Eastern Catholic Life

“In the beginning was the Word ... “

VOL. XLVIII, NO. 12 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2012

Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

To the Clergy, Religious, and Faithful of the Eparchy of Passaic, ilies. During 2013 and the Year of Faith, may we make a special ow do we receive the holy Child of Bethlehem? How effort to encourage those who are no longer attending regularly to do we make room in our busy lives for our Lord Em- come home to their parish family. Hmanuel? It begins with the openness to wonder and As you recall, our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, has an- the willingness to receive Christ into our lives. But, it cannot be- nounced a Year of Faith, extending from October 11, 2012 to No- gin until we first stop and make time for Christ! The season of vember 24, 2013. The Holy Father has said that he hopes this Christmas gives us the opportunity to stop all the activities and occasion would provide “renewed energy to the mission of the distractions that block the wonder of the Nativity of Our Lord; the whole Church to lead men and women out of the desert they often wonder that God became fully hu- are in and toward the place of life - man that we might be embraced by friendship with Christ who gives us the fullness of God’s love. fullness of life.” The Pope also said During the Christmas season, that he hopes the Year of Faith will have you ever taken time to sit by the be a “moment of grace and commit- fire, or gaze at the stars or stare into ment to an ever fuller conversion to the lights of the Christmas tree and God, to reinforce our faith in Him just let yourself be lost in wonder, and to proclaim Him with joy to the love and praise for the Incarnation? people of our time.” Please use this When is the last time you stopped to opportunity of the Year of Faith to ponder the incredible notion that the commit yourselves and one another Creator of the stars at night would and your whole life to Christ our descend to us in the form of a poor God. newborn child? Rather than try to At this holy time of Christmas, unwrap and solve the mystery of when we recall the fact that God so God’s appearing in such unfathom- loved the world that He sent His Son able circumstances, how might we Jesus into the world for us, I want to just recapture the childhood delight thank you for all the joy you bring that comes from knowing something to me as I serve as the Administra- is true even when we don’t know tor of the Eparchy. May the wonder how it is possible! that God came down from heaven to If we start with taking time for a be laid in a manger turn into the wonder, we will open the door of greater joy that God still, to this day, our lives to joy. While it is important comes to us and journeys with us as to find and enjoy quiet moments of our Lord Emmanuel. humble awe and wonder, joy also May God’s peace and blessings comes at surprising times and in un- be with you and yours for a joyful expected ways. Joy doesn’t come by Christmas season. Please know that will or command, rather, joy comes you all are always in my prayers and as a gift. It is a sign that God is among us, and that God is waiting I humbly ask you to remember me in yours. for us to see and follow and share His presence with others. So while we look back to the Christmas story to remind us how Jesus came into the world, may we also ask anew how to welcome Jesus Sincerely Yours in the Service of Christ and His People, into our crowded lives. This year, we might consider sharing our joy and inviting someone who doesn’t have a church home to come along with Very Reverend Edward G. Cimbala, D. Min. us for the Divine Liturgy on Christmas or during the Christmas Administrator of the Eparchy of Passaic season. This is a magnificent way to introduce, or to reintroduce, someone to our Byzantine Catholic Church and to our parish fam-

Encounter East 2012 Highlights Story and Photos on pages 7-9 Page 2 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, December 2, 2012

From the Office of the Eparchial Administrator

Hurricane Relief Fund

My prayers, and the collective prayers of the Eparchy If you would like to contribute to this fund, please make of Passaic, continue to be with those parishes and parish- your checks payable to the “Eparchy of Passaic” and send ioners still suffering the consequences of Hurricane Sandy. your collection to: As you know, I have recently requested that the par- Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic ishes of the Eparchy of Passaic take up a collection to be Hurricane Relief used to create a special fund to assist parishes and parish- 445 Lackawanna Avenue ioners directly with costs associated with the storm dam- Woodland Park, NJ 07424 age that is not covered by insurance. Attn: Linda Donations for this fund are still being accepted as the damage is extensive and the need is great. If there is anything that I can do for you, please let me Assistance provided will depend on the amount of the know. Let’s keep each other in prayer. collection and the needs of those requesting funds. Re- quests will be evaluated and the fund administered by Em- ployee Benefits Services. To obtain additional information regarding this, parishes are asked to contact the Eparchial Chancery and parishioners are asked to contact their local Very Reverend Edward G. Cimbala, D.Min. parishes. Eparchial Administrator

In Prayerful Remembrance +Bishop Andrew Pataki Asleep in the Lord - December 8, 2011

O Lord, You have declared this Your servant, Bishop Andrew, to be a steward of episcopal grace, and You have chosen him to be an imitator of You, the true Shepherd, Who gave His life for His sheep. May he now stand without reproach before Your judgement and receive the great re- ward which You have prepared for those who contend valiantly for the preaching of Your Holy Gospel.

(from the Byzantine Liturgy) Sunday, December 2, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 3

+Father Joseph Pohorlak Reposes in the Lord Native of Wilkes-Barre, PA

Saint Nicholas High School, both Sox Fan. Devoted to the people he of Wilkes-Barre, PA and received served, +Father Joseph will be sadly his Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1958 missed by all who knew and loved from Duquesne University. He went him. on to study at the Metropolitan Byz- He was the brother-in-law of antine Seminary, Pittsburgh, PA and Elizabeth “Betty” Pohorlak of Wil- was ordained to the Priesthood of kes-Barre, PA; uncle of Georgeann Jesus Christ on the Feast of Saint “Gigi” (Rev. Deacon Edward) Frey Nicholas, December 6, 1961. of Trucksville, PA, Paula Medina +Father Joseph served the peo- and Tina Taylor both of California ple of the Byzantine Catholic Ep- and Michael Pavlosky of Nevada; archy of Parma at Saint Nicholas great uncle of Nicholas Frey of Byzantine Catholic Church, Detroit, Trucksville, PA and Matthew Frey WHITING, IN – +Father Jo- MI; Saint Michael Byzantine Catho- of Warwick, NY. He was also pre- seph Pohorlak, 76, a retired priest of lic Church, Newton Falls, OH; Saint ceded in death by three brothers, the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of John Byzantine Catholic Church, Michael, Rev. Father John G. and Parma and a native of Wilkes-Barre, Mingo Junction, OH; Saint Mary George Pohorlak; five sisters, Julie +Father Joseph Pohorlak PA, fell asleep in the Lord on Octo- Magdalene Byzantine Catholic Kozemko, Helen Letner, Margaret ber 24, 2012 at the Albertine Home Church, Fairview Park, OH; St. John Pavlosky, Anna Pohorlak and The- 29 by Bishop John Kudrick with area of Hammond, IN. Prior to his retire- Byzantine Catholic Church, Minne- resa Pohorlak and two sets of twin clergy concelebrating. Also concel- ment he served as pastor of Saint apolis, MN; and Saint Michael Byz- siblings, Mary and Stephen, Peter ebrating was Deacon Edward Frey Mary of the Assumption Byzantine antine Catholic Church, Akron, OH. and Paul at infancy and a nephew, of the Eparchy of Passaic. Interment Catholic Church, Whiting, IN. From September, 1980, to his recent Joseph J. Letner, Jr. followed at Saint Mary Cemetery, retirement, he served as Pastor of A native of Wilkes-Barre, PA Visitations were held in Saint Hammond, IN. and a Parish Vocation of Saint Saint Mary of the Assumption Byz- Mary Church, Whiting, IN on Sat- In blessed repose, grant, O Lord, Mary Byzantine Catholic Church in antine Catholic Church, Whiting, urday, October 27, 2012, with the eternal rest to the soul of your de- Wilkes-Barre, +Father Joseph was IN. In addition to his pastoral min- celebration of the Office of Christian parted priest-servant, +Joseph and born on June 25, 1936 to the late istry, +Father Joseph was also mem- Burial for a Priest on Saturday af- remember him forever! Vičnaja jemu Michael and Helen (Litchey) Pohor- ber of the Whiting Knights of Co- ternoon at 2PM, and on Sunday af- pamjat! lumbus, Pope John XXIII Council lak in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. ternoon at 6PM. The Divine Liturgy #1696, and an avid Chicago White He attended St. Mary’s School and was celebrated on Monday, October

2012 Eparchial Stewardship Appeal

If you have not received a PLEDGE CARD, you may use the one above, and return to your parish or to 445 Lackawanna Ave., Woodland Park, NJ 07424. Page 4 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, December 2, 2012

People you know...... Around the Eparchy

Superior General in Rome In Wilkes-Barre Township... Visits Wilkes-Barre WILKES-BARRE, PA – ter to the faithful of the Wyoming ...Birthday Centennial Sister Mariam Claire, OSBM the Valley, especially to the sick and world-wide Superior General in the shut-ins, and who reside at Rome of the Order of Sisters of Saint Mary’s Convent in Wilkes- WILKES-BARRE TWP, PA – Saint Basil the Great recently made Barre, commented that the visit Recently, the parish family of Saint a pastoral visitation to the Sisters of Sister Miriam Claire was very John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic of Saint Basil at Saint Mary’s Con- “spiritual and uplifting.” Sister Church in Wilkes-Barre township vent in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Miriam Claire, they said, “loved it (Georgetown) gathered at the Rama- here” and was able to see the valu- da Inn in Wilkes-Barre to celebrated Sister Miriam Claire explained able ministry of the Sisters during the 100th birthday of a dear friend that at least once, during her six- her 3-day visitation. of the parish. Although not a mem- year term as Superior General, she ber of the parish, Howard Ransom, tries to visit each of the provinces After leaving Wilkes-Barre, is a cherished friend of the parish and houses/convents under her Sister Miriam Claire traveled to who has faithfully participated in the spiritual care. This is a daunting Mount Saint Macrina in Union- Christmas and Easter Baking Proj- task as her responsibility as Supe- town, PA and will then visit the Fox ects for the past 15 years. His labor rior General spans five continents Chase Province of Basilian Sisters of love is to place the labels on the Father Mykhaylo Prodanets and and more than a dozen provinces! before returning to Rome. roll bags each of the three baking Cantor George Daru present Howard Ransom with an icon Sister Theodosia, OSBM and Saint Mary Parish is served by days. He is truly an inspiration to all Sister Regina, OSBM, who minis- Father James Hayer. the parish workers! for this 100th birthday! In appreciation of Howards half of the parish. dedication, as well as his birthday, a Interestingly, Howard survived beautiful birthday cake with his pic- the great Spanish Influenza of 1919 ture was the center piece. Howard which claimed the life of his father was also presented with gifts from and brother; he is a veteran of World those attending and a special icon War II; and he has met Mrs. Eleanor from Father Mykhaylo Prodanets, Roosevelt during the war. May God pastor of Saint John Church, on be- grant him many blessed years!

Left to right: Sister Regina, OSBM, Sister Miriam Claire, OSBM, Superior General; Sister Theodosia, OSBM, and Father James Hayer.

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

Part 2 - Division and Unity By Father Jody J. Baran

any of the Ruthenian people came to the country. Employment in the steel mills and coal Mnortheastern Pennsylvania to work in mines out in western Pennsylvania and eastern the mines in the anthracite coal fields of that re- Ohio, brought the people out there for work and gion. Even though the journey was long and trou- settlement. Parishes grew up in Duquesne, PA, blesome, it was tempered with a great faith. This Punxsutawney, PA, Leisinring, PA, Cleveland, OH faith helped them to leave their familiar surround- and in Trauger, PA. Parishes were aleo establsihed ings of their villages, homes, families and friends in Johnstown, PA, Braddock, PA Homestead, PA, to come to this far land that was strange, unsure Marblehead, OH, Pleasant City, OH, Barnesboro and filled with uncertainty. Their faith gave them PA, Charleroi, PA, Pittsburgh, PA, Windber, PA courage and hope. For this reason, upon arrival and Youngstown, OH. in the United States, the priority of our ancestors, Father John Wolansky after the establishment of their homes and securing tween) between the American Roman Catholic hi- of work, was to build churches. erarchy and the Greek Catholic clergy here in this Although there were other Catholic churches country. This decision was both divisive and prob- already established in America at that time, our im- lematic because both the Roman hierarchy and the migrant ancestors longed for the beautiful worship majority of Greek Catholic clergy refused to accept they had experienced in the Byzantine churches and acknowledge his appointment. Consequently, in Europe. They longed for the ancient chants and in 1896, after much turmoil and disappointment music, the extremely intense ritual and smell of in- Father Chanat resigned as Vicar General. cense with the familiar icons and other devotions to What followed was another six years filled which they were accustomed. They began to build with petitions and requests of Rome by the Greek churches and petition for priests to minister to them Catholic clergy and laity for an appointment of a in their own language and rite. They often built the Byzantine Catholic bishop. Finally, in 1902, with churches with their own hands and made many a recommendation of the Hungarian government, personal sacrifices to afford construction expenses. the Holy See named Father Andrew Hodobay, a In 1884, a Greek Catholic priest from Galicia, canon and member of the Chapter of the Prešov Father John Wolansky organized the first Greek Diocese, as Apostolic Visitator for all Greek Cath- Catholic Church in America. This was in the coal olics in the United States. Father Hodobay was mining town of Shenandoah, Pennsylvania. This given the commission to investigate all there was ministry of Father Wolansky spread to other towns to discover about the “religious controversy” con- throughout the area. Saint Mary Church in Free- cerning the Byzantine Church in America. Father land, PA was established in 1886 – this church has Hodobay’s mission ended up being difficult and the distinction of being the oldest parish in what divisive. Eventually, in 1907, he was recalled to is now the Byzantine Catholic Metropolia of Pitts- Europe, but even though this happened, Rome ac- burgh. Next, Father Wolansky established Saint cepted his recommendation that a bishop be named Mary Church in Kingston, PA in 1887 and Saint for the Byzantine faithful in the United States. Mary in Wilkes-Barre, PA in 1888. Churches were Icon of Father John Wolansky, “First Greek Because of the need to restore peace amongst also established to served the faithful in areas of Catholic Priest in America” depicted with the the clergy and faithful of the Byzantine Church Olyphant, PA; Hazleton, PA; Jersey City, NJ; Min- pioneer parishes in Shenadoah, PA; Freeland, in America and to put a stop to those leaving the neapolis, MN; Whiting, IN; and the parish of Saint PA; Kingston, PA; and Wilkes-Barre, PA. Icon Church for Orthodoxy, Rome appointed the Father Michael the Archangel (which would become the located in St. Mary Church in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Soter Stephen Ortinsky, a Basilian monk from the Cathedral of Saint Michael the Archangel) in Pas- country of Galicia, as the Bishop for all Byzantine saic, New Jersey in 1890. Catholics in America. This appointment was made Establishment of these parishes also had some on March 4, 1907. Thinking this would bring an As time went by, the Byzantine Catholic disadvantages. The clergy that came to staff these end to the divisive issues in the Church, the ap- Church continued to grow and move westward to parishes were married. This, among other things, pointment of Bishop Ortinsky did not. After six western Pennsylvania and farther westward across led to a decree that was handed down from Rome long years of continuous in-fighting, ethnic rival- in 1890 prohibiting the presence of married priests ries and divisions and immense threats of schism serving in the United States. This very much dis- (separation from the Catholic Church), Rome saw turbed the clergy who saw this as a denial of their no other course of action and officially established legitimate heritage and patrimony. In response to an Apostolic Exarchate (missionary diocese) for all this, a meeting occurred in Hazleton, Pennsylvania the clergy and people of the Ruthenian Rite in the one year later in 1891. The gathered clergy strong- United States. Along with this, they also granted ly protested this decree and petitioned the Holy See full episcopal jurisdiction and authority to Bish- in Rome for the appointment of a Vicar General op Ortinsky on May 13, 1913. This action finally to administer the affairs of the Byzantine (Greek brought about peace and unity to the Byzantine Catholic) Church in the United States. Unfortu- (Greek Catholic) Church which had grown to 152 nately, this petition and the protest that sparked it parishes, 43 mission churches, 154 priests and an received no immediate results. Some clergy, there- estimated half-million people of both Carpatho- fore, decided to take matters into their own hands Rusyn and Ukrainian heritage. and met once again in 1892 to elected their own Vicar General. It was a man of their own ranks, a To be continued. widowed priest, Father Nicephor Chanat. His es- St. Mary Church, Freeland, PA sential role was to act as the intermediary (go-be- Oldest Parish in the Metropolia of Pittsburgh. Page 6 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, December 2, 2012

You are Invited to a Special Event! “Lord I Believe and Profess” A Parish Mission for the Year of Faith

As part of its commemoration of the Year of Faith, the Ep- Mission Schedule: archy of Passaic is offering a parish mission to be preached First Night - What is The Year of in the parishes of the eparchy. Faith? Some of the Holy Father’s re- What is a Parish Mission? flections in Porta Fidei and his upcoming encyclical on faith. A Parish Mission is a time of personal renewal, where What is faith - belief in the things revealed by God in scripture we are challenged to “commit ourselves and one another and through the teaching of the Church but also faith is trust and our whole life to Christ our God.” (Liturgy of Saint John in and relationship to a person, Jesus Christ. On this night Chrysostom) During three evenings of prayer and preaching we are encouraged to commit ourselves to the teachings of we are invited by the Lord Jesus to renew our faith in Him the Church. and in the teachings of His Church. Second Night - Faith as Trust. The primary object of faith What is the Year of Faith? as trust is a person, Jesus Christ, who loves us and whom we can trust because He is like us in all things but sin. He is The Year of Faith is an opportunity for every Catholic the “author and perfecter of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:12) He to turn towards Jesus Christ, encounter him in the Sacra- is God and yet suffered like us and knows our suffering. His ments, especially the Eucharist and rediscover the Faith and answer to suffering on the Cross was faith in His Father (He Church. With his Apostolic Letter of October 11, 2011, Porta is the pioneer of faith) and the Risen Christ leads us to faith Fidei, Pope Benedict XVI declared that a “Year of Faith” will (He is the perfecter of our faith). On this night we are encour- begin on October 11, 2012 and conclude on November 24, aged to come to a relationship of trust with Jesus who loved 2013. October 11, 2012, the first day of the Year of Faith, is us and gave His life for us. the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II) and also the twentieth anniversary of the Third Night - Mary, the Model of Faith. We will meditate Catechism of the Catholic Church. During the Year of Faith, on examples of Mary’s trust in God throughout her life: The Catholics are asked to study and reflect on the documents of Annunciation, the birth of Jesus, the Presentation, the mar- Vatican II and the Catechism so that they may deepen their riage at Cana, the Cross and the ways in which Mary trusted knowledge of the faith. God in all these situations. On this night we are encouraged to take Mary as our model of trust in God. “The door of faith (Acts 14:27) is always open for us, ush- ering us into the life of communion with God and offering en- Who is invited to the Mission? try into His Church.” - Pope Benedict XVI, Apostolic Letter In a word: everyone! The Mission is not limited to pa- Porta Fidei for the Indiction of the Year of Faith. rishioners. You are encouraged to invite family and friends, The upcoming Year of Faith is a “summons to an authen- churchgoers and non-churchgoers, Catholics and non-Cath- tic and renewed conversion to the Lord, the One Savior of the olics. The Mission is an opportunity for us to meet Jesus world” (Porta Fidei 6). In other words, the Year of Faith is an again or for the first time. opportunity for Catholics to experience a conversion – to turn About the Mission Preacher back to Jesus and enter into a deeper relationship with Him. The mission will be preached by Father The “door of faith” is opened at one’s baptism, but during this Frank Hanincik. Father Frank is a gradu- year Catholics are called to open it again, walk through it and ate of the Pennsylvania State University rediscover and renew their relationship with Christ and his and obtained his Master of Divinity degree Church. (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops) from Saints Cyril and Methodius Byzantine The Mission will consist of three weeknight sessions in Catholic Seminary. He is a member of the church. Each session will begin with a brief prayer service Youth Secretariat of the Eparchy of Passa- and include a 35 to 45 minute sermon. There will be an op- ic and of the Inter-eparchial Evangelization portunity for you to participate in the Mystery of Reconciliation Commission. He has given a number of retreats and talks for both before and after the service. You are warmly encour- the Eparchy of Passaic and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. aged to receive the Mystery of Reconciliation (Confession) He is currently pastor of Saint John the Baptist Byzantine This Mystery is an encounter with the Lord’s merciful love Catholic Church in Trumbull, CT and administrator of Holy and can be a wonderful first step in renewing our decision to Trinity Byzantine Catholic Church in New Britain, CT. follow Him.

To Schedule a mission, pastors may contact Father Frank at 203-377-5967 or email him at [email protected].

Missions are already scheduled at the following locations:

~ Wyoming Valley Parishes - December 18th, 19th and 20th ~ Saint Ann’s in Harrisburg, PA - February 5th, 6th and 7th ~ Jessup and Forest City, PA - March 17th, 18th and 19th Sunday, December 2, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 7

Encounter East - 2012 Together in Christ Hillsborough, NJ - October 12-14, 2012

EDITOR’S NOTE: The second of three “Encounters” re- West Coast in El Segundo, CA. Open to all Eastern Catholic cently convened on the East Coast at Saint Mary Byzantine laity and clergy, the purpose of the Encounter is the renewal Catholic Church in Hillsborough, NJ. The first was in the Mid- of our relationship with Jesus Christ and the sharing of that west in Cleveland, OH and the third and final one was on the relationship with others.

hen the disciples encountered the Ris- the participants the Encounter. Bishop Nicholas stitution that has sacraments?” he asked, citing Wen Lord on the road to Emmaus (Luke outlined the evolution of the previous Encounters Bishop Kallistos Ware. Because the Church is a 24), their lives were changed forever. Our en- from the initial invitation, in 1999, from Cardinal sacrament, we must not allow ourselves to be- counters with the Risen Lord, through liturgical, Silvistrini for Eastern Catholic hierarchs to “get come distracted by the solely human element of catechetical, and spiritual gatherings, can deeply together,” to subsequent meetings with hierarchs the Church so as to overlook the divine, he said. impact our own lives as well as the lives of those and designated clergy and laity, to the present for- He went on to say that the source of our unity as with whom we have contact. Our renewed rela- mat of an encounter, open to all faithful focus- Church is the Eucharist. Yet, in American culture tionship with Christ, and the sharing of that rela- ing on the leadership of the laity. He then went today, the sense of the sacramental nature of the tionship with others, is at the heart of Encounter on to acknowledge the Encounter 2012 National Church is becoming more obscured. There is less 2012. Committee members: Father Gregory Noga and and less a concept of “acts of the church,” while Dr. Barbara Yastishock Lutz, both of the Eparchy more and more faith and spirituality are seen as Held across the United States in Cleveland, of Passaic, and Father John Lucas of the Ukrai- personal expressions. In this regard, we are ex- OH; Hillsborough, NJ and El Segundo, CA from nian Eparchy of St. Nicholas in Chicago. Bishop periencing a “privatization” of sacraments and September to November, 2012, the groundwork Samra then commended the organizational efforts religion, he noted, yet the whole purpose of the for the Encounter 2012 actually began more than of the Regional Committee Members which in- Church is communion with God, the Church, and a decade ago. In 1999, in Boston, the first En- cluded: Father Edward Cimbala, of the Eparchy one another. counter was planned by Rome. Hierarchs of all of Passaic, Coordinator and host pastor; Father American Eastern Catholic eparchies, as well as Vasile Colopenic of the Eparchy of Stamford; Fa- “Royal Priesthood” heads of monastic communities, and one or two ther George David of the Eparchy of St. George Presented by Dr. Maureen Daddona guests of each bishop, were invited to attend. in Canton; Dr. Barbara Lutz of the Eparchy of Later, in Chicago, in 2006, a second Encounter Passaic; Father Gregory Noga of the Eparchy of was planned by the Eastern Catholic bishops. Passaic; Archimandrite Kenneth Sherman of the This, too, was “by invitation only” and included Eparchy of Newton; and Msgr. Peter Waslo of the a wider range of attendees, primarily those clerics Archeparchy of Philadelphia. and laity involved in religious education. How- ever, Encounter 2012 became a project entrusted “Who is Church?” to the members of the Eastern Conference of Ep- Presented by Father Damon Geiger archial Directors of Religious Education (ECED) and was open to all interested Eastern Catholic clergy, religious or faithful. On September 21- 22, the first of these three programs was held at a Holiday Inn near Cleveland, OH. More than 80 priests, deacons and their wives attended the inau- gural event, with over 200 faithful attending the program on the following days. The Second Session was delivered by Dr. The Second Encounter, which is the focus of Maureen Daddona, a Professor Emeritus of Hu- this article, continued during the week of October man Genetics with a Doctorate in Neuroendo- 11-14 at Saint Mary Byzantine Catholic Church in crinology, spoke on the topic of the “Activity of Hillsborough, NJ where Father Edward Cimbala, the Royal Priesthood.” Dr. Daddona noted that Administrator of the Eparchy of Passaic, is pastor. through the Mysteries of Initiation (Baptism, The Second Encounter welcomed 80 priests and Chrismation, and Eucharist), laity and clergy deacons, spouses, vendors and support staff who alike are anointed and given the mandate to go were in attendance for the Clergy Conference on The First Session began with a presentation forth and “make the will of God resound in the October 11-12, with an additional 185 faithful by Father Damon Geiger on “Who is Church?” communities of the world.” Baptism, the recep- present for the Main Conference from October A convert from Lutheranism to Eastern Catholi- tion of Eucharist, and Chrismation, unite all 12-14. cism, Father Geiger reflected on the sacramental members of the Church into the royal priesthood Following the opening prayer service, Melkite nature of Christ’s Church. “Is the Church a Sacra- Bishop Nicholas Samra, Chairperson, welcomed ment that takes on institutional forms, or an in- Continued on next page.

Father Ed Cimbala Bishop Metropolitan Bishop Father Gregory Noga Eparchial Administrator Nicholas Samra Stefan Soroka Gregory Mansour Encounter Committee Page 8 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, December 2, 2012

by our sharing of the Divine Nature and our call to be how to share and profess our Faith. As missionaries of sent out as apostles of the sacred truth. In this regard, the New Evangelization, we are all called to reach out she shared her professional and personal experiences to lapsed Catholics, recalling that the Church exists of the transforming power of the Eucharist. She also to evangelize. This, she stressed, is not the work of stressed the importance of sharing this reality of faith the clergy alone; rather, it is the urgent and awesome with an increasing number of young people who have responsibility of the laity who are “co-responsible” no affiliation with religion, but consider themselves to for the Church along with the clergy. Change “begins be spiritual. “If we are the Church,” she said, “and if from within,” she said, and by deepening our intima- we are the Royal Priesthood, then our responsibility is cy with Christ, “we change the Church.” to bring the light to young people” because “we are as vital to their salvation as they are to ours.” Main Address Summary Delivered Bishop Peter Labasci “Blueprint for Church Growth” Presented by Sister Marla Marie Lucas

The Main Session was delivered by Bishop Peter Labasci, Bishop of Manchester, New Hampshire. His The Third Session was delivered by Sister Marla main address was very well received and some even Marie Lucas, a Maronite Sister of Christ the Light, commented that it was reminiscent of the preach- who spoke on the “Blueprint for Church Growth.” ing of Bishop Fulton J. Sheen. Bishop Libasci, who Sister Marla observed that in America today, “we are is bi-ritual and celebrates the Divine Liturgy in the in a crisis of faith,” and used the model of Christian Byzantine Catholic Ruthenian Church, spoke on community found in Acts 2: 42-47 as the basis for her “The ‘How’ and the ‘What’ of Lay Leadership.” He reflections. Sister reminded her listeners that inev- touched his audience with his recitation of the prayers ery encounter with the Risen Christ, our “faith can be of vesting for Byzantine clergy. He then stated that renewed in wholeness and splendor.” She also noted “being clothed in Christ is the vestment common to that, during the forthcoming Year of Faith proclaimed us all.” He said that the faithful should wear their faith by the Holy Father, we can all respond to our call to on their sleeve, for “if it’s in the heart, it’s going to be “credible, joy-filled witnesses,” and “re-learn” show” and lay ministry is about sharing a “message Sunday, December 2, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 9

of hope.” He reminded people to pray publicly. “Say las also challenged his listeners to reflect on what are your prayers at McDonald’s,” he said, and be will- God’s desires for the Church. Then, drawing from 1 ing to share your faith with your neighbors because Peter, Chapter 2, the Bishop reflected on the Church “you don’t have to be a theologian” to do such things. as a spiritual house built with “living stones.” He then He said lay ministry is about reminding people that offered the reflection: “what kind of stone are we?” “beyond civil law, there is God’s law: of charity, for- Are we living stones or inactive stones when it comes giveness, and mercy” and about sharing a faith “that to servant leadership in the Church? In this regard, he reminds there is a tomorrow” and brings “a message also stressed the importance of stewardship, as “the of hope.” Bishop Peter displayed a passionate love for heart of being human,” and the “bottom line princi- his role as shepherd, but he closed with the reminder pal of being Christian.” As Christian stewards we will that even the shepherd-bishop begins as one who is care for the Church, strategically plan for the future baptized. “All you who have been baptized into Christ of the parish, not just live week by week, and con- have been clothed in Christ…” tinually ask “what does God want?” In this regard, the Bishop said, we are “not yet finished,” rather, the “Servant Leadership - Be All You work of Servant Leadership is “continued when you Can Be; we are not finished yet” go home.” Presented by Bishop Nicholas Samra Conclusion The hospitality of the volunteers of the host par- ish, Saint Mary Byzantine Church of Hillsborough, NJ was appreciated by all in attendance. The mod- ern and ample facilities allowed for vendor displays, dining facilities, liturgical celebrations, and session presentations all in one convenient and centrally lo- cated place. Moreover, the location of a Ukrainian Catholic church next door, allowed for liturgical di- versity within walking distance. The homilists for the services and Divine Liturgies echoed the themes of the Session speakers. During Morning Prayers, Ma- ronite Bishop Gregory Mansour noted that the church “exists to evangelize,” including to those already baptized through the New Evangelization. Metropoli- tan Stefan Soroka of the Ukrainian Catholic Church The Final Session was delivered by Bishop Nich- likewise challenged all to reach out to the “lost and olas Samra, Bishop of the Melkite Greek Catholic lapsed” of the faith; and Father Edward Cimbala, Ad- Eparchy of Newton who addressed the participants ministrator of the Eparchy of Passaic, encouraged ev- just prior to their departure. His presentation was ap- eryone to share their faith by “passing it on” from one propriately entitled, “Servant Leadership - Be All You generation to the next. This message was visually en- Can Be; we are not finished yet.” Bishop Nicholas hanced by the passing on of scrolls of faith which Fa- began his presentation with an outline of the devel- ther Edward distributed and asked to be passed from opment of the three structural offices of the church – one person to the next. That, indeed, is the message of bishop, priest, deacon – and noted their connection to the Encounter – to encounter our Lord in a new and the purpose of service to God’s people. Bishop Nicho- dramatic way and pass on the treasure of faith to all around us. Page 10 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, December 2, 2012

Prepare for Christmas with prayer and music!

Emmanuel Moleben and Concert - 3:00 PM Sunday December 9, 2012 Franciscan Friary, Sybertsville, PA

Concert by cantors of Northeast PA, Andrew Drozdik, Director. Father Carmen, OFM Celebrant.

Holy Dormition Friary Chapel PA State Rt 93 at Main St., Sybertsville, PA 18251 570-788-1212 or [email protected]

Jersey City Choir Parish Cookbook Offers Holiday CD’s for Christmas! and Cassettes Saint Mary Choir announces the sale of The Ladies Guild of St. Nicholas their four Compact Disc (CD) recordings Parish, Munster, IN, has published and their four stereo cassette record- a new cookbook “St. Nicholas Fam- ings. Compact Discs are $12.00 each, ily Recipes,” featuring over 300 reci- or any four for $43.95. Stereo cassette recordings are pes, including traditional recipes for $7.95 each or any four for $29.95. All order are postage Christmas and Easter. and handling free. The books are $15, plus a $5 ship- Select from: Great Fast and Resurrection; Divine Liturgy ping fee. To order send name and in Old Slavonic; Divine Liturgy in English; or Christmas address and a check for $20 to St. caroling. Nicholas Ladies Guild, 8103 Colum- To order, contact: Saint Mary Choir, 231 Pacific Ave., bia Ave., Munster, IN 46321. Jersey City, NJ 07304

The Original Cookbook of Favorite Slavic Recipes The perfect Christmas Gift! Price: $5.00 (postage included) Send to: Favorite Slavic Recipe, Holy Spirit Byzantine Catholic Church 360 Clinton St., Binghamton, PA 13905 Sunday, December 2, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 11

Symbols of the Christmas Icon

he Nativity Icon reveals the truths about Christ and the are wandering in the dark wilderness of a sinful world. Christ, Tabout the effects of His Holy Birth upon the world. however, was born into the world to redeem, save, and nourish us with His Body and Blood. What the Icon teaches about Christ: Christ brings salva- He is both God and tion to all. This is symbol- man. All creation recogniz- ized by the cloth (a travel- es His divinity. The moun- ing bag) upon which Mary tains curve inward, point- rests. This reminds us ing to Christ; the Angels that God’s salvation is not and beasts of the earth meant just for one people, (ox and ass) are present culture, race or time; it is in jubilation. Christ is rec- for all people everywhere ognized by all creation ex- and for all generations. cept for the most beloved In a sense, Christ’s re- of all creation: mankind. demption “travels” to the The Prophet Isaiah tells corners of the earth for us that the “ox knows its all people and for all gen- owner and the ass knows erations. God’s salvation its masters crib; only Israel for all people is also rep- has not known Me.” resented by the presence Christ was born into of the magi and the shep- the world in order to die for herds: just as the magi the salvation of the world. and the shepherds were This is symbolized by the of different backgrounds swaddling clothes that the and cultures, so is God’s Christ-Child wears. Swad- salvation. Moreover, this is dling clothes are remi- further emphasized by the niscent of burial clothes. traditional age differences Moreover, Christ is never of the magi. Tradition tells depicted as a “baby.” Even us that one magi was old, in the icon of His birth He one was middle-aged, and is shown as a miniature one was young. Similarly, adult (without beard). This Christ’s birth affects peo- is done to show His aware- ple of all ages everywhere ness of God’s plan of Sal- and forever. vation even from His birth. People will always What the Icon teaches doubt God’s mysterious about the effect of Christ’s ways. There will always Birth on the world: be people who will doubt, Christ came into the deny or simply forget or world in order redeem ignore the meaning of the world. The gates of Paradise that were closed by the sin of Christ’s Birth upon the world. One pious interpretation of the Adam and Eve, are reopened by Christ, the “new Adam,” and symbols of the icons sees a tempter coming in the guise of a Mary, the “new Eve”. In other words, Christ was born into a world shepherd who speaks to St. Joseph, attempting to stir doubt that was darkened by sin (symbolized by the dark interior of the in his heart regarding the Virginal birth. The Holy Spouse, Jo- cave). But, Christ came into the world as the “light of the world” seph, remains a steadfast model of fidelity, loyalty and faith to all to save the world (symbolized by the light shining down upon who tend to forget the real meaning and mystery of Christmas! Him.) Moreover, the entire scene takes place in the wilderness. This reminds us of the occasion when the Jews were wandering Christ is Born! Glorify Him! in the desert wilderness and God fed them with manna. We, too,

Old Calendar Easter in the Old Country A Pilgrimage Tour - April 28 - May 10, 2013

Join Father Ed Cimbala and Father Charles Yastishock for a pilgrimage to the “Old Country.” During this thirteen day tour (April 23 to May 3, 2008) we will visit Poland, Slovakia, Ukraine and Czech Republic. The trip cost includes airfare, hotel accommodations two meals daily, special performances, English speaking guide, and admissions. Taxes, fees and tips will be extra. Spend “Old Calendar” Easter in Uzhorod on Sunday, May 5. This will certainly be a memorable experience.

Cost will be announced shortly. For a brochure and detailed information, please contact: Father Ed Cimbala, St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, 1900 Brooks Boulevard, Hillsborough, NJ 08844 Or call 908-725-0165 email: [email protected]. Page 12 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, December 2, 2012

Seasonal Reflections By Msgr. John. T. Sekellick, JCL

Saint John of Damascus December 4th

It is the day of Resurrection, O people, let us be Damascus was ruled by Abdul-Malek, a benevo- enlightened by it. The Passover is the Lord’s Pass- lent Islamic Caliph whose chief officer was Saint over, since Christ, our God, has brought us from John’s father. Upon the death of his father, John death to life, and from earth to heaven. Therefore, succeeded his father in that position. Because John we sing the hymn of victory.” boldly denounced iconoclasm against the Emperor Leo the Isaurian, the emperor forged a letter with hus begins the Resurrection Canon com- John’s signature inviting him to attack Damas- posed by Saint John Damascene whose T cus because its defenses were weak and offering feast is observed on December 4. This great Saint dained him a priest. to betray the city into Leo’s hands. Abdul learned of our Eastern Church is known as the last of the of it and accepted it as authentic. Consequently, He also wrote a refutation of Islam. The time Greek Fathers. His most famous work – The Foun- he ordered the amputation of John’s right hand as he had spent as a counselor in the courts of the tain of Faith - is an enormous compilation of the punishment for his supposed treason, even though Moslems of Damascus had given him a unique op- sound theological teachings of great ecclesiastical John vehemently professed his innocence. portunity to learn their teachings at first hand. Ac- writers who had preceded him. Many scholars see cordingly, he was able to point out their errors with it as a prototype of a summa theologica more well John subsequently prayed before an icon of sound understanding. John had become a valiant known in the Western Church from the writings of the Mother of God, and his hand was re-joined to warrior for the truth of Christ. He was surnamed Saint Thomas Aquinas. It is written in three parts. his arm and miraculously healed. When the Ca- Chrysorroas (“Golden-stream”) because of the el- It is the third part – De Fide Orthodoxa (On the liph learned of this, he repented of his action and oquence of his rhetorical style and the great abun- Orthodox Faith) which is the most important of wanted to reinstate John as his chief officer. John dance of his writings. John’s writings and one of the most notable works however withdrew to the monastery of Saint Sab- of Christian antiquity. bas, some eighteen miles south-east of Jerusalem, Come, you faithful, let us praise the hymn-writ- where he became a model of humility and obedi- er, the Church’s luminary and wise instructor, the Saint John was born in Damascus, Syria about ence, performing the most menial tasks. It was dur- saintly John, who cast down all her enemies; for the year 676 of wealthy parents. He died between ing this time that he composed the hymns which since he took up the Cross of the Lord as a weapon, 754 and 787, at an advanced age. The last years of are still used at funerals. He assembled the Octo- he drove off the heresies with their every delusion, his life saw him embroiled in the raging contro- echos (Book of the Eight Tones) and other liturgi- and as our fervent champion with God, he grants versy of the time – iconoclasm, the heresy which cal Services, including the Easter Canon. He au- all the forgiveness of transgressions. taught that no sacred images (icons) are allowed. thored many profound theological works. John was - Kontakion of the Saint At the time of his birth and subsequent life, quite elderly when the Patriarch of Jerusalem or-

Letters from the Editor Compiled by Father James Hayer, Editor

Waiting on the Lord the same in my business!” J If you have an inspiring story or young priest waiting in a long line recently to have his Don’t wait any longer! Get to article you wish to share you may Acar filled up with gas. The attendant worked quickly, church this Christmas and keep holy send it to Father James at: “Let- but there were many cars ahead of him. Finally, the attendant the Lord’s day - this Sunday and ev- ters from the Editor” c/o: motioned for him to drive to a vacant pump. “Padre,” the at- ery Sunday! Saint Mary Church, tendant said, “I am sorry about the delay, but it seems as if 695 N. Main St., Wilkes-Barre, PA (Many thanks to Dan from Penn- 18705. or E-Mail him at everyone waits until the last minute to get ready for a long trip.” sylvania for sharing this story!) The young priest smiled and said. I know what you mean. It’s [email protected]. Carpathian Cookery Cookbook for the Holidays! Tried and true traditional Rusyn and Slavic recipies for the Pre-Christmas Fast, the Lenten fast and much more! The 330-page cookbook is $14.00 plus $4.00 postage and handling ($17.00). If ordering from Canada, please send a $25.00 US postal money order. To order, send check or money order to “Ethnic Craft Club” - Saint John Byzantine Catholic Church, 201 E. Main St., Uniontown, PA 15401 or call 724-438-6027. You may also contact [email protected].

Christmas CD Available Sung by the Ecclesia Choirs of Chicago, a Christmas music CD is available for only $15. In addition, Lec- tor Timothy Woods, of Saint Mary Byzantine Catholic Parish in Whiting IN, has harmonized the Ruthenian funeral melodies in a fresh and thoughtful way. Sung by the Ecclesia Choirs of Chicago, this CD is now available for only $8. Sheet music is also available for a donation of $10. Go to ecclesia-lcp.com and go to the donation page, or call 815-806-0066. There are a limited number of copies and almost half the supply has already been distributed. Sunday, December 2, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 13

Understanding Icons By Father Joseph Bertha, PhD

Our Lady of Guadalupe Feast day - December 12th he miraculous image of Our Our Lady of Guadalupe as the Pa- bly the scripture verses from Rev- TLady of Guadalupe, pres- troness of the Western Hemisphere elation 2: 1-2, the “Woman Clothed ently enshrined in the Mexico City and all the Americas. The feast has with the sun.” The biblical text men- Basilica bearing this name, is an im- also been added to our Byzantine tions two details found in the Gua- age “not made by human hands.” Liturgical calendar. dalupe image: first, the downward (Acheiropoieta). gaze of the Virgin, and second the The scriptural, theological, treading or standing on the crescent The earliest historical text writ- spiritual, liturgical and art histori- moon. In Spain, through the centu- ten in Nahuatl (Aztec language) the cal aspects of this image need to be ries these details have been incorpo- Nican Nopoa appears in 1640. This investigated, in the anticipation that rated into images of the Immaculate is over 100 years after the images the religious symbolism will reveal Conception. Further details men- first unveiling to Franciscan Bishop- the intentions of the heavenly artist. tioned in the book of Revelation, elect Fray Juan de Zumarraga of The area of art history starts with a such as the trampling on the snake Mexico City on December 12, 1535. brief description of the image. The and the twelve stars circling the Vir- Holy Virgin is portrayed as a young The great power of the image According to this account, it was gin’s halo, have also been incorpo- Aztec woman with her gaze down- of Our Lady of Guadalupe deserves at the third return visit to the Bish- rated into these images. One irony is cast. She is clothed with a turquoise our deeper attention and examina- op that (Saint) Juan Diego (an Az- the trampling on the crescent moon, blue maphonion (mantle) over a tion. The Mexican faithful are filled tec) unfurled his tilma, as Castilian which is interpreted as the triumph rose-colored chiton (tunic) with em- with great awe and respect to the (from Spain) roses tumbled from the of the Virgin, and therefore the Cath- broidered flowers. She stands on a Holy Virgin who appeared to them folded garment in 1535 and revealed olic Church, over the errors of non- crescent moon supported by a two- as a native Mexican. Her interces- the image of the holy Virgin Mother. believers, especially in regard to the winged cherubim. Her entire figure sion and consolation continue to ap- Since then, the image has been dis- Aztecs, who worshipped a snake is shown in a body halo, the man- peal to many people, drawing them played on Tepeyac Hill, where many god. dorla, while luminous gold rays em- into the net of faith and belief. miracles have occurred. Many physi- anate and encircle her whole body. Forty-six eight-pointed stars are cal healings through the intercession Her hands are folded together in arranged on the maphorion of the of the Virgin Mother have brought Troparion, Tone 4: When you prayer with a black knotted rope is Holy Virgin, which correspond ex- the ill back to full health. One of the appeared in the New World, O Moth- entwined them. Her left leg is shown actly to the pattern observed in the most interesting phenomena associ- er of God, you fixed your image on in movement or as if treading, or night sky astrologically observed ated with the image is the abundant Juan Diego’s rose-laden tilma. All some perhaps dancing. over Mexico City on December 12. conversions of the native Mexicans the poor, hungry, and oppressed seek These forty-six stars also reference to Catholic faith. Countless non-be- This general iconography of this you, Lady of Guadalupe. We gaze mystically the number of years Sol- lievers viewing and praying before image conforms to the 16th century upon your miraculous icon and find omon needed to complete construc- this icon have been evangelized and Spanish portrayals of the Immacu- hope, crying out to your Son con- tion of the Temple in Jerusalem. brought into the Catholic faith. late Conception. The feast, which cealed in your womb: Hear our plea The Holy Virgin is often called the was celebrated on December 9th in for justice, O Most merciful Lord. In order to uncover the appeal of temple, or the ark of the covenant, Spain, coincides with the date of the this image, it is necessary to delve found in Jerusalem. This descrip- Kontakion, Tone 7: No longer first apparition of the Holy Virgin to into the meaning of the iconogra- tion also coincides with the doctrine shall the New World lie wounded in Juan Diego in 1535. phy of this portrayal of the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception: her useless blood sacrifice, for she who Mary by heavenly artist. This is all The iconography of the Immac- womb is the ark which is kept pure is clothed with the sun has revealed the more imperative since, in 1999, ulate Conception in the religious from the contamination of sin. The the Son to us. O Mother of the Amer- Blessed Pope John Paul II elevated painting derive from the liturgical Virgin’s chiton, (tunic) is made of icas, imprint His name upon our texts damask, a woven usually silk ma- hearts, just as you wove your image for the terial invented and favored by the into the cactus cloth. Teach your feast, Byzantine and Islamic east. These children to cry out: O Christ God, most refer to the fruition of her womb in our hope, glory to you. Visiting nota- producing the Savior, Jesus Christ. Myrtle Beach Ascension of our Lord this Winter? Byzantine Catholic Church Attend Divine Liturgy at Blessed Basil Hopko Visiting Williamsburg? Byzantine Catholic Mission! The Divine Liturgy is celebrated monthly on TAKE A BREAK

Saturdays 5:00 PM. For dates and times, from sightseeing, Sunday Liturgy: 11 AM call the Parish Office at 843-347-6750. Or, shopping and thrill rides. Join us for Coffee call Don and Jean Wirth at 843-249-9502. and Fellowship The Basil Hopko Mission is located following Liturgy! BE SURE TO VISIT at 3059 Highway 90, Conway, Ascension of Our Lord Myrtle Beach, SC Byzantine Catholic Church, Questions? It is located between 114 Palace Lane, Call: Routes 22 and 501 on Highway 90. Williamsburg, VA 23185. 757-220-8098 Page 14 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, December 2, 2012

Byzantine Catholic Seminary Spring 2013 Courses at Byzantine Online

Byzantine Online is pleased to announce their slate of the spiritual experience of the Great Fast. courses for Spring 2013. Courses begin Monday, January 28, • History of the Eastern Church in America (Fr. David 2013. All Byzantine Online courses are 8 weeks in length and Petras, Professor of Liturgy, Byzantine Catholic Semi- require no special hardware or software to hear and participate nary) This course surveys Eastern Christianity in the in classes. Questions can be directed to Dr. Sandra Collins, New World, particularly in the United States, including director of Byzantine Online, at [email protected] or by calling he development of ethnic jurisdictions, both Catholic and 412-321-8383, ext. 23. Orthodox. Eastern Churches both Catholic and Ortho- • Introduction to Dogmatics (Fr. Jason DelVitto, St. dox will be examined, starting with the Russian missions George Antiochian Orthodox Church, Bridgeville, PA; in Alaska and following the immigration of various ethnic adjunct faculty, Byzantine Catholic Seminary) This churches into the United States. Special emphasis will course introduces students to the dogmatic tradition of be given to the Eastern Catholic Churches, the struggle the Byzantine Church as it continues to develop within over a married clergy, and the resulting divisions. the Holy Tradition. Students will explore the dogmatic • Evil and Exorcism in the Eastern Christian Tradi- truths as they are celebrated within the worshipping tion (Fr. Stelyios Muksuris, Dormition of the Theotokos community, especially within the Eucharistic celebration Greek Orthodox; professor, Byzantine Catholic Semi- as well as select Patristic and contemporary texts. nary) This course studies the concept of evil from the • Spirituality of the Great Fast: A Return to the Holy of perspective of both an ontological force (demonology) Holies (Fr. Daniel Forsythe, St. Basil the Great Byzan- and the voluntary rejection and absence of good. Fol- tine Catholic Church, Irving, TX) This course highlights lowing a historical survey of the problem of evil and the spirituality embedded within the Eastern Christian evil spirits (magic, shamanism, witchcraft, necromancy, celebration of the Great Fast. Students will look at the mantras, and other rituals), attention will be given to the major Biblical figures such as Noah, Abraham, Isaac Eastern Church’s practice of baptismal exorcisms, the and Joseph who are highlighted in the Scriptural read- Roman Catholic order of exorcists and their theological ings of the Great Fast. We will then consider the themes significance vis-à-vis Christian salvation. of judgment, repentance, prayer, transformation and Byzantine Online - 3605 Perrysville Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA resurrection that each figure represents as the focus of 15214 email: online.bcs.edu phone: 412-321-8383

Seminary Announcement Byzantine Online Spring 2013 Final Accredidation Visit for more Organization The Byzantine Catholic Seminary of Saints Cyril and information: Methodius is in the final stages of preparing for its reaccredi- online.bcs.edu tation. From November 26-29, 2012, a committee of six will Classes start Byzantine Online is pleased to announce their slate of conduct a comprehensive evaluation visit to the Seminary to Monday, January courses for Spring 2013. Starting Monday, January 28th, assess the progress that has been made according to the stan- 28, 2013 dards of ATS. Byzantine Online will offer Introduction to Dogmatics; Spirituality of the Great Fast; History of the Eastern Church As a part of this preparation, The Association of Theolog- Register now! ical Schools (ATS) requires that a school shall advertise to its in America; and, Evil and Exorcism in the Eastern Christian Tradition. constituencies that it is receiving an evaluation committee and invite comment in writing concerning the institution’s quali- Introduction to fications for accreditation. These comments will be available Dogmatics to the evaluation committee during their visit. (Fr. Jason DelVitto)

If you have any comments in this regard, please write and Spirituality of the send them to the attention of Dr. Betty Shovlin, Director of the Great Fast (Fr. Self-Study for Accreditation, at the Byzantine Catholic Semi- Daniel Forsythe) nary, 3605 Perrysville Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA. Thank you for considering this request. Evil and Exorcism (Fr. Stelyios Muksuris)

Eastern Church History (Fr. David Petras) Byzantine Online

 All courses eight Dr. Sandra Collins, Director weeks long. Byzantine Catholic Seminary 3605 Perrysville Avenue  No special hardware Pittsburgh, PA 15214 or software neces- Phone: 412- 321-8383, ext. 23 sary website: online.bcs.edu

 Audit courses for as Accredited by The Association of little as $300 Theological Schools Sunday, December 2, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 15

Come and See Weekend at Byzantine Catholic Seminary Enjoyed by Participants, Seminarians

PITTSBURGH, PA – Once a year, the Met- ropolitan Church of Pittsburgh’s Intereparchial Vocations Committee conducts a “Come and See” weekend for young men eighteen to twenty four years of age. The three day weekend is held at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of Saints Cyril and Methodius in Pittsburgh, PA. This year, the “Weekend” was from October 5 – 7, 2012. The “Come and See” weekend hosted seven young men who came from the Eparchies of Phoenix, Parma and Pittsburgh. The Coordinator of the “Weekend” was Father Sal Pignato (Eparchy of Passaic) assisted by Archpriest Dennis Hrubiak (Eparchy of Parma). The participants arrived on Friday evening and were welcomed by a pizza social. The sched- ule was quite full and began on Friday evening with a welcome and talk on the origins of semi- Archpriest David Petras, Seminary Spiritual Director, celebrates the Divine Liturgy nary by the Acting Rector of the seminary, Fa- for the participants in the beautiful Seminary Chapel. ther George Gallaro, who focused on the need for formation and learning in the seminary. The sented by Archpriest Dennis Hrubiak who spoke narians and participants enjoying dinner at a res- men were given a tour of the seminary by one on the vocation of marriage and the vocation of taurant in Pittsburgh. the celibate priesthood. The focus for this confer- of the seminarians, followed by the first confer- The men greeted Sunday morning with Morn- ence was on choice of a vocation and possible call ence on Friday evening which was on “Vocation ing Prayer and celebration of the Divine Liturgy. to priesthood. The talk was geared for thought, re- and Priesthood” as experienced by Father Sal and Following the Divine Liturgy, there was a wrap-up flection and examining the possible signs of God Father Dennis. Immediately after the conference, talk after which lunch was served, thus conclud- calling these young men to follow Him in His the Office of Compline was celebrated in the ing the “Come and See Weekend”. The Vocation priesthood. Seminary Chapel, followed by light snacks before Directors of the Eparchies of the Metropolitan going to bed. On Saturday afternoon, Father George Galla- Church of Pittsburgh would like to encourage ro again gave a talk on the academics of the semi- pastors and parishioners to seek out those young nary and the formation program. The focus for men in the parish who they feel may have a voca- this talk was to give the men, should they choose tion to the priesthood. Please invite them to join to come into the seminary, an understanding of other young men next year in this great weekend the knowledge and expertise they would gain to of discernment at the seminary. be effective ministers of the Gospel and pastoral The “Come and See Weekend” was a very care givers. fruitful one. A lot of camaraderie was developed The third Conference on Saturday was giv- among the participants and with the seminar- en by Father Sal Pignato focusing on spiritual ians. The group was a very prayerful one and growth and discernment of a vocation. The goal they seemed to enjoy the weekend and what they of this Conference was to give the men the tools learned. In the Gospel, Philip said to Nathaniel for discernment of a vocation and to encourage that he found the Messiah. Nathaniel was not too them to develop a close relationship with Jesus sure, so Philip said to him, “Come and See.” On and His Father. October 5, 6 and 7, that is exactly what these sev- en young men did, they came and they saw. May The seminarians also gave witness talks dur- their pastors and parishioners continue to support Seminarian Lewis Rabayda gives ing the “Weekend” in regard to their own discern- them in their discernment and guide them, hope- a “witness talk” to the participants. ment and understanding of Call by Jesus in their fully one day, to the Altar of God as priests. own lives. The men seemed to identify well with The men were up early on Saturday morning the experiences of the seminarians. Great Vespers for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. The next was celebrated in the chapel on Saturday evening conference was on “Marriage and Celibacy” pre- followed by a night out on the town with the semi-

Subdeacon Steven Galuschik offers his insights as a seminarian at Father George Gallaro, acting Rector, speaks on academics Saints Cyril and Methodius Seminary. and the seminary formation program. Page 16 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, December 2, 2012

The Order of Divine Services Typikon For Cantors, Chanters, and Faithful Arranged by Archpriest David M. Petras, SEOD SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23 TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTE- Our Venerable Father Daniel the Stylite, Our Ven- SUNDAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS, OF THE AN- COST. The Holy Prophet Habakkuk. The Passing erable Father Spiridon the Wonder-worker, Bish- CESTORS. The Holy Ten Martyrs of Crete. Com- of the Blessed Confessor Ivan Slezyuk, Bishop of op of Tremithus. memoration of the Dedication of the Great Church Ivano-Frankivsk (1973). of Holy Wisdom in Constantinople. Common for Venerable. Epistle, Hebrews 4:1-11; Resurrection Tone 2. Common for Prophet. Epistle: Gospel, Mark 8:22-26. Resurrection Tone 5. Epistle, Hebrews 11:9-10.17- Ephesians 6:10-17; Gospel: Luke 18:18-27. 23.32-40; Gospel, Matthew 1:1-25. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12 MONDAY, DECEMBER 3 MONDAY, DECEMBER 24 Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe The Holy Prophet Zephaniah Vigil of Christmas. The Holy Great Martyr Euge- Mitigation of Fasting. Common for Mother of God. nia Common for Prophet. Epistle, 2 Timothy 2:20-26; Epistle, Hebrews 9:1-7; Gospel, Luke 1:39-56. Gospel, Luke 20:27-44 . Day of Strict Fast. After Matins, the Royal Hours for THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13 Christmas are celebrated. Christmas Eve Vigil Litur- TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4 The Holy Martyrs Eustratius, Auxentius, Eugene, gy: Bright vestments are worn. As a pastoral option, The Holy Great Martyr Barbara. Our Venerable Mardarius and Orestes. The Holy Virgin Martyr a Vigil Liturgy of Saint Basil with Vespers may be Father John of Damascus. Lucy. celebrated. Epistle, Hebrews 1:1-12; Gospel, Luke 2:1-20. Commons for Woman-Martyr. Epistle, 2 Timothy Mitigation of Fasting. Common for Many Martyrs. 3:16-4:3; Gospel, Luke 21:12-19. Epistle, Ephesians 6:10-17; Gospel, Luke 21:12-19. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14 CHRISTMAS, THE BIRTH OF OUR LORD, GOD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST. Our Venerable and God-bearing Father Sabbas The Holy Martyrs Thrysus, Leucas, Philemon, the Consecrated. Appolonius and Callinicus. The Blessed Priest Great Feast. Day of Pascha. There is no fasting. The and Ascetic Father Nimatulla al-Hardini (Joseph Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom is celebrat- Mitigation of Fasting. Common for Venerable. Epis- Kassab). ed. Epistle, Galatians 4:4-7; Gospel, Matthew 2:1-12. tle, Galatians 5:22-6:2; Gospel, Matthew 11:27-30. Common for Many Martyrs. Epistle, Hebrews 7:18- WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6 25; Gospel, Mark 9:33-41. SYNAXIS OF THE MOTHER OF GOD. The Holy OUR HOLY FATHER NICHOLAS, ARCH- SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15 Martyr Euthymius, Bishop of Sardis. BISHOP OF MYRA IN LYCIA, THE WONDER- WORKER. Solemn Holyday. Mitigation of Fasting. The Holy Martyr Eleutherius. Our Venerable Solemn Holyday. Epistle, Hebrews 2:11-18; Gospel, Epistle, Hebrews 13:17-21; Gospel, Luke 6:17-23. Father Paul of Latra. Our Holy Father Stephen, Matthew 2:13-23. Archbishop of Surozh. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27 Commons for Bishop-Martyr and 8 Venerable. Epis- Prefestive Day of the Conception of Saint Ann. THE HOLY APOSTLE, FIRST MARTYR AND tle, Ephesians 2:11-13; Gospel, Luke 14:1-11. Our Holy Father Ambrose, Bishop of Milan. ARCHDEACON STEPHEN. Our Venerable Fa- SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16 ther and Confessor Theodore, Brother of Theo- Common for Bishop. Epistle, Titus 1:15-2:10; Gos- phane the Hymnographer. pel, Luke 21:37-22:8. SUNDAY OF THE FOREFATHERS. The Holy Prophet Haggai. Simple Holyday. Epistle, Acts 6:8-7:5.47-60; Gospel, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8 Matthew 21:33-42. Resurrection Tone 4. Epistle, Colossians 3:4-11; Gos- FEAST OF THE MATERNITY (CONCEPTION) pel, Luke 14:16-24. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28 OF THE HOLY ANNA. MONDAY, DECEMBER 17 Post-festive Day of Christmas. The Holy 20,000 Solemn Holyday. Mitigation of the Fast. Common for Martyrs of Nicomedia. The Blessed Martyr Greg- Mother of God. Epistle, Galatians 4:22-31; Gospel, The Holy Prophet Daniel and the Three Holy Chil- ory Khomyshyn, Bishop of Stanislaviv (1945). Luke 8:16-21. dren: Hananiah, Azariah and Mishael. Common for Many Martyrs. Epistle, James 2:1-13; SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9 Mitigation of the Fast. Common for Many Martyrs. Gospel, Mark 12:1-12. Epistle, Hebrews 8:7-13; Gospel, Mark 9:42-10:1. TWENTY-EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTE- SATURDAY, DECEMBER 29 COST. Our Venerable Father Patapius. The Holy TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18 Hannah, Mother of the Prophet Samuel. Saturday after Christmas. The Holy Innocents The Holy Martyr Sebastian and His Companions. killed by Herod in Bethlehem. Our Venerable Fa- Resurrection Tone 3. Common for Venerable. Epistle, Common for Many Martyrs. Epistle, Hebrews 9:8- ther Marcellus, Hegumen of the Akimetes. Colossians 1:12-18; Gospel, Luke 17:12-29. 10.15-23; Gospel, Mark 10:2-12. Commons for Many Martyrs and Venerable. Epistle, MONDAY, DECEMBER 10 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19 1 Timothy 6:11-16; Gospel, Matthew 12:15-21. The Holy Martyrs Menas, Hermogenes and Eu- The Holy Martyr Boniface. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30 graphus. Common for Martyr. Epistle, Hebrews 10:1-18; Gos- SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS. MEMORY OF Common for Many Martyrs. Epistle, Hebrews 3:5- pel, Mark 10:11-16. THE HOLY AND JUST JOSEPH HUSBAND OF 11.17-19; Gospel, Mark 8:11-21. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20 MARY; OF DAVID, PROPHET AND KING; AND OF THE HOLY APOSTLE JAMES, BROTHER Prefestive Day of Christmas. The Holy Martyr Ig- OF THE LORD. The Holy Martyr Anysia. The natius the God-bearer. Venerable Zoticus, Priest and Protector of Or- Common for Martyr. Epistle, Hebrews 10:35-11:7; phans Gospel, Mark 10:17-27. Resurrection Tone 6. Epistle, Galatians 1:11-19; Gos- Eastern Catholic Life FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21 pel, Matthew 2:13-23. Prefestive Day of Christmas. The Holy Martyr Ju- MONDAY, DECEMBER 31 Circulation Department liana of Nicomedia. Otdanije (Leave-taking) of Christmas. Our Vener- 445 Lackawanna Avenue able Mother Melany of Rome. Woodland Park, NJ 07424 Common for Woman Martyr. Epistle, Hebrews 11:8.11-16; Gospel, Mark 10:23-32. Epistle, James 2:14-26; Gospel, Mark 10:46-52. Next Issue: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22 January 1, 2013 Saturday before Christmas. The Holy Great Mar- Copy Deadline: tyr Anastasia. December 14th Common for Woman-Martyr. Epistle, Galatians 3:8- 12; Gospel, Luke 13:18-29. The current issue of the ECL was printed at Evergreen Printing, Bellmawr, NJ and was distributed from the U.S. Post Office via second class Eastern Catholic Life mailing in Bellmawr, NJ. 445 Lackawanna Avenue, Woodland Park NJ 07424