Sunday January 29, 2023- Translation of the Relics of St. Ignatius of Antioch
Upcoming Services and Events
January 30, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
February 1, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Presentation of the Lord, 6:00pm
February 2, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ "For the Life of the World" book discussion on Zoom, 7:00pm https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
February 3, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
February 4, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
February 5, Sunday, Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Sunday School, 9:15am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
Newest Announcements .
Vesperal Liturgy for Presentation of the Lord in the Temple
We will celebrate this great feast with Vesperal Liturgy at 6pm on February 1.
Catholic Worker House Meal, February 18
Our quarterly opportunity to help feed our community through the Catholic Worker House is coming up on Saturday, February 18. Our menu will be: pulled pork, baked beans, coleslaw, dessert, whole fruit, milk and other beverages. A sign-up sheet is posted.
Annual Book Sale Fundraiser for Shelter House
This two-day sale will be hosted March 25 and 26 at 860 Quarry Road, Coralville from 10:30am-4:00pm both days. On February 19, they begin collecting donations of books, cds, dvds, and puzzles. Donation times will be every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10:00am-2:00pm, and Sundays from 2:00pm-4:00pm. They will need many volunteers to help sort books and help during sale days. Sign up to volunteer at: bit.ly/booksale2023.
Updated Food Pantry Needs
Attached, you will find a list of items that we are in need of in our food pantry. Monetary donations are also welcome. We have exceptional buying power through the HACAP food reservoir, so your dollars are able to purchase more this way, than you can at the grocery store. Also, please check expiration dates before donating food items. We can't put expired food on our shelves.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On February 5, we will hear the Parable of the Publican and Pharisee https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/3359 Luke 18:10-14
Food for Thought
"Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."
- I Timothy 2:1-4
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
"For the Life of the World" Book Group Schedule
7pm on Zoom on Thursdays https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
Feb. 2- Chapter 2
Feb. 9- Chapter 3
Feb. 16- Chapter 4
Feb. 23- Chapter 5
Mar. 9- Chapter 6
Mar. 16- Chapter 7
Mar. 23- Appendix 1
Apr. 6- Appendix 2
Sale on E-Book Orthodox Study Bible
Amazon is currently selling the Orthodox Study Bible in their Kindle format for only $3.99. If you purchase it through the Amazon Smile site and designate St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church as your charity, the church will get a percentage of the sale. https://smile.amazon.com/Orthodox-Study-Bible-eBook-Christianity-ebook/dp/B000XPNVFI?fbclid=IwAR0DpnqKOG9HwQIgVLnJAby_ltcAP0qhes3iTjReWP0gJB94ndvaIzGqaQQ
House Blessings
We are in the midst of the house blessing season. Between Theophany and the start of Lent, Fr. Ignatius wants to come to each of your homes to bless them and you. You can contact him to set up a date and time for him to come, and if he doesn't hear from you, he will contact you.
Link to Church's Google Calendar
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/calendar.html
Information on Prayers for the Departed, Flowers for the Departed and St. Raphael Prayer Chain
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/recurring-announcements.html
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, and Derek Ward in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
January 30, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
February 1, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Presentation of the Lord, 6:00pm
February 2, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ "For the Life of the World" book discussion on Zoom, 7:00pm https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
February 3, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
February 4, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
February 5, Sunday, Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Sunday School, 9:15am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
Newest Announcements .
Vesperal Liturgy for Presentation of the Lord in the Temple
We will celebrate this great feast with Vesperal Liturgy at 6pm on February 1.
Catholic Worker House Meal, February 18
Our quarterly opportunity to help feed our community through the Catholic Worker House is coming up on Saturday, February 18. Our menu will be: pulled pork, baked beans, coleslaw, dessert, whole fruit, milk and other beverages. A sign-up sheet is posted.
Annual Book Sale Fundraiser for Shelter House
This two-day sale will be hosted March 25 and 26 at 860 Quarry Road, Coralville from 10:30am-4:00pm both days. On February 19, they begin collecting donations of books, cds, dvds, and puzzles. Donation times will be every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10:00am-2:00pm, and Sundays from 2:00pm-4:00pm. They will need many volunteers to help sort books and help during sale days. Sign up to volunteer at: bit.ly/booksale2023.
Updated Food Pantry Needs
Attached, you will find a list of items that we are in need of in our food pantry. Monetary donations are also welcome. We have exceptional buying power through the HACAP food reservoir, so your dollars are able to purchase more this way, than you can at the grocery store. Also, please check expiration dates before donating food items. We can't put expired food on our shelves.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On February 5, we will hear the Parable of the Publican and Pharisee https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/3359 Luke 18:10-14
Food for Thought
"Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."
- I Timothy 2:1-4
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
"For the Life of the World" Book Group Schedule
7pm on Zoom on Thursdays https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
Feb. 2- Chapter 2
Feb. 9- Chapter 3
Feb. 16- Chapter 4
Feb. 23- Chapter 5
Mar. 9- Chapter 6
Mar. 16- Chapter 7
Mar. 23- Appendix 1
Apr. 6- Appendix 2
Sale on E-Book Orthodox Study Bible
Amazon is currently selling the Orthodox Study Bible in their Kindle format for only $3.99. If you purchase it through the Amazon Smile site and designate St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church as your charity, the church will get a percentage of the sale. https://smile.amazon.com/Orthodox-Study-Bible-eBook-Christianity-ebook/dp/B000XPNVFI?fbclid=IwAR0DpnqKOG9HwQIgVLnJAby_ltcAP0qhes3iTjReWP0gJB94ndvaIzGqaQQ
House Blessings
We are in the midst of the house blessing season. Between Theophany and the start of Lent, Fr. Ignatius wants to come to each of your homes to bless them and you. You can contact him to set up a date and time for him to come, and if he doesn't hear from you, he will contact you.
Link to Church's Google Calendar
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/calendar.html
Information on Prayers for the Departed, Flowers for the Departed and St. Raphael Prayer Chain
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/recurring-announcements.html
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, and Derek Ward in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Sunday January 22, 2023- 32nd Sunday after Pentecost
Upcoming Services and Events
January 21, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting on Zoom, 2:00pm
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 22, Sunday- 32nd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Sunday School, 9:15am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
January 23, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 25, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 6:30pm
January 26, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina, 6:00pm
January 27, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 28, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 29, Sunday, 32nd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Sunday School, 9:15am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
Newest Announcements .
Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina
Join us at 6:00pm on January 26 for Vesperal Liturgy to commemorate St. Nina of Georgia.
House Blessings
The season of house blessings is now here. Between Theophany and the start of Lent, Fr. Ignatius wants to come to each of your homes to bless them and you. You can contact him to set up a date and time for him to come, and if he doesn't hear from you, he will contact you.
Pastoral Letter from Patriarchal Vicar Metropolitan Antonios
This letter summarizes the process to choose a new metropolitan. In addition, it was just announced yesterday that the Holy Synod of Antioch will convene on February 22 to consider the three candidates nominated.
Sale on E-Book Orthodox Study Bible
Amazon is currently selling the Orthodox Study Bible in their Kindle format for only $3.99. If you purchase it through the Amazon Smile site and designate St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church as your charity, the church will get a percentage of the sale. https://smile.amazon.com/Orthodox-Study-Bible-eBook-Christianity-ebook/dp/B000XPNVFI?fbclid=IwAR0DpnqKOG9HwQIgVLnJAby_ltcAP0qhes3iTjReWP0gJB94ndvaIzGqaQQ
Updated Food Pantry Needs
Attached, you will find a list of items that we are in need of in our food pantry. Monetary donations are also welcome. We have exceptional buying power through the HACAP food reservoir, so your dollars are able to purchase more this way, than you can at the grocery store. Also, please check expiration dates before donating food items. We can't put expired food on our shelves.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On January 29, we will hear the story of Christ's healing of the demon-possessed daughter of the Canaanite woman. Matthew 15:21-28 https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/3352
Food for Thought
"Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ."
Galatians 6:2
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
"For the Life of the World" Book Group Schedule
7pm on Zoom on Thursdays https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
Jan. 19- Preface and Chapter 1
Feb. 2- Chapter 2
Feb. 9- Chapter 3
Feb. 16- Chapter 4
Feb. 23- Chapter 5
Mar. 9- Chapter 6
Mar. 16- Chapter 7
Mar. 23- Appendix 1
Apr. 6- Appendix 2
Link to Church's Google Calendar
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/calendar.html
Information on Prayers for the Departed, Flowers for the Departed and St. Raphael Prayer Chain
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/recurring-announcements.html
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, and Derek Ward in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
January 21, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting on Zoom, 2:00pm
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 22, Sunday- 32nd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Sunday School, 9:15am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
January 23, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 25, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 6:30pm
January 26, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina, 6:00pm
January 27, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 28, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 29, Sunday, 32nd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Sunday School, 9:15am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
Newest Announcements .
Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina
Join us at 6:00pm on January 26 for Vesperal Liturgy to commemorate St. Nina of Georgia.
House Blessings
The season of house blessings is now here. Between Theophany and the start of Lent, Fr. Ignatius wants to come to each of your homes to bless them and you. You can contact him to set up a date and time for him to come, and if he doesn't hear from you, he will contact you.
Pastoral Letter from Patriarchal Vicar Metropolitan Antonios
This letter summarizes the process to choose a new metropolitan. In addition, it was just announced yesterday that the Holy Synod of Antioch will convene on February 22 to consider the three candidates nominated.
Sale on E-Book Orthodox Study Bible
Amazon is currently selling the Orthodox Study Bible in their Kindle format for only $3.99. If you purchase it through the Amazon Smile site and designate St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church as your charity, the church will get a percentage of the sale. https://smile.amazon.com/Orthodox-Study-Bible-eBook-Christianity-ebook/dp/B000XPNVFI?fbclid=IwAR0DpnqKOG9HwQIgVLnJAby_ltcAP0qhes3iTjReWP0gJB94ndvaIzGqaQQ
Updated Food Pantry Needs
Attached, you will find a list of items that we are in need of in our food pantry. Monetary donations are also welcome. We have exceptional buying power through the HACAP food reservoir, so your dollars are able to purchase more this way, than you can at the grocery store. Also, please check expiration dates before donating food items. We can't put expired food on our shelves.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On January 29, we will hear the story of Christ's healing of the demon-possessed daughter of the Canaanite woman. Matthew 15:21-28 https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/3352
Food for Thought
"Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ."
Galatians 6:2
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
"For the Life of the World" Book Group Schedule
7pm on Zoom on Thursdays https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
Jan. 19- Preface and Chapter 1
Feb. 2- Chapter 2
Feb. 9- Chapter 3
Feb. 16- Chapter 4
Feb. 23- Chapter 5
Mar. 9- Chapter 6
Mar. 16- Chapter 7
Mar. 23- Appendix 1
Apr. 6- Appendix 2
Link to Church's Google Calendar
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/calendar.html
Information on Prayers for the Departed, Flowers for the Departed and St. Raphael Prayer Chain
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/recurring-announcements.html
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, and Derek Ward in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Sunday January 15, 2023- 29th Sunday after Pentecost
Upcoming Services and Events
January 14, Saturday
+ Outdoor Blessing of Water, 4:00pm at Thomas Park in Marion (343 Marion Blvd.)
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids (501 A Ave. NE)
January 15, Sunday- 29th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Sunday School, 9:15am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
January 16, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 18, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 6:30pm
January 19, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ For the Life of the World book discussion, 7:00pm on Zoom https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
January 20, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 21, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:00pm on Zoom
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 22, Sunday, 32nd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Sunday School, 9:15am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
Newest Announcements .
No Vespers at St. Raphael on January 14
All are invited to St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Cedar Rapids (501 A Ave. NE) for vespers at 5pm.
New Location!- Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water
Our brothers and sisters in Christ at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids will be hosting. The Blessing of Water service will take place on the bridge spanning Indian Creek in Thomas Park in Marion (343 Marion Blvd.) at 4pm on Saturday, January 14, with vespers to follow at St. John's at 5pm.
House Blessings
The season of house blessings is now here. Between Theophany and the start of Lent, Fr. Ignatius wants to come to each of your homes to bless them and you. You can contact him to set up a date and time for him to come, and if he doesn't hear from you, he will contact you.
For the Life of the World Book Discussion
We will resume with a new book, Fr. Alexander Schmemann's For the Life of the World, beginning on January 19 at 7pm on Zoom. Copies of the book are available to purchase in the church bookstore for $20. E-book and audiobook versions are also available online.
Parish Council Meeting Agenda
Saturday, January 21, 2023, 2:00-4:00 pm by Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82098230472?pwd=VWJnd21IdHluMWlBZitRWTJXR3FYZz09
Next meeting will be February 18, 2023 2-4pm via Zoom.
Updated Food Pantry Needs
Attached, you will find a list of items that we are in need of in our food pantry. Monetary donations are also welcome. We have exceptional buying power through the HACAP food reservoir, so your dollars are able to purchase more this way, than you can at the grocery store. Also, please check expiration dates before donating food items. We can't put expired food on our shelves.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On January 22, we will hear the story of the tax collector Zacchaeus, his encounter with Jesus his and subsequent repentance. https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/3345 Luke 19:1-10
Food for Thought
“Realize how much your Creator has honored you above all other creatures. He did not make the heavens in His image, nor the moon, the sun, the beauty of the stars or anything else which surpasses understanding. You alone are a reflection of eternal beauty, a receptacle of happiness, an image of the true light. And, if you look to Him, you will become what He is, imitating Him who shines within you, whose glory is reflected in your purity. Nothing in the entire creation can equal your grandeur. All the heavens can fit into the palm of the hand of God . . . Although He is so great that He can hold all creation in His palm, you can wholly embrace Him. He dwells in you."
- St. Gregory of Nyssa, (Kyriaki FitzGerald, PERSONS IN COMMUNION, p 72)
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Return Your Pledge Packets ASAP
As part of the stewardship that we are all called to manifest in our lives, St. Raphael Church asks its members and friends to prayerfully consider a financial pledge to help fund the budget of our precious parish. It is very important that the Parish Council know how much money they can expect will be given to the church in the upcoming year, so they can appropriately plan. To fully fund all that the Lord is calling us to do, we need about $13,500 per month or $162,000 per year. Currently we have 60% of the budget funded. Please return your filled-in pledge packet to church or contact our treasurer Becky and communicate to her your pledge amount as soon as possible. You can also access the pledge form online at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/donate.html and there are also extra print copies available in the church narthex.
Link to Church's Google Calendar
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/calendar.html
Information on Prayers for the Departed, Flowers for the Departed and St. Raphael Prayer Chain
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/recurring-announcements.html
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, and Derek Ward in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
January 14, Saturday
+ Outdoor Blessing of Water, 4:00pm at Thomas Park in Marion (343 Marion Blvd.)
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids (501 A Ave. NE)
January 15, Sunday- 29th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Sunday School, 9:15am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
January 16, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 18, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 6:30pm
January 19, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ For the Life of the World book discussion, 7:00pm on Zoom https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
January 20, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 21, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:00pm on Zoom
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 22, Sunday, 32nd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Sunday School, 9:15am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
Newest Announcements .
No Vespers at St. Raphael on January 14
All are invited to St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Cedar Rapids (501 A Ave. NE) for vespers at 5pm.
New Location!- Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water
Our brothers and sisters in Christ at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids will be hosting. The Blessing of Water service will take place on the bridge spanning Indian Creek in Thomas Park in Marion (343 Marion Blvd.) at 4pm on Saturday, January 14, with vespers to follow at St. John's at 5pm.
House Blessings
The season of house blessings is now here. Between Theophany and the start of Lent, Fr. Ignatius wants to come to each of your homes to bless them and you. You can contact him to set up a date and time for him to come, and if he doesn't hear from you, he will contact you.
For the Life of the World Book Discussion
We will resume with a new book, Fr. Alexander Schmemann's For the Life of the World, beginning on January 19 at 7pm on Zoom. Copies of the book are available to purchase in the church bookstore for $20. E-book and audiobook versions are also available online.
Parish Council Meeting Agenda
Saturday, January 21, 2023, 2:00-4:00 pm by Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82098230472?pwd=VWJnd21IdHluMWlBZitRWTJXR3FYZz09
- Call to order and opening prayer
- Reading from Father
- Review of parish constitution; parish council roles and expectations
- Assigning of council roles for 2023
- President’s Report
- Parish Survey - opportunity to participate in Effective Parish Assessment in fall 2023
- Review of vision and mission statements. Goal setting for 2023 and beyond.
- Treasurer’s report
- Charitable giving - list of organizations
- Ministry Reports
- Grant updates / Food pantry
- Stewardship committee updatesGratitude
- Old business
- Utility room sink - needs a threaded faucet
- Replacement candelabra
- Review of action items and assignees
- Gratitude and “good of the parish” comments
- Adjourn
Next meeting will be February 18, 2023 2-4pm via Zoom.
Updated Food Pantry Needs
Attached, you will find a list of items that we are in need of in our food pantry. Monetary donations are also welcome. We have exceptional buying power through the HACAP food reservoir, so your dollars are able to purchase more this way, than you can at the grocery store. Also, please check expiration dates before donating food items. We can't put expired food on our shelves.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On January 22, we will hear the story of the tax collector Zacchaeus, his encounter with Jesus his and subsequent repentance. https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/3345 Luke 19:1-10
Food for Thought
“Realize how much your Creator has honored you above all other creatures. He did not make the heavens in His image, nor the moon, the sun, the beauty of the stars or anything else which surpasses understanding. You alone are a reflection of eternal beauty, a receptacle of happiness, an image of the true light. And, if you look to Him, you will become what He is, imitating Him who shines within you, whose glory is reflected in your purity. Nothing in the entire creation can equal your grandeur. All the heavens can fit into the palm of the hand of God . . . Although He is so great that He can hold all creation in His palm, you can wholly embrace Him. He dwells in you."
- St. Gregory of Nyssa, (Kyriaki FitzGerald, PERSONS IN COMMUNION, p 72)
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Return Your Pledge Packets ASAP
As part of the stewardship that we are all called to manifest in our lives, St. Raphael Church asks its members and friends to prayerfully consider a financial pledge to help fund the budget of our precious parish. It is very important that the Parish Council know how much money they can expect will be given to the church in the upcoming year, so they can appropriately plan. To fully fund all that the Lord is calling us to do, we need about $13,500 per month or $162,000 per year. Currently we have 60% of the budget funded. Please return your filled-in pledge packet to church or contact our treasurer Becky and communicate to her your pledge amount as soon as possible. You can also access the pledge form online at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/donate.html and there are also extra print copies available in the church narthex.
Link to Church's Google Calendar
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/calendar.html
Information on Prayers for the Departed, Flowers for the Departed and St. Raphael Prayer Chain
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/recurring-announcements.html
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, and Derek Ward in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Sunday January 8, 2023- Sunday after Theophany
Upcoming Services and Events
January 7, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 8, Sunday- Sunday after Theophany
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
January 9, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 11, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 6:30pm
January 14, Saturday
+ Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water in Cedar Rapids, 4:00pm
+ Great Vespers at St. John's, 5:00pm
January 15, Sunday, 29th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by fellowship hour
Newest Announcements .
No Vespers at St. Raphael on January 14
All are invited to St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Cedar Rapids (501 A Ave. NE) for vespers at 5pm.
Fr. Ignatius is Traveling January 12-13
Fr. Ignatius will be attending the special convention to nominate candidates for metropolitan and so there will be no office hours or hours prayers on January 12 and 13.
Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water
Our brothers and sisters in Christ at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids will be hosting. The Blessing of Water service will take place on the 1st Ave. bridge in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4pm on Saturday, January 14, with vespers to follow at St. John's at 5pm.
House Blessings
The season of house blessings is now here. Between Theophany and the start of Lent, Fr. Ignatius wants to come to each of your homes to bless them and you. You can contact him to set up a date and time for him to come, and if he doesn't hear from you, he will contact you.
Sunday School Resumes
Following a break for Nativity and the holiday season, Sunday School classes for the two younger classes resume on Sunday, January 15. The high school class will resume on January 22.
Thursday Night Book Group News
We are breaking for the holiday season and will resume with a new book, Fr. Alexander Schmemann's For the Life of the World, beginning on January 19 at 7pm on Zoom. Copies of the book are available to purchase in the church bookstore for $20. E-book and audiobook versions are also available online.
Hannah Valentine Interviewed on Orthodox Christian Network
Hannah was interviewed by Fr. Chris Metropulos of Orthodox Christian Network about her mission work in Albania. https://fb.watch/hU3atDIWzh/
Updated Food Pantry Needs
Attached, you will find a list of items that we are in need of in our food pantry. Monetary donations are also welcome. We have exceptional buying power through the HACAP food reservoir, so your dollars are able to purchase more this way, than you can at the grocery store. Also, please check expiration dates before donating food items. We can't put expired food on our shelves.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On January 15, we will hear the story of the ten lepers healed by Jesus. https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/3338 Luke 17:12-19
Food for Thought
Ye faithful, let us praise the greatness of God’s dispensation toward us. For, becoming man on account of our transgressions, he who alone is clean and undefiled was cleansed in Jordan that we might be made clean, sanctifying us and the waters and breaking the heads of the dragons in the water. Let us then draw water in gladness, O brethren; for upon those who draw with faith, the grace of the Spirit is invisibly bestowed by Christ, the God and Savior of our souls.
- Ideomelon of Great Sanctification of Water
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
2023 Calendars Available
Annual printed calendars showing daily Scripture readings and saints, major feast days and fasting days and seasons are now available in the narthex.
Return Your Pledge Packets ASAP
As part of the stewardship that we are all called to manifest in our lives, St. Raphael Church asks its members and friends to prayerfully consider a financial pledge to help fund the budget of our precious parish. It is very important that the Parish Council know how much money they can expect will be given to the church in the upcoming year, so they can appropriately plan. To fully fund all that the Lord is calling us to do, we need about $13,500 per month or $162,000 per year. Currently we have 58% of the budget funded. Please return your filled-in pledge packet to church or contact our treasurer Becky and communicate to her your pledge amount as soon as possible. You can also access the pledge form online at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/donate.html and there are also extra print copies available in the church narthex.
Link to Church's Google Calendar
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/calendar.html
Download the Church Calendar to Your Digital Calendar
An iCal link for the Church's calendar is now available here and on the calendar page on our website. Downloading this file will allow you to add the church's calendar to your Outlook, Google Calendar, iCalendar, or other electronic calendaring system, so you can more easily keep track of service times, church events, and Father's office hours.
Information on Prayers for the Departed, Flowers for the Departed and St. Raphael Prayer Chain
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/recurring-announcements.html
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, and Derek Ward in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
January 7, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 8, Sunday- Sunday after Theophany
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
January 9, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 11, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 6:30pm
January 14, Saturday
+ Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water in Cedar Rapids, 4:00pm
+ Great Vespers at St. John's, 5:00pm
January 15, Sunday, 29th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by fellowship hour
Newest Announcements .
No Vespers at St. Raphael on January 14
All are invited to St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Cedar Rapids (501 A Ave. NE) for vespers at 5pm.
Fr. Ignatius is Traveling January 12-13
Fr. Ignatius will be attending the special convention to nominate candidates for metropolitan and so there will be no office hours or hours prayers on January 12 and 13.
Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water
Our brothers and sisters in Christ at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids will be hosting. The Blessing of Water service will take place on the 1st Ave. bridge in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4pm on Saturday, January 14, with vespers to follow at St. John's at 5pm.
House Blessings
The season of house blessings is now here. Between Theophany and the start of Lent, Fr. Ignatius wants to come to each of your homes to bless them and you. You can contact him to set up a date and time for him to come, and if he doesn't hear from you, he will contact you.
Sunday School Resumes
Following a break for Nativity and the holiday season, Sunday School classes for the two younger classes resume on Sunday, January 15. The high school class will resume on January 22.
Thursday Night Book Group News
We are breaking for the holiday season and will resume with a new book, Fr. Alexander Schmemann's For the Life of the World, beginning on January 19 at 7pm on Zoom. Copies of the book are available to purchase in the church bookstore for $20. E-book and audiobook versions are also available online.
Hannah Valentine Interviewed on Orthodox Christian Network
Hannah was interviewed by Fr. Chris Metropulos of Orthodox Christian Network about her mission work in Albania. https://fb.watch/hU3atDIWzh/
Updated Food Pantry Needs
Attached, you will find a list of items that we are in need of in our food pantry. Monetary donations are also welcome. We have exceptional buying power through the HACAP food reservoir, so your dollars are able to purchase more this way, than you can at the grocery store. Also, please check expiration dates before donating food items. We can't put expired food on our shelves.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On January 15, we will hear the story of the ten lepers healed by Jesus. https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/3338 Luke 17:12-19
Food for Thought
Ye faithful, let us praise the greatness of God’s dispensation toward us. For, becoming man on account of our transgressions, he who alone is clean and undefiled was cleansed in Jordan that we might be made clean, sanctifying us and the waters and breaking the heads of the dragons in the water. Let us then draw water in gladness, O brethren; for upon those who draw with faith, the grace of the Spirit is invisibly bestowed by Christ, the God and Savior of our souls.
- Ideomelon of Great Sanctification of Water
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
2023 Calendars Available
Annual printed calendars showing daily Scripture readings and saints, major feast days and fasting days and seasons are now available in the narthex.
Return Your Pledge Packets ASAP
As part of the stewardship that we are all called to manifest in our lives, St. Raphael Church asks its members and friends to prayerfully consider a financial pledge to help fund the budget of our precious parish. It is very important that the Parish Council know how much money they can expect will be given to the church in the upcoming year, so they can appropriately plan. To fully fund all that the Lord is calling us to do, we need about $13,500 per month or $162,000 per year. Currently we have 58% of the budget funded. Please return your filled-in pledge packet to church or contact our treasurer Becky and communicate to her your pledge amount as soon as possible. You can also access the pledge form online at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/donate.html and there are also extra print copies available in the church narthex.
Link to Church's Google Calendar
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/calendar.html
Download the Church Calendar to Your Digital Calendar
An iCal link for the Church's calendar is now available here and on the calendar page on our website. Downloading this file will allow you to add the church's calendar to your Outlook, Google Calendar, iCalendar, or other electronic calendaring system, so you can more easily keep track of service times, church events, and Father's office hours.
Information on Prayers for the Departed, Flowers for the Departed and St. Raphael Prayer Chain
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/recurring-announcements.html
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, and Derek Ward in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Sunday January 1, 2023- The Circumcision and Naming of the Lord, and St. Basil the Great
Upcoming Services and Events
December 31, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 1, Sunday- The Circumcision and Naming of the Lord, and St. Basil the Great
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
January 4, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 6:30pm
January 5, Thursday
+ Royal Hours for Theophany, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ Festal Matins and Liturgy for the Theophany of the Lord, with Blessing of Water service, 5:00pm
January 6, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 7, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 8, Sunday, Sunday after Theophany
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by fellowship hour
Newest Announcements .
No Office Hours on January 2
Father will not be in the office on Monday, January 2 for office hours or 9th Hour Prayers.
Feasting after Fasting
In celebration of the Lord's Nativity, there is no fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays, until the Eve of Theophany, January 5. Enjoy!
Theophany Services
We begin to celebrate the Theophany of our Lord with Royal Hours at 9am on Thursday, January 5. At 5pm on the same day, we will begin Matins with Divine Liturgy and the (Indoor) Blessing of Water service to follow.
Holy Bread Bakers
Since we are starting a new year, we have a new sign-up sheet posted for holy bread baking. We are in need of a volunteer for January 15 and for many Sundays beyond. Please consider signing up for one or more Sundays soon.
Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water
Our brothers and sisters in Christ at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids will be hosting. The Blessing of Water service will take place on the 1st Ave. bridge in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4pm on Saturday, January 14, with vespers to follow at St. John's at 5pm.
House Blessings
The season of house blessings is approaching. Between Theophany and the start of Lent, Fr. Ignatius wants to come to each of your homes to bless them and you. You can contact him to set up a date and time for him to come, and if he doesn't hear from you, he will contact you.
Thursday Night Book Group News
We are breaking for the holiday season and will resume with a new book, Fr. Alexander Schmemann's For the Life of the World, beginning on January 19 at 7pm on Zoom. Copies of the book are available to purchase in the church bookstore for $20. E-book and audiobook versions are also available online.
Return Your Pledge Packets ASAP
As part of the stewardship that we are all called to manifest in our lives, St. Raphael Church asks its members and friends to prayerfully consider a financial pledge to help fund the budget of our precious parish. It is very important that the Parish Council know how much money they can expect will be given to the church in the upcoming year, so they can appropriately plan. To fully fund all that the Lord is calling us to do, we need about $13,500 per month or $162,000 per year. Currently we have 58% of the budget funded. Please return your filled-in pledge packet to church or contact our treasurer Becky and communicate to her your pledge amount as soon as possible. You can also access the pledge form online at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/donate.html and there are also extra print copies available in the church narthex.
Updated Food Pantry Needs
Attached, you will find a list of items that we are in need of in our food pantry. Monetary donations are also welcome. We have exceptional buying power through the HACAP food reservoir, so your dollars are able to purchase more this way, than you can at the grocery store. Also, please check expiration dates before donating food items. We can't put expired food on our shelves.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On January 8, we will hear mention of St. John the Forerunner's arrest and the subsequent withdrawal of Jesus to Galilee and a corresponding prophetic utterance from Isaiah. https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/3331 Matthew 4:12-17
Food for Thought
"Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have that no one may take your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God."
Revelation 3:11-12
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Sunday School Break
Our two younger Sunday School classes will be off on December 25, January 1 and January 8, resuming on January 15. Our high school class will take an additional week off and resume on January 22.
Olive Oil Donations Accepted
We are currently low on olive oil, which we use for our oil lamps. We are accepting donations of oil. Regular grade (non-extra virgin) burns best. If possible please turn in a receipt with any oil donated. We are trying to keep track of the annual cost of the oil we use.
2023 Calendars Now Available
Annual printed calendars showing daily Scripture readings and saints, major feast days and fasting days and seasons are now available in the narthex.
Special Convention to Nominate Candidate for Metropolitan
Fr. Ignatius will be attending a Special Convention to be held in Dallas, TX on January 13, with the purpose of voting to nominate candidates to become our next metropolitan. Candidate names will then be forwarded to the Holy Synod of Antioch which will choose one.
Link to Church's Google Calendar
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/calendar.html
Download the Church Calendar to Your Digital Calendar
An iCal link for the Church's calendar is now available here and on the calendar page on our website. Downloading this file will allow you to add the church's calendar to your Outlook, Google Calendar, iCalendar, or other electronic calendaring system, so you can more easily keep track of service times, church events, and Father's office hours.
Information on Prayers for the Departed, Flowers for the Departed and St. Raphael Prayer Chain
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/recurring-announcements.html
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, and Derek Ward in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
December 31, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 1, Sunday- The Circumcision and Naming of the Lord, and St. Basil the Great
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by Fellowship Hour
January 4, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 6:30pm
January 5, Thursday
+ Royal Hours for Theophany, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ Festal Matins and Liturgy for the Theophany of the Lord, with Blessing of Water service, 5:00pm
January 6, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 7, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 8, Sunday, Sunday after Theophany
+ Matins, 8:45am
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00am, followed by fellowship hour
Newest Announcements .
No Office Hours on January 2
Father will not be in the office on Monday, January 2 for office hours or 9th Hour Prayers.
Feasting after Fasting
In celebration of the Lord's Nativity, there is no fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays, until the Eve of Theophany, January 5. Enjoy!
Theophany Services
We begin to celebrate the Theophany of our Lord with Royal Hours at 9am on Thursday, January 5. At 5pm on the same day, we will begin Matins with Divine Liturgy and the (Indoor) Blessing of Water service to follow.
Holy Bread Bakers
Since we are starting a new year, we have a new sign-up sheet posted for holy bread baking. We are in need of a volunteer for January 15 and for many Sundays beyond. Please consider signing up for one or more Sundays soon.
Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water
Our brothers and sisters in Christ at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids will be hosting. The Blessing of Water service will take place on the 1st Ave. bridge in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4pm on Saturday, January 14, with vespers to follow at St. John's at 5pm.
House Blessings
The season of house blessings is approaching. Between Theophany and the start of Lent, Fr. Ignatius wants to come to each of your homes to bless them and you. You can contact him to set up a date and time for him to come, and if he doesn't hear from you, he will contact you.
Thursday Night Book Group News
We are breaking for the holiday season and will resume with a new book, Fr. Alexander Schmemann's For the Life of the World, beginning on January 19 at 7pm on Zoom. Copies of the book are available to purchase in the church bookstore for $20. E-book and audiobook versions are also available online.
Return Your Pledge Packets ASAP
As part of the stewardship that we are all called to manifest in our lives, St. Raphael Church asks its members and friends to prayerfully consider a financial pledge to help fund the budget of our precious parish. It is very important that the Parish Council know how much money they can expect will be given to the church in the upcoming year, so they can appropriately plan. To fully fund all that the Lord is calling us to do, we need about $13,500 per month or $162,000 per year. Currently we have 58% of the budget funded. Please return your filled-in pledge packet to church or contact our treasurer Becky and communicate to her your pledge amount as soon as possible. You can also access the pledge form online at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/donate.html and there are also extra print copies available in the church narthex.
Updated Food Pantry Needs
Attached, you will find a list of items that we are in need of in our food pantry. Monetary donations are also welcome. We have exceptional buying power through the HACAP food reservoir, so your dollars are able to purchase more this way, than you can at the grocery store. Also, please check expiration dates before donating food items. We can't put expired food on our shelves.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On January 8, we will hear mention of St. John the Forerunner's arrest and the subsequent withdrawal of Jesus to Galilee and a corresponding prophetic utterance from Isaiah. https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/3331 Matthew 4:12-17
Food for Thought
"Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have that no one may take your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God."
Revelation 3:11-12
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Sunday School Break
Our two younger Sunday School classes will be off on December 25, January 1 and January 8, resuming on January 15. Our high school class will take an additional week off and resume on January 22.
Olive Oil Donations Accepted
We are currently low on olive oil, which we use for our oil lamps. We are accepting donations of oil. Regular grade (non-extra virgin) burns best. If possible please turn in a receipt with any oil donated. We are trying to keep track of the annual cost of the oil we use.
2023 Calendars Now Available
Annual printed calendars showing daily Scripture readings and saints, major feast days and fasting days and seasons are now available in the narthex.
Special Convention to Nominate Candidate for Metropolitan
Fr. Ignatius will be attending a Special Convention to be held in Dallas, TX on January 13, with the purpose of voting to nominate candidates to become our next metropolitan. Candidate names will then be forwarded to the Holy Synod of Antioch which will choose one.
Link to Church's Google Calendar
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/calendar.html
Download the Church Calendar to Your Digital Calendar
An iCal link for the Church's calendar is now available here and on the calendar page on our website. Downloading this file will allow you to add the church's calendar to your Outlook, Google Calendar, iCalendar, or other electronic calendaring system, so you can more easily keep track of service times, church events, and Father's office hours.
Information on Prayers for the Departed, Flowers for the Departed and St. Raphael Prayer Chain
https://www.raphaelchurch.org/recurring-announcements.html
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, and Derek Ward in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.