Sunday January 23, 2022- 31st Sunday After Pentecost
Upcoming Services and Events
January 22, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 23, Sunday
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
January 24, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 25, Tuesday
+ Nic Hartmann Talk at ICPL, 6:30pm
January 26, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina of Georgia, 6:00pm
January 27, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ "Northern Lights of Christ" Book Group, 7:00pm on Zoom
January 28, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 29, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 30, Sunday (31st Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
Newest Announcements
Annual Meeting Minutes
Meeting minutes from our Annual Voters' Meeting in early December are published and attached.
Sunday School Begins On January 23
After taking a lengthy break because of the pandemic, we are resuming Sunday School for our children beginning on Sunday, January 23. Classes will meet weekly and start at 9:15am and ending in time for Liturgy at 10am. There will be three classes: Pre-K-3rd grade, 4-6 grade and 7-12 grade. All classes will be studying the Gospel of Matthew. Get your kids involved!
"Hygge Meets Agape: Intersections of Nordic Culture and Ancient Christianity" Talk by Nic Hartmann on January 25
Folklorist and community educator Nic Hartmann, Ph.D., will be reading from his newly published book, Northern Lights of Christ: Lessons on Faith From Above the Birch Line. Nic brings faith and Nordic culture together through his love of travel, connection and care of communities and family, and his awareness of the power to transform lives in small acts done faithfully. He lives in Iowa with his wife, Jen, and their two daughters, where they practice the principles from Northern Lights of Christ with their broader community and their Orthodox Church family. Copies of Northern Lights of Christ will be available for purchase courtesy Prairie Lights Books. Please RSVP to our Facebook Event to let us know you're coming: https://www.facebook.com/events/422296156043602
Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina
We will celebrate Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina of Georgia at 6:00pm on January 26.
Chamber Music Concert at UI, "A Tribute to Dinos Constantinides"
This free concert is Wednesday, January 26th at 7.30 pm in UI's Voxman Building Concert Hall, and most of the works are based on Greek folk tunes and modes. While this selection is not liturgical, the composer was of the Orthodox faith and composed works inspired by his faith. For more information, go to: https://cnm.uiowa.edu/season-56-concert-10
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)
Food for Thought
If you see a man who has sinned and you do not pity him, the grace of God will leave you. Whoever curses bad people, and does not pray for them, will never come to know the grace of God.
- St. Silouan the Athonite
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Scheduling House Blessings
Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings for the next several weeks. If there is a day and time you would like him to come, please contact him to arrange.
Contribute Toward Our Mortgage Without Spending a Dime!
Support St. Raphael Church while cleaning out your closet and decluttering your home. Consign items under the church's account numbers at Stuff, Etc East, Kidsworks, or Houseworks and 100% of the proceeds will go toward our mortgage principal.
Stuff, Etc. East - Account no. 22791
(319) 338-9909, 851 Hwy 6 E, Iowa City
Consign on a walk-in basis Tuesday-Saturday. One plastic tote (provided) and up to 5 larger items per person per visit. Any unaccepted items will be donated. Furniture is accepted seven days per week; drive around to the back of the building.
Houseworks - Account no. 019823
319-338-4357, 1800 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead for a consignment appointment. Items accepted include kitchenware, furniture, décor, some media (e.g. DVDs).
Kidworks - Account no. 19451
(319) 337-3921, 111 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead to make an appointment and to confirm types of items being accepted (e.g. in December they’re taking winter). Appointments are usually 9-9:45am M-S; Sundays 10-11:45 am; there are occasionally afternoon appointments available, particularly on weekends. Items must be free of rips, holes, stains, missing buttons, broken zippers, etc. Unaccepted items are donated to Heartland AEA.
Pray With Us For The Financial Stability of St. Raphael Church
Those who attended our annual meeting a few weeks ago heard about an effort to organize so that there are one or more people/families committed to praying on a set day once a week, for the financial stability of our parish. Several of you responded. If you haven't yet and you would like to, there is a sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board in the narthex. Sheets with suggested prayers are also available in the narthex.
2022 Financial Pledging Information
Pledge packets for 2022 are available at www.raphaelchurch.org where you can also see some helpful graphics showing the progress made toward fully funding our budget. Your Parish Council requests that you prayerfully consider what you plan to give to St. Raphael Church in 2022 and return the pledge form ASAP. All pledge commitments are confidential and if your income changes in the future and your pledge needs to be adjusted, our treasurer will accommodate you- no questions asked.
Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry has seen a slight increase in usage recently and this has led to less inventory. Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
Raising Money for Jenny Hope and John Michalski's Medical Expenses
St. Raphael Church members Jenny Hope and John Michalski need to raise $12,000 to utilize the services of a Functional Medicine MD for their various health concerns. Can you help them out? Here is the link to learn more and to donate. https://gofund.me/96349e5e
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2022, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, July and October and the 2nd Sunday of April- January 16, April 10, July 17 and October 16. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, and Derek 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? 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.
January 22, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 23, Sunday
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
January 24, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 25, Tuesday
+ Nic Hartmann Talk at ICPL, 6:30pm
January 26, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina of Georgia, 6:00pm
January 27, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ "Northern Lights of Christ" Book Group, 7:00pm on Zoom
January 28, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 29, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 30, Sunday (31st Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
Newest Announcements
Annual Meeting Minutes
Meeting minutes from our Annual Voters' Meeting in early December are published and attached.
Sunday School Begins On January 23
After taking a lengthy break because of the pandemic, we are resuming Sunday School for our children beginning on Sunday, January 23. Classes will meet weekly and start at 9:15am and ending in time for Liturgy at 10am. There will be three classes: Pre-K-3rd grade, 4-6 grade and 7-12 grade. All classes will be studying the Gospel of Matthew. Get your kids involved!
"Hygge Meets Agape: Intersections of Nordic Culture and Ancient Christianity" Talk by Nic Hartmann on January 25
Folklorist and community educator Nic Hartmann, Ph.D., will be reading from his newly published book, Northern Lights of Christ: Lessons on Faith From Above the Birch Line. Nic brings faith and Nordic culture together through his love of travel, connection and care of communities and family, and his awareness of the power to transform lives in small acts done faithfully. He lives in Iowa with his wife, Jen, and their two daughters, where they practice the principles from Northern Lights of Christ with their broader community and their Orthodox Church family. Copies of Northern Lights of Christ will be available for purchase courtesy Prairie Lights Books. Please RSVP to our Facebook Event to let us know you're coming: https://www.facebook.com/events/422296156043602
Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina
We will celebrate Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina of Georgia at 6:00pm on January 26.
Chamber Music Concert at UI, "A Tribute to Dinos Constantinides"
This free concert is Wednesday, January 26th at 7.30 pm in UI's Voxman Building Concert Hall, and most of the works are based on Greek folk tunes and modes. While this selection is not liturgical, the composer was of the Orthodox faith and composed works inspired by his faith. For more information, go to: https://cnm.uiowa.edu/season-56-concert-10
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)
Food for Thought
If you see a man who has sinned and you do not pity him, the grace of God will leave you. Whoever curses bad people, and does not pray for them, will never come to know the grace of God.
- St. Silouan the Athonite
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Scheduling House Blessings
Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings for the next several weeks. If there is a day and time you would like him to come, please contact him to arrange.
Contribute Toward Our Mortgage Without Spending a Dime!
Support St. Raphael Church while cleaning out your closet and decluttering your home. Consign items under the church's account numbers at Stuff, Etc East, Kidsworks, or Houseworks and 100% of the proceeds will go toward our mortgage principal.
Stuff, Etc. East - Account no. 22791
(319) 338-9909, 851 Hwy 6 E, Iowa City
Consign on a walk-in basis Tuesday-Saturday. One plastic tote (provided) and up to 5 larger items per person per visit. Any unaccepted items will be donated. Furniture is accepted seven days per week; drive around to the back of the building.
Houseworks - Account no. 019823
319-338-4357, 1800 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead for a consignment appointment. Items accepted include kitchenware, furniture, décor, some media (e.g. DVDs).
Kidworks - Account no. 19451
(319) 337-3921, 111 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead to make an appointment and to confirm types of items being accepted (e.g. in December they’re taking winter). Appointments are usually 9-9:45am M-S; Sundays 10-11:45 am; there are occasionally afternoon appointments available, particularly on weekends. Items must be free of rips, holes, stains, missing buttons, broken zippers, etc. Unaccepted items are donated to Heartland AEA.
Pray With Us For The Financial Stability of St. Raphael Church
Those who attended our annual meeting a few weeks ago heard about an effort to organize so that there are one or more people/families committed to praying on a set day once a week, for the financial stability of our parish. Several of you responded. If you haven't yet and you would like to, there is a sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board in the narthex. Sheets with suggested prayers are also available in the narthex.
2022 Financial Pledging Information
Pledge packets for 2022 are available at www.raphaelchurch.org where you can also see some helpful graphics showing the progress made toward fully funding our budget. Your Parish Council requests that you prayerfully consider what you plan to give to St. Raphael Church in 2022 and return the pledge form ASAP. All pledge commitments are confidential and if your income changes in the future and your pledge needs to be adjusted, our treasurer will accommodate you- no questions asked.
Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry has seen a slight increase in usage recently and this has led to less inventory. Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
- Canned Tuna and Chicken
- Any Canned Soup, especially soups with meat
- Canned Chili with meat
- Canned Fruit
- Breakfast cereal
Raising Money for Jenny Hope and John Michalski's Medical Expenses
St. Raphael Church members Jenny Hope and John Michalski need to raise $12,000 to utilize the services of a Functional Medicine MD for their various health concerns. Can you help them out? Here is the link to learn more and to donate. https://gofund.me/96349e5e
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2022, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, July and October and the 2nd Sunday of April- January 16, April 10, July 17 and October 16. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, and Derek 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? 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.
Sunday January 16, 2022- 29th Sunday After Pentecost
Upcoming Services and Events
January 15, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting on Zoom, 2:00pm
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 16, Sunday
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
January 17, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 19, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 7:00pm
January 20, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
January 21, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 23, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 24, Sunday (31st Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
Newest Announcements
Holy Water Available
We have just celebrated the Feast of the Lord's Theophany, the celebration of His baptism. This is the service at which we ask the Holy Spirit to bless water, which we then use in the church and in our homes throughout the year. Bottles of holy water will be available to pick up this Sunday. If you have old, empty bottles at home, bring them and get them refilled.
10th Annual Dormition of the Mother of God Monastery Winter Micro-Retreat
The 10th Annual Dormition of the Mother of God Winter Micro-Retreat (known in previous years as the Winter Dinner for Dormition Monastery):
Thursday, Jan 20 starting at 4:45 PM
A Zoom Event you can attend from your computer, pad, smartphone or telephone or Smart TV (YOUTUBE LINK to be provided)
Agenda (all times are Eastern and may vary slightly):
4:45 PM - A video tour of the monastery followed by a brief welcome
5:00 PM - Vespers live from the monastery
6:00 PM - Welcome, Introductions and our SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: Archbishop Nathaniel, Ruling Hierarch of the Romanian Orthodox Episcopate of America (followed by Q&A)
7:00 PM - Closing Prayer
Notes:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar including a YOUTUBE Link for easier viewing on a large screen (Smart TV)
Register at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_EQ7jhkZ8SCOmbSPjDbs1cg
Sunday School Begins Next Sunday
After taking a lengthy break because of the pandemic, we are resuming Sunday School for our children beginning on Sunday, January 23. Classes will meet weekly and start at 9:15am and ending in time for Liturgy at 10am. There will be three classes: Pre-K-3rd grade, 4-6 grade and 7-12 grade. All classes will be studying the Gospel of Matthew. Get your kids involved!
"Hygee Meets Agape: Intersections of Nordic Culture and Ancient Christianity" Talk by Nic Hartmann on January 25
Folklorist and community educator Nic Hartmann, Ph.D., will be reading from his newly published book, Northern Lights of Christ: Lessons on Faith From Above the Birch Line. Nic brings faith and Nordic culture together through his love of travel, connection and care of communities and family, and his awareness of the power to transform lives in small acts done faithfully. He lives in Iowa with his wife, Jen, and their two daughters, where they practice the principles from Northern Lights of Christ with their broader community and their Orthodox Church family. Copies of Northern Lights of Christ will be available for purchase courtesy Prairie Lights Books. Please RSVP to our Facebook Event to let us know you're coming: https://www.facebook.com/events/422296156043602
Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina
We will celebrate Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina of Georgia at 6:00pm on January 26.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped, and commanded him to be brought to Him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me receive my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God. (Luke 18:35-43)
Food for Thought
An ungodly man flees when no one is pursuing, but a righteous man is as confident as a lion.
Proverbs 28:1
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Scheduling House Blessings
Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings for the next several weeks. If there is a day and time you would like him to come, please contact him to arrange.
Contribute Toward Our Mortgage Without Spending a Dime!
Support St. Raphael Church while cleaning out your closet and decluttering your home. Consign items under the church's account numbers at Stuff, Etc East, Kidsworks, or Houseworks and 100% of the proceeds will go toward our mortgage principal.
Pray With Us For The Financial Stability of St. Raphael Church
Those who attended our annual meeting a few weeks ago heard about an effort to organize so that there are one or more people/families committed to praying on a set day once a week, for the financial stability of our parish. Several of you responded. If you haven't yet and you would like to, there is a sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board in the narthex. Sheets with suggested prayers are also available in the narthex.
2022 Financial Pledging Information
Pledge packets for 2022 are available at www.raphaelchurch.org where you can also see some helpful graphics showing the progress made toward fully funding our budget. Your Parish Council requests that you prayerfully consider what you plan to give to St. Raphael Church in 2022 and return the pledge form ASAP. All pledge commitments are confidential and if your income changes in the future and your pledge needs to be adjusted, our treasurer will accommodate you- no questions asked.
Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry has seen a slight increase in usage recently and this has led to less inventory. Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
Raising Money for Jenny Hope and John Michalski's Medical Expenses
St. Raphael Church members Jenny Hope and John Michalski need to raise $12,000 to utilize the services of a Functional Medicine MD for their various health concerns. Can you help them out? Here is the link to learn more and to donate. https://gofund.me/96349e5e
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2022, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, July and October and the 2nd Sunday of April- January 16, April 10, July 17 and October 16. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, and Derek 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? 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.
January 15, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting on Zoom, 2:00pm
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 16, Sunday
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
January 17, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 19, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 7:00pm
January 20, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
January 21, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 23, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 24, Sunday (31st Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
Newest Announcements
Holy Water Available
We have just celebrated the Feast of the Lord's Theophany, the celebration of His baptism. This is the service at which we ask the Holy Spirit to bless water, which we then use in the church and in our homes throughout the year. Bottles of holy water will be available to pick up this Sunday. If you have old, empty bottles at home, bring them and get them refilled.
10th Annual Dormition of the Mother of God Monastery Winter Micro-Retreat
The 10th Annual Dormition of the Mother of God Winter Micro-Retreat (known in previous years as the Winter Dinner for Dormition Monastery):
Thursday, Jan 20 starting at 4:45 PM
A Zoom Event you can attend from your computer, pad, smartphone or telephone or Smart TV (YOUTUBE LINK to be provided)
Agenda (all times are Eastern and may vary slightly):
4:45 PM - A video tour of the monastery followed by a brief welcome
5:00 PM - Vespers live from the monastery
6:00 PM - Welcome, Introductions and our SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: Archbishop Nathaniel, Ruling Hierarch of the Romanian Orthodox Episcopate of America (followed by Q&A)
7:00 PM - Closing Prayer
Notes:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar including a YOUTUBE Link for easier viewing on a large screen (Smart TV)
Register at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_EQ7jhkZ8SCOmbSPjDbs1cg
Sunday School Begins Next Sunday
After taking a lengthy break because of the pandemic, we are resuming Sunday School for our children beginning on Sunday, January 23. Classes will meet weekly and start at 9:15am and ending in time for Liturgy at 10am. There will be three classes: Pre-K-3rd grade, 4-6 grade and 7-12 grade. All classes will be studying the Gospel of Matthew. Get your kids involved!
"Hygee Meets Agape: Intersections of Nordic Culture and Ancient Christianity" Talk by Nic Hartmann on January 25
Folklorist and community educator Nic Hartmann, Ph.D., will be reading from his newly published book, Northern Lights of Christ: Lessons on Faith From Above the Birch Line. Nic brings faith and Nordic culture together through his love of travel, connection and care of communities and family, and his awareness of the power to transform lives in small acts done faithfully. He lives in Iowa with his wife, Jen, and their two daughters, where they practice the principles from Northern Lights of Christ with their broader community and their Orthodox Church family. Copies of Northern Lights of Christ will be available for purchase courtesy Prairie Lights Books. Please RSVP to our Facebook Event to let us know you're coming: https://www.facebook.com/events/422296156043602
Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina
We will celebrate Vesperal Liturgy for St. Nina of Georgia at 6:00pm on January 26.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, as Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging; and hearing a multitude going by, he inquired what this meant. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped, and commanded him to be brought to Him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me receive my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God. (Luke 18:35-43)
Food for Thought
An ungodly man flees when no one is pursuing, but a righteous man is as confident as a lion.
Proverbs 28:1
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Scheduling House Blessings
Fr. Ignatius is scheduling house blessings for the next several weeks. If there is a day and time you would like him to come, please contact him to arrange.
Contribute Toward Our Mortgage Without Spending a Dime!
Support St. Raphael Church while cleaning out your closet and decluttering your home. Consign items under the church's account numbers at Stuff, Etc East, Kidsworks, or Houseworks and 100% of the proceeds will go toward our mortgage principal.
- Stuff, Etc. East - Account no. 22791 (319) 338-9909, 851 Hwy 6 E, Iowa City
- Houseworks - Account no. 019823 319-338-4357, 1800 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
- Kidworks - Account no. 19451 (319) 337-3921, 111 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Pray With Us For The Financial Stability of St. Raphael Church
Those who attended our annual meeting a few weeks ago heard about an effort to organize so that there are one or more people/families committed to praying on a set day once a week, for the financial stability of our parish. Several of you responded. If you haven't yet and you would like to, there is a sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board in the narthex. Sheets with suggested prayers are also available in the narthex.
2022 Financial Pledging Information
Pledge packets for 2022 are available at www.raphaelchurch.org where you can also see some helpful graphics showing the progress made toward fully funding our budget. Your Parish Council requests that you prayerfully consider what you plan to give to St. Raphael Church in 2022 and return the pledge form ASAP. All pledge commitments are confidential and if your income changes in the future and your pledge needs to be adjusted, our treasurer will accommodate you- no questions asked.
Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry has seen a slight increase in usage recently and this has led to less inventory. Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
- Canned Tuna and Chicken
- Any Canned Soup, especially soups with meat
- Canned Chili with meat
- Canned Fruit
- Breakfast cereal
Raising Money for Jenny Hope and John Michalski's Medical Expenses
St. Raphael Church members Jenny Hope and John Michalski need to raise $12,000 to utilize the services of a Functional Medicine MD for their various health concerns. Can you help them out? Here is the link to learn more and to donate. https://gofund.me/96349e5e
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2022, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, July and October and the 2nd Sunday of April- January 16, April 10, July 17 and October 16. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, and Derek 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? 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.
Sunday January 9, 2022- Sunday After Theophany
Upcoming Services and Events
January 8, Saturday
+ Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water, 4:00pm (First Ave. bridge, downtown Cedar Rapids) followed by vespers at St. George Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave., Cedar Rapids)
January 9, Sunday
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
January 10, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 12, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 7:00pm
January 13, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
January 14, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 15, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting , 2:00pm (on Zoom)
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 16, Sunday (29th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
Newest Announcements
Outdoor Blessing of Water
St. George Church in Cedar Rapids is hosting our annual Outdoor Blessing of Water this year. We will gather on the First Avenue bridge which spans the Cedar River in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4:00pm. Following that short service, all are welcome to attend Great Vespers at St. George Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
No Vespers at St. Raphael on January 8
Due to the Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water service in Cedar Rapids and Great Vespers at St. George Church, there will be no vespers at St. Raphael on Saturday, January 8.
Holy Water Available
We have just celebrated the Feast of the Lord's Theophany, the celebration of His baptism. This is the service at which we ask the Holy Spirit to bless water, which we then use in the church and in our homes throughout the year. Bottles of holy water will be available to pick up this Sunday and next. If you have old, empty bottles at home, bring them and get them refilled.
January/February Calendars Available
Calendars with services and other events for January and February are printed and available in the narthex.
Scheduling House Blessings
Fr. Ignatius is beginning to schedule house blessings. If there is a day and time you would like him to come, please contact him to arrange.
Parish Council Meeting Agenda
Your Parish Council is meeting on Saturday, January 15 at 2pm on Zoom. If you desire to attend, please contact parish council chair Alli Rockwell or Fr. Ignatius to receive the Zoom link. Below is the meeting agenda.
10th Annual Dormition of the Mother of God Monastery Winter Micro-Retreat
The 10th Annual Dormition of the Mother of God Winter Micro-Retreat (known in previous years as the Winter Dinner for Dormition Monastery):
Thursday, Jan 20 starting at 4:45 PM
A Zoom Event you can attend from your computer, pad, smartphone or telephone or Smart TV (YOUTUBE LINK to be provided)
Agenda (all times are Eastern and may vary slightly):
4:45 PM - A video tour of the monastery followed by a brief welcome
5:00 PM - Vespers live from the monastery
6:00 PM - Welcome, Introductions and our SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: Archbishop Nathaniel, Ruling Hierarch of the Romanian Orthodox Episcopate of America (followed by Q&A)
7:00 PM - Closing Prayer
Notes:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar including a YOUTUBE Link for easier viewing on a large screen (Smart TV)
Register at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_EQ7jhkZ8SCOmbSPjDbs1cg
Re-Starting Sunday School
After taking a lengthy break because of the pandemic, we are resuming Sunday School for our children beginning on Sunday, January 23. Classes will meet weekly and start at 9:15am and ending in time for Liturgy at 10am. There will be three classes: Pre-K-3rd grade, 4-6 grade and 7-12 grade. All classes will be studying the Gospel of Matthew. Get your kids involved!
"Hygge Meets Agape: Intersections of Nordic Culture and Ancient Christianity" Talk by Nic Hartmann, PhD. on January 25
St. Raphael Church is sponsoring the above-titled talk by folklorist and Orthodox Christian Nic Hartmann which will take place at the Iowa Public Library at 6:30pm on January 25. A poster advertising the event is attached. If you know anyone who might be interested in attending, please share the information with them.
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)
Food for Thought
The Lord born from Mary, the Sun of Righteousness, sheds His rays upon the whole inhabited earth. Come then, unclothed children of Abraham, and let us clothe ourselves in Him, that we may warm ourselves. Thou Who art a protection and veil to the unclothed, a light to those in darkness, Thou hast come, Thou art made manifest, O Thou Light unapproachable.
- from the Oikos of matins of Theophany
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Contribute Toward Our Mortgage Without Spending a Dime!
Support St. Raphael Church while cleaning out your closet and decluttering your home. Consign items under the church's account numbers at Stuff, Etc East, Kidsworks, or Houseworks and 100% of the proceeds will go toward our mortgage principal.
Stuff, Etc. East - Account no. 22791
(319) 338-9909, 851 Hwy 6 E, Iowa City
Consign on a walk-in basis Tuesday-Saturday. One plastic tote (provided) and up to 5 larger items per person per visit. Any unaccepted items will be donated. Furniture is accepted seven days per week; drive around to the back of the building.
Houseworks - Account no. 019823
319-338-4357, 1800 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead for a consignment appointment. Items accepted include kitchenware, furniture, décor, some media (e.g. DVDs).
Kidworks - Account no. 19451
(319) 337-3921, 111 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead to make an appointment and to confirm types of items being accepted (e.g. in December they’re taking winter). Appointments are usually 9-9:45am M-S; Sundays 10-11:45 am; there are occasionally afternoon appointments available, particularly on weekends. Items must be free of rips, holes, stains, missing buttons, broken zippers, etc. Unaccepted items are donated to Heartland AEA.
Pray With Us For The Financial Stability of St. Raphael Church
Those who attended our annual meeting a few weeks ago heard about an effort to organize so that there are one or more people/families committed to praying on a set day once a week, for the financial stability of our parish. Several of you responded. If you haven't yet and you would like to, there is a sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board in the narthex. Sheets with suggested prayers are also available in the narthex.
2022 Financial Pledging Information
Pledge packets for 2022 are available at www.raphaelchurch.org where you can also see some helpful graphics showing the progress made toward fully funding our budget. Your Parish Council requests that you prayerfully consider what you plan to give to St. Raphael Church in 2022 and return the pledge form ASAP. All pledge commitments are confidential and if your income changes in the future and your pledge needs to be adjusted, our treasurer will accommodate you- no questions asked.
Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry has seen a slight increase in usage recently and this has led to less inventory. Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
Raising Money for Jenny Hope and John Michalski's Medical Expenses
St. Raphael Church members Jenny Hope and John Michalski need to raise $12,000 to utilize the services of a Functional Medicine MD for their various health concerns. Can you help them out? Here is the link to learn more and to donate. https://gofund.me/96349e5e
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2022, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, July and October and the 2nd Sunday of April- January 16, April 10, July 17 and October 16. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, and Derek 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? 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.
January 8, Saturday
+ Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water, 4:00pm (First Ave. bridge, downtown Cedar Rapids) followed by vespers at St. George Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave., Cedar Rapids)
January 9, Sunday
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
January 10, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 12, Wednesday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
+ Akathist, 7:00pm
January 13, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
January 14, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 15, Saturday
+ Parish Council meeting , 2:00pm (on Zoom)
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm
January 16, Sunday (29th Sunday after Pentecost)
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
Newest Announcements
Outdoor Blessing of Water
St. George Church in Cedar Rapids is hosting our annual Outdoor Blessing of Water this year. We will gather on the First Avenue bridge which spans the Cedar River in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4:00pm. Following that short service, all are welcome to attend Great Vespers at St. George Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
No Vespers at St. Raphael on January 8
Due to the Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water service in Cedar Rapids and Great Vespers at St. George Church, there will be no vespers at St. Raphael on Saturday, January 8.
Holy Water Available
We have just celebrated the Feast of the Lord's Theophany, the celebration of His baptism. This is the service at which we ask the Holy Spirit to bless water, which we then use in the church and in our homes throughout the year. Bottles of holy water will be available to pick up this Sunday and next. If you have old, empty bottles at home, bring them and get them refilled.
January/February Calendars Available
Calendars with services and other events for January and February are printed and available in the narthex.
Scheduling House Blessings
Fr. Ignatius is beginning to schedule house blessings. If there is a day and time you would like him to come, please contact him to arrange.
Parish Council Meeting Agenda
Your Parish Council is meeting on Saturday, January 15 at 2pm on Zoom. If you desire to attend, please contact parish council chair Alli Rockwell or Fr. Ignatius to receive the Zoom link. Below is the meeting agenda.
- Call to order and opening prayer
- Reading from Father
- Review/approve previous month’s meeting minutes
- Gratitude
- Assign PC roles for 2022
- Review Parish Council Roles document.
- One update from PC per week during announcements? Could rotate among the roles in the document.
- Charitable giving - discuss process; determine January recipient
- Treasurer’s Report
- Capital Campaign
- Grant writing updates
- Key conversations
- Nic Hartmann sponsored talk January 25
- Promotion
- IPR promo spots (see attached rate sheet)
- Posters
- Are we serving food?
- Promotion
- Debrief of Father and Alli’s meeting with Rachel Owen of Informed Choices
- Pascha Preparation Protocol (defer to Feb meeting if time runs out)
- Discuss Shelter House request for borrowing chairs
- Next meeting February 19, 2022 2-4pm via Zoom
- Adjourn
10th Annual Dormition of the Mother of God Monastery Winter Micro-Retreat
The 10th Annual Dormition of the Mother of God Winter Micro-Retreat (known in previous years as the Winter Dinner for Dormition Monastery):
Thursday, Jan 20 starting at 4:45 PM
A Zoom Event you can attend from your computer, pad, smartphone or telephone or Smart TV (YOUTUBE LINK to be provided)
Agenda (all times are Eastern and may vary slightly):
4:45 PM - A video tour of the monastery followed by a brief welcome
5:00 PM - Vespers live from the monastery
6:00 PM - Welcome, Introductions and our SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: Archbishop Nathaniel, Ruling Hierarch of the Romanian Orthodox Episcopate of America (followed by Q&A)
7:00 PM - Closing Prayer
Notes:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar including a YOUTUBE Link for easier viewing on a large screen (Smart TV)
Register at this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_EQ7jhkZ8SCOmbSPjDbs1cg
Re-Starting Sunday School
After taking a lengthy break because of the pandemic, we are resuming Sunday School for our children beginning on Sunday, January 23. Classes will meet weekly and start at 9:15am and ending in time for Liturgy at 10am. There will be three classes: Pre-K-3rd grade, 4-6 grade and 7-12 grade. All classes will be studying the Gospel of Matthew. Get your kids involved!
"Hygge Meets Agape: Intersections of Nordic Culture and Ancient Christianity" Talk by Nic Hartmann, PhD. on January 25
St. Raphael Church is sponsoring the above-titled talk by folklorist and Orthodox Christian Nic Hartmann which will take place at the Iowa Public Library at 6:30pm on January 25. A poster advertising the event is attached. If you know anyone who might be interested in attending, please share the information with them.
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)
Food for Thought
The Lord born from Mary, the Sun of Righteousness, sheds His rays upon the whole inhabited earth. Come then, unclothed children of Abraham, and let us clothe ourselves in Him, that we may warm ourselves. Thou Who art a protection and veil to the unclothed, a light to those in darkness, Thou hast come, Thou art made manifest, O Thou Light unapproachable.
- from the Oikos of matins of Theophany
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Contribute Toward Our Mortgage Without Spending a Dime!
Support St. Raphael Church while cleaning out your closet and decluttering your home. Consign items under the church's account numbers at Stuff, Etc East, Kidsworks, or Houseworks and 100% of the proceeds will go toward our mortgage principal.
Stuff, Etc. East - Account no. 22791
(319) 338-9909, 851 Hwy 6 E, Iowa City
Consign on a walk-in basis Tuesday-Saturday. One plastic tote (provided) and up to 5 larger items per person per visit. Any unaccepted items will be donated. Furniture is accepted seven days per week; drive around to the back of the building.
Houseworks - Account no. 019823
319-338-4357, 1800 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead for a consignment appointment. Items accepted include kitchenware, furniture, décor, some media (e.g. DVDs).
Kidworks - Account no. 19451
(319) 337-3921, 111 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead to make an appointment and to confirm types of items being accepted (e.g. in December they’re taking winter). Appointments are usually 9-9:45am M-S; Sundays 10-11:45 am; there are occasionally afternoon appointments available, particularly on weekends. Items must be free of rips, holes, stains, missing buttons, broken zippers, etc. Unaccepted items are donated to Heartland AEA.
Pray With Us For The Financial Stability of St. Raphael Church
Those who attended our annual meeting a few weeks ago heard about an effort to organize so that there are one or more people/families committed to praying on a set day once a week, for the financial stability of our parish. Several of you responded. If you haven't yet and you would like to, there is a sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board in the narthex. Sheets with suggested prayers are also available in the narthex.
2022 Financial Pledging Information
Pledge packets for 2022 are available at www.raphaelchurch.org where you can also see some helpful graphics showing the progress made toward fully funding our budget. Your Parish Council requests that you prayerfully consider what you plan to give to St. Raphael Church in 2022 and return the pledge form ASAP. All pledge commitments are confidential and if your income changes in the future and your pledge needs to be adjusted, our treasurer will accommodate you- no questions asked.
Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry has seen a slight increase in usage recently and this has led to less inventory. Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
- Canned Tuna and Chicken
- Any Canned Soup, especially soups with meat
- Canned Chili with meat
- Canned Fruit
- Breakfast cereal
Raising Money for Jenny Hope and John Michalski's Medical Expenses
St. Raphael Church members Jenny Hope and John Michalski need to raise $12,000 to utilize the services of a Functional Medicine MD for their various health concerns. Can you help them out? Here is the link to learn more and to donate. https://gofund.me/96349e5e
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2022, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, July and October and the 2nd Sunday of April- January 16, April 10, July 17 and October 16. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, and Derek 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? 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.
Sunday January 2, 2022- Sunday Before Theophany
Upcoming Services and Events
January 1, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm (live streamed to Facebook page)
January 2, Sunday
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
January 3, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 5, Wednesday
+ Royal Hours for Theophany, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ Matins and Liturgy for Theophany, 5:00pm
January 6, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
January 7, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 8, Saturday
+ Outdoor Blessing of Water in Cedar Rapids, 4:00pm (First Ave. bridge over Cedar River)
+ Great Vespers at St. George Church, 5:00pm
January 9, Sunday (Sunday After Theophany)
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
Newest Announcements
Theophany Services
The next major feast is Theophany, the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord. On Wednesday, January 5, we will have Royal Hours at 9:00am, matins at 5:00pm and Liturgy at 6:00pm.
Outdoor Blessing of Water
St. George Church in Cedar Rapids is hosting our annual Outdoor Blessing of Water this year. We will gather on the First Avenue bridge which spans the Cedar River in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4:00pm. Following that short service, all are welcome to attend Great Vespers at St. George Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
No Vespers at St. Raphael on January 8
Due to the Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water service in Cedar Rapids and Great Vespers at St. George Church, there will be no vespers at St. Raphael on Saturday, January 8.
Feasting After Fasting
Beginning on December 25, there is no fasting until January 5, the Eve of Theophany.
January/February Calendars Available
Calendars with services and other events for January and February are printed and available in the narthex.
Scheduling House Blessings
Fr. Ignatius will soon start to contact some of you about scheduling a time in January or February for a house blessing.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulon and Naphtali, so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “The land of Zebulon and the land of Naphtali, toward the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.” From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:12-17)
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 alone reign in me, O Thou, my King and Lord!
- Prayer of St. Dimitri of Rostov
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Holy Bread and Artos Sign-up for 2022
Sign-up sheets for providing the holy bread for each liturgy in 2022 are posted on the bulletin board at the top of the stairs. New this year- there are certain liturgical feasts that are ranked such that the services of litia and artoklasia can be inserted into vespers. Those opportunities when it would be appropriate to have the festal, sweet "artos" bread are also listed on this same sign-up sheet.
Contribute Toward Our Mortgage Without Spending a Dime!
Support St. Raphael Church while cleaning out your closet and decluttering your home. Consign items under the church's account numbers at Stuff, Etc East, Kidsworks, or Houseworks and 100% of the proceeds will go toward our mortgage principal.
Stuff, Etc. East - Account no. 22791
(319) 338-9909, 851 Hwy 6 E, Iowa City
Consign on a walk-in basis Tuesday-Saturday. One plastic tote (provided) and up to 5 larger items per person per visit. Any unaccepted items will be donated. Furniture is accepted seven days per week; drive around to the back of the building.
Houseworks - Account no. 019823
319-338-4357, 1800 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead for a consignment appointment. Items accepted include kitchenware, furniture, décor, some media (e.g. DVDs).
Kidworks - Account no. 19451
(319) 337-3921, 111 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead to make an appointment and to confirm types of items being accepted (e.g. in December they’re taking winter). Appointments are usually 9-9:45am M-S; Sundays 10-11:45 am; there are occasionally afternoon appointments available, particularly on weekends. Items must be free of rips, holes, stains, missing buttons, broken zippers, etc. Unaccepted items are donated to Heartland AEA.
Pray With Us For The Financial Stability of St. Raphael Church
Those who attended our annual meeting a few weeks ago heard about an effort to organize so that there are one or more people/families committed to praying on a set day once a week, for the financial stability of our parish. Several of you responded. If you haven't yet and you would like to, there is a sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board in the narthex. Sheets with suggested prayers are also available in the narthex.
2022 Financial Pledging Information
Pledge packets for 2022 are available at www.raphaelchurch.org where you can also see some helpful graphics showing the progress made toward fully funding our budget. Your Parish Council requests that you prayerfully consider what you plan to give to St. Raphael Church in 2022 and return the pledge form ASAP. All pledge commitments are confidential and if your income changes in the future and your pledge needs to be adjusted, our treasurer will accommodate you- no questions asked.
Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry has seen a slight increase in usage recently and this has led to less inventory. Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
Raising Money for Jenny Hope and John Michalski's Medical Expenses
St. Raphael Church members Jenny Hope and John Michalski need to raise $12,000 to utilize the services of a Functional Medicine MD for their various health concerns. Can you help them out? Here is the link to learn more and to donate. https://gofund.me/96349e5e
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2022, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, July and October and the 2nd Sunday of April- January 16, April 10, July 17 and October 16. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, and Derek 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? 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.
January 1, Saturday
+ Great Vespers, 5:00pm (live streamed to Facebook page)
January 2, Sunday
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
January 3, Monday
+ Office Hours, 2:00pm-5:00pm
+ 9th Hour Prayers, 3:00pm
January 5, Wednesday
+ Royal Hours for Theophany, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ Matins and Liturgy for Theophany, 5:00pm
January 6, Thursday
+ Office Hours, 11:00am-2:00pm
+ 6th Hour Prayers, 12:00pm
January 7, Friday
+ 3rd Hour Prayers, 9:00am
+ Office Hours, 9:15am-12:00pm
January 8, Saturday
+ Outdoor Blessing of Water in Cedar Rapids, 4:00pm (First Ave. bridge over Cedar River)
+ Great Vespers at St. George Church, 5:00pm
January 9, Sunday (Sunday After Theophany)
+ Matins & Divine Liturgy, 8:45am/10:00am (live streamed to Facebook page)
+ Coffee/Fellowship Hour, 12:00pm
Newest Announcements
Theophany Services
The next major feast is Theophany, the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord. On Wednesday, January 5, we will have Royal Hours at 9:00am, matins at 5:00pm and Liturgy at 6:00pm.
Outdoor Blessing of Water
St. George Church in Cedar Rapids is hosting our annual Outdoor Blessing of Water this year. We will gather on the First Avenue bridge which spans the Cedar River in downtown Cedar Rapids at 4:00pm. Following that short service, all are welcome to attend Great Vespers at St. George Church (3650 Cottage Grove Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids)
No Vespers at St. Raphael on January 8
Due to the Pan-Orthodox Outdoor Blessing of Water service in Cedar Rapids and Great Vespers at St. George Church, there will be no vespers at St. Raphael on Saturday, January 8.
Feasting After Fasting
Beginning on December 25, there is no fasting until January 5, the Eve of Theophany.
January/February Calendars Available
Calendars with services and other events for January and February are printed and available in the narthex.
Scheduling House Blessings
Fr. Ignatius will soon start to contact some of you about scheduling a time in January or February for a house blessing.
Next Sunday's Gospel Reading
At that time, when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulon and Naphtali, so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “The land of Zebulon and the land of Naphtali, toward the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.” From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:12-17)
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 alone reign in me, O Thou, my King and Lord!
- Prayer of St. Dimitri of Rostov
________________________________
Recurring Announcements
Holy Bread and Artos Sign-up for 2022
Sign-up sheets for providing the holy bread for each liturgy in 2022 are posted on the bulletin board at the top of the stairs. New this year- there are certain liturgical feasts that are ranked such that the services of litia and artoklasia can be inserted into vespers. Those opportunities when it would be appropriate to have the festal, sweet "artos" bread are also listed on this same sign-up sheet.
Contribute Toward Our Mortgage Without Spending a Dime!
Support St. Raphael Church while cleaning out your closet and decluttering your home. Consign items under the church's account numbers at Stuff, Etc East, Kidsworks, or Houseworks and 100% of the proceeds will go toward our mortgage principal.
Stuff, Etc. East - Account no. 22791
(319) 338-9909, 851 Hwy 6 E, Iowa City
Consign on a walk-in basis Tuesday-Saturday. One plastic tote (provided) and up to 5 larger items per person per visit. Any unaccepted items will be donated. Furniture is accepted seven days per week; drive around to the back of the building.
Houseworks - Account no. 019823
319-338-4357, 1800 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead for a consignment appointment. Items accepted include kitchenware, furniture, décor, some media (e.g. DVDs).
Kidworks - Account no. 19451
(319) 337-3921, 111 Stevens Dr, Iowa City
Call ahead to make an appointment and to confirm types of items being accepted (e.g. in December they’re taking winter). Appointments are usually 9-9:45am M-S; Sundays 10-11:45 am; there are occasionally afternoon appointments available, particularly on weekends. Items must be free of rips, holes, stains, missing buttons, broken zippers, etc. Unaccepted items are donated to Heartland AEA.
Pray With Us For The Financial Stability of St. Raphael Church
Those who attended our annual meeting a few weeks ago heard about an effort to organize so that there are one or more people/families committed to praying on a set day once a week, for the financial stability of our parish. Several of you responded. If you haven't yet and you would like to, there is a sign-up sheet posted on the bulletin board in the narthex. Sheets with suggested prayers are also available in the narthex.
2022 Financial Pledging Information
Pledge packets for 2022 are available at www.raphaelchurch.org where you can also see some helpful graphics showing the progress made toward fully funding our budget. Your Parish Council requests that you prayerfully consider what you plan to give to St. Raphael Church in 2022 and return the pledge form ASAP. All pledge commitments are confidential and if your income changes in the future and your pledge needs to be adjusted, our treasurer will accommodate you- no questions asked.
Food Pantry Needs
Our food pantry has seen a slight increase in usage recently and this has led to less inventory. Can you add an item or two (or more) from the list below to your shopping list each week? You can also donate funds (which will be used to purchase items to stock the shelves) by clearly designating your donation for the food pantry and mailing it in or giving online through the church's website.
- Peanut butter
- Jelly
- Canned Tuna and Chicken
- Any Canned Soup, especially soups with meat
- Canned Chili with meat
- Canned Fruit
- Breakfast cereal
Raising Money for Jenny Hope and John Michalski's Medical Expenses
St. Raphael Church members Jenny Hope and John Michalski need to raise $12,000 to utilize the services of a Functional Medicine MD for their various health concerns. Can you help them out? Here is the link to learn more and to donate. https://gofund.me/96349e5e
Prayers for the Departed
One of the great acts of Christian mercy is to care for the dead. Part of our care for the dead is that we commend them to God through prayer. Although St. Raphael members can request prayers for their departed Orthodox loved ones to be said in church anytime, we are beginning a practice of setting aside one Sunday per quarter for praying the Trisagion Memorial prayers for the Departed at the end of Liturgy. In 2022, these will be the 3rd Sunday of January, July and October and the 2nd Sunday of April- January 16, April 10, July 17 and October 16. If you have names of departed Orthodox Christians who you would like to be prayed for, please submit your list to Fr. Ignatius. A note regarding non-Orthodox departed- we can pray for anyone who has departed, on our own, outside of church, and if you would like, Fr. Ignatius can arrange to pray with you in your homes for your non-Orthodox loved ones, but it is the practice of our archdiocese to publicly offer the Trisagion Prayers only for baptized members of the Orthodox Church.
Pray for our Catechumens
Please keep our catechumens Ilya Buchkin, Scott Dorr, Madison Frei, Michael Spies, and Derek 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? 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.
