Delegate Handbook
Volume 2 Ver October 03, 2013
Deanery and Parish Reports
Diocese of the West Orthodox Church in America 2013 Diocesan Assembly October 8-10, 2013
Meeting at
Protection of the Holy Virgin/St. Seraphim Orthodox Church 90 Mountain View Ave Santa Rosa, CA 95407
2013 DOW Assembly 1 Delegate Book 2
Version October 03, 2013
This is an updated version of this document.
2013 DOW Assembly 2 Delegate Book 2 Table of Contents Volume 2
Desert Deanery...... 5 St. Paul the Apostle Church (1988) – Las Vegas, NV ...... 8 Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church (1951) – Phoenix, AZ ...... 10 St. John of Damascus Orthodox Church (1976) – Poway, CA ...... 14 St. Nicholas Orthodox Church (1940) – San Diego, CA ...... 17
Missionary District Deanery ...... 20 Archangel Gabriel Orthodox Mission (1997) – Ashland, OR ...... 22 St Jacob of Alaska Mission (2003) – Bend, OR ...... 24 St Nicholas of South Canaan Orthodox Church (1988) – Billings, MT ...... 26 St. Anthony the Great Orthodox Mission (1999) – Bozeman, MT ...... 28 SS Cyril and Methodius Orthodox Mission (1999) - Chico, CA ...... 30 Joy of All Who Sorrow Mission (2000) – Culver City, CA ...... 32 Durango Orthodox Mission (2013) – Durango, CO ...... 34 St Katherine of Alexandria Orthodox Mission (2011) – Encinitas, CA ...... 36 St. Christina of Tyre Mission (2004) – Fremont, CA ...... 38 Hemet Mission Station (2011) – Hemet, CA ...... 42 St. George the Great Martyr Mission (1986) – Hesperia, CA ...... 44 St. Juvenaly Orthodox Mission/Holy Ascension Chapel (2004) – Kona/Hilo, HI ...... 46 Saint Katherine the Great Martyr Mission (1999) – Kirkland, WA ...... 49 St. Peter the Aleut Orthodox Christian Mission (1987) – Lake Havasu City, AZ ...... 52 St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Mission (1986) – Merced, CA ...... 54 Church of the Annunciation (1995) – Milwaukie, OR ...... 56 St. Nicholas of Japan Mission (2004) – Redding, CA ...... 58 St. Susanna Orthodox Mission (1999) – Sonora, CA ...... 60 St. John the Evangelist Mission (2006) – Tempe, AZ ...... 62 Holy Apostles Orthodox Mission (1995) – Vancouver, WA ...... 64
Pacific Central Deanery ...... 66 St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church (1936) – Berkeley, CA ...... 68 St. Michael Orthodox Church (1974) – Concord, CA ...... 70 St. Innocent Mission (1997) – Eureka, CA ...... 72 St. Innocent Church (1991) -- Livermore, CA ...... 74 Nativity of the Holy Virgin Orthodox Church (1950) – Menlo Park, CA ...... 76 Elevation of the Holy Cross (1976) - Sacramento, CA ...... 78 St. Nicholas Orthodox Church (1956) – San Anselmo, CA ...... 80 Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church (1952) – San Francisco, CA...... 82 Holy Trinity Cathedral (1868) – San Francisco, CA ...... 84 Protection of the Holy Virgin/St. Seraphim of Sarov Orthodox Church (1936) – Santa Rosa, CA ...... 86 St. Nicholas Orthodox Church (1951) – Saratoga, CA ...... 88
2013 DOW Assembly 3 Delegate Book 2 Holy Myrrh-Bearers Orthodox Church – West Sacramento...... 90
Pacific Northwest Deanery ...... 92 St. Anne Church (1990) – Corvallis, OR ...... 94 St. Herman of Alaska Orthodox Church (2000) – Port Townsend, WA ...... 96 St. Nicholas Church (1895) – Portland, OR ...... 98 St Elizabeth Orthodox Church (2003) – Poulsbo, WA ...... 100 St. Spiridon Orthodox Cathedral (1895) – Seattle, WA ...... 102 Holy Trinity/Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church (1896) – Tacoma, WA ...... 104
Pacific Southwest Deanery ...... 106 Holy Virgin Mary Cathedral (1922) – Los Angeles, CA...... 108 St. Herman Orthodox Church (1974) – Oxnard, CA ...... 110 St. Vladimir Orthodox Church (1995) – Santa Barbara, CA ...... 112 Orthodox Church of the Annunciation (1979) – Santa Maria, CA ...... 114 St. Innocent Orthodox Church (1955) – Tarzana, CA ...... 116
Rocky Mountain Deanery ...... 118 St Mary’s Holy Dormition Church (1905) – Calhan, CO ...... 122 SS Constantine and Helen/Holy Theophany (1974) – Colorado Springs, CO ...... 124 St. Andrew Orthodox Church (1980) – Delta, CO ...... 127 Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Cathedral (1898) – Denver CO ...... 130 St. Herman of Alaska Orthodox Church (1972) – Littleton, CO ...... 132 St. Michael Orthodox Church (1903) – Pueblo, CO ...... 134
2013 DOW Assembly 4 Delegate Book 2 Desert Deanery - Report to the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
His Eminence, Archbishop Benjamin created the Desert Deanery in July 2012. At the October 2012 Diocesan Assembly, held in Denver, Archpriest David Brum was elected by the “Desert Fathers” to serve as Dean of the newborn deanery. The deanery is comprised of the parishes in parts of Southern California, and the states of Nevada, and Arizona. The missions within this territory also participate in the life of the local deanery whenever possible. The communities that comprise the deanery, both missions and parishes, are: Saint George the Great Martyr, Hesperia, CA; Saint John the Evangelist, Tempe, AZ; Saint Paul the Apostle, Las Vegas, NV; Saints Peter and Paul, Phoenix, AZ; Saint Peter the Aleut, Lake Havasu, AZ; Saint Katherine of Alexandria, Encinitas, CA; Saint John of Damascus, Poway, CA; Saint Nicholas, San Diego, CA; and Saint Raphael of Brooklyn, Hemet, CA.
The clergy of the deanery held their first meeting March 11-12, 2013, at Saint John of Damascus Church, Poway. Fourteen clergy and clergy wives participated in this inaugural gathering. Father Alexander and Matushka Vickie Federoff and the parish of St John of Damascus graciously hosted us for dinner on Monday evening and for the meeting on Tuesday. The hospitality offered at Saint John of Damascus was wonderful and the fellowship and fraternal support that we shared was appreciated by all of us. It was wonderful that several matushki were present- both for the dinner on Monday evening and for their own extemporaneous outing on Tuesday morning. The shared discussion time was considered very edifying and encouraging— especially the sharing about the life of the communities and the challenges that are faced and the blessings that are received through serving them.
The discussion of current life in the various communities—and the challenges and successes— was helpful, encouraging, and inspiring. As it was in Poway, this will always be the main topic and the heart of our discussion as those who serve in the deanery listen to each other, seek and offer advice, and support one another in our common work. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! Psalm 133
To sum up some of the other topics of our discussion:
1) It was good to learn that our deanery communities are participating and providing leadership in local inter-Orthodox activities and events, primarily in the area of Lenten Vespers, and that we are all making efforts to promote a united Orthodox presence in our areas. 2) Matushki are invited and urged to attend our deanery meetings and are encouraged to make use of this time together as they may decide and however they desire. It happened naturally in Poway and will undoubtedly continue at our next meetings. For the present, no formal retreats or conferences are planned for them, although at some point they may wish for that to happen and we will gladly make the necessary arrangements and help organize any such event. 3) Fr John Dresko spoke on a perennial topic: how we fund the work of the Diocese of the West and the Orthodox Church in America. Substantial discussion ensued. Fr Matthew Tate and Fr John Dresko will address this issue and present a method of addressing this at the next Diocesan Assembly.
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4) It was good to discuss the area of missions and missionizing—and to be reminded that, in reality, every community, be it an established parish or a new mission, is involved in the work of missions, of proclaiming the Gospel. All our communities are missions… 5) Parish Enrichment Conferences/Retreats- Per the instructions of the Archbishop, each deanery within the Diocese of the West is to plan an annual gathering aimed at parish enrichment and the strengthening of life and ministries within our communities. We determined that we will plan for such an event sometime in the future, as the deanery continues to coalesce and we better understand and define our particular parish and deanery needs. Something will be scheduled for early 2014, most likely after the Nativity/Theophany holidays and before the beginning of Great Lent. 6) Continuing Education of Clergy— We discussed the recent decision of the Holy Synod relating to ongoing clergy education, as well as the materials that have been distributed concerning the newly-established Department of Continuing Clergy Education and the directive mandating 20 hours per annum of continuing education for all priests and deacons. Many questions were raised and discussed concerning this, with the hope that clearer guidelines will be prepared. 7) We discussed the funds now available to each deanery within the Diocese of the West. As reflected in the 2013 Diocesan Budget, the sum of $1,500.00 is available for use within each deanery. It was suggested that a portion of these funds be made available to those who may request assistance in order to participate in our deanery meetings. 8) We discussed the role and importance of background checks and compliance forms as a necessity in these times and that they are mandated both in the Diocese of the West and the Orthodox Church in America. 9) Next Deanery Meeting, September 9-10- The next meeting of the Desert Deanery will be hosted by Fr John and Matushka Liz Dresko at Saint Paul Church, Las Vegas, NV. We agreed that we will follow the same format/agenda we used in Poway, i.e. we will gather for dinner and socializing on Monday evening and come together again on Tuesday morning for the meeting itself.
Since our meeting in March, Saint Paul the Apostle Church, Las Vegas, celebrated its Twenty- fifth Anniversary (http://www.lasvegasorthodox.com/album.php?aid=33) and Saint John of Damascus Church, Poway, completed the first phase of its iconography in the temple’s dome (http://dowoca.org/news_130701_1.html). Congratulations to Father John, Father Alexander, and the clergy and faithful of these two parish communities. Many Years!
Priest Andre Paez, newly ordained graduate of Saint Vladimir’s Seminary, has been welcomed back to his home diocese. He, Matushka Samantha, and their three children: Raphael, Mariel, and Isabel, moved to Tempe, AZ, at the beginning of July, where Fr Andrew will assume his pastoral duties at Saint John the Evangelist Mission. Welcome! Many Years!
Archpriest David Brum Dean
2013 DOW Assembly 6 Delegate Book 2 This Page Left Intentionally Blank
2013 DOW Assembly 7 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Paul the Apostle Church 5400 Annie Oakley Drive Las Vegas, NV 89120
Clergy
Archpriest John J. Dresko, Rector Archpriest James Bertolini, Retired Archpriest John Bruchok, Retired
Committees/Societies
Fellowship/Activity Committee Parish Council Youth Activity Group
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Installation of Pantocrator Icon in dome of church Bi-Monthly Feeding the Homeless Project 25th Anniversary celebration of the parish’s founding
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Feeding the Homeless Project (200 lunches distributed bi-monthly to the needy) Regular food collections for “Friends of the Desert” Winter coat and blanket distribution for needy Monthly Slavonic Liturgy
Major Challenges Faced
Infrastructure problems/repairs Stewardship/membership flux; lots of movement in and out of parish Mortgage
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
Regular calendar of activities to foster fellowship Capital Fund established for infrastructure repairs/replacement
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Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 96 85 85
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 275 275 275 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 160 160 160 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 27 29 26 Attendance
Number of Catechumens
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 28 25 12
Funerals 2 1 0
Marriages 3 2 5
Receptions into Orthodoxy 3 1 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 90 90 80
Adult Education/Number 25 25 23 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 9 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
Saints Peter and Paul Church 1614 East Monte Vista Road Phoenix AZ 85006 602-253-9515 www.sspeterpaulaz.org
Clergy
Archpriest David Brum, Rector Protodeacon Alexis Washington, Attached
Committees/Societies/Ministries
Parish Council – The officers and members of the Parish Council are entrusted with fulfilling the duties assigned to them by the Statute of the Orthodox Church in America, the Bylaws of the Diocese of the West, and the parish bylaws. They assist the parish rector in overseeing the many areas of parish administration, supervise parish improvements projects and ongoing maintenance, and provide inspiration, assistance, and support in the various areas of outreach, education, and parish life. Saints Peter and Paul Parish Choir – Under the direction of Barbara Harp, the parish choir ministers to the parish community through its faithful dedication to singing at the regularly- scheduled Divine Services as well as for holy day and occasional services. It is presently comprised of approximately twenty-five persons. Altar Servers – The altar servers read and serve at the Divine Services and also assist in maintaining the cleanliness and good order of the parish temple, vestments, and articles used in worship. Church School – Headed by Stephanie Homyak who is assisted by teachers, aides, and parents, our parish church school meets on Sundays throughout the academic year, providing religious instruction to the parish children and youth and also organizes various programs and activities, e.g. Saint Nicholas Day Yolka and the “Easter Egg Hunt” at Pascha. Myrrhbearers Altar Society – The Myrrhbearers Altar Society purchases vestments and liturgical items used in the Divine Services and provides for their cleaning and maintenance. The members work together to oversee and/or host Sunday coffee hours and other celebrations and social events. Various fundraisers (bake sales, raffles, etc.) are held to support the liturgical aspects of parish life. Members also coordinate such activities as feastday luncheons, the annual reception after Sunday Lenten Vespers, and Holy Supper on the Eve of the Nativity. Decoration of the Church for holidays such as Nativity, Palm Sunday, Pascha, and Pentecost are also coordinated by the Altar Society. Outreach to elderly shut-ins is also coordinated by the Altar Society. Maintenance Committee – The parish maintenance committee oversees the ongoing regular maintenance of parish buildings and property. Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America (Phoenician “O” Club, Chapter 219) – The
2013 DOW Assembly 10 Delegate Book 2 officers and members of the parish FOCA chapter, all of whom are also involved in other aspects of parish life, also support specially-designated FOCA charities, especially when requested to assist seminarians or clergy in need. Occasional fundraisers are held to assist with this outreach. The FOCA also coordinates special social events for parish youth and young adults. Continuing Education Committee – Adult education classes, aimed at further faith formation, are held throughout the year. These classes are attended by parishioners, members of other Orthodox parishes in the Phoenix area, and inquirers. Communications – A well-prepared monthly newsletter is distributed the first Sunday of each month. Stephanie Homyak is its editor. Our parish website (www.sspeterpaulaz.org) is maintained by Michael Wagner, parish webmaster. A parish email list is maintained by the parish rector to provide suggested readings, etc., especially during Great Lent and the Nativity Fast. Additionally, various schedules and announcements are distributed to parishioners and others on an as-needed basis. Arizona Council of Eastern Orthodox Clergy – Archpriest David Brum, rector, serves as an officer of the local Orthodox clergy council. This council coordinates retreats and other events for the local Orthodox community throughout the year and serves as a “clearing house” for information concerning Orthodox life in the Phoenix area. It also provides online parish information and other resources for the community-at-large. http://www.azorthodox.org/
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Renovation of Church interior, including new ceiling, lighting installations, re-wiring of chandeliers, installation of new carpeting, re-painting of the Altar, re-venting of the church’s HVAC. This was accomplished in preparation for the Feast of the Nativity 2012. During the renovation process, Divine Services were held in the parish hall. (http://sspeterpaulaz.org/church%20renovation.html)
Coordination, for the second year, of the second annual “Arizona Mission Walk.” Inspiration, motivation, and leadership for this activity is from our parish, although the majority of the local parishes participate in and/or support this fundraising effort which benefits both OCMC and Project Mexico equally. To date, this is the largest such effort in the US reported by OCMC.
Annual archpastoral visit of His Eminence, Archbishop BENJAMIN who led us in the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. As always, His Eminence’s visit was deeply appreciated by all the members of the community.
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Saint Mary’s Food Bank - The faithful of Saints Peter and Paul Church continue to support the work of St Mary’s Food Bank, a Phoenix-based organization which serves the needs of the elderly, ill, homebound, and homeless individuals and families throughout the Valley of the Sun.
Project Mexico and Saint Innocent Orphanage - We also continue to support the education programs of Saint Innocent Orphanage, Tijuana, Mexico, by joining with three other Orthodox parishes in providing for a tutor for the students. This is done through a monthly special collection. Initial efforts are being made to sponsor a trip/mission to Project Mexico sometime in
2013 DOW Assembly 11 Delegate Book 2 2014.
Additional Charitable Assistance – Charitable assistance is also provided, whenever indicated and possible, to those who may come to the church during the week in need of food. They are also directed to local social service agencies that are better equipped to respond to a variety of need. Those who do come in search of help are usually homeless and living on the streets. However, this is not an organized outreach.
Major Challenges Faced
The major challenge faced by our parish remains the question of demographics. Parishioners of Saints Peter and Paul Church reside throughout the “Valley of the Sun,” i.e. the Phoenix Metropolitan Area (4,192,887 population, 2010 census; 16,753 square miles). While these demographics provide great possibilities, there are also many challenges. Many parishioners live up to thirty miles from the church, requiring additional time commitment to attend weekday services, meetings, or other parish activities. This often limits expectations for attendance at events that are held during the week, e.g. weekday services and education programs.
While we are welcoming new members among young people and younger families on a regular basis, their ability to become involved in the many aspects of parish life beyond participation in Sunday Divine Liturgy is limited by their involvement in school, organizational, and sports activities, most especially the time commitment to travel to the church after or between these types of activities.
Ministry to Russian immigrants who have moved to Arizona does not seem to be inhibited by language (most arrived in the United States close to ten years ago and already speak English), but rather by the general understanding of church life and expectations concerning parish involvement held by the Russians themselves from their lived experience of church life in Russia. An example is that it is not unusual to have Russian families arrive at the church after the Divine Liturgy on Sunday is order in order to light candles; another example is those who approach the Church for the baptism of an infant child but who, when asked to attend Liturgy before the baptism will be scheduled balk at this request. It must be noted that the Russian- speaking members of our parish are very hospitable in welcoming those who come requesting the fulfillment of various “needs” and do all they can to encourage greater understanding of and participation in church life.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
The 45th anniversary of the church consecration will take place later this year. Although no formal celebrations are anticipated, some type of acknowledgment will take place.
It is also planned to invite a faculty member of one of the OCA seminaries to present a parish retreat during Great Lent. As always, we will invite the clergy and faithful of the other Orthodox parishes to participate in this event.
Ongoing renovations of the temple and parish property are anticipated, including further work on the interior of the temple, the replacement of old fencing with new wrought iron fencing on the
2013 DOW Assembly 12 Delegate Book 2 western and northern boundaries of the parish property, and initial research into the replacement of windows and doors.
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 56 58 61
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 120 125 125 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 70 75 75-80 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 20 25 25 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 2 2 3
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 9 8 10
Funerals 3 2 2
Marriages 2 2 2
Receptions into Orthodoxy 4 3 2
Church School/Number Enrolled 30 26 25
Adult Education/Number 25 20 20 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 13 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St John of Damascus Orthodox Church 16903 Espola Road Poway, CA 92064
Clergy
Archpriest Alexander Federoff, Rector since November 1978 Archpriest John Strickland, attached since September 2012 Deacon George Shumaik, since October 2010
Committees/Societies
Parish Council Greeters St John’s Auxiliary Prosphora Makers Church School Teachers Candlestand Workers
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
1) In November 2011, we began the project to have icons in our church dome (pictured above.) In the center is the Pantacrator with the verse from Psalm 80:14-15 around it. Next, eight cherubs with ornamentation around the windows. On the walls are eight prophets: Daniel, David, Jeremiah, Isaiah, Elijah, Ezekiel, Jonah, and Moses. The next section will include two medallion icons or sixteen icons that parishioners have donated of their patron saints. Installation is estimated for November of this year.
2) In October 2012, St John’s has paid off the debt on our church building. We borrowed $370,000 in 1994 through 549 Church Building Notes (bonds) and paid $3,066 a month as a mortgage for over nineteen years. We were able to pay off the notes six month ahead of time and save about $1,000 in interest.
3) Our Church School teachers are dedicated volunteers who do an admirable job with our children. In December 2012, the Junior High School students won the First Place trophy at the annual Southern California Pan Orthodox Bible Bowl held at St Steven’s Cathedral in Alhambra and the High School students took second place in a very close contest!
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Outreach and Charitable Activities
August 2013 marked our Third Anniversary for participating through FOCUS to feed the homeless in San Diego. Every first Wednesday of the month we prepare a meal and serve it at God’s Extended Hand located at 16th Street and Island in San Diego.
Our Adopted Seminarian was the only graduate in June from St Herman’s Seminary in Kodiak. Since 1990 on the first Sunday of every month, we solicit donations from parishioners. We contribute $200 a month through Outreach Alaska for a specific student from the time he enters the seminary until graduation.
The third Sunday of every month is dedicated as Charity Sunday. We solicit donations and send what is collect to various charities. We recent sent over $800 to Project Mexico which celebrated Twenty Five years building homes.
Major Challenges Faced
We have put development plans on hold. The lack of adequate space for fellowship and our church school classes has not gone away. We did everything we could in planning and clearing requirements with the city of Poway. Cutting back our plans to the bare minimum still required a million dollars.
Also, as our facilities grow older, maintenance is becoming an increased financial concern. Our church hall will be thirty years old in 2014 and it is hard to believe that the church building will be twenty years old next year.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
There have been several possible dates for the founding of St John’s. A letter from Metropolitan Vladimir officially established the mission on May 18, 1975. It is hold to believe that St John’s is 38 years young!
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 95 94 90
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 100 100 100 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 95 95 95 Communicants
Page 2 of 3 2013 DOW Assembly 15 Delegate Book 2
Average Saturday Vigil 35 35 30 - 35 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 3 3 2
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2 1 4
Funerals 4 0 0
Marriages 0 1 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy 3 3 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 25 25 25
Adult Education/Number 3 3 0 Participating
Page 3 of 3 2013 DOW Assembly 16 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Nicholas Church (1940) 3873 Cherokee Ave San Diego CA 92104
Clergy
V. Rev. Alexander Shkalov Rev. Archdeacon Benjamin Richards Rev. Protodeacon George Haloulakos
Committees/Societies Sunday School Adult Education: Holy Bible class. Sisterhood Brotherhood Parish Messenger Website Stewardship Library Chore
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Pledges system Remodeling Church property Remodeling Front Yard of the Church
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Offering instruction in English for arrived immigrants Hospitality and fellowship with the orthodox brotherhood, the Martha and Mary House, The children in Russia
2013 DOW Assembly 17 Delegate Book 2 Project of Mexico
Major Challenges Faced
Lack of Parking for the parishioners Church property need for renovation
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Elka December 2012 Maslenitsa March 2013
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 38 36 31
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 30 30 35 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 10 10 12 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 8 8 6 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 2 1 2
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
2013 DOW Assembly 18 Delegate Book 2 Baptisms 5 12 14
Funerals 4 3 3
Marriages 1 3 2
Receptions into Orthodoxy 3 2 2
Church School/Number Enrolled 8 6 4
Adult Education/Number 4 5 4 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 19 Delegate Book 2 MISSION DEANERY REPORT DIOCESAN ASSEMBLY-DOW 2013
There are currently 24 missions and mission stations in the Deanery.
This year marked a significant increase in new clergy.
St. John the Evangelist in Tempe, Az. is now being served by Fr. Andre Paez. Fr. Andre graduated from SVS in the spring, and is joined by his wife Samantha and their two children. The mission did a really impressive job during its two years without a resident priest, and they are thrilled to now have Fr. Andre.
St. Anthony the Great Mission in Bozeman, Mt. is now being served by Fr. David Morrison, newly graduated from STS this Spring. Fr. David, his wife Patricia and the three children arrived to a very enthusiastic group of dedicated parishioners just breaking ground on the first phase of their building project. We appreciate the untiring ministry of Fr. Damian Kuolt who cared for the Mission over the past year plus.
Fr. Benjamin Huggins (STS), along with his wife Lauren and their four children, have recently arrived in Durango, Colorado to begin a new mission there. They served an internship in Durango last summer, and are eager to build a strong Orthodox Community in Durango.
Fr. Moses McPherson (STS) has taken the place of newly retired Fr. Michael Spainhoward at Sts. Cyril and Methodius in Chico, Ca. Along with his wife Ruth and their new son they are quickly adjusting to their new ministry in Chico. Fr. also serves the mission station in Susanville, Ca. The Chico mission was also blessed this year with the addition of a new Deacon, David Greenfield. They are now facing the good challenge of having a meeting space that is too small.
Other things of note in the Deanery:
Under the leadership of Fr. John Schroedel, the mission in Hilo, Hi. was able to purchase a small but appropriate place of worship. It is a big step to be able to own property in Hawaii. Fr. John serves both the mission in Kona and in Hilo. Now to find an appropriate place in Kona!
Fr. Boulos Khoury is now serving as Priest in Charge of the Mission of St. Raphael in Hemet, Ca. The mission is beginning to see the first signs of growth and development with the continuity of regular services and pastoral care.
St. Gabriel Mission in Ashland, Oregon is also facing the problem of a meeting space that is increasingly too small. Fr. Andreas and the faithful there are in the early stages of property search.
2013 DOW Assembly 20 Delegate Book 2 St. Jacob of Alaska in Bend, Oregon now has a resident priest. Fr. Peter Guilianotti (on loan from ROCOR) is doing a wonderful job caring for our young mission there.
Our newest endeavor is in Bakersfield, Ca. (very importantly the home of both Merle Haggard and Buck Owens!) Fr Damian Kuolt will be helping a new group of folks in the formation of a Mission.
St. Innocent Parish in Eureka was moved from mission status to full parish status this year, and is now in the Pacific Central Deanery. Congratulations to Fr. Laurent and the faithful of Eureka!
These are some of the changes and “high points”, but even more importantly I wish to commend the dedicated and sacrificial work of all our mission clergy, their families and the faithful. Many live in isolation, others in very expensive areas, and all are daily filled with the challenges of mission life. A heartfelt thanks to all those who make this much needed sacrifice to establish solid Parishes in these communities.
A word of thanks to the Mission Board led by Peter Schwalbenberg. This dedicated group of people come together twice each year to help guide and strengthen our Missions.
We also appreciate the support of our Chancellor Fr. Ian, and of His Eminence Archbishop Benjamin. His Eminence tirelessly visits these missions to nurture and encourage them. His Eminence’s loving support for the whole missionary endeavor in our Diocese is crucial to its growth and success.
We also appreciate the generosity of the Diocese in its willingness to significantly financially support missions. I believe that it is unparalled in any other Diocese in the American Church.
Our Mission Deanery Retreat will be held at Annunciation Parish in Milwaukie on March 17-19, 2014. Fr. Theodore Dorrance (GOA) will be the retreat speaker this year. All are welcome to attend.
We ask for your continued prayerful support for the Missions of the DOW. We feel that we are just getting started, and are looking forward to significant Church planting in the coming years.
Respectfully,
V. Rev. Matthew Tate, Mission Dean
PS: I would be remiss not to commend Fr. Anthony Karbo and the faithful in Colorado Springs. They continue to be our best “farm team” sending a continuous stream of clergy candidates to seminary. Keep it up!
2013 DOW Assembly 21 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
Archangel Gabriel Orthodox Church (1997) 1150 Ashland St. Ashland, OR 97520
Clergy
Priest Andreas Blom
Committees/Societies
Choir Ss. Peter & Paul Men’s Fellowship Ss. Mary & Martha Women’s Fellowship Parish Council Sunday School Adult Education and Catechumen Classes Building Committee
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Visitation from Archbishop Benjamin Celebrating our patronal feast with visiting clergy (July 13, 2013) Participated in Pan-Orthodox Family Camp (Eugene, OR) Increased Liturgical life (Festal Vigils, weekday Matins, etc.)
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Collections for in-parish charity needs Involvement in Ashland Food Project Involvement in Jackson County Fuel aid Helping catechumens to make it to camp Fr. Andreas teaching classes to groups of inquirers Donations to La Clinical (health care for low income families) Donations to Magdalene Home (support for pregnant teens and teen mothers)
Major Challenges Faced
Lack of space for services (our current chapel is overflowing most Sundays) The parish financially compensation for the Diocesan stipend after Father’s first year with us. Increased rent for the space we currently use.
2013 DOW Assembly 22 Delegate Book 2 Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
Patronal Feast (July 13, 2014) Pan-Orthodox Family Camp (Eugene, 2014) Pilgrimages to San Francisco, as well as to nearby monasteries (St. John’s Monastery, St. Herman’s Monastery and St. Xenia’s Skete).
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 23 35 35
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 30 39 45 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 30 35 38 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 9 27 18 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 2 3 7
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 1 1 5
Funerals 0 0 0
Marriages 0 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 2 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 9 10 10
Adult Education/Number 10 25 25 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 23 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Jacob Mission 1900 N.E. Division, Suite 109 Bend, OR 97701
Clergy
Priest Peter Guilianotti Archpriest Stephen Soot, Priest in-charge
Committees/Societies
Fund-Raising/Special Event committee
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Mission’s founding. Acquired a Full-time priest for the parish. Membership/attendance has doubled and finances back in the black New choir director and youth minister
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Outreach to homeless teen and nearby mens homeless shelter Developing local Food drive to help needy families
Major Challenges Faced
Several deaths in the parish, including unborn children & one of the founders, really took its toll on the parish family.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
Parish Feast Day – July 26, 2014 Visit by Archbishop Benjamin in 2014 with date TBA
2013 DOW Assembly 24 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 4 0 8
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 9 18 25 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 7 14 16 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 5 0 7 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 1 5 5
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 0 1 2
Funerals 1 0 4
Marriages 0 1 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 1 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 0 4 11
Adult Education/Number 3 9 12 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 25 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Nicholas of South Canaan Orthodox Church 401 Lewis Ave. Billings, MT 59101
Clergy
Fr. John A. Peck Dcn Timothy Wilkinson Fr. John Anderson
Committees/Societies
Myrrhbearers Charity Society
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Blessing of the Yellowstone River at Theophany
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Unknown (I’m too new)
Major Challenges Faced
Stability and assignment of a permanent priest.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
20th Anniversary of the Founding of St. Nicholas Parish.
2013 DOW Assembly 26 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 61 61 61
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 80 80 60 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 55 55 45 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 12 15 15 Attendance
Number of Catechumens n/a n/a 7
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 7 3 4
Funerals 2 1 1
Marriages 0 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 5 0 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 22 27 27
Adult Education/Number n/a n/a 25 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 27 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St. Anthony the Great Orthodox Mission Mailing add: 56 Big Chief Trail Actual add: 101-A Spanish Peak Drive Bozeman, MT 59718 Bozeman, MT 59718
Clergy Rector: Fr. David Morrison Dcn. Gregory McFarland, Sdn. John Heilman, Sdn. John McFarland, Rd. Michael Grinder
Committees/Societies Church Council, Building Com., Church School, OCF, Sisterhood, Youth and Young Adults Group Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities *Fr. David and his family arrived in late June, 2013, as the parish’s first full time priest *The parish enlarged the nave of its existing rental space and did some other internal rearrangements to make room for its growing worshiping community, and broke ground at the new property, beginning site work on our driveway and parking area, and water/well work *His Eminence Archbishop Benjamin came to visit the parish in June, 2013. A highlight was his Q & A time with the parish children
Outreach and Charitable Activities *Fr. David, Dcn. Gregory, and 6 other parish members were present with an Orthodox booth at Montana State Un’s 3-day “Catapaloopsa”, where thousands of students and other organization leaders were present. Many good interactions occurred. *Love INC—our on-going partnership with this church-based outreach to those in need continues *Family Promise—assisting homeless families to regain their housing, independence, and dignity Major Challenges Faced Walking through the season of losing the parish priest suddenly in 2012, having an interim priest flying in for a year, and planning for and getting a full-time priest in 2013---all the while having a building campaign Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 A number of fellowship events and efforts to bring the “family” together, the first church year with our full-time priest—which strengthens outreach opportunities, mid-week services and classes. The hope that we’ll be worshipping in a new building on our property by the end of this stretch of time.
2013 DOW Assembly 28 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 24 20 25
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 40 42-45 45 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 30 30 35 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 25 18 20 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 2 3 8
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 0 3 4
Funerals 0 0 1 (in Billings)
Marriages 0 0 2
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 1 3
Church School/Number Enrolled 10 12 23
Adult Education/Number 2 2 8-10 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 29 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
SS. Cyril and Methodius 2956 Cohasset Rd Chico, CA 95973
Clergy
Fr. Moses McPherson Dn. David Greenfield
Committees/Societies Missions Council, Property Search Committee, Audit Committee, Outreach Committee
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities In February, our youth went on a winter retreat to St John’s Monastery, and helped with the chores of the monastery. On July 7th we had the blessing of celebrating our first hierarchical liturgy, at which sub-deacon David was ordained a deacon. Also in July, our youth traveled to Mexico and built a home as they participated in Project Mexico.
Outreach and Charitable Activities We’ve donated resources to St Silas Prison ministry, helped with Project Mexico, donated resources to St John’s Monastery in Manton, supported the 6th St. walk-in center for homeless youth, been stewards of the West, and helped St. Petersburg Children’s Hospice.
Major Challenges Faced We’ve gone through a major change as Fr. Michael retired in June, and yet had the blessing of being assigned Fr. Moses in July. We are at a critical point of needing to find a larger building, and must sell our current property to go in that direction.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 We’ll have a retreat this winter, and next summer, for our ever growing youth group. We hope to participate in the family camp next summer, hosted in Oregon. And our desire is to have Mother Melania come and speak to our women for a short weekend retreat. Also, we hope to have a men’s monastery trip.
2013 DOW Assembly 30 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 32 31 31
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 45 49 50 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 31 31 36 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 13 16 19 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 4 3 2
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2 2 0
Funerals 2 2 0
Marriages 0 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 1 0 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 11 13 20
Adult Education/Number 6 8 15 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 31 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
Joy of All Who Sorrow 4145 Sepulveda Blvd. Culver City, CA 90230
Clergy
Father John Tomasi
Committees/Societies Technology Committee Children’s Education Music Director Prison Ministry Events & Publication Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Christmas Concert Italian Night Fundraiser Trip to Oak Glen Monday Night Bible Study Outreach and Charitable Activities Prison Ministry What the Dickens Carolers Studies in the Faith (e.g., The Brothers Karamazov, Orthodox Marriage, etc.) Monday Night Bible Study
Major Challenges Faced Covering month to month expenses Increasing the Priest’s Salary and Housing Allowance
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Italian Night Fundraiser Day Trip to Oak Glen Harvest Faire Bright Saturday BBQ Pascha Picnic
2013 DOW Assembly 32 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 16 16 16
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 25-30 25-30 25-30 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 20-25 20-25 20-25 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 10-12 10-12 10-12 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 12 3 3
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 12 0 3
Funerals 0 0 1
Marriages 1 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 0 3
Church School/Number Enrolled 8-10 10-12 10-12
Adult Education/Number 12-14 8-10 10-12 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 33 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
Four Corners Orthodox Mission 14111 CR 240, Durango, CO 81301
Clergy
Priest Benjamin Huggins
Committees/Societies
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Fr. Benjamin found employment and he and his family moved to Durango, CO in July Starting mission in Durango, CO summer of 2013
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Major Challenges Faced
Finding a place to meet in town because of high cost of real estate
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
2013 DOW Assembly 34 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 12 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 10 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 6 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 0
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 1 0
Funerals 0
Marriages 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 0
Adult Education/Number 0 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 35 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St Katherine of Alexandria Orthodox Mission 681 Encinitas Blvd, Suite 305 Encinitas CA 92024
Mailing: PO Box 53, Cardiff-by-the-Sea CA 92007
Clergy
Rev. Dr. Andrew Cuneo, Rector
Committees/Societies n/a
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
1. Visit of Hawaiian-Iveron Icon in May 2013. Serving an Akathist before this icon was a beautiful opportunity for many in the area to come, pray, and see the Mission. 2. Inaugural visit of His Eminence Archbishop BENJAMIN to our Mission. Having the choir and servers pull together for this event was a big first step for us. 3. Serving Holy Week and Pascha services for the first time in our own chapel.
Outreach and Charitable Activities
1. This second year of sharing the chapel space with St Katherine College allowed many more students to experience Orthodox worship simply because the student body grew notably – and with mostly Protestant students. 2. Many of the local Orthodox San Diego parishes joined together to form a group to go to Project Mexico (June 2013) and build a house together. A joy to go with folks from the local Antiochian and GOA parishes. 3. We’ve been able to keep up a good pace of Inquirer’s Classes each week, which has been of particular interest to local Anglicans.
Major Challenges Faced
1. Space. Our tiny chapel is too full, too hot, and the real estate around us is ‘dear’. We are in an active search for a space which can allow us to grow.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 n/a
2013 DOW Assembly 36 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 9 15
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 26 48 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 14 23 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 14 26 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 5 8
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 0 6
Funerals 1 0
Marriages 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 0 0
Adult Education/Number 3 6 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 37 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Christina of Tyre Mission (2004) Worship location: Mail/Offices: 3721 Parish Ave 3612 Peralta Blvd Fremont, CA 94536 Fremont, CA 94536 [email protected] 510- 739-0908 www.stchristinaorthodox.org
Clergy
Archpriest K. Michael Anderson, Rector
Priest George Masters, Attached
Committees/Societies
There are various regular ministries in which people are involved including: Altar Servers Church School Hosting Fellowship Hour Bell (Bowl) Ringing Cleaning/landscaping Hours readers Bookstore Decorators Library Building Committee Epistle readers Parish Council Choir Events/Fundraising Prosphora Bakers Charities Greeters Web Presence Youth Ministry Beautification Pray-ers -- Members commit to offering prayers for those on our community prayer list weekly Most ministries have a coordinator who facilitates the group by way of e-mail lists maintained as part of our website and/or phone calls.
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 1. Installing new flooring for the altar & an iconostasis in time for Holy Pascha 2. Selecting an iconographer for the iconostasis as a community 3. New Members Dinner – This year renamed to “New Friends Celebration” Outreach and Charitable Activities Outreach 1. In October we held an Open House, Community Yard Sale & Bake Sale to encourage people to come, meet the community and perhaps learn about the Orthodox Church. People brought items from their homes to sell and baked all kinds of tasty treats to sell. We had DVDs about the Orthodox Church running in different places. Our bookstore is
2013 DOW Assembly 38 Delegate Book 2 open and available to visitors. We had someone in the church temple to greet people and give impromptu tours to folks who wanted to come and see. 2. On the Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt we held an “Old World Bake Sale” for which parishioners made ethnic treats. Since our community is so ethnically diverse, we had baked goods from many ethnic backgrounds. We advertised in the local newspapers and had an excellent turnout from both Orthodox Christians in the area (many of whom had not known there was a church in Fremont) as well as non-Orthodox who were very interested in the ethnic goodies. We are finding that people are returning from year to year and are looking for the ads. Charities 1. We continue to serve lunch the first Saturday of every month at the ABODE Tri- Cities Sunrise Village Homeless shelter in Fremont. 2. Each month, the mission sends financial support to the Kazan Skete in Santa Rosa. This is a line item in the budget that is supplemented by a charities collection box that is always out on our “welcome table” or on the food table during our fellowship hour. 3. We are participants in the local Tri-Cities Volunteers' Food Drive collecting healthy nonperishable foods for people in need in Fremont, Newark and Union City. 4. We regularly collect batteries for soldiers in coordination with Blue Star Moms. 5. We have drives for clothing, school supplies & Christmas presents to help the children of our local ABODE family homeless shelter here in Fremont as well as other local agencies and Orthodox institutions which serve children such as St. Herman’s Seminary, The Hogar Rafael Ayau, Project Mexico/St Innocent’s Orphanage 6. The mission is a participant and supporter of the annual IOCC Benefit Dinner in the Bay Area. 7. The mission is a founding and regular participant in a new Church World Service “Crop Walk” in Fremont to help provide clean water to peoples overseas. Collections Throughout the year we hold collections for various ministries taking place in our Diocese, the Orthodox Church in America and the Orthodox Church worldwide. These include: a Mother’s Day benefit luncheon to contribute to the Gobezhe Goshu Home for the elderly in Ethiopia; a Father’s Day collection to support our local St. Eugene’s youth camp:; a summer-time collection to support families at St. Herman’s Seminary in Alaska; a collection for Orthodox Christian Fellowship in connection with SCOBA's annual College Student Sunday in September.
Major Challenges Faced
Three very committed families who had been with us from our earliest day have moved away. This led to a need for a large reorganization and call for new volunteers. By the grace of God most of the vacancies have been filled with various responsibilities being broken down into smaller tasks. We have also been blessed with a number of new members and families coming to St. Christina over the past year.
In addition, we have the loan on our church temple that is coming due. Finding a bank to refinance has been challenging. The loan is for $583,000. We have received 83,000 in donations to pay it down. We have received commitments for $100,000 in loans from parishioners and are
2013 DOW Assembly 39 Delegate Book 2 looking to have a bank loan for $400,000. The process has taken much longer than expected since OCCIF which was to be helping us is not up and running yet and one broker that was looking hopeful was not very forthcoming in pursuing loans. We are currently working with a bank used by other Orthodox Churches in the area and are hopeful it will work out in time to pay of our existing loan by the January deadline.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
2014 will be the 10th anniversary of our mission and the 100th year of the building which is now our church temple. We are celebrating our 10th anniversary at our annual banquet on February 9th. His Eminence Archbishop Benjamin will be making his pastoral visit that weekend, celebrating the Divine Liturgy, blessing the new icons for our iconostasis, and attending the banquet. We hope other clergy and faithful from our sister parishes will be joining us as well.
2013 DOW Assembly 40 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 52 54 58
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 55 60 64 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy majority majority majority Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 16 17 17 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 1 3 3
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 3 3 2
Funerals 3 0 0
Marriages 1 1 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 1 0 2
Church School/Number Enrolled 15 14 16
Adult Education/Number 19 20 22 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 41 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Raphael of Brooklyn Orthodox Mission P.O. Box 1455 Hemet, CA 92544
Clergy
Rev. Fr. Boulos Khoury (Priest-in-Charge)
Committees/Societies
1. Feeding the Hungry 2. Community Outreach 3. Choir 4. Sunday School
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
1. His Eminence visit at which time we received our name and Antimensia. 2. Celebrated our first Pascha as a Mission. 3. Baptized and Chrismated a total of six catechumens.
Outreach and Charitable Activities
1. Provided and served meals at Valley Restart Shelter in Hemet. 2. Held a “garage sale” for the poor. 3. Held quarterly potlucks and invited non members. 4. Published articles and placed ads in local newspapers.
Major Challenges Faced
1. Formed a choir. 2. Finding a location for our church. 3. Increasing our membership.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
1. Name’s Day Event February 27, 2014.
2013 DOW Assembly 42 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 0 5
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 13 18 17 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 14 14 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 10 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 6 0
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 6
Funerals 0
Marriages 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 1 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 4 6
Adult Education/Number
Participating
Page 2 of 2 2013 DOW Assembly 43 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo Saint George the Great Martyr Church 17323 Main Street // P.O. Box 400504 Hesperia, Ca., 92345//92340
Clergy Rector: Rev. Fr. Gabriel N. Seamore Deacon: Fr. Deacon George Berni
Committees/Societies Myrrbearers Altar Servers Mens Society Youth Group
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Youth outings Yard Sale Bake Sale Parish Picnic Wednesday evenings Pot Lucks Outreach and Charitable Activities Food basket for poor Hall used for elections
Major Challenges Faced
No major challenge
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 None
2013 DOW Assembly 44 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 12 12 12
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 45 60 50 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 29 35 30 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 5 2 7 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 5 2 1
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2 4 3
Funerals 2 4 2
Marriages 0 0 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 15 2
Church School/Number Enrolled 8 20 10
Adult Education/Number 6 8 12 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 45 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St. Juvenaly Orthodox Mission PO Box 4631 Kailua-Kona, HI 96745
Holy Ascension Chapel Honomu, HI 96728
Clergy
Rev. John Schroedel, Rector Rev. Dn. Daniel Gray, Attached
Committees/Societies
Mission Council
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
2013 DOW Assembly 46 Delegate Book 2 The biggest news for us this year has been the purchase of a building on the other side of the island (in Honomu, about 11 miles north of Hilo). We expect that, in time, this will grow into its own parish. For the moment, Fr. John is going over for Liturgy twice a month. The “East-side” community has been growing, and we have made good progress fixing the place up. There have been many “highlights” connected with this: building up a nascent Mission, obtaining financing, and seeing the place gradually being fixed up and transformed into an Orthodox temple.
The Theophany service this year on the Hilo-side of the island was another, earlier highlight -- an attendance of about 30 people marked a significant increase in momentum that helped give us the courage to make the purchase of the building.
Another highlight has been a growing connection with the Coptic community. At one point, we had four visiting Coptic priests and many other Coptic faithful helping to paint the new church!
Outreach and Charitable Activities
SS. Hospitality, deepening roots in the local community.
Major Challenges Faced
• Our building in Kona is rented on a month-to-month basis until it is sold. With an improving housing market, owner has begun to list the property more aggressively. We remain eager to figure out a more permanent solution for our church life.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 -
Reported for Reported for As of September Calendar Year Calendar Year 1, 2011 2012 2013 10 (Kona) / 7 Fair Share Membership Count 15 15 (Hilo) Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 16 (Kona) / 12 25 15 Attendance (Hilo) Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 22 14 14 / 10 (Hilo) Communicants
2013 DOW Assembly 47 Delegate Book 2 Average Saturday Vigil 11 5 5 (Kona) Attendance
Number of Catechumens 1 0 1 (Kona)
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2 2 1
Funerals 1 0 1
Marriages 0 0 3
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 2 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 12 3 4
Adult Education/Number 1 1 1 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 48 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT For the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St. Katherine Orthodox Mission Mailing: Physical: Box 397 14216 132nd Ave. NE Kirkland, WA 98083 Kirkland, WA 98034
Clergy Priest Barnabas Powell Deacon Dumitru Nita
Committees/Societies Parish Council (six members, plus Rector) Church School Charity Committee Coffee Hour Coordinator Building Maintenance Ministry Mission Bookstore
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 1. A New Deacon. During his archpastoral visit last November, Archbishop Benjamin ordained parishioner Marius Dumitru Nita to the Holy Diaconate. Deacon Dumitru had successfully completed the Diaconal Vocations program. Since his ordination, his ministry has flourished. It includes many services beyond the liturgical, and is a true blessing to St. Katherine Mission. 2. Cultivating Vocations. We now have four parishioners enrolled at seminary. Three are at St. Vladimir’s, and one at St. Tikhon’s. These include some of our most dedicated servants: our former choir director, our treasured subdeacon, a valued reader and one of our Sunday School teachers and altar servers. 3. Growth and Transition. Even as we lost parishioners to seminary and work-related moves, the Lord blessed us with growth. We received 8 new converts on Lazarus Saturday, and presently have multiple inquirers preparing to be enrolled as catechumens. We also had a baby boom! All this during our first year in our new location, a former Protestant church building we now lease. 4. Toward a Permanent Home. A parishioner anonymously sponsored a “Gala Fundraiser” for our Building Fund, on the condition that other parishioners come together and organize it. Held at a nice venue in Bellevue, it featured hors d’oeuvres, libations, entertainment and a silent auction. A substantial sum was raised, everyone enjoyed working together, and it was decided to make this an annual event. Saint Katherine’s typically hasn’t done fundraisers, but we’ve decided to make an exception for our efforts to acquire property.
Outreach and Charitable Activities 1. For the second summer in a row, Father Barnabas and 10 parishioners participated in a Project Mexico “OBT” home-building trip. After piggybacking with a neighboring Antiochian parish last summer, one of our parishioners organized our own group this time, which included participants from 4 other OCA & Antiochian parishes. We built a home for Carlos, Guadalupe and their 6 children.
2013 DOW Assembly 49 Delegate Book 2 2. Our Charity Committee coordinates monthly collections for various charities, including Project Mexico, OCMC, IOCC and the St. Petersburg Children’s Hospice. 3. The Charity Committee weights individual requests for aid from people within the local community, upon referral by Father Barnabas. • We’ll continue providing modest scholarships to our parishioners who attend St. Vladimir’s and St. Tikhon’s seminaries. This in addition to designating 1% of our budget to the 3 OCA seminaries, as suggested by the 16th AAC. 5. In addition to monetary contributions, the Charity Committee also coordinates a “hands on” activity each quarter, such as bell ringing for the Salvation Army and preparing/serving meals via Congregations for the Homeless.
Major Challenges Faced 1. Property acquisition remains our major challenge. Real estate on the Eastside was expensive even during the recession, and is now returning to astronomical levels. After we decided not to purchase our former location (an old American Legion hall), it was demolished to make way for a pair of condos selling for $800,000 apiece. Meanwhile, we’ve completed a due diligence/feasibility study of our current property - a 1970s, 10,000 sq. ft. former Protestant church on 4 acres. Our landlord has offered to sell us the property for ~$3 million (and to provide financing, though at an arguably high interest rate). Even with our Building Fund as a down payment, and factoring in our current rent payment, potential income from other tenants, etc., we’re still looking at a monthly payment of ~$11,000. This is larger than our entire present monthly income. Bottom line: to acquire a permanent home within the next 4 years, we need to 1) grow by at least 12-15 more families, 2) double our Building Fund, 3) maintain an amicable relationship with our landlord. We will also continue to keep our eyes peeled for other properties, and will gladly accept anonymous contributions from any benefactor who’d like to see a mission that's primed to become a parish reach that status! 2. We outgrew our “family-size” dynamic this year. Thank God, but this is also a challenge. It is difficult for a parishioner to know every one else on a first-name basis. This increase in numbers – without a corresponding increase in our cohesion – has also stretched our volunteer network within the parish. There’s more work to do, but the same group of people stepping up to do it. For example, we have a number of new kids in Sunday School, but additional teachers haven't yet come forward. We need to strengthen our ministries.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 *15th Anniversary of St. Katherine’s first Divine Liturgy (Sept. 27, 1998). *St. Katherine’s altar feast in November, with a visit from Archbishop Benjamin. *Second Annual “Gala Fundraiser” after Pascha, to support our Building Fund. *Third annual Project Mexico trip.
Reported for Reported for As of September Calendar Year Calendar Year 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 50 50
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
2013 DOW Assembly 50 Delegate Book 2 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 85 88 Attendance
Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 70 60 Communicants
Average Saturday Vigil Attendance 40 23
Number of Catechumens 4 8
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 3 11
Funerals 1 0
Marriages 0 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 20 25
Adult Education/Number 15 20 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 51 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address St. Peter the Aleut Orthodox Christian Church 2091 Sandwood Dr. Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
Mailing address: PO Box 4527 Lake Havasu City, AZ 86405
Clergy Priest Peter Henry, Rector
Committees/Societies 1. Parish Council 2. Outreach / Public Relations Committee 3. Hospitality ministry 4. Bookstore ministry 5. Choir
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 1. Food Festival – This was the third year the festival was held on our church grounds. Church tours were a great exposure and the attendance was better than the previous year. Our net profit was also greater than last year. 2. We enjoyed Fr. Matthew Tate’s first visit to our mission in December. 3. Fr. John Dresko gave an excellent class on Stewardship to our mission on June 8th.
Outreach and Charitable Activities 1. Interagency Food Bank 2. Families in need 3. Project Mexico 4. Fr. Peter gave the invocation for the City Council at two different meetings. 5. As a volunteer chaplain, Fr. Peter ministers at the hospital and the county jail. Major Challenges Faced
Finances.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 1. Patron Saint Celebration – September 24, 2013 2. Church Picnic at Rotary Park – Spring, 2014
2013 DOW Assembly 52 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 27 20 21
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 31 25 24 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 26 20 20 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 6 5 7 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 2 1 8
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 10 3 0
Funerals 0 1 0
Marriages 0 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 0 3
Church School/Number Enrolled 10 8 4
Adult Education/Number 10 8 10 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 53 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT For the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo Saint Mary Magdalene Mission (1986) Mailing Address: P. O. Box 3704, Merced, CA 95344-3704 Worship Address: The Chapel at Mercy Outpatient Center 2740 M St., Merced, CA 95340
Office Telephone: 209-384-0673 Website: http://StMaryMagdaleneChurch.org Clergy Archpriest David Thatcher, Rector Reader Mark Doiel Committees/Societies 1. Parish Council 2. Myrrhbearing Women Sisterhood 3. Property Search & Evaluation Committee (newly formed) 4. Social Calendar Committee Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
1. Sale of Old Lake Rd. property and repayment of all outstanding debt to the DOW 2. The tonsuring of Reader Mark Doiel and the elevation of the Rector to Archpriest during the visit of Archbishop Benjamin on October 6, 2012 3. Enrollment of three adult catechumens on August 25, 2012
Outreach and Charitable Activities
1. Two successful evangelistic outreach seminars featuring guest speakers (Kevin Allen and Turbo Qualls) 2. Participation of two parishioners in the “Orthodox Basic Training” home building ministry of Project Mexico & St. Innocent Orphanage 3. Food drives in association with evangelistic outreach seminar 4. “Adopted” impoverished family during Christmas season through Merced’s LOVE, Inc., delivering food and gifts.
Major Challenges Faced
1. Re-focusing the Parish Council and mission for new goals and fresh energy with the conclusion of the sale of Old Lake property. 2. Financial uncertainty and stress resulting from the loss Fr. David’s employment at Merced College and reduction of Matushka Karen’s employment (especially over the summer). 3. Ongoing need to develop effective and creative forms of witness in our community through word and deed
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
1. Evangelistic Outreach seminar set for Friday, Sept. 6, 2013 featuring Fr. Andrew Cuneo, entitled “Educating the Heart: C. S. Lewis on finding wholeness in truth, beauty, and the good.”
2013 DOW Assembly 54 Delegate Book 2 DOW Parish Annual Report Page 2 of 2 2013 Merced, CA Report
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 21 20 21
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 38 35 36 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 27 22 22 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 6 7 8 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 2 0 3
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 1 1 1
Funerals 2 0 0
Marriages 0 1 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 2 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 6 5 5
Adult Education/Number 5 7-8 9 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 55 Delegate PageBook 2 of 2 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
Annunciation Parish 13515 SE Rusk Road Milwaukie, Oregon 97222
503.659.3646 annunciationorthodoxchurch.org [email protected] Clergy
V. Rev. Matthew Tate, Rector V. Rev. Kevin Lien, Assistant Rev. Athanasius Shaw, Attached Rev. Damian Kuolt, Attached V. Rev. John Mancantelli, Retired and Attached V. Rev. Nicholas Letter, Retired and Attached Rev. Deacon Christian Jensen Committees/Societies Parish Council Hospitality Committee Altar Guild Women’s Group Parish Nursing Funeral Team Cemetery Committee Visitation Program Book Club Hiking Club High school and Jr. High Youth Groups Sunday School Program Volunteer Program Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Northwest Liturgical Singing Seminar National Icon Workshop Purchase of 160 Grave sites. (145 sold, 40 more purchased) H.S. Youth Pilgrimage to Kodiak Island in July Workshop on Aging Outreach and Charitable Activities Raphael House Portland Back Pack Buddies-Weekend food for children. Human Solutions-Lunch for the needy Major Challenges Faced
2013 DOW Assembly 56 Delegate Book 2 Need for more space. (plans for expansion to start next summer) Effective ministry to young adults Secular Relativism and moral ambiguity. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Hosting Mission Deanery Retreat (Fr. Theodore Dorrance-Retreat Master) Hosting PNW Liturgical Music Workshop (Retreat Master-Prof. David Drilllock) Hosting National Icon Workshop (30 plus expected)
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 105 118 134
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 180 190 200 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 155 165 175 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 55 55 60 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 12 19 12
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 5 13 29
Funerals 2 4 1
Marriages 1 3 4
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 4 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 63 68 75
Adult Education/Number 60 65 70 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 57 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
Saint Nicholas of Japan Mission Redding, CA
Clergy
Father Ian Burgess, Rector
Committees/Societies Parish Council Choir Church School
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Growth of Church School to include two classes. Purchase of instructional books/materials and bibles for Church School. Beautification project of church exterior: painting and placing of cross on roof.
Outreach and Charitable Activities Financial support of one seminarian. Christmas financial gift to local charity and IOCC. Pan-Orthodox Lenten Vespers.
Major Challenges Faced Economy. Pan-Orthodox cooperation.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Patronal Feast
2013 DOW Assembly 58 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 9 9 7
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 30 32 39 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 30 30 33 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 15 15 17 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 2 3 3
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2 1 2
Funerals 1 1 0
Marriages 0 0 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 0 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 7 15 17
Adult Education/Number 15 15 15 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 59 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Susanna Orthodox Mission 10825 Robinwood Lane Sonora, CA 95370
Clergy
Priest Andrew Jacobs Deacon Elias Union Subdeacon Nicolas Teshin Committees/Societies Charitable Giving Myrrhbearers Sisterhood Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Visit by His Eminence, Archbishop BENJAMIN on our Patronal Feast Day; Concelebration of Orthodoxy Sunday with St. Gabriel Antiochian Mission, Angels Camp, CA; Full schedule for Holy Week and Pascha; very well-attended talk by Fr. Andrew Cuneo on C.S. Lewis and his writings. Outreach and Charitable Activities Weekly video series on Cable Channel 8, Sunday evenings at 7:00 p.m.; adult education classes open to the public on Tuesday evenings; weekly Bible study; public educational presentations at various locales; representation on the Interfaith Community Social Services Board. Charitable donations to both local and non-local charities; clothing and food donations to local organizations; public rummage sale to benefit various causes. Major Challenges Faced Jobs are a major issue. Work is hard to get, work schedules are often incompatible with regular church attendance, and the pay is low; residents often move from Tuolumne County for jobs in more job-rich areas. People move to Tuolumne County because of its beauty, then move out because of the job situation. Low population (60,000 in Tuolumne County), combined with several large pre-existing churches, many small independent churches, and several sizable non-Christian congregations makes for a rather crowded missionary field. The recent beginning development of a ROCOR monastery five minutes from our church could affect the situation for better or worse—or not at all. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Parish Patronal Feast Day in December. Walk for Life West Coast in January. Orthodoxy Sunday concelebration. Annual outreach presentation by a noted presenter.
2013 DOW Assembly 60 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 19 22 21
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 22 22 26 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 21 20 24 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 12 15 13 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 0 2 5
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 1 0 5
Funerals 0 1 0
Marriages 0 0 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy 1 2 2
Church School/Number Enrolled 2 2 4
Adult Education/Number 10 6 7 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 61 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St John the Evangelist Orthodox Mission 916 S. 52nd St Tempe, AZ 85281 (Renting Commercial Space)
Clergy
Fr Andre Paez, new priest for mission started serving July 1st 2013
Committees/Societies
Parish Council Hospitality
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Parish held readers services every weekend and had supply priest come once a month and on major feasts.
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Very little activity in Outreach or Charitable Activities this year – focus on completing interior of Church and fellowship hall.
Major Challenges Faced
Lack of Priest until July 2013.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
9-26-13 Our Parish Feast Day of St John the Evangelist will take place. 1-25-14 to 1-26-14 His Eminence Archbishop Benjamin will be visiting our parish.
2013 DOW Assembly 62 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 18 18 26
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 31 32 45 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 28 29 40 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 6 6 8 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 3 3 2
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2 1
Funerals
Marriages 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy 3 1
Church School/Number Enrolled
Adult Education/Number
Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 63 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo Holy Apostles Orthodox Mission (1995) 3214 N St. Vancouver, WA 98663 http://www/holy12.org
Clergy Rev. Dimitri Perez, Rector [email protected]
Committees/Societies Building committee Parish Council Hospitality Women’s Group Men’s Group Sunday School Choir
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Started an official youth group Starting a church library Started to put siding on our building
Outreach and Charitable Activities Clothing and food drive
Major Challenges Faced
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
2013 DOW Assembly 64 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 24 35 31
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 55 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 45 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 20 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 5
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 4
Funerals 0
Marriages 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 26
Adult Education/Number 6 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 65 Delegate Book 2
PACIFIC CENTRAL DEANERY Report to the 2013 Diocesan Assembly Submitted by: Archpriest Basil Rhodes
The Pacific Central Deanery of the Diocese of the West is comprised of one cathedral, as well as parishes, and monasteries situated in Northern California.
Our cathedral, parishes and monasteries include Holy Trinity Cathedral in San Francisco, St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church in Berkeley, Nativity of the Holy Virgin Russian Orthodox Church in Menlo Park, Christ the Saviour Russian Orthodox Church in San Francisco, and Holy Myrrhbearing Women Russian Orthodox Church in West Sacramento, the Monastery of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco (Men's monastery) in Manton, St. Seraphim/Protection of the Virgin Orthodox Church, Santa Rosa, Monastery of the Holy Assumption, Calistoga (a Women's Monastery), the Skete of Our Lady of Kazan (Women's Monastery), Santa Rosa; St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, San Anselmo; St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church, Concord; Elevation of the Holy Cross, Sacramento; St. Innocent Orthodox Church, Livermore; St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, Saratoga; and at least historically, Holy Trinity Chapel, Fort Ross. We expect the inclusion of St Christina of Tyre in Fremont to be included very soon.
As of this writing, there have been a number of important changes in the deanery. There was a re-arranging of monastics between our monastery of St. John of Shanghai, and the Serbian Orthodox monastic community of St Herman of Alaska. St. John's, in spite of these challenges, continues to live its life of prayer and repentance. They sincerely appreciate everyone's prayers and their generous support. Fr Innocent is the newly elected superior. Fr. Konstantin Gavrilkin has been released from Christ the Saviour Russian Orthodox Church in San Francisco, and as of August, Fr. Philip Halliwell has been assigned there. I was present for their Feastday and was very pleased to witness the joy and hopeful exuberance which I saw there. Fr. Roman Katyshev, formerly of St John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church, is awaiting re-assignment, and the community awaits the arrival of its new priest. (The joy briefly remains in the refrigerator.) Fr. John Karcher is doing a great job at St. Innocent's Church in Livermore.
This year, as every year we enjoyed a fun as well as spiritually rewarding St. Eugene's Summer Camp. Fr. Michael Anderson and Kathy Pieracci put it together and run it brilliantly. Again we had campers, counselors and staff from both Northern AND Southern California. On Labor Day Monday, September 2nd, we had another relaxing and enjoyable “Deanery Clergy and Families BBQ.” Once again the event was held at Fremont Central Park, with His Eminence Archbishop Benjamin and around 15 clergy families participating.
Archpriest Basil Rhodes - Dean
2013 DOW Assembly 66 Delegate Book 2 This Page Left Intentionally Blank
2013 DOW Assembly 67 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church (1936) 1900 Essex Street Berkeley, CA 94703
Clergy
Rev. Roman Katyshev
Committees/Societies
Sisterhood School Fund Committee Building Fund Committee Building Committee Maintenance Committee.
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Annual Patronal Feast, July 7 Sunday lunches.
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Monetary donations to two orphanages in Russia and to Russian Children's Welfare Societies in the United States. Collection for OCA, Orthodox institutions, charities.
Major Challenges Faced
Renovation of rectory. Completion of renovation of the parish house Installation of fence in front of the church.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2012 to September 2013
Parish Patronal Feast, July 7 . Christmas Party for children.
2013 DOW Assembly 68 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2012
Fair Share Membership Count 50 40 45 Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2012 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 50 Attendance 40 40 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 15 Communicants 15 20 Average Saturday Vigil 12 Attendance 12 10
Number of Catechumens 2 6 6 Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2012
Baptisms 4 7 4
Funerals 7 4 4
Marriages 0 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 0 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 6 5 0
Adult Education/Number Participating 3 3 2
2013 DOW Assembly 69 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St. Michael Orthodox Church 2425 Olivera Rd. Concord, CA 94520 (Mail: PO Box 728, Concord, CA 94522-0728)
Clergy Archpriest Michael Regan
Committees/Societies Parish Council Choir
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Outreach and Charitable Activities OCMC IOCC Appeals
Major Challenges Faced Aging Budget Maintenance
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 None
Reported for Reported for As of September Calendar Year Calendar Year 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 37 31 27
2013 DOW Assembly 70 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 33 37 36 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 33 35 35 Communicants
Average Saturday Vigil Attendance 12 14 14
Number of Catechumens 2 0 0
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 1 2 1
Funerals 0 2 2
Marriages 0 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 0 0
Church School/Number Enrolled n.a n.a n.a
Adult Education/Number n.a n.a n.a Participating
Page 2 of 2 2013 DOW Assembly 71 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St Innocent Orthodox Mission 939 F Street Eureka, CA 95503 www.eurekafirstchurch.com
Clergy
Rev. Laurent Cleenewerck, Rector Committees/Societies
- Buildings and Grounds - Education and Outreach - Sisterhood (new society since 2012/2013) - Men’s group (new society since 2012/2013)
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
- Comprehensive remodeling of facilities (complete repainting of historic building, dining area, children’s room, library) - Participation in “40 Days for Life”
Outreach and Charitable Activities
- Gathering food for local Food Bank and individuals in need coming to office - Preparation and donation of individual welcome packs for Women’s Shelter - Humboldt State University workshop for Religious Ed students Major Challenges Faced - Impact of challenges and changes in OCA leadership - Maintenance of historical temple ($25,000 expense to paint) Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2012 to September 2013
2013 DOW Assembly 72 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 15 15 15
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 35 35 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 25 25 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 10 10 (Vespers) Attendance Number of Catechumens / 0 0 3 Inquirers Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 3 3 4
Funerals 1 0 0
Marriages 1 1 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 1 1 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 0 0 9
Adult Education/Number 12 15 17 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 73 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Innocent, Livermore, CA
Clergy
Priest John Karcher Sbdn. Wesley (John) Smith
Committees/Societies
Parish Council Fundraising
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
We have had one successful fundraiser. We have had a successful food and clothing drive to assist the local homeless.
We have another fundraiser scheduled for late September. Outreach and Charitable Activities
Livermore Homeless Refuge. Also the parish is making ongoing contributions to two OCA monastic sisterhoods.
Major Challenges Faced
The parish had to find and relocate to another rental property, and is currently struggling with high rent costs. The parish paid all of its past due assessment debt to the Diocese. The parish still struggles financially.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2012 to September 2013
The Parish Feast Day is coming in early October. We are expecting to be joined by His Eminence Archbishop Benjamin.
2013 DOW Assembly 74 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2012
Fair Share Membership Count 37 32 32 Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2012 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 55 Attendance 46 43 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 44 Communicants 39 40 Average Saturday Vigil 12 Attendance 9 11
Number of Catechumens 3 3 0 Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2012
Baptisms 0 0 2
Funerals 0 1 1
Marriages 0 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 4 0 3
Church School/Number Enrolled 12 8 8
Adult Education/Number Participating 8 6 0
2013 DOW Assembly 75 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
The Nativity of the Holy Virgin Church 1220 Crane St. Menlo Park, CA 94025
Clergy Rev. Hermogen Holste, Rector Committees/Societies Parish Council Choir St. Elizabeth Sisterhood Prayer Group Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Our biggest activity this year has undoubtedly been the ongoing beautification and improvement of our historic church building, which culminated this year in the addition of a beautiful new narthex and choir loft to the front of our building. We have moved the candle desk to the narthex, giving us a great deal more space in the church, as well as reducing disruption during services. We formally opened the new expansion in January at the celebrations in honor of our 60th anniversary, presided over by His Eminence, Archbishop Benjamin. The expansion and anniversary drew much local attention, being featured in both print and online media.
Our sisterhood, under the indefatigable leadership of Tatiana Diedovitch, continued their efforts throughout the year, hosting our annual Christmas Bazaar in December, as well as regular hot lunches after Sunday Liturgy, and festive celebrations on Christmas and Easter. There have been a number of new helpers this year, and our longstanding members keep going strong, despite the limitations imposed by their increasing age.
We continue to provide educational opportunities for both adults and children, with our church school programs featuring regular classes in the Law of God, our annual Christmas Yolka, and a Russian language camp over the summer. We have continued to work with educating adults as well in the Christian faith, receiving a number of converts over the course of the year. Outreach and Charitable Activities Our parish contributes to a number of charitable activities over the course of the year, most notably the Day of the Russian Child in San Francisco.
We continue to minister to the needs of the broader Russian-language community in the area, working to help guide them towards a deeper commitment to our Saviour, Jesus Christ.
2013 DOW Assembly 76 Delegate Book 2 Major Challenges Faced We are facing two major upcoming transitions in the life of the parish. First of all, as many of our children become teenagers, we shall have to find new ways to develop youth ministry, an area in which our parish life has been generally weak. Second, our sisterhood is facing major change as its core members continue to get older and their health begins to decline. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Annual Christmas Bazaar – December 7, 2013
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 38 35 39
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 80 85 85-90 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 25 30 40 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 25 25 20-25 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 1 inquirer 2 inquirers 2 inquirers
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 7 14 23
Funerals 3 4 7
Marriages 1 1 2
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 0 2
Church School/Number Enrolled 20 15-20 20
Adult Education/Number 10 7-10 10 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 77 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT
for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
Elevation of the Holy Cross Sacramento, CA
Clergy
Archpriest Ian MacKinnon Archpriest Thomas Renfree
Committees/Societies Choir Adult Education UC Davis Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) Greeters Committee Parish Council Church Finance Committee Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Pascha Presentation of the New Church Model – Dinner Diocesan Camp Parish Camp at Lake Tahoe Outreach and Charitable Activities St Michael Food Program (Weekly) St Xenia Project (Help for a Group Home) Christian Children’s Fund Support Save Serbian Children Sponsorship Major Challenges Faced
Buildingour new church….
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Feast Day – Sept. 14th
2013 DOW Assembly 78 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 87 84
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 100 105 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 85 80 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 18 15 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 9 5
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 13 5
Funerals 1 2
Marriages 4 2
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 10 15
Adult Education/Number 18 25 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 79 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St. Nicholas Orthodox Church (1956) 102 Ross Avenue San Anselmo, CA 94960
Clergy Archpriest Stephan Meholick Protodeacon George Golitzin
Committees/Societies The actual framework of the parish community can be broken down into eight ministries: Liturgy & Music, Temple Caretakers, Fellowship & Parish Service, Parish Operations, Education, Good Works & Community Outreach, Finance, and Maintenance & Capital Improvements. ALL Parish members are invited to become active participants of ministries and leaders of each group comprise the parish council.
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Dec. 5-6: St. Nicholas Day visit by Archbishop Benjamin. April 21: Protodeacon George Golitzin was awarded the kamilavka. June 24, 2013: Visit by his Beatitude, Metropolitan Tikhon.
Outreach and Charitable Activities
We host three local "12 step" meetings at our facilities. We regularly support IOCC, OCMC, Homeward Bound (local shelter), St. Vincent De Paul Dining Room (local soup kitchen), and the Uganda Education Fund.
Major Challenges Faced
One of our best assets is our wonderful location in the beautiful "seminary district" of San Anselmo. One of our worst liabilities is our wonderful location in the beautiful "seminary district" of San Anselmo. The enormously high cost of living (esp. real estate which again is increasing in value here) forces many of the faithful to relocate in more affordable areas. Our greatest challenge is facing the complexities of an effective outreach to the local community around us while simultaneously ministering to the Slavs in the North Bay who come to St. Nicholas.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
Oct.5: Annual Bazaar and Community Outreach Day with a choir concert: Bread and Water, Wine and Oil: an Encounter with God.. Dec. 5-6: Altar feast of St. Nicholas.
2013 DOW Assembly 80 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 64 64 65
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 70 70-75 75 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 40 40 40 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 25 25 25 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 5 4 8
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 4 7 3
Funerals 3 1 3
Marriages 1 1 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 3 1 5
Church School/Number Enrolled 35 33 29
Adult Education/Number 25 15-20 15 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 81 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
CHRIST THE SAVIOUR ORTHODOX CHURCH 2040 ANZA STREET, SAN FRANCISCO, 94118 CA
Clergy PRIEST PHILIP HALLIWELL Committees/Societies BUILDING AND MAINTENANCE COMMITTEE THE SISTERHOOD THE MEN’S CHOIR “DIAKONIA” UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF SERGEI RIABTCHENKO Since October 2011 Highlights of Top Three Activities In the Spring Archbishop Benjamin appointed for the parish a new priest, Fr. Philip Halliwell. Fr. Philip speaks Russian and serves in English and Slavonic. His wife Matushka Tatiana is Russian, and they have four children ages 10 to 18. Fr. was serving at the mission in Billings MT, but his student visa was expiring in the summer, leaving him and his family unable to work and be compensated. Their only hope was to apply for a new visa as a religious worker. Our chancellor Fr. Ian produced a white knight in the person of his parishioner David Lane, a lawyer with experience in procuring this visa. Working pro bono, David orchestrated the complex documentation effort drawing on resources from the parish, the deanery, and from afar such as St. Tikhon’s seminary. He generated about 100 pages of supporting material for the visa application. Until the visa was approved, Fr. could not work or receive any compensation, including housing. In Billings the family lived day to day on the charity of friends in the parish. On an indication that the approval would come through about July 17, flights to San Francisco were booked and furniture scheduled for delivery on that date. The day came, the family and furniture came, but no approval came. The days of waiting started adding up. During this time the parishioners opened their hearts, homes, closets, pantries, pocketbooks and dining rooms to the Halliwell family and got to know and like them. As week followed week of anxious waiting, Archbishop Benjamin gave constant encouragement and urged the parish to have Fr. Philip serve. Not wanting to jeopardize the application in any way, the parish hired substitutes as the main priest for four weeks to avoid even the appearance of giving Fr. Philip compensated work. Finally the parish was bold enough to have Fr. Philip serve by himself. The next day the visa was approved. The family started moving into the rectory, just in time for Dormition and the parish feast of Icon Not-Made-by-Hands the following day, which was celebrated by a Divine Liturgy served by Archbishop Benjamin to the gratitude and rejoicing of all. Outreach and Charitable Activities Support of Russian Children’s Welfare Society and families with sick children in Russia. Help in the soup kitchen of the Russian-American Community Services. Our goal this year is to rebuild confidence in our parishioners and to also reassure those in our Parish’s orbit who are hesitant to participate, that we are starting a new, more inclusive era, and welcome their involvement. Major Challenges Faced Resolving problems related to opening the parish to non-Russians; overcoming apathy and indifference to supporting the parish financially. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2012 to September 2013 In the Fall, we have plans for a rummage sale to kick-start influx of much needed funds and revive a spirit of community in the parish. During Maslenitsa we plan to return, once again, to our extremely popular Blini Lunch. In the past, this event, in conjunction with a widely promoted lottery with valuable prizes, resulted in substantial funds raised and attracted our whole parish community and those in its orbit to a joyful event
2013 DOW Assembly 82 Delegate Book 2 As a parish we will encourage our talented, world class choir to plan concerts, especially locally, as they highlight the beauty of the Russian Orthodox Liturgy and serve to draw our community together.
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 41 33 18 Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 38 39 Attendance 45 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 17 15 Communicants 15 Average Saturday Vigil 8 8 Attendance 10
Number of Catechumens - - - Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 6 2 4
Funerals 9 4 11
Marriages 1 - -
Receptions into Orthodoxy - - -
Church School/Number Enrolled - 5 0
Adult Education/Number 7 7 Participating 10
2013 DOW Assembly 83 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo Holy Trinity Cathedral (1868) 1520 Green Street San Francisco, CA 94123
Clergy Archpriest John Takahashi, Dean Archmandrite Meletios Weber, attached Archpriest Leo Arrowsmith, attached Archpriest David Lowell, attached Priest Konstantin Gavrilkin, Attached Archdeacon Kirill Sokolov, Attached Protodeacon Brendan Doss, Attached Committees/Societies Parish Council Choir Stewards Church School Youth
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Monthly lectures and events for outreach Publications for continuous learning about Orthodox Christian life Art Show for fundraising
Outreach and Charitable Activities Support for various Orthodox Christian social welfare organizations Supporting missionary activities Sending out relief funds Collecting food and clothes for the food bank
Major Challenges Faced Children’s education Coordinating the fellowship meal
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Annual Church Picnic Thanksgiving Day banquet Art Show for fundraising Sunday School Nativity Play
2013 DOW Assembly 84 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 68 68 65 Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 92 Attendance 84 80 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 82 Communicants 76 72 Average Saturday Vigil 18 Attendance 17 13
Number of Catechumens 4 5 3 Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2010 2011 2012
Baptisms 3 2 4
Funerals 2 2 1
Marriages 2 2 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 0 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 8 8 8
Adult Education/Number Participating 4 8 6
2013 DOW Assembly 85 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo Protection of the Holy Virgin and St. Seraphim of Sarov Orthodox Church 90 Mountain View Ave Santa Rosa, CA. 95407
Clergy Archpriest Lawrence Margitich, rector Archpriest Michael Margitich, pastor emeritus Archpriest John Schettig, assistant to rector Archpriest John Ramos, attached, Parish Secretary Deacon Jeremiah Crawford and Deacon Nicholas Carr
Committees/Societies Parish Council, Parish Sisterhood, Glendi Organizational and Financial teams, Funeral Teams for men and women, Parish Senior Lunch Fellowship (once a month luncheon), Choir, Gardening crew, Candle Desk team, Altar Servers Prosphora Bakers, Wine Makers, Church Floral Decorator team, Bell ringers, Greeters, Mercy Meals, Church School Teachers, Catechism Teachers, Scrip, Charity Committee, Office help, etc.
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 1. PSALM church musician workshop end of January / V. Gorbik Master Class in June 2. completion of frescos for Transfiguration, Meeting of the Lord, and Theophany 3. Baptism of catechumens on Lazarus Saturday
Outreach and Charitable Activities Charitable offerings collected and sent to IOCC, OCMC, local Redwood Gospel Mission, Catholic Charities, a local homeless shelter, etc. 10% of our Glendi International Food Festival net profit goes toward charities. The parish gave almost $17,000 in charitable funds to organizations and people in need during 2012. $3000 donation made to Project Mexico
Major Challenges Faced Organization of youth activities Cost of grounds keeping for our seven acres Maintaining worship space with dome scaffold (July –Lent, at least)
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Hosting Diocesan Assembly 60th Anniversary of Ordination celebration for Archpriest Michael Margitich Glendi Food Festival
2013 DOW Assembly 86 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 115 118 128 Fair Share Membership Count
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 200 200 220
Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 145 160 180
Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 45-65 45-65 45-65
Attendance 2 13 3 Number of Catechumens
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 10 26 9 (as of June 30) Baptisms
4 6 3 (as of June 30) Funerals
2 4 6 (thru Sept.) Marriages
1 Receptions into Orthodoxy
45 50 50 Church School/Number Enrolled
Adult Education/Number 18 20 20
Participating
Page 2 of 2 2013 DOW Assembly 87 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
Name: St. Nicholas Orthodox Church Address: 14220 Elva Ave., Saratoga, CA 95070
Clergy
Rector: Archpriest Basil Rhodes
Committees/Societies
Festival Committees Charities Committee St Theophan Study Group Hospitality Committee
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Bible Study – the Full Gospel of Matthew, Adult Education Classes, Russian Festival Visit of the Iverskaya-Hawaii Icon of the Mother of God.
Outreach and Charitable Activities Russian Festival (Church Tours, Free Literature, talks) Charity Fund Raising for Kazan Skete, Project Mexico, Gobezi Goshu House, and others Also, assistance provided to needy parishioners
Major Challenges Faced We're holding our own financially, thanks be to God. We lost 3 great parishioners to moves. Always sad! Fr Basil prays for a Deacon and/or free second Priest. (He was spoiled in the past!)
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 May 22, 1954 Temple consecrated by Archbishop John Shahovskoy. (60 years); Fr Basil's 37th Anniversary of Ordination; A fund-raising event with a famous 60's entertainer (in the works – we hope!)
2013 DOW Assembly 88 Delegate Book 2
Reported Reported As of for for Septemb Calendar Calendar er 1, Year Year 2013 2011 2012 Fair Share Membership 42 40 36 Count Reported Reported January for for 1 thru Calendar Calendar Septemb Year Year er 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine 60 40 56 Liturgy Attendance Average Sunday Divine 15* 38 48 Liturgy Communicants (mistake) Average Saturday Vigil 20 12 15 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 0 2 1
Reported Reported January for for 1 thru Calendar Calendar Septemb Year Year er 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 6 1 7
Funerals 3 4 4
Marriages 2 0 3
Receptions into 0 0 0 Orthodoxy Church School/Number 30 15 15 Enrolled Adult Education/Number 30 15 15 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 89 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
Church of the Holy Myrrhbearing Women 833 Water street, West Sacramento, CA 95605 (916) 371-1041
Clergy
V. Rev. Fr. Matthew Ismailov
Committees/Societies Parish Council Sisterhood Choir
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities The primary work of our parish continues to be the glorification of God; Testimony on Christ; Confession of the Orthodox Faith; Teaching the Holy Scripture and Church Canons; Teaching the Law of God and church singing; The commission of Divine Services and the Нoly Sacraments.
Outreach and Charitable Activities The parish conducts charitable work which is addressed specifically to older people with serious health ailments. Financial assistance to the needy from parish’s. Missionary work is being done among a large group of Russian speaking Baptists residing in Sacramento. Major Challenges Faced The parish is shepherding primarily Russian speaking people representing three waves of emigration from the countries of the former Soviet Union. One concern is the reluctance on the part of those who regularly attend our parish to be officially listed as members (especially newcomers from the third wave of emigration). There are many and complex reasons for this, not least of which is that many people do not see any actual benefit to joining the parish officially. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Cheese Fare Week (Maslenitsa) 2014 Christmas Tree ( Elka) for children 2014 Parish Feast Day 2014
2013 DOW Assembly 90 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 32 40 32
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 30-40 30-40 30-40 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 1-10 1-10 1-10 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 1-10 1-10 1-10 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 3 3 5
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 9 5 8
Funerals 7 4 5
Marriages 4 2 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 3 2
Church School/Number Enrolled 5 7 6
Adult Education/Number - - - Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 91 Delegate Book 2 Report of the Pacific Northwest Deanery Archpriest John Pierce, Dean
August 24, 2013
The Pacific Northwest Deanery consists of St. Spiridon Cathedral, Seattle WA (1895); St. Nicholas Church, Portland OR (1895), Holy Resurrection Church, Tacoma WA (1896); St. Anne Church, Corvallis, OR (1990), St. Herman Church, Port Townsend, WA (2000), and St. Elizabeth Church, Poulsbo, WA (2001).
Both of the major urban hubs of our Deanery, Seattle and Portland, have strong and dedicated Pan-Orthodox associations. Our Deanery parishes and missions are integral parts of these associations which provide worship, mission and fellowship opportunities for the clergy and faithful. Albany/Corvallis, being further from the Portland area, and having only a handful of small Orthodox parishes and missions, has fewer opportunities for this type of Pan-Orthodox involvement.
The most significant activity this past year was the launching of a Deanery Youth Camp for children 1st – 12th grade, June 24-27, 2013 at the All Saints (Greek Orthodox) Camp in Gig Harbor, WA. Frs. Lawrence Gaudreau of St. Elizabeth Church and Barnabas Powell of St. Katherine Mission in Kirkland, WA teamed up to organize & lead the camp. Over thirty children attended and participated in swimming, canoeing, arts & crafts, campfires & games. Fr. Stephen Soot prepared lessons about the seven vices and virtues. Daily Vespers and Matins were served in the chapel, with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy on Thursday. Dates have been reserved for 2014; parents picking up their happy children were excited about participating in next year’s camp.
Respectfully Submitted by Archpriest John Pierce
2013 DOW Assembly 92 Delegate Book 2
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2013 DOW Assembly 93 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Anne Church 6000 NE Elliott Circle Corvallis, OR 97330
Clergy Archpriest Stephen Soot, Rector Subdeacon Hennok Soot Archimandrite Isidore Brittain Subdeacon Timothy Kreta Subdeacon John Gallagher Subdeacon Vasilios Demestihas
Committees/Societies
Greek Food Fest steering committee Mid-Valley Orthodox, LLC for management of the historic grange hall St. Anne Weekly Men’s Group Vision & Growth Planning Committee
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Visit by Archbishop Benjamin to Corvallis. 9th Annual Greek Food Fest continues its record of success. Adult Bible Studies hosted by parishioners in their homes on a scheduled rotation completes three well-attended, one-month sessions.
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Oversight and operation of the Family Tree Relief Nursery for children at risk of abuse or neglect. Volunteer support for Love, Inc. for the care of low-income families & shut-ins. Food & clothing distribution and financial assistance to the needy from parish’s St Catherine Fund.
Major Challenges Faced
The parish has outgrown its present facility and is investigating the purchase of additional property to accommodate this growth.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
10th Annual Greek Food Fest -- October 12-13, 2013 Parish’s Patronal Feast – July 25, 2014
2013 DOW Assembly 94 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 72 77 84
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 100 100 102 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 77 80 83 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 24 24 25 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 7 9 8
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2 4 2
Funerals 1 0 2
Marriages 0 1 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 4 7
Church School/Number Enrolled 30 27 29
Adult Education/Number 20 20 22 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 95 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Herman of Alaska Orthodox Christian Church 1407 30th St. Port Townsend, Wa 98368
Clergy Rev. Nicholas Kime Deacon Christopher Grant Sub-Deacon Christopher Lewis Tonsured Readers- Stephen Schumacher, Aaron Breitbach
Committees/Societies Parish Council St. Nicholas Event Committee Yard Sale Committee Elder Care Committee Way of a Pilgrim Bookstore
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Pascha 11th Annual St. Nicholas Gift to Port Townsend event held in our church and parish hall Alatar Feast for our church dedicated to St. Herman
Outreach and Charitable Activities
We dedicate 7% of our undesignated income each month to help people in our church community who are in need, as well as some in the greater community and various other charitable organizations around the country and the world. We also help support a local ministry that has grown out of our parish called Lazarus House in its work of caring for people who are living out the last days of their lives.
Major Challenges Faced We always face the challenge of living an Orthodox Christian life in a fallen world. What a blessing it is to have a Christian Community to support one another! Financially speaking, it is a challenge to keep a balanced budget and pay for the new property we just purchased. We are also planning a church building expansion this year or early next year.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 12th Annual St. Nicholas Event in Port Townsend
2013 DOW Assembly 96 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 42 43 47
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 50 55 64 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 43 47 56 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 18 20 19 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 10 5 11
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 6 3 11
Funerals 0 1 0
Marriages 0 0 2
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 0 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 16 20 22
Adult Education/Number 18 23 23 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 97 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Nicholas Orthodox Cburch 2210 S. W. Dolph Court Portland, Oregon 97219
Note new website address: http://stnicholasportland.org/
Clergy Archpriest George Gray, (Deacon Kevin Haan — moved to Coos Bay, Oregon) Committees/Societies Parish Council, which in addition to ongoing administrative work, oversees many of the ongoing tasks and special activities of parish life. St. Elizabeth Pastoral Care Team (assists Rector with care and outreach to parishioners in need) 5-Year Plan Committee (reviews and plans for overall parish life, programs, activities, etc.) Fellowship of New Skete (helps organize & coordinate retreats, prayer & study groups, etc.) St. Martin of Tours Good Works Committee (oversees the charitable work of the parish) Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities New Parish Web Page (see the url above) Re-vitalization of our Church School Program for younger parishioners Outreach and Charitable Activities Work with JOIN & The New City Initiative (Homeless Resources in the city of Portland). We also provide membership for the Board of that organization. Parishioners volunteer monthly at Portland Homeless Family Solutions, a… We provide members for the Board of Agia Sophia Academy Orthodox School in Beaverton. Monthly support to St. Juvenaly Mission in Kona and Ascension Mission in Honomu, Hawaii Monthly serving of meals at the St. Francis Dining Hall Major Challenges Faced The 8 year-old roof on our parish hall has presented major design and installation defects resulting in leakage and rot. The original contractor and architect have worked with us to repair the damage and replace the roof to everybody’s satisfaction, with a 40-year guarantee. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Kliros presentation of Roman Hurko’s setting of Great Vespers — Saturday, October 5 — Kliros is a chorus of mixed voices dedicated to presenting major works of the Eastern Orthodox liturgical music in the setting of liturgical celebrations. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kliros/141521249337297
2013 DOW Assembly 98 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 95 95 95
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 100 100 100 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 90 90 90 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 25 25 25 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 1 4 6
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 4 4 5
Funerals 3 2 4
Marriages 2 3 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 1 1 6
Church School/Number Enrolled 24 24 23
Adult Education/Number 6 14 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 99 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St. Elizabeth Church 26580 Breidablik PL NW Poulsbo WA 98370
Clergy Priest Lawrence Gaudreau Protodeacon Mark Becker Deacon James Ferrenberg
Committees/Societies St. Elizabeth’s Sisterhood
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 1. Project Mexico and all the connected fundraisers. 2. Forgiveness Vespers 3. Parish Maslanitsa celebration.
Outreach and Charitable Activities 1. Project Mexico 2. Heating bill assistance to some parishioners
Major Challenges Faced 1. Being a healthy and functioning parish 2. Internal fighting among parishioners 3. Finances
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 None
2013 DOW Assembly 100 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 42
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 62 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 58 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 12 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 10
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2
Funerals 1
Marriages 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 4
Church School/Number Enrolled 15
Adult Education/Number 10 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 101 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo Saint Spiridon Orthodox Cathedral Mailing Address: 400 Yale Avenue North 1310 Harrison Street Seattle, Washington 98109 Seattle, Washington 98109 Clergy Archpriest Yuri A. Maev Archpriest Vadim A. Pogrebniak, Pastor Emeritus Committees/Societies The Guild of the Lord’s Friends Standing Committees: • Reducing the Risk • Maintenance Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 1. Despite the need to drastically downsize our annual bazaar due to continued major construction directly across the street from the Cathedral, we were able to hold another successful bazaar. 2. We held our first Open House for the neighborhood. 3. Our Feed the Hungry program is now in its’ third year and has grown to serving almost 60 guests each month. Outreach and Charitable Activities Monthly charity collections from September 2012 through August 2013 totaled $13,770.00. Our Lent Box efforts netted just over $1,400.00. We held our first pet food drive and a Souper Bowl of Caring food drive prior to Super Bowl Sunday; both were supported generously. Again our annual toy/gift collection was a success; requiring two cars completely jam packed to deliver the donations. A recent nursing school graduate and parishioner joined other nurses for a trip sponsored by the Foundation for Peace. Over $1,100.00 of over-the-counter medications and hygiene supplies were purchased with collected funds. Our Feed the Hungry guests all received gift bags during the Nativity season and at Pascha. Major Challenges Faced We continue to deal with several large construction projects in the area which have eliminated most street parking and results in many street closures, detours and at times utility shut-offs.
Our budget has been tightened to reflect slightly lower income.
2013 DOW Assembly 102 Delegate Book 2
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 We are awaiting the arrival of a new 700 pound bell from Russia. Donations are being collected for the next Iconography project in the altar.
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 89 91 86
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 110 110 100 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 75 75 75 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 45 45 35 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 1 3 2
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 1 5 7
Funerals 1 1 2
Marriages 1 2 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 4 7 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 35 32 30
Adult Education/Number 8 6 6 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 103 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo Holy Resurrection Church, Tacoma Holy Trinity Temple, Wilkeson Site: 8710 28th Ave E Tacoma, WA 98445 Mail: P.O. Box 1332 Puyallup, WA 98371
Clergy Archpriest John Pierce, Rector. Attached: Archpriests John Garvey, Joseph Velez; Priests Daniel Armatas, Irenaeus Williams, James McKee. Deacons Luke Fordice, Joseph Ramos. Committees/Societies Parish Council, Holy Myrrhbearers Sisterhood, Youth Group Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 1. Visit of His Eminence, Archbishop Benjamin for the 110th Annivesary of the Consecration of Holy Trinity Temple by St. Tikhon in October 2012. 2. Hosting the Diocesan Practicum for Deacons & Subdeacons May 2013 with His Eminence, Archbishop Benjamin and OCA DVP Director Archdeacon Kirill Sokolov. 3. The ordination to the Holy Diaconate of parish member Joseph Ramos at the Practicum. Outreach and Charitable Activities $2,000 sent to the Bancheni Orphanage in Bukovina, Ukraine. $2,000 sent to the St. George Charity Fund in Beit Jala, Palestine. Monthly collection to aid those in need (average $7,000 per year). Participating in the local Fish Food bank, the local meals for the hungry program, and Veterans assistance. Toys for Tots collection in December. Major Challenges Faced The next goal for our parish is to establish a cemetery on our 10 acre Tacoma campus. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 No anniversaries for a while. God willing, in 2015 Fr. John will have served 30 years at Holy Trinity/Holy Resurrection Parish.
2013 DOW Assembly 104 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 81 85 91
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 120 120 120 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 100 100 100 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 30 25 25 Attendance
Number of Inquirers 8 5 2
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2 9 7
Funerals 1 0 0
Marriages 0 1 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 0 3
Church School/Number Enrolled 25 20 NA
Bible Study: 17. Bible Study: 17. Lenten Program: Lenten Program: Adult Education/Number 15 30 35 Participating Scheduled Scheduled Lectures: 10 Lectures: 8
2013 DOW Assembly 105 Delegate Book 2 2013/14 Pacific Southwest Deanery Report Diocesan Assembly of the Diocese of the West V. Rev. Lawrence Russell, Dean August 28, 2013
Your Eminence, Vladyka BENJAMIN, Very Reverend, Reverend Fathers, and pious delegates, I want to begin by thanking God for His help and each of you for your prayers and the help that you have generously offered me.
Structural Changes and Clergy Assignments There were no structural changes to the Pacific Southwest Deanery during the past year. Vladyka BENJAMIN has, for reason of the nature of items being dealt with, taken personal charge of St. Vladimir Church in Santa Barbara, CA. The Pacific Southwest Deanery is comprised of the following five parishes: Holy Virgin Mary Cathedral, Los Angeles; St. Herman Church, Oxnard; St. Innocent Church, Tarzana; Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, Santa Maria; St. Vladimir Church, Santa Barbara.
Clergy Diptychs There have been no changes to clergy diptychs within the Deanery at the time of the writing of this report. However, Hieromonk Gerasim (Eliel), who has done such an excellent job assisting Archpriest Nicholas Boldireff at Holy Virgin Mary Cathedral, Los Angeles, will (sadly) be released to the Diocese of the South—his last Sunday being September 1st. We ask the Lord’s blessing on his servant.
General Remarks As the reader will see, from the individual parish reports, the parishes of the deanery have been generally stable and active. Deanery membership is up by around 2%. One parish decreased in membership (Oxnard), one remained the same (Tarzana) and two increased (Los Angeles and Santa Maria).
I met with individual clergy, and kept in contact through email and phone as need arose. Deanery clergy met 4 times. The Deanery hosted a workshop for Altar Servers (Server’s instructions for Hierarchical Liturgy) in February and a Youth Retreat (Gospel of John, Hieromonk Gerasim) in May. Both events brought good participation. Many thanks are, again, due Archpriest Nicholas Boldireff who was the point person for arranging our Deanery’s joining the Pacific Central Deanery’s Youth Camp, at St. Nicholas Ranch, Dunlap, California. There was still relatively small participation for the PSWD.
Respectfully submitted by,
Archpriest Lawrence Russell, Dean of PSWD
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2013 DOW Assembly 107 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
HOLY VIRGIN MARY CATHEDRAL LOS ANGELES CA
Clergy
V.REV.NICOLAS BOLDIREFF RECTOR
Committees/Societies
SISTERHOOD BOOK CLUB CHURCH SCHOOLS
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities REGULAR AKAFIST ALTERNATING SLAVONIC ENGLISH WITH DISCUSSIONS INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL FACELIFT TO OUR CHURCH PROPERTY
Outreach and Charitable Activities LOVES RIDES TO CHURCH AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE SEVERAL POETRY READING SUNDAYS WITH CHURCH TOURS SOS FUND ASSISTANCE TO NEEDY
Major Challenges Faced MANY RECENT CHANGES IN THE CLERGY AND MORE TO COME… PEOPLE MOVING IN AND OUT OF LA AREA DUE TO PRESENT ECONOMY
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
CHURCH FEASTDAY SUNDAY FEB 2 ND WE HOPE TO HAVE METROPOLITAN TIKHON WITH US
2013 DOW Assembly 108 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 75 75 75
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 90 90 90 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 60 60 60 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 15 15 15 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 9 7 6
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 15 17 4
Funerals 9 8 7
Marriages 1 1 3
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 1 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 65 65 65
Adult Education/Number 16 16 16 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 109 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St. Herman Orthodox Church 142 West Wooley Road Oxnard, CA 93030 Clergy Archpriest Paul Waisanen-Rector Committees/Societies Finance committee plans the yearly budget. The choir. The parish council plans everything else. Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
* Monthly participation in the "Friends of St. Barbara Monastery: The last Sunday of the month, * Wednesdays:, followed by Evening Vespers and Reading in the Fathers. This year we have been reading St John Chrysostom Homilies on Ephesians * Celebration of our Feast Day in December. 2012 Fr. Isaac Skidmore concelebrated Pascha with Fr. Paul/ Visit of His Grace Benjamen visit cancelled due to Hierarchical meeting in the middle East. Weekly we have a 2-3 hour study in Holy Tradition in the Wednesday or Friday morning with those who are seeking to grow in the Orthodox Way. We have vigorous and reportedly inspiring discussions. David Dickens put our Liturgy Book on a disk so we can make copies as they wear out. Outreach and Charitable Activities . Charities include IOCC. CCMC. Ventura Rescue Mission, OCA charities, Focus North America, The Hawaii mission, The St. Silas Prison Ministry, St Barbara’s and St. John of Shanghai, *Church door charities. Fr. Yousuff Zaki and the Coptic parishers under his care, ceased using our facilities for meetings and services. We parted on very good terms and have continued care for each other. We have updated our web site and have it regularly cared for by Lazarus Anderson. http://www.saintherman.us, . A young man has created utube videos of some of Fr. Paul’s teaching, as well as recordings of some of the Sunday homilies. Fr. Paul’s homilies are accessible at Fr Paul Waisanen on utube/ Fr. Paul has a blog called: OrthodoxytheradiCALMiddle Major Challenges Faced We were not able to purchase St. Demetrios Sanctuary, because we regarded the opportunity as too risky.. Our growth is held back with a small parking lot, but we highly value our present opportunity for ministry. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2012 to September 2013 th 38 Anniversary Feast this December.
2013 DOW Assembly 110 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 40 34 34
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 31.8 29 29 Attendance
Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 30.2 23 24 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 4-8 4-8 4-8 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 1 1 1
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2 1 0
Funerals 1 2 0
Marriages 0 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 0 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 7 6 0
Adult Education/Number 36 32 32 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 111 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Vladimir Orthodox Church 1328 Castillo St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Clergy
Archbishop Benjamin – in charge Archpriest Alexander Shkalov
Committees/Societies
None
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Visit of diocesan hierarch
Outreach and Charitable Activities
None
Major Challenges Faced
Membership size
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
2013 DOW Assembly 112 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 10 - 15 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 5 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 3 - 5 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 0
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 1
Funerals 0
Marriages 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 0
Adult Education/Number 0 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 113 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo Orthodox Church of the Annunciation
Clergy Archpriest Lawrence Russell
Committees/Societies Fundraising Committee Board for Gobezie Goshu Home
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
Icons of Pantocrator and Enthroned Virgin completed Successful Dinner with Ukrainian Food Engaging interactions during series on Orthodox Spirituality
Outreach and Charitable Activities
Gobezie Goshu Home for Elderly Good Samaritan Shelter Community Action Commission
Major Challenges Faced
Broad participation in Divine Services Broad participation in Fundraising
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
2014 Benefit Concert
2013 DOW Assembly 114 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 42 45 49
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 60 60-65 60-65 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 50 55 55 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 10-20 10-20 10-20 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 8 4 2
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 3 2 4
Funerals 1 1 0
Marriages 0 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 2 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 20 22 22
Adult Education/Number 15-20 15-20 15-20 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 115 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
St. Innocent Orthodox Church (1955) 5657 Lindley Ave. Tarzana, CA
Clergy
Priest Yousuf Rassam, Rector Deacon Nicholas Denysenko, attached Committees/Societies SOSI, (Society of St. Innocent)
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 40th Anniversary of the building of our current temple, celebrated with our temple feast, Vigil and Liturgy with Archbishop Benjamin, Dec. 1-2, 2012. Hosted Pacific Southwest Deanery Youth Retreat, May 18, 2013.
Outreach and Charitable Activities Served Pre-Sanctified at Loyola Marymount University for Orthodox students and interested students and faculty. Retreat with Father Gerasim (Eliel) July 9, 2013, attended well.
Major Challenges Faced Dealt with a termite infestation in the temple. Raised money for regilding the cupola, a project that should be finished before the end of the year.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
2013 DOW Assembly 116 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 45 45 45
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 75 89 89 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 45 45 50 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil (vespers) 15 (vespers) 15 (vespers) 16 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 2 8 3
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 6 23 2
Funerals 3 5 5
Marriages 1 1 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 1 0
Church School/Number Enrolled 21 21 28
Adult Education/Number 15, in Lent, 9 7 – 10 10 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 117 Delegate Book 2 Rocky Mountain Deanery Archpriest Anthony Karbo, Dean
Beloved Master, Fathers, Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The clergy of the Rocky Mountain Deanery meet, communicate, and support one another regularly throughout the year. Together we discuss and plan details of our deanery sponsored activities (Summer Camp, Winter Retreat, Project. Mexico, Divide blessing, new missions, etc.). In “official” meeting we encourage one another with respect to priest/family well-being, parish finances, and pastoral issues encountered. There exists a strong sense of brotherhood amongst deanery clergy as we share our lives and experiences through these meetings and common events.
Our deanery participates in the many pan-Orthodox events up and down the front range. Our own camps and retreats have been instrumental in enabling the youth across jurisdictions form deep and rewarding bonds of fellowship. Fr. John Armstrong continues to serve as president of the Rocky Mountain Orthodox Clergy Brotherhood. This body sponsors annual funding events for OCMC and IOCC, as well as oversees participation in Sunday evenings of Lent pan-Orthodox vespers gatherings throughout the state. Fr. Alexander Vallens is a valued asset to to our area, sacrificially assists the parishes and priests of the deanery, and across jurisdictions. Fr. Alexander serves the newly formed mission in Parker, CO on a monthly basis. Fr. Daniel Jones faithfully oversees the western frontier of the deanery, Fr. Zechariah guards the southern boundaries, and Fr. Symeon keeps watch to the east.
This year we welcomed two new priests, Fr. Benjamin Huggins and Fr. Alexis Baldwin - and their respective families - to our deanery. Fr. Benjamin is assigned to the new mission in Durango, CO. Fr. Alexis is serving in Colorado Springs with the explicit goal of establishing a new mission in town. We also welcome to the larger Rocky Mountain area two other priests, Fr. John Peck (Billings), and Fr. David Morrison (Bozeman). We eagerly look forward to their participation in our geographic deanery brotherhood and events. Fr. John joined us for our Fall deanery meeting, and Fr. David for our Youth Camp!
A great loss to our deanery is the moving on of Fr. David Lowell, as he pursues graduate studies in England. He beautifully transitioned the faithful of Holy Transfiguration through the loss of Archpriest Joseph of blessed memory, and was a valued asset to the deanery and our diocese. In his place we welcome Fr. Kyrill Williams and family. Fr. Kyrill is a “son of Holy Theophany”, thus no stranger to our deanery. We welcome him and family and look forward to many profitable years of ministry together with them.
Photos of a small portion of our deanery activities follow….
Respectfully submitted, Archpriest Anthony Karbo
2013 DOW Assembly 118 Delegate Book 2 Fr. Benjamin Huggins, having a bit too much fun at RMOYC ’13…!???
Fr. David Morrison shares a “mountain top experience” with the teens - RMOYC ’13, 180 participants!
2013 DOW Assembly 119 Delegate Book 2 Fr. Zechariah Lynch… the younger clergy have yet to grasp that camp is for the kids!
Winter Teen retreat - 30 youth participants
2013 DOW Assembly 120 Delegate Book 2 Frs. David, Symeon, and Anthony at the Continental Divide Blessing of Waters
2013 DOW Assembly 121 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St. Mary’s Holy Dormition Orthodox Church 19485 Calhan Highway Calhan, CO 80808
Clergy Priest Simeon B. Johnson – Acting Rector
Committees/Societies • Rose-Marie Club • St. Tikhon’s Restoration Committee • Slavic Fest Committee • Cemetery committee • Choir/Liturgical Music Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 1. Transition from Fr. Lawrence Gaudreau to Fr Simeon 2. 10th annual Slavic fest 3. Installation of the Iconostasis in St. Tikhon’s Chapel and celebration of the First liturgy since 2000 on Bright Monday. Outreach and Charitable Activities 1. Annual Thanksgiving and Christmas Food Baskets to needy families 2. Support of the newly established Eastern Plains Community Pantry in Calhan 3. Black Forest Fire relief Major Challenges Faced 1. Erratic income of farming and ranching makes for erratic parish income 2. Rebuilding church school 3. Evangelizing/retaining our youth and young people. 4. Improving the sense of “community” between those who live in the area and those who commute from a distance. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
11th Annual Slavic Fest – October 2013 Continued Moliebens in time of drought
2013 DOW Assembly 122 Delegate Book 2
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 60 58 54
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 65 65 60 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 60 60 60 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 12 12 15 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 0 2 0
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 1 3 1
Funerals 1 1 0
Marriages 1 1 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 2 0
Church School/Number Enrolled N/A N/A N/A
Adult Education/Number 8 8 N/A Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 123 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo Holy Theophany 2770 N. Chestnut St. Colorado Springs, CO 80907
Clergy
Archpriest Anthony Karbo Priest Alexis Baldwin
Committees/Societies Parish Council “Mom's Study Group” Women's Book Study Men's Study Group Youth Group Southern Colorado OCF (UCCS, CC, PPCC, AFA) Agia Sophia Board Community Garden
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 1) Addition of Fr. Alexis Baldwin and his family to our parish community, with explicit purpose 2013 DOW Assembly 124 Delegate Book 2 of developing mission potential of Agia Sophia Bookstore and therefrom starting a mission parish in town. 2) Hosting Frs. Benjamin Huggins and David Morrison and their families over the summer, both from this parish, both new seminary grads. Celebrating the feast of Pentecost with them, serving with them at our annual summer camp, and welcoming them back to the diocese and geographic deanery.
3) Hosted Spring '13 Deanery Mtg of rectors and respective Matushki – inclusive of presence of our beloved chancellor, Fr. Ian.
Outreach and Charitable Activities Agia Sophia Bookstore and Coffee House: recognized as “Best of 'Springs – '13” - hosting various local groups, and college classes for “on the house” nights Community Garden Colorado College Soup Kitchen participation monthly, with collection and offerings Project Mexico Trip, inclusive of 2 full-time staff, and two summer interns RMOYC '13 – 180 participants, 66 from Holy Theophany “Mobile Chapel” planned and built for use at farmers' markets, festivals, fairs both locally and throughout the region
Major Challenges Faced - Implement vision to establish an Orthodox Christian presence within 90 minutes of any town throughout S. Colorado – priority areas identified/targeted - train up “tent-maker” priests (i.e. self-supporting) for target areas of witness and ministry throughout S. Col. - inertia from within... distractions from without
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 40th anniversary of parish – Sept. '14 Annual Winter Teen Retreat – Dec. '13 Annual Project Mexico and Summer Camp participation Summer '14 Annual “Blessing of Waters – Continental Divide” - Jan. '14
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 90 102 105
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 165 165 175 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 105 120 140 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 75 75 80 Attendance
2013 DOW Assembly 125 Delegate Book 2 Number of Catechumens 18 23 15
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 19 24 13
Funerals 1 2 3
Marriages 1 2 3
Receptions into Orthodoxy
Church School/Number Enrolled 35 40 45
Adult Education/Number 20 15 25 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 126 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo Saint Andrew’s Orthodox Church 298 Bert Street Delta, Colorado, 81416 Clergy Archpriest Daniel Jones Deacon David Fabula Subdeacon Cyril Stagner Readers: David Pertz, Daniel Showalter Committees/Societies Parish Council Flowers and Adornment Sisterhood functions Altar Servers Choir Building and Grounds Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
2013 DOW Assembly 127 Delegate Book 2 How it humbles to say it, but, we are the Body of Christ, the local indigenous Church in Delta, Colorado. When we are gathered together in the Divine Liturgy we manifest the Kingdom of God, Delta, Colorado, U.S.A. We humbly try to live up to, and into this calling, in church and outside of church. We had an extraordinary celebration of our parish feast day in November that included most of our parish and nearly all our active deanery clergy, as well as other visitors, both clergy and faithful. In the midst was our heavenly patron the Holy First-Called Apostle Andrew, joined by the miraculous icon and holy relics of Saint Ann the Mother of the Theotokos, as well as the holy relics and priestly stole of Saint Seraphim of Sarov. Words fail to describe the spiritual and festive presence at the celebration. We also hosted the current abbot of Saint Tikhon’s monastery in Pennsylvania, Abbot Sergios. The Father Abbot gave a series of spiritually nourishing talks as well as the homily at the Feast Day Divine Liturgy. We continue to support Father Philumen and the Saints Cyril and Methodios Mission as well as the Panaghia Parish in Soroti, Uganda. This support is given as regular financial donations, that all fall outside of the normal parameters of pledges and financial support for Saint Andrew’s. That is to say the parishioners give support over and above and outside Saint Andrew’s regular budget. We continued to be amazed as a small parish in western Colorado to have this connection with the support and spreading of the Holy Gospel in Uganda, Africa. We often have visitors from other parishes. Earlier in the year we had a visitor at Sunday Liturgy from a traditionally Orthodox Country. In that country you would find an Orthodox Church every few blocks in a large city and many Orthodox Churches in a small village the size of our Delta. After Liturgy the visitor reported: “They drove up to the church and saw that the outside of the building was what they called ‘American Style,’ but on the inside they found the same Orthodox Faith, the same Church, they would have expected to find anywhere in their own country. There are other examples and activities that might be reported on from among the faithful, the youth, the feast days, but to sum things up in brief, we try to live as a spiritually alive and vibrant community of Orthodox Christians.
Outreach and Charitable Activities We give locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally, within and outside of official Orthodox Church charity organizations. This is funded by a charity line item in the parish budget, but the funding exceeds the budget on many fronts. Additionally local parishioners are involved in local charity outreach.
Major Challenges Faced The usual financial and spiritual challenges are certainly existent; simply making enough money to pay for the rising cost of living on a parish level, day to day; the continual challenge of maturing new Orthodox Christians to fulfill regular existent parish duties from those who have served well for years; new things needed and but not yet attained; and simply trying to carry out the apostolic injunctions contained in the Gospel and the Epistles and other sacred scripture. But in general Saint Andrew’s is characterized by generosity and hospitality, love is genuine, there is no infighting, we work well together and we pray well together according to our ability.
Page 2 of 3 2013 DOW Assembly 128 Delegate Book 2 All of the Liturgical and yearly hallmarks of being an Orthodox Parish from the fullest Pascha to the smallest basket of grapes and first-fruits. It is hoped that an eternal dimension is recognized and seized upon in the small events that make up parish and human life.
Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 All of the Liturgical and yearly hallmarks of being an Orthodox Parish from the fullest Pascha to the smallest basket of grapes and first-fruits. It is hoped that an eternal dimension is recognized and seized upon in the small events that make up parish and human life.
Reported for Reported for As of September Calendar Year Calendar Year 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 43 39 37
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 85 80 78 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 75 75 70 Communicants
Average Saturday Vigil Attendance 53 45 50
Number of Catechumens 2 5 2
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 2 3 6
Funerals 0 1 2
Marriages 0 2 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy
Church School/Number Enrolled
Adult Education/Number Participating
Page 3 of 3 2013 DOW Assembly 129 Delegate Book 2
DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo
Holy Transfiguration of Christ Orthodox Cathedral (1898) 349 E 47th Avenue Denver, CO 80216-2702
Clergy Archpriest David Lowell, Rector Priest Alexander Vallens, Associate Priest Archpriest Eugene Tarris, attached Archpriest James Worth, attached Protodeacon Averky Davis Deacon Antony Dyl Priest Kyrill Williams, arriving September 1, 2013 – New Rector Committees/Societies St. Mary’s Altar Society Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities
1) Old Globeville Days and Orthodox Food Festival, July 20 & 21, 2013 – highly successful neighborhood festival and fundraising event. 10th annual festival and best so far! 2) Parish Feast Day with Great Vespers, reception and Hierarchal Divine Liturgy and luncheon with Archbishop Benjamin, August 5-6, 2013 3) St. Sava Festival, January 2013
Outreach and Charitable Activities
1) On-going involvement with Globeville Neighborhood Planning Committee 2) On-going involvement with Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver who are building and renovating homes in Globeville and are hosting the Carter Work Project in October, 2013 3) Pan-Orthodox Dinner Dance and auction hosted by our parish, with a portion of proceeds going to Project Mexico 4) Regular deliveries of non-perishable food and toiletries to local food bank
Major Challenges Faced Smooth transition of outgoing Rector, Archpriest David Lowell, and incoming family of Fr. Kyrill and Tamra Williams. Several parishioners are in poor health and have become home-bound or are in nursing homes.
2013 DOW Assembly 130 Delegate Book 2 Visiting them and taking them Holy Communion on a regular basis. Several members moved away, seeking jobs elsewhere. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014
Jimmy and Roslyn Carter Project work week with Habitat for Humanity in Globeville, October 6-12, 2013.
Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 96 114 109
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 130 102 120 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 98 98 100 Communicants Average Saturday Vigil 15 15 15 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 6 6 6
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 6 14 14
Funerals 3 4 5
Marriages 1 3 3
Receptions into Orthodoxy 2 1 1
Church School/Number Enrolled 40 40 38
Adult Education/Number 37 25 20 Participating
2013 DOW Assembly 131 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St. Herman Orthodox Christian Church 991 W. Prentice Ave. Littleton, CO 80121 303-798-7306 www.StHermanOCA.org
Clergy Archpriest John Armstrong, rector Deacon John Manutes Deacon Panayiotis Tekosis (returned from a year of study at St. Tikhon’s Seminary)
Committees/Societies 1. Parish Council; 2. Bylaws Committee; 3. “Dipes & Wipes”; 4. Prison Ministry; 5. Youth Ministry; 6. Young Adult Ministry; 7. Choir; 8. Adult Ed.; 9. Church School; 10. Intro to Orthodoxy; 11. Bake Sale
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities 1. One of our parishioners, Vince Streech, chose to do his Eagle Project for Scouts at the church. He cleared out a large section of wasp-infested shrubs and planted a beautiful oak tree in it’s place. 2. We did a major revision of our parish bylaws and held a special parish meeting to approve them. 3. Fr. John did the teaching at this year’s summer camp, which was the largest ever with 150 young people (ages 6 to 18).
Outreach and Charitable Activities 1. OCMC Missionaries: We sponsored three missionaries with OCMC, one from our own parish. Unfortunately, she had to return to the States because of certain irreconcilable matters in the missions field where she was serving. 2. Monthly Charities: We continue to sponsor one charity per month. 3. “Dipes & Wipes,” a ‘gap’ ministry of Love INC: We continue to distribute hundreds of diapers and wipes to families in need. We hosted a recent gap-ministries leadership meeting at St. Herman. 4. Our ~4-year prison ministry at Hudson Correctional Facility (HCF) is coming to an end because the contract they had with the Alaskan DOC ends Oct. 1. They have sent 700 of the 1000 incarcerated men back to Alaska to a new prison facility there. 5. Fr. John continues to mentor Denver Seminary students and has been asked to teach three classes this Fall on the Orthodox Faith.
Major Challenges Faced 1. “Sunday-only” Orthodox Christians even among converts. 2. Volunteering/Commitment/Ownership/Stewardship/Service 3. The poor economy and its impact on giving. However, for now, things are stable and good.
Upcoming Special Events / Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 1. Bake Sale in October 2. 41st Parish Anniversary
2013 DOW Assembly 132 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Fair Share Membership Count 51 61 48
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 79 94 86 Attendance Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 50 65 75 Communicants Average Saturday Great Vespers 25 25 20 Attendance
Number of Catechumens 7 3 5
Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 5 8 4
Funerals 2 3 1
Marriages 1 1 1
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 2 1
Church School (# enrolled) 25 38 43
Adult Education (# participating) 20 20 20
2013 DOW Assembly 133 Delegate Book 2 DOW PARISH ANNUAL REPORT for the 2013 Diocesan Assembly
Parish Name and Address Photo St. Micheal’s Orthodox Church (1903) 801 W. Summit Ave. Pueblo, CO 81004
Clergy Priest Zechariah Lynch
Committees/Societies Parish Council (six members plus rector) Eternal Mysteries Bookstore Festival Coordinator (elected at All Parish Meeting) Church School
Since October 2012 Highlights of Top Three Activities Continued renovation of our grounds, including: expanding the water wise flower garden, addition of walkways, and the erection of a 6 ½ feet tall three-bar Cross. The addition of a handicap ramp, now making our church handicap accessible. The Parish annual festival was combined with an Icon Exhibit in 2012. The exhibit featured Icons from the late 1800's to the present. Three lectures were also given on various subjects related to Icons. The exhibit and lectures were very well attended. In November our parish was blessed to host Igumen Sergius of St. Tikhon's Monastery, as he was traveling with a wonder-working Icon of St. Anna and the Epitrahelion of St. Seraphim of Sarov.
Outreach and Charitable Activities A monthly ministry at the local homeless shelter. Special collections are taken periodically and sent to various local and national charities. Participation in the local right to life activities. Sporadic local humanitarian needs that we try and meet within our capabilities.
Major Challenges Faced This past year we had a number of families move due to work, this neutralized all our growth. Continued Evangelism: how to bring the Orthodox faith effectively to our city. Tight finances, most outreach, or other such things, requires a certain monetary investment, We are finding ways to raise money for various needs and outreaches. Upcoming Special Events/Anniversaries - October 2013 to September 2014 Annual Festival, this year in conjunction with talks on Ancient Christian Worship 110th Parish Anniversary
2013 DOW Assembly 134 Delegate Book 2 Reported for Reported for As of September 1, Calendar Year Calendar Year 2013 2011 2012
Fair Share Membership Count 26 26 26 Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 40 Attendance 43 40 Average Sunday Divine Liturgy 35 Communicants 37 35 Average Saturday Vigil 16 Attendance 16 16
Number of Catechumens 4 5 8 Reported for Reported for January 1 thru Calendar Year Calendar Year September 1, 2011 2012 2013
Baptisms 0 3 1
Funerals 3 0 2
Marriages 0 0 0
Receptions into Orthodoxy 0 1 3
Church School/Number Enrolled 7 9 7 Adult Education/Number Participating 8 10 9
2013 DOW Assembly 135 Delegate Book 2