December 07

Ambrose, Bishop of Milan

This Saint was born in Gaul in 340, and was a member of the Roman Senate. After the death of Auxentius, the Arian Bishop of Milan, a violent dispute arose among the Orthodox and Arians about who would succeed him. Ambrose, desiring as Governor of the province to restore the peace, attempted to mediate between them.

As he spoke to the people, eloquently persuading them to elect a new bishop without tumult and disorder, a young child, inspired from on... show moreDecember 07

Ambrose, Bishop of Milan

This Saint was born in Gaul in 340, and was a member of the Roman Senate. After the death of Auxentius, the Arian Bishop of Milan, a violent dispute arose among the Orthodox and Arians about who would succeed him. Ambrose, desiring as Governor of the province to restore the peace, attempted to mediate between them.

As he spoke to the people, eloquently persuading them to elect a new bishop without tumult and disorder, a young child, inspired from on high, suddenly cried out "Ambrose, bishop!" To his astonishment and dismay, the people immediately took up this cry themselves, and over his many protests, he was raised to the episcopal throne of Milan on December 7, 374.

A great Father of the Church, he wrote many works in Latin, and was both an unwearying opponent of Arianism, and a fearless accuser of emperors when they transgressed the law of God. Having lived fifty-seven years, he reposed on April 4, on the eve of Pascha, in the year 397. ...show less

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

MEMBERS OF ST. ANNA PHILOPTOCHOS WHO HAVE FALLEN ASLEEP IN THE LORD

May their memory be eternal

ARTOKLASIA (Blessing of the Five Loaves) in honor of Saint Anna (Dec 9), the mother of our beloved Theotokos and the patron saint of St. Anna Philoptochos, is offered by the members of St. Anna Philoptochos for the health and well-being of all the families our St. Nicholas parish.

Friday,... show moreSUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

MEMBERS OF ST. ANNA PHILOPTOCHOS WHO HAVE FALLEN ASLEEP IN THE LORD

May their memory be eternal

ARTOKLASIA (Blessing of the Five Loaves) in honor of Saint Anna (Dec 9), the mother of our beloved Theotokos and the patron saint of St. Anna Philoptochos, is offered by the members of St. Anna Philoptochos for the health and well-being of all the families our St. Nicholas parish.

Friday, December 12, 2025

ARTOKLASIA (Blessing of the Five Loaves) in honor of St. Spyridion the Wonderworker will be offered by Eleni Armeniakos for the health and well-being of her family and all the families of our St. Nicholas Parish.

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Anthea Antoniou, Marianthi Maroudas, Dina Panagopoulos, Elena Polychronopoulos, and Katerina Polychronopoulos 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 December 14, 2025: St. Dionysios Group ...show less

YOU'RE INVITED! SAINT NICHOLAS FEAST DAY CELEBRATION
Please join us for the Feast Day of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker!

Friday, December 5, 2025

7:00pm – Great Vespers and Artoklasia presided by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos

St. Anna Philoptochos welcomes all to a Lenten Potluck Reception in the Small Hall.

Saturday, December 6, 2025

8:30am - Orthros

9:30am – Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and Artoklasia presided by His Eminence Met. Gerasimos

The Golden Years welcomes... show moreYOU'RE INVITED! SAINT NICHOLAS FEAST DAY CELEBRATION
Please join us for the Feast Day of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker!

Friday, December 5, 2025

7:00pm – Great Vespers and Artoklasia presided by His Eminence Metropolitan Gerasimos

St. Anna Philoptochos welcomes all to a Lenten Potluck Reception in the Small Hall.

Saturday, December 6, 2025

8:30am - Orthros

9:30am – Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and Artoklasia presided by His Eminence Met. Gerasimos

The Golden Years welcomes all to a special coffee hour following the service.

ST. NICHOLAS BIBLE STUDY - THURSDAY MORNINGS
CANCELLED: Thursday, December 11th

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

CHRISTIANITY 101: HERETICS AND SAINTS OF THE EARLY CHURCH
Join us Monday nights for Paraklisis at 5pm followed by a Christianity 101 course taught by Fr. Nebojsa Pantic at 6:15 pm.

This semester we will illustrate how the early church was formed, the foundation of the “cult of the saints” as well as how the church faced early heresies and heretics, leading up the 1st Ecumenical Council. The course will cover a very generalized look at the first 300 years of the early church, its history, and its implications on our life today. All are welcome to attend this HYBRID course in-person or on zoom:

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

Meeting ID: 708 436 2224 ...show less

ST. NICHOLAS NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY!
New year, new memories - let's make them together! Save the date for December 31st, 7pm to 1am in the Community Center.

Join us as we welcome the New Year 2026 with faith, fellowship, and fun! Let's gather as one community to celebrate the blessings of the past year and embrace the joy ahead. Spectacular family style dinner and refreshments provided. Music, games, dancing and midnight toast! Bring your loved ones, your dancing shoes, and your... show moreST. NICHOLAS NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY!
New year, new memories - let's make them together! Save the date for December 31st, 7pm to 1am in the Community Center.

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

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

GOYA
GOYA meeting on Sunday, 12/7 from 11:30am-12:15pm in Room 11A. We will be preparing 100 Angel Gift bags for delivery to Child Advocates Silicon Valley.

GOYA Christmas Caroling on Saturday, 12/20 from 10am - 2pm. Join as we carol to our local Saint Nicholas elder community members. More details to follow.

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

PHILOPTOCHOS CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
St. Anna Philoptochos invites you to attend their annual Chirstmas Luncheon on Saturday, December 13th, 2025 at 11:30am at the Boulder Ridge Golf Club. Tickets now available at Sunday coffee hour and end December 1st. Adults are $75 and children 12 and under are $30. Space is limited! Tickets will be sold at Sunday Coffee Hour. See the flyer in the "Special Events" section of this e-bulletin for more information.

DOP
If you are interested in contributing and/or participating in our philanthropic initiative, please see below!

December 13, 2025 – Next Door Solutions’ Annual Winter Open House – DOP will host a booth to benefiting domestic violence survivors and their children*
DOP is accepting new children’s books, new stuffed animals, and stocking stuffers to be gifted
*DOP invites middle and high school students to join in hosting this booth, community service hours will be given (please contact sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com for further information)

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT
The annual Christmas Pageant will be on Saturday, December 20th at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church: 5:00pm – 6:00pm Vespers; 6:00pm – 6:30pm Christmas Pageant (Sunday School, Greek School and Choir Ministries), and 6:30pm – 8:00pm dinner and a special guest. All parishioners are invited. Looking forward to seeing you there! (See the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin).


VASILOPITA SALE - DECEMBER 28TH
St. Anna Philoptochos will be selling Vasilopites on Sunday, December 28th during Coffee Hour.

Please also note deadline for the Philoptochos Christmas lunch has been extended to Thursday, December 4th. Contact Laurie at (408) 823-0111 or email laurie.sahines@gmail.com

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

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

YOUTH BASKETBALL - WINTER CLINICS HAVE BEGUN!
The St Nicholas youth basketball program is starting up for the '25-'26 season. We will be holding our weekly Winter Clinics open to 3rd grade through HS for boys and girls of all experience levels. Clinics focus on basketball fundamentals as well as open gym play. The Boys clinic will begin Tuesday October 28th from 6:45-7:45. The Girls clinic will begin Thursday October 30th from 5:30-6:30. The Winter Clinic schedule, subject to change, is below. Any changes will be noted in this weekly bulletin.

Boys on Tuesdays 6:45-7:30 Oct 28th, Nov 4th, Nov 11th, Nov 18th, Dec 9th, Dec 16th (may be cancelled pending interest)

Girls all times 5:30-6:30 on Thur Oct 30th, Thur Nov 6th, Thur Nov 13th, Wed Nov 19th, Thurs Dec 11th, Wed Dec 17th (may be cancelled pending interest)

In preparation for the spring season, we will start team practices in January. Last year we fielded 5 teams: Boys and Girls Elementary, Boys and Girls Middle School, and Boys High School with over 40 participants. Congrats to our Elementary Girls and High School Boys on winning the League Championship! The Orthodox Youth Athletic Association is a recreational league with other Orthodox churches in the Bay Area with games typically on Sunday afternoons starting soon after FDF in February. We look forward to another fun and successful season. To register: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. If you have any questions, please contact John Cocoles at basketball@saintnicholas.org or jcocoles5@gmail.com

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

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

Adult Open Gym guidelines:

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

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

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

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

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

Friday, December 5
7:00 p.m. Vespers for St. Nicholas (followed by potluck reception)

Saturday, December 6 - St. Nicholas the Wonderworker
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom (followed by coffee hour)

Sunday, December 7 - 10th Sunday of Luke
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, December 5
7:00 p.m. Vespers for St. Nicholas (followed by potluck reception)

Saturday, December 6 - St. Nicholas the Wonderworker
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom (followed by coffee hour)

Sunday, December 7 - 10th Sunday of Luke
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, December 8
5:00 p.m. Paraklesis

Tuesday, December 9 - The Conception of the Theotokos; St. Anna the Prophetess
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Friday, December 12 - St. Spyridon the Wonderworker
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, December 14 - 11th Sunday of Luke
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

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

Online Links to the Text of Church Services:

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

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

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

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

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

SUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES
· Sunday School: November 23, December 14, December 21

· No Sunday School: November 30, December 7

· Christmas Pageant: Saturday, December 20 — begins with Vespers at 5:00 pm

· New Year Start: Sunday School resumes January 11, 2026

METROPOLIS SUMMER CAMP STAFF - APPLY NOW!
Applications are now open for the 2026 Metropolis Summer Camp at St. Nicholas Ranch and Retreat Center. This is an incredible opportunity for faithful and motivated young... show moreSUNDAY SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATES
· Sunday School: November 23, December 14, December 21

· No Sunday School: November 30, December 7

· Christmas Pageant: Saturday, December 20 — begins with Vespers at 5:00 pm

· New Year Start: Sunday School resumes January 11, 2026

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

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

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

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

Greek Folk Dance

Register for the 2025-2026 Dance program here:

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

Greek School

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

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

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

Greek Folk Dance

Register for the 2025-2026 Dance program here:

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

Greek School

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

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

Basketball

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

Altar Servers:

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

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

GOYA

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

JOY/HOPE

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

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


GREEK PASTRIES, KOLLYVA, ARTOKLASIA & PROSPHORA
If you wish to order kollyva, artoklasia, prosphora, paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, or other Greek pastries, please see the bakers listed below with their phone numbers to call. Payment is arranged with the bakers and not the church.

For kollyva: Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124

For paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, and other Greek pastries: Maria Tsaboukos 408-723-5175 Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888 Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124.

For artoklasia: Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888 Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124

For prosphora: Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124 ...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... 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. 1st Mode. Psalm 32.22,1.
Let your mercy, O Lord, be upon us.
Verse: Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Ephesians 5:8-19.

Brethren, walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is a shame even to speak of the things that they do in secret; but when anything is exposed by the light it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it is said, "Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light." Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart.

Προκείμενον. 1st Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 32.22,1.
Γένοιτο, Κύριε, τὸ ἔλεός σου ἐφ' ἡμᾶς.
Στίχ. Ἀγαλλιᾶσθε δίκαιοι ἐν Κυρίῳ

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Ἐφεσίους 5:8-19.

Ἀδελφοί, ὡς τέκνα φωτὸς περιπατεῖτε - ὁ γὰρ καρπὸς τοῦ πνεύματος ἐν πάσῃ ἀγαθωσύνῃ καὶ δικαιοσύνῃ καὶ ἀληθείᾳ - δοκιμάζοντες τί ἐστιν εὐάρεστον τῷ κυρίῳ· καὶ μὴ συγκοινωνεῖτε τοῖς ἔργοις τοῖς ἀκάρποις τοῦ σκότους, μᾶλλον δὲ καὶ ἐλέγχετε· τὰ γὰρ κρυφῆ γινόμενα ὑπʼ αὐτῶν αἰσχρόν ἐστιν καὶ λέγειν. Τὰ δὲ πάντα ἐλεγχόμενα ὑπὸ τοῦ φωτὸς φανεροῦται· πᾶν γὰρ τὸ φανερούμενον φῶς ἐστίν. Διὸ λέγει, Ἔγειρε ὁ καθεύδων καὶ ἀνάστα ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν, καὶ ἐπιφαύσει σοι ὁ Χριστός. Βλέπετε οὖν πῶς ἀκριβῶς περιπατεῖτε, μὴ ὡς ἄσοφοι, ἀλλʼ ὡς σοφοί, ἐξαγοραζόμενοι τὸν καιρόν, ὅτι αἱ ἡμέραι πονηραί εἰσιν. Διὰ τοῦτο μὴ γίνεσθε ἄφρονες, ἀλλὰ συνιέντες τί τὸ θέλημα τοῦ κυρίου. Καὶ μὴ μεθύσκεσθε οἴνῳ, ἐν ᾧ ἐστὶν ἀσωτία, ἀλλὰ πληροῦσθε ἐν πνεύματι, λαλοῦντες ἑαυτοῖς ψαλμοῖς καὶ ὕμνοις καὶ ᾠδαῖς πνευματικαῖς, ᾄδοντες καὶ ψάλλοντες ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμῶν τῷ κυρίῳ.

Gospel Reading
10th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 13:10-17

At that time, Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years; she was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. And when Jesus saw her, he called her and said to her, "Woman, you are freed from your infirmity." And he laid his hands upon her, and immediately she was made straight, and she praised God. But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the sabbath, said to the people, "There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be healed, and not on the sabbath day." Then the Lord answered him, "You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger, and lead it away to water it? And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?" As he said this, all his adversaries were put to shame; and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.

10th Sunday of Luke
Κατὰ Λουκᾶν 13:10-17

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, ῏Ην δὲ διδάσκων ἐν μιᾷ τῶν συναγωγῶν ἐν τοῖς σάββασι. καὶ ἰδοὺ γυνὴ ἦν πνεῦμα ἔχουσα ἀσθενείας ἔτη δέκα καὶ ὀκτώ, καὶ ἦν συγκύπτουσα καὶ μὴ δυναμένη ἀνακῦψαι εἰς τὸ παντελές. ἰδὼν δὲ αὐτὴν ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς προσεφώνησε καὶ εἶπεν αὐτῇ· γύναι, ἀπολέλυσαι τῆς ἀσθενείας σου· καὶ ἐπέθηκεν αὐτῇ τὰς χεῖρας· καὶ παραχρῆμα ἀνωρθώθη καὶ ἐδόξαζε τὸν Θεόν. ἀποκριθεὶς δὲ ὁ ἀρχισυνάγωγος, ἀγανακτῶν ὅτι τῷ σαββάτῳ ἐθεράπευσεν ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς, ἔλεγε τῷ ὄχλῳ· ἓξ ἡμέραι εἰσὶν ἐν αἷς δεῖ ἐργάζεσθαι· ἐν ταύταις οὖν ἐρχόμενοι θεραπεύεσθε, καὶ μὴ τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τοῦ σαββάτου. ἀπεκρίθη οὖν αὐτῷ ὁ Κύριος καὶ εἶπεν· ὑποκριτά, ἕκαστος ὑμῶν τῷ σαββάτῳ οὐ λύει τὸν βοῦν αὐτοῦ ἢ τὸν ὄνον ἀπὸ τῆς φάτνης καὶ ἀπαγαγὼν ποτίζει; ταύτην δέ, θυγατέρα ᾿Αβραὰμ οὖσαν, ἣν ἔδησεν ὁ σατανᾶς ἰδοὺ δέκα καὶ ὀκτὼ ἔτη, οὐκ ἔδει λυθῆναι ἀπὸ τοῦ δεσμοῦ τούτου τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τοῦ σαββάτου; καὶ ταῦτα λέγοντος αὐτοῦ κατῃσχύνοντο πάντες οἱ ἀντικείμενοι αὐτῷ, καὶ πᾶς ὁ ὄχλος ἔχαιρεν ἐπὶ πᾶσι τοῖς ἐνδόξοις τοῖς γινομένοις ὑπ᾿ αὐτοῦ.
ῆναι, παιδίον νέον, τὸν πρὸ αἰώνων Θεόν. ...show less

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

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

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

Apolytikion 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 3rd Mode
On this day the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth to * God the Word ineffably, * Who was before all the ages. * Dance for joy, O earth, on hearing * the gladsome tidings; * with the Angels and the shepherds now glorify Him * Who is willing to be gazed on * as a young Child Who * before the ages is God.

Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον, τὸν Προαιώνιον Λόγον, ἐν Σπηλαίῳ ἔρχεται, ἀποτεκεῖν ἀπορρήτως. Χόρευε ἡ οἰκουμένη ἀκουτισθεῖσα, δόξασον μετὰ Ἀγγέλων καὶ τῶν Ποιμένων, βουληθέντα ἐποφθῆναι, παιδίον νέον, τὸν πρὸ αἰώνων Θεόν. ...show less

Become a Faith Forward Steward Today!

Faith is the foundation upon which everything in our lives is built. It is not only belief, but a living and growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Faith is trust in God’s love and His divine plan, even when we cannot see the way forward. It is the light that guides our hearts, the courage that strengthens our service, and the hope that unites us as the Body of Christ, the Church.

Our faith is not meant to stand still. It calls us to live actively in... show moreBecome a Faith Forward Steward Today!

Faith is the foundation upon which everything in our lives is built. It is not only belief, but a living and growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Faith is trust in God’s love and His divine plan, even when we cannot see the way forward. It is the light that guides our hearts, the courage that strengthens our service, and the hope that unites us as the Body of Christ, the Church.

Our faith is not meant to stand still. It calls us to live actively in Christ, to care for one another, and to nurture the spiritual life of our communities. It calls us to move forward together.

Through Faith Forward, you can help make this vision a reality. Your stewardship sustains the ministries of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco and supports our essential operations that work in tandem with our ministries. Together these funds strengthen parishes, empower clergy, equip leaders, and ensure that resources are available to bring the Gospel to life in every region we serve.

Every gift, large or small, becomes a living expression of faith that uplifts lives, advances ministry, and ensures that our Metropolis continues to grow in grace and purpose.

https://sanfran.goarch.org/donate ...show less

November 30

Andrew the First- Called Apostle

This Saint was from Bethsaida of Galilee; he was the son of Jonas and the brother of Peter, the chief of the Apostles. He had first been a disciple of John the Baptist; afterwards, on hearing the Baptist's witness concerning Jesus, when he pointed Him out with his finger and said, "Behold the Lamb of God, Which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1.29,36), he straightway followed Christ, and became His first disciple; wherefore he... show moreNovember 30

Andrew the First- Called Apostle

This Saint was from Bethsaida of Galilee; he was the son of Jonas and the brother of Peter, the chief of the Apostles. He had first been a disciple of John the Baptist; afterwards, on hearing the Baptist's witness concerning Jesus, when he pointed Him out with his finger and said, "Behold the Lamb of God, Which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1.29,36), he straightway followed Christ, and became His first disciple; wherefore he is called the First-called of the Apostles. After the Ascension of the Saviour, he preached in various lands; and having suffered many things for His Name's sake, he died in Patras of Achaia, where he was crucified on a cross in the shape of an "X," the first letter of "Christ" in Greek; this cross is also the symbol of Saint Andrew. ...show less

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

EUGENIA MITCHELL (1 YR), wife of Dean Mitchell

May their memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Pam Demertzis, Roula Demertzis, Pauline Ferrant, and Elizabeth Fkiaras 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 December 7,... show moreSUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

EUGENIA MITCHELL (1 YR), wife of Dean Mitchell

May their memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Pam Demertzis, Roula Demertzis, Pauline Ferrant, and Elizabeth Fkiaras 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 December 7, 2025: Anthea Antoniou, Marianthi Maroudas, Dina Panagopoulos, Elena Polychronopoulos, and Katerina Polychronopoulos

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

ST. NICHOLAS BIBLE STUDY - THURSDAY MORNINGS
CANCELLED: Thursday, December 4th

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

CHRISTIANITY 101: HERETICS AND SAINTS OF THE EARLY CHURCH
Join us Monday nights for Paraklisis at 5pm followed by a Christianity 101 course taught by Fr. Nebojsa... show moreST. NICHOLAS BIBLE STUDY - THURSDAY MORNINGS
CANCELLED: Thursday, December 4th

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

CHRISTIANITY 101: HERETICS AND SAINTS OF THE EARLY CHURCH
Join us Monday nights for Paraklisis at 5pm followed by a Christianity 101 course taught by Fr. Nebojsa Pantic at 6:15 pm.

This semester we will illustrate how the early church was formed, the foundation of the “cult of the saints” as well as how the church faced early heresies and heretics, leading up the 1st Ecumenical Council. The course will cover a very generalized look at the first 300 years of the early church, its history, and its implications on our life today. All are welcome to attend this HYBRID course in-person or on zoom:

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

Meeting ID: 708 436 2224 ...show less

ST. NICHOLAS GALA - SAT. DEC 6TH - SEND YOUR RESPONSE CARDS
We can’t wait to celebrate with you at the 2025 Saint Nicholas Gala!
Please RSVP by submitting your card and payment after Liturgy during coffee hour, or mail it in with payment. Seating will be limited, so don’t delay!

Join us as we celebrate the spirit of Saint Nicholas and 80 years of grace in our beloved parish! Saturday, December 6th, in the evening—it will be a night to remember, filled with gratitude, celebration, and... show moreST. NICHOLAS GALA - SAT. DEC 6TH - SEND YOUR RESPONSE CARDS
We can’t wait to celebrate with you at the 2025 Saint Nicholas Gala!
Please RSVP by submitting your card and payment after Liturgy during coffee hour, or mail it in with payment. Seating will be limited, so don’t delay!

Join us as we celebrate the spirit of Saint Nicholas and 80 years of grace in our beloved parish! Saturday, December 6th, in the evening—it will be a night to remember, filled with gratitude, celebration, and community spirit.

GOT A BUSINESS OR CRAFT?
Got a business or a craft? We’d love your support for our 80th Anniversary Gala! We’re collecting items, gift cards, and services for our silent auction & raffle.

👉 If you’d like to donate, please contact Penny Pagonis or Eva Vathis at events@saintnicholas.org.
Your generosity will help support the parishioners of our church—thank you!

GOYA
GOYA meeting on Sunday, 12/7 from 11:30am-12:15pm in Room 11A. We will be preparing 100 Angel Gift bags for delivery to Child Advocates Silicon Valley.

GOYA Christmas Caroling on Saturday, 12/20 from 10am - 2pm. Join as we carol to our local Saint Nicholas elder community members. More details to follow.

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

GOLDEN YEARS CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
The Golden Years Christmas Luncheon is on December 9th 2025 at 1:00 pm at Jack’s Restaurant, 1502 Saratoga Avenue, San Jose, CA 95129.

Tickets will be sold after Church on Sundays until December 1st or call Antonia Komianos at 408-472-3888.

PHILOPTOCHOS CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
St. Anna Philoptochos invites you to attend their annual Chirstmas Luncheon on Saturday, December 13th, 2025 at 11:30am at the Boulder Ridge Golf Club. Tickets now available at Sunday coffee hour and end December 1st. Adults are $75 and children 12 and under are $30. Space is limited! Tickets will be sold at Sunday Coffee Hour. See the flyer in the "Special Events" section of this e-bulletin for more information.

DOP
If you are interested in contributing and/or participating in our philanthropic initiative, please see below!

December 13, 2025 – Next Door Solutions’ Annual Winter Open House – DOP will host a booth to benefiting domestic violence survivors and their children*
DOP is accepting new children’s books, new stuffed animals, and stocking stuffers to be gifted
*DOP invites middle and high school students to join in hosting this booth, community service hours will be given (please contact sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com for further information)

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT
The annual Christmas Pageant will be on Saturday, December 20th at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church: 5:00pm – 6:00pm Vespers; 6:00pm – 6:30pm Christmas Pageant (Sunday School, Greek School and Choir Ministries), and 6:30pm – 8:00pm dinner and a special guest. All parishioners are invited. Looking forward to seeing you there! (See the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin).

NEW YEAR'S EVE - SAVE THE DATE!
New year, new memories - let's make them together! Save the date for December 31st, 7pm to 1am.

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

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

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

YOUTH BASKETBALL - WINTER CLINICS HAVE BEGUN!
The St Nicholas youth basketball program is starting up for the '25-'26 season. We will be holding our weekly Winter Clinics open to 3rd grade through HS for boys and girls of all experience levels. Clinics focus on basketball fundamentals as well as open gym play. The Boys clinic will begin Tuesday October 28th from 6:45-7:45. The Girls clinic will begin Thursday October 30th from 5:30-6:30. The Winter Clinic schedule, subject to change, is below. Any changes will be noted in this weekly bulletin.

Boys on Tuesdays 6:45-7:30 Oct 28th, Nov 4th, Nov 11th, Nov 18th, Dec 2nd, Dec 9th

Girls all times 5:30-6:30 on Thur Oct 30th, Thur Nov 6th, Thur Nov 13th, Wed Nov 19th, Wed Dec 3rd, Wed Dec 10th

No Clinics Thanksgiving Week!

In preparation for the spring season, we will start team practices in January. Last year we fielded 5 teams: Boys and Girls Elementary, Boys and Girls Middle School, and Boys High School with over 40 participants. Congrats to our Elementary Girls and High School Boys on winning the League Championship! The Orthodox Youth Athletic Association is a recreational league with other Orthodox churches in the Bay Area with games typically on Sunday afternoons starting soon after FDF in February. We look forward to another fun and successful season. To register: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. If you have any questions, please contact John Cocoles at basketball@saintnicholas.org or jcocoles5@gmail.com

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

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

Adult Open Gym guidelines:

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

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

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

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

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

Sunday, November 30 - Andrew the First Called Apostle
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, December 1
5:00 p.m. Paraklesis

Thursday, December 4 - St. Barbara the Great Martyr
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Friday,... 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/

Sunday, November 30 - Andrew the First Called Apostle
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, December 1
5:00 p.m. Paraklesis

Thursday, December 4 - St. Barbara the Great Martyr
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Friday, December 5
7:00 p.m. Vespers for St. Nicholas

Saturday, December 6 - St. Nicholas the Wonderworker
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, December 7 - 10th Sunday of Luke
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

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

Online Links to the Text of Church Services:

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

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

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

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

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

DOP DISPATCH
DOP is pleased to share our latest news with our Saint Nicholas community. Celebratory events were held at Holy Trinity Center, San Francisco, and at the Crowne Plaza in Foster City, on Friday, November 14th and Saturday, November 15th in recognition of the 96th Founder’s Day anniversary. We were honored to welcome and host Grand President Antoinette Marousis-Zachariades, joining us all the way from New Jersey!

During the closing months of 2025, DOP continues to strive to meet... show moreDOP DISPATCH
DOP is pleased to share our latest news with our Saint Nicholas community. Celebratory events were held at Holy Trinity Center, San Francisco, and at the Crowne Plaza in Foster City, on Friday, November 14th and Saturday, November 15th in recognition of the 96th Founder’s Day anniversary. We were honored to welcome and host Grand President Antoinette Marousis-Zachariades, joining us all the way from New Jersey!

During the closing months of 2025, DOP continues to strive to meet its commitment to be a contributor to our community. In doing so, we are pleased to share the following :

Saint Nicholas Angel Tree (November 2025) – Sponsor in the amount of $300

Next Door Solutions’ Annual Winter Open House (December 13, 2025) – Contribution of $1,000, including the donation of books and stuffed animals
Saint Nicholas (November 2025) -Contribute Safeway Gift Cards totaling $200
A heartfelt thank you is extended to our sisters and DOP supporters for making this happen! Our guiding mission is promoting Hellenism, education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, family, and individual excellence. If these principles appeal to you, please contemplate joining DOP by contacting us at: maryann@devetzis.com, or sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com

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

Greek Folk Dance

Register for the 2025-2026 Dance program here:

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

Greek School

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

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

Basketball

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

Altar Servers:

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

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

GOYA

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

JOY/HOPE

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

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

GREEK PASTRIES, KOLLYVA, ARTOKLASIA & PROSPHORA
If you wish to order kollyva, artoklasia, prosphora, paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, or other Greek pastries, please see the bakers listed below with their phone numbers to call. Payment is arranged with the bakers and not the church.

For kollyva: Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124

For paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, and other Greek pastries: Maria Tsaboukos 408-723-5175 Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888 Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124.

For artoklasia: Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888 Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124

For prosphora: Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124 ...show less

Matins Gospel Reading
Third Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Mark 16:9-20

When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom He had cast out seven demons. She went and told those who had been with Him, as they mourned and wept. But when they heard that He was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it.

After this he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. And they went back and told the... show moreMatins Gospel Reading
Third Orthros Gospel
The Reading is from Mark 16:9-20

When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom He had cast out seven demons. She went and told those who had been with Him, as they mourned and wept. But when they heard that He was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it.

After this he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. And they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them. After this He appeared to the eleven themselves as they sat at table and He upbraided them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw Him after He had risen. And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: in My name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover."

So then the Lord Jesus, after He had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by the signs that attended it. Amen.

Third Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Μᾶρκον 16:9-20

Ἀναστὰς ὁ Ἰησοῦς πρωῒ πρώτῃ Σαββάτου ἐφάνη πρῶτον Μαρίᾳ τῇ Μαγδαληνῇ, ἀφ' ἧς ἐκβεβλήκει ἑπτὰ δαιμόνια. Ἐκείνη πορευθεῖσα ἀπήγγειλε τοῖς μετ' αὐτοῦ γενομένοις, πενθοῦσι καὶ κλαίουσι. Κᾀκεῖνοι ἀκούσαντες ὅτι ζῇ καὶ ἐθεάθη ὑπ' αὐτῆς ἠπίστησαν. Μετὰ δὲ ταῦτα δυσὶν ἐξ αὐτῶν περιπατοῦσιν ἐφανερώθη ἐν ἑτέρᾳ μορφῇ, πορευομένοις, εἰς ἀγρόν. Κᾀκεῖνοι ἀπελθόντες ἀπήγγειλαν τοῖς λοιποῖς, οὐδὲ ἐκείνοις ἐπίστευσαν. Ὕστερον, ἀνακειμένοις αὐτοῖς τοῖς ἕνδεκα ἐφανερώθη, καὶ ὠνείδισε τὴν ἀπιστίαν αὐτῶν καὶ σκληροκαρδίαν, ὅτι τοῖς θεασαμένοις αὐτὸν ἐγηγερμένον, οὐκ ἐπίστευσαν. Καὶ εἶπεν αὐτοῖς· Πορευθέντες εἰς τὸν κόσμον ἅπαντα, κηρύξατε τὸ εὐαγγέλιον πάσῃ τῇ κτίσει. Ὁ πιστεύσας καὶ βαπτισθείς, σωθήσεται, ὁ δὲ ἀπιστήσας, κατακριθήσεται. Σημεῖα δὲ τοῖς πιστεύσασι ταῦτα παρακολουθήσει. Ἐν τῷ ὀνόματί μου δαιμόνια ἐκβαλοῦσι, γλώσσαις λαλήσουσι καιναῖς, ὄφεις ἀροῦσι, κἂν θανάσιμόν τι πίωσιν, οὐ μὴ αὐτοὺς βλάψει, ἐπὶ ἀῤῥώστους χεῖρας ἐπιθήσουσι, καὶ καλῶς ἕξουσιν. Ὁ μὲν οὖν Κύριος, μετὰ τὸ λαλῆσαι αὐτοῖς, ἀνελήφθη εἰς τὸν οὐρανόν, καὶ ἐκάθισεν ἐκ δεξιῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ. Ἐκεῖνοι δὲ ἐξελθόντες, ἐκήρυξαν πανταχοῦ, τοῦ Κυρίου συνεργοῦντος, καὶ τὸν λόγον βεβαιοῦντος, διὰ τῶν ἐπακολουθούντων σημείων. Ἀμήν.

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Plagal 4th Mode. Psalm 18.4,1.
Their voice has gone out into all the earth.
Verse: The heavens declare the glory of God.

The reading is from St. Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians 4:9-16.

Brethren, God has exhibited us apostles as last of all, like men sentenced to death; because we have become a spectacle to the world, to angels and to men. We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are held in honor, but we in disrepute. To the present hour we hunger and thirst, we are ill-clad and buffeted and homeless, and we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we try to conciliate; we have become, and are now, as the refuse of the world, the off-scouring of all things. I do not write this to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my beloved children. For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. I urge you, then, be imitators of me.

Προκείμενον. Plagal 4th Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 18.4,1.
Εἰς πᾶσαν τὴν γῆν ἐξῆλθεν ὁ φθόγγος αὐτῶν.
Στίχ. Οἱ οὐρανοὶ διηγοῦνται δόξαν Θεοῦ.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Κορινθίους α' 4:9-16.

Ἀδελφοί, ὁ θεὸς ἡμᾶς τοὺς ἀποστόλους ἐσχάτους ἀπέδειξεν ὡς ἐπιθανατίους· ὅτι θέατρον ἐγενήθημεν τῷ κόσμῳ, καὶ ἀγγέλοις, καὶ ἀνθρώποις. Ἡμεῖς μωροὶ διὰ Χριστόν, ὑμεῖς δὲ φρόνιμοι ἐν Χριστῷ· ἡμεῖς ἀσθενεῖς, ὑμεῖς δὲ ἰσχυροί· ὑμεῖς ἔνδοξοι, ἡμεῖς δὲ ἄτιμοι. Ἄχρι τῆς ἄρτι ὥρας καὶ πεινῶμεν, καὶ διψῶμεν, καὶ γυμνητεύομεν, καὶ κολαφιζόμεθα, καὶ ἀστατοῦμεν, καὶ κοπιῶμεν ἐργαζόμενοι ταῖς ἰδίαις χερσίν· λοιδορούμενοι εὐλογοῦμεν· διωκόμενοι ἀνεχόμεθα· βλασφημούμενοι παρακαλοῦμεν· ὡς περικαθάρματα τοῦ κόσμου ἐγενήθημεν, πάντων περίψημα ἕως ἄρτι. Οὐκ ἐντρέπων ὑμᾶς γράφω ταῦτα, ἀλλʼ ὡς τέκνα μου ἀγαπητὰ νουθετῶ. Ἐὰν γὰρ μυρίους παιδαγωγοὺς ἔχητε ἐν Χριστῷ, ἀλλʼ οὐ πολλοὺς πατέρας· ἐν γὰρ Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ἐγὼ ὑμᾶς ἐγέννησα. Παρακαλῶ οὖν ὑμᾶς, μιμηταί μου γίνεσθε.

Gospel Reading
Andrew the First- Called Apostle
The Reading is from John 1:35-51

At that time, John was standing with two of his disciples; and he looked at Jesus as he walked, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, "What do you seek?" And they said to him, "Rabbi" (which means Teacher), "Where are you staying?" He said to them, "Come and see." They came and saw where he was staying; and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. One of the two who heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. He first found his brother Simon, and said to him, "We have found the Messiah" (which means Christ). He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him, and said, "So you are Simon the son of John? You shall be called Cephas" (which means Peter).

The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. And he found Philip and said to him, "Follow me." Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, "We have found him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile! " Nathanael said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!" Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these." And he said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man."

Andrew the First- Called Apostle
Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 1:35-52

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, εἱστήκει ὁ ᾽Ιωάννης καὶ ἐκ τῶν μαθητῶν αὐτοῦ δύο, καὶ ἐμβλέψας τῷ ᾽Ιησοῦ περιπατοῦντι λέγει, ῎Ιδε ὁ ἀμνὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ. Καὶ ἤκουσαν οἱ δύο μαθηταὶ αὐτοῦ λαλοῦντος καὶ ἠκολούθησαν τῷ ᾽Ιησοῦ. Στραφεὶς δὲ ὁ ᾽Ιησοῦς καὶ θεασάμενος αὐτοὺς ἀκολουθοῦντας λέγει αὐτοῖς, Τί ζητεῖτε; οἱ δὲ εἶπαν αὐτῷ, ῾Ραββί (ὃ λέγεται μεθερμηνευόμενον Διδάσκαλε), ποῦ μένεις; λέγει αὐτοῖς, ῎Ερχεσθε καὶ ὄψεσθε. ἦλθαν οὖν καὶ εἶδαν ποῦ μένει, καὶ παρ᾽ αὐτῷ ἔμειναν τὴν ἡμέραν ἐκείνην· ὥρα ἦν ὡς δεκάτη. Ἦν ᾽Ανδρέας ὁ ἀδελφὸς Σίμωνος Πέτρου εἷς ἐκ τῶν δύο τῶν ἀκουσάντων παρὰ ᾽Ιωάννου καὶ ἀκολουθησάντων αὐτῷ·εὑρίσκει οὗτος πρῶτον τὸν ἀδελφὸν τὸν ἴδιον Σίμωνα καὶ λέγει αὐτῷ, Εὑρήκαμεν τὸν Μεσσίαν [ὅ ἐστιν μεθερμηνευόμενον Χριστός]· ἤγαγεν αὐτὸν πρὸς τὸν ᾽Ιησοῦν. ἐμβλέψας αὐτῷ ὁ ᾽Ιησοῦς εἶπεν, Σὺ εἶ Σίμων ὁ υἱὸς ᾽Ιωάννου· σὺ κληθήσῃ Κηφᾶς [ὃ ἑρμηνεύεται Πέτρος]. Τῇ ἐπαύριον ἠθέλησεν ἐξελθεῖν εἰς τὴν Γαλιλαίαν, καὶ εὑρίσκει Φίλιππον. καὶ λέγει αὐτῷ ὁ ᾽Ιησοῦς, ᾽Ακολούθει μοι. Ἦν δὲ ὁ Φίλιππος ἀπὸ Βηθσαϊδά, ἐκ τῆς πόλεως ᾽Ανδρέου καὶ Πέτρου. Εὑρίσκει Φίλιππος τὸν Ναθαναὴλ καὶ λέγει αὐτῷ, ὃν ἔγραψεν Μωϋσῆς ἐν τῷ νόμῳ καὶ οἱ προφῆται εὑρήκαμεν, ᾽Ιησοῦν υἱὸν τοῦ ᾽Ιωσὴφ τὸν ἀπὸ Ναζαρέτ. Καὶ εἶπεν αὐτῷ Ναθαναήλ, ᾽Εκ Ναζαρὲτ δύναταί τι ἀγαθὸν εἶναι; λέγει αὐτῷ Φίλιππος, ῎Ερχου καὶ ἴδε. Εἶδεν ὁ ᾽Ιησοῦς τὸν Ναθαναὴλ ἐρχόμενον πρὸς αὐτὸν καὶ λέγει περὶ αὐτοῦ, ῎Ιδε ἀληθῶς ᾽Ισραηλίτης ἐν ᾧ δόλος οὐκ ἔστιν. Λέγει αὐτῷ Ναθαναήλ, Πόθεν με γινώσκεις; ἀπεκρίθη ᾽Ιησοῦς καὶ εἶπεν αὐτῷ, Πρὸ τοῦ σε Φίλιππον φωνῆσαι ὄντα ὑπὸ τὴν συκῆν εἶδόν σε. Ἀπεκρίθη αὐτῷ Ναθαναήλ, ῾Ραββί, σὺ εἶ ὁ υἱὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ, σὺ βασιλεὺς εἶ τοῦ ᾽Ισραήλ. Ἀπεκρίθη ᾽Ιησοῦς καὶ εἶπεν αὐτῷ, Ὅτι εἶπόν σοι ὅτι εἶδόν σε ὑποκάτω τῆς συκῆς πιστεύεις; μείζω τούτων ὄψῃ. Καὶ λέγει αὐτῷ, ᾽Αμὴν ἀμὴν λέγω ὑμῖν, ὄψεσθε τὸν οὐρανὸν ἀνεῳγότα καὶ τοὺς ἀγγέλους τοῦ Θεοῦ ἀναβαίνοντας καὶ καταβαίνοντας ἐπὶ τὸν υἱὸν τοῦ ἀνθρώπου. ...show less

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

Ἐξ ὕψους κατῆλθες ὁ εὔσπλαγχνος, ταφὴν καταδέξω τριήμερον, ἵνα ἡμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃς τῶν παθῶν. Ἡ ζωὴ καὶ ἡ Ἀνάστασις ἡμῶν, Κύριε... show moreResurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 4th Mode
You descended from on high, O compassionate One, and condescended to be buried for three days, so that from the passions You might set us free. Our life and resurrection, O Lord, glory be to You.

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

Apolytikion for Apostle Andrew the 1st Called in the 4th Mode
As the first-called of the Apostles, and brother of their leader, O Andrew, entreat the Master of all that peace be granted unto the world and great mercy to our souls.

Ὡς τῶν Ἀποστόλων Πρωτόκλητος, καὶ τοῦ Κορυφαίου αὐτάδελφος, τὸν Δεσπότην τῶν ὅλων Ἀνδρέα ἱκέτευε, εἰρήνην τὴ οἰκουμένη δωρήσασθαι, καὶ ταὶς ψυχαὶς ἡ μῶν 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 3rd Mode
On this day the Virgin cometh to the cave to give birth to * God the Word ineffably, * Who was before all the ages. * Dance for joy, O earth, on hearing * the gladsome tidings; * with the Angels and the shepherds now glorify Him * Who is willing to be gazed on * as a young Child Who * before the ages is God.
Ἡ Παρθένος σήμερον, τὸν Προαιώνιον Λόγον, ἐν Σπηλαίῳ ἔρχεται, ἀποτεκεῖν ἀπορρήτως. Χόρευε ἡ οἰκουμένη ἀκουτισθεῖσα, δόξασον μετὰ Ἀγγέλων καὶ τῶν Ποιμένων, βουληθέντα ἐποφθῆναι, παιδίον νέον, τὸν πρὸ αἰώνων Θεόν. ...show less

Ec. Patr. Bartholomew, Pope Leo XIV celebrate Doxology at the Phanar

This evening, in the Venerable Patriarchal Church of St. George at the Phanar, a Doxology service brought together His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and His Holiness Pope Leo XIV in a profound manifestation of the “dialogue of love” between the Sister Churches of East and West.

In the solemn and luminous atmosphere of the Thronal Feast of the Holy Great Church of Christ and the commemoration of the Apostle... show moreEc. Patr. Bartholomew, Pope Leo XIV celebrate Doxology at the Phanar

This evening, in the Venerable Patriarchal Church of St. George at the Phanar, a Doxology service brought together His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and His Holiness Pope Leo XIV in a profound manifestation of the “dialogue of love” between the Sister Churches of East and West.

In the solemn and luminous atmosphere of the Thronal Feast of the Holy Great Church of Christ and the commemoration of the Apostle Andrew, the First-Called, the two Primates stood side by side in prayer, surrounded by hierarchs of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, representatives of the Church of Rome, parliamentarians, members of the diplomatic corps, and pilgrims from across the oikoumene, including His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America.

The chanting of psalms and hymns, the proclamation of the readings, and the rising incense before the holy icons transformed the Phanar into a living symbol of reconciliation and hope, linking the recent common pilgrimage to Nicaea with the enduring hope for the reestablishment of visible unity grounded in dialogue, love and communion.

https://orthodoxobserver.org/ec-patr-bartholomew-pope-leo-xiv-celebrate-great-vespers-at-the-phanar/ ...show less

Wishing you a blessed Thanksgiving filled with gratitude to our loving God, the giver of every good and perfect gift.

May His grace strengthen your hearts as we give thanks for His countess blessings.

With Love in Christ,
Metropolitan Gerasimos of San Francisco

https://sanfran.goarch.org/news/reflection-for-thanksgiving-2025

Reflection for Thanksgiving 2025

Beloved in the Lord,

As we gather in this season of Thanksgiving, our hearts turn naturally toward gratitude — for family and friends, for our daily bread, and for the countless mercies that flow from God’s abundant love. Yet for us, as Orthodox Christians, thanksgiving is not simply a day on the calendar. It is a way of life. It is the very rhythm of the Church, expressed in our daily prayers, in our Divine Liturgy, in every breath that acknowledges, “Glory... show moreReflection for Thanksgiving 2025

Beloved in the Lord,

As we gather in this season of Thanksgiving, our hearts turn naturally toward gratitude — for family and friends, for our daily bread, and for the countless mercies that flow from God’s abundant love. Yet for us, as Orthodox Christians, thanksgiving is not simply a day on the calendar. It is a way of life. It is the very rhythm of the Church, expressed in our daily prayers, in our Divine Liturgy, in every breath that acknowledges, “Glory to God for all things.”

The story of the first Thanksgiving has been told so often that we sometimes forget the profound faith that animated it. When the Pilgrims arrived at the shores of the New World in 1620, they faced a brutal winter, hunger, and disease. More than half of them died before the spring. Among them was Dorothy Bradford, the young wife of William Bradford, their future governor, who drowned only days after they landed.

And yet, when the harvest finally came, those who remained gathered to give thanks — not because life was easy, but because God was faithful. Their thanksgiving was not born of comfort, but of hope.

This is a deeply Christian act. To give thanks even in sorrow, to bless God even in loss — this is the mystery of faith. In the words of the Psalmist, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” True gratitude does not wait for abundance. It blossoms even in the wilderness, because it is rooted in trust — trust that God is working all things for our salvation.

In recent years, modern science has begun to affirm what the Church has always known: gratitude changes us. A recent Harvard study found that people who practice gratitude — who intentionally give thanks for the blessings of life — experience greater happiness, improved health, stronger relationships, and even, it seems, longer lives.

But the Church has been teaching this for two thousand years. Gratitude heals the human heart because it restores right relationship — with God, with others, and with creation itself. When we give thanks, we move away from self-centeredness and toward communion. We begin to see that every breath, every person, every moment is a gift.

The Fathers of the Church often remind us that the highest form of human life is Eucharistia — thanksgiving. This is why the central act of our faith is called the Divine Liturgy, the Eucharist. Every time we stand before the Holy Table, we proclaim the same truth: that all of life, even suffering, can be offered in thanksgiving to God and transformed by His grace.

Beloved, let us remember that gratitude is not an emotion that depends on circumstances; it is a spiritual discipline that opens the eyes of the soul. When we give thanks in all things, we discover joy not as the absence of pain, but as the presence of Christ.

Our society often tells us that happiness comes from having more — more comfort, more possessions, more success. But the Church teaches us that happiness comes from seeing more: seeing the good, the beautiful, and the holy that is already before us. Gratitude allows us to see with purified vision — to see God’s hand in all things.

Even the simple act of pausing to thank God for the day — to recall His blessings before sleep, to offer a prayer before a meal — these moments reshape our hearts. They reorient us toward heaven. They remind us that we live not by bread alone, but by the grace and mercy of the Lord.

Like those first Pilgrims, we too are travelers and strangers in a foreign land. We are pilgrims on our way to the Kingdom. Along the journey, we will face hardship, uncertainty, even loss. Yet we can walk with hope because Christ has already gone before us. He is our true Thanksgiving. In Him, sorrow is transfigured into joy, and death into life.

So let us give thanks not only for what we have, but for what God is making of us. Let us thank Him for the challenges that refine us, for the people who strengthen us, and for the Church — our spiritual homeland — where gratitude is not seasonal, but eternal.

This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to gather your families around the table not only to share a meal, but to share words of thanksgiving. Each person, from the youngest to the oldest, can offer one thing for which they thank God – even if you are going through a time of trial. Let your homes be filled not only with the aroma of food, but also with the fragrance of gratitude.

And remember those who have less, those who are alone, those who grieve. True gratitude overflows into compassion.

Beloved, may this Thanksgiving renew within us the spirit of Eucharistia. Let us be thankful in all things — in joy and in sorrow, in abundance and in need. Let us remember that to give thanks is to live already in the light of the Kingdom, where Christ reigns, and where love never ends.

May the Lord bless your homes, your families, and your hearts. May He fill you with peace, with joy, and with unceasing gratitude. And may we all, through the intercessions of the Most-Holy Theotokos, offer our lives as a continual thanksgiving to God — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

https://sanfran.goarch.org/news/reflection-for-thanksgiving-2025 ...show less

November 23

Amphilochius, Bishop of Iconium

Saint Amphilochius, who was born in Cappadocia, shone forth in asceticism and divine knowledge even from his youth. He was consecrated Bishop of Iconium in 341, he struggled courageously against the blasphemies of Eunomius, Macedonius the enemy of the Holy Spirit, and the followers of Arius. He was present at the Second Ecumenical Council of the 150 Fathers, which took place in Constantinople, convoked during the reign of Theodosius the Great in the... show moreNovember 23

Amphilochius, Bishop of Iconium

Saint Amphilochius, who was born in Cappadocia, shone forth in asceticism and divine knowledge even from his youth. He was consecrated Bishop of Iconium in 341, he struggled courageously against the blasphemies of Eunomius, Macedonius the enemy of the Holy Spirit, and the followers of Arius. He was present at the Second Ecumenical Council of the 150 Fathers, which took place in Constantinople, convoked during the reign of Theodosius the Great in the year 381. In 383 Amphilochius wished to persuade the Emperor Theodosius to forbid the Arians from gathering in Constantinople and to commit the churches to the Orthodox, but the Emperor was reluctant to do such a thing. The next time that Amphilochius entered the palace, he addressed Theodosius with proper honour, but slighted his young son Arcadius in his presence.

Theodosius was indignant, and said the dishonour shown to his son was equally an insult to himself. To this Saint Amphilochius answered that as he would not suffer an insult to his son, so he ought to believe that God is wroth with those who blaspheme His Only-begotten. Saint Theodosius understood and admired Amphilochius' ingenious device, and he issued the desired edict in September of the same year. Saint Amphilochius, having reached deep old age, reposed in peace about the year 395. Saint Basil the Great wrote many letters to Saint Amphilochius, his friend and Fellow champion of the Faith, and at his request wrote his treatise On the Holy Spirit, which besides demonstrating the divinity of the Holy Spirit and His equality with the Father and the Son, defends the Church's unwritten ancient traditions, such as making the sign of the Cross, turning towards the East in prayer, no kneeling on Sunday, and so forth. ...show less

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

DESPINA AND RAOUF MAKAR (ANNUAL), parents of Rosemary, Samy, Ramsey, and Hoda

DIMITRIOS AND ELISAVET (ANNUAL), grandparents of Rosemary, Samy, Ramsey, and Hoda

May their memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Evagelia Niktas, Eleftheria Pries, Evagelia Pries, and Koula Pries in the Community Center with support from families with... show moreSUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

DESPINA AND RAOUF MAKAR (ANNUAL), parents of Rosemary, Samy, Ramsey, and Hoda

DIMITRIOS AND ELISAVET (ANNUAL), grandparents of Rosemary, Samy, Ramsey, and Hoda

May their memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Evagelia Niktas, Eleftheria Pries, Evagelia Pries, and Koula Pries in the Community Center with support from families with memorial services. We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our hosts.

Upcoming coffee hour hosts for November 30, 2025: Pam Demertzis, Roula Demertzis, Pauline Ferrant, and Elizabeth Fkiaras

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

PARISH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Please see the Agenda in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin for the Parish Assembly Meeting scheduled in the Community Center on Sunday, November 23, 2025, following the liturgy.

CHURCH OFFICE
Please note that Saiyanna will be on vacation from Wednesday, November 19th through Sunday, November 30th. The church office will have limited hours during this time. Please call the office at 408-246-2770 ahead of any visit to make an appointemnt.

However, if you... show morePARISH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Please see the Agenda in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin for the Parish Assembly Meeting scheduled in the Community Center on Sunday, November 23, 2025, following the liturgy.

CHURCH OFFICE
Please note that Saiyanna will be on vacation from Wednesday, November 19th through Sunday, November 30th. The church office will have limited hours during this time. Please call the office at 408-246-2770 ahead of any visit to make an appointemnt.

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

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

CHRISTIANITY 101: HERETICS AND SAINTS OF THE EARLY CHURCH
NEXT PARAKLESIS AND CLASS WILL BE ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24TH.

Join us Monday nights for Paraklisis at 5pm followed by a Christianity 101 course taught by Fr. Nebojsa Pantic at 6:15 pm.

This semester we will illustrate how the early church was formed, the foundation of the “cult of the saints” as well as how the church faced early heresies and heretics, leading up the 1st Ecumenical Council. The course will cover a very generalized look at the first 300 years of the early church, its history, and its implications on our life today. All are welcome to attend this HYBRID course in-person or on zoom:

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

Meeting ID: 708 436 2224 ...show less

ST. NICHOLAS GALA - SAT. DEC 6TH - SEND YOUR RESPONSE CARDS
We can’t wait to celebrate with you at the 2025 Saint Nicholas Gala!
Please RSVP by submitting your card and payment after Liturgy during coffee hour, or mail it in with payment. Seating will be limited, so don’t delay!

Join us as we celebrate the spirit of Saint Nicholas and 80 years of grace in our beloved parish! Saturday, December 6th, in the evening—it will be a night to remember, filled with gratitude, celebration, and... show moreST. NICHOLAS GALA - SAT. DEC 6TH - SEND YOUR RESPONSE CARDS
We can’t wait to celebrate with you at the 2025 Saint Nicholas Gala!
Please RSVP by submitting your card and payment after Liturgy during coffee hour, or mail it in with payment. Seating will be limited, so don’t delay!

Join us as we celebrate the spirit of Saint Nicholas and 80 years of grace in our beloved parish! Saturday, December 6th, in the evening—it will be a night to remember, filled with gratitude, celebration, and community spirit.


GOT A BUSINESS OR CRAFT?
Got a business or a craft? We’d love your support for our 80th Anniversary Gala! We’re collecting items, gift cards, and services for our silent auction & raffle.

👉 If you’d like to donate, please contact Penny Pagonis or Eva Vathis at events@saintnicholas.org.
Your generosity will help support the parishioners of our church—thank you!

GOYA
GOYA meeting on Sunday, 12/7 from 11:30am-12:15pm in Room 11A. We will be preparing 100 Angel Gift bags for delivery to Child Advocates Silicon Valley.

GOYA Christmas Caroling on Saturday, 12/20 from 10am - 2pm. Join as we carol to our local Saint Nicholas elder community members. More details to follow.

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

GOLDEN YEARS CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
The Golden Years Christmas Luncheon is on December 9th 2025 at 1:00 pm at Jack’s Restaurant, 1502 Saratoga Avenue, San Jose, CA 95129.

Tickets will be sold after Church on Sundays until December 1st or call Antonia Komianos at 408-472-3888.

PHILOPTOCHOS CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
St. Anna Philoptochos invites you to attend their annual Chirstmas Luncheon on Saturday, December 13th, 2025 at 11:30am at the Boulder Ridge Golf Club. Tickets now available at Sunday coffee hour and end December 1st. Adults are $75 and children 12 and under are $30. Space is limited! Tickets will be sold at Sunday Coffee Hour. See the flyer in the "Special Events" section of this e-bulletin for more information.

DOP
If you are interested in contributing and/or participating in our philanthropic initiative, please see below!

December 13, 2025 – Next Door Solutions’ Annual Winter Open House – DOP will host a booth to benefiting domestic violence survivors and their children*
DOP is accepting new children’s books, new stuffed animals, and stocking stuffers to be gifted
*DOP invites middle and high school students to join in hosting this booth, community service hours will be given (please contact sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com for further information)

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT
The annual Christmas Pageant will be on Saturday, December 20th at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church: 5:00pm – 6:00pm Vespers; 6:00pm – 6:30pm Christmas Pageant (Sunday School, Greek School and Choir Ministries), and 6:30pm – 8:00pm dinner and a special guest. All parishioners are invited. Looking forward to seeing you there! (See the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin).

NEW YEAR'S EVE - SAVE THE DATE!
New year, new memories - let's make them together! Save the date for December 31st, 7pm to 1am.

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


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

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

YOUTH BASKETBALL - WINTER CLINICS HAVE BEGUN!
The St Nicholas youth basketball program is starting up for the '25-'26 season. We will be holding our weekly Winter Clinics open to 3rd grade through HS for boys and girls of all experience levels. Clinics focus on basketball fundamentals as well as open gym play. The Boys clinic will begin Tuesday October 28th from 6:45-7:45. The Girls clinic will begin Thursday October 30th from 5:30-6:30. The Winter Clinic schedule, subject to change, is below. Any changes will be noted in this weekly bulletin.

Boys on Tuesdays 6:45-7:30 Oct 28th, Nov 4th, Nov 11th, Nov 18th, Dec 2nd, Dec 9th

Girls all times 5:30-6:30 on Thur Oct 30th, Thur Nov 6th, Thur Nov 13th, Wed Nov 19th, Wed Dec 3rd, Wed Dec 10th

No Clinics Thanksgiving Week!

In preparation for the spring season, we will start team practices in January. Last year we fielded 5 teams: Boys and Girls Elementary, Boys and Girls Middle School, and Boys High School with over 40 participants. Congrats to our Elementary Girls and High School Boys on winning the League Championship! The Orthodox Youth Athletic Association is a recreational league with other Orthodox churches in the Bay Area with games typically on Sunday afternoons starting soon after FDF in February. We look forward to another fun and successful season. To register: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. If you have any questions, please contact John Cocoles at basketball@saintnicholas.org or jcocoles5@gmail.com

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

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

Adult Open Gym guidelines:

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

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

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

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

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

Friday, November 21 - Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

6pm - Paraklesis to Panagia Pantanassa

Saturday, November 22 - Righteous St. Jacob (Iakovos) of Evia
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John... 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, November 21 - Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

6pm - Paraklesis to Panagia Pantanassa

Saturday, November 22 - Righteous St. Jacob (Iakovos) of Evia
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, November 23 - 9th Sunday of Luke
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, November 24
5:00pm Paraklesis

Tuesday, November 25 - St. Catherine the Great Martyr
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, November 30 - Andrew the First Called Apostle
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

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

Online Links to the Text of Church Services:

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

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

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

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

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

DOP DISPATCH
DOP is pleased to share our latest news with our Saint Nicholas community. Celebratory events were held at Holy Trinity Center, San Francisco, and at the Crowne Plaza in Foster City, on Friday, November 14th and Saturday, November 15th in recognition of the 96th Founder’s Day anniversary. We were honored to welcome and host Grand President Antoinette Marousis-Zachariades, joining us all the way from New Jersey!

During the closing months of 2025, DOP continues to strive to meet... show moreDOP DISPATCH
DOP is pleased to share our latest news with our Saint Nicholas community. Celebratory events were held at Holy Trinity Center, San Francisco, and at the Crowne Plaza in Foster City, on Friday, November 14th and Saturday, November 15th in recognition of the 96th Founder’s Day anniversary. We were honored to welcome and host Grand President Antoinette Marousis-Zachariades, joining us all the way from New Jersey!

During the closing months of 2025, DOP continues to strive to meet its commitment to be a contributor to our community. In doing so, we are pleased to share the following :

Saint Nicholas Angel Tree (November 2025) – Sponsor in the amount of $300

Next Door Solutions’ Annual Winter Open House (December 13, 2025) – Contribution of $1,000, including the donation of books and stuffed animals
Saint Nicholas (November 2025) -Contribute Safeway Gift Cards totaling $200
A heartfelt thank you is extended to our sisters and DOP supporters for making this happen! Our guiding mission is promoting Hellenism, education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, family, and individual excellence. If these principles appeal to you, please contemplate joining DOP by contacting us at: maryann@devetzis.com, or sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com

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

Greek Folk Dance

Register for the 2025-2026 Dance program here:

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

Greek School

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

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

Basketball

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

Altar Servers:

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

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

GOYA

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

JOY/HOPE

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

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

GREEK PASTRIES, KOLLYVA, ARTOKLASIA & PROSPHORA
If you wish to order kollyva, artoklasia, prosphora, paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, or other Greek pastries, please see the bakers listed below with their phone numbers to call. Payment is arranged with the bakers and not the church.

For kollyva: Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124

For paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, and other Greek pastries: Maria Tsaboukos 408-723-5175 Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888 Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124.

For artoklasia: Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888 Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124

For prosphora: Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124 ...show less

Matins Gospel Reading
Second Orthros Gospel
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... show moreMatins Gospel Reading
Second Orthros Gospel
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.

Second Orthros Gospel
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. Grave Mode. Psalm 28.11,1.
The Lord will give strength to his people.
Verse: Bring to the Lord, O sons of God, bring to the Lord honor and glory.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Ephesians 2:14-22.

Brethren, Christ is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby bringing the hostility to an end. And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; for through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are built into it for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.

Προκείμενον. Grave Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 28.11,1.
Κύριος ἰσχὺν τῷ λαῷ αὐτοῦ δώσει.
Στίχ. Ἐνέγκατε τῷ Κυρίῳ υἱοὶ Θεοῦ, ἐνέγκατε τῷ Κυρίῳ δόξαν καὶ τιμήν.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Ἐφεσίους 2:14-22.

Ἀδελφοί, Χριστός ἐστιν ἡ εἰρήνη ἡμῶν, ὁ ποιήσας τὰ ἀμφότερα ἕν, καὶ τὸ μεσότοιχον τοῦ φραγμοῦ λύσας, τήν ἔχθραν ἐν τῇ σαρκί αὐτοῦ, τὸν νόμον τῶν ἐντολῶν ἐν δόγμασιν, καταργήσας· ἵνα τοὺς δύο κτίσῃ ἐν ἑαὐτῷ εἰς ἕνα καινὸν ἄνθρωπον, ποιῶν εἰρήνην, καὶ ἀποκαταλλάξῃ τοὺς ἀμφοτέρους ἐν ἑνὶ σώματι τῷ θεῷ διὰ τοῦ σταυροῦ, ἀποκτείνας τὴν ἔχθραν ἐν αὐτῷ· καὶ ἐλθὼν εὐηγγελίσατο εἰρήνην ὑμῖν τοῖς μακρὰν καὶ τοῖς ἐγγύς· ὅτι διʼ αὐτοῦ ἔχομεν τὴν προσαγωγὴν οἱ ἀμφότεροι ἐν ἑνὶ πνεύματι πρὸς τὸν πατέρα. Ἄρα οὖν οὐκέτι ἐστὲ ξένοι καὶ πάροικοι, ἀλλὰ συμπολῖται τῶν ἁγίων καὶ οἰκεῖοι τοῦ θεοῦ, ἐποικοδομηθέντες ἐπὶ τῷ θεμελίῳ τῶν ἀποστόλων καὶ προφητῶν, ὄντος ἀκρογωνιαίου αὐτοῦ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, ἐν ᾧ πᾶσα οἰκοδομὴ συναρμολογουμένη αὔξει εἰς ναὸν ἅγιον ἐν κυρίῳ, ἐν ᾧ καὶ ὑμεῖς συνοικοδομεῖσθε εἰς κατοικητήριον τοῦ θεοῦ ἐν πνεύματι.

Gospel Reading
9th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 12:16-21

The Lord said this parable: "The land of a rich man brought forth plentifully; and he thought to himself, 'What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?' And he said, 'I will do this: I will pull down my barns, and build larger ones; and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, 'Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry.' But God said to him, 'Fool! This night your soul is required of you; and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?' So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God." As he said these things, he cried out: "He who has ears to hear, let him hear."

9th Sunday of Luke
Κατὰ Λουκᾶν 12:16-21

Εἶπεν ὁ Κύριος τήν παραβολὴν ταύτην· Ἀνθρώπου τινὸς πλουσίου εὐφόρησεν ἡ χώρα· καὶ διελογίζετο ἐν ἑαυτῷ λέγων· τί ποιήσω, ὅτι οὐκ ἔχω ποῦ συνάξω τοὺς καρπούς μου; καὶ εἶπε· τοῦτο ποιήσω· καθελῶ μου τὰς ἀποθήκας καὶ μείζονας οἰκοδομήσω, καὶ συνάξω ἐκεῖ πάντα τὰ γενήματά μου καὶ τὰ ἀγαθά μου, καὶ ἐρῶ τῇ ψυχῇ μου· ψυχή, ἔχεις πολλὰ ἀγαθὰ κείμενα εἰς ἔτη πολλά· ἀναπαύου, φάγε, πίε, εὐφραίνου. εἶπε δὲ αὐτῷ ὁ Θεός· ἄφρον, ταύτῃ τῇ νυκτὶ τὴν ψυχήν σου ἀπαιτοῦσιν ἀπὸ σοῦ· ἃ δὲ ἡτοίμασας τίνι ἔσται; οὕτως ὁ θησαυρίζων ἑαυτῷ, καὶ μὴ εἰς Θεὸν πλουτῶν. ...show less

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

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

Κατέλυσας τῷ Σταυρῷ σου τὸν θάνατον, ἠνέῳξας τῷ Λῃστῇ τὸν Παράδεισον, τῶν Μυροφόρων τὸν θρῆνον μετέβαλες, καὶ τοῖς σοῖς Ἀποστόλοις κηρύττειν ἐπέταξας, ὅτι ἀνέστης Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός, παρέχων τῷ κόσμῳ τὸ μέγα ἔλεος.
Apolytikion for Afterfeast of the Entry of the Theotokos in the 4th Mode

Today is the prelude of God's good will and the heralding of the salvation of mankind. In the temple of God, the Virgin is presented openly, and she proclaimeth Christ unto all. To her, then, with a great voice let us cry aloud: Rejoice, O thou fulfilment of the Creator's dispensation.

Σήμερον τής ευδοκίας Θεού τό προοίμιον, καί τής τών ανθρώπων σωτηρίας η προκήρυξις, Εν Ναώ τού Θεού τρανώς η Παρθένος δείκνυται, καί τόν Χριστόν τοίς πάσι προκαταγγέλλεται, Αυτή καί ημείς μεγαλοφώνως βοήσωμεν, Χαίρε τής οικονομίας τού Κτίστου η εκπλήρωσις.

Seasonal Kontakion in the 4th Mode
Today, the most pure temple of the Savior, the precious bridal chamber and Virgin, the sacred treasure of God, enters the house of the Lord, bringing the grace of the Divine Spirit. The Angels of God praise her. She is the heavenly tabernacle.

Ο καθαρώτατος ναός τού Σωτήρος, η πολυτίμητος παστάς καί Παρθένος, τό Ιερόν θησαύρισμα τής δόξης τού Θεού, σήμερον εισάγεται, εν τώ οίκω Κυρίου, τήν χάριν συνεισάγουσα, τήν εν Πνευματι θείω, ήν ανυμνούσιν Άγγελοι Θεού, Αύτη υπάρχει σκηνή επουράνιος. ...show less

November 16

Matthew the Apostle & Evangelist

This Apostle, who was also called Levi, was the son of Alphaeus and had Galilee as his homeland. A publican before being called by Christ, he became one of the Twelve Apostles, and an Evangelist. While still in Palestine, he wrote his Gospel first in Hebrew, being also the first of all to write the Gospel.

When he is depicted in icons, there is portrayed next to him the likeness of a man, one of the symbolic living creatures mentioned by Ezekiel... show moreNovember 16

Matthew the Apostle & Evangelist

This Apostle, who was also called Levi, was the son of Alphaeus and had Galilee as his homeland. A publican before being called by Christ, he became one of the Twelve Apostles, and an Evangelist. While still in Palestine, he wrote his Gospel first in Hebrew, being also the first of all to write the Gospel.

When he is depicted in icons, there is portrayed next to him the likeness of a man, one of the symbolic living creatures mentioned by Ezekiel (1.10), which, as Saint Irenaeus writes, is a symbol of our Saviour's Incarnation. ...show less

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

MICHAEL LAHR (40 DAYS), beloved friend of Fr. Nebojsa, Presbytera Stephanie, Theo of Paraskevi and Elias Pantic

GREGORY ASTRAKIANAKIS (6 MO), father of Maria (Prashant) Aji, grandfather of Nepheli and Akhilesh

MEMBERS OF THE CHIAN SOCIETY OF CALIFORNIA, AGIA MARKELLA CHAPTER, WHO HAVE FALLEN ASLEEP IN THE LORD

THE 112TH ANNIVERSARY OF ALL WHO PERISHED IN THE BATTLE OF CHIOS GAINING... show moreSUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

MICHAEL LAHR (40 DAYS), beloved friend of Fr. Nebojsa, Presbytera Stephanie, Theo of Paraskevi and Elias Pantic

GREGORY ASTRAKIANAKIS (6 MO), father of Maria (Prashant) Aji, grandfather of Nepheli and Akhilesh

MEMBERS OF THE CHIAN SOCIETY OF CALIFORNIA, AGIA MARKELLA CHAPTER, WHO HAVE FALLEN ASLEEP IN THE LORD

THE 112TH ANNIVERSARY OF ALL WHO PERISHED IN THE BATTLE OF CHIOS GAINING FREEDOM FOR THE ISLAND AND ENDING ALMOST 350 YEARS OF OTTOMAN EMPIRE RULE

May their memory be eternal

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Maria Chaloris, Despina Iskander, Diana Matheou, Angeliki Pries, and Chrissoula Pries 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 November 23, 2025: Evagelia Niktas, Eleftheria Pries, Evagelia Pries, and Koula Pries

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

PARISH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Please see the Agenda in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin for the Parish Assembly Meeting scheduled in the Community Center on Sunday, November 23, 2025, following the liturgy.

CHURCH OFFICE
Please note that Saiyanna will be on vacation from Wednesday, November 19th through Sunday, November 30th. The church office will have limited hours during this time. Please call the office at 408-246-2770 ahead of any visit to make an appointemnt.

However, if you... show morePARISH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Please see the Agenda in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin for the Parish Assembly Meeting scheduled in the Community Center on Sunday, November 23, 2025, following the liturgy.

CHURCH OFFICE
Please note that Saiyanna will be on vacation from Wednesday, November 19th through Sunday, November 30th. The church office will have limited hours during this time. Please call the office at 408-246-2770 ahead of any visit to make an appointemnt.

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

PARISH COUNCIL 2026
We welcome St. Nicholas parishioners in good standing to consider running for the 2026 Parish Council. We will be accepting applications for 8 spots for a term of two years.

The current incumbents who will continue to serve in 2026 are (in alphabetical order): Petros Balaskas, Joanna Dunn, Dimitris Lymberopoulos, George Panos, Nicki Poulos, and George Spilios.

Parish Council Election - Important dates:

October - Self-nomination process begins with the requirements for those wishing to submit their names to run for Parish Council. Please see the Parish Council Application package in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin or your emails. Paper applications are also available in the halls and they have been emailed to you.

Friday, November 14th at 3:00pm - Parish Council Applications will be due for self-nominations.

Sunday, November 23rd - we will gather for our General Assembly meeting where we will accept nominations of candidates.

Sunday, December 7th at noon - mandatory in-person Parish Council Seminar for all qualified candidates.

Sunday, December 14th from 11:30am to 12:30pm - we will hold our Election for Parish Council. Members of the Election Committee and the Stewardship Committee will officiate.

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

CHRISTIANITY 101: HERETICS AND SAINTS OF THE EARLY CHURCH
NEXT PARAKLESIS AND CLASS WILL BE ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24TH.

Join us Monday nights for Paraklisis at 5pm followed by a Christianity 101 course taught by Fr. Nebojsa Pantic at 6:15 pm.

This semester we will illustrate how the early church was formed, the foundation of the “cult of the saints” as well as how the church faced early heresies and heretics, leading up the 1st Ecumenical Council. The course will cover a very generalized look at the first 300 years of the early church, its history, and its implications on our life today. All are welcome to attend this HYBRID course in-person or on zoom:

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

Meeting ID: 708 436 2224 ...show less

CHIAN SOCIETY DINNER DANCE - SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15th
Please join us for our annual dinner dance on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the St. Nicholas Community Center.

No-host cocktails at 6pm, dinner at 7:00pm. Live band music from Mythos! Adults $75, children $35.

Proceeds benefit St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church for the beautification of the courtyard and the Chian Society Agia Markella for the General Hospital of Chios. For more information and tickets, contact Niko Pries at 408-398-7070;... show moreCHIAN SOCIETY DINNER DANCE - SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15th
Please join us for our annual dinner dance on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the St. Nicholas Community Center.

No-host cocktails at 6pm, dinner at 7:00pm. Live band music from Mythos! Adults $75, children $35.

Proceeds benefit St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church for the beautification of the courtyard and the Chian Society Agia Markella for the General Hospital of Chios. For more information and tickets, contact Niko Pries at 408-398-7070; Angie Kozas at 510-387-2057, or email Anna Kozas at anna.kozas@gmail.com. See you there!

ST. NICHOLAS GALA - SAT. DEC 6TH - SEND YOUR RESPONSE CARDS
We can’t wait to celebrate with you at the 2025 Saint Nicholas Gala!
Please RSVP by submitting your card and payment after Liturgy during coffee hour, or mail it in with payment. Seating will be limited, so don’t delay!

Join us as we celebrate the spirit of Saint Nicholas and 80 years of grace in our beloved parish! Saturday, December 6th, in the evening—it will be a night to remember, filled with gratitude, celebration, and community spirit.

GOT A BUSINESS OR CRAFT?
Got a business or a craft? We’d love your support for our 80th Anniversary Gala! We’re collecting items, gift cards, and services for our silent auction & raffle.

👉 If you’d like to donate, please contact Penny Pagonis or Eva Vathis at events@saintnicholas.org.
Your generosity will help support the parishioners of our church—thank you!

GILROY FAMILY FELLOWSHIP
We are continuing a fellowship of Orthodox Christians who reside further away from our parish, off of Highway 101, who would like to participate in spiritual edification, fellowship, and prayer services offered in Gilroy, CA.

All families or individuals, parishioners or non-parishioners, are welcome to attend the Gilroy Fellowship Potluck on Sunday, November 16th at 6pm at the home of Tina Bundros. Please bring a dish to share. If you would like the address or more details please contact Robyn Tsobanakis at 702-506-1850.

GOYA
GOYA meeting on Sunday, 12/7 from 11:30am-12:15pm in Room 11A. We will be preparing 100 Angel Gift bags for delivery to Child Advocates Silicon Valley.

GOYA Christmas Caroling on Saturday, 12/20 from 10am - 2pm. Join as we carol to our local Saint Nicholas elder community members. More details to follow.

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

PHILOPTOCHOS CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
St. Anna Philoptochos invites you to attend their annual Chirstmas Luncheon on Saturday, December 13th, 2025 at 11:30am at the Boulder Ridge Golf Club. Tickets now available at Sunday coffee hour and end December 1st. Adults are $75 and children 12 and under are $30. Space is limited! Tickets will be sold at Sunday Coffee Hour. See the flyer in the "Special Events" section of this e-bulletin for more information.

DOP
If you are interested in contributing and/or participating in our philanthropic initiative, please see below!

December 13, 2025 – Next Door Solutions’ Annual Winter Open House – DOP will host a booth to benefiting domestic violence survivors and their children*
DOP is accepting new children’s books, new stuffed animals, and stocking stuffers to be gifted
*DOP invites middle and high school students to join in hosting this booth, community service hours will be given (please contact sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com for further information)

COLLEGE STUDENT MINISTRY
CANCELED

The College Ministry/OCF event scheduled for Mon. Nov. 17th has been CANCELED.

Apologies for the short notice. We look forward to seeing you at our future events.
The College Ministry/OCF Team
Future dates include: Monday January 26, 2026, Monday February 9, 2026, Monday March 9, 2026, Monday April 27, 2026, Monday May 18, 2026

The College Ministry/OCF Team https://saintnicholas.org/

GOLDEN YEARS CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
The Golden Years Christmas Luncheon is on December 9th 2025 at 1:00 pm at Jack’s Restaurant, 1502 Saratoga Avenue, San Jose, CA 95129.

Tickets will be sold after Church on Sundays until December 1st or call Antonia Komianos at 408-472-3888.

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT - MARK YOUR CALENDARS
The annual Christmas Pageant will be on Saturday, December 20th at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church: 5:00pm – 6:00pm Vespers; 6:00pm – 6:30pm Christmas Pageant (Sunday School, Greek School and Choir Ministries), and 6:30pm – 8:00pm dinner and a special guest. All parishioners are invited. Looking forward to seeing you there! (See the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin).

NEW YEAR'S EVE - SAVE THE DATE!
New year, new memories - let's make them together! Save the date for December 31st, 7pm to 1am.

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

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

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

YOUTH BASKETBALL - WINTER CLINICS HAVE BEGUN!
The St Nicholas youth basketball program is starting up for the '25-'26 season. We will be holding our weekly Winter Clinics open to 3rd grade through HS for boys and girls of all experience levels. Clinics focus on basketball fundamentals as well as open gym play. The Boys clinic will begin Tuesday October 28th from 6:45-7:45. The Girls clinic will begin Thursday October 30th from 5:30-6:30. The Winter Clinic schedule, subject to change, is below. Any changes will be noted in this weekly bulletin.

Boys on Tuesdays 6:45-7:30 Oct 28th, Nov 4th, Nov 11th, Nov 18th, Dec 2nd, Dec 9th

Girls all times 5:30-6:30 on Thur Oct 30th, Thur Nov 6th, Thur Nov 13th, Wed Nov 19th, Wed Dec 3rd, Wed Dec 10th

No Clinics Thanksgiving Week!

In preparation for the spring season, we will start team practices in January. Last year we fielded 5 teams: Boys and Girls Elementary, Boys and Girls Middle School, and Boys High School with over 40 participants. Congrats to our Elementary Girls and High School Boys on winning the League Championship! The Orthodox Youth Athletic Association is a recreational league with other Orthodox churches in the Bay Area with games typically on Sunday afternoons starting soon after FDF in February. We look forward to another fun and successful season. To register: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. If you have any questions, please contact John Cocoles at basketball@saintnicholas.org or jcocoles5@gmail.com

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

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

Adult Open Gym guidelines:

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

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

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

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

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

Sunday, November 16 - St. Matthew the Apostle and Evangelist
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Friday, November 21 - Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Saturday, November 22 - Righteous... 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/

Sunday, November 16 - St. Matthew the Apostle and Evangelist
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Friday, November 21 - Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Saturday, November 22 - Righteous St. Jacob (Iakovos) of Evia
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, November 23 - 9th Sunday of Luke
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

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

Online Links to the Text of Church Services:

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

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

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

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

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

THANK YOU
Father Berris Golf Classic would like to express our gratitude to the donors, players and volunteers for a successful 36th annual tournament. Scholarship checks have been gratefully received by the 10 seminarians from our metropolis pursuing their Master of Divinity degree at Holy Cross (on their path to priesthood). What a tremendous difference you are providing these students as we all benefit from their success. THANK YOU!

YOUTH MINISTRIES REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Sunday School... show moreTHANK YOU
Father Berris Golf Classic would like to express our gratitude to the donors, players and volunteers for a successful 36th annual tournament. Scholarship checks have been gratefully received by the 10 seminarians from our metropolis pursuing their Master of Divinity degree at Holy Cross (on their path to priesthood). What a tremendous difference you are providing these students as we all benefit from their success. THANK YOU!

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

Greek Folk Dance

Register for the 2025-2026 Dance program here:

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

Greek School

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

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

Basketball

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

Altar Servers:

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

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

GOYA

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

JOY/HOPE

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

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

GREEK PASTRIES, KOLLYVA, ARTOKLASIA & PROSPHORA
If you wish to order kollyva, artoklasia, prosphora, paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, or other Greek pastries, please see the bakers listed below with their phone numbers to call. Payment is arranged with the bakers and not the church.

For kollyva: Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124

For paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, and other Greek pastries: Maria Tsaboukos 408-723-5175 Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888 Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124.

For artoklasia: Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888 Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124

For prosphora: Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124 ...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... 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. Plagal 4th Mode. Psalm 18.4,1.
Their voice has gone out into all the earth.
Verse: The heavens declare the glory of God.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Romans 10:11-21; 11:1-2.

Brethren, the scripture says, "No one who believes in God will be put to shame." For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and bestows his riches upon all who call upon him. For, "every one who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved." But how are men to call upon him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without a preacher? And how can men preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach good news!" But they have not all obeyed the gospel; for Isaiah says, "Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?" So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes by the preaching of Christ. But I ask, have they not heard? Indeed they have; for "Their voice has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world." Again I ask, did Israel not understand? First Moses says, "I will make you jealous of those who are not a nation; with a foolish nation I will make you angry." Then Isaiah is so bold as to say, "I have been found by those who did not seek me; I have shown myself to those who did not ask for me." But of Israel he says, "All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people." I ask, then, has God rejected his people? By no means! I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew.

Προκείμενον. Plagal 4th Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 18.4,1.
Εἰς πᾶσαν τὴν γῆν ἐξῆλθεν ὁ φθόγγος αὐτῶν.
Στίχ. Οἱ οὐρανοὶ διηγοῦνται δόξαν Θεοῦ.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς ῾Ρωμαίους 10:11-21, 11:1-2.

Ἀδελφοί, λέγει γὰρ ἡ γραφή, Πᾶς ὁ πιστεύων ἐπʼ αὐτῷ οὐ καταισχυνθήσεται. Οὐ γάρ ἐστιν διαστολὴ Ἰουδαίου τε καὶ Ἕλληνος· ὁ γὰρ αὐτὸς κύριος πάντων, πλουτῶν εἰς πάντας τοὺς ἐπικαλουμένους αὐτόν. Πᾶς γὰρ ὃς ἂν ἐπικαλέσηται τὸ ὄνομα κυρίου σωθήσεται. Πῶς οὖν ἐπικαλέσονται εἰς ὃν οὐκ ἐπίστευσαν; Πῶς δὲ πιστεύσουσιν οὗ οὐκ ἤκουσαν; Πῶς δὲ ἀκούσουσιν χωρὶς κηρύσσοντος; Πῶς δὲ κηρύξουσιν ἐὰν μὴ ἀποσταλῶσιν; Καθὼς γέγραπται, Ὡς ὡραῖοι οἱ πόδες τῶν εὐαγγελιζομένων εἰρήνην, τῶν εὐαγγελιζομένων τὰ ἀγαθά. Ἀλλʼ οὐ πάντες ὑπήκουσαν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ. Ἠσαΐας γὰρ λέγει, Κύριε, τίς ἐπίστευσεν τῇ ἀκοῇ ἡμῶν; Ἄρα ἡ πίστις ἐξ ἀκοῆς, ἡ δὲ ἀκοὴ διὰ ῥήματος θεοῦ. Ἀλλὰ λέγω, μὴ οὐκ ἤκουσαν; Μενοῦνγε· Εἰς πᾶσαν τὴν γῆν ἐξῆλθεν ὁ φθόγγος αὐτῶν, καὶ εἰς τὰ πέρατα τῆς οἰκουμένης τὰ ῥήματα αὐτῶν. Ἀλλὰ λέγω, μὴ οὐκ ἔγνω Ἰσραήλ; Πρῶτος Μωϋσῆς λέγει, Ἐγὼ παραζηλώσω ὑμᾶς ἐπʼ οὐκ ἔθνει, ἐπὶ ἔθνει ἀσυνέτῳ παροργιῶ ὑμᾶς. Ἠσαΐας δὲ ἀποτολμᾷ καὶ λέγει, Εὑρέθην τοῖς ἐμὲ μὴ ζητοῦσιν, ἐμφανὴς ἐγενόμην τοῖς ἐμὲ μὴ ἐπερωτῶσιν. Πρὸς δὲ τὸν Ἰσραὴλ λέγει, Ὅλην τὴν ἡμέραν ἐξεπέτασα τὰς χεῖράς μου πρὸς λαὸν ἀπειθοῦντα καὶ ἀντιλέγοντα. Λέγω οὖν, μὴ ἀπώσατο ὁ θεὸς τὸν λαὸν αὐτοῦ; Μὴ γένοιτο. Καὶ γὰρ ἐγὼ Ἰσραηλίτης εἰμί, ἐκ σπέρματος Ἀβραάμ, φυλῆς Βενϊαμίν. Οὐκ ἀπώσατο ὁ θεὸς τὸν λαὸν αὐτοῦ ὃν προέγνω.

Gospel Reading
Matthew the Apostle & Evangelist
The Reading is from Matthew 9:9-13

At that time, as Jesus passed on, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax office; and he said to him, "Follow me." And he rose and followed him.

And as he sat at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Jesus and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" But when he heard it, he said, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."

Matthew the Apostle & Evangelist
Κατὰ Ματθαῖον 9:9-13

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, παράγων ὁ ῾Ιησοῦς ἐκεῖθεν εἶδεν ἄνθρωπον καθήμενον ἐπὶ τὸ τελώνιον, Ματθαῖον λεγόμενον, καὶ λέγει αὐτῷ· ἀκολούθει μοι. καὶ ἀναστὰς ἠκολούθησεν αὐτῷ. Καὶ ἐγένετο αὐτοῦ ἀνακειμένου ἐν τῇ οἰκίᾳ, καὶ ἰδοὺ πολλοὶ τελῶναι καὶ ἁμαρτωλοὶ ἐλθόντες συνανέκειντο τῷ ᾿Ιησοῦ καὶ τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ. καὶ ἰδόντες οἱ Φαρισαῖοι εἶπον τοῖς μαθηταῖς αὐτοῦ· διατί μετὰ τῶν τελωνῶν καὶ ἁμαρτωλῶν ἐσθίει ὁ διδάσκαλος ὑμῶν; ὁ δὲ ᾿Ιησοῦς ἀκούσας εἶπεν αὐτοῖς· οὐ χρείαν ἔχουσιν οἱ ἰσχύοντες ἰατροῦ, ἀλλ᾿ οἱ κακῶς ἔχοντες. πορευθέντες δὲ μάθετε τί ἐστιν ἔλεον θέλω καὶ οὐ θυσίαν. οὐ γὰρ ἦλθον καλέσαι δικαίους, ἀλλὰ ἁμαρτωλοὺς εἰς μετάνοιαν. ...show less

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

Ἀγγελικαὶ Δυνάμεις ἐπὶ τὸ μνῆμά σου, καὶ οἱ φυλάσσοντες ἀπενεκρώθησαν,... show moreResurrectional Apolytikion in the Plagal 2nd Mode
When the angelic powers appeared at Your grave, the soldiers guarding it feared and became as dead. And standing by the sepulcher was Mary who was seeking Your immaculate body. You devastated Hades, not afflicted by it. You went to meet the virgin, and granted eternal life. You resurrected from the dead. O Lord, glory to You.

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

Apolytikion for Apostle and Evangelist Matthew in the 3rd Mode
O Holy Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, intercede with the merciful God that He grant unto our souls forgiveness of offences.

Απόστολε Άγιε, καί Ευαγγελιστά Ματθαίε, πρέσβευε τώ ελεήμονι Θεώ, ίνα πταισμάτων άφεσιν, παράσχη ταίς ψυχαίς ημών.

Apolytikion of Saint Nicholas in the 1st Mode

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

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

Seasonal Kontakion in the 4th Mode

Today, the most pure temple of the Savior, the precious bridal chamber and Virgin, the sacred treasure of God, enters the house of the Lord, bringing the grace of the Divine Spirit. The Angels of God praise her. She is the heavenly tabernacle.

Ο καθαρώτατος ναός τού Σωτήρος, η πολυτίμητος παστάς καί Παρθένος, τό Ιερόν θησαύρισμα τής δόξης τού Θεού, σήμερον εισάγεται, εν τώ οίκω Κυρίου, τήν χάριν συνεισάγουσα, τήν εν Πνευματι θείω, ήν ανυμνούσιν Άγγελοι Θεού, Αύτη υπάρχει σκηνή επουράνιος. ...show less

He puts an end to the woman's fear ... He sets her right, in respect of her thinking to be hid ... He exhibits her faith to all, so as to provoke the rest also to emulation ...

St. John Chrysostom
Homily 31 on Matthew 9, 4th Century

And we have cause also to admire the self-denial of the evangelist, how he disguises not his own former life, but adds even his name ... from the midst of the evils He drew him up; much as He converted the blessed Paul also when frantic and raging, and darting... show moreHe puts an end to the woman's fear ... He sets her right, in respect of her thinking to be hid ... He exhibits her faith to all, so as to provoke the rest also to emulation ...

St. John Chrysostom
Homily 31 on Matthew 9, 4th Century

And we have cause also to admire the self-denial of the evangelist, how he disguises not his own former life, but adds even his name ... from the midst of the evils He drew him up; much as He converted the blessed Paul also when frantic and raging, and darting fire; ...

St. John Chrysostom
Homily 30 on Matthew 9, 4th Century ...show less

Abp. Elpidophoros looks to future on Eastern-Oriental Orthodox dialogue

At the Huffington Ecumenical Institute’s conference “Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches: Moving the Dialogue Forward,” held Nov. 4-6 in Brookline, Mass., His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America offered a hopeful outlook on future dialogue between the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches.

Welcoming clergy, theologians, and representatives from both the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches, the Archbishop... show moreAbp. Elpidophoros looks to future on Eastern-Oriental Orthodox dialogue

At the Huffington Ecumenical Institute’s conference “Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches: Moving the Dialogue Forward,” held Nov. 4-6 in Brookline, Mass., His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America offered a hopeful outlook on future dialogue between the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches.

Welcoming clergy, theologians, and representatives from both the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches, the Archbishop spoke of the “undiminished resonance” of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, seventeen centuries after its 325 convening.

“Between all our Churches,” His Eminence said, “despite subsequent divergences—usually based in differing expressions of the same ideas—we all retain Nicaea’s unified definition of faith of the Lord Jesus Christ.”

As Chairman of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA, Archbishop Elpidophoros expressed gratitude for the presence of many fellow members, assuring attendees that he would share the conference’s work at the Assembly’s annual meeting, which will convene this weekend.

Reflecting on the shared creed, the Archbishop emphasized that “the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed remains the touchstone by which all theology stands or falls.” He cited the late Pope John Paul II’s own recognition of the Father as “the one origin both of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” underscoring the continued opportunity for dialogue and understanding among all Christians.

“Given this admission from our Roman Catholic brethren,” His Eminence said, “it leaves us—the Christians of the East—with a tremendous responsibility to move our own dialogue forward.”

Drawing from the recent words of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the Archbishop reflected on the challenge and humility required in theological discourse.

“This is where we always begin, with the inestimable gulf between our language and the ineffable language of God,” he said, quoting the Ecumenical Patriarch. “We know that speaking about God–theologizing–is a risky business.”

“When we rely on our rational minds to master the utter incomprehensibility of God,” Archbishop Elpidophoros continued, “we have entered the realm of hubris, where our pride will inevitably go before the proverbial fall.”

He nevertheless affirmed that the enduring witness of Nicaea offers reason for hope:

“The genius of Nicaea One,” he said, “has stood the test of time—seventeen centuries! That simple yet profound word, ὁμοούσιος … has proven to be prophetic for the Christian faith.”

Citing the teaching of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew that Christ is “ὁμοούσιον τῷ Πατρί καὶ ὁμοούσιον τῇ Μητρί,” the Archbishop reminded that this truth unites humanity to divinity through the Incarnation.

“Because our Lord is as much ‘consubstantial’ with His Holy Mother as He is with His Heavenly Father,” he said, “we too are enveloped within the ‘Divine Nature’ through that shared Human Nature.”

Concluding his address, Archbishop Elpidophoros called upon all present to renew “the prophetic status of Nicaea One” within the life of the Church.

“When the Councils of the Church voiced the Nicene Creed, it was in the first person plural–‘we believe,’” he said. “That plurality of voices could be available to us again, even after seventeen hundred years, and all the historical, political, and societal detritus of those intervening centuries.”

“We cannot change the past, but we can learn from it. What’s done is done, but that is surely not all there is to do.”

“I pray … we hear in each other’s voices the possibility of speaking once again as ‘we,’” he said.

He also urged that those present “embrace every consequence of the ὁμοούσιον, and find a way to go beyond the inadequacies of ages past, and forge a path into the future which is in accord with the ‘Way,’ to which the Lord called us, the path of forgiveness, compassion, and love.”

“May we find it quickly,” he concluded, “by His grace and love for humankind.”

https://orthodoxobserver.org/archbishop-elpidophoros-future-eastern-oriental-dialogue/ ...show less

November 09

Onesiphorus and Porphyrius of Ephesus

During the persecution of Diocletian and Maximian, about the year 290, Saints Onesiphorus and Porphyrius were betrayed as Christians to the persecutors.

After many torments through which they stood fast in confessing their faith, they were bound by the feet to wild horses and dragged to death.

SUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

PANAGIOTIS (PETER) KATSOUDAS (6 MO), husband of Vana Katsoudas, father of John (Francine) Katsoudas, Ellie (Patrick) O’Rourke, grandfather of Nikolas, Angelina, Connor, and Liam-Panagiotis

DEMETRIOS AND ELIZABETH VELLIOS (ANNUAL), parents of Marina (Evan) Moustakas and Vana Katsoudas, grandparents of Ari Moustakas, Sophia Marx, John Katsoudas, and Ellie (Katsoudas) O’Rourke, great... show moreSUNDAY MEMORIAL SERVICES

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

PANAGIOTIS (PETER) KATSOUDAS (6 MO), husband of Vana Katsoudas, father of John (Francine) Katsoudas, Ellie (Patrick) O’Rourke, grandfather of Nikolas, Angelina, Connor, and Liam-Panagiotis

DEMETRIOS AND ELIZABETH VELLIOS (ANNUAL), parents of Marina (Evan) Moustakas and Vana Katsoudas, grandparents of Ari Moustakas, Sophia Marx, John Katsoudas, and Ellie (Katsoudas) O’Rourke, great grandchildren

May their memory be eternal

ARTOKLASIA (Blessing of the Five Loaves) in honor of St. Nektarios the Wonderworker (November 9th) is offered by Fotis and Eleni Dionisopoulos for the health and well-being of their family and all the families of our St. Nicholas Parish.

SUNDAY COFFEE HOUR

We welcome all to Sunday coffee hour hosted by Anthea Antoniou, Marianthi Maroudas, Dina Panagopoulos, Elena Polychronopoulos, and Katerina Polychronopoulos 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 November 16, 2025: Maria Chaloris, Despina Iskander, Diana Matheou, Angeliki Pries, and Chrissoula Pries

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

CHURCH OFFICE
Please note the office will be closed on Monday, November 10th.

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

PARISH COUNCIL 2026
We welcome St. Nicholas parishioners in good standing to consider running for the 2026 Parish Council. We will be accepting applications for 8 spots for a term of two years.

The current incumbents who will continue to serve in 2026 are (in alphabetical order): Petros Balaskas, Joanna Dunn,... show moreCHURCH OFFICE
Please note the office will be closed on Monday, November 10th.

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

PARISH COUNCIL 2026
We welcome St. Nicholas parishioners in good standing to consider running for the 2026 Parish Council. We will be accepting applications for 8 spots for a term of two years.

The current incumbents who will continue to serve in 2026 are (in alphabetical order): Petros Balaskas, Joanna Dunn, Dimitris Lymberopoulos, George Panos, Nicki Poulos, and George Spilios.

Parish Council Election - Important dates:

October - Self-nomination process begins with the requirements for those wishing to submit their names to run for Parish Council. Please see the Parish Council Application package in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin or your emails. Paper applications are also available in the halls and they have been emailed to you.

Friday, November 14th at 3:00pm - Parish Council Applications will be due for self-nominations.

Sunday, November 23rd - we will gather for our General Assembly meeting where we will accept nominations of candidates.

Sunday, December 7th at noon - mandatory in-person Parish Council Seminar for all qualified candidates.

Sunday, December 14th from 11:30am to 12:30pm - we will hold our Election for Parish Council. Members of the Election Committee and the Stewardship Committee will officiate.

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CARD - DEADLINE IS ON MONDAY!
As we come upon the Christmas holidays, it is time to start planning for our parish’s joyous tradition of greeting one another through the mailing of our Community Christmas Card.

Paper forms have already been mailed out, and you can mail back the paper form to the church office with the names spelled clearly as you would like them to appear on the card, OR you can submit your entry online today by clicking on the link: https://saintnicholas.org/christmas_card

The deadline for submitting names for the Christmas Card is Monday, November 10, 2025.

Please prayerfully consider including a contribution towards the cost of making our card possible. For any questions, please call the church office at 408-246-2770.

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

CHRISTIANITY 101: HERETICS AND SAINTS OF THE EARLY CHURCH
NEXT PARAKLESIS AND CLASS WILL BE ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10TH.

Join us Monday nights for Paraklisis at 5pm followed by a Christianity 101 course taught by Fr. Nebojsa Pantic at 6:15 pm.

This semester we will illustrate how the early church was formed, the foundation of the “cult of the saints” as well as how the church faced early heresies and heretics, leading up the 1st Ecumenical Council. The course will cover a very generalized look at the first 300 years of the early church, its history, and its implications on our life today. All are welcome to attend this HYBRID course in-person or on zoom:

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

Meeting ID: 708 436 2224 ...show less

GOYA
GOYA meeting this Sunday, 11/9 from 11:30am-12:15pm in Room 11A. We are thrilled to meet in our newly furnished GOYA room.

GOYA meeting on Sunday, 12/7 from 11:30am-12:15pm in Room 11A. We will be preparing 100 Angel Gift bags for delivery to Child Advocates Silicon Valley.

GOYA Christmas Caroling on Saturday, 12/20 from 10am - 2pm. Join as we carol to our local Saint Nicholas elder community members. More details to follow.

For more information email Eva Vathis at eperakis1@aol.com... show moreGOYA
GOYA meeting this Sunday, 11/9 from 11:30am-12:15pm in Room 11A. We are thrilled to meet in our newly furnished GOYA room.

GOYA meeting on Sunday, 12/7 from 11:30am-12:15pm in Room 11A. We will be preparing 100 Angel Gift bags for delivery to Child Advocates Silicon Valley.

GOYA Christmas Caroling on Saturday, 12/20 from 10am - 2pm. Join as we carol to our local Saint Nicholas elder community members. More details to follow.

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

MONASTERY OF THE HOLY THEOTOKOS, THE LIFE GIVING SPRING FUNDRAISER
Sunday, November 9th - Monastery Fundraiser Dinner

Gerontissa Markella and her Sisterhood joyfully, with hope and thanksgiving for your constant support and many years of commitment, invite you to join us again for a Benefit Dinner. The Monastery of the Theotokos of the Life Giving Spring Fundraising Dinner will be on Sunday, November 9th at the St. Nicholas Community Center at 5:00pm.

Donation for tickets for adults $75, children 12 and under $35. All proceeds go to Monastery for essential support to the operation of the Monastery facility.

For details or to RSVP, please contact Evagelia at: (408)499-3939, email at eva.niktas@gmail.com. Also please see flyer and ticket form in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin.

CHIAN SOCIETY DINNER DANCE - SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15th
Please join us for our annual dinner dance on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the St. Nicholas Community Center.

No-host cocktails at 6pm, dinner at 7:00pm. Live band music from Mythos! Adults $75, children $35.

Proceeds benefit St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church for the beautification of the courtyard and the Chian Society Agia Markella for the General Hospital of Chios. For more information and tickets, contact Niko Pries at 408-398-7070; Angie Kozas at 510-387-2057, or email Anna Kozas at anna.kozas@gmail.com. See you there!

GOLDEN YEARS THANKSGIVING LUNCHEON
The Golden Years Meeting and Thanksgiving Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, November 11th at 11:30 a.m. in the Small Hall. Please rsvp your attendance to Christine at ckouvphilo@sbcglobal.net

ST. NICHOLAS GALA - SAT. DEC 6TH - SEND YOUR RESPONSE CARDS
We can’t wait to celebrate with you at the 2025 Saint Nicholas Gala!
Please RSVP by submitting your card and payment after Liturgy during coffee hour, or mail it in with payment. Seating will be limited, so don’t delay!

Join us as we celebrate the spirit of Saint Nicholas and 80 years of grace in our beloved parish! Saturday, December 6th, in the evening—it will be a night to remember, filled with gratitude, celebration, and community spirit.

JOIN US! DOP MEETING - NOVEMBER 12TH
Daughters of Penelope will be meeting on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 7:00 pm, in the Small Hall Conference Room.

If you are interested in contributing and/or participating in our philanthropic initiative, please see below!

December 13, 2025 – Next Door Solutions’ Annual Winter Open House – DOP will host a booth to benefiting domestic violence survivors and their children*
DOP is accepting new children’s books, new stuffed animals, and stocking stuffers to be gifted
*DOP invites middle and high school students to join in hosting this booth, community service hours will be given (please contact sofia.kotsiri@gmail.com for further information)

GILROY FAMILY FELLOWSHIP
We are continuing a fellowship of Orthodox Christians who reside further away from our parish, off of Highway 101, who would like to participate in spiritual edification, fellowship, and prayer services offered in Gilroy, CA.

All families or individuals, parishioners or non-parishioners, are welcome to attend the Gilroy Fellowship Potluck on Sunday, November 16th at 6pm at the home of Tina Bundros. Please bring a dish to share. If you would like the address or more details please contact Robyn Tsobanakis at 702-506-1850.

GOT A BUSINESS OR CRAFT?
Got a business or a craft? We’d love your support for our 80th Anniversary Gala! We’re collecting items, gift cards, and services for our silent auction & raffle.

👉 If you’d like to donate, please contact Penny Pagonis or Eva Vathis at events@saintnicholas.org.
Your generosity will help support the parishioners of our church—thank you!

PHILOPTOCHOS CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
St. Anna Philoptochos invites you to attend their annual Chirstmas Luncheon on Saturday, December 13th, 2025 at 11:30am at the Boulder Ridge Golf Club. Tickets now available at Sunday coffee hour and end December 1st. Adults are $75 and children 12 and under are $30. Space is limited! See the flyer in the "Special Events" section of this e-bulletin for more information.

YOUTH BASKETBALL - WINTER CLINICS HAVE BEGUN!
The St Nicholas youth basketball program is starting up for the '25-'26 season. We will be holding our weekly Winter Clinics open to 3rd grade through HS for boys and girls of all experience levels. Clinics focus on basketball fundamentals as well as open gym play. The Boys clinic will begin Tuesday October 28th from 6:45-7:45. The Girls clinic will begin Thursday October 30th from 5:30-6:30. The Winter Clinic schedule, subject to change, is below. Any changes will be noted in this weekly bulletin.

Boys on Tuesdays 6:45-7:30 Oct 28th, Nov 4th, Nov 11th, Nov 18th, Dec 2nd, Dec 9th

Girls all times 5:30-6:30 on Thur Oct 30th, Thur Nov 6th, Thur Nov 13th, Wed Nov 19th, Wed Dec 3rd, Wed Dec 10th

No Clinics Thanksgiving Week!

In preparation for the spring season, we will start team practices in January. Last year we fielded 5 teams: Boys and Girls Elementary, Boys and Girls Middle School, and Boys High School with over 40 participants. Congrats to our Elementary Girls and High School Boys on winning the League Championship! The Orthodox Youth Athletic Association is a recreational league with other Orthodox churches in the Bay Area with games typically on Sunday afternoons starting soon after FDF in February. We look forward to another fun and successful season. To register: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. If you have any questions, please contact John Cocoles at basketball@saintnicholas.org or jcocoles5@gmail.com

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT - MARK YOUR CALENDARS
The annual Christmas Pageant will be on Saturday, December 20th at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church: 5:00pm – 6:00pm Vespers; 6:00pm – 6:30pm Christmas Pageant (Sunday School, Greek School and Choir Ministries), and 6:30pm – 8:00pm dinner and a special guest. All parishioners are invited. Looking forward to seeing you there! (See the flyer in the Special Events section of this e-bulletin).

NEW YEAR'S EVE - SAVE THE DATE!
New year, new memories - let's make them together! Save the date for December 31st, 7pm to 1am.

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

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

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

Adult Open Gym guidelines:

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

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

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

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

Saturday, November 8 - Synaxis of the Archangels
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, November 9 - 7th Sunday of Luke
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, November 10
5:00 p.m. Paraklesis

Tuesday, November 11 - Sts. Victor, Menas and... 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/

Saturday, November 8 - Synaxis of the Archangels
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, November 9 - 7th Sunday of Luke
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Monday, November 10
5:00 p.m. Paraklesis

Tuesday, November 11 - Sts. Victor, Menas and Vicentios
8:30 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

Sunday, November 16 - St. Matthew the Apostle and Evangelist
8:15 a.m. Orthros
9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom

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

Online Links to the Text of Church Services:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Greek Folk Dance

Register for the 2025-2026 Dance program here:

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

Greek School

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

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

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

Greek Folk Dance

Register for the 2025-2026 Dance program here:

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

Greek School

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

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

Basketball

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

Altar Servers:

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

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

GOYA

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

JOY/HOPE

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

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

GREEK PASTRIES, KOLLYVA, ARTOKLASIA & PROSPHORA

If you wish to order kollyva, artoklasia, prosphora, paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, or other Greek pastries, please see the bakers listed below with their phone numbers to call. Payment is arranged with the bakers and not the church.

For kollyva: Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124

For paximadia, koulourakia, melomakarona, kourambiedes, and other Greek pastries: Maria Tsaboukos 408-723-5175 Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888 Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124.

For artoklasia: Antonia Komianos 408-472-3888 Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124

For prosphora: Marcella Fotis 408-723-4124 ...show less

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

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

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

Eleventh Orthros Gospel
Κατὰ Ἰωάννην 21:14-25

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

Epistle Reading

Prokeimenon. Plagal 1st Mode. Psalm 11.7,1.
You, O Lord, shall keep us and preserve us.
Verse: Save me, O Lord, for the godly man has failed.

The reading is from St. Paul's Letter to the Galatians 6:11-18.

Brethren, see with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that would compel you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who receive circumcision do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may glory in your flesh. But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule, upon the Israel of God. Henceforth let no man trouble me; for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren. Amen.

Προκείμενον. Plagal 1st Mode. ΨΑΛΜΟΙ 11.7,1.
Σὺ Κύριε, φυλάξαις ἡμᾶς καὶ διατηρήσαις ἡμᾶς.
Στίχ. Σῶσον με, Κύριε, ὅτι ἐκλέλοιπεν ὅσιος.

τὸ Ἀνάγνωσμα Πρὸς Γαλάτας 6:11-18.

Ἀδελφοί, ἴδετε πηλίκοις ὑμῖν γράμμασιν ἔγραψα τῇ ἐμῇ χειρί. Ὅσοι θέλουσιν εὐπροσωπῆσαι ἐν σαρκί, οὗτοι ἀναγκάζουσιν ὑμᾶς περιτέμνεσθαι, μόνον ἵνα μὴ τῷ σταυρῷ τοῦ Χριστοῦ διώκωνται. Οὐδὲ γὰρ οἱ περιτετμημένοι αὐτοὶ νόμον φυλάσσουσιν, ἀλλὰ θέλουσιν ὑμᾶς περιτέμνεσθαι, ἵνα ἐν τῇ ὑμετέρᾳ σαρκὶ καυχήσωνται. Ἐμοὶ δὲ μὴ γένοιτο καυχᾶσθαι εἰ μὴ ἐν τῷ σταυρῷ τοῦ κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ· διʼ οὗ ἐμοὶ κόσμος ἐσταύρωται, κἀγὼ τῷ κόσμῳ. Ἐν γὰρ Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ οὔτε περιτομή τι ἰσχύει, οὔτε ἀκροβυστία, ἀλλὰ καινὴ κτίσις. Καὶ ὅσοι τῷ κανόνι τούτῳ στοιχήσουσιν, εἰρήνη ἐπʼ αὐτούς, καὶ ἔλεος, καὶ ἐπὶ τὸν Ἰσραὴλ τοῦ θεοῦ. Τοῦ λοιποῦ, κόπους μοι μηδεὶς παρεχέτω· ἐγὼ γὰρ τὰ στίγματα τοῦ κυρίου Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματί μου βαστάζω. Ἡ χάρις τοῦ κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματος ὑμῶν, ἀδελφοί. Ἀμήν.

Gospel Reading
7th Sunday of Luke
The Reading is from Luke 8:41-56

At that time, there came to Jesus a man named Jairus, who was a ruler of the synagogue; and falling at Jesus' feet he besought him to come to his house, for he had an only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she was dying. As he went, the people pressed round him. And a woman who had had a flow of blood for twelve years and had spent all her living upon physicians and could not be healed by anyone, came up behind him, and touched the fringe of his garment; and immediately her flow of blood ceased. And Jesus said, "Who was it that touched me?" When all denied it, Peter and those who were with him said, "Master, the multitudes surround you and press upon you!" But Jesus said, "Some one touched me; for I perceive that power has gone forth from me." And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched him, and how she had been immediately healed. And he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace." While he was still speaking, a man from the ruler's house came and said, "Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher any more." But Jesus on hearing this answered him, "Do not fear; only believe, and she shall be well." And when he came to the house, he permitted no one to enter with him, except Peter and John and James, and the father and mother of the child. And all were weeping and bewailing her; but he said, "Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping." And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But taking her by the hand he called, saying, "Child, arise." And her spirit returned, and she got up at once; and he directed that something should be given her to eat. And her parents were amazed; but he charged them to tell no one what had happened.

7th Sunday of Luke
Κατὰ Λουκᾶν 8:41-56

Τῷ καιρῷ ἐκείνῳ, ἄνθρωπός τις προσῆλθε τῷ Ἰησοῦ ᾧ ὄνομα ᾿Ιάειρος, καὶ αὐτὸς ἄρχων τῆς συναγωγῆς ὑπῆρχε· καὶ πεσὼν παρὰ τοὺς πόδας τοῦ ᾿Ιησοῦ παρεκάλει αὐτὸν εἰσελθεῖν εἰς τὸν οἶκον αὐτοῦ, ὅτι θυγάτηρ μονογενὴς ἦν αὐτῷ ὡς ἐτῶν δώδεκα, καὶ αὕτη ἀπέθνησκεν. ᾿Εν δὲ τῷ ὑπάγειν αὐτὸν οἱ ὄχλοι συνέπνιγον αὐτόν. καὶ γυνὴ οὖσα ἐν ῥύσει αἵματος ἀπὸ ἐτῶν δώδεκα, ἥτις ἰατροῖς προσαναλώσασα ὅλον τὸν βίον οὐκ ἴσχυσεν ὑπ᾿ οὐδενὸς θεραπευθῆναι, προσελθοῦσα ὄπισθεν ἥψατο τοῦ κρασπέδου τοῦ ἱματίου αὐτοῦ, καὶ παραχρῆμα ἔστη ἡ ῥύσις τοῦ αἵματος αὐτῆς. καὶ εἶπεν ὁ ᾿Ιησοῦς· τίς ὁ ἁψάμενός μου; ἀρνουμένων δὲ πάντων εἶπεν ὁ Πέτρος καὶ οἱ σὺν αὐτῷ· ἐπιστάτα, οἱ ὄχλοι συνέχουσί σε καὶ ἀποθλίβουσι, καὶ λέγεις τίς ὁ ἁψάμενός μου; ὁ δὲ ᾿Ιησοῦς εἶπεν· ἥψατό μού τις· ἐγὼ γὰρ ἔγνων δύναμιν ἐξελθοῦσαν ἀπ᾿ ἐμοῦ. ἰδοῦσα δὲ ἡ γυνὴ ὅτι οὐκ ἔλαθε, τρέμουσα ἦλθε καὶ προσπεσοῦσα αὐτῷ δι᾿ ἣν αἰτίαν ἥψατο αὐτοῦ ἀπήγγειλεν αὐτῷ ἐνώπιον παντὸς τοῦ λαοῦ, καὶ ὡς ἰάθη παραχρῆμα. ὁ δὲ εἶπεν αὐτῇ· θάρσει, θύγατερ, ἡ πίστις σου σέσωκέ σε· πορεύου εἰς εἰρήνην.῎Ετι αὐτοῦ λαλοῦντος ἔρχεταί τις παρὰ τοῦ ἀρχισυναγώγου λέγων αὐτῷ ὅτι τέθνηκεν ἡ θυγάτηρ σου· μὴ σκύλλε τὸν διδάσκαλον. ὁ δὲ ᾿Ιησοῦς ἀκούσας ἀπεκρίθη αὐτῷ λέγων· μὴ φοβοῦ· μόνον πίστευε, καὶ σωθήσεται. ἐλθὼν δὲ εἰς τὴν οἰκίαν οὐκ ἀφῆκεν εἰσελθεῖν οὐδένα εἰ μὴ Πέτρον καὶ ᾿Ιωάννην καὶ ᾿Ιάκωβον καὶ τὸν πατέρα τῆς παιδὸς καὶ τὴν μητέρα. ἔκλαιον δὲ πάντες καὶ ἐκόπτοντο αὐτήν. ὁ δὲ εἶπε· μὴ κλαίετε· οὐκ ἀπέθανεν, ἀλλὰ καθεύδει. καὶ κατεγέλων αὐτοῦ, εἰδότες ὅτι ἀπέθανεν. αὐτὸς δὲ ἐκβαλὼν ἔξω πάντας καὶ κρατήσας τῆς χειρὸς αὐτῆς ἐφώνησε λέγων· ἡ παῖς, ἐγείρου. καὶ ἐπέστρεψε τὸ πνεῦμα αὐτῆς, καὶ ἀνέστη παραχρῆμα, καὶ διέταξεν αὐτῇ δοθῆναι φαγεῖν. καὶ ἐξέστησαν οἱ γονεῖς αὐτοῖς. ὁ δὲ παρήγγειλεν αὐτοῖς μηδενὶ εἰπεῖν τὸ γεγονός. ...show less

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

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

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

Apolytikion for Nectarius the Wonderworker in the 1st Mode
The offspring of Selyvria and the guardian of Aegina, the true friend of virtue who didst appear in the last years, O Nectarius, we faithful honour thee as a godly servant of Christ, for thou pourest forth healings of every kind for those who piously cry out: Glory to Christ Who hath glorified thee. Glory to Him Who hath made thee wondrous. Glory to Him Who worketh healings for all through thee.

Σηλυβρίας τον γόνον και Αιγίνης τον έφορον, τον εσχάτοις χρόνοις φανέντα, αρετής φίλον γνήσιον, Νεκτάριον τιμήσωμεν πιστοί, ως ένθεον θεράποντα Χριστού, αναβλύζεις γαρ ιάσεις παντοδαπάς, τοίς ευλαβώς κραυγάζουσι, δόξα τώ σέ δοξάσαντι Χριστώ, δόξα τώ σε θαυμαστώσαντι, δόξα τώ ενεργούντι διά σού, πάσιν ιάματα.

Apolytikion of Saint Nicholas in the 1st Mode

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

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

Seasonal Kontakion in the 4th Mode
Today, the most pure temple of the Savior, the precious bridal chamber and Virgin, the sacred treasure of God, enters the house of the Lord, bringing the grace of the Divine Spirit. The Angels of God praise her. She is the heavenly tabernacle.

Ο καθαρώτατος ναός τού Σωτήρος, η πολυτίμητος παστάς καί Παρθένος, τό Ιερόν θησαύρισμα τής δόξης τού Θεού, σήμερον εισάγεται, εν τώ οίκω Κυρίου, τήν χάριν συνεισάγουσα, τήν εν Πνευματι θείω, ήν ανυμνούσιν Άγγελοι Θεού, Αύτη υπάρχει σκηνή επουράνιος. ...show less

Abp. Elpidophoros Nameday Gala sets fundraising record

The spirit of faith, community, and generosity filled the room last night, Nov. 3, as more than 550 clergy and faithful gathered for the annual Nameday Gala in honor of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America.

Now in its third year, with the largest attendance to date, this celebration raised vital support for the Archdiocesan Youth Summer Camp Scholarship Fund—helping young people experience the Church through camping ministries... show moreAbp. Elpidophoros Nameday Gala sets fundraising record

The spirit of faith, community, and generosity filled the room last night, Nov. 3, as more than 550 clergy and faithful gathered for the annual Nameday Gala in honor of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America.

Now in its third year, with the largest attendance to date, this celebration raised vital support for the Archdiocesan Youth Summer Camp Scholarship Fund—helping young people experience the Church through camping ministries across the Archdiocese and in Greece at Ionian Village.

Archbishop Elpidophoros addressed the attendees with great thanks, expressing his appreciation for the love and encouragement he has received throughout his ministry.

“I feel the Spirit of God move through your labors and efforts on behalf of our Church, and I never feel alone in the work of the Gospel that the Lord has given to us,” he said. “You have always been there for me, as I strive to always be there for you.”

He also reflected on the profound impact of the camping ministry, calling it essential to the future of the Church.

“For the young participants, the campground is indeed Sacred Ground, where they encounter our Holy Faith in a profoundly communal way,” he said.

“Like the immersion of Holy Baptism, they are immersed in an environment of spiritual capacity and community activity. They forge deep and lasting personal relationships—with clergy, with counselors, and with one another. These friendships become the foundation for their lifelong journey in the Church.”

Elaine Allen, Treasurer of the Archdiocese, then shared a personal story of her daughter’s transformative experiences with the various camping programs of the Archdiocese, stating that the Fund ensures every child can have the same life-changing experience.

As Treasurer, she reported that over the past two years alone, more than $860,000 has been contributed to support Ionian Village and Metropolis camp scholarships, with $560,000 being allocated to support scholarships to Metropolis camps across the Archdiocese and Ionian Village. The remaining $300,000 has been used to establish an endowment fund to ensure that future generations have the benefit of experiencing the Archdiocesan and Metropolis camping ministries through the contributions of our faithful today.

Stephanie Clark, Co-Chair of the Nameday Gala and Vice-Chair of the Archdiocesan District Council, spoke with warmth and sincerity about the gala’s importance in ensuring “no child miss this opportunity because of finances.”

His Grace Bishop Nektarios of Diokleia, GOARCH National Chancellor, also shared heartfelt remarks honoring His Eminence, reflecting on his vision and love of our Church and our faithful.

“We all need to acknowledge that today we have an Archbishop with a vision and dynamism that is leading our Holy Archdiocese in being bold and unrelenting in addressing the challenges of our Church this day and age,” Bishop Nektarios said. “With his leadership he is guiding us as a true spiritual shepherd defending his flock.”

Total contributions raised in support of the Nameday Gala exceeded $500,000. The contributions will again be used to establish scholarships for Greek Orthodox youth to attend the camping ministries of the Archdiocese and its Metropolises.

Chancellor of the Direct Archdiocesan District Fr. Elias Villis offered words of thanks to the Archdiocese staff who work tirelessly for our Church and added his observations about the importance of supporting our camps.

He then announced the recipients of the inaugural Archbishop’s Award of Excellence recognizing the extraordinary service to the Church and community. The inaugural honorees were Archon Philip Christopher and Paulette Poulos.

Archbishop Elpidophoros spoke warmly of Christopher, noting that he “has been at the forefront of peace and justice for Cyprus and has strengthened virtually every aspect of the Omogeneia throughout a lifetime of generously sharing his personal and professional success with our Γένος.”

https://orthodoxobserver.org/nameday-gala-sets-fundraising-record/ ...show less

At Every Divine Liturgy – Thanksgiving

As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, it is important to remember that every time we gather for the Divine Liturgy, we are doing so as an act of thanksgiving. Every Divine Liturgy is a Thanksgiving meal, but instead of turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, we have (literally) heavenly food—the Body and Blood of Christ!

Holy Communion would come to be referred to as the Eucharist (as we see in the late 1st century document, The Didache and the letters... show moreAt Every Divine Liturgy – Thanksgiving

As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, it is important to remember that every time we gather for the Divine Liturgy, we are doing so as an act of thanksgiving. Every Divine Liturgy is a Thanksgiving meal, but instead of turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, we have (literally) heavenly food—the Body and Blood of Christ!

Holy Communion would come to be referred to as the Eucharist (as we see in the late 1st century document, The Didache and the letters of St. Ignatius about 107AD) which is “taken from a Greek word meaning ‘thanksgiving’”.1 The term Eucharist is used for Communion because when Christ took the bread and wine that He would consecrate to become His Body and Blood, He “gave thanks” (Luke 22:19).2 Additionally, in the Divine Liturgy, the Priest says “Let us give thanks to the Lord”, to which the people respond “It is proper and right”. He then begins the great Eucharistic prayer, which is a reminder of the immeasurable love God has for us and the world.

The Divine Liturgy is an act of gratitude, but why should we be grateful? There are countless reasons, but let’s focus on one overarching one. We have a God who loves us unconditionally even though we are sinners. This never stops, even when we fall short and stumble (i.e. sin). As St. Paul reminds us, God demonstrated “His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8). Also, while Christ was on the Cross our Lord said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” (Luke 23:34).

When it comes to understanding how God feels about us when we stray from Him, we should also remember the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). The father of the Prodigal represents God and the son represents rebellious humanity. Despite the son’s highly disrespectful act towards his father and his subsequent squandering of his inheritance on sinful living, the father never stopped loving him. Instead, when he saw him return, he ran to him, embraced and kissed him, and had a great banquet in his honor! God’s attitude toward us is the same. Even though we stray, God’s love for us abides because we are and always will be His precious children and He awaits our return.

Despite his unworthiness the Prodigal son was given a banquet with a fatted calf, which literally means “formed from wheat”.3 At every Divine Liturgy we are offered a banquet of wheat (bread) and wine, which are consecrated and become the Body and Blood of our Lord. He offers this to us, despite our unworthiness.

To be clear, despite God’s never-ending love for us, our Lord calls us to repent of our sins and to avoid sinning because He knows the consequences of sin–misery, suffering, pain, etc. Having said that, we must never think that when we do sin, God has abandoned us, despises us, or rejects us. Let us always remember that God’s love for mankind, according to the 1st Prayer of the Antiphon in the Divine Liturgy is “ineffable” which means “too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words”.

With this understanding of God, I pray that our gratitude for God will be strengthened and that our thanksgiving to God at every Divine Liturgy will be even more heartfelt, now and forever and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

https://sanfran.goarch.org/news/at-every-divine-liturgy-thanksgiving ...show less

‘Better worry and prepare’: Scholars confront AI’s future

The Orthodox Observer’s conference on artificial intelligence and theology opened on Thursday evening at the Maliotis Cultural Center in Brookline, Mass., its title asking a provocative question: “Do the Divine and Digital Intersect?” (https://orthodoxobserver.org/ai-conference/)

With presentations from theologians, clergy, and engineers, the event’s first night explored how Orthodox Christianity can guide faithful–and... show more‘Better worry and prepare’: Scholars confront AI’s future

The Orthodox Observer’s conference on artificial intelligence and theology opened on Thursday evening at the Maliotis Cultural Center in Brookline, Mass., its title asking a provocative question: “Do the Divine and Digital Intersect?” (https://orthodoxobserver.org/ai-conference/)

With presentations from theologians, clergy, and engineers, the event’s first night explored how Orthodox Christianity can guide faithful–and society at large–through the challenges artificial intelligence (AI) presents.

In his opening remarks, GOARCH Director of Communications Dr. Stratos Safioleas warned that what was once a novelty “has become now an emergency.”

“The questions around artificial intelligence extend far beyond technology,” Safioleas said. “They touch on social, economic, and ethical issues, and perhaps more importantly, they present existential issues.”

Theologians are “uniquely equipped to speak with depth and wisdom about these matters,” Safioleas said.

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America echoed the assertion that the Church is called to ethical leadership. “The question of where and how the divine and digital intersect is an urgent one,” he said. “One that must not be avoided by the Church.”

“The possibility of a ‘technological tsunami’ should be motivation enough … we owe this to our faithful,” the Archbishop said. (https://www.goarch.org/-/archbishop%C2%A0elpidophoros-invocation-and-welcome%C2%A0remarks-do-the-divine-and-the-digital-intersect-%C2%A0-ai-and-theology-an-orthodox-observer-conference-october%C2%A030-2025%C2%A0in-brookline-massachusetts)

Yannis Papakonstantinou, a Distinguished Engineer at Google Cloud, offered the first of two keynote addresses. He framed faith as a guide to AI’s challenges, presenting the Church’s leadership as both “an opportunity and a duty.”

He addressed prevalent concerns regarding AI’s impact on economics, machine consciousness, and humanity’s belief in God. Though Papakonstantinou offered a relatively optimistic perspective on humanity’s future in the face of AI, he simultaneously urged audience members to “worry and prepare.”

Drs. Taylor Nutter and Mark Graves presented the event’s first panel, entitled “Theological Responses to the Socioeconomic Implications of AI.” The Orthodox Observer‘s Dr. Claire Koen moderated the panel.

Nutter challenged the perceived moral neutrality of AI tools, describing them as “an instantiation of the structural injustice defining liberal capitalism as a racialized regime of accumulation.”

Citing the Theotokos’s prayer in the Gospel according to Luke, he said: “As disciples of a God who ‘has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty,’ to do the will of the Lord is to resist the structural implications defining contemporary AI.”

In his presentation “Compassionate AI for Positive Human Futures,” Graves suggested AI may be particularly useful in healthcare if a “theoretical knowledge of compassion and nuanced scenarios can be used to train a model of compassion.”

He argued that while the Church can help direct AI toward human flourishing, it must also guard against technology that increases suffering.

“Good intentions are not enough,” Graves warned.

Audience members raised particular concern about military applications of AI–an issue that has drawn international scrutiny. The conversation underscored the urgency, complexity, and moral imperative of the Church’s engagement with technology.

https://orthodoxobserver.org/scholars-confront-ais-future/

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