CONTENTS

3 EDITORIAL by Very Rev. John Abdalah The Most Reverend 5 ADDRESS OF METROPOLITAN PHILIP Metropolitan PHILIP, D.H.L., D.D. TO THE ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION, Primate JULY 2003 The Right Reverend Bishop Antoun, Auxiliary 10 ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE The Right Reverend Bishop Joseph, Auxiliary 14 BRIEF REPORT OF THE FORTY-SIXTH The Right Reverend CONVENTION OF THE ANTIOCHIAN Bishop Basil, Auxiliary ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ARCHDIOCESE The Right Reverend OF NORTH AMERICA Bishop Demetri, Auxiliary Founded in Arabic as 16 SEPTEMBER IS FELLOWSHIP OF Al Kalimat in 1905 ST. JOHN THE DIVINE MONTH by Saint Raphael Hawaweeny Founded in English as 17 THE DEPARTMENT OF The Word in 1957 by Metropolitan Antony Bashir CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Editor in Chief 21 AN ARAB-AMERICAN AT WAR The Very Rev. John P. Abdalah, D.Min. by Sgt. Frank N. Pelligrini Assistant Editor Joanne M. Abdalah, MSW 27 THE DEPARTMENT OF MARRIAGE Editorial Board AND PARISH FAMILY MINISTRIES The Very Rev. Joseph J. Allen, Th.D. Anthony Bashir, Ph.D. The Very Rev. Antony Gabriel, Th.M. 29 VILLAGE VIEWS AND VIEWPOINTS The Very Rev. Peter Gillquist Linda Hopkins 31 THE ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS Anne Glynn Mackoul, J.D. Ronald Nicola 32 COMMUNITIES IN ACTION Najib E. Saliba, Ph.D. The Very Rev. Paul Schneirla, M.Div. 35 THE PEOPLE SPEAK Design Director Donna Griffin Albert Member The Associated Church Press Conciliar Press Ecumenical News International Orthodox Press Service COVER Editorial Office: The WORD THE HIERARCHS celebrate Divine Liturgy at the Archdiocese 635 Miranda Drive Convention Pittsburgh, PA 15241 e-mail: [email protected] FAX: 1-412-831-5554 Subscription Office: 358 Mountain Road Letters to the editor are welcome and should include the author’s full PO Box 5238 name and parish. Submissions for “Communities in Action” must be Englewood, NJ 07631-5238 approved by the local pastor. Both may be edited for purposes of clarity and space. All submissions, in hard copy, on disk or e-mailed, should be double-spaced for editing purposes. ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION: U.S.A. and Canada, $20.00 Foreign Countries, $26.00 Single Copies, $3.00 THE WORD (USPS626-260), published monthly except July and August, by the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America at 358 Mountain Road, PO Box 5238, periodicals postage paid at Englewood, New Jersey 07631-5238 and at addi- tional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to: THE WORD, 358 Mountain Road, PO Box 5238, Englewood, NJ 07631-5238 VOLUME 47 NO. 7 SEPTEMBER 2003 ISSN 0043-7964 www.antiochian.org.

2 The Word EDITORIAL ANTIOCHIAN GENIUS for AMERICA

HE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE 46TH Document outlines how the new diocesan bish- T Convention of the Antiochian Orthodox ops, our own Bishops Antoun, Joseph, Basil and Christian Archdiocese of North America Demetri, with Metropolitan Philip shall consti- began with the troparion of Pentecost and glowed tute a local synod in North America. Our with the fire of the Holy Spirit for two days. This Metropolitan will continue to serve as a member assembly was on fire with excitement and antici- of the Holy Synod of Antioch. Future diocesan pation. As each of the departments bishops would be nominated by the reported on its work, the spirit grew; Archdiocesan General Assembly, seek when Metropolitan Philip addressed EDITORIAL the blessings of His Beatitude Ignatius the assembly, the excitement swelled; BY IV, the Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch finally, when we heard of the great Very Rev. John P. and All the East, then be elected by work accomplished in Geneva by the Abdalah the local Synod of the Autonomous delegates of the Mother Church and Archdiocese of North America and our own Archdiocese, the excitement approved by its Metropolitan. The reached its crescendo. A resolution endorsing the election of the Metropolitan Primate would begin Geneva Document was presented and, by a roll with the nomination of three candidates by the call vote, 740 of the 743 delegates present General Assembly of the North American (99.6%) endorsed the work of the joint commit- Archdiocese and its local Synod. The names of tee, chaired by Metropolitan George (Khodre). the three nominees for primate would be submit- This document allows for the Antiochian ted to the Holy Synod, who shall elect the Archdiocese of North America to remain united Metropolitan within forty days. Chrism will still spiritually and canonically with come from the Patriarchate and all decisions of the great Church of Antioch the Holy Synod of Antioch concerning matters of while maintaining unity doctrine, liturgy and sacraments shall be binding within our own shores. The on the Autonomous Archdiocese. Relations with genius of this document autocephalous Orthodox Churches outside of allows enough autonomy North America, and ecumenical policy with for the North American regard to other Christian and non-Christian bod- Antiochian ies shall continue to be governed by the Holy Church to Synod of Antioch. minister The genius of this agreement is that it effectively allows for the Autonomous Archdiocese without in America to continue to benefit losing our from the rich and holy traditions cherished of Antioch tie to the while meet- Mother ing the Church. practical The administra- Geneva tive needs of the growing

September 2003 3 EDITORIAL

and vibrant North American Church. The “Spirit in this land has weakened our Christian witness. of Antioch” is one that has been inclusive and Our Church cannot tolerate division. We need to enthusiastic from the start. St. Paul’s missionary work together with other Orthodox as much as work was based in the city of Antioch, which was possible. Our unity will allow us to work more mostly Gentile but included a population that effectively with other Orthodox Churches here. was culturally and racially diverse. It included Thanks to God, the Geneva agreement allows for people who were both Jewish and non-Jewish, Antiochian unity within the American shores Greek-speaking and non Greek-speaking, multi- and unity with the Mother Church. With much lingual and of varied origins. It was a city of peo- pride in Antioch, I recognize this Antiochian ple from various dispersions who relocated to document as part of the genius, flexibility and this ancient capital after being displaced from love that reflects the ancient “spirit of Antioch.” their homelands for a multitude of reasons. This I believe that history will record this agreement was the cultural background that allowed Paul to to be inspired by the Holy Spirit and a gift to preach a message which would inspire and con- world Orthodoxy. vert much of the known world. Hence, the expe- Our Father and Shepherd Metropolitan Philip riences of Antioch allow the Antiochian Church will attend the Holy Synod Meeting in October, a special witness to America, which is also cul- when the Synod will receive the Geneva turally and racially diverse. Bringing this same Document which it commissioned. I pray that witness to America today is of great importance. the same Holy Spirit that came to the Church at America is filled with thousands of religious tra- Pentecost, dwelt with the commission of the Holy ditions. For Orthodoxy to prosper here today, Synod of Antioch in Geneva, and warmed the we need a united voice. faithful of our Archdiocese in Miami, will guide The Church in America treasures our unity our Holy Synod of Antioch when it assembles in on this North American continent. We have October to receive and act on the Geneva agree- already suffered too many schisms in our short ment. May God bless our Father and Patriarch history, Antacky-Russe and New York-Toledo, Ignatius and all of the Holy Metropolitans of our and we know that disunity among the Orthodox Holy Antiochian Church.

4 The Word Address of Metropolitan Philip to the

ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION, 2003 MIAMI, FLORIDA

Your Eminences, Your Graces, do not deserve to be His followers. tual and physical sickness. Did He Beloved Clergy, Esteemed Members We cannot serve others if we do not come to our broken world out of of the Board of Trustees, Parish love them. In John 12:26, Jesus said: necessity? Was He forced to come Councils, and all Faithful of our “If anyone serves me, he must fol- and serve us? No, He came out of God-protected Archdiocese, low me.” And to follow Him, we absolute love, willingness and in full must take up the cross and follow obedience to the Father. St. Paul “The son of man came not to be Him. The road to the kingdom is puts it this way in Galatians 4:4, “In served, but to serve, and to give His narrow, difficult, covered with the fullness of time, God sent forth life as ransom for many” (Matt. thorns and hissing reptiles. Are we His son, born of a woman,” to make 20:28). willing to walk this road and accept us God’s sons. Because of His love this challenge? for us, “The Word became flesh and S YOU WELL KNOW, THE Some thinkers ask, “What hap- dwelt among us full of grace and A theme of our convention this pened to Christianity? It is ineffec- truth” (John 1:14). He became man year is “service.” In order to tive, marginalized, and without any in order to make us “partakers of understand this theme, we must impact on our moral, spiritual, polit- the Divine nature” (II Peter 1:4). know its context. In Matthew 20:20, ical and social life.” I say, “Nothing The whole purpose of the incarna- “the mother of the sons of Zebedee has happened to Christianity; it is tion, then, was to rescue us from the came up to Him (Jesus) with her still treasured in the Church which corruption of death, and this is the sons, and kneeling before Him, she Christ established and redeemed by ultimate of love and service. If God asked Him to do her a favor. And He His own blood.” Yes, my friends, so served us, loved us, died for us said to her, ‘What do you want?’ She Christianity is here, pure and intact; and was resurrected from the dead said to Him, ‘Command that these but we do not have many for us, how should we serve Him in two sons of mine may sit, one at Christians, many true followers of return? In Matthew, He said, “Truly, your right hand and one at your left, Christ, especially in the so-called I say to you, as you did it to one of in your kingdom.’ ” The story con- Christian nations of this world. the least of these my brethren, you tinues: “And when the ten heard it, In II Timothy 2:4, St. Paul said: did it to me” (25:40). Therefore, we they were indignant at the two “No soldier on service gets entan- serve Him by serving each other and brothers.” But Jesus called them to gled in civilian pursuits, since his by serving every Him and said, “You know that the aim is to satisfy the one who enlist- human being creat- rulers of the Gentiles like to lord it ed him.” And in Matthew 6:24, ed in His own over them, and their great men Jesus said: “No one can serve two image and like- exercise authority over them. It masters; for either he will hate ness, regardless shall not be so among you; but who- the one and love the other, or he of race, color, ever would be great among you must will be devoted to the one and creed, or be your servant and whoever would despise the other. You cannot nationality. be first among you must be your serve God and mammon.” This has slave; even the son of man came not If we, seriously, contemplate the been our to be served but to serve, and to give life of Christ, we realize that our practice in His life as a ransom for many.” Lord came to this world on a mis- Jesus is trying to teach His disci- sion of service. How did He serve? ples that any honor, any prestige, He reconciled man to God; He any authority and any greatness, if it preached the good news; He is not based on service, is false, healed the paralyzed, the prideful, empty and meaningless. If blind, the lepers; He raised we are not willing to sacrifice even the dead. In other words, our lives as “ransom for many,” we He came to heal our spiri-

September 2003 5 ADDRESS OF METROPOLITAN PHILIP this Archdiocese and it will remain God has appointed in the Church tional parish, and yet last year, we so. All of us have been created with first apostles, second prophets, third had thirteen divorces in the parish.” talents; let us not bury these talents teachers, then workers of miracles, Our families are breaking apart and in the ground. Let us use them for then healers, helpers and adminis- the number of divorces is now one the service of others and for the edi- trators.” in two marriages. One of my priests fication of the Church. All of us must work together like a told me a few weeks ago: “The In First Corinthians 12:4, St. Paul symphony, as St. Ignatius put it, not forces of this world are tearing the said: “Now there are varieties of for our own glory but for the glory of very fabric of family life asunder.” In gifts, but the same spirit; and there God and the edification of the order to reverse this trend and pro- are varieties of service, but the same Church. God gave us this vineyard tect our children from this anti- Lord; and there are varieties of to cultivate it and protect it. There Christ culture, we must do our best working, but it is the same God who are many wolves and foxes waiting to transform this culture into a inspires them all in everyone.” You to devour the sheep and destroy the Christ-centered one; hence the can see that all of us have various vineyard. We must not let them and importance of the new “Department gifts. By virtue of our baptism, we we must seek the help of God to give of Marriage and Parish Family

are called to be ministers and us the strength so that we may pro- Ministries,” which I established this servants. tect this vineyard with our mighty year under the leadership of Our Archdiocese exemplifies this arms. Khourieh Maggie Hock. Maggie will biblical reality. Some of us are bish- My dear brothers and sisters in visit our conferences and conduct ops, some of us are priests, some are Christ, seminars on pre-marriage and post- deacons and subdeacons. Some of We have come a long way during marriage problems. If you need her us are Archdiocesan Trustees, some the past thirty-seven years, but we in your parish, extend to her an are members of the Order of St. still have a long way to go. We have invitation at your own expense. If Ignatius, some are members of the not yet reached the state of perfec- you want to know more about this Antiochian Women, some are mem- tion and I doubt if we ever will; but important department and Khourieh bers of the Fellowship of St. John we must try. We used to rely on the Maggie, I refer you to our April issue the Divine and some are members of old values which the immigrants of The WORD magazine. I have full SOYO. Some are choir leaders and brought with them to these blessed confidence in Maggie and ask you to some are choir members. Some are shores. Unfortunately, the old values give her your full cooperation. church school superintendents and no longer exist because we have My dear friends, some are church school teachers. ceased to be a church of immi- We cannot serve you as you Some of us raise money for the poor grants. We are an integral part of deserve without adequate financial to feed the hungry and clothe the this society, subjected to all the support. The last time we increased naked. Is this not what the Church forces of decadence and corruption. your assessment was eight years is all about? In the same epistle, We no longer live in ethnic ghettos, ago. I would like to remind you Chapter 12:27, St. Paul continues: nor are we an island. One of our dis- again and again that this assessment “Now you are the body of Christ and tinguished trustees told me a few is based on the number of baptized individually members of it. And months ago: “I come from a tradi- souls in your parish, active or non-

6 The Word ADDRESS OF METROPOLITAN PHILIP active, alike. If you have non-active Archdiocese, which are giving ten this nation? Where is our impact on members in your parish, it is the percent of their gross income to the moral life of this nation? Where responsibility of your priest, your their parishes and the Archdiocese. is our impact on the social life of parish council and your stewardship Do not ever forget that what you this nation? Where is our impact on committee to activate them. But as have is not yours; it belongs to God. the political life of this nation? I can long as these people are on your I have asked the Director of our still ask many, many questions, but mailing list, and as long as you Christian Education Department, unfortunately, the answer is simple: marry them and bury them, you Mrs. Carole Buleza, to make tithing we have no impact whatsoever. must pay for them. a part of our Christian Education Why? Because of our disunity and Last May 14, the Department of curriculum. fragmentation; and we are becoming Finance met at the Archdiocesan I am happy to tell you that in the more and more fragmented because headquarters to examine our year 2002-2003, we had twenty-nine of blind leadership. finances and prepare a budget for seminarians enrolled at various sem- Two years ago, at the Archdiocese the fiscal year ending January 31, inaries. Eleven of them graduated Convention in Los Angeles, 2005. After a lengthy discussion, the last May and have already been California, a resolution was submit- department approved a budget in assigned to various parishes. In the ted to you seeking autonomy for this the amount of $4,413,000.00, the year 2003-2004, we will have twen- Archdiocese. After discussion, this biggest budget in the history of our ty-six seminarians enrolled at vari- assembly voted, and the vote was Archdiocese. In order to cover this ous seminaries in North America. 97.7%, in favor of autonomy. Last budget, the department voted unani- Our seminarians receive full schol- year, in June 2002, I traveled, with a mously to increase the assessment arships from our Archdiocese, con- delegation, to attend the meeting of from $25.00 per baptized soul to trary to seminarians from other the Holy Synod of Antioch. The $30.00 per baptized soul, annually. jurisdictions, who have to borrow Holy Synod resolved unanimously to Some of you might ask, “why the money in order to pay for their the- bless your wishes and called for the increase in the budget?” The answer ological education. Every year we appointment of a joint committee is: receive a large number of applica- from the Patriarchate and this 1. We have budgeted $60,000.00 tions for theological studies. These Archdiocese to meet and work out for the new Department of applications must go, like all ordina- some of the details of this autono- Marriage and Parish Family tions, through a Review Board, my. Last November 2002, His Ministry. chaired by His Grace Bishop Beatitude Patriarch Ignatius IV 2. We have budgeted $45,000.00 Antoun. The recommendations of appointed a Patriarchal Committee to cover the operation of the this Review Board are submitted to chaired by His Eminence Metro- new museum at the Heritage me for final approval. I would like to politan Elias Audi of Beirut and I and Learning Center which will take this opportunity to thank His appointed a committee, chaired by be dedicated next year in June. Grace Bishop Antoun and all mem- His Grace Bishop Basil. His 3. We have budgeted $150,000.00 bers of the Review Board for a job Eminence Metropolitan Georges to renovate the swimming pool, very well done. Thank God the over- Khodr of Mount Lebanon was the camp kitchen, and camper whelming majority of our priests are appointed by His Beatitude as Chair cabins at the Antiochian doing their best to bring man to God of the Joint Committee. The Joint Village. and God to man. Committee met in Geneva, Switzer- 4. We have budgeted $55,000.00 Ladies and Gentlemen, land, and after two days of delibera- for increased costs of various The last issue which I would like tion, approved the statement which departments, retired clergy to revisit with you is the question of was mailed to all of you and which housing allowances, and our autonomy. For the past fifty you will consider at this assembly. Archdiocese headquarters. years, our Archdiocese has champi- This statement was approved by our 5. We have budgeted $20,000.00 oned the cause of Orthodox unity in Archdiocese Bishops’ Council on to increase the stipends of our North America. If you read my book April 30, 2003. It was also endorsed bishops, which they certainly entitled, And He Leads Them, which by an overwhelming majority of the deserve. was published two years ago, you Board of Trustees of this Archdio- All these increases total will find a prominent theme which cese with a very minimal change. If $330,000.00. I remember in 1966, runs through the whole book; this you accept this Geneva statement, I the budget of the whole Archdiocese theme is Orthodox unity in North will be able to submit it, on your was $65,000.00. Now, if we sudden- America. If we do not take practical behalf, to the Holy Synod of Antioch ly, and through magic, do not lose steps to begin this journey to the as the official recommendation of ten thousand people from this promised land of Orthodox unity in this Archdiocese. Archdiocese, we will be able to live this hemisphere, we will remain A member of the Board of with this budget. At this time, I nothing but an insignificant footnote Trustees who did not vote for the would be remiss if I do not thank on the margin of history. Where is Geneva statement said to me, “Why the tithing parishes in our our spiritual impact on the life of the rush? Be patient!” We have

September 2003 7 ADDRESS OF METROPOLITAN PHILIP

been patient for the past two years. your wisdom. These are two old peo- delegation to Damascus, Syria, and This reminded me of a story which ple. Between now and next year, Geneva, Switzerland, for the sacred happened in Tripoli, Lebanon in the they may kill each other.” He cause of this Archdiocese. early 50’s. In those days, I was blessed himself for the third time I would like to thank the Chair- teaching Arabic Language and and said, “Yes, my son, you are man of the Department of Finance Literature at the Balamand Semi- right. Between now and next year, and Village Council, Mr. Robert nary. His Beatitude, of Thrice- either she will die or he will die and Laham and all his co-workers on the blessed memory, Theodosius VI, was the problem will be solved.” budget committee, for a job very then the Metropolitan of Tripoli. My dear friends, well done. Next June, we want all of Every Saturday, he sent his car to Our people in the East believe you to come to the Antiochian bring me to Tripoli to assist him in that time or death can solve prob- Village and witness the dedication of the Divine Liturgy on Sunday. One lems, i.e., if Metropolitan Philip dies, our new museum which will house Saturday, while talking in his office, the problem will be solved, and the our sacred and cultural heritage. suddenly we heard voices in the Archdiocese will be divided and our I would like to thank our faithful lobby of the Archbishopric. He quest for autonomy will die. Thus, Assistant Treasurer, Mr. George blessed himself and said to me, “My “Why the rush? Be patient!” We, in Nassor, who does his work joyfully son, it is Saturday and we do not America, do not believe that time and cheerfully. have a Spiritual Court today. Go and and death can solve problems; nor I would like to thank our two bril- find out who is there.” I did and do we believe that the death of the liant chancellors, Mr. Robert Koory found two old people, a husband and Metropolitan can divide this strong, and Mr. Charles Ajalat, for their wife, shouting at each other. I united and mighty Archdiocese. We valuable legal work on behalf of our returned to the Archbishop’s office are confident that, with the help of Archdiocese. If we had to pay them and told him what was happening. God, we can solve problems, not for their work, it would cost this The Archbishop blessed himself time or death. If we ever reach a Archdiocese tens of thousands of again and said to me, “Invite them dead end, we will part the mountain dollars. in.” They walked into his office very and make an exit. There are no dead I would like to thank our very able tense and troubled. The Archbishop ends; because there are other choic- Secretary of the Board of Trustees, said to them: “You must be having es. If we do not take this simple step who takes excellent and exact min- problems.” They said: “Yes, we want toward Orthodox unity in North utes, Doctor John Dalack. a divorce.” The Archbishop said to America, our quest for this unity I would like to thank all our them, “I will talk to you separately.” will suffer a setback for the next one esteemed members of our Board of The wife left. I got up to leave, also. hundred years. Trustees for their generosity and The Archbishop said to me, “My This message will be incomplete if commitment to the eternal ideals son, you stay.” I did, hoping to learn I do not thank my brother bishops: and principles of this God-protected something. The Archbishop asked namely, His Grace Bishop Antoun; Archdiocese. Besides the work they the husband, “What is wrong with His Grace Bishop Joseph; His Grace do for us, many of them contribute your wife?” The husband said, “She Bishop Basil and, last but not least, to the Archdiocese very generously does not cook; she does not clean His Grace Bishop Demetri. I am to help realize the goals of this the house; she does not iron my proud of our bishops. They have Archdiocese. Check your financial shirts and she does not shine my been working very hard and all of report carefully. shoes, etc.” The Archbishop said, them are committed to our future I would like to thank the Chair- “Now go out, and let me hear from dreams. man, leadership and all members of your wife.” The wife walked in and I would like to thank our beloved the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch. the Archbishop asked her, “What is clergy who preach the good news, in They are indeed the philanthropic wrong with your husband?” She season and out of season. In the arm of this Archdiocese. The Order said, “He does not work; he plays prayer of the prothesis of the liturgy of St. Ignatius is responsible for one- cards all day with his friends; he of St. Basil, we read: “Thou art He third of our budget and, since its drinks too much; he gambles and who hath appointed us to this ser- inception, it has raised more than sometimes I find him looking at the vice in the power of thy Holy Spirit. thirteen million dollars woman next door; he doesn’t show Graciously grant us, therefore, O ($13,000,000.00) for charity and me any affection.” The Archbishop Lord, to be servants of thy New various projects of this great Arch- said to me, “My son, invite the hus- Covenant, ministers of thy holy diocese. We are eternally indebted band in.” I did. The Archbishop said mysteries.” To you, fathers and ser- to the membership of the Order. to both of them, “You are having vants of the New Covenant, I say, Thirty years ago, in a bright very serious problems. Go home; be once again, “Thank you from the moment of our history and during patient and come and see me next depth of my heart.” the Archdiocese Convention in year.” When they left, I was puzzled I would like to thank our distin- Atlanta, Georgia, I founded the and curious. I said to the guished Vice-Chairman, Doctor Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archbishop, “I did not understand George Farha, who traveled with our Women of North America. These

8 The Word ADDRESS OF METROPOLITAN PHILIP wonderful ladies are totally dedicat- work and dedication. Each and more than 2,800 members.” I say, ed to the cause of orphans and the everyone of you is to be commended “buss” (Is that all?) She shakes her poor of this world, regardless of for giving freely of your time and tal- head and says, “Buss.” race, color, creed or nationality. If ents and working diligently for the I would also like to thank the the Order is the philanthropic arm cause of Orthodoxy. newest member of my staff, my of this Archdiocese, the Antiochian Last, but not least, I would like to Episcopal assistant, the Reverend Women are the heart of our Arch- express my very deep gratitude to Father George Kevorkian, who is diocese. I proudly congratulate them my staff; although they are few, they really a breath of fresh air in my on their thirtieth anniversary. accomplish so much. I want to office. Next, I would like to thank the thank Archdeacon Hans, who takes Last, but not least, I want to thank leadership and members of the good care of the Book Department a gentleman who keeps me informed Fellowship of St. John the Divine, and many, many other things in the about our receipts and expendi- who have worked so hard every year Archdiocese. Archdeacon Hans is tures, Mr. Peter Dacales. You know to make our parish life conferences truly a blessing to us. well that without fiscal responsibili- fruitful and productive. SOYO or Next, I want to thank a lady who ty, this Archdiocese can easily be Teen SOYO is the heartbeat of this has dedicated her life to this “in the red.” I will not let that hap- Archdiocese. If you visit our parish Archdiocese. Words are inadequate pen. Many thanks, Peter. life conferences throughout this to describe her energy and zeal. Ladies and Gentlemen, Archdiocese, you will find that the Lately, she has been nagging me Since the theme of our convention best attended meeting is the meet- about retirement, and every time this year is “service,” I would like to ing of SOYO. Between Father Joseph she does that, I tell her to “go to conclude this message with these Purpura, Father Michael Nasser, the your desk and finish your work.” words from an Orthodox Western Department of Christian Education, Recently, I said to her, “You will Father: the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch never finish your work. I guess you “Teach us, good Lord, to serve you and the leadership of Teen SOYO, are not going to retire until I die or as you deserve. we are doing everything possible to you die.” Thank you, Kathy, for your To give and not to count the cost. keep our teens joyful, faithful and work and all the years. To fight and not to heed the committed to the Church through I would like to thank Arlene Assile wounds. Christ Jesus, who is the only way, who knows everything about the To toil and not to seek for rest. the only truth and the only life. Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch. She To labor and not to ask for any I would like to thank Robin reports to me every week about the reward, Nicholas, who has been the devoted increase of membership and every Save that of knowing that we do coordinator of the “Food for Hungry time, she enthusiastically and Thy will.” People Program” for many years. As proudly says to me, “We now have Thank you. you know the Church is rooted in charity and we must always be mindful of those who are hungry, thirsty, naked, prisoners and strangers, according to Christ’s com- mission. It is a shame that some parishes who can give so much for the poor, give so little. Many thanks to you, Robin, for a job well done. I would be remiss if I do not take a moment to thank all of the chairs of the Archdiocese Departments and Commissions, namely: Charities and Children’s Relief Fund, Christian Education, Clergy Insurance and Retirement, Communications and Information, Conciliar Press, Con- ventions and Conference Planning, Inter-Orthodox and Inter-faith Relations, Lay Ministries, Liturgics and Translations, Missions and Evangelism, Sacred Music, Steward- ship, Theological and Pastoral Education, The Western Rite, and The Word magazine for your hard

September 2003 9 ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE

ARCHDIOCESE BOARD HOLDS SPRING MEETING

he Spring Meeting of the T Archdiocesan Board of Trustees met the weekend of May 30-31, 2003 in Englewood, NJ. This was the first meeting since the Geneva meeting last November regarding our autonomy. As such, the results of that meeting along with the “Geneva Proposal” dominated the opening session of the meeting on Friday evening. After lengthy discus- sion, the proposal was given an overwhelming vote of support with one minor proposed modification on a point that could not be agreed upon in Geneva. Other issues that were discussed were the new Left to right: Syrian Ambassador to the US, His Excellency Rustom Al-Zoby; Metropolitan Department of Marriage and Family Philip; Nicola Antakli; Lebanese Consul General in NYC, the Honorable Ramy Mortada Ministries, that will be headed by Khourieh Maggie Hock of Omaha, Board members and the members of NE, the increase in the annual Ambassador of Syria to the United the governing council of the Order Archdiocese Assessment from States, and the Honorable Ramy of St. Ignatius of Antioch (which $25.00 to $30.00 and the 2005 bud- Mortada, the Lebanese Consul also met prior to the Board meet- get, which exceeds 4.4 million dol- General in New York, both of whom ing), honored guests included His lars for the first time ever, all of spoke eloquently to those present. Excellency Rustom Al-Zoby, the which were approved by the Board of Trustees of the Archdiocese. Reports were also given by the vari- ous organizations, including the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch, Fellowship of St. John the Divine, Antiochian Women, The Antiochian Village Camp and the Heritage and Learning Center. During the opening of the meeting a moment of silence was observed to note the passing of long-time Board member George Joseph of Toledo, OH this past April. Metropolitan Philip also used the meeting as an occasion to praise the Antiochian Women as they celebrate their 30th anniversary this year. On Saturday evening, all present were treated to a delightful dinner hosted by His Eminence Metro- politan Philip at the Archdiocesan headquarters. In addition to the Chancellor Robert Koory, Bishop Antoun, Trustee Fawaz El-Khoury

10 The Word ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE

Antiochian graduates of St. Vladimir Seminary with Bishop Antoun, on Saturday, May 17, 2003. From left to right: Adam Cook, Fr. James Coles, Fr. Gabriel Bullock, Bishop Antoun, Fr. Basil Koory, Christine Jabbour, Catherine Wasson, Fred Bittle, Resa Ellison.

ORDAINED Conference, Phoenix, AZ. He is of Archpriest on Sunday, June 8, 2003. attached to St. George Church, Deacon ELIAS El-FERZLI to the holy RETIRED priesthood on Sunday, May 11, 2003 Phoenix, AZ. Archpriest of St. at Our Lady of Balamand Monastery, Subdeacon to the DENNIS HEIFNER GLENN McINTYRE Elias Church, La Crosse, WI, effec- Balamand, Lebanon. diaconate on May 25, 2003 at St. tive August 1, 2003. George Church, New Kensington, Deacon STEVE VanBRONKHURST to the holy priesthood on May 18, PA. He is attached to that parish. APPOINTED 2003 at St. George Cathedral, Subdeacon DAVID KHOREY to the Archimandrite MICHAEL EVANS as Toledo, OH. He is released to the diaconate on June 29, 2003 at St. the pastor of St. Elias Church, Archdiocese of Mexico and Central Nicholas Church, Grand Rapids, MI. Atlanta, GA, effective July 1, 2003. America, where he will serve a mis- He is attached to that parish. Priest JOHN WINFREY as the pastor sion in Ecuador. Subdeacon DANIEL THOMAS to the of St. Basil the Great Church, Ocala, Deacon JAMES THAYER to the holy diaconate on June 29, 2003 at the FL, effective July 7, 2003. priesthood at St. George Cathedral New England Region Parish Life Priest GABRIEL BULLOCK as the pastor in Wichita, KS, on Pentecost, June Conference, Portland, ME and to the of St. Nicholas Mission, Myrtle 15, 2003. He is assigned pastor of holy priesthood on July 6, 2003 at Beach, SC, effective July 7, 2003. the Church of St. John the Theolo- the Eastern Region Parish Life gian in Rapid City, SD, and priest-in- Conference in Valley Forge, PA. Priest STEPHEN ZITON as the pastor of charge of Holy Resurrection Mission the Antiochian Orthodox Mission in Subdeacon to in Gillette, WY. THOMAS UNDERWOOD Ann Arbor, MI, effective August 1, 2003. the diaconate on July 6, 2003 at the Deacon NOAH BUSHELLI to the holy Eastern Region Parish Life Priest NABIL FINO as the pastor of priesthood on June 29, 2003 at Sts. Conference in Valley Forge, PA. He the new Mission Station in Birming- Peter and Paul Church, Ben Lomond, is attached to St. Paul Church, ham, AL, effective August 1, 2003. CA. He is attached to St. Nicholas Emmaus, PA. Priest BASIL KOORY as dean of St. Cathedral, Brooklyn, NY while he Subdeacon George Cathedral, Toledo, OH, effec- completes his seminary studies. DAVID (GRAHAM) SCOTT to the diaconate on July 6, 2003 tive August 1, 2003. Deacon NABIL FINO to the holy during the Can-Am Parish Life Priest DANIEL THOMAS as the pastor priesthood on June 22, 2003 at the Conference. He is attached to St. of Sts. Peter and Paul Mission in Southeast Region Parish Life George Church, Niagara Falls, NY. Boone, NC and Holy Resurrection Conference in Atlanta, GA. ELEVATED Mission in Johnson City, TN, effec- Subdeacon to tive August 1, 2003. RAPHAEL ABRAHAMS Priest of St. Mark the diaconate on May 25, 2003 at JOHN CONNELY Church in Denver, CO, to the dignity Priest JAMES COLES as the assistant the Western Region Parish Life

September 2003 11 ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE

pastor of St. Mary Church, Montreal, PQ, Canada, effective August 1, 2003.

AWARDED The Antonian Silver Medal to MRS. SUZIE SAYFIE on July 26, 2003 at the Grand Banquet of the Archdiocese Convention in Miami, FL.

RELEASED Priest YOUSSEF SAMAAN to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, effective July 1, 2003.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE Archpriest TIMOTHY FERGUSON, effective July 1, 2003.

DEPOSED

The former Archimandrite MICHAEL Metropolitan Philip with Dean John Erickson and Metropolitan Herman of the OCA GRAVES (a former priest of the Antiochian Archdiocese) by the Metropolitan Philip; Protopresbyter SVS Dean John Erickson praised Greek Orthodox Church of Panama Robert Kondratick, OCA Chan- Metropolitan Philip for three quali- and Central America. cellor; Protopresbyter Thomas ties: his eloquence and love of the Hopko, Dean Emeritus; Mrs. written and spoken word, his mag- Julianna Schmemann; Mrs. Marie nanimity and exceptional generosi- SVS DEDICATES Meyendorff; members of the SVS ty, and his profound hospitality. METROPOLITAN PHILIP Board of Trustees and the Metropolitan Philip responded SALIBA AUDITORIUM Antiochian Archdiocese Board of with warmth, revisiting many of his most cherished themes, especially n Friday, May 16, 2003, hierar- Trustees; and many others associat- the quest for Orthodox unity in O chs, friends, alumni, and sup- ed with the seminary. America. porters of Saint Vladimir Seminary The Rev. Michael Ellias served as “You can’t turn back the wheels of gathered for a banquet in the Master of Ceremonies, while SVS time,” Metropolitan Philip stated. Metropolitan Philip Saliba trustees Brian Gerich and Al “It’s going to happen, sometime, in Auditorium as the facility was for- Foundos, who oversaw the seminary’s God’s time, because it’s God’s will mally dedicated in the presence of capital campaign, added touching that it happen,” he said, adding that its patron, His Eminence Metro- remarks about the many donors who the seminary is a prototype of what politan Philip of the Antiochian made the new building, and specifi- this future unity will look like. Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of cally the auditorium, possible. North America. The auditorium, situated on the top floor of the new John G. Rangos Family Foundation Building, has become the site of various seminary events, such as retreats, lectures, symposia, concerts, and presenta- tions, and it has already become a much-used and much-admired space, of functional and physical beauty. The dedication was all the more joyous as His Beatitude Metropolitan Herman, SVS President, welcomed Metropolitan Philip. Joining Metropolitan Herman were His Eminence Archbishop Peter of New York and New Jersey, a member of the seminary faculty; His Grace Bishop Antoun, Auxiliary to A special Byzantine choir of Antiochian seminarians gathered for the evening

12 The Word ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE

Invited guests for the dedication banquet

DAILY DEVOTIONS DONATIONS TO THE WORD Sally Rihbany $100.00 Kamel Mudarry OCTOBER, 2003 In memory of my sister Aghnie Mudarry 25.00 1. HEBREWS 9:1-7; LUKE 10:38-42, 11:27-28 (FAST) Elpiniki Maropoulos 20.00 2. EPHESIANS 1:1-9; LUKE 6:12-19 Joanna C. Marge 40.00 3. EPHESIANS 1:7-17; LUKE 6:17-23 (FAST) Robert and Kathy Simon 4. 1 CORINTHIANS 10:23-28; LUKE 5:17-26 In memory of the 5. 2 CORINTHIANS 6:1-10; LUKE 6:31-36 Very Rev. Michael G. and Sara Hyder Simon 50.00 6. EPHESIANS 1:22-2:3; LUKE 6:24-30 Walter and 7. EPHESIANS 2:19-3:7; LUKE 6:37-45 Grace Mary Parhamovich 8. EPHESIANS 3:8-21; LUKE 6:46-7:1 (FAST) In memory of our daughter, 9. EPHESIANS 4:14-19; LUKE 7:17-30 Beverly Ann 500.00 10. EPHESIANS 4:17-25; LUKE 7:31-35 (FAST) Patricia Moslener 20.00 11. 1 CORINTHIANS 14:20-25; LUKE 5:27-32 Nick Boassaly 20.00 12. TITUS 3:8-15; LUKE 8:5-15 Very Rev. Athanasios 13. EPHESIANS 4:25-32; LUKE 7:36-50 Emmert 50.00 14. EPHESIANS 5:20-26; LUKE 8:1-3 Lila Hamaty 25.00 15. EPHESIANS 5:25-33; LUKE 8:22-25 (FAST) James Rihbany 50.00 16. EPHESIANS 5:33-6:9; LUKE 9:7-11 Rosalyn E. Roe 30.00 17. EPHESIANS 6:18-24; LUKE 9:12-18 (FAST) Mr. and Mrs. Roy Samra 25.00 18. COLOSSIANS 4:5-9, 14, 18; LUKE 10:16-21 Sleiman Abou-Assaly 100.00 Rev. Herbert Nahas 50.00 19. 2 CORINTHIANS 9:6-11; LUKE 7:11-16 Lucille David 25.00 20. PHILIPPIANS 1:1-7; LUKE 9:18-22 Virginia Maloley 21. PHILIPPIANS 1:8-14; LUKE 9:23-27 In memory of 22. PHILIPPIANS 1:12-20; LUKE 9:44-50 (FAST) Patricia Salhoney 25.00 23. PHILIPPIANS 1:20-27; LUKE 9:49-56 Charles Genite 15.00 24. PHILIPPIANS 1:27-2:4; LUKE 10:1-15 (FAST) Nora Corey 60.00 25. 1 CORINTHIANS 15:58-16:3; LUKE 7:2-10 Sam Salloum 25.00 26. 2 TIMOTHY 2:1-10; LUKE 8:26-39 Agnes R. Cassis 100.00 27. PHILIPPIANS 2:12-16; LUKE 10:22-24 Dr. George and 28. PHILIPPIANS 2:17-23; LUKE 11:1-10 Brenda Farha 500.00 29. PHILIPPIANS 2:24-30; LUKE 11:9-13 (FAST) Albert and Betty Kishek 100.00 30. PHILIPPIANS 3:1-8; LUKE 11:14-23 Stephen Zain 20.00 31. PHILIPPIANS 3:8-19; LUKE 11:23-26 (FAST) Rev. William and Debra Evansky 25.00 Mrs. Claire N. Rahal 25.00 by Very Rev. George Alberts

September 2003 13 Forty-Sixth Convention of the ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA

CONVENED IN MIAMI, FLORIDA FROM JULY 21-27, 2003

HE FORTY-SIXTH CONVEN- Antiochian Archdiocese of Australia 211 Life Members. T tion of the Antiochian and New Zealand. The Antiochian Orthodox Orthodox Christian Arch- On Monday evening July 21, the Christian Women of North America diocese of North America convened Cathedral of St. George of Coral (AOCWNA) held their Assembly and at the Fontainebleau Hilton Hotel in Gables, FL hosted a welcome recep- luncheon on Wednesday, July 23. Miami, FL from the 21st to the 27th tion, which was attended by 350 Among the highlights this year was day of July, 2003. It was attended by clergy and trustees. the celebration of the 30th anniver- more than two thousand delegates, On Tuesday, July 22, the sary of AOCWNA, whose members and more than two hundred and Metropolitan presided over the have labored unwaveringly to assist fifty clergy. Clergy Assembly, and held a dia- orphans, the poor and destitute Metropolitan Philip, Primate of the logue with them on important mat- around the world. Archdiocese, presided and conveyed ters pertaining to the Archdiocese. The departments of the Arch- to the hierarchs, clergy, members of The Grand Assembly of the Order diocese met on Wednesday, July 23, the Board of Trustees and all dele- of St. Ignatius of Antioch also met and the General Assembly convened gates the blessings and greetings of on Tuesday, July 22, and elected the on Thursday and Friday, July 24 and His Beatitude Ignatius IV, Patriarch following officers: Mr. Edward Assile, 25. The delegates heard reports of Antioch and all the East. In atten- Chairman; Mr. Daniel Abraham, from the 27 Archdiocesan depart- dance were three of the four Vice chairman; Mr. Anton Khoury, ments, commissions, councils, and Regional Bishops of the Arch- Treasurer; and Mrs. Mary Win- organizations. The General Assem- diocese, His Grace Bishop Antoun, stanley O’Connor, Secretary. The bly approved the following impor- His Grace Bishop Joseph, and His Order held a banquet on Tuesday tant items: Grace Bishop Basil. Also attending evening in honor of the outgoing 1. a resolution thanking the as an honored guest was officers. There are now 2,875 active Cathedral of St. George of Metropolitan Paul, Primate of the members of the Order, including Coral Gables, FL for hosting an outstanding Convention; 2. a resolution welcoming His Eminence Metropolitan Paul of Australia and New Zealand; 3. a budget in excess of $4.4 mil- lion, the largest operating bud- get in the history of the Archdiocese, for the 2005 fiscal year which runs from February 1, 2004 to January 31, 2005; 4. the “Geneva Agreement” on Autonomy as the official posi- tion of the Archdiocese. The Geneva Agreement on Autonomy was approved by a roll- call vote with an overwhelming majority of 99.6% of the votes cast being in favor of the proposal. This agreement was approved in Novem- ber 2002 by the joint committee

14 The Word FORTY-SIXTH CONVENTION

comprised of representatives of the delegates to the General Assembly, Sayfie, Chairlady of the Convention, Patriarchate of Antioch and the the 2007 Convention will be held in for her outstanding efforts. Archdiocese. When approved by the Montreal, and hosted by St. Nicholas The Convention concluded on Holy Synod of Antioch the details in Church of Montreal, Province of Sunday, July 27 with a most inspir- this agreement will guide the gover- Quebec, Canada. ing Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. The nance of the autonomous Arch- The Grand Banquet on Saturday beautiful choir, comprised of mem- diocese and its continuing close was attended by 1,500 people. Metro- bers from across the entire Archdio- relationship with the Holy Synod of politan Philip addressed the banquet cese, was conducted by Mr. James Antioch. The Holy Synod of Antioch attendees and presented the An- Meena, Chairman of the Archdio- will address this agreement at its tonian Silver Medal to Mrs. Suzanne cese Department of Sacred Music. upcoming meeting on October 14, 2003 in Damascus, Syria. His Eminence reappointed the fol- The Ancient Church lowing people to the Archdiocese A DOCUMENTARY FILM OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH Board of Trustees: Mr. Fawaz El- If you’ve ever tried to explain your faith to the recording. As he awoke from sleep one Khoury of Westboro, MA and Mr. someone who isn’t already Orthodox, you day, still in the twilight between dream and Mansour Rayan of Lincolnwood, IL. most likely had to start at the very begin- wake, he heard a voice, “Antioch.” He ning: 33 AD. In fact, most people don’t know thought nothing of it and went back to sleep. He also made the following new anything about the Orthodox church. THE The next morning, he hears a voice again, appointments to the Board: Mr. ANCIENT CHURCH is a documentary film this time screaming, “ANTIOCH.” Having no Joseph Hanna of Montreal, PQ, which traces the history of Christianity and idea what the word meant, he jumped out of Orthodoxy, from the beginning journeys of bed and ran to his bible to search for it. Just Canada, Mr. Anton Koury of Miami, the Apostles, through the schisms, the a few days later, he recalls, he received a call FL and Mr. Kory Warr of Oklahoma Protestant Reformation to the Orthodox from his agent to narrate a film about the City, OK. Church today. It combines the Church’s his- first church in Antioch. tory with an overview of what it stands for, This film is intended to be used as a tool. The following people were elected revealing a church of love that traces back to It is a perfect introduction to Orthodoxy for to the Board of Trustees: Mr. Alan Jesus Christ. those who don’t know much about it, and Abraham of Grand Rapids, MI, Dr. Through television and video release, still offers much to those who do. While we THE ANCIENT CHURCH was created as a sometimes look at our church as America’s David Bojrab of Ft. Wayne, IN, Mr. long-term fundraising project to benefit the “best kept secret,” this film inspires rather Don Braun of Goleta, CA, Dr. John Priest’s retirement fund. It seemed appropri- to spread Orthodoxy to the American com- Dalack of Staten Island, NY, Mr. ate that this film, designed to enlighten peo- munity. At the convention screening in ple of the authentic nature of the Orthodox Miami, it generated responses from, “it Philip Haddad of Charleston, WV, faith, would serve to help the Priests who brought tears to my eyes” to “I had no idea.” Dr. Donald Howard of Davie, FL, Mr. devoted their lives to God and their service While the details of televised airings are George Nassor of Wyckoff, NJ, Dr. to us. Never before in the history of not yet available, VHS copies of the film can Orthodoxy has such a film been made. A be ordered by calling (917) 721-5476. As all Raymond Rishwain of Stockton, CA, cast and crew of over 100 people were proceeds will be aiding our own priests, we Miss Jean Sam of Duluth, GA and involved in making this professional-grade hope our Orthodox community will embrace Dr. Joseph Samra of Pawtucket, RI. production, including Narrator Stephen this opportunity to share their faith with Baldwin, who recently converted to Chris- their friends and neighbors, and give back to The 2005 Convention will be held tianity. Behind the scenes, he told us of an the Priests who so faithfully served them. in Detroit and hosted by St. George event which happened just a week before Church of Troy, MI. By vote of the

September 2003 15 THE FELLOWSHIP OF ST. JOHN THE DIVINE September is Fellowship of St. John the Divine Month!

~If you do anything, do all for the glory of God~

Resource Book: the NAC Fellowships. In the Southwest, we THE PURPOSES OF THE Fellowship has put together a have Camp St. Raphael, in the FELLOWSHIP: Resource Book filled with ready-to- Midwest, there’s Camp St. George, go activities geared for each sub- and the Southeast and Can-Am 1. To serve as the “adult service group, should a parish have individ- Regions are planning on having their arm” of the Archdiocese. uals who want to start a Fellowship first camping season in the summer 2. On the Archdiocesan level, the chapter. Each parish has received a of 2004. Now, more of our children Fellowship of St. John serves the free copy. will have life-changing experiences role of brainstormer, idea sharer, and grow in our faith as a result! motivator, coordinator, and trainer. LIBRARY PROJECT, The Fellowship of St. John the 3. On a Regional level, the “2004 IN 2004”: Divine, formerly Senior SOYO, has Fellowship of St. John oversees mis- historically seen a need of the sion endowments, Parish Life he NAC Fellowship took on a Archdiocese and been there to fill it. Conferences and Creative Arts T Library Project that was started Festivals, hosts regional retreats and in the Eastern Region, where parish- DID YOU KNOW? delegates meetings, and starts es are donating 12 books on camps. Orthodoxy to local public libraries. • That the Fellowship of St. John 4. Locally, the Fellowship of St. It is a way to witness our treasured the Divine used to be called John can and should look like the faith and plant seeds of Orthodoxy “Senior SOYO”? model below, serving the needs of in our communities. Our goal is to • That this year marks the 10th each age group in the parish (Young have 2004 Orthodox books in North year that we have been called Adults, Adults, and Seniors) as American libraries by the end of “the Fellowship”? needed. One area of focus is to begin 2004. This goal is achievable, but • That our Patron Saint is one of Young Adult Fellowships in our local will take a commitment by all of us! the only saints depicted in icons parishes so that our teens can have If you break it down, that is only as a young boy (below with a place to go after “graduating” from 167 libraries. We need YOUR help to Jesus) and as an old man? Teen SOYO. make this ministry in our local com- • That if your parish needs a munities a success. For our current Young Adult or Senior group, NAC & Regional status report, an order form, or you can start one? Fellowship of more information about this project, • That “with God, all things are St. John the Divine e-mail Sara Bitar, our NAC Library possible” (Matt. 19:26)? Coordinator, at [email protected] or go to: Young Adult http://www.antiochian.org/ Fellowship 19-35 yrs. old Fellowship/LibLett.htm

REGIONAL SUMMER CAMPS

We are thankful that the Adult Senior Antiochian Village has been able to Fellowship Fellowship serve 1,000 of our children each 36-55 56+ yrs. old yrs. old summer. However, that represents less than 10% of the youth of our Archdiocese. With the blessing of our Metropolitan Philip, new region- May our good God bless all the al summer camps have started and work that the Fellowship of St. John Liturgical Life continue to grow under the leader- the Divine and our local parish of the Church ship and assistance of our Regional Ministry Teams do in His name!

16 The Word THE DEPARTMENT OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION SHARING THE FAITH

DEPARTMENT OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION NEWS

From the Director’s Desk November 6-9 ORTHODOX INSTITUTE Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ, 2003 Orthodox Institute For Christian Education BROCHURES READY! Greetings! You’ll find our format a bit different this n early September each issue, as we feature resource reviews on the next two Iparish priest and church pages. Let me offer you an update on our own publica- school director will receive a tions. We are very, very busy with work being prepared brochure for the OI. Please post for print, and (thankfully) in print! These are: 1) one (inside designed as a post- “Supplement to the OCEC Curriculum for Western er), and copy the registration Rite Churches,” being proofread and expected to be form on the last page of this available in September; 2) the new Orthodox Pageant Sponsored by the Antiochian Orthodox Department of Christian Education newsletter for all interested. If Book, being edited and to be in print in early you need more brochures, contact the November; and 3) the Orthodox Institute Brochure, Department. READY with an exciting schedule of 20 courses. (For information on The Way, The Truth, and The Life, see NEW PROGRAM FOR TEACHER the following page.) CERTIFICATION We extend our welcome to Vasiliki (Billie) Oldziey, representing the southwest region on our staff! o provide inspired and trained teachers for our Welcome also to all who are newly appointed Church T children, an initial certification program has been School staff! And welcome back to those returning. developed in collaboration with the Orthodox Christian Teachers, you have been entrusted to pass on the Education Commission. It consists of one hour of ori- words of eternal life to the students. Directors, you entation by the pastor or church school director, and have been entrusted with facilitating the formation of the following courses (two hours each): Introduction to the church school, and all therein. Here is my message Teaching, Overview of Orthodox Theology, OCEC to all. Curriculum Orientation. One of the first steps, for all involved with Christian The certification is recommended but not mandato- education, is to set aside a time for prayer, and reading ry. A listing (to-date) of cities where trainings are of scripture, the Fathers or other inspirational scheduled is on the next page, with many more to Orthodox books. Consider the words of St. John as he come. Check also the OCEC site: www.orthodoxed.org. described his task as an evangelist: “. . . that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also The Department of Christian Education may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is newsletter is published in the months of with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ” (1 John September, December, February, and April. 1:3). Each of us is an evangelist. Each of us bears the The office is staffed from 9:00-3:00 Monday words of eternal life to those whom we teach. Only if through Wednesday. Phone (717) 747-5221. we are in touch with Our Lord and Savior — having FAX (717) 747-5832. E-mail: [email protected] spiritually “seen and heard” Him — will we be ade- Web page: www.antiochian.org/christianeducation quately prepared to guide our younger brothers and sis- ters into deeper fellowship with us. Each week, pray to the Holy Spirit and mention by Department of Christian Education name the students for whom you are responsible; or if Regional Representatives you are a Director, pray by name for each of your staff. St. Innocent, Apostle to America (under whose patron- Please contact the Regional Representatives for age the first text of the new OCEC series was placed), updates on trainings and other events in your penned a wonderful prayer. It ends: “Warm our hearts region. with Thy Spirit, and we shall joyfully and fervently go Eastern: Rev. George Alberts (724)684-5472 the way which Thou hast shown us.” The entire prayer Midwest: Robert Snyder (330)493-4029 is on the Church School Director page of our website. Western: Joseph Tershay (831)335-8350 In all our busi-ness, let’s not lose sight of the joy we Can-Am: Jacquelyn Fadel (716)282-8243 have received from the Holy Spirit! Southwest: Vasiliki (Billie) Oldziey (512)459-6264 May you be renewed and strengthened as you begin New England: Anna Timko-Hughes (978)686-3274 this year, Southeast: Betty Randolph (864)639-2204 Carole A. Buleza

September 2003 17 THE DEPARTMENT OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Certification Resource Reviews Resource Review Training Workshops

(See the OCEC website for a more comprehensive listing: www. ortho- doxed.org.) Please contact the churches listed for details and to register. All train- ings will include The Way, The Truth, and The Life.

Oklahoma City, OK August 16 St. Elijah Church The Twelve Great (405)755-7804 Feasts for Children Ottawa, ON Canada THE WAY, THE TRUTH, September 5 The Twelve Great Feasts for St. Elias Cathedral AND THE LIFE Children is a series of books written (613)738-2222 by Sister Elayne and illustrated by Produced by the Orthodox Bonnie Gillis. Each book explains Christian Education Commission, Bethlehem, PA the feast day in rhyming verse that the first text of the new series offers September 27 will both entertain and educate. The firm knowledge of the Orthodox St. Nicholas Church first page of each book contains the faith, and encourages spiritual matu- Bridle Path Rd troparion of the feast day and the rity. With an optional award compo- (610)867-0402 date on which it is celebrated. nent, lesson plans that offer cooper- The books now available are The ative learning options, and attention Kansas City, KS Nativity of Our Lord, The Meeting to multiple intelligence theory, the October 4 of Our Lord, The Theophany of Our program surpasses any Orthodox St. Basil the Great Lord, The Annunciation, The effort to date. (913)663-2200 Nativity of the Theotokos and The The student book, written at the Entrance of the Theotokos into the high school level, is comprised of Ligonier, PA Temple. Future books are expected Part I: Text, and Part II: Resource November 7-8 through 2004. Sections. Part I offers 24 four-page Antiochian Village These five-by-seven-inch paper- lessons with illustrations and graph- (724)238-3677 back books are small enough to fit ics that invite participation. Part II into a purse or tote bag to keep contains four resource sections: 1) Seattle, WA young children occupied in church. “Feast Days and Icons,” 2) “Saints,” To be announced The full-color illustrations will famil- 3) “Briefs,” and 4) “Glossary.” The St. Paul Church iarize the child with the imagery teacher manual provides lesson (425)771-1916 and themes associated with each plans for standard or cooperative feast. The older child will enjoy learning use, background reading Van Nuys, CA reading the simple, psalm-like excerpts from classic Orthodox To be announced poems. texts, and all required worksheets St. Michael Church The Twelve Great Feasts for and visual aids. A sample packet of (818)994-2313 Children series is available from pages from both books is available Conciliar Press, 900-967-7377, or by request from [email protected]. Wayne, NJ www.conciliar press.com. Several priests are planning to use To be announced Rosemary Shumski, The Way, The Truth and The Life for Holy Resurrection Church Administrative Assistant adult education this year, as well as (973)696-6572 Department of Christian for catechumen classes. The pro- Education gram is scheduled to be available this September. Check the OCEC website: www.orthodoxed.org for updates. CB

18 The Word THE DEPARTMENT OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION ws ResourceResource ReviewsReviews Resource Resource Reviews Reviews Resource Resource

“Sex Has The Bible in Felt My a Price Prayer Some years ago, we watched as Tag” our daughter and 17 other Journal preschoolers were enchanted by the How can telling of a Bible story with a felt A free pray- this be? This board. er journal for is so contrary The set comes with over 600 children? to what we pieces that include characters, Seemed too are led to objects, scenery and backgrounds. good to be believe! We Each piece is numbered for easy true when I hear on radio organizing. A teacher’s manual pro- was asked to and TV, and vides the Bible story and illustrates review this new resource available in movies and the setup of each scene. The felt is from International Orthodox magazines that, “Sex is great, it’s fun high quality and washable and the Christian Charities. But I was cer- and everybody is doing it!” So colors are vibrant. The figures come tainly wrong. It is true and it is more what’s this about a “price tag?” in two sizes. The smaller size is less than good. This question and many more are expensive and more than adequate. The IOCC Children’s Prayer answered in an hour-long video The cost is reasonable. Journal is a full-color, 12-month called “Sex Has a Price Tag.” Pam We use the characters to tell the booklet, which provides photos and Stenzel, a crisis pregnancy coun- Bible stories from our curriculum information about the countries that selor, uses her own history and and to illustrate feast day stories, benefit from the IOCC’s humanitari- experience to address the physical, saints’ lives and daily church life. an and self-help programs. The jour- emotional, and spiritual conse- We have found that this resource nal encourages gratitude to God, quences of having sex outside of engages the imagination of while asking children to pray for the marriage. preschool through middle school needs of the country featured that Pam addresses the emotional tur- students. They more easily grasp the month. In addition, a Bible verse, moil that teens go through after hav- concepts we teach and retain the quotation from the Church fathers, ing sex, and even more importantly, stories and lessons long after. and excerpts from the Divine what God has to say on the topic. I To order a catalog, call toll-free Liturgy make this an excellent tool found the teens truly interested in 800-541-9279 or visit their site at for helping children grow in the this video, because of Pam’s first- www. bettylukens.com. A piece of faith. A web link offers more about hand experience, candor, and con- advice: gather friends to help cut out the children of that country. vincing arguments. the pieces! The prayer journal is a window to As a mother, a registered nurse, the world for children age 7-12. The and Church School Director, I urge Mike and Kris Michalko making of school kits is a suggested every parent, pre-teen, and teen to St. Michael Orthodox Church service project for individuals as see this video, and not just once! It Geneva, New York well as church school groups, so the is available through Pam’s website children of other countries will ben- www.pamstenzel.com or by phoning efit from “prayer in action.” 800-488-1888 ext 210. I was impressed with the colorful Mary Ann Kourey and straightforward presentation, Church School Director which is inviting and informative. I St. George Orthodox Church am sure that you, and your children, Worcester, Massachusetts will be too. It’s available through the OCEC, www.orthodoxed.org. Leslie Atherholt St. John Chrysostom Church York, Pennsylvania

September 2003 19 THE DEPARTMENT OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

ORTHODOX INSTITUTE REGISTRATION FORM November 6-9, 2003 Antiochian Village

Name:______Phone: ______Address:______E-Mail: ______City: ______State/Province:______Zip: ______Parish:______Circle One: Teacher Church School Director Youth Worker Other

Check website for course information - http://www.antiochian.org/christianeducation/ Friday Nov. 7, 2002 Session I (Fri. 9:30-11:30 AM) ______Session II (Fri. 1:00-3:00 PM) ______Session III (Fri. 3:30-5:30 PM) ______

Saturday Nov. 8, 2002 Session IV (Sat. 10:00-11:30 AM) ______Session V (Sat. 1:00-3:00 PM) ______Session VI (Sat. 3:30-5:30 PM) ______

REGISTRATION AND ACCOMMODATIONS Non-Commuters Commuters (meals included with accommodations)* (includes lunch) Please Check Early Bird $40 ______$30/day Registration Fee Fri. ______Sat. ______Regular Registration Fee $50 ______$35/day (After Sept. 10) Fri. ______Sat. ______Total registration fee: ______

*Overnight Accommodations (includes three meals — breakfast, lunch, and dinner after the first overnight) Occupancy: Single $100 per night ______Double: $74 per night ______Thurs. ______Fri. ______Sat. ______

Total accommodations fee: ______

Total fees: ______VISA/Master Card/Discover______OR make check payable to Antiochian Village

NOTE: The Village will not provide transportation from Pittsburgh Airport, but will provide transportation from Latrobe Airport. If your final destination is Latrobe Airport and you need transportation, please contact the Village well in advance to make arrangements and check here ______. For ground shuttle service from Pittsburgh, contact Majesty Shuttle at 1-888-794-3400 as part of the Antiochian Village Group.

SEND FORM to: Antiochian Village c/o Orthodox Institute, 140 Church Camp Trail, Bolivar, PA 15923. Phone (724) 238-3677. DEADLINE: ALL RESERVATIONS DUE OCT. 24, 2003.

20 The Word An Arab-American at War

PHOTOS AND STORY BY SGT. FRANK N. PELLEGRINI — U.S. ARMY RESERVE PUBLIC AFFAIRS

OST U.S. SOLDIERS under Saddam Hussein. But they M traveling the road to don’t support this war – they just Baghdad look out their don’t think it’s America’s issue to windows in wonderment at the settle,” he said. “Fortunately, they ancient towns and ambling goat know what it is to be in the military. herds that dot the way north. For They’re anti-war without being anti- them, serving in the war in Iraq is soldier. They know soldiers don’t an introduction to an exotic, alien make the decisions. We just carry world, a way of life they’d barely them out.” imagined existed. For a sergeant at war, that means Not Army Sgt. Paul Abernathy. “I taking care of the soldiers under look and think, I have cousins who you, a job which Abernathy’s squad live just like this,” he said. The 23- says their unfailingly personable year-old Abernathy, a squad leader leader does exceedingly well. in the Bridgeport, W. VA–based “Sarge is always looking out for 459th Multi-Role Bridge Company, us,” said Pfc. Dustin Wazzelle. “He hails from Cuddy, PA, just outside really cares about how we’re doing. Pittsburgh. But his mother’s side of He’s our sergeant, but he’s also like the family is Syrian, and for our friend. That’s important when Abernathy, who has spent many a you’ve been going through the summer visiting with family and Sgt. Paul T. Abernathy, an Army Reservist things we have out here.” friends in Syria, Operation Iraqi from Cuddy, PA, serving in Iraq with the Certainly, the 459th’s road to Freedom is a collision of two worlds West Virginia-based 459th Multi-Role Baghdad has been a trip through he knows well. Bridge Company, turns his head to hear more than an exotic land; it has One is military service. “My moth- an order during a firefight in the town of been a halting, often grueling tour of er’s grandfather came to America in Al Gharraff in central Iraq. the sights and sounds of war – days 1917 to escape the oppression of the of death and destruction, nights of Ottoman Turks, who were ruling vigilance and fear. Not to mention Syria then,” Abernathy said. “He 23 days (and still counting) without didn’t speak a word of English, but a shower. These are the times when he understood the concept of free- nerves fray, tempers flare and dom, and because he loved America squads can fall apart, or bond he enlisted with the 10th Cavalry to together. fight in World War I of his own free Ask Abernathy what he’s proudest will. My grandfather served in the of accomplishing out here in the 9th Infantry Division in World War field, and the former Eagle Scout (“I II. My mother served in the 4th ID never did get my wilderness survival from 1975 to 1982. All my uncles badge, but I guess I got that out have served. I joined at 17 in high here,” he jokes) will tell you about school because I didn’t want to be one thing: every evening, before the the first to break that tradition. I sun goes down and soldiers go their thought I was taking the easy way separate ways to foxholes and sleep- out with the Army Reserve,” ing bags to begin the night’s guard- Abernathy said. He gestured at his duty rotations, he and all his eight surroundings, and laughed. “I guess soldiers sit down — on cots, on that didn’t turn out to be the case.” stools, in the dirt — and have their But as an Arab-American, dinner of MREs — together. Abernathy admits his service in this Army Sgt. Paul T. Abernathy keeps an eye “I think that’s really important,” war has divided some family hearts. on the perimeter, pulling security while the he said. “We just hang out, talk “They love America, and they know other members of his squad check on their about whatever’s on our minds. I how terrible it is for Iraqis to live vehicles and get some rest. think it helps keep everybody

September 2003 21 AN ARAB-AMERICAN

affects the way they live. I’ve CAR DONATIONS learned about ten choice words of Arabic.” ADVANCE WORK OF “And I know,” Berger said, “that IOCC the best reason why we’re here is for these kids we see waving to us by the side of the road, for these people J im Gabriel of Centerport, NY that Saddam Hussein has been hold- decided he’d seen enough of his ing down for so long.” 1995 Chrysler LeBaron. “It had Abernathy is nearing the end of 105,000 miles on it. I drove the car his enlistment, and he figures his 80 miles each day to work,” said time with the Army Reserve is Gabriel, who lives on Long Island almost done. He wants to put his and works in Manhattan. understanding of the Arab world and Then Gabriel had an idea. Instead its plight to use with a graduate of selling or trading in the car, he’d degree in international relations, donate it to charity. But to whom? and after that maybe the seminary. He thought of IOCC because of the (Abernathy is Christian – his moth- cross-country cycling event it held er’s maiden name is Cross, an in August 2002. “I was amazed at Americanization of Saliby, Aramaic what I saw last summer and what I Army Sgt. Paul T. Abernathy flashes a for “the crucified” – and he says he learned about IOCC — the amazing squinty-eyed smile during an informal pla- shares the Arab reverence for reli- good that IOCC does,” he said. toon meeting in a bivouac area in central gion.) Abernathy has been able to “This is a good way to give a signifi- Iraq. do his soldiers’ work without reser- cant donation to IOCC at relatively vation — keeping his squad well- little cost to yourself.” going.” trained, well-fed and moving up the The vehicle donation program has “I think he’s the best leader we road in their support mission is a become an increasingly popular way have,” said Spc. John Berger. “Out job that needs no cultural loyalty. for people to advance the mission of of the whole unit, our squad is the But this war, Abernathy said, has IOCC, the official humanitarian aid closest, and that’s because of him.” not always been an easy one for him agency of Orthodox Christians, Because of Abernathy’s back- to fight, and he hopes he can do his because of the program’s no-hassle ground, his soldiers also get an edu- job and get home to Pittsburgh with- donation process and potential tax cation — in where they are, what out firing a shot. benefit for contributors. they’re seeing, and what they’ll be “I’ve always believed in America, Working through an agent compa- facing as the 459th continues its and I understand what we’re trying ny, IOCC makes the arrangements journey north. He’s the company’s to do,” he said. “I know the reason to pick up car donations at no cost unofficial translator when an Iraqi innocents are being killed is the tac- to the donor. The title transfer and civilian approaches the convoy, its tics that the Iraqis are using in this donation receipt are handled at the unofficial strategist when it comes to war. But when I see people dead on time of pick-up. enemy behavior and its designated the side of the road, I can really Donors may receive a tax deduc- political analyst when news crackles imagine how they lived. It makes it tion for the full fair market value of over a BBC broadcast that Iran and very, very real, and sometimes I their vehicle. Contributors should Syria may be entering the war on wonder if it’s all worth it. consult with a financial advisor to Saddam Hussein’s side. “But I know that as scared as we learn how vehicle donations may Berger, who drives with his are in combat, it doesn’t approach benefit their tax situation. sergeant when the company’s 89- the fear that people live in their After a vehicle is donated to vehicle convoy is on the move, whole lives under Saddam Hussein’s IOCC, it is then sold at auction with recalls many a late-night conversa- regime,” Abernathy said. “Early on, the net proceeds directly benefiting tion on the road that’s opened his when we first crossed the border the agency’s various humanitarian eyes to the strange, history-soaked into Iraq, we stopped by the side of and self-help programs. land into which this war has the road to refuel. An old Bedouin To donate a car, fill out the online dropped him. walked up, and when he saw my form at www.iocc.org/cars or call “I sure know a lot more about face, he came up to me and said, toll-free 1-877-803-4622. Since ancient Mesopotamia than I did ‘Arab-American. Arab-American.’” 1992, IOCC has delivered more before,” he said. “I know the Garden “We exchanged a few words, and than $160 million in humanitarian of Eden was here, and the Tower of before he left, he pointed north and assistance in 23 countries, including Babel. I know that not everybody said to me, in Arabic, ‘Go get him. Lebanon, Iraq, Bosnia-Herzegovina, here is Muslim, but religion is Go get Saddam,’” Abernathy said. the Republic of Georgia and important to people here, and it “That made me feel good.” Ethiopia.

22 The Word June 2003 22 o

A Musical Journey DEPARTMENT OF SACRED MUSIC 35th Anniversary

MICHAEL G. FARROW, PH.D. VICE CHAIRMAN

HISTORY OF MUSIC IN THE ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ARCHDIOCESE EARLY ROOTS OF NORTH AMERICA

HE DEPARTMENT OF appear were issued by Archbishop books, a description of Byzantine T Sacred Music had its official Emanuel Abo-Hateb, whose 1926 hymnology, a pronouncing glossary beginning 35 years ago, in manuscript, donated by his niece, of Byzantine musical terms and a 1968, with the appointment by His Georgette Abo-Hateb, is still extant pronunciation guide of the translit- Eminence Metropolitan Philip Saliba at the Antiochian Village Heritage erated Greek texts. There are 45 of its first Chairman, Father James Center Library. Although it is cer- musical selections. C. Meena. However, it had its root tain that other clergy and musicians After the formation of the beginning as early as 1906 with the must have issued arrangements of Archdiocesan youth organization, publishing in English of the Service music in English, none are presently SOYO, in the 1940s the music Book of the Holy Orthodox-Catholic known to have survived. By 1936, came, of necessity, under the aus- Apostolic Church, by Isabel Archbishop Antony Bashir, sensing pices of SOYO, which appointed a Hapgood, which provided the first the increasing need for English in choir director each year to organize standardized text in English of the the music of the church, authorized the music for the Archdiocesan major church services, and laid the the use of English in the music of annual convention. SOYO became, groundwork for transliterated, trans- the church and asked a newly de facto, the “Music Department” lated, and composed music in the ordained convert, Rev. Michael G.H. and issued, in an informal manner, English language and allowed the Gelsinger of St. George, Niagara any new music. This was usually via priests and chanters, for the first Falls, NY, to put together a book of musical exchanges at the national time, to chant the service in four-part Orthodox music. Fr. and regional conventions and English. Gelsinger was a scholar of Greek through informal gatherings of the and included in his work Byzantine musicians at this time. Through TEXT TRANSLATIONS settings in four-part harmony with SOYO and the Archdiocesan translations in English based on the conventions, the music of the Arch- In general, the original and pre- meter of the Greek. In addition, he diocese became universal through- sent translations of the Antiochian included translations and adapta- out the parishes and certain pieces Orthodox Christian Archdiocese in tions of Russian choral composers. became “standardized.” Examples of North America were derived from In the next few years, Fr. Gelsinger’s music which were introduced at two early 20th century translations son, John, formed the first choir of that time and are still sung through- of the church services into English: the Archdiocese at St. George’s out the Archdiocese, even today, are the 1906 Hapgood book, which using the then unpublished manu- the Entrance Hymn by Archpriest relied heavily on the language of the scripts of his father. By 1939, Fr. Dmitri Razumovsky and the Hymn then-current Anglican Book of Gelsinger’s work was finished and to the Theotokos, by Dmitri Common Prayer; and the 1939 the first, professionally published Bortniansky. Service Book by Seraphim Nassar, a music book of the Archdiocese In the late 1940s, Fr. Michael translation of services from through- appeared as Orthodox Hymns in Simon, serving the parish of St. out the church year. Both of these English, a collection of four-part George, Paterson, NJ (later Little books are still in print and are Russian and Byzantine melodies still Falls, NJ), was searching for some- available from the Archdiocesan in use today and commonly referred one who could put the Byzantine bookstore. to as the “Blue Book” because of the chant so familiar to the many immi- pale blue color of its cover, with its grants and first generation parish- MUSIC TRANSLATIONS familiar triple-bar cross with a flow- ioners, into four-part choral music AND SETTINGS ering lily entwined. This book con- with a transliterated Arabic text. tains, in addition to the music, a The task fell to Professor Michael Based on existing documents, the brief description of many of the Hilko, choir director of the nearby earliest known musical works to most common church service St. John Carpatho-Russian Church

September 2003 23 o

DEPARTMENT OF SACRED MUSIC

in Perth Amboy, NJ. the loss of Arabic in the church the Divine Liturgy of St. John Professor Hilko wrote down the services, the English liturgy music is Chrysostom, by Peter I. Tschaikov- Byzantine melodies for the two still widely sung throughout the sky. This booklet highlighted the Arabic liturgies by listening to Fr. Archdiocese and much of it is stan- growth of the choirs of the Arch- Michael Simon for the first liturgy dard music, still appearing in our diocese, which now were able to and Rev. Wakim Dalack of St. convention and conference music sing the works of the greatest Nicholas Cathedral, Brooklyn, for settings. In order not to lose the Russian composers. Selections from the second and then writing down beautiful Byzantine melodies, the the works of Sergei Rachmaninov, the notes in Western musical nota- two Arabic liturgies and the eight Nikoli Rimsky-Korsakov, and other tion and harmonizing in four-parts, resurrectional tones have been com- great Russian composers of the 18th the resulting melody. Professor bined into one liturgy and have been to early 20th century were becom- Hilko also added the eight resurrec- adapted into English by Michael G. ing part of the usual repertoire of tional tones harmonized in four Farrow for future publication. Archdiocesan choirs during this parts according to Byzantine Also issued during the decade of period. Choir “contests” and “festi- melodies sung on the 78-rpm record the 1950s were two works of Fr. vals” were the norm at the Arch- set of Archbishop Samuel David of James Meena, the first, Hymns of diocese conventions. Large and Toledo, Ohio, as well as additional Praise (1955), containing Byzantine small choirs from throughout the hymns in Arabic transliteration in selections in English, in four-part Archdiocese took great delight in four parts, including the Paschal harmony of the eight resurrectional competitive singing at the SOYO Troparion, Christ is Risen, and the troparia, fourteen feast day troparia gatherings.

Hymn to the Theotokos from St. and two kontakia, one for Pre- Responding to requests for com- Basil’s Liturgy, In Thee Rejoiceth. He Nativity and another for the plete books of music containing then arranged a third liturgy, a Presentation of the Lord, as well as entire services other than the Divine simple setting based on Russian kontakia in the eight tones for Liturgy, Archbishop Bashir asked tones, but entirely in English. Ordinary Sundays. This publication Ray George, choir director at St. In 1950, Professor Hilko com- marked the first time such a large George in Detroit, to compile the pleted his task and Archbishop amount of Byzantine music was set two small booklets issued by the Bashir, continuing his support of the to four-part harmony in English. It Archdiocese in 1964, Resurrection English language, had the Arch- marked the beginning of what would Service and The Night of Great diocese publish Professor Hilko’s be a half-century of producing Friday, Matin Service of Great Three Divine Liturgies, two in Byzantine music in four-part har- Saturday. These two publications Arabic transliteration and one in mony that would encompass selec- contain four-part music in English English, including the resurrectional tions for all of the major services of set to traditional Byzantine and troparia and other hymns. Although the church. Slavonic melodies for these services this book, commonly called the The second publication, issued in and are still available from the “Yellow Book” after its bright yellow 1959 by the Archdiocese, was an Archdiocese. cover, has fallen into disuse due to English adaptation by Fr. Meena of Two years later, in 1966,

24 The Word o

DEPARTMENT OF SACRED MUSIC

Metropolitan Philip succeeded to the tion, and establishing the initial pro- psalte, Basil Kazan, to undertake office of Archbishop and, realizing grams, was transferred in 1972 to writing out in western musical nota- the pressing need to make the the large parish of St. George, tion, the Byzantine chant in English church services meaningful and rel- Cleveland, where his duties pre- for the entire church year. This evant to the younger generations cluded him from devoting the neces- loose-leaf music multi-volume set and to the many converts in the sary time to the growth of the includes 1) Vespers, 2) Matins, 3) church, immediately instituted pro- Department. Holy Week [2 volumes], 4) the grams for increasing the use of the In that same year, 1972, Ray Pentecostarion [3 volumes], 5) the English language in church music. George was appointed as the second Triodion [2 volumes], and 6) Hymns Also by 1968, SOYO had success- Chairman of the Department of of the Menaion. This massive pro- fully completed its task of forming Sacred Music, a position which he ject, organized and copied for publi- and supporting local parish choirs. held for 30 years until his death in cation by Ray George, would take Metropolitan Philip, due to the 2002. In his first year, he began issu- Mr. Kazan over 25 years to complete many new functions and duties ing in English, in loose-leaf form, and came to be known as the pressing on the Archdiocese in the many hymns of the church. In 1978, Byzantine Project. It would prove to realm of music, and the many and the Department issued “The Festal be the most important project in varied programs he envisioned, Music,” much of it composed by training generations of chanters, established, in 1968, the Depart- Fred Karam, Ph.D., the talented both cradle Orthodox and converts, ment of Sacred Music. The Rev. choir director at St. Elias in Ottawa, and unifying the chants throughout James Meena was appointed as its Canada, in four-part Byzantine har- the Archdiocese. Now chanters in

first Chairman. mony. Among the selections issued parishes as widely scattered as In 1969 the Archdiocese pub- were four feast day troparia, twelve Alaska, California, Texas, Florida lished the Standard Divine Liturgy, kontakia for Ordinary Sundays and and Massachusetts could chant the compiled and arranged by Fr. feast days, and fourteen hymns to same hymn together, to the same Meena. This publication contained the Theotokos for various feast days. melody and same text. This endeav- four-part arrangements in English of As the 1970s progressed, or gave rise to the formation of both Byzantine tones and Slavonic Metropolitan Philip realized that in Byzantine choirs, groups of individ- settings. Included in this publication order to preserve the Byzantine uals all chanting the same melody were musical selections for the chant, which was fast disappearing together. The largest of these choirs Divine Liturgy in Byzantine Tones 1, in the parishes due to the deaths of are the antiphonal choirs of St. 2, 5 and 8; the Many Years for a the older, immigrant chanters and Philip Church, Souderton, PA, under Bishop; the Hierarchical Trisagion, the difficulty of instructing new the direction of Khourieh Joyce as well as various selections from chanters in the fast-growing Black, who have been singing since the Slavic tradition. Archdiocese, a program would have 1980 the entire eleven volumes of Fr. Meena, having completed his to be instituted to preserve this this music, adding each volume as it task of establishing the Department ancient and beautiful chant. With was issued over the years. of Sacred Music on a firm founda- that in mind, he asked the proto- In 1979 the Camp opened at the

September 2003 25 o

DEPARTMENT OF SACRED MUSIC

Antiochian Village and a need for the second site in the Western USA, Chairman of the Department to music for the children to sing the in California for 2003. assist the Chairman with the church services became immediate. With the late 20th century trend expanded goals set for the 21st cen- Rt. Rev. John Namie, the first of family participation in a myriad of tury. Under the leadership of James Director of the Antiochian Village, events, attendance at choir rehear- Meena, the Department of Sacred and himself a Byzantine musician, sals slowly declined throughout the Music immediately was expanded. composed the Byzantine music for Archdiocese and the need for con- In less than two years, a number of the Divine Liturgy, Vespers, and gregational singing became appar- new endeavors have been estab- Daily and Sunday Matin Services ent. Further necessitating this need lished. and issued it in booklet form. was the establishment of so many Recognizing the need to accom- Fifteen years later, Michael Farrow small missions, in the last quarter of modate a growing cadre of com- compiled the 1993 edition, in which the 20th century, where the forma- posers, James established an additional selections were added to tion of a choir was not feasible. This Editorial Board, with Al Mamary the services as well as additional form of ancient singing was familiar appointed as Administrator. The hymns and extra-liturgical hymns. A to many of the converts to the faith purpose of this board is to gather all recording of the music in the 1993 and requests to compile a music newly composed music for review edition was made in 1995. In the book for the pew were received by and adherence to Archdiocesan and present edition of 1997, the the Archdiocese with favor. An ini- Departmental guidelines, to assist Antiochian Archdiocese congrega- tial booklet (1997) containing the new composers in the music goals of tional liturgy arranged by Fr. Elias Byzantine musical settings along the Department and Archdiocese Bitar and Laila Corey has been sub- with the text of the Divine Liturgy, and to encourage them in compos- stituted for that of the former edi- edited by Fr. Elias Bitar and Laila ing new music. tions, the Vespers and Matins have Corey, was published by the Guidelines for computerizing been revised and additional hymns Archdiocese for congregational use music were issued to assure a stan- have been added. This easy-to-use in parishes. The music follows the dardization of all Archdiocesan booklet has been invaluable in traditional Byzantine tones for the music. Relations with sister Ortho- teaching the children to chant the standard hymns of the Liturgy. A dox jurisdictions were put on an Byzantine tones in English. second booklet featuring alternate official basis. An e-mail system was In 1984, Metropolitan Philip real- melodies in preparation to allow instituted whereby all priests, choir ized that a more formal format for congregations a choice of different directors, and head chanters at all teaching the musicians of the selections of music. 250 parishes are contacted several Archdiocese was needed. With Ray As the decade of the 1990s pro- times per month with announce- George at the helm, along with gressed, Ray George established a ments and new music downloads. James Meena and with Fr. Joseph Department of Sacred Music This e-mail system reaches Allen as an advisor, he established Committee, composed of musicians Antiochian parishes in the USA, the first of an on-going series of throughout the Archdiocese. It was Canada, the United Kingdom, music instruction classes originally the function of this Committee to Australia and New Zealand. An edi- known as the Choir Directors help establish the goals of the tor, Dr. William Attra, was appointed Seminar and later changed to the Department and to aid in their pro- to coordinate articles to The WORD Sacred Music Institute (SMI). The mulgation. By the turn of the 21st magazine. first sessions took place in 1985 at century, with Ray’s health being With 98 years of experience since the Antiochian Village and were frail, Michael Farrow assisted Ray in 1905, at 35 years of age, the Depart- geared primarily to choir directors. the organization of the SMIs and ment of Sacred Music has estab- To emphasize its importance, the upon the sudden death of Ray in lished itself as a leading example Metropolitan required each parish in 2002, continued in an interim posi- and conduit of musical information the Archdiocese to sponsor their tion until, in April of that year, and knowledge not only for the choir director’s attendance at these Metropolitan Philip chose a young, Antiochian Archdiocese but for sessions. Over the years, this talented, professional musician, other jurisdictions as well. Institute has expanded and now James Meena, as the third Chairman brings together instructors, lectur- of the Department of Sacred Music. ers, musicians, choir members, James is the son of the first choir directors and clergy for an Chairman of the Department, Fr. exchange of music and knowledge. James C. Meena, and is the General In the early 1990s, chanters and Director and Principal Conductor of chanting classes were added. Each Opera Carolina, in Charlotte, NC. year the SMI met at the Antiochian Reflecting the growth of the music Village and by the year 2003, it had program within the Archdiocese, expanded to two sites, one in the Metropolitan Philip appointed East, at the Antiochian Village, and Michael Farrow as the first Vice

26 The Word MARRIAGE AND PARISH FAMILY MINISTRIES DEPARTMENT OF MARRIAGE AND PARISH FAMILY MINISTRIES

KH. MAGGIE HOCK

HERE IS SO MUCH EMPHA- including both parents. Emotional Great Vespers and limiting our T sis today on dysfunctional and developmental needs are also activities so that the family has time families that it would be help- being met in the family. A healthy to prepare for Divine Liturgy. ful to consider instead what consti- balance between dependence and Attending Feast Day Liturgies and tutes a healthy functioning family autonomy is crucial to the stage in supporting special parish events are within an Orthodox context. Our which the family is. For example, a all part of a practicing Orthodox first chal- young family has important on-going lifestyle. This is crucial because it is lenge is that dependency needs in the caretaking the preparation and what we actual- we are of children as compared to the less- ly do that models for our children Eastern ened demands of a family whose off- our priorities and establishes in Christians spring are nearly full-grown. The them a routine that will provide a living in a healthy family allows for social and foundation for their lifetime of Western sexual training appropriate again to understanding the discipline and culture. the age and emotional development priority that it takes to make moral Orthodoxy of the children. Most importantly, and spiritual choices that will mat- has always the family is the soil out of which ter for eternity. Naturally, a healthy adapted its expression to the con- the character and moral develop- family routine must include unhur- text in which it is practiced, while at ment of the children are formed. ried family dinners, unpressured the same time maintaining our Perhaps this is where we are most at time for communication and setting ancient tradition. In our American conflict with our surrounding cul- aside time for the nurturing culture, we have to contend with ture. Many in our culture today sug- required for each family member to our fast-paced lifestyles, immediate gest that children should be raised maintain balance. demands on our time and endless in a moral vacuum, only to assume Sometimes, because of internal or distractions. But if we are to under- that they will be able to make the environmental stressors, families get stand St. Paul’s admonition regard- right moral and spiritual choices out of balance. Not just our individ- ing marriage, “Let each individual without the foundation or knowl- ual family but our parish family can among you also love his own wife as edge to do so. Our Orthodox faith face these struggles as well. This is himself; and let the wife see to it protects us here in giving the family when our Orthodoxy functions to that she respect her husband” (Eph all the tools necessary not only for a bring us back to center through the 5:33), we see a clear formula for a healthy functioning family but also help of the practice of our faith, sup- healthy union. This means in a very for eternal salvation. port from the clergy, counsel from practical sense that someone has to We live in an age in which it is not spiritual fathers and mothers and be home to make the kibbee or the popular to say that there are moral trained professionals. meatloaf and someone else has to absolutes and one true Faith, but we Remember, Orthodoxy is prac- take time to cut the grass. Our level are called to believe and confess ticed within a context. The richness of intimacy in married life is in fact exactly this if we are living as of the prayers in its services, the dependent upon the level of equal Orthodox Christians. The practical communal parish family life and the effort that is applied to it. Some spir- side of this lifestyle is that it takes Sacraments which impart such itual fathers and mothers have com- working at it everyday and confess- comforting grace during times of dif- mented that the more we love ing with our lives what we profess as ficulty are unknown to struggling Christ and his Church, the more we our faith. That means marking our families outside of the Orthodox will pay attention to the smallest, calendars with the events of the context. They struggle with intense seemingly insignificant details of our Church before other events crowd loneliness, isolation, and lack of lives in serving one another. out our time for nurturing the spiri- spiritual direction. We Orthodox, if Let’s consider some additional fac- tual life. Adjustments will need to be we align our priorities to care for tors found in a healthy family life. made here by some families. For our families, will have the peace of To say that something functions is example, this may mean saying no Christ which always brings health simply to say that it works. A func- to sports teams that require Sunday and balance and will make our fami- tioning family is a place where more morning practices and games. It lies an example that this world is than just survival occurs; growth is may require planning our Saturday hungry to embrace. also visible among all the members, evenings around attendance at

September 2003 27 GOD LOVES A CHEERFUL GIVER

The following is an edited version of the eulogy given by Father Thomas Zain, Dean of N SATURDAY EVENING, St. Nicholas Cathedral go to church with her uncle and O June 14, 2003, St. Nicholas of Brooklyn, NY, in memory of learn to sing many of our hymns by Cathedral in Brooklyn and Hooda Germack. Mrs. Germack listening to him. In fact, when I saw the entire Archdiocese lost one of its was the widow of the late her on Thursday morning, the last greatest benefactors. Mrs. Hooda John Germack, day in which there was any commu- Germack, born in Jaffa, Palestine, known as “the Pistachio King.” nication, we sang together “Inne ana passed “through the eye of a needle” Together they owned the famous abdokee — To thee, the champion at 98 years old and entered into the Zenobia Pistachio Company leader,” which was one of her kingdom of heaven. Where does one for many years. favorite hymns. Her faith was stead- begin to talk about the life of this fast to the point that even at 98 remarkable woman? We years old and almost com- are all too familiar with pletely bound to a wheel- her generosity to those in chair, she made every need, to our churches, effort to attend the Divine seminaries, and commu- Liturgy each and every nity. Most, if not all of us Sunday and to visit the here, have been touched many churches she loved either directly or indirect- so much. I often laugh ly by her love and gen- when I compare people erosity. I could stand here like Hooda to those who for hours and speak of her have small ailments or countless donations to St. inexcusable excuses about Nicholas Cathedral of why they cannot make it Brooklyn, St. George to church. Cathedral of Coral Gables, Hooda’s life journey St. Philip Church in Ft. would take her many Lauderdale, Bravo places, from the shores of Volunteer Ambulance, St. the Mediterranean in Vladimir’s Seminary, the Palestine to the shores of Antiochian Village, the North Sea in London Lutheran Hospital, etc. where she was educated However, to me that as a child, from the warm would be repeating some- waters of the Caribbean in thing all of us already Cuba to the cold winters know and, as St. Paul of Detroit and finally to often reminded us, we are Brooklyn, New York, the saved by our faith, not by place she would call home our works. Therefore, let for the majority of her life. us talk for a moment While she gave to people about the faith of Hooda and institutions all over Germack. I truly believe the world, Brooklyn was that it was her faith that her first love, the place made her give the vast she called home. Brooklyn amount of money she was the place she came gave because, as St. James back to, the place where says in his epistle, “Faith she wanted to pass from without works is dead.” Hooda Germack this life into life eternal. Aunt Hooda’s faith was +1905-2003+ As a priest, I can tell like a rock. From her you that Hooda loved, I childhood in Jaffa, she was reared in think more than anyone else, the the life of the Church. She would clergy. Having no children of her often tell the story of how she would own, she made the clergy and semi-

28 The Word GOD LOVES A CHEERFUL GIVER narians her adopted children. There was hardly a week that would pass that she was not taking one of us to FOUR-R’S OFFERED AT lunch, giving one of us a gift, responding to one of our many requests for a donation for the ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE church or talking to one of us on the phone. Her annual visits to the sem- THIS FALL inarians at St. Vladimir’s Seminary were one of the highlights of her year. Her love for Christ and His Holy Church was expressed by her ENEWAL, REFLECTION, cation services for St. Thekla and St. love for the institutions that the R Refreshment, and Relaxa- Raphael, which will be held at the church sponsored, like the tion … That is what shrines at the Village Camp. Seminary, the Antiochian Village, Antiochian Village’s Saint Thekla The pilgrimage schedule has been our respective parishes and the and Saint Raphael Pilgrimage from greatly enriched with eight different clergy themselves. September 19-21, 2003 are all about worship services at various times in Hooda’s generosity did not, how- this fall. Mother Christophora, this the schedule. Mother Christophora ever, stop there. Her great faith com- year’s pilgrimage leader, will bring a will discuss “Busy Lives, Busy pelled her to look beyond her first mystical approach to the question of Breaks” on Friday evening and “Life love, the Church, to others in need. living the Christian life, exploring Before and After Death” on Saturday Just as Christ commanded us in salvation, suffering, spiritual life, the afternoon. Fr. Michael Nasser will Matthew 25 to clothe the naked, mystery of death and the Kingdom present “Who Is St. Thekla? Who Is feed the poor, etc., Aunt Hooda put of Heaven. Other changes for this St. Raphael?” on Saturday after- her faith into concrete action by year’s pilgrimage are that all wor- noon. Saturday evening, a session contributing to many local charities ship, sessions, meals, and activities entitled “Ask Abounas and Saidna” like Bravo Ambulance, the Guild for will be in the Village’s Conference & will occur. Exceptional Children, the Syrian Retreat Center except for the suppli- The weekend also includes a Ladies Aid Society, area hospitals and more. It says in the Gospel that, “It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heav- en.” Today, I can say with a great deal of certainty that a rich lady, not only materially rich, but rich in character, love and faith, passed through the eye of a needle and entered into the kingdom of heaven. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. You have touched all of our lives and we will all miss you very much. Fr. Thomas Hopko, while dean of St. Vladimir Seminary, said of Mrs. Germack, “‘Aunt Hooda’ is one of the leading philanthropists among Orthodox Christians known to us … in the last quarter century. The word philanthropist means literally a ‘friend of human beings.’ Hooda Germack surely fits this definition. She belongs to the blessed list of wealthy believers in Church history who have used their means for the good of others.” May she be an example to all of us and may her memory be eternal! Burial site of St. Raphael, Antiochian Village.

September 2003 29 ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE

Please fill out registration form below and return. Feel free to copy the registration form so that you have the schedule of activities or to share with a friend.

Registration form: SS. Thekla & Raphael Pilgrimage September 19-21, 2003

Name ______Street Address ______City ______State______Zip______Phone Number______e-mail address ______Arrival Date and Time______Departure Date and Time______Number of adults and names______Cost for TWO nights, 4 meals, snack & sessions: Single $188 # ______X $188 = $ ______Double $130/person # ______X $130 = $ ______Triple $110/person # ______X $110 = $ ______Quad $102/person # ______X $102 = $ ______TOTAL Registration $ ______Cost for ONE night, 3 meals, snack & sessions: Single $108 # ______X $108 = $ ______Double $79/person # ______X $ 79 = $ ______Triple $69/person # ______X $ 69 = $ ______Quad $65/person # ______X $ 65 = $ ______TOTAL Registration $ ______Shrine to St. Thekla, Antiochian Village. Late Registration Fee after September 10, 2003: # _____ X $20.00 = $ _____ Total Late Fees “spiritual break,” a pause in your busy routine to Cost for Commuter Meals: replenish your spirit. Attendees will have time in the Commuters may purchase meal tickets for $12.00 Pilgrimage schedule to take a hike on any of our trails, per meal & must also register in advance for food stroll the grounds at their leisure, or sit in the preparation. Meditation Garden or on the Meditation Trail while emptying the mind, reflecting, contemplating, or sim- Commuter ply relaxing. Some will choose to read, write or journal, # _____ X _____ meals X $12.00 = nap, or catch up on correspondence while others $ _____ Total Commuter Meal Fees explore in the library or fellowship with friends or new Circle Which Meals: Fri. Dinner Sat. Breakfast acquaintances. Opportunities abound to meet the Lord Sat. Dinner Sun. Brunch in His Word or in prayer, meditation or confession. “We hope we’ve taken the hectic pace away so partic- Add from Above: ipants leave the Village renewed and refreshed in body, Total Registration Fees TWO Nights $ ______mind and spirit,” said Father Michael Massouh, ONE Night $ ______Executive Director for Antiochian Village Heritage and Total Late Fees $ ______Learning Center. “You may ask, ‘Why should I attend a Total Commuter Meal Fees $ ______pilgrimage at the Village?’ ” he added. “Because GRAND TOTAL $ ______Antiochian Village is a spiritual oasis overflowing with Register by fax at 724-238-2102 or mail to: information about Antiochian history and heritage in Antiochian Village, 140 Church Camp Trail, Bolivar, PA our museum, library, chapels, and shrines. The Village 15923. Commuters are welcome but need to make balances that with Antiochian friendships, thoughtful meal reservations and purchase meal tickets in spots, fellowship spaces, hotel-style lodging, and plenti- advance. For further information, call 724-238-3677 or ful meals in the dining room to provide a Four-R’s expe- email: avcenter@ antiochian.org. rience from which anyone can benefit,” he concluded. Register by mail or fax only with payment by check or credit card. Check Enclosed _____

30 The Word THE ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS Reflecting on ray — AND THE ORDER!

By FATHER JOSEPH ALLEN, NORTH AMERICAN CHAPLAIN

T A RECENT MEETING OF been given. We have made an on- same “joy” that we as members of A the Governing Council of the going pledge to work together in The Order have realized in our Order of St. Ignatius, Dan realizing the many tasks that lie giving. Abraham did a little “exegesis” on before us in this new millennium — That Ray Rishwain is indeed an St. Matthew, Chapter 25 and, com- and there are many! This does not, example of this “joy” can be seen bining it with the message of Holy of course, mean that we are superior simply in the statistics. During his Pascha, projected a message which to other Orthodox Christians. watch: well describes the central meaning Rather, it means that through our • There has been an increase of The Order in general, and of the commitment, through our Order, we from 2,100 in 1999 when he began, work of the Immediate Past Chair- struggle to set an example. What is to almost 2,900 as of this writing man, Dr. Raymond (that’s a record!). Rishwain, over these • There has been the past four years in par- creation of the Youth ticular. Liaison Committee, What did Dan say that which encourages provoked this article? young adults to join The How does what he said Order. The target in- describe our efforts? cludes the young people Dan began: who have benefited “Jesus commanded us greatly from the pro- that ‘what you do to the jects undertaken by The least of your brethren Order. you do to me’ (Matthew • The Area Fellow- 25). Further, when he ship Chapters contin- appeared to his disci- ued at an increased rate ples after the Resur- to sponsor activities in rection, he blessed Presentation is made to Dr. Raymond Rishwain by Metropolitan Philip and their area/region and those ‘who believe yet Vice Chairman Edward Assile. contribute to local do not see, and have not charities in the name of touched.’ ” this example? It is an example that The Order, e.g., clothing drives, mis- His point was that these two scrip- refuses to “settle,” that is, to settle sions, “camperships,” etc. These tural messages, when combined, for “as little as possible,” to settle for take place in addition to the general send the following message, one the minimum, to settle for that work of The Order on the which characterizes, at once, Ray which is merely our “duty.” Instead, Archdiocesan level, well known by Rishwain and The Order. Dan fol- we push beyond those limits, as all of us. lowed with the summarizing point: inspired by Our Lord’s words: Yes, Ray Rishwain’s watch was “Blessed are you, the members of “When you have done all those very rich, but one can be sure that if the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch, things which are required of you, asked, Ray would say, “What’s the who in secret do unto the least of you should say, ‘I am only an big deal; I’m only an unprofitable the brethren that you cannot see, unprofitable servant, because I have servant because I have only done cannot touch, and most likely do only done what is my duty to do’ ” what is my duty to do.” This is the not know; yet believe that God will (Matthew 17:20). attitude which portrays the work of combine our individual gifts for the No, The Order is not willing to the entire Order of St. Ignatius of benefit of those who need it most!” “settle” for the minimum; no, Ray Antioch, and that attitude marked What does all this mean for our Rishwain was not willing to “settle” Ray’s tenure as North American Church, our Faith, our Archdio- for the minimum. Thus, the exam- Chairman. cese? We who are members of The ple has been set for so many others If you would like more informa- Order have taken on something very in our parishes, who, if we approach tion about The Order, please contact special: a lifetime commitment to without arrogance, but with love Arlene Assile: 201-871-1355 or Jesus Christ and the gospel we have and grace, may also experience the [email protected]

September 2003 31 COMMUNITIES IN ACTION COMMUNITIES IN ACTION

worship. we embarked upon our Eastern Region Fall Delegates’ Meeting Nearly 30 years ago, dis- journey. October 24-26, 2003 cussion of building our We are now near the end Antiochian Village Heritage and Learning Center own new church began. of construction, and all the Hosted by St. Mary Church Many years and many dis- community is eagerly Johnstown, PA cussions passed; however, awaiting the opening of For reservations: 724-238-3677 that dream never came to our new sanctuary. Metro- fruition until now. Our politan Philip has gracious- vision was shared by every ly agreed to consecrate our Midwest Region Fall Delegates’ Meeting heart of the parish. We new home on the weekend October 23-26, 2003 were united in thought, of October 17-19th, 2003. (Clergy only on October 23) word, and deed. Under the We invite all to come to El Theme: Living as Children of God/ able and encouraging lead- Paso for our wondrous cel- Nurturing our Missions ership of our parish ebration. Information re- Hosted by St. Elias Church priests, Fr. Jehad Michael garding the consecration Sylvania, OH and assistant Fr. Robert can be obtained by calling Clarion Hotel, Toledo, OH Bethoney, fundraising the church office at 915- efforts were initiated and 532-7845.

Southwest Region Fall Delegates’ Meeting October 17-18, 2003 Hosted by St. Elijah Church Oklahoma City, OK

Western Region Fall Delegates’ Meeting October 24-26, 2003 Hosted by St. Michael Church Van Nuys, CA Airtel Plaza Hotel (less than one mile from church)

than fifty years ago, when ST. GEORGE, the original founders of EL PASO, TX our Orthodox community gathered to play cards and visit. They decided we “Take heed now; for the needed a church and gath- LORD hath chosen thee to ered the money to pur- build a house for the sanc- chase an old Presbyterian tuary: be strong, and do church, now designated an it” (I Chronicles 28). historical site. There had his has been our slo- been no Antiochian Ortho- gan in El Paso, Texas dox church in the entire forT the last four years, as region until that time. A we purchased land, sought collection was taken from out the perfect architect, the generous community planned diligently, and and St. George Antiochian finally began building our Orthodox Church in El new place of worship. Paso was purchased, Our dream began more remodeled and opened for Architects’ rendering, St. George, El Paso, TX

32 The Word COMMUNITIES IN ACTION

Bread. Each child made Spiritual Advisors, Father his/her individual loaf Constantine, Father John, which they stamped with and Father Basil, who were the prosphora seal. To fully there to enlighten us understand the meaning of throughout the week. Holy Bread, the children We would like to take received information on its this opportunity to thank liturgical purpose. Five everyone who helped dur- loaves are used. With the ing this beautiful week of completion of the Holy study: our Spiritual Advi- Bread, the children contin- sors, teachers, coordina- ued their studies by mak- tors, teens, parents, and ing a diskos. Pieces from last but not least the chil- each loaf are removed by dren who blessed us with the Priest and placed on their presence, smiles, and the diskos. The diskos and wonderful attitude. Holy Bread are then cov- ered along with the Chalice until Holy DEGREES St. Elijah Vacation Bible School Communion. We completed our week AWARDED We were blessed by hav- of Bible study by doing a “OUR DIVINE LITURGY ing 98 students enrolled large chalk mural. Each BROUGHT TO LIFE” this year. From beginning class selected a part of the ittsburgh Theological to end, it was a week full of Divine Liturgy and illus- Seminary awarded enjoyment, enrichment, trated it on the mural. The theP Doctor of Ministry 2003 VACATION BIBLE and camaraderie. The mural is on display in the degree to three Antiochian SCHOOL AT ST. ELIJAH, smiles on the faces of the Church Hall. Orthodox priests at the OKLAHOMA CITY, OK children and the adults St. Elijah’s 2003 Vaca- May 22 graduation cere- told it all. How wonderful tion Bible School was cer- monies. Fr. Terence Baz very Sunday morning, it was to present each tainly an enriching experi- (Syracuse, NY) completed Orthodox Christians child with a Bible which ence to all of us. We were his doctoral work on An allE over the world go to they covered in gold and blessed by having Christie Orthodox Christian church for the celebration adorned with an icon. This Akin, who started each Ecology and Theology of of the Divine Liturgy. St. was done so that it would morning with a smile and a Creation. The project and Elijah’s 2003 Vacation Bible resemble the Holy Gospel song. Words can never ex- paper of Fr. Joseph Francis School celebrated through- which reminds us that the press our gratitude to our Gentile (Melville, NY) is out the week by studying only way to enter God’s our beautiful Liturgy. We kingdom is by following were blessed by having a His Word. We continued wonderful activity book our liturgy studies by mak- which helped and inspired ing a copper embossed each and every one of us to icon and faith votives used understand the words in a place of worship. So “Blessed is the kingdom of that each child would the Father, and of the Son know that they are special and of the Holy Spirit, now in their own way, they also and ever, and to the ages of made “God Made Me ages.” The boys and girls Special” magnets. They learned that the Kingdom also made “misbabahs” of God is all of the Angels (prayer beads), and and Saints in Heaven and stained glass key chains. all of the people of earth All of these projects were who truly love and follow packed to take home in Him. When we celebrate their new St. Elijah 2003 the Divine Liturgy, we do VBS duffel bags. not celebrate it by our- We continued our “Wor- selves, but with everyone in shiping in the Kingdom of Fr. Terence Baz. Fr. Donald Shadid and Fr. Joseph Gentile are God’s kingdom. God” by making Holy awarded Doctor of Ministry degrees.

September 2003 33 COMMUNITIES IN ACTION titled Returning to of being attacked, beaten THE PEOPLE SPEAK … Spiritual Direction: A ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN or stabbed. Many prisoners Continued from Page 35 Priest’s Guide to Pastoral PRISON MINISTRY face the sadness of fear, Counseling as a Hospital isolation and alienation. The Administration of the Chaplain. Fr. Donald E. Our Lord appealed to Orphanage of Saint Shadid (Johnstown, PA) his year St. George His followers to visit Him Pantalaymon for Girls explored Living the Bap- Cathedral in Worces- in prison. Through this We have received from tismal Life After the Water ter,T MA contacted this ministry we have the joy of Bishop Ghattas Hazim, the and Oil Have Dried: ministry to offer some making a difference in the Patriarchal Vicar, a contri- Spiritual Renewal in the unique and much needed life of a hungry soul. One bution for the Orphanage of Parish Through Living help for the Orthodox of our parishioners wrote Saint Pantalaymon in One’s Baptismal Covenant. Christian Prison Ministry. I to us and said: Damascus, a check via the The program of study have often said, “Little is “I do not know what I Archdiocese of North includes three years of much when God is in it.” would do without the con- America in the amount of coursework, followed by And this saying came true tact of the Orthodox $5,000.00 from the An- implementation of a doc- from the labor of the Christian Ministry. Your tiochian Orthodox Christian toral project and the writ- Sunday School of St. weekly letters and consis- Women of North America. ing of a major paper. George Cathedral. tent contact have helped Thank you. Pittsburgh Seminary, affili- Currently, we mail to me believe that I am not ated with the Presbyterian 400 prisons weekly. We alone. I have made an The Church (USA), has con- also provide catechetical Iconostasis with the icons Orthodox ducted the D.Min. program and other helps to prison- you sent to me and I pray World with an Eastern Christian ers to bring the saving all the hours … including Focus in partnership with grace of Christ to those Compline. Your pastoral the Antiochian Orthodox who are in prison. As you care has made me want to NPR COMMENTATOR Christian Archdiocese for can guess our mailing live the life of a Christian, TO SPEAK AT almost ten years. A new costs are astronomical. even in here where EDUCATION DAY class will begin in May Every letter we send is hypocrisy is a very grave 2004, with most of the required to go first class. sin. I hope to help you the RESTWOOD, NY — St. courses being taught at the Many of those who are in way that you have helped CVladimir’s Seminary Antiochian House of prison spend most of their me when I get out.” will host the 34th annual Studies. For further infor- time on lockdown. Due to The children of St. Orthodox Education Day mation contact Dr. Charles the violent and fearful George inspired me with on Saturday, October 4, Hambrick-Stowe at Pitts- atmosphere of many pris- their concern and passion. 2003. The annual event burgh Theological Semi- ons, numerous prisoners I would like to invite all draws scores of people from nary at 412-362-5610 ext. write us to say that they those who would like to the tri-state area and 2112 or by e-mail at cham- would rather be locked make the difference in the beyond for a day of wor- [email protected]. down than risk the chance life of a prisoner to consid- ship, fellowship, education, er making a gift to this and entertainment. Guests ministry. Whether it is will enjoy foods from many through a stamp, a mone- lands, a children’s booth, tary gift or your personal and specialty exhibits. prayers, you can be This year’s theme is assured that a gift to this “Orthodox Tradition Yes- ministry will be used to terday and Today.” The brighten the life of those event’s featured speaker we minister to. Thank you will be Frederica for your care and concern Mathewes-Green, com- for this … your ministry. mentator on National For more information, Public Radio and highly contact V. Rev. Fr. David acclaimed author. After- Ogan, PO 1600, Elk Grove, noon workshops on sub- CA 95759, (916) 714- jects ranging from iconolo- 3455. gy, liturgy and patristic theology to developing a parish website and the challenge of sexual abuse, Saidna Joseph blessing Very Rev. Fr. David Ogan during his ele- will explore the various vation to the Archpriesthood Jan. 26, 2001. aspects of the day’s theme.

34 The Word THE PEOPLE SPEAK …

THE PEOPLE SPEAK …

Dear Editor: Dear Sayidna Philip, Metropolitan Philip, them not only spiritual It was with great plea- Greetings in the Name of Firstly I kiss your right care but also medical assis- sure that I read of the Our Lord and Savior Jesus hand asking for your tance and food every day. progress in completing the Christ! Apostolic and Paternal We try to keep a family Old Testament for Ortho- I am writing to thank Blessings. environment that those dox Study Bible enthusi- you for all of the support Your Eminence, I would children don’t find in their asts. Our parish weekly you have given to me and like to inform you that own houses. We fight to Bible study group has been to my family over the past Metropolitan Kirilos teach them love, to seed in using the current New three years since I entered Doumat has received a their hearts moral and Testament and Psalms Holy Cross Seminary. It check for $5,000 (five Christian values, to edu- Bible since its inception. was a blessing to represent thousand dollars) and con- cate them, because in Our church, although the Antiochian Archdio- sidering the situation of these current times a man small, has purchased many cese here on campus, and our institution, he trans- without education and val- Orthodox Study Bibles we have fond memories of ferred that check to us in ues is a man without over the years. We give our time spent at this order to continue our future. We are obligated to them as gifts to all our school. I am also very social work. It will help us leave that building and are youth, converts and to grateful for the continuous to remodel an old house moving to a house that those celebrating any sig- financial assistance we that will be a center to needs repairs. nificant event. Our study received all three years of assist about 150 children Again, I want to thank group is called “The my schooling. It certainly in social danger. As you you and the distinguished Grazing Sheep” and we gave us peace of mind know, Argentina is facing Antiochian Women and certainly do graze on knowing that we had little the worst crisis of her his- pray God to keep you in many topics during our to worry about when it tory and we are aware, as peace. Asking for your wonderful time together. came to providing for our Antiochian Orthodox be- blessings, We laughingly tell others family and paying off the lievers, that we must help Yours in Christ, that we even learn a lot necessary bills. For this, because those children, Archimandrite Michel about the Bible during we extend our thanks. whose parents have been Boghos that time. That is the Finally, I would like to very affected by this crisis, General Vicar truth. God’s Word has thank you for allowing me have no place to develop Archdiocese of Argentina come alive to many, as has the privilege to serve the and grow as human beings. the Orthodox Faith. people at All Saints I would like to thank The Administration of the By the way, grateful Mission in Hingham, MA, through you the Orphanage of St. Gregory thanks to Fr. Gillquist for with the hopes and prayers Antiochian Women who for Boys the excellent article on that it will continue to are always ready to give We have received from evangelism. I copied it and grow and to thrive as a help to those who are in Bishop Ghattas Hazim, it will form the base of vibrant community in the need. Metropolitan Kirilos Patriarchal Vicar, a contri- more wonderful discussion Lord, and for my recent sends to them his thanks bution to the Orphanage of (grazing) and edification at appointment to St. Mary and blessings. St. Gregory for Boys in our Bible study. Basilica in Livonia, Our project is called Damascus — two checks God’s blessings be yours! Michigan. Centro de Cuidado Infantil via the Archdiocese of “Khouria” Slavka Please continue to pray (Children’s Assistant North America. The first Zabrodsky for us as we begin this new Centre) and we are work- check in the amount of St. Nicholas Church part of our ministry in the ing since August 2000 at a $5,000.00 from the Country Club Hills, IL Lord. Be assured we are building that was loaned to Antiochian Orthodox always praying for you. us for a period of two Christian Women of North Asking your blessing, I years. We give aid to those America. The second remain, children that live on check in the amount of Yours in Christ’s Service, streets because their par- $600.00 from the parish of Rev. Fr. Romanos Malouf ents have not the possibili- St. John of Damascus. ty to provide them with Thank you. their basic needs. We offer Continued on Page 34

September 2003 35 THE WORD 358 Mountain Road Periodical postage paid at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania PO Box 5238 Englewood, NJ 07631-5238

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE PILGRIMAGE SCHEDULE UPCOMING EVENTS Friday, September 19, 2003 SS. Thekla & Raphael Pilgrimage: 4:00 PM Registration Main Lobby September 19-21, 2003 5:30 PM Supplication Service St. Thekla Orthodox Institute for Shrine 6:30 PM Dinner Banquet Hall — Church School & Youth Workers: Center November 6-9, 2003 7:30 PM Unction Service SS. Peter & Paul College Conference: Chapel — December 26-31, 2003 Center Winter Camp Session I: 9:00 PM Busy Lives, Busy Breaks: SS. Peter & Paul January 16-19, 2004 Mother Christophora Chapel — Winter Camp Session II: Center February 13-16, 2004 2004 Sacred Arts Series: Saturday, September 20, 2003 Byzantine Chanting: 9:00 AM Orthros & Confessions SS. Peter & Paul Chapel — March 11-14, 2004 Center Pysanky Egg Workshop: 9:45 AM Divine Liturgy SS. Peter & Paul March 11-14, 2004 Homilist: Fr. John Nosal Chapel — Coming in June 2004: Center Opening of New Antiochian 11:30 AM Breakfast Center Dining Village Museum Hall 12:45 PM Who is St. Thekla? SS. Peter & Paul For ground shuttle service contact Majesty Who is St. Raphael? Chapel — Shuttle at 1-888-794-3400 as part of the Center Antiochian Village group. Fr. Michael Nasser 1:30 PM Life Before & After Death SS. Peter & Paul US Airways has discontinued their gold file Mother Christophora Chapel — account with Antiochian Village. For the best airfare, Center it is most economical to make your reservations at 3:00 PM Supplication Service — St. Raphael’s least 60 days in advance. St. Raphael Grave — Camp 3:45 PM Free Time [Meditation Due to requirements for implementation of the Trail with Fr. Paul Albert, 911 Emergency System in our area, there are NEW Meditation Gardens, quiet MAILING and SHIPPING ADDRESSES for both the time for prayer & reflection, Conference & Retreat Center and the Camp: meeting with a priest, confession, take a nap, share with friends, etc.] Antiochian Village Conference 5:30 PM Dinner Banquet Hall — & Retreat Center Center 140 Church Camp Trail 7:00 PM Vespers SS. Peter & Paul Bolivar, PA 15923 Chapel — Center Antiochian Village Camp 8:00 PM Ask Abounas & Saidna Auditorium — 201 Namie Drive Center Bolivar, PA 15923 Sunday, September 22, 2002 8:30 AM Orthros SS. Peter & Paul Chapel — Center 9:30 AM Divine Liturgy SS. Peter & Paul Chapel — Center 11:30 AM Brunch Banquet Hall — Center