St. Barbara’s To Host Pan-Orthodox Vespers

Each year during the Great Fast, Orthodox Christians in North Texas meet on Sunday nights at local Churches for Lenten Vespers, a sermon, fellowship and Lenten meal.

This year the community of St. Barbara’s has been asked to serve as host for a Pan-Orthodox Service on Sunday, March 31 at 6:00 pm. That date happens to be Western Easter, but it is our Second Sunday of Lent (St. Gregory Palamas).

More information will be forthcoming. Main entrees have already been chosen for the reception.  A sign-up sheet, however, is in the parish hall for members and friends of the parish to indicate Lenten side dishes, salads and desserts they can offer for the event. 

St. Barbara’s has hosted Pan-Orthodox Vespers and events in the past. Each time proved to be an enjoyable experience.  Based on prior attendance figures we will be planning for 100 to 120 people. Should you have any questions please contact Matushka Christine or Fr. Basil.  Thank you in advance for your kind efforts.   

Pan-Orthodox Lenten Vespers

• March 24 – Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 13555 Hillcrest Rd. Dallas, TX (6:00 pm)

• March 31 – St. Barbara Orthodox Church, 5201 Altamesa, Ft. Worth, TX (6:00 pm)

• April      7 – St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, 303 Cullum Dr., Euless, TX (6:00 pm) 

•  April    14 – Sts. Constantine & Helen Antiochian Orthodox Church, 1225 East Rosemeade Parkway, Carrollton, TX (6:00 pm)

•  April    21 – St. Seraphim OCA Cathedral, 4208 Wycliff Ave. Dallas, TX (6:00 pm)

Many Blessed Years!

To the infant Miles Constantine Upshaw and to his family: John, Photini, Luke and Anna.  Constantine will be baptized on Saturday, March 9 at 4:00 pm.  “May the Lord grant them all many blessed years of health, prosperity and furtherance in all good things!”

Cheesefare (Cheesecake) Sunday

Please note that March 17 is Forgiveness and also Cheesefare Sunday.  You are invited to bring your favorite Cheesecake or Dairy based dessert for Coffee Hour.

Looking Ahead to Holy Week and Pascha

Please note that Holy Week begins on Monday, April 29.  Holy Friday is May 3, Holy Saturday, May 4, and Pascha, May 5.  The Midnight Paschal Service will start at 11:30 pm on Saturday, May 5.  We mention these dates so that all may look at personal calendars and plan ahead for this holiest time of year for Orthodox Christians.  

Sunday Music Instruction

Classes in singing and basic music theory are being offered for parishioners, catechumens and inquirers.  Sessions are about 45 minutes, taking place most Sundays toward the middle of Coffee Hour (about 12:15 to 1:00 pm).  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.