Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church
Orthodox Church in America — Diocese of New York and New Jersey
Sunday, 11 October 2026
Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost — Tone 2
The Holy Fathers of the Seventh Ecumenical Council
The Hours, 9:30am · Divine Liturgy, 10:00am
The Very Reverend Father David Mezynski, Rector
The Epistle
2 Corinthians 11:31–12:9
The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me: and through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands.
It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) how that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities. For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.
And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
The Gospel
Luke 7:11–16
And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people. Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.
And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not. And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise. And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.
And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.
The week ahead
- Wednesday 14 October, 6:00pm — Akathist
- Wednesday 14 October, 8:00pm — Adult education, on Zoom
- Saturday 17 October, 6:00pm — Vespers
- Sunday 18 October, 9:30am — The Hours
- Sunday 18 October, 10:00am — Divine Liturgy
Announcements
Coffee hour follows the Divine Liturgy. Visitors, please do stay — it is the easiest way to meet the parish.
Adult education meets on Zoom on Wednesdays at 8:00pm. Inquirers, catechumens and anyone wishing to understand the faith more deeply are welcome; no preparation is needed.
House blessings: please speak to Father David to arrange a time for your house to be blessed.
Collections in the foyer: personal hygiene items for the Food Cupboard — toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, mouthwash, shampoo; and men's socks for the Open Door Mission.
855 South Goodman Street, Rochester, New York 14620
sjoca.org — fr.david@sjoca.org
Offerings may be made in the plate or online through the Giving page at sjoca.org.