1200 ROBERT E. LEE BOULEVARD – NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA 70122

FIRST GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH IN NORTH AND SOUTH AMERICA

The Ladder of Divine Ascent icon depicted from the writing of the same name by St. John Climacus—4th Sunday of Lent.

Volume 6, Issue 4 April 2016

BE SERIOUS ABOUT LENT

By Father George Wilson

The book Great Lent: Journey to Pascha by Father Alexander Schmemann has become an Orthodox classic in preparing the faithful for the most central Feast of our Church: Holy Pascha. Chapter Five is entitled: “Lent in Our Life,” and the first section of this chapter is sub-titled: “Taking It Seriously…” Father Alexander recognizes that many of our Orthodox faithful do not experience the unique and inspirational repentant psalms, prayers, and hymns that pervade the liturgical services during this season. At best, the average parishioner will attend Sunday services but rarely if ever attend any of the Lenten services.

The whole basis for and thematic importance of Great Lent stands in opposition to everything our world and society have succeeded in teaching us. The world will have us focus on our material needs and wants and to stockpile them. We hear from our Roman Catholic friends that they are choosing to “give up” something important for Lent. As Orthodox we ought not choose that which we want to give up and that which we agree to take on during Lent. We are encouraged to take on a spirit of repentance, we are encouraged to enter into meditation on our Christian Scripture, and we are encouraged to be generous in our charitable giving.

In teaching about fasting, I believe the Orthodox message on fasting is clear. If we are healthy and not on restricted diets,

or on prescribed medicines that require us to eat a balanced diet, we can come up with no appropriate reason why we are not fasting according to the teachings of our Faith. But, please do not reduce our preparation for Pascha to simply eating the proper foods! Continued on next page

THE FLAME HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CATHEDRAL

MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

As we look at certain types of foods and fasting, we become aware of that which we take into our bodies. But, so many of the Fathers of the Church warn us to take control over that which comes out of our mouths as well. In Psalm 141:3 we pray: “Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” We can inflict great pain and suffering by the things that we say to people and by the things we say about people! The services during this season of Great Lent suggest this very concept. The primary theme for Great Lent is Repentance, which means “to change.” A definition of the word “repent” in the dictionary says: “to feel such sorrow for sin or fault as to be disposed to change one's life for the better.” With Christ in our lives, we can change for the better.

Father Alexander said: “To take Lent seriously means that we will consider it first of all on the deepest possible level - as a spiritual challenge, which requires a response, a decision, a plan, a continuous effort.” The Church encourages us to attend the weekday services. The various themes of the Sundays before and during Lent provide the faithful Orthodox Christian with the basic teachings on how we might redirect our minds from the temptations of the world and society to a life focused on our Lord and Savior Christ and growing in His likeness.

Our Orthodox Faith should not be described as a religion, but we should understand it as a way of life. It is a way of life that nurtures a relationship with Jesus Christ as our Lord God and Savior. Great Lent: Journey to Pascha prepares us for the greater journey to Salvation. This is the ideal destination for every faithful Christian and is only possible through Jesus Christ.

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Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral 1200 Robert E. Lee Boulevard

New Orleans, Louisiana 70122

504.282.0259 – Fax 504.283.5586

holytrinitycathedral.org

Liturgical Services

Sundays – Orthros 9:00 am

Divine Liturgy 10:00 am

Weekdays (when scheduled) 9:00 am

Clergy

Reverend Father George Wilson

priest@holytrinitycathedral.org

504-282-0259

Chanter: Demetrios Pappas

Choir Director: Alex Tiliakos

2016 PARISH COUNCIL

President: Barbara Stavis Wolf

1st Vice President: Nicholas S. Bouzon

2nd Vice President: W. Paul Andersson

Treasurer: Eleftherios Toras

Secretary: Maria Anastasiou

Members: Angela Fyssas-Lear; Argeta Labatut;

Nick Moustoukas, MD; Panagiotis Patselikos;

Steven E. Psarellis; and Ginny Zissis

The Flame: Editor, Victoria Catsulis

EDUCATION

Greek School: Instructor, Fay Kalergi

Hymnology: Instructor, Viki Moustoukas

Sunday School

Following Holy Communion

Director: Patrick Latour

ORGANIZATIONS

Acolytes and Readers

Coordinator: Vladimir Ammons

AHEPA: President, Lance von Uhde, III

Daughters of Penelope

President: Sandy Bouzon

Education, Culture, and Youth Ministries

Chairman: Steven E. Psarellis

GOYA

Coordinator: Presvytera Harriet Wilson

President: Sophia Marathonitis

Advisors: Lenna Korominas, Despina

Patselikos, Brian Stokes, Maria Stokes,

Hellenic Dancers

Coordinators, Mathoula Bilalis and

Maria Patselikos

Holy Trinity Soccer

Director: Ana Commagere

HOPE/JOY (age 11 and under)

Coordinator: Vicki Mantikos McCallef

Advisors: Angeliki Frezoulis,

Sena Grass, Donna Venturatos

Philoptochos: President, Connie Tiliakos

PTA: President, Evagelia Vatakis

Real Estate Committee

Chairperson: Steven E. Psarellis

St. Markella of Chios

President: Maria Anastasiou

Support: Secretary, Victoria Catsulis

Maintenance: Dimitri Vatakis

PARISH REGISTRY Celebrations, Milestones, Comfort, and Support

40-DAYS BLESSING February 28, 2016 John Alexander Zoumberos Son of Sophia (Vassilagoris) and Nicholas Zoumberos

CONDOLENCES Deep sympathy is expressed to Martha and James R. Strain, Jr. on the passing of his mother, Mary P. Strain Dittmer, on March 16, 2016.

MEMORIAL March 13, 2016 Ioannis George Tsatsoulis, 1-Year

TRISAGIA February 26, 2016 Joan Fotiades February 29, 2016 Stephanie Anas Bode

WEDDING March 5, 2016 Melissa Ann Phillips and George Kanellos Koubaro John Kanellos

HH OO LL YY TT RR II NN II TT YY AA RR CC HH II VV EE SS CC OO MM MM II TT TT EE EE NN EE WW SS LL EE TT TT EE RR Archiving the many items in the Holy Trinity collection is challenging, fun, and always full of surprises. Historic photos are a challenge to identify because they were seldom dated. The Archives Committee selected four photos that they can date because of the generous assistance of John Magill, the staff historian of the Historic New Orleans Collection. But, they need your help to identify the individuals and ask that you call Maggie at 504-780-9165, or anyone on the Archives Committee, to assist. The Committee wishes to use the photos in the 150th Anniversary Album.

RIGHT Father

Ferentinos, who served twice during the years of

1911 to 1926, is pictured

with the Epitafion that is framed and

hangs in the “changing

room” of the Narthex.

LEFT This photo has a special framed certificate/plaque on the floor in front of the little girl. It is circa 1911-1916, and the framed item may commemorate service in WWI. If anyone would like to see any of these photos enlarged on the computer screen, please contact a member of the Archives Committee.

Photographs may not be reproduced or displayed without prior written permission from the Holy Trinity Archives Committee.

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LEFT Undated photo donated by Irene Lignos Names below Photo

Ioannis - 16 years old

Antigone - 13 years old

Elenitsa - 9 years old

Kostaki - 3 years old

RIGHT

Photo is circa 1925-1930.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE APRIL 2016

During this time of Great Lent we look forward to spiritual guidance in our Church and the opportunity to become closer to God through prayer, fasting, repentance, and reflection. Congratulations to the PTA for hosting a most memorable Greek Independence Day Event on March 20 and to the outstanding program of the Greek School Teacher, Fay Kalergi, her assistants, and the wonderful Greek School students. I hope that everyone will participate in our important Lenten Retreat on April 2 and then gather together for many of the meaningful services during Lent and Holy Week. Your Parish Council continues to meet and work for the good of the Church. We are available to assist with any questions or concerns. Should you have any issues, please advise me or the Cathedral office so they can be addressed. Best wishes are extended to everyone in our Cathedral family for the blessings of this season and the upcoming joyous celebration of Pascha followed by the beautiful Agape Service and our Annual Pascha Picnic. Please check the Church calendar and Holy Week Services list for all upcoming services and events. Wishing you Καλη Σαρακοστη.

Sincerely, Barbara Stavis Wolf Parish Council President

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SOPHIA MARATHONTIS RECEIVES FULL RIDE TO TULANE

Tulane University recently awarded Sophia Marathonitis the Dean's Honor Scholarship, as well as invited her into its Honors Program. The merit based scholarship provides full tuition for four years. Application requires a creative project for which Sophia provided a video. Just over 1,000 applicants applied, and seventy-five (75) scholarships were awarded. Congratulations to Sophia for this remarkable accomplishment.

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RIGHT—Recent visit to Metropolis of Atlanta to discuss Cathedral Montessori School with His Eminence

Metropolitan Alexios. See letter on next page.

CATHEDRAL MONTESSORI SCHOOL FUNDRAISER

Cathedral Montessori School held its 6th Annual School Auction the afternoon of February 21, 2016, at the House of Blues. Thanks are extended to all who supported the event.

GREEK ORTHODOX COMMUNITY OF NEW ORLEANS

HOLY TRINITY CATHEDRAL

1200 ROBERT E. LEE BOULEVARD – NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA 70122

PHONE (504) 282-0259 Fax (504) 283-5586

REVEREND FATHER GEORGE WILSON

BOARD OF TRUSTEES BARBARA STAVIS WOLF, PRESIDENT NICHOLAS S. BOUZON, 1

ST VICE-PRESIDENT

W. PAUL ANDERSSON, 2ND

VICE-PRESIDENT ELEFTHERIOS TORAS, TREASURER MARIA ANASTASIOU, SECRETARY

MARCH 20, 2016

Dear Members of Holy Trinity Cathedral:

Greetings during this important spiritual time of lent. As has been communicated to the Community, His Eminence Metropolitan Alexios sent a letter to our Community on January 5, 2016 advising that the lease of the Cathedral Montessori School had never been previously submitted by Holy Trinity to the Metropolis for approval as required and that the Metropolis did not receive information of the school being involved with the religious life of the Cathedral. The letter was discussed at the General Assembly Meeting of January 24, 2016. Members of the Community had questions about the issues presented in the letter. As the new Parish Council President, I contacted His Eminence and the Metropolis to request an opportunity to discuss these issues. It is important to recall the words in Mark 9:37, when the Lord said: “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”

I, along with Father George Wilson, Cathedral Montessori School Academic Administrator Dr. Billie Venturatos Andersson, and Parish Council 2nd Vice President Paul Andersson were invited to a meeting with His Eminence in Atlanta on Thursday, March 10, 2016, to discuss the operation, history and lease of our Cathedral Montessori School. His Eminence emphasized the importance of education of our children. His Eminence explained that the Metropolis had never been formally advised by Holy Trinity of the founding and operation of the School, of the curriculum involved, of the supportive General Assembly votes and that the lease had never been submitted for Metropolis approval. A candid discussion and open dialogue followed about Holy Trinity and our Cathedral Montessori School, with a review of the current status and the progress the school has made since the Parish Council and General Assembly voted in 2009 to start the School under the auspices of Holy Trinity.

His Eminence was presented with detailed information about the school that included: the students of the school are 3 - 6 years old; the selection process for School Board members; the Parish Priest and Parish Council President are ex-officio members of the School Board; the Parish Council President appoints members to the School Board; the school pays all of its own generated expenses (salaries, insurance, utilities and building maintenance) and receives no additional funds from the Cathedral; the School schedule includes daily Greek Language Class and weekly chapel in the Cathedral, that Dr. Andersson is a volunteer appointed by Holy Trinity that does not receive compensation for her services to the School, that a lease for $1.00 per year had been executed to acknowledge the School as a separate legal entity operating in one of the Cathedral buildings, and that the school submits $12,000 per year in Stewardship to Holy Trinity. The Metropolis provided details about the Metropolis and Archdiocese requirements for schools. His Eminence was pleased to learn of the activities, curriculum and organization of the school. Questions were posed and information exchanged. Documents were reviewed and recommendations presented.

Appreciation was expressed that His Eminence took time from his busy schedule to meet with us on these issues. Information was provided on requirements of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Uniform Parish Regulations (UPR) and that updated documents that meet those requirements need to be submitted. His Eminence was very generous with his time, and expressed gratitude for our visit. The discussions resulted in a resolution of the issues raised in His Eminence’s January letter.

It was a very positive meeting providing guidance in our continuing mission to work for the good of the Church and provide this important ministry of the Cathedral Montessori School. His Eminence gave his approval for the school to continue to operate in the current building and requested School and Community updated documents be submitted that meet requirements of the UPR. Work is currently taking place to update the documents as required which will then be submitted for approval to the Parish Council, a Special General Assembly and the Metropolis. Parishioners will be updated as this process continues. If there are any questions on this information, please feel free to contact me or Father George. Sincerely,

Barbara Stavis Wolf Parish Council President

THE FIRST GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH IN THE AMERICAS THE ECUMENICAL PATRIARCHATE – ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA – METROPOLIS OF ATLANTA

ANGELA FYSSAS-LEAR NICK MOUSTOUKAS, MD

PANAGIOTIS PATSELIKOS STEVEN E. PSARELLIS

GINNY ZISSIS

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GREEK SCHOOL COMMEMORATES GREEK INDEPENCE DAY WITH FESTIVITIES Greek School Director Fay Kalergi

Each year March 25th is celebrated by Greeks worldwide as the 1821 initiation of the Greek War of Independence. To commemorate this significant historical occasion, the community of Holy Trinity Cathedral gathered on Sunday, March 20, 2016, and presented a program that not only honored Greek history and traditions but also served as a great teaching tool for the younger generations. Drama, poetry, and music were utilized to instruct the Holy Trinity Greek School students about the Greek War of Independence and to convey its significance. Further educational enrichment came from Dr. A.N. Yiannopoulos, whose remarks revealed details pertinent to the event and the era. The program performed by the students consisted of three different skits that communicated important messages. Through their impersonations of Greek heroes and scholars, they learned that freedom is never granted to a nation but instead is gained thanks to sacrifices and strong efforts of many heroes. The main objective of the second skit, in which the lead actors impersonated the preeminent revolutionary leader Theodoros Kolokotronis and a young shepherd, highlighted that the principal weapon of the Greeks in 1821 was their eagerness for freedom. The "Secret School” skit reminded everyone that the Orthodox Church helped Greece preserve its language, religion, and values during the years of occupation. Likewise, the poem read by Katerina Christakis related the magnitude of the catastrophic effects evoked by the oppressors during the years of slavery. Thirty-five youth and adults, including the Hellenic Dancers and Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra member Kate Withrow, worked hard to prepare the program. Interestingly, some of the participants, such as Hadydee-Lucia Enriquez, are linked to the Greek community only because of their love for the Greek culture and language. The Holy Trinity Greek School program commemorating March 25th was successful due to the dedication of its participants and the contributions of its numerous volunteers and supporters. Evagelia Vatakis served as Greek folk dance instructor for students of all ages, while Ana Kanellos, Koula Vennis, and Petros Christakis supervised the program on performance day. Terry Marathonitis served as sound technician and recorded the songs used throughout the program, and Nicholas Liaptsios managed the stage curtains and provided the flameless candles carried during the “Secret School” skit. Katerina Christakis with Evagelia and Dimitri Vatakis decorated the gymnasium with countless blue and white Greek flags reminiscent of the Aegean Sea and the beloved Greek blue sky. Special thanks are extended to each of the aforementioned individuals, as well as to Eleftherios Ioannidis, Panagiotis Michailakis, Petros Michailakis, Panagiotis Patselikos, and Dimitri Vatakis for preparing the delicious meal served that day. Moreover, much appreciation is given to Katerina and Petros Christakis, Ana Kanellos, Angeliki and Kostas Frezoulis, Stephanie and John Malachias, the Order of St. Markella of Chios, Koula Spetsiotis, Evagelia and Dimitri Vatakis, and Koula and Costas Vennis for their generous donations.

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Finally, as Greek School director, I wish to express my sincere gratitude for all the support provided by Holy Trinity Cathedral PTA President Evagelia Vatakis and Parish Council President Barbara Stavis Wolf. Holy Trinity Greek School is committed to promoting Greek history, language, and culture and looks forward to providing a wide range of cultural events in the future.

ΖΗΤΩ Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ!

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KURSK ROOT ICON TO VISIT LOUISIANA

The Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God of the Sign dates from the 13th century and is one of the most ancient icons of the Russian Church. It depicts the Theotokos "of the Sign" with arms outstretched and the Christ child before her. Above her is the "Lord of Hosts," and on either side and below are nine prophets, who wrote about the birth of Christ (clockwise, starting at the top right): King Solomon, Prophets Daniel, Jeremiah, Elijah, Habakkuk, Judge Gideon, Prophets Isaiah, Moses, and King David. The wooden icon is covered with an intricately worked cover of blue and gold.

On September 8, 1259, a hunter noticed the icon lying on a root face downwards to the ground. The hunter lifted it and saw that

the image of the icon was similar to the Novgorod "Znamenie" Icon of the Mother of God. Just as the hunter lifted up the holy icon from the earth, a strong spring of pure water surged up at that place where the icon rested. Several copies of the icon were made, which also have been associated with miracles.

With the help granted by the Mother of God, this icon is linked to important events in Russian history: the war of liberation of the Russian nation during the Polish-Lithuanian incursion in 1612 and the 1812 Fatherland war.

The wonderworking Icon of the Mother of God will be making its second visit to St. John the Theologian Orthodox Mission in St. Francisville, Louisiana. An Akathist service will be chanted on the evening of May 17, 2016. All are welcome to come and venerate the Icon. The community plans to rent a mini-van or small bus to drive to St. Francisville. If you would like to ride the bus for a nominal fee, please contact Presvytera Harriet Wilson at 504-941-7681 or by email at dedousis@juno.com.

GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF AMERICA

OFFICE OF THE ARCHBISHOP

Protocol 36/16

March 14, 2016 Holy and Great Lent

It is my prayer that your love may abound more and more.... Philippians 1:9

To the Most Reverend Hierarchs, the Reverend Priests and Deacons, the Monks and Nuns, the Presidents and Members of the Parish Councils of the Greek Orthodox Communities, the Distinguished Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Day, Afternoon, and Church Schools, the Philoptochos Sisterhoods, the Youth, the Hellenic Organizations, and the entire Greek Orthodox Family in America Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As we begin our solemn journey through this holy time of Great Lent, we are guided by the beautiful services and traditions of our Orthodox faith to dedicate ourselves to prayer and fasting, to gather more frequently in worship, to contemplate the direction of our lives in repentance, and to strengthen our faith in the hope of the light and life to come. The spiritual impact of this sacred time of year is tremendous, if we dedicate our full being—heart, body, soul and mind—to God. This transformation in our lives and the witness of life and faith we offer others through Great Lent is affirmed in the opening of the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians. In giving thanks to God for the Christians in Philippi and their partnership in the Gospel, Paul writes, It is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with all knowledge and discernment (Phil. 1:9). From their faith in and experience of the love of God and their love for one another, they were growing in spiritual wisdom. When we come before God in repentance, we too experience His great love for us. His abundant and saving grace is revealed and acknowledged throughout this season of Lent as we are guided to the complete and ultimate act of love in the Pas sion of our Lord. As we receive His love and our lives are renewed in it, we are blessed with a deeper knowledge o f truth and His will. Blessed by His grace and presence, we gain a higher level of discernment to see what is pure and holy. This is affirmed by the Apostle Paul as he continues his letter: So that you may approve what is excellent, and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ (Phil. 1:10). In these words we can see how Great Lent is a preparation to receive the Risen Lord; but we also see how this sacred time should influence our lives in our preparation for eternity. Through repentance and the forgiveness of God we are able to see the way to salvation. Through grace and faith we become a new person in Christ, knowing and seeking the abundant blessings that He offers to us. The Apostle Paul refers to these blessings as the fruits of righteousness which come through Jesus Christ (Phil. 1:11). During Great Lent and through our prayers, worship, and fasting, we experience these blessings, and we see the great spiritual fruit that comes. We see how this journey is the journey of our entire life, culminating in the blessings of eternal life and communion with God. We see the blessings through our witness and ministry to others during this holy season, as we prayerfully anticipate the light and joy of Pascha. As we look to the days and weeks ahead, I prayerfully ask that you commit your time to the spiritual opportunities offered in Great Lent. Be faithful in prayer and worship. Keep the fast. Offer your time and resources to help those in need. Above all, seek the grace of God that your love may abound for Him and each other, and from the abundant blessings and spiritual fruit we receive, we will offer thanksgiving, glory, and praise to Him!

With paternal love in Christ,

DEMETRIOS Archbishop of America

8 East 79th Street. New York. NY 10075-0192 · Telephone: (212) 570-3500 · Fax: (212) 570-3592

Web Site: www.goarch.org 8

Phanar, February 20, 2016

The Rev. George Wilson

Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral

1200 Robert E. Lee Boulevard

New Orleans, LA 70122

UNITED STATES

Dear Fr. George,

His All-Holiness our Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has directed me to

communicate with you.

His All-Holiness would like to congratulate you for the ten-year anniversary your

community recently celebrated since recovering from the damage inflicted by Hurricane

Katrina. This occasion is a testament to the diligence and love with which you have

steadfastly labored in the Lord's vineyard even in the face of great difficulty and trials.

Furthermore, it brings him much personal joy that you should so faithfully honor his

person and the martyric Mother Church by commemorating him in such a loving manner.

He assures you of his fervent prayers for the continued strength and spiritual growth of your

parish.

Conveying to you the Patriarchal blessings and prayers of His All-Holiness, I remain

Sincerely yours,

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HOLY TRINITY CATHEDRAL 2016 STEWARDSHIP CAMPAIGN

PLEDGES RECEIVED BY MARCH 23

The Cathedral office has received 159 commitments totaling $99,850.00. Of this $61,193.00 was paid with an average pledge of $627.99. Thank you to all, who support the 2016 Stewardship Ministry.

Reverend George and Presvytera Harriet Wilson

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Funti, Deborah Ann and Vasili Fyssas, Despina and George Georges, Anita Georges, Constantine Gervais, Angela and Derrick Haddad, Vilam Hazifotis, Kostas Hodge, Maria Howard, Jr., Homer Howard, Stela Howard, Stephan Ioannidis, Christine & Emmanuel Jimenez, Caroline and John Johnson, Helen Maskas and Ben Kanellos, John Kanellos, Melissa and George Kleamenakis, Andrew Kleamenakis, Argie and Nick Koga, Vaughan and Sebastian Koniditsiotis, Cornelia and John Koniditsiotis, Jeanne and Elias Koniditsiotis, Jenny and Harry Konos, Marcella and Pete Kontaxis, Athena Kontoudis, Despina Korominas, Lenna and George Kringas, Angie Kyame, Faith Kyriakides, Maria and Aris Labatut, Argeta and Lawrence Labatut, Jonathan Labatut, Michael Lambousy, Peter G. Latour, Patrick Latsis, Katherine and Spiro Levendis, Eleni Levendis, Nicki M. Maag, Maggie and Richard Madonia, Arlene and Jason

Mailhes, Tina Malachias, Helen and Charles Malachias, Vange Mantikos, Rania Mantikos, Vasili & Miranda Webb Mantis, Rosy and Thomas McCallef, Vicki and Anthony McCrary, Mona and Douglas McGee, Kris Diane and Richard Megilligan, Alexandra & George Miaoulis, Anita and Chris Michailakis, Bridgett and Kosta Michailakis, Michael Michailakis, Pam and Gus Michailakis, Petroula and Pete Moustoukas, Despina Moustoukas, Viki and Nick Naquin, Georgia and Lee Nevels, Anastassia & John Max Nicoladis, Kristen and Michael F. Nicopoulos, Sue & Constandinos Nugent, Elaine Michalos Papadopoulos, Denise & Dennis Pappas, Christina and Nicholas Pelias, Magda Pembo, Angela Pembo, Dayna and Tony Pembo, Michelle Pepps, Mary Peterson, Diana and Brian Petikas, Mary and Dimitrios Petratos, Angelina & Demetrios Popa, Maria and Vasile Psarellis, Steven E. Psilos, Gail and Tony Putnam, Andrea and John Ramirez, Anna and Jesus Razza, Anna B. Ricciardi, Chrysanthy Rostovshikova, Natalya

Alatzas, Nicolai Ammons, Denise and Vladimir Andersson, Andrea and John Cable Andersson, Billie and Paul Andres, Christine P. Andrews, Bethlehem K. Angelico, Robert and Kathy Conklin Angelus, Maria and George Athas, Nancy

Bakamitsos, Marion and Georgios Batrincea, Ana and Alexandru Bell, Victoria and Jon Benoit, Katherine and Chris Bode, Tory and Paul Bouzon, Nicholas Bouzon, Sandy and Spiron Bozinis, Ena and Theodoros Cabali, Juanita Caridas, Pauline Cathedral Montessori School Catinis, Ana and George Catsulis, Victoria Chancy, Jr., Dena and James W. Charalampidis, Panagiota & Dimitrios Christakis, Despina Christakis, Joann S.

1. Christakis, Olga Christidis, Georgia and Stylianos Chronis, Diane and Nicholas Cochran, Jennie and Jerry Coluceriu-Dandu, Amanda and Calin Davrados, Nikolaos Dongieux, Pam Doussa, Sandra Dupriest, Ellen and Randy Dupriest, Jr., Randy Dupriest, Ross Ferguson, Christina and Tyler Fotiades, Julie

Salles-Tsatsoulis, Kathy Savvaides, Despina and Stavros Sher, Anna Skaff, Amy and Brandon Skoufalos, Ofeliamanda and Dimos Sotiropoulos, Christine & Evangelos Stathopoulos, Nicholas Stokes, Maria and Brian Strain, Martha and James R. Stratikis, Suzanne and George Tadros, Katherine and Daniel Theodoron, Sophie Tiliakos, Connie and Alexander Tiliakos, John Toras, Emily and Eleftherios Tsatalios, Peter Tsimboukis, Suzanne & Efthimios Tzavellas, Fotini and George Tzerefos, Cindy G. and Nicholas P. Tzerefos, Panagiotis L. Vaida, Mary and Razvan Vassilas, Anastasia Vatakis, Evagelia and Dimitris Venturatos, Carol and Steve Venturatos, Stephanie Voulgarakis, Claudia and Vassilios White, Deborah and William Whitehead, Martha and Joel Wisdom, Maria and Andrew Withrow, Kate Wolf, Angelle and William Wolf, Barbara Stavis Xiros, Nick and Fay Kalergi Yiannopoulos, A. N. Zannis, Marie Zetzmann III, Robert E. Zetzmann, Kaler Zetzmann, Kathy and Robert Zissis, Laila and Tim Zouboukos, Carol and Nick

ADOPT-A-DAY AND ADOPT-A-HALF-DAY PROGRAMS

The following days WERE SELECTED by stewards, who qualified for the “adoption” program by pledging $1,000 for a full day or $500 for a half day. However, there are numerous stewards, who qualify but have not yet designated their day or half day. If your pledge is within the qualifying ranges and you have not submitted your selection or selections, please call the Cathedral office as soon as possible. Asterisks denote half days.

March 6 April 3 April 12 April 23 April 25*

January 1 January 3 February 2 February 7 February 23*

June 24* July 3 July 23 August 7 August 17*

August 18* August 19* September 1 September 4 September 8

December 2 December 4 December 6 December 12 December 25

May 1 June 5 June 7 June 15 June 21

September 14 September 18 October 2 October 8 November 6

DAUGHTERS OF PENELOPE

The Daughters of Penelope Nestor Chapter celebrated its 79th birthday in February. The local chapter was formed on February 26, 1937, with twenty-three (23) members. A lovely cake was served by hostesses Denise Ammons, Anna Razza, and Sophie Theodoron to honor the occasion. At the March meeting, new member Suzie Yousif was initiated and welcomed to the chapter. Meeting hostesses Mary Ellen Grace, Vange Malachias, and Barbara Wolf celebrated with a St. Patrick's Day theme. The next meeting of the Daughters will be April 17 at 12:00 pm in the Coffee Room. Also, please make plans to attend the AHEPA Family sponsored annual Palm Sunday Luncheon on April 24.

The PTA will sponsor the annual Saturday of Lazarus Communion Breakfast on April 23, 2016, after church services. The Lenten breakfast will be followed by a special activity during which Greek School Director Fay Kalergi will make Greek cookies with the children. Concurrently, GOYA members will prepare palms for Palm Sunday.

Please consider volunteering for Kids' Café. ALL Sundays in April—3, 10, 17, and 24—are available.

PTA sincerely thanks the individuals that donated their time to make delicious soups for the PTA Lenten Soup Fundraiser. They were Chairperson Vicki McCallef, Connie Kringas, Alexandra Megilligan, Christine Sotiropoulos, and Georgia Zervoudis. Also, PTA is most grateful to the supporters that helped make this endeavor a success. Some proceeds will benefit the next HOPE & JOY IOCC humanitarian project.

PTA acknowledges all whose support, donations, volunteering, and participation made the Greek Independence Day Celebration a memorable event. Special recognition is given to the Order of St. Markella of Chios for donating the dessert; Kate Withrow for her beautiful musical solo performance; the guest speakers, the Hellenic Dancers, and the cooks for their individual contributions; Greek School Director Fay Kalergi for the educational background; and the students for their performances and reenactments of the historical program.

A M E M O f r o m H O L Y T R I N I T Y P T A

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SAVE THE DATE

Saturday, October 22, 2016

Sponsored by the Order of St. Markella of Chios

PORTION OF PROFITS WILL BENEFIT ST. JUDE HOSPITAL

Philoptochos extends sincere appreciation to the Order of Saint Markella of Chios for sponsoring the February luncheon. Maria Anastasiou decorated the tables with a Valentine theme. The colorful plants became bingo prizes, and each senior received a Valentine favor. In the kitchen Panagiotis Michailakis and Petros Michailakis were very busy preparing a tasty pork loin and vegetables while Maria Anastasiou baked a soufflé and prepared salad. The dessert was a special chocolate cake donated by Despina Savvaides. Many thanks are offered to Maria Anastasiou and Cornelia Koniditsiotis for organizing the luncheon.

Kalliope Miachilakis, Maria Anastasiou and Mary Kontos

Hints of spring adorned the room!

Kalliope Michailakis, Maria Anastasiou, and Mary Kontos

Senior Citizens Attend Philoptochos Luncheon in February

Panagiotis and Petros Michailakis

Joann Christakis, Maria Anastasiou, Georgia Zervoudis, Loukia Christakis, and Kalliope Michailakis served the meal.

Debbie Funti and Faith Kyame ran the bingo game. Prize winners included Stamatis Gamvrogianis, Angie Kringas, Magda Pelias, and Eleftheria Demarinis.

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SENIOR CITIZENS LUNCHEON IN MARCH

Debbie Funti, Loukia Christakis, Georgia Zervoudis, and Evgenia Anastasiou

RIGHT—Recent visit to Metropolis of Atlanta to discuss Cathedral Montessori School with His

Eminence Metropolitan Alexios. See letter on page 5.

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Maria Anastasiou, Panagiotis Michailakis, and Petros Michailakis teamed up again in March to prepare a delicious Lenten meal. Maria’s Lenten baklava was enjoyed by all. Many thanks to Maria and Kosta Anastasiou for sponsoring the luncheon in honor of their parents and to Maria Mellis for sponsoring the luncheon in memory of her husband Nick Mellis. The luncheon theme was “St. Patrick’s Day,” and Maria decorated the tables with blooming orchids, candle lights, and clusters of green mints. Thank you to Maria Anastasiou and Cornelia Koniditsiotis for organizing the event and to all who helped.

George Latsis, Panagiotis Michailakis, Petros Michailakis, and Dimitri Vatakis

Andrew Kleamenakis

Joann Christakis

Andrew Gambos Despina Moustoukas Jeanette Tsatalios

P a r e n t s , G r a n d p a r e n t s , & G o d p a r e n t s ,

You are encouraged to pick up a CHURCH QUIET BAG, available in the small room on the right side of the Narthex, for your youngest Holy Trinity parishioners. The bags include religious books and quiet activities that can help your children learn about the Orthodox faith, with your guidance, during Divine Liturgy. You are also encouraged to work with the young ones during the Liturgy by having them stand up for the processions, Epistle and Gospel readings, the Nicene Creed, and the Lord's Prayer, as well as

kneel at the appropriate time. Engage them in looking at the icons and quietly remind them of what they see in Church. Please RETURN THE BAGS in their original condition to the room in the Narthex prior to Sunday Church School so others can enjoy them the following Sunday. The CHURCH QUIET BAGS were lovingly donated by the Moustoukas and Peterson families and sponsored by the ECYM Committee.

LUNCHEO N Holy Trinity Community is invited to join the AHEPA FAMILY AHEPA Andrew Jackson Chapter #133 & Daughters of Penelope Nestor Chapter #55

for the Annual Palm Sunday Luncheon

SUNDAY, APRIL 24, 2016 immediately following Divine Liturgy

Tickets on sale at the door — $10 adults & $6 children under 12

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HEY! It’s an AHEPA

CRAWFISH BOIL - MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

Sunday, April 10

4:00 pm

Cathedral Grounds followed by a short meeting

All present members, past members, and those interested in joining are invited to attend.

“GREEKS IN NEW ORLEANS”

DOCUMENTARY TO AIR IN MAY

ON WYES—Channel 12

Thursday, May 19 at 8:00 pm Friday, May 27 at 10:00 pm

Saturday, May 28 at 7:00 pm Sunday, May 29 at 12:00 pm

This DVD video, which chronicles the history of Holy Trinity from 1864-2014, can be purchased from the Cathedral office for $20.

COMMUNITY WIDE FAMILY DAY IN APRIL

All HTC parishioners are invited to attend the Family Day Community Wide Fasting Potluck Luncheon and "Earth Day Celebration" on Sunday, April 17, after church services for prayer, fellowship, and information about Mother Earth. All HOPE & JOY and GOYA members are encouraged to participate in an Earth Day craft, which will be provided. Contact Vicki Mantikos McCallef at vmccallef@yahoo.com or text her at 985.774.9152 with what fasting food item or drink you would like to contribute and share with everyone.

YOUTH HYMNOLOGY PROGRAM

Parents, please mark two important Saturdays on your calendars. The Sunday Church School students have been practicing special hymns to chant in church during April and May, and their presence is needed on the following dates:

April 23 — 9:00 am Saturday of Lazarus Service Rehearsal immediately after Divine Liturgy, followed by Communion Breakfast April 30 — 9:00 am SHARP! Students will chant the Hymn of the Three Youths, and teens will offer Bible readings.

Students in 4th Grade and older are invited to sing with the adult choir on Sundays and Friday evenings, when mentors will assist them. They must arrive by 10:00 am on Sundays and by 7:00 pm on Fridays. There has been a positive response to this initiative.

ALL CHILDREN OF THE COMMUNITY ARE WELCOME TO PARTICIPATE in any Sunday Church School and Hymnology activities. For more information, please contact Viki Moustoukas, vmoustouka@aol.com. Thanks to everyone for the tremendous support of this youth ministry.

The Holy Trinity Parish Council invites all parishioners to celebrate Christ’s Resurrection at the annual

FEAST OF FEASTS PASCHA DAY PICNIC

SUNDAY, MAY 1, 2016

HOLY TRINITY CATHEDRAL

approximately 1:30 pm after Agape Service

and the HOPE & JOY Easter Egg Hunt

Donation $12 per Person

Children 10 and under free

Enjoy a traditional Greek Pascha Menu

Potluck Dessert & Cracking of Red Eggs

Live Music & DJ Leftheris!

A VISIT FROM THE PASCHA BUNNY

WATERSLIDE

Contact Constandinos Vennis at 504-282-2670, if you have questions, would like to help prepare food, or would like to donate an item.

The 2016 Dennis A. Georges Lecure in Hellenic Culture

Theater of War – Thursday, April 7, 2016 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Dixon Hall – Tulane University

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A P R I L 2 0 1 6

FRIDAY, APRIL 1 6:00 pm Western Conference GOYA Lenten Retreat Dinner 7:00 pm Third Salutations to the Theotokos—GOYA Aspile Readers 8:00 pm GOYA Activities with Ambassadors SATURDAY, APRIL 2 NO GREEK SCHOOL 10:00 am Spring Lenten Retreat Registration 10:30 am Spring Lenten Retreat with His Grace Bishop Gregory 11:30 am GOYA Break Out Discussion Groups with Ambassadors 12:00 pm Lunch 12:30 pm Western Conference Oratorical Festival Registration 1:00 pm Western Conference Oratorical Festival 1:00 pm Spring Lenten Retreat Discussion Group 3:00 pm GOYA Activities and Programs with Ambassadors 7:00 pm GOYA Dinner 8:00 pm GOYA Putt Putt Golf Outing at City Park SUNDAY, APRIL 3 9:00 am Orthros 10:00 am Hierarchical Divine Liturgy—SUNDAY OF THE HOLY CROSS Youth Hymnology and Sunday Church School after Holy Communion St. John Chrysostom Oratorical Festival Presentation 12:00 pm Kids' Café 12:00 pm Community Luncheon 1:30 pm Hellenic Dancers Practice MONDAY, APRIL 4 6:00 pm Great Compline TUESDAY, APRIL 5 9:30 am Greek Festival Pastry Workshop 7:00 pm Adult Beginner Greek School 7:00 pm Cathedral Montessori School Board Meeting WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6 9:30 am Greek Festival Pastry Workshop 6:00 pm Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts 7:00 pm Adult Intermediate (Low Level) Greek School 7:30 pm Lenten Potluck Dinner THURSDAY, APRIL 7 8:00 am Greek Festival Pastichio Workshop 6:30 pm Hellenic Dancers Practice 7:30 pm Orthodox Christian Fellowship at Tulane University FRIDAY, APRIL 8 8:00 am Greek Festival Pastichio Workshop 9:45 am Cathedral Montessori School Chapel 5:30 pm HTC Youth Soccer Practice and Dinner 7:00 pm Fourth Salutations to the Theotokos—GOYA Aspile Readers SATURDAY, APRIL 9 10:00 am Youth Beginner Greek School 10:30 am Adult Catechism and Inquirers Class 10:30 am Philoptochos Meeting 11:00 am Youth Greek Dance Class 11:30 am Youth Elementary Greek School 10:00 pm Hall Rental SUNDAY, APRIL 10 9:00 am Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy—SUNDAY OF ST. JOHN CLIMACUS Youth Hymnology and Sunday School after Holy Communion 12:00 pm Greek Festival Pastichio Workshop 12:00 pm Kids' Cafe 12:00 pm Holy Trinity PTA Meeting 1:30 pm Hellenic Dancers Practice 4:00 pm AHEPA Crawfish Boil-Membership Drive and Meeting MONDAY, APRIL 11 8:00 am Greek Festival Pastichio Workshop 6:00 pm Great Compline 7:00 pm ECYM Meeting TUESDAY, APRIL 12 9:30 am Greek Festival Pastry Workshop 7:00 pm Adult Beginner Greek School 7:00 pm Parish Council Meeting WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13 9:30 am Greek Festival Pastry Workshop 6:00 pm Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts 7:00 pm Adult Intermediate (Low Level) Greek School 7:30 pm Lenten Potluck Dinner THURSDAY, APRIL 14 8:00 am Greek Festival Pastichio Workshop 6:30 pm Hellenic Dancers Practice FRIDAY, APRIL 15 8:00 am Greek Festival Pastichio Workshop 9:45 am Cathedral Montessori School Chapel 5:30 pm HTC Youth Soccer Practice and Dinner 7:00 pm Akathist Hymn 8:30 pm Philoptochos Lenten Reception

A P R I L 2 0 1 6 — C O N T I N U E D

SATURDAY, APRIL 16 10:00 am Youth Beginner Greek School 11:00 am PETIKAS BAPTISM 11:00 am Youth Greek Dance Class 11:30 am Youth Elementary Greek School SUNDAY, APRIL 17 9:00 am Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy—SUNDAY OF ST. MARY OF EGYPT Youth Hymnology and Sunday School after Holy Communion 12:00 pm Daughters of Penelope Meeting 12:00 pm Kids' Cafe 12:00 pm Community Wide Family Day "Earth Day Celebration" and Lenten Potluck Luncheon 1:30 pm Hellenic Dancers Practice 2:00 pm BAER BAPTISM MONDAY, APRIL 18 6:00 pm Great Compline TUESDAY, APRIL 19 9:30 am Greek Festival Pastry Workshop 7:00 pm Adult Beginner Greek School WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20 9:30 am Greek Festival Pastry Workshop 6:00 pm Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts 7:00 pm Adult Intermediate (Low Level) Greek School 7:30 pm Lenten Potluck Dinner THURSDAY, APRIL 21 9:00 am Book Club Meeting—LAST SPRING SESSION 10:00 am Archives Committee Workshop 6:30 pm Hellenic Dancers Practice 7:30 pm Orthodox Christian Fellowship at Tulane University FRIDAY, APRIL 22 9:45 am Cathedral Montessori School Chapel 4:00 pm AKIRTAVA BAPTISM 6:00 pm HTC Youth Soccer Practice and Dinner—LAST SPRING SESSION SATURDAY, APRIL 23 9:00 am Divine Liturgy—SATURDAY OF LAZARUS NO GREEK SCHOOL 10:15 am Holy Trinity PTA Communion Breakfast 11:00 am GOYA Palm Making and Meeting 2:00 pm Philoptochos Ozanam Inn SUNDAY, APRIL 24 9:00 am Orthros 10:00 am Divine Liturgy—PALM SUNDAY Sunday School Group Lesson in Coffee Room 12:00 pm AHEPA Family Palm Sunday Luncheon 7:00 pm Nymphios (Bridegroom) Service HOLY MONDAY, APRIL 25 7:00 pm Nymphios (Bridegroom) Service HOLY TUESDAY, APRIL 26 7:00 pm Nymphios (Bridegroom) Service—Hymn of Kassiani the Nun HOLY WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27 6:00 am Greek Festival Tsourekia Workshop 4:00 pm Sacrament of Holy Unction 7:00 pm Sacrament of Holy Unction HOLY THURSDAY, APRIL 28 6:00 am Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great 7:00 pm Service of the Holy Passion—The Twelve Gospels HOLY FRIDAY, APRIL 29 8:00 am Service of the Royal Hours Kouvouklion Decorating GOYA Easter Egg Wrapping 3:00 pm Vespers of the Cross (Taking our Lord down from the Cross) 7:00 pm Service of the Lamentations and Procession HOLY SATURDAY, APRIL 30 9:00 am Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great 11:00 pm Orthros 12:00 am Resurrection Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom 2:00 am Pascal Fellowship with Traditional Soup and Tsourekia HOLY PASCHA, MAY 1 12:00 pm Agape Vespers 1:00 pm HOPE & JOY Easter Egg Hunt 1:30 pm Annual Pascha Picnic

Please help the Archives Committee recognize our veterans for Memorial Day. Below is a list created for Veterans Day in 2012. If you have a family member, who served in WWI or WWII, that is not included, contact Maggie Maag at 504-780-9165.

WWI 1. Peter Catis 2. George Kottes 3. Louis V. Malachias 4. Louis J. Spirros

WWII 1. J. Chris Arnos 2. Nick Asprodites 3. John Asprodites 4. Steven Asprodites 5. Thomas Asprodites 6. Alexander Athas 7. Thomas Baffes 8. Nick Bassil 9. Paul Bon

10. Theodore Cabali 11. Stamatis Cabali

12. James Cajoleas 13. Louis Cajoleas 14. George Cambali 15. Gabe Castrinos 16. Ernest Chryssoverges 17. Ernest Couloheras 18. Gus Couloheras 19. Edward Dabbs 20. A.E. Gianopoulos 21. G.E. Gianopoulos 22. George Johnson 23. James Johnson 24. Stephen Johnson 25. Nick Kleamenakis 26. Peter Kleamenakis 27. George Kottes 28. Lillian Kyame 29. Mike Kyame

30. George Lambousy 31. Costa Michalos 32. Michael Moustoukas 33. George Pappas 34. George Pelias 35. Gerald Pelias 36. Harold Pelias 37. Harry Pelias 38. James Pelias 39. Chris Pembo 40. George Sarandopoulos 41. Steve Sarandopoulos 42. William Stavis 43. Ted Tzavellas 44. Nicholas Vagianos 45. George Venturatos 46. John Venturatos 47. George Zoules

PRE-GREEK FESTIVAL PASTRY ORDER FORM — SPRING 2016

NAME:________________________________________________________

PHONE:_______________________________________________________

Tsourekia $10.00 x _____________ = $_________________

Items Sold by the Dozen

Almond Rolls $12.00 x _____________ = $_________________

Galaktoboureka $12.00 x _____________ = $_________________

Koulourakia $ 6.00 x _____________ = $_________________

Tiropites $12.00 x _____________ = $_________________

PAID: Yes No TOTAL: $________________