Official Publication of the Ukrainian Archeparchy of Philadelphia VOL. 78 - No. 09 MAY 14, 2017 ENGLISH VERSION UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC OF CANADA AND USA MEET IN GLEN COVE, NY

Photo: (Standing:) (Edmonton), Bishop (New Westminster), Bishop (Parma), Bishop , CSsR (Saskatoon); (Seated:) Bishop-emeritus Basil Losten (Stamford), Metropolitan- (Philadelphia), Bishop , O.S.B.M., (Stamford), & Bishop , (Philadelphia) (Missing from the photo) Metropolitan-Archbishop , OSBM, (Winnipeg), and Bishop , D.D., (Toronto).

(continued on next page) UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC BISHOPS OF CANADA AND USA MEET IN GLEN COVE, NY Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka The Ukrainian Catholic Bishops of Canada and USA held their annual meeting from May 2nd thru 4th, 2017 in the Library Building of the Ukrainian Catholic Basilian Fathers at St. Josaphat Monastery located in Glen Cove, NY. A very comfortable and prayerful environment was generously provided through the hospitality of Very Rev. Basilio Salkovski, OSBM, Provincial of the Basilian Fathers of St. Josaphat, OSBM.

Participants in the meeting were Most Rev. Stefan Soroka, Metropolitan for USA and Archbishop of Philadelphia, Most in Parma, Bishop John in 2020. The ongoing various social media Rev. Lawrence Huculak, Bura, implementation of the initiatives in . A OSBM, Metropolitan for for the Philadelphia Vibrant initiative committee was formed to Canada and Archbishop Archeparchy and Bishop in our eparchies was develop a core marriage of Winnipeg, Most Emeritus Basil Losten of discussed, as were the preparation program Rev. Paul Chomnycky, the Eparch of Stamford. preparations for the for implementation in OSBM, Bishop of the The Canadian hierarchs upcoming visit by the all of our eparchies via of Stamford, shared their experience of Patriarchal Catechetical social media. A North Bishop David Motiuk, their ‘ad limina’ visit made Commission to Canada American Liturgical Bishop of the Eparchy with the Catholic Bishops and USA. The provisions Commission was of Edmonton, Most of Western Canada to of the Particular Law formed to advise the Rev. Ken Nowakowski, the Holy Father. Topics of our Church were Bishops in the ongoing Bishop of the Eparchy to be considered at reviewed as were developments in Liturgy. of New Westminster, the upcoming Synod proposed statutes for Clergy formation and Most Rev. Bryan Bayda, of the Ukrainian the Winnipeg and the state of consecrated CSsR., Bishop of the were Philadelphia Metropolias. life in our eparchies were Eparchy of Saskatoon, discussed, as were the The Bishops discussed also reviewed among Most Rev. Bohdan consideration of themes the use of social media other topics of common Danylo, Bishop of the for an upcoming Sobor and explored ways to concern. Eparchy of St. Josaphat of our Church to be held combine our efforts in (continued on next page) MAY 14, 2017 2 UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC BISHOPS OF CANADA AND USA MEET IN GLEN COVE, NY

(continued from previous page)

A half day visit to the recently opened National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City and to St. George Ukrainian Catholic Church were included during the meeting days. The annual meeting of the Ukrainian Catholic Bishops of USA and Canada facilitates close fraternal sharing and the development of initiatives of common concern. There is much wisdom in journeying together as the Bishops endeavor to meet the ever changing needs in pastoral ministry in our Ukrainian Catholic Church. The Bishops visit the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City

MAY 14, 2017 3 THE ASCENSION

The Acts of the Apostles symbolic of the heavens. records the Ascension of This nimbus itself is Christ in a very simple supported by angels narrative. "He was lifted whose presence is yet up before their eyes in another indication of a cloud which took Him the glory and divinity from their sight." (1: 9) of Christ. It recalls the Our Church celebrates Old Testament image of this event of Christ's God enthroned upon the glorification. It celebrates Cherubim. all that Christ has done and accomplished for us. In the foreground of the Icon, the image of The Kontakion of the the Mother of God is Feast summarizes all of seen surrounded by Christ's work: two groups of Apostles. Of prime importance is When You fulfilled the her position — directly plan of for us below Christ. This entire is the ascending Savior. be found in the temple and united all things on grouping, the Mother of The gesture of Her constantly, speaking the earth to those in heaven, God and the Apostles, hands, uplifted in faith praises of God. (Lk. O Christ our God, You stands as an expression and prayer, expresses 24: 50-53) ascended in glory, never of the establishment the role of the Church, leaving us but remaining and role of the Church. ceaselessly interceding Our worship of the ever-present. For You The Icon includes not for the salvation of the Father is one with Christ. proclaimed to those who only those who actually world. The direction of Through the Church we love You: "I am with you witnessed the Ascension. movement of this whole are joined with Christ, and no one else has It also includes the group, their gestures, the our hope of glory. power over you." Apostle Paul, in the focus of their eyes and Icon at the head of the postures, everything is TROPARION — You The Icon of the Ascension group on the right, who directed upward: toward ascended in glory, O is an icon of joy. It historically could not the Source of Life of the Christ our God, and celebrates the meaning have been there. What Church, its head Who delighted the Disciples of this event for the is intended is that the abides in heaven. with the promise of the Church and the world. Church witnesses to this Holy Spirit; through The Ascension took place event. For: this blessing they were on the Mount of Olives. He led them out near assured that You are Thus, the mountainous The Mother of God, She Bethany, and with hands the Son of God, the background of the who had once carried upraised, blessed them. Redeemer of the World. panel, dotted with the Christ within Herself As He blessed, He left images of scattered olive and was therefore the them, and was taken trees. The figure of Christ temple of the Incarnate up to heaven. They GOD-WITH-US ICON ascending in glory is Son of God, stands here fell down to do Him SERIES surrounded by a circular as a personification of reverence, then returned nimbus composed of the Church, the body to Jerusalem filled with various bands of color, of Christ, whose head joy. There they were to MAY 14, 2017 4 Metropolitan Stefan Blesses New Elevator and Church Sign in Melrose Park, PA

On Sunday, April 23, 2017, Metropolitan- Archbishop Stefan Soroka was the Main Celebrant at a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at Annunciation of the Blessed Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park, PA, with blessing of the new church elevator and sign followed by parish Easter Sviachene. Rev. Ihor Bloshchynskyy is the pastor of the parish.

Photos: Ihor Kovaliv

Blessing the New Electronic Church Sign

Blessing the New Elevator Metropolitan Stefan offers the homily MAY 14, 2017 5 Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka offers the Homily at Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park, PA on Thomas Sunday

Христос Воскрес! for me, and in a special way to the parishioners of “Blessed are those who Annunciation of Blessed have not seen and have Virgin Mary Church in believed” (Jn 21:29) Melrose Park. The Risen Christ appears to people Jesus tells these words to whom he had foretold of the apostles Thomas who his suffering and death, was stubborn. Thomas and of his resurrection. would not believe the They all shared disbelief. testimony of his fellow They were reluctant to apostles and the women believe until they saw that they had seen the the Risen Christ amidst Risen Christ. He would them. They reveal a only believe if he himself characteristic of our placed his finger into the human nature. wounds in Jesus’ body. You and I can be Recall the two apostles stubborn to recognize walking away from truths. We can live being Jerusalem on the road reluctant to hear different to Emmaus. They were voices amidst us. We lost and confused about can be like Thomas who all that happened. A demands proof before man appears and begins risking ourselves in faith. to walk with them. He Amidst the parishioners explains to them the of this parish were those meaning of all that who questioned the happened. They come to necessity of an elevator. recognize the man as the Some calculated the Risen Christ when Jesus cost as compared to broke and shared the the few who might use bread with them. it. Many undoubtedly had some inaccurate The Risen Christ appears perceptions as who might amidst the apostles, and use the elevator. Was it the women. He appears necessary for the few who to the doubting Thomas. might need it? He appears to the apostles on the road to Emmaus The apostles did not and is recognized in the listen to the women at breaking of the bread. the time because they were voiceless. The Lord’s There is a very special message here for you and (continued on next page) Photos: Parish Facebook Page MAY 14, 2017 6 Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka offers the Homily at Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park, PA on Saint Thomas Sunday (continued from previous page) angel appeared first to reached out to those in the women to go and tell need of extra help and the apostles to gather in compassion. We can Galilee where Jesus Christ celebrate our beautiful would see them. They Divine Liturgy in splendor, gathered with disbelief. and petition God for Jesus compliments those our needs in prayer. who believe without However, do you think we seeing. will receive blessings when we do it while ignoring the When I was a parish plight of others amidst us priest, the parishioners in need? Does God listen built a new church and to people who do not included a lift. A few respond to the cry of the elderly parishioners used voiceless amidst us? They it on Sundays. The largest are God’s gift to you and use was by young people to me, God’s measuring in wheelchairs who came stick of who we are as his for weddings, , followers. and for services. No one expected this. They Words cannot adequately came because they knew express my admiration they could have dignified and appreciation for your access to the church. I commitment to provide for was also in another parish the elevator access in your and watched as a young church. You have earned boy with cerebral palsy Jesus Christ’s blessing crawled up the steps on that you have believed his stomach. He refused without seeing. You have to be carried up in his made a significant choice wheelchair. All of us cried to tend to the need of the with embarrassment. It voiceless amidst you. I also was a new church believe that Jesus Christ is where the parishioners amidst us today giving us did not want to spend the His peace as he appeared money for an elevator for amidst the apostles in a few people. Galilee and on the road to Emmaus. Women and handicapped and many others were The elevator will speak voiceless in the time when loudly as to WHO you Jesus walked the earth. are as followers of Jesus You and I will be judged on how we treated or (continued on next page) Photos: Parish Facebook Page MAY 14, 2017 7 Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka offers the Homily at Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park, PA on Saint Thomas Sunday (continued from previous page)

Christ. It says that you selecting the type of sign. your good deeds. You are a newly assigned care for those with You also accomplished and I may never know the pastor and the good special needs. It says that these vital projects by good which may occur. parishioners are just you value every person keeping the parishioners Believe without seeing. becoming accustomed to coming for prayer and informed and involved. Receive the Risen Christ’s new pastoral approaches. worship. It says that you Involving parishioners blessings for believing He loves you and wants invite all to seek salvation. in all aspects of parish without needing proofs. the best for you. He seeks programs allows for the salvation of your souls The installation of everyone to feel as a One final thought – as and the souls entrusted the informative sign valued member of the you celebrate these for us to seek and save. especially adds to your parish family. worthy accomplishments, Each priest offers his mission to evangelize. rejoice in the souls you particular talents which The information tells your You gather today to give have amidst you to help, God provides. God may neighbors who you are. thanks to almighty God for to become involved in give challenges through It tells something about His peace and presence. your parish family. There him which we need in our what is important to you You will celebrate being a ought to always be a spirit growth to come closer to in the types of events parish family sharing the of welcoming others to be our Lord Jesus Christ. Be which you advertise. traditional ‘Sviachene’. I involved. Learn to step flexible and humble as Most importantly, it invites sincerely believe that the aside if you see yourself you journey together in people to meet the Risen Risen Christ is amidst us as the one thinking your parish family. Don’t Christ here in this Church. today and always. He that everything revolves let judgment become You fulfill your mandate is amidst a people who around yourself to get a barrier to progress. to be the announcers love and offer care for things done. That’s what Thank you for your warm of the Lord Jesus to the others needing some makes the difference in welcome of Fr. Ihor, his world, just as the angel extra help. The elevator a family living with joy as wife Iryna, and their announced to Mary the will tell others who you opposed to drudgery. The daughter, Anastasia. child Jesus within her. It are. It will invite others Risen Christ is at center is your mission. It is your to participation. The Risen offering you and me His I am also grateful to the gift to the world around Christ is amidst people peace, a peace which former pastor, Fr. Ihor you. You dared not to who loudly proclaim their involves our engaging Royik, under whose term fulfill this challenge in the faith to the community and inviting others to the proposition for the best way possible with surrounding them. The come to salvation. The sign was initiated. We today’s technology. sign will boldy present Mother of God gives us are particularly grateful who you are to others. such a beautiful example to Mr. Peter Labiak for I congratulate you for the It will offer a welcoming of humility and surrender. his skillful and technical exceptional way in which spirit to people whose assistance in making the you chose to do this faith in God needs to My heartfelt gratitude sign and elevator projects with the type of sign you be rekindled. A simple to the pastor, Fr. Ihor a reality. selected. I congratulate spiritual message on the Bloshchynskyy, for his those who persisted in sign may stir the hearts steadfast leadership in Heartfelt gratitude is making it happen. I thank of people to search God achieving the completion offered to all those those who did not let the in whatever way. Trust in of these projects. It is who generously have doubters among us to that. God will work His especially challenging restrain the enthusiasm in many miracles through to do this when you (continued on next page) MAY 14, 2017 8 Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka offers the Homily at Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park, PA on Saint Thomas Sunday (continued from previous page) supported the projects, supporters of the parish. Jesus Christ. I pray for salvation of your souls expressing your faith your joyful fulfillment of and the souls of those in higher ideals as Thank you for your your mission to announce entrusted to your care. followers of Jesus warm Ukrainian joyful the Good News to the Christ. Parishioners of and traditional welcome. world in the footsteps of The peace of the Risen Annunciation of Blessed Please pray for me. I the Mother of God. I Christ be with you! Virgin Mary Ukrainian pray for your continued pray for your joyful and Catholic Church are very growth in love and service meaningful journey as a Христос Воскрес! generous and steadfast of Our Lord and Savior parish family in seeking

Panachyda Service at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Fox Chase, PA on Saint Thomas Sunday, April 23, 2017

Fr. Yaroslav Kurpel, Fr. Roman Pitula and Fr. Roman Sverdan at the Panachyda Service at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Fox Chase, PA, for fallen Ukrainian Soldiers and all deceased parishioners of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia. (Photo: Teresa Siwak)

Watch a video of the Panachyda on our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/thewayukrainian

MAY 14, 2017 9 Metropolitan Stefan attends Sviachene at Cathedral in Philadelphia on April 30, 2017 Photos: Walter Fedorin

Fr. Roman Pitula and Metropolitan Stefan Paschal Dinner – Sviachene was held at the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral Parish of the in Philadelphia on Sunday, April 30, 2017. Parishioners and guests enjoyed delicious Paschal foods and festive concert that day.

Many thanks to all, who contributed their time and talents preparing this beautiful event at our Cathedral Parish.

May the Good Lord bless and reward you all with His bountiful mercies!

MAY 14, 2017 10 Hillside, NJ Parish holds Easter Egg Hunt

Hillside, NJ --- On Sunday, April 30, 2017, the children of Immaculate Conception Ukrainian Catholic Church in Hillside (Union County), NJ continued to celebrate Resurrection by participating in the weekly religious education classes and an Easter Egg Hunt on the parish grounds after the 10:45 am Sunday Liturgy.

MAY 14, 2017 11 SVIACHENE – SCRANTON’S ST. VLADIMIR PARISH

Early Sunday afternoon, April 30, 2017 Scranton’s St. Vladimir parish conducted its annual Easter Dinner - Sviachene - in its parish center. The joyous event was held immediately following Divine Liturgy and was attended by a large number of parishioners as well as friends of the parish. Father Myron Myronyuk, pastor, opened the dinner by welcoming everyone, blessing the foods and leading all in singing the glorious Paschal anthem “Chrystos Voskres”.

The bountiful dinner began by sharing the blessed egg followed by borshch, holubchy, pyrohy, ham, kobasa, horseradish, and other foods. During the meal eight year old Antonina Myronyuk surprised everyone by singing the well known song entitled “Alleluia”. Needless to say, she received a warm and appreciative ovation.

The afternoon was capped off with the awarding of more than 30 prizes including theme baskets, pysanky, baskets of candies, potted flowers and dinner certificates to several local popular restaurants.

The event ended with Father Myron thanking all for coming together to express our joy over dinner in celebrating Our Lord’s Resurrection.

League of Ukrainian Catholics

LUC Newsletter, "ACTION" is available on the internet at: http://www.stnbuffalo.com/bulletin/Action1-2017-Spring.pdf

The LUC Facebook page is at: https://www.facebook.com/LUCofAmerica

MAY 14, 2017 12 Easter Dinner at Assumption Church in Perth Amboy, NJ

The annual Sviachene, a traditional Easter Dinner, was held on Sunday, April 30, 2017 following a 10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy. The dinner and a beautiful concert following the Liturgy in the school hall was attended by approximately three hundred parishioners and friends who enjoyed a play “Easter Basket” prepared by our youngest parishioners. The packed hall of parishioners also enjoyed the singing of the haivky (Ukrainian folk songs) by a parish youth group “Svitanok”. Every child was standing tall, singing loudly and smiling at the crowd. The number of people in attendance at the morning Divine Liturgy and the hundreds of Children perform a play about the parishioners at the reception were Easter Basket great witness to the vibrant and active parish of Assumption.

MAY 14, 2017 13 May Procession in Hillside, NJ

Hillside, NJ -- On Sunday, May 7, 2017, the children of Immaculate Conception Ukrainian Catholic parish in Hillside (Union County), NJ, honored the Blessed Mother by processing with flowers, singing Левадов Долинов (Levadov Dolynov) (Immaculate Mary) and crowning Mary the .

The children also concluded their religious education classes for the season and will begin the classes again on Sunday, September 10, 2017.

MOTHER’S DAY GREETING

On the occasion of Mother’s Day, the Staff of “The Way” wishes all our readers who are mothers good health, long life and the Lord’s choicest blessings. May the Holy Spirit guide all our mothers throughout their lifetime. May the Holy Mother of God guard and protect each and everyone from all evil.

To all the deceased mothers of our readership, we pray for the blessed repose of their souls, and that the Lord God forgive all their sins, both voluntary and involuntary, and grant them entry into the eternal Kingdom of God – Heaven.

MAY THEIR MEMORY BE ETERNAL!

MAY 14, 2017 14 West Easton Church Dome Gets Repainted for Centennial

Holy Ghost Church in West Easton, PA, is beginning its preparations for the centennial celebration of the parish in 2021.

Painting of the dome is being done by Gordon Bennett Company of Easton PA.

Watch a video where Fr. Daniel Troyan talks about the dome project... http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/easton/index.ssf/2017/05/west_easton_church_gives_dome.html

Beginning to paint the dome. After the dome is painted.

MAY 14, 2017 15 Confront the Deficit Gift Amount (February to May 10th, 2017)

$1 - 49 John S. Vasko Dr. Nadia Worobij Thank you Jordan A. & Quinby O. Finch to all who Andrew Virkitis have recently contributed to $100 - 199 Roman M. Peklak the Archeparchy Anna Smolij of Philadelphia’s Maria Taney “Confront Rev. D. George Worschak the Deficit” Roman S. Maslij - In memory of Mykola & Irmgard Maslij Emily Griswold Campaign! Anonymous

$200 - 499 Rev. Michael P Waak Reverend Robert Hitchens Reverend Wasyl M. Kharuk Michael & Carol Ann Nunno Nancy B. Claflin St. Michael the Archangel Ukrainian Catholic Church - Hillsborough, NJ Stanley Kunda Paul Yarrish Theodosia & Christina Hewko

$500 - 999 Anonymous Kenneth Hutchins Ss. Joachim & Anna Ukrainian Catholic Mission - Front Royal, VA Nativity of the BVM Ukrainian Catholic Church - New Brunswick, NJ Please help in whatever $1000 - 4999 way you can by Anonymous Most Reverend John Bura contributing via the Presentation of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church - Lansdale, PA “Go Fund Me” page St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Church - Bethlehem, PA https://www.gofundme. St. Anne Ukrainian Catholic Church - Warrington, PA com/confront-the- St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Church - Trenton, NJ deficit or by sending an St. Josaphat's Sisterhood - Trenton, NJ offering to the Ukrainian St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church - Passaic, NJ Catholic Archeparchy, St. Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church - Cherry Hill, NJ 827 N Franklin Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123. $5000 - 9999 Thank you for your Annunciation BWM Ukrainian Catholic Church - Melrose Park, PA anticipated generous assistance. $10,000 Ukrainian Catholic National Shrine of the - Washington, DC

MAY 14, 2017 16 Save the Date

MAY 14TH MOTHER’S DAY. OFFERING THANKSGIVING FOR YOUR MOTHER IN PRAYER AT CHURCH

MAY 21ST 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF PRIESTHOOD OF VERY REV. MSGR. RONALD POPIVCHAK, SS. PETER & PAUL UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, BRIDGEPORT, PA 12:00 NOON.

JUNE 18th FATHER’S DAY. OFFERING THANKSGIVING FOR YOUR FATHER IN PRAYER AT CHURCH

JULY 30TH ANNUAL SEMINARY UKRAINIAN DAYS AT MINERSVILLE, PA

AUGUST 13TH ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE OF DORMITION OF BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, SLOATSBURG, NY, SPONSORED BY SISTERS SERVANTS OF MARY IMMACULATE

AUGUST 19, 20TH UKRAINIAN FESTIVAL AT UKRAINIAN HOMESTEAD, LEHIGHTON, PA

AUGUST 27TH 2ND ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE AT ASSUMPTION OF BVM UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, CENTRALIA, PA

AUGUST 27TH UKRAINIAN FESTIVAL AT TRYZUB, HORSHAM, PA

SEPTEMBER 18-21ST UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CLERGY OF PHILADELPHIA RETREAT, LONG BRANCH, NJ

OCTOBER 1ST ARCHIEPARCHIAL PILGRIMAGE OF FEAST OF PROTECTION OF MOTHER OF GOD, MONASTERY GROUNDS OF ORDER OF SISTERS OF ST. BASIL, FOX CHASE, PA DIVINE LITURGY AT 11:00 AM; MOLEBEN AT 4:00 PM

OCTOBER 22nd MOLEBEN, ANOINTING FOR HEALING AND VENERATION OF HOLY RELICS OF BLESSED JOSAPHATA HORDASHEVSKA, SSMI, CELEBRATION OF 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF FOUNDING OF SISTERS SERVANTS OF MARY IMMACULATE. 3:00 PM - UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CATHEDRAL OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, PHILADELPHIA, PA

OCTOBER 29TH HIERARCHICAL DIVINE LITURGY AT ST. PAUL UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, RAMSEY, NJ AT 12 NOON CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PARISH

NOVEMBER 12TH HIERARCHICAL DIVINE LITURGY CELEBRATING 400TH ANNIVERSARY OF FOUNDING OF ORDER OF BASILIAN FATHERS OF ST. JOSAPHAT, 80 YEARS OF MINISTRY IN USA AND 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF CANONIZATION OF BISHOP MARTYR JOSAPHAT, OSBM. 10:00 AM – WARREN, MI.

DECEMBER 25TH CHRISTMAS – NATIVITY OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST YOUR PRAYERFUL PARTICIPATION IN LITURGY IS YOUR BEST GIFT TO JESUS, TO YOURSELF AND TO OTHERS!

MAY 14, 2017 17 An Evening of Prayer to the Blessed Mother of God at Assumption Parish in Perth Amboy, NJ

In response to the to come together for of St. Ann Society. During component of the Pastoral Letter of His the glory of God and the Moleben service Fr. evening, Rev. Ivan Turyk, Beatitude Sviatoslav, to honor His Blessed Taras Svirchuk., C.Ss.R. pastor of Assumption “The Vibrant Parish – Mother. Pastor of St. John's parish Church and spiritual a place to encounter in Newark, NJ offered advisor to St. Ann the living Christ,” that Over 100 ladies attended an inspiring reflection Society invited all encourages parishes to the Moleben service in on “Mary in the Gospel parishioners and guests become more vibrant our beautiful church on of St. Luke.” Fr. Taras for refreshments in the by responding to the Tuesday, May 9, 2017. emphasized that Luke’s parish hall that were needs of the community, Many of these women Gospel has much more prepared by members of the Assumption Parish in had never even been information about Mary St. Ann under direction Perth Amboy, NJ and in a Ukrainian Catholic than the other three do. and leadership of Mrs. members of St. Ann Church before let alone He also pointed out Melanie Fedynyshyn, Society invited Catholic attended a Moleben, that St. Luke gives us a president of St. Ann and non-Catholic women but they followed in their very intimate portrait of Society of Assumption of Perth Amboy and booklets, prayed, and her, showing her initial parish. The Woman's neighboring communities sang along with members surprise at the arrival Evening of Prayer was a of the angel Gabriel success and provided an and her subsequent opportunity for women to acceptance of her role learn about Blessed Mary as the Mother of the (the Theotokos) and her Savior. Luke also includes role in our Salvation and the story of Mary visiting strengthen their ties with her pregnant cousin other Christian women Elizabeth, which gives as they pray together. All us a rare glimpse into agreed that this evening female friendship and of Marian Devotion have familial support, and he provided nourishment alone has the beautiful for both body and soul. “Magnificat,” Mary’s Thanks to all who helped hymn of praise. make the occasion such a success. Fr. Taras Svirchuk., C.Ss.R. Following the prayerful MAY 14, 2017 18 Holy Week and Pascha at Saint Paul, Ramsey, NJ

MAY 14, 2017 19 63rd ANNUAL HOLY DORMITION (ASSUMPTION) PILGRIMAGE AUGUST 12 – 13, 2017 SISTERS SERVANTS OF MARY IMMACULATE ST. MARY’S VILLA / SLOATSBURG, New York Theme: Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate Celebrate 125 Years Glory to God! Honor to Mary! Peace to Us! CONFESSIONS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE WEEKEND Saturday, August 12 12:00 p.m. Food Available at Pavilion 1:00 p.m. Akathist to the Mother of God –Rev. Jack Custer, SSL, STD, Rector of St. Michael’s Cathedral, Passaic, NJ 2:30 pm Presentation – Sr. Janice Soluk, SSMI(St. Mary’s terrace) former SSMI Superior General – theme: Glory“ to God! Honor to Mary! Peace to Us!” 3:15 p.m. Children’s Activity –Sr. Eliane, SSMI (St. Mary’s terrace) 3:30 p.m. Blessing of the Sick (Grotto steps and St. Mary’s Chapel) Blessing of Religious Articles (front of St. Joseph’s Home) 5:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy – Fr. James Spera,main celebrant /homilist (grotto – English) Choir: St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, Hillsborough, NJ Blessing of Water at St. Mary’s Fountain 7:30 p.m. Panakhyda Blessed( Mother’s circle in front of St. Mary’s Villa) 8:00 p.m. Moleben to the Mother of God with candlelight procession (grotto – English) Most Rev. Kurt Burnette – Bishop of Passaic Eparchy - main celebrant / homilist Sunday, August 13 8:30 a.m. Materi Molitvy / Mothers in Prayer –Rosary / Singing (St. Mary’s Chapel) 10:30 a.m. Pontifical Divine Liturgywith procession to the grotto followed by blessing of flowers Most Rev. Stefan Soroka,Metropolitan Archbishop of Philadelphia Most Rev. Paul Chomnycky, OSBM, Bishop of the Eparchy of Stamford (homilist) Most Rev. Bohdan Danylo, Bishop of the Eparchy of Parma Most Rev. Basil Losten,Bishop Emeritus of the Eparchy of Stamford Choir: Holy Ghost Ukrainian Catholic Church, Brooklyn, NY 12:00 p.m. English Divine Liturgy - Rev. Bohdan Hedz, main celebrant / homilist (St. Mary’s Chapel) St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church, Riverhead, NY 1:30 p.m. Blessing of the Sick (Grotto steps and St. Mary’s Chapel) Blessing of Religious Articles(front of St. Joseph’s Home) 2:00 p.m. Presentations - Sr. Tekla Gnatyuk, SSMI (St. Mary’s terrace - Ukrainian) Sr. Janice Soluk, SSMI (Our Lady of Perpetual Help Shrine - English) 2:30 p.m. Stations of the Cross – Basilian Fathers 2:45 p.m. Children's & Teens’ Activity -Sr. Eliane, SSMI , Sr. Natalya, SSMI (St. Mary’s terrace) 3:00 p.m. Moleben to the Mother of God (Grotto) Rev. Andriy Dudkevych- St. Nicholas, Passaic, NJ– main celebrant / homilist Blessing of cars and buses – Rev. Ivan Tyhovych - Holy Ghost Parish, Brooklyn, NY A DVD of the Life & Ministry of the SSMI’s will be showing throughout the weekend in the Gallery Rt. Rev. Mitred Msgr. John Terlecky, Pilgrimage Spiritual Moderator

MAY 14, 2017 20 METROPOLITAN STEFAN’S SCHEDULE FOR MAY 2017

MAY 1 RECEIED MOTHER EHENIA PRUSNAY MSM SUPERIOR OF MISSIONARY SISTERS OF MOTHER OF OD 2 MEETIN OF URAINIAN CATHOLIC ISHOPS OF USA AND CANADA SITE ISIT OF RENOATIONS FOR CHANCERY RELOCATION MEETIN ITH RE PAUL MAAR REARDIN OCATIONS PRORAM 11 ISIT Y POTENTIAL TENANT FOR EISTIN CHANCERY AND FORMER CATHEDRAL RECTORY 20 RADUATION ANUET AND ALL THE URAINIAN HERITAE SCHOOL PHILADELPHIA AT URAINIAN EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL CENTER 21 HIERARCHIAL DIINE LITURY ON OCCASION OF THE FIFTIETH PRIESTLY UILEE FOR RE MSR RONALD PETER POPICHA STD AT SS PETER AND PAUL URAINIAN CATHOIC CHURCH RIDEPORT PA 2 FEAST OF ASCENSION OF OUR LORD AND SAIOR ESUS CHRIST URAINIAN CATHOLIC CATHEDRAL OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION PHILADELPHIA PA 1 RION CUTTIN AND RAND OPENIN OF URAINIAN SELF RELIANCE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION OFFICE AT 221 STREET ROAD FEASTERILLE PA

Save the Date

Wha t: Come Set Aside All Earthly Cares and pray with the Hierarchy, Clergy and Sisters at The Sisters of the Order of Saint Basil the Great

Annual Pilgrimage to the Mother of God.

When: Sunday, October 1, 2017

9am – 5pm Whe re: 710 Fox Chase Road Fox Chase Manor, PA 19046

Opportunities provided for:  Sacrament of Reconciliation  Hierarchial Divine Liturgy  Reciting the Rosary  Moleben

Services Provided:  Ethnic Food  Presentation for children  Presentation for youth  Opportunity to hear a panel on discussion on prayer and religious life

MAY 14, 2017 21

Our Lady of Fatima - 100th Anniversary (1917 - 2017)

Few events have had strong light. They thought such an important impact that this was lightning. in the history of the They were getting ready Church and indeed upon to flee, when suddenly the whole world as the another flash lit up over apparitions of the Most the place where there Holy Mother of God were oak trees. The in Fatima. The Mother children looked and saw of God first appeared a "Lady, brighter than the on May 13th of 1917 sun." Our Lady explained and appeared for six to the shepherd children consecutive months in that they needed to pray. 1917. The Holy Virgin Also Our Lady told the appeared to three children to return to this Portuguese shepherd very place on the 13th of children, Francisco, each month for the next Jacinta and Lucia. five months The apparitions of the Virgin Mary to the three The children came shepherd children found back in June, July, a place in the hearts September and October of millions of faithful to the same place and around the world. Both the Mother of God Francisco and Jacinta appeared. However, died in their youth. Lucia, in August the apparition Jacinta had just turned seven, Francisco who later became a , took place elsewhere. would soon be nine, and Lucia ten years old died at 95 years old in The apparition in August when the apparitions of the Mother of God 2005. The beatification 1917 occurred on the had begun on May 13th, 1917. Jacinta and for Lucia began in 2008. 19th of the month. For Francisco Marto to be canonized. (CNS photo) on the 13th of August, On May 13th, 1917, the mayor had arrested three poor children the shepherd children, grazed a small flock of believing that they were of God also asked that кардиналів_ sheep near the village subverting the people. a chapel be built at the франсіско_і_жасінта_ of Fatima. Lucia Santos The last revelation on site in Her honor. The марто,_пастушки_з_ was ten years old and October 13th 1917 took Blessed Virgin would фатіми,_будуть_ her cousins Jacinta and place in the presence later appear several проголошені_ Francisco Marto were of 70,000 people. They times to Lucia, who was святими_13_ seven and nine. One witnessed a miraculous at that time a nun. травня_2017_ afternoon, the children appearance: the sun, року/1307061 had playfully begun to like a silver disc, began build a hut of stone. to spin around in the sky This was the place like a fiery ball. It was Adapted from the article where there now stands on that same day, Our in Ukrainian on: http:// the Basilica of the Shrine Lady called Herself “the uk.radiovaticana.va/ of Fatima. Suddenly the Most Blessed Virgin of news/2017/04/20/ children had seen a the Rosary". The Mother консисторія_ MAY 14, 2017 22 Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka

PENNSYLVANIA CATHOLIC BISHOPS DEDICATE CATHOLIC DIOCESES AND EPARCHIES TO THE BLESSED MOTHER

On the occasion of the 100th Anniversary of the apparition of the Blessed Mother at Fatima, the Catholic Bishops of Pennsylvania have dedicated each diocese and eparchy in the Commonwealth to the Blessed Mother. The official dedication will be marked with a special Mass to be celebrated in St. Patrick Cathedral in Harrisburg, PA at 12 noon on Wednesday, September 27th by all the bishops of Pennsylvania. This Mass is scheduled during the time when the bishops will gather for their next provincial meeting. The second part of the dedication will be an observance in each diocese and eparchy during the weekend of October 14-15.

The Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia was dedicated to the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Mother of God when erected in 1907 by the first Greek Catholic Bishop, Most Rev. Soter Stephen Ortynsky, OSBM. Coincidently, the Feast of the Protection of the Mother of God is celebrated on October 14th on the Julian calendar. The celebration of the 100th anniversary of the appearance of the Blessed Mother at Fatima at that time will add special significance for all of us as we meditate on her special call for prayer for her intercession in our needs. Let us ask our Blessed Mother to extend her holy omophor over all who seek her protection.

Our Lady of Fatima - 1988

The traveling statue of Our Lady of Fatima visited the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia, PA.

On September 4, 1988 at 7:30 pm, the statue of Our Lady of Fatima came to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception accompanied by Msgr. Michael Fedorowich, Fr. Joseph Korinchock, religious sisters and a large number of faithful.

After entering the Cathedral, the faithful recited the rosary together and the Cathedral Fathers celebrated the Divine Liturgy and Moleben Prayer Service to the Mother of God.

Article from “The Way” September 25, 1988 Procession (Photo: Siwak Family) MAY 14, 2017 23 About the Seventy-Fifth Session of the Synod of Bishops of Kyiv- Galician Supreme Archbishopric of the UGCC

Thursday, 04 May 2017 Bishop Volodymyr Bishops of the UGCC of the Missionary fund of (Yuschak), Eparch of regarding the Strategy the UGCC, done by Fr. On April 26-27, 2017 Wroclaw-Gdansk, and of development of Roman Nebozhuk, and AD, under the lead of Bishop Nil (Luschak), our Church beyond reviewed the mechanisms the Father and Head Bishop auxiliary of Halychyna, report about of cooperation between of the UGCC, His Mukachevo Greek- the work of the Missionary hierarchical structures Beatitude Sviatoslav, at Catholic Eparchy. fund and cooperation of Halychyna with the Patriarchal Center with the eparchies from those from other parts in Lviv took place the In the first half of the day, the west of Ukraine". In of Ukraine, the report Seventy-Fifth Session of before the beginning the context of the main about which was done Bishops of Kyiv-Galician of the Synod's sessions, topic the synodal fathers by the Bishop Vasyl Supreme Archbishopric there was held a seminar listened to the report (Tuchapets). of the Ukrainian Greek devoted to the questions of the Bishop Bohdan Catholic Church. of pastoral care of the (Dziurakh) about the In the section of UGCC in the Eastern fulfillment of the Bishops' working over the In the Synod's sessions and Central Ukraine. decisions from 2013 synodal documents, participated all current regarding the strategy the Synod adopted the bishops of Kyiv-Galician The main topic of this of development of our Declaration regarding Supreme Archbishopric Session of the Synod Church in the east of the "revelations" of s. of the UGCC, and of Bishops of Supreme Ukraine - "Directions for Mariya Baran, spread also: Bishop Yevhen Archbishopric was "State new evangelization in the by Fr. Hryhorij Planchak. (Popovych), Metropolitan of fulfilling decisions UGCC." They approved of Peremyshl'-Warsaw; of the 2013 Synod of the report about the work (continued on next page) MAY 14, 2017 24 About the Seventy-Fifth Session of the Synod of Bishops of Kyiv- Galician Supreme Archbishopric of the UGCC (continued from previous page)

A considerable part of emigrants in . Bohdan (Manyshyn), the the new directions of the synodal sessions head of the Coordination bachelor programs. was devoted to the The Synod pondered council, and Ms issue of providing on the question of Maria Sokhatska, who The seventy-sixth session proper pastoral care for proper honoring the spoke about modern of the Synod of Bishops the Ukrainian migrant 70 years of the action therapeutic practices of Kyiv-Galician Supreme workers and emigrants "Visla" and adopted the which could be useful Archbishopric of the in Poland. About the corresponding decisions for those who suffered UGCC will be held in current pastoral situation for honoring the victims from the war in the east June 2017 AD. in this country reported of that violence. of Ukraine and those in detail: Metropolitan who have post-traumatic Secretariat of the Yevhen (Popovych), Fr. Andrij Stadnytsky, the stress disorder. Synod of Bishops of Bishop Volodymyr head of the Catechetic Kyiv-Galician Supreme (Yuschak) and fr. Stepan commission of Kyiv The members of the Archbishopric of the Batrukh. In the result of Galician Supreme Synod listened to the UGCC discussing this question Archbishopric of the information about the the Synod expressed UGCC, reported about mission and work of gratitude to the bishops its work. The synodal the Ukrainian Catholic http://news.ugcc.ua/ and fathers of our fathers approved of University, which was en/news/about_the_ Church in Poland for the this report, taking it into presented by Mr Lubomyr seventyfifth_session_of_ proper pastoral care for consideration. Tarnovsky, the financial the_synod_of_bishops_ the Ukrainian migrant The Synod listened to the director of the UCU. of_kyiv_galician_ workers and emigrants, information about the The Synod approved of supreme_archbishopric_ and adopted a couple work of the Coordination the information about of_the_ugcc_79385.html of decisions, which council on matters of the state of material and should help to organize pastoral care in critical financial providing of good pastoral care for situations, which was this church educational our migrant workers and presented by Bishop institution and about

Resolutions of the Seventy-Fifth Session of Bishops of Kyiv Galician Supreme Archbishopric of the UGCC

Thursday, 04 May 2017 the main topic of the consideration the report those from other parts of Synod of Bishops as of the UGCC Missionary Ukraine. Resolutions of the of 2013 regarding the Fund about arriving funds Seventy-Fifth Session of strategy of development and their distribution. 4. To entrust to the Bishops ofc, 26-27 April of our Church in the east Patriarchal economate 2017 AD, Lviv of Ukraine - "Directions 3. To take into of the UGCC to develop of new evangelization in consideration the state the Statute of the All- 1. To take into the UGCC." of collaboration between Church Fund of priestly consideration the state hierarchical structures of fulfilling decisions of 2. To take into from Halychyna and (continued on next page) MAY 14, 2017 25 Resolutions of the Seventy-Fifth Session of Bishops of Kyiv Galician Supreme Archbishopric of the UGCC (continued from previous page) solidarity and present of Poland with the aim by the UGCC in Poland consideration the report it for consideration and of providing proper so that our faithful could about the work of the approval to the Synod of pastoral care to the receive good spiritual Catechetical commission Bishops of the UGCC in faithful of the UGCC in guidance in their Church of Kyiv Galician Supreme 2017. Poland. during their stay in this Archbishopric of the country. UGCC. 5. To approve the B. To ask the Bishops of declaration of the Kyiv Galician Supreme 8. For proper honoring These resolutions come Synod of Bishops of Archbishopric of the of the victims of the into effect on May, 15 Kyiv Galician Supreme UGCC in the bilateral operation "Wisla", 1947: 2017 AD. Archbishopric of the work with the UGCC UGCC regarding the episcopate in Poland А. On Sunday, April "revelations" of s. Maria to actively care about 30, 2017 AD, to serve The Head of the Synod: Baran, which are being providing good pastoral Requiem Masses to His Beatitude Sviatoslav spread by Fr. Antonij support for our migrant commemorate the victims Hryhorij Planchak. workers and emigrants of this violence. http://news.ugcc.ua/ in Poland. en/articles/resolutions_ 6. On behalf of the B. To install in all of_the_seventyfifth_ Synod of Bishops of C. To ask the priests of cathedrals of our Church session_of_bishops_of_ Kyiv Galician Supreme Kyiv Galician Supreme commemorative plaques kyiv_galician_supreme_ Archbishopric of the Archbishopric of the for honoring the victims archbishopric_of_the_ UGCC to express UGCC to inform their of this violence. ugcc_79415.html gratitude to the bishops faithful about various and priests of our Church structures and events held 9. To take into in Poland for the proper pastoral support they give to our Ukrainian migrant workers and emigrants.

7. For providing proper pastoral guidance for the Ukrainian migrant workers and emigrants in Poland:

А. To ask His Beatitude Sviatoslav to send a letter to the Polish catholic episcopate regarding the collaboration between the UGCC and the MAY 14, 2017 26 Audience: Look to Mary, Mother of Hope

May 10, 2017

() during his Wednesday General Audience continued his catechesis on Christian hope, highlighting Mary the Mother of Hope.

On the eve of his Apostolic visit to Fatima, Pope Francis on Wednesday, described Mary as the Mother of Hope adding that she was a woman of courage, perseverance and obedience.

Speaking to the thousands of pilgrims and tourists in St Peter’s Square, the Pope said that, “Our Lady’s experience of motherhood models that of so many mothers in our world.” Mothers who have had to confront the suffering of their children.

He went on to say that she courageously accepted her vocation and welcomed the new life entrusted to her. The Holy Father also noted how despite the trials in her life, she remained always obedient to God. Mary, Pope Francis commented, is with her son until the very end. Her image, he said “standing at the foot of the cross and grieving the death of her innocent Son has inspired artists of every age to present her as a model of persevering hope in God’s promises.”

The hope that Our Lady had, underlined the Pope, was the fruit of a life of prayer and daily effort to be conformed to God’s will, and was fulfilled in Jesus’ rising to new life. We are not orphans, Pope Francis added, “we have a Mother in heaven who is the Holy Mother of God.”

Following his catechesis, the Holy Father, greeting Portuguese speaking pilgrims asked for prayers for his upcoming visit to Fatima. He also had words of welcome for a delegation of young Russian priests of the Patriarchate of Moscow who are being hosted by the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of Christian unity.

http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2017/05/10/pope_audience_look_to_mary,_mother_of_hope/1311172

His Beatitude Sviatoslav participated in celebration of Hungarian Archeparchy of Hajdudorog

Monday, 01 May 2017 Metropolitan Curia Catholic Church Cardinal of Hungarian Greek Peter Erdo, Metropolitan In prayer participated His Beatitude Sviatoslav Catholic Church in of Hajdudorog Philip Greek Catholic bishops paid a working visit Debrecen, held on 29th Kochish, Eparch of from different countries: to Hungary. Being of April. Miscolc Greek Catholic Bishop William Skurla, invited by Metropolitan Eparchy, Athanasius Metropolitan of of Hungarian Greek His Beatitude Sviatoslav Oros and Apostolic Pittsburgh (USA); Ivan Catholic Church Philip led a Rite of Administrator of Kochish he took part conjointly with Nyiregyhaza Eparchy, Fr in the consecration of of Hungarian Roman Avel Sochka. (continued on next page)

MAY 14, 2017 27 His Beatitude Sviatoslav participated in celebration of Hungarian Archeparchy of Hajdudorog (continued from previous page)

Babyak, Metropolitan of Presov, Hungary; Dura Dzudzar, Apostolic of Serbia; Virgil Bercea, Eparch of Oradea, Romania; Milan Shashik, eparch of Mukachevo; Roman Catholic Bishops of Hungary.

Among the invited guests were the representatives of Hungarian government together with representatives of different religious confessions of Hungary. A delegation from Ukraine was headed by Fr Oleh Oleksa, secretary of His Beatitude Sviatoslav, Fr Damian Haboryi, priest for Ukrainians in Hungary and Br who invited His Beatitude and confirmed by Pius X. Eparchy in Nyiregyhaza Hypatius, O.S.B.M. Sviatoslav with an official It included 162 parishes. by means of separating it visiting Budapest. During To the Archeparchy of from a previous Eparchy His Beatitude Sviatoslav the meeting two sides Hajdudorog belong of Hajdudorog. congratulated agreed on granting Hungarians of east Metropolitan Philip and mutual pastoral care all rite, mostly ancestors of http://news.ugcc.ua/ Hungarian clergy on faithful of UGCC. Hungarian Ruthenians- en/news/his_beatitude_ this historical event and Ukrainians. sviatoslav_participated_ thanked for contribution The UGCC Department in_celebration_of_ in delivering spiritual for Information March 20, 2015 Pope hungarian_archeparchy_ care for Ukrainians who Francis gave Hungarian of_hajdudorog_79386. live in Hungary. Reference: press-service Greek Catholic Church html of UGCC in Hungary a status of archeparchy. In the frame of Archeparchy of Eparchy of Hajdudorog celebration was held Hajdudorog was became an Archeparchy, a meeting of Head of established in 1912 exarchate of Miskolc UGCC with Head of by Franz Joseph I became a Eparchy, Roman Catholic Church under the pressure of and besides, there in Hungary cardinal Erdo Hungarian government was created one more

MAY 14, 2017 28 The Mosaic of the Mother of God on the Apsidal Wall of the Golden-domed Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

The Mother of God, the During the celebration of Theotokos, is greatly the Divine Liturgy, listen honored in Eastern to the many references Christianity. Liturgy, to Mary. Many of the sacred music and ektenias have the petition iconography all give “Remembering our most special emphasis to holy and immaculate, Mary, the mother of most blessed and Jesus Christ in the Eastern glorious Lady, the Christian Churches. Mother of God and ever- virgin Mary, together The small town of with all the , let Ephesus in present day us commend ourselves Turkey played a unique and one another and role in the development our whole life to Christ of this devotion to the our God.” The antiphon Most Holy Mother of refrain is “Through the God. A heresy, known prayers of the Mother of as Nestorianism, claimed God, O Savior, save us.” Mary was the “Mother And after the anaphora, of Christ” but not the the hymn “It is truly right” “Mother of God.” In in honor of the Blessed 431, the Emperor Mother is sung. Theodosius II, convened what was the Third Besides references to Ecumenical Council of the Mother of God the Church in the town of in the Divine Liturgy, Ephesus. At this Council many prayer services the bishops decreed that and devotions were Jesus was one person, composed including a not two separate people: Moleben to the Mother complete God and of God and the Akathist Cathedral, Philadelphia complete man, with a hymn, which was written rational soul and body. in the 6th century and the distribution of the 12th century, founded the The Virgin Mary was to attributed to St. Romanos Holy Eucharist. Saint Sophia Cathedral be called Theotokos a the Melodist. in Kyiv, Ukraine. Located Greek word that means Mary also became on the Wall of the "God-bearer." And it is almost an important person sanctuary is the Virgin impossible to attend any depicted in iconography orans, the Oranta, a 6 Since that time the Divine Liturgy without especially in the Ukrainian meter high mosaic of devotion to Mary hearing a hymn sung in Catholic Church. the Virgin Mary with her continued to increase. honor of the Most Holy Mother of God during Yaroslav the Wise, in the (continued on next page) MAY 14, 2017 29 The Mosaic of the Mother of God on the Apsidal Wall of the Golden-domed Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

(continued from previous page) armed extended upright problems and concerns. 23 feet by 42 feet and "Our Lady of the Sign," in prayer. is a dominant feature a reference to Isaiah On the wall behind that everyone who 7:14: "Therefore the Lord The image is considered the altar in Ukrainian enters the cathedral himself shall give you one of the greatest Catholic Churches, it notices towering above a sign; Behold, a virgin sacred symbols in became traditional to the iconostas. The shall conceive, and bear Ukraine. It has been place the image of the mosaic was installed a son, and shall call his called an "Indestructible Mother of God. When the in November, 1967, in name Emmanuel." Wall." Legend says that golden domed Ukrainian time for the celebration as long as the Theotokos Catholic Cathedral of the of the first Divine Liturgy The Playtera or “wider is extending her arms Immaculate Conception in the new cathedral on than the heavens” over Kyiv, the city will was built in the 1960s in December 3, 1967 which reference is also found in stand indestructible. Philadelphia, plans were also was the celebration the hymn to the Mother of The embroidered made for a mosaic of the of the Silver Jubilee of the God in the Divine Liturgy handkerchief on the belt Theotokos to be placed episcopal ordination of of St. Basil the Great- of the Mother of God in this sacred space. Metropolitan-Archbishop -“From whom God is is popularly thought to . made flesh and became be for wiping away the The mosaic, designed by a little Child; and He tears of those who come iconographer Chrystyna The mosaic would who is our God before before her with their Dochwat, measures properly be called the ages, He made your the Panagia (all holy) womb a throne, and He Platytera (wider or made it wider than all spacious). It is an icon of the heavens.” the Theotokos, facing the viewer directly, usually Mary's robe is blue depicted full length with signifying her humanity. her hands in the “orans” Her cloak is red, position, and with the symbolizing divinity since image of Christ as a she became the Mother child in front of her chest, of God. also facing the viewer directly. Often the image Three stars are also of Christ is contained shown on her cloak— within a medallion. By one on her head and containing the Creator one on each shoulder. of the Universe in her These stars symbolize womb, Mary has become her perpetual divinity— "more spacious than the before, during and after heavens." This icon is the birth of Jesus Christ. often referred to as the The Oranta, Kyiv, Ukraine "Virgin of the Sign" or (continued on next page) MAY 14, 2017 30 The Mosaic of the Mother of God on the Apsidal Wall of the Golden-domed Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (continued from previous page)

The image of the pattern. In iconography, throne, high and lifted Book of Isaiah are found Christ child represents the mandorla is used to up; and His train filled in the anaphora of the Him at the moment of depict sacred moments the sanctuary. Above Divine Liturgy. His conception in the which transcend time him stood the Seraphim; womb of the Virgin. He and space. each had six wings; with The cathedral mosaic is depicted not as a two he covered his face, of the Theotokos should fetus, but rather vested On both sides of the and with two he covered always serve as a in divine robes, and mosaic are stained glass his feet, and with two he reminder to us as children often holding a scroll, windows with twelve flew." (Isaiah 6:1–3) of God that we may symbolic of His role as seraphim. seek the intercession of teacher. Sometimes His The seraphim cry His Most Blessed Mother robes are gold or white, The word seraphim continually to each other, for our needs and our symbolizing divine glory. appears three times in the “Holy, holy, holy is the protection. Torah (Numbers 21:6–8, Lord of hosts: the whole Surrounding Mary is a Deuteronomy 8:15) and earth is full of His glory." (to be continued) mandorla (mandorla four times in the Book (verses 2–3) One seraph comes from the Italian of Isaiah (6:2–6, 14:29, then carries out an act word for almond because 30:6). In Isaiah 6:2-6 the of purification for the of its shape) shaped term is used to describe prophet by touching his aureola, a golden a type of celestial being lips with a live coal from cloud surrounding her or angel. The vision the altar (verses 6–7). in an ovid shape with in Isaiah Chapter 6 of golden rays of divinity seraphim in an idealised Christian theology places emanating behind Jerusalem First Temple seraphim in the highest her. These mandorla represents the sole choir of the angelic will often be painted instance in the Hebrew hierarchy. They are the in several concentric Bible of this word being caretakers of God's patterns of color. In the used to describe celestial throne, continuously cathedral mosaic one beings. "... I saw the singing "holy, holy, holy". can notice the concentric Lord sitting upon a These words from the Seraphim MAY 14, 2017 31 Moleben at Ascension Manor

Moleben in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary was offered at Ascension Manor on May 10, 2017. Ascension Manor is a Senior Citizen Apartment Complex for people 62 and older. It is under the direction of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia.

Ascension Manor, 911 N. Franklin St., Philadelphia, PA 19123, 215-922-1116, Equal Housing Opportunity

Rev. D. George Worschak

Editorial and Business Office: 827 N. Franklin St. Philadelphia, PA 19123 Telephone: (215) 627-0143 E-mail: [email protected] Established 1939

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THE WAY Staff Ms. Teresa Siwak, Editor; Rev. D. George Worschak, Assistant Editor; Very Rev. Archpriest John Fields, Director of Communication

Articles and photos proposed for publication should be in the Editor’s office at least two weeks before requested date of publication. For advance notice of the upcoming events, kindly send one month in advance. All articles must be submitted in both English and Ukrainian languages, THE WAY will not translate proposed articles. All materials submitted to THE WAY become the property of THE WAY. MAY 14, 2017 32