CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ST. GEORGE ORTHODOX (1969-2019)

The Voice † of St. George

Fall 2019

St. George Serbian Serbian Orthodox Western American Table of Contents: 3. Father Bratso’s Letter to the 5. Communique of the 22nd Church Assembly IN Chicago, IL 10. Celebrating the 800th anniversary of the of the Serbian Ortho- dox Church in San Gabriel, CA

11. History of George Serbian Ortho- dox Church in San Diego 14. In Memoriam—Mr. Predrag Mitrovich 16. Photos from the 50th Anniversary Celebration 18. Statement from Episcopal Council

20. St. George Calendar of Events 21. Transfiguration of Our Lord Christ by Saint Nikolai Velimirovic 22. Become a Festival Sponsor and Volun- teer 24. St. George Parish Graduates 2019 Front page: Mosaic of the St. George in San Diego 26. St. John (Maximovich) on Orthodox un- Diocesan : The Right Rev. Bishop derstanding of the most Holy Lady Dr. Maxim (Vasiljevic) Diocesan website http://westsrbdio.org 29. Letter from the Stewardship Chair Maja ______Topalovic Photography: Father Bratso, Natalia Valenti Editor: Father Bratso 30. Morava News by Cristina Dukovich Mail your materials to Natalia Valenti at [email protected]

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Draskovic as well as Protopresbyter as well as Draskovic

their Hierarch, visiting and local local and visiting Hierarch, their

gratitude for many blessings blessings many for gratitude

stavrophor Bozidar Bozidar stavrophor - topresbyter

ioners, supporters and friends with with friends and supporters ioners,

greeting everyone expressing her her expressing everyone greeting

struction and consecration and Pro- and consecration and struction

A festive gathering of parish- of gathering festive A

dent of the Church Board, also also Board, Church the of dent

parish at the time of church’s con- church’s of time the at parish

Kathryn Thickstun, the presi- the Thickstun, Kathryn

4th. and 3rd August Sunday, Velimir Petakovic who served the the served who Petakovic Velimir

parish. George St. stavrophor stavrophor - Protopresbyter parish, Diego, CA, on Saturday and and Saturday on CA, Diego,

in the furtherance of ministries at at ministries of furtherance the in George St. of emeriti and CA,

bian Orthodox Church, San San Church, Orthodox bian

fices made in the last 50 years and and years 50 last the in made fices Marcos, San Petka, St. Katanic, lovan

took place at St. George Ser- George St. at place took

and clergy for the great many sacri- many great the for clergy and Mi- Protopresbyter CA, Alhambra,

A jubilant celebration celebration jubilant A and commended the parishioners parishioners the commended and Cathedral, Steven’s St. Ceko, Nikola

ry of . He recognized recognized He Father. the God of ry stavrophor - Protopresbyter were:

just as Christ receives us to the glo- the to us receives Christ as just clergy visiting Other Joy. presbytera

Father Bratso Krsic Bratso Father

er with Christian love and honor honor and love Christian with er and Corona Simeon Fr. cantors,

Lord, our Christ in love my of all With pel of Christ and receiving each oth- each receiving and Christ of pel visiting local and parish the Grace,

one to continue witnessing the Gos- the witnessing continue to one His by sung were day the of stichera ministries!

congratulatory words asking every- asking words congratulatory the while responses common God’s blessing upon you and our our and you upon blessing God’s

op Maxim greeted everyone with with everyone greeted Maxim op the sung choir George St. serve. Lord at St. George parish. I call call I parish. George St. at Lord

from one segment to the next. Bish- next. the to segment one from to Radovanovic Vladan It is an honor to serve the the serve to honor an is It

brila Undheim who led the program program the led who Undheim brila and CA, Gabriel, San parish, Sava

Orthodox Faith. Orthodox

The emcee for the evening was Do- was evening the for emcee The St. from Bojovic Predrag presbyter

love and care for our parish and our our and parish our for care and love

performance by St. George choir. choir. George St. by performance Proto- to blessing Archpastoral his

those who exemplify stewardship, stewardship, exemplify who those

groups, Morava Sr. and Jr., and a a and Jr., and Sr. Morava groups, giving church the entered Maxim

and we will continue to recognize recognize to continue will we and

performance by the parish folklore folklore parish the by performance Bishop service. Vespers a for church

There are so many to thank thank to many so are There

The next highlights were a a were highlights next The the in gathered faithful the , 3 gust rd

parish ministries. ministries. parish

Then, on Saturday night, Au- night, Saturday on Then,

ministries.

ued vibrancy and furtherance of our our of furtherance and vibrancy ued

refreshments. and ies future for the furtherance of parish parish of furtherance the for future

a testimony of St. George’s contin- George’s St. of testimony a

church building and looking into the the into looking and building church cook- pastries, made home of table

article. Our festive celebration was was celebration festive Our article.

ing the history of the parish and and parish the of history the ing hospitality the of partake to hall cial

a preface to the 50 the to preface a anniversary anniversary

th

was played in two parts highlight- parts two in played was so- the into invited were then and

to all of you that I write this note as as note this write I that you of all to

of a little over 30 minutes in length length in minutes 30 over little a of clergy parish the by tour personal

It is with profound gratitude gratitude profound with is It

ter Bratislav Bratso Krsic. The video video The Krsic. Bratso Bratislav ter a have and 20 July on house open th

Dear Parishioners and Friends, and Parishioners Dear

current parish priest Protopresby- priest parish current an for church the visit to invited

clergy emeriti, parishioners and the the and parishioners emeriti, clergy were Neighbors direction. each in

was a video with interviews of the the of interviews with video a was blocks several property church the

gram among other program parts parts program other among gram surrounding homes all to tations

quet meal. Highlights of the pro- the of Highlights meal. quet invi- 250 over out sending by hood

sisters prepared a delicious ban- delicious a prepared sisters neighbor- the to out reach to also

Cruz and Sladana Melos, with the the with Melos, Sladana and Cruz but journey, lane” memory “down

De La La De - Bozinovska Jadranka Sisters, a as only not celebration entire the

presidents of the Circle of Serbian Serbian of Circle the of presidents - planned Anthofer Kira by chaired

quet took place in the social hall. Co hall. social the in place took quet committee, anniversary The

a special evening program and ban- and program evening special a

year. this of 4 and 3 gust

th rd

Following the Vespers service service Vespers the Following

San Diego, CA, took place on Au- on place took CA, Diego, San

Marina. presbytera George Serbian Orthodox church in in church Orthodox Serbian George

honored guest of the diocese with with diocese the of guest honored St. of consecration the of sary

stavrophor Stamatis Skliris, an an Skliris, Stamatis stavrophor - anniver- 50 the of honor in clergy th

PARISH THE TO LETTER BRATSO’S FATHER

received at the parish as choir Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox ryone. God answers our prayer and director and parishioner. A silent Church, His Grace Bishop Gregory. heals us according to our faith. This auction with many artworks, house- The first service in the new social begs the question: what is faith? The hold and culinary items were on dis- hall was held on December 11, 1966, Epistle for today explains the matter. play. The music entertainment for with the Sunday school room serving We have faith if we live as and be- the evening was performed by San as a chapel. February 18, 1967 come like Christ, Who only thought Diego Balkan Band. marked the official dedication of the of others. If we are in any way self- social hall, with many friends from centered, we do not have true faith. If Towards the end of the pro- throughout California attending this we find ourselves to be lacking in gram , several parishioners were rec- historic event. faith, or perhaps the fruit of faith, this ognized with Episcopal Gramatas results in things that matter in our and the order of St. Sebastian was The Building Committee imme- lives, when we must find a way to bestowed upon four recipients, Proto- diately proceeded with plans for a increase our faith. It is reasonable to presbyter-stavrophor Velimir Pe- new parish home and a church build- ask the Lord for this, since the Apos- takovic, Protopresbyter-stavrophor ing. On December 17, 1967, Bishop tles themselves also asked him to in- Bozidar Draskovic, Mr. Predrag Mi- Gregory officiated at the consecra- crease their faith. trovic, chairman of the building com- tion of the church grounds, and con- mittee, and Mr. Milojko Mike Vucelic. struction of the church commenced A luncheon followed in the so- The history of St. George parish is thereafter. cial hall. His Grace suggested to put marked with a humble beginning all tables together making one big The consecration of the new St. with God’s help and the strong faith table which presented a great oppor- George church took place on July 26 and will of its members. The parish tunity to continue agape (meal of and 27, 1969. St. George church is a was founded on May 4, 1952. Christian love and fellowship). The modern revival and continuation of celebration was concluded with a On October 16, 1953, the parish the rich Serbian tradition in art and short presentation on the mono- purchased a building site at 3265 architecture. Inspired by the master graph, The Serbian Christian Heritage Lincoln Avenue in San Diego. This pieces created during the Golden Age of America, with detailed history of property was consecrated on Octo- of the in the Middle each Serbian Orthodox parish in ber 29, 1954. Groundbreaking for the Ages, St. George Church is an original America. This capital work was led church building and the social hall and contemporary work created by by Bishop Maxim and represents not took place on April 1, 1956 and dedi- architect George Lykos. The beauty only a historical testimony of the Ser- cation ceremonies were held on No- of its design is an inspiration to wor- bian Church, but also a testament of vember 18 of the same year. shippers and lovers of unity and faithfulness to Svetosavlje. The Department of Highways of everywhere. Protopresbyter Bratislav, the the State of California purchased the One of the outstanding features parish priest, gave his concluding property from the parish in 1962, of St. George church is its magnificent remarks: I humbly ask you that we thus giving the opportunity for the mosaic, especially those covering its together in unity and with thanksgiv- parish to relocate to the Mission Bay interior. Park area of San Diego. On the rec- ing to our Lord continue this course On Sunday, August 4th, the Mat- ommendation of a Building Commit- for the next 50 years, even unto eterni- ins service preceded Hierarchical Di- tee appointed by the congregation, ty. Let us treasure this time. Let us ap- vine Liturgy. At the end of the Liturgy the parish acquired a two and half preciate it. Let us also rejoice, for a Parastos-Memorial service for all acre parcel of land on Denver Street Christ gave us the answer to the reposed parish clergy, parishioners in Mission Bay Park. The committee greatest existential question by con- and all those who died during the then engaged a local architect, Mr. quering death with His resurrection. in Krajina was George Lykos, to design the new “Ljudi likujte, narodi cujte, Hristos served. Father Stamatis gave a ser- church building and the social hall. Voskrese radost donese-People ex- mon outlining the according claim, nations hear, Christ is risen – Construction of the social hall to St. Matthew 9:27-35, the healing of He brought us joy!” It is an honor for began on May 22, 1966, with a the two blind men when Jesus ex- me to serve God here at our beloved groundbreaking service officiated by claimed: “According to your faith be St. George parish. By God’s grace I the bishop of the Western American it unto you”. This is the case for eve- look forward to continuing our minis-

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 4

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brated by our hierarchs at St. Sava Sava St. at hierarchs our by brated should be understood in this con- this in understood be should Ser- the to and to service

Orthodox Church's autocephaly autocephaly Church's Orthodox his of recognition in Degree First cele- Liturgy Divine Hierarchical

of the Assembly was certainly the the certainly was Assembly the of 800th Anniversary of the Serbian Serbian the of Anniversary 800th the in Sava St. of Order the awarded

bounded by time and space. The The space. and time by bounded was Demetrios tyville, highlight The enshrined. are relics

the eternity of the Kingdom un- Kingdom the of eternity the Liber- of Mardarije St. of honor in incorruptible his where Libertyville,

from our temporal existence into into existence temporal our from Feast Patronal the of Rite the of tion in Sava St. the founded

Bishop in North America, who who America, North in Bishop and history. It exists to bring us us bring to exists It history. and celebra- the and Liturgy Divine the

time and history and beyond time time beyond and history and time following Church, Orthodox Serbian Orthodox Serbian first the tyville,

the , and it exists both in in both exists it and Eucharist, the the of of Holy the of Liber- of Mardarije St. of those with

unites heaven and earth above all in in all above earth and heaven unites decision the By Diokleia. of (Ware) along invoked, were Church dox

the Autocephalous Serbian Ortho- Serbian Autocephalous the also truly both divine and human. It It human. and divine both truly also Kallistos Metropolitan Eminence

the Church, as the , is is Christ, of Body the as Church, the His and America, of Archdiocese of Archbishop first and Enlightener

man may become what God is.” And And is.” God what become may man Orthodox Greek the of Archbishop the Sava, St. of prayers The Church.

“God became what man is, so that that so is, man what became “God retired recently Demetrios, bishop Orthodox Serbian the of cephaly

that, in the words of the Fathers, Fathers, the of words the in that, Arch- Eminence His were Liturgy Auto- of Anniversary 800th the of ca

and completely God. He does this so so this does He God. completely and this at hierarchs other the with rist Ameri- in celebration central the be

man being, while remaining fully fully remaining while being, man Eucha- Holy the receiving and sent to blessed also was Assembly This

becomes fully and completely a hu- a completely and fully becomes pre- Also . of Bishop retired

God, by Whom all things were made, made, were things all Whom by God, Sava, Bishop Grace His and Russia, Father. the God of glory

Jesus Christ, the Son and Word of of Word and Son the Christ, Jesus of Outside Church Orthodox sian assemble in Christ's name to the the to name Christ's in assemble

understanding that in the person of of person the in that understanding Rus- the representing America, - Mid gifts of the to those who who those to Spirit Holy the of gifts

Christianity, the Incarnation, the the Incarnation, the , and Chicago of Archbishop of mind and heart, which are the the are which heart, and mind of

on a central belief of Orthodox Orthodox of belief central a on Eminence His with together ca, er, which brings the love and unity unity and love the brings which er,

Appropriately his address centered centered address his Appropriately Ameri- Eastern of Irinej Bishop and ized by Christian fellowship in pray- in fellowship Christian by ized

by God, Treasured by the People”. People”. the by Treasured God, by bishop, host America, Midwestern out, the meetings were character- were meetings the out,

Serbian Orthodox Church: Endowed Endowed Church: Orthodox Serbian - Gracanica New of Longin Bishop ceses in the United States. Through- States. United the in ceses

“800 Years of the Autocephaly of the the of Autocephaly the of Years “800 Graces Their with concelebration Sabor of the Serbian Orthodox Dio- Orthodox Serbian the of Sabor

dress on the Assembly's theme: theme: Assembly's the on dress in Liturgy, the celebrated America nois for the 22nd Church Assembly Church 22nd the for nois -

and history gave the keynote ad- keynote the gave history and Western of Maxim Bishop Grace His Sava Monastery in Libertyville, Illi- Libertyville, in Monastery Sava

author on Orthodox theology, faith faith theology, Orthodox on author astery in Third Lake, Illinois and St. St. and Illinois Lake, Third in astery

of the past sixty years and prolific prolific and years sixty past the of 16, 2019 at New Gracanica Mon- Gracanica New at 2019 16, - 13 presence. his in Eucharist

foremost spokesmen for Orthodoxy Orthodoxy for spokesmen foremost United States of America met July July met America of States United receive the Heavenly Mystery of the the of Mystery Heavenly the receive

Metropolitan Kallistos, one of the the of one Kallistos, Metropolitan the Serbian Orthodox Church in the the in Church Orthodox Serbian the were able to venerate his relics and and relics his venerate to able were

bodies from the three of of Dioceses three the from bodies gates and faithful God of people faithful and gates

representing and diocesan diocesan and parishes representing ministry. of dele- The relics. holy Mardarije’s

The hierarchs, clergy and delegates delegates and clergy hierarchs, The bian people during his many years years many his during people bian St. of presence the in Monastery,

People the by Treasured God, by Endowed Church: Orthodox Serbian the of Autocephaly the of Years 800

Communiqué of the 22nd Church Assembly Assembly Church 22nd the of Communiqué

text—that God works in history to The Assembly discussed and de- ture, will be done by the Episcopal bring us to salvation in this world cided on a number of issues which Council in tandem with the Holy so that we may live forever in and fall within its competency: Synod of Bishops; with the blessed in the  Kingdom which is now and is com-  A report on the work of the A combined version of the cur- ing as well. The Assembly was various Standing Committees since rent , General Rules blessed to hear several presenta- the last Assembly was heard; and Regulations and Uniform tions by Metropolitan Kallistos Rules and Regulations for Parishes over the course of the Assembly,  Reports on the major decisions and Church School Congregations going deeper into the ways God of the Central Church Council and of the Serbian Orthodox Dioceses works in His Church with His peo- from the Central Treasurer since in the United States of America ple for their ultimate salvation, the last Assembly were presented; was published and distributed to and that of the world. all attendees and received by such on July 16, 2019. The printed The Assembly was also hon- new white bound edition is ored to have as its guest, the a compilation of all prior docu- Most Venerable ments, inclusive of past amend- Metodije, Abbot of the Hilan- ments and updated decisions dar Monastery, the first Serbi- rendered by the Holy Assembly an institution of higher educa- of Bishops that have been in- tion, the foundation of corporated into the prior ver- Sava and his father, Saint Sim- sions of all three documents; eon, which is the center of Ser- and bian spirituality on Holy Clergy compensation, including . pension and health care plans, was discussed. A new monthly Gathered in conjunction with minimum remuneration for this Assembly were a record clergy of $3,200 per month was number of young Serbian Or- enacted. The current church thodox , brought to- pension plan is under study by gether by the Standing Com- the Central Church Council for mittee on Youth Ministry, who possible revision and improve- had the opportunity to share ment. in the worship and some of the presentations of the Assembly, as well as pursuing their own Ministry to America program aimed at advancing their growth in Christ and The Assembly expressed seri- their future service to God and ous and deep concern for the His Church. The keynote spiritual state of American cul- speaker for the youth was fa- ture and society. While we mous Hollywood actor Jona- know we are truly blessed to than Jackson. St. George SOC mosaic live and prosper in these United  A presentation on the im- States of America with the free- The Assembly was chaired by the portance of adequate insurance for dom and liberty we so enjoy, we Presidents of the Assembly, Bishop congregations and diocesan prop- are more conscious than ever be- Longin, Bishop Maxim and Bishop erties, as well as child and youth fore of serious challenges to Chris- Irinej. The Assembly thanked safety, was made by and tian morality. This way of life and Their Graces for their labor in the Daniel Herzak of Insurance Sys- conduct is given to us by God to vineyard of our Lord in the USA, tems Group, which has developed aid us in fulfilling our vocation to protecting the values of our faith, a group insurance plan tailored to become truly human, and in so do- liturgical life, Orthodox Tradition, the needs of the Serbian Orthodox ing to be joined to the divine. hierarchical and canonical order, Church; While the Church understands that and joined in the prayer of the Di- there exist in a free secular society vine Liturgy asking that God may  A report on the St. Sava School differences of belief and opinion, grant them to continue to define of Theology was presented and the Church has a great responsibil- the Word of God's Truth in peace, discussed at length. The report in- ity to clearly articulate and defend safety, honor, health and length of cluded mention of some improve- its traditional Orthodox world days. The Assembly extended this ments to the overall life of the view, and to maintain that world same prayer for His Holiness Ser- School, such as the establishment view even in the face of pressure bian Irinej, for the entire of a Trusteeship Council to assist to conform to contemporary world Episcopate of the Serbian Ortho- the Dean in administrative and fi- views which contradict it, compro- dox Church, and for all Orthodox nancial matters. Further study on mise it or even seek to eradicate it. bishops, here and throughout the all matters regarding the School, world.Assembly Actions including its accreditation and fu-

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 6

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to place prominent a given been the within nurtured be must bers

- to - face as email, and Facebook

“little church” of the family mem- family the of church” “little others, the Orthodox Church has has Church Orthodox the others,

tion is more and more limited to to limited more and more is tion

Washington, DC, where, among among where, DC, Washington, that And family. the of building the

with one another. Human interac- Human another. one with

create a stable and loving place for for place loving and stable a create Advance Religious Freedom in in Freedom Religious Advance

from real quality time face to face face to face time quality real from

be committed to their spouses and and spouses their to committed be the Second Annual Ministerial to to Ministerial Annual Second the

computers quickly alienates us us alienates quickly computers

must work hard at their marriages, marriages, their at hard work must sembly welcomes the convening of of convening the welcomes sembly

spend on our mobile phones and and phones mobile our on spend

With regard to the same, the As- the same, the to regard With Parents example. by learning and

holy space. The amount of time we we time of amount The space. holy

one another, serving one another another one serving another, one

Cyberspace is often not not often is Cyberspace teraction.

m o r f n r a e l d n a r e h t e g o t y a r p s e i l i Christ. in life true the to ten

Christian way of life and social in- social and life of way Christian

church”, a sacred place where fam- where place sacred a church”, anity, and to lead all who will lis- will who all lead to and anity,

inconsistent with our Orthodox Orthodox our with inconsistent

and a school of virtue, “the little little “the virtue, of school a and and practiced in Orthodox Christi- Orthodox in practiced and

social media have created habits habits created have media social

tain our homes as a place of prayer prayer of place a as homes our tain Truth as traditionally understood understood traditionally as Truth

book, Instagram, Twitter and other other and Twitter Instagram, book,

must work all the harder to main- to harder the all work must faithfully proclaim and defend the the defend and proclaim faithfully

the misuse of the Internet, Face- Internet, the of misuse the

Essentially, this means that we we that means this Essentially, in which we live, to fearlessly and and fearlessly to live, we which in general. For all too many people, people, many too all For general.

speak prophetically to this society society this to prophetically speak family life as well as human life in in life human as well as life family

another? to activity one have the task, duty and calling to to calling and duty task, the have challenges to maintaining healthy healthy maintaining to challenges

es and faithful in the United States States United the in faithful and es from children their ferrying day, we enjoy also bring with them new new them with bring also enjoy we

Serbian Orthodox Church's Dioces- Church's Orthodox Serbian the of course the during chauffeurs youth. The technological advances advances technological The youth.

fathers find themselves almost as as almost themselves find fathers The Assembly recognized that the the that recognized Assembly The and especially our children and and children our especially and

How many mothers and and mothers many How school? souls of our people, our families families our people, our of souls

in church church in participation and church doctor. a from ca, a war is being waged for the the for waged being is war a ca,

by activities other than worship in in worship than other activities by the mother, perhaps with advice advice with perhaps mother, the than perhaps ever before in Ameri- in before ever perhaps than

their Sunday mornings dominated dominated mornings Sunday their safe, but is subject to the whim of of whim the to subject is but safe, We should make no mistake: more more mistake: no make should We

many of our families find find families our of many child who has been born is not not is born been has who child

with a healthy home life. How How life. home healthy a with tion. Some even suggest that a a that suggest even Some tion.

ance the demands of sports sports of demands the ance tions in honor of this abomina- this of honor in tions

ing careful attention to bal- to attention careful ing womb, and hold public celebra- public hold and womb,

more hours each week requir- week each hours more child is viable outside the the outside viable is child

their homes for more and and more for homes their ment of birth, even when the the when even birth, of ment

point, taking children out of of out children taking point, tion at any time up to the mo- the to up time any at tion

athletics have become a focal focal a become have athletics now advocate the right to abor- to right the advocate now

day and each week. Children’s Children’s week. each and day even some state legislatures, legislatures, state some even

more and more hours each each hours more and more “legal, safe and rare,” many, many, rare,” and safe “legal,

and into the workplace for for workplace the into and once said that it should be be should it that said once

both parents out of the home home the of out parents both proponents of legal abortion abortion legal of proponents

Economic concerns often take take often concerns Economic personal convenience. Where Where convenience. personal

cases committed for reasons of of reasons for committed cases

present for us. for present tion is in the vast majority of of majority vast the in is tion

tunities those demands can can demands those tunities As such, the grave sin of abor- of sin grave the such, As

ing the sacred spiritual oppor- spiritual sacred the ing

life can prevent us from see- from us prevent can life ed.

dane demands and tasks of of tasks and demands dane harmful and should be avoid- be should and harmful

family. Too often the mun- the often Too family. created in the image of God is is God of image the in created

siblings, and within the entire entire the within and siblings, and edify the human person as as person human the edify and

ents and children, between between children, and ents mation which does not lift up up lift not does which mation

relationships between par- between relationships form of entertainment or infor- or entertainment of form

quickly weaken such ties and and ties such weaken quickly Any Any stimulated. and tained

The demands of modern life life modern of demands The need to be constantly enter- constantly be to need

patience, nervousness, and the the and nervousness, patience,

ways creates hyperactivity, im- hyperactivity, creates ways . in

excessive time spent in these these in spent time excessive Joseph, father, foster his with

also be aware that the result of of result the that aware be also Mary, Virgin Holy Most the

Let us us Let kinds. all of indulgence mother, his by adult young

- self seeking pleasure a as and youth his in nurtured

promiscuity, criminal behavior and and behavior criminal promiscuity, Life of Way was he which in family a into born

mote violence, selfishness, sexual sexual selfishness, violence, mote Christian the for Struggle The was Christ Jesus Lord our even for

too many, but they also often pro- often also they but many, too overemphasized, be cannot life ly

not only dominate the time of all all of time the dominate only not fami- of importance The pressures. Christ.

forms of information media today today media information of forms new such from attack under ly mothers, brothers and sisters in in sisters and brothers mothers,

games, social media and other other and media social games, increasing- are home Christian the church family, their fathers and and fathers their family, church

Television, music, internet, video video internet, music, Television, and marriage it with and society, Holy Mysteries and with their their with and Mysteries Holy

is the foundation of every healthy healthy every of foundation the is Church's common worship and the the and worship common Church's

The institution of the family, which which family, the of institution The messaging. the in God with relationship

with communication by way of text text of way by communication with their by strengthened and ished

face dialogue is being replaced replaced being is dialogue face nour- community, church larger Life Home and Family Marriage,

express our traditional faith and not constitute any interference in revolutionary nationalisation of steadfast values in a contemporary politics, but is above all a reaction of temples and all religious structures context and freedom to practice the the Church to unprecedented abus- constructed before 1918, along with same. Bishop Irinej and the Rever- es committed against innocent peo- their registration as state property. end Dr. Vasilije Vranic, an expert in ple, especially our faithful people in This effectively means that the Gov- Law, will be participating in the north of and , ernment of is seizing this Ministerial. who are deprived of their basic ownership of the majority of all reli- freedoms and rights by restrictive gious edifices. This is being done On the Situation in Kosovo and measures. It is incumbent upon us despite the fact that the borders of Metohija to once again make our self- Montenegro at that time do not cor- sacrificing efforts to ease the bur- respond to its present borders. In this year 2019, when the Serbian den of our beloved Orthodox Chris- Orthodox Church and the Serbian tian brothers, sisters and children Today, secular Montenegro, where people commemorate 800 years of in Kosovo and Metohija, by offering churches and religious communities Autocephaly, the Assembly re- them our generous support in these are separated from the state, wants sponded to the most recent de- times of adversity. to adopt a law on religious freedom, velopments in Kosovo and Me- based on assumed autoceph- tohija, the cradle of our religious aly, which did not exist as such, and cultural patrimony, caused even when the Metropolitan- by the decision of Kosovo insti- ate of Montenegro was the tutions to impose 100% tariffs State Church in Montenegro. on all goods coming from cen- Back then, the legal system of tral , while permitting tar- Montenegro distinguished be- iff free import for goods from tween the property of the Albania, as well as other restric- Church, the State and the Rul- tive measures of . er. At the moment, the situation in This draft law was adopted by northern Kosovo is seriously the Government without con- threatening to become alarming, sulting and cooperating with especially for the poorest and churches and religious com- socially vulnerable population, munities, non-religious organi- which has no way to be supplied zations, non-governmental or- either with more expensive ganizations and experts, and goods from the south of Kosovo, most definitely without con- and no way to travel outside the sulting the Dioceses of the ma- Province and bring goods, such jority Orthodox Church. as food and medicine, even in smaller quantities back to their The Assembly calls upon the homes. If this unsustainable sit- Government of Montenegro to uation continues, it will influ- repeal its adoption, and to ence gradual displacement of work with the Venice Commis- the remaining Serbian popula- sion, churches, religious com- tion. munities and other interested parties, through normal coop- Discrimination based on the origin The Assembly respectfully voices its eration to draft a religious freedom of goods, which reminds us of the appreciation to the Ambassadors in law that is legal and just, and in con- darkest times in European history, Pristina of the United States and Or- formity with European standards. is one of the most serious violations ganization for Security and Co- of human rights. Coupled with ac- operation in Europe-OSCE, as well The Assembly of the Serbian Ortho- tion of demonstrative ignition and as the European Union, for taking to dox Dioceses in the United States of destruction of Serbian goods from a task and condemning the now sev- America is truly one in spirit and an few months ago, to which Pristina enth of the Orthodox indivisible part of our Holy Serbian authorities did not react, there has Cemetery in . Orthodox Church, constantly striv- been multifaceted deterioration of ing to remain steadfast on the Way interethnic relations and security On the Situation in Montenegro of St. Sava, as we call to mind the throughout the territory of Kosovo words of the Holy Apostle: “If one and Metohija with unforeseeable The Government of Montenegro is- member suffers, all suffer together; consequences. sued on May 16, 2019 a Draft Law if one member is honored, all re- on Freedom of Religion and Beliefs joice together” (1 Cor. 12:26). Ever The Assembly unanimously appeals, and Legal Status of Religious Com- mindful of the same, as we cele- first and foremost, to the United munities. Predicated on a previous brate together the 800 Years of the States of America, and to the Inter- Draft Law of 2015, instead of pri- Autocephaly of the Serbian Ortho- national Community, to rectify this marily focusing on the restitution of dox Church: truly, endowed by God, existential crisis. This appeal does seized property, it now prescribes a and treasured by the People!

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 8

9

two of our own young people to to people young own our of two Kate Thickstun Kate

priesthood and tonsured a monk a tonsured and priesthood

ishes. I hope we can send one or or one send can we hope I ishes.

Christ, in Yours

years old. He was ordained to the the to ordained was He old. years

atives of the youth from their par- their from youth the of atives

tian faith in 1958 when he was 24 24 was he when 1958 in faith tian

school!

people who attended as represent- as attended who people

he embraced the Orthodox Chris- Orthodox the embraced he

their families as you head back to to back head you as families their

talks, and excursions for young young for excursions and talks,

and the classics. Raised Anglican, Anglican, Raised classics. the and

Blessings to all of our students and and students our of all to Blessings

same time, there were meetings, meetings, were there time, same

ford, where he studied theology theology studied he where ford,

from around the country. At the the At country. the around from hands make light work! light make hands

ucated at Magdalen College, Ox- College, Magdalen at ucated

with laity from other parishes parishes other from laity with contact our church office. Many Many office. church our contact

was born in Bath, England, and ed- and England, Bath, in born was

great opportunity to meet and talk talk and meet to opportunity great time, there is a job for you. Please Please you. for job a is there time,

you know, Metropolitan Kallistos Kallistos Metropolitan know, you

important to our parishes. It was a a was It parishes. our to important one! Even if you don’t have much much have don’t you if Even one!

politan of Diokleia. As many of of many As Diokleia. of politan

outs, and discussions of matters matters of discussions and outs, unteer. There is a job for every- for job a is There unteer.

Reverend Kallistos (Ware), Metro- (Ware), Kallistos Reverend

- break meetings, services, with cessful than last year. Please vol- Please year. last than cessful

keynote speaker was the Most Most the was speaker keynote

Our days were tightly scheduled scheduled tightly were days Our make our festival even more suc- more even festival our make

astery in Libertyville, Illinois. The The Illinois. Libertyville, in astery

Resurrection Cathedral in Chicago. Chicago. in Cathedral Resurrection October 12. We need your help to to help your need We 12. October

Lake, Illinois, and at St. Sava Mon- Sava St. at and Illinois, Lake,

day, we attended Vespers at Holy Holy at Vespers attended we day, Serbian Festival will be Saturday, Saturday, be will Festival Serbian

Grac anica Monastery in Third Third in Monastery anica Grac

of the monastery. Later the same same the Later monastery. the of As you know, our own San Diego Diego San own our know, you As

States of America held at New New at held America of States

banquet on the beautiful grounds grounds beautiful the on banquet

Orthodox Dioceses in the United United the in Dioceses Orthodox hope to see many of you there. you of many see to hope

followed by a wonderful outdoor outdoor wonderful a by followed

attended the Sabor of the Serbian Serbian the of Sabor the attended through Sunday, September 1. I I 1. September Sunday, through

relics of St. Mardarije. Liturgy was was Liturgy Mardarije. St. of relics

In July, Fr. Bratso, Pdn. Paul and I I and Paul Pdn. Bratso, Fr. July, In San Gabriel Friday, August 30 30 August Friday, Gabriel San

the opportunity to venerate the the venerate to opportunity the

be celebrated at St. Sava Church in in Church Sava St. at celebrated be

sadors. Liturgy was celebrated and all had had all and celebrated was Liturgy

the Serbian Orthodox Church will will Church Orthodox Serbian the

world. They are our best ambas- best our are They world. tery where a Hierarchical Divine Divine Hierarchical a where tery

800 Years of the Autocephaly of of Autocephaly the of Years 800

semble has danced around the the around danced has semble were the events at St. Sava Monas- Sava St. at events the were

2019 Diocesan Days Celebrating Celebrating Days Diocesan 2019

tradition! Morava Folklore En- Folklore Morava tradition! Another highlight of the weekend weekend the of highlight Another

21 through 23. What a wonderful wonderful a What 23. through 21 missed! be to not event

person. in him hear to tunity

fabulous 32 fabulous Annual Folkfest June June Folkfest Annual available on our website. It was an an was It website. our on available

nd

was a privilege to have the oppor- the have to privilege a was

Our summer began with Morava’s Morava’s with began summer Our ers. We hope to make the video video the make to hope We ers.

deserved and it it and deserved - well is speaker

eral of our priests and parishion- and priests our of eral

What a summer! a What

an inspiring and entertaining entertaining and inspiring an

taining video of interviews of sev- of interviews of video taining

His reputation as as reputation His Church. Orthodox

Dear Fellow Parishioners, Fellow Dear

tional, heartwarming, and enter- and heartwarming, tional,

The The and Way Orthodox The books

Shoup, put together an inspira- an together put Shoup,

of the the of

filming assistance from Larry Larry from assistance filming

the author author the

and her husband, Alex Lopez, with with Lopez, Alex husband, her and

known as as known

prepared a delicious banquet. Kira Kira banquet. delicious a prepared

t s e b y l b a

de la Cruz and Sladjana Mellos, Mellos, Sladjana and Cruz la de

He is prob- is He

tara, lead by Jadranka Bozinovska Bozinovska Jadranka by lead tara,

35 years. years. 35

. As usual, our Kolo Ses- Kolo our usual, As . 3 August

rd Oxford for for Oxford

The highlight was the banquet on on banquet the was highlight The

Studies at at Studies

ning and preparing for the events. events. the for preparing and ning

Orthodox Orthodox

a huge debt of gratitude for plan- for gratitude of debt huge a

turer in in turer

our parish. We owe Kira Anthofer Anthofer Kira owe We parish. our

was a lec- a was

derful celebration of the history of of history the of celebration derful

duties, he he duties,

cration of our Parish was a won- a was Parish our of cration

his priestly priestly his

Anniversary of the Conse- the of Anniversary 50 Our

th th addition to to addition

Sabor. next the In 1966. in

THICKSTUN KATE PRESIDENT THE FROM LETTER

Serbian Orthodox Church to About the Serbian Orthodox one of three dioceses in the United celebrate historic Octocente- Church in the United States States with its headquarters in Los nial of Autocephaly. Angeles at the Cathedral of Saint The Serbian Orthodox Church in Steven in Alhambra, California. It The Serbian Orthodox Church is America is a US-based autonomous was formed in 1963 and has par- one of 14 autocephalous members church body in the jurisdiction of ishes and in Alaska, of the Eastern Orthodox commun- the Serbian Orthodox Arizona, California, Colorado, Ha- ion. The Church achieved auto- headquartered in , Serbia. waii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Ore- cephalous status in 1219. There are three dioceses in the gon, Washington and Utah. The Western Diocese of the Serbi- United States, 130 parishes, 12 About Church in monasteries and a theological an Orthodox Church will host a his- San Gabriel toric anniversary commemoration school. Many of these churches of autocephaly with thousands of stand as breathtaking representa- The Saint Sava Serbian Orthodox people from throughout the United tions of Serbo-Byzantine architec- Church is a parish of the Western States expected to attend on Au- ture which include unique charac- American Diocese and is located at gust 30-September 1st. The event teristic elements from the Middle the following address: will take place at the facilities of Ages. They are monuments to the 1640 S San Gabriel Blvd, the Saint Sava parish in San Gabri- timeless qualities of the Serbian San Gabriel, California. el, California. Among the digni- Orthodox Church and noteworthy taries expected to attend the cultural contributions of the Serbi- Tel. 626-281-9061 event are His Holiness, Irinej an people’s ancestry. (Gavrilovic), the Serbian Patri- About the Western American arch and Metropolitan Amfilo- InformationDiocese about the event is available at hije of Montenegro, renowned www.westsrbdio.org Serbian bishop and writer. The Western American Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church is Saint Sava SOC Friday, August 30, 2019 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM of San Gabriel 10 AM -11 PM Evening Festivities and youth Welcome Reception, Lunch, Clergy performances, Concert of "LEGENDE" Seminar group from Belgrade, Serbia Saturday, August 31, 2019 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Sunday, September 1, 2019 , Consecration of the 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Mosaics and , Lunch, Divine Liturgy, Banquet and program and Programdiocesan Assembly Saturday, August 31, 2019

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 10 HISTORY OF THE GREAT MARTYR PARISH IN SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

After World War II, the pop- of the United States following the Maxi- ceremonies were held on November 18 ulation of the city of San Diego in- can-American War and the admission of the same year. creased at a rapid rate, and the Serbian of California to the union. The Department of Highways society on this area experienced a simi- The city is the seat of San Diego of the State of California purchased the lar growth. County and is the economic center of property from the parish in 1962, thus San Diego is a major city in Cal- the region as well as the San Diego- giving the opportunity for the parish to ifornia, on the coast of the Pacific Tijuana metropolitan area. San Diego’s relocate to the Mission Bay Park area Ocean in Southern California, approxi- main economic engines are military of San Diego. On the recommendation mately 120 miles south of Los Angeles and defense-related activities, tourism, of a Building Committee appointed by and immediately adjacent to the bor- international trade, and manufactur- the congregation, the parish acquired a der with Mexico. San Diego is the ing. The presence of the University of two and half acre parcel of land on eighth largest city in Denver Street in Mis- the United Sates and sion Bay Park. The second largest in committee then en- California and is one gaged a local architect, of the fastest grow- Mr. George Lykos, to ing cities in the na- design the new church tion. San Diego is the building and the social birthplace of Califor- hall. nia and is known for Construction of the its mild year-round social hall began on climate, natural May 22, 1966, with deep-water harbor, groundbreaking ser- extensive beaches, vice officiated by the long association bishop of the Western with the U. S. Navy, American Diocese of and recent emer- the Serbian Orthodox gence as a Church, His Grace healthcare and bio- Bishop Gregory. The technology develop- first service in the ment center. The new social hall was population was estimated to be California, San Diego (UCSD), with the held on December 11, 1966, with the 1,425,976 as of 2018. affiliated UCSD Medical Center, has Sunday School room serving as a chap- Historically home to the Ku- helped make the area a center of re- el. February 18, 1967 marked the offi- meyaay people, San Diego was the first search in biotechnology. cial dedication of the social hall, with site visited by Europeans on what is With God’s help and the many friends from throughout Califor- now the West Coast of the United strong faith and will of its mem- nia attending this historic event. States. Upon landing in San Diego Bay bers, St. George parish was The Building Committee imme- in 1542, Juan Cabrillo claimed the en- founded on May 4, 1952. diately proceeded with plans for a new tire area for Spain, forming the basis On October 16, 1953, the par- parish home and a church building. On for the settlement of Alta California ish purchased a building site at 3265 December 17, 1967, His Grace Bishop 200 years later. The Presidio and Mis- Lincoln Avenue in San Diego. This Gregory officiated at the consecration sion of San Diego, founded in 1769, property was consecrated on October of the church grounds, and construc- formed the first European settlement 29, 1954. Groundbreaking for the tion of the church commenced thereaf- in what is now California. In 1821, San church building and the social hall took ter. Diego became part of newly independ- place on April 1, 1956 and dedication The consecration of the new St.

ent Mexico, and in 1850, became part George church took place on July 26 11

and 27, 1969. St. George church is a an academic painter from Belgrade, Vladan Trifunovic, in his greeting re- modern revival and continuation of Serbia, who painted the designs for the marks congratulated everyone on the the rich Serbian tradition in art and mosaics. successful and most joyous celebration architecture. Inspired by the master Sixty years of Eucharistic and of the sixty years calling everyone to pieces created during the Golden Age community life at St. George parish participate in the ongoing ministries of of the Serbian Empire in the Middle was marked with Divine Liturgy and the church just as the founders of St. Ages, St. George Church is an original Vespers Service on Saturday, May 5th, George parish did six decades ago. Fr. and contemporary work created by 2012, and a Hierarchical Divine Litur- Bratso reiterated those same words architect George Lykos. The beauty of gy was served by the diocesan bishop, adding that our goal is the same as that its design is an inspiration to worship- his Grace Maxim, and the local Ortho- of the founders, that is to build the pers and lovers of religious art every- dox clergy on Sunday, May 6th, 2012. church – the living church of Christ our where. St. George parishioners honored the Lord; the founders built the church of One of the outstanding fea- following families and individuals as bricks and mortar, and we today are tures of St. George church is its mag- kumovi for the 60th anniversary and St. called to build a living church of souls nificent mosaic, especially those cover- George : Fr. Velimir Petakovic and bodies, i.e. continue outreach and ing its interior. While painting scenes and Protinica Ljubinka, Predrag Mitro- mission work among our neighbors. from the and Feast Days in fres- vich, Dusko Martinovich, Velimir and This weekend, August 3 and 4, coes inside churches and monasteries Mira Jovanovic, Alex and Seka Kinach, 2019, St. George parish celebrates yet has been a Serbian tradition since the Dorothy Vukotich and Milanka Vlaso- another milestone in the life of our vi- 13th century, only a few churches used vic. Among the many guests present at brant community, that of the 50th anni- mosaics to depict these images. Be- the Liturgy and banquet was one of the versary of the consecration (July 26 & cause it was determined that frescoes first secretaries of the Church Board, 27, 1969). We chose this weekend as would deteriorate in the salt air of the Millie Medigovich. Recognized the closest weekend to the original nearby Pacific Ocean, Father Velimir for their exceptional example of zeal date of the consecration. Recognizing Petakovich hit upon the idea of placing for the Orthodox Faith and ministries God’s blessings and grace working in the small mosaics above the doors. of St. George parish were Mico Lukic, and through us, we entreat Him to Then he was inspired to cover the en- tutor of St. George parish for more continue giving us His wisdom, guid- tire church interior with this ancient than three decades, and the child and ance and strength in preaching the art form. He persuaded an Italian tile- adult choir director, Kate Thickstun. Gospel to our neighbors and growing works owner, Mr. Giovanni Nastrucci, Both of them received the Episcopal in the grace and knowledge of Jesus and the mosaic craftsman, Mr. Publio Gramata from His Grace Bishop Maxim Christ our Lord. Through the generosi- Cavalini, that this unconventional de- who congratulated both of them ask- ty and faithful stewardship of our pa- cidedly not so 20th century idea was ing them to continue their ministries rishioners, among them, Simo and Lju- possible. The finest compositions of at St. George with the hope that others bica Gregovich and Simo, Savka, Eli Serbian medieval iconography are ex- would emulate their example. and Peter Dopudja, we now continue pressed in the work of Stevan Cukich, The Church Board president, the renovation of our beautiful church

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 12

13

ful that he decided to have the whole whole the have to decided he that ful

of blue tiles and two bell towers with with towers bell two and tiles blue of

”. Son and Cavallini Publio by wooden doors. These were so beauti- so were These doors. wooden

Byzantine style building with a dome dome a with building style Byzantine

shipped o Tijuana ands then installed installed then ands Tijuana o shipped crafted - hand the above installed

- Serbian beautiful a built who Lykos,

in his workshop there. They were were They there. workshop his in be to panels mosaic for contracted

It says, “The architect was George George was architect “The says, It

ed the tile and fabricated the pictures pictures the fabricated and tile the ed air, salt the to up stand not would es

2009. in Church George St. on piece of Mexico City, provid- City, Mexico of Italianos saicos Church- Serbian in used tional

SITES IN SAN DIEGO, CA CA DIEGO, SAN IN SITES featured a a featured Giovanni Nastrucci, a principal in in principal a Nastrucci, Giovanni tradi- the that fearing Petakovich), Mo-

A GUIDE TO SELECTED MOSAIC MOSAIC SELECTED TO GUIDE A church interior covered with mosaics. mosaics. with covered interior church Velimir (Father priest The mosaics.

2019. SPRING CHURCH. THE

CLEAN THE MOSAIC INSIDE INSIDE MOSAIC THE CLEAN

GEORGE PARISH VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEERS PARISH GEORGE

DEACON PAUL AND SAINT SAINT AND PAUL DEACON

humbly we Lord, our of Vineyard the

were:

God. of People called the in serve still who those For eternal. be

who have served at the Holy Altar Altar Holy the at served have who

ders, including the laity as such, i.e., as as i.e., such, as laity the including ders, memory their that pray we paradise,

parish with six priests. Those priests priests Those priests. six with parish

munity with all its members and or- and members its all with munity entered have who those For

In our 60 years, God has blessed this this blessed has God years, 60 our In

the area; and the presence of the com- the of presence the and area; the Present).

our Spiritual Leaders: Leaders: Spiritual our

munion with the other Churches in in Churches other the with munion - (2007 Krsic Bratso Bratislav Fr.

In Honor and Memory of of Memory and Honor In

(direct or indirect) of the bishop; com- bishop; the of indirect) or (direct and 2007), - (1986 Draskovic Bozidar

lowing conditions: the presidency presidency the conditions: lowing Fr. 1986), - (1978 Dobrota Milorad Fr. saints. the

ing that its vitality depends on the fol- the on depends vitality its that ing 1978), - (1964 Petakovich Velimir Fr. all and Sava St. Apostles, the by Christ

This parish continues its path know- path its continues parish This 1964), - (1960 Trbuhovich Mladen Fr. from taught as Faith Orthodox our ing

Guidance. and Blessing God’s ask 1960), - (1952 Dazgic Nikolai Fr. strengthen- also, while property, and

Mr. Mitrovich played a very important role in acquiring today’s church property and in building St. George church. As a lay leader of our parish, with many others who labored here, he has exemplified faithfulness to the Holy Orthodox Faith and our Holy Serbian Orthodox Church. ! Vjecnaja Pamjat!

In Loving Memory of

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 14

15

CELEBRATION OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF CONSECRATION OF ST. GEORGE SERBIAN CHURCH

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † Spring 16 CELEBRATION OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF CONSECRATION OF ST. GEORGE SERBIAN CHURCH

STATEMENT FROM EPISCOPAL COUNCIL

Regarding the Episcopal Council for Canada, Maxim of Western America, Constitutional Matters North, Central and South America, the St. Sava Irinej of Eastern America, and Kirilo ● Third, with respect to our current Serbian Orthodox School of Theology, Constitutional Matters and Draft Child Protec- of Buenos Aires and South-Central and long-standing (not new!) Consti- tion Policies and Procedures America. Any suggestion that the tution and related governing docu- Bishops of Canada and South Ameri- ments, we once again ask you, our

ca have been excluded from this dear spiritual children, to carefully To the Very Reverend and Reverend Episcopal Council is simply false. read our Statement issued on August Priests and , Venerable Mo- The St. Sava Serbian Orthodox 1 (https://serborth.org/ nastics, the Members and Parishion- School of Theology news_190805_1), which explains the ers of the Church-School Congrega- arrondation (limitation in territorial tions and Mission Parishes of the ● Second, among its many functions, scope) of the existing Constitution to Serbian Orthodox Dioceses in the this five-member Episcopal Council only the territory of the USA United States of America is also in charge of and continues to (decided by the Holy Assembly of supervise the work of the St. Sava Bishops at its meeting in May 2018) For God is not a God of confusion but Serbian Orthodox School of Theology and how this territorial arrondation of peace, as in all the churches of the (Libertyville-Third Lake). At the re- of the Constitution resulted in the saints cent Church Assembly-Sabor held in changing of our constitutional title, July 2019, a report regarding the St. which now reflects the de facto reali- Sava School of Theology was pre- ty of the actual territorial jurisdic- (1 Corinthians 14:33) sented and discussed at length tion of this document, the United Beloved Clerics, Brothers and Sisters (https://serborth.org/ States of America. in Christ, news_190728_1). The report includ- We again want to remind everyone ed mention of some improvements that the holy canons of our Church It has come to our attention that mis- to the overall life of the School, such leave certain decisions to the Bish- information continues to circulate on as the establishment of a Trustee- ops alone. One of those decisions is the Internet, related to the Church ship Council to assist the Dean in ad- changes to the territory of a diocese. Assembly-Sabor which was held in ministrative and financial matters. Only a diocesan bishop can propose July 2019. Out of our pastoral love a territorial change to his diocese and concern for our faithful Clergy Further study on all matters con- and only the Holy Assembly of Bish- and Laity, ever mindful of the Scrip- cerning the School, including its ops can allow and approve any tural adage, you shall know the compliance with the laws and regu- changes. We remind everyone of the truth, and the truth shall make you lations of the State of Illinois, its ac- recent territorial changes which oc- free (John 8:32), we state the follow- creditation and future, will be done curred in 2009, when final adminis- ing to liberate you of your doubt: by the above-described five-member trative unity was achieved. Diocesan Episcopal Council in coordination/ boundaries were changed (e.g. the The Episcopal Council for North, tandem with the of Bish- Metropolitanate of Chicago and Lib- Central and South America ops in Belgrade. The Holy Synod may ertyville was created and then abol- send a Commission to evaluate the ished), and all of these changes were ● First, as we clearly set forth in the School. In preparation for the visit of done by the Bishops and these “Statement” that we issued on Au- the Commission, the Episcopal Coun- changes then automatically became gust 1, 2019 (https://serborth.org/ cil is consulting educational, legal, part of our Constitution. Those terri- news_190805_1), the Episcopal financial and other relevant experts torial changes were not done by a Council of the Serbian Orthodox to objectively assess the School with- vote at the Church Assembly—Sabor, Church for North, Central and South out any pre-conceived agenda, so but were proposed by the affected America continues to exist and is that the Episcopal Council can make Bishops and were then approved by comprised of the following Bishops: authoritative recommendations to decisions of the Holy Assembly of Longin of New Gracanica- the Holy Synod. Bishops. Midwestern American, Mitrophan of

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 18

19

the Episcopal Council and the Central Central the and Council Episcopal the choice no has Council Episcopal the America Eastern of Bishop IRINEJ,

purpose of this committee is to advise advise to is committee this of purpose however, – Privilege Penitent - Priest America Western of Bishop MAXIM,

fronts in the United States. The sole sole The States. United the in fronts the of abolition/erosion the by bled Midwestern America Midwestern

- Gracanica New of Bishop LONGIN, legal systems that our Church con- Church our that systems legal trou- greatly is Council Episcopal The

Christ, before intercessors Your

to the risks imposed by the multiple multiple the by imposed risks the to

op canonically permissible responses responses permissible canonically op situations. abuse child all. with dialogue open

their time!) to identify and help devel- help and identify to time!) their in privilege Penitent - Priest the ed dom, we continue to embrace that that embrace to continue we dom,

ask our lawyers (who volunteer all of of all volunteer (who lawyers our ask erod- further also will rulings judicial on a path towards the Heavenly King- Heavenly the towards path a on

Compliance Committee, we regularly regularly we Committee, Compliance that expect we and Privilege Penitent the people of God in history moving moving history in God of people the

With respect to the Legal Risk and and Risk Legal the to respect With - Priest the abolishing considering ocesan Bishops. As the community of of community the As Bishops. ocesan

also are States US more many that told scribed above directly to us, your Di- your us, to directly above scribed

the course of the confession. We are are We confession. the of course the USA. the in institutions comment on any of the issues de- issues the of any on comment

es, parishes, monasteries and other other and monasteries parishes, es, during gained knowledge to limited any and all concerns, suggestions or or suggestions concerns, all and any

lestation of a minor, including but not not but including minor, a of lestation request to help us protect our Dioces- our protect us help to request our Clergy and Laity to communicate communicate to Laity and Clergy our

because these committees work at our our at work committees these because mo- sexual of knowledge any report Orthodox in character. We again invite invite again We character. in Orthodox

committees is unfair and unethical, unethical, and unfair is committees immediately to required now are etc) - non totally and

gy (Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant, Protestant, Catholic, (Orthodox, gy on the members of any of our expert expert our of any of members the on ethos and, in essence is a mainstay, of of mainstay, a is essence in and, ethos

stantiated, and unattributed attacks attacks unattributed and stantiated, cler- all States, these in that, is means Moreover, a petition is a mirror of the the of mirror a is petition a Moreover,

ished. In plain language what that that what language plain In ished. surance and other experts. Unsub- experts. other and surance of our Serbian Orthodox Church. Church. Orthodox Serbian our of

Penitent Privilege” has been abol- been has Privilege” Penitent work with financial, educational, in- educational, financial, with work hierarchical structure structure hierarchical - church and ings

US States, the once the States, US legal experts, but we also regularly regularly also we but experts, legal - “Priest sacred - contradiction to canons, laws, teach- laws, canons, to contradiction

Sabor, mention was made that many many that made was mention Sabor, perts we consult are not limited to to limited not are consult we perts Holy Community of God is in direct direct in is God of Community Holy

cational safety presentation at the the at presentation safety cational ish issues on a regular basis. The ex- The basis. regular a on issues ish “petitioning” of any kind within the the within kind any of “petitioning”

the Episcopal Council. During the edu- the During Council. Episcopal the tral/national, diocesan and local par- local and diocesan tral/national, We further remind you that that you remind further We

not yet been promulgated/adopted by by promulgated/adopted been yet not matter experts in dealing with cen- with dealing in experts matter

dures are still in draft form and have have and form draft in still are dures - subject many of expertise the seek

information. contact your

These enhanced policies and proce- and policies enhanced These world, but it is not of this world”, we we world”, this of not is it but world,

the petition, of your signature and of of and signature your of petition, the

Knowing that the Church “is in the the in “is Church the that Knowing

put forth, nor the intended end use of of use end intended the nor forth, put

policies and procedures. and policies

knowledge of the “facts”, which are are which “facts”, the of knowledge

in enhancing our current Diocesan Diocesan current our enhancing in nored.

or where you do not have personal personal have not do you where or

ing with insurance and legal experts experts legal and insurance with ing wholly unfounded and should be ig- be should and unfounded wholly

article (or a posting, or a document), document), a or posting, a (or article

The Episcopal Council has been work- been has Council Episcopal The Risk and Compliance Committee, are are Committee, Compliance and Risk

not know the name of the author of an an of author the of name the know not

sexual molestation and abuse claims. claims. abuse and molestation sexual committees, particularly the Legal Legal the particularly committees,

signing your own name where you do do you where name own your signing

tions and caselaw concerning child child concerning caselaw and tions Central Council and their working working their and Council Central

forbid, forbid, - God or, circulating AVOID ●

State and Federal legislation, regula- legislation, Federal and State attacking the Episcopal Council, the the Council, Episcopal the attacking

tions, as a direct response to new new to response direct a as tions, petitions” petitions” - “e and “postings” internet

and signatories; becoming from

gious organizations and denomina- and organizations gious Last, the unsigned and anonymous anonymous and unsigned the Last, ●

petitions”, and and petitions”, - "e and “postings” net

reli- many by implemented and oped

intended inter- intended - ill and deceptive these

Petitions” - “E and “Postings” Internet devel- being are that procedures and

REFRAIN from falling victim to to victim falling from REFRAIN ●

policies protection child on was tation

to: Sava Saint of children

law. US to change and velopment presen- the of focus The Dioceses. USA

Therefore, we call on you, the faithful faithful the you, on call we Therefore,

respond and deal with this tragic de- tragic this with deal and respond three our including USA, the in tions

continuing. and progress in still Serbian Orthodox Hierarchs should should Hierarchs Orthodox Serbian organiza- religious all facing issues ity

House of God, which is the Church, is is Church, the is which God, of House as we how on Confession), of Mystery liabil- current the on Laity and Clergy

House of God, but the building of the the of building the but God, of House Holy the have which nominations for presentation safety educational

the Church of Christ, we are in the the in are we Christ, of Church the de- Christian other and jurisdictions an was there 2019, July in Sabor — bly

they spend protecting our Church! As As Church! our protecting spend they Christian Orthodox sister our from Fourth, at the recent Church Assem- Church recent the at Fourth, ●

yers for the countless volunteer hours hours volunteer countless the for yers as well (as laity and clergy Orthodox

attacked, we must all thank our law- our thank all must we attacked, Serbian own our from proposals crete Procedures

the United States. Rather than being being than Rather States. United the con- receiving to forward look and and Policies Protection Child Draft

es of the Serbian Orthodox Church in in Church Orthodox Serbian the of es invited have We response. Christian

Clergy, Laity, and assets of the Dioces- the of assets and Laity, Clergy, Orthodox correct canonically and ent documents. governing ed

actions that will protect the Bishops, Bishops, the protect will that actions coher- a develop must we and change relat- and Constitution our regarding

Council with regard to strategies and and strategies to regard with Council tragic this with terms to come to but place taken has what exactly is That

† SAINT GEORGE CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2019

DECEMBER 2019

Wednesday 4 The entry of the Most Holy Lady Theotokos into the temple

Thursday 19 St. the Wonderwork- er of Myra in Lycia

SEPTEMBER 2019 Sunday 8 Sunday School begins Wednesday 11 Beheading St. John The Bap- tist

Saturday 21 Nativity (Theotokos) Sunday 22 Kolo Slava

Friday 27 The Universal Elevation of the Cross of the Lord (fast)

OCTOBER 2019 Saturday 12 San Diego Serbian Festival Monday 14 Protection of Our Most Holy Lady, the Mother of God Thursday 17 Sts. and Helena

Frid.– Sat. 18-19 Opolo Wine Harvest Festival

Thursday 31 Evangelist Luke NOVEMBER 2019

Saturday 2 Memorial Saturday Sunday 17 Stewardship Sunday Saturday 23 Cevap Challenge Deadlines for submitting articles for THE VOICE: Wednesday 27 begins February 10th (1st quarter) August 10th (3rd quarter) May 10th (2nd quarter) November 10th (4th quarter) Saturday 30 Venerable Sebastien

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

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 20

21

Church of Christ, first, is not sus- not is first, Christ, of Church

3:6).

unbelieving kingdom of Ahab. Ahab. of kingdom unbelieving

heights of the heavens, for the the for heavens, the of heights

Isaac and the God of Jacob” (Exodus (Exodus Jacob” of God the and Isaac

ful Prophet Elijah than to the entire entire the to than Elijah Prophet ful

tains”, i.e., in the the in i.e., tains”,

of Abraham, the God of of God the Abraham, of

the top of the moun- the of top the

“I am the God God the am “I chosen. Savior. the God, recognize earth the Let is truly established “in “in established truly is

ther the God of the the of God the ther the house of the Lord Lord the of house the Let the firmament, its Representative see, Representative its firmament, the Let

Mountain or height: height: or Mountain God of many but ra- but many of God Truth. Divine the men, to and earth To

God is not called the the called not is God

The glow of humanity, to reveal to heaven, to reveal to humanity, of glow The

day.

rays. sweet rays, Jubilant

pletely clear for us to- us for clear pletely end. the

released, now rays, Abundant

much more is it com- it is more much Cross of the Lord until until Lord the of Cross

pensed Jews before Christ, so so Christ, before Jews

mained beneath the the beneath mained

to be mysterious to the the to mysterious be to From which, to the world, a little at a time dis- time a at little a world, the to which, From

of the Lord and re- and Lord the of

prophecy could seem seem could prophecy

tained

reclined on the bosom bosom the on reclined

However ,much of this this of ,much However

The Light, for a long time, which in Himself con- Himself in which time, long a for Light, The

, for he he for , Love John Jews;

to the Church of Christ. Christ. of Church the to

bor;

be slain by the the by slain be his prophecy pertains pertains prophecy his T

Dispels the thick darkness, and illuminated Ta- illuminated and darkness, thick the Dispels

Lord, being the first to to first the being Lord,

released He Himself, from light divine There,

2:2). (Isaiah it” down his life for the the for life his down

shall flow into into flow shall Victor. the Him of victory eternal the In

he was the first who laid laid who first the was he

hills; and all nations nations all and hills; confirm to followers,

the promise of Christ, Christ, of promise the

be exalted above the the above exalted be

And the faith of His His of faith the And

, for, with faith in in faith with for, , Hope

mountains and shall shall and mountains

manifest,

the ; of Son the James James in the top of the the of top the in

Transfiguration, to to Transfiguration, fess his faith in Christ as as Christ in faith his fess shall be established established be shall

The glory of His His of glory The the Lord’s house house Lord’s the he was the first to con- to first the was he

that the mountain of of mountain the that vigils, nightly Peter Faith Peter virtues: , for for ,

pass in the last days, days, last the in pass

Prayer, to go and to to and go to Prayer,

represent three main main three represent

“And it shall come to to come shall it “And

King ly

These three witnesses witnesses three These

of the Church of God of Church the of

scended, the Heaven- the scended,

About the exaltation exaltation the About

nesses are sufficient. sufficient. are nesses

There also conde- also There

HOMILY

Therefore, three wit- three Therefore, Sisar defeated

be established” established” be

here, where Israel Israel where here, T

Christ”. for “fool

nesses, shall the matter matter the shall nesses,

it, St. Procopius, the the Procopius, St. it,

live. God listened more to the faith- the to more listened God live. wit- three of mouth the at or nesses

the one and only righteous man in in man righteous only and one the

eous Moses, spared that nation to to nation that spared Moses, eous wit- two of mouth the “At Moses:

it not been saved by the prayers of of prayers the by saved been not it

but because of the prayers of right- of prayers the of because but of mouth the through Law the gave

to be destroyed by fire and hail had had hail and fire by destroyed be to

destroy the entire Jewish nation, nation, Jewish entire the destroy Himself He because First, them?

Thus, the sinful town of Ustiug was was Ustiug of town sinful the Thus,

on many occasions, He wanted to to wanted He occasions, many on of three before of instead disciples

people. and towns God man, Thus, nation. entire an than more the all before Tabor on glory divine

Because of the prayers of one one of prayers the of Because man faithful a valued often God His manifest not Lord our did hy W

The Prologue: Hymn of Praise & Homily by Saint Nikolai Velimirovic Velimirovic Nikolai Saint by Homily & Praise of Hymn Prologue: The

CHRIST JESUS LORD OUR OF TRANSFIGURATION

tained by the earth but rather by Church of Christ? The Tem- the heavens and finally, one part ple of was inac- of the members of the Church (and cessible to the Gentiles un- now, a greater part) is to be found der the penalty of death. The in heaven, while the other part is Church, however, from the still on earth. beginning called all nations on earth, obedient to the Further, the Church of command of the Lord: “Go Christ is “exalted above the ye therefore and teach all hills”, i.e., above all earthly and nations” (St. Matthew human greatness. Human phi- 28:19). losophy and art and all the cul- This is the vision of Isaiah, tures of people as well as all earth- the son of Amos, a vision ly values represent only the low from afar, a vision truthful hills in comparison to the infinite and wonderful. heights of Christ’s Church. For it was not difficult for the Church to O Wonderful Lord, we give create all of those hills, while nei- You unceasing thanks that ther one of them, nor all of them You have made us worthy together, in the course of many to be the children of Your thousands of years, was able to Holy and True Church that create the Church. is exalted above all the Finally, the prophet says: what, truly, up to now, have all the worldly heights. “all nations shall flow into it.” To nations flowed if not into the To You be glory and thanks always. BECOME A FESTIVAL SPONSOR & VOLUNTEER Dear Stewards, Parishioners and Please, consider helping us by vol- our market, please contact us at 619- Friends: unteering and becoming a sponsor. 276-5827. First come, first served! There is limited space available. The San Diego Serbian Festival 2019 is The San Diego Serbian Festival scheduled for Saturday, October 12th. committee will be comprised of the Please give these items We are contacting you today asking following sub-committees: Publicity, thoughtful consideration. The key to you to your calendar and plan Kitchen, Set up, Clean up, Tents, Carni- success of any fund raising event is on participating in any way you can. val/Kids zone, Barbeque, Bar tickets, the underwriting of costs. You can tickets, Church bookstore, make a difference today by calling our Your help in terms of the prep- Serbian Market, and Security. This church office 619-276-5827. Please aration work prior to the Festival or year we would like to have all these make checks payable to St. George the day of the Festival and sponsor- sub-committees in place and in addi- Church and mail to: ship and advertising are all great op- tion we would like to train an extra portunities to demonstrate your love San Diego Serbian Festival chairperson for each committee. This 3025 Denver Street, and care for St. George parish and our will enable us to efficiently complete San Diego, CA 92117 Serbian culture and heritage. each task. Please, plan on attending The San Diego Serbian Festival our organizational meeting that will Thank You and God bless You! is a great opportunity for our parish to soon be scheduled and announced. come together and share our Ortho- The Mala Pijaca (Serbian mar- Fr. Bratislav Bratso Krsic dox Faith, culture, heritage and beau- ket) will take place this year with out- Protodeacon Paul Germain tiful church grounds with our San Die- side vendors. If you have something Parish Council/Church Board go and Southern California neighbors. to sell and would like to rent a table at

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 22

23

CELEBRATION OF THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST. GEORGE CONSECRATION CONSECRATION GEORGE ST. OF ANNIVERSARY 50TH THE OF CELEBRATION

GOD BLESS OUR 2019 GRADUATES!

NENAD AND NIKOLA ZIVKOVIC

David and Linda Zivkovic are proud to announce the graduation of their sons Nenad and Nikola from La Costa Canyon High School.

Nenad and Nikola were extremely busy during their high school years with playing Volleyball for their school, dancing with Morava, volunteering and participating in the Carlsbad Leadership Academy, competing in the A.C.E program (Architecture, Construction and Engineering) and taking college courses where they found their passion for Engineering and Computers.

Nenad and Nikola are attending Mira Costa College starting this sum- mer and will transfer to a UC to complete their Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Engineering. We wish them success in their future endeavors.

DYLAN MICHAEL LEFF Dylan’s first word was ball, which only made sense because he never tired of playing catch and practicing batting, even as a two year-old. His preschool teacher com- mented that He was her one student who actually shot hoops, while the other kids merely hurled the ball at the basketball hoop. When you adopt a baby, one of the joys of watch- ing him grow is watching his interests and abilities unfold without any preconceived notion of his talents and personality. No “He’s got his father’s sense of humor.” or “He’s got his mother’s gift for music.” Dyl- an’s gift for sports continues today with the completion of 4 years on the Point Loma High Varsity Tennis Team and their top-seeded singles player as a senior. And, as it turns out, he does have a gift for humor and loves music. This fall, Dylan will continue his exploration of his interests in math, science, history, art, and tennis at Mesa College.

LAZAR KATANIC

Lazar Katanic grew up in Pittsburgh, where he was heavily involved with the Serbian community and Kolo dancing. In 2015 he moved to San Marcos, California, and currently attends Sveta Petka Serbian Orthodox Church. He discovered his passion for coding in California, where the people and resources here helped him get a world class education at UC San Diego. With help from his community, Lazar finished his freshman year by landing on the Provost Honors list.

CONGRATULATIONS FROM THE SAINT GEORGE PARISH!

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 24

25

and he hopes to be able to return and visit in the future. the in visit and return to able be to hopes he and

fellow parishioners as he prepares to transition into the workforce, workforce, the into transition to prepares he as parishioners fellow

Daniel de la Vega. He is grateful for the support and guidance of his his of guidance and support the for grateful is He Vega. la de Daniel

and Fr. Deacon Paul, the choir, and his godson, Reader Seraphim Reader godson, his and choir, the Paul, Deacon Fr. and -

He will deeply miss the St. George community, especially Fr. Bratso Bratso Fr. especially community, George St. the miss deeply will He

Choir. George

Greek language, reading the lives of the saints, and singing for the St. St. the for singing and saints, the of lives the reading language, Greek

Outside of school, he enjoys weightlifting, cooking, studying the the studying cooking, weightlifting, enjoys he school, of Outside

ning to return home to look for work as an engineer. engineer. an as work for look to home return to ning

sian Saints in Burlingame, California. Having graduated, he is plan- is he graduated, Having California. Burlingame, in Saints sian

was very young, and they are parishioners of the Church of All Rus- All of Church the of parishioners are they and young, very was

neer, and Molly, a housewife. His family became Orthodox when he he when Orthodox became family His housewife. a Molly, and neer,

six children in the San Francisco Bay Area to John, a software engi- software a John, to Area Bay Francisco San the in children six

lor of Science in Chemical Engineering. He was born as the oldest of of oldest the as born was He Engineering. Chemical in Science of lor

Leo Grabowski recently graduated from UC San Diego with a Bache- a with Diego San UC from graduated recently Grabowski Leo

LEO GRABOWSKI LEO

etc. sells, - buy wills, trusts, planning:

Andrew’s legal practice will focus on estate, family, and business business and family, estate, on focus will practice legal Andrew’s

choir.

San Diego native, Andrew was baptized at St. George and sings in the the in sings and George St. at baptized was Andrew native, Diego San

George Serbian Orthodox Church and remains a member at large. A A large. at member a remains and Church Orthodox Serbian George

While working and attending school, Andrew was on the board at St. St. at board the on was Andrew school, attending and working While

company. services financial a – Group Financial Crest

A part time student, in 2015 Andrew founded and still leads Capital Capital leads still and founded Andrew 2015 in student, time part A

examination! bar California

of Law in San Diego in December 2018 and passed the February 2019 2019 February the passed and 2018 December in Diego San in Law of

Andrew Vincent Marin, JD graduated from California Western School School Western California from graduated JD Marin, Vincent Andrew

MARIN VINCENT ANDREW

Biology. Cell and Molecular in majoring Berkeley, California,

of his achievements. He will start college this fall at the University of of University the at fall this college start will He achievements. his of

field. Ivan also received the National Merit Scholarship in recognition recognition in Scholarship Merit National the received also Ivan field.

history bowl tournaments, and varsity cross country and track and and track and country cross varsity and tournaments, bowl history

extracurricular activities, including speech and debate, class council, council, class debate, and speech including activities, extracurricular

Besides succeeding academically, he has participated in a variety of of variety a in participated has he academically, succeeding Besides

year. this Laude Cum graduating Jolla,

Since middle school, Ivan Savchuk went to the Bishop’s School in La La in School Bishop’s the to went Savchuk Ivan school, middle Since

SAVCHUK IVAN

DORMITION OF THE MOST HOLY THEOTOKOS & EVER-VIRGIN MARY

The Feast of the Dormition, which is also sometimes called the Assumption, commemorates the death, resurrection and glo- rification of Christ's mother. It proclaims that Mary has been "assumed" by God into the heavenly kingdom of Christ in the fullness of her spiritual and bodily existence. Saint John of Shanghai & San Francisco explains nature of the Orthodox Veneration of Mary the Birth-giver of God.

“The Church teaches that their promise, solemnly led the little a stranger to sinful temptations.” “God Christ was truly born of Mary the Ever Mary to the Temple of Jerusalem; She alone is without sin” (St. Ambrose, -Virgin” (St. Epiphanius, “True Word Herself ascended the high steps and, same source), “while man will always by revelation from God, She was led have in himself something yet needing Concerning the Faith”). “It is essential into the very Holy of Holies, by the correction and perfection in order to for us to confess that the Holy Ever- High Priest who met Her, taking with fulfill the commandment of God; Be ye Virgin Mary is actually Theotokos Her the grace of God which rested up- holy as I the Lord your God am Holy (Birth-giver of God), so as not to fall on Her into the Temple which until (Leviticus 19:2). The more pure and into blasphemy. For those who deny then had been without grace. (See the perfect one is, the more he notices his that the Holy Virgin is actually Theoto- of the Entry into the Tem- imperfections and considers himself kos are no longer believers, but disci- ple. This was the newly-built Temple all the more unworthy. into which the glory of God had not ples of the Pharisees and Saddu- The Virgin Mary, having given descended as it had upon the Ark or Herself entirely up to God, even cees” (St. Ephraim the Syrian). upon the Temple of Solomon.) She was though She repulsed from Herself eve- settled in the quarters for virgins ry impulse to sin, still felt the weak- From Tradition it is known which existed in the Temple, but She that Mary was the daughter of the ness of human nature more powerful- spent so much time in prayer in the ly than others and ardently desired aged Joachim and Anna, and that Joa- Holy of Holies that one might say that chim descended from the royal line of the coming of the Saviour. In Her hu- She lived in it. (Service to the Entry, mility She considered Herself unwor- David, and Anna from the priestly line. second on Lord, I have cried, Notwithstanding such a noble origin, thy to be even the servant-girl of the and the “Glory, Both Now…”) Being Virgin Who was to give Him birth. So they were poor. However, it was not adorned with all virtues, She manifest- this that saddened these righteous that nothing might distract Her from ed an example of extraordinarily pure prayer and heedfulness to Herself, ones, but rather the fact that they did life. Being submissive and obedient to not have children and could not hope Mary gave to God a vow not to become all, She offended no one, said no crude that their descendants would see the married, in order to please only Him word to anyone, was friendly to all, Messiah. And behold, when once, be- Her whole life long. Being betrothed to and did not allow any unclean thought. ing disdained by the Hebrews for their the elderly Joseph when Her age no (Abridged from St. Ambrose of Milan, barrenness, they both in grief of soul longer, allowed Her to remain in the “Concerning the Ever-Virginity of the were offering up prayers to GodJoa- Temple, She settled in his house in Virgin Mary.”) chim on a mountain to which he had Nazareth. Here the Virgin was vouch- retired after the priest did not want to “Despite the righteousness and safed the coming of the Archangel Ga- offer his sacrifice in the Temple, and the immaculateness of the life which briel, who brought Her the good tid- Anna in her own garden weeping over the Mother of God led, manifested ings of the birth, from Her of the Son her barrenness-there appeared to their presence in Her. They could not of the Most High. Hail, Thou that art them an angel who informed them but be manifested: Such is the precise full of grace, the Lord is with Thee. that they would bring forth a daugh- and faithful teaching of the Orthodox Blessed art thou among women … The ter. Overjoyed, they promised to con- Church concerning the Mother of God Holy Spirit shall come upon thee, and secrate their child to God. with relation to and the power of the Most High shall over- death.” (Bishop Ignatius Brianchani- shadow thee. wherefore also that In nine months a daughter was nov, “Exposition of the Teaching of the which is to be born shall be holy, and born to them, called Mary, Who from Orthodox Church on the Mother of shall be called the Son of God (Luke Her early childhood manifested the God.”) “A stranger to any fall into 1:28–35).Mary received the angelic best qualities of soul. When She was sin” (St. Ambrose of Milan, Commen- good tidings humbly and submissively. three years old, her parents, fulfilling tary on the I I 8th Psalm), “She was not “Then the Word, in a way known to

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 26

27

ly at first, which evoked His indica- His evoked which first, at ly in one as and flesh, the to according

25); 25); – 18 1: (Matt. Spirit Holy the from

fore She favored Her Son involuntari- Son Her favored She fore boldness towards Him as His Mother Mother His as Him towards boldness

ing Mary’s miraculous conception conception miraculous Mary’s ing

might seem, were excessive. There- excessive. were seem, might Her Son. She reigns with Him and has has and Him with reigns She Son. Her

himself revealed to Joseph concern- Joseph to revealed himself

from labors and dangers which it it which dangers and labors from age, at the right hand of the throne of of throne the of hand right the at age,

pearance of the angel, but the angel angel the but angel, the of pearance

concerned for Him, preserving Him Him preserving Him, for concerned of the Last Judgment and in the future future the in and Judgment Last the of

Mary told no one of the ap- the of one no told Mary

and natural feelings forced Her to be be to Her forced feelings natural and stands and will stand, both in the day day the in both stand, will and stands

God”). of Mother the the Messiah were still close to Her, Her, to close still were Messiah the the Canon of the Dormition), She She Dormition), the of Canon the

Teaching of the Orthodox Church on on Church Orthodox the of Teaching consist The Hebrew conceptions of of conceptions Hebrew The consist adorned with Divine glory” (Irmos of of (Irmos glory” Divine with adorned

and the greatness of Her Son would would Son Her of greatness the and the of “Exposition Brianchaninov, tius beginning of Her greatness. “Being “Being greatness. Her of beginning

fully understand in what the service service the what in understand fully Igna- (Bishop grace” by pure made He the Most Holy Mother of God was the the was God of Mother Holy Most the

though full of grace, She did not yet yet not did She grace, of full though understanding, human to according The end of the earthly life of of life earthly the of end The

5 1). Even Even 1). 5 – 2:21 (Luke heart Her in pure was who “One Eve”). and “Mary

Him. with be to and Him

the Temple, and everything She kept kept She everything and Temple, the Syrian, the Ephraim (St. virginity”

Son and Redeemer, so as to ascend to to ascend to as so Redeemer, and Son

Him at the age of twelve teaching in in teaching twelve of age the at Him Her sanctified concerns, Her chaste

form what She had heard from Her Her from heard had She what form

Jesus advanced in wisdom; She heard heard She wisdom; in advanced Jesus made pure, thoughts Her made mind,

to labor all the more zealously to per- to zealously more the all labor to

pierce Her soul. Later She saw how how saw She Later soul. Her pierce Her cleansed Her, in abode Light

16:13). Being enlightened, She began began She enlightened, Being 16:13).

concerning the weapon which would would which weapon the concerning “The 41). Heretics, Against Homily an,

and instructed (Her) in all truth (John (John truth all in (Her) instructed and

sinful desires” (St. Ephraim the Syri- the Ephraim (St. desires” sinful prayer of praise and the prophecy prophecy the and praise of prayer

taught (Her) all things (John 14:26), 14:26), (John things all (Her) taught

by grace, She was not disturbed by by disturbed not was She grace, by She heard forty days later Symeon’s Symeon’s later days forty heard She

Spirit Who descended upon Her Her upon descended Who Spirit

immortal, but that being illuminated illuminated being that but immortal, 19). 19). – 2:8 (Luke Son Her of greatness

24:49). The Holy Holy The 24:49).

Mary became became Mary

high (Luke (Luke high

not say that that say not

power from on on from power

virgin. I do do I virgin.

clothed with with clothed

He left Her Her left He

cost She was was She cost

been born, born, been

the day of Pente- of day the

fore, having having fore,

Resurrection, on on Resurrection,

late; where- late;

in the day of the the of day the in

was invio- was

fering. Rejoicing Rejoicing fering.

while She She while

cuted and suf- and cuted

the Virgin Virgin the

Her Son perse- Son Her

He purified purified He

when She saw saw She when

ceived Him. Him. ceived

of a mother mother a of

pure, con- pure,

bearing the grief grief the bearing

ing become become ing

murmuringly murmuringly

womb, hav- womb,

(Phil. 2:5), un- 2:5), (Phil.

and then the the then and

ings as Christ Christ as ings

Holy Spirit, Spirit, Holy

the same feel- same the

Her by the the by Her

person) She had had She person)

ing prepared prepared ing

28). As no other other no As 28).

Virgin, hav- Virgin,

it (Luke 11:27, 11:27, (Luke it

purified the the purified

of God and kept kept and God of

power. He He power.

heard the word word the heard

rity in all its its all in rity

stood this and and this stood

manifest pu- manifest

Mary under- Mary

is, there is is there is,

1). 2 Her heart the sayings concerning the the concerning sayings the heart Her Christ where that show to as so born,

ostom, Commentary on John, Homily Homily John, on Commentary ostom, in kept and silence in listened also was then and also Virgin the purified

clothed in the flesh” (St. John Chrys- John (St. flesh” the in clothed now Mary silence, in suspicion dured He things. of nature the in hidden is

men, for which He had become become had He which for men, en- previously Having Him. of heard what purifies Christ also so hidden, is

salvation of Her soul and the good of of good the and soul Her of salvation had they that said one, born - new what illuminates lightning “As God”).

His Mother, but much more over the the over more much but Mother, His the worship to coming shepherds, of Mother the of “Praise Syrian, the

had concern also over the honor of of honor the over also concern had The shepherds. the to it announced Ephraim (St. Her” in abode and Mary

49). “He “He 49). – 12:46 (Matt. kinship bodily he host, heavenly the of multitude into entered and came willed, self

tion of the superiority of spiritual to to spiritual of superiority the of tion a with Christ, of Nativity the after and Him- He as and, descended Himself,

battle with the passions and are zeal- above all creation, visible and spiritual. ous for a God-pleasing life. But even Therefore, wishing to praise Her, I am in worldly cares She is an irreplacea- struck dumb with amazement in both ble helper. “Joy of all who sorrow and mind and speech. Yet still I dare to intercessor for the offended, feeder of proclaim and magnify Her: She is in- the hungry, consolation of travellers, deed the heavenly Tabernacle” (Ikos of harbor of the storm-tossed, visitation the Entry into the Temple). “Every of the sick, protection and intercessor tongue is at a loss to praise Thee as is for the infirm, staff of old age, Thou due; even a spirit from the world art the Mother of God on high, O Most above is filled with dizziness, when it Pure One” (Sticheron of the Service to seeks to sing Thy praises, 0 Theotokos. the Hodigitria). “The hope and inter- But since Thou art good, accept our cession and refuge of Christians,” faith. Thou knowest well our love in- “The Mother of God unceasing in spired by God, for Thou art the Protec- prayers” (Kontakion of Dormition), tor of Christians, and we magnify “saving the world by Thine unceasing Thee” (Irmos of the 9th Canticle, Ser- prayer” (Theotokion of the Third vice of the Theophany). Tone). “She day and night doth pray St. John (Maximovitch) for us, and the scepters of kingdoms are confirmed by Her prayers” (daily spirit with Him, as one who performed Nocturne). the will of God and instructed others There is no intellect or words (Matt. 5:19). Merciful and full of love, to express the greatness of Her Who She manifests Her love towards Her was born in the sinful human race but Son and God in love for the human became “more honorable than the race. She intercedes for it before the Cherubim and beyond compare more Merciful One, and going about the glorious than the Seraphim.” “Seeing earth, She helps men. Having experi- the grace of the secret mysteries of enced all the difficulties of earthly life, God made manifest and clearly fulfilled the Intercessor of the Christian race in the Virgin, I rejoice; and I know not sees every tear, hears every groan and how to understand the strange and entreaty directed to Her. Especially secret manner whereby the Undefiled near to Her are those who labor in the has been revealed as alone chosen

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 28

29

secration of our church. It was a glori- a was It church. our of secration

Anniversary of the con- the of Anniversary 50 the brated

th

5277 - 874 (858) 1

Stewardship Chair Stewardship

ish on regular basis. Recently we cele- we Recently basis. regular on ish

contact Tanya Starr at Starr Tanya contact

With love in Christ, Maja Topalovic Topalovic Maja Christ, in love With hundred families that support our par- our support that families hundred

please, details, For Currently we have over one one over have we Currently all, you for love and prayers my

Cemetery. yourself Saint George Steward. With With Steward. George Saint yourself

0248. - 666 - 760

Demetrius section of El Camino Camino El of section and implement new ideas, proudly call call proudly ideas, new implement and

days or I can be reached directly at at directly reached be can I or days

Two burial plots are for sale at St. St. at sale for are plots burial Two give from your heart. Participate, bring bring Participate, heart. your from give

to reach out. I am at church most Sun- most church at am I out. reach to

courage you to come worship, attend, attend, worship, come to you courage

out stewardship card please feel free free feel please card stewardship out

with such a care and dedication. I en- I dedication. and care a such with

announcement: Special ments for 2019 or if you want to fill fill to want you if or 2019 for ments

Bratso and our Parish Council serve serve Council Parish our and Bratso

stand with your financial commit- financial your with stand

have beautiful caring hearts. Father Father hearts. caring beautiful have

you would like to know where you you where know to like would you

unique and resourceful. The people people The resourceful. and unique

care for our own home and family. If If family. and home own our for care tion and prayer. and tion

Our parish is very diverse diverse very is parish Our

ship is caring for your church, like we we like church, your for caring is ship placed inside the church for venera- for church the inside placed

the ministry of our church. Steward- church. our of ministry the Relics of St. Sebastian of Jackson are are Jackson of Sebastian St. of Relics two. or

depend on financial means to continue continue to means financial on depend CA. Jackson, in Center Retreat the privilege to try Russian specialty specialty Russian try to privilege the

only monetary support although we we although support monetary only Sava Church and St. Sava Camp and and Camp Sava St. and Church Sava sides Serbian specialties we will have have will we specialties Serbian sides

shapes and forms. Stewardship is not not is Stewardship forms. and shapes Second week of Summer Camp at St. St. at Camp Summer of week Second . Be- . 8 September for scheduled is it

th

Stewardship comes in many many in comes Stewardship kitchen. It was well received. This year year This received. well was It kitchen.

the diverse specialties of Serbian Serbian of specialties diverse the

support.

to the Divine Liturgy and to promote promote to and Liturgy Divine the to

tude for your generous stewardship stewardship generous your for tude

en). The purpose was to invite people people invite to was purpose The en).

Please accept my most heartfelt grati- heartfelt most my accept Please

ja Mog Zavicaja (My hometown kitch- hometown (My Zavicaja Mog ja

Dear St. George Church Stewards, Church George St. Dear

Marija Milasinovic and I started Kuhin- started I and Milasinovic Marija

Inspired by TV show in Serbia Serbia in show TV by Inspired

encouragement. and port

Church Board. You will encounter sup- encounter will You Board. Church

free to approach Father Bratso or our our or Bratso Father approach to free

benefit our church and community feel feel community and church our benefit

If you have an idea that would would that idea an have you If

Parish. our of

participate in Liturgical and Social life life Social and Liturgical in participate

of our parish. Please get involved and and involved get Please parish. our of

to take the responsibility for the future future the for responsibility the take to

that possible. It is up to our generation generation our to up is It possible. that

grateful to generations who made all all made who generations to grateful

of the sacrifices made. I am the most most the am I made. sacrifices the of

tions. It was also meaningful reminder reminder meaningful also was It tions.

ous weekend of worship and celebra- and worship of weekend ous

Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. ever. and forever dominion and glory the belongs whom to Christ,

the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Jesus through glorified be may God things all in that so supplies; God which strength the

speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by by serving is who one as so do to is serves whoever God; of utterances the speaking

stewards of the manifold grace of God. Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is is who one as so do to is speaks, Whoever God. of grace manifold the of stewards

†

As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good good as another one serving in it employ gift, special a received has one each As

11 - 4:10 Peter 1 “

TOPALOVIC MAJA CHAIR STEWARDSHIP OUR FROM LETTER

MORAVA NEWS AND UPDATES FOR AUGUST 2019

cess!!! We had guests from Phoenix, information to come!!! Los Angeles, San Marcos, and Cleve- We are always looking for land! It was a great weekend and a new dancers ranging from young wonderful show. kids to adults. If you or anyone you Though the dancers are cur- know is interested in joining Mora- rently on their summer break, both va, please contact me for a member Morava Sr and Jr groups performed application. th for St George’s 50 anniversary cel- Our 2019-2020 season be- ebration. We are so happy to be a gins Thursday Sept 12th for our Sr part of this lovely parish and are group and Sunday Sept 15th for our excited to continue that legacy. I Jr group. Hope to see some new fac- wanted to take this opportunity to es this season! thank our church board for helping the Jr group get new costumes. Morava looks forward to the Sladjana did an OUTSTANDING job start of our 2019-2020 season and creating these authentic and beauti- dancing for all of you! ful costumes for our kids! Dear Friends and Supporters, Topli pozdravi, Morava has big things Cristina “Duki” Dukovich Morava ended its 2018-2019 planned for next year. We hope to Director, Morava Folklore Ensemble with a spectacular Folkfest! Thank travel and perform in Serbia and [email protected] you to all of you who made it a suc- Bulgaria the summer of 2020. More

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringFall 2019 30

Church Office Staff & Volunteers ______PARISH PRIEST V. Rev. Protopresbyter Bratislav Krsic Email: [email protected] PARISH DEACON Protodeacon Paul Germain CHURCH BOARD PRESIDENT Kathryn Thickstun VICE-PRESIDENTS Velimir Jovanovic & Kira Anthofer TREASURER: Milos Belcevic SECRETARY: Reader Nicholas Schrandt MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Vojkan Popovic, Vladimir Kezic, Dorde Petrovic, Kira Anthofer, Simona Trifunovic, Lisa Krsic STEWARDSHIP CO-CHAIRMEN Maja Topalovic AUDITING BOARD Miro Copic,Vesna Jovanovic, Dusanka Klacar TUTORS/VESTRYMEN Milos Lukic, George Skaljac, Nebojsa Rajkovic, Miro Copic, Radovan Borovic, Constantine Criss Dizick S.S.S. St. GEORGE CHOIR Velimir Jovanovic, President Kathryn Thickstun, Director CIRCLE OF SERBIAN SISTERS Jadranka Bozinovska, Sladana Melos MORAVA FOLKLORE ENSEMBLE Cristina Dukovich FINANCIAL SECRETARY Maja Topalovic PARISH OFFICE ASSISTANT Natalia Valenti

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Troparion of the Transfiguration (Tone 7)

You were Transfigured on the Mount, O Christ God, Revealing Your glory to Your disciples as far as they could bear it. Let Your everlasting Light shine upon us sinners!