THE PROMISE

Wait for the promise of the Father...

FEAST OF THE NATIVITY

December 2007

INTRODUCTION The Feast of the Nativity of Jesus is one of the most joyful days of the Orthodox Church. It ranks next to the greatest holiday, the Resurrection of Jesus. The Feast of the Birth of Jesus is also known as the "Incarnation of Christ." This means that Jesus became a man and came into the world to save us. We also refer to this joyous feast as Christmas. Biblical Story The story of the Nativity of Christ is beautifully told in the Holy Scriptures. The story is found in HYPERLINK: "http://bible.gospelcom.net/cgi-bin/bible?language=english&version=NKJV&passage=Matthew %2B1%3A18-25&x=0&y=0" \t "_blank" Matthew 1:18-25 and in HYPERLINK: "http://bible.gospelcom.net/cgi-bin/bible?language=english&version=NKJV&passage=Luke%2 B2%3A1-20&x=0&y=0" \t "_blank" Luke 2:1-20. No matter how often the Birth of Jesus is told, we realize that it is an importa nt event. As the story is told by the Apostles, the Roman Empire was powerful. The Romans had conquered much of the then known world. Judea and Samaria, what we know today as Israel, were included in their conquests. Emperor Augustus ordered that a census be taken in all his lands. He needed to know how many people lived in the empire so he could tax them. Everyone had to go to the town of their fami-

Volume 31, Issue 9

ly's origin to register for the census. This meant that Mary and Joseph had to go to Bethlehem. They were descendants of King David and Bethlehem was the City of David. Mary and Joseph lived in Nazareth and it was a great distance from Bethlehem. It was about 100 miles over very rugged roads. Moreover, Mary was expecting the baby and it was almost time for her to give birth. Bethlehem was a small town and there were many descendants of David who had come to register for the census. By the time Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem there was no place for them to stay. Joseph tried very hard to find a place to sleep that evening. There was no room at the inn. Finally, Joseph found a cave-like place where they could rest. This place was used by shepherds to protect their sheep in stormy weather. It was here that Mary gave birth to Jesus. The baby was wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in the straw in the manger. Now, that night the shepherds were out in the fields guarding their sheep. Suddenly, there was a bright light which startled the shepherds. The light was so bright that it turned the night into daylight. Of course, the shepherds were frightened. Nothing such as this had ever happened. Soon an angel appeared and calmed them. The angel said:

"Fear not for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior; which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: You shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger" (Luke 2:11-12). continued on p.3

THE PROMISE

Community Corner

DATES IN THE LIFE OF OUR CHURCH

THE PROMISE Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church A parish of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and the Metropolis of New Jersey 250 Gallows Hill Road, Westfield, NJ 07090-1109 Tel (908) 233-8533 Fax (908) 233-0623 Visit our Website at: holytrinitywestfield.org Fr. Peter’s email: [email protected] VRev. Fr. Peter Delvizis, Presiding Priest OFFICE STAFF Irene Panagakos, Parish Administrator Jean O’Dowd, Accounting Manager Ocione Nunes, Caretaker WORSHIP Pascalis Kuvalakis, Psaltis Kathryn Athanasoulas, Adult/Angel Choir, Dir. Phyllis Verenes, Organist Michael Wolff, Head Acolyte MINISTRIES Parish Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B. Theodore Bozonelis Philoptochos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mary Demiris Religious Education . . . . . . . . .Louis Martin, Eleftheria Wolff Greek School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rita Fitanidis Trinity Circle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Helen Hiotis TAG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .George Skorinko Youth (GOYA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Annie Zourzoukis JOY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TOTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Joanne Paras Bookstore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sandy Mouratoglou COMMITTEES Cultural . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Barbara Manos Greek School PTO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Nina Anastasiou Outreach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Robert LoAlbo FALL, WINTER AND SPRING SCHEDULE Sundays: Orthros, 8:45am Divine Liturgy, 10:00am Weekdays: Orthros, 8:30am Divine Liturgy, 9:30am Volume 31 Issue 9 10 issues published annually No Subscription Fee (article deadlines - 10th of the preceding month)

Saturday, December 1, Philoptochos Fashion Show at Bloomingdale’s, 9:00AM Sunday, December 2, Orthros, 8:45AM; Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM; Parish Council Elections; Youth Games with Toms River, 2:00PM; Youth Christmas Party in the Bouras Center, 6:00PM Tuesday, December 4, Feast Day of St. Barbara; Orthros, 8:30AM; Divine Liturgy, 9:30AM; Greek School, 4:00-6:00PM Wednesday, December 5, Great Vespers, 6PM; Philoptochos Christmas Dinner and General Meeting in the Bouras Center, 6:30PM Thursday, December 6, Feast Day of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker of Myra; Orthros, 8:30AM; Divine Liturgy, 9:30AM; Greek School, 4:00-6:00PM; Choir, 7:30PM Friday, December 7, Greek dance practice, HOPE, 7:00PM; JOY, 7:30PM Sunday, December 9, Orthros, 8:45AM; Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM; Wedding, 2:00PM Tuesday, December 11, Greek School, 4-6PM; Parish Council meeting, 7:30PM Wednesday, December 12, Feast Day of St. Spyridon the Wonderworker, Divine Liturgy, 9:30AM; TOTs, 10:00AM; Vespers, 6:30PM; Bible study, 7:10PM Thursday, December 13, Trinity Circle Christmas Luncheon for members only, BG Fields, 12PM; Greek School, 4:00-6:00PM Friday, December 14, JOY/HOPE Christmas Gathering, 6:00PM in the Bouras Center Saturday, December 15, Metropolis Byzantine Concert, Rutgers Univ., Kirkpatrick Chapel, 7:00PM Sunday, December 16, Orthros, 8:45AM; Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM; Religious Education Christmas Program in the Bouras Center; TAG/Trinity Circle outing to Princeton—bus leaves at Noon Tuesday, December 18, Greek School Christmas Program, 5:00PM, in the Bouras Center Sunday, December 23, Orthros, 8:45AM; Divine Christmas Pageant Liturgy, 10:00AM; rehearsal in Church; Baptism, 1:00PM Monday, December 24, Orthros and Royal Hours, 9AM; Great Vespers, 6PM; Divine Liturgy, 7PM followed by the Christmas Pageant Tuesday, December 25, Nativity of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ, Orthros, 8:00AM; Divine Liturgy, 9:00AM Sunday, Dec. 30, Orthros, 8:45AM; Divine Liturgy, 10AM; no Religious Education classes Monday, December 31, Divine Liturgy, 6:30PM

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Community Corner Tuesday, January 1, Feast Day of St. Basil the Great; New Year’s Day Friday, January 4, Forefeast of Epiphany, Orthros and Royal Hours, 9:00AM Saturday, January 5, Paramoni of Epiphany, Orthros, 8:30AM; Divine Liturgy with Great Blessing of Waters, 9:30AM; Great Vespers, 6:30PM Sunday, January 6, Holy Theophany, Orthros, 8:45AM; Divine Liturgy with Great Blessing of the Waters, 10:00AM; no Religious Education classes

continued from p.1

Then a larger group of angels appeared. They praised and glorified God and sang, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, and good will toward men" (Luke 2:14). When the angels finished singing, they disappeared and the light began to fade. It became dimmer and dimmer until it was dark again. The shepherds were awed. They didn't know what to do. Finally, they decided to leave their flocks of sheep and go to Bethlehem. They decided that they wanted to see for themselves what the angels had told them. When they got to Bethlehem, they found Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus. They fell to their knees and adored Jesus. Some Wise Men came from the East for they knew of the coming of Jesus. They had seen a star that told them that a new king had been born to the Jews. They followed the star and were looking for the child. At this time the governor of Judea was King Herod. He was a wicked man and was feared and hated by the people. When Herod heard about the Wise Men looking for the child, he invited them to his palace. Herod asked the Wise Men to find the child so that he, too, could worship Him. But Herod was lying. He did not want anyone to take his place. The Wise Men went on to look for Jesus. The Star led them to Jesus and Mary. When the Wise Men found Jesus, they fell to their knees and worshipped Him. They gave Jesus gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The Wise Men left but did not return to Herod. They had a dream that warned them that Herod wanted to harm Jesus. Instead, they returned to their native country by a different route.

Icon of the Nativity The icon of the Nativity tells the story of Christ's birth from the Scriptures. It also shows that all creation is taking part in Christ's birth. The angels give thanks with their song; the heavens give the star; the Wise Men give their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The poor, humble shepherds give their praise and amazement; the earth gives the cave, and humanity gives the Virgin. This Holy Icon is an icon with many scenes. First, it stresses the importance of the Theotokos, the Mother of Jesus (1). She is placed in the center and is the largest figure in the icon. In this icon, she is kneeling with crossed arms, looking at the Christ child. The three stars, denoting her virginity before, during, and after the Nativity, are on her garments. The Christ Child (2), in the center of the icon, is in swaddling clothes and is lying in the manger. In the background is the dark cave where He was born. In the cave are an ox and a donkey guarding the newborn Babe. Even though the Gospels say nothing of the cave, this information is from Holy Tradition. Neither do the Gospels speak of the ox and the donkey, but all icons of the Nativity include these animals. Including the animals in the icon fulfills the prophecy of HYPERLINK: "http://bible.gospelcom.net/cgi-bin/bible?language=english&version=NKJV&passage=Isaiah%2 B1%3A3&x=0&y=0" \t "_blank" Isaiah 1:3, "The ox knows his master, and the donkey his master's crib; but Israel does not know me, and the people have not regarded me." The long ray of light from the star points directly to the cave. This ray comes from the star and travels to all parts of the world. It teaches that this bright star is an astronomical happening, and is a messenger from heaven announcing the birth of Jesus. On the left hand side of the icon is another scene. The Wise Men (3), who were led by the star, are riding horses to bring their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus. The Wise Men are of various ages. One is without a beard. In those days, young men did not wear beards. The other Wise Man has long hair and a long beard, which indicates that he is much older. These details teach that regardless of age and appearance, the Good News was given to each and everyone.

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Community Corner Opposite the Wise Men is the scene with the humble shepherds. An angel proclaims the glad tidings. A young shepherd plays a reed instrument (4). This scene reveals that the music of the humans was added to the hymn of the angels. Across from the shepherd's scene is the heavenly choir of angels (5). They are giving glory to God. The angels serve two purposes in the Nativity of Christ. They give glory to God and announce the good news to all mankind.

The Holy Icon of the Nativity reminds one to praise and glorify the Birth of Christ. The celebration of Christmas each year serves to remind each and everyone of us that Christ came for you and me.

The background shows a very rugged terrain. This is not a true representation of the land in this area. Joseph could not find room in Bethlehem, so they went outside of Bethlehem to a cave. This rocky mountain formation only serves as a background for the event.

On the Sundays immediately before December 25, special commemorations emphasize the link between the Old Covenant and the New. On December 20 the Forefeast of the Nativity is commemorated, and the daily liturgical texts are directed toward the Feast itself. On Christmas Eve, services include the Great or Royal Hours, the Great Vespers, and the Liturgy of Saint Basil.

In the lower part of the icon are two more scenes. In the right hand corner are the two women Joseph brought to take care of the Christ child (6). They are bathing Him just as any baby is bathed. The humanity of Jesus is clearly shown in this setting. Opposite the bathing of Jesus scene sits a sad and worried Joseph (7). He is not part of the central group the Christ Child and the Theotokos. Joseph is not the natural father. Joseph is troubled and despondent. There is an old man talking to Joseph. The old man is Satan. Satan can appear in many forms. Here he is as an old man who is tempting Joseph and disturbing him. Satan is telling Joseph that virgin birth is impossible. He's telling Joseph that he's a fool if he believes this. This story comes to us from Holy Tradition. The sad Joseph shows us not only his personal predicament but the dilemma of all mankind the difficulty of accepting that which is "beyond words or reason." The tree, which is in the middle of the lower part of the icon, is a symbol of the Tree of Jesse. This tree refers to HYPERLINK: "http://bible.gospelcom.net/cgi-bin/bible?language=english&version=NKJV&passage=Isaiah%2 B11%3A1-2&x=0&y=0" \t "_blank" Isaiah 11:1-2, "But a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom. The spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him." King David was often mentioned as the son of Jesse and Jesus was from the House of David.

The Orthodox Celebration of the Feast of the Nativity As with Pascha, or Easter, the Feast of the Nativity begins with a period of preparation. It is proceeded by a fast corresponding to Lent and lasting for forty days. The fast begins on November 15.

On Christmas Day the service commemorates the birth of Christ in Bethlehem, the adoration of the Shepherds, and the arrival of the Wise Men with their gifts. The service held on this day is the Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom. The days following Christmas are associated with the Theotokos and Joseph. December 26 is the Synaxis of the Mother of God, and the first Sunday after the Feast commemorates “Joseph the Betrothed.” December 29 commemorates the Massacre of the Innocents, and January 1 the Circumcision of our Lord. The Nativity season concludes on December 31, but the spirit of the festival extends to the celebration of Theophany (Epiphany), the feast commemorating the Baptism of our Lord in the Jordan River. Hymns of the Feast Apolytikion: (Fourth Tone) Your birth, O Christ our God, dawned the light of knowledge upon the earth. For by Your birth those who adored stars, were taught by a star, to worship You, the Sun of Justice and to know You, Orient from on High. O Lord, glory to You. Kontakion: (Third Tone) Today, the Virgin bears Him who is transcendent,

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Community Corner and the earth presents the cave to Him who is beyond reach. Angels, along with shepherds glorify Him. The Magi make their way to Him by a star. For a new child has been born for us, the God before all ages.

2007 PARISH COUNCIL B. Ted Bozonelis, President

Twenty-two dedicated men and women serve Holy Trinity as volunteers and make it possible for the Church to function effectively on a parish level. They are our Parish Council and we offer them our heartfelt thanks for assuming the great responsibilities before God, our Orthodox Church, our Holy Archdiocese and you, our faithful parishioners. As your pastor, I would like to personally thank them for their dedication and, on behalf of our entire parish, express my gratitude to all of them. As 2007 comes to a close, we thank Ted Bozonelis for his fine leadership this past year as the Parish Council President. Holy Trinity continues to be an outstanding Christ-centered parish. Listed below is the Parish Council for 2007 that deserves our appreciation and thanks. May the Holy Trinity—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—bless you always. Rev. Fr. Peter Delvizis, Presiding Priest B. Theodore Bozonelis, President Peter T. Arbes, Vice President George Colonias, Secretary James C. Fountas, Treasurer Nicholas J. Bouras, Assistant Treasurer and Andrew Anastasiou; Thomas Castorina, Theodore Demetriou, Richard Frigerio, James P. Gianakis, Jo-Ann Jayson, Notis Kotsolios, Agapios Kyritsis, Robert V. LoAlbo, Peter S. Markos, Nikolaos Monoyios, Scott Pappas, Kassandra Romas, Elise Savnik, Nicholas Sofianopoulos, Bill Theofanous and George Youlios.

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS GIFTS At Christmas time, many of our parishioners desire to express their love for Christ on His birth by making

special gift to His Church. For this reason, we provide a list for your convenience. Please call the Church Office to find out what may still be available. Altar Fund; Incense ($50); Charcoal ($25); Pew Torch candles ($200); Daily Bible Guides ($200); Holy water bottles ($300); 1 large wreath for exterior of the church ($90); 3 medium wreaths for interior of church ($60 each); 5 small wreaths for exterior doors of the church ($40 each); Poinsettia plants to decorate Altar and Church (large and medium-sized plants ranging between $40 and $45 each). Thank you for your donations and support.

PHILOPTOCHOS

Mary Demiris, President We had a busy couple of months as you will note in the following. In the November Promise, I stated that we again had our annual sale of various items in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month. All proceeds from the sales were sent to the Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation. I am extremely pleased to announce that due to the hard work and great salesmanship of Anna Savva and her committee – Aggie Zourzoukis, Stella Polyviou, Dina Savva and Vicky Zourzoukis we raised $2,050.00. Thank you to everyone who supported this fund raiser through your purchases. And a big thank you to Anna and her committee who sat at the table each Sunday during the month of October. Great Job! On Sunday, November 25th, the Ladies Philoptochos in partnership with the Holy Trinity Youth and Dr. and Mrs. Nicholas Liakas hosted Father Michael Nasser, the Priest at St. Innocent’s Orphanage – Project Mexico in Tijuana, Mexico and Miguel Angel a graduate of the orphanage. Father Michael and Miguel participated in the liturgy and afterwards Father Michael gave wonderful, spiritual presentation on the mission work at Saint Innocent in the Bouras Center. A complimentary lunch was offered to thank our community for its support of Project Mexico. Everyone who attended thought this was truly an enlightening experience and the presentation was well received. We would like to thank Nick and Kathy Liakas for their support and

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Community Corner for sponsoring the lunch. We thank our Holy Trinity GOYA Advisors, Youth, the Youth parents and everyone who helped that day for their participation and contributions to this event. We also had representatives from our sister parishes who also expressed their appreciation for inviting them to join us to hear this presentation. I am pleased to announce that we had another successful Wine and Food Festival on Tuesday, November 6 which was held at the Marco Polo restaurant. We extend our sincere gratitude to Phyllis Verenes and Agapios Kyritsis who co-chaired this fund raiser with a special thanks to Peter Verenes who designed the beautiful, trendy flyer. We specifically would like to thank the entire Marco Polo family for hosting this wonderful event - they outdid themselves, if that is possible. The food and wine selections were outstanding and everyone who attended had a fabulous time. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to St. Basil’s Academy for the continued good work at this institution. On Saturday, December 1, we held our Annual Bloomingdales Fashion Show which was held in Bloomingdale’s at the Short Hills Mall. Again, this was a sold out event. I would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Chairpeople of the fund raiser: Marianne Savorgiannakis, Nina Anastasiou, Christina Colonias and Ellen Manos Athenson. These ladies did an outstanding job and everyone had a great time at the show and shopping afterwards. We thank everyone who supported this event and everyone who made the gift raffle donations. On Wednesday, December 5th we held our Annual Holiday Philoptochos General Meeting and Dinner. The dinner was catered by Five Star Catering, Garwood, NJ. We were entertained by the Chansonettes a women’s singing group from Westfield. We also had the opportunity to do a little Christmas shopping since we had ladies representing Silpada Silver Jewelry. We again collected various items for the Battered Women’s Shelter in Elizabeth. This was a fun evening and everyone had a great time.

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Community Corner UP COMING EVENTS HOLIDAY PASTRIES FOR SHUT-INS We will be baking and preparing holiday goodies for the shut-ins in our community. Avi Kiriakatis is the Chairperson for the activity. Please see Avi during Fellowship Hour to sign up. The pastries should be brought in on Sunday, Dec. 9th and dropped off in the kitchen. VASILOPITA LUNCHEON Our annual Vasilopita Luncheon will be held on Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008 in the Bouras Center. The luncheon will be catered by the Marco Polo Restaurant in Summit, NJ. The cost is $15 per adult and $5 per child 18 and under. FEBRUARY GENERAL MEETING Our next General Meeting will be on Wednesday, February 6, 2008 in Rooms 101-102. Our Guest Speaker will be Mr. Peter Goggi who is the President of a Lipton Tea Subsidiary. He will give us an interesting and entertaining program on the history and tasting of tea. Please save the date and join us for an enjoyable evening of tea tasting! We would like to thank everyone for all your support in 2007 and we wish everyone in our Holy Trinity Community a Blessed Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2008.

FIND A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS GIFT AT THE CHURCH BOOK STORE

all to light up their hearts by teaching them about the Light of Christ that He offers to children of all ages! Come to the Book Store: browse, and take your pick! There are Icons, Crosses, and religious CDs to inspire prayer; Bibles for young and old; and books on various aspects of our Greek Orthodox faith. …As you enter the Bouras Center for the Fellowship Hour most Sundays, look to the right for the Book Store. If you don’t see what you want, we can order it for you! Please support the Book Store: all profits are donated to the Church. In addition, we are looking for Book Store Stewards to act as cashiers, whenever it is convenient for them. If you are interested, please stop by our table any Sunday.

CHOIR

Kathy Athanasoulas, Director The New Jersey District of the Eastern Federation of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians will present their annual Christmas Carol Concert at Kimisis Tis Theotokos, Holmdel, NJ at 4:00 pm on Sunday, December 9, 2007. The Angel Choir and Byzan “teens” of Holy Trinity, along with the Youth Choir from St. George, Trenton, will be singing with the adult choirs. The director is Kathryn Athanasoulas and the organist is Hope Demity. A free-will donation will be collected. Come and hear these lovely carols.

Sandy Mouratoglou Oltmann, Dana Banu, and Andrea Blasi

Who among the family and friends of small children does not relish in the thought of seeing their eyes light up at the sight of toys, candies and other goodies on Christmas morning? They know that the carefree joys of childhood will too soon be replaced by the responsibilities of adulthood. And yet, isn’t there something more special than such gifts at Christmas? Rather than lighting up children’s eyes at the sight of such gifts, perhaps it would be the greatest gift of

Holy Trinity, Egg Harbor Twp.and their new community center where the annual conference of the Eastern Federation of Greek Orthodox Church Musicians was held Nov. 1-4

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Community Corner

Our Holy Trinity Choir members at the conference with the director Andriana Kolendrianos from Santa Barbara, CA.

Holy Trinity Choir members at EFGOCM Conference.

Tula Christopoulos (Chairman), Kathryn Athansoulas (president), Andriana Kolendrianos (director), Presvitera Voula Liacopulos (Chairman), Hope Demitry

Louis & Alix Martin receive 10-year Service Award.

Choir member Mary Vasilow receiving her certificate honoring her 50 years of service.

Former Holy Trinity psalti, Dr. Tom Papadimitriou and family who lectured at the conference.

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JOY/HOPE

Youth Corner

Kathy Maglaras, Yiana Leichtling, Sandy Boutsikaria, Coordinators We are happy to let our HTGOC family know that JOY/HOPE is back and in full swing. This is the ministry to children between the ages of 5 and 11 years of age. It is designed to promote bonding between the child and faith, promote Greek Orthodox Christianity and develop Greek Orthodox Fellowship. Our children will have fun through crafts and special events to promote fellowship and to build unity within our JOY/HOPE family. It is also a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends. We welcome all families to participate. Our first gathering was on November 8 at the Liberty Science Center and it was a big success! A total of 50 JOY/HOPE participants along with their parents enjoyed an exciting day at the reinvented LSC in Jersey City. We all enjoyed seeing exhibits, a 3-D movie and having lunch together. Many thanks to all the families for their overwhelming support of our first event!!! On Friday, December 14, 2007, we will be having a JOY/HOPE Christmas Gathering in the Bouras Center at 6pm. Father Peter will be joining us during our program, which will consist of a Christmas story from Father Peter, making a craft and watching a holiday movie. Pizza will be provided. Please sign-up at the Joy/Hope table during our Fellowship hour or e-mail us at HYPERLINK: "mailto:[email protected]" [email protected]. One of JOY/HOPE’s principles is for the participation of service; therefore, we will be having a fundraiser to benefit St. Basil Academy in New York. We will be selling beautiful poinsettias and grave blankets, which will be available in various sizes and colors. Pre-orders will be accepted until December 9th. More details will be available in the weekly bulletin and at the JOY/HOPE table during Fellowship Hour.

On Saturday, February 2, 2008, JOY/HOPE and the Greek School will be planning a combined trip to see the Greek Exhibit that is currently on display at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan in New York. This is an interactive exhibit that takes you through the world of ancient Greece. Mark your calendars! More detailed information to follow. This year there will be many special activities that go into making JOY/HOPE a great experience for our children. Parents are encouraged to attend and assist in JOY/HOPE. Please stop by our table during the fellowship hour or e-mail us any questions/suggestions at HYPERLINK: "mailto:[email protected]" [email protected].

GREEK SCHOOL PTO Nina Anastasiou, President

On Tuesday December 18th, the Greek School’s annual Christmas Concert will take place in the Bouras Center at 4:30 PM. Following the children’s performance the PTO will host a wonderful Christmas party with pizza and desserts for all to enjoy. Save the date: On February 2nd, the Greek School JOY and HOPE are planning a trip to the Children’s Museum of Manhattan. The exhibit is Gods, Myths and Mortals: Discover Ancient Greece. It will introduce the children (ages 6-12) to ancient Greece through original artifacts, replicas, and theatrical experiences, as well as hands-on interactive stations. We look forward to sharing this experience with all of you. Reservations will be taken during the month of December during fellowship hour in the Bouras Center. Reminder: School will be closed December 19 through January 6. Classes will resume January 8. The Greek School PTO wishes everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.

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Youth Corner

STARRY STARRY NIGHT By Lia Lewis

"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8:12) With swirls of color and points of light, I see hope in Van Gogh's masterpiece, Starry Starry Night. Our lives are full of hurry and worry and family woes that sometimes all we can cling to is hope. Hope that our lives will get better. Hope that our families will stay healthy and safe. Hope that we'll make it to the next day. Starry Starry Night is the hope of the new day— points of light in the sky that guide us during the good and the bad in our lives. In every direction that we turn, there is light. Light that shows us where we can seek solace and peace from the horrors of the world. However, at times, we only see what we want to see. We are too involved with our own lives that we forget that darkness also exists in the world—darkness that is poverty, war, famine, genocide, despair and hate. When we see outside of our own world and peer into the dark where those less fortunate are, we see what they see and try to help them find that hope which graces us. Because hope is universal, it belongs to us all. For wherever there is hope, there is love. Love, the never-ending constant of the universe, is the "light at the end of hope's tunnel." With this light, we can never get lost. Some are lost because of the hate and/or despair that is in the world. Some refuse to see the "light at the end of the tunnel" and live their days in the darkness—never living the joys of hope and love. They are forever living in that instant moment of false hope. They don't heed the lesson of the master who teaches us with his masterpiece. The master teaches us to hope and love in a world where there is at times only night. And with each brushstroke and with each swirl of color and point of light, we see the hope that is Starry Starry Night.

Lia Lewis is a graduate of Holy Cross Orthodox School of Theology. She lives, works and writes in New Jersey.

YOUTH CORNER

Vasilis Chantzis, Corresponding Secretary "Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which he hath given thee. Deuteronomy 16: 17 During this special time of year let us remember the spirit of Christmas and our ability to give from the heart. May we take this opportunity to thank all those who give to the youth: time, talent and support. RECENT HAPPENINGS: Fellowship The Mr. & Miss GOYA competition and dinner/ dance took place on Oct. 7th at the Pines Manor in Edison. 30 members of our Holy Trinity Family came to support this annual gala event. A wonderful night for everyone and our congratulations to Ted Bales and Jennifer Conti, our Holy Trinity representatives. The Bowling Tournament, took place on Nov. 3rd. A fun packed day, as usual, starting with the tournament and followed by the dinner/dance at the host church, Fairview. Youth Luncheon -thank you to all the youth, parents, friends, relatives, and the Holy Trinity Family for their time and support. Also, our deep appreciation to Dino Genakos for all his hard work in the kitchen. This one fund-raiser enables the youth to have the many programs and events all year long. On Dec. 2nd the youth came together for the Annual Christmas Party. Friends, food and fun for all. The donations collected at the door were sent to the Make A Wish Foundation for children. Outreach The Youth are pleased to announce that with the support of the congregation, we collected over 100 cell phones to donate to the program for soldiers.

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Youth Corner In an upcoming Promise, we will have the tally of the eyeglass collection, which took place during October and November.

Cooperative effort of the following churches: Flemington, Holmdel, Trenton, Union & Westfield

Athletics A group from our basketball team traveled to Bethesda, Maryland for the Bishop George Memorial Tournament on the weekend of Oct. 13th to 15th. The team comprised of youth members from Holy Trinity and Holmdel. Congratulations to the jr. boys basketball team for their award of a 3rd place trophy and kudos to the fine job of the sr. boys team. Our thanks to the participants, Coach Bales, Coach Grafas, and the parent chaperones too.

Fri night - making of the sandwiches – sign up required 12 – 18 yr olds

The regular season has come to a close with our basketball and volleyball teams having had games against Asbury Park, Holmdel, Piscataway, Trenton, Toms River, and Flemington. Our playoffs are scheduled for the new year. We began the season not knowing if we would have a jr. basketball team and saw a young group of boys come together to form a great team. We began the season knowing the senior girls returning to the volleyball team but were anxious to find new young members to join. We began the season knowing the sr. boys basketball team had strength and depth. So… as we look upon our record with pride, we congratulate the team members for their commitment and sportsmanship, applaud the parents for their support and thank the coaches for their time and effort with our teams. CONGRATULATIONS We would like to commend Eleni Sallas and Alexandra Tsakos for their success, as they both were awarded scholarships from the NJ state youth scholarship fund. UPCOMING EVENTS– mark your calendars and sign up with the advisors! Dec. 9th – youth meeting following Religious Education classes Dec. 14 & 15th – “Bridges” – state organized outreach for this organization which feeds the homeless.

Sat. delivery to shelter in Newark – sign up required 16 – 18 yr. olds. Dec. 27th – The Northern New Jersey Youth Commission Christmas Social, Toms River Church, $8.00 Jan 26th – Jr. boys basketball playoffs at Westfield 9:00 A.M. Sign ups for Sights and Sounds are not far off….what can you create during your Christmas break? The Youth would like to take this opportunity to wish the Holy Trinity Family a blessed Christmas and a joyous New Year.

TRINITY ORTHODOX TODDLERS SOCIAL Christina Zeniou Colonias

“I think, at a child’s birth, if a mother could ask a fairy godmother to endow it with the most useful gift, that gift would be curiosity.” Eleanor Roosevelt TOTS is a great place for children to explore and learn about God’s House and our faith in a very relaxed environment. This is a way to make new friends while having fun with crafts, snacks and some playtime. All toddlers, ages 18 months to 4 years old, are welcome to join with their moms, dads, grandparents or caregivers. We meet the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month at 10 AM. For more information and to join, please contact Joanne Paras at 908-322-3166 or Christina at 917-8255986. HAPPENINGS We kicked off the fall season of TOTS by making

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Youth Corner apple people and trees with colorful leaves. The TOTS really enjoyed dancing like leaves blowing in the wind and eating the apples! Fr. Peter greeted all the children and welcomed them back. We all visited church with Fr. Peter where we talked about how to make our cross and about Jesus Christ. Halloween was a treat for all who attended. The Tots dressed in their favorite costumes and we had a party. We made pumpkins sitting on a fence and built our own TOTS pumpkin patch with make believe dirt and real pumpkins. Each child got to take home their own pumpkin from the patch. Most of November was spent on preparing for Thanksgiving – making turkeys and talking about all that we should be thankful for in our lives. Please join us for our last meeting before the holidays– December 12th, which is our Christmas Party. This year we have a group of 14 children enrolled in TOTS. We welcome the new members to the group – Christina, Jaclyn, Loukas, Katerina, and Sofia. Don’t forget to view all the TOTS artwork being displayed in the Bouras Center. Can you find the Picasso?

18th ANNUAL ANGEL AND MITTEN TREES by Debbie Martin

The 18th annual Angel and Mitten Tree program is well underway for 2007. Both trees are located outside the Bouras Center. Each Sunday there will be parishioners available by the trees to assist with questions. Additional flyers will be available as well. Join us this year and experience the true meaning of Christmas through our special angel and mitten tree programs, which provide the happiness and excitement we all enjoy with our families to many children in need in the Union County area. Here is how the programs work:

THE ANGEL TREE PROGRAM Select one or more of our 275 “Bear” angel tags from our decorated Angel Tree. The tag will specify boy or girl, age, and the gift requested. Each tag identifies both a toy and clothing item. You may purchase either one or both items. Sometimes it is difficult to find the requested toy, feel free to substitute some other gift appropriate for that age and gender. Then attach the complete tag to the unwrapped gift and place the gift under our tree. Although many of us enjoy wrapping Christmas gifts, it is important for these gifts to remain unwrapped, so that the Salvation Army is better able to identify which children are to receive which gifts. However, you may place the gift in a holiday bag with a decorative bow, if you choose. The gifts are then picked up by the Salvation Army and distributed to the children, just in time for Christmas. THE MITTEN TREE PROGRAM The Mitten Tree is a program that supports the Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) based in Elizabeth. We decorate our Mitten Tree with new gloves, mittens, warm knit hats, or socks for families in need. All sizes and colors are acceptable. Please hang these items directly on our Mitten Tree. These items will be given to Union County families in need in time for Christmas. Both programs will be running through Sunday, December 9th, so if you haven’t had the opportunity to participate yet, it isn’t too late. Stop by our trees on Sunday and select a tag or two. Shop for a boy or shop for a girl. Help add some joy to the lives of families in need. You will feel the warmth in your heart, as you make others warm with your contributions and gifts. May we all have blessed holidays and thank you for your participation.

WITH GRATITUDE To The Entire Holy Trinity Family, Although this past year has been quite difficult and challenging for me and my family, nevertheless you have been there for us in almost every capacity. To

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Community Corner thank you all individually and properly would be a daunting task. I hope you will accept this note in its place. Let me start by expressing thanks to all my spiritual fathers who have led us in prayer, given constant encouragement, and provided unfaltering strength throughout this entire year: Father Peter, Father Chris, Father Alexander, Father Mark, Father Demetrius, and Father Eugene Pappas. I would also like to express my dearest appreciation to those of you who prayed (and still pray), who took time out to visit me at Overlook and at Kessler, who sent thoughtful cards and notes, who made inquiring phone calls, who gave lovely gifts, who made (and still make) delicious, home-cooked meals, and all those who express their love, support, and care in so many different ways. I have always known Holy Trinity to be a unique and exceptional community, but I never imagined the extent of love and encouragement that I have experienced. May God Bless You All. With Much Love and Thanks, Katherine Panagakos

HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH NEW MEMBERS FROM SEPTEMBER 2006 TO PRESENT Mr./Mrs. Ronald & Andrea Cerini (908) 889-5961 2240 Mountain Ave,Scotch Plains, NJ 07076-1366 Mr./Mrs. Tiberiu & Marcela Dragoiu-Luca (908) 722-1321 184 Finderne Ave, Bridgewater, NJ 08807-3038 Mr. William Gitoneas (908) 412-1696 1 Helen St, Warren, NJ 07059-5822 Mr./Mrs. Steven & Melissa Skunakis (908) 393-9045 4 Tiffin Pl, Bridgewater, NJ 08807-2540 Mr./Mrs. Oswaldo & Anthoula Quiceno (908) 883-0630 20 Willow Ave Apt 2, North Plainfield, NJ 07060

Mr./Mrs. George & Helen Psarianos (732) 855-7673 267 W Prospect Ave, Woodbridge, NJ 07095-3233 Mr./Mrs. Glenn & Elizabeth Brumbaugh (908) 791-0618 116 Farragut Rd, North Plainfield, NJ 07062-2321 Mr./Mrs. Nikolaos & Rhodamanthy Xristopoulos (732) 794-2834 696 Golden Ave, Secaucus, NJ 07094-3117 Mr./Mrs. Gilbert & Irene Quesada (732) 574-1798 11 Sheridan Dr, Colonia, NJ 07067-1220 Mr./Mrs. John & Sally Potamousis (908) 228-2480 330 Benson Pl, Westfield, NJ 07090-1302 Ms. Elaine Palmisano 20 E Lincoln Ave, Roselle Park, NJ 07204-1743 Mr./Mrs. Nicholas & Keri Connors 74 Green St, Stoneham, MA 02180-1335 Ms. Lindsay Speros (908) 419-9900 338 E 92nd St Apt 11, New York, NY 10128-5802 Mr. Nicholas Hantzios (908) 889-4541 2292 Stocker Lane, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076-2119 Mr. Peter Rentoulis (908) 654-8878 327 Longview Dr, Mountainside, NJ 07092-2039 Mr./Mrs. Tony & Patti Kavalieros 192 Coastal Oak Cir, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082-2703 Mr./Mrs. James & Jennie Sallas (973) 377-1653 21 Ridgedale Ave Apt 226, Florham Park, NJ 07932-2338

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Community Corner Ms. Anastasia Paranicas (908) 464-7148 23 Whitewood Dr, Summit, NJ 07901-4138

Ms. Paula Amore (908) 279-7069 81 Brook Dr, Watchung, NJ 07069-6401

Mr. Spiridon Koutsogiannis 76 Rolling Hill Dr, Millington, NJ 07946-1209

Mr. Dean Criares (908) 273-2735 30 Bellevue Ave, Summit, NJ 07901-2017

Mr. John Vasiliadis (908) 561-5147 201 Smith St, South Plainfield, NJ 07080-3137

Mr./Mrs. Rommel & Maria Pangan (732) 388-0102 154 N Grant Ave, Colonia, NJ 07067-2227

Mr./Mrs. Harry& Kristina Papadopoulos (908) 233-5214 752 Belvidere Ave, Westfield, NJ 07090-2347

Mr./Mrs. Nicholas & Lisa Frankos (973) 820-5627 450 Washington Ave, Belleville, NJ 07109-2688

Mr./Mrs. Michael & Diane Mantagas (732) 499-4463 145 Amherst Ave, Colonia, NJ 07067-2005

Mr. Ilias Kifnidis & Ms. Klio Vrontos (908) 277-0964 31 Montrose Ave, Summit, NJ 07901-1556

Mr./Mrs. Mark & Helen Bruno (973) 763-7752 27 Cypress St, Millburn, NJ 07041-1921

Ms. Stephanie Frankos (973) 325-2658 7 Highland Pl, West Orange, NJ 07052-4845

Mr./Mrs. Patrick & Carissa Cicalese Jr. (973) 887-0455 6 Heather Dr, East Hanover, NJ 07936-3203

Mr./Mrs. Michael & Christine Manousos (732) 815-9366 13 Wendell Pl, Clark, NJ 07066-2314 Mr./Mrs. Jeffrey & Helen Silverman (908) 561-3765 19 Clydesdale Rd, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076-2421 Mr. Stamatis Kolokythas 18 Meeker Ave, Cranford, NJ 07016-3129 Mr./Mrs. Andreas & Despina Lachanaris (973) 376-4797 78 Woodland Rd Apt 3, Short Hills, NJ 07078-2438 Mr./Mrs. Christopher & Nicole Boscia (908) 884-5730 2 Terry Ln, Clark, NJ 07066-1310 Mr./Mrs. Jason & Erin Frigerio (973) 769-4362 PO Box 185, Peapack, NJ 07977-0185

Mr./Mrs. Gregory & Kalliope Lordi 195 Miller Ave, Clark, NJ 07066-1522 Mr. Konstantine Lymperopoulos (732) 428-4567 20 Claremont Ave, Colonia, NJ 07067-2902 Ms. Evon Laskaris 295 South Ave Apt 9, Fanwood, NJ 07023-1375 Ms. Christina Hidalgo (732) 494-0724 2 Mulberry Ln, Metuchen, NJ 08840-1252 Ms. Eugenia Xarhoulakos 85 Brookwood Rd, Mercerville, NJ 08619-1461 Mr. Dimitrios Xarhoulakos (908) 499-5409 200 Springfield Ave Apt 5020 Springfield, NJ 07081-1443

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Community Corner SACRAMENTS AND RITES CHURCHINGS Sunday, November 11, Vincent Stavros, the son of Tara and Triston Glynos Sunday, November 18, Natalie Alexis, the daughter of Vanessa and Stefan Papoutsoglou and Michael Stefan, the son of Julia and Stefan Petses FUNERALS Thursday, November 15, Andreas Xeni+ Saturday, November 17, Elias “Lee” Stevens+ Saturday, November 24, John K. Antholis+ Monday, November 26, James N. Rentas+

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