ST. PAUL’S BLOGS IT FURTHER


If Paul the Apostle had a blog…
Easter Cross jpg

Easter Services at St Paul’s

St PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, FILELLINON 27 & AMALIAS

(SYNTAGMA METRO)

 

Programme of Liturgy for Holy Week and Easter 2024

 

 

Wednesday 27th March

 

Holy Wednesday Liturgy 10.00 hrs
Thursday 28th March

 

Maundy Thursday Liturgy 19.30 hrs
Friday 29th March

 

Good Friday Liturgy 14.00 hrs
Saturday 30th March (remember to turn your clocks 1 hour forward before going to bed)

 

Easter Vigil Liturgy 20.00 hrs
Sunday 31st March (everyone welcome to Easter Breakfast after the service) Easter Sunday Liturgy 10.00 hrs
March. CC.png Blog

Community Connect Coffee Morning – 14th March 2024

Community Connect coffee morning this month on the14th, we will be holding it in the church gardens of St.Paul`s church, Filellion 27 and Amalias, at 10:30 am until 12 :30pm.If raining we will be inside the church.
This month we are celebrating the English Easter, on sale there will be handmade Easter cards, Easter knits, greeting cards for all occasions, good quality secondhand clothing, books and preserves.
From now until the weather changes (Autumn or winter) we will be holding the coffee mornings in the church garden.
Please note from Autumn the coffee mornings will be held in the new premises of the Swedish centre at Apollonos 6, 105 57, just off Nikis street
From the post office walk down Mitropoleos street, take your first left, then first right this is Apollonos street. It is number 6, it is on the third floor but don`t worry there is a lift.
Looking forward in seeing you all on Thursday.
Heading Blog

Report on 388th meeting of Chaplaincy Council held on Sunday 19th November in church at 12 noon

Visiting priest Father Terry Hemming had been invited to attend the meeting, which proceeded as follows:

Matters arising from the previous minutes

Following a presentation by Cosmo Murray, organiser of the Mazi hostel for homeless immigrants, Council agreed to donate the remaining 2,000 Euros of the 2023 refugee fund to pay for 3 months rent and prevent closure (the Refugee Fund is financed only by donations towards specific causes). Representatives of the organisations “Melissa” and “Creative Hands” would be invited to give a presentation in 2024. Any member of the congregation can put forward the name of an organisation that needs support and it will be considered by Council.  

Standing Committee Report on 8th October meeting

As part of our Safeguarding duty of care, members of this Committee (Assistant Chaplain, Wardens, Hon. Treasurer, Hon. Secretary) had met with the organiser of a small group currently caring for a member of the congregation. The care programme, assistance from Council members and other issues were discussed and lines of communication would be kept open, with further meetings arranged if necessary.

Financial Report

Members had received copies of the accounts and Nelly distributed “Funding our Future”, a Diocesan leaflet. St. Paul’s current income of 1,345 Euros per week did not cover costs and a further 233 per week were needed. There were 50 regular contributors and an increase to 70 would be extremely useful. Council agreed that a “Giving Day” should take place once a year, with a presentation and a sermon on “the grace of giving” (St. Paul, Corinthians 2).

READ MORE

Community Connect meets every month in Athens and Kifissia

Community Connect Athens, Valentine’s Coffee Morning

Valentines Day

Community Connect Athens

Valentine

Coffee & Cake Morning

February 8th 10:30 until 12:30

Come along one & all

At the Swedish Center,

Sortiros 7, Plaka

Hearts

On sale will be Books,Preserves

Good quality second-hand clothing,

Handmade Greeting cards for all occasions.

Mini Bingo & Lucky chair.

Community Connect Athens

Is the second Thursday of every month.

See you there!

Coffee Valentine

DOE Blog 1100 x 600

Bishop’s Lent Appeal – Anglican Centre in Rome

February 2024

 

It is the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity as I write, and it seems an appropriate time to be

asking for your support in the Annual Lent Appeal, because the focus of our efforts this Lent

will be the Anglican Centre in Rome.

In a world that seems ever more divided and fragmented, all work for unity is precious and

valued. The unity in truth of Christ’s church is his gift, but it is a gift to be treasured and

nurtured – during the recent “Synod on Synodality” of the Roman Catholic church, the

Centre was buzzing with visitors and hosted structured conversations that could have taken

place nowhere else.

Founded in 1966, just after the second Vatican Council, it remains as a bastion of hope for

full visible unity. We now recognise each other’s baptism, our priests can preside together

when Anglicans and Roman Catholics are married, we have travelled far towards agreement

in the matters of the Eucharist and Justification by faith in Christ; and the Centre smooths

the path for discussions on the important issues ahead.

Crucially, and recently, the Centre has been a hub of activity as the Roman church has held

its recent Synod. The Roman Catholic church is looking to increase its own sense of

inclusion of all Christians in the mission of the church, and it recognises the learning that is

available from the Anglican Communion in this.

READ MORE

Bible Study Blog

Minutes of September Council Meeting

387th meeting of St. Paul’s Chaplaincy Council – 10th September 2023 at 12 noon

Introduction: The Minutes of two previous meetings were approved, actions taken noted and the following were pending: rota for supervision of St. Paul’s Sunday merchandising table /a TRIO (The Responsibility is Our) financial presentation / official advice on church evacuation procedure in case of a major event.

The vacancy: Paperwork had been submitted and, following advice from our Bishop, amendments were made due to the importance of St. Paul’s within the Diocese and our fruitful relationships with the Orthodox Church and other faith groups. The post would now be advertised not only on the Diocesan website but also in the Church Times.

Finances: These were slowly recovering following losses due to Covid and helped by the much-appreciated legacy of the late Sylvia Hill. Looking forward, fundraising events needed to be expanded in order to avoid the use of UK funds.

Safeguarding: Certificate-holders were reminded to note the date of expiry and apply for new ones if necessary. Any congregation member could obtain Level 1 certification, free and with an online course.

Environment: Local Environment Officer (LEO), James Papageorgiou, presented his report and it was agreed that St. Paul’s should aim to become an Eco-Church as part of the Diocesan project to become a Green Diocese.

Chaplaincy Apartment: A new washing machine and some furniture needed replacing and the floor repairing due to flood damage earlier in the year caused by a blockage within the building.

Ministry Team and Locum (visiting priest): Assistant Chaplain Deacon Chris reported that the team was working successfully to ensure continuity of services and Diocesan Office would notify us of the availability of locums. Other Chaplaincies and individuals would also be approached for support.

Pastoral Care: Father Ted Wetherall, now elderly, had been hospitalised and official services were no longer held in Tolos. Phone calls and home visits to the sick and housebound continued and any cause for concern could be referred to our Ministry team or a council member for action.

Refugee Giving: The final date for distribution of these funds was approaching and Cosmo Murray of the ‘Mazi’ Housing Agency for homeless immigrants would give a Sunday presentation on their work.

Fundraising: Community Connect Coffee mornings, quiz evenings and book sales continued, the Harvest Festival would take place on 22nd October and the upper floor of the War Museum was booked for 3rd December.

The meeting closed with prayer at 2 p.m. – next meeting Sunday, 19th November.

Jean Mertzanakis (Hon. Secretary)

Bazaar Blog

St Paul’s Annual Christmas Bazaar

St. Paul’s Anglican Church invites you to its 2023 Christmas Bazaar at the War Museum, Rizari 4 (Vasillis Sofias Avenue) Athens.

Saturday 3rd December 2023 11.00 am – 4.30pm

Come along for a fun day out and browse our lovely stalls.  Stock up on Home-made preserves, and delicious cakes.  Find a Toy or a piece of jewellery for Christmas presents and don’t forget the Crackers for the Christmas Table.  Also on sale will be nearly-new clothing, beautiful gifts and much more.  Win a prize in our exciting Christmas Raffle, then take the weight off your feet and relax in our cafeteria with a glass of wine or an Irish Coffee.

All proceeds support our church and the charitable organisations we work with here in Athens.

 

Please note the Church will be open between 10.00 hrs and 12.00 hrs during the week prior to the bazaar, 27th November – 2nd December,  for the collection of goods; We will not be able to accept donation on the day.

 

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU

fundraising-far-left

Save the Date

We have several exciting new concerts coming up at St Paul’s.  Check out our website Calendar for more details.

 

Friday 20th October – the Athens Singers

athens-singers1-thumb-large

Saturday 21st October – KATERINA PAPADOPOULOU AND NOTIO TOXO

PAPDOPOULOU NOTIO TOXO

 

CHILDREN’S ENSEMBLE “VARAVĪKSNE” FROM LATVIA

Friday October 27 @ 18:00 – 19:00

 

Monday 30th October – Church Sessions 7 by Radio Pepper 96.6FM – “Alkyone”

 

Harvest Blog

St Paul’s Harvest Festival – Kokotos Winery Sunday 22nd October 2023

Join us on Sunday 22nd October to celebrate the Harvest in the beautiful surroundings of the Kokotos Estate, 1 Ktima G. Kokotou, Stamata, 145 75.

Starting at 11.00 hrs with the Harvest Service, followed by Wine Tasting and a Harvest Lunch.

To book seats on the St. Paul’s coach contact Lynn Stavrou on 211 183 8414 / 6938 325 088 / lynnstav@gmail.com   Depart St. Paul’s 10 a.m. prompt. Depart from vineyard 4.30 p.m. Please note that numbers are limited.

 

For event tickets and further information contact :

Lynn Stavrou (see above) OR Shirley Poulakis – 210 934 2830 /

Europe Blog (1)

Bishop of Europe’s Advent Appeal 2023

Picture 1

Diocese in Europe Logo (2)

As the Diocese in and for Europe, we are deeply aware of our international context; perhaps we’re also well-placed, then, to think internationally outside Europe itself. I’m delighted to say that we will be supporting this Advent the Anglican Communion Fund of the Archbishop of Canterbury. It exists to make small investments across the church; in the right hands, these can have great impact.

The focus of this year’s work is South Asia, with which I now myself feel a special link, after my sabbatical in that part of the world in early 2023.

Pakistan

Women in Pakistan regularly experience domestic violence, sexual abuse, forced marriages, kidnappings, acid attacks and more. Christian women and girls in Muslim Punjab face discrimination due to their gender, faith, and low position. They are the poorest of the poor, and often illiterate. At risk of forced conversions and false charges under blasphemy laws, they are often unable to stand up against these offences; they often don’t know their constitutional rights.

The Diocese of Sialkot, in Punjab Province, is supporting women and girls. The Bishop’s wife there is leading in teaching women about their rights and protection, for them to pass on to younger women: it is all born of the insight that God has made them wonderfully and fearfully, and it hopes to erase what is often the experienced shame of being female. Sessions on the law of Pakistan educate women about domestic violence and harassment; girls are given strength and confidence to recognise the protections they need.

Pakistan

Young Women in South India

The Covid pandemic took its toll on the economy and the health care industry in South India. The economy is still struggling to recover from the severe lockdown measures. The costs of essential goods has increased, and unemployment is high, with young women particularly vulnerable. At the same time, the need for nursing-at-home and health care support increased further, while the pandemic meant that skilled and educated young people migrated for work opportunities elsewhere.

The Church of South India is responding to these issues by starting a programme for young women aged 18 to 28, particularly from rural areas, to study home care nursing and health care. After completing a basic training course, some will go on to higher level training, and others will work in some of the CSI Mission hospitals. Not only will these  young women gain skills and employment, bringing benefit to themselves and their families, but the pool of nursing and health care staff will also increase.

Hpa-An Diocese, Myanmar

A rat plague hit two parishes in the Diocese of Hpa-An, Myanmar in 2022, destroying seed sown and causing a loss of the following year’s harvest. A religious minority, Christians in Myanmar are more vulnerable to poverty, and government structures cannot be relied upon to offer a safety net to struggling families. A grant from the Fund helped the Church to purchase and distribute rice – both to Christian families and to the very poor of other faiths, feeding the hungry and serving as a witness to God’s love in this area touched by conflict, natural disaster and other maladies.

Myanmar

 

To donate to the ACF Appeal please see the notes below.

Yours sincerely in Christ,

 

+Robert Gibraltar in Europe

 

How you can donate to the Bishop in Europe’s Advent Appeal 2023:
By cheque to:  Diocese in Europe (Advent Appeal 2023).

Diocese in Europe Board of Finance

14, Tufton St

London SW1P 3QZ

 

By bank transfer:

Account number: 40317039

Sort code: 20-06-13

IBAN: GB16 BUKB 2006 1340 3170 39

Swiftbic: BUKBGB22

On the Diocese in Europe Just Giving page:

https://www.justgiving.com/diocese-ineurope Or: via your Chaplaincy Treasurer to Nick Wraight in the Diocesan Office – Please add a reference to “Advent appeal 2023” to bank transfers and Justgiving.

 

Bible Study Blog

Michaelmas Edition of St Paul’s Magazine

The Michaelmas Edition of the Parish Magazine is now availabe to view and download  here

Please note that due to difficulty in obtaining contributions for this edition the magazine will only be published quarterly in future in the hope that more people will feel inspired v to send in an article, comment or even a recipe.  Any comments should be sent to Oliver Knight or to the website.

October

Community Connect Coffee Morning

COMMUNITY CONNECT ATHENS

Time with friends Blog

 

St.Paul`s Anglican Church

Invites you to our Coffee morning
On Thursday October 12th
From 10:30 until 12:30pm
In St.Paul’s Church Gardens
Fillinon 27 & Amalias Ave.
On sale will be Books, Jigsaws,
Good quality second-hand clothing,
Handmade Greeting cards for all occasions,

Preserves & Mini Bingo.

Come along to meet or make new friends.

 

Walking Together in Faith

Diocese in Europe Logo (2)                                                                       Walking together in Faith Logo Web
1 September 2023

 

To chaplains, clergy, churchwardens, Readers and Readers in training

Dear colleagues in the Diocese in Europe

The Diocese in Europe’s lay learning course ‘Walking Together in Faith’ is back for a second year, starting in mid-September.

Initially launched in September 2022, the course was offered last year in an online version on Zoom. In addition, a small number of groups met in person locally and drew on the course material that has been made available. It was clear from the response during this first year that the course has both met a need in the diocese and has been well received. We will be building on our experience of last year to make it even better for this coming one!

I, myself led most of the ‘Zoom’ sessions (drawing in other colleagues and friends as appropriate). It was a stimulating experience. The group of about 25 people who joined us regularly came from different parts of our diverse and fascinating diocese. Part of the enjoyment and learning was the way that participants were able to share their different geographical and cultural insights.

There are four ‘Modules’ for the course, and each Module has five Units.

Module One: Knowing God looks at prayer, and focuses on the Lord’s Prayer, and the context in which Jesus taught it to his disciples

Module Two: Growing in Christ explores what Christians over the centuries have wanted to say about Jesus Christ and what he did.

Module Three: Building Community looks at our common life as part of the People of God, and how it is expressed, for example in our worship.

Module Four: Living beyond Ourselves asks about how our Christian faith should affect our responses to key issues of our time such as the care for creation and migration.

This year’s online version of the course will start on Tuesday 26 September, and will then happen more-or-less fortnightly over the coming year. Module One will run before

1 September 2023

Christmas, and Module Two will start as soon as possible in the New Year. The online sessions will last for 90 minutes, and they will begin at 18.30 (UK time).

 

READ MORE

E-Mag Cover

St. Paul’s Church Council Meeting – 29th April, 2023

The meeting was the first following the March Annual meeting and opened with a prayer at 10 a.m. Archdeaconry representatives James Papageorgiou and Vassilis Kotsikogiannis were welcomed at the beginning of their three year appointment, along with Dr. Judy Triandafillou, co-opted for one year.

Appointments: Lynn Stavrou (Vice-chair and Safeguarding Officer); Jean Mertzanakis (Hon. Secretary); Nelly Paraskevopoulou (Hon. Treasurer); James Papageorgiou (Local Environmental Officer/LEO).

Secretarial Report: Annual Statistics for Mission re: attendance numbers, type and regularity of services etc. had been completed by Father Leonard and sent to the Diocesan office; Jean had updated the St. Paul’s information published on the “A Church near You” website.

Chairman’s Report: The Bishop of Truro’s visit had included many official meetings re: his report on Freedom of Religion and Belief for the British government and it was hoped that a committee consisting of ourselves and other churches in Athens could be formed to promote this work. Bishop Philip had conducted a baptism, a confirmation and two receptions into the Anglican Church and said that his visit had reminded him of the diversity he so much appreciated when he was posted in Europe.  Treasurer Nelly reported that insurance claim paperwork had been submitted re: the flooding of the Vicarage that had occurred whilst Father Leonard and Lynne were in Scotland. The Ministerial Team (Father Leonard, Father Bjorn, Deacon Chris, Nelly and Angelos) would take place before Father Leonard’s end of tenure on July 23rd in order to arrange services during the interregnum period that would follow his retirement.

Financial Report:  A legacy of €28,000 had been received from the estate of the late Sylvia Hill, last member of the Hill family, who had served the church as Council members and Officers for many years. €8,000 would be donated to Greek charities and the remainder would support St. Paul’s. Sylvia’s legacy had been gratefully acknowledged.

Re: online fundraisers, it was decided that there would be one  per year during the Christmas season.

Safeguarding Report: New council members must complete Level 1 online Safeguarding training – any member of the congregation could do this if they wished – no cost was involved and a certificate would be issued.

Fundraising/Social Events: The 2023 date would shortly be booked and relations with the War Museum were good. The renting of two tables to “Paidiki Trauma” had been successful and the possibility of renting to other charitable organizations (including our partners) would be considered. Preparations for the Summer Coronation Bazaar were in hand. €2,818 had been raised from book sales between April 2022-2023 and Father Leonard was thanked for his donation of theological works. Books were also sold at Newcomers meetings, attended by Assistant Chaplain Deacon Chris. Sales of the church guide “Opening the Doors” were going well.  Coffee mornings and quiz evenings had restarted and were popular fundraising events.

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter: In accordance with Diocesan best practice, more than one person should be involved in the running of our online communications and teams were currently being formed, involving Caroline Daniels, Churchwarden Trevor, Treasurer Nelly and Chloe Smith.

Council meeting dates: 8th July / 10th September / 12th November.

The meeting closed at 11.30.

Jean Mertzanakis (Hon. Secretary)

Leonard  Blog

Farewell and thank you!

This Sunday Fr Leonard will celebrate his final service at St Paul’s prior to his retirement

During his term of office we have been privileged to receive, at his invitation visits from many eminent religious leaders – former Archbishop Rowan Williams, Bishops Robert and David from the Diocese in Europe, ex Archdeacon the Ven. Colin Williams and our current Archdeacon the Revd. Canon Dr Leslie Nathaniel.  He has forged a close relationship with the Greek Orthodox Church and several eminent Orthodox priests have been invited to preach at St Paul’s since he took over.  He has also maintained and developed a close relationship with the British Embassy and the British Ambassadors here in Athens, in particular the former Ambassador John Kittmer with whom he has cooperated on the book “Opening The Doors”, an exciting new church history and guide book which is now available at the cost of €10,00. It is a lasting legacy to the presence of the Anglican Church here in Athens.

The Swedish Church has become a close friend to St Paul’s and it’s pastor Fr Bjorn is now licensed to take services for the Anglican Congregation at the Church.

Fr Leonard has a great sense of humour and fun.  Who could forget Pontius Parrot or the enthusiastic way in which he conducted “The Twelve Days of Christmas” at our Christmas Singalong?! He and his wife, Lynne, thoroughly enjoyed our Harvest Festival trips to the Kokotos Winery and were eager participants on the dance floor.  Off duty Fr Leonard could be found sipping a pint of Stella at his local Cafe.

His wife, Lynne, has also proved invaluable to the Church Community.  She resurrected the Sunday School for the children of the Congregation providing colouring pages, word search puzzles and children’s bibles.  A talented chef she baked a cake and assisted with the Community Connect Coffee Mornings each month. . She provided home-made savoury offerings for the Food Stall and created the Tea Stall for the Christmas Bazaar which was very attractive and successful.  Her home-made fudge became legendary as did her Christmas Cakes which she baked, iced and decorated beautifully.  Orders for  these and for the boxes of home-made fudge came from far and wide!

We would like to send our heartfelt thanks to Fr Leonard and Lynne for their service to St Paul’s over the last six years and to wish them every happiness in their retirement over in Aegina and we hope you enjoy the picture gallery below which brings back some of the memories of Fr Leonard’s tenure at St Paul’s.

READ MORE

Summer

Community Connect Coffee Morning

CANCELLED DUE TO EXTREMELY HIGH TEMPERATURES

HAVE A GOOD SUMMER EVERYONE

WE’LL BE BACK IN SEPTEMBER!

Community Connect Athens

Come along one & all

And join us for coffee

In St. Pauls Church Garden

Filellinon 27, Syntagma

On Thursday 13th July

      11:00am – 1:00pm  

             Summer sun

 On sale will be Books, Preserves,

Good quality second-hand clothing,

Handmade Greeting cards for all occasions,

& Bingo

See you there!

 Ice Creams

 Please note

There will not be a August coffee morning.

Sun-Glasses

 

Whitsun Dove
©Alice Popkorn Flickr

Summer Newsletter – E-Mag

Our latest Newsletter has now been published so please click on the link below for access

Please click here to open the magazine

Anyone who would like to receive this bimonthly magazine  please send an email to Oliver at  <oliversamuelknight@outlook.com>
We hope you enjoy reading this interesting and informative publication.
We are always on the lookout for new articles, photographs and recipes so please send these in to Oliver Samuel at the above address.

 

Home Page.1

REPORT ON PROCEEDINGS OF ST. PAUL’S COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 21ST JANUARY, 2023

The meeting opened with prayer at 10.30 a.m. and the following matters were raised:

Finances: the deficit was 13,583 Euros, less than the 2020 amount of around 15,000  and a sign of post-Covid recovery.  Accountant Philip Poulakis and Hon. Treasurer Nelly were thanked for their work and regular reporting.

Council membership: it was agreed that the one-year gap following a member’s end of tenure before he/she could re-apply for membership should be waived, in view of the current lack of people applying for Council membership.

Safeguarding: Safeguarding Officer Lynn Stavrou noted that any member of the congregation was welcome to complete the Level 1 Safeguarding course – available online – details from her.

Fundraising: the 2022 Christmas Bazaar had been a great success and the War Museum booked for 2023. Due to the closure of the British Embassy residence for up to 3 years for renovation, there would be no donations of food for the cafeteria. Both the Carol Sing-Along and Service had been well-attended, raising just over 1,400 Euros, and there had been a get-together at the Victory Café after the Christmas morning service. Oliver Knight reported income of 2,264 Euros from book sales in the previous 10 months – as well as book sales there would be a lending library for theological books and there was a demand for books from Newcomers, whose meetings Deacon Chris attended. Oliver added that more contributions were needed for the online Newsletter, particularly connected with church life. Concert bookings were slowly increasing and quiz evenings and coffee mornings continued to be profitable and enjoyable events. There would be a celebratory gathering in the garden on the day following the Coronation of King Charles III and souvenirs from the UK would be welcome (costs refundable if needed). The regular Radio Pepper concerts would continue and other bookings were coming in.

Any Other Business: the Bishop of Truro would be with us from 9th-13th March for meetings/discussions on his book on Christian persecution worldwide and he would receive, baptize and confirm members of the congregation;

Reader Sherry Angelis, a long-time member of our congregation, was now a resident of the Loida Home in Ekali.

Nelly Paraskevopoulou, our Reader in Training, would complete her course in summer. Best wishes for the success of his UK interviews re: training for Ordination were given to Angelos Palioudakis.

Discussions continued in the search for 2 Sunday School supervisors. Donations of plants for the garden were always welcome and Shirley Poulakis would again provide flower posies for Mothers’ Day.

Council’s second meeting with Diocesan Archdeacon Leslie Nathaniel would take place in February to continue the process of finding and appointing a Chaplain to serve at St. Paul’s following the retirement of Father Leonard at the end of July.

The meeting closed at 12.40.

Jean Mertzanakis (Hon. Secretary)

Coronation memob Blog

St Paul’s Coronation Bazaar

St Paul’s is delighted to announce that the Coronation Bazaar will have on sale a wide range of memorabilia celebrating the Coronation of King Charles III, as well as our beloved late Queen Elizabeth.  Items include commemorative Spode plates, a wide selection of mugs, tea towels, t-shirts, shopping bags, playing cards, tea tins, shortbread tins and fridge magnets.  Come and buy these wonderful souvenirs, but get there early, as stocks are limited!
Bazaar Blog  2
Baptism Web

Baptism of George Remy

On 15 April 2023 family and friends gathered together at St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens to celebrate the Baptism of George Remy.

Fr Leonard led the service which consisted of prayers, renewal of Baptismal promises, sprinkling of water over George’s head, anointing with Oil and the lighting of the Baptismal Candle. George’s parents and Godparents also received a candle.

At the end of the service Fr Leonard blessed the baby and the congregation and everyone went out into the garden where delicious refreshments were served.

 

A very happy day was held by all and we welcome George Remy into the St Paul’s family.

Madonna 7 Child Blog

Spring Newsletter – E-Mag

Our latest Newsletter has now been published so please click on the link below for access

Please click here to open the magazine

Anyone who would like to receive this bimonthly magazine  please send an email to Oliver at  <oliversamuelknight@outlook.com>
We hope you enjoy reading this interesting and informative publication.
We are always on the lookout for new articles, photographs and recipes so please send these in to Oliver Samuel at the above address.
Evensong 1

35th Choral Evensong at St Paul’s

We are delighted to announce the return of the Choral Evensong to St Paul’s on this coming Easter Sunday at 8.00pm. For those who have yet to experience this service it is definitely not to be missed with beautiful traditional choral music and prayers.

 

35th Renaissance Vespers St. Pauls Anglican Church (Filellinon 27, Athens) Sunday, April 9, at 8:30 pm After a long silence, and with even greater joy, Schola Cantorum Sancti Pauli returns with the Resurrection 35th Renaissance Vespers at St. Paul‘s Anglican Church, on Palm Sunday 9 April 2023 (Resurrection Sunday in the Anglican calendar).
Cantores Sancti Pauli under the baton of Jason Marmaras will sing organ accompaniment Thomas Tomkins5th “Strophic” Evening Service, as well as William Byrds ResurrectionStrophic Anthemios Christ Rising Again. Works by Th. Tallis, O. Lassus, and I.M., and a Gregorian member will also be heard.
The tradition of Verse Anthems flourished in 17thcentury England. The adjectivestrophic refers to the alternation (not necessarily per stanza of the poetic text) between a singer (or small part of the choir) with the full ensemble. Where the full vocal ensemble does not sing, there will be instrumental accompaniment, usually by the organ.
Cantores Sancti Pauli Aliki Siousti, Zoe Dimopoulou, Ilia Stampoli, Angeliki Argiri Zannis Kanterakis, Konstantinos Karageorgiou Elias Vlastos (adiutor directoris musices)  Iason Marmaras (director musices)

READ MORE

gallery far left

A Tale of Two Cities – A Blog by Bishop Philip of Truro

The two cities we normally associate with that phrase are, of course, London and Paris. Both are cities in which I have been privileged to minister, and which I hold in great affection. But I want to write about my recent trip to two quite different cities – to Hull and Athens.

I grant you that, unlike London and Paris, Hull and Athens aren’t normally paired in people’s minds. But they might have more in common than you might think (and not just because I recently visited them). But first, let me explain I was doing in them both.

In both, I was responding to long-delayed invitations to speak on the subject of Freedom of Religion or Belief, following the work I did a few years ago for the Foreign Office on the persecution of Christians. That work both led (to my great surprise) to a change in government policy, and has become an enduring passion of mine – a cause which I believe God has laid on my heart to continue to champion.

In Hull, I was invited to deliver the William Wilberforce Lecture, in honour of Hull’s greatest son: the great champion of the cause of the abolition of slavery. It was good to be back in the city not only where Wilberforce was born, and which he represented in Parliament, but in which I myself used to live. Indeed I worked out that the last time I had been in the room in the Guildhall where I spoke was in the early 70s for a children’s fancy dress party!

And it was, I felt, a very fitting subject to speak on there. Today, many, many people the world over are having their rights compromised, and their livelihoods – and their very lives – threatened, simply because they belong to religious minorities. Their lives and livelihoods are threatened through oppressive governments which combine, to varying degrees, a toxic mix of authoritarianism, nationalism and fundamentalism. Look at the fate of the Rohingya in Myanmar, the Uighurs in China, and Christians in the Middle Belt of Nigeria – to cite just three examples. The fate of religious minorities in the world’s two most populous countries, in India and China, is much more precarious than it was a decade ago.

READ MORE

Easter Tree Blog

OUR TREE OF LIFE AND HOPE

 

As we follow in the footsteps of Our Saviour Jesus Christ on his journey to the Cross, unlike those who did so more than two thousand years ago we do so knowing of His Glorious Resurrection. Throughout the year we remember our brothers and sisters of every nation who also suffer hardship and loss at the hands of others. Help us to support them by donating an egg – symbol of birth, life and hope – to our Easter tree.

You can speak to our Treasurer, Nelly, in church or donate on our website – www.anglicanchurchathens.gr – via e-banking or Paypal. Make sure to include your name, email address and the description “TREE”. If you wish to remain anonymous, your name and “TREE ANON”.

Join us in love and thanksgiving as we prepare to welcome the resurrected Lord into our lives.

Lilies Blog

Easter Lilies – In Memorium

EASTER LILIES

In Memoriam

 

Once again we can remember our loved ones at this special time of year by donating beautiful lilies to be placed in church and having their names recorded in our Book of Remembrance. You can do this personally, in church, by speaking to Noelle Barkshire.  You can  do so via e-banking or Paypal on our website: www.anglicanchurchathens.gr – just click on Support St. Paul’s – Donations – for details and give your name and “Lilies”. Then email our Treasurer Nelly at nelly.parask@gmail.com with names for our Book.

Easter blessings to everyone and thank you for your support.

feel_the_spirit

March Events at St Paul’s

 

STRINGLESS AND MOONMOTH

Saturday 11th March 2023, 21:30

at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 27 Filellinon street, Syntagma, Athens

Two musical ensembles from two different aesthetic worlds, will compose a contradictory but at the same time harmonious evening concert where the female voices will play a dominant role.

Information and booking: viva.gr

THE EVENT IS SOLD OUT

Organized by: George Georgakopoulos

Stringless Blog

 

EMI PATH and MARVA CON THEO

Saturday 18th March 2023, 21:30

at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 27 Filellinon street, Syntagma, Athens

The two Athenian ensembles collaborate and compose an immersive, atmospheric evening at St Paul’s Anglican Church. Emotionally charged vocals, ambient and dreamy soundscapes, electronic sounds will accompany the presentation of Emi Path’s new album entitled VOID together with Marva con Theo’s Atmospheres project.

Information and booking: viva.gr

Organized by: George Georgakopoulos

Emi Blog

READ MORE

Martha

Martha Von Theo Live at St Paul’s

Marva Von Theo

Come join us for an immersive, atmospheric, almost ritualistic evening.
On Sat 18 March, we will make a one-off performance of our project “Atmospheres” along with Emi Path’s new album presentation. We will perform selected songs from our discography, as well as new, unreleased songs, orchestrated exclusively for Anglican Church Athens Greece
Ethereal synths, dreamy, cinematic soundscapes will flow reverently throughout the space of the church and will be contrasted with our eerily dark electronic sounds, in a poetic confrontation between light and darkness, love and death.💀🖤
🎫 Tickets are available on viva[.]gr. Limited seats.
Dicoese in. Europe

Bishop’s Lent Appeal 2023

Dicoese in. Europe

16 February 2023

To the Clergy and People of the Diocese in Europe

Very soon we will embark on our Lenten journey once again. These are extraordinary times, with war continuing in Ukraine (the focus of our 2022 Appeal), and with unprecedented suffering in South East Türkiye and North West Syria as a result of recent earthquakes. The people of our diocese have been generous in responding to these huge needs, and certainly the people of Ukraine and Türkiye/Syria are very much in our prayers.

It has been the tradition for the Bishop’s Lent Appeal to focus on a particular need within our diocesan family. We have pockets within the diocese where the reality is much more like the developing world than what is experienced in the comparatively rich north. One such area of the diocese is Morocco.

Many have now settled in the region of the capital, Rabat, where we have not had a permanent Church presence. Thanks to the vision of past chaplains in Casablanca and the dedication of a core of supporters in Rabat, a new congregation is being built up. This year’s Bishop’s Lent Appeal is to support this congregation in the next crucial phase of its development.

Archdeacon David Waller outlines below more details of this project:

Read the full context of the Bishop’s Appeal here

How you can donate to the Bishop in Europe’s Lent Appeal 2023 :

 By cheque:

 “Advent Appeal 2022”.

 Diocese in Europe Board of Finance

1 4, Tufton St

 London SW1P 3QZ

 By bank transfer:

 Account number: 40317039

 Sort code: 20-06-13

 IBAN: GB16 BUKB 2006 1340 3170 39

 Swiftbic: BUKBGB22

On the Diocese in Europe Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/diocese-ineurope

Or: via your Chaplaincy Treasurer to Nick Wraight in the Diocesan Office

Home Page.1

Minutes of St Paul’s Parish Council Committee Meeting held 1st October 2022

The minutes of these meetings can only be published after they have been signed off by Fr Leonard at the following meeting.

 

The meeting was held in church and opened with a prayer at 10.30 a.m. The Minutes of the July meeting were approved and signed by Father Leonard.
Linda Paparsenos was thanked for her work as Local Environment Officer (LEO) and this position was now open.

Mr. Athanatos at Athens City Council had been thanked for a donation of bedding plants for the church garden.

Hymn books had been cleaned and covered with plastic until a curtain was provided.

Following financial losses during the Covid years, further financial assistance (€1,873) had been received from the Diocese. Diocesan financial support for the position of church
supervisor would end in 2023 – Council agreed that we should take over this funding due to the importance of the church being open to the public five mornings per week.
Other items discussed were:

Two people would be needed to supervise Sunday School following Lynne Doolan’s departure in summer, 2023. Health and Safety regulations were being applied and
regular safety checks of the church premises and garden were made.

Archdeacon Leslie would visit Athens in November for meetings with Council and Church wardens to discuss the procedure for finding a replacement for Father Leonard in
2023.

READ MORE

Theodore Blog

What’s on – Concerts at St Paul’s

CHURCH SESSIONS Season 6 by Radio PEPPER 96,6 FM

GOOD JOB NICKY

Monday 20TH February 2023, 20:30

at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 27 Filellinon street, Syntagma, Athens

Radio Pepper 96.6 launches the New Year at St Paul’s Anglican Church with a pop and alternative concert given by Theodore and his band, as part of the “Church Sessions 6”.  Theodore’s atmospheric sound is a mix of classic, piano driven compositions, with electronic ranging from ambient to minimal, to gritty 80s synth wave.

ENTRANCE WITH INVITATIONS ONLY

Information and invitation: Radio Pepper 96.6 FM

https://www.pepper966.gr/

Tel. 213 0189000

————————————————————————————————–

GROSSMONT HIGH SCHOOL RED ROBE CHOIR

Tuesday 21st February 2023, 19:30

The choir is on tour to Greece and will present a programme of classical music.

FREE ENTRANCE-RETIRING COLLECTION

Information and reservations: Hellas Vacances, tel. 210 9235638

Organised by: Hellas Vacances

Grossmont Blolg

 

SAVINA GIANNATOU & GIASEMI VOCAL QUARTET

Saturday 25TH February 2023, 20:30

A vocal “a cappella” concert of traditional songs from different parts of the world and Greek traditional songs rewritten for vocal ensemble

ENTRANCE WITH TICKETS

Ticket Prices:

20€, 15€ from viva.gr

Information: 6978550086

Organised by: Creative Music Island AMKE

Giannatou Blog

January Newsletter – E-Mag

Our latest Newsletter has now been published so please click on the link below for access

Magazine January 2023

Anyone who would like to receive this bimonthly magazine  please send an email to Oliver at  <oliversamuelknight@outlook.com>
We hope you enjoy reading this interesting and informative publication.
We are always on the lookout for new articles, photographs and recipes so please send these in to Oliver Samuel at the above address.

Community Connect Coffee Morning

community_connect_athens_350X230

COMMUNITY CONNECT

ATHENS

Invites you to join us at our First Coffee Morning of the year

 on Thursday 12th January from 11.00am to 1.00pm

 At The Swedish Centre, Sortiros 7,Plaka

We will be cutting the Vasilopita

and we will also have Sheila G Bardas talking about her book ‘Winter Swimmers Club’

 on sale there will be

Books, Good quality 2nd hand clothing,

Preserves & Handmade Greeting cards

Mini Bingo & Lucky Chair.

Community Connect Athens

Is now on the second Thursday every month

Contact Anne: 6938973623 or 2105129261

SEE YOU THERE!

Proceeds to the Anglican Church Athens and nominated Charities.

007

HARK THE HERALD ANGELS SING – OUR 2022 CHRISTMAS APPEAL

FILL THE SKY WITH ANGELS AND HELP THOSE IN NEED!

Every Christmas, we remember the Herald Angels who gathered over the humble stable in Bethlehem where Mary and Joseph took shelter for the birth of the Holy Child. The glorious song of God’s messengers welcomed His Son, our Saviour and the Light of the World.

Help us to fill the sky with music!

See your angel join the heavenly choir on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Anglican/Athens or on our website at  www.anglicanchurchathens.gr where you will also find details of how to make your donation.

 

Our seventh Angel has joined the heavenly chorus.  Our grateful thanks to Jean for her generous contribution.READ MORE

Trinity 7

Service for the feast of Christ The King – 20th November 2022

Welcome to St Paul’s Athens,   especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Deacon Christine leads our worship today, and is the preacher. Fr. Leonard is on holiday in Scotland. We welcome today our partnership friends from Apostoli, Dr. Vasileios Meichanetsidis and Dr. Vassi Leontari.

We have a POS – you can make your donation to St. Paul’s by card. Please come to coffee in the garden after the Liturgy.

 

Opening Hymn:  205  Christ is made the sure foundation

 

Minister:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father

and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Minister:  O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Minister: Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

 

The minister then welcomes people informally.

 

Prayers of Penitence

Minister:   As we come to the Lord at the start of this New Year, let us seek his grace to number our days, that we may apply our hearts to wisdom as we confess our sins in penitence and faith.

 

All: Lord God, we have sinned against you;

       we have done evil in your sight.

       We are sorry and repent.

       Have mercy on us according to your love.

       Wash away our wrongdoing and cleanse us from our sin.

       Renew a right spirit within us and restore us to the joy of your salvation;

       through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Minister:  May the Father of all mercies cleanse us from our sins, and restore us

in his image to the praise and glory of his name, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:            Amen

 

Psalm       531  Jesus reigns, our Lord and King

READ MORE

Christmas Bazaar 2022 A6

The famous St Paul’s Christmas Bazaar

The Anglican Church Christmas Bazaar dates from 1953 and is the oldest of its kind in Greece. This year, once again, it will be held in the foyer of the War Museum on Vassilis Sofias Avenue, opposite Evangelismos Hospital, on Sunday, 4th December from 11 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

 

So why not come along, meet friends old and new, enjoy a taste of all things British and browse the many stalls that include gifts, jewellery, jams & chutneys, Christmas decorations, calendars and tea-towels, cakes and Christmas puddings, Christmas cards, quality used clothing and our ever-popular book stall. Something for everyone and for every pocket! Grand Raffle with lovely prizes! Delicious snacks, Bar and our famous Irish Coffee! We look forward to welcoming you, your families and friends as we begin our Christmas celebrations by having fun whilst caring for those in need!

All proceeds support the Anglican Church in Greece and its nominated charities. St. Paul’s will be open to receive donations from Tuesday November 29th to Saturday December 3rd, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For further information will soon be available on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AnglicanAthens and at www. Anglicanchurchathens.gr

 

READ MORE

Peace

A Service for Remembrance Sunday – 13th November 2022

Welcome to our worship on this Remembrance Sunday. A particular welcome to His Excellency Matthew Lodge, British Ambassador, and Captain Alex Bush (RN), Defence Attache. This Worship is led by The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan, Senior Chaplain, who is also the preacher. There is a Noon ceremony at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery at Alimos.

 

Priest:      Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Priest:      O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Priest:      Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

Hymn:    

1 God is our strength and refuge,
our present help in trouble,

and we therefore will not fear,
though the earth should change!
Though mountains shake and tremble,
though swirling floods are raging,

God the Lord of hosts is with us evermore!

 

2 There is a flowing river

within God’s holy city;
God is in the midst of her-
she shall not be moved!
God’s help is swiftly given,
thrones vanish at his presence-
God the Lord of hosts is with us evermore!

3 Come, see the works of our maker,
learn of his deeds all-powerful:
wars will cease across the world
when he shatters the spear!
Be still and know your creator,
uplift him in the nations-
God the Lord of hosts is with us evermore!                       After Psalm 46, Richard Bewes (born 1934)

© Richard Bewes/Jubilate Hymns

 

Ever- living God, we remember those whom you have gathered from the storm of war into the peace of your presence; may that same peace calm our fears, bring justice to all peoples, and establish harmony among the nations, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Prayers of Penitence

Let us confess to God the sins and shortcomings of the world; its pride, its selfishness, its greed; its evil divisions and hatreds. Let us confess our share in what is wrong, and our failure to seek and establish that peace which God wills for his people.

 

All:           Lord God, we have sinned against you;

                 we have done evil in your sight.

                 We are sorry and repent.

                 Have mercy on us according to your love.

                 Wash away our wrongdoing and cleanse us from our sin.

                 Renew a right spirit within us and restore us to the joy of your salvation;

                 through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Priest:      May the Father of all mercies cleanse you from your sins, and restore you

in his image to the praise and glory of his name, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:            Amen

READ MORE

New Season’s Concerts at St Paul’s

CHURCH SESSIONS Season 6 by Radio PEPPER 96,6 FM

GOOD JOB NICKY

Saturday 07TH November 2022, 20:30

at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 27 Filellinon street, Syntagma, Athens

Radio Pepper 96.6 launches the new season at St Paul’s Anglican Church with the pop singer Good Job Nicky, as part of the “Church Sessions 6”.  The Greek singer and English-singing pop star, made his debut in 2020. He writes his own music and makes visual art, that captures the youth culture and dynamic. He has already won the public’s interest and admiration.

ENTRANCE WITH INVITATIONS ONLY

Information and invitation: Radio Pepper 96.6 FM

https://www.pepper966.gr/

Tel. 213 0189000

Organized by: Radio Pepper 96.6 FM

Good Job Nikky blog

READ MORE

Sunday before Advent

Service for the 3rd Sunday before Advent – 6th November 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church, and bottles of water are for sale. Fr. Leonard will preside today and the preacher is the Venerable Leslie Nathaniel, our Archdeacon. Welcome to him and Julie, his wife. The deacon is Deacon Christine.

 

Entrance Hymn          352  Crown him with many crowns

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into        Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.                            (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

Deacon:            Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                           Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                           Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the feast of All Saints – 30th October 2022

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church, and bottles for sale. Names of our departed loved ones will be read out in our prayers today. The deacon is Deacon Christine and Fr. Leonard will preside and preach. We welcome Katia Papakonstantinou and her son Konstantinos who have been outreach partners of St. Paul’s for many years.

 

Entrance Hymn             O when the saints go marching in 

  1. Oh, when the saints Go marching in Oh, when the saints go marching in

Oh how I want to be in that number, When the saints go marching in

 

  1. Oh, when the drums begin to bang Oh, when the drums begin to bang

I want to be in that number,  When the saints go marching in

 

  1. Oh, when the stars fall from the sky Oh, when the stars fall from the sky

I want to be in that number, When the saints go marching in

 

  1. Oh, when the trumpet sounds its call Oh, when the trumpet sounds its call

I want to be in that number When the saints go marching in

 

  1. Oh, when the saints go marching in Oh, when the saints go marching in

I want to be in that number, When the saints go marching

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.                            (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

Deacon:            Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                           Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                           Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

GloriaGlory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us, you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive, receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Almighty God, you have knit together your elect in one communion and fellowship in the mystical body of your Son Christ our Lord: grant us grace so to follow your blessed saints in all virtuous and godly living that we may come to those inexpressible joys that you have prepared for those who truly love you; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

 

First Reading  Daniel 7, 1-3, 15-18  (please sit)                 Reader:  Oliver Knight

In the first year of King Belshazzar of Babylon, Daniel had a dream and visions of his head as he lay in bed. Then he wrote down the dream: I, Daniel, saw in my vision by night the four winds of heaven stirring up the great sea, and four great beasts came up out of the sea, different from one another. As for me, Daniel, my spirit was troubled within me, and the visions of my head terrified me. I approached one of the attendants to ask him the truth concerning all this. So he said that he would disclose to me the interpretation of the matter: “As for these four great beasts, four kings shall arise out of the earth. But the holy ones of the Most High shall receive the kingdom and possess the kingdom forever—forever and ever.”

Reader:                   This is the word of the Lord.

All:                           Thanks be to God.

 

Psalm: (hymn Book) 539   This is the day of Lord: we rejoice and are glad

 

Second Reading     Ephesians 1, 11-end                                Reader:  Magdalene Imarhiagbe

In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will, so that we, who were the first to set our hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit; this is the pledge of our inheritance toward redemption as God’s own people, to the praise of his glory. I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, and for this reason I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may perceive what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power. God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come. And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.

Reader:              This is the word of the Lord.

All:                      Thanks be to God.

 

Gospel Hymn    231  Who are these like stars appearing

Gospel Reading        (turn towards the gospel book)

Deacon:       Alleluia! Speak Lord, for your servant is listening. You have the words of eternal life.

All (sung):   Alleluia      

Deacon:       The Lord be with you

All:                and also with you

Deacon:       Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Luke   (Luke 6, 20-31)

All:                Glory to you, O Lord.

Then he looked up at his disciples and said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. “Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled. “Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice on that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven, for that is how their ancestors treated the prophets. “But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. “Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry. “Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep. “Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets. “But I say to you who are listening: Love your enemies; do good to those who hate you; bless those who curse you; pray for those who mistreat you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who asks of you, and if anyone takes away what is yours, do not ask for it back again. Do to others as you would have them do to you.

At the end of the Gospel

Deacon:  This is the gospel of the Lord

All:           Praise to you, O Christ. 

Sermon  (Please sit) 

 

Creed      (Please stand)

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father: through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.  Amen.

 

Intercessions:  (kneel or sit) Lord in your mercy; hear our prayer             (Alice Karanja)

 

Peace:  To crown all things there must be love, to bind all together and complete the whole. Let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts.

All:        And also with you.

Offertory Hymn            295 Let all mortal flesh keep silent                            The collection is taken

 

The Great Thanksgiving Prayer        (Please remain standing)

Priest:  The Lord be with you

All:        and also with you

Priest:  Lift up your hearts

All:       We lift them to the Lord

Priest:  Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

All:        It is right to give thanks and praise

The priest sings the preface for All Saints

 

AllHoly, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord Hosanna in the highest.

Priest: Lord, you are holy indeed, the source of all holiness; grant that by the power of your Holy Spirit, and according to your holy will, these gifts of bread and wine may be to us the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ;

who in the same night that he was betrayed, took bread and gave you thanks; he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat; this is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me.

In the same way, after supper he took the cup and gave you thanks; he gave it to them, saying: Drink this, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.

Nelly:         Great is the mystery of faith

All:             Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again

Priest: And so, Father, calling to mind his death on the cross, his perfect sacrifice made once for the sins of the whole world; rejoicing in his mighty resurrection and glorious ascension, and looking for his coming in glory, we celebrate this memorial of our redemption. As we offer you this our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving, we bring before you this bread and this cup and we thank you for counting us worthy to stand in your presence and serve you.

Send the Holy Spirit on your people and gather into one in your kingdom all who share this one bread and one cup, so that we, in the company of the Holy Mother of God, St. Paul, all the saints, may praise and glorify you for ever, through Jesus Christ our Lord; by whom, and with whom, and in whom, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory be yours, almighty Father, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

The Lord’s Prayer:              (to be prayed in whichever language you choose)

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Priest: We break this bread to share in the body of the risen Christ.

All:       Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.

 

Sung:   Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world,

have mercy on us, have mercy on us          (sing twice)

Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, grant us peace.

 

Priest:  Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Happy are those who are called to his supper.

All:       Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word and I shall be healed

 

All baptized Christians may come forward to receive the body and blood of Christ. If you wish you may receive a blessing. Please let the Sides-people guide you forward.

Communion hymn:      272 All for Jesus      If you wish to receive the wine from the cup, you are free to do so, otherwise the priest will instinct (dip) your bread in the wine.

 

Post Communion Prayer:  Let us pray     (please stand)

Priest: God, the source of all holiness and giver of all good things: may we who have shared at this table as strangers and pilgrims here on earth be welcomed with all your saints to the heavenly feast on the day of your kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

All. We thank you, Lord, that you have fed us in this sacrament, united us with Christ, and given us a foretaste of the heavenly banquet prepared for all peoples.  Amen.

 

The names of the Departed will be read out

 

Notices

 

Post Communion Hymn:   394  Let all the world

 

Blessing and Dismissal

Priest:       God grant you grace to follow his saints …..

Deacon:    Go in peace to love and serve the Lord

All:             In the name of Christ. Amen.

Fr. Leonard’s usual Days Off – Monday & Tuesday  (in emergencies contact Deacon Christine)

Home tel :  210 72 14 906;  email anglican@otenet.gr

Deacon Chris: 22950 53164: Day Off – Friday.

Swedish Church: contact Fr. Bjorn on  694 607 2428

 

Notices :

  • The new church history and guide book ‘OPENING the DOORS’ is now available at the cost of €10,00.
  • Remembrance Sunday – November 13th. Poppies are for sale now.
  • A POS is available so you can make your Sunday donation by card
  • Join the online Prayer Group each Tuesday morning at 09.00 – see website for the Zoom link.
  • Community Connect Coffee Mornings – every second Wednesday 11.00-13.00. Nov 9th; Dec 14th (both in Swedish Centre). Contact Anne Dedes if you need information.
  • Christmas Bazaar – at the Foyer of the Amphitheatre of the War Museum – December 4th.
  • Christmas Services:
  • Sunday 18th December 18.00 Carols Sing-a-long

           Saturday 24th December 18.00  Lessons and Carols

           Sunday 25th December 10.00  Christmas Morning Liturgy

 

  • Liturgical material © the Archbishops’ Council.

 

Home Page.1

Minutes of Council Meeting held on 9th July 2022

ST PAUL’S 380TH COUNCIL MEETING – 9TH JULY 2022

Due to the summer break and the necessity to postpone the September meeting, these minutes were signed as a correct record of proceedings by Father Leonard on 1st October.

  • Lynn Stavrou was appointed vice-Chairperson until the 2023 APCM and a possible co-option to council was under consideration (co-options last for one year only, during which co-optees can acquaint themselves with the workings of the Church Council; during that time they have the right to vote).
  • A letter of thanks for our support of the Diocesan Common Fund (for assisting churches throughout the Diocese) had been received from Bishop Robert;
  • Lynne Doolan’s letter regarding children’s resources was discussed – she and Father Leonard would bring Children’s Bibles from the UK in July and a donation of 500 Euros had been received from a visitor.
  • Following the Jubilee Bazaar it was good to learn that the deficit had decreased and requests for concert bookings were expected after the summer; fees for all services requested at St. Paul’s and elsewhere would be increased after several years commencing from 1st September, with regular reviews.
  • Guarding the church gate on Sundays should concern all members of the congregation, not only those assigned to this duty; the reconvening of Sunday School in September would require a second person (with safeguarding certification – available online) to assist Lynne Doolan; Sunday School could not take place in the Crypt as there was no second exit point;
  • A case of unruly behaviour at the Jubilee Bazaar had been dealt with and a threat had been made to Church warden Trevor when requesting to see vaccination certificates – both incidents had been officially recorded. The Bazaar and the concert of traditional English music by the Athens Singers had been a great success; more large umbrellas would be purchased for similar events; book sales continue to do well; a combined book launch of Father Leonard’s “Opening the Doors” and wine-tasting would be arranged at Ag. Filothei, an Ottoman-era house in Plaka; books would be sold at the Harvest Festival. Matilda and Clara were thanked for assisting at the Patronal Festival;
  • Work on St. Paul’s newsletter was progressing and would be further discussed at the September Council meeting;
  • Churchwarden Trevor would price the purchase of a frame for the mulberry tree;
  • problems with the air-conditioning system would be addressed;
  • Organist/ Concert Organiser Christina was thanked for her work and her proposals regarding church hire fees; an offer of payment for the rebinding of hymn books was gratefully acknowledged and some of the hymnals used by the choir would also be restored.

Jean Mertzanakis (Hon. Secretary)

 

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the Last Sunday after Trinity – 23rd October 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church, and bottles for sale. Welcome to The Revd. Gary Grady from the South Cheltenham Team, and Area Dean of Cheltenham. He comes with the Cantores choir from Cheltenham. Fr. Gary will preside and preach. Nelly Paraskevopoulou is assisting. Fr. Leonard and Deacon Christine are in Prague for the Archdeaconry Synod.

 

Introit:    If ye love me  (Thomas Tallis)

 

Entrance Hymn   427  O praise ye the Lord

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Nelly: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.                            (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

Nelly:                Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

Nelly:                You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                           Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

 Nelly:                You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                           Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

Harvest Festival is celebrated by the Anglican Church in Greece

Last Sunday The Anglican Church in Greece celebrated their Harvest Festivals in two locations 360km apart!

 

St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens travelled up by bus to the Winery and Vineyard of the Kokotos Estate where we were guests of our old friends Anne Kokotos & her Family.  Surrounded by vineyards and fruits of the harvest, we held our service of thanksgiving for the Harvest.  After the service there was an opportunity to taste and purchase a selection of wines before making our way down through the beautiful grounds to the wonderful marquee where a delicious buffet lunch awaited us. Afterwards there was music and entertainment and everyone got on the floor and danced. At the end of the afternoon a happy but tired  congregation made their way back to the bus for the journey back to Athens.

Our thanks to Anne Kokotos and her family for their generous hospitality and to the pupils of Byron School for giving up their Sunday to come and assist with serving the buffet lunch.

 

READ MORE

Happy New Year

Community Connect Coffee Morning

community_connect_athens_350X230

COMMUNITY CONNECT

ATHENS

Invites you to join us at our First Coffee Morning of the year

 on Thursday 12th January from 11.00am to 1.00pm

 At The Swedish Centre, Sortiros 7,Plaka

We will be cutting the Vasilopita

and we will also have Sheila G Bardas talking about her book ‘Winter Swimmers Club’

 on sale there will be

Books, Good quality 2nd hand clothing,

Preserves & Handmade Greeting cards

Mini Bingo & Lucky Chair.

Community Connect Athens

Is now on the second Thursday every month

Contact Anne: 6938973623 or 2105129261

SEE YOU THERE!

Proceeds to the Anglican Church Athens and nominated Charities.

 

 

Choir

Cantores Chamber Choir Saturday 22nd October 2022

CANTORES CHAMBER CHOIR

                                 Saturday 22th October 2022, 19:00

         at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 27 Filellinon street, Syntagma, Athens

Cantores Chamber Choir is a choir of 30 dedicated singers formed in 1991 and based at the Cotswolds, England, an area of outstanding natural beauty, as designated in 1966 , with the unique golden-coloured Cotswold stone.

The choir perform a cappella three programme a year around the Cotswolds . Occasionally  it is accompanied by an organ or a small orchestra. In 2018 the choir had a successful trip to Belgium, where they performed at the Saint Jakobskerk, Brugge.

The choir loves to sing old music but also enjoys the challenge of new music. In its Athenian visit, the choir is going to present a programme of  western classical music, mostly a cappella , under the  musical direction of Simon Harper.

Organized by: CANTORES CHAMBER CHOIR

ENTRANCE FREE – RETIRING COLLECTION

Harvest Blog 2021

Harvest Festival 9th October 2022

Kokotos Winery Athens

Opening hymn:

We plough the fields, and scatter
the good seed on the land,
but it is fed and watered
by God’s almighty hand:
he sends the snow in winter,
the warmth to swell the grain,
the breezes, and the sunshine,
and soft, refreshing rain.

Refrain:
All good gifts around us
are sent from heaven above;
then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord,
for all his love.

2 He only is the maker
of all things near and far;
he paints the wayside flower,
he lights the evening star;
the winds and waves obey him,
by him the birds are fed;
much more to us, his children,
he gives our daily bread. [Refrain]

3 We thank thee then, O Father,
for all things bright and good,
the seed-time and the harvest,
our life, our health, our food.
Accept the gifts we offer
for all thy love imparts,
and, what thou most desirest,
our humble, thankful hearts. [Refrain]

 

Priest: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ

All:  and also with you.

 

The priest welcomes everyone to the liturgy. The deacon then leads the Confession

 

Deacon: God’s whole creation groans.  We confess our sin in penitence and faith.

 

Deacon: Consider the birds of the air; they do not sow or gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Lord have mercy.

All: Lord have mercy

Deacon: Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they do not toil or spin, yet even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Christ have mercy.

All: Christ have mercy

Deacon: How little faith we have. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. Lord have mercy.

All: Christ have mercy.

The priest then pronounces the words of Absolution.

READ MORE

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the 16th Sunday after Trinity – 2nd October 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church, and bottles for sale.  Fr. Leonard will preside and preach. The deacon is Deacon Christine. There is coffee available in the garden after the Liturgy.

 

Entrance Hymn   

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.                            (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

Deacon:            Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                           Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                           Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

Anglican Church Athens Harvest Festival

St Paul’s Harvest Festival at Kokotos Vineyard Sunday 9th October 2022

Join us on Sunday 9th October to celebrate the Harvest in the beautiful surroundings of the Kokotos Estate, 1 Ktima G. Kokotou, Stamata, 145 75.

 

11 a.m. Harvest Eucharist Service.

Everyone welcome – gifts of dried or tinned goods for the Sisters of Mercy gratefully received.

 

12.30 p.m. Wine tasting

With the opportunity to purchase some of the delicious wines produced by the estate.

 

1.30 p.m. onwards Harvest Lunch.

 

Tickets

€15 Adults / €8 Children (4-10 years) / €40 Family (2 adults / 2 children 4-10)

 

Transport

To book seats on the St. Paul’s coach contact Lynn Stavrou on 211 183 8414 / 6938 325 088.  Email: lynnstav@gmail.com

Please note that numbers are limited so early booking is advised.

 

For event tickets and further information contact :

Lynn Stavrou (see above) OR Shirley Poulakis – 210 934 2830 / 6932 924 849.

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the 15th Sunday afterTrinity – 25th September 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church, and bottles for sale.  Fr. Leonard will preside and preach. The deacon is Deacon Christine. There is coffee available in the garden after the Liturgy.

Entrance Hymn    148  The God of Abram  (omit * verses)

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.                            (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

Deacon:            Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                           Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                           Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

GloriaGlory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us, you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive, receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Lord God, defend your Church from all false teaching and give to your people knowledge of your truth, that we may enjoy eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord.    Amen.

 READ MORE

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the 14th Sunday after Trinity – 18th September 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church, and bottles for sale.  Fr. Leonard will preside. Deacon Christine will preach. Today Rebecca Misthou of the Salvation Army is with us. She runs the ‘Green Light’ project which St. Paul’s supports. There is coffee available in the garden after the Liturgy.

 

Entrance Hymn    395  Let bells peal forth

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.                            (A short period of stillness and silence)

Deacon:            Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                           Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                           Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 READ MORE

Service picture blog

A Service of Commemoration for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II – Saturday 17th September 2022

Introit sung by the Athens Singers  Thou knowest Lord the secrets of our heart

(Purcell)

Opening Sentences 

‘I am the resurrection and the life,’ says the Lord. ‘Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.’  John 11, 25-26

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.  Matthew 5, 4

Welcome (Father Leonard)

1 O God, our help in ages past,
our hope for years to come,
our shelter from the stormy blast,
and our eternal home:

2 Under the shadow of your throne
your saints have dwelt secure;
sufficient is your arm alone,
and our defense is sure.

3 Before the hills in order stood,
or earth received its frame,
from everlasting you are God,
to endless years the same.

4 A thousand ages in your sight
are like an evening gone,
short as the watch that ends the night
before the rising sun.

5 Time, like an ever-rolling stream,
soon bears us all away;
we fly forgotten, as a dream
dies at the op’ning day.

6 O God, our help in ages past,
our hope for years to come,
still be our guard while troubles last,
and our eternal home!

Collect:

Gracious God, we give thanks

for the life of your servant Queen Elizabeth,

for her faith and her dedication to duty.

Bless our nation as we mourn her death

and may her example continue to inspire us;

through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

READ MORE

E-Mag Cover

Our New E_Mag is here!

We are delighted to announce that our new E-mag is now available to read and enjoy.

Click here to open the new E-Magazine

 

Our grateful thanks go to Oliver Knight for his hard work in producing this colourful and entertaining magazine.  A new magazine will be produced on a bi-monthly basis and any notices or pictures should be sent to him  Here

community_connect_athens_1100

Community Connect Coffee Mornings resume

Central Athens (close to Syntagma Square and its metro station)

On the second Wednesday of each month from 11.00am until 1.00pm Community Connect  Coffee morning. Coffee and refreshments are available, as well as English books, cards, jams, second-hand clothing and other items for sale. Everyone is welcome. There is no agenda; it is just an opportunity to chat, make friends, catch up with news, share information – all over a cup of coffee.

This month it will take place in the Church Garden, information about future coffee Mornings will be posted on our website and Social Media pages.

For more information, please ring (+30) 210 721 4906.

Queen

HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II RIP

A service of commemoration for the life of Queen Elizabeth II

will take place at St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens 

on Saturday 17th September 2022 at 11.00 hrs

ALL ARE WELCOME

Gracious Father

Whose Son Jesus Christ is the resurrection and the life

Pour out your mercy on your faithful people in all lands

As we pray with thanksgiving for the life Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

And commend her into your loving embrace.

We praise you for her faith, for her steadfastness and for her humility.

Surround her family and loved ones with your Holy Spirit

Giver of hope and comfort.

Bless His Majesty King Charles and all the Royal family at this time of loss.

We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

 

God save the King.

A book of condolences is available at the Church for people to sign

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the 13th Sunday after Trinity – 11th September 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church, and bottles for sale.  Fr. Leonard will preside and preach. The Assistant is Nelly Paraskevopoulou. There is coffee available in the garden after the Liturgy.

 

Entrance Hymn    437 Praise the Lord

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Nelly: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.                            (A short period of stillness and silence)

Nelly:                Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

Nelly:                You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                           Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Nelly:                You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                           Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 READ MORE

Apostoli

Part-time English Teacher required

INVITATION OF EXPRESSION OF INTEREST TO RECRUIT STAFF
“APOSTOLI”, an urban non-profit company, in the context of the implementation of the program “INTEGRATION OF REFUGEES IN THE GREEK SOCIETY – MAKING A NEW HOME, a sub-project of Give for Greece IX” financed by the international organization IOCC (International Orthodox Christian Charities) announces announces one (1) part-time English Teacher job.
See the detailed invitation on the organization’s website:
Heading Blog

Minutes for the 379th Parish Council Meeting held on 29th May 2022

The first Council meeting following the 2022 Annual Meeting took place at the Swedish Centre in Plaka on 28th May. The following matters were discussed and decisions taken:

Appointments: Jean Mertzanakis, Nelly Paraskevopoulou and Lynn Stavrou would continue to serve as Hon. Secretary, Hon. Treasurer and Safeguarding Officer for the year 2022-2023.

Covid: Mask-wearing in church would cease to be obligatory from June 1st and Churchwarden Trevor was thanked for overseeing maintenance of Covid restrictions at St. Paul’s. Online Zoom services had been well-ttended.

Communion: Following a communication from Bishop Robert, Council agreed that the Common Cup be reintroduced on Sunday 3rd July, along with the option of personal intinction.

Finances:  The income deficit for the first quarter was over 10,000 Euros but requests for church hire for concerts (a major source of income) had started to come in. In the 2nd quarter  our 7,000 Euros contribution to the Diocesan Common Fund was due but it should be borne in mind that chaplaincies could apply to this fund for help if necessary, as St. Paul’s had done recently. Full payment of a big electricity bill had been made and we would be paying no stipend from 1st August. Treasurer Nelly was thanked for the work she did on a daily basis and Verger Virginia Stevens for dealing with inconvenience and mess caused by the installation of new electricity meters that had involved digging up paving at the entrance to the church.

READ MORE

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the 12th Sunday after Trinity – 4th September 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church. Fr. Leonard will preside and preach. The deacon is Deacon Christine. There is coffee available in the garden after the Liturgy.

 

Entrance Hymn    349 Come let us join our cheerful songs

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.                            (A short period of stillness and silence)

Deacon:            Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                           Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                           Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

Taize Cross

Prayer Connect Prayer Group

Join and participate in our weekly Prayer Connect prayer group.
You are invited  to a scheduled Zoom meeting every Tuesday
Topic: Prayer Connect Prayer Group
Time:  09:00 AM Athens
Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the 11th Sunday after Trinity – 28th August 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church. Please stay for coffee in the garden after the liturgy. Fr. Leonard will preside and Deacon Christine is our preacher.

 

Entrance Hymn  440  Praise to the Lord  (omit vss 4 & 5) 

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.  (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the 10th Sunday after Trinity – 21st August 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church. Please stay for coffee in the garden after the liturgy. Fr. Leonard will preside and preach. Deacon Christine is our deacon.

 

Entrance Hymn   388  Jesus shall reign

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.  (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the 9th Sunday after Trinity – 14th August 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church. Please stay for coffee in the garden after the liturgy. Fr. Leonard will preside and preach. Deacon Christine is our deacon.

 

Entrance Hymn  333 All my hope

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.  (A short period of stillness and silence)

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for the 8th Sunday after Trinity – 7th August 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church. Please stay for coffee in the garden after the liturgy. Fr. Leonard will preside, Deacon Christine is our deacon, and the preacher is Angelos Palioudakis.

 

Entrance Hymn 237 Morning has broken

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.  (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

Trinity 7

Service for the 7th Sunday after Trinity – 31st July 2022

Welcome to St Paul’s Athens,   especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Deacon Christine leads our worship today, and is the preacher. Fr. Leonard is on holiday until August 5th.

We have a POS – you can make your donation to St. Paul’s by card. Please come to coffee in the garden after the Liturgy.

 

Opening Hymn:  239  Lord of all hopefulness

 

Minister:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father

and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Minister:  O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Minister: Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

 

The minister then welcomes people informally.

Prayers of Penitence

Minister:   As we come to the Lord at the start of this New Year, let us seek his grace to number our days, that we may apply our hearts to wisdom as we confess our sins in penitence and faith.

 

All: Lord God, we have sinned against you;

       we have done evil in your sight.

       We are sorry and repent.

       Have mercy on us according to your love.

       Wash away our wrongdoing and cleanse us from our sin.

       Renew a right spirit within us and restore us to the joy of your salvation;

       through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Minister:  May the Father of all mercies cleanse us from our sins, and restore us

in his image to the praise and glory of his name, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:            Amen

READ MORE

Iris gal.

Summer flowers at St Paul’s

Our Church garden is a small oasis of greenery and shade and our aim is to create an ‘urban garden’ that attracts bees, butterflies and birds. When Athens City Council were informed of this they generously donated many bedding plants that are doing well and provide splashes of colour to welcome our congregation and visitors as they enter and then gather in the garden following the service.
Trinity 5

Service for the 6th Sunday after Trinity – 24th July 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church. Please stay for coffee in the garden after the liturgy. Fr. Leonard will preside and preach.

Entrance Hymn  495  God is working his purpose out

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Asst: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.  (A short period of stillness and silence)

READ MORE

Trinity 5

Service for the 5th Sunday after Trinity – 17th July 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church. Please stay for coffee in the garden after the liturgy.

 

Entrance Hymn  148   The God of Abram

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

 

Asst: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.  (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

GloriaGlory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Glory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us, have mercy on us, you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive, receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Almighty God, send down upon your Church the riches of your Spirit, and kindle in all who minister the gospel your countless gifts of grace; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen

READ MORE

Good Samaritan

Service for the 4th Sunday after Trinity – 10th July 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Fr. Leonard will preside and preach; the deacon is Fr. James Harris. Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church.

 

Entrance Hymn  322 All hail the power of Jesus’ name

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.  (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

GloriaGlory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Glory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us, have mercy on us, you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive, receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen

READ MORE

St Thomas

Service for the 3rd Sunday after Trinity, St Thomas the Apostle, 3rd July 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens.  Today is the Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle. Fr. Leonard will preside and preach; the deacon is Deacon Christine. Please note that the church has a POS facility. Drinking water is always available at the back of the church.

 

Entrance Hymn   237   Morning has broken

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: We run the race set before us, surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Therefore let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which clings so closely, bringing them to Jesus in penitence and faith.  (A short period of stillness and silence)

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

GloriaGlory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Glory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us, have mercy on us, you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive, receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Almighty and eternal God, who, for the firmer foundation of our faith, allowed the holy apostle Thomas to doubt the resurrection of your Son till word and sight convinced him: grant to us, who have not seen, that we also may believe and so confess Christ as our Lord and our God; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

 READ MORE

SS Peter & Paul

Service for the Feast of SS Peter and Paul (Patronal Sunday) – 26th June 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens.  Today we commemorate the apostles, Peter and Paul whose feast falls on June 29th.

Because it is our Patronal Sunday there is a brunch in the garden.

Fr. Leonard will preside and preach; the deacon is Deacon Christine. Please note that the church has a POS facility.

 

Entrance Hymn   216 (tune 433)

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

(A short period of stillness and silence)

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

GloriaGlory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Glory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us, have mercy on us, you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive, receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Almighty God, whose blessed apostles Peter and Paul glorified you in their death as in their life; grant that your Church, inspired by their teaching and example, and made one by your Spirit, may ever stand firm upon the one foundation, Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

 READ MORE

Home Page.1

Report on the 378th meeting of St. Paul’s Church Council held on 5th February, 2022

The Minutes for this meeting  were signed as an accurate record of proceedings by Father Leonard at the 379th meeting held on May 28th

The meeting opened at 2.30 p.m. and closed at 5 p.m. Co-optees for 2022-2023, Melissa Dixon and Oliver Knight, were welcomed and Father Leonard reminded everyone of the confidentiality of all Council proceedings.

Covid regulations: unchanged but Council agreed to the re-introduction of wine to Holy Communion by means of intinction by Father Leonard. Anyone wishing to receive only the Host could continue to do so.

Finances: Treasurer Nelly reported a smaller deficit and noted the receipt of a one-off payment of €4,000 from the Greek State in response to the Covid crisis (1,500 of which had been shared by Crete and Corfu), also two amounts totalling €5,300 from the Diocesan Hardship Fund. Requests for hire of the church were being received. Council agreed that a donation of €2,000 from Holy Trinity, Brussels for the purpose of charitable giving, should be given to the Green Light project, where Salvation Army officers were helping trafficked women to find a safe haven and learn skills enabling them to become independent of their ‘controller’ and find accommodation for them and their children.

Safeguarding: Lynn reminded council that Safeguarding Level 1 was a requirement for all council members plus Level 2 for those in direct contact with children.

READ MORE

Trinity

Service for Trinity Sunday – 12th June 2022 – St Paul’s Athens

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens.  After the Liturgy we all gather in the church garden for coffee. There is a POS so you can donate by card payment.

 

The preacher is Fr. Leonard. The deacon is The Revd. Deacon Christine Saccali.

 

Entrance Hymn    146  Holy! Holy! Holy! Lord God Almighty

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

 

Deacon: Holy, holy, holy. When our eyes have seen the Lord of Hosts, we echo the

words of Isaiah, ‘Woe is me! I am doomed.’ We long for the fire of God’s

cleansing to touch our unclean lips, for our iniquity to be removed and our

sins wiped out. So we meet Father, Son, and Holy Spirit with confession on

our lips.      Silence

 

Deacon: Father, you come to meet us when we return to you:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Deacon: Jesus, you died on the cross for our sins:

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon: Spirit, you give us life and peace:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Glory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us, have mercy on us, you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive, receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father, in the glory of God the Father. Amen

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Almighty and everlasting God, you have given your servants grace, by the confession of a true faith, to acknowledge the glory of the eternal Trinity and in the power of the divine majesty to worship the Unity: keep us steadfast in this faith, that we may evermore be defended from all adversities; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in th euntiy of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

 

First Reading    (please sit)                   Proverbs 8, 1-4, 22-31.     (Shirley Poulakis)

Does not wisdom call, and does not understanding raise her voice? On the heights, beside the way, at the crossroads she takes her stand; beside the gates in front of the town, at the entrance of the portals she cries out: “To you, O people, I call, and my cry is to all that live. The Lord created me at the beginning of his work, the first of his acts of long ago. Ages ago I was set up, at the first, before the beginning of the earth.  When there were no depths I was brought forth, when there were no springs abounding with water. Before the mountains had been shaped, before the hills, I was brought forth—when he had not yet made earth and fields, or the world’s first bits of soil. When he established the heavens, I was there,  when he drew a circle on the face of the deep, when he made firm the skies above, when he established the fountains of the deep, when he assigned to the sea its limit, so that the waters might not transgress his command, when he marked out the foundations of the earth, then I was beside him, like a master worker; and I was daily his delight, rejoicing before him always, rejoicing in his inhabited world and delighting in the human race.

Reader: This is the word of the Lord.

All:         Thanks be to God.

 

Psalm:    539    This is the day of the Lord; we rejoice and are glad

 

Second Reading                                                 Romans 5, 1-5     (Lynne Doolan)

Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God. And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.

Reader: This is the word of the Lord.

All:         Thanks be to God.

 

Gospel Hymn   360  Firmly I believe

Gospel Reading        (turn towards the gospel book)

[Deacon:    I ask your blessing that I may worthily proclaim this holy gospel

All:              May the Lord be on your lips, in your mind and in your heart that you may worthily

                    proclaim to us this holy gospel]

Deacon:     Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, one

God, who was, and is, and is to come, the Almighty.  Alleluia!

All (sung):  Alleluia            

Deacon:     The Lord be with you

All:              and also with you

Deacon:     Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. John  (John 16, 12-15)

All:              Glory to you, O Lord

“I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.

At the end of the Gospel

Deacon:  This is the gospel of the Lord

All:           Praise to you, O Christ.

                 (Sung)  Alleluia

 

Sermon  (Please sit)  Most sermons are available on the website

 

Creed   (Please stand)

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father: through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.  Amen.

 

Intercessions:  (kneel or sit)  Lord in your mercy; hear our prayer

 

Peace:  Peace to you from God our heavenly Father. Peace from his Son Jesus Christ who is our peace. Peace from the Holy Spirit, the life-giver. The peace of the Triune God be always with you.

All:        And also with you.

Offertory Hymn     295   Let all mortal flesh keep silence   (The Collection will be taken)

 

Priest: Be present, be present Lord Jesus Christ, our risen high priest: make yourself known in the breaking of bread.  Amen.

 

The Great Thanksgiving Prayer ( Please remain standing for this)

Priest:  The Lord be with you

All:        and also with you

Priest:  Lift up your hearts

All:       We lift them to the Lord

Priest:  Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

All:        It is right to give thanks and praise

Priest:  continues until   ‘ for ever praising you and singing:’

All:       Holy, holy, holy Lord God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of

             Your glory.Hosanna, hosanna, hosanna in the highest.

             Blessed , blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

             Hosanna , hosanna, hosanna in the highest.

The Great Thanksgiving continues… until

Deacon:  Great is the mystery of faith

All:          Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again.

…for ever and ever. AMEN

 

The Lord’s Prayer:  (to be prayed in your own language)

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Priest: We break this bread to share in the body of the risen Christ.

All:       Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.

 

Sung:   Jesus , Lamb of God, have mercy on us.

Jesus, bearer of our sins, have mercy on us.

Jesus, redeemer of the world, grant us peace.

 

Invitation to Communion

 

Priest:  Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Happy are those

who are called to his supper.

All:       Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word and I shall be healed

 

All baptized Christians may come forward to receive the body and blood of Christ. If you wish you may receive a blessing. Please let the Sides-people guide you forward.  

 

Communion Anthem: by F. Schubert “Holy, holy, holy, Holy is the Lord”

 

Post Communion Prayer:  Let us pray     (please stand)

Almighty and eternal God, you have revealed yourself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and live and reign in the perfect unity of love: hold us firm in this faith, that we may know you in all your ways and evermore rejoice in your eternal glory, who are three persons, yet one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

 

All: You have opened to us the Scriptures, O Christ, and you have made yourself known in the breaking of bread. Abide with us, we pray, that blessed by your royal presence, we may walk with you all the days of our life, and at its end behold you in the glory of the eternal Trinity, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Notices

 

Post Communion Hymn:    377   Immortal, invisible God only wise.

 

Blessing and Dismissal

Priest:     Blessing and honour and thanksgiving and praise more than we can utter, more than we can conceive, be to you, most holy and glorious Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, by all angels, all people, all creatures, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Deacon:  Go in peace to love and serve the Lord

All:           In the name of Christ. Amen.

 

Next Week’s Readings:  Isaiah 65, 1-9; Galatians 3, 23-end; Luke 8, 26-39

Fr. Leonard’s usual Day Off – Monday  (in emergencies contact Deacon Christine)

Home tel :  210 72 14 906;  email anglican@otenet.gr

Deacon Chris: 22950 53164: Day off – Fridays

Swedish Church: contact Fr. Bjorn on  694 607 2428

 

The Anglican Church in Greece (including St. Paul’s) is self financing, and receives no income other than from the generosity of those who worship here. We are a legal body and we pay tax. Our tax number is 997073090. If you wish to donate direct to our bank (IBAN) the account with Piraeus Bank is:  The Anglican Church in Greece, St. Paul’s Athens  GR 820172 0500 0050 5008 6327 479  Swift code is  PIRB GRAA

income other than from the generosity of those who worship here.

 

 

 

Liturgical Material Copyright of the Archbishops’ Council

 

  • The new book – Opening Doors – is a pioneering and unique history of the Anglican tradition and St. Paul’s Church in Athens. The cost is €10,00. You can pay by card – ask for the POS. This book would make an ideal gift for friends or family.
  • Weekly Giving: if you would like to make your weekly giving to the church by our envelope scheme (which we would encourage) please speak to Nelly Paraskevopoulou.
  • Table Top Sales: There is often a Greetings Card stall and a Second Hand Book stall in the garden after the liturgy. Please do look out for them.

 

 

Pentecost

Service for Pentecost Sunday – 5th June 2022

Platinum Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  We have a POS facility so you can make a donation by card. There is coffee in the garden after the Liturgy. The newly published church history and guide book ‘Opening Doors’ will be on sale from this morning – €10,00. You can use the POS to purchase this as well as cash.

 

The presiding priest and preacher this morning is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan. The deacon is the Revd. Christine Saccali. We welcome HE Matthew Lodge, British Ambassador, and Mrs. Alexia Lodge.

 

I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service… But I shall not have strength to carry out this resolution alone unless you join in it with me, as I now invite you to do: I know that your support will be unfailingly given. God help me to make good my vow, and God bless all of you who are willing to share in it.

 

Princess Elizabeth, 21 April 1947

 

When I spoke to you last… I asked you all, whatever your religion, to pray for me on the day of my Coronation – to pray that God would give me wisdom and strength to carry out the promises that I should then be making… I have been uplifted and sustained by the knowledge that your thoughts and prayers were with me.

 

Her Majesty the Queen, Coronation Day, 2 June 1953

 

Entrance Hymn:    364 God is love  (tune Blaenwern 408)

 

 

Priest:  Alleluia! Christ is risen

All:       He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

Priest: The Lord be with you

All:       And also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

 

Most merciful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

we confess that we have sinned in thought, word and deed.

We have not loved you with our whole heart.

We have not loved our neighbours as ourselves.

In your mercy forgive what we have been,

Help us to amend what we are, and direct what we shall be;

That we may do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with you, our God.

Amen.

Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

Jubilee Bazaar

Our Summer Jubilee Bazaar

Come to our Summer Jubilee Bazaar in the grounds of St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens, on Saturday 4th June between 10.00 – 16.00 hrs. Browse our many stalls including Books, Bric-a-Brac, Clothes, Cakes & Jewellery, Nearly New Clothes and lots more.

Enjoy a Cream Tea and wash it all down with a glass of Pimms. Come along, meet friends, have a bite to eat, a drink and a chat!

 

We will be accepting donations of new and nearly new goods during the week before the bazaar and if you have any queries please contact one of the stallholders below:

BOOK STALL oliversamuelknight@outlook.com
CD’s AND DVD’s fpoulakis@hotmail.com
TEA TOWELS/CARDS joline.kourtoulis@gmail.com
JEWELLERY Liza.kaldi@gmail.com
PRESERVES/JAMS janemandalios@gmail.com
CAKES/PIES Rhunt@ccc.net
BRIC A BRAC AND BARGAINS efikatsi@hotmail.com
FOOD/TEAS/COFFEES lynnedoolan@hotmail.co.uk
CLOTHES virginiastevens21@gmail.com
RAFFLE terrykreid@yahoo.com
ST. PAUL’S TABLE melissaanndixon@yahoo.com
BOTTLE STALL lynnstav@gmail.com
BAR trek7@gmail.com
JUBILEE GIFT TABLE

 

EVERYONE WELCOME!

He is risen

Service for the 6th Sunday of Easter – 22 May 2022

Welcome to St Paul’s Athens,   especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Deacon Christine leads our worship today, and is the preacher. Fr. Leonard is on Crete this weekend for the Souda Bay Commemoration and preaching at St. Thomas’s Anglican Church.

We have a POS – you can make your donation to St. Paul’s by card. Please come to coffee in the garden after the Liturgy.

 

Opening Hymn:  427   O praise ye the Lord

 

Minister:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father

and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Minister:  O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Minister: Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

 

The minister then welcomes people informally.

 

Prayers of Penitence

Minister:   As we come to the Lord at the start of this New Year, let us seek his grace to number our days, that we may apply our hearts to wisdom as we confess our sins in penitence and faith.

 

All: Lord God, we have sinned against you;

       we have done evil in your sight.

       We are sorry and repent.

       Have mercy on us according to your love.

       Wash away our wrongdoing and cleanse us from our sin.

       Renew a right spirit within us and restore us to the joy of your salvation;

       through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Minister:  May the Father of all mercies cleanse us from our sins, and restore us

in his image to the praise and glory of his name, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:            Amen

READ MORE

He is risen

Service for the Third Sunday of Easter – 1st May 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  We have a POS facility so you can make a donation by card. There is coffee in the garden after the Liturgy. 

 

The presiding priest and preacher this morning is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan. The deacon is Deacon Christine Saccali

 

Entrance Hymn    121  This joyful Eastertide

 

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

 All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

 

Most merciful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

we confess that we have sinned in thought, word and deed.

We have not loved you with our whole heart.

We have not loved our neighbours as ourselves.

In your mercy forgive what we have been,

Help us to amend what we are, and direct what we shall be;

That we may do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with you, our God.

Amen.

 

Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

 

 

Gloria:  Glory in the highest to the God of heavens:

              Peace to all your people through the earth be given.

              Mighty God and Father, thanks and praise we bring,

              Singing Alleluia! To the heavenly King.

 

              Jesus Christ is risen, God the Father’s Son;

              With the Holy Spirit, you are Lord alone.

              Lamb once killed for sinners, all our guilt to bear,

              Show us now your mercy, now receive our prayer.

 

              Christ the world’s true Saviour, high and holy one,

              Seated now and reigning from your Father’s throne:

              Lord and God, we praise you! Highest heaven adores:

              In the Father’s glory, all the praise be yours!

READ MORE

Easter Season at St Paul’s

 

After no services for two years it was a joy to be able to hold our Easter Services again this Easter, albeit with limited numbers inside.  However we were once again able to make full use of our outside speakers to relay the services to those gathered outside.

Holy Week started with Palm Sunday and the procession outside around the Church, it continued with the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday until the joyous service on Easter Sunday itself when we celebrated Christ’s resurrection.   The church was adorned with beautiful vases of Lilies and a book of remembrance was made and presented to the Church for all to see.  After the service on Easter Sunday an Easter Breakfast was held with delicious food donated by the Congregation making a welcome return to celebrate with one another.

Our thanks go to Fr Leonard and all the team who worked so hard to make our Easter so wonderful.

 

 

 

 

He is risen

Service for the Second Sunday of Easter – 24th April 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  We have a POS facility so you can make a donation by card. There is coffee in the garden after the Liturgy. 

 

The presiding priest and preacher this morning is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan.

Entrance Hymn    375  I danced in the morning

 

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

 All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then leads us into Confession.

Silence

Assistant: Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life.

Kyrie eleison

All:            Kyrie eleison

Assistant: Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins.

Christe eleison

All:            Christe eleison

Assistant: Lord Jesus, you feed us with the living bread.

Kyrie eleison

All:            Kyrie eleison

Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

He is risen

Service for Easter Sunday – 17th April 2022

The Anglican Church in Greece

Happy Easter! Welcome to our Easter Sunday worship. After the Liturgy there is an Easter breakfast in the church garden. Please remember about social distancing and be sensitive to people’s concerns about proximity/mask wearing.

Hymn    112   Jesus Lives!

 

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins.

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon:  Lord Jesus, you feed us with the living bread.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory in the highest to the God of heavens:

              Peace to all your people through the earth be given.

              Mighty God and Father, thanks and praise we bring,

              Singing Alleluia! To the heavenly King.

 

              Jesus Christ is risen, God the Father’s Son;

              With the Holy Spirit, you are Lord alone.

              Lamb once killed for sinners, all our guilt to bear,

              Show us now your mercy, now receive our prayer.

 

              Christ the world’s true Saviour, high and holy one,

              Seated now and reigning from your Father’s throne:

              Lord and God, we praise you! Highest heaven adores:

              In the Father’s glory, all the praise be yours!

 READ MORE

Palm Sunday

Service for Palm Sunday – 10th April 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Great (Holy) Week begins today in the ‘Latin Calendar’. We will begin outside with the blessing of palm crosses and process into church.  Do stay for coffee in the church garden after the Liturgy.

 The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard, Senior Chaplain. The deacon is The Revd. Deacon Christine Saccali.

Liturgy of Palms (in the Garden)

All:  Hosanna to the Son of David, the King of Israel. Blessed is he who comes in the name of      the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Priest:  Behold your king comes to you, O Zion, meek and lowly, sitting upon an ass. Ride on in the cause of truth and for the sake of justice. Your throne is the throne of God, it endures for ever; and the sceptre of your kingdom is a righteous sceptre. You have loved righteousness and hated evil. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness above your fellows.

All:   Hosanna to the Son of David, the King of Israel. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

Priest: Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, during Lent we have been preparing by works of love and self-sacrifice for the celebration of our Lord’s death and resurrection. Today we come together to begin this solemn celebration in union with the Church throughout the world. Christ enters his own city to complete his work as our Saviour, to suffer, to die, and to rise again. Let us go with him in faith and love, so that, united with him in his sufferings, we may share his risen life.

The people hold up palms or branches while this prayer is said by the priest

 God our Saviour, whose Son Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem as Messiah to suffer and to die; let these palms +  be for us signs of his victory and grant that we who bear them in his name may ever hail him as our King, and follow him in the way that leads to eternal life; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

 

We now process around the church, and as we do so we sing:

 We have a King who rides a donkey, we have a King who rides a donkey

We have a King who rides a donkey, and his name is Jesus.

Jesus the King is with us, Jesus us the King is with us, Jesus the King is with us

Riding on a donkey.

 Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

READ MORE

Lent 1 Blog

Service for the 5th Sunday in Lent – Passion Sunday – 3rd April 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. There is coffee in the garden after the liturgy. This will be followed by the Annual Meeting. Printed reports are available to read during coffee.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard. The deacon is Deacon Christine.

 

At the door (please turn)

[Priest:    Give us true repentance; forgive us our sins of negligence and ignorance and our

deliberate sins: and grant  us the grace of your Holy Spirit to amend our lives

according to your holy word.

All:           Holy God, holy and strong, holy and immortal, have mercy upon us.]

 

Entrance Hymn    86 (omit *verses) My Song is love unknown

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:        and also with you

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then the deacon leads us into Confession.

 

Silence and stillness follows

Deacon: We confess to you our selfishness and lack of love: fill us with your Spirit.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon:  We confess to you our fear and failure in sharing our faith: fill us with your Spirit.

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon: We confess to you our stubbornness and lack of trust: fill us with your Spirit.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution:  Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you your sins, and bring to everlasting life.  Amen.

READ MORE

Flowers for Mothering Sunday

These colourful posies for Mothering Sunday, following our Anglican tradition, were made up by Shirley Poulakis, and were greatly appreciated by the ladies in the congregation after two years of lockdown.

 

Madonna 7 Child Blog

Service Sheet for the 4th Sunday in Lent, 27th March 2022

MOTHERING SUNDAY

Welcome to St. Paul’s. If you are visiting, or here

for the first time please do stay behind for coffee

in the church garden after the Liturgy. Today we celebrate Mothering Sunday.

 

Presiding Priest: Fr. Leonard Doolan     Preacher: Fr. Leonard

Deacon: Revd Deacon Christine

 

Entrance Hymn   395  Let bells peal forth
Priest:        In the name of the Father, and of the Son,

and of the Holy Spirit.

All:            Amen.                                                                                       

 

Priest:        The Lord be with you

All:            And also with you

 

 

Welcome

Words by Jonny Baker, taken from the book: ‘The Hospitality of God’ by Michael Perham

 

Deacon:     All are invited, all are included

All are made welcome, none are excluded

This is the table of Christ

Come if you’re young, come if you’re old

Come if you’re broken, come if you’re whole

Come if you’re weary of the trials of life

This is the table of Christ.

 

Introduction

The priest welcomes everyone and introduces the service – all are invited to receive Holy Communion.

 

Confession

There will be a short moment of silence as we bring to mind our wrongdoings

 Deacon:     Lord, you are gracious and compassionate:

Lord, have mercy.

All:            Lord, have mercy.

Deacon:     You are loving to all and your mercy is over all your creation:

Christ, have mercy.

All:            Christ, have mercy.

Deacon:     Your faithful servants bless your name and speak of your glory:

Lord, have mercy.

All:            Lord, have mercy.

 

Absolution  (as we hear the words of God’s forgiveness)

 

Collect

The Priest then prays the collect for the day

God of love, passionate and strong, tender and full of care; watch over us and hold us all the days of our life; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

Lilies

EASTER LILIES (In Memorium)

This lovely St. Paul’s tradition continues. The names of your loved ones can be included in our Easter Book of Remembrance – just email them to Nelly at nelly.parask@gmail.com and your lily will be added to the beautiful floral displays in church. The final date for submission is April 13th.

If you would like to make a donation in their memory you can do so through e-banking or Paypal when you visit our website: www.anglicanchurchathens.gr – just click on Support St. Paul’s – Donations  for details, giving your name and ‘Easter Lilies’ or you can see Nelly in church.  

God's family

Service Sheet for the Third Sunday in Lent – 20th March 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please stay and have coffee after the liturgy.  We have a POS facility now, so payments can be made to the church by bank cards.

 

The presiding priest is Fr. Bjorn Kling of the Swedish Church. The deacon and preacher is Deacon Christine Saccali.

 

Entry Greeting  

[Minister: Give us true repentance; forgive us our sins of negligence and ignorance and our

deliberate sins: and grant  us the grace of your Holy Spirit to amend our lives

according to your holy word.

All:             Holy God, holy and strong, holy and immortal, have mercy upon us.]

 

Entrance Hymn    465   Thou didst leave thy throne

 

Priest:     In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:         and also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the assistant leads us into Confession.

 

Silence and stillness follows for a few moments

Deacon:    We confess to you our selfishness and lack of love: fill us with your Spirit.

Kyrie eleison

All:             Kyrie eleison

Deacon:    We confess to you our fear and failure in sharing our faith: fill us with your Spirit.

Christe eleison

All:             Christe eleison

Deacon:    We confess to you our stubbornness and lack of trust: fill us with your Spirit.

Kyrie eleison

All:             Kyrie eleison

Priest:       May Almighty God, who sent his Son into the world to save sinners, bring you

his pardon and peace.

All:             Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day)   

Eternal God, give us insight to discern your will for us, to give up what harms us, and to seek the perfection we are promised in Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

God's family

Service for the second Sunday in Lent, 13th March 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please stay and have coffee after the liturgy.  We have a POS facility now, so payments can be made to the church by bank cards.

 The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard. The Assistant is Nelly Paraskevopoulou. Choral Evensong is at 20.00hrs.

 

Entry Greeting  

Minister: Give us true repentance; forgive us our sins of negligence and ignorance and our deliberate sins: and grant  us the grace of your Holy Spirit to amend our lives

according to your holy word.

All:             Holy God, holy and strong, holy and immortal, have mercy upon us.]

 

Entrance Hymn    381  Jerusalem the golden

 

Priest:     In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:         and also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the assistant leads us into Confession.

 

Silence and stillness follows for a few moments

Assistant: We confess to you our selfishness and lack of love: fill us with your Spirit.

Kyrie eleison

All:             Kyrie eleison

Assistant: We confess to you our fear and failure in sharing our faith: fill us with your Spirit.

Christe eleison

All:            Christe eleison

Assistant:  We confess to you our stubbornness and lack of trust: fill us with your Spirit.

Kyrie eleison

All:             Kyrie eleison

Priest:       May Almighty God, who sent his Son into the world to save sinners, bring you

his pardon and peace.

All:             Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day)   

Almighty God, by the prayer and discipline of Lent may we enter into the mystery of Christ’s sufferings, and by following his Way may we come to share in his glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

12308003_171512473200609_7163125448344572824_o

Electoral Roll Application

If you would like to become an official member of the St Paul’s congregation, do sign up on the electoral roll.  This gives you the right to vote in the Annual General Meeting, and to stand for offices such as Council member or Churchwarden.  Please download and complete the attached application form, which should be emailed to the Electoral Roll officer, Jane Mandalios at janemandalios@gmail.com.  

Electoral Roll Form 2022

 

 

 

Lent 1 Blog

Service for the First Sunday in Lent – 6th March 2022

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Please stay and have coffee after the liturgy.  We have a POS facility now, so payments can be made to the church by bank cards.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard (Chaplain). The deacon is The Revd. Deacon Christine Saccali.

 

Entry Greeting

 

[Minister: Give us true repentance; forgive us our sins of negligence and ignorance and our

deliberate sins: and grant  us the grace of your Holy Spirit to amend our lives

according to your holy word.

All:             Holy God, holy and strong, holy and immortal, have mercy upon us.

 

Entrance Hymn    333   All my hope on God is founded

 

Priest:     In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:         and also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

 

Silence and stillness follows for a few moments

Deacon: We confess to you our selfishness and lack of love: fill us with your Spirit.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon:  We confess to you our fear and failure in sharing our faith: fill us with your Spirit.

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon:  We confess to you our stubbornness and lack of trust: fill us with your Spirit.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Priest:    May Almighty God, who sent his Son into the world to save sinners, bring you his pardon and peace.

All:          Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day)   

Heavenly Father, your Son battled with the powers of darkness, and grew closer to you in the desert: help us to use these forty days of Lent to grow in wisdom and prayer that we may witness to your saving love in Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

2nd before lent portrait

Service for the Sunday Next Before Lent – 27th February 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. We have a POS facility now, so payments can be made to the church by bank cards.

 The presiding priest and preacher is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan; the deacon is Chris Saccali.

 

Entrance Hymn     420  O Jesus I have promised

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: God be gracious to us and bless us, and make his face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: May your ways be known on earth, your saving power among the nations:

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon: Lord, you have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the

nations:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution we hear the words of God’s forgiveness to those who are truly penitent

READ MORE

2nd before lent portrait

Service for the 2nd Sunday before Lent – 20th February 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. We have a POS facility now, so payments can be made to the church by bank cards.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan; the deacon and preacher is Chris Saccali.

 

Entrance Hymn   205  Christ is made the sure foundation

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: God be gracious to us and bless us, and make his face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: May your ways be known on earth, your saving power among the nations:

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon: Lord, you have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the nations:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution we hear the words of God’s forgiveness to those who are truly penitent

READ MORE

3rd before lent Blog

Service for the 3rd Sunday before Lent – 13th February 2022

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. We have a POS facility now, so payments can be made to the church by bank cards.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan; Nelly Paraskevopoulou is the assistant.

 

Entrance Hymn    473  When morning gilds the skies (2nd tune and omit*verses)

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Nelly:      God be gracious to us and bless us, and make his face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Nelly:     May your ways be known on earth, your saving power among the nations:

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Nelly:     Lord, you have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the nations:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution we hear the words of God’s forgiveness to those who are truly penitentREAD MORE

Epiphany 4

Service for the 4th Sunday before Lent – 6th February 2022

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. We have a POS facility now, so payments can be made to the church by bank cards.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan; the deacon is the Revd. Christine Saccali.

 

Entrance Hymn    343  Bright the vision    (this hymn is based on Isaiah 6, the OT reading)

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: God be gracious to us and bless us, and make his face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: May your ways be known on earth, your saving power among the nations:

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon: Lord, you have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the nations:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

READ MORE

Epiphany 4

Service for the 4th Sunday of Epiphany – 30th January 2022

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. We have a POS facility now, so payments can be made to the church by bank cards.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan; the deacon is the Revd. Christine Saccali. The preacher this morning is Angelos Palioudakis.

 

Entrance Hymn    388 (1st tune)  Jesus shall reign

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: God be gracious to us and bless us, and make his face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: May your ways be known on earth, your saving power among the nations:

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon: Lord, you have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the nations:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 Absolution we hear the words of God’s forgiveness to those who are truly penitent

READ MORE

Scrolls

Service for the 3rd Sunday of Epiphany – 23rd January 2022

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. We have a POS facility now, so payments can be made to the church by bank cards.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan; the deacon is the Revd. Christine Saccali.

 

Entrance Hymn   391  Let bells peal forth

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: God be gracious to us and bless us, and make his face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: May your ways be known on earth, your saving power among the nations:

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon: Lord, you have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the nations:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison 

Absolution we hear the words of God’s forgiveness to those who are truly penitent

READ MORE

Water to Wine

Service for the 2nd Sunday of Epiphany – 16th January 2022

St Paul’s. Athens

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  God’s blessings for you in 2022.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan; the deacon is the Revd. Christine Saccali.

 

Minister:  We will go unto the altar of God

All:            Even unto the God of our Joy and gladness

Minister:  Our help is in the name of the Lord

All:            Who has made heaven and earth.

Minister:  O Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness

All:            Let the whole earth stand in awe of him]

 

Entrance Hymn    148 (omit all * verses)   The God of Abraham praise

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and then the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: God be gracious to us and bless us, and make his face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: May your ways be known on earth, your saving power among the nations:

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon: Lord, you have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the nations:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution we hear the words of God’s forgiveness to those who are truly penitent

READ MORE

Baptism of Christ Blog

Service for the Baptism of Christ 1st Sunday after Epiphany – 9th January 2022

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Please stay and have coffee after the liturgy. Masks are required at all times – and social distancing.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard, assisted by Nelly Paraskevopoulou.

 

[Minister:  We will go unto the altar of God

All:            Even unto the God of our Joy and gladness

Minister:  Our help is in the name of the Lord

All:            Who has made heaven and earth.

Minister:  O Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness

All:            Let the whole earth stand in awe of him]

 

Entrance Hymn    55  Hail to the Lord’s Anointed

 

Priest:     In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:          And also with you

Priest:     The Lord be with you

 All:          and also with you

The priest then welcomes the people of God.

 

Silence   (Then a Minister leads us in the words of the Confession)

 

All:   Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light.  Amen.

 

Absolution: May almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you your sins, and bring you to everlasting life.

All:   Amen.

 

Gloria:   Glory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth.

               Glory to God in the highest, peace to his people on earth.

  1. Lord God heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.
  2. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God,

you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us, have mercy on us,

You are seated at the right hand of the Father, receive, receive our prayers.

  1. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen

 READ MORE

two icons for Ministerial team

Living in Love & Faith

The Anglican Church in Greece
including

Holy Trinity Corfu

St Paul’s Athens

& St Thomas’ Crete

All around us we see changing understandings of human identity, changing patterns in relationships and families, changing sexual attitudes and activity. What does it mean for us as followers of Jesus to walk in love, faith and holiness today?

Living in Love and Faith (“LLF”) is a five-session course which provides a structured and accessible way for local groups to learn about and reflect on these questions of identity, sexuality, relationships and marriage. Through the use of videos and the study of scripture it enables Christians (especially Anglicans) to discuss the diversity of opinion on these matters. LLF was commissioned and commended for study by the House of Bishops of the Church of England. Bishop Robert Innes and Bishop David Hamid in the Diocese in Europe have asked every chaplaincy to provide opportunities for our members to participate in LLF. To that end the congregations in the Anglican Church in Greece are working together to do this online via Zoom. People outside of Greece are also welcome to participate.

Bruce Bryant-Scott, the priest in Crete, has agreed to facilitate the five sessions. We will meet Wednesdays at 7:30 – 9:00 PM EET (6:30 -8:00 PM CET).

The Zoom link is https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86791205487

The meeting ID is 867 9120 5487.

The dates will be:

Wednesday, January 12
Wednesday January 19
Wednesday January 26

Wednesday February 2
Wednesday, February 9

Nativity Carol Service

Service for the 2nd Sunday of Christmas – 2nd January 2022

St Paul’s Athens

Welcome to St Paul’s Athens,   especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Happy New Year! Deacon Christine leads our worship today, and is the preacher. Please remember that masks are mandatory in church and when you are in groups in the garden. We are required to be 1.5m apart for worship.

 

Opening Hymn:  36 The first Nowell

 

Minister:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father

and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Minister:  O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Minister: Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

 

The minister then welcomes people informally.

 

Prayers of Penitence

Minister:   As we come to the Lord at the start of this New Year, let us seek his grace to number our days, that we may apply our hearts to wisdom as we confess our sins in penitence and faith.

 

All: Lord God, we have sinned against you;

       we have done evil in your sight.

       We are sorry and repent.

       Have mercy on us according to your love.

       Wash away our wrongdoing and cleanse us from our sin.

       Renew a right spirit within us and restore us to the joy of your salvation;

       through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Minister:  May the Father of all mercies cleanse us from our sins, and restore us

in his image to the praise and glory of his name, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:            Amen

READ MORE

Nativity Carol Service

Service for December 26th St. Stephen, Deacon, First Martyr

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens for Christmas. Happy Christmas! The presiding priest is Fr. Leonard and Deacon Christine is the preacher.

 

Entrance Hymn  

Good King Wenceslas looked out
On the Feast of Stephen
When the snow lay round about
Deep and crisp and even
Brightly shone the moon that night
Though the frost was cruel
When a poor man came in sight
Gathering winter fuel

 

Hither, page, and stand by me,
If thou knowst it, telling
Yonder peasant, who is he?
Where and what his dwelling?
Sire, he lives a good league hence,
Underneath the mountain
Right against the forest fence
By Saint Agnes fountain.

 

Bring me flesh and bring me wine
Bring me pine logs hither
Thou and I shall see him dine
When we bear them thither.
Page and monarch, forth they went
Forth they went together
Through the rude winds wild lament
And the bitter weather

 

Sire, the night is darker now
And the wind blows stronger
Fails my heart, I know not how
I can go no longer.
Mark my footsteps, good my page
Tread thou in them boldly
Thou shall find the winters rage
Freeze thy blood less coldly.

 

In his masters step he trod
Where the snow lay dinted
Heat was in the very sod
Which the Saint had printed
Therefore, Christian men, be sure
Wealth or rank possessing
Ye, who now will bless the poor
Shall yourselves find blessing.

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

All:       and also with you

Priest:  Hark! the herald angels sing

All:       Glory to the newborn King.

 Priest:   St. Stephen and the martyr saints were faithful unto death and now dwell in the heavenly kingdom for ever. As we celebrate their joy, let us bring to the Lord our sins and weaknesses, and ask for his mercy.

READ MORE

Nativity Carol Service

Liturgy for the Nativity of Christ – 25th December 2021 – St Paul’s Athens

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens for Christmas. Happy Christmas! The presiding priest and the preacher is Fr. Leonard, assisted by Angelos Palioudakis and Nelly Paraskevopoulou.

 

Entrance Hymn    36   The first Nowell

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 Priest:   Christ the light of the world has come to dispel the darkness of our hearts. Let us turn to the light and confess our sins.                     A period of silent stillness follows

 

Minister: God our Father, you sent your Son, full of grace and truth: forgive our failure to

receive him.  Kyrie eleison.

All:           Kyrie eleison.

Minister: Jesus our Saviour, you were born in poverty and laid in a manger: forgive our

greed and rejection of your ways.  Christe eleison.

All:           Christe eleison

Minister: Spirit of love, your servant Mary responded joyfully to your call: forgive our

hardness of heart.  Kyrie eleison.

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution we hear the words of God’s forgiveness to those who are truly penitent

READ MORE

Advent Candle 1

Service for the 4th Sunday of Advent – 19th December 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens. Please join us after the Liturgy for refreshments in the garden. The notices are at the end. The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard. The deacon is The Revd. Deacon Christine Saccali. Please observe the Covid restrictions.

 

Entrance  (all are invited to stand)

 

Minister: Lift up your heads, O gates: be lifted up you everlasting doors; and the King of

                  glory shall come in.

All:            Who is the King of Glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord who is mighty

                  in battle.

Minister: Lift up your heads, O gates: be lifted up you everlasting doors; and the King of

                  glory shall come in.

All:            Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory.

 

Entrance Hymn  185 Sing we of the Blessed Mother

 

Priest:  Blessed be the kingdom of God

All:       Now and for ever.

Priest: The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 

Lighting of the Advent Candle

Priest: People of God, awake! The day is coming soon when you shall see God face to face. Remember the ways and works of God. God calls you out of darkness to walk in the light of his coming. You are God’s children.

All:      Lord Jesus, light of the world, blessed is Gabriel, who brought good news; blessed is Mary, your mother and ours. Bless your Church preparing for Christmas; and bless your children, who long for your coming. Amen

READ MORE

Advent Candle 1

Service for the 3rd Sunday in Advent – 12th December 2021

Welcome to St Paul’s Athens,   especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Deacon Christine leads our worship today, and is the preacher.  Fr. Leonard is in Thessaloniki today. Please remember that masks are mandatory in church and when you are in groups in the garden. We are required to be 1.5m apart for worship.

 

Opening Hymn:

How lovely on the mountains are the feet of Him
Who brings good news, good news
Proclaiming peace, announcing news of happiness
Our God reigns, our God reigns

Chorus:
Our God reigns, our God reigns
Our God reigns, our God reigns

 

You watchmen lift your voices joyfully as one
Shout for your King, your King,
See face to face the Lord restoring Zion
Your God reigns, your God reigns!

Waste places of Jerusalem break forth with joy
We are redeemed, redeemed
The Lord has saved and comforted His people
Our God reigns, our God reigns!

Ends of the earth, see the salvation of your God
Jesus is Lord, is Lord.
Before the nations He has bared His holy arm
Our God reigns, our God reigns!

 

Lighting of the 3rd Advent Candle

Minister: People of God, return! You are called to be God’s own. From the mountains announce good news. God comes in justice and peace, to all who follow in his ways. You are God’s Children.

All: Lord make us one in the peace of Christ today and forever. Amen.

 Minister:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father

and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Minister:  O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Minister: Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

 

The minister then welcomes people informally.

READ MORE

Nativity Carol Service

Zoom Carol Service for the Eve of the Nativity of Christ 2021

YouTube link to the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols held at St Paul’s on 19th December 2021 with the help of the Athens Singers

 

(Zoom 18.00 – try to join around 17.45hrs)

 

At 17.50  Christina Antoniadou will play some Christmas music before we worship.

 

Welcome           Father Leonard

Introduction     Deacon Christine

Lord’s Prayer:   Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;

                             Thy kingdom come, thy will be done; in earth as it is in heaven.

                             Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our

                             trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.

                             And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil;

                             For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory,

                             For ever and ever.  Amen.

 

Carol 

1 It came upon the midnight clear,
that glorious song of old,
from angels bending near the earth
to touch their harps of gold:
“Peace on the earth, good will to men,
from heaven’s all-gracious King.”
The world in solemn stillness lay,
to hear the angels sing. 

2 Still through the cloven skies they come
with peaceful wings unfurled,
and still their heavenly music floats
o’er all the weary world;
above its sad and lowly plains,
they bend on hovering wing,
and ever o’er its Babel sounds
the blessed angels sing. 

3 And ye, beneath life’s crushing load,
whose forms are bending low,
who toil along the climbing way
with painful steps and slow,
look now! for glad and golden hours
come swiftly on the wing.
O rest beside the weary road,
and hear the angels sing! 

4 For lo! the days are hastening on,
by prophet seen of old,
when with the ever-circling years
shall come the time foretold
when peace shall over all the earth
its ancient splendors fling,
and the whole world send back the song
which now the angels sing.

READ MORE

Bible Study Blog

Bible Study 2 for Advent Season

The Living Stone and a Chosen People

Rid yourselves, therefore, of all malice, and all guile, insincerity, envy, and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

Come to him, a living stone, though rejected by mortals yet chosen and precious in God’s sight, and like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For it stands in scripture:

“See, I am laying in Zion a stone,
a cornerstone chosen and precious;
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”

To you then who believe, he is precious; but for those who do not believe,

“The stone that the builders rejected
has become the very head of the corner,”

and

“A stone that makes them stumble,
and a rock that makes them fall.”

They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

10 Once you were not a people,
but now you are God’s people;
once you had not received mercy,
but now you have received mercy.

Live as Servants of God

11 Beloved, I urge you as aliens and exiles to abstain from the desires of the flesh that wage war against the soul. 12 Conduct yourselves honorably among the Gentiles, so that, though they malign you as evildoers, they may see your honorable deeds and glorify God when he comes to judge.

13 For the Lord’s sake accept the authority of every human institution, whether of the emperor as supreme, 14 or of governors, as sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right. 15 For it is God’s will that by doing right you should silence the ignorance of the foolish. 16 As servants of God, live as free people, yet do not use your freedom as a pretext for evil. 17 Honor everyone. Love the family of believers. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

The Example of Christ’s Suffering

18 Slaves, accept the authority of your masters with all deference, not only those who are kind and gentle but also those who are harsh. 19 For it is a credit to you if, being aware of God, you endure pain while suffering unjustly. 20 If you endure when you are beaten for doing wrong, what credit is that? But if you endure when you do right and suffer for it, you have God’s approval. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you should follow in his steps.

22 “He committed no sin,
and no deceit was found in his mouth.”

23 When he was abused, he did not return abuse; when he suffered, he did not threaten; but he entrusted himself to the one who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that, free from sins, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. 25 For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.

 

Advent Candle 1

Service for the 2nd Sunday of Advent – 5th December 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to all. Our Liturgy is shorter in length and time because today is also our CHRISTMAS BAZAAR.  In church please note the distancing rules (1.5m), and the wearing of masks is mandatory in church and around the garden. The presiding priest and preacher is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan, Senior Chaplain in Greece.

 

Entrance Hymn: 3  Come thou long expected Jesus

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 

[Lighting of the 2nd Advent Candle

Priest: People of God, be glad! Your God delights in you, giving you joy for sadness and turning the dark to light. Be strong in hope therefore; for your God comes to save. You are God’s children.

All:      Lord, make us one in the love of Christ today and forever. Amen]

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon then leads us into Confession.

 

Priest: When the Lord comes, he will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Therefore in the light of Christ let us confess our sins.

 

A period of silent stillness follows

READ MORE

Advent Candle 1

Night Prayer (Compline) for the Advent Season

The Lord almighty grant us a quiet night and a perfect end.  All  Amen.

Our help is in the name of the Lord

All  who made heaven and earth.

A period of silence for reflection on the past day may follow.

All  Most merciful God, we confess to you, before the whole company of heaven and one

      another, that we have sinned in thought, word and deed and in what we have failed

      to do. Forgive us our sins, heal us by your Spirit and raise us to new life in Christ. Amen.

 

O God, make speed to save us.

All  O Lord, make haste to help us.

All  Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning is now and shall be for ever. Amen.

 

The following or another suitable hymn may be sung

  1. Before the ending of the day, Creator of the world, we pray

That you, with steadfast love, would keep Your watch around us while we sleep.

  1. From evil dreams defend our sight, From fears and terrors of the night;

Tread underfoot our deadly foe That we no sinful thought may know.

  1. O Father, that we ask be done Through Jesus Christ, your only Son;

And Holy Spirit, by whose breath, Our souls are raised to life from death.

 

A psalm is now said

At the end of the psalmody, the following is said or sung

All  Glory to the Father and to the Son

and to the Holy Spirit;

as it was in the beginning is now

and shall be for ever. Amen.

 READ MORE

Advent Candle 1

Zoom Service Night Prayer in the Advent Season

Leonard Doolan is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

The order of service is available on the website  for you to download. Please do pass on the information about Night Prayer to others and forward the Zoom link.

Topic: Advent Night Prayer

Time: Dec 1, 2021 09:00 PM Athens

        Every day, until Dec 22, 2021, 22 occurrence(s)

        Dec 1, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 2, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 3, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 4, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 5, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 6, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 7, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 8, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 9, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 10, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 11, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 12, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 13, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 14, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 15, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 16, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 17, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 18, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 19, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 20, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 21, 2021 09:00 PM

        Dec 22, 2021 09:00 PM

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.

Daily: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZwkd–srTgiGNf6XwkXpDlqW7SYfNeDMg1e/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGgpzssHteWuBuERpw-HYigM-jztnZHjY1byifyCBhDRg_nAbVxC7RRFfz9

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88906433823?pwd=S2Q5QjZCa0xWUnlWT1VWOEt4U1N0UT09

Meeting ID: 889 0643 3823

Passcode: Uygg2w

Advent Candle 1

Service for Advent Sunday – 28th November 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to all as we begin to worship in this holy season of Advent. Note the distancing rules (1.5m), and the wearing of masks is mandatory in church and around the garden, unless you are drinking your coffee. The presiding priest and preacher is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan, Senior Chaplain in Greece, and Deacon Christine is assisting.

 

Entrance Hymn: 11   O come, O come Emmanuel

 

Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

[Lighting of the Advent Candle

Priest: People of God, awake! The day is coming soon when you shall see God face to face. Remember the ways and works of God. God calls you out of darkness to walk in the light of his coming. You are God’s children.

All:      Lord, make us one as we walk with Christ today and forever. Amen]

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon then leads us into Confession.

Priest: When the Lord comes, he will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Therefore in the light of Christ let us confess our sins.

 

A period of silent stillness follows

READ MORE

Picture Trinity 17

Service for the feast of Christ the King – Sunday 21st November 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Please observe the 1.5m distancing regulation at all times and masks must be worn. Coffee is served after the Liturgy in the garden.  

 

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard. The deacon is The Revd. Deacon Christine Saccali.

 

Entrance Hymn   352 Crown him with many crowns

 

Priest:  Blessed be the kingdom of God

All:       Now and for ever.

Priest:  The Lord be with you.

 All:      and also with you

 The priest welcomes the people of God and the deacon then leads us into Confession.

Deacon: Lord, you are gracious and compassionate:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: You are loving to all and your mercy is over all your creation:

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon: Your faithful servants bless your name and speak of the glory of your kingdom:

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution we hear the words of God’s forgiveness to those who are truly penitent

 

Gloria: Glory in the highest to the God of heaven;

Peace to all your people through the earth be given.

Mighty God and Father, thanks and praise we bring,

Singing Alleluia to our heavenly King.

 

Jesus Christ is risen, God the Father’s Son;

With the Holy Spirit, you are the Lord alone.

Lamb once killed for sinners, all our guilt to bear,

Show us now your mercy, now receive our prayer

 

Christ the world’s true Saviour, high and holy one,

Seated now and reigning from your Father’s throne

Lord and God, we praise you! Highest heaven adores

In the Father’s glory, all the praise be yours!

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day)   

Eternal Father, whose Son Jesus Christ ascended to the throne of heaven that he might rule over all things as Lord and King; keep the church in the unity of the Spirit and in the bond of peace, and bring the whole created order to worship at his feet; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

READ MORE

Poppy Blog

A service for Remembrance Sunday – 14th November 2021 – St Paul’s Athens and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery, Alimos

Welcome to our worship on this Remembrance Sunday. A particular welcome to His Excellency Matthew Lodge, British Ambassador, and Captain Alex Bush, Defence Attache. This Worship is led by The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan, Senior Chaplain, who is also the preacher. There is a Noon ceremony at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery at Alimos.

 

Priest:      Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Priest:      O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Priest:      Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

 

Hymn:    

1 God is our strength and refuge,
our present help in trouble,

and we therefore will not fear,
though the earth should change!
Though mountains shake and tremble,
though swirling floods are raging,

God the Lord of hosts is with us evermore!

 

2 There is a flowing river
within God’s holy city;
God is in the midst of her-
she shall not be moved!
God’s help is swiftly given,
thrones vanish at his presence-
God the Lord of hosts is with us evermore!

3 Come, see the works of our maker,
learn of his deeds all-powerful:
wars will cease across the world
when he shatters the spear!
Be still and know your creator,
uplift him in the nations-
God the Lord of hosts is with us evermore!                       After Psalm 46, Richard Bewes (born 1934)

© Richard Bewes/Jubilate Hymns
READ MORE

Bazar poster Blog English

The Great St Paul’s Christmas Bazaar is back!

After a Hiatus of two years St Paul’s famous Christmas Bazaar is back at a new venue.  On 5th December 2021 in the Amphitheatre foyer of the Athens War Museum from 11.00 hrs – 16.30 hrs with many of our usual stalls available to purchase your Christmas Gifts:  Christmas cakes,  Mince pies,  Christmas crackers, Handmade gifts, Books, Jewellery, Clothing, Preserves, DVD`s and lots lots more!

Maybe relax for awhile and enjoy a lovely Irish coffee, a glass of wine, a cup of tea or coffee and something to eat from our cake/sandwich stall.

Don`t forget to try your luck at our Christmas raffle.
Bring the kiddies along to see Father Christmas.
Spread the word, bring family and friends!

Hoping to see you there for a wonderful day out after so long.

PLEASE NOTE COVID UPDATE:   Proof of Vaccination (Certificate) must be shown to gain entry to the museum.

 

Call out for help!
Preparations for the Christmas Bazaar have started and we appeal to anyone who has in the past, or who would like to contribute for the first time, to donate food for the Food Stall. If you can help in any way, we would love to hear from you.
We cannot serve hot food at the venue, so we need sandwiches, pastry goods, cakes, tarts, puddings etc. They must be individually wrapped and clearly marked with ingredients. We don’t want to sell cheese pies, if they are apple!
Email lynnedoolan@hotmail.co.uk or anglican@otenet.gr
Thank you so much.
Trinity 10

Service for the Third Sunday before Advent – 7th November 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Fr. Leonard will preside and preach. The deacon is Deacon Christine.

Please ensure that you are 1.5metres distant unless you are from the same household. Masks and hand cleansing are mandatory in church and as you move around in the garden.

 

Opening Hymn: 463  (2nd tune)  Thine for ever!

 

Priest:                In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:                     Amen.

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

The presiding priest welcomes the congregation and invites the deacon to lead us into a short time of silence and stillness

 

Deacon:          Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison             

     All:                 Kyrie eleison

     Deacon:          You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                              Christe eleison         

     All:                 Christe eleison

Deacon:          You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                              Kyrie eleison             

     All:                 Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Gloria: (Sung) Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, You take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen, Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray     (Collect of the Day) 

God, our refuge and strength, bring near the day when wars shall cease and poverty and pain shall end, that earth may know the peace of heaven through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:  Amen.

READ MORE

KARTA MEGALI

HELP US FILL THE CHRISTMAS SKY WITH STARS!

The star of Bethlehem guided the Magi to a humble stable and now you can have your very own star to shine on the manger where baby Jesus lies. Every donation will add a star to our Nativity Scene, to symbolize the eternal light of Christmas and celebrate the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Watch the sky fill with stars on our Facebook Page  and on our website.

 

Donations can be made in several ways:
Bank Transfer – THE ANGLICAN CHURCH IN GREECE, ST PAUL’S, ATHENS
BANK: Bank of Piraeus
IBAN: GR82 0172 0500 0050 5008 6327 479
SWIFT CODE: PIRB GRAA
(Reference “STAR”)
(including fee except for inter-Piraeus Bank)
(reference “STAR”)
Please make sure you include your name, email address and should you wish your donation to remain anonymous please add the word “ANON” next to the reference

Your star will help support the church and those in need in these difficult times. Join us in love and thanksgiving as we prepare to welcome the Christ Child into the world.

Harvest_festival_1_1100

ST. PAUL’S HARVEST FESTIVAL AT THE KOKOTOS VINEYARD IN STAMATA

 

On a sunny Sunday, the 24th of October, the congregation and friends of St. Paul’s met at the beautiful vineyard of the Kokotos family located outside the village of Stamata north of Athens. Father Leonard, Father Bjorn and Deacon Christine led our worship in the marquee with views over the garden and the distant hills and Father Leonard’s sermon focused on the distortion of God’s creation by mankind and the gap between the everyday life of so many of us and His creation – we have become consumers who have lost touch with farmers, agricultural workers, shepherds and all those who work the land that provides us with our food. The task of ‘greening’ is a huge one but it is the aim of our Diocese, the Diocese in Europe, to become carbon neutral by 2030 and, if each one of us does just a couple of ‘small things’, this can be achieved.  For our intercession prayers, Lynn Doolan gave us each a paper fish on which to write a short prayer. These were then ‘caught’ in a net and displayed for everyone to read – a lovely idea. The service was followed by a wine-tasting outside the tiny chapel of Αγ. Γιωργη τον Μεθυστη or St. George the Intoxicated, a Saint unknown to most of us but well-known in Greece as the Saint of the wine harvest.

READ MORE

diocese_in_europe_350X230

Bishop’s Advent Appeal for European Climate Disaster Relief 2021

The Bishop in Europe:

The Right Reverend Dr. Robert Innes

 

Climate change is probably the biggest single issue facing humanity at present and into the future. When I speak to Anglican colleagues from around the world, I hear of its impacts in everything from threatened islands in Polynesia to desertification in sub-Saharan Africa. But this last summer, we have been forcibly reminded that climate change is a global phenomenon that visits our own doorstep in Europe: fires have taken hold in Greece, Spain and Turkey; there has been severe and fatal flooding in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. Our chaplain in Liège, Revd Guy Diakiese, was among those pushing water and mud out of the living-rooms of neighbours.

 

The root causes of climate change are now generally acknowledged to be the increase in greenhouse gases generated mainly by the human burning of carbon. There is pressure worldwide to reduce use of fossil views and stabilise temperature rises, and this is what COP26 in Glasgow is about. But as well as addressing the causes we also need to address the effects of rising temperature, as seen in more and more extreme weather events. Very high rates of rainfall and very high temperatures have a devastating impact on the wellbeing of people and property, as we have seen in our corner of the world. The image is of the town of Bad Neuenahr in the Rhineland.

 

So my Advent Appeal this year will be focused on assisting agencies that are working in these parts of Europe, as they bring support to those who are affected by man-made climate change.

 

Many of us will know the work of Caritas International, the Roman Catholic agency that sustains many varieties of Christian relief and support across the world; their national agencies in Spain and Italy will assist with disaster relief.

 

Click here to read the full text of Bishop Robert’s Appeal

 

 

All Saints

Service for All Saints Sunday – 31st October 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s. If you are visiting, or here for the first time.

 

Presiding Priest: The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan  

Deacon & preacher: The Revd. Deacon Christine Saccali

 

Entrance Hymn    148  The God of Abraham praise
Priest:  In the name of the Father, and of the Son,

and of the Holy Spirit.

All:        Amen.                                                                                                            

 Priest:  The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

 

Words by Jonny Baker, taken from the book: ‘The Hospitality of God’ by Michael Perham

Deacon:           All are invited, all are included

All are made welcome, none are excluded

This is the table of Christ

Come if you’re young, come if you’re old

Come if you’re broken, come if you’re whole

Come if you’re weary of the trials of life

This is the table of Christ.

 

Introduction The priest welcomes everyone and introduces the service

 

Confession

There will be a short moment of silence as we bring to mind our wrongdoings

 

Deacon:           Lord, you are gracious and compassionate:

Lord, have mercy.

All:                  Lord, have mercy.

Deacon:           You are loving to all and your mercy is over all your creation:

Christ, have mercy.

All:                  Christ, have mercy.

 

Deacon:           Your faithful servants bless your name and speak of your glory:

Lord, have mercy.

All:                   Lord, have mercy.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all those who are truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness and keep you in life eternal; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

READ MORE

Harvest Blog 2021

Service for St Paul’s Harvest Festival at the Kokotos Winery – 24th October 2021

Opening hymn:

We plough the fields, and scatter
the good seed on the land,
but it is fed and watered
by God’s almighty hand:
he sends the snow in winter,
the warmth to swell the grain,
the breezes, and the sunshine,
and soft, refreshing rain.

Refrain:
All good gifts around us
are sent from heaven above;
then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord,
for all his love.

2 He only is the maker
of all things near and far;
he paints the wayside flower,
he lights the evening star;
the winds and waves obey him,
by him the birds are fed;
much more to us, his children,
he gives our daily bread. [Refrain]

3 We thank thee then, O Father,
for all things bright and good,
the seed-time and the harvest,
our life, our health, our food.
Accept the gifts we offer
for all thy love imparts,
and, what thou most desirest,
our humble, thankful hearts. [Refrain]

 

Priest: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ

All:  and also with you.

 

The priest welcomes everyone to the liturgy. The deacon then leads the Confession

Deacon: God’s whole creation groans.  We confess our sin in penitence and faith.

Deacon: Consider the birds of the air; they do not sow or gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Lord have mercy.

All: Lord have mercy

Deacon: Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they do not toil or spin, yet even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Christ have mercy.

All: Christ have mercy

Deacon: How little faith we have. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. Lord have mercy.

All: Christ have mercy.

The priest then pronounces the words of Absolution.

READ MORE

St Francis

Pet Service and Blessing

Following the morning liturgy on Sunday 3rd October, the day before the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, a service of thanks for pets and all our fellow creatures was held at St. Paul’s, with Father Leonard (Senior Anglican Priest in Greece) and Father Bjorn (Pastor to the Swedish community, accompanied by his guitar) presiding. Hymns were ‘Morning has Broken’, ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’ and ‘All Creatures of our God and King’. A Swedish song, ‘Only one who is walking Close the Ground can see the Wonders of God’, was sung by Father Bjorn and a member of his congregation. Prayers, Homily and Readings focused on our relationship with nature and all living creatures and the affection and psychological support given by pets, especially during times of stress and even more during Covid lockdowns. Father Leonard spoke of our hope that the November United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow would lead to more international action to fight this rapidly-increasing phenomenon affecting not only us but all life on earth – a catastrophic legacy for our children and future generations.

First to arrive were Hector, who brought along Lynn, and Piglet, accompanied by Sandra. Others soon followed, amongst them a small French bulldog recovering from surgery and a little charmer equipped with a set of wheels, who scurried around meeting and greeting. The joy of all at this unexpected get-together was a delight to see.

A note: We remember, of course, Greek singer Cat Steven’s rendering of  ‘Morning has Broken’, which became an international hit. It began life as a Christian hymn published in 1931, written by Eleanor Farjeon, who was inspired by the village of Alfriston in Sussex and set to a traditional Gaelic tune, ‘Bunessan’. Since then it has been a firm favourite for children’s services and takes many of us back to our school days.

 

Jean Mertzanakis

 

 

 

diocese_in_europe_350X230

Friends’ Annual Service 2021

 ” … and it was very good.”

 These words from Genesis (1:31) are the inspiration for the 2021 Annual Service of the Friends of the Diocese in Europe, which will take place on Monday 25 October at 1100 hours (BST) or 1200 hours (CET). At a time when we are yearning for the worst effects of the global Pandemic to pass, this service celebrates God’s Creation, and why our Faith is a constant source of hope for us. The service will be streamed live from the Pro-Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, Brussels.  The celebrant will be the Rt Revd Dr Robert Innes, Bishop in Europe and among others taking part will be the Archdeacon of Gibraltar, and of Italy and Malta; the Diocesan Environment Officer; and members of the Friends’ Committee. Please join us using the following link:

 

Join Zoom Meeting

ID: 875 6569 2427
Pass Code: 443591
An Order of Service will be available to be downloaded from the Friends’ News web page (https://europe.anglican.org/friends-of-the-diocese/friends-of-the-diocese-news) in due course but will also be on screen during the service.

 

Trinity 10

Service for the 20th Sunday after Trinity – 17th October 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Fr. Bjorn will lead the worship and Nelly Paraskevopoulou will preach. Virginia Stevens is the Assistant.  Fr. Leonard and Deacon Chris are at the Archdeaconry Synod, being held this year in Corfu.

 

Opening Hymn: 343 Bright the vision

 

Priest:                In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:                     Amen.

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

The presiding priest welcomes the congregation and invites the assistant to lead us into a short time of silence and stillness

 

Assistant:          Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

     Assistant:          You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Assistant:          You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                                Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Gloria: (Sung) Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, You take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen, Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray     (Collect of the Day) 

God our light and our salvation: illuminate our lives, that we may see your goodness in the land of the living, and looking on your beauty may be changed into the likeness of Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:  Amen.

READ MORE

Trinity 10

Service for the 19th Sunday after Trinity – 10th October 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Fr. Leonard will preside and preach. The assistant is Angelos Palioudakis.

 

Opening Hymn: 391  King of glory, king of peace

 

Priest:                In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:                     Amen.

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

The presiding priest welcomes the congregation and invites the assistant to lead us into a short time of silence and stillness

 

Assistant:          Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

     Assistant:          You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Assistant:          You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                                Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Gloria: (Sung) Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, You take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen, Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray     (Collect of the Day) 

Faithful Lord, whose steadfast love never ceases and whose mercies never come to an end: grant us the grace to trust you and to receive the gifts of your love, new every morning, in Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:  Amen.

READ MORE

Trinity 10

Service for the 18th Sunday after Trinity – 3rd October 2021

St Paul’s Athens

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach. Deacon Christine is the deacon.  Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Opening Hymn: 368  Guide me, O thou great Redeemer

 Priest:                Blessed be the kingdom of God.

All:                     Now and for ever. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

The deacon invites us into a short time of silence and stillness

 Deacon:            Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

     Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                                Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, You take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen, amen.

READ MORE

From Athens to LA Blog news

From Athens to LA!

On Saturday September 18th around 70 guests attended a ’Greek Time’ evening at All Saints’ Church, Long Ashton, in the county of Somerset, England. The Rev. James Harris who, with his family, spent a year with us in Athens from 2018 to 2019 , hosted this live and Zoom fundraising event on our behalf.
Accompanied by tiropita, spanakopita, kourabiedes and Assyrtiko wine, the evening was based on two very different memories, those of the Rev. Ernest Byles, an Army Chaplain posted to Athens in 1944 to re-open the Anglican Church in the newly-liberated city and those of Father James who, 74 years later, joined us with his family at this same church and offered invaluable help as Greece suffered the impact of a global economic crisis and became the epicenter of the European migrant crisis, work that continues today. Both priests then found themselves living and serving in the same area of Somerset –one, retired but assisting at All Saints, Long Ashton and the other being installed as Rector in 2020. Two priests – two churches – one story linking the years.
The evening raised a much-appreciated sum of more than £1,000 and we hope that one day we may able to welcome Father James and some of our Long Ashton friends to Athens and thank them in person.
Harvest Blog

St Paul’s Harvest Festival Celebration – Sunday 24th October 2021

ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH, ATHENS

HARVEST FESTIVAL CELEBRATION

SUNDAY 24th OCTOBER

AT THE KOKOTOS VINEYARD, STAMATA, ATTIKIS

 

Harvest Eucharist

Wine Tasting

Harvest Lunch

          11 a.m.

          12.30 p.m.

          1.30 p.m

 

Tickets: Adults €15 / Children 3-10 €7

A coach will depart from the Church at 10 a.m.

For bookings please contact:

Lynn Stavrou – 211 1838 414 / 6938 325 088 lynnstav@gmail.com

For information on how to get there:

6946 504 839 / info@ktimakokotou.gr

 

Gifts of dried or tinned goods for the needy are most welcome

 

PLEASE NOTE 

All attendees MUST bring proof of Vaccination, either on your mobile or certificate.

Thank you.

 

Click here for the Service Sheet in our “Blog News”

 

Trinity 10

Service for the 17th Sunday after Trinity – 26th September 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach. Deacon Christine is the deacon.  Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Opening Hymn:  364 (tune 408) God is love

 

Priest:                Blessed be the kingdom of God.

All:                     Now and for ever. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

The deacon invites us into a short time of silence and stillness

 

Deacon:            Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

     Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                                Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, You take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen, amen.

 READ MORE

Trinity 10

Service for the 16th Sunday after Trinity – 19th September 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach. Deacon Christine is the preacher.  Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Opening Hymn:  265 Lord of beauty

 

Priest:                Blessed be the kingdom of God.

All:                     Now and for ever. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

The deacon invites us into a short time of silence and stillness

 

Deacon:            Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

     Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                                Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, You take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen, amen.

 READ MORE

Trinity 10

Service for the 15th Sunday after Trinity – 12th September 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach. Angelos Pouliadakis will assist.    Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Opening Hymn:  377  Immortal, invisible

 

Priest:                Blessed be the kingdom of God.

All:                     Now and for ever. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

The deacon invites us into a short time of silence and stillness

 Assistant:          Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

     Assistant:         You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Assistant:         You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                                Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, You take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen, amen.

READ MORE

St Francis

St Francis Time – Pet Service 3 October 2021 – 12.00 noon

St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Philellinon 27,  Athens

FrancisCome to St. Paul’s to give thanks for all the affection and friendship you receive from your pet. Either bring your pet to church for a blessing (no camels or elephants!) or bring a photograph. There will be a collection taken and 20% will be given to an animal charity in Athens.

(COVID Restrictions apply to human numbers inside the church building – service relayed to the garden on external speakers)

 

Bible STudies

St Paul’s Christmas Bazaar 2021 – a letter from Fr Leonard

Dear Friends

A date has been fixed for a Christmas Bazaar – Sunday 5th December 2021. Please fix that date in your diaries and planners now.

If you have been in Zappeion recently you will see that Aegli Restaurant is in a very sorry state – closed down and stripped of all fittings. There is no way that the Bazaar can take place as it has for several years now at Aigli. Anyway, to rent that basement space for one day cost €4,000, which is a huge bite into any money that is raised on the day.

Lynn Stavrou has booked the spacious entrance lobby outside the lecture theatre at the War Museum in central Athens. The cost for the day is €600.

Although the area at the war Museum is large, clearly we will not have as many square metres as in previous years, so we will all have to think differently for the Bazaar from now on. Not all the usual stalls will be possible, and not as much space can be given to all the stalls. Flexibility will be the order of the day, but the most exciting thing is that we are planning a Bazaar this year. You will recall that COVID restrictions in 2020 prevented us from having any fund-raising events.

Lynn Stavrou will co-ordinate the stall holders this year.

We are now inviting you to consider if you would be willing to organize your stall again – or offer to help support stall holders in some way. We also need manual help in setting up and clearing away tables, and help with transporting some items from Karneadou 6 to the Museum, and back again at the end of the day.

PLEASE contact Lynn Stavrou about your stall, or Trevor Kamuzonde if you can offer help with furniture moving on the day. Act now at this early stage by indicating that you would like to run a stall, and experience will inform you that it is time to start collecting and preparing for your stall.

COVID restrictions: we will of course be subject to any restrictions that apply to the Museum, and it will be the Museum authorities that decide if the Bazaar proceeds or is cancelled. This will not be a decision made by the Wardens or Fr. Leonard.

 

Lynn Stavrou

Trevor Kamuzonde

Leonard Doolan                         September 2021

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Liturgy of the Word – Sunday 29th August 2021

Welcome to St Paul’s Athens,   especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.  Deacon Christine leads our worship today, and is the preacher.  The hymn is announced from the door.

 

1 Angel voices ever singing
round Thy throne of light,
angel harps, forever ringing,
rest not day nor night;
thousands only live to bless Thee
and confess thee Lord of might.

 

2 Thou who art beyond the farthest
mortal eye can scan,
can it be that Thou regardest
songs of sinful man?
Can we feel that Thou art near us
and wilt hear us? Yea, we can.

 

3 Yea, we know Thy love rejoices
o’er each work of Thine;
Thou didst ears and hands and voices
for Thy praise combine;
craftsman’s art and music’s measure
for Thy pleasure didst design.

 

4 Here, great God, today we offer
of Thine own to Thee;
and for Thine acceptance proffer,
all unworthily,
hearts and minds and hands and voices
in our choicest melody.

 

5 Honour, glory, might, and merit
Thine shall ever be,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
blessed Trinity:
of the best that Thou hast given
earth and heaven render Thee.

 

Minister:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father

and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Minister:  O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Minister: Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

 

The minister then welcomes people informally.

 

Prayers of Penitence

Minister:   Jesus says, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand. So let us turn away from our sin and turn to Christ, confessing our sins in penitence and faith.

 

All: Lord God, we have sinned against you;

       we have done evil in your sight.

       We are sorry and repent.

Have mercy on us according to your love.

       Wash away our wrongdoing and cleanse us from our sin.

       Renew a right spirit within us and restore us to the joy of your salvation;

       through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Minister:  May the Father of all mercies cleanse us from our sins, and restore us

in his image to the praise and glory of his name, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:            Amen

 READ MORE

BVM BLOG

Service for the feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary – 15th August 2021

Anglican Church in Greece – St Paul’s Athens

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach. The deacon is Deacon Christine.   Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Opening Hymn: 185   (tune Abbot’s Leigh)

 

Priest:                Blessed be the kingdom of God.

All:                     Now and for ever. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

Priest:                Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women

and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.

All:                      Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of

                            our death.

 

The deacon invites us into a short time of silence and stillness

 

All:        Most merciful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we confess that we have sinned in thought, word and deed. We have not loved you with our whole heart. We have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. In your mercy forgive what we have been, help us to amend what we are, and direct what we shall be: that we may do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with you, our God. Amen.

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory in the highest to the God of heavens:

              Peace to all your people through the earth be given.

              Mighty God and Father, thanks and praise we bring,

              Singing Alleluia! To the heavenly King.

              Jesus Christ is risen, God the Father’s Son;

              With the Holy Spirit, you are Lord alone.

              Lamb once killed for sinners, all our guilt to bear,

              Show us now your mercy, now receive our prayer

             

             Christ the world’s true Saviour, high and holy one,

              Seated now and reigning from your Father’s throne:

              Lord and God, we praise you! Highest heaven adores:

              In the Father’s glory, all the praise be yours!

READ MORE

Trinity 10

Service for the 10th Sunday after Trinity – 8th August 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach. Angelos Pouliadakis will assist.   Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Opening Hymn: 234  (2nd tune Ratisbon)

 

Priest:                Blessed be the kingdom of God.

All:                     Now and for ever. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

The assistant invites us into a short time of silence and stillness

 

Assistant:           Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

     Assistant:           You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                 Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Assistant:           You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                                 Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory in the highest to the God of heavens:

              Peace to all your people through the earth be given.

              Mighty God and Father, thanks and praise we bring,

              Singing Alleluia! To the heavenly King.

 

              Jesus Christ is risen, God the Father’s Son;

              With the Holy Spirit, you are Lord alone.

              Lamb once killed for sinners, all our guilt to bear,

              Show us now your mercy, now receive our prayer

              

             Christ the world’s true Saviour, high and holy one,

              Seated now and reigning from your Father’s throne:

              Lord and God, we praise you! Highest heaven adores:

              In the Father’s glory, all the praise be yours!

 

Collect:  Let us pray     (Collect of the Day) 

Lord of heaven and earth, as Jesus taught his disciples to be persistent in prayer, give us patience and courage never to lose hope, but always to bring our prayers before you; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  All:  Amen.

READ MORE

Trinity

Service for the 9th Sunday after Trinity – 1st August 2021, St Paul’s Athens

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach. Deacon Christine will assist.   Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Opening Hymn: 368  Guide me O thou great Redeemer

 

Priest:                In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:                     Amen. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

The Deacon invites us into a short time of silence and stillness

 

Deacon:             Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison              All: Kyrie eleison

     Deacon:             You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                 Christe eleison          All: Christe eleison

Deacon:             You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                                 Kyrie eleison             All:  Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Glory to God in the heaven above, peace to his friends on earth.

Lord God of hosts, and our heavenly King, Father and mighty God.

We worship you, we give you thanks, praise to your holy name.

‘Glory to God’ heaven declares ‘Glory’ creation sings.

Refrain:  Glory to God in the heaven above, peace to his friends on earth.

                God, ever three, yet eternally one, glorious Trinity.

 

Son of the Father, and Lord of us all, holy eternal Lamb,

Christ, who has carried the sin of the world, mercy on us, we pray.

Jesus our God, Saviour and Judge, answer us when we cry;

Seated on high, reigning with God, hear and receive our prayer.  Refrain.

 

You, Jesus Christ, are the Lord, the Most High, you are the Holy One.

You, only you, with the Spirit divine, reign in the Father’s love.

Blessed are you, Father and Son, Spirit of grace and truth;

Myst’ry profound, veiled yet revealed, hidden in depths of light.  Refrain

 

Collect:  Let us pray     (Collect of the Day) 

Gracious Father, revive your Church in our day, and make her holy, strong, and faithful, for your glory’s sake in Jesus Christ our Lord.  All:  Amen.

READ MORE

Summer Raffle

Summer Raffle Prizewinning Tickets Announced

ST PAUL’S GRAND SUMMER RAFFLE PRIZE WINNERS

DRAWN ON SUNDAY JULY 18TH AFTER MORNING SERVICE

 

PERRAKIS HOTEL ANDROS

3 nights for two people (in September 2021)

WHITE 0106

 

HIPPOCAMBOS HOTEL NAOUSA PAROS

2 nights for 2 people (all through September)

BLUE 20

BRITISH EMBASSY SUMMER HAMPER

GREEN 32

BLACK & DECKER    

25cm CORDED STRIMMER

ORIFLAME stainless steel GENT’S BRACELET  WATCH

  WHITE 0351     

SEIKO stainless steel GENT’S WATCH

GREEN 12

TZITZIKAS KAI MERMIGAS (Syntagma)

A meal Voucher Value 50

WHITE 0571

CHEZ MICHEL-KOLONAKI BISTROT 

Meal for 2 Voucher  40

GREEN 16

KTIMA KOKOTOS 

2 bottles of wine + 6 wine glasses

BLUE 59

KTIMA KOKOTOS 

2 bottles of wine + 6 wine glasses

WHITE 0203

A BOTTLE OF GRANT’S BLENDED MALT WHISKY

GREEN 88

A BOTTLE OF CHIVAS REGAL WHISKY (12 years)

WHITE 0594

A BASKET OF HOME-MADE JAMS/CHUTNEYS

WHITE 0418

“AIE FEREIN” SUMMER CAMP

VOUCHER FOR   ONE CHILD FOR ONE WEEK AT OAKA

WHITE 0147   

  

BLACK AND DECKER DUSTBUSTER

WHITE 0322

 

SKLAVENITIS VOUCHER FOR €50

GREEN 31

 

MANICURE & PEDICURE (Shamali)

WHITE 0605

2 BOTTLES OF UNIQUE GREEK WINE 

 ‘’Wine with Eleni’’ + 6 wine glasses

WHITE 0135   

2 BOTTLES OF UNIQUE GREEK WINE

Wine with Eleni’’ + 6 wine glasses

GREEN 75   

  

ORIFLAME BEAUTY TREATMENT GIFT SET

GREEN 44

 

BLACK & DECKER SPEEDY SCRUB 

Quick and easy, professional cleaning

GREEN 80

ATTICA VOUCHER-VALUE 50

WHITE 0284

ATTICA VOUCHER-VALUE 50

WHITE 0129

BLUETOOTH WIRELESS PHONE BUDS BY AMY

(Digital Video)

WHITE 0603

Winners who have not yet collected their prize, or arranged for their ticket-seller to collect on their behalf, can go to St. Paul’s from Tuesday 27th July through Saturday 31st July between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. or after the 10 a.m. liturgy on Sunday 1st August (up to 12.30), with the email or ticket stub containing their winning number, and sign on receipt. Any prizes not collected will be retained and included in a future raffle. If there is collection problem please contact  lynnstav@gmail.com

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Service for Sunday Liturgy 25th July 2021 – St Paul’s Athens

Welcome to St Paul’s Athens,   especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Due to Government COVID-19 restrictions ‘double’ masking is required in the church. A distance of 2metres should be kept between each person.

Deacon Christine leads our worship today, and is the preacher. Today is the Feast of St. James the Apostle.

Entrance: The organ will play before the worship begins. The hymn is announced from the door.

 

Opening hymn

1 Who are these like stars appearing,
these before God’s throne who stand?
Each a golden crown is wearing;
who are all this glorious band?
Alleluia! Hark, they sing,
praising loud their heav’nly King.

 

2 Who are these of dazzling brightness,
these in God’s own truth arrayed,
clad in robes of purest whiteness,
robes whose lustre ne’er shall fade,
ne’er be touched by time’s rude hand?
Whence come all this glorious band?

 

 

3 These are they who have contended
for their Saviour’s honour long,
wrestling on ’til life was ended,
foll’wing not the sinful throng;
these, who well the fight sustained,
triumph thro’ the Lamb have gained.

 

4 These are they whose hearts were riven,
sore with woe and anguish tried,
who in pray’r full oft have striven
with the God they glorified;
now, their painful conflict o’er,
God has bid them weep no more.

 

5 These, like priests, have watched and waited,
off’ring up to Christ their will;
soul and body consecrated,
day and night to serve him still:
now in God’s most holy place
blest they stand before his face.

 

Minister:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father

and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Minister:  O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Minister: Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

 

The minister then welcomes people informally.

Prayers of Penitence

Minister:   Jesus says, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand. So let us turn away from our sin and turn to Christ, confessing our sins in penitence and faith.

 

All: Lord God, we have sinned against you;

       we have done evil in your sight.

       We are sorry and repent.

       Have mercy on us according to your love.

       Wash away our wrongdoing and cleanse us from our sin.

       Renew a right spirit within us and restore us to the joy of your salvation;

       through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Minister:  May the Father of all mercies cleanse us from our sins, and restore us

in his image to the praise and glory of his name, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:            Amen

 

Psalm 126

1    When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,  ♦

then were we like those who dream.

2    Then was our mouth filled with laughter  ♦

and our tongue with songs of joy.

3    Then said they among the nations,  ♦

‘The Lord has done great things for them.’

4    The Lord has indeed done great things for us,  ♦

and therefore we rejoiced.

5    Restore again our fortunes, O Lord,  ♦

as the river beds of the desert.

6    Those who sow in tears  ♦

shall reap with songs of joy.

7    Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed,  ♦

will come back with shouts of joy,

bearing their sheaves with them.

 

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now and shall be for ever.  Amen

 

First Reading:  2 Cor 4, 7-15

But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be made visible in our bodies. For while we live, we are always being given up to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be made visible in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you. But just as we have the same spirit of faith that is in accordance with scripture—“I believed, and so I spoke”—we also believe, and so we speak, because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus, and will bring us with you into his presence. Yes, everything is for your sake, so that grace, as it extends to more and more people, may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.

 

At the end of the reading:

Reader: Hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches.

All:         Thanks be to God.

 

Minister:  Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead.

All:            And Christ shall give you light.

Minister:  You have died and your life is hid with Christ in God.

All:            Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead.

Minister:  Set your minds on things that are above,  not on things that are on the earth.

All:            And Christ shall give you light.

Minister:  When Christ our life appears you will appear with him in glory.

All:            Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead,  and Christ shall give you light.

 

 

The Benedictus   Luke 1, 68-79     (Please stand to say the canticle together)

 

  1. Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel, who has come to his people and set them free.
  2. He has raised up for us a mighty Saviour, born of the house of his servant David.
  3. Through his holy prophets God promised of old to save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us,
  4.  To show mercy to our ancestors, and remember your holy covenant.
  5. This was the oath God swore to our father Abraham: to set us free from the hands of our enemies,
  6. Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.
  7. And you, child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,
  8. To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins.
  9. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us,
  10. To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be; world without end.  Amen.

     

    Sung:    Alleluia, Alleluia, Alelluia

     

    Gospel Reading                                                                                      

    Minister:  Alleluia, Alleluia.  We do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

    All:           Alleluia

    Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Matthew (Matt. 20, 20-28)

    All:          Glory to you, O Lord. 

    Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came to him with her sons, and kneeling before him, she asked a favour of him. And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Declare that these two sons of mine will sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” But Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” He said to them, “You will indeed drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left, this is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” When the ten heard it, they were angry with the two brothers. But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. It will not be so among you; but whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be your slave; just as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.”

(After the Gospel)  This is the Gospel of the Lord.
All:          Praise to you, O Christ.         

 

Sermon   (Please be seated)  

 

The Apostles’ Creed  (remain  standing)

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried;

he descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of God the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.    Amen.

 

Intercessions:   Lord in your mercy,  Hear our prayer.

 

Collect for any season:  

Strengthen for service, Lord, the hands that have taken holy things; may the ears which have heard your word be deaf to clamour and dispute; may the tongues that have proclaimed your praise be free from deceit; may the eyes which have seen the tokens of your love shine with the light of hope; and may the bodies that have been fed with Christ, be refreshed with the fullness of your Spirit; glory to you for ever.  Amen

 

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;  thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven.  Give us this day our daily bread.  And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.  And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory for ever and ever.   Amen.

 

The Peace      (Please stand)  The deacon will introduce words for the Peace

                       

The peace of the Lord be always with you

All:                   and also with you

 

Notices:  No Wednesday Eucharist on 28th July.

 

1 For all the saints, who from their labours rest,
who thee by faith before the world confessed,
thy name, O Jesus, be forever bless’d.
Alleluia, alleluia!

 

2 Thou wast their rock, their refuge, and their might,
thou, Christ, the hope that put their fears to flight;
’mid gloom and doubt, their true and shining light.
Alleluia, alleluia!

 

3 Oh, bless’d communion, fellowship divine!
We feebly struggle, they in glory shine,
yet all are one in thee, for all are thine.
Alleluia, alleluia!

 

4 The golden evening brightens in the west.
Soon, soon to faithful servants cometh rest.
Sweet is the calm of paradise the bless’d.
Alleluia, alleluia!

 

5 But lo! There breaks a yet more glorious day;
the saints triumphant rise in bright array,
as God to glory calls them all away.
Alleluia, alleluia!

 

6 From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast,
through gates of pearl streams in the countless host,
*all praising Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
Alleluia, alleluia!

 

Minister:     Let us say the Grace together:    The Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore.   Amen.

Environmentally Friendly Cleaning Products

A Letter from St Paul’s Local Environment Officer

Dear Friends,

Elizabeth Bussmann, Environment Officer for the Diocese in Europe, points out that environmental concerns in the Diocese are not a task for just one person.  LEOs need the support of a team to make it a project owned by the whole congregation. And so I am asking anyone interested in any aspect of the environment to join our St. Paul’s LEO team and lend a hand – this will be almost completely electronically done (minimal physical meetings)

 

Something we can focus on is a plastic-free environment. Don’t think of plastic waste as that great blob travelling the Pacific Ocean. It exists in every water-way in the world – lakes, ponds, streams, rivers and oceans.  What you decide as an individual, what your neighbours decide as a community and what we do as a congregation must and will have an effect on reducing this horrible blight which gets into our drinking water, affects the life of water creatures, enters the food chain and is finally eaten by us. It seeps into the water used for agriculture, both surface and ground, thereby affecting the crops we and our livestock eat.  Plastic is toxic.  Think before buying it or using it. Try to get your local shops and others to stop using it and point them towards available alternatives.

READ MORE

Heading Blog

Council Meeting Report 15th May 2021

The 374th meeting of our Chaplaincy Council took place on Saturday, 3rd July, in the Church building. The Minutes of the 373rd meeting, held on 15th May, were signed by Father Leonard as an accurate record of proceedings. Until such a ‘signing-off’ of the Minutes, no report can be made of decisions taken at any Council meeting.

All Council members (Father Leonard, Deacon Chris Saccali, Trevor Kamuzonde, Lynn Stavrou, Nelly Paraskevopoulou, Sue Stephos, Jean Mertzanakis, Noelle Barkshire, Matilda Amartey, Angelos Palioudakis, Alice Karanja and Banji Ipinsokan) were present at the 15th May meeting, which was attended in part by Archdeacon Leslie Nathaniel of the Diocese in Europe. Archdeacon Leslie reported on the effect of the Covid pandemic on the Diocese and measures taken to ensure continuity of worship and Diocesan life. He spoke with each Council member personally prior to leaving the meeting. The following items were discussed and decisions taken:

Annual Stipend Review: to be discussed further in January.

Appointments: Churchwarden Trevor Kamuzonde agreed to continue as Vice-Chairperson; Jean Mertzanakis would continue as Secretary; no names had been put forward as co-optees, to serve on the Council for a year prior to full membership (or not), but co-optees can be appointed at any time.

Bishops’ Guide to a Well-Run Chaplaincy: this document had been studied by Council members and was adopted as a basis for running the Athens Chaplaincy.

Renewal of Father Leonard’s Licence: due to end in June 2022, this would be further considered at the July meeting – if agreed a note of submission for an extension would be sent to Bishop Robert.

READ MORE

Eat & Drink

Service for the 7th Sunday after Trinity – 18th July 2021, St Paul’s Athens

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach.  Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Priest:                In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:                     Amen. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

There follows a short period of silence and stillness

 

Priest:                Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison

     All:                      Kyrie eleison

     Priest:               You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison

     All:                     Christe eleison

Priest:                You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                                Kyrie eleison

    All:                      Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Glory to God in the heaven above, peace to his friends on earth.

Lord God of hosts, and our heavenly King, Father and mighty God.

We worship you, we give you thanks, praise to your holy name.

‘Glory to God’ heaven declares ‘Glory’ creation sings.

Refrain:  Glory to God in the heaven above, peace to his friends on earth.

                God, ever three, yet eternally one, glorious Trinity.

 

Son of the Father, and Lord of us all, holy eternal Lamb,

Christ, who has carried the sin of the world, mercy on us, we pray.

Jesus our God, Saviour and Judge, answer us when we cry;

Seated on high, reigning with God, hear and receive our prayer.  Refrain.

 

You, Jesus Christ, are the Lord, the Most High, you are the Holy One.

You, only you, with the Spirit divine, reign in the Father’s love.

Blessed are you, Father and Son, Spirit of grace and truth;

Myst’ry profound, veiled yet revealed, hidden in depths of light.  Refrain

 

Collect:  Let us pray     (Collect of the Day) 

Generous God, you give us gifts and make them grow; though our faith is small as a mustard seed, make it grow to your glory and the flourishing of your kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  All:  Amen.

READ MORE

Trinity

Service for the 6th Sunday after Trinity – 11th July 2021 – St Paul’s Athens

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach. The Deacon is

Deacon Christine.  Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Priest:                In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:                     Amen. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

There follows a short period of silence and stillness

 

Deacon:            Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison

     All:                     Kyrie eleison

     Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison

     All:                     Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided.

                                Kyrie eleison

    All:                      Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

 

Glory to God in the heaven above, peace to his friends on earth.

Lord God of hosts, and our heavenly King, Father and mighty God.

We worship you, we give you thanks, praise to your holy name.

‘Glory to God’ heaven declares ‘Glory’ creation sings.

Refrain:  Glory to God in the heaven above, peace to his friends on earth.

                God, ever three, yet eternally one, glorious Trinity.

 

Son of the Father, and Lord of us all, holy eternal Lamb,

Christ, who has carried the sin of the world, mercy on us, we pray.

Jesus our God, Saviour and Judge, answer us when we cry;

Seated on high, reigning with God, hear and receive our prayer.  Refrain.

 

You, Jesus Christ, are the Lord, the Most High, you are the Holy One.

You, only you, with the Spirit divine, reign in the Father’s love.

Blessed are you, Father and Son, Spirit of grace and truth;

Myst’ry profound, veiled yet revealed, hidden in depths of light.  Refrain

 READ MORE

Trinity

Service for the 5th Sunday after Trinity – 4th July 2021 at St Paul’s Athens

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach. The Deacon is

Deacon Christine.

 

Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Priest:                In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:                     Amen. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

There follows a short period of silence and stillness

 Deacon:           Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison

     All:                     Kyrie eleison

     Deacon:            You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison

     All:                     Christe eleison

Deacon:            You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided .

                                Kyrie eleison

    All:                      Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

READ MORE

Eat & Drink

Service for the 4th Sunday after Trinity (Western Calendar) at St Paul’s Athens – 27th June 2021

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach.

 

Before our worship begins the organ will play.

 

Priest:                In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:                     Amen. 

Priest:                The Lord be with you

All:                      and also with you

 

There follows a short period of silence and stillness

 

Assistant:         Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison

     All:                     Kyrie eleison

     Assistant:          You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison

     All:                     Christe eleison

Assistant:          You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided .

                                Kyrie eleison

    All:                      Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness,  and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord .   Amen.

READ MORE

Ascension

Service for Pentecost Sunday 20th June 2021 at St Paul’s Church and on Zoom

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach.

 

Priest:                In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:                     Amen.  Alleluia!

 

1 Come down, O Love divine,
seek thou this soul of mine,
and visit it with thine own ardor glowing;
O Comforter, draw near,
within my heart appear,
and kindle it, thy holy flame bestowing. 

 

2 O let it freely burn,
till earthly passions turn
to dust and ashes in its heat consuming;
and let thy glorious light
shine ever on my sight,
and clothe me round, the while my path illuming. 

 

3 And so the yearning strong,
with which the soul will long,
shall far outpass the power of human telling;
for none can guess its grace,
till Love create a place
wherein the Holy Spirit makes a dwelling.

 

 

Assistant:         Jesus Christ, whom we worship, is our crucified, risen and ascended Lord and we have walked

with him through this journey of love. We have faced the agony of his suffering and death

on a cross. We have rejoiced at hiss bursting free from the bonds of death. We have enjoyed

his risen presence with us and his revelation of himself through the breaking of bread. We

have seen his return to the throne before which every knee shall bow and every tongue

confess that this Jesus is Lord. And now, with the followers of his own time, we await the

coming of the Holy Spirit, his gift to his people, through whom we make Christ known to the

the world.

 

There follows a short period of silence and stillness

 

Assistant:         Your raise the dead to life in the spirit.

Kyrie eleison

     All:                     Kyrie eleison

     Assistant:          You bring pardon and peace to the broken in spirit.

                                Christe eleison

     All:                     Christe eleison

Assistant:          You make one by your Spirit the torn and divided .

                                Kyrie eleison

    All:                      Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and bring you to new life.   Amen.

 

Gloria                                         (tune: Skye Boat Song)             

Glory to God in the heaven above, peace to his friends on earth.

Lord God of hosts, and our heavenly King, Father and mighty God.

We worship you, we give you thanks, praise to your holy name.

‘Glory to God’ heaven declares ‘Glory’ creation sings.

Refrain:  Glory to God in the heaven above, peace to his friends on earth.

                God, ever three, yet eternally one, glorious Trinity.

 

Son of the Father, and Lord of us all, holy eternal Lamb,

Christ, who has carried the sin of the world, mercy on us, we pray.

Jesus our God, Saviour and Judge, answer us when we cry;

Seated on high, reigning with God, hear and receive our prayer.  Refrain.

 

You, Jesus Christ, are the Lord, the Most High, you are the Holy One.

You, only you, with the Spirit divine, reign in the Father’s love.

Blessed are you, Father and Son, Spirit of grace and truth;

Myst’ry profound, veiled yet revealed, hidden in depths of light.  Refrain

 

Collect:  Let us pray     (Collect of the Day) 

Holy Spirit, sent by the Father, ignite in us your holy fire; strengthen your children with the gift of faith, revive your Church with the breath of love, and renew the face of the earth, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:  Amen.

 

First Reading    (please sit)                                                                 Acts 2, 1-21      (Nelly Paraskevopoulou)

When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability. Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. Amazed and astonished, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs—in our own languages we hear them speaking about God’s deeds of power.” All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” But others sneered and said, “They are filled with new wine.” But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, “Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o’clock in the morning. No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel: ‘In the last days it will be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.
Even upon my slaves, both men and women, in those days I will pour out my Spirit; and they shall prophesy.
And I will show portents in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and smoky mist.
The sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the coming of the Lord’s great and glorious day. Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

 

Reader:                  This is the word of the Lord.

All:                           Thanks be to God.

 

Sung Alleluia

 

Assistant:               Alleluia. Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful people and kindle in them

the fire of your love .

All:                          Alleluia

Assistant:               The Lord be with you

All:                           and also with you

Assistant:               Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. John     (John 15, 26-27; 16, 4-15)

All:                          Glory to you, O Lord

“When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father, he will testify on my behalf. You also are to testify because you have been with me from the beginning. But I have said these things to you so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you about them. “I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. But now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts. Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will prove the world wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: about sin, because they do not believe in me; about righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will see me no longer; about judgment, because the ruler of this world has been condemned. “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.

 

Assistant:               This is the gospel of Christ

All:                           Praise to you, O Christ.

 

Sermon                  Fr. Leonard

 

Creed  (led by the Assistant)

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

 

Intercessions:  (kneel or sit) Lord in your mercy;      All:  hear our prayer               

 

Peace:     The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace. If we live in the Spirit, let us walk in the Spirit . Alleluia.

                  The peace of the Lord be always with you.

All:           And also with you. Alleluia.

 

1 Come, Holy Ghost, our souls inspire
and lighten with celestial fire;
thou the anointing Spirit art,
who dost thy sevenfold gifts impart.

 

2 Thy blessed unction from above
is comfort, life, and fire of love;
enable with perpetual light
the dullness of our mortal sight.

 

3 Teach us to know the Father, Son,
and thee, of both, to be but one;
that through the ages all along
this may be our endless song:

 

4 Praise to thine eternal merit,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Amen.

 

The Lord’s Prayer:  (to be prayed in whichever language you chose)

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

All:  Faithful God, who fulfilled the promises of Easter by sending us your Holy Spirit and opening to every race and nation the way of life eternal: open our lips by your Spirit, that every tongue may tell of your glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

1 Now thank we all our God
with heart and hands and voices,
who wondrous things has done,
in whom his world rejoices;
who from our mothers’ arms
has blessed us on our way
with countless gifts of love,
and still is ours today.

 

2 O may this bounteous God
through all our life be near us,
with ever joyful hearts
and blessed peace to cheer us,
to keep us in his grace,
and guide us when perplexed,
and free us from all ills
of this world in the next.

 

3 All praise and thanks to God
the Father now be given,
the Son and Spirit blest,
who reign in highest heaven
the one eternal God,
whom heaven and earth adore;
for thus it was, is now,
and shall be evermore. 

 

Blessing and sending out

Priest:        May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, through the power of the Holy Spirit, and the blessing ….

Assistant:  Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Alleluia, Alleluia.

All:              In the name of Christ. Amen.    Alleluia, Alleluia.     

 

NOTICES

In the Autumn there will be a new book study – Rowan Williams’ Meeting God in Mark. Details to come.

 

Sunday Noon Zoom link – this now stops for the summer season. The Liturgy is at 10.00am on Wednesdays and Sundays. Please register with Fr. Leonard as we can only have 15 inside the church. Others can sit outside and take advantage of our new outside speakers!

 

Fr. Leonard’s usual Day Off – Monday  (in emergencies contact Deacon Christine)

Home tel :  210 72 14 906;  email anglican@otenet.gr

Deacon Chris: 22950 53164: Day off – Friday

Swedish Church: contact Fr. Bjorn on 694 607 2428  (Swedish Sunday Mass at St. Paul’s at 12 Noon)

 

The Anglican Church in Greece (including St. Paul’s) is self-financing, and receives no income other than from the generosity of those who worship here. We are a legal body and we pay tax. Our tax number is 997073090. If you wish to donate direct to our bank (IBAN) the account with Piraeus Bank is:  The Anglican Church in Greece, St. Paul’s Athens  GR 820172 0500 0050 5008 6327 479  Swift code is  PIRB GRAA

   

 

 

 

Ascension

Service for the 7th Sunday of Easter – 13th June 2021: Sunday after Ascension

St Paul’s Athens and on Zoom

 

1 At the name of Jesus ev’ry knee shall bow,
ev’ry tongue confess him King of glory now.
‘Tis the Father’s pleasure we should call him Lord,
who from the beginning was the mighty Word.

 

2 At his voice creation sprang at once to sight,
all the angel faces, all the hosts of light,
thrones and dominations, stars upon their way,
all the heav’nly orders in their great array.

 

3 Humbled for a season to receive a name
from the lips of sinners unto whom he came,
faithfully he bore it spotless to the last,
brought it back victorious, when from death he passed.

 

4 In your hearts enthrone him; there let him subdue
all that is not holy, all that is not true;
crown him as your Captain in temptation’s hour:
let his will enfold you in its light and pow’r.

 

5 Brothers, this Lord Jesus shall return again,
with his Father’s glory, with his angel train;
for all wreaths of empire meet upon his brow,
and our hearts confess him King of glory now.

 

Assistant:         Christ has gone up on high, leading captivity captive and bringing gifts to all people.

As we prepare ourselves to meet him here in the courts of heaven let us call to mind

our many failures and sins

READ MORE

I am the way

Service for the 6th Sunday of Easter – 6 June 2021

St Paul’s Athens and on  Zoom

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach.

 

Priest:                Alleluia. Christ is risen!

All:                     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

1 Love divine, all loves excelling,
joy of heav’n, to earth come down,
fix in us thy humble dwelling,
all thy faithful mercies crown.
Jesus, thou art all compassion,
pure, unbounded love thou art.
Visit us with thy salvation;
enter ev’ry trembling heart.

 

2 Breathe, O breathe thy loving Spirit
into ev’ry troubled breast.
Let us all in thee inherit,
let us find the promised rest.
Take away the love of sinning;
Alpha and Omega be.
End of faith, as its beginning,
set our hearts at liberty.

 

3 Come, Almighty, to deliver,
let us all thy life receive.
Suddenly return, and never,
nevermore they temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
serve thee as thy hosts above,
pray, and praise thee without ceasing,
glory in thy perfect love.

 

4 Finish, then, thy new creation;
true and spotless let us be.
Let us see thy great salvation
perfectly restored in thee.

 

Changed from glory into glory,
till in heav’n we take our place,
till we cast our crowns before thee,
lost in wonder, love and praise.

 

 

Deacon:            Christ our Passover lamb has been sacrificed for us. Let us therefore rejoice by

putting away all malice and evil and confessing our sins with a sincere and pure heart .

 

There follows a short period of silence and stillness

READ MORE

Summer Raffle

The Great St Paul’s Summer Raffle is here!

 

ST PAUL’S GRAND SUMMER RAFFLE

 

  • Get your tickets online by sending an email to lynnstav@gmail.com – tickets cost €2 each or you can purchase 6 tickets for €10. You can pay either via  e-banking:
  • Account Name: THE ANGLICAN CHURCH IN GREECE, ST PAUL’S, ATHENS 
  • BANK: Bank of Piraeus
  • IBAN: GR82 0172 0500 0050 5008 6327 479
  • or by using  PAYPALwww.paypal.me/StPaulsathens

 

  • Payments should include your name, the description “Summer Raffle” and your email address, so that we know who is sending, for what purpose and to let you know if you win a prize! We’ll then email you with your ticket numbers. The draw will be done in the Church garden after the service on the first Sunday following the close of the Raffle (date to be announced). Ticket holders are invited to come along and maybe collect a prize.  If you are a winner but can’t be there, or if we are obliged to do the draw via Zoom, winners will be notified by email.
  • Prizes can be collected during daily opening hours (10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday) or during coffee time after the 10 a.m. Sunday liturgy, on presentation of the email you received giving your ticket numbers. The winner will then sign to confirm receipt of the prize.  Please note: prizes will be kept for a fortnight (2 Sundays). If not collected during that period, they will be entered into a forthcoming raffle. In the event of a lockdown, the fortnight counts from the date the church reopens.

READ MORE

Bible Study Blog

June Bible Studies – Exodus

Leonard Doolan is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.  3 texts supplied *- 4th Session text still to be decided.

Topic: Bible Study – Exodus

Time: Jun 4, 2021 07:00 PM Athens

        Every week on Fri, 4 occurrence(s)

        Jun 4, 2021 07:00 PM

        Jun 11, 2021 07:00 PM

        Jun 18, 2021 07:00 PM

        Jun 25, 2021 07:00 PM

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.

Weekly: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZ0tc-6orzIsHN2YSAAsh7B7AYbVApPumTex/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGhrj8tGtWcth-ORpx5Ao-gKPTzmFhdgo0PpSzEIjNbNSGhF9tABJNvIM3d

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89047019669?pwd=L29kbFhJdnRmeVRIN0JoekcvVElQQT09

 Meeting ID: 890 4701 9669

Passcode: 01yi2C

*Exodus First Session

*Exodus second session

*Exodus third session

12308003_171512473200609_7163125448344572824_o

Updated Covid restrictions and Social Distancing regulations – a message from our Chaplain

Dear All

 As you know I have been trying always to ensure that our compliance with Government COVID restrictions conform to legal interpretation from our lawyer, Mrs. Papatsori.

I was able to speak with her this morning. Nothing has changed yet in terms of 1 person per 15sqm inside the church – double masking. Outside we should be 2 metres away from each other, seated.

Free self-testing for those ‘essential for the worship’ has now ended. Instead a Vaccination certificate is required – either the Greek one or the EU COVID passport, proving that the individual is vaccinated (or a CPR test, 72 hrs before, or a more recent negative self-test.) I have to hold a copy of this certificate in the church. People around the altar, the Wardens, and Sidesperson, should provide one of the forms of certification in order to undertake their duty. The same is required for those attending the Swedish Mass.

Coffee after the service is still not permitted – ‘by analogy’ (the phrase used by the Government regulators) coffee would have to be at tables, no one standing, tables socially distanced, ‘coffee servers’ masked and tested. Clearly we cannot comply with this as yet. Let’s hope for the future….

The Government seems keen to progress by encouragements or advantages towards vaccination. We will see how this affects the churches.

Thanks for continued patience.

Fr. Leonard

The lord is my shepherd

Service for the 5th Sunday of Easter at St Paul’s Athens and on Zoom

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship and preach.

 

Priest:                Alleluia. Christ is risen!

All:                     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

1 The Lord’s my shepherd, I’ll not want.
He makes me down to lie
in pastures green; he leadeth me
the quiet waters by.

 

2 My soul he doth restore again,
and me to walk doth make
within the paths of righteousness,
e’en for his own name’s sake.

 

3 Yea, though I walk in death’s dark vale,
yet will I fear none ill,
for thou art with me and thy rod
and staff me comfort still.

 

4 My table thou hast furnished
in presence of my foes.
My head thou dost with oil anoint,
and my cup overflows.

 

5 Goodness and mercy all my life
shall surely follow me,
and in God’s house forevermore
my dwelling place shall be.

 

 

Assistant:         Christ our Passover lamb has been sacrificed for us. Let us therefore rejoice by

putting away all malice and evil and confessing our sins with a sincere and pure heart .

There follows a short period of silence and stillness

READ MORE

He is risen

Service for the 4th Sunday of Easter 23rd May 2021 at St Paul’s Athens and on Zoom

Deacon Christine is leading the worship and Fr. Leonard is the preacher.

 

Deacon:            Alleluia. Christ is risen!

All:                     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

O praise ye the Lord!
Praise him in the height;
rejoice in his word,
ye angels of light;
ye heavens, adore him
by whom ye were made,
and worship before him,
in brightness arrayed.

O praise ye the Lord!
Praise him upon earth,
in tuneful accord,
ye sons of new birth;
praise him who hath brought you
his grace from above,
praise him who hath taught you
to sing of his love.

O praise ye the Lord!
All things that give sound;
each jubilant chord
re-echo around;
loud organs, his glory
forth tell in deep tone,
and sweet harp, the story
of what he hath done.

 

O praise ye the Lord!
Thanksgiving and song
to him be outpoured
all ages along!
For love in creation,
for heaven restored,
for grace of salvation,
O praise ye the Lord!

READ MORE

He is risen

Service for the 3rd Sunday of Easter: 16th May 2021 at St Paul’s and on Zoom

 

Fr. Leonard is leading the worship and is preaching.

 

Priest:            Alleluia. Christ is risen!

All:                 He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

Ye choirs of new Jerusalem,                        (tune St. Fulbert)
Your sweetest notes employ,
The Paschal victory to hymn
In strains of holy joy.

For Judah’s Lion bursts His chains,
Crushing the serpent’s head;
And cries aloud through death’s domains
To wake th’imprison’d dead.

Devouring depths of hell
Their prey at His command restore;
His ransom’d hosts pursue their way
Where Jesus goes before.

Triumphant in His glory now
To Him all power is given;
To Him in one communion bow
All saints in earth and heaven.

While we, His soldiers, praise our King,
His mercy we implore,
Within His palace bright to bring
And keep us evermore.

All glory to the Father be,
All glory to the Son,
All glory, Holy Ghost, to Thee,
While endless ages run.

READ MORE

He is risen

Service for the 2nd Sunday of Easter: 9th May 202 at St Paul’s and on Zoom

Fr. Leonard is leading the worship and Deacon Christine is preaching.

 

Priest:            Alleluia. Christ is risen!

All:                 He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

1 Alleluia! Alleluia!
Hearts to heav’n and voices raise;
sing to God a hymn of gladness,
sing to God a hymn of praise:
he who on the cross a victim
for the world’s salvation bled,
Jesus Christ, the King of Glory,
now is risen from the dead.

 

2 Christ is risen, Christ the first-fruits
of the holy harvest field,
which will all its full abundance
at his second coming yield:
then the golden ears of harvest
will their heads before him wave,
ripened by his glorious sunshine
from the furrows of the grave.

 

3 Alleluia! Alleluia!
Glory be to God on high;
alleluia to the Saviour,
who has won the victory;
alleluia to the Spirit,
fount of love and sanctity.
Alleluia! Alleluia
to the Triune Majesty
.

 

Assistant:      Christ our Passover lamb has been sacrificed for us. Let us therefore rejoice by

putting away all malice and evil and confessing our sins with a sincere and pure heart .

READ MORE

130 lilies

Easter Lilies

A big thank you to all those who donated 130 lilies in memory of their loved ones. you can see the virtual lilies above and below, the  beautiful flower arrangements that were placed in the Church for Easter Sunday.. The names of your loved ones are given below and will also be written in the Easter Book of  Remembrance, which will be available to view in the Church when it re-opens.

Once again we are hugely grateful to Mary Pelides for making these wonderful flower arrangements to decorate the Church.

 

 

IN MEMORIAM

Maurice Ashford

 

Ann Skinner,

 

Hardy, Lounton and Griffin families

Anthony Antoniadis. Christine Woodlands  . Karl Darley.

 

Donald Orr, Carolyn Grandstaff,  Costas Makaritis,
Sandra Makaritis
Marjorie, Dimitris, Pat, Mary, Mario,

Zoe, Pantelis ,Maria, Anastasia, Vera.

 

Maria, Paraskevas, Maria, Eftsathios, George, Ephraim, Salome, Momo 8

 

Matilda Amartey family

 

Jenkins/Dedes Families

 

Angela Hutton, Pat Mills, Pam Nicholson, John and Roseabelle Newton, Arthur and Rose Wayt, Moscha Arabopoulou, Peter Contraros. Alex maroukis Dimitri maroukis, Wendy mansell

 

Jack and Margery Bradley

READ MORE

He is risen

Service for Easter Sunday 2nd May 2021 at St Paul’s and on Zoom

Easter Sunday: 10.00hrs Holy Liturgy in St. Paul’s  – (pre-register your attendance)

                                12.00noon  Zoom Worship  (new Zoom link – try to join before the start time!)

 

Fr. Leonard is leading the worship and preaching this morning, assisted by Deacon Christine and Angelos Pouliadakis.

 

Blessing of an Easter Candle        (you might like to have a lit candle at home)

Priest:        Eternal God, who made this most holy night to shine with the brightness of your one true

light: set us aflame with the fire of your love, and bring us to the radiance of your

heavenly glory: through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:              Amen

Priest:        Alleluia. Christ is risen!

All:              He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

Renewal of Baptismal Vows

Priest:         As we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ from the dead, we remember that through the paschal mystery we have died and been buried with him in baptism. To follow Christ means dying to sin and rising to new life with him. Therefore I ask:

 

Priest:         Do you reject the devil and all rebellion against God?

All:              I reject them

Priest:         Do your renounce the deceit and corruption of evil?

All:              I renounce them

Priest:         Do you repent of the sins that separate us from God and neighbour?

All:              I repent of them

 

Priest:         May the light of Christ, rising in glory, banish all darkness from our hearts and minds.

In baptism, God calls us out of darkness into his marvellous light. Therefore I ask:

 

Do you turn to Christ as Saviour?

All:             I turn to Christ

Priest:        Do you submit to Christ as Lord?

All:              I submit to Christ

Priest:        Do you come to Christ, the way, the truth, and the life?

All:              I come to Christ

Priest:         Alleluia. Christ is risen!

All:              He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

READ MORE

Dr John Kittmer receives an award from the Greek Ambassador to the United Kingdom

From the Anglican congregations of Athens and Greece, our sincere congratulations to Dr. John Kittmer, former Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Greece. John was awarded the honour of Grand Cross of the Order of the Phoenix by The President of Greece for his work as Chairman of the Anglo-Hellenic League, based in London. The photograph shows Dr. John Kittmer (left), receiving his award, with the Greek Ambassador to the United Kingdom (centre), and Professor Paul Cartledge (right), who incidentally taught John Kittmer when he was at Cambridge.

Palm Sunday

Zoom Service for Palm Sunday- 25th April 2021

We have permission from our bishop to follow the Greek calendar date for Easter (this year only) so today is Palm Sunday. Every day this Holy Week (Monday- Good Friday) there is a form of worship at 10.00hrs. There is a Zoom link. Please join at least 5 minutes before 10.00am if you can. Deacon Chris has a meditation on FB daily at 09.00hrs

 Easter Sunday: 10.00hrs Holy Liturgy in St. Paul’s (pre-register your attendance)

                               12.00 noon  Zoom Worship  (new Zoom link)

 Fr. Leonard is leading the worship and preaching this morning, assisted by Deacon Christine. Christina Antoniadou is playing the keyboard. Please see ‘Chat’ on the day, to see the pieces Christina is playing.

 

Deacon:     Blessed be the Kingdom of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

All:              Now and for ever.

Deacon:     Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:              and also with you.

 

All glory, laud, and honour
To Thee, Redeemer, King!
To Whom the lips of children
Made sweet Hosannas ring,

Thou art the King of Israel
Thou David’s Royal Son,
Who in the LORD’S name comest,
The King and Blessèd One.
All glory, &c.

The company of Angels
Is praising Thee on high,
And mortal men, and all things
Created make reply.
All glory, &c.

The people of the Hebrews
With palms before Thee went
Our praise and prayers and anthems
Before Thee we present.
All glory, &c.

To Thee before Thy Passion
They sang their hymns of praise;
To Thee now high exalted
Our melody we raise.
All glory, &c.

Thou didst accept their praises;
Accept the praise we bring,
Who in all good delightest,
Thou good and gracious King.
All glory, &c.

 

Fr. Leonard will welcome the congregation.

READ MORE

Lent 1 Blog

Zoom service for the 5th Sunday in Lent – Passion Sunday : 18th April 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

We have permission from our bishop to follow the Greek calendar date for Easter (this year only) so today is Lent 5. Next Sunday is Palm SundayAfter the worship we can have a short chat together.

 

FUTURE WEEKS ARRANGEMENTS. Next Sunday (25th April) will be the same Zoom link.  There will be a NEW LINK for May 2nd (Easter Sunday) right through until Pentecost (June 20th). Zoom worship will continue to be at 12 Noon.  Always double check for information on our website.

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship today, and assisted by Josh Barley and Shirley Poulakis. Angelos Pouliadakis is the preacher.  Christina Antoniadou is playing the keyboard. Please see ‘Chat’ on the day, to see the pieces Christina is playing.

 

Priest:         Blessed be the Kingdom of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

All:              Now and for ever.

Priest:         Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:              and also with you.

1 We sing the praise of him who died,                                             (tune  Bow Brickhill)
of him who died upon the cross;
the sinner’s hope let men deride,
for this we count the world but loss.

 

2 Inscribed upon the cross we see
in shining letters, ‘God is love’;
he bears our sins upon the tree;
he brings us mercy from above.

 

3 The cross! It takes our guilt away:
it holds the fainting spirit up;
it cheers with hope the gloomy day,
and sweetens every bitter cup.

 

4 It makes the coward spirit brave,
and nerves the feeble arm for fight;
it takes its terror from the grave,
and gilds the bed of death with light:

 

5 The balm of life, the cure of woe,
the measure and the pledge of love,
the sinner’s refuge here below,
the angels’ theme in heaven above.

READ MORE

Lent 1 Blog

Zoom Service for the Fourth Sunday in Lent – 11th April 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

We have permission from our bishop to follow the Greek calendar date for Easter (this year only) so today is Lent 3. Καλή ΣαρακοστήAfter the worship we can have a short chat together.

 

The Sunday worship login is the same for April 18th, THEN IT WILL CHANGE. There will be a NEW link including Palm Sunday through Holy Week and Easter Sunday. This will be for 10.00hrs.  Always double check for information on our website.

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship today, and preach. Deacon Christine will assist.  Christina Antoniadou is playing the keyboard. Please see ‘Chat’ on the day, to see the pieces Christina is playing.

 

Priest:         Blessed be the Kingdom of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

All:              Now and forever.

Priest:         Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:              and also with you.

 

There will now be a minute’s silence to remember HRH the Duke of Edinburgh.  After this we will sing a verseof the National Anthem.

 

God save our gracious Queen

Long live our noble Queen,

God save the Queen:

Send her victorious

Happy and glorious

Long to reign over us:

God save the Queen.

 

1 Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;                                       (tune  Slane)
naught be all else to me, save that thou art.
Thou my best thought, by day or by night,
waking or sleeping, thy presence my light.

 

2 Be thou my wisdom, be thou my true word;
I ever with thee, and thou with me, Lord.
Born of thy love, thy child may I be,
thou in me dwelling and I one with thee.

 

3 Be thou my buckler, my sword for the fight.
Be thou my dignity, thou my delight,
thou my soul’s shelter, thou my high tow’r.
Raise thou me heav’nward, O Pow’r of my pow’r.

 

4 Riches I heed not, nor vain empty praise;
thou mine inheritance, now and always.
Thou and thou only, first in my heart,
Ruler of heaven, my treasure thou art.

 

5 High King of heaven, when vict’ry is won
may I reach to heaven’s joys, O bright heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my heart, whatever befall,
still be my vision, O Ruler of all.

READ MORE

Lent 1 Blog

Zoom service for the Third Sunday in Lent – 4th April 2021

Western Easter is celebrated today. We have permission from our bishop to follow the Greek calendar date for Easter (this year only) so today is Lent 3. Καλή ΣαρακοστήAfter the worship we can have a short chat together.

 

The Sunday worship login remains the same until the end of April. Always double check for information on our website.

 

Deacon Christine will lead the worship today and Nelly Paraskevopoulou will preach. Melissa Dixon will ‘respond’ on our behalf.  Christina Antoniadou is playing the keyboard. Please see ‘Chat’ on the day, to see the pieces Christina is playing.

 

Deacon:     Blessed be the Kingdom of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

All:              Now and for ever.

Deacon:     Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:              and also with you.

 

1 The God of Abraham praise,                                  (Tune: Leoni)
who reigns enthroned above;
Ancient of Everlasting Days,
and God of Love;
Jehovah, great I AM!
by earth and heaven confessed;
I bow and bless the sacred name
forever blest.

 

2 The great I AM has sworn;
I on this oath depend.
I shall, on eagle wings upborne,
to heaven ascend.
I shall behold God’s face;
I shall God’s power adore,
and sing the wonders of God’s grace
forevermore.

 

3 The heavenly land I see,
with peace and plenty blest;
a land of sacred liberty,
and endless rest.
There milk and honey flow,
and oil and wine abound,
and trees of life forever grow
with mercy crowned.

 

4 The God who reigns on high
the great archangels sing,
and “Holy, holy, holy!” cry
“Almighty King!
Who was, and is, the same,
and evermore shall be:
Jehovah, Lord, the great I AM,
we worship thee!”

READ MORE

Lent 1 Blog

Zoom service for the Second Sunday in Lent – 28th March 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

We have permission from our bishop to follow the Greek calendar date for Easter (this year only) so today is Lent 2. Καλή Σαρακοστή.  After the worship we can have a short chat together.

 

The Sunday worship login remains the same until the end of April. Always double check for information on our website. This year we are aligned to the Greek Orthodox date for Easter.

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship today and preach.  Christina Antoniadou is playing the keyboard. Please see ‘Chat’ on the day, to see the pieces Christina is playing.

 

If you are printing off this service or reading it online before Sunday 28thremember to put your clock forward one hour!!!

 

Priest:     Blessed be the Kingdom of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

All:          Now and for ever.

Priest:     Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:           and also with you.

 

1 My God, how wonderful thou art,
thy majesty how bright!
How beautiful thy mercy seat,
in depths of burning light!

 

2 Wondrous are thine eternal years,
O everlasting Lord,
by holy angels day and night
unceasingly adored!

 

3 O how I fear thee, living God,
with deepest, tend’rest fears,
and worship thee with trembling hope
and penitential tears!

READ MORE

CHORAL_EVENSONG

Night Prayer (Compline) for the Lent Season

The Lord almighty grant us a quiet night and a perfect end.  All  Amen.

Our help is in the name of the Lord

All  who made heaven and earth.

A period of silence for reflection on the past day may follow.

All  Most merciful God, we confess to you, before the whole company of heaven and one

      another, that we have sinned in thought, word and deed and in what we have failed

      to do. Forgive us our sins, heal us by your Spirit and raise us to new life in Christ. Amen.

 

O God, make speed to save us.

All  O Lord, make haste to help us.

All  Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning is now and shall be for ever. Amen.

 

The following or another suitable hymn may be sung

  1. Before the ending of the day, Creator of the world, we pray

That you, with steadfast love, would keep Your watch around us while we sleep.

  1. From evil dreams defend our sight, From fears and terrors of the night;

Tread underfoot our deadly foe That we no sinful thought may know.

  1. O Father, that we ask be done Through Jesus Christ, your only Son;

And Holy Spirit, by whose breath, Our souls are raised to life from death.

 READ MORE

Lent 1 Blog

Zoom Service for the First Sunday in Lent – 21st March 2021

St Paul’s Athens

 

We have permission from our bishop to follow the Greek calendar date for Easter (this year only) so today is Lent 1. Καλή Σαρακοστή. After the worship we can have a short chat together.

 

The Sunday worship login remains the same until the end of April. Always double check for information on our website. This year we are aligned to the Greek Orthodox date for Easter.

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship today and Deacon Christine is the preacher. Christina Antoniadou is playing the keyboard. Please see ‘Chat’ on the day, to see the pieces Christina is playing. Clary Read will sing the John Rutter version of the blessing at the close of our worship. The Annual Meeting will take place online at 13.00. ALL papers for the meeting are on the website.

 

Priest:     Blessed be the Kingdom of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

All:          Now and for ever.

Priest:     Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:           and also with you.

 

1 Now is the healing time decreed           (tune Gonfalon Royal)
For sins of heart and word and deed,
When we in humble fear record
The wrong that we have done the Lord

 

2 Who, always merciful and good,
Has borne so long our wayward mood,
Nor cut us off unsparingly
In our so great iniquity.

 

3 Therefore with fasting and with prayer,
Our secret sorrow we declare,
With all good striving seek his face,
And lowly-hearted plead for grace.

 

4 Cleanse us, O Lord, from every stain,
Help us the gifts of grace to gain,
Till with the angels, linked in love,
Joyful we tread thy courts above.

 

5 We pray thee, holy Trinity,
One God, unchanging Unity,
That we from this our abstinence
May reap the fruits of penitence. Amen.

READ MORE

Madonna 7 Child Blog

Zoom service for Sunday next before Lent: 14th March 2021 – Mothering Sunday

St Paul’s Athens

 

After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence. In the UK today is kept as Mothering Sunday, so we are observing this celebration today.

 

The Sunday worship login remains the same until the end of April. Always double check for information on our website. This year we are aligned to the Greek Orthodox date for Easter.

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship today and is the preacher. The Deacon is Deacon Christine. Christina Antoniadou is playing the keyboard. Please see ‘Chat’ on the day, to see the pieces Christina is playing.

 

Priest:     Blessed be the Kingdom of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

All:          Now and forever.

Priest:     Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:           and also with you.

 

For I’m building a people of power          

And I’m making a people of praise
That will move through this land by My Spirit,
And will glorify My precious name.”

                         Build Your church, Lord,
                         Make us strong, Lord,
                         Join our hearts, Lord, through Your Son.
                         Make us one, Lord,
                         In Your Body,
                         In the kingdom of Your Son.

 

The deacon leads us into a short period of silence, followed by Confession.

 

Deacon:     Wash me thoroughly from my wickedness and cleanse me from my sin

Kyrie eleison

All:              Kyrie eleison

Deacon:     Make me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me

                    Christe eleison

All:              Christe eleison

Deacon:     Cast me not away from your presence and take not your Holy Spirit from me

                    Kyrie eleison

All:              Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting for St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens will take place on Zoom, at 1.00pm on Sunday 21st March 2021, after the morning service.

You will not need to log-in separately, just stay online after the service.

Click here for the Zoom Login for Sunday Service

 

All the documents pertaining to the meeting have been uploaded and are available to view online.  They may then be personally downloaded or printed if necessary.  Each document has a separate link and should be clicked to view.  They are not altogether on one link. There are nine documents altogether:

  • Information on Zoom Meeting
  • Agenda
  • Minutes of the APCM 2020
  • Nomination form for Church Wardens
  • Nomination form for Parish Council Members
  • Nomination form for Archdeaconry Synod Representatives
  • Accounts for the last Financial Year
  • Auditors Report
  • Reports on Church Organisations and Events.

 

 

Bible STudies

Zoom Service for Sunday 7th March 2021

2nd Sunday before Lent

 

After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 The Sunday worship login remains the same until the end of April. Always double check for information  on our website. This year we are aligned to the Greek Orthodox date for Easter.

 Deacon Chris will lead the worship today, assisted by Nelly. The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard

 

Deacon:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:           and also with you.

 

1 All creatures of our God and King,
lift up your voice and with us sing,
alleluia, alleluia!
Thou burning sun with golden beam,
thou silver moon with softer gleam,
O sing ye, O sing ye, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

 

2 Thou rushing wind that art so strong,
ye clouds that sail in heav’n along,
alleluia, alleluia!
Thou rising morn in praise rejoice,
ye lights of evening, find a voice,
O sing ye, O sing ye, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

 

3 Dear mother earth, who day by day,
unfoldest blessings on our way,
alleluia, alleluia!
The flow’rs and fruits that in thee grow,
let them God’s glory also show,
O sing ye, O sing ye, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

 

4 Let all things their Creator bless,
and worship God in humbleness,
alleluia, alleluia!
To God all thanks and praise belong!
Join in the everlasting song:
O sing ye, O sing ye, alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

READ MORE

Feb 7th

Zoom Service for Sunday 28th February 2020

3rd  Sunday before Lent

 

After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 Fr. Leonard will lead the service today, assisted by Alice Karanja. The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard

 

Priest:      Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:           and also with you.

 

1 Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;
naught be all else to me, save that thou art.
Thou my best thought, by day or by night,
waking or sleeping, thy presence my light.

 

2 Be thou my wisdom, be thou my true word;
I ever with thee, and thou with me, Lord.
Born of thy love, thy child may I be,
thou in me dwelling and I one with thee.

 

3 Be thou my buckler, my sword for the fight.
Be thou my dignity, thou my delight,
thou my soul’s shelter, thou my high tow’r.
Raise thou me heav’nward, O Pow’r of my pow’r.

 

4 Riches I heed not, nor vain empty praise;
thou mine inheritance, now and always.
Thou and thou only, first in my heart,
Ruler of heaven, my treasure thou art.

 

5 High King of heaven, when vict’ry is won
may I reach to heaven’s joys, O bright heaven’s Sun!

Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
still be my vision, O Ruler of all.

READ MORE

Feb 7th

Zoom Service for Sunday 21st February 2021 at 12.00 noon

We are following the Orthodox date for Easter this year. Today is the

4th Sunday before Lent. 

 

Welcome to our worship brought to our homes by Zoom. After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

The Sunday worship login will remain the same until the end of April. See notices at end of sheet.  

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship today, assisted by Deacon Chris who is the preacher. On the keyboard is Christina Antoniadou. 

 

Priest:      Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:           and also with you.

1 Morning has broken
Like the first morning,
Blackbird has spoken
Like the first bird.
Praise for the singing!
Praise for the morning!
Praise for them, springing
Fresh from the Word!

 

2 Sweet the rain’s new fall
Sunlit from Heaven,
Like the first dewfall
On the first grass.
Praise for the sweetness
Of the wet garden,
Sprung in completeness
Where his feet pass.

 

3 Mine is the sunlight,
Mine is the morning,
Born of the one light
Eden saw play.
Praise with elation,
Praise every morning,
God’s re-creation
Of the new day!

READ MORE

Picture Trinity 17

Celebrating Easter in a time of Covid

Easter 2021 will be the second Easter in this long period of the COVID pandemic. The Greek Government approaches COVID restrictions and the Church in its own distinct national way. Due to these two factors St. Paul’s Athens will align itself this year with the Greek date for Easter. This is for 2021 only and it is hoped that by celebrating Pascha almost a month later than the western date there will be more favourable conditions for worship in St. Paul’s. We sought permission for this, and the Church Council was unanimous in its vote to make this change. St. Thomas’s Crete, and Holy Trinity Corfu will also follow this practice.

Key dates: Ash Wednesday March 17th

                    Palm Sunday       April 25th

                    Holy Thursday    April 29th

                    Good Friday        April 30th

                    Easter Sunday    May 2nd

                    Ascension Day   June 10th

                    Pentecost           June 20th

Times of the Liturgy and Zoom services will be announced and publicized via the Website.

Feb 7th

Zoom Worship for Sunday 14th February 2021 at 12.00 noon

Welcome to our worship brought to our homes by Zoom. After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship today, assisted by Deacon Chris. On the keyboard is Christina Antoniadou.  The preacher is Fr. Leonard. Today, traditionally, 14th February is St. Valentine’s day.

 

Priest:      Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:           and also with you.

READ MORE

Feb 7th

Zoom Service for Sunday 7th February 2021

Welcome to our worship brought to our homes by Zoom. After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

The Sunday worship login is only for today! Always double check for information on our website.   

 

Fr. Leonard will lead the worship today, assisted by Deacon Chris. On the keyboard is Christina Antoniadou.  The preacher is Fr. Leonard.

 

Priest:      Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:           and also with you.

READ MORE

coffee-beans-and-steaming-cup

Virtual Coffee Morning

Is the Perpetual Pandemic getting you down?  Do you miss seeing and chatting to your friends and acquaintances?

Why don’t you join us for another Virtual Coffee Morning on Saturday 20th February 2021 at 10.30 am.  Invite friends, bring your coffee to the screen and have a good old chat.   Better still, why don’t you buy one of our St Paul’s Coffee Mugs so you have a truly immersive experience!  If you didn’t manage to make it last Saturday we hope you will put a note in your diaries and join us on the 20th.

 

Fr. Leonard will start by being host by setting up the zoom link for us to send out to friends making it very easy for anyone to join.  

If you would be prepared to help be a ‘zoom host’ on the odd Saturday zoom coffee morning please email Fr.Leonard.

Join Zoom Meeting

Zoom link to the virtual Coffee Morning

Meeting ID: 810 7786 3979

Passcode: tv7JXN

Coffee Mugs

Mug _A_ Front

St Paul’s China Mugs on Sale

We are delighted to offer for sale two beautiful China Mugs depicting St Paul’s.

The two mugs, in Black and White, and in Pink, Black and White are priced at €10.00 each.

Postage and Packing throughout Greece and abroad costs €7.00.

All mugs come individually wrapped and boxed.

Payment can be made in several ways:

Bank Transfer – THE ANGLICAN CHURCH IN GREECE, ST PAUL’S,  ATHENS
BANK: Bank of Piraeus
IBAN: GR82 0172 0500 0050 5008 6327 479
SWIFT CODE: PIRB GRAA

(Reference “Mugs”)

(including fee except for inter-Piraeus Bank)

PAYPAL: www.paypal.me/StPaulsathens

(Reference “Mugs”)

CASH ON COLLECTION.

CLICK & COLLECT:  Collection, by appointment from St Paul’s Church, Filellinon Street, Athens, during opening hours – 10.00 – 14.00 hrs Tuesday – Saturday.  Some local Athens delivery may be possible if you are unable to come to the Church;  subject to availability.

Please make sure you include your Name, Address and Contact number on any orders and please contact Nelly Paraskevopoulou

(nelly.parask@gmail.com) for any further information and to arrange collection and delivery.

 

Click here for news of our Virtual Coffee Morning

 

Presentation

Zoom Service for Sunday 31st January 2021, Presentation of Christ at the Temple

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the assistant leads us into Confession.

The assistant leads us into a short period of silence, followed by Confession.

 Deacon:     God be gracious to us and bless us, and make your face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:              Kyrie eleison

Deacon:     May your ways be known on the earth, your saving power among the nations

                    Christe eleison

All:              Christe eleison

Deacon:     You, Lord, have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the nations:

                    Kyrie eleison

All:              Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

Bible Study Blog

Zoom Service for the 3rd Sunday after Epiphany – 24th January 2021: St Paul’s Conversion

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the assistant leads us into Confession.

 

The assistant leads us into a short period of silence, followed by Confession.

 Assistant:   God be gracious to us and bless us, and make your face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:              Kyrie eleison

Assistant:   May your ways be known on the earth, your saving power among the nations

                    Christe eleison

All:              Christe eleison

Assistant:   You, Lord, have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the nations:

                    Kyrie eleison

All:              Kyrie eleison

Priest:   May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

 READ MORE

Bible Study Blog

Zoom Service 2nd Sunday after Epiphany – 17th January 2021

 

The deacon then welcomes the people of God and the assistant leads us into Confession.

The assistant leads us into a short period of silence, followed by Confession.

 Assistant:   God be gracious to us and bless us, and make your face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:              Kyrie eleison

Assistant:   May your ways be known on the earth, your saving power among the nations

                    Christe eleison

All:              Christe eleison

Assistant:   You, Lord, have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the nations:

                    Kyrie eleison

All:              Kyrie eleison

READ MORE

christmas-background-festival-candle_GyvAXnPu (1)

The Order for Evening Prayer Daily throughout the year

This or some other passage of scripture:

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us: but if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 St. John 1.8-9

DEARLY beloved brethren, the Scripture moveth us in sundry places to acknowledge and confess our manifold sins and wickedness; and that we should not dissemble nor cloke them before the face of Almighty God our heavenly Father; but confess them with an humble, lowly, penitent, and obedient heart; to the end that we may obtain forgiveness of the same, by his infinite goodness and mercy. And although we ought at all times humbly to acknowledge our sins before God; yet ought we most chiefly so to do, when we assemble and meet together to render thanks for the great benefits that we have received at his hands, to set forth his most worthy praise, to hear his most holy Word, and to ask those things which are requisite and necessary, as well for the body as the soul. Wherefore I pray and beseech you, as many as are here present, to accompany me with a pure heart and humble voice unto the throne of the heavenly grace, saying after me:

A general Confession to be said of the whole Congregation after the Minister.

ALMIGHTY and most merciful Father, We have erred, and strayed from thy ways like lost sheep, We have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts, We have offended against thy holy laws, We have left undone those things which we ought to have done, And we have done those things which we ought not to have done, And there is no health in us: But thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us miserable offenders; Spare thou them, O God, which confess their faults, Restore thou them that are penitent, According to thy promises declared unto mankind in Christ Jesu our Lord: And grant, O most merciful Father, for his sake, That we may hereafter live a godly, righteous, and sober life, To the glory of thy holy Name. Amen.

The Absolution or Remission of sins to be pronounced by the Priest alone;

ALMIGHTY God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who desireth not the death of a sinner, but rather that he may turn from his wickedness, and live; and hath given power, and commandment, to his Ministers, to declare and pronounce to his people, being penitent, the Absolution and Remission of their sins: He pardoneth and absolveth all them that truly repent, and unfeignedly believe his holy Gospel. Wherefore let us beseech him to grant us true repentance, and his Holy Spirit, that those things may please him, which we do at this present; and that the rest of our life hereafter may be pure, and holy; so that at the last we may come to his eternal joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

READ MORE

Baptism of Christ Blog

Zoom Service for the Baptism of Christ: 10th January 2021

 

Deacon:   The grace of God has dawned upon the world through our Saviour Jesus Christ, who sacrificed himself for us to purify a people as his own.

All:            Amen. Lord have mercy.

 

The deacon leads us into a short period of silence, followed by Confession.

 

Deacon:   God be gracious to us and bless us, and make your face to shine upon us:

Kyrie eleison

All:            Kyrie eleison

Deacon:   May your ways be known on the earth, your saving power among the nations

                  Christe eleison

All:            Christe eleison

Deacon:   You, Lord, have made known your salvation, and reveal your justice in the sight of the nations:

                  Kyrie eleison

All:            Kyrie eleison

 

Priest:   May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

3 kings BLog

Zoom Service for Epiphany Sunday – 3rd January 2021

Happy New Year! Welcome to our Christmas-Epiphany worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

The Sunday worship login remains the same until the end of January. Always double check for information  on our website.    The 10.00am Epiphany Service on 6th January will be live-Zoomed from St. Paul’s. The log in for this will be on the website. Unfortunately due to new Government Restrictions, NO  congregations are allowed in Church on January 6th.

 

The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard

 

Priest:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:        and also with you.

Priest:  Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours.

All:        Glory to God in the highest heaven.

 

1 The first Noel the angel did say
was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
in fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
on a cold winter’s night that was so deep. 

Refrain:
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
born is the King of Israel. 

 

2 They looked up and saw a star
shining in the east, beyond them far;
and to the earth it gave great light,
and so it continued both day and night. [Refrain]

 

3 And by the light of that same star
three Wise Men came from country far;
to seek for a king was their intent,
and to follow the star wherever it went. [Refrain]

4 This star drew nigh to the northwest,
o’er Bethlehem it took its rest;
and there it did both stop and stay,
right over the place where Jesus lay. [Refrain]

 

5 Then entered in those Wise Men three,
full reverently upon the knee,
and offered there, in his presence,
their gold and myrrh and frankincense. [Refrain]

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Deacon:   The grace of God has dawned upon the world through our Saviour Jesus Christ, who sacrificed himself for us to purify a people as his own.

All:            Amen. Lord have mercy.

READ MORE

Christmas Blessings (1)

Christmas 1 – St. John the Evangelist (also known as John the Theologian): Sunday 27th December 2020

Happy Christmas! Welcome to our Christmas  worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

 A new Zoom login address will be necessary for the first Sunday of January onwards. See website.   

Deacon Christine will lead the worship this morning and preach. Fr. Leonard is now on leave until Jan 4th.

 

Deacon:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:           and also with you.

Deacon:   Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours.

All:           Glory to God in the highest heaven.

 

1 The first Noel the angel did say
was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
in fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
on a cold winter’s night that was so deep. 

Refrain:
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
born is the King of Israel. 

 

2 They looked up and saw a star
shining in the east, beyond them far;
and to the earth it gave great light,
and so it continued both day and night. [Refrain]

 

3 And by the light of that same star
three Wise Men came from country far;
to seek for a king was their intent,
and to follow the star wherever it went. [Refrain]

 

4 This star drew nigh to the northwest,
o’er Bethlehem it took its rest;
and there it did both stop and stay,
right over the place where Jesus lay. [Refrain]

 

5 Then entered in those Wise Men three,
full reverently upon the knee,
and offered there, in his presence,
their gold and myrrh and frankincense. [Refrain]

READ MORE

Christmas Blessings (1)

Christmas Morning Zoom Service – 25th December 2020

 

 Happy Christmas! Welcome to our Christmas morning worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 The Sunday worship login for Sunday 27th remains the same. A new address will be necessary for the first Sunday of January onwards. See website.    

 This morning there will also be a Christmas Liturgy live-Zoomed from St. Paul’s Church. Only 9 people can attend by prior booking. The link to follow this service is also on our website.

 

The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard

 

Priest:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:        and also with you.

Priest:  Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours.

All:        Glory to God in the highest heaven.

 

1 O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant!
O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem!
Come and behold him, born the King of angels; 

Refrain:
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him,
O come, let us adore him, Christ, the Lord! 

 

2 God of God, Light of Light eternal,
Lo! he abhors not the Virgin’s womb;
Son of the Father, begotten, not created, [Refrain] 

 

3 Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation,
Sing, all ye citizens of heav’n above:
“Glory to God, all glory in the highest!” [Refrain]

 

4 Yea, Lord, we greet thee, born this happy morning;
Jesus, to thee be all glory giv’n;
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing; [Refrain]

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Minister:  Christ the light of the world has come to dispel the darkness of our hearts. Therefore let us turn to the light and confess our sins.

All:            Amen. Lord have mercy.

READ MORE

Christmas Greetings Blog

Carol Service for the Eve of the Nativity of Christ: Zoom service 1800 hrs (Try to join around 17.45 hrs)

The words of all the carols are available on our website. Login addresses for other services are also on the website.

At 17.50  Christina Antoniadou will play some Christmas music before we worship.

 

Welcome           Father Leonard

Introduction     Deacon Christine

Lord’s Prayer:   Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;

                             Thy kingdom come, thy will be done; in earth as it is in heaven.

                             Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our

                             trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.

                             And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil;

                             For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory,

                             For ever and ever.  Amen.

 

Carol   1 It came upon the midnight clear,
that glorious song of old,
from angels bending near the earth
to touch their harps of gold:
“Peace on the earth, good will to men,
from heaven’s all-gracious King.”
The world in solemn stillness lay,
to hear the angels sing.

2 Still through the cloven skies they come
with peaceful wings unfurled,
and still their heavenly music floats
o’er all the weary world;
above its sad and lowly plains,
they bend on hovering wing,
and ever o’er its Babel sounds
the blessed angels sing.

3 And ye, beneath life’s crushing load,
whose forms are bending low,
who toil along the climbing way
with painful steps and slow,
look now! for glad and golden hours
come swiftly on the wing.
O rest beside the weary road,
and hear the angels sing!

4 For lo! the days are hastening on,
by prophet seen of old,
when with the ever-circling years
shall come the time foretold
when peace shall over all the earth
its ancient splendors fling,
and the whole world send back the song
which now the angels sing.

1st Reading   Luke 1 (26-38)    The Annunciation

Anthem:        Angel’s Carol (John Rutter) sung by Clary Read in Canterbury

READ MORE

Advent Candle 1

Zoom Service for the 4th Sunday in Advent – 20th December 2020

 

Welcome to our Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know

by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence. Have a candle ready to light when we get to that part of the worship.

 The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout these weeks – see website. Deacon Christine offers a Saturday morning worship option on Facebook.   

 This morning we will have a Christingle ‘workshop’ as part of our worship. Have ready an orange, a candle, some red tape or ribbon, 4 cocktail sticks and some dried fruits or small sweets.

 

The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard

 

Priest:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:        and also with you.

 

1 SING we of the blessed Mother
who received the angels word,
And obedient to his summons
bore in love the infant Lord;
Sing we of the Joys of Mary
at whose breast that child was fed
Who is Son of God eternal
and the everlasting Bread.

2 Sing we, too, of Mary’s sorrows,
of the sword that pierced her through,
When beneath the cross of Jesus
she his weight of suffering knew,
Looked upon her Son and Saviour
reigning from the awful tree,
Saw the price of man’s redemption
paid to set the sinner free.

 

3 Sing again the joys of Mary
when she saw the risen Lord,
And in prayer with Christ’s apostles,
waited on his promised word:
From on high the blazing glory
of the Spirit’s presence came,
Heavenly breath of God’s own being,
Tokened in the wind and flame.

4 Sing the chiefest joy of Mary
when on earth her work was done,
And the Lord of all creation
brought her to his heavenly home:
Virgin Mother, Mary blessed,
Raised on high and crowned with grace,
May thy Son, the world’s redeemer,
Grant us all to see his face.

READ MORE

Xmas Tree 21 Blog

Christmas Tree Appeal!

We thank you all from far and near

For helping bring some Christmas cheer

Our Christmas tree as you can see

Now has some presents on the tree

But there are still so many branches

That do not have a gift to bear

So won’t you send a little something

To fill the tree and show you care.

But don’t forget to let us know

Click on the link and feel the glow

That comes with giving this time of year

Full of love and hope and festive cheer.

http://anglicanchurchathens.gr/support-st-pauls/donations/

www.paypal.me/StPaulsathens

*Please mark your donation “Christmas Tree”.

Advent Candle 1

Zoom service for the third Sunday in Advent – 13th December 2020

Welcome to our Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know

by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence. Have a candle ready to light when we get to that part of the worship.

 

The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout these weeks – see website. Deacon Christine offers a Saturday morning worship option on Facebook. The website will inform you of any regulation changes for December.  From 1st December until 23rd December there will be a service of Night Prayer (Compline) EVERY night at 21.00. Have a candle ready to light in your home. See website for login.

 

The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard

 

Priest:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:        and also with you.

 

1 On Jordan’s bank the Baptist’s cry
announces that the Lord is nigh.
Awake and harken, for he brings
glad tidings of the King of kings!

 

2 Then cleansed be every life from sin:
make straight the way for God within,
and let us all our hearts prepare
for Christ to come and enter there.

 

3 We hail you as our Savior, Lord,
our refuge and our great reward.
Without your grace we waste away
like flowers that wither and decay.

 

4 Stretch forth your hand, our health restore,
and make us rise to fall no more.
O let your face upon us shine
and fill the world with love divine.

 

 

5 All praise to you, eternal Son,
whose advent has our freedom won,
whom with the Father we adore,
and Holy Spirit, evermore. 

READ MORE

Advent Candle 1

Zoom Worship for the 2nd Sunday of Advent -6 December 2020

Welcome to our Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know

by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout these weeks – see website. Deacon Christine offers a Saturday morning worship option on Facebook. The website will inform you of any regulation changes for December.  From 1st December until 23rd December there will be a service of Night Prayer (Compline) EVERY night at 21.00. Have a candle ready to light in your home. See website for login.

 

The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard

 

Priest:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:        and also with you.

 

1 Hark, the glad sound! The Saviour comes,
the Saviour promised long!
Let ev’ry heart prepare a throne,
and ev’ry voice a song.

 

2 He comes the pris’ners to release,
in Satan’s bondage held;
the gates of brass before Him burst,
the iron fetters yield.

 

3 He comes the broken heart to bind,
the bleeding soul to cure,
and with the treasures of His grace,
t’enrich the humbled poor.

 

4 Our glad Hosannas, Prince of Peace,
Thy welcome shall proclaim;
and heav’n’s eternal arches ring,
with Thy beloved Name.

READ MORE

Advent Candle 1

Zoom Worship for Advent Sunday – 29th November 2020

Welcome to our Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know

 by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout these weeks – see website. Deacon Christine offers a Saturday morning worship option on Facebook. The website will inform you of any regulation changes for December.  Advent Begins on 29th November. From 1st December until 23rd December there will be a service of Night Prayer (Compline) EVERY night at 21.00. Have a candle ready to light in your home. See website for login.

 The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard

Priest:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:        and also with you.

READ MORE

Light a candle for Advent

Service for Night Prayer (Compline) during Advent

The Lord almighty grant us a quiet night and a perfect end.  All  Amen.

Our help is in the name of the Lord

All  who made heaven and earth.

A period of silence for reflection on the past day may follow.

All  Most merciful God, we confess to you, before the whole company of heaven and one

      another, that we have sinned in thought, word and deed and in what we have failed

      to do. Forgive us our sins, heal us by your Spirit and raise us to new life in Christ. Amen.

 

O God, make speed to save us.

All  O Lord, make haste to help us.

All  Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning is now and shall be for ever. Amen.

READ MORE

Advent Candle 1

Advent Message – The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan, Athens. November 2020

“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like this. Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. When the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became drowsy and slept. But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise replied, ‘No! there will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’ And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went with him into the wedding banquet; and the door was shut. Later the other bridesmaids came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’ Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour. (Matthew 25, 1-13).

November 29th is Advent Sunday. We begin a new church year. The liturgical cycle has come round full circle. A new season begins, a short punchy and powerful season. A new year begins also in the CofE three year cycle of liturgical readings. From this Advent we will be on Year 2 readings.

 

Advent is a season set aside in time, to mark time – to mark time before the birth of the timeless one. It has many seasonal riches. Advent calendars are among the favourite accompaniment for this season – and now available in a full range of chocolate products behind every door! There are advent candles that burn down for each day of Advent, so long as you remember to blow it out each time! In our churches we would normally have Advent candle stands, with our 4 purple candles and a central white candle. If you are very exotic the candle for the 3rd Sunday in Advent will be pink – not for Our Lady, as some think, but for what is called ‘Gaudete Sunday’ or ‘Rejoice Sunday’ when the normal fasting and austerities of Advent were relaxed.

Another favourite feature for me are the days of Advent that lead directly into Christmas, the ‘Great O’ days. It begins with ‘O Sophia’, so not surprisingly it is called Holy Wisdom day. Each of these days addresses Christ by one of the many titles given him by scripture or the church. They are probably best preserved in the popular mind by the great Advent hymn,

O come, O come, Emmanuel!

Redeem thy captive Israel,

That into exile drear is gone

Far from the face of God’s dear Son.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel

Shall come to thee, O Israel.

READ MORE

Candle

Zoom login for Night Prayer in Advent

Fr Leonard is inviting everyone to join him in Night Prayer each evening in Advent – 1st – 23rd December, at 9.00pm – 21.0 hrs.  Please have available a candle to light during the service.  Please follow the link below for access to the Zoom service.  Please encourage friends and relations to join with us in this season of preparation and expectation.

 

Leonard Doolan is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85222931221?pwd=QmdkWW4xaytYcWlKM3VZdlp0aUxSZz09

 Meeting ID: 852 2293 1221

Passcode: 3jNShp

Topic: Night Prayer

Time: Dec 1, 2020 09:00 PM Athens

        Every day, until Dec 23, 2020, 23 occurrence(s)

        Dec 1, 2020 09:00 PM

        Dec 2, 2020 09:00 PM

        Dec 3, 2020 09:00 PM

        Dec 4, 2020 09:00 PM

        Dec 5, 2020 09:00 PM

        Dec 6, 2020 09:00 PM

        Dec 7, 2020 09:00 PM

        Dec 8, 2020 09:00 PM

        Dec 9, 2020 09:00 PM

READ MORE

Picture Trinity 17

Sunday Zoom Worship for 22nd November – Christ the King

Welcome to our Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

Until the end of November there is Wednesday evening service at 19.00. The login address for this is on the website. The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout November – see website. Deacon Christine offers a Saturday morning worship option on Facebook. The website will inform you of regulation changes for December.

Advent Begins on 29th November. From 1st December until 23rd December there will be a service of Night Prayer (Compline) EVERY night at 21.00. Have a candle ready to light in your home. See website for login.

 The preacher is Canon Colin Williams our former Archdeacon. Welcome to virtual St. Paul’s, Colin.

READ MORE

diocese_in_europe_350X230

Bishop Robert’s Christmas Message 2020

The Bishop in Europe:

The Right Reverend Dr. Robert Innes

In one of our best-loved carols, Christina Rossetti situates the birth of Jesus ‘in the bleak midwinter’. She paints a severe and freezing manger scene, with howling wind and deep snow. She represents the frosted earth and water with iron and stone.

 

From the biblical narrative, it seems unlikely that Jesus was born in the bleak mid-winter, as the shepherds would not be putting their sheep out to pasture in freezing conditions. But that does not stop us gladly enjoying Rossetti’s romantic poetic licence and reminding ourselves that the conditions of the first Christmas were hard, extraordinarily hard by modern standards.

 

Mary was a young girl giving birth a long way from home. The town of Bethlehem was crowded with strangers registering with the tax authorities of the occupying powers. Mary laid her new-born baby in an animal’s stone feeding trough. And the first visitors were not close family but rough men from the fields.

 

It is extremely difficult to recover this first Christmas. The festival has become overlaid with medieval nativity scenes and Romantic or Dickensian winter scenes. In the twentieth century, Christmas became the setting of the perfect family gathering. Most significantly, the run up to the commercial Christmas – the ‘golden quarter’ – is a now a vital part of the retail industry’s overall wellbeing so that vasts sums are expended on advertising to persuade us to acquire more goods and more debt.

 

But not in 2020. This year it will be very different. Travel bans, lockdowns and quarantines mean it will be harder and perhaps impossible to get together with our loved ones. People are poorer. High streets, at least at the time of writing, are closed in many countries. And even when they re-open, shopping isn’t quite the same when you have to physically distance and wear a mask.

 

Christmas will be simpler this year. And for many it will be sadder. As Covid-19 has progressed, more and more families have been affected by the virus and its frightening and sometimes long-term symptoms. Some of us have a relative who has been in intensive care, struggling to breathe. Many of us know someone who has very sadly lost their life, and some of us face the first Christmas without someone close to us. This year, perhaps we more intuitively sense the harshness of the manger scene, the cruelty of death, the pain of a bleak mid-winter.

 

Another well-known – and much older – carol speaks to us about ‘tidings of comfort and joy’. In 2020 we need to hear these tidings. For Christmas is at heart the story of a God who draws near to us in Jesus, sharing the sorrows and joys of human experience. In the mystery of the incarnation, the eternal God wonderfully condescends to be born as a human baby, in the roughest conditions. He is ‘Immanuel’ – the God who is with us.

 

Whatever conditions you face this Christmas, I hope you will be able to reach out and find the God who is with us. I hope you will take comfort from the presence of God with you, and perhaps also find opportunity to comfort others.

 

‘God rest you merry’ in modern English means ‘may God grant you peace and happiness’. The unknown author continued:

 

‘Let nothing you dismay

for Jesus Christ our Saviour was born on Christmas Day.

To save us all from Satan’s power

when we had gone astray

Which brings tidings of comfort and joy.’

 

I wish each of you and your families comfort and joy as we approach this Christmas season.

Robert Signature

 

+Robert Gibraltar in Europe

Comfort & Joy

I am the way

Sunday Zoom Worship for November

Welcome to our Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 Until the end of November there is Wednesday evening service at 19.00. The login address for this is on the website. The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout November – see website. Deacon Christine offers a Saturday morning worship option on Facebook.

 Advent Begins on 29th November. From 1st December until 23rd December there will be a service of Night Prayer (Compline) EVERY night at 21.00. Have a candle ready to light in your home. See website for login.

 The preacher on 15th November is Deacon Christine, and on 22nd November Canon Colin Williams our former Archdeacon

READ MORE

I am the way

Evening Worship – Wednesdays at 19.00hrs (7.00pm) –

A short service for the early evening.

Please join us on Zoom – login details on the website – or say this at home.

 

Together we say:

 

1    How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts!  ♦

My soul has a desire and longing to enter the courts of the Lord;

my heart and my flesh rejoice in the living God.

2    The sparrow has found her a house and the swallow a nest where she may lay her young:  ♦ at your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.

3    Blessed are they who dwell in your house:  ♦ they will always be praising you. [R]

4    Blessed are those whose strength is in you,  ♦ in whose heart are the highways to Zion,

5    Who going through the barren valley find there a spring,  ♦and the early rains will clothe it with blessing.

6    They will go from strength to strength  ♦ and appear before God in Zion. [R]

7    O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer;  ♦ listen, O God of Jacob.

8    Behold our defender, O God,  ♦ and look upon the face of your anointed.

9    For one day in your courts  ♦ is better than a thousand. [R]

10  I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God  ♦than dwell in the tents of ungodliness.

11  For the Lord God is both sun and shield; he will give grace and glory;  ♦no good thing shall the Lord withhold from those who walk with integrity.

12  O Lord God of hosts,  ♦ blessed are those who put their trust in you.

Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning is now

and shall be for ever. Amen.

READ MORE

Bible STudies

Pastoral Letter 4 From Fr Leonard

Dear Friends,

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

In his letter to the church community in Rome St. Paul says, ‘For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.’ (Romans 8, 38-39).

I would add to this list Covid-19, the pandemic that has the world in its vice-like grip in increasing numbers yet again. This virus will not separate us from the love of God, nor in our life in the Holy Spirit will it separate us from each other. Our strength together is more than just our meeting together, though being together gathered around the holy table, side by side, is our royal calling as the baptized holy people of God. We pray for that day when this is possible again.

In response to the current developments of the virus the Government has issued new restrictions for places of worship. These restrictions are in place first and foremost to keep us safe. This is how it affects our own situation.

St. Paul’s will be closed for public worship during this period of lockdown. Sunday services will continue on Zoom either from my apartment or occasionally from St. Paul’s Church.

You can access Zoom by going to the St. Paul’s Anglican Church Athens website where you will find the link. It will be the same link each week. In addition Deacon Christine and I will offer additional worship and spiritual resources for you. Chris will offer something weekly on Facebook. Please contact her directly about this. I will make arrangements for a mid-week evening service on Zoom. It will be 4 Wednesdays in November beginning at 19.00 and I will build in time for a chat afterwards. The link for this will be on our website also. The order of service for this will also be on the website.

We will work on ways to keep the monthly raffle draw going.

As we approach the time when the legendary Christmas Bazaar, a great social occasion as well as fund-raiser, would normally be taking place we are all once again reminded of the need to address the loss of income to St. Paul’s. Please use internet banking for your donation, if you possibly can. The details are on our website. Contact me if you have any questions about financial giving to St. Paul’s. If you cannot use the bank, please put aside your normal weekly offering and bring it with you when you next come to St. Paul’s, whenever that might be.

Stay safe and well, and remain thankful to God for his blessing of love, from which nothing can separate us.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all. Amen.

Father Leonard

Skipton-remembrance poppies

A Service for Remembrance Sunday – 8 November 2020

Welcome to our Zoom service, especially on this Remembrance Sunday. A particular welcome to Her Excellency Kate Smith CMG, British Ambassador, and Captain Tim Ferns, Defence Attache. This Worship is led by The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan, Senior Chaplain, who is also the preacher. The Noon ceremony at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery at Alimos is cancelled.

 

Please make sure you unmute if you are to speak during the service.

Christina will play some music before we begin

Priest:      Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Priest:      O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Priest:      Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

 

Fr. Leonard then welcomes people informally and then prays:

Ever living God, we remember those whom you have gathered from the storm of war into the peace of your presence; may that same peace calm our fears, bring justice to all peoples, and establish harmony among the nations, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

READ MORE

Live Zoom Service for Sunday Worship

New Covid 19 restrictions recently announced means that unfortunately St Paul’s has to close its doors once more to public worship.

This Sunday’s Remembrance Day services both at the Church and at Alimos Cemetery are cancelled, but there will be a Zoom Service broadcast live from the Vicarage.

Services for the next eight weeks will also be Zoomed either from the Vicarage or the Church.  Keep checking the website and our Facebook Page for further information.

Please keep checking the website and Facebook Pages for further updates.

The login details for the Zoom Service are given below:-

READ MORE

All Saints

Feast of All Saints – 1st November 2020

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s. If you are visiting, or here  for the first time. Due to Covid restrictions we must wear masks at all times in church and garden.

Check our website for information regarding future weeks.

 

Presiding Priest & Preacher: The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan  

Deacon: The Revd. Deacon Christine Saccali

 

Entrance Hymn or Organ
Priest:            In the name of the Father, and of the Son,

and of the Holy Spirit.

All:                  Amen.                                                                                                                      

 

Priest:            The Lord be with you

All:                  And also with you

 

Words by Jonny Baker, taken from the book: ‘The Hospitality of God’ by Michael Perham

Deacon:        All are invited, all are included

All are made welcome, none are excluded

This is the table of Christ

Come if you’re young, come if you’re old

Come if you’re broken, come if you’re whole

Come if you’re weary of the trials of life

This is the table of Christ.

 

Introduction The priest welcomes everyone and introduces the service

 

Confession

There will be a short moment of silence as we bring to mind our wrongdoings

 

Deacon:        Lord, you are gracious and compassionate:

Lord, have mercy.

All:                  Lord, have mercy.

Deacon:        You are loving to all and your mercy is over all your creation:

Christ, have mercy.

All:                  Christ, have mercy.

Deacon:        Your faithful servants bless your name and speak of your glory:

Lord, have mercy.

All:                  Lord, have mercy.

 Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all those who are truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness and keep you in life eternal; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen. AMEN.

 Collect

The Priest then prays the collect for the day

God of holiness, your glory is proclaimed in every age: as we rejoice in the faith of your saints, inspire us to follow their example with boldness and joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

Cinnamon Sticks C

Christmas Online Bazaar

Due to current Covid restrictions, and our precarious financial situation, we will not be able to hold a Christmas Bazaar this year – the first time in over 60 years.  HOWEVER, our beautiful Christmas Decorations, and Sweets will be on sale online and at the Church after the services.  Browse through our gallery of decorations here.  You can purchase them online through Paypal on our Donations page and collect them in a couple of weeks at the Church.  Don’t forget to indicate which item you are purchasing!

 

Candles cost  €8.00  and come gift wrapped and bagged.  Cinnamon Stick decorations cost €7.00.

 

 

St Paul's Logo f.i.

Last Sunday after Trinity (Bible Sunday) 25th October 2020

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Welcome if you are joining us on Zoom. Please take this sheet away with you to use during the week. Our Harvest celebration has been postponed. The presiding priest and preacher is The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan. The deacon is the Revd. Christine Saccali. Covid 19 restrictions apply in the church AND in the garden.

 

Entrance The organ will play

Priest:     In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen

The Lord be with you.

All:          and also with you

READ MORE

Picture Trinity 17

St. Luke the Evangelist (18th October 2020)

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens.   St. Luke is associating with the healing ministry. Your collection should be placed in the envelope provided and placed in one of the offering bags as you leave. There are individualized worksheets for children – please ask. 

The presiding priest is Fr. Leonard. The deacon and preacher is Deacon Chris Saccali.

 

Entrance Hymn:  32

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Deacon: The saints were faithful unto death and now dwell in the heavenly kingdom for ever. As we celebrate their joy, let us bring to the Lord our sins and weaknesses, and ask for his mercy.

 Silence and stillness follows

 Deacon: The saints were faithful unto death and now dwell in the heavenly kingdom for ever. As we celebrate their joy, let us bring to the Lord our sins and weaknesses, and ask for his mercy.

 Deacon:  In the wilderness we find your grace: you love us with an everlasting love.

                 Kyrie eleison

All:           Kyrie eleison

Deacon:  There is none but you to uphold our cause; our sin cries out and our guilt is great.

                 Christe eleison

All:           Christe eleison

Deacon:   Heal us , O Lord, and we shall be healed; restore us and we shall know your joy

                  Kyrie eleison.

 All:           Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all those  who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest and peace to his people on earth.

Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father,

we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.

Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God,

you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us;

you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer.

For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,

you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit,

in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day)

Almighty God, you called Luke the physician, whose praise is in the gospel, to be an evangelist and physician of the soul; by the grace of the Spirit and through the wholesome medicine of the gospel, give your Church the same love and power to heal; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

READ MORE

Trinity 18

18th Sunday after Trinity October 11th 2020

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens. Masks must be worn at all times in the church and in the garden. We must keep a 1.5metre distance from each other. People from the same household can sit normally together. One of the sidespeople will direct you forward for Holy Communion. Your collection should be placed in the envelope provided and placed in one of the offering bags as you leave. There are individualized worksheets for children – please ask. There is coffee after the Liturgy (€1,00 to help church funds!) Trevor and Lynn will be Admitted as Wardens today. The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard. The Deacon is Deacon Chris Saccali.

 

Entrance Hymn   238

Priest:   In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

     All:         Amen

Priest:   The Lord be with you

     All:         And also with you

 

The priest then informally welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

(A short period of stillness and silence)

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: May Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon us, pardon and deliver us from all your sins, confirm and strengthen us in all goodness, and keep us in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Gloria: Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen. AMEN.
READ MORE

Bible Study Blog

PASTORAL LETTER 3 – 6TH OCTOBER 2020

Dear Friends at St. Paul’s

This is the third Pastoral Letter I have issued since the lockdowns began back in March 2020. This time some of you will receive it as a voice recording – and my apologies if you receive it in a printed version also.

With Greek Government Covid-19 restrictions in place, we have been blessed compared to most other countries in that we have been permitted to hold public worship since May 17th. After a cautious start we have slowly built up our worship experience again – I am stressing familiarity rather than normality, as we are far from what we knew and loved up until the beginning of March this year.

As I reported before, Zoom has become a familiar feature in the worshipping, praying, and studying life of many in our congregation and with our wider and much cherished group of friends and supporters. Even after we could begin to worship publicly again, we continued to have Zoom Sunday services until the end of June, as well as weekly Evening Prayer, and a weekly bible study. These possibilities have been warmly welcomed and appreciated. I am delighted to say that since the 4th October (St. Francis Day) we can now ‘live Zoom’ our Liturgy from St. Paul’s. The sound is not perfect – we have to negotiate a complex mix of microphones, organ playing and congregational responses and gentle singing. However it is a wonderful way of keeping in touch with the Sunday worship.

 

These weeks and months of 2020 have been challenging. We are all in one way or another feeling spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically ‘abused’ by this potent virus. It is stretching us and billions of others to their limits, and we are nowhere near resolving its capricious impact on human life. Many are in isolation – either by choice or by imposition. Over a million are sick with the virus, and hundreds of thousands have died.  Many are fearful. Although we have every right to have human responses to this pandemic, as Christians we have to reflect also on the words of Christ, spoken when his fishermen disciples were terrified in the eye of a storm, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.’ (Matthew 14, 27). Sunday 18h October is the Feast of St. Luke – we will include the ‘anointing with oil’ for healing of body, mind and soul, within our Sunday Liturgy.

READ MORE

Clipart-Email-11451803 Zoom

Zoom Service on Sundays

Leonard Doolan is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Please sign in by 10.00 or you may not be admitted!

Time: Oct 4, 2020 10:00 AM Athens

Every week on Sun, until Dec 27, 2020, 13 occurrence(s)

Oct 4, 2020 10:00 AM

Oct 11, 2020 10:00 AM

Oct 18, 2020 10:00 AM

Oct 25, 2020 10:00 AM

Nov 1, 2020 10:00 AM

Nov 8, 2020 10:00 AM

Nov 15, 2020 10:00 AM

Nov 22, 2020 10:00 AM

Nov 29, 2020 10:00 AM

Dec 6, 2020 10:00 AM

Dec 13, 2020 10:00 AM

Dec 20, 2020 10:00 AM

Dec 27, 2020 10:00 AM

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.

Weekly: https://us02web.zoom.us/…/tZIscuqgqjIsG9DswVFsTAMHpJth…/ics…

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86153849614…

Meeting ID: 861 5384 9614

Passcode: Q9AeHf

One tap mobile

+13126266799,,86153849614#,,,,,,0#,,246472# US (Chicago)

+13462487799,,86153849614#,,,,,,0#,,246472# US (Houston)

Dial by your location

+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)

+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)

Meeting ID: 861 5384 9614

Passcode: 246472

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbqSL3VIJl

 

 

 

St Francis

Feast of St. Francis of Assisi (October 4th 2020) Service to give thanks for our pets.

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time. On the Feast Day of St. Francis it is good to give thanks to God for the love, affection and companionship so many people receive from their pets. At this short service YOU are responsible for the best control of your own pet, and for any cleaning up that may be required. Don’t worry about pet noises! 

There is a Thanksgiving Envelope for everyone for your church collection today, and 20% of your donation will go to an animal charity in Athens. 

We are still under Government COVID 19 restrictions. Masks must be worn at all times in the church and in the garden we must keep a 1.5metre distance from each other OR wear a mask. People from the same household can sit normally together.

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard Doolan, the Senior Anglican Priest in Greece.

 

Entrance Hymn:  237  Morning has broken

 

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1,1)

And God saw everything that he had made, and behold it was very good.  (Genesis 1,31)

O Lord, you save both humans and animals  (Psalm 36,6)

The righteous care for their animals, but the wicked are cruel (Proverbs 12,10)

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

Priest: Holy creator, we come together to thank you for the fellowship of other creatures, to celebrate their God-given lives, and to pray for compassionate hearts so we may care for them and for all your creation. But, first of all, we pray for your forgiveness because of our human part in sins of thoughtlessness and cruelty towards animal life.  There will be a short period of silence.

 

All:  Almighty God you have given us temporary lordship of your beautiful creation; but we have misused your power, turned away from our responsibility and marred your image in us.

Forgive us, true Lord, especially for our callousness and cruelty to animals. Help us to follow the way of your Son Jesus Christ, who expressed power in humility and lordship in loving service. Enable us, by your Spirit, to walk in newness of life, healing injury, avoiding wrong and making peace with all your creatures.

Priest:   God of everlasting love, who is eternally forgiving; pardon and restore us, and make us one with you in your creation.

All:        Amen

Priest:   Let us rejoice with the Creator at the wonderful creation around us

All:        Let us sing to the Lord a new song: a song of all the creatures of the earth

Priest:   Let us rejoice in the goodness of God shown in the beauty of little things

All:        Let us marvel at the little creatures who are innocent in God’s sight

Priest:   Let us sing to the Lord a new song

All:        A song of all the creatures of the earth

 

Hymn:  263   All creatures of our God and King  (omit verses 5 & 6)

READ MORE

Picture Trinity 17

17th Sunday after Trinity (Oct 4th Feast Of St. Francis of Assisi)

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens. Masks must be worn at all times in the church and in the garden. We must keep a 1.5metre distance from each other. People from the same household can sit normally together. One of the sidespeople will direct you forward for Holy Communion. Your collection should be placed in the envelope provided and placed in one of the offering bags as you leave. There are individualized worksheets for children – please ask. There is coffee after the Liturgy (€1,00 to help church funds!)  

 The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard.

 

Entrance Hymn:  381

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

Silence and stillness follows

 

Priest:  Consider the birds of the air; they do not sow or gather into barns, yet your

heavenly Father feeds them. Kyrie eleison

All:        Kyrie eleison

Priest:   Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they do not toil or spin, yet even

Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.  Christe eleison

All:         Christe eleison

Priest:   How little faith we have. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.

               Kyrie eleison.

 All:        Kyrie eleison

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all those  who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest and peace to his people on earth.

Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father,

we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.

Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God,

you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us;

you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer.

For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,

you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit,

in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day)

O God, you ever delight to reveal yourself to the child-like and lowly of heart: grant that, following the example of the blessèd Francis, we may count the wisdom of this world as foolishness
and know only Jesus Christ and him crucified, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.Amen.

READ MORE

12308003_171512473200609_7163125448344572824_o

APPEAL FOR DONATIONS FROM FR LEONARD DOOLAN – CHAPLAIN OF ST PAUL’S.

These have been challenging times for all of us and particularly so for organisations such as ourselves who are self-financing and have no income save from the generosity of those who worship here.  During Lockdown we had to lock our doors – our services were suspended, and all the concerts were cancelled – 90% of our income has gone.   We are open again but with restrictions. So our situation is pretty dismal.

If you feel you could support us you can send us a donation either in Greece or the UK.

Our online banking details are on our website – Click here to take you to our Donations page . If you are a UK Taxpayer you will find details there, of how to increase the worth of your donation to the Chaplaincy with no extra cost to yourself through “Gift Aid”.

There has been an Anglican presence in Greece since 1843, but like any organisation we need funds to survive and ensure our future.

Thank you in advance for your generosity and God Bless you.

16th Sunday after Trinity – 27th September 2020

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens. Mmasks must be worn at all times in the church and in the garden we must keep a 1.5metre distance from each other OR wear a mask. People from the same household can sit normally together. One of the sidespeople will direct you forward for Holy Communion. Your collection should be placed in the envelope provided and placed in one of the offering bags as you leave. There are individualized worksheets for children – please ask. There is coffee after the Liturgy (€1,00 to help church funds!)

The presiding priest is Fr. Leonard. The preacher is Deacon Christine.

 

Entrance Hymn:  336

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence and stillness follows

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all those  who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest and peace to his people on earth.

Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father,

we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.

Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God,

you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us;

you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer.

For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,

you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit,

in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen.

READ MORE

Bread of Life

15th Sunday after Trinity – 20th September 2020

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens. Masks must be worn at all times in the church and in the garden we must keep a 1.5metre distance from each other OR wear a mask. People from the same household can sit normally together. One of the sidespeople will direct you forward for Holy Communion. Your collection should be placed in the envelope provided and placed in one of the offering bags as you leave. There are individualized worksheets for children – please ask. There is coffee after the Liturgy (€1,00 to help church funds!)

 

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard. The deacon is Deacon Christine Saccali.

 

Entrance Hymn:  234 (2nd tune)

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence and stillness follows

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all those  who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest and peace to his people on earth.

Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father,

we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.

Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God,

you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us;

you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer.

For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,

you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit,

in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Lord God, defend your Church from all false teaching and give to your people knowledge of your truth, that we may enjoy eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Reading                                                                                        Philippians 1, 21-end

It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that by my speaking with all boldness, Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which I prefer. I am hard pressed between the two: my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. Since I am convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in faith, so that I may share abundantly in your boasting in Christ Jesus when I come to you again.

 Reader:  This is the word of the Lord

All:          Thanks be to God

READ MORE

Bible Study Blog

Fr Leonards Sermons, virtual and viral, for Lent, Holy Week & Easter 2020

The Anglican Church in Greece (Church of England)

The Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan

Karneadou 6, Athens 10675 Greece

Tel (0030) 210 721 4906                                                    August 2020

 

During the worst weeks of the COVID-19 lockdown thousands of faithful priests and pastors were preparing to preach Sunday by Sunday, or day by day, seeking to keep Christ’s people engaged with the mysteries of the holy season of Lent, Holy Week, and the ‘Great Weeks’ of Easter.

These were challenging days – not yet behind us by any means – for preachers to address the scriptures set for this season, but at the same time to acknowledge the realities of the global pandemic that prevented most, if not all social and human public activity, including worship. Suddenly we had to be creative and make use of different media platforms in our attempts to ‘keep together in isolation’.

In Athens I did my best to wrestle with new technology that took me way beyond my normal comfort zone ‘blending’ the ancient art of preaching with the contemporary possibilities of Zoom. I have to admit that it was not like oil and water, as my initial skepticism might have concluded. The blend of printed copies of sermons sent by email, texts placed on the website, pre-recorded versions emailed out, ‘virtually’ live preaching on Zoom, and then sermons delivered on Zoom and in St. Paul’s church respecting local restrictions, all of these somehow seem to have worked, with considerable appreciation from our congregation and ‘para’ congregation.

I was delightfully encouraged when a couple of people suggested that my sermons prepared over this period should be brought together and published in a small booklet. That initial suggestion, much to my surprise, has come about.

There is no delusion in publishing these sermons, by the way. They are not the best sermons you will ever read, and so much could have been better said, and has been, in the hands of other fine preachers. However, I think the interest lies in the nature of the background of the sermons. Never before have we preached in Lent, Holy Week and Easter with a pandemic raging away, devastating so many lives and disrupting global and local economies; shutting down work patterns and adding to our already existing anxieties in the relationship between humanity and the Creation.

This little booklet of sermons may have some lasting interest simply because in the future someone might be interested to observe how one preacher went about his business during the COVID-19 experience.

To order a copy email: anglican@otenet.gr  Cost €5,00 (all proceeds to St. Paul’s Church)  p&p  €2.50 within Greece; €5,00 outside Greece.

Holy Cross

Holy Cross Sunday (September 13th 2020)

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens. We will have some gentle singing this morning – masks must be worn at all times in the church and in the garden and we must attempt to keep 1.5m distance. People from the same household can sit normally together. One of the sidespeople will direct you forward for Holy Communion. Your collection should be placed in the envelope provided and placed in one of the offering bags as you leave. There is coffee again in the garden after the Liturgy – masks and social distancing please! Coffee is €1,00 (to help church finances)

 

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard.

 

Entrance Hymn:  the organ will play two verses of hymn 237

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

Silence and stillness follows

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all those  who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest and peace to his people on earth.

Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father,

we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.

Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God,

you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us;

you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer.

For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,

you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit,

in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Almighty God, who in the passion of your blessed Son made an instrument of painful death to be for us the means of life and peace; grant us so to glory in the cross of Christ that we gladly suffer for his sake; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one god, now and for ever. Amen.

 

Reading                                                                                        Philippians 2, 6-11

Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself  and became obedient to the point of death— even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

 

Reader:  This is the word of the Lord

All:          Thanks be to God

 

Gospel Hymn: The organ will play a verse of hymn 92  

Gospel Reading        (turn towards the gospel book)

Priest:       Alleluia! Alleluia! The word of the Lord endures for ever. The word of the Lord

is good news announced to you.  Alleluia!

All (said): Alleluia            

Priest:       The Lord be with you

All:             and also with you

Priest:       Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. John (John 3, 13-17)

All:             Glory to you, O Lord  

No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. “Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

At the end of the Gospel

Priest:      This is the gospel of the Lord

All:            Praise to you, O Christ. 

The organ will play a well known Alleluia tune

 

Sermon  (Please sit)  Most sermons are available on the website in print and pre-recorded

 

Creed   (Please stand)  We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father: through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.  Amen.

 

Intercessions: Lord in your mercy: hear our prayer  (Magdalen Imarghiagbe)

 

Peace:  Blessed are the peacemakers: they shall be called children of God. We meet in the name of Christ and share his peace. The peace of the Lord be always with you.

All:        And also with you.

We are currently not shaking hands with ours neighbours, but please greet each other.

 

(The bread and wine, signs of our work and life, are brought forward to the altar and received with the words)

 

The organ will play three verses of hymn 295

 

Priest:  Wise and gracious God, you spread a table before us; nourish your people with the word of life and the bread of heaven.

All:       Amen.

 

The Great Thanksgiving Prayer    ( Please remain standing for this- in the responses please sing gently while keeping your mask on)

Priest:  The Lord be with you

All:        and also with you

Priest:  Lift up your hearts

All:       We lift them to the Lord

Priest:  Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

All:        It is right to give thanks and praise

Priest:  It is indeed right and good, our duty and our joy, always and everywhere to give you thanks, holy Father, almighty and eternal God, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Today we celebrate with songs of praise the cross, the victory-sign of Christ. Once through the fruit of the forbidden tree we fell, now through this tree our Saviour cancels all our sin. An instrument of shameful death has become for Christ a throne of glory. The power of the life-giving cross reveals the judgement that has come upon the world and the triumph of Christ crucified. And so, with choirs of angels and with all the heavenly host, we proclaim your glory and join their unending hymn of praise:

All: (sing gently) Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

 

Priest: How wonderful the work of your hands, O Lord! As a mother tenderly gathers her children you embraced a people as your own. When they turned away and rebelled your love remained steadfast.  From them you raised up Jesus our Saviour, born of Mary, to be the living bread, in whom all our hungers are satisfied.  He offered his life for sinners and with a love stronger than death he opened wide his arms on the cross. On the night before he died, he came to supper with his friends, and taking bread, he gave you thanks. He broke it and gave it to them, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you, do this in remembrance of me.  At the end of supper, taking the cup of wine, he gave you thanks, and said: Drink this, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.

Priest:     Christ is the bread of life

All:           When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim your death, Lord Jesus,

                 until you come in glory.

Priest: Father, we plead with confidence his sacrifice made once for all on the cross: we remember his dying and rising in glory, and we rejoice that he prays for us at your right hand. Pour out your Holy Spirit as we bring before you these gifts of your creation; may they be for us the body and blood of your dear Son. As we eat and drink these holy things in your presence, form us in the likeness of Christ, and build us into a living temple to your glory. Remember Lord your Church in every land. Reveal her unity, guard her faith, and preserve her in peace with our Bishop Robert and all the congregations of this diocese; bring your people at the last with the Holy Mother of God, Paul, and all the saints to the vision of that eternal splendour for which you have created us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, by whom and with whom and in whom, with all who stand before you earth and heaven, we worship you in songs of everlasting praise;

All:    Blessing and honour and glory and power be yours for ever and ever. Amen.

 

The Lord’s Prayer:  (to be prayed in your own language)

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Priest: We break this bread to share in the body of the risen Christ.

All:       Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.

 

Sung:   (sung gently)

             Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us

             Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us

             Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world, grant us peace

 

Invitation to Communion

Priest:  Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Happy are those

who are called to his supper.

All:       Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word and I shall be healed

All baptized Christians may come forward to receive the body of Christ. If you wish you may receive a blessing. Please let the Sides-people guide you forward.  

 

Communion Hymn:  the organ will play hymn 307

 

Post Communion Prayer:  Let us pray     (please stand)

Faithful God, whose Son bore our sins in his body on the tree and gave us this sacrament to show forth his death until he comes: give us grace to glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, for he is our salvation, our life and our hope, who reigns as Lord, now and forever. Amen.

All: Almighty God, we thank you for feeding us with the body and blood of your Son Jesus Christ. Through him we offer you our souls and bodies to be a living sacrifice. Send us out in the power of your Spirit to live and work to your praise and glory.  Amen.

 

Blessing and Dismissal

Priest:        Go in peace to love and serve the Lord

All:              In the name of Christ. Amen.

 

Next Week’s Readings: Trinity 15    Philippians 1, 21-end; Matthew 20, 1-16

 

 

Fr. Leonard’s usual Day Off – Monday  (in emergencies contact Deacon Christine)

Home tel :  210 72 14 906;  email anglican@otenet.gr

Deacon Chris: 22950 53164: Day Off – Friday.

Swedish Church: contact Fr. Bjorn on  694 607 2428

For all concert bookings and enquiries:  6937257578 and see booking form on website.

 

The Anglican Church in Greece (including St. Paul’s) is self- financing, and receives no income other than from the generosity of those who worship here. We are a legal body and we pay tax. Our tax number is 997073090. If you wish to donate direct to our bank (IBAN) the account with Piraeus Bank is:  The Anglican Church in Greece, St. Paul’s Athens  GR 820172 0500 0050 5008 6327 479  Swift code is  PIRB GRAA income other than from the generosity of those who worship here.

 

  1. Notices : The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be on Sunday 20th Nomination forms for Council Membership and Church Wardens will be available soon.
  2. Easter – Virtual and Viral A book of sermons preached by Fr. Leonard during the first weeks of lockdown. Cost €5,00 – all income from sales will go to St. Paul’s Church.
  3. Church Council will meet on Saturday 12th at 10.30am in St. Paul’s.
  4. Community Connect coffee Morning – this Wednesday at 11.00-12.30
  5. If you feel competent to ‘run’ Zoom in church so we can livestream our services, please speak with Fr. Leonard this morning. 
  6. FUNDRAISING AND SPECIAL SERVICES FOR AUTUMN/WINTER 2020

  7. Saturday 26th September – there will be a church garden Autumn Sale from 10.00-15.00 hours. (Planning Meeting after Liturgy on 13th)
  8. Sunday 4th October – Feast of St. Francis. At noon there will be a Blessing of Pets service in St. Paul’s. Gift envelopes will be printed up and available for donations. 10% of the collection will go to an animal charity.

    Saturday 10th October – ‘Gift Day’ from 11.00-13.00hrs Fr. Leonard will be at the church to receive donations from individuals in thanksgiving for St. Paul’s Church. Envelopes will be available and a ‘Giving Blessing’ will be offered.

    Christmas Bazaar – 22nd November. We must assume it will go ahead as normal. There will be an open meeting for stall holders/interested individuals on Saturday 17th October at 11.00 in St. Paul’s. We need a co-ordinator/s.

    Quiz Nights – Jean Mertzenakis has arranged three nights before Christmas. Sept 11th(cancelled), Oct 16th, Nov 13th, Dec 4th.

    Community Connect Coffee Mornings: Sept 9th (Church Garden) Oct 14th, Nov 11th venue to be confirmed (Other Coffee Mornings – the last Sunday of each month in the Church garden)

    Wine Tasting- Anne Kokotos has agreed an Autumn wine tasting. The date is to be confirmed and we hope it will be in the Garden of the British Residence

    Christmas Carol Singalong – 2 December dates this year, Dec 6th and 20th both at 18.30.

 

Bread of Life

13th Sunday after Trinity (September 6th 2020)

St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. We will have some gentle singing this morning – masks must be worn at all times in the church and in the garden, we must keep a 1.5metre distance from each other OR wear a mask. People from the same household can sit normally together. One of the sidespeople will direct you forward for Holy Communion. Your collection should be placed in the envelope provided and placed in one of the offering bags as you leave. We will start having coffee after the Liturgy soon.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard. The deacon is Deacon Christine Saccali.

 

Entrance Hymn:  the organ will play two verses of hymn 265

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence and stillness follows

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all those  who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest and peace to his people on earth.

Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father,

we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.

Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God,

you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us;

you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer.

For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,

you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit,

in the glory of God, the glory of God the Father. Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Almighty God, you search us and know us: may we rely on you in strength and rest on you in weakness, now and all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

 

Reading                                                                                        Romans 13, 8-end

Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not covet”; and any other commandment, are summed up in this word, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law. 11 Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; 12 the night is far gone, the day is near. Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; 13 let us live honorably as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarreling and jealousy. 14 Instead, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

 

Reader:  This is the word of the Lord

All:          Thanks be to God

 

Gospel Hymn: The organ will play a verse of hymn  334  

 

Gospel Reading        (turn towards the gospel book)

Priest:       Alleluia! Alleluia! The word of the Lord endures for ever. The word of the Lord

is  good news announced to you.  Alleluia!

All (said): Alleluia            

Deacon:   The Lord be with you

All:             and also with you

Deacon:    Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Matthew (Mt. 18, 15-20)

All:             Glory to you, O Lord

15 “If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. 16 But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. 17 If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. 18 Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19 Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”

 

At the end of the Gospel

Deacon:   This is the gospel of the Lord

All:            Praise to you, O Christ. 

The organ will play a well known Alleluia tune

 

Sermon  (Please sit)  Most sermons are available on the website

 

Creed   (Please stand)  We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father: through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.  Amen.

 

Intercessions:  (please sit or kneel)   Lord in your mercy: hear our prayer  (Lynn Stavrou)

 

Peace:  Blessed are the peacemakers: they shall be called children of God. We meet in the name of Christ and share his peace. The peace of the Lord be always with you.

All:        And also with you.

We are currently not shaking hands with ours neighbours, but please greet each other.

 

(The bread and wine, signs of our work and life, are brought forward to the altar and received with the words)

 

The organ will play three verses of hymn 495

 

Priest:  Wise and gracious God, you spread a table before us; nourish your people with the word of life and the bread of heaven.

All:       Amen.

 

The Great Thanksgiving Prayer    ( Please remain standing for this- in the responses please sing gently while keeping your mask on)

Priest:  The Lord be with you

All:        and also with you

Priest:  Lift up your hearts

All:       We lift them to the Lord

Priest:  Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

All:        It is right to give thanks and praise

Priest:  Blessed are you, Lord God our light and our salvation…

… we may find a voice to sing your praise:

All: (sing gently) Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

 

Priest: How wonderful the work of your hands, O Lord! As a mother tenderly gathers her children you embraced a people as your own. When they turned away and rebelled your love remained steadfast.  From them you raised up Jesus our Saviour, born of Mary, to be the living bread, in whom all our hungers are satisfied.  He offered his life for sinners and with a love stronger than death he opened wide his arms on the cross. On the night before he died, he came to supper with his friends, and taking bread, he gave you thanks. He broke it and gave it to them, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you, do this in remembrance of me.

 

At the end of supper, taking the cup of wine, he gave you thanks, and said: Drink this, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.

Deacon:  Christ is the bread of life

All:           When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim your death, Lord Jesus,

                 until you come in glory.

Priest: Father, we plead with confidence his sacrifice made once for all on the cross: we remember his dying and rising in glory, and we rejoice that he prays for us at your right hand. Pour out your Holy Spirit as we bring before you these gifts of your creation; may they be for us the body and blood of your dear Son. As we eat and drink these holy things in your presence, form us in the likeness of Christ, and build us into a living temple to your glory. Remember Lord your Church in every land. Reveal her unity, guard her faith, and preserve her in peace with our Bishop Robert and all the congregations of this diocese; bring your people at the last with the Holy Mother of God, Paul, and all the saints to the vision of that eternal splendour for which you have created us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, by whom and with whom and in whom, with all who stand before you earth and heaven, we worship you in songs of everlasting praise;

All: Blessing and honour and glory and power be yours for ever and ever. Amen.

 

The Lord’s Prayer:  (to be prayed in your own language)

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Priest: We break this bread to share in the body of the risen Christ.

All:       Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.

 

Sung:   (sung gently)

             Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us

             Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us

             Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world, grant us peace

 

Invitation to Communion

Priest:  Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Happy are those

who are called to his supper.

All:       Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word and I shall be healed

All baptized Christians may come forward to receive the body of Christ. If you wish you may receive a blessing. Please let the Sides-people guide you forward.  

 

Communion Hymn:  the organ will play 286

 

Post Communion Prayer:  Let us pray     (please stand)

God our creator, you feed your children with the true manna, the living bread from heaven: let this holy food sustain us through our earthly pilgrimage until we come to that place where hunger and thirst are no more; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

All: Almighty God, we thank you for feeding us with the body and blood of your Son Jesus Christ. Through him we offer you our souls and bodies to be a living sacrifice. Send us out in the power of your Spirit to live and work to your praise and glory.  Amen.

 

Blessing and Dismissal

Deacon:     Go in peace to love and serve the Lord

All:              In the name of Christ. Amen.

 

Next Week’s Readings: Holy Cross Sunday: Philippians 2, 6-11; John 3, 13-17

 

 

Fr. Leonard’s usual Day Off – Monday  (in emergencies contact Deacon Christine)

Home tel :  210 72 14 906;  email anglican@otenet.gr

Deacon Chris: 22950 53164: Day Off – Friday.

Swedish Church: contact Fr. Bjorn on  694 607 2428

For all concert bookings and enquiries:  6937257578 and see booking form on website.

 

The Anglican Church in Greece (including St. Paul’s) is self- financing, and receives no income other than from the generosity of those who worship here. We are a legal body and we pay tax. Our tax number is 997073090. If you wish to donate direct to our bank (IBAN) the account with Piraeus Bank is:  The Anglican Church in Greece, St. Paul’s Athens  GR 820172 0500 0050 5008 6327 479  Swift code is  PIRB GRAA income other than from the generosity of those who worship here.

 

  1. Notices : The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be on Sunday 20th Nomination forms for Council Membership and Church Wardens will be available soon.
  2. Easter – Virtual and Viral A book of sermons preached by Fr. Leonard during the first weeks of lockdown is available. Cost €5,00 – all income from sales will go to St. Paul’s Church.
  3. Church Council will meet on Saturday 12th at 10.30am in St. Paul’s.
  4. Community Connect coffee Morning – this Wednesday at 11.00-12.30
  5. If you feel competent to ‘run’ Zoom in church so we can livestream our services, please speak with Fr. Leonard this morning.

 

Fundraising and Special Services for Autumn/Winter 2020

Saturday 26th September – there will be a church garden Autumn Sale from 10.00-15.00 hours. (Planning Meeting after Liturgy on 13th)

Sunday 4th October – Feast of St. Francis. At noon there will be a Blessing of Pets service in St. Paul’s. Gift envelopes will be printed up and available for donations. 10% of the collection will go to an animal charity.

Saturday 10th October – ‘Gift Day’ from 11.00-13.00hrs Fr. Leonard will be at the church to receive donations from individuals in thanksgiving for St. Paul’s Church. Envelopes will be available and a ‘Giving Blessing’ will be offered.

Christmas Bazaar – 22nd November. We must assume it will go ahead as normal. There will be an open meeting for stall holders/interested individuals on Saturday 17th October at 11.00 in St. Paul’s. We need a co-ordinator/s.

Quiz Nights – Jean Mertzenakis has arranged four nights before Christmas. Sept 11th(cancelled), Oct 16th, Nov 13th, Dec 4th.

Community Connect Coffee Mornings: Sept 9th (Church Garden) Oct 14th, Nov 11th venue to be confirmed (Other Coffee Morning – the last Sunday of each month in the Church garden)

Wine Tasting- Anne Kokotos has agreed an Autumn wine tasting. The date is to be confirmed and we hope it will be in the Garden of the British Residence

Christmas Carol Singalong – 2 December dates this year, Dec 6th and 20th both at 18.30.

 

We have more than 1,000 Facebook followers – we are focusing our need for income to this group, and a PAYPAL facility is now available on our website.

 

Liturgy 30:08:2020

Liturgy of the Word 30th August 2020

Welcome to St Paul’s Athens,   especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Due to Government COVID-19 restrictions protective masks must be worn at all times in the church AND in the garden. There are no refreshments after the Liturgy, and we are not permitted yet to sing any hymns. Seating – try to ensure you are 1.5m away from any neighbour. Thank you for your co-operation as together we seek to control this virus in Greece.  Deacon Christine leads our worship, and is the preacher.

 

Entrance: The organ will play

 

Minister:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father

and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you

All:            and also with you.

Minister:  O Lord, open our lips

All:            and our mouth shall proclaim your praise.

Minister: Give us the joy of your saving help

All:            and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

 

The minister then welcomes people informally.

 

Prayers of Penitence

Minister:   Jesus says, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand. So let us turn away from our sin and turn to Christ, confessing our sins in penitence and faith.

 

All: Lord God, we have sinned against you;

       we have done evil in your sight.

       We are sorry and repent.

       Have mercy on us according to your love.

       Wash away our wrongdoing and cleanse us from our sin.

       Renew a right spirit within us  and restore us to the joy of your salvation;

       through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Minister:  May the Father of all mercies cleanse us from our sins, and restore us

in his image to the praise and glory of his name, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

All:            Amen

 

Psalm:

Vindicate me, O Lord,
for I have walked in my integrity,
and I have trusted in the Lord without wavering.
Prove me, O Lord, and try me;
test my heart and mind.
For your steadfast love is before my eyes,
and I walk in faithfulness to you.

I do not sit with the worthless,
nor do I consort with hypocrites;
I hate the company of evildoers,
and will not sit with the wicked.

I wash my hands in innocence,
and go around your altar, O Lord,
singing aloud a song of thanksgiving,
and telling all your wondrous deeds.

O Lord, I love the house in which you dwell,
and the place where your glory abides.

 

First Reading :  Romans 12, 9-end

At the end of the reading:

Reader: Hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches.

All:         Thanks be to God.

 

Minister:  Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead.

All:            And Christ shall give you light.

Minister:  You have died and your life is hid with Christ in God.

All:            Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead.

Minister:  Set your minds on things that are above,  not on things that are on the earth.

All:            And Christ shall give you light.

Minister:  When Christ our life appears you will appear with him in glory.

All:            Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead,  and Christ shall give you light.

The Benedictus   Luke 1, 68-79     (Please stand to say the canticle together)

 

  1. Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel, who has come to his people and set them free.
  2. He has raised up for us a mighty Saviour, born of the house of his servant David.
  3. Through his holy prophets God promised of old to save us from our enemies, from the hands of all that hate us,
  4. To show mercy to our ancestors, and to remember his holy covenant.
  5. This was the oath God swore to our father Abraham: to set us free from the hands of our enemies,
  6. Free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.
  7. And you, child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way,
  8. To give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of all their sins.
  9. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us,
  10. To shine on those who swell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be; world without end.  Amen.

 

The organ will play before the reading of the gospel

Gospel Reading                                                                                      

Minister:  Alleluia, Alleluia.  We do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

All:           Alleluia

 

Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Matthew (Matt. 16, 21-end)

All:          Glory to you, O Lord.   (We listen to the words of Jesus.)

 

(After the Gospel)  This is the Gospel of the Lord.
All:          Praise to you, O Christ.         

 

Sermon   (Please be seated)  

 

The Apostles’ Creed  (remain  standing)

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,

born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried;

he descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of God the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints,

the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.    Amen.

 

Intercessions:   Lord in your mercy,  Hear our prayer.  (Intercessor: Jean Metzanakis)

 

Collect for any season:  

Almighty God, give us reverence for all creation and respect for every person, that we might mirror your likeness in Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen

 

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;  thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven.  Give us this day our daily bread.  And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.  And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory for ever and ever.   Amen.

 

The Peace      (Please stand)   The peace of the Lord be always with you

All:                   and also with you

 

Notices

 

 Minister:     Let us say the Grace together:    The Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore.   Amen.

 

 

 

 

Trinity

11th Sunday after Trinity (August 23rd 2020)

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens. Due to Government COVID-19 restrictions protective masks must be worn at all times in the church AND in the garden. There are no refreshments after the Liturgy, and we are not permitted yet to sing any hymns. Seating – try to ensure you are 1.5m away from any neighbour. Thank you for your co-operation as together we seek to control this virus in Greece. The presiding priest is Fr. Leonard. The preacher is Alice Karanja.

 

Entrance: The organ will play

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

The priest then welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

Silence and stillness follows

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father; receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

God of glory, the end of our searching, help us to lay aside all that prevents us from seeking your kingdom, and to give all that we have to gain the pearl beyond all price, through Christ our Saviour. Amen.

 

First Reading    (please sit)                                                         Romans 12, 1-8

I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.

Reader:  This is the word of the Lord

All:          Thanks be to God.

 

Gospel Reading        (turn towards the gospel book)

Reader:     Alleluia! Alleluia! The word of the Lord endures for ever. The word of the Lord

is good news announced to you.  Alleluia!

All (said):  Alleluia            

Reader:     The Lord be with you

All:             and also with you

Reader:     Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Matthew (Matt. 16, 13-20)

All:             Glory to you, O Lord

Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.

At the end of the Gospel

Reader:   This is the gospel of the Lord

All:            Praise to you, O Christ. 

 

Sermon  (Please sit)  Most sermons are available on the website

 

Creed   (Please stand)  We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father: through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.  Amen.

 

Intercessions:  (please sit or kneel)   Lord in your mercy: hear our prayer. Intercessor: Linda Paparsenos

 

Peace:  Blessed are the peacemakers: they shall be called children of God. We meet in the name of Christ and share his peace. The peace of the Lord be always with you.

All:        And also with you.

 

(The bread and wine, signs of work and life are placed on the altar and received with the words)

Priest:  Wise and gracious God, you spread a table before us; nourish your people with the word of life and the bread of heaven.

All:       Amen.

 

Your collection this morning should be placed in the basket as you leave church.

 

The Great Thanksgiving Prayer    (Please remain standing for this)

Priest:  The Lord be with you

All:        and also with you

Priest:  Lift up your hearts

All:       We lift them to the Lord

Priest:  Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

All:        It is right to give thanks and praise

Priest:  Blessed are you, Lord God, our light and our salvation; to you be glory and praise for ever!  From the beginning you have created all things and all your works echo the silent music of your praise. In the fullness of time you made us in your image, the crown of all creation.  You give us breath and speech that with angels and archangels and all the powers of heaven
we may find a voice to sing your praise:

All: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Priest: How wonderful the work of your hands, O Lord! As a mother tenderly gathers her children you embraced a people as your own. When they turned away and rebelled
your love remained steadfast.  From them you raised up Jesus our Saviour, born of Mary, to be the living bread, in whom all our hungers are satisfied.  He offered his life for sinners and with a love stronger than death he opened wide his arms on the cross. On the night before he died, he came to supper with his friends, and taking bread, he gave you thanks.

He broke it and gave it to them, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you, do this in remembrance of me.

At the end of supper, taking the cup of wine, he gave you thanks, and said: Drink this, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.

Priest:     Christ is the bread of life

All:           When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim your death, Lord Jesus, until you come in glory.

Priest: Father, we plead with confidence his sacrifice made once for all on the cross: we remember his dying and rising in glory, and we rejoice that he prays for us at your right hand. Pour out your Holy Spirit as we bring before you these gifts of your creation; may they be for us the body and blood of your dear Son. As we eat and drink these holy things in your presence, form us in the likeness of Christ, and build us into a living temple to your glory. Remember Lord your Church in every land. Reveal her unity, guard her faith, and preserve her in peace with our Bishop Robert and all the congregations of this diocese; bring your people at the last with the Holy Mother of God, Paul, and all the saints to the vision of that eternal splendour for which you have created us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, by whom and with whom and in whom, with all who stand before you earth and heaven, we worship you in songs of everlasting praise;

All: Blessing and honour and glory and power be yours for ever and ever. Amen.

 

The Lord’s Prayer:  (to be prayed in your own language)

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Priest: We break this bread to share in the body of the risen Christ.

All:       Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.

 

Said:   Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us

             Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us

             Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world, grant us peace

 

Invitation to Communion

 Priest:  Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Happy are those

who are called to his supper.

All:       Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word and I shall be healed

 

All baptized Christians may come forward to receive the body of Christ. If you wish you may receive a blessing. Please let the Sides-people guide you forward. Keep your distance of 1.5m.  

 

Post Communion Prayer:  Let us pray     (please stand)

Lord of all mercy, we your faithful people have celebrated that one true sacrifice which takes away our sins and brings pardon and peace: by our communion keep us firm on the foundation of the gospel and preserve us from all sin; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

All: We thank you, Lord, that you have fed us in this sacrament, united us with Christ, and given us a foretaste of the heavenly banquet prepared for all peoples.  Amen.

 

Notices

 

Blessing and Dismissal

Priest:     The peace of God which passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds in

the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord; and the

blessing…. Amen.

 

Priest:     Go in peace to love and serve the Lord

All:           In the name of Christ. Amen.

 

Next Week’s Readings:  Romans 12, 1-8; Matthew 16, 13-20

 

Fr. Leonard’s usual Day Off – Monday  (in emergencies contact Deacon Christine)

Home tel :  210 72 14 906;  email anglican@otenet.gr

Deacon Chris: 22950 53164: Day off- Friday. Christine is on leave most of August

Swedish Church: Fr. Bjorn is recuperating from a serious illness – no contacts please

 

The Anglican Church in Greece (including St. Paul’s) is self- financing, and receives no income other than from the generosity of those who worship here. We are a legal body and we pay tax. Our tax number is 997073090. If you wish to donate direct to our bank (IBAN) the account with Piraeus Bank is:  The Anglican Church in Greece, St. Paul’s Athens  GR 820172 0500 0050 5008 6327 479  Swift code is  PIRB GRAA. We can also receive donations by PayPal – there is a link on our Website.

 

Fundraising and Special Services for Autumn/Winter 2020

 

 

 

Trinity

10th Sunday after Trinity (August 16th 2020)

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Due to Government COVID-19 restrictions protective masks must be worn at all times in the church AND in the garden. There are no refreshments after the Liturgy, and we are not permitted yet to sing any hymns. Seating – try to ensure you are 1.5m away from any neighbour. Thank you for your co-operation as together we seek to control this virus in Greece.

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard.

 

Entrance: The organ will play

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

The priest then welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

Silence and stillness follows

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father; receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Lord of heaven and earth, as Jesus taught his disciples to be persistent in prayer, give us patience and courage never to lose hope, but always to bring our prayers before you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

READ MORE

12308003_171512473200609_7163125448344572824_o

Fundraising and Special Services for Autumn/Winter 2020

NOTICES

  1. The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be on Sunday 20th September.  Nomination forms for Council Membership and Church Wardens will be available soon.

  2. Easter – Virtual and Viral A book of sermons preached by Fr. Leonard during the first weeks of lockdown is available. Cost €5,00 – all income from sales will go to St. Paul’s Church.

 

Fundraising and Special Services for Autumn/Winter 2020

 

Saturday 26th September – there will be a church garden Autumn Sale from 10.00-15.00 hours.

Sunday 4th October – Feast of St. Francis. At noon there will be a Blessing of Pets service in St. Paul’s. Gift envelopes will be printed up and available for donations. 10% of the collection will go to an animal charity.

Saturday 10th October – ‘Gift Day’ from 11.00-13.00hrs Fr. Leonard will be at the church to receive donations from individuals in thanksgiving for St. Paul’s Church. Envelopes will be available and a ‘Giving Blessing’ will be offered.

Christmas Bazaar – 22nd November. We must assume it will go ahead as normal. There will be an open meeting for stall holders/interested individuals on Saturday 17th October at 11.00 in St. Paul’s. We need a co-ordinator/s.

Quiz Nights – Jean Mertzenakis has arranged four nights before Christmas. Sept 11th, Oct 16th, Nov 13th, Dec 4th.

Community Connect Coffee Mornings: Sept 9th, Oct 14th, Nov 11th at the Swedish Centre. (Other Coffee Morning – the last Sunday of each month in the Church garden)

Wine Tasting- Anne Kokotos has agreed an Autumn wine tasting. The date is to be confirmed and we hope it will be in the Garden of the British Residence

Christmas Carol Singalong – 2 December dates this year, Dec 6th and 20th both at 18.30.

We have more than 1,000 Facebook followers – we are focusing our need for income to this group, and a PAYPAL facility is now available on our website.

 

Trinity

9th Sunday after Trinity (August 9th 2020)

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens. Due to Government COVID-19 restrictions protective masks must be worn at all times in the church AND in the garden. There are no refreshments after the Liturgy, and we are not permitted yet to sing any hymns. Seating – try to ensure you are 1.5m away from any neighbour. Thank you for your co-operation as together we seek to control this virus in Greece.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard. The sermon is on the website in printed and recorded formats,

 

Entrance: the organ will play

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and leads us into Confession.

Silence and stillness follows

 All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father; receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Gracious Father, revive your Church in our day, and make her holy, strong and faithful, for your glory’s sake; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen.

 

First Reading    (please sit)                                                              Romans 10, 5-15

Moses writes concerning the righteousness that comes from the law, that “the person who does these things will live by them.” But the righteousness that comes from faith says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down) “or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say? “The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); because if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved. The scripture says, “No one who believes in him will be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. For, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

This is the word of the Lord.

All: Thanks be to God

 

The organ will play as the gospel book is brought forward

 

Gospel Reading        (turn towards the gospel book)

Reader:     Alleluia! Alleluia! The word of the Lord endures for ever. The word of the Lord is good news announced to you.  Alleluia!

All:             Alleluia            

Reader:    The Lord be with you

All:             and also with you

Reader:    Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Matthew (Matt 14, 22-33)

All:             Glory to you, O Lord

Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them. And early in the morning he came walking toward them on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.” Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

At the end of the Gospel

Reader:   This is the gospel of the Lord

All:           Praise to you, O Christ.

 

Sermon  (Please sit)  Most sermons are available on the website

 

Creed   (Please stand)  We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father: through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.  Amen.

 

Intercessions:  (please sit or kneel)   Lord in your mercy: hear our prayer. Intercessor: Janet Athanasopoulou

 

Peace:  Blessed are the peacemakers: they shall be called children of God. We meet in the name of Christ and share his peace. The peace of the Lord be always with you.

All:        And also with you.

 

The organ plays as the table is prepared (The bread and wine, signs of work and life are set on the table and these words are said)

Priest:  Wise and gracious God, you spread a table before us; nourish your people with the word of life and the bread of heaven.

All:       Amen.

 

(Your collection should be placed in the basket as you leave church. St. Paul’s church is self supporting – please give generously towards our common life and work in Athens).

 

The Great Thanksgiving Prayer    ( Please remain standing for this)

Priest:  The Lord be with you

All:        and also with you

Priest:  Lift up your hearts

All:       We lift them to the Lord

Priest:  Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

All:        It is right to give thanks and praise

Priest:  Blessed are you, Lord God, our light and our salvation; to you be glory and praise for ever!  From the beginning you have created all things and all your works echo the silent music of your praise. In the fullness of time you made us in your image, the crown of all creation.  You give us breath and speech that with angels and archangels and all the powers of heaven
we may find a voice to sing your praise:

All:   Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Priest: How wonderful the work of your hands, O Lord! As a mother tenderly gathers her children you embraced a people as your own. When they turned away and rebelled
your love remained steadfast.  From them you raised up Jesus our Saviour, born of Mary,
to be the living bread, in whom all our hungers are satisfied.  He offered his life for sinners
and with a love stronger than death he opened wide his arms on the cross.

On the night before he died, he came to supper with his friends, and taking bread, he gave you thanks. He broke it and gave it to them, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you, do this in remembrance of me.

At the end of supper, taking the cup of wine, he gave you thanks, and said: Drink this, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.

Priest:     Christ is the bread of life

All:           When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim your death, Lord Jesus,

                 until you come in glory.

Priest: Father, we plead with confidence his sacrifice made once for all on the cross: we remember his dying and rising in glory, and we rejoice that he prays for us at your right hand. Pour out your Holy Spirit as we bring before you these gifts of your creation; may they be for us the body and blood of your dear Son. As we eat and drink these holy things in your presence, form us in the likeness of Christ, and build us into a living temple to your glory. Remember Lord your Church in every land. Reveal her unity, guard her faith, and preserve her in peace with our Bishop Robert and all the congregations of this diocese; bring your people at the last with the Holy Mother of God, Paul, and all the saints to the vision of that eternal splendour for which you have created us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, by whom and with whom and in whom, with all who stand before you earth and heaven, we worship you in songs of everlasting praise;

All: Blessing and honour and glory and power be yours for ever and ever. Amen.

 

The Lord’s Prayer:  (to be prayed in your own language)

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Priest: We break this bread to share in the body of the risen Christ.

All:       Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.

 

Said:    Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us

             Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us

             Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world, grant us peace

 

 

Invitation to Communion

 

Priest:  Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Happy are those

who are called to his supper.

All:       Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word and I shall be healed

 

All baptized Christians may come forward to receive the body of Christ. If you wish you may receive a blessing. Please let the Sides-people guide you forward keeping your social distance.  

 

Post Communion Prayer:  Let us pray     (please stand)

Holy Father, who gathered us here around the table of your Son to share this meal with the whole household of faith: in that new world where you reveal the fullness of your peace, gather people from every race and language to share in the eternal banquet of Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

All: We thank you, Lord, that you have fed us in this sacrament, united us with Christ, and given us a foretaste of the heavenly banquet prepared for all peoples.  Amen.

 

Notices

 

Blessing and Dismissal

Priest:     The peace of God which passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds in

the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord; and the

blessing…. Amen.

 

Priest:     Go in peace to love and serve the Lord

All:           In the name of Christ. Amen.

 

Next Week’s Readings: Trinity 10:  Rom 11, 1-2, 29-32; Matthew 15, 21-28

 

Fr. Leonard’s usual Day Off – Monday  (in emergencies contact Deacon Christine)

Home tel :  210 72 14 906;  email anglican@otenet.gr

Deacon Chris: 22950 53164: Day off Friday. Christine is on holiday most of August.

Swedish Church: please do not contact Fr. Bjorn as he recovers from illness.

 

The Anglican Church in Greece (including St. Paul’s) is self- financing, and receives no income other than from the generosity of those who worship here. We are a legal body and we pay tax. Our tax number is 997073090. If you wish to donate direct to our bank (IBAN) the account with Piraeus Bank is:  The Anglican Church in Greece, St. Paul’s Athens  GR 820172 0500 0050 5008 6327 479  Swift code is  PIRB GRAA income other than from the generosity of those who worship here.

 

—————————————————————————————————————————————————–

 

NOTICES

 

  1. The Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be on Sunday 20th September.  Nomination forms for Council Membership and Church Wardens will be available soon.

  2. Easter – Virtual and Viral A book of sermons preached by Fr. Leonard during the first weeks of lockdown is available. Cost €5,00 – all income from sales will go to St. Paul’s Church.

 

Fundraising and Special Services for Autumn/Winter 2020

 

Saturday 26th September – there will be a church garden Autumn Sale from 10.00-15.00 hours.

 

Sunday 4th October – Feast of St. Francis. At noon there will be a Blessing of Pets service in St. Paul’s. Gift envelopes will be printed up and available for donations. 10% of the collection will go to an animal charity.

 

Saturday 10th October – ‘Gift Day’ from 11.00-13.00hrs Fr. Leonard will be at the church to receive donations from individuals in thanksgiving for St. Paul’s Church. Envelopes will be available and a ‘Giving Blessing’ will be offered.

 

Christmas Bazaar – 22nd November. We must assume it will go ahead as normal. There will be an open meeting for stall holders/interested individuals on Saturday 17th October at 11.00 in St. Paul’s. We need a co-ordinator/s.

 

Quiz Nights – Jean Mertzenakis has arranged four nights before Christmas. Sept 11th, Oct 16th, Nov 13th, Dec 4th.

 

Community Connect Coffee Mornings: Sept 9th, Oct 14th, Nov 11th at the Swedish Centre. (Other Coffee Morning – the last Sunday of each month in the Church garden)

 

Wine Tasting- Anne Kokotos has agreed an Autumn wine tasting. The date is to be confirmed and we hope it will be in the Garden of the British Residence

 

Christmas Carol Singalong – 2 December dates this year, Dec 6th and 20th both at 18.30.

We have more than 1,000 Facebook followers – we are focusing our need for income to this group, and a PAYPAL facility is now available on our website.

 

 

 

In Memoriam

In Memoriam – John Walter Day

IN MEMORIAM

JOHN WALTER DAY

On Sunday, 26th July, a Service of Thanksgiving, led by Rev. Deacon Christine Saccali, was held at St. Paul’s in remembrance of long-time friend and supporter of the Chaplaincy, John Day. On retirement, and after relocating to Athens, both John and his wife, Katya, attended St. Paul’s for more than 30 years and John was a Churchwarden for many of them, serving first alongside Harry Hill, then Ron Turnnidge and finally Linda Paparsenos – their shared tenure was a long one. As Churchwarden, John was an ex-officio member of the Church Council and his knowledge of the workings, rules and regulations of the church was often called on. After the loss of his wife, Katya, a few years ago, John continued to attend and also to enjoy the social life offered by the church community until his health failed and he became housebound.

 

Tributes were paid, first by Jean Mertzanakis, whose personal memories of John included his love of conversation, his interest in world affairs, his cooking abilities, his love of ‘real English tea’ and ‘real ale’ and his enjoyment of after-church get-togethers with congregation members after the Sunday Service. She ended with a tribute from a member of the congregration now resident in California, who remembered John as a quiet, thoughtful man, always well-dressed, who never spoke without due care and consideration. Linda Paparsenos then outlined his life as a Spitfire pilot in WW2, his career in banking, his life with Katya in Athens and all the social events they enjoyed together – particularly one fancy-dress party where they came in casual clothing, each wearing a pair of antlers, in the role of “Two Old Dears”. Mr. Dennis Wilson then spoke about John’s role as a founding and leading member of the first English-speaking Masonic Lodge in Athens and the valuable role he played in its life as organiser and adviser, held in great respect by all, until ill-health prevented him from doing so. John’s sister-in-law Rania concluded by saying how comforting it was for the family to learn how loved and esteemed John had been by so many people in a life filled with enjoyment and humour here in Greece.

Although singing was not possible due to Covid 19 precautions, organist Christina played “Oh God our help in ages past” and “Guide me o Thou O Great Redeemer”. Friends met afterwards to toast John and remember him with great affection.

 

Jean Mertzanakis

Trinity

The Anglican Church in Greece Celebrating the Saints (July 26th 2020)

Welcome to our Sunday worship which this morning is a Service of the Word. As July is a month of saints like  Thomas (3rd), Benedict (11th), Margaret of Antioch (20th), Mary Magdalene (22nd), Bridget of Sweden (23rd) , James (25th) and others our worship will focus on celebrating the saints.

 

We are not yet encouraged to sing in our churches because of virus transmission.

 

The preacher this morning is Deacon Christine.

 

Deacon:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:           and also with you.

Deacon: Our Lord Jesus Christ said; the first commandment is this:  Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is the only Lord. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ There  is no other commandment greater than these. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

     All:         Amen. Lord have mercy.

 

There is a short period of silence, followed by Confession.

All: Most merciful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we confess that we have sinned in thought, word and deed. We have not loved you with our whole heart. We have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. In your mercy forgive what we have been, help us to amend what we are, and direct what we shall be; that we may do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with you, our God. Amen.

Deacon:   May the God of love and power forgive us and free us from our sins, heal and strengthen us by his Spirit, and raise us to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

6th Sunday after Trinity (July 19th 2020)

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here for the first time or visiting Athens. Hand sanitizing and social distancing is required at the present time. We are advised not to sing. Only the ‘holy bread’ of Communion is being distributed. There is no Sunday School yet, and no refreshments after the Liturgy.

 

Fr. Bjorn Kling, Pastor of the Swedish Church is presiding this morning.

 

Priest:    In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

All:         Amen

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         And also with you

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God leads us into Confession.

Silence and stillness follows

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

 

Gloria:  Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father; receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

 

Collect:  Let us pray    (remain standing as the priest prays the Collect of the Day) 

Creator God, you made us in your image: may we discern you in all that we see, and serve you in all that we do; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

 

First Reading    (please sit)                                                             Genesis Romans 8, 12-25

So then, brothers and sisters, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh— for if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption. When we cry, “Abba! Father!” it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ—if, in fact, we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him. I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God; for the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and will obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.

 

Reader: This is the word of the Lord

All:         Thanks be to God.

 

As the gospel book is processed the organ will play.

Gospel Reading        (turn towards the gospel book)

Priest:     Alleluia! Alleluia! The word of the Lord endures for ever. The word of the Lord is good news announced to you.  Alleluia!

All:           Alleluia            

Priest:      The Lord be with you

All:            and also with you

Priest:      Hear the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Matthew

(Mt. 13, 24-30, 36-43)

All:            Glory to you, O Lord

He put before them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to someone who sowed good seed in his field; but while everybody was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and then went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared as well. And the slaves of the householder came and said to him, ‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where, then, did these weeds come from?’ He answered, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The slaves said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them?’ But he replied, ‘No; for in gathering the weeds you would uproot the wheat along with them. Let both of them grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Collect the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.’”

At the end of the Gospel

Priest:     This is the gospel of the Lord

All:           Praise to you, O Christ.

 

Homily  (Please sit)  Most sermons are available on the website in printed or audio format

 

Creed   (Please stand)

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father: through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father, who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.  Amen.

 

Intercessions:  (please sit)   Lord in your mercy: hear our prayer.

                            (Intercessor Magdalen Imarghiagbo)

 

Peace:  God is love, and those who live in love live in God and God lives in them. Th epeace of the Lord be always with you.

All:        And also with you.

We are then invited us to acknowledge our neighbours but without a handshake.

 

As the altar is prepared the organ will play.

 

(The bread and wine, signs of work and life are brought to the altar and received with the words)

Priest:  Holy God, holy and strong, holy and immortal, give us the bread of everlasting life,

and make us branches of the true vine.

All:       Amen.

 

The Great Thanksgiving Prayer ( Please remain standing for this)

Priest:  The Lord be with you

All:        and also with you

Priest:  Lift up your hearts

All:       We lift them to the Lord

Priest:  Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

All:        It is right to give thanks and praise

Priest:  Priest:  Blessed are you, Lord God, our light and our salvation; to you be glory and praise for ever!  From the beginning you have created all things and all your works echo the silent music of your praise. In the fullness of time you made us in your image, the crown of all creation.  You give us breath and speech that with angels and archangels and all the powers of heaven we may find a voice to sing your praise:

All:   Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of hosts, heaven and earth are full of thy glory. Glory be to thee, O Lord most high. Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

 

Priest: How wonderful the work of your hands, O Lord! As a mother tenderly gathers her children you embraced a people as your own. When they turned away and rebelled your love remained steadfast.  From them you raised up Jesus our Saviour, born of Mary, to be the living bread, in whom all our hungers are satisfied.  He offered his life for sinners and with a love stronger than death he opened wide his arms on the cross. On the night before he died, he came to supper with his friends, and taking bread, he gave you thanks. He broke it and gave it to them, saying: Take eat: this is my body which is given for you, do this in remembrance of me. At the end of supper, taking the cup of wine, he gave you thanks, and said: Drink this, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.

Priest:     Christ is the bread of life

All:           When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim your death, Lord Jesus,

                 until you come in glory.

 

Priest : Father, we plead with confidence his sacrifice made once for all on the cross: we remember his dying and rising in glory, and we rejoice that he prays for us at your right hand. Pour out your Holy Spirit as we bring before you these gifts of your creation; may they be for us the body and blood of your dear Son. As we eat and drink these holy things in your presence, form us in the likeness of Christ, and build us into a living temple to your glory. Remember Lord your Church in every land. Reveal her unity, guard her faith, and preserve her in peace with our Bishop Robert and all the congregations of this diocese; bring her at the last with the Holy Mother of God, Paul, and all the saints to the vision of that eternal splendour for which you have created us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, by whom and with whom and in whom, with all who stand before you earth and heaven, we worship you in songs of everlasting praise;

All: Blessing and honour and glory and power be yours for ever and ever. Amen.  

 

The Lord’s Prayer:  (to be prayed in your own language)

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Priest: We break this bread to share in the body of the risen Christ.

All:       Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.

 

Said:    Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us,

             Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us,

Lamb of God you take away the sin of the world, grant us peace.

 

Invitation to Communion

 

Priest:  Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Happy are those

who are called to his supper.

All:       Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word and I shall be healed

 

All baptized Christians may come forward to receive the body of Christ. If you wish you may receive a blessing. Please let the Sides-people guide you forward.  

During the distribution of Holy Communion the organ will play.

 

Post Communion Prayer:  Let us pray     (please stand)

God of our pilgrimage, you have led us to the living water: refresh and sustain us as we go forward on our journey, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

All: You have opened to us the Scriptures, O Christ, and you have made yourself known in the breaking of bread. Abide with us, we pray, that blessed by your royal presence, we may walk with you all the days of our life, and at its end behold you in the glory of the eternal Trinity, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Notices

 

Blessing and Dismissal

Priest:     The peace of God which passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds in

the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord; and the

blessing…. Amen.

 

Priest:     Go in peace to love and serve the Lord

All:           In the name of Christ. Amen.

 

Next Week’s Readings:  (Deacon Christine with a Service of the Word) Rom 8, 26-end; Mt 13, 31-33, 44-52)

Fr. Leonard’s usual Day Off – Monday  (in emergencies contact Deacon Christine)

Home tel :  210 72 14 906;  email anglican@otenet.gr

Deacon Chris: 22950 53164: Please avoid contacting Chris on Fridays.

Swedish Church: contact Fr. Bjorn on  694 607 2428

 

The Anglican Church in Greece (including St. Paul’s) is self financing, and receives no income other than from the generosity of those who worship here. We are a legal body and we pay tax. Our tax number is 997073090. If you wish to donate direct to our bank (IBAN) the account with Piraeus Bank is:  The Anglican Church in Greece, St. Paul’s Athens  GR 820172 0500 0050 5008 6327 479  Swift code is  PIRB GRAA income other than from the generosity of those who worship here.

You can now also donate via PayPal.  Click here to donate

 

 

 

Eat & Drink

4th Sunday after Trinity (July 5th 2020)

Welcome to St. Paul’s Athens especially if you are here

for the first time or visiting Athens. Hand sanitizing and social distancing is required at the present time. We are advised not to sing. Only the ‘holy bread’ of Communion is being distributed. There is no Sunday School yet, and no refreshments after the Liturgy.

 

The presiding priest and preacher is Fr. Leonard. The deacon is The Revd. Deacon Christine Saccali.

 

(At the door)

Priest:    Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit

All:         Blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen

Priest:    There is one body and one spirit.

All:         There is one hope to which we are called

Priest:    one Lord, one faith, one baptism,

All:         one God and Father of all.

Priest:    The Lord be with you

All:         and also with you.

 

The organ will play for the clergy to enter.

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence and stillness follows

 

All:  Father eternal, giver of light and grace, we have sinned against you and against our neighbour, in what we have thought, in what we have said and done, through ignorance, through weakness, through our own deliberate fault. We have wounded your love, and marred your image in us. We are sorry and ashamed, and repent of all our sins. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, who died for us, forgive us all that is past; and lead us out from darkness to walk as children of light. Amen.

 

Absolution: Almighty God, who forgives all who truly repent, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

READ MORE

I am the way

Third Sunday after Trinity – 28th June 2020

Welcome to our Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  Today we are ‘anticipating’ the Feast of St. Pater and Paul (29th).After the worship we can have a short chat together.   

This is the last Zoom service before the Summer. We hope that from the beginning of September we will live Zoom the service from St. Paul’s. The Wednesday Evening Prayer, and the Friday Bible Study will resume in September.

 

The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard.

 

Priest:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:       and also with you.

 

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now am found
Was blind but now I see.

 

T’ was Grace that taught my heart to fear
And Grace, my fears relieved
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed

 

Through many dangers, toils and snares
We have already come
T’was Grace that brought us safe thus far
And Grace will lead us home

 

Deacon: Our Lord Jesus Christ said; the first commandment is this:  Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is the

only Lord. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all

your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ There

is no other commandment greater than these. On these two commandments hang all the law and

the prophets.

      All:         Amen. Lord have mercy.

 

There is a short period of silence, followed by Confession.

All: Most merciful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we confess that we have sinned in thought, word and deed. We have not loved you with our whole heart. We have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. In your mercy forgive what we have been, help us to amend what we are, and direct what we shall be; that we may do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with you, our God. Amen.

 Priest:   May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

I am the way

Second Sunday after Trinity – 21st June 2020

Welcome to our Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together.  There will be a Zoom service until the last Sunday of June.  There is a new zoom log in address on the website for the Sundays of June 14th-28th.

 

Until the end of June there is a Zoom weekly Bible Study and a mid-week evening quiet reflection service. Both of these will resume at the start of September. The login address for the quiet evening service is on the website. To join the bible study please contact Fr. Leonard first on his own email. The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout June. St. Paul’s is open again for its regular visiting  times.

From July 5th the principal worship will be back in St. Paul’s Church. We are exploring the possibility of providing Zoom participation in the Sunday service from September onwards. Watch this space!

 

The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard.

 

Priest:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:       and also with you.

 

1 Morning has broken
Like the first morning,
Blackbird has spoken
Like the first bird.
Praise for the singing!
Praise for the morning!
Praise for them, springing
Fresh from the Word!

 

2 Sweet the rain’s new fall
Sunlit from Heaven,
Like the first dewfall
On the first grass.
Praise for the sweetness
Of the wet garden,
Sprung in completeness
Where his feet pass

 

Mine is the sunlight

Mine is the morning

born of the one light

Eden saw play

Praise with elation

Praise every morning

God’s re-creation

Of the new day!

 

Deacon: Our Lord Jesus Christ said; the first commandment is this:  Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is the

only Lord. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all

your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ There

is no other commandment greater than these. On these two commandments hang all the law and

the prophets.

      All:         Amen. Lord have mercy.

READ MORE

I am the way

First Sunday after Trinity – 14th June 2020

Welcome to our Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together.  There will be a Zoom service until the last Sunday of June. There is a new login address on the website for the Sundays of June 14th-28th. 

Until the end of June there is a Zoom weekly Bible Study and a mid-week evening quiet reflection service. Both of these will resume at the start of September. The login address for the quiet evening worship is on the website. To join the bible study please contact Fr. Leonard first on his own email. The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout June. St. Paul’s is open again for its regular visiting  times.

From July 5th the principal worship will be back in St. Paul’s Church. We are exploring the possibility of providing Zoom participation in the Sunday service from September onwards. Watch this space!

The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard.

 

Priest:  Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:       and also with you.

 1 Awake, my soul, and with the sun
thy daily stage of duty run;
shake off dull sloth, and early rise
to pay thy morning sacrifice.

 

2 Lord, I my vows to Thee renew.
Disperse my sins as morning dew;
guard my first springs of thought and will,
and with Thyself my spirit fill.

 

3 Direct, control, suggest, this day,
all I design or do or say,
that all my pow’rs, with all their might,
in Thy sole glory may unite.

 

4 Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
praise Him all creatures here below;
praise Him above, ye heav’nly host;
praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

 

Deacon: Our Lord Jesus Christ said; the first commandment is this:  Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is the only Lord. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

All:          Amen. Lord have mercy.

READ MORE

Clipart-Email-11451803 Zoom

June Zoom Worship

Leonard Doolan is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: June Worship

Time: Jun 14, 2020 10:00 AM Athens

Every week on Sun, until Jun 28, 2020, 3 occurrence(s)

Jun 14, 2020 10:00 AM

Jun 21, 2020 10:00 AM

Jun 28, 2020 10:00 AM

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.

Weekly: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZAqc-uvqTwqGtD7-JUcRrW0Cz6z_6VxSGtx/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGsqT8oHdOSsBmDRpwIB4-ga-3wtmZfjbd5y1LPNiNhcDSmFfgUKI0pJsDj

 

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84742777004?pwd=aEErZzJPcEpLT29tVTR5Slk2d1p4QT09

 

Meeting ID: 847 4277 7004

Password: 6JGWWE

One tap mobile

+16699006833,,84742777004#,,1#,845764# US (San Jose)

+19292056099,,84742777004#,,1#,845764# US (New York)

READ MORE

I am the way

Trinity Sunday – 7th June 2020

Welcome to our Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

Until the end of June there is a Zoom weekly Bible Study and a mid-week evening quiet reflection service. Both of these will resume at the start of September. The login address for the quiet evening service is on the website. To join the bible study please contact Fr. Leonard first on his own email. The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout June. St. Paul’s is open again for its regular visiting  times. Throughout June there is a mid-day Sunday service in St. Paul’s Church. Please see the website about changes to Sunday worship times.

 

The preacher this morning is Fr. Leonard.

 

Priest:  Holy holy holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is, and is to come.

Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:       and also with you.

 

1 Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee.
Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty!
God in three Persons, blessed Trinity

 

2 Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore thee,
casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
cherubim and seraphim falling down before thee,
who wert, and art, and evermore shalt be.

 

3 Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide thee,
though the eye of sinful man thy glory may not see,
only thou art holy; there is none beside thee
perfect in pow’r, in love, and purity.

 

4 Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
All thy works shall praise thy name in earth and sky and sea.
Holy, holy, holy! Merciful and mighty!
God in three Persons, blessed Trinity!

READ MORE

I am the way

Quiet Evening Worship – After Pentecost

Evening Worship

A short service for the early evening.

 

O God, make speed to save us.

All   O Lord, make haste to help us.

 

Together we say:

 

1    How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts!  ♦

My soul has a desire and longing to enter the courts of the Lord;

my heart and my flesh rejoice in the living God.

2    The sparrow has found her a house and the swallow a nest where she may lay her young:  ♦ at your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.

3    Blessed are they who dwell in your house:  ♦ they will always be praising you. [R]

4    Blessed are those whose strength is in you,  ♦ in whose heart are the highways to Zion,

5    Who going through the barren valley find there a spring,  ♦and the early rains will clothe it with blessing.

6    They will go from strength to strength  ♦ and appear before God in Zion. [R]

7    O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer;  ♦ listen, O God of Jacob.

8    Behold our defender, O God,  ♦ and look upon the face of your anointed.

9    For one day in your courts  ♦ is better than a thousand. [R]

10  I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God  ♦than dwell in the tents of ungodliness.

11  For the Lord God is both sun and shield; he will give grace and glory;  ♦no good thing shall the Lord withhold from those who walk with integrity.

12  O Lord God of hosts,  ♦ blessed are those who put their trust in you.

Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning is now

and shall be for ever. Amen.

 This opening prayer may be said

 That this evening may be holy, good and peaceful, let us pray with one heart and mind.

 

  Silence is kept.

As our evening prayer rises before you, O God, so may your mercy come down upon us to cleanse our hearts and set us free to sing your praise now and for ever.  All   Amen.

The appointed psalmody is said. Each psalm ends  with

All   Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning is now, and shall be for ever. Amen.

 

Canticle

A Song of the Blessed

 All   Rejoice and be glad for you are the light of the world, and great is your reward in heaven.

  1. Blessed are the poor in spirit,  ♦ for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
  2. Blessed are those who mourn,  ♦ for they shall be comforted.
  3. Blessed are the meek,  ♦ for they shall inherit the earth.
  4. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness,  ♦ for they shall be satisfied
  5. Blessed are the merciful,  ♦ for they shall obtain mercy.
  6. Blessed are the pure in heart,  ♦ for they shall see God.
  7. Blessed are the peacemakers,  ♦ for they shall be called children of God.
  8. Blessed are those who suffer persecution for righteousness’ sake,  ♦for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5.3-10)

All   Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning is now and shall be for ever. Amen.

All   Rejoice and be glad for you are the light of the world, and great is your reward in heaven.

Scripture Reading

Responsory

Lord, you will guide me with your counsel and afterwards receive me with glory.

All   Lord, you will guide me with your counsel and afterwards receive me with glory.

For I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.

All   And afterwards receive me with glory.

Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

All   Lord, you will guide me with your counsel and afterwards receive me with glory.

 

 The Magnificat (The Song of Mary) is normally said, or the Nunc dimittis (The Song of Simeon) (here) may be said.

 

All   Remember your promise of mercy, to Abraham and his children for ever.

1    My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour;  ♦ he has looked with favour on his lowly servant.

2    From this day all generations will call me blessed;  ♦ the Almighty has done great things for me and holy is his name.

3    He has mercy on those who fear him,  ♦ from generation to generation.

4    He has shown strength with his arm  ♦ and has scattered the proud in their conceit,

5    Casting down the mighty from their thrones  ♦ and lifting up the lowly.

6    He has filled the hungry with good things  ♦ and sent the rich away empty.

7    He has come to the aid of his servant Israel,  ♦ to remember his promise of mercy,

8    The promise made to our ancestors,  ♦ to Abraham and his children for ever.    (Luke 1.46-55)

All   Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning is now and shall be for ever. Amen.

All   Remember your promise of mercy, to Abraham and his children for ever.

Intercessions are offered:  Lord, in your mercy:  hear our prayer.

Silence may be kept. A mediation or reading may be offered.

The Collect of the day (here) or the following is said

Eternal Lord, our beginning and our end: bring us with the whole creation to your glory, hidden through past ages and made known in Jesus Christ our Lord.  All   Amen.

Let us pray with confidence as our Saviour has taught us

All   Our Father, who art in heaven …

 

All   The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen.

Let us bless the Lord.

All   Thanks be to God.

 

 

I am the way

Pentecost Sunday – 31st May 2020

The Anglican Church in Greece – St Paul’s Athens

 

Welcome to our Eastertide Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence. 

There is now a Zoom weekly Bible Study and a mid-week evening quiet reflection service. The login address for the quiet evening service is on the website. To join the bible study please contact Fr. Leonard first on his own email. The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout May. St. Paul’s is open again for its regular times from May 5th. Please see the website about public services beginning again.

 The preacher this morning is Deacon Christine.

 Zoom Sunday worship will continue until end of June, opening at 10.00hrs. There will be a short, said, Eucharist at St. Paul’s at 12noon each Sunday until the end of June. We are not back to normal yet!

 

Priest:  Send forth your Spirit, O Lord, and renew the face of the earth.

Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

All:       and also with you.

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

      All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

1 Come down, O Love divine,
seek thou this soul of mine,
and visit it with thine own ardor glowing;
O Comforter, draw near,
within my heart appear,
and kindle it, thy holy flame bestowing.

 

 2 O let it freely burn,
till earthly passions turn
to dust and ashes in its heat consuming;
and let thy glorious light
shine ever on my sight,
and clothe me round, the while my path illuming.

 

 3 And so the yearning strong,
with which the soul will long,
shall far outpass the power of human telling;
for none can guess its grace,
till Love create a place
wherein the Holy Spirit makes a dwelling.

READ MORE

I am the way

The Anglican Church in Greece 7th Sunday of Easter (May 24th 2020)

Welcome to our Eastertide Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 There is now a Zoom weekly Bible Study and a mid-week evening quiet reflection service. The login address for the quiet evening service is on the website. To join the bible study please contact Fr. Leonard first on his own email. The Sunday Worship login address remains the same throughout May. St. Paul’s is open again for its regular times from May 5th. Please see the website about public services beginning again.

 The preacher this morning is the Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan. The preacher next week will be Deacon Christine.

 Zoom Sunday worship will continue until end of June, opening at 10.00hrs. From 17th May there will be a short, said, Eucharist at St. Paul’s at 12 noon. We are not back to normal yet!

 

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

      All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

1 Hail the day that sees him rise, Alleluia!
to his throne beyond the skies. Alleluia!
Christ, the Lamb for sinners given, Alleluia!
enters now the highest heaven. Alleluia!

 

2 There for him high triumph waits; Alleluia!
lift your heads, eternal gates. Alleluia!
He has conquered death and sin; Alleluia!
take the King of glory in. Alleluia!

 

3 Highest heaven its Lord receives; Alleluia!
yet he loves the earth he leaves. Alleluia!
Though returning to his throne, Alleluia!
still he calls us all his own. Alleluia!

 

4 Still for us he intercedes; Alleluia!
his atoning death he pleads, Alleluia!
near himself prepares our place, Alleluia!
he the firstfruits of our race. Alleluia!

 

5 There we shall with you remain, Alleluia!
partners of your endless reign, Alleluia!
see you with unclouded view, Alleluia!
find our heaven of heavens in you. Alleluia!

READ MORE

I am the way

The Anglican Church in Greece 6th Sunday of Easter (May 17th 2020)

Welcome to our Eastertide Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you

may be happy to listen in silence.

 There is now a Zoom weekly Bible Study and a mid-week evening quiet reflection service. The login address for the quiet evening service is on the website. To join the bible study please contact Fr. Leonard first on his own email. The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout May. St. Paul’s is open again for its regular times from May 5th. Please see the website about public services beginning again.

 

The preacher this morning is the Revd. Dimitris Boukis, secretary of the Synod of the Greek Evangelical Church.

Zoom Sunday worship will continue until end of June, opening at 10.00hrs. From 17th May there will be a short, said, Eucharist at St. Paul’s at 12 noon. We are not back to normal yet!

 

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

      All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

Hymn:  What a Friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer!

  Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged,
Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Can we find a friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness,
Take it to the Lord in prayer.

 Are we weak and heavy-laden,
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge—
Take it to the Lord in prayer;
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer;
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee,
Thou wilt find a solace there.

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins.

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon:  Lord Jesus, you feed us with the living bread.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

I am the way

The Anglican Church in Athens 5th Sunday of Easter – 10th May 2020

Welcome to our Eastertide Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 There is now a Zoom weekly Bible Study and a mid-week evening quiet reflection service. The login address for the quiet evening service is on the website. To join the bible study please contact Fr. Leonard first on his own email. The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout May. St. Paul’s is open again for its regular times from May 5th. Please see the website about public services beginning again.

 

SERMON

 

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

      All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

1 Morning has broken
Like the first morning,
Blackbird has spoken
Like the first bird.
Praise for the singing!
Praise for the morning!
Praise for them, springing
Fresh from the Word!

 

2 Sweet the rain’s new fall
Sunlit from Heaven,
Like the first dewfall
On the first grass.
Praise for the sweetness
Of the wet garden,
Sprung in completeness
Where his feet pass.

 

 3 Mine is the sunlight,
Mine is the morning,
Born of the one light
Eden saw play.
Praise with elation,
Praise every morning,
God’s re-creation
Of the new day!
The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins.

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon:  Lord Jesus, you feed us with the living bread.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

Bible Study Blog

Pastoral Letter from Fr Leonard

The Anglican Church in Greece (Church of England) St. Paul’s Church

6th May 2020

Dear Friends at St. Paul’s,

You will be sad to hear of the death of Mr. John Day, a former Churchwarden of St. Paul’s. John died on Monday 4th May. He requested a cremation, but also a service of Thanksgiving at St. Paul’s. Information about the Thanksgiving will be sent out in due course. May he rest in peace.

Greece has been remarkably fortunate, ‘blessed’, by having very low numbers of COVID-19 infections and deaths. This has been due in large part to two factors; firstly quick and decisive action and advice from the Government, and secondly the responsible way in which citizens and residents of Greece reacted to the situation.

Gradually we are experiencing an easing of ‘lockdown’ restrictions, but with a constant mantra of behaving sensibly, continuing with hand hygiene, social distancing, and the wearing of masks on public transport and in shops. Fines are still in place!

READ MORE

I am the way

Wednesday Evening Zoom Worship

Evening Worship

A short service for the early evening.

O God, make speed to save us.

All   O Lord, make haste to help us.

 

Together we say:

 

  • I love you, O Lord my strength.  ♦ The Lord is my crag, my fortress and my deliverer.
  • In my distress I called upon the Lord  ♦ and cried out to my God for help.
  • He heard my voice in his temple  ♦ and my cry came to his ears.
  • He parted the heavens and came down  ♦ and thick darkness was under his feet.
  • He rode upon the cherubim and flew;  ♦ he came flying on the wings of the wind.
  • He made darkness his covering round about him,  ♦ dark waters and thick clouds his pavilion.
  • From the brightness of his presence, through the clouds  ♦ burst hailstones and coals of fire
  • The Lord also thundered out of heaven;  ♦ the Most High uttered his voice
  • For you will save a lowly people  ♦ and bring down the high looks of the proud.
  • You also shall light my candle;  ♦ the Lord my God shall make my darkness to be bright.
  • As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is tried in the fire;  ♦ he is a shield to all who trust in him. (Psalm 18.1,6,7,10-14,28,29,31)

Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning is now

and shall be for ever. Amen.

 

This opening prayer may be said

 

That this evening may be holy, good and peaceful, let us pray with one heart and mind.

 Silence is kept.

 As our evening prayer rises before you, O God, so may your mercy come down upon us to cleanse our hearts and set us free to sing your praise now and for ever.  All   Amen.

READ MORE

Clipart-Email-11451803 Zoom

Quiet Evening Worship

Leonard Doolan is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Quiet Evening Worship

Time: May 6, 2020 06:00 PM Athens

        Every week on Wed, until Jun 24, 2020, 8 occurrence(s)

        May 6, 2020 06:00 PM

        May 13, 2020 06:00 PM

        May 20, 2020 06:00 PM

        May 27, 2020 06:00 PM

        Jun 3, 2020 06:00 PM

        Jun 10, 2020 06:00 PM

        Jun 17, 2020 06:00 PM

        Jun 24, 2020 06:00 PM

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.

Weekly: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZYscu-srTgiGdan92hhquvzqHM-PkAXURze/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGqrz4sHteWuBqFRpwQBY_4M-jztnZHjadckka3CyhCdxXsJ8pvf4J0MeDl

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82156433832?pwd=TklPaG93QWhYSXVqZUpnSlBGSGs4dz09

Meeting ID: 821 5643 3832

Password: 5fqrhj

One tap mobile

+12532158782,,82156433832#,,1#,328719# US (Tacoma)

+13017158592,,82156433832#,,1#,328719# US (Germantown)

READ MORE

The Lord is my Shepherd blog

The Anglican Church in Greece 4th Sunday of Easter (May 3rd 2020)

Welcome to our Eastertide Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  After the worship we can have a short chat together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

From the week beginning 4th May there will be a weekly Bible Study and a mid-week evening quiet reflection service. The login address for these will appear on our website. The Sunday worship login address remains the same throughout May.

 

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

      All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

O praise ye the Lord! praise Him in the height;
Rejoice in His Word, ye angels of light;
Ye heavens, adore Him by Whom ye were made,
And worship before Him in brightness arrayed.

 

O praise ye the Lord! Praise Him upon earth,
In tuneful accord, ye sons of new birth;
Praise Him Who hath brought you His grace from above,
Praise Him Who hath taught you to sing of His love.

 

O praise ye the Lord! All things that give sound;
Each jubilant chord re-echo around;
Loud organs, His glory forth tell in deep tone,
And sweet harp, the story of what He hath done.

 

O praise ye the Lord! Thanksgiving and song
To Him be outpoured all ages along!
For love in creation, for Heaven restored,
For grace of salvation, O praise ye the Lord!

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins.

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon:  Lord Jesus, you feed us with the living bread.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

He is risen

Easter 3 Service

Happy Easter! Welcome to our Easter 3 Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  When we begin our worship on your screen with your mouse/or on your pad find the microphone icon and click on it to ensure your voice is muted – many voices at one time don’t work. However if you are leading any part of the service remember to turn it back on again! After the worship we can have a short chat and coffee together. The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

      All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

Ye choirs of new Jerusalem,
Your sweetest notes employ,
The Paschal victory to hymn
In strains of holy joy.

For Judah’s Lion bursts His chains,
Crushing the serpent’s head;
And cries aloud through death’s domains
To wake th’imprison’d dead.

Devouring depths of hell
Their prey at His command restore;
His ransom’d hosts pursue their way
Where Jesus goes before.

Triumphant in His glory now<
To Him all power is given;
To Him in one communion bow
All saints in earth and heaven.


All glory to the Father be,
All glory to the Son,
All glory, Holy Ghost, to Thee,
While endless ages run.
Alleluia! Amen.

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

 Silence

 

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins.

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon:  Lord Jesus, you feed us with the living bread.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 

Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

Clipart-Email-11451803 Zoom

Easter 3 Zoom Meeting

Leonard Doolan is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Eastertide Worship

Time: Apr 26, 2020 10:00 AM Athens

        Every week on Sun, until Jun 7, 2020, 7 occurrence(s)

        Apr 26, 2020 10:00 AM

        May 3, 2020 10:00 AM

        May 10, 2020 10:00 AM

        May 17, 2020 10:00 AM

        May 24, 2020 10:00 AM

        May 31, 2020 10:00 AM

        Jun 7, 2020 10:00 AM

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.

Weekly: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZIpf-mgrz0tE9Cmnw26MGPvXdY_xx8xwoFd/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGuqjMqEtWTtxCDRpwABoqgc_zzmCFaj_p-kRHyUXZ-RTPgDuZ7DapnSMDH

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86480816794?pwd=aHU1M0lVL2l4N2U2RS8rTWhuclRXQT09

Meeting ID: 864 8081 6794

Password: 482372

He is risen

Order of Service for Easter 2 Zoom Meeting 19 April 2020

Happy Easter! Welcome to our Easter 2 Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom.  When we begin our worship on your screen with your mouse/or on your pad find the microphone icon and click on it to ensure your voice is muted – many voices at one time don’t work. However if you are leading any part of the service remember to turn it back on again! After the worship we can have a short chat and coffee together. Today, of course, is Easter Sunday for the Orthodox. Καλό Πάσχα.

 

The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

      All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

 

1 This joyful Eastertide
away with sin and sadness!
our Lord, the crucified
has filled our hearts with gladness:
Had Christ, who once was slain,
not burst his three-day prison
our faith would be in vain
but now has Christ arisen,
arisen, arisen, arisen.

         2 My being shall rejoice
secure within God’s keeping,
until the trumpet voice
shall wake us from our sleeping:
Chorus

3 Death’s waters lost their chill
when Jesus crossed the river;
his love shall reach me still,
his mercy is for ever:
Chorus

 

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins.

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon:  Lord Jesus, you feed us with the living bread.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

He is risen

Easter Sunday Service 12th April 2020

The Anglican Church in Greece

 

Happy Easter! Welcome to our Easter Sunday worship brought to our homes by Zoom. Some of you may have created Easter Gardens on your balcony, or in your own garden. Please do take a photograph of this and share it with our parish Facebook or if you have made something moveable you might want to have it beside or behind you as you join the worship.

 

When we begin our worship on your screen with your mouse/or on your pad find the microphone icon and click on it to ensure your voice is silenced – many voices at one time don’t work. However if you are leading any part of the service remember to turn it back on again! After the worship we can have a short chat and coffee or an Easter glass of something (!) together.

 

The hymns and other shared texts you might know by heart, or you can print out this service, or you may have a hymn book at home, or you may be happy to listen in silence.

 

Priest: Alleluia! Christ is risen

      All:     He is risen indeed. Alleluia!

Jesus lives! Thy terrors now

Can no longer, death, appall us;
Jesus lives! by this we know
Thou, O grave, canst not enthrall us.
Alleluia!

Jesus lives! henceforth is death
But the gate of life immortal;
This shall calm our trembling breath,
When we pass its gloomy portal.
Alleluia!

Jesus lives! for us he died;
Then, alone to Jesus living,
Pure in heart may we abide,
Glory to our Saviour giving.
Alleluia!

Jesus lives! our hearts know well
Naught from us his love shall sever;
Life, nor death, nor powers of hell
Tear us from his keeping ever.
Alleluia!

Jesus lives! to him the throne
Over all the world is given:
May we go where he has gone,
Rest and reign with him in heaven.
Alleluia!

The priest then welcomes the people of God and the deacon leads us into Confession.

Silence

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

Deacon: Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins.

Christe eleison

All:          Christe eleison

Deacon:  Lord Jesus, you feed us with the living bread.

Kyrie eleison

All:          Kyrie eleison

 Absolution: May the God of love and power forgive you and free you from your sins, heal and strengthen you by his Spirit, and raise you to new life in Christ our Lord.   Amen.

READ MORE

EASTER SUN PIX

Easter Vigil Liturgy April 2020

He is risen

St. Paul’s Athens

 

We gather outside in the church garden for the Service of Light.

Introduction

Blessing of the new Paschal Candle

Priest:  May the light of Christ, rising in glory, banish all darkness from our hearts and minds.

As we enter the church with the priest carrying the candle:

Priest: The light of Christ   All: Thanks be to God  (three times as the peoples candles are lit.

When the Paschal Candle has been placed in the stand the priest sings:

The Exultet  (this is an ancient hymn that records God’s saving action in Christ)

Priest: As we await the risen Christ, let us hear the record of God’s saving deeds in history recalling how he saved his people in ages past, and in the fulness of time, sent his Son to be our Redeemer: and let us pray that through this Easter celebration God may bring to perfection in each of us the saving work he has begun. As we keep vigil we receive and respond to scriptural readings that tell of ‘renewal’ that comes from God.

Readings: (please sit) Between each reading the priest prays a Collect.

Genesis 1,1-2,4

Exodus 12, 1-24

Ezekiel 36, 24-28

Easter Acclamation (please stand)

Priest:  Alleluia, Christ is risen.

All:       He is risen indeed, Alleluia.

 

1.Glory in the highest                   2.  Jesus Christ is risen

to the God of heaven                    God the Father’s  Son

Peace to all your people               With the Holy Spirit

through the earth be given.        You are Lord a lone.

Mighty God and Father,               Lamb once killed for sinners,

Thanks and praise we bring         all our guilt to bear;

Singing alleluia                               Show us now your mercy

To our heavenly king.                  now receive our prayer.

 

3.Christ the world’s true Saviour,

High and holy one

Seated now and reigning

from your Father’s throne:

Lord and God we praise you!

Highest heaven adores:

In the Father’s glory,

all the praise be yours.

 

Priest: Let us pray that we may reign with the risen Christ in glory

Lord of all life and power, who through the mighty resurrection of your Son

overcame the old order of sin and death to make all things new in him:

grant that we, being dead to sin and alive to you in Jesus Christ, may reign with him

in glory; to whom with you and the Holy Spirit be praise and honour, glory and might,

now and in all eternity. Amen.

New Testament Reading:  (please sit)  Romans 6, 3-11

 

Gospel Hymn   120         Thine be the glory

 

Priest:  Alleluia, Jesus Christ is risen from the dead

All:       Alleluia.

Priest: He has defeated the powers of death

All:       Alleluia.

Priest: The Lord be with you

All:       and also with you

Priest:  Hear the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to St. Mark (Mark 16, 1-8)

All:       Glory you, O Lord

At the end

Priest:  This is the gospel of the Lord

All:       Praise to you, O Christ.

 

Please turn towards the font

 

     Renewal of Baptismal belief

In baptism, God calls us out of darkness into his marvellous light. To follow Christ means dying to sin and rising to new life with him. Therefore I ask:

Priest: Do you reject the devil and all rebellion against God?

All:      I reject them.

Priest: Do you renounce the deceit and corruption of evil?

All:      I renounce them.

Priest: Do you repent of the sins that separate us from God and neighbour?

All:      I repent of them.

Priest: Do you turn to Christ as Saviour?

All:      I turn to Christ.

Priest: Do you submit to Christ as Lord?

All:      I submit to Christ.

Priest: Do you come to Christ, the way, the truth and the life?

All:      I come to Christ.

Sanctification of the baptismal water

Priest: We praise you, loving Father, for the gift of your Son Jesus. He was baptized in the River     Jordan, where your Spirit came upon him and revealed him as the Son you love. He sent his followers to baptize all who turn to him. Now, Father, we ask you to bless this water, that those who are baptized in it may be cleansed in the water of life, and, filled with your Spirit, may know that they are loved as your children, safe in Christ for ever.  Amen.

Creed

Priest:  Do you believe and trust in God the Father?

All:        I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

Priest:   Do you believe and trust in his Son Jesus Christ?

All:        I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate,  was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead.

Priest: Do you believe and trust in the Holy Spirit?

All:      I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

 

We are then reminded of our baptism by the sprinkling of waters from the font

 Peace:  The risen Christ came and stood among his disciples and said, Peace be with you. Then were they glad when they saw the risen Lord. Alleluia.

The peace of the Lord be always with you

All:         and also with you. Alleluia

Hymn:   110   Jesus Christ is risen today

 

Priest: Be present, be present Lord Jesus Christ, our risen high priest: make yourself known in the breaking of bread.  Amen.

 

The Great Thanksgiving Prayer ( Please remain standing for this)

Priest:  The Lord be with you

All:        and also with you

Priest:  Lift up your hearts

All:        We lift them to the Lord

Priest:  Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

All:        It is right to give thanks and praise

The priest then continues singing the prayer to which we all listen with prayerful hearts until

‘for evermore praising you and singing’…

All: Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of hosts, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Glory be to thee O Lord most high. Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Priest: Lord, you are holy indeed, the source of all holiness; grant that by the power of your Holy Spirit, and according to your holy will these gifts of bread and wine may be to us the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ;

who, in the same night that he was betrayed, took bread and gave you thanks; he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat; this is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me.

In the same way, after supper he took the cup and gave you thanks; he gave it to them, saying: Drink this, all of you; this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.

 

Priest :  Great is the mystery of faith

All:  Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again.

And so, Father, calling to mind his death on the cross, his perfect sacrifice made once for the sins of the whole world; rejoicing in his mighty resurrection and glorious ascension, and looking for his coming in glory, we celebrate this memorial of our redemption.

As we offer you this our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving, we bring before you this bread and this cup and we thank you for counting us worthy to stand in your presence and serve you.

Send the Holy Spirit on your people and gather into one in your kingdom all who share this one bread and one cup, so that we, in the company of the Holy Mother of God, St. Paul, and all the saints, may praise and glorify you for ever, through Jesus Christ our Lord;

by whom, and with whom, and in whom, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory be yours, almighty Father, for ever and ever.

All:   Amen. Alleluia!

 

The Lord’s Prayer:  (to be prayed in your own language)

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come;  thy will be done; on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Priest: We break this bread to share in the body of the risen Christ.

All:       Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.

 

Invitation to Holy Communion

Priest:  Alleluia! Christ our Passover has been sacrificed for us     Communion

All:       Therefore let us keep the feast. Alleluia!

 

Sung:   O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. (x2)

             O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, grant us peace.

All baptized Christians may come forward to receive the body and blood of Christ. If you wish you may receive a blessing. Please let the Sides-people guide you forward.  

Communion Hymn:  118  The Lord is risen indeed

Priest:  God of life, who for our redemption gave your only-begotten Son to the death of the

Cross, and by his glorious resurrection delivered us from the power of our enemy: grant

us so to die daily to sin, that we evermore live with him in the joy of his risen life:

through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

 

All: You have opened to us the Scriptures, O Christ, and you have made yourself known in the breaking of bread. Abide with us, we pray, that blessed by your royal presence, we may walk with you all the days of our life, and at its end behold you in the glory of the eternal Trinity, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

 

Post Communion Hymn:    121  This joyful Eastertide

Priest:     God, who through the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ has given us the victory, give you joy and peace in your faith. And the blessing…

Priest:     Go in the peace of Christ. Alleluia! Alleluia!

All:           Thanks be to God. Alleluia! Alleluia!

 

sermon news

Good Friday Services from Corfu

Dear All,
In preparation for Good Friday, we have posted two services at HTC Online: i). a service of meditations for Good Friday and, ii). a service of the Stations of the Cross. Both services are available in the three formats, video, audio and a document.

I would like to suggest that we set aside as much of the three hours between 12 – 3 pm tomorrow as a devotional space as we can. Take time again to reflect on the incredible depth of Jesus’ love for us and to tell Him what He means to us. Each service lasts around 40 minutes and is designed be used as during that time.

The link is here: https://sites.google.com/view/holytrinitycorfuonline/home, then select Services for Good Friday.

Services for Easter Sunday will available soon, as well as our live service – God willing!!

Please remember if you need any help or would like to talk through anything, just let me know – 6986538755, julesjwilson@gmail.com.

With every blessing,

Jules.

 

Rev Julian Wilson.

Chaplain, Holy Trinity Corfu.

21, L. Mavili Street,

Corfu

49100.

Phone: (0030) 698 653 8755

julesjwilson@gmail.com

www.holytrinitycorfu.net/

Good Friday pix

St. Paul’s Anglican Church Liturgy for Good Friday April 2020

We gather at the Altar of Repose in the church garden. The Sacrament was placed here last night and is the ‘pre-sanctified’ bread for today’s Holy Communion.

The Clergy and people enter the church  in silence, the deacon carrying the Sacrament of the ’pre-sanctified’ and placing it on the far altar.

Priest: Almighty Father, look with mercy on this your family for which our Lord  Jesus Christ was content to be betrayed and given up into the hands of wicked men and to suffer death upon the cross: who is alive and glorified with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

 

First Reading: (please sit)   Isaiah 52, 13- 53, 12

See, my servant shall prosper; he shall be exalted and lifted up, and shall be very high. Just as there were many who were astonished at him—so marred was his appearance, beyond human semblance, and his form beyond that of mortals—so he shall startle many nations; kings shall shut their mouths because of him; for that which had not been told them they shall see, and that which they had not heard they shall contemplate.  Who has believed what we have heard? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by others; a man of suffering and acquainted with infirmity; and as one from whom others hide their faces he was despised, and we held him of no account. Surely he has borne our infirmities and carried our diseases; yet we accounted him stricken, struck down by God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have all turned to our own way, and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. By a perversion of justice he was taken away. Who could have imagined his future? For he was cut off from the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people. They made his grave with the wicked and his tomb with the rich, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth. Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him with pain. When you make his life an offering for sin, he shall see his offspring, and shall prolong his days; through him the will of the Lord shall prosper. Out of his anguish he shall see light; he shall find satisfaction through his knowledge. The righteous one, my servant, shall make many righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore I will allot him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he poured out himself to death, and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Reader: This is the word of the Lord

All:         Thanks be to God

READ MORE

EASTER SUN PIX

JOIN A ZOOM MEETING FOR EASTER SUNDAY

STOP PRESS!
Leonard Doolan is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Please join us in Athens (God and technology willing) for our Easter Sunday worship. You can join the ‘meeting’ from 10.00am but the service will begin at 10.15 which is our normal service time here. Afterwards we can make a coffee and have a chat.

You will see that this facility is available each Sunday until the end of May by which time I hope we will be able to meet together in ‘social proximity’. Please also see attached the order of service that you might like to print out before Sunday.
Just click on Join Zoom Meeting which you will see just below, and follow a couple of easy clicks to join with us. If you have trouble joining you can find at the bottom of this message the meeting number and password. Hopefully you won’t need it.

Topic: Sunday Worship

Time: Apr 12, 2020 10:00 AM Athens

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/227360090…
Meeting ID: 227 360 090
Password: 422061

Every week on Sun, until May 24, 2020, 7 occurrence(s)

Apr 12, 2020 10:00 AM

Apr 19, 2020 10:00 AM

Apr 26, 2020 10:00 AM

May 3, 2020 10:00 AM

May 10, 2020 10:00 AM

May 17, 2020 10:00 AM

May 24, 2020 10:00 AM

 

Washing Feet

Meditation for Holy Thursday 2020

Collect of the day:   God our Father, you have invited us to share in the supper which your Son gave to his Church to proclaim his death until he comes; may he nourish us by his presence, and unite us in his love; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

‘Now before the festival of the Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart from this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The devil had already put it into the heart of Judas son of Simon Iscariot to betray him. And during supper Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God, got up from the table, took off his outer robe, and tied a towel around himself. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus answered, “You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” Peter said to him, “You will never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no share with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” Jesus said to him, “One who has bathed does not need to wash, except for the feet, but is entirely clean. And you are clean, though not all of you.” For he knew who was to betray him; for this reason he said, “Not all of you are clean.” After he had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord—and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.  When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once. Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’ I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13, 1-17, 31-35

READ MORE

Washing Feet

Maundy Thursday Worship 2020 St Paul’s Athens

Holy (Maundy) Thursday Liturgy

 Entrance Hymn   272   All for Jesus

 

Priest: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

The Lord be with you.

     All:      and also with you

 The priest then welcomes the people of God and introduces the Liturgy of the day.

Deacon: Have mercy on us, O God in your great goodness.

Kyrie Eleison.

All:          Kyrie Eleison

Deacon: Against you only have we sinned

Christ Eleison.

All:         Chrise Eleison

Deacon:Purge us from our sins and we shall be clean

Kyrie Eleison

All:         Kyrie Eleison

 

All:         Holy God,

               Holy and strong,

               Holy and immortal,

               Have mercy upon us.

 

Priest:    Almighty God, who forgives all those who truly repent, have mercy upon you; pardon and deliver you from all your sins, strengthen you in all goodness, and bring to everlasting life, through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Gloria

1.Glory in the highest                2.Jesus Christ is risen

to the God of heaven                   God the Father’s  Son

Peace to all your people              With the Holy Spirit

through the earth be given.        You are Lord alone.

Mighty God and Father,               Lamb once killed for sinners,

Thanks and praise we bring        all our guilt to bear;

Singing alleluia                              Show us now your mercy

To our heavenly king.                  now receive our prayer.

 

3.Christ the world’s true Saviour,

High and holy one

Seated now and reigning

from your Father’s throne:

Lord and God we praise you!

Highest heaven adores:

In the Father’s glory,

all the praise be yours.

 

Collect:  Let us pray  (remain standing)

God our Father, you have invited us to share in the supper which your Son gave to his Church to proclaim his death until he comes: may he nourish us by his presence, and unite us in his love; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

 READ MORE

Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday Worship – 5th April 2020

The Anglican Church in Greece

Palm Sunday  (April 5th)  

 

Great (Holy) Week begins today in the ‘Latin Calendar’. We would usually begin outside with the blessing of palm crosses and process into church. On account of the Corona virus the church of St. Paul’s is closed for worship. This printed text can be used by you at home to help guide you through this week. On the website other Holy Week liturgies and voice recordings of sermons are available. 

 Liturgy of Palms (in the Garden)

 All:  Hosanna to the Son of David, the King of Israel. Blessed is he who comes in the name of      the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.

Priest:  Behold your king comes to you, O Zion, meek and lowly, sitting upon an ass. Ride on in the cause of truth and for the sake of justice. Your throne is the throne of God, it endures for ever; and the sceptre of your kingdom is a righteous sceptre. You have loved righteousness and hated evil. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness above your fellows.

All:   Hosanna to the Son of David, the King of Israel. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

Priest: Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, during Lent we have been preparing by works of love and self-sacrifice for the celebration of our Lord’s death and resurrection. Today we come together to begin this solemn celebration in union with the Church throughout the world. Christ enters his own city to complete his work as our Saviour, to suffer, to die, and to rise again. Let us go with him in faith and love, so that, united with him in his sufferings, we may share his risen life.

The people hold up palms or branches while this prayer is said by the priest 

God our Saviour, whose Son Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem as Messiah to suffer and to die; let these palms +  be for us signs of his victory and grant that we who bear them in his name may ever hail him as our King, and follow him in the way that leads to eternal life; who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

We now process around the church, and as we do so we sing:

We have a King who rides a donkey, we have a King who rides a donkey

We have a King who rides a donkey, and his name is Jesus.

Jesus the King is with us, Jesus us the King is with us, Jesus the King is with us

Riding on a donkey.

READ MORE

Bible Study Blog

A Letter from Fr Leonard to the St Paul’s Community

The Anglican Church in Greece (Church of England) St. Paul’s Church

1st April 2020

Dear Friends,

I hope that you are well, and keeping safe under these extraordinary circumstances. We feel bereft of St. Paul’s church for our worship, and the proximity of friends and fellow worshippers. If you have the need for a conversation with someone please don’t hesitate to phone me or Deacon Chris. These are challenging times, and although ‘social isolation’ is for the greater good, we are not created to be alone, and the church is a ‘body’ or a fellowship, not a building. We will get through this however, and we know already that the cost will be great. We pray daily for the sufferers of COVID-19, and those who have died. We pray also for those in our health care system at this demanding time for them, and Lynne and I have appeared a couple of times on the balcony on Sunday evenings to clap with others in the street, for the gratitude we have for all health care workers. We should be thankful too for those who keep our food supplies going, right through the food chain. The staff at Kritikos in Irodotou have been great with us while we have had a complete 14 day quarantine imposed on us because we flew back into Greece on March 22nd after my dad’s funeral.

READ MORE

Bible Study Blog

A short order of service for Praying daily at home in the morning and evening

+Both morning and evening begin with:

Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy  Spirit. Amen.

 +Morning only:

Come, let us sing to the Lord:

Let us shout for joy to the rock of our salvation.

Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving:

And raise a loud shout to him with psalms.

For  the Lord God is a great God:

And a great King above all  gods.

In his hands are the depths of the earth;

And the heights of the hills are his also.

The sea is his for he made it;

And his hands have moulded the dry land.

Come, let us bow down and bend the knee;

And kneel before the Lord our Maker.

For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture

And  the sheep of his hand.

+Evening only:

Behold now, bless the Lord,

All you servants of the Lord;

You that stand by night in the house of the Lord.

Lift up your hands in the holy place

And bless the Lord:

The Lord who made heaven and earth

Bless you out of Zion.

 READ MORE

CHRIS NEWS

ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH ATHENS DIOCESE IN EUROPE Everything We Touch – A Mothers’ Union Service for Mothering Sunday

Welcome

Welcome to this service for Mothering Sunday, a celebration, not only to thank God for all Mothers but to thank and recognise all those who nurture us through our lives, including God.

The work of the Mothers’ Union around the world is about nurturing individuals, groups and communities by enabling them to improve their quality of life and providing opportunities for communication and reconciliation within families. The MU facilitates a network of parenting groups, provides a range of support for families and produces resources on issues important to adults and children.

Leader: ‘As truly as God is our Father, so truly is God our Mother, and he revealed that in everything, and especially in these sweet words where he says: I am he; that is to say: I am he, the power and goodness of fatherhood; I am he, the wisdom and the lovingness of motherhood; I am he, the light and grace which is all blessed love; I am he, the Trinity …’ (The Showings, Long Text, Mother Julian of Norwich, 14th century)

Worship Focus

You are asked to light a candle and put it in a window or place where it can be seen at 9pm greek time tonight. Please extinguish it when you got to bed. This is an initiative asked of us by Abps of  Canterbury and York. ( see Church of England website)

Nurturing God,

we light this candle

in recognition of the great care and love

you have for each one of us.

All Nurturing God,

we praise and thank you.

Nurturing God,

we light this candle

in thanksgiving for all mothers,

for all they do, or once did,

for all they give, or once gave

and for all they mean and will always mean.

All: Nurturing God,

we praise and thank you.

Nurturing God,

we light this candle

for all families

throughout the world.

All Nurturing God,

we praise and thank you.

Nurturing God,

we light this candle

for the family of the Church,

here and everywhere. And for all peoples.

All Nurturing God,

we praise and thank you.

Nurturing God,

we light this candle

for all who nurture

and encourage others may we do the same as we journey together as one..

All Nurturing God,

we praise and thank you

READ MORE

sermon news

CORONOVIRUS RESPONSE – ST. PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH ATHENS

Due to the widespread affect of the current Coronovirus outbreak the Liturgies at St. Paul’s are cancelled for the next two weeks -22nd March and 29th March.

This includes the Wednesday Liturgies.

The Annual Meeting due to be held on 29th is postponed until a future date.

ALL CONCERTS booked in St. Paul’s are cancelled until the end of March when we will make an assessment of the situation.

To find out if services are resuming on April 5th please check our website and Facebook page.

www.anglicanchurchathens.gr

https://www.facebook.com/AnglicanAthens/

@AthensAnglican

sermon news

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING CONCERTS AT ST PAUL’

PLEASE NOTE that all CONCERTS at St Paul’s have been cancelled by their Organisers with immediate effect.  This is in line with Government Policy.

Please keep an eye on our website and Facebook pages for further information and for details of when the concerts will re-commence.  We apologise to everyone for their disappointment and pray that these measures will be effective in helping to eradicate the virus so that we can welcome visitors to St Paul’s once again.

sermon news

St. Paul’s Anglican Church response to the Coronavirus

St. Paul’s Anglican Church response to the Coronavirus

At public worship:

  • Sanitize hands on entering and leaving the building
  • Do not shake hands or do ‘kissy-kissy’ greetings
  • Have gel or wipes with you at all times
  • Bread only distributed at Holy Communion

We will follow Government directives about any church closures. The Wednesday Liturgy is suspended for the next few weeks anyway.

If St. Paul’s has to close, and no worship can be provided there will always be a weekly sermon posted on the website – in printed form, and where possible, a voice recording. You can access these also on Facebook.

There is a very good ‘Daily Prayer’ app that you could download for free, and you will get Anglican Morning and Evening Prayer provided. It is very simple to use.

At home you might set aside time each day for some quiet reflection and prayer. Keep in touch with the elderly and in particular any known to you who live alone. At present shops that deliver food can stay open.

Pray for one another, and all who are suffering worldwide from this virus – including those whose livelihoods are affected eg. tourism

www.anglicanchurchathens.gr     https://www.facebook.com/AnglicanAthens/

@AthensAnglican

Bish blog

Bishop Robert visits the Anglican Church in Greece

The Right Reverend Dr. Robert Innes, Bishop of Gibraltar in Europe, known to us as Bishop Robert, arrived in Athens on Tuesday 18th February, accompanied by his wife Helen. On the Tuesday evening they attended a reception at the new Swedish Centre in Plaka hosted by Father Bjorn and subsequently visited Holy Trinity, Corfu and St. Andrew’s, Patras.

In Athens they attended a formal dinner for the leaders of several denominations, scholars and academics. This was hosted by H.E. Kate Smith, British Ambassador to Greece. During the visit Bishop Robert met with His Beatitude Geronomis, Archbishop of Athens and All Greece, and presented him with a specially commissioned icon of Father Sofronios of Essex who, as a monk from Mount Athos, travelled to England and founded a monastery there. A visit to Hestia Hellas, the centre for migrants and refugees suffering from trauma which is supported by St. Paul’s, also took place.

READ MORE

The first Community Connect Coffee Morning of 2020

Wednesday 12th February saw the inauguration of the new Swedish Centre as the venue for our Community Connect coffee mornings. The address is Sotiris 7, Plaka, beside the lovely little Church of the Metamorphosis and very near to St. Paul’s. The building is traditional in many ways, with sturdy wooden staircases between floors and windows with wooden surrounds overlooking Plaka’s streets. About 50 people were present to catch up with news after the Christmas break, celebrate St. Valentine’s Day and enjoy the Vassilopitta, blessed by Father Leonard. As usual, Anne and her helpers did sterling work, setting up in new surroundings and working out what went where. The atmosphere was cosy and welcoming and we once again felt that we were in a little bit of Sweden.

C&N BLOG

Thank you St Paul’s

Dear friends

Through our Facebook and Web pages we’d like to thank you all for the beautiful ornament which you so kindly presented to us on our last day at St Paul’s.
It has been our pleasure and an honour to serve the community and in turn we thank you for the warmth and friendship that has been extended to us.  We believe that you will be a hard act to follow as we look for a new Church Community to belong to.

 

Your statue now has pride of place in our sitting room and will serve as a constant reminder of our time in Athens as well as a tug on our heartstrings to come back to Greece where we have both left a little piece of our hearts.

 

Please share this with anyone who might not be able to view this as we extend to them and to you all our sincere thanks.

With love from Nigel and Caroline xxx

 

Jerusalem blog
Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

A Pilgrimage to the Holy Land 7 – 16 September 2020

Led by Fr Leonard Doolan, Senior Chaplain Athens

10 Days based in Jerusalem and Galilee

 

“It is always very moving to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, there is so much to see and experience and learn together. St Jerome said: ‘Five gospels record the life of Jesus. Four you will find in books and the one you will find in the land they call Holy. Read the fifth gospel and the world of the four will open to you”

Organised by McCabe Pilgrimages, an organisation who has been running these tours for many years, the trip will entail a 6 night stay at the Golden Walls hotel in Jerusalem visiting many Biblical and Historical sights such as The Mt of Olives, Bethlehem, The Via Dolorosa and the Dead Sea.

Thereafter a Three night stay at the Ron BeachHotel by the Sea of Galilee with visits to places associated with Jesus’ early life and ministry.

For more information and full details of the programme please click here

Christingle Blog

CHRISTINGLE SERVICE AT ST PAUL’S

This Sunday’s 10.15 Liturgy will be a Christingle Service and we hope many families will attend. For those who have not attended a Christingle service before here are some details about what it’s all about:

The symbolism of Christingle

Each element of a Christingle has a special meaning and helps to tell the Christian story:

The orange represents the world
The red ribbon (or tape) symbolises the love and blood of Christ
The four cocktail sticks represent the four corners of the earth
The sweets and dried fruit represent all of God’s creations,
The lit candle represents Jesus’s light in the world, bringing hope to people living in darkness.

It is traditional at a Christingle Service to bring along a present for underprivileged children and this year we will be collecting new toys for Hestia Hellas.

Special Services Blog

Special Services at St Paul’s during December 2019

From traditional to contemporary, there is something for everyone to enjoy at St Paul’s this December.

Our festive Christmas singalong on Sunday 8th December, is a hit with the whole family with songs both old and new and traditional carols being sung all washed down with warm mulled wine and Panetone.  Fr Leonard conducting “The Twelve Days of Christmas” is the real highlight of the evening.  There will be a 5€ entry charge for those aged 16yrs+  and a retiring collection.  Arrive early to obtain a seat!

 

Our Choral Evensong  with the Scola Cantorum takes place on 22nd December and the traditional service of Lessons and Carols on Christmas Eve brings a more reflective side to the season.

 

There will be no Singalong Messiah this year, but save your voices for next December – we’ll be back!

 

Check out St Paul’s Calendar here for full details of dates and times

 

St.-Paul's 2019-1100x600pxls.png Web Blog featured image

66th Annual Christmas Bazaar – 24th November 2019

Our 66th Annual Christmas Bazaar will take place on Sunday 24th November at Aegli Zappiou, Athens, from 11.00 hrs to 15.30 hrs. Fantastic prizes to be won, delicious food, wine, books, Gifts, Calendars, Tea Towels, Toys, Good as New Clothes, and many more stalls.

Fr Christmas will be arriving at 12.00 so make sure you don’t miss him!

Once again we are asking for your help to make our Christmas Bazaar a success. We need:
> Small Christmas cakes, cakes and biscuits of any kind for our cake stall.
>Sandwiches and Cakes for Refreshments
>Tins or Boxes of Tea
>Home Made preserves & jams
>Books, CD’s, DVD’s, Toys (only complete jigsaws please)
>Jewellery, stationery, Christmas Decorations
>Bric-a-Brac
>Gifts
>Small prizes for the Tombola, eg perfumes, toiletries, wine, small gifts
>Good quality 2nd hand clothes.

 

COLLECTION OF GOODS AT ST PAUL’S CHURCH, FILELLINON 27, SYNTAGMA, FROM SUNDAY 17/11/19 TO SATURDAY 23/11/19 BETWEEN 10.00 AND 13.30 HRS.

Do come along – everyone welcome at this happy and enjoyable event.

 

 

 

Evensong blog

29th Choral Evensong Sunday 27th October 2019

29th Choral Evensong at St. Paul’s Anglican Church on Sunday, October 27th, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Philellinon 27, 10557 Syntagma.

Cantores & Cappella Sancti Pauli conducted by Iason Marmaras

Minister: The Reverend Canon Leonard Doolan

free admission

 

schola.gr/eve

 

The Renaissance Choral Evensong services at St Paul’s are organised by the Schola Cantorum Sancti Pauli, the Athens Centre for Early Music (of the Ατhens Conservatory), and St Paul’s Anglican Church.

The Cappella Sancti Pauli, under the direction of Iason Marmaras, sing a series of Choral Evensong services that aim to revive the musical and liturgical practice at Cathedrals and Chapels during the Renaissance, but also the music as experienced by musicians in those times, seeing the music as a functional part of the liturgy, rather than as a building block for concerts.

Harvest Poster Blog

St Paul’s Harvest Festival Kokotos Winery

Everyone is welcome to come and celebrate our annual Harvest Festival on Sunday 27th October at the Kokotos Winery in Stamata.

There is a free coach leaving St Paul’s at 10.00hrs Sharp, (booking required). The service commences at 11.00 hrs, followed by wine tasting and an opportunity to purchase wines both before and during  the buffet lunch, cost 10€.

This is always a very enjoyable day out for all the family and a chance to get out of the town and into the countryside for the day. We have been very lucky with the weather over the past few years and pray that this current spell of warm sunshine will last for another week.

Kokotos Winery is a great friend of St Paul’s and we are very thankful that they allow us to celebrate our harvest festival so fittingly amongst the vines and grape harvest of their Winery.  Of course the wine-tasting is an added attraction to the day out but set in beautiful grounds it is an opportunity for the Chaplaincy to come together and enjoy themselves.

 

For more information and to reserve a place on the coach (first come first served) please contact:

Mrs Lynn Stavrou on:  6938 325088, or 2111 838414

 

For more information about the Kokotos Winery please click here

adopt-far-left

Archdeaconry Synod 2019 Report from Athens.

The Athens chaplaincy has been richly blessed since September last year with the presence of the Revd. James Harris, his wife, May, and children Grace and Rose. Fr. James had come to the end of his English curacy, and before exploring where he might wish to be a parish priest, he took the bold step of coming to Athens to work in the ministry team. This was all entirely at the family’s own expense, so it was a very sacrificial year for them. Sadly, in the middle of July we said our farewells and they are now back in Bristol.

 

Fr. James adds:

“Our year in Greece has been a formative adventure for us as a whole family: we have learned much, enjoyed much, and received much. A connection has been established with this country, and with St Paul’s Church in particular, which we are sure will last long into the future and shape the rest of our lives and ministry. As a priest, this year has opened my eyes to the challenges and opportunities of the world Church (both within and beyond Anglicanism) and helped me reassess the privileges of, and priorities for, Anglicanism in England. Although it was hard to say goodbye to many people who had become an important part of our lives, we feel we are called now to bring back our learning and experiences to the UK and invest them into what we hope will be a long term season ‘at home’.”

READ MORE

Candle stand blog

ST Paul’s has a new Prayer Candle Stand

A new prayer candle stand has been generously donated to us by Metropolitan Gabriel, Bishop of Nea Ionia and Philadelphia (here in Athens).  We are very grateful for his continued support to us.   When it is in place please feel encouraged to come and light a candle before or after the Holy Liturgy or during the week when the church is open.

22nd Evensong BLog

Choral Evensong at St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens

The 28th Choral Evensong takes place at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Philellinon 27, 10557 Syntagma, on Sunday, July 14, 18.30-19.30 hrs.
Collegium & Cappella Sancti Pauli conducted by Iason Marmaras
Minister: The Reverend Canon Leonard Doolan
free admission with retiring collection.

This will be the last Evensong until September so we hope to see many of you there.

www.scholacantorum.gr
https://www.facebook.com/scholacantorum.gr/

 

The Renaissance Choral Evensong services at St Paul’s are organised by the Schola Cantorum Sancti Pauli, the Athens Centre for Early Music (of the Ατhens Conservatory), and St Paul’s Anglican Church.

The choir Cappella Sancti Pauli, under the direction of Iason Marmaras, sing a series of Choral Evensong services that aim to revive the musical and liturgical practice at Cathedrals and Chapels during the Renaissance, but also the music as experienced by musicians in those times, seeing the music as a functional part of the liturgy, rather than as a building block for concerts.

Quiz Evening 7 (1)

Quiz Evenings at St Paul’s

One of the highlights of the darker winter months is the regular Quiz Evening held every month at the Swedish Centre.

With questions set by our indomitable Quiz Master, Jean Mertzanakis, the teams made up of groups of 4 people, can be seen scratching their heads and arguing amongst themselves as they try and recall their general and particular knowledge.

This last season the quiz nights have brought in an amazing 1300 Euros to help the Chaplaincy for which we are very grateful and with a long summer ahead of us, we aim to read and study in order to face a new season of quiz nights with renewed vigour!

 

read more

Bish Ser

Ascension Sunday and visit of Rowan Williams to St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens

Fr L W Doolan

 

They say ‘lightning doesn’t strike twice’. Open for debate, I think.  A few years ago I had the privilege of preaching at St. Mary’s Anglican Cathedral in the centre of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.  The preacher the Sunday before my preaching engagement was none other than one Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury. Follow that.

Well I find that I am in the same situation again. Bishop Rowan Williams preached here last Sunday, so I find myself in a somewhat unenviable situation again. ‘Lightning doesn’t strike twice’.  If I put a positive spin on this, I could be grateful to Rowan Williams as my ‘warm up’ guy.

Bishop Rowan was with us in Athens for 5 days, and we had a varied programme, a programme devised by me to exploit the world-wide prestige of this man, and the esteem with which he is held by the Orthodox Church here in Greece.

He arrived last Saturday night and stayed at the Residence of the British Ambassador. Sunday was set aside for a St. Paul’s focus, with him presiding and preaching at the morning Liturgy, followed by a wonderful church brunch served in our garden – thank you to all who organised this brunch, or who served food, moved tables, cleared away, and brought food to share.

After an afternoon rest we were back to St. Paul’s for Choral Evensong with the Schola Cantorum choir which Bishop Rowan thoroughly enjoyed, and we popped into Plaka to have a drink with the young singers.

READ MORE

Tues eve Blog

TUESDAY EVENING AT ST PHILOTHEI HOUSE

On Tuesday evening, May 28th, in the beautiful surroundings of St. Philothea House in Plaka, a colloquium of distinguished guests joined Bishop Rowan Williams and Fr Leonard for discussion and conversation.  The panel consisted of Orthodox Bishop Gabriel of Nea Ionia, Mr. Costas Carras, President of the environmental group “Europa Nostra”, Dr. Nicki Tsironi, Associate in Byzantine Studies at the Universities of Athens, Harvard and Vancouver, and Mr. Constantine Dimtsas, Director-General of the Orthodox Charitable Foundation, Apostoli. Bishop Rowan then gave a brief description of his thoughts on Being Human after which there were contributions from the panellists.

“Being Human”

  • The modern and technologically biased model of a human being is totally inadequate; a human being is not a “passive lump” – the body – powered by a “machine” – the brain, as proposed by various contemporary writers, but a united and living whole.
  • The “mystery” that is a human being is defined first in relation to our Creator and then to other human beings; we recognize them and are recognized by them; we work together with them and also interact with the physical world around us, not with an eye to self-gain but with reverence for God’s creation. But we should also stand in silence before God, His Creation and our Neighbour – seeing the mystery but not trying to grasp it.
  • Our best model of what God is like is found in Jesus Christ, Who not only used constant examples of the natural and physical world around Him to illustrate His teachings but also exemplified them through His actions. The Orthodox organisation “Apostoli” and the work it does with others, including St. Paul’s, to support those in need not only solves their problems but helps the image of Good in them to be realized.

READ MORE

Bytreeblog

OF WAR AND PEACE

There’s nothing like welcoming a group of inquisitive, exploratory children into a space with which you think you’re familiar, to make you look at it with fresh eyes and realise just how much you take for granted, or have missed altogether.

When the two classes from Year 4 (ages 8-9) at Byron College visited St Paul’s in May, they were delighted to be able to explore the church, and look closely at the various memorials, windows and liturgical furniture which adorn the building. For many it was their first time inside St Paul’s, and for some, the first time in a Christian church of any kind. The questions they asked about the building and its purpose were insightful, thought-provoking and occasionally challenging – but that’s how we all learn, and this Priest was certainly put through his paces and caused to think hard about some of his responses!

The children came as part of their studies on issues relating to war and peace, and specifically the history of the First World War. Having visited the Commonwealth War Graves cemetery at Alimos in the morning, the visit to St Paul’s was an opportunity to think about the names recorded on the various memorials in the church and to wonder who those men were, what had brought them to Greece and why their loved ones had wanted to commemorate their lives – and their deaths – in this particular place.

READ MORE

Group blog

Visit of Bishop Revd. Dr Rowan Williams to Athens

Sunday 26th May 2019

 

Last week St Paul’s Anglican Church in Athens was honoured to receive a visit from the former Archbishop of Canterbury the Reverend The Lord Williams of Oystermouth, Master of Magdalen College Cambridge.  In fact, this was his second visit to Athens having been here in 2010 as Archbishop of Canterbury when he planted an Olive Tree in our garden which continues to flourish.

A very busy schedule had been arranged for the Bishop which commenced with him presiding over the Sunday Liturgy at St Paul’s, assisted by Father Leonard, Father James, Deacon Chris and Father Bjorn of the Scandinavian Church, who played a guitar accompaniment to the choir.

Bishop Rowan who is a good friend of the Chaplaincy, and who has helped Raoul an Iranian refugee in Greece, to finally settle in the UK, delivered a sermon based on the bible readings of the day.  He pointed out that whatever was recorded 2,000 years ago refers to us today as Christians who do our best to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ in a church where, every Sunday, God and his beloved Son are present with us.

READ MORE

wine blog

A TASTE OF SUMMER AT ST PAUL’S

We are delighted to announce that Kokotos Wineries will be hosting an evening of Wine tasting in the beautiful setting of St Paul’s Garden on Thursday 30th May from 18.00 hrs to 21.00hrs.

 

In 1980, George and Anne Kokotos created a vineyard of seven hectares, planting international varieties; Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay. Their aim was to produce wine of the highest quality.

The decisive factors contributing to their success are the excellent terroir, with soil which is poor in organic matter but rich in trace elements, the altitude of 450 metres and the well-drained slopes of the vineyards. These ensure the production of top quality grapes, which ripen fully giving a good concentration of fruit, sugars, flavour and aromas.  They also buy in Savatiano, Roditis & Gewürztraminer grapes from growers within the wider area. Ktima Kokotou produces seven different wines with a total annual production of approximately 50,000 bottles.  They also produce pure, unprocessed honey and olive oil.

 

The vineyards are certified organic and are cultivated with the utmost respect for the environment and the consumer.

 

Entrance fee 5 Euros

 

Anglican Story

The Anglican Story

Father James’ sessions, held at the Swedish Centre or at St. Paul’s after the Wednesday morning service and lasting for about an hour and a half, began prior to Lent with “The God we Worship” – How did we get here? Encountering God-Father, God-Son and God-Holy Spirit. The Lent sessions were based on “The Narrow Way – Marks of the Christian Life”, and included Forgiveness, Sacrifice & Generosity and Community & Mission. In May and June the focus is “Distinctively Anglican – story, ethos and practice”. At the first meeting of this final session, and the first I was able to attend, Father James provided cards giving information about major events in our history and asked participants to put them into date order. Not easy, as you will see from this brief list of examples:

 

200 – first written reference to Christianity in England (in the writings of Origen and Tertullian)

597 – Augustine (later St Augustine of Canterbury) sent by Pope Gregory on his mission to England

1534- the break with Rome

1611 – King James Version of the Bible published

1944 – first woman is ordained to the Priesthood in the Anglican Communion (Rev Florence Li Tim-Oi  in Hong Kong)

2000 – Common Worship is published

2015 – first female Bishop in the Church of England is appointed (Rt Rev Libby Lane, Suffragan Bishop of Stockport)

 

Those of us with memories of English history lessons from …. let’s be polite and say pre-1970 ….. were at home with some of the earlier ones but not too sure of the more recent and we learned a lot about what had happened in the 20th century. Our friend George Katsaris proved to be a mine of information and, I’m happy to say, now attends our quiz evenings!

Readings from Evelyn Waugh’s “Helena”, a beautifully written historical novel based on the life of Emperor Constantine’s mother, made us want to read the whole book; one has to hope it’s still available. Final sessions will focus on “St. Paul’s Creeds & Doctrine”, “Worship and Sacraments” and “The Anglican Communion”, with the last taking place on June 26th.

 

Jean Mertzanakis

.

 

 

Dr Rowan Williams blog

The Rt. Revd. Dr. Rowan Williams will be visiting Athens

The Rt. Revd. Dr. Rowan Williams, (former Archbishop of Canterbury) is visiting the St. Paul’s Anglican Church and Chaplaincy in Athens in May.

 

Programme:

  • Sunday 26th  May: Preside and preach at the 10.15 Liturgy followed by garden brunch. Preaching at Choral Evensong 18.30hrs.  All welcome.
  • Monday 27th May – official engagements including and audience with the Archbishop of Athens and All Greece.
  • Tuesday 28th May – day of visits to spiritual locations
  • Tuesday 28th May – open evening event at 20.00hrs at St. Philothea House, Adrianou, Plaka – a dialogue with Metropolitan Gabriel (all welcome to this- there will also be musical entertainment and light refreshments)
  • Wednesday 29th May 10.00hrs Liturgy at St. Paul’s (all welcome) then the rest of the day visiting arranged venues in Athens.
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

St Paul’s Spring Bazaar

Our Spring Bazaar will take place in the gardens of St Paul’s on Saturday 18th May between 10.00hrs and 14.00 hrs.

Come along and enjoy yourself. Catch up on your reading at our extensive book stall, or find the latest blockbuster DVD. Find a hidden treasure at the Bric a Brac, treat yourself to a new piece of jewellery or stock up on English Tea and souvenirs. For those who like a flutter there is a Tombola and a Raffle with some lovely prizes.

After all that shopping take the weight off your feet at the Food Corner where there will be some delicious goodies to eat, home made jams and preserves to buy and a glass of wine, Sangria, or even a G&T to wash it all down with!

Bring your parasols, tell your friends and come and enjoy a day out at a little oasis in the heart of Athens.

Nearest Metro Syntagma, and Filellinon is well served by Trolley and Blue buses.

See you there!

 

 

http://

div class=”ae-embed-org-plugin” data-type=”org” data-title=”false” data-id=”6003915″ data-height=”” data-width=”” data-transparency=”true” data-header=”0″ data-border=”0″ data-layout=”center” style=”width: 100%;”> </div> <script src=”https://allevents.in/scripts/public/ae-plugin-embed-lib.js”></script>

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flowers on the Altar

Holy Week and Easter Celebrations at St Paul’s

Jean Mertzanakis

 

Standing room only at St. Paul’s on Easter Sunday morning, with glorious sunshine streaming through our stained-glass windows and the altar awash with white lilies donated in memory of loved ones and beautifully arranged by Mary Pelidis and her sister Anna.  Rousing hymns, an anthem beautifully rendered by our choir and a sermon delivered by Canon Colin, ex-Archdeacon of Europe and a dear friend of the Chaplaincy, who was presented with an icon, thanking him for all his work on behalf of the Athens Chaplaincy. He spoke of the death and despair confronted by people every day in this frightening world and how, by reaching out and loving others as Jesus  loved us, we can transform this so-called ‘reality’ into another and truer reality based on love and freedom from fear.

Baptismal vows were renewed and the congregation were sprinkled with Holy Water. Three young members of our congregation made their first Communion and our Sunday School children decorated the Cross with Easter Eggs symbolising Christ’s rebirth.  Father Leonard conducted the singing of an Alleluia chorus, with parts sung by different sections of the congregation (great fun!) and the service closed with the traditional and rousing cry of “Christ is Risen … He is Risen Indeed!”

Father James then led prayers at the Easter Garden which had been prepared on Saturday morning – a beautiful addition to Holy Week at St. Paul’s and one that will continue. Easter breakfast was served in the sunshine. It was lovely to see friends old and new, especially Maro Angelopoulos and Margaret Liveris, both returning to good health, and a host of visitors from Greece and various parts of the world. A truly blessed and joyful Easter Sunday. A big Thank You to our clergy team and everyone who made it so memorable.

“ΧΡΙΣΤΌΣ ΑΝΈΣΤΗ … AΛΗΘΏΣ  ΑΝΕΣΤΗ! “CHRIST IS RISEN ……. HE IS RISEN INDEED!”

 

IMG_0772

 

Stations of the Cross

Holy Week at St. Paul’s

 

On Palm Sunday the church was full to overflowing with a congregation of more than 100, including many visitors. The Palm procession around the garden took place at the beginning of the service. On Holy Wednesday the morning service was followed by another procession around the garden, this time to follow Christ’s journey along the Via Dolorosa to the site of His crucifixion. The Stations of the Cross offer a reflective and moving reminder of His suffering at the hands of captors and the comfort offered to Him by his Mother, by Veronica and Simon of Cyrene and finally by some unknown ‘women of Jerusalem’. This devotion is one of the many that take place during Holy week in all Catholic and in many Anglican, Lutheran and Methodist churches throughout the world.

Bish Steps Gal
Nelly Paskevopoulou (far right) on the day of her confirmation.

Story of a Confirmation

Last February Bishop Robert visited Athens to Baptize and Confirm members of our St Paul’s Congregation.  Here is the experience of one of the Candidates – Nelly Paskevopoulou.

 

Story of a confirmation

 

Spirituality and religion has always been my great passion. I grew up in a very religious family and faithfully attended Sunday School at the Evangelical church until my teens. Part of my education at home, by my half Scottish Grandmother,  was learning Bible verses by heart and singing hymns before going to sleep at night. I loved Jesus with all my heart and prayed often to Him for all kinds of things. I knew for sure that He was listening. I admired saints, missionaries, nuns and priests.  As a teenager all this changed and I followed other, more “materialistic” paths. After many years of exploring almost every existing religious and spiritual path, from East to West and back again, my family tradition proved to be stronger and I “found my way back home”: to Saint Paul’s.

It was the last Sunday of October 2017 when I decided finally to attend the service at the Anglican Church. I never expected to be so moved. I spent an hour crying from pure relief. Everything was familiar, but also completely new. Everything felt just right. Later on I asked Father Leonard for spiritual guidance and we had an illuminating discussion, which helped to clear my mind on religious matters. Since then I have done a lot of reading about Anglicanism and continue to feel that this is the right spiritual path for me.

READ MORE

Bible Studies picture

Services at St Paul’s for Lent and Easter 2019

PRINCIPAL HOLY DAYS

Ash Wednesday:                     March 6th                   10.00hrs              Liturgy with Ashes

Palm Sunday:                          April 14th                    10.15hrs               Liturgy with outside Procession and Blessing of Palms

Great (Maundy) Thursday:  April 18th                   20.00 hrs           Liturgy and Procession to the Altar of Repose *

Great (Good) Friday:             April 19th                    13.30 hrs             Liturgy of the Day with Veneration of the Cross *

Great (Holy Saturday):         April 20th                   20.00 hrs            Easter Ceremonies with Lighting of the New Fire, Vigil and                                                                                                                                                                                                  First  Mass of Easter *

Easter Sunday:                       April 21st                       10.15 hrs               Holy Liturgy * followed by Easter Breakfast in the church                                                                                                                                                                                                    garden

                                                                                                  18.00 hrs             Swedish Mass

                                                                                                 20.00 hrs             Choral Evensong

*Archdeacon Colin Williams will be the preacher

Lent blog pic

Lent, Holy Week and Easter 2019

ANGLICAN STORY

Fr James’ sessions will continue through

Lent, with a focus on some of the ‘marks’ of

the Christian life.

These three sessions would make a good

‘standalone’ series even if you are unable to

commit to all the other sessions.

Forgiveness

Weds 13th March, 12.30hrs, Swedish centre

Sacrifice & generosity

Weds 27th March, 10.45hrs, St Paul’s

Community & mission

Weds 10th April, 12.30pm, Swedish Centre

Community Connect

Join with friends old and new for coffee and cake

Central Athens – Weds 13th March, 10.30 –

12.30, Swedish Centre

Kifissia – Weds 20th March, 10.00 – 12.00,

Loida Home for the ElderlyREAD MORE

Bible Studies picture

A short order of service for Praying daily at home in the morning and evening

+Both morning and evening begin with:

Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy  Spirit. Amen.

 

+Morning only:

Come, let us sing to the Lord:

Let us shout for joy to the rock of our salvation.

Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving:

And raise a loud shout to him with psalms.

For  the Lord God is a great God:

And a great King above all gods.

In his hands are the depths of the earth;

And the heights of the hills are his also.

The sea is his for he made it;

And his hands have moulded the dry land.

Come, let us bow down and bend the knee;

And kneel before the Lord our Maker.

For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture

And  the sheep of his hand.

READ MORE

Bible Study Picture

An Introduction to the liturgy and practices of Lent, Holy Week, and Easter

 

School of Prayer and Study

(ForThe Anglican Church in Greece and the Anglican Diocese of Cameroon

An Introduction to the liturgy and practices of Lent, Holy Week, and Easter

Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan

Senior Chaplain of the Anglican Church in Greece; Apokrisiarios of the Archbishop of Canterbury to the Archbishop of Athens and All Greece; Canon Theologian of the Diocese of Cameroon.

This short booklet is intended to help the reader to have a greater understanding of the richness of this season; its liturgies and practices; to give a brief overview, not a detailed and exhaustive history. The hope is that it will enhance your worship, and maybe explain a little more about why we do certain things. It certainly is intended to encourage the reader to engage with and experience as much of this season as possible. The whole season revolves around the mystery of Christ’s passion and resurrection, but there are liturgical ways in which we express this, and the booklet seeks to describe some of this.

 

Liturgical Developments

It is only in the last 50 or so years that the Church of England has been developing its liturgies for parish use. Up until Common Worship in the year 2000 the Book of Common Prayer determined official liturgical use. Those who were more exotic in their taste turned to Roman manuals for other material. Rich in its language and much loved in English culture, nonetheless BCP was restricted – restricted by the very thing that makes it beautiful, namely its old English, but also by the efforts of the Reformation itself to eradicate certain practices that were unacceptable at the time.

 

The Army chaplains of the First World War were the first to realize how inflexible the Prayer Book was as they ministered to dying men in the trenches of Northern Europe. More contemporary language was needed; pastoral flexibility in extremis was desirable. 1928 saw the first real attempt to revise the book that had determined how the Church of England worshipped. This failed to get approval in Parliament. The 1950’s saw the Parish Communion movement emerge, and there was need for different ways to express both the shape and structure of our worship, and the finer details of liturgical seasons.

 

With Vatican II coming along there was also greater co-operation between the Roman Catholic and Anglican (along with Methodists and URC) liturgical scholars, and the Church of England was becoming a more ‘liturgical beast’ wishing to rediscover things in the different seasons of the church’s year, especially the seasons that revolve most tightly around our Lord’s life, namely the Incarnation and the Resurrection (known better to us as Christmas and Easter). We were encouraged to think of seasons, or cycles, and not individual feasts. So there emerged the ‘incarnation cycle’ comprising Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany (with all its wonderful themes of  manifestation of God’s glory in Jesus, unity, mission.) The other great cycle is that of the resurrection, including Lent, Holy Week, Easter, and the Great Fifty Days that embrace Ascension and Pentecost.

 

For the development of the way we celebrated the Eucharist along came Series 1, 2 and 3; Then the ASB (1980), and ultimately Common Worship (2000). Accompanying developments in shape and text for the eucharist and other important services in the life of the church ‘resource books’ were published, principally The Promise of his Glory, Lent Holy Week and Easter, Celebrating Festivals, and Patterns for Worship. The publication Times and Seasons has brought together much of the material in these other books

 READ MORE

diocese_in_europe_350X230

Bishop Robert’s Lent Appeal 2019 goes to Athens Based Organisation

The Bishop of Gibralter in Europe, Bishop Robert, has agreed that this year his Lent Appeal will go to an Athens Based Charity, Hestia Hellas, who specialise in the care of those suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and other psycho-social illnesses.

The full text of his letter can be read here

Fr Leonard Doolan, our senior chaplain, has produced a video in conjunction with Hestia Hellas giving some idea of the work that Hestia undertakes. This can be viewed here

As Fr Leonard explains, there is very little money for Mental Health illnesses in Greece and organisations such as Hestia Hellas are increasingly finding themselves called upon to help those suffering from PTSD amongst them many children.

READ MORE

dav

Deacon Christine Saccali’s speech to the gathering at Apostoli

APOSTOLI   2/02/19

Thank you.

Ambassador, Bishop, Metropolitan Gavriel, long standing friends and colleagues here in Athens.

As I look around the room it is indeed a great blessing to see you all here gathered for this event to celebrate all the worthy projects, partnerships and relationships that have been forged in Athens throughout the past few years since August 2015 when we here in Greece found ourselves suddenly thrown into the centre of a huge wave of migrating and displaced people washing up on our island shores before arriving in the port of Pireaus and moving on into this city’s squares.

There have been many comings and goings since then – not as many legally entitled beneficiaries moving on to their destinations as quickly as we would like, poor conditions for those who stay and the trickle who leave always being replaced by others on the move.

READ MORE

L – R: Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan, Metropolitan Gabriel, HE The British Ambassador, Bishop Robert, Revd. Duncan Dormer, Deacon Chris Saccali

A celebration at Apostoli

On Saturday 2nd February around 25 people met at Apostoli, the Social Mission Arm of the Orthodox Church.

Members of USPG, The Anglican Church and the Orthodox Church as well as various charities who have been helping with the outreach of its mission, met together to celebrate the bonds of solidarity and friendship that had been forged since 2015 when Greece found itself at the centre of the refugee crisis.

Bishop Robert spoke of how, during his tenure, Europe had suffered from two crises – the Financial and the Refugee, and Greece, one of the poorest members of the European Union, had found itself at the forefront of both; a situation manifestly unfair to the Greek People. But the Anglican Church in Athens and the Orthodox Church stood together and forged a partnership, together with USPG,  to help alleviate the suffering of those caught up in the crisis;  USPG have been vital in this work helping to channel over €400,000 through St Paul’s to people in Greece suffering from these crises.

“Church in the Street” distributes food twice a day to over 900 homeless and impoverished Greek families as well as refugees.  Two hostels have been set up for Women and unaccompanied minors who are most at risk in the camps, and organisations such as Medin, Lighthouse and Hestia have been given funds to help them to expand and continue their important work.

READ MORE

Evensong

23rd Choral Evensong at St Paul’s Anglican Church

XXIII (23rd) Choral Evensong at St. Paul’s Anglican Church on Sunday, February 17th, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Filellinon 27, 10557 Syntagma.

Collegium & Cappella Sancti Pauli conducted by Iason Marmaras

Minister: The Reverend Canon Leonard Doolan

free admission, discretionary donation

The Renaissance Choral Evensong services at St Paul’s are organised by the Schola Cantorum Sancti Pauli, the Athens Centre for Early Music, and St Paul’s Anglican Church.

The choir Cappella Sancti Pauli, under the direction of Iason Marmaras, sing a series of Choral Evensong services that aim to revive the musical and liturgical practice at Cathedrals and Chapels during the Renaissance, but also the experience that musicians had of this music at those times, looking at the music as a functional part of the liturgy, rather than as a building-block for concerts.

 

More information at:    www.scholacantorum.gr

https://www.facebook.com/scholacantorum.gr/

 

St-Paul's-2015 grey sky 638x960

Hon. Treasurer Mr Maurice Ashford – RIP

It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death on Wednesday 16th January, of our Honorary Treasurer Mr Maurice Ashford.

His funeral took place at St Paul’s on Wednesday 23rd January and our Senior Chaplain Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan officiated. Read his tribute below.

READ MORE

Anglican story Feature

Anglican Story A series of sessions to explore who we are what we believe and how that affects what we do, as Christians in the Anglican tradition.

January – June 2019

Introduction

Our Christian faith doesn’t stand still.

Life’s journey – the places and people, joys and sorrows we have known; they all have an influence on the shape of our faith today.

And there is always more to ask, learn and discover.

Anglican Story is a series of sessions designed to help us explore who we are, what we believe and how that affects what we do, as Christians in the Anglican tradition.

Each session will begin with a Bible reading and introductory talk on a particular theme from Fr James, followed by a time of discussion and exploration of the issues it raises for each of us.

No question will be out of bounds and we will hopefully discover some answers from, and with, each other.

We will end each session with a period of quiet reflection to consider all we have shared.

No matter for how long or short a time you have been aware of your faith, why not take this opportunity for refreshment and enrichment in the company of fellow pilgrims on the way?

Schedule

Sessions will last approx. 1.5 hours and will be held twice monthly on Wednesdays, once a month at the Swedish Centre (following on from Community Connect, at approx. 12.30pm) and the alternate week in St Paul’s Church, immediately after the midweek service (approx.10.45am).

The dates, venues and topics for each session are outlined below. [Key: SwC = Swedish Centre; StP = St Paul’s Church]

Although the sessions will be most valuable for those who are able to attend the whole course, the individual sessions will also be ‘standalone’ and it will be possible to dip in and out if you’re unable to make every one. 

READ MORE

Community Connect meets every month in Athens and Kifissia

Athens and Kifissia Community Connect cut their Vassilopitta

On the 2nd Wednesday of January 2019, Community Connect Athens met for the first time in 2019 to wish everyone a Happy New Year and to cut the Vassilopitta.

There were warm sausage rolls and other cakes to munch on with our coffee prior to the cutting of the Vassilopitta.  Fr James said a short prayer and blessed the cake and the children blew out the candle!

For those of you who live outside Greece, the Vassilopitta is a large cake in which the bakers have placed a “gold” coin.  When the cake is cut, whoever gets the coin in their slice of cake is purported to have Good Luck all year round!

READ MORE

22nd Evensong BLog

XXII (22nd) Choral Evensong

XΧΙΙ (22nd) Choral Evensong at St. Paul’s Anglican Church (Philellinon 27, 10557 Syntagma) on Sunday, January 20, 2019,  6:30-7:30 p.m.

Collegium & Cappella Sancti Pauli conducted by Iason Marmaras

Minister: The Reverend Canon Leonard Doolan

free admission, discretionary donation

 

The Renaissance Choral Evensong services at St Paul’s are organised by the Schola Cantorum Sancti Pauli, the Athens Centre for Early Music, and St Paul’s Anglican Church.

The choir Cappella Sancti Pauli, under the direction of Iason Marmaras, sing a series of Choral Evensong services that aim to revive the musical and liturgical practice at Cathedrals and Chapels during the Renaissance, but also the experience that musicians had of this music at those times, looking at the music as a functional part of the liturgy, rather than as a building-block for concerts.

 

More information at:  www.scholacantorum.gr

https://www.facebook.com/scholacantorum.gr/

St Paul's Logo f.i.

Supporting Ministry and Mission at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Athens

Supporting Ministry and Mission at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Athens

At St. Paul’s there is a proud record of supporting programmes that assist Athens’ citizens in times of need, as well as working with refugees and migrants. Most of the money we use to support the everyday life of the church is raised locally in Athens.

 

We need YOUR HELP to be able to continue our work in maintaining a presence in Athens and supporting ALL members of the Athens community, whether they are regular church-goers or not.

READ MORE

contact-us-far-left

January/February Liturgy at St Paul’s

January/February Liturgy at St. Paul’s Athens                                                               

Jan 6th      10.15hrs  Epiphany Sunday

                  18.00hrs  Swedish Mass

Jan 13th    10.15hrs   Baptism of Christ (Theophania)

Jan 20th   10.15hrs  3rd Sunday of Epiphany

                   18.30hrs   Choral Evensong

Jan  27th   10.00hrs   Liturgy for the Conversion of St. Paul

                                      (Patronal Festival)

Feb 3rd       10.15hrs  Liturgy for Presentation of Christ at the Temple

                   (Baptism and Confirmation with +Lord Bishop of Europe)

Feb 10th     10.15hrs  4th Sunday before Lent

                    18.00hrs  Swedish Mass

Feb 17th      10.15hrs  3rd before Lent

                     18.30hrs  Choral Evensong

Feb 24th    10.15am 2nd before Lent

Every Wednesday in January – Liturgy at 10.00am

Every Sunday at 10.15am (except 13th) – Sunday School

Evensong 1

21st Choral Evensong at St Paul’s Anglican Church

XXIst Choral Evensong at St. Paul’s Anglican Church on Sunday, December 23rd, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Filellinon 27, 10557 Syntagma.

Collegium & Cappella Sancti Pauli conducted by Iason Marmaras

Minister: The Reverend Canon Leonard Doolan

free admission, discretionary donation

The Renaissance Choral Evensong services at St Paul’s are organised by the Schola Cantorum Sancti Pauli, the Athens Centre for Early Music, and St Paul’s Anglican Church.

The choir Cappella Sancti Pauli, under the direction of Iason Marmaras, sing a series of Choral Evensong services that aim to revive the musical and liturgical practice at Cathedrals and Chapels during the Renaissance, but also the experience that musicians had of this music at those times, looking at the music as a functional part of the liturgy, rather than as a building-block for concerts.

 

More information at:    www.scholacantorum.gr

ChristmasArrivals 2018

Singalong Christmas at St Paul’s

The annual Christmas Singalong will take place at St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens on Sunday 16th December at 20.00 hrs.

 

Come along and bring family and friends to what is always a very jolly occasion.  Singalong to old favourites – Carols and Christmas songs – sip a warming glass of mulled wine and munch on a slice of Stollen.  There will be soft drinks available for children.

Come early to grab a seat and make sure your voices are in tip top condition – we aim to raise our voices to the rafters!

Entrance fee 5€ for adults.

Christmas Services at St Paul's Anglican Church Athens

Christmas Services at St Paul’s

Please check out all the services and events at St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens this holy and festive season.

There will be something for everyone to participate in from Singalong Christmas Carols and Songs, to Singalong Messiah; from a service of Lessons and Carols to Midnight mass and the Family Christmas Day service.

We have much to celebrate and be thankful for so do come along and join us at one of our services.

Kiffisiacarols blog

Carol Service in Kifissia

Come to a service of Lessons and Carols at the Loida Scriptural home for the Elderly, Levidou 77 & Ionas 46, 145 63 Kifissia,  on Sunday 16th November 2018 at 18.00 hrs.

The National Odeio Choir will be accompanying the singing and seasonal refreshments will be served afterwards.

Admission Free.

Print

St Paul’s offers its thanks

As always we are very grateful to all those Companies who have supported our Christmas Bazaar this  year either with a donation, goods or services or prizes.  As always your generosity added greatly to the success of the bazaar and we would ask all visitors to our website to visit our Donors Page and use or visit these companies wherever possible.

 

The list of prizewinners has now been completed and is available to view  here

Messiah_post_1100

Singalong Handel’s Messiah

Come and celebrate the joy of the Christmas season by joining the 8th ‘Singalong Messiah’ at St Paul’s Anglican Church.  This event, which has become a firm favourite in the Athens Christmas calendar, will be held on Sunday December 23rd, at 8.30 at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 27, Filellinon St.  Come and sing in the chorus, or just to listen to this wonderful Christmas work.
Tickets: 5 euros/3 euros for students, with proceeds going to the Friends of St Paul’s for upkeep of our historic building.
Musical scores available at the door.  For more information contact Jane Mandalios on 210 8959123 or janemandalios@gmail.com.
Evensong 1

XX Choral Evensong at St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens

XΧ Choral Evensong  with Collegium & Cappella Sancti Pauli conducted by Iason Marmaras will take place on Sunday 25th November at 18.30 hrs.

The Renaissance Choral Evensong services at St Paul’s are organised by the Schola Cantorum Sancti Pauli, the Athens Centre for Early Music, and St Paul’s Anglican Church.

The choir Cappella Sancti Pauli, under the direction of Iason Marmaras, sing a series of Choral Evensong services that aim to revive the musical and liturgical practice at Cathedrals and Chapels during the Renaissance, but also the experience that musicians had of this music at those times, looking at the music as a functional part of the liturgy, rather than as a building-block for concerts.

Minister: The Reverend Canon Leonard Doolan

free admission, discretionary donation

 

More information at:  schola.gr/20,     www.scholacantorum.gr

Featured Image

St Paul’s marks Remembrance Sunday 100 years after the end of the First World War

Remembrance Sunday in Athens was marked by a service in St Paul’s, with HE The British Ambassador, Kate Smith, and many other Ambassadors and representatives of the Commonwealth present. H.E. read the gospel whilst her Defence Attache, Tim Ferns, read a lesson and the “ode of remembrance”.  A wreath of poppies was placed on the alter by Church Warden Nigel Daniels and at 11.00 hrs the entire congregation processed outside to witness Tim ringing the bell just as the bells were rung across the UK at the appointed hour.

 

Afterwards many people travelled down to the beautiful CWGC cemetery at Alimos,  where an international gathering attended by Ambassadors and representatives of many nations, faith leaders, schools and other organisations, sang hymns, and listened to readings.  It was also wonderful to have the choir of Byron College contributing to the ceremony at Alimos, singing two pieces specially composed for the occasion by their music teacher, Dimitri Orlov: a captivating and moving performance.

 

READ MORE

Harvest Blog Media

A New Harvest Perspective

Fr James

Being a September birthday, and hailing from a particularly damp corner of that northern European outpost called England, I have always had a particular affinity for Autumn; the season Keats described as one of ‘mists and mellow fruitfulness’. You can almost smell the leaf mould in that verse!

For me, in that context, Harvest has always been an autumnal festival and closely linked to falling leaves and burnished colours.

How would it be then, I wondered, to celebrate Harvest in a country where mist is apparently not a common weather event and where, even in mid-October, the sun and the mercury are still high (relatively speaking!)

READ MORE

Autumn Bazaar 2. blog

A poem for the Harvest Festival – by Luke Bryant

Our father of two and erstwhile stand-up comedian Luke Bryant wrote this special poem which he recited during our lunch at the Kokotos Winery on Sunday 21st October. We are very grateful for his contribution which was much appreciated especially since he was suffering from a painful back that day.  We look forward to reading many more contributions from Luke and to his entertaining us again with his special brand of humour:

 

AN ANGLICAN IN ATHENS

We’ll start our rhyme at Christmas, a magical time of year,

The whole church gets together, to spread the joyful cheer.

The climate in Athens is not so British, not quite so icy cold.

  The Christmas tree goes up and the choir begins to sing.

Christmas wishes and thoughts of family, thoughts of memories of old.

And then the Christmas market, so many treats bought and sold.

 

And then we get through New Year’s, our year in the church begins afresh,

Time to detox ourselves from Christmas and kick-start our minds all fresh.

Time to start thinking about our Easter and preparing ourselves for Lent.

Time to count to forty and restart, our Anglican Christian faith.

Each year brings brand new challenges, created from our past.

Lent is time to focus and think about our past.

READ MORE

Print

ST Paul’s Annual Christmas Bazaar 25th November 2018

Our 65th Christmas Bazaar will take place at Aegli Zappiou on Sunday 25th November 2018 between 11.00 and 15.30 hrs.

There will be something for everyone from Christmas Decorations to Cakes, Toys to Tea, Refreshments to Fancy Goods.  Take the weight off your feet in our ‘Cafe’ and enjoy some delicious home-made food or some exotic African delicacies. Have an Irish Coffee or a drink from the Bar.

For Children, Fr Christmas will be present, and there will be a Children’s corner where they can colour their own Christmas Cards, pick a ‘Lucky Dip’, or  choose from the Pick ‘n ‘mix.

For those of you who like a bit of excitement, there’s our Raffle with some fantastic prizes or our Tombola with fun, funky and fabulous items to be won.

If you would like to help us out by advertising our Bazaar where you live, please download and print a poster in English here or in Greek here.

Don’t forget the Church will be open for collection of goods from Monday 19th November to Saturday 24th November between 10.00 – 12.00 hrs (10.30 on Wednesday 21st November).

If you would like to help on the day or have a query regarding the bazaar please contact the Bazaar Coordinator here.

Mark the date in your diaries, bring along the whole family, tell your friends and neighbours and get down to the Aegli on Sunday 25th November.

We’ll be waiting for you!

 

Anglican Church Athens Harvest Festival

St PAUL’s Harvest Festival Celebration

Sunday 21st  October at the Ktima Kokotou Winery.
Please note there will be NO service at St Paul’s on that day.

(Everyone – and not just members of the Chaplaincy – most welcome and gifts of dried or tinned goods for the Sisters of Mercy will be gratefully received)

Harvest Eucharist 11:00
Followed by Wine Tasting at approx 12:30
Harvest Lunch from 1:30,

Tickets: 15 euros per person (10 euros children 3—10 years, toddlers free).  (Family Ticket – 2 Adults + 2 Children 3 – 10 years –  40 Euros.)  All proceeds to the Greater Athens Anglican Chaplaincy. Athens area tickets available from Lynn Stavrou.

In memory of Janet Halvantzi, her family have paid for a bus (which will be free of charge) to pick people up OPPOSITE St. Paul’s, Filellinon Street, departing PROMPTLY at 09.45hrs on the Sunday morning. Please ensure you are there in good time to avoid missing the coach. We will be unable to wait due to time constraints. We will depart from Ktima Kokotou Winery at 3.45 p.m. to return to St. Paul’s.

If you /your family / friends would like to travel by bus, please could you add your name to the sign-up sheet at the back of Church. RESERVED SEATING WILL CLOSE ON SUNDAY, 14TH OCTOBER.

 

Les Voix de Nice Blog
Les Voix de Nice

French Choir – “Les Voix de Nice”

“Les Voix de Nice” – Sunday the 28th October 2018 at 21.00

at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 27 Filellinon street, Syntagma, Athens

The 75-member choir from France will perform songs from France and Nice as well as popular and classical songs.  A concert not to be missed!

Organized by: It’s Greece Single Member P.C.

FREE ENTRANCE

Information: Samer Boustanzi, e-mail:samer@itsgreece.gr

http://www.voixdenice.org/

Blog AD & Ortho

New Encouragements in Greece

Archdeacon Colin Williams was in Greece for the weekend of 11th-14th October for the Licensings of two new priests. On Friday 12th he was in Crete for the Licensing of the Revd. Canon Bruce Bryant-Scott as the Assistant Chaplain with responsibility for Crete (St. Thomas’s, Kefalas). On Sunday 14th The Revd. James Harris was Licensed as Asst. Chaplain at St. Paul’s Athens.

Fr. James will work in Athens and Greece for one year. In Crete, Fr. Leonard the Senior Chaplain preached  and Archdeacon Colin preached in Athens (see website for the text).

READ MORE

Mouse On Mars

“Mouse on Mars” at St Paul’s on Monday 22nd October 2018

Mouse on Mars are an electronic music duo formed in Germany in 1993, consisting of Jan St. Werner from Köln, and Andi Toma from Düsseldorf. Their music is a blend of electronic genres including but not limited to IDMdubkrautrockbreakbeat, and ambient, featuring heavy use of organic analog synth and cross-frequency modulation. Their music also features live instrumentation including stringshornsdrumsbass and guitar.

Mouse on Mars is recognised as one of Germany’s most defining and versatile electronic music projects.

On Monday the 22nd October 2018, the duo will present an audio-visual show where part of their recordings will be presented

Organized by Arte Atene and Groove Productions

READ MORE

EVENSONG 19

XIX Choral Evensong at St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens

The 19th Choral Evensong with Scola Cantorum will take place on Sunday 28th October 2018 at 6.30pm.

Collegium & Cappella Sancti Pauli conducted by Iason Marmaras

Minister: The Reverend Canon Leonard Doolan

free admission, discretionary donation

 

The Renaissance Choral Evensong services at St Paul’s are organised by the Schola Cantorum Sancti Pauli, the Athens Centre for Early Music, and St Paul’s Anglican Church.

The choir Cappella Sancti Pauli, under the direction of Iason Marmaras, sing a series of Choral Evensong services that aim to revive the musical and liturgical practice at Cathedrals and Chapels during the Renaissance, but also the experience that musicians had of this music at those times, looking at the music as a functional part of the liturgy, rather than as a building-block for concerts.

 

More information at:  schola.gr/19,     www.scholacantorum.gr

St Lamberti

Kantorei St Lamberti, Hildesheim, Germany

An ensemble from Germany with a choir of 30 persons and an orchestra of 10
One hour programme entitled “Dona Nobis Pacem” (Peace on earth)
Programme:
Marc-Antoine Charpentier, Messe di Minuit, H.9
J. S. Bach, Double violin concerto, BWV 1043
W.A.Mozart, Laudate Dominum for Choir and Orchestra, K.339
Time: 19.00 hrs
Admission:  Free but donation required

 

adopt-far-left

Report of the Anglican Church in Athens to the Archdeaconry Synod

Our Archdeacon, Colin Williams, has asked all members of the Archdeaconry Synod, to write a report on the activities of the Chaplaincy over the past year.

Here is our report – and what a busy year it has been! We hope you enjoy reading it and that it will encourage you to come and join us for a service, or one of our bazaars or a concert.

 

Report from the Anglican Church in Greece

 

(St. Andrew’s Corfu and St. Thomas’s Crete will present their own reports as they have Synod Members)

Note:  The  legalization of the Church in Greece was completed towards the time of Synod 2017. The new procedures required of us have been put to the test with the appointment of a new Assistant Chaplain to Crete, further complicated by the fact that he is from outside the EU. The Board of the Anglican Church in Greece is due to meet later in the Autumn for its required annual meeting.

The order in which the following are placed has no bearing on their relative importance!

St. Paul’s Athens

  1. We continue to have a Sunday Liturgy at 10.15am every Sunday. As there is only one priest available, occasionally this service has to be a Liturgy of the Word, conducted either by Deacon Christine Saccali, or Reader Sherry Angelis. Our attendances at the 10.15am Liturgy are gradually increasing, which is very pleasing. The congregation is a mix of British women married to Greeks, individuals or families in Athens for short periods of work or teaching/study time, Africans (currently from South Africa, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Kenya) and their families, occasional refugees (from Iran, Syria, China, and political refugees from Turkey), some Greeks who are generally disaffected with the Greek Orthodox Church, and a constant stream of tourists, pilgrims and visitors. Apart from holiday times the congregation numbers are often in the 90’s.

 READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Sermon preached after the devastating fires of East Attica

Trinity 9 (29th July 2018)  2 Kings 4, 42-44; Ephesians 3, 14-21; John 6, 1-21   (Preached in St. Paul’s Athens)

 

Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan, Senior Chaplain, Greece.

 

When a priest asks an elderly man why he comes into church for a time each day, the elderly man  says, ‘Sometimes I sit and pray. Sometimes I just sit.  ’Sometimes I sit and pray. Sometimes I just sit.’

The three readings set for our liturgy today have a common theme, namely the abundance of God. God is the great and generous provider, offering to humanity more than we could ever ask or deserve.

A  hymn so wonderfully says, Finest bread I will provide, till their hearts are satisfied.

In the first reading Elisha is faced with a dilemma. How can he feed a hundred people with insufficient grain to make the bread? God says,’ Let them eat. They shall eat and have some left.’

God is indeed a God of bounty and of endless generosity.

READ MORE

Queens Photo Gallery

QUEENS’ COLLEGE CAMBRIDGE CHOIR SING AT ST PAUL’S

Janet and Harry Anathassopoulou

 

On Friday July 20th the choir of Queens’ College Cambridge University visited Athens and gave a concert at St. Paul’s Anglican Church. For all us who were lucky enough to be there it was a beautiful and uplifting evening. The choir of male and female voices was conducted by Ralph Allwood MBE. His introduction to each piece was always amusing and informative and heightened our anticipation.

 

The programme included music from the 16th to the 20th Century. The composers ranged from Italian, Spanish, French, German, English and Australian to Irish. The concert began with four 16th Century Latin Chants. The type of music that can transport one to another plane. Perfect pitch and perfect harmony. As the choirmaster had said at the start, although such music is often sad, it is this very sadness that lifts our soul! One well known piece, that most of us knew, was “Song for Athene” by John Tavener. Even if not known by name, it was the song sung at Diana Princess of Wales’ funeral. Sad and beautiful it drew a “bravo” from the audience.

READ MORE

diocese_in_europe_350X230

“Ad Clerum” – Bishop Robert writes to the Congregations of the Diocese in Europe

Trinity Season 2018

AD CLERUM

 

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As a choirboy in the 1960s, I used to amuse myself during what felt like interminable sermons by flicking through the pages of the Book of Common Prayer. I quickly formed the view that, after the exciting events of Christmas, Epiphany, Easter and Whitsun the author’s imagination had run out when it came to the Trinity season. So we had a succession of Sundays ‘after Trinity’ from the first, the second, the third…right up to the twenty-fifth until things restart in Advent. All very dull and boring.

These days, I see it differently. The celebration of Trinity Sunday draws together the divine activity in creation and redemption made known through the threefold action of God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Human beings are incorporated into this life through faith and baptism in the name of the Trinity. Our lives are to be patterned individually and corporately upon a God who makes himself known as a diverse unity. And so all human life is lived as a series of events ‘after Trinity’ until the last great day when God in his Advent makes all things new.

READ MORE

Blog 2

The Choir of Queens’ College Cambridge University 20th July 2018

The Choir of the Chapel of Queens’ College Cambridge will be performing at St Paul’s on Friday 20th July 2018 at 20.30 hrs.  Admission free.

Queens’ College Choir

Queens’ College Choir is one of the leading mixed-voice choirs in Cambridge. While twentieth-century music forms the core of the choir’s repertoire, the choir increasingly performs Baroque and contemporary music, reflecting the specialisms of the Director of Music. The choir is regularly joined by a group of student instrumentalists, the Queens’ Chapel Players, enabling the liturgical performance of concerted music. The Choir’s CD recordings have attracted widespread critical acclaim. Their most recent disc, ‘For the Wings of a Dove: Music of Supplication and Hope’, is based on settings of the psalms and includes Mendelssohn’s famous setting of Psalm 51, ‘Hear my prayer’. In recent years the Choir has performed in Hong Kong, Switzerland, France, Germany, Southern Italy, Belgium, Hungary and the USA.

READ MORE

SB Header

St Paul’s Spring Bazaar

Saturday 26th May dawned bright and fair. Despite it being a holiday weekend we were hoping for a good attendance at the Bazaar.

The stallholders arrived early to set out their goods, and the bunting and Union Jacks were hung up around the perimeter of the Church to add a colourful flavour to the proceedings and to advertise this particularly “British” occasion.

By 11.00 people were queuing up at the gate to get in.  Fr Leonard rang the bell and the gate was opened!  There was an immediate rush to the Jewellery Stall where the three Ladies had their hands full keeping up with the sales.  The Book Stall also did brisk business and soon all the other stalls were busy selling.

READ MORE

diocese_in_europe_350X230

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force on 25th May 2018.  Please read below our Privacy Policy.

 

The Chaplaincy Council (CC) of St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens

  1. Your personal data – what is it?

Personal data relates to a living individual who can be identified from that data.  Identification can be by the information alone or in conjunction with any other information in the data controller’s possession or likely to come into such possession. The processing of personal data is governed by the General Data Protection Regulation (the “GDPR”).

  1. Who are we?

The CC ST Paul’s  is the data controller (contact details below).  This means it decides how your personal data is processed and for what purposes.

  1. How do we process your personal data?

The CC of St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens, complies with its obligations under the “GDPR” by keeping personal data up to date; by storing and destroying it securely; by not collecting or retaining excessive amounts of data; by protecting personal data from loss, misuse, unauthorised access and disclosure and by ensuring that appropriate technical measures are in place to protect personal data.

READ MORE

Chris 1100 x 600

Historic visit of HRH Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall to Athens

HRH Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall flew into Athens on Wednesday 9th May at the invitation of the President of Greece, Prokopis Pavlopoulos, for an historic three-day visit to Athens and Crete – the first State visit by a member of the Royal Family since the Second World War.

After arriving on Wednesday afternoon, Charles and Camilla headed to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Syntagma Square  where the Prince laid a wreath to remember the unknown and missing casualties of war.

Later on they met with President Prokopis Pavlopoulos at the Presidential Mansion and then with Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras. They also met with Mr Kostis Dimtisas, the General Manager of Apostoli, the Charitable arm of the Orthodox Church, and friend of the Anglican Church in Athens.  On Wednesday evening the President hosted a glamorous banquet in their honour.

READ MORE

Poster 1100

St Paul’s Spring Bazaar May 26th 2018

Our annual Spring Bazaar will be held in the grounds of St Paul’s on Saturday 26th May between 1100 -1500 hrs

Stock up on your reading books for your beach holiday, or find the dvd of the movie you keep missing.  Peruse our bric a brac stall for bargains and take a look at the beautiful jewellery on sale. Good quality nearly new clothes, Jams & preserves and British Tea and Commemorative items will be available.

when you have finished shopping, take the weight off your feet with our delicious refreshments and have a beer or a soft drink or even a glass of Sangria!

Do come along and support St Paul’s.  All proceeds go towards supporting the Chaplaincy and its outreach.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Finnish Guys

Finnish Duo enhance our Sunday Worship

On the morning before the last concert of our very successful 15th Spring Organ Series, we were delighted to welcome Hannu Niemelä, baritone, accompanied by Pauli Pietiläinen on the Organ, who sung the  beautiful ‘Finnish prayer’ by Taneli Kuusisto, at the end of our morning worship.   Roughly translated, the Finnish Prayer means:  “Bless and preserve us by your Hand. Lead us on the right way, give us strength. You have  all the Power and Spirit.”

The congregation sat spellbound as Hannu’s beautiful voice filled the church to the rafters and at the end they received a well-deserved round of applause.

We are very grateful to the Finnish Institute for their support for our final concert of the Series, and we hope that all visitors to our Website will keep a look out next year for details of our 16th Spring Organ Series.

For more information regarding Pauli Pietiläinen and Hannu Niemelä, please click Here.

SB Header

Spring Bazaar Saturday 26th May 2018 11.00hrs – 15.00hrs

Our Annual Spring Bazaar will be held in the garden of St Paul’s Church on Saturday 26th May 2018, between 11.00 hrs and 15.00 hrs.

Come and browse our varied stalls and then sit in the pleasant surroundings and partake of some home-made refreshments whilst chatting to friends.

This is always a very happy occasion for all the family and we look forward to welcoming you.

SOS Correct

The 15th Spring Organ Series Sunday 6th May 2018

Bach goes to town

The final concert of the 15th Spring Organ Series 2018 will take place on  Sunday 6th May 2018 at 2030 hrs. Presenting the Finnish organist Pauli Pietiläinen, who along with the singers Lida Dimitriadi and Hannu Niemelä will give the audience a contemporary version of appeal and faith through works that are heard for the first time in Greece.

Tickets: 12 euros
Information/ Tickets: 39 Panepistimou Avenue
Stoa Pesmatzoglou, Athens, Public stores

READ MORE

Edinburgh Uni

Edinburgh University Renaissance Singers

On Sunday 15th April 2018  St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens is proud to present,

The Edinburgh University Renaissance singers :

Come Woeful Orpheus

An evening of  Renaissance Choral Music from around Europe, Directed by Noel O’Regan.

Music by Byrd, Lassus, Monteverdi and Shutz.

Time: 8.30pm

Entrance Free

Retiring collection for the Church

Scola Cantorum 13

The 13th Renaissance Choral Evensong at St Paul’s

The 13th Choral Evensong will take place on Sunday 1st April 2018

Programme:

Preces • William Byrd (1538–1623)

Respons • Thomas Tallis (c. 1505–1585)

Magnificat & Nunc dimittis • Byrd; John Merbecke (c. 1510 – c. 1585)

Psalm :: 114 • Byrd; Edward Blanks (fl. ca. 1600)

Anthem :: Christ rising again • Thomas Tomkins (1572–1656)

Sung by the Collegium & Cappella Sancti Pauli under the direction of Iason Marmaras,

leading the Worship Revd. Canon Leonard Doolan

READ MORE

Schola Cantorum jpeg

Schola Sanctorum Sancti Pauli

The Schola Cantorum Sancti Pauli is unique as a school for Renaissance and Baroque polyphony in Greece. Founded by its current director Iason Marmaras in 2016, it works closely with the Centre for Early Music of the Athens Conservatoire and St. Paul’s to provide its Scholares with a high-level education in the singing of polyphony through monthly lectures, rehearsals and performances.

READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

First Sunday in Lent 2018

Canon Leonard Doolan

 

We begin another journey through Lent. Our gospel reading reminds us again, as it does every year, why we set aside these forty days – kali sarakosti – which culminates for us in the Great and Holy Week and the mystery of the cross.

READ MORE

IMG_20180219_083917

Clean Monday

Today we celebrate καθαρή-δευτέρα (Clean Monday). It is a public holiday in Greece and Cyprus where it is celebrated with outdoor excursions, the consumption of shellfish and other fasting food, a special kind of bread eaten only on that day, named ‘Lagana” (Greek λαγνα) and the widespread custom of flying kites. Eating meat, eggs and dairy products is traditionally forbidden to Orthodox Christians throughout Lent, with fish being eaten only on major feast days, but shellfish is permitted in European denominations. This has created the tradition of eating elaborate dishes based on seafood (shellfish, molluscs, fish roe etc). Traditionally, it is considered to mark the beginning of the spring season.

All around Greece the local bakers have been up all night to prepare the thousands of loaves which will be consumed today. Many bakers enhance the traditional Lagana with Olives, Onion or Garlic to accompany the delicious food that will be eaten today.READ MORE

Cross-Newsletter-1100

Lent, Holy Week and Easter 2018 at St Paul’s Athens

There will be plenty of opportunity for worship and prayer during this Season of Lent at St Paul’s. Please find below details of the main events.

Ash Wednesday – 14th February: Holy Liturgy at 10.00am

Tuesdays in Lent: Hour of Silent Prayer in St. Paul’s. Dates: Feb 20th, March 6th, March 13th, March 20th, March 27th

Wednesdays in Lent: Holy Liturgy at 10.00am followed at 10.30am by a short Lent Study Group ‘All Things are Possible’ This course is prepared by USPG and focuses on the 5 International Development Goals. Dates: Feb 21st ; March 7th; March 21st; March 28th.

Thursdays in Lent: A 1 hour Bible Study at the Chaplain’s Apartment 7.00pm -8.00pm Feb 22nd; March 8th; March 15th; March 22nd.

READ MORE

diocese_in_europe

Bishop’s Lent Appeal 2018

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

BISHOP’S LENT APPEAL 2018

Sustaining a Ministry of Hope for Refugees in the Calais area of France

I send you this appeal on the day when we remember the Presentation of Christ in the Temple. In all the fragility of human flesh, the baby who had been born far from home and laid in a manger is presented by his proud young parents in the Jerusalem Temple. It is a day when we especially recall the immense dignity of human nature. God not only makes human beings in his image, but redeems them by taking human nature upon himself.READ MORE

community_north_7_1100

Community Connect Northern Suburbs celebrates the New Year

On the Third Wednesday of January our Community Connect Northern Suburbs met to celebrate the New Year by the cutting of the Traditional Vassilopitta, New Year’s Cake.  Tradition has it that a coin is hidden inside the cake when it is baked, and whoever finds the coin in their slice when it is cut, is considered to have good luck for the coming year.

Community Connect Northern Suburbs, based in Kifissia, has been going for over six years and was the idea of our Deacon Chris Saccali.  She recognised that there was need for friends in the Northern Suburbs to be able to meet up occasionally and share news over a cup of coffee, preferably somewhere central. READ MORE

spring_organ_series_1100

15th Spring Organ Series Concerts

The 15th Spring Organ Series of Concerts will take place at St Paul’s Anglican Church, Athens, from Sunday 18th March 2018 until Sunday 6th May 2018.

Under the auspices of our Musical Director and Organist, MsChristina Antoniadou, BMus, MMus, LRAM (Graduate RAM & RSAMD), these series of concerts have become part of the musical life of this City. SOS is one of the longest music festivals in Athens and unique of its genre in Greece, bringing world premieres and uniting artists from many continents (Europe, Australia, South America).  The calibre and breadth of the concerts is a testament of the high regard with which Christina is held in music circles.

We hope you will make a note of the dates and come along to one, if not all, of the concerts.

For all enquiries regarding the Spring Organ Series, please contact Christina Antoniadou christina_antoniadou@yahoo.gr

READ MORE

community_connect_athens_1100

Community Connect Athens

Community Connect Athens has been running for many years as a monthly Coffee Morning whereby members of the community can meet up in a warm and safe place to comfortably sit, chat and have a cup of coffee and a slice or two of cake.  Anyone is welcome and many people who find it difficult to get out on a daily basis make a special effort to come to these Coffee Mornings and catch up on all the latest gossip and news.

More often than not we have a Raffle for 50 cents a number or Mini Bingo for two euro a game, and someone will always be seated on the “Lucky Chair’! Special occasions during the year are marked with a themed decoration or cake –New Year – Cutting of the Vasilopita (New Year’s Cake), Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween and of course Christmas – Cutting of the Christmas Cake.  Birthdays are also celebrated in a spirit of warmth and friendship.READ MORE

athinorama_concerts_1100

Divine concerts in the church. ‘Athinorama’ praises the depth & variety of St Paul’s concerts.

For some years now the Anglican church of St. Paul’s has been one of the most interesting concert venues, mainly for classical music. The last two years electronic or pop mood music has also been held there, making it one of the main attractions for the fans of contemporary music.

It might not draw the attention as one passes outside, on the corner of Filellinon and Amalias street, but the inside of St. Paul’s is certainly compelling with the light refracted through the impressive stained glass windows and the music which can be played on the oldest church organ in our country. This is the reason why for many years concerts for classical music have been traditionally held in this historical church in the centre of Athens and also at specific times of the year, like the spring cycles of organ concerts.READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Sunday Sermon | 21 January 2018

I once saw and interesting clip on television. Someone stood still in a public square and looked upwards, staring into the sky. It wasn’t long until others stopped and gazed upwards, or glanced skyward to see what it was that others were staring at. Maybe I should try it in Syntagma some time.

We are now in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity – always a challenging week in many respects. The Christian church is a kaleidoscope of different expressions.READ MORE

Vasilopita_1_1100

Happy New Year!

Community Connect Athens met for the first time in 2018 last Wednesday. Greetings of ‘Chronia Polla’, and ‘Happy New Year’ filled the air and the Vassilopitta was cut producing not just one but two lucky winners of the Golden Coin which, according to tradition, brings a year of good luck. 

READ MORE

coffee_morning_1_1100

First coffee morning of 2018

The first Community Connect Coffee Morning of 2018 will take place next Wednesday 10th January at the Swedish Centre, Diadalou 18, Plaka Athens, between 10.30 – 12.30 hrs.

READ MORE

scratch_nativity_1_1100

Nativity Play

This morning, Sunday 24th December, was the first time in many years that there was a Nativity Play in St. Paul’s Athens.

READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Christmas 2017

We often expect to see some good films over the Christmas period. I find that a really good film has deep, almost hidden religious themes, and these are enlightening. Maybe not all film directors realize this. Something new about faith can be learnt from a good movie. This was in my mind yesterday. Lynne and I had decided to go and see Paddington. It has had great reviews. I thought there could well be something I could learn before preparing my sermon for this morning.

READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Advent 3 | Thessaloniki

Is 61, 1-4, 8-end; 1 Thess 5, 16-24; John 1, 6-8, 19-28  (Canon LW Doolan)

It is not always a positive thing to be defined by what you are not. There is something of the protest in that type of approach. Protest is something I now have to live with. Being in the centre of Athens, as many of you will know, is a constant series of protests which brings a good deal of disruption in its wake.READ MORE

Bazaar_post_1_1100

The 64th Christmas Bazaar | Sunday 26th November 2017

As we cautiously opened our shutters on Sunday morning we heaved a sigh of relief to see blue sky and sunshine.  This was a good omen for the rest of the day!

At 7.30am Nigel Daniels and his band of merry men met at the Church to attend to the herculean task of loading everything that had been collected at the Church during the previous week, onto the back of a lorry for transportation to Aegli Zappiou restaurant where the Bazaar was to be held. They then went over to Aegli to unload all the goods again and take them to their respective stalls.READ MORE

Remembrance_post_3_1100

Remembrance Sunday at St Paul’s

On Sunday 12th November, Her Excellency Kate Smith CMG, British Ambassador to Greece, together with several other Ambassadors and Diplomatic Dignitaries, attended the Annual Service of Remembrance at St Paul’s Church.

A wreath of Poppies was laid upon the Altar at the start of the service which included the hymns “Praise my soul”, “Eternal Father strong to save”, “Blest are the pure in heart”, “O God our help in ages past”, and “Now thank we all our God”.READ MORE

Messiah_post_1100

Handel’s Messiah Singalong

“Hallelujah!” St Paul’s Anglican Church, Athens is delighted to invite you to celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season by coming to the ‘Singalong Messiah’, which will be performed for the seventh year on Sunday December 10th at 8.00 pm. READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Remembrance Sunday 2017 | Sermon

Our Anglican Lectionary guides us in a particular direction this morning. It would seem we are to consider Wisdom. Not only have we a reading from the Book of Wisdom, but we have, in our second reading, a parable of Our Lord, about the foolishness and wisdom of some virgins.

Wisdom, Sophia, is a powerful theme that runs through the Old Testament scriptures in its own distinctive genre of literature and is developed into the Christian era. A word of wisdom is particularly associated with the desert Abba or Amma. On this Remembrance Sunday I propose that we stay with wisdom as our theme.READ MORE

Remembrance_2_1100

Remembrance Sunday 2017

St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens will be holding its annual Remembrance Day Service on Sunday 12th November 2017 at 10.15 hrs.

Prayers will be said for the dead of the Two World Wars, as well as all subsequent wars and a wreath of poppies will be laid on the Alter.

READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

All Saints Sunday 2017

1 John 3, 1-3; Rev 7, 9-end; Matthew 5, 1-12

I have a confession to make. I am absolutely hopeless sin understanding how to use new technology. I feel not so much like a Luddite, which is like an iconoclast, but more like a dinosaur, which is prehistoric.

I can email, and like to email. My mobile phone can receive my emails as well. This is big step forward for me. I can take pictures on my phone – but I don’t know how to forward them  to anyone else, so they just sit there in my photo gallery. I can text with my phone, though my fingers are too clumsy, so I often accidentally send off a message when I’m only half way through it.READ MORE

harvest_festival_1100

St Paul’s Harvest Festival – Sunday 22nd October 2017

Last Sunday, the congregation of St Paul’s made a ‘marathon’ effort to reach the coach taking them up to the Kokotos Winery in Stamata, Northern Athens, to celebrate their Harvest Festival.

There, in the Sunshine, surrounded by Vines, we gave thanks and sang praise to our Creator for his Creation. During the Service Fr Leonard gave a sermon in which he said that Harvest reminds us of our relationship both to Creation and to the Creator. Read the full text of the sermon here.READ MORE

farewell_1100

To all our friends at St Paul’s and beyond

The time has come for Olga and myself not to say a final ‘goodbye’ but rather a heartfelt ‘au revoir’. It has been a long and at times demanding sojourn in Athens. There have been moments of frustration and anxiety but these have been over ridden by so much that was sheer delight and joy. If asked as to whether or not we would do it all over again then we would firmly say, ‘Yes’.READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Trinity 18 2017 | Harvest Sermon

I have not been in the Peloponnese since 1978. I sailed by ferry from  Italy to Patras, and then on to Athens for three weeks study at the British School (of Archaology and Topography). From the School we visited Mycenae, Epidavros, Olympia and Korinth. So after such a long time it is good to be back.

There is a legend, of course, about a monk called St. Regulus, who visited Patras and took possession of some of the bones of St. Andrew and transported them to the east coast of Scotland, giving the name to the town and later the University of St. Andrews. This year the university celebrates its 600th anniversary, and it was my first university. So some little connections!

READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Trinity 18 2017 | St. Paul’s Athens

Isiaiah 25, 1-9; Philippians 4, 1-9; Matt 22, 1-14

 

Many years ago I was a Team Rector in North East Suffolk. Lynne and I lived in a small market town called Halesworth  near to Southwold famous for its Adnams beer, and Adnams is a very good wine supplier as well. I recommend the Adnams ‘Fizz’ which friends from Suffolk used to bring us as a present when we were in Crawley and Cirencester.

Halesworth Team Ministry had its own very well produced church magazine called Team Times. The quality of its production was really only possible because we had a truly wonderful woman called Margaret Deering who sold advertising space to local businesses. READ MORE

Harvest_festival_1_1100

St. Paul’s Harvest Festival

The Harvest Festival celebration takes places on Sunday 18th October at the Kokotos Estate, Semeli Str., Stamata, Attica 145 75. We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating this year’s harvest in the winery’s beautiful surroundings.READ MORE

wedding_3_1100

Wedding

Natalia and Christian Reihe celebrate with a blessing of their marriage in St. Paul’s church, Athens. In the short homily, picking up phrase from a poem called ‘Someone’ Fr. Leonard developed the idea that love is about the heart in communion with the heart, and that this is how we connect to the heart of God’s love for us.READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Trinity 14 2017 | St. Paul’s Athens

Matthew 18, 21-36

Today the Church of England remembers the Battle of Britain. Between  1940 and 1941 the Royal Air Force fought the Luftwaffe against very heavy odds in a period commonly called ‘the blitz’. London, Portsmouth, Bath, Coventry, the Clyde in Glasgow – all these and more suffered from the bombing campaign of Germany. In September  of that same year RAF Bomber command began a series of night raids over Germany that marked a turning point in the war with Germany as the RAF disrupted German plans to invade Britain in what was known as Operation Sea Lion.

READ MORE

Baptisms

On Sunday 20th August, Baby Zoe Athena Constantidis was welcomed into our congregation as she was baptised at St Paul’s. We send her and her family our congratulations and ask everyone to keep them in your prayers.

READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Trinity 12 2017 | St. Paul’s Athens

Jeremiah 15, 15-21; Rom 12, 9-end; Matt 16, 21-end

There are times when other people drag you down. Lynne and I are generally quite cheerful and positive people. In our various parishes over the years we have encountered some very gloomy people indeed. These are people for whom it is always December, but never Christmas; always Lent but never Easter. When we encounter such people it is such a temptation to enter into their gloominess and share the negative views that they are spouting out. In my last parish we decided that whenever anyone said anything negative we would counter it with the exact opposite – even if we are feeling the same as them, or sharing their views. It made quite a difference, in fact, and some people either gave up expressing anything to us, or genuinely started to be a bit more positive.

READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Trinity 10 2017 | St. Paul’s Athens

Isaiah 56,1, 6-8; Romans 11, 1-2, 29-32; Matthew 15, 21-28

It is funny how zoological my preaching seems to be at the moment. Some of you might remember a sermon I preached here a couple of years ago about how to eat an elephant – ‘in small pieces’. Then over the last few weeks we connected the little guinea pig type animal called a hyrax  to its nearest relative, which is an elephant;  then last week we had the irritated pig. Today we are keeping up the theme.

READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Trinity 9 2017 | St. Paul’s Athens

Romans 10,5-13; St. Matthew 14, 22-33

I had dinner the other evening with a couple I haven’t met before. They are Athenians but now live in America. They are here on a family holiday. The reason we met up is because we have a mutual friend who works alongside them in New York. So as we were chatting away Kosta came up with a phrase I hadn’t heard before and I immediately liked it. Here it is:

‘It is very difficult to teach a pig to dance, and what’s more it irritates the pig’.

READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Trinity 6 2017 | St. Paul’s Athens

Is 44, 6-8; Romans 8 12-25; Matt 13, 24-30, 36-43

I wonder how many of you know what a Hirax is? It is a funny little creature that you find in parts of north and east Africa. Strangely enough you also find them around the shores of the Sea of Galilee.

Hiraxes are a little bigger than guinea pigs, have special padded feet that allow them to climb on rocks and they are very good at jumping. They entertain tourists and pilgrims effectively when they visit Galilee. So far you might think I’m making it up, but the best is yet to come. Although this little mammal is like a large guinea pig the nearest animal to it genetically in the animal kingdom is the elephant. There you are – now you are convinced I’m telling you a pack of lies.

READ MORE

sermons_featured_image

Trinity 4 2017 | St. Paul’s Athens

When the Body of Christ, whose sign is the church, is invited forward to receive the signs of Christ’s body and blood, the bread and the wine, there are a number of choices for the words we can use. One option is ‘Draw near with faith. Receive the body of our Lord Jesus Christ which he gave for you, and his blood which he shed for you. Eat and drink in remembrance that Christ died for you, and feed on him in your hearts by faith with thanksgiving.

READ MORE

Induction_1_1100

The Induction of the Revd. Canon Leonard Wallace Doolan

About sixty-five people gathered in St. Paul’s on June 30th, a swelteringly hot evening, to witness the Induction of Father Leonard. Among the guests were representatives of the Greek Orthodox Church, including the Bishop of Nazianzou, Theodoritos, and Bishop Gabriel. Also in attendance was Embassy staff, members of the Salvation Army and Apostoli. The Greek Evangelical Church was also represented. Last but not least, our outgoing and much-loved Father Malcolm and his wife, Olga. The Archdeacon paid tribute to Father Malcolm and thanked him for his work during his ministry here.

READ MORE

Doolan_couple

Welcoming Fr Leonard Doolan

Following the inauguration of the new Chaplain next Friday, we would like to invite all Parishioners, old and new, from Kifissia to Glyfada to Voula to attend the Sung Eucharist next Sunday 2 July to welcome Fr Leonard Doolan as he celebrates his first service with us. We look forward to seeing you there!

mystery_worshipper

A “Mysterious Worshiper” at St Paul’s

The Mystery Worshipper, which produced this report, is run by shipoffools.com, the online magazine of Christian unrest. Mystery Worshippers are volunteers who visit churches of all denominations worldwide, leaving a calling card in the collection plate and posting a first-timer’s impression of services on Ship of Fools.

READ MORE

Ainos_holy_week

The Co-incidence of the Western and Orthodox Easter

Normally the Orthodox Christian Church celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ later than the catholic one. While the issue is somewhat complicated, it may be summarized in the two factors at work that cause this conflict in dates:

1) The issue of the calendar; and
2) the adherence by the Orthodox to the early practices of the Christian Church.

READ MORE

nounou_featured

Thank you!

We are immensely grateful to Friesland Campina, manufacturers of the NOYNOY Evaporated milk that we have been collecting for the refugee children in the camps on Samos.

READ MORE

Junior_Church_3

Our Junior Church

The theme of Creation has kept our young ones busy for quite a while now. They present their art work to the congregation at the end of the Sunday service. READ MORE

Board_meeting_February_2

The first meeting of the Board of the Anglican Church in Greece

On 9th February, in the presence of Archdeacon Colin Williams and others, the members of the Board of the Anglican Church in Greece (Canon Malcolm Bradshaw of Athens, Rev’d Philip Lambert of Crete, Rev’d Julian Wilson of Corfu and Churchwarden, Marie-Jeanne Morphy Karatza of Patras) met for their first meeting in Athens. READ MORE

MedIn_tinned_milk_2

Lenten Almsgiving

The Anglican Church in Athens works closely with MedIn, a Greek NGO. MedIn has a strong presence in the reception centre for refugees in Samos.  READ MORE

dav

A successor to Fr. Malcolm

On Sunday 19th February it was officially announced that the Rev’d Canon Leonard Doolan has been appointed to succeed Fr. Malcolm as Senior Chaplain in Athens. He will take up the post on 1st July. The interview, chaired by Bishop Robert the Diocesan, was held in Athens on the 9th February. Churchwarden Nigel Daniels and Susan Stephosrepresented the Chaplaincy on the interviewing panel.

READ MORE

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Community Connect celebrates the New Year

On the second and third Wednesdays of January Community Connect in Athens and Kifissia met to celebrate the New Year by cutting the traditional Vassilopitta – the Cake of St Basel (New Year’s Cake) whose feast day falls on 1st January.

READ MORE

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Thanksgiving for Justin Paige Allen

Justin Paige Allen was presented to the Congregation of the Anglican Church in Athens last Sunday by his proud parents Marcos and Amy Allen, as we said ‘Prayers of Thanksgiving ​for the Gift of a Child’.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

The Singalong Messiah

Handel’s Messiah Sing Along

Sunday 11 December 2016

St Paul’s Anglican Church in Athens was filled with a chorus of voices as members of the public, choirs and professional soloists took part in a Sing Along performance of Handel’s Messiah.

READ MORE

Wren2 1608x1165

Bird Psalm

The Swallow said,
He comes like me,
Longed for; unexpectedly.

The superficial eye
Will pass him by,
Said the Wren.

The best singer ever heard.
No one will take much notice,
Said the Blackbird.

The Owl said,
He is who, who is he
Who enters the heart as soft
As my soundless wings, as me.

Capturing the spirit of Christmas as only a poet can, U.A. Fanthorpe, CBE (1929-2009) would send out cards to relatives and friends with verse according to the whim of the moment. ‘Bird Psalm’ is included in her book Christmas Poems, BC-AD, illustrated by Nick Wadley and published in 2002 by Enitharmon Press, which presents the entirety of these original Christmas cards.

handel

Sing-along Messiah

For the sixth year running, St Paul’s Anglican Church in Athens is delighted to host the popular “Sing-along Messiah” on Sunday 11th December at 8.00pm.

Scores are available to purchase at the door should you wish to sing along with the choir, or just come along and relax as you listen once again to this beautiful and uplifting score.

If you wish to practice beforehand the programme for the evening can be downloaded here

Tickets €5, Students & unemployed €3.

All proceeds go towards supporting St Paul’s and the Charities we work with.

13 Nov 3 (Copy)

Remembrance Sunday at St Paul’s Anglican Church Athens

On Sunday 13th November, Fr Malcolm led the congregation in a Service of Remembrance to honour all those who died in the Two World Wars and in subsequent conflicts around the world. Official guests included Their Excellences the Ambassadors for Great Britain, Ireland, Canada and Slovakia, theConsul General for New Zealand, and the British, French and Canadian Defence Attaches.The Rev Rabbi Gabriel Negrin of the Beth Shalom Synagogue was also in attendance.

READ MORE

coffee-beans-and-steaming-cup

New Kifissia venue for Community Connect coffee mornings

As of October 2016, Community Connect coffee mornings in Kifissia, held every third Wednesday of the month, have a new venue: the Loida Scripture Union Home for the Elderly (one of the Chaplaincy charities), Ionias 46 & Levidou, Kifissia (above Harilaou Trikoupi).  Drivers please be aware of the one-way system!READ MORE

Greek sea

Summer Services at St. Paul’s

Greek summer and the lure of blue skies and blue sea is strong… But whether you admire the wide horizon from a mountainside or from the sea shore, if you’re in town over the weekend do attend services on a Sunday! Consult the Calendar for the exact time – and be assured of a smiling welcome.

Ordination

THE ORDINATION AS DEACON OF CHRISTINE SACCALI

Sunday 3rd July was a time of joyful celebration as, for the ordination of our Reader, Christine Saccali, to the Distinctive Diaconate, we welcomed to Athens Bishop David Hamid, Suffragan Bishop of the Diocese in Europe, together with the Archdeacon of the East, the Ven. Colin Williams; the Diocesan Director of Ordinands, the Rev. Canon William Gulliford; the Deacon of the Rite and Preacher, the Rev. Deacon Frances Hill; and, the Rev. Robin Fox (who acted as Bishop David’s chaplain during the Service).READ MORE

WE REMEMBER

In a “postcard” from the Yorkshire Dales, Jean Mertzanakis links the exhibition at St. Paul’s in honour of those who fought in the Great War to the commemoration included on Armed Forces Day in the market town of Skipton.READ MORE

Andrea di Bonaiuto, 1366
Santa Maria Novella (Florence)

Easter Services at St. Paul’s

As we enter Holy Week and prepare for Easter Sunday -Christianity’s most important and oldest festival celebrating the resurrection of Christ- here is a reminder of the services scheduled at St. Paul’s Anglican Church over this period.READ MORE

services far riight

Fr Malcolm on Queen’s New Year’s Honours List

We are delighted to announce that our Chaplain, the Rev. Canon Malcolm Bradshaw, has been awarded the MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List.
The citation reads as follows: ‘Rev. Canon Malcolm McNeille Bradshaw. Senior chaplain, Anglican church (Greece). For services to interfaith understanding and community charities.’
We send him our heartiest congratulations!

Refugees with rainbow

Responding to the refugee crisis in Greece

In recent weeks, Fr. Malcolm has received an increasing number of questions about the refugees arriving in Greece and the response of the Anglican Church in Athens to this ongoing humanitarian crisis. In order to inform the greatest number possible, he has summarized the Chaplaincy’s response to the refugee crisis since last September.

READ MORE

Print

How do you eat an elephant

THE QUESTION is put – how do you eat an elephant. The answer is – in small pieces.

“How do you eat an elephant?” These were the opening words of the sermon given by the Rev. Canon Leonard Doolan, vicar of Cirencester, at St Paul’s Athens, on the 13th September after the reading of Matthew’s account of the Feeding of the Four Thousand with only seven loaves and a few fish (Matthew, 15:29-39).

READ MORE

Bishop Robert

Bishop Robert in Athens

IN MID-JANUARY 2015 Bishop Robert visited Greece as a guest of the Archbishop of Athens and also spent time with Fr Malcolm and members of the Chaplaincy. He met with representatives of Anglican congregations from Athens, Crete, Corfu, Patras and Nafplion, in order to discuss the new Constitution of the Anglican Church in Greece, and he and Fr Malcolm also visited some of the organisations we work within our outreach programme.

READ MORE