the official newspaper of the archeparchy of pittsburgh vol. 54 no. 3 sunday, march 1, 2009

souper helpers forgiveness farewell, fr. ellis Brownsville ECF students do ByzanTEENS, adults attend pre- New Orleans mission loses their share to feed the hungry. lenten services at the cathedral. its longtime shepherd. Page 5 Pages 6 & 7 Page 11 Inside

NOCERCC convention: ‘Welcoming the Word Planted in You’ metropolitan basil represents eastern church, visits byzantine faithful in albuquerque

The National Organization for Continuing Education of Roman Catholic Clergy (NOCERCC) met for its 36th annual convention in Albuquerque, N.M. Feb. 16- 19. “Welcoming the Word Planted in You – the Ministry of the Word in the Ongoing Formation of Priests” was the Great Fast theme of the 2009 gathering. As the Letter of James invites reflections priests and all Christians to welcome the Word planted in us at (1:21), the gathering to air on explored what is required for ongoing formation to support CATV 95 priests and presbyterates in ever more faithfully and Beginning on the first day of effectively carrying out the the Great Fast and continuing teaching office. Pictured following the celebration of at Our Lady of Perpetual Help through Great and Holy Donald Wuerl, Week, Christian Associates Church in Albuquerque, N.M. are (left to right) Gerald Sondergaard, Father Washington, D.C., gave the Christopher Zugger, Metropolitan Basil, Father Kurt Burnette, pastor of the host Television (CATV) will air keynote address, which centered parish, and Deacon Brian Escobedo. “Reflections for the Great on the recent Synod of : Fast” over Comcast Channel On the Word of God. On each 95 (included in the cable line- of the days, the main address between the three presbyteral formation. Breakout Sessions up in the City of Pittsburgh). was centered on “The Ministry offices of teaching, sanctifying followed that included topics Presented by clergy and of the Word and Human and governing and of the on: Emotional Availability, religious of the Archeparchy, Formation.” This included the human, spiritual, intellectual the series will feature exploration of the relationship and pastoral dimensions of NOCERCC continued on page 3 brief reflections which are appropriate to the theme of each week of the Great Fast as well as Holy Week. The Pittsburgh Byzantine Catholic Archeparchial Choir (pictured above) also recorded several Jaycees honor Deacon Dr. George Fatula appropriate hymns at CATV receives distinguished service award to enhance the presentations. by Dena Bosak, Tri-County Sunday Each weekly reflection is expected to air at least twice DU BOIS, PA - He is a presented annually by the daily. The reflections will also successful and dedicated pedia- DuBois Area Jaycees. be available for viewing on trician who has touched the This presentation was the Archeparchy’s web site at lives of many. His colleagues made Saturday [Jan. 31] by www.archeparchy.org. think the world of him. He DuBois Area Jaycees President Outside of the City, gives back to the community Sam Wilson. It was part of select CATV programs may and is described as a family the program for the Greater be available for regional man. DuBois Chamber of Commerce viewing on Comcast’s “On Dr. George M. Fatula is and Economic Development’s Demand” menu under Local this year’s recipient of the Programming/Worship. n Distinguished Service Award Fatula continued on page 3 page 2 sunday, march 1, 2009 Vespers Greater Pittsburgh

UPS 081500 at the Protopresbytery celebrates ISSN 07442289

Official publication of the Seminary Great Fast Vespers Archeparchy of Pittsburgh every sunday celebrations to be held every sunday Byzantine Catholic Press Associates throughout the during month of march 66 Riverview Avenue great fast 2009 Pittsburgh, PA 15214 On every Sunday during the Great Fast, Vespers will be celebrated Tel: 412.231.4000 The Byzantine Catholic at 3:30. p.m. at a different parish of the Greater Pittsburgh Fax: 412.231.1697 E-mail: [email protected] Seminary of SS. Cyril and Protopresbytery, with a different homilist each week. The Mystery Web site: www.archeparchy.org Methodius invites the faithful of Reconciliation (Confession) will be available from 3:00 to 3:30 to participate in Sunday Ves- p.m. to each Vespers service. Following each Vespers service, Annual Subscription Rates pers at 5:00 p.m. during the congregants are invited to gather in the church social hall for a modest US $12.00 Great Fast, beginning Mar. 1 meal of Lenten soup and bread. n Canadian $14.00 International $16.00 in the Seminary chapel at 3605 Published every three weeks Perrysville Avenue, Pittsburgh. by Pittsburgh Byzantine Catholic Each week, the homilist will GREAT FAST VESPERS - Sundays at 3:30 p.m. Press Associates focus on the theme of the Mystery of Reconciliation at 3:00 p.m. particular Sunday to help par- President ticipants reflect on their journey His Eminence, Metropolitan Basil Sunday Church / Location Homilist to the Feast of Pascha. March 1 John the Baptist Fr. George Gallaro Copy Editor All are enthusiastically in- Sister Elaine Kisinko, OSBM vited to attend Sunday Vespers Lyndora, Pa. and “clothe themselves with March 8 Saint John Chrysostom Fr. Dennis Bogda Layout and Graphics the armor of light.” For Pittsburgh, Pa. Darlene Fejka information about any of the March 15 SS. Peter & Paul Msgr. Russell Duker Circulation Manager Sunday Vespers services at the Braddock, Pa. Donna Obsincs Byzantine Catholic Seminary, please call 412-321-8383 or March 22 Holy Ghost Deacon Paul Simko Business Manager visit the Seminary website at North Side Pittsburgh Steven Horger www.byzcathsem.org. March 29 St. John Cathedral Fr. David Bosnich Address manuscripts and business Munhall, Pa. communications to: See schedule below. The Byzantine Catholic World 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214

Change of Address/Postmaster GREAT FAST VESPERS AT THE SEMINARY OF SS. CYRIL AND METHODIUS Send all changes to: SUNDAYS - MARCH 1 - APRIL 5, 2009 at 5:00 p.m. The Byzantine Catholic World ATTN: Donna Date Celebrant Homilist 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 March 1 Fr. Valerian Michlik Fr. Valerian Michlik Mystery of Reconciliation Please allow two to three weeks 30 minutes before Vespers March 8 Fr. David M. Petras Fr. David M. Petras for changes of address. March 15 Fr. John G. Petro Fr. Jason Del Vitto Byzantine Catholic Seminary Member of Catholic Press Association March 22 Fr. David Bosnich Fr. David Bosnich 3605 Perrysville Avenue Associate Member of Associated Press Pittsburgh, PA 15214 March 29 Fr. Ron Larko Deacon Daniel Forsythe 412-321-8383 www.byzcathsem.org April 5 Fr. Stephen Wahal Fr. Stephen Wahal

Periodicals Postage Paid at Pittsburgh, PA mission Oops! Pardon our error ... The mission of The Byzantine The Byzantine Catholic Catholic World is to teach World offers an apology and begs the pardon of Reverend the Gospel message in Dr. Eric Brown of the African the rich tradition of the Episcopal Methodist (AME) correction On page 1 of the Feb. Byzantine ; Church, Pittsburgh District, whose photo was omitted from 8, 2009 issue of The to encourage people to the Feb. 8 article ‘Western Pa. Byzantine Catholic World, reflect the image of Christ Christian leaders, congregants the article ‘Byzantines offer join in prayer at Cathedral.’ unique witness at March in everyday activities of life; The story covered the closing for Life ‘09’ incorrectly to offer spiritual formation service of the annual Week of stated that “. . . Americans gathered to mark the through changing times; Prayer for Christian Unity at St. John Cathedral, Munhall, 30th anniversary of the and to celebrate community Pa. on Sunday afternoon, Jan. infamous Supreme Court among Byzantine Catholics 25. A photo of Reverend Greg decision Roe v. Wade . . .” The 2009 March for Life around the Archeparchy of Golden, Anne Ashley United Methodist Church, Munhall, was the 36th anniversary Pittsburgh and throughout the Pa. was mistakenly repeated of the infamous 1973 Roe Metropolitan Church. in the spot where Dr. Brown's v. Wade Supreme Court Reverend Dr. Eric Brown decision. image was to have appeared. n AME Church, Pittsburgh District. sunday, march 1, 2009 page 3

NOCERCC: metropolitan basil represents eastern church continued from page 1 Integrating International were Archbishop Wuerl, Sunday of Meatfare with an Priests, Formation for Exegesis, David Walker of Australia, explanation of the Tryptych of , Very Reverend Philip Sandrick, the Great Fast: prayer, fasting Leadership, Cultivating Unity, OSBM, Provincial of the Order and almsgiving. Arrangements Word and Culture in Dialogue, of St. Basil the Great, and for the liturgy were coordinated Formation for Preaching and Reverend Kurt Burnette along by the Liturgical and Music Spirituality of Lectio Divina with Brian Escobedo Departments of the Archdiocese among others. and Jerry Sondergaard of of Santa Fe along with the Presently the NOCERCC Our Lady of Perpetual Help pastor, cantor and choir of is a membership association Byzantine Catholic Church in Our Lady of Perpetual Help of 170 dioceses and religious Albuquerque. The Metropolitan Church. communities in the United centered his homily on the During his visit , Metropolitan States as well as 50 other gospel reading from the Basil also had the opportunity to Stressing prayer, fasting and organizations and individuals almsgiving, Metropolitan Basil from around the world. The addresses the faithful. NOCERCC recognizes that the resources which they offer can also be of benefit to the clergy celebrate the Divine Liturgy at and monastic communities of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Eastern Churches. Among those Meatfare Sunday, Feb. 15. The in attendance was Metropolitan Metropolitan was graciously Basil, the episcopal contact welcomed by the parish com- between this organization munity to their church, a and the Committee on Clergy, parish of the of Van and Vocations Nuys, where he enjoyed a pre- of the United States Conference Great Fast luncheon following of Catholic Bishops. the liturgical celebration. Re- Metropolitan Basil was the marked a grateful parishioner, celebrant and homilist at the “It is so wonderful to meet the opening Divine Liturgy of the Metropolitan [who] we pray Faithful receive Communion at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Byzantine Catholic convention on Monday evening, Church, Albuquerque, N.M., where Archbishop Basil celebrated Divine Liturgy on for at each Divine Liturgy!”n Feb. 16. The concelebrants Feb. 15, the Sunday of Meatfare.

Fatula: receives distinguished service award continued from page 1 annual gala held at the DuBois pediatric practice in western the same level regardless of faculty and a concussion head Country Club. Pennsylvania and selected his patients’ ability to pay,” injury program for athletes, was The award is given to a man DuBois. Wilson said. He never refused instituted by UPMC. or woman from the DuBois “And in the decades since, a family on state assistance He was an Eagle Scout area based on three criteria: he has become a complete and provided many hours of and served two years as the success in his or her chosen presence in a broad community care to Amish children with, president of the Bucktail vocation and service to God comprised of at least four rural perhaps, a quilted wall hanging Council. He is now a member and church. counties.” Wilson said. “He is as his only compensation. In of the executive board for The recipient is nominated an advocate for children’s health the unfortunate circumstance the council and has served as by the general public and is in primary care, premature where a child died as a result advancement chairman and as selected by a panel of current infant care, community sports of injury or illness, the family the merit badge counselor. He and past Jaycees presidents. programs, mental health never received a bill. was the camp physician for the “This year we received a services and the care of chronic Fatula was named Pediatri- National Boy Scout Jamboree number of wonderful nominees, and terminally ill children.” cian of the Year in Pennsylvania and is the Recipient of the Silver but one application stood out Fatula has been instrumental in 2006. Because of his Beaver award. from the rest,” Wilson said. in the establishment of satellite dedication to quality care, Fatula also: “It is remarkable what this clinics in DuBois for various he serves as the director of - Is active in the Knights of person has accomplished over subspecialties. Monthly clinics in pediatrics for DuBois Regional Columbus. the years, and I think you will cardiology, neurology and gas- medical Center, Wilson said. - Started the first rural NICU see just how we arrived at our troenterology from Children’s Fatula is also actively involved which has grown to a 16 bed decisions.” Hospital and Geisinger Medical in the community. unit. Wilson said this year’s recipi- Center have greatly improved He was a Little League - Served as a board member ent has touched many lives. access to care for rural patients manager and served on the for MHMR for 26 years “I know for a fact this person’s in the area. board for 15 years. He managed advocating mental healthcare. colleagues think the world of “While today, many patients the 1991 Little League team - Served as an instructor for him,” Wilson said. “When I are evaluated and treated by that won the Pennsylvania State pediatric and family practice contacted them to gather some emergency room physicians, Championship. medical schools for a number information for this speech, it (Fatula) and his partners have He served as the physician of medical education facilities. was hard to get off the phone. spent their on-call evenings and for both DuBois Area and - Authored a number of They just kept telling me all the weekends essentially camped Brookville Schools for more than articles in the Courier Express wonderful reasons the recipient in the hospital to see anyone in 30 years. He was the wrestling on pediatric wellness. deserved this award. I had to the practice that needed to be and football team physician. He - Received numerous recrui- explain, we already picked him; treated,” Wilson said. instituted many health programs tment and participation awards he won!” “While practicing in an area in both Brookville and DuBois in a number of clubs and organ- Wilson said in 1974, Fatula that is marginal economically, schools including Hepatitis B saw a need to open a general Fatula has provided care at immunizations for staff and Fatula continued on page 9 page 4 sunday, march 1, 2009

CATECHIST DAY “The Old Testament: Foreshadowing Christ” OF PRAYER AND Deacon Daniel Forsythe, presenter REFLECTION For more than 1500 years, the Old Testament has been studied and proclaimed liturgically by Christians of the Byzantine Tradition. It Saturday, March 7, 2009 has nourished the artistry of our iconographers, church architects and 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. hymnographers. This presentation will show how the ancient covenant prepared us for “the Messiah, the Son of the Living God.” (Mt. 16:16) SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary 3605 Perrysville Avenue Sponsored by the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh Office of Pittsburgh, Pa. Religious Education. Phone 412-322-8773 to register, or use form below.

CDPR Schedule 9:30 a.m. Registration/Coffee 10:00 a.m. The Torah and The Hebrew Story 11:00 a.m. Quiet time Reflection Mystery of Reconciliation 11:45 a.m. Lunch Byzantine Seminary Press will be open 12:45 p.m. The Prophets 1:45 p.m. Break 2:00 p.m. Psalms & Proverbs 3:00 p.m. Great Vespers Mystery of NOTE: This day of reflection is open to all interested adults. Reconciliation Departure

ORE offers Letters of St. Paul program deacons, laity trained to become presenters by Sister Marion Dobos, OSB - Director, Office of Religious Education

His Holiness, Benedict The classes ranged from six to thirty-one attendees for each of the XVI, has designated June 29, four sessions. The Office of Religious Education is grateful to the 2008 - June 29, 2009 as the following presenters who so graciously gave of their time and talents Year of St. Paul. Archbishop to help others grow spiritually: Basil requested that the Office of Religious Education develop • Jim Silvestri, Church of the Resurrection, Monroeville a program on St. Paul to be • Marcia Harrer, St. John the Baptist, Uniontown offered to all parishes in each • Gerry Rhoads, St. Pius X, Pittsburgh deanery (presbytery). The in- • Fr. Stephen Wahal, St. Michael, Donora spired letters of St. Paul are a • Deacon Tim Corbett, St. John Cathedral, Pittsburgh primary source of history and • Bill and Kathe Kress, Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks teaching of the early Church • Lori Downey, SS. Peter & Paul, Braddock and clearly influenced its early • Dana Tomcanin, St. Nicholas, Greensburg Several of the presenters are development. A group of laity • Mary Ellen Dudick, SS. Peter & Paul, Tarentum willing to teach the St. Paul and deacons attended training • Helen Kennedy, St. Mary, Bradenville sessions to become presenters classes again. The format for • Deacon Richard Ciganko, St. Mary, Homer City on the life of St. Paul and his the classes is a PowerPoint • Steve Puluka, Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks letters. These training classes presentation divided into four • Deacon Paul Simko, St. John, Lyndora were held in the fall of 2008 in sessions of two hours each. If the following deaneries: • Fr. Chris Burke, Infant Jesus of Prague, Boardman, OH there is any parish that would • Johnstown Catechists who attended these sessions received credit hours toward like to have these classes in adult • Pittsburgh their catechist certification. The majority of the attendees were from faith formation on St. Paul, • Mon Valley our Byzantine parishes, but there were Roman Catholics as well as his life and letters, contact the • North Central other denominations who took advantage of this opportunity. All Office of Religious Education • Clairton of the presenters noted that they were warmly received by the host at 412/322-8773 or e-mail • Youngstown pastor and parishioners who also provided refreshments. [email protected]. n parish news sunday, march 1, 2009 page 5

‘Souper’ kids do their part to help the hungry brownsville ecf students stage ‘souperbowl of caring’ by Ann Lesko On Saturday, Jan. 31 and Sunday, Feb. 1, 2009, the catechetical students of St. Nicholas Church in Brownsville, Pa., where Father Jerome Botsko is pastor, participated in the 2009 national “Souper Bowl of snack during the Superbowl Caring” project to help lessen game that others in their midst hunger in their community. may not have even a bowl of Organized 20 years ago soup to eat. to encourage teenagers to The St. Nicholas students work to alleviate hunger in directed their collections to America, the project is put into Crosskeys, Inc. of Brownsville, action annually on football’s which provides daily meals to Superbowl Sunday. more than 165 elderly poor Donations are collected in in the immediate Brownsville soup pots to remind those who area. n

Eastern Christian Formation students of St. Nicholas Church in Brownsville, Pa.

collected funds to help feed the hungry for the “Souper Bowl of Caring” project. Lesko Ann Pictured standing (left to right) are: Macy Bosworth, Anais Haftman, Carson Bosworth. Kneeling,(left to right) are Julia Mislo and Shawn Dirda. Missing from photo is Ava Kenney.

Girard parish a strong show at Pro-Life Breakfast parishioners of ss. cyril and methodius church support organization’s efforts by Victor Wheeler

People For Life, Inc. of Senior Editor of National the National Right to Life High wherever he goes. Erie, Pennsylvania held its the Review Magazine and author School Oratory Contest last Special recognition was given 31st Annual Pro-Life Prayer of the book “The Party of spring. The speech was based to SS. Cyril and Methodius Breakfast on Jan. 17 at the Death,” who gave a fine and on an essay which Joseph wrote Church for the strong showing Ambassador Banquet and compelling speech. that won him first place honors of participants at the breakfast, Conference Center in Erie. In Treating the audience to an in the 2008 statewide Student which was held on an extremely attendance were 19 members additional Pro-Life presenta- Essay Contest sponsored by frigid and snowy winter day. of SS. Cyril and Methodius tion was Erie area high school the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Fed- Father Andrew is doing an Church of Girard, Pa. and senior Joseph Caulfield, who eration. The sold-out crowd exemplary job on the Erie Pro- their pastor, Father Andrew gave his entire presentation by gave a standing ovation for the Life scene, as evidenced by the Deskevich. memory. He presented the very excellent presentation by Mr. strong showing of Byzantine Keynote speaker for the event impressive speech that earned Caulfield. Without a doubt this Catholics from his small yet

was Mr. Ramesh Ponnuru, him a trip to the state finals in young man will be a success active Girard parish. n VictorWheeler

Father Andrew Deskevich (fourth from right) accompanied his parishioners of SS. Cyril and Methodius Church, Girard, Pa. to the 31st Annual Pro-Life Prayer Breakfast , held Jan. 17 at the Ambassador Banquet and Conference Center in Erie. page 6 sunday, march 1, 2009

. . . The Great Fast 2009 begins byzanteens spend a day of reflection

Each year, youth of the of the Divine Liturgy. “We Archpriest Dennis Bogda, Archeparchy are invited to are fearful, but the Angel of Cathedral rector, youth mini- ponder the “last things” or the Lord burns away fear,” sters Steve and Janine Tima, details to begin the Great explained Deacon Daniel. “For and the wonderful parishioners Fast and the celebration of Isaiah, it was a coal; for us, it is of St. John’s Cathedral really Forgiveness Vespers. Pope the precious Blood of Christ.” made the teens’ day an awesome Benedict XVI has invited the Deacon Daniel continued with lead into Forgiveness Vespers Church to embrace the Year of his theme of preaching, saying and the church’s Lenten journey Preaching; thus, the theme for that Isaiah volunteers to be of swimming the ocean toward Great Fast 2009 is a follow-up sent, and so now we too can new life in Christ. above: “Give me an F!” ByzanTEENS to the Year of St. Paul. volunteer to be sent to preach The emotionally charged of the Archeparchy began their At the annual Fashengy, held by the lives we lead and the Forgiveness Vespers service was annual Fashengy at the Cathedral of Feb. 22 at the Cathedral of St. St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. words we speak. celebrated later that afternoon. by using their body-alphabets to spell John the Baptist in Munhall, Fellow teen Liz Corbett of Metropolitan Basil was the out the word “Fashengy.” Pa., ByzanTEENS engaged in a Holy Ghost Church, Charleroi, principal celebrant; Fathers number of activities for fun and Pa. followed with an artistic Dennis and Jim concelebrated. The photos on pages 6-7 were reflection. A warm welcome and creative PowerPoint pre- Along with the teens, over captured at the Feb. 22 Fashengy, and “ice-breaker” was led by Forgiveness Vespers and hospitality sentation on how teens can 100 faithful from both the meal by Timothy Weber. Fr. Jim Hess of the Archeparchy practically be preachers. Liz Cathedral and several churches of Pittsburgh Office of Youth conveyed that by living our lives in the Archeparchy were in and Young Adults. Applying through Jesus Christ, we must attendance. the event theme, Deacon be ever-mindful of how we act, A humble yet delicious Daniel Forsythe then invited how we treat others, what we hospitality meal of soup and the teens to see their role as say, and even what we think. bread prepared by St. John’s preachers. He skillfully began Amanda Trapp concluded parishioners was offered to all his presentation by focusing the teens’ preparation for present in the lower level of the on the call of Isaiah in the Old Forgiveness Vespers with lively Cathedral after the conclusion Testament and the celebration small group discussions. of vespers. n

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A ctivity spell the word

The following words pertain to the word PSALM Fill in the blanks; the first letters are already there!

P ______a writing form which sometimes rhymes S ______a ballad with lyrics A ______a liturgical prayer Ancient Poetry L ______an ancient stringed musical instrument and Song M ______a pattern of tones or notes SEE ANSWER KEY ON PAGE 11. by Sandy Simko

One of the five The shepherd carried a rod Old Testament and staff. The hook at the end books of poetry of this staff rescued many sheep and songs is the from the depths of ravines. Book of Psalms. Finding a cave for nighttime This collection of protection enabled the shepherd 150 poems and songs expresses to peacefully enjoy his meal of a deep relationship with God. fruits, olives and berries. The The English translation of the thorn branches covering the Greek word psalmos is psalm. cave’s entrance provided safety This term refers to a stringed from the nighttime animals. instrument such as a lyre. Interestingly, olive oil was used Shepherd When a psalm was sung, such a as a healing treatment for the

musical instrument would have scratches and cuts of the sheep. accompanied the singer. All these vivid, youthful There are psalms, songs and memories surfaced and came poems to read if you are scared, together in David’s well-known thankful, tempted, searching “The Lord is my shepherd” for wisdom or wanting to psalm. As you read David’s 23rd Good praise our God. King David psalm, do you see how he used is credited for the majority of his memories in composing this songs and poems in the Book song? The shepherd lovingly of Psalms. cared for and protected his Perhaps the most famous and flock just as God lovingly cares recognized psalm is Psalm 23 - for his flock the people. The The Lord, Shepherd and Host - a psalm of David. Thinking back The Lord is my shepherd; to his boyhood experiences, there is nothing I shall want. the selected Greek translation, prayers enriching us with the David had the background to Fresh and green are the pastures the number is different. beauty and meaning of this compose this song. As a young where he gives me repose. The psalms are used through- popular ancient form of poetry child, and the youngest boy Near restful waters he leads out the Divine Liturgy and the and song. in the family, it was David’s me, to revive my drooping Liturgy of the Presanctified As you follow along in Divine responsibility to care for his spirit. He guides me along the Gifts. The priest, the deacon Liturgy Book, you may be father’s flock of sheep. right path; he is true to his and the people participate surprised with the many times In his search for pastureland, name. in chanting and singing the you find a prayer identified as David saw hillsides covered If I should walk in the valley antiphons, communion hymns, a psalm. n in lush greenery with gentle of darkness no evil would I fear. the Alleluias and Prokeimenon sounds of water flowing and You are there with your crook cascading down the hillsides. and your staff; with these you In those areas where the grass give me comfort. was gone, only stony land was You have prepared a banquet seen. Standing under a shady for me in the sight of my foes. For Your Information tree was his only refuge from My head you have anointed with the hot sun. oil; my cup is overflowing. The names of the other 4 books of poetry The land was not always Your mercy, O Lord, shall in the Old Testament are: kind to the shepherd and his follow me all the days of my Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs. flock. Passing through narrow life. In the Lord’s own house and dark spaces between huge shall I dwell forever and ever. The authors besides David are: rock formations, the shepherd In the beginning pages of the Asaph, Sons of Korah, Solomon, Ethan and Moses. and animal could be prey to Divine Liturgy Book, you will the wild animals such as lions, find David’s psalm, however, it 50 psalms were anonymously written. jackals or panthers. is numbered psalm 22. Due to sunday, march 1, 2009 page 9 The scope of Fatula: distinguished scripture readings during the Great Fast service by Father James Spontak continued from page 3

The season of Each day at the sixth hour, wise sayings is that of human, izations in the DuBois Area. the Great Fast is which is one of the daily worldly wisdom. At the same - Serves as a deacon and a filled with rich liturgical services designed time, there is also religious religious education teacher and varied themes for prayer at noontime — the teaching. Thus, the recurring at the Nativity of the Mother and lessons that middle of the day, the Church message is that God rewards of God Byzantine Catholic cannot adequately prescribes a reading from the truth, charity, purity of heart Church. be represented by Book of Isaiah. These Old and humility, and punishes - In 1985, he received the any one image or concept. Yet Testament readings are known the contrary vices. Ultimately, Byzantine Catholic Man of the notion of the Church as as paremias. Prominent in all such virtues are based on the Year award from the “on the way,” journeying in a the late eighth century before wisdom, which amounts to a Archdiocese in [Archeparchy continual pilgrimage, captures Christ, and sensitive to the fear of God, a kind of ultimate of] Pittsburgh. Wilson said, something essential to the religious implications of the trust in Him. It soon becomes “Despite his vocation, family, mood and purpose of this holy social and political events obvious why the Book of and community service, he still season of the year. leading to the eventual fall of Proverbs was incorporated in finds time for service to God.” One element of greatfast Jerusalem and the exile of its the cycle of greatfast readings, When Fatula is not working, worship and discipline which inhabitants, the Holy Prophet for it served as a primer of he is very much a family man. contributes to this experience Isaiah constantly proclaims the practical wisdom in daily life “He has a great love for of the pilgrim church is the message of trust and confidence and offered moral instructions his wife, Renetta, who was a cycle of readings selected from in God. for the believer. young nursing student when the Old Testament during the Justice on the part of the The epistle and Gospel he met her at Washington and weekdays of the Great Forty- people and their rulers and readings prescribed for the Jefferson University,” Wilson Days’ Fast. sincerity in divine worship are Divine Liturgy on the Saturdays said. While the season of the Great concerns are found repeatedly and Sundays of the Great They have five children: Fast is itself an image of the at the core of Isaiah’s message. Forty-Days’ Fast are for the George, Renetta, Edward, Dan, journey of each person to his Besides the significance of the most part from the Epistle to and Tara, and five grandchild- or her heavenly destiny, it also content of his message, the the Hebrews and the Gospel ren with another on the way. serves as the last link in a chain zeal and intensity of this man of Mark. Once more, there “These are just a few of typical events: the forty years of God are a needed stimulus is a continual reminder of the examples of the hard work, of the Israelites’ wandering in in carrying out any effort of journey that is so characteristic commitment and dedication the desert, the forty-day march renewal and repentance during of the Great Fast as well as of (Fatula) has shown to the of Elijah to Mount Horeb the Holy Great Forty-Days’ the patient yet taxing effort DuBois and surrounding areas and the forty-day fast of our Fast. that is required of this pilgrim over the years,” Wilson said. Lord—each provide a symbolic During vespers, the Church’s Church and its members. The “As I collected information for and didactic basis for the forty official evening liturgical Letter to the Hebrews portrays this speech tonight, each person days of the Great Fast. service, there are readings this sense of pilgrimage with responded the same when I An appreciation of the selected daily from the books of its typology of the history of told them who had won. He liturgical and penitential Genesis and Proverbs. Many of , its illustration of is wonderful; there is not a features of the Holy Great Fast, the readings of Genesis present Jesus as the Great High Priest, more deserving person, perfect as well as of the accompanying the fundamental truths upon and its careful but vivid balance choice.” n meditations in this book which salvation rests, and thus of promise and fulfillment as its [Journey Through the Great deal with creation, the origin central themes. Deacon George serves in his Fast], can thus be enriched and destiny of humanity, the The Gospel of the Holy home parish, Holy Nativity of by some awareness of the reality of sin, and the promise Evangelist Mark presents Jesus the Mother of God, DuBois, Pa., use of the Holy Bible and the of redemption. with decided clarity in terms of where Very Reverend John J. selection of scriptural readings, Other readings from Genesis his role as a suffering Messiah, Mihalco is pastor. One Who invites his disciples particularly from the Old are taken from the “patriarchal Article originally published in to a way that will involve them Testament, during the season history” — the treasured the Courier-Express/Tri-County in sharing the same destiny and of the Great Forty-Days’ Fast. memories of Abraham, Isaac, Sunday newspaper, DuBois, Pa. end as their Lord. In our Byzantine Catholic Jacob and Joseph. Besides Jan. 31, 2009. Reprinted with The Church brings us to Church during the weekday displaying exemplary traits permission. greatfast liturgical services, of faith, wisdom and virtue, meet the Risen Christ Who is specifically at the sixth hour these patriarchal narratives the destination of our greatfast and vespers, the continuous contain features that will prove journey and acclaims Him as reading of Genesis, Isaiah, to be typical of the events of the “Great and Sacred Pasch, BYZANTINE and Proverbs forms the cycle the coming Redeemer and the the Wisdom, Power and Word DIVINE of God.” (Resurrection Matins of greatfast weekday lessons. salvation that He brings. In LITURGY The pattern and content of this this regard, Joseph’s words Canon, Ode 9) Coming to know Christ, the Word of God, cycle of readings is evidence summarizing the course and Sundays at 9:00 a.m. of that period when the Great outcome of the trying ordeal he by reading and reflecting upon WEDO Radio 810 AM Fast was still the principal experienced at the hands of his the Sacred Scriptures during pre-baptismal season of the brothers are a hint of similar the season of the Great Fast is a McKeesport, Pa. reliable and effective means of Church. The catechetical char- circumstances in the events Broadcast live from acter of greatfast services in of Jesus’ life: “You meant evil making more vivid this vision of the Risen Lord and more fully Holy Ghost Church their original context is an against me; but God meant McKees Rocks, Pa. important feature for those it for good, to bring it about realizing the joy of beholding who reflect upon these readings that many people should be his third-day Resurrection. n Send donations to: today. Thus, these selections kept alive, as they are today.” Article reprinted from “Journey Radio Apostolate are to be read and applied (Genesis 50:20, sixth Friday of Through The Great Fast,” 66 Riverview Avenue with an eye to a deepening the Great Fast) published by the Office of Religious Pittsburgh, PA 15214 and renewal of the Christian’s Sections from the Book Education, 2001. Available at baptismal commitment and of of Proverbs are also read at Byzantine Seminary Press, 3643 Perrysville Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA make checks payable to the life which flows from this vespers. Often, the dominant 15214. Web site: www.byzantines. Archeparchy of Pittsburgh holy mystery. tone of these collections of net/byzantinepress. page 10 sunday, march 1, 2009

thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras the pure of heart

The heart is associated with long as we are still held bound this is because in our Lord, “if anyone says, ‘I love God,” our desires and feelings. Our by mortal desires, we cannot be we do find that purity that is but hates his , he is a Lord tells us that our desires pure enough to see the glory of impossible to us as created liar; for whoever does not love must be “pure,” (in Greek, God. Here one is reminded of human beings, for Jesus, as a brother whom he has seen katharos). He was not reaching the prayer that the priest says God, took upon himself a cannot love God whom he has something new. Psalm 23 (24) before praying the Anaphora, created human nature, and not seen. (1 John 4:20)” tells us, “Who shall stand in “No one who is bound by “when he had accomplished Moses was told on the (the Lord’s) holy place. The carnal desires and pleasures purification from sins, he took mountain that he could not man with clean hands and a is worthy to come to you, to his seat at the right hand of see the face of God and live. pure heart, who desires not approach you, or to minister to the majesty on high.(Hebrews Yet that is what we desire worthless things. (Psalm 23:3- 1:3)” In Jesus our Lord, we as created human beings, to 4)” The “holy place” was, for find the purity that brings us somehow approach and attain the Jews, the Temple of the to God. to God. Any relationship Lord. After Christ, it became We must be aware of the with God is different from our any place in which we worship Our Lord warns kind of purity that is required. contacts with one another. We God. In Psalm 23, it is a us that at the Today, when we speak about cannot hear God nor see him question of desire, we “desire purity, we must often think without being transformed. not worthless things.” Psalm Second Coming, about carnal purity, about God’s very presence changes 41 (42) goes a step further, the purity of our physical and us. As Christians, we believe “My soul is thirsting for God, we will be judged sexual lives that is chastity. that in Jesus our Lord God the God of my life, when can I on our love for Someone who is pure is one took upon himself our human enter and see the face of God? who has not had unlawful nature, and that, seeing Jesus, (Psalm 41:3)” Purity is required one another. sexual pleasure. The Christian we see the face of God. When to stand in God’s presence, faith then becomes a matter of the chosen apostles were taken so in Psalm 50 (51), we pray, living chastely, without undue by the Lord to the heights of “A pure heart create for me, you, the King of glory. (Prayer pleasure. It is true that in Mount Tabor, Moses and Elijah O God, put a steadfast spirit of the Cherubicon)” To see society today there is a need appeared with Jesus when he within me. Do not cast me God requires purity of heart, a for a greater appreciation of was transfigured into his glory. away from your presence, nor detachment from false desires. carnal purity. We must be In the plan of God’s salvation, deprive me of your holy spirit. In the Beatitudes, Jesus tells us careful, though, not to let a to see God now does not bring (Psalm 50:12-13)” All these that we can now attain that preoccupation with sexual death but life. The mystery of passages would be well known purity, that we will see God. purity numb us to other kinds faith is resurrection. Jesus told to the people, and so our Lord The desire to see the face of of impurity that can keep us the Sadducees, “Concerning the explains in his sermon on the God was fulfilled in the coming from God. St. Paul tells us, resurrection of the dead, have mount, “Blessed are the pure of our Lord Jesus Christ. When “All bitterness, fury, anger, you not read what was said to of heart, for they will see God. Jesus was transfigured into the shouting, and reviling must be you by God, ‘I am the God of (Matthew 5:8)” glory that he had as God, he removed from you, along with Abraham, the God of Isaac, The preaching of our Lord took his three closest disciples, all malice. (Ephesians 4:31)” and the God of Jacob’? He is is building now to a climax. and there appeared with him We must set aside all tolerance not the God of the dead but The blessings to be received Elias and Moses, who had for injustice, and a lack of care of the living. (Matthew 22:31- become greater and greater. asked to see God’s glory. At for those in need. Our Lord 32) “ When we celebrate the Those who hunger and thirst the Last Supper, the Apostle warns us that at the Second Resurrection of Christ in our for righteousness will receive Phillip again asks the question Coming, we will be judged churches, we see that purity justice. Those who are merciful for what we all desire as on our love for one another, of heart brings us life and will receive mercy, but those human beings, “Master, show whether we fed the hungry, resurrection, that we will indeed who are pure in heart will us the Father, and that will be gave drink to the thirsty, visited “see God.” As we process to receive what was desired by enough for us. (John 14:8)” the sick and those in prison, the church doors to begin the the prophets: to see God. The Jesus answers him, “Whoever gave shelter and clothing to feast, we sing the sticheron of great prophet Moses desired to has seen me has seen the Father. those in need. Purity of heart Tone 6 for the Resurrection, see the face of God. (John 14:9)” Jesus is “the comprises control over all “Your resurrection, O Christ The Lord responded, “My refulgence of (God’s) glory, the the passions, and particularly our Savior, the angels praise face you cannot see, for no man very imprint of his being, who having a merciful loving kind- in heaven. Make us, on earth, sees me and still lives. (Exodus sustains all things by his mighty ness toward our neighbor. St. also worthy to extol and glorify 33:20)” In other words, as word. (Hebrews 1:3)” Perhaps John expresses this very clearly, you with a pure heart.” n

WHAT’S YOUR IDEA OF SPRING BREAK? Sandy beaches? We’ve got the banks of the Mon, the Allegheny and the Ohio. Exotic cuisine? Depending on when you visit, you can feast – or fast! – with us. Celebrations? Join us for Vespers, Matins, Compline, and the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts. New Experiences? Sit in on a theology class. Take some quiet time for prayer and meditation in our chapel. Cool People? Chill with the men who will be your priests someday. Byzantine Catholic men of college age (18-23) are warmly invited to consider spending a little unstructured time at the Seminary over spring break. Participate in as little or as much of the Seminary’s life as you wish. Relax; explore Pittsburgh; explore your own faith; talk to some interesting people who are committed to that faith. There is no charge, no hype, no sales pitch and no attitude. There is no set date. Whenever your college has spring break, we’ll be open and ready to welcome you (except March 27- 29, when our seminarians will be on retreat themselves). For more information, contact Fr. Jack Custer at [email protected] or 412-321-8383 x14. sunday, march 1, 2009 page 11 Monastic Asleep in the Lord: Farewell, Father Ellis Life led st. nicholas mission parish in new orleans since 1978 Father Ellis L. DePriest, SM Bishop Michael J. Keyes, Weekend fell asleep in the Lord at the SM at the Marist College in byzantine age of 82 on Friday, Feb. 6, Washington, D.C. Because of 2009, at the Oschner Medical his great love for liturgy, music benedictine Center in New Orleans, La. and singing, he continued to sisters invite Father Ellis was pastor of the study at Catholic University of single catholic St. Nicholas of Myra Mission America there, while teaching in New Orleans since 1978. liturgy and directing the women mar. 20-22 seminarians’ choir at Marist The Byzantine Benedictine College for the next nine years. Sisters of Queen of Heaven He earned Masters degrees in Monastery, Warren, Ohio, Liturgical Music (1956) and invite single Catholic women in Liturgical Studies (1971). to learn about the life and During that time, the NBC work of the sisters through television network broadcast a weekend experience of the Christmas Eve Midnight Benedictine monastic life as it Mass, which was frequently Reverend Ellis L. DePriest, SM is lived in the Eastern Catholic celebrated by Bishop Fulton Church. Sheen from the National Shrine The weekend begins at 7:00 of the Archbishop Basil celebrated the p.m. Friday evening, Mar. 20, in Washington. Father Ellis Office of Burial for a Priest and and concludes at 3:00 p.m. prepared the music and also delivered the homily. He Sunday, Mar. 22. There is no conducted the Marist College was assisted by Very Reverend charge. For more information seminarians’ choir, who sang the Timothy G. Keating, SM, the or to register, please contact responses, winning high critical Marist Provincial; several Sister Agnes at 330-856-1813 praise for their selections and Marist priests; and Reverend or [email protected] by performance. James Deshotels, SJ and Deacon His parochial assignments Sunday, Mar. 15. n Gregory A. Haddad of St. included associate pastor at Nicholas Mission. Archbishop St. Pius X Parish in Bedford, Alfred C. Hughes, Archbishop Ohio, and pastor of St. Joseph of the Archdiocese of New Church in Marietta, Ga. He Orleans, was in attendance. then served as rector and The funeral liturgy was of Marist College in celebrated on Tuesday, Feb. ‘To Live is Washington for seven years. 10 by Father Jack Beckley, In 1974 Father Ellis became a SM. Concelebrants were Christ’ professor of liturgical studies at Marist Fathers Keating, Paul share a day of Notre Dame Seminary in New Morrissey, Mariano Rizzuto, Orleans, and from 1976 to 1981 James McGoldrick, Joseph spirituality at He was born in Jackson, was its rector. He also served McLaughlin, and Edward Fuss. queen of heaven Miss. on Oct. 23, 1926, the Holy Name of Mary parish Also concelebrating were priests monastery son of Ellis L. DePriest, Sr. and and the Marist community of and deacons of the New Orleans Julia Underwood DePriest. college seminarians as superior Archdiocese. Archbishop Basil The Benedictine Sisters of the Father Ellis attended grammar of through 1996. and Bishop Roger Morin, Byzantine Church at Queen school in Natchez, Miss. and Complementing his keen in- the Auxiliary Bishop of New of Heaven Monastery, 8640 when his family moved to terest in the Eastern Church, Orleans, along with 40 priests Squires Lane, N.E., Warren, Alexandria, La. completed Father Ellis was granted bi- and deacons of the Archdiocese Ohio, are offering a day of two years of study at Bolton ritual faculties in 1978, and thus and of the Archeparchy of spirituality on Saturday, Mar. High School there. Feeling began his tireless and faithful Pittsburgh were in attendance. 21, 2009, from 10:15 a.m. to called to the religious life and service to the people of his The homily was offered by Father 1:00 p.m. the priesthood, he began his beloved St. Nicholas of Myra Paul Morrissey; Archbishop The presenter will be Rev- studies with the Marist Society Mission, which continued until Basil, Bishop Morin and Father erend James Hess, O.Carm., of priests and brothers by his death. Keating presented remarks. administrator of St. Stephen completing his high school He was preceded in death by Interment followed in St. Byzantine Catholic Church studies at their then-called St. his parents and is survived by his Bartholomew Cemetery, and in North Huntingdon and St. Mary’s Manor School near brother Clifford, sister-in-law the mercy meal afterward was Mary’s Church in Herminie, Philadelphia, Pa. He entered Fay, niece Jennifer DePriest held at St. Nicholas Parish. n both in Pennsylvania. His the Marist in Staten Shamblin, and nephew Jody topic for the day is “To Live Is Island, N.Y., and professed his DePriest. May God grant to His servant Christ,” based on the writings first vows on Sept. 8, 1947. Father Ellis lay in state at the the priest Ellis of Saint Paul. Father Ellis was ordained Holy Name of Mary Church on Eternal Memory and There will be time for silent a priest on Feb. 1, 1953 by Monday, Feb. 9. That evening, Blessed Repose! reflection, questions, and an opportunity to receive the Mystery (Sacrament) of Reconciliation. During the

break, refreshments will be MUSIC - M

served. The day will conclude LYRE - L A - ANTIPHON - A

with the celebration of Vespers SONG - S at 12:30 p.m. POEM - P

There is no charge for this page 8: page

from Kids Corner Corner Kids from event; registration is requested. ANSWERS Call 330-856-1813 or e-mail [email protected] before Tuesday, Mar. 17 to register. n page 12 sunday, march 1, 2009

Year of St. around the archeparchy Paul

LENTEN KITCHEN - St. Elias Byzantine Catholic Church, 4200 Homestead-Duquesne Road, Munhall, Pa. will hold a “Lenten Kitchen” on Fridays during the Great Fast (except Great/Good Friday) from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 p.m. Available for “Dine In” and “Take Out” are the following food items: Soup, Halušky, Pirohy, Fried Fish Sandwich, Baked or Fried Fish Dinner, Shrimp Dinner, Macaroni & Cheese. Coffee is free. Kitchen phone: 412-461-9271.

WALKING WITH JESUS - “Pilgrim George,” who is currently residing on the grounds of Holy Monastery, will present a talk entitled “Walking with Jesus” on Saturday, Mar. 7 at 9:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church in Butler, Pa. He will give details of his vocation of being a pilgrim and how he has walked all over the United States and other parts of the world. St. Paul’s Church is located on North McKean street in downtown Butler. For more information call 724-285-1783.

ICONOGRAPHY WORKSHOP - Holy Trinity Byzantine Catholic Church in Wall, Pa. is sponsoring an A man of sound faith knows iconography workshop at the beginner’s level for adults over the weekend of Mar. 13-15. Participants will write he can eat anything, while an icon of one of three archangels, Michael, Gabriel or Raphael, on an 8 X 10 gesso covered board. Using a one who is weak in faith pre-prepared prototype, students will learn techniques to create faces, garments, gilding and background. The eats only vegetables. theology of iconography and specifically archangels will also be presented. The class will take place Friday evening, and on Saturday and Sunday from noon until finishing. Participants must be able to attend all three The man who will eat days im order to complete an icon. There will also be an opportunity to attend Liturgy of the Presanctified anything must not ridicule Gifts. The $90 fee will cover all materials, including gesso board, paints, brushes, gold leaf, polyurethane and him who abstains miscellaneous supplies. Lunch will be provided on Saturday; coffee and tea will be available on all days. A from certain foods; the man who abstains deposit of $25 is required; class size will be limited to 20. For further information, call Marylyn Barone at must not sit in judgment 412-678-9453 or e-mail [email protected]. on him who eats. SALAD BINGO PARTY - St. John’s Byzantine Catholic Church in Lyndora, Pa. will hold their annual Salad After all, God himself has Bingo Party on Saturday, Mar. 28 from 12:00-3:00 p.m. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased at the door. made him welcome. Price includes a delicious salad luncheon, (assorted homemade salads donated by the ladies of the parish), bingo Who are you cards and door prizes. There will also be a huge 50/50 raffle and a “Chinese” auction. Proceeds from this event to pass judgment will benefit the parish religious education building. For more information, call 724-283-9799. on another’s servant? His master alone can judge EGG “EGGSTRAVAGANZA” AND EASTER CRAFTS & BAKE SALE - On Sunday, Mar. 29 St. John the Baptist whether he stands or falls. Byzantine Catholic Church, Uniontown, Pa. will present traditional artists as they create and display pysanky, the intricate, colorful and time-honored craft of writing on eggs. A marketplace with pysanky supplies, Pascha And stand he will, items, basket covers and other ethnic handicrafts is planned for the event, along with a number of children’s for the Lord is able activities, pysanky workshop for beginners, display areas, educational videos and more. A variety of Lenten to make him stand. lunch menu items will be available for purchase. Sponsored by GCU Lodge 81 and St. John’s Ethnic Craft Club, Romans 14: 1-4 the “Eggstravaganza” will be held from noon to 5:00 p.m. at St. John the Baptist Social Hall, 201 E. Main Street in Uniontown. For more information, contact Bonnie Balas at 724-438-8412.

BUFFET AND CRAFT SHOW - The Youth Group of St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, Trauger, Pa. is sponsoring an “All-You-Can-Eat” Breakfast Buffet and Craft Show - Sunday, Apr. 5, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Adults - $6; children 5-10 years old - $3; 4 and under are FREE. For more information, phone Laurie Knouse at 724-423-7396.

dates to Official publication of the remember Archeparchy of Pittsburgh march 5 Byzantine Catholic Press Clergy Formation Day Associates St. John the Baptist Cathedral - Munhall, Pa. 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 march 7 Tel: 412.231.4000 Catechist Day of Prayer and Reflection SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary - Pittsburgh, Pa. Fax: 412.231.1697 E-mail: [email protected] march 12 Web site: www.archeparchy.org Clergy Day of Prayer SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary - Pittsburgh, Pa. march 15 next Lenten Day of Prayer issue date: Mount St. Macrina House of Prayer - Uniontown, Pa. march 22 march 20-22 Women’s Monastic Life Weekend Queen of Heaven Monastery - Warren, Ohio copy Deacon Candidates’ Retreat deadline: Antiochian Village - Ligonier, Pa. march 10 ByzanTEEN Lenten Retreat Gilmary Center - Moon Township, Pa.

See more upcoming events at www.archeparchy.org