Santa Barbara AHEPA Chapter 243

August 2006 Newsletter
ORDER OF AHEPA
SANTA BARBARA CHAPTER #243
Established October 17, 1929
“Promoting the Harmony of Greek Culture, Service, and Community”
“Keeping the Spirit Alive and in the Mix in 2006”
http://www.ahepa20.org/~chapter243/

Last month we heard the news that Fr. Paul would be moving to a new Parish (St. Mary Greek Orthodox Church) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. After the initial shock and after some contemplation, we are reminded of concepts which give us peace and optimism.
Life is an ongoing process which leads us to our greater potential and provides lessons for everyone concerned. This is a journey that ultimately leads us back to our Creator. Our biggest challenge is to trust the process. The fact that this change happened so effortlessly means that “it is naturally right” for everyone.
We will miss Fr. Paul’s loving personality and his sense of humor. More importantly he expresses a very quiet and peaceful optimism which reflects a deep spiritual faith that God is in control and all will be well. This peaceful approach is misunderstood by those who work hard trying to achieve an outcome to their liking. We should have direction and goals and yet at the same time know that the universe is always leading us to our good. This expectation is as it should be.
I am reminded of the very influential Folk-Rock singing group “The Byrds” who wrote and performed a song which was very popular-Turn! Turn!, Turn! The first verse goes as follows: “To Everything there is a season and a Time to Every Purpose under Heaven”
Fr. Paul and Prebytera Stephanie have left their imprint in this Parish and certainly in this Ahepa Chapter. We Thank them and offer them our Best Wishes as they continue on their journey.
On July 24th our Chapter held a very special dinner-meeting where we expressed our feelings to Fr. Paul for his service to Saint Barbara and to this Ahepa Chapter. Present were members of the District Lodge who also came to honor him, the man. This was a very special evening filled with laughter and a few tears.
If you wish to read the text of the Gift Presentation please go to our website. There you will also find news of Ahepa-Local, District, and National.
http://www.ahepa20.org/~chapter243/
Thank You We appreciate your support.

James Brown, President