Message to the Faithful from His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas on the Feast Day of the Virgin Mary

Metropolitan Nicholas

Assumption Feast Day to the Virgin Mary
Contributing Writer Elena Kerasiotis

The Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in St. Clair Shores, MI welcomed visiting worshipers from throughout the Diocese of Detroit. His Eminence Metropolitan Nicholas led services and offered the sermon. His message was delivered in Greek and English, with his words first spoken to the congregation in English and then repeated sentence by sentence in translated Greek. The effect was as dramatic and as effective as his message.

As he spoke, His Eminence slowly wove through the congregation. The message was one of love, and he ably offered the definition of a Greek Orthodox Christian, announcing that, "We must be, who we are." Different requirements such as fasting, or speaking Greek, "are not the essence of Orthodoxy." Instead he focused on "making the word of God a part of our daily life!" He continued, "We must act as God would want us, to help others and to love others." Finally, "Hear the Word, and then Do it! We must put our faith into action."

Similar to that of the Virgin Mary, the Mother of Christ, who was the instrumental in requesting His first miracle, which began His ministry to the world. His Eminence goes on to say, that once these historic Christian events began to unfold, the Bible does not really discuss the role of the Virgin, except to reinforce her unconditional love and her support as the Mother of God. "She quietly watched, and reflected perseverance and fortitude."

At the close of services, he assured everyone that Father Dimitrios Kavadas was in Beaumont Hospital being tested for an aneurism, and that he had spoken with him and that he was resting awaiting further medical treatment. He encouraged the congregation to send notes of support and prayer. He commended the Iconography committee on its selection of an Iconographer and looked forward to watching the transformation of the church. He closed wishing all of the Marias, Panayiotas, Peters, and Panayiotides, a happy and healthy name day. On a humorous note, he advised that despite his attendance, that the liturgy had been completed early due to the efficiency of the choir, the chanters and the clergy. He asked if any one had any questions as there was time available to allow the caterer adequate time to complete his preparations. Upon completion of services, he personally presented the faithful with an icon, H DEHSIS, as a gift to commemorate the day.

Following the services, many remained to share in the traditional holiday luncheon hosted by the Ladies Philoptochos Society. The spirit of the Virgin Mother was evident as guests moved from table to table sharing and renewing friendship and fellowship. Clearly the message had been received and the love she so emulated was with among the faithful. Photos will be available on http://www.goassumption.org/Koimisis/Photos.html Also ask about the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Detroit Ladies Philoptochos Society Cookbook: Sharing Favorites of our Greek American Cuisine now available in most church offices for just $22.00. Don't forget to support this worthy cause.

Malista!