The Voice of St. George SOC, Fall 2017

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The Voice † of St. George

Fall 2017 St. George Serbian Orthodox Church Western American Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church in North & South America Table of Contents:

3. Father Bratso’s Greeting Letter 4. The Pan Orthodox Glorification of St. Mardarije of Libertyville & All-America 7. “The First Serbian Bishop of America and Canada” by Bishop Sava

8. The Beginning of the Church Year 10. September 10, 2017 - First Day of Sunday School 11. Sunday School Registration Form for 2017/2018

12. Morava News by Dobrila Undheim 13. St. George Calendar of Events 2017 14. “We Are Not Alone” by Deacon Paul 15. The Optina Elders and Their Sayings

23. 2017 Saint George Graduates 24. Letter from Kate Thickstun, Presi- dent of the Parish Council Above: Saint Mardarije of Libertyville and Saint Sava Front page: Icon of Dormition of the Theotokos 25. Diocesan Days 2017 Diocesan Bishop: The Right Rev. Bishop 26. Letter to Spiritual Children in Afflic- Dr. Maxim (Vasiljevic) tion by Abbot Nicon (Vorobyov) Diocesan website http://westsrbdio.org ______29. Upcoming Pilgrimages of St. George Photography: Fr. Bratso, Dobrila Undheim Parish Editors: Father Bratso, Ana Sedy, N. Valenti 30. Prayers Mail your materials to Natalia Valenti at [email protected] August 11, 2017 LETTER

to the Parish by Father Bratso

a saint of our time! Our Church faith- clude this pastoral letter by encourag- ful and, indeed, all of America has ing you all to join actively in the cele-

been blessed with a great saint and bration of the Divine Liturgy each his relics. Let us ask for his interces- Sunday and Feast Day and all other sion before the Lord: “O Holy Hier- parish activities and ministries. arch Mardarije, pray to God for us so With all my love in Christ our Lord, that we here in the St. George commu- Father Bratso Krsic nity may imitate your good works and service to the Lord, and that He may Dear Parishioners, Friends, and Sup- have mercy upon us all and save our Troparion of Sts. Mardarije and porters, souls!” Sebastian, Tone 8: I pray that this issue of our It is of no less importance to O God of our Fathers, quarterly parish bulletin finds you all mention the previous glorification of Always act with kindness towards us; in a good spiritual and physical state. St. Sebastian (Dabovich, 1863-1940) Take not Your mercy from us, The summer is passing by and our on Labor Day weekend in 2015. Both But through the prayers of Saints children will soon go back to school St. Mardarije and St. Sebastian are Mardarije and Sebastian th Guide our lives in peace. (Aug. 28 for the San Diego Unified great saints of our time. School District). I learned that this Kontakion to St. Mardarije of Liber- Here, in our parish, we are year, more than in previous years, a tyville, Tone 8: gearing up for another blessed year of great number of our parish families Tireless preacher of Christ the Lord, chose to vacation in Serbia. This in- Sunday school instruction (we are Leader on the path of St. Sava for your deed is great news! I look forward to looking for teachers and volunteers), people in diaspora, hearing back from them about their the Diocesan Days celebration on La- Labor-loving practitioner and teacher of visits to their families, churches, mon- bor Day weekend at St. Steven’s Ca- repentance, asteries, and other historical sites. thedral in Alhambra, the San Diego Holy Mardarije of Libertyville and Here, in our country, we also Serbian Festival on October 14, and America, many other events and projects. Together with all the Enlighteners of the had one of the most important cele- American lands, brations in the life of our Holy Please, keep in mind that our Entreat the only Lover of Mankind, Church, the Canonization and Glorifi- church is established for the worship To grant all Orthodox Christians peace and cation of St. Mardarije of Libertyville of the Lord, for the preaching of the unity! (1889-1935), who was the first bish- Gospel, for the sacred administration op of the Serbian Orthodox Church in of the holy mysteries (sacraments), Кондак Св. Мардарију the USA (see below his troparion and and for the cultivation of the Christian Либертивилском kontakion). This celebration took life of our posterity and us. Our parish (Глас 8) place at St. Sava Monastery in Liber- founders have offered the sacrifice Неуморни проповедниче Христа tyville, and the New Gracanica Monas- needed to accomplish this task, and Господа,Светосавски человођо народа свога у расејању, трудољубиви tery in Third Lake, Illinois, on July 14- we today are given the opportunity to 16, 2017. His Holiness our Patriarch зиждитељу и учитељу покајања, за continue this holy task, with our chil- кога сејати хришћанску љубав, ширити Irinej, with the concelebration of the dren and grandchildren in mind, and мир, стишавати страсти, local and visiting bishops, clergy, and with a deep concern for the salvation проповедати добро и братимити људе faithful served Hierarchical services of our neighbors in and around our беше закон живота, Свети Мардарије and oversaw the celebration. St. parish in San Diego County. Либертивилски и свеамерички, са Mardarije lived a holy life of unselfish свима Просветитељима американске service to God and entrusted people With a heart full of gratitude земље, моли јединога Човекољупца да to Him for spiritual care, guidance, to our gracious Lord and to all sup- подари мир и слогу роду and salvation in our loving Lord. He is porters and laborers in God’s vine- Православноме! yard here at St. George parish, I con-

The Pan Orthodox Glorification of St. Mardarije of Libertyville & All-America

On Sunday, July 3/16, 2017, western America and asked for his Divine Liturgy at New Gracanica exactly 100 years since Hieromonk fatherly blessing. His Holi- Monastery in Third Lake, Illinois, Mardarije (Uskokovic) was sent to ness then participated in a Press concelebrating with is Grace Bish- the United States in order to assist Conference for news agencies re- op Longin of New Gracanica and with the Serbian Orthodox Mission garding the Glorification of the Midwestern America (the host- of the Russian Orthodox Church in newly-revealed Saint. A documen- Bishop), His Grace Bishop Anthony North America, His Holiness Serbi- tary film, sponsored by Ostrog of Toledo and the Midwest an Patriarch Irinej led the Glorifica- Monastery in Montenegro called (Antiochian Orthodox Church), His tion and Translation of the Relics “The Quiet Corner of Christ,” was Eminence Arhcbishop Nikodim of of St. Mardarije of Libertyville and presented. This inspirational Northern Donetsk and Starobeljski All-America. (Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Mos- With the blessing cow Patriarchate), of His Grace His Eminence Metro- Bishop Longin of politan Amfilohije of New Gracanica Montenegro and the and Midwestern Coastlands, His Emi- America, the fes- nence Archbishop tivities began on Peter of Chicago and Friday, July 14, Mid-America with a Symposi- (Russian Orthodox um dedicated to Church Outside of the Life and Russia - Moscow Pa- Times of St. triarchate), His Mardarije at Ho- Grace Bishop Theo- ly Resurrection dosy (Russian Or- Serbian Ortho- thodox Church Out- dox Cathedral, side of Russia - Mos- with lectures delivered by Dr. Srdja film focused on the life and strug- cow Patriarchate), His Grace Bish- Trifkovic, Dr. Nicholas Groves, and gles of St. Mardarije. The hall was op Mitrofan of Canada, His Grace Dr. Nicholas Ganson. Before the filled to capacity and everyone was Bishop Maxim of Western America, beginning of Vespers, His Holiness most eager to witness the film's and His Grace Bishop Irinej of East- Patriarch Irinej arrived at the Ca- premiere. Hereupon, His Eminence ern America. The Episcopal Choir thedral and was greeted with a Metropolitan Amfilohije of Monte- of the Diocese of New Gracanica Doxology Service in order to give negro and the Coastlands gave a and Midwestern America respond- thanks to God for the safe arrival to beautiful talk on the life of St. ed at the Divine Liturgy, under the Chicagoland of the Spiritual Leader Mardarije and what he meant to guidance of Marya Milicich. The of the Serbian Orthodox People. the world during his lifetime and church was overflowing with faith- Following the Doxology Service, his prophetic witness for us today ful who had come from all parts of Vespers was served, after which and the future. North America in order to venerate His Grace Bishop Lon- the relics of St. Mardarije. At the gin welcomed His Holiness to the On Saturday, July 15, His Holiness end of the Liturgy, Bishop Longin Diocese of New Gracanica and Mid- Patriarch Irinej served Patriarchal welcomed Patriarch Irinej to New

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 4 Gracanica Monastery, a place he America and Canada (Orthodox His Grace Bishop Maxim of West- has visited many times, especially Church in America), His Grace ern America, His Grace Bishop Ir- during the lifetime of Patriarch Bishop Dimitrios of Mokissos inej of Eastern America, His Grace Pavle of Blessed Memory, and of- (Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Bishop Kirilo of Diokleia and His fered a festive meal in the Monas- America), His Grace Bishop Antho- Grace Bishop Sava. Among the tery Hall. ny of Toledo and the Midwest clergy, which comprised all those (Antiochian Orthodox Church), who serve in the Diocese of New That evening, nearly a thousand His Eminence Archbishop Nikodim Gracanica and Midwestern Ameri- faithful awaited the arrival His Ho- of Northern Donetsk and Starobel- ca as well as many guests from the liness to the All-Night Vigil at St. jski (Ukrainian Orthodox Church other Dioceses in North America, Sava Monastery, where the incor- of the Moscow Patriarchate), His were honored guest clergy: V. rupt relics of St. Mardarije were Eminence Metropolitan Amfilohije Rev. Archimandrite Tomas resting in a closed reliquary. The of Montenegro and the Coastlands, (Kazich), Spiritual Father of New faithful came from all over Ameri- His Eminence Sava, Metropolitan Gracanica Monastery; V. Rev. Stav- ca and Canada in order to venerate of America (Georgian Orthodox rophor Marko Todorovich, Hierar- these holy relics. At the doors of Church), His Eminence Nicolae, chical Deputy of the Diocese of the church, His Holiness was greet- Archbishop of the Americas New Gracanica and Midwestern ed by several hierarchs, including (Romanian Orthodox Church), His America, V. Rev. Archimandrite His Beatitude Metropolitan Eminence Archbishop Peter of Chi- Nectarios (Harding) of Holy Trini- Tikhon, Primate of the Orthodox cago and Mid-America (Russian ty Russian Orthodox Monastery in Church in America. The service Orthodox Church Outside of Russia Jordanville, New York; V. Rev. Ab- was sung by the St. Vladimir Rus- - Moscow Patriarchate), His Grace bot Damascene (Christensen) of St. sian Orthodox Male Choir from Bishop Paul of Chicago and the Herman of Alaska Serbian Ortho- New York City under the direction Midwest (Orthodox Church in dox Monastery in Platina, Califor- of Director Adrian Fekula. For America), His Grace Bishop Theo- nia; Rev. Hieromonk Ignatij some sticheras, especially those dosy (Russian Orthodox Church (Shestakov), Editor-in-Chief of dedicated to St. Mardarije, a choir Outside of Russia - Moscow Patri- Pravoslavie.ru and Sretensky Rus- of clergy sang from the pjevnica archate), His Grace Bishop Longin sian Orthodox Monastery in Mos- (kliros), led by His Grace Bishop of New Gracanica and Midwestern cow, Russia; V. Rev. Stavrophor Mitrofan of Canada. With joy, peo- America (the host-Bishop), His Obren Jovanovic, Secretary of the ple eagerly anticipat- Grace Bishop Mitrofan of Canada, Metropolitanate of Montenegro; V. ed the opening of the reliquary at the Magnification (Polyeley) of St. Mardarije. The newly-revealed relics brought peace over the Monas- tery, and the spiritual joy experienced by all in witnessing this miracle of God is indescribable. Fol- lowing Vigil, a meal was offered at New Gracanica Monastery for the faithful.

On Sunday, July 16, at the gates of St. Sava Monastery, built by St. Mardarije himself, His Holiness Patriarch Irinej was greeted by all the serving hierarchs and clergy. Among the hierarchs were: His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon of

Rev. Protosindjel Vasilije The responses at the Divine Litur- After the Divine Liturgy, all the (Gavrilovic) of Ho- gy were sung by a Pan-Orthodox guests were invited to New ly Transfiguration Monastery in choir, comprised of singers from Gracanica Monastery, where a ban- Milton, Ontario, Canada; V. Rev. parishes of the Diocese of New quet was held in honor of the Glo- Stavrophor Nikola Ceko, Hierar- Gracanica and Midwestern Ameri- rification. The original banquet chical Deputy of the Western Dio- ca, as well as other Orthodox was scheduled to take place on the cese; V. Rev. Stavrophor Dr. Zivojin Churches in Chicagoland, under property of St. Sava Monastery on Jakovljevic, Hierarchical Deputy of the direction of Dr. Peter Jermihov. the other side of the Des Plaines the Eastern Diocese; Patriarchal River, which had flooded the previ- Protodeacon Dr. Damjan Bozic, Ed- After the reading of the Gospel, His ous week. As a result thereof, that itor-in-Chief of the Official Organ of Eminence Metropolitan Amfilohije section of the monastery grounds the Serbian Orthodox read the 21st Archpastoral Epistle were not accessible. Church “Pravoslavlje” (“Orthodoxy of St. Mardarije to his flock on ”) and “Teoloski Pascha 1935 (see below), which At the banquet, His Grace Bishop Pogledi” (“Theological Views”); was translated by Bishop Iriniej of Longin addressed those in attend- and, Protodeacon Slobodan Vujasi- Eastern America. Following the ance, thanking all the organizers novic, Diocesan Deacon of the Dio- epistle, Metropolitan Amfilohije for their help in preparing such a cese of Srem. Along with the hier- presented to St. Sava Monastery massive event for our Diocese. He archs and clergy, over one hun- a cross made from stone that was also thanked those parishes and dred children gathered to greet the used to build the house where St. individuals who were significant Patriarch, dressed in traditional Mardarije was born in Kornet, donors. Serbian folk costumes. The proces- Montenegro. sion led from the gates of the Mon- During the festivities, His Holiness astery to the Relics of St. Mardari- Following the commun- Patriarch Irinej and His Beatitude je, which had been placed in the Metropolitan Tikhon were hon- middle of a huge tent, erected for ion of the faithful from ored with Order of St. Mardarije (I the Divine Liturgy, served directly five chalices, a proces- Degree). Musical and oratorical in front of the Monastery Church. sion was made around performances also took place during the celebration, including the Among dignitaries present at the the Monastery with the singing of the national anthems of Divine Liturgy were Prime Minis- Holy Incorrupt Relics of the United States, Canada, Serbia, ter of the Republic of Srpska, Her St. Mardarije. During the pro- and Imperial Russia, as well as per- Excellency Ms. Zeljka Cvijanovic cession, the blessing of the ground- formances of Russian Folk Songs and representative of the Presi- breaking for the new addition to by the St. Vladimir Russian Ortho- dent of the Republic of Serbia, Mr. the Monastery Building which is dox Male Choir, the Pan-Serbian Vladimir Bozovic. being renovated was served on the Choir and the Clergy Choir of the place where monastic quarters will Diocese of New Gracanica and Mid- After the vesting of the Patriarch, be built. After the blessing, the pro- western America. His Grace Bishop Maxim of West- cession continued back to the tent, ern America, on behalf of his Dio- where the Slava Kolac was blessed After the program, His Holiness cese, presented Bishop Longin and a prayer to St. Mardarije was greeted all the faithful again, giving with Holy Relics and an Icon of St. read by His Beatitude Metropolitan thanks to God for our newly- Sebastian of Jackson. These were Tikhon. revealed Saint and blessed all placed on the reliquary of St. those who gathered in his honor.

Mardarije to show their spiritual His Holiness greeted the many hi- unity in building up the Serbian Rev. Nikolaj Kostur erarchs, clergy and faithful pre- Chairman of the Liturgical Commit- Orthodox Church in America and sent, estimated to have been a tee of the Glorification of St. Mardarije Canada. crowd of over 4,000 people, with his Patriarchal message.

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 6 The First Serbian Bishop of America and Canada

Bishop Mardarije (Uskokovic)

Bishop Mardarije ministrator of the American-Canadian Diocese, hold- was born in Podgori- ing this office until elected the first Serbian Bishop of ca on December 22, America and Canada. 1889. His father, The election of Archimandrite Mardarije as Bishop of Pero, was a tribal America and Canada occurred when he was in fairly captain and his poor health, so that he could not travel to Belgrade. mother was named Jela, nee Bozovic. He Archimandrite Mardarije was consecrated Bishop in finished elementary the Orthodox Cathedral in Belgrade on April 25, school in Cetinje 1926 by Patriarch Dimitrije and the Bishop Danilo of where he started Dalmatia and Istria and Bishop Serafim of Zletovo high school, continu- and Strumica. Also present at the Consecration and ing in Belgrade. Leav- Liturgy was Gordon Paddock, Charge d'Affaires at ing high school in his the American Embassy in Belgrade. fifth year, he went to Bishop Mardarije arrived in his Diocese in New York Studenica Monastery. on July l/14, notifying Patriarch Dimitrije of this by In 1906, with the telegram, and sent his first Report to the patriarch in blessing of Bishop early September, 1926. Sava (Barac) of Zica, he took monastic vows and was ordained a deacon. He graduated from the Seminary In his first hierarchic message to the clergy and peo- in Kisenjev where a collection of his sermons was ple Bishop Mardarije acknowledged all, including the published. From here he went to St. Petersburg, deceased, "who had worked for the welfare of the graduating from the Theological Academy in 1916. Serbian Church in America." A wide range of activities awaited the first Serbian As a theological student Hieromonk Mardarije, at the bishop in America and Canada. Bishop Mardarije did behest of the Holy prisoners' camps in Siberia, Tur- not spare himself nor did he fear work, though he kestan, and Bukhara. On this journey, he delivered knew he was gravely ill. Bishop Mardarije convened lectures and talked to prisoners of Slav extraction the first National Church Assembly of the Serbian from Austro-Hungary. Orthodox American-Canadian Diocese with his Fourth Archpastoral Message for September l, 1927 In 1917, the Russian Orthodox Church sent Synkell at St. Sava Monastery in Libertyville, on the basis of Mardarije to America to organize the Serbian Ortho- the Resolution adopted at the National Assembly in dox Church. Here, he served as head of the Serbian Chicago on May 29, 1927. Mission, and at the Cleveland Conference of the Rus- sian Metropolitanate, he was elected the Serbian Bishop Mardarije died on December 12, 1935 and Bishop. But Archimandrite Mardarije did not wish to was buried on December 18, 1935 at St. Sava Monas- accept episcopal consecration without the tery in Libertyville, which, together with the Serbian knowledge and approval of the Serbian Orthodox people, he had built with great sacrifice and super- Church in the Homeland. Instead, he returned to his human effort. country and became head of Rakovica Monastery Bishop Sava of Sumadija, History of the and Rector of its Monastic School. Here he remained Serbian Orthodox Church in America until early 1923 when he returned to America as Ad- and Canada: 1891-1941, Kragujevac

September 14 (September 1-Julian Calendar) we commemorate: The Beginning of the Church Year, or the Beginning of the Indiction

The First Ecumenical Council [Nicaea, 325] THE VENERABLE SIMEON THE STYLITE decreed that the Church year should begin on Sep- St. Simeon was born in Syria of peasant par- tember 1. The month of September was, for the He- ents. At the age of eighteen, he left home and was ton- brews, the beginning of the civil year (Exodus sured a monk. He undertook the most difficult ascetic 23:16), the month of gathering the harvest and of practices, and sometimes undertook a strict fast for the offering of thanks to God. It was on this feast forty days. He eventually took upon himself a form of that the Lord Jesus entered the synagogue in Naza- asceticism that was previously unknown. He stood reth (Luke 4:16-21), opened day and night on a pillar in un- the book of the Prophet Isai- ceasing prayer. At first, his pil- ah, and read the words: The lar was six cubits high. He later Spirit of the Lord God is upon raised it to twelve cubits, then Me; because the Lord hath to twenty-two cubits, then to anointed Me to preach good thirty-six cubits, and finally to tidings unto the meek; He forty cubits high.* On two occa- hath sent Me to bind up the sions, his mother Martha came brokenhearted, to proclaim to see him but he refused to liberty to the captives, and the receive her, saying from atop opening of the prison to them the pillar: "Do not disturb me that are bound; to proclaim now, my mother. If we become the acceptable year of the worthy, then we'll see each Lord, and the day of venge- other in the next world.'' St. ance of our God; to comfort all Simeon endured countless as- that mourn (Isaiah 61:1-2). saults from demons, but he conquered them all by prayer The month of Septem- to God. The saint worked many ber is also important in the great miracles, healing by word history of Christianity, be- and prayer many who were af- cause Emperor Constantine flicted. People from all over the Great was victorious over gathered around his pillar— Maxentius, the enemy of the the rich and the poor, kings and Christian Faith, in September. slaves. Simeon helped every- Following this victory, Con- one: healing some of infirmi- stantine granted freedom of confession to the ties, comforting those in need, instructing others, and Christian Faith throughout the Roman Empire. For reproaching some who held heretical beliefs. Thus, he a long time, the civil year in the Christian world fol- turned Empress Eudocia from the Eutychian heresy lowed the Church year, with its beginning on Sep- and brought her back to Orthodoxy. He lived the as- tember 1. cetic life during the reigns of the Emperors Theodosi- us the Younger, Marcian, and Leo the Great. St. Sime- The civil year was later changed and its be- on, the first great stylite in Christianity and a great ginning transferred to January 1. This occurred first miracle-worker, lived to be 103 years old. He reposed in Western Europe, and later in Russia, under Peter in the Lord on September 1, 459. His relics were the Great. translated to Antioch, to the church dedicated to his Taken from the Prologue of Ohrid name.

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 8 14. септембар (1. септембар по Преп. Симеон Столпник. јулијанском календару) славимо: Родом Сирјанин, од сељачких родитеља. У 18. години одбегао од родитеља и замонашио се. Почетак црквене године Предавао себе најтежим подвизима, понекад (или: начало индикта). постећи по 40 дана. По том се предаде нарочитом подвигу, дотле непознатом, наиме: Први Васељенски Сабор определио је, да да даноноћно стоји на стубу у непрестаној се година црквена почиње 1. септембра. Месец молитви. Његов стуб најпре би висок 6 лаката, септембар је био код Јевреја почетком нове после му подигоше један од 12, па од 22, па од 36, грађанске године (Иса. 23, 16), месец збирања и најзад од 40 лаката висине. Његова мајка плодова и приношења жртви благодарности Марта два пута долажаше да га види, но он је не Богу. У време хте примити, овога него јој са празновања стуба рече: Господ Исус „не ушао је у узнемиравај синагогу у ме сад, мајко Назарету, моја, ако се отворио удостојимо књигу видећемо се пророка у оном Исаије и свету.“ прочитао Претрпе св. речи: Дух је Симеон Господњи на безбројне мени; за то напасти од ме помаза да демона, но јавим он их све јеванђеље победи ништим; молитвом посла ме да Богу. И исцелим сотвори скрушене светитељ срцем; да проповедам заробљеним отпуштење и чудеса велика и многобројна исцељујући речју и слепим прозрење; да огласим годину милости молитвом многе болеснике. Око његовог стуба Господње и дан освете (Иса. 61, 1- 2). Још је овај стицаше се народ са свих страна, богати и убоги, месец септембар знаменит у историји цареви и робови. И он свима помагаше некоме хришћанства, што у њему цар Константин повраћајући здравље телесно, некоме пружајући Велики одржава победу над Максенцијем, утеху и поуку а некога изобличавајући због непријатељем вере Христове, а тој победи јеретичког веровања. Царицу Евдокију тако следоваше слобода хришћанске вероисповести у одврати од јереси Евтихијеве и поврати целој римској царевини. Дуго времена је и Православљу. Подвизаваше се у време цара грађанска година у хришћанском свету рачуната Теодосија Млађег, Маркијана и Лава Великог. као и црквена од 1. септембра; па се је она Овај први столпник у хришћанству и велики пренела на 1. јануар а најпре у западној Европи, а чудотворац Симеон свети поживе 103 године и по том и у Русији у време Петра Великог. упокоји се у Господу 1. сеп. 459. год. Његове Преузето из Пролога мошти пренесене у Антиохију у цркву његовог имена.

September 10th, 2017. First Day of Sunday school

“We are so concerned with our children’s schooling and worldly success; if only we were equally zealous in bringing them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord… This, then, is our task: to educate both ourselves and our † children in godliness; otherwise what answer will we have before Christ’s judgment seat?”

St. John Chrysostom

We are delighted to remind (September 1-3, 2017). to sing responses for the Divine Lit- you that Sunday school starts on This year, we have a great program urgy. th Sunday, September 10 , 2017. and enthusiastic teachers. Commit- Please help us to make all this pos- Please, use the form published here ted so far are: Elizabeth Zdralo, Kai- sible. You all play a very important in the Voice or download it from ja Germain, Anastasija Krsic, Mela- role in educating our young ones in our parish website nie Milicevich, and Nemanja Zdralo the Faith. (StGeorgeInSD.org), fill it out, and Please, know that we need more We encourage you to pray for mail or email it to Fr. Bratso or helping hands. Will you consider your/our children. We are looking bring it with you to the church on helping with this great and needed forward to working together with th Sunday, September 10 , 2017. ministry in our Church? you in bringing up our children in Also, remember that on September In addition to the regular Sunday our Orthodox Faith. rd 3 there will be no Liturgy as we school classes, we will start having Thank you for being our co- are invited to attend Diocesan An- Liturgical singing classes with Kaija workers in Jesus Christ. nual Assembly and Diocesan Days Germain. During these classes, our Fr. Bratso Krsic at St. Steven’s Cathedral Sunday school students will learn Sunday School Teachers

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 10 St. George Sunday School Registration Form For 20017/18 ______

Child’s Name:______Baptized in the Orthodox Church: yes or no. Age:______Birth date:______Grade:______Special needs/medical conditions (including medication):______2nd Child’s Name:______Baptized in the Orthodox Church: yes or no. Age:______Birth date:______Grade:______Special needs/medical conditions (including medication):______3rd Child’s Name:______Baptized in the Orthodox Church: yes or no. Age:______Birth date:______Grade:______Special needs/medical conditions (including medication):______Slava – Patron Saint Feast Day:______Additional Children:______Parents’ Names:______Address:______Phone numbers:______E-mail:______Parents, please mark all activities you can assist with: 1. Teaching______2. Substitute teacher______3. Diocesan Summer Camp______4. Vacation Bible Camp ______5. Fall Sunday School Party______6. Christmas Program______7. St. Sava Program______8. Vrbica (Lazarus Saturday)______9. Field Trips______10. Provide supplies (arts and crafts material, etc)______11. Provide additional snacks if needed______12. Serbian language classes______Other (please specify)______Please, return this form to the church office as soon as possible! THANK YOU! (Additional forms are available in the church office) REMEMBER: By filling out this registration you have taken the first step in your child’s Orthodox Christian education. It is your sacred responsibility to bring your child/ren to church and church Sunday school on regular basis.

Morava Folklore Ensemble News Morava news Dear Friends and Supporters, home! hese young adults always appy Summer! When this orava is in a transition. It T continue to impress me. Mo- H Voice issue is published, Mo- M has been one of the greatest rava has an active dancer board rava will have just returned from honors to have been at the helm of which is heavily relied upon as the its 30th Anniversary tour of Aus- the Morava family as director. administrative arm of Morava. tralia, Melbourne, and Sydney and While it is a lot of work to run an Kristina Zivkovic, President; Vaso hosted Rastko London for Folkfest active dance group, the satisfaction Vasich, Vice President; Sandra held on July 15, 2017. What a and love compensates for the Skendzic, Secretary; Natasha Und- grand and active summer that fos- hours spent each month maintain- heim, Treasurer; Sava Ninkovic, tered lifelong Instructor; and, Cristina friendships and the (Duki) Dukovich, Assis- perpetuation of tant Director. The board our Serbian culture meets monthly and I through song and know that whenever I dance. share an issue or bump in the road or even just aking a short discuss the many agen- T breather from da items, that this intel- practices before ligent and caring group the 2017/2018 will always come up season starts with a solution. Bravo! on September 14 — and boy does it orava Folklore start out fast and M Ensemble furious! In the last (Seniors) practice on two weeks of Sep- Thursday nights from tember, Morava 730-930pm at St. will dance at a George Church Hall. If ing activities. Cristina Dukovich wedding rehearsal dinner and at you are anyone you know is inter- has been assistant director for the St. Petka’s Serb Fest, and will be ested in joining, please send them last couple of seasons and is about fundraising at the Viking Festival my way for a member application. ready to fully step into the role of in Vista as Nordic Ice. Then, Octo- director. The transition will be nat- ber keeps us busy with the San Di- orava Folklore VOCAL En- ural and seamless with the lines ego Serbian Festival at St. George semble is also recruiting for blurred as to who is director for M on October 14 and our long- singers. If dancing is not your thing the 2017/2018 season. She will standing gig at Opolo Vineyards in but you love to sing, give me a fully take over as I step down after Paso Robles October 20 – 22. In shout out for a tryout. Reading mu- our Serbia tour in June 2018. I will November, we hope to have anoth- sic, while appreciated, is not a re- not be going very far. My hope is to er guest instructor from Belgrade quirement. then have more time to focus on come out for a few months as we the vocal ensemble. It will not be Warm regards, begin preparing choreographies easy to let go as we are truly a Mo- Dobrila Undheim for Serbia 2018. Thank you Sava rava family and the bonds are tight. Director Ninkovic for housing yet another [email protected] Ah well, I still have another season guest instructor for months in your to go!

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 12 St. George Calendar of Events 2017—2018

OCTOBER 2017 MAY 2017 Saturday 6 St. George Feast Day Saturday 14 Protection of the Most Holy Lady Theotokos

Sunday 7 Church Slava San Diego Serbian Festival Thursday 25 The Ascension of our Lord Friday/ 20-21 Opolo Wine Harvest Festival Saturday JUNE 2017 Tuesday 17 St. Stefan and Jelena Sunday 4 Pentecost—Trinity Sunday NOVEMBER 2017 Monday 5 Holy Spirit Day Saturday 4 Cevap Challenge Monday 12 Apostles fast begins Sunday 19 Stewardship Sunday Sunday 18 St Petersburg Ensemble Thursday 23 Thanksgiving day Sunday 25 Vidovdan/Honoring Graduates Tuesday 28 Nativity Fast begins JULY 2017 Thursday 30 St Sebastian of San Francisco Wednesday 12 The Apostles Peter and Paul and Jackson

Saturday 15 Folkfest DECEMBER 2017 DIOCESAN SUMMER CAMP: Monday 4 The entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple Sunday 16 Week One St Nicholas the Wonder- 23 Tuesday 19 Sunday Week Two worker of Myra in Lycia Sunday 30 Week Three JANUARY 2018 AUGUST 2017 Saturday 6 Badnje Vece/Christmas Eve Monday 14 Dormition fast begins Sunday 7 Bozic/Nativity of our Lord Saturday 19 Transfiguration of our Lord Saturday 13 Orthodox New Year Monday 28 Dormition of Theotokos Sunday 21 Annual Stewardship Meeting

SEPTEMBER 2017 Sunday 28 St. Sava Celebration Friday/Sunday 1—3 Diocesan Days Weekend

Sunday 10 Church School begins Deadlines for submitting articles for THE VOICE: Thursday 21 Nativity of Theotokos February 10th (1st quarter) May 10th (2nd quarter) August 10th (3rd quarter) November 10th (4th quarter) Sunday 24 KOLO Slava

3025 Denver Street, San Diego, CA 92117 Tel. 619-276-5827 [email protected] www.StGeorgeInSD.org

WE ARE NOT ALONE By Deacon Paul

prayer for healing from many con- Spirit, they proceeded to proclaim cerned people. Then, I realized the truth of Christ, full of faith that I needed instead to think spir- knowing God was with them. If itually on the matter before offer- they didn’t have that faith, that God

ing any type of response. If some- was with them, how could they

one feels that they are alone while have accomplished anything?

they are surrounded by loving indi- This is the great question

viduals, what could that mean? I we all must consider when times

came to the conclusion, correctly or are good, when we have our health not, that this feeling of being alone and when times are not so good, I was visiting someone in must be due to brokenness and when we are sick, grow old, and the hospital recently who was suf- frailty of human nature and possi- lose our freedom. In our self cen- fering greatly from many bodily bly to the absence of God in human tered, gluttonous, consumerist so- afflictions and struggling to escape hearts, Who would be a comfort ciety, we instead convert Christ’s the torment of long-term illness. A during severe suffering. saving words to something more look of desperation was in their Having just experienced the like “I am with ME always.” This eyes, longing to return to health, to glorious celebration of Pentecost, I is the dilemma we find ourselves have a time without pain, nurses, considered what Christ told His in, unfortunately, when it is some- and doctors. While I was attempt- disciples in the Gospel of Matthew, times too late. After spending the ing to offer some comfort, a pro- verse 19-20: “Go therefore and healthy years of our lives in pleas- found statement was uttered by make disciples of all the nations, ing ourselves, seeking material this suffering soul, “I am alone!” At baptizing them in the name of the wealth, building barns (Luke first, I reasoned within myself, why Father, and of the Son, and of the 12:13) and the like, we come to the would they say such a thing as fam- Holy Spirit, teaching them to ob- crashing reality that none of it mat- ily was constantly cycling through, serve all things that I have com- ters when it is time to depart from the hospital staff was as attentive manded you; and lo, I am with you this life. Some might say that their as they could be, and there was always, even to the end of the age. children will get a nice inheritance much support surrounding this Amen.” This is exactly what the and this provides consolation for person. Not to mention significant Apostles did, imbued with the Holy them. However, we must consider

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 14 Matthew 16:26 which says, “For trite and humiliated heart.” This is is the Alpha and the Omega, the what profit is it to a man if he gains an incredible illustration of the beginning and the end. He is the the whole world, and loses how own contrast between virtue and vice, Creator of all that exists, and He soul? Or what will a man give in ex- and the consequence of not build- loves with perfect love all of His change for hi soul?”. The Holy Fa- ing the “armor of God” as St. Paul thers of our Church speak volumes says in his letter to the Ephesians. on how to live a true Christian life Expanding on this concept and especially how to engage in of spiritual warfare, St. Nicolai of spiritual warfare. Essentially, if we Zicha says, “Just as people do not don’t enter into this warfare early enter a war in order to enjoy war, in life, we may not build the neces- but in order to be saved from war, sary spiritual muscle that allows us so we do not enter this world in or- to always keep God in our hearts der to enjoy this world, but in order and minds. St. John of Karpathos to be saved from it. People go to has an interesting and powerful war for the sake of something creation, especially those that suf- way to describe the importance of greater than war. So we also enter fer in faith and hope in life eternal. this necessary work. He says, “The this temporal life for the sake of The Church provides us traitor Judas was a defeatist, inex- something greater: for eternal life. with all that is necessary for our perienced in spiritual warfare; as a And as soldiers think with joy about spiritual life, but especially signifi- result he was reduced to despair by returning home, so also Christians cant is that we have co-strugglers the enemy's onslaught, and he went constantly remember the end of who can help us grow in faith. and hanged himself. Peter, on the their lives and their return to their Through mutual support and espe- other hand, was a firm rock: alt- heavenly fatherland.” cially prayer, there is no reason for hough brought down by a terrible So how would one answer some- a true Christian to feel alone, for fall, yet because of his spiritual ex- one who, in a time of desperation, not only do they have God in their perience in spiritual warfare he was says that they are alone? Simply hearts, but they also have the love not broken by despair, but leaping tell them it is impossible, for God is of their neighbors as a blessed con- up he shed bitter tears from a con- everywhere and fills all things. He solation. o not be unbelieving, but believe as the Roman centurion from Capernaum believed. See St. Matthew. (8:5-13) His humility invited the grace of the Holy Spirit just as a bee is drawn to a lovely flower. He knew that he was unworthy D of the Lord’s visitation. He didn’t make excuses for his sins and shortcomings. He didn’t put blame on others. He knew that he was very unworthy of having the Lord Jesus come to his home and his deep sense of meekness and humility at- tracted the grace of God and all that comes with His powerful grace. Whether we are approaching God in prayer for ourselves or for others, let us follow this example and we will be shocked by the immediate willingness of the Lord to dwell with us and to come to our aid. Glory be to God AMEN. Fr. James Guirguis

July 14th-16th, 2017. Glorification Of St. Mardarije of Libertyville at St. Sava Monastery, Libertyville, IL and New Gracanica Monastery, Third Lake, IL

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † Spring 16 Priest Nikolaj Kostur singing of “Christ is Risen.” The rel- Chairman of the Liturgical Sub- ics were light in weight and easily Committee for the Glorification of St. placed in a temporary metal coffin. Mardarije Hereupon the feet were examined, which at this point were the only On Thursday, May 4, 2017, His visible part of the remains. The Grace Bishop Longin served Divine bones of the feet were goldish- Liturgy at St. Sava Monastery with yellow in color. Then, Fr. Nikolaj Sindjel Serafim (Milojkovic), Priest Kostur proceeded to examine the Nikolaj Kostur and Hierodeacon mid-section of the body. St. Marda- Nektarije (Tesanovic), in prepara- rije's Holy hands were holding the tion for uncovering the relics. Fol- cross which was firmly in place and lowing the Divine Liturgy, Bishop immovable. As Fr. Nikolaj pulled Longin and the other clergy served back the sleeve of the saccos, it was a Moleban with the Akathist writ- revealed that the hands of St. ten to St. Mardarije. Upon comple- Mardarije were completely intact. tion, the crew organized to remove knowing St. Mardarije’s deep love Clearly visible were his skin, finger- the tombstone and flooring in or- and dedication to both Slavic tradi- nails and hair. der to exhume the relics arrived, tions. under the guidance of Mr. Dusan Truly, God is wondrous in His Djordjevic of Sveta Gora Funeral Once the seal of the vault was bro- Saints, showing us all His Divine Home in Chicago. After removal of ken, every effort was taken to lift power and that nature is subject to the stone, it was revealed that the the cover. During this process, the God’s grace. All of those that par- casket of St. Mardarije was in a ce- cover of the vault shifted and fell took in this experience, from the ment vault. This caused the open- on the casket, breaking its cover. At clergy to the workers, were moved ing to be delayed one additional this moment, a sweet smelling fra- with the joy and spiritual peace day in order to organize a team to grance arose from the tomb, quick- that filled the church during the open the vault. ly dissipating. However, it became uncovering of the holy relics. St. evident that the Saint was buried Mardarije lives on, not only in his On Friday morning, May 5, 2017, facing the west instead of east. This legacy, but now through his incor- the workers broke the seal of the in and of itself is miraculous. It rupt relics which will be a renewed vault, while Priest Nikolaj Kostur manifested the Providence of God. rudder for the Serbian Orthodox and Heirodeacon Nektarije Had St. Mardarije been buried in Church in North and South Ameri- (Tesanovic) served a Moleban to St. the proper direction, the vault cov- ca, guiding us to move into the fu- Mardarije at the tomb in the pres- er would have fallen on the side of ture, being directed by the past. ence of Bishop Longin and Hier- the casket where his holy head May we follow St. Mardarije on the omonk Serafim (Milojkovic). rested. It was visible that his feet path of St. Sava, which led him to Throughout the entire process of had decayed and were bones. sanctity. exhumation, “Christ is Risen” and other Paschal hymns were sung, Frs. Serafim and Nikolaj lifted the Our Holy Hierarch, Father both in Serbian and Russian tones, relics out of the tomb during the Mardarije, pray unto God for us!

17 THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † Fall 2017 18 Morava San Diego was warmly welcomed at St. George Church in Melbourne with a special welcome dinner upon our arrival. New and lifelong friendships were made between Morava San Diego and Morava Melbourne.

At the 31st Serbian Folkloric Festival at Bonnyrigg Sports Club outside of Sydney, Morava performed for the Gala dinner on Friday night Aug 11 as well as for the Festival held on Sunday, Aug 13. The performance on Sunday ran from 11am to 5pm, 46 dance performances. At the same time, a grand Serbian festival was held on the 10 acre grounds. Ravna Gora Folklore performances were something to see. The support of the Bishop and several clergy was evident in their attendance and speeches both at the Gala and at the Folkloric Performances. Morava was the first international group to attend their festival in 1993 and then again in 1999 and now the current Morava continues the Australia Adventure. A tremendous journey and now planning is underway for Serbia in June of 2018.

Morava and Ravna Gora Ensembles at the close of the Gala Dinner Program at Bonnyrigg Sports Club for the opening of the 31st Serbian Folkloric Festival on August 11, 2017. A U S T R A L I A

19 Message from the President Kate Thickstun

Dear Fellow Parishioners, As I write this, our Senior every Morava and their entourage of two By the time you read this, or parents and supporters are wow- years. soon after, you will see construc- ing audiences in Australia. Because Talk to tion beginning on our patio cover they are always with us, helping Kira if by our pavilion. Nes a Rajkovic and around the parish, and performing you’re Miodrag Radovanovic are in charge at our events, it is easy for us to interest- of the project and plan to have it forget that they are the most visi- ed in completed by our San Diego Serbi- ble representatives of St. George joining an Festival on October 14th. We Parish outside of San Diego and, her team! won’t be installing doors on it just truly, around the world. We are so yet, but having a permanent roof, proud of them. including lighting, will be a great I hope to see you at Diocesan addition to our social hall. Also, And we have a champion in our Days to be held over Labor Day spear-headed by Deacon Paul, our midst! In June, Parish Council weekend at St. Steven’s Cathedral patio barbecue room will have roll- member and choir member, Kira in Alhambra. The event’s topic will ing shutters and a door so that we Anthofer, captained her women’s be The Church as Family and the can secure it and protect it from basketball team, San Diego Swish, Family as Church. The guest speak- the elements. We have postponed to bring home the gold medal in er, Reverend Timothy Pavlatos, is a our patio fundraiser until we have their age group at the National clinical member of the American a better idea of what we need ($$ Senior Games held in Birmingham, Association for Marriage and Fami- for doors for the pavilion that Alabama. Over 19 teams from ly and a fellow in the American As- match the beautiful folding doors across the country competed. The sociation of Pastoral Counselors. It on the hall!) and a good date to National Senior Games take place promises to be interesting! hold the event.

Speaking of the Serbian Festival, now is a great time to volunteer to help. There is a job for everyone, both before and during, the event. If you would like to help with food, our Kolo Sestara will begin preparing food soon. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to work. You can help en- sure the financial success of the event and publicize your business by becoming a sponsor. Contact the church office for information and to volunteer.

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † Fall 2017 20 Morava Senior Folklore Ensemble:17 Folkfest, July 15th

The Optina Elders and Their Sayings

Lights of the Orthodox Faith, unshaken pillars of monasticism, Consolers of the Russian land, O holy elders of Optina, Who have acquired love for Christ and have laid down your lives for your children…

On June 18th, 2017 Russia cele- stances, and instructed them on close to their instructions and brated the feast of Saints of all the way to salvation. teachings as to living and healing Russia. Till this day the Optina El- water. ders are guiding the faithful to the Light. St. Lev Above all keep from blaming The holy fathers used to say, and judging your close ones. “Better to live with a spiritual We do have something to guide in the marketplace than worry about: our sinful alone in the wilderness.” And sores stink—we have to again, “Spiritual orphanhood is busy ourselves harder than physical orphan- about them. You will not hood.” St. Macarius wrote, have to answer for others, “Attaining salvation consists pre- only for yourself. cisely in acquiring a guide and Whoever feels that what he cutting off one’s own will and rea- does is according to God, it son.” will not be bad for him here, and it will be good for him Sometimes, they say that it is Hieroschemamonk Lev (Nagolkin) there. quite simple for lay people to live (1768—1841) according to the commandments. Keeping the Lord’s command- Yes, a commandment is given to All the Optina Elders were spiritu- ments revives the soul; it us, but in life it may be fulfilled al guides for laypeople. Spiritual brings peace to your body, different ways in different circum- guidance and care took place in and abundant comfort. stances, and it is not always easy person and through correspond- to understand what is occur- ence, and through instructions. St. St. Nectarius ring—whether it is a temptation, Joseph wrote, “I have faith that The main thing is to beware or whether it is what the Lord every person who comes to Opti- of judging your neighbors. wants of you. na Hermitage in extreme need As soon as it enters your will find satisfaction by God’s head to judge someone, The spiritual life does not mean Mercy…by the prayers of our right then and there say to just living in the clouds; it consists great fathers.” the Lord with attention, of the discovery of the laws of “Lord, grant me to see my spiritual life, as far as they are ap- The holy Optina Elders gave spir- own faults and not to judge plied to a given person in his situ- itual guidance and care to all Rus- my brother.” ation and in his circumstances. sia for more than a century, and You can’t demand that a fly do And the Optina Elders revealed continue to instruct their de- the work of a honeybee— these spiritual laws to laypeople, scendants, and continue to pray you have to give to each helped them to understand and for them. Let us hold ourselves person according to his give meaning to life’s circum- measure.

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 22 Emotional peace is obtained The Lord puts each soul in the from perfect devotion to the position, and surrounds it will of God, without which with the atmosphere, which nothing exists. And if your will be the most conducive to husband really is not good, its improvement and suc- ask yourself in all good con- cess. science before God: “Do I, a sinner, really deserve a good Our whole life is a great mystery and kind husband?” And of God. All the circumstances your conscience without fail of our life, however insignifi- will say that you do not de- cant they may seem, have serve a perfectly good hus- huge significance. We will band; and then in humility of only fully understand the heart, in submission to God’s meaning of our present life will, you will love him with in the age to come. How cir- all your heart and will find cumspectly we ought to re- Schema-Abbot Anthony (Putilov) much that is good, which up late to it! But we leaf through until then you didn’t see. our life like a book, page af- (1795-1865) ter page, not realizing what is written there. There is The Pharisees both prayed and nothing accidental in life— fasted more than we do, but everything is wrought by the without humility all their la- will of the Creator. bor was nothing; so apply yourself the most to obtain- We have to remember that the ing the Publican’s humility, Lord loves everyone and which usually is born of obe- cares about everyone; how- dience, and that will be suffi- ever, if even by human cient for you. standards it is dangerous to give a beggar a million, be- Moreover, the Holy Fathers have cause it may ruin him, while remarked that when a per- 100 rubles can more easily son prepares to receive Holy set him on his feet, how Communion or awaits the much better does the All- coming of one of the Feasts, Knowing Lord know what the devil tries with all his Schema-Archimandrite Barsanuphius will benefit whom. might to cause that person (Plikhankov) (1845-1913) irritation and thus upset his The most difficult thing is pray- soul, so that that day would er. Every virtue becomes not be passed in joy in the A sure sign of the deadening of habit out of practice, but we Lord, but in demonic sorrow. the soul is evading church need to force ourselves to The causes of his attacks on services. A person who has pray right up until death it- us are varied, but the most grown cold towards God first self. By prayer our “old man” important is the judging of of all begins to avoid going to is opposed, and the enemy our neighbors—which sin, as church—in the beginning he especially rises up against a do the sins of licentiousness tries to arrive at the service a person who is praying. and other temptations, de- little late, and then he com- I have to listen to complaints files not only the body, but pletely stops visiting God’s about the fact that we are also our very soul. church. now going through difficult

times, that now free rein is given pens. And we know that all to all kinds of heretical and vices sometimes leave a per- godless teachings, that the son, and only one stays with Church is being subjected to him—pride, which is suffi- the attacks of enemies from cient to take the place of all all sides and that it will be- the others. come terrible for Her, that these murky waves of unbe- But we can in no way dare to lief and heresy are overcom- blame someone who offends ing Her. I always answer, us, even though it seemed to “Don’t worry! Don’t be afraid be an unjust offense. Rather for the Church! She will not we must consider him to be perish: the gates of hell will an instrument of God’s Prov- not prevail against Her, right idence, sent to us to show to the Dread Judgment itself. our disposition. Do not fear for Her but for yourself—that’s what you No one can offend us or irritate us Hieroschemamonk Ambrose (Grenkov) have to fear for, and it’s true if the Lord doesn’t let this happen (1812-1891) that our times are very diffi- for our benefit, or as a punish- cult. Why? Because now it is ment, or to try us and correct us especially easy to fall away A cross that you have begged for from Christ, and then— St. Moses is hard to bear—better to perish.” If you somehow pardon some- devote yourself to God’s will one sometime, for this you in simplicity. St. Macarius yourself will be pardoned. In God’s judgment, it is not one’s St. Ambrose character that has signifi- If you want to have love, then do cance, but the direction of the works of love, even if at one’s will. Understand that the beginning you do them character only has signifi- without love. cance in the judgment of men, and according to it they We should live on earth like a are either praised or cen- wheel turns: it touches the sured; but in God’s judgment earth only at one little point, people’s characters, as natu- while all the rest of it cease- ral characteristics, are nei- lessly rushes upward; but ther condoned nor censured. we, how we lie down on the The Lord looks at a good in- earth and cannot get up! tention and the forcing of The best thing of all is to live oneself to do good, and He simply. Don’t rack your values a person’s resisting Hieroschemamonk Macarius (Ivanov) brains over anything. Pray to the passions, although some- (1788-1860) God. The Lord will arrange times one may be conquered everything, only live more by something due to his simply. Don’t torment your- weakness. He alone judges One passion reproaches anoth- self thinking about how and indifference about this, for er: where there is self-love, what to do. Let it be as it He knows the person’s in- greed for money gives way— happens: that’s what it is to nermost heart and con- and the opposite also hap- live more simply. science, his natural power to do good, and the circum-

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 24 stances surrounding him. wind sways more is strength- ened more at the roots, but Whoever has an evil heart should the one that lives in the calm not despair, because with God’s falls immediately. help, a person can correct his heart. One only needs to watch oneself As things come together, that is attentively and not miss an oppor- how we should live because tunity to be helpful to one’s neigh- the circumstances that sur- bors, to confide often in one’s elder, round us are not simply acci- and to give alms according to one’s dental as many of our con- means. Of course, one cannot do temporary, new-fangled this all at once, but the Lord will know-it-alls think. Everything wait patiently. He only cuts short a happens to us by God’s Provi- person’s life when He sees that he dence, which ever looks after is ready to cross over to eternal life, the salvation of our souls. or else when He sees no hope of the person’s correction. We ourselves aggravate our sorrows when we begin to com- plain. Hieroschemamonk Anatoly (Zertsalov) (1824-1894) Have what is needful and necessary, but don’t collect anything unnecessary. But if you Let us submit to God and humble don’t have anything and are ourselves, and the Lord will upset about it, then what is cover us, and we will be holy. the point? — It’s better to fol- But until we humble our- low the middle course. selves and accept God’s will, Contrariness acts in a person until we propitiate God— more strongly than anything. though we beat our heads Sometimes a person will even against the floor doing pros- do something difficult—by trations—the passions will his own desire. But just tell not diminish. him to do something easy, Patiently endure everything and and he immediately gets up- Hieroschemamonk Joseph (Litovkin) you will not only be peaceful set. But we have to do as we yourself, but you will also (1837-1911) are told. give peace to others! But as Just as we must not seek out hon- soon as you begin to keep If you notice a fault in a close one or, so neither must we refuse scores, you will lose your that you would like to cor- it, as we live in society for the peace and along with it your rect, if it destroys your peace good of others. Honor im- salvation. of mind and annoys you, then posed [by others] is also from I’ll tell you a secret, I’ll tell you you also are sinning and, con- God. sequently, you will not cor- the very best way of finding rect a fault by a fault—it is The very sin that each person humility. This is what it is: to corrected by meekness. thinks is so bad in his neigh- patiently endure every pain bor is the one that accuses that pierces your proud And it is good for us when they himself, the accuser. heart. jostle us. The tree that the

Our Holy Fathers, Elders of They say that church is boring. Optina, pray to God for us! It’s boring because they Without winter there would be don’t understand the ser- no spring, and without vices! You have to study the spring there would be no services! Church is boring summer. So it is also in the because they don’t care spiritual life: a little consola- about it—it doesn’t seem to tion, and then a little grief— belong to them, but to some- and thus little by little we one else. Even if they at work out our salvation. would least bring some flow- ers or greens for decora- Let us accept everything from tions, if they took part in all the hand of God. If He com- the fuss of decorating the forts us, let us thank Him. church, then it wouldn’t be And if He doesn’t comfort boring. us—let us thank Him. Hieromonk Nikon (Belyaev) Live simply, by your conscience, (1888-1931) Learn to be meek and of few and always remember that words, and you will be loved the Lord sees—and don’t ptina, a spiritual summit of by everyone. But open emo- pay attention to all the rest! O Russia, is known for the high- tion is like open gates: the er spiritual podvig of inward activi- dog runs through them, the St. Nikon ty, crowned with an abundance of cat runs through them…and the gifts of grace through the acqui- they leave their droppings. There is not, never was, and sition of the Holy Spirit. never will be a place on Located about 80 miles from Mos- We are obliged to love everyone, earth without sorrow. There cow, Optina monastery has existed but we don’t dare demand can only be a place without since the 16th c. It fell into disrepair that everyone love us. sorrow in the heart, when in the 18th c. under the anti- the Lord is in it. monastic policies of Peter I and Catherine II. During the late 18th c. It is a mistake to seek after hu- monasticism in Russia enjoyed a man truth—seek only God’s revival, significantly influenced by truth. the works and spirituality of the Elder Schema-monk Paisius Vel- Always remember the law of the ichkovsky, which was spread by his spiritual life: if you get upset monastic disciples. The lineage of about some fault of another divinely enlightened spiritual fa- person and you condemn thers is visual manifestation of this him, afterwards the same spirituality. fate will befall you, and you The Bolshevik revolution of will suffer from the same. 1917 halted the works of the monks. The monastic Fathers were No matter how insignificant it dispersed, to die in exile, in prison may seem to you, do every- and labor camps, or to be execut- thing well, as in the presence ed. Hieromartyr Isaac was shot by of God. Remember that the the Bolsheviks on December 26, Hieroschemamonk Anatoly (Potapov) Lord sees everything. 1937. Optina Monastery was re- (1855-1922) established in 1987. In 1996 four- Prepared by Olga Rozhneva teen Optina Elders were glorified by Translated by Dimitra Dwelley Moscow Patriarchate.

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 26

2017 Saint George Graduates

year, Alexandra's Alexandra Alemany work had been ex- hibited in seven In June 2017, Alexandra Alemany received a noted galleries and Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Rhode Island School of had received sever- Design, where she majored in Illustration with an al prestigious emphasis on stop motion animation. During her awards, includ- years of study at RISD, Alexandra's talent, dedication, ing the highest il- and exacting attention to detail distinguished her ear- lustration award ly on, and resulted in her selection as an intern for a from the Society of number of highly coveted internship positions. Illustrators for her As a sophomore, Alexandra was hired as the stop motion film craft intern at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, "The Mountie". where her work was featured in Martha Stewart Liv- Alexandra recently ing magazine. As a junior, her rapidly growing experi- joined the stop mo- ence and expertise resulted in her selection as an intern building miniature sets and props for one of the tion company BixPix and plans on a career building world's top stop motion animation companies, sets and props in this industry. She humbly attributes Stoopid Buddy Stoodios, best known for their show her success to her incredibly supportive parents, our Robot Chicken. By the time she reached her senior church, and most importantly, to God.

staying active, and visiting their family and friends in Nikola Dragojlovic California. We are very proud of Nikola’s accomplish- is the son of Sinisa and Smiljana Dragojlovic. He was ments and wish to congratulate him and the rest of a long-time member of the “Morava” folklore group, the 2017 graduates from St. George Serbian Ortho- but in 2008, moved to New York to pursue his dream dox Church! of practicing medicine. He completed medical school at New York College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2012, then moved to Houston, Texas for residency training in physical medicine and rehabilitation at the University of Texas Health Science Center, where he served as chief resident. He stayed an additional year for fellowship training in Brain Injury Rehabili- tation, and recently completed board certification in physical medicine and rehabilitation.

He will begin work in August as an attending physician at TIRR Memorial Hermann in Houston, a specialty center for neurologic rehabilitation. His wife, Taraneh, works as a senior project manager for a boutique architecture firm. They enjoy travelling,

GOD BLESS OUR GRADUATES!

Emilia Copic Emilia Copic is duced Emilia to the field of data science and oppor- the daughter of tunities at SDSC. Miro and Laura During her junior year, Emilia was accepted Copic and young- into the UCSD Mentor Assistance Program where er sister to Milan. she created a program that extracts a person's heart She was baptized rate from them pressing their fingertip on phone by Fr. Draskovic camera. She presented her findings at the MAP Re- and has grown up search Symposium. Last summer, she was accepted at St. George. Emi- into the Research Experience for High School Stu- lia is graduating dents program at UCSD. There, she worked with a with highest hon- team that developed algorithms to make quick com- ors from Canyon Crest Academy, one of the top high parisons of 3D protein structures, which is im- schools in the United States. She is also a National portant in drug development. AP Scholar. Emilia is committed to encouraging girls to pursue computer science, which is why she assists Emilia was accepted to a number of prestigious uni- students in learning to program both inside and out- versities, including Caltech, Berkeley and Brown and side of school.Emilia has volunteered at the Helen chose to attend Harvey Mudd College to study Com- Woodward Animal Shelter for the last 3 years. puter Science. Ever since elementary school, Emilia Emilia is grateful and honored to receive has loved problem solving and math. She’s had some both the Dr. Alexander L. Srbich and St. George great mentors but her first mentor was Dr. Natasha scholarships. She is humbled by these awards and Balac (from St. George), who was Director of the San promises to be a good steward of these scholarships Diego Supercomputer Center (SDSC). She intro- in her studies.

Pictured below is Danielle receiving a coin from Rear Lt. Danielle Rakich Admiral Pearigan of Navy Medicine West. She was chosen among her peers to receive the coin and get a formerly of Morava and originally from Chicago, has chance to meet and speak with the Admiral. completed her two years of Naval service in Japan and will now be heading to Bahrain for 1 year. While in Japan she visited many areas, tried lots of different food, and learned a little Japanese (ohayo gozai- masu!). Her heart was never far from her culture though. She was able to attend Holy Resurrection Cathedral (Russian) in Tokyo numerous times de- spite the almost 2 hour train ride. She is sad to be leaving Japan but excited to be able to visit Chicago for a bit before heading to her next duty station.

After Bahrain, she is not sure where she will wind up, maybe Chicago, maybe Seattle, or maybe back in the San Diego area. She sorely misses all of her friends in Morava and wishes she could be there to sing and dance the night away with them.

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 28 September 1-3, 2017 Saint Steven’s Serbian Orthodox Cathedral. Diocesan Days 2017 Alhambra, California

THE CHURCH AS FAMILY & THE FAMILY AS CHURCH “You are no longer strangers and sojourners, but are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God…” - Ephesians 2:19

With Special Guests REVEREND TIMOTHY PAVLATOS Clinical member of the American Association for Marriage and Family, Fellow in the American Association of pastoral Counselors and Director of the Family Wellness Ministry for the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco With Special Guest Hierarch RIGHT REVEREND SAVA, Bishop of the Georgian Orthodox Diocese of North America Schedule of Events FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 1:00 PM Clergy responsibility, liability, and discernment. A luncheon Seminar for Clergy 4:00 PM Meeting of the Diocesan Council 6:00 PM Vespers 7:00 PM Dinner, Introduction of Honored Guests, Question and Answer Session SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 8:30 AM Matins 9:30 AM Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, Invocation, and Memorial Prayers 11:00 AM Continental Breakfast 11:30 AM Annual Diocesan Assembly 1:30 PM Living the Christian Life in the Midst of the World. Lunch Presentation, Fr. Timothy Pavlatos AFTERNOON EDUCATION WORKSHOPS 3:30 PM Testimony to the Orthodox ethos. A Women’s Conference and KSS Annual Assembly What every Orthodox Treasurer should know. A meeting with Treasuers Vacation School for Children and Youth Activities, Grades PK-12 4:45 PM Enhancing lessons and teaching styles. A workshop for Sunday School Teachers As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another. Stewardship Q&A Liturgical Seminar for Deacons. Bishop Maxim 6:00 PM Vespers 7:00 PM Dinner, Concert and Fellowship. Live music or listening and dancing pleasure SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 9:00 AM Matins 10:00 AM Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, with responses sung by the St. Steven’s Youth Singers & Breze Chorus 12:00 NOON Banquet & Program. Folkdance and Choral Performance and Keynote by Fr. Timothy Pavlatos

Letter to Spiritual Children in Affliction

People in pain…be it moral or physical, we are caught unprepared. How to understand why it is happening to us? Where to find consolation? Letters of Fr. Nikon to his spiritual children are invaluable in this quest.

Ignaty Brianchaninov says that diseases are the Lord’s reminders to us that our death is not far, and that we should cleanse everything that has been, with true com- punction, repentance, and receipt of the Holy Mysteries. God’s Wisdom is so great that the Lord even turns evil to man’s benefit. Abbot Nikon (Vorobyov)

Why are you so desperate in your letters? Are lesser degree than the saints - persecuted, insulted, you the only one there experiencing difficulties? The and had to bear inner and outer diseases and sor- external difficulties are not what matters – I think rows. you also understand this. The disposition of your Besides, you must know that the early fathers soul is what matters. Wherev- predicted that in the last days, those er you go, you will not go leading a monastic life, will not get away from yourself and from salvation through their deeds but the enemy. Remember that through enduring sorrows. It is im- the spiritual law declares: … portant to know that the multiple we must enter into the King- sorrows and diseases that befall dom of God through many man are the clearest indication of tribulations; “if any man will this man being chosen by God and come after Me, let him deny by God’s love for him. And the other himself, and take up his cross, way round: if a man considering and follow Me”; “the Kingdom himself as a true believer has no sor- of God is taken by force;“ pos- rows or diseases to bear, this, ac- sess your souls in your pa- cording to the Holy Fathers, is evi- tience; who endues to the dence that this man is not in Lord’s end, will be saved; you will favor. suffer in the world; the world will hate you, and if you in- Now try to apply all the tend to serve God, prepare above-said to yourself. The Lord your soul for temptations… wishing your salvation, loving you, etc. sends to you what all people without exception need – afflictions. But you The Holy Fathers for- do not understand this and see your mulated this law very concisely and forcefully: “Give tribulations as something you would rather do with- blood and receive Spirit.” This is the law for all seek- out and even find them detrimental. Detrimental as ing salvation to abide by. The life stories of all the they might be for your sinful and fallen human na- saints confirm the validity of this law. The example - ture, they are not detrimental for your soul. It is also one for all is set up by our Lord Jesus Christ. This ex- true, that they are detrimental for the “old man,” but ample has been followed by apostles, martyrs, con- they are salutary for the “new man.” The enemy fessors, and by the righteous. Theirs are telling and knows this and he perturbs you with wrong ideas, widely-known examples. All whoever intended sin- stirring up impatience in your soul and making you cerely to lead a devout life in Christ were – though in judge other people, disapprove the ways of their life;

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 30 confirming this knowledge by experience, and stand other people, demons or by force of circum- up against the devil. According to God’s word, sor- stances, for indeed nothing can come about rows and sufferings during the earthly life are not without God’s will. People and circumstances are evil, but the good gift of God; “For unto you it is given only God’s tools, often not aware of what they were in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him , but doing. also to suffer for his sake” (Phil. 1:29) Different people bear the hardships that are important for the salvation differently, each depend- ing on his/her own individual disposition. If a person believes God’s word about the necessity and inevita- bility of sufferings for his salvation, if he comes to the realization of his innumerable sins – by word, by deed, and in thought – and finds that the sufferings befallen him were, in fact, a much softer punishment than what he really deserved; if he humbles himself before God and before other people, the sufferings will feel easier, and with time, bring forth inside man what is dearer than the whole world with all its worldly goods, which Apostle Paul described like this: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, no have entered into the heart of man the things, which God has prepared for those who love Him.” (I Cor. 2:9) A person who grumbles over his afflictions and diseases looking for who or what to blame for them, be it other people, demons, or circumstances, will do the utmost to escape them, and the enemy will be ready to help him in this. He will show him sham offenders (authorities, rules, neighbors, and many other sources of his misfortunes) and instigate animosity and hatred of this man towards his imagery offenders along with the wish of taking revenge against and of abusing them. As a result, this man’s soul will be plunged into the darkness, despair, and Lord Jesus Christ announced to all people that hopelessness. The man will be anxious to be else- His upcoming suffering on the cross will not be peo- where and hide himself, even if only underground ple’s doing. His sufferings will not be the work of with the possibility for the escape, so as not to see or Pharisees, Scribes, nor of Pontius Pilate or Judas, for hear his imagery enemies, while listening to and they are only tools. “The cup which my Father hath pleasing his only real and mortal enemy – the devil, given me, shall I not drink it?” says the Lord. Not peo- who is inculcating in him these evil thoughts and ple, but His Heavenly Father gave the cup of suffer- feelings, intending to ruin him and even to lead to ings to Jesus Christ for the redemption of the fallen suicide, the final, irreparable perish. humanity. The cup of our sorrows is not given to us by people either, but by the Lord. The Lord God has If you want to find peace of the soul, suffered for our sake, why then, tell me, shall we not consolation and salvation, humble and suffer for our innumerable sins, which we even do bring yourself under God’s strong hand, not see? We must ask God to let us see our transgres- and He will rise you. In other words, accept sions. everything that happens to you as things If we are granted to see our sins, we will feel coming from God’s hands rather than from how heavy they are and see how unacceptable to God man with sins is, as well as how important it is

for us to get God’s redemption and purification of our in compliance with His teachings offered to us in the leprous soul. Then we will understand why we Gospel. If you, too, take an effort to become a school- should prostrate before the Lord weeping, like a sin- girl of the Savior and live according to the command- ner woman, and beg Him, like the publican: “God, be ments of the Gospel; if you begin to sincerely deplore merciful to me, a sinner. God, do with me whatever you your intentional and unintentional transgressions wish, send unto me any sorrows there are, but only for- and repent; if you try to preserve peace with your give me my sins and cleanse my leprous soul and do neighbors and humble yourself before them; and if not deny me your Heavenly Kingdom and do not hand you begin to ask forgiveness for all things done me over to my enemies – demons.” wrongly, you will soon feel God’s gracious mercy sent Humble yourself before God and like a unto you; you will forget all your sorrows or will find prudent thief say: “I receive the due reward them very easy to overcome, and you will begin of my deeds; God, remember me in Thy thanking God for the lot He has predestined for you. Kingdom.” Don’t be alike the other thief, “Learn from Me, for I am meek and lowly in who was rebuking all and everything, heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Mt. 11:29) blaming other people for his sufferings, You will also find rest and joy, but not in changing places. You will find rest and joy only in the com- which made him feel worse until his ulti- mandments of God, especially if you are peaceful, mate perish. Unlike him, the prudent thief re- humble, unjudging, repentant and praying. Apparent- signed himself, turned to God and found consolation ly, you pray little and reluctantly. Learn to look for solace from God in prayer, and you will not “depart void.” Abbot Nikon (Vorobyov)

Fr. Bratso's Prayer for Graduating Students of St. George parish:

"Lord Almighty, we thank You for these graduating students. We pray that You will give them direction, pur- pose, and perseverance as they enter the next phase of their lives. Give them clearness of mind to move forward into the plans and purposes that You have for them. May these young people gain wisdom from You and have discernment for proper behavior.

Raise up Orthodox Christian mentors for these graduates so they have someone who holds them accountable for their actions. We pray that they will rise above un- godly behaviors and have the boldness to stand up for what is right wherever they work, study, or socialize.

Give them wisdom to spend their time and money wise- and alleviation of his pain, and rejoiced foretasting ly. Grant them success for their efforts at every turn and guide their feet to follow Your ways. upcoming freedom from his sufferings and a blissful life in paradise - “today, you will be with Me in Para- May they be eager to do good and not evil all the days of dise.” their lives. Use them in mighty ways. For to You belong As the Lord has done everything for our salva- all glory, honor and worship, Father, Son, and Holy Spir- tion, so also, we should work for our own salvation, it, the Trinity one in essence and undivided, now and trying to follow the example of our Lord Jesus Christ ever and unto the ages of ages, Amen! in our actions, thoughts, and feelings – that is, behave

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 32 Upcoming Pilgrimages of St George Parish

Russia Serbia

September 11-22, 2017: Pilgrimage to Russia (not too late to register) February or March 2018: Pilgrimage to the Holy Land 2019: Pilgrimage to Serbia and Mount Athos (800 years of autocephaly of the Serbi- an Orthodox Church) 2020: Pilgrimage to Alaska 2021: St. Herman of Alaska monastery in Platina, CA

All pilgrimages must have minimum of 10 participants

Holy Land Mount Athos

If you are not successful in prayer, you will not be successful in anything, for prayer is the foundation of everything. St. Theophan The Recluse

A Prayer for the Beginning of the Day lasting life: for Thou art our sanctifica- A Prayer for the Sick tion, and unto Thee we ascribe glory: to O Lord, grant me to greet the coming the Father, and to the Son, and to the O Holy Father, heavenly Physician of day in peace. Help me in all things to Holy Spirit, now and ever, and unto ag- our souls and bodies, who hast sent Thine rely upon Your Holy will. In every hour es of ages. Amen. only-begotten Son and our Lord Jesus of the day reveal Your will to me. Bless Christ to heal our diseases and deliver my dealings with all who surround us from death. Do Thou visit and heal me. Teach me to treat all that comes to A Prayer of Parents for Children, Rela- Thy servant (name), granting (him/her) me throughout the day with peace of tives and Friends release from pain and restoration to soul and with firm conviction that Your health and life, that (he/she) may give will governs all. In all my deeds and O God, our heavenly Father, who lovest thanks unto Thee and bless Thy Holy words, guide my thoughts and feel- mankind, and art most merciful and com- Name, of the Father, and of the Son, ings. In unforeseen events, let me not passionate, have mercy upon Thy serv- and of the Holy Spirit, now and ever forget that all are sent by You. Teach ants (names) for whom I humbly pray and unto ages of ages. Amen. me to act firmly and wisely, without em- Thee, and whom I commend to Thy gra- bittering and embarrassing others. Give cious care and protection. Be Thou, O A Prayer for the Departed me strength to bear the fatigue of the God, their guide and guardian in all coming day with all that is shall their endeavors. Lead them in the path Into Thy hands, O Lord, I commend the bring. Direct my will, teach me to pray, of Thy truth, and draw them nearer to souls Thy servants (names), and beseech and You, Yourself, pray in me. Amen. Thee, that they may lead a godly and Thee to grant them rest in the place of righteous life in Thy love and fear, doing Thy rest, where all Thy blessed Saints A Prayer of a Single Person Thy will in all things. Give them grace repose, and where the light of Thy coun- that they may be temperate, industrious, tenance shineth forever. And I beseech O Blessed Lord, who hast set up for us diligent, devout, and charitable. Defend Thee also to grant that our present lives an example of ideal purity, strengthen them against the assaults of the enemy, may be godly, sober, and blameless; me, I beseech Thee, when temptation and grant them wisdom and strength to that we too may be made worthy to besets me, and when strong passions resist all temptation and corruption of enter into Thy heavenly Kingdom with seek to overwhelm me, that I may re- this life. Direct them in the way of sal- those whom we love but see no longer: main constant in virtue and innocent in vation, through the mercy of Thy Son, for Thou art the Resurrection, and the thought, word, and deed, doing such our Savior Jesus Christ, and the interces- Life, and the Repose of Thy departed things that are well-pleasing unto sions of his Holy Mother and Thy blessed servants, O Christ our God, and unto Thee. Grant me growth in wisdom and Saints. Amen. Thee we ascribe glory: to the Father, understanding, that I may serve Thee in and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, holiness all the days of my life; through now and ever and unto ages of age the intercessions of Thy all-pure Mother A Prayer of Children for Their Parents Amen. and of all Thy saints, especially my patron Saint (Name). Amen. Our Father, who art in Heaven, bless my A Prayer Before Lessons Father and Mother and those who are in A Prayer of Married Persons authority over me, for their love and O Most merciful God, send us the grace tender care for me and the benefits I of Thy Holy Spirit, Who enlightens and O merciful God, we beseech Thee ever receive at their hands. Help me, I pray strengthens our spiritual powers. Help us to remind us that the married state is Thee, to be respectful and obedient to to be attentive to the teaching present- holy, and that we must keep it so. Grant them in all things according to Thy ed, that we may grow up for the glory us Thy Grace, that we may continue in will. Give me Thy grace to perform all of Thee, our Creator, for the joy of our faithfulness and love. Increase in us the my duties carefully and faithfully, to parents, and for the benefit of our spirit of mutual understanding and trust, avoid undesirable company and influ- Church and of our country. Amen. that no quarrel or strife may come be- ence, and to resist all temptations that tween us. Grant us Thy blessings, that may come my way. Abide in me al- The Jesus Prayer we may stand before the people and in ways, that I may live a sober, righteous Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mer- Thy sight as an ideal family. And by and godly life, ever praising Thee, and cy on me, a sinner. Thy mercy, account us worthy of ever- glorifying Thy Holy Name. Amen.

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2017 34

VIDOVDAN & HONORING OUR GRADUATES Church Office Staff & Volunteers ______PARISH PRIEST V. Rev. Protopresbyter Bratislav Krsic Email: [email protected] PARISH DEACON Rev. Deacon Paul Germain CHURCH BOARD PRESIDENT Kathryn Thickstun VICE-PRESIDENTS Dusan Selezan & Velimir Jovanovic TREASURER: Milos Belcevic SECRETARY: Nicholas Schrandt MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Vojkan Popovic, Nebojsa Rajkovic, Vladimir Kezic, Radovan Borovic, Dorde Petrovic, Simona Trifunovic, Andrew Marin, Kira Anthrofer, Protinica Lisa Krsic STEWARDSHIP CHAIRMAN Zeljko Milasinovic AUDITING BOARD Miro Copic,Vesna Jovanovic, Dusanka Klacar TUTORS/VESTRYMEN Milos Lukic, George Skaljac, Nebojsa Rajkovic, Miro Copic, Reader Radovan Borovic S.S.S. St. GEORGE CHOIR Velimir Jovanovic, President Kathryn Thickstun, Director CIRCLE OF SERBIAN SISTERS Marija Milasinovic, Vera Rakic MORAVA FOLKLORE ENSEMBLE Dobrila Undheim, Jovana Djuric PARISH ADMIN. ASSISTANT Natalia Valenti

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