Holy Cross Melkite Catholic Church Bulletin. Sunday, September 23, 2018.
1st Sunday After the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. The Miraculous Catch.

September 23. Conception by Elizabeth of the honorable and glorious Prophet, the forerunner John the Baptist.
John the Baptist holds an important place in the mystery of our salvation. He is the Forerunner of the Saviour; he came with the spirit and zeal of the Prophet Elias to designate the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world, and to prepare hearts so that they could receive the light of the Son of God through the baptism of penance. His conception in his mother's womb is then the dawn of our salvation.

Our Eastern Christian Formation (Sunday School) program for all children Kindergarten to grade 8 has restarted on September 9, 2018. We need teachers for 2nd and 4th grade and substitutes for our program! It is up to our community to pull together and help support such a beautiful program. Please contact the office if you are interested in teaching our wonderful children or if you have children in kindergarten to grades 8. It is essential that we enroll our children in Sunday School because this is one of the greatest ways to communicate our faith and build a living relationship with God. The registration form is available at: Holycrossmelkite.org/ministries/ecf. If you have questions call: (714) 985-1710.

December 31, 2018. Holy Cross Church’s New Year’s Eve Party at The Grand Banquet Hall (300 S. Flower Street, Orange, CA 92868). There will be great mazza, a Middle Eastern dinner, a variety of music, dancing, midnight champagne, an open bar, and so much more. Come celebrate the year with your Holy Cross Church family and friends. Tickets are $100 per adults (limited tickets available), and $40 for kids. Tickets can be purchased from the Church Office and from Nadia Saikali.

Installation began on our Church’s new air-condition unit from September 4-7, 2018. The setup is complete and the wooden framing for the 50x5 soffit will begin on September 21.

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 October 14, 2018, at Saint Kilian’s. 26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691 (off Marguerite Parkway).
2018 dates: Sunday, November 11, and Sunday, December 9.
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).

Choir practice. “Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God” (Colossians 3:16). Please join our choir practices to review the regular hymns of the Divine Liturgy and learn new ones. Everyone is welcome.
At Holy Cross Melkite Catholic Church for the Sunday choir. Every Thursday at 7:00-8:30 p.m. and every Sunday at 9:55 a.m.-10:45 a.m.
For the Melkite Eastern Catholic community at Saint Kilian’s Roman Catholic Church (26872 Estanciero Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92691). 7:00 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Upcoming dates: September 26 and October 10. Parish center. Room 6.

Holy Cross Youth Ministry Spiritual Meetings take place every Sunday following the Divine Liturgy for all those in grades 9-12.

Holy Cross College Ministry. We are planning social and religious activities to build our College Community at Holy Cross Church. See calendar for event details (holycrossmelkite.org/ministries/college-ministry). Contact: Robert Fragnito at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Mariah Shea at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Upcoming evenings:
Saturday, September 29: 1:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Beach Day and bonfire at Inspiration Point (3001 Ocean Blvd, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625). All Ministries (Youth, College, and Young Adults ministries).
Thursday, October 4: 7:30 p.m. First Official College Ministry Spiritual Meeting: Discussion on the readings for Sunday of the Holy Cross.
Sunday, October 7: Kayaking in Long Beach with Young Adults after the Divine Liturgy.
Saturday, October 21: 1:00 p.m. Mt. Rubidoux Hike for all Ministries. 4706 Mount Rubidoux Drive. Riverside, CA 92501.

Holy Cross Young Adults Group. We are planning social and religious activities to build our Young Adults Community at Holy Cross Church. Feel free to bring your friends and family. Ages 21-35. See calendar for event details (Holycrossmelkite.org/ministries/young-adults). Contact: Tony Helo (562) 371-5466; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Upcoming events:
Saturday, September 29: 1:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Beach Day and bonfire at Inspiration Point (3001 Ocean Blvd, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625). All Ministries (Youth, College, and Young Adults ministries).
Sunday, October 7: 12:15 p.m. kayaking after church we will meet at: 5411 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803. (Open to the College Ministry).
Saturday, October 21: 1:00 p.m. Mt. Rubidoux Hike for all Ministries. 4706 Mount Rubidoux Drive. Riverside, CA 92501.

Isaiah House Women’s Shelter. Holy Cross Church prepares and serves a meal for the women at Isaiah House (316 South Cypress Avenue, Santa Ana) every month that has a 5th Sunday. Volunteer to help prepare, serve, and enjoy a meal with those in need. Contact the office on how to get involved. Time: 3:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. 2018 dates: September 30, and December 30. 2019 dates: March 31, June 30, September 29, and December 29.

Saint Anne’s Melkite Catholic Cathedral Annual Festival. September 21-23, 2018. Free admission. Live entertainment, famous star singers, dancing, DJ, games, silent auction, raffles, and great Mediterranean food. Come support our Melkite Cathedral: Located (11211 Moorpark St. N. Hollywood CA 91602).

St. Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral Annual Festival. Saturday, October 6-7, 2018. Admission is $3. For raffle ticket purchase, please call (909) 263-4175. There will be delicious Mediterranean foods and desserts, live entertainment, great games for kids, booths for shopping, and an exciting performance by St. Nicholas' Kashaf! For more information, please call the cathedral at (213) 382-6269 or visit lamedfest.org. 2300 West Third Street, Los Angeles, CA 90057.

Women’s Silent Retreat is Sold Out. However, space is available for Saturday only, November 10. If you wish to join us at beautiful Sacred Heart Retreat House in Alhambra, please call Melinda Guinaldo at 714-403-8455.

If anyone is looking for a babysitter or daycare please call Janan G. at (714) 592-6358. Speaks Arabic and English.

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.

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.

Your Sunday donation envelopes are mailed to you every two months. These envelopes are dated with your envelope number on the back. Please contact the office if you are not registered or did not receive your envelopes. Thank you.

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. To read past homilies visit: holycrossmelkite.org/parish/homilies

Do you want to be inspired and learn more about your Catholic Faith? Listen to Relevant, a Catholic Radio station (formerly Immaculate Heart Catholic Radio) on 930 am. For further information visit their website or call 1-888-887-7120.

Thank you for your ongoing generous donations:
-Wednesday, August 22 building fund deposit: $1,384.
-Sunday, August 26 collection: $1,710 in 33 envelopes (average of $52 per envelope) + $354 cash + $73 candles = $2,137.
-Saturday, September 1 collection: $215 in 6 envelopes (average of $36 per envelope) + $42 cash = $257
-Sunday, September 2 collection: $1,387 in 24 envelopes (average of $58 per envelope) + $130 cash + $123 candles = $1,640.
-Wednesday, September 5 building fund deposit: $2,290.
-Sunday, September 9 collection: $2,087 in 44 envelopes (average of $47 per envelope) + $395 cash + $220 Candles = $2,642.
-Wednesday, September 12 building fund deposit: $1,811.
-Friday, September 14 collection: $429 in 7 envelopes (average of $61 per envelope) + $283 cash = $712.
-Sunday, September 16 collection: $2,700 in 35 envelopes (average of $77 per envelope) + $387 cash + $211 candles = $3,298.
-Sunday, September 16 Mission Viejo collection: $525 in 9 envelopes (average of $58 per envelope) + $37 cash = $562.
-Wednesday, September 19 building fund deposit: $3,225.

Total deposits in the past four months: June: $18,839, July: $25,177. August: $17,171, September: $16,437.

Sample Holy Cross Church Expenses:
$76.17 paid on August 14, 2018 for Sparkletts Water Services.
$169.20 paid on August 21, 2018 for Republic Trash Services.
$2,605.27 paid on August 30, 2018 for Golden State Water.
$380.87 paid on September 5, 2018 for Cleaning Company.
$200.00 paid on September 5, 2018 for Gardening Services.
$156.30 paid on September 17, 2018 for Photocopier Printing.
$42.14 paid on September 18, 2018 for Sparkletts Water Services.

Hymns: (See our Church’s website for Audio Recordings: holycrossmelkite.org/Melkite-hymns)
Troparion of the Resurrection (Tone 1). After the stone was sealed by the Jews and the while the soldiers were watching Your spotless body, You rose, O Savior, on the third day, bestowing life to the world. Therefore the heavenly powers cried out to You, O Giver of life: “Glory to Your resurrection, O Christ! Glory to Your kingdom! Glory to Your economy, O You Who alone are the lover of mankind!”
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.
Kondakion of the Mother of God (Tone 2). O never failing Protectress of Christians and their ever present intercessor before the Creator, despise not the petitions of us sinners, but in your goodness extend your help to us who call upon you with confidence. Hasten, O Mother of God, to intercede for us, for you have always protected those who honor you.

Epistle: Galatians 4:22-27. Full reading below. If you would like to read the Epistle please contact the office.
Gospel: Luke 5:1-11. Full reading below.

Today’s Divine Liturgy is celebrated for the repose of the souls of:
Sayeda Haddad (September 17, 2018), Minerva Mazzawi (September 11, 2018), Camille Sarrouf, Sr. (September 5 , 2018), Wadad Sawaya (September 1, 2018), Nadia Sader Haddad (August 28, 2018), William Tomp (August 25, 2018), Mariam Butros Dawra (August 21, 2018), Nassim Samawi (August 15, 2018).
the health, safety, and salvation of:
Eman Andrawos, Jimmy Bahnan, Joseph Gerard Boudreau, Brother Gabriel, Patrick Flynn, Sayeda Haddad, George & Majda Kassaseya, Archdeacon John De Meis, Deacon Magdi Negm, Jamal Nesheiwat, Fr. Jim Ries, Marie Semaan, Florence Shaib.
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:
“For it is written, "Rejoice, O barren one who does not bear; break forth and shout, you who are not in travail; for the children of the desolate one are many more than the children of her that is married” (Galatians 4:27).

“Jesus said to Simon, ‘Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch’ ” (Luke 5:4).

Calendar:
Thursday, September 20.
7:00 p.m. Be my witness leadership meeting.
7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Choir Practice at Holy Cross Church.

Friday, September 21-Sunday, September 23, 2018. Saint Anne Melkite Catholic Cathedral Festival. 11211 Moorpark St, North Hollywood, CA 91602.

Saturday, September 22.
No Confession today.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).

Sunday, September 23.
9:45 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
9:55 a.m.-10:45 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. Go to Saint Anne’s festival after the Divine Liturgy at Holy Cross Church.

Wednesday, September 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 Wednesday of each month.

Thursday, September 27.
7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Choir Practice at Holy Cross Church.

Saturday, September 29.
1:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Beach Day and bonfire at Inspiration Point (3001 Ocean Blvd, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625). All Ministries (Youth, College, and Young Adults ministries).
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).

Sunday, September 30.
9:45 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
9:55 a.m.-10:45 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. Guest Speaker David Paddison. Permission slip deadline for November 3 Lifeteen Inspiration event at Six Flags.

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.

Thursday, October 4.
7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Choir Practice at Holy Cross Church.
7:30 p.m. First Official College Ministry Spiritual Meeting: Discussion on the readings for the Sunday of the Holy Cross.

Saturday, October 6.
9:30 a.m. Be My Witness leadership team meeting. “Mission Matters”.
5:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy in Arabic.

Sunday, October 7.
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.
9:45 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
9:55 a.m.-10:45 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. Web-meeting with the youth of Saint John of the Desert Melkite Catholic Church, Phoenix, Arizona.
12:15 p.m. Young Adults Group for ages 21-35. Kayaking. (Open to the College Ministry).
12:15 p.m. College Ministry: Kayaking in Long Beach with Young Adults after the Divine Liturgy.

Wednesday, October 10.
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 Wednesday of each month.

Thursday, October 11.
7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Choir Practice at Holy Cross Church.

Saturday, October 13.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).

Sunday, October 14.
9:45 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
9:55 a.m.-10:45 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.

Wednesday, October 17.
7:30 p.m. College Ministry: Discussion meeting.

Thursday, October 18.
7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Choir Practice at Holy Cross Church.

Friday, October 19.
7:00 p.m. Saints Day Party for Youth Group and College Ministry.

Saturday, October 20.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).

Sunday, October 21.
9:45 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
9:55 a.m.-10:45 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.
1:00 p.m. Mt. Rubidoux Hike for all Ministries.
1:30 p.m. Theosis Meeting in Conference Room. Adult members of 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. Anyone seeking more information can contact - Mark Bergeron at (714) 307-2196.

Monday, October 22.
8:00 p.m. Young Adults Group for ages 21-35. Escape Room.

Wednesday, October 24.
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 Wednesday of each month.

Thursday, October 25.
7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Choir Practice at Holy Cross Church.

Saturday, October 27.
9:30 a.m. Be My Witness leadership team meeting. “Mission Matters”.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer). (Vespers, spiritual talk, and potluck dinner for all ministries)

Sunday, October 28.
9:45 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
9:55 a.m.-10:45 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.

Thursday, November 1.
7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Choir Practice at Holy Cross Church.
7:30 p.m. College Ministry meeting: The Saints.

Saturday, November 3.
9:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. LifeTeen Inspiration Six Flags Magic Mountain.
5:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy in Arabic.

Sunday, November 4.
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.
9:45 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
9:55 a.m.-10:45 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. Sunday School lunch with parents and teachers.
12:15 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Youth Ministry spiritual discussion for all in grades 9-12.
12:15 p.m. Young Adults Group for ages 21-35. The Blind Rabbit (speakeasy) at the Anaheim Packing District. RSVP required. Dress Code required.

Thursday, November 8.
7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Choir Practice at Holy Cross Church.

Saturday, November 10.
9:30 a.m. Be My Witness leadership team meeting.
4:30 p.m. Confession.
5:00 p.m. Vespers (Evening prayer).

Sunday, November 11.
9:45 a.m. Orthros (Morning prayer).
9:55 a.m.-10:45 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. Apologetics: The Theotokos – Robert Fragnito.

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.

Wednesday, November 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 Wednesday of each month.

7:30 p.m. College Ministry discussion meeting.

Thursday, November 15.
7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Choir Practice at Holy Cross Church.
7:00 p.m. Young Adults Group: Potluck Holiday Party in the Hall.

Readings for Sunday, September 23, 2018.
Epistle: Galatians 4:22-27.
Prokimenon (Tone 4)
Awesome in his saints is God, the God of Israel.
Stichon: In the churches, bless God, the Lord out of Israel’s wellsprings.

A Reading from the Epistle of St. Paul to the Galatians:
Brethren, Abraham had two sons, the one by a slave-girl and the other by a free woman (Cf. Gn. 16:15; 21:2). And the son of the slave-girl was born according to the flesh, but the son of the free woman, in virtue of the promise. This is said by way of allegory. For these are the two covenants, one indeed from Mount Sinai, bringing forth children that were to be in bondage: this is Agar. For Sinai is a mountain in Arabia, which corresponds to the present Jerusalem, and is in slavery with her children. But that Jerusalem which is above is free, which is our mother. For it is written, Rejoice, you barren woman who do not bear; break forth and cry, you who do not travail; for many are the children of the desolate, more than of the one who has a husband (Is. 54: 1)

ALLELUIA (Tone 4)
The just cried out, and the Lord heard them, and he delivered them form all their trials.
Stichon: Many are the trials of the just, but out of them all, the Lord will save them.

Luke 5:1-11
The Holy Gospel According To St. Luke the Evangelist.
At that time Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret. And he saw two boats moored by the lake, but the fishermen had left them and were washing their nets. And getting into one of the boats, the one that was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And sitting down, he began to teach the crowds from the boat. But when he had stopped speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep, and lower your nets for a catch.” And Simon answered and said to him, “Master, the whole night through we have toiled and have taken nothing; but at your word I will lower the net.” And when they had done so, they caught a great number of fishes, but their net was breaking. And they called to their comrades in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw this, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord,” For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish they had made; and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you shall catch men.” And when they had brought their boats to land, they left all and followed him.

Bulletin Advertisers:
Samba Travel. Discounted Air Fares to All Destinations. For Reservations Call: Akl Kozhaya (562) 331-1174.

Melinda Guinaldo, Realtor. Century 21 Discovery. Seniors Real Estate Specialist. Vintage Homes Specialist. Mobile: (714) 403-8455.

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 Directors: Reader Saad Tashman and Lupe Ojeda.
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 2018: October 6, November 3, December 1.

ENGLISH DIVINE LITURGY: 11:00 a.m. First Sunday of the month. In 2018: October 7, November 4, December 2.

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: $150 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.

Sunday, September 2, 2018. "What's Up." Homily by Father François Beyrouti.

15th Sunday After Pentecost
Epistle 2 Cor 4:6-15 (15th Sun. after Pentecost)
A Reading from the Second Epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians
Brethren, God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, has shone in our hearts, to give enlightenment concerning the knowledge of God's glory, shining in Christ Jesus' face. But we carry this treasure in vessels of clay, to show that its superabundant power is God's, and not ours. In all things we suffer tribulation but we are not distressed, we are sorely pressed but we are not destitute, we endure persecution but we are not forsaken, we are cast down but we do not perish: always carrying around in our body the dying of Jesus, so that the life also of Jesus may be made manifest in our bodily frame. For we, the living, are constantly being handed over to death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus may be made manifest in our mortal flesh. Thus death is at work in us, but life in you. But since we have the same spirit of faith, as shown in that which is written, I believed, and so I spoke, (Ps. 115:1) we also believed, wherefore we also speak. For we know that the One Who raised up the Lord Jesus will raise us up also together with Jesus, and will place us with you. For all things are for your sakes, so that the grace that abounds through the many may cause thanksgiving to abound for God's glory.

Gospel: 15th Sunday of Pentecost, Matthew 22: 35-46 (The Greatest Commandment)
The Holy Gospel According to St. Matthew The Evangelist
At that time one of the doctors of the Law, putting Jesus to the test, asked him, “Master, which is the great commandment in the Law?” Jesus said to him, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart, and with thy whole soul, and with thy whole mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. And the second is like it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.” Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus questioned them, saying, “What do you think of the Christ? Whose son is he?” They said to him, “David’s.” He said to them, “How then does David in the Spirit call him Lord, saying, ‘The Lord said to my Lord: Sit thou at my right hand till I make thy enemies thy footstool?’ If David, therefore, calls him Lord, how is he his son?” And no one could answer him a word; neither did anyone dare from that day forth to ask him any more questions.

Homily
Good morning everyone or as some people say “What’s up?”
There are different ways of saying “What’s up?” and the meaning changes depending on how you say it. For example, “It’s good to see you. How are you doing?” is “What’s up?” But “What do you want?” is “What’s up?”

When I go into a store, unfortunately I most often get the rolled eyed “What’s up?” Which means “It’s not really that good to see you, unfortunately you probably have a question or want something, I am even more unfortunate to have to work at this place, and since you’re here, I have to deal with you, so “What’s up?”

Unlike the shaky head “What’s up?” attitude that most people may give us, God on the other hand is always asking us “What’s up?” and always means “It’s so good to see you. How are you doing?” God’s “what’s up?” is not a formality. God really wants to know “what’s up in our lives.”

Some people think God is too busy for us and is not really interested in what happens to us during the week. Sunday is so important because it is the first day of creation that begins our week with God and it is also the last day of the week where we gather to give thanks for our past week. This reminds us that God is with us every day. God is always asking us “What’s up?” because He wants to know what we’re doing, but more important, how we are doing.

Prayer is an honest conversation with God. It is important to have this daily conversation because we often think God is far away, whereas, He’s always right there. Regardless of how young or old we are, we easily develop a negative view of ourselves, of others, and God, that we can correct by sitting in silence and listening to what God wants to tell us.

One of my favorite recent songs is called “You Say” by Lauren Daigle. A section of the song goes like this:
“You say I am loved when I can't feel a thing
You say I am strong when I think I am weak
And You say I am held when I am falling short
And when I don't belong, oh You say that I am Yours
And I believe, oh I believe
What You say of me

The only thing that matters now is everything You think of me
In You I find my worth, in You I find my identity.”

We always want to live with the pure image that God has of us rather than carrying the burden of what others or we believe of ourselves. It is specifically when we have hardships in life that we need to turn to God.

Today’s letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians reminds us that when we recognize God is with us and for us the trials are manageable. Saint Paul says: “We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; [9] persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; [10] always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies” (2 Corinthians 4:8-10).

How is this possible? When God says “what’s up?” we can be fully honest with Him in prayer:
“You say I am loved when I can't feel a thing
You say I am strong when I think I am weak.”

“The only thing that matters now is everything You think of me
In You I find my worth, in You I find my identity.”

This “What’s up?” that God asks is not just meant for us to feel good about ourselves, but is actually the starting point of how we need to see others. If we have a bad self-worth, then our view of others is cloudy and if we hate ourselves, how can we love God who created us?

That is why in today’s Gospel Jesus summarizes the Bible’s when he says: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. [38] This is the great and first commandment. [39] And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. [40] On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets” (Matthew 22:37-40).

When God says “What’s up?” He wants to know how we’re doing and what we’re doing, He also wants to know whether we care about how others are doing. Therefore, prayer also encourages us to ask those around us “What’s up?” in a genuine way. God corrects us when we develop an unhealthy view of ourselves and He calls us to mirror this in our relationship with others.

What negative view of themselves or of life do people you know have? Is there a way for you to show them how much you care and how much God loves them?

We discover the full joy and meaning of life when we hear God’s loving “What’s up?” every day and when we are able to extend a loving “What’s up?” to those who need to know we care.

Father François Beyrouti
Holy Cross Melkite Catholic Church
451 West Madison Avenue
Placentia, CA 92870-4537
Office: (714) 985-1710
My cell: (714) 914-1710
HolyCrossMelkite.org
Sign-up for our homily and bulletin e-mail list: HolyCrossMelkite.org/parish/homilies
YouTube.com/HolyCrossMelkite
YouTube.com/MelkiteTV
Facebook.com/HolyCrossMelkite
Twitter.com/HCMelkite

Holy Cross Church’s New App. Good news, Holy Cross Church now has its own app on android and apple devices. Simply search for the myParish app on your phone’s app store or click one of the buttons below and once you have the app downloaded search for Holy Cross Melkite Church. Alternatively you could text “App” to 88202 to download our parish app. This app is full of useful features from messages, donations, calendar information, and so much more. If you have any questions please call the church office at (714) 985-1710.