As the year draws to an end, I look back at all the happenings of our church family. We truly have been a busy community. We are blessed and fortunate to be able to have our beautiful complex so that our families may be able to partake of what our faith, culture, and traditions have to offer. From youth programs to senior programs and everything in between, our church is in use every day, and that is wonderful, because your stewardship of time, talents and donations is what makes it possible. Thank you!

As many people enter our complex for The Greek Festival and Souvlaki Fest, as well as others attending weddings and parties during the hall rentals. This has left an impact. This becomes an enormous amount of wear and tear on our complex. And just like our homes, maintenance has to be done all the time, but there is never enough money to make it happen. That is why this Christmas we are asking you to put St. Sophia on your Christmas List, or hang up a stocking and grant us a wish.

You will find a WISH LIST, in this issue of The Testament, with a list of things that have to be done around the complex and the things that are worn and faded that have to be replaced. Wish list items are those that would really make a difference, but that are not budgeted. You might be able to offer your services, help out with a portion of an item, or provide it to us at cost. Either way your Christmas Gift will be treasured.

Outreach is a major part of our community. Therefore, we give of our time and money to minister to people that need help within our community, and within the Capital Region Area. In addition to the Parish Council and our Youth Groups, which do various outreach projects, this year the Ladies of Philoptochos and the Daughters of Penelope have heard the cry of our homeless and needy veterans who desperately need assistance. They have adopted several veteran families and as well as single veterans for their holiday giving. They are collecting sheets, towels, toiletries, warm clothing, and non-perishable foods. If you would like to contribute to this worthy cause, contact Helen Fallon at 356-4239.

The month of October has been a sad one. Seven parishioners went to be with their Lord. May their memory be eternal in the hearts of their loved ones. St. Sophia is extremely grateful to all the families who generously donated money to our church in memory of their loved ones. Your loved ones will always be in our prayers, and will be greatly missed.

The 2010 Stewardship Campaign is underway. Thank you to all parishioners that attended the Stewardship Sunday Breakfast, and completed their pledge card for 2010. Every year parishioners are encouraged to prayerfully consider their pledge, and to see it as an expression of one's faith and commitment to Christ. A stewardship pledge is not just a financial commitment but part of one's spiritual life, which is lived in terms of service and utilizing one's talents in the Church. Each of us through our participation in the ministries and programs of our church have the opportunity and privilege to return to God a small portion of time, talent and treasures with which He has so generously blessed us. Having Volunteers, who show their love in action, to help in the many programs and events of our Parish life, means that the needs of the adults and children, as well as our community as a whole, will be better met. Often it is difficult to know what one is missing until someone provides that which is lacking. Do not neglect to do good and share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews (13:16).

Our Sunday school classes have been busy throughout the fall. We have a great group of students. The teachers have complimented your children by the level of respect they show in the classroom each week. That being said, we do have one area which all of our families need improvement. It is imperative that we are ready to worship by 9:30 each Sunday morning, and be an example for them.

I want to take the time to thank the Parish Council members that will be stepping down to pursue other areas of interest in their lives. Harry Ermides, will be enjoying his grandson and new twin granddaughters. Bessie Malamas will be traveling with her husband while enjoying their retirement. Amy Spellos will be taking more time to get stronger and healthier, and spend more time with her grandchildren. Peter Pappas will be looking forward to more leisure time with the grandchildren. Chrysanthy Diamantopoulos is pursuing a new career and new challenges. You all have been a valuable asset to our church. Your expertise and support will be missed. Thank you for all your help and encouragement. The remaining parish council members anxiously await the new elected members. We have much to do and extra help, expertise and encouragement is always welcomed.