Bishop Gerasim Visit: December 3

We are excited to announce that Bishop Gerasim (Eliel), will visit St. Barbara’s on December 3, celebrating with us, our Patronal Feast.  The faithful will formally greet His Grace on that day at 9:30 am.  The hierarchical reception will be in compliance with the Nativity Fast, although fish and wine are allowed. The main dish has been planned taking the Fast into consideration, as well as His Grace’s dietary requirements. Additional Lenten dishes and desserts will be needed.  A sign-up sheet is now posted in the Church Hall. Please see Matushka Christine for more information.

In addition, we have planned a cleaning party on Friday, December 1.  Special choir and altar-server rehearsals will also be conducted. His Grace will be accompanied by at least one deacon, as well as a subdeacon from the Cathedral.  We will see everyone on December 3. Please arrive prior to 9:30 am. Those with food, 9:00 am or 9:15 is advisable. Thank you.    

Special Activities November and early December:

November 7 and 8: Vespers and Liturgy for the Feast of Archangel Michael.

November 15:  Start of the 40 Day Nativity Fast.

November 18:  General Confession at 5:00 pm.

November 19:  Altar Server Rehearsal following Liturgy.

November 20 and 21: Vespers and Liturgy for the Entrance of Theotokos into the Temple.

November 23:  Thanksgiving Day Liturgy.

December 1:  Cleaning Day in preparation for Bishop Gerasim.

December 3:  Bishop Gerasim to visit St. Barbara’s. Formal greeting of His Grace at 9:30 am.

Fall Clothing Drive:

Last year’s Fall Clothing Drive for the Ft. Worth Men’s Shelter was a tremendous success.  This year we will conduct a similar effort through December.  Cold weather will be with us at some point, and there will be a great need for larger size NEW men’s T-Shirts, underwear and socks.  Gently used sweaters and coats can also be received by the Shelter.  Cash donations may be given through the Church, to be used to purchase – by parishioners – necessary items at nearby stores.  Over $100.00 in cash has been collected thus far in a few short weeks, along with a number of articles of clothing. The clothing has already been delivered to the shelter, enthusiastically received. Please see Carol Guarnieri for more information and look for the collection box in the parish hall.  We thank Carol, Bob and everyone in advance for your generosity.

Sunday Music Instruction:

On Sunday, June 11, we began offering classes in singing and basic music theory for parishioners.  Sessions are about 45 minutes, taking place on Sundays toward the middle of Coffee Hour (about 12:30 to 1:15 pm).  Currently these are being led for adults and teens by Ms. Jamie Lynn Gonzalez.  Jamie is a music education/performing arts majors with approximately a decade of choral, solo performance and directing experience.  One does not have to be a member of the choir, nor read music to take part in these sessions. Please contact Jamie or Fr. Basil with further questions and/or to express your interest.

Financial Pledge Reminder:

During their Fall travels we encourage members of St. Barbara’s to visit Orthodox Churches for Sundays and feasts in whatever city(ies) they may find themselves.  In addition, we ask that members make a special effort to remember Church pledges and offerings.  Such efforts are greatly needed and much appreciated.  Thank you.