2017-09-17-bulletin-for-sunday
Holy Cross Melkite Catholic Church Bulletin. Sunday, September 17, 2017.
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost. The Great Commandment.
September 17. Fourth Day of Celebration of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross; commemoration of the Holy Martyr Sophie and her three daughters, Faith, Hope and Charity.
Sophie (which means wisdom) and her three daughters were martyred in Rome, probably under Emperor Hadrian (117-138).
Our Eastern Christian Formation (Sunday School) program for all children up to grade 8 will re-start on September 24, 2017. Registration deadline is on September 17, 2017. We also need teachers and assistants for our program. Please contact the office if you are interested in teaching our wonderful children. (714) 985-1710. The registration form is available at: holycrossmelkite.org/ministries/ecf
Holy Cross Church Festival.
Raffle winners:
Large Hookah- Stephan Estephan. (Donated by So-Cal Hookahs Catering).
Wood Cross from Jerusalem- Enayat Mekhiel. (Donated by Pier Azar).
Blue Jeweled Bracelet- Elie and Rosemarie Nasr. (Donated by Oscar and Eileen Tajdini).
Purple Jeweled Bracelet- Peter & Jennifer Nader. (Donated by Oscar and Eileen Tajdini).
Blue Jeweled Bracelet- David and Nabiha Estephan. (Donated by Oscar and Eileen Tajdini).
Pink Jeweled Bracelet- Breyana Moussq. (Donated by Oscar and Eileen Tajdini).
Red Jeweled Bracelet- Steve Weaver. (Donated by Oscar and Eileen Tajdini).
Gold Cross- Faiez & Christina Ennabe. (Donated by Stoned Love- Suzy Adem).
Holiday Inn and Suites Gift Certificate- Marguerite Sayegh. (Donated by Paula Mihalow).
40 Inch T.V. - Marwan & Alexi Kashou. (Donated by Hicham and Patricia Semaan)
IPad- Ms. Lily Karam. (Donated by John & Zeina Skoury).
14k Yellow Gold with Rubies & Diamond Cross- Nohad and Hafez Sabbagh. (Donated by Nabil & Helam Genaoui).
Gold-Pearl Neckless- Michel Semaan. (Donated by Happy Jewlers -Gabe Arik).
Car- Zeina Abouakl. (Donated by Holy Cross Church and Cardinale Way).
The Melkite Eastern Catholic Community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. Please invite your family and friends and remind everyone in the area to join us. We will meet in the hall at 5:45 p.m. to review the hymns and the Divine Liturgy will begin in the Church at exactly 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 17, 2017 at Saint Kilian’s. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (off Marguerite Parkway).
2017 dates: Sunday, September 17, Sunday, October 8, Sunday, November 12, and Sunday, December 10.
If you live or know anyone who lives in the area surrounding Mission Viejo please give us their contact information so that we can keep everyone informed on upcoming events. Please send contact details to the parish office at (714) 985-1710 or email a list of names to Father François at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain” (Psalm 127:1).
St. Anne Annual Festival. September 15, 16, and 17.
What: Middle Eastern Food Festival featuring: good food, live music, games, raffles, a silent auction and other entertainment.
When: September 15, 2017 from 7:00 p.m. to midnight.
September 16, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. to midnight.
September 17, 2017 from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Where: 11211 Moorpark St., North Hollywood, CA 91602. (818) 761-2034.
Sunday, September 24, 2017. Theosis Meeting in the conference room at 1:30 p.m. Adult members of Holy Cross Church are invited to learn more about their Eastern Byzantine tradition by attending our monthly meetings to discuss how Scripture and Christ’s teachings show us how God became man in order so that man can become God-like.
The Women’s Silent Retreat in November is nearly sold out so if you wish to attend for the weekend of November 10 - 12, plan to make your reservation without delay. Many women attend only on Saturday for a reduced cost, and there are plenty of available spaces. The beauty of Sacred Heart Retreat House in Alhambra coupled with the joyful and spirit-filled Carmelite Sisters will remain in your heart for months and months. Please call Melinda Guinaldo at (714) 403-8455 for information and reservations.
Holy Cross Youth Ministry Spiritual Meetings take place every Sunday following the Divine Liturgy.
Holy Cross Young Adults Group. We are going to plan social and religious activities to build our Young Adults Community at Holy Cross Church. Come join our life changing group. Feel free to bring your friends and family. Ages 21-35. Meet at Holy Cross Church every first Sunday of the month after the Divine Liturgy.
Choir practice. Please join our choir practice every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Cross Melkite Catholic Church to review the regular hymns of the Divine Liturgy and learn new ones. Everyone is welcome.
The choir practice for the Melkite Eastern Catholic community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church (26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691) will be at 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. The upcoming choir practices are on Thursday, September 14 and 28. Parish center. Room 6.
Listen to Melkite audio links on our parish website at holycrossmelkite.org/melkite-hymns
We uploaded many Melkite hymns for the Divine Liturgy and other important services. To practice or become more familiar with our beautiful liturgical hymns you can listen or download them by visiting the above link.
Your Sunday donation envelopes are mailed to you every two months. These envelopes are dated with your envelope number on the back. The next mailout also contains the September and October Church calendar. Please contact the office if you are not registered or did not receive your envelopes. Thank you.
Vocation Awareness. In today’s Epistle, Saint Paul is very aware that he is called to be a preacher and teacher of Christ to others. In the Gospel, Christ is very aware that the Father has sent Him to bring about salvation. Are we doing what we can to help young men become aware of their call to the priesthood, to be ministers, preachers, and teachers of salvation?
Vocation View. Saint Paul urges Christian readers to live a life of communion, in mutual love, and in the love that God has given us. Jesus teaches us the importance and implications of that life of loving communion. Who shall preach and teach it to us today? Pray for an increase of vocations to the priesthood and monastic life and encourage possible candidates.
A Prayer for Vocations. O Lord God, in every age, You invite men and women to hear Your call to serve You and the Church. We bow before You now, asking that You call forth more persons to serve our Melkite Church in America. Give us priests, deacons, monks and nuns, who will lead and guide your holy people. By Your will, bless us with vocations so that we continue to be the church which You called us to be, centuries ago. Let all hear Your voice inviting them to care for and serve Your people. Strengthen us in being disciples of Jesus Christ, Your Only-begotten Son and fishers of men. Inspire in us the spirit and pride of Antioch, our holy heritage. We ask You, O Lover of mankind, to raise up men and women who appreciate what they have received from You and who want to be generous in their service, willing to offer their lives and all their gifts, to serve others, to give You glory, thanksgiving and worship, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and always and forever and ever. Amen.
Receive the emailed weekly Holy Cross Church Bulletin and Homily. If you or someone you known would like to receive the emailed weekly parish bulletin or homily please sign up on our website or email or call the office. Please also let us know if you are on our list but have changed your email.
Do you want to be inspired and learn more about your Catholic Faith? Listen to Immaculate Heart Catholic Radio on 930 am. For further information visit their website or call 1-888-887-7120.
Saturday October 21, 2017. 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Servants of the Sacred Heart JMJ Present: Apparitions of Our Lady with Fr. George Reynolds and Deacon Ron Butler with Healing Mass at St. Juliana Falconieri Church 1316 N. Acacia Ave, Fullerton, CA 92831. For more information call Donna 909-772-5233; any other questions call Rosalie 949-443-4079. $20 registration includes gourmet luncheon; $25 after October 18. On-site registration available. Lunch guaranteed with registration received by October 18 or call 949-443-4079 if you plan to attend for lunch count. A reservation form must be completed for each person attending, however, you may submit a single payment for all registrations. Please respond early as space fills quickly. Make checks payable to: The Servants of the Sacred Heart of JMJ. Mail to: The Servants of the Sacred Heart of JMJ, 1002 Harthorn Lane, Fillmore, CA 93015.
Catholic Charities of California Invites you on Pilgrimage. Join us for pilgrimages in Italy (Via Francigena), Spain (Camino de Santiago), and Greece (Footsteps of St. Paul) in 2017 and 2018. These pilgrimages will promise to be one of the most spiritual experiences of your life and give you the chance to support programs that serve Californians in need! We have limited spaces available! To sign up or for more information, contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call (916) 706-1539.
Thank you for your ongoing generous donations:
Wednesday, August 2 build fund deposit: $2,940.
Saturday, August 5 collection: $149.
Sunday, August 6 collection: $1,840 in 31 envelopes (average of $59.34 per envelope) + $140 cash + $77 candles = $2,057
Wednesday, August 9 building fund deposit: $2,675.
Sunday, August 13 collection: $2175 in 49 envelopes (average of $44.29 per envelope) + $98 cash + $59 candles = $2,332.
Sunday, August 13 Mission Viejo collection: $1,113 in 14 envelopes (averge of $79.5 per envelope).
Wednesday, August 16 building fund deposit: $2,240.
Sunday, August 20 collection: $835 in 29 envelopes (average of $28.79 per envelope) + $115 cash + $137 candles = $1,087.
Wednesday, August 23 building fund deposit: $615.
Sunday, August 27 collection: $1,960 in 51 envelopes (average of $38.41 per envelope) + $160 cash + $100 candles = $2,220.
Wednesday, August 30 building fund deposit: $1,685.
Saturday, September 2 collection: $255 in 8 envelopes (average of $31.88 per envelope) + $48 cash = $303.
Sunday, September 3 collection: $1,215 in 25 envelopes (average of $48.60 per envelope) + $124 cash + $93 candles = $1,432.
Wednesday, September 6 building fund deposit: $3,636.
Sunday, September 10 collection: $912 in 29 envelopes (average of $31.45 per envelope) + $211 cash + $170 candles = $1,293.
Wednesday, September 13 building fund deposit: $565.
Total deposits in the past three months: July: $31,765; August: $19,108; September: $7,229
Sample Holy Cross Church Expenses:
$320.27 paid on August 30, 2017 for Cleaning services.
$150.53 paid on August 30, 2017 for American Chemical & Sanitary Supply.
$200.00 paid on August 30, 2017 for Gardening services.
$630.77 paid on August 30, 2017 for Sunday School Books.
$1,155.88 paid on September 1, 2017 for Golden State Water Company.
$118.63 paid on September 5, 2017 for Office Printer Lease.
$692.74 paid on September 11, 2017 for So-Cal Edison Electricity.
Hymns: (See our Church’s website for Audio Recordings: holycrossmelkite.org/melkite-hymns)
Troparion of the Resurrection (Tone 6). The angelic powers appeared at your tomb, and the guards became as dead men, and Mary stood by the Sepulcher seeking your spotless Body. You despoiled Hades and yet were not tempted by it, You met the Virgin O Bestower of Life. O Lord who rose from the dead glory to you.
Troparion of the Feast (Tone 1). “O Lord, save Your people and bless Your inheritance, granting peace to the world. And preserve Your community by the power of Your Cross.”
Kondakion of the Feast (Tone 4). O Christ God, who chose by Your free volition to be elevated upon the holy cross, grant Your mercies to Your new people who are called by Your name. In Your power gladden the hearts of our public authorities. Strengthen them in every good deed so that Your true alliance may be for them a weapon of peace and a standard of victory.
Troparion of the Holy Cross (Tone 2). O Lord, save your people and bless your inheritance. Strengthen our Public Authorities in every good deed and protect your nation with your Cross.
Epistle: Galatians 2:16-21. Full reading below. If you would like to read the Epistle please contact the office.
Gospel: Mark 8:34-9:1. Full reading below.
Today’s Divine Liturgy is celebrated for
the repose of the souls of:
Becky Bode (September 9, 2017), Brian Visconti (September 8, 2017), Stacy Bladdel (September 4, 2017), John Michael Dumont (September 3, 2017), Itaf Maalouf (August 31, 2017), Ed Alvarez (August 22, 2017), Elias Salman (August 20, 2017), Ann Moloney (August 15, 2017), Issa Ghassan Kashou (August 6, 2017), Issa Shihade (August 6, 2017), Alfred Michael Genadry (August 5, 2017).
the health, safety, and salvation of:
Atalla Al-Assad, Rodger & Diane Aeschliman, Joseph Italia, Bobby Mayo, Linda Raya, Marie Semaan, Salim Semaan, Houri Seradarian, Sayf Tashman, Yasmeen Tashman, Kathy Urell, Ray Woods.
For vocations to the priesthood, monastic life, and lay parish ministries.
For peace in Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, and all the troubled regions around the world.
Scripture Memory:
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)
“Jesus called to him the multitude with his disciples, and said to them, ‘If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. [35] For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it. [36] For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? [37] For what can a man give in return for his life?” (Mark 8:34-37)
Thursday, September 14.
7:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy for the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy and Life Giving Cross, with the lighting of the fire. We are very honored to have the Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulcher come to pray with us today.
7:00 p.m. Choir practice for the Melkite Eastern Catholic community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. Parish center. Room 6. Second and fourth Thursdays of each month.
September 15-17. Saint Anne Annual Festival.
What: Middle Eastern Food Festival featuring: good food, live music, games, raffles, a silent auction and other entertainment.
When: September 15, 2017 from 7:00 p.m. to Midnight. September 16, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. to Midnight. September 17, 2017 from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Where: 11211 Moorpark St., N Hollywood CA 91602. (818) 761-2034.
Saturday, September 16.
9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Magnificat Prayer Breakfast presents author and dynamic speaker Deacon Steve Greco, “You are the Light of the World. A City Set on a Hill Cannot be Hidden.” Attend this inspiring testimony which reveals Deacon Steve’s tremendous zeal for souls and his deep relationship with Jesus Christ! Embassy Suites Anaheim – South, 11767 Harbor Blvd., Garden Grove, CA 92840. Registration by mail must be postmarked by Sept. 11, 2017: $28 per person. Registration at the door: $33 per person. Reserved Seating for Tables of 10 - $280. Mail to Magnificat Ministry: P.O. Box 4381, Orange, CA 92863. The meal includes a full plated breakfast as well as the speaker’s program. Please visit www.magnificat-ministry.net for a flyer and registration information. Flyers are also available in the vestibule of your parish Church. For registration information contact Anne at (714) 420-5482 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
4:30 p.m. Confession. Holy Cross Church.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer). Holy Cross Church.
Sunday, September 17. Sunday After the Holy Cross.
Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School Registration Deadline.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy in English.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12. Discussion on the meaning of the Holy Cross.
5:45 p.m. Music practice in the hall.
6:30 p.m. Divine Liturgy. The Melkite Eastern Catholic Community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691.
Friday, September 22-Sunday, September 24.
38th Annual Oktoberfest at Saint Martin de Porres Roman Catholic Church. 19767 Yorba Linda Blvd, Yorba Linda, CA 92886. Phone: (714) 970-2771. https://smdpyl.org
Saturday, September 23.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, September 24. First Sunday After the Holy Cross.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy in English.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12. Four Signs of a Dynamic Catholic. What is a Dynamic Catholic?
1:30 p.m. Theosis Meeting in the conference room. Adult members of Holy Cross Church are invited to learn more about our Eastern Catholic Byzantine tradition by attending our monthly meetings to discuss how Scripture and Christ’s teachings show us how God became man in order so that man can become God-like.
Tuesday, September 26.
11:30 a.m. Father François Beyrouti will give a talk on God’s Role in our Lives. Location: The home of Christina Ennabe at 2436 Clear Creek Lane. Diamond Bar, CA 91765.
Wednesday, September 27.
10:30 a.m. Eastern Catholic Pastoral Association (ECPA) meeting at Holy Cross Church.
Thursday, September 28.
7:00 p.m. Choir practice for the Melkite Eastern Catholic community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. Parish center. Room 6. Second and fourth Thursdays of each month.
Saturday, September 30.
VOLUNTEER EVENT. Saturday, September 30: Family Day: St. John Maron Maronite Catholic Church. St. John’s Needs volunteers from 2 PM – 5 PM. The event starts at 10:00 AM and ends at 10:00 PM. https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/1990568/false#/invitation
5:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy in Arabic.
Sunday, October 1. Second Sunday After the Holy Cross.
Respect Life Sunday. For further information visit: usccb.org/about/pro-life-activities/respect-life-program
On the first Sunday of each month you may use your building fund envelope (or a specially marked envelope) and deposit it in the regular collection. Thank you for your continued generosity as we move closer to our parish goal of a new hall and church building.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy in English.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
12:15-1:30 p.m. Young Adults Group for ages 21-35.
Saturday, October 7.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, October 8. Third Sunday After the Holy Cross.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
100 Year Anniversary of the Apparitions of Our Lady at Fatima.
5:45 p.m. Music practice in the hall.
6:30 p.m. Divine Liturgy. The Melkite Eastern Catholic Community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691.
Thursday, October 12.
7:00 p.m. Choir practice for the Melkite Eastern Catholic community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. Parish center. Room 6. Second and fourth Thursdays of each month.
Saturday, October 14.
11:00 a.m. Rosary and spiritual reflections to celebrate the 100 Year Anniversary of the Apparitions of Our Lady at Fatima. Followed by refreshments in the hall.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, October 15. Fathers of the Second Council of Nicea.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12. Second Council of Nicaea. Imagery and Spirituality – Icons: “Windows to Heaven”.
2:00 p.m. Baptism of Cosette Sabat Corbett, daughter of Timothy and Latifeh (Semaan) Corbett.
Saturday, October 21.
9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Apparitions of Our Lady with Fr. George Reynolds and Deacon Ron Butler. St. Juliana Falconieri Church 1316 N. Acacia Ave, Fuller Ton, CA 92831. For More Info. Contact Donna 909-772-5233; Any Other Questions — Call Rosalie 949-443-4079. Healing Mass. $20 Registration includes Gourmet Luncheon; $25 after Oct 18th; On-site registration available. Lunch Guaranteed with Registration Received by October 18 Or Call 949-443-4079 if you plan to attend for lunch count. A reservation form must be completed for each person attending, however, you may submit a single payment for all registrations. Please respond early as space fills quickly. Make checks payable to: The Servants of the Sacred Heart of JMJ. Mail to: The Servants of the Sacred Heart of JMJ, 1002 Harthorn Lane, Fillmore, CA 93015.
4:30 p.m. Confession at Holy Cross Church.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer) at Holy Cross Church.
5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. All Saints Days Party for all the children, youth, and their families.
Sunday, October 22. Sixth Sunday After the Holy Cross.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
6:00 p.m. Annual Alex Odeh Memorial Banquet, with Special Guest Speaker Amer Zahr. Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort. For more information, please contact ADC at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (714) 352-0506. Orange County Chapter of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee. Over Three decades of Advocacy and Achievement.
Thursday, October 26.
7:00 p.m. Choir practice for the Melkite Eastern Catholic community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. Parish center. Room 6. Second and fourth Thursdays of each month.
Saturday, October 28.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, October 29. Seventh Sunday After the Holy Cross.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Prepare meal in the Holy Cross hall kitchen for Isaiah House Catholic Worker’s Women’s shelter.
4:30 p.m. Carpool to Isaiah House (316 South Cypress Avenue, Santa Ana. http://occatholicworker.org).
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Set up, serve meals, visit with the women, and clean up.
Saturday, November 4.
An unforgettable and fun-filled day for the youth at Six Flags Magic Mountain (Valencia) followed by a Catholic Youth Rally organized by Life Teen.
God’s Glory is Thrilling! Life has its ups and downs and so do roller coasters! Inspiration LA is the perfect backdrop for fun times and meaningful conversations as the summer winds down. After a long day of exciting rides, teens come to experience the thrill of a life in Christ through Mass, inspirational speakers, Eucharistic adoration, music, and community.
God’s Glory is Transforming! For over 10 years Life Teen Inspiration has brought together thousands of Catholic teens for an unforgettable Saturday that proves that faith and fun fit together. Speakers and musicians include Steve Allgeyer, Mark Hart, Bishop Buckon, Fr. Tim Grumbach, Andrew Laubacher, and more. For further information visit the Life Teen website: http://lifeteen.com/events/life-teen-inspiration-la/
5:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy in Arabic at Holy Cross Church.
Sunday, November 5.
On the first Sunday of each month you may use your building fund envelope (or a specially marked envelope) and deposit it in the regular collection. Thank you for your continued generosity as we move closer to our parish goal of a new hall and church building.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy in English.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Holy Cross Family Day. Spiritual activities and lunch for all the children, youth, young adults, and families.
Wednesday, November 8.
7:00-8:30 a.m. Placentia Community Prayer Breakfast. Hosted by Placentia’s Round Table Women’s Club & Placentia Rotary. 901 North Bradford Avenue. Placentia, CA 92870. (www.placentiawomensclub.org) (www.placentiachamber.com) For information & reservations please contact: Karen Mangold (714) 993-2267 or Carol Kennedy This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Thursday, November 9.
7:00 p.m. Choir practice for the Melkite Eastern Catholic community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. Parish center. Room 6. Second and fourth Thursdays of each month.
Saturday, November 11.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, November 12.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
5:45 p.m. Music practice in the hall.
6:30 p.m. Divine Liturgy. The Melkite Eastern Catholic Community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691.
Saturday, November 18.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, November 19.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
12:15 p.m. Thanksgiving Day Luncheon organized by the youth.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
Tuesday, November 21.
7:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy. Feast of the Entrance of the Mother of God to the Temple.
Thursday, November 23.
11:00 a.m. Thanksgiving Day Divine Liturgy.
Saturday, November 25.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, November 26.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
Saturday, December 2.
5:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy in Arabic.
Sunday, December 3.
On the first Sunday of each month you may use your building fund envelope (or a specially marked envelope) and deposit it in the regular collection. Thank you for your continued generosity as we move closer to our parish goal of a new hall and church building.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy in English.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
12:15-1:30 p.m. Young Adults Group for ages 21-35.
Monday, December 4.
7:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy for the feast of Saint Barbara the Great Martyr, followed by Sleeka/Amh/boiled wheat pot-luck.
We eat boiled wheat on the feast of Saint Barbara because wheat is a sign of the death and resurrection of the martyrs and all Christians, whose death is like a seed that is planted and is then born to new life in Jesus.
Our Lord also told us: “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit” (John 12:24). That is why at funerals and memorials boiled wheat is sometimes distributed. We also eat boiled wheat on the feast of Saint Barbara because she was persecuted and killed for her faith in Jesus but the memory of her martyrdom lives on.
According to tradition, Saint Barbara disguised herself in many different characters to escape the Romans who were persecuting her. While fleeing, Saint Barbara also ran through a freshly planted wheat field, which grew instantly to cover her path. This miracle is recreated symbolically today by planting wheat seeds, chick peas, barley grains, beans, or lentils in little pots on Saint Barbara’s feast day. The seeds germinate and grow up to around 6 inches in time for Christmas. The shoots are then used to decorate the nativity scene and placed below the Christmas tree. Another tradition also mentions that when she was captured, only wheat was available for her to eat.
Saturday, December 9.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, December 10.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
5:45 p.m. Music practice in the hall.
6:30 p.m. Divine Liturgy. The Melkite Eastern Catholic Community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691.
Thursday, December 14.
7:00 p.m. Choir practice for the Melkite Eastern Catholic community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. Parish center. Room 6. Second and fourth Thursdays of each month.
Saturday, December 16.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, December 17.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
12:15 p.m. Chirstmas Play presented by the Sunday School Children.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Eastern Christian Formation/Sunday School for children in kindergarten to grade 8.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
Saturday, December 23.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, December 24. Sunday Before the Nativity of our Lord.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
Monday, December 25. Christmas Day.
Nativity of our Lord Observed Holiday. Office closed today.
Solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord (Christmas).
11:00 a.m. Christmas Day Divine Liturgy. Christ is Born. Glorify Him.
Saturday, December 30.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
Sunday, December 31.
9:30 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
10:30 a.m. Choir practice.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Prepare meal in the Holy Cross hall kitchen for Isaiah House Catholic Worker’s Women’s shelter.
4:30 p.m. Carpool to Isaiah House (316 South Cypress Avenue, Santa Ana. http://occatholicworker.org).
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Set up, serve meals, visit with the women, and clean up.
Monday, January 1, 2018.
11:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy. Saint Basil the Great. Circumcision of our Lord.
Readings for Sunday, September 17, 2017.
Epistle: Galatians 2:16-31.
PROKIMENON (Tone 4)
How great are your works, O Lord! In wisdom you have wrought them all.
Stichon: Bless the Lord. O my soul! You are very great indeed, O Lord my God!
Reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Galatians.
Brethren, we know man is not justified by the works of the Law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. Hence we also believe in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ, and not by the works of the Law, because by the works of the Law no man will be justified. But if, while we are seeking to be justified in Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore the minister of sin? By no means. For if I rebuild the things I destroyed, I make myself a sinner. For through the Law I have died to the Law that I may live for God. With Christ I am nailed to the cross. It is now no longer I who live, but Christ is living in me. And the life I now live in the flesh, I live within the faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself up for me.
ALLELUIA (Tone 4)
String your bow, go forth, reign for the sake of truth, meekness and righteousness, and your right hand shall lead you wonderfully.
Stichon: You loved righteousness and hated iniquity: therefore God, your God, anointed you with the oil of joy above your companions.
Gospel: Mark 8:43-9:1
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost.
The Holy Gospel According To St. Mark The Evangelist.
The Lord said, “If anyone wishes to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For anyone who would save his life will lose it; but anyone who loses his life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News will save it. For what does it profit a man, if he gains the whole world, but suffers the loss of his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange 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 with the holy angels in the glory of his Father.” And he said to them, “Amen I say to you, there are some of those standing here who will not taste death, till they have seen the kingdom of God coming in power.”
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Holy Cross Melkite Catholic Church.
451 West Madison Avenue, Placentia, CA 92870-4537
Telephone: (714) 985-1710.
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Parish Web site: HolyCrossMelkite.org
Facebook Page: Facebook.com/HolyCrossMelkite
YouTube Page: Youtube.com/HolyCrossMelkite
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HCMelkite
Pastor: Father François Beyrouti.
Electronic mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Cellular phone: (714) 914-1710
Pastoral associate: Deacon Elias Kashou.
Office manager: Tony Helo.
Administrative assistant: Rosemarie Nasr.
Parish Hall Rentals: Hala Nakhoul (714) 920-6180.
Choir director: Reader Saad Tashman.
Sunday School / Eastern Christian Formation Program: Every Sunday after the Divine Liturgy from September-May. Pre-School to Grade 8.
Our Lady’s Society: Iman Lutfi (714) 595-7999.
LITURGICAL SCHEDULE
SATURDAY: 4:30 p.m. Confession. 5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).
SUNDAY: 9:45 p.m. Orthros (Morning prayer). 11:00 a.m. The Divine Liturgy.
ARABIC DIVINE LITURGY: 5:00 p.m. Saturday before the first Sunday of the month. In 2017: September 30, November 4, December 2.
ENGLISH DIVINE LITURGY: 11:00 a.m. First Sunday of the month. In 2017: October 1, November 5, December 3.
HOLY DAYS AND WEEKDAYS: Please check the bulletin.
THE HOLY MYSTERIES
MYSTERIES OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION: The three Mysteries of Baptism, Chrismation and Holy Eucharist are always celebrated together in one ceremony. One month notice is required and one baptismal preparation meeting is required with the priest.
MYSTERY OF HOLY CROWNING: Six month notice, an initial meeting with the priest, marriage preparation sessions, and a wedding license are required. You must be an active member of the parish.
MYSTERY OF HOLY CONFESSION: Saturday at 4:30 p.m.
MYSTERY OF HOLY ANOINTING: Available for anyone who is ill.
PLEASE NOTE: There is no charge for the celebration of the Sacramental Mysteries, however, it is appropriate to offer a gift of thanksgiving. Therefore the Parish Advisory Council suggests an offering of $200 for Baptisms; $500 for Weddings; $300 for Funerals; and $100 for a Memorial Service.
HALL RENTAL POLICY.
MERCY-MEAL ON THE DAY OF THE FUNERAL, MERCY-MEAL FOR THE 40th DAY OR OTHER MEMORIALS: $200.00 for registered parishioners of Holy Cross Church who regularly use donation envelopes.
A PARTY WITH MUSIC, FOOD, AND DRINKS (up to 5 hours of use): $400.00 for parishioners + $100 insurance payable to the diocese. $500.00 for non-parishioners + $100 insurance payable to the diocese.
DAMAGE/CLEANING DEPOSIT: $200.00. Refundable if the hall is left in the condition it was given to you.
SECURITY FEE: $125 charge will be added to cover security for 5 hours.
A MEETING (Use of the chairs and tables only. No use of the kitchen, oven, or refrigerator). $75 / hour for parishioners. $100 for non-parishioners.
ADDITIONAL CHARGE FOR A RENTAL OVER 5 HOURS: $100 / hour.
