sign in sign up
<<
Home , Alb, Kiss of peace, One true church, People of God

Eastern Life Official Publication of the Byzantine Catholic of Passaic

VOL. LI, NO. 7 JULY 2015

Bishop Kurt Visits Charles Borromeo Seminary Hierarchical Divine celebrated for seminary community A Personal and Vocational Reflection by Maximilian Mukerjee

n April 15th, 2015, The attended in . The Liturgy took if they had been Byzantine Catholic life was like in the Western . Eastern and the West- place in the seminary’s Immacu- their entire lives. Raymond J Mas- The character and manners of the ern sides of Our Lord’s late Conception Chapel at 4 p.m. A torberte served as , assisted by seminarians was so impressive: they ChurchO met at Saint Charles Borro- portable icon screen was moved in other area cantors, and ably led the were truly young men who lived meo Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. by Father Edward Higgins, Master more than 150 seminarians in sing- and practiced the teachings of I had the distinct privilege to attend of Ceremonies and of Holy ing the praises of the Lord. I felt like . These young men came from and serve at the Hierarchical Divine Ghost in South Philadelphia, I was surrounded by a choir of heav- all across the Liturgy which was celebrated. The along with helpers, and was set up enly angels. An extremely powerful and some were even from other seminary is an absolutely beautiful promptly before the Liturgy. The part of the Liturgy was when the countries. One young man had property, massive in expanse, and entire seminary was full of energy time had come for the chanting of come all the way from Singapore the beautiful Romanesque architec- and the seminarians were eager to the Nicene and the two bish- to study at the seminary! The age ture gave the place a very pious and experience a Byzantine Catholic ops embraced for the of . range of the young men was greater holy feeling where the study of God Liturgy, while the Eastern Catholic It truly was a powerful sign of the than our Cyril and Method- truly took place. The hallways were were eager to share our beau- unity, the two Churches coming to- ius Seminary, as they still had what beautifully decorated with artwork tiful liturgical practices with the gether in a symbol of fraternal unity: they called the “collegiate program” from a local artist who had donated seminary community. both sides of the , where young men enter the semi- it to the seminary in the service of East and West, uniting in a nary directly from high school. Our Lord. The general living quar- The Liturgy was an absolutely of true brotherhood in Christ. ters were kept simpler, but, none- heavenly experience. I was assigned At the conclusion of the meal, theless elegant and tasteful. to the task of assisting Father Ed- After Liturgy, we were treated to Timothy gave a final word of ward Higgins by instructing the a delicious meal in the seminary’s thanks to Bishop Kurt and the rest Our Chief Shepherd, Bishop seminarians in liturgical practice refectory. One aspect of seminary of the Byzantine Catholic priests Kurt, was the main celebrant of the and etiquette during the service. life there that was quickly noticed an for coming and sharing Liturgy, along with many priests and We were serving with eight is that they have the seminarians act our Byzantine Liturgy with them. In two deacons from the Eparchy of from the seminary. An is a as the serving staff! For the meal, turn, Bishop Kurt rose and thanked Passaic. The rector of Saint Charles minor ministry in the we were seated amongst the semi- them for being so warm and hospi- Seminary, Bishop Timothy Senior, which is the equivalent of our subdi- narians and had an opportunity to table towards us and hopes that we of Philadelphia, aconate. The acolytes performed as discuss with them what seminary may return in the future. Then, in a Continued on page 3

Bishop Kurt’s Pastoral Catechists Recognized—p3 Eparchial Summer Camps— Ordained in Reflection—p2 p6-7 Georgia—p8 Page 2 Eastern Catholic Life JULY 2015

I Lift Up My Eyes... Pastoral Reflections of Bishop Kurt David Danced with All His Might

avid went and brought rah and Barak sang a song of victory of the Burnette family. up the ark of God. And together, a duet. when“D those who bore the ark had Many of the great songs of the Old gone six paces, he sacrificed an ox We sing the Song of Deborah in Testament take place after a delivery stories when they composed and a fatling. And David danced our Matins service, as well as the from danger, as in the songs of Mo- songs to lift their spirits and enkin- before the Lord with all his might.” Song of Moses. Have you ever won- ses and Deborah mentioned above. dle their hope of a better life. These David, the mighty warrior king, was dered why we sing “When Israel But sometimes they sing while they natural geniuses invented new kinds also a singer and played a harp that walked through the deep sea, as on are in the middle of trouble. Jonah of music inspired by their faith. he made himself. His original in- dry land” at the Parastas? What sings a song inside the belly of the Even in the darkness of the twenti- troduction into the center of power does that have to do with funerals? fish. We don’t know whether the eth century, cosmopolitan compos- was because King Saul suffered from Well, that hymn was written to go fish liked the song or not, but it vom- ers returned to the shepherd boy on severe depression, which the scrip- with the Song of Moses at Matins. ited Jonah on the beach afterwards. the hillside singing to the Lord and ture attributes to an evil spirit, and These major songs that are recorded And in the , the three playing his harp. Igor Stravinsky his servants found the shepherd in the Bible we call “scripture can- Hebrews Shadrach, Meshach, and wrote a setting of 38, 39, 40, David to sing and play for him. The Abednego sang and 150, and called it “A Symphony music of David have been very hymns while of Psalms”. For some reason Stravin- sweet indeed to cure the depression they were walk- sky used texts, even though of the king. As an aside, when Jesus ing around in he was Russian Orthodox. Rach- walked on water it was on the Sea of the fiery fur- maninoff also turned to the songs of Galilee. The Hebrew name for this nace. the scriptures for inspiration. In his lake is Kinnereth which means lyre. In the great All Night Vigil (often called Some people believe it is named that of Luke, there the Rachmaninoff Vespers) there because it shaped like a lyre; but no are two of the are settings of Psalm 1, Psalm 102, one knows for sure. most popu- Psalm 135, the Magnificat, and the One thing that we know with cer- lar hymns in song that Simeon sang when he met tainty is that music and dancing and history. After the newborn Messiah, “Now you poetry have been an important part Zechariah gets shall dismiss your servant, O Lord”. of our religion since at least the time his speech back Rachmaninoff asked that this last of Moses some 3,000 years ago. The at the birth hymn be sung at his own funeral. first song that is mentioned in the of Saint John Did you know Rachmaninoff is Bible is when Moses and all “the the Baptist, he buried a few miles from our church sons of Israel” sing a song of victory can’t control in White Plains? He wanted to be after God drowns the army of Pha- himself, and buried in Switzerland, but the war raoh. Not to be outdone, Miriam, he bursts forth prevented it. Stravinsky is buried on the sister of Moses, picks up a tam- with a hymn one of the islands of Venice. bourine. All the other women get describing not This column began talking about tambourines and Miriam leads the ticles” and they are supposed to be only the birth the important place of music in our women in music and dancing. Mo- sung at Matins. of his son John, but also the coming religion, but the music of the Bible ses sang another song at the end of of God’s promised mercy in Jesus. alone has filled up the column. his life, in which he sums up a little The great musician in the history This poem has many musical set- There was no time to mention the history and a lot of theology for the of our religion, as mentioned above, tings and is called the Benedictus in thousands of musical settings of the Hebrews. is the warrior king David. In Psalm the West. And when the Mother of 151 (found in some ), David God meets her cousin Elizabeth, she by the greatest composers, and The next large musical production tells us that as he sat out on the hill- composes a poem on the spot, “My also in our tradition, the settings in the Bible celebrates the victory of side at night watching his sheep un- soul magnifies the Lord, and my of the by Rimsky- the prophetess and judge Deborah. der the stars, he made a musical in- spirit takes joy in God my Savior.” Korsakov, Rachmaninov, and Tchai- Her victory was a turning point in strument with this own hands, and The west calls this song the Magni- kovsky, nor the hundreds of the military history of the chosen sang songs to the Lord. The Lord ficat, and in our church we call it the Cantatas by Bach. It’s worth men- people in the Promised Land. They heard his singing and made him Velicanije. There is no doubt that tioning that the end of the Bible, the mostly stayed in the hills and avoid- king. In the Bible we have the Book the greatest patron of the arts in the Book of the Apocalypse contains a ed the plains where the Canaanites of Psalms, many of which mention history of the world is the Catholic number of hymns yet to be sung, held a military advantage with their musical instruments. Some psalms Church, and according to music his- hymns to be sung at the end of time, horse drawn chariots. For thou- come with musical directions at torians, the Magnificat has been set after the final victory of the Lamb. sands of years now victory often the beginning. Because they were to music more than any other poem “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God goes to the people with the more written so long ago, we don’t know in history. the Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice advanced technology. But Deborah what the directions mean anymore, and exult and give him the glory, for called the general Barak and told but they are there. The end of the In the past 2000 years, the Bible the marriage of the Lamb has come, him to gather an army for a great Book, Psalm 150 is all about music, has been the constant source of in- and his Bride has made herself battle. God intervened in the battle and lists trumpet, lute, harp, timbrel, spiration of musicians and compos- ready!” And after the seventh trum- when rain trapped the chariots in dance, strings, pipe, cymbal, and ers. The so called “serious” compos- pet, “The kingdom of this world has the mud. Deborah warned Barak (for good measure) loud clashing ers such as Vivaldi, and Bach, and become the kingdom of our Lord that the final victory would be to a cymbals. I quoted from this Psalm Handel, and Beethoven turned to and of his Christ, and he shall reign woman, and indeed, the opposing for my motto, “Praise him with the Bible for the texts of great com- forever and ever!” general was killed by Jael, a woman. sound of trumpets” because there is positions. Also the illiterate Ameri- According to the scriptures, Debo- a hunting horn on the coat of arms can slaves drank from the well of JULY 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 3 Bishop Kurt Visits Saint to our respective homes. The rector sent some As I rode home that evening I took the time to of the younger seminarians to assist us in pack- reflect upon the day, which had been absolutely Charles Borromeo Seminary ing our cars and it was now that I learned how glorious and blessed. It was very refreshing to Philadelphia, PA powerful our presence had really been. While know that there were still so many young people Continued from page 1 we walked, we were discussing the seminarians’ who were ready and willing to give their lives to thoughts on what they had experienced that God in such a profound and deep way. The semi- final gesture of gratitude, we sangThe Angel Ex- day. One seminarian without hesitation, enthu- nary itself was a very holy and peaceful place; claimed and a finalMnohaja L’ita for Bishop Tim- siastically expressed, “I want to be Byzantine!” I simply walking the grounds put one’s mind into a othy and the seminarians. Something else I found felt very honored and proud, while at the same mode of contemplation rarely experienced. The that stirred me to my core was that the seminar- time humbled, that I was privileged to be a part Hierarchical Divine Liturgy itself is a rare experi- ians and Bishop Timothy sang a traditional hymn of something that had such a profound impact on ence itself, lifting the soul to the heights of heaven for us and very specifically for Bishop Kurt. a person, especially one who was studying to be in a setting like that, being surrounded with the a future of God. After his explanation the beautiful singing and such a heavenly chapel. The At this point, the seminarians began to clean young man continued to enquire about the possi- seminarians themselves were the biggest inspira- up the cafeteria and we began a nice leisurely bility of bi-ritual faculties, or the permission from tion to me personally. I look forward to the day walk towards the chapel, to our vest- a bishop and from for a priest to celebrate when, God-willing, I am a seminarian like them, ments and implements and began to travel back the liturgy in two rites of the . studying to and serve the Lord.

Bishop Kurt with and servers at the Great Entrance Bishop Kurt exchanges the with Bishop Timothy

Deacon Lewis Rabayda and Stephen Russo Bishop Kurt offers the Bishop Kurt exchanges the kiss of peace with at the Little Entrance Father Patrick Welsh

Catechists Inducted into the Order of Saints Cyril and Methodius Woodland Park, NJ By Father Gregory Noga n Saturday, June 6, 2015, what began as Bishop Kurt presided at the celebration of the to receive a distinctive Medal of Saints Cyril and a somewhat cloudy day at the Cathe- Akathist Hymn to the and ever- Methodius on a blue award ribbon placed upon dralO Chapel of Saint Michael the soon Mary concelebrated by Father Gregory J. Noga, them by the bishop and also received a certificate turned into a bright sunny day as catechists from Director of the Eparchial Office of Eastern Chris- of Enrollment. around the northeastern area of the Eparchy of tian Formation and Father Deacon Nicholas Passaic began arriving for Catechist Recognition. Daddona of Saint Andrew the Apostle Byzantine A special luncheon was held in honor of the His Grace, Bishop Kurt, instituted the Order of Catholic Church of Westbury, Long Island. They Enrollees in the Chapel Social Hall. The Heri- Saints Cyril and Methodius to which the attending were assisted by Cyril Pinchak, SJ, summer pas- tage Museum was opened and a tour conducted catechists would be enrolled that day. The Order toral intern at Resurrection and St. Andrew Byz- by Father Jody Baran, Associate Pastor of the Ca- was established specifically to honor those men antine Catholic parishes, Long Island and Alex thedral, concluded the festive day. and women of our eparchy who have dedicated Wynnyckyi server at Holy Resurrection These ceremonies will be conducted at Epiph- their lives to the spiritual and educational forma- Church. any of our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church, tion of our children enrolled in the Eastern Chris- Following the Akathist Hymn, the bishop re- Annandale, VA, on Saturday, June 20, 2015, at tian Formation Program of the parish schools of 11 a.m. The third Enrollment will take place on religion. Many of the catechists have been in- cited the of Enrollment followed by two entrusting the Catechists’ work to God, November 21, 2015, at Saint Nicholas Byzantine structors from 1 to 50 years. Yes, one enrollee Catholic Church, Orlando, FL. has been passing on the Faith of Jesus Christ for One in the Holy thereby encouraging fifty years! What an outstanding commitment to the Catechists to remain faithful to Christ’s Holy Jesus Christ and the proclamation of His Gospel. Church. Each catechist was then called forward Page 4 Eastern Catholic Life JULY 2015 People You Know In Baltimore... In Jessup… At a recent meeting of the Catholic War Veterans (CWV) of Maryland, Father Conan Timoney was appointed as State Chaplain for the CWV and Ecumenical Meeting the Catholic War Veterans Auxiliary. Father Dennis Grumsey, OFM Conv., On Wednesday, June 10, 2015, Christian Communities Gathering (CCG) was appointed as Chaplain for the Saint Casimir Post of the Catholic War of Northeast PA held its quarterly meeting at Holy Ghost Byzantine Catho- Veterans. The State Convention was held at Ocean City, MD. lic Church. A Moleben honoring persecuted celebrated by Msgr. John Sekellick, Pastor, with Deacon Lewis Rabyada preceded the meeting. Topics under discussion included the traditional “marks” of the Church and plans for future ecumenical events. The meeting in the school gym- nasium was followed by a luncheon and fellowship there. CCG of NEPA is an ecumenical group formed under the aegis of the of Scran- ton in 1999 to foster efforts at Christian unity. Current members represent various Church traditions and , among which are: , Episcopal, Lutheran, Methodist, Moravian, Presbyterian, Army, Eastern Orthodox, Byzantine and Ukrainian Greek Catholic, Polish National Catholic and . The organization seeks ways to present a credible united Christian witness in and to the world, affirming commonalities and understanding differences while working together for the visible unity of the Church.

Father Conan Timoney and Father Dennis Grumsey, OFM Conv. In Cresco... On May 1st, seventeen students from King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, PA, arrived at Carpathian Village/Saint Nicholas Shrine to participate in a weekend “Spiritual Spring Break” offered by the Campus Ministry Depart- ment of the College under the Direction of the Father Thomas P. Looney, The Narrative Approach to Bible Study CSC, College Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry, and Father Eric This Paschal and Pentecost Season, the parishioners of Holy Ghost in Jes- Schimmel, CSC, Assistant Director of the McGowan Hispanic Outreach sup, PA, Saint Michael in Dunmore, and Saint John in Forest City, met in Program. The program included a welcome and spiritual address by the Jessup for an 8 week Bible Study program from Ascenion Press and Bible Father Michael Salnicky, Director of Carpathian Village. King’s College is a Scholar Jeff Cavins entitled “A Quick Journey Through the Bible”. More liberal arts Catholic college founded in 1946 by the Congregation of Holy than 15 parishioners, a happily large attendance, were guided through the Cross from the University of Notre Dame. For more information go to material by Deacon Lewis Rabayda and Deacon Robert Behrens of Holy www.kings.edu. Ghost, Jessup. All those involved learned the narrative approach to reading Scripture and how God has interacted with His people for our salvation.

Retreat attendies Making good use of Bibles given by Bishop Kurt

EASTERN CATHOLIC LIFE 445 Lackawanna Avenue, Reverend James Badeaux, Editor Woodland Park NJ 07424. Reverend Ronald Hatton, Associate Editor (USPS 165-600) (ISSN 0894-9786) Phone: 973-890-7777. Fax: 973-890-7175. Deacon Lewis Rabayda, Layout Editor Official Publication of the Postage Paid at Little Falls, NJ and additional Mrs. Diane Rabiej, Copy Editor Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic office at Bellmawr, NJ. Mrs. Maureen French, Circulation Editor Subscription Rate: $15.00 per year. ([email protected]) POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: News and Photo Services: Eastern Catholic Life E-Mail us at: Member of the Catholic Press Association of 445 Lackawanna Avenue, [email protected] America. Woodland Park, NJ 07424. Published monthly by the Most Reverend Bishop , Eparchial Website: Eastern Catholic Press Association, President and Publisher www.EparchyofPassaic.com JULY 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 5 Around the Eparchy Pascha in the Poconos… The parish family at Saint Nicholas of Myra Byzantine Catholic Church in Pocono Summit, PA, began their Paschal celebration with the traditional blessing of baskets on the Feast of the Resurrection and then completed their Paschal celebration on the Sunday of the Man Born Blind with a com- bination Paschal Fellowship Meal and Mother’s Day Celebration.

Parishioner Betty Stefura receiving the Holy during the Mother’s Day Divine Liturgy

The blessing of the Paschal Foods by Father Michael J. Salnicky, Pastor

Christian Fellowship and filled tummies lead to happy faces

Serving the altar is hungry work: James, Jonas, and Jessie W. need material as well as spiri- tual sustenance while mom , Mary, looks on Young Adult Marian Pilgrimage Sponsored by the Orientale Lumen Foundation Now Open to The Orientale All Lumen Ages Foundation, a “grass roots” non- Europe, will be the pilgrimage Chaplain. The Tour Direc- to and from Vienna is not included, but can be arranged profit organization that promotes Eastern , will tor will be Jack Figel, who has been traveling to this through the OL Foundation office. sponsor a Marian Pilgrimage to Slovakia, Hungary, and area for more than 30 years. He also successfully arranged Austria on August 7-18, 2015. Byzantine Catholic young the Ecumenical Pilgrimage in October 2014 that had pri- A registration deposit of $500 is due by May 1, 2015, adults, age 20-29, from across the US, are invited to par- vate audiences with Francis and Ecumenical Patri- with monthly payments due until August 1st. Only a limit- ticipate in this exciting trip to religious sites, churches, and arch Bartholomew. He is directly arranging events for this ed number of spaces are available, so register early to insure cultural centers of Eastern Europe. In addition to learning pilgrimage. your place in this wonderful spiritual and cultural experi- more about their “roots,” they will meet other Byzantine ence. Parents and grandparents of young adults might want Catholic young adults in Presov and Bratislava, and expe- The pilgrimage will include attending the large outdoor to consider this pilgrimage as a gift for graduation, or some rience the vibrant, growing Churches in that region. This gathering on Zvir Mountain near Litmanova, Slovakia other purpose, to help younger generations learn about pilgrimage is designed to provide those who attended the where an apparition of Mary appeared to several Greek their religious background in Eastern Europe. ByzanTeen Rallies, and are now in their twenties, with an Catholics 20-25 years ago. This year is the 25th anniversary Visit the website for more details, to download a flier or enjoyable and educational way to keep involved in the Byz- of the last apparition. It will also include touring wooden detail itinerary, or to register online. Click on the Pilgrim- antine Catholic Church. Similar to the seminary Concert churches of the Carpathian Mountains, visiting the cathe- age button at www.olconference.com. Or call 703-691- Tours organized by the OL Foundation, this pilgrimage drals of our , and traveling to the famous Mar- 8862 for more information. will also promote further direct communication between iapocs icons in Hungary and Vienna, Austria. young American and European Byzantine Catholics. Local transportation, accommodations, and some meals August 7-18, Father Andrew Deskevich, Protosyncellus of the are included in the pilgrimage package for only $1,995 per Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, and frequent visitor to Eastern person, double occupancy. Any who do not register with another person will be assigned a roommate. Air travel 2015 Page 6 Eastern Catholic Life JULY 2015 September 22-27 Love is Our Mission The Family Fully Alive The World Meeting of Families will take place in Philadelphia, PA, from September 22-25, 2015. This gathering will offer an Adult Congress and a Youth Congress for ages 6 to 17. The Adult Congress, for ages 18 and older, will consist of keynote presentations and breakout sessions that address the many ways in which families can strengthen their bonds, especially in the face of significant challenges facing the family globally in the 21st century. The Youth Congress will provide interactive programs designed for young people to play, listen, serve, build and embrace the mission of love in a fam- ily. Held every three years and sponsored by the ’s Pontifical Coun- cil for the Family, the World Meeting of Families is the world’s largest Cath- olic gathering of families. Each World Meeting of Families has a theme that ! ! ! ! ! energizes and enlivens the event while adding great depth of meaning to our understanding of families. The theme of the World Meeting of Families now now now now now –Philadelphia 2015 is “Love Is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive,” em- phasizing the impact of the love and life of families on our society.

registerregisterregisterregisterregister We are hopeful that many of our families of the Eparchy of Passaic will participate. Please go to http://www.worldmeeting2015.org for more infor- 1 mation and to register. Once you have registered, please forward a copy of your registra- 2 tion to the Eparchy of Passaic at [email protected]. Bishop Kurt is planning a special event that will bring together everyone who will be attending. The Eparchy will also be offering a partial registra- tion reimbursement to families who attend with children. If you have any questions, please e-mail Father Ed Cimbala at: [email protected] worldmeeting2015.org Eparchial Summer Camps 2015 At the Carpathian Village Pre-Teen Girls Camp Camp Sunday, June 28 Sunday, July 19 through Wednesday July 1 through Wednesday, July 22

The Camp Moderator is Father Richard Rohrer of The Congress welcomes Altar Servers Saints Cyril and Methodius, Carey, NC between the ages of 9 and 17 Go here for more information: Deacon Stephen Russo of Saint Nicholas, http://www.eparchyofpassaic.com/camps.html Danbury, CT will be the camp moderator Go here for more information: http://www.eparchyofpassaic.com/camps.html JULY 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 7 World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia “Do I Have A Vocation?” Yes! By Ann M. Koshute, MTS

Ann M. Koshute, M.T.S. is Adjunct Instructor in Theology at Immaculata University in Pennsylvania and ’s College of Maine. She obtained her Master of Theological Studies from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family at the Catholic University of America. She is a writer and speak- er, offering parish and retreat presentations on marriage and family issues, the , and spirituality. Ann and her husband, Keith, are parishioners of Saint Ann Byzantine Catholic Church in Harrisburg, PA.

he Church places great emphasis on pray- God – our vocation – is to love! The answer to enough to draw out our love! God’s love is made ing for vocations with good reason. In or- the question I heard repeated as a single person– present to us through the innocence (and cute- derT to carry out Christ’s mission on earth we need “Have you considered a vocation?” – is, “I already ness!) of a child, and that child draws us out of strong families, faithful lay people and, of course, have one. And so do you!” ourselves. The same thing happens when we care priests, deacons and religious to care for our sac- for a family member who is ill, or non-responsive. ramental and spiritual needs. There is, however, The specific way we carry out our vocation to She may not be able to say the words “I love you,” a part of any discussion of vocations that is often holiness and love is called our state of life. The but her presence, her vulnerability and her need left out: what is a vocation? This is an important states of life generally refer to marriage, priest- for us draw out love. We forget ourselves and we question to answer because knowing what a vo- hood and the (religious sisters desire only the good of someone else. Our vo- cation is will tell us who has one. and brothers). We can spend many more articles cation to love is enacted in the care for a loved just on the states of life, but the important point one – or fussing over the baby. Their vocations Before I met my husband, people would ask me is that each one of us is called to holiness, to be- are enacted when they provoke in us a response if I was married, or seeing someone. As the years come like God: to love. Love is not a feeling, but of love. This provocation comes directly through went by and my twenties turned to thirties and be- a decision to do what’s good for another. If love the grace and loving presence of God. yond, the question came with a twist: “Well, have were simply a feeling, we couldn’t count on it, be- you considered a vocation?” That really bothered cause our emotions change all the time. As per- We should pray for vocations every day, that me, I guess, because it felt like a reminder that I sons made in the image and likeness of God Who each one of us enacts his or her vocation to love was “alone.” But it’s actually a question based on a is Love, it’s possible for us to love even when as spouses, parents and grandparents, children, misunderstanding – namely, that as a single person it’s difficult – or when we don’t particularly like priests and religious, and single persons, regard- I should only consider the religious life because someone. The way we love each day is enacted less of our age or capabilities. How is God calling I didn’t already have a vocation. The truth is that in our words, our actions, and in our very pres- you to carry out your vocation to love? each one of us has a vocation, and it is activated ence to another. We do this within our families, at our . at work and school, at church, and in all of the The World Meeting of Families takes place Sep- encounters we have throughout our day. tember 22-25, 2015, in Philadelphia. The theme is The Catechism of the Catholic Church (no. 2013) Love is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive. Vis- quotes Vatican II, saying: “’All Christians in any Each of us is called to live out our vocation, it www.worldmeeting2015.org for information. state or walk of life are called to the fullness of regardless of our age or ability. For example, we Families from the Eparchy attending the World Christian life and the perfection of charity.’ All wouldn’t think an infant “has a vocation,” because Meeting with children will receive a registration are called to holiness….” The word “vocation” he can’t enact love in the ways we mentioned, subsidy. For more information about eparchial means a call, and this call comes from God and much less make a decision to do so. Yet, even the subsidies and a special gathering with Bishop requires our response. The call to holiness is our baby of the family is living his vocation by his Kurt on Wednesday, September 23, please email responsibility and task as Christians. What does very presence in the home. Next time you’re at Father Ed Cimbala: [email protected] it mean to be holy? Scripture says God is holy, church sitting behind a family with a baby, or see “Like” us on Facebook: https://www.facebook. and that we are to be like God. According to Saint a mom or dad with a baby in a shopping cart, note com/EparchyPassaicWMOF John, “God is love.” (1 Jn 4:8). If being holy is to your reaction. It’s only natural to coo, make faces be like God, and God is love, then our call from and try to make him laugh. His presence alone is Byzan-Teen Rally: We Are Family!!! Sponsored by the Eparchy of Passaic July 26-29, 2015 Faith, Fun, Food, Fellowship, and, of course, Family! This year’s Eparchial Byzan- Teen Rally will focus on knowing who we are as , by engaging in personal prayer, loving ourselves, building self-confidence, building good relationships with oth- ers, and learning how we fit into God’s family. An emphasis will be placed on how the Byzantine expression of Christianity experiences this understanding of family and calls us to focus our everyday lives on Jesus Christ. There will be a lot of fun activities, good food, a field trip, and new friends to be made by all. The Byzan-Teen Rally will be held at the Carpathian Village in Cresco, PA.

For more information contact: Father Steven Galuschik [email protected] Registration forms are on the Eparchial Website: http://www.eparchyofpassaic.com/camps.html Page 8 Eastern Catholic Life JULY 2015

Two Subdeacons Ordained at Epiphany of Our Lord Roswell, GA By Carol Evanko Photos by Mia McCorkle

unday, May 17, was indeed a , and . Since the assisted by Deacon Ed Kleinguetl Subdeacons Michael and James sunny day in Georgia and a repairs and to the church from Saint Parish have both recently completed their veryS special and joyous day for the were not yet completed after the in Houston, TX, and Epiphany’s al- studies in the Diaconate Program parish family of Epiphany of Our December fire, members of the par- tar servers. Also in attendance were at Saints Cyril and Methodius Byz- Lord Byzantine Catholic Church in ish came together Saturday and ear- Deacon Tom Gotschall of Saint antine Catholic Seminary in Pitts- Roswell, GA. It was the first time ly Sunday morning to set up a large Andrew Roman Catholic Church burgh. They are anxiously looking in more than 30 years that the par- outdoor tent and liturgical space on and Deacon Gerry Kazin of Saint forward to the day when, God-will- ish has had diaconal candidates. His the parish grounds to celebrate the Benedict Roman Catholic Church, ing, Bishop Kurt calls them to serve Grace, Bishop Kurt, called to mi- ordinations and Divine Liturgy. friends of the ordinandi. the parish family and community as nor orders Michael Paul Tisma and deacons at Epiphany of Our Lord. James Smith; both men received Concelebrating the Hierarchi- Afterwards, the clergy and parish Please remember both men in your tonsure and were then ordained to cal Divine Liturgy was Father Phil- family enjoyed a special luncheon at prayers. Axios! the orders of Cantor,Candle Bearer, lip Scott, pastor; Bishop Kurt was a nearby restaurant.

Mrs. Betty Smith, Subdeacon James Smith, Father Scott, Bishop Kurt, Ordinands James and Michael chant the Trisagion Prayers before Bishop Kurt Subdeacon Michael Tisma and Mrs. Rose Tisma, Michael’s mother

Subdeacon Michael Tisma with his niece, Carrie, and his , Stephen Subdeacon James Smith with wife, Betty, and sons, Tony and wife Diem, and Eric JULY 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 9 Mount Macrina Manor Breaks Ground for Renovations and Refurbishment Uniontown, PA

On April 14, 2015, groundbreaking ceremonies took place at Mount Macrina Manor, which is undertaking the renovation and refurbishment of the entire facility. Mount Macrina Manor was built on the grounds of Mount Saint Macrina in 1971. Expanded and enhanced through the years, today, Mount Macrina Manor provides skilled and intermediate levels of nursing care for the elderly and infirm. The 139-bed licensed and certified facility features a Hospice Care Unit and a state-of-the-art Alzheimer Unit. The holistic person-centered approach to caring includes clinical, rehabilitation, and support services such as respite care, physical, occupational and speech therapies, and pastoral/spiritual care.

JoLynn Meyers, Mount Macrina Manor Nursing Home Administrator; Sister Seraphim Olsafsky, OSBM, then-Provincial, Sisters of Saint Basil the Great; FatherLawrence A. DiNardo, Board President; Metropolitan +William, Archeparchy of Pittsburgh; Sister Susan Sisko, OSBM, Board Member; Sister Carol Petrasovich, OSBM, Board Member; Eric McRoberts, Architect, RPLS; Carmine Molinaro, Jr., Esq. (partially hidden from view); Martin Saunders, Esq. Board Member; newly-elected Provincial Sister Ruth Plante, OSBM, Board Member; Richard Dropik, Project Manager/Engineer, RPLS; Ted Stefancin, Sisters of Saint Basil Project Representative; Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick, OSBM, Board Member; Sister Margaret Ann Andrako, OSBM, Board Member; and Joseph Massaro III, Contractor.

WILL YOU BE P.O.P.E? (Part Of the Pilgrimage Experience)

WHERE IS IT? WHEN IS IT? WHO’S INVITED? Kraków, Poland July 24 – Aug 4, 2016. Ages 19-35

12-Day Pilgrimage with Airfare from New Yorka - $ 3,769 aMinimum 15 pilgrims required for New York package with airfare. 12-Day Pilgrimage Land-Only Package: - $ 2,419 (does not include round-trip airfare from your departure city to Krakow)

Byzantine Catholic Intereparchial Youth Commission Custom Itinerary

July 24th, 2016 Depart From New York July 25th Arrive in Europe, transfer to accommodations, and prepare for WYD July 26th Krakow City Tour, WYD Opening Ceremonies in the evening July 27th Catechesis in the morning, WYD cultural events in the afternoon July 28th Catechesis in the morning, Welcoming Ceremonies with our Holy Father in the evening July 29th Catechesis in the morning, WYD cultural events and Stations of the Cross in the afternoon July 30th Pilgrimage in the morning, Vigil with our Holy Father throughout the night July 31st Morning Mass with our Holy Father, pilgrimage back to accommodations Aug 1st Day Trip to Zakopane: Visit the High Tatras where Saint Pope John Paul II hiked and skied in the mountains and made retreats. Take the cable car to the top of the mountain where you can see four countries from one spot. Aug 2nd Day Trip to Czestochowa: Visit the Shrine of the Miraculous Icon of Our Lady of Czestochowa Aug 3rd Day Trip to Auschwitz/Birkenau & Wadowice: Experience the site of the Jewish Holocaust in WWII, and then visit Wadowice, birthplace of Saint Pope John Paul II. Aug 4th Depart Europe for home

First Payment of $600 due by July 10th. For information and reservations please contact: Very Reverend Michael J. Salnicky 570-650-3252 [email protected] Page 10 Eastern Catholic Life JULY 2015

Searching the Scriptures Father Jack Custer, S.T.D. The Mixed Blessing of Personality: Saint Paul

aint Paul may well have the these, Paul gives a complete account Saint Matthias, Judas’ successor) fore I will gladly boast in my infir- most recognizable voice in the of his background, his conversion and celebrating him together with mities that the power of Christ may NewS Testament. We hear his dozen and his mission. Peter on June 29. rest upon me. Therefore I take plea- , Sunday after Sunday, for sure in infirmities, in reproaches, in most of the year and his personality Paul was complicit in the stoning Paul’s ministry was marred by needs, in persecutions, in distresses, comes through them loud and clear. of Saint Stephen (Acts 7:54 -8:1) conflict with Barnabas and Mark for Christ’s sake. For when I am That personality certainly colored and actively persecuted the Church (Acts 15:37-40) and especially with weak, then I am strong” (2 Corin- Paul’s ministry for better and some- in Jerusalem (Acts 8:3). He seems a more popular preacher named thians 12:8-10). times for worse, and his own growth like a vigilante as he sets out for Apollos (Acts 18:24-28; 1 Corinthi- into sainthood involved struggles Damascus to arrest Jews there who ans 1:12; 3:4-6), whose eloquence These are not the words of a whin- with his own nature that are re- accepted Jesus as the Messiah. Paul Paul may well have envied (1 Cor- er. Paul’s illness taught him humility corded clearly and honestly for our never hides these facts. His vision of inthians 2:1-5; 2 Corinthians 11:6). and led him to understand the mys- encouragement. the Risen Lord on the road, his sud- tery of the Cross. It is certainly out den blindness, and his healing by a Every year we hear several selec- of the insights of his own suffering Unlike the , Saint Christian named Ananias in Damas- tions from Paul’s epistles in which that Paul wrote: “We preach Christ Paul talks about himself often. Born cus marked a sudden and complete he lists everything he has suffered crucified, to the Jews a stumbling Saul, a Roman citizen in Tarsus conversion. Paul immediately be- to preach (1 Corinthi- block and to the Greeks foolishness, (southern Turkey; Acts 21:39), Paul gan to preach Christ as fervently as ans 4:9-14; 2 Corinthians 11:22- but to those who are called, both (his Greek name) was an exception- he had formerly persecuted Chris- 33). From the comfort of our pews, Jews and Greeks, Christ the power ally pious Jew of the Pharisee party tians (Acts 9). we might be tempted to call Paul a of God and the wisdom of God. (Acts 23:6). He boasts of learning whiner, but his sufferings were real Because the foolishness of God is from the famous Rabban Gama- Perhaps too suddenly. The Jeru- and were accepted willingly as the wiser than men, and the weakness of liel in Jerusalem (Acts 22:3). He salem Church never really trusted price of spreading the Good News. God is stronger than men” (1 Corin- claims: “I advanced in Judaism be- Paul. Only the kindly Barnabas thians 1:23-25). took him under his wing (Acts 9:26- There are also hints of some other yond many of my contemporaries in sort of suffering that plagued Paul my own nation, being more exceed- 30). Paul’s experience of the Risen “By the grace of God I am what Lord (1 Corinthians 15:8) justified throughout his ministry. The scant I am”, Paul wrote (1 Corinthians ingly zealous for the traditions of my details suggest an affliction of the fathers” (Galatians 1:14). his claim that he too was an Apostle 15:10). This is no defensive reac- (1 Corinthians 9:1), an assertion he eyes (Galatians 4:15; 6:1) but Paul tion, no refusal of the challenge to Saint Luke records three of Saint makes repeatedly and sometimes accepts his illness as a gift from God change. This is Paul assessing his Paul’s speeches in his own defense, bitterly (2 Corinthians 11:5-33; meant to teach him a valuable les- strengths, his weaknesses, his radi- before a mob in Jerusalem (Acts 12:12; Galatians 2:6-13). While the son. “I pleaded with the Lord three cal conversion and how God has 22:39-21), before the Roman gov- original Apostles may have resisted times that this might depart from been active in them all. We are only ernor Felix (Acts 24:10-21), and this claim, the Church accepts it, me. And He said to me, ‘My grace the prisoners of our own personali- before Felix’s successor, Festus and placing Paul opposite Peter as the is sufficient for you, for My strength ties if we refuse to follow the lead of King Herod Agrippa (Acts 26). In twelfth Apostle in icons (leaving out is made perfect in weakness.’ There- God’s grace. Graduation Ceremony at Carpathian Village Cresco, PA

n May 20th, the eight mem- cluding Latin, Rhetoric, Poetry, and throughout the northeast includ- Eastern and Western Catholic tra- bers of the senior class of Holy Scripture as well as the usual ing New York City and Washing- ditions. Father Michael Salnicky, GregoryO the Great Academy cel- high school curriculum of math, ton, D.C. The Academy is operated Director of Carpathian Village, has ebrated their high school gradua- natural sciences, literature, and the through the Clairvaux Institute, a served the Academy as its Chaplain tion at Carpathian Village/Saint social sciences. All students must non-profit educational foundation for the past two years. For more Nicholas Shrine in Cresco, PA. participate in the sports programs dedicated to revitalizing society by information on Gregory the Great Gregory the Great Academy is a that include Rugby and Soccer as returning to the sources of culture. Academy or the Clairvaux Institute private Catholic boarding school well as the music and theatrical pro- Its students include Eastern and go to clairvauxinstitute.org or to for young men grades nine through grams. Perhaps they are most well Western Catholics and the spiritual gregorythegreatacademy.org. twelve that offers a classical educa- recognized for their excellent jug- formation program includes a daily tion in the Catholic tradition in- gling troupe that regularly performs prayer life with services from both JULY 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 11

Catechetical Reflections Father Robert F. Slesinski, Ph.D. OMG: A Shout in the Street? Installment 6 of 6

f there has been a certain common charac- But his fame in world history is precisely his the inner impulse of his mind toward truth hold teristic of the articles to date of this column, literary—philosophical—work of art, his Conso- sway. In his own words, it Iis possibly the interweavement of philosophy lations in which this patrician agonizes with his with poetry. No greater authority on this mat- God through a personified Lady Philosophy over Whoever deeply searches out the truth ter probably is there than Saint Thomas Aquinas his fate in life—having been put under house ar- And will not be deceived by paths untrue, (1225–1274) himself, who pronounced the fol- rest (at best) only to be later executed. Boethius Shall turn unto himself his inward gaze, lowing judgment (in his Commentary on Aris- directly asks how evil can exist in a world gov- Shall bring his wandering thoughts in circle home totle’s metaphysics): “The reason, however, why erned by God and how can there be true hap- And teach his heart that what it seeks abroad the philosopher may be likened to the poet is piness in face of injustice and the fickleness of It holds in its own treasure chests within… this: both are concerned with the marvelous.” fortune and fame. Under the guidance of Lady The seed of truth lies hidden deep within, His judgment on this matter is not too surprising Philosophy, Boethius comes to understand how And teaching fans the spark to take new life; knowing that one of his “philosopher heroes” of true happiness arises from within us in the con- Why else unaided can man answer true, the ancient Christian past was a one Boethius (ca. text of personal virtue, grasping at the same time Unless deep in the heart the touchwood burns? 480–524), a scion of one of the most patrician of how the affairs of the mind hold ultimate superi- And if the muse of Plato speaks the truth, Roman families who were unmistakably Chris- ority over worldly concern. Alternating between Man but recalls what once he knew and lost. tian, but who lived at the borders of the glories prose and poetry, he always gives the last word to But Boethius like all of us is cognizant of the of Ancient Rome and a nascent Christian Rome. poetry. Thus he pronounces: finitude of the human mind. It is directed toward Of true historical and literary significance is But if to care and want you’re prey, the true, but often comes up short in not under- Boethius’ probing work, The Consolation of Phi- No king are you, but slave. standing the true. It is infirm in other words, but losophy, notable for its being one of the classics this fact notwithstanding does not detract from of “prison literature” (others being Saint Paul’s To the contrary, man’s true dignity lies in his its inherent dignity. As he himself puts it, Letters to the Colossians, Philippians, Ephesians, being a creation of Almighty God. As Boethius waxes poetic, Is mind, oppressed by members blind, and to Philemon and Oscar Wilde’s De Profundis In lesser brightness powerless (not to mention the influence of a prison stay From one beginning rises all mankind; To see the slender links of things? on Feodor Dostoevsky in his writing), among From one Lord rules and fathers all things born. Why burns it then with love so great others—we will not deem Adolf Hitler’s Mein He gave the sun his light, the moon her horns, To learn the signs of truth?... Kampf, written while he was justly jailed, under And men to earth and stars to grace the sky; Whence once the mind beheld the mind of God the category of “world literature.” And so, on He closed in bodies minds brought down from high, Did it both sum and separate truths perceive? this note, this classic tome of A noble origin for mortal men. Now hidden in the body’s density was written while he was in prison for treason, Why then proclaim your kin and ancestry? It does not lose all memory of itself. allegedly for endeavoring to reconcile the “two” Look whence you came and see who made you, God. The many separate truths are lost, yet still branches of Christianity at that time (Theodoric No man degenerate is unless through sin It holds the sum. Therefore who seeks the truth being the Arian emperor of the West with the Or- He leaves his source for meaner things. In neither state will be: he does not know, thodox Zeno in the East). Whatever! Boethius And yet he is not wholly ignorant. was executed in Pavia, in northern Italy, where he To be true to himself man, Boethius argues, is revered as a saint. must make a turn toward interiority and allow ECED Holds Spring Meeting Marriottsville, MD

irectors of eparchial Religious Education The three-day session addressed the many fac- about the faith and its practices. Planning also departments recently held their Spring ets of the processes involved in planning, produc- went into the annual resumption of classroom MeetingD at Bon Secours Retreat and Conference ing and distributing student texts, facilitators’ activity in conjunction with the observance of Center in Marriottsville, MD. The ECED [East- guides, pamphlets, books, DVDs, posters and “Catechetical Sunday.” ern Conference of Eparchial Directors (of Reli- other instructional aids, prepared in print, on gious Education)] is entrusted with the task of discs, or on the Internet through God With Us The books and other items are mandated by providing catechetical and related materials for Publications. During the course of forty years, the American as instructional materials use in all levels of instruction—pre-K through ECED has seen to the details of maintaining an in parochial settings, and are also widely-used in adult, whether in formal classes, discussion inventory of suitable resources for catechists, Eastern Christian classes, study groups or indi- groups, or at-home study. students, and anyone interested in learning more vidual growth internationally. Page 12 Eastern Catholic Life JULY 2015

Understanding Icons Father Joseph Bertha, Ph.D. Repentence Visualized

cons showing the life and deeds and reflect the iconographers con- do Prophet Elijah and Prophet John Because he has humbled himself be- of Prophet Elijah frequently in- cept of eternal beings. The long the Baptist physically resemble one fore me, I will not bring the evil in cludeI the repentance of King Ahab. flowing white hair not only indi- another in icons, they are also iden- his days, but in his son’s days. I will cates eternity, it also is a signifier of tical in their spiritual roles as well. bring the evil upon his house.” Of all the proph- God’s ever flowing mercies avail- Both deal with purifying sinners ets, the most celebrated and re- able to repentant sinners. The rays of corruption, both admonish evil In the icon the haloed King Ahab nowned among the Slavic Byzan- which radiate from within their gar- kings, Ahab and Herod, and both bows at the feet of Prophet Elijah tines is undoubtedly Holy Prophet ments also highlight the splendor of prefigure the coming Messiah Jesus seeking forgiveness from YHWH Elijah. Commemorated annually on reconciliation with God. Christ who offers God’s repentance and being granted it! This dramatic 20 July with a feast day of his own, to sinners. scene would certainly have not have an honor not accorded to any oth- The liturgical celebration of the escaped the attention of believers as er figure from the Old Testament, Feast of the Transfiguration (August As we can see, the single most im- they bowed themselves before this Elijah, which in translation means 6) which occurs sixteen days after portant ministry of prophet is the holy icon, perhaps in the “YHWH is my God,” preached some that of Prophet Elijah shows Elijah reconciliation of sinners. The Old of Reconciliation to be restored to nine centuries before the coming of together with Moses to either side Testament is filled with many holy the good graces before God through Christ. of Our Blessed Lord on Mount Ta- prophets, yet only one is given a the Sacrament of Holy Repentance bor surrounded by rays of light. Pe- feast day on the Christian calendar; before the holy prophet priest. A Vespers verse succinctly sum- ter, James, and John are also present Prophet Elijah. marizes his deeds: at the feast, shown tumbling down The repentance of King Ahab In a poignant scene in the Life of demonstrates the abundant mercy “O prophet Elijah, lamp stand of Mount Tabor from this enlightening experience. Prophet Elijah, we can view the Re- of God, in that no matter how seri- the Church, which has no evening,/ pentance of Ahab. This scene is an ously we have transgressed, God is having been enflamed with divine Slavic Byzantines celebrate Trans- illustration of the account found in always appealing to us through his zeal,/ you closed up the rain from figuration as the feast of the first 1 Kings 21: 27-29: prophets by kindness and forbear- heaven you were fed by a raven,/ fruits, blessing and distributing ance to repent. Despite his intrac- you reproved the king and put the grapes and plums recalling a suc- “And when Ahab heard of these table sins the Lord gives grants for- priests to death;/ you commanded cessful harvest. Delving deeper into words, he tore his clothes, and put giveness of sins when Ahab repents fire from heaven and slew two cap- the meaning of this feast, we see that sackcloth upon his flesh and fasted before prophet Elijah. So too, we tains,/ you provided abundantly for what is being celebrated is the rays of and lay in sackcloth, and went about can experience God’s mercy in the the widow by means of a little oil God’s mercy of repentance radiating dejectedly. And the word of the wonderful sacrament of reconcilia- and a small handful of meal/ you through the world by the Old Testa- Lord came to Elijah the Tishbite tion offered to us by the priest. resurrected her son by your praye/r ment prophets, including Elijah and saying, Have you seen how Ahab you ignited the fire in water,/ you Moses, and fulfilled and perfected in has humbled himself before me? crossed the currents of the Jordan the Messiah Jesus Christ. on foot./ Indeed, you were raised up to heaven by a fiery chariot. / In the thirteenth century, an icon You gave a two fold grace to Elisha/ panel also found at Saint Catherine’s Pray unceasingly to God for the sal- Monastery shows Prophet Elijah vation of our souls.” as a much younger man with dark jagged black hair and clothed as an The Old Testament book of Kings ascetic in a himation made of camel abounds with the miracles of proph- hair over a chiton () with two et Elijah, but there is one particu- vertical black stripes inscribed from lar miracle found in the Life of the either shoulder stretching to his Prophet Elijah icons which is fre- feet. In this icon, the iconographers quently portrayed: the repentance have depicted Prophet Elijah as a of King Ahab. twin with the icons of Prophet John Icons of the Prophet Elijah the Baptist.

One of the earliest icons of the In fact, they look identical in Holy Prophet Elijah is found in the their portrayals. Iconographers Transfiguration apse mosaic of Saint link the two holy prophets, who Catherine Monastery, Mount Sinai, are separated by some 800 yearsm dating from the sixth century. In this by the words of Jesus who likens particular mosaic, Elijah is shown John the Baptist to Elijah (Mat- as the Ancient of Days: with long thew 11:15). Our Lord’s words flowing white hair, wearing a hima- are significant since Jews believed tion resplendent with radiating gold that Elijah would return to the earth stripes. is typically just before the arrival of the Mes- depicted as the Ancient of Days siah. This parallel portrayal is also with long white flowing hair, usually noteworthy because it occurs at a enthroned with large white flowing monastic center, Saint Catherine’s garments, a reference to the prophet at Sinai where were not only Daniel’s vision of heaven. iconographers, but daily prayed the Scriptures intently searching for Both God the Father and Elijah connections between the Old Tes- Icon of the Prophet Elijah surrounded by Biblical Scenes are depicted in a similar manner, tament figures and Christ. Not only JULY 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 13

Seasonal Reflections Monsignor John. T. Sekellick, JCL The al until he was advised in a dream We can readily see the challenges foundations for freedom, security that what was conceived in her “… of family living in the life of the Holy and fraternity within society. The is of the ” (Luke 1:20). Family, challenges experienced in family is the community in which, We know only a few details of the various ways by many families in from childhood, one can learn mor- infancy and early years of their Son’s our own times. From September al values, begin to honor God, and life: from His birth in a cave in Beth- 22-27, the World Meeting of Fami- make good use of freedom. Family lehem, His circumcision eight days lies will take place in Philadelphia life is an initiation into life in soci- later, their escape into Egypt from with attending. It is ety.” (No. 2207) he Preamble of the Akathis- the wrath of the jealous King Herod, a once-in-a-lifetime event which oc- Moreover, the family is a commu- tos to the Theotokos sets for His presentation in the Temple, and curs every three years since 1994 nity of faith, of hope and of charity. usT the initial formation of the Holy the account of His being found when it was first organized under Saint Paul, writing to the Ephesians, Family, detailed in Saint Luke’s Gos- in the Temple at the age of twelve Pope Saint John Paul II. Its intent urges husbands to love their wives pel , Chapter 1, verses 26-38: “As (Luke 2:41-52). is to strengthen the sacred bonds of (as Christ the Church); like- soon as the angel had received his the family which have come under We also know He grew up in the wise, wives are instructed to be sub- command, he hastened to Joseph’s so much pernicious attack. relatively small and insignificant ject to their husbands as to the Lord house and said to the ever-virgin: town of Nazareth. The calls (5:21,25). The Christian family is “Behold, heaven was brought down the family the “domestic Church” a sign and very image of the Father to earth when the Word Himself In the 18 years intervening until in which “…parents should, by and the Son in the Holy Spirit—a was fully contained in you! Now His public ministry begins on the their word and example, be the first call to holiness. that I see Him in your womb, taking shores of the Jordan River, the Gos- preachers of the Faith to their chil- a servant’s form, I cry out to you in pels are silent on Jesus’ upbringing dren,” (, No. 11) We see in the Holy Family a com- wonder: Hail, O Bride and maiden and education, except for His pro- TheCatechism of the Catholic Church pelling example of that love borne ever-pure!” fession working as a carpenter with tells us the family “…is the natural out in good times and bad. May our Joseph who, according to Tradition, families emulate that example and That Family, however, at its very society in which husband and wife died while Jesus was an adolescent. turn to the Holy Family to guide beginning experienced a problemat- are called to give themselves in life Much of His education and life-ex- their lives and aid them in any need. ic start. Joseph, to whom Mary was and in the gift of life. Authority, perience would have been guided by only betrothed (not yet married), stability, and a life of relationships Mary, His mother. was going to terminate their espous- within the family constitute the

silently with you. What a joy to spend time with Jesus. Also, let’s not forget that our Lord School of Prayer Jesus is truly present, body, blood, Father G. Scott Boghossian soul, and divinity in the Holy Eu- your body is the of the Holy charist. To be in the presence of the The Presence of God Spirit…? (I Cor. 6:19) The God who Eucharist, reserved in the tabernacle is infinite goodness, beauty, and truth, or on the altar during the Divine Lit- eek the LORD and his strength, not! Just like a fish in the sea is sur- who is love, dwells within me now, urgy, is to be in the very presence of Sseek his presence continually. - rounded on every side by water, so enlightening my mind, empowering Jesus Christ Himself. Why not get to Psalm 105:4 we are immersed in the presence of my will. Saint. John tells us, “Greater church a few minutes early to spend God. “He is not far from each one of is He who is in you, than he who is in When we settle down to spend time some time talking to the Lord who is us, for, ‘In him we live and move and the world” I John 4:4. conversing with the Lord in prayer, it present in this very special and unique have our being’” (Acts 17:28). Simply way? Here he is not only spiritually is important to start things right. The We may also realize the presence of by taking a few moments of silence present or present in virtue of His saints urge us, before doing anything God when we remember that our Sav- to remind ourselves of this truth, and divinity, but present in his humanity, else, to place ourselves in the pres- ior Jesus Christ is looking down on us thanking God for his presence here body, blood, soul, and divinity! ence of God. And even outside of our and now, we can experience some- from heaven right now at this very formal prayer time, one of the ways to thing of the peace and satisfaction moment. From there he is observing Finally, can there be any way to be “pray without ceasing” (I Thess. 5:17) that His presence offers. our thoughts and actions and hearing closer to the Lord Jesus in this life than is to keep ourselves in the presence of our prayers. He is looking on us with to receive Him in Holy ? God as we do whatever needs to be Another way to practice the pres- the same love that compelled him to Saint Teresa of Avila says that when done. ence of God is to recall that God endure the sufferings of the cross for we receive Holy Communion, Jesus is dwells within our soul as in a temple. our salvation. This isn’t saccharine The essence of our future heavenly sitting on the throne of our heart, ask- When we were born from above sentimentality but the very truth of happiness will be the presence of ing us, “what do you want me to do through the waters of baptism (John the matter as indicated by Saint. Ste- God. There, we will see God as He is, for you?”. These moments after Holy 3:5), God the Holy Trinity came to phen’s vision at at the moment of his love him with the entirety of our be- Communion should be a time that we dwell within us. If we had the mis- martyrdom. “But he, full of the Holy ing, and be perfectly united to Him. are especially aware of and immersed fortune to lose this new life through Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the We can have a taste of that future in the presence of God. deliberate serious sin, it was restored glory of God, and Jesus standing at heavenly happiness here and now, if to us through repentance, confes- the right hand of God” (Acts 7:55). People are searching for happiness, we learn how to place ourselves in His sion, and absolution in the Sacrament and pursuing things that ultimately presence. of Confession. Being in this state of Saint encour- will not satisfy or fulfill them. Let us ages us to use our spiritual imagina- The saints advise several ways to friendship with God means that we seek and find our happiness in the tion, and to picture our Savior as place ourselves in the presence of are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. (While Holy presence of God. beside us, just as we might imagine God. The first is an act of simple faith all three Persons of the Holy Trinity an absent friend. Imagine the Lord In your presence there is fullness of in the truth of God’s omnipresence. inhabit the soul in the state of grace, in front of you, perhaps on the chair joy; at your right hand are pleasures We know that God the Holy Trinity the Scriptures and the Fathers often opposite you, where he is listen- forevermore. - Psalm 16:11 is fully present in every place, all the attribute the divine indwelling to the ing to you prayers, or simply sitting time. There is no place where God is Holy Spirit.) “Do you not know that Page 14 Eastern Catholic Life JULY 2015

Faith and Community Issues By Father Carmen Scuderi, OFM, Ed.D., P.C.C. Suicide—What are the Triggers?

The role of stress, events and situa- pain and/or severe disability are found to bring sadness, followed by increase in anxiety as well as tions about the choice of suicide in the sufferer. For “tension, frustration, anger, or shame” (Comer, Comer (2011) who quotes Schneider and She- 2011 citing Fawcett, 2007; Werth, 2004). Con- To this point, suicide has been defined by nassa (2008), the intensity of the pain/disability tinuing in the same line of thought, Comer cites Comer (2011) as “a self-inflicted death in which becomes intolerable. Study suggests that as many Shneidman (2005, 2001) in suggesting that a key one makes an intentional, direct and conscious as one-third of suicide victims make the decision to understanding suicide is “‘psychache,’ a feeling effort to end one’s life” (p.236). Comer also to end their lives at the end of an extended period of psychological pain that seems intolerable to identified four types of personality that would of declining health and increasing pain and dis- the person”(Comer, 2011, p. 237). Recent stud- attempt to end their lives: “the death seeker, the ability. ies gleaned from 88 clients, according to Comer death initiator, the death ignorer, and the death (2011), reveal that those who registered high darer” (p.236). Comer also identified two major Abusive Environment scores on a measure called the Psychological Pain methodologies used to study suicide: “retrospec- People forced into living in an abusive or re- Assessment Scale were far more likely than oth- tive analysis and the study of people who survive pressive environment and who perceive little to ers to the commission of suicide (Comer citing suicide attempts” (236). no hope of escape or reprieve may revert to sui- Pompili et al., 2008). According to Comer (2011), Suicide is one of cide, according to Comer (2011). Comer cites In addition to feelings, Comer (2011) also sees the highest causes of death in the Western World. prisoners of war, inmates of concentration camps, shifts in thinking patterns as possible avenues The rates are variable among the countries and abused spouses, abused children and prison in- facilitating suicidal ideation and action. Preoc- some reasons listed concerned the role of reli- mates are numbered among those attempting and cupation with problems becoming obsessive gion as a preventative in the lives of the people too often succeeding at suicide attempts (Comer causes loss of perspective and setting suicide as within the countries studied. Race, gender, social citing Lohner and Konrad, 2009; Konrad et al., the only possible way out (Comer citing Shneid- supports and marital status were also seen to play 2007). Similar to those suffering chronic severe man, 2005, 2001, 1987). Often an overwhelming a part in the rate of suicide according to Comer’s illnesses, the abused reach a point of utter satura- sense of hopelessness can push an individual over research. With these results comes the question, tion with the abusive situation and are convinced the brink to the choosing of suicide as the only what would trigger a response of the magnitude within themselves that there is neither hope of viable alternative to the present experience of the of suicide in the experience of a person? relief nor possibility of improvement in their dys- victim. functional system (Comer, 2011 citing Sansone Research reveals that among those who attempt and Sansone, 2009; Tanner 2008; Sadock and Hopelessness and dichotomous think- suicide there is a marked increase in the levels of Sadock, 2007). Although the findings are con- ing in suicide stress compared to those who have not attempt- vincing, Comer cautions against drawing quick ed suicide (p.236, Comer, 2011, quoting Kessler conclusions about a direct correlation between Comer (2011) defines hopelessness as “a pes- et al., 2008). Although it appears obvious that these stressors and suicide. In Comer’s (2011) simistic belief that their (victim) present circum- stressors of enormity such as witnessing combat words, “Such findings do not necessarily mean stances, problems, or mood will not change” (p. on the battlefields of places like Iraq or Afghani- that occupational pressures directly cause suicid- 237). Comer cites Van Orden et al. (2008), in stan would cause attempted suicides, there exist al actions” (p.237). Comer indicates other causes stating that for some clinicians, the feeling of other less horrific but acute stressors of an imme- such as possible job stress rather than financial in- hopelessness is singularly the most likely indica- diate nature that can and do bring about the act of securities can also contribute to suicidal attempt tor of the intention to commit suicide and that suicide. Comer cites the loss of loved ones, with and he also makes an interesting comment upon special care is taken to seek out high suicide at- the experiences of death, divorce or rejection as suicidal psychiatrists and psychologists who rath- tempt potential when the signs of hopelessness the occasions for cause. He also sees the loss of er than emotionally reacting to the strain of their are presenting themselves within the context of gainful employment as another very real factor. work are in fact reacting to their own long-stand- therapy. Some stressors caused by natural phenomena, ing emotional or psychological issues which may e.g. weather patterns, hurricane, tornado, tsu- Another indicator for extremely high suicide well have formed the grounds for their career probability is the act of dichotomous thinking. nami can be overwhelming in nature and expe- choice from the outset. rience. Comer also posits the existence of long Comer (2011) cites Shneidman (2005, 2001, term stressors as valid causes of suicidal actions; Mood and Thought Changes as instru- 1993) in stating that dichotomous thinking he cites three in particular: serious illness, an abu- mental in Suicide “viewing problems and solutions in rigid either/ sive environment, and occupational stress (2011, or terms” (p.237). Comer (2011) states: “In- p.236). According to Comer (2011), Attempts to deed, Shneidman has said that the ‘four-letter commit suicide are often preceded by a change word in suicide is ‘only,’ as in ‘suicide was the only The roles of Illness, Abusive Environ- in mood. It may not be severe enough to have a thing I could do’ (citing Maris, 2001). ment and Occupational Stress in Suicide full-blown diagnosis of mental disorder, but it is Attempts recognized as a major departure from the usual In our next installment, alcohol, drug use, and behaviors as experienced by friends and family mental disorders and their role in suicide will be Serious Illness of the individual. Comer (2011) states that most examined, along with modeling and the role of commonly recognized change is an increase in the “Rich and Famous” in victims’ decisions re- Illness that carries with it great and unremitting garding suicide.

300ppi, 150ppi minimum Article Submission Request • Photographs must be attached to an email; they may not be embedded in the Does your parish have Feast Day events, fun- Article Submission Requirements: body of the text. draisers, community service projects, special • Article must be approved by the pastor liturgical services, or any other type of happen- • Article written in Microsoft Word Please Note Regarding ing? Speak with your pastor and become your • Author’s name Photos of Children: parish media liaison! • Photographer’s name We cannot publish photos containing only Articles can be emailed to the editor at: • Key people present in photographs one child. Photos of children must be in [email protected] • Photographs preffered at a resolution of groups of two or more. JULY 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 15

The Byzantine Liturgy By Archpriest David Petras, SEOD Who is God? Part 2

hat there is God is essential for our faith object.” ( The Experience of God ) We don’t This brings us to the second fundamental error in the Resurrection. Here, however, I am know something simply because we know how that arguments about God revolve around today: notT interested in proving the existence of God, it works. This is our technological bias. Knowl- the image of God that atheists deny. There is, but coming ourselves to a better understanding edge exists to make our life better. If we under- what people skilled in the debate call “straw men.” of who God is. In the last article I pointed out stand how something works, we can make our life The goal is to formulate an image of God that no that disbelief is on the rise. This is for two rea- better. We may then draw the false conclusion: if one could believe in and then demolish that im- sons: many people today do not understand the we understand how the universe works, we can age, that “straw man.” Human beings fall natu- question of God’s existence, nor do they have a dispense with God. This is much like a mother rally into this trap. We often picture God as an healthy concept of who God is. Since our public answering her child’s question, “Mother, why old man with a beard, that is, as one being among academic training today is strongly from a scien- are we celebrating Bertie’s birthday by baking a others, as if you could put them in a line-up and tific viewpoint, we share these weaknesses in un- cake?” by handing her a recipe for the cake. This say, ‘Oh look, there’s the president, there’s Angeli- derstanding with them. And if we do not under- is not about how being works, it is about being na Jolie, there’s Santa Claus, there’s O. J. Simpson, stand God, we do not understand resurrection. itself. there’s God, the second from the right. This idea is pervasive in contemporary culture. One of the The God problem is often framed in a science It is at least quite clear that there is existence legends is the story of the Russian cosmonaut, vs. religion context. Terence Nicholas observed, or being. The atheist may counter all that we on the first flight into space in 1961, is reported “Naturalism as a world-view has subtly pervaded have said, “The universe is ‘just there,” the ulti- to have said, “I don’t see any God up here,” as if the media, books, universities, and school class- mate principle of being remains a mystery. It is God were a distinct individual with a location in rooms so that it is now the atmosphere in which not necessary to add another layer of “mystery,” space and time. The words actually seem to have we live.” This is a clue to the first misunderstand- by claiming there is a “God,” who is also “just never been said. Hart explains, “Yet the most ing that occurs. There is really only one knowl- there,” even if you define him as being itself. Here pervasive error one encounters in contemporary edge of truth. However, different realities are is where faith comes into play. The point of ar- arguments about belief in God - especially but apprehended or grasped in different ways. For guments or apologetics is not to prove by some not exclusively, on the atheist side - is the habit example, we do not learn history by physical ex- form of brain-compelling force that is of conceiving of God simply as some very large perimentation. The question of God is ultimately God, but to manifest the reasonableness of our object or agency within the universe, or perhaps a “why” question, not a “how” question. This is faith. There is, indeed, a “principle of being,” but alongside the universe, a being among other be- where most of the modern debate goes wrong. this “principle” is not some mindless “Force,” but ings, who differs from all other beings in magni- If we say, “God created the universe,” we are not a conscious, willing and loving Creator. After tude, power, and duration, but not ontologically, asking “how” the universe was made. Books de- all, if we ourselves are “conscious,” “willing,” and and who is related to the world more or less as a nouncing the existence of God are usually about “loving,” how can we expect less of the Creator, craftsman is related to an architect.” He goes on, the mechanism of how the universe developed who would himself be “wisdom,” and “freedom,” “At a trivial level, one sees the confusion in some over its course of coming to be. David Bentley and “love.” This was Saint John the Theologian’s of the more shopworn witticisms of popular athe- Hart, an Orthodox believer, writes, “One of intuition, “ Whoever is without love does not ism: “I believe neither in God nor in the fairies the deep prejudices that the age of mechanism know God, for God is love. (1 John 4:8)” This is at the bottom of my garden,” for instance, or “All instilled in our culture, and that infects our reli- why we say we are made in God’s image and like- people are atheists in regard to Zeus, Wotan and gious and materialist fundamentalisms alike, is a ness. David Bentley Hart wrote: “For to say that most other gods; I simply disbelieve in one god version of the so-called genetic fallacy: to wit, the God is being, consciousness and bliss is also to more.” ( The Experience of God ) The point is mistake of thinking to have described a thing’s say that he is the one reality in which all our ex- that God is not one more being among others, material history or physical origins is to have ex- istence, knowledge and love subsist, from which but the foundation of all being. God is outside plained that thing exhaustively. We tend to pre- they come and to which they go, and that there- creation as the Creator (avoiding pantheism) sume that if one can discover the temporally pri- fore he is somehow present in even our simplest but, as Creator, is, as the Fathers often reiterated, or physical causes of some object - the world, an experience of the world, and is approachable by “closer to us than we are to ourselves.” organism, a behavior, a religion, a mental event, way of a contemplative and moral refinement of an experience, or anything else - one has thereby that experience.” ( The Experience of God ) eliminated all other causal explanations of that

11 DAYS GREECE & THE GREEK ISLES IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF Saint PAUL OCTOBER 20—30, 2015 Hosted by Rev. Father Charles M. Yastishock & Rev. Father Edward Cimbala ONLY $3399 PER PERSON FROM NEWARK (Air/land tour price is $2599 plus $702 govt. taxes/ airline fuel surcharges and $98 port charges) Travel in the footsteps of Saint Paul…See the Acropolis in Athens…Visit Corinth where Paul worked with Aquila and Priscilla…Take a Greek Isles cruise to Ephesus, see Patmos…Visit Thessaloniki and Philippi Tour Includes: Roundtrip air from Newark, $702 govt. taxes/airline fuel surcharges, $98 port charges, first class hotels, 3-day Greek Isles cruise, most meals, comprehensive sightseeing & much more! For a full color brochure, call Father Yastishock at (732) 255-6272 Or Email at [email protected] JOIN US FOR THIS TRIP OF A LIFETIME! SPACE IS LIMITED AT THIS SPECIAL PRICE! Page 16 Eastern Catholic Life JULY 2015

Spiritual Reflections Deacon Lewis Rabayda We Cannot be True Christians Without Conversion

s Catholics who hold the or- But if we do not have this conver- ery moment as an opportunity to do tolerate it in their lives. One who un- thodox beliefs of Christianity sion, if we do not dedicate our lives good, show love, and to resist temp- dergoes conversion to become a dis- handedA down to us by Jesus Christ, to Christ, than all of this language is tations to do evil. Those who have ciple of Jesus Christ lives in a state of we believe and know that we become mere theological musing. No. This converted strive to learn all they can purity that they continue from their Christians at our baptism. This mo- language is a feeble attempt to articu- about God and His Church through baptism. When they fall short of that ment of cleansing, blessing, and seal- late an alternate way of life known constant reading of Scripture and purity, they strongly desire to regain ing of the Gift of the Holy Spirit is a only by those who truly live accord- other spiritual reading. They are war- it again by availing themselves of the renunciation of a former life of sin ing to the commands of God. Those riors against overt and subliminal forgiveness of God through the Holy and chaos. At our baptism, just like who have converted may not know evil in the world and are saddened Mystery of Reconciliation, because when God created the world “out of how to express their experience in when they experience people or they know that spending eternity nothing” and He gave form to the words, but they know the love and expressions which fail to recognize with God in heaven is worth more void, so too God gives us direction, peace they feel within their hearts. God’s love. They also do not tolerate than any earthly pleasure. form, and order for our lives. We This is the same love and peace we evil in their own lives and show oth- have been called out of the chaos of receive from Christ, if only we make ers by example that they should not a nature ruled by Satan after the fall this commitment and give up every- of Adam and Eve to be part of the thing that binds us to this world of Kingdom of Heaven and to be close chaos and flesh. to God. This is true whether we have been baptized as infants or adults. When we are baptized as infants, our godparents make this promise of When we are baptized as adults, conversion for us, and we should be the sacrament is a moment of total grateful that our parents and godpar- conversion into the life of Christ just ents love us so much, that they want as it was for the early Christians. This us to be initiated into the Christian is known as the moment of conver- community and to become mem- sion. This moment is one of formally bers of the kingdom of heaven. What rejecting our previous lives of sin greater gift can we receive than to be and separation from God and now washed clean of the results of a fallen accepting a new life totally devoted world? But since we were infants, to the Holy Trinity and to living out we did not accept this conversion as God’s commandments. It is this way a life that we truly want to live. And of living that attracted so many peo- now that we are grown—it is doubt- ple to the faith in the early Church. ful that an infant is reading this ar- It is this seriousness of conversion ticle—we have to reaffirm the prom- that produces so many for ises made for us at our Baptism. We Christ. When we live this type of must accept an active conversion in conversion, we are no longer our- our childhood, teenage, young adult, selves as we were, but we are beacons midlife, and twilight years. of Christ, reflections of Christ, and it is Christ Who lives in us and through But what exactly is this conver- us. This is the meaning of sainthood, sion? It is when we say to God in and each baptized Christian is called prayer, or at any moment with con- to this life. We then put on a pure viction, that we promise to follow white garment which shows the Him and to devote our lives to Him purity of the soul after it has been in the way that He has revealed to us. cleansed in the waters of Baptism. One who is truly converted sees ev-

Eastern Catholic Life Upcoming Events for July Circulation Department Eparchial and Parish Events 445 Lackawanna Avenue Woodland Park, NJ 07424

1 Pre-Teen Girls’ Camp ends 21 Hierarchical Divine Liturgy Next Issue: Carpathian Village, Cresco, PA with Bishop Kurt for Saint Ann August, 2015 Novena 3 Independence Day Holiday Basilica of Saint Ann, Scranton, PA, Copy Deadline: Chancery closed July 17th 4:30 p.m. 4 Independence Day 26-29 Eparchial Teen Rally The current issue of the ECL 19-22 Altar Server Congress Carpathian Village, Cresco, PA was printed at Evergreen Print- ing, Bellmawr, NJ and Carpathian Village, Cresco, PA was distributed from the U.S. Post Office via second 20 Holy Prophet Elias class mailing in Bellmawr, NJ. Simple Holy Day