Sunday October 20, 2019, 18th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
October 22, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 23, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapters 10-11), 7:30PM
October 26, Saturday
+ Semi-annual Clean-up Day, 1:00PM-5:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 27, Sunday (19th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
+ Intro to Orthodoxy Class, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Fr. Ignatius is Traveling
Fr. Ignatius will be out of town from the morning of October 23 until the afternoon of October 26, attending a deanery meeting a clergy retreat. He will be available by phone during this time. There will be no office hours of Hour Prayers during these days.
Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
October 23- Luke 10-11 The Good Samaritan, Mary and Martha, Prayer
October 30- Luke 12-14 Parables and Miracles: How to Regard the Things of This World
November 6- Luke 15 The Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son
Semi-annual Church Building and Grounds Clean-up Day, October 26
From 1:00PM until 5:00PM on Saturday, October 26, we will be working to clean up our building and our yard in order that all is looking sparkly for our patronal feast day commemorations the next weekend.
Parking on October 27
The annual Run for the Schools road race will be in our neighborhood and on our street on Sunday, October 27. It will not be possible to park on College St. or the surrounding streets due to road closures. Please plan to park further away and walk in. Entering the Chauncey Swan parking garage on Washington St. will likely be your best option.
November-December Calendars Printed
Calendars showing services and events for the months of November and December are now printed and available.
Statement from Recent Synod of Antioch Meetings
https://antiochpatriarchate.org/en/page/statement-issued-by-the-holy-synod-of-antioch-balamand-october-10-2019/2279/
OCF Dinner
Sanjoy Paul and Elsa Padath has graciously invited the OCF student group to their home for dinner at 6:00PM on Tuesday, October 29.
Patronal Feast Day of St. Raphael, November 1 & 2
We will celebrate our patron saint and his service to our Lord with Vespers at 7:00PM on Friday, November 1 and Matins and Liturgy at 8:30 and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 2.
Please Return Pledge Packets by November 3
In order to form a responsible budget in time to be voted on at our annual meeting in early December, the parish coucil asks that financial pledges for 2020 be returned to our treasurer by November 3. Thank you!
Kitchen Update and October Challenge Gift
We have received both a gift and an exciting challenge to help us complete our Kitchen! First, an update on our kitchen progress: Irakliy has been working hard to open the wall between the old coal room and the new kitchen area downstairs. He has prepared the walls for drywall and laid the groundwork for our next steps. He and Newman and Kristi are now preparing drawings to submit to the City for the appropriate building permits. The majority of the furnishings and appliances we need have been donated. Once our plans and permits are approved, the next steps will be completing the necessary plumbing and electrical work. We will need to hire licensed professionals to do that work for us. This will be the biggest expense of the project. We are obtaining estimates for this work. The exciting news is that we have received a $2000 challenge gift! The generous donors have challenged the congregation to match their $2000 gift during the month of October. $4000 will bring us a long way toward completing this project! If you’d like to donate, please mark your gift clearly for the Kitchen. If you would like to spread your gift over the rest of the year, you can pick up a form and let us know what schedule of giving would work for you. I’ll be giving regular updates throughout the month of October.
Intro to Orthodoxy Classes
Would you, or somebody you know like to learn some of the basics of the Orthodox Christian faith? All are welcome. Beginning on October 13 and meeting consecutively for six Sundays at 1:00PM, this class will give attendees the opportunity to learn some of the basic theology, history and practices of the Orthodox Church. This class is appropriate for both newcomers, and for old timers who want a refresher. If you plan to attend but haven't let Fr. Ignatius know yet, please contact him. The remaining schedule of classes is as follows:
Oct. 27-The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
Nov. 3- Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
Nov. 10-Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Nov. 17- Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Ancient and Marvelous: The Life of Fr. Nicola Yanney
The first priest that St. Raphael ordained was Fr. Nicola Yanney, pastor of St. George Church in Kearney, Nebraska. Like St. Raphael, Fr. Nicola was a missionary and traveled extensively. He was a circuit-riding priest who ministered throughout the Great Plains states, including Iowa. He also suffered deeply and experienced great loss, but remained faithful to what God had called him. A new documentary on his life can be watched here: https://vimeo.com/365128189 and a new book on his life can be purchased from Ancient Faith Publishing here: https://store.ancientfaith.com/apostle-to-the-plains-the-life-of-father-nicola-yanney/
Are You a Coffee Drinker?
If you buy "Byzantine Coffee" (www.byzantinecoffee.com) you can help a growing mission in Texas, and simultaneously help St. Raphael Church as well. Go to their site, order some coffee, either a one time purchase or an ongoing subscription, enter in a special code for St. Raphael Church (to be found on their website) and both St. Katherine Mission in Burleson, Texas and St. Raphael Church receive a portion of the purchase price. Buy some for yourself. Give some as a gift!
St. Raphael Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry is always accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Some of the more popular items with are guests are peanut butter, jelly/jam, canned tuna, canned chicken, chili, soups with meat such as chicken noodle or steak and potatoes, and canned fruit. Please consider making a donation of food the next time you are at church.
Is St. Raphael Church Important to You?
There are many ways to show your appreciation and support for St. Raphael Church, including volunteering, praying and donating. Donating is as easy as making going to our online donation site at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/serve--donate.html No amount is too small.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, there came to Jesus a man named Jairus, who was a ruler of the synagogue; and falling at Jesus’ feet he besought Him to come to his house, for he had an only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she was dying. As Jesus went, the people pressed round Him. And a woman, who had had a flow of blood for twelve years, and had spent all her living upon physicians, and could not be healed by anyone, came up behind Him, and touched the fringe of His garment; and immediately her flow of blood ceased. And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched Me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the multitudes surround Thee and press upon Thee! And Thou sayest, ‘Who touched Me?’” But Jesus said, “Someone touched Me; for I perceive that power has gone forth from Me.” And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before Him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched Him, and how she had been immediately healed. And Jesus said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” While Jesus was still speaking, a man from the ruler’s house came and said, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher any more.” But Jesus on hearing this answered him, “Do not fear; only believe, and she shall be well.” And when Jesus came to the house, He permitted no one to enter with Him, except Peter and James and John, and the father and mother of the child. And all were weeping and bewailing her; but Jesus said, “Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But taking her by the hand Jesus called, saying, “Child, arise.” And her spirit returned, and she got up at once; and Jesus directed that something should be given her to eat. And her parents were amazed; but He charged them to tell no one what had happened. (Luke 8:41-56)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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 ThoughtI lift up my eyes to the mountains.
From where does my help come?
My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot be moved;
he who keeps you will not slumber.
Behold, he who keeps Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord is your keeper;
the Lord is your shade on your right hand.
The sun shall not strike you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all evil;
he will keep your life.
The Lord will keep
your going out and your coming in
from this time forth and forevermore.
Psalm 121
October 22, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 23, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapters 10-11), 7:30PM
October 26, Saturday
+ Semi-annual Clean-up Day, 1:00PM-5:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 27, Sunday (19th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
+ Intro to Orthodoxy Class, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Fr. Ignatius is Traveling
Fr. Ignatius will be out of town from the morning of October 23 until the afternoon of October 26, attending a deanery meeting a clergy retreat. He will be available by phone during this time. There will be no office hours of Hour Prayers during these days.
Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
October 23- Luke 10-11 The Good Samaritan, Mary and Martha, Prayer
October 30- Luke 12-14 Parables and Miracles: How to Regard the Things of This World
November 6- Luke 15 The Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son
Semi-annual Church Building and Grounds Clean-up Day, October 26
From 1:00PM until 5:00PM on Saturday, October 26, we will be working to clean up our building and our yard in order that all is looking sparkly for our patronal feast day commemorations the next weekend.
Parking on October 27
The annual Run for the Schools road race will be in our neighborhood and on our street on Sunday, October 27. It will not be possible to park on College St. or the surrounding streets due to road closures. Please plan to park further away and walk in. Entering the Chauncey Swan parking garage on Washington St. will likely be your best option.
November-December Calendars Printed
Calendars showing services and events for the months of November and December are now printed and available.
Statement from Recent Synod of Antioch Meetings
https://antiochpatriarchate.org/en/page/statement-issued-by-the-holy-synod-of-antioch-balamand-october-10-2019/2279/
OCF Dinner
Sanjoy Paul and Elsa Padath has graciously invited the OCF student group to their home for dinner at 6:00PM on Tuesday, October 29.
Patronal Feast Day of St. Raphael, November 1 & 2
We will celebrate our patron saint and his service to our Lord with Vespers at 7:00PM on Friday, November 1 and Matins and Liturgy at 8:30 and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 2.
Please Return Pledge Packets by November 3
In order to form a responsible budget in time to be voted on at our annual meeting in early December, the parish coucil asks that financial pledges for 2020 be returned to our treasurer by November 3. Thank you!
Kitchen Update and October Challenge Gift
We have received both a gift and an exciting challenge to help us complete our Kitchen! First, an update on our kitchen progress: Irakliy has been working hard to open the wall between the old coal room and the new kitchen area downstairs. He has prepared the walls for drywall and laid the groundwork for our next steps. He and Newman and Kristi are now preparing drawings to submit to the City for the appropriate building permits. The majority of the furnishings and appliances we need have been donated. Once our plans and permits are approved, the next steps will be completing the necessary plumbing and electrical work. We will need to hire licensed professionals to do that work for us. This will be the biggest expense of the project. We are obtaining estimates for this work. The exciting news is that we have received a $2000 challenge gift! The generous donors have challenged the congregation to match their $2000 gift during the month of October. $4000 will bring us a long way toward completing this project! If you’d like to donate, please mark your gift clearly for the Kitchen. If you would like to spread your gift over the rest of the year, you can pick up a form and let us know what schedule of giving would work for you. I’ll be giving regular updates throughout the month of October.
Intro to Orthodoxy Classes
Would you, or somebody you know like to learn some of the basics of the Orthodox Christian faith? All are welcome. Beginning on October 13 and meeting consecutively for six Sundays at 1:00PM, this class will give attendees the opportunity to learn some of the basic theology, history and practices of the Orthodox Church. This class is appropriate for both newcomers, and for old timers who want a refresher. If you plan to attend but haven't let Fr. Ignatius know yet, please contact him. The remaining schedule of classes is as follows:
Oct. 27-The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
Nov. 3- Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
Nov. 10-Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Nov. 17- Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Ancient and Marvelous: The Life of Fr. Nicola Yanney
The first priest that St. Raphael ordained was Fr. Nicola Yanney, pastor of St. George Church in Kearney, Nebraska. Like St. Raphael, Fr. Nicola was a missionary and traveled extensively. He was a circuit-riding priest who ministered throughout the Great Plains states, including Iowa. He also suffered deeply and experienced great loss, but remained faithful to what God had called him. A new documentary on his life can be watched here: https://vimeo.com/365128189 and a new book on his life can be purchased from Ancient Faith Publishing here: https://store.ancientfaith.com/apostle-to-the-plains-the-life-of-father-nicola-yanney/
Are You a Coffee Drinker?
If you buy "Byzantine Coffee" (www.byzantinecoffee.com) you can help a growing mission in Texas, and simultaneously help St. Raphael Church as well. Go to their site, order some coffee, either a one time purchase or an ongoing subscription, enter in a special code for St. Raphael Church (to be found on their website) and both St. Katherine Mission in Burleson, Texas and St. Raphael Church receive a portion of the purchase price. Buy some for yourself. Give some as a gift!
St. Raphael Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry is always accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Some of the more popular items with are guests are peanut butter, jelly/jam, canned tuna, canned chicken, chili, soups with meat such as chicken noodle or steak and potatoes, and canned fruit. Please consider making a donation of food the next time you are at church.
Is St. Raphael Church Important to You?
There are many ways to show your appreciation and support for St. Raphael Church, including volunteering, praying and donating. Donating is as easy as making going to our online donation site at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/serve--donate.html No amount is too small.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, there came to Jesus a man named Jairus, who was a ruler of the synagogue; and falling at Jesus’ feet he besought Him to come to his house, for he had an only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she was dying. As Jesus went, the people pressed round Him. And a woman, who had had a flow of blood for twelve years, and had spent all her living upon physicians, and could not be healed by anyone, came up behind Him, and touched the fringe of His garment; and immediately her flow of blood ceased. And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched Me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the multitudes surround Thee and press upon Thee! And Thou sayest, ‘Who touched Me?’” But Jesus said, “Someone touched Me; for I perceive that power has gone forth from Me.” And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling, and falling down before Him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched Him, and how she had been immediately healed. And Jesus said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” While Jesus was still speaking, a man from the ruler’s house came and said, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher any more.” But Jesus on hearing this answered him, “Do not fear; only believe, and she shall be well.” And when Jesus came to the house, He permitted no one to enter with Him, except Peter and James and John, and the father and mother of the child. And all were weeping and bewailing her; but Jesus said, “Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But taking her by the hand Jesus called, saying, “Child, arise.” And her spirit returned, and she got up at once; and Jesus directed that something should be given her to eat. And her parents were amazed; but He charged them to tell no one what had happened. (Luke 8:41-56)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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 ThoughtI lift up my eyes to the mountains.
From where does my help come?
My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot be moved;
he who keeps you will not slumber.
Behold, he who keeps Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord is your keeper;
the Lord is your shade on your right hand.
The sun shall not strike you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all evil;
he will keep your life.
The Lord will keep
your going out and your coming in
from this time forth and forevermore.
Psalm 121
Sunday October 13, 2019, Sunday of the 7th Ecumenical Council
This Week's Services and Events
October 15, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF at the IMU, 6:00PM
October 16, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapter 9), 7:30PM
October 19, Saturday
+ Reader's Vespers, 5:00PM
October 20, Sunday (18th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
+ Intro to Orthodoxy Class, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Fr. Ignatius is Travelling
Fr. Ignatius will be out of town from the evening of October 15 until the evening of October 19. He will be available by phone during this time. There will be no office hours of Hour Prayers during these days.
Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
October 16- Luke 9 The Feeding of the 5,000 and the Transfiguration
October 23- Luke 10-11 The Good Samaritan, Mary and Martha, Prayer
October 30- Luke 12-14 Parables and Miracles: How to Regard the Things of This World
Kitchen Update and October Challenge Gift
We have received both a gift and an exciting challenge to help us complete our Kitchen! First, an update on our kitchen progress: Irakliy has been working hard to open the wall between the old coal room and the new kitchen area downstairs. He has prepared the walls for drywall and laid the groundwork for our next steps. He and Newman and Kristi are now preparing drawings to submit to the City for the appropriate building permits. The majority of the furnishings and appliances we need have been donated. Once our plans and permits are approved, the next steps will be completing the necessary plumbing and electrical work. We will need to hire licensed professionals to do that work for us. This will be the biggest expense of the project. We are obtaining estimates for this work. The exciting news is that we have received a $2000 challenge gift! The generous donors have challenged the congregation to match their $2000 gift during the month of October. $4000 will bring us a long way toward completing this project! If you’d like to donate, please mark your gift clearly for the Kitchen. If you would like to spread your gift over the rest of the year, you can pick up a form and let us know what schedule of giving would work for you. I’ll be giving regular updates throughout the month of October.
Pledge Packets Are Being Distributed Now
Information and forms for financial and other pledges to our church for the year 2020 are now being distributed. Extra copies are available in the narthex. Talk with our treasurer Karen if you have any questions. Please pray and consider how you can support St. Raphael Church in the upcoming year, and return your pledge forms by November 3 to our treasurer Karen Kuntz.
Intro to Orthodoxy Classes
Would you, or somebody you know like to learn some of the basics of the Orthodox Christian faith? All are welcome. Beginning on October 13 and meeting consecutively for six Sundays at 1:00PM, this class will give attendees the opportunity to learn some of the basic theology, history and practices of the Orthodox Church. This class is appropriate for both newcomers, and for old timers who want a refresher. If you plan to attend but haven't let Fr. Ignatius know yet, please contact him. The remaining schedule of classes is as follows:
Oct. 20- God and Humankind- Who is God and how do we relate to Him?
Oct. 27-The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
Nov. 3- Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
Nov. 10-Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Nov. 17- Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Special Olympics Awareness Day, October 20
Our youth will be asking you to consider giving to support the Special Olympics camp that takes place at the Antiochian Village in Pennsylvania each year.
Semi-annual Church Building and Grounds Clean-up Day, October 26
From 1:00PM until 5:00PM on Saturday, October 26, we will be working to clean up our building and our yard in order that all is looking sparkly for our patronal feast day commemorations the next weekend.
We Are All Greeters
We are very thankful for the people who serve as greeters/ushers to welcome guests and newcomers to our church. This is an important ministry. Although we have people who have volunteered to do this, each of us are are encouraged to warmly greet anyone who we don't know at church and make sure they feel welcome and comfortable. If you see someone you don't know, introduce yourself, ask them if this is their first visit, tell them that the priest is happy to contact them if they would like, and show them where the guest contact cards are in the narthex, so that they have an opportunity to leave their information in order to be contacted in the future.
Parking on October 27
The annual Run for the Schools road race will be in our neighborhood and on our street on Sunday, October 27. It will not be possible to park on College St. or the surrounding streets due to road closures. Please plan to park further away and walk in. Entering the Chauncey Swan parking garage on Washington St. will likely be your best option.
Patronal Feast Day of St. Raphael, November 1 & 2
We will celebrate our patron saint and his service to our Lord with Vespers at 7:00PM on Friday, November 1 and Matins and Liturgy at 8:30 and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 2.
Ancient and Marvelous: The Life of Fr. Nicola Yanney
The first priest that St. Raphael ordained was Fr. Nicola Yanney, pastor of St. George Church in Kearney, Nebraska. Like St. Raphael, Fr. Nicola was a missionary and traveled extensively. He was a circuit-riding priest who ministered throughout the Great Plains states, including Iowa. He also suffered deeply and experienced great loss, but remained faithful to what God had called him. A new documentary on his life can be watched here: https://vimeo.com/365128189 and a new book on his life can be purchased from Ancient Faith Publishing here: https://store.ancientfaith.com/apostle-to-the-plains-the-life-of-father-nicola-yanney/
Are You a Coffee Drinker?
If you buy "Byzantine Coffee" (www.byzantinecoffee.com) you can help a growing mission in Texas, and simultaneously help St. Raphael Church as well. Go to their site, order some coffee, either a one time purchase or an ongoing subscription, enter in a special code for St. Raphael Church (to be found on their website) and both St. Katherine Mission in Burleson, Texas and St. Raphael Church receive a portion of the purchase price. Buy some for yourself. Give some as a gift!
St. Raphael Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry is always accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Some of the more popular items with are guests are peanut butter, jelly/jam, canned tuna, canned chicken, chili, soups with meat such as chicken noodle or steak and potatoes, and canned fruit. Please consider making a donation of food the next time you are at church.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is opposite Galilee. And as He stepped out on land, there met Him a man from the city who had demons; for a long time he had worn no clothes, and he lived not in a house but among the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him, and said with a loud voice, “What hast Thou to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beseech Thee, do not torment me.” For Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. [For many a time it had seized him; he was kept under guard, and bound with chains and fetters, but he broke the bonds and was driven by the demon into the desert.] Jesus then asked him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion”; for many demons had entered him. And they begged Jesus not to command them to depart into the abyss. Now a large herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside; and they begged Jesus to let them enter these. So He gave them leave. Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned. When the herdsmen saw what had happened, they fled, and told it in the city and in the country. Then people went out to see what had happened, and they came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had gone, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. And those who had seen it told them how he who had been possessed with demons was healed. Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gadarenes asked Jesus to depart from them; for they were seized with great fear; so He got into the boat and returned. The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with Jesus; but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return to your home, and declare all that God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city all that Jesus had done for him. (Luke 8:26-39)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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 a person earnestly seeks salvation with his whole heart, God will lead him to a true instructor. Do not worry, each will find the one who is just right for him."
-- St. Leo of Optina
October 15, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF at the IMU, 6:00PM
October 16, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapter 9), 7:30PM
October 19, Saturday
+ Reader's Vespers, 5:00PM
October 20, Sunday (18th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
+ Intro to Orthodoxy Class, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Fr. Ignatius is Travelling
Fr. Ignatius will be out of town from the evening of October 15 until the evening of October 19. He will be available by phone during this time. There will be no office hours of Hour Prayers during these days.
Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
October 16- Luke 9 The Feeding of the 5,000 and the Transfiguration
October 23- Luke 10-11 The Good Samaritan, Mary and Martha, Prayer
October 30- Luke 12-14 Parables and Miracles: How to Regard the Things of This World
Kitchen Update and October Challenge Gift
We have received both a gift and an exciting challenge to help us complete our Kitchen! First, an update on our kitchen progress: Irakliy has been working hard to open the wall between the old coal room and the new kitchen area downstairs. He has prepared the walls for drywall and laid the groundwork for our next steps. He and Newman and Kristi are now preparing drawings to submit to the City for the appropriate building permits. The majority of the furnishings and appliances we need have been donated. Once our plans and permits are approved, the next steps will be completing the necessary plumbing and electrical work. We will need to hire licensed professionals to do that work for us. This will be the biggest expense of the project. We are obtaining estimates for this work. The exciting news is that we have received a $2000 challenge gift! The generous donors have challenged the congregation to match their $2000 gift during the month of October. $4000 will bring us a long way toward completing this project! If you’d like to donate, please mark your gift clearly for the Kitchen. If you would like to spread your gift over the rest of the year, you can pick up a form and let us know what schedule of giving would work for you. I’ll be giving regular updates throughout the month of October.
Pledge Packets Are Being Distributed Now
Information and forms for financial and other pledges to our church for the year 2020 are now being distributed. Extra copies are available in the narthex. Talk with our treasurer Karen if you have any questions. Please pray and consider how you can support St. Raphael Church in the upcoming year, and return your pledge forms by November 3 to our treasurer Karen Kuntz.
Intro to Orthodoxy Classes
Would you, or somebody you know like to learn some of the basics of the Orthodox Christian faith? All are welcome. Beginning on October 13 and meeting consecutively for six Sundays at 1:00PM, this class will give attendees the opportunity to learn some of the basic theology, history and practices of the Orthodox Church. This class is appropriate for both newcomers, and for old timers who want a refresher. If you plan to attend but haven't let Fr. Ignatius know yet, please contact him. The remaining schedule of classes is as follows:
Oct. 20- God and Humankind- Who is God and how do we relate to Him?
Oct. 27-The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
Nov. 3- Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
Nov. 10-Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Nov. 17- Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Special Olympics Awareness Day, October 20
Our youth will be asking you to consider giving to support the Special Olympics camp that takes place at the Antiochian Village in Pennsylvania each year.
Semi-annual Church Building and Grounds Clean-up Day, October 26
From 1:00PM until 5:00PM on Saturday, October 26, we will be working to clean up our building and our yard in order that all is looking sparkly for our patronal feast day commemorations the next weekend.
We Are All Greeters
We are very thankful for the people who serve as greeters/ushers to welcome guests and newcomers to our church. This is an important ministry. Although we have people who have volunteered to do this, each of us are are encouraged to warmly greet anyone who we don't know at church and make sure they feel welcome and comfortable. If you see someone you don't know, introduce yourself, ask them if this is their first visit, tell them that the priest is happy to contact them if they would like, and show them where the guest contact cards are in the narthex, so that they have an opportunity to leave their information in order to be contacted in the future.
Parking on October 27
The annual Run for the Schools road race will be in our neighborhood and on our street on Sunday, October 27. It will not be possible to park on College St. or the surrounding streets due to road closures. Please plan to park further away and walk in. Entering the Chauncey Swan parking garage on Washington St. will likely be your best option.
Patronal Feast Day of St. Raphael, November 1 & 2
We will celebrate our patron saint and his service to our Lord with Vespers at 7:00PM on Friday, November 1 and Matins and Liturgy at 8:30 and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 2.
Ancient and Marvelous: The Life of Fr. Nicola Yanney
The first priest that St. Raphael ordained was Fr. Nicola Yanney, pastor of St. George Church in Kearney, Nebraska. Like St. Raphael, Fr. Nicola was a missionary and traveled extensively. He was a circuit-riding priest who ministered throughout the Great Plains states, including Iowa. He also suffered deeply and experienced great loss, but remained faithful to what God had called him. A new documentary on his life can be watched here: https://vimeo.com/365128189 and a new book on his life can be purchased from Ancient Faith Publishing here: https://store.ancientfaith.com/apostle-to-the-plains-the-life-of-father-nicola-yanney/
Are You a Coffee Drinker?
If you buy "Byzantine Coffee" (www.byzantinecoffee.com) you can help a growing mission in Texas, and simultaneously help St. Raphael Church as well. Go to their site, order some coffee, either a one time purchase or an ongoing subscription, enter in a special code for St. Raphael Church (to be found on their website) and both St. Katherine Mission in Burleson, Texas and St. Raphael Church receive a portion of the purchase price. Buy some for yourself. Give some as a gift!
St. Raphael Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry is always accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Some of the more popular items with are guests are peanut butter, jelly/jam, canned tuna, canned chicken, chili, soups with meat such as chicken noodle or steak and potatoes, and canned fruit. Please consider making a donation of food the next time you are at church.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is opposite Galilee. And as He stepped out on land, there met Him a man from the city who had demons; for a long time he had worn no clothes, and he lived not in a house but among the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him, and said with a loud voice, “What hast Thou to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beseech Thee, do not torment me.” For Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. [For many a time it had seized him; he was kept under guard, and bound with chains and fetters, but he broke the bonds and was driven by the demon into the desert.] Jesus then asked him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion”; for many demons had entered him. And they begged Jesus not to command them to depart into the abyss. Now a large herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside; and they begged Jesus to let them enter these. So He gave them leave. Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned. When the herdsmen saw what had happened, they fled, and told it in the city and in the country. Then people went out to see what had happened, and they came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had gone, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. And those who had seen it told them how he who had been possessed with demons was healed. Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gadarenes asked Jesus to depart from them; for they were seized with great fear; so He got into the boat and returned. The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with Jesus; but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return to your home, and declare all that God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city all that Jesus had done for him. (Luke 8:26-39)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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 a person earnestly seeks salvation with his whole heart, God will lead him to a true instructor. Do not worry, each will find the one who is just right for him."
-- St. Leo of Optina
Sunday October 6, 2019, 16th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
October 7, Monday
+ Dinner with Deacon Stephanos Bibas, 6:30PM
October 8, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ "Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness" by Deacon Stephanos Bibas, 7:30PM
October 9, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapters 7 & 8), 7:30PM
October 10, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 11, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
October 12, Saturday
+ Choir Rehearsal, 8:45AM
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 13, Sunday (Sunday of the 7th Ecumenical Council)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
+ Intro to Orthodoxy Class, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Thank You
Many great improvements are happening around our church. Thank you to Luci Cetlaus and Elizabeth Michael who have recently painted the mailbox, front doors and windowframes and polished the metalwork on the doors. Thank you to Kristi Abuissa for repairing a toilet lid in the women's bathroom. Thank you to Musa and Marwan Abuissa for installing door stops on the doors leading into the nave.
Today is College Student Sunday
The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops has designated October 6, 2019 as College Student Sunday, in conjunction with Orthodox Christian Fellowship's declaration of October being Orthodox Awareness Month. We are honored and grateful to sponsor the local chapter of OCF at the University of Iowa. Our college students are an important part of our community. Our OCF is seeking willing hosts to invite a group of 5-10 students in to their homes for a home-cooked meal and a chance to get to know each other and people from the church. If you would like to host an OCF Dinner party, please contact Fr. Ignatius. Possible dates include November 12 or 19. This is one very appreciated way to show your support for the Orthodox college students at the University of Iowa.
"Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness"
We are honored to welcome back into our midst one of our parish's founding members, Deacon Stephanos Bibas. He will be giving a talk at our church titled "Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness" at 7:30pm on Tuesday, October 8. Appetizers will be served. Deacon Stephanos was recently nominated, confirmed and commissioned as a Federal judge for the US Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia, PA. As both an Orthodox deacon and a federal judge, he is sure to have an interesting perspective on mercy and forgiveness.
Choir Rehearsal
Our choir will be starting rehearsal with breakfast at 8:45AM. Songs to practice include some of the material for our patronal feast day services the first weekend of November. Rehearsal will end by noon.
Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
October 9- Luke 7-8 Miracles and Teachings: Who Are Jesus's Family?
October 16- Luke 9 The Feeding of the 5,000 and the Transfiguration
October 23- Luke 10-11 The Good Samaritan, Mary and Martha, Prayer
Kitchen Update and October Challenge Gift
We have received both a gift and an exciting challenge to help us complete our Kitchen! First, an update on our kitchen progress: Irakliy has been working hard to open the wall between the old coal room and the new kitchen area downstairs. He has prepared the walls for drywall and laid the groundwork for our next steps. He and Newman and Kristi are now preparing drawings to submit to the City for the appropriate building permits. The majority of the furnishings and appliances we need have been donated. Once our plans and permits are approved, the next steps will be completing the necessary plumbing and electrical work. We will need to hire licensed professionals to do that work for us. This will be the biggest expense of the project. We are obtaining estimates for this work. The exciting news is that we have received a $2000 challenge gift! The generous donors have challenged the congregation to match their $2000 gift during the month of October. $4000 will bring us a long way toward completing this project! If you’d like to donate, please mark your gift clearly for the Kitchen. If you would like to spread your gift over the rest of the year, you can pick up a form and let us know what schedule of giving would work for you. I’ll be giving regular updates throughout the month of October.
Pledge Packets Are Being Distributed Now
Information and forms for financial and other pledges to our church for the year 2020 are now being distributed. Extra copies are available in the narthex. Talk with our treasurer Karen if you have any questions.
Intro to Orthodoxy Classes
Would you, or somebody you know like to learn some of the basics of the Orthodox Christian faith? All are welcome. Beginning on October 13 and meeting consecutively for six Sundays at 1:00PM, this class will give attendees the opportunity to learn some of the basic theology, history and practices of the Orthodox Church. This class is appropriate for both newcomers, and for old timers who want a refresher. If you plan to attend but haven't let Fr. Ignatius know yet, please contact him. The schedule of classes will be as follows:
1. Oct. 13- Holy Tradition- What are the sources of authority in the Orthodox Church?
2. Oct. 20- God and Humankind- Who is God and how do we relate to Him?
3. Oct. 27-The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
4. Nov. 3- Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
5. Nov. 10-Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
6. Nov. 17- Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Special Olympics Awareness Day, October 20
Our youth will be asking you to consider giving to support the Special Olympics camp that takes place at the Antiochian Village in Pennsylvania each year.
Semi-annual Church Building and Grounds Clean-up Day, October 26
From 1:00PM until 5:00PM on Saturday, October 26, we will be working to clean up our building and our yard in order that all is looking sparkly for our patronal feast day commemorations the next weekend.
Patronal Feast Day of St. Raphael, November 1 & 2
We will celebrate our patron saint and his service to our Lord with Vespers at 7:00PM on Friday, November 1 and Matins and Liturgy at 8:30 and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 2.
Are You a Coffee Drinker?
If you buy "Byzantine Coffee" (www.byzantinecoffee.com) you can help a growing mission in Texas, and simultaneously help St. Raphael Church as well. Go to their site, order some coffee, either a one time purchase or an ongoing subscription, enter in a special code for St. Raphael Church (to be found on their website) and both St. Katherine Mission in Burleson, Texas and St. Raphael Church receive a portion of the purchase price. Buy some for yourself. Give some as a gift!
Are You a J.R.R. Tolkien Fan?
Then you may be interested in the Amon Sul podcast hosted by Fr. Andrew Damick on Ancient Faith Radio. And you may be especially interested in the latest episode, in which our own Dr. Lori Branch joins Fr. Andrew as guest co-host as they discuss the theme of hope in Tolkien's literature. To listen, go here: https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/amonsul/011_oft_hope_is_born_when_all_is_forlorn
St. Raphael Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry is always accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Some of the more popular items with are guests are peanut butter, jelly/jam, canned tuna, canned chicken, chili, soups with meat such as chicken noodle or steak and potatoes, and canned fruit. Please consider making a donation of food the next time you are at church.
Is St. Raphael Church Important to You?
There are many ways to show your appreciation and support for St. Raphael Church, including volunteering, praying and donating. Donating is as easy as making going to our online donation site at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/serve--donate.html No amount is too small.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew, and yielded a hundredfold.” And when His Disciples asked Him what this parable meant, Jesus said, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God; but for others they are in parables, so that seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy; but these have no root, they believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way, they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. And as for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience.” As Jesus said this, He called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Luke 8:5-15)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
To repent is not to look downwards at my own shortcomings, but upwards at God's love. It is not to look backward with self-reproach but forward with trustfulness. It is to see not what I have failed to be, but what, by the grace of Christ I might yet become.
- St. John Climacus
October 7, Monday
+ Dinner with Deacon Stephanos Bibas, 6:30PM
October 8, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ "Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness" by Deacon Stephanos Bibas, 7:30PM
October 9, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapters 7 & 8), 7:30PM
October 10, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 11, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
October 12, Saturday
+ Choir Rehearsal, 8:45AM
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 13, Sunday (Sunday of the 7th Ecumenical Council)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
+ Intro to Orthodoxy Class, 1:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Thank You
Many great improvements are happening around our church. Thank you to Luci Cetlaus and Elizabeth Michael who have recently painted the mailbox, front doors and windowframes and polished the metalwork on the doors. Thank you to Kristi Abuissa for repairing a toilet lid in the women's bathroom. Thank you to Musa and Marwan Abuissa for installing door stops on the doors leading into the nave.
Today is College Student Sunday
The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops has designated October 6, 2019 as College Student Sunday, in conjunction with Orthodox Christian Fellowship's declaration of October being Orthodox Awareness Month. We are honored and grateful to sponsor the local chapter of OCF at the University of Iowa. Our college students are an important part of our community. Our OCF is seeking willing hosts to invite a group of 5-10 students in to their homes for a home-cooked meal and a chance to get to know each other and people from the church. If you would like to host an OCF Dinner party, please contact Fr. Ignatius. Possible dates include November 12 or 19. This is one very appreciated way to show your support for the Orthodox college students at the University of Iowa.
"Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness"
We are honored to welcome back into our midst one of our parish's founding members, Deacon Stephanos Bibas. He will be giving a talk at our church titled "Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness" at 7:30pm on Tuesday, October 8. Appetizers will be served. Deacon Stephanos was recently nominated, confirmed and commissioned as a Federal judge for the US Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia, PA. As both an Orthodox deacon and a federal judge, he is sure to have an interesting perspective on mercy and forgiveness.
Choir Rehearsal
Our choir will be starting rehearsal with breakfast at 8:45AM. Songs to practice include some of the material for our patronal feast day services the first weekend of November. Rehearsal will end by noon.
Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
October 9- Luke 7-8 Miracles and Teachings: Who Are Jesus's Family?
October 16- Luke 9 The Feeding of the 5,000 and the Transfiguration
October 23- Luke 10-11 The Good Samaritan, Mary and Martha, Prayer
Kitchen Update and October Challenge Gift
We have received both a gift and an exciting challenge to help us complete our Kitchen! First, an update on our kitchen progress: Irakliy has been working hard to open the wall between the old coal room and the new kitchen area downstairs. He has prepared the walls for drywall and laid the groundwork for our next steps. He and Newman and Kristi are now preparing drawings to submit to the City for the appropriate building permits. The majority of the furnishings and appliances we need have been donated. Once our plans and permits are approved, the next steps will be completing the necessary plumbing and electrical work. We will need to hire licensed professionals to do that work for us. This will be the biggest expense of the project. We are obtaining estimates for this work. The exciting news is that we have received a $2000 challenge gift! The generous donors have challenged the congregation to match their $2000 gift during the month of October. $4000 will bring us a long way toward completing this project! If you’d like to donate, please mark your gift clearly for the Kitchen. If you would like to spread your gift over the rest of the year, you can pick up a form and let us know what schedule of giving would work for you. I’ll be giving regular updates throughout the month of October.
Pledge Packets Are Being Distributed Now
Information and forms for financial and other pledges to our church for the year 2020 are now being distributed. Extra copies are available in the narthex. Talk with our treasurer Karen if you have any questions.
Intro to Orthodoxy Classes
Would you, or somebody you know like to learn some of the basics of the Orthodox Christian faith? All are welcome. Beginning on October 13 and meeting consecutively for six Sundays at 1:00PM, this class will give attendees the opportunity to learn some of the basic theology, history and practices of the Orthodox Church. This class is appropriate for both newcomers, and for old timers who want a refresher. If you plan to attend but haven't let Fr. Ignatius know yet, please contact him. The schedule of classes will be as follows:
1. Oct. 13- Holy Tradition- What are the sources of authority in the Orthodox Church?
2. Oct. 20- God and Humankind- Who is God and how do we relate to Him?
3. Oct. 27-The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
4. Nov. 3- Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
5. Nov. 10-Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
6. Nov. 17- Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Special Olympics Awareness Day, October 20
Our youth will be asking you to consider giving to support the Special Olympics camp that takes place at the Antiochian Village in Pennsylvania each year.
Semi-annual Church Building and Grounds Clean-up Day, October 26
From 1:00PM until 5:00PM on Saturday, October 26, we will be working to clean up our building and our yard in order that all is looking sparkly for our patronal feast day commemorations the next weekend.
Patronal Feast Day of St. Raphael, November 1 & 2
We will celebrate our patron saint and his service to our Lord with Vespers at 7:00PM on Friday, November 1 and Matins and Liturgy at 8:30 and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 2.
Are You a Coffee Drinker?
If you buy "Byzantine Coffee" (www.byzantinecoffee.com) you can help a growing mission in Texas, and simultaneously help St. Raphael Church as well. Go to their site, order some coffee, either a one time purchase or an ongoing subscription, enter in a special code for St. Raphael Church (to be found on their website) and both St. Katherine Mission in Burleson, Texas and St. Raphael Church receive a portion of the purchase price. Buy some for yourself. Give some as a gift!
Are You a J.R.R. Tolkien Fan?
Then you may be interested in the Amon Sul podcast hosted by Fr. Andrew Damick on Ancient Faith Radio. And you may be especially interested in the latest episode, in which our own Dr. Lori Branch joins Fr. Andrew as guest co-host as they discuss the theme of hope in Tolkien's literature. To listen, go here: https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/amonsul/011_oft_hope_is_born_when_all_is_forlorn
St. Raphael Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry is always accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Some of the more popular items with are guests are peanut butter, jelly/jam, canned tuna, canned chicken, chili, soups with meat such as chicken noodle or steak and potatoes, and canned fruit. Please consider making a donation of food the next time you are at church.
Is St. Raphael Church Important to You?
There are many ways to show your appreciation and support for St. Raphael Church, including volunteering, praying and donating. Donating is as easy as making going to our online donation site at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/serve--donate.html No amount is too small.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew, and yielded a hundredfold.” And when His Disciples asked Him what this parable meant, Jesus said, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God; but for others they are in parables, so that seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy; but these have no root, they believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way, they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. And as for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience.” As Jesus said this, He called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Luke 8:5-15)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
To repent is not to look downwards at my own shortcomings, but upwards at God's love. It is not to look backward with self-reproach but forward with trustfulness. It is to see not what I have failed to be, but what, by the grace of Christ I might yet become.
- St. John Climacus
Sunday September 29, 2019, 15th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
October 1, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF at IMU, 6:00PM
October 2, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapters 6), 7:30PM
October 3, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 4, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
October 5, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 6, Sunday (16th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Memory eternal
Memorial flowers are placed in the church this weekend, in memory of Yelena Perkhounkova's mother Vera. May her memory be eternal!
Free Lunch Program Volunteering
Fr. Ignatius will be helping serve food at the Free Lunch Program (1105 S. Gilbert Ct.) on October 3 from 11:30AM-1:00PM. If you would like to join him, please let him know.
Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
October 2- Luke 6 The Core of Jesus' Teaching- The Sermon on the Plain
October 9- Luke 7-8 Miracles and Teachings: Who Are Jesus's Family
October 16- Luke 9 The Feeding of the 5,000 and the Transfiguration
Kitchen Update and October Challenge Gift
We have received both a gift and an exciting challenge to help us complete our Kitchen! First, an update on our kitchen progress: Irakliy has been working hard to open the wall between the old coal room and the new kitchen area downstairs. He has prepared the walls for drywall and laid the groundwork for our next steps. He and Newman and Kristi are now preparing drawings to submit to the City for the appropriate building permits. The majority of the furnishings and appliances we need have been donated. Once our plans and permits are approved, the next steps will be completing the necessary plumbing and electrical work. We will need to hire licensed professionals to do that work for us. This will be the biggest expense of the project. We are obtaining estimates for this work. The exciting news is that we have received a $2000 challenge gift! The generous donors have challenged the congregation to match their $2000 gift during the month of October. $4000 will bring us a long way toward completing this project! If you’d like to donate, please mark your gift clearly for the Kitchen. If you would like to spread your gift over the rest of the year, you can pick up a form and let us know what schedule of giving would work for you. I’ll be giving regular updates throughout the month of October.
Pledge Packets Being Distributed Next Sunday
Information and forms for financial and other pledges to our church for the year 2020 will start to be distributed next Sunday, October 6.
"Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness", New Time!
We are honored to welcome back into our midst one of our parish's founding members, Deacon Stephanos Bibas. He will be giving a talk at our church titled "Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness" at 7:30pm on Tuesday, October 8. Appetizers will be served. A promotional poster is here. Please pass it around to those who may be interested. Deacon Stephanos was recently nominated, confirmed and commissioned as a Federal judge for the US Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia, PA. As both an Orthodox deacon and a federal judge, he is sure to have an interesting perspective on mercy and forgiveness.
Dinner With Deacon Stephanos, October 7
The Abuissa family has graciously offered to host a meal at 6:30PM on Monday, October 7 at the church. There will be no cost for this home cooked dinner. An RSVP is appreciated.
Intro to Orthodoxy Classes
Would you, or somebody you know like to learn some of the basics of the Orthodox Christian faith? All are welcome. Beginning on October 13 and meeting consecutively for six Sundays at 1:00PM, this class will give attendees the opportunity to learn some of the basic theology, history and practices of the Orthodox Church. This class is appropriate for both newcomers, and for old timers who want a refresher. If you plan to attend but haven't let Fr. Ignatius know yet, please contact him. The schedule of classes will be as follows:
1. Oct. 13- Holy Tradition- What are the sources of authority in the Orthodox Church?
2. Oct. 20- God and Humankind- Who is God and how do we relate to Him?
3. Oct. 27-The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
4. Nov. 3- Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
5. Nov. 10-Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
6. Nov. 17- Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Are You a J.R.R. Tolkien Fan?
Then you may be interested in the Amon Sul podcast hosted by Fr. Andrew Damick on Ancient Faith Radio. And you may be especially interested in the latest episode, in which our own Dr. Lori Branch joins Fr. Andrew as guest co-host as they discuss the theme of hope in Tolkien's literature. To listen, go here: https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/amonsul/011_oft_hope_is_born_when_all_is_forlorn
Blessing Food for Coffee Hour
Now that our Sunday School is no longer meeting after Liturgy, and we do not need to keep people out of the fellowship hall to minimize noise conflict, there is no reason to have a 10-15 minute break between the dismissal of liturgy and the start of coffee hour. Therefore, Fr. Ignatius will be blessing the food before everyone is dismissed from liturgy and people can go ahead and eat as soon as the food is set up.
St. Raphael Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry is always accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Some of the more popular items with are guests are peanut butter, jelly/jam, canned tuna, canned chicken, chili, soups with meat such as chicken noodle or steak and potatoes, and canned fruit. Please consider making a donation of food the next time you are at church.
Is St. Raphael Church Important to You?
There are many ways to show your appreciation and support for St. Raphael Church, including volunteering, praying and donating. Donating is as easy as making going to our online donation site at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/serve--donate.html No amount is too small.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus went to a city called Nain, and many of His disciples and a great crowd went with Him. As He drew near to the gate of the city, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a large crowd from the city waswith her. And when the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.”And He came and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And Jesus said, “Young man, I say to you: arise.” And the dead man sat up, and began to speak. And Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all; and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and “God has visited His people!” (Luke 7:11-16)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
“Sometimes men are tested by pleasure, sometimes by distress or by physical suffering. By means of His prescriptions the Physician of souls administers the remedy according to the cause of the passions lying hidden in the soul.”
+ St. Maximos the Confessor, Four Hundred Texts on Love 2.44
October 1, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF at IMU, 6:00PM
October 2, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapters 6), 7:30PM
October 3, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 4, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
October 5, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 6, Sunday (16th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Memory eternal
Memorial flowers are placed in the church this weekend, in memory of Yelena Perkhounkova's mother Vera. May her memory be eternal!
Free Lunch Program Volunteering
Fr. Ignatius will be helping serve food at the Free Lunch Program (1105 S. Gilbert Ct.) on October 3 from 11:30AM-1:00PM. If you would like to join him, please let him know.
Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
October 2- Luke 6 The Core of Jesus' Teaching- The Sermon on the Plain
October 9- Luke 7-8 Miracles and Teachings: Who Are Jesus's Family
October 16- Luke 9 The Feeding of the 5,000 and the Transfiguration
Kitchen Update and October Challenge Gift
We have received both a gift and an exciting challenge to help us complete our Kitchen! First, an update on our kitchen progress: Irakliy has been working hard to open the wall between the old coal room and the new kitchen area downstairs. He has prepared the walls for drywall and laid the groundwork for our next steps. He and Newman and Kristi are now preparing drawings to submit to the City for the appropriate building permits. The majority of the furnishings and appliances we need have been donated. Once our plans and permits are approved, the next steps will be completing the necessary plumbing and electrical work. We will need to hire licensed professionals to do that work for us. This will be the biggest expense of the project. We are obtaining estimates for this work. The exciting news is that we have received a $2000 challenge gift! The generous donors have challenged the congregation to match their $2000 gift during the month of October. $4000 will bring us a long way toward completing this project! If you’d like to donate, please mark your gift clearly for the Kitchen. If you would like to spread your gift over the rest of the year, you can pick up a form and let us know what schedule of giving would work for you. I’ll be giving regular updates throughout the month of October.
Pledge Packets Being Distributed Next Sunday
Information and forms for financial and other pledges to our church for the year 2020 will start to be distributed next Sunday, October 6.
"Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness", New Time!
We are honored to welcome back into our midst one of our parish's founding members, Deacon Stephanos Bibas. He will be giving a talk at our church titled "Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness" at 7:30pm on Tuesday, October 8. Appetizers will be served. A promotional poster is here. Please pass it around to those who may be interested. Deacon Stephanos was recently nominated, confirmed and commissioned as a Federal judge for the US Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia, PA. As both an Orthodox deacon and a federal judge, he is sure to have an interesting perspective on mercy and forgiveness.
Dinner With Deacon Stephanos, October 7
The Abuissa family has graciously offered to host a meal at 6:30PM on Monday, October 7 at the church. There will be no cost for this home cooked dinner. An RSVP is appreciated.
Intro to Orthodoxy Classes
Would you, or somebody you know like to learn some of the basics of the Orthodox Christian faith? All are welcome. Beginning on October 13 and meeting consecutively for six Sundays at 1:00PM, this class will give attendees the opportunity to learn some of the basic theology, history and practices of the Orthodox Church. This class is appropriate for both newcomers, and for old timers who want a refresher. If you plan to attend but haven't let Fr. Ignatius know yet, please contact him. The schedule of classes will be as follows:
1. Oct. 13- Holy Tradition- What are the sources of authority in the Orthodox Church?
2. Oct. 20- God and Humankind- Who is God and how do we relate to Him?
3. Oct. 27-The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
4. Nov. 3- Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
5. Nov. 10-Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
6. Nov. 17- Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Are You a J.R.R. Tolkien Fan?
Then you may be interested in the Amon Sul podcast hosted by Fr. Andrew Damick on Ancient Faith Radio. And you may be especially interested in the latest episode, in which our own Dr. Lori Branch joins Fr. Andrew as guest co-host as they discuss the theme of hope in Tolkien's literature. To listen, go here: https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/amonsul/011_oft_hope_is_born_when_all_is_forlorn
Blessing Food for Coffee Hour
Now that our Sunday School is no longer meeting after Liturgy, and we do not need to keep people out of the fellowship hall to minimize noise conflict, there is no reason to have a 10-15 minute break between the dismissal of liturgy and the start of coffee hour. Therefore, Fr. Ignatius will be blessing the food before everyone is dismissed from liturgy and people can go ahead and eat as soon as the food is set up.
St. Raphael Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry is always accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Some of the more popular items with are guests are peanut butter, jelly/jam, canned tuna, canned chicken, chili, soups with meat such as chicken noodle or steak and potatoes, and canned fruit. Please consider making a donation of food the next time you are at church.
Is St. Raphael Church Important to You?
There are many ways to show your appreciation and support for St. Raphael Church, including volunteering, praying and donating. Donating is as easy as making going to our online donation site at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/serve--donate.html No amount is too small.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus went to a city called Nain, and many of His disciples and a great crowd went with Him. As He drew near to the gate of the city, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a large crowd from the city waswith her. And when the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.”And He came and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And Jesus said, “Young man, I say to you: arise.” And the dead man sat up, and began to speak. And Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all; and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and “God has visited His people!” (Luke 7:11-16)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
“Sometimes men are tested by pleasure, sometimes by distress or by physical suffering. By means of His prescriptions the Physician of souls administers the remedy according to the cause of the passions lying hidden in the soul.”
+ St. Maximos the Confessor, Four Hundred Texts on Love 2.44
Sunday September 22, 2019, 14th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
September 24, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 25, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapters 4 and 5), 7:30PM
September 26, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 27, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 28, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 29, Sunday (15th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
A Message from our Treasurer
To read the monthly message from Karen, see the attached note.
Thank You
Thank you to Musa and Marwan Abuissa for clearing out a plugged up downspout. Thank you to Maria Lucia Cetlaus and Elizabeth Michael for beginning our painting project. Our narthex has been deeply cleaned and now has a fresh coat of paint!
Blessing Food for Coffee Hour
Now that our Sunday School is no longer meeting after Liturgy, and we do not need to keep people out of the fellowship hall to minimize noise conflict, there is no reason to have a 10-15 minute break between the dismissal of liturgy and the start of coffee hour. Therefore, Fr. Ignatius will be blessing the food before everyone is dismissed from liturgy and people can go ahead and eat as soon as the food is set up.
Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
September 25- Luke 4-5 The Temptation in the Wilderness & Early Ministry of Jesus
October 2- Luke 6 The Core of Jesus' Teaching- The Sermon on the Plain
October 9- Luke 7-8 Miracles and Teachings: Who Are Jesus's Family
Camp St. George Tuition Fundraiser, September 29
The families of campers will be hosting coffee hour next Sunday, September 29. This is a fundraiser for camp tuition scholarships for next summer. Please consider giving a donation to help our children attend camp.
Help a Family in Need
One of our members, Jennifer Hope has been hospitalized multiple times in recent months and even when resting at home, is very limited in her movement and energy. She and her husband John would appreciate some home cooked meals for two. The only dietary restrictions are avoiding tomatoes and citrus. Thanks to Alli Rockwell for organizing a Meal Train at: https://mealtrain.com/9g6znv
"Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness", New Time!
We are honored to welcome back into our midst one of our parish's founding members, Deacon Stephanos Bibas. He will be giving a talk at our church titled "Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness" at 7:30pm on Tuesday, October 8. Appetizers will be served. A promotional poster is attached. Please pass it around to those who may be interested. Deacon Stephanos was recently nominated, confirmed and commissioned as a Federal judge for the US Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia, PA. As both an Orthodox deacon and a federal judge, he is sure to have an interesting perspective on mercy and forgiveness.
Dinner With Deacon Stephanos, October 7
Several people from St. Raphael Church are going out to dinner with Deacon Stephanos at 6:30PM on October 7. The location is yet to be decided. We will each pay for our own food. If you are interested, please RSVP to Fr. Ignatius before October 1.
Is St. Raphael Church Important to You?
There are many ways to show your appreciation and support for St. Raphael Church, including volunteering, praying and donating. Donating is as easy as making going to our online donation site at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/serve--donate.html No amount is too small.
No Need for Painting Work Parties
Plans have changed and the announced painting work parties scheduled for Saturdays in October have been cancelled. The painting will be taking place, but we have the necessary volunteers.
Intro to Orthodoxy Classes
Would you, or somebody you know like to learn some of the basics of the Orthodox Christian faith? All are welcome. Beginning on October 13 and meeting consecutively for six Sundays at 1:00PM, this class will give attendees the opportunity to learn some of the basic theology, history and practices of the Orthodox Church. This class is appropriate for both newcomers, and for old timers who want a refresher. The schedule of classes will be as follows:
1. Oct. 13- Holy Tradition- What are the sources of authority in the Orthodox Church?
2. Oct. 20- God and Humankind- Who is God and how do we relate to Him?
3. Oct. 27-The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
4. Nov. 3- Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
5. Nov. 10-Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
6. Nov. 17- Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
St. Raphael Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry is always accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Some of the more popular items with are guests are peanut butter, jelly/jam, canned tuna, canned chicken, chili, soups with meat such as chicken noodle or steak and potatoes, and canned fruit. Please consider making a donation of food the next time you are at church.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
Extraordinary People Needed
Volunteers are needed to teach at the Diocese of Kisumu and West Kenya Youth Seminar this December. This event draws hundreds of youth, ages 15-35, from throughout the diocese. Individuals with a desire to impact the future leaders of the Church of Kenya are needed to apply for this Team. Apply at www.ocmc.org. The dates of the team are December 8 – 17, 2019.
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?-
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
The Lord said: “As you wish that men would do to you, do so to them. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and the selfish. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:31-36)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil by good.
Romans 12:21
September 24, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 25, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapters 4 and 5), 7:30PM
September 26, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 27, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 28, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 29, Sunday (15th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
A Message from our Treasurer
To read the monthly message from Karen, see the attached note.
Thank You
Thank you to Musa and Marwan Abuissa for clearing out a plugged up downspout. Thank you to Maria Lucia Cetlaus and Elizabeth Michael for beginning our painting project. Our narthex has been deeply cleaned and now has a fresh coat of paint!
Blessing Food for Coffee Hour
Now that our Sunday School is no longer meeting after Liturgy, and we do not need to keep people out of the fellowship hall to minimize noise conflict, there is no reason to have a 10-15 minute break between the dismissal of liturgy and the start of coffee hour. Therefore, Fr. Ignatius will be blessing the food before everyone is dismissed from liturgy and people can go ahead and eat as soon as the food is set up.
Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
September 25- Luke 4-5 The Temptation in the Wilderness & Early Ministry of Jesus
October 2- Luke 6 The Core of Jesus' Teaching- The Sermon on the Plain
October 9- Luke 7-8 Miracles and Teachings: Who Are Jesus's Family
Camp St. George Tuition Fundraiser, September 29
The families of campers will be hosting coffee hour next Sunday, September 29. This is a fundraiser for camp tuition scholarships for next summer. Please consider giving a donation to help our children attend camp.
Help a Family in Need
One of our members, Jennifer Hope has been hospitalized multiple times in recent months and even when resting at home, is very limited in her movement and energy. She and her husband John would appreciate some home cooked meals for two. The only dietary restrictions are avoiding tomatoes and citrus. Thanks to Alli Rockwell for organizing a Meal Train at: https://mealtrain.com/9g6znv
"Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness", New Time!
We are honored to welcome back into our midst one of our parish's founding members, Deacon Stephanos Bibas. He will be giving a talk at our church titled "Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness" at 7:30pm on Tuesday, October 8. Appetizers will be served. A promotional poster is attached. Please pass it around to those who may be interested. Deacon Stephanos was recently nominated, confirmed and commissioned as a Federal judge for the US Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia, PA. As both an Orthodox deacon and a federal judge, he is sure to have an interesting perspective on mercy and forgiveness.
Dinner With Deacon Stephanos, October 7
Several people from St. Raphael Church are going out to dinner with Deacon Stephanos at 6:30PM on October 7. The location is yet to be decided. We will each pay for our own food. If you are interested, please RSVP to Fr. Ignatius before October 1.
Is St. Raphael Church Important to You?
There are many ways to show your appreciation and support for St. Raphael Church, including volunteering, praying and donating. Donating is as easy as making going to our online donation site at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/serve--donate.html No amount is too small.
No Need for Painting Work Parties
Plans have changed and the announced painting work parties scheduled for Saturdays in October have been cancelled. The painting will be taking place, but we have the necessary volunteers.
Intro to Orthodoxy Classes
Would you, or somebody you know like to learn some of the basics of the Orthodox Christian faith? All are welcome. Beginning on October 13 and meeting consecutively for six Sundays at 1:00PM, this class will give attendees the opportunity to learn some of the basic theology, history and practices of the Orthodox Church. This class is appropriate for both newcomers, and for old timers who want a refresher. The schedule of classes will be as follows:
1. Oct. 13- Holy Tradition- What are the sources of authority in the Orthodox Church?
2. Oct. 20- God and Humankind- Who is God and how do we relate to Him?
3. Oct. 27-The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
4. Nov. 3- Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
5. Nov. 10-Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
6. Nov. 17- Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
St. Raphael Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry is always accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Some of the more popular items with are guests are peanut butter, jelly/jam, canned tuna, canned chicken, chili, soups with meat such as chicken noodle or steak and potatoes, and canned fruit. Please consider making a donation of food the next time you are at church.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
Extraordinary People Needed
Volunteers are needed to teach at the Diocese of Kisumu and West Kenya Youth Seminar this December. This event draws hundreds of youth, ages 15-35, from throughout the diocese. Individuals with a desire to impact the future leaders of the Church of Kenya are needed to apply for this Team. Apply at www.ocmc.org. The dates of the team are December 8 – 17, 2019.
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?-
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
The Lord said: “As you wish that men would do to you, do so to them. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and the selfish. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:31-36)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil by good.
Romans 12:21
Sunday September 15, 2019, Sunday after the Elevation of the Cross
This Week's Services and Events
September 17, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF at IMU, 6:00PM
September 18, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapters 2 and 3), 7:30PM
September 19, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 20, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 21, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 22, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Wednesday Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
September 18- Luke 2-3 The Birth of Jesus, His Childhood and His Baptism
September 25- Luke 4-5 The Temptation in the Wilderness & Early Ministry of Jesus
October 2- Luke 6 The Core of Jesus' Teaching- The Sermon on the Plain
"Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness"
We are honored to welcome back into our midst one of our parish's founding members, Deacon Stephanos Bibas. He will be giving a talk at our church titled "Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness" at 7pm on Tuesday, October 8. Appetizers will be served. A promotional poster is attached. Please pass it around to those who may be interested. Deacon Stephanos was recently nominated, confirmed and commissioned as a Federal judge for the US Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia, PA. As both an Orthodox deacon and a federal judge, he is sure to have an interesting perspective on mercy and forgiveness.
Is St. Raphael Church Important to You?
There are many ways to show your appreciation and support for St. Raphael Church, including volunteering, praying and donating. Donating is as easy as making going to our online donation site at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/serve--donate.html No amount is to small.
Painting Work Parties
It's time to brighten up several parts of our church building with a fresh coat of paint. On the first three Saturdays of October (Oct. 5, 12, 19) from 9:00AM-4:00PM we will be working to paint the stairway, narthex and area downstairs around the coatroom/pantry and bookstore. If you have painting equipment, especially a sprayer, please bring it. Elizabeth Michael is coordinating this effort. Contact her at 319-383-6562 with any questions.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
New Sunday School Start Time
Because a majority of families with Sunday School children were willing to try a change in the start time of Sunday School this year, classes now begin at 9:20AM.
Additions to our Church Bookstore
We have recently acquired a selection of about 20 new titles of children's books on the lives of individual saints from the Paterikon for Kids series published by Potamitis Publishing. These colorful books are sure to delight and inform younger children and their parents. One of these new titles features our own patron, St. Raphael.
Extraordinary People Needed
Volunteers are needed to teach at the Diocese of Kisumu and West Kenya Youth Seminar this December. This event draws hundreds of youth, ages 15-35, from throughout the diocese. Individuals with a desire to impact the future leaders of the Church of Kenya are needed to apply for this Team. Apply at www.ocmc.org. The dates of the team are December 8 – 17, 2019.
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?-
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, he saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when he had ceased speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch." And Simon answered, "Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets." And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking, they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." For he was astonished, and all who were with him, at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men." And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him. (Luke 5:1-11)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
Come, all ye nations, let us worship the blessed Tree, through which was wrought the everlasting righteousness. For he that by a tree beguiled our forefather Adam, is himself ensnared by the Cross; and he that by tyranny gained dominion over the creation of the King, is by faith overthrown in utter ruin. By the Blood of God, the serpent’s poison is washed away; and the curse of a just condemnation is loosed by the unjust judgment passed against the Just One. For it was fitting that the wood should be healed by wood; and that the sufferings of him who was condemned because of the tree should be done away through the Passion of Him Who is passionless. But, O Christ our King, glory to Thy dread dispensation toward us, whereby Thou hast saved us all, since Thou art good and the Lover of mankind.
Doxastikon at "O Lord I have Cried" for Vespers of the Feast of the Elevation of the Cross
September 17, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF at IMU, 6:00PM
September 18, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapters 2 and 3), 7:30PM
September 19, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 20, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 21, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 22, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Wednesday Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
September 18- Luke 2-3 The Birth of Jesus, His Childhood and His Baptism
September 25- Luke 4-5 The Temptation in the Wilderness & Early Ministry of Jesus
October 2- Luke 6 The Core of Jesus' Teaching- The Sermon on the Plain
"Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness"
We are honored to welcome back into our midst one of our parish's founding members, Deacon Stephanos Bibas. He will be giving a talk at our church titled "Shying Away from Christian Mercy and Forgiveness" at 7pm on Tuesday, October 8. Appetizers will be served. A promotional poster is attached. Please pass it around to those who may be interested. Deacon Stephanos was recently nominated, confirmed and commissioned as a Federal judge for the US Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia, PA. As both an Orthodox deacon and a federal judge, he is sure to have an interesting perspective on mercy and forgiveness.
Is St. Raphael Church Important to You?
There are many ways to show your appreciation and support for St. Raphael Church, including volunteering, praying and donating. Donating is as easy as making going to our online donation site at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/serve--donate.html No amount is to small.
Painting Work Parties
It's time to brighten up several parts of our church building with a fresh coat of paint. On the first three Saturdays of October (Oct. 5, 12, 19) from 9:00AM-4:00PM we will be working to paint the stairway, narthex and area downstairs around the coatroom/pantry and bookstore. If you have painting equipment, especially a sprayer, please bring it. Elizabeth Michael is coordinating this effort. Contact her at 319-383-6562 with any questions.
40 Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again hosting the semi-annual 40 Days for Life Prayer Campaign this Fall. The dates are September 25- November 3. 40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 16,004 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 190 abortion workers and seen 103 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa! From 8AM-8PM everyday, prayer will be offered on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City). To learn more or to sign up to participate, go to: http://www.jcrtl.org/40-days-for-life-prayer-vigil.html
New Sunday School Start Time
Because a majority of families with Sunday School children were willing to try a change in the start time of Sunday School this year, classes now begin at 9:20AM.
Additions to our Church Bookstore
We have recently acquired a selection of about 20 new titles of children's books on the lives of individual saints from the Paterikon for Kids series published by Potamitis Publishing. These colorful books are sure to delight and inform younger children and their parents. One of these new titles features our own patron, St. Raphael.
Extraordinary People Needed
Volunteers are needed to teach at the Diocese of Kisumu and West Kenya Youth Seminar this December. This event draws hundreds of youth, ages 15-35, from throughout the diocese. Individuals with a desire to impact the future leaders of the Church of Kenya are needed to apply for this Team. Apply at www.ocmc.org. The dates of the team are December 8 – 17, 2019.
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?-
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, he saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when he had ceased speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch." And Simon answered, "Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets." And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking, they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." For he was astonished, and all who were with him, at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men." And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him. (Luke 5:1-11)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
Come, all ye nations, let us worship the blessed Tree, through which was wrought the everlasting righteousness. For he that by a tree beguiled our forefather Adam, is himself ensnared by the Cross; and he that by tyranny gained dominion over the creation of the King, is by faith overthrown in utter ruin. By the Blood of God, the serpent’s poison is washed away; and the curse of a just condemnation is loosed by the unjust judgment passed against the Just One. For it was fitting that the wood should be healed by wood; and that the sufferings of him who was condemned because of the tree should be done away through the Passion of Him Who is passionless. But, O Christ our King, glory to Thy dread dispensation toward us, whereby Thou hast saved us all, since Thou art good and the Lover of mankind.
Doxastikon at "O Lord I have Cried" for Vespers of the Feast of the Elevation of the Cross
Sunday September 8, 2019, Nativity of the Theotokos and Sunday before the Elevation of the Cross
This Week's Services and Events
September 10, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 11, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapter 1), 7:30PM
September 12, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 13, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 14, Saturday
+ Matins and Liturgy for the Elevation of the Precious Cross, 8:45AM and 10:00AM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 15, Sunday, (Sunday after the Elevation of the Cross)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour and Parish-wide Discussion
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Holy Fire from Jerusalem
Each year, immediately before Pascha, holy fire originates in a miraculous way at the tomb of Christ in Jerusalem. As was the case last year, people brought the holy fire in a lantern to America, and it has been getting passed around from church to church and taken into the homes of the faithful. We are blessed to have received the holy fire again at St. Raphael Church. If you desire to bring this to your home, bring a long-lasting candle in a jar or a liquid fuel lantern and ask Fr. Ignatius to share the fire with you.
Wednesday Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
September 11- Luke 1 The Conception of John & Jesus: "My soul magnifies the Lord"
September 18- Luke 2-3 The Birth of Jesus, His Childhood and His Baptism
September 25- Luke 4-5 The Temptation in the Wilderness & Early Ministry of Jesus
New Sunday School Start Time
Because a majority of families with Sunday School children were willing to try a change in the start time of Sunday School this year, classes now begin at 9:20AM.
Additions to our Church Bookstore
We have recently acquired a selection of about 20 new titles of children's books on the lives of individual saints from the Paterikon for Kids series published by Potamitis Publishing. These colorful books are sure to delight and inform younger children and their parents. One of these new titles features our own patron, St. Raphael.
Matins and Liturgy for Feast of the Elevation of the Precious Cross, September 14
We will celebrate the Feast of the Elevation of the Precious Cross with matins and liturgy at 8:45 and 10:00AM on Saturday, September 14.
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy. Printed material is being handed out and mailed to members in anticipation of this discussion.
Hold the Date!
We are honored to welcome back into our midst one of our parish's founding members, Deacon Stephanos Bibas. He will be giving a talk on mercy and forgiveness in both faith and law on the evening of October 8, details to be forthcoming. Deacon Stephanos was recently nominated, confirmed and commissioned as a Federal judge for the US Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia, PA. Judge Stephanos Bibas will be giving a talk at the University of Iowa earlier in the day.
Parish Survey
The Parish Council distributed a survey in the Spring which sought input on a variety of parish-related ideas. Thank you to all who took the time to share your thoughts. If you haven't filled out the survey and you would like to, go to: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSebu-8lSVkwcT9TnrwWBSRbSeONBfP6UdL-zltXSPJer5JQWA/viewform
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “If any man would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake and the Gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of Me and of My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” And He said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Kingdom of God come with power.” (Mark 8:34-9:1)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
"We should try to live in such a way that if the Gospels were lost, they could be rewritten by looking at us."
Metropolitan Anthony Bloom
September 10, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 11, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Gospel of Luke Discussion (Chapter 1), 7:30PM
September 12, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 13, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 14, Saturday
+ Matins and Liturgy for the Elevation of the Precious Cross, 8:45AM and 10:00AM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 15, Sunday, (Sunday after the Elevation of the Cross)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour and Parish-wide Discussion
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Holy Fire from Jerusalem
Each year, immediately before Pascha, holy fire originates in a miraculous way at the tomb of Christ in Jerusalem. As was the case last year, people brought the holy fire in a lantern to America, and it has been getting passed around from church to church and taken into the homes of the faithful. We are blessed to have received the holy fire again at St. Raphael Church. If you desire to bring this to your home, bring a long-lasting candle in a jar or a liquid fuel lantern and ask Fr. Ignatius to share the fire with you.
Wednesday Evening Prayer, Discussion and Fellowship
Each Wednesday at 6:50PM, we will pray an Akathist service. At 7:30PM, we will be discussing a chapter of St. Luke's Gospel. Following is the schedule for the next few weeks.
September 11- Luke 1 The Conception of John & Jesus: "My soul magnifies the Lord"
September 18- Luke 2-3 The Birth of Jesus, His Childhood and His Baptism
September 25- Luke 4-5 The Temptation in the Wilderness & Early Ministry of Jesus
New Sunday School Start Time
Because a majority of families with Sunday School children were willing to try a change in the start time of Sunday School this year, classes now begin at 9:20AM.
Additions to our Church Bookstore
We have recently acquired a selection of about 20 new titles of children's books on the lives of individual saints from the Paterikon for Kids series published by Potamitis Publishing. These colorful books are sure to delight and inform younger children and their parents. One of these new titles features our own patron, St. Raphael.
Matins and Liturgy for Feast of the Elevation of the Precious Cross, September 14
We will celebrate the Feast of the Elevation of the Precious Cross with matins and liturgy at 8:45 and 10:00AM on Saturday, September 14.
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy. Printed material is being handed out and mailed to members in anticipation of this discussion.
Hold the Date!
We are honored to welcome back into our midst one of our parish's founding members, Deacon Stephanos Bibas. He will be giving a talk on mercy and forgiveness in both faith and law on the evening of October 8, details to be forthcoming. Deacon Stephanos was recently nominated, confirmed and commissioned as a Federal judge for the US Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit in Philadelphia, PA. Judge Stephanos Bibas will be giving a talk at the University of Iowa earlier in the day.
Parish Survey
The Parish Council distributed a survey in the Spring which sought input on a variety of parish-related ideas. Thank you to all who took the time to share your thoughts. If you haven't filled out the survey and you would like to, go to: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSebu-8lSVkwcT9TnrwWBSRbSeONBfP6UdL-zltXSPJer5JQWA/viewform
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “If any man would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake and the Gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of Me and of My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” And He said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Kingdom of God come with power.” (Mark 8:34-9:1)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
"We should try to live in such a way that if the Gospels were lost, they could be rewritten by looking at us."
Metropolitan Anthony Bloom
Sunday September 1, 2019, The Indiction (Ecclesiastical New Year)
This Week's Services and Events
September 3, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 4, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ "Listening to God" talk at Iowa City Public Library, 7:00PM
September 5, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF meeting at IMU, 7:00PM
September 6, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 7, Saturday
+ Back to Sunday School Vespers and Ice Cream Social, 5:00PM
September 8, Sunday, (Nativity of the Theotokos and Sunday before the Elevation of the Cross)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Thank You
Thank you to Elizabeth Michael for recent work in clearing out brush and weeds in our back yard. Thank you to Irakliy Surguladze for framing the walls of our kitchen space and moving that project one step closer to completion. Thanks to several recent generous donations, we have most of the kitchen equipment and appliances we will need.
Happy New Year
September 1 marks the beginning of the Ecclesiastical Year, as decided upon at the First Ecumenical Council.
Joshua and Violence and Giants, Oh My!
The sermon given today by Fr. Ignatius dealt with the perceived problem of violence in the Book of Joshua in the narration of the conquest of Canaan by the Israelites. A copy of the sermon will be posted on the church's Facebook page. If you want to learn more about the interesting connection the Book of Joshua has with the ancient giants called Nephilim in the Book of Genesis, and how this gives us a different perspective on what was going on in those battles that we read about in Joshua, read Fr. Stephen De Young's excellent and thought provoking piece titled "Here There Be Giants" at: https://blogs.ancientfaith.com/wholecounsel/2018/10/09/here-there-be-giants/?fbclid=IwAR0tKvnh_XfrQllLBwtUoRfP8M4Y13__tXcUCcBcSehO5cZFb9S2jeF5eXM
Parking
Reminder- Especially on Hawkeye football home game weekends, parking is very difficult in the immediate neighborhood of the church. There is free Sunday parking in the Chauncey Swan Parking Garage a few blocks west on College St.
Holy Fire from Jerusalem
Each year, immediately before Pascha, holy fire originates in a miraculous way at the tomb of Christ in Jerusalem. As was the case last year, people brought the holy fire in a lantern to America, and it has been getting passed around from church to church and taken into the homes of the faithful. We are blessed to have received the holy fire again at St. Raphael Church. If you desire to bring this to your home, bring a long-lasting candle in a jar or a liquid fuel lantern and ask Fr. Ignatius to share the fire with you.
September/October Calendars
Calendars showing services and other events for the months of September and October are now printed and available.
Fall Lecture: Listening to God
Join us (and invite friends!) for a talk given by Lori Branch at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00PM. The title of the talk is "Listening to God: Ancient Christian Wisdom for Reading the Bible in a Post-Modern Age." Following this talk, we will meet on succeeding Wednesday evenings through the Fall at 7:30PM for a Bible study and discussion on the Gospel of Luke. A poster advertising this event is attached. Please pass it on to people who may be interested in attending. We depend on you to be our advertising department!
Here is the reading and discussion schedule for the next several weeks:
September 11- Luke 1 The Conception of John & Jesus: "My soul magnifies the Lord"
September 18- Luke 2-3 The Birth of Jesus, His Childhood and His Baptism
September 25- Luke 4-5 The Temptation in the Wilderness & Early Ministry of Jesus
Sunday School Begins September 7-8
Our Sunday School Year begins with a "Back to Sunday School Vespers and Ice Cream Social" from 5:00PM-7:00PM on Saturday, September 7. All children who can read and are interested will have an opportunity to participate by doing one or more of the readings. We encourage the whole parish to attend to encourage our students and to celebrate the beginning of the Sunday School year with them. When vespers finishes around 6:00PM we will stay and have some ice cream. Classes begin the following day, Sunday, September 8! We are trying a new start time for Sunday School this year. Class will begin at 9:20AM, coinciding with part of matins, and finish up in time for the beginning of Liturgy at 10:00AM.
Matins and Liturgy for Feast of the Elevation of the Precious Cross, September 14
We will celebrate the Feast of the Elevation of the Precious Cross with matins and liturgy at 8:45 and 10:00AM on Saturday, September 14.
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy. Printed material is being handed out and mailed to members in anticipation of this discussion.
Some Ways to Serve the Church
Anyone is welcome to read the Epistle during liturgy. It will always be read in English and we welcome it to be read in other languages as well. If you would like to read the Epistle reading, see our Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd). Also, we could always use more volunteers to serve as greeters on Sunday mornings. This job entails staying in the narthex and welcoming people as they come in, and helping visitors feel comfortable at our church. Brian Horak heads up the greeters. See him for more information.
Parish Survey
The Parish Council distributed a survey in the Spring which sought input on a variety of parish-related ideas. Thank you to all who took the time to share your thoughts. If you haven't filled out the survey and you would like to, go to: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSebu-8lSVkwcT9TnrwWBSRbSeONBfP6UdL-zltXSPJer5JQWA/viewform
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “No one has ascended into heaven but He who descended from heaven, the Son of man. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For, God sent His Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” (John 3:13-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
"Open, O doors and bolts of my heart, that Christ the King of Glory may enter!
Enter, O my Light, and enlighten my darkness;
Enter, O my Life, and resurrect my deadness;
Enter, O my Physician, and heal my wounds;
Enter, O Divine Fire, and burn up the thorns of my sins;
Ignite my inward parts and my heart with the flame of Thy love;
Enter, O my King, and destroy in me the kingdom of sin;
Sit on the throne of my heart and reign in me alone, O Thou, my King and Lord."
Prayer of St. Dimitri of Rostov
September 3, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 4, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ "Listening to God" talk at Iowa City Public Library, 7:00PM
September 5, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF meeting at IMU, 7:00PM
September 6, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 7, Saturday
+ Back to Sunday School Vespers and Ice Cream Social, 5:00PM
September 8, Sunday, (Nativity of the Theotokos and Sunday before the Elevation of the Cross)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Sunday School, 9:20AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Thank You
Thank you to Elizabeth Michael for recent work in clearing out brush and weeds in our back yard. Thank you to Irakliy Surguladze for framing the walls of our kitchen space and moving that project one step closer to completion. Thanks to several recent generous donations, we have most of the kitchen equipment and appliances we will need.
Happy New Year
September 1 marks the beginning of the Ecclesiastical Year, as decided upon at the First Ecumenical Council.
Joshua and Violence and Giants, Oh My!
The sermon given today by Fr. Ignatius dealt with the perceived problem of violence in the Book of Joshua in the narration of the conquest of Canaan by the Israelites. A copy of the sermon will be posted on the church's Facebook page. If you want to learn more about the interesting connection the Book of Joshua has with the ancient giants called Nephilim in the Book of Genesis, and how this gives us a different perspective on what was going on in those battles that we read about in Joshua, read Fr. Stephen De Young's excellent and thought provoking piece titled "Here There Be Giants" at: https://blogs.ancientfaith.com/wholecounsel/2018/10/09/here-there-be-giants/?fbclid=IwAR0tKvnh_XfrQllLBwtUoRfP8M4Y13__tXcUCcBcSehO5cZFb9S2jeF5eXM
Parking
Reminder- Especially on Hawkeye football home game weekends, parking is very difficult in the immediate neighborhood of the church. There is free Sunday parking in the Chauncey Swan Parking Garage a few blocks west on College St.
Holy Fire from Jerusalem
Each year, immediately before Pascha, holy fire originates in a miraculous way at the tomb of Christ in Jerusalem. As was the case last year, people brought the holy fire in a lantern to America, and it has been getting passed around from church to church and taken into the homes of the faithful. We are blessed to have received the holy fire again at St. Raphael Church. If you desire to bring this to your home, bring a long-lasting candle in a jar or a liquid fuel lantern and ask Fr. Ignatius to share the fire with you.
September/October Calendars
Calendars showing services and other events for the months of September and October are now printed and available.
Fall Lecture: Listening to God
Join us (and invite friends!) for a talk given by Lori Branch at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00PM. The title of the talk is "Listening to God: Ancient Christian Wisdom for Reading the Bible in a Post-Modern Age." Following this talk, we will meet on succeeding Wednesday evenings through the Fall at 7:30PM for a Bible study and discussion on the Gospel of Luke. A poster advertising this event is attached. Please pass it on to people who may be interested in attending. We depend on you to be our advertising department!
Here is the reading and discussion schedule for the next several weeks:
September 11- Luke 1 The Conception of John & Jesus: "My soul magnifies the Lord"
September 18- Luke 2-3 The Birth of Jesus, His Childhood and His Baptism
September 25- Luke 4-5 The Temptation in the Wilderness & Early Ministry of Jesus
Sunday School Begins September 7-8
Our Sunday School Year begins with a "Back to Sunday School Vespers and Ice Cream Social" from 5:00PM-7:00PM on Saturday, September 7. All children who can read and are interested will have an opportunity to participate by doing one or more of the readings. We encourage the whole parish to attend to encourage our students and to celebrate the beginning of the Sunday School year with them. When vespers finishes around 6:00PM we will stay and have some ice cream. Classes begin the following day, Sunday, September 8! We are trying a new start time for Sunday School this year. Class will begin at 9:20AM, coinciding with part of matins, and finish up in time for the beginning of Liturgy at 10:00AM.
Matins and Liturgy for Feast of the Elevation of the Precious Cross, September 14
We will celebrate the Feast of the Elevation of the Precious Cross with matins and liturgy at 8:45 and 10:00AM on Saturday, September 14.
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy. Printed material is being handed out and mailed to members in anticipation of this discussion.
Some Ways to Serve the Church
Anyone is welcome to read the Epistle during liturgy. It will always be read in English and we welcome it to be read in other languages as well. If you would like to read the Epistle reading, see our Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd). Also, we could always use more volunteers to serve as greeters on Sunday mornings. This job entails staying in the narthex and welcoming people as they come in, and helping visitors feel comfortable at our church. Brian Horak heads up the greeters. See him for more information.
Parish Survey
The Parish Council distributed a survey in the Spring which sought input on a variety of parish-related ideas. Thank you to all who took the time to share your thoughts. If you haven't filled out the survey and you would like to, go to: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSebu-8lSVkwcT9TnrwWBSRbSeONBfP6UdL-zltXSPJer5JQWA/viewform
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “No one has ascended into heaven but He who descended from heaven, the Son of man. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For, God sent His Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” (John 3:13-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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
"Open, O doors and bolts of my heart, that Christ the King of Glory may enter!
Enter, O my Light, and enlighten my darkness;
Enter, O my Life, and resurrect my deadness;
Enter, O my Physician, and heal my wounds;
Enter, O Divine Fire, and burn up the thorns of my sins;
Ignite my inward parts and my heart with the flame of Thy love;
Enter, O my King, and destroy in me the kingdom of sin;
Sit on the throne of my heart and reign in me alone, O Thou, my King and Lord."
Prayer of St. Dimitri of Rostov
Sunday August 25, 2019, Tenth Sunday after Pentecost
The Next Week's Services and Events
August 27, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 28, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Beheading of the Forerunner, 6:00PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
August 29, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 30, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
August 31, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 1, Sunday, (Ecclesiastical New Year)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Memory Eternal
We extend our condolences to Lizzie Kimball and her children Tori and Nikos upon the repose of Lizzie's mother Virginia. We also extend our condolences to Olena Bezugla upon the repose of her father Alexei. At the end of liturgy today, we prayed the Trisagion Memorial prayers on their behalf. May their memories be eternal!
September/October Calendars
Calendars showing services and other events for the months of September and October are now printed and available.
Vesperal Liturgy for the Beheading of the Forerunner
We will mark the solemn Beheading of the Forerunner and Baptist John with Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on Wednesday, August 28. Following liturgy, we will have our final discussion and study of the Epistle to the Philippians, focusing on chapter 4.
Thank You
Joshua Morey wishes to extend his thanks to all from the parish who participated in his house warming party a few weeks ago. He is grateful for all the gifts he received.
Fall Lecture: Listening to God
Join us (and invite friends!) for a talk given by Lori Branch at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00PM. The title of the talk is "Listening to God: Ancient Christian Wisdom for Reading the Bible in a Post-Modern Age." Following this talk, we will meet on succeeding Wednesday evenings through the Fall at 7:30PM for a Bible study and discussion on the Gospel of Luke. A poster advertising this event is attached. Please pass it on to people who may be interested in attending. We depend on you to be our advertising department!
Here is the reading and discussion schedule for the next several weeks:
September 11- Luke 1 The Conception of John & Jesus: "My soul magnifies the Lord"
September 18- Luke 2-3 The Birth of Jesus, His Childhood and His Baptism
September 25- Luke 4-5 The Temptation in the Wilderness & Early Ministry of Jesus
Sunday School Begins September 7-8
Our Sunday School Year begins with a "Back to Sunday School Vespers and Ice Cream Social" from 5:00PM-7:00PM on Saturday, September 7. All children who can read and are interested will have an opportunity to participate by doing one or more of the readings. We encourage the whole parish to attend to encourage our students and to celebrate the beginning of the Sunday School year with them. When vespers finishes around 6:00PM we will stay and have some ice cream. Classes begin the following day, Sunday, September 8! We are trying a new start time for Sunday School this year. Class will begin at 9:20AM, coinciding with part of matins, and finish up in time for the beginning of Liturgy at 10:00AM.
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy.
Some Ways to Serve the Church
Anyone is welcome to read the Epistle during liturgy. It will always be read in English and we welcome it to be read in other languages as well. If you would like to read the Epistle reading, see our Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd). Also, we could always use more volunteers to serve as greeters on Sunday mornings. This job entails staying in the narthex and welcoming people as they come in, and helping visitors feel comfortable at our church. Brian Horak heads up the greeters. See him for more information.
Parish Survey
The Parish Council distributed a survey in the Spring which sought input on a variety of parish-related ideas. Thank you to all who took the time to share your thoughts. If you haven't filled out the survey and you would like to, go to: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSebu-8lSVkwcT9TnrwWBSRbSeONBfP6UdL-zltXSPJer5JQWA/viewform
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?-
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up; and He went to the synagogue, as His custom was, on the Sabbath day. And He stood up to read; and there was given to Him the book of the prophet Isaiah. Jesus opened the book and found the place where it was written, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor and to heal the brokenhearted. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” And Jesus closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant, and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” And all spoke well of Him, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth. (Luke 4:16-22)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
As for us, our citizenship is in heaven, from which we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will change the body of our humiliation to be conformed to the body of His glory, according to the energy by which He is able to subject all things to Himself.
Philippians 3:20-21
August 27, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 28, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Beheading of the Forerunner, 6:00PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
August 29, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 30, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
August 31, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 1, Sunday, (Ecclesiastical New Year)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Memory Eternal
We extend our condolences to Lizzie Kimball and her children Tori and Nikos upon the repose of Lizzie's mother Virginia. We also extend our condolences to Olena Bezugla upon the repose of her father Alexei. At the end of liturgy today, we prayed the Trisagion Memorial prayers on their behalf. May their memories be eternal!
September/October Calendars
Calendars showing services and other events for the months of September and October are now printed and available.
Vesperal Liturgy for the Beheading of the Forerunner
We will mark the solemn Beheading of the Forerunner and Baptist John with Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on Wednesday, August 28. Following liturgy, we will have our final discussion and study of the Epistle to the Philippians, focusing on chapter 4.
Thank You
Joshua Morey wishes to extend his thanks to all from the parish who participated in his house warming party a few weeks ago. He is grateful for all the gifts he received.
Fall Lecture: Listening to God
Join us (and invite friends!) for a talk given by Lori Branch at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00PM. The title of the talk is "Listening to God: Ancient Christian Wisdom for Reading the Bible in a Post-Modern Age." Following this talk, we will meet on succeeding Wednesday evenings through the Fall at 7:30PM for a Bible study and discussion on the Gospel of Luke. A poster advertising this event is attached. Please pass it on to people who may be interested in attending. We depend on you to be our advertising department!
Here is the reading and discussion schedule for the next several weeks:
September 11- Luke 1 The Conception of John & Jesus: "My soul magnifies the Lord"
September 18- Luke 2-3 The Birth of Jesus, His Childhood and His Baptism
September 25- Luke 4-5 The Temptation in the Wilderness & Early Ministry of Jesus
Sunday School Begins September 7-8
Our Sunday School Year begins with a "Back to Sunday School Vespers and Ice Cream Social" from 5:00PM-7:00PM on Saturday, September 7. All children who can read and are interested will have an opportunity to participate by doing one or more of the readings. We encourage the whole parish to attend to encourage our students and to celebrate the beginning of the Sunday School year with them. When vespers finishes around 6:00PM we will stay and have some ice cream. Classes begin the following day, Sunday, September 8! We are trying a new start time for Sunday School this year. Class will begin at 9:20AM, coinciding with part of matins, and finish up in time for the beginning of Liturgy at 10:00AM.
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy.
Some Ways to Serve the Church
Anyone is welcome to read the Epistle during liturgy. It will always be read in English and we welcome it to be read in other languages as well. If you would like to read the Epistle reading, see our Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd). Also, we could always use more volunteers to serve as greeters on Sunday mornings. This job entails staying in the narthex and welcoming people as they come in, and helping visitors feel comfortable at our church. Brian Horak heads up the greeters. See him for more information.
Parish Survey
The Parish Council distributed a survey in the Spring which sought input on a variety of parish-related ideas. Thank you to all who took the time to share your thoughts. If you haven't filled out the survey and you would like to, go to: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSebu-8lSVkwcT9TnrwWBSRbSeONBfP6UdL-zltXSPJer5JQWA/viewform
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?-
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up; and He went to the synagogue, as His custom was, on the Sabbath day. And He stood up to read; and there was given to Him the book of the prophet Isaiah. Jesus opened the book and found the place where it was written, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor and to heal the brokenhearted. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” And Jesus closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant, and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” And all spoke well of Him, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth. (Luke 4:16-22)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
As for us, our citizenship is in heaven, from which we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will change the body of our humiliation to be conformed to the body of His glory, according to the energy by which He is able to subject all things to Himself.
Philippians 3:20-21
Sunday August 18, 2019, Ninth Sunday after Pentecost
The Next Week's Services and Events
August 20, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 21, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
August 22, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 23, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
August 24, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 25, Sunday, (10th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
A Message from our Treasurer
To read the monthly message from Karen, see the attached note.
Bishop Anthony Sends His Greetings
Since he visited us at the end of June, Bishop Anthony has called twice, asking about how we are doing and reflecting on his visit with us. He sends his greetings and wants us to know he is praying for us. He keeps encouraging us to work hard to stabilize our finances and to grow together in Christ.
Blessing of Students and Teachers
Following Liturgy on Sunday, August 25, all students and teachers will be prayed for and blessed as they start a new school year.
Vesperal Liturgy for the Beheading of the Forerunner
We will mark the solemn Beheading of the Forerunner and Baptist John with Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on Wednesday, August 28. Following liturgy, we will have our final discussion and study of the Epistle to the Philippians, focusing on chapter 4.
Fall Lecture: Listening to God
Join us (and invite friends!) for a talk given by Lori Branch at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00PM. The title of the talk is "Listening to God: Ancient Christian Wisdom for Reading the Bible in a Post-Modern Age." Following this talk, we will meet on succeeding Wednesday evenings through the Fall at 7:30PM for a Bible study and discussion on the Gospel of Luke.
Sunday School Begins September 7-8
Our Sunday School Year begins with a "Back to Sunday School Vespers and Ice Cream Social" from 5:00PM-7:00PM on Saturday, September 7. All children who can read and are interested will have an opportunity to participate by doing one or more of the readings. We encourage the whole parish to attend to encourage our students and to celebrate the beginning of the Sunday School year with them. When vespers finishes around 6:00PM we will stay and have some ice cream. Classes begin the following day, Sunday, September 8!
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy.
Some Ways to Serve the Church
Anyone is welcome to read the Epistle during liturgy. It will always be read in English and we welcome it to be read in other languages as well. If you would like to read the Epistle reading, see our Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd). Also, we could always use more volunteers to serve as greeters on Sunday mornings. This job entails staying in the narthex and welcoming people as they come in, and helping visitors feel comfortable at our church. Brian Horak heads up the greeters. See him for more information.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In August, we are reading and discussing the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks.
August 21 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 3
August 28 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 4
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?-
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
25th Anniversary Celebrations for the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Cicero
During November 14-17, St. George Church in Cicero, Illinois will be hosting various events to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Appearance of the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Our Lady of Cicero. Both Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony will be present. Go to: www.stgeorgechi.org/25th for more information.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, a man came up to Jesus and kneeling before him said, "Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and he suffers terribly; for often he falls into the fire, and often into the water. And I brought him to your disciples, and they could not heal him." And Jesus answered, "O faithless and perverse generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him here to me." And Jesus rebuked him, and the demon came out of him, and the boy was cured instantly. Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not cast it out?" He said to them, "Because of your little faith. For truly I say to you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move hence to yonder place,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you. But this kind never comes out except by prayer and fasting." As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, "The Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day." (Matthew 17:14-23)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
God loves us more than a father, mother, friend or anyone else could love, and even more than we are able to love ourselves.
St. John Chrysostom
August 20, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 21, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
August 22, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 23, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
August 24, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 25, Sunday, (10th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
A Message from our Treasurer
To read the monthly message from Karen, see the attached note.
Bishop Anthony Sends His Greetings
Since he visited us at the end of June, Bishop Anthony has called twice, asking about how we are doing and reflecting on his visit with us. He sends his greetings and wants us to know he is praying for us. He keeps encouraging us to work hard to stabilize our finances and to grow together in Christ.
Blessing of Students and Teachers
Following Liturgy on Sunday, August 25, all students and teachers will be prayed for and blessed as they start a new school year.
Vesperal Liturgy for the Beheading of the Forerunner
We will mark the solemn Beheading of the Forerunner and Baptist John with Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on Wednesday, August 28. Following liturgy, we will have our final discussion and study of the Epistle to the Philippians, focusing on chapter 4.
Fall Lecture: Listening to God
Join us (and invite friends!) for a talk given by Lori Branch at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00PM. The title of the talk is "Listening to God: Ancient Christian Wisdom for Reading the Bible in a Post-Modern Age." Following this talk, we will meet on succeeding Wednesday evenings through the Fall at 7:30PM for a Bible study and discussion on the Gospel of Luke.
Sunday School Begins September 7-8
Our Sunday School Year begins with a "Back to Sunday School Vespers and Ice Cream Social" from 5:00PM-7:00PM on Saturday, September 7. All children who can read and are interested will have an opportunity to participate by doing one or more of the readings. We encourage the whole parish to attend to encourage our students and to celebrate the beginning of the Sunday School year with them. When vespers finishes around 6:00PM we will stay and have some ice cream. Classes begin the following day, Sunday, September 8!
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy.
Some Ways to Serve the Church
Anyone is welcome to read the Epistle during liturgy. It will always be read in English and we welcome it to be read in other languages as well. If you would like to read the Epistle reading, see our Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd). Also, we could always use more volunteers to serve as greeters on Sunday mornings. This job entails staying in the narthex and welcoming people as they come in, and helping visitors feel comfortable at our church. Brian Horak heads up the greeters. See him for more information.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In August, we are reading and discussing the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks.
August 21 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 3
August 28 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 4
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?-
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
25th Anniversary Celebrations for the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Cicero
During November 14-17, St. George Church in Cicero, Illinois will be hosting various events to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Appearance of the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Our Lady of Cicero. Both Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony will be present. Go to: www.stgeorgechi.org/25th for more information.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, a man came up to Jesus and kneeling before him said, "Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and he suffers terribly; for often he falls into the fire, and often into the water. And I brought him to your disciples, and they could not heal him." And Jesus answered, "O faithless and perverse generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him here to me." And Jesus rebuked him, and the demon came out of him, and the boy was cured instantly. Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not cast it out?" He said to them, "Because of your little faith. For truly I say to you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move hence to yonder place,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you. But this kind never comes out except by prayer and fasting." As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, "The Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day." (Matthew 17:14-23)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
God loves us more than a father, mother, friend or anyone else could love, and even more than we are able to love ourselves.
St. John Chrysostom
Sunday August 11, 2019, Eighth Sunday after Pentecost
The Next Week's Services and Events
August 12, Monday
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 13, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 14, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for Dormition, 6:00PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
August 15, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 17, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 18, Sunday, (9th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Dormition Fast
August 1-14 marks the Dormition Fast, a time of preparation through fasting and extra services leading up to the great feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. We abstain from meat, dairy, eggs, olive oil and wine Monday through Friday and from meat, dairy and eggs on the weekends. During this time, we will pray the Paraklesis service, a service of consolation for the living on the evenings of August 2, 7, 9, and 12. We conclude the fast with liturgy for the Dormition on the evening of August 14.
No Office Hours August 16
Fr. Ignatius will not be in the office for any scheduled office hours on Friday, August 16. There will be no 3rd Hour Prayers either.
Important Meeting for Parents of Sunday School Students
If you have a child of Sunday School age, please plan to stay for a meeting during coffee hour on Sunday, August 18. When Bishop Anthony was with us in June, he encouraged us to reconsider our starting time for Sunday School and so we want to discuss this possible change and seek your input.
Blessing of Students and Teachers
Following Liturgy on Sunday, August 25, all students and teachers will be prayed for and blessed as they start a new school year.
Fall Lecture: Listening to God
Join us (and invite friends!) for a talk given by Lori Branch at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00PM. The title of the talk is "Listening to God:Ancient Christian Wisdom for Reading the Bible in a Post-Modern Age." Following this talk, we will meet on succeeding Wednesday evenings through the Fall at 7:30PM for a Bible study and discussion on the Gospel of Luke.
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy..
A Resource for Families
The family is the most important unit of society and the place where the faith is most successfully passed down to the next generation. Each Christian family is a little church, a microcosm of the Kingdom of God. Although children can learn much about the faith by attending liturgy and Sunday School, if Christianity is not being modeled and taught in the home, then it is much less likely that a child, when he or she grows up, will continue on in the Church. The Antiochian Archdiocese Department of Missions and Evangelism has developed a beautiful resource for families to use together to build relationships and encourage each other in the Orthodox Christian faith. To see this resource called Family Night: A Home Resource for Families, go to: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/eebec8_8e36adcf6de84588885a7028d3aecce8.pdf
Attention Parents, Grandparents and Godparents
Are you looking for good sources of Orthodox Christian books to engage your children, grandchildren or godchildren? Potamitis Publishing (orthodoxchildrensbooks.com) and Exaltation Press (exaltationpress.com) are producing excellent children's books. Potamitis Publishing has hundreds of titles in about 18 different languages, focusing mainly on the lives of the saints. Exaltation Press, a brand new publishing company, is translated excellently written and produced Russian Orthodox books into English.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In August, we are reading and discussing the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
August 14 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 2
August 21 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 3
August 28 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 4
25th Anniversary Celebrations for the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Cicero
During November 14-17, St. George Church in Cicero, Illinois will be hosting various events to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Appearance of the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Our Lady of Cicero. Both Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony will be present. Go to: www.stgeorgechi.org/25th for more information.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus made the Disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. And after He had dismissed the crowds, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone, but the Disciples’ boat by this time was many furlongs distant from the land, beaten by the waves; for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. But when the Disciples saw Jesus walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately He spoke to them, saying, “Take heart, it is I; have no fear.” And Peter answered Him, “Lord, if it is Thee, bid me come to Thee on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus; but when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out His hand and caught him, saying to him, “O man of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “Truly, Thou art the Son of God.” And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. (Matthew 14:22-34)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Philippians 1:21
August 12, Monday
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 13, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 14, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for Dormition, 6:00PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
August 15, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 17, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 18, Sunday, (9th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Dormition Fast
August 1-14 marks the Dormition Fast, a time of preparation through fasting and extra services leading up to the great feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. We abstain from meat, dairy, eggs, olive oil and wine Monday through Friday and from meat, dairy and eggs on the weekends. During this time, we will pray the Paraklesis service, a service of consolation for the living on the evenings of August 2, 7, 9, and 12. We conclude the fast with liturgy for the Dormition on the evening of August 14.
No Office Hours August 16
Fr. Ignatius will not be in the office for any scheduled office hours on Friday, August 16. There will be no 3rd Hour Prayers either.
Important Meeting for Parents of Sunday School Students
If you have a child of Sunday School age, please plan to stay for a meeting during coffee hour on Sunday, August 18. When Bishop Anthony was with us in June, he encouraged us to reconsider our starting time for Sunday School and so we want to discuss this possible change and seek your input.
Blessing of Students and Teachers
Following Liturgy on Sunday, August 25, all students and teachers will be prayed for and blessed as they start a new school year.
Fall Lecture: Listening to God
Join us (and invite friends!) for a talk given by Lori Branch at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00PM. The title of the talk is "Listening to God:Ancient Christian Wisdom for Reading the Bible in a Post-Modern Age." Following this talk, we will meet on succeeding Wednesday evenings through the Fall at 7:30PM for a Bible study and discussion on the Gospel of Luke.
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy..
A Resource for Families
The family is the most important unit of society and the place where the faith is most successfully passed down to the next generation. Each Christian family is a little church, a microcosm of the Kingdom of God. Although children can learn much about the faith by attending liturgy and Sunday School, if Christianity is not being modeled and taught in the home, then it is much less likely that a child, when he or she grows up, will continue on in the Church. The Antiochian Archdiocese Department of Missions and Evangelism has developed a beautiful resource for families to use together to build relationships and encourage each other in the Orthodox Christian faith. To see this resource called Family Night: A Home Resource for Families, go to: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/eebec8_8e36adcf6de84588885a7028d3aecce8.pdf
Attention Parents, Grandparents and Godparents
Are you looking for good sources of Orthodox Christian books to engage your children, grandchildren or godchildren? Potamitis Publishing (orthodoxchildrensbooks.com) and Exaltation Press (exaltationpress.com) are producing excellent children's books. Potamitis Publishing has hundreds of titles in about 18 different languages, focusing mainly on the lives of the saints. Exaltation Press, a brand new publishing company, is translated excellently written and produced Russian Orthodox books into English.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In August, we are reading and discussing the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
August 14 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 2
August 21 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 3
August 28 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 4
25th Anniversary Celebrations for the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Cicero
During November 14-17, St. George Church in Cicero, Illinois will be hosting various events to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Appearance of the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Our Lady of Cicero. Both Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony will be present. Go to: www.stgeorgechi.org/25th for more information.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus made the Disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. And after He had dismissed the crowds, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone, but the Disciples’ boat by this time was many furlongs distant from the land, beaten by the waves; for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. But when the Disciples saw Jesus walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately He spoke to them, saying, “Take heart, it is I; have no fear.” And Peter answered Him, “Lord, if it is Thee, bid me come to Thee on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus; but when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out His hand and caught him, saying to him, “O man of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “Truly, Thou art the Son of God.” And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. (Matthew 14:22-34)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Philippians 1:21
Sunday August 4, 2019, Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
The Next Week's Services and Events
August 5, Monday
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Transfiguration of the Lord, 6:00PM
August 6, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 7, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Paraklesis, 6:30PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
August 8, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 9, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 10, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 11, Sunday, (8th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Dormition Fast
August 1-14 marks the Dormition Fast, a time of preparation through fasting and extra services leading up to the great feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. We abstain from meat, dairy, eggs, olive oil and wine Monday through Friday and from meat, dairy and eggs on the weekends. During this time, we will pray the Paraklesis service, a service of consolation for the living on the evenings of August 2, 7, 9, and 12. We mark the great feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord with liturgy on the evening of August 5, and we conclude the fast with liturgy for the Dormition on the evening of August 14.
Blessing of Grapes and Fruit
It is traditional to bless grapes and other fruit at the feast of the Transfiguration. Come and pray and bring your fruit to be blessed!
Can't Make it to Church On Wednesday and/or Friday Evening?
Then pray the same paraklesis service that we will be praying at church, from your home. While it is good for us to pray together as a church family, as the Body of Christ, we can't always all come together. Perhaps the next best thing is to be able to pray the same prayers at the same time, from various locations. On Wednesday, August 7 (6:30PM) and Friday August 9 (7:00PM), we will be praying the Paraklesis service. For those who want to pray at home, the text can be found here: https://antiochianprodsa.blob.core.windows.net/liturgicalinstructions/Paraklesis%20Little%20SERVICE.pdf Audio of this service can be heard at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbfD6pYWu5g&t=938s
Important Meeting for Parents of Sunday School Students
If you have a child of Sunday School age, please plan to stay for a meeting during coffee hour on Sunday, August 18. When Bishop Anthony was with us in June, he encouraged us to reconsider our starting time for Sunday School and so we want to discuss this possible change and seek your input.
Fall Lecture: Listening to God
Join us (and invite friends!) for a talk given by Lori Branch at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00PM. The title of the talk is "Listening to God:Ancient Christian Wisdom for Reading the Bible in a Post-Modern Age." Following this talk, we will meet on succeeding Wednesday evenings through the Fall at 7:30 for a Bible study and discussion on the Gospel of Luke.
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy..
A Resource for Families
The family is the most important unit of society and the place where the faith is most successfully passed down to the next generation. Each Christian family is a little church, a microcosm of the Kingdom of God. Although children can learn much about the faith by attending liturgy and Sunday School, if Christianity is not being modeled and taught in the home, then it is much less likely that a child, when he or she grows up, will continue on in the Church. The Antiochian Archdiocese Department of Missions and Evangelism has developed a beautiful resource for families to use together to build relationships and encourage each other in the Orthodox Christian faith. To see this resource called Family Night: A Home Resource for Families, go to: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/eebec8_8e36adcf6de84588885a7028d3aecce8.pdf
Attention Parents, Grandparents and Godparents
Are you looking for good sources of Orthodox Christian books to engage your children, grandchildren or godchildren? Potamitis Publishing (orthodoxchildrensbooks.com) and Exaltation Press (exaltationpress.com) are producing excellent children's books. Potamitis Publishing has hundreds of titles in about 18 different languages, focusing mainly on the lives of the saints. Exaltation Press, a brand new publishing company, is translated excellently written and produced Russian Orthodox books into English.
Are You on Twitter or Instagram?
So is St. Raphael Church! You can follow us on either platform at @straphael_ic
Church Cookbook for Sale
Did you know that St. Raphael Church produced a cookbook? "East, West, and Midwest: 101 Recipes from an International Potluck" is available at our church bookstore and also on amazon.com. https://www.amazon.com/East-West-Midwest-Time-Tested-International/dp/0615795579/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=east+west+midwest+cookbook&qid=1563138732&s=gateway&sr=8-5
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In August, we are reading and discussing the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
August 7 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 1
August 14 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 2
August 21 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 3
August 28 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 4
Archdiocesan Annual Report Available
For those who are interested in learning about the organizational structure of the Antiochian Archdiocese and the budgets of the various departments and an overall financial picture of the archdiocese, there is a printed copy of these reports available in the narthex for your perusal.
25th Anniversary Celebrations for the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Cicero
During November 14-17, St. George Church in Cicero, Illinois will be hosting various events to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Appearance of the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Our Lady of Cicero. Both Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony will be present. Go to: www.stgeorgechi.org/25th for more information.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus went ashore he saw a great throng; and he had compassion on them, and healed their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to Him and said, “This is a lonely place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.” Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” They said to Him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” And He said, “Bring them here to Me.” Then He ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass; and taking the five loaves and the two fish He looked up to Heaven, and blessed, and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. Then Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. (Matthew 14:14-22)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
"When the Spirit of God descends upon a man and overshadows him with the fullness of His outpouring, then his soul overflows with a joy not to be described, for the Holy Spirit turns to joy whatever He touches."
-- St. Seraphim of Sarov
August 5, Monday
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Transfiguration of the Lord, 6:00PM
August 6, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 7, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Paraklesis, 6:30PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
August 8, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 9, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 10, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 11, Sunday, (8th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Dormition Fast
August 1-14 marks the Dormition Fast, a time of preparation through fasting and extra services leading up to the great feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. We abstain from meat, dairy, eggs, olive oil and wine Monday through Friday and from meat, dairy and eggs on the weekends. During this time, we will pray the Paraklesis service, a service of consolation for the living on the evenings of August 2, 7, 9, and 12. We mark the great feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord with liturgy on the evening of August 5, and we conclude the fast with liturgy for the Dormition on the evening of August 14.
Blessing of Grapes and Fruit
It is traditional to bless grapes and other fruit at the feast of the Transfiguration. Come and pray and bring your fruit to be blessed!
Can't Make it to Church On Wednesday and/or Friday Evening?
Then pray the same paraklesis service that we will be praying at church, from your home. While it is good for us to pray together as a church family, as the Body of Christ, we can't always all come together. Perhaps the next best thing is to be able to pray the same prayers at the same time, from various locations. On Wednesday, August 7 (6:30PM) and Friday August 9 (7:00PM), we will be praying the Paraklesis service. For those who want to pray at home, the text can be found here: https://antiochianprodsa.blob.core.windows.net/liturgicalinstructions/Paraklesis%20Little%20SERVICE.pdf Audio of this service can be heard at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbfD6pYWu5g&t=938s
Important Meeting for Parents of Sunday School Students
If you have a child of Sunday School age, please plan to stay for a meeting during coffee hour on Sunday, August 18. When Bishop Anthony was with us in June, he encouraged us to reconsider our starting time for Sunday School and so we want to discuss this possible change and seek your input.
Fall Lecture: Listening to God
Join us (and invite friends!) for a talk given by Lori Branch at the Iowa City Public Library on Wednesday, September 4 at 7:00PM. The title of the talk is "Listening to God:Ancient Christian Wisdom for Reading the Bible in a Post-Modern Age." Following this talk, we will meet on succeeding Wednesday evenings through the Fall at 7:30 for a Bible study and discussion on the Gospel of Luke.
Parish-wide Discussion on Acting on Survey Responses, September 15
The Parish Council wants to continue the dialogue and momentum that began with our roundtable discussion with Bishop Anthony at the end of June, especially as it relates to moving forward to address some of the issues raised in the parish survey that many of you responded to. Please plan to stay and participate. The meeting will be during coffee hour, following liturgy..
A Resource for Families
The family is the most important unit of society and the place where the faith is most successfully passed down to the next generation. Each Christian family is a little church, a microcosm of the Kingdom of God. Although children can learn much about the faith by attending liturgy and Sunday School, if Christianity is not being modeled and taught in the home, then it is much less likely that a child, when he or she grows up, will continue on in the Church. The Antiochian Archdiocese Department of Missions and Evangelism has developed a beautiful resource for families to use together to build relationships and encourage each other in the Orthodox Christian faith. To see this resource called Family Night: A Home Resource for Families, go to: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/eebec8_8e36adcf6de84588885a7028d3aecce8.pdf
Attention Parents, Grandparents and Godparents
Are you looking for good sources of Orthodox Christian books to engage your children, grandchildren or godchildren? Potamitis Publishing (orthodoxchildrensbooks.com) and Exaltation Press (exaltationpress.com) are producing excellent children's books. Potamitis Publishing has hundreds of titles in about 18 different languages, focusing mainly on the lives of the saints. Exaltation Press, a brand new publishing company, is translated excellently written and produced Russian Orthodox books into English.
Are You on Twitter or Instagram?
So is St. Raphael Church! You can follow us on either platform at @straphael_ic
Church Cookbook for Sale
Did you know that St. Raphael Church produced a cookbook? "East, West, and Midwest: 101 Recipes from an International Potluck" is available at our church bookstore and also on amazon.com. https://www.amazon.com/East-West-Midwest-Time-Tested-International/dp/0615795579/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=east+west+midwest+cookbook&qid=1563138732&s=gateway&sr=8-5
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In August, we are reading and discussing the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
August 7 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 1
August 14 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 2
August 21 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 3
August 28 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 4
Archdiocesan Annual Report Available
For those who are interested in learning about the organizational structure of the Antiochian Archdiocese and the budgets of the various departments and an overall financial picture of the archdiocese, there is a printed copy of these reports available in the narthex for your perusal.
25th Anniversary Celebrations for the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Cicero
During November 14-17, St. George Church in Cicero, Illinois will be hosting various events to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Appearance of the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Our Lady of Cicero. Both Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony will be present. Go to: www.stgeorgechi.org/25th for more information.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus went ashore he saw a great throng; and he had compassion on them, and healed their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to Him and said, “This is a lonely place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.” Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” They said to Him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” And He said, “Bring them here to Me.” Then He ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass; and taking the five loaves and the two fish He looked up to Heaven, and blessed, and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. Then Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. (Matthew 14:14-22)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
"When the Spirit of God descends upon a man and overshadows him with the fullness of His outpouring, then his soul overflows with a joy not to be described, for the Holy Spirit turns to joy whatever He touches."
-- St. Seraphim of Sarov
Sunday July 28, 2019, Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
July 30, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 31, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
August 1, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 2, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 3, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 4, Sunday, (7th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Elizabeth Michael was received as a catechumen at liturgy this morning. May God grant her many years!
Free Lunch Program Volunteering
If you would like to join Fr. Ignatius in helping to serve a meal at the Free Lunch Program this Thursday, from 11:30AM-1:00PM, please let him know.
Looking Ahead to August
August 1-14 marks the Dormition Fast, a time of preparation through fasting and extra services leading up to the great feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. We abstain from meat dairy eggs, olive oil and wine Monday through Friday and from meat, dairy and eggs on the weekends. During this time, we will pray the Paraklesis service, a service of consolation for the living on the evenings of August 2, 7, 9, and 12. We mark the great feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord with liturgy on the evening of August 5, and we conclude the fast with liturgy for the Dormition on the evening of August 14.
Can't Make it to Church On Wednesday Evening?
Then pray the same akathist service that we will be praying at church, from your home. While it is good for us to pray together as a church family, as the Body of Christ, we can't always all come together. Perhaps the next best thing is to be able to pray the same prayers at the same time, from various locations. On Wednesday, July 31, at 6:50PM, we will be praying the Akathist to the Precious Cross, as August 1 is the Forefeast of the Precious Cross. For those who want to pray at home, the text can be found here: http://saintmichaelsmitessatan.net/AkathistHymnToTheCross.html
A Resource for Families
The family is the most important unit of society and the place where the faith is most successfully passed down to the next generation. Each Christian family is a little church, a microcosm of the Kingdom of God. Although children can learn much about the faith by attending liturgy and Sunday School, if Christianity is not being modeled and taught in the home, then it is much less likely that a child, when he or she grows up, will continue on in the Church. The Antiochian Archdiocese Department of Missions and Evangelism has developed a beautiful resource for families to use together to build relationships and encourage each other in the Orthodox Christian faith. To see this resource called Family Night: A Home Resource for Families, go to: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/eebec8_8e36adcf6de84588885a7028d3aecce8.pdf
Attention Parents, Grandparents and Godparents
Are you looking for good sources of Orthodox Christian books to engage your children, grandchildren or godchildren? Potamitis Publishing (orthodoxchildrensbooks.com) and Exaltation Press (exaltationpress.com) are producing excellent children's books. Potamitis Publishing has hundreds of titles in about 18 different languages, focusing mainly on the lives of the saints. Exaltation Press, a brand new publishing company, is translated excellently written and produced Russian Orthodox books into English.
Treasurer's Minute
Take a few minutes to read the latest message from our treasurer Karen. See attached document.
Are You on Twitter or Instagram?
So is St. Raphael Church! You can follow us on either platform at @straphael_ic
Church Cookbook for Sale
Did you know that St. Raphael Church produced a cookbook? "East, West, and Midwest: 101 Recipes from an International Potluck" is available at our church bookstore and also on amazon.com. https://www.amazon.com/East-West-Midwest-Time-Tested-International/dp/0615795579/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=east+west+midwest+cookbook&qid=1563138732&s=gateway&sr=8-5
Accepting Olive Oil Donations
From time to time, we run low on the olive oil that we burn in our oil lamps at church. Now is one of those times. If you would like to donate a bottle or two of regular grade (not extra-virgin) olive oil, we would be most grateful.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In July we have been enjoying short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
July 31 Papadiamandis "At St. Anastasa's"
August 7 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 1
August 14 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 2
August 21 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 3
August 28 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 4
Archdiocesan Annual Report Available
For those who are interested in learning about the organizational structure of the Antiochian Archdiocese and the budgets of the various departments and an overall financial picture of the archdiocese, there is a printed copy of these reports available in the narthex for your perusal.
25th Anniversary Celebrations for the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Cicero
During November 14-17, St. George Church in Cicero, Illinois will be hosting various events to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Appearance of the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Our Lady of Cicero. Both Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony will be present. Go to: www.stgeorgechi.org/25th for more information.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud: “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” When He entered the house, the blind men came to Him; and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” Then He touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.” And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly charged them, “See that no one knows it.” But they went away and spread His fame through all that district. As they were going away, behold, a dumb demoniac was brought to Him. And when the demon had been cast out, the dumb man spoke; and the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.” And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every infirmity. (Matthew 9:27-35)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
A Christian has an obligation to serve his creator not only with the soul but also with the body. This refutes the false position of certain Christians, who live physically as pagans, while praising themselves that they believe in God and love God with their souls.
-- St. Nicholai of Zica
July 30, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 31, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
August 1, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 2, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 3, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 4, Sunday, (7th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Elizabeth Michael was received as a catechumen at liturgy this morning. May God grant her many years!
Free Lunch Program Volunteering
If you would like to join Fr. Ignatius in helping to serve a meal at the Free Lunch Program this Thursday, from 11:30AM-1:00PM, please let him know.
Looking Ahead to August
August 1-14 marks the Dormition Fast, a time of preparation through fasting and extra services leading up to the great feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. We abstain from meat dairy eggs, olive oil and wine Monday through Friday and from meat, dairy and eggs on the weekends. During this time, we will pray the Paraklesis service, a service of consolation for the living on the evenings of August 2, 7, 9, and 12. We mark the great feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord with liturgy on the evening of August 5, and we conclude the fast with liturgy for the Dormition on the evening of August 14.
Can't Make it to Church On Wednesday Evening?
Then pray the same akathist service that we will be praying at church, from your home. While it is good for us to pray together as a church family, as the Body of Christ, we can't always all come together. Perhaps the next best thing is to be able to pray the same prayers at the same time, from various locations. On Wednesday, July 31, at 6:50PM, we will be praying the Akathist to the Precious Cross, as August 1 is the Forefeast of the Precious Cross. For those who want to pray at home, the text can be found here: http://saintmichaelsmitessatan.net/AkathistHymnToTheCross.html
A Resource for Families
The family is the most important unit of society and the place where the faith is most successfully passed down to the next generation. Each Christian family is a little church, a microcosm of the Kingdom of God. Although children can learn much about the faith by attending liturgy and Sunday School, if Christianity is not being modeled and taught in the home, then it is much less likely that a child, when he or she grows up, will continue on in the Church. The Antiochian Archdiocese Department of Missions and Evangelism has developed a beautiful resource for families to use together to build relationships and encourage each other in the Orthodox Christian faith. To see this resource called Family Night: A Home Resource for Families, go to: https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/eebec8_8e36adcf6de84588885a7028d3aecce8.pdf
Attention Parents, Grandparents and Godparents
Are you looking for good sources of Orthodox Christian books to engage your children, grandchildren or godchildren? Potamitis Publishing (orthodoxchildrensbooks.com) and Exaltation Press (exaltationpress.com) are producing excellent children's books. Potamitis Publishing has hundreds of titles in about 18 different languages, focusing mainly on the lives of the saints. Exaltation Press, a brand new publishing company, is translated excellently written and produced Russian Orthodox books into English.
Treasurer's Minute
Take a few minutes to read the latest message from our treasurer Karen. See attached document.
Are You on Twitter or Instagram?
So is St. Raphael Church! You can follow us on either platform at @straphael_ic
Church Cookbook for Sale
Did you know that St. Raphael Church produced a cookbook? "East, West, and Midwest: 101 Recipes from an International Potluck" is available at our church bookstore and also on amazon.com. https://www.amazon.com/East-West-Midwest-Time-Tested-International/dp/0615795579/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=east+west+midwest+cookbook&qid=1563138732&s=gateway&sr=8-5
Accepting Olive Oil Donations
From time to time, we run low on the olive oil that we burn in our oil lamps at church. Now is one of those times. If you would like to donate a bottle or two of regular grade (not extra-virgin) olive oil, we would be most grateful.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In July we have been enjoying short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
July 31 Papadiamandis "At St. Anastasa's"
August 7 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 1
August 14 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 2
August 21 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 3
August 28 St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians, chapter 4
Archdiocesan Annual Report Available
For those who are interested in learning about the organizational structure of the Antiochian Archdiocese and the budgets of the various departments and an overall financial picture of the archdiocese, there is a printed copy of these reports available in the narthex for your perusal.
25th Anniversary Celebrations for the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Cicero
During November 14-17, St. George Church in Cicero, Illinois will be hosting various events to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Appearance of the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Our Lady of Cicero. Both Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony will be present. Go to: www.stgeorgechi.org/25th for more information.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud: “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” When He entered the house, the blind men came to Him; and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” Then He touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.” And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly charged them, “See that no one knows it.” But they went away and spread His fame through all that district. As they were going away, behold, a dumb demoniac was brought to Him. And when the demon had been cast out, the dumb man spoke; and the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.” And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every infirmity. (Matthew 9:27-35)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Madison Frei and Elizabeth Michael 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
A Christian has an obligation to serve his creator not only with the soul but also with the body. This refutes the false position of certain Christians, who live physically as pagans, while praising themselves that they believe in God and love God with their souls.
-- St. Nicholai of Zica
Sunday July 14, 2019, Sunday of the Holy Fathers
The Next Two Weeks' Services and Events
July 17, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
July 20, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 21, Sunday, (5th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 9:00AM
+ Typica, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
July 24, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
July 27, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 28, Sunday (6th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, Followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Parish Council Membership Change
Iulian Vamanu has resigned his appointed position on the parish council and his wife Alina Vamanu has agreed to fill that position, so Fr. Ignatius has appointed her. Your parish council consists of Newman Abuissa, chairman; Julia Buchkina, secretary; Karen Kuntz, treasurer; Brian Horak, Elena Boriuk and Alina Vamanu.
Fr. Ignatius is Traveling
Fr. Ignatius will be out of town from July 16-27, combining a vacation with attendance at the Archdiocese Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Please do not hesitate to communicate with him during this time if necessary. If you need a priest in person for an emergency, please contact Fr. Peter Andronache at 319-804-8502.
Services on Sunday, July 21
On Sunday, July 21, we will have matins at 9:00AM and Typica, without the Eucharist, at 10:00AM. There is no need to fast before services this morning. As Typica is much shorter than Liturgy, coffee hour will begin earlier than usual.
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?-
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Are You on Twitter?
So is St. Raphael Church! You can follow us at @straphael_ic
Church Cookbook for Sale
Did you know that St. Raphael Church produced a cookbook? "East, West, and Midwest: 101 Recipes from an International Potluck" is available at our church bookstore and also on amazon.com. https://www.amazon.com/East-West-Midwest-Time-Tested-International/dp/0615795579/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=east+west+midwest+cookbook&qid=1563138732&s=gateway&sr=8-5
Vacation Church School at St. George
St. George Church in Cedar Rapids invites all children in grades K-5 to attend their Vacation Church School July 31-August 2, 9:00AM-11:30AM. If you child is attending, please let Kareme Elossais (yazmarie78@hotmail.com or 319-329-6852) by July 21.
Housewarming Party for Joshua Morey
As a parish family, we enjoy helping each other through the transitions of life. One of our parishioners, Joshua Morey, has just graduated college, gotten his first job as a band & music teacher, and is moving out on his own: congratulations, Joshua! So we are helping him with establish himself with a housewarming party during coffee hour on Sunday, July 21. Below is a list of household items that would be useful for Joshua. Please help out with anything you can, and come to liturgy prepared to celebrate with Joshua afterwards during coffee hour on the 21st! Lori Branch is organizing this effort. Please contact her at lori-branch@uiowa,edu if you have or purchase something from this list so that we can avoid giving unneeded duplicates to Joshua.
Accepting Olive Oil Donations
From time to time, we run low on the olive oil that we burn in our oil lamps at church. Now is one of those times. If you would like to donate a bottle or two of regular grade (not extra-virgin) olive oil, we would be most grateful.
Looking Ahead to August
August 1-14 marks the Dormition Fast, a time of preparation through fasting and extra services leading up to the great feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. During this time, we will pray the Paraklesis service, a service of consolation for the living on the evenings of August 2, 7, 9, and 12. We mark the great feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord with liturgy on the evening of August 5, and we conclude the fast with liturgy for the Dormition on the evening of August 14.
Change Made on Saturday Evenings
From the beginning of St. Raphael Church, it has been the practice to have a reading after the dismissal of vespers on Saturday evening. At the direction of Bishop Anthony, the reading will now be replaced with a short 5-10 minute talk by Fr. Ignatius, which will take place just before the dismissal.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
July 17 Papadiamandis "The American"
July 23 Papadiamandis "Fey Folk"
July 30 Papadiamandis "At St. Anastasa's"
25th Anniversary Celebrations for the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Cicero
During November 14-17, St. George Church in Cicero, Illinois will be hosting various events to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Appearance of the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Our Lady of Cicero. Both Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony will be present. Go to: www.stgeorgechi.org/25th for more information.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus came to the country of the Gergesenes, two demoniacs met Him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. And behold, they cried out, “What have we to do to Thee, O Son of God? Art Thou come here to torment us before the time?” Now a herd of many swine was feeding at some distance from them. And the demons begged Him, “If Thou castest us out, send us away into the herd of swine.” And He said to them, “Go.” So they came out and went into the swine; and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea, and perished in the waters. The herdsmen fled, and going into the city they told everything, and what had happened to the demoniacs. And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus; and when they saw Him, they begged Him to leave their neighborhood. And getting into a boat He crossed over and came to His own city. (Matthew 8:28-9:1)
And
At that time, Jesus got into a boat, crossed over and came to His own city. And behold, they brought to Him a paralytic, lying on his bed; and when Jesus saw their faith He said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—He then said to the paralytic—“Rise, take up your bed and go home.” And he rose and went home. When the crowds saw it, they marveled, and they glorified God, Who had given such authority to men. (Matthew 9:1-8)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
For God created man for immortality and made him an image of His own eternity.
Wisdom of Solomon 2:23
July 17, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
July 20, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 21, Sunday, (5th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 9:00AM
+ Typica, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
July 24, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
July 27, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 28, Sunday (6th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, Followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Parish Council Membership Change
Iulian Vamanu has resigned his appointed position on the parish council and his wife Alina Vamanu has agreed to fill that position, so Fr. Ignatius has appointed her. Your parish council consists of Newman Abuissa, chairman; Julia Buchkina, secretary; Karen Kuntz, treasurer; Brian Horak, Elena Boriuk and Alina Vamanu.
Fr. Ignatius is Traveling
Fr. Ignatius will be out of town from July 16-27, combining a vacation with attendance at the Archdiocese Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Please do not hesitate to communicate with him during this time if necessary. If you need a priest in person for an emergency, please contact Fr. Peter Andronache at 319-804-8502.
Services on Sunday, July 21
On Sunday, July 21, we will have matins at 9:00AM and Typica, without the Eucharist, at 10:00AM. There is no need to fast before services this morning. As Typica is much shorter than Liturgy, coffee hour will begin earlier than usual.
Do You Shop at Amazon.com?-
If you make purchases on Amazon.com, there is a simple and easy way to benefit the church while doing so. If you go to Amazon's companion site, smile.amazon.com, you will find all of the same items for purchase (at the same prices) as are found on the main site. Once you sign in, you will be asked what charity you would like to benefit. Enter "St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Christian Church" and 0.5% of qualifying purchases will be given back to the church. It's that simple.
Are You on Twitter?
So is St. Raphael Church! You can follow us at @straphael_ic
Church Cookbook for Sale
Did you know that St. Raphael Church produced a cookbook? "East, West, and Midwest: 101 Recipes from an International Potluck" is available at our church bookstore and also on amazon.com. https://www.amazon.com/East-West-Midwest-Time-Tested-International/dp/0615795579/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=east+west+midwest+cookbook&qid=1563138732&s=gateway&sr=8-5
Vacation Church School at St. George
St. George Church in Cedar Rapids invites all children in grades K-5 to attend their Vacation Church School July 31-August 2, 9:00AM-11:30AM. If you child is attending, please let Kareme Elossais (yazmarie78@hotmail.com or 319-329-6852) by July 21.
Housewarming Party for Joshua Morey
As a parish family, we enjoy helping each other through the transitions of life. One of our parishioners, Joshua Morey, has just graduated college, gotten his first job as a band & music teacher, and is moving out on his own: congratulations, Joshua! So we are helping him with establish himself with a housewarming party during coffee hour on Sunday, July 21. Below is a list of household items that would be useful for Joshua. Please help out with anything you can, and come to liturgy prepared to celebrate with Joshua afterwards during coffee hour on the 21st! Lori Branch is organizing this effort. Please contact her at lori-branch@uiowa,edu if you have or purchase something from this list so that we can avoid giving unneeded duplicates to Joshua.
- Butter knives
- Tongs
- Ladle
- Can opener
- Tupperware
- broom and dustpan
- cleaning supplies for kitchen and bath
- Food, spices, stuff to stock a kitchen - gift cards would be great. There's a Aldis in Marion.
- Toiletries like toilet paper, etc.
- Mop
- Trash can
Accepting Olive Oil Donations
From time to time, we run low on the olive oil that we burn in our oil lamps at church. Now is one of those times. If you would like to donate a bottle or two of regular grade (not extra-virgin) olive oil, we would be most grateful.
Looking Ahead to August
August 1-14 marks the Dormition Fast, a time of preparation through fasting and extra services leading up to the great feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. During this time, we will pray the Paraklesis service, a service of consolation for the living on the evenings of August 2, 7, 9, and 12. We mark the great feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord with liturgy on the evening of August 5, and we conclude the fast with liturgy for the Dormition on the evening of August 14.
Change Made on Saturday Evenings
From the beginning of St. Raphael Church, it has been the practice to have a reading after the dismissal of vespers on Saturday evening. At the direction of Bishop Anthony, the reading will now be replaced with a short 5-10 minute talk by Fr. Ignatius, which will take place just before the dismissal.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
July 17 Papadiamandis "The American"
July 23 Papadiamandis "Fey Folk"
July 30 Papadiamandis "At St. Anastasa's"
25th Anniversary Celebrations for the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Cicero
During November 14-17, St. George Church in Cicero, Illinois will be hosting various events to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Appearance of the Miraculous Weeping Icon of Our Lady of Cicero. Both Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony will be present. Go to: www.stgeorgechi.org/25th for more information.
Next Sundays' Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus came to the country of the Gergesenes, two demoniacs met Him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. And behold, they cried out, “What have we to do to Thee, O Son of God? Art Thou come here to torment us before the time?” Now a herd of many swine was feeding at some distance from them. And the demons begged Him, “If Thou castest us out, send us away into the herd of swine.” And He said to them, “Go.” So they came out and went into the swine; and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea, and perished in the waters. The herdsmen fled, and going into the city they told everything, and what had happened to the demoniacs. And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus; and when they saw Him, they begged Him to leave their neighborhood. And getting into a boat He crossed over and came to His own city. (Matthew 8:28-9:1)
And
At that time, Jesus got into a boat, crossed over and came to His own city. And behold, they brought to Him a paralytic, lying on his bed; and when Jesus saw their faith He said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—He then said to the paralytic—“Rise, take up your bed and go home.” And he rose and went home. When the crowds saw it, they marveled, and they glorified God, Who had given such authority to men. (Matthew 9:1-8)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
For God created man for immortality and made him an image of His own eternity.
Wisdom of Solomon 2:23
Sunday July 7, 2019, 3rd Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
July 9, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour prayers, 3:00PM
July 10, Wednesday
+ 1:45PM-4:00PM, Office Hours
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
July 11, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 12, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
July 13, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 14, Sunday, (Sunday of the Holy Fathers)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Housewarming Party for Joshua Morey
As a parish family, we enjoy helping each other through the transitions of life. One of our parishioners, Joshua Morey, has just graduated college, gotten his first job as a band & music teacher, and is moving out on his own: congratulations, Joshua! So we are helping him with establish himself with a housewarming party during coffee hour on Sunday, July 21. Below is a list of household items that would be useful for Joshua. Please help out with anything you can, and come to liturgy prepared to celebrate with Joshua afterwards during coffee hour on the 21st! Lori Branch is organizing this effort. Please contact her at lori-branch@uiowa,edu if you have or purchase something from this list so that we can avoid giving unneeded duplicates to Joshua.
Change Made on Saturday Evenings
From the beginning of St. Raphael Church, it has been the practice to have a reading after the dismissal of vespers on Saturday evening. At the direction of Bishop Anthony, the reading will now be replaced with a short 5-10 minute talk by Fr. Ignatius, which will take place just before the dismissal.
July-August Calendars Available
The printed calendars for July and August are now available at church.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
July 10 Papadiamandis, "The Easter Chanter"
July 17 Papadiamandis "The American"
July 23 Papadiamandis "Fey Folk"
July 30 Papadiamandis "At St. Anastasa's"
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said to His Disciples: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father Who is in heaven. Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them, but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-19)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
"When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, 'Abba, Father!' Therefore, you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ."
Galatians 4:5-6
July 9, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour prayers, 3:00PM
July 10, Wednesday
+ 1:45PM-4:00PM, Office Hours
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
July 11, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 12, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
July 13, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 14, Sunday, (Sunday of the Holy Fathers)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Housewarming Party for Joshua Morey
As a parish family, we enjoy helping each other through the transitions of life. One of our parishioners, Joshua Morey, has just graduated college, gotten his first job as a band & music teacher, and is moving out on his own: congratulations, Joshua! So we are helping him with establish himself with a housewarming party during coffee hour on Sunday, July 21. Below is a list of household items that would be useful for Joshua. Please help out with anything you can, and come to liturgy prepared to celebrate with Joshua afterwards during coffee hour on the 21st! Lori Branch is organizing this effort. Please contact her at lori-branch@uiowa,edu if you have or purchase something from this list so that we can avoid giving unneeded duplicates to Joshua.
- Butter knives
- Tongs
- Rolling pin
- Ladle
- Can opener
- 9 x 13 pan
- Tupperware
- broom and dustpan
- cleaning supplies for kitchen and bath
- Food, spices, stuff to stock a kitchen - gift cards would be great. There's a Aldis in Marion.
- Toiletries like toilet paper, etc.
- Vacuum - only two rooms are carpeted so not something fancy
- Mop
- Trash can
Change Made on Saturday Evenings
From the beginning of St. Raphael Church, it has been the practice to have a reading after the dismissal of vespers on Saturday evening. At the direction of Bishop Anthony, the reading will now be replaced with a short 5-10 minute talk by Fr. Ignatius, which will take place just before the dismissal.
July-August Calendars Available
The printed calendars for July and August are now available at church.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
July 10 Papadiamandis, "The Easter Chanter"
July 17 Papadiamandis "The American"
July 23 Papadiamandis "Fey Folk"
July 30 Papadiamandis "At St. Anastasa's"
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said to His Disciples: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father Who is in heaven. Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them, but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-19)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
"When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, 'Abba, Father!' Therefore, you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ."
Galatians 4:5-6
Sunday June 30, 2019, Synaxis of the Holy Apostles
This Week's Services and Events
July 3, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
July 5, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
July 6, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 7, Sunday, (Third Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Thank You
Thank you to all who helped out with all the little extra things that need attending to when the bishop comes for a visit. Special thanks to our choir led by Kristi and Lori. The bishop was very happy with how the choir sounded. Many thanks also to those who helped in the altar including Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd), Josiah, Serafim, Paul, and Connor. It was a blessed weekend with our archpastor. May God grant Bishop Anthony many years!
Pray for Campers and Staff
At Camp St. George this week, we have six campers attending (Paul, Georgiana, Nina, Nicole, Luka and Serafim) and two staff members attending, Anastasia and Fr. Ignatius. Please keep them in your prayers. Church summer camp is an important part of the spiritual and emotional formation of the lives of the children who attend.
No Office Hours of Hours Prayers Tuesday through Thursday
Fr. Ignatius will be on staff at Camp St. George July 2-4 this week.
Housewarming Party for Joshua Morey
As a parish family, we enjoy helping each other through the transitions of life. One of our parishioners, Joshua Morey, has just graduated college, gotten his first job as a band & music teacher, and is moving out on his own: congratulations, Joshua! So we are helping him with establish himself with a housewarming party during coffee hour on Sunday, July 21. Below is a list of household items that would be useful for Joshua. Please help out with anything you can, and come to liturgy prepared to celebrate with Joshua afterwards during coffee hour on the 21st!
July-August Calendars Available
The printed calendars for July and August are now available at church.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings. Copies of the novella The Murderess are now in stock at church and available to be picked up.
July 3 Papadiamandis, The Murderess
July 10 Papadiamandis, "The Easter Chanter"
July 17 Papadiamandis "The American"
July 23 Papadiamandis "Fey Folk"
July 30 Papadiamandis "At St. Anastasa's"
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is sound, your whole body will be full of light; but if your eye is evil, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness! No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore, I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink; nor about your body, what you shall put on. Is not the soul more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of heaven: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his stature? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin; yet I tell you, even Solomon himself in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O men of little faith? Therefore, do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek all these things; and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things shall be yours as well.” (Matthew 6:22-33)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
How filled with sweetness are those whose thoughts dwell on Thee; how life-giving Thy holy Word. To speak with Thee is more soothing than anointing with oil; sweeter than the honeycomb. To pray to Thee lifts the spirit, refreshes the soul. Where Thou art not, there is only emptiness; hearts are smitten with sadness; nature, and life itself, become sorrowful; where Thou art, the soul is filled with abundance, and its song resounds like a torrent of life: Alleluia!
Kontakion 4 from the Akathist "Glory to God for All Things"
July 3, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
July 5, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
July 6, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 7, Sunday, (Third Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Thank You
Thank you to all who helped out with all the little extra things that need attending to when the bishop comes for a visit. Special thanks to our choir led by Kristi and Lori. The bishop was very happy with how the choir sounded. Many thanks also to those who helped in the altar including Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd), Josiah, Serafim, Paul, and Connor. It was a blessed weekend with our archpastor. May God grant Bishop Anthony many years!
Pray for Campers and Staff
At Camp St. George this week, we have six campers attending (Paul, Georgiana, Nina, Nicole, Luka and Serafim) and two staff members attending, Anastasia and Fr. Ignatius. Please keep them in your prayers. Church summer camp is an important part of the spiritual and emotional formation of the lives of the children who attend.
No Office Hours of Hours Prayers Tuesday through Thursday
Fr. Ignatius will be on staff at Camp St. George July 2-4 this week.
Housewarming Party for Joshua Morey
As a parish family, we enjoy helping each other through the transitions of life. One of our parishioners, Joshua Morey, has just graduated college, gotten his first job as a band & music teacher, and is moving out on his own: congratulations, Joshua! So we are helping him with establish himself with a housewarming party during coffee hour on Sunday, July 21. Below is a list of household items that would be useful for Joshua. Please help out with anything you can, and come to liturgy prepared to celebrate with Joshua afterwards during coffee hour on the 21st!
- Butter knives
- Tongs
- Rolling pin
- Ladle
- Can opener
- 9 x 13 pan
- Tupperware
- broom and dustpan
- cleaning supplies for kitchen and bath
- Food, spices, stuff to stock a kitchen - gift cards would be great. There's a Aldis in Marion.
- Toiletries like toilet paper, etc.
- T.V. small one
- DVD player
- Vacuum - only two rooms are carpeted so not something fancy
- Mop
- Trash can
July-August Calendars Available
The printed calendars for July and August are now available at church.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
In July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings. Copies of the novella The Murderess are now in stock at church and available to be picked up.
July 3 Papadiamandis, The Murderess
July 10 Papadiamandis, "The Easter Chanter"
July 17 Papadiamandis "The American"
July 23 Papadiamandis "Fey Folk"
July 30 Papadiamandis "At St. Anastasa's"
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is sound, your whole body will be full of light; but if your eye is evil, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness! No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore, I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink; nor about your body, what you shall put on. Is not the soul more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of heaven: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his stature? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin; yet I tell you, even Solomon himself in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O men of little faith? Therefore, do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek all these things; and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things shall be yours as well.” (Matthew 6:22-33)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
How filled with sweetness are those whose thoughts dwell on Thee; how life-giving Thy holy Word. To speak with Thee is more soothing than anointing with oil; sweeter than the honeycomb. To pray to Thee lifts the spirit, refreshes the soul. Where Thou art not, there is only emptiness; hearts are smitten with sadness; nature, and life itself, become sorrowful; where Thou art, the soul is filled with abundance, and its song resounds like a torrent of life: Alleluia!
Kontakion 4 from the Akathist "Glory to God for All Things"
Sunday June 23, 2019, All Saints Sunday
This Week's Services and Events
June 25, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 26, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
June 27, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 28, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
June 29, Saturday
+ Matins and Liturgy for Sts. Peter and Paul, 8:45AM/10:00AM
+ Roundtable Discussion with Bishop Anthony (with refreshments), 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
June 30, Sunday, (Synaxis of the Apostles)
+ Matins, 8:30AM
+ Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Katie Mauger-Sonnek was received into the Holy Orthodox Church today through the sacrament of chrismation. Her patron saint is the Great-martyr Katherine of Alexandria. Her sponsor is Lori Branch. May God grant her many years!
Congratulations!
At the recent Diocese of Toledo and the Midwest Parish Life Conference in Urbana, Illinois, Josiah Valentine was part of the 3rd place winning Teen Bible Bowl team, teaming up with two teens from All Saints of North America Church in the St. Louis, Missouri area.
Schedule for Weekend with Bishop Anthony (June 29-30)
Please plan to be with us!
Saturday, June 29- Matins and Liturgy for Sts. Peter and Paul, 8:45/10AM; Parish-wide Roundtable discussion with the Bishop (refreshments will be served), 3PM; Great Vespers, 5PM
Sunday, June 30- Matins at 8:30AM and Hierarchical Liturgy at 10AM, followed by coffee hour.
Coffee Hour Camping Fundraiser
Next Sunday is the fifth Sunday of the month. Our families who are involved with Camp St. George will be hosting the coffee hour meal. They will be asking for donations that will go into the camp tuition fund for next year.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We have resumed Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We are discussing stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings. Copies of the novella The Murderess are now in stock at church and available to be picked up.
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
July 3 Papadiamandis, The Murderess
July 10 Papadiamandis, "The Easter Chanter"
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus saw the crowds, He had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then He said to His Disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” And He called to Him His twelve Disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. The names of the twelve Apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Him. These twelve Jesus sent out, charging them, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles, and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And preach as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying, give without pay.” (Matthew 9:36-10:8)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?
~ Micah 6:8
June 25, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 26, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
June 27, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 28, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
June 29, Saturday
+ Matins and Liturgy for Sts. Peter and Paul, 8:45AM/10:00AM
+ Roundtable Discussion with Bishop Anthony (with refreshments), 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
June 30, Sunday, (Synaxis of the Apostles)
+ Matins, 8:30AM
+ Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Katie Mauger-Sonnek was received into the Holy Orthodox Church today through the sacrament of chrismation. Her patron saint is the Great-martyr Katherine of Alexandria. Her sponsor is Lori Branch. May God grant her many years!
Congratulations!
At the recent Diocese of Toledo and the Midwest Parish Life Conference in Urbana, Illinois, Josiah Valentine was part of the 3rd place winning Teen Bible Bowl team, teaming up with two teens from All Saints of North America Church in the St. Louis, Missouri area.
Schedule for Weekend with Bishop Anthony (June 29-30)
Please plan to be with us!
Saturday, June 29- Matins and Liturgy for Sts. Peter and Paul, 8:45/10AM; Parish-wide Roundtable discussion with the Bishop (refreshments will be served), 3PM; Great Vespers, 5PM
Sunday, June 30- Matins at 8:30AM and Hierarchical Liturgy at 10AM, followed by coffee hour.
Coffee Hour Camping Fundraiser
Next Sunday is the fifth Sunday of the month. Our families who are involved with Camp St. George will be hosting the coffee hour meal. They will be asking for donations that will go into the camp tuition fund for next year.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We have resumed Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We are discussing stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings. Copies of the novella The Murderess are now in stock at church and available to be picked up.
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
July 3 Papadiamandis, The Murderess
July 10 Papadiamandis, "The Easter Chanter"
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus saw the crowds, He had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then He said to His Disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” And He called to Him His twelve Disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. The names of the twelve Apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Him. These twelve Jesus sent out, charging them, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles, and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And preach as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying, give without pay.” (Matthew 9:36-10:8)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?
~ Micah 6:8
Sunday June 16, 2019, Pentecost Sunday
This Week's Services and Events
June 18, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 19, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
June 22, Saturday
+ Reader's Vespers, 5:00PM
June 23, Sunday, (Sunday of All Saints)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
No Kneeling Vespers
Due to a conflict with Fr. Ignatius's schedule, there will be no Kneeling Vespers of Pentecost this evening.
Bishop Anthony's Pentecost Letter
Is attached!
Congratulations!
Connor Ward was received into the Holy Orthodox Church today through the sacrament of chrismation. His patron saint is St. Patrick, Enlightener of Ireland. His sponsor is Kh. Maria Valentine. May God grant him many years!
Happy Father's Day
To all fathers and godfathers, may God grant you many years!
No Fasting This Week
The week between Pentecost Sunday and All Saints Sunday is fast free, including on Wednesday and Friday, as a respite before the start of the Apostles' Fast which, this year, is June 24-28.
Fr Ignatius is Traveling
Fr Ignatius is attending the annual Midwest Diocese Parish Life Conference in Urbana, Illinois from June 19-22. There will be no office hours or Prayers of the Hours on those days.
Schedule for Weekend with Bishop Anthony (June 29-30)
Please plan to be with us!
Saturday, June 29- Matins and Liturgy for Sts. Peter and Paul, 8:45/10AM; Parish-wide Roundtable discussion with the Bishop (refreshments will be served), 3PM; Great Vespers, 5PM
Sunday, June 30- Matins at 8:30AM and Hierarchical Liturgy at 10AM, followed by coffee hour.
Parish Council Membership Change
As Bill Spencer resigned from the council as he was preparing to move away, we are happy that Elena Boriuk has agreed to finish out Bill's term. Thank you Elena!
Treasurer Minute
Our treasurer, Karen Kuntz, will be communicating with us regularly about various aspects of our beloved church's finances. Attached is her first "Treasurer Minute"
Former St. Raphael Church Member Tonsured a Nun
Stephanie Bewell, who moved away from Iowa City in 2012, was recently tonsured a nun at the St. John John Chysostomos Monastery near Kenosha, Wisconsin. She has been living there since 2013. Her tonsured name is Sister Paisia, after St. Paisios the Athonite, a recently glorified saint.
Prophetic Life and Authority in the Church
"Prophetic Life and Authority in the Church" is the teaching of Archimandrite Zacharias Zachariou, of the St. John the Baptist Monastery at Essex, England. In this essay, the elder gives the Orthodox understanding of how the gift of prophecy functions in the Church even today. https://www.saintgeorgekearney.com/prophetic_life_and_authority_in_the_church.html
Beautification and Grounds Committee to Form
Recently, there has been much work done to improve and beautify our front yard. Also, significant time and effort has been spent on adorning the interior of our church with various floral arrangements. Knowing that not everyone has the same ideas for how best to continue to beautify the interior and exterior of our building and grounds, the Parish Council is asking for volunteers to form a new Beautification and Grounds Committee. This committee will either have a parish council member on the committee, who will report on the committee's work to the parish council, or will send a liaison to the monthly council meetings in order to report and ask for council approval of major changes. The scope of the work of this committee will be the continued upkeep and improvement of the grounds and the building, both interior and exterior, with a special focus and enhancing beauty through various means. If you would like to contribute your skills and ideas to this effort by serving on this committee, please speak to Fr. Ignatius.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We have resumed Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We are discussing stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
June 19 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Role of the Church in the Modern World”
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
July 3 Papadiamandis, The Murderess
July 10 Papadiamandis, "The Easter Chanter"
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said to His disciples, “Everyone who acknowledges Me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father Who is in heaven; but whoever denies Me before men, I also will deny before My Father Who is in heaven. He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who does not take his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.” Then Peter said in reply, “Lo, we have left everything and followed Thee. What then shall we have?” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the New World, when the Son of Man shall sit on His glorious throne, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My Name’s sake, will receive a hundred fold, and inherit eternal life. But many that are first will be last, and the last first.” (Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38, 19:27-30)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
"Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit."
Ephesians 2:19-22
June 18, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 19, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
June 22, Saturday
+ Reader's Vespers, 5:00PM
June 23, Sunday, (Sunday of All Saints)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
No Kneeling Vespers
Due to a conflict with Fr. Ignatius's schedule, there will be no Kneeling Vespers of Pentecost this evening.
Bishop Anthony's Pentecost Letter
Is attached!
Congratulations!
Connor Ward was received into the Holy Orthodox Church today through the sacrament of chrismation. His patron saint is St. Patrick, Enlightener of Ireland. His sponsor is Kh. Maria Valentine. May God grant him many years!
Happy Father's Day
To all fathers and godfathers, may God grant you many years!
No Fasting This Week
The week between Pentecost Sunday and All Saints Sunday is fast free, including on Wednesday and Friday, as a respite before the start of the Apostles' Fast which, this year, is June 24-28.
Fr Ignatius is Traveling
Fr Ignatius is attending the annual Midwest Diocese Parish Life Conference in Urbana, Illinois from June 19-22. There will be no office hours or Prayers of the Hours on those days.
Schedule for Weekend with Bishop Anthony (June 29-30)
Please plan to be with us!
Saturday, June 29- Matins and Liturgy for Sts. Peter and Paul, 8:45/10AM; Parish-wide Roundtable discussion with the Bishop (refreshments will be served), 3PM; Great Vespers, 5PM
Sunday, June 30- Matins at 8:30AM and Hierarchical Liturgy at 10AM, followed by coffee hour.
Parish Council Membership Change
As Bill Spencer resigned from the council as he was preparing to move away, we are happy that Elena Boriuk has agreed to finish out Bill's term. Thank you Elena!
Treasurer Minute
Our treasurer, Karen Kuntz, will be communicating with us regularly about various aspects of our beloved church's finances. Attached is her first "Treasurer Minute"
Former St. Raphael Church Member Tonsured a Nun
Stephanie Bewell, who moved away from Iowa City in 2012, was recently tonsured a nun at the St. John John Chysostomos Monastery near Kenosha, Wisconsin. She has been living there since 2013. Her tonsured name is Sister Paisia, after St. Paisios the Athonite, a recently glorified saint.
Prophetic Life and Authority in the Church
"Prophetic Life and Authority in the Church" is the teaching of Archimandrite Zacharias Zachariou, of the St. John the Baptist Monastery at Essex, England. In this essay, the elder gives the Orthodox understanding of how the gift of prophecy functions in the Church even today. https://www.saintgeorgekearney.com/prophetic_life_and_authority_in_the_church.html
Beautification and Grounds Committee to Form
Recently, there has been much work done to improve and beautify our front yard. Also, significant time and effort has been spent on adorning the interior of our church with various floral arrangements. Knowing that not everyone has the same ideas for how best to continue to beautify the interior and exterior of our building and grounds, the Parish Council is asking for volunteers to form a new Beautification and Grounds Committee. This committee will either have a parish council member on the committee, who will report on the committee's work to the parish council, or will send a liaison to the monthly council meetings in order to report and ask for council approval of major changes. The scope of the work of this committee will be the continued upkeep and improvement of the grounds and the building, both interior and exterior, with a special focus and enhancing beauty through various means. If you would like to contribute your skills and ideas to this effort by serving on this committee, please speak to Fr. Ignatius.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We have resumed Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We are discussing stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
June 19 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Role of the Church in the Modern World”
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
July 3 Papadiamandis, The Murderess
July 10 Papadiamandis, "The Easter Chanter"
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said to His disciples, “Everyone who acknowledges Me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father Who is in heaven; but whoever denies Me before men, I also will deny before My Father Who is in heaven. He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who does not take his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.” Then Peter said in reply, “Lo, we have left everything and followed Thee. What then shall we have?” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the New World, when the Son of Man shall sit on His glorious throne, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My Name’s sake, will receive a hundred fold, and inherit eternal life. But many that are first will be last, and the last first.” (Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38, 19:27-30)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
"Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit."
Ephesians 2:19-22
Sunday June 9, 2019, Sunday after Ascension (Sunday of the 1st Ecumenical Council)
This Week's Services and Events
June 11, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 12, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
June 13, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 14, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
June 15, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
June 16, Sunday, (The Great Feast of Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
+ Pentecost Kneeling Vespers, 6:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Letter from Bishop Anthony
Bishop Anthony has written to us about the Feast of Ascension and the upcoming Diocesan Parish Life Conference in Urbana, Illinois. Please see attachment.
Beautification and Grounds Committee to Form
Recently, there has been much work done to improve and beautify our front yard. Also, significant time and effort has been spent on adorning the interior of our church with various floral arrangements. Knowing that not everyone has the same ideas for how best to continue to beautify the interior and exterior of our building and grounds, the Parish Council is asking for volunteers to form a new Beautification and Grounds Committee. This committee will either have a parish council member on the committee, who will report on the committee's work to the parish council, or will send a liaison to the monthly council meetings in order to report and ask for council approval of major changes. The scope of the work of this committee will be the continued upkeep and improvement of the grounds and the building, both interior and exterior, with a special focus and enhancing beauty through various means. If you would like to contribute your skills and ideas to this effort by serving on this committee, please speak to Fr. Ignatius.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We have resumed Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We are discussing stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
June 12 Fr. Alexander Men, “Life in the Church”
June 19 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Role of the Church in the Modern World”
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
Schedule for Weekend with Bishop Anthony (June 29-30)
Please plan to be with us!
Saturday, June 29- Matins and Liturgy for Sts. Peter and Paul, 8:45/10AM; Parish-wide Roundtable discussion with the Bishop (refreshments will be served), 3PM; Great Vespers, 5PM
Sunday, June 30- Matins at 8:30AM and Hierarchical Liturgy at 10AM, followed by coffee hour.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and proclaimed, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.’” Now this He said about the Spirit, which those who believed in Him were to receive; for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. When they heard these words, many of the people said, “This is really the prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? Has not the Scripture said that the Christ is descended from David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” So there was a division among the people over Him. Some of them wanted to arrest Him, but no one laid hands on Him. The officers then went back to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring Him?” The officers answered, “No man ever spoke like this man!” The Pharisees answered them, “Are you led astray, you also? Have any of the authorities or the Pharisees believed in Him? But this crowd, who do not know the Law, are accursed.” Nicodemus, who had gone to Him before, and who was one of them, said to them, “Does our Law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?” They replied, “Are you from Galilee too? Search and you will see that no prophet is to rise from Galilee.” Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 7:37-52, 8:12)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
A generous person will prosper. Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Proverbs 11:25
June 11, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 12, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
June 13, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 14, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
June 15, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
June 16, Sunday, (The Great Feast of Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
+ Pentecost Kneeling Vespers, 6:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Letter from Bishop Anthony
Bishop Anthony has written to us about the Feast of Ascension and the upcoming Diocesan Parish Life Conference in Urbana, Illinois. Please see attachment.
Beautification and Grounds Committee to Form
Recently, there has been much work done to improve and beautify our front yard. Also, significant time and effort has been spent on adorning the interior of our church with various floral arrangements. Knowing that not everyone has the same ideas for how best to continue to beautify the interior and exterior of our building and grounds, the Parish Council is asking for volunteers to form a new Beautification and Grounds Committee. This committee will either have a parish council member on the committee, who will report on the committee's work to the parish council, or will send a liaison to the monthly council meetings in order to report and ask for council approval of major changes. The scope of the work of this committee will be the continued upkeep and improvement of the grounds and the building, both interior and exterior, with a special focus and enhancing beauty through various means. If you would like to contribute your skills and ideas to this effort by serving on this committee, please speak to Fr. Ignatius.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We have resumed Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We are discussing stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
June 12 Fr. Alexander Men, “Life in the Church”
June 19 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Role of the Church in the Modern World”
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
Schedule for Weekend with Bishop Anthony (June 29-30)
Please plan to be with us!
Saturday, June 29- Matins and Liturgy for Sts. Peter and Paul, 8:45/10AM; Parish-wide Roundtable discussion with the Bishop (refreshments will be served), 3PM; Great Vespers, 5PM
Sunday, June 30- Matins at 8:30AM and Hierarchical Liturgy at 10AM, followed by coffee hour.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and proclaimed, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.’” Now this He said about the Spirit, which those who believed in Him were to receive; for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. When they heard these words, many of the people said, “This is really the prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? Has not the Scripture said that the Christ is descended from David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” So there was a division among the people over Him. Some of them wanted to arrest Him, but no one laid hands on Him. The officers then went back to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring Him?” The officers answered, “No man ever spoke like this man!” The Pharisees answered them, “Are you led astray, you also? Have any of the authorities or the Pharisees believed in Him? But this crowd, who do not know the Law, are accursed.” Nicodemus, who had gone to Him before, and who was one of them, said to them, “Does our Law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?” They replied, “Are you from Galilee too? Search and you will see that no prophet is to rise from Galilee.” Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 7:37-52, 8:12)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
A generous person will prosper. Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Proverbs 11:25
Sunday June 2, 2019, 6th Sunday of Pascha (Sunday of the Blind Man)
Christ is risen! Khristos haryav i merelotz! Kristo Amefufukka!
This Week's Services and Events
June 4, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 5, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for Ascension, 6:00PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
June 6, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 7, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
June 8, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
June 9, Sunday, (Sunday after Ascension)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Contact Information for the Spencers
Bill and Amy wish to share their new postal address and email addresses.
They are:
550 Autumn Crest Circle Unit E
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Bill wkspencerjr@gmail.com
Amy editunited@gmail.com
Beautification and Grounds Committee to Form
Recently, there has been much work done to improve and beautify our front yard. Also, significant time and effort has been spent on adorning the interior of our church with various floral arrangements. Knowing that not everyone has the same ideas for how best to continue to beautify the interior and exterior of our building and grounds, the Parish Council is asking for volunteers to form a new Beautification and Grounds Committee. This committee will either have a parish council member on the committee, who will report on the committee's work to the parish council, or will send a liaison to the monthly council meetings in order to report and ask for council approval of major changes. The scope of the work of this committee will be the continued upkeep and improvement of the grounds and the building, both interior and exterior, with a special focus and enhancing beauty through various means. If you would like to contribute your skills and ideas to this effort by serving on this committee, please speak to Fr. Ignatius.
Today is Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday
Did you know that there is an Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry that works with those incarcerated, and their families, to bring the light of Christ and His Holy Church into their lives? To learn more about the good work that they do, go to: www.ocpm.org. They are always looking for donors and volunteers to help them achieve their mission.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We have resumed Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We are discussing stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
June 5 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Paschal Mystery of the Church”
June 12 Fr. Alexander Men, “Life in the Church”
June 19 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Role of the Church in the Modern World”
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
Schedule for Weekend with Bishop Anthony (June 29-30)
Please plan to be with us!
Saturday, June 29- Matins and Liturgy for Sts. Peter and Paul, 8:45/10AM; Parish-wide Roundtable discussion with the Bishop (refreshments will be served), 3PM; Great Vespers, 5PM
Sunday, June 30- Matins at 8:30AM and Hierarchical Liturgy at 10AM, followed by coffee hour.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus lifted up His eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Thy Son that the Son may glorify Thee, since Thou hast given Him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom Thou hast given Him. And this is eternal life, that they know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ Whom Thou hast sent. I glorified Thee on earth, having accomplished the work which Thou gavest Me to do; and now, Father, glorify Thou Me in Thy own presence with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was made. I have manifested Thy Name to the men whom Thou gavest Me out of the world; Thine they were, and Thou gavest them to Me, and they have kept Thy word. Now they know that everything that Thou hast given Me is from Thee; for I have given them the words which Thou gavest Me, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from Thee; and they have believed that Thou didst send Me. I am praying for them; I am not praying for the world but for those whom Thou hast given Me, for they are Thine; all Mine are Thine, and Thine are Mine, and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to Thee. Holy Father, keep them in Thy Name, which Thou hast given Me, that they may be one, even as We are one. While I was with them, I kept them in Thy Name, which Thou have given Me; I have guarded them, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition, that the scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to Thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.” (John 17:1-13)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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 sensible man, taking into account the remedial effect of the divine prescriptions, gladly bears the sufferings which they bring upon him, since he is aware that they have no cause other than his own sin. But when the fool, ignorant of the supreme wisdom of God’s providence, sins and is corrected, he regards either God or men as responsible for the hardships he suffers.
+ St. Maximos the Confessor, Four Hundred Texts on Love 2.46, The Philokalia: The Complete Text (Vol. 2)
This Week's Services and Events
June 4, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 5, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for Ascension, 6:00PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
June 6, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
June 7, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
June 8, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
June 9, Sunday, (Sunday after Ascension)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Contact Information for the Spencers
Bill and Amy wish to share their new postal address and email addresses.
They are:
550 Autumn Crest Circle Unit E
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Bill wkspencerjr@gmail.com
Amy editunited@gmail.com
Beautification and Grounds Committee to Form
Recently, there has been much work done to improve and beautify our front yard. Also, significant time and effort has been spent on adorning the interior of our church with various floral arrangements. Knowing that not everyone has the same ideas for how best to continue to beautify the interior and exterior of our building and grounds, the Parish Council is asking for volunteers to form a new Beautification and Grounds Committee. This committee will either have a parish council member on the committee, who will report on the committee's work to the parish council, or will send a liaison to the monthly council meetings in order to report and ask for council approval of major changes. The scope of the work of this committee will be the continued upkeep and improvement of the grounds and the building, both interior and exterior, with a special focus and enhancing beauty through various means. If you would like to contribute your skills and ideas to this effort by serving on this committee, please speak to Fr. Ignatius.
Today is Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday
Did you know that there is an Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry that works with those incarcerated, and their families, to bring the light of Christ and His Holy Church into their lives? To learn more about the good work that they do, go to: www.ocpm.org. They are always looking for donors and volunteers to help them achieve their mission.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We have resumed Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We are discussing stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
June 5 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Paschal Mystery of the Church”
June 12 Fr. Alexander Men, “Life in the Church”
June 19 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Role of the Church in the Modern World”
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
Schedule for Weekend with Bishop Anthony (June 29-30)
Please plan to be with us!
Saturday, June 29- Matins and Liturgy for Sts. Peter and Paul, 8:45/10AM; Parish-wide Roundtable discussion with the Bishop (refreshments will be served), 3PM; Great Vespers, 5PM
Sunday, June 30- Matins at 8:30AM and Hierarchical Liturgy at 10AM, followed by coffee hour.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus lifted up His eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Thy Son that the Son may glorify Thee, since Thou hast given Him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom Thou hast given Him. And this is eternal life, that they know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ Whom Thou hast sent. I glorified Thee on earth, having accomplished the work which Thou gavest Me to do; and now, Father, glorify Thou Me in Thy own presence with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was made. I have manifested Thy Name to the men whom Thou gavest Me out of the world; Thine they were, and Thou gavest them to Me, and they have kept Thy word. Now they know that everything that Thou hast given Me is from Thee; for I have given them the words which Thou gavest Me, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from Thee; and they have believed that Thou didst send Me. I am praying for them; I am not praying for the world but for those whom Thou hast given Me, for they are Thine; all Mine are Thine, and Thine are Mine, and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to Thee. Holy Father, keep them in Thy Name, which Thou hast given Me, that they may be one, even as We are one. While I was with them, I kept them in Thy Name, which Thou have given Me; I have guarded them, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition, that the scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to Thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.” (John 17:1-13)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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 sensible man, taking into account the remedial effect of the divine prescriptions, gladly bears the sufferings which they bring upon him, since he is aware that they have no cause other than his own sin. But when the fool, ignorant of the supreme wisdom of God’s providence, sins and is corrected, he regards either God or men as responsible for the hardships he suffers.
+ St. Maximos the Confessor, Four Hundred Texts on Love 2.46, The Philokalia: The Complete Text (Vol. 2)
Sunday May 26, 2019, 5th Sunday of Pascha (Sunday of the Samaritan Woman)
Christ is risen! Christos tensiou! Tha Crìosd air èiridh!
This Week's Services and Events
May 28, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 29, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
May 30, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 31, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
June 1, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
June 2, Sunday, (6th Sunday of Pascha)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Anastasia Surguladze and Liz Nodia who both graduated from West High School. May God grant them many years!
So Long...Farewell...
We wish Bill and Amy Spencer all the best as they move to Colorado Springs later this week. We thank them for everything they have done to contribute to the life and well being of St. Raphael Church over the last 12 years or so. May God grant them many years!
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We will resume Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We will discuss stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
May 29 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Church and History”
June 5 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Paschal Mystery of the Church”
June 12 Fr. Alexander Men, “Life in the Church”
June 19 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Role of the Church in the Modern World”
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
Lenten Fasting Turns to Paschal Feasting
Following Antiochian tradition, we abstain from fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays for the full 40-day Paschal season, until after the Feast of the Ascension, on June 6. Christ is risen!
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus answered, "It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in him. We must work the works of him who sent me, while it is day; night comes, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." As he said this, he spat on the ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man's eyes with the clay, saying to him, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam" (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came back seeing. The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar, said, "Is not this the man who used to sit and beg?" Some said, "It is he"; others said, "No, but he is like him." He said, "I am the man." They said to him, "Then how were your eyes opened?" He answered, "The man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes and said to me, 'Go to Siloam and wash'; so I went and washed and received my sight." They said to him, "Where is he?" He said, "I do not know. They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. Now it was a sabbath day when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. The Pharisees again asked him how he had received his sight. And he said to them, "He put clay on my eyes and I washed, and I see." Some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from God, for he does not keep the sabbath." But others said, "How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?" There was a division among them. So they again said to the blind man, "What do you say about him, since he has opened your eyes?" He said, "He is a prophet. The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight, until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight, and asked them, "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?" His parents answered, "We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; but how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age, he will speak for himself." His parents said this because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if anyone should confess him to be Christ he was to be put out of the synagogue. Therefore his parents said, "He is of age, ask him. So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and said to him, "Give God the praise; we know that this man is a sinner." He answered, "Whether he is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I know, that though I was blind, now I see." They said to him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" He answered them, "I have told you already and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you too want to become his disciples?" And they reviled him, saying, "You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he comes from." The man answered, "Why, this is a marvel! You do not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does his will, God listens to him. Never since the world began has it been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing." They answered him, "You were born in utter sin, and would you teach us?" And they cast him out. Jesus heard that they had cast him out, and having found him he said, "Do you believe in the Son of man?" He answered, "And who is he, sir, that I may believe in him?" Jesus said to him, "You have seen him, and it is he who speaks to you." He said, "Lord, I believe"; and he worshiped him. ( John 9:1-38)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
St. Pimen, one of the Desert Fathers was asked, "How do the devils battle against us?" He answered, "They do not battle against us very often, because we do their will without even entering the fray against them. More often, our own desires are our demons, and they trouble and defeat us."
This Week's Services and Events
May 28, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 29, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Fellowship and Discussion, 7:30PM
May 30, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 31, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
June 1, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
June 2, Sunday, (6th Sunday of Pascha)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Anastasia Surguladze and Liz Nodia who both graduated from West High School. May God grant them many years!
So Long...Farewell...
We wish Bill and Amy Spencer all the best as they move to Colorado Springs later this week. We thank them for everything they have done to contribute to the life and well being of St. Raphael Church over the last 12 years or so. May God grant them many years!
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We will resume Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We will discuss stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
May 29 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Church and History”
June 5 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Paschal Mystery of the Church”
June 12 Fr. Alexander Men, “Life in the Church”
June 19 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Role of the Church in the Modern World”
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
Lenten Fasting Turns to Paschal Feasting
Following Antiochian tradition, we abstain from fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays for the full 40-day Paschal season, until after the Feast of the Ascension, on June 6. Christ is risen!
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus answered, "It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in him. We must work the works of him who sent me, while it is day; night comes, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." As he said this, he spat on the ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man's eyes with the clay, saying to him, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam" (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came back seeing. The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar, said, "Is not this the man who used to sit and beg?" Some said, "It is he"; others said, "No, but he is like him." He said, "I am the man." They said to him, "Then how were your eyes opened?" He answered, "The man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes and said to me, 'Go to Siloam and wash'; so I went and washed and received my sight." They said to him, "Where is he?" He said, "I do not know. They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. Now it was a sabbath day when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. The Pharisees again asked him how he had received his sight. And he said to them, "He put clay on my eyes and I washed, and I see." Some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from God, for he does not keep the sabbath." But others said, "How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?" There was a division among them. So they again said to the blind man, "What do you say about him, since he has opened your eyes?" He said, "He is a prophet. The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight, until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight, and asked them, "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?" His parents answered, "We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; but how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age, he will speak for himself." His parents said this because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if anyone should confess him to be Christ he was to be put out of the synagogue. Therefore his parents said, "He is of age, ask him. So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and said to him, "Give God the praise; we know that this man is a sinner." He answered, "Whether he is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I know, that though I was blind, now I see." They said to him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" He answered them, "I have told you already and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you too want to become his disciples?" And they reviled him, saying, "You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he comes from." The man answered, "Why, this is a marvel! You do not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does his will, God listens to him. Never since the world began has it been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing." They answered him, "You were born in utter sin, and would you teach us?" And they cast him out. Jesus heard that they had cast him out, and having found him he said, "Do you believe in the Son of man?" He answered, "And who is he, sir, that I may believe in him?" Jesus said to him, "You have seen him, and it is he who speaks to you." He said, "Lord, I believe"; and he worshiped him. ( John 9:1-38)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
St. Pimen, one of the Desert Fathers was asked, "How do the devils battle against us?" He answered, "They do not battle against us very often, because we do their will without even entering the fray against them. More often, our own desires are our demons, and they trouble and defeat us."
Sunday May 19, 2019, 4th Sunday of Pascha (Sunday of the Paralytic)
Christ is risen! Christos tensiou! Tha Crìosd air èiridh!
This Week's Services and Events
May 21, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 22, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
May 25, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
May 26, Sunday, (5th Sunday of Pascha)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Fr. Ignatius is Traveling
There will be no office hours or 3rd or 9th hour prayers on May 22-24 as Fr. Ignatius is traveling to Minnesota for a deanery meeting.
Are You Being Called To...?
... serve St. Raphael Church in a new way? The upcoming move of Bill and Amy Spencer is opening up opportunities for others to get involved and offer their skills, time and ideas for the building up of St Raphael Church in the service of Christ. Specifically, these are the needs that we have:
Sunday School
Our Sunday School year is drawing to a close with the last classes until Fall to be held next Sunday, May 26. We especially thank our Sunday School teachers and helpers: Sanjoy and Elsa, Robert and Lori, Lizzy, Josiah, Anastasia and Luka.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We will resume Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We will discuss stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
May 29 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Church and History”
June 5 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Paschal Mystery of the Church”
June 12 Fr. Alexander Men, “Life in the Church”
June 19 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Role of the Church in the Modern World”
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
Lenten Fasting Turns to Paschal Feasting
Following Antiochian tradition, we abstain from fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays for the full 40-day Paschal season, until after the Feast of the Ascension, on June 6. Christ is risen!
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus came to a city of Samaria, called Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and so Jesus, wearied as He was with his journey, sat down beside the well. It was about the sixth hour. There came a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” For His Disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. The Samaritan woman said to Him, “How is it that Thou, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and Who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” The woman said to Him, “Sir, Thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep; where do you get that living water? Art Thou greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, and his sons, and his cattle?” Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst forever; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.” Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come here.” The woman answered Him, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You are right in saying, ‘I have no husband’; for you have had five husbands, and he whom you now have is not your husband; this you said truly.” The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that Thou art a prophet. Our fathers worshiped on this mountain; and Thou sayest that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.” Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for such the Father seeks to worship Him. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming [He Who is called Christ]; when He comes, He will tell us all things.” Jesus said to her, “I Who speak to you am He.” Just then His Disciples came. They marveled that He was talking with a woman, but none said, “What dost Thou wish?” or, “Why art Thou talking with her?” So the woman left her water jar, and went away into the city, and said to the people, “Come, see a man Who told me all that I ever did. Can this be the Christ?” They went out of the city and were coming to Him. Meanwhile the Disciples besought Him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.” But He said to them, “I have food to eat of which you do not know.” So the Disciples said to one another, “Has anyone brought Him food?” Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him Who sent Me, and to accomplish His work. Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see how the fields are already white for harvest. He who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together. For here the saying holds true, ‘One sows and another reaps.’ I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor; others have labored, and you have entered into their labor.” Many Samaritans from that city believed in Him because of the woman’s testimony, “He said to me all that I ever did.” So when the Samaritans came to Him, they asked Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. And many more believed because of His words. They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of your words that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.” (John 4:5-42)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord.
Hebrews 12:14
This Week's Services and Events
May 21, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 22, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
May 25, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
May 26, Sunday, (5th Sunday of Pascha)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Fr. Ignatius is Traveling
There will be no office hours or 3rd or 9th hour prayers on May 22-24 as Fr. Ignatius is traveling to Minnesota for a deanery meeting.
Are You Being Called To...?
... serve St. Raphael Church in a new way? The upcoming move of Bill and Amy Spencer is opening up opportunities for others to get involved and offer their skills, time and ideas for the building up of St Raphael Church in the service of Christ. Specifically, these are the needs that we have:
- Database and church directory: maintain a database and create an up-to-date directory
- Cleaning teams Coordinator: making sure that various cleaning duties are getting done
Sunday School
Our Sunday School year is drawing to a close with the last classes until Fall to be held next Sunday, May 26. We especially thank our Sunday School teachers and helpers: Sanjoy and Elsa, Robert and Lori, Lizzy, Josiah, Anastasia and Luka.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We will resume Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We will discuss stand-alone readings each week, so that members can join in as vacation travels permit. In May-June, we will follow up our spring book group by reading articles on the Church by Fr. Alexander Men; in July we will enjoy short stories by “the Greek Dostoevsky,” Alexandros Papadiamandis; and in August, we will discuss the Epistle of St. Paul to the Philippians, one chapter each week. All are welcome! Following is the schedule for the next several weeks. Copies of the readings are available in the narthex or you can email Lori at lori-branch@uiowa.edu for an electronic copy of the readings.
May 29 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Church and History”
June 5 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Paschal Mystery of the Church”
June 12 Fr. Alexander Men, “Life in the Church”
June 19 Fr. Alexander Men, “The Role of the Church in the Modern World”
June 26 Fr. Alexander Men, “Encountering the Risen Christ”
Lenten Fasting Turns to Paschal Feasting
Following Antiochian tradition, we abstain from fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays for the full 40-day Paschal season, until after the Feast of the Ascension, on June 6. Christ is risen!
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus came to a city of Samaria, called Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and so Jesus, wearied as He was with his journey, sat down beside the well. It was about the sixth hour. There came a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” For His Disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. The Samaritan woman said to Him, “How is it that Thou, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and Who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” The woman said to Him, “Sir, Thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep; where do you get that living water? Art Thou greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, and his sons, and his cattle?” Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst forever; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.” Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come here.” The woman answered Him, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You are right in saying, ‘I have no husband’; for you have had five husbands, and he whom you now have is not your husband; this you said truly.” The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that Thou art a prophet. Our fathers worshiped on this mountain; and Thou sayest that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.” Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for such the Father seeks to worship Him. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming [He Who is called Christ]; when He comes, He will tell us all things.” Jesus said to her, “I Who speak to you am He.” Just then His Disciples came. They marveled that He was talking with a woman, but none said, “What dost Thou wish?” or, “Why art Thou talking with her?” So the woman left her water jar, and went away into the city, and said to the people, “Come, see a man Who told me all that I ever did. Can this be the Christ?” They went out of the city and were coming to Him. Meanwhile the Disciples besought Him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.” But He said to them, “I have food to eat of which you do not know.” So the Disciples said to one another, “Has anyone brought Him food?” Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him Who sent Me, and to accomplish His work. Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see how the fields are already white for harvest. He who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together. For here the saying holds true, ‘One sows and another reaps.’ I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor; others have labored, and you have entered into their labor.” Many Samaritans from that city believed in Him because of the woman’s testimony, “He said to me all that I ever did.” So when the Samaritans came to Him, they asked Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. And many more believed because of His words. They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of your words that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.” (John 4:5-42)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord.
Hebrews 12:14
Sunday May 12, 2019, 3rd Sunday of Pascha (Myrrhbearers Sunday)
Christ is risen! Kriste agsdga! Christu uyirthezhunnettu!
This Week's Services and Events
May 14, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 15, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
May 16, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:00PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 17, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
May 18, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
May 19, Sunday, (4th Sunday of Pascha)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Happy Mother's Day
To all mothers and godmothers, may God grant you many years!
Congratulations
Congratulations to Natalie Tskhakaia, who graduated from the University of Iowa with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art, to Nick Psihoyos, who graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree in Human Physiology, to Sia Tortorelis, who graduated with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology, to Marisa Mortari, who graduated from the University of Iowa with her Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Engineering, to Lizzy Valentine who graduated from the University of Iowa with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science, and to Katie Valentine who is graduating from Kirkwood Community College with an Associate degree in Humane Office Training.
Are You Being Called To...?
... serve St. Raphael Church in a new way? The upcoming move of Bill and Amy Spencer is opening up opportunities for others to get involved and offer their skills, time and ideas for the building up of St Raphael Church in the service of Christ. Specifically, these are the needs that we have.
Do You Receive Nourishment Through St. Raphael Church?
If you do, then this is Christ, the Head, feeding you through His Body, the Church. Did you know that St. Raphael Church needs between $9000-$10,000 every month to meet its financial obligations? And did you know that due to projected giving patterns, the St. Raphael Church Parish Council is expecting a significant drop in giving for the latter half of 2019? If you are not yet regularly giving to St. Raphael Church, would you consider doing so? A $50 or $100 a month pledge is not insignificant. Better yet, think of proportional giving. Some people give 10% or more of their income to the church. If you are not giving, could you give that? Or 5%? Or 8%? We have no source of income other than the voluntary gifts that come from people like you who value what is happening at our church. You can give in a variety of ways. There is a Paypal option on our website. You can set up a regular automatic withdrawal from your account. Contact our treasurer Karen Kuntz at kuntzk@me.com for more information. And also, your serving the church in various ways through volunteering your time is equally important and valued. Thank you.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We will resume Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We will start the summer discussion by focusing on five talks (one per week) of Fr. Alexander Men. We will then have five weeks of discussing a novella and four short stories from the author Alexandros Papadiamantis and we will conclude the summer with four weeks of studying and discussing St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians.
Axios!
A new archbishop was just elected for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. To learn more, go to: https://www.goarch.org/-/metropolitan-elpidophoros-of-bursa-elected-unanimously-archbishop-of-america
Lenten Fasting Turns to Paschal Feasting
Following Antiochian tradition, we abstain from fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays for the full 40-day Paschal season, until after the Feast of the Ascension, on June 6. Christ is risen!
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Hebrew called Bethesda, which has five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of invalids, blind, lame, paralyzed, waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool and troubled the water; whoever stepped in first, after the troubling of the water was healed of whatever disease he had. One man was there, who had been ill for 38 years. When Jesus saw him and knew that he had been lying there a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is troubled, and while I am going another steps down before me.” Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your pallet, and walk.” And at once the man was healed, and he took up his pallet and walked. Now that day was the Sabbath. So the Jews said to the man who was cured, “It is the Sabbath, it is not lawful for you to carry your pallet.” But he answered them, “The man who healed me said to me, ‘Take up your pallet, and walk.’” They asked him, “Who is the man who said to you, ‘Take up your pallet, and walk’?” Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, as there was a crowd in the place. Afterward, Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse befalls you.” The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus Who had healed him. (John 5:1-15)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
– Isaiah 40:31
This Week's Services and Events
May 14, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 15, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
May 16, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:00PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 17, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
May 18, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
May 19, Sunday, (4th Sunday of Pascha)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Happy Mother's Day
To all mothers and godmothers, may God grant you many years!
Congratulations
Congratulations to Natalie Tskhakaia, who graduated from the University of Iowa with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art, to Nick Psihoyos, who graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree in Human Physiology, to Sia Tortorelis, who graduated with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology, to Marisa Mortari, who graduated from the University of Iowa with her Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Engineering, to Lizzy Valentine who graduated from the University of Iowa with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science, and to Katie Valentine who is graduating from Kirkwood Community College with an Associate degree in Humane Office Training.
Are You Being Called To...?
... serve St. Raphael Church in a new way? The upcoming move of Bill and Amy Spencer is opening up opportunities for others to get involved and offer their skills, time and ideas for the building up of St Raphael Church in the service of Christ. Specifically, these are the needs that we have.
- Pantry: ordering, greeting, and yard-sign placement during services
- Database and church directory: maintain a database and create an up-to-date directory
- Cleaning teams Coordinator: making sure that various cleaning duties are getting done
- Greeters: keep list of greeters current and recruit/train
Do You Receive Nourishment Through St. Raphael Church?
If you do, then this is Christ, the Head, feeding you through His Body, the Church. Did you know that St. Raphael Church needs between $9000-$10,000 every month to meet its financial obligations? And did you know that due to projected giving patterns, the St. Raphael Church Parish Council is expecting a significant drop in giving for the latter half of 2019? If you are not yet regularly giving to St. Raphael Church, would you consider doing so? A $50 or $100 a month pledge is not insignificant. Better yet, think of proportional giving. Some people give 10% or more of their income to the church. If you are not giving, could you give that? Or 5%? Or 8%? We have no source of income other than the voluntary gifts that come from people like you who value what is happening at our church. You can give in a variety of ways. There is a Paypal option on our website. You can set up a regular automatic withdrawal from your account. Contact our treasurer Karen Kuntz at kuntzk@me.com for more information. And also, your serving the church in various ways through volunteering your time is equally important and valued. Thank you.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We will resume Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM. A new schedule to carry us through the summer months is printed up and available. We will start the summer discussion by focusing on five talks (one per week) of Fr. Alexander Men. We will then have five weeks of discussing a novella and four short stories from the author Alexandros Papadiamantis and we will conclude the summer with four weeks of studying and discussing St. Paul's Epistle to the Philippians.
Axios!
A new archbishop was just elected for the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. To learn more, go to: https://www.goarch.org/-/metropolitan-elpidophoros-of-bursa-elected-unanimously-archbishop-of-america
Lenten Fasting Turns to Paschal Feasting
Following Antiochian tradition, we abstain from fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays for the full 40-day Paschal season, until after the Feast of the Ascension, on June 6. Christ is risen!
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Hebrew called Bethesda, which has five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of invalids, blind, lame, paralyzed, waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool and troubled the water; whoever stepped in first, after the troubling of the water was healed of whatever disease he had. One man was there, who had been ill for 38 years. When Jesus saw him and knew that he had been lying there a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is troubled, and while I am going another steps down before me.” Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your pallet, and walk.” And at once the man was healed, and he took up his pallet and walked. Now that day was the Sabbath. So the Jews said to the man who was cured, “It is the Sabbath, it is not lawful for you to carry your pallet.” But he answered them, “The man who healed me said to me, ‘Take up your pallet, and walk.’” They asked him, “Who is the man who said to you, ‘Take up your pallet, and walk’?” Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, as there was a crowd in the place. Afterward, Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse befalls you.” The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus Who had healed him. (John 5:1-15)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
– Isaiah 40:31
Sunday May 5, 2019, Sunday after Pascha (Thomas Sunday)
Christ is risen! Hristos a inviat! Khristos voskrese!
This Week's Services and Events
May 7, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 8, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
May 9, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:00PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 10, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
May 11, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
May 12, Sunday, (Myrrhbearers Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Do You Receive Nourishment Through St. Raphael Church?
If you do, then this is Christ, the Head, feeding you through His Body, the Church. Did you know that St. Raphael Church needs between $9000-$10,000 every month to meet its financial obligations? And did you know that due to projected giving patterns, the St. Raphael Church Parish Council is expecting a significant drop in giving for the latter half of 2019? If you are not yet regularly giving to St. Raphael Church, would you consider doing so? A $50 or $100 a month pledge is not insignificant. Better yet, think of proportional giving. Some people give 10% or more of their income to the church. If you are not giving, could you give that? Or 5%? Or 8%? We have no source of income other than the voluntary gifts that come from people like you who value what is happening at our church. You can give in a variety of ways. There is a Paypal option on our website. You can set up a regular automatic withdrawal from your account. Contact our treasurer Karen Kuntz at kuntzk@me.com for more information. And also, your serving the church in various ways through volunteering your time is equally important and valued. Thank you.
Thank You
Thank you to Peter Kontopoulos, Newman Abuissa and Todd Wiblin for first trimming, and then removing the large bush in front of church, and to Maria Cetlaus for replacing the bush with various plantings. Thank you to Elizabeth Michael for fertilizing and seeding the front lawn.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We will resume Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM.
Lenten Fasting Turns to Paschal Feasting
Following Antiochian tradition, we abstain from fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays for the full 40-day Paschal season, until after the Feast of the Ascension, on June 6. Christ is risen!
May/June Calendars Are Printed
Calendars showing the services and other events for May and June are available in the narthex.
Food For Hungry People Donation Boxes
Please plan to bring your filled-up Food For Hungry People collection boxes back to church as soon as possible, so that the money can be consolidated and returned to the archdiocese, for distribution to the proper ministries.
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Do you have an old caned chair that you wish had a new seat? For a $50 donation to the St. Raphael Camp Fund, Kh. Maria will re-cane that chair seat. Speak to her or Fr. Ignatius for details.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Joseph of Arimathaea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself looking for the Kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus. And Pilate wondered if He were already dead; and summoning the centurion, he asked him whether Jesus was already dead. And when he learned from the centurion that He was dead, he granted the body to Joseph. And he bought a linen shroud, and taking Him down, wrapped Him in the linen shroud, and laid Him in a tomb, which had been hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a stone against the door of the tomb. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where He was laid. And when the Sabbath was passed, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices so that they might go and anoint Him. And very early on the first day of the week they went to the tomb when the sun had risen. And they were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the door of the tomb?” And looking up, they saw that the stone was rolled back—it was very large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe; and they were amazed. And he said to them, “Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth, Who was crucified. He has risen, He is not here; see the place where they laid Him. But go, tell His Disciples and Peter that He is going before you to Galilee; there you will see Him, as He told you.” And they went out and fled from the tomb; for trembling and astonishment had come upon them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid. (Mark 15:43-!6:8)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
"Who preserved the disciple's hand unconsumed when he drew nigh unto the fiery side of the Lord? Who gave it the daring and strength to feel the bone that was flaming? Surely, it was that which was touched. For if that side had not bestowed might unto that earthen right hand, how could it have touched those wounds which caused both things above and below to quake? This grace was given to Thomas, that he might touch and cry out to Christ: Thou art my Lord and my God."
(Thomas Sunday, Ode VI, Kontakion, Tone VIII, Ikos)
This Week's Services and Events
May 7, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 8, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
May 9, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:00PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
May 10, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
May 11, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
May 12, Sunday, (Myrrhbearers Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and Fellowship Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Do You Receive Nourishment Through St. Raphael Church?
If you do, then this is Christ, the Head, feeding you through His Body, the Church. Did you know that St. Raphael Church needs between $9000-$10,000 every month to meet its financial obligations? And did you know that due to projected giving patterns, the St. Raphael Church Parish Council is expecting a significant drop in giving for the latter half of 2019? If you are not yet regularly giving to St. Raphael Church, would you consider doing so? A $50 or $100 a month pledge is not insignificant. Better yet, think of proportional giving. Some people give 10% or more of their income to the church. If you are not giving, could you give that? Or 5%? Or 8%? We have no source of income other than the voluntary gifts that come from people like you who value what is happening at our church. You can give in a variety of ways. There is a Paypal option on our website. You can set up a regular automatic withdrawal from your account. Contact our treasurer Karen Kuntz at kuntzk@me.com for more information. And also, your serving the church in various ways through volunteering your time is equally important and valued. Thank you.
Thank You
Thank you to Peter Kontopoulos, Newman Abuissa and Todd Wiblin for first trimming, and then removing the large bush in front of church, and to Maria Cetlaus for replacing the bush with various plantings. Thank you to Elizabeth Michael for fertilizing and seeding the front lawn.
Wednesday Night Fellowship
We will resume Wednesday night fellowship on May 29 at 7:30PM.
Lenten Fasting Turns to Paschal Feasting
Following Antiochian tradition, we abstain from fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays for the full 40-day Paschal season, until after the Feast of the Ascension, on June 6. Christ is risen!
May/June Calendars Are Printed
Calendars showing the services and other events for May and June are available in the narthex.
Food For Hungry People Donation Boxes
Please plan to bring your filled-up Food For Hungry People collection boxes back to church as soon as possible, so that the money can be consolidated and returned to the archdiocese, for distribution to the proper ministries.
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Do you have an old caned chair that you wish had a new seat? For a $50 donation to the St. Raphael Camp Fund, Kh. Maria will re-cane that chair seat. Speak to her or Fr. Ignatius for details.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Joseph of Arimathaea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself looking for the Kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus. And Pilate wondered if He were already dead; and summoning the centurion, he asked him whether Jesus was already dead. And when he learned from the centurion that He was dead, he granted the body to Joseph. And he bought a linen shroud, and taking Him down, wrapped Him in the linen shroud, and laid Him in a tomb, which had been hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a stone against the door of the tomb. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where He was laid. And when the Sabbath was passed, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices so that they might go and anoint Him. And very early on the first day of the week they went to the tomb when the sun had risen. And they were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the door of the tomb?” And looking up, they saw that the stone was rolled back—it was very large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe; and they were amazed. And he said to them, “Do not be amazed; you seek Jesus of Nazareth, Who was crucified. He has risen, He is not here; see the place where they laid Him. But go, tell His Disciples and Peter that He is going before you to Galilee; there you will see Him, as He told you.” And they went out and fled from the tomb; for trembling and astonishment had come upon them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid. (Mark 15:43-!6:8)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
"Who preserved the disciple's hand unconsumed when he drew nigh unto the fiery side of the Lord? Who gave it the daring and strength to feel the bone that was flaming? Surely, it was that which was touched. For if that side had not bestowed might unto that earthen right hand, how could it have touched those wounds which caused both things above and below to quake? This grace was given to Thomas, that he might touch and cry out to Christ: Thou art my Lord and my God."
(Thomas Sunday, Ode VI, Kontakion, Tone VIII, Ikos)
Sunday April 28, 2019, Great and Holy Pascha
Christ is risen! Christos anesti! Al-Maseeh Qam!
This Week's Services and Events
April 30, Bright Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ Paschal Hours, 3:00PM
May 1, Bright Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ Paschal Hours, 7:00PM, followed by Fellowship Group
May 2, Bright Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:00PM-3:00PM
+ Paschal Hours, 3:00PM
+ OCF Dinner, 7:00PM
May 3, Bright Friday
+ Paschal Hours, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
May 4, Bright Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
May 5, Sunday, (Thomas Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and Fellowship Hour
+ LYRA Concert, 2:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Our Hierarchs' Paschal Letters
Paschal letters from Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony are attached.
Congratulations
John Michalski and Jennifer Hope were received into the Church through chrismation on Holy Saturday. Their sponsors are Robert Peterson and Lori Branch. May God grant them many years! Congratulations to Madison Frei, who became a catechumen on the same day. May God grant her many years!
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please. An electronic version of the poster is attached. We need volunteers to bring food to share for the reception afterward.
Lenten Fasting Turns to Paschal Feasting
Following Antiochian tradition, we abstain from fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays for the full 40-day Paschal season, until after the Feast of the Ascension, on June 6. Christ is risen!
May/June Calendars Are Printed
Calendars showing the services and other events for May and June are available in the narthex.
Food For Hungry People Donation Boxes
Please plan to bring your filled-up Food For Hungry People collection boxes back to church as soon as possible, so that the money can be consolidated and returned to the archdiocese, for distribution to the proper ministries.
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Do you have an old caned chair that you wish had a new seat? For a $50 donation to the St. Raphael Camp Fund, Kh. Maria will re-cane that chair seat. Speak to her or Fr. Ignatius for details.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them: "Peace be with you." When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them: "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained. Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him: "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them: "Unless I see in his hands the print of the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in his side, I will not believe. Eight days later, his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them, and said: "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe. Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name. (John 20:19-31)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
But now that the Savior has raised His body, death is no longer terrible, but all those who believe in Christ tread it underfoot as nothing, and prefer to die rather than to deny their faith in Christ, knowing full well that when they die they do not perish, but live indeed, and become incorruptible through the resurrection.
- St. Athanasius the Great
This Week's Services and Events
April 30, Bright Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM- 3:00PM
+ Paschal Hours, 3:00PM
May 1, Bright Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 1:45PM-4:00PM
+ Paschal Hours, 7:00PM, followed by Fellowship Group
May 2, Bright Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:00PM-3:00PM
+ Paschal Hours, 3:00PM
+ OCF Dinner, 7:00PM
May 3, Bright Friday
+ Paschal Hours, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
May 4, Bright Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
May 5, Sunday, (Thomas Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and Fellowship Hour
+ LYRA Concert, 2:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Our Hierarchs' Paschal Letters
Paschal letters from Metropolitan Joseph and Bishop Anthony are attached.
Congratulations
John Michalski and Jennifer Hope were received into the Church through chrismation on Holy Saturday. Their sponsors are Robert Peterson and Lori Branch. May God grant them many years! Congratulations to Madison Frei, who became a catechumen on the same day. May God grant her many years!
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please. An electronic version of the poster is attached. We need volunteers to bring food to share for the reception afterward.
Lenten Fasting Turns to Paschal Feasting
Following Antiochian tradition, we abstain from fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays for the full 40-day Paschal season, until after the Feast of the Ascension, on June 6. Christ is risen!
May/June Calendars Are Printed
Calendars showing the services and other events for May and June are available in the narthex.
Food For Hungry People Donation Boxes
Please plan to bring your filled-up Food For Hungry People collection boxes back to church as soon as possible, so that the money can be consolidated and returned to the archdiocese, for distribution to the proper ministries.
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Do you have an old caned chair that you wish had a new seat? For a $50 donation to the St. Raphael Camp Fund, Kh. Maria will re-cane that chair seat. Speak to her or Fr. Ignatius for details.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them: "Peace be with you." When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them: "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained. Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him: "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them: "Unless I see in his hands the print of the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in his side, I will not believe. Eight days later, his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them, and said: "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe. Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name. (John 20:19-31)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, Connor Ward, Katie Mauger-Sonnek and Madison Frei 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
But now that the Savior has raised His body, death is no longer terrible, but all those who believe in Christ tread it underfoot as nothing, and prefer to die rather than to deny their faith in Christ, knowing full well that when they die they do not perish, but live indeed, and become incorruptible through the resurrection.
- St. Athanasius the Great
Sunday, April 21, 2019, Sunday of the Triumphal Entry of our Lord into Jerusalem (Palm Sunday)
This Week's Services and Events
April 21, Palm Sunday
+ Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
April 22, Holy Monday
+ Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
April 23, Holy Tuesday
+ Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
April 24, Holy Wednesday
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, 9:00AM
+ Service of Holy Unction (Anointing for Healing), 7:00PM
April 25, Holy Thursday
+ Vesperal Liturgy, 9:00AM
+ Rite of Footwashing, 6:00PM
+ Twelve Passion Gospels Service, 7:00PM
April 26, Holy Friday
+ Royal Hours, 9:00AM, followed by decoration of funeral bier and activities for kids
+ Great Vespers, 3:00PM
+ Lamentations Service (Funeral for our Lord), 7:00PM, followed by Psalm-reading vigil through the night
April 27, Holy Saturday
+ Vesperal Divine Liturgy, 9:00AM
+ Paschal Office (Rush Service) 11:40PM
April 28, Sunday, (Great and Holy Pascha)
+ Paschal Matins and Liturgy, 12:00PM, followed by potluck paschal feast
+ Agape Vespers, 12:30PM, followed by potluck picnic at Robert A Lee. Rec. Center (220 S. Gilbert St., Iowa City)
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Metropolitan Joseph's Palm Sunday Letter
To read His Eminence's letter, go here: http://www.antiochian.org/regulararticle/285
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
No Office Hours During Holy Week
Although Fr. Ignatius will not be keeping formal office hours during Holy Week, he will be in the church often. He is still available to talk with and especially to hear confessions. Contact him if you want to set up an appointment.
Have You Invited Anyone to Church Lately?
This is an excellent time to invite a friend or two to come and experience the services of our church. We sing at each Liturgy, "We have seen the true light! We have received the Heavenly Spirit! We have found the True Faith!" If this is true, let us share it with others! Invite someone to come to Holy Week services or Pascha.
A Note to Parents of Young Children
We want you and your children with us during the services at this holy time of year (and all the time too!). Some of the Holy Week services can be long and can test the patience of little ones and their parents. It is better to come to the first hour of a longer service, than not to come at all. Don't feel bad if you have to leave early. Don't feel bad if your children sleep through parts of the services. Let them be involved with the footwashing service on Thursday and funeral bier decorating on Holy Friday and the activities that will be planned for kids during that day. Bring them to our Pascha service at midnight. But if that is completely unmanageable for you, then at least bring them to the Agape Vespers service at 12:30PM on Pascha afternoon, which is then followed by a potluck picnic and Easter Egg hunt. Even if it seems like your young children are not paying attention, they are absorbing a lot just by being present in the church when we are praying and worshiping!
Ways to be Involved This Week-
With all of the activity in church during Holy Week and Pascha, there are plenty of opportunities to help out around church. Please check the bulletin boards for sign-up sheets that cover the decorating of the funeral bier on Holy Friday, the reading of Psalms through the night after the Holy Friday Lamentations service, bringing dyed red eggs to Pascha, bringing food to the Paschal feast and also the picnic, and the reading of the Agape Vespers Gospel in various languages.
Can You Read Out Loud in a Language Other Than English?-
Come to Agape Vespers at 12:30PM on Pascha. The highlight of this service is hearing the Gospel reading in as many languages as possible. There is a sign-up sheet for this in the church narthex. The text is John 20:19-25. We have this text available in many different languages at church.
Easter Lily Donations
The Church will be accepting donations of Easter Lily plants on Pascha weekend. You can drop off plants in the church on Holy Saturday or on Pascha.
Food For Hungry People Donation Boxes
Please plan to bring your filled-up Food For Hungry People collection boxes next weekend or soon after, so that the money can be consolidated and returned to the archdiocese, for distribution to the proper ministries.
Paschal Items in our Church Bookstore
We have red dye for paschal eggs and paschal greeting cards for sale in our church bookstore.
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please. An electronic version of the poster is attached.
May/June Calendars Are Printed
Calendars showing the services and other events for May and June are available in the narthex.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Do you have an old caned chair that you wish had a new seat? For a $50 donation to the St. Raphael Camp Fund, Kh. Maria will re-cane that chair seat. Speak to her or Fr. Ignatius for details.
Online Resources for Holy Week
The many services of Holy Week stand at the center of our liturgical life as Orthodox Christians. To learn more about this beautiful services, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/lent/holy-week
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came for testimony, to bear witness to the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness to the light. The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, yet the world knew Him not. He came to His own home, and His own people received Him not. But to all who received Him, who believed in His Name, He gave power to become children of God; who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father. (John bore witness to Him, and cried, “This was He of Whom I said, ‘He Who comes after me ranks before me, for He was before me.’”) And from His fullness have we all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (John 1:1-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski, Connor Ward and Katie Mauger-Sonnek 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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.
April 21, Palm Sunday
+ Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
April 22, Holy Monday
+ Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
April 23, Holy Tuesday
+ Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
April 24, Holy Wednesday
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, 9:00AM
+ Service of Holy Unction (Anointing for Healing), 7:00PM
April 25, Holy Thursday
+ Vesperal Liturgy, 9:00AM
+ Rite of Footwashing, 6:00PM
+ Twelve Passion Gospels Service, 7:00PM
April 26, Holy Friday
+ Royal Hours, 9:00AM, followed by decoration of funeral bier and activities for kids
+ Great Vespers, 3:00PM
+ Lamentations Service (Funeral for our Lord), 7:00PM, followed by Psalm-reading vigil through the night
April 27, Holy Saturday
+ Vesperal Divine Liturgy, 9:00AM
+ Paschal Office (Rush Service) 11:40PM
April 28, Sunday, (Great and Holy Pascha)
+ Paschal Matins and Liturgy, 12:00PM, followed by potluck paschal feast
+ Agape Vespers, 12:30PM, followed by potluck picnic at Robert A Lee. Rec. Center (220 S. Gilbert St., Iowa City)
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Metropolitan Joseph's Palm Sunday Letter
To read His Eminence's letter, go here: http://www.antiochian.org/regulararticle/285
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
We are rescheduling Bishop Anthony's visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
No Office Hours During Holy Week
Although Fr. Ignatius will not be keeping formal office hours during Holy Week, he will be in the church often. He is still available to talk with and especially to hear confessions. Contact him if you want to set up an appointment.
Have You Invited Anyone to Church Lately?
This is an excellent time to invite a friend or two to come and experience the services of our church. We sing at each Liturgy, "We have seen the true light! We have received the Heavenly Spirit! We have found the True Faith!" If this is true, let us share it with others! Invite someone to come to Holy Week services or Pascha.
A Note to Parents of Young Children
We want you and your children with us during the services at this holy time of year (and all the time too!). Some of the Holy Week services can be long and can test the patience of little ones and their parents. It is better to come to the first hour of a longer service, than not to come at all. Don't feel bad if you have to leave early. Don't feel bad if your children sleep through parts of the services. Let them be involved with the footwashing service on Thursday and funeral bier decorating on Holy Friday and the activities that will be planned for kids during that day. Bring them to our Pascha service at midnight. But if that is completely unmanageable for you, then at least bring them to the Agape Vespers service at 12:30PM on Pascha afternoon, which is then followed by a potluck picnic and Easter Egg hunt. Even if it seems like your young children are not paying attention, they are absorbing a lot just by being present in the church when we are praying and worshiping!
Ways to be Involved This Week-
With all of the activity in church during Holy Week and Pascha, there are plenty of opportunities to help out around church. Please check the bulletin boards for sign-up sheets that cover the decorating of the funeral bier on Holy Friday, the reading of Psalms through the night after the Holy Friday Lamentations service, bringing dyed red eggs to Pascha, bringing food to the Paschal feast and also the picnic, and the reading of the Agape Vespers Gospel in various languages.
Can You Read Out Loud in a Language Other Than English?-
Come to Agape Vespers at 12:30PM on Pascha. The highlight of this service is hearing the Gospel reading in as many languages as possible. There is a sign-up sheet for this in the church narthex. The text is John 20:19-25. We have this text available in many different languages at church.
Easter Lily Donations
The Church will be accepting donations of Easter Lily plants on Pascha weekend. You can drop off plants in the church on Holy Saturday or on Pascha.
Food For Hungry People Donation Boxes
Please plan to bring your filled-up Food For Hungry People collection boxes next weekend or soon after, so that the money can be consolidated and returned to the archdiocese, for distribution to the proper ministries.
Paschal Items in our Church Bookstore
We have red dye for paschal eggs and paschal greeting cards for sale in our church bookstore.
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please. An electronic version of the poster is attached.
May/June Calendars Are Printed
Calendars showing the services and other events for May and June are available in the narthex.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Do you have an old caned chair that you wish had a new seat? For a $50 donation to the St. Raphael Camp Fund, Kh. Maria will re-cane that chair seat. Speak to her or Fr. Ignatius for details.
Online Resources for Holy Week
The many services of Holy Week stand at the center of our liturgical life as Orthodox Christians. To learn more about this beautiful services, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/lent/holy-week
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came for testimony, to bear witness to the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness to the light. The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, yet the world knew Him not. He came to His own home, and His own people received Him not. But to all who received Him, who believed in His Name, He gave power to become children of God; who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father. (John bore witness to Him, and cried, “This was He of Whom I said, ‘He Who comes after me ranks before me, for He was before me.’”) And from His fullness have we all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (John 1:1-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski, Connor Ward and Katie Mauger-Sonnek 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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.
Sunday April 14, 2019, Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt (5th Sunday of Lent)
This Week's Services and Events
April 15, Monday
+ Great Compline, 7:00PM
April 16, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
April 17, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, 6:00PM, followed by Soup Supper and discussion on prayer
April 18, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
April 19, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Little Compline with Canon of St. Lazarus, 7:00PM
April 20, Saturday (Lazarus Saturday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
April 21, Sunday, (Palm Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:30AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
Bishop Anthony was not able to be with us this weekend because a winter storm kept him from travelling to Iowa. We are rescheduling his visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
Lazarus Saturday Retreat for Middle and High Schoolers
At St. George Church in Cedar Rapids, on Friday night April 19th following the Canon of the Raising of Lazarus (6PM) and on Saturday morning April 20 following Divine Liturgy through late afternoon, teens and pre-teens are invited to participate in a retreat. Fabiola Sweis from St. Mary in Palo Heights, IL will lead activities and discussions to prepare the students for Holy Week and Pascha.
A Note to Parents of Young Children
We want you and your children with us during the services at this holy time of year (and all the time too!). Some of the Holy Week services can be long and can test the patience of little ones and their parents. It is better to come to the first hour of a longer service, than not to come at all. Don't feel bad if you have to leave early. Don't feel bad if your children sleep through parts of the services. Let them be involved with the footwashing service on Thursday and funeral bier decorating on Holy Friday and the activities that will be planned for kids during that day. Bring them to our Pascha service at midnight. But if that is completely unmanageable for you, then at least bring them to the Agape Vespers service at 12:30PM on Pascha afternoon, which is then followed by a potluck picnic and Easter Egg hunt. Even if it seems like your young children are not paying attention, they are absorbing a lot just by being present in the church when we are praying and worshiping!
Holy Week is April 19-28
It is time to be thinking about and planning for Holy Week. Please consider all of the various ways you can serve the Church and your brothers and sisters in Christ and the ways you can participate in this most sacred time. With all of the activity in church during Holy Week and Pascha, there are plenty of opportunities to help out around church. Please check the bulletin boards for sign-up sheets that cover the decorating of the funeral bier on Holy Friday, the reading of Psalms through the night after the Holy Friday Lamentations service, bringing dyed red eggs to Pascha, bringing food to the Paschal feast and also the picnic, and the reading of the Agape Vespers Gospel in various languages. Here is our schedule (printed versions are available in the narthex):
Friday, April 19- Little Compline with Canon of St. Lazarus, 7:00PM
Lazarus Saturday, April 20- Matins and Liturgy, 8:45AM/10:00AM; Great Vespers, 5:00PM
Palm Sunday, April 21- Matins and Liturgy, 8:30AM/10:00AM; Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
Holy Monday, April 22- Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
Holy Tuesday, April 23- Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
Holy Wednesday, April 24- Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, 9:00AM; Holy Unction (Anointing for Healing) Service, 7:00PM
Holy Thursday, April 25- Vesperal Liturgy, 9:00AM; Rite of Foot-Washing, 6:00PM; Twelve Passion Gospels Service, 7:00PM
Holy Friday, April 26- Royal Hours, 9:00AM, followed by decorating of funeral bier; Great Vespers (Taking the Lord Down from the Cross), 3:00PM; Lamentations Service, 7:00PM
Holy Saturday, April 27- Vesperal Liturgy with chrismations, 9:00AM; Midnight Office, 11:40PM
Great and Holy Pascha, April 28, Paschal Matins and Liturgy, 12:00AM (Midnight) followed by Paschal Potluck feast; Agape Vespers, 12:30PM, followed by potluck gathering at Robert A Lee Rec. Center (220 S. Gilbert St.)
Easter Lily Donations
The Church will be accepting donations of Easter Lily plants on Pascha weekend. You can drop off plants in the church on Holy Saturday or on Pascha.
Paschal Items in Our Church Bookstore
We have red dye for paschal eggs and paschal greeting cards for sale in our church bookstore.
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please. An electronic version of the poster is attached.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Do you have an old caned chair that you wish had a new seat? For a $50 donation to the St. Raphael Camp Fund, Kh. Maria will re-cane that chair seat. Speak to her or Fr. Ignatius for details.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
Six days before Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was to betray him), said "Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?" This he said, not that he cared for the poor but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box he used to take what was put into it. Jesus said, "Let her alone, let her keep it for the day of my burial. The poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me." When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came, not only on account of Jesus but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus also to death, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus. The next day a great crowd who had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" And Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it; as it is written, "Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!" His disciples did not understand this at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that this had been written of him and had been done to him. The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead bore witness. The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign. (John 12:1-18)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski, Connor Ward and Katie Mauger-Sonnek 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
Live in gratitude, and you will never be disappointed. See that your afflictions are not there to punish you, but to purify you and cleanse you of the delusions of this world. You all are being prepared each day for great things. Be wise, and prepare for the future, but do not be worried about it. Be prudent, but not obsessed. The man who constantly worries achieves nothing but stress and anxiety. Instead, pray and draw close to God. Believe that He will help you, and suddenly, you will see how He has already.
+ Metropolitan JOSEPH
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
April 15, Monday
+ Great Compline, 7:00PM
April 16, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
April 17, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, 6:00PM, followed by Soup Supper and discussion on prayer
April 18, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
April 19, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Little Compline with Canon of St. Lazarus, 7:00PM
April 20, Saturday (Lazarus Saturday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
April 21, Sunday, (Palm Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:30AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
Bishop's Visit Rescheduled
Bishop Anthony was not able to be with us this weekend because a winter storm kept him from travelling to Iowa. We are rescheduling his visit for the weekend of June 29-30. Please keep that weekend open and plan to be with our bishop.
Lazarus Saturday Retreat for Middle and High Schoolers
At St. George Church in Cedar Rapids, on Friday night April 19th following the Canon of the Raising of Lazarus (6PM) and on Saturday morning April 20 following Divine Liturgy through late afternoon, teens and pre-teens are invited to participate in a retreat. Fabiola Sweis from St. Mary in Palo Heights, IL will lead activities and discussions to prepare the students for Holy Week and Pascha.
A Note to Parents of Young Children
We want you and your children with us during the services at this holy time of year (and all the time too!). Some of the Holy Week services can be long and can test the patience of little ones and their parents. It is better to come to the first hour of a longer service, than not to come at all. Don't feel bad if you have to leave early. Don't feel bad if your children sleep through parts of the services. Let them be involved with the footwashing service on Thursday and funeral bier decorating on Holy Friday and the activities that will be planned for kids during that day. Bring them to our Pascha service at midnight. But if that is completely unmanageable for you, then at least bring them to the Agape Vespers service at 12:30PM on Pascha afternoon, which is then followed by a potluck picnic and Easter Egg hunt. Even if it seems like your young children are not paying attention, they are absorbing a lot just by being present in the church when we are praying and worshiping!
Holy Week is April 19-28
It is time to be thinking about and planning for Holy Week. Please consider all of the various ways you can serve the Church and your brothers and sisters in Christ and the ways you can participate in this most sacred time. With all of the activity in church during Holy Week and Pascha, there are plenty of opportunities to help out around church. Please check the bulletin boards for sign-up sheets that cover the decorating of the funeral bier on Holy Friday, the reading of Psalms through the night after the Holy Friday Lamentations service, bringing dyed red eggs to Pascha, bringing food to the Paschal feast and also the picnic, and the reading of the Agape Vespers Gospel in various languages. Here is our schedule (printed versions are available in the narthex):
Friday, April 19- Little Compline with Canon of St. Lazarus, 7:00PM
Lazarus Saturday, April 20- Matins and Liturgy, 8:45AM/10:00AM; Great Vespers, 5:00PM
Palm Sunday, April 21- Matins and Liturgy, 8:30AM/10:00AM; Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
Holy Monday, April 22- Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
Holy Tuesday, April 23- Bridegroom Matins, 7:00PM
Holy Wednesday, April 24- Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, 9:00AM; Holy Unction (Anointing for Healing) Service, 7:00PM
Holy Thursday, April 25- Vesperal Liturgy, 9:00AM; Rite of Foot-Washing, 6:00PM; Twelve Passion Gospels Service, 7:00PM
Holy Friday, April 26- Royal Hours, 9:00AM, followed by decorating of funeral bier; Great Vespers (Taking the Lord Down from the Cross), 3:00PM; Lamentations Service, 7:00PM
Holy Saturday, April 27- Vesperal Liturgy with chrismations, 9:00AM; Midnight Office, 11:40PM
Great and Holy Pascha, April 28, Paschal Matins and Liturgy, 12:00AM (Midnight) followed by Paschal Potluck feast; Agape Vespers, 12:30PM, followed by potluck gathering at Robert A Lee Rec. Center (220 S. Gilbert St.)
Easter Lily Donations
The Church will be accepting donations of Easter Lily plants on Pascha weekend. You can drop off plants in the church on Holy Saturday or on Pascha.
Paschal Items in Our Church Bookstore
We have red dye for paschal eggs and paschal greeting cards for sale in our church bookstore.
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please. An electronic version of the poster is attached.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Do you have an old caned chair that you wish had a new seat? For a $50 donation to the St. Raphael Camp Fund, Kh. Maria will re-cane that chair seat. Speak to her or Fr. Ignatius for details.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
Six days before Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was to betray him), said "Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?" This he said, not that he cared for the poor but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box he used to take what was put into it. Jesus said, "Let her alone, let her keep it for the day of my burial. The poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me." When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came, not only on account of Jesus but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus also to death, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus. The next day a great crowd who had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" And Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it; as it is written, "Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!" His disciples did not understand this at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that this had been written of him and had been done to him. The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead bore witness. The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign. (John 12:1-18)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski, Connor Ward and Katie Mauger-Sonnek 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
Live in gratitude, and you will never be disappointed. See that your afflictions are not there to punish you, but to purify you and cleanse you of the delusions of this world. You all are being prepared each day for great things. Be wise, and prepare for the future, but do not be worried about it. Be prudent, but not obsessed. The man who constantly worries achieves nothing but stress and anxiety. Instead, pray and draw close to God. Believe that He will help you, and suddenly, you will see how He has already.
+ Metropolitan JOSEPH
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday April 7, 2019: Sunday of St. John Climacus (4th Sunday of Lent)
This Week's Services and Events
April 8, Monday
+ Great Compline, 7:00PM
April 9, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
April 10, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Little Compline with Canon of St. Andrew of Crete and Life of St. Mary of Egypt, 6:00PM
April 11, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, 6:00PM, followed by Lenten Soup Supper
April 12, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Little Compline with Akathist Hymn, 7:00PM
April 13, Saturday
+ Open Roundtable Discussion with Bishop Anthony, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers with Bishop Anthony, 5:00PM, followed by potluck dinner
April 14, Sunday, Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt (5th Sunday of Lent)
+ Matins, 8:30AM
+ Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Katie Mauger-Sonnek was enrolled in the catechumenate today during Liturgy. Please keep her and all of our catechumens in your prayers as they prepare to be baptized and/or chrismated.
Thank You
Thank you to all who helped clean up our building and grounds to make it look beautiful for the bishop's visit and for Holy Week and Pascha: Maria (for the front yard landscaping and flower planting), Todd, Karen, Bill, Amy and Brian.
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
April 10, the Fifth Wednesday of Lent
We pray a very unique service on this evening, starting at 6:00PM. On this day only, we hear the entire Canon of St. Andrew, that marvelous penitential poem filled with Scriptural references, and we hear the amazing life of St. Mary of Egypt. This is like a graduate level course in repentance. It is powerful! Come and pray, even if you can't stay for the whole service.
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. Please bring food to share on Saturday evening. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. You don't want to miss this weekend!
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Do you have an old caned chair that you wish had a new seat? For a $50 donation to the St. Raphael Camp Fund, Kh. Maria will re-cane that chair seat. Speak to her or Fr. Ignatius for details.
Lazarus Saturday Retreat for Middle and High Schoolers
At St. George Church in Cedar Rapids, on Friday night April 19th following the Canon of the Raising of Lazarus (6PM) and on Saturday morning April 20 following Divine Liturgy through late afternoon, teens and pre-teens are invited to participate in a retreat. Fabiola Sweis from St. Mary in Palo Heights, IL will lead activities and discussions to prepare the students for Holy Week and Pascha.
Holy Week is April 19-28
It is not too early to be thinking about and planning for Holy Week. A schedule of services will be posted next week. Please consider all of the various ways you can serve the Church and your brothers and sisters in Christ and the ways you can participate in this most sacred time. With all of the activity in church during Holy Week and Pascha, there are plenty of opportunities to help out around church. Please check the bulletin boards for sign-up sheets that cover the decorating of the funeral bier on Holy Friday, the reading of Psalms through the night after the Holy Friday Lamentations service, bringing dyed red eggs to Pascha, bringing food to the Paschal feast and also the picnic, and the reading of the Agape Vespers Gospel in various languages.
Paschal Items in our Church Bookstore
We have red dye for paschal eggs and paschal greeting cards for sale in our church bookstore.
A Reminder About Confession
Fr. Ignatius is available to hear confessions after vespers on Saturday evenings, briefly at the end of matins on Sunday mornings, and by appointment. If it has been awhile since your last confession, consider the spiritual benefit of participating in Holy Week and Pascha having recently received God's grace and forgiveness through this sacrament, and schedule a time with Fr. Ignatius or another priest soon.
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please. An electronic version of the poster is attached.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus took His twelve Disciples, and began to tell them what was to happen to Him, saying, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem. And the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn Him to death, and deliver Him to the Gentiles. And they will mock Him, and scourge Him, and spit upon Him, and kill Him; and after three days He will rise.” And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to Him, and said to Him, “Teacher, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire” And Jesus said to them, “What do you want Me to do for you?” And they said to Him, “Grant us to sit, one at Thy right hand and one at Thy left, in Thy glory.” But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” And they said to Him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink; and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized. But to sit at My right hand or at My left is not Mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. And Jesus called them to Him and said to them, “You know that those who are supposed to rule over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be servant of all. For the Son of man also came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:32-45)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski, Connor Ward and Katie Mauger-Sonnek 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
Self-pity is the root of all our crawling into sin. He who does not indulge himself is always steadfast in good.
- St. Theophan the Recluse
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
April 8, Monday
+ Great Compline, 7:00PM
April 9, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
April 10, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Little Compline with Canon of St. Andrew of Crete and Life of St. Mary of Egypt, 6:00PM
April 11, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, 6:00PM, followed by Lenten Soup Supper
April 12, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Little Compline with Akathist Hymn, 7:00PM
April 13, Saturday
+ Open Roundtable Discussion with Bishop Anthony, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers with Bishop Anthony, 5:00PM, followed by potluck dinner
April 14, Sunday, Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt (5th Sunday of Lent)
+ Matins, 8:30AM
+ Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Katie Mauger-Sonnek was enrolled in the catechumenate today during Liturgy. Please keep her and all of our catechumens in your prayers as they prepare to be baptized and/or chrismated.
Thank You
Thank you to all who helped clean up our building and grounds to make it look beautiful for the bishop's visit and for Holy Week and Pascha: Maria (for the front yard landscaping and flower planting), Todd, Karen, Bill, Amy and Brian.
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
April 10, the Fifth Wednesday of Lent
We pray a very unique service on this evening, starting at 6:00PM. On this day only, we hear the entire Canon of St. Andrew, that marvelous penitential poem filled with Scriptural references, and we hear the amazing life of St. Mary of Egypt. This is like a graduate level course in repentance. It is powerful! Come and pray, even if you can't stay for the whole service.
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. Please bring food to share on Saturday evening. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. You don't want to miss this weekend!
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Do you have an old caned chair that you wish had a new seat? For a $50 donation to the St. Raphael Camp Fund, Kh. Maria will re-cane that chair seat. Speak to her or Fr. Ignatius for details.
Lazarus Saturday Retreat for Middle and High Schoolers
At St. George Church in Cedar Rapids, on Friday night April 19th following the Canon of the Raising of Lazarus (6PM) and on Saturday morning April 20 following Divine Liturgy through late afternoon, teens and pre-teens are invited to participate in a retreat. Fabiola Sweis from St. Mary in Palo Heights, IL will lead activities and discussions to prepare the students for Holy Week and Pascha.
Holy Week is April 19-28
It is not too early to be thinking about and planning for Holy Week. A schedule of services will be posted next week. Please consider all of the various ways you can serve the Church and your brothers and sisters in Christ and the ways you can participate in this most sacred time. With all of the activity in church during Holy Week and Pascha, there are plenty of opportunities to help out around church. Please check the bulletin boards for sign-up sheets that cover the decorating of the funeral bier on Holy Friday, the reading of Psalms through the night after the Holy Friday Lamentations service, bringing dyed red eggs to Pascha, bringing food to the Paschal feast and also the picnic, and the reading of the Agape Vespers Gospel in various languages.
Paschal Items in our Church Bookstore
We have red dye for paschal eggs and paschal greeting cards for sale in our church bookstore.
A Reminder About Confession
Fr. Ignatius is available to hear confessions after vespers on Saturday evenings, briefly at the end of matins on Sunday mornings, and by appointment. If it has been awhile since your last confession, consider the spiritual benefit of participating in Holy Week and Pascha having recently received God's grace and forgiveness through this sacrament, and schedule a time with Fr. Ignatius or another priest soon.
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please. An electronic version of the poster is attached.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus took His twelve Disciples, and began to tell them what was to happen to Him, saying, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem. And the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn Him to death, and deliver Him to the Gentiles. And they will mock Him, and scourge Him, and spit upon Him, and kill Him; and after three days He will rise.” And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to Him, and said to Him, “Teacher, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire” And Jesus said to them, “What do you want Me to do for you?” And they said to Him, “Grant us to sit, one at Thy right hand and one at Thy left, in Thy glory.” But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” And they said to Him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink; and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized. But to sit at My right hand or at My left is not Mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. And Jesus called them to Him and said to them, “You know that those who are supposed to rule over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be servant of all. For the Son of man also came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:32-45)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski, Connor Ward and Katie Mauger-Sonnek 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
Self-pity is the root of all our crawling into sin. He who does not indulge himself is always steadfast in good.
- St. Theophan the Recluse
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday March 31, 2019- Sunday of Holy Cross (3rd Sunday of Lent)
This Week's Services and Events
April 1, Monday
+ Great Compline, 7:00PM
April 2, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
April 3, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, followed by Lenten Soup Supper and Discussion on Prayer, 6:00PM
April 4, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
April 5, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Little Compline with Akathist Hymn, 7:00PM
April 6, Saturday
+ Clean-up Day, 1:00PM-4:30PM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
April 7, Sunday, Sunday of St. John Climacus (4th Sunday of Lent)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Pan-Orthodox Vespers followed by meal (St. George Church, Cedar Rapids) 5:30PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Lula Marie Gvajaladze, her parents Rezo and Alli and her sponsors Lizzy and Mathea, as Lula was illumined through the mystery of Holy Baptism yesterday. Congratulations to Isaak Yahya Athanasius Leonard, Evangeline Mary Varvara Leonard and Sofia Martha Vasiliki Leonard, their mother Rachel and father Ilias, and their sponsors Derick, Karen and Alli, as Isaak, Eva and Sofia were illumined through the mystery of Holy Baptism this morning. May God grant them many years!
Thank You
Thank you to Christian Morey and the donors who made it possible, for the handcrafted custom bishop's throne which will be blessed at the end of liturgy next Sunday and be ready for His Grace's visit on April 13-14. Thank you to Maria Lucia Cetlaus for carpet cleaning, vacuuming, dusting and other deep cleaning in the church this week, and for the many beautiful floral arrangements which are now adorning the church.
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
"Love, Death and the Resurrection"- A Recital by Paul Barnes
Love, Death and Resurrection- In the Musical Vision of Philip Glass, Victoria Bond, Franz Lizst and Orthodox Chant is a recital by pianist and chanter Paul Barnes on April 4 at 6:30 in the Voxman Music Building Recital Hall at the University of Iowa.
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day
On Saturday April 6 from 1:00PM-4:30PM we will be cleaning up our church building and grounds, getting it ready for Bishop Anthony's visit the following weekend, and Holy Week and Pascha. Please come and help!
April 10, the Fifth Wednesday of Lent
We pray a very unique service on this evening, starting at 6:00PM. On this day only, we hear the entire Canon of St. Andrew, that marvelous penitential poem filled with Scriptural references, and we hear the amazing life of St. Mary of Egypt. This is like a graduate level course in repentance. It is powerful! Come and pray, even if you can't stay for the whole service.
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. You don't want to miss this weekend!
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Look for fundraising efforts soon, such as a table of items for sale or auction. Help our campers get to camp!
Holy Week is April 19-28
It is not too early to be thinking about and planning for Holy Week. A schedule of services will be posted next week. Please consider all of the various ways you can serve the Church and your brothers and sisters in Christ and the ways you can participate in this most sacred time. With all of the activity in church during Holy Week and Pascha, there are plenty of opportunities to help out around church. Please check the bulletin boards for sign-up sheets that cover the decorating of the funeral bier on Holy Friday, the reading of Psalms through the night after the Holy Friday Lamentations service, bringing dyed red eggs to Pascha, bringing food to the Paschal feast and also the picnic, and the reading of the Agape Vespers Gospel in various languages.
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Lenten Pan-Orthodox Vespers
One of the joys of the Lenten season involves making the effort to pray and worship with the faithful from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox parishes. As we have done in the past, we are invited to participate in pan-Orthodox vespers on Sunday evenings during Lent. A fellowship meal will be offered by each host parish. The remaining schedule is as follows.
Sunday, April 7, 5:30PM, St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
Lenten Wednesday Nights
During Lent, we pray the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten Eucharistic service, starting at 6:00PM. Following the service, all are invited to stay for a simple Lenten Soup Supper and a short discussion on some of the prayers mentioned in Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God."
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, a man came to Jesus, kneeling down and saying unto him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a dumb spirit. And wherever it seizes him, it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid; and I asked Thy Disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.” And Jesus answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to Me.” And they brought the boy to Him; and when the spirit saw Jesus, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. And Jesus asked his father, “How long has he had this?” And he said, “From childhood. And it has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if Thou canst do anything, have pity on us and help us.” And Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You dumb and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again.” And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse; so that most of them said, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. And when Jesus had entered the house, His Disciples asked Him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” And Jesus said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting.” They went on from there and passed through Galilee. And Jesus would not have anyone know it; for He was teaching His Disciples, saying to them, “The Son of man will be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill Him; and after He is killed, He will rise on the third day.” (Mark 9:17-31)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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 purpose of God's Providence is to unite, by means of right faith and spiritual love, people who have been separated by evil. To this end the Savior also suffered for us, "in order to gather together the children of God who were scattered."
+St Maximus the Confessor
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
April 1, Monday
+ Great Compline, 7:00PM
April 2, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
April 3, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, followed by Lenten Soup Supper and Discussion on Prayer, 6:00PM
April 4, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
April 5, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Little Compline with Akathist Hymn, 7:00PM
April 6, Saturday
+ Clean-up Day, 1:00PM-4:30PM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
April 7, Sunday, Sunday of St. John Climacus (4th Sunday of Lent)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Pan-Orthodox Vespers followed by meal (St. George Church, Cedar Rapids) 5:30PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Lula Marie Gvajaladze, her parents Rezo and Alli and her sponsors Lizzy and Mathea, as Lula was illumined through the mystery of Holy Baptism yesterday. Congratulations to Isaak Yahya Athanasius Leonard, Evangeline Mary Varvara Leonard and Sofia Martha Vasiliki Leonard, their mother Rachel and father Ilias, and their sponsors Derick, Karen and Alli, as Isaak, Eva and Sofia were illumined through the mystery of Holy Baptism this morning. May God grant them many years!
Thank You
Thank you to Christian Morey and the donors who made it possible, for the handcrafted custom bishop's throne which will be blessed at the end of liturgy next Sunday and be ready for His Grace's visit on April 13-14. Thank you to Maria Lucia Cetlaus for carpet cleaning, vacuuming, dusting and other deep cleaning in the church this week, and for the many beautiful floral arrangements which are now adorning the church.
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
"Love, Death and the Resurrection"- A Recital by Paul Barnes
Love, Death and Resurrection- In the Musical Vision of Philip Glass, Victoria Bond, Franz Lizst and Orthodox Chant is a recital by pianist and chanter Paul Barnes on April 4 at 6:30 in the Voxman Music Building Recital Hall at the University of Iowa.
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day
On Saturday April 6 from 1:00PM-4:30PM we will be cleaning up our church building and grounds, getting it ready for Bishop Anthony's visit the following weekend, and Holy Week and Pascha. Please come and help!
April 10, the Fifth Wednesday of Lent
We pray a very unique service on this evening, starting at 6:00PM. On this day only, we hear the entire Canon of St. Andrew, that marvelous penitential poem filled with Scriptural references, and we hear the amazing life of St. Mary of Egypt. This is like a graduate level course in repentance. It is powerful! Come and pray, even if you can't stay for the whole service.
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. You don't want to miss this weekend!
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. Look for fundraising efforts soon, such as a table of items for sale or auction. Help our campers get to camp!
Holy Week is April 19-28
It is not too early to be thinking about and planning for Holy Week. A schedule of services will be posted next week. Please consider all of the various ways you can serve the Church and your brothers and sisters in Christ and the ways you can participate in this most sacred time. With all of the activity in church during Holy Week and Pascha, there are plenty of opportunities to help out around church. Please check the bulletin boards for sign-up sheets that cover the decorating of the funeral bier on Holy Friday, the reading of Psalms through the night after the Holy Friday Lamentations service, bringing dyed red eggs to Pascha, bringing food to the Paschal feast and also the picnic, and the reading of the Agape Vespers Gospel in various languages.
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Lenten Pan-Orthodox Vespers
One of the joys of the Lenten season involves making the effort to pray and worship with the faithful from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox parishes. As we have done in the past, we are invited to participate in pan-Orthodox vespers on Sunday evenings during Lent. A fellowship meal will be offered by each host parish. The remaining schedule is as follows.
Sunday, April 7, 5:30PM, St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
Lenten Wednesday Nights
During Lent, we pray the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten Eucharistic service, starting at 6:00PM. Following the service, all are invited to stay for a simple Lenten Soup Supper and a short discussion on some of the prayers mentioned in Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God."
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, a man came to Jesus, kneeling down and saying unto him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a dumb spirit. And wherever it seizes him, it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid; and I asked Thy Disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.” And Jesus answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to Me.” And they brought the boy to Him; and when the spirit saw Jesus, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. And Jesus asked his father, “How long has he had this?” And he said, “From childhood. And it has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if Thou canst do anything, have pity on us and help us.” And Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said with tears, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You dumb and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again.” And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse; so that most of them said, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. And when Jesus had entered the house, His Disciples asked Him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” And Jesus said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting.” They went on from there and passed through Galilee. And Jesus would not have anyone know it; for He was teaching His Disciples, saying to them, “The Son of man will be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill Him; and after He is killed, He will rise on the third day.” (Mark 9:17-31)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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 purpose of God's Providence is to unite, by means of right faith and spiritual love, people who have been separated by evil. To this end the Savior also suffered for us, "in order to gather together the children of God who were scattered."
+St Maximus the Confessor
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday March 24, 2019, Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas (2nd Sunday of Lent)
This Week's Services and Events
March 25, Monday
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Feast of the Annunciation, 6:00PM
March 26, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
March 27, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, followed by Lenten Soup Supper and Discussion on Prayer, 6:00PM
March 28, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF meeting, 7:00PM
March 29, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Little Compline with Akathist Hymn, 7:00PM
March 30, Saturday
+ Holy Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze, 10:30AM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
March 31, Sunday, Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas (2nd Sunday of Lent)
+ Holy Baptisms of Isaak, Eva and Sofia Lentz, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Pan-Orthodox Vespers followed by meal (St. Raphael Church) 5:30PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Liturgy for the Feast of the Annunciation
We will commemorate the Feast of the Annunciation of our Lord with a Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on Monday, March 25.
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. The coffee hour following liturgy on March 31 will be provided by the campers and their families. They will be asking for donations to the camp scholarship fund. Look for other fundraising efforts soon, such as a table of items for sale or auction. Help our campers get to camp!
Free Screening of "Unplanned" Movie-
This Thursday, March 28, from 6:15PM-9:00PM, Johnson County Right to Life is hosting a free screening at Sycamore Theaters of the new movie Unplanned, based on the true story of Abby Johnson, who used to be the manager of a Planned Parenthood clinic which performed abortions, and who now is against abortion and working in many ways to help make abortion unnecessary and unthinkable. If you want up to two free tickets to go, let Fr. Ignatius know and he will put you in contact with the right person to help you. Please note: this movie is rated R. There is no profanity, nudity, bad language, or sex in the movie. It has been rated R because of the violence and shocking nature of the abortion scenes in the movie.
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula's baptism is Saturday, March 30 at 10:30AM. All are invited. Please RSVP to Alli Rockwell if you plan to attend.
Baptisms of Isaak, Eva and Sofia Lentz
We are having a triple baptism for Isaak, Eva and Sofia at 8:45AM on Sunday, March 31, in place of matins. All are invited.
Hosting Pan-Orthodox Vespers
We are hosting visiting clergy and laypeople from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox Churches on Sunday evening, March 31 for vespers at 5:30PM. We will be providing a Lenten potluck meal for all who attend. Please sign-up on the sheet in the narthex to bring some food to share.
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please.
Lenten Wednesday Evening Soup Supper Sign-up
On March 13, 20, 27 and April 3, 11 (a Thursday that week), 17 at 6:00PM, we are praying the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten service with Eucharist. Afterward, we are staying for a simple Lenten Supper brought by a parishioner. Usually, this is a Lent-friendly soup, with possibly some bread and a salad or some fruit. A sign-up sheet is now posted in order to organize volunteers to bring food. Please sign up! Perhaps two families would like to share the responsibilities? We are hoping that because our book group will continue meeting on Wednesday evenings, that we will have slightly larger groups to feed than in years past.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to: ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Intro to Orthodoxy Class
An Introduction to Orthodoxy class series has begun, meeting weekly on Saturdays at 3:00PM. All are welcome. Class subjects to still be covered are:
Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Lenten Pan-Orthodox Vespers
One of the joys of the Lenten season involves making the effort to pray and worship with the faithful from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox parishes. As we have done in the past, we are invited to participate in pan-Orthodox vespers on Sunday evenings during Lent. A fellowship meal will be offered by each host parish. The schedule is as follows.
* Sunday, March 31, 5:30PM- St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Church (722 E. College St., Iowa City) Please sign-up to bring food to share with our guests!
* Sunday, April 7, 5:30PM- St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
Lenten Wednesday Nights
During Lent, we pray the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten Eucharistic service, starting at 6:00PM. Following the service, all are invited to stay for a simple Lenten Soup Supper and a short discussion on some of the prayers mentioned in Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God."
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
"Love, Death and the Resurrection"- A Recital by Paul Barnes
Love, Death and Resurrection- In the Musical Vision of Philip Glass, Victoria Bond, Franz Lizst and Orthodox Chant is a recital by pianist and chanter Paul Barnes on April 4 at 6:30 in the Voxman Music Building Recital Hall at the University of Iowa.
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day
On Saturday April 6 from 1:00PM-4:30PM we will be cleaning up our church building and grounds, getting it ready for Bishop Anthony's visit the following weekend, and Holy Week and Pascha. Please come and help!
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning.
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Shelter House Book Sale
The annual Shelter House Book Sale will be held on March 30, 10:30AM – 4:00PM and March 31, 12:00PM – 4:00PM at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, Bldg. C. There will be thousands of gently used books plus music, movies, art, and vintage tees for sale. All proceeds will benefit Shelter House.
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “If any man would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake and the Gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” And Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Kingdom of God come with power.” (Mark 8:34-9:1)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
"Today Gabriel announceth the good tidings unto her that is full of grace. Rejoice, O unwedded Maiden who hast not known wedlock. Be not dismayed at my strange form, neither be afraid: I am an Archangel. Once the serpent beguiled Eve, but now I announce to thee the good tidings of joy; thou shalt remain inviolate, and shalt give birth unto the Lord, O immaculate Virgin."
Doxastikon of the Pre-feast of the Annunciation
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
March 25, Monday
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Feast of the Annunciation, 6:00PM
March 26, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
March 27, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, followed by Lenten Soup Supper and Discussion on Prayer, 6:00PM
March 28, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF meeting, 7:00PM
March 29, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Little Compline with Akathist Hymn, 7:00PM
March 30, Saturday
+ Holy Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze, 10:30AM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
March 31, Sunday, Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas (2nd Sunday of Lent)
+ Holy Baptisms of Isaak, Eva and Sofia Lentz, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Pan-Orthodox Vespers followed by meal (St. Raphael Church) 5:30PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Liturgy for the Feast of the Annunciation
We will commemorate the Feast of the Annunciation of our Lord with a Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on Monday, March 25.
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. The coffee hour following liturgy on March 31 will be provided by the campers and their families. They will be asking for donations to the camp scholarship fund. Look for other fundraising efforts soon, such as a table of items for sale or auction. Help our campers get to camp!
Free Screening of "Unplanned" Movie-
This Thursday, March 28, from 6:15PM-9:00PM, Johnson County Right to Life is hosting a free screening at Sycamore Theaters of the new movie Unplanned, based on the true story of Abby Johnson, who used to be the manager of a Planned Parenthood clinic which performed abortions, and who now is against abortion and working in many ways to help make abortion unnecessary and unthinkable. If you want up to two free tickets to go, let Fr. Ignatius know and he will put you in contact with the right person to help you. Please note: this movie is rated R. There is no profanity, nudity, bad language, or sex in the movie. It has been rated R because of the violence and shocking nature of the abortion scenes in the movie.
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula's baptism is Saturday, March 30 at 10:30AM. All are invited. Please RSVP to Alli Rockwell if you plan to attend.
Baptisms of Isaak, Eva and Sofia Lentz
We are having a triple baptism for Isaak, Eva and Sofia at 8:45AM on Sunday, March 31, in place of matins. All are invited.
Hosting Pan-Orthodox Vespers
We are hosting visiting clergy and laypeople from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox Churches on Sunday evening, March 31 for vespers at 5:30PM. We will be providing a Lenten potluck meal for all who attend. Please sign-up on the sheet in the narthex to bring some food to share.
LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert, Spread the Word!
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. We have printed posters which need to be placed on bulletin boards around town. Can you help? Take a few from the narthex and post them around town please.
Lenten Wednesday Evening Soup Supper Sign-up
On March 13, 20, 27 and April 3, 11 (a Thursday that week), 17 at 6:00PM, we are praying the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten service with Eucharist. Afterward, we are staying for a simple Lenten Supper brought by a parishioner. Usually, this is a Lent-friendly soup, with possibly some bread and a salad or some fruit. A sign-up sheet is now posted in order to organize volunteers to bring food. Please sign up! Perhaps two families would like to share the responsibilities? We are hoping that because our book group will continue meeting on Wednesday evenings, that we will have slightly larger groups to feed than in years past.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to: ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Intro to Orthodoxy Class
An Introduction to Orthodoxy class series has begun, meeting weekly on Saturdays at 3:00PM. All are welcome. Class subjects to still be covered are:
Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Lenten Pan-Orthodox Vespers
One of the joys of the Lenten season involves making the effort to pray and worship with the faithful from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox parishes. As we have done in the past, we are invited to participate in pan-Orthodox vespers on Sunday evenings during Lent. A fellowship meal will be offered by each host parish. The schedule is as follows.
* Sunday, March 31, 5:30PM- St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Church (722 E. College St., Iowa City) Please sign-up to bring food to share with our guests!
* Sunday, April 7, 5:30PM- St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
Lenten Wednesday Nights
During Lent, we pray the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten Eucharistic service, starting at 6:00PM. Following the service, all are invited to stay for a simple Lenten Soup Supper and a short discussion on some of the prayers mentioned in Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God."
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
"Love, Death and the Resurrection"- A Recital by Paul Barnes
Love, Death and Resurrection- In the Musical Vision of Philip Glass, Victoria Bond, Franz Lizst and Orthodox Chant is a recital by pianist and chanter Paul Barnes on April 4 at 6:30 in the Voxman Music Building Recital Hall at the University of Iowa.
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day
On Saturday April 6 from 1:00PM-4:30PM we will be cleaning up our church building and grounds, getting it ready for Bishop Anthony's visit the following weekend, and Holy Week and Pascha. Please come and help!
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning.
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Shelter House Book Sale
The annual Shelter House Book Sale will be held on March 30, 10:30AM – 4:00PM and March 31, 12:00PM – 4:00PM at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, Bldg. C. There will be thousands of gently used books plus music, movies, art, and vintage tees for sale. All proceeds will benefit Shelter House.
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “If any man would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake and the Gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” And Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Kingdom of God come with power.” (Mark 8:34-9:1)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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
"Today Gabriel announceth the good tidings unto her that is full of grace. Rejoice, O unwedded Maiden who hast not known wedlock. Be not dismayed at my strange form, neither be afraid: I am an Archangel. Once the serpent beguiled Eve, but now I announce to thee the good tidings of joy; thou shalt remain inviolate, and shalt give birth unto the Lord, O immaculate Virgin."
Doxastikon of the Pre-feast of the Annunciation
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday March 17, 2019, Sunday of the Triumph of Orthodoxy (1st Sunday of Lent)
This Week's Services and Events
March 18, Monday
+ Great Compline, 7:00PM
March 19, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
March 20, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, followed by Lenten Soup Supper and Discussion on Prayer, 6:00PM
March 22, Friday
+ Little Compline with Akathist Hymn, 7:00PM
March 23, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
March 24, Sunday, Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas (2nd Sunday of Lent)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Pan-Orthodox Vespers followed by meal (St. Demetrios Church, Waterloo) 5:30PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
No Office Hours or 3rd/9th Hour Prayers This Thursday and Friday
Fr. Ignatius will be briefly out of town this Thursday and Friday, therefore, he is not having office hours or the Hour Prayers on those two days.
Liturgy for the Feast of the Annunciation
We will commemorate the Feast of the Annunciation of our Lord with a Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on Monday, March 25.
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. The coffee hour following liturgy on March 31 will be provided by the campers and their families. They will be asking for donations to the camp scholarship fund. Look for other fundraising efforts soon, such as a table of items for sale or auction. Help our campers get to camp!
Hosting Pan-Orthodox Vespers
We are hosting visiting clergy and laypeople from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox Churches on Sunday evening, March 31 for vespers at 5:30PM. We will be providing a Lenten potluck meal for all who attend. Please sign-up on the sheet in the narthex to bring some food to share.
Lenten Wednesday Evening Soup Supper Sign-up
On March 13, 20, 27 and April 3, 11 (a Thursday that week), 17 at 6:00PM, we are praying the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten service with Eucharist. Afterward, we are staying for a simple Lenten Supper brought by a parishioner. Usually, this is a Lent-friendly soup, with possibly some bread and a salad or some fruit. A sign-up sheet is now posted in order to organize volunteers to bring food. Please sign up! Perhaps two families would like to share the responsibilities? We are hoping that because our book group will continue meeting on Wednesday evenings, that we will have slightly larger groups to feed than in years past.
Food For Hungry People Collection Boxes
Each year during Lent, we participate in an archdiocese-wide effort to collect funds for the Food For Hungry People Project, which helps ministries that are engaged with alleviating hunger. Collection boxes are available for pick-up in the church narthex. Take one home and fill it up with loose change during Lent and bring it back during Holy Week or soon after Pascha.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to: ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula's baptism is Saturday, March 30 at 10:30AM. All are invited. Please RSVP to Alli Rockwell if you plan to attend.
Baptisms of Isaak, Eva and Sofia Lentz
We are having a triple baptism for Isaak, Eva and Sofia at 8:45AM on Sunday, March 31, in place of matins. All are invited.
Intro to Orthodoxy Class
An Introduction to Orthodoxy class series has begun, meeting weekly on Saturdays at 3:00PM. All are welcome. Class subjects to still be covered are:
Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Lenten Pan-Orthodox Vespers
One of the joys of the Lenten season involves making the effort to pray and worship with the faithful from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox parishes. As we have done in the past, we are invited to participate in pan-Orthodox vespers on Sunday evenings during Lent. A fellowship meal will be offered by each host parish. The schedule is as follows.
Sunday, March 17, 5:30PM- St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church (501 A Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids)
Sunday, March 24, 5:30PM- St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (613 W. 4th St., Waterloo)
Sunday, March 31, 5:30PM- St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Church (722 E. College St., Iowa City) Please sign-up to bring food to share with our guests!
Sunday, April 7, 5:30PM- St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
Lenten Wednesday Nights
During Lent, we pray the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten Eucharistic service, starting at 6:00PM. Following the service, all are invited to stay for a simple Lenten Soup Supper and a short discussion on some of the prayers mentioned in Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God."
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
"Love, Death and the Resurrection"- A Recital by Paul Barnes
Love, Death and Resurrection- In the Musical Vision of Philip Glass, Victoria Bond, Franz Lizst and Orthodox Chant is a recital by pianist and chanter Paul Barnes on April 4 at 6:30 in the Voxman Music Building Recital Hall at the University of Iowa. See attached poster for more information.
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day
On Saturday April 6 from 1:00PM-4:30PM we will be cleaning up our church building and grounds, getting it ready for Bishop Anthony's visit the following weekend, and Holy Week and Pascha. Please come and help!
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. See attached flyer.
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to:www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Shelter House Book Sale
The annual Shelter House Book Sale will be held on March 30, 10:30AM – 4:00PM and March 31, 12:00PM – 4:00PM at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, Bldg. C. There will be thousands of gently used books plus music, movies, art, and vintage tees for sale. All proceeds will benefit Shelter House.
Save the Date, LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. More details will be released in the coming weeks.
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that He was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and He was preaching the Word to them. And they came, bringing to Jesus a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above Him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Now, some of the scribes were sitting there, reasoning in their hearts, “Why does this man speak thus? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” And immediately Jesus, perceiving in His spirit that they thus reasoned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you reason thus in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your pallet and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – He said to the paralytic – “I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home.” And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all. So that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!” (Mark 2:1-12)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"As the prophets beheld, as the Apostles have taught,... as the Church has received... as the teachers have dogmatized,... as the Universe has agreed,... as Grace has shown forth,... as Truth has revealed,... as falsehood has been dissolved,... as Wisdom has presented,... as Christ Awarded,... thus we declare,... thus we assert,... thus we preach Christ our true God, and honor as Saints in words, in writings, in thoughts, in sacrifices, in churches, in Holy Icons; on the one hand worshipping and reverencing Christ as God and Lord; and on the other hand honoring as true servants of the same Lord of all and accordingly offering them veneration.
This is the Faith of the Apostles, this is the Faith of the Fathers, this is the Faith of the Orthodox, this is the Faith which has established the Universe."
Synodikon of the Sunday of Orthodoxy
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
saint-raphael-iowa-city+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
March 18, Monday
+ Great Compline, 7:00PM
March 19, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
March 20, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, followed by Lenten Soup Supper and Discussion on Prayer, 6:00PM
March 22, Friday
+ Little Compline with Akathist Hymn, 7:00PM
March 23, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
March 24, Sunday, Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas (2nd Sunday of Lent)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Pan-Orthodox Vespers followed by meal (St. Demetrios Church, Waterloo) 5:30PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
No Office Hours or 3rd/9th Hour Prayers This Thursday and Friday
Fr. Ignatius will be briefly out of town this Thursday and Friday, therefore, he is not having office hours or the Hour Prayers on those two days.
Liturgy for the Feast of the Annunciation
We will commemorate the Feast of the Annunciation of our Lord with a Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on Monday, March 25.
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
Camp St. George Campers Are Raising Money
Church summer camp is a wonderful way for our kids to enjoy the outdoors, make and maintain friendships with children who share their faith, and be strengthened in their Orthodox faith. This year, we have eight children from our parish who are going to our diocesan church summer camp, Camp St. George. The families of these campers have decided there is a need to raise at least $420 before June 1. This money will be added to $700 that has been generously provided by the Order of St. Ignatius, so that each camper will receive a $140 scholarship to help offset tuition costs. The coffee hour following liturgy on March 31 will be provided by the campers and their families. They will be asking for donations to the camp scholarship fund. Look for other fundraising efforts soon, such as a table of items for sale or auction. Help our campers get to camp!
Hosting Pan-Orthodox Vespers
We are hosting visiting clergy and laypeople from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox Churches on Sunday evening, March 31 for vespers at 5:30PM. We will be providing a Lenten potluck meal for all who attend. Please sign-up on the sheet in the narthex to bring some food to share.
Lenten Wednesday Evening Soup Supper Sign-up
On March 13, 20, 27 and April 3, 11 (a Thursday that week), 17 at 6:00PM, we are praying the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten service with Eucharist. Afterward, we are staying for a simple Lenten Supper brought by a parishioner. Usually, this is a Lent-friendly soup, with possibly some bread and a salad or some fruit. A sign-up sheet is now posted in order to organize volunteers to bring food. Please sign up! Perhaps two families would like to share the responsibilities? We are hoping that because our book group will continue meeting on Wednesday evenings, that we will have slightly larger groups to feed than in years past.
Food For Hungry People Collection Boxes
Each year during Lent, we participate in an archdiocese-wide effort to collect funds for the Food For Hungry People Project, which helps ministries that are engaged with alleviating hunger. Collection boxes are available for pick-up in the church narthex. Take one home and fill it up with loose change during Lent and bring it back during Holy Week or soon after Pascha.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to: ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula's baptism is Saturday, March 30 at 10:30AM. All are invited. Please RSVP to Alli Rockwell if you plan to attend.
Baptisms of Isaak, Eva and Sofia Lentz
We are having a triple baptism for Isaak, Eva and Sofia at 8:45AM on Sunday, March 31, in place of matins. All are invited.
Intro to Orthodoxy Class
An Introduction to Orthodoxy class series has begun, meeting weekly on Saturdays at 3:00PM. All are welcome. Class subjects to still be covered are:
Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Lenten Pan-Orthodox Vespers
One of the joys of the Lenten season involves making the effort to pray and worship with the faithful from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox parishes. As we have done in the past, we are invited to participate in pan-Orthodox vespers on Sunday evenings during Lent. A fellowship meal will be offered by each host parish. The schedule is as follows.
Sunday, March 17, 5:30PM- St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church (501 A Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids)
Sunday, March 24, 5:30PM- St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (613 W. 4th St., Waterloo)
Sunday, March 31, 5:30PM- St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Church (722 E. College St., Iowa City) Please sign-up to bring food to share with our guests!
Sunday, April 7, 5:30PM- St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
Lenten Wednesday Nights
During Lent, we pray the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten Eucharistic service, starting at 6:00PM. Following the service, all are invited to stay for a simple Lenten Soup Supper and a short discussion on some of the prayers mentioned in Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God."
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
"Love, Death and the Resurrection"- A Recital by Paul Barnes
Love, Death and Resurrection- In the Musical Vision of Philip Glass, Victoria Bond, Franz Lizst and Orthodox Chant is a recital by pianist and chanter Paul Barnes on April 4 at 6:30 in the Voxman Music Building Recital Hall at the University of Iowa. See attached poster for more information.
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day
On Saturday April 6 from 1:00PM-4:30PM we will be cleaning up our church building and grounds, getting it ready for Bishop Anthony's visit the following weekend, and Holy Week and Pascha. Please come and help!
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. See attached flyer.
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to:www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Shelter House Book Sale
The annual Shelter House Book Sale will be held on March 30, 10:30AM – 4:00PM and March 31, 12:00PM – 4:00PM at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, Bldg. C. There will be thousands of gently used books plus music, movies, art, and vintage tees for sale. All proceeds will benefit Shelter House.
Save the Date, LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. More details will be released in the coming weeks.
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that He was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and He was preaching the Word to them. And they came, bringing to Jesus a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above Him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Now, some of the scribes were sitting there, reasoning in their hearts, “Why does this man speak thus? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” And immediately Jesus, perceiving in His spirit that they thus reasoned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you reason thus in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your pallet and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – He said to the paralytic – “I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home.” And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all. So that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!” (Mark 2:1-12)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"As the prophets beheld, as the Apostles have taught,... as the Church has received... as the teachers have dogmatized,... as the Universe has agreed,... as Grace has shown forth,... as Truth has revealed,... as falsehood has been dissolved,... as Wisdom has presented,... as Christ Awarded,... thus we declare,... thus we assert,... thus we preach Christ our true God, and honor as Saints in words, in writings, in thoughts, in sacrifices, in churches, in Holy Icons; on the one hand worshipping and reverencing Christ as God and Lord; and on the other hand honoring as true servants of the same Lord of all and accordingly offering them veneration.
This is the Faith of the Apostles, this is the Faith of the Fathers, this is the Faith of the Orthodox, this is the Faith which has established the Universe."
Synodikon of the Sunday of Orthodoxy
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
saint-raphael-iowa-city+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
Sunday March 10, 2019, Forgiveness Sunday (Cheesefare Sunday)
This Week's Services and Events
March 11, Monday
+ Great Compline with Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, 7:00PM
March 12, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Great Compline with Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, 7:00PM
March 13, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, followed by Lenten Soup Supper and Discussion on Prayer, 6:00PM
March 14, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Little Compline with Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, 7:00PM
March 15, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Little Compline with Akathist Hymn, 7:00PM
March 16, Saturday
+ Parish Council Meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
March 17, Sunday, Sunday of the Triumph of Orthodoxy (1st Sunday of Lent)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Pan-Orthodox Vespers followed by meal (St. John the Baptist Church, Cedar Rapids) 5:30PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Thank You
The beautiful floral arrangements in church were given by Maria Lucia Cetlaus, one of our newest members at St. Raphael Church. Thank you!
"I Have Reminded You, O Soul," The Canon of St. Andrew of Crete and the Sunday of Orthodoxy (First Sunday of Lent)
During the first week of Lent, and again, during the fifth, we spend a lot of time praying through a Scripture-filled, penitential hymn called the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete. What is this all about? Listen to Dr. Edith Humphrey, in this 15 minute explanation, and then come and participate in the evening services of March 11, 12 and 14 to find out for yourself. http://ww1.antiochian.org/%E2%80%9Ci-have-reminded-you-my-soul%E2%80%9D-canon-st-andrew-crete-and-sunday-orth-0
Icon Procession Next Sunday
To celebrate the first Sunday of Lent, known as the Triumph of Orthodoxy, we will have a procession with icons at the end of liturgy. All are welcome to bring icons of their patron saints or other favorite icons and to join in on the procession.
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
Lenten Wednesday Evening Soup Supper Sign-up
On March 13, 20, 27 and April 3, 11 (a Thursday that week), 17 at 6:00PM, we are praying the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten service with Eucharist. Afterward, we will stay for a simple Lenten Supper brought by a parishioner. Usually, this is a Lent-friendly soup, with possibly some bread and a salad or some fruit. A sign-up sheet is now posted in order to organize volunteers to bring food. Please sign up! Perhaps two families would like to share the responsibilities? We are hoping that because our book group will continue meeting on Wednesday evenings, that we will have slightly larger groups to feed than in years past.
Food For Hungry People Collection Boxes
Each year during Lent, we participate in an archdiocese-wide effort to collect funds for the Food For Hungry People Project, which helps ministries that are engaged with alleviating hunger. Collection boxes are available for pick-up in the church narthex. Take one home and fill it up with loose change during Lent and bring it back during Holy Week or soon after Pascha.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to: ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Intro to Orthodoxy Class
An Introduction to Orthodoxy class series has begun, meeting weekly on Saturdays at 3:00PM. All are welcome. Class subjects to still be covered are:
Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Lenten Pan-Orthodox Vespers
One of the joys of the Lenten season involves making the effort to pray and worship with the faithful from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox parishes. As we have done in the past, we are invited to participate in pan-Orthodox vespers on Sunday evenings during Lent. A fellowship meal will be offered by each host parish. The schedule is as follows.
Sunday, March 17, 5:30PM- St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church (501 A Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids)
Sunday, March 24, 5:30PM- St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (613 W. 4th St., Waterloo)
Sunday, March 31, 5:30PM- St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Church (722 E. College St., Iowa City) Please sign-up to bring food to share with our guests!
Sunday, April 7, 5:30PM- St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
Lenten Wednesday Nights
During Lent, we pray the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten Eucharistic service, starting at 6:00PM. Following the service, all are invited to stay for a simple Lenten Soup Supper and a short discussion on some of the prayers mentioned in Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God."
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula's baptism is Saturday, March 30 at 10:30AM. All are invited. Please RSVP to Alli Rockwell if you plan to attend.
Baptisms of Isaak, Eva and Sofia Lentz
We are having a triple baptism for Isaak, Eva and Sofia at 8:45AM on Sunday, March 31, in place of matins. All are invited.
Shelter House Book Sale
The annual Shelter House Book Sale will be held on March 30, 10:30AM – 4:00PM and March 31, 12:00PM – 4:00PM at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, Bldg. C. There will be thousands of gently used books plus music, movies, art, and vintage tees for sale. All proceeds will benefit Shelter House.
"Love, Death and the Resurrection," A Recital by Paul Barnes
Love, Death and Resurrection- In the Musical Vision of Philip Glass, Victoria Bond, Franz Lizst and Orthodox Chant is a recital by pianist and chanter Paul Barnes on April 4 at 6:30 in the Voxman Music Building Recital Hall at the University of Iowa. See attached poster for more information.
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. See attached flyer.
Save the Date, LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. More details will be released in the coming weeks and months.
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus decided to go to Galilee. And He found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, “We have found Him of Whom Moses in the Law and also the Prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of March 17, 2019 Liturgy Variables 3 First Sunday of Lent him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!” Nathanael said to Jesus, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered Him, “Rabbi, Thou art the Son of God! Thou art the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these.” And Jesus said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.” (John 1:43-51)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
Great Lent is the “School of Repentance.” It is roughly equivalent to an “annual tithe” in which we offer ourselves back to God so as to be received with love, as was the prodigal son. As such, Great Lent is a gift from God, guiding us toward a way of life we may be reluctant to assume on our own, suffering as we often are from spiritual apathy or a simple lack of focus. Great Lent is also goal-oriented, for it leads us on a spiritual pilgrimage of preparation toward the “night brighter than the day” of Pascha and the Risen Lord. Great Lent is “sacred” and “soul-profiting.” It is a key component in the Orthodox Way of living out the Christian life to which we have been committed in holy Baptism.
Excerpted from "Taking Lent Seriously" found at https://oca.org/reflections/fr.-steven-kostoff/taking-lent-seriously
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
March 11, Monday
+ Great Compline with Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, 7:00PM
March 12, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Great Compline with Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, 7:00PM
March 13, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, followed by Lenten Soup Supper and Discussion on Prayer, 6:00PM
March 14, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Little Compline with Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, 7:00PM
March 15, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Little Compline with Akathist Hymn, 7:00PM
March 16, Saturday
+ Parish Council Meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
March 17, Sunday, Sunday of the Triumph of Orthodoxy (1st Sunday of Lent)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Pan-Orthodox Vespers followed by meal (St. John the Baptist Church, Cedar Rapids) 5:30PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Thank You
The beautiful floral arrangements in church were given by Maria Lucia Cetlaus, one of our newest members at St. Raphael Church. Thank you!
"I Have Reminded You, O Soul," The Canon of St. Andrew of Crete and the Sunday of Orthodoxy (First Sunday of Lent)
During the first week of Lent, and again, during the fifth, we spend a lot of time praying through a Scripture-filled, penitential hymn called the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete. What is this all about? Listen to Dr. Edith Humphrey, in this 15 minute explanation, and then come and participate in the evening services of March 11, 12 and 14 to find out for yourself. http://ww1.antiochian.org/%E2%80%9Ci-have-reminded-you-my-soul%E2%80%9D-canon-st-andrew-crete-and-sunday-orth-0
Icon Procession Next Sunday
To celebrate the first Sunday of Lent, known as the Triumph of Orthodoxy, we will have a procession with icons at the end of liturgy. All are welcome to bring icons of their patron saints or other favorite icons and to join in on the procession.
Lenten Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian
O Lord and Master of my life,
Take from me the spirit of sloth, meddling, lust of power and idle talk.
But give rather, the spirit of chastity, humility, patience and love to Thy servant.
Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own sins and not to judge my brother
For Thou art blessed, unto ages of ages. Amen.
Lenten Fasting
We have now given up dairy and eggs and fully entered into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which we give up every day until Pascha, we also abstain from olive oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
Lenten Wednesday Evening Soup Supper Sign-up
On March 13, 20, 27 and April 3, 11 (a Thursday that week), 17 at 6:00PM, we are praying the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten service with Eucharist. Afterward, we will stay for a simple Lenten Supper brought by a parishioner. Usually, this is a Lent-friendly soup, with possibly some bread and a salad or some fruit. A sign-up sheet is now posted in order to organize volunteers to bring food. Please sign up! Perhaps two families would like to share the responsibilities? We are hoping that because our book group will continue meeting on Wednesday evenings, that we will have slightly larger groups to feed than in years past.
Food For Hungry People Collection Boxes
Each year during Lent, we participate in an archdiocese-wide effort to collect funds for the Food For Hungry People Project, which helps ministries that are engaged with alleviating hunger. Collection boxes are available for pick-up in the church narthex. Take one home and fill it up with loose change during Lent and bring it back during Holy Week or soon after Pascha.
Online Resources for Great Lent
To access online resources to learn more about Great Lent and the services the Church offers to us at this time of year, go to: ww1.antiochian.org/lent
Intro to Orthodoxy Class
An Introduction to Orthodoxy class series has begun, meeting weekly on Saturdays at 3:00PM. All are welcome. Class subjects to still be covered are:
Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Lenten Pan-Orthodox Vespers
One of the joys of the Lenten season involves making the effort to pray and worship with the faithful from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox parishes. As we have done in the past, we are invited to participate in pan-Orthodox vespers on Sunday evenings during Lent. A fellowship meal will be offered by each host parish. The schedule is as follows.
Sunday, March 17, 5:30PM- St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church (501 A Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids)
Sunday, March 24, 5:30PM- St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (613 W. 4th St., Waterloo)
Sunday, March 31, 5:30PM- St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Church (722 E. College St., Iowa City) Please sign-up to bring food to share with our guests!
Sunday, April 7, 5:30PM- St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
Lenten Wednesday Nights
During Lent, we pray the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten Eucharistic service, starting at 6:00PM. Following the service, all are invited to stay for a simple Lenten Soup Supper and a short discussion on some of the prayers mentioned in Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God."
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula's baptism is Saturday, March 30 at 10:30AM. All are invited. Please RSVP to Alli Rockwell if you plan to attend.
Baptisms of Isaak, Eva and Sofia Lentz
We are having a triple baptism for Isaak, Eva and Sofia at 8:45AM on Sunday, March 31, in place of matins. All are invited.
Shelter House Book Sale
The annual Shelter House Book Sale will be held on March 30, 10:30AM – 4:00PM and March 31, 12:00PM – 4:00PM at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, Bldg. C. There will be thousands of gently used books plus music, movies, art, and vintage tees for sale. All proceeds will benefit Shelter House.
"Love, Death and the Resurrection," A Recital by Paul Barnes
Love, Death and Resurrection- In the Musical Vision of Philip Glass, Victoria Bond, Franz Lizst and Orthodox Chant is a recital by pianist and chanter Paul Barnes on April 4 at 6:30 in the Voxman Music Building Recital Hall at the University of Iowa. See attached poster for more information.
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. See attached flyer.
Save the Date, LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. More details will be released in the coming weeks and months.
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, and to register, go to: https://www.antiochianevents.com/toledo.html
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or learn more here: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus decided to go to Galilee. And He found Philip and said to him, “Follow Me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, “We have found Him of Whom Moses in the Law and also the Prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of March 17, 2019 Liturgy Variables 3 First Sunday of Lent him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!” Nathanael said to Jesus, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered Him, “Rabbi, Thou art the Son of God! Thou art the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these.” And Jesus said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.” (John 1:43-51)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
Great Lent is the “School of Repentance.” It is roughly equivalent to an “annual tithe” in which we offer ourselves back to God so as to be received with love, as was the prodigal son. As such, Great Lent is a gift from God, guiding us toward a way of life we may be reluctant to assume on our own, suffering as we often are from spiritual apathy or a simple lack of focus. Great Lent is also goal-oriented, for it leads us on a spiritual pilgrimage of preparation toward the “night brighter than the day” of Pascha and the Risen Lord. Great Lent is “sacred” and “soul-profiting.” It is a key component in the Orthodox Way of living out the Christian life to which we have been committed in holy Baptism.
Excerpted from "Taking Lent Seriously" found at https://oca.org/reflections/fr.-steven-kostoff/taking-lent-seriously
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday March 3, 2019, Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare Sunday)
This Week's Services and Events
March 5, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
March 6, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ "An Inner Step Toward God" book discussion, 7:30PM
March 7, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF dinner, 7:00PM
March 8, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
March 9, Saturday
+ Choir Rehearsal, 9:00AM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
March 10, Sunday, Sunday of Forgiveness (Cheesefare Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Forgiveness Vespers, 6:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Calendars Available
For the months of March and April, printed calendars showing services and other events, including fasting guidelines, are now printed and available at church.
Daylight Savings Time
Daylight Savings Time begins this coming Sunday, March 10. Beware so that the time change doesn't disrupt your attendance at church!
Lenten Fasting
Today, Meatfare Sunday, we say farewell to meat until we feast in the light of Christ's Holy Resurrection following the midnight service of Pascha. Next Sunday, Cheesefare Sunday, we give up dairy and eggs and fully enter into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which give up completely until Pascha, we also abstain from oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
First Week of Lent
We begin the season of repentance, our preparation for Holy Week and Pascha, which we call Lent, with Forgiveness Vespers at 6:00PM on Sunday, March 10. Following is the rest of the schedule of services for the first week of Lent. Come and pray!
Monday, March 11, 7:00PM- Great Compline with the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete
Tuesday, March 12, 7:00PM- Great Compline with the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete
Wednesday, March 13, 6:00PM-Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, followed by simple Lenten Soup Supper and brief discussion on Fr. Alexander Men's book
Thursday, March 14, 7:00PM- Little Compline with the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete
Friday, March 15, 7:00PM- Little Compline with Akathist Hymn
Lenten Wednesday Evening Soup Supper Sign-up
On March 13, 20, 27, and April 3, 11 (a Thursday that week) and 17 at 6:00PM, we are praying the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten service with Eucharist. Afterward, we will stay for a simple Lenten Supper brought by a parishioner. Usually, this is a Lent-friendly soup, with possibly some bread and a salad or some fruit. A sign-up sheet is now posted in order to organize volunteers to bring food. Please sign up! Perhaps two families would like to share the responsibilities? We are hoping that because our book group will continue meeting on Wednesday evenings, that we will have slightly larger groups to feed than in years past.
Food For Hungry People Collection Boxes
Each year during Lent, we participate in an archdiocese-wide effort to collect funds for the Food For Hungry People Project, which helps ministries that are engaged with alleviating hunger. Collections boxes are available for pick-up in the church narthex. Take one home and fill it up with loose change during Lent and bring it back during Holy Week or soon after Pascha. Metropolitan Joseph's letter about FFHP is attached.
"I Have Reminded You, O Soul" -- The Canon of St. Andrew of Crete and the Sunday of Orthodoxy (First Sunday of Lent)
During the first week of Lent, and again, during the fifth, we spend a lot of time praying through a Scripture-filled, penitential hymn called the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete. What is this all about? Listen to Dr. Edith Humphrey, in this 15 minute explanation, and then come and participate in the evening services of March 11, 12 and 14 to find out for yourself. http://ww1.antiochian.org/%E2%80%9Ci-have-reminded-you-my-soul%E2%80%9D-canon-st-andrew-crete-and-sunday-orth-0
Intro to Orthodoxy Class
An Introduction to Orthodoxy class series has begun, meeting weekly on Saturdays at 3:00PM. All are welcome. Class subjects to still be covered are:
The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Lenten Pan-Orthodox Vespers
One of the joys of the Lenten season involves making the effort to pray and worship with the faithful from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox parishes. As we have done in the past, we are invited to participate in pan-Orthodox vespers on Sunday evenings during Lent. A fellowship meal will be offered by each host parish. The schedule is as follows.
Sunday, March 17, 5:30PM- St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church (501 A Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids)
Sunday, March 24, 5:30PM- St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (613 W. 4th St., Waterloo)
Sunday, March 31, 5:30PM- St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Church (722 E. College St., Iowa City)
Sunday, April 7, 5:30PM- St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
Wednesday Night Schedule
Akathist begins at 6:50PM each week so that we can begin our series of discussions on An Inner Step Toward God: Writings and teaching on Prayer by Father Alexander Men at 7:30PM. Here is the schedule for the next several weeks:
March 6 Chs. 10-12, “The Prayer of St. Ephrem,” “The Observance of Great Lent,” and “The Saints and Prayer”
Once Lent begins in the second week of March and we are having the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts from 6:00PM-7:45PM, we will continue our discussions of some of Fr. Alexander's prayers while we share a meal together following the service.
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to:www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula's baptism is being rescheduled to Saturday, March 30 at 10:30AM. All are invited. Please RSVP to Alli Rockwell if you plan to attend.
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. Don't miss it!
Save the Date, LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. More details will be released in the coming weeks and months.
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more.
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or go here on our website.
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said to His Disciples: If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father Who is in secret; and your Father Who sees in secret will reward you. Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (Matthew 6:14-21)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski, and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
Though Thou wast arrested, O Christ, by the transgressors of the law, Thou still remainest my God, and therefore I am not ashamed. And though Thou wast lashed on Thy back I shall not deny Thee; or nailed upon the Cross, I shall not hide it; for in Thy Resurrection do I glory; for Thy death is my life, O Almighty One and Lover of mankind. O Lord, glory to Thee.
Stichera of the Resurrection, in Tone 7
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
March 5, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
March 6, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ "An Inner Step Toward God" book discussion, 7:30PM
March 7, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF dinner, 7:00PM
March 8, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
March 9, Saturday
+ Choir Rehearsal, 9:00AM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
March 10, Sunday, Sunday of Forgiveness (Cheesefare Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
+ Forgiveness Vespers, 6:00PM
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Calendars Available
For the months of March and April, printed calendars showing services and other events, including fasting guidelines, are now printed and available at church.
Daylight Savings Time
Daylight Savings Time begins this coming Sunday, March 10. Beware so that the time change doesn't disrupt your attendance at church!
Lenten Fasting
Today, Meatfare Sunday, we say farewell to meat until we feast in the light of Christ's Holy Resurrection following the midnight service of Pascha. Next Sunday, Cheesefare Sunday, we give up dairy and eggs and fully enter into the Lenten Fast. In addition to meat, dairy and eggs, which give up completely until Pascha, we also abstain from oil and wine, except for the weekends. Fish is allowed twice during Lent, on the Feast of the Annunciation (March 25) and on Palm Sunday (April 21). As always, if you have any questions about fasting, or you feel a need to modify what the Church has handed down to us as the norm, please contact Fr. Ignatius. If you are new to fasting, it is much better to go slow and easy and adopt only some of the fasting guidelines at first, rather than to overwhelm yourself and become dismayed that you are not doing it perfectly. Fasting is a tool to help us to repent and draw closer to God. It is not a way to earn favor from God.
First Week of Lent
We begin the season of repentance, our preparation for Holy Week and Pascha, which we call Lent, with Forgiveness Vespers at 6:00PM on Sunday, March 10. Following is the rest of the schedule of services for the first week of Lent. Come and pray!
Monday, March 11, 7:00PM- Great Compline with the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete
Tuesday, March 12, 7:00PM- Great Compline with the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete
Wednesday, March 13, 6:00PM-Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, followed by simple Lenten Soup Supper and brief discussion on Fr. Alexander Men's book
Thursday, March 14, 7:00PM- Little Compline with the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete
Friday, March 15, 7:00PM- Little Compline with Akathist Hymn
Lenten Wednesday Evening Soup Supper Sign-up
On March 13, 20, 27, and April 3, 11 (a Thursday that week) and 17 at 6:00PM, we are praying the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts, a special Lenten service with Eucharist. Afterward, we will stay for a simple Lenten Supper brought by a parishioner. Usually, this is a Lent-friendly soup, with possibly some bread and a salad or some fruit. A sign-up sheet is now posted in order to organize volunteers to bring food. Please sign up! Perhaps two families would like to share the responsibilities? We are hoping that because our book group will continue meeting on Wednesday evenings, that we will have slightly larger groups to feed than in years past.
Food For Hungry People Collection Boxes
Each year during Lent, we participate in an archdiocese-wide effort to collect funds for the Food For Hungry People Project, which helps ministries that are engaged with alleviating hunger. Collections boxes are available for pick-up in the church narthex. Take one home and fill it up with loose change during Lent and bring it back during Holy Week or soon after Pascha. Metropolitan Joseph's letter about FFHP is attached.
"I Have Reminded You, O Soul" -- The Canon of St. Andrew of Crete and the Sunday of Orthodoxy (First Sunday of Lent)
During the first week of Lent, and again, during the fifth, we spend a lot of time praying through a Scripture-filled, penitential hymn called the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete. What is this all about? Listen to Dr. Edith Humphrey, in this 15 minute explanation, and then come and participate in the evening services of March 11, 12 and 14 to find out for yourself. http://ww1.antiochian.org/%E2%80%9Ci-have-reminded-you-my-soul%E2%80%9D-canon-st-andrew-crete-and-sunday-orth-0
Intro to Orthodoxy Class
An Introduction to Orthodoxy class series has begun, meeting weekly on Saturdays at 3:00PM. All are welcome. Class subjects to still be covered are:
The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
Lenten Pan-Orthodox Vespers
One of the joys of the Lenten season involves making the effort to pray and worship with the faithful from other Eastern Iowa Orthodox parishes. As we have done in the past, we are invited to participate in pan-Orthodox vespers on Sunday evenings during Lent. A fellowship meal will be offered by each host parish. The schedule is as follows.
Sunday, March 17, 5:30PM- St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church (501 A Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids)
Sunday, March 24, 5:30PM- St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church (613 W. 4th St., Waterloo)
Sunday, March 31, 5:30PM- St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Church (722 E. College St., Iowa City)
Sunday, April 7, 5:30PM- St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
Wednesday Night Schedule
Akathist begins at 6:50PM each week so that we can begin our series of discussions on An Inner Step Toward God: Writings and teaching on Prayer by Father Alexander Men at 7:30PM. Here is the schedule for the next several weeks:
March 6 Chs. 10-12, “The Prayer of St. Ephrem,” “The Observance of Great Lent,” and “The Saints and Prayer”
Once Lent begins in the second week of March and we are having the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts from 6:00PM-7:45PM, we will continue our discussions of some of Fr. Alexander's prayers while we share a meal together following the service.
Forty Days for Life Prayer Effort
Johnson County Right to Life is once again organizing a Forty Days for Life Prayer effort during this Lenten season, March 6-April 14. This is a peaceful presence of prayer on behalf of the endangered unborn, on the public sidewalk in front of the Emma Goldman abortion clinic (227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City) every day from 8:00AM-8:00PM. To learn more and/or to sign-up, go to:www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula's baptism is being rescheduled to Saturday, March 30 at 10:30AM. All are invited. Please RSVP to Alli Rockwell if you plan to attend.
Bishop Anthony's Visit, April 13-14
His Grace Bishop Anthony will be with us on the weekend of April 13-14. Plan to join us as he leads a parish-wide roundtable discussion on the well being and future of our beloved parish at 3:00PM on Saturday, April 13. Stay for vespers with His Grace at 5:00PM and a potluck meal to follow. His Grace will serve a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning. Don't miss it!
Save the Date, LYRA Vocal Ensemble Concert
LYRA, a vocal ensemble from St. Petersburg, Russia will be performing a concert at our church at 2:00PM on Sunday, May 5. More details will be released in the coming weeks and months.
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
We are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer toward the front of the church, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more.
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email sroc.info@gmail.com. Or go here on our website.
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said to His Disciples: If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father Who is in secret; and your Father Who sees in secret will reward you. Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (Matthew 6:14-21)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski, and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
Though Thou wast arrested, O Christ, by the transgressors of the law, Thou still remainest my God, and therefore I am not ashamed. And though Thou wast lashed on Thy back I shall not deny Thee; or nailed upon the Cross, I shall not hide it; for in Thy Resurrection do I glory; for Thy death is my life, O Almighty One and Lover of mankind. O Lord, glory to Thee.
Stichera of the Resurrection, in Tone 7
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday, February 17, 2019, Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee
This Week's Services and Events
February 19, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
February 20, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ "An Inner Step Toward God" book discussion, 7:30PM
February 21, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
February 22, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
February 23, Saturday
+ Holy Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze, 10:30AM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
February 24, Sunday, Sunday of the Prodigal Son
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Lent is on the Horizon
We are now in the weeks preparing us for the coming of Lent. The appointed Gospel readings given to us over the next several weeks are chosen to help bring us to a mindset and disposition in which Lent will be most beneficial to us in our spiritual life. Important dates to remember: March 3 is Meatfare Sunday, March 10 is Cheesefare Sunday and the start of Lent with Forgiveness vespers in the evening.
Fast Free Week
There is no fasting this week, including on Wednesday and Friday. In today's Gospel reading, we heard how the Pharisee boasted that he fasted twice a week, while he judged the supposed sinfulness of the publican (tax collector). The Church tells us not to fast this week, as a reminder that fasting does not make us holy. Fasting is an aid, to make it easier to see our own weakness and need to repent, but it only benefits us, if we are desiring humility and shunning the desire to judge others.
Intro to Orthodoxy Class
An Introduction to Orthodoxy class series is beginning this Saturday, February 23 at 3:00PM. Class subjects are as follows.
1. Holy Tradition- What are the sources of authority in the Orthodox Church?
2. God and Humankind- Who is God and how do we relate to Him?
3. The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
4. Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
5. Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
6. Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
7. The Reunion of Christians (Orthodox Christian interactions with other Christians)
Wednesday Night Schedule
Akathist begins at 6:50PM each week so that we can begin our series of discussions on An Inner Step Toward God: Writings and teaching on Prayer by Father Alexander Men at 7:30PM. Here is the schedule for the next several weeks:
February 20 Chs. 5-7, “The Body and Prayer,” “Difficulties in Prayer,” and “Prayerful Meditations”
February 27 Chs. 8, 9, & 14: “Prayer in Everyday Life,” “The Highest Stages of Prayer,” and “Spiritual Guidance on Prayer”
March 6 Chs. 10-12, “The Prayer of St. Ephrem,” “The Observance of Great Lent,” and “The Saints and Prayer”
Once Lent begins in the second week of March and we are having the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts from 6:00PM-7:45PM, we will continue our discussions of some of Fr. Alexander's prayers while we share a meal together following the service.
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula will be baptized on Saturday, February 23 at 10:30AM. All are welcome. RSVP to Alli Rockwell if you plan to attend.
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
As announced today, we are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer to the iconostasis, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
House Blessings
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, see attached documents.
Camp St. George
Our diocesan summer camp is Camp St. George and is located at Camp EWALU near Strawberry Point, Iowa. This year's dates are June 30-July 6. Our church has access to limited scholarship funds to help offset camp tuition cost. If you have a child who is committed to going to camp and you would like to receive some of the scholarship money, please contact Fr. Ignatius soon.
Orthodox Christian Mission Center
Colombia, Ghana, and Alaska have been added to the list of OCMC Mission Teams in 2019. These new openings offer you an opportunity to follow in the apostolic footsteps of Orthodox missionaries throughout the ages who have answered the call to spread the Good News to the world. Visit www.ocmc.org to find the complete list and dates of all the 2019 Orthodox Mission Team opportunities. Apply today!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us soon, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “There was a man who had two sons; and the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that falls to me.’ And he divided his living between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took his journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in loose living. And when he had spent everything, a great famine arose in that country, and he began to be in want. So he went and joined himself to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would gladly have fed on the pods that the swine ate; and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ And he arose and came to his father. But while he was yet at a distance, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’And they began to make merry. Now his elder son was in the field; and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what this meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf,because he has received him safe and sound.’ But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Lo, these many years I have served you,and I never disobeyed your command; yet you never gave me a kid that I might make merry with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your living with harlots, you killed for him the fatted calf!’ And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to make merry and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’” (Luke 15:11-32)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
Christianity is not a doctrine.
You became Orthodox, sure, and many priests, Orthodox priests, monks, they recommend you to read Bishop Kallistos' books and ... everything is ok ...
but if you don't make the experience of God, if you don't live God ...
In spirituality, Orthodoxy is not knowledge only, because God is not an acquisition of our intellect.
You cannot say: "Well, I understand God, now I am theologian, I know the books, well, I am a good Orthodox..."
Orthodoxy is to descend in yourself and to explore the inner universe.
In the Western countries there is a tendency to know things outside of ourselves. You explore the Universe, you go in the outer space and all the knowledge is outside ...
Orthodoxy is the reverse ... To discover the inner universe which is infinite like an atom and in this depth into ourselves is God ... because God is not outside of yourself ...
So real Orthodoxy in spirituality is to explore ourselves, to go inside, but we are afraid to go inside because it is an awesome reality ...
St. Paul said: "Don't you know that you are the Temple of the Living God and God lives within you?"
-- Fr. Roman Braga
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
February 19, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
February 20, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ "An Inner Step Toward God" book discussion, 7:30PM
February 21, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
February 22, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
February 23, Saturday
+ Holy Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze, 10:30AM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
February 24, Sunday, Sunday of the Prodigal Son
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Lent is on the Horizon
We are now in the weeks preparing us for the coming of Lent. The appointed Gospel readings given to us over the next several weeks are chosen to help bring us to a mindset and disposition in which Lent will be most beneficial to us in our spiritual life. Important dates to remember: March 3 is Meatfare Sunday, March 10 is Cheesefare Sunday and the start of Lent with Forgiveness vespers in the evening.
Fast Free Week
There is no fasting this week, including on Wednesday and Friday. In today's Gospel reading, we heard how the Pharisee boasted that he fasted twice a week, while he judged the supposed sinfulness of the publican (tax collector). The Church tells us not to fast this week, as a reminder that fasting does not make us holy. Fasting is an aid, to make it easier to see our own weakness and need to repent, but it only benefits us, if we are desiring humility and shunning the desire to judge others.
Intro to Orthodoxy Class
An Introduction to Orthodoxy class series is beginning this Saturday, February 23 at 3:00PM. Class subjects are as follows.
1. Holy Tradition- What are the sources of authority in the Orthodox Church?
2. God and Humankind- Who is God and how do we relate to Him?
3. The Church of God- What is it and how is it relevant to the individual Christian?
4. Orthodox Worship- The Earthly Heaven
5. Orthodox Worship- The Sacraments
6. Orthodox Worship- Feasts, Fasts and Private Prayer
7. The Reunion of Christians (Orthodox Christian interactions with other Christians)
Wednesday Night Schedule
Akathist begins at 6:50PM each week so that we can begin our series of discussions on An Inner Step Toward God: Writings and teaching on Prayer by Father Alexander Men at 7:30PM. Here is the schedule for the next several weeks:
February 20 Chs. 5-7, “The Body and Prayer,” “Difficulties in Prayer,” and “Prayerful Meditations”
February 27 Chs. 8, 9, & 14: “Prayer in Everyday Life,” “The Highest Stages of Prayer,” and “Spiritual Guidance on Prayer”
March 6 Chs. 10-12, “The Prayer of St. Ephrem,” “The Observance of Great Lent,” and “The Saints and Prayer”
Once Lent begins in the second week of March and we are having the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts from 6:00PM-7:45PM, we will continue our discussions of some of Fr. Alexander's prayers while we share a meal together following the service.
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula will be baptized on Saturday, February 23 at 10:30AM. All are welcome. RSVP to Alli Rockwell if you plan to attend.
Welcoming Visitors by Sitting up Front
As announced today, we are making a concerted effort to stand and sit closer to the iconostasis, in the two carpeted areas with rows of chairs, so that there is more room in the back for latecomers and so that the entry ways into the nave from the narthex do not get blocked up. Let's not hesitate to fill up the middle and front part of our beautiful worship space, so the sides and the back can be free for visitors and latecomers.
House Blessings
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, see attached documents.
Camp St. George
Our diocesan summer camp is Camp St. George and is located at Camp EWALU near Strawberry Point, Iowa. This year's dates are June 30-July 6. Our church has access to limited scholarship funds to help offset camp tuition cost. If you have a child who is committed to going to camp and you would like to receive some of the scholarship money, please contact Fr. Ignatius soon.
Orthodox Christian Mission Center
Colombia, Ghana, and Alaska have been added to the list of OCMC Mission Teams in 2019. These new openings offer you an opportunity to follow in the apostolic footsteps of Orthodox missionaries throughout the ages who have answered the call to spread the Good News to the world. Visit www.ocmc.org to find the complete list and dates of all the 2019 Orthodox Mission Team opportunities. Apply today!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us soon, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “There was a man who had two sons; and the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that falls to me.’ And he divided his living between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took his journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in loose living. And when he had spent everything, a great famine arose in that country, and he began to be in want. So he went and joined himself to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would gladly have fed on the pods that the swine ate; and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ And he arose and came to his father. But while he was yet at a distance, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’And they began to make merry. Now his elder son was in the field; and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what this meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf,because he has received him safe and sound.’ But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Lo, these many years I have served you,and I never disobeyed your command; yet you never gave me a kid that I might make merry with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your living with harlots, you killed for him the fatted calf!’ And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to make merry and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’” (Luke 15:11-32)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
Christianity is not a doctrine.
You became Orthodox, sure, and many priests, Orthodox priests, monks, they recommend you to read Bishop Kallistos' books and ... everything is ok ...
but if you don't make the experience of God, if you don't live God ...
In spirituality, Orthodoxy is not knowledge only, because God is not an acquisition of our intellect.
You cannot say: "Well, I understand God, now I am theologian, I know the books, well, I am a good Orthodox..."
Orthodoxy is to descend in yourself and to explore the inner universe.
In the Western countries there is a tendency to know things outside of ourselves. You explore the Universe, you go in the outer space and all the knowledge is outside ...
Orthodoxy is the reverse ... To discover the inner universe which is infinite like an atom and in this depth into ourselves is God ... because God is not outside of yourself ...
So real Orthodoxy in spirituality is to explore ourselves, to go inside, but we are afraid to go inside because it is an awesome reality ...
St. Paul said: "Don't you know that you are the Temple of the Living God and God lives within you?"
-- Fr. Roman Braga
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday February 10, 2019, Sunday of the Canaanite Woman
This Week's Services and Events
February 12, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
February 13, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ "An Inner Step Toward God" book discussion, 7:30PM
February 14, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF College Group, 7:00PM
February 15, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
February 16, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
February 17, Sunday, Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Wednesday Night Schedule
Akathist begins at 6:50PM each week so that we can begin our series of discussions on An Inner Step Toward God: Writings and Teaching on Prayer by Father Alexander Men at 7:30PM. Here is the schedule for the next several weeks:
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula will be baptized on Saturday, February 23, at 10:30AM. All are welcome to attend. If you plan to attend the reception afterward, please RSVP to Alli at alli705@gmail.com.
Congratulations!
Congratulations to former St. Raphael Church member Damien Kulp who was married to his bride last month at St. Anne Church in Oregon. Congratulations also to Connor Ward who became a catechumen during liturgy today.
House Blessings
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, see attached documents.
Camp St. George
Our diocesan summer camp is Camp St. George and is located at Camp EWALU near Strawberry Point, Iowa. This year's dates are June 30-July 6. Our church has access to limited scholarship funds to help offset camp tuition cost. If you have a child who is committed to going to camp and you would like to receive some of the scholarship money, please contact Fr. Ignatius soon.
Orthodox Christian Mission Center
Colombia, Ghana, and Alaska have been added to the list of OCMC Mission Teams in 2019. These new openings offer you an opportunity to follow in the apostolic footsteps of Orthodox missionaries throughout the ages who have answered the call to spread the Good News to the world. Visit www.ocmc.org to find the complete list and dates of all the 2019 Orthodox Mission Team opportunities. Apply today!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us soon, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank Thee that I am not like other men, extortionists, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to Heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you,this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himselfwill be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:10-14)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"There are three main types of prayer: supplication (our very favorite), confession, and thanksgiving. Supplication is blessed and commanded. We find it in the Lord's Prayer. Notice, however, that the Lord's Prayer begins not with supplication, but with acceptance and consent: 'Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done.' Only then does it say, 'Give us this day our daily bread.' You see, in this we find inner liberation. We are not free, and we must begin by freeing ourselves from everything, in order to straighten the shoulders of our souls that are bent under a heavy burden. Someone once said that if we were to fulfill just half of the Sermon on the Mount, all our complexes would pass. This is true."
Fr. Alexander Men, An Inner Step Toward God, pp. 15-16.
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
February 12, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
February 13, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ "An Inner Step Toward God" book discussion, 7:30PM
February 14, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF College Group, 7:00PM
February 15, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
February 16, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
February 17, Sunday, Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Wednesday Night Schedule
Akathist begins at 6:50PM each week so that we can begin our series of discussions on An Inner Step Toward God: Writings and Teaching on Prayer by Father Alexander Men at 7:30PM. Here is the schedule for the next several weeks:
- February 13 Chs. 3 & 4, “A Practical Guide to Prayer: Introduction” and “Prayer and the Prayer Book”
- February 20 Chs. 5-7, “The Body and Prayer,” “Difficulties in Prayer,” and “Prayerful Meditations”
- February 27 Chs. 8, 9, & 14: “Prayer in Everyday Life,” “The Highest Stages of Prayer,” and “Spiritual Guidance on Prayer”
- March 6 Chs. 10-12, “The Prayer of St. Ephrem,” “The Observance of Great Lent,” and “The Saints and Prayer”
Baptism of Lula Gvarjaladze
Lula will be baptized on Saturday, February 23, at 10:30AM. All are welcome to attend. If you plan to attend the reception afterward, please RSVP to Alli at alli705@gmail.com.
Congratulations!
Congratulations to former St. Raphael Church member Damien Kulp who was married to his bride last month at St. Anne Church in Oregon. Congratulations also to Connor Ward who became a catechumen during liturgy today.
House Blessings
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, see attached documents.
Camp St. George
Our diocesan summer camp is Camp St. George and is located at Camp EWALU near Strawberry Point, Iowa. This year's dates are June 30-July 6. Our church has access to limited scholarship funds to help offset camp tuition cost. If you have a child who is committed to going to camp and you would like to receive some of the scholarship money, please contact Fr. Ignatius soon.
Orthodox Christian Mission Center
Colombia, Ghana, and Alaska have been added to the list of OCMC Mission Teams in 2019. These new openings offer you an opportunity to follow in the apostolic footsteps of Orthodox missionaries throughout the ages who have answered the call to spread the Good News to the world. Visit www.ocmc.org to find the complete list and dates of all the 2019 Orthodox Mission Team opportunities. Apply today!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us soon, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank Thee that I am not like other men, extortionists, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to Heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you,this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himselfwill be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:10-14)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, John and Jennifer Michalski and Connor Ward 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"There are three main types of prayer: supplication (our very favorite), confession, and thanksgiving. Supplication is blessed and commanded. We find it in the Lord's Prayer. Notice, however, that the Lord's Prayer begins not with supplication, but with acceptance and consent: 'Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done.' Only then does it say, 'Give us this day our daily bread.' You see, in this we find inner liberation. We are not free, and we must begin by freeing ourselves from everything, in order to straighten the shoulders of our souls that are bent under a heavy burden. Someone once said that if we were to fulfill just half of the Sermon on the Mount, all our complexes would pass. This is true."
Fr. Alexander Men, An Inner Step Toward God, pp. 15-16.
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday February 3, 2019, Synaxis of Simeon the God-Receiver and Anna the Prophetess
This Week's Services and Events
February 5, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
February 6, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ "An Inner Step Toward God" book discussion, 7:30PM
February 7, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Dinner, 7:00PM
February 8, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
February 9, Saturday
+ Choir Rehearsal, 9:00AM-12:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
February 10, Sunday, Sunday of the Canaanite Woman
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Wednesday Night Schedule
Akathist begins at 6:50PM each week so that we can begin our series of discussions on An Inner Step Toward God: Writings and teaching on Prayer by Father Alexander Men at 7:30PM. Here is the schedule for the next several weeks:
February 6 Introduction and ch. 1, “An Inner Step” Ch. 2, “Prayer: Loving Response and Sacramental Encounter”
February 13 Chs. 3 & 4, “A Practical Guide to Prayer: Introduction” and “Prayer and the Prayer Book”
February 20 Chs. 5-7, “The Body and Prayer,” “Difficulties in Prayer,” and “Prayerful Meditations”
February 27 Chs. 8, 9, & 14: “Prayer in Everyday Life,” “The Highest Stages of Prayer,” and “Spiritual Guidance on Prayer”
March 6 Chs. 10-12, “The Prayer of St. Ephrem,” “The Observance of Great Lent,” and “The Saints and Prayer”
Once Lent begins in the second week of March and we are having the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts from 6:00PM-7:45PM, we will continue our discussions of some of Fr. Alexander's prayers while we share a meal together following the service.
House Blessings
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, see attached documents.
Camp St. George
Our diocesan summer camp is Camp St. George and is located at Camp EWALU near Strawberry Point, Iowa. This year's dates are June 30-July 6. Our church has access to limited scholarship funds to help offset camp tuition cost. If you have a child who is committed to going to camp and you would like to receive some of the scholarship money, please contact Fr. Ignatius soon.
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us soon, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
"At that time, Jesus went to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and cried, 'Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon.' But He did not answer her one word. And His disciples came and begged Him, saying, 'Send her away, for she is crying after us.' He answered, 'I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.' But she came and knelt before Him, saying, 'Lord, help me.' And He answered, 'It is not fair to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.' She said, 'Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.' Then Jesus answered her, 'O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.' And her daughter was healed instantly. " (Matthew 15: 21-28)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Verily, Christ did descend to Hades to bring good tidings to those therein, saying, Have faith now; for I have conquered; for I am the Resurrection, Who, unlocking the gates of death, shall set ye free."
Troparion of the Resurrection at "O Lord I have cried" Tone 3
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
February 5, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
February 6, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ "An Inner Step Toward God" book discussion, 7:30PM
February 7, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Dinner, 7:00PM
February 8, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
February 9, Saturday
+ Choir Rehearsal, 9:00AM-12:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
February 10, Sunday, Sunday of the Canaanite Woman
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Wednesday Night Schedule
Akathist begins at 6:50PM each week so that we can begin our series of discussions on An Inner Step Toward God: Writings and teaching on Prayer by Father Alexander Men at 7:30PM. Here is the schedule for the next several weeks:
February 6 Introduction and ch. 1, “An Inner Step” Ch. 2, “Prayer: Loving Response and Sacramental Encounter”
February 13 Chs. 3 & 4, “A Practical Guide to Prayer: Introduction” and “Prayer and the Prayer Book”
February 20 Chs. 5-7, “The Body and Prayer,” “Difficulties in Prayer,” and “Prayerful Meditations”
February 27 Chs. 8, 9, & 14: “Prayer in Everyday Life,” “The Highest Stages of Prayer,” and “Spiritual Guidance on Prayer”
March 6 Chs. 10-12, “The Prayer of St. Ephrem,” “The Observance of Great Lent,” and “The Saints and Prayer”
Once Lent begins in the second week of March and we are having the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts from 6:00PM-7:45PM, we will continue our discussions of some of Fr. Alexander's prayers while we share a meal together following the service.
House Blessings
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, see attached documents.
Camp St. George
Our diocesan summer camp is Camp St. George and is located at Camp EWALU near Strawberry Point, Iowa. This year's dates are June 30-July 6. Our church has access to limited scholarship funds to help offset camp tuition cost. If you have a child who is committed to going to camp and you would like to receive some of the scholarship money, please contact Fr. Ignatius soon.
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us soon, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
"At that time, Jesus went to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and cried, 'Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon.' But He did not answer her one word. And His disciples came and begged Him, saying, 'Send her away, for she is crying after us.' He answered, 'I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.' But she came and knelt before Him, saying, 'Lord, help me.' And He answered, 'It is not fair to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.' She said, 'Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.' Then Jesus answered her, 'O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.' And her daughter was healed instantly. " (Matthew 15: 21-28)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg, and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Verily, Christ did descend to Hades to bring good tidings to those therein, saying, Have faith now; for I have conquered; for I am the Resurrection, Who, unlocking the gates of death, shall set ye free."
Troparion of the Resurrection at "O Lord I have cried" Tone 3
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday January 27, 2019, Zacchaeus Sunday and St. Nina of Georgia
This Week's Services and Events
January 29, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 30, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ "An Inner Step Toward God" book discussion, 7:30PM
January 31, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
February 1, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
February 2, Saturday
+ Matins for Presentation of Christ in the Temple, 8:45AM
+ Liturgy for Presentation of Christ in the Temple and Blessing of Candles, 10:00AM
+ Baby Shower for Leti Gebretsadik, 12:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
February 3, Sunday, 32nd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Wednesday Night Schedule-
Akathist begins at 6:50PM each week so that we can begin our series of discussions on An Inner Step Toward God: Writings and teaching on Prayer by Father Alexander Men at 7:30PM. Here is the schedule for the next several weeks:
January 30 Introduction and ch. 1, “An Inner Step”
February 6 Ch. 2, “Prayer: Loving Response and Sacramental Encounter”
February 13 Chs. 3 & 4, “A Practical Guide to Prayer: Introduction” and “Prayer and the Prayer Book”
February 20 Chs. 5-7, “The Body and Prayer,” “Difficulties in Prayer,” and “Prayerful Meditations”
February 27 Chs. 8, 9, & 14: “Prayer in Everyday Life,” “The Highest Stages of Prayer,” and “Spiritual Guidance on Prayer”
March 6 Chs. 10-12, “The Prayer of St. Ephrem,” “The Observance of Great Lent,” and “The Saints and Prayer”
Once Lent begins in the second week of March and we are having the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts from 6:00PM-7:45PM, we will continue our discussions of some of Fr. Alexander's prayers while we share a meal together following the service.
Baby Shower
Leti Gebretsadik and her husband Mulu Hagos are expecting their fifth child soon. This new baby girl will join older siblings Misgana, Setna, Namurud and Solyana. We are holding a baby shower immediately following Liturgy this coming Saturday morning, February 2, at noon. All are invited to help Leti and family celebrate!
House Blessings
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2018 Donor Letters
Letters detailing money given to the church in 2018 are being distributed. You can use these for tax purposes. If you have any questions, contact our new treasurer, Karen Kuntz.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, see attached documents.
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on Our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: A man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted to them his property; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them; and he made five talents more. So also, he who had the two talents made two talents more. But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money. Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying: “Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have made five talents more.” His master said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.” And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying: “Master, you delivered to me two talents; here I have made two talents more.” His master said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.” He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying: “Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sew, and gathering where you did not winnow; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.” But his master answered him, “You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sowed, and gather where I have not winnowed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has the ten talents. For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.” As Jesus said these things He cried out: “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!” (Matthew 25:14-30)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Do not establish your previously committed sins in your soul by thinking about them so that they not be repeated in you. Be assured that they were forgiven you from the time that you gave yourself to God and to repentance. In that, do not doubt"
– St. Anthony the Great
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
January 29, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 30, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ "An Inner Step Toward God" book discussion, 7:30PM
January 31, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
February 1, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
February 2, Saturday
+ Matins for Presentation of Christ in the Temple, 8:45AM
+ Liturgy for Presentation of Christ in the Temple and Blessing of Candles, 10:00AM
+ Baby Shower for Leti Gebretsadik, 12:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
February 3, Sunday, 32nd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Wednesday Night Schedule-
Akathist begins at 6:50PM each week so that we can begin our series of discussions on An Inner Step Toward God: Writings and teaching on Prayer by Father Alexander Men at 7:30PM. Here is the schedule for the next several weeks:
January 30 Introduction and ch. 1, “An Inner Step”
February 6 Ch. 2, “Prayer: Loving Response and Sacramental Encounter”
February 13 Chs. 3 & 4, “A Practical Guide to Prayer: Introduction” and “Prayer and the Prayer Book”
February 20 Chs. 5-7, “The Body and Prayer,” “Difficulties in Prayer,” and “Prayerful Meditations”
February 27 Chs. 8, 9, & 14: “Prayer in Everyday Life,” “The Highest Stages of Prayer,” and “Spiritual Guidance on Prayer”
March 6 Chs. 10-12, “The Prayer of St. Ephrem,” “The Observance of Great Lent,” and “The Saints and Prayer”
Once Lent begins in the second week of March and we are having the Liturgy of Pre-Sanctified Gifts from 6:00PM-7:45PM, we will continue our discussions of some of Fr. Alexander's prayers while we share a meal together following the service.
Baby Shower
Leti Gebretsadik and her husband Mulu Hagos are expecting their fifth child soon. This new baby girl will join older siblings Misgana, Setna, Namurud and Solyana. We are holding a baby shower immediately following Liturgy this coming Saturday morning, February 2, at noon. All are invited to help Leti and family celebrate!
House Blessings
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2018 Donor Letters
Letters detailing money given to the church in 2018 are being distributed. You can use these for tax purposes. If you have any questions, contact our new treasurer, Karen Kuntz.
2019 Parish Life Conference
This year's annual diocesan get together known as the Parish Life Conference promises to be a special, worthwhile event. St. Nicholas Church in Urbana, Illinois is the host parish and most of the events, including the dining and the lodging, will be on the campus of the University of Illinois. The dates are June 20-22. This will be accessible (only a 4 hour drive) affordable, family-friendly and a great chance to meet many people from around our diocese and to learn about many different aspects of our faith. With Bishop Anthony, we will pray together, eat together and learn together. Workshop topics being offered include stewardship, missions, grief, motherhood and more. To learn more, see attached documents.
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on Our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: A man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted to them his property; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them; and he made five talents more. So also, he who had the two talents made two talents more. But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money. Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying: “Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have made five talents more.” His master said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.” And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying: “Master, you delivered to me two talents; here I have made two talents more.” His master said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.” He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying: “Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sew, and gathering where you did not winnow; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.” But his master answered him, “You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sowed, and gather where I have not winnowed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has the ten talents. For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.” As Jesus said these things He cried out: “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!” (Matthew 25:14-30)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Do not establish your previously committed sins in your soul by thinking about them so that they not be repeated in you. Be assured that they were forgiven you from the time that you gave yourself to God and to repentance. In that, do not doubt"
– St. Anthony the Great
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday January 20, 2019, St. Euthymios the Great
This Week's Services and Event
January 22, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 23, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Fr. Alexander Men lecture at Iowa City Public Library, 7:00PM
January 24, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Game Night, 7:00PM at IMU
January 25, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
January 26, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
January 27, Sunday, Zacchaeus Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Father Alexander Men Lecture, This Wednesday!
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr--Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
Sanctity of Life
This week marks the 46th anniversary of the legalization of abortion in America. There are many assaults on the dignity and sanctity of human life in a world that is either ignorant of, or openly opposes the revealed truth that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God Almighty. Abortion, by its sheer scope and extreme violence, is chief among these assaults. Each year, approximately one million of the most defenseless and most innocent human beings are legally put to death in our country (and many, many more around the world), because choice and lust have been exalted as gods and also because we do not do enough to support women who are considering ending their children's lives before they are even born, so that this "choice" will be unthinkable. Abortion is such a significant evil that there are not just one or two ways to oppose it and to make a change for the better. Somebody may be called to petition their elected officials for a change in the laws. Somebody may be called to support agencies and ministries that offer real alternatives and support to women who may be considering abortion. Somebody may be called upon to directly offer real and substantial help to women as they are walking in to their abortion appointments. Somebody may be called upon to raise social awareness by participating in a march (Bishop Anthony has done it- see pictures at the following link) or by supporting efforts to present a pro-life message to our society in a variety of ways. We all can do something. Certainly, we all can pray for the protection of the unborn who are endangered by abortion and for a change in heart of the mothers and their male partners who may be considering abortion as their best or only option. And we can be certain that like any sin, abortion is forgivable if repentance is genuine. God loves the repentant sinner. https://domoca.org/news_150127_1.html
Parish Council Installation
Your 2019 Parish Council consists of Newman Abuissa, chairman; Bill Spencer, vice-chair; Karen Kuntz, treasurer; Julia Buchkina, secretary; Iulian Vamanu and Brian Horak. At the end of liturgy today, they were officially installed. May God grant them many years!
Financial Notes
Final numbers are in for 2018. Total expenses were $113,621 and total income was $129,325 for a net income (after some pass-through income was deducted) of $15,181. Thank God! This good news of ending 2018 "in the black" was because of some short term special gifts that made up the difference. Long term, we still have work to do to become financially stable and to grow our income.
House Blessing Season Continues
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2018 Donor Letters
Letters detailing money given to the church in 2018 will be distributed starting very soon. You can use these for tax purposes. If you have any questions, contact our new treasurer, Karen Kuntz.
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on Our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
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 and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Indeed the mystery of Christ runs the risk of being disbelieved precisely because it is so incredibly wonderful."
St. Cyril of Alexandria
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
January 22, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 23, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Fr. Alexander Men lecture at Iowa City Public Library, 7:00PM
January 24, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Game Night, 7:00PM at IMU
January 25, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
January 26, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
January 27, Sunday, Zacchaeus Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Father Alexander Men Lecture, This Wednesday!
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr--Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
Sanctity of Life
This week marks the 46th anniversary of the legalization of abortion in America. There are many assaults on the dignity and sanctity of human life in a world that is either ignorant of, or openly opposes the revealed truth that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God Almighty. Abortion, by its sheer scope and extreme violence, is chief among these assaults. Each year, approximately one million of the most defenseless and most innocent human beings are legally put to death in our country (and many, many more around the world), because choice and lust have been exalted as gods and also because we do not do enough to support women who are considering ending their children's lives before they are even born, so that this "choice" will be unthinkable. Abortion is such a significant evil that there are not just one or two ways to oppose it and to make a change for the better. Somebody may be called to petition their elected officials for a change in the laws. Somebody may be called to support agencies and ministries that offer real alternatives and support to women who may be considering abortion. Somebody may be called upon to directly offer real and substantial help to women as they are walking in to their abortion appointments. Somebody may be called upon to raise social awareness by participating in a march (Bishop Anthony has done it- see pictures at the following link) or by supporting efforts to present a pro-life message to our society in a variety of ways. We all can do something. Certainly, we all can pray for the protection of the unborn who are endangered by abortion and for a change in heart of the mothers and their male partners who may be considering abortion as their best or only option. And we can be certain that like any sin, abortion is forgivable if repentance is genuine. God loves the repentant sinner. https://domoca.org/news_150127_1.html
Parish Council Installation
Your 2019 Parish Council consists of Newman Abuissa, chairman; Bill Spencer, vice-chair; Karen Kuntz, treasurer; Julia Buchkina, secretary; Iulian Vamanu and Brian Horak. At the end of liturgy today, they were officially installed. May God grant them many years!
Financial Notes
Final numbers are in for 2018. Total expenses were $113,621 and total income was $129,325 for a net income (after some pass-through income was deducted) of $15,181. Thank God! This good news of ending 2018 "in the black" was because of some short term special gifts that made up the difference. Long term, we still have work to do to become financially stable and to grow our income.
House Blessing Season Continues
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2018 Donor Letters
Letters detailing money given to the church in 2018 will be distributed starting very soon. You can use these for tax purposes. If you have any questions, contact our new treasurer, Karen Kuntz.
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on Our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
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 and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Indeed the mystery of Christ runs the risk of being disbelieved precisely because it is so incredibly wonderful."
St. Cyril of Alexandria
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday January 13, 2019, The Sunday after Theophany
This Week's Services and Event
January 15, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vespers in Kalona, 7:00PM
January 16, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
January 17, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 18, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
January 19, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
January 20, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
House Blessing Season is Here
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2018 Donor Letters
Letters detailing money given to the church in 2018 will be distributed starting very soon. You can use these for tax purposes. If you have any questions, contact our new treasurer, Karen Kuntz.
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
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 and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
Colossians 3:17
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
saint-raphael-iowa-city+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
January 15, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vespers in Kalona, 7:00PM
January 16, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
January 17, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 18, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
January 19, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
January 20, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Sunday School and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
House Blessing Season is Here
Until March 10, Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings. If you haven't already received an email from him suggesting times and dates when he is available, you will soon. Alternately, you can contact him and suggest times and dates that work for you. Fr. Ignatius wants to bless every home! This can be as short as a 15 minute stop for prayers and blessing with holy water, or, depending upon availability, a longer visit.
2018 Donor Letters
Letters detailing money given to the church in 2018 will be distributed starting very soon. You can use these for tax purposes. If you have any questions, contact our new treasurer, Karen Kuntz.
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
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 and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
Colossians 3:17
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
saint-raphael-iowa-city+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
Sunday January 6, 2018, The Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ
This Week's Services and Event
January 8, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 9, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
January 10, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 11, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
January 12, Saturday
+ Outdoor Blessing of Water, 4:00PM (1st Ave. Bridge, downtown Cedar Rapids) followed by vespers at St. George Church
January 13, Sunday, The Sunday after the Theophany of Christ
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Blessing of the Water and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Outdoor Blessing of the Water
Fr. Fred Shaheen and the faithful of St. George Church in Cedar Rapids invite us to join them in an Outdoor Blessing of the Water service on the 1st Avenue bridge in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4:00PM on Saturday, January 12. Following that brief service, all are invited to vespers at St. George Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids) at 5:00PM.
Archdiocese Monthly Magazine, The Word
Did you know that our Archdiocese produces a monthly magazine? You can access this online each month at http://ww1.antiochian.org/theword
The Order of St. Ignatius
Do you know what "The Order" is? It is the philanthropic arm of our Archdiocese, funded by membership fees. The Order funds or partially finds whole departments in our archdiocese such as Missions and Evangelism, Youth Ministry and Internet Ministry. The Order also funds the Retired Clergy Housing Allowance, scholarships for our children to attend church summer camps, married seminarian housing, and grants for missions. We have benefited from the generosity of the Order many times, especially as they have helped fund Fr. Ignatius's required church-related travels when we haven't been able to budget for that, and also through summer camp scholarships for our children. To learn more about this opportunity to serve through giving, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/order
House Blessing Season is Approaching
Fr. Ignatius would like to bless the home of everyone associated with St. Raphael Church during the traditional house blessing season which lasts from the feast of Theophany until the beginning of Lent: this coming year, January 7- March 10. Contact him and set up a time for him to come! We bless our homes because we want God to be a part of every aspect of our lives. There is nothing in our lives, that is unimportant to Him. So, we invite Him to make our homes sacred places, through the house blessing prayers.
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by Thee, and Thou dost come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, He went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and alighting on Him; and lo, a voice from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, with Whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:13-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
---
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
January 8, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 9, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
January 10, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 11, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
January 12, Saturday
+ Outdoor Blessing of Water, 4:00PM (1st Ave. Bridge, downtown Cedar Rapids) followed by vespers at St. George Church
January 13, Sunday, The Sunday after the Theophany of Christ
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Blessing of the Water and coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Outdoor Blessing of the Water
Fr. Fred Shaheen and the faithful of St. George Church in Cedar Rapids invite us to join them in an Outdoor Blessing of the Water service on the 1st Avenue bridge in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4:00PM on Saturday, January 12. Following that brief service, all are invited to vespers at St. George Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids) at 5:00PM.
Archdiocese Monthly Magazine, The Word
Did you know that our Archdiocese produces a monthly magazine? You can access this online each month at http://ww1.antiochian.org/theword
The Order of St. Ignatius
Do you know what "The Order" is? It is the philanthropic arm of our Archdiocese, funded by membership fees. The Order funds or partially finds whole departments in our archdiocese such as Missions and Evangelism, Youth Ministry and Internet Ministry. The Order also funds the Retired Clergy Housing Allowance, scholarships for our children to attend church summer camps, married seminarian housing, and grants for missions. We have benefited from the generosity of the Order many times, especially as they have helped fund Fr. Ignatius's required church-related travels when we haven't been able to budget for that, and also through summer camp scholarships for our children. To learn more about this opportunity to serve through giving, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/order
House Blessing Season is Approaching
Fr. Ignatius would like to bless the home of everyone associated with St. Raphael Church during the traditional house blessing season which lasts from the feast of Theophany until the beginning of Lent: this coming year, January 7- March 10. Contact him and set up a time for him to come! We bless our homes because we want God to be a part of every aspect of our lives. There is nothing in our lives, that is unimportant to Him. So, we invite Him to make our homes sacred places, through the house blessing prayers.
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by Thee, and Thou dost come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, He went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and alighting on Him; and lo, a voice from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, with Whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:13-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
---
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday December 30, 2018, Sunday after the Nativity of Christ
Christ is born! Glorify Him!
This Week's Services and Event
January 2, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
January 3, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 4, Friday
+ Royal Hours for Theophany, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 10:30AM-12:30PM
January 5, Saturday
+ Matins for Theophany Eve, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy for Theophany Eve, 10:00AM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
January 6, Sunday, Great Feast of the Theophany of our Lord
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy with Blessing of the Water, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Happy New Year!
May the Lord richly bless you during 2019.
Many Years!
John and Jennifer Michalski were received as catechumens today. May God grant them many years!
Feast of Theophany
The Feast of Theophany, which is a celebration of the baptism of the Lord and the realization that He has come to redeem His entire created world and not merely mankind, follows the same patterns of liturgical services as does the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord. Therefore, the first service related to the feast is Royal Hours, a quiet, prayerful service filled with lots of readings from the Holy Scripture, including much from the Old Testament. We will hold this service at 9AM on January 4. We also mark the day before the Feast of Theophany with special services. This year, we will have matins and Liturgy on the morning of January 5 (Theophany Eve), at 8:45AM and 10AM. We will also have our normal cycle of services on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. At the end of Liturgy on Sunday, we will do a blessing of the water service. This is the service at which holy water is blessed. If you have them, bring your bottles from home so that they can be filled with holy water.
Free Lunch Program Volunteering
Our monthly opportunity to volunteer at the Free Lunch Program is this Thursday, January 3, from 11:30AM-1:00PM. Fr. Ignatius will be there. If you can join him, let him know.
Feasting after Fasting
There is no fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays, until the eve of Theophany, January 5. Enjoy this season of the celebration of the Incarnation of our Lord with good food, drink, friends and family!
Sunday School Break
There will be no Sunday School on December 30 or January 6. We will resume on January 13.
Outdoor Blessing of the Water
Fr. Fred Shaheen and the faithful of St. George Church in Cedar Rapids invite us to join them in an Outdoor Blessing of the Water service on the 1st Avenue bridge in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4:00PM on Saturday, January 12. Following that brief service, all are invited to vespers at St. George Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids) at 5:00PM.
Archdiocese Monthly Magazine, The Word
Did you know that our Archdiocese produces a monthly magazine? You can access this online each month at http://ww1.antiochian.org/theword
The Order of St. Ignatius
Do you know what "The Order" is? It is the philanthropic arm of our Archdiocese, funded by membership fees. The Order funds or partially finds whole departments in our archdiocese such as Missions and Evangelism, Youth Ministry and Internet Ministry. The Order also funds the Retired Clergy Housing Allowance, scholarships for our children to attend church summer camps, married seminarian housing, and grants for missions. We have benefited from the generosity of the Order many times, especially as they have helped fund Fr. Ignatius's required church-related travels when we haven't been able to budget for that, and also through summer camp scholarships for our children. To learn more about this opportunity to serve through giving, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/order
House Blessing Season is Approaching
Fr. Ignatius would like to bless the home of everyone associated with St. Raphael Church during the traditional house blessing season which lasts from the feast of Theophany until the beginning of Lent: this coming year, January 7- March 10. Contact him and set up a time for him to come! We bless our homes because we want God to be a part of every aspect of our lives. There is nothing in our lives, that is unimportant to Him. So, we invite Him to make our homes sacred places, through the house blessing prayers.
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by Thee, and Thou dost come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, He went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and alighting on Him; and lo, a voice from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, with Whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:13-17)
Pray for Our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Thus entered into the world He Whose coming was foretold by the prophets, and Who was born in the same manner in which it had been prophesied: of a Most-holy Virgin, in the town of Bethlehem, of the lineage of David according to the flesh, at the time when there was no king in Jerusalem of the lineage of Judah, but rather when a foreigner named Herod, who sought to kill the infant Messiah, was reigning. After many types and prefigurings, messengers and heralds, prophets and righteous men, wise men and kings, finally He appeared, the Lord of the world and King of kings, to perform the work of the salvation of mankind. Unto Him be glory unto ages of ages. Amen."
Verses from Matins of the Feast of the Nativity of Christ
This Week's Services and Event
January 2, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
January 3, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
January 4, Friday
+ Royal Hours for Theophany, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 10:30AM-12:30PM
January 5, Saturday
+ Matins for Theophany Eve, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy for Theophany Eve, 10:00AM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
January 6, Sunday, Great Feast of the Theophany of our Lord
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy with Blessing of the Water, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Happy New Year!
May the Lord richly bless you during 2019.
Many Years!
John and Jennifer Michalski were received as catechumens today. May God grant them many years!
Feast of Theophany
The Feast of Theophany, which is a celebration of the baptism of the Lord and the realization that He has come to redeem His entire created world and not merely mankind, follows the same patterns of liturgical services as does the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord. Therefore, the first service related to the feast is Royal Hours, a quiet, prayerful service filled with lots of readings from the Holy Scripture, including much from the Old Testament. We will hold this service at 9AM on January 4. We also mark the day before the Feast of Theophany with special services. This year, we will have matins and Liturgy on the morning of January 5 (Theophany Eve), at 8:45AM and 10AM. We will also have our normal cycle of services on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. At the end of Liturgy on Sunday, we will do a blessing of the water service. This is the service at which holy water is blessed. If you have them, bring your bottles from home so that they can be filled with holy water.
Free Lunch Program Volunteering
Our monthly opportunity to volunteer at the Free Lunch Program is this Thursday, January 3, from 11:30AM-1:00PM. Fr. Ignatius will be there. If you can join him, let him know.
Feasting after Fasting
There is no fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays, until the eve of Theophany, January 5. Enjoy this season of the celebration of the Incarnation of our Lord with good food, drink, friends and family!
Sunday School Break
There will be no Sunday School on December 30 or January 6. We will resume on January 13.
Outdoor Blessing of the Water
Fr. Fred Shaheen and the faithful of St. George Church in Cedar Rapids invite us to join them in an Outdoor Blessing of the Water service on the 1st Avenue bridge in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4:00PM on Saturday, January 12. Following that brief service, all are invited to vespers at St. George Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids) at 5:00PM.
Archdiocese Monthly Magazine, The Word
Did you know that our Archdiocese produces a monthly magazine? You can access this online each month at http://ww1.antiochian.org/theword
The Order of St. Ignatius
Do you know what "The Order" is? It is the philanthropic arm of our Archdiocese, funded by membership fees. The Order funds or partially finds whole departments in our archdiocese such as Missions and Evangelism, Youth Ministry and Internet Ministry. The Order also funds the Retired Clergy Housing Allowance, scholarships for our children to attend church summer camps, married seminarian housing, and grants for missions. We have benefited from the generosity of the Order many times, especially as they have helped fund Fr. Ignatius's required church-related travels when we haven't been able to budget for that, and also through summer camp scholarships for our children. To learn more about this opportunity to serve through giving, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/order
House Blessing Season is Approaching
Fr. Ignatius would like to bless the home of everyone associated with St. Raphael Church during the traditional house blessing season which lasts from the feast of Theophany until the beginning of Lent: this coming year, January 7- March 10. Contact him and set up a time for him to come! We bless our homes because we want God to be a part of every aspect of our lives. There is nothing in our lives, that is unimportant to Him. So, we invite Him to make our homes sacred places, through the house blessing prayers.
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by Thee, and Thou dost come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, He went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and alighting on Him; and lo, a voice from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, with Whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:13-17)
Pray for Our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Fabian Muller-Dahlberg and John and Jennifer Michalski 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Thus entered into the world He Whose coming was foretold by the prophets, and Who was born in the same manner in which it had been prophesied: of a Most-holy Virgin, in the town of Bethlehem, of the lineage of David according to the flesh, at the time when there was no king in Jerusalem of the lineage of Judah, but rather when a foreigner named Herod, who sought to kill the infant Messiah, was reigning. After many types and prefigurings, messengers and heralds, prophets and righteous men, wise men and kings, finally He appeared, the Lord of the world and King of kings, to perform the work of the salvation of mankind. Unto Him be glory unto ages of ages. Amen."
Verses from Matins of the Feast of the Nativity of Christ
Sunday December 23, 2018, Sunday before the Nativity of Christ
Christ is born! Glorify Him!
This Week's Services and Event
December 24, Monday, Eve of the Nativity of Christ
+ Royal Hours, 9:00AM
+ Vesperal Liturgy, 6:00PM, followed by singing Christmas Carols
December 25, Tuesday, The Nativity of Christ
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by singing Christmas Carols
December 29, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
December 30, Sunday, Sunday after the Nativity of Christ
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Nativity Services
We will celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh with the following services:
Monday, December 24, 9AM- Royal Hours; Vesperal Liturgy, 6PM
Tuesday, December 25, 8:30AM- Matins; 10AM Divine Liturgy
Feasting after Fasting
The Nativity (Advent) fast ends after December 24. There is no fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays, until the eve of Theophany, January 5. Enjoy this season of the celebration of the Incarnation of our Lord with good food, drink, friends and family!
Western Christmas Carols
Although we have a musical tradition for our divine services which does not include what many in the West consider traditional Christmas hymns and carols, many of us still value these songs. Would you like to sing some of them? Following liturgy on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, all who would like to can stay for a short time of singing some of these hymns together.
Fr. Ignatius is Traveling
There will be no office hours, 3rd or 9th Hour Prayers or Akathist during December 26-28 as Fr. Ignatius will be out of town.
Sunday School Break
There will be no Sunday School on December 30 or January 6. We will resume on January 13.
January/February Calendars Available
Printed calendars showing services, fasting days, and other events for the next two months are available in the narthex.
Archdiocese Monthly Magazine, The Word
Did you know that our Archdiocese produces a monthly magazine? You can access this online each month at http://ww1.antiochian.org/theword
The Order of St. Ignatius
Do you know what "The Order" is? It is the philanthropic arm of our Archdiocese, funded by membership fees. The Order funds or partially finds whole departments in our archdiocese such as Missions and Evangelism, Youth Ministry and Internet Ministry. The Order also funds the Retired Clergy Housing Allowance, scholarships for our children to attend church summer camps, married seminarian housing, and grants for missions. We have benefited from the generosity of the Order many times, especially as they have helped fund Fr. Ignatius's required church-related travels when we haven't been able to budget for that, and also through summer camp scholarships for our children. To learn more about this opportunity to serve through giving, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/order
House Blessing Season is Approaching
Fr. Ignatius would like to bless the home of everyone associated with St. Raphael Church during the traditional house blessing season which lasts from the feast of Theophany until the beginning of Lent: this coming year, January 7- March 10. Contact him and set up a time for him to come! We bless our homes because we want God to be a part of every aspect of our lives. There is nothing in our lives, that is unimportant to Him. So, we invite Him to make our homes sacred places, through the house blessing prayers.
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
When the wise men had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the Child and His mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the Child, to destroy Him.” And he rose and took the Child and His mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt have I called My Son.”Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, was in a furious rage, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region, who were two years old or under, according to the time which he had ascertained from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: “A voice was heard in Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be consoled, because they were no more.” But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Rise, take the Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the Child’s life are dead.” And he rose and took the Child and His mother, and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus reigned over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled,“He shall be called a Nazarene.” (Matthew 2:13-23)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath given rise to the light of knowledge in the world; for they that worshipped the stars did learn there from to worship Thee, O Sun of justice, and to know that from the east of the Highest Thou didst come. O Lord, glory to Thee."
Apolytikion of the Nativity of Christ
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
This Week's Services and Event
December 24, Monday, Eve of the Nativity of Christ
+ Royal Hours, 9:00AM
+ Vesperal Liturgy, 6:00PM, followed by singing Christmas Carols
December 25, Tuesday, The Nativity of Christ
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by singing Christmas Carols
December 29, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
December 30, Sunday, Sunday after the Nativity of Christ
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Nativity Services
We will celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh with the following services:
Monday, December 24, 9AM- Royal Hours; Vesperal Liturgy, 6PM
Tuesday, December 25, 8:30AM- Matins; 10AM Divine Liturgy
Feasting after Fasting
The Nativity (Advent) fast ends after December 24. There is no fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays, until the eve of Theophany, January 5. Enjoy this season of the celebration of the Incarnation of our Lord with good food, drink, friends and family!
Western Christmas Carols
Although we have a musical tradition for our divine services which does not include what many in the West consider traditional Christmas hymns and carols, many of us still value these songs. Would you like to sing some of them? Following liturgy on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, all who would like to can stay for a short time of singing some of these hymns together.
Fr. Ignatius is Traveling
There will be no office hours, 3rd or 9th Hour Prayers or Akathist during December 26-28 as Fr. Ignatius will be out of town.
Sunday School Break
There will be no Sunday School on December 30 or January 6. We will resume on January 13.
January/February Calendars Available
Printed calendars showing services, fasting days, and other events for the next two months are available in the narthex.
Archdiocese Monthly Magazine, The Word
Did you know that our Archdiocese produces a monthly magazine? You can access this online each month at http://ww1.antiochian.org/theword
The Order of St. Ignatius
Do you know what "The Order" is? It is the philanthropic arm of our Archdiocese, funded by membership fees. The Order funds or partially finds whole departments in our archdiocese such as Missions and Evangelism, Youth Ministry and Internet Ministry. The Order also funds the Retired Clergy Housing Allowance, scholarships for our children to attend church summer camps, married seminarian housing, and grants for missions. We have benefited from the generosity of the Order many times, especially as they have helped fund Fr. Ignatius's required church-related travels when we haven't been able to budget for that, and also through summer camp scholarships for our children. To learn more about this opportunity to serve through giving, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/order
House Blessing Season is Approaching
Fr. Ignatius would like to bless the home of everyone associated with St. Raphael Church during the traditional house blessing season which lasts from the feast of Theophany until the beginning of Lent: this coming year, January 7- March 10. Contact him and set up a time for him to come! We bless our homes because we want God to be a part of every aspect of our lives. There is nothing in our lives, that is unimportant to Him. So, we invite Him to make our homes sacred places, through the house blessing prayers.
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
When the wise men had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the Child and His mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the Child, to destroy Him.” And he rose and took the Child and His mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt have I called My Son.”Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, was in a furious rage, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region, who were two years old or under, according to the time which he had ascertained from the wise men. Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah: “A voice was heard in Ramah, wailing and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be consoled, because they were no more.” But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Rise, take the Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the Child’s life are dead.” And he rose and took the Child and His mother, and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus reigned over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled,“He shall be called a Nazarene.” (Matthew 2:13-23)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath given rise to the light of knowledge in the world; for they that worshipped the stars did learn there from to worship Thee, O Sun of justice, and to know that from the east of the Highest Thou didst come. O Lord, glory to Thee."
Apolytikion of the Nativity of Christ
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday December 16, 2018, Sunday of the Forefathers of Christ
This Week's Services and Event
December 18, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vespers in Kalona, 7:00PM
December 19, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for St. Ignatius, 6:00PM
December 20, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
December 21, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
December 22, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
December 23, Sunday, Sunday before the Nativity of Christ (Genealogy Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Mathea Ilia-Grigore who graduated from Kirkwood College and is about to start her new job as a licensed dental assistant. May God grant her many years!
Liturgy for St. Ignatius
We will commemorate St. Ignatius of Antioch with a Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on December 19.
Nativity Services
We will celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh with the following services:
Monday, December 24, 9AM- Royal Hours; Vesperal Liturgy, 6PM
Tuesday, December 25, 8:30AM- Matins; 10AM Divine Liturgy
Feasting after Fasting
The Nativity (Advent) fast ends after December 24. There is no fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays, until the eve of Theophany, January 5. Enjoy this season of the celebration of the Incarnation of our Lord with good food, drink, friends and family!
Western Christmas Carols
Although we have a musical tradition for our divine services which does not include what many in the West consider traditional Christmas hymns and carols, many of us still value these songs. Would you like to sing some of them? Following liturgy on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, all who would like to can stay for a short time of singing some of these hymns together.
Nativity Fast, November 15 to December 24
In anticipation of and in preparation for the Great Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we are in the forty day Nativity Fast. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs on all days during this fast and from wine and oil on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fish is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. For various resources on this important time of the church year, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/nativity/pre-feast
It Is Not Too Late To Return a Pledge for 2019
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. If you desire to make a regular financial pledge, it is not too late to do so. Feel free to contact Becky by email (bmorey3156@gmail.com) to let her know what your pledge will be.
Annual Calendars Now Available
We now have 2019 calendars available for you to take home. These calendars show the Scripture readings, saints, liturgical feasts and fasting days and seasons. Take one or more home with you to help you stay connected to our faith.
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading: Matthew 1:1-25
The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Aram, and Aram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David the king. And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa, and Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amon, and Amon the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon. And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, Who is called Christ. So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ were fourteen generations. Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call His Name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and His Name shall be called Emmanuel” (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called His Name Jesus.
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
The Virgin cometh today
To the cave to give birth
Ineffably to bring forth
the Word eternal.
Therefore, rejoice O earth
At the message
With the angels and shepherds give glory to Him
Who shall appear by His own will
As a young Child
He Who is from eternity, God!
Kontakion of the Preparation of the Nativity of Christ
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
December 18, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vespers in Kalona, 7:00PM
December 19, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for St. Ignatius, 6:00PM
December 20, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
December 21, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
December 22, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
December 23, Sunday, Sunday before the Nativity of Christ (Genealogy Sunday)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Mathea Ilia-Grigore who graduated from Kirkwood College and is about to start her new job as a licensed dental assistant. May God grant her many years!
Liturgy for St. Ignatius
We will commemorate St. Ignatius of Antioch with a Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on December 19.
Nativity Services
We will celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh with the following services:
Monday, December 24, 9AM- Royal Hours; Vesperal Liturgy, 6PM
Tuesday, December 25, 8:30AM- Matins; 10AM Divine Liturgy
Feasting after Fasting
The Nativity (Advent) fast ends after December 24. There is no fasting, including on Wednesdays and Fridays, until the eve of Theophany, January 5. Enjoy this season of the celebration of the Incarnation of our Lord with good food, drink, friends and family!
Western Christmas Carols
Although we have a musical tradition for our divine services which does not include what many in the West consider traditional Christmas hymns and carols, many of us still value these songs. Would you like to sing some of them? Following liturgy on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, all who would like to can stay for a short time of singing some of these hymns together.
Nativity Fast, November 15 to December 24
In anticipation of and in preparation for the Great Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we are in the forty day Nativity Fast. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs on all days during this fast and from wine and oil on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fish is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. For various resources on this important time of the church year, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/nativity/pre-feast
It Is Not Too Late To Return a Pledge for 2019
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. If you desire to make a regular financial pledge, it is not too late to do so. Feel free to contact Becky by email (bmorey3156@gmail.com) to let her know what your pledge will be.
Annual Calendars Now Available
We now have 2019 calendars available for you to take home. These calendars show the Scripture readings, saints, liturgical feasts and fasting days and seasons. Take one or more home with you to help you stay connected to our faith.
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a several month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7:00PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading: Matthew 1:1-25
The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Aram, and Aram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David the king. And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa, and Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amon, and Amon the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon. And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, Who is called Christ. So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ were fourteen generations. Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call His Name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and His Name shall be called Emmanuel” (which means, God with us). When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him; he took his wife, but knew her not until she had borne a son; and he called His Name Jesus.
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
The Virgin cometh today
To the cave to give birth
Ineffably to bring forth
the Word eternal.
Therefore, rejoice O earth
At the message
With the angels and shepherds give glory to Him
Who shall appear by His own will
As a young Child
He Who is from eternity, God!
Kontakion of the Preparation of the Nativity of Christ
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday December 9, 2018, Conception of the Theotokos by St. Anna
This Week's Services and Event
December 11, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
December 12, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Nativity Paraklesis, 6:30PM
+ Story of the Bible Discussion Fellowship Meal, 7:30PM
December 13, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
December 14, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
December 15, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
December 16, Sunday, Sunday of the Forefathers of Christ
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Choir Appreciation Sunday
Across our archdiocese today, churches are recognizing the value of their choirs and showing their appreciation for their brothers and sisters in Christ who are so dedicated to lifting up their voices in worshiping the Lord. We are grateful for our choir and especially want to thank our three co-leaders: Lori Branch, Kristi Abuissa and Matthew Arndt. Thank you, and may God grant you many years!
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Joshua Morey who graduated from Iowa Wesleyan University earlier this week with his bachelor's degree. May God grant him many years!
Decorating Church for Nativity
We are accepting donated poinsettias to make our church look festive during this holy season. If you desire to donate, please bring them on Sunday, December 16.
It Is Not Too Late To Return a Pledge for 2019
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. If you desire to make a regular financial pledge, it is not too late to do so. Feel free to contact Becky by email (bmorey3156@gmail.com) to let her know what your pledge will be.
Liturgy for St. Ignatius
We will commemorate St. Ignatius of Antioch with a Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on December 19.
Nativity Services
We will celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh with the following services:
Monday, December 24, 9AM- Royal Hours; Vesperal Liturgy, 6PM
Tuesday, December 25, 8:30AM- Matins; 10AM Divine Liturgy
Annual Calendars Now Available
We now have 2019 calendars available for you to take home. These calendars show the Scripture readings, saints, liturgical feasts and fasting days and seasons. Take one or more home with you to help you stay connected to our faith.
Nativity Fast, November 15-December 24
In anticipation of and in preparation for the Great Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we are in the forty day Nativity Fast. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs on all days during this fast and from wine and oil on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fish is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. For various resources on this important time of the church year, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/nativity/pre-feast
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a multi-month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “A man once gave a great banquet, and invited many; and at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come; for all is now ready.’ But, one by one, they all began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it; I pray you, have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them; I pray you, have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ So the servant came and reported this to his master. Then the householder in anger said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and maimed and blind and lame.’ And the servant said, ‘Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’ And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges, and compel people to come in, that my house maybe filled. For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Luke 14:16-24)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
The following is an excerpt from The Winter Pascha, by Fr. Thomas Hopko
On the ninth of December the Orthodox Church celebrates the feast of the conception of the Virgin Mary by her parents Joachim and Anna. On this major festival which finds its place in the Church's preparation for Christmas, the faithful rejoice in the event by which Mary is conceived in fulfillment of her parents' prayers in order to be formed in the womb, born on the earth, dedicated to the Lord, and nurtured in holiness to become by God's grace the mother of His Son the Messiah.
The Orthodox Church, particularly in the present time, does not call the feast of Mary's beginning the "immaculate conception," although perhaps in ancient times this title would have been fully acceptable. This is not because the Orthodox consider Mary's conception to have been somehow "maculate" or "stained" (macula means "stain" in Latin). It simply means that the Orthodox do not want to support the conviction that God had somehow to intervene at the moment of Mary's conception with a special action to remove the "stain" of the original sin transmitted by the act of human reproduction because, simply put, the Orthodox do not hold that such a "stain" exists.
The Orthodox Church affirms original sin. Orthodox theology teaches that all human beings, including the Virgin Mary who is a "mere human" like the rest of us-- unlike her Son Jesus who is a "real human" but not a "mere human" because He is the incarnate Son and Word of God-- are born into a fallen, death-bound, demon-riddled world whose "form is passing away" (1 Cor 7:31). We are all born mortal and tending toward sin. But we are not born guilty of any personal sin, certainly not one allegedly committed "in Adam." Nor are we born stained because of the manner in which we are conceived by the sexual union of our parents. If sexual union in marriage is in any sense sinful, or the cause in itself of any sinfulness or stain, even in the conditions of the "fallen world," then, as even the rigorous Saint John Chrysostom has taught, God is the sinner because He made us this way, male and female, from the very beginning.
Mary is conceived by her parents as we are all conceived. But in her case it is a pure act of faith and love, in obedience to God's will, as an answer to prayer. In this sense her conception is truly "immaculate." And its fruit is woman who remains forever the most pure Virgin and Mother of God.
Come, let us dance in the spirit!
Let us sing worthy praises to Christ!
Let us celebrate the joy of Joachim and Anna,
The conception of the Mother of our God,
For she is the fruit of the grace of God.
[1] The feast is officially called The Conception of the Theotokos. Mary's nativity is celebrated on September 8. A popular tradition among the Orthodox says that the nine-month period is purposely off by one day to illustrate the "mere humanity" of Mary, unlike the "divine humanity" of her Son, whose conception on the feast of the Annunciation is celebrated on March 25, exactly nine months before His Nativity.
[2] See John Chrysostom, On Titus, homily 2.
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
December 11, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
December 12, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Nativity Paraklesis, 6:30PM
+ Story of the Bible Discussion Fellowship Meal, 7:30PM
December 13, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
December 14, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
December 15, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
December 16, Sunday, Sunday of the Forefathers of Christ
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Choir Appreciation Sunday
Across our archdiocese today, churches are recognizing the value of their choirs and showing their appreciation for their brothers and sisters in Christ who are so dedicated to lifting up their voices in worshiping the Lord. We are grateful for our choir and especially want to thank our three co-leaders: Lori Branch, Kristi Abuissa and Matthew Arndt. Thank you, and may God grant you many years!
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Joshua Morey who graduated from Iowa Wesleyan University earlier this week with his bachelor's degree. May God grant him many years!
Decorating Church for Nativity
We are accepting donated poinsettias to make our church look festive during this holy season. If you desire to donate, please bring them on Sunday, December 16.
It Is Not Too Late To Return a Pledge for 2019
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. If you desire to make a regular financial pledge, it is not too late to do so. Feel free to contact Becky by email (bmorey3156@gmail.com) to let her know what your pledge will be.
Liturgy for St. Ignatius
We will commemorate St. Ignatius of Antioch with a Vesperal Liturgy at 6:00PM on December 19.
Nativity Services
We will celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh with the following services:
Monday, December 24, 9AM- Royal Hours; Vesperal Liturgy, 6PM
Tuesday, December 25, 8:30AM- Matins; 10AM Divine Liturgy
Annual Calendars Now Available
We now have 2019 calendars available for you to take home. These calendars show the Scripture readings, saints, liturgical feasts and fasting days and seasons. Take one or more home with you to help you stay connected to our faith.
Nativity Fast, November 15-December 24
In anticipation of and in preparation for the Great Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we are in the forty day Nativity Fast. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs on all days during this fast and from wine and oil on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fish is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. For various resources on this important time of the church year, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/nativity/pre-feast
Father Alexander Men Lecture
To kick-off a multi-month long weekly book study on prayer, Lori Branch will be giving a lecture at the Iowa City Public Library (meeting Room A) at 7PM on Wednesday, January 23. The title is "Father Alexander Men: Scholar, Priest, Martyr- Russian Spiritual Wisdom for Modern Life." On following Wednesday evenings at St. Raphael Church, we will be meeting and discussing Fr. Alexander Men's book, "An Inner Step Toward God," a collection of his writings and talks on prayer. Copies of the book are available for purchase at the church bookstore for $16. If you can't pay the full price, pay whatever you can. A donor is willing to cover the rest. As the time to this event gets closer, we will rely on our members to help publicize it and to also provide refreshments to be served that evening. More information, and a full schedule of the entire discussion series can be found at https://www.raphaelchurch.org/come--learn.html Share this link with your friends!
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “A man once gave a great banquet, and invited many; and at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come; for all is now ready.’ But, one by one, they all began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it; I pray you, have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them; I pray you, have me excused.’ And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ So the servant came and reported this to his master. Then the householder in anger said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and maimed and blind and lame.’ And the servant said, ‘Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’ And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges, and compel people to come in, that my house maybe filled. For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Luke 14:16-24)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
The following is an excerpt from The Winter Pascha, by Fr. Thomas Hopko
On the ninth of December the Orthodox Church celebrates the feast of the conception of the Virgin Mary by her parents Joachim and Anna. On this major festival which finds its place in the Church's preparation for Christmas, the faithful rejoice in the event by which Mary is conceived in fulfillment of her parents' prayers in order to be formed in the womb, born on the earth, dedicated to the Lord, and nurtured in holiness to become by God's grace the mother of His Son the Messiah.
The Orthodox Church, particularly in the present time, does not call the feast of Mary's beginning the "immaculate conception," although perhaps in ancient times this title would have been fully acceptable. This is not because the Orthodox consider Mary's conception to have been somehow "maculate" or "stained" (macula means "stain" in Latin). It simply means that the Orthodox do not want to support the conviction that God had somehow to intervene at the moment of Mary's conception with a special action to remove the "stain" of the original sin transmitted by the act of human reproduction because, simply put, the Orthodox do not hold that such a "stain" exists.
The Orthodox Church affirms original sin. Orthodox theology teaches that all human beings, including the Virgin Mary who is a "mere human" like the rest of us-- unlike her Son Jesus who is a "real human" but not a "mere human" because He is the incarnate Son and Word of God-- are born into a fallen, death-bound, demon-riddled world whose "form is passing away" (1 Cor 7:31). We are all born mortal and tending toward sin. But we are not born guilty of any personal sin, certainly not one allegedly committed "in Adam." Nor are we born stained because of the manner in which we are conceived by the sexual union of our parents. If sexual union in marriage is in any sense sinful, or the cause in itself of any sinfulness or stain, even in the conditions of the "fallen world," then, as even the rigorous Saint John Chrysostom has taught, God is the sinner because He made us this way, male and female, from the very beginning.
Mary is conceived by her parents as we are all conceived. But in her case it is a pure act of faith and love, in obedience to God's will, as an answer to prayer. In this sense her conception is truly "immaculate." And its fruit is woman who remains forever the most pure Virgin and Mother of God.
Come, let us dance in the spirit!
Let us sing worthy praises to Christ!
Let us celebrate the joy of Joachim and Anna,
The conception of the Mother of our God,
For she is the fruit of the grace of God.
[1] The feast is officially called The Conception of the Theotokos. Mary's nativity is celebrated on September 8. A popular tradition among the Orthodox says that the nine-month period is purposely off by one day to illustrate the "mere humanity" of Mary, unlike the "divine humanity" of her Son, whose conception on the feast of the Annunciation is celebrated on March 25, exactly nine months before His Nativity.
[2] See John Chrysostom, On Titus, homily 2.
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday December 2, 2018, 27th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Event
December 4, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
December 5, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vespers for St. Nicholas, 6:30PM
+ Story of the Bible Discussion, “Last Things", I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22, 7:30PM
December 6, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Dinner, 7:00PM at Abuissas
December 7, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
December 8, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
December 9, Sunday, Conception of the Theotokos by St. Anna
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour, Sunday School and Annual Voters' Meeting
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Annual Voters' Meeting Results
We elected both Brian Horak and Karen Kuntz to three year terms on the council. We unanimously approved our budget. Thank you to all who stayed and participated.
Thank You
Thank you to Becky Morey for several faithful years serving on our parish council and especially for her work in the important and time-consuming role as treasurer.
It Is Not Too Late To Return a Pledge for 2019
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. If you desire to make a regular financial pledge, it is not too late to do so. Feel free to contact Becky by email (bmorey3156@gmail.com) to let her know what your pledge will be.
Annual Calendars Now Available
We now have 2019 calendars available for you to take home. These calendars show the Scripture readings, saints, liturgical feasts and fasting days and seasons. Take one or more home with you to help you stay connected to our faith.
St. Nicholas Vespers December 5
Come and commemorate St. Nicholas the Wonderworker with vespers at 6:30PM on Wednesday, December 5, and stay for the Bible Discussion at 7:30!
St. Nicholas Day in Pella
Fr. Bartholomew Wojcik and the faithful of St. Nicholas Church in Pella, Iowa, invite you to join them in celebrating their patron saint with Divine Liturgy at 9:30AM on December 6. In the spirit of St. Nicholas, they ask that at least one non-perishable food item be brought for a donation to the Pella Food Shelf.
Nativity Services
We will celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh with the following services:
Monday, December 24, 9AM- Royal Hours; Vesperal Liturgy, 6PM
Tuesday, December 25, 8:30AM- Matins; 10AM Divine Liturgy
Decorating Church for Nativity
We are accepting donated poinsettias to make our church look festive during this holy season. If you desire to donate, please bring them on Sunday, December 16.
Accepting Donations of Olive Oil and for Communion Wine
From time to time, our supply of olive oil which keeps our many oil lamps burning before the icons of the church, gets low. Now is one of those times. The best olive oil for burning, we have found, is not extra virgin olive oil, but the lower grade, but still 100% pure olive oil. Please consider donating some olive oil to the church during this upcoming Nativity season. Also, we will need to be purchasing communion wine in the near future. A case of 12 bottles is about $120. If you would like to donate toward this purchase, please clearly mark that gift "communion wine" so that your donation can be properly used.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Nativity Fast, November 15-December 24
In anticipation of and in preparation for the Great Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have entered into the forty day Nativity Fast. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs on all days during this fast and from wine and oil on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fish is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. For various resources on this important time of the church year, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/nativity/pre-feast
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. And there was a woman who had had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years; she was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. And when Jesus saw her, He called her and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.” And He laid His hands upon her, and immediately she was made straight, and she praised God. But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day.” Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrite! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger, and lead it away to water it? And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” As Jesus said this, all His adversaries were put to shame; and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by Him. (Luke 13:10-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
The Christian today—not unlike Christians of other eras, but in ways that are continually “updated” as society carries on—is not told simply that he mustn’t fight the passions, that he mustn’t battle the devil: he is told that the passions are unreal, that the devil does not exist. He is told that ascesis is unnatural, that spiritual warfare is delusional. He is told that judgment is oppressive and the desire to become something defined by another (even God!) is psychologically unhealthy. He is told that to believe in the Church’s tradition is a simplistic, pietistic adherence to the past; that he had better “think for himself.”
-Bishop Irenei Steenberg, The Beginnings of a Life of Prayer, p. 20
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
December 4, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
December 5, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vespers for St. Nicholas, 6:30PM
+ Story of the Bible Discussion, “Last Things", I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22, 7:30PM
December 6, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Dinner, 7:00PM at Abuissas
December 7, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
December 8, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
December 9, Sunday, Conception of the Theotokos by St. Anna
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour, Sunday School and Annual Voters' Meeting
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Annual Voters' Meeting Results
We elected both Brian Horak and Karen Kuntz to three year terms on the council. We unanimously approved our budget. Thank you to all who stayed and participated.
Thank You
Thank you to Becky Morey for several faithful years serving on our parish council and especially for her work in the important and time-consuming role as treasurer.
It Is Not Too Late To Return a Pledge for 2019
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. If you desire to make a regular financial pledge, it is not too late to do so. Feel free to contact Becky by email (bmorey3156@gmail.com) to let her know what your pledge will be.
Annual Calendars Now Available
We now have 2019 calendars available for you to take home. These calendars show the Scripture readings, saints, liturgical feasts and fasting days and seasons. Take one or more home with you to help you stay connected to our faith.
St. Nicholas Vespers December 5
Come and commemorate St. Nicholas the Wonderworker with vespers at 6:30PM on Wednesday, December 5, and stay for the Bible Discussion at 7:30!
St. Nicholas Day in Pella
Fr. Bartholomew Wojcik and the faithful of St. Nicholas Church in Pella, Iowa, invite you to join them in celebrating their patron saint with Divine Liturgy at 9:30AM on December 6. In the spirit of St. Nicholas, they ask that at least one non-perishable food item be brought for a donation to the Pella Food Shelf.
Nativity Services
We will celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in the flesh with the following services:
Monday, December 24, 9AM- Royal Hours; Vesperal Liturgy, 6PM
Tuesday, December 25, 8:30AM- Matins; 10AM Divine Liturgy
Decorating Church for Nativity
We are accepting donated poinsettias to make our church look festive during this holy season. If you desire to donate, please bring them on Sunday, December 16.
Accepting Donations of Olive Oil and for Communion Wine
From time to time, our supply of olive oil which keeps our many oil lamps burning before the icons of the church, gets low. Now is one of those times. The best olive oil for burning, we have found, is not extra virgin olive oil, but the lower grade, but still 100% pure olive oil. Please consider donating some olive oil to the church during this upcoming Nativity season. Also, we will need to be purchasing communion wine in the near future. A case of 12 bottles is about $120. If you would like to donate toward this purchase, please clearly mark that gift "communion wine" so that your donation can be properly used.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Nativity Fast, November 15-December 24
In anticipation of and in preparation for the Great Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have entered into the forty day Nativity Fast. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs on all days during this fast and from wine and oil on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fish is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. For various resources on this important time of the church year, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/nativity/pre-feast
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. And there was a woman who had had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years; she was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. And when Jesus saw her, He called her and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.” And He laid His hands upon her, and immediately she was made straight, and she praised God. But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day.” Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrite! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger, and lead it away to water it? And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” As Jesus said this, all His adversaries were put to shame; and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by Him. (Luke 13:10-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
The Christian today—not unlike Christians of other eras, but in ways that are continually “updated” as society carries on—is not told simply that he mustn’t fight the passions, that he mustn’t battle the devil: he is told that the passions are unreal, that the devil does not exist. He is told that ascesis is unnatural, that spiritual warfare is delusional. He is told that judgment is oppressive and the desire to become something defined by another (even God!) is psychologically unhealthy. He is told that to believe in the Church’s tradition is a simplistic, pietistic adherence to the past; that he had better “think for himself.”
-Bishop Irenei Steenberg, The Beginnings of a Life of Prayer, p. 20
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday November 25, 2018
Leavetaking of the Entrance of the Theotokos in the Temple
This Week's Services and Events
November 27, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
November 28, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Story of the Bible discussion, “The Birth of the Church: Love, First and Last” Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13, 7:30PM
November 29, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Compline and Discussion, 7:00PM at IMU
November 30, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
December 1, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
December 2, Sunday, 27th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour, Sunday School and Annual Voters' Meeting
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Andrei Buchkin and Tania Buchkina who were both baptized yesterday. Their godparents are Irakli and Katie Tsilosani. May God grant them many years!
Memory Eternal
Memorial flowers were placed in the church today to mark the three year anniversary of Doina Johnson's dear departed husband Lauren. Memory eternal!
Annual Pledge Packets Need Be Returned ASAP!
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process of being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer ASAP. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge. If you haven't received a packet and would like to, pick up a copy in the narthex at church, or speak with Fr. Ignatius or our treasurer Becky Morey. At this point, feel free to contact Becky by email (bmorey3156@gmail.com) to let her know what your pledge will be.
Annual Voters' Meeting December 2
All hands on deck! Please plan to stay after liturgy on December 2 to participate in our annual voters' meeting during which we will fill two parish council positions by election and also discuss and pass our annual budget.
Annual Calendars Now Available
We now have 2019 calendars available for you to take home. These calendars show the Scripture readings, saints, liturgical feasts and fasting days and seasons. Take one or more home with you to help you stay connected to our faith.
Nativity Fast, November 15-December 24
In anticipation of and in preparation for the Great Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have entered into the forty day Nativity Fast. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs on all days during this fast and from wine and oil on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fish is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. For various resources on this important time of the church year, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/nativity/pre-feast
St. Nicholas Vespers December 5
Come and commemorate St. Nicholas the Wonderowrker with vespers at 6:30PM on Wednesday, December 5, and stay for the Bible Discussion at 7:30!
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Accepting Donations of Olive Oil and for Communion Wine
From time to time, our supply of olive oil which keeps our many oil lamps burning before the icons of the church, gets low. Now is one of those times. The best olive oil for burning, we have found, is not extra virgin olive oil, but the lower grade, but still 100% pure olive oil. Please consider donating some olive oil to the church during this upcoming Nativity season. Also, we will need to be purchasing communion wine in the near future. A case of 12 bottles is about $120. If you would like to donate toward this purchase, please clearly mark that gift "communion wine" so that your donation can be properly used.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, when 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 ofNazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those whowere 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 receivemy sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, 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 and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
“When I am angry with my brother, or angry with circumstances (or angry even with God), if I will turn my gaze inward and ask myself, my conscience, why this might be happening, what truth is being revealed (and isn’t there always at least a grain of truth in whatever my brother is accusing me of?); and ask where is my sin in it (with certainty that it is there), and where am I to blame?—it actually removes the sting of my burning passion and pacifies the wound that I accused my brother of making. It’s the first step toward genuine peace.”
Abbess Michaila of St. Paisius Monastery, Safford, AZ
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
November 27, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
November 28, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ Story of the Bible discussion, “The Birth of the Church: Love, First and Last” Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13, 7:30PM
November 29, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Compline and Discussion, 7:00PM at IMU
November 30, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
December 1, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
December 2, Sunday, 27th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour, Sunday School and Annual Voters' Meeting
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Andrei Buchkin and Tania Buchkina who were both baptized yesterday. Their godparents are Irakli and Katie Tsilosani. May God grant them many years!
Memory Eternal
Memorial flowers were placed in the church today to mark the three year anniversary of Doina Johnson's dear departed husband Lauren. Memory eternal!
Annual Pledge Packets Need Be Returned ASAP!
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process of being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer ASAP. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge. If you haven't received a packet and would like to, pick up a copy in the narthex at church, or speak with Fr. Ignatius or our treasurer Becky Morey. At this point, feel free to contact Becky by email (bmorey3156@gmail.com) to let her know what your pledge will be.
Annual Voters' Meeting December 2
All hands on deck! Please plan to stay after liturgy on December 2 to participate in our annual voters' meeting during which we will fill two parish council positions by election and also discuss and pass our annual budget.
Annual Calendars Now Available
We now have 2019 calendars available for you to take home. These calendars show the Scripture readings, saints, liturgical feasts and fasting days and seasons. Take one or more home with you to help you stay connected to our faith.
Nativity Fast, November 15-December 24
In anticipation of and in preparation for the Great Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have entered into the forty day Nativity Fast. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs on all days during this fast and from wine and oil on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fish is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. For various resources on this important time of the church year, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/nativity/pre-feast
St. Nicholas Vespers December 5
Come and commemorate St. Nicholas the Wonderowrker with vespers at 6:30PM on Wednesday, December 5, and stay for the Bible Discussion at 7:30!
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Accepting Donations of Olive Oil and for Communion Wine
From time to time, our supply of olive oil which keeps our many oil lamps burning before the icons of the church, gets low. Now is one of those times. The best olive oil for burning, we have found, is not extra virgin olive oil, but the lower grade, but still 100% pure olive oil. Please consider donating some olive oil to the church during this upcoming Nativity season. Also, we will need to be purchasing communion wine in the near future. A case of 12 bottles is about $120. If you would like to donate toward this purchase, please clearly mark that gift "communion wine" so that your donation can be properly used.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, when 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 ofNazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those whowere 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 receivemy sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, 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 and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
“When I am angry with my brother, or angry with circumstances (or angry even with God), if I will turn my gaze inward and ask myself, my conscience, why this might be happening, what truth is being revealed (and isn’t there always at least a grain of truth in whatever my brother is accusing me of?); and ask where is my sin in it (with certainty that it is there), and where am I to blame?—it actually removes the sting of my burning passion and pacifies the wound that I accused my brother of making. It’s the first step toward genuine peace.”
Abbess Michaila of St. Paisius Monastery, Safford, AZ
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday November 18, 2018, 25th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
November 24, Saturday
+ Buchkin Baptisms, 10:30AM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
November 25, Sunday, Leave-taking of the Entrance of the Theotokos in the Temple
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School & Parish Council Meeting
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Memory Eternal!
We were saddened to learn of the recent repose of Fr. Stephen Rhudy, who served as pastor of St. Raphael Church from 2004-2006. May his memory be eternal! Memorial Prayers for the Departed were offered for him and his wife, Kh. Jedonne, at the end of liturgy this morning.
Advent Message from Metropolitan Joseph
See the attached document to read His Eminence Metropolitan Joseph's Advent message.
Annual Pledge Packets Need to Be Returned ASAP!
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process of being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer ASAP. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge. If you haven't received a packet and would like to, pick up a copy in the narthex at church, or speak with Fr. Ignatius or our treasurer Becky Morey. At this point, feel free to contact Becky by email (bmorey3156@gmail.com) to let her know what your pledge will be.
Fr. Ignatius Is Traveling
Fr. Ignatius will be out of town from November 19-23. There will be no services or office hours during the week. He can be reached on his cell phone.
Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos to the Temple
On November 21, we celebrate the Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos to the Temple, one of the twelve major feasts of the liturgical year. Although we won't be holding services because Fr. Ignatius will be out of town, you can learn more about this feast and it's themes a this link: http://ww1.antiochian.org/feast-entrance-theotokos
Nativity Fast, November 15-December 24
In anticipation of and in preparation for the Great Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have now entered into the forty day Nativity Fast. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs on all days during this fast and from wine and oil on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fish is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. For various resources on this important time of the church year, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/nativity/pre-feast
Happy Thanksgiving !
O give thanks unto the Lord for He is good, for His mercy endures forever. - Psalm 135:1
Annual Voters' Meeting December 2
All hands on deck! Please plan to stay after liturgy on December 2 to participate in our annual voters' meeting during which we will fill two parish council positions by election and also discuss and pass our annual budget.
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Accepting Donations of Olive Oil and for Communion Wine
From time to time, our supply of olive oil which keeps our many oil lamps burning before the icons of the church, gets low. Now is one of those times. The best olive oil for burning, we have found, is not extra virgin olive oil, but the lower grade, but still 100% pure olive oil. Please consider donating some olive oil to the church during this upcoming Nativity season. Also, we will need to be purchasing communion wine in the near future. A case of 12 bottles is about $120. If you would like to donate toward this purchase, please clearly mark that gift "communion wine" so that your donation can be properly used.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, a man came testing Jesus and asking, “Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery. Do not kill. Do not steal. Do not bear false witness. Honor your father and mother.’” And the man said, “All these I have observed from my youth.” And when Jesus heard it, he said to him, “One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the man heard this he became sad, for he was very rich. Jesus, seeing him sad, said, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God! For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” Those who heard it said, “Then who can be saved?” Jesus said, “What is impossible with men is possible with God.” (Luke 18:18-27)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
As the earth causes its flower to grow, and as a garden its seeds, so shall the Lord cause righteousness to rise up, and exceeding joy before all the Gentiles.
Isaiah 61:11
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
November 24, Saturday
+ Buchkin Baptisms, 10:30AM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
November 25, Sunday, Leave-taking of the Entrance of the Theotokos in the Temple
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School & Parish Council Meeting
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Memory Eternal!
We were saddened to learn of the recent repose of Fr. Stephen Rhudy, who served as pastor of St. Raphael Church from 2004-2006. May his memory be eternal! Memorial Prayers for the Departed were offered for him and his wife, Kh. Jedonne, at the end of liturgy this morning.
Advent Message from Metropolitan Joseph
See the attached document to read His Eminence Metropolitan Joseph's Advent message.
Annual Pledge Packets Need to Be Returned ASAP!
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process of being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer ASAP. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge. If you haven't received a packet and would like to, pick up a copy in the narthex at church, or speak with Fr. Ignatius or our treasurer Becky Morey. At this point, feel free to contact Becky by email (bmorey3156@gmail.com) to let her know what your pledge will be.
Fr. Ignatius Is Traveling
Fr. Ignatius will be out of town from November 19-23. There will be no services or office hours during the week. He can be reached on his cell phone.
Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos to the Temple
On November 21, we celebrate the Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos to the Temple, one of the twelve major feasts of the liturgical year. Although we won't be holding services because Fr. Ignatius will be out of town, you can learn more about this feast and it's themes a this link: http://ww1.antiochian.org/feast-entrance-theotokos
Nativity Fast, November 15-December 24
In anticipation of and in preparation for the Great Feast of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we have now entered into the forty day Nativity Fast. We abstain from meat, dairy and eggs on all days during this fast and from wine and oil on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Fish is allowed on Saturdays and Sundays. For various resources on this important time of the church year, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/nativity/pre-feast
Happy Thanksgiving !
O give thanks unto the Lord for He is good, for His mercy endures forever. - Psalm 135:1
Annual Voters' Meeting December 2
All hands on deck! Please plan to stay after liturgy on December 2 to participate in our annual voters' meeting during which we will fill two parish council positions by election and also discuss and pass our annual budget.
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Accepting Donations of Olive Oil and for Communion Wine
From time to time, our supply of olive oil which keeps our many oil lamps burning before the icons of the church, gets low. Now is one of those times. The best olive oil for burning, we have found, is not extra virgin olive oil, but the lower grade, but still 100% pure olive oil. Please consider donating some olive oil to the church during this upcoming Nativity season. Also, we will need to be purchasing communion wine in the near future. A case of 12 bottles is about $120. If you would like to donate toward this purchase, please clearly mark that gift "communion wine" so that your donation can be properly used.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallmp.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallmp@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, a man came testing Jesus and asking, “Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery. Do not kill. Do not steal. Do not bear false witness. Honor your father and mother.’” And the man said, “All these I have observed from my youth.” And when Jesus heard it, he said to him, “One thing you still lack. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the man heard this he became sad, for he was very rich. Jesus, seeing him sad, said, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God! For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” Those who heard it said, “Then who can be saved?” Jesus said, “What is impossible with men is possible with God.” (Luke 18:18-27)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
As the earth causes its flower to grow, and as a garden its seeds, so shall the Lord cause righteousness to rise up, and exceeding joy before all the Gentiles.
Isaiah 61:11
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday November 11, 2018, Martyr Menas of Egypt
This Week's Services and Events
November 13, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
November 14, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ Bible Discussion: "The Heart of Jesus's Teachings (Matthew 5-7)," 7:30PM
November 15, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
November 16, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
November 17, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
November 18, Sunday, 25th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Annual Pledge Packets Need to Be Returned By Next Sunday!
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process of being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer no later than November 18. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge. If you haven't received a packet and would like to, pick up a copy in the narthex at church, or speak with Fr. Ignatius or our treasurer Becky Morey.
New Icon Shrine By Choir Risers
Thanks to Christian Morey, we now have a beautiful walnut icon shrine to house an icon of the great hymnographer St. John of Damascus, near the choir risers at the back of the church.
Music on Our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Accepting Donations of Olive Oil and for Communion Wine
From time to time, our supply of olive oil which keeps our many oil lamps burning before the icons of the church, gets low. Now is one of those times. The best olive oil for burning, we have found, is not extra virgin olive oil, but the lower grade, but still 100% pure olive oil. Please consider donating some olive oil to the church during this upcoming Nativity season. Also, we will need to be purchasing communion wine in the near future. A case of 12 bottles is about $120. If you would like to donate toward this purchase, please clearly mark that gift "communion wine" so that your donation can be properly used.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Shelter House's Foodie Fundraiser
Foodies Fighting Homelessness will be held Wednesday, November 14, at 6 p.m. Prices start at $20 per person and include a 3-course meal with one wine or beer pairing. All proceeds will directly benefit Shelter House's mission to provide safe shelter and help people in Iowa City and surrounding areas improve the quality of their lives as they move beyond homelessness. For more information, go to bit.ly/shelterhousefoodies online.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at
foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “The land of a rich man brought forth plentifully; and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns, and build larger ones; and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you; and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” As He said this, Jesus called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Luke 12:16-21)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
I have lifted up my eyes to the mountain, whence my help will come.
My help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
Let not your foot waver, and He who guards you will not slumber.
Behold, He who guards Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord will protect you; the Lord will shield you with His right hand.
The sun will not scorch you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will defend you against every evil; the Lord will protect your soul.
The Lord will guard your coming and going, now and forevermore.
Psalm 120
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
November 13, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
November 14, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ Bible Discussion: "The Heart of Jesus's Teachings (Matthew 5-7)," 7:30PM
November 15, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
November 16, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
November 17, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
November 18, Sunday, 25th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Annual Pledge Packets Need to Be Returned By Next Sunday!
The Parish Council has distributed packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process of being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer no later than November 18. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge. If you haven't received a packet and would like to, pick up a copy in the narthex at church, or speak with Fr. Ignatius or our treasurer Becky Morey.
New Icon Shrine By Choir Risers
Thanks to Christian Morey, we now have a beautiful walnut icon shrine to house an icon of the great hymnographer St. John of Damascus, near the choir risers at the back of the church.
Music on Our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Accepting Donations of Olive Oil and for Communion Wine
From time to time, our supply of olive oil which keeps our many oil lamps burning before the icons of the church, gets low. Now is one of those times. The best olive oil for burning, we have found, is not extra virgin olive oil, but the lower grade, but still 100% pure olive oil. Please consider donating some olive oil to the church during this upcoming Nativity season. Also, we will need to be purchasing communion wine in the near future. A case of 12 bottles is about $120. If you would like to donate toward this purchase, please clearly mark that gift "communion wine" so that your donation can be properly used.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
St. Raphael Pantry Volunteers Needed
Our church’s food pantry will be open during any service when there’s a person willing to assist visitors to the pantry. It will also be open during Father’s office hours whenever possible. If you're interested in assisting pantry visitors during services or want more information on our pantry, please email Amy Spencer at sroc.info@gmail.com or call her at 319-656-3916. Or go here on our website: https://www.raphaelchurch.org/our-food-pantry.html
Shelter House's Foodie Fundraiser
Foodies Fighting Homelessness will be held Wednesday, November 14, at 6 p.m. Prices start at $20 per person and include a 3-course meal with one wine or beer pairing. All proceeds will directly benefit Shelter House's mission to provide safe shelter and help people in Iowa City and surrounding areas improve the quality of their lives as they move beyond homelessness. For more information, go to bit.ly/shelterhousefoodies online.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at
foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “The land of a rich man brought forth plentifully; and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns, and build larger ones; and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you; and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” As He said this, Jesus called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Luke 12:16-21)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
I have lifted up my eyes to the mountain, whence my help will come.
My help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
Let not your foot waver, and He who guards you will not slumber.
Behold, He who guards Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord will protect you; the Lord will shield you with His right hand.
The sun will not scorch you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will defend you against every evil; the Lord will protect your soul.
The Lord will guard your coming and going, now and forevermore.
Psalm 120
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday November 4, 2018, 23rd Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
November 6, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
November 7, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ Bible Discussion- "He is Not Here, He is Arisen (Mark 9-16)", 7:30PM
November 8, Thursday
+ OCF Compline and Discussion, 7:00PM
November 10, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
November 11, Sunday, Martyr Menas of Egypt
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
November/December Calendars
The calendars showing the next two months of services and other events are printed and available for pick up in the narthex.
Annual Pledge Packets Are Available!
The Parish Council is distributing packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process of being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer no later than November 18. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge. If you haven't received a packet and would like to, pick up a copy in the narthex at church, or speak with Fr. Ignatius or our treasurer Becky Morey.
Stewardship Sermon Series
Fr. Ignatius recently began a sermon series focusing on aspects of Christian stewardship today. In this four week series, he is taking the appointed Scriptural texts and teach about what it means to be a good steward and how we can take steps to actualize this in our lives.
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Stewardship Retreat is Postponed
Due to some health challenges that our presenter Archdeacon Saed Rihani has been experiencing, we will not be having our retreat on Christian Stewardship on November 17. If he is feeling better, Archdeacon Saed would like to return in the Spring to give the retreat.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, a lawyer stood up to put Jesus to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “What is written in the Law? How do you read?” And the lawyer answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” And Jesus said to him, “You have answered right; do this, and you will live.” But the lawyer, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion, and went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; then he set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ Which of these three, do you think, proved neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” The lawyer said, “The one who showed mercy on him.” And Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” (Luke 10:25-37)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"O Lord, Who art in all creation, whither shall we sinners flee from Thee? To heaven? For Thou dwellest there; or to Hades? For there Thou art the Trampler over death, or to the depths of the sea? For there is Thy hand, O Master. In Thee, therefore, seek we refuge, and Thee do we worship beseechingly; O Thou who didst rise from the dead, have mercy upon us."
Troparion from "O Lord I have Cried," Tone 6
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
November 6, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
November 7, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ Bible Discussion- "He is Not Here, He is Arisen (Mark 9-16)", 7:30PM
November 8, Thursday
+ OCF Compline and Discussion, 7:00PM
November 10, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
November 11, Sunday, Martyr Menas of Egypt
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
November/December Calendars
The calendars showing the next two months of services and other events are printed and available for pick up in the narthex.
Annual Pledge Packets Are Available!
The Parish Council is distributing packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process of being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer no later than November 18. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge. If you haven't received a packet and would like to, pick up a copy in the narthex at church, or speak with Fr. Ignatius or our treasurer Becky Morey.
Stewardship Sermon Series
Fr. Ignatius recently began a sermon series focusing on aspects of Christian stewardship today. In this four week series, he is taking the appointed Scriptural texts and teach about what it means to be a good steward and how we can take steps to actualize this in our lives.
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Stewardship Retreat is Postponed
Due to some health challenges that our presenter Archdeacon Saed Rihani has been experiencing, we will not be having our retreat on Christian Stewardship on November 17. If he is feeling better, Archdeacon Saed would like to return in the Spring to give the retreat.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, a lawyer stood up to put Jesus to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “What is written in the Law? How do you read?” And the lawyer answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” And Jesus said to him, “You have answered right; do this, and you will live.” But the lawyer, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion, and went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; then he set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ Which of these three, do you think, proved neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” The lawyer said, “The one who showed mercy on him.” And Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” (Luke 10:25-37)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"O Lord, Who art in all creation, whither shall we sinners flee from Thee? To heaven? For Thou dwellest there; or to Hades? For there Thou art the Trampler over death, or to the depths of the sea? For there is Thy hand, O Master. In Thee, therefore, seek we refuge, and Thee do we worship beseechingly; O Thou who didst rise from the dead, have mercy upon us."
Troparion from "O Lord I have Cried," Tone 6
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday October 28, 2018, 22nd Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
October 30, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 31, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
November 1, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Dinner, 7:00PM
November 2, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Great Vespers with Lita and Artoklasia, 7:00PM
November 3, Saturday
+ Matins, 8:30AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
November 4, Sunday, 23rd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
November/December Calendars
The calendars showing the next two months of services and other events are printed and available for pick up in the narthex.
Annual Pledge Packets Are Available!
The Parish Council is distributing packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process of being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer no later than November 18. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge. If you haven't received a packet and would like to, pick up a copy in the narthex at church, or speak with Fr. Ignatius or our treasurer Becky Morey.
Stewardship Sermon Series
Fr. Ignatius began a sermon series focusing on aspects of Christian stewardship today. In this four week series, he will take the appointed Scriptural texts and teach about what it means to be a good steward and how we can take steps to actualize this in our lives.
St. Raphael Feast Day Services
We will celebrate our patron saint with Vespers (with Litia and Artoklasia) at 7:00PM on Friday, November 2 and matins and Divine Liturgy at 8:30AM and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 3. Come and give thanks to God for St. Raphael and his patronage for us!
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Daylight Savings Time
Daylight Savings Time ends early on the morning of Sunday, November 4. Remember to "fall back" so that you are not late to church!
Stewardship Retreat is Postponed
Due to some health challenges that our presenter Archdeacon Saed Rihani has been experiencing, we will not be having our retreat on Christian Stewardship on November 17. If he is feeling better, Archdeacon Saed would like to return in the Spring to give the retreat.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table; moreover, the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried; and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes, and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus in his bosom. And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy upon me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in anguish in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.’ And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.’ But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.’” (Luke 16:19-31)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Jesus has nowadays many followers desirous of consolation, but few of tribulation. All desire to rejoice with Him, few are willing to endure anything for Him. Many reverence His miracles, few follow the ignominy of His cross."
St. Sebastian (Dabovich), of Jackson and San Francisco
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
October 30, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 31, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
November 1, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Dinner, 7:00PM
November 2, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Great Vespers with Lita and Artoklasia, 7:00PM
November 3, Saturday
+ Matins, 8:30AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
November 4, Sunday, 23rd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
November/December Calendars
The calendars showing the next two months of services and other events are printed and available for pick up in the narthex.
Annual Pledge Packets Are Available!
The Parish Council is distributing packets of information to everyone, regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process of being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer no later than November 18. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge. If you haven't received a packet and would like to, pick up a copy in the narthex at church, or speak with Fr. Ignatius or our treasurer Becky Morey.
Stewardship Sermon Series
Fr. Ignatius began a sermon series focusing on aspects of Christian stewardship today. In this four week series, he will take the appointed Scriptural texts and teach about what it means to be a good steward and how we can take steps to actualize this in our lives.
St. Raphael Feast Day Services
We will celebrate our patron saint with Vespers (with Litia and Artoklasia) at 7:00PM on Friday, November 2 and matins and Divine Liturgy at 8:30AM and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 3. Come and give thanks to God for St. Raphael and his patronage for us!
Music on our Website
We now have a spot for listening to music on the first page of our website -- www.raphaelchurch.org. We'd like to change the music from time to time, so if you have a favorite Orthodox hymn that you'd like to share, send a good mp3 copy to Amy at sroc.info@gmail.com.
Daylight Savings Time
Daylight Savings Time ends early on the morning of Sunday, November 4. Remember to "fall back" so that you are not late to church!
Stewardship Retreat is Postponed
Due to some health challenges that our presenter Archdeacon Saed Rihani has been experiencing, we will not be having our retreat on Christian Stewardship on November 17. If he is feeling better, Archdeacon Saed would like to return in the Spring to give the retreat.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table; moreover, the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried; and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes, and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus in his bosom. And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy upon me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in anguish in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.’ And he said, ‘Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.’ But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.’” (Luke 16:19-31)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Jesus has nowadays many followers desirous of consolation, but few of tribulation. All desire to rejoice with Him, few are willing to endure anything for Him. Many reverence His miracles, few follow the ignominy of His cross."
St. Sebastian (Dabovich), of Jackson and San Francisco
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday October 21, 2018, 21st Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
October 23, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 24, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "Jesus: In the Beginning was the Word; Who do you say that I am? (John 1:1-14, Mark 1-8)" , 7:30PM
October 25, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 26, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
October 27, Saturday
+ Parish Clean-up Day, 12:00PM-4:00PM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 28, Sunday, 22nd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day, October 27
It's time to do a more thorough cleaning of our lovely church building and grounds. Please come and lend a hand on Saturday, October 27 from 12:00PM-4:00PM. Chores needing to be done include metal polishing, vacuuming, leaf raking, and more!
Annual Pledge Packets Are Coming!
Next Sunday, October 28, the Parish Council intends to distribute packets of information for everyone regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process in being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer no later than November 18. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge.
St. Raphael Feast Day Services
We will celebrate our patron saint with Vespers (with Litia and Artoklasia) at 7:00PM on Friday, November 2 and matins and Divine Liturgy at 8:30AM and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 3. Come and give thanks to God for St. Raphael and his patronage for us!
Stewardship Retreat Is Postponed
Due to some health challenges that our presenter Archdeacon Saed Rihani has been experiencing, we will not be having our retreat on Christian Stewardship on November 17. If he is feeling better, Archdeacon Saed would like to return in the Spring to give the retreat.
40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil
40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 14,643 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 177 abortion workers and seen 96 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa!
WHERE: Emma Goldman Center (public sidewalk), 227 N. Dubuque St. Iowa City
WHEN: Sept. 26 - Nov. 4, 2018 , 1 hour shifts: 8am-8pm, everyday www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity Contact Gary Sieren (319) 330-0961
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, there came to Jesus a man named Jairus, who was a ruler of the synagogue; and falling at Jesus’ feet he besought Him to come to his house, for he had an only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she was dying. As Jesus went, the people pressed round Him. And a woman, who had had a flow of blood for twelve years, and had spent all her living upon physicians, and could not be healed by anyone, came up behind Him, and touched the fringe of His garment; and immediately her flow of blood ceased. And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched Me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the multitudes surround Thee and press upon Thee! And Thou sayest, ‘Who touched Me?’” But Jesus said, “Someone touched Me; for I perceive that power has gone forth from Me.” And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling,and falling down before Him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched Him,and how she had been immediately healed. And Jesus said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” While Jesus was still speaking, a man from the ruler’s house came andsaid, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher any more.” But Jesus on hearing this answered him, “Do not fear; only believe, and she shall be well.” And when Jesus came to the house, He permitted no one to enter with Him, except Peter and James and John, and the father and mother of the child. And all were weeping and bewailing her; but Jesus said, “Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But taking her by the hand Jesus called, saying, “Child, arise.” And her spirit returned, and she got up at once; and Jesus directed that something should be given her to eat. And her parents were amazed; but He charged them to tell no one what had happened. (Luke 8:41-56)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Thou didst demolish by Thy Death, O Lord, the gates of Hades; Thou didst dissolve the realm of death; and didst free the human race from corruption, granting the world life and incorruptibility and Great Mercy."
Stichera of the Resurrection (Tone 4) from "O Lord I Have Cried"
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
October 23, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 24, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "Jesus: In the Beginning was the Word; Who do you say that I am? (John 1:1-14, Mark 1-8)" , 7:30PM
October 25, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 26, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
October 27, Saturday
+ Parish Clean-up Day, 12:00PM-4:00PM
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 28, Sunday, 22nd Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day, October 27
It's time to do a more thorough cleaning of our lovely church building and grounds. Please come and lend a hand on Saturday, October 27 from 12:00PM-4:00PM. Chores needing to be done include metal polishing, vacuuming, leaf raking, and more!
Annual Pledge Packets Are Coming!
Next Sunday, October 28, the Parish Council intends to distribute packets of information for everyone regarding making a financial pledge to the church for 2019. This is a very important process in being able to suggest, discuss and pass a responsible budget, which will happen at our annual meeting on December 2. Pledge paperwork needs to be returned to our treasurer no later than November 18. Please pray about what you are able to regularly give to the church, and help us by making that pledge.
St. Raphael Feast Day Services
We will celebrate our patron saint with Vespers (with Litia and Artoklasia) at 7:00PM on Friday, November 2 and matins and Divine Liturgy at 8:30AM and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 3. Come and give thanks to God for St. Raphael and his patronage for us!
Stewardship Retreat Is Postponed
Due to some health challenges that our presenter Archdeacon Saed Rihani has been experiencing, we will not be having our retreat on Christian Stewardship on November 17. If he is feeling better, Archdeacon Saed would like to return in the Spring to give the retreat.
40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil
40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 14,643 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 177 abortion workers and seen 96 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa!
WHERE: Emma Goldman Center (public sidewalk), 227 N. Dubuque St. Iowa City
WHEN: Sept. 26 - Nov. 4, 2018 , 1 hour shifts: 8am-8pm, everyday www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity Contact Gary Sieren (319) 330-0961
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, there came to Jesus a man named Jairus, who was a ruler of the synagogue; and falling at Jesus’ feet he besought Him to come to his house, for he had an only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she was dying. As Jesus went, the people pressed round Him. And a woman, who had had a flow of blood for twelve years, and had spent all her living upon physicians, and could not be healed by anyone, came up behind Him, and touched the fringe of His garment; and immediately her flow of blood ceased. And Jesus said, “Who was it that touched Me?” When all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the multitudes surround Thee and press upon Thee! And Thou sayest, ‘Who touched Me?’” But Jesus said, “Someone touched Me; for I perceive that power has gone forth from Me.” And when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling,and falling down before Him declared in the presence of all the people why she had touched Him,and how she had been immediately healed. And Jesus said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” While Jesus was still speaking, a man from the ruler’s house came andsaid, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher any more.” But Jesus on hearing this answered him, “Do not fear; only believe, and she shall be well.” And when Jesus came to the house, He permitted no one to enter with Him, except Peter and James and John, and the father and mother of the child. And all were weeping and bewailing her; but Jesus said, “Do not weep; for she is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But taking her by the hand Jesus called, saying, “Child, arise.” And her spirit returned, and she got up at once; and Jesus directed that something should be given her to eat. And her parents were amazed; but He charged them to tell no one what had happened. (Luke 8:41-56)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Thou didst demolish by Thy Death, O Lord, the gates of Hades; Thou didst dissolve the realm of death; and didst free the human race from corruption, granting the world life and incorruptibility and Great Mercy."
Stichera of the Resurrection (Tone 4) from "O Lord I Have Cried"
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday October 14, 2018, Fathers of the Seventh Ecumenical Council
This Week's Services and Events
October 16, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vespers in Kalona, 7:00PM
October 17, Wednesday
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "Looking for the Salvation of Israel: Samples from the Psalms and Prophets,", 7:30PM
October 20, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 21, Sunday, 21st Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Father is Traveling
Fr. Ignatius will be out of town October 17-19 attending a deanery meeting and a diocesan clergy retreat in Toledo, Ohio. He can be reached at 319-400-7522. There will be no office hours or 9th or 3rd hour Prayers on those days.
October 21 is Special Olympics Awareness Day
Each year, the youth of our Archdiocese spearhead a fundraising effort for the annual Special Olympics event that is hosted at the Antiochian Village in Pennsylvania. During announcements next week, we will hear an appeal for funds. Please be generous if you can to support this worthy effort. See attachment for more information.
Update on Front Steps
As many of you know, one set of our front steps has been in disrepair and unusable since last winter. Several months ago, we received two generous donations toward the repair and very recently, we have been awarded at grant (up to $5000) from the Iowa City Historic Preservation Fund, as our building is a designated by the city as a contributing building in the College Green Historic District. We are waiting for the contractor to come and do the repair and praying that it might be able to be done still before winter sets in.
Congratulations!
Congratulations to our own Matthew Arndt, who is one of six collaborative composers of Heaven and Earth, a new choral setting of Psalm 103, part of the ambitious Psalm 103 Project that was conceived of by parish friend Richard Barrett. The world premiere of this piece took place this weekend, with three concerts in the Pacific Northwest sung by the esteemed Cappella Romana vocal ensemble.
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day, October 27
It's time to do a more thorough cleaning of our lovely church building and grounds. Please come and lend a hand on Saturday, October 27 from 12:00PM-4:00PM. Chores needing to be done include metal polishing, vacuuming, leaf raking, and more!
St. Raphael Feast Day Services
We will celebrate our patron saint with Vespers (with Litia and Artoklasia) at 7:00PM on Friday, November 2 and matins and Divine Liturgy at 8:30AM and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 3. Come and give thanks to God for St. Raphael and his patronage for us!
Stewardship Retreat is Postponed
Due to some health challenges that our presenter Archdeacon Saed Rihani has been experiencing, we will not be having our retreat on Christian Stewardship on November 17. If he is feeling better, Archdeacon Saed would like to return in the Spring to give the retreat.
Informed Choice/Obria Medical Clinics Fundraiser Dinner
The local pro-life medical clinic, which offers real medical care and other help for women who are facing an unexpected pregnancy and may be contemplating abortion, is having their annual fundraiser dinner on October 29 at 7pm at the Coralvile Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. Dinner is free. Registration is required. For more information and to register, go to: http://www.informedchoiceia.org/youre-invited-to-an-evening-to-remember/
40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil
40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 14,643 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 177 abortion workers and seen 96 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa!
WHERE: Emma Goldman Center (public sidewalk), 227 N. Dubuque St. Iowa City
WHEN: Sept. 26 - Nov. 4, 2018 , 1 hour shifts: 8am-8pm, everyday www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity Contact Gary Sieren (319) 330-0961
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is opposite Galilee. And as He stepped out on land, there met Him a man from the city who had demons; for a long time he had worn no clothes, and he lived not in a house but among the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him, and said with a loud voice, “What hast Thou to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beseech Thee, do not torment me.” For Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. [For many a time it had seized him; he was kept under guard, and bound with chains and fetters, but he broke the bonds and was driven by the demon into the desert.] Jesus then asked him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion”; for many demons had entered him. And they begged Jesus not to command them to depart into the abyss. Now a large herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside; and they begged Jesus to let them enter these. So He gave them leave. Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned. When the herdsmen saw what had happened, they fled, and told it in the city and in the country. Then people went out to see what had happened, and they came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had gone, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. And those who had seen it told them how he who had been possessed with demons was healed. Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gadarenes asked Jesus to depart from them; for they were seized with great fear; so He got into the boat and returned. The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with Jesus; but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return to your home, and declare all that God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city all that Jesus had done for him. (Luke 8:26-39)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Take heed then, often to come together to give thanks to God, and show forth His praise. For when you assemble frequently together in the same place, the powers of Satan are destroyed, and the destruction at which he aims is prevented by the unity of your faith."
St. Ignatius of Antioch in his Epistle to the Ephesians
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
October 16, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vespers in Kalona, 7:00PM
October 17, Wednesday
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "Looking for the Salvation of Israel: Samples from the Psalms and Prophets,", 7:30PM
October 20, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 21, Sunday, 21st Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Father is Traveling
Fr. Ignatius will be out of town October 17-19 attending a deanery meeting and a diocesan clergy retreat in Toledo, Ohio. He can be reached at 319-400-7522. There will be no office hours or 9th or 3rd hour Prayers on those days.
October 21 is Special Olympics Awareness Day
Each year, the youth of our Archdiocese spearhead a fundraising effort for the annual Special Olympics event that is hosted at the Antiochian Village in Pennsylvania. During announcements next week, we will hear an appeal for funds. Please be generous if you can to support this worthy effort. See attachment for more information.
Update on Front Steps
As many of you know, one set of our front steps has been in disrepair and unusable since last winter. Several months ago, we received two generous donations toward the repair and very recently, we have been awarded at grant (up to $5000) from the Iowa City Historic Preservation Fund, as our building is a designated by the city as a contributing building in the College Green Historic District. We are waiting for the contractor to come and do the repair and praying that it might be able to be done still before winter sets in.
Congratulations!
Congratulations to our own Matthew Arndt, who is one of six collaborative composers of Heaven and Earth, a new choral setting of Psalm 103, part of the ambitious Psalm 103 Project that was conceived of by parish friend Richard Barrett. The world premiere of this piece took place this weekend, with three concerts in the Pacific Northwest sung by the esteemed Cappella Romana vocal ensemble.
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day, October 27
It's time to do a more thorough cleaning of our lovely church building and grounds. Please come and lend a hand on Saturday, October 27 from 12:00PM-4:00PM. Chores needing to be done include metal polishing, vacuuming, leaf raking, and more!
St. Raphael Feast Day Services
We will celebrate our patron saint with Vespers (with Litia and Artoklasia) at 7:00PM on Friday, November 2 and matins and Divine Liturgy at 8:30AM and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 3. Come and give thanks to God for St. Raphael and his patronage for us!
Stewardship Retreat is Postponed
Due to some health challenges that our presenter Archdeacon Saed Rihani has been experiencing, we will not be having our retreat on Christian Stewardship on November 17. If he is feeling better, Archdeacon Saed would like to return in the Spring to give the retreat.
Informed Choice/Obria Medical Clinics Fundraiser Dinner
The local pro-life medical clinic, which offers real medical care and other help for women who are facing an unexpected pregnancy and may be contemplating abortion, is having their annual fundraiser dinner on October 29 at 7pm at the Coralvile Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. Dinner is free. Registration is required. For more information and to register, go to: http://www.informedchoiceia.org/youre-invited-to-an-evening-to-remember/
40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil
40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 14,643 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 177 abortion workers and seen 96 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa!
WHERE: Emma Goldman Center (public sidewalk), 227 N. Dubuque St. Iowa City
WHEN: Sept. 26 - Nov. 4, 2018 , 1 hour shifts: 8am-8pm, everyday www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity Contact Gary Sieren (319) 330-0961
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is opposite Galilee. And as He stepped out on land, there met Him a man from the city who had demons; for a long time he had worn no clothes, and he lived not in a house but among the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him, and said with a loud voice, “What hast Thou to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beseech Thee, do not torment me.” For Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. [For many a time it had seized him; he was kept under guard, and bound with chains and fetters, but he broke the bonds and was driven by the demon into the desert.] Jesus then asked him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion”; for many demons had entered him. And they begged Jesus not to command them to depart into the abyss. Now a large herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside; and they begged Jesus to let them enter these. So He gave them leave. Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned. When the herdsmen saw what had happened, they fled, and told it in the city and in the country. Then people went out to see what had happened, and they came to Jesus, and found the man from whom the demons had gone, sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. And those who had seen it told them how he who had been possessed with demons was healed. Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gadarenes asked Jesus to depart from them; for they were seized with great fear; so He got into the boat and returned. The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with Jesus; but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return to your home, and declare all that God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city all that Jesus had done for him. (Luke 8:26-39)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Take heed then, often to come together to give thanks to God, and show forth His praise. For when you assemble frequently together in the same place, the powers of Satan are destroyed, and the destruction at which he aims is prevented by the unity of your faith."
St. Ignatius of Antioch in his Epistle to the Ephesians
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday October 7, 2018, 19th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
October 9, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 10, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion: "Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love--Exodus chapters 1-40, 7:30PM
October 11, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 12, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
October 13, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 14, Sunday, Fathers of the 7th Ecumenical Council
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Today Is College Student Sunday
One of the important ministries at St. Raphael Church is the University of Iowa Orthodox Christian Fellowship, our college student group. We have an obligation, as the Orthodox parish in a college town, to maintain our faith and to reach out to students, faculty and the entire university community with the light of Christ. Nationally, October 7 has been designated by the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops as "College Student Sunday." To read a letter from the hierarchical overseer of OCF, Bishop Gregory of Nyssa, see the attached document. To help out our local OCF group, consider hosting them for a Thursday evening meal in your home. Check with Lizzy Valentine for more information on that.
Annual Run for the Schools Race
Each year in October, there is a large race that runs right past our church on Sunday morning and this greatly affects parking and traffic in our neighborhood for that day. This year's Run for the Schools race is Sunday, October 14, next Sunday. College Street, along with the major north-south streets of Dodge, Governor and Gilbert will be shut down to vehicle traffic until 12:30PM. The best place to find a parking space will be at the Chauncey Swan Parking Garage three blocks west of the church. Be sure to enter on the Washington St. side as the College St. side will be closed.
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day, October 27
It's time to do a more thorough cleaning of our lovely church building and grounds. Please come and lend a hand on Saturday, October 27 from 12:00PM-4:00PM. Chores needing to be done include metal polishing, vacuuming, leaf raking, and more!
St. Raphael Feast Day Services
We will celebrate our patron saint with Vespers (with Litia and Artoklasia) at 7:00PM on Friday, November 2 and matins and Divine Liturgy at 8:30AM and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 3. Come and give thanks to God for St. Raphael and his patronage for us! We are looking for a volunteer to make the festal arts bread.
Message of the 9th Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America
Bishops from all the canonical Orthodox jurisdictions who are active in the United States have met annually for the past nine years to discuss common issues that relate to and affect all Orthodox Christians and our society at large. The Bishops just concluded their annual meeting in Cleveland this week. To read their message to the faithful, go to: http://www.assemblyofbishops.org/news/2018/message-ninth-assembly-of-canonical-orthodox-bishops
Statement from the Holy Synod of Antioch
The Synod of Antioch recently concluded their semi-annual meeting, and they issued a statement that addresses some of the concerning subjects that are manifesting themselves between the various patriarchates and other local churches of Orthodoxy, such as the ongoing dispute between the Patriarchates of Antioch and Jerusalem over Qatar, and the more recent dispute between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Patriarchate of Moscow over Ukraine. To read the statement, go to: http://www.antiochian.org/regulararticle/157
November 17 Retreat on Stewardship
Archdeacon Saed Rihani from St. Mary Church in Palos Heights Illinois will be leading us in a day long retreat focusing on the idea of Christian Stewardship titled "Our Pursuit of Holiness: Using our Time, Talent and Treasures" More information, including a schedule will be released in the coming weeks. Attached is a poster advertising the retreat.
Informed Choice/Obria Medical Clinics Fundraiser Dinner
The local pro-life medical clinic, which offers real medical care and other help for women who are facing an unexpected pregnancy and may be contemplating abortion, is having their annual fundraiser dinner on October 29 at 7pm at the Coralvile Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. Dinner is free. Registration is required. For more information and to register, go to: http://www.informedchoiceia.org/youre-invited-to-an-evening-to-remember/
40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil
40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 14,643 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 177 abortion workers and seen 96 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa!
WHERE: Emma Goldman Center (public sidewalk), 227 N. Dubuque St. Iowa City
WHEN: Sept. 26 - Nov. 4, 2018 , 1 hour shifts: 8am-8pm, everyday www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity Contact Gary Sieren (319) 330-0961
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
October 10: Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love, Exodus 1-40
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew, and yielded a hundredfold.” And when His Disciples asked Him what this parable meant, Jesus said,“To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God; but for others they are in parables, so that seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy; but these have no root, they believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way, they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. And as for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forthfruit with patience.” As Jesus said this, He called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Luke 8:5-15)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
“Life is an undertaking of prayer. It exists for prayer. Man has no value unless he prays. Prayer is the value. In prayer, man becomes man. Prayer is to enshroud all of life. Thus the saying: pray without ceasing, pray and do not grow weary! This is for everyone, not only for ascetics. Just as breath is for all people, so too is prayer for all people.”
Archimandrite Touma Bitar
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
October 9, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 10, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion: "Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love--Exodus chapters 1-40, 7:30PM
October 11, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 12, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
October 13, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 14, Sunday, Fathers of the 7th Ecumenical Council
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Today Is College Student Sunday
One of the important ministries at St. Raphael Church is the University of Iowa Orthodox Christian Fellowship, our college student group. We have an obligation, as the Orthodox parish in a college town, to maintain our faith and to reach out to students, faculty and the entire university community with the light of Christ. Nationally, October 7 has been designated by the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops as "College Student Sunday." To read a letter from the hierarchical overseer of OCF, Bishop Gregory of Nyssa, see the attached document. To help out our local OCF group, consider hosting them for a Thursday evening meal in your home. Check with Lizzy Valentine for more information on that.
Annual Run for the Schools Race
Each year in October, there is a large race that runs right past our church on Sunday morning and this greatly affects parking and traffic in our neighborhood for that day. This year's Run for the Schools race is Sunday, October 14, next Sunday. College Street, along with the major north-south streets of Dodge, Governor and Gilbert will be shut down to vehicle traffic until 12:30PM. The best place to find a parking space will be at the Chauncey Swan Parking Garage three blocks west of the church. Be sure to enter on the Washington St. side as the College St. side will be closed.
Semi-Annual Clean-up Day, October 27
It's time to do a more thorough cleaning of our lovely church building and grounds. Please come and lend a hand on Saturday, October 27 from 12:00PM-4:00PM. Chores needing to be done include metal polishing, vacuuming, leaf raking, and more!
St. Raphael Feast Day Services
We will celebrate our patron saint with Vespers (with Litia and Artoklasia) at 7:00PM on Friday, November 2 and matins and Divine Liturgy at 8:30AM and 10:00AM on Saturday, November 3. Come and give thanks to God for St. Raphael and his patronage for us! We are looking for a volunteer to make the festal arts bread.
Message of the 9th Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America
Bishops from all the canonical Orthodox jurisdictions who are active in the United States have met annually for the past nine years to discuss common issues that relate to and affect all Orthodox Christians and our society at large. The Bishops just concluded their annual meeting in Cleveland this week. To read their message to the faithful, go to: http://www.assemblyofbishops.org/news/2018/message-ninth-assembly-of-canonical-orthodox-bishops
Statement from the Holy Synod of Antioch
The Synod of Antioch recently concluded their semi-annual meeting, and they issued a statement that addresses some of the concerning subjects that are manifesting themselves between the various patriarchates and other local churches of Orthodoxy, such as the ongoing dispute between the Patriarchates of Antioch and Jerusalem over Qatar, and the more recent dispute between the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Patriarchate of Moscow over Ukraine. To read the statement, go to: http://www.antiochian.org/regulararticle/157
November 17 Retreat on Stewardship
Archdeacon Saed Rihani from St. Mary Church in Palos Heights Illinois will be leading us in a day long retreat focusing on the idea of Christian Stewardship titled "Our Pursuit of Holiness: Using our Time, Talent and Treasures" More information, including a schedule will be released in the coming weeks. Attached is a poster advertising the retreat.
Informed Choice/Obria Medical Clinics Fundraiser Dinner
The local pro-life medical clinic, which offers real medical care and other help for women who are facing an unexpected pregnancy and may be contemplating abortion, is having their annual fundraiser dinner on October 29 at 7pm at the Coralvile Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. Dinner is free. Registration is required. For more information and to register, go to: http://www.informedchoiceia.org/youre-invited-to-an-evening-to-remember/
40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil
40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 14,643 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 177 abortion workers and seen 96 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa!
WHERE: Emma Goldman Center (public sidewalk), 227 N. Dubuque St. Iowa City
WHEN: Sept. 26 - Nov. 4, 2018 , 1 hour shifts: 8am-8pm, everyday www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity Contact Gary Sieren (319) 330-0961
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
October 10: Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love, Exodus 1-40
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew, and yielded a hundredfold.” And when His Disciples asked Him what this parable meant, Jesus said,“To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God; but for others they are in parables, so that seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy; but these have no root, they believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way, they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. And as for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forthfruit with patience.” As Jesus said this, He called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Luke 8:5-15)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
“Life is an undertaking of prayer. It exists for prayer. Man has no value unless he prays. Prayer is the value. In prayer, man becomes man. Prayer is to enshroud all of life. Thus the saying: pray without ceasing, pray and do not grow weary! This is for everyone, not only for ascetics. Just as breath is for all people, so too is prayer for all people.”
Archimandrite Touma Bitar
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday September 30, 2018, 18th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
October 2, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 3, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "Faith and the Journey Home, Genesis 11:27-chapter 50" , 7:30PM
October 4, Thursday
+Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 5, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
October 6, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 7, Sunday, 18th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
November 17 Retreat on Stewardship
Archdeacon Saed Rihani from St. Mary Church in Palos Heights Illinois will be leading us in a day long retreat focusing on the idea of Christian Stewardship titled "Our Pursuit of Holiness: Using our Time, Talent and Treasures" More information, including a schedule click here and scroll down to Latest News.
Informed Choice/Obria Medical Clinics Fundraiser Dinner
The local pro-life medical clinic, which offers real medical care and other help for women who are facing an unexpected pregnancy and may be contemplating abortion, is having their annual fundraiser dinner on October 29 at 7pm at the Coralville Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. Dinner is free. Registration is required. For more information and to register, go to: http://www.informedchoiceia.org/youre-invited-to-an-evening-to-remember/
40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil
40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 14,643 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 177 abortion workers and seen 96 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa!
WHERE: Emma Goldman Center (public sidewalk), 227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City
WHEN: Sept. 26 to Nov. 4, 2018 , 1 hour shifts: 8am-8pm, everyday www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity Contact Gary Sieren (319) 330-0961
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
October 3: There and Back Again: Faith and the Journey Home, Genesis 11:27 to chapter 50
October 10: Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love, Exodus 1-40
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus went to a city called Nain, and many of His disciples and a great crowd went with Him. As He drew near to the gate of the city, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a large crowd from the city was with her. And when the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” And He came and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And Jesus said, “Young man, I say to you: arise.” And the dead man sat up, and began to speak. And Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all; and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and “God has visited His people!” (Luke 7:11-16)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."
1 Peter 5:6-7
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
October 2, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 3, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "Faith and the Journey Home, Genesis 11:27-chapter 50" , 7:30PM
October 4, Thursday
+Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
October 5, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
October 6, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
October 7, Sunday, 18th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
November 17 Retreat on Stewardship
Archdeacon Saed Rihani from St. Mary Church in Palos Heights Illinois will be leading us in a day long retreat focusing on the idea of Christian Stewardship titled "Our Pursuit of Holiness: Using our Time, Talent and Treasures" More information, including a schedule click here and scroll down to Latest News.
Informed Choice/Obria Medical Clinics Fundraiser Dinner
The local pro-life medical clinic, which offers real medical care and other help for women who are facing an unexpected pregnancy and may be contemplating abortion, is having their annual fundraiser dinner on October 29 at 7pm at the Coralville Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. Dinner is free. Registration is required. For more information and to register, go to: http://www.informedchoiceia.org/youre-invited-to-an-evening-to-remember/
40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil
40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 14,643 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 177 abortion workers and seen 96 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa!
WHERE: Emma Goldman Center (public sidewalk), 227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City
WHEN: Sept. 26 to Nov. 4, 2018 , 1 hour shifts: 8am-8pm, everyday www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity Contact Gary Sieren (319) 330-0961
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
October 3: There and Back Again: Faith and the Journey Home, Genesis 11:27 to chapter 50
October 10: Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love, Exodus 1-40
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus went to a city called Nain, and many of His disciples and a great crowd went with Him. As He drew near to the gate of the city, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a large crowd from the city was with her. And when the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” And He came and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And Jesus said, “Young man, I say to you: arise.” And the dead man sat up, and began to speak. And Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all; and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and “God has visited His people!” (Luke 7:11-16)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."
1 Peter 5:6-7
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday September 23, 2018, Conception of St. John the Forerunner
This Week's Services and Events
September 25, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 26, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "Distrust and Deathless, and God's Response (Genesis 4-11:26)" , 7:30PM
September 27, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 28, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 29, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 30, Sunday, 18th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Parish-wide Potluck Next Sunday
Being the fifth Sunday of the month, on September 30, all are invited to bring food to share for coffee hour following liturgy.
November 17 Retreat on Stewardship
Archdeacon Saed Rihani from St. Mary Church in Palos Heights, Illinois, will be leading us in a day long retreat focusing on the idea of Christian Stewardship titled "Our Pursuit of Holiness: Using our Time, Talent and Treasures" More information, including a schedule will be released in the coming weeks.
Pro-life News
* Informed Choice of Iowa City/Obria Medical Clinics Fundraiser Dinner*
The local pro-life medical clinic, which offers real medical care and other help for women who are facing an unexpected pregnancy and may be contemplating abortion, is having their annual fundraiser dinner on October 29 at 7PM at the Coralville Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. Dinner is free. Registration is required. For more information and to register, go to: http://www.informedchoiceia.org/youre-invited-to-an-evening-to-remember/
* 40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil*
40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 14,643 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 177 abortion workers and seen 96 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa.
WHERE: Emma Goldman Center (public sidewalk), 227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City
WHEN: Sept. 26 - Nov. 4, 2018 , 1 hour shifts: 8AM-8PM, every day. See www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity. Contact Gary Sieren, (319) 330-0961.
* From Death to Life--A Story of Transformation*
For 18 years, Planned Parenthood operated an abortion clinic in Bettendorf, Iowa, until it closed down in 2017. It is estimated that 10,000 unborn children died by abortions in that building over those years. Now, that building is owned and operated by a Christian ministry doing the work of the Lord, providing help to pregnant women by offering hope and promoting life. To read more about this amazing story, go to the following link and scroll to page 4. https://b31335ab93814c8cc2ae-0a89c7c9f703c8791cb1d0d875ef2ca5.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/uploaded/l/0e7690229_1534452122_lifedatefall2018website.pdf
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss:
September 26: Distrust and Deathliness, and God's Response, Genesis 4-11:26
October 3: There and Back Again: Faith and the Journey Home, Genesis 11:27-chapter 50
October 10: Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love, Exodus 1-40
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said: “As you wish that men would do to you, do so to them. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and the selfish. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:31-36)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: 'What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. For this is he of whom it is written:
"Behold, I send My messenger before Your face,
Who will prepare Your way before You.
Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if you are willing to receive it, he is Elijah who is to come. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!"
Matthew 11:7-15
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
September 25, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 26, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "Distrust and Deathless, and God's Response (Genesis 4-11:26)" , 7:30PM
September 27, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 28, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 29, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 30, Sunday, 18th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Parish-wide Potluck Next Sunday
Being the fifth Sunday of the month, on September 30, all are invited to bring food to share for coffee hour following liturgy.
November 17 Retreat on Stewardship
Archdeacon Saed Rihani from St. Mary Church in Palos Heights, Illinois, will be leading us in a day long retreat focusing on the idea of Christian Stewardship titled "Our Pursuit of Holiness: Using our Time, Talent and Treasures" More information, including a schedule will be released in the coming weeks.
Pro-life News
* Informed Choice of Iowa City/Obria Medical Clinics Fundraiser Dinner*
The local pro-life medical clinic, which offers real medical care and other help for women who are facing an unexpected pregnancy and may be contemplating abortion, is having their annual fundraiser dinner on October 29 at 7PM at the Coralville Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. Dinner is free. Registration is required. For more information and to register, go to: http://www.informedchoiceia.org/youre-invited-to-an-evening-to-remember/
* 40 Days for Life Prayer Vigil*
40 Days for Life is a peaceful, prayerful and effective pro-life campaign that has helped save 14,643 known lives from abortion, led to the conversion of 177 abortion workers and seen 96 abortion centers close, with 20 closed in Iowa.
WHERE: Emma Goldman Center (public sidewalk), 227 N. Dubuque St., Iowa City
WHEN: Sept. 26 - Nov. 4, 2018 , 1 hour shifts: 8AM-8PM, every day. See www.40daysforlife.com/iowacity. Contact Gary Sieren, (319) 330-0961.
* From Death to Life--A Story of Transformation*
For 18 years, Planned Parenthood operated an abortion clinic in Bettendorf, Iowa, until it closed down in 2017. It is estimated that 10,000 unborn children died by abortions in that building over those years. Now, that building is owned and operated by a Christian ministry doing the work of the Lord, providing help to pregnant women by offering hope and promoting life. To read more about this amazing story, go to the following link and scroll to page 4. https://b31335ab93814c8cc2ae-0a89c7c9f703c8791cb1d0d875ef2ca5.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/uploaded/l/0e7690229_1534452122_lifedatefall2018website.pdf
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss:
September 26: Distrust and Deathliness, and God's Response, Genesis 4-11:26
October 3: There and Back Again: Faith and the Journey Home, Genesis 11:27-chapter 50
October 10: Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love, Exodus 1-40
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours and during church services. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said: “As you wish that men would do to you, do so to them. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and the selfish. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:31-36)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: 'What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. For this is he of whom it is written:
"Behold, I send My messenger before Your face,
Who will prepare Your way before You.
Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if you are willing to receive it, he is Elijah who is to come. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!"
Matthew 11:7-15
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday September 16, 2018, Sunday after the Elevation of the Cross
This Week's Services and Events
September 18, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 19, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "The Knowledge of Good and Evil, Genesis 3" , 7:30PM
September 20, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 21, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 22, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 23, Sunday, Conception of the Forerunner and Baptist John
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
We Need a Volunteer to Bake Holy Bread
Nobody has yet signed up to bake holy bread for Liturgy on Sunday, September 23. If you can do this, let Fr. Ignatius know.
Geneva Lecture Series
Geneva Campus Ministry is hosting Dr. Mary Li Ma, a Chinese/American Sociologist, who will discuss "The Remaking of Christian Churches in a Changing Chinese Society", on Sunday, September 23, at 3:00 pm, at Trinity Episcopal Church, 320 E. College, Iowa City.
November 17 Retreat on Stewardship
Archdeacon Saed Rihani from St. Mary Church in Palos Heights Illinois will be leading us in a day long retreat focusing on the idea of Christian Stewardship titled "Our Pursuit of Holiness: Using our Time, Talent and Treasures" More information, including a schedule will be released in the coming weeks.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
September 19: The Knowledge of Good and Evil, Genesis 3
September 26: Distrust and Deathliness, and God's Response, Genesis 4-11:26
October 3: There and Back Again: Faith and the Journey Home, Genesis 11:27-chapter 50
October 10: Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love, Exodus 1-40
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Change for Wednesday Evenings
Beginning Wednesday, September 12 and through the Fall, Akathist will begin at 6:50PM each Wednesday, to be followed immediately at 7:30PM by the series of discussions on the Bible organized by Lori Branch.
Parking Reminder
On weekends when there is a Hawkeyes home football game scheduled, it can be very difficult to find on-street parking in the neighborhood of the church. Keep in mind that the Chauncey Swan parking garage is just three blocks to the west of church on College Street.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus was standing by the lake of Gennesaret. And He saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, Jesus asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when Jesus had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at Thy word I will let down the nets.” And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking, they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the catch of fish, which they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men.” And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed Him. (Luke 5:1-11)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
For the Cross is the salvation of the Church; the Cross is the boast of those who hope in it; the Cross is reconciliation of enemies to God and conversion of sinners to Christ. For through the Cross we have been delivered from enmity, and through the Cross we have been joined in friendship to God. Through the Cross we have been freed from the tyranny of the devil, and through the Cross we have been delivered from death and destruction. When the Cross was not proclaimed, we were held fast by death; now the, Cross is proclaimed, and we have come to despise death, as though it did not exist, while we have come to long for everlasting life. When the Cross was not proclaimed, we were strangers to paradise; but when the Cross appeared, at once a thief was found worthy of paradise. From such darkness the human race has crossed over to infinite light; from death it has been called to everlasting life, from corruption it has been renewed for incorruption. For the eyes of the heart are no longer covered by the darkness that comes through ignorance, but through the Cross they are flooded with the light of knowledge. The ears of the deaf are no longer shut by unbelief, for the deaf have heard the word of the Lord, and the blind have recovered their sight to see the glory of God. These are the gifts we are given through the Cross. What blessing has not been achieved for us through the Cross?
--St. John Chrysostom
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
September 18, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 19, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "The Knowledge of Good and Evil, Genesis 3" , 7:30PM
September 20, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 21, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 22, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 23, Sunday, Conception of the Forerunner and Baptist John
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
We Need a Volunteer to Bake Holy Bread
Nobody has yet signed up to bake holy bread for Liturgy on Sunday, September 23. If you can do this, let Fr. Ignatius know.
Geneva Lecture Series
Geneva Campus Ministry is hosting Dr. Mary Li Ma, a Chinese/American Sociologist, who will discuss "The Remaking of Christian Churches in a Changing Chinese Society", on Sunday, September 23, at 3:00 pm, at Trinity Episcopal Church, 320 E. College, Iowa City.
November 17 Retreat on Stewardship
Archdeacon Saed Rihani from St. Mary Church in Palos Heights Illinois will be leading us in a day long retreat focusing on the idea of Christian Stewardship titled "Our Pursuit of Holiness: Using our Time, Talent and Treasures" More information, including a schedule will be released in the coming weeks.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
September 19: The Knowledge of Good and Evil, Genesis 3
September 26: Distrust and Deathliness, and God's Response, Genesis 4-11:26
October 3: There and Back Again: Faith and the Journey Home, Genesis 11:27-chapter 50
October 10: Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love, Exodus 1-40
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Change for Wednesday Evenings
Beginning Wednesday, September 12 and through the Fall, Akathist will begin at 6:50PM each Wednesday, to be followed immediately at 7:30PM by the series of discussions on the Bible organized by Lori Branch.
Parking Reminder
On weekends when there is a Hawkeyes home football game scheduled, it can be very difficult to find on-street parking in the neighborhood of the church. Keep in mind that the Chauncey Swan parking garage is just three blocks to the west of church on College Street.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our food pantry is open during Father's office hours. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus was standing by the lake of Gennesaret. And He saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, Jesus asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when Jesus had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at Thy word I will let down the nets.” And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking, they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the catch of fish, which they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men.” And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed Him. (Luke 5:1-11)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
For the Cross is the salvation of the Church; the Cross is the boast of those who hope in it; the Cross is reconciliation of enemies to God and conversion of sinners to Christ. For through the Cross we have been delivered from enmity, and through the Cross we have been joined in friendship to God. Through the Cross we have been freed from the tyranny of the devil, and through the Cross we have been delivered from death and destruction. When the Cross was not proclaimed, we were held fast by death; now the, Cross is proclaimed, and we have come to despise death, as though it did not exist, while we have come to long for everlasting life. When the Cross was not proclaimed, we were strangers to paradise; but when the Cross appeared, at once a thief was found worthy of paradise. From such darkness the human race has crossed over to infinite light; from death it has been called to everlasting life, from corruption it has been renewed for incorruption. For the eyes of the heart are no longer covered by the darkness that comes through ignorance, but through the Cross they are flooded with the light of knowledge. The ears of the deaf are no longer shut by unbelief, for the deaf have heard the word of the Lord, and the blind have recovered their sight to see the glory of God. These are the gifts we are given through the Cross. What blessing has not been achieved for us through the Cross?
--St. John Chrysostom
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday September 9, 2018- Sunday before the Elevation of the Cross
This Week's Services and Events
September 11, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 12, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "The Goodness of Creation and Who is God Anyway?" , 7:30PM
September 13, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for Exaltation of the Cross, 6:00PM
September 14, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 15, Saturday
+ Food Pantry open, 11:00AM-12:30PM
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 16, Sunday, Sunday after the Elevation of the Cross
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
November 17 Retreat on Stewardship
Archdeacon Saed Rihani from St. Mary Church in Palos Heights Illinois will be leading us in a day long retreat focusing on the idea of Christian Stewardship titled "Our Pursuit of Holiness: Using our Time, Talent and Treasures" More information, including a schedule will be released in the coming weeks.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
September 12: The Goodness of Creation and Who is God Anyway?, Genesis 1-2
September 19: The Knowledge of Good and Evil, Genesis 3
September 26: Distrust and Deathliness, and God's Response, Genesis 4-11:26
October 3: There and Back Again: Faith and the Journey Home, Genesis 11:27-chapter 50
October 10: Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love, Exodus 1-40
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Change for Wednesday Evenings
Beginning Wednesday, September 12 and through the Fall, Akathist will begin at 6:50PM each Wednesday, to be followed immediately at 7:30PM by the series of discussions on the Bible organized by Lori Branch.
Parking Reminder
On weekends when there is a Hawkeyes home football game scheduled, it can be very difficult to find on-street parking in the neighborhood of the church. Keep in mind that the Chauncey Swan parking garage is just three blocks to the west of church on College Street.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “If any man would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake and the Gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of Me and of My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” And He said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see theKingdom of God come with power.” (Mark 8:34-9:1)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"If you want to do spiritual work on yourselves, do not examine what others are doing around you; instead, have good thoughts about both the good and the bad you see in others. Regardless of the reason why someone does something, you must put a good thought in your mind. A good thought contains love; it disarms the other person and makes him behave properly... If you had spiritual health, you would see even the impure as pure. Just as you recognize the value of fruit, you would also recognize the value of manure because manure helps the fruit to grow. Whoever has good thoughts also has spiritual health, and what is evil can be changed into good."
+Saint Paisios, Spiritual Counsels, Volume III: Spiritual Struggle, p. 27-28.
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
September 11, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 12, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist 6:50PM
+ The Story of the Bible discussion "The Goodness of Creation and Who is God Anyway?" , 7:30PM
September 13, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for Exaltation of the Cross, 6:00PM
September 14, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 15, Saturday
+ Food Pantry open, 11:00AM-12:30PM
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 16, Sunday, Sunday after the Elevation of the Cross
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
November 17 Retreat on Stewardship
Archdeacon Saed Rihani from St. Mary Church in Palos Heights Illinois will be leading us in a day long retreat focusing on the idea of Christian Stewardship titled "Our Pursuit of Holiness: Using our Time, Talent and Treasures" More information, including a schedule will be released in the coming weeks.
Wednesday Night Discussions, The Story of the Bible
We are hosting 11 successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us! Here is the schedule of topics and the corresponding section of the Bible that participants will be asked to read beforehand and be prepared to discuss.
September 12: The Goodness of Creation and Who is God Anyway?, Genesis 1-2
September 19: The Knowledge of Good and Evil, Genesis 3
September 26: Distrust and Deathliness, and God's Response, Genesis 4-11:26
October 3: There and Back Again: Faith and the Journey Home, Genesis 11:27-chapter 50
October 10: Rescue from Death, Freedom from Bondage, Steadfast Love, Exodus 1-40
October 17: Looking for the Salvation of Israel, samples from the Psalms and Prophets
October 24: Jesus: In the Beginning Was the Word, Who Do You Say that I Am?, John 1:1-14 and Mark 1-8
November 7: He Is Not Here, He Is Risen, Mark 9-16
November 14: The Heart of Jesus's Teachings, Matthew 5-7
November 28: The Birth of the Church, Love First and Last, Acts 1-3, Romans 12, I Corinthians 13
December 5: Last Things, I Corinthians 15, I Thessalonians 4-5, Revelation 20-22
December 12: Fellowship Meal
Change for Wednesday Evenings
Beginning Wednesday, September 12 and through the Fall, Akathist will begin at 6:50PM each Wednesday, to be followed immediately at 7:30PM by the series of discussions on the Bible organized by Lori Branch.
Parking Reminder
On weekends when there is a Hawkeyes home football game scheduled, it can be very difficult to find on-street parking in the neighborhood of the church. Keep in mind that the Chauncey Swan parking garage is just three blocks to the west of church on College Street.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “If any man would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for My sake and the Gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of Me and of My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” And He said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see theKingdom of God come with power.” (Mark 8:34-9:1)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"If you want to do spiritual work on yourselves, do not examine what others are doing around you; instead, have good thoughts about both the good and the bad you see in others. Regardless of the reason why someone does something, you must put a good thought in your mind. A good thought contains love; it disarms the other person and makes him behave properly... If you had spiritual health, you would see even the impure as pure. Just as you recognize the value of fruit, you would also recognize the value of manure because manure helps the fruit to grow. Whoever has good thoughts also has spiritual health, and what is evil can be changed into good."
+Saint Paisios, Spiritual Counsels, Volume III: Spiritual Struggle, p. 27-28.
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday September 2, 2018, 14th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
September 4, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 5, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ The Story of the Bible talk, 7:00PM at ICPL
September 6, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Dinner, 7:00PM
September 7, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Nativity of the Theotokos, 6:00PM
September 8, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy Class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 9, Sunday, Sunday before the Elevation of the Cross
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
September/October Calendars are Printed
Thanks to Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd) our printed calendars showing services and events for the next two months are ready for you to take. Look for them in the church narthex.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Congratulations
Fabian Muller-Dahlberg was received as a catechumen during liturgy this morning.
Liturgy for the Nativity of the Theotokos
On Friday September 7 at 6:00PM, we will commemorate the Nativity of the Theotokos with Vesperal Liturgy.
Orthodox Christian Fellowship
We will meet for a home-cooked meal, hosted by Sanjoy, Elsa and Paul, on Thursday, September 6 at 7:00PM. RSVP to Lizzy Valentine (elizabeth-valentine@uiowa.edu) if you are planning on coming to the dinner
Introduction to Orthodoxy Classes
All who are interested are welcome to join in on a soon-to-start series of Intro to Orthodoxy classes which will be in the form of a book study and discussion. The book we will read through and discuss is "Know the Faith: A Handbook for Orthodox Christians and Inquirers" by Fr. Michael Shanbour. The book is available to purchase in the church bookstore for $21.95. Class will meet weekly on Saturdays at 3PM beginning on September 8. Contact Fr. Ignatius if you are interested and to reserve a book. We will meet for 11 sessions to cover the 11 chapters which are titled:
1. Church
2. Grace
3. Salvation
4. Justification by faith
5. Tradition and Scripture
6. Eucharist and Liturgical Worship
7. Ordination and Priesthood
8. Confession and Repentance
9. Icons, Veneration and Worship
10. The Intercessions of the Saints
11. Veneration of the Virgin Mary
The Story of the Bible
The Bible has been called the greatest story ever told. What is the story of the Bible? What are the special literary qualities of the Bible, and what does the literary dimension of the Bible mean for spiritual life today? Dr. Lori Branch explores these questions from the perspective of an Eastern Orthodox Christian and a literature professor who regularly teaches courses on the Bible. The lecture is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served and Q & A will follow. Wednesday, September 5, 7-8PM, Iowa City Public Library, Meeting Room A. Following this introductory lecture, we will host 11 additional and successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us!
Change for Wednesday Evenings
Beginning Wednesday, September 12 and through the Fall, Akathist will begin at 6:50PM each Wednesday, to be followed immediately at 7:30PM by the series of discussions on the Bible organized by Lori Branch.
Sunday School Starts on September 9
We will start our Sunday School program on Sunday, September 9. This year there will be two classes: pre-K-4 grade with Lori and 5-8 grades with Sanjoy. There will be no high school age class, but we are happy that three of our highschoolers, Anastasia, Luka and Josiah have agreed to help out with the younger children in their class. Another change from last year is that our Sunday School children will go to their classes immediately after they receive communion, leaving the nave before the final dismissal of liturgy. More specific information on these changes will be sent out to parents of Sunday School students soon.
News Regarding Fr. Elias and Kh. Irene Khouri
As Fr. Elias announced in person recently, he is being sent by Metropolitan Joseph to become the second priest at St. Elijah Church in the Oklahoma City area. His house in Iowa is already sold and a new one purchased in Oklahoma. We are hoping that Father will be able to be with us one last time on a Sunday in September before he relocates later that month. Congratulations to Fr. Elias and may God grant him and Kh. Irene many years and blessings as they pursue this new calling.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “No one has ascended into heaven but He who descended from heaven, the Son of man. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent His Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might besaved through Him.” (John 3:13-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world---the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever."
1 John 2:15-17
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
September 4, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
September 5, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 2:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ The Story of the Bible talk, 7:00PM at ICPL
September 6, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:15PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Dinner, 7:00PM
September 7, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Nativity of the Theotokos, 6:00PM
September 8, Saturday
+ Intro to Orthodoxy Class, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 9, Sunday, Sunday before the Elevation of the Cross
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour and Sunday School
Upcoming Events and Announcements
September/October Calendars are Printed
Thanks to Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd) our printed calendars showing services and events for the next two months are ready for you to take. Look for them in the church narthex.
Save the Date, Bishop's Visit
Bishop Anthony will make his next archpastoral visit with us in the Spring of 2019, on April 13-14, the fifth Sunday of Lent. Please mark your calendars and plan to be with the bishop that weekend.
Congratulations
Fabian Muller-Dahlberg was received as a catechumen during liturgy this morning.
Liturgy for the Nativity of the Theotokos
On Friday September 7 at 6:00PM, we will commemorate the Nativity of the Theotokos with Vesperal Liturgy.
Orthodox Christian Fellowship
We will meet for a home-cooked meal, hosted by Sanjoy, Elsa and Paul, on Thursday, September 6 at 7:00PM. RSVP to Lizzy Valentine (elizabeth-valentine@uiowa.edu) if you are planning on coming to the dinner
Introduction to Orthodoxy Classes
All who are interested are welcome to join in on a soon-to-start series of Intro to Orthodoxy classes which will be in the form of a book study and discussion. The book we will read through and discuss is "Know the Faith: A Handbook for Orthodox Christians and Inquirers" by Fr. Michael Shanbour. The book is available to purchase in the church bookstore for $21.95. Class will meet weekly on Saturdays at 3PM beginning on September 8. Contact Fr. Ignatius if you are interested and to reserve a book. We will meet for 11 sessions to cover the 11 chapters which are titled:
1. Church
2. Grace
3. Salvation
4. Justification by faith
5. Tradition and Scripture
6. Eucharist and Liturgical Worship
7. Ordination and Priesthood
8. Confession and Repentance
9. Icons, Veneration and Worship
10. The Intercessions of the Saints
11. Veneration of the Virgin Mary
The Story of the Bible
The Bible has been called the greatest story ever told. What is the story of the Bible? What are the special literary qualities of the Bible, and what does the literary dimension of the Bible mean for spiritual life today? Dr. Lori Branch explores these questions from the perspective of an Eastern Orthodox Christian and a literature professor who regularly teaches courses on the Bible. The lecture is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served and Q & A will follow. Wednesday, September 5, 7-8PM, Iowa City Public Library, Meeting Room A. Following this introductory lecture, we will host 11 additional and successive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us!
Change for Wednesday Evenings
Beginning Wednesday, September 12 and through the Fall, Akathist will begin at 6:50PM each Wednesday, to be followed immediately at 7:30PM by the series of discussions on the Bible organized by Lori Branch.
Sunday School Starts on September 9
We will start our Sunday School program on Sunday, September 9. This year there will be two classes: pre-K-4 grade with Lori and 5-8 grades with Sanjoy. There will be no high school age class, but we are happy that three of our highschoolers, Anastasia, Luka and Josiah have agreed to help out with the younger children in their class. Another change from last year is that our Sunday School children will go to their classes immediately after they receive communion, leaving the nave before the final dismissal of liturgy. More specific information on these changes will be sent out to parents of Sunday School students soon.
News Regarding Fr. Elias and Kh. Irene Khouri
As Fr. Elias announced in person recently, he is being sent by Metropolitan Joseph to become the second priest at St. Elijah Church in the Oklahoma City area. His house in Iowa is already sold and a new one purchased in Oklahoma. We are hoping that Father will be able to be with us one last time on a Sunday in September before he relocates later that month. Congratulations to Fr. Elias and may God grant him and Kh. Irene many years and blessings as they pursue this new calling.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said, “No one has ascended into heaven but He who descended from heaven, the Son of man. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent His Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might besaved through Him.” (John 3:13-17)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr and Fabian Muller-Dahlberg 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world---the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life--is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever."
1 John 2:15-17
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday August 26, 2018- 13th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
August 28, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Beheading of the Forerunner, 6:00PM
August 29, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
August 30, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Meeting at IMU, 7:00PM
August 31, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 1, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 2, Sunday, 14th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Memory Eternal
Today, on the one year anniversary of her repose, we prayed for the soul of Tatiana Pyasetskaya, beloved wife of Dmitry Kallestinov and beloved mother of Elena Kallestinova and Dmitry Kallestinov. May her memory be eternal!
September/October Calendars are Printed
Thanks to Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd) for our printed calendars showing services and events for the next two months are ready for you to take. Look for them in the church narthex.
Happy New Year
The Church begins its liturgical year a new on September 1. To read more about why, and what this means, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/happy-church-new-year
News Regarding Fr. Elias and Kh. Irene Khouri
As Fr. Elias announced in person last Sunday, he is being sent by Metropolitan Joseph to become the second priest at St. Elijah Church in the Oklahoma City area. His house in Iowa is already sold and a new one purchased in Oklahoma. We are hoping that Father will be able to be with us one last time on a Sunday in September before he relocates later that month. Congratulations to Fr. Elias and may God grant him and Kh. Irene many years and blessings as they pursue this new calling.
No Retreat on September 1
The Parish Council has decided to postpone the announced retreat that was scheduled for September 1.
New Office Hours
With the start of the new school year, the Valentine family schedule changes and Fr. Ignatius is adjusting his office hours accordingly. The new hours that he will be available at church are: Tuesdays- 12:30PM-3:00PM; Wednesdays- 12:30PM-4:00PM; Thursdays- 11:00AM-3:00PM and Fridays- 9:15AM-12:30PM. Instead of 9th Hour Prayers at 3:00PM on Fridays, Fr. Ignatius will now offer 3rd Hour Prayers on Fridays at 9:00AM.
Liturgy for the Forerunner and Baptist John
On Tuesday August 28 at 6:00 PM, we will commemorate the Beheading of the Forerunner and Baptist John with Liturgy.
Orthodox Christian Fellowship
Orthodox Christian Fellowship, our college-aged group will have their first meeting of the school year on Thursday, August 30 at 7:00PM in the River Room Two of the Iowa Memorial Union (125 Madison St.) All college aged students (undergraduate and graduates) are welcome. We will meet for a home-cooked meal, hosted by Sanjoy, Elsa and Paul, on Thursday, September 6 at 7:00PM. RSVP to Lizzy Valentine (elizabeth-valentine@uiowa.edu) if you are planning on coming to the dinner
The Story of the Bible
The Bible has been called the greatest story ever told. What is the story of the Bible? What are the special literary qualities of the Bible, and what does the literary dimension of the Bible mean for spiritual life today? Dr. Lori Branch explores these questions from the perspective of an Eastern Orthodox Christian and a literature professor who regularly teaches courses on the Bible. The lecture is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served and Q & A will follow. Wednesday, September 5, 7-8PM, Iowa City Public Library, Meeting Room A. A poster advertising this talk is attached. Share it with people who might be interested. Print some copies out and post them around town!
Following this introductory lecture, we will host 11 additional and succesive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us!
Introduction to Orthodoxy Classes
All who are interested are welcome to join in on a soon-to-start series of Intro to Orthodoxy classes which will be in the form of a book study and discussion. The book we will read through and discuss is "Know the Faith: A Handbook for Orthodox Christians and Inquirers" by Fr. Michael Shanbour. The book is available to purchase in the church bookstore for $21.95. Class will meet weekly on Saturdays at 3PM beginning on September 8. Contact Fr. Ignatius if you are interested and to reserve a book. We will meet for 11 sessions to cover the 11 chapters which are titled:
1. Church
2. Grace
3. Salvation
4. Justification by faith
5. Tradition and Scripture
6. Eucharist and Liturgical Worship
7. Ordination and Priesthood
8. Confession and Repentance
9. Icons, Veneration and Worship
10. The Intercessions of the Saints
11. Veneration of the Virgin Mary
Change for Wednesday Evenings
Beginning Wednesday, September 12 and through the Fall, Akathist will begin at 6:50PM each Wednesday, to be followed immediately at 7:30PM by the series of discussions on the Bible organized by Lori Branch.
Sunday School Starts on September 9
We will start our Sunday School program on Sunday, September 9. This year there will be two classes: pre-K-4 grade with Lori and 5-8 grades with Sanjoy. There will be no high school age class, but we are happy that three of our highschoolers, Anastasia, Luka and Josiah have agreed to help out with the younger children in their class. Another change from last year is that our Sunday School children will go to their classes immediately after they receive communion, leaving the nave before the final dismissal of liturgy. More specific information on these changes will be sent out to parents of Sunday School students soon.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a marriage feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the marriage feast; but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, Behold, I have made ready my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves are killed, and everything is ready; come to the marriage feast.’ But they made light of it and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the thoroughfares, and invite to the marriage feast as many as you find.’ And those servants went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good; so the wedding hall was filled with guests. But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment; and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, and cast him into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Matthew 22:2-14)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I sanctified you."
Jeremiah 1:5
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
August 28, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for the Beheading of the Forerunner, 6:00PM
August 29, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
August 30, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ OCF Meeting at IMU, 7:00PM
August 31, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
September 1, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
September 2, Sunday, 14th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Memory Eternal
Today, on the one year anniversary of her repose, we prayed for the soul of Tatiana Pyasetskaya, beloved wife of Dmitry Kallestinov and beloved mother of Elena Kallestinova and Dmitry Kallestinov. May her memory be eternal!
September/October Calendars are Printed
Thanks to Subdeacon Panteleimon (Todd) for our printed calendars showing services and events for the next two months are ready for you to take. Look for them in the church narthex.
Happy New Year
The Church begins its liturgical year a new on September 1. To read more about why, and what this means, go to: http://ww1.antiochian.org/happy-church-new-year
News Regarding Fr. Elias and Kh. Irene Khouri
As Fr. Elias announced in person last Sunday, he is being sent by Metropolitan Joseph to become the second priest at St. Elijah Church in the Oklahoma City area. His house in Iowa is already sold and a new one purchased in Oklahoma. We are hoping that Father will be able to be with us one last time on a Sunday in September before he relocates later that month. Congratulations to Fr. Elias and may God grant him and Kh. Irene many years and blessings as they pursue this new calling.
No Retreat on September 1
The Parish Council has decided to postpone the announced retreat that was scheduled for September 1.
New Office Hours
With the start of the new school year, the Valentine family schedule changes and Fr. Ignatius is adjusting his office hours accordingly. The new hours that he will be available at church are: Tuesdays- 12:30PM-3:00PM; Wednesdays- 12:30PM-4:00PM; Thursdays- 11:00AM-3:00PM and Fridays- 9:15AM-12:30PM. Instead of 9th Hour Prayers at 3:00PM on Fridays, Fr. Ignatius will now offer 3rd Hour Prayers on Fridays at 9:00AM.
Liturgy for the Forerunner and Baptist John
On Tuesday August 28 at 6:00 PM, we will commemorate the Beheading of the Forerunner and Baptist John with Liturgy.
Orthodox Christian Fellowship
Orthodox Christian Fellowship, our college-aged group will have their first meeting of the school year on Thursday, August 30 at 7:00PM in the River Room Two of the Iowa Memorial Union (125 Madison St.) All college aged students (undergraduate and graduates) are welcome. We will meet for a home-cooked meal, hosted by Sanjoy, Elsa and Paul, on Thursday, September 6 at 7:00PM. RSVP to Lizzy Valentine (elizabeth-valentine@uiowa.edu) if you are planning on coming to the dinner
The Story of the Bible
The Bible has been called the greatest story ever told. What is the story of the Bible? What are the special literary qualities of the Bible, and what does the literary dimension of the Bible mean for spiritual life today? Dr. Lori Branch explores these questions from the perspective of an Eastern Orthodox Christian and a literature professor who regularly teaches courses on the Bible. The lecture is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served and Q & A will follow. Wednesday, September 5, 7-8PM, Iowa City Public Library, Meeting Room A. A poster advertising this talk is attached. Share it with people who might be interested. Print some copies out and post them around town!
Following this introductory lecture, we will host 11 additional and succesive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-8:15PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us!
Introduction to Orthodoxy Classes
All who are interested are welcome to join in on a soon-to-start series of Intro to Orthodoxy classes which will be in the form of a book study and discussion. The book we will read through and discuss is "Know the Faith: A Handbook for Orthodox Christians and Inquirers" by Fr. Michael Shanbour. The book is available to purchase in the church bookstore for $21.95. Class will meet weekly on Saturdays at 3PM beginning on September 8. Contact Fr. Ignatius if you are interested and to reserve a book. We will meet for 11 sessions to cover the 11 chapters which are titled:
1. Church
2. Grace
3. Salvation
4. Justification by faith
5. Tradition and Scripture
6. Eucharist and Liturgical Worship
7. Ordination and Priesthood
8. Confession and Repentance
9. Icons, Veneration and Worship
10. The Intercessions of the Saints
11. Veneration of the Virgin Mary
Change for Wednesday Evenings
Beginning Wednesday, September 12 and through the Fall, Akathist will begin at 6:50PM each Wednesday, to be followed immediately at 7:30PM by the series of discussions on the Bible organized by Lori Branch.
Sunday School Starts on September 9
We will start our Sunday School program on Sunday, September 9. This year there will be two classes: pre-K-4 grade with Lori and 5-8 grades with Sanjoy. There will be no high school age class, but we are happy that three of our highschoolers, Anastasia, Luka and Josiah have agreed to help out with the younger children in their class. Another change from last year is that our Sunday School children will go to their classes immediately after they receive communion, leaving the nave before the final dismissal of liturgy. More specific information on these changes will be sent out to parents of Sunday School students soon.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a marriage feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the marriage feast; but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, Behold, I have made ready my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves are killed, and everything is ready; come to the marriage feast.’ But they made light of it and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the thoroughfares, and invite to the marriage feast as many as you find.’ And those servants went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good; so the wedding hall was filled with guests. But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment; and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, and cast him into the outer darkness; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Matthew 22:2-14)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I sanctified you."
Jeremiah 1:5
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday August 19, 2018, 12th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
August 21, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vespers in Kalona, 7:00PM
August 22, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
August 23, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 24, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
August 25, Saturday
+ Sts. Martha and Mary Women's Group meeting, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 26, Sunday, 13th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Memory Eternal
Memorial flowers and prayers were offered today for several relatives of Fr. Elias and Kh. Irene Khouri. May their memories be eternal!
No Retreat on September 1
The Parish Council has decided to postpone the announced retreat that was scheduled for September 1.
Vespers in Kalona
Vespers will be held at the United Christian and Baptist Church (401 E Ave.) in Kalona on Tuesday, August 21 at 7:00PM.
New Office Hours
With the start of the new school year, the Valentine family schedule changes and Fr. Ignatius is adjusting his office hours accordingly. The new hours that he will be available at church are: Tuesdays- 12:30PM-3:00PM; Wednesdays- 12:30PM-4:00PM; Thursdays- 11:00AM-3:00PM and Fridays- 9:15AM-12:30PM. Instead of 9th Hour Prayers at 3:00PM on Fridays, Fr. Ignatius will now offer 3rd Hour Prayers on Fridays at 9:00AM.
Blessing the New School Year
On Sunday, August 26, at the end of liturgy, all students and teachers will be prayed for and blessed at the beginning of this new school year.
Liturgy for the Forerunner and Baptist John
On Tuesday August 28 at 6:00PM, we will commemorate the Beheading of the Forerunner and Baptist John with Liturgy.
Orthodox Christian Fellowship
Orthodox Christian Fellowship, our college-aged group will have their first meeting of the school year on Thursday, August 30 at 7:00PM in the River Room Two of the Iowa Memorial Union (125 Madison St.) All college aged students (undergraduate and graduates) are welcome.
The Story of the Bible
The Bible has been called the greatest story ever told. What is the story of the Bible? What are the special literary qualities of the Bible, and what does the literary dimension of the Bible mean for spiritual life today? Dr. Lori Branch explores these questions from the perspective of an Eastern Orthodox Christian and a literature professor who regularly teaches courses on the Bible. The lecture is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served and Q & A will follow. Wednesday, September 5, 7-8PM, Iowa City Public Library, Meeting Room A. A poster advertising this talk is attached. Share it with people who might be interested. Print some copies out and post them around town.!
Following this introductory lecture, we will host 11 additional and succesive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings at 7:30PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us!
Change for Wednesday Evenings
Beginning Wednesday, September 12 and through the Fall, Akathist will begin at 6:50PM each Wednesday, to be followed immediately at 7:30PM by the series of discussions on the Bible organized by Lori Branch.
Sunday School Starts on September 9
We will start our Sunday School program on Sunday, September 9. This year there will be two classes: pre-K-4 grade with Lori and 5-8 grades with Sanjoy. There will be no high school age class, but we are happy that three of our highschoolers, Anastasia, Luka and Josiah have agreed to help out with the younger children in their class. Another change from last year is that our Sunday School children will go to their classes immediately after they receive communion, leaving the nave before the final dismissal of liturgy. More specific information on these changes will be sent out to parents of Sunday School students soon.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “There was a householder who planted a vineyard, and set ahedge around it, and dug a wine press in it, and built a tower, and let it out to tenants, and went into another country. When the season of fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants, to get his fruit; and the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. Again he sent other servants, more than the first; and they did the same to them. Afterward he sent hisson to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, ‘This is the heir; come, let us kill him and have his inheritance.’ And they took himand cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. When therefore the owner of the vineyard comes,what will he do to those tenants?” They said to him, “He will put those wretches to a miserabledeath, and let out the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.” Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: ‘The very stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes?’” (Matthew 21:33-42)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
“It is the property of angels,’ he continued, ‘not to fall, and even, as some say, it is quite impossible for them to fall. It is the property of men to fall, and to rise again as often as this may happen. But it is the property of devils, and devils alone, not to rise once they have fallen.”
St. John Climacus in The Ladder of Divine Ascent, 4.31
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
August 21, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vespers in Kalona, 7:00PM
August 22, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 12:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
August 23, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 24, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00AM
+ Office Hours, 9:15AM-12:30PM
August 25, Saturday
+ Sts. Martha and Mary Women's Group meeting, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 26, Sunday, 13th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Memory Eternal
Memorial flowers and prayers were offered today for several relatives of Fr. Elias and Kh. Irene Khouri. May their memories be eternal!
No Retreat on September 1
The Parish Council has decided to postpone the announced retreat that was scheduled for September 1.
Vespers in Kalona
Vespers will be held at the United Christian and Baptist Church (401 E Ave.) in Kalona on Tuesday, August 21 at 7:00PM.
New Office Hours
With the start of the new school year, the Valentine family schedule changes and Fr. Ignatius is adjusting his office hours accordingly. The new hours that he will be available at church are: Tuesdays- 12:30PM-3:00PM; Wednesdays- 12:30PM-4:00PM; Thursdays- 11:00AM-3:00PM and Fridays- 9:15AM-12:30PM. Instead of 9th Hour Prayers at 3:00PM on Fridays, Fr. Ignatius will now offer 3rd Hour Prayers on Fridays at 9:00AM.
Blessing the New School Year
On Sunday, August 26, at the end of liturgy, all students and teachers will be prayed for and blessed at the beginning of this new school year.
Liturgy for the Forerunner and Baptist John
On Tuesday August 28 at 6:00PM, we will commemorate the Beheading of the Forerunner and Baptist John with Liturgy.
Orthodox Christian Fellowship
Orthodox Christian Fellowship, our college-aged group will have their first meeting of the school year on Thursday, August 30 at 7:00PM in the River Room Two of the Iowa Memorial Union (125 Madison St.) All college aged students (undergraduate and graduates) are welcome.
The Story of the Bible
The Bible has been called the greatest story ever told. What is the story of the Bible? What are the special literary qualities of the Bible, and what does the literary dimension of the Bible mean for spiritual life today? Dr. Lori Branch explores these questions from the perspective of an Eastern Orthodox Christian and a literature professor who regularly teaches courses on the Bible. The lecture is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served and Q & A will follow. Wednesday, September 5, 7-8PM, Iowa City Public Library, Meeting Room A. A poster advertising this talk is attached. Share it with people who might be interested. Print some copies out and post them around town.!
Following this introductory lecture, we will host 11 additional and succesive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings at 7:30PM this Fall. Spread the word and join us!
Change for Wednesday Evenings
Beginning Wednesday, September 12 and through the Fall, Akathist will begin at 6:50PM each Wednesday, to be followed immediately at 7:30PM by the series of discussions on the Bible organized by Lori Branch.
Sunday School Starts on September 9
We will start our Sunday School program on Sunday, September 9. This year there will be two classes: pre-K-4 grade with Lori and 5-8 grades with Sanjoy. There will be no high school age class, but we are happy that three of our highschoolers, Anastasia, Luka and Josiah have agreed to help out with the younger children in their class. Another change from last year is that our Sunday School children will go to their classes immediately after they receive communion, leaving the nave before the final dismissal of liturgy. More specific information on these changes will be sent out to parents of Sunday School students soon.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “There was a householder who planted a vineyard, and set ahedge around it, and dug a wine press in it, and built a tower, and let it out to tenants, and went into another country. When the season of fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants, to get his fruit; and the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. Again he sent other servants, more than the first; and they did the same to them. Afterward he sent hisson to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, ‘This is the heir; come, let us kill him and have his inheritance.’ And they took himand cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. When therefore the owner of the vineyard comes,what will he do to those tenants?” They said to him, “He will put those wretches to a miserabledeath, and let out the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.” Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: ‘The very stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes?’” (Matthew 21:33-42)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
“It is the property of angels,’ he continued, ‘not to fall, and even, as some say, it is quite impossible for them to fall. It is the property of men to fall, and to rise again as often as this may happen. But it is the property of devils, and devils alone, not to rise once they have fallen.”
St. John Climacus in The Ladder of Divine Ascent, 4.31
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday August 12, 2018, Afterfeast of the Transfiguration
This Week's Services and Events
August 13, Monday
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 14, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for Dormition, 6:00PM
August 15, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
August 16, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 17, Friday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 18, Saturday
+ Food Pantry Open, 11:00AM-12:30PM
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 19, Sunday, 12th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Dormition Fast
From August 1-14, we participate in the Dormition Fast, preparing for, and then marking the falling asleep or the death of the Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. During this time, the church offers extra services. This Paraklesis service, as it is called, is a service of consolation. We ask the Virgin Mary for her prayers in our struggles in life, and we come to God in faith that He loves us and wants to heal us. This service will be offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:00PM during these two weeks. The Dormition Fast concludes with Vesperal Liturgy celebrating the Dormition of the Theotokos at 6:00PM on August 14.
Congratulations
Alli Rockwell and her daughter Lula were churched today. May God grant them many years!
Vespers in Kalona
Vespers will be held at the United Christian and Baptist Church (401 E Ave.) in Kalona on Tuesday, August 21 at 7:00PM.
Blessing the New School Year
On Sunday, August 26, at the end of liturgy, all students and teachers will be prayed for and blessed at the beginning of this new school year.
Recommended Orthodox Children's Movie "Seraphima's Extraordinary Adventures"
Seraphima's Extraordinary Adventures is a well done, animated movie made in Russia, with English subtitles. You can watch it at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNLuIfs7rzA
The Story of the Bible
The Bible has been called the greatest story ever told. What is the story of the Bible? What are the special literary qualities of the Bible, and what does the literary dimension of the Bible mean for spiritual life today? Dr. Lori Branch explores these questions from the perspective of an Eastern Orthodox Christian and a literature professor who regularly teaches courses on the Bible. The lecture is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served and Q & A will follow. Wednesday, September 5, 7-8PM, Iowa City Public Library, Meeting Room A.
Following this introductory lecture, we will host 11 additional and succesive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings this Fall. Spread the word and join us!
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, a young man came up to Jesus, kneeling and saying, “Good Teacher, what good deed must I do, to have eternal life?” And He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” He said to Him, “Which?” And Jesus said, “You shall not kill, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not bear false witness, honor your father and mother, and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” The young man said to Him, “All these I have observed; what do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” When the young man heard this, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions. And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:16-26)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"The Apostolic Faith must be passed down from father to son; and from mother to daughter. Even those who are not our children according to the flesh can become our spiritual children when we decide to behave towards them like responsible parents. This is truly what it means to share the Gospel."
His Eminence, Metropolitan JOSEPH
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
August 13, Monday
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 14, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Vesperal Liturgy for Dormition, 6:00PM
August 15, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
August 16, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 17, Friday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 18, Saturday
+ Food Pantry Open, 11:00AM-12:30PM
+ Parish Council meeting, 2:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 19, Sunday, 12th Sunday after Pentecost
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Dormition Fast
From August 1-14, we participate in the Dormition Fast, preparing for, and then marking the falling asleep or the death of the Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. During this time, the church offers extra services. This Paraklesis service, as it is called, is a service of consolation. We ask the Virgin Mary for her prayers in our struggles in life, and we come to God in faith that He loves us and wants to heal us. This service will be offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:00PM during these two weeks. The Dormition Fast concludes with Vesperal Liturgy celebrating the Dormition of the Theotokos at 6:00PM on August 14.
Congratulations
Alli Rockwell and her daughter Lula were churched today. May God grant them many years!
Vespers in Kalona
Vespers will be held at the United Christian and Baptist Church (401 E Ave.) in Kalona on Tuesday, August 21 at 7:00PM.
Blessing the New School Year
On Sunday, August 26, at the end of liturgy, all students and teachers will be prayed for and blessed at the beginning of this new school year.
Recommended Orthodox Children's Movie "Seraphima's Extraordinary Adventures"
Seraphima's Extraordinary Adventures is a well done, animated movie made in Russia, with English subtitles. You can watch it at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNLuIfs7rzA
The Story of the Bible
The Bible has been called the greatest story ever told. What is the story of the Bible? What are the special literary qualities of the Bible, and what does the literary dimension of the Bible mean for spiritual life today? Dr. Lori Branch explores these questions from the perspective of an Eastern Orthodox Christian and a literature professor who regularly teaches courses on the Bible. The lecture is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served and Q & A will follow. Wednesday, September 5, 7-8PM, Iowa City Public Library, Meeting Room A.
Following this introductory lecture, we will host 11 additional and succesive discussions on the Bible at St. Raphael Church on Wednesday evenings this Fall. Spread the word and join us!
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, a young man came up to Jesus, kneeling and saying, “Good Teacher, what good deed must I do, to have eternal life?” And He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” He said to Him, “Which?” And Jesus said, “You shall not kill, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not bear false witness, honor your father and mother, and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” The young man said to Him, “All these I have observed; what do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” When the young man heard this, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions. And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:16-26)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"The Apostolic Faith must be passed down from father to son; and from mother to daughter. Even those who are not our children according to the flesh can become our spiritual children when we decide to behave towards them like responsible parents. This is truly what it means to share the Gospel."
His Eminence, Metropolitan JOSEPH
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday August 5, 2018, Feast of the Transfiguration of our Lord (transferred)
This Week's Services and Events
August 6, Monday
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 7, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 8, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 9, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 10, Friday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 11, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 12, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Dormition Fast
From August 1-14, we participate in the Dormition Fast, preparing for, and then marking the falling asleep or the death of the Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. During this time, the church offers extra services. This Paraklesis service, as it is called, is a service of consolation. We ask the Virgin Mary for her prayers in our struggles in life, and we come to God in faith that He loves us and wants to heal us. This service will be offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:00PM during these two weeks. The Dormition Fast concludes with Vesperal Liturgy celebrating the Dormition of the Theotokos at 6:00PM on August 14.
Building Improvements
Our fellowship hall is undergoing a much-needed repainting and once that project is done, we will also have newer, better lighting in place. We have recently re-established electricity to our sign in the front, and improved the lighting in the front yard lamp posts, and added a timer to control lighting on the porch, making our building safer and more attractive. In addition, we have gained more control over the lighting levels for the nave of the church by breaking one circuit into three and installing a dimmer switch. Thank you to all who have been working on these projects.
New Icon Shrine of St. Raphael
Thanks to Christian Morey who has made and mounted a wooden icon shrine for the handpainted icon of St. Raphael that we were given by Georgian iconographer Lasha Kintsurashvili. This wonderful addition to our church is now in our narthex.
Thank You
Thank you to Newman Abuissa and those working with him, for cleaning out our rain gutters.
The Value of Monks and Nuns to the Church, and Two Opportunities to Help
Monastics provide a service for the Church at large, for they help preserve her saltiness, and without them, the Church would be in perpetual danger of losing her saving savour (see Matthew 5:13). God calls His Church to be in the world but not of the world. Monks and nuns, in their monasteries, intensely embody the truth that the Church belongs ultimately not to this age, but to the age to come. Therefore, monasticism robustly presents Church’s eschatological nature, an in-your-face witness that we are all just sojourners in this world, and that we are just visiting this planet. Furthermore, the prayers of monks and nuns, and the prayers of all who pray seriously and thoroughly, literally sustain the world and all of us. The existence of monks and nuns is of great benefit to us.
Here are two opportunities to help monks and nuns with their needs, so that they can continue to perform their mission, which includes praying for all of us. The Hermitage of the Holy Cross is a men's monastery in West Virginia. Recently, they have experienced two significant landslides which threaten a building and several utility lines. They are trying to raise funds to make the repairs necessary to fix this problem. To learn more and/or to donate, go to: https://www.holycross-hermitage.com/blogs/news/fundraising-for-urgent-landslide-repairs St. Paisius Monastery is a women's monastery in Arizona. They provide hospitality to thousands of spiritual pilgrims each year, but they do not have a dining hall (trapeza) large enough to properly accommodate all of their guests. They are in the process of building a larger dining hall and are raising the necessary funds to complete it and equip and furnish it. To learn more and/or to donate, go to: http://stpaisiusmonastery.org/about-the-monastery/building-projects/monastery-dining-hall-building-project/ Fr. Ignatius has visited both of these monasteries and can vouch for the reality of these needs and the worthiness of these monasteries and their monastics. Help them if you can.
Would You Like to Learn What it Looks Like When God Grabs Hold of a Person and Fills Them With His Grace?
One of our most recently glorified saints, St. Porphyrios of Kafsokalyvia, is an example of such a person. The book, by and about him, titled "Wounded by Love" is inspiring and spiritually enlightening. Fr. Ignatius recommends this book strongly to anyone who wants to understand God's love for mankind and the manner in which He can make us like Him by showering us with His grace. To whet your appetite and to learn a bit about St. Porphyrios and his teachings, watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBxfgsTYhnk&t=278s "Simply, Humbly, Gently: Saint Porphyrios and the Way of Love"
Recommended Orthodox Children's Movie "Seraphima's Extraordinary Adventures"
Seraphima's Extraordinary Adventures is a well done, animated movie made in Russia, with English subtitles. You can watch it at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNLuIfs7rzA
Summer Coffee Hour Change
Our fellowship hall is now rearranged to take advantage of the Sunday School space that is not being used until September. Those who want to participate in the planned interactive effort, can go to the "icebreaker" tables on that side of the room. Those who do not want to do that can sit at the other tables and continue on as they have in past coffee hours. Of course, people can move back and forth between both sides of the room at will. Everyone should know that they are welcome to stay for coffee hour and participate in whatever aspect of it that they are comfortable with. Next Sunday, the conversation question will be, "What's you favorite service or event of the liturgical year?"
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the reckoning, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents; and as he could not pay, his lord ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ And out of pity for him the lord of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. But that same servant, as he went out, came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and seizing him by the throat he said, ‘Pay what you owe.’ So his fellow servant fell down and besought him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.’ He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their lord all that had taken place. Then his lord summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you besought me; and should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ And in anger his lord delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. So also My heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.” (Matthew 18:23-35)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"When the Spirit of God descends upon a man and overshadows him with the fullness of His outpouring, then his soul overflows with a joy not to be described, for the Holy Spirit turns to joy whatever He touches. "
St. Seraphim of Sarov
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
August 6, Monday
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 7, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 8, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 9, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 1:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 10, Friday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 11, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 12, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Dormition Fast
From August 1-14, we participate in the Dormition Fast, preparing for, and then marking the falling asleep or the death of the Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. During this time, the church offers extra services. This Paraklesis service, as it is called, is a service of consolation. We ask the Virgin Mary for her prayers in our struggles in life, and we come to God in faith that He loves us and wants to heal us. This service will be offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:00PM during these two weeks. The Dormition Fast concludes with Vesperal Liturgy celebrating the Dormition of the Theotokos at 6:00PM on August 14.
Building Improvements
Our fellowship hall is undergoing a much-needed repainting and once that project is done, we will also have newer, better lighting in place. We have recently re-established electricity to our sign in the front, and improved the lighting in the front yard lamp posts, and added a timer to control lighting on the porch, making our building safer and more attractive. In addition, we have gained more control over the lighting levels for the nave of the church by breaking one circuit into three and installing a dimmer switch. Thank you to all who have been working on these projects.
New Icon Shrine of St. Raphael
Thanks to Christian Morey who has made and mounted a wooden icon shrine for the handpainted icon of St. Raphael that we were given by Georgian iconographer Lasha Kintsurashvili. This wonderful addition to our church is now in our narthex.
Thank You
Thank you to Newman Abuissa and those working with him, for cleaning out our rain gutters.
The Value of Monks and Nuns to the Church, and Two Opportunities to Help
Monastics provide a service for the Church at large, for they help preserve her saltiness, and without them, the Church would be in perpetual danger of losing her saving savour (see Matthew 5:13). God calls His Church to be in the world but not of the world. Monks and nuns, in their monasteries, intensely embody the truth that the Church belongs ultimately not to this age, but to the age to come. Therefore, monasticism robustly presents Church’s eschatological nature, an in-your-face witness that we are all just sojourners in this world, and that we are just visiting this planet. Furthermore, the prayers of monks and nuns, and the prayers of all who pray seriously and thoroughly, literally sustain the world and all of us. The existence of monks and nuns is of great benefit to us.
Here are two opportunities to help monks and nuns with their needs, so that they can continue to perform their mission, which includes praying for all of us. The Hermitage of the Holy Cross is a men's monastery in West Virginia. Recently, they have experienced two significant landslides which threaten a building and several utility lines. They are trying to raise funds to make the repairs necessary to fix this problem. To learn more and/or to donate, go to: https://www.holycross-hermitage.com/blogs/news/fundraising-for-urgent-landslide-repairs St. Paisius Monastery is a women's monastery in Arizona. They provide hospitality to thousands of spiritual pilgrims each year, but they do not have a dining hall (trapeza) large enough to properly accommodate all of their guests. They are in the process of building a larger dining hall and are raising the necessary funds to complete it and equip and furnish it. To learn more and/or to donate, go to: http://stpaisiusmonastery.org/about-the-monastery/building-projects/monastery-dining-hall-building-project/ Fr. Ignatius has visited both of these monasteries and can vouch for the reality of these needs and the worthiness of these monasteries and their monastics. Help them if you can.
Would You Like to Learn What it Looks Like When God Grabs Hold of a Person and Fills Them With His Grace?
One of our most recently glorified saints, St. Porphyrios of Kafsokalyvia, is an example of such a person. The book, by and about him, titled "Wounded by Love" is inspiring and spiritually enlightening. Fr. Ignatius recommends this book strongly to anyone who wants to understand God's love for mankind and the manner in which He can make us like Him by showering us with His grace. To whet your appetite and to learn a bit about St. Porphyrios and his teachings, watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBxfgsTYhnk&t=278s "Simply, Humbly, Gently: Saint Porphyrios and the Way of Love"
Recommended Orthodox Children's Movie "Seraphima's Extraordinary Adventures"
Seraphima's Extraordinary Adventures is a well done, animated movie made in Russia, with English subtitles. You can watch it at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNLuIfs7rzA
Summer Coffee Hour Change
Our fellowship hall is now rearranged to take advantage of the Sunday School space that is not being used until September. Those who want to participate in the planned interactive effort, can go to the "icebreaker" tables on that side of the room. Those who do not want to do that can sit at the other tables and continue on as they have in past coffee hours. Of course, people can move back and forth between both sides of the room at will. Everyone should know that they are welcome to stay for coffee hour and participate in whatever aspect of it that they are comfortable with. Next Sunday, the conversation question will be, "What's you favorite service or event of the liturgical year?"
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord spoke this parable: “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the reckoning, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents; and as he could not pay, his lord ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ And out of pity for him the lord of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. But that same servant, as he went out, came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and seizing him by the throat he said, ‘Pay what you owe.’ So his fellow servant fell down and besought him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.’ He refused and went and put him in prison until he should pay the debt. When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their lord all that had taken place. Then his lord summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you besought me; and should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ And in anger his lord delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. So also My heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.” (Matthew 18:23-35)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"When the Spirit of God descends upon a man and overshadows him with the fullness of His outpouring, then his soul overflows with a joy not to be described, for the Holy Spirit turns to joy whatever He touches. "
St. Seraphim of Sarov
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday July 29, 2018, 9th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
July 31, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 1, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 2, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 3, Friday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 4, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 5, Sunday (Feast of the Transfiguration, transferred)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Looking Ahead to August
From August 1-14, we participate in the Dormition Fast, preparing for, and then marking the falling asleep or the death of the Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. During this time, the church offers extra services. This Paraklesis service, as it is called, is a service of consolation. We ask the Virgin Mary for her prayers in our struggles in life, and we come to God in faith that He loves us and wants to heal us. This service will be offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:00PM during these two weeks. The Dormition Fast concludes with Vesperal Liturgy celebrating the Dormition of the Theotokos at 6:00PM on August 14.
Blessing of Grapes
On the Feast of the Transfiguration, which we will celebrate next Sunday August 5, it is traditional to bless grapes and other fruit, thanking God for His bountiful harvest. All are welcomed to bring grapes and fruit to be blessed at the end of Liturgy.
So Long, Farewell
We were blessed to have Derick Mattern with us at St. Raphael these last two years while he completed his master's degree. Derick has now moved on and we wish him all the best. He says we may see him for a visit in the future. May God grant him many years!
A Note to Our Choir
"Dear St. Raphael Choir,
Thank you very much for your beautiful musical contribution to our ceremony and for all your work in preparation. It meant a lot to us to have you all there in our ceremony.
In Christ,
Matthew and Katherine"
The Value of Monks and Nuns to the Church, and Two Opportunities to Help
Monastics provide a service for the Church at large, for they help preserve her saltiness, and without them, the Church would be in perpetual danger of losing her saving savour (see Matthew 5:13). God calls His Church to be in the world but not of the world. Monks and nuns, in their monasteries, intensely embody the truth that the Church belongs ultimately not to this age, but to the age to come. Therefore, monasticism robustly presents Church’s eschatological nature, an in-your-face witness that we are all just sojourners in this world, and that we are just visiting this planet. Furthermore, the prayers of monks and nuns, and the prayers of all who pray seriously and thoroughly, literally sustain the world and all of us. The existence of monks and nuns is of great benefit to us.
Here are two opportunities to help monks and nuns with their needs, so that they can continue to perform their mission, which includes praying for all of us. The Hermitage of the Holy Cross is a men's monastery in West Virginia. Recently, they have experienced two significant landslides which threaten a building and several utility lines. They are trying to raise funds to make the repairs necessary to fix this problem. To learn more and/or to donate, go to: https://www.holycross-hermitage.com/blogs/news/fundraising-for-urgent-landslide-repairs St. Paisius Monastery is a women's monastery in Arizona. They provide hospitality to thousands of spiritual pilgrims each year, but they do not have a dining hall (trapeza) large enough to properly accommodate all of their guests. They are in the process of building a larger dining hall and are raising the necessary funds to complete it and equip and furnish it. To learn more and/or to donate, go to: http://stpaisiusmonastery.org/about-the-monastery/building-projects/monastery-dining-hall-building-project/ Fr. Ignatius has visited both of these monasteries and can vouch for the reality of these needs and the worthiness of these monasteries and their monastics. Help them if you can.
Would You Like to Learn What it Looks Like When God Grabs Hold of a Person and Fills Them With His Grace?
One of our most recently glorified saints, St. Porphyrios of Kafsokalyvia, is an example of such a person. The book, by and about him, titled "Wounded by Love" is inspiring and spiritually enlightening. Fr. Ignatius recommends this book strongly to anyone who wants to understand God's love for mankind and the manner in which He can make us like Him by showering us with His grace. To whet your appetite and to learn a bit about St. Porphyrios and his teachings, watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBxfgsTYhnk&t=278s "Simply, Humbly, Gently: Saint Porphyrios and the Way of Love"
A Good Source for Orthodox Christian Children's Books
Potamitis Publishing (http://orthodoxchildrensbooks.com) is an excellent source for well done, colorful children's books relating to our Orthodox faith. They publish dozens of different titles in many different languages (including English!) A representative of the company will be at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids on Sunday, August 5, if you want to see a large selection of the books in person.
Summer Coffee Hour Change
Our fellowship hall is now rearranged to take advantage of the Sunday School space that is not being used until September. Those who want to participate in the planned interactive effort, can go to the "icebreaker" tables on that side of the room. Those who do not want to do that can sit at the other tables and continue on as they have in past coffee hours. Of course, people can move back and forth between both sides of the room at will. Everyone should know that they are welcome to stay for coffee hour and participate in whatever aspect of it that they are comfortable with. Next Sunday, the conversation question will be, "What's you favorite service or event of the liturgical year?"
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain apart. And He was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with Him. And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is well that we are here; if Thou wilt, I will make three booths here, one for Thee and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking, when lo,a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, withWhom I am well pleased; hear Him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces, and were filled with awe. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, “Tell no one the vision, until the Son of man is risen from the dead.” (Matthew 17:1-9)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Jeremiah Kaufmann and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"The Church, if it is to be the Church, must be the revelation of that divine love which God poured out into our hearts. Without this love nothing is valid in the Church, because nothing is possible. The content of Christ's Eucharist is love, and only through love can we enter into it and be made its partakers."
Fr. Alexander Schmemann in "For the Life of the World"
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
July 31, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 1, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 2, Thursday
+ Free Lunch Program Volunteering, 11:30AM-1:00PM
+ Office Hours, 1:30PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
August 3, Friday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Paraklesis, 7:00PM
August 4, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
August 5, Sunday (Feast of the Transfiguration, transferred)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Looking Ahead to August
From August 1-14, we participate in the Dormition Fast, preparing for, and then marking the falling asleep or the death of the Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. During this time, the church offers extra services. This Paraklesis service, as it is called, is a service of consolation. We ask the Virgin Mary for her prayers in our struggles in life, and we come to God in faith that He loves us and wants to heal us. This service will be offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:00PM during these two weeks. The Dormition Fast concludes with Vesperal Liturgy celebrating the Dormition of the Theotokos at 6:00PM on August 14.
Blessing of Grapes
On the Feast of the Transfiguration, which we will celebrate next Sunday August 5, it is traditional to bless grapes and other fruit, thanking God for His bountiful harvest. All are welcomed to bring grapes and fruit to be blessed at the end of Liturgy.
So Long, Farewell
We were blessed to have Derick Mattern with us at St. Raphael these last two years while he completed his master's degree. Derick has now moved on and we wish him all the best. He says we may see him for a visit in the future. May God grant him many years!
A Note to Our Choir
"Dear St. Raphael Choir,
Thank you very much for your beautiful musical contribution to our ceremony and for all your work in preparation. It meant a lot to us to have you all there in our ceremony.
In Christ,
Matthew and Katherine"
The Value of Monks and Nuns to the Church, and Two Opportunities to Help
Monastics provide a service for the Church at large, for they help preserve her saltiness, and without them, the Church would be in perpetual danger of losing her saving savour (see Matthew 5:13). God calls His Church to be in the world but not of the world. Monks and nuns, in their monasteries, intensely embody the truth that the Church belongs ultimately not to this age, but to the age to come. Therefore, monasticism robustly presents Church’s eschatological nature, an in-your-face witness that we are all just sojourners in this world, and that we are just visiting this planet. Furthermore, the prayers of monks and nuns, and the prayers of all who pray seriously and thoroughly, literally sustain the world and all of us. The existence of monks and nuns is of great benefit to us.
Here are two opportunities to help monks and nuns with their needs, so that they can continue to perform their mission, which includes praying for all of us. The Hermitage of the Holy Cross is a men's monastery in West Virginia. Recently, they have experienced two significant landslides which threaten a building and several utility lines. They are trying to raise funds to make the repairs necessary to fix this problem. To learn more and/or to donate, go to: https://www.holycross-hermitage.com/blogs/news/fundraising-for-urgent-landslide-repairs St. Paisius Monastery is a women's monastery in Arizona. They provide hospitality to thousands of spiritual pilgrims each year, but they do not have a dining hall (trapeza) large enough to properly accommodate all of their guests. They are in the process of building a larger dining hall and are raising the necessary funds to complete it and equip and furnish it. To learn more and/or to donate, go to: http://stpaisiusmonastery.org/about-the-monastery/building-projects/monastery-dining-hall-building-project/ Fr. Ignatius has visited both of these monasteries and can vouch for the reality of these needs and the worthiness of these monasteries and their monastics. Help them if you can.
Would You Like to Learn What it Looks Like When God Grabs Hold of a Person and Fills Them With His Grace?
One of our most recently glorified saints, St. Porphyrios of Kafsokalyvia, is an example of such a person. The book, by and about him, titled "Wounded by Love" is inspiring and spiritually enlightening. Fr. Ignatius recommends this book strongly to anyone who wants to understand God's love for mankind and the manner in which He can make us like Him by showering us with His grace. To whet your appetite and to learn a bit about St. Porphyrios and his teachings, watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBxfgsTYhnk&t=278s "Simply, Humbly, Gently: Saint Porphyrios and the Way of Love"
A Good Source for Orthodox Christian Children's Books
Potamitis Publishing (http://orthodoxchildrensbooks.com) is an excellent source for well done, colorful children's books relating to our Orthodox faith. They publish dozens of different titles in many different languages (including English!) A representative of the company will be at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids on Sunday, August 5, if you want to see a large selection of the books in person.
Summer Coffee Hour Change
Our fellowship hall is now rearranged to take advantage of the Sunday School space that is not being used until September. Those who want to participate in the planned interactive effort, can go to the "icebreaker" tables on that side of the room. Those who do not want to do that can sit at the other tables and continue on as they have in past coffee hours. Of course, people can move back and forth between both sides of the room at will. Everyone should know that they are welcome to stay for coffee hour and participate in whatever aspect of it that they are comfortable with. Next Sunday, the conversation question will be, "What's you favorite service or event of the liturgical year?"
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain apart. And He was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with Him. And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is well that we are here; if Thou wilt, I will make three booths here, one for Thee and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking, when lo,a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, withWhom I am well pleased; hear Him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces, and were filled with awe. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, “Tell no one the vision, until the Son of man is risen from the dead.” (Matthew 17:1-9)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Jeremiah Kaufmann and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"The Church, if it is to be the Church, must be the revelation of that divine love which God poured out into our hearts. Without this love nothing is valid in the Church, because nothing is possible. The content of Christ's Eucharist is love, and only through love can we enter into it and be made its partakers."
Fr. Alexander Schmemann in "For the Life of the World"
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday July 15, 2018, Sunday of the Fathers of the 4th Council
This Week's Services and Events
July 14, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 15, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Coffee Hour
July 18, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
July 21, Saturday
+ Food Pantry open, 11:00AM-12:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 22, Sunday (8th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Coffee Hour
July 25, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
July 28, Saturday
+ Women's Group, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 29, Sunday (9th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by potluck during coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Please Welcome Fr. Elias
Fr. Elias Khouri will be serving matins and liturgy next Sunday, July 22. Please welcome him!
Fr. Ignatius is Out of Town
Fr. Ignatius is out of town until late on Thursday, July 26. If you need to contact him, don't hesitate to call or text at 319-400-7522 or email him at frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org. If you need the presence of a priest immediately due to an emergency, please call Fr. Elias Khouri at 319-329-2562.
You Are Invited
St. Elias the Prophet Greek Orthodox Church in Dubuque will be celebrating their patronal feast day this week. On July 19, they will have vespers at 7PM followed by refreshments and on July 20, Matins and Liturgy at 9AM. All are welcome.
Next Women's Group Meeting
Our Women's Group will be meeting on July 28 at 3:00PM. All women are welcome.
Parish-wide Potluck July 29
As July 29th is the fifth Sunday of the month, we ask that everyone bring some food to share for our coffee hour following liturgy.
Comments by Fr. Ignatius on "The Secret" Film
Recently, in a forum at which many of our members were present, the 2006 documentary film called "The Secret" was recommended. After watching it himself, here are Fr. Ignatius's comments. "I appreciated and can agree with the emphasis in the film, on gratitude, abundance and joy. Those are all Biblical, Christian concepts and when they are tied into our relationship with God, they are vitally important to realize and practice. But, many assumptions and worldviews presented in the film were at odds with our Orthodox Christian faith. For example, many of the presenters seemed to be operating from a monistic or pantheistic worldview. There seemed to be a conscious effort to depersonalize God. Also, the basic assumptions of many of the presenters focused on the self and the desires of the self as the greatest good. It was much more self-focused, than God-focused. I am happy to share my thoughts further with anyone who inquires."
Looking Ahead to August
From August 1-14, we participate in the Dormition Fast, preparing for, and then marking the falling asleep or the death of the Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. During this time, the church offers extra services. This Paraklesis service, as it is called, is a service of consolation. We ask the Virgin Mary for her prayers in our struggles in life, and we come to God in faith that He loves us and wants to heal us. This service will be offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:00PM during these two weeks. The Dormition Fast concludes with Vesperal Liturgy celebrating the Dormition of the Theotokos at 6:00PM on August 14.
A Good Source for Orthodox Christian Children's Books
Potamitis Publishing (http://orthodoxchildrensbooks.com) is an excellent source for well done, colorful children's books relating to our Orthodox faith. They publish dozens of different titles in many different languages (including English!) A representative of the company will be at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids on Sunday, August 5, if you want to see a large selection of the books in person.
Summer Coffee Hour Change
Our fellowship hall is now rearranged to take advantage of the Sunday School space that is not being used until September. Those who want to participate in the planned interactive effort, can go to the "icebreaker" tables on that side of the room. Those who do not want to do that can sit at the other tables and continue on as they have in past coffee hours. Of course, people can move back and forth between both sides of the room at will. Everyone should know that they are welcome to stay for coffee hour and participate in whatever aspect of it that they are comfortable with. Next Sunday, the conversation question will be, "What's you favorite service or event of the liturgical year?"
Save the Date- Parish Retreat!
Plans are being made to have a wonderful parish-wide retreat on Saturday, September 1st to lay the groundwork for a more healthy, more vibrant and connected church family. Please save the date and plan to be with us. More details to come.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next (Two) Sunday Gospel Readings
At that time, when Jesus went ashore he saw a great throng; and he had compassion on them, and healed their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to Him and said, “This is a lonely place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food or themselves.” Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” They said to Him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” And He said, “Bring them here to Me.”Then He ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass; and taking the five loaves and the two fish He looked up to Heaven, and blessed, and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. Then Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. (Matthew 14:14-22)
At that time, Jesus made the Disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. And after He had dismissed the crowds, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone, but the Disciples’ boat bythis time was many furlongs distant from the land, beaten by the waves; for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. But when theDisciples saw Jesus walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately He spoke to them, saying, “Take heart, it is I; have no fear.” And Peter answered Him, “Lord, if it is Thee, bid me come to Thee on the water.” He said, “Come.”So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus; but when he saw the wind,he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out His hand and caught him, saying to him, “O man of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “Truly, Thou art the Son of God.” And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. (Matthew 14:22-34)
Pray for Our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Jeremiah Kaufmann and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Never cease to give thanks for what you have received. Perhaps we are not rich men when it comes to money and property, but we are wealthy men in the eyes of God. He has given us many unseen gifts, eternal ones, ones that cannot be taken from us. We have been given more than we labored for. Rejoice, for God is generous and merciful. He is the God of Love, and He loves us all."
His Eminence, Metropolitan JOSEPH
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
July 14, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 15, Sunday
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Coffee Hour
July 18, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
July 21, Saturday
+ Food Pantry open, 11:00AM-12:30PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 22, Sunday (8th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by Coffee Hour
July 25, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
July 28, Saturday
+ Women's Group, 3:00PM
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 29, Sunday (9th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM, followed by potluck during coffee hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Please Welcome Fr. Elias
Fr. Elias Khouri will be serving matins and liturgy next Sunday, July 22. Please welcome him!
Fr. Ignatius is Out of Town
Fr. Ignatius is out of town until late on Thursday, July 26. If you need to contact him, don't hesitate to call or text at 319-400-7522 or email him at frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org. If you need the presence of a priest immediately due to an emergency, please call Fr. Elias Khouri at 319-329-2562.
You Are Invited
St. Elias the Prophet Greek Orthodox Church in Dubuque will be celebrating their patronal feast day this week. On July 19, they will have vespers at 7PM followed by refreshments and on July 20, Matins and Liturgy at 9AM. All are welcome.
Next Women's Group Meeting
Our Women's Group will be meeting on July 28 at 3:00PM. All women are welcome.
Parish-wide Potluck July 29
As July 29th is the fifth Sunday of the month, we ask that everyone bring some food to share for our coffee hour following liturgy.
Comments by Fr. Ignatius on "The Secret" Film
Recently, in a forum at which many of our members were present, the 2006 documentary film called "The Secret" was recommended. After watching it himself, here are Fr. Ignatius's comments. "I appreciated and can agree with the emphasis in the film, on gratitude, abundance and joy. Those are all Biblical, Christian concepts and when they are tied into our relationship with God, they are vitally important to realize and practice. But, many assumptions and worldviews presented in the film were at odds with our Orthodox Christian faith. For example, many of the presenters seemed to be operating from a monistic or pantheistic worldview. There seemed to be a conscious effort to depersonalize God. Also, the basic assumptions of many of the presenters focused on the self and the desires of the self as the greatest good. It was much more self-focused, than God-focused. I am happy to share my thoughts further with anyone who inquires."
Looking Ahead to August
From August 1-14, we participate in the Dormition Fast, preparing for, and then marking the falling asleep or the death of the Holy Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. During this time, the church offers extra services. This Paraklesis service, as it is called, is a service of consolation. We ask the Virgin Mary for her prayers in our struggles in life, and we come to God in faith that He loves us and wants to heal us. This service will be offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:00PM during these two weeks. The Dormition Fast concludes with Vesperal Liturgy celebrating the Dormition of the Theotokos at 6:00PM on August 14.
A Good Source for Orthodox Christian Children's Books
Potamitis Publishing (http://orthodoxchildrensbooks.com) is an excellent source for well done, colorful children's books relating to our Orthodox faith. They publish dozens of different titles in many different languages (including English!) A representative of the company will be at St. John the Baptist Church in Cedar Rapids on Sunday, August 5, if you want to see a large selection of the books in person.
Summer Coffee Hour Change
Our fellowship hall is now rearranged to take advantage of the Sunday School space that is not being used until September. Those who want to participate in the planned interactive effort, can go to the "icebreaker" tables on that side of the room. Those who do not want to do that can sit at the other tables and continue on as they have in past coffee hours. Of course, people can move back and forth between both sides of the room at will. Everyone should know that they are welcome to stay for coffee hour and participate in whatever aspect of it that they are comfortable with. Next Sunday, the conversation question will be, "What's you favorite service or event of the liturgical year?"
Save the Date- Parish Retreat!
Plans are being made to have a wonderful parish-wide retreat on Saturday, September 1st to lay the groundwork for a more healthy, more vibrant and connected church family. Please save the date and plan to be with us. More details to come.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next (Two) Sunday Gospel Readings
At that time, when Jesus went ashore he saw a great throng; and he had compassion on them, and healed their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to Him and said, “This is a lonely place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food or themselves.” Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” They said to Him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” And He said, “Bring them here to Me.”Then He ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass; and taking the five loaves and the two fish He looked up to Heaven, and blessed, and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. Then Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. (Matthew 14:14-22)
At that time, Jesus made the Disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. And after He had dismissed the crowds, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone, but the Disciples’ boat bythis time was many furlongs distant from the land, beaten by the waves; for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. But when theDisciples saw Jesus walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately He spoke to them, saying, “Take heart, it is I; have no fear.” And Peter answered Him, “Lord, if it is Thee, bid me come to Thee on the water.” He said, “Come.”So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus; but when he saw the wind,he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out His hand and caught him, saying to him, “O man of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped Him, saying, “Truly, Thou art the Son of God.” And when they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. (Matthew 14:22-34)
Pray for Our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Jeremiah Kaufmann and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Never cease to give thanks for what you have received. Perhaps we are not rich men when it comes to money and property, but we are wealthy men in the eyes of God. He has given us many unseen gifts, eternal ones, ones that cannot be taken from us. We have been given more than we labored for. Rejoice, for God is generous and merciful. He is the God of Love, and He loves us all."
His Eminence, Metropolitan JOSEPH
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday July 8, 2018, 6th Sunday After Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
July 10, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 11, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
July 12, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 12:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 13, Friday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 14, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 15, Sunday (Sunday of the Fathers of the 4th Council)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM followed by Coffee Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said to His Disciples: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father Who is in heaven. Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them, but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:14-19
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Jeremiah Kaufmann and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Understand two thoughts, and fear them. One says, 'You are a saint,' the other, 'You won't be saved.' Both of these thoughts are from the enemy, and there is no truth in them. But think this way: 'I am a great sinner, but the Lord is merciful. He loves people very much, and He will forgive my sins.'"
St. Silouan the Athonite
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
July 10, Tuesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 11, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
July 12, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 12:00PM-4:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 13, Friday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 14, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 15, Sunday (Sunday of the Fathers of the 4th Council)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM followed by Coffee Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
The Lord said to His Disciples: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father Who is in heaven. Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them, but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:14-19
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Jeremiah Kaufmann and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"Understand two thoughts, and fear them. One says, 'You are a saint,' the other, 'You won't be saved.' Both of these thoughts are from the enemy, and there is no truth in them. But think this way: 'I am a great sinner, but the Lord is merciful. He loves people very much, and He will forgive my sins.'"
St. Silouan the Athonite
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
Sunday July 1, 2018, 5th Sunday after Pentecost
This Week's Services and Events
July 4, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
July 6, Friday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 7, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 8, Sunday (6th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM followed by Coffee Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Prayer for the Campers and Staff at Camp St. George
This week, July 1-7, campers and staff will be participating in Camp St. George at the new location near Strawberry Point, Iowa. Campers from our parish this year are Anastasia, Luka and Serafim Surguladze, Georgiana Deister, Josiah Valentine, Nina and Nicole Peterson and Paul Padath. Lizzy Valentine and Fr. Ignatius will be on staff. Fr. Ignatius will not be holding office hours on Tuesday-Thursday of this week since he is at camp. Please keep us in your prayers!
Prayers before the Tomb of St. Raphael
Fr. Ignatius will be leaving on July 14 to attend the biennial Clergy Symposium at the Antiochian Village in Pennsylvania, the place with St. Raphael is buried. As he has done in the past, he will be saying an akathist to our patron at his tomb and will be praying for all those, living and departed that you want him to pray for by name. If you would like to have the names of loved ones mentioned in prayer at St. Raphael's tomb, please forward your list of both those living and those departed to Fr. Ignatius before July 13.
Summer Coffee Hour Change
Our fellowship hall is now rearranged to take advantage of the Sunday School space that is not being used until September. Those who want to participate in the planned interactive effort, can go to the "icebreaker" tables on that side of the room. Those who do not want to do that can sit at the other tables and continue on as they have in past coffee hours. Of course, people can move back and forth between both sides of the room at will. Everyone should know that they are welcome to stay for coffee hour and participate in whatever aspect of it that they are comfortable with. Next Sunday, Dr. Julia Buchkina will talk on "The Power of Positivity."
Seeking Donations to Fund Visiting Priest Serving
Fr. Ignatius will be missing two Sundays in July due to attending the biennial Clergy Symposium in Pennsylvania. In order to be able to bring in priests to serve in Father's stead on those two days, we need to raise an additional $110 for stipends. Can you help out and donate so that we don't miss a Liturgy on Sunday next month?
Save the Date--Parish Retreat!
Plans are being made to have a wonderful parish-wide retreat on Saturday, September 1st to lay the groundwork for a more healthy, more vibrant and connected church family. Please save the date and plan to be with us. More details to come.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus got into a boat, crossed over and came to His own city. And behold, they brought to Him a paralytic, lying on his bed; and when Jesus saw their faith He said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—He then said to the paralytic—“Rise, take up your bed and go home.” And he rose and went home. When the crowds saw it, they marveled, and they glorified God, Who had given such authority to men. (Matthew 9:1-8)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Jeremiah Kaufmann and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"O give thanks unto the Lord for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy."
Psalm 107:1-2
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
July 4, Wednesday
+ Akathist, 7:00PM
July 6, Friday
+ Office Hours, 11:30AM-3:00PM
+9th Hour Prayers, 3:00PM
July 7, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00PM
July 8, Sunday (6th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins, 8:45AM
+ Divine Liturgy, 10:00AM followed by Coffee Hour
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Prayer for the Campers and Staff at Camp St. George
This week, July 1-7, campers and staff will be participating in Camp St. George at the new location near Strawberry Point, Iowa. Campers from our parish this year are Anastasia, Luka and Serafim Surguladze, Georgiana Deister, Josiah Valentine, Nina and Nicole Peterson and Paul Padath. Lizzy Valentine and Fr. Ignatius will be on staff. Fr. Ignatius will not be holding office hours on Tuesday-Thursday of this week since he is at camp. Please keep us in your prayers!
Prayers before the Tomb of St. Raphael
Fr. Ignatius will be leaving on July 14 to attend the biennial Clergy Symposium at the Antiochian Village in Pennsylvania, the place with St. Raphael is buried. As he has done in the past, he will be saying an akathist to our patron at his tomb and will be praying for all those, living and departed that you want him to pray for by name. If you would like to have the names of loved ones mentioned in prayer at St. Raphael's tomb, please forward your list of both those living and those departed to Fr. Ignatius before July 13.
Summer Coffee Hour Change
Our fellowship hall is now rearranged to take advantage of the Sunday School space that is not being used until September. Those who want to participate in the planned interactive effort, can go to the "icebreaker" tables on that side of the room. Those who do not want to do that can sit at the other tables and continue on as they have in past coffee hours. Of course, people can move back and forth between both sides of the room at will. Everyone should know that they are welcome to stay for coffee hour and participate in whatever aspect of it that they are comfortable with. Next Sunday, Dr. Julia Buchkina will talk on "The Power of Positivity."
Seeking Donations to Fund Visiting Priest Serving
Fr. Ignatius will be missing two Sundays in July due to attending the biennial Clergy Symposium in Pennsylvania. In order to be able to bring in priests to serve in Father's stead on those two days, we need to raise an additional $110 for stipends. Can you help out and donate so that we don't miss a Liturgy on Sunday next month?
Save the Date--Parish Retreat!
Plans are being made to have a wonderful parish-wide retreat on Saturday, September 1st to lay the groundwork for a more healthy, more vibrant and connected church family. Please save the date and plan to be with us. More details to come.
Food Pantry
An important part of our faith is serving others, and particularly those in need. Our new food pantry is open from 11:00 to 12:30 on third Saturdays for now. All are welcome to receive food from it, including our church members. Please donate nonperishable items (food that doesn't need to be refrigerated) in the white box under the table in the narthex (church entryway). See our Food Pantry Shopping List for more information and ideas. Monetary donations are welcome. Write "Food Pantry" in the subject line of your check, or use the blue donation form below and click on the designation "Food Pantry." Interested in helping hands-on? We're looking for a volunteer to provide coffee and donuts for our guests as well as someone to work with Table to Table and other food donors. Contact Subdeacon Anthony (Bill Spencer) or Father Ignatius with questions.
Food for All--Kalona
Please continue to pray for our Orthodox-style, community-style charity work. Also ask our Lord to draw people to Himself and His Church through all our programs. Visit our website at foodforallkalona.weebly.com. For more info, email me at foodforallkalona@gmail.com. Thanks! Amy Spencer
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, Jesus got into a boat, crossed over and came to His own city. And behold, they brought to Him a paralytic, lying on his bed; and when Jesus saw their faith He said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—He then said to the paralytic—“Rise, take up your bed and go home.” And he rose and went home. When the crowds saw it, they marveled, and they glorified God, Who had given such authority to men. (Matthew 9:1-8)
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Jeremiah Kaufmann and Scott Dorr 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? Look for the new Memorial sign-up sheet. Decide what weekend you would like your loved one(s) remembered, 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. To sign a petition urging the US Government and others to work for their release, go to: https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-help-release-the-kidnapped-archbishops-of-syria
Food for Thought
"O give thanks unto the Lord for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy."
Psalm 107:1-2
--
Contact Information
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Fr. Ignatius Valentine, Pastor
722 E. College St., Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 337-ORTH (Church)
(319) 400-7522 Father's cell)
frignatius@straphaelorthodoxchurch.org
https://www.raphaelchurch.org
https://www.facebook.com/straphaeliowacity
