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

VOL. LVI, NO. 1 JANUARY 2020 +Father Conan H. Timoney Enters Eternal Rest Baltimore, MD Pursuing a vocation to the priesthood, Boston, Massachusetts in 1973, a Cer- vice. On September 1, 1983, he was ap- he was ordained Lector and Subdeacon tificate of Advanced Graduate Studies pointed Administrator of Patronage of in 1967 at Our Lady of Sorrows Pas- in Educational Administration from the Mother of God Church in Arbutus, sionist Monastery in West Springfield, Northeastern University in Boston, Maryland, having learned to celebrate Massachusetts by Most Rev. Christo- Massachusetts in 1977, a Doctor of the Divine Liturgy in the Byzantine pher J. Weldon, the Bishop of Spring- Ministry in Church Administration Rite. He was released by the Passion- field. He was ordained a deacon in 1967 from Andover Newton Theological ist General for secular priesthood on at Saint. Michael’s Monastery, in Union School in Newton Centre, Massachu- December 3, 1985. Subsequently, he City, New Jersey by Bishop Cuthbert setts in 1977, an MA in Diplomacy and was ascribed to the Ruthenian Byzan- M. O’Gara, C.P. Then he was ordained International Law from Tufts Universi- tine Rite by the Roman authorities on a priest on May 31, 1968 at Saint. Mi- ty in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, January 27, 1986 and then incardinated chael’s Monastery in Union City, New and a Certificate of Chinese Studies in the Eparchy of Passaic and appointed Jersey by Bishop Quentin Olwell, C.P. from the National Minorities Institute Pastor of Patronage Church on April 4, ather Timoney was born Howard in Peking, China (as it was called at the 1986. He served there as beloved pas- Timoney on December 31, 1938 in Father Conan pursued education with time). He became a Certified Social tor for over 35 years and established FBrooklyn, New York. He received the zeal. He received his BA in philosophy Worker in Massachusetts in 1980. Byzantine missions in Abingdon and monastic name Conan at his profession from the Passionist Monastic Seminary Hagerstown, MD as well. in the Passionist Order. Father Conan in Jamaica, New York in 1964. He con- Father Conan was always a whirlwind fell asleep in the Lord on the evening tinued in higher education earning an of activity in service to others. As a Father Conan’s work with the military of December 9, 2019 in Baltimore, MA in Theology from Saint. Michael’s Passionist he became director of their and veterans expanded in the 1980’s. Maryland, a few weeks before his 81st Theologate in Union City, New Jersey retreat center. In the early 1980’s he be- He was appointed a Military Chaplain birthday. Father Conan was baptized in 1968, an MA in sociology from Clark gan to work as a Veteran’s Administra- in the United States Army Reserves in in the faith at Guardian Angel Catho- University in Worcester, Massachusetts tion chaplain in the Baltimore area, and September of 1984. He assisted the lic Church in Brooklyn on January 6, in 1972, an MPA in Public Administra- decided that a parochial work provided Catholic Bishops committee on Veter- 1939. tion from Northeastern University in more geographic stability for his ser- Continued on page 6 +Father Gary Mensinger Reposes in the Lord Pittston, PA ather Gary J. Mensinger, pastor of the Inter-Eparchial Youth and Young role of Santa Claus in the Department’s Saint Michael Byzantine Catholic Adult Commissions and appointed as annual Christmas fundraiser. Always FChurch, Pittston, PA, and Saint Nicho- consultor for the Eparchy of Passaic. community-minded, he went on to las Byzantine Catholic Church, Swoy- serve as a volunteer firefighter in the ersville, PA, fell asleep in the Lord on Preceding him in death were his father, fire departments in the towns of several Friday, Dec. 6, 2019, the Feast of our Robert D. Mensinger; his dear aunt, of his past parishes, including Mahanoy holy father Saint Nicholas of Myra. Agnes Mensinger; and his older broth- City and Old Forge, and was a member er, Robert D. “Chico” Mensinger. of the Saint Jude Council 6440 Knights Born April 9, 1969, he was the son of of Columbus, Mountain Top. Helen and the late Robert D. Mensing- Surviving, in addition to his mother, er, Freeland, PA. His early education Helen, Freeland; are his sister, Janet Being a lover of animals, Father Gary was received at Saint Mary Byzantine Drumn and her husband, Michael, was a voting member on the Board of Catholic School. He attended Freeland Freeland; brother, John A. Mensinger Directors of Tracey’s Hope Hospice High School and played football for and his wife, Karen, Drums; sister- Care Program and Rescue for Domestic the Whippets under Coach Adam Si- in-law, Diane Mensinger, Drums; Animals, where he also served as spiri- Although he knew thousands of peo- eminski. He was a graduate of Luzerne loving nieces and nephews, Robert tual advisor. It was in his affiliation with ple, Father Gary shared no more spe- County Community College and Wil- D. Mensinger III and husband, Tim; Tracey’s Hope that the Father found life- cial bond than the one he had with kes University. In pursuit of his priestly Meredith McGrath and husband, Cul- long friends of uncommon devotion in his beloved mother, Helen. Pillars of calling, he entered Saints Cyril and lin; Jason Mensinger and wife, Katie; the organization’s CEO, Denise Kumor support for one another, the two were Methodius Seminary, Pittsburgh. He Dean Drumn and wife, Holly; Michelle and her family, as well as the privileged always together, and the caring and was ordained to the priesthood on June Rabold and husband, Tyler; Nadine opportunity to rescue Rosie, a displaced devoted son credited his dear mom as 7, 1998, at Saint Michael Byzantine Drumn and fiancé, Bryon Cahalan; beagle whose companionship would his motivation for pursuing the priest- Catholic Church, McAdoo, PA. Prior John Fellin; Jessica Dolan and hus- enrich Father Gary’s life immeasurably hood. Helen and Father Gary shared to his current parishes of Saint Michael, band, Damien; Jacob Mensinger; and every day until her untimely passing in joy and time with one another as much Pittston, and Saint Nicholas, Swoyers- Haleigh Mensinger; along with several October of this year. Father Gary was a as a common faith shared their souls. ville, his assignments included Saints great-nieces and great-nephews. sports enthusiast who was seen at many He was an unceasing source of humor, Peter and Paul Church, Somerset, NJ; local scholastic football and basketball happiness, and inspiration in her life. Saint Mary Church, Trenton, NJ; Saint Young Father Gary was an altar server at games. He especially loved football and Helen’s time spent in the pews of her Mary Church, Mahanoy City; Saint Saint Mary’s, Freeland, and as an adult was a passionate fan of the Philadelphia son’s churches with her spirit moved by Nicholas, Old Forge; and Saint Mary, held a seat on the Freeland Borough Eagles his entire life. A well-known local his preaching won’t ever be forgotten. Taylor. He also served as Syncellate of Council, was a corpsman for the Free- personality, he made many appearances the Susquehanna Syncellate for the Ep- land ambulance and a firefighter and on television and was a regular guest of “Uncle Gary” will be especially missed archy of Passaic and was an instrumen- chaplain for the Freeland Fire Depart- the “Faith on Fire” radio show. by his niece, Haleigh, with whom he tal member of both the Eparchial and ment. Father Gary was a natural in the Continued on page 8

Saint Nicholas Celebrations—pp4-5 March For Life Info—p6 Deacon Retreat—p10 Diaconate Ordination—p11 Page 2 Eastern Catholic Life JANUARY 2020 I Lift Up My Eyes... Pastoral Reflections of Bishop Kurt In the morning, I will sing of Your love. (Psalm 59:16) she would come check on me every bile. However, the people who invent- but our purpose is more noble—our fifteen or twenty minutes to make sure ed the automobile did not do it so that purpose is to love and be loved. When she knew where I was. She didn’t want tires would have a place to live. They we take our inventory to start the new any attention; she just had to check on didn’t even invent automobiles so that year, when we look over everything on me, and then she went back to what- tire manufacturers could give jobs to our shelves to see what we need to keep, ever dogs do when they are in the other people with families, although that is a what we need to discard, and what we room—sleeping I suppose. When I very good thing. The purpose of the au- need to restock, every item in the in- t’s hard to believe it’s 2020 already. I took her for dog training, the trainer told tomobile has nothing to do with tires. ventory should be judged according to remember as a child never imagin- us this: the definition of an untrained our purpose. If you own an exotic pet ingI that I would see 2000. Now there dog is “the world revolves around the Why did God make us? According to store, and you discover three pallets are young adults who never saw the dog;” the definition of a trained dog is our Christian faith, “God is love. And of firecrackers in your storeroom, you last century. When 2000 arrived, there “the world revolves around the master.” he who abides in love, abides in God, would get rid of them, so you can use were some nit-pickers who told us the new century and the new millennium didn’t start until 2001. It’s fun to tell people I went to school in the last century, or I was ordained in the last millennium.

When we start a new year, or even a new day, it’s good to take inventory, to see where we are and where we are going. Whoever wrote the old catechism was very, very wise. It began with the most important question of all, “Who am I?” Before I take an inventory of the house next door, I had better take an inventory in my own house. What is on my shelves? Do I have a shortage of something I need? Do I have things on my shelf that have spoiled and should be discarded? Do I have clothes I’ll never wear again? Actually, I think you could say the same thing and God in him.” “God is love” comes the space for your own purposes. Some the old catechism didn’t say, “Who am about people. When we are babies, the at the end of God’s revelation. Through- things in the storeroom are a waste of I?”, but the first question included it in world revolves around us. When we out the thousand or two thousand years space. Some things, like three pallets a profound way. The first question was grow up, we realize there are others out of God’s revelation, He tells us that He of fireworks, can destroy your store and “Who made me?” That most profound there who also have free will, feelings, loves us, but it is at the very end of rev- kill all the pets. question of all includes several ideas and the desire to be happy. A narcissist elation in the sublime letters of Saint at once: Who am I? How do I fit into is someone who never realizes that oth- John the Beloved Disciple that God If you take an inventory of your shelves the universe? What is my purpose? All er people have the right to happiness reveals this Christian doctrine, “God and storerooms for the new year, keep those questions are combined in that too; they are stuck in babyhood. That is love.” So why did God make us? He in mind your purpose, God made me to wise question, “Who made me?” Af- is why I think that if you began every made us because He is love. And He love and be loved. So, if I look at things ter answering the question with, “God day with those two questions, your day made us in His own image and likeness in the house, a picture of my grand- made me,” the catechism asks, “Why would be turned from darkness to light: so that we share in His divine powers, daughter is worth keeping, a stack of did God make me?” In other words, “Who made me?” “Why did God make powers that no other creatures have, the old magazines might be a waste of what is my purpose? If you began ev- me?” power to create and the power to love. space. The picture of my granddaughter ery day with those two questions, your (When I say that the lower animals are furthers my noble purpose, love. When whole day would be changed from dark Why did God make us? I don’t believe incapable of love, people often bring up we inventory our stock, our most valu- to light, each day would be valuable and He made any of us just so that we could examples to prove that wrong, especial- able resource is time. How will I spend precious. eat, and sleep, and work. Those are all ly with dogs. Well, we made dogs in our my time today? A phone call or a let- important things, and we should enjoy image and likeness through many years ter to someone might be an act of love. I used to have a large dog. It was the them when we can. God gave us plea- of selective breeding. Whether or not Maybe I need to rekindle an old friend- sort of breed that people used to call “a sure and pain so we would enjoy good they are capable of real love I will leave ship. Maybe I need to apologize for an one-man dog.” She was oh so sociable, things and avoid bad things. How- to the philosophers.) injury. Maybe I need to pray for heal- but she only had one master. When she ever, God didn’t make us for just those ing from an injury I suffered. Maybe I was younger, she always knew where I things, just as an automobile wasn’t So, God made us to eat and to sleep and need to check on someone who is sick was, I think, because of that extraordi- made for tires. Tires are essential for to work, and to enjoy these things and or lonely (as my dog used to check one nary hearing that dogs possess. When an automobile, and good tires and the many other things in His beautiful cre- me all day long). she was old and went completely deaf, right tires make for a healthy automo- ation just as a car was made to have tires,

BISHOP’S ANNUAL APPEAL 2019 In gratitude to God and to honor my commitment to the Church, I have prayerfully considered my gift to the Eparchy this year and faithfully pledge: Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic o $5,000.00 o $2,500.00 o $1,000.00 o $ 500.00 o $ 250.00 o Other: $ Change of Address or New Donor? __ Check enclosed OR __ please bill me (*five monthly payments)

Name: ______*Your five monthly payments must be paid in full by May 31, 2020.

Address: ______Please make all checks payable to: “EPARCHY OF PASSAIC” and return by mail to: City/State/Zip: ______445 Lackawanna Ave., Woodland Park, NJ 07424 or: Parish: ______PLEDGE ONLINE at www.eparchyofpassaic.com

RETURN THIS FORM TO THE EPARCHY BY DEC. 31 Monies received after Dec. 31 will be credited to 2020 tax year. 2019 bishop’s appeal

Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic 445 Lackawanna Avenue Woodland Park, NJ 07424 PLEDGE NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2019 JANUARY 2020 Eastern Catholic Life Page 3

If you take an inventory of both things As Catholics, one the things we do bad- If you wish to learn everything about been written and published which are and time, there is nothing worse in ev- ly is to teach children formal prayers. prayer, the most important place to dishonest, hypocritical, and flattering, ery house than the television. At best I say we do it badly because so many learn is in the Book of Psalms. In the and smeared over with fake humility. it is a waste of space. In most houses Catholics and Orthodox never teach Scriptures, we have many prayers that They seem to have been written by a it occupies the center of a shrine like a their children to pray in their own we know were written by God for manipulative person who thought he pagan idol. It doesn’t just sit there like a words, to pray from the heart, to talk to us. They are reliable and trustworthy. could manipulate God. You won’t find pagan idol tempting us to break the first God as their BFF (best friend forever). Most of them are in one book, the Book those in the Book of Psalms. What you commandment. It steals our time and I think so many young people leave the of Psalms. I am often amazed at how will find in the Book of Psalms is King our affections. Like the three pallets of Catholic Church for an evangelical fel- different they are from the prayers that David talking openly and honestly with fireworks, it has the power to destroy lowship because they are invited by a other people write and put into prayer his BFF (best friend forever). everything good around it. Its masters friend to some small group and they books. If you wish to learn prayer, and who control it from afar are not your experience this kind of personal con- if you wish to learn prayer the right way, In the life of King David, there is a story friends; they see you as a way to make versation with God for the first time. and if you wish to actually pray, there about his baby son who was sick. David money. They are determined to destroy The fact is that for two thousand years is no better thing you can do than read begged God to save the boy and fasted your faith in God and to kill your soul our own Church has encouraged per- a psalm every day. In one parish, I en- and humbled himself in public. The to make themselves wealthy and pow- sonal prayer with God in many, many couraged my people to read one psalm baby died anyway. David then cleaned erful. As long as you have faith in God, forms by many names, but these things each day. A woman in the parish, a himself up and ordered a big meal. His they cannot control you, so they are de- are often not taught to our children working wife and mother, said to me a servants thought it was strange and termined to destroy your faith and your because the parents themselves don’t month later, “I have been reading one questioned him. Shouldn’t you be fast- soul. know about them or spend any time psalm each morning as you suggested. ing and miserable since your son died. with them. Every day it seems like that psalm was David replied, what is the point? The As I mentioned above, when we inven- written just for me that day. It is truly baby is dead. As far as he was con- tory our time, we might think of all the A Jesuit priest recently preached a re- supernatural. It has changed my life.” cerned, God had made His decision ways that we can repurpose our time treat to a group of men in Alcoholics Aside from daily communion, there is and taken the child, and David was not towards love: a thank you note, a get Anonymous. He began by question- no surer path to a tight friendship with going to challenge God’s providence. well card, a phone call to keep a friend- ing them about how they interact with your Creator than to pray a psalm every Furthermore, Kind David was not go- ship alive, encouraging a colleague at their wives. Do they do all the talking? day. The psalms were largely written by ing to put on a show of fake sorrow for work, being patient with someone slow. Do they recite things? Do they make all the holy prophet King David and were other people. He asked God for some- When my little nephew had childhood the decisions or give orders? He used recommended to us by God himself thing, and when he didn’t get what he leukemia, he spent eighteen months in the example of ordering in a restaurant. when he included them in the Bible. asked for, he moved on with this life. Texas Children’s Hospital. His paternal He asked the married men if they order grandmother Helen sent him a package for their wives at the restaurant. They The psalms include everything you Starting a new year, even starting a new in the mail every single day. Six days a all laughed at the idea. Every married might ever pray about. They include decade, the third of the new millenni- week he received a little package with man insisted he doesn’t order for his every joy, sorrow, gratitude, pain, um, it’s time to take an inventory of our some small inexpensive toy in it. On wife at a restaurant. One man said betrayal, sadness. They include the house, by which I mean, our body and Mondays he received two packages sheepishly, “I might get into trouble.” beauty of the sky and the earth. They soul. What is on the shelves? What is in since there was no mail on Sunday. For Throughout the retreat the priest said include history from the past, hope the storerooms? What is on the sched- eighteen months she mailed a package that a lot of people “order pizza for for the future, and encouragement for ule? In order to clean house, we need or two every single day. Grandmother God” when they pray. They tell God today. They include learned wisdom a plan, and the plan is summed up in Helen is dead now. I have no doubt that what they want, instead of treating and common sense. The most impor- those great questions: Who made me? God received her soul with the words, God like another person who has free tant single thing that the psalms can Why did God make me? John Denver “Well done, good and faithful servant!” will and intelligence, and perhaps has teach us is honesty. King David did not recorded a song that says, “Blow up a better idea than pizza. As the priest hold back. When he was happy, he told your TV. Throw away your paper. Go If a phone call can keep a friendship pointed out, most of these men prayed God. When he was miserable, he told to the country. Build you a home. Plant alive, how to we keep our friendship in way that showed less respect for God God. When he was angry, he told God. a little garden. Eat a lot of peaches. Try with God alive? Our most important than for their wives. He spent most the When he was betrayed by his friends, to find Jesus on your own.” purpose is to love God and to know retreat explaining how to talk with God he told God. When he felt abandoned His love for us. We make a phone call in friendly conversation as a friend, not by God, he told God. You can’t build to God whenever we pray. There aren’t ordering pizza for God as a controlling a deep friendship with someone by ly- enough pages in this newspaper to talk husband. Most of the men said they ing. There is no reason to put on an about all the different ways there are to had never in their lives been told that act with God. He already knows us pray, but there is no better way to re- they could talk to God in that way. The inside and out. A lot of prayers have purpose time than to pray and to learn Jesuit said that if we stop ordering pizza about prayer. Just think about all the for God, we might find out there are a ways you might keep up a friendship: a lot of other things on the menu in His phone call, a card, a visit, saying hello at great restaurant. a party, and so on. It is the same thing with prayer. There are so many differ- One way to pray is to sit quietly with ent ways to talk to God and to spend God. Dan Rather asked Mother The- From the Office time with God. resa of Calcutta, what do you say when you pray? She answered, “I don’t say of the Bishop As Catholics, one of the things we do well anything. I listen.” So, he followed up, is to teach children formal prayers. If a as interviewers are wont to do, with child learns the Our Father and the Hail the question, “Well okay…when God Mary, then he or she has a treasure for a speaks to you, then, what does He say?” To be Ordained to the lifetime. I remember a movie in which a Mother Theresa said, “He doesn’t say Order of Deacon character was destroyed in the most hor- anything. He listens.” Dan Rather has rific ways by an evil acquaintance. When spoken publicly about the times he he came to realize the extent of the dam- met Mother Theresa. In one talk, Dan age, he collapsed on his knees. When the Rather describes the unimaginable gar- Subdeacon Richard Ballard camera closed in on his moving lips, we bage heaps in Calcutta, and how seven Saturday, January 18, 2020, 10:00 AM realized he was saying the “Hail Mary.” days a week Mother Theresa and her Saint Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church It was really quite a touching and inspir- followers went through those garbage Orlando, Florida ing scene in an otherwise unwholesome heaps in the early morning looking for movie. He then exacted his revenge for infants that were thrown away, and of- Subdeacon Robert Knapp the rest of the movie—a rather unchris- ten finding some who were still alive. Saturday, January 25, 2020, 10:00 AM tian quest—but that’s Hollywood. That Mother found the strength to do that Resurrection of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic moment of piety in the movie was still a work relentlessly by starting every day Church reminder of the power of these prayers we with Mass and prayer and sitting quiet- Smithtown, New York memorized as children, that they can be ly with God. In another place, Mother our only companion at a time of great cri- said, “Before you speak, it is necessary Subdeacon John Harden sis. How many times I have prayed these for you to listen, for God speaks in the Saturday, February 1, 2020, 10:00 AM prayers with the sick and the dying, com- silence of the heart.” Saint Michael Byzantine Catholic Church forting them and their families as well. Mont Clare, Pennsylvania Page 4 Eastern Catholic Life JANUARY 2020 People You Know Around the Eparchy In Hillsborough... In Nesquehoning... Icon Corners Installed Saint Nicholas he children of the ECF Program at Saint Mary Byzantine Catholic Church Festival were excited to have icon corners installed in each of their classrooms. This way,T they can say their prayers before each class in front of the icons in the icon aint Mary’s Byzantine Catholic corners that were donated by GCU Lodge 254. Father James Badeaux is the pastor Church in Nesquehoning, PA held of Saint Mary Churh and Ms. Julie Klikus is the ECF Coordinator. itsS annual Saint. Nicholas Festival on Saturday, December 7, 2019, in the church hall. The usual ethnic favorites halupki, haluski and pirohi were sold, bringing in many people from the sur- rounding communities. The bake sale, grab bags and the chancing of baskets are also community favorites. Ethnic music was provided by Ed Kusko, on his accordion and Saint Nicholas made his annual visit to greet all. In Jersey City... Saint Nicholas Celebration n December 1, 2019, Saint Mary Parish of Jersey City, NJ, under the guidance of our Parochial Administrator Father Gregory Lozinskyy, celebrated theO Feast of Saint Nicholas. Following the Divine Liturgy, parishioners, former parishioners, friends, and children enjoyed an afternoon of delicious ethnic food, fun, and a visit from Saint Nicholas. Saint Nicholas brought gifts for all the children. With 175 people in attendance, it was a huge success.

In White Plains... Saint Nicholas Celebration aint Nicholas of Myra Church in White Plains, NJ, celebrated its patronal feast on Sunday, December 8, 2019. It started with a Divine Liturgy celebrated byS Father Ihor Vorontsov, followed by a delicious dinner at the parish’s carriage house. There was a visit from Saint Nicholas who surprised the children with gifts. A good time was had by all!

In Rahway... Christmas at Sea Program he most recent project of the Knitters and Crocheters of Saint Thomas the Apostle Byzantine Catholic Church in Rahway, NJ, involved making hats and scarvesT for the “Christmas at Sea” program that is run by the Seamen’s Church In- stitute. Seafarers hail from all over the world - Egypt, Australia, Ukraine, the Philip- pines, Sri Lanka - and they generally serve 6-9 month-long contracts, so they often spend the holidays in foreign waters, away from family and friends. The mariners are faced with a hazardous and lonely lifestyle in order to make our modern way of life possible. A handmade gift of a hat and scarf helps to ease their homesickness, and warms their bodies and souls. In a little over a month, we made 22 hat and scarf sets - enough for every mariner on a boat. In addition, we attached a “pocket protector”, also handmade, with a note saying that we are praying for them. Father Jim Hayer is the pastor of Saint Thomas Parish. JANUARY 2020 Eastern Catholic Life Page 5 In Lansford... In Westbury... Saint Nicholas Saint Nicholas Celebration Celebration n December 1, Saint Andrew Byzantine Catholic Church celebrated its patronal feast, along with a celebration of Saint Nicholas. All the parishioners he parish family of Saint John andO guests were very surprised with the early visit from Saint Nick. Not only were the Baptist Byzantine Catholic the children surprised, but seminarians from the House of Formation Seminary in ChurchT in Lansford, PA, enjoyed a de- Queens along with the brothers from Saint Josaphat Monastery and Sister Kata- licious Christmas Dinner at La Dolce rina from Saint Joseph Home for the Aged were also happy to see the holy saint. A Casa in Tamaqua, PA. Traditional Sla- wonderful day was experienced by all. Father Nicholas Daddona is the adminis- vonic carols were sung under the direc- trator of Saint Andrew Parish. tion of Cantor Bill Gribble and musi- cal entertainment was provided by an accordionist. The highlight of the celebration was a visit by Saint Nicholas. Saint John Parish is served by Father Vasyl Chepelskyy.

n Sunday Nov. 17th 55 seminarians and their rector from The House of For- mation in Queens, New York came to Saint Andrews Church to celebrate theO Divine Liturgy with the parishioners. After the liturgy the parish invited to men to have lunch with them. It was a wonderful day had by all. It truly showed the universality of the Church. The parish and the deacons of the eparchy helped the seminarians with their apostolate to the poor of New Your City. Both groups In Cary... contributed items need to assist those less fortunate. Father Nick collected items from the deacons at their annual Deacon’s retreat and presented them to the men Twelfth Annual Christmas involved in the Midnight Run Apostolate. Father Nicholas Daddona is the Admin- Market Brings Joy istrator of Saint Andrews along with being the Director of Deacons. ooking forward to the celebration of the Nativity of Our Lord, Saints Cyr- il and Methodius parishioners in Cary, NC, once again worked together to bringL a taste of a European Christmas market to the Raleigh area. Saturday’s sun- shine brought out the customers after Friday evening’s wet weather on the second weekend of December. Saint Nicholas cheerily greeted the crowds as they made their way past Baba’s Kitchen booth selling the parish’s baked goods and frozen kielbasa. Some people came from hours away, and many attended for the first time, eager to try the hot pierogi plate, halupki soup, borscht, and kielbasa topped with warm sauerkraut. If they had room for dessert, they could choose from a wide variety of cheese- cakes; German chocolate, Irish apple whiskey, and limoncello cakes; double chocolate cupcakes; and sweet ginger- bread men. The sounds of carols and In Roswell... seasonal songs filled the air as shop- pers looked over glass ornaments from Saint Nicholas Celebration the Czech Republic, cashmere scarves from Scotland, vintage linens from fter the Feast of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker and on the Feast of the Maternity of the Holy Anna, the parishioners of Epiphany of Our Lord in Ro- Germany, colorful pottery from Poland Aswell, GA, gathered with their administrator, Father Lewis Rabayda, to celebrate and more in the parish’s retail square. these two feasts. After the Divine Liturgy all enjoyed an hors d’oeuvres luncheon Russian teas, French cheeses, carved and were surprised by a visit from Saint Nicholas who gave oranges and a tryptic woodwork, and stationery were add- of the Theotokos to the youth. ed this year to the various European groceries, pastas, mustards, olive oil, and crafts in the vendor village. The market provided not only a chance to build memories and experience a bit of Europe, but also a chance to find out about Saints Cyril and Methodius Par- ish, its Eastern Catholic traditions and its hopes for the future. Christ is Born! Page 6 Eastern Catholic Life JANUARY 2020

a mission for the Byzantine Catholics The family would like to thank the Pa- +Father Conan H. Timoney in the area, and the mission eventu- tronage Community and the many Enters Eternal Rest ally purchased a property including a home health aides for their help and church and rectory. The Myrtle Beach support through Father’s illness. Continued from page 1 Mission has been a popular “dacha” for our married clergy and their families in Family and friends gathered for a pub- ans Administration chaplains to formu- Notre Dame University, for which he recent years, and Father Conan allowed lic visitation at Patronage of the Mother late standards for Catholic chaplains, served on the Executive Board. them to use his personal home. of God Byzantine Catholic Church and these standards were promulgated on Monday, December 16, from 2:30- in 1987 with recognition for Father When Bishop Pataki instituted the sys- Father Conan cast a long shadow in his 6:30 PM where the Office of Burial Conan. tem of Syncellus and Protopresbyter for ministry, touching the lives of count- for a priest will be prayed at 6:30 PM. the Eparchy of Passaic, Father Conan less people over decades up and down The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was Father Conan was the Chaplain at the was appointed Protopresbyter for the the east coast. He will be remembered celebrated at Patronage of the Mother Lock Raven Veterans Administration Middle States of the Eparchy of Passaic as the consummate shepherd, laying of God Byzantine Church on Tuesday, Medical Center for 20 years, and in in 1996 and remained in that office un- down his life for his flock, and not run- December 17, at 10:30 AM. addition he was State Chaplain for the til the present. With the office of Pro- ning when the wolf or the lion threat- Maryland State Department of Catho- topresbyter, he received the title “Very ened his sheep. Family and friends also gathered at lic War Veterans for 15 years. Reverend”. As Protopresbyter, he was Saint Andrew the Apostle Byzantine responsible to audit the sacramental Father Conan was predeceased by his Catholic Church, Westbury, NY, for a He was an active member of many pro- records and finances of all the parishes mother and father, Patrick and Mar- public visitation on Saturday, Decem- fessional societies including American in his region and took responsibility garet Gilhooley, his sister, Margaret ber 21, from 10-11 AM, where the Public Administration Society, Society for the eparchial farm in southwest Vir- (Francis) Albert, and his brothers, the service will take place at 11 AM. Inter- for the Scientific Study of Religion, ginia. He fulfilled all his administrative Reverend Monsignor John P. Gilhool- ment immediately followed at Saint American Educational Research Asso- responsibilities with diligence, charity, ey, and Patrick Mackey. He is survived Charles Cemetery, 2015 Wellwood ciation, American Academy of Political and a sense of humor. by his sister-in-law, Patricia Mackey, Ave, Farmingdale, NY, 11735. Science, Association for the Sociology and Frank (Kathie) Albert as well as of Religion, Institute of Religious Edu- Father Conan hoped to retire in the many grandnieces and grandnephews, cation and Pastoral Ministry of Boston Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina. and their spouses and children. College, and Retreats International of After acquiring a home there, he began

ritual. It was a new church Conan +Father Conan H. Timoney’s 25 Anniversary of was called to serve as priest. It was a Ordination Homily new people of God he would minister to. Both he and they were steeped Delivered by Father Joseph Jones C.P. on 5/30/1993 in centuries of tradition, but each was now being called to work together, wenty-five years ago, eleven ner- ing to serve.” When the bishop heard tional Roman, Gothic, Baroque setting, priest and people, to build up the vous deacons knelt before Bishop that response, he began the ordination but entirely in English. Previous or- Body of Christ in collaborative minis- QuentinT Olwell in the Gothic splen- ceremony. daining prelates insisted on Latin texts. try through the sacraments of Baptism dor of Saint Michael Church in Union This prelate insisted on the vernacular, and Holy Orders. In the words of the City, NJ. This was the site for ordina- Conan and his classmates prostrated so that both priests and people could ritual Conan was told “...know what you tions to the priesthood and departure themselves before the Baroque mar- hear plainly what God was calling them are doing and imitate the mystery you ceremonies to the foreign missions for ble altar, as bishop and people knelt to as a new church. celebrate... when you baptize, you bring the Passionist Community since 1864. invoking the saints for those to be or- men and women into the people of It was not surprising then that the ordained that day. Once they rose and Conan heard loud and clear what the God. In the sacrament of Penance, you daining prelate was a former Chinese felt the bishop’s hands on each of their challenge was in the words of the or- will forgive sins in the name of Christ missionary, now serving as bishop in heads, they would become priests for- dination ritual: “...apply your energies and the Church, with holy oil you will the Philippines in the Prelature of Mar- ever. Like the prelate ordaining them to the duty of teaching in the name relieve and console the sick. You will bel. they would be dedicated to willing of Christ. Share with all mankind the celebrate the liturgy and offer thanks service to all God’s people, anywhere word of God you have received with and praise to G od throughout the day, One by one, he called each candidate in the world. joy. Meditate on the law of God, believe praying not only for the people of God by name. Among them was Conan what you read, teach what you believe, but for the whole world.” Howard Timoney. He, like the oth- It is significant that this particular ordi- and put into practice what you teach.” ers, when he heard his name, stepped nation took place shortly after the Sec- Conan applied himself immediately forward, blew out his candle, and said ond Vatican Council ended. It is also The impact of Vatican II was evident to the task with his usual enthusiasm, “ADSUM.” “I am here, ready and will- significant that it took place in a tradi- in the words of the revised ordination creativity and joy. No one loved a 2020 Vigil For Life Events, Washington, DC The Friday Liturgy in Annandale will be followed by a light lunch in the parish center. Thursday, January 23, 2020 Since the March starts at noon, it is better to park your car at Epiphany Church and Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, be ferried to the Dunn Loring Metro Station OR park at Dunn Loring Metro Station on Washington, DC Gallows Rd. This is the easiest way to get to the March from Epiphany Parish. 5:30 - 7:30 PM Opening Mass - Great Upper Church Principal Celebrant & Homilist: Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, Chairman, USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities 8:00 - 9:00 PM National Rosary for Life - Crypt Church (lower level) 9:30 - 10:30 PM Small Compline (Byzantine Rite) - Crypt Church Celebrant: Bishop Kurt Burnette, Homilist: TBD Thursday evening schedule subject to change according to the Shrine organizers. Friday, January 24, 2020 Epiphany of Our Lord, 3410 Woodburne Rd., Annandale, VA, 22003 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy - Celebrant: Bishop Kurt Burnette, Very Rev. John G. Basarab JANUARY 2020 Eastern Catholic Life Page 7

challenge more than he, and no one self in all his “busyness” and made him antine Catholic Diocese of Passaic, re- praying from the Roman Sacramen- responded more generously. His first available to cry with anyone in need. ceived Conan into his jurisdiction and tary of Vatican II, or the Divine Liturgy assignment took him to New England And there were many whose tears appointed him pastor of the Patronage of Saint John Chrysostom, didn’t mat- as Associate Director of Calvary Re- he wiped away, and whose spirits he of the Mother of God Byzantine Cath- ter. What mattered was that he was treat Center in Shrewsbury, MA. There raised. The first ten years were a realiza- olic Church in Baltimore, MD. It had praising God. For Conan, whether he organized youth ministries Mondays tion of the mandate of the ordination two daughter churches attached: Saint standing at an altar facing the people in through Thursdays; Adult weekends, ritual: “Remember that you are chosen Francis in Abingdon, and Saint Ann in the new Roman tradition or standing Fridays through Sundays; and Renewal from among God’s people and appoint- Hagerstown. at an altar behind an Iconostasis didn’t Programs for Professed Religious Sun- ed to act for them in relation to God. matter. What mattered was that he was day evenings. Do your part in the work of Christ the No sooner did he get into these three standing with God’s people offering Eu- priest with genuine joy and love, and parish settings when he branched out charist. For Conan, whether vested in attend to the concerns of Christ before into part-time teaching at Saint Mary a Gothic chasuble of Rome, or wearing your own ...seek to bring the faithful to- Seminary, Roland Park, and the Com- the Felon of Byzantium didn’t matter. gether into a unified family, and to lead munity College in Catonsville. There What mattered was that he was vested them effectively, through Christ and in he became aware of the shortage of to lead the people in their worship of the Holy Spirit, to God the Father.” chaplains at two V.A. hospitals and G od. For Conan, whether using Latin, made himself available at Fort How- Old Slavonic or English didn’t matter. In 1978 he was elected Superior of the ard and the Baltimore Medical Center. What mattered was proclaiming the Monastery and Director of the Retreat During this time, he completely reno- word of God effectively, so that God’s Center. Now that he was in charge vated the church of the Patronage of people could live by it. there was no stopping him. Activities the Mother of God. He moved from and ministries increased. Conan not one activity to another without ever As priest, for 25 years Conan’s prayers, only showed excellent qualities in his showing any annoyance, frustration or Roman or Byzantine, have risen before leadership roles but was always pres- any sense of being over-burdened. He the Lord like incense in praise, peti- ent in the front lines of ministry. It was gave totally of himself to his new-found tion and benediction. For 25 years his during this period that he was certified people and ministry, involving them in hands have been raised like an evening as a licensed clinical social worker in every step of the way. The second de- offering mediating graces and bless- the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. cade of service to God’s people was as ings between God and his people every Harvard University sent him to China enthusiastic, creative and joyful as the time the sacrament was celebrated. For While all this was in motion, he con- to teach English. While there he ob- first. 25 years his ministry has enriched the tinued his own academic development tained a certificate in Chinese studies lives of so many people in both tradi- by pursuing degrees at Clark, North- from the National Minorities Institute Today we gather to honor this priest of tions, Roman and Byzantine. Today eastern, Andover Newton Theological, in Beijing. Christ on the occasion of his 25th an- we thank God for this energetic priest Tufts and Harvard Universities. I had niversary of sacred ministry. Half these who has taught us all what it really the joy of working with him during six When his term as Rector came to a years were spent serving the Roman means to be Church. May you have of those ten years. I don’t know how close, he felt a call to branch out into a Church; half the Byzantine Church. many more years of joyful, creative he kept it all together, but he did. And new world of ministry. He sought and To Conan there is no difference – it’s ministry, Conan Howard Timoney, through it all he never lost his sense of obtained permission to work with Byz- all Church, God’s holy people. In him priest of Jesus Christ! humor or compassion. I think those antine Catholics. The Most Reverend East and West have met, and both have two qualities made him laugh at him- Michael J. Dudick, Bishop of the Byz- been blessed. For Conan, whether Crowned in Love SAVE THE DATE p A Byzantine Pre-Cana Program P Sponsored by the Syncellate for the State of New Jersey SATURDAY, FEB 8 Saturday, February 8, 2020. 9AM to 4PM 9AM – 4PM

Saint Michael Chapel, 415 Lackawanna Avenue, Woodland Park, NJ. The facility is entirely handicapped-accessible. You bring the gifts that Jesus Christ will transform to make your relationship a sacrament where He Himself is present. Discover how the “ordinary” ways you share your life as a couple and a family can participate in this mystery. A hot luncheon will be served. There will be time for indi- vidual counseling and the Sacrament of Repentance. Couples planning to marry before spring 2021 are urged to attend. For more information, contact your pastor or call Father Jack Custer at 973-777-2553. Presenters Deacon Thomas Shubeck, PhD, a father of three with Michael and Lisann Castagno have been married for Caroline, his wife of 25 years, serves at Saint Thomas 24 years and have three daughters. They have been the Apostle Parish in Rahway, NJ, and at Seton Hall Uni- involved in marriage preparation and youth ministry versity. Much of his 30 years as a licensed psychologist in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia for many years, has been spent providing therapy services to married speaking especially about the beauty of God’s design couples and families. for marriage, by proclaiming the good news of Natural Family Planning.

Ann Koshute, MTS, earned a Master’s degree at the Father Jack Custer has prepared over 100 couples for Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Marriage and Family marriage in his 35 years of priesthood. He holds de- at the Catholic University of America. She speaks and grees in Scripture and Theology and currently serves writes on marriage and family issues, has served in the as Rector of Saint Michael’s Cathedral. Family Life ministries of several dioceses, and teaches theology at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine. She and her husband, Keith, have been married for 7 years. Page 8 Eastern Catholic Life JANUARY 2020

+Father Gary Mensinger Reposes in the Lord Continued from page 1 : Photos by Mary Anne Fedor hared many common pursuits and took his active role in the lives of so many sorely. Go deservingly with God and Divine Liturgy immediately following many day trips. Together, they spent defy summary and his ministry lives await our jubilant reunion in Heaven. at 10:30 AM. countless hours making memories and on in the hearts and memories of the You’ll be loved and remembered al- sharing treasured moments on excur- many people whose lives were touched ways. Memorial donations may be made sions to Lake Tobias, Kalahari Resort by his ever-positive energy. His contin- to Saint Michael Byzantine Catholic and the Adventure Aquarium to name ued generosity will ultimately be real- Visitation was held from 4 until 6 PM Church, Pittston; Saint Nicholas Byz- a few. Father Gary often referred to Ha- ized through gifts of organ donation: Wednesday, December 11, in Saint Mi- antine Catholic Church, Swoyersville; leigh as “the light of his life.” his kidneys, liver, and corneas offering chael Byzantine Catholic Church, 205 Saint Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, health anew to those in need. N. Main St., Pittston, with Office of Freeland, and Tracey’s Hope Hospice Father Gary was a joyous and generous Christian Burial for a Priest following Care Program and Rescue for Domestic person whose desire to laugh was sur- Thank you and good night, our dear at 6 PM A second visitation took place Animals, Inc. McHugh-Wilczek Funer- passed only by his desire to bring joy Father Gary; anointed and exemplary from 8:30 to 10 AM Thursday, Decem- al Home, 249 Centre Street, Freeland, and laughter to everyone he encoun- minister, son, brother, uncle and hero. ber 12, in Saint Mary Byzantine Catho- was in charge of the arrangements. tered. His jovial, outgoing nature and All we who knew you will miss you lic Church, 643 Fern St., Freeland, with

When traveling to the South, please visit our churches

All Saints Epiphany of Our Lord Holy Dormition Our Lady of the Sign Saint Therese 10291 Bayshore Road 2030 Old Alabama Road 17 Buckskin Lane 7311 Lyons Road 4265 13th Avenue North North Fort Myers, FL 33917 Roswell, GA 30076 Ormond Beach, FL 32174 Coconut Creek, FL 33073 Saint Petersburg, FL 33713 1-239-599-4023 1-770-993-0973 1-386-677-8704 1-954-429-0056 1-727-323-4022 Saint Anne Saint Basil the Great Saints Cyril and Metho- Saint Nicholas of Myra 7120 Massachusetts Ave. 1475 N.E. 199th Street dius 5135 Sand Lake Road New Port Richey, FL 34653 Miami, FL 33179-5162 1002 Bahama Avenue Orlando, FL 32819 1-727-849-1190 1-786-320-5125 Fort Pierce, FL 34982 1-407-351-0133 1-772-595-1021 JANUARY 2020 Eastern Catholic Life Page 9

Blessed Miriam Teresa’s 5th Anniversary he parish family of Saint John ing RC parish, and altar servers Mark singing the responses was outstanding. the Baptist Byzantine Catholic and Miguel. We also appreciate the assistance of Car- ChurchT in Bayonne would like to ex- la and Chelsea Aceti, Co-Directors of tend our gratitude to everyone who There were approximately 150 faith- the East Jersey Elite Allstars, who were helped to make the Pontifical Divine ful individuals in attendance. Among a tremendous help to us with the recep- Liturgy commemorating the Fifth An- them were Father John Fencik, Pastor tion following the liturgy. niversary of the Beatification of Blessed of Saint Mary Orthodox Church; Sister Miriam Teresa Demjanovich, S.C., on Mary Canavan, SC, the Vice Postulator Saint John Church is beginning a Devo- Saturday, October 5, 2019, a tremen- of the Blessed Miriam Teresa League tion to Blessed Miriam Teresa every last dous success. of Prayer; Sisters from the Sisters of Sunday of the month starting on Octo- Charity; Seton Associates; Brother Ed ber 27, 2019. The Mystery of Reconcili- We are especially grateful to Bishop Demyanovich and Bayonne Council ation is at 3:30 PM followed by a Divine Kurt Burnette the main celebrant and Members. Liturgy and Moleben for Blessed Miriam homilist. The concelebrants were Father Teresa at 4:00 PM. We invite everyone to Marcel Szabo, Father Gregory Lozin- We are also thankful to the Northern Jer- join us in prayer for Blessed Miriam Te- skyy, Father Michael, from a neighbor- sey Catholic Chorale; their performance resa, as we seek her intercession to God and pray for her canonization. Page 10 Eastern Catholic Life JANUARY 2020

Annual Deacon Retreat Held at Our Lady of the Villa By Deacon Thomas Paul Shubeck, Photos by Deacon Stephen Russo

his year’s deacon retreat at Our Bishop Kurt set aside his entire week- Franciscans. Father Richard grew up in The retreatants departed for their fami- Lady of the Villa in Mount Pocono end to be at the retreat. He led a round the Ukrainian Catholic Church and is lies and parishes after Sunday brunch Tbrought together deacons, subdeacons, table discussion on Saturday evening. bi-ritual. Father Richard offered fresh uniformly renewed and refreshed. Sub- an ordained reader, and the newest class It was a fruitful exchange in which im- insights which might serve to help re- deacon John Harden commented how of deacon candidates as well as a Ro- portant topics were discussed ranging fresh and renew those in ministry who “it’s always nice to step back out of the man Catholic deacon who is discern- from recent scandals in the American may be feeling discouraged by the chal- world and reflect more closely on how ing a transfer of rites to the Byzantine church to evangelization. lenges of our times. It is precisely these we can better get out of the way and let Church. Because the eparchy is so vast, challenging times that makes it all the God do his work through us.” the annual deacon’s retreat is the one Subdeacon John Reed and Deacon Ed more important for the deacon to be time these men are able to join one Quinn took a few minutes to remember a prophetic disciple of Christ. Father Deacon Ed Quinn gave a superlative another in prayer and fellowship. Dea- Deacon Michael Paul Tisma who unex- Richard noted that the prophet stands review to the retreat saying the confer- con Elmer Pekarik observed that “It’s pectedly fell asleep in the Lord in early up against injustice wherever it is found. ences were the “most meaningful ever” fantastic that we come from so many September. Deacon Michael had been He said, “The world needs to know the and that he was given “ideas to take backgrounds and have one single jour- a regular at the annual deacon retreat hope that is in you. Someone is wait- home.” Deacon candidate Michael Si- ney together as deacons.” In fact, the since 2011 and always brought his big ing for you to hear their story and wait- vulich was similarly impressed saying, retreatants came together from as far (in the best sense of the word) person- ing for you to give them hope.” Due to “I’ve grown spiritually listening to Fa- south as Florida and as far north as New ality, warmth and prayerfulness with declining faith, he said, many are lost. ther [Richard]. The retreat surpassed England. Father Nicholas Daddona, Di- him. His presence was missed at this Even deacons may, at times, feel lost in my expectations.” Until next year…. rector of Deacons, planned the retreat. year’s retreat. the ministry. Father Richard’s remedy Father David Baratelli who directs the for that is to “respect what it is we are eparchy’s safe environment program The retreat master was Franciscan Fa- fighting against: evil and indifference” presented the latest news of the epar- ther Richard Mucowski, OFM, who and to “stay out of the way of the Gos- chy’s efforts to assure that the faithful of is pastor of a north Jersey Roman pel.” all ages, from cradle to grave, are safe. Catholic parish ministered to by the JANUARY 2020 Eastern Catholic Life Page 11

New Deacon Ordained in Roswell, Georgia Bishop Kurt Ordains Subdeacon John Reed to the Order of the Diaconate

he parish family of Epiphany of James Badeaux-pastor of Saint Mary in Ghost, Philadelphia, PA, was the mas- He is also a ham radio operator, holding Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Hillsborough, NJ, and Saint Nicholas ter of ceremonies. Over 110 parishio- the callsign N4TII. ChurchT in Roswell, GA had much to in Dunellen, NJ; Father George Gage, ners, friends, and family were gathered celebrate on December 14th—Subdea- retired priest of the Romanian Catho- to celebrate the occasion. When asked to reflect on his ordina- con John Reed was elevated to the Holy lic Eparchy of Canton; Father Deacon tion, Deacon John remarked, "From my Order of Deacon by Bishop Kurt. Dea- James Smith of Epiphany and Father Father Deacon John was born in Hunts- earliest days, I've always felt a restless- con John is the 4th Diaconal Vocation Deacon Michael Guerucci of Mother ville, AL, but has lived in suburban At- ness when sitting in the pew. It was a from Epiphany. Deacon John follows in of God Ukrainian Catholic Church in lanta all his life. He and his wife, Tara compulsion to leave the pew, come for- the footsteps of Deacon James Smith, Conyers, GA. Subdeacon John Hard- Reed, will celebrate 25 years of mar- ward and do more. From being an altar ordained in 2016, as well as Deacons en, classmate of the newly-ordained riage in October, 2020. Deacon John boy at 10 years old, to being a reader, Charles Appel and Michael Tisma both Deacon John, also traveled to Roswell has been active at Epiphany since join- cantor, or what have you—this was my of blessed memory. to assist. Fathers Volodymyr Petrytsya ing the parish in 2005, serving as an al- response to Jesus' first words recorded

Father Lewis Rabayda leads Ordinand John Reed around the Holy Table while the clergy Bishop Kurt lays his hands on the Ordinand John Reed as he prays the prayer of ordination and faithful sing the troparia of the martyrs

Bishop Kurt was the principal cel- of Mother of God Ukrainian Catholic, tar server, reader, cantor, and catechist. in the Gospel of Saint John, "What is it ebrant with concelebrants: Father Conyers, GA, and Father Eric Hill of He is also the parish prosphora (Com- that you seek?" I seek the Christ and to Lewis Rabayda, parochial administra- Prince of Peace Roman Catholic, Flow- munion bread) baker. He leads the par- serve Him as best as I can. I am truly tor of Epiphany; Father Philip Scott, ery Branch, GA, Father Brian Baker of ish lay reader team and teaches in the humbled and grateful to God and to retired pastor of Epiphany; Father Saint Peter Chanel Roman Catholic parish adult education program. He is Bishop Kurt for this opportunity to Marcel Szabo, retired rector of the ep- Church in Roswell, GA, and Deacon currently employed by Hewlett Pack- serve Christ and His flock." archial cathedral; Father Robert Pipta, Gerry Kazin of Saint Benedict Ro- ard Enterprise as a datacenter solutions rector of Saints Cyril and Methodius man Catholic, Johns Creek, attended engineer. In his free time, he loves hik- Byzantine Catholic Seminary, Father in choir. Father Ed Higgins, of Holy ing, backpacking, and home brewing.

The newly-ordained Deacon John Reed leads Deacon John Reed holds a papal blessin front: Deacon John Reed and his wife, Tara; Father Eric Hill; Father James Badeaux; server Wil- his first petition from Pope Francis liam P. back: Father Lewis Rabayda, Deacon Candidate Alex Adekambi, and George Petrik Page 12 Eastern Catholic Life JANUARY 2020

Life, Love, and the Human Person By Ann M. Koshute, MTS At Church in the Home

s a newly married woman I did the “liturgy of the home” connects us to and receive in the Divine Liturgy to cre- priest’s gestures (blessing, hands raised my best to transition from buy- the Divine Liturgy. ate a “little liturgy” in our homes. The in prayer, bowing, etc.), and the ones ingA the ingredients for an evening’s first is to physically create a space that we make, too. Everything we do has meal for myself on my way home from Though I don’t now the origins of the reveals who the Master of our house- meaning, and yet every bowed head or work (or ordering take-out with my “blessing ritual” my mother taught me hold is. Look around your house or Sign of the Cross is second nature to us. housemates) to grocery shopping for by example, I feel quite certain that she room. It’s likely you have photos of Most times we don’t even have to think a week or two at a time and construct- was unfamiliar with Saint Paul’s greet- people you love displayed to remind about what to do next because it’s such ing a menu for two. One day my new ing to Prisca and Aquila and “the church you of good times together and keep a part of us. This is the attitude that husband came into the kitchen just as at their house.” (Romans 16:5) Nor did them close even when they’re far away. should pervade everything we do in I was putting dinner in the oven and she know that Saint John Chrysostom We should do the same with the Lord our homes; every bag of trash taken to was one among many early Church Fa- by hanging a crucifix on the wall, set- the curb, every dish washed, mortgage thers who preached and wrote about ting up an icon corner, and having holy check written, and cozy night spent the family home as a “little church.” My water accessible for anytime we need on the couch with loved ones should mom didn’t walk around our house de- a blessing. Images of Christ and the be offerings to God. It’s not necessary scribing it as our “domestic church,” but saints help us remember they’re with to consciously think, “This is for You, she didn’t have to do that. It was some- us, interceding for us and protecting Lord!” each time we clean the house thing that she, and the previous genera- us. They also show those entering our or make the bed. But we should culti- tions of both sides of our family, knew home that we believe in the one true vate an overall attitude of self-offering. instinctively. That the home in which God and may serve as an example and At night when we say our prayers be- we live is also God’s home was unspo- inspiration for their faith. fore bed (yes, that’s a must in our little ken but taken as a given. To be sure, we church!) we should look over our day lived imperfectly in our “little church,” Another way to make our homes “little and recall those words and actions that but even in those times where our churches” is to set up our household gave glory to God and offered peace home didn’t seem a fit place for Him under the model of the Divine Liturgy. and gratitude (and sought reconcilia- shot me a perplexed look as I stood and to lay His head (Luke 9:58), we even- The Liturgy is a dialogue with God, and tion) with others. turned to prepare the rest of the meal. tually recognized where we fell short all the participants (priest and people) “What was that?” he asked. I knew im- and did our best to “spiritually tidy up” take our turns to “speak,” and listen. We can all think of other ways to make mediately that he was puzzled at my the home. And this is what God asks We ask for what we need, give thanks our homes “little churches,” where we gesturing over the roasting pan before of us. He knows that the churches of for what we have, and seek forgiveness more intentionally give glory to God I shut the oven door. “I was blessing our homes get messy, and that we lazily when we fall short. In the Liturgy we and offer His love to others. Let’s adorn our food, of course!” It was probably let the spiritual junk pile up. But He is (symbolically) gather around the Table our “churches” with love and hospital- the first time anyone had seen me do like the best and most gracious house- and receive the nourishment that fuels ity, sweep them clean with acts of kind- this, and certainly the first time I had guest who jumps up to clear the dishes our lives. Our home church should fall ness and forgiveness, and set our tables the chance to explain a ritual that had and help the hosts get things in order. into this same rhythm. Whatever our with a place to welcome One more. become second nature to me whenever God may not do the dishes for us, but family or living situation, we can make I cooked. My earliest memories of my He does help us get our homes “back our house or our room hospitable to mother preparing a meal for our fam- to church.” The difference between the others, where we talk with each other ily are all imprinted with the picture of Lord and any other houseguest, howev- (learning when to speak, and when it’s her blessing the food with the Sign of er, is that we should make a permanent best to stay silent) gather around our the Cross before closing the oven door. place for Him in our homes. When we tables to share a meal with each other Without fail, my mother blessed the go to church and pray the Divine Lit- (not with the television or phone), to food she prepared for us, a simple yet urgy, we are not simply visitors, but express gratitude and say “I’m sorry” profound sign of her wish that the food family members communing with our when we hurt each other. The more we would nourish and sustain us. Being a loving God. When we leave church, practice, the clearer the connection be- natural worrier, I’m sure she also made we don’t say “Goodbye,” but take God tween the Divine Liturgy and the “lit- it a prayer that nothing spoiled or un- home with us so that He can transform urgy of the home” will become. dercooked would harm us. To this day our homes into His. The question is, I don’t know if she learned this ritual how do we cooperate with God and al- One final suggestion for making our from childhood or thought of it on her low Him to make our homes into His homes “little churches” is simple, but own. Regardless of how and why, the little church? rarely occurs to us: make everything act of blessing food as it is being pre- we do into an act of love, service, re- pared is a profound exercise of faith and Here are three suggestions that may pentance and thanksgiving. Think thanksgiving, and it is one way in which help us take what we believe, celebrate about the Divine Liturgy and all the

EasternEASTERN CATHOLIC Catholic RADIO Radio by Father Francis Rella Celebrating Eastern Eastern Catholic Radio is a produc- tinues with funding from Our Lady of tion of Eastern Catholic Broadcasting, Perpetual Help Parish in Toms River, Christianity and all things a media Apostolate affiliated with the NJ, and private donations. For the past Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic. 10 months, Eastern Catholic Radio has Catholic With the permission of Bishop Kurt beta-tested the station, without any for- Burnette, the apostolate was founded in mal advertising and publicity. So far, 2014 at Saint Joseph Byzantine Catho- over 250,000 listeners have tuned in to lic Church in New Brunswick, NJ, and Eastern Catholic Radio from around astern Catholic Radio is celebrat- music and selections from Western Saints Peter and Paul Byzantine Catho- the world. Eing Eastern Christianity and all Christianity. We also broadcast daily lic Church in Somerset, NJ, by Father things Catholic! Listen on theprayers, Live365 church appservices, sermons, pod- Francis Rella. The ministry began as The easiest way to listen to Eastern casts, inspirational talk radio, and lec- weekly broadcasts of the Sunday Divine Catholic Radio is through the free Eastern Catholic Radio is a 24/7 in- tures. Lecture series produced by OLTV Liturgy and the production of multiple Live365 app. or on your computer or ternet radio station broadcast through and Eastern Christian Publications are videos for the Eparchy, including a full- smartphone at www.easterncatholic- Live365.com. Our programingat Eastern consists Catholic heard Radio daily as well as “Light of the East,” length documentary entitled “A Time broadcasting.com or Live365.com. of continuous Eastern Christian Church featuring Father Thomas Loya. for Living.” The media ministry con-

@ECatholicRadio

Livestream 24/7 at easterncatholicbroadcasting.com

JANUARY 2020 Eastern Catholic Life Page 13

Visiting New York City? Come Worship With Us! Saint Mary Byzantine Catholic Church Father Edward G. Cimbala, D.Min.—Pastor 246 East 15th Street, Manhattan, New York Carpatho-Rusyn Society’s New 212-677-0516 Branches The Carpatho-Rusyn Society has developed branches in Sunday Divine Liturgy Georgia (near Atlanta), Western NC (Asheville), Eastern NC (Charlotte), and mini- 10:00 AM branches in the cities of Gainesville, Lakeland, Leesburg, Boca Raton, and Nokomis in the state of Florida. Meetings are held two to three times a year to learn, share, 6:00 PM and perpetuate the Carpatho-Rusyn culture. For more information visit the website at c-rs.org or contact Bonnie at [email protected].

FatherSearching Jack Custer, S.S.L., S.T.D. the Scriptures Growing into our Gifts

hings move fast between Christ- left behind, in the baptismal water, a Simply put, we’ve got to grow into our stature and grace before God and men” mas and Theophany. On the Sun- spiritual garment for us to put on that baptismal robes through our life in the (Luke 2:52). There’s a certain urgency dayT after Christmas, Jesus was an infant we at our own baptism. Look at it this Church. The Beatitudes, pronounced to that challenge to begin to fit into our on the run from Herod (Matthew 2:13- way and you realize that our baptismal by Jesus early in His preaching, lay out baptismal robes, just as there is a real 23). On the Sunday before Theophany, robe starts out way too big for us! It basic attitudes that we can spend a life- urgency to Jesus’ first announcement: we fast forward some thirty years: John takes a lifetime of cooperation with time fulfilling: detachment from mate- “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven the Baptist is already preaching at the God’s grace to grow into what Baptism rial goods, meekness, mercy, purity of is at hand” (Matthew 4:17). Lent is Jordan and predicting the arrival of makes possible. heart, the pursuit of peace and justice, only a few weeks away and, by Great someone “greater” who will “baptize the “bright sadness” of repentance and and Holy Week, we will be asked not you with the Holy Spirit” (Mark 1:1- This is exactly what we hear in the Epistle a willingness to share in Christ’s Pas- only whether those robes fit, but also 8). By the Sunday after Theophany, for the Sunday after Theophany (Ephe- sion (Matthew 5:3-10). Saint Paul whether they are still white enough to Herod has imprisoned John, and Jesus sians 4:7-13). We are reminded that highlights nine qualities in which we serve as wedding garments. Recalling is in Capernaum where He begins to each of us has received gifts from Christ. can always continue to grow: “love, joy, two parables where Jesus compares the announce, “Repent, for the kingdom of All of us have received the gift of re- peace, patience, kindness, goodness, kingdom of heaven to a wedding (Mat- heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:12-17). demption through His passion and res- faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” thew 22:1-14; Matthew 25:1-12), one urrection. All of us are offered the gifts (Galatians 5:22-23). of the most beautiful hymns in our Tra- Of course, throughout the season of of grace that come from the sacraments. dition will have us say: “I see your brid- Theophany, we are invited to consider Each of us, in addition, has received In all this, I am reminded of so many al chamber all adorned, O my Savior; our own Baptism, by which we have unique gifts according to God’s plan for childhood Christmas gift exchanges. and I have no wedding garment that I been “clothed with Christ,” as we sing us—our talents, our experiences, our vo- Paper ripping everywhere, a living may enter. Make the robe of my soul on Theophany, quoting Saint Paul (Ga- cations, even our weaknesses. But these room full of kids struggling as moth- to shine, O Giver of Life, and save me.” latians 3:27). Each of us actually re- gifts come with a double expectation. ers and aunts get them to try on all the (Bridegroom Matins; Great Monday, ceived a white baptismal garment but, The first expectation is that we will, all new clothes. Of course, they were al- Tuesday and Wednesday) unless you were baptized as an adult, together, build up the Church, the Body ways bought too big, and so we were you probably outgrew your baptismal of Christ on earth, by sharing our gifts told, over and over again, “Don’t worry, garment before your next birthday. Or in service and by cultivating “unity of you’ll grow into it!” did you? faith and knowledge of the Son of God.” The second expectation, which in tightly That’s the challenge presented to us Saint Ephrem the Syrian understands joined to the first, is that each of us will with every new civil year as we make Saint Paul’s words this way: when grow into “a perfect man, to the measure New Year’s resolutions: to keep grow- Christ was baptized in the Jordan, He of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” ing as the child Jesus did “in wisdom, in Page 14 Eastern Catholic Life JANUARY 2020

The Byzantine Liturgy By Archpriest David Petras, SEOD Always and Everywhere

fter the solemn commemoration of God’s won- The response of the faithful is a proclamation of what Saint John Chrysostom preaches about how the gifts drous deeds for our salvation, the priest intro- we are doing in the Liturgy. We have praised God are transformed by the words of Christ, “This is My Aduces the peoples’ hymn, “We praise You, we bless for His wondrous deeds, we bless Him for His salva- body,” “This is My blood,” which echo throughout his- You, we thank You, O Lord, and we pray to You, our tion, and we thank Him “for this liturgy which [He] tory. The priest mouths these words, but the power God,” by intoning “Offering You Your own, from Your is pleased to accept from our hands,” which not only comes from the Holy Spirit. The priest does not say, own. Always and everywhere.” We may hear this as transforms bread and wine into the Body and Blood “This is the Body of Christ,” but “This is My body,” obvi- one thought, but in reality, it is two separate phrases. of Christ, but also transforms and saves and makes ously not meaning his own body, but the body of Jesus, The phrase 2019“Your own ONLINE from Your own,” isEDUCATIONAL the offering God-like those who OFFERINGS partake of these gifts. This, of though one can discern another level of meaning here, of Christ as God’s only Son, of ourselves as in union course, does not happen by any human power, but that the Church, which now says these words through with Christ as His Body, the church, and as the gifts only through God’s Holy Spirit, for which we are now the priest, is, in fact, the body of Christ. (Ephesians All courses are offered as live webinars, free of charge. Register at EasternCatholic.org/Events. of bread and wine, given to us by God, transformed about to ask and beg for. 1:22-23) What is clear, though, from all the fathers and by us from wheat and grapes, but now transformed by theologians is that the priest does not transform the God into the Body and BloodTHE of our Lord.FACE The OFwords, GOD After the people sing, “...and we pray to you,” the gifts by his own human power. This is done only in the “Always and everywhere,” areAn separate, Introduction and they toare Byzantinepriest begins Faith to “pray,” & Spirituality that is, he calls upon the Father power of the Holy Spirit. The priest is able to do noth- a part of what follows, thatRev. is, thatDeacon we Daniel praise, Dozier bless, to send the Holy Spirit upon the gifts. In Greek, “in- ing without the power of the Holy Spirit (As the people thank, and pray at all times andWednesdays, places. September 11 and vocation,”18 @ 8:00 -is 9:30 the p.m.“epiclesis,” ET literally, a “calling upon.” often address the priest, “And with your spirit”). The “Christianity is not an abstract doctrineIt is the divorced closing from petition reality ofand the from anaphora. history. Nor We ask the words of institution are a manifestation of the power This translation was very difficultis it some momentary,because it flickeringseems to Fatherlight which to send shines the for Holya brief Spirit while uponand then us is and gone. upon the and gift and revelation of the love of Christ. The epicle- be literally to mean “on behalfChristianity of all andis a continual for all.” celebration A gifts of lifewe andoffer. love Itbetween is, therefore, God and manan affirmationlived out in of the sis is a sign that we act by virtue of the gift of the Spirit theologian at the Oriental Institute,concrete Fatherhistory.”- Louis Archbishop Ligi- JosephHoly RayaTrinity. When we pray the Anaphora, we ad- given through the sacramental mystery of orders. Saint er, explained why. It is a matter of the use of the Greek dress the Father, who sent His Son into the world and John Chrysostom is quite clear about this point: “The prepositions “on behalf of, MAKING(“kata”) and for DISCIPLES (“dia”). revealed the eucharist, and who sends the Holy Spirit priest does nothing, nor is the right accomplishment of In Greek these usually are followedThe Art by of nouns Bringing in the Othersupon the to gifts, Christ for it is certainly not by human power the offered gifts due to human nature; but the grace of dative case. However, here Rev.they Alexander are in the Wroblicky accusative that the transformation of the gifts is accomplished. the Spirit being present, and coming down on all – (on case. English does not haveWednesdays, such cases. October Because 9, 16 of and 23 @ 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. ET every altar) makes complete that mystical sacrifice; for the case, therefore, the phraseMany is faithful about Catholics the circum are inspired- The by theepiclesis Church’s is callan toessential a new evangelization, part of the yetDivine don’t Lit- even though a man be present, it is God who works know where to begin, because evangelization is more of an art than a science. In this stances in which we “pray,” and3-part not series, for whom Fr. Alex we will pray. guide usurgy. to create Basil room the inGreat our communities refers to this for inpeople his writingsto grow on through him.” (Homily 50 on Pentecost) Perhaps these words are aninto expression a mature and of life-givingwhat the faith. the Holy Spirit: “Have any saints left for us in writing Prophet Malachi foretold, “From the rising of the sun the words to be used in the invocation over the Eu- to its setting, My name is greatUNLOCKING among the nations; inTHE- charistic MYSTERY bread and the cup of blessing? As everyone New Byzantine Catholic cense offerings are made to AnMy nameIntroduction everywhere, toand Eastern knows, weChristian are not content Bible in Study the liturgy simply to re- Joshua Mangels Community Forming in a pure offering.” (Malachi 1:11) Our sacrifice is the cite the words recorded by Saint. Paul or the Gospels, Greater Charlotte, NC, perfection of the Old TestamentWednesdays, offerings, November and they6 and 13but @ we8:00 add - 9:00 other p.m. words ET both before and after, words too are offered always, “from“We the haverising learned of the the sun plan to itsof ourof salvation great importance from no one forelse thisother mystery.” than from (Onthose the Holy Area through whom the gospel has come down to us. For they did at one time proclaim the setting,” and everywhere, “incensegospel in offeringspublic. And, are at a madelater period,Spirit by27.66) the will of God, they handed the gospel down to Byzantine Catholic community is forming at to My name everywhere.” us in the Scriptures-to be the ‘ground and pillar of our faith.’” - St. Irenaeus the Godbearer ASaint Philip Neri Church, 292 Munn Rd., Fort Mill, SC. Please join us as we grow our community THE GIFT OF GOD and celebrate the Byzantine Divine Liturgy. Father Preparing for the Feast of the Nativity Steven Galuschik of All Saints Byzantine Catholic Rev. David AndersonGOD WITH US ONLINE is an outreach project of the Eparchial Di- Church in North Fort Myers, FL, along with bi-ritual Wednesday, Decemberrectors of 16 Religious @ 8:00 - 9:00 Education p.m. ET (ECED) and the Eastern Catholic As- Deacon Ron Volek are now offering weekly Divine As the Greatsociates Feast of (ECA) the Nativity and is dedicatedof the Lord to draws the catechetical closer, using renewal the prayers of Eastern of Liturgy in the area. This community will serve the the Church inCatholics this holy in season the United as our Statesguide, inwe accord will ponder with theGod’s Church’s gift of Himselfcall for a northern part of South Carolina as well as Charlotte, to us, and considernew evangelization. how we can respond by making a gift of ourselves to Him. NC. Please share this information with your friends and family – especially those who have moved “down GOD WITH US ONLINE is an outreach project of the EparchialBAPTIZED Directors of Religious INTO Education CHRIST South.” We will be celebrating the Byzantine Divine (ECED) and the Eastern Catholic Associates (ECA) and is dedicatedThe Mystery to the catechetical of Initiation renewal of& Identity of the People of God Liturgy on Saturdays at 4:00 PM. If you would like to Eastern Catholics in the United States in accord with the Church’sRev. Sebastian call for Carnazzo, a new evangelization. PhD participate in any way, or have questions please contact Wednesdays Jan 8, 15 and 22 @ 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. ET Ron Somich at 440.477.6389 or ron.somich@gmail. The celebration of baptism, chrismation and Eucharist together is not simply a practicality. com. Please check the website for news, upcoming IN PARTNERSHIP WITHThese mysteries are closely connected and must be understood in light of each other. Using gatherings, and service times at Scripture, Fr. Sebastian will show us how these mysteries are not just a symbol, but truly make https://carolinabyzantine.com/ Holy Protection of Mary Byzantine Catholicus theEparchy People of of Phoenix God. Armenian Catholic Eparchy of Our Lady of Nareg in the USA & Canada Chaldean Catholic2019 Eparchy ofONLINE St Peter the Apostle EDUCATIONAL OFFERINGS January: Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Stamford All courses are offered as live webinars, free of charge. Register at EasternCatholic.org/Events. 4, 11, 18, 25 St Nicholas of Chicago for Ukrainians St Thomas Syro Malabar Diocese of Chicago EASTERN CATHOLICTHE LIFE FACEPublished OF monthlyGOD by the POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Mrs. Diane Rabiej, Copy Editor Melkite Eparchy of Newton Eastern Catholic Press Association Eastern Catholic Life Mrs. Maureen French, Circulation Editor (USPS 165-600) (ISSN 0894-9786)An Introduction to Byzantine Faith & Spirituality Chaldean Eparchy of St Thomas the Apostle 445 Lackawanna Avenue ([email protected]) Official Publication of the Rev. Deacon Daniel445 Dozier Lackawanna Avenue Woodland Park, NJ 07424 Woodland Park, NJ 07424 E-Mail us at: MaroniteByzantine Eparchy Catholic of Our Eparchy LadyWednesdays, of PassaicLebanon September 11 and 18 @ 8:00 - 9:30 p.m. ET Phone: 973-890-7777 Fax: 973-890- Most Reverend Bishop Kurt Burnette [email protected] ByzantineSubscription Catholic Rate: Eparchy $15.00 per “Christianityof Passaicyear. is not7175 an abstract doctrine divorced from reality andPresident from history. and PublisherNor is it some momentary, flickering light which shines for a brief while and then is gone. Eparchial Website: Eparchy of Our LadyNews of Deliveranceand Photo Services: Syriac Catholic Christianity Diocese is a continualinPostage the USA celebration paid at Little of life Falls, and loveNJ, and between ad- GodFather and manJames lived Badeaux, out in Editor www.EparchyofPassaic.com Member of the Catholic Pressconcrete Associa history.”-- ditional Archbishop office Joseph at Bellmawr,Raya NJ. Father Ronald Hatton, Associate Editor tionEparchy of America. of St Maron in Brooklyn Father Lewis Rabayda, Layout Editor Syro-Malankara Catholic EparchyMAKING in the USA DISCIPLES Eparchy of Parma The Art of BringingThe ByzantineOthers to Catholic Christ Eparchy of Passaic subscribes to the Eparchy of St George in Canton forRev. the AlexanderRomanians WroblickyCharter for the Protection of Children and Young People Wednesdays, October 9, 16 and 23 @ 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. ET Ukrainian Catholic Eparchyadopted of by St the Josaphat-Parma United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The Eparchy, within all its parishes, institutions and programs, is committed to assuring a safe environment in ministry for itsMany children faithful and young Catholics people that are conforms inspired to by Charter the Church’s requirements. call Forto afurther new informationevangelization, regarding yet the don’t Eparchial Safe Environment Program please contact: Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy knowof Pittsburgh where to begin, because evangelization is more of an art than a science. In this 3-part series, Fr. Alex willFather guide David us to J. Baratelli,create room Ed.S., M.Div.in our • communities Safe Environment for Program people Coordinator to grow • 973.890.7777 Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy ofinto Philadelphia a mature and life-giving faith.Dr. Maureen Daddona, Ph.D. • Victim’s Assistance Coordinator • 516.623.6456 UNLOCKING THE MYSTERY An Introduction to Eastern Christian Bible Study Joshua Mangels Wednesdays, November 6 and 13 @ 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. ET FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK!“We have learned the plan of our salvation from no one else other than from those through whom the gospel has come down to us. For they did at one time proclaim the gospel in public. And, at a later period, by the will of God, they handed the gospel down to GodWithUsECus in the Scriptures-to be the ‘ground and pillar of our faith.’” - St. Irenaeus the Godbearer

THE GIFT OF GOD Preparing for the Feast of the Nativity Rev. David Anderson Wednesday, December 16 @ 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. ET As the Great Feast of the Nativity of the Lord draws closer, using the prayers of the Church in this holy season as our guide, we will ponder God’s gift of Himself to us, and consider how we can respond by making a gift of ourselves to Him.

BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST The Mystery of Initiation & Identity of the People of God Rev. Sebastian Carnazzo, PhD Wednesdays Jan 8, 15 and 22 @ 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. ET The celebration of baptism, chrismation and Eucharist together is not simply a practicality. These mysteries are closely connected and must be understood in light of each other. Using Scripture, Fr. Sebastian will show us how these mysteries are not just a symbol, but truly make us the People of God. JANUARY 2020 Eastern Catholic Life Page 15

hristmas is past, and the world Chas moved on to other things, but not so the Church. We have a definite Seasonal ReflectionsFather Ronald Hatton timeline that continues, for the most part, for 40 days after the Feast of the Nativity, and this month contains very Our Celebration is Not Over! important feasts. 14). On the eighth day, the child was January 1 is also the feast day of Saint In the Western tradition, this day is de- No sooner than we celebrate the Na- also formally named: “And at the end of Basil the Great (one of the Three Holy voted to the Visit of the Magi, and thus tivity of our Lord, while the rest of the eight days, when He was circumcised, Hierarchs celebrated on January 30), His manifestation to the Gentiles. In world (those who follow the Gregorian He was called Jesus, the name given by Archbishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia the East, it is devoted to Jesus’ manifes- Calendar) celebrates the coming of the the angel before he was conceived in (in present-day Turkey), and is tradi- tation as the Son of God at His Baptism new year, the Church celebrates the the womb” (Luke 2:21). We see this tionally the author of our Divine Lit- in the Jordan by John the Baptist and, feast of the Circumcision of our Lord, also with the birth of John the Baptist: urgy of Saint Basil the Great, which we further, the manifestation of the Holy eight days after His birth. Circumci- “And on the eighth day they came to celebrate on this day as well as Sundays Trinity (cf. Matthew 3: 13-17, Mark 1: sion is an important ritual in Judaism, circumcise the child; and they would of the Great Fast and other major holy 9-11, and Luke 3:21, 22). Thus, it is an as it makes the male child a child of the have named him Zechariah after his days. important day for us both as an affirma- Covenant between God and Abraham: father, but his mother said, ‘Not so; he tion of the dogma of the Trinity and as “And God said to Abraham, ‘As for you, shall be called John.’ And they said to In His love for the human race, the Savior the day when we traditionally celebrate you shall keep My covenant, you and her, ‘None of your kindred is called by condescended and willed to be wrapped in the Great Sanctification of Water, in your descendants after you throughout this name.’ And they made signs to his swaddling clothes. Eight days old accord- some parishes not only with the Bless- their generations. This is My covenant, father, inquiring what he would have ing to His mother and eternal according ing of Water in the parish on the eve of which you shall keep, between Me and him called. And he asked for a writing to His Father, He did not look down upon the Feast, but also with the blessing of a you and your descendants after you: tablet, and wrote, ‘His name is John’” the circumcision of the flesh. Therefore, O nearby body of water, usually a river, on Every male among you shall be circum- (Luke 1:59-63). Both these names believers, let us cry out to Him: You are the day of the Feast. cised. You shall be circumcised in the have great significance for us, as “John” our God; have mercy on us! (Vespers for flesh of your foreskins, and it shall be a (Gr. Ioannes, from the Heb. Yochanan) the Feast). The True Light has appeared to bestow sign of the covenant between me and means “YHWH is Gracious,” and “Je- enlightenment upon all. The all-pure you. He that is eight days old among sus” (Greek Iesous, Aramaic, Yeshu’a, The great feast, of course, is the Christ is baptized with us; He sanctifies you shall be circumcised; every male from the Heb. Yehoshu’a; Anglicized as, Theophany of our Lord on January 6. the water and it becomes a cleansing for throughout your generations, whether “Joshua”) means “YHWH is Salvation.” The origin of the Feast goes back to our souls. All that which appears outward born in your house, or bought with your So, just as Joshua in the books of Exo- Apostolic times, and it is mentioned and visible is earthly, and that which is money from any foreigner who is not of dus and Joshua is identified with the in The Apostolic Constitutions (Book understood by the mind is greater than the your offspring…. So shall My covenant successor to Moses who brought the Is- V:13). From the second century, we heavens. Salvation is bestowed through be in your flesh an everlasting covenant. raelites into the Promised Land, show- have the testimony of Saint Clement washing, and the Spirit is received through Any uncircumcised male who is not ing the fulfillment of God’s promise of Alexandria concerning the celebra- water. By descending into the water, we circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin and His grace to His people, so, too, our tion of the Baptism of the Lord, and the ascend to God. How wonderful are Your shall be cut off from his people; he has Joshua, Jesus, is the fulfillment of God’s night vigil before this Feast. The name works, O Lord; glory to You! (Matins for broken My covenant’” (Genesis 17:9– promise to be our Salvation. itself refers to a manifestation of God. the Feast).

FatherSchool G. Scott Boghossian of Prayer Pray for Divine Guidance

od forbids us to consult fortune tells us: “I will instruct you and teach Young Ruler proclaimed during the Di- ten arise from holy and Spirit-inspired tellers, psychics, mediums, and you in the way you should go; I will vine Liturgy. desires to serve and to give. When GOuija boards. TheCatechism of the counsel you with my eye upon you” someone says, “God is calling me to be Catholic Church says, “All forms of (Ps. 32:8). And Saint Paul says that God’s Word is a source of moral guid- a priest or a monk or a nun, but I have divination are to be rejected: recourse “all who are led by the Spirit of God are ance. He tells us how to behave in the no desire to do so,” it’s entirely possible to Satan or demons, conjuring up the sons of God” (Rm. 8:14). Ten Commandments, the Sermon on that they are gravely mistaken. dead or other practices falsely sup- the Mount, and the moral guidance of posed to “unveil” the future. Consult- God guides through visions, dreams, the Church. Certainly, the Holy Spirit God guides us through providential ing horoscopes, astrology, palm read- revelations, inner locutions, and angelic will never contradict Himself by guid- circumstances. The patriarch Joseph ing, interpretation of omens and lots, visitations. In the lives of the saints, we ing us to break the laws of God. His was betrayed by his own brothers and the phenomena of clairvoyance, and often see these extraordinary forms of laws and commandments are divine sold into slavery, yet all according to the recourse to mediums all conceal a de- guidance. But these methods of receiv- guidance for everyone. plan of God, so that God’s chosen peo- sire for power over time, history, and, in ing divine guidance are not for us. They ple would be preserved (Gen. 50:20). the last analysis, other human beings, as are risky because the devil can counter- God also guides us by lawful authority, Many difficult circumstances in our well as a wish to conciliate hidden pow- feit them, and we might be easily de- both spiritual and secular. Mary and own lives are also God’s way of guiding ers. They contradict the honor, respect, ceived. One saint asked Jesus to stop Joseph went to Bethlehem to obey the us into His holy will. and loving fear that we owe to God appearing to her because she couldn’t civil authority of a pagan emperor and alone” (CCC 2116). tell the difference between Him and a thereby fulfilled the prophecies of the Do you want to experience divine guid- satanic counterfeit. “And no wonder, Old Testament concerning the Mes- ance? No need to consult psychics and King Saul “broke faith with the Lord for even Satan disguises himself as an siah’s birth (Lk. 2). The Incarnate God mediums. It’s a sin. Instead, make up in that he did not keep the command angel of light” (2 Cor. 11:14). obeyed Joseph and Mary in Nazareth. your mind to put God first and be re- of the Lord, and also consulted a medi- (Lk. 2:51). We will stay on the straight solved to do His will. Pray for divine um, seeking guidance. He did not seek As for us, “we walk by faith and not and narrow path if we consult and obey guidance and be confident that God guidance from the Lord. Therefore, the by sight” (2 Cor. 5:7). God guides us a good spiritual director or confessor. will make His will known to you. With Lord put him to death and turned the by His Word, in Sacred Scripture and David, pray, “Teach me to do your kingdom over to David the son of Jesse” Tradition. In our spiritual reading, or God guides us by godly desires. “De- will, for you are my God. Let your (1 Chr. 10:13). Let’s learn from Saul’s in hearing the Scriptures proclaimed light yourself in the Lord, and He will good Spirit lead me on level ground” sin and seek guidance from the Lord! in the Divine Liturgy, God speaks to give you the desires of your heart” (Ps. (Ps.143:10). our hearts and guides us to do His will. 37:4). Put God first and seek to please God promises to guide us. Jesus sends Saint Anthony of Egypt left the world Him. He will then inspire you to desire the Holy Spirit to “guide us into all and became the Father of Monasticism that which He wills for you. Vocations truth” (Jn. 16:13). In the Psalms, He when he heard the Gospel of the Rich to the priesthood and monastic life of- Page 16 Eastern Catholic Life JANUARY 2020

one whom you see subjected to unjust insult. Hold it out to God for your sins. The hand is stretched forth; then it is healed. (Saint. Ambrose, Stretch Out Seminarian Reflections Your Hand for Others) Deacon Paul Varchola West Are our hands worthy of being kissed It is Christ Who Lives in Me as the hands of Christ? Do we live up to this standard? More so, would someone want to kiss our hand, know- t is now January. As we bask in the thing to the effect of “Yeah...I’m really While yes, January brings with it cold ing very well that they are reaching out ever-fading glow of the Christmas not into that whole hand kissing thing. weather, winter illnesses and the ever not to kiss our hand, but the hand of season,I approaching the heart of win- Think of all the gems.” Before I could dreaded “post-Christmas blues.” It Christ? Do we reach out our hands, as ter, we are perhaps a little let down that even finish my heavy sigh at the mere does, however, also bring with it an ab- so eloquently stated by Saint. Ambrose, once again Christmas has come and thought of it, my friend responded solutely wonderful gift: the Feast of the in a fitting and Christ-like manner to gone. Although the days are little by with, “Now, Paul…” Without skipping Theophany–the baptism of Christ and those in need? These questions are not little getting longer, we might feel a bit a beat, he proceeded to tell me the fol- the revealing of the Trinity. Christ’s meant to bring us down, but rather, lift of longing for the joy of Christmas as lowing story as if he himself were one of baptism, in all its glory, should remind us up. we know that the coldest days of winter the wise, aged monks of whom he was us of our own baptism and the fact that, are still ahead. Even though Christmas about to speak. by virtue of our baptism, we live a life As we celebrate the Feast of the is fresh in our memories, something in Christ Jesus. This life is so intimate Theophany, let us reflect upon the bap- looms, or rather, is among us. Some- Elder Paisios, a relatively well-known in fact, Saint Paul famously wrote to the tism of Christ in relation to our own thing that makes us shudder, run for monk from Mount Athos, was in the Galatians, “it is no longer I who live, baptism. Think of the gifts given to us, the house, or maybe the hand sanitizer: presence of a newly-ordained priest but it is Christ who lives in me” in an not necessarily on Christmas morning, cold and flu season! After all these years and he bowed for a blessing and went attempt to describe such an intimacy but each and every day by Christ Him- writing for the ECL I feel comfortable to kiss the priest’s hand, as is the cus- (Gal 2:20). The hand that Elder Paisios self. Christ, through the Incarnation enough to make the following confes- tom. The young priest pulled his hands was attempting to kiss was not at all the and the Cross gave the ultimate gift, His sion. I have a little “thing” with germs. away as to gesture that the monk was hand of that young priest, but rather, he very life. Through our baptism, we give Perhaps some of you share my aversion not to kiss his hand. To this, Elder was desiring to kiss the hand of Christ the very same to Him, the Creator and to the little microbes that seem to in- Paisios exclaimed, “Young man, if you Himself. This sentiment should give God of all. In this season of gift giving, vade our homes and bodies this time of do not want your hand to be kissed, you each and every one of us pause. renewal and New Year’s Resolutions, year without necessarily being invited. should not have become a priest, for it let us resolve to use the gift that Christ Nonetheless gross, it was an impromp- is not your hand that I am wanting to Think of all the great works one is capa- gave us–Himself. As we begin this tu conversation about germy hands that kiss.” ble of executing with their hands. Now, new calendar year, let the celebration lead me to a rather unexpected spiritual think of the bad. In his Exposition on the of Christ’s baptism inspire us to live a reflection. I was left speechless. More accurately, Gospel of Luke, Saint Ambrose of Milan life truly fitting to be called Christian. I was embarrassed. I should have given says the following on this topic: Let us reach out to those in need with A few months ago, a friend came over that one some more thought! As I have the hand of Christ, that we might share the house one morning to have coffee been reflecting on this conversation for You who think you have a healthy hand the gift of our life with others through with Alissa and me. I have no idea how some time now, I have come to the fol- beware lest it is withered by greed or by nothing more than Christian charity in this happened, but we got on the topic lowing realization: Elder Paisios was sacrilege. Hold it out often. Hold it out the very true sense of the term! of kissing a priest’s hand when he gives not simply speaking of priests, he was to the poor person who begs you. Hold someone a blessing. Immediately, I speaking of, and to, every single bap- it out to help your neighbor, to give pro- started shaking my head and said some- tized Christian. tection to a widow, to snatch from harm When traveling to the Mid-Atlantic, please visit our churches Maryland— Patronage at Hagerstown Epiphany Mission Ascension of our Lord Phone 919-239-4877 Patronage of the Mother of meeting at: 114 Palace Lane Web www.sscyrilmethodius.org 9301 Warfield Road God Saint Ann Catholic Church Williamsburg, VA 23185 Sunday Divine Liturgy 10:00 am Gaithersburg, MD 1525 Oak Hill Avenue Phone 757-585-2878 (rectory) 1265 Linden Avenue Web www.eolmission.org Hagerstown, MD 21742 Web www.ascensionva.org District of Columbia— Baltimore, MD 21227 Sunday Divine Liturgy at 10:00 am Saturday Vigil Liturgy 6:45 pm 2 per Sunday Divine Liturgy 11:00 am Byzantine Ruthenian Chapel Phone 410-247-4936 month Virginia— Basilica of the National Shrine Web www.patronagechurch.org Our Lady of Perpetual Help Call Baltimore for schedule Epiphany of our Lord 400 Michigan Avenue, NE Sunday Divine Liturgy 9:15 am 216 Parliament Drive 3410 Woodburn Road Washington, DC 20017 Saint Gregory of Nyssa Virginia Beach, VA 23462 Patronage at Abingdon Annandale, VA 22003 Phone 202-526-8300 Phone 757-456-0809 meeting at: 12420 Old Gunpowder Road Spur Phone: 703-573-3986 Web www.nationalshrine.org Web www.olphvb.org Stone Chapel at Saint Francis Beltsville, MD 20705 Web www.eolbcc.org No regularly scheduled Sunday Sunday Divine Liturgy 8:00 am de Sales Church Phone 301-953-9323 Sunday Divine Liturgies 8:00 am & Liturgy. 1450 Abingdon Road Web www.stgregoryofnyssa.net 10:30 am To reserve a date and time, priests North Carolina— Abingdon, MD 21009 Sunday Divine Liturgies Saints Cyril and Methodius must call the Liturgy Office and submit Sunday Divine Liturgy 5:30 pm Church Slavonic 8:00 am a current letter from their eparchy’s 2510 Piney Plains Road Sunday Matins 9:30 am Safe Environment Office. Cary, NC 27518 English Liturgy 10:30 am

Upcoming Eparchial and Parish Events Eastern Catholic Life January, 2020 February, 2020 Circulation Department 1 Circumcision of Our Lord 2 The Encounter of Our Lord 445 Lackawanna Avenue Solemn Holy Day • Chancery closed Woodland Park, NJ 07424 with Simeon 6 Holy Theophany of Our Lord Solemn Holy Day Holy Day of Obligation • Chancery closed 8 First All Souls’ Saturday Next Issue: 25 Vigil for Life—see ad on page 6 February, 2020 Washington, DC 9 Sunday of the Prodigal Son 26 March for Life—see ad on page 6 Washington, DC Copy Deadline: 16 Sunday of Meatfare 30 Three Holy Hierarchs January 24 Simple Holy Day 23 Sunday of Cheesefare The current issue of the ECL was printed at Evergreen Printing, Bellmawr, NJ, and 24 Clean Monday was distributed from the First Day of the Great Fast U.S. Post Office via second class mailing in Bellmawr, NJ.