Although we hear the Epistle and Gospel readings whenever we are at church, there are some readings that we know only by our own reading of the Bible. The following passage is from St. Paul’s first letter to the Romans where he describes the world’s need of redemption. He then later discusses God’s saving act in Christ and the new life which it has made available. (Romans 5:1-8)

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel: it is the power of God for salvation to every one who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith for faith; as it is written, "He who through faith is righteous shall live." For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and wickedness of men who by their wickedness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them.

Ever since the creation of the world His invisible nature, namely, His eternal power and deity, has been clearly perceived in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse; for although they knew God they did not honor Him as God or give thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and their senseless minds were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man or birds or animals or reptiles.

Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen.

Please remember to bring fruit to be blessed on the Transfiguration of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Sunday August 6 and flowers and herbs to be blessed on the Dormition of our Beloved Theotokos on Tuesday, August 15.

Happy Birthday to all those celebrating their birthday in August: Nicholas Bzik, August 2; Gregory Kary on August 12; Patricia Galley, August 14; and Marilyn Stagen, August 15; Samuel Czech, on August 17; Peter Czech, August 22; and Andrea Shaker on August 26. Happy Birthday to all who are celebrating their birthday in August, and also to Archbishop Michael on Aug. 28 and may God grant all of you Many Years!

Remember our needy neighbors. The Food Pantry is always in need of food items. Please keep those less fortunate in mind and help us to feed those in need. A basket is in the vestibule of the church for your convenience. Helen Baron, our food basket coordinator, thanks you and may God bless you abundantly for your generosity.