In recent decades, many issues of morality have been turned political, for the benefit of a few, and detriment of many. Homosexuality is one such issue, often viewed now as a conduit to a voting demographic in election years, or the dynamic for groups, supportive and opposing, to gain exposure for their own agendas. How unfortunate that these are now part of the our society’s common perception of homosexuality, rather that actual people. As most, if not all, issues politicized, the movement is agenda driven. “Gay agendas” are commonly referred to, in support and opposition, yet very few that I have ever heard of actually support the struggles of an individual. I came across this article on http://www.orthodoxytoday.org, and felt obligated to give it some attention—as the anonymous author writes with a Christian agenda of love, manifest through repentance, honesty, and humility.
To this anonymous author, you are in my prayers as you struggle in the vineyard of the Lord!
International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) exemplifies fiscal and program efficiency for non-profit organizations. 8% overhead for a non-profit was once a mythical goal, but has been brought into reality by Holy Spirit through the IOCC. I will allow you to do your own research in finding overhead levels of national and international ‘charities’ that are household names—levels from 20% - over 50%! Visit http://www.iocc.org to learn more about this phenomenal Christian Ministry Organization!
September 11, 2001 marks a heinous event in world history—the terrorist attacks of Muslim terrorists on American soil, murdering thousands of innocent people. As Americans, our responses may vary based upon our our abilities, yet it is our universal responsibility to pray for those who were affected by such hatred and evil. At Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Christian Church, we will actualize this powerful and continual response by praying for the souls of those victims. During the weekend events of our annual Greek Food Festival, Friday, September 11, at 5:00 pm, a memorial service will be prayed at Saint Basil’s, in the church. All are welcome to attend and participate in this Christian and American response to this sad day in world history. Please join us.
Stockton"s #1 cultural event! Come experience Hellenic culture / cuisine and attend experience the Christian Church of the Apostles through church tours at Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Christian Church! This weekend, beginning Friday at 12:00 noon and extending through the evenings, both Saturday and Sunday.
The 2009 Metropolis of San Francisco Spiritual Renewal Retreat was a tremendous success! Hosted by Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Camarillo, CA, presenters; Father Gary Kyriacou, Father Luke Palumbis, and featured presenter, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Chris Hillman, explored the topic of ‘Christian Themes in Pop Media.’ Spirituality is the experience of relationships built upon the foundation of Jesus Christ - music and movies from American culture can serve as a tremendous conduit, connecting conversation to issues of spiritual substance. In the coming weeks, all presentations from the 2009 retreat will be made available for viewing on the Metropolis of SF website. Stay tuned into this blog for further information, so that you, or your parish community, may experience the 2009 Metropolis of San Francisco Spiritual Renewal Retreat!
As a child, one of my favorite occasions was a trip to the Baskin & Robbins ice cream store. Whether with the entire family or simply ‘running in’ while my mom or dad waited in the car — the mere vision of 31 flavors was a beautiful thing, and warranted my full attention! For myself, I was never too adventurous and remained with a few trusted flavors; chocolate chip, root beer, and good old fashion vanilla!
Baskin & Robbins teaches a profound lesson in an American principle, the ability to differentiate and choose from multiple options. Whether we attach a fancy title to that process, such as ‘market options, diversification, or competitive field,’ it simply comes down to what we learned as kids in front of those windows, staring at 31 delicious flavors.
This process works tremendously in the free-market system, developing higher quality products as a result of competition. However, when it has been applied to Christianity, such as in the case of Christian churches in America, a dangerous and common process of watering-down of substance takes place with each new ‘innovative flavor.’ Yet once we find it, even before we are able to absolutely commit ourselves to Christ’s Holy and Orthodox Church, we must first have an understanding and experience of ‘what flavor it is.’
Many ‘church flavors’ exist; youth, senior, programs, hall rentals, community center, ethnic, etc. . . however, in Orthodoxy, without denying any of the above, or other applicable dynamics, first and foremost:
THE ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN CHURCH IS A WORSHIPING CHURCH!
Through liturgical and individualized prayer, the Church provides an opportunity for the faithful to experience God. With the experience of God, healing and authentic purpose enters into the lives of the faithful as we progress through the life we have been blessed with; whether, old or young, man or woman, rich or poor! Through a dedication to the worshipping life of Christ’s Church, the Christian pilgrimage becomes a blessed lifestyle that journeys through the highs and lows of life, not promising easy times, but affirming a foundation that will withstand any challenge that this life may encounter!
September 1 marks the Ecclesiastical New Year once again beginning the cycle of liturgical services in Christ’s Holy Church. You are invited to journey and be edified by the worshipping life of the Orthodox Church as it is prayed at Saint Basil’s and in conjunction with the millions of other Orthodox Christians world-wide!
“What flavor is the Orthodox Church?” “The worshipping kind.” Take a bite!
+Fr Luke Palumbis