 at 9:00 am – Matins
  • Sun, May 26 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
  • Sun, May 26 at 11:30 am – Book Signing by Matthew Namee at Coffee Hour
  • Mon, May 27 at 9:00 am – Graveside Blessings (seen note below)

Other Notes

(1) FAMILY PROMISE HOST WEEK: St. Mary is the host parish for Family Promise the week of June 9 – 17. To volunteer, follow this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A49AAAF2BAAF94-49267835-family#/. Sign up includes providing food for breakfast and snacks, evening meals, transportation to and from the Day House, and spending the night at the church. Thanks for your support of this important ministry. Contact Vicki Jones, 650-0658, with any questions.

(2) FELLOWSHIP GROUPS FOR JUNE: With Lent, Pascha, and the Festival now behind us, we will restart our Fellowship Group assignments. I will soon be assigning you to your fellowship group for the month of June. If you need to opt out for the month and have not already told me you are opting out permanently, please let me know ASAP. If you have already opted out permanently, you do NOT need to contact me about this each month. On the other hand, if you opted out in the past, but wish to rejoin the groups, please let me know that as well.

(3) ORTHODOXY ON TAP: The next Orthodoxy on Tap will be held on Thursday, 5/23, 6-9pm at Old School Tap House and Social. Fr Kosmas Morfas from Holy Ascension in Norman, Oklahoma, will be speaking. Anyone is welcome, but we are especially looking to integrate the young adult community.

(4) VBS AT ST GEORGE: St George will host a Vacation Bible School June 3 – 6 (Mon – Thurs) from 1 – 4 pm each day, which is centered around the theme of our heavenly protectors, the Holy Archangels Gabriel, Michael, and Raphael. VBS is open to any children ages 4 – 5th grade according to the 2023-2024 school year. You can register here: https://onrealm.org/StGeorgeCathedral/PublicRegistrations/Event?linkString=YTNhNWZjYTYtMmQ0OC00ZjAxLWI0ZDctYjE0NzAxNzE4YjNk.

(5) MEMORIAL DAY GRAVESIDE BLESSINGS: We will meet on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27 at 9:00 am, at Old Mission Chapel for the annual Graveside Blessing Trisagion Service. I will then go to bless the graves of our departed loved ones at Old Mission Cemetery. If you would like me to bless a grave(s) that is not at Old Mission, please let me know and we can make arrangements.

(6) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares a teaching on “What Is The Goal.” See the link >

(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: https://tmts.transistor.fm/.

(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 (May 13 – 19)

Beloved in Christ,

Christ is risen! Please note we have MULTIPLE festival prep tasks this week, and we still need all parishioners to help. I have not listed all the dates in this email, but you can see all of the open slots and sign up to help here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-42317532-mediterranean#/.

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

THIS WEEK: May 13 – 19, 2024

This Week: No fasting on any day of the week through Ascension.  

Other Notes

(1) WEEK OF FESTIVAL PREP DATES: We need many helpers during the week of the festival as we make the final preparations. We have put together a Sign-Up Genius page with all the work to be done, dates on which they will be done, and the number of people needed. Please review that document (https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-42317532-mediterranean#/) and sign up for any events when you can help.

(2) MF MARKET HELP NEEDED: The Marketplace is one of the most profitable aspects of our Mediterranean Festival because it primarily relies on parishioners bringing various baked goods to sell. We ask that every family bring at least one item(s) (e.g., cake, cookies) to sell. Linked below you will find the Market Bulletin, discussing the types of baked goods we are seeking, as well as some helpful tips. We ask that you please indicate the items you intend to bring by signing up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-49007709-mediterranean#/. You will also find below a link to the Baking Form, which we ask you fill out so we can list the ingredients included in your baked goods. Thank you in advance for your support!

(3) FAMILY PROMISE HOST WEEK: St. Mary is the host parish for Family Promise the week of June 9 – 17. To volunteer, follow this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A49AAAF2BAAF94-49267835-family#/. Sign up includes providing food for breakfast and snacks, evening meals, transportation to and from the Day House, and spending the night at the church. Thanks for your support of this important ministry. Contact Vicki Jones, 650-0658, with any questions.

(4) VBS AT ST GEORGE: St George will host a Vacation Bible School June 3 – 6 (Mon – Thurs) from 1 – 4 pm each day, which is centered around the theme of our heavenly protectors, the Holy Archangels Gabriel, Michael, and Raphael. VBS is open to any children ages 4 – 5th grade according to the 2023-2024 school year. You can register here: https://onrealm.org/StGeorgeCathedral/PublicRegistrations/Event?linkString=YTNhNWZjYTYtMmQ0OC00ZjAxLWI0ZDctYjE0NzAxNzE4YjNk.

(5) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares a teaching on “Steadfastness Despite Persecution.” See the link to read it.

(6) ORTHODOXY ON TAP: The next Orthodoxy on Tap will be held on Thursday, 5/23, 6-9pm at Old School Tap House and Social. Fr Kosmas Morfas from Holy Ascension in Norman, Oklahoma, will be speaking. Anyone is welcome, but we are especially looking to integrate the young adult community.

(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: https://tmts.transistor.fm/.

(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 (May 5 – 13)

Beloved in Christ,

CHRIST IS RISEN! Happy and blessed Pascha!

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

THIS WEEK: May 5 – 12, 2024

This Week: No fasting on any day of the week through Ascension.  

  • Sun, May 5 at 1:00 pm – Agape Vespers @ St George Cathedral
  • Wed, May 8 at 8:00 am – Divine Liturgy ~ St John the Evangelist & Theologian
  • Sat, May 11 at 8:00 am – MF Prep: Make Baklawa (sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-42317532-mediterranean#/)
  • Sat, May 11 at 12:00 pm – MF Prep: Initial Hall Setup (see sign up in Note 1 below)
  • Sat, May 11 at 4:00 pm – Men’s Prayer Group
  • Sat, May 11 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers ~ Thomas Sunday
  • Sun, May 12 – Mother’s Day
  • Sun, May 12 at 8:50 am – Festal Matins ~ Thomas Sunday
  • Sun, May 12 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
  • Mon, May 13 at 9:00 am – MF Prep – Make Greek Cookies (see sign up in Note 1 below)
  • Mon, May 13 at 11:00 am – MF Prep: Cut & Package Baklawa (see sign up in Note 1 below)

Other Notes

(1) WEEK OF FESTIVAL PREP DATES: We need many helpers during the week of the festival as we make the final preparations. We have put together a Sign-Up Genius page with all the work to be done, dates on which they will be done, and the number of people needed. Please review that document (https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-42317532-mediterranean#/) and sign up for any events when you can help.

(2) MF MARKET HELP NEEDED: The Marketplace is one of the most profitable aspects of our Mediterranean Festival because it primarily relies on parishioners bringing various baked goods to sell. We ask that every family bring at least one item(s) (e.g., cake, cookies) to sell. Linked below you will find the Market Bulletin, discussing the types of baked goods we are seeking, as well as some helpful tips. We ask that you please indicate the items you intend to bring by signing up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-49007709-mediterranean#/. You will also find below a link to the Baking Form, which we ask you fill out so we can list the ingredients included in your baked goods. Thank you in advance for your support!

(3) ORTHODOX YOUNG PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE: The Orthodox Young Professionals Conference (OYPC) is celebrating its tenth-anniversary conference this July 25-28 in Orange County, Calif. The keynote speaker, Fr. Evan Armatas, will discuss relationships, the challenges in finding a spouse, and the reasons why there are many unmarried young adults within the Church. The first 50 registrants will get a discount. A flyer with details is linked below.

(4) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares a teaching on “The Renewal of Pascha.” Read it here >

(5) 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: https://tmts.transistor.fm/.

(6) 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 (Apr 28 – May 5)

Beloved in Christ,

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

THIS WEEK: Apr 28 – May 5, 2024

This Week: No meat/dairy allowed during Holy Week; wine allowed on Thursday after Liturgy; as little food as possible on Friday. 

Sun, Apr 28 at 5:00 pm – Confession

Sun, Apr 28 at 6:00 pm – Bridegroom Matins

Mon, Apr 29 at 8:00 am – Pre-Sanctified Liturgy

Mon, Apr 29 at 5:00 pm – Confession

Mon, Apr 29 at 6:00 pm – Bridegroom Matins

Tues, Apr 30 at 8:00 am – Pre-Sanctified Liturgy

Tues, Apr 30 at 5:00 pm – Confession

Tues, Apr 30 at 6:00 pm – Bridegroom Matins

Wed, May 1 at 8:00 am – Pre-Sanctified Liturgy

Wed, May 1 at 5:00 pm – Confession

Wed, May 1 at 6:00 pm – Holy Unction Service

Thurs, May 2 at 9:00 am – Vesperal Liturgy of Holy Thursday

Thurs, May 2 at 6:00 pm – Twelve Passion Gospels

Fri, May 3 at 8:00 am – Royal Hours & Typika

Fri, May 3 at 3:00 pm – Great Vespers of Unnailing

Fri, May 3 at 4:00 pm – Holy Friday Vigil Begins

Fri, May 3 at 6:00 pm – Lamentations

Fri, May 3 at 8:00 pm – Holy Friday Vigil Continues

Sat, May 4 at 9:00 am – Chrismation of Anita Thomas & Vesperal Divine Liturgy

Sat, May 4 at 10:45 am – Brunch & Decorate the Church for Pascha

Sat, May 4 at 11:00 pm – Midnight Office, Rush Procession, & Paschal Matins

Sun, May 5 at 12:30 am – Paschal Liturgy & Banquet

Sun, May 5 at 1:00 pm – Agape Vespers @ St George Cathedral

Other Notes

(1) PASCHAL BANQUET: For this year’s Paschal Banquet, the parish will be providing kibbee and fried chicken. We ask all our parishioners to bring a side dish and/or dessert to share with others. As always, people are also welcome to bring their own basket of some of their favorite goodies. Please make sure to pick up after yourself when you leave.

(2) CONFESSIONS: Please remember that all Confessions prior to Pascha need to be made before the service of Holy Unction on Wednesday, May 1, at 6:00 pm. The only confessions heard after that will be from those coming home from out of town. The reason for this is to focus during the final holy days not on ourselves, but on the work Christ did on our behalf.

(3) MF MARKET HELP NEEDED: The Marketplace is one of the most profitable aspects of our Mediterranean Festival because it primarily relies on parishioners bringing various baked goods to sell. We ask that every family bring at least one item(s) (e.g., cake, cookies) to sell. Linked below you will find the Market Bulletin, discussing the types of baked goods we are seeking, as well as some helpful tips. We ask that you please indicate the items you intend to bring by signing up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-49007709-mediterranean#/. You will also find below a link to the Baking Form, which we ask you fill out so we can list the ingredients included in your baked goods. Thank you in advance for your support!

(4) WEEK OF FESTIVAL PREP DATES: We need many helpers during the week of the festival as we make the final preparations. We have put together a Sign-Up Genius page with all the work to be done, dates on which they will be done, and the number of people needed. Please review that document (https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-42317532-mediterranean#/) and sign up for any events when you can help.

(5) ORTHODOX YOUNG PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE: The Orthodox Young Professionals Conference (OYPC) is celebrating its tenth-anniversary conference this July 25-28 in Orange County, Calif. The keynote speaker, Fr. Evan Armatas, will discuss relationships, the challenges in finding a spouse, and the reasons why there are many unmarried young adults within the Church. The first 50 registrants will get a discount. A flyer with details is linked below.

(6) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares a teaching on “Holy Week and Us.” Read it here >

(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: https://tmts.transistor.fm/.

(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 (Apr 22 – Apr 29)

Beloved in Christ,

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

THIS WEEK: Apr 22 – 29, 2024
This Week: No meat/dairy allowed on any day of the week during Lent; wine allowed on Sat/Sun; fish allowed on Palm Sunday (Apr 28). 

Mon, Apr 22 at 5:30 pm – Parish Council Meeting
Wed, Apr 24 at 6:00 pm – 9th Hour & Typika w/Metropolitan Saba @ St George Cathedral
Wed, Apr 24 at 6:20 pm – Pre-Sanctified Liturgy w/Metropolitan Saba w/Meal Following @ St George Cathedral
Thurs, Apr 25 at 6:00 pm – Great Compline w/Metropolitan Saba
Thurs, Apr 25 at 7:00 pm – Meal and Q&A w/Metropolitan Saba
Fri, Apr 26 – Scroll Available on our Website
Fri, Apr 26 at 9:00 am – MF Prep: Salad Dressing (sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-40332120-mediterranean#/)
Fri, Apr 26 at 10:30 am – Pre-Sanctified Liturgy w/Metropolitan Saba @ St George Cathedral
Fri, Apr 26 at 6:00 pm – Little Compline w/Canon of St Lazarus
Sat, Apr 27 at 8:15 am – Festal Matins ~ Lazarus Saturday
Sat, Apr 27 at 9:00 am – Divine Liturgy ~ Lazarus Saturday
Sat, Apr 27 at 10:15 am – Brunch & Decorate the Church for Palm Sunday
Sat, Apr 27 at 12:30 pm – Children’s Day @ The Chancery w/Metropolitan Saba
Sat, Apr 27 at 4:00 pm – Confession (note the earlier than normal start time of 4:00 pm)
Sat, Apr 27 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers ~ Palm Sunday
Sun, Apr 28 at 8:45 am – Festal Matins ~ Palm Sunday
Sun, Apr 28 at 9:00 am – Church School
Sun, Apr 28 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
Sun, Apr 28 at 5:00 pm – Confession
Sun, Apr 28 at 6:00 pm – Bridegroom Matins
Mon, Apr 29 at 8:00 am – Pre-Sanctified Liturgy
Mon, Apr 29 at 5:00 pm – Confession
Mon, Apr 29 at 6:00 pm – Bridegroom Matins

Other Notes
(1) METROPOLITAN SABA’S VISIT TO ST MARY: We are blessed to receive His Eminence, Metropolitan Saba, on Thursday, April 25. We will celebrate Great Compline at 6:00 pm, followed by a Lenten meal and a Q&A session with His Eminence.

(2) LAZARUS SATURDAY AT THE CHANCERY: The annual Children’s Day at the Chancery will continue this year with His Eminence, Metropolitan Saba, receiving our diocese’s children. Details about the event, including what you can bring for the benefit of The Treehouse, are linked below.

(3) PASCHAL BANQUET: For this year’s Paschal Banquet, the parish will be providing kibbee and fried chicken. We ask all our parishioners to bring a side dish and/or dessert to share with others. As always, people are also welcome to bring their own basket of some of their favorite goodies.

(4) 2024 GRADUATES: If you have a High School or College Graduate this spring/summer, please send their picture and information to Brett Parrott (parrobre7014@yahoo.com) and Fr Aaron (stmarywichita@cox.net) for the next issue of The Scroll and for them to be recognized on Graduate Sunday.

(5) MF MARKET HELP NEEDED: The Marketplace is one of the most profitable aspects of our Mediterranean Festival because it primarily relies on parishioners bringing various baked goods to sell. We ask that every family bring at least one item(s) (e.g., cake, cookies) to sell. Linked below you will find the Market Bulletin, discussing the types of baked goods we are seeking, as well as some helpful tips. We ask that you please indicate the items you intend to bring by signing up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-49007709-mediterranean#/. You will also find below a link to the Baking Form, which we ask you fill out so we can list the ingredients included in your baked goods. Thank you in advance for your support!

(6) ORTHODOX YOUNG PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE: The Orthodox Young Professionals Conference (OYPC) is celebrating its tenth-anniversary conference this July 25-28 in Orange County, Calif. The keynote speaker, Fr. Evan Armatas, will discuss relationships, the challenges in finding a spouse, and the reasons why there are many unmarried young adults within the Church. The first 50 registrants will get a discount. A flyer with details is linked below.

(7) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares a teaching “On Repentance.” See the link to read it.

(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: https://tmts.transistor.fm/.

(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 (Apr 15 – Apr 22)

Beloved in Christ,

As a friendly reminder, please sign up if you plan to attend the service and/or meal on April 25 with Metropolitan Saba. Great Compline is at 6:00 pm with the Meal and Q&A to follow. You should sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-49007218-metropolitan. I hope everyone will adjust their schedules to be able to attend to receive the Metropolitan’s blessing.

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

THIS WEEK: Apr 15 – 22, 2024

This Week: No meat/dairy allowed on any day of the week during Lent; wine allowed on Sat/Sun; wine also allowed following the Great Canon on Wednesday evening. 

  • Mon, Apr 15 at 6:00 pm – Great Compline
  • Wed, Apr 17 at 6:00 pm – Little Compline w/Canon of Repentance & The Life of St Mary of Egypt
  • Thurs, Apr 18 at 6:00 pm – Pre-Sanctified Liturgy w/Meal Following
  • Fri, Apr 19 at 6:00 pm – Little Compline w/Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God
  • Sat, Apr 20 – Scroll Deadline (submissions sent to: parrobre7014@yahoo.com)
  • Sat, Apr 20 at 4:30 pm – Confession
  • Sat, Apr 20 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers
  • Sun, Apr 21 at 9:00 am – Matins
  • Sun, Apr 21 at 9:00 am – Church School
  • Sun, Apr 21 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
  • Sun, Apr 21 at 5:30 pm – Lord’s Diner
  • Mon, Apr 22 at 5:30 pm – Parish Council Meeting

Other Notes

(1) METROPOLITAN SABA’S VISIT TO ST MARY: We are blessed to receive His Eminence, Metropolitan Saba, on Thursday, April 25. We will celebrate Great Compline at 6:00 pm, followed by a Lenten meal and a Q&A session with His Eminence. Please sign up here if you are planning to attend: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-49007218-metropolitan

(2) LAZARUS SATURDAY AT THE CHANCERY: The annual Children’s Day at the Chancery will continue this year with His Eminence, Metropolitan Saba, receiving our diocese’s children. Details about the event, including what you can bring for the benefit of The Treehouse, are linked below. 

(3) PASCHAL BANQUET: For this year’s Paschal Banquet, the parish will be providing kibbee and fried chicken. We ask all our parishioners to bring a side dish and/or dessert to share with others. As always, people are also welcome to bring their own basket of some of their favorite goodies.

(4) 2024 GRADUATES: If you have a High School or College Graduate this spring/summer, please send their picture and information to Brett Parrott (parrobre7014@yahoo.com) and Fr Aaron (stmarywichita@cox.net) for the next issue of The Scroll and for them to be recognized on Graduate Sunday. 

(5) MF MARKET HELP NEEDED: The Marketplace is one of the most profitable aspects of our Mediterranean Festival because it primarily relies on parishioners bringing various baked goods to sell. We ask that every family bring at least one item(s) (e.g., cake, cookies) to sell. Linked below you will find the Market Bulletin, discussing the types of baked goods we are seeking, as well as some helpful tips. We ask that you please indicate the items you intend to bring by signing up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-49007709-mediterranean#/. You will also find below a link to the Baking Form, which we ask you fill out so we can list the ingredients included in your baked goods. Thank you in advance for your support!

(6) ORTHODOX YOUNG PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE: The Orthodox Young Professionals Conference (OYPC) is celebrating its tenth-anniversary conference this July 25-28 in Orange County, Calif. The keynote speaker, Fr. Evan Armatas, will discuss relationships, the challenges in finding a spouse, and the reasons why there are many unmarried young adults within the Church. The first 50 registrants will get a discount. A flyer with details is linked below.

(7) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares the second part of a video interview discussing the successes he has seen across the Archdiocese and his vision for building upon them. He also addresses important topics for the future of the Archdiocese, including the establishment of monasteries and the addition of more auxiliary bishops. The interview can be found here: https://www.antiochian.org/regulararticle/2013.

(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: https://tmts.transistor.fm/.

(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 (Apr 1 – Apr 8)

Beloved in Christ,

I am happy to share that Metropolitan Saba’s visit to our parish on Thursday, April 25, has been officially confirmed by the Archdiocese. We will host His Eminence for the service of Great Compline at 6:00 pm that evening, followed by a Lenten meal and a Q&A session with him. I hope that everyone in our parish makes every effort to attend that evening and to meet Metropolitan Saba.

Please find linked below the February 2024 Parish Council Meeting Minutes. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me or PC Chair, Paula Zarich (pzarich@cox.net). Below you will also find this week’s schedule, as well as some important notes about upcoming events.

THIS WEEK: Apr 1 – 8, 2024

This Week: No meat/dairy allowed on any day of the week during Lent; wine allowed on Sat/Sun.

  • Mon, Apr 1 at 6:00 pm – Great Compline
  • Wed, Apr 3 at 6:00 pm – 9th Hour & Typika
  • Wed, Apr 3 at 6:20 pm – Pre-Sanctified Liturgy w/Meal Following (Hosting St George)
  • Fri, Apr 5 at 6:00 pm – Little Compline w/Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God
  • Sat, Apr 6 at 9:00 am – MF Prep: Make Baklawa SticksSIGN UP >
  • Sat, Apr 6 at 4:30 pm – Confession
  • Sat, Apr 6 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers
  • Sat, Apr 6 at 6:00 pm – 20/40 Fellowship @ Sophia Jacobs’s (2722 E 101st St N, Valley Center)
  • Sun, Apr 7 at 9:00 am – Matins
  • Sun, Apr 7 at 9:00 am – Church School
  • Sun, Apr 7 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
  • Sun, Apr 7 at 11:30 am – Potluck Coffee Hour
  • Mon, Apr 8 at 6:00 pm – Great Compline

Other Notes

(1) LENTEN RETREAT: We look forward to welcoming Fr Stephen Freeman to serve as our retreat master for our annual Lenten Retreat on April 12 – 13. Everyone is welcome. Please feel free to invite family and friends. Details about Fr Stephen and the retreat topic and schedule can be found here >

(2) HOSTING ST GEORGE: We will be hosting the St George Cathedral community on Wednesday, April 3, for the Pre-Sanctified Liturgy. Following that Liturgy we will provide a meal for both communities. We need everyone’s help to ensure there is plenty of food to share. You can see the linked flyer for details.

(3) 20/40 FELLOWSHIP MEETING: Our 20/40 Fellowship Group (for ages 20 – 40ish) is planning to meet on Saturday, April 6, following Great Vespers at the home of Sophia Jacobs (2722 E 101st St N, Valley Center). All in that age group are welcome to attend.

(4) PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Teen SOYO is offering a Pancake breakfast after Divine Liturgy on Sunday, April 14, with various fruits and other sugary items. Freewill offering accepted.

(5) METROPOLITAN SABA’S VISIT TO ST MARY: We are blessed to receive His Eminence, Metropolitan Saba, on Thursday, April 25. We will celebrate Great Compline at 6:00 pm, followed by a Lenten meal and a Q&A session with His Eminence.

(6) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week, His Eminence shares a teaching on “The One Pascha.” Read it here >

(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 >

(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 (Mar 24 – Apr 1)

Beloved in Christ,

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

THIS WEEK: Mar 24 – Apr 1, 2024

This Week: No meat/dairy allowed on any day of the week during Lent; wine allowed on Sat/Sun; fish & wine allowed AFTER Monday 3/25 Liturgy.        

  • Sun, Mar 24 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers ~ Annunciation
  • Mon, Mar 25 at 6:00 pm – Vesperal Divine Liturgy ~ Annunciation
  • Wed, Mar 27 at 6:00 pm – Pre-Sanctified Liturgy w/Potluck Following
  • Thurs, Mar 28 at 5:30 pm – Parish Council Meeting
  • Fri, Mar 29 at 6:00 pm – Little Compline w/Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God
  • Sat, Mar 30 at 8:00 am – MF Prep: Make Kibbee (sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090F44AAA92AA7FB6-40332120-mediterranean#/)
  • Sat, Mar 30 at 4:30 pm – Confession
  • Sat, Mar 30 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers
  • Sun, Mar 31 at 9:00 am – Matins
  • Sun, Mar 31 at 9:00 am – Church School
  • Sun, Mar 31 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
  • Sun, Mar 31 at 11:30 am – Assemble IOCC Emergency Hygiene Kits at Coffee Hour

Other Notes

(1) LENTEN RETREAT: We look forward to welcoming Fr Stephen Freeman to serve as our retreat master for our annual Lenten Retreat on April 12 – 13. Everyone is welcome. Please feel free to invite family and friends. Details about Fr Stephen and the retreat topic and schedule can be found here (see attachment).

(2) HOSTING ST GEORGE: We are hosting the St George Cathedral community on Wednesday, April 3, for the Pre-Sanctified Liturgy. Following that Liturgy we will provide a meal for both communities. We need everyone’s help to ensure there is plenty of food to share. You can see the linked flyer for details.

(3) LORD’S DINER: We are volunteering with our brothers and sisters in Christ from St George Cathedral at the Lord’s Diner the 3rd Sunday of each month. In March, that will be TODAY, March 17. Volunteers do NOT need a food handler’s card, as was the case in the past. Anyone can volunteer. If you are interested, please contact Vicki Jones (vawj55@gmail.com).

(4) PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Teen SOYO is offering a Pancake breakfast after Divine Liturgy on Sunday, April 14, with various fruits and other sugary items. Freewill offering accepted.

(5) 20/40 FELLOWSHIP MEETING: Our 20/40 Fellowship Group (for ages 20 – 40ish) is planning to meet on Saturday, April 6, following Great Vespers at the home of Sophia Jacobs (2722 E 101st St N, Valley Center). All in that age group are welcome to attend.

(6) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares a teaching on “On Lent.” Read it here >

(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: https://tmts.transistor.fm/.

(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 (Mar 17 – 25)

Beloved in Christ,

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

THIS WEEK: Mar 17 – 15, 2024

This Week: No meat/dairy allowed on any day of the week; wine allowed on Sat/Sun; fish & wine allowed AFTER Monday 3/25 Liturgy.        

  • Sun, Mar 17 at 3:30 pm – Forgiveness Vespers & Ice Cream Social @ Braum’s
  • Sun, Mar 17 at 5:30 pm – Lord’s Diner (see note below)
  • Mon, Mar 18 at 6:00 pm – Great Compline w/Canon of Repentance
  • Tues, Mar 19 at 6:00 pm – Great Compline w/Canon of Repentance
  • Wed, Mar 20 at 6:00 pm – Pre-Sanctified Liturgy w/Potluck Following
  • Thurs, Mar 21 at 6:00 pm – Great Compline w/Canon of Repentance
  • Fri, Mar 22 at 6:00 pm – Little Compline w/Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God
  • Sat, Mar 23 at 4:30 pm – Confession
  • Sat, Mar 23 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers
  • Sun, Mar 24 at 9:00 am – Matins
  • Sun, Mar 24 at 9:00 am – Church School
  • Sun, Mar 24 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
  • Sun, Mar 24 at 10:30 am – Catechism Class
  • Sun, Mar 24 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers ~ Annunciation
  • Mon, Mar 25 at 6:00 pm – Vesperal Divine Liturgy ~ Annunciation

Other Notes

(1) LENTEN RETREAT: We look forward to welcoming Fr Stephen Freeman to serve as our retreat master for our annual Lenten Retreat on April 12 – 13. Everyone is welcome. Please feel free to invite family and friends. Details about Fr Stephen and the retreat topic and schedule can be found here (see attachment).

(2) LENT BEGINS: This year, Great Lent begins on Monday, March 18. As usual, Divine Services are scheduled at 6:00 pm each weeknight of the first week of Lent. Most other weeks, we will celebrate the services on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. During Great Lent, we fast from meat and dairy products on all days of the week. Following the Divine Liturgy for Annunciation on Monday, March 25, fish and wine are allowed.

(3) LORD’S DINER: We are volunteering with our brothers and sisters in Christ from St George Cathedral at the Lord’s Diner the 3rd Sunday of each month. In March, that will be TODAY, March 17. Volunteers do NOT need a food handler’s card, as was the case in the past. Anyone can volunteer. If you are interested, please contact Vicki Jones (vawj55@gmail.com).

(4) HOSTING ST GEORGE: We are hosting the St George Cathedral community on Wednesday, April 3, for the Pre-Sanctified Liturgy. Following that Liturgy, we will provide a meal for both communities. We need everyone’s help to ensure there is plenty of food to share. You can see the linked flyer for details.

(5) BELLES MAKING HOLY BREAD: The Belles will be making Holy Bread on Saturday, March 30, beginning at 7:30 am. In addition, they will begin preparing some of the food to be served for our joint Pre-Sanctified when we host the St George Cathedral community (Wednesday, April 3).

(6) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence shares a teaching on “Navigating the Storm.” Read it here >

(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: https://tmts.transistor.fm/.

(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 (Mar 11 – 18)

Beloved in Christ,

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

THIS WEEK: Mar 11 – 18, 2024

This Week: No meat allowed any day of the week; fish, dairy, wine allowed all days, including Wed/Fri.        

  • Mon, Mar 11 at 6:30 pm – Belles Meeting @ Namee’s (1958 N Sedgwick)
  • Sat, Mar 16 at 8:00 am – MF Prep: Make Kibbee (see signup details below)
  • Sat, Mar 16 at 4:30 pm – Confession
  • Sat, Mar 16 at 5:00 pm – Great Vespers
  • Sun, Mar 17 at 9:00 am – Matins
  • Sun, Mar 17 – NO Church School
  • Sun, Mar 17 at 10:00 am – Divine Liturgy
  • Sun, Mar 17 at 3:30 pm – Forgiveness Vespers & Ice Cream Social @ Braum’s
  • Sun, Mar 17 at 5:30 pm – Lord’s Diner (see note below)
  • Mon, Mar 18 at 6:00 pm – Great Compline w/Canon of Repentance

Other Notes

(1) MEDITERRANEAN FESTIVAL PREP: We have one more important work day in March before we enter Great Lent (Saturday, March 16). We need many people to help. You may sign up to help here > Thank you to all of those who helped with the Meat Pies this past Saturday!

(2) LENTEN RETREAT: We look forward to welcoming Fr Stephen Freeman to serve as our retreat master for our annual Lenten Retreat on April 12 – 13. Everyone is welcome. Please feel free to invite family and friends. Details about Fr Stephen and the retreat topic and schedule can be found here >

(3) LENT BEGINS: This year, Great Lent begins on Monday, March 18. As usual, we have Divine Services scheduled at 6:00 pm each weeknight of the first week of Lent. Most other weeks we will celebrate the services on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. During Great Lent, we fast from meat and dairy products on all days of the week. Following the Divine Liturgy for Annunciation on Monday, March 25, fish and wine are allowed.

(4) LORD’S DINER: We are volunteering with our brothers and sisters in Christ from St George Cathedral at the Lord’s Diner the 3rd Sunday of each month. In March, that will be March 17. Volunteers do NOT need a food handler’s card, as was the case in the past. Anyone can volunteer. If you are interested, please contact Vicki Jones (vawj55@gmail.com).

(5) HOSTING ST GEORGE: We will be hosting the St George Cathedral community on Wednesday, April 3, for the Pre-Sanctified Liturgy. Following that Liturgy we will provide a meal for both communities. We need everyone’s help to ensure there is plenty of food to share. You can see the linked flyer for details.

(6) METROPOLITAN SABA’S WEEKLY TEACHING: This week His Eminence asks that we remember/learn about the life of our former Metropolitan Philip, of thrice blessed memory, whose 10th anniversary of repose we will commemorate next Sunday, March 17. I hope you all will read about him and I will plan to speak briefly about my own experiences with him next Sunday. You can read about him here > May his memory be eternal!

(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 >

(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