sunday services: orthros 8:00 a.m. liturgy 9:30 a.m. the...

The Anchor—FALL 2016

THE anchorTHE anchor St. Andrew Greek Orthodox ChurchSt. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church

5649 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 606605649 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660 773773--334334--4515 (ph)4515 (ph) 773773--334334--3468 (fax)3468 (fax)

www.standreworthodox.orgwww.standreworthodox.org (email) [email protected](email) [email protected]

Rev. John N. Kalomas, ProistamenosRev. John N. Kalomas, Proistamenos Rev. John G. Kutulas, In loving memoryRev. John G. Kutulas, In loving memory

Deacon Vasilios SmithDeacon Vasilios Smith

Sunday Services: Sunday Services: Orthros 8:00 a.m. Liturgy 9:30 a.m.Orthros 8:00 a.m. Liturgy 9:30 a.m.

Throughout my life I had many mentors who have affected me in such positive ways. Excluding my father and mother who were the main individuals there have been many others. Mrs. Ruth Smithers who was my Social Studies teacher in Junior High School and Fr. Nikiforos Tzerdimos who sowed the seeds of ordination at my young age. My Uncle Chris who consistently picked me up every Saturday morning during the school year and every day during my summer vacation to take me to his Shell Gas Station in which it was my first job. Mr. John Velon who introduced me to the choir and to the chanter stand. Of course my wife Kiki who has mentored me to be a good husband, a good father, and even a good priest. There are so many more who have molded my life into who I am today. I know that in your lives there have been mentors that also have molded you and affected you to be the individuals that you are today.

Mentoring never ends for any of us until the day we close our eyes and meet our Lord in Heaven. Even through my 25 years of priesthood I have had many individuals who have mentored me especially the youth who have come into my life. Still, for almost half of my priesthood I had a mentor who I looked up to and taught me in many ways. He was kind with a loving heart. Some may have thought that he was stern, but if you really got to know him you would see his humor, his love, his kindness and yes, if you happened to be on the receiving end, his discipline. He was just a simple priest; nothing more, nothing less. This is why I have called my Anchor Article “Twelve Years Of Mentoring From A Wonderful Man.”

It was June 1st 2004. I had just entered into the side room of the altar here at St. Andrew. It was my first Sunday as the Proistamenos and I was excited to do my first Divine Liturgy at St. Andrew. The first person I met was George our caretaker cutting the prosphoro for the Sunday Liturgy. It was my first meeting with George and we exchanged our pleasantries. I had vestments in my arms and was trying to figure out where I was going to hang them and which room I would vest. Yes it was my first

day ,and I was the young priest getting ready to fill the shoes of a man who served this community for 37 years both as an assistant and as the Proistameno.

Of course Fr. John Kutulas came in and embraced me and welcomed me to my new position. He looked at both George our Neokoro and Nick our Psalti and said to them “This is your boss,” to which I responded, “as much I am your boss, you have two bosses now, myself and Fr. Kutulas.”

I was very nervous because here I am a 42-year-old priest and I was asking myself how am I going to tell a 71-year-old priest what to do? I would never do that. I was never taught that. My father and mother from my young age taught me the respect of others especially your elders. I once said, “I was spanked when I was a child, and now I suffer from a disorder called respect for others.” Who am I to tell Fr. John Kutulas, do this or do that. No way can I nor would I. Fr. John saw this and said to me “Pappouli do not be afraid of anything. I am an old man but I have learned something through out my years especially about individuals. You have an air about you that exemplifies kindness. Do what you have learned and I will be by your side to help you.” Then his voice became stern; “But remember you are the Proistameno not me and don’t forget it.” Then he winked his eye. It was one of the most beautiful first liturgies that I celebrated in a long time.

As the days started going by as well as the weeks, Fr. Kutulas introduced me to many dear friends of his. We started having our weekly constitutionals at Mykonos restaurant with Fr. Treantafelis, Fr. Bakakos, Fr. Botsis, and Fr. Angelo Artemas along with myself. Fr. Kutulas introduced me to his good friend Augie at Augie’s restaurant in Andersonville. We would go out with his close friend Soto Colovos or Connie Malos.

After about three to four weeks, we were sitting having lunch; Fr. Kutulas and I at Augie’s. I had noticed that

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The 12 Years Of Mentoring From A Wonderful Man (Tribute to Fr. John Kutulas)


Cathy Fasseas Terri Mikuzis

Thank you all for your con nued help and support throughout the year! Please contact the church office

if you are able to help with mailings.

OFFICE ASSISTANCE

ST. ANDREW’S FOOD PANTRY More and more everyday less fortunate people are asking churches for food. In these difficult mes St. Andrew would like to help them, but in order to do so we need

your help.

Please help us restock our food pantry with items such as: cereal, oatmeal, rice, pasta, pasta sauce. Also, canned items of tuna,

tomato sauce, soup, vegetables, fruit or any other non‐perishable items. It is helpful if the canned goods have a flip‐top lid. Monetary dona ons will also be accepted.

In an effort ini ated by our dear departed friend and Philoptochos sister Ethel Kotsovos, members of the greater Chicago Orthodox community have had the privilege of serving lunch to approximately 100 less fortunate fellow human beings on the first Saturday of the month for more than 15 years. The soup kitchen, located at the First Presbyterian Church in Evanston, is just one part of that church's strong community outreach program. St. Andrews Philoptochos and other volunteers have consistently and con nuously served the Saturday soup kitchen, longer than any other single contribu ng group. Please consider joining them.

ST. ANDREW GREEK ORTST. ANDREW GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCHHODOX CHURCH

His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos Metropolis of Chicago

Rev. John N. Kalomas, Proistamenos Rev. John G. Kutulas, In Loving Memory

Deacon Vasilios Smith

Contact Fr. John at 773‐334‐4515 or Email him at [email protected]

PARISH COUNCIL 2016

Terri Mikuzis President Phil Hatzopoulos 1st Vice President/Facili es Mark Poulakidas 2nd Vice President/Stewardship Jeffery Chrones 3rd Vice President/Finance Bill Aslanides Secretary Nick Hatzopoulos Treasurer Michael Bartholomew Assistant Treasurer George Marks Financial Secretary

M

Peter Alexopoulos Steve Hastalis Nick Karafo as Spiro Kondos Nick Kontos Frank Prokos Nick Tzakis Kosta Zografopoulos

STAFF & MINISTRY LEADERS

Pastoral Assistant: Athanasios Minetos Financial Secretary: Vivian L. Davros Office Secretary: Alejandra Franco

Philoptochos President: Cynthia Melas

Chanters: Nicholas Christacos & Dean Theodoropoulos Choir Director: Dr. Peter Jermihov

Narthex Commi ee: William Alexopoulos, Leo Manta, Ma hew Bezanes, James Chrones, Michael Davros, Solon Tsaoussis

Sunday School Coordinator: Tracey Lazos

Greek School Principal: Father John Kalomas

Mommy and Me Advisor: Stephane Collopy JOY Advisors: Tia Manolakas, & Bill Aslanides GOYA Advisor: Georgia Loomas Young Adult Ministry: Ta ana Vuko c, Anastasia Papas, & Eleni Papas


even though I was getting to church on Sunday morning around 7-7:15, Fr. Kutulas was always there before me. I asked him “Pappouli” because that word became a word of affection between the two of us; “What time do you get to church on Sunday?” He responded, “iIt varies. Sometimes 6 sometimes 6:15am.” I said “Pappouli please. You don’t have to kill yourself and get up that early to come to church. Get some rest. Relax. Come in later if you want.” He once again responded, “Pappouli unless you tell me that I cannot be here at that time, that is the time I will come. Please do not take this away from me.” I felt bad that I had even brought it up because it wasn’t that I didn’t want Fr. Kutulas here that early, I just wanted to make sure he got his rest. I then said, “Well then Pappouli, if that is the time you want to come in, then do me a favor? Would you mind if you would then start Orthros at 8am in case I am running late? As a matter of fact I said, “why don’t you start Orthros every time as well as doing the Proskomidi (which is the preparing of the gifts during the Orthros Service).” I saw the biggest smile on his face. It was like seeing a child receiving a gift that he or she had written to Santa Clause and opening it up and finding it on Christmas Day. “Are you serious? You don’t have a problem of me doing this?” he said to me. “Absolutely not. Pappouli, I want you to feel that this is still your altar, this is still your church, this is still your desk and office. You come and go whenever you like. You do what you have been doing in the past and don’t worry about asking me, because this is still your home. There is nothing that you will do that can ever make me worried or uncomfortable.” I can truly say that after that conversation I saw a more calmer Fr. Kutulas; a more joyful Fr. Kutulas; a man who was more at ease in his surroundings knowing that his priesthood still had a lot of meaning here at St. Andrew. Oh yes he fought me on one thing. Once a month I told him that I want to relinquish my position on a Sunday and that he be the Proistameno, and give the sermon. He always said “No! You are the Proistameno.” I kept on saying “Yes Pappouli, but once a month.” Again “No you are the Proistameno.” Finally I said to him “You are right. I am the Proistameno. Now get in front of the altar and you be the Proistameno today.” As an honorable man; He went and served as the Proistameno once a month.

He taught me the importance of service. He was to me a plethora of knowledge about saints and the history not only of St. Andrew, but also of the Archdiocese. His Greek was impeccable, and he wrote all the transcript forms that the Metropolis uses for weddings and baptisms that need to be in Greek and to go to Greece. He loved the Greek Language and showed me the beauty of having that knowledge. He was a perfectionist, wanted everything to be correct and in order. I can say though that I was kind of a pest to him. Not in a negative way but I would rib him with comments about the Cubs or fishing occasionally till he would say “Leave me alone.”

Three passions he did have, and they were very strong; First of all his duty as a priest to his services and the people that he served. No one will forget his booming voice

during the services of Holy Week, or when he would turn to the congregation either at a memorial service and sing “Eternal be your Memory” in Greek or during the Blessing of the Five loaves and sing “Plousi eptoxefsan kai epinasan”. I saw the vigor, the importance, the feeling he possessed, and I said to my self, “Wow! I truly marvel at the love and dedication Pappouli has for the church.” It moved me to try to experience that feeling that he was experiencing.

Secondly he had his pipe. He loved it and neither doctor, family member, Proistameno, or anyone could take this away from him. They had told me that he shouldn’t be smoking, but I would occasionally catch Pappouli in his car with his pipe. I would pull up to him and he would look at me with that raised eyebrow like he was saying “Yeah. So what. There is nothing you can do about this.” I would then shake my finger with a smile on my face saying “Naughty, naughty.” He would then give me the hand gesture of “Leave me alone.” I will be truthful that I never pushed the envelope with Pappouli and his pipe. I knew where that line was in many different things of being a friendly pest to Pappouli, but I never crossed it.

His third was that every year I had to close two weeks out for Pappouli in the latter part of June. Those were the times of his expedition with his grandson John and his friend Connie Malos when they would travel way up to Wisconsin (Hayward) if I am not mistaken, to bring home a nice fish to fry. Most of the times they were successful but there were times he came back empty handed. I ribbed him by saying “Pappouli you have to bait the hook to get something.” Oh my that eye brow would rise up. Then one day there came one of the most difficult times for Fr. Kutulas, and I could see it in his face. When he came back from his fishing trip and said to me “Pappouli. I can’t do this anymore. This is my last time.” I was heartbroken more than Fr. Kutulas was. I kept on saying, “Don’t give up Pappouli. Maybe you will find the strength and be able to go.” He said “No Pappouli. My legs are telling me that this is it.” I actually cried in my car on the way back home for this man. I saw the want in his eyes to still do this but the resolve in his heart that he could no more.

As the years passed I could see the decrease yet there was still the will and the strength. From the time when he used to tell me from day one “don’t worry about trying to fight morning traffic, for the different feast days on weekdays, I will take care of the liturgies, to the time when he couldn’t drive any more, he still came to his beloved St. Andrew, when his grandchildren brought him to Sunday morning service and he would walk down the side aisle. Once in a while he would fully vest like for the major feast days Christmas and Easter, but even then he couldn’t endure the standing. He then chose to sit in one of the two chairs in the back of the altar; next to another Clergy brother Fr. Gabriel Karambis. I stood there and was sad but still in an admiring state seeing Fr. Kutulas still stand up to walk up to the front of the altar, do his prostrations, turn to the

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brother clergy and ask for forgiveness and then turn to the congregation and ask forgiveness from them and finally take communion. His resolve was to try as much as he could do; also come out for the memorial service for those who he knew and cared for. Eventually those came to an end and during the early month of October 2015 Pappouli was hospitalized not being able to come back to his beloved St. Andrew.

I would visit this man who I held as a mentor as a Proistameno that I really never had either at the hospital or at his house. Once in a while he would make it out to the Mykonos restaurant in which Fr. Dean Botsis or I would drive him back to his house, but eventually those also came to an end also when he was bed ridden. I always stopped and gave him his National Herald Newspapers, which he loved to read. I kept on encouraging him never to give up and work with the physical therapist but I could see that even though the will was strong, his body was very weak.

I would stop by the house occasionally, and if someone was home to open the door, I would enjoy seeing him and having our usual conversations. He always asked how Kiki, Katrina and Nicholas were. He had a very special place for my children. Every year, when they were younger and we first came to St. Andrew he never missed a Christmas gift from either Best Buy or Toys R Us for both. Our conversation was always about church and matters of the world. He always told me not to give in but do what is the Truth of what God says and he always told me that “Pappouli you are a godly man.” I am far from that, for this priest is not worthy of anything, but God blessed me with Fr. John Kutulas. When I was ready to leave he would thank me and say how happy he was to see me. He always asked one more thing; he always wanted to know how my dog Gandalf was. You see when Pappouli was still able to move around in the office, Gandalf sometimes made visits there. He showed so much affection and always reminisced about his own dog that he had which was a collie. He said it was the best dog that he had and how much it meant to the entire family and how close it was to Fr. Kutulas.

It was a strange morning on Saturday July 2nd 2016. For the first time in a while I didn’t have any sacraments that day. I had the opportunity to sleep in and then pull my suitcase out to pack for our drive with Presvytera the next day to Clergy Laity in Nashville, Tennessee. I was sitting down at the kitchen table with an uneasy feeling over me. Suddenly my phone rang and the ID on the phone said Fr. John Kutulas. I picked up the phone to hear the awful news from Kiki, Fr. Kutulas’ daughter that our beloved Fr. John had passed away, something which I was told would eventually happen, but not this soon. I told Kiki that I was on my way and hung up the phone. Tears swelled up in my eyes thinking of the man 12 years ago whom I met in the back of the altar of St. Andrew on June 1st 2004. I tried to place thoughts in my mind but I was numb. What I did think of was events that we shared together, our first Christmas, Easter, Festival, and Dinner Dance. I tried to remember other things and I asked to myself what do I say about this man? How do I eulogize him? All I could do is

turn to Presvytera and say “Please come with me. I need your help on this. Fr. Kutulas passed away.” She hugged me and we got in the car and headed up. I remember telling my children before I left and they were both sad but Nicholas put it in perspective. He said “Dad, Fr. John has not been at church for a while and I can only imagine how much that hurts him. He is not hurting anymore is he dad?” I said, “No Niko, he is not. He is with his priest friends and his other friends and also with his mommy and daddy.” Niko said “Well dad isn’t that good? I know we are sad but isn’t that good that Fr. John is not hurting anymore and that Hristouli has picked him up out of the bed that he was lying in? He doesn’t need that bed or cane anymore does he dad?” I said “No Niko he doesn’t.” “Well then we should be a little happy even though we miss him. I will miss him but am happy that he doesn’t hurt anymore and I am sure he is happy.”

What more can I say? My son was able to put those 12 years of mentoring for me in just a few seconds. We walked into the house and both Kiki and Presvytera Angie met us. We hugged and we cried. I cannot say what I would have done had I not had those words from my son and my Presvytera being with me. They both gave me strength and inspiration.

We went downstairs and read the Trisagion prayer over Pappouli and I could see that he was at peace finally. It hurt so much because I lost not only a mentor but also a close friend. The rest we all know. The planning of the funeral; The outpouring of people; The funeral with the clergy and the hierarchs who came. All of us came to honor the man who performed most of your weddings; baptized the majority of your children; did the weddings of your children and baptized not only your grandchildren, but also your great-grandchildren. He also did the many funerals of your loved ones.

So what is the answer for us? It was for me 12 years of mentoring and learning from a wise man. Many of you surpass my 12 years by more than twice as much. What was your mentoring in the years of Fr. John Kutulas? I can only say that the words of Fr. Kutulas speak loud, just as his chanting voice rang so loud. Keep your loved ones close. Tell them that you love them as often as you can. Spend time with those who are important. Children spend time with your parents especially when they are elderly because there will come a day when we will not have them anymore. Those who have grandparents and great-grandparents learn from their grey hair. They did not get there being dumb but reached it through the individuals that mentored them. Parents tell your children that you love them also, because there will come a day as Fr. Kutulas always said to the parents at the baptism of their children “There will come a day when you will have to let them go.” So tell them now in the living years and not by text message or Face Time or email. Tell them with your voice that God gave you and personally face to face so you can see, hear, feel, and respond back to your loved ones with the words “I Love You,” and with an embrace.


For me, I can only say that the love, the consideration, the support, the understanding, the sympathy, the compassion that Pappouli showed me surpasses any type of mentoring that I received except for my parents. But even then Pappouli’s mentoring was a mentoring to my priesthood and how I should be a better priest. I can only say that I am nothing but a simple priest, no more, no less just a priest and that God gave it to me. Why I can never understand, but Fr. Kutulas once said to me “Who can ever really understand why God does these things. He knows better. Leave it in his hands.”

Well Fr. John, we left it in God’s hands and as you left it in God’s hands. Go with God’s speed to Him and celebrate the

Holy Eucharist at the table of our Lord in Heaven. As we remember you here upon this earth, please remember all of us from heaven. I thank you for the 12 years that we were together. I will never forget what you taught me. I will always remember your smile and I will remember the words of my son Nicholas. You didn’t die my friend and co-celebrant. The only thing that died was the disease that held you down from doing what you loved doing. It can’t hold you down any more, so fish to your hearts delight, and when we arrive, we will eat that which you catch. I like mine pan fried with skordalia. Fr. John Kalomas

SOCIETY OF SAINT ROMANOS THE MELODIST

FORMING A VISION OF ORTHODOX CULTURE

WORLD PREMIERE OF NEWLY COMPOSED DIVINE LITURGY

GREEK LITURGY by Fr. Ivan Moody

Chicago, IL, May 15, 2016– Two years ago, the Society of Saint Romanos the Melodist commissioned a Divine Liturgy from Bri sh, Orthodox composer—Fr. Ivan Moody. The new Greek Liturgy, based on tradi onal Greek Byzan ne chants, is now completed and will be premiered on Sunday, October 2, 2016 at the celebra on of Divine Liturgy at St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago and sung by the St. Romanos Cappella. The work is commissioned and dedicated to the memory of John Bartholomew, member of the Order of St. Andrew Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarch. This world premiere of the Greek Liturgy is part of a series of events celebra ng the 90th Anniversary of St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago. It also commemorates the Feast of Day of St. Romanos the Melodist, Patron Saint of church musicians, and the 15th Anniversary of the Society of Saint Romanos the Melodist. On Saturday, October 1 at 2:00 pm in the St. Andrew President’s Room, Fr. Ivan Moody will present a lecture on his newly composed Greek Liturgy and Some Perspec ves on the Theology of Orthodox Music (see his ar cle: h p://www.mdpi.com/2077‐1444/6/2/350/htm). Dr. Peter Jermihov, Founder and Ar s c Director of the Society, stated: “As a long‐term objec ve, the Society formulated a vision to commission from various Orthodox composers one major liturgical composi on per year. Following the landmark contribu ons of Orthodox composers such as Steven Cardiosmenos, Frank Desby, Anna Gallos, Christopher Kypros, John Revezoulis, John Sakellarides, and Tikey Zes, the Society hopes to con nue to enrich the liturgical life of the Church by facilita ng newly composed works for worship.” The Society of Saint Romanos the Melodist is a Not‐for‐Profit 501(c)(3) corpora on with tax‐exempt status, founded in 2001 to promote Eastern Orthodox culture in general and sacred music in par cular. The Society organizes and presents dis nc ve cultural events that further an awareness of Eastern Orthodoxy in America. These events include commissions of new works of art, concerts of sacred music, presenta on of guest‐ar sts, speakers and ensembles, theological seminars, and pilgrimages. The Society is endorsed by Members of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of North and Central America. His Eminence, Metropolitan IAKOVOS is the Honorary Chairman of the Society Board and Fr. John N. Kalomas, Proistamenos is the Society’s Spiritual Advisor.

If you would like more informa on about this event, please contact Peter Jermihov at 773‐558‐4864, email the Society at [email protected] or visit the Society website at www.societyromanos.org

Contact Peter Jermihov Telephone 773-558-4864 Email [email protected] Website www.societyromanos.org


Welcome back! The Parish Council and I hope all of you had a wonderful summer. For those of you getting children ready for school, college Freshmen ready to go to start a new chapter of their life, or just settling in to your usual daily routine, we as a Parish are all preparing for the beginning of our new Ecclesiastical year. This year will be filled with events celebrating our 90th year in the Service of the Lord. We will be starting off with our Basile event on Saturday, September 10th in our Auditorium. Our Chairmen Vonnie Karafotias and Kathy Kaporis and their committee have been working very hard to make this a beautiful event. The cost of the tickets are $75.00, inclusive of open bar and Hors D’oeuvres. We will be celebrating Holy Cross services on September 14th in the main Church. The work on the Chapel continues with some of the pieces restored. We are very pleased with the work that has been done by these exceptional artisans. We have been able to restore the original Cross with Jesus that was used when St. Andrew’s began in 1926 and the small inconostacio with the icon of Holy Cross. The stained glass windows in the Chapel are now being worked on. As each day progresses we continue to do more. We have been fortunate to have had good insurance to cover all of this work.

Our General Assembly will be taking place in October. Watch for your letter giving you the date. It is important you attend as stewards of the Church. This is the time of the year where we present the budget for 2017, and go over all the financials of 2016. It gives you, the steward an opportunity to ask questions of the Parish Council. Please make every effort to attend. On Friday, November 18th, we will once again have our boxing event. Further information will follow on our website. Saint Andrew’s vespers will be held Tuesday, November 29, with liturgy on Wednesday, November 30th. To end 2016, we will be celebrating our 90th Anniversary in the Service of the Lord. The Gala Dinner Dance is being held at the Loews Chicago Hotel on Saturday, December 3. 2016. Everyone will be receiving their invitation by the beginning of November. Our Chairman Peggy Papioanniou and her Co-Chairs Stephanie Poulakidis, and Marilyn Tzakis have planned for an elegant and exciting evening for all. Once again we are happy to see all of you back. Please take the time to register your children for Sunday School, Greek School, and all of the other ministries that are offered. Terri Mikuzis


UPCOMING CHURCH SERVICES

Thursday, September 8, 2016 The Nativity of the Theotokos Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy 10:00 a.m.

Wednesday, September 14, 2016 Feast Day of the Holy Cross Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 28, 2016 OXI day Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy 10:00 a.m.

Monday, November 21, 2016 Entrance of the Theotokos Orthros 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 29, 2016 Great Vespers for St. Andrew Vespers 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 30, 2016 Feast Day of St. Andrew Orthros 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy 10:00 a.m.

Adult Catechism Classes

Wednesday Evenings 7:00—8:00 pm

Beginning October 5th and continuing until November 23rd

All those interested in learning more about the Orthodox Christian Faith are invited to join us.

Please contact Fr. John Kalomas at (773)334-4515 or [email protected] to register for class or for further information.


40 Day Blessings

Elizabeth Aggeliki, daughter of Eudoxia & Dean Taradash

Achilles, son of Caroline & Elias Karras

Stella Theodora, daughter of Demetra & Christos Haralampus

Hudson, son of Sophia & Chris an Kopp

Adonios Aris this, son of Panayiota & Aris this Loukas

Bap sms

Evan Raymond, son of Alexis & Raymond Koukari

Morgan Elizabeth, daughter of Gina & Chris Uhle

Jack Stephen & Leo Alexander, sons of Alyssa & Riley Quinn

Benjamin Cox

Zephyra, daughter of Shannon & Dean George

Weddings

Maria Kozonis & Kostas Metropulos

Dena Stamatoukos & Kyle Tu on

Linda Lazar & Matei Popa‐Radu

Chris na Nassis & Steven Royal

Georgia Loomos & Alex Nellessen

Lindsey Anderson & George Sto s

Jessica Wacker & Jason Lohner

Funerals

Chris ne Savoy Spiros Lazos

Fr. John Kutulas

Memorials

Fr. John Kutulas—40 days Spiros Lazos—40 days

Ana Protopapas—40 days Chris ne Savoy—40 days Janice Theodore—40 days Christos Karras—6 months

Paul Kalpake—1 year Very Rev. Gabriel Karambis—1 year

John Bartholomew—3 years John Kapsalis—3 years

Christ Karafo as—3 years Gus Loucas—3 years

Jim (Demetri) Kalas—5 years Georgia Loukas—7 years

George Karafo as—12 years Theodore Metros—30 years

“For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother, and shall be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one.”

Preparing for marriage is truly a beau ful period of expecta on and joy. As you get ready for the “big day,” it is also important to spend me ge ng ready for the days that follow that “big day.” As you know, Holy Matrimony is not only a Sacrament at the me of the ceremony, but also throughout life. At St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church, we invite all couples ge ng married to par cipate in a Marriage Prepara on Seminar where you can discuss issues related to marriage, the struggles along the way, and the strategies for preparing for the journey. All couples are required to par cipate in one of these workshops, prior to your wedding date.

Marriage Preparation Seminars will be held from 10 am—3 pm on the following Saturdays:

September 10 November 12

Please RSVP to Fr John at [email protected]


St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos Society

2016 Na onal Philoptochos Biennial Conven on & 43rd Na onal Clergy Laity Congress

July 3 ‐ 8, 2016 Gaylord Opryland Resort and Conven on Center

Nashville, TN

St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos Representa ves at the na onal conven on were:

Delegates: Vonnie Karafo as, Hellena Chrones, and Demetra Christus Metropolis Representa ve: Pa y Tsaoussis Na onal Members: Arlene Siavelis Kehl, 1st Vice President; board members: Kathy Siavelis and Marilyn Tzakis. The picture

to the bo om right was taken of all the Philoptochos members a ending the conven on.

Our Na onal Members all played a role in presenta ons at the conven on. Arlene Siavelis Kehl presented informa on related to the purchase and opera on of the Philoptochos Center of

Philanthropy. Arlene has been part of the loca on and long range planning commi ee of the Center since its incep on. As First Vice President, Arlene played a significant role in the planning and organiza on of the Conven on.

Kathy was involved in the presenta on about human trafficking. Thistle Farms/Magdalene Homes of Nashville made a presenta on; this organiza on is made up of a powerful community of women who are healing from pros tu on, trafficking and addic on. Magdalene Homes includes a two‐year residen al program, with educa on, training and advocacy services for women so that they can recover, heal and lead produc ve lives.

Marilyn par cipated in Philoptochos Going Green project, inspired by His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew known worldwide as the “Green Patriarch.” The Environment Responsibility Commi ee is tasking us all to: Take the challenge; recycle and reuse plas c bags in our Chapter and Church Community. BE AWARE, BE SMART, AND BE ACTIVE IN SUSTAINING THE ENVIVRONMENT. The message was loud and clear to make sure you make an effort to carry cloth or mul ‐use bags whenever possible.


A long term project is being promoted to consolidate and send in items to a recommended recycling company for reimbursement. This fund raising can help all by being responsible, going green and ge ng green for those in need.

In addi on, the Na onal Philoptochos treasurer reported that the Na onal office distributed $1,736,748 in funding to needy organiza ons. The 1.7M does not include what each local Philoptochos raises for local programs. As always, Philoptochos thanks you for your con nued support to allow us to bring happiness to the unfortunate and needy people in the Edgewater Community. Members represen ng the Clergy Laity Congress were: Father John Kalomas, Terri Mikuzis, President Parish Council, Nick Karafo as, Parish Council Member. The bo om le picture was taken at the last evening banquet dinner: Marilyn Tzakis, Vonnie Karafo as, Arlene Siavelis Kehl, Christopher Karafo as, Nick Karafo as, Demetra Christus, Dan Christus, Kathy Siavelis, Hellena Chrones, Terri Mikuzis. Missing: Jeff Chrones. As you may recall, one of Na onal Philoptochos President Maria Logos’ challenges, in July, 2015, was for the Philoptochos organiza ons was to provide meals to the needy to the tune of 250,000 meals by the me of the na onal conven on in 2016. At the conven on, it was reported that 667,504 meals for the needy had been served…well exceeding everyone’s expecta ons. The top right picture (above) was from the morning of July 7th, when 25,188 meals were prepared by delegates from the Philoptochos and clergy laity congress for the needy children in Nashville and Greece. Then, it was announced on July 12th by Commi ee Chair Georgia Vlitas, that Philoptochos organiza ons na onwide had served 764,285 in our partnership with Feeding Children Everywhere. All Philoptochos organiza ons will con nue this program with earnest. Please note por ons of this ar cle u lized informa on published on the Na onal Philoptochos website.

Locally, it is important to note that our small band of ladies led by Vonnie Karafo as and Vicky Karagianis, coordinated lunch and dinner sack meals made over $11,435 in this period for Sarah’s Circle and Night Ministry. As a result, our Philoptochos led the Chicago Metropolis in meals provided. Congratula ons to Vonnie, Vicki, Semi Karnezos, Gina Brelias, Karen Anderson, Semi Karnezos, Nan Rumsey, Terri Mikuzis, Cathy Fasseas, Stephane Collopy, Kathy Kaporis, Georgia Farlekas, Tina Arvanitakis, Dimitra Loukissa, Diane Alexander White, and Samia Sami. Diane White, a big thank you for always being on hand to document the efforts of these ladies and Philoptochos.

St. Andrew Stewards:

If you know an owner of a grocery store or fruit market to approach for a dona on, please contact Vicki or Vonnie. We welcome individual dona ons as well to help defray the $100. monthly costs.

Items used: 9 loaves wheat bread, 1 large peanut bu er, 1 jar large grape jelly, 50 slices Swiss cheese, 4 lbs. Krakus Ham, 5 lbs. Sara Lee/Bu erball Turkey, 80 cans pop/juice boxes, cookies, 80 Cu e oranges, brown lunch bags, and plas c sandwich bags.

We have been fortunate to receive dona ons from Mariano’s, Jewel, and Treasure Island to help our efforts along with dona ons from the container in Pangari, we are able to keep this ongoing. Philoptochos thanks each and every one of you for your con nued support toward this outreach project. or further details or to answer any ques ons, Vicki (773‐327‐3194) and Vonnie; vonnie@karafo as.com This year, Pentecost was celebrated on May 31st; many thanks to Marilyn Tzakis, Angela Alexopoulos and Eugenia Demos for preparing and coordina ng the coffee hour recep on a er services for the Metropolitan and parish members in the President’s Room.


Friday, June 20th saw a wonderful gathering to celebrate Father John Kalomas’ 25th Anniversary of his ordina on. Maria Kotsinis and her commi ee did a wonderful job providing a delicious meal, fabulous music, a tremendous program and presenta on of Father John’s years as a youth and priest to many. Philoptochos was proud to contribute to the beau ful cross presented to Father John that evening. Thank you Father John for being our spiritual leader,providing your friendship, your guidance and your strength for all of us.

In addi on, Dreamcatchers “Helping Women in Need” Personal Items Drive: Many thanks to Vonnie Karafo as, Stephanie Collopy and Vickie Karagianis for coordina ng this effort. In late July, Cathy Fasseas met Brenda Myers Powell and gave her 120 personal items packages. Addi onal informa on about Dreamcatchers can be found at www.thedreamcatcherfounda on.org

September 13th Holy Cross Vespers evening services and September 14th Exalta on of Holy Cross, morning services will have recep ons in the President’s Room. We are looking for ladies to bake both Lenten and non‐Lenten sweets. Please contact Cynthia Melas at 847‐757‐3835 or Marianne Nichols if you are able to bake. Thank you.

The new Philoptochos Ecclesias cal year begins on September 24th, 2016. Please join St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos Society at our Annual Metropolis Luncheon, “Celebra ng 85 Years of Philanthropy and Agape – Past, Present and Future” on Saturday, September 24, 2016 at The Carlisle in Lombard, IL. $50 per person. Proceeds will benefit: Aid to Greece and Cyprus, the St. Iakovos Retreat Center, the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and Na onal Shrine, and the Metropolis Philoptochos Philanthropic Endeavors. Please make your reserva on checks payable to: SAWPS by September 10th. For further informa on, please contact, Marilyn Tzakis at 312‐404‐7962 or [email protected]. Our own Kathy Siavelis is one of this year's luncheon chairman. *****************************************************************************************************

St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos 2015‐2016 Stewardship Form

Suggested Annual Stewardship Dona on: $40.00 To be distributed as follows: Na onal Philoptochos: $15.00 & Metropolis Philoptochos: $6.00

Any addi onal amount supports the good works of our chapter. Please print a copy of this form and complete.

Name _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Spouse ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________

City ______________________________________________________ State _____________ Zip ___________________

Phone Number _______________________ Cell Number____________________________

Email _____________________________________________Dona on Amount __________

Please make check payable to St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos Society (SAWPS) Mail your check and this form to:

St. Andrew’s Women’s Philoptochos Society A n: Hellena Chrones, Membership

5649 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60660


As summer slowly winds to a close, I’m excited to welcome the St. Andrews families Back to School!

Sunday School will kick off on September 11th with the Agiasmos Service, Backpack Blessing and our Annual Back to School BBQ. The Sunday School classes and St. Andrew’s Philoptochos have once again partnered to collect backpacks and school supplies to be donated to Care for Real. Backpacks, school supplies and/or monetary contribu ons can be dropped off at the Main Office through September 11th.

Sunday Church School registra on kicks off on August 28th and will run through the month of September. Registra on forms can be found on the Church website, in the Main Office or can be requested via email at [email protected]. The registra on fee of is $50 for the first child and $10 for each addi onal child; this fee is applied to classroom supplies, educa onal materials and youth/family ministry ac vi es.

There is an exci ng year planned including old tradi ons, new programs, and opportuni es to give back to our community through the 90 Acts of Kindness. I look forward to seeing you at Church and embarking on another year full of faith, fellowship and fun!

With love in Christ,

Classes for the 2016-2017 School Year begin on Saturday, September 10, 2016. Tuition rates for the 2016-2017 Year are as follows:

Morning Program Monday-Friday

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Stewards: Full Payment at time of Registration: $3,000.00 ½ Payment at time of Registration: $3,100.00

Non-Stewards: Full Payment at time of Registration: $4,000.00 ½ Payment at time of Registration: $4,100.00

Saturday Greek School Saturday Mornings

9:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Stewards: Full Payment at time of Registration: $900.00 ½ Payment at time of Registration: $975.00

Non-Stewards: Full Payment at time of Registration: $1,600.00

½ Payment at time of Registration: $1,675.00

THE ABOVE TUITION RATES INCLUDE A $75.00 BOOK, SUPPLY & PTO FEE

*There is a $50 discount which will be applied per additional

child enrolled in one of our programs


St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church

5649 N. Sheridan Rd.

Chicago, IL 60660-4803

Greek School Begins Saturday, September 10

Sunday School Begins Sunday, September 11

OCF Begins with Back to School BBQ Monday, September 12

sunday services: orthros 8:00 a.m. liturgy 9:30 a.m. the...

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