News and Events

For upcoming events click on Calendar.

2009 Fall Diocesan Meeting

The fall diocesan meeting was held on Saturday, October 31, 2009. Host parish was St. George Cathedral in Worcester.

2009 Parish Life Conference (June) Meeting
The summer Diocesan meeting was held on Thursday, June 25, 2009, during the Parish Life Conference at the Wyndham Hotel in Andover, MA, hosted by St. George Church in Lawrence.

DIAKONIA
The Officers and Coordinators of our diocese, and several photos from our May meeting, are featured in the Summer 2009 issue of DIAKONIA, the quarterly newsletter of the North American Board of the Antiochian Women.

2009 Spring Diocesan Meeting
The spring diocesan meeting was held on Saturday, May 2, 2009. Host parish was St. Mary, Cambridge.

2009 Spring Fling
On April 4 we had our Spring Fling at the Russian Icon Museum in Clinton, followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant. The Museum is beautiful, and the icons were magnificent. The two special exhibits we saw were “Two Museums, One Culture,” with icons on loan from the State Tretyakov Gallery,in Moscow, and “Palekh: From Icons to Souvenir Boxes to Icons”, items made with the Russian folk handicraft of miniature painting. We were fortunate enough to have the museum’s curator as our very informative tour guide. There were only 12 people in our group, but all agreed that it was such a wonderful trip that many are making plans to go back.

2009 Lenten Retreat
This year’s Lenten Retreat was held Saturday, March 7, at St. George Church in Norwood. Dr. Elizabeth H. Prodromou, Asst. Professor in the Department of International Relations at Boston University, and Faculty Coordinator of the M.A. Program in International Relations and Religion, spoke eloquently on the topic, Orthodox Christian Unity: What, Why, Why Not Yet?

2009 Winter Diocesan Meeting
The winter diocesan meeting was held on Saturday, January 31, 2009. Host parish was St. John of Damascus, Dedham.

2008 Fall Diocesan Meeting

The fall diocesan meeting was held on Saturday, November 15, 2008. Host parish was St. George Church in West Roxbury.

2008 Parish Life Conference (June) Meeting

The summer Diocesan meeting was held on Thursday, June 26, 2008, during the Parish Life Conference at the Mariott Hotel in Providence, RI, hosted by St. Mary Church, Pawtucket.

2008 Spring Diocesan Meeting

The spring diocesan meeting was held on Saturday, April 12, 2008. Host parish was St. George Church in Lowell.

2008 Pre-Lenten Retreat

On Saturday March 1st a retreat was held at St. George Church of Norwood. The day started with Divine Liturgy followed by registration. Fr. Deacon Seraphim Solof then led us in the topic of the retreat; Church Teaching and Contemporary Bioethical Issues. The talk focused on such topics as stem cell research, cloning, organ transplant and other current issues. Father started the session with a survey of stem cell research and cloning before we broke for lunch. Following a lunch prepared by the women of St. George we heard about issues regarding organ transplants and euthanasia. Father was very informative and many women commented on how pleased they were to have attended. Many questions were asked to which Father answered with expertise. (Thanks to Louise Ferguson, Religious Coordinator, for this report)

 

2008 Winter Diocesan Meeting

The winter diocesan meeting was held on Saturday, February 9, 2008. Host parish was St. George Church in West Roxbury

 

New Publication
Our Public Relations officer, Pam Samara, recently inaugurated a new quarterly newsletter designed to keep us informed about what the Antiochian Women are doing in the individual parishes of our diocese. To see the first issue, click here. To open this file you need Adobe Reader. If you don't have it, you can get it free by clicking Get Adobe Acrobat Reader. Pam needs regular submissions from every parish to keep this newsletter interesting and informative. Please send your meeting ideas, photos, book reviews, fund raising ideas, member news, etc. to pms AT townisp DOT com.

2007 Fall Diocesan Meeting

The fall diocesan meeting was held on Saturday, October 13, 2007. Host parish was St. George Cathedral in Worcester.

2007 Parish Life Conference (June) Meeting

The summer Diocesan meeting was held on Thursday, June 28, 2007, during the Parish Life Conference at the Radison in Plymouth, MA.

2007 Pre-Lenten Retreat

This year's annual Pre-Lenten Retreat was held on Saturday, February 10, 2007, at St. George Orthodox Church, 6 Atwood St., Norwood MA. The theme was "To Be or To Have, this is the Question - Humanity's Destiny According to the Holy Scripture," and the leader was Rev. Fr. Eugen Pentiuc. Fr. Eugene is professor of Old Testament and Semitic languages and chair of the Religious Studies Department at Hellenic College and Holy Cross Seminary in Brookline, MA. Fr. Eugen guided us through a thought-provoking look at the rich imagery and metaphor presented in the Biblical account of creation and assisted us in understanding God's purpose for humanity. (The title has to do with Genesis 2:7, which says "humanity became a living breath.")

2007 Winter Diocesan Meeting

The winter diocesan meeting was held on Saturday, January 20, 2007. Host parish was St. John of Damascus Church in Dedham.

2006 Fall Diocesan Meeting

The fall diocesan meeting was held on Saturday, September 30, 2006. Host parish was St. George Church in Lawrence.

2006 Parish Life Conference Meeting

The summer regional meeting was held on Friday, June 23, 2006, during the Parish Life Conference at the Margate on Winnipesaukee, Laconia, New Hampshire. Host parish for the conference was St. George Church, West Roxbury, MA.

2006 Pre Lenten Retreat

The Pre Lenten Retreat was held on Saturday, February 25th, at Hellenic College/ Holy Cross Seminary in Brookline. The theme was "Living with a Mission Mindset: Receiving God’s Love and Sharing It." The guest speaker was Fr. Luke Veronis, Adjunct Professor at St. Vladimir’s Seminary & Holy Cross Seminary and former missionary in Albania.

2005 Parish Life Conference Meeting

The Antiochian Women meeting was held on June 24, in Danvers, MA. It was a fruitful meeting.

2005 Pre-Lenten Retreat

The Pre-Lenten Retreat was held on Saturday, March 5, at Hellenic College/Holy Cross Seminary. The theme was Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are you? (Acts 19:15) The guest speaker was the V. Rev. Michael Abdelahad, Dean of St. George Cathedral, Worcester.

2008 June (Parish Life) Minutes

Diocesan Meeting
Parish Life Conference
Providence, RI
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Antiochian Women
Diocese of Worcester and New England


Opening Prayer – The meeting was opened at 2:30 p.m. with the Antiochian Women’s prayer led by Marilyn Robbat. There were 20 members present.

Roll Call –

Executive Board Present: Advisor – V. Rev. Edward Hughes, President – Nora Walker, Vice President – Delores George, Treasurer – Carol Swydan, Corresponding Secretary – Joan Hanna., Past President - Priscilla Goss`

Absent: Recording Secretary – Nancy Ghantous

Coordinators Present: Public Relations – Pam Samara, Humanitarian – Gladys Laham, Website – Melissa Nassiff ,

Membership – Marilyn Robbat, Religious – Kh. Louise Ferguson

Parish Delegates:

St. Mary, Cambridge - 4

St. John, Dedham - 2

St. George, Lawrence – 0

St. George, Lowell - 1

St. George, Norwood - 3

St. George, W. Roxbury - 2

St. George, Worcester - 1

St. Mary, Pawtucket - 4

St. Michael Cotuit - 0

All Saints Mission S. Weymouth - 0

St. Elias Mission Fall River - 0

Secretary’s Report – Nancy Ghantous

Since Nancy was unable to attend the meeting, the Minutes of the Diocesan meeting at St. George, Lowell, MA, April 12 , 2008 were distributed for everyone to read. Joan Hanna will record the minutes for the meeting of June 26, 2008. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Mary Ellen Mabardy. The motion was carried after being seconded by Katie Birtwell.

Treasurer’s Report – Carol Swydan

Our checking account and CD balances were reported. A motion to accept the report was made by Priscilla Goss. The motion was passed after being seconded by Martha Stewart.

Vice President – Project Report – Delores George

Vice President Delores George reported the total Project Money, $14,202.79, has been sent to NAB. She submitted a written report detailing the total amounts collected by each chapter. A motion to accept the report was made by Marilyn Robbat. The motion was carried after being seconded by Delores Elias.

NA.B. Report - Violet Robbat, Vice President/NABProject gave a report on the conception of the Antiochian Women. In 1972 Metropolitan Philip said the women have a definite ministry in the life of the Church besides being in the kitchen of the Church. Therefore, he asked Helen Rihbany to explore this line of thinking. She spent one year and visited every diocese. She compiled her report and gave it to the Metropolitan. The first President was Pauline Maloof. Violet mentioned all our projects. Every Christmas we give the Seminarians a gift which they can spend anyway they wish. With an original goal of five years we have reached the $500,000 mark for the Retired Clergy within four years. The New England Region has raised more money than any other diocese. The next new challenge has not been announced. Violet will attend the National meeting at the Heritage and Learning Center at the Antiochian Village in July 2008.

Coordinators and Committee Reports:

Website – Melissa Nassiff http://www.antiochian.org/neraocwna

Melissa Nassiff updated us on the newsletter on the website. Members can contact her with new information to put on the site by using her e-mail address: mnassiff@rcn.com.

Public Relations – Pam Samara

President Nora thanked Pam for all her work. In her recent newsletter she highlighted facts about Fr. Hughes in a quiz for everyone to answer. She had copies of the Diakonia if anyone needed them. She would like any news by the September meeting. Pam passed out copies of the newsletter for our Diocese of Worcester and New England which should be copied and given to chapter members. She has sent e-mails to each chapter with a colored copy of the newsletter attached. Anyone can send information for their club’s events to her by mail (304 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545) or e-mail pms@townisp.com .

Religious – Kh. Louise Ferguson

When Louise receives her copy of the Sophia Publication, the quarterly religious magazine of NAB, she copies and gives it out to every chapter. She stressed the importance of daily prayer and requested suggestions of a new topic for our next retreat 2009. Violet suggested we put the request on the AOCWNA website.

Humanitarian – Gladys Laham

Gladys Laham thanked all the chapters for their contributions to the Hasbro Children’s Hospital. All gift cards were signed Antiochian Women. She displayed all the items for all to see. Next year Mary Ellen Mabardy will be Humanitarian Coordinator.

Membership – Marilyn Robbat

Marilyn gave out copies of the favorite “Prayer of Metropolitan Philaret of Moscow” written in the summer copy of the Diakonia in loving memory of Kourieh Joanne Abdalah. She gave out an article on Saints and hopes more people will become committed to becoming contemporary apostles for the Orthodox Church.

Spiritual Advisor’s Remarks – Fr. Edward Hughes

Fr. Hughes repeated Metropolitan Philip’s admiration for the Ladies’ Groups. Every Parish in the Archdiocese is founded by the women. He recounted how women have come along and taken on a major role. How important we are to the life of the Church and our children. Women have a special bond with the Holy Spirit. Women have shown up in every aspect of Jesus’ life. Some women in the community live alone in monasteries. Nuns started with St. Ann mother of the Theotokos. The Parish is a family. Women set the tone and atmosphere of the Parish. Young women of today are not as involved in the Church. They don’t have enough time for family, work and Church. Encourage young people to set priorities and put the Church in our lives.

New Business – Nora Walker encouraged members to bring an extra person to the meeting in September.

Priscilla Goss gave out a survey to fill out. It was suggested at one of our meetings we have a program about Icons of Women Saints. Christine Ferguson (St. George, West Roxbury) is in contact with a woman who would be willing to give a presentation at one of our meetings. Our Vice President Delores suggested we visit the Icon Museum in Clinton, MA.

Nora will be sending out a calendar to all Chapter Presidents so they can list all their events from September to June, fill it in and return to her. She read next year’s schedule and is going to make sure Teen Soyo, and St. John the Divine are aware of these dates.

President’s Remarks – Pres. Nora Walker

Nora gave out a “Women of the Bible” crisscross puzzle, which she asked the group to fill out and bring back in September. Gladys Laham and Marilyn Rabbat will be co-chairs for a 35th anniversary party of AOCWNA in November. Our new members joined from the Charismatic Evangelical Church of West Brookfield, MA. Their entire congregation will be joining the Archdiocese. They will be under the Worcester Diocese.

A Motion to Adjourn was made at 3:45 by Jameely Aoude and was passed after being seconded by Rose George.

Respectfully Submitted,

Nancy Ghantous, Secretary

2008 June (Parish Life) Photos

Head Table Head Table 2
Metropolitan PHILIP President Nora W
NAB VP
Raffle Winner

2008 Spring Meeting Minutes

Diocesan Meeting

St. George, Lowell

Saturday, April 12, 2008

Antiochian Women

Diocese of Worcester and New England

 

Opening Prayer – The meeting was opened at 10:45 with the Antiochian Women’s prayer led by President Nora Walker. There were 25 members present.

Roll Call –

Executive Board Present: Advisor – V.Rev. Edward Hughes, President – Nora Walker, Vice President – Delores George, Treasurer – Carol Swydan, Recording Secretary – Nancy Ghantous,

Absent: Corresponding Secretary – Joan Hanna., Past President - Priscilla Goss

Coordinators Present: Public Relations – Pam Samara,

Absent : Humanitarian - Kh. Anna Hughes, Website – Melissa Nassiff , Membership –Kh. Margaret Wilhelm,

Religious – Kh. Louise Ferguson

Executive

Parish Delegates:

St. Mary, Cambridge - 3

St. John, Dedham - 2

St. George, Lawrence – 1

St. George, Lowell - 4

St. George, Norwood - 0

St. George, W. Roxbury - 1

St. George, Worcester - 1

St. Mary, Pawtucket - 2

St. Michael Cotuit - 0

All Saints Mission S. Weymouth - 0

St. Elias Mission Fall River - 0

Secretary’s Report – Nancy Ghantous

Minutes of the Diocesan meeting at St. George, West Roxbury on February 9, 2008 were read by Nancy. A motion to accept was made by Louise Homsy. The motion was carried after being seconded by Mary Ellen Mabardy.

Treasurer’s Report – Carol Swydan

Our checking account balance was reported, along with the total in CD’s. A motion to accept the report was made by Louise Ansara. The motion was passed after being seconded by Violet Robbat.

Parish Life Conference: Salwa Khoury

Since Salwa was unable to attend the meeting, papers for the 2008 Annual Parish Life Conference which will be held in Providence, RI from June 25th – June 29th were given out by President Nora Walker. The AOCWNA luncheon will be $25.00 and registration $10.00. It will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2008 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. followed by the meeting at 2:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. She asked everyone to make reservations as early as possible so they will know how many will be attending. Violet Robbat put into motion that Carol Swydan inquire if the Conference would give AOCWNA the price of $200.00 instead of $250.00 for a full page ad in the Parish Life Conference AD Book. The motion was passed after being seconded by Laurice Kurker.

Vice President – Project Report – Delores George

Vice President Delores George read her report. She asked that each chapter send her a report describing their Project and the amount of the Collection proceeds so that she can submit them to Violet Robbat, Vice President/NABProject. The treasurer of each chapter should send the checks for the proceeds from their chapters’ Projects to Treasurer Carol Swydan with a cover letter explaining how the money was collected before May 1, 2008.

Coordinators and Committee Reports:

Website – Melissa Nassiff http://www.antiochian.org/neraocwna

President Nora read Melissa’s report because she was unable to attend. She encouraged everyone to take a look at the News and Events page where Photos from the February 9th winter meeting and the Secretary’s Minutes have been added. There are photos and a brief report from the Pre-Lenten Retreat. Members can contact her with new information to put on the site by using her e-mail address: mnassiff@rcn.com.

Public Relations – Pam Samara

Pam passed out copies of the newsletter for our Diocese of Worcester and New England which should be copied and given to chapter members. She has sent e-mails to each chapter with a colored copy of the newsletter attached. The presidents of each chapter can send information for their club’s events to her by mail (304 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545) or e-mail pms@townisp.com .

Religious – Kh. Louise Ferguson

Since Kh. Louise was unable to attend the meeting Carol Swydan read her report. During the annual Pre-Lenten Retreat held at St. George of Norwood on March 1, 2008 the speaker, Deacon Seraphim Solof discussed the Orthodox Perspective on Bioethical Issues. The Retreat was attended by 35 people despite the snow. Carol suggested that we choose guest speakers from the New England area for our future retreats as we have any number of excellent speakers in our archdiocese.

Membership – Kh. Margaret Wilhelm

Marilyn Robbat has replaced Kh. Margaret Wilhelm as Membership Coordinator. She got everyone’s attention by passing nails to each member and a paper explaining the purpose of the nails is to remind us of Jesus’s love for us each time we look at it. We must not forget Jesus was held to the cross not by nails-but by love. She suggested each chapter review copies of Guidelines for Increasing Membership in the Antiochian Women. Suggestions for programs to bring in new members were outlined on copies of an e-mail from the Chapter in Worcester.

Humanitarian – Kh. Anna Hughes

Gladys Laham has replaced Kh. Anna Hughes as Humanitarian Coordinator temporarily. She reported our annual charity project this year will be Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence, RI. Nora Walker and Gladys will determine what will be the appropriate donations for the children who are patients at the hospital. Suggestions were given for teddy bears, coloring books, puzzles, or games, etc. Gladys will send letters to each chapter explaining what they can donate and that each chapter can spend the amount they wish to on items.

Old Business –

President Nora Walker reviewed the tentative dates for the 2008-2009 meetings. Dates will be coordinated with the Youth Group, Clergy and Fellowship. They are as follows: 9/20/08 - St. George, Lawrence; 1/24/09 - St. John, Dedham; 5/2/09 -St. Mary, Cambridge; 6/25/09 - Parish Life Conference

N.A.B. Report – Violet Robbat, Vice President of N.A.B, thanked everyone for the phenomenal amounts of donations from each chapter for the Retired Clergy Project. The goal was originally $500,000 to be raised in five years. Metropolitan Philip will decide if we have reached our goal at the end of the fourth year. The nine chapters in the Diocese of Worcester and New England have raised proportionately more than all the other Dioceses.

Spiritual Advisor’s Remarks – Fr. Edward Hughes

Fr. Hughes explained that in the Orthodox Church, March is a special Ladies’ month because of the Akathist Feast Day, which is the most important feast of the Virgin Mary through out the year. It is celebrated the first Sunday of lent to proclaim the return of Icons that had been burned and destroyed during an Islamic movement in Asia Minor in 600 B.C. The feast of the Annunciation was moved to the time of lent to celebrate the freedom to venerate icons after centuries of denial.

New Business – Nora Walker asked for members to attend the N.A.B conference which will be held July 25 – 27, 2008. If anyone is interested please contact Nora or Carol Swydan. A new Humanitarian Coordinator is needed for the 2008-2009 session. In order to increase our membership she suggested that at the June Luncheon each member be inspired to bring a guest for their Chapter Meeting in September.

President’s Remarks – Pres. Nora Walker

Nora read her President’s Report. Then she passed out one test for word recognition and another for matching religious terms. She rewarded all members with lovely candles just for participating

A Motion to Adjourn was made at 1:30 by Mary Ellen Mabardy and seconded by Laurice Kurker. Fr. Hughes led us in a prayer.

clip_image004Respectfully Submitted,

Nancy Ghantous, Secretary

2008 Spring Meeting Photos

The spring diocesan meeting was held on Saturday, April 12, 2008. Host parish was St. George Church in Lowell.

01 VioletMaryellenMarilyn 02 HelenDeloresNorma 03 LouisePamViolet 04 NancyCarolNora

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

05 Pawtucket 06 GladysMarilynLaurice

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

07 NancyLindaFrEd 08 Lowell Ladies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

09 Lowel Ladies 10 Lowell Kitchen

2008 Pre-Lenten Retreat photos

DSC01347DSC01348DSC01349 DSC01346

2008 Winter Meeting Minutes

Diocesan Meeting

St. George, West Roxbury

Saturday, February 9, 2008

Antiochian Women

Diocese of Worcester and New England

Opening Prayer – After the meeting was opened at 10:45 a.m. with a prayer led by Fr. Leonard Ferris, we had a moment of silence for Violet Robbat’s mother, Lillian Khouri, “May her memory be eternal”. There were 34 members present. In the absence of President Nora Walker, Vice President Delores F. George conducted the meeting.

Roll Call –

Executive Board Present: Vice President – Delores George, Treasurer – Carol Swydan, Recording Secretary – Nancy Ghantous, Corresponding Secretary – Joan Hanna., Past President - Priscilla Goss

Absent: Advisor – V.Rev. Edward Hughes, President – Nora Walker

Coordinators Present: Public Relations – Pam Samara, Website – Melissa Nassiff , Membership – Margaret Wilhelm, Religious – Kh. Louise Ferguson

Absent : Humanitarian - Kh. Anna Hughes

Executive

Parish Delegates:

St. Mary, Cambridge - 3

St. John, Dedham - 4

St. George, Lawrence – 0

St. George, Lowell - 2

St. George, Norwood - 4

St. George, W. Roxbury - 4

St. George, Worcester - 1

St. Mary, Pawtucket - 4

St. Michael Cotuit - 0

All Saints Mission S. Weymouth - 0

St. Elias Mission Fall River - 0

Secretary’s Report – Nancy GhantousMinutes of the Diocesan meeting at St. George Cathedral, Worcester , on October 13, 2007 were read by Nancy. A motion to accept was made by Salwa Khoury. The motion was carried after being seconded by Joyce Hanna.

Treasurer’s Report – Carol Swydan

Our checking account balance was reported, as well as the total in CD’s

A motion to accept the report was made by Martha Stewart. The motion was passed after being seconded by Katie Birtwell.

Spiritual Advisor’s Remarks – Fr. Edward Hughes

Fr.Edward Hughes was unable to attend the meeting due to a funeral in his parish.

Vice President – Project Report – Delores George

Delores sent letters to the parishes with posters for the Retired Clergy Fund. They are to be hung on the bulletin boards during the women’s month of March to explain the 2007 – 2008 Antiochian Women’s Project for Retired Clergy fund. A second collection should be made for the Project during the Liturgy on one Sunday during the month of March. Carol Swydan suggested that each chapter President should give a sermonette during the Liturgy explaining the purpose of the Project. Carol added that March 30th, the Sunday of the Cross, would be a good day to have the collection for the Project.

Parish Life Conference: Salwa Khoury

Salwa reported the 2008 Annual Parish Life Conference will be held in Providence, RI from June 25th – June 29th. The AOCWNA luncheon will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2008 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. The meeting will follow at 2:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. It will be $25.00 and she will pass out the menu at our next meeting. All of the churches will be receiving the information about the schedule during the week of February 9th. An Award Brunch has been added featuring a keynote speaker, Rev. Fr. Emanuel Chris, who will speak about marriage. She gave out a few of the schedules.

Coordinators and Committee Reports:

Website – Melissa Nassiff http://www.antiochian.org/neraocwna

Melissa reported the AOCWNA website has been totally reconstructed. She encouraged everyone to take a look at the new website. Members can contact her with new information to put on the site by using her e-mail address: mnassiff@rcn.com.

Public Relations – Pam Samara

Pam passed out beautiful copies of the newsletter for our Diocese of Worcester and New England region which should be copied and given to chapter members. She will be sending e-mails to each chapter with a colored copy of the newsletter attached. The presidents of each chapter can send information for their club’s events to her by mail (304 Maple Avenue, Shrewsbury, MA 01545) or e-mail pms@townisp.com .

Religious – Kh. Louise Ferguson

Louise passed out copies of the new newsletter Sophia with a letter from Dianne O’Regan, the N.A.B. Religious Coordinator. It is to be copied and given out to chapter members so it can be read at the monthly meetings. St. George of Norwood will host the annual retreat on March 1, 2008. The speaker will be Deacon Saraphim Solof who will discuss the Orthodox Perspective on Bioethical Issues. She gave out copies of the registration form for members to fill-out and return so she can have an idea how many will be attending. The fee of $15.00 can be sent by check or paid at the door.

Membership – Margaret Wilhelm

Margaret had no report.

Humanitarian – Kh. Anna Hughes

Anna was not present to give her report.

Old Business – V.P. Delores read the Tentative Schedule to remind members of the important dates of the retreat and meetings for the 2008 – 2009 sessions.

New Business – The Mid-Winter meeting for N.A.B. in Pennsylvania was attended by Pam Samara. She has copies of hand outs she has collected at the meeting if anyone would like to see them. Metropolitan Philip reported the Project for Retired Clergy was doing so well this year that it could be finished this year. Carol Swydan added that it was suggested that we continue the Project for Retired Clergy for the full five years. The funds from the Project are being used to support 59 retired priests and 15 widows so far. Metropolitan Philip asked for suggestions for a new project.

Salwa Khoury introduced Carol Wartenberg as a guest speaker. Carol spoke about the “Sanctity of Life Conference” she had attended. It is held in response to the anniversary of Roe versus Wade to make people aware of the serious issues of abortion. According to the Sixth Commandment abortion is murder in the Orthodox religion. Non-denominational anti-abortion members have set up centers called Woman’s Concern Centers to help girls and women, who have crisis pregnancies, make the correct decision. Many couples are waiting to adopt children. Every January there is a “Sacred Gift of Life Sunday”. Father Joseph Purpura said women need to talk and work with teenage girls who may have problems. They can offer help to the youth counselor in their parish.

President’s Remarks – Since President Nora Walker was unable to attend the meeting Vice President Delores read Nora’s written report.

A Motion to Adjourn was made at 11:50 by Martha Stewart and seconded by Gladys Laham.

Respectfully Submitted,

Nancy Ghantous, Secretary

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2008 Winter Meeting Photos

Photos from the 2008 Winter meeting.

Click on each photo to see a larger image.  Use your browser's "back" button to return to this page.

10 FrAntonyFrTim 11 LunchLadies
12 MeetingB 1 FrJoeandFriends
2 Pawtucket 3 HelenPamJoyceMarthaCarol
4 MaryellenMelissaPriscillaSelma 5 MaryellenDeloresMarilyn
6 MarilynLindaDelores 7 MarilynandFriends
8 PriscillaandFriends 9 JoanandNancy

2007 Fall Meeting Minutes

Saturday, October 13, 2007

Antiochian Women

Diocese of Worcester and New England

 

Opening Prayer - The meeting was opened at 10:45 a.m. with the Antiochian Women’s Prayer led by Fr. Edward Hughes and the singing of the Troparian of the Dormition. There were 29 members present.

Roll Call –

Executive Board Present : Advisor – V.Rev. Edward Hughes, President – Nora Walker, Vice President – Delores George, Treasurer – Carol Swydan, Recording Secretary – Nancy Ghantous, Corresponding Secretary – Joan Hanna.

Absent: Past President - Priscilla Goss

Coordinators: Public Relations – Pam Samara, Website – Melissa Nassiff , Humanitarian – Kh. Anna Hughes,

Membership – Margaret Wilhelm, Religious – Kh. Louise Ferguson

Executive

Parish Delegates:

St. Mary, Cambridge - 1

St. John, Dedham - 3

St. George, Lawrence – 2

St. George, Lowell - 3

St. George, Norwood - 1

St. George, W. Roxbury - 2

St. George, Worcester - 4

St. Mary, Pawtucket - 2

St. Michael Cotuit - 0

All Saints Mission S. Weymouth - 0

St. Elias Mission Fall River - 0

Secretary’s Report – Nancy Ghantous

Minutes of the Diocesan meeting at the Parish Life Conference in Plymouth, MA on June 28 were read. A motion to accept was made by Joan Hanna and seconded by Lillian Khoury.

Treasurer’s Report – Carol Swydan

The balance in our checking account and CD's was reported.

A motion to accept the report was made by Katie Birtwell and seconded by Joan Hanna.

Spiritual Advisor’s Remarks – Fr. Edward Hughes

Fr. Ed spoke of the importance of mothers and grandmothers in teaching their children and grandchildren about the Antiochian Orthodox faith. Parents and grandparents should tell their children and grandchildren what to do. Children absorb their ideas and values when they are infants at home. Mothers have a duty to keep Christian homes. He gave examples of St. Sofia, St. Thekla, St. Barbara and St. Kathryn, who were brave single minded women who knew what was right and with the power of God were able to guide their families and sacrifice their lives for their faith. President Nora thanked Father for his message.

Vice President – Project Report – Delores George

Delores read a letter from the new President of N.A.B., Cindy Nimey, in which she thanked everyone for their work to raise funds for the Retired Clergy fund, which as of July 2007 totals $404,058.00. Delores then read a report of the N.A.B. July 2007 Conference in Montreal written by former President Priscilla Goss.

Coordinators and Committee Reports:

Website – Melissa Nassiff http://www.antiochian.org/neraocwna

Melissa reported the AOCWNA website has been totally revised. She will be updating our information when the site has been reconstructed. Members can contact her with new information to put on the site by using her e-mail address, which was provided.

Public Relations – Pam Samara

Pam passed out copies of the Fall 2007 DIAKONIA, which is published three times a year. Each chapter president should copy them and pass out to their members. She is publishing a newsletter for our Diocese of Worcester and New England region which should be copied and given to chapter members. The presidents of each chapter can send information for their club’s events to her by mail or e-mail.

Religious – Kh. Louise Ferguson

Louise read a letter from the new N.A.B. religious coordinator, Diane O’Regan. Louise will be publishing a monthly newsletter called “Sofia” in which a Saint will be highlighted. It is to be copied and given out to chapter members. St. George of Norwood will host the annual on March 1, 2008. The speaker will be Deacon Saraphim Solof who will discuss the Orthodox Perspective on Bioethical Issues.

Membership – Margaret Wilhelm

Nora read a letter from Jaimey Issac the new N.A.B. membership coordinator. Margaret will make copies of the N.A.B. correspondence and send to each chapter.

Humanitarian – Kh. Anna Hughes

Anna was attending another meeting at the time and could not give her report.

Old Business –President Nora Walker explained the annual 10% tithing donation given to a charity that is chosen by the members. It is 10% of the amount in the region’s checking account. She described the purposes of the I.O.C.C. (International Orthodox Christian Charity), the Al Kafaat (a rehabilitation program for special needs children in Lebanon) and the O.C.F. (Orthodox Christian Fellowship). A motion was made by Salwa Khoury to send our 10% tithing to O.C.F. specifying that it is to be used for traveling. It was seconded by Carol Swydan. Salwa then amended the motion to read that we give 10% tithing to the O.C.F. (Orthodox Christian Fellowship) without specifying what it is to be used for. A motion was then made to round up the amount from $403.13 to $405.00. A vote was taken with 13 members approved and 3 opposed.

New Business – Salwa Khoury announced the Parish Life Conference for 2008 will be hosted by St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church of Pawtucket, R.I. on June 26th through June 29th 2008. It will be held at the Marriott Hotel, Providence, Rhode Island. Marilyn Robbat questioned the schedule of the Ladies’ luncheon on Thursday. Carol Swydan said this year’s schedule was made so members could be free to attend plans on Friday.

President Nora Walker passed out a CD entitled “A Guide to Making Holy bread’ for each chapter to show at their meetings. A religious quiz was passed out to be brought back to the next meeting. Marilyn suggested inviting women from other Orthodox churches to local chapter meetings to see what we do as AOCWNA members. Nora read the schedule of our meetings for the 2007-2009 sessions. She passed out a list entitled “Antiochian Women Purposes and Pitfalls” which also explains the structure of the Antiochian Archdiocese.

Carol Swydan reported the collection for the luncheon was $215.00.

President’s Remarks – President Nora Walker presented an essay entitled “Bishop’s Crusade Toward Orthodox Unity”. It asks the questions of “How can we form a Pan-Orthodox union including all Orthodox ethnic groups? How do we identify ourselves as Orthodox Christians? What strategies can we use to attract the younger generation to participate in church services?”

A Motion to Adjourn was made at 1:50 by Laurie Kurker and seconded by Linda Bowab. Fr. Ed led us in a prayer.

Respectfully Submitted,

Nancy Ghantous, Secretary

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2007 Fall Meeting Photos

 

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2007 June (Parish Life) Minutes

Diocesan Meeting
Parish Life Conference Plymouth, MA
Thursday, June 28, 2007
OPENING PRAYER -
The meeting was opened at 2:45 PM
with the Antiochian Women’s Prayer led by Fr. Edward Hughes and singing
of the Troparian of the Dormition led by Marilyn Robbat. There were 29
members present.
ROLL CALL–
Executive Board Present:
Advisor - V. Rev. Edward Hughes, President - Priscilla Goss, Vice President - Marilyn Kurban, Treasurer - Carol Swydan, Secretary
- Pam Samara, Past President - MaryEllen Mabardy, Coordinators:
Cultural - Nora Walker, Website - Melissa Nassif, Humanitarian - Gladys
Laham, Membership - Marilyn Robbat, Religious - Kh. Louise Ferguson
Parish Delegates:
St. Mary Cambridge – 1 St. George Norwood – 1 St. Michael Cotuit– 0
St. John Dedham – 4 St. George W Roxbury - 4 All Saints Mission S Weymouth – 1
St. George Lawrence – 0 St. George Worcester - 4 St. Elias Mission Fall River - 0
St. George Lowell – 0 St. Mary Pawtucket – 4
SECRETARY’S REPORT- Pam Samara
Minutes of the meeting at St. Mary Pawtucket on April 28 were read. A motion to accept was made by Salwa Khoury and seconded by Marilyn Robbat.
TREASURER’S REPORT – Carol Swydan

Our checking account balance was reported, as well as the totals of our
CD’s. A motion to accept the report was made by Violet Robbat and
seconded by Joyce Hanna.
VICE PRESIDENT - PROJECT – Marilyn Kurban
Marilyn
thanked all who have supported the Retired Clergy Fund, and gave an
itemized listing of all the donations from each parish. Our total this
year is $13,662.13. A motion to accept the report was made by Gladys
Laham and seconded by Joyce Hanna.
SPIRITUAL ADVISOR’S REPORT– Fr. Edward Hughes
Fr.
Ed has been the Women’s Advisor for more than 15 years, and he thanked
us for all our work during that time. He spoke of the need for a
complete slate of officers for next year, and encouraged all to become
part of the executive board. ‘All ladies are born leaders’, and we
should all participate at some time, in the running of our
organization. After some gentle encouragement, we had volunteers for
each office.
ELECTIONS - Past President MaryEllen Mabardy
The slate of officers for 2007-08 was announced, and voted on:
President – Nora Walker (St Mary Pawtucket) Treasurer–Carol Swydan (St George Worcester)
Vice President – Delores George (St George Worcester) Secretary–Nancy Ghantous(St GeorgeWRoxbury)

Public Relations – Pamela Samara (St George Worcester)

COORDINATORS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS:
CULTURAL COORDINATOR– Nora Walker
Continuing
her series on religions, Nora reported on the similarities and
differences between Christianity, Judaism and Islam. She also gave us a
chart titled “Religions of the Middle East”, comparing various aspects
of these religions, including place of worship, leadership, writings,
feasts, fasts, symbols, etc.
RELIGIOUS COORDINATOR – Kh. Louise Ferguson
The
PreLenten Retreat was held on February 10 and had 45 participants. Fr
Eugene Pentiuc was the speaker. Thanks to the Women of St. George
Norwood, for their hospitality and delicious lunch. Ideas for future
Retreat speakers and topics may be sent to Kh. Louise.
HUMANITARIAN COORDINATOR – Gladys Laham
Thanks to all who supported the project this year – toys, books, etc to the Childrens’Hospital in Boston.
MEMBERSHIP– Marilyn Robbat
Continuing with her efforts to raise awareness of women's health issues, Marilyn gave us a handout on “Depression in Older Adults.”
WEBSITE – Melissa Nassiff http://www.antiochian.org/neraocwna
Updates
to our website were described in Melissa’s report. She invites
comments and suggestions to make the site more inviting, informative
and useful.
CHAPTER REPORTS
Reports were given from each Chapter President on the past years’ activities, programs, membership.
ARCHDIOCESE CONFERENCE

The Conference will be July 23-29 in Montreal, Canada, hosted by St.
Nicholas Church. Delegates will be Priscilla Goss, Kh. Louise Ferguson,
Kh. Margaret Wilhelm, Kh. Erin Kimmet, Gladys Laham, and Salwa Khoury.
Also from our Diocese will be our NAB Officers, Violet Robbat and
Marilyn Robbat.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Priscilla Goss
Priscilla
gave sincere thanks to all the women of the Diocese and to Father Ed,
for support and friendship during her tenure as President. We in turn
thank Priscilla for her leadership, friendship, and all the work that
went into keeping our group so strong.
A MOTION TO ADJOURN was made at 3:20 by MaryEllen Mabardy and seconded by Marilyn Kurban.
Fr. Ed led us in a prayer, and then we all enjoyed the rest of the weekend’s Conference activities.
Respectfully Submitted, NEXT MEETING: TBA Fall 2007
Pam Samara, Secretary

2007 June (Parish Life) Photos

Here are a few of the photos taken at the Summer 2007 meeting during the Parish Life Conference in June. This page is temporary, until the new and improved website if fully functional.

Photos...

2007 Pre-Lenten Retreat Photos

Photos from the 2007 Pre-Lenten Retreat, hosted by St. George, Norwood, and led by Fr. Eugen Pentiuc

Click on each photo to see a larger image.  Use your browser's "back" button to return to this page.

          

             

     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2007 Winter Meeting Minutes

 
 
Diocesan Meeting
St. John of Damascus Church, Dedham
Saturday, January 20, 2007
 
OPENING PRAYER -
The meeting was opened at 10:46 with the Antiochian Women’s Prayer and the singing of the Troparian of the Dormition. There were 32 members present.
 
ROLL CALL–
Executive Board Present:
Advisor-V. Rev. Edward Hughes, President-Priscilla Goss, Vice President-Marilyn Kurban, Secretary-Pam Samara, Coordinators: Membership-Marilyn Robbat, Humanitarian-Gladys Laham, Religious-Kh. Louise Ferguson 
Executive Board Absent:
Treasurer-Carol Swydan, Past President-MaryEllen Mabardy, Website Coordinator-Melissa Nassiff,
Cultural Coordinator-Nora Walker
Parish Delegates:
            St. Mary Cambridge – 2                       St. George Norwood – 2                      St. Michael Cotuit– 2
St. John Dedham – 4                            St. George W Roxbury – 3                  All Saints Mission S Weymouth – 0
                St. George Lawrence – 1                     St. George Worcester - 2                      St. Elias Mission Fall River - 0              
                St. George Lowell – 3                           St. Mary Pawtucket – 0
 
SECRETARY’S REPORT- Pam Samara    
            Minutes of the meeting at St. George Lawrence on September 30 were read. Motion to accept was made by Marilyn Kurban and seconded by Laurice Kurker.
 
TREASURER’S REPORT – Carol Swydan
            After a short discussion, a motion to accept the report was made by Gladys Laham and seconded by Laurence Skaff.              
 
SPIRITUAL ADVISOR’S REPORT– Fr Edward Hughes
            Fr Ed spoke about the Church Calendar and Church Feasts and the effect that Feasts have on our lives. Secular society changes how people keep religion in their daily schedules. Church ‘seasons’ must be noted at home, so that they will be able to affect our lives. 
 
COORDINATORS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS:
 
VICE PRESIDENT - PROJECT – Marilyn Kurban
Retired Clergy Fund: Marilyn reminded us to take a special basket collection during March ‘Antiochian Women’s Month’.   All funds must be sent to the Treasurer by May 1st, and a letter sent to Marilyn stating what the main project was, and how much was collected from that and from the basket.  During the month of March, our women should be participating in the Liturgy by reading the Epistle, collecting, ushering and giving sermons.
Her report was accepted   by Laurice Kurker and seconded by Lillian Khouri.
 
RELIGIOUS COORDINATOR – Kh. Louise Ferguson
Our Retreat will be held on February 10, at  St. George Church, Norwood. The day will begin with Liturgy at 9AM. Flyers have been distributed. Registration is $15, and will include lunch. Fr Eugene Pentiuc, a Professor of Old Testament at Hellenic College, will speak on “Human Destiny According to the Holy Scripture”.
 
HUMANITARIAN COORDINATOR – Gladys Laham
            Some Beanie Babies were already taken to Children’s Hospital. Priscilla and Jim will be delivering the remaining donated items, along with a $100 check from St. George Lowell Women. Thanks to all who donated items for this collection.
 
MEMBERSHIP– Marilyn Robbat
            Continuing with her effort to raise awareness of women's health issues,  Marilyn gave us a sheet on Arthritis, and Tips on Living with Arthritis.   She is also going to look into a Spring Trip.
 
CULTURAL COORDINATOR– Nora Walker
            Continuing her series on religions, Nora reported on Judaism and the Old Testament in an attempt to show how religions in the Middle East influence the culture of the people who come from that region. By exploring the basis of the Jewish religion, we realize that the Jewish people and the Arabs of the Middle East have lived side by side over the many centuries, and that the Jewish culture and the Arab culture have many similarities and origins.
 
WEBSITE – Melissa Nassiff   http://www.antiochian.org/neraocwna  
                Improvements and updates to our website were described in Melissa’s report.   She invites comments and suggestions to make the site more inviting, informative and useful.
           
 
PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Priscilla Goss
·         Mid-Winter Meeting at Antiochian Village is Febuary 2-4. Anyone interested in attending, please see Priscilla
·         Thank you note was received from the family of Louise Joseph Jabily.
·         Parish Life Conference will be June 28 - July 1 at the Plymouth Radisson. Rooms will be $119. The Luncheon will be on Thursday at noon, followed by our meeting from 2:30 – 4:30. More details at the April meeting.
·         Officers for 2007-2009 will be elected in June. Nomination forms are available from Priscilla.
 
NEW BUSINESS –
·         Sunday of Orthodoxy Liturgy in Worcester will be led by Bishop JOSEPH
·         Extra copies of “Sacred Meals”  by Fr. John Finley are available. 
·         Fr. Michael Abdelahad and Michael Marge spoke to us about the Parish Life Conference.   Fr. Michael Kaiser will be the keynote speaker. He is a former NAB Antiochian Women Spiritual Advisor. Several new ideas and programs are being incorporated into this year’s PLC, with all the Diocese churches on the planning committees, and the proceeds benefiting the Missions and Outreach of the Diocese of Worcester and New England.
 
A MOTION TO ADJOURN   was made at 12:05. 
Fr. Ed led us in a prayer, and then we all enjoyed a delicious Fellowship Luncheon.
                                                                                                                         
 
Respectfully Submitted,             NEXT MEETING April 28 St Mary Church,   Pawtucket, RI 
Pam Samara, Secretary                          
 
 
 
 

2006 Fall Meeting Minutes

 
 
Diocesan Meeting
St George Church, Lawrence
Saturday, September 30, 2006
 
 
OPENING PRAYER –
The meeting was opened with the Antiochian Women’s Prayer. There were 23 members present.
 
ROLL CALL –
Executive Board Present:
President- Priscilla Goss, Vice President- Marilyn Kurban, Treasurer- Carol Swydan, Secretary- Pam Samara, Coordinators: Membership- Marilyn Robbat, Humanitarian- Gladys Laham, Cultural- Nora Walker, Religious- Kh. Louise Ferguson 
 
Executive Board Absent:
Past President- MaryEllen Mabardy, Website Coordinator- Melissa Nassiff
 
Parishes:
            St. Mary Cambridge – 1              St. George Norwood – 0             St. Michael Cape Cod – 0
St. John Dedham – 1                  St. George WRoxbury – 1           All Saints Mission SWeymouth – 1
                St. George Lawrence – 4            St. George Worcester - 1            St. Elias Mission Fall River - 0   
                St. George Lowell – 3                St. Mary Pawtucket – 3
 
 
SECRETARY’S REPORT- Pam Samara          
Minutes of the meeting at the Parish Life Conference on June 23 were read. Motion to accept was made by Marilyn Kurban and seconded by Phyllis Arsenault.
 
TREASURER’S REPORT – Carol Swydan
Carol presented the Treasurer's report. After a short discussion, a motion to accept the report was made by Laurence Skaff and seconded by Sophie Hallal.              
 
 
COORDINATORS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS:
 
VICE PRESIDENT - PROJECT – Marilyn Kurban
Our Diocese total collected this year for the Retired Clergy Fund was $14,508.25. The total collected by NAB was $141,093.65. Grand Total for the past 2 years is $256,093.65. The report was accepted by Louise Homsy and seconded by Gladys Laham.
 
CULTURAL COORDINATOR– Nora Walker
“Tracing Our Ancestors” gave us significant names from the Old Testament who have influenced our heritage and culture. Nora shared many interesting stories about those in the Old Testament and did a "Family Tree" handout, which helped us understand the lineage. 
 
HUMANITARIAN COORDINATOR – Gladys Laham
A large collection of Beanie Babies were given to Selma Winstanley (St. Mary, Cambridge) by a co-worker, Ruth Lewis, who works in the Comptroller's Div. Town of Arlington.  This collection will be used as a donation to the Children’s Hospital along with items to be collected by all our member parishes. A list of suitable items will be sent by Gladys to all churches. Items will be collected at the January meeting.
 
RELIGIOUS COORDINATOR – Kh. Louise Ferguson
Our Retreat will be held on February 3, with a snow date of February 10, at St George Church, Norwood. Registration will be $15, and will include lunch. Child Care may be offered, and the speaker will be Fr Eugene Pentiuc, a Professor of Old Testament at Hellenic College.
 
PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE – Elizabeth Votruba, Conference Chairperson
We were presented a check for $2291, from the 2006 Conference, along with copies of the final report.  Among her recommendations for the 2007 Conference were that the combined Friday luncheon go back to an Antiochian Woman Luncheon. The 2007 committee will decide.
 
MEMBERSHIP– Marilyn Robbat
In an effort to raise awareness of women's health issues,  Marilyn gave us a sheet stating September is “National Cholesterol Education Month”, with steps to reduce our cholesterol levels. 
 
We also were given note pads with the Antiochian Women name and Logo.
 
WEBSITE – Melissa Nassiff   http://www.antiochian.org/neraocwna  
Improvements and updates to our website were described in Melissa’s report.
 
PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Priscilla Goss
From the Mid-Summer Meeting:
 
NAB Project Total $141,093.65 with a goal of $500,000 in 3 more years
 
Comments from Metropolitan Philip about the tragedy in Lebanon, and thanks for a $1000 donation. 
 
NAB Constitution Change Vote was ‘Yes’ to officers serving 2 years, plus 2 more if they want to run and are elected again. Local chapters do not have to change their constitutions to reflect this vote.
 
Chapter and Diocesan Treasurers must keep accurate records in case of an audit.
 
We should promote ourselves, and what we do. A DVD will be given to each chapter.
 
2007 Archdiocese Conference will be at Le Centre Sheraton Montreal Hotel. Passports will soon be needed to enter Canada, but not until after the Conference.
 
 
OLD BUSINESS –
A Public Relations coordinator is needed for one year. Anyone interested, please contact Priscilla.
 
“The Antiochian Orthodox Way” by Nora Walker was reprinted and given to all chapters.   Several books were given at the Clergy Symposium at Antiochian Village in July.
 
Our Spiritual Advisor, Officers, and Coordinators were highlighted in the September issue of "Diakonia".
 
 
NEW BUSINESS–
Tithing – suggestions for this years’ recipient were made, then a motion was made by Marilyn Robbat that “The Diocesan 10% tithe will be sent to the Archdiocese to be earmarked for the Lebanon Relief Fund.” It was seconded by Gladys Laham, and passed unanimously.
 
The book “Sacred Meals” by Fr. John Finley is available for $9.48 to AW groups, to be sold for $18.95. Priscilla will order a case and each chapter may sell 2 or more and send funds to the Diocesan Treasurer.   http://www.sacredmeals.com
 
Updated Listing of Officers and Coordinators was handed out.
 
Conference 2007 will be at the Plymouth Radisson June 28-July 1
 
Conference 2008 will be at the Providence Marriot, hosted by St Mary Pawtucket, with Salwa Khoury, Chairperson
 
A MOTION TO ADJOURN   was made at 12:20.  Fr. Ed led us in a prayer, and then we all enjoyed a delicious Fellowship Luncheon.
 
Respectfully Submitted,  
 
Pam Samara,
Secretary
 
 
NEXT MEETING: January 20, 2007 St John Church Dedham        
 
 

2006 Fall meeting photos

Photos from the September 2006 Diocesan meeting

Click on each photo to see a larger image.

            

         

                                           

    

   

2006 June (Parish Life) Minutes

Regional Meeting

Parish Life Conference

Laconia, New Hampshire

Friday, June 23, 2006

OPENING PRAYER -

The meeting was opened at  10:46 with the Antiochian Women’s Prayer led by Fr. Ed Hughes, and Marilyn Robbat leading  us in the Troparion of the Dormition. 

ROLL CALL –

Executive Board Present :

President- Priscilla Goss, VicePresident- Marilyn Kurban, Treasurer- Carol Swydan, Secretary- Pam Samara, Coordinators: Membership- Marilyn Robbat,  Humanitarian- Gladys Laham,  Cultural- Nora Walker,  Religious- Kh. Louise Ferguson 

Executive Board Absent:

Website Coordinator Melissa Nassiff

Parishes:

St. Mary Cambridge – 2   St. George  Norwood – 1   St. Michael  Cape Cod – 0

St. John  Dedham – 1      St. George  Boston–  4       All Saints Mission  S Weymouth – 1

St. George  Lawrence – 1   St. George  Worcester -3      St. Elias Mission Fall River - 0 

St. George  Lowell – 0       St. Mary  Pawtucket – 3



SECRETARY’S REPORT - Pam Samara 

Minutes of the meeting on April 8 at St. George Worcester were read and with one correction, were accepted  by Dolores Elias and seconded by Joyce Hanna.  Minutes will now be available by email to anyone who requests them.  Print copies will still be given at the meetings.

TREASURER’S REPORT – Carol Swydan

Our bank balance is $5917.20.  Investments are two CD’s with a total of $3091.51.  After a short discussion, a motion to accept the report was made by Cindy Hayes and seconded by Norma Samra.              



COORDINATORS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS:

VICE PRESIDENT  - PROJECT – Marilyn Kurban

Our total collected this year for the Retired Clergy Fund was $14,508.25.

 

CULTURAL COORDINATOR – Nora Walker

Nora presented a summary of this year’s reports on Orthodoxy.  She also showed a booklet she wrote on Antiochian Orthodoxy. The booklet had some mistakes, so will be reprinted and will be available later.  It is costing $375 to print the booklets, and after a discussion, a motion was made by Chris Bezreh, and seconded by Valerie Irving: “We will compensate the Cultural Coordinator $375 for printing the book ‘The Antiochian Orthodox Way’”.   The motion passed unanimously.

HUMANITARIAN COORDINATOR – Gladys Laham

Gladys thanked all of us for the donation of over 20 cartons of gifts to the Jimmy Fund.

RELIGIOUS COORDINATOR – Kh. Louise Ferguson

Kh. Louise has taken over this position, and thanks go to Natasha Smith for coordinating this past year’s retreat.

MEMBERSHIP – Marilyn Robbat

Marilyn gave us “A New Look at Martha and Mary.” She handed out a Membership Handbook, to be given to each Club President.   This book was started at the request of Margaret Wilhem for All Saints Mission, and was written with the help of Marilyn Robbat, Joyce Hanna, Priscilla Goss, Violet Robbat and Joanne Bitar, NAB Membership Chairperson.

SPRIRITUAL ADVISOR’S MESSAGE – V. Rev. Fr. Edward Hughes

In place of Fr. Ed’s message, we were visited by Bishop ALEXANDER who spoke to us about the importance of the women in the church. He also talked about “The DaVinci Code”, how to bring younger women into the Antiochian Women, how to keep children excited abut church with all the negatives they face in society, and reminded us to keep doing religious and humanitarian projects along with our social and fundraising programs.

 

WEBSITE – Melissa Nassiff   http://www.antiochian.org/neraocwna   

Our new Coordinator is Melissa Nassiff from St. Mary Cambridge.  Her handout was on updated information about our website.

PUBLIC RELATIONS –

A coordinator is needed for one year.  Anyone interested, please contact Priscilla.



OLD BUSINESS –

Mid-Summer Meeting:  July 21-23  Six delegates are needed.  Priscilla Goss, Marilyn Robbat, Violet Robbat, and Joyce Hanna  will be attending.  Anyone else wishing to go, please contact Priscilla.

Diakonia:  Priscilla reminded us that officers, coordinators, and our Spiritual Advisor need to submit a photograph and short biograhy, for the September Diakonia.



NEW BUSINESS –

Thanks:  We received a  thank you note from the Jimmy Fund for our donations.  We also got a thank you card from the family of Olga Taksery.

 

CD:  Our CD’s are due in July.  The first one is for our child, and cannot be changed, but more cash can be added to the second one.  A motion was made by Joyce Hanna, seconded by Valerie Irving:  “We will increase the $2000 CD to $3000.”    Unanimously passed.       

Festival:  All Saints Mission in S.Weymouth is sponsoring a Summer Festival on July 22. This will include a Bake Sale, BBQ, Yard Sale, Children’s Activities and Can/Bottle  Drive. All are welcome.

 

Meetings:  Our next meeting is September 30 in Lawrence.  January 20 we will meet at St. John’s Dedham.  April Meeting TBA.  



A MOTION TO ADJOURN  was made at 12:16 .  Fr. Ed led us in a prayer, and then we all enjoyed a delicious Fellowship Luncheon.



Respectfully Submitted,



Pam Samara

Secretary

2006 Parish Life Photos

Photos from the Antiochian Women's meeting during the 2006 Parish Life Conference.  Click on each photo to see a larger image.

 

 

 

2006 Pre-Lenten Retreat photos

Photos from the 2006 Pre-Lenten Retreat.  Click on each photo to see a larger image.

 

 

 

2005 Parish Life Photos

2005 Parish Life Conference Meeting

Photos from the 2005 Parish Life Conference

Click each photo to view a larger image.


 

 

 

 

 

2005 Pre-Lenten Retreat Photos

 

  2005 Pre-Lenten Retreat

Photos from the 2005 Pre-Lenten Retreat.  Click on each photo to see a larger image.