Diversity exists in the body of Christ, Archbishop Elpidophoros says at ecumenical prayer service

By Salvatore Ambrosino
January 30, 2026

Last night, an ecumenical prayer service took place at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, led by clergy from several Christian traditions.

The service was offered as part of the World Council of Churches’ 58th annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. This year’s theme draws from Ephesians 4:4: “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling.”

> Watch:Ecumenical Prayer Service for the 58th Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

The program included prayers from the Armenian Apostolic tradition, chanting by the Archdiocesan Cathedral... show moreDiversity exists in the body of Christ, Archbishop Elpidophoros says at ecumenical prayer service

By Salvatore Ambrosino
January 30, 2026

Last night, an ecumenical prayer service took place at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, led by clergy from several Christian traditions.

The service was offered as part of the World Council of Churches’ 58th annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. This year’s theme draws from Ephesians 4:4: “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling.”

> Watch:Ecumenical Prayer Service for the 58th Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

The program included prayers from the Armenian Apostolic tradition, chanting by the Archdiocesan Cathedral Choir and the St. Vartan Cathedral Choir, and remarks by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America.

“To move beyond our ecclesial insularity,” Archbishop Elpidophoros said, “we must endeavor to intentionally embrace the diversity that already exists in the Body of Christ.”

> Read: Archbishop Elpidophoros installed as National Council of Churches board chair

His Eminence Cardinal Timothy Dolan, currently serving as Apostolic Administrator of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York, offered the homily and stated that “the friendship” he has experienced with the celebrants “ranks high” as his nearly-17 years as archbishop comes to an end

“We are most unified when we are most united to Christ on His Cross,” Cardinal Dolan said, explaining that the experience of suffering worldwide unifies Christians of all backgrounds.

Cardinal Dolan listed mounting global tensions and active conflicts that contribute to the “scandal of division that mocks the desire of Jesus Himself.” Among these, Cardinal Dolan invoked the “harassment our immigrants and refugees face.”

Archbishop Elpidophoros called the homily “enriching,” and presented Cardinal Dolan with a silver pectoral cross.

“I am, with profound joy, honored to present you with this silver pectoral cross as a token of our gratitude, fraternal affection, and enduring esteem,” Archbishop Elpidophoros said.

Archbishop Elpidophoros also expressed his appreciation for the Armenian Apostolic Church, stating “the service which we celebrated this evening is certainly redolent with the sweet savor of the glorious traditions of the Armenian Apostolic Church.”

“As we come to the conclusion of our service observing this year’s Octave for Christian Unity, as it was once called, I want to thank His Eminence Cardinal Dolan for his enriching homily, and all the Ecumenical leaders and faithful who have graced our Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity with their prayerful presence,” Archbishop Elpidophoros stated.

https://orthodoxobserver.org/diversity-exists-in-the-body-of-christ-archbishop-elpidophoros-says-at-ecumenical-prayer-service/ ...show less

February 01

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee: Triodion Begins Today

The Pharisees were an ancient and outstanding sect among the Jews known for their diligent observance of the outward matters of the Law. Although, according to the word of our Lord, they "did all their works to be seen of men" (Matt. 23:5), and were hypocrites (ibid. 23: 13, 14, 15, etc.), because of the apparent holiness of their lives they were thought by all to be righteous, and separate from others, which is what the name Pharisee means. On the other hand, Publicans, collectors of the royal taxes, committed many injustices and extortions for filthy lucre's sake, and all held them to be sinners and unjust. It was therefore according to common opinion... show moreFebruary 01

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee: Triodion Begins Today

The Pharisees were an ancient and outstanding sect among the Jews known for their diligent observance of the outward matters of the Law. Although, according to the word of our Lord, they "did all their works to be seen of men" (Matt. 23:5), and were hypocrites (ibid. 23: 13, 14, 15, etc.), because of the apparent holiness of their lives they were thought by all to be righteous, and separate from others, which is what the name Pharisee means. On the other hand, Publicans, collectors of the royal taxes, committed many injustices and extortions for filthy lucre's sake, and all held them to be sinners and unjust. It was therefore according to common opinion that the Lord Jesus in His parable signified a virtuous person by a Pharisee, and a sinner by a Publican, to teach His disciples the harm of pride and the profit of humble-mindedness.

Since the chief weapon for virtue is humility, and the greatest hindrance to it is pride, the divine Fathers have set these three weeks before the Forty-day Fast as a preparation for the spiritual struggles of virtue. This present week they have called Harbinger, since it declares that the Fast is approaching; and they set humility as the foundation for all our spiritual labors by appointing that the parable of the Publican and the Pharisee be read today, even before the Fast begins, to teach, through the vaunting of the Pharisee, that the foul smoke of self-esteem and the stench of boasting drives away the grace of the Spirit, strips man of all his virtue, and casts him into the pits of Hades; and, through the repentance and contrite prayer of the Publican, that humility confers upon the sinner forgiveness of all his wicked deeds and raises him up to the greatest heights.

All foods are allowed the week that follows this Sunday. ...show less

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

Please join in prayer for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord:

STEVE MAVRAKIS, (40 DAYS), brother of Nick and George, friend of Jim

EVANGELOS MOUSTAKAS (40 DAYS), husband of Marina Moustakas, father of Aristides (Yvonne) Moustakas and Sophia (Robert) Marx, grandfather of Alexia, Andreas, and Mikey, brother-in-law of Vana Katsoudas

ARGIRO ROULA FILIPIDIS BABAIE (15 YRS), wife of Kardel Babaie, mother of Jennifer and Yianni

May their memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Georgia Golfinopoulos, Presvytera Vasso Kumarelas, Presvytera Stephanie Pantic, and Eleni Veloudis in the Small Hall with support from families with memorial services.... show moreSUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

Please join in prayer for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord:

STEVE MAVRAKIS, (40 DAYS), brother of Nick and George, friend of Jim

EVANGELOS MOUSTAKAS (40 DAYS), husband of Marina Moustakas, father of Aristides (Yvonne) Moustakas and Sophia (Robert) Marx, grandfather of Alexia, Andreas, and Mikey, brother-in-law of Vana Katsoudas

ARGIRO ROULA FILIPIDIS BABAIE (15 YRS), wife of Kardel Babaie, mother of Jennifer and Yianni

May their memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Georgia Golfinopoulos, Presvytera Vasso Kumarelas, Presvytera Stephanie Pantic, and Eleni Veloudis in the Small Hall with support from families with memorial services. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts for February 8, 2026: The Golden Years

**Please note: Printed Sunday scripture readings are available in the Narthex** ...show less

STEWARDSHIP SUNDAY – FEBRUARY 1ST
We invite all parishioners to attend the Divine Liturgy with their completed stewardship card on Stewardship Sunday scheduled on Sunday, February 1st and to experience the sprirtual blessings that come from being a faithful steward of Saint Nicholas. This year's stewardship theme, Rise Up and Build, calls each of us to take an active role in strengthening our parish community.

If you prefer to make your 2026 Stewardship Commitment online, please use the following link: https://saintnicholas.org/stewardship

FEASTDAY OF THE THREE HIERARCHS
On Sunday, February 1st, during the Divine Liturgy and before Holy Communion, there will be a reading about the Three Hierarchs from the students of the Center... show moreSTEWARDSHIP SUNDAY – FEBRUARY 1ST
We invite all parishioners to attend the Divine Liturgy with their completed stewardship card on Stewardship Sunday scheduled on Sunday, February 1st and to experience the sprirtual blessings that come from being a faithful steward of Saint Nicholas. This year's stewardship theme, Rise Up and Build, calls each of us to take an active role in strengthening our parish community.

If you prefer to make your 2026 Stewardship Commitment online, please use the following link: https://saintnicholas.org/stewardship

FEASTDAY OF THE THREE HIERARCHS
On Sunday, February 1st, during the Divine Liturgy and before Holy Communion, there will be a reading about the Three Hierarchs from the students of the Center of Hellenic Education and Sunday School.

GOYA MEETING
GOYA will meet on Sunday, February 1st from 11:30am to 12:15pm. See you there!

For more information email Eva Vathis at eperakis1@aol.com .

GOLDEN YEARS ANNUAL VALENTINE'S LUNCHEON
Please join us for the annual Golden Years Seniors Valentine’s Day Luncheon on Sunday, February 8, 2026 in the Community Center immediately following the Divine Liturgy. See the flyer in the Special Events Section.

PARKING IN RED AND BLUE ZONES - PLEASE HEED PARKING RESTRICTIONS
It has been brought to our attention that vehicles have been seen parking in multiple red-zoned areas and blue-zoned areas of our parking lot. We ask that you please obey all marked parking restrictions. Thank you.

HOUSE BLESSINGS
We invite any parishioners who would like to have their house blessed for the Epiphany season to contact the office (408-246-2770) to schedule with one of our priests. Please schedule now until February 2nd.

ST. NICHOLAS BIBLE STUDY - THURSDAY MORNINGS
Come and see, hear and taste that the Lord is Good! St. Nicholas Bible Study continues on Thursdays at 10:00am with Fr. James in the Church Office Conference Room. Bring your Bible; coffee and refreshments provided. Theme: Reflecting on the Sunday Gospels.

ST. ANNA PHILOPTOCHOS
Become a Saint Anna Philoptochos Member Today! To sign up on-line or get a membership form mailed to you, go to the following link: https://saintnicholas.org/philoptochos_member

YOUTH BASKETBALL - TEAM PRACTICES BEGIN IN JANUARY
The St Nicholas youth basketball program is starting team practices for the Spring '26 season. First games are Sunday March 1st. New players of all skill and experience levels welcome. There is especially a need to fill out our Elementary boys roster; calling on all 2nd grade through 5th grade boys come join us this Thursday Feb 5th at 6:45-8:00 in the Community Center for practice. Contact Coach John with any questions, jcocoles5@gmail.com.

Boys Elementary (3rd-5th Grade) are practicing this Thursday Feb 5th at 6:45. Future practice days are pending a parent meeting on this day.

Girls Elementary (3rd-5th Grade) and Middle School (6th-8th Grade) are practicing weekly Mondays at 6:30-7:45 (note Feb 2nd moved to Thur Feb 5th at same time)

Boys Middle School (6th-8th Grade) are practicing weekly on Tuesdays at 6:45

Boys High School (9th-12th Grade) will begin practices in mid-Feburary (after FDF) Those wishing to participate earlier can join the MS boys practices on Tuesdays.

All new players (including siblings of returning players) MUST register here: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/128/responses/new Returning players do NOT need to re-register. New players are welcome.

UNIFORM RETURN: If you still have your uniform from last year, we NEED them returned ASAP. Bring to practice or give them to a Coach or John Cocoles during Sunday Coffee hour. We need to know how many new uniforms we may need to buy and which sizes.

The Orthodox Youth Athletic Association is a recreational league with other Orthodox churches in the Bay Area with games typically on Sunday afternoons starting soon after FDF in February. We look forward to another fun and successful season. To register: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. If you have any questions, please contact John Cocoles at basketball@saintnicholas.org or jcocoles5@gmail.com ...show less

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE BY LIVESTREAM ON YOUTUBE UNDER THE NAME: SAINT NICHOLAS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH SAN JOSE.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1x-nHP063YTTMrevkzL21w/

Sunday, February 1 - Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee - Triodion Begins
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, February 2 - Presentation of our Lord
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, February 8 - Sunday of the Prodigal Son
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

YOUTH SINGERS WANTED!
Talented young people who love to sing are invited to perform in a beautiful choral concert of Greek Orthodox hymns, joining with singers from several local churches, on Sat., May 23, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in San Francisco. Students in 2nd grade through high school will sing the youth choir parts along with other youth and adult singers. A wonderful opportunity to learn and perform the beautiful music of our church! Three Sunday rehearsals. Contact Voula Brown, (408) 426-7630 or voula@garlic.com. Or Eva Canellos, 650-400-1610 or cecanellos@aol.com.


SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1: Sunday School classes
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8: Sunday School classes

ONE-CLICK GIVING!
Our church website has upgraded to Pushpay for all online donations, tithes, and a number of other transactions - making giving simpler, faster, and more secure.

Key Benefits for you:

One-Click Giving: Set up recurring tithes in seconds or make one-time gifts with ease.
Safe & Secure: Bank-level encryption protects your information.
Text-to-Give: Simply text “GIVE” to (833) 921-7035 to donate instantly.
Track Your Giving: View your donation history and print tax statements anytime.
Give from Anywhere: Use your phone, tablet, or computer.
Visit https://saintnicholas.org/donation to donate and set up your account.

Your generosity fuels our ministries, outreach, and mission to love God and serve others.

STEWARDSHIP
To... show moreONE-CLICK GIVING!
Our church website has upgraded to Pushpay for all online donations, tithes, and a number of other transactions - making giving simpler, faster, and more secure.

Key Benefits for you:

One-Click Giving: Set up recurring tithes in seconds or make one-time gifts with ease.
Safe & Secure: Bank-level encryption protects your information.
Text-to-Give: Simply text “GIVE” to (833) 921-7035 to donate instantly.
Track Your Giving: View your donation history and print tax statements anytime.
Give from Anywhere: Use your phone, tablet, or computer.
Visit https://saintnicholas.org/donation to donate and set up your account.

Your generosity fuels our ministries, outreach, and mission to love God and serve others.

STEWARDSHIP
To make a committment electronically, please visit our online stewardship: https://saintnicholas.org/stewardship

Donation link: https://saintnicholas.org/donation ...show less

Matins Gospel Reading
First Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Matthew 28:16-20

At that time, the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw Him they worshiped Him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age. Amen."

First Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Ματθαῖον 28:16-20

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, οἱ ἕνδεκα μαθηταὶ ἐπορεύθησαν εἰς... show moreMatins Gospel Reading
First Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Matthew 28:16-20

At that time, the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw Him they worshiped Him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age. Amen."

First Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Ματθαῖον 28:16-20

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, οἱ ἕνδεκα μαθηταὶ ἐπορεύθησαν εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν, εἰς τὸ Ὄρος, οὗ ἐτάξατο αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς. Καὶ ἰδόντες αὐτόν, προσεκύνησαν αὐτῷ· οἱ δὲ ἐδίστασαν. Καὶ προσελθὼν ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ἐλάλησεν αὐτοῖς, λέγων· Ἐδόθη μοι πᾶσα ἐξουσία ἐν οὐρανῷ καὶ ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς. Πορευθέντες οὖν, μαθητεύσατε πάντα τὰ ἔθνη, βαπτίζοντες αὐτοὺς εἰς τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Πατρός, καὶ τοῦ Υἱοῦ, καὶ τοῦ Ἁγίου Πνεύματος· διδάσκοντες αὐτοὺς τηρεῖν πάντα ὅσα ἐνετειλάμην ὑμῖν. Καὶ ἰδού, ἐγὼ μεθ' ὑμῶν εἰμι πάσας τὰς ἡμέρας, ἕως τῆς συντελείας τοῦ αἰῶνος. Ἀμήν.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. 4th Mode. Psalm 15.3,8.
Among the saints who are in his land, the Lord has been wondrous.
Verse: I see the Lord before me continually.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Romans 8:28-39.

Brethren, we know that everything works for good with those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the first-born among many brethren. And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.

What then shall we say to this? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, will he not also give us all things with him? Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies; who is to condemn? It is Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, "For thy sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Προκείμενον. 4th Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 15.3,8.
Τοῖς ἁγίοις τοῖς ἐν τῇ γῇ αὐτοῦ ἐθαυμάστωσεν ὁ Κύριος.
Στίχ. Προωρώμην τὸν Κύριον ἐνώπιόν μου διαπαντός.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς ῾Ρωμαίους 8:28-39.

Ἀδελφοί, οἴδαμεν δὲ ὅτι τοῖς ἀγαπῶσιν τὸν θεὸν πάντα συνεργεῖ εἰς ἀγαθόν, τοῖς κατὰ πρόθεσιν κλητοῖς οὖσιν. Ὅτι οὓς προέγνω, καὶ προώρισεν συμμόρφους τῆς εἰκόνος τοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ, εἰς τὸ εἶναι αὐτὸν πρωτότοκον ἐν πολλοῖς ἀδελφοῖς· οὓς δὲ προώρισεν, τούτους καὶ ἐκάλεσεν· καὶ οὓς ἐκάλεσεν, τούτους καὶ ἐδικαίωσεν· οὓς δὲ ἐδικαίωσεν, τούτους καὶ ἐδόξασεν. Τί οὖν ἐροῦμεν πρὸς ταῦτα; Εἰ ὁ θεὸς ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν, τίς καθʼ ἡμῶν; Ὅς γε τοῦ ἰδίου υἱοῦ οὐκ ἐφείσατο, ἀλλʼ ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν πάντων παρέδωκεν αὐτόν, πῶς οὐχὶ καὶ σὺν αὐτῷ τὰ πάντα ἡμῖν χαρίσεται; Τίς ἐγκαλέσει κατὰ ἐκλεκτῶν θεοῦ; Θεὸς ὁ δικαιῶν· τίς ὁ κατακρίνων; Χριστὸς ὁ ἀποθανών, μᾶλλον δὲ καί ἐγερθείς, ὃς καὶ ἔστιν ἐν δεξιᾷ τοῦ θεοῦ, ὃς καὶ ἐντυγχάνει ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν. Τίς ἡμᾶς χωρίσει ἀπὸ τῆς ἀγάπης τοῦ Χριστοῦ; Θλῖψις, ἢ στενοχωρία, ἢ διωγμός, ἢ λιμός, ἢ γυμνότης, ἢ κίνδυνος, ἢ μάχαιρα; Καθὼς γέγραπται ὅτι Ἕνεκέν σου θανατούμεθα ὅλην τὴν ἡμέραν· ἐλογίσθημεν ὡς πρόβατα σφαγῆς. Ἀλλʼ ἐν τούτοις πᾶσιν ὑπερνικῶμεν διὰ τοῦ ἀγαπήσαντος ἡμᾶς. Πέπεισμαι γὰρ ὅτι οὔτε θάνατος οὔτε ζωὴ οὔτε ἄγγελοι οὔτε ἀρχαὶ οὔτε δυνάμεις οὔτε ἐνεστῶτα οὔτε μέλλοντα οὔτε ὕψωμα οὔτε βάθος οὔτε τις κτίσις ἑτέρα δυνήσεται ἡμᾶς χωρίσαι ἀπὸ τῆς ἀγάπης τοῦ θεοῦ τῆς ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ τῷ κυρίῳ ἡμῶν.

Gospel Reading
Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee: Triodion Begins Today
The Reading is from Luke 18:10-14

The Lord said this parable, "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted."

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee: Triodion Begins Today
Κατὰ Λουκᾶν 18:10-14

Εἶπεν ὁ Κύριος τήν παραβολὴν ταύτην· Ἄνθρωποι δύο ἀνέβησαν εἰς τὸ ἱερὸν προσεύξασθαι, ὁ εἷς Φαρισαῖος καὶ ὁ ἕτερος τελώνης. ὁ Φαρισαῖος σταθεὶς πρὸς ἑαυτὸν ταῦτα προσηύχετο· ὁ Θεός, εὐχαριστῶ σοι ὅτι οὐκ εἰμὶ ὥσπερ οἱ λοιποὶ τῶν ἀνθρώπων, ἅρπαγες, ἄδικοι, μοιχοί, ἢ καὶ ὡς οὗτος ὁ τελώνης· νηστεύω δὶς τοῦ σαββάτου, ἀποδεκατῶ πάντα ὅσα κτῶμαι. καὶ ὁ τελώνης μακρόθεν ἑστὼς οὐκ ἤθελεν οὐδὲ τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς εἰς τὸν οὐρανὸν ἐπᾶραι, ἀλλ᾿ ἔτυπτεν εἰς τὸ στῆθος αὐτοῦ λέγων· ὁ Θεός, ἱλάσθητί μοι τῷ ἁμαρτωλῷ. λέγω ὑμῖν, κατέβη οὗτος δεδικαιωμένος εἰς τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ ἢ γὰρ ἐκεῖνος· ὅτι πᾶς ὁ ὑψῶν ἑαυτὸν ταπεινωθήσεται, ὁ δὲ ταπεινῶν ἑαυτὸν ὑψωθήσεται. ...show less

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the 1st Mode
Although the stone was sealed by the Jews, and the soldiers guarded Your most pure body, You arose on the third day, O Savior, giving life to the world. For this reason, the heavenly powers cried out to you, O Giver of Life: Glory to Your resurrection, O Christ! Glory to Your kingdom! Glory to Your dispensation, only Lover of Mankind!

Τοῦ λίθου σφραγισθέντος ὑπὸ τῶν Ἰουδαίων, καὶ στρατιωτῶν φυλασσόντων τὸ ἄχραντόν σου σῶμα, ἀνέστης τριήμερος Σωτήρ, δωρούμενος τῷ κόσμῳ τὴν ζωήν. Διὰ τοῦτο αἱ Δυνάμεις τῶν οὐρανῶν ἐβόων... show moreResurrectional Apolytikion in the 1st Mode
Although the stone was sealed by the Jews, and the soldiers guarded Your most pure body, You arose on the third day, O Savior, giving life to the world. For this reason, the heavenly powers cried out to you, O Giver of Life: Glory to Your resurrection, O Christ! Glory to Your kingdom! Glory to Your dispensation, only Lover of Mankind!

Τοῦ λίθου σφραγισθέντος ὑπὸ τῶν Ἰουδαίων, καὶ στρατιωτῶν φυλασσόντων τὸ ἄχραντόν σου σῶμα, ἀνέστης τριήμερος Σωτήρ, δωρούμενος τῷ κόσμῳ τὴν ζωήν. Διὰ τοῦτο αἱ Δυνάμεις τῶν οὐρανῶν ἐβόων σοι Ζωοδότα· Δόξα τῇ ἀναστάσει σου Χριστέ, δόξα τῇ Βασιλείᾳ σου, δόξα τῇ οἰκονομίᾳ σου, μόνε Φιλάνθρωπε.

Apolytikion for Forefeast of the Meeting of the Lord in the 1st Mode
The Heavens' choir looked down from the vaults of the Heavens, and gazing on the earth, they beheld with amazement the First-born of all creation brought forth as a suckling babe to the Temple by a pure and virginal mother; and with us, they now do sing a hymn for the Forefeast, astonished and full of awe.

Ουράνιος χορός, ουρανίων αψίδων, προκύψας επί γής, καί φερόμενον βλέπων, ως βρέφος υπομάζιον, πρός ναόν τόν πρωτότοκον, πάσης κτίσεως, υπό Μητρός απειράνδρου, προεόρτιον, νύν σύν ημίν μελωδούσι, φρικτώς εξιστάμενοι.

Apolytikion for Martyr Trypho in the 4th Mode

Thy Martyr, O Lord, in his courageous contest for Thee received as the prize the crowns of incorruption and life from Thee, our immortal God. For since he possessed Thy strength, he cast down the tyrants and wholly destroyed the demons' strengthless presumption. O Christ God, by his prayers, save our souls, since Thou art merciful.

Ο Μάρτυς σου Κύριε, έν τή αθλήσει αυτού, τό στέφος εκομίσατο τής αφθαρσίας, εκ σού τού Θεού ημών, έχων γάρ τήν ισχύν σου, τούς τυράννους καθείλεν, έθραυσε καί δαιμόνων, τά ανίσχυρα θράση, αυτού ταίς ικεσίαις Χριστέ, σώσον τάς ψυχάς ημών.

Apolytikion of Saint Nicholas in the 1st Mode

An example of the faith and a life of humility, as a teacher of self-control you did inspire and lead your flock, and through the truthfulness of your deeds, were exalted by greatness through your humility, uplifting all, and by poverty gaining strength. Father and hierarch Saint Nicholas, intercede with Christ our God, that our souls may be saved.

Κανόνα πίστεως καί εικόνα πραότητος, εγκρατείας Διδάσκαλον, ανέδειξέ σε τή ποίμνη σου, η τών πραγμάτων αλήθεια, διά τούτο εκτήσω τή ταπεινώσει τά υψηλά, τή πτωχεία τά πλούσια, Πάτερ Ιεράρχα Νικόλαε, πρέσβευε Χριστώ τώ Θεώ, σωθήναι τάς ψυχάς ημών.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 4th Mode

With our hearts instead of arms * today, believers, * with most pure and righteous thoughts * let us receive in our embrace * the Lord and Master who comes to us, * and let us offer our fore-festal hymns of praise.
῾Ως ἀγκάλας σήμερον, πιστοὶ καρδίας, ἐφαπλοῦντες δέξασθε, καθαρωτάτῳ λογισμῷ, ἐπιδημοῦντα τὸν Κύριον, προεορτίους αἰνέσεις προσᾴδοντες ...show less

If there is a moral quality almost completely disregarded and even denied today, it is indeed humility. The culture in which we live constantly instills in us the sense of pride, of self-glorification, and of self-righteousness ... Even our churches - are they not imbued with that same spirit of the Pharisee? Do we not want our every contribution, every 'good deed,' all the we do 'for the Church' to be acknowledged, praised, publicized? ... How does one become humble? The answer, for a Christian, is simple: by contemplating Christ..."

Fr. Alexander Schmemann
Great Lent, pp. 19-20., 20th Century

It is possible for those who have come back again after repentance to shine with much lustre, and oftentimes more than those... show moreIf there is a moral quality almost completely disregarded and even denied today, it is indeed humility. The culture in which we live constantly instills in us the sense of pride, of self-glorification, and of self-righteousness ... Even our churches - are they not imbued with that same spirit of the Pharisee? Do we not want our every contribution, every 'good deed,' all the we do 'for the Church' to be acknowledged, praised, publicized? ... How does one become humble? The answer, for a Christian, is simple: by contemplating Christ..."

Fr. Alexander Schmemann
Great Lent, pp. 19-20., 20th Century

It is possible for those who have come back again after repentance to shine with much lustre, and oftentimes more than those who have never fallen at all, I have demonstrated from the divine writings. Thus at least both the publicans and the harlots inherit the kingdom of Heaven, thus many of the last are placed before the first.

St. John Chrysostom
AN EXHORTATION TO THEODORE AFTER HIS FALL, 4th Century ...show less

January 25

Gregory the Theologian, Archbishop of Constantinople

This great Father and Teacher of the Church was born in 329 in Arianzus, a village of the second district of Cappadocia, not far from Nazianzus. His father, who later became Bishop of Nazianzus, was named Gregory (commemorated Jan. 1), and his mother was named Nonna (Aug. 5); both are among the Saints, and so are his brother Caesarius (Mar. 9) and his sister Gorgona (Feb. 23).

At first he studied in Caesarea of Palestine, then in Alexandria, and finally in Athens. As he was sailing from Alexandria to Athens, a violent sea storm put in peril not only his life but also his salvation, since he had not yet been baptized. With tears and fervour he besought God to spare him,... show moreJanuary 25

Gregory the Theologian, Archbishop of Constantinople

This great Father and Teacher of the Church was born in 329 in Arianzus, a village of the second district of Cappadocia, not far from Nazianzus. His father, who later became Bishop of Nazianzus, was named Gregory (commemorated Jan. 1), and his mother was named Nonna (Aug. 5); both are among the Saints, and so are his brother Caesarius (Mar. 9) and his sister Gorgona (Feb. 23).

At first he studied in Caesarea of Palestine, then in Alexandria, and finally in Athens. As he was sailing from Alexandria to Athens, a violent sea storm put in peril not only his life but also his salvation, since he had not yet been baptized. With tears and fervour he besought God to spare him, vowing to dedicate his whole self to Him, and the tempest gave way to calm. At Athens Saint Gregory was later joined by Saint Basil the Great, whom he already knew; but now their acquaintanceship grew into a lifelong brotherly love. Another fellow student of theirs in Athens was the young Prince Julian, who later as Emperor was called the Apostate because he denied Christ and did all in his power to restore paganism. Even in Athens, before Julian had thrown off the mask of piety; Saint Gregory saw what an unsettled mind he had, and said, "What an evil the Roman State is nourishing" (Orat. V, 24, PG 35:693).

After their studies at Athens, Gregory became Basil's fellow ascetic, living the monastic life together with him for a time in the hermitages of Pontus. His father ordained him presbyter of the Church of Nazianzus, and Saint Basil consecrated him Bishop of Sasima (or Zansima), which was in the archdiocese of Caesarea. This consecration was a source of great sorrow to Gregory, and a cause of misunderstanding between him and Basil; but his love for Basil remained unchanged, as can be plainly seen from his Funeral Oration on Saint Basil (Orat. XLIII).

About the Year 379, Saint Gregory came to the assistance of the Church of Constantinople, which had already been troubled for forty years by the Arians; by his supremely wise words and many labours he freed it from the corruption of heresy, and was elected Archbishop of that city by the Second Ecumenical Council, which assembled there in 381, and condemned Macedonius, Archbishop of Constantinople, the enemy of the Holy Spirit. When Saint Gregory came to Constantinople, the Arians had taken all the churches and he was forced to serve in a house chapel dedicated to Saint Anastasia the Martyr. From there he began to preach his famous five sermons on the Trinity, called the Triadica. When he left Constantinople two years later, the Arians did not have one church left to them in the city. Saint Meletius of Antioch (see Feb. 12), who was presiding over the Second Ecumenical Council, died in the course of it, and Saint Gregory was chosen in his stead; there he distinguished himself in his expositions of dogmatic theology.

Having governed the Church until 382, he delivered his farewell speech - the Syntacterion, in which he demonstrated the Divinity of the Son - before 150 bishops and the Emperor Theodosius the Great; in this speech he requested, and received from all, permission to retire from the see of Constantinople. He returned to Nazianzus, where he lived to the end of his life, and reposed in the Lord in 391, having lived some sixty-two years.

His extant writings, both prose and poems in every type of metre, demonstrate his lofty eloquence and his wondrous breadth of learning. In the beauty of his writings, he is considered to have surpassed the Greek writers of antiquity, and because of his God-inspired theological thought, he received the surname "Theologian." Although he is sometimes called Gregory of Nazianzus, this title belongs properly to his father; he himself is known by the Church only as Gregory the Theologian. He is especially called "Trinitarian Theologian," since in virtually every homily he refers to the Trinity and the one essence and nature of the Godhead. Hence, Alexius Anthorus dedicated the following verses to him:

Like an unwandering star beaming with splendour, Thou bringest us by mystic teachings, O Father, To the Trinity's sunlike illumination, O mouth breathing with fire, Gregory most mighty. ...show less

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

Please join in prayer for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord:

DEMETRIOS THEOHARIS (40 DAYS), brother of Bessie Kouretas, Katerina Vlahopouliotis, and Louisa Chatzis

EFTHIMIOS AND SOTERIA THEOHARIS (ANNUAL), parents of Bessie Kouretas, Katerina Vlahopouliotis, and Louisa Chatzis

JOHN KOURETAS (6 MO), husband of Sophia, father of Chris and Tom, father-in-law to Carey and Cheryl, grandchildren

STELLA (STAVROULA) DODGE (3 YR), mother of Steven (Merribeth) Dodge, Thomas (Rebecca) Dodge, and Kristi Blowers, grandmother of Christopher, Beth, Laurie, Tommy, and Amy.

IOANNIS CHARITOU (10 YRS), husband of Maria Charitou, father of Petros (Veronica) Charitou, Katy Demetriou, Harris (Saiyanna)... show moreSUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

Please join in prayer for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord:

DEMETRIOS THEOHARIS (40 DAYS), brother of Bessie Kouretas, Katerina Vlahopouliotis, and Louisa Chatzis

EFTHIMIOS AND SOTERIA THEOHARIS (ANNUAL), parents of Bessie Kouretas, Katerina Vlahopouliotis, and Louisa Chatzis

JOHN KOURETAS (6 MO), husband of Sophia, father of Chris and Tom, father-in-law to Carey and Cheryl, grandchildren

STELLA (STAVROULA) DODGE (3 YR), mother of Steven (Merribeth) Dodge, Thomas (Rebecca) Dodge, and Kristi Blowers, grandmother of Christopher, Beth, Laurie, Tommy, and Amy.

IOANNIS CHARITOU (10 YRS), husband of Maria Charitou, father of Petros (Veronica) Charitou, Katy Demetriou, Harris (Saiyanna) Charitou, and Anthoulla (Sotiri) Yiannakou, grandchildren, great grandchildren

PETROS AND ANTHOUSA (ANNUAL), parents of Maria Charitou

HARITON AND AIKATERINI (ANNUAL), parents-in-law of Maria Charitou

AIKATERINI (ANNUAL), aunt of Maria Charitou

ATHANASIOS (THOMAS) BUNDROS, (11 YRS), husband of Tina, father of Pam, Zoe, Daphne, Yani, Andoni, and Angeliki, grandchildren

LAOURA KOLLIOPOULOS (21 YRS), grandmother of Nicholaos (Amy) Kolliopoulos

May their memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Maria Garrett, Stephanie Mansfield, Meredith Panayotopoulos, Dianne Saunders, Jaclyn Sepetis, and Tina Sousa in the Small Hall with support from families with memorial services. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts for February 1, 2026: Georgia Golfinopoulos, Presvytera Vasso Kumarelas, Presvytera Stephanie Pantic, and Eleni Veloudis

**Please note: Printed Sunday scripture readings are available in the Narthex** ...show less

MISSIONS ANNUAL VASILOPITA FELLOWSHIP - SATURDAY, JAN 24TH
Saturday, January 24th | 2:00 PM | Small Hall

Join us for a joyful afternoon of fellowship, Vasilopita, and mission! We are honored to welcome His Eminence, Metropolitan Tarasios, who will share reflections from his many years of ministry in Argentina and South America, along with Anastasia Pamela Barksdale of OCMC, offering updates on missionary work around the world.

Refreshments provided.
Free-will offering to benefit OCMC’s SAMP (Support a Mission Priest) program.

Everyone is welcome—bring a friend!

Please invite your friends! For questions, please contact Maria Aji at: (408)425-6967 | mastrakianaki@gmail.com.

FDF PREVIEW! SATURDAY, JANUARY 24TH
The Saint Nicholas... show moreMISSIONS ANNUAL VASILOPITA FELLOWSHIP - SATURDAY, JAN 24TH
Saturday, January 24th | 2:00 PM | Small Hall

Join us for a joyful afternoon of fellowship, Vasilopita, and mission! We are honored to welcome His Eminence, Metropolitan Tarasios, who will share reflections from his many years of ministry in Argentina and South America, along with Anastasia Pamela Barksdale of OCMC, offering updates on missionary work around the world.

Refreshments provided.
Free-will offering to benefit OCMC’s SAMP (Support a Mission Priest) program.

Everyone is welcome—bring a friend!

Please invite your friends! For questions, please contact Maria Aji at: (408)425-6967 | mastrakianaki@gmail.com.

FDF PREVIEW! SATURDAY, JANUARY 24TH
The Saint Nicholas Dance Ministry presents our FDF Preview on Saturday, January 24th at 5:30pm in the Community Center.

Please bring family and friends to enjoy a preview of our dance groups' FDF performances.

Doors open and no-host cocktails begin at 5:30pm. Performances will begin at 6:00pm followed by dinner. Music and DJ dancing to follow!

Tickets: $40 adults; Dancers and children under 12 are free. No host bar.

COLLEGE STUDENT MINISTRY
The College Ministry/OCF event scheduled for Monday evening, January 26th at 7:00pm in the Church Office Conference Room. We look forward to seeing you!
Future dates include: Monday February 9, 2026, Monday March 9, 2026, Monday April 27, 2026, Monday May 18, 2026


PAN CRETAN CRAB FEED
******already more than 90% of the tickets have been sold!******

Join us for the Pan Cretan All-You-Can-Eat Crab Feed on Friday, January 30, 2026 — a night of great food, music, and community fun! Enjoy fresh crab, pasta, salad, and dessert in a lively atmosphere with friends and family. Full-table discounted purchases will be available starting Saturday, November 15th, and single adult tickets go on sale in December. Don’t miss one of the most anticipated events of the year — come hungry and ready for a good time! See the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin.

** Tickets may be purchased at cretancrabfeed.eventbrite.com

HOUSE BLESSINGS
We invite any parishioners who would like to have their house blessed for the Epiphany season to contact the office (408-246-2770) to schedule with one of our priests. Please schedule now until February 2nd.

ST. ANNA PHILOPTOCHOS
Become a Saint Anna Philoptochos Member Today! To sign up on-line or get a membership form mailed to you, go to the following link: https://saintnicholas.org/philoptochos_member

ST. NICHOLAS BIBLE STUDY - THURSDAY MORNINGS
Come and see, hear and taste that the Lord is Good! St. Nicholas Bible Study continues on Thursdays at 10:00am with Fr. James in the Church Office Conference Room. Bring your Bible; coffee and refreshments provided. Theme: Reflecting on the Sunday Gospels.

STEWARDSHIP SUNDAY – FEBRUARY 1ST
We invite all parishioners to attend the Divine Liturgy with their completed stewardship card on Stewardship Sunday scheduled on Sunday, February 1st and to experience the sprirtual blessings that come from being a faithful steward of Saint Nicholas. This year's stewardship theme, Rise Up and Build, calls each of us to take an active role in strengthening our parish community.

If you prefer to make your 2026 Stewardship Commitment online, please use the following link: https://saintnicholas.org/stewardship

FEASTDAY OF THE THREE HIERARCHS
On Sunday, February 1st, during the Divine Liturgy and before Holy Communion, there will be a reading about the Three Hierarchs from the students of the Center of Hellenic Education and Sunday School.

GOYA MEETING
GOYA will meet on Sunday, February 1st from 11:30am to 12:15pm. See you there!

For more information email Eva Vathis at eperakis1@aol.com .

YOUTH BASKETBALL - TEAM PRACTICES BEGIN IN JANUARY
The St Nicholas youth basketball program is starting team practices for the Spring '26 season. Last year we fielded 5 teams: Boys and Girls Elementary, Boys and Girls Middle School, and Boys High School with over 40 participants. Congrats to our Elementary Girls and High School Boys on winning the League Championship!

Boys Elementary (3rd-5th Grade) are practicing weekly Mondays at 5:15-6:30 (note Feb 2nd moved to Thur Feb 5th at same time)

Girls Elementary (3rd-5th Grade) and Middle School (6th-8th Grade) are practicing weekly Mondays at 6:30-7:45 (note Feb 2nd moved to Thur Feb 5th at same time)

Boys Middle School (6th-8th Grade) are practicing weekly on Tuesdays at 6:45

Boys High School (9th-12th Grade) will begin practices in mid-Feburary (after FDF) Those wishing to participate earlier can join the MS boys practices on Tuesdays.

All new players (including siblings of returning players) MUST register here: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/128/responses/new Returning players do NOT need to re-register. New players are welcome.

UNIFORM RETURN: If you still have your uniform from last year, we NEED them returned ASAP. Bring to practice or give them to a Coach or John Cocoles during Sunday Coffee hour. We need to know how many new uniforms we may need to buy and which sizes.

The Orthodox Youth Athletic Association is a recreational league with other Orthodox churches in the Bay Area with games typically on Sunday afternoons starting soon after FDF in February. We look forward to another fun and successful season. To register: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. If you have any questions, please contact John Cocoles at basketball@saintnicholas.org or jcocoles5@gmail.com


CHRISTIANS IN PALESTINE EVENT AT ST. BASIL - CANCELLED
The Christians in Palestine event at St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church with Mother Agapia Stephanopoulos, orginally scheduled for Tuesday, January 27th has been cancelled.

The opportunity to hear her still stands at two other locations located in Palo Alto and Morgan Hill in February. ...show less

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE BY LIVESTREAM ON YOUTUBE UNDER THE NAME: SAINT NICHOLAS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH SAN JOSE.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1x-nHP063YTTMrevkzL21w/

Sunday, January 25 - 15th Sunday of Luke
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Friday, January 30 - Synaxis of the Three Hierarchs
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, February 1 - Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee - Triodion Begins
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES
SUNDAY. JANUARY 25: Family Divine Liturgy

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1: Sunday School classes

METROPOLIS SUMMER CAMP STAFF - APPLY NOW!
Applications are now open for the 2026 Metropolis Summer Camp at St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center. This is an incredible opportunity for faithful and motivated young adults (age 19 and over) to make a meaningful impact on the lives of campers while gaining valuable leadership and teamwork experience. We’re hiring for a variety of roles, including: Leadership Team Members, Cabin Counselors, Program Staff, Photographers, Lifeguards, and Medical Staff. Apply online at www.gosfyouth.org.

ONE-CLICK GIVING!
Our church website has upgraded to Pushpay for all online donations, tithes, and a number of other transactions - making giving simpler, faster, and more secure.

Key Benefits for you:

One-Click Giving: Set up recurring tithes in seconds or make one-time gifts with ease.
Safe & Secure: Bank-level encryption protects your information.
Text-to-Give: Simply text “GIVE” to (833) 921-7035 to donate instantly.
Track Your Giving: View your donation history and print tax statements anytime.
Give from Anywhere: Use your phone, tablet, or computer.
Visit https://saintnicholas.org/donation to donate and set up your account.

Your generosity fuels our ministries, outreach, and mission to love God and serve others.

STEWARDSHIP
To... show moreONE-CLICK GIVING!
Our church website has upgraded to Pushpay for all online donations, tithes, and a number of other transactions - making giving simpler, faster, and more secure.

Key Benefits for you:

One-Click Giving: Set up recurring tithes in seconds or make one-time gifts with ease.
Safe & Secure: Bank-level encryption protects your information.
Text-to-Give: Simply text “GIVE” to (833) 921-7035 to donate instantly.
Track Your Giving: View your donation history and print tax statements anytime.
Give from Anywhere: Use your phone, tablet, or computer.
Visit https://saintnicholas.org/donation to donate and set up your account.

Your generosity fuels our ministries, outreach, and mission to love God and serve others.

STEWARDSHIP
To make a committment electronically, please visit our online stewardship: https://saintnicholas.org/stewardship

Donation link: https://saintnicholas.org/donation ...show less

Matins Gospel Reading
Eleventh Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 21:14-25

At that time, Jesus revealed himself to the disciples after he was raised from the dead. And he said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs." A second time he said to him, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" And he said to him, "Lord, you know everything;... show moreMatins Gospel Reading
Eleventh Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 21:14-25

At that time, Jesus revealed himself to the disciples after he was raised from the dead. And he said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs." A second time he said to him, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" And he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself and walked where you would; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish to go." (This he said to show by what death he was to glorify God.) And after this he said to him, "Follow me." Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?" When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, "Lord, what about this man?" Jesus said to him, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!" The saying spread abroad among the brethren that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?" This is the disciple who is bearing witness to these things, and who has written these things; and we know that his testimony is true. But there are also many other things which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen.

Eleventh Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 21:14-25

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, ἐφανέρωσεν ἑαυτὸν ὁ Ἰησοῦς τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ, ἐγερθεὶς ἐκ νεκρῶν, καὶ λέγει τῷ Σίμωνι Πέτρῳ· Σίμων Ἰωνᾶ, ἀγαπᾶς με πλέον τούτων; Λέγει αὐτῷ· Ναὶ Κύριε, σὺ οἶδας ὅτι φιλῶ σε. Λέγει αὐτῷ· Βόσκε τὰ ἀρνία μου. Λέγει αὐτῷ πάλιν δεύτερον· Σίμων Ἰωνᾶ ἀγαπᾶς με; Λέγει αὐτῷ· Ναί, Κύριε, σὺ οἶδας ὅτι φιλῶ σε. Λέγει αὐτῷ· Ποίμαινε τὰ πρόβατά μου. Λέγει αὐτῷ τὸ τρίτον· Σίμων Ἰωνᾶ, φιλεῖς με; ἐλυπήθη ὁ Πέτρος, ὅτι εἶπεν αὐτῷ τὸ τρίτον, φιλεῖς με; Καὶ εἶπεν αὐτῷ· Κύριε, σὺ πάντα οἶδας, σὺ γινώσκεις ὅτι φιλῶ σε. Λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς. Βόσκε τὰ πρόβατά μου. Ἀμὴν ἀμὴν λέγω σοι, ὅτε ἦς νεώτερος, ἐζώννυες σεαυτόν, καὶ περιεπάτεις ὅπου ἤθελες, ὅταν δὲ γηράσῃς, ἐκτενεῖς τὰς χεῖράς σου, καὶ ἄλλος σε ζώσει, καὶ οἴσει ὅπου οὐ θέλεις. Τοῦτο δὲ εἶπε, σημαίνων ποίῳ θανάτῳ δοξάσει τὸν Θεόν. Καὶ τοῦτο εἰπών, λέγει αὐτῷ· Ἀκολούθει μοι. Ἐπιστραφεὶς δὲ ὁ Πέτρος βλέπει τὸν μαθητὴν ὃν ἠγάπα ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ἀκολουθοῦντα, ὃς καὶ ἀνέπεσεν ἐν τῷ δείπνῳ ἐπὶ τὸ στῆθος αὐτοῦ καὶ εἶπε· Κύριε, τίς ἐστιν ὁ παραδιδούς σε; τοῦτον ἰδὼν ὁ Πέτρος λέγει τῷ Ἰησοῦ· Κύριε, οὗτος δὲ τί; λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Ἐὰν αὐτὸν θέλω μένειν ἕως ἔρχομαι, τί πρὸς σέ; σύ μοι ἀκολούθει μοι. Ἐξῆλθεν οὖν ὁ λόγος οὗτος εἰς τοὺς ἀδελφούς. Ὃτι ὁ μαθητὴς ἐκεῖνος οὐκ ἀποθνῄσκει, καὶ οὐκ εἶπεν αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ὅτι οὐκ ἀποθνήσκει· ἀλλ' ἐὰν αὐτὸν θέλω μένειν ἕως ἔρχομαι, τί πρὸς σὲ; Οὗτός ἐστιν ὁ μαθητὴς ὁ μαρτυρῶν περὶ τούτων, καὶ γράψας ταῦτα, καὶ οἴδαμεν ὅτι ἀληθής ἐστιν ἡ μαρτυρία αὐτοῦ. Ἔστι δὲ καὶ ἄλλα πολλὰ ὅσα ἐποίησεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς, ἅτινα ἐὰν γράφηται καθ' ἕν, οὐδὲ αὐτὸν οἶμαι τὸν κόσμον χωρῆσαι τὰ γραφόμενα βιβλία. Ἀμήν.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. 1st Mode. Psalm 48.3,1.
My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart shall bring forth understanding.
Verse: Hear this all you nations.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 7:26-28; 8:1-2.

Brethren, it was fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, blameless, unstained, separated from sinners, exalted above the heavens. He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people; he did this once for all when he offered up himself. Indeed, the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect for ever. Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, a minister in the sanctuary and the true tent which is set up not by man but by the Lord.

Προκείμενον. 1st Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 48.3,1.
Τὸ στόμα μου λαλήσει σοφίαν καὶ ἡ μελέτη τῆς καρδίας μου σύνεσιν.
Στίχ. Ἀκούσατε ταῦτα, πάντα τὰ ἔθνη.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Ἑβραίους 7:26-28, 8:1-2.

Ἀδελφοί, τοιοῦτος γὰρ ἡμῖν ἔπρεπεν ἀρχιερεύς, ὅσιος, ἄκακος, ἀμίαντος, κεχωρισμένος ἀπὸ τῶν ἁμαρτωλῶν, καὶ ὑψηλότερος τῶν οὐρανῶν γενόμενος· ὃς οὐκ ἔχει καθʼ ἡμέραν ἀνάγκην, ὥσπερ οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς, πρότερον ὑπὲρ τῶν ἰδίων ἁμαρτιῶν θυσίας ἀναφέρειν, ἔπειτα τῶν τοῦ λαοῦ· τοῦτο γὰρ ἐποίησεν ἐφάπαξ, ἑαυτὸν ἀνενέγκας. Ὁ νόμος γὰρ ἀνθρώπους καθίστησιν ἀρχιερεῖς, ἔχοντας ἀσθένειαν· ὁ λόγος δὲ τῆς ὁρκωμοσίας τῆς μετὰ τὸν νόμον, υἱὸν εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα τετελειωμένον. Κεφάλαιον δὲ ἐπὶ τοῖς λεγομένοις· τοιοῦτον ἔχομεν ἀρχιερέα, ὃς ἐκάθισεν ἐν δεξιᾷ τοῦ θρόνου τῆς μεγαλωσύνης ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς, τῶν ἁγίων λειτουργός, καὶ τῆς σκηνῆς τῆς ἀληθινῆς, ἣν ἔπηξεν ὁ κύριος, καὶ οὐκ ἄνθρωπος·

Gospel Reading
15th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 19:1-10

At that time, Jesus was passing through Jericho. And there was a man named Zacchaios; he was a chief collector, and rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaios, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today." So he made haste and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it they all murmured, "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." And Zacchaios stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it fourfold." And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost."

15th Sunday of Luke
Κατὰ Λουκᾶν 19:1-10

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, διήρχετο τὴν ῾Ιεριχώ· καὶ ἰδοὺ ἀνὴρ ὀνόματι καλούμενος Ζακχαῖος, καὶ αὐτὸς ἦν ἀρχιτελώνης, καὶ οὗτος ἦν πλούσιος, καὶ ἐζήτει ἰδεῖν τὸν ᾿Ιησοῦν τίς ἐστι, καὶ οὐκ ἠδύνατο ἀπὸ τοῦ ὄχλου, ὅτι τῇ ἡλικίᾳ μικρὸς ἦν. καὶ προδραμὼν ἔμπροσθεν ἀνέβη ἐπὶ συκομορέαν, ἵνα ἴδῃ αὐτόν, ὅτι ἐκείνης ἤμελλε διέρχεσθαι. καὶ ὡς ἦλθεν ἐπὶ τὸν τόπον, ἀναβλέψας ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς εἶδεν αὐτὸν καὶ εἶπε πρὸς αὐτόν· Ζακχαῖε, σπεύσας κατάβηθι· σήμερον γὰρ ἐν τῷ οἴκῳ σου δεῖ με μεῖναι. καὶ σπεύσας κατέβη, καὶ ὑπεδέξατο αὐτὸν χαίρων. καὶ ἰδόντες πάντες διεγόγγυζον λέγοντες ὅτι παρὰ ἁμαρτωλῷ ἀνδρὶ εἰσῆλθε καταλῦσαι. σταθεὶς δὲ Ζακχαῖος εἶπε πρὸς τὸν Κύριον· ἰδοὺ τὰ ἡμίση τῶν ὑπαρχόντων μου, Κύριε, δίδωμι τοῖς πτωχοῖς, καὶ εἴ τινός τι ἐσυκοφάντησα, ἀποδίδωμι τετραπλοῦν. εἶπε δὲ πρὸς αὐτὸν ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς ὅτι σήμερον σωτηρία τῷ οἴκῳ τούτῳ ἐγένετο, καθότι καὶ αὐτὸς υἱὸς ᾿Αβραάμ ἐστιν. ἦλθε γὰρ ὁ υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου ζητῆσαι καὶ σῶσαι τὸ ἀπολωλός. ...show less

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 4th Mode
You descended from on high, O compassionate One, and condescended to be buried for three days, so that from the passions You might set us free. Our life and resurrection, O Lord, glory be to You.

Ἐξ ὕψους κατῆλθες ὁ εὔσπλαγχνος, ταφὴν καταδέξω τριήμερον, ἵνα ἡμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃς τῶν παθῶν. Ἡ ζωὴ καὶ ἡ Ἀνάστασις ἡμῶν, Κύριε δόξα σοι.

Apolytikion for Gregory the Theologian in the 1st Mode
The shepherd's pipe of thy theology conquered the trumpets of the philosophers; for since thou didst search out the depths of the Spirit, beauty of speech was added to thee.... show moreResurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 4th Mode
You descended from on high, O compassionate One, and condescended to be buried for three days, so that from the passions You might set us free. Our life and resurrection, O Lord, glory be to You.

Ἐξ ὕψους κατῆλθες ὁ εὔσπλαγχνος, ταφὴν καταδέξω τριήμερον, ἵνα ἡμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃς τῶν παθῶν. Ἡ ζωὴ καὶ ἡ Ἀνάστασις ἡμῶν, Κύριε δόξα σοι.

Apolytikion for Gregory the Theologian in the 1st Mode
The shepherd's pipe of thy theology conquered the trumpets of the philosophers; for since thou didst search out the depths of the Spirit, beauty of speech was added to thee. But intercede with Christ God, O Father Gregory, that our souls be saved.

Ὁ ποιμενικὸς αὐλὸς τῆς θεολογίας σου, τὰς τῶν ῥητόρων ἐνίκησε σάλπιγγας, ὡς γὰρ τὰ βάθη τοῦ Πνεύματος ἐκζητήσαντι, καὶ τὰ κάλλη τοῦ φθέγματος προσετέθη σοί. Ἀλλὰ πρέσβευε Χριστῷ τῶ Θεῷ, Πάτερ Γρηγόριε, σωθῆναι τὰς ψυχὰς ἡμῶν.

Apolytikion of Saint Nicholas in the 1st Mode
An example of the faith and a life of humility, as a teacher of self-control you did inspire and lead your flock, and through the truthfulness of your deeds, were exalted by greatness through your humility, uplifting all, and by poverty gaining strength. Father and hierarch Saint Nicholas, intercede with Christ our God, that our souls may be saved.

Κανόνα πίστεως καί εικόνα πραότητος, εγκρατείας Διδάσκαλον, ανέδειξέ σε τή ποίμνη σου, η τών πραγμάτων αλήθεια, διά τούτο εκτήσω τή ταπεινώσει τά υψηλά, τή πτωχεία τά πλούσια, Πάτερ Ιεράρχα Νικόλαε, πρέσβευε Χριστώ τώ Θεώ, σωθήναι τάς ψυχάς ημών.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 1st Mode
Your birth sanctified a Virgin's womb and properly blessed the hands of Symeon. Having now come and saved us O Christ our God, give peace to Your commonwealth in troubled times and strengthen those in authority, whom You love, as only the loving One.
Ὁ μήτραν παρθενικὴν ἁγιάσας τῶ τόκω σου, καὶ χείρας τοῦ Συμεὼν εὐλογήσας ὡς ἔπρεπε, προφθάσας καὶ νὺν ἔσωσας ἡμᾶς Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός. Ἀλλ' εἰρήνευσον ἐν πολέμοις τὸ πολίτευμα, καὶ κραταίωσον Βασιλεῖς οὓς ἠγάπησας, ὁ μόνος φιλάνθρωπος. ...show less

YAL SJ is here! 👋 Join our WhatsApp group to get connected with other young adults at St. Nicholas and stay tuned for the latest.

https://bit.ly/3NU3Gow

January 18

Athanasios and Cyril, Patriarchs of Alexandria

In the half-century after the First Ecumenical Council held in Nicea in 325, if there was one man whom the Arians feared and hated more intensely than any other, as being able to lay bare the whole error of their teaching, and to marshal, even from exile or hiding, the beleaguered forces of the Orthodox, it was Saint Athanasios the Great. This blazing lamp of Orthodoxy, which imperial power and heretics' plots could not quench when he shone upon the lampstand, nor find when he was hid by the people and monks of Egypt, was born in Alexandria about the year 296.

He received an excellent training in Greek letters and especially in the sacred Scriptures, of which he shows an... show moreJanuary 18

Athanasios and Cyril, Patriarchs of Alexandria

In the half-century after the First Ecumenical Council held in Nicea in 325, if there was one man whom the Arians feared and hated more intensely than any other, as being able to lay bare the whole error of their teaching, and to marshal, even from exile or hiding, the beleaguered forces of the Orthodox, it was Saint Athanasios the Great. This blazing lamp of Orthodoxy, which imperial power and heretics' plots could not quench when he shone upon the lampstand, nor find when he was hid by the people and monks of Egypt, was born in Alexandria about the year 296.

He received an excellent training in Greek letters and especially in the sacred Scriptures, of which he shows an exceptional knowledge in his writings. Even as a young man he had a remarkable depth of theological understanding; he was only about twenty years old when he wrote his treatise "On the Incarnation." Saint Alexander, the Archbishop of Alexandria, brought him up in piety, ordained him his deacon, and after deposing Arius for his blasphemy against the Divinity of the Son of God, took Athanasios to the First Council in Nicea in 325. Saint Athanasios was to spend the remainder of his life laboring in defense of this Holy Council. In 326, before his death, Alexander appointed Athanasios his successor.

In 325, Arius had been condemned by the Council of Nicea; yet through his hypocritical confession of Orthodox belief, Saint Constantine the Great was persuaded by Arius's supporters that he should be received back into the communion of the Church. But Athanasios, knowing well the perverseness of his mind, and the disease of heresy lurking in his heart, refused communion with Arius. The heresiarch's followers then began framing false charges against Athanasios. Finally Saint Constantine the Great, misled by grave charges of the Saint's misconduct (which were completely false), had him exiled to Tiberius (Treves) in Gaul in 336. When Saint Constantine was succeeded by his three sons Constantine II, Constans, and Constantius, in 337, Saint Athanasios returned to Alexandria in triumph. But his enemies found an ally in Constantius, Emperor of the East, and he spent a second exile in Rome. It was ended when Constans prevailed with threats upon his brother Constantius to restore Athanasios (see also Nov. 6). For ten years Saint Athanasios strengthened Orthodoxy throughout Egypt, visiting the whole country and encouraging all: clergy, monastics, and lay folk, being loved by all as a father. After Constans's death in 350, Constantius became sole Emperor, and Athanasios was again in danger. On the evening of February 8, 356, General Syrianus with more than five thousand soldiers surrounded the church in which Athanasios was serving, and broke open the doors. Athanasios's clergy begged him to leave, but the good shepherd commanded that all the flock should withdraw first; and only when he was assured of their safety, he also, protected by divine grace, passed through the midst of the soldiers and disappeared into the deserts of Egypt, where for some six years he eluded the soldiers and spies sent after him.

When Julian the Apostate succeeded Constantius in 361, Athanasios returned again, but only for a few months. Because Athanasios had converted many pagans, and the priests of the idols in Egypt wrote to Julian that if Athanasios remained, idolatry would perish in Egypt, the heathen Emperor ordered not Athanasios's exile, but his death. Athanasios took a ship up the Nile. When he learned that his imperial pursuers were following him, he had his men turn back, and as his boat passed that of his pursuers, they asked him if he had seen Athanasios. "He is not far," he answered. After returning to Alexandria for a while, he fled again to the Thebaid until Julian's death in 363. Saint Athanasios suffered his fifth and last exile under Valens in 365, which only lasted four months because Valens, fearing a sedition among the Egyptians for their beloved Archbishop, revoked his edict in February, 366.

The great Athanasios passed the remaining seven years of his life in peace. Of his fifty-seven years as Patriarch, he had spent some seventeen in exiles. Shining from the height of his throne like a radiant evening star, and enlightening the Orthodox with the brilliance of his words for yet a little while, this much-suffering champion inclined toward the sunset of his life, and in the year 373 took his rest from his lengthy sufferings, but not before another luminary of the truth -- Basil the Great -- had risen in the East, being consecrated Archbishop of Caesarea in 370. Besides all of his other achievements, Saint Athanasios wrote the life of Saint Anthony the Great, with whom he spent time in his youth; ordained Saint Frumentius first Bishop of Ethiopia; and in his Paschal Encyclical for the year 367 set forth the books of the Old and New Testaments accepted by the Church as canonical. Saint Gregory the Theologian, in his "Oration On the Great Athanasios", said that he was "Angelic in appearance, more angelic in mind; ... rebuking with the tenderness of a father, praising with the dignity of a ruler ... Everything was harmonious, as an air upon a single lyre, and in the same key; his life, his teaching, his struggles, his dangers, his return, and his conduct after his return ... he treated so mildly and gently those who had injured him, that even they themselves, if I may say so, did not find his restoration distasteful."

Saint Cyril was also from Alexandria, born about the year 376. He was the nephew of Theophilus, Patriarch of Alexandria, who also instructed the Saint in his youth. Having first spent much time with the monks in Nitria, he later became the successor to his uncle's throne in 412. In 429, when Cyril heard tidings of the teachings of the new Patriarch of Constantinople, Nestorius, he began attempting through private letters to bring Nestorius to renounce his heretical teaching about the Incarnation. When the heresiarch did not repent, Saint Cyril, together with Pope Celestine of Rome, led the Orthodox opposition to his error. Saint Cyril presided over the Third Ecumenical Council of the 200 Holy Fathers in the year 431, who gathered in Ephesus under Saint Theodosius the Younger. At this Council, by his most wise words, he put to shame and convicted the impious doctrine of Nestorius, who, although he was in town, refused to appear before Cyril. Saint Cyril, besides overthrowing the error of Nestorius, has left to the Church full commentaries on the Gospels of Luke and John. Having shepherded the Church of Christ for thirty-two years, he reposed in 444. ...show less

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

Please join in prayer for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord:

DR. SAMUEL KAIS (3 YRS), husband of Maria, father of Deborah (Dan) Settelmayer, Thomas Kais, Samuel (Betsy) Kais, and Connie (Mark) Ajlouni, grandchildren Alexandra, Marina, Nicholas, Tom, Cassidy, Andrea, Samuel, Helena and Grant

May his memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by the Basketball Ministry in the Small Hall with support from families with memorial services. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts for January 25, 2026: Maria Garrett, Stephanie Mansfield, Meredith Panayotopoulos, Dianne Saunders, and Tina Sousa

**Please note:... show moreSUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

Please join in prayer for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord:

DR. SAMUEL KAIS (3 YRS), husband of Maria, father of Deborah (Dan) Settelmayer, Thomas Kais, Samuel (Betsy) Kais, and Connie (Mark) Ajlouni, grandchildren Alexandra, Marina, Nicholas, Tom, Cassidy, Andrea, Samuel, Helena and Grant

May his memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by the Basketball Ministry in the Small Hall with support from families with memorial services. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts for January 25, 2026: Maria Garrett, Stephanie Mansfield, Meredith Panayotopoulos, Dianne Saunders, and Tina Sousa

**Please note: Printed Sunday scripture readings are available in the Narthex** ...show less

HOUSE BLESSINGS
We invite any parishioners who would like to have their house blessed for the Epiphany season to contact the office (408-246-2770) to schedule with one of our priests. Please schedule now until February 2nd.

PARISH COUNCIL OFFICERS
The 2026 Parish Council would like to announce our 2026 Parish Council Officers: Nektarios Matheou, President; Dimitris Lymberopoulos, Vice President; Nicholas Taptelis, Treasurer; and Vicki Ryan, Secretary. Congratulations to all!

PARISH COUNCIL
Congratulations to Eire Gemellos and Terry Pries who have joined the 2026 Parish Council.

ST. NICHOLAS FAMILY EVENT - SANTA CLARA MEN'S BASKETBALL VS ST. MARY'S - SATURDAY, JAN 17TH
The GOYA, JOY, and Basketball ministries are joining... show moreHOUSE BLESSINGS
We invite any parishioners who would like to have their house blessed for the Epiphany season to contact the office (408-246-2770) to schedule with one of our priests. Please schedule now until February 2nd.

PARISH COUNCIL OFFICERS
The 2026 Parish Council would like to announce our 2026 Parish Council Officers: Nektarios Matheou, President; Dimitris Lymberopoulos, Vice President; Nicholas Taptelis, Treasurer; and Vicki Ryan, Secretary. Congratulations to all!

PARISH COUNCIL
Congratulations to Eire Gemellos and Terry Pries who have joined the 2026 Parish Council.

ST. NICHOLAS FAMILY EVENT - SANTA CLARA MEN'S BASKETBALL VS ST. MARY'S - SATURDAY, JAN 17TH
The GOYA, JOY, and Basketball ministries are joining forces to host an afternoon to watch Santa Clara Men's basketball take on their East Bay rivals from St. Mary's. We encourage you to join us at 2pm for pizza, salad, and refreshments and carpool to the nearby game. The game tips off at 4pm at the Santa Clara University Leavey Center. Kids will have an opportunity for on-court activities during and after the game. We hope to replicate a great time that we had last year. The cost of the game ticket is $30/person and lunch is hosted by the ministries. Contact Sofia Kotsiri (sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com), John Cocoles (jcocoles5@gmail.com) and Helene Panos (simvoulakish@gmail.com) for more information and to reserve a ticket.

MISSIONS ANNUAL VASILOPITA FELLOWSHIP - SATURDAY, JAN 24TH
Saturday, January 24th | 2:00 PM | Small Hall

Join us for a joyful afternoon of fellowship, Vasilopita, and mission! We are honored to welcome His Eminence, Metropolitan Tarasios, who will share reflections from his many years of ministry in Argentina and South America, along with Anastasia Pamela Barksdale of OCMC, offering updates on missionary work around the world.

Refreshments provided.
Free-will offering to benefit OCMC’s SAMP (Support a Mission Priest) program.

Everyone is welcome—bring a friend!

Please invite your friends! For questions, please contact Maria Aji at: (408)425-6967 | mastrakianaki@gmail.com.

FDF PREVIEW! SATURDAY, JANUARY 24TH
The Saint Nicholas Dance Ministry presents our FDF Preview on Saturday, January 24th at 5:30pm in the Community Center.

Please bring family and friends to enjoy a preview of our dance groups' FDF performances.

Doors open and no-host cocktails begin at 5:30pm. Performances will begin at 6:00pm followed by dinner. Music and DJ dancing to follow!

Tickets: $40 adults; Dancers and children under 12 are free. No host bar.

ST. ANNA PHILOPTOCHOS
Become a Saint Anna Philoptochos Member Today! To sign up on-line or get a membership form mailed to you, go to the following link: https://saintnicholas.org/philoptochos_member

ST. NICHOLAS BIBLE STUDY - THURSDAY MORNINGS
Come and see, hear and taste that the Lord is Good! St. Nicholas Bible Study continues on Thursdays at 10:00am with Fr. James in the Church Office Conference Room. Bring your Bible; coffee and refreshments provided. Theme: Reflecting on the Sunday Gospels.

YOUTH BASKETBALL - TEAM PRACTICES BEGIN IN JANUARY
The St Nicholas youth basketball program is starting team practices for the Spring '26 season. Last year we fielded 5 teams: Boys and Girls Elementary, Boys and Girls Middle School, and Boys High School with over 40 participants. Congrats to our Elementary Girls and High School Boys on winning the League Championship!

Boys Elementary (3rd-5th Grade) are practicing weekly Mondays at 5:15-6:30 (note Feb 2nd moved to Thur Feb 5th at same time)

Girls Elementary (3rd-5th Grade) and Middle School (6th-8th Grade) are practicing weekly Mondays at 6:30-7:45 (note Feb 2nd moved to Thur Feb 5th at same time)

Boys Middle School (6th-8th Grade) are practicing weekly on Tuesdays at 6:45

Boys High School (9th-12th Grade) will begin practices in mid-Feburary (after FDF) Those wishing to participate earlier can join the MS boys practices on Tuesdays.

All new players (including siblings of returning players) MUST register here: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/128/responses/new Returning players do NOT need to re-register. New players are welcome.

UNIFORM RETURN: If you still have your uniform from last year, we NEED them returned ASAP. Bring to practice or give them to a Coach or John Cocoles during Sunday Coffee hour. We need to know how many new uniforms we may need to buy and which sizes.

The Orthodox Youth Athletic Association is a recreational league with other Orthodox churches in the Bay Area with games typically on Sunday afternoons starting soon after FDF in February. We look forward to another fun and successful season. To register: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. If you have any questions, please contact John Cocoles at basketball@saintnicholas.org or jcocoles5@gmail.com ...show less

Please note that the church office will be closed for the Martin Luther King Holdiay on Monday, January 19th.

However, if you have a pastoral emergency and you need to reach a priest, please call 408-246-2781.

SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE BY LIVESTREAM ON YOUTUBE UNDER THE NAME: SAINT NICHOLAS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH SAN JOSE.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1x-nHP063YTTMrevkzL21w/

Saturday, January 17 - St. Anthony the Great
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, January 18 - 12th Sunday of Luke
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, January 25 - 15th Sunday of Luke
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES

SUNDAY, JANUARY 18: Sunday School
SUNDAY. JANUARY 25: CHS DIVINE LITURGY

ONE-CLICK GIVING!
Our church website has upgraded to Pushpay for all online donations, tithes, and a number of other transactions - making giving simpler, faster, and more secure.

Key Benefits for you:

One-Click Giving: Set up recurring tithes in seconds or make one-time gifts with ease.
Safe & Secure: Bank-level encryption protects your information.
Text-to-Give: Simply text “GIVE” to (833) 921-7035 to donate instantly.
Track Your Giving: View your donation history and print tax statements anytime.
Give from Anywhere: Use your phone, tablet, or computer.
Visit https://saintnicholas.org/donation to donate and set up your account.

Your generosity fuels our ministries, outreach, and mission to love God and serve others.

STEWARDSHIP
To... show moreONE-CLICK GIVING!
Our church website has upgraded to Pushpay for all online donations, tithes, and a number of other transactions - making giving simpler, faster, and more secure.

Key Benefits for you:

One-Click Giving: Set up recurring tithes in seconds or make one-time gifts with ease.
Safe & Secure: Bank-level encryption protects your information.
Text-to-Give: Simply text “GIVE” to (833) 921-7035 to donate instantly.
Track Your Giving: View your donation history and print tax statements anytime.
Give from Anywhere: Use your phone, tablet, or computer.
Visit https://saintnicholas.org/donation to donate and set up your account.

Your generosity fuels our ministries, outreach, and mission to love God and serve others.

STEWARDSHIP
To make a committment electronically, please visit our online stewardship: https://saintnicholas.org/stewardship

Donation link: https://saintnicholas.org/donation ...show less

Matins Gospel Reading
Tenth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 21:1-14

At that time, Jesus revealed Himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and He revealed Himself in this way. Simon Peter, Thomas, called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, "I am going fishing." They said to him, "We will go with you." They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the beach, yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, "Children, have you any fish?" They answered him, "No." He said to them, "Cast the net on the... show moreMatins Gospel Reading
Tenth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 21:1-14

At that time, Jesus revealed Himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and He revealed Himself in this way. Simon Peter, Thomas, called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, "I am going fishing." They said to him, "We will go with you." They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the beach, yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, "Children, have you any fish?" They answered him, "No." He said to them, "Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some." So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, for the quantity of fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his clothes, for he was stripped for work, and sprang into the sea. But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off. When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire there with fish lying on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish that you have just caught." So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three of them; and although there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." Now none of the disciples dared ask Him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after He was raised from the dead. .

Tenth Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 21:1-14

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, ἐφανέρωσεν ἑαυτὸν ὁ Ἰησοῦς τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ, ἐγερθεὶς ἐκ νεκρῶν, ἐπὶ τῆς θαλάσσης τῆς Τιβεριάδος, ἐφανέρωσε δὲ οὕτως· Ἦσαν ὁμοῦ Σίμων Πέτρος, καὶ Θωμᾶς ὁ λεγόμενος Δίδυμος, καὶ Ναθαναὴλ ὁ ἀπὸ Κανᾶ τῆς Γαλιλαίας, καὶ οἱ τοῦ Ζεβεδαίου, καὶ ἄλλοι ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ δύο. Λέγει αὐτοῖς Σίμων Πέτρος· Ὑπάγω ἁλιεύειν. Λέγουσιν αὐτῷ· Ἐρχόμεθα καὶ ἡμεῖς σὺν σοί. Ἐξῆλθον καὶ ἀνέβησαν εἰς τὸ πλοῖον εὐθύς, καὶ ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ νυκτὶ ἐπίασαν οὐδέν. Πρωΐας δὲ ἤδη γενομένης ἔστη ὁ Ἰησοῦς εἰς τὸν αἰγιαλόν· οὐ μέντοι ᾔδεισαν οἱ μαθηταὶ ὅτι Ἰησοῦς ἐστι. Λέγει οὖν αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Παιδία, μή τι προσφάγιον ἔχετε; ἀπεκρίθησαν αὐτῷ· Οὔ· ὁ δὲ εἶπεν αὐτοῖς· Βάλετε εἰς τὰ δεξιὰ μέρη τοῦ πλοίου τὸ δίκτυον, καὶ εὑρήσετε. Ἔβαλον οὖν, καὶ οὐκέτι αὐτὸ ἑλκύσαι ἴσχυσαν ἀπὸ τοῦ πλήθους τῶν ἰχθύων. Λέγει οὖν ὁ μαθητὴς ἐκεῖνος ὃν ἠγάπα ὁ Ἰησοῦς τῷ Πέτρῳ· Ὁ Κύριός ἐστι. Σίμων οὖν Πέτρος, ἀκούσας ὅτι ὁ Κύριός ἐστι, τὸν ἐπενδύτην διεζώσατο - ἦν γὰρ γυμνὸς -, καὶ ἔβαλεν ἑαυτὸν εἰς τὴν θάλασσαν, οἱ δὲ ἄλλοι μαθηταὶ τῷ πλοιαρίῳ ἦλθον - οὐ γὰρ ἦσαν μακρὰν ἀπὸ τῆς γῆς, ἀλλ' ὡς ἀπὸ πηχῶν διακοσίων -, σύροντες τὸ δίκτυον τῶν ἰχθύων. Ὡς οὖν ἀπέβησαν εἰς τὴν γῆν, βλέπουσιν ἀνθρακιὰν κειμένην καὶ ὀψάριον ἐπικείμενον, καὶ ἄρτον. Λέγει αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Ἐνέγκατε ἀπὸ τῶν ὀψαρίων ὧν ἐπιάσατε νῦν. Ἀνέβη οὖν Σίμων Πέτρος, καὶ εἵλκυσε τὸ δίκτυον ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς, μεστὸν ἰχθύων μεγάλων ἑκατὸν πεντηκοντατριῶν, καὶ τοσούτων ὄντων, οὐκ ἐσχίσθη τὸ δίκτυον. Λέγει αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Δεῦτε ἀριστήσατε. Οὐδεὶς δὲ ἐτόλμα τῶν μαθητῶν ἐξετάσαι αὐτόν. Σὺ τίς εἶ; εἰδότες ὅτι ὁ Κύριός ἐστιν. Ἔρχεται οὖν ὁ Ἰησοῦς, καὶ λαμβάνει τὸν ἄρτον, καὶ δίδωσιν αὐτοῖς, καὶ τὸ ὀψάριον ὁμοίως. Τοῦτο ἤδη τρίτον ἐφανερώθη ὁ Ἰησοῦς τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ, ἐγερθεὶς ἐκ νεκρῶν.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. 4th Mode. Daniel 3.26,27.
Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our fathers.
Verse: For you are just in all you have done.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 13:7-16.

Brethren, remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God; consider the outcome of their lives, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever. Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings; for it is well that the heart be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited their adherents. We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. Therefore let us go forth to him outside the camp and bear the abuse he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city which is to come. Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

Προκείμενον. 4th Mode. Δανιήλ 3.26-27.
Εὐλογητὸς εἶ, Κύριε, ὁ Θεὸς τῶν Πατέρων ἡμῶν.
Στίχ. Ὅτι δίκαιος εἶ ἐπὶ πᾶσιν, οἷς ἐποίησας ἡμῖν.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Ἑβραίους 13:7-16.

Ἀδελφοί, μνημονεύετε τῶν ἡγουμένων ὑμῶν, οἵτινες ἐλάλησαν ὑμῖν τὸν λόγον τοῦ θεοῦ· ὧν ἀναθεωροῦντες τὴν ἔκβασιν τῆς ἀναστροφῆς, μιμεῖσθε τὴν πίστιν. Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς χθὲς καὶ σήμερον ὁ αὐτός, καὶ εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας. Διδαχαῖς ποικίλαις καὶ ξέναις μὴ παραφέρεσθε· καλὸν γὰρ χάριτι βεβαιοῦσθαι τὴν καρδίαν, οὐ βρώμασιν, ἐν οἷς οὐκ ὠφελήθησαν οἱ περιπατήσαντες. Ἔχομεν θυσιαστήριον, ἐξ οὗ φαγεῖν οὐκ ἔχουσιν ἐξουσίαν οἱ τῇ σκηνῇ λατρεύοντες. Ὧν γὰρ εἰσφέρεται ζῴων τὸ αἷμα περὶ ἁμαρτίας εἰς τὰ ἅγια διὰ τοῦ ἀρχιερέως, τούτων τὰ σώματα κατακαίεται ἔξω τῆς παρεμβολῆς. Διὸ καὶ Ἰησοῦς, ἵνα ἁγιάσῃ διὰ τοῦ ἰδίου αἵματος τὸν λαόν, ἔξω τῆς πύλης ἔπαθεν. Τοίνυν ἐξερχώμεθα πρὸς αὐτὸν ἔξω τῆς παρεμβολῆς, τὸν ὀνειδισμὸν αὐτοῦ φέροντες. Οὐ γὰρ ἔχομεν ὧδε μένουσαν πόλιν, ἀλλὰ τὴν μέλλουσαν ἐπιζητοῦμεν. Διʼ αὐτοῦ οὖν ἀναφέρωμεν θυσίαν αἰνέσεως διὰ παντὸς τῷ θεῷ, τοῦτʼ ἔστιν, καρπὸν χειλέων ὁμολογούντων τῷ ὀνόματι αὐτοῦ. Τῆς δὲ εὐποιΐας καὶ κοινωνίας μὴ ἐπιλανθάνεσθε· τοιαύταις γὰρ θυσίαις εὐαρεστεῖται ὁ θεός.

Gospel Reading
12th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 17:12-19

At that time, as Jesus entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said: "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." When he saw them he said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus's feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then said Jesus: "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" And he said to him: "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."

12th Sunday of Luke
Κατὰ Λουκᾶν 17:12-19

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, εἰσερχομένου αὐτοῦ εἴς τινα κώμην ἀπήντησαν αὐτῷ δέκα λεπροὶ ἄνδρες, οἳ ἔστησαν πόρρωθεν, καὶ αὐτοὶ ἦραν φωνὴν λέγοντες· ᾿Ιησοῦ ἐπιστάτα, ἐλέησον ἡμᾶς. καὶ ἰδὼν εἶπεν αὐτοῖς· πορευθέντες ἐπιδείξατε ἑαυτοὺς τοῖς ἱερεῦσι. καὶ ἐγένετο ἐν τῷ ὑπάγειν αὐτοὺς ἐκαθαρίσθησαν. εἷς δὲ ἐξ αὐτῶν, ἰδὼν ὅτι ἰάθη, ὑπέστρεψε μετὰ φωνῆς μεγάλης δοξάζων τὸν Θεόν, καὶ ἔπεσεν ἐπὶ πρόσωπον παρὰ τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ εὐχαριστῶν αὐτῷ· καὶ αὐτὸς ἦν Σαμαρείτης. ἀποκριθεὶς δὲ ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς εἶπεν· οὐχὶ οἱ δέκα ἐκαθαρίσθησαν; οἱ δὲ ἐννέα ποῦ; οὐχ εὑρέθησαν ὑποστρέψαντες δοῦναι δόξαν τῷ Θεῷ εἰ μὴ ὁ ἀλλογενὴς οὗτος; καὶ εἶπεν αὐτῷ· ἀναστὰς πορεύου· ἡ πίστις σου σέσωκέ σε. ...show less

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Grave Mode
By means of Your Cross, O Lord, You abolished death. * To the robber You opened Paradise. * The lamentation of the myrrhbearing women You transformed, * and You gave Your Apostles the order to proclaim to all * that You had risen, O Christ our God, * and granted the world Your great mercy.

Κατέλυσας τῷ Σταυρῷ σου τὸν θάνατον, ἠνέῳξας τῷ Λῃστῇ τὸν Παράδεισον, τῶν Μυροφόρων τὸν θρῆνον μετέβαλες, καὶ τοῖς σοῖς Ἀποστόλοις κηρύττειν ἐπέταξας, ὅτι ἀνέστης Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, παρέχων τῷ κόσμῳ τὸ μέγα ἔλεος.

Apolytikion... show moreResurrectional Apolytikion in the Grave Mode
By means of Your Cross, O Lord, You abolished death. * To the robber You opened Paradise. * The lamentation of the myrrhbearing women You transformed, * and You gave Your Apostles the order to proclaim to all * that You had risen, O Christ our God, * and granted the world Your great mercy.

Κατέλυσας τῷ Σταυρῷ σου τὸν θάνατον, ἠνέῳξας τῷ Λῃστῇ τὸν Παράδεισον, τῶν Μυροφόρων τὸν θρῆνον μετέβαλες, καὶ τοῖς σοῖς Ἀποστόλοις κηρύττειν ἐπέταξας, ὅτι ἀνέστης Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, παρέχων τῷ κόσμῳ τὸ μέγα ἔλεος.

Apolytikion for Athanasios and Cyril, Patriarchs of Alexandria in the 3rd Mode
Shining forth with works of Orthodoxy, ye quenched every false belief and teaching and became trophy-bearers and conquerors. And since ye made all things rich and with true piety, greatly adorning the Church with magnificence, Athanasios and wise Cyril, ye both have worthily found Christ God, Who doth grant great mercy unto all.

Ἔργοις λάμψαντες Ὀρθοδοξίας, πᾶσαν σβέσαντες κακοδοξίαν, νικηταὶ τροπαιοφόροι γεγόνατε, τὴ εὐσεβεία τὰ πάντα πλουτίσαντες, τὴν Ἐκκλησί, ἂν μεγάλως κοσμήσαντες, ἀξίως εὔρατε Χριστὸν τὸν Θεὸν εὐχαὶς ὑμῶν, δωρούμενον πᾶσι τὸ μέγα ἔλεος.

Apolytikion of Saint Nicholas in the 1st Mode
An example of the faith and a life of humility, as a teacher of self-control you did inspire and lead your flock, and through the truthfulness of your deeds, were exalted by greatness through your humility, uplifting all, and by poverty gaining strength. Father and hierarch Saint Nicholas, intercede with Christ our God, that our souls may be saved.

Κανόνα πίστεως καί εικόνα πραότητος, εγκρατείας Διδάσκαλον, ανέδειξέ σε τή ποίμνη σου, η τών πραγμάτων αλήθεια, διά τούτο εκτήσω τή ταπεινώσει τά υψηλά, τή πτωχεία τά πλούσια, Πάτερ Ιεράρχα Νικόλαε, πρέσβευε Χριστώ τώ Θεώ, σωθήναι τάς ψυχάς ημών.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 1st Mode
Your birth sanctified a Virgin's womb and properly blessed the hands of Symeon. Having now come and saved us O Christ our God, give peace to Your commonwealth in troubled times and strengthen those in authority, whom You love, as only the loving One.
Ὁ μήτραν παρθενικὴν ἁγιάσας τῶ τόκω σου, καὶ χείρας τοῦ Συμεὼν εὐλογήσας ὡς ἔπρεπε, προφθάσας καὶ νὺν ἔσωσας ἡμᾶς Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός. Ἀλλ' εἰρήνευσον ἐν πολέμοις τὸ πολίτευμα, καὶ κραταίωσον Βασιλεῖς οὓς ἠγάπησας, ὁ μόνος φιλάνθρωπος. ...show less

Having met the Savior, therefore, the lepers earnestly besought Him to free them from their misery, and called Him Master, that is. Teacher. No one pitied them when suffering this malady, but He Who had appeared on earth for this very reason, and had become man that He might show pity to all, He was moved with compassion for them, and had mercy on them.

St. Cyril of Alexandria
Commentary on the Gospel of St. Luke, Homilies 113-116. B#42, pp. 465-466, 4th Century

And why did He not rather say, I will, be you cleansed; as He did in the case of another leper, but commanded them rather to show themselves to the priests? It was because the law gave directions to this effect to those who were delivered from leprosy (Lev. 14-2); for it commanded... show moreHaving met the Savior, therefore, the lepers earnestly besought Him to free them from their misery, and called Him Master, that is. Teacher. No one pitied them when suffering this malady, but He Who had appeared on earth for this very reason, and had become man that He might show pity to all, He was moved with compassion for them, and had mercy on them.

St. Cyril of Alexandria
Commentary on the Gospel of St. Luke, Homilies 113-116. B#42, pp. 465-466, 4th Century

And why did He not rather say, I will, be you cleansed; as He did in the case of another leper, but commanded them rather to show themselves to the priests? It was because the law gave directions to this effect to those who were delivered from leprosy (Lev. 14-2); for it commanded them to show themselves to the priests, and to offer a sacrifice for their cleansing.

St. Cyril of Alexandria
Commentary on the Gospel of St. Luke, Homilies 113-116. B#42, pp. 465-466, 4th Century ...show less

Our Journey to Pascha 2026! Our Journey to Pascha! Please take a look at the full schedule.

- FEBRUARY 1st, Publican and the Pharisee
- FEBRUARY 8th, The Prodigal Son Returns!
- FEBRUARY 15th, The Last Judgement
- FEBRUARY 22nd, Adam and Eve are cast from Paradise!
- MARCH 1st, SUNDAY of ORTHODOXY
- MARCH 8th, ST GREGORY PALAMAS
- MARCH 15th, VENERATION OF THE HOLY CROSS
- MARCH 22nd, ST JOHN of the LADDER
- MARCH 29th, ST MARY of EGYPT
- APRIL 5th, ENTRY OF OUR LORD INTO JERUSALEM
- APRIL 10th, GREAT AND HOLY FRIDAY
- APRIL 12th, HOLY PASCHA! (CHRIST IS RISEN!)

We invite all parishioners to attend the Divine Liturgy with their completed stewardship card and to experience the spiritual blessings that come from being a faithful steward of Saint Nicholas.

This year's stewardship theme, Rise Up and Build, calls each of us to take an active role strengthening our parish community.

Don't Miss the Missions Ministry Vasilopita on January 24 at 2 pm.

All are welcome!

Join us for a joyful afternoon of fellowship, Vasilopita and Mission. Refreshments provided. Free-will offering to benefit OCMC's SAMP (Support a Mission Priest) program.

We are honored to welcome His Eminence Metropolitan Tarasios of Rhodopolis, who will share reflections from his many years of ministry in Argentina and South America, along with Anastasia Pamela Barksdale of OCMC, offering updates on missionary work around the world.

OCMC Missionary Dr. Kristina Mantasasvili will join us via Zoom, live from Buenos Aires, to speak about her missionary work in Argentina.

January 11

Afterfeast of the Theophany of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

Please join in prayer for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord:

ARCHON THEOFANIS ECONOMIDIS (40 DAYS), father of Roberta Economidis

VASILIOS (BILL) PATSURIS, (1 YR), husband of Jean Patsuris, father of Terri (Chris) Anderson and Annette Patsuris

May their memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by St. Anna Philoptochos in the Small Hall with support from families with memorial services. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts for January 18, 2026: The Basketball Ministry

**Please note: Printed Sunday scripture readings are available in the Narthex**

NEW STREAMLINED E-BULLETIN
Please look at our new, lean, streamlined look of this e-bulletin which will reflect only events that are lined up for the coming week. All flyers and announcements for future events will be coming in a separate parish wide email, posted on our social media pages, reflected on our website, and placed in the Canon of Faith.

VASILOPITA BLESSING
On Sunday, January 11th, there will be the Blessing of the Vasilopita in honor of the Feastday of St. Basil the Great after the Divine Liturgy. His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos will be joining us.

OATH OF OFFICE
On Sunday, January 11th, the continuing and elected members of the Parish Council will be taking the Oath of Office in the church immediately following the... show moreNEW STREAMLINED E-BULLETIN
Please look at our new, lean, streamlined look of this e-bulletin which will reflect only events that are lined up for the coming week. All flyers and announcements for future events will be coming in a separate parish wide email, posted on our social media pages, reflected on our website, and placed in the Canon of Faith.

VASILOPITA BLESSING
On Sunday, January 11th, there will be the Blessing of the Vasilopita in honor of the Feastday of St. Basil the Great after the Divine Liturgy. His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos will be joining us.

OATH OF OFFICE
On Sunday, January 11th, the continuing and elected members of the Parish Council will be taking the Oath of Office in the church immediately following the Divine Liturgy.

ST. ANNA PHILOPTOCHOS ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, St Anna Philoptochos will be hosting coffee hour and having their annual membership drive. Have a coffee and a treat and get a start on renewing your 2026 Philoptochos dues or become a new member! Looking forward to seeing you!

HOUSE BLESSINGS
We invite any parishioners who would like to have their house blessed for the Epiphany season to contact the office (408-246-2770) to schedule with one of our priests. Please schedule now until February 2nd.

ST. ANNA PHILOPTOCHOS CHRISTMAS APPEAL
As we celebrate the Christmas season, St. Anna Philoptochos invites you to join us in supporting local charities and our own Social Services program, whose work provides essential services to individuals and families in need. Your donation—of any amount—will make a meaningful impact this Christmas. Thank you for your generosity.

To make a donation either on-line or with a check, go to the following website for more information.

http://saintnicholas.org/philoptochos_christmas_appeal

ST. NICHOLAS BIBLE STUDY - THURSDAY MORNINGS
Come and see, hear and taste that the Lord is Good! St. Nicholas Bible Study continues on Thursdays at 10:00am with Fr. James in the Church Office Conference Room. Bring your Bible; coffee and refreshments provided. Theme: Reflecting on the Sunday Gospels.

ST. NICHOLAS FAMILY EVENT - SANTA CLARA MEN'S BASKETBALL VS ST. MARY'S - SATURDAY, JAN 17TH
The GOYA, JOY, and Basketball ministries are joining forces to host an afternoon to watch Santa Clara Men's basketball take on their East Bay rivals from St. Mary's. We encourage you to join us at 2pm for pizza, salad, and refreshments and carpool to the nearby game. The game tips off at 4pm at the Santa Clara University Leavey Center. Kids will have an opportunity for on-court activities during and after the game. We hope to replicate a great time that we had last year. The cost of the game ticket is $30/person and lunch is hosted by the ministries. Contact Sofia Kotsiri (sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com), John Cocoles (jcocoles5@gmail.com) and Helene Panos (simvoulakish@gmail.com) for more information and to reserve a ticket.

YOUTH BASKETBALL - TEAM PRACTICES BEGIN IN JANUARY
The St Nicholas youth basketball program is starting team practices for the Spring '26 season. Last year we fielded 5 teams: Boys and Girls Elementary, Boys and Girls Middle School, and Boys High School with over 40 participants. Congrats to our Elementary Girls and High School Boys on winning the League Championship!

Boys Elementary (3rd-5th Grade) will practice beginning the week of January 12th, specific date and time to come.

Girls Elementary (3rd-5th Grade) and Middle School (6th-8th Grade) will practice weekly on Mondays at 6:30 beginning on January 12th

Boys Middle School (6th-8th Grade) will practice weekly on Tuesdays at 6:45 beginning on January 6th

Boys High School (9th-12th Grade) will begin practices in late January. Those wishing to participate earlier can join the MS boys practices on Tuesdays.

All new players (including siblings of returning players) MUST register here: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/128/responses/new Returning players do NOT need to re-register.

UNIFORM RETURN: If you still have your uniform from last year, we NEED them returned ASAP. Bring to practice or give them to a Coach or John Cocoles during Sunday Coffee hour. We need to know how many new uniforms we may need to buy and which sizes.

The Orthodox Youth Athletic Association is a recreational league with other Orthodox churches in the Bay Area with games typically on Sunday afternoons starting soon after FDF in February. We look forward to another fun and successful season. To register: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. If you have any questions, please contact John Cocoles at basketball@saintnicholas.org or jcocoles5@gmail.com

MERRY Christmas to all and we wish you a Blessed New Year

ADULT OPEN GYM BASKETBALL
Adult Open Gym Basketball is every Wednesday at 7:30pm in the Community Center. All parishioners (including guests) must sign up first before participating; online sign up form is at the link below. All communications will be handled through WhatsApp where there will be live updates on the day of the event; link down below to join.

Adult Open Gym sign up form: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/118/responses/new

Adult Open Gym guidelines:

https://docs.google.com/file/d/1Pqh-9ytke7trggbRvI-t0IW4sHL22Re4/edit?usp=docslist_api&filetype=msword

Adult Open Gym WhatsApp group chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/ExKTcpbEo7oBPOR3Ssfi1P ...show less

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES
· New Year Start: Sunday School resumes January 11, 2026

ONE-CLICK GIVING!
Our church website has upgraded to Pushpay for all online donations, tithes, and a number of other transactions - making giving simpler, faster, and more secure.

Key Benefits for you:

One-Click Giving: Set up recurring tithes in seconds or make one-time gifts with ease.
Safe & Secure: Bank-level encryption protects your information.
Text-to-Give: Simply text “GIVE” to (833) 921-7035 to donate instantly.
Track Your Giving: View your donation history and print tax statements anytime.
Give from Anywhere: Use your phone, tablet, or computer.
Visit https://saintnicholas.org/donation to donate and set up your account.

Your generosity fuels our ministries, outreach, and mission to love God and serve others.

STEWARDSHIP
To... show moreONE-CLICK GIVING!
Our church website has upgraded to Pushpay for all online donations, tithes, and a number of other transactions - making giving simpler, faster, and more secure.

Key Benefits for you:

One-Click Giving: Set up recurring tithes in seconds or make one-time gifts with ease.
Safe & Secure: Bank-level encryption protects your information.
Text-to-Give: Simply text “GIVE” to (833) 921-7035 to donate instantly.
Track Your Giving: View your donation history and print tax statements anytime.
Give from Anywhere: Use your phone, tablet, or computer.
Visit https://saintnicholas.org/donation to donate and set up your account.

Your generosity fuels our ministries, outreach, and mission to love God and serve others.

STEWARDSHIP
To make a committment electronically, please visit our online stewardship: https://saintnicholas.org/stewardship

Donation link: https://saintnicholas.org/donation ...show less

Matins Gospel Reading
Ninth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 20:19-31

On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you." When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, even so I send you." And when He had said this, He breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was... show moreMatins Gospel Reading
Ninth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 20:19-31

On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you." When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, even so I send you." And when He had said this, He breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in His side, I will not believe." Eight days later, His disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then He said to Thomas, "Put your finger here, and see My hands; and put out your hand, and place it in My side; do not be faithless, but believing." Thomas answered Him, "My Lord and My God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen Me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe." Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing, you may have life in His name.

Ninth Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 20:19-31

Οὔσης ὀψίας τῇ ἡμέρᾳ ἐκείνῃ τῇ μιᾷ τῶν σαββάτων, καὶ τῶν θυρῶν κεκλεισμένων ὅπου ἦσαν οἱ μαθηταὶ συνηγμένοι διὰ τὸν φόβον τῶν Ἰουδαίων, ἦλθεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς καὶ ἔστη εἰς τὸ μέσον, καὶ λέγει αὐτοῖς· Εἰρήνη ὑμῖν. Καὶ τοῦτο εἰπὼν ἔδειξεν αὐτοῖς τὰς χεῖρας καὶ τὴν πλευρὰν αὐτοῦ· ἐχάρησαν οὖν οἱ μαθηταὶ ἰδόντες τὸν Κύριον. Εἶπεν οὖν αὐτοῖς ὁ Ἰησοῦς πάλιν· Εἰρήνη ὑμῖν, καθὼς ἀπέσταλκέ με ὁ πατήρ, κᾀγὼ πέμπω ὑμᾶς. Καὶ τοῦτο εἰπὼν ἐνεφύσησε καὶ λέγει αὐτοῖς· Λάβετε Πνεῦμα Ἅγιον. Ἄν τινων ἀφῆτε τὰς ἁμαρτίας, ἀφιένται αὐτοῖς, ἄν τινων κρατῆτε, κεκράτηνται. Θωμᾶς δέ, εἷς ἐκ τῶν δώδεκα, ὁ λεγόμενος Δίδυμος, οὐκ ἦν μετʼ αὐτῶν ὅτε ἦλθεν Ἰησοῦς· ἔλεγον οὖν αὐτῷ οἱ ἄλλοι μαθηταί· Ἑωράκαμεν τὸν Κύριον. Ὁ δὲ εἶπεν αὐτοῖς· Ἐὰν μὴ ἴδω ἐν ταῖς χερσὶν αὐτοῦ τὸν τύπον τῶν ἥλων, καὶ βάλω τὸν δάκτυλόν μου εἰς τὸν τύπον τῶν ἥλων, καὶ βάλω τὴν χεῖρά μου εἰς τὴν πλευρὰν αὐτοῦ, οὐ μὴ πιστεύσω. Καὶ μεθʼ ἡμέρας ὀκτὼ πάλιν ἦσαν ἔσω οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ, καὶ Θωμᾶς μετʼ αὐτῶν. Ἔρχεται ὁ Ἰησοῦς τῶν θυρῶν κεκλεισμένων, καὶ ἔστη εἰς τὸ μέσον καὶ εἶπεν· Εἰρήνη ὑμῖν. Εἶτα λέγει τῷ Θωμᾶ· φέρε τὸν δάκτυλόν σου ᾧδε, καὶ ἴδε τὰς χεῖράς μου. καὶ φέρε τὴν χεῖρά σου καὶ βάλε εἰς τὴν πλευράν μου, καὶ μὴ γίνου ἄπιστος ἀλλὰ πιστός. Καὶ ἀπεκρίθη ὁ Θωμᾶς, καὶ εἶπεν αὐτῷ· Ὁ Κύριός μου καὶ ὁ Θεός μου. Λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Ὅτι ἑώρακάς με πεπίστευκας, μακάριοι οἱ μὴ ἰδόντες, καὶ πιστεύσαντες. Πολλὰ μὲν οὖν καὶ ἄλλα σημεῖα ἐποίησεν ὁ Ἰησοῦς ἐνώπιον τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ, ἃ οὐκ ἔστιν γεγραμμένα ἐν τῷ βιβλίῳ τούτῳ· ταῦτα δὲ γέγραπται ἵνα πιστεύσητε ὅτι ὁ Ἰησοῦς ἐστιν ὁ Χριστὸς ὁ υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ ἵνα πιστεύοντες, ζωὴν ἔχητε ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι αὐτοῦ.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Grave Mode. Psalm 115.5,3 (116.15,12).
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
Verse: What shall I render to the Lord for all that he has given me?

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Hebrews 13:7-16.

Brethren, remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God; consider the outcome of their lives, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever. Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings; for it is well that the heart be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited their adherents. We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. Therefore let us go forth to him outside the camp and bear the abuse he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city which is to come. Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

Προκείμενον. Grave Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 115.5,3 (116.15,12).
Τίμιος ἐναντίον Κυρίου ὁ θάνατος τῶν ὁσίων αὐτοῦ.
Στίχ. Τί ἀνταποδώσωμεν τῷ Κυρίῳ περὶ πάντων, ὧν ἀνταπέδωκεν ἡμῖν;

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Ἑβραίους 13:7-16.

Ἀδελφοί, μνημονεύετε τῶν ἡγουμένων ὑμῶν, οἵτινες ἐλάλησαν ὑμῖν τὸν λόγον τοῦ θεοῦ· ὧν ἀναθεωροῦντες τὴν ἔκβασιν τῆς ἀναστροφῆς, μιμεῖσθε τὴν πίστιν. Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς χθὲς καὶ σήμερον ὁ αὐτός, καὶ εἰς τοὺς αἰῶνας. Διδαχαῖς ποικίλαις καὶ ξέναις μὴ παραφέρεσθε· καλὸν γὰρ χάριτι βεβαιοῦσθαι τὴν καρδίαν, οὐ βρώμασιν, ἐν οἷς οὐκ ὠφελήθησαν οἱ περιπατήσαντες. Ἔχομεν θυσιαστήριον, ἐξ οὗ φαγεῖν οὐκ ἔχουσιν ἐξουσίαν οἱ τῇ σκηνῇ λατρεύοντες. Ὧν γὰρ εἰσφέρεται ζῴων τὸ αἷμα περὶ ἁμαρτίας εἰς τὰ ἅγια διὰ τοῦ ἀρχιερέως, τούτων τὰ σώματα κατακαίεται ἔξω τῆς παρεμβολῆς. Διὸ καὶ Ἰησοῦς, ἵνα ἁγιάσῃ διὰ τοῦ ἰδίου αἵματος τὸν λαόν, ἔξω τῆς πύλης ἔπαθεν. Τοίνυν ἐξερχώμεθα πρὸς αὐτὸν ἔξω τῆς παρεμβολῆς, τὸν ὀνειδισμὸν αὐτοῦ φέροντες. Οὐ γὰρ ἔχομεν ὧδε μένουσαν πόλιν, ἀλλὰ τὴν μέλλουσαν ἐπιζητοῦμεν. Διʼ αὐτοῦ οὖν ἀναφέρωμεν θυσίαν αἰνέσεως διὰ παντὸς τῷ θεῷ, τοῦτʼ ἔστιν, καρπὸν χειλέων ὁμολογούντων τῷ ὀνόματι αὐτοῦ. Τῆς δὲ εὐποιΐας καὶ κοινωνίας μὴ ἐπιλανθάνεσθε· τοιαύταις γὰρ θυσίαις εὐαρεστεῖται ὁ θεός.

Gospel Reading
Sunday after Epiphany
The Reading is from Matthew 4:12-17

At that time, when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: "The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, toward the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles, the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned." From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

Sunday after Epiphany
Κατὰ Ματθαῖον 4:12-17

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, ἀκούσας δὲ ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς ὅτι ᾿Ιωάννης παρεδόθη, ἀνεχώρησεν εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν, καὶ καταλιπὼν τὴν Ναζαρὲτ ἐλθὼν κατῴκησεν εἰς Καπερναοὺμ τὴν παραθαλασσίαν ἐν ὁρίοις Ζαβουλὼν καὶ Νεφθαλείμ, ἵνα πληρωθῇ τὸ ῥηθὲν διὰ ῾Ησαΐου τοῦ προφήτου λέγοντος· γῆ Ζαβουλὼν καὶ γῆ Νεφθαλείμ, ὁδὸν θαλάσσης, πέραν τοῦ ᾿Ιορδάνου, Γαλιλαία τῶν ἐθνῶν, ὁ λαὸς ὁ καθήμενος ἐν σκότειεἶδε φῶς μέγα, καὶ τοῖς καθημένοις ἐν χώρᾳ καὶ σκιᾷ θανάτουφῶς ἀνέτειλεν αὐτοῖς. ᾿Απὸ τότε ἤρξατο ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς κηρύσσειν καὶ λέγειν· μετανοεῖτε· ἤγγικε γὰρ ἡ βασιλεία τῶν οὐρανῶν. ...show less

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 2nd Mode
When the angelic powers appeared at Your grave, the soldiers guarding it feared and became as dead. And standing by the sepulcher was Mary who was seeking Your immaculate body. You devastated Hades, not afflicted by it. You went to meet the virgin, and granted eternal life. You resurrected from the dead. O Lord, glory to You.

Ἀγγελικαὶ Δυνάμεις ἐπὶ τὸ μνῆμά σου, καὶ οἱ φυλάσσοντες ἀπενεκρώθησαν, καὶ ἵστατο Μαρία ἐν τῷ τάφῳ, ζητοῦσα τὸ ἄχραντόν σου σῶμα. Ἐσκύλευσας τὸν ᾍδην, μὴ πειρασθεὶς ὑπ' αὐτοῦ, ὑπήντησας... show moreResurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 2nd Mode
When the angelic powers appeared at Your grave, the soldiers guarding it feared and became as dead. And standing by the sepulcher was Mary who was seeking Your immaculate body. You devastated Hades, not afflicted by it. You went to meet the virgin, and granted eternal life. You resurrected from the dead. O Lord, glory to You.

Ἀγγελικαὶ Δυνάμεις ἐπὶ τὸ μνῆμά σου, καὶ οἱ φυλάσσοντες ἀπενεκρώθησαν, καὶ ἵστατο Μαρία ἐν τῷ τάφῳ, ζητοῦσα τὸ ἄχραντόν σου σῶμα. Ἐσκύλευσας τὸν ᾍδην, μὴ πειρασθεὶς ὑπ' αὐτοῦ, ὑπήντησας τῇ Παρθένῳ, δωρούμενος τὴν ζωήν, ὁ ἀναστὰς ἐκ των νεκρῶν, Κύριε δόξα σοι.

Apolytikion for Theophany Afterfeast in the 1st Mode
When Thou wast baptized in the Jordan, O Lord, the worship of the Trinity was made manifest; for the voice of the Father bare witness to Thee, calling Thee His beloved Son. And the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the certainty of the word. O Christ our God, Who hast appeared and hast enlightened the world, glory be to Thee.

Ἐν Ἰορδάνῃ βαπτιζομένου σου Κύριε, ἡ τῆς Τριάδος ἐφανερώθη προσκύνησις, τοῦ γὰρ Γεννήτορος ἡ φωνὴ προσεμαρτύρει σοί, ἀγαπητὸν σὲ Υἱὸν ὀνομάζουσα, καὶ τὸ Πνεῦμα ἐν εἴδει περιστεράς, ἐβεβαίου τοῦ λόγου τὸ ἀσφαλές. Ὁ ἐπιφανεῖς Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, καὶ τὸν κόσμον φωτίσας δόξα σοί.

Apolytikion for Theodosius the Cenobiarch in the Plagal 4th Mode
With the streams of thy tears, thou didst cultivate the barrenness of the desert; and by thy sighings from the depths,thou didst bear fruit a hundredfold in labours; and thou becamest a luminary, shining with miracles upon the world, O Theodosios our righteous Father. Intercede with Christ God that our souls be saved.

Ταίς τών δακρύων σου ροαίς, τής ερήμου τό άγονον εγεώργησας, καί τοίς εκ βάθους στεναγμοίς, εις εκατόν τούς πόνους εκαρποφόρησας, καί γέγονας φωστήρ, τή οικουμένη λάμπων τοίς θαύμασι, Θεοδόσιε Πατήρ ημών, Όσιε, Πρέσβευε Χριστώ τώ Θεώ, σωθήναι τάς ψυχάς ημών.

Apolytikion of Saint Nicholas in the 1st Mode
An example of the faith and a life of humility, as a teacher of self-control you did inspire and lead your flock, and through the truthfulness of your deeds, were exalted by greatness through your humility, uplifting all, and by poverty gaining strength. Father and hierarch Saint Nicholas, intercede with Christ our God, that our souls may be saved.

Κανόνα πίστεως καί εικόνα πραότητος, εγκρατείας Διδάσκαλον, ανέδειξέ σε τή ποίμνη σου, η τών πραγμάτων αλήθεια, διά τούτο εκτήσω τή ταπεινώσει τά υψηλά, τή πτωχεία τά πλούσια, Πάτερ Ιεράρχα Νικόλαε, πρέσβευε Χριστώ τώ Θεώ, σωθήναι τάς ψυχάς ημών.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 4th Mode
You appeared to the world today, and Your light, O Lord, has left its mark upon us. With fuller understanding we sing to You: "You came, You were made manifest, the unapproachable light."
Ἐπεφάνης σήμερον τὴ οἰκουμένη, καὶ τὸ φῶς σου Κύριε, ἐσημειώθη ἐφ' ἡμᾶς, ἓν ἐπιγνώσει ὑμνούντάς σε. Ἦλθες ἐφάνης τὸ Φῶς τὸ ἀπρόσιτον. ...show less

Theophany or Epiphany? Manifesting God’s love in the world

Every year, on either January 6 or 19 — depending on whether one follows the New or Old Calendar — Orthodox Christians celebrate the feast of Theophany. This sacred day commemorates Christ’s baptism andthe beginning of His public ministry, placing at the heart of the liturgical experience the sacramental role of water in transmitting God’s grace. From the frozen lakes of Minnesota to the balmy shores of Florida, and from the Pacific to the Atlantic, Orthodox Christians come together to bless waters — whether in a small font or a mighty river — by plunging a cross into them. The most courageous participants, often braving icy waters, compete to retrieve the cross, a... show moreTheophany or Epiphany? Manifesting God’s love in the world

Every year, on either January 6 or 19 — depending on whether one follows the New or Old Calendar — Orthodox Christians celebrate the feast of Theophany. This sacred day commemorates Christ’s baptism andthe beginning of His public ministry, placing at the heart of the liturgical experience the sacramental role of water in transmitting God’s grace. From the frozen lakes of Minnesota to the balmy shores of Florida, and from the Pacific to the Atlantic, Orthodox Christians come together to bless waters — whether in a small font or a mighty river — by plunging a cross into them. The most courageous participants, often braving icy waters, compete to retrieve the cross, a powerful act symbolizing faith and renewal.

These celebrations transcend mere historical reenactments of ecclesial events from 2,000 years ago. They serve as visible signs of the Church’s mission in the world, embodying its sacramental reality. By entering the waters of baptism, Christians participate in Christ’s death and resurrection, as St. Paul eloquently reminds us:

"By our baptism, then, we are buried with Him and share His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from death by the glorious power of the Father, so also we might live a new life. (Romans 6:4)."

https://orthodoxobserver.org/theophany-or-epiphany-manifesting-gods-love-in-the-world/ ...show less

Become a Saint Anna Philoptochos Member Today!

Continue your membership or become a member of the Saint Anna Chapter of Philoptochos and be part of meaningful, lasting change in the Saint Nicholas community. There are countless ways to get involved:
- Participate in our meetings.
- Be part of our special events.
- Contribute to a committee.
- Help with our fundraising efforts.
- Offer your unique talents and skills in support of our mission.

AND, if your schedule doesn’t allow active participation, know that your financial support also contributes significantly to our cause.

Use the following link or QR code below to pay on-line:
https://buy.stripe.com/eVq7sNgtA8BlajLdSc7Re04

or, If you prefer to submit your membership... show moreBecome a Saint Anna Philoptochos Member Today!

Continue your membership or become a member of the Saint Anna Chapter of Philoptochos and be part of meaningful, lasting change in the Saint Nicholas community. There are countless ways to get involved:
- Participate in our meetings.
- Be part of our special events.
- Contribute to a committee.
- Help with our fundraising efforts.
- Offer your unique talents and skills in support of our mission.

AND, if your schedule doesn’t allow active participation, know that your financial support also contributes significantly to our cause.

Use the following link or QR code below to pay on-line:
https://buy.stripe.com/eVq7sNgtA8BlajLdSc7Re04

or, If you prefer to submit your membership form by mail, print the following form, fill it out and return in an envelope
https://saintnicholas.org/docs/2026_philoptochos_membership_form.pdf

If you would like a paper membership form sent to you, please call 408-418-6056 or e-mail philo@saintnicholas.org.

Philoptochos is the philanthropic organization of the Greek Orthodox Church in America. We participate in philanthropic projects locally, nationally and globally. Our work is only possible through the support of our members. Please join us! Your membership directly supports our mission, strengthens our programs, and helps us reach more people in need. By joining, you’re not just giving support—you’re becoming part of a community committed to making a real difference together.
...show less

January 04

Forefeast of the Theophany of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

Please join in prayer for the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the Lord:

SUSANA KOTTIKAS (6 MO), wife of Takis Kottikas, mother of Angie, Thanos, and Gina, mother-in-law of Juliano Bufo, grandmother of Antonis

May her memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Christie Yiasemis, Eleni Yiasemis, and Meropi Zogopoulos in the Small Hall with support from families with memorial services. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts for January 11, 2026: St. Anna Philoptochos

**Please note: Printed Sunday scripture readings are available in the Narthex**

SPECIAL TRAY - ST. BASIL'S ACADEMY
On Sunday, January 4, 2026, St. Anna Philoptochos will pass a tray with all proceeds going to St. Basil's Academy, which cares for children of our faith whose families cannot care for them. St. Basil is the first known individual who founded orphanages and hospitals for those in need, hence the appropriate name of St. Basil's Academy. Please make checks payable to St. Anna Philoptochos with St. Basil's Academy in the memo line. Thank you for your generosity.

TWO VACANCIES IN 2026 PARISH COUNCIL - APPLY NOW
Two vacancies in the 2026 Parish Council are open for one-year terms each. In accordance with the Uniform Parish Regulations, any St. Nicholas parishioner in good standing can apply... show moreSPECIAL TRAY - ST. BASIL'S ACADEMY
On Sunday, January 4, 2026, St. Anna Philoptochos will pass a tray with all proceeds going to St. Basil's Academy, which cares for children of our faith whose families cannot care for them. St. Basil is the first known individual who founded orphanages and hospitals for those in need, hence the appropriate name of St. Basil's Academy. Please make checks payable to St. Anna Philoptochos with St. Basil's Academy in the memo line. Thank you for your generosity.

TWO VACANCIES IN 2026 PARISH COUNCIL - APPLY NOW
Two vacancies in the 2026 Parish Council are open for one-year terms each. In accordance with the Uniform Parish Regulations, any St. Nicholas parishioner in good standing can apply to be considered. To apply, please complete the application form that you received in your email and return it to the church office by Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 3:00pm or call the church office at 408-246-2770. We encourage all eligible parishioners to prayerfully consider this opportunity to serve.

ST. ANNA PHILOPTOCHOS ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, St Anna Philoptochos will be hosting coffee hour and having their annual membership drive. Have a coffee and a treat and get a start on renewing your 2026 Philoptochos dues or become a new member! Looking forward to seeing you!

ST. ANNA PHILOPTOCHOS CHRISTMAS APPEAL
As we celebrate the Christmas season, St. Anna Philoptochos invites you to join us in supporting local charities and our own Social Services program, whose work provides essential services to individuals and families in need. Your donation—of any amount—will make a meaningful impact this Christmas. Thank you for your generosity.

To make a donation either on-line or with a check, go to the following website for more information.

http://saintnicholas.org/philoptochos_christmas_appeal

ST. NICHOLAS BIBLE STUDY - THURSDAY MORNINGS
*NEXT BIBLE STUDY WILL BE ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 8TH

Come and see, hear and taste that the Lord is Good! St. Nicholas Bible Study continues on Thursdays at 10:00am with Fr. James in the Church Office Conference Room. Bring your Bible; coffee and refreshments provided. Theme: Reflecting on the Sunday Gospels.

CHURCH OFFICE
Please note that the church office will be closed for the New Year's holiday on Thursday and Friday, January 1st and 2nd.

However, if you have a pastoral emergency and you need to reach a priest, please call 408-246-2781. ...show less

ST. NICHOLAS NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY!
No New Year's Eve plans? Come celebrate with your St. Nicholas Family! (Payment accepted at the door)

December 31st, 7pm to 1am in the Community Center.

Join us as we welcome the New Year 2026 with faith, fellowship, and fun! Let's gather as one community to celebrate the blessings of the past year and embrace the joy ahead. Spectacular buffet style dinner and refreshments provided. Music, games, dancing and midnight toast! Bring your loved ones, your dancing shoes, and your gratitude. Let's make memories together as we step into 2026 with hope, joy, and love. Dinner: $50 adults and $30 for children under 18.

RSVP HERE: https://forms.gle/kUwFHMcNMxCmqKsj6

ST. NICHOLAS... show moreST. NICHOLAS NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY!
No New Year's Eve plans? Come celebrate with your St. Nicholas Family! (Payment accepted at the door)

December 31st, 7pm to 1am in the Community Center.

Join us as we welcome the New Year 2026 with faith, fellowship, and fun! Let's gather as one community to celebrate the blessings of the past year and embrace the joy ahead. Spectacular buffet style dinner and refreshments provided. Music, games, dancing and midnight toast! Bring your loved ones, your dancing shoes, and your gratitude. Let's make memories together as we step into 2026 with hope, joy, and love. Dinner: $50 adults and $30 for children under 18.

RSVP HERE: https://forms.gle/kUwFHMcNMxCmqKsj6

ST. NICHOLAS FAMILY EVENT - SANTA CLARA MEN'S BASKETBALL VS ST. MARY'S - SATURDAY, JAN 17TH
The GOYA, JOY, and Basketball ministries are joining forces to host an afternoon to watch Santa Clara Men's basketball take on their East Bay rivals from St. Mary's. We encourage you to join us at 2pm for pizza, salad, and refreshments and carpool to the nearby game. The game tips off at 4pm at the Santa Clara University Leavey Center. Kids will have an opportunity for on-court activities during and after the game. We hope to replicate a great time that we had last year. The cost of the game ticket is $30/person and lunch is hosted by the ministries. Contact Sofia Kotsiri (sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com), John Cocoles (jcocoles5@gmail.com) and Helene Panos (simvoulakish@gmail.com) for more information and to reserve a ticket.

YOUTH BASKETBALL - TEAM PRACTICES BEGIN IN JANUARY
The St Nicholas youth basketball program is starting team practices for the Spring '26 season. Last year we fielded 5 teams: Boys and Girls Elementary, Boys and Girls Middle School, and Boys High School with over 40 participants. Congrats to our Elementary Girls and High School Boys on winning the League Championship!

Boys Elementary (3rd-5th Grade) will practice beginning the week of January 12th, specific date and time to come.

Girls Elementary (3rd-5th Grade) and Middle School (6th-8th Grade) will practice weekly on Mondays at 6:30 beginning on January 12th

Boys Middle School (6th-8th Grade) will practice weekly on Tuesdays at 6:45 beginning on January 6th

Boys High School (9th-12th Grade) will begin practices in late January. Those wishing to participate earlier can join the MS boys practices on Tuesdays.

All new players (including siblings of returning players) MUST register here: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/128/responses/new Returning players do NOT need to re-register.

UNIFORM RETURN: If you still have your uniform from last year, we NEED them returned ASAP. Bring to practice or give them to a Coach or John Cocoles during Sunday Coffee hour. We need to know how many new uniforms we may need to buy and which sizes.

The Orthodox Youth Athletic Association is a recreational league with other Orthodox churches in the Bay Area with games typically on Sunday afternoons starting soon after FDF in February. We look forward to another fun and successful season. To register: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. If you have any questions, please contact John Cocoles at basketball@saintnicholas.org or jcocoles5@gmail.com

MERRY Christmas to all and we wish you a Blessed New Year

PAN CRETAN CRAB FEED
Join us for the Pan Cretan All-You-Can-Eat Crab Feed on Friday, January 30, 2026 — a night of great food, music, and community fun! Enjoy fresh crab, pasta, salad, and dessert in a lively atmosphere with friends and family. Full-table discounted purchases will be available starting Saturday, November 15th, and single adult tickets go on sale in December. Don’t miss one of the most anticipated events of the year — come hungry and ready for a good time! See the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin.

** Tickets may be purchased at cretancrabfeed.eventbrite.com

GOLDEN YEARS ANNUAL VALENTINE'S LUNCHEON - SAVE THE DATE!
Please join us for the annual Golden Years Seniors Valentine’s Day Luncheon on Sunday, February 8, 2026 in the Community Center immediately following the Divine Liturgy.

Menu and pricing information coming!

ADULT OPEN GYM BASKETBALL
Adult Open Gym Basketball is every Wednesday at 7:30pm in the Community Center. All parishioners (including guests) must sign up first before participating; online sign up form is at the link below. All communications will be handled through WhatsApp where there will be live updates on the day of the event; link down below to join.

Adult Open Gym sign up form: https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/118/responses/new

Adult Open Gym guidelines:

https://docs.google.com/file/d/1Pqh-9ytke7trggbRvI-t0IW4sHL22Re4/edit?usp=docslist_api&filetype=msword

Adult Open Gym WhatsApp group chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/ExKTcpbEo7oBPOR3Ssfi1P ...show less

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE BY LIVESTREAM ON YOUTUBE UNDER THE NAME: SAINT NICHOLAS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH SAN JOSE.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1x-nHP063YTTMrevkzL21w/

Thursday, January 1 - St. Basil the Great
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, January 4 - The Sunday Before Epiphany
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, January 5 - Eve of Theophany
9:00 a.m. Royal Hours
6:00 p.m. Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil, Blessing of the Water

Tuesday, January 6 - Holy Theophany
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, Blessing of the Waters

Wednesday, January 7 - Synaxis of St. John the Baptist
8:30... show moreSCHEDULE OF SERVICES

SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE BY LIVESTREAM ON YOUTUBE UNDER THE NAME: SAINT NICHOLAS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH SAN JOSE.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1x-nHP063YTTMrevkzL21w/

Thursday, January 1 - St. Basil the Great
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, January 4 - The Sunday Before Epiphany
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, January 5 - Eve of Theophany
9:00 a.m. Royal Hours
6:00 p.m. Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil, Blessing of the Water

Tuesday, January 6 - Holy Theophany
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, Blessing of the Waters

Wednesday, January 7 - Synaxis of St. John the Baptist
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, January 11 - The Sunday After Epiphany
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

LIGHT A CANDLE: https://saintnicholas.org/vigil_candle

Online Links to the Text of Church Services:

At our parish we use an online tool for all of our Liturgical services called Ages Initiatives. Please know that we always encourage participation through the praying of the services, and this online resource is the primary resource we use at the chant stand and the Altar. To access services, please check out the daily calendar available on Ages:

https://dcs.goarch.org/goa/dcs/dcs.html

Also, there is an Application that you can use and download on the Apple platform:

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/digital-chant-stand/id891132857

Please also note that you can use this resource for the services we have in our church, and that we will be using this resource as well. ...show less

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES
· New Year Start: Sunday School resumes January 11, 2026

METROPOLIS SUMMER CAMP STAFF - APPLY NOW!
Applications are now open for the 2026 Metropolis Summer Camp at St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center. This is an incredible opportunity for faithful and motivated young adults (age 19 and over) to make a meaningful impact on the lives of campers while gaining valuable leadership and teamwork experience. We’re hiring for a variety of roles, including: Leadership Team Members, Cabin Counselors, Program Staff, Photographers, Lifeguards, and Medical Staff. Apply online at www.gosfyouth.org.

CANON OF FAITH - DECEMBER 2025
Please read the Canon of Faith for December 2025 using the online link viewing:

https://indd.adobe.com/view/e4b1ef35-2b8a-4b3e-bbcf-545007a8f65a

YOUTH MINISTRIES REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Sunday School
Register here for the new year: Sunday School: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_sunday_school

Greek Folk Dance

Register for the 2025-2026 Dance program here:

Greek Folk Dance: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_greek_dance

Greek School

Our Greek School has both in-person and online classes for all ages and levels. The new 2025-2026 registration link for the Greek school is now active:

Greek School: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_greek_school

Basketball

Information and registration... show moreCANON OF FAITH - DECEMBER 2025
Please read the Canon of Faith for December 2025 using the online link viewing:

https://indd.adobe.com/view/e4b1ef35-2b8a-4b3e-bbcf-545007a8f65a

YOUTH MINISTRIES REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Sunday School
Register here for the new year: Sunday School: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_sunday_school

Greek Folk Dance

Register for the 2025-2026 Dance program here:

Greek Folk Dance: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_greek_dance

Greek School

Our Greek School has both in-person and online classes for all ages and levels. The new 2025-2026 registration link for the Greek school is now active:

Greek School: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_greek_school

Basketball

Information and registration here: Basketball: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_basketball

Altar Servers:

Any young men over the age of 7 and interested in serving the altar are invited to join one of our Altar Groups for the next ecclesiastical year.

Altar Servers: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_altar_servers

GOYA

GOYA is a ministry for children from 6th - 12th grades. We meet every 2nd Sunday of the month and have social events throughout the year, as well as sessions and retreats. For more information please visit our site: GOYA: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_goya

JOY/HOPE

JOY/HOPE is a ministry for children from Kindergarten to 5th Grade and open to all. We meet every 3rd Tuesday of the Month in the evening at 7:00pm. For more information visit our site:

JOY/ HOPE: https://saintnicholas.org/ministry_joy_hope ...show less

Matins Gospel Reading
Eighth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 20:11-18

At that time, Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb, and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus has lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?" She said to them, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him." Saying this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom do you seek?" Supposing Him to be the gardener, she said to Him, "Sir, if you have carried Him away, tell me where you have laid... show moreMatins Gospel Reading
Eighth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from John 20:11-18

At that time, Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb, and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus has lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?" She said to them, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him." Saying this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom do you seek?" Supposing Him to be the gardener, she said to Him, "Sir, if you have carried Him away, tell me where you have laid Him, and I will take Him away." Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned and said to Him in Hebrew, "Rabboni," which means Teacher. Jesus said to her, "Do not touch Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, I am ascending to My Father and your Father, to My God and your God." Mary Magdalene went and said to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord," and she told them that He had said these things to her.

Eighth Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 20:11-18

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, Μαρία εἱστήκει πρὸς τὸ μνημεῖον κλαίουσα ἔξω· ὡς οὖν ἔκλαιε, παρέκυψεν εἰς τὸ μνημεῖον, καὶ θεωρεῖ δύο ἀγγέλους ἐν λευκοῖς καθεζομένους, ἕνα πρὸς τῇ κεφαλῇ, καὶ ἕνα πρὸς τοῖς ποσίν, ὅπου ἔκειτο τὸ σῶμα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ, καὶ λέγουσιν αὐτῇ ἐκεῖνοι· Γύναι, τί κλαίεις; λέγει αὐτοῖς· Ὅτι ᾖραν τὸν Κύριόν μου, καὶ οὐκ οἶδα ποῦ ἔθηκαν αὐτόν· καὶ ταῦτα εἰποῦσα ἐστράφη εἰς τὰ ὀπίσω, καὶ θεωρεῖ τὸν Ἰησοῦν ἑστῶτα, καὶ οὐκ ᾒδει ὅτι Ἰησοῦς ἐστι. Λέγει αὐτῇ ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Γύναι, τί κλαίεις; τίνα ζητεῖς; ἐκείνη δοκοῦσα ὅτι ὁ κηπουρὸς ἐστι, λέγει αὐτῷ· Κύριε, εἰ σὺ ἐβάστασας αὐτόν, εἰπέ μοι ποῦ αὐτὸν ἔθηκας, κᾀγὼ αὐτὸν ἀρῶ· λέγει αὐτῇ ὁ Ἰησοῦς· Μαρία· στραφεῖσα ἐκείνη λέγει αὐτῷ· Ῥαββουνί· ὃ λέγεται Διδάσκαλε· λέγει αὐτῇ ὁ Ἰησοῦς, Μή μου ἃπτου· οὔπω γὰρ ἀναβέβηκα πρὸς τὸν πατέρα μου, πορεύου δὲ πρὸς τοὺς ἀδελφούς μου, καὶ εἰπὲ αὐτοῖς· Ἀναβαίνω πρὸς τὸν πατέρα μου καὶ πατέρα ὑμῶν, καὶ Θεόν μου καὶ Θεὸν ὑμῶν· ἔρχεται Μαρία ἡ Μαγδαληνὴ ἀπαγγέλλουσα τοῖς μαθηταῖς ὅτι ἑώρακε τὸν Κύριον· καὶ ταῦτα εἶπεν αὐτῇ.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Plagal 2nd Mode. Psalm 27.9,1.
O Lord, save your people and bless your inheritance.
Verse: To you, O Lord, I have cried, O my God.

The reading is from St. Paul's Second Letter to Timothy 4:5-8.

TIMOTHY, my son, always be steady, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfil your ministry.

For I am already on the point of being sacrificed; the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.

Προκείμενον. Plagal 2nd Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 27.9,1.
Σῶσον, Κύριε τὸν λαὸν σου καὶ εὐλόγησον τὴν κληρονομίαν σου.
Στίχ. Πρὸς σἐ, Κύριε, κεκράξομαι ὁ Θεός μου.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Τιμόθεον β' 4:5-8.

Τέκνον Τιμόθεε, νῆφε ἐν πᾶσιν, κακοπάθησον, ἔργον ποίησον εὐαγγελιστοῦ, τὴν διακονίαν σου πληροφόρησον. Ἐγὼ γὰρ ἤδη σπένδομαι, καὶ ὁ καιρὸς τῆς ἐμῆς ἀναλύσεως ἐφέστηκεν. Τὸν ἀγῶνα τὸν καλὸν ἠγώνισμαι, τὸν δρόμον τετέλεκα, τὴν πίστιν τετήρηκα· λοιπόν, ἀπόκειταί μοι ὁ τῆς δικαιοσύνης στέφανος, ὃν ἀποδώσει μοι ὁ κύριος ἐν ἐκείνῃ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ, ὁ δίκαιος κριτής· οὐ μόνον δὲ ἐμοί, ἀλλὰ καὶ πάσιν τοῖς ἠγαπηκόσιν τὴν ἐπιφάνειαν αὐτοῦ.

Gospel Reading
Sunday before Epiphany
The Reading is from Mark 1:1-8

The beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the prophets, 'Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who shall prepare your way; the voice of one crying in the wilderness: prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.' John was baptizing in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And there went out to him all the country of Judea, and all the people of Jerusalem; and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel's hair, and had a leather girdle around his waist, and ate locusts and wild honey. And he preached, saying, "After me comes he who is mightier than I, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."

Sunday before Epiphany
Κατὰ Μᾶρκον 1:1-8

᾿Αρχὴ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ᾿Ιησοῦ Χριστοῦ, υἱοῦ τοῦ Θεοῦ. ῾Ως γέγραπται ἐν τοῖς προφήταις, ἰδοὺ ἐγὼ ἀποστέλλω τὸν ἄγγελόν μου πρὸ προσώπου σου, ὃς κατασκευάσει τὴν ὁδόν σου ἔμπροσθέν σου· φωνὴ βοῶντος ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ, ἑτοιμάσατε τὴν ὁδὸν Κυρίου, εὐθείας ποιεῖτε τὰς τρίβους αὐτοῦ, ἐγένετο ᾿Ιωάννης βαπτίζων ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ καὶ κηρύσσων βάπτισμα μετανοίας εἰς ἄφεσιν ἁμαρτιῶν. Καὶ ἐξεπορεύετο πρὸς αὐτὸν πᾶσα ἡ ᾿Ιουδαία χώρα καὶ οἱ ῾Ιεροσολυμῖται, καὶ ἐβαπτίζοντο πάντες ἐν τῷ ᾿Ιορδάνῃ ποταμῷ ὑπ᾿ αὐτοῦ ἐξομολογούμενοι τὰς ἁμαρτίας αὐτῶν. Ἦν δὲ ὁ ᾿Ιωάννης ἐνδεδυμένος τρίχας καμήλου καὶ ζώνην δερματίνην περὶ τὴν ὀσφὺν αὐτοῦ, καὶ ἐσθίων ἀκρίδας καὶ μέλι ἄγριον. Καὶ ἐκήρυσσε λέγων· ἔρχεται ὁ ἰσχυρότερός μου ὀπίσω μου, οὗ οὐκ εἰμὶ ἱκανὸς κύψας λῦσαι τὸν ἱμάντα τῶν ὑποδημάτων αὐτοῦ· ἐγὼ μὲν ἐβάπτισα ὑμᾶς ἐν ὕδατι, αὐτὸς δὲ βαπτίσει ὑμᾶς ἐν Πνεύματι ῾Αγίῳ. ...show less

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 1st Mode
Let us worship the Word who is unoriginate * with the Father and the Spirit, and from a Virgin was born * for our salvation, O believers, and let us sing His praise. * For in His goodness He was pleased * to ascend the Cross in the flesh, and to undergo death, * and to raise up those who had died, * by His glorious Resurrection.

Τὸν συνάναρχον Λόγον Πατρὶ καὶ Πνεύματι, τὸν ἐκ Παρθένου τεχθέντα εἰς σωτηρίαν ἡμῶν, ἀνυμνήσωμεν πιστοὶ καὶ προσκυνήσωμεν, ὅτι ηὐδόκησε σαρκί, ἀνελθεῖν ἐν τῷ σταυρῷ, καὶ θάνατον ὑπομεῖναι,... show moreResurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 1st Mode
Let us worship the Word who is unoriginate * with the Father and the Spirit, and from a Virgin was born * for our salvation, O believers, and let us sing His praise. * For in His goodness He was pleased * to ascend the Cross in the flesh, and to undergo death, * and to raise up those who had died, * by His glorious Resurrection.

Τὸν συνάναρχον Λόγον Πατρὶ καὶ Πνεύματι, τὸν ἐκ Παρθένου τεχθέντα εἰς σωτηρίαν ἡμῶν, ἀνυμνήσωμεν πιστοὶ καὶ προσκυνήσωμεν, ὅτι ηὐδόκησε σαρκί, ἀνελθεῖν ἐν τῷ σταυρῷ, καὶ θάνατον ὑπομεῖναι, καὶ ἐγεῖραι τοὺς τεθνεῶτας, ἐν τῇ ἐνδόξῳ Ἀναστάσει αὐτοῦ.

Apolytikion for Forefeast of Theophany in the 4th Mode
Be thou ready, Zabulon; prepare thyself, O Nephthalim. River Jordan, stay thy course and skip for gladness to receive the Sovereign Master, Who cometh now to be baptized. O Adam, be thou glad with our first mother, Eve; hide not as ye did of old in Paradise. Seeing you naked, He hath appeared now to clothe you in the first robe again. Christ hath appeared, for He truly willeth to renew all creation.

Ἑτοιμάζου Ζαβουλῶν, καὶ εὐτρεπίζου Νεφθαλείμ. Ἰορδάνη ποταμέ, στήθι ὑπόδεξαι σκιρτῶν, τοῦ βαπτισθῆναι ἐρχόμενον τὸν Δεσπότην. Ἀγάλλου ὁ Ἀδὰμ σὺν τὴ Προμήτορι, μὴ κρύπτετε ἑαυτούς, ὡς ἐν Παραδείσῳ τὸ πρίν, καὶ γὰρ γυμνοὺς ἰδὼν ὑμᾶς ἐπέφανεν, ἵνα ἐνδύσῃ τὴν πρώτην στολήν, Χριστὸς ἐφάνη, τὴν πᾶσαν κτίσιν, θέλων ἀνακαινίσαι.

Apolytikion of Saint Nicholas in the 1st Mode
An example of the faith and a life of humility, as a teacher of self-control you did inspire and lead your flock, and through the truthfulness of your deeds, were exalted by greatness through your humility, uplifting all, and by poverty gaining strength. Father and hierarch Saint Nicholas, intercede with Christ our God, that our souls may be saved.

Κανόνα πίστεως καί εικόνα πραότητος, εγκρατείας Διδάσκαλον, ανέδειξέ σε τή ποίμνη σου, η τών πραγμάτων αλήθεια, διά τούτο εκτήσω τή ταπεινώσει τά υψηλά, τή πτωχεία τά πλούσια, Πάτερ Ιεράρχα Νικόλαε, πρέσβευε Χριστώ τώ Θεώ, σωθήναι τάς ψυχάς ημών.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 4th Mode
In the running waters of the Jordan River, on this day the Lord of all crieth to John: Be not afraid and hesitate not to baptize Me, for I am come to save Adam, the first-formed man.

Ἐν τοῖς ῥείθροις σήμερον τοῦ Ἰορδάνου, γεγονῶς ὁ Κύριος, τῶ Ἰωάννη ἐκβοᾷ. Μὴ δειλιάσης βαπτίσαι με, σῶσαι γὰρ ἥκω, Ἀδὰμ τὸν πρωτόπλαστον.
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