CONTENTS

3 EDITORIAL By Very Rev. John Abdalah

4 INTERVIEW WITH METROPOLITAN GEORGE The Most Reverend Metropolitan PHILIP, D.H.L., D.D. 7 ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE 10 A MESSAGE TO MY FRIENDS AND PEERS The Right Reverend By Dena Haddad Antoun, Auxiliary 11 TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE The Right Reverend By Very Rev. Antony Bishop Joseph, Auxiliary 13 NUMB AND NUMB … ER The Right Reverend By Dan Nicholas Bishop Basil, Auxiliary 16 ADVANCED DIRECTIVES FOR The Right Reverend ORTHODOX CHRISTIANS Bishop Demetri, Auxiliary By Tom Foreman Founded in Arabic as 18 THE AFTERLIFE AND THIS LIFE Al Kalimat in 1905 By Very Rev. Joseph Allen by Saint Raphael Hawaweeny Founded in English as 19 ARCHDIOCESE BOOKSTORE The Word in 1957 27 “ REAL BREAK” IN GUATEMALA by Metropolitan Antony Bashir By Noah P. Papas Editor in Chief The Very Rev. John P. Abdalah, M.Div. 29 A WORD FOR THE MONTH By Very Rev. Stephen Rogers Assistant Editor Joanne M. Abdalah, MSW 31 COMMUNITIES IN ACTION Editorial Board 37 THE PEOPLE SPEAK … The Very Rev. Joseph J. Allen, Th.D. 38 THE ORTHODOX WORLD Anthony Bashir, Ph.D. The Very Rev. Antony Gabriel, Th.M. 40 EASTERN REGION The Very Rev. Peter Gillquist PARISH LIFE CONFERENCE Linda Hopkins Anne Glynn Mackoul, J.D. 41 ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION SCHEDULES Ronald Nicola 44 MISSIONS AND EVANGELISM Najib E. Saliba, Ph.D. The Very Rev. Paul Schneirla, M.Div. MEMBER Design Director The Associated Press Donna Griffin Albert Conciliar Press Editorial Office: Ecumenical News International The Word Orthodox Press Service 1777 Quigg Dr. Pittsburgh, PA 15241-2071 e-mail: [email protected] COVER FAX: 1-412-831-5554 Subscription Office: THE 45TH ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN 358 Mountain Road ARCHDIOCESAN CONVENTION will be hosted by St. Englewood, NJ 07631 Nicholas Cathedral in Los Angeles at the Century Plaza Hotel on July 23-29, 2001. At this convention we will celebrate our Metropolitan Philip’s 35th anniversary of episcopacy and Bishop Antoun’s 50th anniversary of priesthood.

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2 The Word EDITORIAL

editorial

O YOU REALLY BELIEVE THAT WHEN WE UPRISING.OR PERHAPS:NO PARISHES OFFER Dgather in Los Angeles for the Archdiocese CHANGE TO THE ANCIENT OF JESUS Convention in July at the Century Plaza Hotel, , NO CALL TO RETHINK CHURCH we can expect the Holy Spirit to reveal God’s will to His STRUCTURE, NO STRIKE AMONG THE CLERGY, Church? Do you really imagine that God will speak CHANTERS, OR . through His , and that He will plant dreams and hopes in our young men and women? Do you really Such hypothetical, and perhaps boring, headlines think that there will be teaching, prophesying and dis- result from the leadership of Metropolitan Philip, who cernment? Do you imagine that the Kingdom of God for the past thirty-five years has offered us vision, love, will descend as the people of God ascend, to be fed by wisdom, discernment, patience and encouragement. the hand of God from on high? For most of those years, we have also benefitted from If you don’t think that God really acts in such ways Sayidna Philip’s trusted friend and confidant, Bishop today when we gather as Church, what is it that you do Antoun. Sayidna Antoun has served the Church of believe? Do you imagine that God grew tired after cre- Jesus Christ with forbearance, unwavering loyalty and ation and went away for vacation? Or perhaps He is out unquestionable stewardship. In his forty-five years of shopping, or busy creating new galaxies, having given priesthood, Bishop Antoun has served in the most diffi- up on this one? Do you imagine that God has come to cult and challenging circumstances, and has done so be ineffective, and that the “rebellion” has with grace and love. We have been blessed taken over? by the service of these two men and will Well, as a matter of fact, I do believe God EDITORIAL do well to thank God for them as we cele- will be acting and guiding us at the 45th BY brate their anniversaries at our Archdiocese Convention because I believe Very Rev. John P. Convention. God told the truth when He said, “When two Abdalah I believe that, when we gather in Los or three are gathered in My name, there am Angeles, God will send His Holy Spirit to I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20), move among the shifting papers and anx- and, “Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask anything of the ious people surrounding the microphones. Even so, I Father, He will give it to you in my name” (John 16:23). expect nothing even remotely discernible to the secular From my early childhood recollections, I knew that press as “newsworthy.” I simply expect that God will when the general assembly of our Archdiocese sang “be” with His people. With this miraculous visit, some of together the troparion of , and our us will become more committed, more obedient, Metropolitan petitioned the Holy Spirit to guide the strengthened in our faith. Others will confirm their voca- Church, that God was acting here. This was no ordi- tion, called by God to some kind of ministry. Some will nary convention; this was the gathering of Christ’s ask the bishops about seminary, others about service in Church. It is good news that God visits and dwells the communities in which they live. Still others will be among His people. God is alive and well, and living inspired to study music, or Christian Education; some among His people. What news! will meet the chairmen of various departments and orga- Considering other assemblies of Christians in this nizations, allowing them opportunities to serve the Lord century, perhaps the most newsworthy news of all is through His Church on the Archdiocesan or Regional that when we gather we have no news that the secular levels. Yes indeed, God will be working in His Church. press would call “newsworthy.” God’s love for us, and I thank God for the service of Metropolitan Philip our love for one another, allow us to discern with and Bishop Antoun. I can’t imagine where I would be, humility the eternal truths and to preserve them. or where our Church would be without them. I also Imagine what our headlines might look like! thank them for what they have done for me, my family, my parish, my friends, and for the readers of The CHURCH GATHERS WITH NO HIDDEN AGEN- WORD. God grant Metropolitan PHILIP and Bishop DAS, NO SUB-GROUPS, NO PROTESTS, NO ANTOUN many years!

June 2001 3 INTERVIEW

An Interview

WITH HIS EMINENCE METROPOLITAN GEORGE KHODRE OF MOUNT LEBANON

R. THOMAS ZAIN INTER- cephalous Churches. For example, ple, the rediscovery of God in Russia F viewed Metropolitan George how can we have unity on certain and is a great thing. for The WORD at the Arch- issues in the modern world? There is a new freedom in the diocese Headquarters during Bright From time to time, we see tension Church as we enter the 21st century Week, while Metropolitan George in inter-Orthodox relations, i.e. which we have not experienced for was visiting Metropolitan Philip. Moscow and Constantinople, many centuries. Hopefully, this free- Metropolitan George is one of the Jerusalem and Antioch, etc. What dom will also provide a healthy senior members of the Holy Synod kind of a mechanism should we atmosphere for our Church. of Antioch. Orthodox employ to rectify these Your Eminence, you have been Your Eminence, active in the ecu- you are known in menical move- the Orthodox ment for many world as an years. What has accomplished the- the ecumenical ologian and a movement accom- visionary man. plished for the How do you see cause of Christian the future of the unity? The main in the 21st centu- accomplishment, ry? in my opinion, is The situation the discovery by now is not the the Protestants of best. One could the mystery of the better speak about Church instead of the coming years. the more empiri- The present time cal view of the is one of tensions Church prior to among some the beginning of Churches, namely the movement. Moscow and Fr. Thomas Zain, Metropolitan Philip, Metropolitan George, Bishop Antoun and Fr. Consequently, all Constantinople. Michael Evans at the Archdiocese Headquarters member churches In many of our also recognize the Churches we have some inner ten- situations? Who can bring our importance and depth of sions as well. These tensions exist Patriarchs together to solve these and . I think there is also between the more rigid and more problems? respect of other member churches liberal thinkers, i.e. the length of the Actually, this question is a contin- in so far as they do not proselytize services, the language of the services uation of my previous answer. I feel to the extent they once did. I feel (using old or dead languages like that we need an assembly consisting the knowledge of the Holy classical Greek or old Slavonic), new of representatives of all the auto- became deeper also as a result of ways of evangelization vis-á-vis cephalous Churches as a consulta- our many meetings and years of those who would not change one tive body to inspire, but not oblige interaction. iota of the way things are currently them, to analyze and solve the prob- Practically speaking, I feel the done and how we approach them. lems and issues that our Orthodox development of the exchange of We feel we need some place, if you Church is facing as we begin the charity and assistance to other like, of collaboration and some 21st century. churches in times of need has also instrument of a deeper unity, both Nevertheless, there is indeed a been fostered by the ecumenical within and among the various auto- renewal in our churches. For exam- movement.

4 The Word INTERVIEW

There have been many discus- of his own ethnic group and center- the Syriac Church or the other so- sions about one date for Pascha. We ing him in a certain geographical called non-Chalcedonians. We do, know that Pascha transcends cal- area separate from the other bishops however, have a special relationship endars and astronomical calcula- of the synod, while at the same time with the Syriac Church, especially tions. What is the position of belonging to the local synod of bish- in the . There are many Antioch vis-á-vis a common date ops. This would take care of both towns, especially in northern Syria, for Pascha? the needs of the immigrants and the where only one parish exists, be it We in Antioch proposed to the territorial principle until such time theirs or ours. There may be no Roman Catholics that in the Middle as a more traditional structure other parish for many miles. In East they follow the would allow itself to be employed. those cases, we allow marriages, for for the date of Pascha. In the execu- For example, in Egypt, they recently example, to take place in each tive council of the Middle East elected a Metropolitan for the city of other’s churches, as well as shared Council of Churches, they adopted Tanta. He is a member of the Holy communion, etc. This is a special this decision. Unfortunately, howev- Synod, but he received a personal agreement between the Patriarchate er, the various Catholic Churches in mandate to minister to the Arabic of Antioch and the Syriac Church. the Middle East did not implement it speaking people within the Concerning the Catholic and, until now, we do not know why. Patriarchate of Alexandria. Church, they officially proposed the Catholics could indeed follow our Unfortunately, Antioch as a idea of “double-communion” with calendar because they were allowed Patriarchate can do little but suggest both Rome and the Orthodox to do so by Pope Paul VI as a result a solution to the Ecumenical Church at the same time. They say of the Second Vatican Council. Patriarch because he claims that they are in communion with the Everyone is in Pope, as the favor of having a Papacy existed in common date for the first millenni- Pascha, but I do um. We totally not foresee it hap- reject this idea pening anytime because the Pope soon because very himself does not many Orthodox consider his populations are Papacy that of the not pushing for it, first millennium. especially where They have to they do not mix come back to the with Catholics like mother Church. in Russia or There seems to Greece. There are be a tremendous also historical tension in prejudices against Lebanon between the Catholic the Christians Church in places and the Muslims, like Serbia and the reminiscent of the Ukraine. days that preced- Your Eminence, ed the 1975 civil has been in North any solution must be done through war. Is the Orthodox Church in America for more than 200 years his auspices. Given the differing Lebanon playing any role to ease and we still exist in an uncanoni- opinions of the various mother this tension and, if so, what? cal state, i.e. a multiplicity of juris- Churches who have flocks in this I do not feel that there is any ten- dictions on the same territory. What country, especially the solution put sion in the general population. The can Antioch do to help correct this forward by the Ecumenical tension is more ideological. There situation in the near future? Patriarch, that is, that everyone in are those that want the Syrian The canonical solution must be the Americas should be united troops to leave Lebanon and those adopted at some point in dealing under the Ecumenical Patriarch, I that want them to stay. I do not with this problem, that is, one synod do not see a solution in the near envision a return to the civil war and one local church with diversity. future. that plagued our country during the For example, I foresee that we could How do you define our relation- 1970’s and 1980’s. As far as I am create a new form of pastoral ship with a. the Syriac Church: are concerned, the Orthodox Church in responsibility, while at the same we in communion with the so- Lebanon has and will continue to be time adhering to the canonical called non-Chalcedonians? and b. a bridge between the various reli- norm. My solution would be to have the Melkite Greek ? gious and political groups in a synod of bishops, each taking care We are not in communion with Lebanon.

June 2001 5 INTERVIEW

Recently, His Beatitude Patriarch fact, you wrote a book about it. Why the St. John of Damascus School of Ignatius IV asked the bishops of our have you been silent on this issue? Theology at Balamand, we noticed Patriarchate their opinions regard- Well, to be frank, I was against the that every two or three years a new ing liturgical reform and the PLO when they conquered a part of dean is appointed. How can this restoration of the office of dea- Lebanon in 1975, extending the war school achieve theological and coness. What was your response? in Lebanon. Many of their leaders administrative stability under these Well, let me begin by saying that later admitted it was wrong. After conditions? these issues have not yet been dis- that, especially since the intifada, I My view about the ability and cussed at the Holy Synod. I think as began again to support them in their necessity of continuity can be far as liturgical reform is concerned, call for a homeland and for self- summed up as follows: the focus is on the Divine determination. 1. Our students who complete and the length as far as musical Your Eminence, aside from elect- their higher studies abroad arrangements are concerned, not so ing bishops for various dioceses should be appointed as profes- much shortening what already within the Patriarchate of Antioch, sors and teach our students on exists. For example, there are great what else has the Holy Synod of a permanent basis; doxologies that take twenty minutes Antioch accomplished for the glory 2. We should try to appoint a or more to sing just prior to the of God during your tenure as a dean for the long-term that is . Every reform must member of the Holy Synod? mature and has an academic start by a careful study of liturgical Well, we discuss our representa- background, as well as some- theology and pastoral psychology in tion in the ecumenical movement, one who is grounded in the the present world. our relations with the and spiritual life of the Church. Concerning the deaconesses, I am other Middle Eastern Churches. If we can implement these two personally against restoring this Admittedly, however, we do spend ideas, I think this will achieve stabil- order to the Church. Their role in most of our time on electing bish- ity and continuity for the institute. the 4-5th centuries was very specif- ops. Hopefully, we ic, that is, to help in the baptism of will do more in the adult women and to teach women future. about the faith. Today, the vast We know, Your Effective immediately, the Publications majority of our are infant Eminence, that you Department of the Antiochian Orthodox baptisms (almost exclusively so in have founded the the Middle East) and women and Orthodox Youth Archdiocese is now making available the book, men are taught together. I would Movement within the Jesus, Politics and the Church Updated and also feel very uncomfortable serving Patriarchate of in the sanctuary with a person of Antioch. Has this Revised, by Tony Nassif. the opposite sex because the bishop movement lived up Mr. Nassif is an ordained and is or often embraces the , to your expectations? an internationally known speaker and com- for example, and it would be an There is still a lot unnecessary distraction. Most of all, of enthusiasm in the mentator on public policy issues. however, there is simply no need for youth movement. It This book demonstrates from the Old and it. The main functions of the dea- continues to work coness are either no longer needed and grow. As is well of the and the writings or can be done by laywomen with- known, many of our and stories of such early as out being ordained. bishops, priests and Since there are very few celibate as well as John Chrysostom, Cyril of Jerusalem, Ambrose clergy outside the boundaries of the the revival of our of Milan, and numerous others that Orthodox ancient Patriarchate, what is your monastic communi- opinion about the restoration of a ties are a direct Christians have an obligation, not an option, to married episcopate? result of youth move- be politically active. I am in favor of a married episco- ment. In spite of pate as it was prior to the Council of those successes, we Mr. Nassif has been interviewed on over 200 Trullo. There can be both bishops have yet to realize a radio and television programs nationally and from the monastic ranks as it cur- couple of our goals, internationally on the subject of Christians in rently is and married bishops, as is such as the theologi- the long and ancient tradition of our cal education of all of politics and has been active in politics for Church. our clergy and the decades. Your Eminence, forgive me if this catechetical training question has a political connota- of the majority of our To order this book please contact the tion. In your writings years ago, lay people. Archdiocese Publications Department. you spoke about justice for the Since this Arch- Palestinian people; as a matter of diocese established

6 The Word ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE

ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE

Donations made to the Antiochian Village Heritage and Learning Center Library — NAC Teen SOYO Book Project, 2001

Catherine Beshara William C. Ansara James D. Cuckler, Jr. In memory of Talal Haddad In memory of Andrew W. Ansara St. John Orthodox Cathedral St. Elias Orthodox Church In honor of Yvette Ansara In memory of Dn. Chris Sorensen Antoun Saoud In honor of Kristina & Zeyad Morcos In memory of Wadiha, Antoun, Elena Ansara In memory of Elias Morcos Raffoul, Badiha, Helen, Salim In honor of William & Katherine St. George Teen SOYO In honor of Saoud Antous Ansara (Cedar Rapids) & Family John & Rosemary Shumski In honor of Fr. Paul Baba Gerald M. & Katie Gabriel In honor of Shumski Family In honor of Nicola Antakli Mr. & Mrs. Arthur R. Stika St. George Teen SOYO, Little Falls In memory of Eleni Shtika Dolores Zuder Vicki D. Caruso Donations to The WORD In memory of Sotero M. Rocha In memory of Nicholas & Dorothy Sharon Ribarich Chapasko Eva B. Sawayer In memory of Ronald & Olena Basarab Worcester, MA $ 25.00 Isabel Audey Makdad In memory of John & Anna Tynda; Rosalyn E. Roe Helen Weddle Nicholas Basarab Lakewood, CO 25.00 In honor of Michael H. Tom Anne Brodmerkel James Nicholas Weddle In memory of Hal & Helen Tom Albuquerque, NM 100.00 Gloria M. & Lorice A. Swydan V. Rev. Michael & Laila Ellias Patti & Richard Ayesh In memory of In memory of Wichita, KS 25.00 Herbert S. Swydan Dr. John L. Boojamra Anonymous George F. Freije James Rihbany E. Grand Rapids, MI 35.00 In honor of Ann Freije In memory of Nahoum Rihbany Trina Ann & Michael Damas In memory of Fred M. Freije In memory of Rose Rihbany Sylvania, OH 50.00 In memory of In memory of Frederick Rihbany Nazmi Lawen George & Agia Freije Sandra Hatrak Charlottetown, PEI 20.00 In memory of George R. Nimmer Christi & Andy Ghiz Frank & Julia Kafoure In memory of Albert Nimmer Houston, TX 50.00 Helen Ferris St. Elijah Teen SOYO Ernest Saykaly In memory of James J. Ferris (Oklahoma City) Montreal, PQ 500.00 & Carolyn Sue (Honey) Ferris In honor of Teen SOYO John & Michele Aber George Nahas of St. Elijah Trafford, PA 20.00 In memory of Virginia K. Nahas Helen & George Salem Elaine S. Jacobs Kathleen & Norman Namey; In memory of Francisco Salem New Castle, PA 50.00 Lisa & Richard Cunningham Leo M. & Christine George Ginny Maloley In memory of Fannie Namey In memory of deceased parents Ft. Wayne, IN Si & Julie Saba and son Michael In memory of In honor of George & Mary Saba Mr. & Mrs. Angelius Voris Helen J. Maloley 25.00 Rev. Deacon John Karam In memory of George & Mike & Mona Spivey In memory of Abraham & Evangeline Voris Oklahoma City, OK 20.00 Hawa Karam; Adele (Karam) Col. & Mrs. Jack Nahas Jack Khoury Macey & Mary (Karam) In memory of Jack N. Nahas Alpha, MI 20.00 Romanauski Gerardus Smit Lester & Mabel Ellis Dorothea Husson Kimberly Joyce Sioux City, IA 25.00 In memory of Mary Daoulas In honor of Emily & Leo Boosahda

June 2001 7 ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE

ORDAINED Wichita, KS, on May 13, 2001. DEPOSED Deacon GEORGE ZGOURIDES, to the Assigned to the pastorate at Ss Peter The former priest HERMOGENES holy priesthood by Bishop Basil at and Paul Church in Topeka, KS, RIZO, effective April 2, 2001. St. George Cathedral in Wichita, KS, effective July 1. on the feast of St. George, April 23, APPOINTED 2001. He is assigned to the interim THE BISHOPS MEET ON Father MICHAEL PAVEZ as the perma- MAY 4, 2001 AT THE pastorate at Ss Peter and Paul nent pastor of St. Michael Church, ARCHDIOCESE Mission in Albuquerque, NM, effec- Beaumont, TX, effective April 17, HEADQUARTERS tive May 21, 2001. 2001. Deacon GEORGE (DOUGLAS) KEVORKIAN to the holy priesthood by Metropolitan Philip at St. George Church, Little Falls, NJ on . He is attached to that parish. Sub-deacon KEVIN SCHERER to the diaconate by Bishop Antoun at St. Anthony Church, Bergenfield, NJ on April 1, 2001. He is attached to that parish while he completes his semi- nary studies. Deacon JAMES DOUGHERTY, to the Holy Priesthood on May 13, 2001 at Saints Peter and Paul Church, Potomac, MD. Deacon MICHAEL (ALAN) SHANBOUR, to the holy priesthood by Bishop Basil at St. George Cathedral in

DAILY DEVOTIONS JULY, 2001

1. 1 CORINTHIANS 12:27-13:8; MATTHEW 8:5-13 17. 1 CORINTHIANS 6:20-7:12; MATTHEW 14:1-13 2. ROMANS 12:4-5, 15-21; MATTHEW 12:9-13 18. 1 CORINTHIANS 7:12-24; MATTHEW 3. ROMANS 14:9-18; MATTHEW 12:14-16, 22-30 14:35-15:11 (FAST) 4. ROMANS 15:7-16; MATTHEW 12:38-45 (FAST) 19. 1 CORINTHIANS 7:24-35; MATTHEW 15:12-21 20. JAMES 5:10-20; LUKE 4:22-30 (FAST) 5. ROMANS 15:17-28; MATTHEW 12:46-13:3 21. ROMANS 12:1-3; MATTHEW 10:37-11:1 6. ROMANS 16:1-16; MATTHEW 13:4-9 (FAST) 22. ROMANS 15:1-7; MATTHEW 9:27-35 7. ROMANS 8:14-21; MATTHEW 9:9-13 23. 1 CORINTHIANS 9:13-18; MATTHEW 16:1-6 8. ROMANS 10:1-10; MATTHEW 8:28-9:1 24. 1 CORINTHIANS 10:5-12; MATTHEW 16:6-12 9. ROMANS 16:17-24; MATTHEW 13:10-23 25. 1 CORINTHIANS 10:12-22; MATTHEW 16:20-24 10. 1 CORINTHIANS 1:1-9; MATTHEW 13:24-30 (FAST) 11. 1 CORINTHIANS 2:9-3:8; MATTHEW 13:31-36 26. 1 CORINTHIANS 10:28-11:7; MATTHEW (FAST) 16:24-28 12. 1 CORINTHIANS 3:18-23; MATTHEW 13:36-43 27. 2 TIMOTHY 2:1-10; JOHN 15:17-16:2 (FAST) 28. ROMANS 13:1-10; MATTHEW 12:30-37 13. 1 CORINTHIANS 4:5-8; MATTHEW 13:44-54 29. 1 CORINTHIANS 1:10-18; MATTHEW 14:14-22 (FAST) 30. 1 CORINTHIANS 11:31-12:6; MATTHEW 14. ROMANS 9:1-5; MATTHEW 9:18-26 18:1-11 15. TITUS 3:8-15; MATTHEW 5:14-19 31. 1 CORINTHIANS 12:12-26; MATTHEW 16. 1 CORINTHIANS 5:9-6:11; MATTHEW 13:54-58 18:18-22, 19:1-2, 13-15 By Very Rev. George Alberts

8 The Word ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE

DAILY DEVOTIONS august, 2001

1. 1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-14:5; MATTHEW 20:1-16 16. 2 CORINTHIANS 4:1-6; MATTHEW 24:13-28 DORMITION FAST BEGINS 17. 2 CORINTHIANS 4:13-18; MATTHEW 24:27-33, 42-51 2. 1 CORINTHIANS 14:6-19; MATTHEW 20:17-28 (FAST) (FAST) 3. 1 CORINTHIANS 14:26-40; MATTHEW 18. 1 CORINTHIANS 1:3-9; MATTHEW 19:3-12 21:12-14, 17-20 (FAST) 19. 1 CORINTHIANS 9:2-12; MATTHEW 18:23-35 4. ROMANS 14:6-9; MATTHEW 15:32-39 (FAST) 20. 2 CORINTHIANS 5:10-15; MARK 1:9-15 5. 1 CORINTHIANS 3:9-17; MATTHEW 14:22-34 (FAST) 21. 2 CORINTHIANS 5:15-21; MARK 1:16-22 6. 2 PETER 1:10-19; MATTHEW 17:1-9 22. 2 CORINTHIANS 6:11-16; MARK 1:23-28 (FAST) HOLY TRANSFIGURATION (FAST) 23. 2 CORINTHIANS 7:1-10; MARK 1:29-35 7. 1 CORINTHIANS 15:29-38; MATTHEW 21:23-27 (FAST) 24. 2 CORINTHIANS 7:10-16; MARK 2:18-22 (FAST) 8. 1 CORINTHIANS 16:4-12; MATTHEW 21:28-32 (FAST) 25. 1 CORINTHIANS 1:26-29; MARK 20:29-34 9. 2 CORINTHIANS 1:1-7; MATTHEW 21:43-46 (FAST) 26. 1 CORINTHIANS 15:1-11; MARK 19:16-26 10. 2 CORINTHIANS 1:12-20; MATTHEW 22:23-33 (FAST) 27. 2 CORINTHIANS 8:7-15; MARK 3:6-12 11. ROMANS 15:30-33; MATTHEW 17:24-18:4 (FAST) 28. 2 CORINTHIANS 8:16-9:5; MARK 3:13-19 12. 1 CORINTHIANS 4:9-16; MATTHEW 17:14-23 (FAST) 29. ACTS 13:26-32; MARK 6:14-30 (STRICT FAST) 13. 2 CORINTHIANS 2:4-15; MATTHEW 23:13-22 (FAST) BEHEADING OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST 14. 2 CORINTHIANS 2:14-3:3; MATTHEW 23:23-28 (FAST) 30. 2 CORINTHIANS 10:7-18; MARK 3:28-35 15. PHILIPPIANS 2:5-11; LUKE 10:38-42, 11:27-28 (FAST) 31. 2 CORINTHIANS 11:5-21; MARK 4:1-9 (FAST) By Very Rev. George Alberts

DAILY DEVOTIONS SEPTEMBER, 2001

1. 1 CORINTHIANS 2:6-9; MATTHEW 22:15-22 16. GALATIANS 2:16-20; MARK 8:34-9:1 2. 1 CORINTHIANS 16:13-24; MATTHEW 21:33-42 17. GALATIANS 4:28-5:10; LUKE 3:19-22 3. 2 CORINTHIANS 12:10-19; MARK 4:10-23 4. 2 CORINTHIANS 12:20-13:2; MARK 4:24-34 18. GALATIANS 5:11-21; LUKE 3:23-4:1 5. 2 CORINTHIANS 13:3-13; MARK 4:35-41 19. GALATIANS 6:2-10; LUKE 4:1-15 (FAST) (FAST) 20. EPHESIANS 1:1-9; LUKE 4:16-22 6. GALATIANS 1:1-10, 20:2-5; MARK 5:1-20 7. GALATIANS 2:6-10; MARK 5:22-24, 35:6-1 21. EPHESIANS 1:7-17; LUKE 4:22-30 (FAST) (FAST) 22. 1 CORINTHIANS 10:23-28; LUKE 4:31-36 8. PHILIPPIANS 2:5-11; LUKE 10:38-42, 11:27-28 23. GALATIANS 4:22-27; LUKE 5:1-11 BIRTH OF THE 9. GALATIANS 6:11-18; JOHN 3:13-17 24. EPHESIANS 1:22-2:3; LUKE 4:37-44 10. GALATIANS 11-16; MARK 5:24-34 25. EPHESIANS 2:19-3:7; LUKE 5:12-16 11. GALATIANS 2:21-3:7; MARK 6:1-7 26. EPHESIANS 3:8-21; LUKE 5:33-39 (FAST) 12. GALATIANS 3:15-22; MARK 6:7-13 (FAST) 13. GALATIANS 3:23-4:5; MARK 6:30-45 27. EPHESIANS 4:14-19; LUKE 6:12-19 14. 1 CORINTHIANS 1:18-24; JOHN 19:6-11, 13-20, 28. EPHESIANS 4:17-25; LUKE 6:17-23 (FAST) 25-35 (STRICT FAST) ELEVATION OF THE HOLY CROSS 29. 1 CORINTHIANS 14:20-25; LUKE 5:17-26 15. 1 CORINTHIANS 1:26-29; JOHN 8:21-30 30. 2 CORINTHIANS 6:16-7:1; LUKE 6:31-36 By Very Rev. George Alberts

June 2001 9 A Message to my Friends and Peers …

BY DENA HADDAD

AM AN ANTIOCHIAN ORTHO- that taught me so much about my friends through my Church involve- I dox Christian, 25 years old, liv- faith and gave me the opportunity to ment. ing on my own in Chicago, and make friendships of a lifetime, could I was not fortunate enough to want to be more involved with my disappear. experience the camping bond that Church. When I graduated from col- I want the future generations to occurs at the Antiochian Village. I lege nothing seemed to fit. I must experience the same wonderful feel- missed out but now wished I hadn’t. not have been looking in the right ings I did being involved and com- I have seen the friendships that places. All I knew was that I didn’t mitted to my Church. I got fright- have formed through the summers want to give up my desire to serve ened because it occurred to me that at camp. They are unique! What and be a part of something that had wishing and hoping weren’t good makes these bonds so strong and been so special in my life. enough. I couldn’t keep searching all special is they have Orthodoxy as For the past year, I had been look- my life. I had to get into action. I the glue that holds them together. ing for a way to become involved in decided that night that my search This experience also leaves a life- the Church. Throughout my college was over. As I thought of all the time impression on an individual. years I felt I had lost touch, which things that meant a lot to me the I awoke Sunday morning wonder- seems to be a trend within my gen- answer became clear: THE ORDER ing again what I would do when I eration. I needed something to OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH. I walked into Church. Would I say believe in, a project in which I could know what you are thinking: I’m too “Yes” if asked to join? Would I step help others grow spiritually, espe- young to be a member for life of the forward on my own? I walked in the cially my friends and those getting Order. What do I have in common front door and knew the final ready to go to college. But what? On with all those people? I decided that moment had come. There wasn’t a the night of October 13 my search I am NOT too young to accept moment’s hesitation when I was was finally over. responsibility for the future of MY asked if I was ready to be a member Last fall I went home for the Church. I didn’t care if I was one of today. Divine Liturgy ended and weekend to celebrate the consecra- the youngest adults to join because Metropolitan Philip came out from tion of the new Church at my home it was time for me to support an the sanctuary and said it was time parish, St. Nicholas, Grand Rapids, organization that plays a vital role in to induct new members into the MI. On Saturday evening the parish the future of Church. I just knew it; Order. He said it was a lifetime com- hosted a Grand Banquet with there was no doubt in my mind or in mitment that each individual was Metropolitan Philip as the keynote my heart. making before God. It was as if he speaker. There were many very Why The Order of St. Ignatius? It were talking just to me. I raised my touching presentations honoring is an organization that supports right hand and pledged to God that I those who had faithfully served the many programs that I believe in and was ready to serve Him through the parish. Something happened during that have touched me personally. Order for the rest of my life. the course of that evening. I don’t The Order contributes to the youth Metropolitan Philip put the Cross know if it was the Metropolitan’s in many different ways such as the over my head. I did it! It was the speech or the walk down memory College Conference, Antiochian proudest moment of my life. lane. It was almost eerie. The same Village, Youth Ministry, and the If you would like more informa- thoughts kept coming into my mind Heritage and Learning Center. It has tion about The Order of St. Ignatius and they wouldn’t go away. I kept helped to create and maintain many of Antioch and how you can partici- thinking about all the great experi- important pieces of the infrastruc- pate in this wonderful ministry, ences I had growing up in the ture of our Archdiocese. check out the Order’s web pages at: Church and the positive impact they The Order of St. Ignatius is com- or had on me. Yes, I am only 25 years mitted to supporting the youth of email . old, but I have fond memories of my our regions. There is the College Church, too! I recognized how Conference where college-age youth Dena Haddad is one of the blessed I was to have had these are brought together to pray, learn younger members of the Order and experiences. The Church touched and have fun together. The experi- belongs to St. Nicholas Church, me in many ways, most importantly ences that take place during these Grand Rapids, MI. spiritually. I realized that if I don’t events leave a lifetime impression do something NOW, all these things on an individual. I met my best

10 The Word 25 YEARS OF SERVICE

TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF SERVICE: THE ORDER OF ST. IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH: its raison d’Etre^

BY VERY REV. ANTONY GABRIEL

“We have not only to be called Christians, but to be Christians.” (St. Ignatius: Letter to the Magnesians 4:1)

“Pay attention to the Bishop so that God will pay attention to you.” (St. Ignatius: Letter to Polycarp)

WENTY-FIVE YEARS HAS mitted and enlightened laymen by His Eminence at the Arch- T quickly lapsed into history’s throughout North America. In those diocesan Convention in Louisville, grasp. A wise man and vision- days, while there was no dearth of KY, and the first inductions took ary foresaw the necessity of a mecha- skepticism regarding the success of place, enthusiasm was already gen- nism that would ensure the erated for the creation of the viability of the Antiochian Order of St. Ignatius of Orthodox Christian Antioch. Archdiocese as the 21st Saint Ignatius, an Century loomed on the hori- Antiochian “witness” who left zon. Hence, in the years 1974- a rich written legacy, was 1975, Metropolitan Philip com- unanimously adopted as the missioned Mr. Albert Joseph, Patron of the Order as a together with a small commit- model for modern Christians tee comprised of Messrs. to follow. The members of the Ernest Saykaly, Robert Order were called to a new Andrews, Robert Laham, type of sacrifice patterned Theodore Mackoul, after his humble devotion to Protosyngelos Ellis Khouri, the Church and the hierarchy. Archpriests Paul Schneirla and In subsequent Archdiocesan Antony Gabriel, to begin the Conventions, San Francisco process that would ultimately in 1976 and Washington in evolve into what is now known 1977, presided over by His as the Order of St. Ignatius of Beatitude Elias IV, one could Antioch. The full history of this witness the rebirth of the development is available else- of the North American where. My concentration is on Antiochian Archdiocese. The the vision, “the why” the Order such an endeavor, there was like- goals of the Order at that time were came into being. What is relevant to wise a wealth of positive-thinking responsive to the intellectual, spiri- this reflection is the fact that nothing laypersons. The crux of the matter tual and humanitarian yearnings of existed within the Archdiocese which was the heightened awareness that so many. They were seeking an out- could give expression to the talents of the time was ripe for this call to let to give expression of their love of an involved laity. An organization action. the Church and their abiding com- was required to give them a voice. The Metropolitan appointed mitment to Metropolitan Philip’s From the early days of Philip Albert Joseph, who, together with leadership and vision. Saliba’s primacy, it was increasingly His Eminence, enlisted a number of Fellowship and intimacy were the evident that the role of the laity participants willing to commit to hallmarks of the early gatherings of needed refocusing. These ideas supporting the Archdiocese in a new the Order, and this compelling matured into a clarion call to action and bold way. By 1975 when the aspect united people throughout by Metropolitan Philip to the com- provisional committee was installed North America. The mutual discov-

June 2001 11 25 YEARS OF SERVICE

ery of one another contributed Church in the “new” world, as well makes this Archdiocese the most immensely to the lofty ideals as the as impacting the Patriarchates over- vibrant in North American Order was inaugurated by Metro- seas. Furthermore, fresh ideas need- Orthodoxy. politan Philip and its first officers: ed to be circulated among the con- The Apostolic ministry of our Albert Joseph, Chairman, Ernest stituency of the Archdiocese, as new Primate has unleashed a fresh ideal- Saykaly, Vice-Chairman, Charles challenges emerged almost daily. It ism within the Archdiocese; it is a Dowd, Treasurer, George Ghiz, is axiomatic that vocations were to fact that scores of laymen and clergy Secretary, Archpriest Antony be encouraged; retirement benefits have come forward with their rich Gabriel, North American Chaplain. for the clergy needed upgrading; talents, spirituality and material The success of the Order at this educational ventures required resources in the service of the early stage was rooted in a new pio- expansion (at home and abroad); Church. Now in the 21st century we neer spirit of redefining the way the missions needed support; young have the prayerful confidence that Archdiocese meets its obligations people had to get to the Antiochian the Church in North America will be and challenges in an ever-changing Village; creative religious materials prepared with the tools to with world. Parents and grandparents, needed printing; technologies and whatever uncertainties or new facts first and second generation Arab media communication skills consis- await us. This is a challenge that the Americans and Canadians of tent with this age needed implemen- Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch has Orthodox heritage, had a major con- tation; a unique manuscript library accepted lovingly and willingly for cern regarding the institution of the of our Antiochian legacy had to be twenty-five years, and continues to Archdiocese and the growth of the assembled; and on goes the list. accept. Church on the local level. They All this required immense time, This is the vision of the Order of mustered their time and energy, and reflection and the human resources St. Ignatius of Antioch. May our yes, financial resources, traveling to match the commitments that patron, the Martyr-Bishop across North America to various have been made by the Church hier- IGNATIUS, continue to point the meetings and assemblies with the archs, namely Metropolitan Philip. way to a new Christian witness of hope that something new and won- The Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch service to the Church of God and derful was happening for the now has been a kind of touchstone for His people. and for the future. the laity to encourage active partici- Indeed, all that did take place, and pation in the maturation process of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian the Archdiocese as it engages a Archdiocese is vastly different and world in transition, and to support certainly “richer” for the inspired Metropolitan Philip’s humanitarian labors of the founders of the Order mission beyond the confines of the “Make certain, therefore, of St. Ignatius of Antioch. There is Archdiocese. The members of the that you all observe one com- no aspect of the archdiocesan, Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch have mon Eucharist; for there is but regional or local life of the an important and historic role to Antiochian Church at home or play in the enterprise of the present, one Body of our Lord Jesus abroad that has not been touched by as well as the engagement with the Christ, and but one cup of the generosity and deep love of the future. Seeds may be planted that union with His Blood, and one members of the Order. will mature into trees, bearing fruit single of sacrifice — Fundamentally, when all is said that we may not taste, but there is and done, the Archdiocese is wide- abiding satisfaction in sowing the even as also there is but one spread throughout the North seeds for others to enjoy. bishop, with his clergy and American continent. Mechanisms There is no better example of this my own fellow-servitors the that unite Antiochians for the com- than their first major project! The deacons. This will ensure that mon good are not luxuries but Antiochian Village has become the necessities in a highly depersonal- spiritual home of thousands of all your doings are in full ized society. Therefore, the Order of campers. The Heritage and Learning accord with the will of God.” St. Ignatius of Antioch became that Center, where thousands of clergy creative vehicle to knit the Arch- and laity join together in the redis- diocesan family together by serving covery of their Antiochian faith and (St. Ignatius and seeing “the larger picture” with culture, the symposia, the meetings to the His Eminence. The seminal needs, of the Archdiocese organizations, Philadelphians) then, have grown beyond one’s the Antiochian House of Studies, the imagination. St. Thekla Pilgrimage, are just a few There were a multiplicity of of the many adventures in faith that demands being placed upon the will bear fruit in generations to shoulders of the Metropolitan come. The Antiochian Village alone Primate to respond to the forces of is a testament to the wide range of Fr. Antony Gabriel is pastor of St. secularization on the ancient Metropolitan Philip’s thinking that George Church, Montreal, Quebec.

12 The Word Numb and Numb … er

BY DAN NICHOLAS

HAT IS IT WITH DESIRE, this stuff! This drive. Maybe I was about Jesus. Before us was not a sea- W with passion, with zeal? just getting too old! Or too religious son in which to go numb, His Grace Is this a good thing or a … in a bad way. So, I took all of this explained. and were bad thing for me as an Orthodox doubt inside … plus my questions, not to be a tool or a season to Christian? I went straight from my confusions about this word “pas- unfeel, shut down, or tune out … church and a homily on the pas- sion” and this other word “passions” but a time to feel! To come alive! sions to the game at a friend’s house. and resolved to make a trip to the Tempting it is to mask what we And what a fun sporting match it library for some relief from my men- put out there sometimes when we was. My friend was so worked up for tal funk. The Scriptures and the are beat up by laziness and coward- his home team. It was fun to liness and fear or depression. We watch him, actually. Ecstatic, he hold out our “dispassionate” would leap in the air at each aloofness at times, I think, as score. In reverse, he would whoop some spiritual “detachment from and holler, also pound the table in the world.” We wish. As our self- despair at any key stumble by his righteous religious make up dries San Francisco 49ers. Like a child, there and falls off, we see in the he didn’t seem to notice or be self- mirror what is really going on: conscious that others were in the We’ve just been giving up. We’ve room, as it was a key game. And, let our hearts go dim and dimmer heck, it was his own house after … or is it numb and numb … er? all. So there I sat, bewildered a To avoid our humanity somewhat. bit. I was thinking about the To avoid the pain mostly. homily at church just one hour This is what I got from my earlier. The pastor had just study: Passions, the one with the preached on the passions, how “s” at the end, this is no friend. It they trip us, trap us, control us, is this thing or things inside us, war against us, steal our power, the multitude of choking weeds sidetrack us down a wrong road. and besetting sins within the soul But right now my friend is that we are called to war against drawing me in with his unapolo- … because these passions war getic zeal, his passion and feel and Fathers would lead me closer to an against us. But passion, the one with love for this contest. What gives? answer, I hoped. Was Passion Man no “s” at the end, this guest on the There he is, infecting us all with the my friend? Or some enemy from contrary is a dear and true friend. fun of his sport. Every pore of his spiritual comic book hell? Which The ability to feel. A friend without body wide open for his game! Just was it? which we have not a prayer of suc- what was the magnet behind his I thought back to Bishop Joseph ceeding in our relationship with eyes for me? His passion. That was and his last visit to our California either God or man. For it is our pas- it, I think. But this couldn’t be what parish at the beginning of Great sion which propels us onward in our the preacher was talking about, Lent. He spoke to us with such love for God, the very heart that could it? How could what my friend intensity toward fasting and prayer beats for the Beloved in the Song of was exuding there be bad? and pursuing God. My oldest son Solomon. The passions, plural, the We all took a breather at half time. came home from church saying, one with the “s” at the end: how As I grabbed a soda and looked out- “I’m going to work for that man about this guy? No friend here. side I could see a child play and run some day. The Bishop’s awesome!” Passions … are the besetting goofs with excitement and childish aban- His Grace emphasized, at least three and errors and sins that trip us up. donment, unaware of any football times that I recall, how “We must What are yours? My big ones (well- game, of course. I wanted, right feel it.” He delivered with crisp ges- known to my Priest!) on St. John’s then, what that kid had, too. What tures and damp eyes. This was not a Ladder of Divine Ascent: my football friend had. I wanted theological or academic concept for Talkativeness (step #10), De- both. In fact, I think I used to have him. This was life! He was talking spondency (#13), Cowardice (rung

June 2001 13 NUMB AND NUMB … ER

#21), failure at Stillness (step #27), This is what I saw in the Gospels in the joy and hurt of those around Vainglory (step #22) and The Big when I came to Christ unchurched her. It was her passion for Jesus, One at the moment: #18: the temp- at age 15. Unlike Jesus, many of us her openness to be able to feel, and tation to go numb. haven’t wept either in joy or grief in her love for people that made her so Dr. Barbara De Angelis, a therapist years, unable to find again that alive. The distractions of the pas- and New York Times best-selling place in our hearts we knew as small sions represented in gluttony, anger, author with seven books on people children. pride, talkativeness — all the 30 skills addresses this confusion. She John Eldredge shut down hard rungs of St. John’s Ladder — talks about the ability to feel in her after losing his best male friend in a became no impassible barrier, no 1998 book Passion. climbing accident. One minute ultimate slipping place for her. “I know some people who try to there as a vibrant Christian men’s So, I feel less confused now. I will excuse their indifference by mas- group workshop partner and buddy; continue to join my friend, to look querading it as spirituality. ‘I’m not next minute dead. But Eldredge was stupid and yell my head off at 49er indifferent,’ they proclaim. ‘I’m just able to write about his encounter game celebrations, buy red flowers not attached to anything in the out- with loss and somehow he found his and cards for my wife and tell her side world like I used to be.’ This is way back to feeling in The Journey with poetry how beautiful she looks, what I call ‘kindergarten under- of Desire. Ironically, it was taking in attend baseball games on Sunday standing’ of spiritual achievement. the full depth of the pain of losing with my son, dance with crazed History gives us countless exam- delight at the Father-Daughter ples of saints, teachers, and holy Dance on Valentine’s Day with my beings who are the embodiment sixth-grade daughter I call my of caring, compassion and passion “desert flower”. Passion is my and who could never be described friend! I choose to continue as indifferent. It takes courage to unapologetically being an empow- face our indifference.” Dr. De ered man of feeling, with a deep Angelis plays tough, asking each love for this life, for God, for my of us to ask ourselves the difficult family, for my friends, for the question: “How have I been earth as well as the sky. And I will numbing myself to people or be careful also, with the help of things I care about?” my brothers, not to be dragged St. John, writing in the sixth sideways by the individual pas- century, devotes a full step to this sions that drown the soul, trip us question. He says: “In sensibility up and bring us down. both in body and in spirit is dead- I will remember then, with ened feeling, loss of feeling.” Such God’s help, when times get tough a danger it is to get confused here. and I am asked to pick up my He calls numbness “the noose of cross … remember that I must courage,” a place that “gives birth not let the devil win by convinc- to the loss of the fear of God.” He ing me not to care and not to feel says, “He who has lost sensibility his friend that brought him back, life’s sharp edges tripping me into (the ability to feel) is a witless brought back John’s zeal for life, some false spiritual hole of aloofness philosopher.” Who among us has not true desire, real passion. There it or tuning out. By God’s grace I will watched Christians — some young, was all along, on the other side of embrace the tears of the joy and the some old — withdraw, announcing pain. tears of the pain as they come, not proudly that they are no longer “of It was with this same strong zeal run from them. But what if I slip and this world.” and warmth for human kind that go with the temptation not to feel? Our Lord understood passion and Mother Theresa reached out to the Go dead inside? I will have made a desire and the ability to feel, to take poorest of the poor … and why her serious wrong turn and have been in without compromise all the world example pushed my wife and me to tricked by the devil’s smoke and around Him. He was able to weep at name our daughter Theresa. When I mirrors, joined him momentarily in the tomb of a friend, lash together think of the Mother of Calcutta I some cold chamber in hell, a place chords in the temple to drive out think of her namesake, the mystic of ultimate and enduring freezer merchandisers, visit with street- St. Theresa of Avila. There she was, burn from head to toe, where dead walkers. At the end, He told the breathing her last on her sickbed in hearts dwell, a place where the twelve at that very last meal, “I lust- Spain in the 15th century, with the warmth of God is not and is not for- eth to eat this Passover with you!” love poetry of the Song of Solomon ever. When it happens I hope a (King James translation of Luke on her dying lips. She was indeed a brother is there to wake me from 22:15 … some translations say passionate woman, too. And she was my bad dream and boot me down a “earnestly desires”). How like Jesus a servant of God. In love with her better path. to be so in touch with His humanity. Beloved, she was more able to take While putting some final thoughts

14 The Word NUMB AND NUMB … ER

down here, I took a break for my ability to feel. They marveled, did let it all in. Is this not what retain- daughter’s softball game. Sitting next they not, those soldiers who came to ing a passion for life is all about? to an Orthodox widower friend of break Jesus’ legs at the end. They And no surprise it comes easily to a mine, I listened. He still struggles were surprised that He was already child. out loud with Ol’ Numb Rung #18. dead. So open and surrendered and With God’s help may we find He reminded me again that when vulnerable to the sensation of it all courage from the Father to continue his wife died recently he wrestled was our Lord. He remained able to to feel. To say “no” to Ol’ Numb with depression and did not want to feel, committed to feel, until the Rung Number 18 on the Ladder. It is go on. Even now he lacks the pas- end. For this was what the Father good to note here, by the way, that sion, he said. He asked God while wanted, what pleased Him. Jesus on the flip side we do not have to his wife was sick that if she were not may have despised the shame, but lose ourselves in some opposite to get well that God would take him he still felt it. extreme and become what we feel at the same time. No such luck. So How hard these lessons come. … identity, boundaries. These are he must wait, so must we all. But Some fifteen years ago I felt like I yet important. We still have to know how will we live as we wait? And my was losing a dear Orthodox church who we are in Christ, seeking always friend was not the first to be tempt- friend who was going through a the maturity to be able, when need- ed in his pain to think about mess- tough time. When I asked her how ed, to step aside from what we feel ing with God’s timing around the she felt having to give up what God and see what it is that we are learn- waiting part. Thankfully, priest ing. It is at times necessary to and family and friends were there step aside, be objective, but never to remind my friend that the helpful to be coldly so. Orthodox hold no funeral service We must be always ready to for “suicide believers” (a nasty take bravely from the heart what non sequitur), should one of us God sends us, take it in totally … give in to the ultimate numbing body, mind, spirit and soul. From act. We are reminded by Church the summer wind off the meadow tradition of the harsh reality that to a child’s tear or smile. Joy? We we will never see our Orthodox must feel it. Pain? Fasting? Feel loved ones again. Ouch! OK, I’ll it! The death of a friend … the wait … but with a warm heart? Or loss of a lover? Feel it. A church cold. And what to do in the mean schism — now that’s a touch one time? And how? — yes, feel that, too. We didn’t Isn’t it tempting sometimes, for ask for these things but we must all of us to quit. To kill our hearts not cut ourselves off from their just a little bit in some small, less impact. We must not unplug and dramatic way. To hurry our depar- just wait for Jesus to come in the ture a tad, checking out early in clouds. Staying alive may be little corners of our lives, going something as simple and pure as numb a little piece at a time. My taking in the wind in our hair on a daughter at twelve once whispered had asked her to give up, beyond summer morning — and it may be during Liturgy, “Anyone ever love tears at that point she said, “How do our last morning! Whatever it is, we Jesus so much that they killed I feel? I feel numb. I don’t feel any- must not miss it. We must not let it themselves to see Him?” I whis- thing.” I don’t know if she ever recu- pass us by. pered back, “Oh, yes, it has hap- perated from her condition. She So, Numb and Numb … er … says pened. And boy were they surprised eventually moved away and was the signpost up ahead. I resolve to to find how ticked off Jesus is when never emotionally available to us as take the other fork to the right they arrive early! Not a good idea.” I a friend after that. We lost her. She where soft hearts go. Even if it’s the reminded her that believers used to chose to go dead inside in order to one less traveled by. Even if it is be buried next to churches. deal with her pain. uphill. For it is indeed work some- Ultimate “numb … ers”, the “sui- Children have an easier time with times to keep alive the ability to be cide people”, were never permitted this. My daughter and I cried recent- passionate about this life, God’s a church funeral service or to be laid ly as a movie ended. A little embar- work and Christ’s love. Careful now to rest among the faithful in the rassed to let her see my soft side, I up the Ladder … not to trip on Ol’ church cemetery, even if they had asked her if it was a sign of strength Numb Rung #18. Still up for the served God and the Church for or weakness to be able to weep. climb? years. “Both,” she said. A sign of strength Tempting it is to go numb when to say “no” to numb … and a sign of Dan Nicholas is a member of Ss the pain of the cross comes our way. great strength to be able to say “yes” Peter and Paul Antiochian To turn down the volume or our to the joy and the sorrow alike … to Orthodox, Ben Lomond, CA.

June 2001 15 Advanced Directives for Orthodox Christians

BY TOM FOREMAN

DVANCES IN MODERN Often we are faced with the reality health care decisions on your A medicine have presented us that there is no cure for our disease behalf. The Instructive Directive with a multitude of blessings or condition, but there may be treat- enables you to state your prefer- and a host of new questions and ments or therapies available to alle- ences regarding medical care and challenges. Under normal circum- viate the symptoms associated with treatment in a variety of circum- stances we make our own decisions the condition. Decisions must be stances. When utilized together, regarding health care, but what do made concerning what if any of these documents help to ensure that we do when we lose the ability to these options will be chosen. Some you receive the care and treatment make decisions for ourselves? In treatments may in fact which reflects your desires and such instances it is vital that we increase suffering while beliefs. have made our wishes known in at the same time pro- These documents are especially advance to ensure that we receive longing life. In such valuable when there are decisions to the care and treatment that best cases a decision be made at the end of life. They reflects those wishes. By prepar- must be made enable you to specify what if any ing in advance we spare our regarding medical interventions you would families and loved ones from whether the wish to be made on your behalf having to make painful and individual will should you find yourself near the sometimes impossible deci- prolong his end of life and unable to communi- sions regarding our care and suffering or cate with your physician or family. treatment. This advance whether Having an Advanced Directive in preparation should be con- choose to have place releases your loved ones from ducted in the context of our his symptoms having to make decisions regarding Orthodox Christian faith and managed and your care and treatment at a time of in harmony with its teach- complete the tremendous stress and anxiety; free- ings. course of his ing them from that burden while Typically, a person’s desire life with as little providing them with specific direc- regarding care and treat- physical suffer- tion and giving them peace of mind ment if he should become ing as possible. is a blessing from God. Nobody ever incapacitated, even tem- It is in the Ad- wants to be in the position of having porarily, is contained in a vanced Direc- to make the decision to remove a document called an Ad- tive that these ventilator from a parent, no matter vanced Directive for Health desires and how medically appropriate it may Care. An Advanced Direc- wishes are best be. By specifying beforehand your tive is only used to guide communicat- wishes on the matter, nobody ever medical treatment deci- ed. needs to. sions if you lose the ability There are We know from Christ’s words in to make such decisions two types of the Parable of the wise and foolish for yourself. If or when you documents virgins that preparedness in all regain this ability you will associated things is a virtue to strive for. We are again make your own decisions with Advance encouraged to “get our house in and the Advanced Directive will Directives: a order,” so to speak, as we grow not be consulted by those caring for Proxy Directive, generally known as older. We prepare a Will so that you. Advanced Directives are never a Power of Attorney for Health Care; those we leave behind are provided intended to override the decision of and an Instructive Directive, gener- for. More importantly we are to a competent adult, only to provide ally known as a Living Will. The spend our whole lives preparing our guidance when the person becomes Proxy Directive enables you to Soul for its appearance before God incapacitated. appoint an agent who will make on the Day of Judgment. Thoughtful

16 The Word ADVANCED DIRECTIVES FOR ORTHODOX CHRISTIANS

preparation is a Christian responsi- “life of the world to come,” especial- regarding medical care and treat- bility, for we truly “do not know the ly to younger family members who ment, but also about life and death, hour …,” thus, the very notion of an may not understand all of the issues about our relationships with others Advanced Directive is Orthodox. at hand. If the focus is on Faith, and our relationship with God. Your The process of completing an Hope and Love instead of the Spiritual Father can clarify what the Advanced Directive should also be tragedy of death we can instill in our Orthodox position is on matters consistent with Orthodox tradition. youth a hope beyond the grave, as being disputed and whether your There is a strong sense of mutual opposed to the finality portrayed by decisions are consistent with interdependence going back to the popular culture. Church teaching. If these positions days when Christ walked with the It is also extremely important that can be affirmed and supported there Apostles. We, the Church, are the you discuss these issues with your may be less likelihood for intra- and as such are one personal physician, as it may be to familial dispute. in Spirit. The earliest Christian her that the responsibility of adher- The preparation of an Advanced communities were communal in ori- ing to the Advanced Directive falls. Directive and the discussions which entation and the needs of the entire You should review the document arise are difficult even in the best of community were attended to. We with your physician and gain her times. They are a reminder of our are exhorted in Scripture to “bear assurance that the directions which mortality and the sadness which one another’s burdens.” We are not you set forth will be followed. You accompanies the departing of one to place a heavier burden on our may find that your physician will from this world. But the reality is brothers and sisters, but instead to not or cannot follow them; that we will all die, and not dis- lighten it and share it. It is the if this is the case you cussing or preparing for it will not shared experience of the Church should consider slow its coming. We have a responsi- that gives to us Sacred Tradition and replacing your bility to ourselves and to those it is the shared experience of a fami- physician who love us to pre- ly which makes it a family; it is in with one who pare for that day the sharing that we become more of will be able on all levels, spiri- who we are both as individuals and to treat tually, financially, collectively. With this in mind, com- you ac- emotionally and pleting an Advanced Directive cording to medically. The should not be an individual exercise the condi- absence of an but a shared one. There are several tions set Advanced parties to include when considering forth in Directive the issues raised by the completion your Ad- may lead to of an Advanced Directive, including vanced the im- your family, your personal physician Directive. position or and your spiritual Father or spiritual The importance denial of advisor. of concurrence medical care, While it may appear obvious that between you and will sure- you should speak with your family and your physi- ly result in concerning these matters, it is sur- cian on these burdening prising how many times people are matters cannot your loved reluctant to discuss such things. be overstated. ones with deci- Parents don’t wish to worry children Physicians sions which with their health concerns; children ignoring or being you yourself don’t want to upset parents by rais- unaware of the could have ing the subject of serious illness or existence of an made. As Ortho- death. In our attempts to protect Advanced dox Christians one another we often cause more Directive can we need to be harm than we do good. These dis- cause tremendous aware of our cussions should include as many problems not only responsibilities to family members as possible in order for you but for your others and to our- to avoid confusion or misunder- family as well. selves in this mat- standing. Questions and concerns Including your ter. should be addressed in a loving and Spiritual Father in supportive atmosphere; the autono- the preparation and discussions Tom Foreman, my of the individual must always be around an Advanced Directive is a member of St. George Church, respected. These conversations are also essential. There are many com- Pittsburgh, PA, is writing his dis- good opportunities for you to plicated and complex issues raised sertation for a Ph.D. in Medical express your faith and belief in the by such a document, not only Ethics at Duquesne University.

June 2001 17 THE AFTERLIFE and THIS LIFE

BY VERY REV. JOSEPH ALLEN

HEN I FIRST THOUGHT pleasure. Heaven, however, is not a although the body will return to the W about writing a brief arti- place. Neither is hell. These are earth, from which God in the begin- cle on the “afterlife,” I states of being, that is, a condition of ning created all of life, the soul will declined on the basis that any such being with God or not. enter that state of being beyond all article cannot be “brief”! But I We will either be with Him in a earthly and human dimensions. thought about this challenge, and state of union — what the Greek In a natural movement, the soul began to wonder about an still inclines toward the approach which could goal of its existence since it include the critical mes- was created, and that is sage for Orthodox precisely toward union Christian laity. Realizing with its Creator. But reach- the limitations of such an ing that destiny will be endeavor, I offer the follow- The “afterlife,” then, reserved for those who love ing thoughts. the Lord. Theodore Dostoevsky’s is not a city, For those who do not — emphasis that the human and this will be shown in drama can only be under- a village, a park; what Dostoevsky called stood and measured “the human drama,” as against the backdrop of acted out in the present “eternal life” may well be it is a condition of life world — they will continue the most important fact we to exist also, but their hell can learn about the “after- in which we will be will be the absence of God. life.” St. Isaac the Syrian Certainly the Eastern with God or not. described it this way: Orthodox Tradition would “It is not right to say sin- be more inclined to speak ners in hell are deprived of to these terms — those the love of God. But love which lead us to focus on acts in two ways: joy to the acts of mercy, faith, hope, blessed ones, sorrow to the love, social justice, etc. — rather Fathers called kenosis — or not. The renouncing ones.” than addressing the subject in mere Orthodox Faith refers to this state as In perfect line with this, we are mechanical terms. “communion,” or common union; brought back to Dostoevsky, the Such mechanical concepts are oneness with God, and already in “social scientist” of the Orthodox used by humans all the time; we this life we can sacramentally begin East, who said “What is hell? It is have a need to use images relative to participating in that union. the absence of God!” this earthly life. Thus we hear about Yes, it is true that when death The “afterlife,” then, is not a city, the “pearly gates.” We may wonder comes, the soul (psyche) and the a village, a park; it is a condition of with whom we will be sharing our body (soma) split, and the earthly life in which we will be with God or chicken dinner! We may hope that life is no more. A human does not not. It is determined by our choice television will have more available “have” a body, and does not “have” — and the acts to implement the channels! a soul; he or she is a body and soul, choice — which we begin to make But these — and others like them united in a composite whole, and now, precisely in the human drama, — show our utter limitation, our kept alive by the Spirit of God. as to whether we want it to be heav- human bondage to our own material Death breaks that wholeness. But en or hell.

18 The Word ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ARCHDIOCESE PUBLICATIONS DEPARTMENT PHONE 201-871-1355 FAX 201-871-7954 358 Mountain Road, Englewood, New Jersey 07631 Book List and Order Form 2001-2002

THE SCRIPTURES CONSISTENTLY TEACH THE ORTHODOX FAITH … NOW YOU CAN BETTER UNDERSTAND THIS TRADITION AND BECOME MORE GROUNDED IN IT. THE ORTHODOX STUDY BIBLE THIS EXCITING NEW BIBLE IS FOR: • Any Orthodox Person who wants a better understanding of the Faith. • Any new convert who wants to know more about Orthodoxy and the Bible. • Pastors and other leaders who are teaching Orthodoxy in church or Bible studies. • Young people who are looking for an interesting and simple explanation of their Faith.

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June 2001 19 JUNE 2001 ORDER FORM JUNE 2002 TITLE PRICE QUANTITY TOTAL COST FOR OFFICE USE CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: CHURCH SCHOOL MATERIALS: PRESCHOOL The Wonder of It All (Teacher) $ 8.50 The Wonder of It All (Student) 7.50 God, My Friends, and Me (Teacher) 8.50 God, My Friends, and Me (Student) 7.00 KINDERGARTEN Together with God (Student) 8.00 Together with God (Teacher/Parent) 9.00 Birth of Jesus (Flannelgraph) 11.00 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 GRADE ONE God Loves Us (Student) 7.50 God Loves Us (Teacher) 12.00 Lenten Lotto 4.95 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 GRADE TWO New Life in Jesus (Student) 8.00 New Life in Jesus (Teacher) 15.00 Making Things Right (Student) 5.00 Making Things Right (Activity Packet) 3.00 Making Things Right (Teacher) 10.00 God is with Us (Teacher/Parent) 8.00 We Return to God (Teacher/Parent) 2.00 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 GRADE THREE New Life in the Church (Student) 8.00 New Life in the Church (Teacher) 9.00 The Book (Student) 6.00 Forty Saints Text Book (Teacher) 2.00 Forty Saints Coloring Book (Student) 2.00 Divine Liturgy Flip Chart 12.00 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 GRADE FOUR Jesus, The Promise of God (Teacher, New) 11.00 Jesus, The Promise of God (Student, New) 9.50

Jesus, The Promise of God (Teacher) 8.00 PLEASE DO NOT TEAR OFF THIS PAGE Jesus, The Promise of God (Student) 7.00 Icon Cards: Miracles of Christ (Student) 3.50 Icon Cards: Life of Christ (Student) 3.50 Finding Your Way Through The Bible (Student) 5.00 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 GRADE FIVE Our Life in the Church (Student) 7.00 Our Life in the Church (Teacher) 8.00 Divine Liturgy Flip Chart 12.00 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 GRADE SIX In the Beginning (Student) 7.50 In the Beginning (Teacher) 8.50 Exploring How the Bible Came to Be 5.00 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 GRADE SEVEN The Young Church (Student) 7.00 The Young Church (Teacher) 8.50 Acts Map and Chart (Teacher) 12.00 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00

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20 The Word JUNE 2001 ORDER FORM JUNE 2002 TITLE PRICE QUANTITY TOTAL COST FOR OFFICE USE CHRISTIAN EDUCATION: CHURCH SCHOOL MATERIALS: GRADE EIGHT Heroes for Truth (Student) 7.00 Heroes for Truth (Teacher) 8.00 Heroes Worksheets (Student) 2.50 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 GRADE NINE New Frontiers (Student) 7.00 New Frontiers (Teacher) 8.00 Frontiers Worksheets (Student) 2.50 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 GRADE TEN Celebrations: Feast and Holy Days (Student) 8.00 Celebrations: Feast and Holy Days (Teacher) 10.00 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS FOR GRADES 1-3 Lenten Lotto 4.95 The 4.95 Teaching the Parables of Jesus 6.00 My Lenten Journey 7.00 The Divine Liturgy for Children (Set) 10.00 The Divine Liturgy for Children (Text) 7.00 The Divine Liturgy for Children (Activity Book) 7.00 Birth of Jesus (Flannelgraph) 11.00 Divine Liturgy Flip Chart 12.00 Come Bless the Lord Icon Packet (Teacher) 15.00 Byzantine Coloring Books: *Volume 1 — Sunday Gospels 3.00 *Volume 2 — Liturgical 3.00 *Volume 3 — Feast Days 3.00 *Volume 4 — Parables 3.00 Children’s Literature 6.00 Scope and Sequence Chart 2.00 The Icon Book (Student) 6.00 Total Parish Education 6.00

PLEASE DO NOT TEAR OFF THIS PAGE Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS FOR GRADES 4-8 The Ten Commandments 4.95 Teaching the Parables of Jesus 6.00 The Parables (Archbishop Dimitri) 9.95 My Lenten Journey 7.00 The Divine Liturgy for Children (Set) 10.00 The Divine Liturgy for Children (Text) 7.00 The Divine Liturgy for Children (Activity Book) 7.00 Divine Liturgy Flip Chart 12.00 Praise the Lord: A Workbook 3.00 The Lenten Workbook 3.00 Biblical and Liturgical Charts (Student) 3.00 Build Your Own Church (Exterior) 9.00 Build Your Own Iconostasis and Altar 9.00 Build Your Own Bishop, Priest and Deacon 9.00 Iconostasis (Paul Clarensky) 10.95 Bible for Today’s Family 9.95 Desk Outline Map of the Ancient World (Pack) 10.00 Desk Outline Map of the Ancient World (Individual) 1.00 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 SUB-TOTAL B

June 2001 21 JUNE 2001 ORDER FORM JUNE 2002 TITLE PRICE QUANTITY TOTAL COST FOR OFFICE USE SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS FOR GRADES 4-8 GRADE SIX Come Bless the Lord Icon Packet (Teacher) 15.00 The Children of Promise (Western Rite Book) 8.95 Children’s Literature 6.00 Scope and Sequence Chart 2.00 The Icon Book (Student) 6.00 MATERIALS FOR YOUTH WORK Getting Along with Parents 7.95 Lifestyle Discipleship 12.00 Holy Cross Society 5.00 Reruns, Reruns 4.00 Second Helpings 1 5.00 Second Helpings 2 5.00 Retreat & Study Guide 6.00 Focus on You (6 Programs, 30 Sessions) 40.00 Film and Values (Supplemental program to Focus on You) 10.00 Him Again (Supplemental program to Focus on You) 12.00 Youth Dynamics Cassette Leadership Training 25.00 Sourcebook for Youth Work 6.00 ADULT STUDY TEXTS Second Time Around 6.00 The Doctrine of Sanctification 8.00 Christian Community 3.00 Liturgy and Life, Fr. 6.00 Inner Way, Fr. J. Allen 10.99 Pillars of the Church 6.00 New Apostles of Christ 6.00 MATERIALS FOR TEACHERS AND LIBRARIANS Teaching Dynamics Cassette Teacher Training 25.00 Teaching Dynamics Workbook 1.00 Playing It Up for Christmas (6 Christmas Plays) 8.00 Children’s Literature 6.00 Foundations for Christian Education 11.95 Foundations for Christian Education (Cassettes) 7.00 Reading and Parish Library Guide 3.50 Intentional Parenting (Cassettes) by Dr. John Dalack 24.95 YOUNG CHILDREN’S BOOKS Christina Goes to Church 8.50 You Are Special: An Alphabet Book for Children 8.50 My Orthodox Counting Book 8.50

Christina Learns the Sacraments 10.00 PLEASE DO NOT TEAR OFF THIS PAGE Byzantine Coloring Books: *Volume 1 — Sunday Gospels 3.00 *Volume 2 — Liturgical 3.00 *Volume 3 — Feast Days 3.00 *Volume 4 — Parables 3.00 Icon Coloring Books: *The Miracles 5.00 *Special Edition 5.00 *Great Feasts of the Church 5.00 The Book of Jonah 13.95 The Story of Mary the Mother of God 13.95 The Praises: Psalm 148 16.95 Guardian Angels Prayer Book 15.95 We Pray to God — A Prayer Book for Children 2.00 Celebrate the Earth, Psalm 104 13.95 North Star, St. Herman of Alaska 15.95 Prepare O Bethlehem, The Feast of the Nativity 16.95 FAMILY ITEMS How About 6.00 Bible for Today’s Family 9.95 The Biggest Birthday Party (Family Advent) 4.00 Praise the Lord (Family Advent Workbook) 3.00 A Way of Life (Family Centered Activities) 16.00 SUB-TOTAL C

22 The Word JUNE 2001 ORDER FORM JUNE 2002 TITLE PRICE QUANTITY TOTAL COST FOR OFFICE USE FAMILY ITEMS 101 Questions Children Ask About God 11.00 103 Questions Children Ask About Right From Wrong 11.00 The Divine Liturgy — A Text for Students 2.00 Icon of St. Romanos 5.00 Making God Real in the Orthodox Christian Home 11.95 The Great Bible Discovery: Discovering the Baby King (Video) 12.99 The Savior is Born (Video) 12.99 Contemplating (Video) 19.99 The Growing Child in the Christian Home (Cassettes), J. Boojamra 10.00 The Icon Book (Student) 6.00 Teaching Pictures (1 Package, 4 Sets) 35.00 CATECHISM MATERIALS The Faith — Understanding Orthodox : An Orthodox Catechism (Carlton) 22.95 The Way — What Every Protestant Should Know About the Orthodox Faith (Carlton) 22.95 The Truth — What Every Roman Catholic Should Know About the Orthodox Church (Clark Carlton) 22.95 Homeland of Your Heart’s Desire — The Orthodox Teachings on How to be Saved (Carlton) 9.95 Orthodox Christians in America (Erickson) 22.00 The Orthodox Faith (Fr. Hopko) *Volume 1 — Doctrine 8.00 *Volume 2 — Worship 8.00 *Volume 3 — Bible & Church History 8.00 *Volume 4 — Spirituality 8.00 *Complete Set (Vol. 1-4) 30.00 Baptism (Fr. Paul Lazor) 3.00 The Sacrament of Holy Matrimony (Fr. ) 2.00 Holy Wednesday & Holy Thursday (Video) 29.95 Great Friday & Resurrection (Video) 29.95 **Set of Both Videos 50.00 Holy Matrimony (Video) 29.95 Baptism & Chrismation (Video) 29.95 An Orthodox Catechism (New Edition) 3.00 Studies in the Greek Church 6.00

PLEASE DO NOT TEAR OFF THIS PAGE The Orthodox Companion (Abramtsov) 7.00 Meeting the Orthodox (Fr. Thomas Hopko) 2.00 Orthodox Catholic Instruction Books: *Beginners’ Course 2.00 *Primary Course 2.00 *Junior Course 2.00 *Intermediate Course 2.00 Orthodox Christian Catechism 8.95 The Orthodox Church (Ware) 14.95 The Orthodox Way (Ware) 10.95 Orthodox Study Bible — New Testament & the : *Hardcover 24.95 *Bonded Leather Edition 39.95 *Genuine Leather Edition 49.95 *Thumb-indexing, per Bible, add extra 6.00 Coming Home (Fr. Peter Gillquist) 8.95 Welcome Home, A Journey to Antioch (Audio) 25.00 Anglican/Orthodox Pilgrimage (Fr. F. Billerbeck) 5.00 Becoming Orthodox (Fr. Peter Gillquist) 12.95 One Lord, One Faith (Archimandrite V. Bakayannis) 7.50 Introducing the Orthodox Church (Coniaris) 14.95 Introduction to Western Rite Orthodoxy (Fr. Michael Trigg) 5.00 SUB-TOTAL D

June 2001 23 JUNE 2001 ORDER FORM JUNE 2002 TITLE PRICE QUANTITY TOTAL COST FOR OFFICE USE CATECHISM MATERIALS Baptism and Initiation (Cassette & Filmstrip) 25.00 Intentional Parenting (Cassettes) (Dr. J. Dalack) 24.95 SERVICE BOOKS: GENERAL SERVICE BOOKS Service Book of the Archdiocese 8.00 Divine Prayers and Services (Nassar) 25.00 Service Book of the Orthodox Church (Hapgood) 22.00 The Divine Liturgy for Clergy & Laity 7.00 The Pocket Prayer Book (Paperback) 3.00 The Pocket Prayer Book (Vinyl: Red or Black) 3.50 Western Rite Service Book 20.00 The Divine & Holy Gospel Book 100.00 The Liturgikon 50.00 Current Liturgical Guide 15.00 Old & New Testament 15.00 SPECIAL SERVICE BOOKS Evening Divine — Phase I (10 Vol.) 25.00 Evening Divine Liturgies — Phase II (12 Vol.) 30.00 Individual Copies for Christmas 3.00 Individual Copies for 3.00 Individual Copies of Phase II 3.00 The Typica Service 1.00 The Service of Supplication to Our Father Among the Saints, Raphael 5.00 LENTEN SERVICE BOOKS The Service of Holy Unction 2.00 The Little Compline & Akathist Hymn 2.00 Ninth Hour & Typica Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts of St. Gregory the Dialogist (Text with Byzantine & Non-Byzantine Music) 9.95 The Presanctified Liturgy of St. Gregory (Text) 6.00 Liturgy of St. Basil the Great (Pastors’ Text) 2.00 Liturgy of St. Basil the Great (Layman’s Text) 2.00 Services of and Pascha (Fr. J. Rahal) 20.00 BILINGUAL SERVICE BOOKS (ENGLISH/ARABIC) The Divine Liturgy for the Pew 8.00 The Little Compline with the Akathist Hymn 7.00 The Funeral Service for Lay People 7.00 The Funeral Service for a Bishop or Priest 7.00 The New Testament 8.00 International Bible 22.00 ARABIC SERVICE BOOKS The Arabic Service Book (Kassab) 35.00

The Small Arabic Service Book 10.00 PLEASE DO NOT TEAR OFF THIS PAGE Divine Liturgy in Arabic (Vinyl) 12.00 Divine Liturgy in Arabic (Hardcover) 20.00 The Large Euchologian (in Arabic) 20.00 The Small Euchologian with the Service of Holy Unction 15.00 Altar Gospel (Arabic) 100.00 The Little Compline & Akathist Hymn (Arabic) 3.00 Services of Holy Week & Pascha (Arabic) 20.00 Gospels and in Arabic 15.00 Old & New Testament in Arabic 15.00 The Service in Arabic 5.00 MUSIC BOOKS: BYZANTINE PROJECT (BASIL KAZAN) Byzantine Project No. 1: 19.00 Byzantine Project No. 2: 20.00 Byzantine Project No. 3: Holy Week (2 Vol.) 40.00 Byzantine Project No. 4: Pentecostarion (3 Vol.) 60.00 Byzantine Project No. 5: Triodion (2 Vol.) 40.00 Byzantine Project No. 6: Hymns of the Menaion 100.00 Vespers (Abboud) 2.00 Holy Matrimony (Abboud) 2.00 DIVINE LITURGIES The Divine Liturgy for Clergy & Laity 7.00 Tschaikovsky Divine Liturgy (Meena) 4.00 Three Divine Liturgies (Hilko) 4.00 Divine Liturgy (Aboud) 2.00 SUB-TOTAL E

24 The Word JUNE 2001 ORDER FORM JUNE 2002 TITLE PRICE QUANTITY TOTAL COST FOR OFFICE USE OTHER MUSIC BOOKS Hymns of Praise: Troparia and Kontakia (Meena) 4.00 Hymns from the Festal Menaion, Karam-George 4.00 Orthodox Hymns in English 4.00 Great Friday Service of Lamentations (George) 4.00 The Resurrection Service (George) 4.00 Vespers (Abboud) 2.00 Holy Matrimony (Abboud) 2.00 BOOKS AND PAMPHLETS The Date of Easter, (Abboud) 1.00 Orthodox Lent, Holy Week & Easter (Hugh Wubrew) 10.95 Beyond the Walls: Churches of Jerusalem (Aviva Baram) 14.95 Jerusalem Easy Walks (Aviva Baram) 22.95 Duties of Church Members 1.00 The Priest’s Guide, Constitutions, etc. (revised) 5.00 ’s Guide (revised) 4.50 Beginning to Pray (Anthony Bloom) 7.95 The Art of Prayer (Arabic) (Adnan Trabulsi) 15.00 On Prayer (Archimandrite Sophrony) 10.95 If We Confess Our Sins (Fr. Thomas Hopko) 3.00 — Met. Anthony Khrapovitsky 7.95 Partakers of Divine Nature (Arch. C. Stavropoulas) 8.95 Let Us Commit Ourselves (Anthony Coniaris) 8.95 Liturgy and Life (Fr. A. Schmemann) 6.00 Understanding Orthodox Liturgy (Najim) 12.50 Of Water and the Spirit (Schmemann) 10.95 Harvest of Antioch (lives of the Antiochian Saints) 2.00 On the Priesthood — St. John Chrysostom 9.95 On Marriage and Family Life — St. John Chrysostom 9.95 On Wealth and Poverty — St. John Chrysostom 9.95 On the Divine Images — St. John of Damascus 9.95 The Apostolic Fathers (Fr. J. Sparks) 12.95 Poets & Hymnographers of the Church 6.00 We Praise God (Constance Tarasar) 2.00 Out of the Depths (Saliba/Allen) 9.95 Mystery of the Incarnation (Cardinal B. Hume) 13.95 Mystery of the Cross (Cardinal B. Hume) 12.95 Mystery of Fidelity (Allen) 6.95 Orthodox Synthesis (Allen) 10.95 The Church & Social Reform (Boojamra) 20.00

PLEASE DO NOT TEAR OFF THIS PAGE A Light from the East (Fr. Michael O’Carroll) 12.95 The Faith We Hold (Archbishop PAUL, Finland) 8.95 Feed My Sheep (Metropolitan PHILIP Saliba) 8.95 Inner Way (Fr. J. Allen) 10.99 The New Oxford Annotated Bible with the Apocrypha 39.99 Metropolitan PHILIP, His Life and His Dreams (Paperback) 5.00 Metropolitan PHILIP, His Life and His Dreams (Hardcover) 10.00 A New Era Begins: Proceedings of the 1994 Conference of Orthodox Bishops in Ligonier, PA 7.95 The First 100 Years — A Centennial Anthology 20.00 Emigration from Syria & Lebanon (N. Saliba) 10.00 The Ministry of the Church (Fr. J. Allen) 11.95 Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre (Hawaweeny) 6.95 Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre (Arabic) 6.95 The Parables (Archbishop Dimitri) 9.95 Twenty Parables of Our Lord 2.00 The Miracles of Christ (Archbishop Dimitri) 9.95 Our Father Among the Saints, Raphael of Brooklyn (Paperback) 12.00 Our Father Among the Saints, Raphael of Brooklyn (Hardcover) 18.00 Jesus, Politics and the Church (Tony Nassif) 13.00 PERIODICALS & AUDIO VISUAL The Word Magazine (USA & Canada) (Annually) 20.00 The Word Magazine (Foreign) (Annually) 25.00 The Word Magazine (Individual Copies) 3.00 SUB-TOTAL F

June 2001 25 JUNE 2001 ORDER FORM JUNE 2002 TITLE PRICE QUANTITY TOTAL COST FOR OFFICE USE PERIODICALS & AUDIO VISUAL MATERIALS Joy of the Soul (by Metropolitan PHILIP), Album 6.00 Joy of the Soul (by Metropolitan PHILIP), Cass. 7.00 Bless the Lord O My Soul (Eng., 2 cassettes) (Fr. Elias Bitar) 16.00 God is With Us (Eng.) (Cassette) (Fr. Elias Bitar) 9.00 Orthodox Byzantine Hymns in Arabic (Cassette) (Fr. Elias Bitar) 9.00 Christ is Born: Music for the Nativity of Christ (Cassette) 12.00 Antiochian Village CD 15.00 Antiochian Village Cassette 15.00 Seven Deadly Sins: The Human Person’s Struggle with Sin (Dr. J. Dalack, 8 Cassettes) 37.00 The Human Person in Orthodox Spirituality (Bp. , 12 Cassettes) 53.00 CD of the Complete Service of St. Raphael 15.00 It is Truly Meet: Byzantine Chant in Arabic and English (St. George of Portland, OR ) 15.00 Chants from Balamand (CD) 16.95 Divine Liturgy in Arabic (CD) (Fr. Elias Bitar) 15.00 Divine Liturgy in Arabic (Cass.) (Fr. Elias Bitar) 9.00 Intentional Parenting (Dr. J. Dalack, Cassettes) 24.95 Aids, An Orthodox Perspective (Video) 19.95 Divine Liturgy Video (Holy Trinity Cathedral, NY) 29.95 Centennial Video 30.00 The Great Bible Discovery: Discovering the Baby King (Video) 12.99 The Savior is Born (Video) 12.99 Contemplating Icons (Video) 19.99 Holy Matrimony (Video) 29.95 Baptism & Chrismation (Video) 29.95 Holy Wednesday & Holy Thursday (Video) 29.95 Great Friday & Resurrection Service (Video) 29.95 ***Both Holy Week Videos 50.00

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26 The Word “Real Break” in Guatemala

BY NOAH P. PAPAS

Gloria al Padre y al Hijo y al Espiritu Sancto.

“Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” —Matthew 19:14

RECENTLY PARTICI- nation were squatting on I pated in a “Real this land. It was mind-bog- Break” trip to the gling. In the city crime is Hogar Raphael Ayau on the rise. The police are Orphanage in Guatemala corrupt and do little to City during my spring enforce any laws. The break from college. The orphanage is in Zone 1 of entire week was absolutely Guatemala City, the worst amazing! It was awesome part of town. The orphan- in the true sense of the age complex is walled, and word! has armed guards around For me, the trip was an the perimeter. In 1989 eye opener. It made me sixty-three children were realize for maybe the first killed violently in Zone 1 time the opportunities that alone. That same year, I have been given as an 3,196 people were mur- American. Things I used to dered throughout take for granted now do Guatemala. In Central not seem like necessities. I America another major think that this experience issue are the orphans. If a has put my life in a new child is abandoned in any perspective. I have a way, usually neglect or greater understanding of death of relatives, they are the world and a fuller sense left to fend for themselves of Christ’s love for all of His in the streets. The streets children. are such a dangerous place Guatemala, as most of that it may even be the Central America, has many corrupt police that are political hardships. Until committing many of the about 1996 Guatemala was murders of children. in a state of civil war. A This is the world most of Noah Papas helps Sophie, age 3, in the dining hall at Hogar peace was instituted in Rafael Ayau. the 140 children of the 1996; however, fighting Hogar come from. The recently resumed last summer. The the orphanage one day and we saw orphanage is an amazing contrast to conflict involves a desire by some to some desolate places. One hillside that world. As our group leader Fr. eradicate the Mayan natives. Many was covered with thousands of card- Tim Ferguson describes it, the children in the orphanage are of this board houses; the nuns described orphanage “is like a touch of heaven Mayan heritage. Poverty is also a this as “invasion.” Basically, the on this world.” Five Orthodox nuns major issue. We traveled outside of poorest people in the already poor run it. They make the orphanage

June 2001 27 “ REAL BREAK” IN GUATEMALA self-sufficient. They have adoption grew to love them. Church, Greensburg, PA, partici- offices, a social worker, developmen- If you have any questions about pated in the Archdiocese’s “Real tal therapy for the children. They the trip don’t hesitate to ask. My Break” program, which provides make their own medicine, have an email is [email protected]. missionary opportunities to college infirmary, school, gymnasium and a students as an alternative to more church. Noah P. Papas, of St. Michael conventional spring break trips. More amazing than the orphanage are the children. The nuns told us many of the children come from a history of abuse and neglect. The Seminary Dinner children at the orphanage are like little angels. They treat each other with love and respect. Many volun- tarily attend church everyday. Older children participate with the chant- ing and Altar serving. They are truly angelic in nature. It is absolutely dumbfounding when I think about where these children started out. Christ is awesome, taking a terrible situation (outside the walls of the Hogar) and making it Heavenly. Our trip began on Sunday, March 4. We met up with the other 14 short-term missionaries in Houston. From Houston we flew to Guatemala as a group. We arrived in Guatemala City late at night, and we fell right to sleep. The next morning we awoke to the shouts and greetings of many of the 140 orphans. We spent some time meeting the children, then we attended our first 2 hours of church for that day (there would be 2 more that afternoon). Not only did we have the opportunity to give alms to the children, we were exposed to a full monastic prayer life with about 200 a day. We were not used to this one bit; however, later in the week we were aces at the prostrations and we looked forward to the services, even though they were in Spanish. Our job over the week was to administer simple group therapy to the smaller (toddler) children. Mostly this involved spending much one-on-one time with the children, something they rarely receive. It also included walking with them in a specific manner, singing to them when going to meals and up and down steps and also rolling them down a hill. We were also responsi- ble for feeding, bathing and chang- ing the toddlers. It was amazing to see the difference in the children from the first day to the day that we left. They grew to love us, and we

28 The Word A WORD FOR THE MONTH

THE TRUE MEANING OF FEASTS

BY VERY REV. STEPHEN ROGERS

ASCHA … PENTECOST … of Himself. For He, Himself, is the In of John, Christ P the Transfiguration … the Sabbath, the source of rest from the makes this proclamation to His Exaltation of the Cross … the cares and labors of life. He is the apostles: “I am the way, and the Nativity … Each year as the truth and the life” (John seasons change and the 14:6). Truth is not a body of months roll by, the faithful of knowledge. Truth is not the the Orthodox Church are accumulation of facts. Truth called to celebrate a procession is a Person. To know the truth of feast days which commemo- is to know Christ. rate important truths concern- Ultimately, everything we ing our Lord and our faith in do in the Church has as its Him. Some people see feasts as end knowing Christ. We are much-anticipated celebrations; not seeking information; we others see them as dreaded are seeking a relationship. In obligations. Whether we antici- celebrating the feasts of the pate the feasts with joy or Church, we come to know dread or indifference, there is a Him — His life, His love, His tendency to see them as sacrifice. In a mystery we events. We are celebrating an experience these things event which took place in the directly. If we allow the feasts past, an historical event which of the Church to become marks an important moment in mere events, we will lose the history of our faith. sight of their importance and Even if we look toward the purpose. feast with joy and anticipation, Again, in the Gospel of if we are simply looking for- John, Christ proclaims: “Ye ward to an event, we are miss- shall know the truth and the ing the point. For in celebrat- truth shall set you free” ing the feasts of the Church (8:32). It is not mere knowl- merely as historical events, edge that sets us free, it is a important as they may be, we person. As St. Maximos are losing sight of the deeper writes: “He is the Pascha, the truth and richer blessings God Liberator of those held in the intends the feasts to bestow. bitter servitude of sin.” Saint Maximos the Confessor (662 Pascha, the Liberator of those held As God in His love and mercy AD) understood the true reason for in the bitter servitude of sin; He is appoints days and seasons for us in days and seasons in the Church: the Pentecost, the beginning and His Church, let us not see them as “God ordained the honoring of the end of all.” mere events, but rather see them as Sabbath, the months and festivals, St. Maximos the Confessor pro- encounters — encounters with Him not because He wanted these days claims what we must never lose who sets us free. to be honored by men as days, for sight of. The celebration of feast Yes, we have reason to celebrate in that would be serving the creature days is not about events, it is about the Church. Because of His mercy, more than the Creator (Rom. 1:25), a Person. It is not the recognition of He has given us the means to know implying that days are naturally a truth, it is the honoring of the Him. What greater reason for joy! worthy of honor and therefore of Incarnate Truth. The feasts are not What greater reason for celebration! worship themselves. But through the merely a means to know about We feast not to remember Him, we ordinance to honor the days, He Christ; they are a means to know feast with Him. How can we not symbolically ordained the honoring Christ Himself. rush, then, to His house with joy.

June 2001 29 ANTIOCHIAN WOMEN

Angels do Unusual Things

BY GERALDINE FARRIS

FEW MONTHS sent me.” In Matthew A ago, I had a con- 25:31, Christ speaks of versation with a His second coming, say- respected clergyman ing He will be surround- who is also a personal ed in glory and all of His friend. It began with a angels with Him. And discussion about how how was the huge stone some people who pos- at the tomb of Christ sess a deep faith in God, rolled away? Yes, by an whether young or old, angel. may have a premonition Each of us has a about their death, and guardian angel to pro- may receive messages of tect us from danger and solace and peace. At the give us hope and end of the dialogue, the strength. If we truly priest said, “Angels do believe in God and His unusual things.” love for us, our guardian Angels are real, not a angels will take our product of our imagina- hands and lead us to our tion. They were created Heavenly Father. Have by God. Angels possess you heard stories or the ultimate capacity to possibly even experi- offer praise to God, and enced someone who was each of them, either silently or is a comforter and protector. very ill, who, just before dying, aloud, gives testimony to the splen- The Seraphim are constantly glowed with the appearance of total dor of God. They are special spiritu- praising the name of God in Heaven. peace, tranquility and hope? We al creatures endowed with immor- They are positioned above the hope that when our days on Earth tality, and endowed with knowledge throne of God, where they sing “the are over we will have His angels far superior to that of mortals. triumphal hymn, ‘Holy, Holy, Holy gather around us to lead us glorious- Angels are messengers from God. Lord of Sabboath …’ ” The ly to Heaven. If we truly believe in They take their authority directly Cherubim stand beside the throne God and know Him through faith, from God. of God. In Genesis we read that they we can have confidence that the There are several ranks of angels. guarded the tree of life in the angels of God will watch over us and The Archangels are above all other Garden of Eden. In the Divine assist us, because we belong to Him. angels. Archangels are associated Liturgy, at the time of the consecra- Angel of the Lord, my Holy with mysteries in the life of Jesus. tion of the Holy Gifts, we pray that Guardian, Who art given to me of One of the most familiar archangels is standing beside God are “thousands God to shield me, I earnestly pray Michael, who administers judgment. of Archangels, ten thousand angels, thee, enlighten me this day. And In the , it is the Cherubim and Seraphim, six- from all harm protect me. In good Michael who leads the armies that winged, many-eyed, soaring aloft …” things advise me, and on the path battle Satan. The Archangel Gabriel is Besides those mentioned above, of redemption, guide me. Amen. God’s messenger of mercy and there are many other accounts of promise. It is he who announced to the presence of angels in the Bible. Geraldine Farris is an active Mary the news that she would bear The Archangel Gabriel appeared to member of the Antiochian Women the Son of God. Raphael presides over an aging Zechariah and Elizabeth to and has held many offices for the miracles and healings. Some say it is announce the birth of their son Midwest Region and North Raphael who was present at Bethesda John. Gabriel proclaimed, “I stand American Board. and stirred the waters of healing. He in attendance upon God; He has

30 The Word communities in action

ST. GEORGE, MONTREAL

n April 1, 2001, the past married the pre- sent,O in an auspicious gov- ernment ceremony unveil- ing a plaque from the Historic Sites and Monu- ments Board of Canada, commemorating the na- tional historic significance of St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church of Montreal. Mr. Jean-Claude Marsan, of the Federal Government Historic Sites Members of Parliament (left to right): Honorable Yvon Charbonneau, Honorable Pierre Pettigrew rep- and Monuments Board of resenting the Prime Minister, Honorable Eleni Bakopanos, Honorable Marc Harb and Honorable Canada, greeted an over- Mark Assad. flowing crowd of parish- ioners, visitors, govern- faith.” The theme of his small wave of immigrants together and hired pre- ment and religious leaders, message was “humility.” came in the early 1900’s miere artist Emmanuel and Montreal media. Norman Marino, the and faced assimilation, Briffa to design the neo- The glorious choir, con- Church and Community long work hours, poverty classic, art deco interior ducted by Paul Jabara, Historian/Researcher, and disease. In the 1940’s, which would integrate the treated all to the singing of spoke about how just a they put their assets Syrian Orthodox commu- the Canadian National Anthem, and showcased other liturgical hymns, including the French ver- sion of the Lord’s Prayer by Rimsky-Korsikoff. Arch- priest Antony Gabriel, Pas- tor of St. George, said in his welcoming remarks that this day was a tribute and a thank you to our mothers, fathers, and grandfathers who “left their parents in the old country, never to see them again, to give sweat, blood and tears to build the church. The summit of the glory of this Parish is dedi- cated to the men of humil- Left to right: Joe Hanna, Lebanese Consul General Khalil El-Hab, Frank Malek, Father Antony ity that planted the seed of Gabriel, Egyptian Consul General Teyhoor Sirry, and Syrian Consul General Fares Attar.

June 2001 31 COMMUNITIES IN ACTION

nity into the Canadian landscape. Chairwoman of the Par- ish Council, Viola Rossy, spoke about her father, one of the founders, and of his friends, his dream, his mission. Next, 18-year-old Saba twins, Thomas and Kathe- rine, spoke from a youth standpoint about what the church has meant to them, and of the love and care that binds the generations one to another. The Mayor of Montreal, Pierre Bourque, followed with his congratulations. Next, the Honourable Member of Parliament and friend to all, Pierre Petti- grew, represented the Minister of Canadian her- itage to say a few words, Fr. Joseph Bragg and Nick Pandis. and along with Fr. Antony, Edmund Rossy (Church Church was built in 1939- acres, on the main four- luncheon for the Most Beautification Coordina- 1940 to serve Canada’s lane highway that runs Senior Members of the tor) and Adel Elian (Proto- oldest and largest Syro- through town. Nick Pandis Parish. Also, we honored col Coordinator) unveiled Lebanese Orthodox com- then went and purchased two altar servers for their the beautiful plaque. Larry munity. The building’s the property, paying over devotion and continuing Rossy, past president of design is a striking combi- $400,000.00 for it, and . the Parish Council, pre- nation of eastern and west- gave it to the church. This The Honorees were sented an Icon written by ern influences … including kind of extreme generosity Fred Aboud Sr., Evelyn William Bastoli to the fed- murals and icons by artist reflects the love, commit- Abdo, Eveline Abdo, Kamel eral government officials, Emmanuel Briffa … the ment and enthusiasm that Bajjaly, Leo Corey, Afif to be placed in the church is at the heart of its Nick has for the growth Essi, Nettie Gabriel, Canadian Museum of community and represents and future of our mission. Antoine Habayeb, Ann Civilization in Ottawa. an integral part of the fab- This is the same man who Kolson, John & Charlotte Afterwards, the Govern- ric of Canadian life.” gave $25,000.00 towards Peter, Leona Phillpey, Rose ment and the Parish host- the down payment of our Sopp. The Honorees for ed a lovely reception in the present building when it continuing dedication in Church Hall. Bourque and LAND DONATED was purchased two years the altar were Deifallah Pettigrew attributed the BY MEMBER ago. A little over six years Tadros and David Thier. realization of this project ago, about six families got Two hundred seven to the “relentless pursuit TO ST. NICHOLAS, together to begin a mission parishioners cheerfully of Father Antony.” They MYRTLE BEACH, SC here. On a recent Sunday attended the successful acknowledged it was a we had a record atten- event. They enjoyed the “moment” for the Antioch- ne day Nick Pandis, a dance of 73 at the Divine recognition accorded the ian Orthodox Church in member of our coun- Liturgy. Honorees by Toastmis- Canada, to be recognized cil,O asked the priest, Fr. tresses Laraine Mahshie by all levels of govern- Joseph Bragg, to go for a (past President of Antioch- ment. A marble slab will ride with him. He showed ST. ELIAS, ian Women NAB) and be placed in front of the the priest three pieces of SYRACUSE Kathy Fedrizzi ( with a garden sur- property and asked him granddaughter and grand- rounding the plaque, which he thought would be daughter of two of the which reads: “A symbol of best for a future site for a n January 14, 2001 founders of St. Elias historic and enduring cul- church building. Father the St. Elias Antioch- Church), who highlighted tural traditions, St. George Joseph picked a piece of ianO Women of Syracuse, the event with a slide pre- Antiochian Orthodox prime property, almost 5 NY sponsored an honorary sentation and many bibli-

32 The Word COMMUNITIES IN ACTION

us are familiar with the Jesus Prayer, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” Father Alex challenged us to use it, to set aside time and let the prayer trans- form our inner selves. He also introduced us to Lectio Divina, which is a meditative way of reading the Bible. A person desir- ing to let the Bible speak to them more deeply would read a section in a slow, reflective way. The purpose of this type of reading is not to read through a designated num- ber of pages but to let the section or verses speak to the inner soul. Many times only three or four verses are contemplated. This is OK. Father told us that cal quotes which appropri- couraged us to embrace lightly. Father emphasized many people combine ately signified either the the power of prayer. He our need for inner peace Lectio Divina with journal- accomplishments or char- reminded us that praying and wisdom. He gave us ing as a way to concen- acteristics of the Honorees women are the backbone two practical ways to trate the reflective reading. during their lifetime. of any successful under- attain this serenity and One of the most impor- It was indeed a wonder- taking, and he instructed strength: the Jesus Prayer tant side reflections of ful luncheon that brought us not to take this privilege and Lectio Divina. Most of Father’s presentation was the parishioners together to break bread and enjoy each other’s fellowship.

MARCH’S AOCWNA RETREAT

AT ST. PHILIP ORTHODOX CHURCH DAVIE, FLORIDA

n Saturday, March 3, 2001, St. Philip OrthodoxO Church in Davie, FL hosted its 5th Annual AOCWNA Retreat for the Orthodox women of South Florida. The day- long retreat was attended by 28 women of varying ages and ethnic traditions. It was a lovely Christ-cen- tered time filled with wor- ship, teaching and fellow- Very Rev. Alexis Kouri, Khouriye Anna, Sister Germana, Sister MaryEllen and Sister Consolata (from ship. St. David Catholic Church) along with many of the women from St. Philip and the surrounding Father Alex Kouri en- churches.

June 2001 33 COMMUNITIES IN ACTION that if a person cannot say important role they each and energy. Mrs. Abdalah when their prayer time or played in Christ’s ministry empathized with each of HERMAN ENGELHARDT Bible reading time is, then while serving Him in differ- us, and helped us realize VISITS TAMPA BAY it is not happening. We live ent ways. the wondrous ways we do in a fast paced society with Saturday’s session began God’s work in our every- many demands and re- with a simple “centering” day lives. As mothers, sec- exas philosophy pro- sponsibilities. As Christian exercise. While our eyes retaries, and teachers, we fessor and physician women we need to take were closed, Mrs. Abdalah are all doing God’s work, HermanT Engelhardt visited control of our time com- instructed us to take a but in different ways. Two the Tampa Bay area on mitments. We need to series of deep breaths as important points were November 30, 2000 to pro- place our most important she prompted us to highlighted again and vide a lecture at Eckerd priorities first. And that “Breathe in joy, breathe again: we serve God in College on “Orthodox would be prayer, for the out confusion … breathe many different roles, Christianity: Religious power of it can move in peace, breath out anxi- which complement one Belief in a Post-Modern mountains. We need to ety …” Sounds easy, another; we must make World.” At Eckerd College recommit to our personal doesn’t it? That’s because God a part of our daily and later at St. Nicholas prayer life and growth in it is! This simple exercise lives. Church, Engelhardt of- our walk with Jesus Christ. took less than two min- In addition to interesting fered his audience an We need to be dedicated to utes, but allowed us to put talks, the Retreat gave us opportunity to learn about maturing in the Faith. aside “earthly cares” and an opportunity to get in the Orthodox Church. Dr. Maturity in the Faith be open to God working touch with our “creative Engelhardt, a former brings inner peace and within us. Try it when you self.” We made collages by Roman Catholic, convert- wisdom, and Father of- are feeling stressed or cutting pictures out of ed to Orthodoxy in 1991, fered two ways that help overwhelmed. magazines to describe our- seeking Christianity as it lead in that direction. Lord Mrs. Abdalah read pas- selves, and ways that we was practiced in the first Jesus give us the resolve to sages from various books, have God in our lives. The centuries. His wife and his do this. including Meditations for fun part was sharing them daughters also converted. the Busy Orthodox with the group, which An authority on bioethics, Women, by Collette allowed us to get to know Dr. Engelhardt is a profes- EASTERN REGION Jonopoulous. Our discus- one another. sor in the department of ANTIOCHIAN sion focused primarily on The Delegates Meeting medicine at Baylor College the announcement of the was held on Saturday of Medicine and in the WOMEN’ S SPRING birth of Christ, which was afternoon, led by ER department of philosophy RETREAT announced to Mary by the President Olena Basarab. at Rice University in Archangel Gabriel (Luke We heard various reports, Houston, Texas. He is also uring the weekend of 1:24-38). Mrs. Abdalah discussed new and old a member of the Center March 23-25th, reminded us that “Mary business, and had time to for Medical Ethics and approximatelyD sixty could have said ‘no’ to exchange fund-raising Health Policy at Baylor women gathered at the God, but she did not … ideas. College. In his most recent Antiochian Village for the Mary said, ‘Yes’ and her Vespers and an evening book, The Foundations of Antiochian Women’s East- response shows complete session with Mrs. Abdalah Christian Bioethics, Dr. ern Region Spring Dele- obedience to God.” concluded Saturday’s agen- Engelhardt shows how our gates Meeting and Retreat. Similar to Mary, we also da. The Retreat ended culture has changed its It was in the midst of our need to open our hearts after Divine Liturgy and understanding of religion, Lenten journey when we and accept God’s will. As brunch on Sunday. Over- coming to regard religion became enlightened by the the Antiochian Women’s all, the weekend was uplift- more in moral rather than words and wisdom of our Prayer states: The most ing and spiritually success- in spiritual terms. He also Retreat leader, Khouriye important thing is to have ful for all of the partici- explores how our culture Joanne Abdalah. The our hearts directed and pants. If you were not able came to have its current theme of our gathering was attuned to Thee. to attend this year, make moral acceptance of much the Feast of Annunciation. This obligation can be plans to participate next that Christians know to be Utilizing meditation exer- extremely difficult, how- year. You will find the incompatible with a life of cises, scripture readings, ever, especially when we Retreat to be a rewarding holiness, such as abortion and open discussions, Mrs. are faced with many other experience. and physician-assisted sui- Abdalah led us through a demands in our life. For cide. In the process, he spiritual and inspiring example, working full shows why our culture weekend as one in Christ. time, raising children, car- began to regard religion as Friday evening’s infor- ing for aging parents, and being tied to a well- mal gathering focused on doing housework are tasks ordered society, not union Mary and Martha, and the that require a lot of time with God. Dr. Engelhardt’s

34 The Word COMMUNITIES IN ACTION lectures and books serve with many great spiritual in 1977. Our parishioners the children will meet with as an invitation to see reli- leaders, especially Metro- have been leaders in all Bishop Antoun for a break- gion as a journey to spiri- politan Antony Bashir, who levels of the Archdiocese, fast and program. During tuality, to holiness, and to was a frequent visitor to most notably in the the afternoon guests may union with God. Niagara Falls. Each of our Antiochian Women, visit our beautiful city and Dr. Engelhardt stresses pastors including Rev. SOYO/Fellowship, and rest for Evening Vespers that the Orthodox under- George Mitchell, V. Rev. Teen SOYO. followed by our Gala standing of salvation is Michael Gelsinger, Rev. During our “Welcome Welcome Home Banquet. therapeutic. It is a matter Anthony Gruber Woolf, Home Celebration” we will On Sunday Bishop Antoun of healing the soul instead Rev. Gabriel Salhany, V. be blessed by the presence will celebrate a Hier- of focusing on the Western Rev. George Aswad, V. Rev. of Bishop Antoun, who will archical Divine Liturgy juridical emphasis on guilt Stephen Upson, Rev. preside over several with both Fr. Paul and Fr. and punishment. There is Jayson Post, and Rev. Paul momentous occasions, George. Immediately fol- an emphasis on spirituali- Solberg, left a unique lega- including the lowing Liturgy will be one ty, mysticism, and personal cy behind. of our altar with the relics of our traditional and transformation. Those who Niagara Falls has also of St. Raphael. Our Pastor famous Family Picnics hear Dr. Engelhardt speak been a leader in the Emeritus Fr. George and complete with amuse- and read his most recent Archdiocese and commu- Khouriye Grace Aswad will ments for all ages. book will understand the nity. We became the first be honored for their ser- In order to make this deep spiritual force of parish to use English in all vice of over 35 years to St. “Welcome Home Celebra- Orthodox Christianity. of our services and musical George, with the dedica- tion” complete we would People who are hungry for arrangements. Our Sun- tion of our Educational like to encourage past St. a real encounter with God day School teachers have Wing in their names. In George parishioners and most certainly will have authored textbooks and we addition, Kevin Barberg our friends to join us for a this hunger satisfied. helped to organize a youth will be ordained to the weekend full of great food, and adult fellowship group Diaconate during Sunday’s fun, fellowship, worship, that would become the Hierarchical Divine and memories. ST. GEORGE, foundation of SOYO. “The Liturgy. Finally, we have For further information NIAGARA FALLS Orthodox American,” the several other surprises please contact Chairman predecessor to The WORD, planned that you won’t Thomas Slaiman or Fr. was also published first in want to miss! Paul Solberg at the parish he parish of St. Niagara Falls. St. George Our weekend will begin office: 1073 Saunders George, Niagara Falls was host to Patriarch Elias Friday evening with a tal- Settlement Road, MPO Box cordiallyT invites you to IV and Metropolitan Philip ent show featuring many 713, Niagara Falls, NY attend our 75th Anni- on the Patriarch’s historic familiar faces from our 14302, (716)297-2668, versary “Welcome Home visit to the United States parish. Saturday morning [email protected]. Celebration” August 31- September 2, 2001. We have prepared many fami- ly events so that old and new friends from near and far can share together in this special event. Our parish was estab- lished in 1920 with our original Church being built in 1926 on the corner of 13th and South in the heart of Niagara Falls. St. George thrived at this site until we finally outgrew the Church home our par- ents and grandparents had worked so diligently to build. On November 7, 1976 we moved into our new Church on Saunders Settlement Road with great flourish. We have been blessed St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, Niagara Falls, NY prepares for its 75h Anniversary.

June 2001 35 ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE

Continued from page 9 2003. Those present were His those of previous years and Eminence Metropolitan Philip, His approved by the committee. This is BUDGET MEETING HELD AT Grace Bishop Antoun, Archiman- the largest budget ever passed by HEADQUARTERS drite Michael Evans, Fr. Michael the finance committee and reflects Nasser, Fr. Michael Massouh, Dr. the growth and expansion of our he Department of Finance held George Farha, Mr. Robert Laham, God-protected Archdiocese. The T its annual meeting under the Mr. George Nassor, Mr. Peter Dacales budget will be submitted to the chairmanship of His Eminence and Mr. Sabry Mackoul, who is a Archdiocese Board of Trustees for Metropolitan Philip at the Arch- new member of the committee approval at its June meeting and diocese Headquarters in Englewood, recently appointed by Metropolitan then presented to the General New Jersey on Tuesday, April 24, Philip. The budget for fiscal year Assembly of the Archdiocese during 2001, to review and approve the 2003, which amounts to almost four the Archdiocese Convention in Los annual budget for the fiscal year million dollars, was compared to Angeles, CA for final approval.

25TH ANNIVERSARY

The parish of St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church of Troy, MI is planning a special weekend in honor of the Very Reverend Father Joseph Antypas’ 25th Anniversary in the Priesthood. September 29-October 1, 2001, His Eminence Metropolitan Philip will be pre- siding over this weekend along Metropolitan Philip, Dr. George Farha and Fr. Michael Massouh at budget meeting. with the Archdiocese Board Meeting. We are planning a memo- rable weekend. Please plan to join us. For further details, call the church office, 1-248-589-0480.

CORRECTION

Bishop Demetri will be unable to attend the Orthodox Institute for Church School and Youth Workers in October as mentioned in the Department of Christian Education pages in April’s issue. L-R: Fr. Michael Evans, Sabry Mackoul, George Nassor, Robert Laham, Metropolitan Philip, Fr. Michael Nasser and Peter Dacales examine the 2003 budget.

36 The Word THE PEOPLE SPEAK …

POSITION AVAILABLE IN CHURCH MINISTRY the people speak

Project Mexico of the Orthodox Church, which runs St. Innocent Orthodox Orphanage, is looking for candidates for the following position in its San Diego office: Dear Ms. Ashanin: creedal statement. My It was a pleasure to read point is that He gives us your “Meditation on Mary what we need and where DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS & and Martha” in the latest we are. These two sisters ANNUAL GIVING — Pay and benefits compara- edition of The WORD. had different needs. ble to equal position in other non-profit agencies Certainly the anecdote we My second point is that with additional eternal benefits! Duties include have is incomplete and I, agape love is not an emo- promoting ongoing and increased interest through too, have wondered about tion; it is behavior. Mary speaking engagements, representing Project three apparently single loved Jesus by anointing Mexico at conventions, boosting regular giving, adults living together. His feet with costly oil. There are two points I’d Martha loved Jesus by creating and maintaining updated public relations like to submit to you: one, preparing a meal for Him. materials, organizing fundraising events, sending although it does seem like Jesus loved the three of out press releases, and gaining commitments for Jesus gave a “put-down” to them by raising Lazarus. in-kind donations. Martha, she is the one to I was a little disappoint- This position requires a mature, responsible whom He said, ed with your final admoni- and professional person who is at ease with public “Did I not say to you tions, and I’d like to re- speaking and fundraising. Good writing skills are that if you would believe phrase them, in humility: essential. Some travel is involved. Basic comfort you would see the glory of While we must be in God?” It seems to me He prayer and study, we must level with computers necessary. Direct or related gave her a specific not neglect our Christian experience is required. promise, perhaps in re- works [which to me are This position would allow a person to utilize sponse to her affirmation, the actions of love]. his or her talents in an inter-Orthodox Christian “but even now I know that While we must nurture environment to help us build homes for poor fami- whatever You ask of God, our souls, we must also lies, involve our young people in works of mercy, God will give You.” It bake and sweep and sew and give a home to boys who otherwise would be seems to me she was sub- [which are also works of tly requesting a resurrec- love]. on the streets. tion of her brother which Thank you for this lovely Please send resumé to: Gregory Yova, Project Jesus, at that point, grant- meditation. Mexico, P.O. Box 120028, Chula Vista, CA ed. Although both sisters In Him, 91912-3128 or fax to: 619-426-4619, Attn: seemingly chided Jesus for Dorcas Gregory Yova. not “being there for them,” (Leta Brown) as you mentioned, only Brainerd, MN Martha softened it with her

The American Foundation for St. George Hospital is a non-profit, tax-exempt charitable organization dedi- cated to the support of St. George Hospital in Beirut, Lebanon. The hospital was established in 1878 and is owned by the Orthodox Church. In addition to serving the clinical needs of the community, the hospital is a teaching facility for the Balamand University School of Medicine. The Foundation is engaged in fundraising to help needy patients, upgrade hospital facilities, and support clinical research and education of physicians and health care professionals. For additional information and donations, please contact the Foundation’s office at: The American Foundation for St. George Hospital 1100 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 9th Floor Washington, DC 20036-4114 Tel: 202-463-6868 • Fax: 202-463-2975 Email: [email protected] Website: www.stgeorgefoundation.com

June 2001 37 THE ORTHODOX WORLD

THE ORTHODOX WORLD

ORIENTAL AND EASTERN ORTHODOX FORM COALITION

ORIENTAL/EASTERN ORTHODOX COALITION SPONSOR ‘DOXOLOGY’ PRAYER SERVICE: 1000 PERSONS ATTEND

early one thousand N people filled St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral near downtown Los Angeles on the evening of January 21, 2001. People of almost every jurisdiction within the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Christian Churches had come and St. Sophia Cathedral, Los Angeles. filled this magnificent church to mark the begin- Coalition in America” dox Christian Churches in begun. ning of the third millenni- sponsored this unique Southern California (East- The members of the um of Christianity. They event. The Coalition was ern Orthodox) held an Coalition recognized that were eagerly anticipating established, in part, emergency meeting at St. as Orthodox Christians this historic event, which because of the Kosovo Steven Serbian Cathedral and American citizens we would bring together for Crisis. The war in Kosovo in Alhambra. At that meet- needed to coordinate in the first time in Los and the tragic bombing of ing and before a prayer forming a united Orthodox Angeles Orthodox hier- Yugoslavia had prompted service that was to be held voice. With that united archs, clergy, choirs, and all the Eastern and Orien- on behalf of the suffering voice we would have a faithful from both families tal Orthodox Hierarchs in Orthodox faithful in greater impact on both the of the ancient and apos- Southern California to join Yugoslavia, the Council media and the govern- tolic Orthodox Churches. in signing the historic voted unanimously to ments of this country, who The evening was a long Orthodox Statement on investigate overtures made often formulate public one, and it had been diffi- Kosovo, which condemned by some Coptic Orthodox. opinion, as well as public cult to achieve, but the all violence in that region They were interested in and foreign policy, out of fruit of this event was evi- and called for peaceful forming a coalition of ignorance, indifference or dent to all present. We had solutions. Partly inspired Orthodox Christians that even hostility toward heard words of encourage- by this bold, united action would represent all the Orthodox Christians here ment from all the hierar- of the bishops and partly Oriental and Eastern and abroad. chs present and even those responding to increased Orthodox Churches in After seeking the bless- absent. Moreover, we made persecution of Orthodox Southern California. Tak- ing of all the Oriental and new connections and Christians in their ancient ing the initiative from that Eastern Orthodox hier- friends from the many homelands, both laity and Council, a meeting was archs in Southern Cali- diverse Orthodox clergy across various juris- held on June 14, 1999 at fornia to begin their work, Churches present, and dictions reached out to the Holy Virgin Mary Cop- the Coalition hammered helped to increase cooper- each other to form the tic Orthodox Cathedral in out a mission statement ation among them. Coalition. On April 29, Los Angeles, at which and defined the structure “The Orthodox Christian 1999 the Council of Ortho- point the Coalition was of the OCCA. The goals of

38 The Word THE ORTHODOX WORLD the Coalition are to pro- Shortly after 7:30 p.m., the function, but had to leave bility to support our broth- mote better communica- congregation arose in the LA area unexpectedly. ers and sisters by speaking tion and cooperation expectation of the arrival Thus, Metropolitan out and making well among the different Ortho- of the clergy into the Eugene, of the Syriac known any issues or dox Churches, their bish- Cathedral narthex. The Church, Archdiocese of events that impact our fel- ops, clergy, and laity, espe- procession of deacons and the Western United States low Orthodox here and cially concerning events priests (over forty in total) Patriarchal Vicariate, and abroad. and issues that impact any as well as the three bish- Bishop Serapion of the In conclusion, Fr. John of the Orthodox in the ops then proceeded into Coptic Orthodox Church, Reimann invited the con- United States or overseas. the nave, at which point Diocese of Los Angeles, gregation to make its way Also equally important are the choirs sang out joyfully Southern California and into the Fellowship Hall, the goals of seeking to first in Greek then in Hawaii sent written greet- where the enthusiasm gen- inform the American English: “Many Years ings of support and erated from the solemn media, local politicians, Master”. This was followed encouragement. service and the challenging and the public at large of by the Coptic hymn, The main address was words was as great as the the Orthodox perspective “Blessed Be the Name of provided by Bishop numbers packing the hall. concerning these events the Father, Son, And Holy Joseph, who spoke of the Many remained to greet and issues. Spirit” and concluded with many spiritual and reli- one another, to make new It was out of the first of the Armenian Hymn “With gious conflicts that friends, and to continue in these goals that the Coali- the Glory of God” as the Orthodox Christians must fervent discussion, as well tion chose the idea for Bishops approached the confront on a daily basis, as to establish future net- their initial event. The solea. such as materialism, secu- works on the themes that start of the new millenni- Bishop Joseph of the larism, immorality, hereti- had been presented earlier. um served as the perfect Antiochian Orthodox cal religions, and life styles It was a historic and mem- opportunity for each juris- Archdiocese, Western promoted by the current orable evening and a good diction to come together, Region, officiated at the American culture and start not only to the begin- pray for one another in the Great Doxology, and was media. He acknowledged ning of the third millenni- Great Doxology service, assisted by Fr. John Bakas, that Orthodox Christians um of Orthodox Christian- and then meet and net- as well as by Fr. John throughout the centuries ity, but also, God willing, work together at the fel- Reimann, Deacon Thomas have suffered attacks and for the future of the Coali- lowship time afterward. O’Dea and Deacon George persecutions. Bishop tion and its work. Metropolitan Anthony of Taweel from Bishop Joseph went on to say that the Greek Orthodox Joseph’s Cathedral of St. violence is continuing ORTHODOX Church, San Francisco Nicholas in Los Angeles. even now. He stated that INSTITUTE Diocese, had graciously Also attending were Bishop we need to pray for our fel- SPONSORS agreed to host and officiate Jovan of the Serbian low Orthodox Christians SUMMER PROGRAM; at this event at his Cathe- Orthodox Church, West- and let them know in EVANGELISM AND dral, but later was unfortu- ern United States, assisted whatever way that they are THE ORTHODOX nately unable to attend the by his Deacon Djurica not alone. He challenged PARISH function. But his support Gordic, and Bishop both families of Churches and welcome was made Moushegh of the Armenian to work together, coordi- he Patriarch Athen- clear by Fr. John Bakas, Apostolic Church, Western nating their efforts not T agoras Orthodox Insti- the Dean of the Cathedral, Prelacy. only to defend our tute (PAOI) in conjunction who spoke on behalf of the After the Doxology Orthodox faith and prac- with the Graduate Theo- Metropolitan to all those service was concluded, all tice, but even to promote logical Union Cooperative present. Fr. Paul Paris, of the Hierarchs spoke to it in this new millennium Summer Session an- Assistant Priest of the the assembled clergy and to America. nounces a summer pro- Cathedral, had worked faithful at the invitation of Finally, Fr. John gram, Evangelism and the tirelessly with the Cathe- Bishop Joseph. Bishop Reimann, as President of Orthodox Parish, the week dral staff and various Jovan and Bishop the Coalition, spoke to of July 16-20-, 2001, in Coalition members in Moushegh spoke briefly to those assembled and con- Berkeley, CA. Featured preparing for this event. the congregation of their tinued on this theme. He instructors will be Fathers Well in advance of the support for the gathering listed for us the areas Peter Gillquist and Con- beginning of the service, and cooperation between across the globe where stantine Sitaras. the Cathedral congregation the Churches in face of Orthodox Christians are The program was de- was treated to hearing increasing opposition from being persecuted. He re- signed as a way for Ortho- some of the majestic the world. In addition, two minded those present that dox Christian clergy and hymns from the various other Oriental Orthodox they and the “Orthodox lay leaders to interact, jurisdictions as sung by Hierarchs had previously Christian Coalition in share ideas and explore the choirs assembled. planned to attend the America” have a responsi- practical ways of enhanc-

June 2001 39 THE ORTHODOX WORLD ing the evangelical dimen- sion of their parish min- istries. In addition to daily EASTERN REGION PARISH LIFE seminars by Fathers Gill- CONFERENCE quist and Sitaras, the schedule will include HOSTED BY ST. JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, YORK, PA (717) 751-4709 morning and evening JULY 4TH-JULY 8TH, 2001 services in the Institute’s Chapel of St. Demetrios, some community meals, and evening presentations by professionals from the Bay area with expertise in See You This Summer!! parish ministry. Participants can earn academic credit for $265.00 (2 continuing 50th Anniversary education units) or Celebration! $365.00 (1.5 semester hours of graduate credit). Housing is available on a Presiding Hierarch, limited basis for $320.00 to $380.00. Bishop Basil Fr. Peter Gillquist, Chairman of the Department of Missions and Evangelism for the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of America, is BIBLE BOWL publisher of AGAIN maga- THURSDAY, JULY 5TH zine and served as Project Director of the Orthodox ORATORICALS Study Bible. Fr. FRIDAY, JULY 6TH Constantine Sitaras, for- mer director of Ionian AWARDS ASSEMBLY Village summer camp and SATURDAY, JULY 7TH director of Stewardship EARLY BIRD CHOIR Ministry for the Greek EVENTS Orthodox Archdiocese of CONFERENCE BOOK SATURDAY, JULY 7TH DISCOUNT AVAILABLE WITH MEDITERRANEAN America, is currently the EARLY REGISTRATION HIERARCHICAL NIGHT UNDER THE Director of St. Basil HERSHEY PARK DIVINE LITURGY STARS Academy, in Garrison, NY. EXCURSION — JULY 4TH UNDAY ULY TH FRIDAY, JULY 6TH For further information PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED S , J 8 regarding registration, SPECIAL SOCS GRAND HAFLI please contact PAOI at EXCURSION SATURDAY, JULY 7TH 510-649-2450 or e-mail at FRIDAY, JULY 6TH Check out our Website: ADDITIONAL TEEN EVENTS summer session@ortho- OVERFLOW HOTELS (www.antiochian.org/ doxinstitute.org. WINGATE INN conventionconferenceplanning) TEEN POOL PARTY MECHANICSBURG, PA THURSDAY, JULY 5TH (717) 766-2710 Registration Forms, Schedules HAMPTON INN Hotel Directions CLUB NIGHT HARRISBURG WEST, PA FRIDAY, JULY 6TH (717) 691-1300 Early Registration Discount Available Deadline June 10

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS TODAY RADISSON PENN HARRIS HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER CAMP HILL PA, (717) 763-7117 (REFERENCE: FAMILY LIFE CONFERENCE - ST. JOHN’S)

40 The Word ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION

JULY 23-29, 2001 CENTURY PLAZA HOTEL CENTURY CITY, CALIFORNIA CHILDREN AND YOUTH SCHEDULE

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY JULY 23 JULY 24 JULY 25 JULY 26 JULY 27 JULY 28 CHILDREN 9:00-5:00 9:00-5:00 9:00-5:00 9:00-5:00 9:00-5:00 9:00-5:00 DAY CARE DAY CARE DAY CARE DAY CARE DAY CARE DAY CARE ARTS & CRAFTS ARTS & CRAFTS ARTS & CRAFTS ARTS & CRAFTS ARTS & CRAFTS ARTS & CRAFTS

9:00-10:00 9:00-10:00 7:30-4:00 9:00-10:00 9:00-10:00 9:00-10:00 LITURGY LITURGY BUSES LEAVE LITURGY LITURGY LITURGY FOR CAMP 10:00-5:00 10:00-5:00 ST. NICHOLAS 10:00-5:00 10:00-5:00 10:00-5:00 YOUTH ROOM YOUTH ROOM LITURGY YOUTH ROOM YOUTH ROOM YOUTH ROOM BREAKFAST* 10:00-11:00 10:00-11:00 CAMP ACTIVITIES 10:00-11:00 10:00-11:00 10:00-11:00 ICE BREAKER ICE BREAKER LUNCH* BREAKFAST* BREAKFAST* ORATORICAL DAILY MESSAGE DAILY MESSAGE DAILY MESSAGE DAILY MESSAGE 10:00-5:00 11:00-4:00 11:00-4:00 YOUTH ROOM 11:00-4:00 11:00-4:00 11:00-4:00 POSSIBLE POSSIBLE LA BREA TAR BEACH NO EVENT OFF SITE OFF SITE PITS & MUSEUM LUNCH* SCHEDULED EVENT EVENT LUNCH* OPEN

YOUTH and TEENS 11:00-12:30 11:00-12:30 11:00-12:30 11:00-12:30 11:00-12:30 ICONOGRAPHY ICONOGRAPHY ICONOGRAPHY ICONOGRAPHY ARTS & CRAFTS ARTS & CRAFTS DURBUKEE ARTS & CRAFTS ARTS & CRAFTS 4:45 ARTS & CRAFTS CHOIR BUSES LEAVE 2:30-4:00 2:30-4:00 DUBKEE FOR DURBUKEE POOLSIDE CHAT ST. NICHOLAS ARTS & CRAFTS CHOIR 2:30-4:00 2:30-4:00 2:30-4:00 CATHEDRAL DUBKEE CHANTING SWIM, OLYMPICS ICONOGRAPHY ARTS & CRAFTS DISCUSSION ARTS & CRAFTS 5:30-9:30 5:30-6:30 5:30-6:30 ST. NICHOLAS VESPERS VESPERS 5:30-6:30 5:30-6:30 5:30-6:30 VESPERS & VESPERS VESPERS VESPERS DINNER* 7:00-11:00 8:00-9:30 OPEN EVENING BIBLE BOWL 8:00-10:30 MUSICAL NIGHT 8:30-10:00 7:30-11:30 9:30-11:00 AMERICAN YOUTH DINNER* FILM NIGHT 10:45-11:30 DANCE MAGIC SHOW PANEL DISCUSS. DJ/DANCE CONFESSION

11:30 11:30 11:30 11:30 11:30 COMPLINE COMPLINE COMPLINE COMPLINE COMPLINE SERVICE/DISCUSSION SERVICE/DISCUSSION SERVICE/DISCUSSION SERVICE/DISCUSSION SERVICE/DISCUSSION

As of 1/17/2001 * — Included in ticket book GENERAL SCHEDULE

MONDAY, JULY 23, 2001

1:00 PM-7:00 PM Registration

10:00 AM-5:00 PM Statistics and Credentials

10:30 AM-4:30 PM Governing Council of St. Ignatius

4:45 PM Buses leave Hotel for Vesper & Hospitality Dinner

5:30 PM-9:00 PM Vespers & Dinner at St. Nicholas Cathedral

TUES, JULY 24 – SAT, JULY 28, 2001

Day/Evening Exhibits/Vendors

10:00 AM-4:00 PM Nursery/Day Care (Ages 3-6)

Day/Evening/Night Teen and Young Adult Room Youth Program/Seminars (Ages 7-19)

8:00 AM-8:45 AM Bible Study 9:00 AM-10:00 AM Divine Liturgy — room

TUESDAY JULY 24,2001

10:00 AM-11:00 AM Choir Rehearsal

10:15 PM-11:15 PM Members of the Hollywood Christian Community of writers, directors, agents and producers Lecture and interactive discussion for young adults — all invited

June 2001 41 ARCHDIOCESE CONVENTION

10:15 AM-11:30 AM Clergy, wives & family Breakfast

11:30 AM-4:30 PM Antiochian Clergy Wives Assembly Antiochian Clergy General Assembly

10:30 AM-4:30 PM General Assembly — St. Ignatius General Assembly — FOSJD General Assembly — NAC Teen SOYO

12:30 PM-4:30 PM Getty Museum

4:00 PM-5:00 PM Sharing Your Christian Faith — Members of the Hollywood Christian Community of writers, directors, agents and producers Lecture and interactive discussion for young adults — all invited

5:30 PM-6:30 PM Vespers

6:30 PM-7:30 PM St. Ignatius Cocktail Reception 7:30 PM-10:30 PM St. Ignatius Reception and Dinner

WEDNESDAY, JULY 25, 2001

10:00 AM-11:00 AM Choir Rehearsal

10:30 AM-4:30 PM NAB Antiochian Women — General Assembly

10:30 AM-12:00 PM Combined Department and Ministries Meeting — Missions and Evangelism, St. Athanasius Academy of Orthodox Theology, Antiochian Orthodox Prison Ministry, Conciliar Press - Again Magazine

12:00 PM-2:00 PM NAB Antiochian Women — Luncheon

3:00 PM-4:30 PM Western Region Committee on Marriage and Family Workshop

5:30 PM-6:30 PM Vespers

8:00 PM-9:30 PM Bible Bowl

9:45 PM-12:00 PM Hospitality LA

9:30 PM-11:00 PM Youth Movie Night and Youth Activity 00 PM. Thursday buses leave the hotel for the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum at 11:00 AM return 4:00 PM. 00 PM. Thursday buses leave the hotel for La Brea Tar M (after Liturgy) to around 4:30 PM (before Vespers) and every evening from 6:00 PM (after Vespers) to about and every evening from 6:00 PM (after Vespers) M (after Liturgy) to around 4:30 PM (before Vespers) aza Hotel, Beverly Hills-Rodeo Drive shopping, and the Third Street Promenade/Pier/Beach then back to hotel. :30 PM. Tuesday at 12:00 noon the buses will leave hotel for Getty Museum and return to 4:30 :30 PM. Tuesday THURSDAY, JULY 26, 2001

10:30 AM-1:00 PM General Assembly 2:00 PM-5:00 PM General Assembly

5:30 PM-6:30 PM Vespers 6:30 PM-7:30 PM Choir Rehearsal

9:00 PM-11:30 PM Comedy and Musical Talent

FRIDAY, JULY 27, 2001

10:30 AM-1:00 PM General Assembly 2:00 PM-5:00 PM General Assembly

6:30 PM-7:30 PM Choir Rehearsal

8:30 PM-1:00 AM Arabic Hafli American Dance

SATURDAY, JULY 28, 2001

10:30 AM-12:00 PM Oratorical Contest and Choir Festival

12:30 PM-3:00 PM Archdiocese Board Meeting and Luncheon, Jerusalem Task Force, International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), Orthodox Church Book Store Workshop

3:00 PM-5:00 PM Enliven to Christ

6:30 PM-7:30 PM Honored Guest Reception (by invitation) 6:30 PM-7:30 PM Reception

7:30 PM-12:00 PM Grand Banquet Arabic Music and Dance to follow banquet 7:30 PM-12:00 AM Youth Dinner and Dance

SUNDAY, JULY 29, 2001

9:00 AM-10:00 AM Matins and Confession

10:30 AM-12:30 PM Hierarchical Divine Liturgy This rotation will be about every 45 to 60 minutes depending upon the time of day and traffic. The buses run from 11:15 A 11:00 PM. Monday night the buses will leave hotel for St. Nicholas Cathedral at 4:45 PM and return to about 10 PM. morning buses leave for Camp St. Nicholas at 7:30 AM and return to the hotel 5: Schedule bus transportation: Wednesday Youth Friday buses leave for Santa Monica Beach at 11:00 AM and return 4:00 PM. Bus transportation will be provided as follows: Monday through Saturday: service includes a rotation between the Century Pl

42 The Word June 2001 43 THE WORD 358 Mountain Road Periodical postage paid at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Englewood, NJ 07631

Aug. 31-Sept. 3, 2001 Antiochian Village, Ligonier, PA 2001A program of the AOCA Department of Missions and Evangelism. Orthodox Conference on Sponsored by the Orthodox Missions and Evangelism Center. Inaugurating the Millennium of Orthodoxy in America he North American Orthodox Conference on A dynamic line-up of speakers: Missions and Evangelism is your chance to get T Fr. Dan Suciu … enthused for sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and a wonderful teacher from the Greek Orthodox Christian expanding His Kingdom. Experienced Orthodox Archdiocese who brings years of practical evangelism experi- evangelists will help you better understand your own ence to the Conference Orthodox Christian faith, and teach you how to share it Fr. David Tillman with others. You will return home spiritually renewed and Pastor of Holy Assumption Orthodox Church in Canton, Ohio ready to serve the Lord through your parish’s outreach Dr. Anne Bourjaily Thomas program, or in helping to plant a new mission. Full-time wife and mother, part-time attorney, and co-founder of two Orthodox Christian missions Some of the topics will be: Fr. Peter Gillquist ¥ How to prepare and give your personal testimony Director of the Department of Missions and Evangelism, and ¥ Tips for building your mission or parish author of several books on Orthodoxy and spirituality ¥ How to answer touch questions about your Faith ¥ American Orthodox missions in the third millennium Questions? Call toll-free (888) 968-4014 To register, mail the form below and a $40 non-refundable deposit (applies toward fee — make checks payable to “DME”) to: M&E Conference ¥ Department of Missions and Evangelism ¥ 777 Camino Pescadero ¥ Santa Barbara, CA 93117-4908

2001 Orthodox Conference on Missions and Evangelism Registration Please complete one form per person or couple. Register early* and save $50 off the regular tuition! Name______Please register me/us as follows (check one): Address ______ Double Room $330 ($280 early*) City ______State______Zip______Roommate? ______Phone ( _____ ) ______- ______(If you do not have a roommate arranged, we will assign one.) E-mail ______ Private Room (limited availability) $530 ($480 early*) Parish & Jurisdiction______ Commuter $180 Pastor______*Must be postmarked by July 31 to receive early rate. Your Age ______Gender ______If housing fills up at the Antiochian Village conference center, Registration includes 3 nights accommodations (except “com- would you consider staying at the Village Camp for a reduced muter”), meals, banquet, evening snacks, the missions manual rate? (circle one): YES NO Bringing America to Orthodoxy, and other materials. (If “YES”, we will contact you should the need arise.)