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Home , Antidoron, Defender of the Bond, Theodore Romzha, Thomas Dolinay

Eastern Catholic Life Publication of the Byzantine Catholic of Passaic

VOL. XLIX, NO. 11 NOVEMBER 2013

Eparchial Stewardship Appeal 2013 50 Years an Eparchy

Passaic. He elevated Michael the Archangel Byzantine in Passaic, NJ to be the Cathedral of the new eparchy. On July 31, 1963 the canonical establishment of the Eparchy of Passaic was celebrated with the Hierarchical at the newly-established Cathedral of Saint Michael the Archangel. For the past 50 years, the Eparchy of Passaic, through the ministry of its bishops, , , religious and faith- ful has faithfully served the spiritual needs of God’s people. From youth programs to teen retreats, from the education of seminarians to the formation of deacons, from aid to our sis- ter Churches in Europe to subsidizing parishes here at home, the continued development of the Eparchy of Passaic is made possible by your generous support of the Annual Stewardship Appeal. As Eparchial Administrator since April 23, 2012, I have seen how your contributions positively impact life and spiritual growth throughout the Eparchy! Our Stewardship goal for this year is set for $400,000. We encourage each of you to continue to be generous benefactors in this year’s appeal. Please prayerfully consider the amount you are able to pledge. You may also wish to consider an increased gift in honor of the Eparchy’s 50th Anniversary. Please be assured of my prayers. I ask that you keep me, the priests, deacons, religious and faithful of the Eparchy of Passaic in your prayers as well. Transcarpathian Theotokos and Child Patroness of the Eparchy Sincerely yours in the service of Christ and His People,

n one of the first acts of his new pontifcate in 1963, Paul VI issued the Passaicensis- Very Reverend Edward G. Cimbala, D.Min. Pitsburgensis. The Apostolic Constitution was issued on Administrator of the Eparchy of Passaic JulyI 6, the Feast of Cyril and Methodius, Apostles to the Slavs, according to the calendar of the Church. With this Apostolic Constitution, the Holy Father elevated the status of As Patroness of the Eparchy of Passaic, the Carpatho-Rusyn people the Exarchate of Pittsburgh to that of an Eparchy, and, at the have a deep and ever-loving relationship with the Theotokos. This same time, created the Eparchy of Passaic from the Eparchy of sacred icon, written in Transcarpathia, is part of the Heritage Institute Pittsburgh. The Holy Father defined the territory of the new collection. Eparchy of Passaic to be all the coastal states along the Atlantic “My vision for the future of our is based upon my faith and Ocean and the eastern counties of Pennsylvania. confidence in God’s love for his people, in the intercession of Mary, the Mother of God and the patroness of our diocese, and in the love, dedication The Holy Father also appointed Bishop Stephen Kocis- and labors of our , religious and faithful.” ko, of Pittsburgh, to be the First Bishop of +Most Reverend Michael J. Dudick Second Bishop of the Eparchy of Passaic

Eparchial Stewardship Eparchial Mother Marija Remembers Byzantine Liturgy at St. Ann Appeal—p2-3 History—p5-6 Bishop Michael—p8-9 Basilica—p13 Page 2 Eastern Catholic Life NOVEMBER 2013

Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic Stewardship Appeal 2013

Every donor pledging a generous gift of $250.00 or more will receive a complimentary copy of the commemorative anniversary book: “50 Years an Eparchy: Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic 1963-2013”

A Word of Thanks Danbury Church Fire Contributions

To the Clergy, Religious and the Faithful of the Eparchy of Passaic, I know that Father John and the As you know, Saint Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church in family are extremely grateful for your kind- Danbury, Connecticut suffered a devastating fire on June 29th, the ness. More importantly, they appreciate the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, which destroyed the entire church countless prayers that have been offered, as building. well as the many words of encouragement they have received over the past few months. Father John Cigan and the parish family are currently work- ing diligently on the design and reconstruction of the new church I encourage you to continue to pray for building while they continue to celebrate the Divine Liturgy in the Father John and the parish family of Saint Nicholas Church, as I catering facility across from the church property. It is fortunate am sure that you know the edifying power of prayer. And, please that much of the cost of reconstruction will be covered by insur- be assured of my continued prayers for you. As Saint Paul wrote to ance, although some things remain irreplaceable. his friend Philemon, “I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers” (Philemon 1:4) and I ask a kind remembrance in yours. In prayerful solidarity with the parishioners of Saint Nicholas Church, you – the faithful of the Eparchy of Passaic – responded Sincerely yours in the service of Christ and His people, with admirable and inspiring generosity by contributing to a spe- cial collection to assist them during this difficult time. Therefore, I am happy to report that, thanks to your generosity of spirit, we were able to forward over $51,000.00 to Saint Nicholas Parish. Very Rev. Edward G. Cimbala, D.Min. Additionally, many people also responded with prayers and gifts Administrator of the Eparchy of Passaic directly to the parish. NOVEMBER 2013 Eastern Catholic Life Page 3

Your Stewardship Gifts Support Our Eparchial Programs OUR GOAL: $400,000

EPARCHIAL & PAROCHIAL SUPPORT RESERVE Support, Renovation & Maintenance of Parishes in Need and Financial reserves for the Future and Emergencies $120,000 ST NICHOLAS SHRINE/CARPATHIAN VILLAGE Maintenance, Improvement and Operation $70,000 PROPERTY & CASUALTY INSURANCE Subsidizing Parish Premiums for Insurance Coverage $70,000 ASSISTANCE TO EUROPEAN Assistance and Aid to Seminaries, and $20,000 CLERGY HEALTH CARE Subsidizing Parish Contributions for Active and Retired $70,000 EASTERN CHRISTIAN FORMATION Catechist & Coordinator Formation, Family Enrichment, Publications, Youth Ministry, Certification Stewardship $10,000 FORMATION PROGRAM Appeal Support of the four-year program, Continuing Education, Seminars, Retreats $5,000 EDUCATION OF SEMINARIANS AND PRIESTS 2013 Seminary Studies and Formation, Pastoral Programs, Workshops, Seminars,Eparchial Vocations Program, Graduate Studies One generation praises your deeds $25,000 to the next and proclaims your mighty works!

PRIEST PENSION FUND ~Psalm 145:4 $10,000

STEWARDSHIP APPEAL 2013

Please make check payable to “Eparchy of Passaic” - Thank you!

PLEASE COMPLETE & RETURN TO YOUR PARISH BY DEC. 31

If you have not received a PLEDGE CARD, you may use the one above, and return to your parish or to 445 Lackawanna Ave., Woodland Park, NJ 07424. Page 4 Eastern Catholic Life NOVEMBER 2013

People You Know Around the Eparchy

Epiphany Church - Annandale, VA Catholic Radio has an Epiphany! Annual Circulation Report Prinzivalli, General Man- ager of WMET-1160AM, the Catholic radio station serving the Washington, DC area that the station would be Sept 19, 2013

promoting some of Epipha- $15 ny’s future activities to their listeners. This would expand 973-890-7794 the reach of the Byzantine Catholic Church in Wash- ington to a much wider audi- ence. In gratitude, Father John Basarab, of Epipha- he Men’s Club of Epiph- ny Church, recently presented Mr. any of Our Lord Byzan- Prinzivalli with a Certificate of Ap- tine TCatholic Church in Annan- preciation from the Epiphany Men’s dale, VA, recently heard from Steve Club.

Saints Cyril and Methodius Church Fort Pierce, FL - Oldest Parishioner Blessed

aints Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Church in FortS Pierce, FL recently celebrat- ed a joyful milestone for its oldest parishioner, Martha Bombuscar. Martha celebrated her 100th birth- day on August 28th, when a parish celebration was held for her.

Following the Divine Liturgy on August 27, 2013 Sunday, September 1st, she received a Papal from her pastor, Father Michael Sopoliga. Upon re- 6893 6893 ceiving the Papal Blessing, Martha kissed it and began to cry. 6511 6511 May God grant her many blessed years!

EASTERN CATHOLIC LIFE

(USPS 165-600) 6511 6511 (ISSN 0894-9786) Official Publication of the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic Subscription Rate: $15.00 per year. News and Photo Services: Catholic News Service, CNS Picture Service and Member of the Catholic Press Association of America. Published monthly by the Eastern Catholic Press Association, 445 Lackawanna Avenue, Woodland Park NJ 07424. 300 300

Phone: 973-890-7794. Fax: 973-890-7175. 6811 6811 Postage Paid at Little Falls, NJ and additional office at Bellmawr, NJ. 82 82 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: 6893 6893 Eastern Catholic Life 445 Lackawanna Avenue, Woodland Park, NJ 07424. 96% 96%

Very Rev. James G. Hayer, Editor October 16, 2013

Mrs. Diane Rabiej, Associate Editor 9/19/13 E-Mail us at: [email protected] Eparchial Website: www.EparchyofPassaic.com NOVEMBER 2013 Eastern Catholic Life Page 5

History of the Eparchy of Passaic Preparing for the 50th Anniversary of the Eparchy of Passaic - November 10, 2013

Part 13 - The Torch is Passed The Appointment of Bishop Andrew Pataki By Father Jody J. Baran

The Carpathian Village spiritual Father and Administrator to the Carpath- ian Village. The first to hold this post, was Father long with a pavillion and cabins, a Shrine Paul Tigyer. Father Paul was a wise choice. He was area was also constructed at the a man truly immersed in the spiritual life and also CarpathianA Village in order to accommodate litur- a hard worker. Father Paul was given another task gical celebrations. The Shrine would be dedicated which was to have a hand in the Formation of our to Saint Nicholas of Myra, the special patron of all future priests. Bishop felt that his seminarians could Byzantine Catholics in the United States. To ac- benefit both physically and spiritually during their commodate everyone, rest rooms were constructed summer breaks. Your humble servant who is shar- along with a dormitory equipped with bunk beds ing this historical journey, as well as my classmates, for twenty-four adults or forty children. There is a were among the first seminarians to benefit from common room with a widescreen TV and VCR- the Carpathian Village. Along with the manual la- DVD. There is also a full kitchen there. An amphi- bor that was necessary in developing Carpathian theatre was built for there to be shows and music Village, the seminarians were able to draw from to be performed by those who are talented and as the spiritual font as well. Father Paul gave classes in a means of education and entertainment. For in- chant, Church Slavonic and spiritual direction. He dividuals and families who would come, six cab- celebrated the Divine Liturgy and other services for ins with air conditioning/electric heat, a bedroom the edification of these future priests. with a full-size bed, a small bathroom, and a small kitchen area were constructed. Even to make it Among these spiritual duties Father Paul also more accessible an area was provided for people to led retreats and opportunities for spiritual growth bring campers and motor homes if they so desired. for the many Faithful who came to this special place. Bishop Michael wanted this to be a welcome place There were also other aspects of Carpathian Village. for all to come to recharge their spiritual batteries There were recreational things to do as well as spiri- and overall equilibrium. tual. People could come and make use of the bocce ball court, and trails through the woods, along with After all of this physical construction was es- many different attractions throughout the beautiful tablished and completed, it was time to assign a Pocono Mountains. With all of this, Bishop Michael saw an opportunity to show his concern not only for adults but for the youth of our Eparchy. In the last article we saw Bishop always handing out gift to the children who came for the pilgrimage. He took one step further by developing several camps for the children. He set up an Camp so that the servers from all over the Eparchy could come and learn how to be better Altar Servers and better people. They were given direction in how to serve at the Altar, how to add to the solemnity and beauty of our Divine Liturgy. They would take part in the services and liturgies provided by the clergy and seminarians of our Eparchy. There would be periods of recreation and even time to take in a ballgame or two. The other Camp was actually divided into two sessions. These became the Youth Camps and allowed youth from all over the Eparchy an opportu- nity to grow spiritually and to learn more about their faith and also to have a chance to meet new friends and develop into a true Eparchial Family. Today Father Michael Salnicky is in charge of Carpathian Village. Being a student of Father Paul himself, Father Michael continues this important work for our Eparchy. He is a spiritual and hard-working . I encourage you to go and experience for yourself this wonderful place in the Poconos. It stands as a beacon of hope and renewal in the natural setting of God’s creation. I guarantee you, too, will return renewed in both spirit and body. We continue to reap the benefits and will do so for many years to come. A debt of gratitude is owed to Bishop for his labors in the Vineyard of Jesus Christ and for furthering God’s Kingdom especially in the Eparchy of Pas- saic. Thank you Bishop for all that you have accomplished. The Torch is Passed but the Legacy Lives On In 1995, at the age of 79, Bishop Michael was informed by the in that his resignation as Second Bishop of Passaic had been accept- ed. On November 21, 1995, the Most Reverend Andrew Pataki, JCL, DD, who had been the Second Bishop of the Parma Eparchy, was appointed to Dinner by Reservations Only succeed Bishop Michael and became the Continued on next page Page 6 Eastern Catholic Life NOVEMBER 2013

in Weirton, WV as well as his Archeparchial du- Upon his appointment as Third Bishop of Eparchial History ties as Defender of the Bond on the Matrimonial Passaic, Bishop Andrew developed a new govern- Continued from previous page Tribunal, Director of the Society of the Sacred ing structure and restructured the Eparchy into Heart, Chairman of the Liturgical Commission, six Syncellates with six new Syncellae (Episcopal Vice-Chancellor, Chancellor and . Vicars), each with the authority to grant dispen- sations and permissions. Again, he promulgated a In June of 1983, Pataki was Third Bishop of our Eparchy. He was enthroned standardized form of the Divine Liturgy, the Pre- named as the second Auxiliary Bishop of Passaic at the Cathedral of Saint Michael the Archangel sanctified Liturgy and the Sacramental Mysteries by the Blessed Pope John Paul II. At this point, in Passaic on February 8, 1996. of Initiation. He also reinstituted that the three I would like to mention in our fifty years of his- Sacraments (Mysteries) of Initiation (Baptism, Bishop Andrew was born on August 30, 1927 tory in the Eparchy of Passaic we have had three Chrismation and ) be administered to- in Palmerton, Pennsylvania, to the late Ignatius Auxiliary (Assistant) Bishops. The first was The gether for new recipients (adult or infant) into the and Sophie (Dejak) Pataki. As a youth, he attend- Most Reverend Thomas V. Dolinay, DD, who be- Byzantine Catholic Church. In addition to this, ed the public schools in Palmerton and graduated came the First Bishop of the Van Nuys Eparchy he also established a Deacon Formation Program; from Central Catholic High School in Allentown, (now the Eparchy of Phoenix) and the Second reintroduced the practice of priests the wearing PA. After graduation, he enrolled in Saint Vin- Metropolitan of Pittsburgh; Bishop pectoral crosses; and introduced six regional syn- cent’s College, Latrobe, PA and, in 1944, he be- Andrew was our second Auxiliary Bishop; and cellate Wedding Jubilee celebrations in the Ep- gan his studies for the priesthood. He graduated Bishop George Kuzma, became our third Auxil- archy instead of one centrally located celebration. from Saint Procopius College Seminary in Lisle, iary Bishop and, later, became the Second Bishop At the same time, he extended the wedding jubi- IL with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy of Van Nuys. in 1948. He completed his theological studies at lee invitations from once every 25 years to once our own Byzantine Catholic Seminary in Pitts- every five years. burgh, PA. The Most Reverend Daniel Ivancho, His bishops of the Metropolitan DD, then of Pittsburgh, ordained Father Church named Bishop Andrew as the Episcopal Andrew Pataki to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ Chair of the Inter-Eparchial Law Com- in the Seminary Chapel on February 24, 1952. mission which helped in the formation of the The newly-ordained priest was assigned to Particular Law for our Metropolitan Church. This Saints Peter and Paul Church in Braddock, PA; Particular Law was put into action in October of Saint Pius X Church, Pittsburgh; Saints Peter and 1999. In 2001, with the unexpected death of our Paul Church, Endicott, NY; and Saint Nicholas Metropolitan Judson Procyk, Bishop Andrew, be- Church in Lorain, OH. He spent eight years in ing the senior bishop of our Metropolitan Church, Lorain and accomplished a major building proj- became the Administrator of the Metropolia, ect - a parochial school and convent. He was Episcopal Ordination in 1983 overseeing the Province until the new Metropoli- later appointed Pastor of Saint John Chrysostom with Bishop Michael (left) and tan was chosen. This would be the Most Reverend Church in Pittsburgh, PA. From Pittsburgh, he Bishop (later, Cardinal) O’Connor (right). Basil M. Schott, OFM, DD, who was, at the time, was sent to Rome, to pursue graduate studies in the Third Bishop of Parma. At the age of 80, in 2007, Bishop Andrew submitted his petition for and received Bachelor and Licentiate In 1984, upon the death of the Most Rever- retirement, which was granted by Pope Benedict Degrees from the Pontifical Institute for Oriental end Emil Mihalik, DD, the First Bishop of the XVI. Studies. Upon returning to the United States after Parma Eparchy, Bishop Andrew was appointed his studies, it had been decided that he assume the Second Bishop of Parma, OH. During his In his retirement years, Bishop Andrew still the duties of of the Byzantine Catholic 11-year service in Parma, he restructured the ad- maintained an active ministry. He served at Saint Seminary of Saints Cyril and Methodius in Pitts- ministrative boundaries of the Eparchy. He es- George parish in Linden, NJ and was the Admin- burgh, PA. Along with is administrative duties at tablished three Syncellates (Episcopal Vicariates) istrator of Saint Nicholas in Perth Amboy, until the Seminary, he also taught courses in Pastoral and appointed three Syncellae (Episcopal Vicars) his untimely death on December 8, 2011, as a re- Theology, Canon Law, Byzantine Chant and the to head up these regions, and then promulgated sult of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle ac- Ruthenian Language. a more standardized form of the Divine Liturgy cident. of Saint John Chrysostom, the Divine Liturgy of Pope Paul VI honored the then Father Pataki Bishop Andrew was left a strong legacy by Saint Basil, and the Liturgy of the Presanctified with the title of Monsignor and the rank of Prel- Bishop Michael. He built upon it faithfully, thus Gifts. He also set up an Eparchial Assembly and ate of Honor, and appointed him to the Pontifi- strengthening and enabling our Eparchy to con- Presbyteral Council and other structure to benefit cal Commission for the Revision of the Eastern tinue for a long time to come. Code of Canon Law in 1974. Five years later he the Eparchy. was appointed the Pastor of Saint Mary Church (To be continued)

Encounter 2014 Encounter of the Eastern Catholic Churches Together in Christ, Orlando, FL January 31-February 2, 2014

The bishops of the Eastern Catho- Congregation of the Oriental Con- for more events of this kind; hence the lic Churches of the U.S.A. and Canada gregation in the person of Cardinal announcement of this latest Encounter recently announced that an “Encounter Daoud, then of the Congrega- under the spiritual guidance of Bishop of the Eastern Catholic Churches – tion. Nicholas J. Samra of the Eparchy Together in Christ” will be held from Owing to the success of these two (Diocese) of Newton, MA. January 31 to February 2, 2014 at the Encounters, the Bishops took the Bishop Samra is the vice-president Renaissance Hotel, Orlando, FL. unusual step of conducting the En- of the Eastern Catholic Associates, The concept of the “Encounter” counter 2012 in Cleveland, OH; Hill- as the organization of the Bishops is began in 1999 in Boston, MA with sborough, NJ and El Segundo, CA. collectively known, and the Eastern the approval and encouragement of That event, which was really one event Catholic Conference of Eparchial (di- the Holy See of Rome. A subsequent in three locations, won the admiration ocesan) Directors of Religious Educa- gathering was held in Chicago in 2006 of the faithful of the Eastern Catholic tion which is under the aegis of the with representation of the Vatican Churches, who expressed the desire ECA. NOVEMBER 2013 Eastern Catholic Life Page 7

Road Trip! Wyoming Valley Parishes Visit Hidden Gems Exhibit

n Thursday, June 27, 2013, forty enthu- admiration, and quite a few photographs, the art siastic patrons of the arts from the five patrons gathered up their box lunch, boarded the ByzantineO Catholic Parishes of the Greater Wyo- bus and headed for the next stop in their destina- ming Valley of Northeast PA gathered at Saint tion - the Crossings Outlets in Tannersville, fol- Mary Church in Wilkes-Barre for a bus trip to lowed by dinner at Mount Airy Casino Resort in see the special exhibit, “Hidden Gems - Art of Mount Pocono, PA. the Transcarpathian School and Treasures of the Among those attending the Heritage Tour in- Eastern Church.” cluded Sister Theodosia, Sister Regina, Deacon The special exhibit ran for a limited time Basil Soroka, and Father James Hayer. The tour throughout the summer months at the Eparchial was also part of the special pre-anniversary ac- Heritage Gallery in Woodland Park, NJ. The ex- tivities hosted by Saint Mary Church in Wilkes- hibit was part of the Eparchy’s 50th anniversary Barre in anticipation of their 125th Anniversary. celebration. ligious decorative arts, including fine iconography The Wyoming Valley Parishes are served by Fa- and liturgical accessories from Russia and Greece. Most of the exhibition focused on the Eparchy’s ther James Hayer, Father Mykahylo Prodanets, collection of paintings from artists of the Trans- On hand at the exhibit was Maureen French of the Father Gary Mensinger, Deacon Basil Soroka, carpathian School, especially Josif Bokšaj and Eparchial Chancery staff who noted the museum Deacon Edward Frey, Deacon Lawrence Worlin- Adalbert Erdelyi. Also included in the exhibit highlights to the guests. Following guided tour of sky, with the ministry of Sister Theodosia Alishof- were examples of the Eparchy’s collection of re- the exhibit, complete with many questions, much ski, OSBM and Sister Regina Adams, OSBM. Page 8 Eastern Catholic Life NOVEMBER 2013

Remembering Bishop Michael Dudick A Reflection Given by Mother Marija of Holy Annunciation Monastery, Sugarloaf, PA

Father Anthony Skurla, Provincial-Custodian shrewd. I marveled at what I call his “Bishop and the Sybertsville Community, who became Dudick tactic” – to overcome opposition by a first community to us. My long-term mem- kindness and a thoughtful gift! He was respect- ory recalls the Chancery staff who surrounded ful to include all participants, and it seemed the and assisted Bishop Michael - Msgr. Dzurisin, This reflection was presented on July 28, 2013 at the whose investment skill benefited us greatly - closing of the “Hidden Gems” Exhibit at the Epar- together with Msgr. Misulich, Msgr Senetsky, chial Gallery in Woodland Park, NJ. The formal title and Msgr. Moneta. Three Auxiliary Bishops: was, “Sunday Afternoon Reflections with Mother Bishop Thomas Dolinay, Bishop Andrew Pataki Marija: The Life and Times of Bishop Dudick.” and Bishop George Kuzma served the Divine Liturgy for us. The Basilian became our friends very early on – especially, Sister Helen Introduction Schott, Mother Christopher, and Sister Miriam. ecalling, recounting, reminiscing about Bishop Michael is one of our commu- Bishop Michael - nity’sR favorite pastimes, keeping alive precious a man, a memory, a gift, our Bishop, memories of years we shared with this wonderful human being, and true Servant of God. Bishop our temporal founder, our Father, our Michael was first and foremost a man of faith. , our blessing. All that he did was for the good of the Church opposition got extra care. Bishop Michael was - of his beloved Byzantine Church in the Epar- church-oriented, and had much experience - chy of Passaic. The founding of our Monastery so his unusual intelligence made him conver- by Bishop Michael enabled us to pray for his sant with canonical procedures. He enlisted the people. This demonstrated to us his fine qualities proper and qualified personnel. It seemed to me, of faith in prayer, and desire for the well-being with regards to our foundation, that his entire of his flock. area of activity had a supernatural aura – he was The gathering last Thursday ( July 25) was a optimistic of the outcome; a good work, faith- testimony to Bishop Michael’s work of decades- inspired, accompanied by prayer to God our preserving the heritage of his Ruthenian people, Lord and the Theotokos to help us. Once under- as captured in art by outstanding artists of his taken, he was tireless in sustaining communica- family’s homeland - Transcarpathia. By nature, tion - with higher superiors, possible candidates; Bishop Michael was generous, he was a “giver.” enlisting religious advisors for us; maintaining It has been said that “greatness is achieved by a positive attitude. At one point when the out- those who put themselves at the service of a come was uncertain, seemingly impossible, he cause greater than themselves.” Bishop Michael was looking at all workable alternatives; always did this by collecting, over a lifetime, “Hidden respecting our understanding of our vocation, Gems” once again available for admiration, in- which was for us, the essential thing; not flinch- spiration and profit. For all who remember Bish- ing from expenditure of sums and his own time op Michael, June 6th was a day of joy, and of res- and strength. Each of these phrases is a possible toration. All of us felt Bishop Michael’s kindly Early years heading for an event that I recall very clearly. presence. All of us are grateful to Father Edward When did we first meet Bishop Michael Dudick? Cimbala, Administrator of the Eparchy of Pas- What was the occasion? On Sept 20, 1974 Bishop saic, and the Chancery staff who made the lovely Michael came to our Monastery in Elysburg, PA afternoon possible. in reply to my letter to discuss the possibility of The above “introduction” was written to a Byzantine Monastery of Carmelite Nuns. Did thank Father Ed and his colleagues for that the Eastern Church, the Ruthenian Eparchy of memorable afternoon, June 6, 2013. Responding Passaic need or want the monastery that we felt now to a request for a fuller account, I begin with God was calling us to found? Only the Bishop others whom we met through, or were sent to was competent to answer that question. Father us by Bishop Michael, particularly the Byzantine had advised me to write to Bish- Franciscans whose presence is deeply woven into op Michael Dudick, and include his name as a our story of 37 years. First, there was a young Fa- recommendation/reference. Bishop’s reply was ther Basil Schott, later to be Metropolitan Arch- immediate, suggesting we meet with him in two bishop Basil Schott; then, there was a very young weeks, on September 20th. I can still see him - William Skurla, [even before he was “Father”]; so unassuming, offering us Lifesavers candy (be- cause he needed one) and telling us that for 10 years he had wanted a community of contempla- Bishop Michael could be counted on for tive nuns to pray for his Eparchy. He told us that understanding, readiness to assist and for even would help us. the little things. He never failed us - and in even Bishop Michael’s own goodness was prob- little matters he was constant. Little matters: ably what enabled him to trust others - like us, he visited us every 2 weeks from 1977 until his complete strangers, save for Father Ciszek’s rec- mother’s death. Every year he came for Divine ommendation. He certainly had deep faith and Liturgy and had dinner with the community on reliance on Divine assistance to realize a project, Easter Monday and December 26th. At Easter, if it was God’s will. On the human level he was he came with a huge chocolate bunny, ordered NOVEMBER 2013 Eastern Catholic Life Page 9

Remembering Bishop Michael Dudick A Reflection Given by Mother Marija of Holy Annunciation Monastery, Sugarloaf, PA

early in Great and we always took a Com- choose to be happy.’” measured man and made a daily purchase - even munity photo with him and the bunny. He loved though the items were all there from day-one. One time, when I knew he had a cross, a ice cream and also buttermilk. Once the sales- We were amused that blonde angels (tree or- particular suffering , he said: “we must accept woman at Pecora’s Dairy asked us the name of naments) were his favorite and the angels with all the good Lord sends and work our way to the lovely priest “who brings you ice cream and black hair merely tolerated. buttermilk?” When close to his death, we Sisters visited Bishop wanted to secure the canonical erec- him daily – whether in the hospital or the nurs- tion of our Monastery. This meant work for ing home. We maintained a round-the-clock him. Because of health concerns, the Carmelite presence with Bishop Michael. Two Sisters, Chapter elected a new Superior General and this both former nurses, Sister Marie Helen and Sis- was [to us] sudden and unexpected. The consent ter Therese, alternated staying nights with Bish- of the new Father General was required for our op Michael. Eventually, they decided that they getting canonical erection. Bishop Dolinay told would both would stay with the Bishop (think- me that Bishop Dudick went to Florence, Italy ing he might not want to choose between them). (the place of the General Chapter) with transla- That night, June 30, in Pentecost Week, Bishop tors requesting the new General’s support. Fa- Michael fell asleep in the Lord. Both Sisters ther Felipe immediately agreed. When the Re- were with him. script did come in 1980 it was “given as a mark of the special esteem of this Sacred [Oriental] Congregation for Most Reverend Michael Du- dick.” That a new monastery with only three Heaven.” He loved the Divine Liturgy and came nuns of solemn profession was given canonical daily to Vespers as well as to celebrate the Divine erection and permission to accept and profess Liturgy. Returning after months of hospitaliza- candidates, was indeed a mark of special esteem. tion and rehab following a hip replacement and heart attack, he was very frail and a bit shaky. He needed a wheelchair. It was Thursday in Holy Week, but he remembered all parts of the Divine Liturgy, and his voice grew stronger as the Lit- urgy progressed. With tears in his eyes (his drew ours) he said: “I did it! I can still celebrate. I don’t have to retire.” Later, he frequently remarked – “The Liturgy is something to live for.”

We were privileged (it was his request) that he lay in state, first in our Chapel. That after- noon, seeing a white veil behind me, I thought it was a . I was surprised to see that it was the Orthodox Metropolitan of the OCA who said: “I had to come for my good friend Bish- Retirement op Michael.” Bishop Michael’s strong Catholic These years are certainly the most vivid and Faith strengthened and enabled him to be kind, precious. He was in robust health in 1996, and respectful, and always a great friend. His life loved his home in Brookhill where he was ready might provide a recipe, and surely an example, to help out whenever a priest might ask his help for unity. These are a few of many incidents that or to fill in. The gradual realization of exclusion come to my mind. I am sure others who knew hit him hard - and caused us concern about his Bishop Michael over a longer span of years, and blood pressure after a fainting incident. So, early more intimately, could enlarge this treasure chest on, we Sisters were monitoring this several times Bishop Michael was a writer and he kept all of memories of a true Servant of God and lover a week. his homilies of past years in good order. Every of his people. Sunday and Feast Day he was prepared for a ser- One day, Bishop remarked to a young Sis- mon. He had re-read and updated the each one ter: “I was a great man.” To which she replied, he would use. In later years, he requested an en- “Bishop you still are a great man.” And, quietly larged copy for easier reading. he said, “No, not now, but once I was.” And Christmas! I think it was, in part, his When a young Sister about to begin her love for beauty and art, but whatever the reason, profession retreat, explained her upcoming ab- his decorations were up in very early December! sence, Bishop asked: “Are you happy?” Her reply, Only with the approach of Lent could we per- “Yes, of course I am happy.” suade him to let us remove them. For years he He paused a moment, before answering: and his brother-in-law, Vincent, unpacked and “When you are young it is easy to be happy. But decorated the Christmas tree and decorated ev- when you are old, it is a choice. You must want ery room and window of his residence. Bishop to be happy and know that God wants your hap- Michael was also a bargainer - he prided himself piness. Look at the sky, see the flowers and say, ‘I on a good deal - even in our gift shop! He was a Page 10 Eastern Catholic Life NOVEMBER 2013

Seasonal ReflectionsMsgr. John. T. Sekellick, JCL

The Holy Angels

s part of the prayers and ceremonies of archangels, tens of thousands of angels, Cherubim the Holy Mysteries of Christian Initia- and Seraphim, six-winged many eyed, soaring tion A(Baptism, Chrismation and Holy Eucharist), aloft on their wings, singing, shouting crying out our Church through the ministry of the priest, and saying the triumphal hymn: Holy, Holy, Holy chants this prayer, in part: “O Eternal One, Lord is the Lord of Hosts….Hosanna in the highest.” and Master .... during his/her lifetime, give him/ Our Church sets Mondays in the week to her the companionship of an angel of light to commemorate the angelic hosts and, in particu- rescue him/her from every snare lying in his/her lar we mark November 8th each year remember- path, from the encounter of the evil one, from the ing the holy Archangel Michael and all Angels. noonday demon and every evil imagination….” Among the Akafthist hymns, there is one special Thus, from the very beginning of our spiritual life, to the Guardian Angel. In the private morning we are given the gift of a guardian angel to accom- prayers of the Book of Hours accorded to Saint pany us through this life and into the next. Peter the Studite, we read, “O Holy Angel of Angels are powerful heavenly and immortal Christ: in homage I come to you, my holy guard- beings, created without physical body or form. The ian who, since my baptism have been assigned to term angel comes from the Greek angelos meaning me to protect my body and soul. I beseech your a messenger. Their function is a comforting assur- powerful intercession. I have often offended you ance of God’s care for us. They have an intellect by my indolence and bad habits. You are without and free will and are capable of both obedience stain in your glory, and I have often driven you and rebellion as recounted in the Book of Revela- away by my sins. I pray and beseech you, most tion, chapter 12, verses 7-9. As God’s messengers leading him to life.” Angels surround us with their holy guardian, be merciful to me, your sinful and they appear to important biblical figures, deliver watchful care. unworthy servant. Be my defender and aid me judgments, punishments and guidance. against my enemies. Through your intercession, The Church benefits from the mysterious and make me worthy to be a partaker of the kingdom Tradition ascribes a type of hierarchy among powerful help of angels. In our Liturgy, we sing of God with all the saints forever. Amen.” angels in nine choirs designated as: Seraphim, so meaningfully representing their mystical pres- Cherubim, Thrones, Dominations, Principalities, ence among us “…that we may receive the King As we observe the solemn Feast of the Arch- Powers, Virtues, Archangels and Angels. of all, invisibly escorted by angelic hosts.” We pe- angel, Michael and all the Heavenly Hosts, may tition for “an angel of peace, a faithful guide and we thank God for providing an angelic compan- As partakers of the Beatific Vision before the guardian of our souls and bodies.” We ourselves ion. Remembering that we are never alone, may Throne of God, angels lovingly intercede for us. are thankful to God through the Liturgy, even we turn to our guardian angel in moments of Saint Basil the Great explains, “Beside each be- though there stand before Him “thousands of temptation as well as for any need. liever stands an angel as protector and shepherd

Respect Life Forum By Richard Doerflinger Shutting Down the Facts

t this writing the impasse ward implementation. Now a final Of course the bishops’ letter said more sweeping proposals to delay that has shut down most rule has been issued, making little nothing of the kind. And a second or “defund” the entire health care federalA government operations is in change in an “accommodation” that letter from the bishops’ conference reform act – proposals the bishops its tenth day, with each major party gives no adequate relief to faith- urged Congress to serve the basic have not supported, instead seek- blaming the other for this terrible based charitable and educational needs of the poor and vulnerable in ing to address specific problems that situation. Recently a pro-abortion institutions – and it will be imposed its funding decisions and to avoid prevent many people from embrac- web site, called RH Reality Check on these organizations beginning a shutdown, as it managed to do in ing the benefits of expanded health (“RH” for “Reproductive Health”), January 1. Hence this final plea that 2011. There was never any threat to coverage in good conscience. created a brief flurry of commentary Congress address the rule’s threat to oppose these bills, much less to shut Expanding access to health care by claiming to find the real culprits: religious liberty and freedom of con- down the government. for those in need, while respecting the Catholic bishops! science before the year is out. The bishops’ critics apparently everyone’s moral and religious con- The group noticed that the bish- RH Reality Check has never assume that conscience protection victions, is a very sensible middle ops’ conference wrote to House and liked Catholics. Last year its senior would kill any funding bill of which ground – the kind of compromise Senate members the week before the legal analyst wrote that “the Catholic it is a part. But that’s quite a claim. that might help get government shutdown, once again asking them Church is one of the few, if not the Congress has routinely been approv- moving again, if enough members to include the policy of the Health only religion that is fundamentally ing conscience clauses as part of its of Congress listen. So sensible, it Care Conscience Rights Act (HR antithetical to any notion of women’s funding bills for many years – in- seems, that the anti-Catholic crowd 940, S. 1204) in “must-pass” legisla- reproductive health, freedom, and cluding a broad religious exemption has to make up bogus stories to try tion like the Continuing Resolution justice.” But this time it made two from the contraceptive mandate in to derail it. or debt limit bill. The bishops have giant leaps: (1) If the bishops care federal employees’ health plans. And [Mr. Doerflinger is Associate Di- been making similar requests for about this issue, they must not care on its own merits, the conscience rector of the Secretariat of Pro-Life many months, during which the Ad- about anything else in the funding bill the bishops now support would Activities, U.S. Conference of Catholic ministration’s mandate for including bills, and (2) they must be demand- handily pass the House, and last year Bishops. To learn about the bishops’ ad- contraceptives, female sterilization, ing that the government shut down received 48 votes in the Senate – just vocacy on conscience rights, visit www. and some abortifacient drugs in al- if they can’t get their way. short of a majority. The current con- usccb.org/conscience.] most all health plans has moved to- gressional impasse is, in part, over NOVEMBER 2013 Eastern Catholic Life Page 11

Remembering Blessed Bishop Romzha My Visit to the Tomb of the Blessed Bishop Martyr By Cantor Mike Komishock

n August, my wife Marisue and I had an op- On October 27, 1947, on his way home from a portunity to visit the Transcarpathian region parish visitation, the bishop’s horse drawn carriage of EastenI Europe. One of our stops was the Holy was deliberately run off the side of the road by a Cross Cathedral in Uzhorod, . The relics Soviet military truck. Men jumped out of the truck of Blessed Bishop Theodore Romzha, whose Feast and began beating the bishop and the five priests Day is observed on , are enshrined in and deacons who were accompanying him. Bish- Holy Cross Cathedral. op Romzha would have been beaten to death if it wasn’t for a passerby who saw the carriage “acci- The original church (later to become Holy dent” and stopped to help. When the assailants saw Cross Cathedral) was completed in the year 1646. the Good Samaritan approaching, they quickly fled It was financed by one of the largest landholders in into a nearby field. The bishop was badly injured the Kingdom of Hungary, the Drugeth noble fam- but still alive. He was taken to a hospital where, ily. Originally part of a Jesuit Monastery, the edi- after a few days, he began making good progress fice was turned over to the Greek Catholic Church recovering from his injuries. But the secret police in 1773. Renovated to its present design in 1848, would have none of this. They formulated yet an- the church remained under the control of Greek other plot to finish off the bishop. Catholics for 176 years. Late on the night of October 31st, a from Unfortunately, at the end of World War II, the Order of Saint Basil who was assigned to help things started to change for the worse in Eastern nurse the bishop back to health was suddenly dis- Europe. Joseph Stalin and the occupying Commu- missed and replaced by a nurse who was appointed nist regime wanted to disband the Greek Catholic by the Communist regime. A few hours later the Church of Transcarpathia. Numerous priests were bishop was found dead in his hospital bed. The ap- being arrested by the NKVD secret police and sent pointed nurse poisoned him with an injection pro- to forced labor camps in Siberia and elsewhere. in a side chapel inside the Cathedral, are the rel- vided by the head of the NKVD Laboratory. Years Greek Catholic Churches were being closed or ics of Blessed Bishop Theodore Romzha. Bishop later, research done in Soviet archives proved the turned over to Orthodox Church jurisdiction. Romzha was appointed Apostolic Administrator bishop’s poisoning was personally ordered by a ris- Holy Cross Cathedral was no exception. On of the Eparchy of on September 24, ing star in the Communist Party, Nikita Khrushev. February 20, 1949 the Communist regime con- 1944 at the young age of 33. He was a beloved and Forty-four years after Bishop Romzha’s death, fiscated the Cathedral and gave it to the Russian well-respected bishop who did all he could, both on June 27, 2001 Pope John Paul II celebrated a Orthodox Church where it remained for the next spiritually and financially, for the people of the ep- Divine Liturgy in the city of L’viv, Ukraine. At 42 years. Finally, with the fall of the Soviet Empire archy. that ceremony, the Pope beatified Bishop Theo- coupled with the declaration of Ukrainian inde- One such example was a 1947 pilgrimage dore Romzha who gave his life for the church he pendence, Holy Cross Cathedral was returned to which the bishop organized in celebration of the believed in and for the people he loved. Bishop its rightful owner, the Greek Catholic Eparchy of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Over Romzha himself once said, “to die for Christ is Mukachevo, on October 10, 1991. 80,000 people from Transcarpathia participated to live for eternity”. His remains were enshrined Enshrined in a glass-front tomb, and located in that pilgrimage. In the late 1940’s, the Com- during a solemn ceremony in Uzhorod’s Holy munist atheistic authorities were getting bolder Cross Cathedral on June 28, 2003. Vicnaja Pam- and bolder in their takeover of the Greek Catholic jat, Eternal Memory to Bishop Theodore Romzha. Church. The authorities couldn’t overlook such a large gathering of people who loved God and the Greek Catholic Church. Soon after the pilgrim- Cantor Mike Komishock is from Saints Peter age, the NKVD secret police began formulating a and Paul Byzantine Catholic Church plot to anonymously dispose of the beloved Bishop in Beaver Meadows, PA where Romzha. Father James Demko is Pastor.

Cathedral of the Holy Cross Relics of the Blessed Bishop Icon of Blessed Bishop Theodore

My father my father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen! Upon a cart as upon his bishop’s throne, Theodore has been carried beyond the sanctuary veil. Let fall, O father, your mantle of prayer, and beseech Christ to save our souls! (Tropar of the Blessed Bishop Martyr) Page 12 Eastern Catholic Life NOVEMBER 2013

Faith and Community Issues By Father Carmen Scuderi, OFM, Ed.D., P.C.C. Marriage, Love, and Respect for Human Life More than just regulating birth...

ow many children per fam- Pastorally, the Council mem- Holy Spirit the “Lord and Giver of ily are enough; how many bers realized the difficulties which Life” (Nicene Creed) who entrusts are tooH much? Is economic “conve- the modern family faced and still to humankind the sacred duty of nience” or “necessity” the sole criteria faces daily. The tension between rais- safeguarding life as its steward. It is for making “the decision”? Where is ing a family and paying the bills is in the very act of safeguarding life the balance to be found between a very real. Maintaining the delicate that we define to the world our dig- burning desire for one’s spouse and balance between fidelity to married nity as human persons. the necessity of abstinence in the love and the responsibilities of hav- The Council Membership made face of too many children to care ing and raising children from an eco- it clear that Life is sacred at all stages for properly? Where does God “fit” nomical perspective can be daunting! of its existence, from conception on into all of this? These are some of the The Council membership also val- it must be treated with utmost care marital love and procreation finds many questions asked by married idly observed the difficult challenge and respect. In the words of the appropriate and balanced expres- couples facing the prospect of bear- of keeping intact “the practice of council: sion. This expression and respon- ing and raising children. faithful love and the complete in- sibility finds its place when ques- timacy of their lives” (§ 51 Married Abortion and infanticide are The Vatican Documents speak tions of birth regulation come to Love and Respect for Human Life). If abominable crimes. Man’s sexuality in broad, general terms regarding the the foreground of consideration. The one cannot find marital needs met and the of reproduction won- answers to the issues just mentioned. Council plainly eschews methods of within the union, nature will tend drously surpass the endowments of The conditions are complicated with control that violate the principles set to find satisfaction elsewhere; hence lower forms of life; therefore the acts the recent changes in our economic forth by the teaching authority of the temptation to infidelity is strong. proper to married life are to be or- and social issues of this century and the Church in its role as interpreter Infidelity’s most vulnerable victims dered according to authentic human era. Global economy is witnessing of Divine Law. As the Membership are the children. The actions of the dignity and must be honored with a meltdown of catastrophic propor- stated: parents speak more eloquently than the greatest reverence (§51 Lumen tions, the amount of unemployment any words could. The result is a Gentium: Married Love and Respect Let all be convinced that human unparalleled in recent history, the breakdown in credibility leading to for Human Life). life and its transmission are realities financial collapse of whole countries cynicism on the part of the children whose meaning is not limited by the and a general instability in govern- The Council members call the toward their education in the faith horizons of this life only: their true ments causes a “trickle-down-effect” Christ-living man and woman to along with any further increase in evaluation and full meaning can only to the very family structure itself. a higher order of life experience, in the family membership. be understood in reference to man’s During the pontificate of soon-to- trying to make a decision between eternal destiny (§ 51 Married Love be-Saint, “the Good Pope,” John In the area of proposed solu- “married love with the responsible and Respect for Human Life). XXIII Issues of birth control, abor- tions, there are some that though transmission of life” (§51 Married tion, family planning were just be- proposed, are not options in the Love and Respect for Human Life). Since the time of the Second ginning to move into the public belief system of Catholicism, the The objective criteria are drawn from Vatican Council many teachings forum especially with the Supreme biggest of which is abortion. In the the nature of humanity in person and have come forward. In all, the sanc- Court decision in the Roe vs. Wade words of the Council membership, action. They completely assent to the tity of life and the sacredness of its trial. The teachings of the Catho- “the church wishes to emphasize full meaning of what self-giving and transmission have been upheld with- lic Church needed to be updated in that there can be no conflict be- procreation, as experienced through out exception. In coming articles an presentation so that the public find tween the divine laws governing the the phenomenon of true and perma- attempt to look at some of these the teaching of the Church contem- transmission of life and the foster- nent love, present to all of creation. teachings will be attempted, begin- ning with John Paul II’s document, porary and applicable without com- ing of authentic married love” (§51 For the Council Membership, promising the Revealed Truth. Married Love and Respect for Human Familiaris Consortsio, The Christian marital Chastity is the method and Family in the Modern World. Life). It is God, in the Person of the virtue by which the expression of Byzantine Seminary School Year Opens Passaic Priest Appointed to Serve as Spiritual Director

PITTSBURGH, PA – The Divine Liturgy for the opening of the school year was celebrat- ed at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of Saints Cyril and Methodius, Pittsburgh, PA on Tuesday, September 3rd. On hand to celebrate the Divine Liturgy was Bishop Gerald (Dino) of the Eparchy of Phoenix. This school year also marks the arrival of Fa- ther Frank Hanincik, a priest of the Eparchy of Passaic, who has been appointed to serve as Spiri- tual Director of the Seminary. In photo, left to right, are: Seminarian Bryan Scotton; Academic - Father George Gallaro; Seminarian Thomas Moses; Father Wes Izer (visit- ing from the Eparchy of Phoenix); Spiritual Direc- tor - Father Frank Hanincik; Bishop Gerald (Dino); Rector - Father Kurt Burnett; Sub Deacon Bogdan Savula (visiting from Uzhorod); Sub Deacon Mi- chael Bezruchka, John Russell, and Seminar- ian Lewis Rabayda. NOVEMBER 2013 Eastern Catholic Life Page 13

Byzantine Liturgy at Saint Ann Novena Metropolitan William Celebrates Liturgy at Scranton Shrine

SCRANTON, PA – Metro- ure of Bishop Andrew Pataki, also tion of the Divine Liturgy. Father politan William recently returned to of blessed memory, there has been a Edward Higgins served as Master of Northeast Pennsylvania and joined continuous presence of the Eparchy Ceremonies, and responses were led the clergy, the faithful, as well as the of Passaic at the Novena to Saint by Cantor Andrew Drozdik of Saint counselors and retreatants from the Ann in Scranton. The annual novena Mary Byzantine Catholic Church in Eparchial Altar Server Retreat Camp, draws thousands of faithful and is Scranton, PA. Thanks to the labors for the celebration of the Byzantine televised to thousands more. It is also of Father Leonard Martin, SJ, Pastor Catholic Divine Liturgy of Saint an occasion of inspiration for many of the Scranton Byzantine Catholic John Chrysostom at the Basilica of others who have never witnessed or Churches, the Basilica was properly Saint Ann in Scranton, PA on the participated in a service of the East- appointed with icons and other litur- occasion of the Novena to Saint Ann. ern Church. gical items proper for the celebration It has been a long-standing tradition of the Byzantine Catholic Liturgy. ten lead to addictions, selfishness, de- Over twenty Byzantine clergy, for the Byzantine Catholics to partic- spair and sin. religious and deacons were in atten- The homilist this year was Father ipate in the novena with the celebra- dance for the celebration of the Di- Paul Weirichs, CP, who spoke about Father Jim Price, CP, Passion- tion of the Divine Liturgy. vine Liturgy. Also in attendance were the nature of real freedom in Christ ist Superior, welcomed Metropolitan Begun during the time of Bishop the altar servers and counselors of the as distinct from the freedom of choice William and later hosted a dinner for Michael J. Dudick, of blessed mem- annual Altar Server Retreat Camp in worldly matters. Such freedoms, the Metropolitan and clergy in atten- ory, and continuing through the ten- who arrived by bus for the celebra- without Christian virtue, he said, of- dance. Page 14 Eastern Catholic Life NOVEMBER 2013

Parish Prays for Peace in the Middle East

East feel having their churches de- Services, and not to forget remem- stroyed. They may destroy their bering 9-11 three days earlier, it is churches, kill their priests, but they the perfect time to pray and fast.” will not destroy their faith in Our Father Sopoliga actually wit- Lord Jesus Christ.” nessed 9-11 while he was en route As a reminder of the month of to Newark Airport on that morning mourning, the parish will dress the to pick up a brother priest while at- church in crimson, which is usually tending a retreat in Long Branch, FORT PIERCE — Saints Cyril J Sopoliga, was so moved by their the colors of the Lenten season where N.J. prayer and fasting are abundant. The and Methodius Byzantine Catholic destruction that he felt the need to “I’ll never forget that day,” said Onion Dome, a unique characteris- Church, 1002 Bahama Ave. in Fort do something. He resorted to the the priest of 33 years. Pierce, FL, the only Eastern Catho- greatest and most powerful response tic of Eastern Christian churches in lic Church on the Treasure Coast, Christians could make, namely Eastern Slovakia, Ukraine and Rus- Special services, which included had declared the month of Sep- prayer and fasting. sia, will be bathed in red. the celebration of the Divine Litur- gy every Wednesday at 7 p.m., were tember a “Month of Mourning” for Father Sopoliga said: “The Sopoliga said: “Our ancestors planned for the entire month. Ev- Eastern Christians both Catholic month of September in which we were persecuted in eryone was invited to participate, es- and Orthodox in the Middle East. celebrated the Exaltation (Finding) by the Communists especially un- pecially those who long for a deeper of the True Cross on September 14, After seeing the destruction der Stalin, and so we know how our more mystical faith experience and and where red is the liturgical color of many ancient Eastern Christian brothers and sisters of the Eastern spirituality. churches in , Father Michael Catholic Churches in the Middle for the celebration of the Divine

Cary, NC Parish Hosts 6th Annual Saint Nicholas Christmas Market Saturday, December 7, 10 am - 3 pm

New, vintage, and hand-crafted gifts and treasures from , , Ukraine, Slovakia, Scandinavia, Italy, Ireland, and including Polish pottery and Russian nesting dolls Hot Slavic or German lunch and European desserts, Piroghi and Kielbasa, kolach rolls, Christmas breads and cookies Exhibit on the life of the real St. Nicholas and tours of our parish icon art Music by the Little German Band http://www.saintnicholasmarket.com/ A European Christmas Market right in the heart of Cary! Saints Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Church 2510 Piney Plains Rd. Cary, NC

Columbia University Lecture on Sub-Carpathia Rus Interwar Sub-Carpathian Rus’: Newly Discovered Visual Sources Tuesday, November 19, 2013 at 12 Noon New York City

Marshall D. Shulman Seminar Room (1219 While Hulka’s expansive and recently un- International Affairs Building, Columbia Uni- covered photographic legacy covers several versity, 420 West 118th Street, New York, NY) parts of Europe and North Africa, Kasinec’s heavily illustrated presentation will focus on Please join the Harriman Institute for a and ‘situate’ those color and hand-colorized lecture by Edward Kasinec (Harriman Insti- photographic images that depict Sub-Car- tute). In his presentation, Edward Kasinec, a pathian Rus’ in the Twenties of the last century. curator, historian of Slavic and East European Hulka’s images represent a marvelous visual cultures, and son of interwar Carpatho-Rusyn evocation of the land and varied peoples, mate- immigrants, considers the legacy of the Czech rial and sacred culture of Sub-Carpathian Rus’. official, editor, translator, and artist, Rudolf Hulka (d. 1961). NOVEMBER 2013 Eastern Catholic Life Page 15

The ByzantineBy Liturgy David Petras, SEOD Taste and See

for this purpose was Psalm 33, be- back to Jesus himself. Here our Lord of hope, “Many are the afflictions of cause of its ninth verse, “Taste and teaches us, “I am the living bread the righteous, and from them all the see that the Lord is good.” The writer ... the bread that I will give is my Lord will rescue them.” (v. 20) of this psalm, living centuries before flesh for the life of the world ... un- Psalm 33, therefore, is the most Jesus, did not have the eucharist in less you eat the flesh of the Son of appropriate Communion Hymn. mind. It meant that we must expe- Man and drink his blood, you do not The Church has used other Com- rience the goodness of God with have life within you. (John 6:51.53)” munion Hymns also. The most com- our whole being, with all our sens- So strong was this saying that some mon one is the Sunday Communion es. For the Christian, who knew of of his followers were “shocked” and Hymn, “Praise the Lord from the the Lord’s gift of his very Body and “no longer accompanied him. (John heavens, praise him in the highest.” he psalms are the source of Blood in the mystical banquet, this 6:66)” Believers saw this as the ful- (Psalm 148:1) This is the beginning hymns traditionally sung in verse takes on a new meaning. It was fillment of Psalm 33. of the well-known “Psalms of Praise,” the TChurch during Holy Commu- an affirmation of faith on the part of Psalm 33 is still used in the Di- which are sung in every Matins, the nion. Though the psalms are a book the believer. The bread that we eat, vine Liturgy. It is the standard Com- morning office of the Church. It of the Old Testament, written long the wine that we drink, the food we munion Hymn for the Presanctified builds on the beginning of Psalm 33, before the Divine Liturgy revealed see with our eyes, is truly the Lord. Liturgy, which often preserves the “I shall bless the Lord at all times by Christ, they are still prophetic and He is good food for our bodies and most ancient traditions. It is most ....” As we receive Communion, our enlighten us about the meaning of souls. Holy Communion. Very often, those properly a Communion Hymn, but whole being is filled with God’s glo- who arranged the Church’s worship The early Christians believed it is also used whenever bread and ry, and we express this in our song. chose psalms because of a key verse unconditionally in the reality of the wine are distributed. These distribu- The Communion Hymn for Pascha, that was appropriate for the occa- mystery of Communion. This verse tions are symbols of the Eucharist, the Feast of our Lord’s resurrec- sion. would have been chosen because its which is the reality of the presence tion, shows that not all Communion prophecy has been fulfilled in the of Christ’s body and blood in the Hymns are from the psalms, for this For example, the Entrance mystery of the Divine Liturgy. God gifts of the Divine Liturgy. Though is a composition of the Church: “Re- Hymn for the feast of the Ascension is truly present to our human senses, infrequently done in our churches ceive the body of Christ, drink the of our Lord is from Psalm 46, “God not in a gross way as if we experi- now, the bread and wine that was of- source of immortality.” ascends amid shouts of joy, the Lord enced eating human flesh and drink- fered but not used in the Liturgy for There were also other verses to amid trumpet blasts. (v. 6)” [I follow ing human blood, but in the form Communion, was distributed to the go with it at one time. This hymn the Greek numbering of the Psalms, of savory bread and sweet wine, so faithful at the end, when people were again emphasizes the reality of the which is used in the liturgical books. that we know that our whole being, leaving. It was called “antidoron,” Eucharist, that it is truly the body of Most modern Bibles follow the He- physical and spiritual, is united with which means “in place of the gifts,” the risen Lord of glory that we re- brew numbering, reasoning that He- the true God. because it was given to all, even those ceive, and that when we taste of the brew was the original language of who could not receive Communion. the Psalms. In most cases, the He- Some see the emphasis on the wine, we also receive the immortal- brew numbering is one more than reality of Communion, that the When the antidoron was dis- ity of the resurrection. The Com- the Greek.] Before the coming of bread and wine of the Divine Litur- tributed this psalm was sung, and munion Hymn chosen for feasts of Christ, for the Jewish believer, this gy become truly the Body and Blood it is still found in the Liturgicon. the Theotokos, Mary, the Mother meant that the one true God was of Christ, as a later theological de- Though the key verse was verse 9, of God, is from Psalm 115: “I shall king over all the world, glorified and velopment. However, this is not true. the rest of the psalm fit into the the- take the of salvation and call exalted above all. The Christian saw As we see from the choice of Psalm ology of Communion. Though the upon the name of the Lord.” Just as in this a prophecy about our Lord, 33, this faith goes back to early times. hymn “May our mouth be filled with God dwelt in the womb of Mary, so who after the glory of his resurrec- In fact, we find it in the Gospels Your praise ...” was taken from Psalm he dwells in us when we receive the tion, would return to the glory he has themselves. Not only in the stories of 70:8, the psalm begins with a simi- chalice of His precious blood, poured with the Father. the mystical supper, where Jesus pro- lar idea: “I shall bless the Lord at all out for life. Again and again, it is the claims bread to be his body and wine times, forever shall His praise be in reality of our union with God that is In the same way, psalms were to be his blood, but also in the Bread my mouth.” Being filled with God, proclaimed. chosen for chanting during Holy of Life discourse in the Gospel of St. our whole being is filled with his Communion. The first psalm chosen John, we see that this teaching goes praise. The psalm ends with a note Letters from the Editor Compiled by Father James Hayer, Editor Always Listen to Moses

burglar broke into a house one night. He “Did you say that?” he hissed at the parrot. “Yes,” shined his flashlight around, looking for valu- the parrot confessed, then squawked, “I’m just trying to If you have an inspiring story or ablesA when a voice in the dark said, “Jesus knows you’re warn you that he is watching you.” The burglar relaxed. here.” “Warn me, huh? Who in the world are you?” article you wish to share you may send it to Father James at: He nearly jumped out of his skin, clicked his flash- “Moses,” replied the bird. “Letters from the Editor” light off, and froze. When he heard nothing more, af- “Moses,” the burglar laughed, “what kind of people ter a bit, he shook his head and continued. Just as he c/o: Saint Mary Church, would name a bird ‘Moses’?” pulled the stereo out so he could disconnect the wires, 695 N. Main St., Wilkes-Barre, PA clear as a bell he heard “Jesus is watching you.” ‘The kind of people that would name a Rottweiler 18705. or E-Mail him at “Jesus.” J He shined his light around frantically, looking for [email protected]. the source of the voice. Finally, in the corner of the “Indeed, the ways of each person room, his flashlight beam came to rest on a parrot. are plain to the LORD’s sight.” (Proverbs 5:21) Page 16 Eastern Catholic Life NOVEMBER 2013

Seminarian Lewis Rabayda Reflections

Fasting - A Spiritual Practice­ and Reminder of Christ’s Sacrifice

wise Church shows her people the way. Church—which the Church greatly desires—the action they omit—and indeed, I believe this to be And that way is continually making more faithful should desire to adhere to the minimum true. Most of the lists of deadly sins or vices have senseA to me. My body is beginning to align itself fasting regulations. The faithful are also required to gluttony as the first vice, because it is said to be the with the yearly liturgical cycles of fasting and feast- regularly participate in the sacraments as pertains seed of all the other vices. Indeed, every week on ing. Since we were made in the “image and like- to their state of life. This is all good for our spiritual Friday I find myself looking in the fridge for left- ness” of God, and since God breathed His Spirit benefit, and ultimately for our salvation. overs, I gravitate towards the meat dishes, and real- into Adam, hence into us, we are both a body ize that I’ve decided to align myself with the prac- So what does our Byzantine Catholic Church and a soul united. So, since my soul is being more tices of the Church. When I find myself out with of America prescribe? (This is the boring, informa- and more conformed to the liturgical cycle of the friends and I begin to salivate at the idea of a gour- tion part of my reflection). There are four fasting Church through the repetition and better under- met burger, I remember that my sacrifice is not just periods through the year: The Phillip’s Fast (No- standing of its prayers, so too is my body beginning because the Church told me to, but my seemingly vember 15-December 24th), The Great Fast, The to desire and take-to the fasting and feasting cycles small sacrifice is one way that I can say to Jesus, “I Peter and Paul Fast (exact dates change from year of the Church year. My body is beginning to desire accept your sacrifice, I remember your sacrifice, and to year), and The Dormition Fast (August 1-14). fasting as a necessary element of its ability to pray, even though this is miniscule in comparison, I give The simple theology behind these periods is that in as is my soul. this up for you, Lord.” The same is true for me on order for us to feast, to celebrate these great events Sunday morning. I am a big-breakfast type of per- Historically speaking, events, practices, po- of the Church, we must first fast in order to prepare son, and I would love to have a not-so-small some- litical parties, international superpowers, etc. go ourselves—so we will be ready to accept the great thing before I go to attend liturgy. But I realize the through cycles. Ups and downs, and ins and outs joy these events bring. Strict abstinence (avoiding spiritual benefit of receiving the first food of the is how humanity corrects itself. The Church is no meat and all dairy) is prescribed for the first day day in the form of the Body and Blood of Christ. different because she is made up of humans. The of the Great Fast and for Good Friday and simple Church has seen many changes in the past 60 years abstinence (no meat) is to be observed all Wednes- Fasting is spiritually beneficial indeed. When to many different aspects of her practice; and for days and Fridays of the Great Fast. Likewise, no we begin to align our spiritual practices with those every action, there is a reaction. But the Church is meat “or an equivalent ” is to be observed of the Church, when we can truly sacrifice from much older than 100 years, and has seen many dif- on all Fridays of the year. We are also to fast from the source of our heart, we will notice how deep in ferent ups and downs throughout her history. So, all solids one hour before reception of the Divine prayer we can get, and how through these actions with 2000 years of history, I can see where we have Eucharist. God will give us the grace to know Him better and been and where we may be headed. Currently, I find to want to live for Him. Beginning on the feast of This is the minimum. But I have found myself reacting to the Church’s practice of fasting the Apostle Phillip on November 14th, the Church through my spiritual journey that doing more— periods—and I’ll tell you why I find more fasting will begin to prepare itself for the arrival of God in fasting more frequently or more intensely than the than is prescribed to be spiritually beneficial. the flesh through the womb of the Theotokos on prescribed legislation—is just as beneficial as: pray- Christmas morning. I invite you to add fasting to The Church is sometimes misunderstood when ing more, attending more Divine Services, reading your regimen of prayer and preparation, so that we she prescribes the fasting regulations. The Church, more Scripture, and reading the texts of the Saints. may all be fully prepared to sing from our hearts, in her wisdom and great mercy, says that in or- I have heard it said that when people begin to be “Glory to God in the highest, and to people on der for the faithful to be in conformity with the lax about their religious practice, fasting is the first earth peace and good will!”

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