On Sunday, Dec 8th after Divine Liturgy, the parish held its St. Nicholas Party during it's Coffee Hour.   This annual event is held specifically for the parish children, but also for the parish community to gather for fellowship and seasonal joy.  There is a visit from Santa for the children, and all are requested to donate a Christmas gift to donate to local charity toy drive – this year the Church School will be collecting and delivering those gifts to St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Shop and Food Bank who will distribute them to the underprivileged children of the lower Naugatuck Valley. The gathering was very well attended and enjoyed by all. Many thanks go out to Pauline Dionis, Curt & Nicole Dionis, and Laura Denisevich who handled all the major aspects of planning cooking and preparing for the celebration.  Thanks to Louise Gallagher & Cathy Hotova who helped with the cleanup, and Laura Coughlin who helped keeping the coffee flowing.  A final thank you to Greg Buzi II for "arranging" for Santa's visit, and to Sophie & Brooke Dionis who were Santa's helpers. Click on the more information link below to view several photos.

On Sunday, Nov 24th, a Doxology service (a prayer of praise to God) was held after Divine Liturgy recognizing Albanian Flag Day (Dita e Flamurit).  The official observation date for Flag Day (or Albanian Independence Day) is November 28th.  Click onto the following link to view a text of the Doxology service that was used.  Our thanks go to Nardi Tollkuci who read the prayer in Albanian, and also helped during Divine Litrugy by reading the Gospel lesson in Albanian.  Click on the more information link below to view a few pictures.
 

St. George wishes to congratulate Fr. Sergei Bouteneff on the occasion of his 47th anniversary of his ordination into the Priesthood which will occur this coming Monday, Nov 25th.  Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet! to Fr. Sergei, and to his family. 

There are two options to order from - photos show the logos in detail

On Sunday November 10th after Divine Liturgy (the day before Veteran’s Day), St. George recognized our Veterans for their service to our country. Children from our Church School prepared some hand-made Thank-you cards which they gave to the Vets.  Click onto the following link to view the Veteran’s Day Prayer that was read during the recognition.  Click onto the more information link below to view a several photos. Many Years!

St. George held it's annual Fall Bazaar on Saturday, October 26th. The Bazaar is St. George's major fundraising event during the calendar year. A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all who had their hand in assisting with the Bazaar in some way - with organizing, set-up, cooking, baking, donating, working the event, and cleaning up at the end.  The Bazaar featured Ethnic dishes, Take-out meals, Albanian pastries, Take-A-Chance table, and Handcrafted items for sale.  We especially wish to recognize and thank the women of the Teuta Society who are the major driver and effort behind this event. Click onto the following link to view the 2024 Bazaar Ad Book - we ask you to review and note the businesses that supported us, and return the gesture by supporting their businesses. Click onto the more information link below to view several photos.

On Saturday, October 12th, Fr Sergei blessed the marriages of Sarah and Brian Davis and Chelsey and Hans Lugus. Thank you to Fr Sergei, Charlie Soter, and Peter Dacey for their participation in this joyous service. We wish both couples Many Years!

St. George was saddened to learn that a former parishioner, Virginia (Spiro) Schutte passed away on Monday, Oct 7th.  We extend our condolences to her husband Dennis, her sons David and Fr. Dennis, and their extended family. Click onto the following link to view her Obituary.  Memory Eternal! I perjetshem kujtimi! 

Click onto the following link to view and listen to an interview of Fr. Grigori Pelushi with Bishop Nikodhim. Fr. Grigori is a visiting dignitary from the Orthodox Church in Albania, and is the chair of Radio Ngjallja in Albania. Fr. Juxhin Skhurti served as a translator during the interview. The interview was conducted on October 3, 2024 in Boston, MA at the St. George Albanian Orthodox Cathedral -  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uk66DImFNGU
 
Bishop Nikodhim, Fr. Grigori, and Fr. Juxhin recently visited St. George on September 22nd, when Fr. Grigori gave a presentation to parishioners on the Orthodox Church in Albania. Click onto the following link to view an news update on that visit:  Welcome to Fr. Grigori Pelushi from the Orthodox Church of Albania
 

St. George was saddened to learn that James Rubis passed away on Friday, October 4th.  The family has requested that the funeral and burial services be private. Click onto the following link to read James Rubis' obituary. We extend our sympathies to Jim's wife Gloria, his children Michael, Christopher, and Michele, his sister Viola Watson, and their extended family.  Memory Eternal! I perjetshem kujtimi! 

On Sunday, October 6th after Divine Liturgy, Saint George recognized our Choir Directors, Singers, Chanters  and Readers as part of the commemoration of “Church Musician Sunday”.  The Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America designated the Sunday following the commemoration of Saint Romanus the Melodist (October 1st) as “Church Musician Sunday.” This annual designation highlights the essential role of liturgical music in Orthodox Christian worship and the important role of church musicians in the life of the Church. Those who serve in our musical ministries were publicly thanked, given a Thank you card which was signed by our Church School, and recognized with the parish singing to them Many Years!

The photo on the left is an icon located at St. George on the rear (or north-side) wall of the choir -  it is the Icon of the Feast of the Protection of the Most-Holy Theotokos.  The St. George icon shows the Theotokos standing above the faithful with her arms outstretched in prayer, but below the Theotokos, in the center of the icon, stands Saint Romanus the Melodist, the famous hymnographer whose feast is also celebrated on the same day. On the lower left corner of the icon is his choir. 

Click onto the more information link below to view several photos.
 

At the end of Divine Liturgy on Sunday, September 29th, St. George held a memorial service for Fr. Arthur Liolin on the 1-year anniversary of his death.  Fr. Arthur was the former pastor of St. George Albanian Orthodox Cathedral in Boston, and our former long-time Chancellor of the Albanian Orthodox Archdiocese in America. I perjetshem kujtimi! Click onto the more information link below to view some photos from the memorial service.
 

On Sunday evening at 5PM, St. George was honored to host a visit from His Grace, Bishop Nikodhim, Bishop of Boston and the Albanian Archdiocese in America, Fr. Juxhin Skhurti and his wife, Prifteresha Livia (Fr. Juxhin was ordained to the priesthood the day prior, on Saturday, Sept 21st during Divine Liturgy as part of the Annual Archdiocesan Assembly which was held at St. Peter & Paul in Philadelphia), and Fr. Grigori Pelushi.  Fr. Grigori is a visiting dignitary from the Orthodox Church in Albania, and is the chair of Radio Ngjallja and the secretary of the Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church of Albania.  He attended the Archdiocesan Assembly in Philadelphia and is visiting several parishes in the Albanian Archdiocese in America.  
 
There was a light meal available for participants and afterwards, Fr. Grigori gave a presentation on the Orthodox Church in Albania and answered a few questions from some of the parishioners.
 
Additionally, Bishop Nikodhim presented to St. George a new Antimension.  An antimension is a gold colored cloth that has an icon of the Burial of Christ. Sewn into many antimensions are a relic of a martyr, and in the St. George antimension, there is a relic of the Hieromartyr Januarius.  Click onto the following link to read about the many miracles attributed to Hieromartyr Januarius Bishop of Benevento.  Bishop Nikodhim made a notation "St. Januarius" on the antimension in the upper right corner.  The antimension sits on the Altar table and gives permission from the bishop, in our case Bishop Nikodhim, for our community to exist as a parish and to serve Divine Liturgy.  Bishop Nikodhim’s signature is also located on the antimension.  Click onto the more information link below to view 2 photos. 
 
Many thanks go out to parishioners who set-up for the event, donated and prepared food, dishes, desserts, and beverages for the meal, and cleaned up afterward.  Special thanks go to Louise Gallagher, Curt Dionis, Pauline Dionis, and Laura Coughlin for their lead, organization and extra efforts in putting this event together. 
 
Click onto the more information link below to view several photos.

We welcomed Fr. Danaks (Fr. Dennis Rhodes) again to St. George on Sunday, September 22nd to serve Divine Liturgy for us.  Fr. Danaks was tonsured as a Hieromonk (a priest-monk) on Friday, Sept 20th (see additional info below).  St. George sang Many Years after Divine Liturgy to him, and celebrated with a cake at Coffee Hour in the Church Hall.  Click onto the more information link below to view several photos from Sunday, Sept 22nd. May God grant Fr. Danaks Many Years!
 
The opening paraklesis on Friday morning, Sept 20th, of the Albanian Archdiocese Annual Assembly included the monastic tonsure of Fr. Dennis Rhodes. Fr. Dennis is now known as Hieromonk Danaks (honoring the 2nd century Albanian martyr).  Fr. Danaks (Fr. Dennis) served as our parish priest for 8 years, from September 2010 until September 2018.  
 
The two liturgical services at the Assembly (Friday 9AM opening prayers with Fr Dennis' monastic tonsure, and the Saturday 10AM Hierarchal Divine Liturgy with ordination of Dn Jushin Skhurti, memorial service and prayers) will be aired live and available afterwards on the St. Peter & Paul parish's YouTube channel:   https://www.youtube.com/@sspeterpaulorthodoxchurcho1810   Additionally, you may click onto the following link at the Albanian Orthodox Archdiocese website, under "Assembly in Philadelphia" to view photos from the Friday opening prayers with Fr. Dennis' monastic tonsure, and some photos from the legislative session of the Assembly:  https://albanianarchdiocese.org
 

Congratulations to Jim Bowe who turned 90 years old this past week.  His family sponsored the Coffee Hour in his honor. Many years!  Click onto the more information line below to view a few photos.

St. George celebrated the feast of the Elevation of the Cross (also known as the Exaltation of the Cross) with Divine Liturgy on Sunday, September 15th.  This feast day was transferred from Saturday, September 14th. This feast commemorates the finding of Christ’s Cross by Saint Helen, the mother of the Emperor Constantine in the fourth century.  At the end of Divine Liturgy, Fr. Dennis lead a procession with the cross around the church with the Church School children following the cross in procession.  The procession ended at the center of the church where parishioners completed prostrations before the cross while the choir sang the hymn for the Great Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross: “Before Thy Cross, we bow down in worship, O Master, and Thy holy resurrection, we glorify!"

Immediately after this procession and prostrations, Fr. Dennis lead the parish in prayer for the beginning of the new Church School year with the Church School children gathered in the center aisle.  Sunday was the first day of classes for the 2024-2025 Church School year. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos from the day's service.

St. George welcomed and wishes to thank Fr. Dennis Rhodes for serving Divine Liturgy for us on Sunday, September 15th.  He will be returning again to serve Divine Liturgy for us next Sunday, September 22nd.  Fr. Dennis was our parish priest from 2010 through 2018, after which he retired after serving 40 years as a priest.  Click onto the more information link to view a larger photo of Fr. Dennis giving his sermon.

On Sunday, September 8th, St. George celebrated Divine Liturgy for the feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos.  This feast commemorates the birth of the Mother of Jesus Christ, which is celebrated on September 8th each year. After Divine Liturgy, we sang the Magnification to the Theotokos in celebration of her nativity.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

We wish to give our best wishes for continued success to our collegians: 

Hayley Dionis who is beginning her college career at Furman University (South Carolina).

James Goetz - pursuing his Masters in Finance from the University of Maryland

The St George community would like to extend their condolences to the O’Brien family on the passing of John’s mother, Mary O’Brien, on September 1, 2024. May her memory be eternal!

On Sunday, September 1st after Divine Liturgy, St. George held a memorial service on the occasion of the 5th year anniversary of Archbishop Nikon's death.  His Eminence, Archbishop Nikon served as the Archbishop of Boston, New England, and the Albanian Archdiocese. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.
 

The first day of the Liturgical New Year in the Orthodox Church is September 1st.  At the end of Divine Liturgy, and after the Ambo Prayer, the following prayer was read for the Church’s New Year:  Prayer for the New Year.  Click onto the more information link below to view two photos.

St. George held a Parish Picnic after Divine Liturgy on Sunday, August 25th.  The picnic was held outside on the rear yard, and was a fundraiser hosted by the Teuta Ladies Society. Many thanks to all that supported the picnic by cooking and preparing salads and sides of food, managed the grills, set-up and broke down the tents, tables, chairs, and grills, and helped with all the final clean-up.  And finally a thank you to all who supported the event by participating. We would especially like to thank Mary, John, & Maribeth DiIlulio, and Pierre Rhodes (Maribeth's boyfriend and owner of Beyond All Drones).  Pierre took numerous drone photos and put together a video of the picnic from above. Click onto the more information link below to view photos and the video from the day. 

We congratulate Haley Dionis who is receiving a scholarship for the 2024-2025 school year from the Thomas and Katherine LaBache Scholarship Fund. The St. George parish offers best wishes to Haley for a successful year!

St. George welcomed and wishes to thank Fr. Dennis Rhodes for serving Divine Liturgy for us on Sunday, August 11th.  We celebrated the Feast of the Transfiguration, which was transferred from Tues, Aug 6th.  After Divine Liturgy, Fr. Dennis blessed grapes, fruit, and vegetables that is traditional on this feast day.  Fr. Dennis was our parish priest from 2010 through 2018, after which he retired after serving 40 years as a priest. Click onto the more information link below to view some photos.

On Sunday July 21st (the 4th Sunday after Pentecost) St. George wishes to thank The Right Reverend Nikodhim, Bishop of Boston and the Albanian Archdiocese, for serving Divine Liturgy for us.  After Divine Liturgy, the parish welcomed Bishop Nikodhim as he joined us for Coffee Hour in the church hall. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

On Sunday, July 7th, we commemorated All Saints of America.  We were blessed that Fr Sergei shared an icon of Saint Herman containing his relics, which was located on the center table of the church. Saint Herman’s relics are enshrined in a small reliquary at the bottom of the icon (below his feet). Click onto the more information link below to view some photos and to read additional information about the St. Herman icon and St. George's icon of Albanian and American saints. 
 

St. George celebrated the Feast of Pentecost on Sunday, June 23rd with Divine Liturgy immediately followed by the Kneeling Vespers.  The Feast commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit and is also seen as the culmination of the revelation of the Holy Trinity. 

The Troparian for Pentecost:  Blessed art You O Christ Our God / You have revealed the fishermen as most wise / By sending down upon them the Holy Spirit / Through them You drew the world into Your net / O Lover of Man, Glory to You!

Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

Congratulations to Sarah (O’Brien) and Brian Davis on the birth of their son, Banks Calloway, born June 12, 2024. He joins big sisters, River and Saylor. Grandparents are John and Kim O’Brien and great-grandmother is Toni Barmashi.  Per Shume Vjet!  Many Years!                                         
 

St. George recognized Fathers’s Day on Sunday, June 16th.  Names were read by Peter Dacey after our Reader Service, as seen in the photo on the left. The choir led the singing of Memory Eternal after the reading of the names of the departed, and Many Years after reading the names of those living.

The parish marked the end of the Church School year on Sunday, June 9th with a short Recognition and Commencement exercise immediately after Divine Liturgy. Our congratulations go out to the Students, and our thanks go to Curt Dionis for coordinating the Church School program, and to Pauline Dionis and Nicole Dionis for their teaching and backup coordination efforts to the program. Many years!  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

St. George was saddened to learn that Archpriest John Scollard unexpectedly fell asleep in the Lord on Friday, May 31st. Fr. John has been attached and serving as the Dean of Saint George Albanian Orthodox Cathedral in Boston.  

For 35 years, he was the former pastor of Saint John the Baptist Church in South Boston until the parish was tragically destroyed by fire in 2013.

Click onto the following link to view an In Memoriam from the OCA: https://www.oca.org/in-memoriam/archpriest-john-scollard  St. George held a Memorial Service for Fr. John on Sunday, June 2nd after Divine Liturgy. I perjetshem kujtimi! 

St. George wishes to thank the Teuta Ladies Society for organizing and holding a Spring Brunch after Divine Liturgy on Sunday, June 2nd.  We specifically wish to thank all those who prepared dishes and desserts, and helped with the set-up and cleanup, and for those who came out to support the fundraiser.  It was a rewarding display of fellowship and stewardship. Click onto the more information link to view several photos. 

Congratulations to our 2024 Graduates who recently completed their studies and graduated. We extend our best wishes to them for continued success!
 
TJ Coughlin – received a Master’s Degree in Film and Television Production from Loyola Marymount University (Los Angeles, CA)
Hayley Dionis – graduated from Greenwich High School
Erin Galich – received a B.A. in Psychology from Central Connecticut State University (New Britain). 
James Goetz – graduated from the University of Maryland with a B.A. in Economics. 
Pandora Kerma – received her Associate degree in Photography at Connecticut  State Community College (Housatonic Campus, Bridgeport)
Christopher Michael – received his Master’s of Education from Columbia University

On Sunday, May 26th, St. George recognized Memorial Day by praying for all of our deceased military veterans from the parish family. Memorial Day is a holiday that was established to officially remember those who have died in service to our country. St. George expanded our remembrance to include all the deceased veterans of our “parish family”, adding relatives of our parish family that served in the military and are now deceased. We also wish to thank the living military veterans who participated during the Memorial Service by standing in vigil (Veterans Day was established to officially thank our living veterans).  Prayers were said for 105 deceased veterans - click onto the following to view the list of names: St George - Names of Deceased Military Veterans.  Memory Eternal!  Please click onto the more information link below to view a  few photos from the service.

St. George extends congratulations to Luiza Tollkuci and Evan Stamps who were married on Saturday, May 18th.  We also wish to congratulate Luiza's parents, Nardi and Silijana, her sister Kristina Tollkuci, and her grandparents Nikolas and Liuiza Tollkuci. Many Years!  Për Shumë Vjet!  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

St. George learned of the repose of Vanthi Nani on Tuesday, May 14th. We extend our deepest condolences to Vanthi’s husband Koco Nani, her daughter Entela Gjylapi, her son Olsi George Nani, and to her extended family.  Click onto the following link to view her Obiturary-Vanthi Nani.  May her memory be eternal!   I perjetshem kujtimi! 

St. George recognized Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 12th during Divine Liturgy.  Prayers were offered for all of the living and departed mothers, stepmothers, daughters, stepdaughters, wives, sisters, stepsisters, great grandmothers, great granddaughters, grandmothers, granddaughters, great-aunts, aunts, nieces, godmothers, and all those who "mothered" us in our time of need. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

Please click onto the following link to view our specific thanks to the many people who helped to make Lent, Holy Week and Pascha beautiful and meaningful celebrations.  Thank you for their Stewardship!

Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!  Krishti U-Ngjall! Vërtet U-Ngjall! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Paschal greetings in both English and Albanian. The St. George community recently completed the service cycle of Great Lent and Holy Week to Holy Pascha, with the celebration of the Midnight Paschal Liturgy on May 5th.  Click Here to view the Paschal greeting in numerous languages.  Please click onto the more information link below to view several photos from the Pascha service.

On Friday, May 3rd, St. George completed services for Great and Holy Friday (Good Friday) with the afternoon Vespers Service of Taking down from the Cross, and the Friday evening Matins service for Great and Holy Saturday, with the Praises (or Lamentations) at the Tomb of Christ.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.  Come back in a few days to view some additional photos.

On Thursday evening, May 2nd, the Matins Service of Great and Holy Friday with the readings of the Twelve Gospel Lessons was held. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

On April 28th, St. George celebrated Palm Sunday, which marks the Entrance of the Lord into Jerusalem. After Divine Liturgy, there was a procession of palms lead by the youth and children of the parish. The blessing of the palms and branches followed with parishioners holding their branches high. This year, due to difficulty acquiring pussy willow branches, a mix of boxwood branches and palm fronds were bundled for blessing.  Palm crosses were made by the Church School and handed out during the dismissal. Thanks to Anna Bouteneff, Fr. Sergei, Cathy Hotova, and Sue & Joe Galich for assembling the boxwood branches and palm fronds on Lazarus Saturday. Click on the more information link below to view several few photos.

On Saturday, April 20th, Sydney May Gartsu was received into the Orthodox Church through the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Chrismation. Congratulations to her parents, Crystal and Jason Gartsu, her godmother, Gretta Lee Cynthia (Gartsu) Flynn, grandparents Elsie and Tom Gartsu, and the extended Gartsu family. Sydney May was churched the following day, on Sunday April 21st.  God grant her Many years! Click onto the more information link below to view a larger photo from the Churching.

On Sunday April 14th (the 4th Sunday of Great Lent, commemorating St. John Climacus (of The Ladder)), St. George welcomed The Right Reverend Nikodhim, Bishop of Boston and the Albanian Archdiocese, who served Divine Liturgy for us. After Divine Liturgy, Bishop Nikodhim joined the parish for it’s Coffee Hour in the church hall. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

St. George wishes to thank Greg Buzi II who on Thursday evening, April 11th, hosted a short prayer service followed by a screening of the movie “Man of God” in the church hall. “Man of God” is a movie about St. Nectarios of Aegina. The movie originally was released in April 2021.
The Storyline from Wikipedia:  Man of God brings to life the incredible true story of Saint Nectarios of Aegina, Greece. A priest of the common people, his humility annoyed the prideful orthodox clergy of the day. In contrast to his religious superiors - the bishops and patriarchs mesmerized by worldly honors and power - Nectarios cared for the poor; taught peasant girls to read and write; inspired by example young men to enter the priesthood; and wrote books and delivered sermons that uplifted nations of believers. In this exquisitely made film, relive Nectarios' inspiring devotion and perseverance as, despite the efforts of the religious establishment to discredit him and dismantle his good works over decades, he embraced humility and inspired thousands to become one of Greece's most renowned saints.

At Divine Liturgy on the third Sunday of Great Lent (April 7th), St. George commemorated the Veneration of the Cross. The Cross is venerated as it stands in the middle of the Church at the middle of Great Lent, reminding us of Christ’s redemption. The Troparian for the day:  O Lord, save Your people, / and bless Your inheritance. / Grant victories to the Orthodox Christians, / over their adversaries. / And by virtue of Your Cross / preserve Your habitation! Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

On Sunday, March 24th, St. George recognized the Sunday of Orthodoxy, (or The Triumph of Orthodoxy) on the 1st Sunday of Great Lent. Our parish celebrates an annual Albanian secular tradition called the “icon auction” or “Konizmat”, which began back in February when parishioners took home some of the church icons they bid on as part of a Stewardship tradition.  On Sunday (for The Triumph of Orthodoxy), the persons who took “their” icon home back in February returned them back to the church during the procession of the Great Entrance. To learn more, click onto the following link:  Konizmat Icon Auction
 
Additionally, at the end of Divine Liturgy, St. George held prayers for the blessing and guidance of the Albanian Archdiocese, along with a  memorial service for all of our departed diocesan hierarchs, and for the priests and priftëresha who served our parishes.  This is a new commemoration inaugurated by Bishop Nikodhim, and will be held annually on the Sunday before the Feast of the Annunciation, which is March 25th each year.  Please click onto the more information link below to view some photos.
 

On Sunday, March 3rd after Divine Liturgy, the Teuta Ladies Society of St. George held its annual luncheon for its members at Vazzy’s in Bridgeport.  This year marks the 93rd year of the Teuta Society’s founding.  The Teuta Ladies continue to be the most important driver of St. George’s fundraising, charitable, and social efforts.  Click onto the more information link below to view several photos from the luncheon. 

The St George community would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Jean Brideau on the passing of her brother, John Rafail, who passed away in Oregon last week. We also extend our condolences to the Galich family on the passing of Joe’s brother, George Galich.  Memory eternal!

Recently, food donations were delivered to a food pantry and two soup kitchens.  Throughout the year, St. George maintains the collection of non-perishable food stuffs, personal hygiene products and household cleaning products. Several times a year, those donations are delivered to one of our local food pantries. Recently a delivery of those donations was made to the Monroe Food Pantry – thanks to Greg Buzi Sr. for making the delivery.  Between November 2023 and early February 2024, St. George’s parishioners collected frozen hams and turkeys to distribute to local soup kitchens during February when donations are historically low.  On Monday, Feb 19th, 20 frozen hams and turkeys were delivered to the Thomas Merton Family Center (Bridgeport) and the Beth-El Center (Milford) who operate soup kitchens.  Thanks go out to Brooke & Sophie Dionis and their mother Nicole, and Fr. Sergei for making the deliveries. Finally, many thanks to our parishioners who support these outreach initiatives, those who purchased and donate all the foods, hygiene products, and cleaning products throughout the year.  Click onto the more information link below to view a larger photo.

The Teuta Ladies sponsored a Lakror Workshop & Social on Saturday, February 10th. Lakror is a taditional Albanian pie typically made with a vegetable filling. A group of 14 women participated. The workshop purpose was to learn how to make lakror or to brush up on techniques, but also to be social and fun. At the end of the baking session, the group had a lunch sampling their creations. Many thanks to Laura Denisevich who organized, purchased the ingredients, and coordinated the event.  Click onto the more information link below to view photos from the day.

On Sunday, February 4th, St. George celebrated the Feast of The Meeting of Our Lord in the Temple (referred to as “Papandia” in Albanian). The feast was transferred from Friday, Feb 2nd.   For our Teuta Ladies Society, this day is their Patronal Feast, with 2024 marking the 93rd year of the Teuta Society’s founding.Traditionally the Teuta Society offers 5 loaves, wheat, wine and oil for the celebration, and grure, (a boiled-wheat confection) for the health of the parish family. Adding to the joy of the occasion was the presence Deacon Eugene & Livia Shkurti. Deacon Eugene joined Fr. Sergei in serving Divine Liturgy. He is in his third and final year of studies at Saint Vladimir’s Seminary in NY.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.
 

On Sunday, January 14th, St. George welcomed The Right Reverend Nikodhim, Bishop of Boston and the Albanian Archdiocese, who served Divine Liturgy for us. This was his first visit to St. George as Bishop. We also welcomed Barry Migyanko, the Diocesan Executive Administrator, who accompanied Bishop Nikodhim.  Finally, the parish of St. George wishes to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Bill Kovachi (and to his family). In a special surprise after Divine Liturgy, Bill was awarded the honor of the Knight of St. George award from Bishop Nikodhim. The Knight of St. George is the “highest honor that can be bestowed upon a layperson in the Archdiocese”, where the recipient is well recognized both for service to their parish as well as the Archdiocese over an extended period of time. May God bless Bill as he continues his Stewardship work for our community.  Click onto the more information link to view several photos. 

The parish of St. George extends our thanks to the many people who helped to make our Christmas services beautiful and meaningful celebrations, and to those who helped support St. George with their dedicated stewardship work over the past year. Click onto the more information link below to view details. 

Click onto the following link to view a Prayer for the New Year.

Christ is born! Glorify Him! & Krishti U-Lind! Lavdërojeni! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Christmas greetings in both English and Albanian.  Additionally, on Sunday, Dec 24th during Divine Liturgy (on the Eve of the Nativity of Christ), St. George joyously witnessed Sally Balis being received into the Orthodox Church.  Many God grant Sally Many years!  Please click onto the more information link below to several few photos.

The St. George Parish Family wishes you a joyous celebration of the Nativity of our Lord.  Christ is Born! Glorify Him!  Krishti U-Lind! Lavdërojeni! Click onto the more information link below to view larger photos of the Community Christmas Card.  We wish to acknowledge a donation from "Brendan and Jane Quinn Family", however we received it after we went to the printer.  

On Saturday, Dec 16th, a group of "St. George Elves" delivered a bag of Christmas Cheer to some of our senior parishioners who are restricted at home or haven't been able to attend church services due to age or health. The gifts were assembled and delivered to help remind these parishioners that they remain in our thoughts and prayers.  The Christmas Cheer bag contained homemade cookies, candies and baked treats, some seasonal teas, a home-made Christmas decoration, a Poinsettia plant, and a handmade card from one of our church school children. Our sincere thanks go out to: Pam Buzi, Sharon Buzi, Laura Chadwick, Laura Coughlin, Diane Cryan, Luba Csernica, Laura Denisevich, Sue Galich, Jennifer Goetz, and Kim O'Brien. We also wish to additionally thank our Church School children who created the holiday cards and Dave Dougiello from Commerce Hill Funeral Home for a generous donation that was used to support this project. Click onto the more information link below to view some photos.

We were saddened to learn that Priscilla Christianson died on Thursday, Dec 7th.  St. George extends our condolences to her husband Daniel, her sister JoAnn Mahoney, and their extended family.  Click onto the following link to view Priscilla's Obituary. Memory Eternal!

On Sunday, Dec 3rd after Divine Liturgy, the parish held its annual St. Nicholas Party during it's Coffee Hour. The Feast day for St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, is commemorated each year on December 6th  This event is held specifically for the parish children, but also for the parish community to gather for fellowship and seasonal joy.  There is a visit from Santa for the children, and all are requested to donate a Christmas gift to donate to local charity drives.  Click on the more information link below to view several photos. 

St. George is extremely saddened to learn of the repose of Prifteresha Elisabeth (Lisa) Bouteneff, beloved wife of Fr. Sergei Bouteneff, on Saturday, November 25th.  Their ministry together faithfully served our parish of Saint George beginning in 1989 for 21 years, and most recently over the past 5 years in their retirement, filling in during our parish priest vacancy. The funeral and burial services were held on Thursday, November 30th at St. George Orthodox Church and at St. John's Cemetery in Monroe. We extend our deepest condolences to the Bouteneff family. Click onto the following link to view an In Memoriam.  May her memory be eternal!

On Saturday, November 25th (the 2nd day after Thanksgiving),  St. George wishes to congratulate Fr. Sergei Bouteneff on the 46th anniversary of his ordination into the Priesthood. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet! to Fr. Sergei, Prifteresha Elisabeth, and his family.
 

Following Divine Liturgy on November 19th, Diane Cryan, the President of the Teuta Society, presented a check of $10,000 from profits of the recent Fall Bazaar to Bill Kovachi, the President of the Parish Council for St. George’s Future Fund.  Diane again thanked everyone for the great teamwork and efforts that had made the annual Bazaar a success. Many Years to the Teuta Society of St. George! Click onto the more information link to view a larger photo.

On Sunday November 12th after Divine Liturgy (the day after Veteran’s Day), St. George recognized our Veterans for their service to our country. Children from our Church School prepared some hand-made Thank-you cards which they gave to the Vets.  Click onto the following link to view the Veteran’s Day Prayer that was read during the recognition.  Click onto the more information link below to view a several photos. Many Years!

On November 8th, the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America, have unanimously decided and decree for the Glorification (or canonization - the official recognition of a person as a saint of the Church) of Matushka Olga of Kwethluk, Alaska. 

Click onto the following links to view a 6 minute Video from His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon. 

St. George held a 40-Day Memorial Service for the Very Reverend Protopresbyter Arthur E. Liolin on Sunday, November 5th after Divine Liturgy. Fr. Arthur was the  former pastor of St. George Albanian Orthodox Cathedral and Chancellor Emeritus of the Albanian Archdiocese in America. Click onto the following link to view an In Memoriam from the OCA:  https://www.oca.org/in-memoriam/protopresbyter-arthur-e-liolin 

St. George held it's annual Fall Bazaar on Saturday, October 28th, it was a successful event on a beautiful warm and sunny day.  A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all who had their hand in assisting with the Bazaar in some way - with organizing, set-up, cooking, baking, donating, working the event, and cleaning up at the end.  The Bazaar featured Ethnic dishes, Take-out meals, Albanian pastries, Take-A-Chance table, and Handcrafted items for sale.  We especially wish to recognize and thank the women of the Teuta Society who are the major driver and effort behind this event.  The Bazaar is St. George's major fundraising event during the calendar year. We unfortunately have not been able to hold a Bazaar the past 3 years due to risks from the COVID pandemic  - so it was rewarding to see it’s return.  Click onto the following link to view the 2023 Bazaar Ad Book - we ask you to review and note the businesses that supported us, and return the gesture by supporting their businesses. On Nov 5th after Divine Liturgy, Diane Cryan, President of the Teuta Society confirmed the success of the Bazaar, thanked everyone who supported it this year, and reported that the proceeds from the Bazaar will net at least $11,200 (there remains some final donations and expenses to finalize, but the final proceeds will at minimum be in that range). Click onto the more information link below to view several photos.

We were saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Bindner on Saturday, October 7th.  St. George extends its condolences to Mary Lazar Bindner and the Lazar family. Memory Eternal!

On Sunday October 1st, after Divine Liturgy, St. George recognized it’s Choir and Readers as part of a national recognition of “Church Musician Sunday”. The Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America has designated the Sunday on or following the commemoration of Saint Romanus the Melodist (October 1st) as “Church Musician Sunday.” Church Musician Sunday highlights the essential role of liturgical music in Orthodox Christian worship and the important role of church musicians in the life of the Church. The Parish Council hosted a coffee hour in honor of the Choir in the Church Hall.  Click onto the more information link below to view 2 photos.

It is with great sadness, but hope in the resurrection that we inform you of the passing of the Very Reverend Protopresbyter Arthur E. Liolin, former pastor of St. George Albanian Orthodox Cathedral and Chancellor Emeritus of the Albanian Archdiocese in America.

Click onto the following link to view an In Memoriam from the OCA. https://www.oca.org/in-memoriam/protopresbyter-arthur-e-liolin   

The Visitation and Funeral were held on Friday and Saturday, Oct 6th & 7th. A video of the Divine Liturgy held on Sat, Oct 7th can be viewed on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/StGeorgeOrthodoxChurch  Thanks to Laura Chadwick for posting the streamed service. 

St. George held a Memorial Service for Fr. Arthur on Sunday, October 1st after Divine Liturgy.  Click onto the more information link below to view a photo. I perjetshem kujtimi! 

St. George welcomed and wishes to thank Fr. David Koles for serving Divine Liturgy for us on Sunday, September 24th. Fr. David is recently retired, and was the former pastor at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in New Britain, CT.  

On Friday, September 15, 2023, the Albanian Orthodox Archdiocese in America held it’s annual Archdiocesan Assembly at St. George Albanian Orthodox Cathedral in Boston.  At that Assembly, the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America canonically elected Archimandrite Nikodhim to Diocesan Bishop of the Albanian Orthodox Archdiocese. 

The next day, on Saturday September 16th at a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy presided by His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon, Archimandrite Nikodhim was consecrated to the episcopacy of the Albanian Orthodox Archdiocese in America.  The consecration was held at St. George Albanian Orthodox Cathedral.

St. George wishes to thank Cathy Hotova and Bob Lazar who represented our parish as delegates to the Assembly on Friday.   Additionally, we thank Laura Coughlin and Karen Masek who attended the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and Ordination on Saturday. Finally, thanks to Pauline Dionis, Curt & Nicole Dionis and their daughters Brooke & Sophie who on Sunday, September 17th attended Bishop Nikodhim’s first service as our Diocesan Bishop.

Click onto the following link to view the OCA News update (photos can be viewed at a link at the bottom of the article:  https://www.oca.org/news/headline-news/episcopal-ordination-of-bishop-nikodhim-as-bishop-of-boston-and-the-albanian-archdiocese

Click onto the following link to view 2 videos from the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZ89Wnj586M  and  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JF2rII0uQJA

Also click onto the more information link below to view a few photos from the Hieracrchical Divine Liturgy and Episcopal Ordination, and from Bishop Nikodhim's 1st Divine Liturgy service as the Archdiocesan Bishop .

We recently learned of the passing of Florence Costoulas.  Florence is the maternal aunt of Bev Dacey. St. George extends our condolences to the Dacey family. Memory Eternal!

Congratulations to Chelsey (O'Brien) and Hans Lugus on the birth of their son, Otto Wallace, born on September 7, 2023. He weighed in at 7lbs 8oz. Proud grandparents are Kim and John O'Brien and Jennifer and Kristjan Lugus.  His great-grandmothers are Toni Barmashi and Mary O'Brien.  Per Shume Vjet! Many Years!

St. George was saddened to learn that Walter Ostrowski passed away on Monday, September 11th.  Walter was the brother-in-law to Jen Goetz. We extend our condolences to the Ostrowski, Goetz, and Lopen families. May his memory be eternal!

The beginning of the 2023 - 2024 Church School Year began on Sunday, Sept 10th.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

The following is a status of some of our young adults currently enrolled in college. We give our best wishes for their continued success!

Erin Galich - is a Senior majoring in Psychology at Central Connecticut State University (New Britain). 
James Goetz - is a Senior attending University of Maryland, majoring in Economics.
Pandora Kerma – is majoring in Photography at CT State Community College (the old Housatonic Community College).  

St. George learned James Karoli passed away on Thursday, August 31st.  We send our condolences to wife, Rachel, his sister Louise Gallagher, and the rest of the Karoli family. Memory Eternal!

St. George held a Parish Picnic after Divine Liturgy on Sunday, August 27th.  The picnic was held outside on the rear yard, and was a fundraiser hosted by the Teuta Ladies Society. Many thanks to all that supported the picnic by cooking and preparing salads and sides of food, managed the grills, set-up and broke down the tents, tables, chairs, and grills, and helped with all the final clean-up.  And finally a thank you to all who supported the event by participating. We would especially like to thank Mary, John, & Maribeth DiIlulio, and Pierre Rhodes (Maribeth's boyfriend and owner of Beyond All Drones).  Pierre took numerous drone photos and put together a unique video of the picnic from above - click onto the following link to view the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dljNnQX_XA8   Click onto the more information link below to view numerous photos from the picnic, several are also from a drone camera.

On Sunday, August 20th, St. George celebrated the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. The celebration of this feast was transferred from Tuesday, August 15th, the normal date it is celebrated. This feast commemorates the repose (dormition) or "falling-asleep" of the Mother of our Lord, Jesus Christ, and also commemorates the assumption into heaven of the body of the Theotokos.  After Divine Liturgy, there was the blessing of fragrant herbs and flowers, which is customary on this feast. St. George wishes to thank Fr. Dennis Rhodes who served Divine Liturgy for us on this day. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

On Saturday, August 19th, Sienna Ann Moras was received into the Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation.  Sunday September 3rd was Sienna's Churching service (presentation in the context of community) during Divine Liturgy.  Many Years!  Për Shumë Vjet!  Click onto the more information link below to look at an enlarged version of the photo.

On Saturday, August 12th, donations of over 50 lbs of frozen hams were made to the Thomas Merton Center (Bridgeport) who operate a meal program. Our thanks go out to Sophie Dionis, her mother Nicole, and to Fr. Sergei for making the delivery.  Also, many thanks to our parishioners who purchased and donated the hams for this charity effort.  Click onto the more information link below to view a larger photo.  

On Sunday, August 6th, St. George celebrated the Feast of the Transfiguration with Divine Liturgy.  After Divine Liturgy, Fr. Sergei, assisted by Deacon Eugene Shkurti, blessed grapes, fruit, and vegetables that is traditional on this feast day.  The blessing of grapes and other fruits and vegetables is an ancient tradition of the Orthodox Church, stretching all the way back to the early church, and is a sign of God's renewal of all creation through Christ. Afterwards, parishioners shared their blessed fruits or vegetables at coffee hour. Click onto the more information link below to view some photos.

Below are the prayers that were offered during the blessing of fruits and vegetables:

Prayer at the partaking of grapes on the sixth day of August:
Bless, O Lord, this new fruit of the vine, which, through temperate weather, through showers of rain and times of calm, has attained to ripeness at this hour, according to Thy good pleasure.  May our partaking of this birth of the vine be for gladness, and for the offering of a gift unto Thee for the cleansing of sins, through the sacred and holy Body of Thy Christ, with whom thou art blessed, together with thy most holy, good, and life-giving Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages.  Amen.

Prayer for those who offer first fruits:
O Master, Lord our God, who commandest everyone to offer to Thee thine own of thine own, according to their intention, granting them in return thine eternal good things, and who didst favourably accept the offering of the widow which was according to her ability: now also accept these things offered by Thy servants [here present], counting them worthy to lay up the same in thine eternal treasury.  And grant them an abundant harvest of thine eternal good things, together with all things that are profitable unto them.  For blessed is Thy Name, and glorified is Thy kingdom: of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages.  Amen.

We congratulate the following young adults who are receiving scholarships for the 2023-2024 school year from the Thomas and Katherine LaBache Scholarship Fund:

Erin Galich
James Goetz

We thank the members of the Teuta Ladies’ Society for their donation of $5,000.00 to St. George’s Future Fund.  The Teuta Society is a major contributor to St. George, organizing numerous social and fundraising events.  Many years to the Teuta Ladies Society!

We were saddened to learn that Irene Billings passed away in her sleep on Thursday morning, July 20th.  St. George offers it’s condolences to her children Peter, April, and Christopher, “surrogate” daughter Donna Mladina, her grandchildren Alexa, Katrina, and Peter, Jr., her brothers James and Theodore Petro, and to her extended family. May her memory be eternal!

St. George was pleased to host Deacon Eugene & Livia Shkurti during their visit to St. George on Sunday, July 9th.  Deacon Eugene assisted serving Divine Liturgy with Fr. Sergei. He has completed his second year of studies at Saint Vladimir’s Seminary and is taking an intense program of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) this summer. His visits are part of his parish internship. Deacon Eugene will be visiting with us periodically in the future as his schedule permits. The photo to the left is of Deacon Eugene reading the Gospel lesson of the day. 

We wish to congratulate Nikollaq Tollkuci who recently became a US citizen. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet! 

St. George welcomed and thanked Fr. Dennis Rhodes for serving Divine Liturgy for us on Sunday, July 2nd.  Fr. Dennis was our parish priest from 2010 through 2018, afterwhich he retired after serving 40 years as a priest.  

St. George recognized Fathers’s Day on Sunday, June 18th during Divine Liturgy.  Prayers were offered for all of the living and departed fathers, stepfathers, sons, stepsons, husbands, brothers, stepbrothers, great grandfathers, great grandsons, grandfathers, grandsons, great-uncles, uncles, nephews, godfathers, and all those who "fathered" us in our time of need. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi! for our departed fathers, and Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet! for those living fathers.

St. George congratulates Lluiza Tollkuci who recently became a US citizen. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet! 

Congratulations to the Students and Teachers of our Church School as they completed their 2022-2023 academic year.  After Divine Liturgy on Sunday, June 11th, we marked the end of the Church School year with a short recognition ceremony.  Specific thanks go out to first to our students and their parents for their attendance; to Curt Dionis our Church School Coordinator; to Pauline Dionis who is our Church School “Superintendent” or lead teacher; to our Assistant Teachers: Nicole Dionis, Greg Buzi, Haley Dionis and Lauren Dionis; to Louise Gallagher and Bob Lazar for their assistance with candles and icon organization and support of the children’s procession during the Great Entrance; to Sue & Joe Galich, Melissa Galich, and Erin Galich for their work organizing the St. Nicholas Christmas Party and our Easter Egg Hunt after Pascha; and to Fr. Sergei Bouteneff for his weekly meetings with the students before Church School instruction.  Click onto the more information link to view 3 photos.

God bless and Many Years to Elizabeth (“Lizzie”) Post Dacey, to her parents Alexis & Peter Dacey, to grandmother Bev Dacey, and to her sponsers Blaise & Marica Ancona on her recent "churching" (her presentation to the church community) on Sunday, June 4th (which was the Feast of Pentecost - looked at as the birth of the Church).

Lizzie was received into the Orthodox Church through the Sacraments of Baptism and Chrismation on May 6th.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.   
 

On Sunday, May 28th, St. George recognized Memorial Day by praying for all of our deceased military veterans from the parish family. Memorial Day is a holiday that was established to officially remember those who have died in service to our country (Veterans Day was established to officially thank our living veterans).  St. George has had only one parishioner, Michael J. Vani, who died during his military service (during World War II).  St. George expanded our remembrance to include all the deceased veterans of our “parish family”, adding relatives of our parish family that served in the military and are now deceased. The living military veterans participated during the Memorial Service by standing in vigil.  Prayers were said for 103 deceased veterans - click onto the following to view the list of names: St George - Names of Deceased Military Veterans  Memory Eternal!  Please click onto the more information link below to view a larger photo from the service.

On Sunday, May 21st after Divine Liturgy, the Teuta Ladies Society of St. George held a luncheon for its members at Casa Nova Restaurant in Shelton. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

On Sunday, May 14th, St. George was blessed and excited to welcome The Right Reverend Archimandrite Nikodhim, Bishop-elect of Boston and the Albanian Archdiocese. Fr.  Nikodhim is presently the Administrator of the Albanian Archdiocese, and is scheduled for his episcopal ordination in September 2023.  Additionally we welcomed the newly ordained Deacon Juxhin (Eugene) and his wife Livia Shkurti. Deacon Juxhin is our Archdiocesan Seminarian currently finishing his 2nd year of studies at St. Vladmir’s Seminary. Coincidentally, May 14th was Mother’s Day, and prayers were said for all of our departed and living mothers from our parish. After Divine Liturgy, a special Coffee Hour was held to welcome our visitors and congratulate all of our mothers on Mother’s Day.  Click onto the more information link below to view several photos.

On Saturday, May 6th,  Elizabeth ("Lizzie") Post Dacey was received in to the Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. Lizzie is the daughter of Alexis & Peter Dacey. Many Years!

On Sunday, April 30th, the parish welcomed Fr. John & Matushka Denise Jillions to St. George.  Fr. John served Divine Liturgy for us in Fr. Sergei's absence. Many in the parish were able to greet Fr. John & Matushka Denise at coffee hour after Divine Liturgy. Fr. John is recently retired after serving as the pastor at Holy Ghost Church in Bridgeport, and was also a former Chancellor of the Orthodox Church in America. 

On Tuesday, April 25th, the Holy Synod canonically elected Archimandrite Nikodhim as Bishop of Boston and the Albanian Archdiocese.

Click onto the following link to view the OCA announcement.

Click onto the following link to view a few Photos.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the many people who helped to make Lent, Holy Week and Pascha beautiful and meaningful celebrations.

Thank you to Zoe Michael, Diana Michael, Karen Masek & Laura Coughlin for their donation of flowers for the Petafi in memory of Father Llambi & Priftresha Dhoxhi Michael and family.

Thanks to Louise Gallagher and Bill Kovachi for their donation of Prayer Plants and Easter Lillies for the Altar.

Thank you to Pauline Dionis who decorated the Cross for the Petafi, and to the ‘Myrrh-bearing Women” who decorated the Petafi: Jean Brideau, Laura Coughlin, Diane Cryan, Laura Denisevich, Mary DiIulio, Pauline Dionis, Louise Karoli Gallagher, and Dolores Nauchy.

A special thanks to Diane Cryan, Laura Denisevich, Louise Karoli Gallagher, Elsie Gartsu, and Kim O’Brien for donating the dyed Pascha Eggs.

Thanks to Jennifer Goetz for decorating the Church for Holy Pascha.

To Curt, Nicole, Brooke & Sophie Dionis for filling the plastic eggs with candy, and to Sue, Melissa, and Erin Galich, Madeline Leighton, and Nicole, Brooke & Sophie Dionis for preparing and organizing the successful Children’s Easter Egg Hunt after the Paschal Vesper service.  Also thanks to all the parishioners who made donations of candy which was needed to fill the plastic eggs. 

Fr. Sergei Bouteneff who served all the Lenten, Holy Week and Paschal services for us, and for continuing to assist us, and serve all the Liturgies at St. George.

Luba Csernica and Cathy Hotova for the live-streaming of services.

Cantors Peter Dacey and Charles Soter for their dedication and reading at all the services.

Thanks to Louise Gallager and Bob Lazar who faithfully change the table cloths when required by feast or church season.  And thanks to Louise who also irons and prepares all the table cloths ahead of time so they are ready to be switched out.  

The Choir and Karen Masek for their singing on Palm Sunday, the Holy Wednesday Matins with Unction service, the Holy Thursday Matins with Passion Gospel Readings, the Holy Friday Matins with Lamentations, and the midnight Paschal Liturgy. 

All of our volunteer readers who helped during all of the Holy Week services. 

Louise Gallagher and Cathy Hotova for all their efforts with the coffee hour set-up each Sunday.

Bob Lazar for his assistance in the sanctuary – he faithfully helps at all services.

To the Altar Servers for their time and assistance.

And to all those who came to pray and celebrate the services. 

The St. George community recently completed the service cycle of Great Lent and Holy Week to Holy Pascha, with the celebration of the Midnight Paschal Liturgy on April 16th.  Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!  Krishti U-Ngjall! Vërtet U-Ngjall! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Paschal greetings in both English and Albanian.  Click Here to view the Paschal greeting in numerous languages. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

St. George completed services for Good Friday with the afternoon Vespers Service of Taking down from the Cross, and the Friday evening Matins service for Great and Holy Saturday, with the Praises (or Lamentations) at the Tomb of Christ.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos from the services.
 

On Thursday evening, April 13th, St. George continued its cycle of services for Holy Week with the Matins service of Great and Holy Friday with the Twelve Gospel readings. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

On April 9th, St. George celebrated Palm Sunday, which marks the Entrance of the Lord into Jerusalem. After Divine Liturgy, there was a procession of palms lead by some members of the Church School, and the blessing of the palms which were held high by the parishioners.  This year, due to difficulty acquiring pussy willow branches, a mix of pussy willow branches, boxwood branches, and palm fronds were bundled for blessing.  Thanks to Donna Kerma for providing the pussy willows. Click on the more information link below to view a few photos.

St George was saddened to learn that Nancy Peters passed away on March 23rd “after a prolonged illness”.  We offer our condolences to her family. Memory eternal!

St. George welcomed and thanked Fr. John Jillions who served Divine Liturgy on Sunday, March 12th for us in Fr. Sergei's absence.  Fr. John is recently retired after serving as the pastor at Holy Ghost Church in Bridgeport, and was also a former Chancellor of the Orthodox Church in America. 

From February 19th through March 5th, the St. George parish dedicated its weekly charity collections to support the relief efforts from the February 6th earthquake in Turkey and Syria.  St. George was able to collect $2,600.00 and forwarded those funds to the IOCC (International Orthodox Christian Charities), an international humanitarian aid agency who will be coordinating relief efforts to their regional partners.  We thank the many for their generosity to assist in helping with this humanitarian crisis.  

On Sunday, March 5th, after Divine Liturgy on the Sunday of Orthodoxy, some of the children tied this bracelet on their right hand. They will keep it on until Paschal Vespers, when they cut it off, and place it on the bushes for the birds. Veror is an Albanian folk spring-time tradition - whose origin is clouded in time - there was the practice of children wearing string bracelets for a period of time, bracelets that they would cut off and throw on the bushes so that the birds would take them for their nesting material. In our parish, this folk custom was integrated into the church as a Lenten effort/reminder during Great Lent. Some of the adults of the parish wear this bracelet in solidarity with the children. The bracelets are crocheted with red and white yarn - a reminder of the nature of Christ: both God and man.  Thanks go out to Lluiza Tollkuci who made the red & white bracelet material this year.

On Sunday, Feb 26th, St. George learned of the passing of Vangjo “Petri” Kostandini.  We extend our condolences to Vanjgo’s wife Lirika, his sons Redi and Teodor, his brother and sister-in-law Koli & Lluiza Tollkuci, and his extended family. May his memory be eternal!

From November 2022 through early February 2023, St. George’s parishioners collected frozen hams and turkeys as a charity project with the goal of distributing them to local soup kitchens when food donations are historically low.  On Tuesday, Feb 21st, those donations were made to the Thomas Merton Center (Bridgeport) who operate a meal program, and to the Beth-El Center (Milford) who operate a soup kitchen. Our thanks go out to Brooke & Sophie Dionis, their grandmother Pauline Dionis, and to Fr. Sergei for making the deliveries.  Also, many thanks to our parishioners who purchased and donated the foods for this charity effort.  Click onto the more information link below to view 2 photos.  

St. George was saddened to learn that Krisanthi Peters passed away on Wednesday, Feb 8th. Krisanthi, who was 101 years old, was our oldest parishioner. We extend our condolences to her sons, Kenneth and Gregory, and their families. Memory Eternal!

We congratulate the members of the Teuta Ladies’ Society on their celebration of their Patronal Feast Day, the Meeting of the Lord - "Papandia".  (The celebration of Feast of the Meeting of the Lord was transferred this year from February 2nd to February 5th.)

This year, as in years past, the ladies present were called to stand vigil in prayer around their offerings of bread, wheat, wine and oil, and a boiled wheat-sugar-nut confection (called grure in Albanian) for the health of the parish family.

The Teuta Ladies, who recently celebrated their 90th anniversary, were also recognized and thanked by the parish for all their support to St. George by singing God Grant you Many Years.

Click onto the more information link below to view a photo. 

Congratulations go out to Christopher and Gina Buzi who celebrated the birth of their daughter Elira Joy Buzi on Tuesday, January 24th. She weighed in at 7.1lbs and was 21 inches long.  Congratulations also go out to the grandparents: Greg and Sharon Buzi. 

On Sunday, January 15th, St. George celebrated the 90th anniversary of the Teuta Society with prayers after Divine Liturgy and at our coffee hour. Click onto the more information link to read a short history summary of the founding of the Teuta Society along with a few photos.

St. George was saddened to learn that Shirley Jordan passed away Saturday morning, Jan 14, 2023. We extend our condolences to Shirley’s daughters, Beth Veneri and Susan Batura, and to their families. Memory Eternal!

The parish of St. George extends our heartfelt thanks to the many people who helped to make our Christmas services beautiful and meaningful celebrations, and to those who helped support St. George with their dedicated stewardship work over the past year. Click onto the more information link below to view the details.

Unfortuantely due to illness, Divine Liturgy was not held for the Feast of Theophany on Sunday, January 8th (transferred from Fri, Jan 6th).  In a protective mask, Fr. Sergei did conduct the service for the Great Blessing of Water.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

Congratulations to Alexis and Peter Dacey who were blessed with the successful arrival of Elizabeth Post Dacey. She was born on December 30th, 2022, weighing 7lbs 2oz and a length of 20.5 inches.

On December 30, 2022, Chelsey O’Brien was married to Hans Lugus in Narragansett, RI. We wish them many happy and healthy years!

Click onto the following link to download and view a Prayer for the New Year

Christ is born! Glorify Him!   Krishti U-Lind! Lavdërojeni! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Christmas greetings in both English and Albanian.  On the Eve of the Nativity of Christ, the St. George community celebrated with a Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil for the feast of the Nativity of the Lord.

The St. George Parish Family wishes you a joyous celebration of the Nativity of our Lord.  Christ is Born! Glorify Him!  Click onto the more information link below to view the inside of the Community Christmas Card.

St. George wishes to thank Dave Denisevich who built and stained oak frames along with mounting the two icons St. George received as gifts from the former Nativity of the Holy Virgin Mary Church in Waterbury, CT.  The icons, which are of the Mystical celebration of Communion in heaven with Christ as the main celebrant, were mounted in the Altar (their traditional location). The Parish Council appointed a committee of three, Dave Denisevich, Bob Lazar, and Nardi Tollkuci, to oversee the project from beginning to the end. Again, we wish to thank the parish of the Nativity of the Holy Virgin Mary Church for these gifts. Additional thank you's to Joe Galich, Bob Lazar, and Tim Coughlin who helped with the mounting. Click onto the more information link below to learn more and view a few photos.

On Sunday, Dec 11th after Divine Liturgy, a group of "St. George Elves" delivered a bag of Christmas Cheer and a Poinsettia plant to some of our senior parishioners who are restricted at home or haven't been able to attend church services due to age or health. The gifts were assembled and delivered to help remind these parishioners that they remain in our thoughts and prayers.  The Christmas Cheer bag contained homemade cookies and treats, some seasonal teas, an icon of St. Nicholas, a decorative cross, a handmade card from one of our church school children, and a 2023 Church calendar.  Our sincere thanks go out to: Sharon Buzi, Laura Chadwick, Laura Coughlin, Diane Cryan, Luba Csernica, Laura Denisevich, Sue Galich, Jennifer Goetz, Karen Masek, and Kim O'Brien. We also wish to thank our Church School children who created the holiday cards. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

On Sunday, Dec 4th after Divine Liturgy, the parish held its St. Nicholas Party during it's Coffee Hour.   This event is held specifically for the parish children, but also for the parish community to gather for fellowship and seasonal joy.  There is a visit from Santa for the children, and all are requested to donate a Christmas gift to donate to local charity drives.  Click on the more information link below to view a few photos. 

On Monday evening, November 28th, as an outreach to the young women and men of our parish, a few members from the Choir gathered in the church hall to make up care packages of cereal, snacks, cookies, hot cocoa mix, and candy for our collegians as they approach their semester final exams.  Click onto the more information link below to view 2 photos.

On Friday, November 25th (the day after Thanksgiving),  St. George wishes to congratulate Fr. Sergei Bouteneff on the 45th anniversary of his ordination into the Priesthood. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet! to Fr. Sergei, Prifteresha Elisabeth, and his family.

St. George celebrated the feast of the Entrance of the Virgin Mary into the Temple on Sunday, November 20th (this feast was transferred from Nov 21st, the date it is normally celebrated).  After Divine Liturgy, the church school children particpated in a procession with an icon of the feast.  

The Troparion of this feast is: Today is the prelude of the good will of God, / of the preaching of the salvation of mankind. / The Virgin appears in the temple of God, / in anticipation proclaiming Christ to all. / Let us rejoice / and sing to her: / "Rejoice, O Fulfillment of the Creator's dispensation.

Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

On Sunday, November 20th, Aida (Kalapo) and Kreshink (Niko) Corbaxhi welcomed their second child, a daughter, Valentina. She is welcomed into the family by big brother, Kristo, and grandparents Vasil and Qeti Kalapo. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

Released November 17, 2022:  Below please find is a press release with regard to the recent elevation of Fr. Nikodhim to Archimandrite and appointment as Administrator of the Albanian Archdiocese as well as the designation of Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania as the new locum tenens for the Albanian Archdiocese.   

Holy Synod confirms Episcopal nomination of Father Nikodhim
 
“The Holy Synod, at its recent regular fall 2022 session, has received this nomination with joy and looks forward to your ordination to the episcopacy, by the grace of God, next fall. In all ways therefore it is clear that you have already proved yourself able to be an archimandrites: a ruler of the sheepfold. Today the holy Synod recognizes this fact by honoring you with the title Archimandrite.”
 
Concluding the meetings of the Holy Synod and celebrating the tenth anniversary of his own service as Metropolitan of the Orthodox Church in America, His Beatitude, Metropolitan Tikhon, addressed Fr. Nikodhim with the above words at last Sunday’s Divine Liturgy. From the heart of the monastery Church of St. Tikhon’s and with his brother hierarchs surrounding him, he admonished the newly elevated archimandrite to continue in his service to the faithful of the Albanian Orthodox Archdiocese. By decision of the Holy Synod, Fr. Nikodhim was named administrator of the same.
 
During their time together, the Synod also designated Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania as the new locum tenens for the Albanian Archdiocese. With his long experience in both Byzantine and Slavic service practices and a pronounced talent for shoring up the administrative needs of his own diocese, Abp. Mark embraced this new obligation, promising his care and guidance to the clergy and faithful of this diocesan family.
 
To Archbishop Mark, locum tenens of the Albanian Archdiocese, and to Fr. Nikodhim, its new administrator, many years! Për shumë vjet!

Click onto the more information link below to view a larger photo of Fr. Nikodhim and Metropolitan Tikhon (photo on the upper-left)
 

On Sunday, November 13th, St. George recognized our Veterans for their service to our country after Divine Liturgy. Children from our Church School prepared some hand-made Thank you cards which they handed out to the Vets.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. Many Years!

St. George was joyed to hear of the birth of Sydney May Gartsu on November 2nd to Crystal and Jason Gartsu., She weighed in at 7 lbs 1 ounce and was 20 inches long. Our congratulations also go out to the happy grandparents Tom and Elsie Gartsu.  Many years!

St. George was saddened to learn that Carmen Costa passed away on Wednesday, Oct 12th.  We extend our condolences to her husband George, sister-in-law Mary DiIulio and her husband John, and their families. Memory Eternal!

On Sunday, October 2nd after Divine Liturgy, Saint George recognized our Choir and Readers as part of the commemoration of “Church Musician Sunday:”

The Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America recently designated the Sunday following the commemoration of Saint Romanus the Melodist (October 1st) as “Church Musician Sunday.” This new yearly designation will highlight the essential role of liturgical music in Orthodox Christian worship and the important role of church musicians in the life of the Church.  On this day, parishes are encouraged to recognize those who serve in the various roles involved in Church music: choir directors, singers, chanters, readers, composers, arrangers, and bell-ringers, through a public acknowledgment following the Divine Liturgy.

The photo on the left is an icon located at St. George on the rear (or north-side) wall of the choir -  it is the Icon of the Feast of the Protection of the Most-Holy Theotokos.  The St. George icon shows the Theotokos standing above the faithful with her arms outstretched in prayer, but below the Theotokos, in the center of the icon, stands Saint Romanus the Melodist, the famous hymnographer whose feast is also celebrated on the same day. On the lower left corner of the icon is his choir. 

Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.
 

It was our joy to receive Alexandra Illyria Michael through the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Chrismation on Saturday, October 1st.   Congratulations to her parents Jonathan Lambi and Sanja (Gerskovic) Michael (in the photo with Alexandra on the left), her sponsors Kelly Marie Coughlin and Leon Gerskovic, grandmother Diana Michael, and aunt and uncle Laura & Tim Coughlin. Alexandra was churched the following day, on Sunday October 2nd. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.
 

St. George was deeply saddened to learn that Fr. Dennis Rhodes's son, Jonathan, died yesterday (Friday, Sept 30th) at the age of 39.  The parish of St. George sends our prayers and condolences to Fr. Dennis and his family. For those looking to mail their condolences directly, Fr Dennis's address is: 48 North School Lane, Souderton, PA 18964-1100. May Jonathan's memory be eternal!

AXIOS!  I VYER!  HE IS WORTHY!

Fr. Nikodhim (Preston) was selected to be the candidate of choice to fill the vacant See of Boston and the Albanian Archdiocese at the Special Albanian Archdiocesan Assembly of 2022. held at the Saint Nicholas Albanian Orthodox Church (Jamaica Estates, NY), The vacancy caused by the untimely death of Archbishop NIKON, of thrice blessed memory.  Representing Saint George at this historic event were Bill Kovachi, Cathy Hotova, and Bob Lazar, with Peter Dacey as alternate.  Father Nikodhim"s name will be submitted shortly to the Holy Synod for their final approval and confirmation.  After that point, the Archdiocese, together Metropolitan TIKHON and the rest of the Holy Synod, will begin to plan for the Episcopal Consecration and Enthronement of Fr.Nikodhim as the Bishop for the Albanian Orthodox Archdiocese in America.  Per shume vjet!  Many years!  Fr. Nikodhim

Click onto the following attachment to view a summary of Fr. Nikodhim's career, qualifications, and education:  Fr. Nikodhim Preston CV

Click onto the more information link below to view a larger photo of Fr. Nikodhim and Metropolitan Tikhon (the photo on the left).

On Sunday, September 18th, after Divine Liturgy, St George celebrated with a Procession of the Cross for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross (celebrated on Sept 14th) so the Church school children could participate (Sept 14th was a school day). Click onto the following links to view short videos of the Procession of the Cross and Prostrations before the Cross.

Procession of the Cross:  https://www.youtube.com/shorts/MwrAk1Pthf4

Prostrations before the Cross: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVQJXiG8Qeo

St. George was saddened to learn that one of our former parishioners, Esther Darling, passed away Sunday morning, September 18th.  We extend our condolences to her children Kathy and Karen, sister and brother-in-law Mary and John DiIulio, brother George (Carmen) Costa, and their families. Memory Eternal!

St. George celebrated the feast of the Exaltation of the Cross (also known as the Elevation of the Cross) with Divine Liturgy on Wednesday, September 14th.  This feast day commemorates the finding of Christ’s Cross by Saint Helen, the mother of the Emperor Constantine in the fourth century.  The procession with the cross around the church was held on Sunday when the children of the parish were out of school and able to participate in the procession.
 
The Troparion for this feast day:  O Lord, save Your people, / and bless Your inheritance. / Grant victories to the Orthodox Christians / over their adversaries. / And by virtue of Your Cross, / preserve Your habitation.

St. George held a Parish Picnic after Divine Liturgy on Sunday, September 11th.  The picnic was held outside on the rear yard, and was a fundraiser hosted by the Teuta Ladies Society and the Parish Council. The picnic was successful both socially and financially, having raised over $1,600. Click onto the more information link below to view several photos.

St. George was saddened to learn that Julia Pikulik passed away on Saturday, Sept 10th. St. George extends its condolences to Julia's son Mark, daughter-in-law Janet, and granddaughter Katherine. May her memory be eternal!

On Thursday, September 8th, St. George celebrated Divine Liturgy for the feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos.  This feast commemorates the birth of the Mother of Jesus Christ, and is celebrated on September 8th each year. 

The Troparion for this feast:  Your Nativity, O Virgin, / Has proclaimed joy to the whole universe! / The Sun of Righteousness, Christ our God, / Has shone from You, O Theotokos! / By annulling the curse, / He bestowed a blessing. / By destroying death, He has granted us eternal Life.

St. George was saddened to learn that on Tuesday morning, September 6th, His Beatitude Metropolitan Herman, former Archbishop of Washington, and Metropolitan of All-America and Canada, fell asleep in the Lord.

Metropolitan Herman was the past spiritual leader of the Orthodox Church in America from 2002 until his retirement in 2008. 

Please click onto the following link to view an In Memoriam from the OCA:   https://www.oca.org/in-memoriam/his-beatitude-metropolitan-herman

May his memory be eternal!

With love we remember Archbishop Nikon, whose third year anniversary of death falls on September 1st. Memory Eternal!

We wish to announce and welcome two new members to our parish family this year:  Lorraine Vangel and Thanassi Lazos (Susan Pando Lazos husband). Please congratulate and welcome them when you next greet them. God grant them “Many Years!”

We would like to thank Kristen Youngberg and Jennifer Soter for donating the "new" refrigerator in the church hall kitchen. It was much needed!

We are also very grateful to Charley & Joann Soter and Dave Denisevich for having the refrigerator moved to and set-up at St. George.

Congratulations and best wishes to George Goetz who recently completed his graduate studies receiving a Master of Science degree in Accounting from Penn State.  
 
The following is a status of some of our young adults currently enrolled in college. We give our best wishes for their continued success!
John Babich – is a Senior attending the University of Maryland majoring in Biology, with a pre-med track.  
Philip Caliendo - is a Junior attending Catholic University of America (Washington, DC), majoring in Finance.
Erin Galich - is a Junior studying Psychology at Central Connecticut State University (New Britain). 
James Goetz - is a Junior attending University of Maryland, studying Business.   
Pandora Kerma – is a Sophomore at Housatonic Community College  

On Monday, August 15th, St. George celebrated Divine Liturgy for the great feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos.  This feast commemorates the repose (dormition) or "falling-asleep" of the Virgin Mary. 

The Troparion for this feast: In giving birth you preserved your virginity, / In falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos. / You were translated to life, O Mother of Life, / And by your prayers, you deliver our souls from death. 

After Divine Liturgy, there was the blessing of fragrant herbs and flowers, which is customary for this feast. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

St. George celebrated the Feast of the Transfiguration on Sunday, August 7th.  (This feast normally falls on August 6th, however this year St. George transferred the celebration of this feast day to Sunday, August 7th). As is common practice in the Orthodox Church, grapes and other fruits (and vegetables) were blessed after Divine Liturgy.

The Troparion for this feast:  You were transfigured on the mountain, O Christ God, / revealing Your glory to Your disciples as far as they could bear it. / Let Your everlasting Light also shine upon us sinners, / through the prayers of the Theotokos. / O Giver of Light, glory to You!

Click onto the more information link below to view 3 photos.

St. George celebrated the Feast of the Procession of the Life-Giving Cross on Sunday, July 31st with a procession of the Cross around the church after Divine Liturgy.  (This feast was transferred this year from its normal commemoration date of August 1st). The origin of this feast is explained from the following:  “Because of the illnesses which occur during the month of August, it was customary at Constantinople to carry the Precious Wood of the Cross in procession throughout the city for its sanctification, and to deliver it from sickness.”  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

Congratulations to the following collegians who were named the 2022 Scholarship recipients of the Thomas & Katherine LaBache Fund:

Erin Galich  - a Junior at Central Connecticut State University
James M. Goetz  - a Junior at the University of Maryland
Pandora Kerma – a Sophomore at Housatonic Community College

The St. George parish offers best wishes for a successful year!
 

On Sunday, July 24th, we welcomed Fr. Gregory Buzi who is visiting with his family and joined us for Divine Liturgy. Fr. Gregory has been at Holy Cross Monastery in Wayne, WV the past 5 years, being tonsured there in August 2020.  Thanks to the Buzi family who hosted the Coffee Hour where parishioners were able to greet Fr. Gregory.  Click onto the more information link below to view several photos.

On Monday, July 11th, a small delegation from St. George welcomed Father John Hopko and Reader John Paul Szepel who brought us two icons and two hand crosses from the former Nativity of the Holy Virgin Mary Church (Saint Mary's) in Waterbury, CT.  Together we celebrated a short prayer service of Thanksgiving to God for these magnificent gifts. The icons will be on display for the next several weeks so the parishioners might see them more closely before being mounted in the altar/sanctuary - their traditional location. The crosses will also be on display: one is destined for the altar, the second will be used for all of the major processions of the Holy Cross during the calendar year.  Click on the more information link below to view a few photos.
 

St. George was saddened to learn of the death of Nancy Yapo Hurd on Monday, June 27th.  The St. George parish expresses our condolences to her husband Wally, their 2 sons Wally and Robert, and their families. 

After 2 years of postponements due to the COVID pandemic, the Teuta Ladies Society was able to hold their annual luncheon on Sunday afternoon, June 26th, at Ralph 'n' Rich's restaurant.  The Teuta Ladies continue to be a important driver of fundraising, charitable, and social efforts at St. George.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos from the luncheon.

On Sunday, June 26th, we commemorated All Saints of America.  Uniquely special for this day, located at the center table, Fr. Sergei brought in his icon of Saint Herman containing his relics. Saint Herman’s relics are enshrined in a small reliquary at his feet (at the bottom of the icon). Click onto the more information link below to view a larger photo and read additional information about the icon.

St. George recognized Fathers’s Day on Sunday, June 19th during Divine Liturgy.  Prayers were offered for all of the living and departed fathers, stepfathers, sons, stepsons, husbands, brothers, stepbrothers, great grandfathers, great grandsons, grandfathers, grandsons, great-uncles, uncles, nephews, godfathers, and all those who "fathered" us in our time of need. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet! Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

St. George celebrated the Feast of Pentecost on Sunday, June 12th with Divine Liturgy immediately followed by the Kneeling Vespers. The Feast commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit and is also seen as the culmination of the revelation of the Holy Trinity. 

The Troparian for Pentecost:  Blessed art You O Christ Our God / You have revealed the fishermen as most wise / By sending down upon them the Holy Spirit / Through them You drew the world into Your net / O Lover of Man, Glory to You!

It was our joy to receive Saylor Mae Davis through the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Chrismation on June 11th. Her proud parents Sarah and Brian gave her the patron: Saint Nicholas, the Archbishop of Myra in Lycea. Saylor’s sponsors were Kristin Freeman and Andrew Kim. Sharing the joy is big sister River Madison, grandparents John and Kim O'Brien, and great-grandmother Toni Barmashi.  Click onto the more information link below to view 2 photos from the Churching service on the Sunday of Pentecost.

At Divine Liturgy on Thursday, June 2nd, St. George celebrated The Feast of the Ascension of our Lord, which is celebrated each year on the fortieth day after the Great and Holy Feast of Pascha (Easter). 
 
The Troparian for this feast day:  O Christ God, You have ascended in Glory, / Granting joy to Your disciples by the promise of the Holy Spirit. / Through the blessing they were assured / That You are the Son of God, / The Redeemer of the world!

Congratulations to our 2022 Graduates who recently completed their studies and graduated. We extend our best wishes to them for continued success!
 
College: 
Jackie Goetz -  graduated with a Master of Science in Forensic Science from the University of New Haven.
Owen Wight – graduated from UConn with a BS in Engineering with a degree in Computer Science & Engineering, and a concentration of Cybersecurity.

On Sunday, May 29th, St. George recognized Memorial Day by praying for all of our deceased military veterans from the parish family. Memorial Day is a holiday that was established to officially remember those who have died in service to our country (Veterans Day was established to officially thank our living veterans).  St. George has had only one parishioner, Michael J. Vani, who died during his military service (during World War II).  St. George expanded our remembrance to include all the deceased veterans of our “parish family”, adding relatives of our parish family that served in the military and are now deceased. The living military veterans participated during the Memorial Service by standing in honor of their memory.  Prayers were said for 102 deceased veterans - click onto the following to view the list of names: St George - Names of Deceased Military Veterans   Memory Eternal!  Please click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

St. George was saddened to learn that Anthony Jordhamo died on Tuesday, May 24th. Anthony was predeceased by a brother Bill. We offer our condolences to his sister and brother, Vi Bowe and Harry Jordhamo, and to the extended Jordhamo and Bowe families.

St. George learned that Andrew Peters died on Tuesday, May 17th. Andrew was pre-deceased by his brother William. St. George offers our condolences to his sisters Millie Miller and Carol Peters, and to their extended families.

St. George was saddened to learn that Helen Reh passed away on Wednesday morning, May 11th. Helen was predeceased by her husband Jack and daughter Dawn Fleming. We extend our condolences to her children Gail Patrignelli (Bob), Jack Reh, Jr. (Carol), and Donna Sharpe (Ben), and to all her extended family.  May her Memory be Eternal!

St. George recognized Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 8th (which we also coincedentlly commemorated the Myrrhbearing Women) during Divine Liturgy.  Prayers were offered for all of the living and departed mothers, stepmothers, daughters, stepdaughters, wives, sisters, stepsisters, great grandmothers, great granddaughters, grandmothers, granddaughters, great-aunts, aunts, nieces, godmothers, and all those who "mothered" us in our time of need.  Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!   Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.
 

The parish of St. George extends our heartfelt thanks to the many people who helped to make our Lenten, Holy Week and Pascha services beautiful and meaningful celebrations, and to those who helped support St. George with their dedicated stewardship work over the past year. Click onto the more information link below to view the details.

The St. George community recently completed the service cycle of Great Lent and Holy Week to Holy Pascha, with the celebration of the Midnight Paschal Liturgy on April 24th.  Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!  Krishti U-Ngjall! Vërtet U-Ngjall! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Paschal greetings in both English and Albanian. Click Here to view the Paschal greeting in numerous languages.  Finally, click onto the more information link below to view some photos from the Paschal Divine Liturgy service, and from the Paschal Vespers and Children's Egg Hunt.

St. George completed services held on Holy Friday with the Vespers Service of Taking down from the Cross, and the Friday evening Matins service for Great and Holy Saturday, with the Praises (or Lamentations) at the Tomb of Christ.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos from the evening Matins service

Continuing with the daily cycle of services for Holy Week, on April 21st, services held for Great and Holy Thursday included Divine Liturgy of the Last Supper, and on Thursday evening the Matins service of Great and Holy Friday with the reading of the Twelve Gospel Lessons. Click on the more information link to view a few photos from the Matins service.

On April 17th, St. George celebrated Palm Sunday, which marks the Entrance of the Lord into Jerusalem. After Divine Liturgy, there was a procession of palms followed by some members of the Church School, and the blessing of the palms which were held high by the parishioners. Click onto the more information link below to a few photos.  Additionally a short video showing the end of the procession can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/8gJ1E4oy8Cw
 

It was our joy to receive Aubrey Lyn Corraro through the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Chrismation on April 9th. Her proud parents Danielle and Richard gave her the patron Saint of Anastasia. May God grant them Many Years!

The parish of St. George celebrated Sunday Divine Liturgy for the Veneration of the Cross, which is the third Sunday of Great Lent.  The Cross is venerated as it stands in the middle of the Church at the middle of Great Lent, reminding us how man must live to be saved.   Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.
 

On Friday, March 25th, the St. George parish celebrated the Feast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos with Divine Liturgy.  This feast is the celebration of the announcing of the conception of Christ from the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

As we finished the first week of Great Lent, the parish of St. George celebrated Divine Liturgy on the first Sunday of Great Lent, which is called the Sunday of Orthodoxy or the Feast of the Triumph of Orthodoxy. It is a historical feast commemorating the return of the icons to the churches in the year 843. The church school children carried icons in procession during the Great Entrance at Divine Liturgy.  Click onto the following link to view a short video, and the more information link below to few some photos.
 

Dear St. George Parishioners,

Thank you to all who donated to LifeBridge during Thursday's "Fairfield County Giving Day".  Our donations totaled $720.50 and our 29 donors helped LifeBridge win the $10,000 bonus prize for the greatest number of donors on Giving Day.  I can't tell you how grateful I am for the support you showed and how proud it made me to see "St. George Orthodox Church" among LifeBridge's top donors on the Leaderboard.  As Father Sergei has said, we might be a small church, but we do great things.  Thank you for your participation in this wonderful day of philanthropy and demonstrating the spirit of our St. George parish.

Laura Coughlin, LifeBridge Board of Director

To learn more about LifeBridge Community Services, please click onto the following link:  https://lifebridgect.org

Congratulations and best wishes to John Veneri who recently graduated from Coastal Carolina University (South Carolina) with a degree in Business Management.  

On Sunday, Feb 6th, the first Sunday after the Meeting of the Lord or "Papandia",  the parish's Teuta Ladies Society celebrated its Patronal Feast Day, with prayers after Divine Liturgy.

Traditionally they offer 5 loaves, wheat, wine and oil for the celebration, and grure, (a boiled-wheat confection) for the health of the parish family. 

With the first meeting of the Teuta Ladies Society being held in January 1932, on this day the St. George parish also recognizes and thanks them for their 90 years of service.  May God grant them all many years!  

Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

St. George was saddened to learn that Boro (George) Kerma passed away Wednesday morning, Feb 2nd. We express our condolences to Boro’s wife Liljana, his son Ken and his wife Donna, sons Michael and Nick and their respective families.  Boro was pre-deceased by his first wife Pandora (Michael), son David and daughter Deborah.  Condolences are also extended to their extended families, as well as sisters-in-law Zoe Michael, Diana Michael and Mimoza Thanasi-Bala. Memory Eternal!

On Wednesday, February 2nd at Divine Liturgy, St. George celebrated the Feast of The Meeting of Our Lord in the Temple.  The Feast of the Meeting of the Lord in the Temple is celebrated each year forty days after his birth, when Christ was presented to God in the Temple, being received in the arms of the elder Simeon and the prophetess Anna.

St. George was saddened to learn of the death of Vangjeli "Angie" Soter on Monday, January 17th.  She was the widow of Vinnie Soter. We offer our condolences to her in-laws, Charlie and Joanne Soter, as well as her extended family. Memory Eternal! 
 

St. George celebrated the Liturgy for Theophany on Sunday, January 9th. The celebration of this feast was transferred from January 6th due to COVID concerns. The Great Blessing of Water was held on the feast day, January 6th. (See immediately below for that news update).  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

On Thursday, January 6th, on the Feast of Theophany, Fr. Sergei conducted the Great Blessing of Water.  Due to COVID concerns, the celebration of the Feast of Theophany will be transferred to Sunday, January 9th.  We are we asking parishioners NOT to bring their own bottles for Holy Water again this year; Fr. Sergei bottled Holy water with proper COVID protections after the service.  Bottles of Holy Water will be available beginning Sunday, January 9th with one bottle available per household. Click onto the more information link below to view several photos from Thursday’s Blessing of Water.

St. George was saddened to learn of the death of Bruce Lazar. He was the son of the late Peter Lazar.  Bruce was the nephew of Mary Lazar-Bindner, and a cousin once removed of Bob and Bill Lazar. We offer our condolences to his mother, Rita, wife Diane and their four children, and to the extended Lazar family. Memory Eternal!

Christ is born! Glorify Him!  Krishti U-Lind! Lavdërojeni! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Christmas greetings in both English and Albanian.  The St. George Community completed the service cycle of Advent with the Christmas Eve Compline Service and Divine Liturgy for the Nativity of the Lord.  Click onto the more information link to view a few photos.

The St. George Parish Family wishes you a joyous celebration of the Nativity of our Lord.  Our apologies to Mary Nikola, we missed printing her name on the card. Additionally, we wish to acknowledge a donation from Dolores Tait, however we received it after the print deadline. Click onto the more information link below to view the inside of the Community Christmas Card.

St George was saddened to learn that the Very Rev. Father Michael Macura reposed in the Lord on Saturday, December 18th at St. Vincent’s Hospital (Bridgeport). Fr. Michael served for 17 years at the Saint John the Baptist Church (Silver Lane, Stratford). St. George fondly remembers Fr. Michael from the Bridgeport region Pan-Orthodox Lenten services, and a few times when Fr. Michael helped out during our need by providing coverage for some emergency services. Memory Eternal!
 
Click onto the following link to view a memoriam: https://www.acrod.org/news/2020-press/em-fr-michael-macura

Below is a thank you note from Juxhin and Livia Shkurti - the seminarian from Albania who is studying at St. Vladimir's Seminary.  St. George ear-marked it's November monthly charity for the Shkurtis:  

Date: Wed, Dec 15, 2021 at 3:47 PM

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ ,
 
I hope this email finds you all well. My wife and i got your present this morning and we are most thankful for your generosity. We want to thank all the wonderful community of St George from our hearts and we wish to all of you Merry Christmas and happy New Year. 
God Bless you all and hoping to see you soon.
 
In Christ, 
 
Juxhin and Livia Shkurti 
 

November 2021 Charity Tray Announcment:

For the month of November, our charity tray will go to support our newest Archdiocesan Seminarian, Eugene (Juxhin) Shkurti and his wife, Livia, who recently arrived from Korce, Albania.  They visited with us in late September when Fr. Nikodhim celebrated Divine Liturgy at Saint George, 

Eugene is enrolled at Saint Vladimir's Seminary and is starting the first of his projected three years of study there.

Please be generous.

On Sunday, Dec 12th after Divine Liturgy, a group of "St. George Elves" delivered a bag of Christmas Cheer to some of our senior parishioners who are restricted at home or haven't been able to attend church services due to age or health during the COVID pandemic. The gifts were assembled and delivered to help remind these parishioners that they remain in our thoughts and prayers.  The Christmas Cheer bag contained homemade cookies and treats, some candy, a small icon, a small jar of Holy Oil, a Poinsettia plant, a handmade card from one of our church school children, and a 2022 Church calendar.  Our sincere thanks go out to: Sharon Buzi, Laura Coughlin, Diane Cryan, Luba Csernica, Laura Denisevich, Sue Galich, Jennifer Goetz, Patty Ivanov, Karen Masek, and Kim O'Brien. We also wish to thank our Church School children who created the holiday cards. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

St. George was saddened to learn that Archpriest John Loejos fell asleep in the Lord on December 10, 2021, after a battle with cancer. He served for many years at the OCA’s Albanian Saint E. Premte Church, Cleveland, OH but he was a priest of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Condolences to Presbytera Paula and the rest of Father John’s family, as well as the faithful of the Saint E. Premte Church. May His Memory be Eternal!

On Sunday, Dec 5th, St. George welcomed Fr. Vladimir Aleandro who served Divine Liturgy for us in Fr. Sergei's absence.  Fr. Vladimir retired in 2019 after serving as the pastor for 24 years at Christ the Savior Church in Southbury. Many from the parish who grew up in Trumbull will remember Fr. Vladimir from his earlier working years as a Counselor at Trumbull High School.  Many in the parish were able to greet Fr. Vladimir & Matushka Suzanne at coffee hour after Divine Liturgy.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few additional photos.

We learned that a former parishioner, Helen Leka Brown, passed away on Sunday, Nov 28th.  St. George extends its condolences to her family.  May her memory be eternal.

Following Divine Liturgy on Nov 28th, members from the Choir gathered and prepared their annual Care Packages to our undergraduate College students.  This practice unfortunately was suspended in 2020 due to COVID restrictions.  This year the packages contained home-made and store bought cookies, hot cocoa mix, microwavable lunch cups, and miscellaneous snacks and candies. This is an outreach to the young men and women of our parish as they face exam time - and just before they return from their semester break.

Click onto the more information link below to view a larger photo.

On Thursday, November 25th, which is also the Thanksgiving holiday - St. George wishes to congratulate Fr. Sergei Bouteneff on the 44th anniversary of his ordination into the Priesthood. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet! to Fr. Sergei, Prifteresha Elisabeth, and his family

St. George celebrated the Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos into the Temple on Sunday, November 21st.  The Feast commemorates when Mary, as a young child, was taken – presented – by her parents Joachim and Anna into the Temple in Jerusalem. Mary was solemnly received into the temple by the High Priest Zacharias.

To listen/view Fr. Sergei’s sermon about this feast, click onto the following link to view the Divine Liturgy stream from this feast day on St. George’s Facebook page.  The sermon begins at approximately the 23 min 30 second mark.

St. George wishes to acknowledge and thank the following people for their service and continued support to the parish:

Many thanks to Jim Bowe, who paints small decorative items, stools, Christmas ornaments every year to sell at the Fall Bazaar, donating the proceeds to the Teuta Ladies Society.  Due to the COVID pandemic restrictions, the Fall Bazaar has been cancelled the past 2 years, but Jim continued to paint.  He recently brought in his wares to sell at coffee hour.  Jim has raised over $700 to date which he is donating to the church. Jim still has items to sell so please support him and his efforts.

Fr. Sergei pointed out to the parish his personal thanks to Louise Karoli Gallagher and Bob Lazar who changed the table vestments for the Nativity Fast period.  Both Louise and Bob faithfully change the vestments to the appropriate color during the liturgical year.  Fr. Sergei specifically noted that they continued to change the vestments in 2020 when services were cancelled during the height of the COVID pandemic, just to keep the church prepared and ready for the time we would reopen for services.

Finally, many of you saw the large hole next to the entrance into the church on Sunday.  Sewer blockage outside of the church from root infiltration into our sewer line required major excavation, root cutting, and sewer line replacement to re-establish functioning restrooms and the church hall kitchen sinks.  Many thanks to Joe Galich, Bill Kovachi, and Bob Lazar who spent hours at the church over a 10-day period so workers could have access to make the repairs.

On Sunday, November 14th (3 days after Veteran's Day), St. George recognized and thanked the parish's Veterans after Divine Liturgy.  We extend our heart-felt gratitude to all those who serve and have served our country in the Armed Forces. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!  

Click onto the more information link below to view a larger photo. 

With the generous donations that we received, we are able to send 6 large flat rate boxes full of snacks, candies and other goodies to the two military personnel on our parish’s prayer list (Fr. James Parnell and Jason Gartsu).

We recently received confirmation that the packages made it for Veteran's Day, which was Thursday, November 11th.

Click onto the following link to view an article on Chaplain (Major) Priest James Parnell:  https://www.svots.edu/alumni-news/healing-dragons-ministry-chaplain-major-priest-james-parnell

Thank you to all who participated in this effort.

St. George was saddened to learn of the death of Richard (Dick) Watson on Thursday, October 14th. We extend condolences to his wife Vi and his children: TR and Denise and their families. 

St. George welcomed Fr. Nikodhim, the Interim Chancellor of the Albanian Archdiocese, who celebrated Divine Liturgy for us on Sunday, September 26th.  Fr. Nikodhim substituted for Fr. Sergei, who was on vacation.  Additionally, we are grateful to Fr. Nikodhim for taking time after Divine Liturgy to meet with parishioners, to discuss and listen our future hopes and concerns for the Parish. 

Adding to the joy of Fr. Nikodhim's visit was that he brought with him our newest Archdiocesan Seminarian Eugene (Juxhin) Shkurti and his wife, Livia, who recently arrived from Korce, Albania. Eugene is enrolled at Saint Vladimir's Seminary and is starting the first of his projected three years of study there.

Finally, as a special blessing, Fr. Nikodhim shared with the parish the icon he commissioned of Sainted Bishop Raphael together with his holy relics. He hopes to present these to the Church in Albania in the near future.  Fr. Nikodhim also passed out prayer cards with a photo of the icon of St. Raphael on the front, and the Troparion of St. Raphael in both Albanian and English on the rear of the card.

Of special interest is that the Sainted Bishop Raphael ordained Theofan S. Noli (founder to the Albanian Orthodox Church in America) to the Holy deaconate. St. Raphael also appears in one of our holy icons at our St. George parish - the one that depicts the Albanian and American Saints which is located on the north or left side wall, the 4th icon from the Altar or from the front of the church.

To learn more about the life of St. Raphael of Brooklyn, click onto the following link:  https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2016/02/27/100610-repose-of-saint-raphael-bishop-of-brooklyn

Please click onto the more information link below to view additional photos of the icons and prayer card.

In true pan-Orthodox spirit, Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross was celebrated at St. Dimitrie Church on Sept 14th, with the parishes of St. George and Holy Ghost joining the parish of St. Dimitrie.  Fr. George Coca and Fr. Sergei Bouteneff concelebrated the Liturgy. At the end of Divine Liturgy, the St. Dimitrie Ladies Auxillary hosted a Fellowship hour for all the attendees.  St. George offers our heartfelt thanks to St. Dimitrie for hosting this feast.

On Sunday, September 12th, marking the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, St. George held a memorial at the end of Divine Liturgy for all the victims at the New York City, Pentagon, and Shanksville, PA locations. Memory Eternal!

The parishes of St. George and Holy Ghost celebrated the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos with a joint Divine Liturgy at St. George.  Click onto the more information link below to view some photos from Divine Liturgy.

On September 5th after Divine Liturgy, St. George held a memorial prayer service on the occasion of the 2nd year anniversary of Archbishop Nikon's death.  His Eminence, Archbishop Nikon served as the Archbishop of Boston, New England, and the Albanian Archdiocese.
 
A link to the OCA Memoriam follows:   https://www.oca.org/in-memoriam/his-eminence-archbishop-nikon

The following is a status of some of our young adults currently enrolled in college. We give our best wishes for their continued success!

John Babich – is a Junior attending the University of Maryland majoring in Biology, with a pre-med track.  
Philip Caliendo - is a Sophomore attending Catholic University of America (Washington, DC), majoring in Finance.
Erin Galich- is a Sophomore studying Psychology at Central Connecticut State University (New Britain). 
George Goetz - is pursuing a Master of Science degree in Accounting at Penn State.  
Jackie Goetz- is pursuing a Master of Science degree in Forensic Science at the University of New Haven.  
James Goetz- is a Sophomore attending University of Maryland, studying Business.   
Pandora Kerma– beginning her freshman year at Housatonic Community College  
John Veneri - is a Senior attending Coastal Carolina University (South Carolina) majoring in Business Management.

We congratulate the following young adults who are receiving scholarships for the 2021-2022 school year from the Thomas and Katherine LaBache Scholarship Fund:

John Babich
Pandora Kerma
Erin Galich
James Goetz

Many Years!   Për Shumë Vjet!

On Sunday, August 15th, St. George celebrated the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos.  This feast commemorates the repose (dormition) or "falling-asleep" of the Mother of our Lord, Jesus Christ, and also commemorates the assumption into heaven of the body of the Theotokos.  After Divine Liturgy, there was the blessing of fragrant herbs and flowers, which is customary on this feast.  

Fr. Sergei prepared a video discussing this feast and the icon of this feast - click here to view the video.  

Finally, you may click onto the more information link below to view a few photos from the service . 

On Saturday, August 14th, Maggie Juliet Rakowitz was received in to the Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. Her sponsors were Jessica Chadwick and Joe Galich. Maggie is the daughter of Rebecca & Daniel Rakowitz, the sister of Evan, the grandsdaughter of Laura & Joe Chadwick, and the great-granddaughter of Vi & Jim Bowe. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

On Friday, August 6th, St. George celebrated the Feast of the Transfiguration, with the parish of Holy Ghost joining us for Divine Liturgy at St. George.  After Divine Liturgy, Fr. Sergei Bouteneff and Fr. John Jillions blessed grapes, fruit, and vegetables that is traditional on this feast day.  St. George wishes to thank Fr. John Jillions for delivering the sermon on this day.  A postcard of the Transfiguration icon, and blessed grapes were handed out during the dismissal.  Below are the prayers that were offered during the blessing of fruits and vegetables:

Prayer at the partaking of grapes on the sixth day of August:
Bless, O Lord, this new fruit of the vine, which, through temperate weather, through showers of rain and times of calm, has attained to ripeness at this hour, according to Thy good pleasure.  May our partaking of this birth of the vine be for gladness, and for the offering of a gift unto Thee for the cleansing of sins, through the sacred and holy Body of Thy Christ, with whom thou art blessed, together with thy most holy, good, and life-giving Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages.  Amen.
 
Prayer for those who offer first fruits:
O Master, Lord our God, who commandest everyone to offer to Thee thine own of thine own, according to their intention, granting them in return thine eternal good things, and who didst favourably accept the offering of the widow which was according to her ability: now also accept these things offered by Thy servants [here present], counting them worthy to lay up the same in thine eternal treasury.  And grant them an abundant harvest of thine eternal good things, together with all things that are profitable unto them.  For blessed is Thy Name, and glorified is Thy kingdom: of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages.  Amen.

Click onto the more information link below to view some photos.

On Sunday, August 1st, St. George recognized the Feast of Procession of the Honorable Wood of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord.  Given the current COVID pandemic, and the coincidence that August 1st fell on a Sunday this year, St. George recognized this feast after Divine Liturgy with a procession with the Cross around the perimeter of the church, and a short prayer service in the center of the church - asking the Lord to bless our community, and asking for our continued good health.

"The origin of this Feast is explained in the Greek Horologion of 1897: 'Because of the illnesses which occur during the month of August, it was customary at Constantinople to carry the Precious Wood of the Cross in procession throughout the city for its sanctification, and to deliver it from sickness.' "On the eve (July 31), the Cross was removed from the imperial treasury and placed it upon the Holy Table of the Great Church of Hagia Sophia (which is dedicated to Christ, the Wisdom of God). From August 1st until the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos, there was a procession throughout the entire the city, and then the Cross was placed where all the people could venerate it."

Click on the more information link below to view some photos.

On Sunday, July 4th at Divine Liturgy, St. George celebrated and recognized both the secular holiday of Independence Day and the spiritual Feast Day commemorating All Saints of America. We remember all the Saints in America, both known and unknown, on this day. Specifically, we need to remember our great-grandparents, our grandparents, our parents, aunts and uncles - those who all left their homelands and emigrated to America, bringing with them their faith, the Orthodox Faith to America, building and supporting all of our churches, never forgetting the Church.   
 
During his sermon, Fr. Sergei read a hymn from the Vespers service for this day, which also highlights and remembers our forebearers in America who brought the Orthodox Faith to America.  The hymn follows below.  You can view/listen to Fr. Sergei’s sermon from a video recording of Divine Liturgy from this day on St. George’s Facebook page - the sermon is located at approximately the 24 minute, 15 second mark:    https://www.facebook.com/StGeorgeOrthodoxChurch/videos/3593777484057796/ 
 
 
Excerpted From the Vespers Service for All Saints in America:

Rejoice, O mountains of Pennsylvania;
leap for joy, O waters of the Great Lakes;
rise up, O fertile plains of Canada;
for the elect of Christ who dwelt in you are glorified,
men and women who left their homes for a new land!
With faith, hope, and patience as their armor,
they courageously fought the good fight.
Comforted by the beauty of the Orthodox Faith,
they labored in mines and mills, they tilled the land,
they braved the challenges of the great cities,
enduring many hardships and sufferings.
Never failing to worship God in spirit and truth
and unyielding in devotion to His most pure Mother,
they erected many temples to His glory.
Come, O assembly of the Orthodox,
and with love let us praise the holy men, women, and children,
those known to us and those known only to God,
and let us cry out to them://
“Rejoice, all Saints of North America and pray to God for us!”
 
Service texts for the Vespers and Liturgy for All Saints of America:
Service texts for 2021 0704
 

St. George celebrated the Feast of Pentecost on Sunday, June 20th with Divine Liturgy immediately followed by the Kneeling Vespers. The Feast commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit when the Apostles were gathered together and a sound came from heaven like a rushing wind, then tongues of fire appeared upon each one of Apostles. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages. It also celebrates the establishment of the Church through the preaching of the Apostles and the baptism of the thousands on that day. The Feast is also seen as the culmination of the revelation of the Holy Trinity.

Coincedentally, Father's Day fell on the same day.  Commemorations/Prayers were read for our departed and living fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, godfathers, brothers, stepbrothers, or nephews during the Great Entance and after the Pentecost Kneeling Vespers service.  Click onto the more information link below to view some photos. 

St. George celebrated the feast of The Ascension of our Lord with Divine Liturgy.  The feast commemorates when, on the 40th day after His Resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven after asking his disciples to wait for the fulfillment of the promise of the Holy Spirit.  Click onto the more information link below to view 2 photos.

Metropolitan Tikhon, Locum Tenens of the Albanian Archdiocese issued an updated letter with guidance and general principles for clergy and parishes of the Albanian Archdiocese for gradual reopening from our COVID restrictions.  Click on the following link to view the letter:  June 1, 2021: Met Tikhon to Albanian Archdiocese with Directives & General Principles for gradual reopening

Congratulations to our 2021 Graduates who recently completed, or will soon complete, their studies and graduate. We extend our best wishes to them for continued success!
 
High School:
Pandora Kerma – will graduate from Fairfield Warde High School (Fairfield).
 
College:
George Goetz -  graduated Penn State with a B.S. in Accounting. 
Carly Nicholas – graduated with honors (Magna Cum Laude) with a B.S. in Business Management and a B.A. in Spanish from Providence College (Rhode Island).
Jennifer Soter- graduated with honors (Summa Cum Laude) with a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Bridgeport

On Sunday, May 30th (Memorial Day weekend), prayers were offered in memory of our parish community's departed Veterans - both during Divine Liturgy, and after during a Memorial service.  On this weekend, the St. George community, along most Americans, take time to reflect, thank, and remember the sacrifice of our departed Veterans and all they did for this country.  Memory Eternal!  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos from the Memorial service

On Thomas Sunday, which was Mother’s Day in the US, we recognized with special prayers our mothers, godmothers, grandmothers, aunts, daughters, nieces, step-mothers, and all those special women in our lives. Prayers for both our departed and living mothers were offered at two times during Divine Liturgy; once at the Great Entrance and a second time at the end of the service.  The monetary donations will be used for the beautification of the church.  Click onto the more information link below to view some photos.

We extend our heartful thanks to the many people who helped to make Lent, Holy Week and Pascha beautiful and meaningful celebrations. Click onto the more information link below to view the details. 

The St. George parish community was saddened to learn of the death of Debbie (Kerma) Rohr, daughter of Boro and the late Pandora Kerma. We extend our condolences to her husband Kurt, daughters Nicole and Sarah, her grandchildren, brothers Michael, Nick and Ken, and the rest of the Kerma family. Besides her mother Pandora, Debbie was predeceased by a brother David.  Memory Eternal!

St. George was joined by Holy Ghost parish to celebrate the Paschal Liturgy on Bright Monday.  Click on the more information link below to view a few photos. 

The St. George community recently completed the service cycle of Great Lent and Holy Week to Holy Pascha, with the celebration of the Midnight Paschal Liturgy on May 2nd.  Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!  Krishti U-Ngjall! Vërtet U-Ngjall! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Paschal greetings in both English and Albanian.  Click Here to view the Paschal greeting in numerous languages. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

St. George completed services on Holy Friday with the Friday evening Matins service for Great and Holy Saturday, with the Praises at the Tomb of Christ.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos.

The Archpastoral Message of Metropolitan Tikhon can be read at the following link:  2021 Paschal Message.   Note: an Albanian translation (a PDF document) of this message can be found at the bottom of the message's page. 

On April 25th, St. George celebrated Palm Sunday which marks the Entrance of the Lord into Jerusalem. After Divine Liturgy, Fr. Sergei blessed the palms which were distributed to parishioners as they left the church.  Unfortunately, in a nod to safety during this COVID pandemic, the procession with palms with the parish children was cancelled for this year.  Click onto the more information link to a few photos.

The St. George community offers its deepest sympathy to Mimosa Bala at the death of her husband, Vatutin.  Condolences are also offered to daughter, Helena Dea (husband, Dr. Alexander Fortenko and son, Ronan Wolf) as well as sister-in-law Lilliana Kerma (Boro),
 

Attached please find Holy Week and Paschal Directives from Metropolitan Tikhon, Locum Tenens of the Albanian Archdiocese, to the clergy with general directives and safety guidelines to the parishes for Holy Week and Pascha services.  Apr 14, 2021: Met Tikhon Paschal Directives 

As we finished the third week of Great Lent, the parish of St. George celebrated Sunday Divine Liturgy the Veneration of the Cross, which is the third Sunday of Great Lent.  The Cross is venerated as it stands in the middle of the Church at the middle of Great Lent, reminding us of how we must live to be saved.   Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos

Historically, on Forgiveness Sunday, the Church School children and their teachers tied a Veror bracelet on their right hand, and kept it on until Paschal Vespers, when they cut it off, and place it on the bushes for the birds. Some of the adults of the parish also wore the bracelet in solidarity with the children.

This year, with continued COVID safety protocols still in place, the Church School children, who are learning remotely, are continuing the practice. 

Click onto the following link to learn more about the Veror Albanian Lenten bracelet tradition.

Please click on the following link to view a letter from Metropolitan TIKHON, Locum Tenens of the Albanian Archdiocese.  The letter offers encouragement and guidance to parishes as we are entering Great Lent.  He acknowledges the difficult past year, commends how local parishes have maintained patience and initiative over the past year in dealing with all the COVID protocols, and is urging parishes to maintain a level of care and caution for Great Lent even as we begin to see a decrease in infections and the availability of vaccines.  Everyone is hoping the upcoming Lenten period will allow for a continued increase and return of liturgical services and life.  March 6, 2021: Guidelines for Great Lent

Metropolitan Tikhon, Locum Tenens of Boston, New England, and the Albanian Archdiocese recently announced administrative changes for the Albanian Archdiocese.  Protopresbyter Arthur Liolin was appointed Chancellor Emeritus of the Albanian Archdiocese, stepping away from his daily duties as Chancellor.  Igumen Nikodhim (Preston) has been appointed as interim Chancellor for the Albanian Archdiocese in his place.  Click onto the following link to view Metropolitan Tikhon's announcement:   2021 Feb 11th- Letter to Archdiocesan Council on Apptmt Igumen Nikodhim

Additionally, click on the following link to view a letter from Michael Gregory, Lay Vice-Chairman of the Albanian Archdiocese with his thoughts on the administrative changes  2021 Feb 18th - Letter from Michael Gregory

Saint George Church acknowledges the following for their stewardship donation as we mark the "traditional" Konizmat practice during this COVID-19 Pandemic:
 
Greg & Sharon Buzi – St. Dorothy & St. Gregory
Laura & Tim Coughlin – St. Timothy the Apostle
Diane Cryan – Saints Constantine & Helen
Laura & Dave Denisevich- St. Olga & St. Romanus
Mary DiIulio – Twelve Apostles
Louise Gallagher – St. Dimitri
Bob & Linda Lazar – Resurrection of the Lord
Diana Michael- Annunciation to the Theotokos
Dolores Nauchy- St. John the Baptist & St. Helen
Richard Nichio, Jr.- St. Nicholas
Kim O’Brien- St. Catherine of Alexandria
Charles & Joanne Soter – St. Basil
Anonymous donors

To learn more about Konizmat, click onto the following link:  Konizmat - Icon Auction

St. George was saddened to learn that Richard Nichio, Sr. passed away on Friday, January 1, 2021. The St. George community expresses its condolences to Jeanette, Richard, Craig, Rebecca and Alecia, as well as the extended family! Memory Eternal!

Christ is born! Glorify Him!   Krishti U-Lind! Lavdërojeni! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Christmas greetings in both English and Albanian. Due to COVID protocols, on the Eve of the Nativity of Christ, the St. George Community completed the service cycle of Advent with a Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil for the Nativity of the Lord.

The St. George Parish Family wishes you a joyous Nativity - Click Here to view the Community Christmas Card. 

On Sunday, Dec 13th after Divine Liturgy, as a special outreach project, a group of "St. George Elves" delivered a bag of Christmas Cheer to some of our senior parishioners who are restricted at home or haven't been able to attend church services due to age or health during the COVID pandemic. The gifts were assembled and delivered to help remind these parishioners that they remain in our thoughts and prayers.  The Christmas Cheer bag contained some tea, homemade cookies and treats, an icon, a plant, a handmade card from one of our church school children, and a 2021 Church calendar.  Our sincere thanks go out to: Sharon Buzi, Laura Chadwick, Laura Coughlin, Diane Cryan, Luba Csernica, Laura Denisevich, Erin Galich, Sue Galich, Jennifer Goetz, Karen Masek, and Kim O'Brien. We also wish to thank our Church School children who participated.  Click onto the more information link to view a few photos.

Due to the COVID pandemic, St. George was not able to hold the annual St. Nicholas Day party for the parish children.   As a small replacement to this event, a short video was prepared with some photos from past years. Many thanks to Jim Bowe for his reading of the Christmas poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas” along with his two great-grandchildren, Caelyn and Christian for their supporting roles.  To Erin Galich for her video work, and especially to Melissa Galich for all her editing work assembling the video.  Also, a final thank you to parishioners who forwarded photos to be shared. Please click onto the following link to view the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyB8KP4lXnE

It has come to our attention that a member of our parish who regularly attends Liturgy, has recently tested positive for COVID.  The parishioner last attended services on Nov 22nd.  After reviewing the situation, in an abundance of caution, we have decided to cancel this Sunday’s Liturgy.  

Liturgy will resume next Sunday, December 13th. 

Due to privacy regulations, we are not permitted to disclose the member’s identity.  With the protocols we have in place (wearing of masks, open windows, social distancing, individual communion spoons, etc) as well as the time elapsed since the parishioner was last in church, the risk to others is highly unlikely. 

If any parishioners who attended services on November 22nd and require more detailed information and dates due to tracking or reporting requirements for work or their employement, please call Bill Kovachi at 203-449-4404.

Click onto the following link to view a letter from Metropolitan Tikhon to the parishes of the Albanian Archdiocese at a time of rising COVID infections nationally and within the Archdiocese.  Met. Tikhon discusses that it is critical to maintain the Eucharist Life of the Church, maintain the Sacramental Life of the Church, while limiting in-person activities to those that are truely necessary, recognizing the COVID virus is transmitted most frequently by in-person contact  Letter from Met. Tikhon on COVID Precautions 2020 Nov 21. 

St. George extends our thanks to Dave Dougiello of Commerce Hill Funeral Home for donating the 2021 Wall Calendars.  Please pick one up at the Church Desk. 

Click onto the following link to view and download a letter from Metropolitan Tikhon to the Clergy of the Albanian Archdiocese on upswings in COVID cases throughout the country.   Letter from Met Tikhon to Alb Arch 2020 Nov 3

The letter encourages parishes to continue to evaluate the COVID environment in their region, to consider as necessary the lowering the stage of their opening plans, lowering the limit of attendees to Liturgy, lowering the number of services, etc., to comply with local civil health directives. 

UPDATE from December 10th:  The State of Connecticut remains in RED alert.  Out of a total of 169 cities and towns in CT, 163 (96%) are in RED alert.  Specifically in our locale, ALL towns in Fairfield County and New Haven County are in RED alert.  Bridgeport continues to have the highest infection rate in the state.  You can view the state map here:  https://portal.ct.gov/Coronavirus/COVID-19-Data-Tracker

St. George remains in-compliance with all Civil and Synodal guidelines.  Just to quickly re-state the current re-opening status of St. George:

1)   St. George continues to operate under its original re-opening plan. Our plan was developed to meet the Phase 1, Stage 1 Holy Synodal Guidelines.  The current plan in use was approved June 25th.
2)   St. George is approved to only hold Sunday Divine Liturgies with a maximum of 40 attendees (maximum of 25% occupancy)
3)   St. George never applied to increase the number of attendees, primarily because the physical layout of our pews prohibits additional attendees while maintaining a 6-foot physical distance between attendees.
4)   Major procedural changes that remain in effect include: reservations for attendance; setting up seating plans; special cleaning of the church; maintaining attendance records for any tracing needs; controlling entrance and exit routes; requiring masks or face coverings; taking temperature readings of arriving attendees; no regular choir; eliminating kissing and contact with icons, crosses, and the chalice; and using individual sanitized spoons for distribution of Communion.

For additional specific details, please click onto the following website link to view our June 26th News Update on the re-opening guidelines for St. George.  https://www.stgeorgetrumbull.org/news_200627_1

Any parishioners with COVID symptoms (fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, etc.), or have had contact with someone having COVID, or showing COVID symptoms, should not attend services.  Also, seniors with underlying health conditions are encouraged to stay home.

The Parish Council will continue to monitor the local health situation surrounding COVID, and make and communicate any appropriate changes as necessary for the health and safety of our community.

On Sunday Nov 8th after Divine Liturgy, in honor of Veteran’s Day, our parish Veterans and current military personnel were acknowledged, and a special prayer was read for all Veterans and Military servicemen and women.  Below is the prayer:
 
Almighty God, the cause of liberty is Yours. 
It is likewise the cause of those who have defended it against tyranny and oppression. 
Remembering the veterans who have served, and those who are now serving in America's Armed Forces, we give You thanks. 
We are grateful that You inspired their sense of patriotism and strengthened them in unselfish service. 
Their courage and vigilance insured the freedom and peace we enjoy today. 
Grant, we pray, O Lord, to each of our Veterans a generous portion of Your grace and to America, our native land, Your blessing.  
Amen.

On Sunday, October 25th, St. George held a Memorial Service for His Beatitude Metropolitan Theodosius who fell asleep in the Lord on Monday, October 19th.  May his memory be eternal! 

The OCA prepared an "In Memoriam" Photo Album on Met. Theodosius.  One photo from the album shows Met. Theodosius with Albanian Archdiocese clergy and delegates at the 5th All-American Council in Montreal in 1977.  Click onto the more information link below to view the photo and additional details. 

Metropolitan Theodosius with clergy and lay delegates from the Albanian Archdiocese following his election as Primate at the 5th All-American Council in Montreal, 1977
 
Front Row (Seated, Left to RIght): Fr. Eugene Vansuch  (Former Parish Priest of St. George, and at the time of photo, was the parish priest of St. John Chrysostom, Philadelphia); Metropolitan Theodosius; Bishop Dmitri (at the time, Bishop of Hartford and New England, serving as Locum Tenens of the Albanian Archdiocese); Fr. Nicholas Liolin (Parish Priest at either St. Nicholas, Southbridge, MA, or St. Thomas, Farmington Hills, MI, later to become Archbishop Nikon).
 
Middle Row (Standing L-R):  Fr. Alexander Federoff (Parish Priest for Church of the Annunciation, Natick, MA),  Fr. Daniel Montgomery (Parish Priest of St. George, Trumbull); Unidentified Lay delegate #1; Unidentified Lay Delegate #2 , Fr Mark Forsberg (Parish Priest at St. George Cathedral, Boston, soon to become Bishop Mark, Bishop of the Albanian Archdiocese); Al Foundos (St. Nicholas, Jamaica Estates, NY delegate).
 
Top Row (Standing L-R):  Unidentified Parish Priest; Unidentified Lay delegate #3;  Fr. Spero Page (Parish Priest of St. Mary's, Worcester, MA),  Nick Adam (St. George, Trumbull delegate)
 

St. George was saddened to learn that on Monday morning, October 19, 2020, His Beatitude Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor), former Archbishop of Washington, Metropolitan of All-America and Canada, fell asleep in the Lord in Canonsburg, PA after an extended illness. 

Metropolitan Theodosius was the past spiritual leader of the Orthodox Church in America from 1977 to 2002.  He served many years as Locum Tenens of the Albanian Archdiocese, and was an advocate of Orthodox unity in North America. 

Please click onto the following link to view an In Memoriam from the OCA:   https://www.oca.org/in-memoriam/his-beatitude-metropolitan-theodosius-lazor

May his memory be eternal!

St. George joined Holy Ghost Church for Divine Liturgy on Sunday, October 11th at their outdoor pavilion in Holy Ghost Park, Shelton.  St. George extends at heartfelt "Thank you" to the Holy Ghost parish for being a welcoming host on a crisp autumn day.

On Sunday, September 20th, St. George held a 3rd-Year Anniversary Memorial for long-term parishioner George Barmashi and a 40th-day Memorial for a former pastor, the Very Reverend Daniel Montgomery. Memory Eternal!

St. George was saddened to learn of the repose of one of its former pastors, the Very Reverend Daniel Montgomery, on August 12th.  Fr. Daniel and his wife Prifteresha Maria (who predeceased Fr. Daniel in November 8, 2016) served the St. George parish for 11 years beginning in 1976.  Memory Eternal!

Please go to our Parish History section;  https://stgeorgetrumbull.org/parish_history  -  you can find, about 1/2 way down, a small description of the parish's history for Fr. Daniel's time at St. George. 

In Memoriam: Rev. Daniel Binney Montgomery 1924-2020
 
When Father Daniel was informed that he was dying, he smiled and replied calmly, “Well, I’ve had a good run.” (96 years) “I’m curious to see what comes next!” His faith imbued him with an inspiring serenity as he faced his final month of life. And what a life it was.
 
Born in Bryn Mawr, PA to an old Quaker family, he enjoyed a private education at the Haverford School until 1942, when he enlisted in the Army Air Force. Her served during WWII in Europe as a radio operator in the Ninth Tactical Air Force and later in the First Franco-American Tactical Air Force, participating in seven campaigns--among them the Normandy campaign and the Battle of the Bulge.
 
After the war he went to Mexico, graduating from Mexico City College--now, Universidad de las Américas, with a degree in history. In 1947 he married María Luisa Tamborrel (1925-2016) and enjoyed a marriage that lasted sixty-nine years. The couple had three children: Dr. Sylvia Montgomery Shaw, Louise Montgomery Snyder (who died in 2018), and Robert A. Montgomery who served his country with distinction with several posts in Asia and in Afghanistan. Father Daniel was blessed with twelve grandchildren, and in the last two years of his life with four great grandsons.
 
He was a scholar, an educator, a writer, a lecturer, and a devoted priest. He had a facility for languages, a Master’s degree in Spanish literature, published articles on Eastern Christian mysticism, and two books on Buddhism. He was co-translator of The Lotus Sutra from Chinese to English. His best-known work, Fire in the Lotus, was published in England in 1991 and was later translated into Spanish. But perhaps his greatest legacy springs from his quest for God.
 
That search took him to Princeton University Seminary, Philadelphia Lutheran Seminary, and finally to private studies with the Orthodox bishop who ordained him. Starting in 1956 Father Daniel served parishes in Vicksburg, Mississippi; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Beaumont, Texas; Trumbull, Connecticut, and Kerrville, Texas. Even during his years as an educator, when he was department chair of foreign languages at Valley Forge Military Academy and was awarded Outstanding Secondary Educator of America (1975), he served as chaplain to Orthodox cadets.
 
One of his Connecticut parishioners wrote to him on Easter in 2019, summing up the great value of his life: “You were a wonderful teacher. Your sermons provoked thought and discussion in our home. You nurtured our love and understanding of the Orthodox faith without being showy or pedantic. You encouraged us to be the best of ourselves and to find His peace in our hearts. You taught us about faith, kindness, tolerance, and hope. You guided our approach to the chalice with free, open, and humble hearts. You led by example. YOU were a gift to all of us!”
 
Father Daniel slept peacefully for the last three days of his earthly life. The day before he died, he suddenly opened his eyes, his face radiant with surprise and delight. Then he closed them for the last time. On the evening of August 12, 2020, he slipped gently into the Lord’s arms.

After Divine Liturgy on Aug 30th, St. George held 1st-Year Anniversary Memorials for Archbishop NIKON and for 2 long-term parishioners, Donald Jordan and James Pando.  Memory Eternal! 

Father Gregory was tonsured at Holy Cross Monastery in Wayne, WV on Aug 27th.  This is the next important step towards Fr. Gregory becoming a monk.

The photo is immediately following Fr. Gregory’s tonsure.  Flanking Fr. Gregory is the Monastery Abbot, Fr. Seraphim, on right side of the photo , and his confessor, Fr. Macarius on the left side of the photo.

A tonsure is the cutting of the hair on the head. All Orthodox Christians are tonsured at our baptism – a sign of our being dedicated to God. This monastic tonsure is a confirmation of that pledge.

Please click on the following link to view the original announcement which includes letters from Sharon and Greg Buzi to the St. George parish, and an email from Fr. Seraphim, Abbot of Holy Cross Monastery, to the Buzi’s:  https://stgeorgetrumbull.org/news_200817_1

The parish of St. George continues to pray for Father Gregory and the whole Buzi family as he progresses on his journey.

Please click onto the attached link of the Sixth Hour service (12 Noon service) on August 27th. Br. Gregory can be heard reading the Sixth Hour prayers (begins at the 5 minute mark of the video) to prepare himself for his tonsure. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9uEhKzMGbI

To view Fr. Gregory's tonsure, please click onto the following link.  The tonsure is after the Vigil service, at approximately the 3hr, 42min, 15 sec mark. and lasts about 18 minutes. https://youtu.be/QOAppusvDWQ

The following is a status of some of our young adults currently enrolled in college. We give our best wishes for their continued success!
 
John Babich – is a Sophomore attending the University of Maryland majoring in Biology, with a pre-med track.
Philip Caliendo - is a Freshman attending Catholic University of America (Washington, DC), majoring in Finance.  
Erin Galich- is a Freshman studying Psychology at Central Connecticut State University (New Britain). 
George Goetz -  is a Senior at Penn State pursuing Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting.  
Jackie Goetz- is pursuing a Master of Science degree in Forensic Science at the University of New Haven.  
James Goetz- is a freshman attending University of Maryland, studying Business/Journalism.   
Carly Nicholas – is a Senior at Providence College (Rhode Island), finishing up a double-major in Business Management and Spanish. 
John Veneri - is a Senior attending Coastal Carolina University (South Carolina) majoring in Business Management.
Owen Wight – is a Junior at the University of Connecticut.

We congratulate the following young adults who are receiving scholarships for the 2020-2021 school year from the Thomas and Katherine LaBache Scholarship Fund:

John Babich
Philip Caliendo
Erin Galich
George Goetz
James Goetz
Carly Nicholas

Many Years!   Për Shumë Vjet!

Congratulations to Victoria Nichio who received her Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Bridgeport graduating Summa cum laude. She will student teach at Columbus Elementary School in Norwalk.

During the last week of June, the Parish Council received approval from Metropolitan Tikhon, Locum Tenens of the Albanian Archdiocese, for St. George to begin a gradual re-opening based on pre-approved guidelines.  The first service held was Divine Liturgy on Sunday, July 5, 2020.

The number of parishioners allowed inside for Divine Liturgy is capped at 40.  This is based on current civil (Connecticut) guidelines, which is for a maximum of 25% of capacity. 
 
These guidelines, procedures, and plans are not negotiable and require all to collectively cooperate and respect them. They are in place to maintain everyone’s safety and well-being, and were written to follow the guidelines provided by the State of Connecticut, and the Phase 1, Stage 1 guidance outlined in the Holy Synodal Guidelines (May 1, 2020). Before deciding whether or not you will be able to participate in person, please take the time to read the following three attachments:  

Guidelines for re-opening

Priest Guidelines for re-opening

Approval Letter to re-open 

For members who do not have email, a copy of the "Guidelines for re-opening" was mailed to them on Friday, June 26th. 

Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we navigate the COVID-19 challenges.

Note for Sundays - WIth the restricted re-opening of St. George for Sunday Divine Liturgies, Fr. Sergei will be video recording his sermons each Sunday in the church. They will be posted on St. George's YouTube Channel after Divine Liturgy. Because of time required to edit, format, and process the video for viewing, they will not be available to view until Sunday afternoons.  The following link will take you to St. George's YouTube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvDnJSwwffvezBVH7P8u0bg

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Sunday Reader Prayer Service:  the following link contains recommended sets of prayers to be used at home for those unable to attend due to specific health risks:

For use at Home or at St. George without a Priest:  Sunday Reader Prayer Service

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Click on the following to view additional Resouces that are available for use during this period of suspended services:   RESOURCES during COVID-19 pandemic. 

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The featured icon image is of Sts Hermione, Philonilla & Zenaida the Unmercenary Physicians.  They are known as the Mothers of Modern Medicine, the first Unmercenary Physicians. Unmercenary Physicians were trained physicians who treated the poor and did not accept payment for their services. View more information at these following links:  https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2020/09/04/102492-martyr-hermione-daughter-of-saint-philip-the-deacon   and  https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2019/10/11/102939-martyrs-zenaida-and-philonilla-of-tarsus-in-cilicia

Congratulations to our 2020 Graduates who recently completed their studies and graduated.  We extend our best wishes to them for continued success!
 
High School:
 
Philip Caliendo – Graduating from West Haven High School
Erin Galich – Graduating from Trumbull High School
James Goetz – Graduating from Weston High School
 
College:
 
Kristen Babich – Graduated with a B.A. in Elementary Education at Saint Joseph's University (Pennsylvania).
TJ Coughlin – Received a B.S. in Finance at the University of Maryland.
Jackie Goetz – Received her B.S. in Biology at the University of Connecticut.
Eve Wight – Graduated from the University of Vermont with a B.S. in Computer Science and minors in Mathematics and Art.

Please click onto the following letter from the Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church in America.  The Holy Synod, at its May 1st meeting, is authorizing "His Beatitude, Metropolitan Tikhon to assume additional authority proper to a Diocesan Bishop within the Diocese of New England and the Albanian Archdiocese."  It will be revisted at the Autumn Meeting, November 2020.  May 7, 2020:  Letter from Holy Synod Met Tikhon Locum Tenens Albanian Archdiocese

Below are links to communications from the Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church in America, a Pastoral Letter and Guidelines for preparing to eventually reopen our churches in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.   It is very detailed, but please understand that there remains no timeline to date for any reopening.  
Any and all future reopenings will be phased in and based on local conditions and authorities. In the US, all reopenings will be guided by scientific and medical data and instructions from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).  

May 1, 2020:  Pastoral Letter from Holy Synod

May 1, 2020:  Synodal Guidelines for future reopening of Churches

We learned that Teuta (Tessie) Sotir passed away on Saturday, May 2nd.  St. George extends its condolences to her family. Tessie, who was 102, was the wife of the late Charles Sotir, and survived by her son Robert of Bridgeport, daughter Beverly Mackno of Georgetown, TX, sister Margaret Athanas of MA, and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Donations in her memory may be made to St. George Church.  Memory Eternal! 

St. George was saddened to learn that Katherine (“Kay”) Pando passed on Saturday, May 2nd.  Katherine is survived by her sister-in-law Mary Ann Pando, niece Susan Pando Lazos and husband Thanasi, and nephew Michael. Memory Eternal!

Please click onto the following links to view Paschal messages fron from His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon:    

Archpastoral Message for Pascha:   2020 Pascha - Archpastoral Message from Met. TIKHON  

Bright Week Greeting to the Albanian Archdiocese:   2020 April 25 - Bright Week Greeting to Albanian Ardiocese

We were saddened to learn that Peter Lazar passed away Tuesday, April 21st.  St. George extends it's condolences to his wife Rita and their two sons and daughter.  Additionally to his sister Mary Bindner and her husband James, and his cousins Bob & Bill Lazar and their families.  Memory Eternal! 
 

From Metropolitan Tikhon on updated directives to the clergy & faithful of Archdiocese of Washington, Albanian Archdiocese, Diocese of New England, Monastic communities and Seminaries: 

“… I am offering these brief clarifications/expansions of my previous guidelines:…” : Apr 10, 2020 Clarifications to STAV WASH ALB NE Dioceses

".....On March 14, 2020, I issued my first set of directives which allowed for limited services. This was followed on March 17, 2020, with a second set of directives, effectively suspending all public liturgical services in the dioceses and institutions under my omophorion. ​The following updated directives  are effective immediately....":  Apr 4, 2020: FINAL Directives to STAV, WASH, ALB, NE Dioceses

Click onto the following link to view a video message from His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon  https://www.oca.org/media/video/primatial-message-of-his-beatitude-metropolitan-tikhon

From the Holy Synod of Bishops:  After extensive deliberation on this subject, the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America reiterated its directive of March 17, 2020, and extended it to the end of April 2020:
 
St. George will remain closed through the month of April, 2020.
 
Please read the following statements that were released on March 30th:
 
Archpastoral Message from the Holy Synod extending the suspension of services:    Mar 30 2020 Archpastoral Message from Holy Synod
 
Directives from Holy Synod to the OCA:   Mar 30 2020 Directives of the Holy Synod
 
Joint Communique of the Holy Synod & Metropolitan Council:  Mar 30 2020 Joint Comminique

Below please find a note and link to a video message of encouragement from Metropolitan TIKHON, Locum Tenens of the Albanian Archdiocese, and a letter from the Albanian Archdiocese: 

Letter and link to a Video Message from Metropolitan TIKHON:   Video Message from Met TIKHON

View a letter from the Chancellor, V. Rev. Arthur Liolin and Lay Vice-Chairman, Michael Gregory of the Albanian Archdiocese:   March 30 2020 Archdiocese Communication

From Metropolitan TIKHON 

These updated directives supercede the March 13, 2020 COVID-19 guidance:
 
Effective Immediately:  All parishes and missions of the Archdiocese of Washington, the Albanian Archdiocese, and the Diocese of New England are closed through April 1, 2020.
 
Please click onto the attached letter from Metropolitan TIKHON:  17-Mar-2020:  Letter to Missions Wash Albanian NE 

Immediately following, please find a summary of new guidelines from Metropolitan TIKHON to be used while the US is dealing with the COVID-19 public health episode. 
 
Metropolitan TIKHON states in his guidelines that for the next 2 weeks of March, parishioners should remain at home.  This is temporary measure.   While Metropolitan TIKHON is encouraging all our faithful to remain at home, he will not forbid parishioners from coming to Church.
 
The goal is not to eliminate the Divine Services, but to strictly limit the number of people serving them, and advocating that only the priest, deacon, choir leader and small choir, and 1-2 servers perform the services, as long as they are healthy and of low risk.  Regarding assembly of people, our state and local governments are attempting to restrict large groupings of people to reduce the rate of transmission of this virus. Our Metropolitan has stated that “Out of love for our neighbor, we must do everything we can to protect the vulnerable by slowing the rate of infection - not only in our parishes, but in the greater community”.
 
The decision to stay at home or come to church is an individual and personal one.  Of course, those at higher risk, especially older adults (those over the age of 60) and/or those with serious chronic conditions (diabetes, heart disease, lung disease), should not hesitate to stay home. This is an absence “for honorable reasons”.  Those any who are actively sick or exhibiting signs of illness, or had close contact with someone who is sick, should absolutely absent themselves from the services.
 
The guidelines from Metropolitan TIKHON are for all services to be cancelled except for:
- Sunday Liturgies of St. Basil the Great
- The Vesperal Liturgy of the Great Feast of Annunciation (Wed, March 25th), and 
- Pre-sanctified Liturgies during Great Lent.
 
Specifically, based on these guidelines, the schedule for the next 2 weeks: 
 
St. George will go forward with Pre-Sanctified Liturgy with Holy Ghost this Wednesday, March 18th, 6PM at St. George Church.  
 
Additionally later this week, Divine Liturgy will be held at St. George Church (next Sunday, March 22nd) at 10AM.   Again, Holy Ghost will join St. George.
 
Church School is suspended for the rest of March per instructions of Metropolitan TIKHON. 
 
Additionally all Fellowship hours, coffee hours, potluck suppers are cancelled during this outbreak.
 
The Saturday night Vespers scheduled for March 21st @ St George are cancelled.
 
On Wednesday, March 25th @ 6PM, the Vesperal Liturgy for Annunciation is scheduled to be held @ Holy Ghost.
 
Finally, Divine Liturgy will be at St. George on Sunday, March 29th.  
 
Again, thank you for your patience and compliance.  These guidelines are temporary, however the COVID-19 pandemic is a constant changing situation.  We will continue to communicate any changes as promptly as possible. 
 
Please feel free to call Fr. Sergei if you have questions or concerns: (203) 331–2251 (Mobile) or (203) 713-6007 (Home).
 

As many of you are familiar with, this week, our Public Health officials have officially declared that the Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) a global pandemic.  This has triggered many recommended guidelines for and from our federal government, states, cities, towns, communities, and citizens to follow.  

Additionally, the Holy Synod of Bishops of the OCA just released a statement on the COVID-19 outbreak with suggested measures, as well as encouragement of self-quarantine and social distancing.  A link to that letter can be found on our website, and at the follwoing link:  https://www.oca.org/cdn/PDFs/synod/2020-0313-synod-statement-covid19.pdf

With St. George and Holy Ghost participating in many joint services during Great Lent and throughout the year, Fr. Sergei and Fr. John Jillions have discussed and instituted measures to deal with the containment and mitigation of this virus. Effective immediately, and in a spirit of pastoral care and love, the following changes are being made:
 
-       Bowing in front of icons and the Holy Cross, instead of kissing them;
-       Refraining from embracing each other or giving the Kiss of Peace;
-       Receiving a blessing from the priest without reciprocating by kissing his hand;
-       Receiving Holy Communion by having the priest drop the Holy Gifts directly into our mouths instead of touching the communion spoon with our lips; and
-       Refraining from kissing the chalice or the communion cloth.
 
The process in creatively dealing with the pandemic and our faith requires us to make decisions on what is “essential,” and what is “not.”  Based on this, please note the following:
 
-       Sunday evening Pan-Orthodox Vespers services for the CT Deanery and the Orthodox Churches Association of Greater Bridgeport are suspended for the rest of March. The situation will be re-evaluated at the start of April.
-       St. George will continue to hold liturgical services as scheduled (unless the situation changes), but after Sunday, March 15th, coffee hours, fellowship hours, and potluck dinners will be suspended.
-       If any parishioner feels anxious about coming to church, especially those over the age of 60 and/or those with underlying conditions making them more susceptible to viruses, they should not hesitate to stay home. This is an absence “for honorable reasons,” as one of the prayers of the Church states.

The COVID-19 pandemic is a changing situation, please check back to see if any additional changes in practice are being made.

Please feel free to call Fr. Sergei if you have questions or concerns: (203) 331–2251 (Mobile) or (203) 713-6007 (Home).

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a late directive was issued from Metropolitan Tikhon.
 
This week, beginning today, Sunday March 15th, parishioners are urged to stay home and not attend any services.  We will update everyone later with additional details as they become available. 
 
For those who wish to view a live-stream service today, the following link is from the nuns at Holy Transfiguration Monastery in Ellwood City, PA:   
 http://www.orthodoxmonasteryellwoodcity.org/chapel. On Sundays they normally serve the at hours 8:45 AM, and Divine Liturgy at 9:00 AM.
 
We thank everyone for their patience and compliance. 
 

As we finished the first week of Great Lent, the parish of St. George celebrated Divine Liturgy on the Sunday of Orthodoxy, which is the first Sunday of Great Lent. The first Sunday of Great Lent is called the Sunday of Orthodoxy or the Feast of the Triumph of Orthodoxy. It is a historical feast commemorating the return of the icons to the churches in the year 843.  During the Great Entrance at Divine Liturgy, the children and some parishioners carried their Konizmat icons, returning the Icons back to the church.  Click onto the following link to learn about the Albanian tradition of Konizmat.
 
Finally, click onto the more information link below to view several photos from the procession and returning of Icons.

The entire St George Community wishes to express our deepest condolences on the passing of Victoria Brideau Vitale. Vicky was  the daughter of Jeannie and Jim Brideau, wife of Joseph, mother to Jack and sister to Eric. Memory Eternal!
 

Many thanks to the parishioners of St George, who along with many other groups and individuals throughout Fairfield County, contributed to LifeBridge Community Services during Fairfield County’s Community Foundation’s 7th Annual Giving Day.  Giving Day, which was held on February 27th, is a 24-hour on-line giving marathon that supports Fairfield County communities around their local non-profit missions and causes.  St. George has supported LifeBridge Community Services in past years.  LifeBridge earned the second place Grand Prize prize of $10,000 for most unique (individual) donors. Again, many thanks to all those who contributed!  To learn more about LifeBridge Community Services, click onto the following link:  http://www.lifebridgect.org
 

On Sunday, February 16th, St. George attended Divine Liturgy at Holy Ghost Church in Bridgeport where St George co-hosted with Holy Ghost a visit by missionaries Steve and Theophani Sarigianis. The purpose of the visit was to help raise support for their future missionary work and service in Albania. The couple addressed both parishes with a short presentation after Divine Liturgy.  You can learn more about the Sarigianis and support their mission by making a contribution on their Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) page.  Additionally, St. George extends a thank you to the Holy Ghost community for inviting us to participate in their Mini-Retreat:  “Paul, Prayers, & Pierogies”  which was held on Saturday, February 15th.  Click onto the more information link below to view photos from the weekend. 

The Saint George parish welcomed and hosted the Archdiocesan Lay Vice-Chairman, Michael Gregory on February 2nd.  At the last Archdiocesan Assembly, he was tasked to visit all the parishes of the Archdiocese. After Divine Liturgy in the Church Hall, Michael delivered a short talk, and conducted a question/answer period reviewing the status of several Archdiocesan priorities.

On Sunday, February 2nd, St. George celebrated the Feast of The Meeting of Our Lord in the Temple (referred to as “Papandia” in Albanian). For our Ladies Society, (the Teuta Ladies Society), this day is their Patronal Feast, with this year marking the 89th year of the Ladies Society’s founding.
At the end of the liturgy, the parish children along with the Altar Servers, and members of the Teuta Ladies Society marched in candle-procession, following the icon of the feast, as the feast’s hymns were sung.  At the end of their procession, all stood in prayer vigil for the singing of the feast’s Magnification. 
Adding to the joy of the occasion was the presence of Deacon Spyridon Green, from our Archdiocesan Cathedral in Boston, who joined our Father Sergei in serving the festal liturgy. Click onto the more information link below to view a slideshow of photos. 

We are saddened to learn on Tuesday, January 28th, of the death of Joseph Patria, husband to Millie (Polena) Patria and father to Michael and Guy Patria. The St. George parish extends its condolences to Millie, Michael, Guy and their families.

We were saddened to learn that Christian Tallcouch passed away today, Monday, January 20th.  The St. George parish extends its condolences to the Tallcouch family.  Memory Eternal! 

Many thanks to the parishioners of St. George collected and sent $800 to Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) for the Albanian Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.  To learn more of the OCMC relief efforts, click onto the following link:  https://www.ocmc.org/resources/view_article.aspx?ArticleId=2475

On Sunday, January 12th, the first Sunday after Theophany, the St. George parish conducted the Great Blessing of Water.
In recognition of this significant event, the children marched in the procession around the church following an Icon of the Theophany with candles and containers of water to be blessed.
Adding to the joyous event was the pouring of water that came from the River Jordan that Fr. Sergei brought back from his pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
Click onto the more information link below to view photos of the procession, the blessing of water, and the blessing of the church.

At the first Liturgy of the new year, the Saint George parish will offer special intercessory prayers as we inaugurated not only a New Year, but a new decade and the 95th anniversary of the founding of our church community.  To read a historical narrative of the St. George church’s founding, please click onto the following link:  https://www.stgeorgetrumbull.org/parish_history

Christ is born! Glorify Him!  Krishti U-Lind! Lavdërojeni! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Christmas greetings in both English and Albanian. After the Christmas Day Divine Liturgy, the parish community sang Christmas carols accompanied by the parish children reenactment of the Nativity story in a series of tableaux. Many thanks to Jennifer Goetz, Sue Galich, Anna Bouteneff, Melissa Galich, Erin Galich, and Jackie Goetz for all of the program coordination, James Goetz for narrating, the Choir for leading us with the singing of the carols. Finally, we thank the Parish children for their participation.  Click onto the more information link to view additional photos.

Many years to Christy Kobeli who joined our St. George parish on Christmas Day. 

Thanks to Vi & Jim Bowe, Louise Gallager, Jennifer Goetz, and Bob Lazar for decorating the church for the Christmas season. 

We also wish to thank to our Choir, Choir Directors, and Chanters for their Stewardship of time and talents

At the Christmas Eve services, following the Compline with the blessing of the bread, the parish community sang Christmas carols accompanied by the parish children reenactment of the Nativity story in a series of tableaux. Many thanks to Laura Coughlin, Jennifer Goetz, & Dani Masek for all of the program coordination, TJ Coughlin for narrating, the Choir for leading us with the singing of the carols, and finally we thank the Parish children for their participation.  Click onto the more information link to view additional photos.

Many thanks to Ron Dougiello of the Commerce Hill Funeral Home for donating the beautiful poinsettias for Christmas.

At a joint Divine Liturgy at St. George with Holy Ghost Church, Fr. John Jillions discussed the Icon of the Feast of the Nativity of Christ with the children of both parishes.  Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

Architect’s rendering of the front view of the Trumbull church used for necessary building permit and zoning approvals.  The church was sized to hold 220 people and designed in the shape of a cross.

(Newspaper photo – date unknown). St. George Church at 521 Howard Avenue; located in the West End of Bridgeport. The church (originally St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church) was purchased in1937 and consecrated as St. George Albanian Orthodox Church on September 5, 1938.  The Howard Avenue church was sold in May 1977 as plans evolved to move to a new church in Trumbull.

Fr. Vasil and Prifteresa Efrosinia Mandy.  Fr. Vasil was the first priest of our community in Bridgeport.  Date unknown.

From a local newspaper photo:  Photo of the leaders who directed the drive that built the first St. George Church on Howard Avenue in Bridgeport.  The first Orthodox church services were held in Bridgeport on Palm Sunday, April 12, 1925.  At that time and up to the dedication of the church on Howard Avenue, worship was conducted in various community halls and buildings.    

Lower Row, (left to right): Philip Cotmil, Rev. Vasil Mandy, Rev. Sotir Tallcouch, Louis Theodos.
  
Middle Row, (left to right): Sotir Dmitri, Peter Atanas, Theodore Dionis, Costa Vangel.  

Top Row, (left to right): George Polena, Peter Tallcouch, Unidentified, Costa H. Jordhamo.
 

St. George held it's annual St. Nicholas party for the children of the parish on Sunday, December 8th after Divine Liturgy.  Click onto the more information link to view some photos.

Many thanks to everyone who attended the fashion show hosted by The Women’s Orthodox Council. A special thank you to our ‘models’ Sharon Buzi, Luba Csernica and Kim O’Brien.  You all made the event a huge success. Your donation supports many charities in our neighboring communities and they are grateful.

The parish of St. George extends it's congratulations to Fr. Sergei Bouteneff on the occassion of this 42th Anniversary of his Priestly ordination.  God Grant You Many Years!

The children of St. George and Holy Ghost parishes participated in a joint procession and prayers after Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Entrance of the Virgin Mary into the Temple, which is commemorated on November 21st.  Parishioners of Holy Ghost Church joined the St. George Chuch parish in a joint Divine Liturgy with Fr. Sergei Bouteneff and Fr. John Jillions co-celebrating the Liturgy.  Click on the more information link below to view some photos.

St George hosted a Binky Patrol evening on Friday, November 15th.  Binky Patrol is an all-volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to making blankets and giving them away to children ages 0-18 who are sick, traumatized, grieving or homeless. Over 70 people participated and 130 blankets/binkies were completed and donated. These blankets will be provided to Al’s Angels who will distribule them to children who are sick and experiencing a loss.  Click onto the following links to learn more about Binky Patrol: https://binkypatrol.org/index.cfm and Al's Angels: https://www.alsangels.org/about . Many thanks to Sharon Buzi who organized and coordinated the event. To view photos of the event, click onto the more information link below. 

We were saddened to learn that Janet Caliendo passed away on Monday, November 11th.   The St. George parish extends it’s condolences to Phil, Hope, and Philip, James Glucksnis, and to Mary & John DiIulio, and Esther Darling.  Memory Eternal!

The parishes of St. George and Holy Ghost Church celebrated a joint Divine Liturgy at St. George on Sunday, October 27th.  Click onto the more information link below to view some photos.

The Teuta Ladies Society held it's annual Fall Bazaar on Saturday, October 26th.  A heartful thank you goes out to all who had their hand in assisting with the Bazaar to insure it’s success. The Bazaar is St. George's major fundraising event during the calendar year, and this year our net profit was $10,413!  Click on the more information link below to view a few photos.

Saint George was saddened to hear to the death of Richard ("Ritchie") Vangel on September 21st. Condolences go out to Karen, Lorraine, and the rest of the Vangel family. Memory Eternal!

St. George recently learned that Osman Karaja passed away on Tuesday, September 10th.. We extend our condolences to Osman’s family:  Steffie Karaja, Janus Karaja, Jane Quinn and her husband Brendan, and his grandchildren. Memory Eternal!

On September 8th, after the first Sunday Divine Liturgy after Archbishop Nikon's death, the parish of St. George held a Memorial Service in his memory. Click onto the more information link to view two photos. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi! 

Per the statute of the Orthodox Church in America, the office of the bishop of the Albanian Archdiocese was declared vacant with the death of Archbishop Nikon. His Eminence, Metropolitan Tikhon informed the Holy Synod that he will serve as the Locum Tenens of the Albanian Archdiocese for the immediate future.
As Locum Tenens, Metropolitan Tikhon’s primary responsibility is to see to the election of a new bishop and to maintain the widowed diocese in the interim period. (As is the Orthodox Church practice, when a Diocese loses a Bishop to death, it is referred to as “widowed.”).  Additionally, Metropolitan Tikhon will attend to other administrative and pastoral matters.
Click on the following link to view the attached letter from Metropolitan Tikhon. Albanian Diocese Announcement

We were saddened to learn of the death of Don Jordan.  We extend condolences to wife Shirley; daughter Beth & son-in-law Mike and grandchildren Jordan & John Veneri; and daughter & son-in-law Sue & Tom Batura. Memory Eternal!

His Eminence, the Most Reverend Nikon, Archbishop of Boston, New England, and the Albanian Archdiocese, fell asleep in the Lord on Sunday, September 1, 2019.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Sarah (Arthur) Liolin and dear brothers John and Billy Liolin. He is survived by his devoted & loving brothers, The Very Reverend Arthur Liolin and his wife Margaret of Milton and James Liolin and his wife Christina of NY; in addition he is survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces & grandnephews.

Link to view statements from the Albanian Archdiocese and Diocese of New England - Statements

Link to the OCA Memoriam - https://www.oca.org/in-memoriam/his-eminence-archbishop-nikon

The parish of St. George wishes to congratulate Nikolas Nani on the occasion of his recent Baptism in Albania.  Congratulations are also extended to his parents Ledi and Olsi, and brothers Kosta and Evan. Click onto the more information link to view three photos. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

We were saddened to learn of the passing away of James (Jim) Pando on Wednesday, August 28th.  St. George extends it’s condolences to his wife Mary Ann, daughter Susan (Athanasios) Lazos, and son Michael. Memory Eternal!

The following is a status of some of our young adults currently enrolled in college. We give our best wishes for their continued success!
 
Kristen Babich – Senior majoring in Elementary Education at Saint Joseph's University (Pennsylvania).
John Babich– Freshman attending the University of Maryland.
Henry Brunneau – Sophomore attending the University of Maine.
TJ Coughlin – Senior majoring in Finance at the University of Maryland.
Haley Flynn – Senior majoring in Business, attending the University of New Hampshire.
Eric Flynn - Senior majoring in Business, attending the University of Rhode Island.  
George Goetz - Junior majoring in Business at Penn State.
Jackie Goetz – Senior majoring in Biology at the University of Connecticut.
Carly Jane Nicholas – Junior at Providence College (Rhode Island)
John Veneri - Junior majoring in Business Management attending Coastal Carolina University (South Carolina)
Eve Wight - Senior attending the University of Vermont.
Owen Wight – Sophomore at the University of Connecticut

On Sunday, Aug 18th after Divine Liturgy, volunteers assembled 24 backpacks with school supplies as part of the FOCUS Backpack Drive.  This charity project, coordinated with Holy Ghost Church (Bridgeport) is supporting the middle school students at Roosevelt Middle School in Bridgeport.   Many thanks to the numerous parishioners who donated monies and/or specific supplies required to fill the backpacks.   Also, a heartfelt thank-you to Karen Masek who coordinated the project for St. George. Click onto the more information link below to view a few photos. 

The St. George parish was saddened to learn that Archpriest Steven John Belonick passed away on August 7, 2019.  Before becoming ill, Fr. Steven served at Holy Ghost parish in Bridgeport from 2013 -2017.
Click on the following link to read the OCA Memoriam for Fr. Steven: https://oca.org/in-memoriam/archpriest-steven-belonick  May Father Steven’s memory be eternal!

Congratulations to the following collegians, and to their parents, who were named the 2019 Scholarship Recipients of the Thomas & Katherine LaBache Fund:
 
TJ Coughlin – a senior at the University of Maryland
Kristen Babich – a senior at the St. Joseph University
John Babich – a freshman at the University of Maryland
Jacqueline Goetz – a senior at the University of Connecticut
George Goetz – a junior at Pennsylvania State University
Carly Jane Nicholas – a junior at Providence College
 
The St. George parish offers continued success and best wishes to these young adults.

Congratulations to our 2019 Graduates who recently completed their studies and graduated.  We extend our best wishes to them for continued success!

John Babich - Graduated from Fairfield Warde High School (Fairfield).
Hope Caliendo – Graduated from King’s College (Pennsylvania) with a double-degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology. 
Amy Hurd – Graduated from Bryant University (Rhode Island) with a degree in Data Science.
Jordan Paige Veneri – Graduated from Saint Anselm College (New Hampshire) with a degree in Biology. 
Kristina Tolkuci – Graduated from Arcadia University (Pennsylvania) with a degree in International Business.

Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

On Sunday, July 7th and capitalizing on the celebration of Independence Day, the parish of St. George acknowledged and honored its Veterans and First Responders (police, firefighters, and medical personnel) - the brave who keep us safe. 

St. George was pleased to have been visited by our former pastor, Father Dennis Rhodes on Sunday, July 7th.  Father Dennis co-celebrated Divine Liturgy with Father Sergei Bouteneff.

July 6th marked the 50th anniversary of His Eminence, Archbishop Nikon's ordination to the priesthood. On May 9, 2012, Archbishop Nikon was elevated to the rank of Archbishop.  Many Years!  Për Shumë Vjet!

We continue to pray for Fr. Dennis Rhodes who is volunteering with missionary work in Albania this month. 

St. George recognized Father’s Day with prayers during Liturgy to all of the Fathers, Grandfathers and Godfathers of our Parish community.  Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

St George wishes to thank Fr. John Jillions and the parishioners of Holy Ghost parish for welcoming us to join them for Divine Liturgy on Sunday, May 26th.  Additionally, we thank them for the delicious luncheon and fellowship after services. 

The parish of St. George extends a welcome to Fr John Jillions and the parishioners of Holy Ghost Church.  Fr. Jillions celebrated Divine Liturgy at St. George for both parishes on Sunday, May 19th.  On Sunday, May 26th, the St George parish will join the Holy Ghost Church parish for Divine Liturgy in Bridgeport.

The St. George parish wishes to thank Fr. John Mikitish who served Divine Liturgy the past two weeks.  

On Sunday during Divine Liturgy, St. George remembered all of the living and departed mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, and all the special women in over lives, in prayer.  Additionally, our thanks go out to Ron Dougiello of Commerce Hill Funeral Home, who donated long-stemmed roses which were given out as a gift to all mothers in attendance.

We extend our thanks to the many people who helped to make Lent, Holy Week and Pascha beautiful and meaningful celebrations:

Thank you for the following donations to the Petafi:   Alice Vasil in memory of her husband William and Karen Masek in memory of the Michael Family. 

Donation for the flowers for the Cross on the Petafi in memory of Pandora Dionis, who decorated the Cross for many years: Sandy and Mike Long, Andrea Snedegar and Drew Schoenfeld, Laura and Dave Denisevich, Ted and Janet Dionis and Pauline Dionis.

Thank you to the ‘Myrrh-bearing Women” who decorated the Petafi: Jean Brideau, Mary DiIulio, Louise Karoli Gallagher, Cathy Hotova, Dolores Nauchy, Jeanette Nichio, JoAnn Soter and Pauline Dionis.

A special thanks to Louise Karoli Gallagher for the beautifully dyed and wrapped Pascha Eggs.

Thank you to Ron Dougiello of Commerce Hill Funeral Home in Bridgeport for the lillies to beautify the inside of the church.

Jennifer Goetz for decorating the Church for Holy Pascha.

Fr Sergei Bouteneff who served all the Lenten, Holy Week and Paschal services for us.

The Choir and its Directors, Laura Chadwick and Karen Masek, for their preparation and singing throughout Holy Week and Pascha. 

Cantors Charles Soter and Peter Dacey for their dedication and singing at all the services.

Our volunteer readers. 

Bob Lazar for his assistance in the sanctuary. 

The Altar Servers for their time and assistance. 

Sue Galich and her helpers for organizing the Children’s Egg Hunt and Coffee Hour.

Those who simply came to pray and celebrate the services.

The St. George community recently completed the service cycle of Great Lent and Holy Week to Holy Pascha, with the celebration of the Midnight Paschal Liturgy on April 16th.  Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!  Krishti U-Ngjall! Vërtet U-Ngjall! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Paschal greetings in both English and Albanian.  Click Here to view the Paschal greeting in numerous languages.

Many thanks go out to all that donated items for the Easter baskets for the residents of the Homes of the Brave.  A special meal is being prepared for them on Easter Sunday by Trumbull Helps who will also distribute the baskets. Thank you for making their holiday extra special!

Many thanks for supporting the “Pajama Collection for Children in Poverty.”  The program has been very important to the Orthodox Women's Council.  Thank you for helping make it a success!

Many thanks to Laura Chadwick who published the Weekly Bulletin the past 7 months.  Additionally, we wish to thank Kim O’Brien who has volunteered to take over the preparation of the weekly bulletin going forward - we appreciate her stewardship in taking on this role. 

Our sincere thanks go to Laura Chadwick who has left the Parish Council after serving her term. At the semi-annual Parish Meeting, which was held on February 10th, Laura Coughlin was elected to join the Council for a new 3-year term. Laura joins the current Council members Joe Chadwick, Luba Csernica, Peter Dacey, Joseph Galich, Louise Gallagher, Cathy Hotova, Bill Kovachi. and Bob Lazar. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

The parish of St. George was saddened to learn that Christy Lambert passed away on Friday, February 8th.  We offer our condolences to Katherine, Nancy, and Thomas and their families. Memory eternal!

We welcome back Father Sergei Bouteneff who will fill in for us for the next three months with Archbishop Nikon’s blessing.

We extend our sympathy to Peter Dacey and his family at the loss of their uncle, Peter Costulas.  May Peter’s memory be eternal!

We extend our sympathy to Elsie Gartsu and family on the loss of her sister, Paula Cane.  May Paula’s memory be eternal!
 

The parish of St. George extends a heartfelt welcome to Father John Mikitish who will be serving Divine Liturgy for the month of January.

The parish of St. George extends a heartfelt welcome to Fr John Jillions and the parishioners of Holy Ghost Church. Fr. Jillions gratitiously volunteered to co-celebrate Divine Liturgy on The Feast of Theophany at St. George for both parishes. On Satuirday, Vespers for the Eve of Theophany were hosted and co-celebrated at Holy Ghost Church in Bridgeport. 

We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Gloria Ruseski who passed away this past week.  We also extend our condolences to the family of Barbara Maynard who also passed away this past week.  Memory Eternal.  

At the Christmas Eve services, following the Compline with the blessing of the bread, the parish community sang carols.  The next day on December 25th, the St. George parish celebrated the feast liturgy of the Nativity. This was followed by the traditional carol sing that accompanied our Church School children's reenactment of the Nativity story in a series of tableaux. Many thanks to Jennifer Geotz for all of the program coordination, and to the choir for leading us with the singing of the carols.

Following a pre-Christmas Choir rehearsal, members from the Choir assembled their annual Care Packages to our parish college students.  Snacks, energy bars, and candies were packed and mailed to the students as they begin their final exams before semester break.

We extend our sympathy and prayers to the family of George Terzakis who passed away on Tuesday, November 13.  He is the father of Beth Michael, father-in-law of Mark Michael and grandfather to Michael Moccia and Christopher Michael.  May George’s memory be eternal!

On the occasion of the Veteran's Day Holiday, the St. George parish extends a heartfelt thank you to all our Veterans for their service to our country. May God Grant you Many Years! 

It is the Veteran

It is the Veteran, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion.
It is the Veteran, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the Veteran, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the Veteran, not the campus organizer, who has given us freedom to assemble.
It is the Veteran, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial.
It is the Veteran, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote.
It is the Veteran, who salutes the Flag, 
It is the Veteran, who serves under the Flag, 
To be buried by the flag, 
So the protester can burn the flag.

Author: Anonymous

We extend our sympathy to the family of Judith Petro who passed away on Monday.  She is the wife of Jim and sister-in-law of Irene Billings.  May Judy’s memory be eternal!

The parish of St. George was saddened to learn that Pandora Dionis passed away on November 1st.   Our condolences go out to Sandra, Andrea, Laura, Teddy, and their families.  Memory Eternal!
 

St George held it's annual Fall Bazaar on Saturday, October 27th.  Many thanks to all who had their hand in assisting with the Bazaar in some way - with organizing, set-up, cooking, baking, donating, working the event, and cleaning up at the end. The Bazaar is St. George's major fundraising event during the calnedar year.

We congratulate the following students who are receiving scholarships for 2018 from the Thomas and Katherine LaBache Scholarship Fund:

- Kristen Babich
- Hope Christine Caliendo
- Timothy Coughlin
- George Goetz
- Jacqueline Goetz
- Jennifer Soter
- Kristina Tollkuçi

Many Years!   Për Shumë Vjet!

St. George welcomes Fr. Sergei Bouteneff, who, with the blessing of Archbishop Nikon, began serving Sunday Divine Liturgies while a search for a new pastor is underway.  Many thanks to Father Sergei for helping us during our transition.

St. George celebrated Fr. Dennis Rhodes retirement on Sunday, September 23rd with a Retirement Dinner at Tashua Knolls in Trumbull.  Numerous clergy from the Fellowship of Orthodox Churches of Connecticut and also from the Connecticut Deanery of the Orthodox Church in America joined many parishioners from St. George to thank and celebrate Fr. Dennis's 39 years of Ministry.  

The following is a status of some of our young adults currently enrolled in college. We give our best wishes for their continued success!
 
Kristen Babich –  Junior majoring in Elementary Education at Saint Joseph's University (Pennsylvania).
Hope Caliendo – Senior attending King’s College (Pennsylvania) pursuing a double-major in Criminal Justice and Sociology.     
TJ Coughlin – Junior majoring in Finance at the University of Maryland.
Allie Cryan – Attending Housatonic College majoring in marketing
Haley Flynn – Junior attending the University of New Hampshire.
Eric Flynn - Junior attending the University of Rhode Island.  
George Goetz - Sophomore majoring in Business at Penn State.
Jackie Goetz – Junior majoring in Biology at the University of Connecticut.
Amy Hurd – Senior at Bryant University (Rhode Island).
Kristina Tolkuci – Senior at Arcadia University (Pennsylvania). 
John Veneri - Sophomore majoring in Business Management attending Coastal Carolina University (South Carolina)
Jordan Paige Veneri – Senior attending Saint Anselm College (New Hampshire) majoring in Biology.
Eve Wight - Junior attending the University of Vermont.
Owen Wight – Freshman at the University of Connecticut

On Saturday, September 1st, Malia Jules Green was received in to the Holy Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. Jeanette Nichio was her Godmother. Malia is the daughter of Alicia (Nichio) Green and the granddaughter of Richard & Jeanette Nichio.  Many Years! Për ShumëVjet

On Saturday, August 25th, Mia Keti Bettencourt was received in to the Holy Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. Tom & Priscilla Carameta were the Godparents.  Mia is the daughter of Alfred & Arjana (Vllahu) Bettencourt.  Many Years!  Për Shumë Vjet!

We offer our condolences to Pauline Dionis, whose brother, Joseph Shultz, died on Thursday, August 16th. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

We recently learned that Gowan Dacey, the father of our Parish Vice-President Peter Dacey, fell asleep in the Lord yesterday, August 16th. We offer our condolences to Peter, his mother, Bev, and his entire family at this difficult time.

Gowan’s family has asked that this service be limited to immediate family and invited guests. Therefore, unless you fall into one of those categories, please do not come to the memorial, but extend your condolences with a note or telephone call. A memorial service will be celebrated in Church at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 19th. 

May his memory be eternal!

On Saturday, August 18th, River Madison Davis was received in to the Holy Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. 

River is the daughter of Sarah & Brian Davis, the granddaughter of Kim & John O’Brien, and the great-granddaughter of Toni Barmashi. 

Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

On Saturday, August 11th, Ryan Joseph Moras was received in to the Holy Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. His sponsors were Wayne Moras and Timothy & Sam Tiedemann. Ryan is the son of Michael & Dana Moras and the grandson of Melissa & Wayne Moras. 

Also, at the same time Ryan’s mother, Dana Marie Moras, was received into the Holy Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Confession and Chrismation. Her sponsor was Melissa Moras. 

Many Years!  Për ShumëVjet!

We offer our condolences to Julia Pikulik, whose brother, Stephen Moros, died on Tuesday, August 7th.

On Saturday, July 28th, Evan Joseph Rakowitz was received in to the Holy Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. Evan is the son of Rebecca & Daniel Rakowitz, the grandson of Joe & Laura Chadwick and the great-grandson of Jim & Vi Bowe.

We welcome to Saint George Church today, Fr. Sergei Bouteneff, who is celebrating the Divine Liturgy while Father Dennis is away.

Congratulations to our 2018 Graduate who recently graduated.  We extend our best wishes to him for continued success!

Adam Nichio graduated from Norwalk Community College in the spring with an Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design

 Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

We offer our condolences to Patty Ivanov and her family on the death of her aunt, Jean Nelson, on Monday, July 2, 2108.  Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

We offer our condolences to Susan Galich and her family on the death of her friend, Karen Marlin last Sunday.  Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

We offer our condolences to Father George Lardas and his family on the death of his father, Nicholas Lardas earlier this month. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

St. George recognized Father’s Day with prayers during Liturgy to all of the Fathers, Grandfathers and Godfathers of our Parish community.  Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

St George recognized and celebrated Fr. Dennis' 70th Birthday on Sunday, June 10th. The parish also welcomed his family who joined us for Liturgy and a luncheon.  Many years!

We welcomed to Saint George today His Eminence, Archbishop Nikon who is making his annual Archpastoral visit. We also welcomed Fr. Sergei Bouteneff and Protodeacon Paul Nimchek.

On Monday, June 4th, Mildred Paproski, the mother of Father Peter Paproski, departed this life. We extend our condolences to Father Peter and his entire family.  Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

Congratulations to the Students and Teachers of our Church School as they completed their academic year. Specific thanks to Sue Galich, the Church School Coordinator, and to Melissa Galich and Erin Galich for their help with instruction this year.

We remember today all those who gave their lives in defense of our country. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

On Saturday, May 19th, Nikola Nikola departed this life. He was the brother of the late Steve Nikola. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

On Sunday during Divine Liturgy, the parish of St. George remembered all of the living and departed mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, and all the special women in over lives, in prayer.  Additionally, our thanks go out to Ron Dougiello of Commerce Hill Funeral Home, who donated long-stemmed roses which were given out as a gift to all mothers in attendance.

On Friday, May 11th, Mary Galich, mother of Joe Galich, departed this life. The St. George parish offers our condolences to Joe and his whole family. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

On May 5th, Mira Noelle Bouteneff and Heather Lynn Bouteneff were received into the Holy Orthodox Church through the sacred Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. Mira’s sponsors were Michael Bouteneff and Anna Bouteneff. Heather’s sponsor was Elizabeth Bouteneff.  Mira is the daughter of Serge and Heather Bouteneff and the granddaughter of Fr. Sergei and Lisa Bouteneff.  Many Years!  Për ShumëVjet!

Thank you to all who helped to make last Sunday’s Spring Brunch such a success. We raised over $500.00, which will be given to Tim Halvorsen to support his upcoming Mission trip to Albania.

On March 12, 2018, Evan Joseph was born to Dan and Rebecca (Chadwick) Rakowitz.  Evan is the grandson of Joe and Laura Chadwick and the great-grandson of Jim and Vi Bowe.  Many Years!  Për Shumë Vjet!

The St. George community recently completed the service cycle of Great Lent and Holy Week to Holy Pascha, with the celebration of the Midnight Paschal Liturgy on April 16th.  Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen!  Krishti U-Ngjall! Vërtet U-Ngjall! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Paschal greetings in both English and Albanian.  Click Here to view the Paschal greeting in numerous languages.

We extend our thanks to the many people who helped to make Lent, Holy Week and Pascha beautiful and meaningful celebrations:

·       The “Myrrhbearing Women” –Mary DiIulio, Louise Karoli Gallagher, Dolores Nauchy, JoAnn Soter, Pauline Dionis, Jean Brideau and Jeanette Nichio—who decorated the Petafi on Holy Friday morning.

·       Alice Vasil, who donated toward the Petafi flowers and Easter Eggs in memory of her husband William Vasil.

·       Karen Masek, who also donated toward the Petafi flower in memory of the departed members of the Michael Family.

·       Nancy and Wally Hurd, who also donated toward the Petafi flowers in memory of Andrew Yapo.

·       Louise Karoli Gallagher, who also donated toward the Petafi flowers in memory of James Gallagher.

·       Jennifer Goetz for decorating the Church for Holy Pascha.

·       Mary DiIulio for the new bows which adorn the Paschal Banner.

·       Ron Dougiello of Commerce Hill Funeral Home in Bridgeport for the lilies that beautify the inside of the Church.

·       The Teuta Ladies Society for the beautiful red eggs.

·       Cantors Charles Soter and Peter Dacey for their dedication and singing at all the services.

·       The Choir and its Choir Directors, Karen Masek and Laura Chadwick for their preparation and singing throughout Holy Week and Pascha.

·       Our volunteer readers.

·       Bob Lazar for his assistance in the sanctuary.

·       The Altar Servers for their time and assistance.

·       Sue Galich and her helpers for organizing the Children’s Egg Hunt and Coffee Hour.

Those who simply came to pray and celebrate the services.

We offer our congratulations to Nicole Marie Dionis, who was received into the Holy Orthodox Church on Holy Saturday through the Mystery of Chrismation. Laura Denisevich is her sponsor.  Nicole is the wife of Curt Dionis and the mother of Sophie and Brooke.  Many Years!  Për Shumë Vjet!

We extend our gratitude to the family of James Dionis for donating to our Church several books from his collection:  A commemorative album from the 50th Anniversary of the Albanian Archdiocese, and two Albanian-language service books. Thank you!  And may James’ Memory be eternal!

Thank you for the outpouring of support for Fairfield County Giving Day on March 1st.  Your contributions helped LifeBridge come in second place for unique donors, which earned a $10,000 bonus for the children and families who benefit from our many services. You are making an important difference in our community. I greatly appreciate your willingness to help me help others.  Thank you for your love and support.  Laura Coughlin

On Saturday, March 10, 2018, our good friend and parishioner and chanter, Van Michael departed this life. We extend our condolences to his wife, Diana, his children Laura Coughlin and Jonathan Michael, and his grandchildren Kelly and TJ Coughlin, and Alexandria Michael.

On Saturday, March 3rd, Wayne Joseph, III, and Greyson Cole Moras were received into the Holy Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. Their Godparents were Michael & Dana Moras and Chad & Holly Walter. The boys are the children of Wayne & Lauren Moras and the grandchildren of Wayne & Melissa Moras. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet! 

On Monday, February 26th, Eileen Bochino, mother of Jeff Jaworski and grandmother of Jason Jaworski and Amy Leighton, departed this life at the age of 91.  Her funeral was held on Friday, March 2nd.  May her memory be eternal!

We learned this week of the deaths of Lawrence Beck, Father-in-Law of Fr. Peter Paproski, and Matushka Barbara Kucynda , the wife of the Pastor of Jennifer Goetz’ home parish and an old friend of Father Dennis’. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

We congratulate today the members of the Teuta Ladies’ Society on their celebration of their Patronal Feast Day, the Meeting of the Lord - "Papandia".

We extend our sympathy: to the Buzi Family on the death in December of their friend, Kevin Donnelly; and to Shirley Jordan on the death last Saturday of her cousin James Balta.  Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

We extend our sympathy to Carol Jaworski on the recent deaths of her cousins, Nico Mallozzi and James Pandeli.  Memory Eternal!  I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

On January 21st at the General Parish Meeting, we elected the Parish Council for 2018. With the blessing of Archbishop Nikon, they are being installed in office today. They are: Bill Kovachi, Chairman; Peter Dacey, Vice-Chairman; Cathy Hotova, Treasurer; Luba Csernica, Financial Secretary; Louise Gallagher, Recording Secretary; Laura Chadwick, Corresponding Secretary; Joe Chadwick, Corresponding Secretary; Bob Lazar, Building and Grounds; and Joe Galich, Building and Grounds.  Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

On Sunday, January 14th, Nicole Dionis, wife of Curt Dionis, was enrolled as a Catechumen, in preparation for formally entering the Holy Orthodox Church. Her sponsor is Laura Denisevich. Many Years!  Për Shumë Vjet!

On Monday, January 8th, His Grace, Bishop Mark (Forsberg), former bishop of our Archdiocese, fell asleep in the Lord.

On Thursday, January 11th, Richard Taylor, Jr., also fell asleep in the Lord. A wake for Richard will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. tomorrow evening, January 15th, at Abriola Parkway Funeral Home on White Plains Road in Trumbull. A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 16th, in Christ the King Catholic Church on Madison Avenue in Trumbull.

Memory Eternal!  I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

We ask God’s blessings upon Linley Faith Hirst who was received into the Orthodox Church yesterday through the Mysteries of Holy Baptism and Chrismation. Peter Hirst and Sophia Sak were the Godparents. She is the daughter of David and Allyson (Themel) Hirst, and the granddaughter of Peter and Cheryl Themel. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

We extend our sympathy to Fr. Stephen & Debra Masliuk on the death of their son, Benjamin. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

Christ is born! Glorify Him!  Krishti U-Lind! Lavdërojeni! are the traditional Orthodox Christian Christmas greetings in both English and Albanian. The St. George Community recently completed the service cycle of Advent with the Christmas Eve Festal Matins (including a traditional singing of Christmas Carols after services), and Divine Liturgy, for the Nativity of the Lord.

On December 10, 2017, Grace Louise was born to Lara (Lazar) and Peter Kokenos.  We offer our congratulations to the parents, to big brothers Andrew & Jeremy and to grandparents Bob & Linda Lazar.  Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

Saint George Church recently received a $10,000.00 bequest from the estate of Florence Chala. In accordance with the terms of her will, $5,000.00 will be set aside for the beautification of the Church. The other $5,000.00 will be available for regular expenses. We thank Florence for remembering Saint George Church in her will. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

We congratulate the following young people who are receiving scholarships from the Thomas and Katherine LaBache Scholarship Fund:

• Jonathan Avila
• Kristen Babich
• Hope Caliendo
• Timothy Coughlin
• George Goetz
• Jacqueline Goetz
• Kristina Tollkuçi

Many Years!   Për Shumë Vjet!

Sarah and Brian Davis welcomed a baby girl, River Madison, on October 17, 2017.  Her grandparents are Kim and John O’Brien and her great-grandmother is Toni Barmashi. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet

We offer prayers today for the Albanian people and nation in honor of Albanian Flag Day—Ditë e Flamurit.  Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

We extend our condolences to the families of the following individuals who died recently:  Hortense Kelly, mother of Cheryl Adams, Albert Masek, Sr., father-in-law of Karen Masek, Valentina Rhodes, ex-wife of Fr. Dennis.  Memory Eternal! I Përjeshim Kujtimi!

During this Veteran’s Day weekend, we extend our heart-felt gratitude to all those who serve and have served our country in the Armed Forces. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

We learned of the death on October 23^rd, of Matushka Marie Kreta, the mother of Fr. John Kreta and mother-in-law of Evelyn Leka Kreta. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

We extend our gratitude to everyone who worked so hard to make yesterday’s Teuta Ladies’ Society Bazaar a success.  Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

We learned of the death on October 18^th, of Virginia Cook, the sister-in-law of Fr. George Coca.  Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

On Sunday, September 24^th, our good friend and faithful parishioner, George Barmashi, departed this life, leaving behind his wife, Antonette and his daughter Kimberly and her family. May George’s memory be eternal!

We prayed today for the students and teachers of our Church School as they begin another year of instruction.  Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

We offer our sympathy to Fr. George Coca and his family on the death of his niece, Patricia Cook Johnson, who departed this life on September 6^th.  Memory Eternal!  I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

The following is a status of some of our young adults currently enrolled in college. We give our best wishes for their continued success!

Jonathan Avila –Sophomore at Housatonic Community College.

Kristen Babich –  Sophomore majoring in Elementary Education at Saint Joseph's University (Pennsylvania).

Hope Caliendo – Sophomore attending King’s College (Pennsylvania) majoring in Early Childhood education.

TJ Coughlin – Sophomore majoring in Engineering at the University of Maryland.

Allison Cryan – Attending Housatonic College pursuing a degree in marketing.   

Haley Flynn – Sophomore attending the University of New Hampshire.

Eric Flynn - Sophomore attending the University of Rhode Island.  

George Goetz - Freshman majoring in Engineering and Business at Penn State.

Jackie Goetz – Sophomore majoring in Biology at the University of Connecticut.

Amy Hurd – Junior at Bryant University (Rhode Island).

Adam Nichio – Senior majoring in Photography at Norwalk Community College. 

Anthony Nichio – Senior majoring in Finance at the University of Connecticut.

Kristina Tolkuci – Junior at Arcadia University (Pennsylvania). 

John Veneri - Freshman attending Cape Cod Community College

Jordan Paige Veneri – Junior attending Saint Anselm College (New Hampshire) majoring in Biology.

Eve Wight - Sophomore attending the University of Vermont.

St George offered special prayers today during Divine Liturgy for all those who have been affected by the recent hurricanes, fires, earthquakes and other disasters throughout the world.

We congratulate Wayne and Lauren Moras on the birth of their twin sons, Wayne Joseph and Greyson Cole, on July 7^th. We also congratulate the grandparents, Wayne and Melissa Moras. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

We welcomed to Saint George today Father Sergei Bouteneff who is celebrating the Divine Liturgy while Father Dennis was away.  

On Saturday, July 1^st, Violet Polena fell asleep in the Lord. We offer our condolences to her sisters Addy Coppola and Evelyn Melnikoff and their families.  Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

Congratulations to our young adults who recently graduated. We extend our best wishes to them for continued success!

• Victoria Demetri – Received her Associates Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics at Gateway Community College.
• George Goetz - graduated from Weston High School.

 Many Years!         Për Shumë Vjet!

For Father's Day, St. George recognized all of the living and departed Fathers, Grandfathers and Godfathers of our Parish community with prayers during Divine Liturgy. Many Years!  Për Shumë Vjet!

We have learned of the death of T. John Cook, who passed away on Sunday, May 28, 2017. He was the brother of Fr. George Coca.  Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

St. George remembered today all those who gave their lives in defense of our country.  Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!

On Sunday, May 21^st, we welcomed Madelyn Leighton into the Holy Orthodox Church through the Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. Sophie is the daughter of Brian and Amy Leighton, the granddaughter of Jeffrey and Carol Jaworski and great-granddaughter of Eileen Bocchino. Jason Jaworski and Sarah Leighton were her godparents. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

We congratulate the students and teachers of our Church School as they complete their school year. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

Yesterday we welcomed Sophie Masek into the Holy Orthodox Church through the mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation. Sophie is the daughter of Matthew and Jeannine Masek, the granddaughter of Karen and Al Masek and great-granddaughter of Zoe Michael. Michael Masek and Jennifer Waterman were the godparents. Many Years! Për Shumë Vjet!

We offer our condolences to Luba Geeza and her family on the death last week of Luba’s brother-in–law, Michael Arendacs. Memory Eternal! I Përjetshim Kujtimi!