In Matthew Chapter 12, Jesus says: “When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. Then he says, “I will return to my house from which I came,” And when he comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order. Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. So shall it also be with this wicked generation.”

Stated in the Orthodox Study Bible: The heart in Scripture refers to the center of consciousness, the seat of the intellect and the will, and the place from which spiritual life proceeds. When God’s grace permeates the heart, it masters the body and guides all actions and thoughts. On the other hand, when malice and evil capture the heart, a person becomes full of darkness and spiritual confusion. When the devil is gone out, he is uneasy, for he sleeps not except if he has done mischief, he walks in dry places, like one that is very melancholy; he seeks rest but finds none, till he returns again. Thus, we guard our hearts. Unless there is full repentance and the Holy Spirit dwells in a person, an expelled demon will return with others and reoccupy its abode.

If we had decided to better our lives this year, let this be a warning to everyone of letting fall a good work of reforming their lives and returning to that wickedness which they seemed to have forsaken; for the last state of such will be worse than the first.

Happy Birthday to all those celebrating their birthday in February. Stacey Baron Anderson on February 2; Christopher Kary, February 10; Alissa Pecoraro Paduani, February 11, Chris Finno on February 14, and Evgenia Kozienko Jimenez on February 26. We wish all of you a very Happy Birthday and may God grant you all Many Years!

Many thanks from our Food Pantry Coordinator, Helen Baron, to all who helped our Food Pantry by your donations of food and funds during the Nativity season. Your help was deeply appreciated by all those who are in need. However, the need continues throughout the year and especially now in the cold season. Thank you.

Plans for our Annual Parish Meeting are set for Sunday, February 16, 2025, following the Divine Liturgy and coffee hour. Please plan to attend this important meeting in the life of our parish. A light lunch will be available.