Volume 53 No. 10 December 2009 VOLUME 53 NO

The Word

Volume 53 No. 10 December 2009 VOLUME 53 NO. 10 DECEMBER 2009 contents COVER THE BIRTH OF CHRIST. St. George Cathedral in Pittsburgh

3 EDITORIAL by Rt. Rev. John Abdalah

4 FOCUS NORTH AMERICA by Charles Ajalat

8 MY DAMASCUS SUMMER by Daniel G. Khalil Jr.

12 METROPOLITAN PHILIP HOSTS ANNUAL SEMINARIAN DINNER

16 FROM THE VILLAGE … The Most Reverend 8 17 THE DEPARTMENT OF Metropolitan PHILIP, D.H.L., D.D. Primate CHRISTIAN EDUCATION The Right Reverend ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE Bishop ANTOUN 22 The Right Reverend 24 COMMUNITIES IN ACTION Bishop JOSEPH The Right Reverend 31 BOOK REVIEW: Bishop BASIL MEETING THE INCARNATE GOD The Right Reverend Bishop THOMAS 32 BOOK REVIEW: The Right Reverend PATIENCE WITH GOD Bishop MARK The Right Reverend 34 ORATORICAL FESTIVAL Bishop ALEXANDER Founded in Arabic as Al Kalimat in 1905 by Saint Raphael (Hawaweeny) Founded in English as The WORD in 1957 by Metropolitan ANTONY (Bashir)

Editor in Chief The Rt. Rev. John P. Abdalah, D.Min. Assistant Editor Christopher Humphrey, Ph.D. Editorial Board The Very Rev. Joseph J. Allen, Th.D. Anthony Bashir, Ph.D. The Very Rev. Antony Gabriel, Th.M. The Very Rev. Peter Gillquist Letters to the editor are welcome and should include the author’s full name and Ronald Nicola parish. Submissions for “Communities in Action” must be approved by the local Najib E. Saliba, Ph.D. pastor. Both may be edited for purposes of clarity and space. All submissions, in The Very Rev. Paul Schneirla, M.Div. hard copy, on disk or e-mailed, should be double-spaced for editing purposes.

Design Director Donna Griffin Albert Member ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION: The Associated Church Press U.S.A. and Canada, $20.00 Conciliar Press Foreign Countries, $26.00 Ecumenical News International Single Copies, $3.00 Orthodox Press Service The WORD (USPS626-260) is published monthly, except July and August, by Editorial Office: the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America at 358 Mountain The WORD Road, PO Box 5238; periodicals postage paid at Englewood, New Jersey 07631- 635 Miranda Drive 5238 and at additional mailing offices. Pittsburgh, PA 15241 Postmaster send address changes to: The WORD, 358 Mountain Road, PO Box e-mail: [email protected] 5238, Englewood, NJ 07631-5238 FAX: 1-412-831-5554 ISSN 0043-7964 www.antiochian.org. Subscription Office: Canada Post Publications Agreement No. 40691029 358 Mountain Road Return Canada address to: PO Box 5238 AIM, 7289 Torbram Road, Mississauga, ON L4T 1G8, Canada. Englewood, NJ 07631-5238 editor’s letter

A Christmas Note!

When my altar boys bring me notes dur- I have become so busy lately just doing my ing the Liturgy about selling meat pies or an- job, that I needed a reminder of what it is all for. nouncing8 a meeting, I’m always tempted to Blessed with this reminder, I am more peace- say something like: “We interrupt this work of ful, patient, kind and deliberate. I hope that this God’s people in the Kingdom of Heaven to an- Advent is for you such a reminder, and that, in nounce that the SOYO will be selling hoagies in celebrating this Christmas, we recommit our- the Church hall!” While fear of how my Bishop selves to the Christ who rose from the dead, and Metropolitan would interpret such a stunt who calls us to repentance (re-direction), and keeps me in check, I am willing to write the who made Himself so vulnerable to His own following: “We interrupt your busy schedules, creation in being born as an infant. Christmas shopping, shortened winter days, In this edition of The WORD we call your and December blues for an important message attention to a grass-roots ministry movement from our sponsor, Jesus Christ. The infant Jesus that will allow us to do our Christian work. This Wwho was born of the Virgin Mary is indeed the is also an opportunity to work with Christians Eternal, Only-begotten Son of God, who rose from all of the other Orthodox jurisdictions in from the dead and opened the way of salvation our neighborhood. This is very important in for mankind!” light of the challenge that we be united, initi- This annual announcement of the Church ated by the Mother Patriarchates at the Fourth is yet another attempt to call our attention to Pre-Conciliar Pan-Orthodox Conference this that which is important, so that our days are past June, which took place at the Center of not squandered in vanity. We get so busy doing the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Chambésy, what we do, that we forget why we do it. We Switzerland. The Mother Churches challenged work so that we can have time to bring each the daughter Churches outside the traditional other and ourselves to God, by the Holy Spirit, motherlands to organize themselves into local through Jesus Christ. This is the reason that Churches. If authentic, this challenge is what God has blessed us with senses and life: that we we have been waiting and praying for. Let us may come to know Him and share in His love pray for our bishops and Metropolitan as well for us and for each other. God brought us out of as the hierarchs of all of the other jurisdictions darkness, and everything is revealed to us. The in this land and throughout the world, as we Father chooses for us to be saved and to share work to discern God’s will and to serve Him. His very own life. For this reason, the Word of This could be the greatest Christmas gift of our God emptied Himself of His Divinity and be- generation. came a man: that we can join and be joined with His own Divinity. God became man so that man Archimandrite John Abdalah can become God, that is to say, so that man can share God’s life in Him.

The Word 3 focus

4 The Word A Crucial Ministry for the Orthodox Church

About one in 80 children in the U.S. experi- The beginning of the Orthodox Church’s ences homelessness at least once in a year. It is fuller answer to these questions is FOCUS North America, which is uniting the Orthodox faithful estimated that two million people here go hun- to help those in need domestically, in the United gry to bed any particular night. More than six States and Canada. It is the only national Ortho- dox agency working operationally on pervasive million have become unemployed in the last 12 and persistent issues of poverty in our communi- months. Staggering statistics, to say the least. ties. The incredible work of FOCUS North Ameri- So what can we as Christ’s Church do to help ca and its partners can be seen in the nine-minute video, easily found at www. focusnorthamerica.org. these living icons of the living God, these who are “the least of these our brethren”? FOCUS = Fellowship of Orthodox Christians United to Serve

FOCUS is an acronym for two things. First, it stands for “Fellowship of Orthodox Christians United to Serve.” Second, it stands for many of the areas of activity in which FOCUS North Amer- ica operates and partners with others: Food, Oc- cupation, Clothing, Understanding and Shelter. God has significantly blessed the creation of FOCUS North America. Obtaining 501(c) (3) tax-exempt status as a public charity (rather than a church) ordinarily takes 12 to 18 months, but when the Internal Revenue Service saw FOCUS North America’s request for expedited treatment and how effectively it could serve our brothers and sisters in need in this country, they granted tax-exempt status in seven days. Seven. The Standing Conference of Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA), on the motion of Metropoli- tan Philip, gave FOCUS North America its “warm endorsement for this welcome initiative.” In addition, major social action agencies associated with the Orthodox Church gathered together in January to generate and explore ideas. This year, on behalf of FOCUS North America, 15 grants and a total of almost $50,000 have been

The Word 5 How FOCUS – Kansas City Works Reconciliation Services of FOCUS – Kansas City is a model for the other FOCUS Center locations. It serves 14,000 meals a year with 200 volunteers each month from the local Orthodox Churches. Orthodox Churches in the metropolitan Kansas City area each take one Friday night a month. They purchase food, cook it in their church kitchen or the FOCUS Kansas City kitchen, bring it to the FOCUS Center, serve it and interact personally with the poor and struggling. This personal contact keeps us mindful of the fact that each person we serve is a living icon of Christ Himself – needing God’s love, as expressed through us as brothers and servants. In addition to the meal program, there is a food pantry and clothing closet supplied by the made to such partner agencies. Metropolitan local parishes and community. If someone asks Philip, Fr. Joseph Purpura and Fr. Kevin Scherer for assistance from the food pantry more than have graciously given the Orthodox Youth Out- twice in a six-month period, a case manager will reach (OYO) Program of the Antiochian Orthodox find out more about him or her in order to better Christian Archdiocese to FOCUS North America. help. Maybe he can’t find a job because he doesn’t FOCUS North America is operating the six-year- have a social security card or driver’s license. old program, renaming it “YES” (Youth Equipped Because this is a common reason, one morning to Serve) North America and significantly expand- a week FOCUS Kansas City helps its clients get ing the program (www.YESNorthAmerica.org). the documentation they need. Basic and clinical FOCUS North America and its partners are counseling are also available. serving 425,000 meals a year, at a cost of $1.92 With each FOCUS Center modeling the one a meal, and providing other basic needs to the in Kansas City, there will also be a FOCUS – North homeless and needy in North America. The or- America professional director. And, depending on ganization has already started its City Program the needs and the desires of the local parishes feeding the poor, providing clothing, and offer- and the local advisory council to the FOCUS Cen- ing many other services. And soon, God willing, ter, other services might be added – such as crisis there will be FOCUS North America centers in pregnancy services and work training. fifty major cities and rural areas. Imagine what The YES Program Influences Youth To Do Good a witness the Church can be to its neighbors lo- FOCUS North America’s YES Program in- cally through the national FOCUS Centers that volves junior and senior high students in local either exist or are being created. Imagine FOCUS community service and hands-on social action – Kansas City (existing), FOCUS – Twin Cities projects. In the month of September alone, two and FOCUS – Harlem (both of which, we hope, separate groups of approximately 20 teens have will be up shortly), FOCUS – Omaha (where we said YES to the poor in both Kansas City and are helping Sheltering Tree have HUD housing for Philadelphia. In these locations, they got to know Downs-syndrome children and a related employ- and interact with the homeless, transforming the ment center), FOCUS – Orange County, FOCUS – teens’ own lives while God was at work to trans- Boston and FOCUS – Atlanta, and others. Imagine form the lives of those around them. Additional the witness – internally and externally – of fifty trips are scheduled this year for Flint, Michigan; city programs, each with two hundred monthly Worcester, Massachusetts; and York, Pennsyl- volunteers. Add them together and you get ten vania. Over the past six years, 250 teens have thousand volunteers per month, nationwide. participated in this program in their cities. The activities in the programs next year will double

6 The Word the number of cities and teens involved over this year. Contact Katrina Bitar at katrina@focusna. org and get your youth involved. The Board of Directors and Staff In addition to incredible donors and volunteers, FOCUS North America has also been blessed with an outstanding staff and Board of Directors. Fr. Justin Mathews, an OCA priest, is the Executive Director. Prior to seminary, he was an executive with the Nashville Union Rescue Mission, which housed 1,000 homeless at a time and served 500,000 meals per year with 10,000 volunteers. Katrina Bitar, a recent graduate of St. Vladi- mir’s Seminary, heads up FOCUS North Ameri- ca’s, YES Program. Nick Kasemeotes is the Phi- lanthropy Coordinator. Faith Boldt is the Assistant to Fr. Justin. Jacob Lee and Jonathan Green help alcohol and drugs, she has her own apartment, is this important ministry part-time and a search is working for a major hospital and is back in touch currently underway for a national programs di- with her children. rector for FOCUS North America. She is only one example of the many being The Board of Directors of FOCUS North touched. And as we push forward, tens of thou- America is as diverse as it is outstanding, including sands of lives – one by one – can be affected by members from Greek, Antiochian, OCA, Carpatho- this ministry. Again, I urge you to see more of Russian and Serbian backgrounds. It includes busi- the incredible work that FOCUS North America ness people, priests engaged in social work and and its partners are doing; watch the nine-minute committed Orthodox Christian laity. Similarly, the video that can be found on the organization’s web Advisory Board has outstanding individuals on it, site at www.focusnorthamerica.org. chaired by the former head of the U.S. Agency for Generous founding donors have extended International Development and including promi- their matching-gift challenge of $250,000 to De- nent Orthodox Christians nationwide. cember 31, 2009. Please consider this blessed Serve, Support, Supply Christmas season whether you might join in this FOCUS – North America operates in three challenge to help these living icons – our brothers ways. It serves those in need by providing aid and sisters in need. And if you would like to help, through its programs and partners. It supports please go to the above web site to donate. God Orthodox Christian social action ministries, agen- will indeed bless you. cies, professionals and volunteers. And it supplies Charles Ajalat parishes and others with the education, resources and training needed to initiate social ministries in Charles Ajalat is Chairman of the Board of Direc- tors of FOCUS North America, a founder of International their own communities. Because of this, lives are Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), an initiator of the Or- being transformed. Take, for example, a woman thodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC), and was for 17 years a Chancellor of the Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox who had a job with a major U.S. corporation and Christian Archdiocese of North America. became overwhelmed with all the demands of life. After losing her job, she left her three children, abused alcohol and drugs, became home-homeless and a prostitute, and was stuck in the middle of a life filled with chaos. But then she met God in a unique way through the programs at Recon- ciliation Services FOCUS –Kansas City. And He transformed her life. Now, she’s said goodbye to

The Word 7 My Damascus Summer

From mid-July through mid-August 2009, I was a resident at St. Elias Monastery in the Dweila neighborhood of Damascus, Syria. I was accompanied by a group of nearly twenty young adults from the United States, Canada, France, the United Kingdom, and Australia, participating in a program called Damascus Summer Encounter (www.syriasummer.org) – a one-month or two-month program designed to foster friendship and understanding between young people from western nations and the people of Syria. About half of the group had signed up for the two-month session and had joined the Damascus Summer Encounter in mid-June; the other half had opted to participate only in the one-month program and arrived in Damascus in mid-July. In short, the Damascus Summer Encounter is a comprehensive program offering participants an intense yet personal inter-cultural experience combining cultural seminars, language training, visits to historic sites, and, most importantly, community service.

8 The Word The primary goal of the Damascus Summer both personally and spiritually. Encounter is to encourage meaningful interac- As visitors to Syria, we were sponsored by tion between the participants and the Christian and were guests of the Greek Orthodox Patriarch- and Islamic communities of Syria through per- ate of Antioch and All the East (www.antiochpat. sonal, daily involvement in indispensable proj- org) – the Mother Church of the Self-Ruled Antio- ects targeting both disadvantaged Syrian nation- chian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North als and Iraqi refugees displaced by the ongoing America. The offices of the Patriarchate host, or- conflict in their homeland (as I write these lines, ganize, and support the Damascus Summer En- there are approximately 800,000 Iraqi refugees counter on a daily basis. Specifically, His Grace in Syria). For the participants, however, the Da- Bishop Ghattas (Hazim), the Patriarchal Vicar, mascus Summer Encounter is so much more: was instrumental in organizing the interaction The program provides a once-in-a-lifetime chance between our group and officials from the Syrian to work with, learn about, and truly appreciate government as well as the many non-governmen- the people of Syria and the richness and beauty tal organizations the program helps, including of their culture, their language, their history, and International Orthodox Christian Charities (www. their way of life. Likewise, the Damascus Sum- iocc.org), the local mission of the United Nations mer Encounter offers an opportunity for the par- High Commissioner for Refugees (www.unhcr. ticipants to meet, collaborate with, and befriend org), the Middle East Council of Churches (www. like-minded individuals from other western coun- mec-churches.org), and Mercy Corps (www.mer- tries. Finally, the Damascus Summer Encounter cycorps.org). encourages its participants to grow and develop Daily life for the Damascus Summer En-

The Word 9 ing a video documentary about the Damascus Summer Encounter program itself; and more. I served as an English tutor for members of the clergy at the Patriarchate offices – an amazingly rewarding experience that I will never forget. The opportunity to discuss religion, theology, life, and many other issues with the members of the clergy was a true blessing. For the Damascus Summer Encounter, these volunteer opportunities consti- tute the heart and soul of the program; for the participants, the opportunity to lend their support to these projects was both personally meaningful and spiritually rewarding. After completing our daily volunteer session, we met back at the monastery for another com- munal meal – the meals varied from day to day, counter participant consists of several compo- but included traditional Syrian foods such as hum- nents: each morning begins with a traditional It was the mus, salad, kibbee, bread, and fruit as well as the family-style Syrian breakfast at the monastery. culmination of a occasional pasta dish or stir-fry. Lunchtime was a (Although the facility is called a “monastery” and lifelong dream great opportunity to share experiences from the is owned and operated by the Greek Orthodox Pa- of visiting my morning volunteer session and to relax before grandfather’s triarchate of Antioch and All the East, it is more attending Arabic lessons. We attended from two homeland, meeting accurately described as a dormitory or hostel, to four hours of Arabic lessons Monday through new friends, as each room is outfitted with a telephone, air- worshiping with Thursday. The lessons are provided by the Damas- conditioning, ceiling-fan, mini-refrigerator, satel- fellow Christians cus Berlitz Institute and focus on conversational lite television, a private bathroom with hot-water from across colloquial Arabic (Syrian, of course) – no English the world, and shower and seated toilets, as well as high-speed is spoken during the lessons, which encourages discovering new Internet access.) Breakfast normally included yo- the participant to think in Arabic. Near the con- strengths and gurt, a few different cheeses, olives, bread, hard- talents previously clusion of the Damascus Summer Encounter, boiled eggs, and hot tea. Breakfast was a great hidden within my each participant may take an exam in order to time to finalize plans for the day and also an op- soul. earn a certificate of completion from the Damas- portunity to interact with the other guests at the cus Berlitz Institute. monastery (a perfect chance for the participant After Arabic lessons, we had time to rest and to practice speaking Arabic or to help a fellow have dinner away from the monastery before at- traveler practice speaking English). tending an evening lecture or discussion group at After breakfast, we traveled to our designated the Holy Cross Church in the Christian Quarter of volunteer projects either by micro-bus, by taxi, Damascus. The evening lectures and discussion or on foot. Each participant was attached to a groups were divided between current events and specific volunteer project according to his or her societal topics on one hand and public policy and individual talents, skills, and interests. The volun- government affairs topics on the other. Each eve- teer projects included working at a day camp with ning featured a different topic which permitted Syrian and Iraqi children; tutoring the clergy in our group to interact with Syrians from all levels conversational English at the Patriarchate offices of society, including the local youth, women, in- on the “Street Called Straight” (see Acts 9:11); tellectuals, and government officials. From a so- teaching English at the Damascus Berlitz Institute cietal standpoint, representative topics included or at the Arab International University located an intimate and lively conversation with Syrian just south of Damascus; visiting with elderly Syr- Orthodox Youth where we had the opportunity ians at the St. Gregory Orthodox Institute located to discuss life-issues and current events with just outside the Damascus Old City walls adjacent young Syrian Christians, a fascinating lecture to the very beautiful Holy Cross Church; produc- highlighting the many important archaeological

10 The Word Christian sites located in Syria (including some end we traveled to a different destination away of the most ancient churches in the world), and from the city of Damascus. Some of the trips were a very informative panel discussion focusing on overnight and some were day trips. They included women’s issues in Syrian society with both Mus- an overnight visit to Palmyra, where we watched lim and Christian speakers. These conversations the sun set from the ramparts of the sixteenth- were among the most significant and enlightening century Qala’at ibn Maan castle on a Friday eve- aspects of the entire program. ning and then attended a traditional dinner-party As to public policy and government affairs, at a Bedouin Tent; on the following morning we the evening events included a lecture introducing explored the ruins of the ancient city of Palmyra, Mercy Corps (an international humanitarian non- including the ruins of a former Temple to Ba’al, governmental organization working to improve before returning to Damascus. the lives of Iraqi refugees living in Syria); a meet- We also made a trip to Krak des Chevaliers ing with Mr. Samer Laham to discuss the work – the eleventh-century Crusader Castle, called of the Middle East Council of Churches in Syria Qal’at al-Ḥiṣn in Arabic, which dominates Syria’s and its neighboring countries; a conference with Christian Valley (Wadi Nassara) – followed by a representatives from the United Nations High visit to the St. George Monastery of Homeyra Commissioner for Refugees to discuss the Iraqi (originally built during the sixth century) and refugee crisis in Syria and Jordan; a conversation an overnight stay at the St. Takla (St. Thekla) with Dr. George Jabbour (a member of the Syr- Monastery for women (dating back to the fourth ian parliament and former adviser of the late Syr- century) in the picturesque mountain village of ian President Hafez Assad) concerning political Maaloula. Other excursions included an evening reform and human rights in Syria; a discussion dinner party to celebrate the Feast of the Trans- with Dr. Muhsin Bilal, Syria’s Minister of Informa- figuration at the St. Christopher Monastery (an tion, concerning the portrayal of Syria in the local ancient facility currently being restored under the and international media; and a meeting with Mr. guidance of His Beatitude Patriarch Ignatius IV Yusuf Suwayd, the Syrian Minister of Expatriates, [Hazim]) located near the town of Saidnaya; a concerning the status of Syrians living outside of visit to the resort town of Bloudan to see the Mo- Syria. ses Cave; visits to the predominantly Druze town After each evening’s lecture or discussion of As Suwayda and the nearly perfectly preserved panel, and on certain afternoons, we had plen- second-century Roman theater at Bosra; and vis- ty of free time to explore Damascus – from the its to the University of Kalamoon (the first private charming shops and restaurants lining the laby- university in Syria) and the Cultural Palace in Der rinthine streets within the Old City walls to the Attiyeh village. busy shopping district surrounding the Bab Tou- Overall, my summer travels in Syria were un- ma neighborhood. In addition, we had the op- forgettable. It was the culmination of a lifelong tion of visiting the European-style coffee shops dream of visiting my grandfather’s homeland, and ultra-modern cinema near the National Mu- meeting new friends, worshiping with fellow seum in the New City, among other attractions. Christians from across the world, and discover- Although the primary focus of the Damascus ing new strengths and talents previously hidden Summer Encounter is on service and learning, within my soul. The Damascus Summer Encoun- we were encouraged to shop in the souks, visit ter was an excellent vehicle for fulfilling my goals: restaurants and shops, attend concerts, and stroll the combination of travel, pilgrimage, volunteer through the streets of the Old City to soak in as work, and cultural immersion was fantastic and much of Syria’s culture as possible. can hardly be described. It was a life-changing ex- Our weekends differed greatly from the week- perience, to say the least. There is only one thing day schedule described above. Although Damas- left to say – When can I go back? cus is a very beautiful city and could occupy a traveler for weeks at a time with no risk of bore- Daniel G. Khalil Jr. St. George Cathedral dom, the other regions of Syria are just as fasci- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania nating and deserving of exploration. Each week-

The Word 11 Metropolitan PHILIP hosts Seminarians for Annual Dinner On Tuesday, November 3, His Eminence, of Theology in what has been an annual tradition Metropolitan PHILIP, hosted the Antiochian semi- for more than 40 years. His Eminence presided narians and their wives from St. Vladimir’s Ortho- at a vesper service in the archdiocesan chapel dox Theological Seminary, St. Tikhon’s Orthodox of St. John Chrysostom. The seminarians them- Seminary and Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School selves chanted and served. Following vespers and

12 The Word a group photo, the seminarians were treated to a St. Ephraim of Syria and reminded them of the wonderful home-cooked meal. importance of their time at seminary. He encour- Following dinner, Metropolitan PHILIP be- aged them to use their time wisely. They should gan his remarks by thanking His Grace, Bishop take advantage, he said, of this period in which ANTOUN, who was also present, for overseeing they can spend lots of time praying and reading the seminarians and their needs and requests vis- books, rather than engage in idle talk and gossip. a-vis the Archdiocese. He went on to welcome He contrasted this to the life of a parish priest in and thank the invited clergy who work with and which there is little time to read books when one teach the seminarians in the various schools for is busy tending to the needs of the faithful, visit- their dedication. Addressing the seminarians and ing hospitals, attending meetings and taking care their wives directly, he began with the Prayer of of one’s own family on a daily basis.

The Word 13 The Metropolitan went on to update them on current events in the life of the Archdiocese and world Orthodoxy including the recent visit and meeting he and other SCOBA primates had with His All-Holiness, Patriarch BARTHOLOM- EW, and his representative just a week earlier. The evening ended with a chance for the seminarians to ask questions and for the senior students to meet individu- ally with His Eminence as they prepare for graduation and the beginning of their ministry in the Church.

14 The Word NAC Bible Bowl 2009 What an exciting NAC Bible Bowl we had this year at the Palm Desert, California! This event is sponsored by the Fellowship of St. John the Divine Esther Simbol NAC Bible Bowl Coordinator The 63rd Annual under the leadership of the Festival Co- NAC Bible Bowl – 14th Year ordinator, Esther Simbol. TOPIC: The Gospel of John Diocese of Toledo July 22, 2009 The topic this year was The Gospel Palm Desert, CA and the Midwest of St. John. Teams from seven dioceses Diocesan Winners Parish Life Conference presented. The winners of this year’s Diocese of Ottawa, Eastern Canada and June 30–July 4, 2010 NAC Bible Bowl was the team from the Upstate New York Perrysburg, Ohio Diocese of New York and Washington, St. Elias Church/Syracuse, NY DC, Charleston, Oakland and the Mid- Nicole Baz Hosted by Atlantic, St. George, Little Falls, New Charles Baz The Cathedral of Saint George York, with team members Petra Ayoub, Richie Cotran Toledo, Ohio Reema Arsheed and C. J. Starke. We Diocese of Toledo and the Midwest 419-475-7054 St. Nicholas, Cedarburg, WI congratulate all the other teams that Lydia Newhouse [email protected] participated: a job well done! Abraham Newhouse Special thanks is due Elaine Heider, Nicole Haska an Archdiocese Board Member from Alt-Ana Trepton Johnstown, Pennsylvania, for her gener- Diocese of Miami & Southeast St. George Cathedral/Coral Gables, FL ous cash donation of $1,000.00 to each Jonathan Shportun of the winning team members. Elaine Mathew Shportun has been providing the first place win- George Zammar ners with this amount since it started 1st Place winners fourteen years ago. Everyone who par- Diocese of New York, Washington, DC, ticipated received an Icon of St. John. Charleston, Oakland & the Mid-Atlantic St. George, Little Falls, NY A very special thank-you to Kathy Petra Ayoub Abraham, past NAC President, for serv- Reema Arsheed ing as our MC for the evening, making CJ Starke sure everything was in order for the Bi- Alt: Miranda Bandeli ble Bowl in my absence. Thanks go also Diocese of Worcester & New England St. Mary, Cambridge, MA to Joan Farah, Past-President of the Theodore Smith Please join us for a weekend of NAC, for welcoming everyone to the Gabriel Smith spiritual renewal, worship, and 14th annual Bible Bowl. The dioceses’ Thomas Marge fellowship. presidents, officers, and past officers Diocese of Wichita & Mid-America View the Conference schedule, served as monitors for the evening. St. Elijah, Oklahoma City, OK print forms, and make your Let’s start preparing for next year’s Samuel Wilson room reservation at the Bible Bowl. The topic will be the Letter Zach Crouch Hilton Garden Inn, all through our Sarah Baskerville of James, the two Letters of Peter, and Alt: Nora Haddad Conference web site: www.stgeorgetoledo. the three Letters of John as found in Diocese of Los Angeles & The West the Orthodox Study Bible. St. John the Baptist, Post Falls, Idaho org/2010ParishLifeConference.dsp Isaac Schaefer Joel Schaefer We look forward to hosting Jordin Schaefer our Diocesan Family together again

in Toledo in 2010!The Word 15 From the Village . . .

The snowy woods Prophet witnessed to the Living God on a provided a beautiful Life-Changing backdrop for our Ser- mountain. In the New Testament, our Lord vice of Supplication to preached the most beautiful sermon ever St. Herman of Alaska, Programs Offered at during last year’s preached on a mountain. And when He Middle School Advent Antiochian Village wanted to reveal His glory to His disciples, Retreat at Antiochian He was transfigured on a mountain. On Village Conference Come ye, let us go up to the mountain of the and Retreat Center Ascension Day, He ascended to heaven Lord; and He will teach us His ways, and we (December 2008). with our human nature from a mountain. will walk in His paths. (Isaiah 2:3) Thus, my friends, when you become wea- Before the Antiochian Village was formed, ry, depressed, tired of life, empty, laden with heavy burdens, when you lose direc- “…my friends, Metropolitan PHILIP envisioned a place where when you be- our Orthodox faithful could seek spiritual retreat, tion in life and communion with God, go come weary, de- surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation. His to the mountain, to the Antiochian Village, pressed, tired of vision became a reality when the Archdiocese and you will find rest. life, empty, laden purchased the Antiochian Village property in with heavy bur- 1978. As Metropolitan PHILIP said in his annual – Metropolitan PHILIP, addressing the Arch- dens, when you lose direction in address to the Archdiocesan General Assembly diocesan General Assembly thirty-one years ago life and commu- that year in Houston, Texas: nion with God, go Now in Our Second Year… to the mountain, There is something mysterious about a Since the first group of campers arrived at to the Antiochian mountain which is difficult to describe. the Village thirty years ago, many things haven’t Village, and you changed: the one-of-a-kind experience of Sum- will find rest.” In the Old Testament, Moses received the commandments on a mountain; Elias the mer Camp at Antiochian Village, the beauty of its Continued on Page 21

16 The Word Sharing the Faith News from the department of christian education

Beloved Brothers and Sisters,

During the past few months we were able to train people in three locations: Ft. Lau- derdale in August; San Fran- cisco in September; and Kansas City, Kansas, in October. In two of the three venues we offered the Church School Director Seminar along with Teacher Training, as we want to know if coordi- nating the training of teachers and their directors makes for a more better school year. We will be back in touch with those church schools next September to learn the results. Attendees and Instructors of the Orthodox Institute – Mid-America. One of the best outcomes of all training events is the sharing among participants from various parishes and jurisdictions. We have now arranged for a way to continue this through the Department of Christian Education school year – with Facebook. Make sure to read the article below in this newsletter, and join in Diocesan Coordinators our online community. May the birth of our Lord Please contact the Diocesan Coordinators for updates on training and Savior find you with those you love this holy activities and other events in your region. season! Charleston, Oakland, PA & the East; New York and Washington DC: V. Rev. George Alberts; (203) 798-1771; [email protected] Carole Buleza, Director Toledo and the Midwest: Robert Snyder; (330) 493-4029; [email protected] Los Angeles and the West: Church Highlights Joseph Tershay; (831) 335-8350; [email protected] Eagle River and the Northwest: Find highlights of various churches across the Linda Funk; (306) 934-1695; [email protected] Archdiocese at the Departmental Web site tab, Ottawa and Upstate New York: “Especially for Carole Buleza; (717) 747-5221; [email protected] Priests.” Wichita and Mid-America: Vasiliki Oldziey; (512) 459-6264; [email protected] Worcester and New England: Anna Hughes; (978) 686-3274; [email protected] Miami and the Southeast: Betty Randolph; (864) 639-2204; [email protected]

The Department of Christian Education newsletter is published in the months of September, December, February, and April. The office is staffed from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday. Phone (717) 747-5221. FAX (717) 747-5832. E-mail: [email protected]. Web page: www.antiochian.org/christianeducation The Department gratefully acknowledges the ongoing support of The Order of St. Ignatius which helps fund the programs we offer.

The Word 17 Fall Training Events Orthodox Institute – Mid-America, Kansas City

Fr. Elias Issa contacted the Department four years ago to request teacher training, to take place as soon as the church in Kansas City was built. On October 10 the request was fulfilled, when the parish of St. Basil, in Kansas City, Kansas, hosted the Orthodox Institute – Mid-America. The event was coordinated by Mrs. Sherie Hen- dren, Church School Superintendent, who was pleased to register participants from seven par- The Basic Teacher Training Class ishes in the area. Three training programs were presented: Teacher Training I, Church School Director, and Iconography. Staffing the training sessions were Carole Buleza, Kh. Betty Ran- dolph, and Vasiliki Oldziey, Diocesan Christian Education Coordinator. Those in attendance were given a tour of the new facility, which includes a fellowship area and classrooms. Fr. Elias served as general contrac- tor and a great deal of the work was completed by parishioners with on-the-job training.

Church School Director Seminar

St. Philip Church, Ft. Lauderdale, Hosts Training Event

Enjoying Introduction to Iconography Fr. Nicholas Ozone arranged for coordinated training at his parish for Church School Direc- tors and Teachers. Participants attended from four parishes and enjoyed the wonderful hos- pitality of St. Philip Church. Kh. Betty Randolph trained the Church School Directors, and Mrs. Carole Buleza trained the teachers. Fr. Nicholas was pleased to show all his new iconostasis in the Church, as well as the trophies won at com- petitions at Parish Life Conferences.

18 The Word Orthodox Institute Northern California On September 26, St. Nicholas Cathedral in San Francisco hosted the Orthodox Institute for the region. In addition to Teacher Training I and II, three courses were offered for the special certificate in “Sharing Your Faith.” The speaker for the event was Fr. Daniel Kovalak, who lectures on evangelism at St. Tikhon’s Seminary. We were pleased to have participants from five different Listening to the differences between Protestant and Catholic beliefs parishes and various jurisdictions. His Grace, Bishop Benjamin, came by during the morning and offered his encouraging remarks to the teachers. In addition, Mrs. Eve Tibbs, Coordinator of Religious Education for the Greek Metropolis of San Francisco, participated in the workshops and, at lunch, read a letter from His Grace, Bishop Gerasimos, which stressed the importance of the ministry of teachers. The letter is posted on the departmental web site. His Grace, Bishop Joseph, was not able to join us, but sent his blessings for our gathering. The three hierarchs have encouraged training on a pan-Orthodox level, and are fully supportive of the ministry of Orthodox Christian Participants at the Orthodox Institute North- ern California with Fr. Daniel Kovalak, and train- Education. Their words lift us up, and we are hon- ers Lee Haskins; Myra Kovalak; and Joseph Tershay, ored to join them in the common goal of passing Diocesan Christian Education Coordinator. on the faith.

Fr. Nicholas and parishioners who attended the training. The iconostasis of St. Nicholas Church.

The Word 19 The Department of Christian Education invites you to “Find us on Facebook”

With new technology comes new possibilities. The Upcoming Discussion Topics departmental web site has been invaluable in put- ting resources and information into the hands of teachers and church school directors. Now we are supplementing the web site with Facebook pages Orthodox Christian in order to provide a platform for discussion and Homeschooling sharing. Join the discussions, upload photos, post questions, suggest resources, and meet like-mind- November: Do good contemporary novels ed individuals. for pre-teen boys exist? December: What curricula are you using? January: Plans Already on Facebook? for the Great Fast? Become a fan of one or more of our Christian Education-related Face- book pages shown here. The Direc- Orthodox Christian tor’s blog, with news and notes, is Small Church Schools also a Facebook page now, “Antio- (The Mustard Seed chian Orthodox Department of Christian Educa- Web Site) tion,” or AODCE. November: What are the opportunities for New to Facebook? serving in your community? December: You can begin by visiting our pages. Simply go Share your pageant ideas for 10 or fewer to www.antiochian.org/christianeducation/fa- children. January: New Year’s Resolu- cebookresources for the links. You will see com- tions? ments that the moderator or others have posted, and also questions put out to the “fan club” by those asking for suggestions. Orthodox Christian Parenting When you visit, however, you won’t have access to all the functions. If it looks like something you November: Icon Corners would like to join, you can you register at no December: What can you teach your birth-to-two-year- charge for a personal Facebook page, by enter- old about Orthodox Christianity? January: ing your e-mail address, name, and birth date. You What do preschoolers learn about Ortho- then complete a profile screen, which allows you doxy at home? to open your “home” page. On your home page, you can post brief messages Orthodox on your “wall,” the center column, and receive re- plies and messages from those whom you allow Christian on your friend list. Your registration with Facebook Church School also allows you to join groups and become a fan of Teachers various organizations. For example, those who are dachshund lovers can find a group of like-minded November: Your Classroom Icon Cor- ner December: Share a Christmas Craft people by typing in “dachshund,” in the search January: What do you teach about fasting? box. As a member, you can post your thoughts, upload photos, direct questions to the group, and share your favorite links. Orthodox Christian Church School Directors The Department of Christian Education will use this technology in our mission of supporting church November: Bulletin Boards and Visual Aids school directors, teachers, parents, and all who – Favorites and Needs. December: What’s participate in the work of Orthodox Christian edu- your Christmas pageant? January: How cation. It is our hope to foster cooperation, con- will you put on your Creative Festivals? sistency, and interchange between local parishes (Antiochian CSDs) and the Antiochian Archdiocese, and beyond. 20 The Word Upcoming Orthodox Programs at the Village . . .

For information about these programs, please contact Barli Brown at Antiochian Village, by telephone (724) 238-3677 ext. 425, or via e-mail at [email protected]. December 11–13, 2009 2nd Annual Middle School Advent Retreat: In His Image Speaker: Mother Alexandra, Acting Abbess of Saint Thekla’s Con- vent at Antiochian Village December 27–31, 2009 OCF College Conference* February 2, 2010 Men in Black: Clergy Appreciation Luncheon February 12–14, 2010 Marriage Enrichment Retreat: Sacred Image, Sacred Marriage Led by Presbytera Kerry Pappas, MA, AMFT (same weekend as Winter Camp II for teens; optional Sunday-night lodging avail- Holy Resurrection Cemetery at Antiochian able) Village, on a beautiful winter day March 11–14, 2010 Continued from Page 16 2nd Annual St. Emmelia Orthodox Homeschooling Conference Speakers include Dr. Philip Mamalakis, Seraphima Butler, Barbara mountain setting, the sense of peace that comes Shukin, and artist Niko Chocheli during a stay at the Village. Many people don’t Stay tuned, later in the year: realize, however, that the Village is now in its second year of offering a rich variety of pro- Beginning Byzantine Chanting Workshop grams specially designed to serve our Orthodox Antiochian Women of the East Retreat* faithful. These programs have been created to “Man of the House” Men’s Retreat Ancient Faith Radio and Orthodox Media Conference enrich, to energize, to support, and to encour- 2nd Annual Seniors’ Retreat. age you. Whether you’re interested in Byzantine Chant, in exploring ways to serve God during *Please note: The OCF Conference and Antiochian Women’s your “golden years,” examining your responsi- Retreat are held at the Village but are being organized by bilities and priorities as a godly man, or in any of others. the other topics offered in our programs, there Our participants were asked, “What was the is a fun and life-changing experience awaiting best thing about this weekend?” you at the Antiochian Village. You don’t have to wait for your Church to Some of their answers… plan a trip here (though we welcome that, too!). “The learning, love and fellowship that I experienced here.” Come as an individual, as a family, or go ahead – Senior’s Retreat participant, 2009 and organize a group from your parish and car- pool together to the Village! Our programs are “The breakout session, interaction with others … then the Mu- seum tour, the walk, the bonfire . . . . Mostly, the fellowship with held at the Conference and Retreat Center, just men of like nature and hearts.” down the hill from Camp, where participants – Men’s Retreat participant, 2009 stay in hotel-style lodging rooms, enjoy meals prepared by our Executive Chef Tim – not to “The mixture of class time, worship, and rest. Thank you! . . . The mention desserts by Pastry Chef Darcie! – and best meals I have had at a conference!” – Participant in the Beginning Byzantine Chanting Workshop, attend Church services and share in fellowship 2009 with other Orthodox faithful who come here from all over the country. Participants also have “These retreats are a perfect mix of structure, content, connec- the chance to walk on our Meditation Trail and tion, support, and enjoyment. They have a profound effect on visit our Heritage Museum, Bookstore and Li- participants. My personal experience included. Thank you for producing this and other retreats. They are life changing!” brary, all of which serve as wonderful and one- of-a-kind resources for visitors to the Confer- – Participant in both the Men’s Retreat and the Marriage ence and Retreat Center. Enrichment Retreat of 2009

The Word 21 archdiocese daily office devotions december 2010

Elevated V. Rev. George Alberts

HAGAN, Fr. Mark, to the dignity of Archpriest, 1. COLOSSIANS 2:8-12; LUKE 2:20-21, 40-52 by Bishop MARK at St. Mary, Iron Mountain, CIRCUMCISION Michigan, on October 4, 2009. 2. 1 TIMOTHY 3:14-4:5; MATTHEW 3:1-11 MIKOVICH, Fr. Theodore, to the dignity of 3. 2 TIMOTHY 4:5-8; MARK 1:1-8 Archpriest, by Bishop THOMAS at the Church 4. HEBREWS 11:17-23, 27-31; MARK 9:42-10:1 of St. Paul in Emmaus, Pennsylvania, on Octo- 5. 1 CORINTHIANS 9:19-27; LUKE 3:1-18 ber 18, 2009. (FAST) 6. TITUS 2:11-14, 3:4-7; MATTHEW 3:13-17 Ordained HOLY THEOPHANY MIKHAIL, John (Sherief), to the diaconate by 7. ACTS 19:1-8; JOHN 1:29-34 Bishop MARK at St. George in W. St. Paul on 8. JAMES 2:1-13; MARK 10:23-32 (FAST) September 27, 2009. He is attached to that 9. EPHESIANS 6:10-17; MATTHEW 4:1-11 parish. 10. EPHESIANS 4:7-13; MATTHEW 4:12-17 Received 11. JAMES 2:14-26; MARK 10:46-52 12. JAMES 3:1-10; MARK 11:11-23 TASSOS, Priest Michael, from the Orthodox 13. JAMES 3:11-4:6; MARK 11:23-26 (FAST) Church in America, effective November 1, 14. HEBREWS 7:26-8:2; JOHN 10:9-16 2009. 15. 1 PETER 1:1-2, 10-12, 2:6-10; MARK 12:1-12 Released (FAST) CREMEENS, Fr. Timothy, formerly attached to 16. 1 THESSALONIANS 5:14-23; LUKE 17:3-10 the parish of St. Basil in Poquoson, Virginia, 17. HEBREWS 13:17-21; LUKE 6:17-23 has been released to the Orthodox Church in 18. HEBREWS 13:7-16; MATTHEW 5:14-19 America (OCA). 19. 1 PETER 3:10-22; MARK 12:18-27 20. HEBREWS 13:17-21; LUKE 6:17-23 (FAST) 21. 1 PETER 4:12-5:5; MARK 12:38-44 22. 2 PETER 1:1-10; MARK 13:1-8 (FAST) 23. 2 TIMOTHY 2:11-19; LUKE 18:2-8 24. 2 TIMOTHY 3:10-15; LUKE 18:10-4 25. 1 CORINTHIANS 12:7-11; JOHN 10:9-16 26. 2 PETER 2:9-22; MARK 13:14-23 27. 2 PETER 1:8-2:6; MARK 13:31-14:2 28. 1 JOHN 1:8-2:6; MARK 13:31-14:2 29. 1 JOHN 2:7-17; MARK 14:3-9 30. HEBREWS 13:7-16; MATTHEW 5:14-19 31. 1 CORINTHIANS 6:12-20; LUKE 15:11-32

22 The Word          Metropolitan Philip Presents Ecumenical Patriarch with an Engolpion of Ss. Peter and Paul 

His Eminence, Metropolitan Philip, joined other    American Orthodox Primates in an audience with His    All-Holiness, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, on Tuesday, October 27. Most of the Primates had also  attended the Ninth Annual Orthodox Prayer Service for  the United Nations Community the previous evening. The Event will be held at the Fabulous Present at the audience were Archbishop Demetrios Hotel Omni Mont-Royal of America (Greek Orthodox Archdiocese); Metropolitan ----Mark Your Calendars!!!---- Philip (Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese); Metro- politan Christopher (Serbian Orthodox Archdio- cese); Metropolitan Nicholas (Carpatho-Russian Diocese); Archbishop Nicolae (Romanian Orthodox Archdiocese); Metropolitan Jonah (Orthodox Church in America), Metropolitan Constantine (Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the USA); Bishop Ilia (Albanian Orthodox Diocese) and Archpriest Alexander Abramov (Representation of the Moscow Patriarchate in the USA). Archbishop Demetrios welcomed His All-Holiness on behalf of the Primates. Following the remarks of His All-Holiness, there was an exchange of gifts, including a presentation by the Metropolitan Philip of an engolpion (an episcopal medallion) with the icon of Ss. Peter Saint Emmelia Saint Emmelia and Paul. The Ecumenical Patriarch presented gifts to all Orthodox Orthodox the members, and departed the meeting. Metropolitan Emmanuel of France, who accompanied the Ecumeni- Home-schooling Home-schooling cal Patriarch throughout America, remained to engage in a brief dialogue with the members. (Metropolitan Conference Conference Emmanuel is the Chairman of the already functioning March 11–14, 2010 March 11–14, 2010 Episcopal Assembly of France. From 1967 this was an Inter-Episcopal Committee, and since 1997 a full Epis- Antiochian Village Antiochian Village copal Assembly.) Ligonier, PA Ligonier, PA

www.antiochianvillage.org www.antiochianvillage.org

The Word 23 Communities in action St. Mary’s Church, they are converting to some PTO. They received gift baskets, Brooklyn, NY false religion or joining some individual certificates of recog- cult.” The Orthodox Church and nition, and reserved tables for Sometimes it feels like we are the Catholic Church have dis- them and their families at the not doing a very good job of tinct differences, and until they luncheon. A group certificate spreading the Orthodox faith are resolved, we will not be in will stay on the wall in their to mainstream America, and communion with one another. church school classroom. often it feels like we are los- One of the differences, which is This event was a joint ven- ing ground. Many of our young at the heart of this issue, is the ture of the parish, the pastor, adults are marrying non-Ortho- age of inclusion in the church. the church school, and the PTO, dox, and while this might be an An Orthodox Christian is a full and, God willing, it will serve opportunity to spread the one member of the Church, from the to strengthen the faith of these true faith to people who have day of Baptism, Chrismation, young people in the face of not yet heard it, instead it can and Holy Communion. Catholics many paths that, sadly, lead way serve to dilute the Church. have stages of membership, with from the one true faith. Many of our friends and Communion coming around age On Friday afternoon, Septem- neighbors send their children to 7, and Confirmation around age ber 19, 2008, the Fellowship of Roman Catholic schools, rather 13. This difference, in which we St. John the Divine of St. Mary’s than to the public school sys- are on the right side, by the way, Church, Brooklyn, New York, tem. In and of itself, this is not a contributes to this drain. set sail on a one-and-a-half-hour bad thing (and here in New York What can we do to stop it? In tour of the waters off Sheep- City, it is certainly understand- the long term, we need Ortho- shead Bay and Coney Island. We able), but the problem comes dox schools. This will be much are blessed to have among our when part of the children’s easier to accomplish if we have members the Paris family, which Catholic schooling is used to jurisdictional unity (though that owns a fishing charter boat, and prepare them for First Com- is a topic for another day). In the they graciously hosted us on munion or Confirmation in the short term, are there any other our journey. Catholic Church. These classes ways? The good news is Yes! Our 24 passengers and 2 are a systematic drain on our One such way is what took crewmembers enjoyed a lovely Orthodox ranks. In order to fit place at St. Mary’s Church cruise around the harbor, tak- in with their classmates, and to (Brooklyn, New York) on La- ing in the perfect weather and not be ostracized, the children zarus Saturday. The second- all the sights. The highlight of participate in the sacraments grade church school students the trip was bowing our heads of another faith (First Commu- participated in the Sacrament of to pray on the open sea. Outfit- nion), and later go through a Confession for the first time. Af- ted with a service book and an process (Confirmation) which ter many weeks of training, they aspergillum, our pastor, Fr. Mi- converts them to the Catholic offered to God their confession, chael Ellias, seminarians Dea- Church! with the congregation gathered con Raphael Barberg and Chris- As the body of Christ, we must to support them. Afterwards, topher Eid, altar servers, and do all we can to prevent this we all joined together for the congregants served the outdoor drain, or the drain may be right Divine Liturgy for Lazarus Sat- Blessing of the Waters. When where our Church ends up! God urday, including a children’s Jesus said that whenever two or forbid! It is not enough for us to sermon. The second-graders three are gathered in His name say “Catholics and Orthodox are were then the guests of honor He will be there, trust us folks, similar,” or, “It’s not as though at a luncheon sponsored by the He meant it!

24 The Word Our company, ages 4 through and emphasized that the deacon and catechumens. In this re- 80, enjoyed some simple pot- is the agent of the bishop who gard, Bishop THOMAS empha- luck snacks, and shared stories extends the service of the bish- sized that the deacon should about the good old days of Co- op to the parish to which he has be involved in visiting the sick, ney Island and its world-famous been assigned. Deacon Greg- taking the Eucharist to those boardwalk. A verse or two from ory’s paper reviewed both the unable to come to Divine Ser- the song “Under the Boardwalk” theological and historical basis vices, and assisting the priest could be heard, and some of us of the diaconate in relationship in identifying the sick, the poor, longed for a 5-cent hotdog from to the bishop and the priests. and those in distress. Following Nathan’s. During these sessions, the Great Vespers on Saturday eve- If you are looking for a way to deacons themselves raised ning, Sayidna Thomas and the wrap worship, witness, fellow- many practical questions about deacons enjoyed fellowship dur- ship and service into a quick and the way that the diaconate ing an evening dinner at a local enjoyable afternoon, we highly should function in all parishes, restaurant. recommend this type of cruise. and what the Bishop expects of On Sunday morning, Bishop Until then, go to www.smoac. this ministry. Deacon Gregory’s Thomas and the deacons cele- org to see all the pictures. God paper documented the fact that, brated a Hierarchical Divine Lit- willing, we will be setting sail for many historical reasons both urgy with the faithful of St. El- again next year. ancient and more recent, most lien’s and other Pittsburgh area Orthodox Christians in America communities, including a Byz- St. Elliens, Brownsville, are not used to having deacons antine choir from the Cathedral Pennsylvania as permanent members of the of Saint George, Oakland, led clergy in their parishes. The by Dr. Stephen Esper. Following With the blessing of Sayidna deacons responded in discus- Divine Liturgy, the beloved of St. Thomas, Bishop of the Diocese sion that they themselves were Ellien’s hosted a splendid Dor- of Charleston, Oakland and the responsible for taking some ini- mition Fast luncheon in the par- Mid-Atlantic, several deacons of tiative in living out this ministry ish hall. During the luncheon, the diocese met in retreat August in partnership with the parish Mr. Paul Finley, Director of the 7–9 at Saint Ellien’s Orthodox priest and the faithful. All the Antiochian Village Heritage and Church in Brownsville, Penn- retreat participants were urged Learning Center, spoke about sylvania. The Reverend Deacon by Sayidna to help the faith- the upcoming Saint Thekla’s Glenn and Peggy McIntyre and ful to understand not only how Pilgrimage and reminded every- the parish graciously hosted the deacons serve, but how bishops one of how the Village and the bishop and the deacons. The re- and priests serve as well, in or- Pilgrimage provides all Ortho- treat began with Little Compline der that the entire Church might dox Christians with the impor- Friday evening. On Saturday, the be a servant Church. Sayidna tant opportunity to retreat and deacons prayed the services of reflected at length upon his own withdraw for prayer and spiritu- Matins and the Sixth Hour with years as a deacon and reminded al strengthening, so that we can Sayidna and, in the evening on his deacons that, until quite re- return to the “outside world” that day, Father Fred Pfeil of St. cently, most Orthodox had for- rested and ready for our com- Michael’s in Monnesen joined gotten the ancient expectation mon service and ministry in the the retreat to serve the Vespers. that the deacon should not only Lord. Sayidna and the deacons Interspersed between these serve at the altar, but that serv- are hoping to make this retreat services, the deacons and Bish- ing at the Eucharist naturally a yearly event, and plans are al- op met for two discussion ses- flows outward into the parish: ready being laid for a meeting in sions, one led by His Grace and the deacon should collaborate October, 2010, at another par- another led by Deacon Gregory with the priest, as a genuine ish location in the diocese. Roeber. Both sessions were in “con-celebrant,” in caring for keeping with the theme of the the needs of the parish, the retreat, “The Bishop’s Hands,” faithful, and potential converts

The Word 25 The Brotherhood of Thekla Convent and her guest included those of sandpaper St. Joseph of Damascus Mother Mariamne. and of a junior officer. From the Clergy Retreat The retreat was led by one of perspective of ministry, sand- the Brotherhood’s own – Archi- paper is a means of wearing September 23–25, 2009 mandrite John Abdalah, pastor down the rough edges, in both of St. George Cathedral, Pitts- the priest and his parishioners. With the Pennsylvania forests’ burgh. Bishop Thomas asked The metaphor of the junior of- magnificent change of colors Fr. John to discuss the theme ficer also rung true for many, as well under way, proclaiming the “Being a Priest with a Positive the parish priest must not only glory of creation, the clergy of Attitude.” During the retreat ses- lead his parish, but must also be the Diocese of New York and sions, Fr. John challenged the willing to follow his bishop. All Washington, D.C., and of the Brotherhood to consider three agreed that successful, positive Diocese of Charleston, Oakland questions about their ministries. parish work must not be seen and the Mid-Atlantic gathered The first was What metaphor as the work of the clergy, but at the Village in late September best reflects their ministry? The as the work of God. All agreed, with Bishop THOMAS for their second was What person had too, that Christ’s ministry is a fifth annual clergy retreat. In a significant influence on their work to achieve heavenly things attendance with Sayidna were ministry? And the last was What that are much greater than our- twenty-seven priests and dea- do we want to be remembered selves. cons of the Brotherhood, and for? As we discovered through As might be expected, our Mother Alexandra, Abbess of St. the individual and collective clergy have been mentored by answers to these questions, the a wide variety of people – from way we see our ministries – now parents, to seminary professors, and in the future – profoundly to other priests. There was even affects the attitudes we take to- a surprise or two when secular wards others in our day-to-day figures were mentioned. Those parochial work. examples reminded us that ev- The metaphors used to reflect eryone has the potential to re- our current ministries varied flect God’s love and purpose, greatly – from the ministry as for all have the image and like- an image of Jonah to an image ness of God imprinted on them. of a captain of a ship. Other What the Brotherhood wants to images that many found useful be remembered for can be sum-

26 The Word marized by imagery of service from her ministry, the Church and faithfulness to God. From counts her as a “Protomartyr” a proper perspective of service and “Equal-to-the-Apostles.” In- and faithfulness, we all can ap- deed, what better examples do proach our work joyfully. And we have of God’s ministers who market” singles’ group. We from a spirit of service and a maintained a loving attitude to don’t, however, allow parents desire to be faithful, we can find others, even during unthinkable to bring their children – this is peace in letting God be God. persecutions. May we, O Christ, adult time. Then we are able to appreciate exhibit the same faithfulness The main gathering for the the rare gift of entering into the and love to others as did Saints group is a monthly potluck lives of others, and of seeing the Joseph and Thekla. hosted by members of the group need in our own lives to pray at their homes. We often plan a and draw near to Christ. The 20/40 Fellowship at “spiritual discussion” as part of The final gift of spiritual St. Elijah Church this fellowship meeting – after nourishment, the one that most eating and socializing we gather When the 20/40 Fellowship equipped the Brotherhood to everyone for a 30-minute dis- began at St. Elijah Church, return to our home parishes cussion of a spiritual topic rel- Oklahoma City, none of us could renewed, was sharing in the evant to the age group. There have imagined how far it would Eucharistic feast with Bishop also is occasionally some group go. What a joy it has been to THOMAS during divine liturgies business that is brought up and see the 20/40 concept catch on celebrated during the retreat. discussed. throughout the Archdiocese! It The retreat also included quiet We try to keep the 20/40 Fel- is a simple and flexible idea for time for reflection, as well as lowship as informal as possible. bringing together young adults an open dialogue with Bishop We don’t have officers, minutes, in the parish. By God’s grace it THOMAS. Sayidna encouraged budgets, Robert’s Rules, and so has been successful as a grass- the clergy to continue their good forth. Our very capable co-lead- roots movement – initiated, work in ministering to all whom ers (Allison Wallace and Malek organized and led by young God has entrusted to them. Say- Massad) were appointed last adults. idna instructed the Brotherhood October to succeed our found- When I came to St. Elijah to “turn everything over to God ing group leader, Nicole Thom- in the fall of 2006, our Senior and to turn everything over to as. A “20/40 Task Force” assists Priest V. Rev. Fr. Constantine each other.” He asked that we them in planning and organizing Nasr asked me to meet with might also pray for one another. the group’s activities. The Task some young adults who were As we departed, Bishop Force is open to whoever wants interested in starting a church THOMAS challenged the Broth- to be involved in its work – typi- group geared to their (and my) erhood to emulate the example cally six or seven people. generation. We announced an of both the Brotherhood’s pa- In addition to the monthly fel- organizational meeting, which tron saint, St. Joseph of Damas- lowship gathering, we try to do brought together about 25–30 cus, and St. Thekla, the patron a 20/40 service project once a young adults from the parish saint of our new convent at the quarter. We’ve worked at the and resulted in the ministry that Village. We were reminded of Food Bank and Habitat for Hu- has flourished ever since. St. Joseph’s insistent dedication manity, rolled baklawa for our “20/40” refers to our target to the Orthodox faithful, and as parish Food Festival, adopted a age group: 21-40ish. The maxi- well as to the sacramental life of needy family at Christmas, and mum age is a little open-ended the Church. St. Thekla provides so on. We try to organize quar- so that we don’t have to kick us with an example of faithful- terly social events, too. We have anyone out. We specifically ness during times of persecu- an annual picnic after Pascha. advertise that the group is for tion and torture. Because of her We’ve also had an ice-skating “singles and couples,” so that many sufferings for the faith and night. we don’t end up with a “meat- the many conversions resulting It’s exciting to see the 20/40

The Word 27 concept spread outside of Okla- Thirteen similar institutions in homa City. We now know of Furthering “The Fruits of the Worcester area received 20/40 Fellowships in Wichita, Orthodox Unity” this invitation as well. From the Kansas; West Roxbury, Mas- Worcester, Massachusetts thirteen, three were chosen for sachusetts; Livonia, Michigan; an interview; Holy Trinity was In 1995 the Council of East- Brooklyn, New York; Cleveland, among them. When the search ern Orthodox Churches of Ohio; and Dallas, Texas. Each by Washburn House was com- Central Massachusetts, consist- parish adapts the concept to its pleted, it informed Holy Trinity ing of twelve area churches in own needs, making this minis- that it had been chosen. four jurisdictions (Antiochian, try a flexible fit for a variety of From the merger, Holy Trinity Greek, Romanian, and Orthodox situations. was given the following: Church in America) commis- This year our diocese had – the Washburn House (ap- sioned the design and construc- its first ever “20/40 Track” at praised value over 2 million dol- tion of the only pan-Orthodox our Parish Life Conference in lars); nursing and rehabilitation cen- Wichita, Kansas. We planned a – $500,000 in cash to oper- ter of its kind in the U.S. workshop, a service project and ate the building while deciding We celebrated our fourteenth several social events for young usage; year of operation last August. adults, who also participated in – a van (with hydraulic lift); The Council decided to enhance the intergenerational activities and the entry of the center with an of the PLC. – an endowment fund (cur- icon of the Holy Trinity, and Last year the 20/40 concept rent value: $9,000,000). commissioned iconographer went international. The NAC The only conditions for Holy Dhimitri Cika, an Albanian im- Fellowship of St. John the Di- Trinity were that four Washburn migrant, to write it. It was in- vine adopted “20/40 Ministries” Board members were to be add- stalled on September 30 and as the name of its young adult ed to the Holy Trinity Board and October 1. The icon is painted focus, which plans conferences the investment account was to on a five-eighths-inch concrete for this age group at the archdi- be preserved as an endowment board with a special coating to ocesan level. fund. protect it from the elements. I have been overwhelmed by The most current plan is to In the Spring of 2008 the the success of the 20/40 Fel- expand the newly established Board of Directors of Holy Trin- lowship. It has grown because hospice program into the new ity received a letter from the it responds to our young adults’ facility as the Ichabod Wash- Board of Directors of Washburn deep need for a place of their burn Hospice Residence – Holy House. Washburn House was own in our parishes. Please Trinity Hospice at Washburn built in 1869 by industrialist and feel free to contact me with any House. philanthropist Ichabod Wash- questions or suggestions about burn to house indigent women. this ministry: The letter was an invitation to Rev. Fr. Jeremy Davis DOWAMA Fellowship Spiritual Advisor receive Washburn House and its 405-755-7804 assets in a merger. The purpose [email protected] of this offer was to perpetuate (Logo courtesy of Fr. James Shadid; the mission of Washburn House. Photos courtesy of Nicole Thomas)

28 The Word St. George, Allentown PA Saturday, September 12, Bish- Khourhiya Grace Aswad welcomes Bishop Thomas op THOMAS presided over Ves- Retires pers and then met with the Teen “O Lord, save thy people, Soyo over pizza to hear and an- After 60 years of unwavering, and bless thine inheritance, swer many, many questions. He passionate service, Khourhiya and to thy faithful Kings related very well to the youth of Grace Aswad retires as choir di- grant victory of their ene- our parish and answered all of rector of St. George Antiochian mies, their questions in a very hon- Orthodox Church in Niagara and by the Power of Thy est and down to earth way. On Falls, New York. Cross, Protect all those who Sunday we celebrated the Hi- When her parents, Bishara and follow Thee.” erarchical Divine Liturgy at St. Najla, chose the name “Grace,” -Troparia Tone 1: Elevation George and were able to Vener- little did they realize how ap- of the Holy Cross ate and Honor the Precious and propriate it was. It was by the Life-Giving Cross. Everyone left grace and love of God that she St. George, Allentown, Penn- church with blessed flowers and would blossom as one of his sylvania, lovingly welcomed His then joined together downstairs committed and faithful workers Grace, Bishop THOMAS on Sep- for a luncheon prepared by our in the vineyard of the Church. tember 10–14, 2009. Bishop Ladies Altar Society. The Ladies Starting in 1942, at 8 years of THOMAS celebrated the Feast did a beautiful job and fed our age, Grace began singing in the of the Exaltation of the Holy clergy and parishioners to our church choir. Six years later she Cross with us, and it was a true great delight! was its director, though she had blessing. During dinner with St. Monday morning, we cele- no formal training. In February, George’s Parish Council the eve- brated the Divine Liturgy for the 1957, she married Richard As- ning of Friday, September 11, Exaltation of the Holy Cross. In wad, who would be ordained a he and the Council discussed his sermons Sunday and Mon- priest in 1965 (Very Rev. Father a number of issues. Bishop day, Bishop THOMAS talked George Aswad). Together, they THOMAS expressed to the Par- with all of us about the Cross went on to have five daughters, ish Council how happy he was to and what it means for us as Or- a great task for any mother. In be with us and pleased with how thodox Christians. He spoke of spite of her domestic responsi- the parish is doing. He was also the crosses that we all carry, bility and all the time and love very excited that St. George, Al- and encouraged us to take it she put into her daughters’ lentown, is hosting the Eastern up and follow Christ, no matter growth, Grace continued direct- Region Parish Life Conference how difficult it may be. He also ing before and after each of her in 2010 and revealed to us that taught us the story and miracle babies. His Eminence, Metropolitan of this special feast. May God Her commitment and list of PHILIP, will also be present. To grant Bishop THOMAS many accomplishments are truly im- end the evening, His Grace gave years, and may Christ our True pressive. Grace was a Sunday spiritual insights and talked God “protect all those who fol- School Teacher, the first presi- about miracles that have taken low Him.” dent of the Antiochian Woman’s place at different monasteries Can-AM Region, and the Vice throughout the world. President of the National Antio-

The Word 29 chian Woman of North America. Grace’s musical accomplishments include directing the choir at St. George’s Orthodox Church for 60 years; directing the Choir Jack G. Shaheen 2010 of the Orthodox Churches on Mass Communications Scholarships the Niagara Frontier, the Ca- nadian American Conference Choirs, and the Archdiocese 13th Consecutive Year Convention Choirs; becoming (Join the 39 previous winners!) a founding member of the Sa- Amount: $1,000.00 cred Music Institute; and serving as a Board Member of the Purpose: To honor Arab-American students who excel in Archdiocese Music Department. media studies She also sang, solo or duet, in many weddings, including those Eligibility: of her daughters. To honor her • College students classified as juniors or seniors, commitment and participation or enrolled in graduate school for the 2010-2011 aca- in the church, she received both demic year “The Antonian Gold Medal of • Majoring in journalism, radio, television, and/or film Merit” and “The Antonian Silver • A minimum 3.0 GPA Medal of Merit.” • A U.S. citizen of Arab heritage Grace’s great love for God, church, family, and brothers Submissions: Applicants, please submit the following items and sisters in Christ is apparent to the ADC Research Institute. not only from the many honors shown her, but in her intimate, • A one-page statement explaining your goals and why you vivacious face-to-face conver- merit the scholarship, and stating that you are a U.S. citi- sation. She has touched many zen of Arab heritage; lives and continues to reach out • Two original signed letters of recommendation from pro- even after her retirement. fessors of mass communications; Though no longer at the helm, • Copies of your articles, videos, films, and so forth (these Grace now enjoys chanting and items will not be returned to you); singing in the choir she knows • Official academic transcripts, including your GPA; and and loves so much, a joyful part • Your permanent home address, e-mail address, phone of the whole. She also enjoys number, and your phone number during the school year, if visiting with her loving family, different. including her ten grandchildren and two great grand children. Deadline: April 1, 2010 (Note: Incomplete or late applica- May God grant you many years, tions will not be accepted.) Khourhiya Grace Aswad. Submit all materials to ADC Research Institute Attn: Dr. Nawar Shora 1732 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20007 Telephone: 202-244-2990

30 The Word Book Review

Lord, What shall I offer you at your Incar- expression of the encounter with Christ who lives nation in return for your infinite love… in our depths, which “we must experience like Lord, You have been knocking on my door the child and the poet.” This meditation examines for many years, but I never dared let you in what it means to come before the Lord in child- because my garment is not white as snow … like and poetic ways. The reflection ties the two Lord, the only thing I can offer you at your words together by recalling that “a child is a poet Incarnation is myself … who has not been taught.” “A poet is a child who has not been spoiled.” Throughout the rest of this Meditation on the Incarnation by meditation we are offered reflections on how “we Metropolitan PHILIP must be children and poets if we would experience Christ incarnate in our lives ….” These excerpts from a poem by Metropolitan In the second collection of reflections, -en PHILIP on the Incarnation of Christ begin a series titled “The Mystery of Fidelity,” the human con- of reflective meditations written when the Metro- nection and the call to faithfulness to the other politan and Father Joseph Allen came to work to- – to our fellow human beings, our earth, our com- gether, as the work’s Preface states, “to capture munity, and ultimately to God – leads us to our and communicate the great theological concepts response to God and to his call to search for him of the Christian East in a mode that every person, and to find him as he awaits us. The meditations rather than only theologians, can understand.” in this collection show the inter-connectedness of These meditations are contained in a new two- all of God’s work – in our lives, in our brothers part book entitled Meeting the Incarnate God: and sisters, in our world, and in our community. From the Human Depths to the Mystery of Fi- In the opening meditation entitled “Violence,” the delity, published in 2009 by Holy Cross Ortho- challenge is offered to the person of faith “to do dox Press. violence to his own heart if he will become faith- The meditations found in this work focus on ful to God and his fellow.” This challenging re- the gift of God’s presence and action in our lives, flection focuses on the need to endure separation, and on our need to draw near to God and to re- fear, lack of comfort, abandonment, betrayal, and spond to Him. The first half of the collected re- freely chosen poverty to become faithful to God flections focus on the inner depths of the human and our fellowman. In all of this we come to ex- person as the potential and the way to come to perience the mystery of the truth that, as the fi- meet the living God who dwells within us. God nal reflection notes, “fidelity to God is one such has created each human being in his grace and by response to his love.” “He indeed waits for us to his grace, so that as we surrender to God within return, to be healed …. Entering the mystery of we encounter his indwelling presence. This sur- fidelity, we discover God.” render requires an emptying; as one of the medi- This book is a work that comes out of reflec- tations notes, “Jesus said, ‘Sell it’; if you would tion and requires of the reader a commitment of follow me, sell it. One resists selling it when he quiet reflection. It is a work that should be read in is enslaved to it ….” In the meditations entitled silent, soul-filled moments, to allow the depths of “Surrender and Disclosure” and “Emptiness and the words of each meditation to touch the heart Unity,” the authors present the difficulty of this and to fill the mind with an ever greater love for self-surrender and give a challenging call to its the Lord who came to us in his Incarnation in the fulfillment in the acceptance of the other, and to flesh. receiving the gift of life in Christ. In the concluding meditation of the first half Very Rev. Fr. David Hester, pastor of St. Mary Antio- chian Orthodox Church, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and of the work, entitled “Jesus,” there is a powerful Adjunct Associate Professor of Patrology and Church History at St. Tikhon’s Russian Orthodox Seminary

The Word 31 A Review of Patience with God: Faith for People Who Don’t Like Religion (or Atheism)

by Frank Schaeffer

In his excellent autobiography, Crazy for God, In Part One of his new book Schaeffer de- Frank Schaeffer provided us with an intimate scribes the arrogance, hatefulness and simple- mindedness of fundamentalism in two forms: look at his life, from childhood to his work as that of the New Atheism represented by Daw- one of the founders of the Christian Right, and son, Hitchens and Dennett, and that of religious fundamentalism, particularly in the evangelical to his disillusioned departure from that move- incarnation with which he is so familiar, repre- ment and his joining the Orthodox Church. In sented by well-known adherents such as Jerry his new book, Patience with God: Faith for Peo- Falwell, Pat Robertson and Rick Warren. That the two sides demonize each other is not evidence of ple Who Don’t Like Religion (or Atheism), the difference, we learn, but of their striking simi- story continues, but not as mere biography. In larities. Schaeffer’s critique, as we have come to expect, is biting, incisive, unrelenting and often Part One of Patience with God, Schaeffer takes humorous. He speaks as a man who has been in on fundamentalism as it appears in both New the belly of the beast and has lived to tell about Atheism and in American evangelical Chris- it. He rightly identifies the New Atheists as blood- brothers of their religious targets. In the process tianity, but he goes even further. After deftly he decries the descent of politics into the mire of demonstrating that the two extremes are actu- the same kind of extremism, either of the right or ally strange bedfellows, Schaeffer shows how the left, arguing persuasively for the separation of Church and state. Schaeffer’s recent appearances they combine to offer a false choice – either us on Huffington Post and MSNBC have placed him or them. There are alternatives to extremism. squarely in public view as a valued and original commentator on the state of American politics Part Two is a moving portrayal of the alterna- and an avowed nemesis of the so-called Chris- tive Frank Schaeffer has found and how it has tian Right and its step-child, the religion-haunted played out thus far in his life. GOP. There is much in Schaeffer’s new book that will challenge his Orthodox readers and most certainly rile a number of them. His honesty is both re- freshing and unnerving. Schaeffer attempts to pull back the curtain to expose what is really there – the “shadow self” behind the hateful rhetoric. Schaef- fer does not mince words or pull back from engag-

32 The Word stuff of true faith. To some readers the two parts of Patience with God may seem incongruous. I see the con- nection: fundamentalism makes authentic faith impossible. Schaeffer has navigated the difficult passage from close-minded dogmatism to child- like awe. In doing so he has achieved a modicum of peace in his farmhouse on the wetlands near Newburyport. I am most grateful that he has chosen to share with us where he has been, where he is now and how he got here. That Schaeffer has discovered the Gospel truth of God’s omnipres- ence, unconditional love and compassion, which is the hallmark of Orthodox spirituality, should make all of us pause and ask ourselves, “What am I doing with that?” I hope that Orthodox Christians will approach this important book with an open mind. Agree or disagree, Pa- tience with God presents an alternative that we would do well to take note of. It is an Or- ing thodox Christian appeal for sanity, compassion, and exposing tolerance and authentic spirituality. what he sees as the simple-minded hypocrisy and arrogance with which so many V. Rev. Antony Hughes, St. Mary Orthodox Church, have become so comfortable. He calls for us to Cambridge, Massachusetts open our eyes and stop mutilating the world to fit our preconceptions. That we may find ourselves specimens under the scrutiny of his microscope is a call for either reaction or reflection. Reac- tion is always an unwise choice, but readers must d choose for themselves. Whatever one may think this is sure: Schaeffer presents the dilemma clear- ly and fearlessly and should not be ignored. If it makes us uncomfortable, so be it. Thankfully, Schaeffer has shed the fundamen- Metropolitan PHILIP talism that often infects converts to the Orthodox faith. It is no more attractive in peasant clothing sincerely thanks all those and long beards than in pompadours, business suits and lab coats. It becomes evident in Part who extended Two that he has emerged as a thoughtful Ortho- dox Christian informed by the deep heart of the their greetings to him Church, that is, its apophatic and mystical theol- on the occasion of ogy. Part Two of Patience with God is a contem- plative and often immensely moving account of a his name’s day. man who has discovered the truth prayed at the beginning of nearly every Orthodox service: the Holy Spirit “is in all places, filling all things.” The act of living as fully as possible in each precious moment of life with all that it brings has become a for Schaeffer (as for mystics in all traditions) the

The Word 33 Oratorical Festival Colette Houssan Diocese of Worcester and New England

Your Eminence, Reverend Clergy, Brothers and At many times in our life, we will be challenged Sisters in Christ, Christ is in our midst! to bear fruit, by performing our own good works “Be mindful, O Lord, of those who bear fruit and to succeed in accomplishing a task. For some and do good works in thy holy Churches, and who this has happened many times, yet for others this remember the poor.” We hear these words read in is an experience yet to be accomplished. Person- the Anaphoras of Saints John Chrysostom and Ba- ally, the experience that most affected my spiritual sil the Great, but what is the true meaning behind life occurred when I was in the sixth grade. At the these words? As Orthodox Christians we are called time, I attended a parochial school and was sitting in to bear fruit and assist those in need through acts class when Sister Jeanne, one of the nuns from the of charity and by reflecting the love God offers to neighboring convent, came for her usual visit. We us. The wonderful people who commit themselves asked her how she was doing and about the people to volunteer work and uphold their responsibility to she recently had encountered. She told us about a spread Christ’s message with cheer and love, rep- woman with three children who was going to get her resent the community of which we are called to be- phone disconnected because she could not pay for come members. it. The woman also had no gas for her car and her Bearing fruit is an act of humility that is defined commute to work was impossible. I felt upset for by the actions and behaviors that characterize who this woman because a car and a telephone have be- we are and what we stand for. To an Orthodox Chris- come necessities of life. I asked my teacher if, as a tian it is symbolic of how we should live our lives class, we could help this woman. I asked everyone in order to strengthen our relationship with Christ in the class to make a donation from their allow- by becoming more like our Heavenly Father. When ance so we could raise money to pay the phone bill. we uphold the responsibility of our creation in the With a class of twenty-five people bringing in about image and likeness of God, we — and the whole 2 dollars each, we expected to raise $50.00, but in Church — benefit from the fruits that are produced. the end we raised $120.00. We were able to pay the The fruits that are received impact young people, phone bill and buy gas for the woman’s car. She was like me, and our families. For example, attending so grateful for our help that she sent us three thank- church school provides an exceptional atmosphere you cards. After hearing these cards read in class for learning about the Orthodox Faith, through in- I felt so overjoyed and thankful for the teamwork struction and example. The volunteers, who week that helped someone in need. After this experience, after week continue to educate the younger genera- anytime I have the opportunity, I donate money to tions about their Church, are a great example of causes that I know are beneficial. Even more impor- implementing good works to the benefit of others. tantly, I pray for those who require assistance that The donation of time and knowledge help to create they seek help and receive it. As a result, I began to a closer community. Within this community we sup- pray more and thank God for the blessings I receive port each other emotionally, and in some instances as an individual and as part of a family. I also thank financially. For example, in our parish, students are God for the gifts of speech, knowledge of right and provided with scholarships for college and savings wrong, care, love, and emotional feelings that He bonds for the future at the end of every church has bestowed on me. In a small, but powerful way, I school year. These are provided through generous was able to minister to another child of the Lord by donations of church members. As you can see, the responding to what we are all called to do. time and talents offered by others provides an ex- As Orthodox Christians our mission to bear ample of bearing fruit which reinforces the love and fruit encircles us during every part of every day. As a charity of the Orthodox Faith. teen, I feel that I can influence my peers with my ac-

34 The Word tions so that they might do good works also. In our we must have our hearts open to others, especially daily lives we seek knowledge, advice, and examples those in need, remembering that Christ defines ev- from our surroundings. Those younger than me, like eryone as having needs. In a manner of speaking, my siblings, may look up to me as a role model for we are all the “least of the brethren” because we all them. As a teen I can become an influence by model- need to be cared for and showed love, the same love ing Christ’s example, helping others experience the Christ bestowed on us when He died for our sins. wonderful feeling of aiding those less fortunate than From the teachings of Christ, the Church Fathers themselves. I can persuade them to get involved by encourage us to help one another. Saint Paul says, portraying a model for assisting others. In other “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, words, I should live my life as Jesus says when He and whoever sows generously will also reap gener- tells us to “Let your light so shine before men, that ously. Each man should give what he has decided they may see your good works and give glory to your in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under com- Father who is in Heaven” (Matthew 5:16). pulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God There are many ways to define the word “poor.” is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in Personally, I understand the word to mean being less all things at all times, having all that you need, you fortunate. This is usually thought of in the area of will abound in every good work” (2 Cor. 9:6-8). St. wealth, but it can also be found in a number of other John Chrysostom explains this by saying “keeping categories. One of these categories can be “lack of the harvest in mind, we might feel that we receive faith.” One who is poor lacks the full necessities of more than we give” (Homilies on Corinthians). This a particular society. If that society happens to be the means that those who give in any form will be re- church community, then that person can be lacking warded when God determines that it is most benefi- the experience of God’s Love and His many Gifts. cial to them. As Orthodox Christians, we pray that If they do not believe that God offers these Gifts, we will be rewarded with entrance into the Kingdom then they are spiritually poor. They do not realize of God. We should now take these sayings of Christ, that their true call is to follow Christ’s example by Saint Paul and St. John Chrysostom and apply them spreading His Good News through joy, peace, and to our daily lives. If we seek to live our lives think- love. ing about God and others rather than ourselves then Helping the ones considered “poor” brings us we are answering His call. Once we understand this, closer to God because we show our loyalty to Him we can minister to others and encourage them to by being stewards of His creation. When we do good answer their own call as children of God. works, like volunteering at soup kitchens or walking Understanding the call is where we can begin to raise money for cancer research, we are making to improve our life in Christ. Personally, I take what strides to improve the lives of those less fortunate I read in the Bible and experience in the liturgy as than ourselves. As Christians doing this we show re- guides to becoming a better Orthodox Christian. spect for those who are created in the image of God. Along with the written instructions, I listen to the Christ even said in Matthew 25:40, “And the King advice given by parents, teachers, and clergy and will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, as you did it to use it in my daily life to minister to others. I hope one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to that the understanding gained from learning the me.” By seeing Christ in others, and acting on what true meaning of bearing fruit and helping the poor we see, we further our relationship with Him. We inspires other faithful people to do more for their know that when we do more for our Lord, with each communities and strengthen their relationships with step we are united more with Him. This union with God. In the 7th chapter of St. Matthew’s Gospel, Je- Christ strengthens us to bear more fruit, do more sus twice uses the phrase “you will know them by good works, and remember the poor always. their fruit.” My final prayer for today is that we will In John 21, after Christ rose from the dead, He all be recognized as His children and that our Lord asked Peter to feed His lambs, tend His sheep, and will be mindful of us as “those who bear fruit and do feed His sheep, and asks Peter if he truly loved Him. good works in thy holy Churches, and who remem- Peter says yes and Christ shows Peter that words, to- ber the poor.” gether with actions, are needed to show love. These same questions are also asked of us. To follow Christ

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