CHRIST IS BORN! GLORIFY HIM!
V. Rev Frank Paul Mayernick and Presbytera Joanie, December 2004

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

CHRIST IS BORN! GLORIFY HIM!

I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to worship with us at the parish of St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Chapel Gulf Shores, Alabama. The Liturgy is on Sundays at 10:00 AM.

We are currently observing the Advent Fast which began on November 15th and will end on Christmas Day. Time is running out as we rush from store to store searching for the perfect gift for our loved ones during the month of December. As we rush around, let us remember that we must take time to attend Church. The Church hymns express great joy announcing that Christ is born! The perfect gift will arrive soon! The Christ Child is about to be born! He is the perfect gift!

Christ is born; glorify Him!

Christ comes from heaven; go to meet Him!

Christ is on earth; be exalted!

Sing to the Lord, all the earth!

And praise Him in gladness, O people, for He has been glorified!

The Virgin Mary, the Theotokos (the Mother of God), responded in humility when she consented to bear the Christ-Child. Christ chose a humble cave in which to be born. The shepherds gathered around the manger in reverence to the newborn King. The three wise kings traveled vast distances to pay homage to a baby in a cave used to shelter farm animals. Wise men keeling, shepherds and angels singing are great images of this wonderful event in the history of mankind! We are awe struck when we realize that God is among us! Christ`s birthplace also reminds us that He depends upon each of us to welcome Him into our own homes, and to make Him part of our lives and families. Take the time make the effort to welcome the New Born Child into your hearts, and your homes!

May Christ’s peace, love and joy shine brightly in your hearts and your homes during this Christmas season.

From our home to yours God’s Rich Blessings!

V. Rev Frank Paul Mayernick and Presbytera Joanie