News
Archdiocesan & Chicago Metropolis News
Contact Us
Events at St. Mary’s… and beyond!
Check the monthly Messenger, weekly Church Bulletin, and Church calendar for all upcoming events.
Choir/Chant Conference
St. Athansios, Aurora IL, Oct 9-11, 2026
Philoptochos Sunday, November 1, 2026
The Greek Orthodox Church in America is truly unthinkable without the Philoptochos. Every Parish is supported, nourished, and enriched by its Ladies Philoptochos Society. They are, for all of us, a sisterhood of Martha and Mary, dedicated servants of the Church and the wider community, and living icons of reflection on the teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ.
They are called “Friends of the Poor” for a reason. The charitable and eleemosynary deeds of the Philoptochos sustain all manner of life in our communities, both near and far. They provide us all an opportunity to do well in our lives by doing good. We should generously support their philanthropy in every way possible.
In setting aside this particular Sunday, we are recognising the compassion and generosity that Philoptochos provides every day in the life of the Church. We thank them for their labors of love for all people, and for the example, they set in our Parishes from coast to coast. May they all hear the words of the Lord as were voiced by the Samaritan we call “Good”: “Ἐγὼ ἐν τῷ ἐπανέρχεσθαί Με ἀποδώσω σοι. When I come again, I will repay you.” (Luke 10:35).
Archbishop Elpidohporos of America, Nov 2020
Theme: What Is a Pilgrimage?
Wednesday, Nov 4, 2026, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Join us for an evening of prayer, fellowship, a shared meal, and education for the whole family! Each Synaxis gathering will begin with a short prayer service, followed by dinner together (provided by St. Mary’s), and conclude with an educational session for adults and families. This year’s theme is Pilgrimage, as we explore what it means to journey toward holy places and how pilgrimage can deepen our life in Christ. Presented by Fr. Tim . Come spend an evening together as a parish family as we begin this year’s journey. All are welcome!
The 22nd Twin Cities Pan-Orthodox Women’s Tea
Saturday, November 7, 2026, 2:30-4:30 PM
St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church
Come together for fellowship and share ideas toward our common goals to learn from each other, share ideas from our parishes to be Christ-like.
- Short presentation on the Serbian Orthodox Church
- Please bring an appetizer or dessert to share!
- St. Sava Church and hall are not handicap accessible. Access by stairs only.
- Questions? Text Nada Spasojevic at 952-201-2594
Stewardship/Ministry Fair Sunday
Sunday November 8, 2026
Great Hall following Liturgy
From Choir/Chant to Altar Servers, Philoptochos to Bible and Book Studies, Youth to Seniors, there’s something for everyone!
- Survey the myriad of Active Groups at St. Marys.
- Find a group that you’d like to learn about.
- Talk with a representative.
- JOIN A GROUP!
Seeker Sunday
Sunday, November 8, 2026 • 11:45 AM • Fireside Room
For those seeking to become Orthodox Christians, we are here to guide you. Join us on the second Sunday of each month at 11:45 AM in the Fireside Room. Following the Divine Liturgy, we’ll gather for a discussion and Q&A led by clergy.
- If you have questions or have specific topics you would like to discuss, please visit the Welcome Table after liturgy on Sundays or email: welcome@stmarysgoc.org
Saturday, November 14, 2026
6:00-10:00 PM, St. Mary’s Great Hall
Enjoy an evening with dinner, dancing, and great company in appreciation of your pledged gifts of Time, Talent, and Treasure to Saint Mary’s. This year we welcome our honored guest, His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael. RSVP here by Nov 7.
VOLUNTEER TO HELP
We are looking for help with a variety of projects throughout the day, from set up in the morning through dishwashing at night. We have something for everyone! Contact the church office at 612.825.9595 or email david@stmarysgoc.org
Celebrate IOCC Sunday
November 22, 2026
Each year, the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America sets aside the Sunday before Thanksgiving to highlight humanitarian relief. Through IOCC’s ministry, Orthodox faithful across the US are serving people in need.
This is your chance to share IOCC’s work—a ministry that represents every Orthodox priest and every Orthodox Christian in the United States today. We thank you!
Intro to Orthodox Christianity Catechism Class, Fall 2026
The Minnesota Eastern Orthodox Christian Clergy Association (MEOCCA) hosts two 12-week catechism classes throughout the year beginning in September and January. The Class Schedule, information, and registration is online HERE.
- Who: Anyone interested in learning more about Orthodox Christianity.
- What: Introduce and enhance people’s knowledge of the Orthodox Christian Faith.
- When: Tuesdays, September 8 – November 24, 2026, from 7:00 – 9:00 PM.
- Where: St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 1250 Oakdale Ave, West St. Paul, MN 55118, or online via Zoom.
- Cost: FREE!
Religious Education Schedule at St Mary’s
Check the Religious Education Schedule for St Mary’s Adult & Youth Classes, Bible Studies, Orthodox Catechism, & Other Educational Programs..






