Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church Congregation Welcome New Members


Holy Cross Parishioners Participate in the sacrament of Chrismation
by Contributing Writer Elena Kerasiotis

On Sunday, June 24, 2007, parishioners of the Holy Cross Church in Farmington Hills, were fortunate to participate in the sacrament of Chrismation for two newly welcomed members, Tracy Vlahos, sponsors: Angel Brock and Presvytera Olga Hountalas and Melissa Lucas, sponsor: Evans Lucas. Father Dean C. Hountalas, Protopresbyter, joyfully celebrated the sacrament as part of the Sunday liturgy.

The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, www.goarch.org provides the following information:

The term Chrismation is derived from the use of Holy Chrism, which was introduced to the Christian Church from the existing Old Testament practice. It is stated that, "The Lord said to Moses, 'Take the finest spices 12 pounds of liquid myrrh, 6 pounds of sweet smelling cinnamon, 6 pounds of sweet cane, and 12 pounds of cassia (all weighted according to official standard). Add one gallon of olive oil, and make a sacred anointing oil, mixed like perfume.''' (Exodus 30:22-25) The Chrism is prepared by the Patriarch during Holy week and distributed to Orthodox congregations around the world yearly.

Holy Chrism is used mainly in the celebration of the sacrament of Chrismation, which takes place immediately following the sacrament of Baptism. It is, however, a separate, distinct sacrament from Baptism. According to Orthodox Church readings, through the administration of the sacrament of Chrismation, the baptized receive gifts (charismata) that are transmitted to them by the Holy Spirit.† Such gifts also help the baptized live a life in Christ, which they enter through baptism, and equip them in their struggle against sin and the attacks of evil.† Through the seal of Chrismation, the baptized attain "mature manhood, to the measure of the fullness of Christ." (Ephesians 4:13 R.S.V.) The Holy Chrism is also used to chrismate the heterodox (non-Orthodox) joining the Church.

Father Dean opened his sermon to the congregation by acknowledging the John's in attendance. He explained that his performing the Sacrament of Chrismation was particularly fitting on this, the feast Day of St. John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ the Messiah. He was pleased to welcome these two newly Chrismated members into the congregation and encouraged them to accept the "charismata" the gift of the Holy Spirit which would help them in their new lives as Greek Orthodox Christians. May they always be worthy, and may the congregation be blessed for having been a part of this most Holy Sacrament.

Following the service, guests and friends entered the fellowship hall to welcome these new converts to Orthodoxy. The obvious enthusiasm was infectious. It appeared as if all had been instilled the Holy Spirit and that each member that had attended the Sacrament had a truly witnessed a wondrous event.

The Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church is located at 25225 Middlebelt Rd., Farmington Hills, MI 48336. Sunday Worship Hours 10:00am. The parish is hosting a fundraising campaign, "Summer Survival." It is challenging parishioners to: 1. Become Stewards, 2. If already a Steward, to encourage early payment of monthly commitment to assist with summer expenses, and 3. to continue to support supplemental fund raising efforts. The congregation is creating an "Endearment Walk," in recognition of the past, present and future. Bricks with inscriptions are available for purchase by contacting the Long Range Planning Committee at 248-477-1677, holycross0914@sbcglobal.net.

Malista!