February 2020Year 21, Issue #5The Cross+Roads

Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church | 60 Traverse Road | Newport News VA 23606

One only has to read the Epistles written bySaint Paul to understand what was occurringin the Churches at that particular time. Recon‐ciliation was needed as disunity was flourish‐ing throughout the Churches and as we see inthe Church of Corinth a disease of moral fail‐ure was causing an epidemic amongst thepeople. The sins of the people were flowingthroughout the streets as some Christians ex‐hibited immoral behavior. Spiritual disciplineneeded to be stressed not only in Corinth, butto the other Churches as well.In Saint Paul’s Second letter to the Corinthi‐

ans specifically Second Corinthians 5:16-17we hear the Apostle speak about the New Cre‐ation. For years we have heard advertisers re‐fer to products as being “new and improved”.One might question what was wrong with theproduct in the first place that it needed im‐provement. But nevertheless, the New Cre‐ation that Saint Paul is referring to is theSacrament of Holy Baptism which unites us toChrist. It is through our Baptism that we beginour ministry to Christ and serve Him and HisHoly Church.

So where are we now? As Baptized andChrismated Orthodox Christians the opportu‐nity for ministry is before us. As Saint Paulsays in Second Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore ifanyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; oldthings have passed away; behold all thingshave become new”. As the followers of Christ,we must do what needs to be done and notmiss the opportunities for ministry and pass upthe chances to benefit our Church.A New year brings new expectations. We

cannot be a Church that is set in her ways andnot see the need in going to the next step.Ask yourself this question, “If Saint Paul wereto write to the people of Saints Constantineand Helen in Newport News what would hesay?” Would we want to hear his perspectiveon our Church?Our Lord wants us to be a living sacrifice.

What He requires of us is the giving of ourstrengths that exist in our minds and bodiesand exhibit these strengths to better mankind.

Stewardship - Mother Mary

† From Father GeorgeSaint Paul’s Letter to Newport News

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

February Sundays,Acolytes, Readers 2-3

Registry /Announcements 4

Attendance,Refreshments, andKoliva

4

Church, Club, andCommunity News 4-5

Recently @ SCH 6-7

VCIC HumanitarianAward to FatherGeorge

8

Three HeirarchsCelebration 8

Wreath & PoinsettiaGift Recognition 9

Women’s Retreat /OCF Retreat 9

Parish Council Minutes 10-11

Church Calendar 11No greater love

exists on this earth norin heaven than that of amother for her child. "Amother is the morningand evening star oflife." Her love isunconditional andnever ends until theday that she is laid toher rest. She providescomfort andnourishment. Her openarms provide a safehaven for a weary

child. Oh, how we long for the days when wewere children and the answer to all our prayersand problems rest in that one whispered word,"MOM." A mother is the child's greatest advocateand defender, and suffers with the child throughevery physical pain or disappointment.So it was with the Virgin Mother and her Holy

Child. At the foot of the crucifix, the VirginMother suffered her own Passion. Prostrate withgrief, she felt every lash of the whip, every pierceof the thorn, every bone crushing strike of thenail. As a mother, she suffered, estimably, asmuch as did her Son, The Savior. What worsepain can be inflicted upon a mother than to lose achild?

Christianity acknowledges the Mother and theVirgin Birth, but within this broad spectrum ofworship, the Eastern Orthodox Church elevatesher, and rightfully so. She is the "Theotokos," the"God-Bringer." At Saints Constantine and Helen,as in other Orthodox churches, we conductworship services to her and beseech her tointervene with her Son on our behalf. Herdistinction has even poured out of churches andspilled into popular music. In song, the Beatlesaptly described the value that we have placed onthe Virgin; "When I find myself in times of trouble,Mother Mary comes to me, speaking words ofwisdom....."While she is now in the company of the Saints

and the Holiest of Holies, I suspect that in herday and in her time, she made no such allusions,and considered herself just a Mom who loved herchild, no different than a Mom of today. In herhumanity it is easy for us to elevate her as a rolemodel. More importantly, when we venerate theHoly Mother in prayer, not only do we partake ofthe Holy Family as Orthodox Christians, but wealso pay respects to our own mothers and thoseothers who have earned the title of "MOM" fortruly they are the "morning and evening stars oflife." Amen!Offered by Nick VrettosChairman, Stewardship Committee

NOTICEParish Assembly scheduled forFebruary 16, 2020, followingthe Divine Liturgy.

AGENDACall to OrderOpening PrayerElection of ChairmanAdoption of AgendaMinutes from 10/27/2019Priest’s ReportTreasurer’s ReportReview of 2020 Budget

Committee ReportsStewardship MinistryFestival - Spring / FallYouth MinistryAudit Committee Report

Unfinished BusinessMaintenance / Repair List

New BusinessGeneral Comments byMembers

Closing PrayerAdjournment

The Cross+Roads Page 2

Glory Be To GodSaints Constantine &HelenGreek Orthodox Church60 Traverse RoadNewport News VA 23606www.schgochurch.va.goarch.orgPhone (757) 596-6151Fax (757) 596-2967Email Addresses:priest@office@parishcouncil@youthdirector@webmaster@schgochurch.va.goarch.orgOffice HoursMonday Through Friday8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.PriestFather George ChiorosWork 596-6152Home 597-7786Mobile 288-4487Email: frgchioros@aol.comDeaconDeacon Noah HendricksMobile 757-218-2053Email:dn.noah.hendricks@gmail.comParish CouncilBob Demson, PresidentGreg Bicouvaris, VicePresidentMike Kokorelis II, TreasurerNick Vrettos, Assoc. TreasurerKent Paumier, SecretaryElias DoulgerakisTom GrepiotisGary NichollsKurt Smith

ChantersTim SofisHarry FotiouJohn WilliamsBrian FinkGeorge PetrakosDemetri KonstantinouChurch SecretaryRebecca PietronutoArchdiocese on the Webwww.goarch.org

Apolytikion for SaintsConstantine & Helen, Equal-to-the Apostles in the Plagal of theFourth ToneHaving beheld the image of

Thy Cross in Heaven, and likePaul, having received the callnot from men, Thine apostleamong kings entrusted thecommonwealth to Thy hand, OLord. Keep us always in peace,by the intercessions of theTheotokos, O only Friend ofman.Τοῦ Σταυροῦ σου τὸν τύπον

ἐν οὐρανῷ θεασάμενος, καὶὡς ὁ Παῦλος τὴν κλήσιν οὐκἐξ ἀνθρώπων δεξάμενος, ὁ ἐνβασιλεύσιν, Ἀπόστολός σουΚύριε, Βασιλεύουσαν πόλιν τὴχειρί σου παρέθετο ἣνπερίσωζε διὰ παντὸς ἐνεἰρήνῃ, πρεσβείαις τῆςΘεοτόκου, μόνε Φιλάνθρωπε.

FEBRUARY 2HYMNS OF THE DAYResurrectional Apolytikion

in the Plagal Fourth ModeFrom on high didst Thou

descend, O CompassionateOne; to burial of three days hastThou submitted that Thoumightest free us from ourpassions. O our Life andResurrection, Lord, glory be toThee.Ἐξ ὕψους κατῆλθες ὁ

εὔσπλαγχνος, ταφὴνκαταδέξω τριήμερον, ἵναἡμᾶς ἐλευθερώσῃς τῶνπαθῶν. Ἡ ζωὴ καὶ ἡ

Ἀνάστασις ἡμῶν, Κύριε δόξασοι.Apolytikion for Presentation

of Our Lord in the First Mode

Rejoice, thou who art full ofgrace, O Virgin Theotokos, forfrom thee hath risen the Sun ofRighteousness, Christ our God,enlightening those in darkness.Rejoice, thou also, O righteousElder, as thou receivest in thinearms the Redeemer of oursouls, Who also granteth untous the Resurrection.Χαῖρε κεχαριτωμένη

Θεοτόκε Παρθένε, ἐκ σοῦγὰρ ἀνέτειλεν ὁ Ἥλιος τῆςδικαιοσύνης, Χριστὸς ὁ Θεὸςἡμῶν, φωτίζων τοὺς ἐνσκότει. Εὐφραίνου καὶ σὺΠρεσβύτα δίκαιε, δεξάμενοςἐν ἀγκάλαις τὸν ἐλευθερωτὴντῶν ψυχῶν ἡμῶν,

FEBRUARY SUNDAYS @ SC&H GOC

PhiloptochosStavroula Gailey, PresidentReligious EducationViola Allen, Frances TsimplekisCo-DirectorsGreek SchoolPaula Tofalli, Katerina SanbarChoir DirectorsJackie Anas, Alexa Garrison, Gary Nicholls,Joanna VallasYouth MinistryMariam Canavos, Youth DirectorStephanie Peri and Dr. Bobby Garofalis,AdvisorsAcolytesDeacon Noah, DirectorJOY/HOPEMariam Canavos, DirectorVicky Smith, AdvisorBookstoreElizabeth Puckett

Weekly BulletinRebecca PietronutoCross+RoadsNick VlattasGreek Orthodox Youth AssociationJames St. Martin, PresidentAdvisors: Stephanie Peri, Viola Allen,Dr. Bobby GarofalisYoung Adult League (YAL)Sydney Galoozis, PresidentGolden HeartsZoe Marcopoulos, PresidentOrder of AHEPAGary Nicholls, PresidentDaughters of PenelopeDr. Helen Dennie, PresidentHellenic Woman’s Penelope SocietyStephanie Kailos (February)Hellenic Youth DancersDr. Bobby Garofalis, Director

Parish Ministries and Organizations

FEBRUARY 9Team AYianni TsimplekisChristopher MyersMichael DaoudGabriel DaoudChristopher MichaValandi TsimplekisFEBRUARY 16Team BJames St. MartinCris CampbellSoterios TofalliKyprianos TofalliKonstantin GarofalisCarlos BritosFEBRUARY 2 & 23Team CChristos KonstantinouDean PeriNolan KrisikLandon KrisikWill EstesAlexandros BaxevanisManuel Garcia

Please contact Deacon Noah ifyou are interested in readingthe Epistle during the SundayLiturgy.dn.noah.hendricks@gmail.com

FEBRUARY (English, Greek)02: Michael Landon, Stavroula

Gailey09: (GOYA), Harry Fotiou16: Howard Mandeville,

Stavroula Gailey23: Joe Saur, Harry Fotiou

ACOLYTES

EPISTLE READERS

Page 3

χαριζόμενος ἡμῖν καὶ τὴνἈνάστασιν.Seasonal Kontakion in the

First ModeYour birth sanctified a Virgin's

womb and properly blessed thehands of Symeon. Having nowcome and saved us O Christ ourGod, give peace to Yourcommonwealth in troubled timesand strengthen those inauthority, whom You love, asonly the loving One.Ὁ μήτραν παρθενικὴν

ἁγιάσας τῶ τόκω σου, καὶχείρας τοῦ Συμεὼνεὐλογήσας ὡς ἔπρεπε,προφθάσας καὶ νὺν ἔσωσαςἡμᾶς Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός. Ἀλλ'εἰρήνευσον ἐν πολέμοις τὸπολίτευμα, καὶ κραταίωσονΒασιλεῖς οὓς ἠγάπησας, ὁμόνος φιλάνθρωπος.EPISTLE READINGHebrews 7:7-17GOSPEL READINGLuke 2:22-40SAINTS AND FEASTSCOMMEMORATEDAgathadoros the Martyr of

CappadociaThe Presentation of Our Lord

and Savior in the TempleJordan the New MartyrGabriel the New Martyr of

ConstantinopleWISDOM OF THEFATHERSThe tribes of Judah and Levi

were united by a fusion of theirlines of descent, and that is whyMatthew assigns Christ's familyto the tribe of Judah. And theApostle says, 'for our Lord hassprung out of Judah' (Heb.7:14). St. Ambrose of Milan,Seven Exegetical Works, 4thCentury

FEBRUARY 9HYMNS OF THE DAYResurrectional Apolytikion

in the First ModeWhen the stone had been

sealed by the Jews and the sol‐diers were guarding Thine im‐maculate Body, Thou didst ariseon the third day, O Saviour,granting life unto the world.Wherefore, the powers of theHeavens cried out to Thee, OLifegiver: Glory to Thy Resur‐rection, O Christ. Glory to ThyKingdom. Glory to Thy dispen‐sation, O only Friend of man.Τοῦ λίθου σφραγισθέντος

ὑπὸ τῶν Ἰουδαίων, καὶστρατιωτῶν φυλασσόντων τὸἄχραντόν σου σῶμα, ἀνέστηςτριήμερος Σωτήρ,δωρούμενος τῷ κόσμῳ τὴνζωήν. Διὰ τοῦτο αἱ Δυνάμειςτῶν οὐρανῶν ἐβόων σοιΖωοδότα· Δόξα τῇ ἀναστάσεισου Χριστέ, δόξα τῇ Βασιλείᾳσου, δόξα τῇ οἰκονομίᾳ σου,μόνε Φιλάνθρωπε.

Apolytikion for Apodosis ofthe Presentation in the FirstModeRejoice, thou who art full of

grace, O Virgin Theotokos, forfrom thee hath risen the Sun ofRighteousness, Christ our God,enlightening those in darkness.Rejoice, thou also, O righteousElder, as thou receivest in thinearms the Redeemer of oursouls, Who also granteth untous the Resurrection.Χαῖρε κεχαριτωμένη

Θεοτόκε Παρθένε, ἐκ σοῦγὰρ ἀνέτειλεν ὁ Ἥλιος τῆςδικαιοσύνης, Χριστὸς ὁ Θεὸςἡμῶν, φωτίζων τοὺς ἐνσκότει. Εὐφραίνου καὶ σὺΠρεσβύτα δίκαιε, δεξάμενοςἐν ἀγκάλαις τὸνἐλευθερωτὴν τῶν ψυχῶνἡμῶν, χαριζόμενος ἡμῖν καὶτὴν Ἀνάστασιν.Seasonal Kontakion in the

First ModeYour birth sanctified a Virgin's

womb and properly blessed thehands of Symeon. Having nowcome and saved us O Christ ourGod, give peace to Your com‐monwealth in troubled times andstrengthen those in authority,whom You love, as only the lov‐ing One.Ὁ μήτραν παρθενικὴν

ἁγιάσας τῶ τόκω σου, καὶχείρας τοῦ Συμεὼνεὐλογήσας ὡς ἔπρεπε,προφθάσας καὶ νὺν ἔσωσαςἡμᾶς Χριστὲ ὁ Θεός. Ἀλλ'εἰρήνευσον ἐν πολέμοις τὸπολίτευμα, καὶ κραταίωσονΒασιλεῖς οὓς ἠγάπησας, ὁμόνος φιλάνθρωπος.EPISTLE READING2 Timothy 3:10-15GOSPEL READINGLuke 18:10-14SAINTS AND FEASTSCOMMEMORATEDSunday of the Publican and

Pharisee: Triodion Begins To‐dayLeavetaking of the Presenta‐

tion of Our Lord and Savior inthe TempleNicephoros the Martyr of Anti‐

ochMarkellos, Philagrios, &

Pankratios the HieromartyrsTeilo, Bishop of LlandaffWISDOM OF THEFATHERSIt is possible for those who

have come back again after re‐pentance to shine with muchlustre, and oftentimes morethan those who have neverfallen at all, I have demon‐strated from the divine writings.Thus at least both the publicansand the harlots inherit the king‐dom of Heaven, thus many ofthe last are placed before thefirst. St. John Chrysostom, An

exhortaion to Theodore after hisfall, 4th Century

FEBRUARY 16HYMNS OF THE DAYResurrectional Apolytikion

in the Second ModeWhen Thou didst descend

unto death, O Life Immortal,then didst Thou slay Hades withthe lightning of Thy Divinity.And when Thou didst also raisethe dead out of the nethermostdepths, all the powers in theHeavens cried out: O Life-giver,Christ our God, glory be toThee.Ὅτε κατῆλθες πρὸς τὸν

θάνατον, ἡ Ζωὴ ἡ ἀθάνατος,τότε τὸν ᾅδην ἐνέκρωσας τῇἀστραπῇ τῆς Θεότητος, ὅτεδὲ καὶ τοὺς τεθνεῶτας ἐκτῶν καταχθονίων ἀνέστησας,πᾶσαι αἱ Δυνάμεις τῶνἐπουρανίωνἐκραύγαζον·Ζωοδότα Χριστὲὁ Θεὸς ἡμῶν δόξα σοι.Seasonal Kontakion in the

Third ModeO Father, foolishly I ran away

from Your glory, and in sin,squandered the riches You gaveme. Wherefore, I cry out to Youwith the voice of the Prodigal, "Ihave sinned before You Com‐passionate Father. Receive mein repentance and take me asone of Your hired servants."Τῆς πατρῴας, δόξης σου,

ἀποσκιρτήσας ἀφρόνως, ἐνκακοῖς ἐσκόρπισα, ὅν μοιπαρέδωκας πλοῦτον· ὅθεν σοιτὴν τοῦ Ἀσώτου, φωνὴνκραυγάζω· Ἥμαρτον ἐνώπιόνσου Πάτερ οἰκτίρμον, δέξαιμε μετανοοῦντα, καὶ ποίησόνμε, ὡς ἕνα τῶν μισθίων σου.SAINTS AND FEASTSCOMMEMORATEDSunday of the Prodigal SonPamphilus the Martyr & his

CompanionsRomanos the YoungerFlavianos, Patriarch of Con‐

stantinopleHermogenes (Germogen),

Patriarch of MoscowEPISTLE READING1 Corinthians 6:12-20GOSPEL READINGLuke 15:11-32

FEBRUARY 23HYMNS OF THE DAYResurrectional Apolytikion

in the Third ModeLet the Heavens rejoice; let

earthly things be glad; for theLord hath wrought might withHis arm, He hath trampled upondeath by death. The first-bornof the dead hath He become.From the belly of Hades hath Hedelivered us, and hath grantedgreat mercy to the world.

Εὐφραινέσθω τὰ οὐράνια,ἀγαλλιάσθω τὰ ἐπίγεια, ὅτιἐποίησε κράτος, ἐν βραχίονιαὐτοῦ, ὁ Κύριος, ἐπάτησε τῷθανάτῳ τὸν θάνατον,πρωτότοκος τῶν νεκρῶνἐγένετο, ἐκ κοιλίας ᾅδουἐρρύσατο ἡμᾶς, καὶ παρέσχετῷ κόσμῳ τὸ μέγα ἔλεος.Seasonal Kontakion in the

First ModeO God, when You come upon

the earth in glory, the wholeworld will tremble. A river of firewill bring all before Your Judg‐ment Seat and the books will beopened, and everything in se‐cret will become public. At thattime, deliver me from the firewhich never dies, and enableme to stand by Your right hand,O Judge most just.Ὅταν ἔλθῃς ὁ Θεός, ἐπὶ

γῆς μετὰ δόξης, καὶ τρέμωσιτὰ σύμπαντα, ποταμὸς δὲ τοῦπυρὸς πρὸ τοῦ Βήματος ἕλκῃ,καὶ βίβλοι ἀνοίγωνται, καὶ τὰκρυπτὰ δημοσιεύωνται, τότεῥῦσαί με, ἐκ τοῦ πυρὸς τοῦἀσβέστου, καὶ ἀξίωσον, ἐκδεξιῶν σου μὲ στῆναι, Κριτὰδικαιότατε.SAINTS AND FEASTSCOMMEMORATEDDamian the New Martyr of

Mount AthosJudgment Sunday(Meatfare Sunday)

Boswell, Abbot of MelroseAbbeyProterios, Archbishop of

AlexandriaGorgonia the Righteous, sis‐

ter of Gregory the TheologianEPISTLE READING1 Corinthians 8:8-13; 9:1-2GOSPEL READINGMatthew 25:31-46

The Cross+Roads Page 4

Church Registry / Announcements ATTENDANCE

REFRESHMENTS

KOLIVA

Cross+Roads

November 24 215

December 1 128

December 8 171

December 15 193

December 22 154

December 29 148

January 5 154

January 12 207

January 19 136

January 26 NA

YTD 2018 Ave 145

YTD 2019 Ave 155

JAN 2019 Ave 147

JAN 2020 Ave 166

Church Email ListSubscribe to the church emaillist for monthly links to theCross+Roads and importantchurch announcements at:www.schgochurch.va.goarch.org

Cross+Roads DeadlinePlease email information nolater than the 20th day of themonth to Nick Vlattas

nvlattas@gmail.com

If you would like to purchaseKoliva for memorials, you maycontact:Mary Graham andChristine Fulmore 595-7871Helen Nicholls 817-8215Athena Savvas 589-1484

BIRTHS;Our sincere congratulations and best wishes to

Alec &Jessica Davidson on the birth of theirson, Alec William Davidson, December28,2019.NA SAS ZIZI!!!!!!

ILLAND NEEDIING OURPRAYERS:We wish a speedy recovery to our friends and

fellow parishioners who have been illand/or hospitalized recently: Marina

Becouvarakis, Bob Demson, MihalisDoulgerakis, Helen Kanelos, Voula Panagsand Nia Theodorogiannis.PERASTIKA SAS !!!!!!!!!!!

DEATHS:Our sincere condolences to the family of Chris

Christopher who died December 1 and whosefuneral service was held in our Church,December 6.MAY HIS MEMORY BE ETERNAL!!!!!!

THANK YOU:I’m deeply honored and humbled to be one of

the recipients of the Charita Stavrou Steward ofthe Year Award - Thank You! It has been a bless‐ing and a privilege to serve Our Lord and commu‐nity with all of you. Sincerely, Trish Demson

PayPal DONATIONS ACCEPTEDYou can donate to the Church using PayPal on

our website at: http://schgochurch.va.goarch.org/ministries/stewardship/

Headline

2020 Parish CouncilOath of Office onJanuary 12. Front Row(L-R): Nick Vrettos,Associate Treasurer,Father George, GaryNicholls. Back Row (L-R): Mike Kokorelis II,Treasurer, EliasDoulgerakis, KentPaumier, Secretary,Bob Demson,President, TomGrepiotis, GregBicouvaris, VicePresident, Kurt Smith.

STEWARDSHIPThe Stewardship Ministry Committee

thanks the 80 plus families/individuals whohave turned in their Stewardship Commit‐ment Tri-fold for 2020. The tri-folds are avail‐able in the church pews, the narthex, thechurch office and also on our church web‐site. We encourage those parishioners whohave not yet done so to submit their 2020commitment as soon as they are able. Also,we had made a suggestion that on the backof the form, before submitting, that you printin bold letters "I BELIEVE" as a further affir‐mation of faith. We mentioned that sometime ago and are encouraged because sev‐eral of our Parishioners have done just that.Our continuing Stewardship theme will AL‐WAYS be "I BELIEVE." THANK YOU foryour gifts of time, talent and treasure to ourchurch and the faithful in Christ.

Our sincere thanks to allthose parishioners whoserved as hosts for themonths of December andJanuary.

The hosts for the month ofFebruary are:

Feb. 2: M/M F. Peri, Ms. M.Theophilos, Ms. E. PuckettFeb. 9: M/M D. Petrakos,M/M Mel Polizos, M/M G.PolizosFeb. 16: M/M A. Polyzos,M/M George Polyzos, M/M K.PolyzosFeb. 23: Ms. Stavroula Gailey

Page 5

Church, Club, and Community News

PHILOPTOCHOS:The new 2-year term

(2019-2021) of Philoptochoshas begun with the Societyhard at work continuing itsdedication to realizing andexpanding its charitableefforts.We once again thank and

congratulate our hard-workingPhiloptochos member,Trish Demson for

spearheading our Church'sparticipation in the PORTproject.Trish, we want you to

know that your hard work andyour dedication to this Churchand this Greek OrthodoxCommunity is very muchappreciated. You're a greatasset to both the Church, ourCommunity and toPhiloptochos, as well.On January 10,

Philoptochos hosted itsannual VasilopitaLuncheon. Under theleadership of our mostcapable president, StavroulaGailey, a most delicious mealwas served to all thoseattending. The proceeds ofthis event will go to supportthe work of of Saint Basil'sAcademy in Garrison, NY.Please, remember that our

AOK is an on-going project .Although our membershiphas increased under theleadership of our chairperson,Dianne Sun, we are stillinviting anyone in ourCommunity interested inparticipating in this worthwhile

project to join us and becomepart of the team that visitspatients receivingchemotherapy infusions atVirginia Oncology everyMonday of every month. Ifinterested, please call DianneSun - H868-8411, C8701262and let her know you want tohelp.Our obligations to the

National for the month ofFebruary are: A contributionto Autism Assistance Fundwhich hightens awareness ofautism with assistance adsupport, and a contribution toSaint Photios Shrine whichprovides assistance topreserve the Saint PhotiosNational Shrine.The February meeting of

Philoptochos will beMonday, February 1, startingwith refreshments at 6:30 pm.Hosting this meeting areAthena Markos and KathyMatthews. The Marchmeeting will be held Monday,March 1, starting at 6:30 pm.Hosting the meeting will be

Sharon Otero andStephanie Peri.To all our members:

Please, do attend thePhiloptochos meetings.Your participation in ourdeliberations during thesemeetings is very muchneeded.

AHEPAAnnual Superbowl Party

will be held on Sunday, Feb‐ruary 2, 2020 in the AHEPAFamily Center beginning at5:30 p.m. The cost will be$5.00 per person to includeplenty of good food, refresh‐ments, a “BIG screen” televi‐sion, and great fellowship(free). I hope to see youthere!

AHEPA FAMILYSCHOLARSHIPSThe AHEPA/Daughters of

Penelope Family Scholarshipand District 3 Scholarship ap‐plications are available in theAHEPA Family Center or theChurch Office. Reminder forthe AHEPA Family Scholar‐ships the parent must be cur‐rent with their 2020 Dues. Allscholarship applications mustbe postmarked by April 15,2020. For any questions,please call Gary Nicholls at

(757) 810-6493 or HelenDennie at (757) 890-2985.

HELLENIC WOMAN’SPENELOPE SOCIETYThe February meeting of

the Hellenic Woman’s Pene‐lope Society (HWPS) will beheld on Thursday, February6th at 6:00 pm at the HellenicCenter. Stephanie Kailos willpreside and Helen Dennieand Zoe Marcopoulos willserve as hostesses. It is im‐perative that members attendthis meeting since we will bediscussing the final prepara‐tions for the Dinner DanceFundraiser.The 20th Annual Dinner

Dance “Theater” will be heldon Saturday, February 29th atthe Sacalis Hall. GLENBOSWICK’S – MAGIC MO‐MENTS seven piece combowith a vocalist will provide theentertainment for the evening.Specialists in the Big Bandsounds of the 40’s throughthe present, the combo per‐forms the exciting memorablesound classics of CountBasie, Duke Ellington, GlennMiller, Tommy Dorsey, ArtieShaw, Benny Goodman, ,Doris Day, Frank Sinatra,Dean Martin, RosemaryClooney, Linda Ronstadt,Harry Connick, Jr, and manymore. Dick Crist was thefounding leader for 27 yearsuntil his passing in 2004.Bassist Glen Boswick be‐came leader and continuestoday the exciting dance tra‐dition of upbeat swing, siz‐zling Latins, romantic ballads,and waltzes. The featuredvocalist sings the songbookof American popular stan‐dards, the best of Broadway,and the hits of today.Greek hors d’oeuvres and

wine will be served from 6:00pm to 6:30 pm, followed bydinner at 6:30 pm and enter‐tainment dancing at 8:00 pm.The price of the ticket is$35.00 per person. Checksshould be made payable toHWPS and mailed to MarikaAnthony at 51 Settlers Road,Newport News, VA 23606.Reservations will be acceptedthrough Wednesday, Febru‐ary 19th. Please call 757-596-6909 to make reserva‐tions.Tables will be reserved for

guests who have made their

paid reservations by the duedate, and will be assigned inthe order by which they werereceived. All others will be di‐rected to find seats in openseating areas.Our Christmas get-together

and 90th Anniversary Celebra‐tion on December 5th at An‐gelo’s Restaurant was a joyfuland moving event. The an‐gelic voices of the HamptonRoads Academy’s choral en‐semble left us spirituallymoved. We express our ap‐preciation to this wonderfulgroup and to their outstandingdirector, Mrs. Robin Stein‐berger.We express our love and

sincere and heartfelt sympa‐thy to Voula Vretakis andfamily for the loss of theirbeloved husband, father andgrand-father, Nick. May hismemory be eternal.

MISSIONSDepartment of Missionsand EvangelismSummer DomesticMission TripsThe Department of Mis‐

sions and Evangelism (DME)is now offering domestic mis‐sion trips for the summer of2020. For the program'slaunch, the Department haspartnered with Fr. Paul Aber‐nathy and his team at TheNeighborhood ResilienceProject (formerly known asFOCUS Pittsburgh). Learnmore about what Fr. Paul isdoing by watching his TEDxTalk in Pittsburgh .We have two sessions

scheduled for July. Each ses‐sion will provide an opportu‐nity for training and service.Volunteers will return homewith some ideas of how theymight be catalysts for changein their own communities.Each "trip" is 6 days, with 2days of travel, and 4 work‐days, beginning with arrivalon Wednesday and endingwith departure the followingTuesday. The cost for food,lodging (at Duquesne Univer‐sity), and Catalyst training isonly $400 per person! Forother details, including dates,fund-raising ideas, and regis‐tration, go to www.james218‐.com .If you have any questions,

contact Dn. Adam LowellRoberts at 615-971-0000.

ACTS OF KINDNESSWHY NOT SHOW ALITTLE EXTRA LOVETHIS MONTH?Our Acts of Kindness

(AOK) team has noticedan increase in the numberof chemotherapy patientswe’re serving each week.You can help us bydonating potato chips,cookies, cash or grocerystore gift cards to supportthis growing ministrywhich is sponsored byPhiloptochos. Donationsmay be madeanonymously. For moreinformation, pleasecontact Dianne Sun atdsungreek@hotmail.com

The Cross+Roads Page 6

Stewardship Sunday, November 24th: Our Parishrecognized our “Charita Stavrou” Stewards of the Yearnominated for the award by their fellow parishioners. TheStewards receiving this year’s awards were Trish Demson,Howard Mandeville, Helen Nicholls and John Williams. Theyeach have given selflessly of their time and talents to ourchurch and community. We were pleased to honor and thankthem. They were all presented with an icon of SaintsConstantine and Helen by Father George. Well done, goodand faithful servants.

Pictured above (L-R): Howard Mandeville, Elaine Jansen(Stewardship Committee) Trish Demson, Deacon Noah, FatherGeorge, Helen Nicholls, Frank Peri (Parish Council President)and John Williams.

Pictured to left: Sunday School and Choir present Christmasprogram to Parish on December 15, 2019.

Philoptochos Vasilopita Luncheon to benefit Saint Basil Academy January 12:

Opposite Page (L-R, T-B): Vasilopita bread baked by Kiki Canavos, Greek OrthodoxArchdiocese of America: Maria Stefanis; Metropolis of New Jersey: Tessie Baker; Hellenic College/ Holy Cross: Konstantine Pietronuto; Saint Basil Academy: Harry Theodore; Saints Constantineand Helen Greek Orthodox Church: Greg Bicouvaris; Philoptochos Society: Stavroula Gailey;Golden Hearts: Zoe Marcopoulos; GOYA: Sophia Britos; Sunday School: Nick Vrettos; DeaconNoah Hendricks; Greek School: Paula Tofalli; Choir: Jackie Anas, Gary Nicholls, Joanna Vallas;Chanters: Tim Sofis, Harry Fotiou; Altar Boys: Deacon Noah Hendricks, Soterios Tofalli,Kyprianos Tofalli; Dance Groups: Kia Roumeliotis; Helenic Woman’s Penelope Society: SharonOtero; AHEPA: Gary Nicholls; Daughters of Penelope: Joanna Vallas.This Page (L-R, T-B): Bookstore: Martha Sawtschenko; Cross+Roads: Nick Vlattas; Spring

Festival: Helen Nicholls; Fall Festival: Kurt Smith; Church Office: Rebecca Pietronuto, ChristineMignogna.

Recently @ Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church

Greek Orthodox Youth Association (GOYA): Richmond Bas‐ketball Tournament on January 11-12.Great job to our Boys B team!

Page 7

The Virginia Center For In‐clusive Communities(VCIC) will award its Hu‐manitarian Awards at the52nd HumanitarianAwards Dinner on Thursday,February 20, 2020.The galaevent will be at the MarriottHotel at NN City Center. Fr.George is one of the six re‐cipients of this award. If anyparishioners are interestedin attending the gala func‐tion on the above date,please contact Chris Zam‐bas at (757) 303-4196.

Rev. ProtopresbyterGeorge ChiorosBIOGRAPHYOver the past thirty years

Rev. George Chioros, has ac‐tively served as a parish priest,board member on many commu‐nity boards, and active participantin many local charities. His com‐mitment to people and ministryhas been dedicated. FatherGeorge was born and raised inthe south suburbs of Chicago, Illi‐nois graduating Amos AlonzoStagg High School in 1982. Hewas called to ministry at an earlyage and attended Hellenic Col‐lege in Brookline, Massachusettsreceiving his Bachelors of Arts inReligious Studies in 1986. Hecontinued his education at HolyCross Greek Orthodox School ofTheology in Brookline, Massa‐chusetts where he received aMasters of Divinity with Distinc‐tion in 1989. Following graduationhe married Flora Despotides ofBethesda, Maryland and was as‐signed to Holy Trinity Greek Or‐thodox Church in Chicago, Illinoiswhere he served as the AssociatePastor from August, 1989 to Feb‐ruary, 1992. He was ordained tothe Deaconate on October 1,1989 and to the Priesthood onOctober 22, 1989. During his min‐istry at the Holy Trinity Church he

was responsible for all of theyouth programs including the 600plus students of the parochialschool. While at the parish he be‐gan many youth programs includ‐ing the Young Adult League forOrthodox youth ages 18 to 25.

In February of 1992 he wasassigned as the pastor of the St.Theodore Greek OrthodoxChurch in Lanham, Maryland. Atthe time the parish was meetingin a small home on a four acreproperty with the goal of buildinga church and community center.During Father George’s tenure atSt. Theodore, he built the com‐munity center and church edificenegotiating with and enlisting thehelp of local government officials,businesses and parishioners. Healso bridged the gap with localmulti-denominational clergy build‐ing bridges within the diversePrince Georges County Marylandcommunity. He joined in fellow‐ship with other area pan-Ortho‐dox clergy as well as helping onthe Greater Washington DC Min‐isters association. After complet‐ing the building project andestablishing the ministries of St.Theodore, he was asked to moveto Roanoke Virginia in April of1996.

He was assigned as the pas‐tor of the Holy Trinity Greek Or‐thodox Church in Roanoke,Virginia and served the faithful inthe area from April 1996 to Au‐gust 1999. The parish ofRoanoke served Orthodox Chris‐tians along the Interstate-81 corri‐dor, north from Staunton andLexington, south to Christians‐burg/Blacksburg and Pulaski andwest to Bluefield, West Virginia.He spent time driving many milesto various locations to offer thesacraments to those who livedtoo far to drive to the Roanokechurch on any given Sunday. Healso met with and provided thesacrament of the Eucharist forstudents attending Virginia Techon a monthly basis. During histime in Roanoke, Father Georgebecame an active leader in thegreater community serving on nu‐merous boards. He especially en‐joyed his time on the RoanokeValley Minister’s Associationwhere he served two terms aspresident elect. Regrettably, ashe was to take on the presidencyof the association he was trans‐ferred to Newport News, Virginia.

Father George was assignedto the Saints Constantine and He‐len Greek Orthodox Church inAugust of 1999 where he contin‐ues to diligently serve the large

Orthodox Christian community onthe Peninsula. For the pasttwenty years while serving thefaithful of his parish, he has con‐tinuously striven to lead both Or‐thodox organizations as well ascommunity groups. He has partic‐ipated in national and local chari‐ties by giving of his time as wellas physical donations of blood“the gift of life” every 60 days tothe local Red Cross blood bank.He continues his efforts to bridgethe gap between the OrthodoxChristian faithful and those ofother faiths as a guest columnistin the Daily Press and by servingon local, regional and nationalcommittees. There are numerousboards that he serves or has par‐ticipated in during his time in theHampton Roads area. They areas follows:

• Orthodox Metropolis Councilof New Jersey 2006-2009

• President of Hellenic Col‐lege/Holy Cross School ofTheology Alumni Board2008-2012

• Representative of the Arch‐diocesan Council 2008-2012

• Treasurer of the Metropolisof New Jersey SysdesmosBoard 2000 to present

• Chaplain at the HamptonVeterans Hospital 2000 topresent

• Virginia Council of ChurchesCoordinating Cabinet 2004to present

• Past Chair of the PastoralAdvisory Committee forRiverside Hospital

• Past Board President of thePeninsula Pastoral Counsel‐ing Center 2010-2015

• Chair of board developmentfor Peninsula Pastoral PCC2017 to present

• Treasurer of the HamptonRoads Orthodox ClergyBrotherhood 2008 to present

• Virginia Center for InclusiveCommunities

Father George to Receive VCIC Humanitarian Award

The Cross+Roads Page 8

Page 9

Wreaths Given by:Mike & Nia KokorelisPoinsettias Given by:George & Jackie Anas: In

Memory of Theodore & HelenAnas and Chester & AliceReynoldsNick & Dottie Andre: In

Memory of Varlas and AndreFamiliesBarney Barnes & Georgia

Mamangakis: In Memory ofSheila W. Barnes and Rev.George J. MamangakisLeroy & Joanna Bossetti: In

Memory of Olga, Elie and LouieJohn Campbell: In Memory

of Phoebe CampbellRev. George, Presvytera

Flora, Dean Chioros, FatherNick: In Memory of PresvyteraMoscha Despotides andJohnDespotidesBob & Trish Demson: In

Memory of Angeline BeaudryKurt & Paula Detweiler: In

Memory of Our Loved OnesFaye Evans: In Memory of

Dorothy & Steve AndrewsJohn & Barbara France: In

Memory of Paul E. France,Gary L. France and John N.Nemechek & Maria M.Nemechek

Stavroula Garofalis: InMemory of Gus GarofalisAlexa & Alvin Garrison: In

Memory of AndronicosKantsios, Ronald Long, Doris &Linwood Garrison and Andra &Alex FragakisA. Jack Georgalas: In

Memory of Mary GeorgalasBill & Christine Georges: In

Honor of Zena Mageras andDino KoumbasAngela Gionis: In Honor of

A. Gionis and St. MartinFamiliesThe Grepiotis Family: Tom,

Libby, Thomas, Matthew, Max‐ine, Joe: In Memory of Arthur D.Grepiotis and John A. GrepiotisAnatol Grynewtsch: In

Memory of Zinaida GrynewtschRoger, Dina, Kristina

Headrick: In Thanksgiving forHealth and Many BlessingsRev. Dn. Noah & Ruth

Hendricks: In Thanksgiving forOur Church FamilyChris, Elaine & Theresa

Jansen: In Memory of PhoebusKarageorgis & Sophie KiklisGonny M. Kaoudis: In

Thanksgiving for KaoudisFamily

John & Rebecca Karatsikis:In Memory of Gus & AngieKaratsikisGreg & Zoe Lumpkin: In

Memory of Dorothy PlethosGroceAnna & Zena Mageras: In

Memory of Sam Mageras,Grandparents and StacyKoumbas, In Thanksgiving forAnna and Zena MagerasJohn & Debbie Malliarakis:

In Honor of Nick & Lauren’sEngagement, In Memory ofPapou MalliarakisSylvia Marcin: In Memory of

John, Thomas and ChristineAthena T. Markos: In

Memory of Pete NicholasMarkosJimmy & Argie MaurakisJoanie Michalos: In Memory

of Alex J. MichalosJohn Michos Family: In

Memory of Antigoni Marcou andAristides MichosCamelia Pana: In Memory of

Radu SturzuPeri Family: In Memory of

George TheophilosFrances & Mel Polizos: In

Memory of Mr. VretakisRussian School of Hampton

Roads

Jane & Joe Saur: InThanksgiving for Our FamilyEleni Siokis: In Memory of

Soterios Siokis and StevenGouletasAthena Savvas: In Honor of

Ted & Les Savvas, In Memoryof Dr. Ted Savvas, InThanksgiving for Grand & GreatGrandsDianne & Peter Sun: In

Memory of Chris & Cleo ZervosTheodorogiannis Family: In

Memory of Konstantinos & ZoeTheodorogiannis andAthanasios & AnastasiaKokinosTofalli FamilyStavroula Valentin: In

Memory of Joseph Valentin andNick VretakisJoanna Vallas: In Memory of

Mr. & Mrs.Theo Vallas and Ms.Maria MitchumIn Thanksgiving for The

Vaughn & Pergjoka FamiliesBarb & Nick Vlattas: In

Memory of Wilbur, Pat, Bob,Emmanuel and AnneJames E. A. Woodbury: In

Memory of Victoria A. Babenko-Woodbury

Christmas Wreath and Poinsettia Gift Recognition

The Cross+Roads Page 10

NOVEMBER 18I: Call to Order & Opening

Prayer:Present: Father George Chioros,

Frank Peri, John Dermanis, ZenaMageras, Kent Paumier, RobertDemson, Greg Bicouvaris, EliasDoulgerakis, AnastasiaTheodorogiannis, Bobby Garofalis,Michael Kokorelis, Gary NichollsGuest: Kurt Smith and Nick

VrettosThe meeting convened at 18:30

with an opening prayer by FatherGeorge. The following items werediscussed:II: Minutes:Mageras made motion to approve

the meeting minutes of the 21 Oct 19meeting; seconded by Garofalis,passed unanimously.III: Correspondence:Thank You Letter from Virginia

Peninsula Foodbank, DTD 22 Oct19, for our food donation of 74pounds of food.

Thank You Letter from VirginiaPeninsula Foodbank, DTD 29 Oct19, for our food donation of 105pounds of food.

Letter from GDC Financial GroupINC, DTD November 2019, ClergyCompensation Plan Guideline for2020.

Letter from the Greek OrthodoxMetropolis of New Jersey FinanceCommittee, DTD 7 Nov 19, NationalMinistries Allocations (Fairshare)increase of about 2% to $74,644.00per year / 6,220.00 per month for2020.IV: Treasurer’s Report:Bob Demson and Alvin Garrison

attached with minutesReviewed Budget VS Actual and

Statement of Financial Position forNovember. Discussion on the NewYear’s Eve Party expenses beforethe New Year.V: Visitor’s Comments: NoneVI: Committee Reports:Youth MinistryMariam CanavosOCF/YAL Retreat in Williamsburg

on Nov 1st & 2nd – We met theyoung adults at WilliamsburgBrewery Friday night & Saturday atSt. Demetrios with Father George fora discussion and then had lunch attheir Greek festival. There wereabout 12 people there, includingSamson, Myself, Tim and AnnaSofis.

GOYA Night at WilliamsburgGreek festival November 1st – Wemet at the festival at 6 pm for goodfood, fellowship and Greek dancing.There were about 7 teens there.

JOY/HOPE Fall Festival – Wehad about 40 kids, pizza, fall craftsfor them to paint, orthodox coloringpages. Thank you to the parentswho donated snacks, Bobby andAleksandra Garofalis for donatingthe bounce houses.

Norfolk Basketball TournamentNovember 9th & 10th – Our boys Bteam did an excellent job and won2nd place in their division. We arevery proud of them and they arelooking forward to the Richmondtournament January 11th-12th. Wehave officially gotten the save thedate.

November 13th, I had a meetingin Williamsburg with Fr. Milton,William & Mary OCF students, andfellow youth directors to talk aboutthe OCF Retreat February 14th-16th.

GOYA Lock-in December 7th &8th – Christmas town, uglyChristmas sweaters, toys for tots,secret Santa, Paraklesis service anddiscussion. A flyer has been madeand sent out to Richmond, VirginiaBeach, and Norfolk.

Christmas Play Rehearsal andStocking Stuffing is December 14th

Christmas Play December 15thHouse CommitteeBarbara FranceBible breakfast had almost

double attendance last weekbecause their regular speakerreturned. October Shipyardbreakfast was about average.

We had 1 outside rental since lastmeeting. A memorial for one of theboys from Tabb High School whodied in a car crash. I have beenworking with Sysco to get quotes onbuying/leasing a dishwasher. Ourrepresentative is on medical leaveand has not been able to come tothe hall to be able to provide aquote. At this point we have onepurchase quote for $27,000.

Upcoming Rentals/ImportantDates:

November 23rd – DOP Craft FairNovember 30th - QuinceaneraDecember 7th/8th – GOYA Lock

InDecember 11th thru 18th – PORTDecember 21st – Front Room

Rental, Christmas PartyDecember 31st – New Year’s Eve

PartyOpen weekends thru end of 2019

– Dec 28Open weekends Jan thru July

2020 – Jan 4, Jan 25, Feb 1, July 18As available weekends are few, I

ask again that all clubs andorganizations let me know as soonas possible when they would liketheir events scheduled as far into thefuture as possible so that I can getthem on the calendar.Festival CommitteeJohn DermanisThis was our most successful Fall

Festival to date. We madeapproximately $80K in profit for theevent. Final numbers by the end ofNovember with a wrap up meeting tofollow. Need to determine ourdonation to St. Basils for theircommunity’s help.Maintenance CommitteeDoulgerakisCompleted ramp to the back-left

side door. Roof over thecompressors complete. Scuppers onthe building have been cleaned. perireminded Elias to use the tax-exempt forms for purchases.Stewardship MinistryNick Vrettos24 Nov – Stewardship Sunday –

Charita Stavrou Steward of the Yearfor 2019 will be awarded (Icons ofSts, Constantine & Helen) to fourparishioners by Father George andElaine Jensen.

Vrettos – How do we make thingsbetter, recover folks who left andways to grow the Church.

Stewardship as of 11/19/19Fund 1 $152,698Fund 2 $44,123Funds 1 & 2 $196,821Fund 3 $-8,913Fundraiser $258,735Total $446,643Families Pledged 181StewardshipCommitment $177,802AverageFamily Pledged $982.00VII: Priest’s ReportFather George70TH Anniversary – Thanked

everyone for the Icon, the committeefor the luncheon and group picture.

24 Nov – Stewardship Sunday,we will be awarding Stewards of theYear and collecting and blessing the2020 Stewardship Forms.

1 Dec – Nick Vretakis & MariaMitchum Memorials

8 Dec – Second collection tobenefit St. Demetrios GreekOrthodox Church, Perth Amboy, NJ,Housing for Active Adults.

11-18 Dec – Port Project at theHellenic Center. We will be providingthe dinner on Sunday the 15TH.

15 Dec – Sunday SchoolChristmas Pageant

Tree donation – Two GinkgoAutumn Gold trees to replace theJapanese maple trees.

Donation – 100 shares of UnionPacific Stock from Mr. JamesWoodbury

Chris Jensen gave Father a copyof “Guide for Developing High-Quality Emergency Operations Plansfor Houses of Worship”VIII: Unfinished Business:Maintenance ItemsKitchen – dishwasher see House

ReportLighting in Sanctuary – in

progress, noticeably brighter in theNave. Teddy has relocated &rewired the light switches to beoperated from the Vestry

NEW – Mold remediation inMariam’s office. Kokorelis working

Armed encounter training – to bescheduled

Office/Accounting Staff – Mariamassisting in the office on Mondays

19 Nov – Budget meetingscheduledIX: New Business:New Year’s Eve Party – Band is

set finalizing the table arrangements.Working on food and manpower forthe events.X: Adjournment:Fr. George offered the closing

prayer at 19:40. Next PC meeting willbe 16 Dec 19 at 18:30 in the library.XI: Certification:Respectfully SubmittedKent M. Paumier, Secretary

DECEMBER 16I: Call to Order & Opening

Prayer:Present: Father George Chioros,

Frank Peri, John Dermanis, ZenaMageras, Kent Paumier, RobertDemson, Greg Bicouvaris, AnastasiaTheodorogiannis, Bobby Garofalis,Michael Kokorelis, Gary NichollsAbsent: Elias DoulgerakisGuest: Nick Vrettos

The meeting convened at 18:30with an opening prayer by FatherGeorge. The following items werediscussed:II: Minutes:Mageras made motion to approve

the meeting minutes of the 18 Nov19 meeting; seconded by Bicouvaris,passed unanimously.III: Correspondence:Letter from Greek Orthodox

Archdiocese of America, DTD 19Nov 19, Elpidophoros Archbishop ofAmerica, Important UpdateRegarding Youth Safety Rollout.Providing requirements, policy andestimated costs from Praesidium forscreening costs.

Thank You Letter from VirginiaPeninsula Foodbank, DTD 26 Nov19, for our food donation of 87pounds of food.

Thank You Letter from VirginiaPeninsula Foodbank, DTD 9 Dec 19,T. Hansbrough, CommunityEngagement Coordinator, for our ourcontributions to the PeninsulaFoodbank.

Letter from Mayo InsuranceAgency INC., DTD 11 Dec 19, M.Lee, Agency Representative, 2020Insurance Increase Workman’sComp and General Liabilities Audit.

Thank You Letter from NationalForum of Greek Orthodox Musicians,DTD November 2019, for our$400.00 donation.

Greek Orthodox Metropolis ofNew Jersey, His EminenceEvangelos, DTD 13 Dec 19, ThankYou for the parishes who are currentfor the parish total commitment andrequiring those parishes behind onpayments to have them submitted by25 Dec 19.IV: Treasurer’s Report:Bob Demson attached with

minutesMaintenance/Reserve account

has been opened at TowneBank andfunds transferred from Wells Fargoaccount which was closed. Waitingfor one item to close out the FallFestival.V: Visitor’s Comments: NoneVI: Committee Reports:Youth MinistryMariam CanavosDecember 7th-8th GOYA lock-in

hosted by Newport News withRichmond, Norfolk, VB. We had 20kids attend We went to ColonialWilliamsburg for ice skating. Cameback to the church for Secret Santa,Hot chocolate, pizza, andbasketball.

December 14th, we had ourChristmas program practice andstuffed stockings for Salvation Armyand kids decorated angel ornaments

December 15, we had ourChristmas program

January 11-12 is the Richmondtournament. Bringing a boys b team

Background checks: Everyoneworking with the youth have nowreceived their log in informationwhere they can access their youthtraining program and the backgroundcheck.House CommitteeBarbara FranceBible breakfast has continued its

improvement as Bill Warrwick has

Parish Council Minutes: November 18, 2019, and December 16, 2019

Page 11

2 SundayPresentation of our Lord8:45 am Orthros10:00 am Divine Liturgy40 Day Blessing:6:00 pm Ahepa Super BowlParty3 Monday6:30 pm Philoptochos4 Tuesday4:00 pm / 8:00 pm Greek School5 Wednesday6:00 pm Paraclesis6:00 pm – 8:00 pm GoyaBasketball7:00 pm Adult Education7:15 pm Choir6 Thursday6:00 pm HWPS8 Saturday3:00 pm Wedding9 SundaySunday of the Publican andPhariseeTriodion Begins8:45 am Orthros10:00 am Divine Liturgy1 Year Memorial JamesKoumbas12:00 pm AHEPA/DOP10 MondayMetropolis Clergy Retreat11 TuesdayMetropolis Clergy Retreat4:00 pm / 8:00 pm Greek School12 Wednesday6:00 pm Paraclesis6:00 pm – 8:00 pm GoyaBasketball7:00 pm Adult Education7:15 pm Choir14 FridayOCF Retreat in Williamsburg15 SaturdayOCF Retreat in Williamsburg

16 SundaySunday of the Prodigal SonSpring General AssemblyOCF Retreat in Williamsburg8:45 am Orthros10:00 am Divine Liturgy17 Monday6:30 pm Parish Council18 Tuesday4:00 pm / 8:00 pm GreekSchool19 Wednesday6:00 pm Paraclesis6:00 pm – 8:00 pm GoyaBasketball7:00 pm Adult Education7:15 pm Choir22 SaturdaySaturday of Souls9:00 am Orthros10:00 am Divine Liturgy3:30 Wedding23 SundayJudgement Sunday(Meatfare)8:45 am Orthros10:00 am Divine Liturgy1 Year Memorial AngieKaratsikis60 Year Memorial ConstantineKaratsikis10 Year Memorial PlatonGailey25 Tuesday4:00 pm / 8:00 pm GreekSchool26 Wednesday6:00 pm Paraclesis6:00 pm – 8:00 pm GoyaBasketball7:00 pm Adult Education7:15 pm Choir29 SaturdaySaturday of Souls9:00 am Orthros10:00 am Divine Liturgy6:00 pm HWPS Dinner Dance

been leading the group. Shipyardbreakfast was slightly above averagewith new attendees each month.

3 rentals since last meeting. TheDOP Craft Fair, a Quinceneara anda memorial for a Tabb High Schoolboy who died in an auto accident.No issues with any of the rentals, allwent well.

France had a meeting with thenew people who are in charge ofSteak & Burger. They have decidedto go in a different direction and toget back to their roots. They arealso looking to expand this event,turning into their signature event anddo not feel our facility will be largeenough. It has nothing to do with us,we didn't do anything wrong. Wehave been wonderful to work withand they'll miss us.

Buying/leasing dishwasher: Atthis point we have one writtenpurchase quote for $27,000. Franceis working with EcoLab on a leaseprice written quote.

Norfolk Coffee & Tea will bebringing us a machine like onebefore that was attached to awaterline on January 2, 2020. Thankyou to Zena Mageras and ChristineMignona who also called them andrequested this be done.

Changing ceiling tiles – PaulaDetweiler had brought it to myattention numerous times that thetiles in the upstairs hall, classroomsand dance room need to bereplaced. Is there a time scheduledfor that to be done?

Upcoming Rentals/ImportantDates:

December 21st – Front RoomRental, Christmas Party

December 31st – New Year’s EveParty

January 11th – Front RoomRental, Child's Bday party

January 12th – VasilopitaLuncheon

February 8 thru July 11th – Allweekends booked

July 18 thru end of 2020 – 13weekends available.

Festival CommitteeJohn DermanisThere is one outstanding item to

finish closeout of the Fall Festival.Stewardship MinistryNick VrettosNational Conference on Missions

& Evangelism is being held Feb. 3-5,2020 in Columbus, OH.

Working on updating the ChurchDirectory

Millennials leaving the church andnot returning. How may will be herein 10 years? We need to grow thechurch.VII: Priest’s ReportFather GeorgeThanked the outgoing council

members for their service andwelcomed in the incoming councilmembers

PORT Project is this week.Highest to date with 66 peoplestaying. We cooked the dinner lastnight and breakfast this morning.Trish Demson is stepping down andwe will need a new coordinator forthis project

Father went over the Christmas &New Years’ service schedule

21 Nov – PC election results sentto Metropolis Evangelos forratification

22 & 29 Dec – Second trays forAlbanian earthquake victims

Christmas Cards were mailed and2020 church calendars should behere next week

31 Dec – St. Basils Church inHampton will speak at the GreatVespers Service

The Ginkgo Autumn Gold treeshave been planted in the front of thechurch

Nick Stratis donated American,Greek & Byzantine flags

12 Jan 2020 – 2020 ParishCouncil will be sworn in after theliturgy followed by PhiloptochosVasilopita Luncheon to benefit ST.Basils Academy in the HellenicCenter

14 Jan 2020 – Father will give theopening prayer for Newport NewsCity Council MeetingVIII: Unfinished Business:Maintenance ItemsMold remediation – Youth

Directors Office. Kokorelis receivedair test results of 4500 parts/million.Believe the ceiling tiles are thesource. Kokorelis/Paumier Action –remove ceiling tiles inspect ceilingfor water/moisture inclusion.Budget Committee Meeting –

Budget developed ask Chalkias toattend next PC meeting to reviewArmed Encounter Training –

TBDIX: New Business:PayPal Report – Frank Peri

reported the transaction fees areabout 3% were absorbed by thechurch

New Year’s Eve – 31 Dec:Tickets available online or seeGarofalis, Dermanis orTheodorogiannis. Food has beenordered.

Basketball Goals – BobbyGarofalis presented cataloginformation for new portablebasketball goals from Bison Sportsto replace the old ones for about$8,500.00 per goal. Discussed theage, condition and lack of repairparts availability for the hydraulicpumps and components on the oldgoals (circa 1980 something). Bobbyand Sandra Garofalis will donate onegoal to the church and the churchwill purchase the second goal.

Garofalis made the motion –Bobby and Sandra Garofalis willdonate one basketball goal to thechurch for $8,500.00 and the churchto purchase the second goal;seconded by Theodorogiannis,passed unanimously.

Dermanis – Father George isreceiving a Humanitarian Award fromthe Virginia Center for InclusiveCommunities on 20 Feb 2020 at theawards ceremony at the NewportNews Marriott at City Center.

Dermanis made the motion forthe parish to purchase up to (4)tickets at $175.00 ($700.00 total) forthe Parish Council President, hisspouse, Deacon Noah and Ruth torepresent our community at theevent; seconded by Mageras,passed unanimously.X: Adjournment:Fr. George offered the closing

prayer at 19:55. Next PC meeting willbe 20 Jan 2020 at 18:30.XI: Certification:Respectfully SubmittedKent M. Paumier, Secretary

Non-Profit Org.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPermit No. 50Newport News

Virginia

Saints Constantine and HelenGreek Orthodox Church60 Traverse RoadNewport News VA 23606

Return Address Requested

Come Worship the Glory of GodSunday Services8:45 a.m. Matins10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy

Religious EducationFollowing Holy Communion, Sep-May

Christian FellowshipFollowing Divine Liturgy in Hellenic Center

Mission StatementThe mission of Saints onstantine & HelenGreek Orthodox Church in Newport News,Virginia is to keep, practice, and proclaim theOrthodox Christian Faith. The work andministry of our Parish will include proclaimingthe Gospel, sanctifying the faithful throughGod's grace in worship, the Divine Liturgyand the Sacraments, and enhancing theirspiritual life. We will fulfill the greatcommission of our Lord and Savior JesusChrist by inviting others into the Churchthrough Baptism and/or Chrismation,educating them in the Orthodox Faith throughthe establishment of programs, schools andphilanthropic activities, and implementingChristian ministries.

www.schgochurch.va.goarch.org

Phone: (757) 596-6151Fax: (757) 596-2967

DINNER DANCE

THE HELLENIC WOMAN’S PENELOPE SOCIETY

Presents the

GLEN BOSWICK’S MAGIC MOMENTS BAND

Saturday, February 29, 2020 Hellenic Community Center 60 Traverse Road, Newport News, VA 23606

Greek Hors d’oeuvres & Wine – 6:00-6:30 p.m. Dinner – 6:30 p.m. Curtain – 8:00 p.m.

For Reservations Please Call: 757-596-6909

$35 per person

~OVER~

______________________________________________________________________ To: Our Dinner Patrons From: The Hellenic Woman’s Penelope Society (HWPS) Re: Dinner/Dance 2020 _____________________________________________________________ The 20th Annual Dinner Dance sponsored by the Hellenic Woman’s Penelope Society, will be held on Saturday, February 29, 2020 at the Hellenic Community Center, 60 Traverse Road, Newport News, VA 23606. This year’s live entertainment will be provided (upon request) by Glen Boswick’s Magic Moments Seven Piece Combo, along with a featured vocalist. Specialists in the Big Band sounds of the 40’s through the present, the combo performs the exciting memorable sound classics of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, Doris Day, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Rosemary Clooney, Linda Ronstadt, Harry Connick, Jr., and many more. Dick Crist was founding leader for 27 years until his passing in 2004. Bassist Glen Boswick became the leader and continues today the exciting dance tradition of upbeat swing, sizzling Latins, romantic ballads, and waltzes. The featured vocalist sings the songbook of American popular standards, the best of Broadway, and the hits of today. The dinner menu will consist of:

Green Garden Salad Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast

Orzo a la Greque Fresh Roasted Vegetables

Homemade Bread with Butter Coffee or Iced Tea

Dessert – Ravani (a delicious syrupy after-dinner Greek dessert)

Greek hors d’oeuvres and wine at 6:00 p.m. will be followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. and live entertainment at 8:00 p.m. During intermission, koulourakia (butter cookies) will be served with coffee. The price of the tickets is $35 per person. Checks should be made payable to HWPS and mailed to Marika Anthony, 51 Settlers Road, Newport News, VA 23606. Reservations will be accepted through Wednesday, February 19th. For reservations, please call (757) 596-6909. Please note: Tables will be reserved for guests who have made their paid reservations by the due date, and will be assigned in the order by which they were received. All others will be directed to find seats in open seating areas.

The HellenicWoman’s PenelopeSociety (HWPS), thefirst Hellenic woman’sorganization on theVirginia Peninsula, wasfounded on November17, 1929 by Mrs. HelenCritzos, Mrs. AnnaKumas, Mrs. OlgaOrphanidys, and Mrs.Mary Rentzos. Theneed for promoting loveand solidarity amongthe members of thethen unorganizedGreek Orthodox

community, and the preservation of their Hellenic heritage,was foremost in the minds of these four visionary women.

The Society became the backbone of the communityand initiated a multitude of programs.

◆ Promoted various civic, educational, cultural, andhumanitarian projects, and also acted as thewomen’s liaison with the Greek OrthodoxArchdiocese of North and South America

◆ Instrumental in arranging Archbishop Athenagoras’(later Patriarch) visit to Newport News in 1934

◆ Assisted in the establishment of the first afternoonGreek school and made contributions of $500.00 tothe Hellenic Educational Committee on a regularbasis

◆ Raised funds and occasionally brought the priestfrom the Norfolk Church to Newport News tocelebrate the Divine Liturgy at St. Paul’s EpiscopalChurch

◆ Sponsored cultural programs to enrich the youth◆ Provided immense moral and financial support in the

construction and decoration of our first church edifice,such as the sponsoring of fund-raisers, donatingthe pews and the organ, funding the décor of thestage in the church hall and the completeremodeling of the kitchen. In addition, the Societyassisted financially toward the completion of threeGreek School/Sunday School rooms that were built inthe church attic

◆ During World War II, the members answered the callto action and worked diligently for the American RedCross and the American Greek War ReliefAssociation, collecting more than 25,000 pieces ofclothing for which the Society was awarded theCertificate for Meritorious Service.

In 1956, the Society held a reception at the WarwickHotel and the young adult daughters of members wereinvited to join. The response was overwhelming, and anew generation of members came on board. In 1969, anew constitution was written, and the mission of theSociety was expanded to encompass projects of civic andeducational nature beyond the confines of the Helleniccommunity. Among the multitude of projects initiated since1969 are:

◆ The Gregory Makris Scholarship – the firstscholarship to be established in the Orthodoxcommunity (To this day, the Society has awarded 73merit scholarships to undergraduate and graduatestudents, with the latest scholarship being the AnnaKumas Memorial Scholarship)

◆ Sponsoring a child from the Virginia School of theDeaf and Blind

◆ Participating annually in the Literacy Council’sInternational Dinner

◆ Sponsoring of Lois Gibbs - activist, author, andfounder of the Citizens Clearinghouse of HazardousWaste - during Celebrating Women’s Week on theVirginia Peninsula

◆ Assisting in furnishing the Shelter for BatteredWomen in Hampton

◆ Participating actively in the Peninsula NeedleworkGuild

◆ Donating food to Hampton Drug Abuse Center◆ Publishing three editions of the cookbooks, Our

Greek Kitchen and Culinary Gifts from the Greeks◆ Sponsoring a number of dinner theaters, 12 Noel

Balls, two Mardi Gras Balls, and two DebutanteBalls, benefit of the Building Fund of the HellenicCenter

◆ Contributing the organ in the new church◆ Contributing more than $75,000 to the Building Fund

of the Hellenic Center◆ Contracting and financing the décor of the Sacalis

Hall◆ Establishing the original Senior Citizens Club◆ Establishing the Hellenic Library◆ Sponsoring a displaced child from Cyprus through

project CARESS

From 1992 to 1997, the Society’s main ongoing projectwas the sponsorship of the Annual Fund Raiser Dinnerfor the Living Interfaith Network (LINK), therebyearning the distinction of being LINK’S largest singlecontributor. LINK is a network of over 130 congregationsin the Greater Peninsula area who work together to reachout to people in need and help them to become self-sufficient. One of LINK’S main projects is the Home forthe Homeless, which our church has been supportingsince 1999.

HISTORY OF THE HELLENIC WOMAN’S PENELOPE SOCIETY90 Years of Dedicated Service to Our Orthodox Community

and the Community at-Large

In 1999, the Society revived its long tradition of dinnertheaters and presented the Poquoson Island Players inMoon over Buffalo. Since then, the Society hassponsored 19 very successful and profitable dinnertheaters, which the greater Newport News communityvery faithfully and enthusiastically supports eachyear.

In 2001, the Anna Kumas Memorial MeritScholarship was established by the family of Mrs.Kumas, and the Society was kindly asked to administer it.Since then, 19 highly academic college students havebeen the recipients, nine of them from our Orthodoxcommunity.

In 2003 and 2013, we published the revised editions ofour cookbook, Culinary Gifts from the Greeks, whichhave been extremely well-received by the community.The proceeds from the cookbook, two annual bake sales,and the dinner theater constitute the main sources of ouryearly income, which has enabled us to make a differencein the lives of many people in our community.

Our commitment to our Orthodox communitycontinues to be an integral part of our mission. In thefirst two decades of the 21st century we initiated andpaid for the following projects:

◆ Upgraded the audio (sound) system at theHellenic Center (2003)

◆ Established a beautiful and spiritually moving BiblicalGarden adjacent to the church edifice (2007). The$65,000 Garden, believed to be the first OrthodoxBiblical Garden on the East Coast, features plantsand trees mentioned in the Holy Bible.

◆ Donated a substantial amount of money to improvethe parking lot behind the kitchen for the festival(2005)

◆ Sponsored annually the Christmas Banquet for theGolden Hearts

◆ Donated $500 toward the purchase of the piano inthe Choir room (2005)

◆ Awarded 18 merit scholarships for a total of$18,000 in the last decade

◆ Contributed annually to Mission Walk

Our contributions beyond the confines of theOrthodox community have been as follows:

◆ Signed a contract with the Newport News PublicLibrary System and actively participated inCelebrating the History and Diversity of the City ofNewport News (2005)

◆ Contributed $1,500 to the Ferguson Center for theArts (2005-2007)

◆ Contributed $1,000 to the International OrthodoxChristian Charities (IOCC) for the Tsunami victims

◆ Contributed $500 to the International OrthodoxChristian Charities (IOCC) for the Katrina ReliefFund

◆ Contributed annually to the following additionalcharities:

Alzheimers Association, American CancerSociety, American Heart Association, AmericanRed Cross, American Breast Cancer Foundation,Children’s Hospital of the Kings Daughters, St.Jude’s, Daily Press Christmas Fund, DiabetesAssociation, United Way, and Missions Walk

In the last four years, our mission has beenexpanded to include women’s health issues, theenvironment, and cultural exposures. Hence, ourprograms reflect our mission themes. In 2008, our maininterest was the protection of our environment as echoedby the words of His Holiness Ecumenical PatriarchBartholomew who wrote, “The world is not ours for usto use as we please. It (the environment) is a gift ofGod’s love to us. We must return that love byprotecting it with whatever responsibilities it mayentail.”

Moved by the Ecumenical Patriarch’s interest in theenvironment, we proceeded to read the Labrys byEugene and Penelope Maurakis, which made many of usaware of the hazards of pesticides to our health.Additionally, we were exposed to the topic on “Savingthe Chesapeake Bay” from a representative from theChesapeake Bay Foundation, who encouraged us tolobby our two U.S. Senators to endorse the ChesapeakeClean Water and Ecosystem Restoration Act,sponsored by Virginia Congressmen Bobby Scott andJim Moran. The bill “ensures all seven Bayjurisdictions develop and implement detailed plans toreduce nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment pollutionto healthy levels by 2025.” Discussion of our secondtheme, “women’s health concerns,” was initiated by avery interesting presentation by the Health Departmenton the H1N1 vaccine, and a speaker from the AmericanDiabetes Association.

On January 23, 2005, we reached another milestone inthe annals of our history by celebrating our 75thAnniversary with an elegant banquet at Point Plaza. Ourkeynote speaker was former U.S. Senator and currentPresident of Christopher Newport University PaulTrible. A video of our 75-year-old history was producedand was shown to the members during the celebration.Likewise, on November 20, 2009, we observed our 80thAnniversary with a banquet and a renewed commitmentto take an active role in protecting our environment.

Our latest project has been the purchase of 400elegant banquet chairs, at a cost of $47,000, which wedonated to the church to rent at formal functions and,thus, generate additional income.

The Hellenic Woman’s Penelope Society is veryproud of its heritage and its accomplishments. Ourmembers work diligently and eagerly contribute theirtalents and energy in making our community a betterplace to live. Our strength lies not in our numbers butin our commitment to our Orthodox community and toour community at-large.

HISTORY OF THE HELLENIC WOMAN’S PENELOPE SOCIETYPage 2