Sunday January 24, 2020, St. Xenia of St. Petersburg
Upcoming Services and Events
January 24, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
January 26, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina, 6:00PM (live streamed on Facebook page)
January 27, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 28, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Book/Fellowship Group, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 29, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:00PM
January 30, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM (live streamed to Facebook page)
January 31, Sunday (Zacchaeus Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Food, Faith and Fasting Online Workshop
The Antiochian Eastern Diocese Ministry Council is sponsoring a 5-week online workshop, led by Rita Madden, titled "Food, Faith and Fasting: A Sacred Journey To Better Health." Rita Madden, MPH, RDN, is the author of Food Faith & Fasting, host of the podcast "Food, Faith & Fasting" on Ancient Faith Radio, and is the Nutrition Director for Mediterranean Wellness, LLC.
Each workshop will include live instructional sessions followed by an opportunity for Q&A with Rita. Session topics are:
How to Invite Someone to Church Webinar
Did you know that 82% of people who are unchurched say they are at least somewhat likely to attend church if invited by someone they know? The Antiochian Department of Missions and Evangelism is sponsoring a free webinar titled "How to Invite Someone to Church" on Sunday, January 24 from 7-8pm CST. Go to https://www.missionsandevangelism.com/ to register for bonus material. Webinar will be broadcast at https://www.facebook.com/antiochianmissions
Bishop Anthony's Visit
We are honored to have His Grace Bishop Anthony visit with us the weekend of February 27-28. A schedule of services and events will be released in the next few weeks. Please keep your schedule open, so as to be available to be with our bishop when he comes.
Wednesday Night Participatory Services
As we were doing during the Nativity Fast with the paraklesis service over Zoom, we are doing again with akathists on Wednesday nights at 7:00PM. If you would like to participate by reading or chanting a part (from your home, on Zoom) let Fr. Ignatius know so he can assign you a part and make sure you have the text. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2021, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, April, July and October- January 17, April 18, July 18 and October 17. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Sign-up to Attend Services
We have increased the allowable attendance per service to 15 until at least the end of the month. To sign-up, click on the link and enter your name.
January 23, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-23
January 24, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-24
January 26, 6pm- Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina - http://bit.ly/StNina1-26
January 30, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-30
January 31, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-31
The Face of God: The Orthodox Church on Climate Change
This newly released one hour documentary is well made and is very engaging and beautiful. It is worth your time and consideration. https://vimeo.com/498184186
Fellowship of St. Moses the Black Women's Prayer Group
"For many years our sisters in the Lord within the Fellowship have been asking what avenues of ministry are open to them as women in the Church. Responding to that question and the urgent need for spiritual upliftment in these times, Mother Katherine and the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black are starting a Women’s Prayer Group. This will provide a place for them to voice their concerns in ways that seek or provide solace for their burdens through prayers and the love of Christ without political “noise.” It is an opportunity to bring the grace of our Lord to bear on situations through collective, intercessory prayer.
The group will function in two areas: a private Facebook group and an email list. The Facebook group will allow for members to share prayer requests and updates; the email list will share these and any other submissions periodically, as a way for women to participate outside of Facebook.
The group is for Orthodox women or catechumens who are in support of the mission of the Fellowship. It is not a Chapter, but another way to connect. For more information and to join, visit: http://mosestheblack.org/join/womens-prayer-group/
Hy-Vee Reusable Bag Program to Benefit St. Raphael Food Pantry
If, in February, you buy a $2.50 reusable red bag at the Hy-Vee Drugstore 310 North 1st Avenue, Iowa City, the St. Raphael Food Pantry will receive a $1 donation. Bags will be located in the entryway at the front of the store.
House Blessing Season is Here
It is time for your homes to be blessed. This year, given the pandemic, Fr. Ignatius will be making a few changes to his practice of blessing your homes. If you desire, he will come in and bless your home. The service is short, 10-15 minutes long. He will not be staying to socialize or to eat, but will leave promptly after the service. He will wear a mask and he asks that all people in the home wear masks also. If you would prefer, he can make a scheduled stop to your front porch and say the blessing prayers from there, before leaving. Fr. Ignatius will start contacting people to schedule visits following the New Year.
Thursday Night Book/Fellowship Group
We have resumed. For the rest of January and through all of February, we will be considering race and our Orthodox faith by reading an article on African American experience with icons, and also Mother Katherine Weston's book Race, Identity and Reconciliation, published by the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black. Once the Lenten Triodion starts, we will be reading and discussing Everyday Saints and Other Stories by Archimandrite (now Metropolitan) Tikhon Shevkunov. If you want to purchase either or both books, let Fr. Ignatius or Lori know.
Virtual Coffee Hour
We must continue to avoid socializing in the church building. So our coffee hours will continue to be held online. From 1PM-2:15PM on Sundays, all those interested are invited to use Zoom and go to this link to join in on the virtual coffee hour. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
St. Raphael Food Pantry Announcement
Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. And he sought to see Who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Jesus, for He was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today.” So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully. And when they saw it they all murmured, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham; for the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:1-10)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, Derek Ward and Daniel Hettrick in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Do You Have a Prayer Request?
Please give it to Fr. Ignatius and he will distribute it by email to all those on the Prayer Chain. If you wish to join the Prayer Chain, please let Fr. Ignatius know.
Remember Your Departed Loved Ones With Flowers
Would you like to memorialize your departed loved ones with a bouquet of flowers to be placed in the church on the weekend of your choice? Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, mention it to Fr. Ignatius, give $25 to the church, clearly marking it for "Memorial Flowers" and your loved one(s) will be mentioned during the Great Entrance prayers and in the weekly bulletin. If your departed loved ones are Orthodox, and you would like Trisagion Prayers for the Departed to be offered at the end of Liturgy, you can indicate that on the sign-up sheet as well.
Keep Praying for Kidnapped Orthodox Bishops in Syria
Since April 22, 2013, the Orthodox Metropolitan of Aleppo, Metropolitan Paul, and the Syriac Metropolitan of Aleppo, Youhanna, have been in captivity and have not been heard from. Please pray for their well being and release and also pray for their captors as well.
Food for Thought
"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. In this, the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him."
I John 4:7-9
January 24, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
January 26, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina, 6:00PM (live streamed on Facebook page)
January 27, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 28, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Book/Fellowship Group, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 29, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:00PM
January 30, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM (live streamed to Facebook page)
January 31, Sunday (Zacchaeus Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Food, Faith and Fasting Online Workshop
The Antiochian Eastern Diocese Ministry Council is sponsoring a 5-week online workshop, led by Rita Madden, titled "Food, Faith and Fasting: A Sacred Journey To Better Health." Rita Madden, MPH, RDN, is the author of Food Faith & Fasting, host of the podcast "Food, Faith & Fasting" on Ancient Faith Radio, and is the Nutrition Director for Mediterranean Wellness, LLC.
Each workshop will include live instructional sessions followed by an opportunity for Q&A with Rita. Session topics are:
- January 25, 2021, 7 PM EST | Part 2: Eating in Balance
- February 1, 2021, 7 PM EST | Part 3: The Blessing of Fasting
- February 8, 2021, 7 PM EST | Part 4: Examining Exercise
- February 15, 2021, 7 PM EST | Part 5: Stomping Out Stress
How to Invite Someone to Church Webinar
Did you know that 82% of people who are unchurched say they are at least somewhat likely to attend church if invited by someone they know? The Antiochian Department of Missions and Evangelism is sponsoring a free webinar titled "How to Invite Someone to Church" on Sunday, January 24 from 7-8pm CST. Go to https://www.missionsandevangelism.com/ to register for bonus material. Webinar will be broadcast at https://www.facebook.com/antiochianmissions
Bishop Anthony's Visit
We are honored to have His Grace Bishop Anthony visit with us the weekend of February 27-28. A schedule of services and events will be released in the next few weeks. Please keep your schedule open, so as to be available to be with our bishop when he comes.
Wednesday Night Participatory Services
As we were doing during the Nativity Fast with the paraklesis service over Zoom, we are doing again with akathists on Wednesday nights at 7:00PM. If you would like to participate by reading or chanting a part (from your home, on Zoom) let Fr. Ignatius know so he can assign you a part and make sure you have the text. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2021, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, April, July and October- January 17, April 18, July 18 and October 17. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Sign-up to Attend Services
We have increased the allowable attendance per service to 15 until at least the end of the month. To sign-up, click on the link and enter your name.
January 23, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-23
January 24, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-24
January 26, 6pm- Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina - http://bit.ly/StNina1-26
January 30, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-30
January 31, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-31
The Face of God: The Orthodox Church on Climate Change
This newly released one hour documentary is well made and is very engaging and beautiful. It is worth your time and consideration. https://vimeo.com/498184186
Fellowship of St. Moses the Black Women's Prayer Group
"For many years our sisters in the Lord within the Fellowship have been asking what avenues of ministry are open to them as women in the Church. Responding to that question and the urgent need for spiritual upliftment in these times, Mother Katherine and the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black are starting a Women’s Prayer Group. This will provide a place for them to voice their concerns in ways that seek or provide solace for their burdens through prayers and the love of Christ without political “noise.” It is an opportunity to bring the grace of our Lord to bear on situations through collective, intercessory prayer.
The group will function in two areas: a private Facebook group and an email list. The Facebook group will allow for members to share prayer requests and updates; the email list will share these and any other submissions periodically, as a way for women to participate outside of Facebook.
The group is for Orthodox women or catechumens who are in support of the mission of the Fellowship. It is not a Chapter, but another way to connect. For more information and to join, visit: http://mosestheblack.org/join/womens-prayer-group/
Hy-Vee Reusable Bag Program to Benefit St. Raphael Food Pantry
If, in February, you buy a $2.50 reusable red bag at the Hy-Vee Drugstore 310 North 1st Avenue, Iowa City, the St. Raphael Food Pantry will receive a $1 donation. Bags will be located in the entryway at the front of the store.
House Blessing Season is Here
It is time for your homes to be blessed. This year, given the pandemic, Fr. Ignatius will be making a few changes to his practice of blessing your homes. If you desire, he will come in and bless your home. The service is short, 10-15 minutes long. He will not be staying to socialize or to eat, but will leave promptly after the service. He will wear a mask and he asks that all people in the home wear masks also. If you would prefer, he can make a scheduled stop to your front porch and say the blessing prayers from there, before leaving. Fr. Ignatius will start contacting people to schedule visits following the New Year.
Thursday Night Book/Fellowship Group
We have resumed. For the rest of January and through all of February, we will be considering race and our Orthodox faith by reading an article on African American experience with icons, and also Mother Katherine Weston's book Race, Identity and Reconciliation, published by the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black. Once the Lenten Triodion starts, we will be reading and discussing Everyday Saints and Other Stories by Archimandrite (now Metropolitan) Tikhon Shevkunov. If you want to purchase either or both books, let Fr. Ignatius or Lori know.
Virtual Coffee Hour
We must continue to avoid socializing in the church building. So our coffee hours will continue to be held online. From 1PM-2:15PM on Sundays, all those interested are invited to use Zoom and go to this link to join in on the virtual coffee hour. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
St. Raphael Food Pantry Announcement
Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
- Canned Tuna and Chicken
- Any Canned Soup, especially soups with meat
- Canned Chili with meat
- Canned Fruit
- Breakfast cereal
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector, and rich. And he sought to see Who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Jesus, for He was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today.” So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully. And when they saw it they all murmured, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham; for the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:1-10)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, Derek Ward and Daniel Hettrick in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Do You Have a Prayer Request?
Please give it to Fr. Ignatius and he will distribute it by email to all those on the Prayer Chain. If you wish to join the Prayer Chain, please let Fr. Ignatius know.
Remember Your Departed Loved Ones With Flowers
Would you like to memorialize your departed loved ones with a bouquet of flowers to be placed in the church on the weekend of your choice? Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, mention it to Fr. Ignatius, give $25 to the church, clearly marking it for "Memorial Flowers" and your loved one(s) will be mentioned during the Great Entrance prayers and in the weekly bulletin. If your departed loved ones are Orthodox, and you would like Trisagion Prayers for the Departed to be offered at the end of Liturgy, you can indicate that on the sign-up sheet as well.
Keep Praying for Kidnapped Orthodox Bishops in Syria
Since April 22, 2013, the Orthodox Metropolitan of Aleppo, Metropolitan Paul, and the Syriac Metropolitan of Aleppo, Youhanna, have been in captivity and have not been heard from. Please pray for their well being and release and also pray for their captors as well.
Food for Thought
"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. In this, the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him."
I John 4:7-9
Sunday January 17, 2020, St. Anthony the Great
Upcoming Services and Events
January 17, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
January 19, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
January 20, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 21, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Book/Fellowship Group, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 22, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:00PM
January 23, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM (live streamed to Facebook page)
January 24, Sunday (St. Xenia of St. Petersburg, Fool-for-Christ)
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Food, Faith and Fasting Online Workshop
The Antiochian Eastern Diocese Ministry Council is sponsoring a 5-week online workshop, led by Rita Madden, titled "Food, Faith and Fasting: A Sacred Journey To Better Health." Rita Madden, MPH, RDN, is the author of Food Faith & Fasting, host of the podcast "Food, Faith & Fasting" on Ancient Faith Radio, and is the Nutrition Director for Mediterranean Wellness, LLC.
Each workshop will include live instructional sessions followed by an opportunity for Q&A with Rita. Session topics are:
Holy Dormition Monastery Micro-Retreat on Zoom The nuns of Holy Dormition Monastery in Rives Junction, MI, along with area clergy, are hosting a micro-retreat on Zoom on Thursday, January 21 starting at 3:45PM CST. For more information and to register, go to: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/4116104861477/WN_IGwcv0RVQOW05kesL6_zmw?fbclid=IwAR2X08h-3_ahhupf5pK7K1EoIE2LcQVIEQE87ZOI3GQ3eTg9FoR92zK2XdE
How to Invite Someone to Church Webinar
Did you know that 82% of people who are unchurched say they are at least somewhat likely to attend church if invited by someone they know? The Antiochian Department of Missions and Evangelism is sponsoring a free webinar titled "How to Invite Someone to Church" on Sunday, January 24 from 7-8pm CST. Go to https://www.missionsandevangelism.com/ to register for bonus material. Webinar will be broadcast at https://www.facebook.com/antiochianmissions
Local News Coverage of Blessing of Water
To read local news coverage on our recent outdoor blessing of the waters service, go to: https://cbs2iowa.com/news/local/orthodox-churches-bless-iowa-river-and-look-to-faith-for-a-bright-future
Wednesday Night Participatory Services to Continue
As we were doing during the Nativity Fast with the paraklesis service over Zoom, we are doing again with akathists on Wednesday nights at 7:00PM. If you would like to participate by reading or chanting a part (from your home, on Zoom) let Fr. Ignatius know so he can assign you a part and make sure you have the text. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2021, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, April, July and October- January 17, April 18, July 18 and October 17. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Sign-up to Attend Services
We have increased the allowable attendance per service to 15 until at least the end of the month. To sign-up, click on the link and enter your name.
January 16, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-16
January 17, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-17
January 23, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-23
January 24, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-24
January 26, 6pm- Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina - http://bit.ly/StNina1-26
January 30, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-30
January 31, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-31
The Face of God: The Orthodox Church on Climate Change
This newly released one hour documentary is well made and is very engaging and beautiful. It is worth your time and consideration. https://vimeo.com/498184186
Fellowship of St. Moses the Black Women's Prayer Group
"For many years our sisters in the Lord within the Fellowship have been asking what avenues of ministry are open to them as women in the Church. Responding to that question and the urgent need for spiritual upliftment in these times, Mother Katherine and the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black are starting a Women’s Prayer Group. This will provide a place for them to voice their concerns in ways that seek or provide solace for their burdens through prayers and the love of Christ without political “noise.” It is an opportunity to bring the grace of our Lord to bear on situations through collective, intercessory prayer.
The group will function in two areas: a private Facebook group and an email list. The Facebook group will allow for members to share prayer requests and updates; the email list will share these and any other submissions periodically, as a way for women to participate outside of Facebook.
The group is for Orthodox women or catechumens who are in support of the mission of the Fellowship. It is not a Chapter, but another way to connect. For more information and to join, visit: http://mosestheblack.org/join/womens-prayer-group/
Hy-Vee Reusable Bag Program to Benefit St. Raphael Food Pantry
If, in February, you buy a $2.50 reusable red bag at the Hy-Vee Drugstore 310 North 1st Avenue, Iowa City, the St. Raphael Food Pantry will receive a $1 donation. Bags will be located in the entryway at the front of the store.
House Blessing Season is Here
It is time for your homes to be blessed. This year, given the pandemic, Fr. Ignatius will be making a few changes to his practice of blessing your homes. If you desire, he will come in and bless your home. The service is short, 10-15 minutes long. He will not be staying to socialize or to eat, but will leave promptly after the service. He will wear a mask and he asks that all people in the home wear masks also. If you would prefer, he can make a scheduled stop to your front porch and say the blessing prayers from there, before leaving. Fr. Ignatius will start contacting people to schedule visits following the New Year.
Thursday Night Book/Fellowship Group
We have resumed. For the rest of January and through all of February, we will be considering race and our Orthodox faith by reading an article on African American experience with icons, and also Mother Katherine Weston's book Race, Identity and Reconciliation, published by the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black. Once the Lenten Triodion starts, we will be reading and discussing Everyday Saints and Other Stories by Archimandrite (now Metropolitan) Tikhon Shevkunov. If you want to purchase either or both books, let Fr. Ignatius or Lori know.
Virtual Coffee Hour
We must continue to avoid socializing in the church building. So our coffee hours will continue to be held online. From 1PM-2:15PM on Sundays, all those interested are invited to use Zoom and go to this link to join in on the virtual coffee hour. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
St. Raphael Food Pantry Announcement
Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped, and commanded him to be brought to Him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me receive my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God. (Luke 18:35-43)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, Derek Ward and Daniel Hettrick in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Do You Have a Prayer Request?
Please give it to Fr. Ignatius and he will distribute it by email to all those on the Prayer Chain. If you wish to join the Prayer Chain, please let Fr. Ignatius know.
Remember Your Departed Loved Ones With Flowers
Would you like to memorialize your departed loved ones with a bouquet of flowers to be placed in the church on the weekend of your choice? Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, mention it to Fr. Ignatius, give $25 to the church, clearly marking it for "Memorial Flowers" and your loved one(s) will be mentioned during the Great Entrance prayers and in the weekly bulletin. If your departed loved ones are Orthodox, and you would like Trisagion Prayers for the Departed to be offered at the end of Liturgy, you can indicate that on the sign-up sheet as well.
Keep Praying for Kidnapped Orthodox Bishops in Syria
Since April 22, 2013, the Orthodox Metropolitan of Aleppo, Metropolitan Paul, and the Syriac Metropolitan of Aleppo, Youhanna, have been in captivity and have not been heard from. Please pray for their well being and release and also pray for their captors as well.
Food for Thought
Brethren, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us have no self-conceit, no provoking of one another, no envy of one another. Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Look to yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 5:22-6:2
January 17, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
January 19, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
January 20, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 21, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Book/Fellowship Group, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 22, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:00PM
January 23, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM (live streamed to Facebook page)
January 24, Sunday (St. Xenia of St. Petersburg, Fool-for-Christ)
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Food, Faith and Fasting Online Workshop
The Antiochian Eastern Diocese Ministry Council is sponsoring a 5-week online workshop, led by Rita Madden, titled "Food, Faith and Fasting: A Sacred Journey To Better Health." Rita Madden, MPH, RDN, is the author of Food Faith & Fasting, host of the podcast "Food, Faith & Fasting" on Ancient Faith Radio, and is the Nutrition Director for Mediterranean Wellness, LLC.
Each workshop will include live instructional sessions followed by an opportunity for Q&A with Rita. Session topics are:
- January 18, 2021, 7 PM EST | Part 1: What's Good and Proper to Eat?
- January 25, 2021, 7 PM EST | Part 2: Eating in Balance
- February 1, 2021, 7 PM EST | Part 3: The Blessing of Fasting
- February 8, 2021, 7 PM EST | Part 4: Examining Exercise
- February 15, 2021, 7 PM EST | Part 5: Stomping Out Stress
Holy Dormition Monastery Micro-Retreat on Zoom The nuns of Holy Dormition Monastery in Rives Junction, MI, along with area clergy, are hosting a micro-retreat on Zoom on Thursday, January 21 starting at 3:45PM CST. For more information and to register, go to: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/4116104861477/WN_IGwcv0RVQOW05kesL6_zmw?fbclid=IwAR2X08h-3_ahhupf5pK7K1EoIE2LcQVIEQE87ZOI3GQ3eTg9FoR92zK2XdE
How to Invite Someone to Church Webinar
Did you know that 82% of people who are unchurched say they are at least somewhat likely to attend church if invited by someone they know? The Antiochian Department of Missions and Evangelism is sponsoring a free webinar titled "How to Invite Someone to Church" on Sunday, January 24 from 7-8pm CST. Go to https://www.missionsandevangelism.com/ to register for bonus material. Webinar will be broadcast at https://www.facebook.com/antiochianmissions
Local News Coverage of Blessing of Water
To read local news coverage on our recent outdoor blessing of the waters service, go to: https://cbs2iowa.com/news/local/orthodox-churches-bless-iowa-river-and-look-to-faith-for-a-bright-future
Wednesday Night Participatory Services to Continue
As we were doing during the Nativity Fast with the paraklesis service over Zoom, we are doing again with akathists on Wednesday nights at 7:00PM. If you would like to participate by reading or chanting a part (from your home, on Zoom) let Fr. Ignatius know so he can assign you a part and make sure you have the text. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2021, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, April, July and October- January 17, April 18, July 18 and October 17. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Sign-up to Attend Services
We have increased the allowable attendance per service to 15 until at least the end of the month. To sign-up, click on the link and enter your name.
January 16, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-16
January 17, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-17
January 23, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-23
January 24, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-24
January 26, 6pm- Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina - http://bit.ly/StNina1-26
January 30, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-30
January 31, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-31
The Face of God: The Orthodox Church on Climate Change
This newly released one hour documentary is well made and is very engaging and beautiful. It is worth your time and consideration. https://vimeo.com/498184186
Fellowship of St. Moses the Black Women's Prayer Group
"For many years our sisters in the Lord within the Fellowship have been asking what avenues of ministry are open to them as women in the Church. Responding to that question and the urgent need for spiritual upliftment in these times, Mother Katherine and the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black are starting a Women’s Prayer Group. This will provide a place for them to voice their concerns in ways that seek or provide solace for their burdens through prayers and the love of Christ without political “noise.” It is an opportunity to bring the grace of our Lord to bear on situations through collective, intercessory prayer.
The group will function in two areas: a private Facebook group and an email list. The Facebook group will allow for members to share prayer requests and updates; the email list will share these and any other submissions periodically, as a way for women to participate outside of Facebook.
The group is for Orthodox women or catechumens who are in support of the mission of the Fellowship. It is not a Chapter, but another way to connect. For more information and to join, visit: http://mosestheblack.org/join/womens-prayer-group/
Hy-Vee Reusable Bag Program to Benefit St. Raphael Food Pantry
If, in February, you buy a $2.50 reusable red bag at the Hy-Vee Drugstore 310 North 1st Avenue, Iowa City, the St. Raphael Food Pantry will receive a $1 donation. Bags will be located in the entryway at the front of the store.
House Blessing Season is Here
It is time for your homes to be blessed. This year, given the pandemic, Fr. Ignatius will be making a few changes to his practice of blessing your homes. If you desire, he will come in and bless your home. The service is short, 10-15 minutes long. He will not be staying to socialize or to eat, but will leave promptly after the service. He will wear a mask and he asks that all people in the home wear masks also. If you would prefer, he can make a scheduled stop to your front porch and say the blessing prayers from there, before leaving. Fr. Ignatius will start contacting people to schedule visits following the New Year.
Thursday Night Book/Fellowship Group
We have resumed. For the rest of January and through all of February, we will be considering race and our Orthodox faith by reading an article on African American experience with icons, and also Mother Katherine Weston's book Race, Identity and Reconciliation, published by the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black. Once the Lenten Triodion starts, we will be reading and discussing Everyday Saints and Other Stories by Archimandrite (now Metropolitan) Tikhon Shevkunov. If you want to purchase either or both books, let Fr. Ignatius or Lori know.
Virtual Coffee Hour
We must continue to avoid socializing in the church building. So our coffee hours will continue to be held online. From 1PM-2:15PM on Sundays, all those interested are invited to use Zoom and go to this link to join in on the virtual coffee hour. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
St. Raphael Food Pantry Announcement
Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
- Canned Tuna and Chicken
- Any Canned Soup, especially soups with meat
- Canned Chili with meat
- Canned Fruit
- Breakfast cereal
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped, and commanded him to be brought to Him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me receive my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God. (Luke 18:35-43)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, Derek Ward and Daniel Hettrick in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Do You Have a Prayer Request?
Please give it to Fr. Ignatius and he will distribute it by email to all those on the Prayer Chain. If you wish to join the Prayer Chain, please let Fr. Ignatius know.
Remember Your Departed Loved Ones With Flowers
Would you like to memorialize your departed loved ones with a bouquet of flowers to be placed in the church on the weekend of your choice? Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, mention it to Fr. Ignatius, give $25 to the church, clearly marking it for "Memorial Flowers" and your loved one(s) will be mentioned during the Great Entrance prayers and in the weekly bulletin. If your departed loved ones are Orthodox, and you would like Trisagion Prayers for the Departed to be offered at the end of Liturgy, you can indicate that on the sign-up sheet as well.
Keep Praying for Kidnapped Orthodox Bishops in Syria
Since April 22, 2013, the Orthodox Metropolitan of Aleppo, Metropolitan Paul, and the Syriac Metropolitan of Aleppo, Youhanna, have been in captivity and have not been heard from. Please pray for their well being and release and also pray for their captors as well.
Food for Thought
Brethren, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us have no self-conceit, no provoking of one another, no envy of one another. Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Look to yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 5:22-6:2
Sunday January 10, 2020, Sunday after Theophany
Upcoming Services and Events
January 10, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
January 12, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
January 13, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 14, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Book/Fellowship Group, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 15, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15Am-12:00PM
January 16, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:00PM (on Zoom)
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM (live streamed to Facebook page)
January 17, Sunday (St. Anthony the Great)
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Outdoor Blessing of the Water Service
In conjunction with the Feast of Theophany, we will bless the Iowa River at the pedestrian bridge near the Iowa River Power Restaurant (501 1st Ave., Coralville) at 2PM on Saturday, January 9. This is a short 20 minute service. We will be joined by clergy and laity from our sister parishes in Cedar Rapids. Unlike years past, there will be no joint vespers service and meal following, due to restrictions related to the pandemic.
Wednesday Night Participatory Services to Continue
As we were doing during the Nativity Fast with the paraklesis service over Zoom, we will do again with akathists on Wednesday nights, beginning January 13. If you would like to participate by reading or chanting a part (from your home, on Zoom) let Fr. Ignatius know so he can assign you a part and make sure you have the text.
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2021, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, April, July and October- January 17, April 18, July 18 and October 17. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Sign-up to Attend Services
January 9, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-9
January 10, 8:45/10am- Matins & Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-10
January 16, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-16
January 17, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-17
January 23, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-23
January 24, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-24
January 26, 6pm- Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina - http://bit.ly/StNina1-26
January 30, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-30
January 31, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-31
Holy Bread Sign-Ups
As we have turned over to a new year, there are fresh sign-up sheets posted at church for weekly opportunities to bring holy bread throughout the year. Please check the list and sign-up. Alternately, if there is a particular Sunday you want to reserve for yourself, contact Fr. Ignatius and he can put your name on the list.
House Blessing Season Approaching
Following Theophany on January 6, it is time for your homes to be blessed. This year, given the pandemic, Fr. Ignatius will be making a few changes to his practice of blessing your homes. If you desire, he will come in and bless your home. The service is short, 10-15 minutes long. He will not be staying to socialize or to eat, but will leave promptly after the service. He will wear a mask and he asks that all people in the home wear masks also. If you would prefer, he can make a scheduled stop to your front porch and say the blessing prayers from there, before leaving. Fr. Ignatius will start contacting people to schedule visits following the New Year.
Thursday Night Book/Fellowship Group
We are resuming on January 14. For the rest of January and through all of February, we will be considering race and our Orthodox faith by reading an article on African American experience with icons, and also Mother Katherine Weston's book Race, Identity and Reconciliation, published by the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black. Once the Lenten Triodion starts, we will be reading and discussing Everyday Saints and Other Stories by Archimandrite (now Metropolitan) Tikhon Shevkunov. If you want to purchase either or both books, let Fr. Ignatius or Lori know.
Virtual Coffee Hour
We must continue to avoid socializing in the church building. So our coffee hours will continue to be held online. From 1PM-2:15PM on Sundays, all those interested are invited to use Zoom and go to this link to join in on the virtual coffee hour. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
St. Raphael Food Pantry Announcement
Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus entered a village, He was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When He saw them He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving Him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus said, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And He said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.” (Luke 17:12-19)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, Derek Ward and Daniel Hettrick in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Do You Have a Prayer Request?
Please give it to Fr. Ignatius and he will distribute it by email to all those on the Prayer Chain. If you wish to join the Prayer Chain, please let Fr. Ignatius know.
Remember Your Departed Loved Ones With Flowers
Would you like to memorialize your departed loved ones with a bouquet of flowers to be placed in the church on the weekend of your choice? Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, mention it to Fr. Ignatius, give $25 to the church, clearly marking it for "Memorial Flowers" and your loved one(s) will be mentioned during the Great Entrance prayers and in the weekly bulletin. If your departed loved ones are Orthodox, and you would like Trisagion Prayers for the Departed to be offered at the end of Liturgy, you can indicate that on the sign-up sheet as well.
Keep Praying for Kidnapped Orthodox Bishops in Syria
Since April 22, 2013, the Orthodox Metropolitan of Aleppo, Metropolitan Paul, and the Syriac Metropolitan of Aleppo, Youhanna, have been in captivity and have not been heard from. Please pray for their well being and release and also pray for their captors as well.
Food for Thought
“If only it were all so simple! If only there were evil people somewhere insidiously committing evil deeds, and it were necessary only to separate them from the rest of us and destroy them. But the line dividing good and evil cuts through the heart of every human being. And who is willing to destroy a piece of his own heart?”
― Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, The Gulag Archipelago 1918–1956
January 10, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
January 12, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
January 13, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 14, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Book/Fellowship Group, 7:00PM (on Zoom)
January 15, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15Am-12:00PM
January 16, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:00PM (on Zoom)
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM (live streamed to Facebook page)
January 17, Sunday (St. Anthony the Great)
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Outdoor Blessing of the Water Service
In conjunction with the Feast of Theophany, we will bless the Iowa River at the pedestrian bridge near the Iowa River Power Restaurant (501 1st Ave., Coralville) at 2PM on Saturday, January 9. This is a short 20 minute service. We will be joined by clergy and laity from our sister parishes in Cedar Rapids. Unlike years past, there will be no joint vespers service and meal following, due to restrictions related to the pandemic.
Wednesday Night Participatory Services to Continue
As we were doing during the Nativity Fast with the paraklesis service over Zoom, we will do again with akathists on Wednesday nights, beginning January 13. If you would like to participate by reading or chanting a part (from your home, on Zoom) let Fr. Ignatius know so he can assign you a part and make sure you have the text.
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2021, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, April, July and October- January 17, April 18, July 18 and October 17. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Sign-up to Attend Services
January 9, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-9
January 10, 8:45/10am- Matins & Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-10
January 16, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-16
January 17, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-17
January 23, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-23
January 24, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-24
January 26, 6pm- Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina - http://bit.ly/StNina1-26
January 30, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-30
January 31, 8:45am/10am- Matins and Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-31
Holy Bread Sign-Ups
As we have turned over to a new year, there are fresh sign-up sheets posted at church for weekly opportunities to bring holy bread throughout the year. Please check the list and sign-up. Alternately, if there is a particular Sunday you want to reserve for yourself, contact Fr. Ignatius and he can put your name on the list.
House Blessing Season Approaching
Following Theophany on January 6, it is time for your homes to be blessed. This year, given the pandemic, Fr. Ignatius will be making a few changes to his practice of blessing your homes. If you desire, he will come in and bless your home. The service is short, 10-15 minutes long. He will not be staying to socialize or to eat, but will leave promptly after the service. He will wear a mask and he asks that all people in the home wear masks also. If you would prefer, he can make a scheduled stop to your front porch and say the blessing prayers from there, before leaving. Fr. Ignatius will start contacting people to schedule visits following the New Year.
Thursday Night Book/Fellowship Group
We are resuming on January 14. For the rest of January and through all of February, we will be considering race and our Orthodox faith by reading an article on African American experience with icons, and also Mother Katherine Weston's book Race, Identity and Reconciliation, published by the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black. Once the Lenten Triodion starts, we will be reading and discussing Everyday Saints and Other Stories by Archimandrite (now Metropolitan) Tikhon Shevkunov. If you want to purchase either or both books, let Fr. Ignatius or Lori know.
Virtual Coffee Hour
We must continue to avoid socializing in the church building. So our coffee hours will continue to be held online. From 1PM-2:15PM on Sundays, all those interested are invited to use Zoom and go to this link to join in on the virtual coffee hour. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
St. Raphael Food Pantry Announcement
Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
- Canned Tuna and Chicken
- Any Canned Soup, especially soups with meat
- Canned Chili with meat
- Canned Fruit
- Breakfast cereal
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus entered a village, He was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When He saw them He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving Him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus said, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And He said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.” (Luke 17:12-19)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, Derek Ward and Daniel Hettrick in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Do You Have a Prayer Request?
Please give it to Fr. Ignatius and he will distribute it by email to all those on the Prayer Chain. If you wish to join the Prayer Chain, please let Fr. Ignatius know.
Remember Your Departed Loved Ones With Flowers
Would you like to memorialize your departed loved ones with a bouquet of flowers to be placed in the church on the weekend of your choice? Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, mention it to Fr. Ignatius, give $25 to the church, clearly marking it for "Memorial Flowers" and your loved one(s) will be mentioned during the Great Entrance prayers and in the weekly bulletin. If your departed loved ones are Orthodox, and you would like Trisagion Prayers for the Departed to be offered at the end of Liturgy, you can indicate that on the sign-up sheet as well.
Keep Praying for Kidnapped Orthodox Bishops in Syria
Since April 22, 2013, the Orthodox Metropolitan of Aleppo, Metropolitan Paul, and the Syriac Metropolitan of Aleppo, Youhanna, have been in captivity and have not been heard from. Please pray for their well being and release and also pray for their captors as well.
Food for Thought
“If only it were all so simple! If only there were evil people somewhere insidiously committing evil deeds, and it were necessary only to separate them from the rest of us and destroy them. But the line dividing good and evil cuts through the heart of every human being. And who is willing to destroy a piece of his own heart?”
― Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, The Gulag Archipelago 1918–1956
Sunday January 3, 2020, Sunday before Theophany
Upcoming Services and Events
January 3, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
January 5, Tuesday
+ Royal Hours for Theophany, 9:00AM
+ Matins and Liturgy for Theophany, 5:00PM
January 6, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM (livestreamed on Facebook page)
January 7, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
January 8, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15Am-12:00PM
January 9, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM (live streamed to Facebook page)
January 10, Sunday (Sunday after Theophany)
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Sign-up to Attend Services
January 2, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-2
January 3, 8:45/10am- Matins & Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-3
January 5, 9am- Royal Hours for Theophany - http://bit.ly/RoyalHours1-5
January 5, 5pm- Matins & Liturgy for Theophany - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-5
January 6, 7pm- Akathist - http://bit.ly/Akathist1-6
January 9, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-9
January 10, 8:45/10am- Matins & Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-10
Holy Bread Sign-Ups
As we have turned over to a new year, there are fresh sign-up sheets posted at church for weekly opportunities to bring holy bread throughout the year. Please check the list and sign-up. Alternately, if there is a particular Sunday you want to reserve for yourself, contact Fr. Ignatius and he can put your name on the list.
Mortgage Loan News
Your Parish Council was able to recently refinance our building's mortgage loan, lowering the interest rate from 4.35% to 4%.
January/February Calendars Available
Calendars listing the services and other events scheduled for the months of January and February are available to pick up at church.
Theophany Services
Tuesday, January 5- Royal Hours, 9:00AM; Matins & Liturgy, 5:00PM
Outdoor Blessing of the Water Service
In conjunction with the Feast of Theophany, we will bless the Iowa River at the pedestrian bridge near the Iowa River Power Restaurant (501 1st Ave., Coralville) at 2PM on Saturday, January 9. This is a short 20 minute service. We will be joined by clergy and laity from our sister parishes in Cedar Rapids. Unlike years past, there will be no joint vespers service and meal following, due to restrictions related to the pandemic.
House Blessing Season Approaching
Following Theophany on January 6, it is time for your homes to be blessed. This year, given the pandemic, Fr. Ignatius will be making a few changes to his practice of blessing your homes. If you desire, he will come in and bless your home. The service is short, 10-15 minutes long. He will not be staying to socialize or to eat, but will leave promptly after the service. He will wear a mask and he asks that all people in the home wear masks also. If you would prefer, he can make a scheduled stop to your front porch and say the blessing prayers from there, before leaving. Fr. Ignatius will start contacting people to schedule visits following the New Year.
Thursday Night Book/Fellowship Group
We are taking three weeks off and will resume on January 14. For the rest of January and through all of February, we will be considering race and our Orthodox faith by reading an article on African American experience with icons, and also Mother Katherine Weston's book Race, Identity and Reconciliation, published by the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black. Once the Lenten Triodion starts, we will be reading and discussing Everyday Saints and Other Stories by Archimandrite (now Metropolitan) Tikhon Shevkunov. If you want to purchase either or both books, let Fr. Ignatius or Lori know.
Virtual Coffee Hour
We must continue to avoid socializing in the church building. So our coffee hours will continue to be held online. From 1PM-2:15PM on Sundays, all those interested are invited to use Zoom and go to this link to join in on the virtual coffee hour. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
St. Raphael Food Pantry Announcement
Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulon and Naphtali, so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “The land of Zebulon and the land of Naphtali, toward the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.” From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:12-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, Derek Ward and Daniel Hettrick in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Do You Have a Prayer Request?
Please give it to Fr. Ignatius and he will distribute it by email to all those on the Prayer Chain. If you wish to join the Prayer Chain, please let Fr. Ignatius know.
Remember Your Departed Loved Ones With Flowers
Would you like to memorialize your departed loved ones with a bouquet of flowers to be placed in the church on the weekend of your choice? Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, mention it to Fr. Ignatius, give $25 to the church, clearly marking it for "Memorial Flowers" and your loved one(s) will be mentioned during the Great Entrance prayers and in the weekly bulletin. If your departed loved ones are Orthodox, and you would like Trisagion Prayers for the Departed to be offered at the end of Liturgy, you can indicate that on the sign-up sheet as well.
Keep Praying for Kidnapped Orthodox Bishops in Syria
Since April 22, 2013, the Orthodox Metropolitan of Aleppo, Metropolitan Paul, and the Syriac Metropolitan of Aleppo, Youhanna, have been in captivity and have not been heard from. Please pray for their well being and release and also pray for their captors as well.
Food for Thought
The more one reads and studies the Bible, the more he finds reasons to study it as often and as frequently as he can. According to St. John Chrysostom, it is like an aromatic root, which produces more and more aroma the more it is rubbed.
Just as important as knowing why we should read the Bible is knowing how we should read the Bible.
The best guides for this are the holy Fathers, headed by St. John Chrysostom who, in a manner of speaking, has written a fifth Gospel.
The holy Fathers recommend serious preparation before reading and studying the Bible; but of what does this preparation consist?
First of all in prayer. Pray to the Lord to illuminate your mind--so that you may understand the words of the Bible--and to fill your heart with His grace--so that you may feel the truth and life of those words.
Be aware that these are God's words, which He is speaking and saying to you personally. Prayer, together with the other virtues found in the Gospel, is the best preparation a person can have for understanding the Bible.
How should we read the Bible? Prayerfully and reverently, for in each word there is another drop of eternal truth, and all the words together make up the boundless ocean of the Eternal Truth.
-- "How to Read the Bible and Why," an essay excerpt by St. Justin Popović
January 3, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed on Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
January 5, Tuesday
+ Royal Hours for Theophany, 9:00AM
+ Matins and Liturgy for Theophany, 5:00PM
January 6, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM (livestreamed on Facebook page)
January 7, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-2:00PM
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00PM
January 8, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15Am-12:00PM
January 9, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM (live streamed to Facebook page)
January 10, Sunday (Sunday after Theophany)
+ Matins, 8:45AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Virtual Coffee Hour on Zoom, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Sign-up to Attend Services
January 2, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-2
January 3, 8:45/10am- Matins & Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-3
January 5, 9am- Royal Hours for Theophany - http://bit.ly/RoyalHours1-5
January 5, 5pm- Matins & Liturgy for Theophany - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-5
January 6, 7pm- Akathist - http://bit.ly/Akathist1-6
January 9, 5pm- Great Vespers - http://bit.ly/Vespers1-9
January 10, 8:45/10am- Matins & Liturgy - http://bit.ly/MatinsLiturgy1-10
Holy Bread Sign-Ups
As we have turned over to a new year, there are fresh sign-up sheets posted at church for weekly opportunities to bring holy bread throughout the year. Please check the list and sign-up. Alternately, if there is a particular Sunday you want to reserve for yourself, contact Fr. Ignatius and he can put your name on the list.
Mortgage Loan News
Your Parish Council was able to recently refinance our building's mortgage loan, lowering the interest rate from 4.35% to 4%.
January/February Calendars Available
Calendars listing the services and other events scheduled for the months of January and February are available to pick up at church.
Theophany Services
Tuesday, January 5- Royal Hours, 9:00AM; Matins & Liturgy, 5:00PM
Outdoor Blessing of the Water Service
In conjunction with the Feast of Theophany, we will bless the Iowa River at the pedestrian bridge near the Iowa River Power Restaurant (501 1st Ave., Coralville) at 2PM on Saturday, January 9. This is a short 20 minute service. We will be joined by clergy and laity from our sister parishes in Cedar Rapids. Unlike years past, there will be no joint vespers service and meal following, due to restrictions related to the pandemic.
House Blessing Season Approaching
Following Theophany on January 6, it is time for your homes to be blessed. This year, given the pandemic, Fr. Ignatius will be making a few changes to his practice of blessing your homes. If you desire, he will come in and bless your home. The service is short, 10-15 minutes long. He will not be staying to socialize or to eat, but will leave promptly after the service. He will wear a mask and he asks that all people in the home wear masks also. If you would prefer, he can make a scheduled stop to your front porch and say the blessing prayers from there, before leaving. Fr. Ignatius will start contacting people to schedule visits following the New Year.
Thursday Night Book/Fellowship Group
We are taking three weeks off and will resume on January 14. For the rest of January and through all of February, we will be considering race and our Orthodox faith by reading an article on African American experience with icons, and also Mother Katherine Weston's book Race, Identity and Reconciliation, published by the Fellowship of St. Moses the Black. Once the Lenten Triodion starts, we will be reading and discussing Everyday Saints and Other Stories by Archimandrite (now Metropolitan) Tikhon Shevkunov. If you want to purchase either or both books, let Fr. Ignatius or Lori know.
Virtual Coffee Hour
We must continue to avoid socializing in the church building. So our coffee hours will continue to be held online. From 1PM-2:15PM on Sundays, all those interested are invited to use Zoom and go to this link to join in on the virtual coffee hour. https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/4320014122
St. Raphael Food Pantry Announcement
Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
- Canned Tuna and Chicken
- Any Canned Soup, especially soups with meat
- Canned Chili with meat
- Canned Fruit
- Breakfast cereal
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulon and Naphtali, so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “The land of Zebulon and the land of Naphtali, toward the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.” From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:12-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, Derek Ward and Daniel Hettrick in your prayers as they prepare to be sacramentally joined to the Orthodox Church.
Do You Have a Prayer Request?
Please give it to Fr. Ignatius and he will distribute it by email to all those on the Prayer Chain. If you wish to join the Prayer Chain, please let Fr. Ignatius know.
Remember Your Departed Loved Ones With Flowers
Would you like to memorialize your departed loved ones with a bouquet of flowers to be placed in the church on the weekend of your choice? Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, mention it to Fr. Ignatius, give $25 to the church, clearly marking it for "Memorial Flowers" and your loved one(s) will be mentioned during the Great Entrance prayers and in the weekly bulletin. If your departed loved ones are Orthodox, and you would like Trisagion Prayers for the Departed to be offered at the end of Liturgy, you can indicate that on the sign-up sheet as well.
Keep Praying for Kidnapped Orthodox Bishops in Syria
Since April 22, 2013, the Orthodox Metropolitan of Aleppo, Metropolitan Paul, and the Syriac Metropolitan of Aleppo, Youhanna, have been in captivity and have not been heard from. Please pray for their well being and release and also pray for their captors as well.
Food for Thought
The more one reads and studies the Bible, the more he finds reasons to study it as often and as frequently as he can. According to St. John Chrysostom, it is like an aromatic root, which produces more and more aroma the more it is rubbed.
Just as important as knowing why we should read the Bible is knowing how we should read the Bible.
The best guides for this are the holy Fathers, headed by St. John Chrysostom who, in a manner of speaking, has written a fifth Gospel.
The holy Fathers recommend serious preparation before reading and studying the Bible; but of what does this preparation consist?
First of all in prayer. Pray to the Lord to illuminate your mind--so that you may understand the words of the Bible--and to fill your heart with His grace--so that you may feel the truth and life of those words.
Be aware that these are God's words, which He is speaking and saying to you personally. Prayer, together with the other virtues found in the Gospel, is the best preparation a person can have for understanding the Bible.
How should we read the Bible? Prayerfully and reverently, for in each word there is another drop of eternal truth, and all the words together make up the boundless ocean of the Eternal Truth.
-- "How to Read the Bible and Why," an essay excerpt by St. Justin Popović
