Reverend Father John E. Artemas, May 2009

Reverend Father John E. Artemas, May 2009

Beloved Sisters and Brothers in our Living and Loving Lord, Faithful Members of our St. Nicholas Church,

Christ is Risen!      Truly He is Risen!

Christos Anesti!      Alithos Anesti!

1. Throughout the history of humanity many arrogant and ignorant people have attempted – and still attempt – to “kill” God, and exalt man as king and “god” of the universe. But when man rejects, ignores, defies and “kills” God, he only achieves his own misery and death.

2. Faithful Christians around the world celebrate Pascha / Easter / Christian Passover and proclaim the Resurrection of Christ, the Incarnate Son of God. The historical record convinces all reasonable people that Jesus Christ truly rose from the dead. Our Faith is not “blind” it is rational, reasonable, and life-transforming. “Because He lives, we shall live also.”

3. So many of our people participated in our Holy Week and Resurrection services. All of us, together, were refreshed and renewed through the services and sacraments of our Church, by the power of Christ’s Resurrection. And now, may we continue to live and walk as “children of light”.

4. Our St. Nicholas Church is grateful to all faithful members and volunteers who contributed toward the beauty of our Holy Week and Easter services: Those who prepared the palm crosses, dyed the Easter eggs, decorated the Epitaphio, our wonderful chanters , choir members and altar boys, the girls that served as myrrh-bearers, the members of the Parish Council, the many faithful members of our St. Nicholas Church who made special donations and monetary gifts, and all of you who attended and participated in the many services. And now, please continue coming. Continue receiving the light, life, hope and comfort that Jesus
     Christ offers to ALL who come to Him.

5. Our annual Greek Festival is quickly approaching (June 19, 20, 21). Please do your best to purchase or sell the raffle ticket that was mailed to you. If you are able, request and sell more tickets. Our church is in need of increased revenues to cover its expenses and continue ministering to our people. Don’t forget, the Early Bird drawing will be held on Sunday, May 10 (Mother’s Day).

6. Please review all of the announcements in this newsletter and participate as much as possible in the various services and programs. For the many needs of our beloved St. Nicholas Church we continue to trust and rely on all of you, the faithful and devout members, for your support through our stewardship program and other fund-raising activities. I am hopeful that more and more of you will cultivate the good habit of sending a monthly contribution toward your stewardship. And hopefully more of you can become Leadership 100 Stewards by contributing $100 or more per month toward your stewardship. Continue to do your best and the Lord will bless and reward you.

7. I pray for all of you regularly, and I am here to serve and minister to you in the Blessed Name of Jesus. Don’t hesitate to call on me. With much joy, I look forward to worshiping with you every Sunday.

With Sincere Love for all of you
in Christ, Our Living and Loving Lord,

† Father John E. Artemas
Pastor – Protopresbyter

“ We venerate your Cross, O Master and we glorify
your Holy Resurrection”