Eastern Catholic Life Official Publication of the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic

VOL. LI, NO. 8 AUGUST 2015

Bishop Kurt Ordains Two Deacons

Deacon Thomas P. Shubeck Deacon Peter Turko June 14th at Saint Thomas the Apostle, Rahway, NJ June 21st at Epiphany of Our Lord, Annandale, VA By Debra Bass Photos by Greg Kowalski

ubdeacon Thomas P. Shu- They have three children: Adriana, he Turko family of Fair- Following the liturgy, a reception beck was ordained to the a nursing student at Villanova Uni- fax, VA, had much to was held in the Epiphany Parish Holy Order of the Diacon- versity, Villanova, PA; John, a rising celebrate on Father’s Center. In brief comments, Deacon ateS by Bishop Kurt on Sunday, June sixth grade student at Saint Vincent DayT this year as Subdeacon Peter Peter thanked God, the bishop for 14, 2015, during a Hierarchical Di- Martyr School in Madison, NJ; L. Turko was ordained to the Holy ordaining him, his wife and sons, vine Liturgy at Saint Thomas the and the late Paul Francis, who suc- Order of Deacon by Bishop Kurt at Fr. Basarab, and the parishioners of Apostle Byzantine Catholic Church cumbed to mitochondrial disease at Epiphany of Our Lord Byzantine Epiphany for their support. in Rahway, NJ. the age of eight. As a result of Paul’s Catholic Church in Annandale, VA. illness, Deacon Thomas served for Deacon Turko traces his strong vo- Deacon Thomas is the son of Dr. several years as president of the NY With his sons, Ben, Brian, and cational calling to his teenage years, Paul P. Shubeck and the late Mary Metro Chapter of the United Mito- David in attendance, along with while growing up in Heilwood, PA Shubeck. He was born and raised chondrial Disease Foundation and his wife Carren, Deacon Peter wel- while attending St. John the Baptist in Elizabeth, NJ, where he attended currently is the Director of Psycho- comed this goal in the spiritual jour- Byzantine Catholic Church, Barnes- public schools. Before studying logical Services at the College Semi- ney he began when he entered the boro, PA. He graduated with a BA psychology, Deacon Thomas earned nary of the Immaculate Conception Eparchy of Passaic’s deacon forma- in Sociology from St. Francis Col- degrees in biology (BS, Rutgers) at Saint Andrew’s Hall, Seton Hall tion program in 2004. lege in Loretto, PA, where he met and zoology (MS, Connecticut). University, where he has served his wife of 41 years, Carren Turko. He then taught for a year at the Del- Concelebrating with Bishop Kurt Together they raised their three since November 2005. Since 2011 on Sunday, June 21 were Father barton School and proceeded to he has also been an adjunct profes- sons while Deacon Peter worked in earn degrees in counseling psychol- John G. Basarab, Pastor of Epiphany the financial services industry for sor of pastoral theology at Seton and Msgr. George Dobes. Deacon ogy (MA, Loyola of Maryland) and Hall’s Immaculate Conception Sem- more than 30 years. Deacon Peter is marriage and family therapy (PhD, Nicholas Daddona, Director of Dea- now retired and ready to step into a inary Graduate School of Theology. cons, presented the subdeacon for Purdue). After completing graduate He also served a four year term as new role as deacon at Epiphany. studies, Deacon Thomas held clini- ordination and served as one of the a member the Advisory Council of two deacons at the Hierarchical Di- The ordination on Father’s Day cal positions at Newton Memorial the Byzantine Catholic Seminary. Hospital and Family Service Associ- vine Liturgy. Deacon Elmer Pekarik brought rays of joy and light to the ation of Summit, NJ. He also served Deacon Thomas reflects on his of Epiphany parish also served while Turkos as well as the entire Epipha- for ten years as a medical review ordination: “What a privilege it Deacon Lewis Rabayda, parish vo- ny family on the first day of summer. Continued on page 8 psychologist for the NJ Division of is to have received God’s call to cation, presently assigned at Holy Disability Determinations. the diaconate. As I knelt at the Holy Ghost, Jessup, PA, was the Master of Table on which the Holy Eucharist Ceremonies. Deacon William Sze- Deacon Thomas is married to the lay and Bishop Kurt made the sign wczyk and Deacon Nicholas Sotak former Caroline Rampello, MD. were in attendance. Continued on page 8

-Photo montage from Sicily Father Bujnak celebrates Uniontown and Sloatsburg First Feast Day of Blessed — pages 2—3 milestone—page 5 Pilgrimages—pages 10—12 Miriam Teresa Demjanovich —page 13 Page 2 Eastern Catholic Life AUGUST 2015

I Lift Up My Eyes... A Photo Montage from Bishop George Gallaro’s ordination and enthronement as Bishop in Sicily by Bishop Kurt

Looking down on Palermo, Sicily, on the drive to Bishop George’s pro-cathedral in Palermo. Bishop George did his profession of faith during Vespers at the pro-cathedral.

Bishop-elect George is led around the altar by Bishop Nicho- las Samra. He walks around the altar three times, kissing the corners, and the chief consecrator, while the choir sings the tropars of the martyrs and “Rejoice, O Isaiah.”

Bishop George and Bishop Nicholas Samra after the Divine The (Greek Catholic) pro-cathedral in Palermo, Italy. Liturgy on June 29. Bishop Nicholas was his bishop when Bishop George was a priest of the Melkite Diocese of Newton The (Greek Catholic) Cathedral of Saint Demetrios in (and our Vice-Rector at the Seminary in Pittsburgh). Piana degli Albanesi, Italy.

D. Gallaro has been enthroned as Bishop of Piana trios Salachas, Bishop of the Exarchate in Athens. Father George degli Albanesi near Palermo, Sicily (Italy). In addition to Bishop Kurt, also in attendance Demetrio Gallaro Events included Profession of Faith during Ves- were Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skur- pers of June 27th, 2015, at the Co-Cathedral of la, Father Andrew J. Deskevich, Protosyncellus of consecrated and en- Saint Nicholas of the Greeks at the Martorana the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, and Father James throned as Bishop of in Palermo and Episcopal Chirotonia (Conse- Hess, O.Carm., also from the Archeparchy of cration) at the Cathedral of Saint Demetrius the Pittsburgh. Piana degli Albanesi Great-Martyr in Piana degli Albanesi on Sunday, Article Courtesy Byzantine Catholic June 28th, 2015. In the presence of Cardinal Established over 500 years ago, Piana degli Al- World Paolo Romero, Roman Catholic Metropolitan banesi is the episcopal see of the Italo-Albanian Archbishop of Palermo, and the Christian People Byzantine Catholic Church. ormer Judicial Vicar for the Archeparchy of of the Eparchy, the Chirotonia was conferred by May God grant to his servant Bishop George Pittsburgh and Professor of Canon Law for Bishop Donato Oliverio, Bishop of the Eparchy Peace, Health and Happiness for many blessed theF Byzantine Catholic Seminary of Saints Cyril of Lungro, Bishop Nicholas Samra, Bishop of the years! AXIOS! and Methodius in Pittsburgh, PA, Father George Melkite Eparchy of Newton, and Bishop Dimi- AUGUST 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 3

Up the coast from Palermo is the city of Cefalu. The mosaics here were the warm up for Monreale. After the king died, the The Cathedral in Cefalu is dedicated to the Transfiguration, next king cut off the money, and only the mosaics in the front were finished. so it has a tower for Moses and a tower for Elijah.

Even the cloister at Monreale is mosaic. There are over two hundred columns and every one is different. Even the tops have unique sculpture.

King’s throne at Monreale. Note mosaics above it and the beautiful cosmatesque design, also found on the papal throne at Saint John Lateran in Rome, the pope’s cathedral.

The Cathedral at Monreale is the largest mosaic area in the world. Built by the Norman kings almost nine hundred Even the side aisle at Monreale is astounding (Saint Peter). years ago, the mosaics cover 70,000 square feet. It’s interest- ing to think that before the era of electric lights, no one was really able to appreciate them for their first 800 years.

The Hodogitria Icon is the Icon of the Mother of God The orphanage in Piana taught needlepoint so the girls pointing at Jesus. She is the Patroness of Sicily, and the icon could learn a trade. This is seen everywhere! This one is in the Piana Museum. Food is of paramount importance in Italy. This is only the antipasto. antimension is entirely needlepoint. Page 4 Eastern Catholic Life AUGUST 2015 People You Know Around the Eparchy In Annandale... Nearly 50 fathers and sons gathered for the Epiphany Men’s Club annual “Father-Son Steak Night” at Epiphany of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church (Annandale, VA) to hear from Father Sal Pignato, Vocation Director for the Eparchy of Passaic. Clergy in attendance includ- ed (front row, l to r): Father Nicholas Wyborski, pastor of Saint Nectarios Orthodox Church in Lakeland, Fl (and father-in-law of Epiphany Mens Club member Jim Naccash); Father John Basarab, pastor of Epiphany parish; Father Sal Pignato; and Deacon Elmer Pekarik, deacon at Epiphany parish.

Epiphany Men’s Club fathers and sons with Father Nicholas Wyborski, Father John Basarab, Father Sal Pignato, and Deacon Elmer Pekarik. In Williamsburg... Prosphora Class On Saturday, June 13, 2015, a number of parishioners of Ascen- sion of Our Lord Church in Williamsburg, VA, met for an enjoyable and informative class. Reader Joseph Bernard from Our Lady of Per- petual Help Church in Virginia Beach led a class in prosphora mak- ing. Reader Joseph has been baking this liturgical bread for past 15 years and until recently has done this job on his own. Ascension has benefitted from his baking during this entire time. With Father Alex Shuter and a number of parishioners learning the secrets of perfect prosphora, Ascension will now produce its own bread. Plans are be- ing made to have a number of prayerful baking sessions throughout Reader Joseph handles the dough while instructing parishoners. the year where they will prepare for the sacred banquet. Panachida Following Divine Liturgy, Father Alex Shuter of Ascension of Our Visiting Myrtle Beach Lord Church in Williamsburg, VA, leads the parish community in a Panachida (memorial service) for the servants of the Lord Clem- this Summer? enta, Sharonda , Cynthia, Tywanza , Ethel, Susie, Daniel, Myra and Blessed Basil Hopko Byzantine Catholic Mission Depayne who were recently murdered in South Carolina. May their welcomes you! memory be eternal! The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on the following Sundays at 10 a.m.: August 2nd, 9th, and 16th

For more information call Don and Jean Wirth at 843-249-9502 or Father Conan Timoney 410-302-6996. The Blessed Basil Hopko Mission is located at 3059 Highway 90, Conway, Myrtle Beach, SC It is located between Father Alex Shuter leads the congregation in prayer for the deceased. Routes 22 and 501 on Highway 90. AUGUST 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 5 Father Bujnak Celebrates 50 Years of Ordination McAdoo, PA Father George Bujnak, Pastor Emeritus of Saint Michael Byzantine Catholic Church, McAdoo, PA, celebrated his 50th anniversary of or- dination to the Holy Priesthood with Divine Liturgy of Thanksgiving and a celebratory dinner afterwards. Many parishioners, family, and friends, were in attendance for the Divine Liturgy and the celebra- tory repast, held at Capriotti’s Catering in McAdoo. A good time was had by all.

Jubilarian Father George Bujnak gives remarks. Father George with his family.

Father Donish, Monsignor Puhak, Father Demko, Sisters Regina and Theodosia, OSBM. Parishioners and friends of Father Bujnak.

Family and fFriends of Father Bujnak. Some of Saint Michael’s Guild members.

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 Kurt Burnette, Eparchial Website: Eastern Catholic Press Association, President and Publisher www.EparchyofPassaic.com Page 6 Eastern Catholic Life AUGUST 2015 The Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic Invites:

All ParishionersFamilies • Singles • Seniors Young Adults • Teens • Children

to a continuing celebration of the World Meeting of Families Our Church, Our Family, Our Mission: Called to Love Regional Parish Family Days of Recollection

Dates and Locations Saturday September 19 St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church – Scranton, PA - 8:30 AM Saturday, October 10 St. Therese Byzantine Catholic Church – St. Petersburg, FL - 8:30 AM Saturday, October 17 St. Nicholas – Danbury, CT - 8:30 AM Sunday, October 25 Epiphany of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church Annandale, VA Following 10:30 AM Divine Liturgy Sunday, November 8 St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church – Hillsborough, NJ Following 11:00 AM Divine Liturgy Continental Breakfast and Lunch included at all locations

s the World Meeting of Families closes in Philadelphia, the work of Abuilding up and nurturing the Family is just beginning! This Day of The Presenters Recollection will focus on individual and family spirituality and the mean- Ann M. Koshute, MTS will deliver the Adult track. Ann ing of our vocation to love. Through four presentations, we will explore Je- is Adjunct Instructor in Theology at d St. Joseph’s College of sus Christ’s personal invitation to each of us to live as children of God, called Maine and DeSales University. She obtained her Master of to love and be fruitful as part of a family (single persons, spouses, parents, Theological Studies from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute children, grandparents), and in support of families as friends, neighbors for Studies on Marriage and Family at the Catholic University of America. In addition to working on marriage preparation and parishioners. Whether we are married or single, parents or godparents, and adult faith formation programs, Ann is a retreat leader and aunts and uncles, widowed or divorced, we are members of God’s family, writer. She and her husband Keith are parishioners of St. Ann and this day of fellowship, prayer and time with our extended family—the Byzantine Catholic Church, Harrisburg, PA. Church—will offer ways of strengthening our own family bonds, as well as Marie C. Nester, M.Ed will coordinate and present the pre-K to our personal relationship with Christ. Teen tracks. Marie wrote the God With Us catechetical texts for Grades 3, 4, 5, and 7. She also contributed meditations for Jour- For children and teens: This day of recollection will ask young people of ney Through The Great Fast and Christ Is Born, published by the all ages to discover the priceless treasure they have in God’s love. Through Office of Religious Education, Archeparchy of Pittsburgh. Marie reading Scripture, role playing, talking, and creating, they will learn to rec- is Adjunct Instructor of English at Harrisburg Area Community ognize God is with them in everything they do. The final activity will ask College. She and her husband Luke are members of St. Ann Byz- families to work together to recognize God’s love that has been shared with antine Catholic Church, Harrisburg, PA. They have 3 children and 6 grandchildren. them through family and friends through the ages.

Schedule Event is FREE! Registration - Morning Prayer and Welcome Generously Underwritten by: Session 1 – The Family: Created to Love The Byzantine Catholic Session 2 – The Family: Center of Love Eparchy of Passaic Session 3 – The Family: Fruit of the Union between a Man and a Woman Session 4 – The Family: A Result of Everlasting Love All gather for sharing Family Activity and Liturgy or Closing Prayer

Registration Form Name: ______Address: ______Phone:______E-Mail: ______

Location: ☐ Scranton, PA ☐ St. Petersburg, FL ☐ Danbury, CT ☐ Annandale, VA ☐ Hillsborough, NJ Number of Adults: ______Number and Ages of Children:______Please send completed registration form at least two weeks prior to your Day of Recollection to: Father Ed Cimbala, St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, 1900 Brooks Boulevard, Hillsborough, NJ 088444 [email protected] Questions? Call Fr. Ed Cimbala at 908 725-0615 or contact him by e-mail. AUGUST 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 7 World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia The Compliment in Complementarity By Ann M. Koshute, MTS

ur world is changing at a dizzying – even Each one of us is called by God into an intimate one’s personal decision. Our sexuality is a physi- frightening – pace. Science and technol- friendship with Him, from which the love in all of cal, biological, psychological and spiritual reality. ogyO open us to possibilities never dreamed of by our other relationships springs: spouses, parents The confusion some individuals feel about their our parents and grandparents, and our knowl- and children, siblings, friends, and so on. identities, or about the nature of marriage as the edge of the world around us (and of ourselves) intimate bond of love between a man and woman continues growing. There is much good in this From the beginning, God designed the human for their good and the good of children, is a sad rapid expansion of our horizons, and many im- person for unity within his and her difference. consequence of the Fall. But it doesn’t change provements made to our lives. At the same time, Rather than creating humans of one sex or the the objective reality of sexual difference, or ne- with these changes comes confusion: about our other, God created male and female persons, en- gate the truth of God’s design for family (cf. Gn identities as human persons, and by extension abling them to share in a communion of life and 1:26-18; Gn 2:22-25). Indeed, “It is not good for about the nature of marriage, family, and the love. Male and female are not interchangeable or the man to be alone,” (Gn 2:18), and man and meaning of love. These “big issues” are more random designations that can be altered at will woman become “suitable helpers” for each other than we can tackle in a short column. Yet given by the individual. Though some may attempt to in and through their sexual difference. the changes in “perspective” on who we are, it’s alter their sexuality or “gender identity,” these are important for us to consider what it means that superficial and semantic changes that ultimately Sexual difference and the complementarity in- we are human persons made in God’s image and distort the truth of the person. God’s deliberate herent in it truly is God’s “compliment” to us. He likeness. It is especially important in our current design of sexual difference is a human expression loves and values us so highly that He created us to culture understand that our sexuality is an inte- of the difference-within-unity of God as Holy be like Him: with differences that allow us to be gral part of this image, and that sexual difference Trinity. By creating us male and female God in- united in a communion of love, for the good of is neither random nor accidental. In fact, sexual scribes an aptness for communion (and the abil- our relationship with Him, and the relationships difference is the foundation upon which our ca- ity for this communion to generate new life) in we cultivate with our families and beyond. our bodies. But this sexual difference and its apt- pacity to love, and the institutions of marriage In celebration of the World Meeting of Families and family, are built. ness for communion and new life isn’t just “skin deep.” We are male and female to the core – to our taking place September 22-25, 2015, in Philadel- God is the Creator of the world and all things immortal soul, with its powers of reason and the phia, PA, the Eparchy of Passaic is offering five re- in it – including us. He took nothing and made a ability to act on our choices. As male and female gional Family Days of Recollection. Our Church, world of beauty and wonder. Everything in God’s we are equal, in our humanity, personal dignity, Our Family, Our Mission: Called to Love is a creation (from oceans to plants and animals, to and in imaging God. Yet although we are equal, day of faith, fellowship and celebration of all of you and me) gives Him glory simply by being we are not the same. Men and women are dif- us as members of God’s family and missionar- what it is. While human persons have an intimate ferent, and that difference is very good! (cf. Gn ies of love to the world. The Days are open to all relationship to everything in God’s creation, be- 1:31). It’s only because of sin that this difference adults, and there are children’s’/teen tracks. The ing made in His image and likeness is unique to sometimes causes both internal and external event is FREE and includes continental breakfast us, and it is a special expression of His love for us. conflict and confusion. But from the beginning, and lunch. Email Father Ed Cimbala to register: God is Trinity: a communion of persons who are it was not so. (cf. Mt 19:8) [email protected], or use the registration Father, Son and Holy Spirit. St. John the Evange- form in the ECL. list says that “God is love.” (1Jn 4:8) Therefore, Marriage and family are built upon the commu- as icons (images) of God, we are made to be like nion born of sexual difference. This difference is Him. We are made for love and communion. not a social construct or the “fluid movement” of worldmeeting2015.org The World Meeting of Families will take place in Philadelphia, PA, from Septem- ber 22-25, 2015. This gathering will offer an Adult Congress and a Youth Congress Love is Our Mission 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 The Family Fully Alive 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 family.

Held every three years and sponsored by the Holy See’s Pontifical Council for the Family, the World Meeting of Families is the world’s largest Catholic gather- ing 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 –Philadelphia 2015 is “Love Is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive,” emphasizing the impact of the love and life of families on our society.

We are hopeful that many of our families of the Eparchy of Passaic will partici- pate.

Please go to http://www.worldmeeting2015.org for more information September 22-27 1 and to register. Once you have registered, please forward a copy of your registration to 2 the Eparchy of Passaic at [email protected]. Bishop Kurt is planning a special event that will bring together every- one who will be attending. The Eparchy will also be offering a partial registration reimbursement to families who attend with children.

If you have any questions, please e-mail Father Ed Cimbala at: [email protected] Page 8 Eastern Catholic Life AUGUST 2015 Bishop Kurt Ordains Two Deacons Continued from page 1 Deacon Thomas P. Shubeck Deacon Peter Turko June 14th at Saint Thomas the Apostle, Rahway, NJ June 21st at Epiphany of Our Lord, Annandale, VA By Debra Bass Photos by Greg Kowalski of the cross on the top of my head with the Holy Spirit. as his omophorion rested over it, I felt a strong connection to Christ, My family, friends, fellow parishio- his Bishops, Priests, Deacons, re- ners, Priests and Deacons of the Ep- ligious and faithful over these two archy, and seminarians with whom millennia. I also felt a strong con- I work at Seton Hall in the pews; nection to my Bishop under whom my son, John, serving in the sanctu- I will serve. ary; Father Michael Mondik, Father Steven Galuschik, Deacon Charles To have had the support and en- Laskowski, and my all Priestly col- couragement of my wife, Caroline, leagues, including Priests from Se- and my children, John and Adriana, ton Hall, concelebrating at the Holy has been a true blessing through my Table, were all a great source of af- discernment process—which really firmation to me. kicked into high gear in 2010 -- and through my four years in the forma- I look forward to serving as a Dea- tion program. con of the Eparchy of Passaic and pray that I always be open to the When Bishop Kurt imposed his stirrings of the Holy Spirit to guide right hand over my head and prayed, all that I do and that the lives of the “Divine Grace, which always heals Deacon Saints - Ephrem of Syria, what is infirm and supplies what Francis of Assisi, Stephen, and Phil- Deacon candidate Turko reverences Bishop Kurt while being led around the altar by Deacon Daddona. is lacking, ordains the Subdeacon ip be a source of inspiration as I be- Thomas to be a Deacon,” I saw so gin my Diaconal ministry.” clearly how it is through God’s Grace that I serve in the capacity. Any May God Grant Peace, Health and good that I may do as a Deacon ulti- Happiness to the newly ordained mately comes from my cooperation Deacon Thomas P. Shubeck.

Bishop Kurt awards Father Mondik with the Gold Cross for his service to the Eparchy after Deacon Shubeck celebrates as deacon for the first time.

Ordinands James and Michael chant the Trisagion Prayers before Bishop Kurt

Bishop Kurt imposes hands while reading the prayer of ordination.

Newly-ordained Deacon Turko with his wife, Carren; Father Basarab; Bishop Kurt;, Newly-ordained Deacon Shubeck with his wife, Caroline; daughter, Adriana; and son, John. Monsignor Dobes; and Deacon Rabayda enjoy the meal. AUGUST 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 9 Saint Michael Parish: 100th Anniversary Work Moving Forward Pittston, PA aint Michael Byzantine Cath- cannot be even remotely imagined olic Church committee mem- when driving by and only seeing the bersS are hard at work in the mid- exterior. Many of the visitors, new dle of summer, seen here at their to Saint Michael Church, simply did monthly report session held July 12. not want to leave and stayed to ask While the climax of the year’s work questions. This was a valuable expe- will be November 1, 2015—the An- rience for all participating. niversary Celebration banquet for parishioners, clergy, and friends— While planning a 100th Anniver- work continues to move forward on sary is a formidable task in itself, the details of other upcoming events for parish volunteers have been gearing the community at large, and several up for their church’s Annual Flea parish projects. Market/Ziti Dinner. This major fundraiser is in its 19th year, held Saint Michael Church is located on the weekend of August 1st and at 205 North Main Street, Pittston, 2nd. Doors open at 9 a.m. Satur- PA, and has been a hub parish for day to 4 p.m.; and Sunday 9 a.m. to members from a wide area of Great- 3 p.m.. It’s not only a gigantic flea er Pittston and beyond. The parish- market, but a market that also hosts Standing from left to right: Mike Moran, Felix Zelenowski, Judy Smith, Joseph Cigan, ioners share the spirit of their faith some of the most delicious parish- Irene Cigan, Father Gary Mensinger, Joe Sabach, Margaret Brozzoski, Joe Halat, with their sister parish, Saint Nicho- made ethnic specialties. The return and Dan Fetch. Also present at the meeting, taking photo: Mary Anne Fedor las of Myra, Swoyersville, PA. customers who come for the “best- Pictured around the table from left to right: Betty Davenport, Beatrice Girman, in-the-area” “piggies” (holupki); Linda Hando, Jerry Dziak, Mary Ann Matosky, Mary Colwell, and Pat Stout. The parish recently was one of the homemade pirohi; and halushki, host parishes of the annual Pittston have been definite proof. Both hot social and cultural history. It pres- along to those in the present. Even Church Tour in June, which was a and cold varieties are offered for ents a great opportunity for those of as the appearance of physical build- great success. The church tour in- those who want ready-to-eat or to other ethnic backgrounds, as well, ings change inside and out (and cluded two local churches, Saint freeze and enjoy later. And parish to appreciate and learn more about Saint Michael Church has had many John the Evangelist Roman Catholic members pitch in to make baked the diversity within our communi- transformations), the one thing that Church and Saint Michael the Arch- goods for sale. ty. More details will be announced never changes is faith. And with angel. The highlight of the tour was closer to the event date. This will be faith as the central focus, Saint Mi- a presentation held at Saint Michael But there is more yet to come and a “not to miss” event. chael Parish is resolved to meet all Parish by iconographer Father Tom in the planning at Saint Michael challenges. the Major, a Pittston native. A group Church! An event for the commu- With all of these activities con- of 50 people of all faith denomina- nity is on track for early October, densed into the next few months, Father Gary Mensinger, the pas- future tions learned how icons are created a presentation by members of the and other ideas and goals in the tor, and all the parishioners wel- and their spiritual significance. All Carpatho-Rusyn Society, headquar- works, we can say that the parish- come everyone to “come and see” this took place in the peaceful beau- tered in Munhall, PA. This will be ioners of Saint Michael Parish are and enjoy what’s happening on Au- ty Skilledof the interiorCare/Memory of Saint Care/Rehab Michael’s Countrya focused Kitchens educational program ex- notMemory only Care ambitious, Dining Roombut also Renovation deter- ...... gust 1st and 2nd and in the$125,000 months church. Refrigerator The parish ...... volunteers were ploring the rich ethnic heritage$1,000 and minedMemory to Care make Living this anniversaryRoom ...... year ahead. You might find $65,000something Microwave ...... $275 Memory Care Kitchen/Country Kitchen ...... $115,000 excited about sharing with others history of many of our ancestors. a success. It is the kind of dedica- new to enjoy in a community Juice Dispenser ...... $2,000 Memory Care Connecting Link/Memory Care Loop ...... $65,000 the spiritual and artistic treasures This program will interest anyone landmark turning 100. Coffee Maker ...... $250 tionMulti-Purpose/Activities built upon the mission Room Renovationof the ...... $125,000 inside Ice their Maker/Dispenser church, something ...... that who enjoys genealogy research,$1,000 originalNew Main parish Entry founders Canopy ...... and passed $95,000 Chafing Dishes ...... $500 New Main Kitchen Walk-In Refrigerator/Freezer ...... $75,000 Shelving ...... $500 Refurbish Elevator Cab ...... $24,000 join us in compassionate giving Mount Salad Bar ...... Macrina Manor Renovation$4,000 Rehab Addition Project Connecting Link ...... $40,000 GloryRehab to Courtyard Jesus Christ! Paving ...... spaces” on our grounds where$12,000 the derRehab to achieve Kitchen/Country this, we must Kitchen provide ...... a mindful choice to appeal directly$130,000 to A Book of Memory Because we believe that our ministry of compassionate care gives witness to the sacredness of life at DearRehab Friends, Courtyard Landscaping ...... boundaries between this world$10,000 and comfortableOut-Patient Physical and safe Therapy atmosphere Renovation for you...... rather than to incur the$110,000 expense will be installed to Renovate Resident Room Bathroom ...... the heavenly one are very $6,500fragile. bodyIn-House as well Physical as for Therapy soul. Our Renovation present ...... of an outside development $200,000company. every stage, we have committed to a lofty goal which will require a tremendous amount of resources Perhaps you know someone who acknowledge benefactors Renovate Resident Room ...... Hospitals and long term care facilities$4,000 facilityIn-House is “showingPhysical Therapy its age,” Trainingand needs Kitchen ...... $30,000 hesitates to visit a loved one in a hos- We are grateful for your benevo- donating $500.00 and backing. We once again trust that you, our loyal and generous benefactors, will help us through Replace Resident Room Bathroom Heatersare ...... more than funtional buildings,$1,000 renovationSkilled Nursing in many Dining areas, Room particularly Renovation ...... $125,000 pital or nursing home. You are not lence, and we trust that with God’s through $2,500.00 your prayers, your support, and monetary donations as possible. Stackable Washer/Dryer in each Neighborhoodthey are...... sacred places where the$1,700 most inSkilled the Nursingessential Country mechanical Kitchen systems ...... $60,000 alone.Skilled In Nursing our American Bay Window culture, at Living ill- Roomprofound ...... decisions of life are$6,000 being whichSkilled provideNursing comfortUnit Living and Room safety ...... for help and yours we will be$30,000 able to A Tree of Life will be ness,Window infirmity, Treatment and (Blind death and are Valance)not ex- ...... made. I believe that within$500/window our final bothStaff ourLounge long Renovation term residents, ...... and for continue to provide a hallowed$40,000 place installed to acknowledge actly “hot topics” for social conversa- moments, we have the opportunity thoseBoard who Room require Renovation temporary ...... rehabil- wher many residents, whether$60,000 tem- benefactors donating tions.Golden Opportunities forto Givingwholeheartedly choose our loving itation prior to returning home. porary or long term, may live in the Silver Opportunities for Giving Multi-Purpose Room Appliances Platinum Opportunity forpeace Giving of His loving care. $2,500.00 and above. On the grounds of Mount St. Ma- Lord in life everlasting. Double Wall Oven ...... $2,500 Chapel Expansion ...... $60,000 We are calling upon you once crina, we Sisters sponsor a cherished In the love of the Lord Jesus, Coffee Shop/Gift Shop Refrigerator ...... $1,000 Beauty Shop Renovation ...... We continue to sponsor this$35,000 vital againNew Rehabto offer Addition your support ...... whether $1,200,000.00 Microwave ...... $275 ministry following in the footsteps Gift Display Cabinets ...... $500 Gift Shop/Coffee Bar ...... ministry in a society where illness$60,000 and in(Building prayer to and/orbe named inin honormonetary of Donor dona or Donor’s- Sister choice…) Seraphim Olsafsky, OSBM Multi-Purpose Room Projection Screen ...... $500 of our founder, St. Basil the Great, Coffee Maker ...... $250 Ground Floor Office Suite ...... limitation are often negatively$100,000 viewed. tions. Be assured that all monies re- Sister Ruth Plante, OSBM Multi-Purpose Room Storage Cabinets ...... $1,500 whose legacy included a unique con- Refrigerated Display Cabinet ...... $7,000 We are committed to providing qual- cieve will be used exclusively for the Provincial Cabinets/Countertops ...... $1,000 Multi-Purpose Room Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops ...... $5,000 cern for the frail and infirm. I prefer ity care, validating that life at every Mt. Macrina Manor Nursing Home Courtyard Furniture ...... $11,000 to view this site as one of the “thing age and every stage is sanctified. In or- renovation project. We have made a ! Dining Room Tables ...... $700/table Physical Therapy Appliances Refrigerator ...... $1,000 Dining Room Chairs ...... $450/chair I am pleased to support 3-Year Gift Plans Front Entry Landscaping ...... $10,000 Dishwasher ...... $450 Total Pledge o $5,000 o $4,000 o $3,000 o $2,500 o $2,000 o $1,500 o $1,000 Living Room Sofas ...... $1,500/sofa Countertop Microwave ...... $275 the Mt. Macrina Manor 36 Monthly Payments $139.00 $112.00 $84.00 $70.00 $56.00 $42.00 $28.00 Living Room Chairs ...... $750/chair Range & Range hood ...... $1,100 Renovation Project. Washer ...... $750 Or a One-Time Donation of $______. Name______Memory Care Courtyard Paving ...... $10,000 I am aware this is a declaration of intent Memory Care Courtyard Landscaping ...... $9,000 Dryer ...... $750 and is not legally binding. I wish to donate toward: Address______Memory Care Courtyard Retractable Awning ...... $2,700 Skilled Care Dining Decorative Resin Panels ...... $4,000 1st choice______City/State/Zip______Staff Lounge Decorative Resin Panels ...... $1,500 Memory Care Courtyard Pavilion ...... $12,000 2nd choice______Phone______o Please use my donation toward any project needed. Signature______Date______Please return in provided envelope. Please make checks payable to Mt. Macrina Manor Renovation Fund. Amount Enclosed______Balance Due______Page 10 Eastern Catholic Life AUGUST 2015 81st Annual Pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mount Saint Macrina, Uniontown, PA A Personal Invitation by Sister Elaine Kisinko, O.S.B.M.

am part of a very great number of people Before I became a Sister of Saint Basil, my Pil- time, and ladies looked forward to being together who grew up with the Pilgrimage to the grimage was that of every young woman of that every year, exchanging stories of their lives from Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help at day, even with concern as to what to wear because the past year, praying and singing hymns together MountI Saint Macrina in Uniontown, PA. As this we were dressed in our best then. I walked the sometimes all night. After all, this was Odpust – wonderful event changed, evolved and grew dur- grounds, prayed, participated in the services, Pilgrimage – for many of them the highlight of ing the years, I too absorbed the differences and bought a medovnik and shopped at the very their lives. moved forward with them. much smaller and different Religious Gift Store. Prior to those big days, I had spent time helping Recently I have worked at communication and As a small child, I envied the little girls in the Sisters clean the Pilgrim Homes and make information, which is very nice because I get to white dresses who walked in procession and I so beds. I also learned how to fold cabbage leaves talk with nearly everyone. Occasionally I even wanted to be one of them. It was very lovely, or- into holupki, taught by a group of blessed wom- get to use my Slovak again! Just as for the women derly, and precise, and I remained but an admir- en volunteers, all of them gone from us and now mentioned above, the Pilgrimage is a highlight in ing spectator. But for the past thirty years, I have smiling down on us from their eternal happiness. my life. Perhaps you too are a long time pilgrim, been honored and privileged to walk in a differ- and reading this has evoked some memories in ent kind of procession with children. When the Once I entered, the early years were busy with you. group assembles, it looks like unorganized chaos, various tasks. The best part then was that a novice but once they begin to move, everyone falls into got to visit with her family for a little while! Then Because no matter how the years bring chang- place. One would think they had practiced. There came years of teaching school in sometimes far es, the Pilgrimage continues to be such a beau- is no more uniformity in dress. Now we have all away parishes. So Pilgrimage was a homecoming tiful, unique event that is so significant to our the vibrant colors reflecting the energy and exu- with a sad Labor Day leaving as we Sisters parted Byzantine Catholic Church. Please consider berance of the young. Bright gold crowns shine to travel to our appointed schools. coming, whether for the first time or for a return with all of the love that is showered on the small after many times. For these few special days, we participants. Parents and others proudly walk For many years, my responsibility was again at Sisters, our Hierarchs, Clergy, and people young with their children, making it even a family event. the Pilgrim homes. My charge was here because and old, are pilgrims united together as at no Some of the little ones ride in strollers and wag- a lot of the women did not speak English, and I other time, giving glory to God and honoring His ons. Each one presents a flower to the Mother of knew the Zemplin Slovak of my grandparents. Mother as Our Lady of Perpetual Help. God and receives a blessing from the archbishop These were the big years, when bus after bus or a bishop. rolled onto the grounds bringing pilgrims from near and far. It was an exciting and inspiring

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 & SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2015 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Dear Sisters:

Please pray for me and place the following Friday, September 4 Saturday, September 5 (Continued) 7:00 a.m. MATINS at Shrine Altar intention(s) before the Icon of Our Lady of

7:00 a.m. DIVINE LITURGY in House of Prayer Chapel Perpetual Help: 7:00 p.m. - Office of Small Compline at Shrine Altar 4:00 p.m. VESPERS with DIVINE LITURGY at Shrine Altar

7:30 a.m. - 12 noon MYSTERY OF RECONCILIATION ______6:00 p.m. ENRICHMENT SESSION at Mausoleum Saturday, September 5 (Confessions at House of Prayer Patio)

______7:15 p.m. Procession from House of Prayer to Mount Macrina 7:00 a.m. - 12 noon MYSTERY OF RECONCILIATION 8:30 a.m. DIVINE LITURGY - Slavonic at Shrine Altar Cemetery (Confessions) House of Prayer Patio ______10:30 a.m. DIVINE LITURGY at Shrine Altar 7:30 p.m. PARASTAS at Mount Macrina Cemetery OPENING OF PILGRIMAGE CANDLELIGHT PROCESSION ______8:00 a.m. MATINS at Shrine Altar 11:00 a.m. MYSTERY OF ANOINTING at Trinity Center (Mount Macrina Cemetery to Shrine Altar)

AKATHIST to OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP ______9:45 a.m. Procession with icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help from 12:30 - 5:00 p.m. MYSTERY OF RECONCILIATION

House of Prayer to Shrine Altar (Confessions at the House of Prayer Patio) Following Akathist: ______

TEEN SOCIAL at Prayer Garden 1:00 p.m. CHILDREN’S PROCESSION with Special Blessing for 10:00 a.m. DIVINE LITURGY YOUNG ADULT SOCIAL at Trinity Center ______Welcome: Sister Ruth Plante, OSBM Youth & Young Adults - from House of Prayer to

Divine Liturgy to be followed by procession to Lourdes Grotto for Mother of God Shrine the Solemn Blessing of Water; procession to return to the House ______of Prayer at the conclusion of the Blessing. 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. MYSTERY OF RECONCILIATION (Confession Please note: Curfew is 1:00 a.m. for those youth for the infirm, sick and physically challenged at Manor Gazebo) ______1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. MYSTERY OF RECONCILIATION participating in Chaperoned Youth Activities. For all (Confessions) House of Prayer Patio other youth, the curfew is 12 Midnight. 2:00 p.m. CHILDREN’S PILGRIMAGE at Children’s Tent ______ENRICHMENT SESSION at Trinity Center 1:00 p.m. MOLEBEN at Shrine Altar Although casual attire is acceptable, participants are TEEN PILGRIMAGE at Prayer Garden Your Name (OPTIONAL): asked to be mindful of the religious nature of the MYSTERY OF ANOINTING at Shrine Altar 2:00 p.m. services and activities that take place and to dress ______CHILDREN’S PILGRIMAGE at Children’s Tent accordingly to traditional Christian values and 3:45 p.m. Procession from House of Prayer to Mother of God Shrine ORIENTATION for TEENS at Prayer Garden standards of modesty. Thank you! ______ENRICHMENT SESSION at Trinity Center 4:00 p.m. DIVINE LITURGY at Mother of God Shrine 3:00 p.m. TEEN PILGRIMAGE at Prayer Garden Words of Gratitude: Sister Ruth Plante, O.S.B.M.

7:15 p.m. Procession from House of Prayer to Mother of God Shrine We have no greater help,

7:30 p.m. CANDLELIGHT PROCESSION (Beginning and ending at the Mother of God Shrine) No greater hope than you,

O most pure Virgin; CLOSING OF THE PILGRIMAGE Help us, then, for Following the Candlelight Procession::

TEEN SOCIAL Prayer Garden Area We hope in you, We glory in you, YOUNG ADULT SOCIAL Trinity Center We are your servants.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Do not abandon us.

9:30 a.m. DIVINE LITURGY at Shrine Altar AUGUST 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 11

The Sisters of St. Basil the Great warmly invite you to the 81st Annual Pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help September 5 & 6, 2015

Mary, Model of Consecrated Life

Come and participate in:

 The beautiful Divine Liturgy

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 & SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2015 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Dear Sisters:  Mystery of Reconciliation Please pray for me and place the following Friday, September 4 Saturday, September 5 (Continued) 7:00 a.m. MATINS at Shrine Altar intention(s) before the Icon of Our Lady of

7:00 a.m. DIVINE LITURGY in House of Prayer Chapel Perpetual Help:  The popular Children’s Procession 7:00 p.m. - Office of Small Compline at Shrine Altar 4:00 p.m. VESPERS with DIVINE LITURGY at Shrine Altar

7:30 a.m. - 12 noon MYSTERY OF RECONCILIATION ______6:00 p.m. ENRICHMENT SESSION at Mausoleum Saturday, September 5 (Confessions at House of Prayer Patio)

______7:15 p.m. Procession from House of Prayer to Mount Macrina  7:00 a.m. - 12 noon MYSTERY OF RECONCILIATION 8:30 a.m. DIVINE LITURGY - Slavonic at Shrine Altar The inspiring Candlelight Vigil Cemetery (Confessions) House of Prayer Patio ______10:30 a.m. DIVINE LITURGY at Shrine Altar 7:30 p.m. PARASTAS at Mount Macrina Cemetery OPENING OF PILGRIMAGE CANDLELIGHT PROCESSION ______8:00 a.m. MATINS at Shrine Altar 11:00 a.m. MYSTERY OF ANOINTING at Trinity Center  (Mount Macrina Cemetery to Shrine Altar) Adult Enrichment Sessions

AKATHIST to OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP ______9:45 a.m. Procession with icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help from 12:30 - 5:00 p.m. MYSTERY OF RECONCILIATION

House of Prayer to Shrine Altar (Confessions at the House of Prayer Patio) Following Akathist: ______

TEEN SOCIAL at Prayer Garden 1:00 p.m. CHILDREN’S PROCESSION with Special Blessing for 10:00 a.m. DIVINE LITURGY YOUNG ADULT SOCIAL at Trinity Center ______Welcome: Sister Ruth Plante, OSBM Youth & Young Adults - from House of Prayer to

Divine Liturgy to be followed by procession to Lourdes Grotto for Mother of God Shrine the Solemn Blessing of Water; procession to return to the House ______of Prayer at the conclusion of the Blessing. 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. MYSTERY OF RECONCILIATION (Confession Please note: Curfew is 1:00 a.m. for those youth for the infirm, sick and physically challenged at Manor Gazebo) ______1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. MYSTERY OF RECONCILIATION participating in Chaperoned Youth Activities. For all (Confessions) House of Prayer Patio other youth, the curfew is 12 Midnight. 2:00 p.m. CHILDREN’S PILGRIMAGE at Children’s Tent ______ENRICHMENT SESSION at Trinity Center Mount Saint Macrina • Uniontown, Pennsylvania 1:00 p.m. MOLEBEN at Shrine Altar Although casual attire is acceptable, participants are TEEN PILGRIMAGE at Prayer Garden Your Name (OPTIONAL): asked to be mindful of the religious nature of the MYSTERY OF ANOINTING at Shrine Altar 2:00 p.m. services and activities that take place and to dress ______CHILDREN’S PILGRIMAGE at Children’s Tent accordingly to traditional Christian values and 3:45 p.m. Procession from House of Prayer to Mother of God Shrine ORIENTATION for TEENS at Prayer Garden standards of modesty. Thank you! ______724-438-8644 ENRICHMENT SESSION at Trinity Center 4:00 p.m. DIVINE LITURGY at Mother of God Shrine 3:00 p.m. TEEN PILGRIMAGE at Prayer Garden Words of Gratitude: Sister Ruth Plante, O.S.B.M.

7:15 p.m. Procession from House of Prayer to Mother of God Shrine We have no greater help, www.sistersofstbasil.org 7:30 p.m. CANDLELIGHT PROCESSION (Beginning and ending at the Mother of God Shrine) No greater hope than you,

O most pure Virgin; CLOSING OF THE PILGRIMAGE Help us, then, for Following the Candlelight Procession::

TEEN SOCIAL Prayer Garden Area We hope in you, We glory in you, YOUNG ADULT SOCIAL Trinity Center We are your servants.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Do not abandon us.

9:30 a.m. DIVINE LITURGY at Shrine Altar Page 12 Eastern Catholic Life AUGUST 2015 61st Annual Holy Dormition Pilgrimage St. Mary’s Villa, Sloatsburg, NY Saturday, August 8th & Sunday, August 9th Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate

Theme:Mary, Our Model of Perfect Commitment

Saturday, August 8th 12 Noon Food Available at Pavillion 1:00 PM Akathist to the Mother of God Father Edward Cimbala 2:00 PM Presentations (listed below) 5:00 PM Divine Liturgy Father Edward Cimbala, Celebrant/Homilist (grotto—English) Choir: Saint Mary’s, Hillsborough, NJ Blessing of Water (front of Villa) 8:00 PM Moleben to the Mother of God with Candlelight Procession (grotto) Bishop Kurt Burnette—celebrant/homilist Panakyhda—Saint Mary’s Villa chapel ***Teen camp Out begins Saturday at 5:00 PM Divine Liturgy through Sunday***

Sunday, August 9th 12:00 PM Youth Liturgy Father Walter Pasicznyk, main 8:00 AM Akathist to the Mother of God –Father Roman celebrant/homilist (chapel—English) Malyarchuk, Rector of Saint Basil Seminary 1:00 PM Activity for youth/children 10:30 AM Pontifical Divine Liturgy with procession 1:30 PM Blessing of the Sick (Saint Mary’s Villa Chapel & to the grotto—followed by blessing of flow- grotto steps)Blessing of Religious Articles (in front ers. Archbishop Stefan Soroka, Metropolitan of Saint Joseph’s Home) Presentation—Father Ivan Archbishop of Philadelphia; Bishops Paul Kaszczak—“Sheptytsky as Metropolitan and Pastor” Chomnycky, OSBM, Bishop of the Eparchy 2:00 PM Stations of the Cross—Father Maxim Kobasuk, of Stamford, CT; Bohdan Danylo—Bishop of OSBM the Eparchy of Saint Josaphat in Parma, OH— Homilist; Basil Losten, Bishop Emeritus of the 3:00 PM Moleben to the Mother of God—Bishop Paul Eparchy of Stamford, CT; Choir: Holy Family Chomnycky, OSBM—Celebrant and Homilist Ukrainian Catholic Church, Lindenhurst, NY Blessing of cars and buses —Ivan Tyhovych All Invited to Attend!

Presentations - Saturday (English) 2:00 PM Rt. Rev. Mitred Msgr. John Terlecky – “Mary’s Commitment Expressed Through Her Icons” 2:45 PM Sister Kathleen Hutsko, SSMI – “The Heartbeat of the SSMI’s – “The Charism of Bl. Josaphata 3:15 PM Father Ivan Kaszczak – “Sheptytsky as Metropolitan & Pastor” Presentation - Sunday (Ukrainian) 1:30 PM Father Ivan Kaszczak – “Sheptytsky as Metropolitan & Pastor” Exhibits of Women/Men Religious Communities of the Eastern Church will be on display

Confessions Throughout the Weekend AUGUST 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 13 Bishop Kurt and Area Clergy Celebrate First Feast Day of Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich Convent Station, NJ

n Friday, May 8, 2015, Bishop Kurt presided at a prayer service with ity in Convent Station, NJ. A brief reception followed the prayer service. In readings to celebrate the very first feast day of Blessed Miriam Teresa addition to Bishop Kurt, Bishop Emeritus Rodimer of Paterson, NJ, and Demjanovich.O It was held at the Holy Family Chapel of the Sisters of Char- members of the clergy of Eparchy of Passaic were in attendance..

New Ultrasound Machine for Lighthouse Center Paterson, NJ

n May, Bishop Kurt met with members of the State of New Jersey and Bishop Kurt was the sponsor for this 19th machine and he and the others Paterson Federation Knights of Columbus to present checks totaling hold plaques received from the Director for their sponsorship. Imore than $25,000 to Debbie Provencher, Director of the Light House Through the donations from the Supreme Council, local councils, and pri- Pregnancy Center, located on Ellison Street in Paterson. These checks were vate individuals the Knights of Columbus have been able to save thousands presented for the purchase of a new ultrasound machine for the new center of babies’ lives through this program. Through these donations they hope to that is currently being built. The Knights of Columbus Supreme Council place many more ultrasound machines. has already placed over 532 ultrasound machines in the US and Canada. In New Jersey, this marks the placing of the 19th ultrasound machine. Page 14 Eastern Catholic Life AUGUST 2015

Searching the Scriptures Father Jack Custer, S.T.D. “At Your Right Hand Stood the Queen:” Psalm 45 f you’ve ever been an altar server, you have procession that brings His Bride, the Church, to Because v. 9 can only apply to Mary, our Tradi- seen the rite of Proskomidija, the prepara- Him (vv. 10-17). In the middle, stands v. 9: “At tion has read the whole second half of Psalm 45 in tionI of the Eucharistic bread and wine before the your right hand stands the queen.” This cannot Marian terms as well. There is no confusion here public portion of the Liturgy begins. You would refer to the bride who is processing in; this can between Bride and Queen Mother. Mary is, after have seen the priest cut a particle of the prosfora only be the queen mother, the mother of the all, an original member of the Church (John 2: and place it on the diskos while saying: “The reigning king, who stands beside her son on his 12; John 19:26-27; Acts 1:14) and, in her Dor- Queen stood at your right hand vested in robes wedding day. This queen mother is Mary, the mition and bodily Assumption, she becomes the adorned with gold.” Those words are taken from first to experience what the whole Church hopes Psalm 45: and they are applied here and else- for: “the resurrection of the dead and the life of where in our Tradition to the Mother of God. the world to come.” Psalm 45 was composed to celebrate a wed- So, the call to “listen, O daughter” (v. 10) ding. Jews and Christians have always identi- points immediately to Mary’s experience at the fied the original groom as King Solomon, who Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38). “The king will de- is also the groom in the biblical Song of Songs. sire your beauty” (v.11) is understood by various But any mention of a wedding in the Bible should Fathers of the Church to express God’s specific remind us of Christ the Bridegroom (Matthew choice of Mary, while her beauty, the result of her 9:15; John 3:29) and the Wedding Banquet in cooperation with God’s grace (Luke 1:28) in her the Kingdom of Heaven, the subject of several of life, can be seen as an indication of Mary’s per- Jesus’ parables (Matthew 22: 1-14; 25:1-13) and sonal sinlessness or her incorruption after death. the glorious ending of God’s plan of salvation. Revelation 19:7-9; 21:9; 22:7). Psalm 45 figures prominently in the Vespers, Matins and Divine Liturgy for all the feasts of the When the psalmist says to the royal groom, Mother of God. At the feast of her Entrance into “Your throne, O God, is forever” (v. 6) he can the Temple (November 21), the spotlight falls on only be speaking to Jesus Christ, as the Epistle to v. 14-15: “She is led to the King with her maiden the Hebrews (1:8-9) makes clear. But who is the companions . . . they shall enter the King’s pal- royal bride? Thirty years before Saint John wrote ace.” As we celebrate the Dormition of Mary this the book of Revelation and described the heav- month, we can find in v. 9, “At your right hand enly wedding banquet, Saint Paul clearly identi- Mother of God and her Dormition and bodily stands the queen,” the prophecy of her bodily fied Christ’s bride to be the Church: (Ephesians Assumption into heaven mark the moment Assumption into heaven and reassurance of the 5:25-32). Psalm 45 begins by praising Christ when she took her place at her Son’s right hand. hope God holds out for us all. the Bridegroom (vv. 1-8) and then describes the

WILL YOU BE P.O.P.E? WILL YOU BE P.O.P.E? (Part Of the Pilgrimage Experience) (Part Of the Pilgrimage Experience ) WHERE IS IT? WHEN IS IT? WHO’S INVITED? WHERE ISWILL IT? YOU BE P.O.P.E?Kraków,WHEN Poland IS IT? JulyWHO’S 24 – Aug INVITED? 4, 2016. Ages 19-35 Kraków,(Pa Polandrt Of the Pilgrimage EJulyxperience 24 – Aug) 4, 2016. Ages 19-35 a 12-Day Pilgrimage with Airfare from New York - $ 3,769 a a WHERE IS IT? 12-DayWHEN Pilgrimage IS IT? with Airfare from WHO’SNewMinimum York INVITED?15 pilgrims - $ 3,769 required for New York package with airfare. aMinimum 15 pilgrims required for New York 12 pa-ckageDay Pilgrimagewith airfare. Land-Only Package: - $ 2,419 Kraków, Poland July 24 – Aug 4, 2016. Ages 19-35 12-Day Pilgrimage Land-Only Package(does not include: - $ 2,419round-trip airfare from your departure city to Krakow)

(does not include round-trip airfare from your departure city to Krakow) a 12-Day Pilgrimage with Airfare from New York Byzantine - $ 3,769 Catholic Intereparchial Youth Commission Custom Itinerary aMinimum 15 pilgrimsByzantine required Catholic for New Intereparchial York package withYouth airfare Commission. Custom Itinerary July 24th, 2016 Depart From New York 12-Day Pilgrimage Land-Only Package: - $ 2,419 July 24th, 2016 Depart From New York July 25th Arrive in Europe, transfer to accommodations, and prepare for WYD (does not include round-trip airfare from your departure city to Krakow) th July 25th Arrive in Europe, transfer to accommodations,July 26 Krakow and prepare City Tour, for WYD WYD Opening Ceremonies in the evening JulyByzantine 26th CatholicKrakow City Intereparchial Tour, WYD Opening YouthJuly 27 Ceremonies thCommission Catechesis in the Custom evening in the Itinerary morning, WYD cultural events in the afternoon July 27th Catechesis in the morning, WYDJuly 28 culturalth eventsCatechesis in the afternoon in the morning, Welcoming Ceremonies with our Holy Father in the evening July 24th, 2016 DepartJuly From 28th New YorkCatechesis in the morning, WelcomingJuly 29th CeremoniesCatechesis with in our the Holy morning, Father WYD in the cultural evening events and Stations of the Cross in the afternoon July 25th ArriveJuly in Europe, 29th transferCatechesis to accommodations, in the morning, and WYDJuly prepare 30 culturalth for eventsWYDPilgrimage and Stations in the of morning, the Cross Vigil in thewith afternoon our Holy Father throughout the night July 26th KrakowJuly City 30 thTour, WYDPilgrimage Opening Ceremonies in the morning, in the VigilJuly evening with31st our Holy MorningFather throughout Mass with ourthe Holynight Father, pilgrimage back to accommodations July 27th CatechesisJuly 31 inst the morning,Morning WYD Mass cultural with events our Holy in AugtheFather, afternoon 1st pilgrimage Day back Trip toto accommodationsZakopane: Visit the High Tatras where Saint Pope John Paul II hiked and skied in the mountains and made July 28th CatechesisAug 1 stin the morning,Day TripWelcoming to Zakopane: Ceremonies Visit the with High our Tatras Holy where Fatherretreats. Saint in the Take Pope evening the John cable Paul car II hiked to the and top skied of the in mountain the mountains where and you made can see four countries from one spot. July 29th Catechesis in the morning,retreats. WYD Take cultural the eventscable carandAug to Stations the 2nd top of of the the DayCross mountain Trip in tothe Czestochowa: where afternoon you can Visit see the fou Shriner countries of the from Miraculous one spot. Icon of Our Lady of Czestochowa rd July 30th PilgrimageAug 2 innd the morning,Day VigilTrip towith Czestochowa: our Holy Father VisitAug throughout the 3 Shrine ofthe theDay night Miraculous Trip to Auschwitz/Birkenau Icon of Our Lady & of Wadowice: Czestochowa Experience the site of the Jewish Holocaust in WWII, and then visit July 31st MorningAug Mass 3rd with our DayHoly Trip Father, to Auschwitz/Birkenau pilgrimage back to & accommodations Wadowice:Wadowice, Experience birthplace the site of ofthe Saint Jewish Pope Holocaust John Paul in WWII,II. and then visit Aug 1st Day Trip to Zakopane: Wadowice,Visit the High birthplace Tatras where of Saint SaintAug Pope Pope4th John John Paul PaulDepart II. II hiked Europe and for skied home in the mountains and made retreats.Aug Take 4th the cableDepart car to Europe the top for of home the mountain where you can see four countries from one spot. th Aug 2nd Day Trip to Czestochowa: Visit the Shrine of the Miraculous Icon of Our Lady of Czestochowa First Payment of $600 due by July 10 . Aug 3rd Day Trip to Auschwitz/Birkenau & Wadowice: ExperienceFirst Payment the site of of the $600 Jewish due Holocaust by JulyFor in 10 WWII, informationth. and then and visit reservations please contact: Wadowice, birthplace of Saint Pope John PaulFor II.information and reservationsVery Reverend please contact:Michael J. Salnicky 570-650-3252 [email protected] Aug 4th Depart Europe for home Very Reverend Michael J. Salnicky 570-650-3252 [email protected]

First Payment of $600 due by July 10th. For information and reservations please contact: Very Reverend Michael J. Salnicky 570-650-3252 [email protected] AUGUST 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 15

Catechetical Reflections Father Robert F. Slesinski, Ph.D. OMG: A Shout in the Street? Installment 5 of 6 Inadvertently omitted

he downcast words of William Word- even be enlisted as a means for fostering philo- his or her being. But to philosophize truly one sworth seem to tarry in my mind: sophic wonder insofar as it frees up society from must be willing to step out of the workaday world, T mundane concerns and daily drudgery in favor of as it were. Even in contemplating the “ordinary” It is not now as it hath been of yore;— more leisure that in turn can only facilitate great- in this world a certain detachment is required— Turn wheresoe’er I may, er detachment from worldly concern that can oddly enough to eventually effect a genuine en- By night or day, serve to impede philosophic engagement with gagement with the world, but at the level of being The things which I have seen I now can see no more. the world of being. and ultimate importance. One may well ask whether he is just melanchol- That sort of wonder is found in the verbalized As a venture into the realm of ideas, the philo- ic or genuinely nostalgic for a past that has really angst of Hamlet as articulated in the opening line sophical act entails an act of transcendence, the passed with the coming of the Industrial Revolu- of his tortuous soliloquy in Shakespeare’s play daring to get outside of ourselves and our daily tion. Has wonder before the beauties of nature of the same name (Act III, Scene 1) in which he concern in order to give ourselves over to a high- now been truly eclipsed by a new order of things? contemplates death and suicide: “To be, or not to er task, namely, to put the domain of functional This question is not a vain one as it was posed be, that is the question—“. The dilemma of being knowledge behind us in order to enter into a during a time of unquestionable change that was is, indeed, uppermost in his mind. As he contin- world of genuine freedom beyond being at the also accompanied by dramatic social movements. ues, disposal of the external factors of everyday life On this note, we can directly ask whether that impede growth in interiority. In this fashion, Whether ‘tis Nobler in the mind to suffer the philosophical act concerns not the exploita- Wordsworth, the romantic poet that he was, may The Stings and arrows of outrageous Fortune, have harbored any pro-Luddite sympathies. The tion of external phenomena, but rather a partici- Or to take Arms against a Sea of troubles, pation in the world order itself, meaning there- Luddite Movement, after all, was at its heyday And by opposing, end them? To die, to sleep— over the years 1811–1817 with the pronounced fore that our knowledge of the world in being is No more; and by a sleep, to say we end not just a “knowledge to be thought,” but one to opposition of English textile artisans to the The Heart-ache, and the thousand Natural Shocks, newly developed labor-replacing machinery like be lived. That, in fine, is what it means to enjoy That Flesh is heir to? ‘Tis a consummation wisdom, the imp1ulse toward which begins in stocking and spinning frames and power looms, Devoutly to be wished. To die, to sleep, which could now replace skilled artisans with wonder before the face of being and in our love To sleep, perchance to Dream; Aye for it, the very meaning of philosophy. low-skilled, low-wage laborers. That physical For in that sleep of death, what dreams may come… acts of vandalism—industrial sabotage in other For the religious philosopher (an atheistic phi- words—were perpetrated by the Luddites comes In Hamlet’s instance, we find ourselves before a losophy, I would maintain, is a contradiction in as no surprise. tragic existence. But tragedy is not the sole pur- terms), the love of wisdom cannot but lead to a view of philosophic reflection whose object truly love of Wisdom the very Word (the Logos, i.e., Curiously in our own time, we sometimes en- is at one with being itself—in its heights, depths, counter the term “Neo-Luddism” as some of our Jesus Christ) of which to us enables us to grasp and expanse—in all that is true, good, and beauti- that “I am” and makes us exclaim along with own contemporaries also bemoan advances in ful. technology, especially in computer science, as the Russian symbolist poet Viacheslav Ivanov being injurious to a vibrant workforce. Be that For the man/woman of action the thought of (1866–1949) in an ultimate word of recognition: as it may, economic interests per se do not consti- being an “armchair philosopher” does not con- Ty Esi (“Thou Art”), i.e., OMG! Thou Art truly tute a driving force inimical to philosophic won- jure up much excitement. But in its own way the source and sustenance of my—our—exis- der, which is of a different order. To the contrary, philosophy truly is an adventure in ideas that ul- tence. technological progress, it could be argued, can timately engages its practitioner to the depths of

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1. “Holy Ghost Choir in Concert” – Selections of Slavonic and Ameri- 8. “Marian and Eucharistic Songs of Praise” – Collection of Byzantine can Folk Tunes. BVM and Communion Hymns in Slavonic and English 2. “Divine Liturgy in Old Slavonic” 9. DVD Video “Gubi – Jaslickari” – Male Chorus presentation of The Bethlehem Carolers in Slavonic – Carpatho Rusyn. ($16.95 each DVD). 3. “Special Collection of Choral Music” – Selection of Ruthenian, Slo- vak, Croatian, Russian, Ukrainian, and Hungarian Folk Songs 10. DVD Video “The Byzantine Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chryso- tom in Church Slavonic” church Slavonic Commemorative Production 4. “Traditional Byzantine Carols” – Collection of Christmas Music in with Four Concelebrants (English Liturgical subtitles included), 90 min- Slavonic, Hungarian and English. utes ($21.95 each DVD) 5. “Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom in English” Please add $3.00 Shipping and handling for each order. Items 6. “Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom in Church Slavonic” – Original 1 through 8 are offered digitally re-mastered $12.95 CD for- Soundtrack from the 50th Anniversary Commemorative Video mat. Make checks payable to: Holy Ghost Choir, 2310 South 24th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145-3207. 7. “Passion and Resurrection of Christ” – Traditional Byzantine Lent- en and eastern hymns in Slavonic and English Page 16 Eastern Catholic Life AUGUST 2015

Understanding Icons Father Joseph Bertha, Ph.D. Icon of Christ: Image Made Without Human Hands

he Holy Mandylion, some- this icon of Our Lord are the eyes a young plant, and like a root out the square piece of bread (ahnets times mistranslated into depicted in a very unique manner; of the ground. He had no form or or “Lamb”) cut out of the loaf by EnglishT as the holy napkin, also they are both usually looking off comeliness that we would look at the priest while praying the words known as Veronica’s Veil, is con- into the distance surveying the him and no beauty that we should of Isaiah and making the sign of sidered by many to be the first horizon for the return of the Prod- desire him. He was despised and the cross over the piece of bread. icon. The image shows Christ as igal Son(s) in repentance return- rejected by men a man of sorrows Liturgical celebration the expiator of sins, refulgently ing to the Father. and acquainted with grief and as radiant the Mercy of God on His one from whom men hide their Two hymns from Vespers for This icon captures and freezes countenance. On the Byzantine faces he was despised, and we es- August 16th describe the event: liturgical calendar the conveyance an extremely important moment teemed him not. Surely he has of the icon to Constantinople is in the life of Our Lord, it is the borne our grief and carried our “With what earthly eyes shall we commemorated on August 16th, Lamb of God on his journey to be sorrows, yet we esteemed him behold Your icon, glistening with in order to recall the icon’s trans- sacrificed for the love of sinners stricken, struck down by God and divine light, upon which the an- ference from Syria to the Byzan- gelic hosts cannot easily gaze? To- tine Capital. day it is departing from the land of unbelievers, and at the divine Art History bidding , it is going to the capital city of the God-fearing people. This icon shows only the head O Christ, kings are seen bowing of Our Lord traced or superim- down before Your icon, filled with posed upon a suspended cloth, faith and awe at its arrival. “ sometimes shown as an ornamen- tal Jewish tallit (prayer shawl), al- “O Word, with what earthly ternately as a piece of linen. Our hands shall we touch Your icon, Lord’s head is surrounded by a O Savior, the image of our sinless cruciform halo inscribed with the God and Lord beyond all reach, three Greek letters (o wv) literally for our sins have made us de- “the Being” or “I am Whom Am.” filed and impure. The cherubim His gaze is usually off to one side, cover their eyes and tremble, the neither of the eyes encounter the seraphim dare not gaze upon Your viewer. The icon depicts the im- glory. Creation serves You in fear. print of Our Lord’s face as He is Do not condemn us even though on the way to Golgotha and pre- we are unworthy, O Christ, for we serves this moment of His sacri- kiss Your awesome image in faith.” fice as the Lamb of God. Even though Byzantines are The Portrayal of the coun- unique in their liturgical calendar tenance and Father Pavel Flo- by memorializing the journey of “Image Not Made by Human Hands” by Yvonne Anne Hajdu-Cronin. rensky. an icon, we cannot overlook the In his wonderful book called significance and meaning of this afflicted. But he was wounded for particular icon or relic, thought by Iconostasis, the martyr to atheis- on the Cross. Every detail in the tic communism, Father Florensky, our transgressions; he was bruised many to be the cloth sent by Our icon highlights and emphasizes distinguishes between the face and for our iniquities; upon him was Lord to King Abgar of Syria which the mercy of God. countenance when discussing the the chastisement that made us brought about his healing and icon. He writes that the face is what Scriptural antecedent whole; and with his stripes we are conversion to Christianity. we show to the world, and unfor- healed. We all, like sheep, have Spiritual meaning tunately many times it is disguised Our Lord is called “Lamb of gone astray. We have turned ev- or disfigured. Conversely, the icon God” by Saint John the Baptist in eryone to his own way, and they The Image Not Made by Hu- radiantly shines forth with a coun- the gospel of John: he cries out, Lord has laid on him the iniquity man Hands is an appropriate im- tenance, the likeness of God which “Behold the Lamb of God who of us all. He was oppressed, and age to be placed in the area where can be perceived in a human face. takes away the sins of the world!” he was afflicted, yet he opened not the Sacrament of Reconciliation is The countenance of God’s Mercy Saint John recognizes the expia- his mouth; like a lamb that is led celebrated, so that penitents might appears refulgent in the icon not tory nature of the Messiah as he to the slaughter, and like a sheep made by human hands. be moved to repent of their sinful- quotes from Isaiah referring to that before its shearer is silent, so ness. This is especially referred to Since there is only the Head of Our Lord as the Lamb of God. he opened not his mouth.” in the icon by the aversion of Our Our Savior the icon depict four He preached as Isaiah from an- Lords eyes off into the distance, The Old Testament prophets out of the five senses. Interesting- cient times about the journey of and not directly gazing at the sin- all preached on the need for re- ly, this icon thought to be painted the lamb to His death, which the ner. He bestows God the Father’s pentance, fulfilled in Christ our without human agency does not Church celebrates on Great and great Mercy to the repentant sin- Savior. Even during the Rite of depict the hands of Our Lord! The Holy Friday. In the Vespers for ner! Preparation for the Divine Litur- gaze of Our Lord is the most com- Great Friday, Isaiah 53:2-7 is read: gy, Jesus as Lamb is referenced by pelling sense depicted. Only in “For he grew up before him like AUGUST 2015 Eastern Catholic Life Page 17

Seasonal Reflections Monsignor John. T. Sekellick, JCL Grace farewell to that community. istence to a supernatural level. Bap- Saint John the Evangelist tells us tism is the only sacramental means that “…God is love. In this has the Among the mysteries of our Cath- for conferring the life of grace, re- love of God been shown in our case, olic Faith, none is perhaps more calling our Lord’s words to Nicode- that God has sent His only-begotten practically important for our per- mus, “Unless a man be born again of Son into the world that we may live sonal and spiritual lives than the water and the Spirit, he cannot enter through Him. In this is love, not doctrine of grace which is at the the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5) that we have loved God, but that He very core of Christianity because it has first loved us, and sent His Son bespeaks of the existence of a su- Grace is then merited through a propitiation for our sins.” (I John pernatural order. The Catechism of prayer, reception of the Sacraments Icon of Pentecost 4:8-10) The price paid to make our the Catholic Church tells us grace is and good works. The gift of grace is supernatural life possible was the s we continue through the ep- “a participation in the life of God” the fruit of the blood of Christ shed life of His own Son Who became Aarchial “Year of the Epistle,” (No. 1997). Grace gives heaven for us on Calvary and re-presented one of us, taking on our human na- we have reached the conclusions of its only meaning as a prolongation in the unbloody Eucharistic sacri- ture, in all things except sin, destroy- Saint Paul’s epistle to the Romans, of life in God’s friendship here on fice. To make our supernatural life ing death – the penalty of sin - by followed by his first epistle to the earth. To be in God’s friendship re- possible, the pristine state of our His passion and death. Corinthians and turn now in August quires that our soul not be darkened soul once deadened by the sin of our to his second epistle to the Corin- by the stain of serious sin. first parents, Adam and Eve, was re- In the words of the Catechism of thians. Many people are familiar deemed not with perishable things the Catholic Church: “The grace of Grace is a gift freely bestowed by with a well-known verse taken from such as gold and precious stones but Christ is the gratuitous gift that God God as we cooperate with Him in Chapter 13, verse 13: “The grace of with the precious blood of Christ. makes to us of His own life, infused the salvation of our immortal soul. our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love We can then identify grace with by the Holy Spirit into our soul to It is infused into our soul at the mo- of God and Father, and the commu- divine love, truly a dynamic power heal it of sin and to sanctify it.” (No. ment of Baptism which is the door nion of the Holy Spirit be with all of that God has grow and mature un- 1999). opening for us supernatural life, that you.” This is Saint Paul speaking his der His all-providing hand. is to say, grace raises our natural ex-

School of Prayer Father G. Scott Boghossian Prayer is Talking to God rayer is simply talking to God. confidence and with love, just like Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ What a gift it is to be able to talk There are many ways to pray, you speak to your closest confidant. has accomplished for us by His with God. Let’s not forget it! Talk to butP the essential thing is to commu- For some people it may seem wea- death and resurrection, we are now Him as often as you can. He won’t nicate with God. Some people say risome and perhaps boring to read God’s children. Through faith, re- get tired of your conversation. Tell their prayers from the prayer book, prayers from a book, or recite them pentance, and baptism, we have be- Him whatever occurs to you as you or the Divine Office, or the Psalms, from memory, but praying to God come members of God’s family, His would tell your best friend. or use prayer beads, but don’t often by simply talking to Him is usually intimate friends. converse with God. All of these easy and pleasant. You may object, “what’s the point forms of prayer are good and serve Postures often used in prayer, such in telling God all about myself and an important purpose. Neverthe- Remember that God is always as kneeling or standing, are good be- my affairs, since He, being Om- less, we must learn to talk to God. near. “In Him we live and move and cause they show God the reverence niscient, already knows all about Saint Gregory of Nyssa says that have our being” (Acts 17:28). He He deserves and help us to concen- me!?” Yes, you are correct, God al- prayer is a conversation with God. is pleased to hear us talking to Him. trate, but these postures are not al- ready knows everything about you, Saint John of the Ladder says that “But I don’t know what to say to ways absolutely necessary. It is not but Saint Alphonsus tells us that to pray is to converse with God. Do Him,” you say. Tell Him about the wrong to talk to God while we are God will deal with us as though He you talk to God? Yes, you “say your events of your day, of your plans for waiting on line, walking, driving, or were ignorant of us and our affairs, if prayers,” but do you talk to God? the future, your trials and struggles, lying in our bed. If we are in a public we don’t speak to Him and request your fears, and whatever else is on place, God knows our thoughts, and His help. Saint Alphonsus de Liguori, Doc- your mind. Psalm 62:8 says “Trust we can speak to Him silently with- tor of the Church and Patron Saint in Him at all times, O people; pour out disturbing anyone. No matter Talk to God when you experience of priest-confessors and moral theo- out your heart before Him; God is where we are, God is present and troubles and trials, heartaches and logians, wrote a short book called a refuge for us.” Pour out your heart hears us talking to Him in prayer. pain. He will hear your prayer. He “How To Converse With God.” before the Lord. will remove the trial from you or In this famous work of Christian It is essential to have some time give you the strength and courage spirituality he tells us how impor- Does it show a lack of respect and set aside every day to pray. We might to endure it. Tell Him of the fears tant this type of prayer is and urges reverence to speak to the Almighty get busy and miss our allotted time and sadness that oppress you and us to engage in it. Speak to God as in such a familiar way? It is true that to pray and read the Scriptures. He will give you peace. “…Let your though you were alone with Him, God is Almighty, and Holy, and that Even so, we can talk to God anytime. requests be made known to God. speak familiarly, in your own words. He inspires awe and fear in the hearts When we get up in the morning, And the peace of God, which passes In this type of prayer, there is no of His creatures. Psalm 97 says “Fire when we lie in bed at night, when all understanding, will keep your need for archaic English, words goes before Him, and burns up his we are at work or running errands hearts and your minds in Christ Je- like “Ye, Thee, Thine and Thy,” or adversaries round about” and “the during the day, it is always time to sus” (Phil. 4:6,7). Continue to “say perfect grammar. Talk to God with mountains melt like wax before the converse with the God who loves us. your prayers” but make sure you LORD.” But because of what Our never forget to talk to God. Page 18 Eastern Catholic Life AUGUST 2015

Faith and Community Issues By Father Carmen Scuderi, OFM, Ed.D., P.C.C. The Roles of Drugs and Alcohol in Suicide Effects of Drugs and Alcohol in the People who are both depressed and dependent can develop a situation that aggravates rather Suicide attempt on alcohol seem particularly prone to suicidal than alleviates the problems (Comer citing impulses” (Comer, 2011, p. 238). Maris, 2001). Comer (2011) uses the studies of Crosby et al., (2009); Lejoyeux et al., (2008); and Mc Comer (2011) citing Weinberg and Malts- The Role of Schizophrenia in Suicidal Cloud et al., (2004) as examples of studies that berger (2007), makes the case that people ideation and activity reveal the number of people who imbibe alco- with borderline personality disorder, will also hol immediately prior to committing an act of attempt to harm themselves or threaten to do The sufferer of schizophrenia may experi- suicide number as high as 70 percent. Autop- so as part of their personality disorder profile. ence audio hallucinations (hearing voices) or sies as part of the forensic examination reveals People with a history of major depressive disor- delusional thinking (having thoughts or beliefs twenty-five percent of these individuals are le- der will find themselves in the throes of suicidal that are bizarre or clearly wrong). According to gally intoxicated (Comer, 2011 citing Flavin ideation. Comer cites Rihmer et al., (1995) in Comer (2011), the common belief leads the et al., 1990). The thinking is that the ability of presenting a program of teaching doctors rec- public to opinion that when sufferers of schizo- alcohol to lower the inhibitory factors in hu- ognition of early stage depression and aggres- phrenia commit an act of suicide they are guided man personality traits comes into play. The fear sively treating the symptoms. Conversely, it is to do so by voices, “commanding hem to do so factor around committing suicide is sufficiently precisely when a depressed individual begins or to a delusion that suicide is a grand and noble anesthetized, allowing more aggressive qualities to come out of depression that the chances of gesture” (Comer, 2011, p. 238). According to and emotions to surface while at the same time, the individual committing suicide radically in- the research conducted by Heisel, (2008); and preventing the problem-solving, judging cen- crease. Comer cites Sadock and Sadock (2007) Pompili and Lester (2007) and cited by Comer ters of the brain to function appropriately with that upon coming out of a depressed state the (2011) people suffering from schizophrenia are the result being an attempt and in many cases burst of energy that comes about gives impetus more prone to reflect demoralization or fear the successful carrying out of a suicide. to act upon the suicidal ideations thought out that their mental situation will only get worse during the depressive phase. with the passage of time. According to Comer (2011), the role and effect that Drugs play is very similar to that of Comer cites Werth (2004) in making a case Relapsing, unemployed sufferers of younger Alcohol in the carrying out of suicide, the drug for a connection among serious physical illness, ages tend to develop the belief that the schizo- scene being more attractive to the younger set, severe depression, and suicide attempts. Comer phrenia will only continue to disrupt their lives teens and young adults (Comer 2011, citing states that, “a study of 44 patients with terminal more and more with the passage of time and Darke et al., 2009, 2005; and Lester, 2000). illnesses revealed that fewer than one-quarter without an end to the disruptive cycling. The Comer posits the heroin overdose of Kurt Co- of them had thoughts of suicide or wished for substandard living conditions many sufferers bain a musician as a possible example of drug- an early death and that those who did were are condemned to live out becomes a hopeless induced suicide back in 1994 (Comer citing all suffering from major depressive disorder situation the situations notwithstanding, Com- Colburn, 1996). (p. 238, Comer 2011, citing Brown et al., 1986). er cites both Pompili and Lester (2007) that among sufferers of schizophrenia, suicide is a Mental Disorders and their role in Substance abuse connections to sui- leading cause of death. Suicide cidal ideation and activity In the next installment, we will consider the While anxiety and a troubled mind may be Comer cites Buri et al. (2009); Clay (2009); role model as a contagion of suicide particu- present in the person about to commit suicide, and Roy (2009) in connecting people taking lar to the teenage subculture: how powerful an it does not necessarily follow that they concom- alcohol immediately prior to a suicide attempt influence do rock stars and actors have on the itantly suffer a diagnosable psychological disor- with long histories of substance abuse. There minds and feelings of the young where suicide is der as defined by the latest edition of the DSM. is no clear link, according to Comer between concerned, as well as the role of music as a cause Comer (2011) on the other hand, cites Berman substance abuse histories and suicide, but there for inspiring suicidal ideation and activity. (2009) and Tatarelli et al. (2007) in making may be some connection between the lifestyles, the observation that the majority of all people tragic as they present themselves who suffer who commit suicide do display symptoms that from substance abuse and experiencing a sense strongly correspond to diagnosable psychologi- of being trapped by the offending substance cal disorders. Comer makes the point that ac- with no exit leads to suicidal ideation. cording to research as many as 50% of suicide Another consideration Comer (2011) raises victims were victims of severe depression with is the factor of psychological pain, or a height- about 20% in the throes of chronic alcoholism ened sense of desperation that may bring about with 10% diagnosed schizophrenia. Accord- simultaneous substance abuse and suicide ing to Comer (2011) who cites Sadock and (Comer citing Sher et al. 2005). The downward Sadock (2007), “as many as 15 per cent of peo- spiral of substance abuse and psychological pain ple with these disorders try to kill themselves

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The Byzantine Liturgy By Archpriest David Petras, SEOD Who is God? Part 3 hat God is has meaning for our faith in res- we live and reason to and praise its Creator. This in its completeness has a spiritual and bodily exis- urrection. God is not some distant clock- is a kind of an ascension. From the dust of the tence necessary to its nature. Our mortal lives are maker,T but the intimate Giver of Life, for “ it is earth, to a living creature, to a sentient, worship- not a detour from eternity but a necessary step in the spirit that gives life. (John 6:63)” This title is ping creature of faith and hope, to eventually a di- the process. one of the most frequently used in the Liturgy of vine creature. St. Paul understood this, when he the Church. Our experience of God is rooted in said that what is corruptible must become incor- our experience that we exist. We are here because ruptible, what is natural must become spiritual. God has brought us into existence and sustains us (1 Corinthians 15:44). He concludes: “ Just as in being. We profess that twice in the Divine Lit- we have borne the image of the earthly one, we urgy, in the Prayer of the Trisagion, “Holy God ... shall also bear the image of the heavenly one. (1 you brought all things from nonexistence into be- Corinthians 15:49)” We should not see his con- ing,” and in the Anaphora itself, “You brought us trast natural-spiritual according to a certain pres- out of nonexistence into being.” Because of this, ent-day category. He does not mean body-soul. we can have hope in the Resurrection, “[Moses] St. Paul was Jewish, he did not think in dualistic called ‘ Lord ’ the God of Abraham, the God of terms. “Natural” or “psychicon” meant the whole Isaac, and the God of Jacob, and he is not God of human being, but in this mortal life. “Spiritual” the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive. likewise meant the whole human being, but not (Luke 20:37-38).” a disembodied soul, but in a risen, glorious body. Ancient Jewish categories were not Greek, but The most ardent monotheists, the ancient Jews also not so simple. There was a concept of “life knew this: “You are mighty, humiliating the after death” and some continuous existence be- proud; strong, judging the ruthless; you live for- tween physical death and “spiritual” resurrection, evermore, and raise the dead; you make the wind but the human being could not be complete until to return and the dew to fall; you nourish the liv- the body was restored. ing, and bring the dead to life; you bring forth sal- vation for us in the blinking of an eye. Blessed are There will be a “new creation,” but we must you, O Lord, who bring the dead to life.” pass through the door of the mortal body. The No one comes back from the dead. It is clear process is the same for us as for Jesus: concep- that this “journey” is made but once and in one God is unity. This is why it is so crucial to con- tion, birth, death, resurrection, ascension. But if direction. No one can tell us of ‘life after death,” fess the oneness of God. God is not “dispersed” we do not pass through a mortal life, then there because we can understand it only by dying our- in space and time, but is the one ground from is not a human creature that is deified. On Mt. selves. Likewise we cannot understand the inner which all being exists, explaining our hope for Sinai, when Moses asked to see God, he was told, nature of God, for to do this, we would have to be “being in God.” Jesus taught: “I pray not only for “ no one can see me and live, (Exodus 33:20)” God by nature. St. Gregory the Theologian once them (the disciples), but also for those who will and St. John wrote, “No one has ever seen God. said that it is insanity to inquire into the inner believe in me through their word, so that they (1 John 4:12)” We can “see” God only when we life of the Trinity. Likewise, a ‘life after death,” may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in have passed through death. Our mortal lives are is incomprehensible to one who is alive. In the you, that they also may be in us, that the world “book-ended” by nothingness before conception parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man, Father may believe that you sent me. And I have given and eternal life after death. They are a thin line Abraham refuses to send Lazarus back ro warn them the glory you gave me, so that they may be between two infinities. The Liturgy tells us, “Our the rich man’s brothers about Gehenna. This was one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that life vanishes like smoke; like ash and dust, it exists not out of uncharity, but simply because it would they may be brought to perfection as one, that the for an instant, then quickly disappears” (Apos- be futile: “ If they will not listen to Moses and the world may know that you sent me, and that you ticheron, Tone 3, Saturday Matins) This does not prophets, neither will they be persuaded if some- loved them even as you loved me. (John 17:20- mean that our earthly lives are insignificant. In one should rise from the dead. (Luke 16:31)” 23)” This helps also to explain the nature of our fact, if we believe in the Resurrection, then each There was one resurrection that did change the consciousness and the possibility of deification, moment of our lives are a foreshadowing of eter- world profoundly: the resurrection of Christ. Je- we find our center in the one God, who is closer nity. Only when we do not believe, then life be- sus said, “ An evil and unfaithful generation seeks to us than we are to ourselves. comes insignificant and meaningless. Ultimately, a sign, but no sign will be given it except the sign Why, one might ask, if we are truly in the im- this is why the Church condemned the idea of a of Jonah the prophet. Just as Jonah was in the age and likeness of God, did he not create us im- pre-existence of souls as a heresy (Second Coun- belly of the whale three days and three nights, so mediately immortal. The human condition is cil of Constantinople, 553). If that were so, then will the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth that we are, indeed, intelligent, free, conscious the human person would be essentially a soul, three days and three nights. (Matthew 12:39- creatures. We can measure the universe in which which descends for a while into a body and then 40)” returns to spiritual existence. The human person Jersey City Choir Offers CDs and Cassettes St. Mary Church Byzantine Catholic Church announces the sale of their four com- pact disc (CD) recordings and their four stereo cassette recordings.

Compact discs are $12.00 each, Select from or any four for $43.95. Stereo cas- Send orders to: sette recordings are $7.95 each or (1) Great Fast and Resurrection Saint Mary Choir any four for $29.95. All orders are (2) Divine Liturgy in Old Slavonic postage and handling free. (3) Divine Liturgy in English 231 Pacific Avenue, (4) Christmas Caroling Jersey City, NJ 07304 Page 20 Eastern Catholic Life AUGUST 2015

Spiritual Reflections Deacon Lewis Rabayda The Progress of Absolute Love

s humans, we look forward not. Love is not spiteful, hateful, ma- lowing God provides. This happiness perspective of God’s love, a love that to a good future—we want licious, nor destructive. Love does does not come from rejecting God’s is absolute, unchanging, that helps progressA in our lives. We don’t al- not lead others into sin, nor does it will and from rejecting His notion of us to see the difference between the ways want things to stay the same, lead others away from God. These love. It is this perspective that helps progress of the spiritual life and the and sometimes we want to live better actions are brought about by the re- us to see the world through the eyes progress of the world. Throughout and more rewarding lives. But what jection of God’s love. The fruits of of our creator. our liturgical worship, we pray over do we mean when we say progress? love are a movement towards God, and over again the phrase, “now and Could it be possible that a better fu- they are a building up of person and Progress for the true Christian, ever and forever,” and other Eng- ture for me is different than a better society by conscious acts of good- then, is to move towards a union lish translations of the same phrase future for someone else? Could it be ness. with God. A society would exhibit say, “unto ages of ages.” In the Book that my understanding of the world progress if it were directed towards of Revelation, Jesus says, “I am the is different from how someone else The great saints through time have salvation, and likewise be diverted Alpha and the Omega, the first and understands it? The short of it is: yes. shown us what true love looks like in from damnation. Progress is when the last, the beginning and the end” We are experiencing a clash of world a human being, for they have shown we overcome the passions of our (22:13). From these words of Jesus, views today. We find ourselves divid- us the unmistakable joy that comes bodies and the vices of this world, it does not seem that His perspec- ed because we are not speaking from from following the will of God. A it is when we overcome tempta- tive is subject to change. The source the same perspective. modern example is Blessed Mother tion. Progress itself does not change, of true love, the source of our exis- Teresa of Calcultta who showed us even though it may seem that our tence, is unchanging in His desire The perspective of the true Chris- on the television screens in our living notion of progress is different from for us to progress towards our union tian is a constant perspective. But, rooms the joy and happiness that fol- someone else’s. It is this constant with Him, until we are partakers of if we are well formed in our under- the Kingdom of Heaven. standing of Scripture and Church teaching, then our perspective will be the perspective of God through the Holy Spirit. We will see the world through the eyes of the One who cre- ated it, we can see the good in it, and we can see those aspects of it which oppose the good. This perspective will help us to understand what is good and helpful for us and likewise what will harm us. God wants us to be happy, but happiness according to God is to follow His command- ments. God gave us these command- ment because He knows that if we follow them, we will indeed be hap- py. God knows the results of sin and of rejecting His love. Lucifer was the first to fall because of the vice of Pride, he thought that he knew bet- ter than God and that he did not have to follow what God wanted. Lucifer is the prime example of what Love is

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