June 2013 - Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral

Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox CathedralJune 2013I N S I D ET H I S I S S U EDean’s Message 2President’s Message 3Stewardship 4Philoptohos News 6Philanthropia News 8Philoptohos VIP 8Youth News 9Choir News 9Ministries List 10Sacrament/Memorials 11Community News 12Orthodox Calendar 19Deadline for July HeraldSaturday, June 15, 2013Submit to:herald@stsophia.orgSaint SophiaGreek OrthodoxCathedralHERALDJUNE 2013PageCELEBRATING 100YEARS OF GREEKORTHODOXY INLOS ANGELESV. Rev. Fr. John S. Bakas,DeanRev. Fr. Allan Boyd,Assistant Priest1324 S. Normandie AvenueLos Angeles, CA 90006Tel. 323-737-2424Fax. 323-737-7029www.stsophia.orgPentecost Icon, stavronikita monastery, mount athosHoly PentecostJune 23rd

Page 2June 2013DEAN’S MESSAGEAgape … Sacrificial LoveCHRISTOS ANESTI, my beloved brothers and sisters in theLord:The sacrificial Love of Christ for us always exemplified by theLenten Holy Week and Paschal services are explained in thebelow story.“Though I speak with the tongues of men and angels, but havenot love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.And though I have the gift of prophesy, and understand allmysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, sothat I could remove mountains, but have not love, I amnothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor,and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, itprofits me nothing. Love suffers long and is kind; love does notenvy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does notbehave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinksno evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, enduresall things. Love never fails.” I Cor. 13:1-8This is one of the most beautiful explanations of love in theHoly Bible. When I drift in my understanding of love, I alwaysgo to St. Paul and re-read the above.Love is the eternal message of the Church. It is to be lovingand sacrificially reconciled to our brothers and sisters. Love isan ongoing eternal festival where we can embrace oneanother and experience the forgiveness of Christ as we forgiveone another. The most powerful word in the New Testament isAGAPE…the Greek word for love. It is the sacrificial seekingto serve. The word agape is rarely found in ancient Greekliterature. Only ten times it appears in Homer. Three times itappears in Euripides. But it appears 320 times in the NewTestament.Agape is sacrificial. It says; I love you when you are not verylovable. Agape is the cross, extending its arms to embrace allhumanity. Agape loves when it is not always convenient andwhen it is not reciprocated. It extends to both the deservingand the undeserving.One of the great examples of this type of agape is taken frommy favorite author, Nikos Kazantzakis. Although he and someof his literary works have been considered controversial in thechurch, he was never excommunicated as some seem tothink. Like many of us, he struggled on matters of faith andreligious practice. In his memoir, A Report to Greco, he wrotean account of an incident in his life which I think truly definesChrist-like sacrificial agape. I pray it moves you as it hasmoved me over the years. It goes as follows:“I knew that no matter what door you knock on in a Cretanvillage, it will be opened for you. A meal will be served in yourhonor and you will sleep between the best sheets in thehouse. In Crete the stranger is still the unknown god. Beforehim all doors and all hearts are opened. Night had begun todescend as I entered the village. The doors were all shut; inthe courtyard the dogs caught the intruder’s scent and beganto bark. Where should I go, at which door should I knock? Atthe priest’s home, where all strangers find refuge. The priestsin our villages are uncultivated, their education meager; theyare incapable of any theoretical discussion of Christiandoctrine. But Christ lives in their hearts, and sometimes theysee Him with their eyes, if not by the pillow of a wartimecasualty, then sitting beneath a flowering almond tree inspringtime.A door opened. A little old woman came out with a lamp in herhand to see who the stranger was who entered the village atsuch an hour. I stopped. “Long may you live, madam.” I said,sweetening my voice so that she would not be frightened. “Iam a stranger and have nowhere to sleep. Would you be sokind as to direct me to the priest’s house?” Gladly, I’ll hold thelamp so you won’t stumble. God-his holy name be blessedgavesoil to some and stones to others. Our lot was thestones. Watch your step and follow me.” She led the way withthe lamp. We turned a corner and arrived at a vaulteddoorway. A lantern was hanging outside.“This is the priest’s house,” said the old woman. Lifting thelamp, she threw the light on my face and sighed. She wasgoing to say something but changed her mind. “Thank you, myfine woman,” I said. Sorry to bother you. Good night.” Iknocked on the priest’s door. I heard heavy steps in theyard. The door opened. Standing in front of me was an oldman with a snow-white beard and long hair flowing down overhis shoulders. Without asking me who I was or what I wanted,he extended his hand. “Welcome. Are you a stranger? Comein.” I heard voices as I entered. Doors opened and closed, andseveral women slipped down hastily into the adjoining roomand vanished. The priest had me sit down on the couch. “Mywife, the papadhiá, is a little indisposed; you’ll have to excuseher. But I myself will cook for you, lay the table for yoursupper, and prepare a bed so that you can sleep.” His voicewas heavy and afflicted. He was extremely pale, and his eyeswere swollen and inflamed, as though from weeping. But nothought of a misfortune occurred to me. I ate, slept, and in themorning the priest brought me a tray of bread, cheese andmilk. I held out my hand, thanked him, and said goodbye. “Godbless you, my son,” he said. “Christ be with you.” I left. At theedge of the village an old man appeared. Placing his handover his breast, he greeted me.“ Where did you spend thenight, son?’ he asked. “At the priest’s house.” the old mansighed. “Ah, the poor fellow. And you didn’t catch wind ofanything?” “What was there to catch wind of?” “His son diedyesterday morning. His only son. Didn’t you hear the womenlamenting?” “I heard nothing. Nothing.” “They had him in theinner room. They must have muffled their laments to keep youfrom being disturbed…Pleasant journey!” My eyes filled withtears. “What are you crying for!” exclaimed the old man inastonishment. “Oh, I see: you’re young, you haven’t gottenused to death yet. Pleasant journey!”May the sacrificial love proclaimed by our Lord in HisPassion and Resurrection and the example of love shownin this story fill you always…for indeed God is love!In Christ,V. Rev. Fr, John Bakas, Dean

June 2013 Page 3PARISH COUNCIL MESSAGEDay of ResurrectionO day of resurrection! Let us beam with God's own pride!Let everyone embrace in joy! Let us warmly greet thosewe meet and treat them all like brothers, even those whohate us! Let all the earth resound with this song: Christ isrisen from the dead, conquering death by death, and onthose in the grave bestowing life! (St. John of Damascus,Paschal canon).The Parish Council Members and I wish to thank all of ourstaff, volunteers and parishioners who attended andparticipated throughout Lent and our beautiful Holy Weekservices. Both of our priests, Father John Bakas and FatherAllan Boyd, faithfully helped guide all of us through thepreparations for this spiritual journey of repentance,forgiveness, reconciliation, prayer, fasting, giving and study.Through their love and guidance, they helped us toexperience the new and unending day of the Kingdom of God.We extend our thanks to Jimmy Karatsikis and his staff(especially Leonard, Mauricio and Miguel) for each day’spreparations and maintenance of our Cathedral, to Jim Kollias(choir director), Chris Yokas (organist), choir members,Dimitris Liogris (Protopsaltis) and Michael Kontaxis (AssistantPsaltis) for our uplifting and melodic hymns and chants, to allthe ladies of Philoptohos for their help with the preparation ofthe red eggs (kokkina avga) and the preparation of thedelicious galaktoboureko, to our Parish Council and Trusteesfor assisting within the Church for collections and for helpingwith the organization of the Easter Picnic (special thanks toTed Pappas and committee), for our ushers (special shout outto Diane Lapa for her assistance with our special guests), ourvery sweet and wonderful myrrbearers and sponsors, ourladies who decorated the Epitafio (symbolizing Jesus’ tomb)with the fragrant flowers and rose water, to our volunteersworking both in and outside of the Narthex selling candlesand wishing everyone a happy Pascha, to our carriers of ourbeautiful Epitafio in and around the Cathedral, to our entireSaint Sophia staff members (Helen, Chris, Ann, and weeklyvolunteers who man the front office) and to all of ourparishioners and friends who witnessed the resurrection ofChrist (Alithos Anesti). I’m sure I may have omitted someoneto thank so in everyone’s honor, THANK YOU!On Sunday, June 9th, we will be conducting our first GeneralAssembly of the year in the upstairs General Assembly Roomin the Huffington Center (approximately at 12:30 P.M.). TheGeneral Assembly is the governing body of the whole churchand we would like as many pledged parishioners to attend aspossible. To be able to conduct this kind of a town hallmeeting, we need 50 pledged stewards to sign-in at thebeginning of the meeting. We will discuss and shareinformation representing the different ministries of SaintSophia and would love to have your input and ideas to helpguide us in representing YOU, our faithful parishioners. Wewill also discuss the first six months of our budget and explainabout our goals for the remainder of the year and plans for thefuture. Please make every effort to attend the GeneralAssembly and offer your valuable comments and support!Sometimes we short-change the celebration of Father’s Daydue to the fact that traditionally, only a mother is regarded asthe sole nurturer of a child. But all of us know that a father isjust as important for a child, especially for the spiritual,emotional, physical, financial and social well being of thatchild. I am very fortunate and lucky to have a father-in-law,Nickolas Edwards, who I celebrate as my living and wonderfuldad. My family and I depend on him as our role model andmentor, a true practitioner of our Greek Orthodox faith, achampion of philanthropy especially when there is someoneless fortunate, a true historian, an economist, lover of the artsand humanities, caretaker of the Earth, fundamentalist,politician, role model and friend to all. You will never hear anunkind or negative word from his mouth, but instead willmarvel at his warm smile and caring heart. He cherishes lifelike Zorba the Greek and makes our family dinners come alivelike My Big Fat Greek Wedding. He is caring, loving and thebest grandfather to our kids. He is a teacher, a philosopherand a wiz at the stock market. He is an honorable man and agood husband. He epitomizes what great dads should be andwill always be my role model on how to get it right. He givesunconditionally and would rather go without so that someoneelse can benefit more. I love my dad and appreciate himbeyond words. His biggest gift (other than his heart) he gaveto me almost 31 years ago, my loving Philoptohos Presidentand wife, Virginia…and he gave me the entrance into being amember of his faith and family. I wish all of you a very HappyFather’s Day and hope that you will share how you feel aboutyour dad with him, too.Brent A. NoyesParish Council President

June 2013 Page 5STEWARDSHIPBelieve and Belong through Christian Stewardship$4,000 To $5,999Zaferis, Mr. & Mrs. James*Anonymous (1)STEWARDSHIP FAMILIES APRIL 2013Georgeson, Mr. & Mrs. MichaelSavas, Dr. DianaKoukis, Mr. & Mrs. PandelisSideris, Ms. PatriciaSideris, Mr. & Mrs. GeorgeStamos, Mr. & Mrs. Andy$2,000 To $3,999Arkoumanis, Mr. & Mrs. LeontiosPetrow, Ms. LucyAnonymous (1)$1,000 To $1,999Ambatielos, Ms. EugeniaAnastasatos, Dr. JohnCosfol, Mr. & Mrs. PeterGalanakis, Mr. & Mrs. ApostolosAnonymous (3)$500 To $999Cosfol, Mrs. EroDalkas, Mr. & Mrs. AnthonyDella Corna, Mr. & Mrs. AlbertoDeryiades, Mrs. VickieHarrison, Mr. & Mrs. NicholasJones, Mrs. MaryRinks, Mr. & Mrs. RodneyAnonymous (3)OTHERGiannoulis, Mr. & Mrs. ChrisKitchens, Mr. ChristopherMarkham, Mr. JosephMitropetros, Mr. & Mrs. ConstantinosAnonymous (2)* Life Members Endowment Fund +Blessed Memory

Page 6June 2013PHILOPTOHOS NEWSIt is with pleasure that I announce the results of theelections for the Board of Directors Officers:President: Virginia Noyes1st Vice President: Helene Ballas2nd Vice President: Marianna PolitisRecording Secretary: Mary GallanisCorresponding Secretary: Lola GialketsisTreasurer: Scarlett BillisThe Board of Directors members are:Frances Bissias; Judie Christopoulos; PaulineEvangelatos; Olga Jordan; Tricia Kremer; Coni Manders;Sophie Mastor; Dina Oldknow; Jan Pastras; ChristinaPeratsakis; Jayne Poullos; Sonia Stathes; AllisonStavaridis; Mary Tassop and Maria Toczek.I would like to take this moment to thank all of the womenon the Board of Directors, and everyone in thecommunity, for your support these last two years. We’reon a path that involves new projects and there issomething for everyone! I’m looking forward to anotherwonderful two years! We will work closely with ourpriests Father Bakas and Father Boyd, the Parish Counciland the Trustees to continue moving Saint Sophiaforward and reaching out to help others.OPERATION LACE UP: Our Philoptohos chapter isspearheading a new project starting this month. We arejoining with the FOCUS group to get a new pair of tennisshoes – twice a year – to every homeless student registeredin the Los Angeles Unified School District. There are 60,000students registered as ‘homeless’, in LAUSD, more than anyother city in the United States. They are living on the streetsor in cars, with their families. These children suffer fromfatigue/lack of sleep, poor physical health and hunger. We arelooking for volunteers who may wish to help sort the shoes atthe warehouse, for distribution to the schools. Please see theflyer enclosed in this bulletin for more information if you areinterested in helping. We will be having other events andfundraisers for this project throughout this coming year.we do and this is why we put on fundraisers throughout theyears. Our Debutante Ball, Mother’s Day, Evening WithFriends – these events are the source of the income we needto fulfill our obligations to National, the Metropolis and ourlocal charities. “For the poor you always have with you,but you do not always have me” John 12:8.Philoptohos work is often emotionally sad and difficult andsome cases are very hard for us. But the ‘good’ outcomeskeep us going, give us the strength and the encouragement tocontinue our work and do what we can to help people. Ourchapter continues to help children at the Salvin School forspecial needs students, Holy Cross Hellenic College, the LosAngeles Mission and the USO Phone Cards for Soldiersprogram. We help soldiers to call home and speak to theirfamilies – we help the Los Angeles Mission feed hundredsand hundreds of people every day at breakfast time - and wewill continue to help the children and families at the SalvinSchool with food boxes at the holidays and special help thatmay be needed.Outreach cases continue to increase and our help is requiredmore and more for people who are suffering with illnessesand financial needs. Philoptohos is supposed to help peoplewhile they recover from an unforeseen circumstance or illnessand try to get back on their feet again. If you know ofsomeone who needs our help, please contact us.With love in Christ’s service,Virginia Noyes and the Philoptohos Board of DirectorsThe Mission Statement of Philoptohos “ To aid the poor, thedestitute, the hungry, the aged, the sick, the unemployed, theorphaned, the imprisoned, the widowed, the handicapped, thevictims of disasters, to undertake the burial of impoverishedpersons and to offer assistance to anyone who may need thehelp of the church through fund raising efforts…” this is what

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Page 8PHILANTHROPIA NEWSΧριστος Ανεστη! Christ Is Risen!Thank you: Thank God we are back home…after nearly nineweeks that our family was displaced in a hotel because ofdamage to our home. We thank all of you for your prayersand well wishes, especially to the dear ladies of thePhiloptohos chapters for their kindness in words andactions.Annual Appeal Letters: The response from the AnnualAppeal letters mailed prior to Christmas is awesome! Thankyou for your support and contributions thus far. Please sendin your donation, if you have not already done so, in order thatwe may honor our commitments to our projects. Thank youso much!Used Clothing and Canned Goods: Thank you for all thegenerous donations of used clothing during the holidays andbeyond. This is a year-long project, so please continue yourdonations as there are still many we need to reach. Pleaseidentify all clothing donations on the outside of the bags byindicating whether they are for men, women or children. Thetwo new receptacles for "used clothing" and "canned goods"are working great. They are located side by side, in thegeneral area of the nursery. Thank you!Get on the Bus: This project is in full swing of collectingmonies so that we may sponsor a bus again this year. Exacttimes and dates are forthcoming but will be observed onMothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day respectively. We will keepyou posted as the day approaches. Thank you.The Wall-Las Memorias Project: We continue to supportRichard Zaldivar, Executive Director, in their quest toachieve the same goals we have for continued AIDSeducation, awareness and prevention.Street Outreach: Thank you to everyone who has donatedso far. To date, more than $1,200.00 worth of items havebeen collected and distributed to the abandoned children inthe outreach for the Children’s Hospital of LosAngeles. Dr. Nikos Stefanidis, Ph.D. a Staff Psychologist atChildren’s Hospital, L.A., is the Clinical Director of this HighRisk Program. Your continued help will assure that thesechildren are cared for year round by purchasing newitems such as the following: T-Shirts (M-L), Boxers (M-L),White Socks, Blankets, Sleeping Bags,Sweatshirts; Snacks, Water/Juices; Bus Tokens;Sneakers; Hygiene Items (Travel Size); Tooth Brushesand Toothpaste; Shampoo; Deodorant; Sun Screen. Besure to label them for Dr. Nikos Stefanidis and leavethem by the clothing bins. We will make sure that he comesto pick them up. Thank you.PHILOPTOHOS VIPCruise in Newport Beach Harbor - June 27, 2013June 2013Philanthropia Website: The “Winter” issue of thePhilanthropia Newsletter was mailed recently and will be onthe website shortly at: www.philanthropiaministry.org Wethank Perry Lambert who is coordinating ourwebsite. (Note: We will be preparing a “Spring-Summer”combined issue of the newsletter this year while we get ouroffice “back to normal” after the repairs. Thank you for yourunderstanding.)God bless you!With loveFather PeterPlan to join us on a beautiful and fun cruise around the harborof Newport Beach. After the cruise we'll be having lunch atHarborside Restaurant overlooking the bay. We can then visitthe Maritime Museum and shop at the various boutiquesaround the Peninsula. The cost of the trip is $40.00 perperson and it includes the cruise, the food and the bus. Be atchurch at 8:30am as the bus will be leaving shortly after that.Chairperson is Catherine Erwin at (818)783-4811. Paidreservation is a must. Please mail checks to Catherine Erwin,4240 Fulton Ave #109, Studio City, CA 91604. We'll back atchurch around 5:00pm.YOUTH NEWS - JUNEYouth Program ContactsALTAR BOYSChris Halekakiscjhmgmt@gmail.comBASKETBALLPaul Coopermrpaul599@sbcglobal.netCAMP ZOEFr. John Bakasfrbakas@stsophia.orgGREEK DANCEBarbara KapposBkappos@aol.comHELLENIC ACADEMYAndri Christodoulidouandri.christodoulidou@cantab.netODOS “The Way”Orthodox Development of SpiritualityHelen LambrosHLambros@aol.comSAINT SOPHIA CAMPMelanie O’Reganmell0n@aol.comsaintsophiacamp.orgSUNDAY SCHOOLEleni Yokaseyokas@college.usc.edu

June 2013 Page 9Youth Calendar of eventsSunday SchoolDive into SummerEnd of School Year Youth CelebrationSunday, June 2, 2013We Were YAL OnceYAL 30 Year Reunion Weekend Set for July 4-7. TheYoung Adults League (YAL) is calling all alumni of the annualmeetings over the last 30 years to reunite for fun andfellowship on July 4-7. "Reunite to Unite" is the theme of thisweekend in Dallas, Texas, where it all started. Former“YALers” and their families of all ages are welcome. Activitiesinclude a fireworks show, Texas BBQ, Grand Banquet andDance, a talent show, an '80s dance party. Divine Liturgy willbe held on Sunday. For more information, email:YAL30thReunion@gmail.com, or visit the website:www.YAL30thReunion.com.CHOIR NEWSJoin us after Liturgy for a time of food, fun, fellowship andfamily as we celebrate the accomplishments of all of SaintSophia’s youth ministries. There will be a waterslide, jumper,snow cones, as well as burgers, hot dogs, and fries by NickBegakis. All kids who want to play on the waterslide pleasebring modest swim-wear to change into after church.Saint Sophia CampSummer is NearCamper Registration is Openwww.saintsophiacamp.orgCamp Dates:Session I - August 4 - August 11, 2013Session II - August 11 - August 17, 2013Before June 15th: $400 per camper/per sessionAfter June 15th prices will increase to $450 per camper/per sessionRegistration will close July 1stWe are still accepting applications for councelorsApplications are available at www.saintsophiacamp.orgCouncelors must be over 18 years oldSaint Sophia Camp, 1324 S. Normandie Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90006310.869.4499Photo: Courtesy of George ThemelisThe Saint Sophia Cathedral Choir is proud to announce itslatest CD, Come Receive the Light! which is now availablefor sale in the Saint Sophia Bookstore or Saint SophiaNarthex.The CD features choral excerpts from Palm Sunday, HolyWeek and Easter transcribed, composed and arranged by Dr.Frank Desby. During Holy Week some of the most beautifulpieces of Orthodox hymnology are chanted and sung.Included in this recording is a small portion of this vasthymnology that has been part of our music ministry at SaintSophia for over 60 years.This recording would not have been possible without thesponsorship of our most generous benefactor, ConstanceManders who dedicates this recording to her children,Alexandria and Nikolas, and to the memory of her parents,Gloria and William Manders.

Page 10MINISTRIESJune 2013Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox CathedralVery Reverend Father John S. Bakas, Dean Reverend Father Allan (Gabriel) BoydJim Kollias, Choir Director Dimitris Liogris , Protopsaltis Michael Kontaxis, Assistant PsaltisChristopher Yokas, OrganistJames Karatsikis, SextonFOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEESExecutive OfficersGeorge E. Preonas, PresidentAndrew Evangelatos, Executive Vice PresidentDr. James A. Demetriou, Vice President & C.F.O.Constantine Boukidis, SecretaryTina Callas, TreasurerMembersV. Rev. Fr. John S. Bakas Nicholas BissiasTimi Loomos Freshman Alek Haidos Steve HannaMichael Huffington Gig Kyriacou Brent NoyesJohn T. Pappas Jim ZaferisPresidential AppointmentsAnthony A. Demetriou, Presidential AssistantJohn G. Marakas III, Sr. Advisor to the BoardPARISH COUNCIL BOARD OF DIRECTORSExecutive OfficersBrent Noyes, PresidentJohn Kopatsis, Vice PresidentIrene Andreadis, Recording SecretaryKaren Sarames, Corresponding SecretaryMichael Kraios, Treasurer & C.F.O.MembersBertha Angels Eleni Constantine ManolelisJeanine Hanna Glenn Lianos Loula MoschonasKouji Nakata Alex Oxyzolou Peter PallasDean Peratsakis Dorothy SpirusAuditing CommitteeAnthony Demetriou Tom MoorePHILOPTOHOS SOCIETYExecutive OfficersVirginia Noyes, PresidentMarianna Politis, 1st Vice PresidentHelene Ballas, 2nd Vice PresidentMary Gallanis, Recording SecretaryLola Gialketsis, Corresponding SecretaryScarlett Billis, TreasurerDina Oldknow, AdvisorHonorary Life MembersJennie DoumakMembersFrances Bissias Judith ChristopoulosChristine PeratisConnie CooperPauline Evangelatos Olga Jordan Tricia Ballas KremerConstance Manders Sophie Mastor Jan PastrasChristina Peratsakis Diane Pruett Sonia StathesMary TassopOFFICE STAFFMaria ToczekHelen Ellis, Office Administrator Ann Pappas, Events Admin.Chris Halekakis, Facilities DirectorCUSTODIAL STAFFLeonard Hart Miguel Rosales Mauricio MiraALTAR BOYSChris HalekakisBASKETBALLGig Kyriacou & Paul CooperBIBLE STUDYVery Rev. Father John BakasRev. Father Allan BoydBOOK STOREWilliam StriglosCAMP ZOEVery Rev. Father John BakasCHILD CAREKathy & Marsha ZagorianosCHOIRJim KolliasCOFFEE HOURAnn PappasGeorgia VasilaDOCENTSFaye DemetriouEASTER PICNICTed PappasGREEK DANCE GROUPSBarbara KapposGREEKS in HOLLYWOODDina DemetriusHELLENIC ACADEMYAndri ChristodoulidouHOSPITALITYNiki KorbakisMaria PelargosL.A. GREEK FESTJohn Boudouvas andEleni Constantine ManolellisMR. & MRS. CLUBDean & Christine PeratsakisODOS “The Way”Helen LambrosPARENTINGNick StefanidisBarbara KapposPHILANTHROPIARev. Father Peter LambertPHILOPTOHOS V.I.P.Mary Morrison, PresidentSAINT SOPHIA CAMPMelanie O’ReganJack Stumpus (Golf Event)Tony Mastor (Tennis Event)Mary-Kay Demetriou (TennisEvent)SUNDAY SCHOOLEleni YokasYOUTHRev. Father Allan Boyd

June 2013 Page 11JUNE SACRAMENTS & MEMORIALSSaturday 1Saturday 8Sunday 23Saturday 1Sunday 2Saturday 8Alexander Pappas and Christina KegeyanKoumbaros: Steve MetsovasGeorgia Mantas and Robert WithersKoumbara: Anastasia TriantosEsther Khurdagyan and Albert BitarSponsor: Michael BitarSaturday 15 Trisha Lynne Wenke and Stergious ArkoumanisKoumbaros: Nicholas Kapellakis BataliaSunday 16Friday 21BAPTISMSGeorge SingerGodparent: Theodosios RoussosBrooklyn EvaDaughter of Peter and Eva CarasGodparent: Adriana CarasStefanos NikolaosSon of Theodore Giannakis and Lucy KoliussiGodparent: Dino KokonisKonstandinosSon of Johnny Fan andChristina Mavromichalis-FanGodparent: Irene MitropetrosWEDDINGSJennifer Marchbanks and Ryan JayetilekeKoumbaros: Chris W. Caras Jr.Shahinaz Soliman and Carl SilvaKoumbaros: Dr. John AnastasastosMelissa Awad and Okeme OziwoCaroline Nasr and Nicolas WirzKoumbara: Eleni VenetsanosSaturday 22 Chee Hur and Ihab A. Abumuhora special wedding anniversarySunday, June 23, 2013Coffee Hour will be sponsored byTony and Helen and Jim and Faye Demetriouin the Maniatakos Hall, following the LiturgyCake and coffee will be served in celebration of their60th Wedding AnniversariesTony and HelenJim and FayeJune 14, 1953 July 19, 1953All are invitedAileen PreonasAlexandra GeorgiouAlice DaglasKonstantinos KontesSteve SkoutarisIrene MarsCynthia PaulosAlexia HaidosValerie Llauro Jr.Thomas J. WardDaniel KiragesAngeliki PentheroudakisJennie FotinakesSusan SimitziGeorge John MiserlisDean AnaniasDonna MellosFrances KaravedasSophia LambertChrisoula FullerChrysoula HagianakesJune 2June 9June 16June 23June 30June 2June 9Gregory PappasVirginia Pappas MuseyBIRTHDAYSDr. William Evangelatos - 6 yearsBill AngelosKatherine AngelosAnna EvangelatosDennis EvangelatosGeorge EvangelatosSteve EvangelatosAnn GoucherKonstandina MisemikeMary KatsapisFred Fuller - 1 yearEPISTLE READERSFrank YokasToula KalatzisVickie DaryadisTula Van AlstinePresbytera Danita BoydMaximos AyersAlexandros OxyzolouErica Lee CallasBertha AngelsLillian LatsisNadine ParkosChristine CallasAlexis NoyesDean SpilosNicholas HowardKatherine ManosMargarita StephanouAki VourakisDiane Sakellaris LapaMelanie O'ReganBill TragusZafiris TsimahidesGeorgia NicholsBrent A. NoyesAnastasia CokasMEMORIALSOn Sunday, June 2, 1023, The Hellenic Society ofConstantinople of Los Angeles will have their annualmemorial for the deceased members of the Society. On thesame day will have the 560th year memorial of the conquest ofConstantinople by the Ottoman Turks.June 23Clarence (Red) Colyer - 1 yearJune 30Marian Noplos - 1 yearHellen Stringos Arias - 3 yearsBessie StringosTheodore StringosMary StringosErnie Ales - 20 yearsPerry D. CaiopoulosPresbytera Moskovia ZagorianosTheano ZagorianosMichael FaklisParaskevi Sargent

Page 12COMMUNITY NEWSJune 2013June 9, 2013: General Assembly Meeting--All Parishioners WelcomePlease join the Parish Council for our first General Assembly meeting of 2013. We liken it to a Town Hall meeting wherewe can share positive news about our community and exciting plans for the future. We want to hear your questionsand concerns, too. Gather after Divine Liturgy, at approximately 12:30 pm, upstairs in the Huffington center GeneralAssembly room. Minutes from our last general assembly meeting are posted on-line as well as available in the churchoffice for review prior to the General Assembly Meeting in order to omit reading them during the meeting.Holy Week Floral DonorsPalm SundayDecorated Icon (Large) -Mrs. Christine PeratisDecorated Icon (Small) -Mr. & Mrs. Steve HannaHoly MondayDecorated Icon (Large) -Mr. & Mrs. Andrew EvangelatosHoly TuesdayDecorated Icon (Large) -Mrs. Electra KoutsoukosHoly ThursdayWreath -Dr. & Mrs. J. W. DuncanCrucifixion Icon -Mr. & Mrs. Bill PapalexisWide Floral at Base of the Cross -Mr. & Mrs. George VarentgesSmall Headpiece Wreath -Mrs. Zoe FovosGood FridayExtreme Humility Icon -Mr. & Mrs. John RommEpitaphios Rose Pedals -Mr. & Mrs. Chase MorrisonAltar Candles -Mr. & Mrs. John RhoadsHoly SaturdayResurrection Banner -Mr. & Mrs. Andy GalanisA Paschal Thank You!The following individuals and families lovingly contributed to the spirituality and beauty of Holy Week and Easter.donations not only filled us with the joy of the season but also glorified our Lord Jesus Christ .Resurrection Icon -Mr. & Mrs. Donald LapaAltar Candles -Mr. & Mrs. John RommLarge Floral Arrangement -Mr. & Mrs. Alek HaidosThe Edwards FamilyThe Noyes FamilyAltar Candles (Both Sides) -Mrs. Helen EvangelatosMr. & Mrs. Harry SiafarisResurrection Candles (Priests),Floral Wreaths and Floral Baskets for MyhrrBearers -Ms. Jane PoullosEpitaphios Floral DonorsMr. & Mrs. Nick Bissias & FamilyDr. & Mrs. Michael PatsakisMr. & Mrs. Ted ManiatakosMr. & Mrs. John T. PappasMr. & Mrs. Julian RebigaDr. Maria T. ToczekThe Zonos FamilyEaster Lilies DonorsMr. & Mrs. Giorgios ChristodoulidouMrs. Mersy LoukarisMrs. Panayiota PaziourasMrs Mary WoloschinowischMr. & Mrs. George DascaluMs. Melanie O’ReganMr. & Mrs. Mark ChassmanMs. Mary A. LigarMs. Margaret M. O’GormanMr. & Mrs. John AndreiMr. & Mrs Brent NoyesMr. & Mrs John StamatiadesMrs. Helen LambrosHoly Week VolunteersMrs. Mary KeziosMrs. Sophia KapogiannisMrs. Dora Lee SpiropoulosMrs. Dina NicholsEpitaphios Flowers DecoratorsMrs. Katie EagarMrs. Mary GallanisMs. Anastasia KouyiasMrs. Vicky AmbatielosMrs. Christine KadesMrs. Nia ZaferisMrs. Vannie KaravasMrs. Emily Rosedale-KousoulisMs. Georgia ArvanitisMrs. Tina CallasMrs. Doris KouyiasMs. Cleo KadesTheirA special thanks to GeorgiaDefterios Family for theirgenerosity throughout the year, andto the Golden Greek, Nick Kontesand family for providing the Eastereggs.

June 2013 Page 13COMMUNITY NEWSChristos Anesti !!It was another great Easter Picnic at Brookside Park inPasadena on Easter Sunday, May 5, 2013. The park wasfilled with more than 1750 people who came to celebrate theResurrection with family and friends even though it was a coldand cloudy day.We are all very fortunate that 91 years ago this great traditionwas started by the founding members of our great Cathedraland by all accounts, it is the only event of its type in theUnited States. On behalf of my picnic committee, Stephanieand Dan Lubian, Tony Dres, Dean Treantafelles and ToulaKalatzis, I extend my sincere thank you to everyone whoattended. We also thank all the volunteers (on both Saturdayand Sunday) who contributed to making our Easter Picnic asuccessful event. We also thank all of our donors who wereso generous with their financial support towards the NeedsList. In addition, the following individuals were alsoinstrumental in helping us to make this event happen: GeorgePreonas, Tina Callas, Ntino Boukidis, Virginia Noyes and thewonderful ladies of St Sophia Philoptohos, Brent Noyes, AnnPappas, Chris Halekakis and his church staff (Leonard,Miguel and Mauricio). We also extend our thanks to JimZaferis and Van Ambatielos for their continued generosity. Wecouldn’t have done it without all of you who we consider our“Easter Angels.” On a personal note, I thank my committeemembers for their time, support and dedication. You werefantastic!See you next year on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2014.Ted J. Pappas, Easter Picnic Chairman

Page 14COMMUNITY NEWSJune 2013Hellenic Academy Year Draws to an EndAnother school year will soon be completed. With joy andgratitude for a yet wonderful year, on June 8 th the students ofthe Hellenic Academy will present a program to reach thefinishing line on a cheerful note.It has indeed been a blessed 10 th month period for theHellenic Academy. As always, our hope is that the children,during this time, have collected some valuable experiences.We pray that under the guidance and embrace of our SaintSophia Cathedral, children have not only been navigatingthrough the language of our faith and heritage, but alsoformed healthy friendships and accumulated some spiritualtreasure.The academic year began on September 15 th with Agiasmo.Parents, students, and teachers gathered at the Cathedralprior the assignment to classes to receive the blessed waterand pray that it sanctifies their activities throughout the year.It has been a wonderful opportunity also for our newcomers tomeet with Father John and Father Allan and receive theirwarm welcome.Sunday October 28 th has also been a special day for theHellenic Academy. A big celebration was held at the Hanks-Wilson Cultural Center to commemorate the negativeresponse given by the Greek officials to the Italian ultimatumalso known as ‘OXI’ Day. The response of Saint SophiaParishioners to the event was heartwarming. Many attendedthe celebration to support the program. They enthusiasticallyapplaud the children in presenting poems, songs and skit. Weare indebted to the parents and other parishioners whovolunteered at the event and deeply grateful to AHEPADistrict 20 for kindly sponsoring the lunch to fundraise for theHellenic Academy operational needs.Another beautiful opportunity for the children to experienceour heritage and learn more about Orthodox Faith has beenthe Observance of the Mikro Agiasmo prior to Theofaneia andthe Vasilopita Cutting on Saturday, 5 th of January, 2013. Afterthe Service, Father Allan distributed the Vasilopita to theHellenic Academy. We are very grateful that he also took thetime to explain the origin of this beautiful tradition, providing avaluable insight into the meaning of the occasion.On March 23 rd the academy celebrated the anniversary of theGreek war of Independence Day. Despite our celebration wassmall, the teachers and students put a great deal of effort topresent with pride and flair. It is certainly memorable for all ofus attending.We are particularly pleased that the last couple of years,Greek and Sunday school children together participate in thePancake breakfast and Pageant Rehearsal before Christmasand in the Palm Tying on Lazarus Saturday, after the Liturgy.We are grateful to the Sunday School Director Eleni Yokas forreaching out to us for yet another year and for taking the timeto organize and coordinate these events.Finally, it has been an exciting and a great opportunity to hoston June 1 st a Greek Play for children written in our Greeklanguage. The children happily attended the play and had aunique opportunity to participate in a drama workshopafterwards. We are grateful to the Hesperia- AlkandreFoundation, which made a donation towards supportingcultural events.Of course, many people including the Saint Sophia Cathedralstaff and volunteers are working hard in making it all happen. Iam thankful and deeply grateful to each one and all, who arelovingly assisting the academy throughout this process, oftenoperating within various limitations and obstacles; It is amiracle done by the Lord’s Grace. To those of you behindand not behind the scenes, thank you...you know who youare..With gratitudeAndri Christodoulidou

June 2013 Page 15Don't Miss the Los Angeles Greek Film Festival - June 6 - 9, 2013Now in its seventh year, the Los Angeles Greek Film Festival showcases movies by Greek filmmakers from around the globe.Highlighting the best new films from Greece and Cyprus, as well as works by international filmmakers of Greek descent, thefestival has included such cinematic luminaries as Alexander Payne, Penelope Spheeris, Phedon Papamichael and OlympiaDukakis.Along with the film screenings, which include a number of U.S. and world premieres, each year the festival's prestigious OrpheusAwards are presented to the most outstanding new films in the Dramatic, Documentary and Short Film categories and this yearwe will pay tribute to Elia Kazan, featuring his Academy Award winning drama America America as our CenterpieceFilm, presented by Kary Antholis, HBO's President of Miniseries & Cinemax Programming.Please visit our website www.lagff.org for a detailed schedule. Films screened in Greek with English subtitles unless otherwisenoted.WRITERS GUILD THEATER135 S. Doheny DriveBeverly HillsFree parking available adjacent to the theaterArarat Eskijian MuseumArarat-Eskijian Museum, Hasmik Mgrdichian Gallery15105 Mission Hills Road, Mission Hills, CA 91345A Documentary Presenting“ IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE ARGONAUTS”and a Talk by Nikos Michailidis,PhD Candidate, Department of Anthropology, Princeton UniversitySunday, June 9, 2013, at 4:00 pmDuring the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, the Greek communities of Pontos which managed to survive from the genocidalpolicies of the Young Turks regime in the beginning of the 20 th century, were relocated in mainland Greece and inother countries. The memories and experiences of that generation passed on to the younger through oral narratives, creationof archives, personal memoir publications, music, dance, and lectures organized and supported by an extensive networkof cultural associations that had been founded in Greece since 1923.The current generation of Pontian-Greeks, that grew up without having any significant immediate contact with the eldermembers of the community who were born and raised in Pontos, faces further challenges of memory loss and struggles tomaintain a sense of Pontian-Greek identity by making use of all these diverse mnemonic practices. “Learning the historyof the ancestors” is central in their attempt to form their subjectivities. The documentary “In the Footsteps of the Argonauts”constitutes such an attempt to learn, to remember, and to belong. This lecture will serve both as an introduction tothe documentary and as a presentation of the current quest of younger Pontian-Greeks to form a modern sense of identitythat maintains lively links with the past and with a geographic region that has been lost.● Admission free (Donations appreciated)●Reception following the program, Nikos Michailidis will be playing a few traditional songs with thePontian Lyra (Kemenche).For more information contact the Ararat- Eskijian Museum at 818- 838-4862E-mail: Ararat-eskijian-museum@netzero.net

Page 16June 2013

June 2013 Page 17May 15, 2013Dear Saint Sophia Parishioners,Christos Anesti !!!GREEK ORTHODOX METROPOLIS OF SAN FRANCISCOCHURCH MUSIC FEDERATION2013 Church Music ConferenceChurch Musicfest under the Byzantine DomeClergy – Laity – Adult Choir – Chanters – Youth ChoirLet everything that has breath Praise the Lord! Psalm 150 v.6In addition to your attendance at the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrated on Sunday, June 30, 2013 during the weekendof this year’s Church Music Conference, we wish to cordially invite you to attend our Friday evening Dinner / MovieNight and our Sunday Farewell Luncheon which will both take place in the Huffington Center at the Saint SophiaManiatokos Fellowship Hall. Space is limited as we only have room for 100 Saint Sophia parishioners to attend eachevent.The Friday evening dinner at 5:30 p.m. on June 28, 2013 is an “American” themed meal followed by a specialperformance by Michele Patzakis Prappas and Neal Desby who will present five American Folk Songs arranged by NealDesby for soprano and piano accompaniment. Neal will be present to accompany Michele and to speak about hiscompositions. They are truly extraordinary. We will also have a few musical surprises from our beloved Greece followedby everyone in attendance walking to the Gianopoulos Family Theater for a special movie night featuring an Americanmovie musical classic.The Sunday Farewell Luncheon scheduled after the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on June 30, 2013 is a tradition for eachyear’s Church Music Conference. All conference participants will be present for the last event associated with theirannual conference.Please see below for reservations and payment details. Reservations close June 18, 2013.In Christ,Brent Noyes Christopher P. Yokas Jim H. KolliasConference Co-Chair Conference Co-Chair Conference Co-ChairReservation InformationPrint your name__________________________________Telephone___________________Friday Evening Dinner @ 5:30 p.m._______will attend at $30 per adult and $15 per childSunday Farewell Luncheon _____will attend at $25 per adult and $12 per childI am unable to attend, please accept my donation of_______to benefit all Saint Sophia Ministriesand the development and training of chanters, adult choirs and youth choirs throughout the Metropolis.Please mail your reservations or contributions along with this form to:Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox CathedralPlease make checks payable toAttn: Helene BallasSaint Sophia Cathedral1324 South Normandie Avenue Memo: Church Music ConferenceLos Angeles, California 90006

Page 18June 2013SAVETHE DATEFOR THIS YEAR’SBIGGESTBLOCKBUSTER.LA’s world-famous Greek festival at Saint Sophia Cathedral is back thisSeptember with a fresh look and an incredible line up of food, beer, wine,live music, dancing and more. Mark your calendars for September 6, 7 & 8and help us make it a year to remember. For donations or volunteerinquiries, email: lagreekfest@gmail.com

June 2013 Page 19Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat2Sunday of theSamaritan Woman3June 201345 619:30am HellenicAcademy (PreK-6)12:30pm HellenicAcademy (adults7 88:15am Orthros9:15am FaithStudies9:45am Memorials10am Divine Liturgy9Sunday of BlindMan7:30pm Catechismw/Fr. Allan1010:00am BibleStudy w/Fr. John11:30am BibleStudy w/Fr. John11St. Bartholomew7:30pm OT BibleStudy w/Fr. Allan12 13Ascension9:30am HellenicAcademy (PreK-6)12:30pm HellenicAcademy (adults)14 158:15am Orthros9:15am FaithStudies9:45am Memorials10am Divine Liturgy16Fathers of theFirst Council7:30pm Catechismw/Fr. Allan178:15am Orthros9:15am Liturgy8:15am Orthros9:15am Liturgy7:30pm OT BibleStudy w/Fr. Allan18 19 2021 22Saturdayof the Souls8:15am Orthros9:15am FaithStudies9:45am Memorials10am Divine Liturgy23Holy Pentecost8:15am Orthros9:15am FaithStudies9:45am Memorials10am Divine Liturgy7:30pm Catechismw/Fr. Allan24Feast ofThe Holly Spiritand Nativity ofSt. John8:15am Orthros9:15am Liturgy7:30pm Catechismw/Fr. Allan7:30pm OT BibleStudy w/Fr. Allan25 26 277:30pm OT BibleStudy w/Fr. Allan8:15am Orthros9:15am Liturgy28 29ApostlesPeter and Paul8:15am Orthros9:15am Liturgy30The SundayOf All SaintsChoir FederationStrict Fast Fish Allowed Wine and OilAllowedDairy, Eggs,and FishAllowedFast Free8:30am Orthros10am Divine Liturgy11:45am Memorials

Page Saint Sophia 20 Greek CathedralGreek Orthodox Community1324 South Normandie AvenueLos Angeles, California 90006TIME SENSITIVEJune 2013Place address label herePhone323 737 2424Fax323 737 7029E-mailoffice@stsophia.orgWe’re on the Web!www.stsophia.orgWe should seek not somuch to praybut to become prayer