Weekly Update - April 18

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"Man sentenced God to death; by His Resurrection, He sentenced man to immortality. In return for a beating, He gives an embrace; for abuse, a blessing; for death, immortality. Man never showed so much hate for God as when he crucified Him; and God never showed more love for man than when He arose. Man even wanted to reduce God to a mortal, but God by His Resurrection made man immortal. The crucified God is Risen and has killed death. Death is no more. Immortality has surrounded man and all the world."

+ St. Justin Popovich +

 

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

Our Thoughts & Mental Health: An Orthodox Perspective  by Father Maximos of Simonopetra

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Monday: Divine Liturgy 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School 7:00 p.m. (Topic: Blessed are the persecuted)

Wednesday: Divine Liturgy 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Friday: Unction & Divine Liturgy 3:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Holy Week Schedule

See the service schedule page of the website for the entire Holy Week Schedule for Sorrento Valley and Oceanside (including the last Friday of Lent, Lazarus Saturday, & Palm Sunday)

Palm Weaving

All the children of Holy Cross are invited to weave palms in preparation for Our Savior's Entry into Jerusalem. The palm weaving will be held at the church on Saturday 23 April from 3:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.

ST. ATHANASIUS CATECHETICAL SCHOOL

Current course: The Sermon on the Mount

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 20 April, Holy Cross will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

WEBSITE & HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to take some time to check out the parish website:

holycross-orthodox.org

All are also encouraged to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

 

Amazon Smile

If you use Amazon, .5% of your eligible purchases can now be donated to Holy Cross. Make sure to log on to http://smile.amazon.com (NOT amazon.com) and choose Holy Cross Coptic Orthodox Church (Diamond Bar, CA).

 

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

May God bless and reward all of you who have so diligently offered food and helped to clean!

Weekly Update - April 11

The Ladder of Divine Ascent

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"The first stage of this tranquility consists in silencing the lips when the heart is excited. The second, in silencing the mind when the soul is still excited. The goal is a perfect peacefulness even in the middle of the raging storm."

+ St. John Climacus +

 

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

The Three Stages of the Spiritual Life by Father Zacharias Zacharou 

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Monday: Divine Liturgy 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School 7:00 p.m. (Topic: Blessed are the peacemakers)

Wednesday: Divine Liturgy 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Friday: Divine Liturgy 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Friday: St. Katherine Fellowship 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (Talk title: "Broken World: Finding Our Humanity in the Refugee Crisis")

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (with Met. Serapion)

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Sunday: Pan-Orthodox Vespers (St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church) 6:00 p.m.

 

FASTING GREAT LENT

We are now mid-way through the Lenten season, but it is not too late to seek out spiritual guidance with regards to how to fast. Do not take it upon yourself to make a rule of fasting for yourself. And remember that if you are not keeping the fast, you may not approach partake of Holy Communion.

It is also very important that each of us participates in the mystery of confession. It is highly recommended that every member of the Church confess at least twice during the Lenten season.

 

Metropolitan Serapion Visit

On Saturday 16 April His Eminence Metropolitan Serapion will join us for vespers at 6:00 p.m. Vespers will be followed by a light meal before we pray the midnight praises. 

If you would like to contribute to the refreshments that will be served, please contact Tasoni Maryann.

 

ST. ATHANASIUS CATECHETICAL SCHOOL

Current course: The Sermon on the Mount

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

 

Pan-Orthodox Vespers

Each Sunday of Great Lent the Eastern Orthodox Clergy Council of San Diego is sponsoring pan-Orthodox Vespers. The schedule si posted on the bulletin board at church, but can also be found here.

 

CATECHISM COURSE

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: The Mystery of the Priesthood

 

Amazon Smile

If you use Amazon, .5% of your eligible purchases can now be donated to Holy Cross. Make sure to log on to http://smile.amazon.com (NOT amazon.com) and choose Holy Cross Coptic Orthodox Church (Diamond Bar, CA).

 

WEBSITE & HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to take some time to check out the parish website:

holycross-orthodox.org

All are also encouraged to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

 

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

May God bless and reward all of you who have so diligently offered food and helped to clean!

Weekly Update - April 4

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"Today are strains of praise sung joyfully by the choir of angels, and the light of the advent of Christ shines brightly upon the faithful. Today is the glad spring-time to us, and Christ the Sun of righteousness has beamed with clear light around us, and has illumined the minds of the faithful. Today is Adam made anew, and moves in the choir of angels, having winged his way to heaven. Today is the whole circle of the earth filled with joy, since the sojourn of the Holy Spirit has been realized to men."

+ St Gregory the Wonderworker (Homily on the Annunciation) +

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

Homily on the Annunciation to the Holy Virgin Mary by St. Gregory the Wonderworker

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Monday: Divine Liturgy 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School 7:00 p.m. (Topic: Blessed are the pure in heart)

Wednesday: Divine Liturgy 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday: Focus service: 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (for Orthodox Young Adults - come anytime)

Thursday: Feast of the Annunciation liturgy: 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Friday: Divine Liturgy 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Sunday: Pan-Orthodox Vespers (St. John of Kronstadt Orthodox Church) 6:00 p.m.

FASTING GREAT LENT

We are now mid-way through the Lenten season, but it is not too late to seek out spiritual guidance with regards to how to fast. Do not take it upon yourself to make a rule of fasting for yourself. And remember that if you are not keeping the fast, you may not approach partake of Holy Communion.

It is also very important that each of us participates in the mystery of confession. It is highly recommended that every member of the Church confess at least twice during the Lenten season.

ST. ATHANASIUS CATECHETICAL SCHOOL

Current course: The Sermon on the Mount

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

Pan-Orthodox Vespers

Each Sunday of Great Lent the Eastern Orthodox Clergy Council of San Diego is sponsoring pan-Orthodox Vespers. The schedule si posted on the bulletin board at church, but can also be found here.

CATECHISM COURSE

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: The Mystery of the Priesthood

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 6 April, the Orthodox Young Adults of San Diego will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

WEBSITE & HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to take some time to check out the parish website:

holycross-orthodox.org

All are also encouraged to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

May God bless and reward all of you who have so diligently offered food and helped to clean!

Weekly Update - March 28

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"God has given me the gift of freedom for no other reason than that I should return it to Him. But if I seek instead to retain my freedom in a selfish, egotistical way, I shall become a slave of mindless impulse and desire."

+ Elder Aimilianos +

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

An Orthodox Understanding of the Thoughts (Logismoi) - excerpt from The Mountain of Silence

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Monday: Divine Liturgy 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday: NO MEETING: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (will resume next week)

Wednesday: NO DIVINE LITURGY

Wednesday: Focus service: 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (come anytime)

Friday: Divine Liturgy 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Friday: St. Katherine Young Adult Fellowship 7:00 p.m. (Topic: Healing Fear - part 2)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Sunday: Pan-Orthodox Vespers (St. Katherine Orthodox Mission) 6:00 p.m.

FASTING GREAT LENT

As we continue our journey through the Lenten season, it is important that each of us receives spiritual guidance with regards to how to fast. Do not take it upon yourself to make a rule of fasting for yourself. And remember that if you are not keeping the fast, you may not approach partake of Holy Communion.

It is also very important that each of us participates in the mystery of confession. It is highly recommended that every member of the Church confess at least twice during the Lenten season.

ST. ATHANASIUS CATECHETICAL SCHOOL

Current course: The Sermon on the Mount

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

Pan-Orthodox Vespers

Each Sunday of Great Lent the Eastern Orthodox Clergy Council of San Diego is sponsoring pan-Orthodox Vespers. The schedule si posted on the bulletin board at church, but can also be found here.

CATECHISM COURSE

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: The Mystery of Confession

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 30 March, we will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

WEBSITE & HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to take some time to check out the parish website:

holycross-orthodox.org

All are also encouraged to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - March 21

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"How many sins originate from the fact that we want to live well on earth and do not believe wholeheartedly in the future, blessed life?"

+ St. John of Kronstadt +

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

St. John Climacus on repentance

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Monday: Divine Liturgy 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Blessed are the merciful): 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday: Divine Liturgy 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday: Focus service: 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (come anytime)

Friday: Divine Liturgy 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Sunday: Pan-Orthodox Vespers (St. George Serbian) 6:00 p.m.

FASTING GREAT LENT

As we begin the Holy and Great Fast, it is important that each of us receives spiritual guidance with regards to how to fast. Do not take it upon yourself to make a rule of fasting for yourself. And remember that if you are not keeping the fast, you may not approach partake of Holy Communion.

ST. ATHANASIUS CATECHETICAL SCHOOL

Announcing new course: The Sermon on the Mount

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

Pan-Orthodox Vespers

Each Sunday of Great Lent the Eastern Orthodox Clergy Council of San Diego is sponsoring pan-Orthodox Vespers. The schedule si posted on the bulletin board at church, but can also be found here.

CATECHISM COURSE

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: The Mystery of the Eucharist

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 23 March, we will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

WEBSITE & HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to take some time to check out the parish website:

holycross-orthodox.org

All are also encouraged to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - March 14

Quote of the Week

"Fasting is a concrete, visible sign that separates us from all that is earthly, fallen, and demonic. Any slackening of the conscience, however slight, with respect to fasting, introduces an unhealthy relaxation into our entire being — body and soul — so that God is not able to speak to the heart of a person who does not fast."

+ Elder Aimilianos +

For Your Edification

Resources about fasting

 

Services & Events this Week

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Monday: Divine Liturgy 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Those who hunger and thirst): 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday: Divine Liturgy 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday: Focus service: 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (come anytime)

Friday: Divine Liturgy 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Friday: Vespers for Feast of the Cross: 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Saturday: Feast of the Cross Divine Liturgy 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Fasting Great Lent

As we begin the Holy and Great Fast, it is important that each of us receives spiritual guidance with regards to how to fast. Do not take it upon yourself to make a rule of fasting for yourself. And remember that if you are not keeping the fast, you may not approach partake of Holy Communion.

St. Athanasius Catechetical School

Announcing new course: The Sermon on the Mount

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

Catechism Course

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: The Mystery of the Eucharist

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 16 March, we will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

Website & Hymns

We encourage all congregants to take some time to check out the parish website:

holycross-orthodox.org

All are also encouraged to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

Food & Clean-Up

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - March 7

Quote of the Week

"Be cheerful since the Physician has given you sin-destroying medicine [fasting]."

+ St. Basil the Great +

For Your Edification

On Accomplishing the Days of the Fast Gently and Readily in the Hope of Life Without End 

— A short homily by St. Theodore the Studite

 

Services & Events this Week

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Monday: Divine Liturgy 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: The meek): 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday: Divine Liturgy 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Friday: Divine Liturgy 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, & Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Matins 6:45 a.m., followed by adult baptism (at St. Anthony Antiochian) 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m., followed by Divine Liturgy (at Holy Cross) 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Sorrento)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Axios! Axios! Axios!

On Sunday 28 February 2016 our beloved bishop was elevated to the rank of metropolitan. His Eminence Metropolitan Serapion returns stateside on Tuesday 8 March and will be at St. Mark Coptic Orthodox Church in Los Angeles for prayers at 6:00 p.m. Everyone is invited to greet His Eminence upon his return.

Fasting Great Lent

As we begin the Holy and Great Fast, it is important that each of us receives spiritual guidance with regards to how to fast. Do not take it upon yourself to make a rule of fasting for yourself. And remember that if you are not keeping the fast, you may not approach partake of Holy Communion.

St. Athanasius Catechetical School

Announcing new course: The Sermon on the Mount

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

Catechism Course

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: The Mystery of Chrismation

Website & Hymns

We encourage all congregants to take some time to check out the parish website:

holycross-orthodox.org

All are also encouraged to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

Food & Clean-Up

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - February 29

Quote of the Week

"This life has been given to you for repentance; do not waste it in vain pursuits."

+ St. Isaac the Syrian +

For Your Edification

Self-Emptying Prayer by Fr. Stephen Freeman

 

Services & Events this Week

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Those who Mourn): 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday: FOCUS service at God's Extended Hand: 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (join anytime)

Friday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: St. Katherine Young Adult Fellowship 7:00 p.m. (Topic: The Passion of Fear)

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, & Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Sorrento)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Axios! Axios! Axios!

On Sunday 28 February 2016 our beloved bishop was elevated to the rank of metropolitan. May God grant His Eminence Metropolitan Serapion many years to shepherd His flock in peace.

Great Lent

The Holy and Great fast begins on Monday 7 March. Begin preparing yourselves for this beautiful time of the year that our Holy Mother the Church gives to us for repentance.

St. Athanasius Catechetical School

Announcing new course: The Sermon on the Mount

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

Catechism Course

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: Baptism

FOCUS

This Wednesday,  2 March the young Orthodox Christian adults of San Diego will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

Website & Hymns

We encourage all congregants to take some time to check out the parish website:

holycross-orthodox.org

All are also encouraged to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

Food & Clean-Up

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - February 22

Quote of the Week

"When we examine the story of Jonah, great is the force of the resemblance [between Jonah and Christ]. Jesus was sent to ‎preach repentance; Jonah also was sent: but whereas the one fled, not knowing what should come to pass; ‎the other came willingly, to give repentance unto salvation. Jonah was asleep in the ship, and snoring ‎amidst the stormy sea; while Jesus also slept, the sea, according to God’s providence, began to rise, to show ‎in the sequel the might of Him who slept. To the one they said, 'Why are you sleeping? Arise, call ‎your God, that God may save us;' but in the other case they say unto the Master, 'Lord, save us.' Then ‎they said, 'Call upon thy God'; here they say, 'save Thou'. But the one says, 'Take me, and cast me into the ‎sea; so shall the sea be calm unto you'; the other, Himself rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a ‎great calm. The one was cast into a whale’s belly: but the other of His own accord went down, where the ‎invisible whale of death is. And He went down of His own accord, that death might cast up those whom he ‎had devoured, according to that which is written, 'I will ransom them from the power of the grave; and from ‎the hand of death I will redeem them'."

+ St. Cyril of Jerusalem +

For Your Edification

Death to the World

 

Services & Events this Week

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Jonah's Fast 22-24 February — Strict Fasting

Monday: Divine Liturgy 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday: FOCUS service at God's Extended Hand: 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (join anytime)

Thursday: Jonah's Feast Divine Liturgy 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Thursday: SD Orthodox Young Adults Vespers & Potluck 6:30 p.m. (at Holy Cross)

Friday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, & Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

St. Athanasius Catechetical School

Announcing new course: The Sermon on the Mount

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

Catechism Course

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: The Church & The Holy Mother of God

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 24 February, we will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

Website & Hymns

We encourage all congregants to take some time to check out the parish website:

holycross-orthodox.org

All are also encouraged to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

Food & Clean-Up

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - February 15

Quote of the Week

"But you are not in darkness, brethren, for that day to surprise you like a thief. For you are all sons of light and sons of the day; we are not of the night or of darkness. So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober. For those who sleep sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. But, since we belong to the day, let us be sober, and put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we wake or sleep we might live with him."

+ 1 Thessalonians 5:4-10, RSV +

For Your Edification

The Presentation of the Lord in the Temple

 

Services & Events this Week

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy - Presentation of the Lord in the Temple  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Poor in Spirit): 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday: FOCUS service at God's Extended Hand: 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (join anytime)

Friday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, & Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple

This Tuesday, 16 February, we commemorate the Presentation of our Lord in the Temple. We will pray the Divine Liturgy at 6:00 a.m.

St. Athanasius Catechetical School

Announcing new course: The Sermon on the Mount

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

Catechism Course

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: The Holy Spirit

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 17 February, we will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

Website & Hymns

We encourage all congregants to take some time to check out the parish website:

holycross-orthodox.org

All are also encouraged to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

Food & Clean-Up

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - February 8

Elder Aimilianos

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"Whether we believe or not, we belong to God. Whether we understand it or not, or feel His presence or not, or rejoice in that presence or not, He exists. He is my God. He is my Lord. Even during moments of darkness and terror, when God doesn’t exist for me, He still exists. When I feel I’m a failure, when all my efforts seem fruitless, when my life seems to have passed in vain, Christ is still my Christ. He is there for me no matter what happens. He exists irrespective of my capabilities, capacities, and comprehension. I might imagine that God is small. But God is great. I might think that God doesn’t hear. But He does. And He has given Himself entirely to me, so that there’s only one possibility of failure: for me to break off my relationship with the 'One Who Is' (Ex. 3:14)."

+ Elder Aimilianos of Simonaspetra Monstery, Mt. Athos

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

Be not Afraid (video)

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Praying  to & with the Dead): 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Friday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: St. Katherine Young Adult Fellowship (topic: The Lord’s Prayer – part 2): 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, & Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

ST. ATHANASIUS CATECHETICAL SCHOOL

The "Mystery of Death" course continues on Tuesday 9 February.

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

CATECHISM COURSE

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: Faith & Repentance: Two Sides of the Same Coin

HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - February 1

Quote of the Week

Grant unto me, my Lord, that with peace of mind I may face all that this new day is to bring.  Grant unto me grace to surrender myself completely to Thy holy will.  For every hour of this day instruct and prepare me in all things.  Whatsoever tidings I may receive during the day, do Thou teach me to accept tranquilly, in the firm conviction that all eventualities fulfill Thy holy will.  Govern Thou my thoughts and feelings in all I do and say.  When things unforeseen occur, let me not forget that all cometh down from Thee. Teach me to behave sincerely and reasonably toward everyone, that I may bring confusion and sorrow to none.  Bestow upon me, my Lord, strength to endure the fatigue of the day and to bear my part in all its passing events.  Guide Thou my will and teach me to pray, to believe, to hope, to suffer, to forgive, and to love.  Amen.

+ Optina Morning Prayer +

For Your Edification

The Letters of St. Antony the Great

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Praying  for the Dead): 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday: FOCUS service at God's Extended Hand: 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (join anytime)

Friday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, & Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Saturday: Vespers: 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. (note: time change & no midnight praise - only this week)

Saturday: Life-Giving Spring Benefit Dinner (see below): 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

ST. ATHANASIUS CATECHETICAL SCHOOL

The "Mystery of Death" course continues on Tuesday 2 February.

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

Catechism Course

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: Christ the Savior

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 3 February, the Orthodox Young Adults of San Diego will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

Life-Giving Spring Benefit Dinner

A benefit dinner will be held for additions to the Life-Giving Spring women's monastery in Dunlap, CA at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church on Saturday 6 February.

3459 Manchester Avenue, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA 92007

Click here for details

Hymns

We encourage all congregants to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

Food & Clean-up

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - January 25

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"The Most Holy Mother of God prays for us ceaselessly. She is always visiting us. Whenever we turn to her in our heart, she is there. After the Lord, she is the greatest protection for mankind. How many churches there are in the world that are dedicated to the Most Holy Mother of God! How many healing springs where people are cured of their ailments have sprung up in places where the Most Holy Theotokos appeared and blessed those springs to heal both the sick and the healthy! She is constantly, by our side, and all too often we forget her."

+ Elder Thaddeus of Vitovnica

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

Church Fathers on the Dormition of the Theotokos

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Toll Houses): 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday: FOCUS service at God's Extended Hand: 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. (join anytime)

Friday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, & Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Friday: St. Katherine Young Adult Fellowship (topic: Same-Sex marriage): 7:00 p.m.

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy for Dormition 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos

This Saturday, 30 January, we commemorate the Dormition of the Theotokos. We will pray the Diine Liturgy at 8:00 a.m.

ST. ATHANASIUS CATECHETICAL SCHOOL

The "Mystery of Death" course continues on Tuesday 26 January.

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

CATECHISM COURSE

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: The Son of God

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 20 January, we will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - January 18

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“The beginning of the world - water; the beginning of the Good News - Jordan.” 

 + St. Cyril of Jerusalem

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

Hymns for the Feast of Theophany — St. Ephraim the Syrian

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: No Liturgy in the morning

Tuesday: Feast of Theophany (followed by agape potluck meal): 6:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Feast of Theophany: 6:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Wednesday: FOCUS service at God's Extended Hand

Friday: Divine Liturgy  (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, & Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

FEAST OF THEOPHANY

The Feast of the Theophany Service will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday 19 January.

Note: Tuesday is a day of strict fasting.

If you wish to partake of Holy Communion on the feast day, you must begin fasting for the Divine Liturgy by 1:30 p.m.

FEAST POTLUCK

Please consider bringing something to share for the agape meal after the Feast of the Theophany Liturgy.  Please contact Tasoni Maryann for details.

ST. ATHANASIUS CATECHETICAL SCHOOL

No lecture on Tuesday 19 January as we will be celebrating Theophany.

The "Mystery of Death" course will resume on Tuesday 26 January.

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

CATECHISM COURSE

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: Sin

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 20 January, we will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - January 11

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“[The poor] come offering their very heart in exchange for food. And yet not only is your hand not stricken with paralysis for taking profits from such misfortune, but you haggle for even more! … Tears do not move you, groans do not soften your heart, but you remain adamant and unbending” 

 + St. Basil the Great

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

St. Paisios the Athonite — a film (with english subtitles)

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Dying in Christ): 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday: Divine Liturgy - Feast of the Circumsicion & of St. Basil the Great (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: St. Katherine Young Adult Fellowship: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (Topic: The Lord's Prayer - part 1)

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, & Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

ST. ATHANASIUS CATECHETICAL SCHOOL

New Course

This Tuesday, 12 January, we will continue a series of lectures for a new course entitled "The Mystery of Death."

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

CATECHISM COURSE

The Holy Cross Catechism course has begun and will continue to meet after the agape meal every Sunday. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Upcoming lecture: An Orthodox Christian Anthropology

FEAST OF THEOPHANY

The Feast of the Theophany Service will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday 19 January

FEAST POTLUCK

Please consider bringing something to share for the agape meal after the Feast of the Theophany Liturgy.  Please contact Tasoni Maryann for details.

HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - January 4

Quote of the Week

"The Lord, before His Incarnation, let mankind experience all the bitterness of sin, all their powerlessness to eradicate it; and when all longed for a Deliverer, then He appeared, the most wise, all-powerful Physician and Helper. When men hungered and thirsted after righteousness, as it grew weaker, then the everlasting righteousness came."

+ St. John of Kronstadt

For Your Edification

Thy Nativity O Christ Our God — meditations on the Nativity of our Savior (video)

 

Services & Events This Week

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: The Mystery of Death): 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday: Nativity Liturgy: 8:00 p.m. (Sorrento & Oceanside)

Friday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, & Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Midnight Praise: 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

St. Athanasius Catechetical School

New Course

Beginning on Tuesday 5 January we will begin a new course entitled: The Mystery of Death.

Please click here for the the schedule of lectures.

Feast of the Nativity

The Feast of the Nativity Service will begin at 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday 6 January

Fr. Pimen is encouraging all who are able to do so to take 7 January off from work & school, so as to be able to celebrate the feast in its fullness and as a community. 

Feast Potluck

Please consider bringing something to share for the agape meal after the Feast of the Nativity Liturgy.  Please contact Tasoni Maryann for details.

Park & Potluck

On Sunday 10 January we will go to Nobel Park after the Catechism course to celebrate the Joy of the Incarnation of our Savior together. Please consider bringing food and drink to share. Contact Jessica Gharbawy to coordinate.

Catechism Course

On Sunday 10 January we will begin a catechism course which will meet after the Divine Liturgy every Sunday for sixteen weeks. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Hymns

We encourage all congregants to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

For Nativity Hymns please click here.

Food & Clean-up

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - December 28

Quote of the Week

"Strive to enter by the narrow gate [Lk. 13:24; Mt. 7:13]. As trees cannot bear fruit if they do not undergo winter storms and rains, so for us this age is winter. We will not be able to inherit the kingdom of Heaven other than through many afflictions and temptations."

— Amma Theodora (Desert Mother)

 

For Your Edification

On the Nativity of Christ — A homily by St. John Chrysostom

 

Services & Events this Week

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Epistle to the Romans): 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Friday: St. Katherine Young Adults Fellowship (topic: Faith & Reason): 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Friday: Vespers, KIahk Vigil, & Liturgy: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Divine Liturgy: 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday: Vespers & Kiahk Vigil: 6:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Kiahk Vigil

During the blessed Coptic month of Kiahk we will be praying the Kiahk vigil every Saturday. Vespers and Kiahk Vigil will be from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Feast of the Nativity

Fr. Pimen is encouraging all who are able to do so to take 7 January (The Feast of the Nativity of our Savior) off from work, so as to be able to celebrate the feast in its fullness and as a community. 

 

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 30 December, we will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

 

Catechism Course

On Sunday 10 January we will begin a catechism course which will meet during Sunday School. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Hymns

We encourage all congregants to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

Food & Clean-up

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - December 21

St. Antony of Optina

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“No matter what bitterness has befallen you, no matter what unpleasantness has happened to you, say, 'I shall endure this for Jesus Christ!' and it will be easier for you. For the name of Jesus Christ is powerful. Through it all unpleasantness is calmed, and demons disappear. Your disappointments will also be calmed and your fears will be quieted.”

— St. Antony of Optina

 

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

What is the Orthodox Church? by Fr. Irineous (video)

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Epistle to the Romans): 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Friday: Vespers, KIahk Vigil, & Liturgy: 9:00 p.m. - 4:00 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday:  Vespers & Kiahk Vigil: 6:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Parish Name Change

As many of you already know, His Grace Bishop Serapion has asked us to choose a new name for Holy Cross (Sorrento Valley), since the parish in Oceanside will keep the Holy Cross name. Below you will find a link where you can vote for one of three names that His Grace has given us to choose from. Voting will close on Sunday 27 December.

To vote for one of these beautiful saints, please click here: new name for Holy Cross (sorrento)

KIAHK VIGIL

During the blessed Coptic month of Kiahk we will be praying the Kiahk vigil every Saturday. Vespers and Kiahk Vigil will be from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 23 December, we will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

 

Chatechism Course

On Sunday 10 January we will begin a catechism course which will meet during Sunday School. ALL parishioners are encouraged to attend.

FOCUS ANNUAL WARM CLOTHING, BLANKET, & PLASTIC TARP DRIVE

We are collecting the following items to help our homeless and needy brothers and sisters, who come to us for help at God's Extended Hand Rescue Mission, to stay warm and dry in the upcoming chilly months:

Jackets, Coats and Sweaters

Socks

Blankets

Plastic Tarps

Personal care/ Hygiene items.

Need sizes for men,  women & children, gently used or new. Monetary donations for purchasing these items are welcome, too.

Place your donated items in the FOCUS collection container at Holy Cross. 

For questions, or to make a financial contribution, please contact: the FOCUS Ministry Coordinator Patty Diaz (pdiaz@focusna.org, 858-679-9283) or Spiritual Advisor Rev. Fr. Simeon Corona (frsimeonb.corona@yahoo.com, 619-760-6373).

At Holy Cross please contact Myrian Awadalla

Toy Drive

We will be collecting NEW toys for children in need for Christmas. You will find a drop-off box at church.

HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - December 14

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"Prayer is the destruction of fear."

— St. John of Kronstadt

 

FOR YOUR EDIFICATION

You Barely Make a Difference and It's a Good Thing by Fr. Stephen Freeman

 

SERVICES & EVENTS THIS WEEK

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Epistle to the Romans): 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. Basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: St. Katherine of Alexandria Young Adult Fellowship (Topic: Atheism): 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Friday: Vespers & KIahk Vigil: 7:00 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday:  Divine Liturgy 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday:  Vespers and Kiahk Vigil: 6:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Parish Name Change

As many of you already know, His Grace Bishop Serapion has asked us to choose a new name for Holy Cross (Sorrento Valley), since the parish in Oceanside will keep the Holy Cross name. Below you will find a link where you can vote for one of three names that His Grace has given us to choose from.

To vote for one of these beautiful saints, please click here: new name for Holy Cross (sorrento)

KIAHK VIGIL

The blessed Coptic month Kiahk is upon us, which means we will be praying the Kiahk vigil every Saturday of Kiahk. Vespers and Kiahk Vigil will be from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

FOCUS

This Wednesday, 16 December, we will be serving meals to the hungry at God's Extended Hand. Click here for more information.

FOCUS ANNUAL WARM CLOTHING, BLANKET, & PLASTIC TARP DRIVE

We are collecting the following items to help our homeless and needy brothers and sisters, who come to us for help at God's Extended Hand Rescue Mission, to stay warm and dry in the upcoming chilly months:

Jackets, Coats and Sweaters

Socks

Blankets

Plastic Tarps

Personal care/ Hygiene items.

Need sizes for men,  women & children, gently used or new. Monetary donations for purchasing these items are welcome, too.

Place your donated items in the FOCUS collection container at Holy Cross. 

For questions, or to make a financial contribution, please contact: the FOCUS Ministry Coordinator Patty Diaz (pdiaz@focusna.org, 858-679-9283) or Spiritual Advisor Rev. Fr. Simeon Corona (frsimeonb.corona@yahoo.com, 619-760-6373).

At Holy Cross please contact Myrian Awadalla

Toy Drive

We will be collecting NEW toys for children in need for Christmas. You will find a drop-off box at church.

HYMNS

We encourage all congregants to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

FOOD & CLEAN-UP

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.

Weekly Update - December 7

Quote of the Week

"Let us weep, brethren: let our eyes pour out tears before we depart for a place where our tears will burn our bodies."

— St. Makarios the Great

 

For Your Edification

No terror on earth can be compared with that horror that I experienced in the life after death by Nun Tatiana

 

Services & Events This Week

(in Sorrento Valley unless otherwise noted)

Tuesday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. basil Fellowship): 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday: St. Athanasius Catechetical School (Topic: Epistle to the Romans): 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday: Divine Liturgy (followed by St. basil Fellowship): 6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

Friday: Ornament Making: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Friday: Bible Study, Vespers, and Midnight Praise: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday:  Divine Liturgy 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. (Oceanside)

Saturday:  Vespers and Kiahk Vigil 6:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Sunday: Divine Liturgy 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Kiahk Vigil

The blessed Coptic month Kiahk is upon us, which means we will be praying the Kiahk vigil every Saturday of Kiahk. Beginning this Saturday (8 Dec) Vespers and Kiahk Vigil will be from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Ornament Making

This Friday 11 December at 7:00 p.m. all are invited to help make ornaments to decorate the social hall at church for the advent season. Please join us for a joyful evening of fellowship.

In order to make sure we have enough materials for all who will participate, please let Monica Iskander (954-439-5969) know if you will be coming. 

FOCUS Annual Warm Clothing, Blanket, & Plastic Tarp Drive

We are collecting the following items to help our homeless and needy brothers and sisters, who come to us for help at God's Extended Hand Rescue Mission, to stay warm and dry in the upcoming chilly months:

Jackets, Coats and Sweaters

Socks

Blankets

Plastic Tarps

Personal care/ Hygiene items.

Need sizes for men,  women & children, gently used or new. Monetary donations for purchasing these items are welcome, too.

Place your donated items in the FOCUS collection container at Holy Cross. 

For questions, or to make a financial contribution, please contact: the FOCUS Ministry Coordinator Patty Diaz (pdiaz@focusna.org, 858-679-9283) or Spiritual Advisor Rev. Fr. Simeon Corona (frsimeonb.corona@yahoo.com, 619-760-6373).

At Holy Cross please contact Myrian Awadalla

Hymns

We encourage all congregants to listen to the liturgical hymns as they are chanted at Holy Cross please click here.

Food & Clean-up

To sign up to bring food for the agape meal on Sundays please see the bulletin board at church or contact Tasoni Maryann. We need as many volunteers as possible to keep the church clean on Sundays after the Divine Liturgy. Please consider this important expression of stewardship.