April 26

Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women

About the beginning of His thirty-second year, when the Lord Jesus was going throughout Galilee, preaching and working miracles, many women who had received of His beneficence left their own homeland and from then on followed after Him.

They ministered unto Him out of their own possessions, even until His crucifixion and entombment; and afterwards, neither losing faith in Him after His death, nor fearing the wrath of the Jewish rulers, they came to the sepulchre, bearing the myrrh-oils they had prepared to annoint His body.

It is because of the myrrh-oils, that these God-loving women brought to the tomb of Jesus that they are called the Myrrh-bearers. Of those whose names are known are... show moreApril 26

Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women

About the beginning of His thirty-second year, when the Lord Jesus was going throughout Galilee, preaching and working miracles, many women who had received of His beneficence left their own homeland and from then on followed after Him.

They ministered unto Him out of their own possessions, even until His crucifixion and entombment; and afterwards, neither losing faith in Him after His death, nor fearing the wrath of the Jewish rulers, they came to the sepulchre, bearing the myrrh-oils they had prepared to annoint His body.

It is because of the myrrh-oils, that these God-loving women brought to the tomb of Jesus that they are called the Myrrh-bearers. Of those whose names are known are the following: first of all, the most holy Virgin Mary, who in Matthew 27:56 and Mark 15:40 is called "the mother of James and Joses" (these are the sons of Joseph by a previous marriage, and she was therefore their step-mother); Mary Magdalene (celebrated July 22); Mary, the wife of Clopas; Joanna, wife of Chouza, a steward of Herod Antipas; Salome, the mother of the sons of Zebedee, Mary and Martha, the sisters of Lazarus; and Susanna. As for the names of the rest of them, the evangelists have kept silence (Matt 27:55-56; 28:1-10. Mark 15:40-41. Luke 8:1-3; 23:55-24:11, 22-24. John 19:25; 20:11-18. Acts 1:14).

Together with them we celebrate also the secret disciples of the Saviour, Joseph and Nicodemus. Of these, Nicodemus was probably a Jerusalemite, a prominent leader among the Jews and of the order of the Pharisees, learned in the Law and instructed in the Holy Scriptures. He had believed in Christ when, at the beginning of our Saviour's preaching of salvation, he came to Him by night. Furthermore, he brought some one hundred pounds of myrrh-oils and an aromatic mixture of aloes and spices out of reverence and love for the divine Teacher (John 19:39). Joseph, who was from the city of Arimathea, was a wealthy and noble man, and one of the counsellors who were in Jerusalem. He went boldly unto Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus, and together with Nicodemus he gave Him burial. Since time did not permit the preparation of another tomb, he placed the Lord's body in his own tomb which was hewn out of rock, as the Evangelist says (Matt. 27:60). ...show less

April 26, 2026

"He has risen, He is not here"

The crucifixion and burial of Jesus were humiliating events, and today’s Gospel reading emphasizes two features of this humiliation. For ancient Jews, the two most important features of a burial were (1) burial with one’s ancestors and (2) a parade of public mourners. Jesus received neither. Burial with one’s ancestors was especially important. When people died in the Old Testament, their burial was described with the phrase, “He slept and was gathered to his fathers” (Genesis 25:8).

This phrase literally means that the bones of the deceased were placed in a family tomb filled with the bones of one’s ancestors. People who betrayed the ancient Israelites were often threatened... show moreApril 26, 2026

"He has risen, He is not here"

The crucifixion and burial of Jesus were humiliating events, and today’s Gospel reading emphasizes two features of this humiliation. For ancient Jews, the two most important features of a burial were (1) burial with one’s ancestors and (2) a parade of public mourners. Jesus received neither. Burial with one’s ancestors was especially important. When people died in the Old Testament, their burial was described with the phrase, “He slept and was gathered to his fathers” (Genesis 25:8).

This phrase literally means that the bones of the deceased were placed in a family tomb filled with the bones of one’s ancestors. People who betrayed the ancient Israelites were often threatened with the possibility that they would not be given such a burial (1 Kings 13:21; Jer 22:18). Likewise, public mourning of the dead was an essential way to heal the wound of loss. We see parades of mourning when the Widow of Nain buries her son (Luke 7:12) or when the sisters of Lazarus mourn their brother (John 11). Such public mourning demonstrated a person’s importance.

The greater the parade of mourners, the greater a person’s fame. Jesus is not mourned at all. The women disciples in today’s Gospel find his tomb and go to anoint his body. But there is no parade of mourners. Jesus, therefore, is cut off from all the normal rituals of burial. And this is wholly as it should be.

The bones of Jesus were not mingled with the dead bones of his earthly ancestors, because his body would not be remaining in the tomb. And his death was not the cause for weeks of public mourning, because his body would not be remaining in the tomb. His executioners meant to see him buried in shame, but they paradoxically affirmed that his tomb was not the end.

https://bulletinbuilder.org/diakonia-newsletter/2026-04-26/ ...show less

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

SOPHOCLES (STEVE) BARAS (1 YR), husband of Maria Baras, father of Angela and Dionysios

SPIROS XENOS (ANNUAL), brother of Maria Baras

NICHOLAOS STAVROULAKIS (2 YRS), husband of Sofia Perivoliotis, step-father of Georgia Golfinopoulos, grandfather of Katerina, Vasili, and Sofia

VASILIOS GOLFINOPOULOS (33 YRS), husband of Roula Golfinopoulos, father of Demetri and Eleni Golfinopoulos, grandfather of Katerina, Vasili, and Sofia

May their memory be eternal.

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Joanne Cox, Mimi Mengisteab, Stacy Panayotopoulos, Mary Perlegos, and Dimitra Tsigaris in the Small... show moreSUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

SOPHOCLES (STEVE) BARAS (1 YR), husband of Maria Baras, father of Angela and Dionysios

SPIROS XENOS (ANNUAL), brother of Maria Baras

NICHOLAOS STAVROULAKIS (2 YRS), husband of Sofia Perivoliotis, step-father of Georgia Golfinopoulos, grandfather of Katerina, Vasili, and Sofia

VASILIOS GOLFINOPOULOS (33 YRS), husband of Roula Golfinopoulos, father of Demetri and Eleni Golfinopoulos, grandfather of Katerina, Vasili, and Sofia

May their memory be eternal.

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Joanne Cox, Mimi Mengisteab, Stacy Panayotopoulos, Mary Perlegos, and Dimitra Tsigaris 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 May 3: GOYA

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

GOYA
GOYA meeting this Sunday, April 26th 11:30am-12:15pm in Room 11A. We will discuss end of school year activities and enjoy some time together.

Please reach out to Eva Vathis at eperakis1@aol.com with any questions.

SUNDAY SCHOOL LENTEN PROJECT 2026 BENEFITING SACRED HEART
Please support the 2026 Sunday School Lenten Alms Project to benefit Sacred Heart Community through the purchase of new undergarments for our brethen who are in most need. You can participate by purchasing items the Sunday School Amazon Wish List or contributing cash during Coffee Hour, now through April 29, 2026.

ALL GRADUATING SENIORS - HIGH SCHOOL, COLLEGE, OR TRADE SCHOOL
Graduation is an important event for you and your child, and it is equally important... show moreGOYA
GOYA meeting this Sunday, April 26th 11:30am-12:15pm in Room 11A. We will discuss end of school year activities and enjoy some time together.

Please reach out to Eva Vathis at eperakis1@aol.com with any questions.

SUNDAY SCHOOL LENTEN PROJECT 2026 BENEFITING SACRED HEART
Please support the 2026 Sunday School Lenten Alms Project to benefit Sacred Heart Community through the purchase of new undergarments for our brethen who are in most need. You can participate by purchasing items the Sunday School Amazon Wish List or contributing cash during Coffee Hour, now through April 29, 2026.

ALL GRADUATING SENIORS - HIGH SCHOOL, COLLEGE, OR TRADE SCHOOL
Graduation is an important event for you and your child, and it is equally important to us. We want to honor and congratulate the Class of 2026 by recognizing them in the June Canon of Faith. Please submit the following information by Friday, May 15th:

1. Student’s name.
2. Parents'/guardian names.
3. Student’s high school/college/trade school name of which graduating from.
4. Name of college or university student planning to attend.
5. Desired or actual major.
6. If a college degree was earned, please add if a BS, BA, Masters, or PhD
7. Phone number in case we have questions

8. For high school graduates only: please inlcude 2 photos: a baby photo and a recent photo for the collage in the Canon.

Deadline: Friday, May 15th. All content needs to be submitted to churchoffice@saintnicholas.org. If you have any questions, please call the church office at 408-246-2770

ADD ST. NICHOLAS WEBSITE TO YOUR PHONE'S HOME SCREEN
For quicker and easier access, you can add our website right to your phone’s home screen, just like an app. It only takes a few seconds. Once added, simply tap the icon for instant access to our schedule, bulletins, events, posts and more. No more searching required!

Follow the steps on https://saintnicholas.org/phone_app_shortcut

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

2026 FESTIVAL ADS
As in years past, to assist in offsetting our costs we are soliciting advertising from businesses and our own parishioners. These ads are seen by as many as 20,000 Festival attendees, which is great visibility for your business, as well as helping to make our Greek Festival a success! If you wish, as an individual, to give a shout-out to the festival, you can do that too!

Prices for all color ads:

Interior Full page.......................................$1,000

Half Page...................................................$600

Please call or email Elias Papas at eliaspapas2022@gmail.com (408-497-4522) or Sofia Kotsiri at sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com (919-696-7398) to reserve your ad.

Deadline for submissions is May 15, 2026.


FESTIVAL DONATIONS
The 2026 Greek Festival is almost here! To maximize our overall success while taking into account increased labor and supply costs, please consider making a contribution to one of the following items listed. Any contribution is welcome, whether it be for an entire item or a partial donation.

Please make your checks payable to Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and put the item name in the memo or comments section. Any amount is appreciated! To give online, click here: https://saintnicholas.org/donate. Select "Festival" in the Fund drop-down menu and put the item name in the memo line.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference! If you would like further help, please contact:

• Nick Pagonis at (408) 348‑5026 or nickjpagonis@gmail.com

• Nick Taptelis at (650) 703‑7525 or ntaptelis@gmail.com

• Nektarios Matheou at (408) 506‑8565 or ngmatheou@gmail.com

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has already contributed and offered their support. Your generosity is deeply appreciated.

Food Items Total Cost Donation (Pledge) Amount Left % Fullfilled
Whole Lamb (2) $500 $500 $0 100%
1,200lbs of Flour $700 $700 0%
Greek Coffee $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 0%
Olives $1,000 $1,000 0%
Eggs $1,500 $1,500 0%
1,300lbs of Sugar $1,300 $1,300 0%
Frappe $1,500 $1,500 0%
Olive Oil $2,000 $2,000 $0 100%
Water/Sparkling Water $2,000 $2,000 0%
Soft Drinks $2,000 $2,000 0%
Loux $2,000 $2,000 0%
Feta $2,500 $2,500 0%
Filo $2,500 $2,500 0%
Pita $2,500 $2,500 0%
French Fries $2,500 $2,500 0%
Ground Meat $5,000 $5,000 0%
Calamari $5,000 $5,000 0%
Butter $6,000 $6,000 0%
Gyro Meat $7,000 $7,000 $0 100%
Beer $5,000 $5,000 0%
Meze Bar $10,000 $10,000 0%
White Wine $6,000 $6,000 0%
Red Wine $6,000 $6,000 0%
Metaxa $5,000 $5,000 0%
Ouzo $2,000 $2,000 0%
Tsikoudia $2,000 $2,000 0%
Ice Cream $2,000 $2,000 0%
Lamb Chops $30,000 $10,000 $20,000 33%
First Aid $2,500 $2,500 0%
Police $12,000 $12,000 0%
Security $5,000 $5,000 0%
Entertainment $6,000 $6,000 0%
Point of Sale Terminals $17,000 $17,000 0%
Shuttles $15,000 $15,000 0%
Advertisement $15,000 $15,000 0%
New Equipment $10,000 $5,000 $5,000 50%
Labor $10,000 $5,000 $5,000 50%
Tent Rentals $29,000 $29,000 0%

TOTAL $238,000 $30,500 $208,500 12%

ST. NICHOLAS BASKETBALL PROGRAM - ST. NICHOLAS NABS TWO WINS AFTER EASTER
The High School Boys won a big game against fellow unbeaten Ascension and are on the doorstep of the regular season top seed. The Middle School boys got ahead to capture a comfortable win against Holy Cross2. Two games left before the playoffs with SJ travelling this weekend and 7 games in the Community Center hosted between Fri May 1st and Sunday May 3rd

This week is Sun Apr 26th

Girls Elementary Last week: St. Nick 18 –Ascension 23 Joanna with 10 points and Paris pitching in 6. Exciting game with the girls leading much of the game.

This week: vs Holy Cross, 2pm @ Belmont Next week: vs Holy Cross, 2pm @ San Jose

Girls Middle School Last week: St. Nich 10 – Holy Cross 32 Despite the score, a well played game with good ball movement and few turnovers. Georgia and Eleni with 4 pts each.

This week: vs Holy Cross, 3pm @ Belmont Next week: vs Holy Cross, 3pm @ San Jose

Boys Elementary Last week: St. Nick 20 – Holy Cross 31 Shots didn’t drop and Holy Cross pulled away. Alecco with tremendous defense and numerous steals.

This week: game rescheduled Next week: vs St. Gregory, 4pm and 6pm @ San Jose (double header)

Boys Middle School Last week : St. Nick 39 – Holy Cross2 24 Great bounce back win dominating start to finish.

This week: game rescheduled Next week: vs St. Gregory, 6:30 Fri 5/1 @ San Jose and vs Holy Cross1, 5pm Sun 5/3 @ San Jose

Boys High School Last week: St. Nick 61 – Ascension 51 Bobby V with a late 3 to seal the victory and stay undefeated.

This week: game rescheduled Next week: vs St. Gregory, 7:30 Fri 5/1 @ San Jose and vs Holy Cross, 3pm Sun 5/3 @ San Jose ...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, April 26 — Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, May 3 — Sunday of the Paralytic
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES
SUNDAY, APRIL 26: Sunday School.

SUNDAY, MAY 3: Sunday School.

2026 ST. NICHOLAS AND PHILOPTOCHOS SCHOLARSHIPS
We are pleased to announce that scholarship applications for our graduating high school seniors are now available. Both the Sunday School Scholarship and the Philoptochos Scholarship may be picked up through the Church Office or the Sunday School Office.

Submission Deadline: Sunday, May 3rd at 5:00 PM

All applications must be submitted by the deadline in order to be considered. Return applications to the Church Office. We encourage all eligible seniors to apply. If you have any questions, please reach out to Vicki Ryan or Laurie Sahines.

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 commitment electronically, please visit our online stewardship: https://saintnicholas.org/stewardship

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

Matins Gospel Reading
Fourth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Luke 24:1-12

On the first day of the week at early dawn, the women went to the tomb, taking spices, which they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel; and as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, "Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how He told you, while He was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and on the third day rise." And they... show moreMatins Gospel Reading
Fourth Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Luke 24:1-12

On the first day of the week at early dawn, the women went to the tomb, taking spices, which they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel; and as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, "Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how He told you, while He was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and on the third day rise." And they remembered His words and returning from the tomb they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and the other women with them who told this to the Apostles; but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home wondering at what had happened.

Fourth Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Λουκᾶν 24:1-12

Τῇ μιᾷ τῶν Σαββάτων, ὄρθρου βαθέος ἦλθον ἐπὶ τὸ μνῆμα, φέρουσαι ἃ ἡτοίμασαν ἀρώματα, καί τινες σὺν αὐταῖς. Εὗρον δὲ τὸν λίθον ἀποκεκυλισμένον ἀπὸ τοῦ μνημείου, καὶ εἰσελθοῦσαι οὐχ εὗρον τὸ σῶμα τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ. Καὶ ἐγένετο ἐν τῷ διαπορεῖσθαι αὐτὰς περὶ τούτου, καὶ Ἰδού, δύο ἄνδρες ἐπέστησαν αὐταῖς ἐν ἐσθήσεσιν ἀστραπτούσαις· ἐμφόβων δὲ γενομένων αὐτῶν καὶ κλινουσῶν τὰ πρόσωπον εἰς τὴν γῆν, εἶπον πρὸς αὐτάς· Τί ζητεῖτε τὸν ζῶντα μετὰ τῶν νεκρῶν; οὐκ ἔστιν ᾧδε, ἀλλ' ἠγέρθη. Μνήσθητε ὡς ἐλάλησεν ὑμῖν, ἔτι ὢν ἐν τῇ Γαλιλαίᾳ, λέγων, ὅτι δεῖ τὸν υἱὸν τοῦ ἀνθρώπου παραδοθῆναι εἰς χεῖρας ἀνθρώπων ἁμαρτωλῶν, καὶ σταυρωθῆναι, καὶ τῇ τρίτῃ ἡμέρᾳ ἀναστῆναι. Καὶ ἐμνήσθησαν τῶν ῥημάτων αὐτοῦ, καὶ ὑποστρέψασαι ἀπὸ τοῦ μνημείου, ἀπήγγειλαν ταῦτα πάντα τοῖς ἕνδεκα καὶ πᾶσι τοῖς λοιποῖς. Ἦσαν δὲ ἡ Μαγδαληνὴ Μαρία καὶ Ἰωάννα καὶ Μαρία Ἰακώβου, καὶ αἱ λοιπαὶ σὺν αὐταῖς, αἳ ἔλεγον πρὸς τοὺς ἀποστόλους ταῦτα. Καὶ ἐφάνησαν ἐνώπιον αὐτῶν ὡσεὶ λῆρος τὰ ῥήματα αὐτῶν, καὶ ἠπίστουν αὐταῖς, ὁ δὲ Πέτρος ἀναστὰς ἔδραμεν ἐπὶ τὸ μνημεῖον, καὶ παρακύψας βλέπει τὰ ὀθόνια κείμενα μόνα, καὶ ἀπῆλθε, πρὸς ἑαυτόν θαυμάζων τὸ γεγονός.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. 2nd Mode. Psalm 117.14,18.
The Lord is my strength and my song.
Verse: The Lord has chastened me sorely.

The reading is from Acts of the Apostles 6:1-7.

In those days, when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists murmured against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the body of the disciples and said, "it is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brethren, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word." And what they said pleased the whole multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochoros, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaos, a proselyte of Antioch. These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands upon them. And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Προκείμενον. 2nd Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 117.14,18.
Ἰσχύς μου καὶ ὕμνησίς μου ὁ Κύριος.
Στίχ. Παιδεύων ἐπαίδευσέ με ὁ Κύριος.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πράξεις Ἀποστόλων 6:1-7.

Ἐν ταῖς ἡμεραῖς ἐκείναις, πληθυνόντων τῶν μαθητῶν, ἐγένετο γογγυσμὸς τῶν Ἑλληνιστῶν πρὸς τοὺς Ἑβραίους, ὅτι παρεθεωροῦντο ἐν τῇ διακονίᾳ τῇ καθημερινῇ αἱ χῆραι αὐτῶν. Προσκαλεσάμενοι δὲ οἱ δώδεκα τὸ πλῆθος τῶν μαθητῶν, εἶπον, Οὐκ ἀρεστόν ἐστιν ἡμᾶς, καταλείψαντας τὸν λόγον τοῦ θεοῦ, διακονεῖν τραπέζαις. Ἐπισκέψασθε οὖν, ἀδελφοί, ἄνδρας ἐξ ὑμῶν μαρτυρουμένους ἑπτά, πλήρεις πνεύματος ἁγίου καὶ σοφίας, οὓς καταστήσωμεν ἐπὶ τῆς χρείας ταύτης. Ἡμεῖς δὲ τῇ προσευχῇ καὶ τῇ διακονίᾳ τοῦ λόγου προσκαρτερήσομεν. Καὶ ἤρεσεν ὁ λόγος ἐνώπιον παντὸς τοῦ πλήθους· καὶ ἐξελέξαντο Στέφανον, ἄνδρα πλήρης πίστεως καὶ πνεύματος ἁγίου, καὶ Φίλιππον, καὶ Πρόχορον, καὶ Νικάνορα, καὶ Τίμωνα, καὶ Παρμενᾶν, καὶ Νικόλαον προσήλυτον Ἀντιοχέα, οὓς ἔστησαν ἐνώπιον τῶν ἀποστόλων· καὶ προσευξάμενοι ἐπέθηκαν αὐτοῖς τὰς χεῖρας. Καὶ ὁ λόγος τοῦ θεοῦ ηὔξανεν, καὶ ἐπληθύνετο ὁ ἀριθμὸς τῶν μαθητῶν ἐν Ἱερουσαλὴμ σφόδρα, πολύς τε ὄχλος τῶν ἱερέων ὑπήκουον τῇ πίστει.

Gospel Reading
Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women
The Reading is from Mark 15:43-47; 16:1-8

At that time, Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself looking for the kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus. And Pilate wondered if he were already dead; and summoning the centurion, he asked him whether he was already dead. And when he learned from the centurion that he was dead, he granted the body to Joseph. And he bought a linen shroud, and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen shroud, and laid him in a tomb which had been hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a stone against the door of the tomb. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where he was laid.

And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. And very early on the first day of the week they went to the tomb when the sun had risen. And they were saying to one another, "Who will roll away the stone for us from the door of the tomb?" And looking up, they saw that the stone was rolled back; for it was very large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe; and they were amazed. And he said to them, "Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen, he is not here; see the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him, as he told you." And they went out and fled from the tomb; for trembling and astonishment had come upon them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women
Κατὰ Μᾶρκον 15:43-47, 16:1-8

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, ἐλθὼν Ἰωσὴφ ὁ ἀπὸ Ἀριμαθαίας, εὐσχήμων βουλευτής, ὃς καὶ αὐτὸς ἦν προσδεχόμενος τὴν βασιλείαν τοῦ Θεοῦ, τολμήσας εἰσῆλθε πρὸς Πιλᾶτον καὶ ᾐτήσατο τὸ σῶμα τοῦ Ἰησοῦ. Ὁ δὲ Πιλᾶτος ἐθαύμασεν εἰ ἤδη τέθνηκε, καὶ προσκαλεσάμενος τὸν κεντυρίωνα ἐπηρώτησεν αὐτὸν εἰ πάλαι ἀπέθανε· καὶ γνοὺς ἀπὸ τοῦ κεντυρίωνος ἐδωρήσατο τὸ σῶμα τῷ Ἰωσήφ. Καὶ ἀγοράσας σινδόνα καὶ καθελὼν αὐτὸν ἐνείλησε τῇ σινδόνι καὶ κατέθηκεν αὐτὸν ἐν μνημείῳ, ὃ ἦν λελατομημένον ἐκ πέτρας, καὶ προσεκύλισε λίθον ἐπὶ τὴν θύραν τοῦ μνημείου. Ἡ δὲ Μαρία ἡ Μαγδαληνὴ καὶ Μαρία Ἰωσῆ ἐθεώρουν ποῦ τίθεται. Καὶ διαγενομένου τοῦ σαββάτου Μαρία ἡ Μαγδαληνὴ καὶ Μαρία ἡ τοῦ Ἰακώβου καὶ Σαλώμη ἠγόρασαν ἀρώματα ἵνα ἐλθοῦσαι ἀλείψωσιν αὐτόν. Καὶ λίαν πρωῒ τῆς μιᾶς σαββάτων ἔρχονται ἐπὶ τὸ μνημεῖον, ἀνατείλαντος τοῦ ἡλίου. Καὶ ἔλεγον πρὸς ἑαυτάς· Τίς ἀποκυλίσει ἡμῖν τὸν λίθον ἐκ τῆς θύρας τοῦ μνημείου; Καὶ ἀναβλέψασαι θεωροῦσιν ὅτι ἀποκεκύλισται ὁ λίθος· ἦν γὰρ μέγας σφόδρα. Καὶ εἰσελθοῦσαι εἰς τὸ μνημεῖον εἶδον νεανίσκον καθήμενον ἐν τοῖς δεξιοῖς, περιβεβλημένον στολὴν λευκήν, καὶ ἐξεθαμβήθησαν. Ὁ δὲ λέγει αὐταῖς· μὴ ἐκθαμβεῖσθε· Ἰησοῦν ζητεῖτε τὸν Ναζαρηνὸν τὸν ἐσταυρωμένον· ἠγέρθη, οὐκ ἔστιν ὧδε· ἴδε ὁ τόπος ὅπου ἔθηκαν αὐτόν. Ἀλλ᾿ ὑπάγετε εἴπατε τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ καὶ τῷ Πέτρῳ ὅτι προάγει ὑμᾶς εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν· ἐκεῖ αὐτὸν ὄψεσθε, καθὼς εἶπεν ὑμῖν. Καὶ ἐξελθοῦσαι ἔφυγον ἀπὸ τοῦ μνημείου· εἶχε δὲ αὐτὰς τρόμος καὶ ἔκστασις, καὶ οὐδενὶ οὐδὲν εἶπον· ἐφοβοῦντο γάρ. ...show less

Apolytikion of Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal 1st Mode
Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life.

Χριστός ἀνέστη ἐκ νεκρῶν, θανάτῳ θάνατον πατήσας, καί τοῖς ἐν τοῖς μνήμασι ζωήν χαρισάμενος.

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the 2nd Mode
When You descended unto death, O Lord who yourself are immortal Life, then did You mortify Hades by the lightning flash of Your Divinity. Also when You raised the dead from the netherworld, all the Powers of the heavens were crying out: O Giver of life, Christ our God, glory be to You.

Ὅτε κατῆλθες πρὸς τὸν θάνατον,... show moreApolytikion of Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal 1st Mode
Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life.

Χριστός ἀνέστη ἐκ νεκρῶν, θανάτῳ θάνατον πατήσας, καί τοῖς ἐν τοῖς μνήμασι ζωήν χαρισάμενος.

Resurrectional Apolytikion in the 2nd Mode
When You descended unto death, O Lord who yourself are immortal Life, then did You mortify Hades by the lightning flash of Your Divinity. Also when You raised the dead from the netherworld, all the Powers of the heavens were crying out: O Giver of life, Christ our God, glory be to You.

Ὅτε κατῆλθες πρὸς τὸν θάνατον, ἡ Ζωὴ ἡ ἀθάνατος, τότε τὸν ᾅδην ἐνέκρωσας τῇ ἀστραπῇ τῆς Θεότητος, ὅτε δὲ καὶ τοὺς τεθνεῶτας ἐκ τῶν καταχθονίων ἀνέστησας, πᾶσαι αἱ Δυνάμεις τῶν ἐπουρανίων ἐκραύγαζον·Ζωοδότα Χριστὲ ὁ Θεὸς ἡμῶν δόξα σοι.

Apolytikion for Holy Myrrhbearers Sunday in the 2nd Mode
The noble Joseph, taking Thine immaculate Body down from the Tree, and having wrapped It in pure linen and spices, laid It for burial in a new tomb. But on the third day Thou didst arise, O Lord, granting great mercy to the world.

Ὁ εὐσχήμων Ἰωσήφ, ἀπὸ τοῦ ξύλου καθελὼν τὸ ἄχραντόν σου Σῶμα, σινδόνι καθαρᾷ, εἱλήσας καὶ ἀρώμασιν, ἐν μνήματι καινῷ κηδεύσας ἀπέθετο, ἀλλὰ τριήμερος ἀνέστης Κύριε, παρέχων τῷ κόσμῳ τὸ μέγα ἔλεος.

Apolytikion for Holy Myrrhbearers Sunday in the 2nd Mode
Unto the myrrh-bearing women did the Angel cry out as he stood by the grave: Myrrh oils are meet for the dead, but Christ hath proved to be a stranger to corruption. But cry out: The Lord is risen, granting great mercy to the world.

Ταῖς Μυροφόροις Γυναιξί, παρὰ τὸ μνῆμα ἐπιστάς, ὁ Ἄγγελος ἐβόα. Τὰ μύρα τοῖς θνητοῖς ὑπάρχει ἁρμόδια, Χριστὸς δὲ διαφθορᾶς ἐδείχθη ἀλλότριος, ἀλλὰ κραυγάσατε, Ἀνέστη ὁ Κύριος, παρέχων τῷ κόσμῳ 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 Plagal 4th Mode
Though You went down into the tomb, You destroyed Hades' power, and You rose the victor, Christ God, saying to the myrrh-bearing women, "Hail!" and granting peace to Your disciples, You who raise up the fallen.

Εἰ καὶ ἐν τάφῳ κατῆλθες ἀθάνατε, ἀλλὰ τοῦ ᾍδου καθεῖλες τὴν δύναμιν, καὶ ἀνέστης ὡς νικητής, Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, γυναιξὶ Μυροφόροις φθεγξάμενος. Χαίρετε, καὶ τοῖς σοῖς Ἀποστόλοις εἰρήνην δωρούμενος ὁ τοῖς πεσοῦσι παρέχων ἀνάστασιν. ...show less

They [the women] had followed Him ministering to Him, and were present even unto the time of the dangers. Wherefore also they saw all; how He cried, how He gave up the ghost, how the rocks were rent, and all the rest.

St. John Chrysostom
Homily 88 on Matthew 27, 4th Century

And these [the women] first see Jesus; and the sex that was most condemned, this first enjoys the sight of the blessings, this most shows its courage. And when the disciples had fled, these were present.

St. John Chrysostom
Homily 88 on Matthew 27, 4th Century

‘Every day is Earth Day,’ says Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

By Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate staff
April 22, 2026

April 22 is Earth Day, a global observance of the need to care for the natural environment that has been a centerpiece of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s long and fruitful diakonia to the Church and the world.

In this insightful video, His All-Holiness reflects upon the importance of proper stewardship of God’s creation, noting that “in the Orthodox Church, in our liturgical life, we take the created elements and universe, and through our prayers, we bring it to the throne of God, saying, ‘Dear God, we offer to you what it is yours.’”

His All-Holiness also says: “This... show more‘Every day is Earth Day,’ says Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew

By Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate staff
April 22, 2026

April 22 is Earth Day, a global observance of the need to care for the natural environment that has been a centerpiece of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s long and fruitful diakonia to the Church and the world.

In this insightful video, His All-Holiness reflects upon the importance of proper stewardship of God’s creation, noting that “in the Orthodox Church, in our liturgical life, we take the created elements and universe, and through our prayers, we bring it to the throne of God, saying, ‘Dear God, we offer to you what it is yours.’”

His All-Holiness also says: “This perfect material world was a gift of God to humankind.” He observes frankly: “I travel a lot. I saw with my own eyes how we human beings destroy the natural resources, the forests, the beauty, in order to gain more and more material income. We exploit nature.” He emphasizes that “the environment is not a political or economic issue. The problem is in our soul, in our mind. This is the spiritual dimension of ecology. Destroying air, earth, waters is a sin, because everything was created by God. The good God gave it to us to protect it, to cultivate it, to use it, but not to abuse it.”

With prophetic urgency, His All-Holiness states: “We are not owners of this planet. We are stewards and priests of the creation.” He declares: “We shall change mentalities, change minds, and then we shall restore what we have destroyed, warming our hearts, not the climate, for us, and our children and grandchildren.”

The Ecumenical Patriarch has also stated: “Of course, every day is earth day! Every day is an opportunity to celebrate ‘the earth as the Lord’s and that all who dwell therein belong to the Lord’ (Psalm 24.1). Every day is a reminder of our vulnerability and solidarity. In fact, today, more than ever, we are also reminded of our responsibility to the earth and each other in light of that interdependence between the earth and all its inhabitants. The ecological responsibility and the respect of the sacredness and the beauty of every human person, of the elderly and the disabled, the poor and the marginalized, the sick and the suffering, are today the universal categorical imperative for the whole humanity.”

His All-Holiness on another occasion glorified God “for the uninterrupted and bounteous fruitfulness of the initiatives of His Holy Great Church in the field of creation’s protection.” He noted that “the Ecumenical Patriarchate not only highlighted the seriousness of environmental issues from an early stage, but also focused attention on their foundational causes—which are inner, spiritual, and moral—and proposed solutions based on an Orthodox eucharistic and ascetic ethos.”

In fact, during his extraordinary thirty-five years of global ministry as Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has made care for the environment such a central aspect of his message that he has observed that “Orthodoxy, in her faith, divine worship, and witness to the world is, one could say, the eco-friendly form of Christianity.” He reminds the faithful, as well as the world at large, that “from the beginning, we declared the inseparability of respect for creation and the human person, revealing the common root and interconnection of environmental and social problems.”

It is on the subject of this interconnectedness that His All-Holiness bestows upon us some of his most penetrating and powerful insights. “Alienation from God,” he explains, breeds a possessive and exploitative attitude and behavior toward creation and fellow human beings, while life in and according to Christ is a source of environmental sensitivity and philanthropic action.” Thus responsible care for the environment will flow naturally from the depth of the individual’s Christian commitment: “As the Lord said: ‘Every good tree bears good fruit, but a corrupt tree bears evil fruit. A good tree cannot bear evil fruit, and a corrupt tree cannot bear good fruit’ (Matthew 7:17–18).”

In the same vein, the Ecumenical Patriarch notes that “respect for spiritual values sharpens our discernment of what is good and what must be done.” He argues compellingly against a shallow utilitarianism and pragmatism that would disregard the very idea of human beings as stewards of God’s creation, warning against “the entrapment of the human being in the earthly, that is, to a shrinking of his freedom into pragmatic choices and decisions, always intertwined with superficial views of reality and with the identification of the good with ‘what happens to be useful.’”

His All-Holiness calls for an “ecological repentance” that would involve “a radical change in mindset and behavior toward creation,” particularly in light of “the pandemonium of war cries, bombings, missiles and explosions, which drowns out the cry of the innocent victims of merciless violence and the groaning of creation.” He sounds a chilling warning: “The future of life on our planet will either be ecological and peaceful—or nonexistent.”

This is the choice that is before each of us on this and every Earth Day. ...show less

ARE YOU A 2026 STEWARD OF SAINT NICHOLAS CHURCH YET?

As parishioners of Saint Nicholas we understand that stewardship is a joint effort of ALL members of the community. We can all Rise Up and Build the walls of Christian Love.

Please help our church raise $615,000 by becoming a true steward of Saint Nicholas by pledging and giving a proportional
from God.

https://saintnicholas.org/donate

Support our Festival with an Ad in our Beautiful Program

SPECIFICATIONS
8.5 x 11 inches Page size - Printed in Full Color

RATES: Full Page $1000, Half Page $600

Contact Info: sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com

FESTIVAL 2026 FOOD PREPARATION SCHEDULE

May 11th,
Kourambiethes
Laurie Sahines / 408-823-0111

May 19th
Melomakarona
Laurie Sahines / 408-823-0111

May 25th
Souvlakia, Loukanika, Calamari

May 27th & 28th
Yemista
Niki Poulos / 408-316-7043

SUNDAY SCHOOL LENTEN ALMS PROJECT

Each year, our Sunday School supports a special cause during Lent by collecting needed items for a chosen beneficiary. This Year's Focus: Undergarments for Sacred Heart Community Service (New undergarments are one of the most needed-and least donated-items.)

How You Can Help: Purchase items from our Amazon Wish List or make a cash donation.

Donations both undergarments and cash will be collected through April 29th during coffee hour

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3MW6LCKO2MYMW?ref_=wl_share

April 19

Thomas Sunday

Though the doors were shut at the dwelling where the disciples were gathered for fear of the Jews on the evening of the Sunday after the Passover, our Saviour wondrously entered and stood in their midst, and greeted them with His customary words, "Peace be unto you."

Then He showed unto them His hands and feet and side; furthermore, in their presence, He took some fish and a honeycomb and ate before them, and thus assured them of His bodily Resurrection. But Thomas, who was not then present with the others, did not believe their testimony concerning Christ's Resurrection, but said in a decisive manner, "Except I shall see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of... show moreApril 19

Thomas Sunday

Though the doors were shut at the dwelling where the disciples were gathered for fear of the Jews on the evening of the Sunday after the Passover, our Saviour wondrously entered and stood in their midst, and greeted them with His customary words, "Peace be unto you."

Then He showed unto them His hands and feet and side; furthermore, in their presence, He took some fish and a honeycomb and ate before them, and thus assured them of His bodily Resurrection. But Thomas, who was not then present with the others, did not believe their testimony concerning Christ's Resurrection, but said in a decisive manner, "Except I shall see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into His side, I will not believe."

Wherefore after eight days, that is, on this day, when the disciples were again gathered together and Thomas was with them, the Lord Jesus came while the doors were shut, as He did formerly. Standing in their midst, He said, "Peace be unto you"; then He said to Thomas, "Bring hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and bring hither thy hand, and thrust it into My side: and be not unbelieving, but believing."

And Thomas, beholding and examining carefully the hands and side of the Master, cried out with faith, "My Lord and my God." Thus he clearly proclaimed the two natures - human and divine - of the God-man (Luke 24:36-49; John 20:19-29).

This day is called Antipascha (meaning "in the stead of Pascha," not "in opposition to Pascha") because with this day, the first Sunday after Pascha, the Church consecrates every Sunday of the year to the commemoration of Pascha, that is, the Resurrection. ...show less

April 19, 2026

"Thomas, Doubt and Faith"

The doubt of St. Thomas provides a powerful lesson in discipleship, but not for the reasons that one might think. Thomas was not with the other disciples when they saw the risen Lord, and he insisted on seeing the wounds of Christ before he would believe that Jesus had been resurrected. Because he hesitated, Thomas is famously called “Doubting Thomas,” and his faith is considered weak. But is this the correct way to view him? St. Romanos the Melodist urges us to see something different in Thomas.

According to Romanos, if Thomas doubted what the disciples said, it was not because he failed, but because they did. His doubt was produced by their fragile and feeble witness. Although... show more April 19, 2026

"Thomas, Doubt and Faith"

The doubt of St. Thomas provides a powerful lesson in discipleship, but not for the reasons that one might think. Thomas was not with the other disciples when they saw the risen Lord, and he insisted on seeing the wounds of Christ before he would believe that Jesus had been resurrected. Because he hesitated, Thomas is famously called “Doubting Thomas,” and his faith is considered weak. But is this the correct way to view him? St. Romanos the Melodist urges us to see something different in Thomas.

According to Romanos, if Thomas doubted what the disciples said, it was not because he failed, but because they did. His doubt was produced by their fragile and feeble witness. Although they told him that Jesus was risen, they did not act like Jesus was risen. Instead of having a bold and confident faith, they were still cowering in the upper room. Instead of bravely proclaiming the message of new life, they were hiding under the fear of death. Why would Thomas believe anything they said?

The same is true for us. Think for a moment of the people who inspired you to take your faith seriously. They didn’t just talk about their faith. They lived it. In the same way that Thomas watched how the disciples behaved, our children are also watching us. If they see that we sacrifice for our faith, they will learn to do the same. If they see that we share our abundance with those who lack, they will imitate our kindness. If they see that we treasure the Sunday Divine Liturgy, they will treasure it as well and orient their week around it. Fortified with this knowledge, let us proclaim not only with our words, but with everything we do: Χριστὸς Ἀνέστη! Christ is Risen!

https://bulletinbuilder.org/diakonia-newsletter/2026-04-19/ ...show less

EVZONES FROM GREECE AT ST. NICHOLAS
We are honored and delighted to welcome the official Evzones from Greece to our Saint Nicholas Church on Saturday, April 18th, from 11:00am to 12:30pm in the Small Hall, where they will present a special program in tribute to our Hellenic heritage.

We warmly invite you, your families, and your friends to attend this uniquely distinguished and memorable event. The Evzones’ visit offers a rare opportunity to experience the dignity, discipline, and historical significance of this renowned ceremonial unit.

The Evzones are the elite ceremonial guards of Greece, best known for guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Presidential Mansion in Athens. They serve within the Presidential Guard, a historic... show moreEVZONES FROM GREECE AT ST. NICHOLAS
We are honored and delighted to welcome the official Evzones from Greece to our Saint Nicholas Church on Saturday, April 18th, from 11:00am to 12:30pm in the Small Hall, where they will present a special program in tribute to our Hellenic heritage.

We warmly invite you, your families, and your friends to attend this uniquely distinguished and memorable event. The Evzones’ visit offers a rare opportunity to experience the dignity, discipline, and historical significance of this renowned ceremonial unit.

The Evzones are the elite ceremonial guards of Greece, best known for guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Presidential Mansion in Athens. They serve within the Presidential Guard, a historic unit of the Hellenic Army established in 1868.

This visit is part of a series of Bay Area celebrations leading up to a larger gathering in San Francisco on April 19th, and we are grateful to host them as part of this meaningful journey.

https://saintnicholas.org/events?sid=L2U_ondIHSVtH0DBLKCr7g

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR
We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Olga Cartwright, Shawn Cartwright, Maureen Heliotis, Maria Matheou, and Vivian Tavernakis in the Small Hall. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts for April 26, 2026: Joanne Cox, Mimi Mengisteab, Stacy Panayotopoulos, Mary Perlegos, and Dimitra Tsigaris

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

LENT, HOLY WEEK, AND PASCHA NEEDS - THANK YOU!
Christ is Risen! On behalf of Fr. James, Fr. Nebojsa, and the Saint Nicholas Parish Council, we would like to thank you, our very thoughtful and generous parishioners, for your continual support and for contributing towards the many needs of the church during Lent, Holy Week, Pascha. The incredible love and dedication you have shown, through your generous and considerate contributions, is what continues to sustain and grow our parish. May God bless you and your families always.

SUNDAY SCHOOL LENTEN PROJECT 2026 BENEFITING SACRED HEART
Please support the 2026 Sunday School Lenten Alms Project to benefit Sacred Heart Community through the purchase of new undergarments for our brethen who are in most need. You can participate by purchasing items the Sunday School Amazon Wish List or contributing cash during Coffee Hour, now through April 29, 2026.

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3MW6LCKO2MYMW?ref_=wl_share

ALL GRADUATING SENIORS - HIGH SCHOOL, COLLEGE, OR TRADE SCHOOL
Graduation is an important event for you and your child, and it is equally important to us. We want to honor and congratulate the Class of 2026 by recognizing them in the June Canon of Faith. Please submit the following information by Friday, May 15th:

1. Student’s name.
2. Parents'/guardian names.
3. Student’s high school/college/trade school name of which graduating from.
4. Name of college or university student planning to attend.
5. Desired or actual major.
6. If a college degree was earned, please add if a BS, BA, Masters, or PhD
7. Phone number in case we have questions

8. For high school graduates only: please inlcude 2 photos: a baby photo and a recent photo for the collage in the Canon.

Deadline: Friday, May 15th. All content needs to be submitted to churchoffice@saintnicholas.org. If you have any questions, please call the church office at 408-246-2770

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

2026 FESTIVAL ADS
As in years past, to assist in offsetting our costs we are soliciting advertising from businesses and our own parishioners. These ads are seen by as many as 20,000 Festival attendees, which is great visibility for your business, as well as helping to make our Greek Festival a success! If you wish, as an individual, to give a shout-out to the festival, you can do that too!

Prices for all color ads:

Interior Full page.......................................$1,000
Half Page...................................................$600

Please call or email Elias Papas at eliaspapas2022@gmail.com (408-497-4522) or Sofia Kotsiri at sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com (919-696-7398) to reserve your ad.

Deadline for submissions is May 15, 2026.

2026 FESTIVAL CONTRIBUTIONS NEEDED
The 2026 Greek Festival is almost here! To maximize our overall success while taking into account increased labor and supply costs, please consider making a contribution to one of the following items listed. Any contribution is welcome, whether it be for an entire line item or a partial donation! When we join together, we can accomplish great things, thank you!

If you would like to help, please contact Nick Pagonis at (408)348-5026, Nick Taptelis at (650)703-7525, or Nektarios Matheou at (408) 506-8565.

Food Items Total Cost
Whole Lamb (2) $500
1,200lbs of Flour $700
Greek Coffee $1,000
Olives $1,000
Eggs $1,500
1,300lbs of Sugar $1,300
Frappe $1,500
Olive Oil $2,000
Water/Sparkling Water $2,000
Soft Drinks $2,000
Loux $2,000
Feta $2,500
Filo $2,500
Pita $2,500
French Fries $2,500
Ground Meat $5,000
Calamari $5,000
Butter $6,000
Gyro Meat $7,000
Beer $5,000
Meze Bar $10,000
White Wine $6,000
Red Wine $6,000
Metaxa $5,000
Ouzo $2,000
Tsikoudia $2,000
Ice Cream $2,000
Lamb Chops $30,000
First Aid $2,500
Police $12,000
Security $5,000
Entertainment $6,000
Point of Sale Terminals $17,000
Shuttles $15,000
Advertisement $15,000
New Equipment $10,000
Labor $10,000
Tent Rentals $29,000
...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, April 19 — Thomas Sunday
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Thursday, April 23 - Great Martyr George
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, April 26 — Sunday of the Myrrh-Bearing Women
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES
SUNDAY, APRIL 19: Sunday School - Family Divine Liturgy.

SUNDAY, APRIL 26: Sunday School.

2026 ST. NICHOLAS AND PHILOPTOCHOS SCHOLARSHIPS
We are pleased to announce that scholarship applications for our graduating high school seniors are now available. Both the Sunday School Scholarship and the Philoptochos Scholarship may be picked up through the Church Office or the Sunday School Office.

Submission Deadline: Sunday, May 3rd at 5:00 PM

All applications must be submitted by the deadline in order to be considered. Return applications to the Church Office. We encourage all eligible seniors to apply. If you have any questions, please reach out to Vicki Ryan or Laurie Sahines.

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
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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 146.5;134.3.
Great is our Lord, and great is his power.
Verse: Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good.

The reading is from Acts of the Apostles 5:12-20.

In those days, many signs and wonders were done among the people by the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico. None of the rest dared join them, but the people held them in high honor. And more than ever believers were added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women, so that they even carried out the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and pallets, that as Peter came by at least his shadow might fall on some of them. The people also gathered from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing the sick and those afflicted with unclean spirits, and they were all healed. But the high priest rose up and all who were with him, that is, the party of the Sadducees, and filled with jealousy they arrested the apostles and put them in the common prison. But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out and said, "Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life."

Προκείμενον. 4th Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 146.5;134.3.
Μέγας ὁ Κύριος ἡμῶν, καὶ μεγάλη ἡ ἰσχὺς ἀὐτοῦ.
Στίχ. Αἰνεῖτε τὸν Κύριον, ὅτι ἀγαθός.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πράξεις Ἀποστόλων 5:12-20.

Ἐν ταῖς ἡμεραῖς ἐκείναις, διὰ δὲ τῶν χειρῶν τῶν ἀποστόλων ἐγίνετο σημεῖα καὶ τέρατα ἐν τῷ λαῷ πολλά· καὶ ἦσαν ὁμοθυμαδὸν ἅπαντες ἐν τῇ στοᾷ Σολομῶντος. Τῶν δὲ λοιπῶν οὐδεὶς ἐτόλμα κολλᾶσθαι αὐτοῖς, ἀλλʼ ἐμεγάλυνεν αὐτοὺς ὁ λαός· μᾶλλον δὲ προσετίθεντο πιστεύοντες τῷ κυρίῳ, πλήθη ἀνδρῶν τε καὶ γυναικῶν· ὥστε κατὰ τὰς πλατείας ἐκφέρειν τοὺς ἀσθενεῖς, καὶ τιθέναι ἐπὶ κλινῶν καὶ κραββάτων, ἵνα ἐρχομένου Πέτρου κἂν ἡ σκιὰ ἐπισκιάσῃ τινὶ αὐτῶν. Συνήρχετο δὲ καὶ τὸ πλῆθος τῶν πέριξ πόλεων εἰς Ἱερουσαλήμ, φέροντες ἀσθενεῖς καὶ ὀχλουμένους ὑπὸ πνευμάτων ἀκαθάρτων, οἵτινες ἐθεραπεύοντο ἅπαντες. Ἀναστὰς δὲ ὁ ἀρχιερεὺς καὶ πάντες οἱ σὺν αὐτῷ - ἡ οὖσα αἵρεσις τῶν Σαδδουκαίων - ἐπλήσθησαν ζήλου, καὶ ἐπέβαλον τὰς χεῖρας αὐτῶν ἐπὶ τοὺς ἀποστόλους, καὶ ἔθεντο αὐτοὺς ἐν τηρήσει δημοσίᾳ. Ἄγγελος δὲ κυρίου διὰ τῆς νυκτὸς ἤνοιξεν τὰς θύρας τῆς φυλακῆς, ἐξαγαγών τε αὐτοὺς εἶπεν, Πορεύεσθε, καὶ σταθέντες λαλεῖτε ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ τῷ λαῷ πάντα τὰ ῥήματα τῆς ζωῆς ταύτης.

Gospel Reading
Thomas Sunday
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.

Thomas Sunday
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. ...show less

Apolytikion of Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal 1st Mode
Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life.

Χριστός ἀνέστη ἐκ νεκρῶν, θανάτῳ θάνατον πατήσας, καί τοῖς ἐν τοῖς μνήμασι ζωήν χαρισάμενος.

Apolytikion for Thomas Sun. in the Grave Mode
Whilst the tomb was sealed, Thou, O Life, didst shine forth from the grave, O Christ God; and whilst the doors were shut, Thou didst come unto Thy disciples, O Resurrection of all, renewing through them an upright Spirit in us according to Thy great mercy.

Ἐσφραγισμένου τοῦ μνήματος ἡ ζωὴ ἐκ τάφου ἀνέτειλας... show moreApolytikion of Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal 1st Mode
Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life.

Χριστός ἀνέστη ἐκ νεκρῶν, θανάτῳ θάνατον πατήσας, καί τοῖς ἐν τοῖς μνήμασι ζωήν χαρισάμενος.

Apolytikion for Thomas Sun. in the Grave Mode
Whilst the tomb was sealed, Thou, O Life, didst shine forth from the grave, O Christ God; and whilst the doors were shut, Thou didst come unto Thy disciples, O Resurrection of all, renewing through them an upright Spirit in us according to Thy great mercy.

Ἐσφραγισμένου τοῦ μνήματος ἡ ζωὴ ἐκ τάφου ἀνέτειλας Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, καὶ τῶν θυρῶν κεκλεισμένων, τοῖς Μαθηταῖς ἐπέστης ἡ πάντων ἀνάστασις, πνεῦμα εὐθὲς δι' αὐτῶν ἐγκαινίζων ἡμῖν, κατὰ τὸ μέγα σου ἔλεος.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal 4th Mode
Though You went down into the tomb, You destroyed Hades' power, and You rose the victor, Christ God, saying to the myrrh-bearing women, "Hail!" and granting peace to Your disciples, You who raise up the fallen.

Εἰ καὶ ἐν τάφῳ κατῆλθες ἀθάνατε, ἀλλὰ τοῦ ᾍδου καθεῖλες τὴν δύναμιν, καὶ ἀνέστης ὡς νικητής, Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, γυναιξὶ Μυροφόροις φθεγξάμενος. Χαίρετε, καὶ τοῖς σοῖς Ἀποστόλοις εἰρήνην δωρούμενος ὁ τοῖς πεσοῦσι παρέχων ἀνάστασιν. ...show less

The Lord stoops to the level even of our feeble understanding. He works a miracle of His invisible power in order to satisfy the doubts of unbelieving minds.

St. Hilary of Poitiers
On the Trinity, 1.20. Taken from: Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture. Vol: John. Intervarsity Press, 2007, p. 369.

For great is the dignity of the priests. ... And hold them very exceedingly in honor; for you indeed care about your own affairs, and if you order them well, you give no account for others; ...

St. John Chrysostom
Homily 86, 4th Century

Dear St. Nicholas Parishioners,

We are honored and delighted to welcome the official Evzones from Greece to our Saint Nicholas Church on Saturday, April 18th, from 11:00am to 12:30pm in the Small Hall, where they will present a special program in tribute to our Hellenic heritage.

We warmly invite you, your families, and your friends to attend this uniquely distinguished and memorable event. The Evzones’ visit offers a rare opportunity to experience the dignity, discipline, and historical significance of this renowned ceremonial unit.

The Evzones are the elite ceremonial guards of Greece, best known for guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Presidential Mansion in Athens. They serve within the Presidential Guard, a historic... show moreDear St. Nicholas Parishioners,

We are honored and delighted to welcome the official Evzones from Greece to our Saint Nicholas Church on Saturday, April 18th, from 11:00am to 12:30pm in the Small Hall, where they will present a special program in tribute to our Hellenic heritage.

We warmly invite you, your families, and your friends to attend this uniquely distinguished and memorable event. The Evzones’ visit offers a rare opportunity to experience the dignity, discipline, and historical significance of this renowned ceremonial unit.

The Evzones are the elite ceremonial guards of Greece, best known for guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Presidential Mansion in Athens. They serve within the Presidential Guard, a historic unit of the Hellenic Army established in 1868.

This visit is part of a series of Bay Area celebrations leading up to a larger gathering in San Francisco on April 19th, and we are grateful to host them as part of this meaningful journey.

The St. Nicholas Church Office ...show less

Beloved brothers and sisters in the Lord,

What a profound joy it is to greet you in this radiant and blessed season, as the Church proclaims with one voice the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Wherever you may be in your life at this moment—whatever burdens you may be carrying, whatever trials or uncertainties may weigh upon your heart—I ask you to receive this truth deeply and without hesitation: The light of Christ shines forth into every heart that desires to receive Him.

It is not a distant or abstract light. It is a living, uncreated light that penetrates every darkness. It shines in the midst of sorrow and loss, in moments of fear and uncertainty, in times of illness, disappointment, and even despair. It shines... show moreBeloved brothers and sisters in the Lord,

What a profound joy it is to greet you in this radiant and blessed season, as the Church proclaims with one voice the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Wherever you may be in your life at this moment—whatever burdens you may be carrying, whatever trials or uncertainties may weigh upon your heart—I ask you to receive this truth deeply and without hesitation: The light of Christ shines forth into every heart that desires to receive Him.

It is not a distant or abstract light. It is a living, uncreated light that penetrates every darkness. It shines in the midst of sorrow and loss, in moments of fear and uncertainty, in times of illness, disappointment, and even despair. It shines upon a world marked by division and conflict, by confusion and weariness. And yet, the light of the Resurrection is never overcome. It is not diminished by the darkness: it conquers it.

This, my beloved brothers and sisters, is not simply the language of poetry or symbolism. It is the very proclamation of the Church, the truth upon which our faith is founded. When we stand together in the stillness and solemnity of Holy Saturday night, and we receive the flame and pass it from one to another, we are not merely observing a beautiful tradition. We are bearing witness to the greatest victory in all of human history: that death has been trampled down, that the tomb stands empty, and that the love of God for His creation is stronger than every force that opposes it.

And so the Church, in her wisdom, does not allow us to remain only in celebration, but calls us forward. The sacred period of the Pentecostarion—these holy fifty days from Pascha to Pentecost—is given to us not only as a time of rejoicing, but as a time of calling and purpose. It is an invitation to become what we have received.

We are reminded of the holy Apostle Andrew, who, upon encountering Christ, did not keep this discovery to himself. He immediately went to his brother and said with conviction and joy, “We have found the Messiah.” This is the spirit of the season. We have found Him. We know Him. We have encountered His mercy, His love, His truth. And now we are sent forth, as His disciples, as witnesses of His Resurrection, into the world around us. Into our homes and our families. Into our workplaces and communities. Into every encounter that fills the fabric of our daily lives.

But here, we must pause and examine ourselves.

How do others come to know that we have found the Messiah? How is Christ revealed through us? Is it simply because we are present in the Church? Because we observe the fasts, know the hymns, and mark the feasts?

Our Lord Himself gives us the answer with clarity: “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

And this love, my beloved, is not theoretical. It is not convenient. It is sacrificial. It is the love that forgives even when forgiveness is difficult. It is the love that endures when every instinct urges us to turn away. It is the love that sees beyond faults and failures and beholds the image of God in the other. It is the love that reflects the Cross and is illumined by the Resurrection.

This is how the world will come to know Christ, through the transformation of our lives.

Therefore, let us go forth with faith and with boldness. Let us carry the light we have received, not as something we guard, but as something we freely offer. Let us bear it with humility, with patience, and with unwavering hope, even when it is difficult, even when it is costly, even when the darkness seems persistent.

For the victory has already been accomplished. The Resurrection of Christ has forever changed the course of human history.

Let us proclaim, then, not only with our lips, but with our lives, that we have found the Messiah—through the way we forgive, the way we love, and the way we live each day.
Christ is Risen! Χριστός Ανέστη!

https://sanfran.goarch.org/news/reflection-for-pascha-2026 ...show less

April 12

Great and Holy Pascha

Mary Magdalene, and the other women who were present at the burial of our Saviour on Friday evening, returned from Golgotha to the city and prepared fragrant spices and myrrh, so that they might anoint the body of Jesus. On the morrow, because of the law which forbids work on the day of the Sabbath, they rested for the whole day. But at early dawn on the Sunday that followed, almost thirty-six hours since the death of the Life-giving Redeemer, they came to the sepulchre with the spices to anoint His body. While they were considering the difficulty of rolling away the stone from the door of the sepulchre, there was a fearful earthquake; and an Angel, whose countenance shone like lightning and whose garment... show moreApril 12

Great and Holy Pascha

Mary Magdalene, and the other women who were present at the burial of our Saviour on Friday evening, returned from Golgotha to the city and prepared fragrant spices and myrrh, so that they might anoint the body of Jesus. On the morrow, because of the law which forbids work on the day of the Sabbath, they rested for the whole day. But at early dawn on the Sunday that followed, almost thirty-six hours since the death of the Life-giving Redeemer, they came to the sepulchre with the spices to anoint His body. While they were considering the difficulty of rolling away the stone from the door of the sepulchre, there was a fearful earthquake; and an Angel, whose countenance shone like lightning and whose garment was white as snow, rolled away the stone and sat upon it. The guards that were there became as dead from fear and took to flight. The women, however, went into the sepulchre, but did not find the Lord's body. Instead, they saw two other Angels in the form of youths clothed in white, who told them that the Saviour was risen, and they sent forth the women, who ran to proclaim to the disciples these gladsome tidings. Then Peter and John arrived, having learned from Mary Magdalene what had come to pass, and when they entered the tomb, they found only the winding sheets. Therefore, they returned again to the city with joy, as heralds now of the supernatural Resurrection of Christ, Who in truth was seen alive by the disciples on this day on five occasions.

Our Lord, then, was crucified, died, and was buried on Friday, before the setting of the sun, which was the first of His "three days" in the grave; observing the mystical Sabbath, that "seventh day" in which it is said that the Lord "rested from all His works" (Gen. 2:2-3), He passed all of Saturday in the grave; and He arose "while it was yet dark, very early in the morning" on Sunday, the third day, which, according to the Hebrew reckoning, began after sunset on Saturday.

As we celebrate today this joyous Resurrection, we greet and embrace one another in Christ, thereby demonstrating our Saviour's victory over death and corruption, and the destruction of our ancient enmity with God, and His reconciliation toward us, and our inheritance of life everlasting. The feast itself is called Pascha, which is derived from the Hebrew word which means "passover"; because Christ, Who suffered and arose, has made us to pass over from the curse of Adam and slavery to the devil and death unto our primal freedom and blessedness. In addition, this day of this particular week, which is the first of all the rest, is dedicated to the honour of the Lord; in honour and remembrance of the Resurrection, the Apostles transferred to this day the rest from labour that was formerly assigned to the Sabbath of the ancient Law.

All foods allowed during Renewal Week. ...show less

April 12, 2026

“The Word Became Flesh…”

As we celebrate Christ’s Resurrection, today’s Gospel reading reminds us of his birth when it says, “The Word became flesh” (John 1:14). Easter and Christmas are the two great poles of the liturgical year. Most of the Autumn season leads to Christmas, and the entire Spring leads up to Easter. And, just like the separate poles of the globe, Christmas and Easter seem like opposites in many ways.

One focuses on birth, the other on rising from the dead. One is celebrated in the icy cold of Winter, the other in the warm sunlight of early Spring. The two feasts seem so very different, but they are actually closely connected. We observe, for instance, a 40-day fast before both Christmas... show moreApril 12, 2026

“The Word Became Flesh…”

As we celebrate Christ’s Resurrection, today’s Gospel reading reminds us of his birth when it says, “The Word became flesh” (John 1:14). Easter and Christmas are the two great poles of the liturgical year. Most of the Autumn season leads to Christmas, and the entire Spring leads up to Easter. And, just like the separate poles of the globe, Christmas and Easter seem like opposites in many ways.

One focuses on birth, the other on rising from the dead. One is celebrated in the icy cold of Winter, the other in the warm sunlight of early Spring. The two feasts seem so very different, but they are actually closely connected. We observe, for instance, a 40-day fast before both Christmas and Easter. In both feasts, we see God renewing and remaking his creation. Saint Paul says that those who are in Christ are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17), and the birth and resurrection of Christ are the beginning and the end of this new creation as the curse of Adam is reversed.

Adam was created directly by God with no earthly Father, and the world is recreated in the birth of Christ who also has no earthly Father. Adam’s curse of death is finally removed in the Resurrection. The world begins to be made anew in Christmas, and this work of renewal is brought to completion at Pascha. What remains for us now is to live like people made anew. When insulted, we must forgive. When tempted, we must resist. When filled with all good things, we must share with those in need.

In these ways, we proclaim the message of our Lord to a world waiting for Christ’s renewal, and we announce together with all creation:
Χριστὸς Ἀνέστη!
Christ is Risen!

https://bulletinbuilder.org/diakonia-newsletter/2026-04-12/ ...show less

MARGIRITSA AND FELLOWSHIP - FOLLOWING CANON OF PASCHA AND RESURRECTION SERVICE
We invite all our beloved parishioners to join us on Sunday, April 12th from 11:00 pm - 2:00 am for the Canon of Pascha and Resurrection Service. Following the service, please join us in the Community Center to continue the celebration together with delicious magiritsa and the joy of being united in faith, love, and fellowship.

ST. NICHOLAS LUMINARIES
Saint Nicholas will have our annual Anastasi Luminaries. The Luminaries will be placed and lit at dusk on Holy Saturday evening and remain illuminated throughout the Anastasi Service, creating a path of loving memory of those who have left us, and for hope for those living whom we wish to give strength and love.... show moreMARGIRITSA AND FELLOWSHIP - FOLLOWING CANON OF PASCHA AND RESURRECTION SERVICE
We invite all our beloved parishioners to join us on Sunday, April 12th from 11:00 pm - 2:00 am for the Canon of Pascha and Resurrection Service. Following the service, please join us in the Community Center to continue the celebration together with delicious magiritsa and the joy of being united in faith, love, and fellowship.

ST. NICHOLAS LUMINARIES
Saint Nicholas will have our annual Anastasi Luminaries. The Luminaries will be placed and lit at dusk on Holy Saturday evening and remain illuminated throughout the Anastasi Service, creating a path of loving memory of those who have left us, and for hope for those living whom we wish to give strength and love.

An invitation is extended to all to participate by providing the names and contributions either online (see below), by email at churchoffice@saintnicholas.org or by phone at 408-246-2770.

To place your request online, please click on the link by tonight, Holy Friday, April 10th at 5pm: https://saintnicholas.org/anastasi_luminaries

Suggested donation $10 per luminary. Please note all contributions will benefit Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church.

Please also reference the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin.

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR
No coffee hour on Sunday, April 12th. Kalo Pascha!

Coffee Hour will resume on Sunday, April 19, 2026 in the Small Hall, hosted by: Olga Cartwright, Shawn Cartwright, Maureen Heliotis, Maria Matheou, and Vivian Tavernakis

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

GOLDEN YEARS MEETING - TUESDAY, APRIL 14TH
The next Golden Years meeting will be on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 11:30 am in the Small Hall. Please contact Christina Kouvaris at 408-306-8007 or email ckouvphilo@sbcglobal.net if you have any questions.

ST. NICHOLAS BIBLE STUDY - RESUMES THURSDAY, APRIL 16TH
Come and see, hear and taste that the Lord is Good! St. Nicholas Bible Study continues on Thursdays at 10:00 am with Fr. James in the Church Office Conference Room. Bring your Bible; coffee and refreshments provided. Theme: Reflecting on the Sunday Gospels.

EVZONES FROM GREECE AT ST. NICHOLAS
We are delighted to welcome the Evzones from Greece to our Saint Nicholas Church on Saturday, April 18th, from 11:00am to 12:30pm in the Small Hall. They will offer a special presentation honoring our Hellenic heritage.

We warmly encourage you and your families to join us for this unique and memorable event. This visit is part of a series of Bay Area celebrations leading up to a larger gathering in San Francisco on April 19th.

Please see the flyer in the Special Events section of this bulletin for additional details.

LENT, HOLY WEEK, AND PASCHA NEEDS
Please consider contributing a special donation towards Lent, Holy Week, and Pascha needs to offset church expenses, by selecting to sponsor towards an item from the list below. Please make your checks payable to Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and put the item name in the memo or comments section. Any amount is appreciated! To give online, click here: https://saintnicholas.org/donation. Please put the item name in the memo line. Thank you and Kalo Pascha!

Item Amount
Candle Cups (0% sponsored) $1100
Candles - Holy Fri and Sat Night (100% sponsored) $1350
Candles for Epitaphio (100% sponsored) $750
Candles for Lent Services (100% sponsored) $550
Charcoal (100% sponsored) $250
Communion Wine (100% sponsored) $500
Flowers for Epitafios (99% sponsored) $2,400
Flowers for Icons, Cross, Lent (100% sponsored) $900
Flowers for Icons,Holy Wk,Resurr. (100% sponsored) $1300
Incense (Livani) (100% sponsored) $500
Needed Other Flowers for Church (51% sponsored) $1000
Olive Oil - Holy Unction (100% sponsored) $300
Olive Oil for Vigil Lamps (63% sponsored) $800
Palms (100% sponsored) $650
Sheet for Receiving Body of Christ (100% sponsored) $150
Rose Water (100% sponsored) $100
Stefani Wreath-Holy Thurs (100% sponsored) $300

CHURCH OFFICE
Please note that the church office will be closed on Bright Monday, April 13th.

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

SUNDAY SCHOOL LENTEN PROJECT 2026 BENEFITING SACRED HEART
Please support the 2026 Sunday School Lenten Alms Project to benefit Sacred Heart Community through the purchase of new undergarments for our brethen who are in most need. You can participate by purchasing items the Sunday School Amazon Wish List or contributing cash during Coffee Hour, now through April 29, 2026.

2026 FESTIVAL ADS
As in years past, to assist in offsetting our costs we are soliciting advertising from businesses and our own parishioners. These ads are seen by as many as 20,000 Festival attendees, which is great visibility for your business, as well as helping to make our Greek Festival a success! If you wish, as an individual, to give a shout-out to the festival, you can do that too!

Prices for all color ads:

Interior Full page.......................................$1,000

Half Page...................................................$600

Please call or email Elias Papas at eliaspapas2022@gmail.com (408-497-4522) or Sofia Kotsiri at sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com (919-696-7398) to reserve your ad.

Deadline for submissions is May 15, 2026.

ALL GRADUATING SENIORS - HIGH SCHOOL, COLLEGE, OR TRADE SCHOOL
Graduation is an important event for you and your child, and it is equally important to us. We want to honor and congratulate the Class of 2026 by recognizing them in the June Canon of Faith. Please submit the following information by Friday, May 15th:

1. Student’s name.
2. Parents'/guardian names.
3. Student’s high school/college/trade school name of which graduating from.
4. Name of college or university student planning to attend.
5. Desired or actual major.
6. If a college degree was earned, please add if a BS, BA, Masters, or PhD
7. Phone number in case we have questions

8. For high school graduates only: please inlcude 2 photos: a baby photo and a recent photo for the collage in the Canon.

Deadline: Friday, May 15th. All content needs to be submitted to churchoffice@saintnicholas.org. If you have any questions, please call the church office at 408-246-2770 ...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/

Friday, April 10 - Holy and Great Friday
2:30 p.m. Apokathilosis (Unnailing from the Cross)
7:00 p.m. Lamentations at the Tomb, Orthros of Holy Saturday

Saturday, April 11 - Holy Saturday
8:30 a.m. Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil (Proti-Anastasi)
11:00 p.m. Canon of Pascha and Resurrection Service

Sunday, April 12 - Great and Holy Pascha
11:00 a.m. Agape Vespers

Friday, April 17 - Theotokos of the Life-Giving Spring
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, April 19 — Thomas Sunday
8:15... 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/

Friday, April 10 - Holy and Great Friday
2:30 p.m. Apokathilosis (Unnailing from the Cross)
7:00 p.m. Lamentations at the Tomb, Orthros of Holy Saturday

Saturday, April 11 - Holy Saturday
8:30 a.m. Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil (Proti-Anastasi)
11:00 p.m. Canon of Pascha and Resurrection Service

Sunday, April 12 - Great and Holy Pascha
11:00 a.m. Agape Vespers

Friday, April 17 - Theotokos of the Life-Giving Spring
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, April 19 — Thomas Sunday
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom ...show less

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES
SUNDAY, APRIL 12: No classes.

SUNDAY, APRIL 19: Sunday School.

2026 ST. NICHOLAS AND PHILOPTOCHOS SCHOLARSHIPS
We are pleased to announce that scholarship applications for our graduating high school seniors are now available. Both the Sunday School Scholarship and the Philoptochos Scholarship may be picked up through the Church Office or the Sunday School Office.

Submission Deadline: Sunday, May 3rd at 5:00 PM

All applications must be submitted by the deadline in order to be considered. Return applications to the Church Office. We encourage all eligible seniors to apply. If you have any questions, please reach out to Vicki Ryan or Laurie Sahines.

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
Great and Holy Pascha
The Reading is from Mark 16:1-8

When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Salome, bought spices, so that they might go and anoint Jesus. And very early on the first day of the week they went to the tomb when the sun had risen. And they were saying to one another, "Who will roll away the stone for us from the door of the tomb?" And looking up, they saw that the stone was rolled back - it was very large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe; and they were amazed. And he said to them, "Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen, He is not here; see the place where... show moreMatins Gospel Reading
Great and Holy Pascha
The Reading is from Mark 16:1-8

When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Salome, bought spices, so that they might go and anoint Jesus. And very early on the first day of the week they went to the tomb when the sun had risen. And they were saying to one another, "Who will roll away the stone for us from the door of the tomb?" And looking up, they saw that the stone was rolled back - it was very large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe; and they were amazed. And he said to them, "Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen, He is not here; see the place where they laid Him. But go, tell His disciples and Peter that He is going before you to Galilee; there you will see Him, as He told you." And they went out and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had come upon them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

Great and Holy Pascha
Κατὰ Μᾶρκον 16:1-8

Διαγενομένου τοῦ Σαββάτου, Μαρία ἡ Μαγδαληνὴ καὶ Μαρία ἡ τοῦ Ἰακώβου καὶ Σαλώμη ἠγόρασαν ἀρώματα, ἵνα ἐλθοῦσαι ἀλείψωσιν τὸν Ἰησοῦν. Καὶ λίαν πρωῒ τῇ μιᾷ τῶν σαββάτων ἔρχονται ἐπὶ τὸ μνημεῖον ἀνατείλαντος τοῦ ἡλίου. Καὶ ἔλεγον πρὸς ἑαυτάς· Τίς ἀποκυλίσει ἡμῖν τὸν λίθον ἐκ τῆς θύρας τοῦ μνημείου; καὶ ἀναβλέψασαι θεωροῦσιν ὅτι ἀποκεκύλισται ὁ λίθος· ἦν γὰρ μέγας σφόδρα. Καὶ εἰσελθοῦσαι εἰς τὸ μνημεῖον, εἶδον νεανίσκον καθήμενον ἐν τοῖς δεξιοῖς, περιβεβλημένον στολήν λευκήν, καὶ ἐξεθαμβήθησαν· ὁ δὲ λέγει αὐταῖς· Μὴ ἐκθαμβεῖσθε, Ἰησοῦν ζητεῖτε τὸν Ναζαρηνὸν τὸν ἐσταυρωμένον, ἠγέρθη, οὐκ ἔστιν ᾧδε· ἴδε, ὁ τόπος ὅπου ἔθηκαν αὐτόν, ἀλλ' ὑπάγετε, εἴπατε τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ καὶ τῷ Πέτρῳ, ὅτι προάγει ὑμᾶς εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν· ἐκεῖ αὐτὸν ὄψεσθε, καθὼς εἶπεν ὑμῖν. Καὶ ἐξελθοῦσαι ταχὺ ἔφυγον ἀπὸ τοῦ μνημείου, εἶχε δὲ αὐτὰς τρόμος καὶ ἔκστασις, καὶ οὐδενὶ οὐδὲν εἶπον· ἐφοβοῦντο γάρ.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Plagal 4th Mode. Psalm 117.24,29.
This is the day which the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Verse: Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his mercy endures for ever.

The reading is from Acts of the Apostles 1:1-8.

In the first book, O Theophilos, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commandment through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. To them he presented himself alive after his passion by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days, and speaking of the kingdom of God. And while staying with them he charged them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, "you heard from me, for John baptized with water, but before many days you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit."

So when they had come together, they asked him, "Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom of lsrael?" He said to them, "it is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth."

Προκείμενον. Plagal 4th Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 117.24,29.
αὕτη ἡ ἡμέρα, ἣν ἐποίησεν ὁ Κύριος· ἀγαλλιασώμεθα καὶ εὐφρανθῶμεν ἐν αὐτῇ
Στίχ. ἐξομολογεῖσθε τῷ Κυρίῳ, ὅτι ἀγαθός, ὅτι εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα τὸ ἔλεος αὐτοῦ

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πράξεις Ἀποστόλων 1:1-8.

Τὸν μὲν πρῶτον λόγον ἐποιησάμην περὶ πάντων, ὦ Θεόφιλε, ὧν ἤρξατο ὁ Ἰησοῦς ποιεῖν τε καὶ διδάσκειν, ἄχρι ἧς ἡμέρας, ἐντειλάμενος τοῖς ἀποστόλοις διὰ πνεύματος ἁγίου οὓς ἐξελέξατο, ἀνελήφθη· οἷς καὶ παρέστησεν ἑαυτὸν ζῶντα μετὰ τὸ παθεῖν αὐτὸν ἐν πολλοῖς τεκμηρίοις, δι᾿ ἡμερῶν τεσσαράκοντα ὀπτανόμενος αὐτοῖς, καὶ λέγων τὰ περὶ τῆς βασιλείας τοῦ θεοῦ. Καὶ συναλιζόμενος παρήγγειλεν αὐτοῖς ἀπὸ Ἱεροσολύμων μὴ χωρίζεσθαι, ἀλλὰ περιμένειν τὴν ἐπαγγελίαν τοῦ πατρός, Ἣν ἠκούσατέ μου· ὅτι Ἰωάννης μὲν ἐβάπτισεν ὕδατι, ὑμεῖς δὲ βαπτισθήσεσθε ἐν πνεύματι ἁγίῳ οὐ μετὰ πολλὰς ταύτας ἡμέρας. Οἱ μὲν οὖν συνελθόντες ἐπηρώτων αὐτὸν λέγοντες, Κύριε, εἰ ἐν τῷ χρόνῳ τούτῳ ἀποκαθιστάνεις τὴν βασιλείαν τῷ Ἰσραήλ; Εἶπεν δὲ πρὸς αὐτούς, Οὐχ ὑμῶν ἐστιν γνῶναι χρόνους ἢ καιροὺς οὓς ὁ πατὴρ ἔθετο ἐν τῇ ἰδίᾳ ἐξουσίᾳ. Ἀλλὰ λήψεσθε δύναμιν, ἐπελθόντος τοῦ ἁγίου πνεύματος ἐφ᾿ ὑμᾶς· καὶ ἔσεσθέ μοι μάρτυρες ἔν τε Ἱερουσαλήμ, καὶ ἐν πάσῃ τῇ Ἰουδαίᾳ καὶ Σαμαρείᾳ, καὶ ἕως ἐσχάτου τῆς γῆς.

Gospel Reading
Great and Holy Pascha
The Reading is from John 1:1-17

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came for testimony, to bear witness to the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness to the light.

The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world knew him not. He came to his own home, and his own people received him not. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God; who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father. (John bore witness to him, and cried, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks before me, for he was before me.'") And from his fullness have we all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

Great and Holy Pascha
Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 1:1-17

Ἐν ἀρχῇ ἦν ὁ Λόγος, καὶ ὁ Λόγος ἦν πρὸς τὸν Θεόν, καὶ Θεὸς ἦν ὁ Λόγος. Οὗτος ἦν ἐν ἀρχῇ πρὸς τὸν Θεόν. Πάντα δι᾽ αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο, καὶ χωρὶς αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο οὐδὲ ἓν ὃ γέγονεν. Ἐν αὐτῷ ζωὴ ἦν, καὶ ἡ ζωὴ ἦν τὸ φῶς τῶν ἀνθρώπων. Καὶ τὸ φῶς ἐν τῇ σκοτίᾳ φαίνει, καὶ ἡ σκοτία αὐτὸ οὐ κατέλαβεν.

Ἐγένετο ἄνθρωπος ἀπεσταλμένος παρὰ Θεοῦ, ὄνομα αὐτῷ Ἰωάννης· οὗτος ἦλθεν εἰς μαρτυρίαν, ἵνα μαρτυρήσῃ περὶ τοῦ φωτός, ἵνα πάντες πιστεύσωσι δι᾽ αὐτοῦ. Οὐκ ἦν ἐκεῖνος τὸ φῶς, ἀλλ᾽ ἵνα μαρτυρήσῃ περὶ τοῦ φωτός. Ἧν τὸ φῶς τὸ ἀληθινόν, ὃ φωτίζει πάντα ἄνθρωπον ἐρχόμενον εἰς τὸν κόσμον. Ἐν τῷ κόσμῳ ἦν, καὶ ὁ κόσμος δι᾽ αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο, καὶ ὁ κόσμος αὐτὸν οὐκ ἔγνω. Εἰς τὰ ἴδια ἦλθε, καὶ οἱ ἴδιοι αὐτὸν οὐ παρέλαβον. Ὅσοι δὲ ἔλαβον αὐτόν, ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς ἐξουσίαν τέκνα Θεοῦ γενέσθαι, τοῖς πιστεύουσιν εἰς τὸ ὄνομα αὐτοῦ, οἳ οὐκ ἐξ αἱμάτων, οὐδὲ ἐκ θελήματος σαρκός, οὐδὲ ἐκ θελήματος ἀνδρός, ἀλλ᾽ ἐκ Θεοῦ ἐγεννήθησαν.

Καὶ ὁ Λόγος σὰρξ ἐγένετο καὶ ἐσκήνωσεν ἐν ἡμῖν, καὶ ἐθεασάμεθα τὴν δόξαν αὐτοῦ, δόξαν ὡς μονογενοῦς παρὰ πατρός, πλήρης χάριτος καὶ ἀληθείας. Ἰωάννης μαρτυρεῖ περὶ αὐτοῦ καὶ κέκραγε λέγων· Οὗτος ἦν ὃν εἶπον, ὁ ὀπίσω μου ἐρχόμενος ἔμπροσθέν μου γέγονεν, ὅτι πρῶτός μου ἦν. Καὶ ἐκ τοῦ πληρώματος αὐτοῦ ἡμεῖς πάντες ἐλάβομεν, καὶ χάριν ἀντὶ χάριτος· ὅτι ὁ νόμος διὰ Μωϋσέως ἐδόθη, ἡ χάρις καὶ ἡ ἀλήθεια διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐγένετο. ...show less

Apolytikion for Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal 1st Mode
Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life.

Χριστός ἀνέστη ἐκ νεκρῶν, θανάτῳ θάνατον πατήσας, καί τοῖς ἐν τοῖς μνήμασι ζωήν χαρισάμενος.

Hypakoe of Great and Holy Pascha in the 4th Mode
When they who were with Mary came, anticipating the dawn, and found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre, they heard from the Angel: Why seek ye among the dead, as though He were mortal man, Him Who abideth in everlasting light? Behold the grave-clothes. Go quickly and proclaim to the world that the Lord is risen, and hath put death to... show moreApolytikion for Great and Holy Pascha in the Plagal 1st Mode
Christ is risen from the dead, by death, trampling down upon death, and to those in the tombs He has granted life.

Χριστός ἀνέστη ἐκ νεκρῶν, θανάτῳ θάνατον πατήσας, καί τοῖς ἐν τοῖς μνήμασι ζωήν χαρισάμενος.

Hypakoe of Great and Holy Pascha in the 4th Mode
When they who were with Mary came, anticipating the dawn, and found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre, they heard from the Angel: Why seek ye among the dead, as though He were mortal man, Him Who abideth in everlasting light? Behold the grave-clothes. Go quickly and proclaim to the world that the Lord is risen, and hath put death to death. For He is the Son of God, Who saveth the race of men.

Προλαβοῦσαι τὸν ὄρθρον αἱ περὶ Μαριάμ, καὶ εὑροῦσαι τὸν λίθον ἀποκυλισθέντα τοῦ μνήματος, ἤκουον ἐκ τοῦ Ἀγγέλου. Τὸν ἐν φωτὶ ἀϊδίῳ ὑπάρχοντα, μετὰ νεκρῶν τί ζητεῖτε ὡς ἄνθρωπον; βλέπετε τὰ ἐντάφια σπάργανα, δράμετε, καὶ τῷ κόσμῳ κηρύξατε, ὡς ἡγέρθη ὁ Κύριος, θανατώσας τὸν θάνατον· ὅτι ὑπάρχει Θεοῦ Υἱός, τοῦ σῴζοντος τὸ γένος τῶν ἀνθρώπων.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal 4th Mode
Though You went down into the tomb, You destroyed Hades' power, and You rose the victor, Christ God, saying to the myrrh-bearing women, "Hail!" and granting peace to Your disciples, You who raise up the fallen.

Εἰ καὶ ἐν τάφῳ κατῆλθες ἀθάνατε, ἀλλὰ τοῦ ᾍδου καθεῖλες τὴν δύναμιν, καὶ ἀνέστης ὡς νικητής, Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, γυναιξὶ Μυροφόροις φθεγξάμενος. Χαίρετε, καὶ τοῖς σοῖς Ἀποστόλοις εἰρήνην δωρούμενος ὁ τοῖς πεσοῦσι παρέχων ἀνάστασιν. ...show less

...all knowledge, strength and virtue are the grace of God, as are all other things. And through grace He has given all men the power to become sons of God (cf. John 1:12) by keeping the divine commandments. Or, rather, these commandments keep us, and are the grace of God, since without His grace we cannot keep them. We have nothing to offer Him except our faith, our resolution and, in brief, all the true dogmas that we hold with firm faith through the teaching we have heard (cf. Rom. 10:17).

St. Peter of Damaskos
A Treasury of Divine Knowledge, Book 1: Introduction, Philokalia Vol. 3 edited by Palmer, Sherrard and Ware; Faber and Faber pg. 89, 8th century

...'the light' already 'shines in the darkness' (Jn. 1:5), both... show more...all knowledge, strength and virtue are the grace of God, as are all other things. And through grace He has given all men the power to become sons of God (cf. John 1:12) by keeping the divine commandments. Or, rather, these commandments keep us, and are the grace of God, since without His grace we cannot keep them. We have nothing to offer Him except our faith, our resolution and, in brief, all the true dogmas that we hold with firm faith through the teaching we have heard (cf. Rom. 10:17).

St. Peter of Damaskos
A Treasury of Divine Knowledge, Book 1: Introduction, Philokalia Vol. 3 edited by Palmer, Sherrard and Ware; Faber and Faber pg. 89, 8th century

...'the light' already 'shines in the darkness' (Jn. 1:5), both by day and by night, both within and without - within in our hearts (II Cor. 6:16), without in our minds. It shines on us without evening, without change, without alteration, without form. It speaks, works, lives, gives life, and changes into light those whom it illuminates. We bear witness that 'God is light' (I Jn. 1:5) and those to whom it has been granted to see Him have all beheld Him as light, because the light of His glory goes before Him, and it is impossible for Him to appear without light. Those who have not seen His light have not seen Him, for He is the Light, and those who have not received the Light have not yet received grace. Those who have received grace have received the Light of God and have received God, even as Christ Himself, who is the Light, has said, 'I will live in them and move among them' (II Cor. 6:16).

St. Symeon the New Theologian
Discourses: XXVIII sect. 4, Paulist Press pg. 298, 11th century ...show less

FESTIVAL 2026 FOOD PREPARATION SCHEDULE

May 11th,
Kourambiethes
Laurie Sahines / 408-823-0111

May 19th
Melomakarona
Laurie Sahines / 408-823-0111

May 25th
Souvlakia, Loukanika, Calamari

May 27th & 28th
Yemista
Niki Poulos / 408-316-7043

SUNDAY SCHOOL LENTEN ALMS PROJECT

Each year, our Sunday School supports a special cause during Lent by collecting needed items for a chosen beneficiary. This Year's Focus: Undergarments for Sacred Heart Community Service (New undergarments are one of the most needed-and least donated-items.)

How You Can Help: Purchase items from our Amazon Wish List or make a cash donation.

Donations both undergarments and cash will be collected through April 29th during coffee hour

Please see the full Holy Week service schedule . We look forward to gathering together in prayer and worship.
Wishing you a blessed Holy Week.

2026 FESTIVAL ADS

These ads are seen by as many as 20,000 Festival attendees, which is great visibility for your business, as well as helping to make our Greek Festival a success! If you wish, as an individual, to give a shout-out to the festival, you can do that too!

SPECIFICATIONS
8.5 x 11 inches Page size - Printed in Full Color

RATES: Full Page $1000, Half Page $600

Please call or email Elias Papas at eliaspapas2022@gmail.com (408-497-4522) or Sofia Kotsiri at sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com (919-696-7398) to reserve your ad.

Deadline for submissions is May 15, 2026.

https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/169/responses/new

April 2026

Message from Father James

The Catechetical Paschal Homily of our Father Among the Saints,
St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople:

If there are devout and God loving people here, let them enjoy this beautiful, radiant festival. If there are prudent servants, enter joyously into the Lord’s joy. Whoever may be spent from fasting, enjoy now your reward. Whoever has toiled from the first hour, receive today your just settlement. If any came after the third hour, celebrate gratefully. If any you arrived after the sixth, have no misgivings, you have lost nothing. If some have been as late as the ninth, come forward, do not be at a loss. If any of you have arrived only at the eleventh hour, do not be dismayed for being... show moreApril 2026

Message from Father James

The Catechetical Paschal Homily of our Father Among the Saints,
St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople:

If there are devout and God loving people here, let them enjoy this beautiful, radiant festival. If there are prudent servants, enter joyously into the Lord’s joy. Whoever may be spent from fasting, enjoy now your reward. Whoever has toiled from the first hour, receive today your just settlement. If any came after the third hour, celebrate gratefully. If any you arrived after the sixth, have no misgivings, you have lost nothing. If some have been as late as the ninth, come forward, do not be at a loss. If any of you have arrived only at the eleventh hour, do not be dismayed for being late.

The Master is gracious: He accepts the last even as the first; He gives rest to those of the eleventh as well as to those who have labored from the first; He is lenient with the last while looking after the first; to the one He gives, to the other He gives freely; He accepts the labors and welcomes the effort; honors the deed, but commends the intent. So, all of you, enter into the joy of our Lord: first and second, share the bounty. Rich and poor alike, celebrate together. Sober or heedless, honor the day. Those who fasted and those who did not, rejoice today. The table is full, everyone fare sumptuously.

The calf is fatted; no one go away hungry. Everyone, savor the banquet of faith; relish the riches of His goodness. No one need lament poverty, for the kingdom is seen as universal. No one need grieve over sins; forgiveness has dawned from the tomb. No one need fear death; the Savior’s death has freed us from it. While its captive He stifled it. He despoiled Hades as He descended into it; it was embittered when it tasted His flesh. Foreseeing this, Isaiah proclaimed: “Hades,” he said, “was embittered when he met You below.” It was embittered because it was abolished. It was embittered because it was mocked. It was embittered because it was slain. It was embittered because it was shackled. It received a body and encountered God. It took earth and came face to face with heaven. It took what it saw and fell by what it could not see. Death, where is your sting? Hades, where is your victory? Christ is risen and you are overthrown. Christ is risen and demons have fallen. Christ is risen and angels rejoice. Christ is risen and life rules. Christ is risen and not one dead remains in the tomb. For Christ, having risen from the dead, has become the firstfruits of those that slept. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever.

Amen.

https://indd.adobe.com/view/360e71b5-242e-4b49-9dab-6d1823988303 ...show less

CANON OF PASCHA & RESURRECTION SERVICE SUNDAY APRIL 12TH . 11:00 PM - 2:00 AM

JOIN US FOR MAGIRITSA FOLLOWING DIVINE LITURGY

Join us on this holy night as we gather for the Canon of Pascha and the Resurrection Service, celebrating
the radiant and life-giving Resurrection of and Savior Jesus Christ.

Following the Divine Liturgy, we invite all our beloved parishioners to the Community Center to continue the
celebration together with delicious magiritsa and the joy of being united in faith, love, and fellowship.

Let us greet the Resurrection as one family, filled with hope and the light of Christ.

As we enter this sacred season, we invite you to join us for Holy Week services.

Please see the full Holy Week service schedule . We look forward to gathering together in prayer and worship.
Wishing you a blessed Holy Week.

Dear Parents of Saint Nicholas,

For those of you who have not yet signed up, this is a final reminder to register your child(ren) for our Holy Friday Retreat. We would love to have them join us for what will be a beautiful and meaningful day on Friday, April 10th, from 10am – 2pm.

A heartfelt thank you to all the parents who have already registered. We are looking forward to a blessed and enriching experience together.

Registration link: https://forms.gle/RrVAJ3jXHM7f22hX7

April 05

Palm Sunday

On Sunday, five days before the Passover of the Law, the Lord came from Bethany to Jerusalem. Sending two of His disciples to bring Him a foal of an ass, He sat thereon and entered into the city.

When the multitude there heard that Jesus was coming, they straightway took up the branches of palm trees in their hands, and went forth to meet Him.

Others spread their garments on the ground, and yet others cut branches from the trees and strewed them in the way that Jesus was to pass; and all of them together, especially the children, went before and after Him, crying out: "Hosanna: Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord, the King of Israel" (John 12:13). This is the radiant and glorious festival... show moreApril 05

Palm Sunday

On Sunday, five days before the Passover of the Law, the Lord came from Bethany to Jerusalem. Sending two of His disciples to bring Him a foal of an ass, He sat thereon and entered into the city.

When the multitude there heard that Jesus was coming, they straightway took up the branches of palm trees in their hands, and went forth to meet Him.

Others spread their garments on the ground, and yet others cut branches from the trees and strewed them in the way that Jesus was to pass; and all of them together, especially the children, went before and after Him, crying out: "Hosanna: Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord, the King of Israel" (John 12:13). This is the radiant and glorious festival of our Lord's entry into Jerusalem that we celebrate today.

The branches of the palm trees symbolize Christ's victory over the devil and death. The word Hosanna means "Save, I pray," or "Save, now." The foal of an ass, and Jesus' sitting thereon, and the fact that this animal was untamed and considered unclean according to the Law, signified the former uncleanness and wildness of the nations, and their subjection thereafter to the holy Law of the Gospel. ...show less

April 5, 2026

The Medicine of Immortality

Dining and death are closely connected in today’s Gospel reading. Death pervades the passage. We hear that Lazarus was raised from the dead. We then hear that Jesus is anointed for death. We hear, finally, that Lazarus is marked for murder, because the opponents of Jesus are jealous of his renown. And a meal in the house of Lazarus provides the background for this pervasive focus on death.

The ancients often joined dining and death because these things represent two poles of the human experience. To eat is to live. To eat is to push death back for one more day. Although it may sound macabre to us, ancient Roman dining rooms were often decorated with mosaics of skeletons, and the ancient Egyptians... show moreApril 5, 2026

The Medicine of Immortality

Dining and death are closely connected in today’s Gospel reading. Death pervades the passage. We hear that Lazarus was raised from the dead. We then hear that Jesus is anointed for death. We hear, finally, that Lazarus is marked for murder, because the opponents of Jesus are jealous of his renown. And a meal in the house of Lazarus provides the background for this pervasive focus on death.

The ancients often joined dining and death because these things represent two poles of the human experience. To eat is to live. To eat is to push death back for one more day. Although it may sound macabre to us, ancient Roman dining rooms were often decorated with mosaics of skeletons, and the ancient Egyptians are said to have propped a skeleton in a chair as though he were a guest at the meal. These unusual behaviors were meant as reminders to the diners that life is short, and that we should “eat, drink and be merry, because tomorrow we die” (1 Corinthians 15:32). People were trained to enjoy earthly pleasures as long as they could, and the dining table reminded them that life ends only in the grave.

Dining is different for Christians. When Christians share the sacred meal of Holy Communion, we are not reminded that our lives are limited by the grave, but that our lives are unlimited in the Resurrection of Christ. St. Ignatios of Antioch called Holy Communion the “medicine of immortality.”

To receive Holy Communion is to participate in the Resurrection of our Lord, and to announce his message of new life. Let us prepare for Holy Communion by living lives worthy of what we have received, and let us leave Church each week empowered with the new life we have been given.

https://bulletinbuilder.org/diakonia-newsletter/2026-04-05/ ...show less

BASIC GUIDE TO EASTERN ORTHODOX THEOLOGY - FRIDAY EVENINGS
On Friday, April 3rd, the class will begin at a special time of 5:00pm and will be the last class until fall.

It will be hybrid class via a zoom link and in-person at the Church Office Conference Room (986 Chapman St. San Jose, CA 95126).

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7084362224

For more information please contact Fr. Nebojsa Pantic at FrNebojsa@saintnicholas.org.

ST. NICHOLAS LENTEN POTLUCK AND PALM FOLDING
Please come! We need to make 1000 palm crosses!

All St. Nicholas families and community welcome! Join Presbytera Vasso and Presbytera Stephanie as we come together with love, gratitude, and faith to make 1000 palm crosses for our Palm Sunday Services.

Date:... show moreBASIC GUIDE TO EASTERN ORTHODOX THEOLOGY - FRIDAY EVENINGS
On Friday, April 3rd, the class will begin at a special time of 5:00pm and will be the last class until fall.

It will be hybrid class via a zoom link and in-person at the Church Office Conference Room (986 Chapman St. San Jose, CA 95126).

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7084362224

For more information please contact Fr. Nebojsa Pantic at FrNebojsa@saintnicholas.org.

ST. NICHOLAS LENTEN POTLUCK AND PALM FOLDING
Please come! We need to make 1000 palm crosses!

All St. Nicholas families and community welcome! Join Presbytera Vasso and Presbytera Stephanie as we come together with love, gratitude, and faith to make 1000 palm crosses for our Palm Sunday Services.

Date: Friday, April 3RD
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Small Hall

Please bring a Lenten dish to share! Drinks, coffee, and Lenten desserts will be provided.

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR
We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted in the Community Center by the Saint Nicholas Parish Council. We extend a heartfelt thank you to our hosts.

No coffee hour on Sunday, April 12th. Kalo Pascha!

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

PALM SUNDAY LUNCH
This coming Sunday, April 5th, we warmly invite everyone to join us for our Palm Sunday Lunch immediately after the Divine Liturgy in the Community Center.

If you have not yet purchased your tickets, don’t worry — we have plenty of space for all of our beloved parishioners. You may still buy your tickets online at https://saintnicholas.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/162/responses/new or you can purchase them on the day of the event.

All are welcome as we gather on this holy and spiritual day with love, joy, and fellowship.

Adult menu: salad, bread, butter, salmon, orzo, vegetables, dessert, coffee, water and wine
Kids menu: pasta or fish
Tickets:

Adults $35.00
Children (ages 6- 18) - pasta or fish - $15.00
Children - (ages 5 and under) pasta or fish - free
Table of 8: $260.00

For any questions or to rsvp, please contact: Vicki Ryan 408-858-4774 or Vicki.Vasiliki.Ryan@gmail.com.

ST. NICHOLAS LUMINARIES
Saint Nicholas will have our annual Anastasi Luminaries. The Luminaries will be placed and lit at dusk on Holy Saturday evening and remain illuminated throughout the Anastasi Service, creating a path of loving memory of those who have left us, and for hope for those living whom we wish to give strength and love.

An invitation is extended to all to participate by providing the names and contributions either online (see below), by email at churchoffice@saintnicholas.org or by phone at 408-246-2770.

To place your request online, please click on the link: https://saintnicholas.org/anastasi_luminaries

Suggested donation $10 per luminary. Please note all contributions will benefit Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church.

Please also reference the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin.

AGAPE SERVICE GOSPEL READERS
At the Agape Vespers, celebrated the Sunday of Pascha morning at 11:00 am, we will have the Gospel reading in many different languages. This is the only case within the year that lay-people, men and women of all ages, are allowed to read the Gospel reading in the church. If you are able to read the Gospel reading in any other language, besides English and Greek, please contact the Church Office at churchoffice@saintnicholas.org or call 408-246-2770.

LENT, HOLY WEEK, AND PASCHA NEEDS
Please consider contributing a special donation towards Lent, Holy Week, and Pascha needs to offset church expenses, by selecting to sponsor towards an item from the list below. Please make your checks payable to Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and put the item name in the memo or comments section. Any amount is appreciated! To give online, click here: https://saintnicholas.org/donation. Please put the item name in the memo line. Thank you and Kalo Pascha!

Item Amount
Candle Cups (0% sponsored) $1100
Candles - Holy Fri and Sat Night (100% sponsored) $1350
Candles for Epitaphio (100% sponsored) $750
Candles for Lent Services (100% sponsored) $550
Charcoal (100% sponsored) $250
Communion Wine (100% sponsored) $500
Flowers for Epitafios (50% sponsored) $2,400
Flowers for Icons, Cross, Lent (100% sponsored) $900
Flowers for Icons,Holy Wk,Resurr. (100% sponsored) $1300
Incense (Livani) (100% sponsored) $500
Needed Other Flowers for Church (0% sponsored) $1000
Olive Oil - Holy Unction (100% sponsored) $300
Olive Oil for Vigil Lamps (0% sponsored) $800
Palms (0% sponsored) $650
Sheet for Receiving Body of Christ (100% sponsored) $150
Rose Water (100% sponsored) $100
Stefani Wreath-Holy Thurs (100% sponsored) $300

2026 FESTIVAL ADS
As in years past, to assist in offsetting our costs we are soliciting advertising from businesses and our own parishioners. These ads are seen by as many as 20,000 Festival attendees, which is great visibility for your business, as well as helping to make our Greek Festival a success! If you wish, as an individual, to give a shout-out to the festival, you can do that too!

Prices for all color ads:
Interior Full page.......................................$1,000
Half Page...................................................$600

Please call or email Elias Papas at eliaspapas2022@gmail.com (408-497-4522) or Sofia Kotsiri at sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com (919-696-7398) to reserve your ad.

Deadline for submissions is May 15, 2026.

ALL GRADUATING SENIORS - HIGH SCHOOL, COLLEGE, OR TRADE SCHOOL
Graduation is an important event for you and your child, and it is equally important to us. We want to honor and congratulate the Class of 2026 by recognizing them in the June Canon of Faith. Please submit the following information by Friday, May 15th:

1. Student’s name.
2. Parents'/guardian names.
3. Student’s high school/college/trade school name of which graduating from.
4. Name of college or university student planning to attend.
5. Desired or actual major.
6. If a college degree was earned, please add if a BS, BA, Masters, or PhD
7. Phone number in case we have questions

8. For high school graduates only: please inlcude 2 photos: a baby photo and a recent photo for the collage in the Canon.

Deadline: Friday, May 15th. All content needs to be submitted to churchoffice@saintnicholas.org. If you have any questions, please call the church office at 408-246-2770

MEMORIALS
Please note that there are no memorials from the Saturday of Lazarus up to and including the Sunday of Thomas.

ST. NICHOLAS BASKETBALL PROGRAM - HIGH SCHOOL BOYS STAY UNDEFEATED!
Our High School Boys remain undefeated with a convincing win against a tough Annunciation team, setting up a second half matchup with the winner possibly netting the top playoff seed. Our other basketball teams faced stiff competition on the road, and look to bounce back after our Easter break. No basketball activity during Holy Week. Kalo Pascha!

Girls Elementary Last week: St. Nick 2 – Saint Nicholas (SF) 28 Much improved defense since the first match up.

Girls Middle School Last week: St. Nick loss to Ascension With some key players missing, the girls worked really hard with just 5 players.

Boys Elementary Last week: St. Nick loss to Ascension A surge in the second half led by Vassili kept it tight, but couldn’t quite catch up.

Boys Middle School Last week : San Jose loss to Ascension Shorthanded due to key injuries, the boys couldn’t keep up.

Boys High School Last week: St. Nick 53 – Annunciation 39 Impressive win on the quest for a three-peat.

*Games subject to change. Official practice and game schedule will be kept up-to-date on the TeamSnap app. Parents/Players, make sure you are inputting your game availability into the TeamSnap app. ...show less

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

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

Friday, April 3
8:30 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy

Saturday, April 4 - Saturday of Lazarus
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy

Sunday, April 5 — Palm Sunday
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy (followed by Palm Sunday Lunch)
7:00 p.m. Bridegroom Service (Nymphios)

Monday, April 6 - Holy Monday
8:30 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy
7:00 p.m. Bridegroom Service (Nymphios)

Tuesday, April 7 - Holy Tuesday
8:30 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy
7:00 p.m. Bridegroom Service (Nymphios) with His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos

Wednesday, April... show moreSERVICES ARE AVAILABLE BY LIVESTREAM ON YOUTUBE UNDER THE NAME: SAINT NICHOLAS GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH SAN JOSE.

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

Friday, April 3
8:30 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy

Saturday, April 4 - Saturday of Lazarus
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy

Sunday, April 5 — Palm Sunday
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy (followed by Palm Sunday Lunch)
7:00 p.m. Bridegroom Service (Nymphios)

Monday, April 6 - Holy Monday
8:30 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy
7:00 p.m. Bridegroom Service (Nymphios)

Tuesday, April 7 - Holy Tuesday
8:30 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy
7:00 p.m. Bridegroom Service (Nymphios) with His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos

Wednesday, April 8 - Holy Wednesday
8:30 a.m. Presanctified Liturgy
3:00 p.m. Holy Unction (Euchaileon)
7:00 p.m. Orthros of Holy Thursday (The Washing of the Feet) and Anointing

Thursday, April 9 - Holy Thursday
8:30 a.m. Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil (Institution of the Eucharist)
6:30 p.m. Orthros of Holy Friday (Passion Service - 12 Gospels)

Friday, April 10 - Holy and Great Friday
8:30 a.m. Royal Hours of Pascha
2:30 p.m. Apokathilosis (Unnailing from the Cross)
7:00 p.m. Lamentations at the Tomb, Orthros of Holy Saturday

Saturday, April 11 - Holy Saturday
8:30 a.m. Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil (Proti-Anastasi)
11:00 p.m. Canon of Pascha and Resurrection Service

Sunday, April 12 - Great and Holy Pascha
11:00 a.m. Agape Vespers ...show less

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES
SUNDAY, APRIL 5: Sunday School

SUNDAY, APRIL 12: No classes.

2026 ST. NICHOLAS AND PHILOPTOCHOS SCHOLARSHIPS
We are pleased to announce that scholarship applications for our graduating high school seniors are now available. Both the Sunday School Scholarship and the Philoptochos Scholarship may be picked up through the Church Office or the Sunday School Office.

Submission Deadline: Sunday, May 3rd at 5:00 PM

All applications must be submitted by the deadline in order to be considered. Return applications to the Church Office. We encourage all eligible seniors to apply. If you have any questions, please reach out to Vicki Ryan or Laurie Sahines.

Matins Gospel Reading
Palm Sunday
The Reading is from Matthew 21:1-11; 15-17

At that time, when Jesus drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, he sent two disciples, saying to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to me. If any one says anything to you, you shall say, 'The Lord has need of them,' and he will send them immediately." This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying,

"Tell the daughter of Zion,
Behold, your king is coming to you,
humble and mounted on a donkey,
and on a colt, the foal of a donkey."

The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them;... show moreMatins Gospel Reading
Palm Sunday
The Reading is from Matthew 21:1-11; 15-17

At that time, when Jesus drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, he sent two disciples, saying to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to me. If any one says anything to you, you shall say, 'The Lord has need of them,' and he will send them immediately." This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying,

"Tell the daughter of Zion,
Behold, your king is coming to you,
humble and mounted on a donkey,
and on a colt, the foal of a donkey."

The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; they brought the donkey and the colt, and put their garments on them, and he sat thereon. Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. And the crowds that went before him and that followed him shouted, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" And when he entered Jerusalem, all the city was stirred, saying, "Who is this?" And the crowds said, "This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth of Galilee." But when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying out in the temple, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" they were indignant; and they said to him, "Do you hear what they are saying?" And Jesus said to them, "Yes; have you never read,

'Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings,
you have brought perfect praise'?"

And leaving them, he went out of the city to Bethany and lodged there.

Palm Sunday
Κατὰ Ματθαῖον 21:1-11, 15-17

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, ὅτε ἤγγισαν εἰς ῾Ιεροσόλυμα καὶ ἦλθον εἰς Βηθσφαγῆ πρὸς τὸ ὄρος τῶν ἐλαιῶν, τότε ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς ἀπέστειλε δύο μαθητὰςλέγων αὐτοῖς· πορεύθητε εἰς τὴν κώμην τὴν ἀπέναντι ὑμῶν, καὶ εὐθέως εὑρήσετε ὄνον δεδεμένην καὶ πῶλον μετ᾿ αὐτῆς· λύσαντες ἀγάγετέ μοι. καὶ ἐάν τις ὑμῖν εἴπῃ τι, ἐρεῖτε ὅτι ὁ Κύριος αὐτῶν χρείαν ἔχει· εὐθέως δὲ ἀποστέλλει αὐτούς. τοῦτο δὲ ὅλον γέγονεν ἵνα πληρωθῇ τὸ ῥηθὲν διὰ τοῦ προφήτου λέγοντος· εἴπατε τῇ θυγατρὶ Σιών, ἰδοὺ ὁ βασιλεύς σου ἔρχεταί σοιπραῢς καὶ ἐπιβεβηκὼς ἐπὶ ὄνονκαὶ πῶλον υἱὸν ὑποζυγίου. πορευθέντες δὲ οἱ μαθηταὶ καὶ ποιήσαντες καθὼς προσέταξεν αὐτοῖς ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς, ἤγαγον τὴν ὄνον καὶ τὸν πῶλον, καὶ ἐπέθηκαν ἐπάνω αὐτῶν τὰ ἱμάτια αὐτῶν, καὶ ἐπεκάθισεν ἐπάνω αὐτῶν. ὁ δὲ πλεῖστος ὄχλος ἔστρωσαν ἑαυτῶν τὰ ἱμάτια ἐν τῇ ὁδῷ, ἄλλοι δὲ ἔκοπτον κλάδους ἀπὸ τῶν δένδρων καὶ ἐστρώννυον ἐν τῇ ὁδῷ. οἱ δὲ ὄχλοι οἱ προάγοντες καὶ οἱ ἀκολουθοῦντες ἔκραζον λέγοντες· ὡσαννὰ τῷ υἱῷ Δαυΐδ· εὐλογημένος ὁ ἐρχόμενος ἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου· ὡσαννὰ ἐν τοῖς ὑψίστοις. καὶ εἰσελθόντος αὐτοῦ εἰς ῾Ιεροσόλυμα ἐσείσθη πᾶσα ἡ πόλις λέγουσα· τίς ἐστιν οὗτος; οἱ δὲ ὄχλοι ἔλεγον· οὗτός ἔστιν ᾿Ιησοῦς ὁ προφήτης ὁ ἀπὸ Ναζαρὲτ τῆς Γαλιλαίας. ἰδόντες δὲ οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς καὶ οἱ γραμματεῖς τὰ θαυμάσια ἃ ἐποίησε καὶ τοὺς παῖδας κράζοντας ἐν τῷ ἱερῷ καὶ λέγοντας, ὡσαννὰ τῷ υἱῷ Δαυΐδ, ἠγανάκτησανκαὶ εἶπον αὐτῷ· ἀκούεις τί οὗτοι λέγουσιν; ὁ δὲ ᾿Ιησοῦς λέγει αὐτοῖς· ναί· οὐδέποτε ἀνέγνωτε ὅτι ἐκ στόματος νηπίων καὶ θηλαζόντων κατηρτίσω αἶνον; καὶ καταλιπὼν αὐτοὺς ἐξῆλθεν ἔξω τῆς πόλεως εἰς Βηθανίαν καὶ ηὐλίσθη ἐκεῖ.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. 4th Mode. Psalm 117.26,1.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Verse: Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His mercy endures forever.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Philippians 4:4-9.

BRETHREN, rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let all men know your forbearance. The Lord is at hand. Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you.

Προκείμενον. 4th Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 117.26,1.
Εὐλογημένος ὁ ἐρχόμενος ἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου.
Στίχ. Στίχ. Ἐξομολογεῖσθε τῷ Κυρίῳ ὅτι ἀγαθὸς, ὅτι εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα τὸ ἔλεος αὐτοῦ.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Φιλιππησίους 4:4-9.

Ἀδελφοί, χαίρετε ἐν κυρίῳ πάντοτε· πάλιν ἐρῶ, χαίρετε. Τὸ ἐπιεικὲς ὑμῶν γνωσθήτω πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις. Ὁ κύριος ἐγγύς. Μηδὲν μεριμνᾶτε, ἀλλʼ ἐν παντὶ τῇ προσευχῇ καὶ τῇ δεήσει μετὰ εὐχαριστίας τὰ αἰτήματα ὑμῶν γνωριζέσθω πρὸς τὸν θεόν. Καὶ ἡ εἰρήνη τοῦ θεοῦ ἡ ὑπερέχουσα πάντα νοῦν, φρουρήσει τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν καὶ τὰ νοήματα ὑμῶν ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ. Τὸ λοιπόν, ἀδελφοί, ὅσα ἐστὶν ἀληθῆ, ὅσα σεμνά, ὅσα δίκαια, ὅσα ἁγνά, ὅσα προσφιλῆ, ὅσα εὔφημα, εἴ τις ἀρετὴ καὶ εἴ τις ἔπαινος, ταῦτα λογίζεσθε. Ἃ καὶ ἐμάθετε καὶ παρελάβετε καὶ ἠκούσατε καὶ εἴδετε ἐν ἐμοί, ταῦτα πράσσετε· καὶ ὁ θεὸς τῆς εἰρήνης ἔσται μεθʼ ὑμῶν.

Gospel Reading
Palm Sunday
The Reading is from John 12:1-18

Six days before Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazaros was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazaros was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was to betray him), said "Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?" This he said, not that he cared for the poor but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box he used to take what was put into it. Jesus said, "Let her alone, let her keep it for the day of my burial. The poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me."

When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came, not only on account of Jesus but also to see Lazaros, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests planned to put Lazaros also to death, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.

The next day a great crowd who had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" And Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it; as it is written, "Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!" His disciples did not understand this at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that this had been written of him and had been done to him. The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazaros out of the tomb and raised him from the dead bore witness. The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign.

Palm Sunday
Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 12:1-18

Πρὸ ἓξ ἡμερῶν τοῦ πάσχα ἦλθεν Ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς εἰς Βηθανίαν, ὅπου ἦν Λάζαρος ὁ τεθνηκώς, ὃν ἤγειρεν ἐκ νεκρῶν. ἐποίησαν οὖν αὐτῷ δεῖπνον ἐκεῖ, καὶ ἡ Μάρθα διηκόνει· ὁ δὲ Λάζαρος εἷς ἦν τῶν ἀνακειμένων σὺν αὐτῷ. ἡ οὖν Μαρία, λαβοῦσα λίτραν μύρου νάρδου πιστικῆς πολυτίμου, ἤλειψε τοὺς πόδας τοῦ ᾿Ιησοῦ καὶ ἐξέμαξε ταῖς θριξὶν αὐτῆς τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ· ἡ δὲ οἰκία ἐπληρώθη ἐκ τῆς ὀσμῆς τοῦ μύρου. λέγει οὖν εἷς ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ, ᾿Ιούδας Σίμωνος ᾿Ισκαριώτης, ὁ μέλλων αὐτὸν παραδιδόναι· διατί τοῦτο τὸ μύρον οὐκ ἐπράθη τριακοσίων δηναρίων καὶ ἐδόθη πτωχοῖς; εἶπε δὲ τοῦτο οὐχ ὅτι περὶ τῶν πτωχῶν ἔμελεν αὐτῷ, ἀλλ᾽ ὅτι κλέπτης ἦν, καὶ τὸ γλωσσόκομον εἶχε καὶ τὰ βαλλόμενα ἐβάσταζεν. εἶπεν οὖν ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς· ἄφες αὐτήν, εἰς τὴν ἡμέραν τοῦ ἐνταφιασμοῦ μου τετήρηκεν αὐτό. τοὺς πτωχοὺς γὰρ πάντοτε ἔχετε μεθ᾽ ἑαυτῶν, ἐμὲ δὲ οὐ πάντοτε ἔχετε.

῎Εγνω οὖν ὄχλος πολὺς ἐκ τῶν ᾿Ιουδαίων ὅτι ἐκεῖ ἐστι, καὶ ἦλθον οὐ διὰ τὸν ᾿Ιησοῦν μόνον, ἀλλ᾽ ἵνα καὶ τὸν Λάζαρον ἴδωσιν ὃν ἤγειρεν ἐκ νεκρῶν. ἐβουλεύσαντο δὲ οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς ἵνα καὶ τὸν Λάζαρον ἀποκτείνωσιν, ὅτι πολλοὶ δι᾽ αὐτὸν ὑπῆγον τῶν ᾿Ιουδαίων καὶ ἐπίστευον εἰς τὸν ᾿Ιησοῦν.

Τῇ ἐπαύριον ὄχλος πολὺς ὁ ἐλθὼν εἰς τὴν ἑορτήν, ἀκούσαντες ὅτι ἔρχεται ᾿Ιησοῦς εἰς ῾Ιεροσόλυμα, ἔλαβον τὰ βαΐα τῶν φοινίκων καὶ ἐξῆλθον εἰς ὑπάντησιν αὐτῷ, καὶ ἔκραζον· ὡσαννά, εὐλογημένος ὁ ἐρχόμενος ἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου, ὁ βασιλεὺς τοῦ ᾿Ισραήλ. εὑρὼν δὲ ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς ὀνάριον ἐκάθισεν ἐπ᾽ αὐτό, καθώς ἐστι γεγραμμένον· μὴ φοβοῦ, θύγατερ Σιών· ἰδοὺ ὁ βασιλεύς σου ἔρχεται καθήμενος ἐπὶ πῶλον ὄνου.

Ταῦτα δὲ οὐκ ἔγνωσαν οἱ μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ τὸ πρῶτον, ἀλλ᾽ ὅτε ἐδοξάσθη ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς, τότε ἐμνήσθησαν ὅτι ταῦτα ἦν ἐπ᾽ αὐτῷ γεγραμμένα, καὶ ταῦτα ἐποίησαν αὐτῷ. ᾿Εμαρτύρει οὖν ὁ ὄχλος ὁ ὢν μετ᾽ αὐτοῦ ὅτε τὸν Λάζαρον ἐφώνησεν ἐκ τοῦ μνημείου καὶ ἤγειρεν αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν. διὰ τοῦτο καὶ ὑπήντησεν αὐτῷ ὁ ὄχλος, ὅτι ἤκουσαν τοῦτο αὐτὸν πεποιηκέναι τὸ σημεῖον. ...show less

Apolytikion for Palm Sunday in the 1st Mode
In confirming the common Resurrection, O Christ God, Thou didst raise up Lazarus from the dead before Thy Passion. Wherefore, we also, like the children, bearing the symbols of victory, cry to Thee, the Vanquisher of death: Hosanna in the highest; blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord.

Τὴν κοινὴν Ἀνάστασιν πρὸ τοῦ σοῦ Πάθους πιστούμενος, ἐκ νεκρῶν ἤγειρας τὸν Λάζαρον, Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός· ὅθεν καὶ ἡμεῖς ὡς οἱ Παῖδες, τὰ τῆς νίκης σύμβολα φέροντες, σοὶ τῷ Νικητῇ τοῦ θανάτου βοῶμεν· Ὡσαννὰ ἐν... show moreApolytikion for Palm Sunday in the 1st Mode
In confirming the common Resurrection, O Christ God, Thou didst raise up Lazarus from the dead before Thy Passion. Wherefore, we also, like the children, bearing the symbols of victory, cry to Thee, the Vanquisher of death: Hosanna in the highest; blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord.

Τὴν κοινὴν Ἀνάστασιν πρὸ τοῦ σοῦ Πάθους πιστούμενος, ἐκ νεκρῶν ἤγειρας τὸν Λάζαρον, Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός· ὅθεν καὶ ἡμεῖς ὡς οἱ Παῖδες, τὰ τῆς νίκης σύμβολα φέροντες, σοὶ τῷ Νικητῇ τοῦ θανάτου βοῶμεν· Ὡσαννὰ ἐν τοῖς ὑψίστοις, εὐλογημένος ὁ ἐρχόμενος, ἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου.

Apolytikion for Palm Sunday in the 4th Mode
As by baptism we were buried with Thee, O Christ our God, so by Thy Resurrection we were deemed worthy of immortal life; and praising Thee, we cry: Hosanna in the highest; blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord.

Συνταφέντες σοι διὰ τοῦ Βαπτίσματος, Χριστὲ ὁ Θεὸς ἡμῶν, τῆς ἀθανάτου ζωῆς ἠξιώθημεν τῇ Ἀναστάσει σου, καὶ ἀνυμνοῦντες κράζομεν· Ὡσαννὰ ἐν τοῖς ὑψίστοις, εὐλογημένος ὁ ἐρχόμενος, ἐν ὀνόματι Κυρίου.

Seasonal Kontakion in the Plagal 2nd Mode
In Heaven, He is seated upon a Throne and on earth He rides upon a foal. O Christ our God, accept the praise of the Angels and the hymn of the Children who cry out to You, "Blessed are You who comes to recall Adam."

Τῷ θρόνῳ ἐν οὐρανῷ, τῷ πώλῳ ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς, ἐποχούμενος Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, τῶν Ἀγγέλων τὴν αἴνεσιν, καὶ τῶν Παίδων ἀνύμνησιν προσεδέξω βοώντων σοι· Εὐλογημένος εἶ ὁ ἐρχόμενος, τὸν Ἀδὰμ ἀνακαλέσασθαι. ...show less