Official Publication of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia VOL. 75 - No. 23 DECEMBER 21, 2014 ENGLISH VERSION PASTORAL MESSAGE OF THE UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC HIERARCHY OF THE U.S.A. TO OUR CLERGY, HIEROMONKS AND BROTHERS, RELIGIOUS SISTERS, SEMINARIANS AND BELOVED FAITHFUL no bounds, thugs for CHRIST IS BORN! whom people are merely tools to be used and discarded, for whom life “Glory to God in the is of no value. highest, and peace [to men of good will/to The ancient song was first those on whom His favor heard in a world which, rests].” (Luke 2: 14) although separated from us by two millennia and by a wide technological Our preparations for the chasm, was really not great feast of the Nativity so different in terms of of Our Lord, God, and human nature. What was Savior Jesus Christ bring that world? Saint Paul to mind the song of the tells the Galatians “When angels at Bethlehem. It is the fullness of time had good for us to meditate come, God sent His Son, upon them during this born of a woman, born season, and perhaps under the law, to ransom even to let this meditation those under the law, so influence our New Year’s that we might receive resolution as we prepare there seems to be so man”, God’s plan for us adoption. (4: 4-5)” Does also for the arrival of little peace these days: is different from the one this mean that everything 2015. It is especially we need to be reminded inflicted upon the world was perfect? Far from important to remember that, despite the by leaders whose cold, it! Some romantics like the angelic promise of headlines which scream calculating ambition and peace this year since of “man’s inhumanity to insatiable greed know (continued on next page)

Highlights inside this issue:

New Mosaics for Cathedral - pg. 11 Christmas Service Schedules - pg. 20 PASTORAL MESSAGE OF THE UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC HIERARCHY OF THE U.S.A. TO OUR CLERGY, HIEROMONKS AND BROTHERS, RELIGIOUS SISTERS, SEMINARIANS AND BELOVED FAITHFUL (continued from previous page)

to point out that Jesus step paradigm, people contempt from the come and say: was born during what with addictions are often arrogant. was referred to as the not ready to change “Come, let us go up to Pax Romana – that is, their lives until they have It is to such people, the LORD’s mountain, the “Roman Peace”. “hit bottom” - in other seeking to be ransomed to the house of the Outwardly, it may have words, until their life has from the violence and God of Jacob, looked as though peace gotten so bad that there disorder of their world, reigned throughout is no way to go but up. that the angels sang of That he may instruct the Roman world, but Perhaps this was the peace. us in his ways, and that peace was only realization which was we may walk in his maintained by Roman dawning on the people Nothing much has paths.” state-sponsored terror at that time. Can’t you changed in two thousand tactics – tactics like hear them moaning as years: if anything, our For from Zion shall go the crucifixion to which they pray to God for technology has made forth instruction, and Jesus would eventually relief in the words of us more effective at the word of the LORD be sentenced since he Psalm 123? inflicting murder and from Jerusalem. was considered a threat mayhem. Nonetheless, to that very same Pax we dare bravely to join He shall judge Romana. Not to be To you I raise my eyes, our voices in the angels’ between the nations, outdone by the cruelty to you enthroned in song, stubbornly refusing and set terms for of the Romans, the petty heaven. to give up on the promise many peoples. monarch Herod resorted of peace. As we do so, to infanticide when faced Yes, like the eyes of we must remember that They shall beat their servants on the hand with the same newborn peace is not a gift which, swords into plowshares of their masters, threat to his power, like the snow, comes and their spears into ordering the murder of down from heaven to pruning hooks; every male child under Like the eyes of a refresh the earth and maid on the hand of the age of two. Such hide the scars we have One nation shall her mistress, was the Pax Romana; inflicted. Rather, it is our not raise the sword it is no wonder that the task, our vocation. As So our eyes are on the against another, nor people seethed under Pope Paul VI reminds us, LORD our God, till we shall they train for war the conqueror’s boot! “If you want peace, work are shown favor. again. The Romans and their for justice.” The prophet puppets had reason to Isaiah (2: 3-5; 11: 6- Show us favor, LORD, House of Jacob, fear rebellion. 9) provides just such a show us favor, for come, let us walk in glorious vision of people we have our fill of the light of the LORD! striving together for the So what about “the contempt. fullness of time”? A peace which God intends ... possible answer can be Our souls are more for the world, and then found in any of the twelve- than sated with enjoying the fruits of their Then the wolf shall be step programs such as mockery from the labors: a guest of the lamb, Alcoholics Anonymous. insolent, with According to the twelve- Many peoples shall (continued on next page) DECEMBER 21, 2014 2 PASTORAL MESSAGE OF THE UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC HIERARCHY OF THE U.S.A. TO OUR CLERGY, HIEROMONKS AND BROTHERS, RELIGIOUS SISTERS, SEMINARIANS AND BELOVED FAITHFUL

(continued from previous page)

and the leopard shall shall graze, together They shall not harm the newborn Prince of lie down with the their young shall lie or destroy on all my Peace. May His peace young goat; down; the lion shall holy mountain; for the be with all of us, and with eat hay like the ox. earth shall be filled our world, in this holy The calf and the young with knowledge of season and throughout lion shall browse The baby shall play the LORD, as water the year to come. together, with a little by the viper’s den, covers the sea. child to guide them. and the child lay his hand on the adder’s “With a little child to The cow and the bear lair. Guide them” - ah, yes,

+Stefan Soroka Archbishop of Philadelphia for Ukrainians Metropolitan of Ukrainian Catholics in the United States

+Richard Seminack (author) Eparch of St. Nicholas in Chicago

+Paul Chomnycky, OSBM Eparch of Stamford

+ Bohdan Danylo Eparch of St. Josaphat in Parma

+John Bura Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia

Christmas 2014

“The Way” Holiday Schedule

The first 2015 issue of “The Way” will be the January 11, 2015 Issue.

Visit our website, blog, or Facebook page for any news or updates. http://www.ukrarcheparchy.us DECEMBER 21, 2014 3 Sunday before Christmas – Sunday of Holy Fathers December 21, 2014

This is the genealogyof Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham: Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar, Perez the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of King David. David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife, Solomon the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asa, Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Jehoram, Jehoram the father of Uzziah, Uzziah the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amon, Amon the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jeconiah and his brothers at the time of the exile to Babylon. After the exile to Babylon: Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, Zerubbabel the father of Abihud, Abihud the father of Eliakim,Eliakim the father of Azor, Azor the father of Zadok, Zadok the father of Akim, Akim the father of Elihud, Elihud the father of Eleazar, Eleazar the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah. Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah. This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. (Мt. 1, 1-25)

Usually people react to this Gospel reading by asking: Why do we have to hear all those names every year? What are these fourteen generations of names times three? These fourteen generations of names times three end in Joseph, who is not even the biological father of the Savior. People will say: What is the importance of this?

The importance has to do with the fact of the Promise. In the reading from the Epistle to the Hebrews, we recall all these ancestors of Christ who had lived by faith, starting with Abraham. All these people lived in the hope of the fulfillment of the Promise of the Lord. The Promise of the Lord was a Savior, a Redeemer, and Life. We have to say, also, that the Promise has to do with blessing. The whole Promise begins with Abraham, saying that his descendants are going to be a blessing on the earth. People are generally taking the matter of descendants as purely physical descendants. However, we are counting not only physical ancestry, but also spiritual ancestry. (continued on next page) DECEMBER 21, 2014 4 Sunday before Christmas – Sunday of Holy Fathers (continued from previous page) On the second Sunday before the Nativity, we pay attention to the spiritual ancestry of Christ, and today, the Sunday before the Nativity, the physical ancestry of Christ is emphasized. We are talking about this life in faith. We are talking about life in faith, hope, and trust in God’s love, trust in His Promise of a Savior, trust in His Promise of blessing. The people who are the descendants of Abraham are truly people who have lived by faith. All those persons whose names we have heard today are ancestors of Christ, spiritually speaking, and people who lived with faith in the fulfillment of the Promise, and trust in the Lord. Many of these people suffered because of their confidence in the Lord, His love, and their hope in the fulfillment.

In the Scriptures, there two genealogies of Christ, one in the Gospel of Luke, the other in the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew’s genealogy begins with Abraham. The Lucan genealogy traces the lineage of Jesus back to Adam. The genealogies definitely demonstrate that the Savior did not just appear out of nowhere (physically speaking). You hear in pagan mythologies that some people appear out of nowhere. The Savior is a human being who comes from an ancestry that we know. We know where He was born. We know where He grew up. These are important details. These ancestors of Christ, these ancestors of Joseph (who was the foster-father of the Savior) are people who prepared the way for Christ by their love, and by their faithfulness, they made the time of the Incarnation possible.

We are reminded that as human beings we are both physical and spiritual beings. Human beings consist of body and soul. This is the Christian condition. Our faith is all about the love of God concretely and physically manifested to us. It’s all about God’s life-giving and saving love. If there is true spirituality amongst us, it manifests itself in this wholeness, this unity of spiritual, and physical. Actually, this was the characteristic Hebrew mentality and belief--that spirit and the body are inseparable. Together, they are one. This physical presence of the Savior, which is coming with the Incarnation that we are about to celebrate, is the most important occurrence that ever could have happened to us. This proves to us the love of the Lord. Human beings always demand tangible, concrete proof of everything, and this included our need for tangible evidences of the love of God for us, and His physical presence among us.

This is the reason for the Incarnation. This is why we Christian believers have to show to other people around us concrete evidence of our hope in Jesus Christ by how we behave and how we live. No matter how much people exasperate us, no matter how much they put us to the test, we have to show them concretely that we do love them.

The incarnational way the Lord continues to show His love to us is through the Gospel, itself. The written word about the Savior, the Lord’s Promise (and its fulfillment), those words that are spoken from the Gospel, are words that are spoken as from the Savior, Himself. So, when we respond in our hymns to what is proclaimed in the Gospel, we are responding in words such as “today” this is happening or “today” is the fulfillment of the Lord’s Promise. When the time of the Nativity will come, we will be saying: “Today Christ is Born.” When those words are proclaimed to us, it is Christ, Himself, coming to us, present with us. It is the Word giving us His words. Always identify the Gospel, the word of God with our Savior, the Word Who became flesh, Who is in our midst. Because the Gospel is proclaimed in our midst during the Divine Liturgy, Christ is truly present in our midst.

The Word of God came down from heaven, took flesh, and is in our midst, in the middle of us. We all have the responsibility to proclaim Christ, to present Christ, to re-present Christ. In the same way as the Lord put flesh on His love, it is important that we, ourselves, live out this love in concrete, tangible ways. Live on in my love, as I have loved you. DECEMBER 21, 2014 5 To Metropolitan Stefan and all our readership,

The entire staff of “The Way” greets all on this joyous Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord God and Savior, Jesus Christ!

May the guiding light of the Bethlehem Star lead us to The Way of Christ - the path to salvation. Therefore, let us all sing the Christmas carol, Boh Predvichny - God Eternal:

God Eternal is born today He came down from above To save us with His love Christ is Born! Christ, the Son of God.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 6 The Icon of the Nativity of Christ

Icons have a long history understands the purpose This presence shines in the Byzantine tradition, of the icon, one can radically with the especially in Ukraine. better appreciate the black opening of They can be paintings solemn spiritual truths the cave in which on wood plaques or on which it is depicting. He was born. This plaster walls, mosaics of contrast is often stone or tiles, or enamel As part of this tradition seen in the Fathers’ work on metal. Some of iconography, the writings in terms of might feel that icons do Nativity icon usually the spiritual light not compare in beauty represents certain facts of Christ’s birth to realistic paintings or surrounding the Birth of radiating through other works of art, but Jesus Christ. Although the shadow of death that is exactly why icons different nativity icons encompassing man. together and shown are different and special will at a glance seem The black mouth of the simultaneously. In the in their own right. to vary, if one examines cave, then symbolically, bottom left corner, them as a whole, there is precisely this fallen Joseph sits in painful The icon is meant to are several of the same world in which the “Sun thought, while the Devil, be a representation of symbolic representations of Righteousness” has under the guise of an a sacred subject—it is expressed on all of dawned, this wilderness old and bent shepherd, meant to reflect truths not them. which the “Light of suggests new doubts of this world; because of Wisdom” has illumined. and suspicions to him. In this, icons could not be Nativity icons are meant the opposite corner, two expected to look life-like. to show two things to The Virgin Mother is shown women are seen bathing Whatever the subject of the viewer: first, that half-sitting, supported by the new-born Infant, to the icon, it is a symbol of the Birth of Christ was a hammock-type bed show the real humanity something in the spiritual a real event—one that used by the early Jews of Jesus. realm—it is not beautiful happened here on in their travels. Striking is for the sake of beauty earth; and second, the the absence of the usual All of creation takes part alone, as many life-like effect that this miraculous sufferings of childbirth in the birth of the Savior. paintings are, but only event, that is the fact that which is iconographically In the cave, the Infant in a way that aids in Jesus, who is God and seen to be an indication lies guarded by an ox its depiction of spiritual therefore Divine, also of the virgin-birth of and a donkey. While the beauty. Because the became man with His Christ. Gospels do not speak icon is made to help the birth, had on the world of them, all icons of the viewer see Divine reality, and on all creation. As in the Gospel, all Nativity portray them because it is meant to mankind is called to this because of the manifest be looked upon as a The Birth of Christ is a event. The Wise Men fulfillment of the prophecy religious image, it does celebration of joy. The represent the learned and of Isaiah, “An ox knows not emphasize the carnal fact that God became astute, and the shepherds its owner, and an ass its or physical world. In man and entered into represent the humble of master’s manger.” (Is. fact, in its abstractness, its our human life is seen in this world. A multitude of 1: 3) The mountainside starkness, its singularity, the Icon of the Nativity. Angels give glory to God is a backdrop to the and its somber use Wrapped in swaddling and announce this good event. While it bears little of color, the icon is clothes and lying in a news to mankind. correspondence to the purposely avoiding the manger is the Christ Child. representation of “real All the details of the Icon In the Icon, several life”—and when one relate to His presence. episodes are grouped (continued on next page) DECEMBER 21, 2014 7 The Icon of the Nativity of Christ (continued from previous page) terrain of Bethlehem in tree painted across from Him.” (Is. 11: 1-2) the heavens a star; Wise Judea, it parallels a line the image of Joseph, Men gifts; Shepherds from the prayer of the included not only in its The Icon of the Nativity amazement; the earth Prophet Habakkuk: “God own right as an offering calls us to praise and a cave; the wilderness comes from Teman, the to Christ, but also as a glorify the Birth of a manger; but we -the Holy One from Mount symbol of the Tree of Christ. With the hymns Virgin Mother.” Haran. Covered are the Jesse. In the words of of Vespers we too say: heavens with His glory, the Prophet Isaiah, “But “What shall we bring and with His praise the a shoot shall sprout from to You, O Christ, Who, earth is filled.” (Heb. 3: the stump of Jesse, and for our sake, was born 3) from his roots a bud shall on earth as man? Every blossom. The spirit of creature brings thanks to One final detail is the the Lord shall rest upon you: Angels their songs; Live Internet Broadcasts of Divine Liturgy

This Christmas the Ukrainian Catholic parish of St. Michael the Archangel in Woonsocket, RI, will be celebrating the third anniversary of its first live Internet broadcast of Divine Liturgy through its website (www. stmichaelsri.org/Video.php).

The parish broadcasts all of its Sunday Divine Liturgies in addition to its Christmas services, and is hoping that those faithful who cannot attend their own church in person will take advantage of these broadcasts. “One of our trustees, Dr. Michael Klufas, came up with the idea of reaching out to people in nursing homes, or who are shut-ins due to age, illness or injury,” explains Cornel Osadsa, who leads the video project. Photo: Screenshot of www.stmichaelsri.org/ Video.php, showing the video player with the “Providing a really good broadcast takes a lot of text field for the Typicon, Epistle and Gospel time, effort and money,” he adds, “but our parish readings below. made a commitment to doing an excellent job, and not a job that is merely ‘good enough’.”

To that end, the parish has gone from a single standard-definition camera with a built-in microphone to two PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) high-definition cameras with separate external microphones for the priest and the choir. It also acquired video software to fine tune broadcasts for viewers with iOS or Android mobile devices. In addition to its current video player, its video web page will soon provide entire text of Divine Liturgy with the Typicon, Epistle and Gospel readings.

St. Michael’s broadcast of Christmas services will begin at 10:30 AM. Broadcasts of Sunday Divine Liturgies begin at 11 AM. For those who cannot watch a broadcast live, recordings are usually available through the parish’s video web page within 90 minutes from the end of a broadcast. DECEMBER 21, 2014 8 St. Nicholas Visits Protection of the Mother of God, (St. Mary’s) Ukrainian Catholic Church in Bristol, PA

St. Nicholas poses with Parish children and Rev. Gregory Maslak (top right).

St. Nicholas Visits Ukrainian Catholic National Shrine of the Holy Family in Washington, DC

On December 7, the St. Josaphat Council 7530 Knights of Columbus hosted a special event to welcome St. Nicholas to the Ukrainian Catholic National Shrine of the Holy Family. St. Nicholas recounted his life, explained his legacy, and distributed gift bags to the children of the parish and their families.

Pictured with St. Nicholas are Auxiliary Bishop John Bura and Father Wasyl Kharuk.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 9 St. Nicholas Visits Assumption Catholic School, Perth Amboy, NJ

On December 5th, St. Nicholas paid a visit to Assumption Catholic School (ACS) in Perth Amboy, NJ! The festivities began with a special performance by the Senior Drama group. After the play, students welcomed St. Nicholas to ACS by singing the traditional St. Nicholas Song, “O kto, kto Nikolaja l’ubit”. WHO IS ST. NICHOLAS? The true story of Santa Claus begins with Nicholas, who was born during the third century in the village of Patara. At the time the area was Greek and is now on the southern coast of Turkey. His wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic while Nicholas was still young. Obeying Jesus’ words to “sell what you own and give the money to the poor,” Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He dedicated his life to serving God and was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.

St. Nicholas greeted the students and staff with gifts. As St. Nicholas was leaving for the next visit on his list, students returned to their classroom to enjoy their new gifts and chocolates donated by our FSA.

St. Nicholas Visits Assumption Church in Perth Amboy, NJ.

On Sunday December 7th, 2014 following the 9:00 AM and the 11:30 AM Liturgy, St. Nicholas made his annual visit to the children of the Assumption Parish in Perth Amboy, NJ. The event was held at the church hall, which was filled 65 excited youngsters with their families and friends. Prior to the St. Nicholas arrival, the children and their families participated at the Divine Liturgy and enjoyed children’s sermon by Fr. Ivan Turyk. Before distributing his gifts, St. Nicholas encouraged all the children to be good, to obey their parents, to remember to say their prayers and to come to church on Sundays. The event was sponsored by the men from the Holy Name Society. We thank St. Nicholas for taking time out of his busy schedule to visit the children.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 10 NEW MOSAICS OF VENERABLE METROPOLITAN ANDREY SHEPTYTSKY AND BLESSED JOSAPHATA HORDASHEVSKA, SSMI FOR CATHEDRAL Two full sized mosaics of Venerable Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky and Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska, SSMI will be installed in our Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia in Spring, 2015. The mosaics will include a reliquary for relics of both Metropolitan Sheptytsky and Blessed Josaphata for veneration by all.

Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, is to visit Philadelphia in September, 2015. He has been invited to include a visit to our Cathedral during his short two day visit. In hopeful anticipation of such a visit, we have commissioned these mosaics for the Holy Father to bless. Please pray for this!

The mosaics have been prepared by our world renowned iconographer who has written most of the Cathedral’s iconography, Christine Dochwat. The mosaics are being fabricated in Italy by the same firm which has done previous art work in our Cathedral. The cost for each will be approximately $ 35,000, which is very reasonable for such a significant project. Financial donations are invited from individuals and parishes for this project. Perhaps someone or a group may wish to fund one or both mosaics in memory of a loved one or for a special intention. Please remember the power of the intercession of the saints for our needs! Thank you for your anticipated assistance. Please send donations to Archbishop’s Chancery, 827 N Franklin Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123. God bless you!

DECEMBER 21, 2014 11 NEW BELL TOWER FOR CATHEDRAL

The original Cathedral bell named “Stefan” in testimony to our first Ukrainian Catholic Bishop for all Eastern Catholics in USA, the Most Rev. Stephen Soter Ortynsky, OSBM, needs to be relocated from its present location. A new bell tower of our Cathedral is planned to accommodate the bell, to be located to the right of our Cathedral. We welcome your financial donation for this memorial to the founding bishop, clergy, religious and faithful. It is an expression of our heartfelt appreciation for their planting the seeds of faith and the roots of our Ukrainian Catholic Church in the USA.

Please help us to meet the costs by sending a donation to the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia, 827 N Franklin Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123. Your help is needed and appreciated. God bless you richly as you share in celebrating gratitude for our founders.

Schedule of services at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception for Christmas 2014

Wednesday, December 24 - CHRISTMAS EVE. 9:00 p.m. Compline Lytia Service. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy (UKR/ENG).

Thursday, December 25 - CHRISTMAS DAY. 9:00 a.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy (UKR). 11.00 a.m. Divine Liturgy (ENG).

Friday, December 26 - SYNAXIS OF THEOTOKOS. 9.00 a.m. Divine Liturgy (UKR/ENG).

Saturday, December 27 - FEAST OF ST. STEFAN. 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy (UKR/ENG).

Thursday, January 1 – CIRCUMCISION OF OUR LORD. FEAST OF ST. BASIL THE GREAT. NEW YEAR’S DAY. 10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy (UKR/ENG)

Monday, January 5 – EVE OF THEOPHANY OF OUR LORD (JORDAN). 6.30 p.m. Divine Liturgy. Blessing of Water (ENG).

Tuesday, January 6 - THEOPHANY OF OUR LORD (JORDAN). 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy. Blessing of Water (UKR).

Wednesday, January 7 - CHRISTMAS (Julian Calendar) 10:00 a.m. Christmas’ Divine Liturgy (UKR).

Sunday, January 11 – SUNDAY AFTER THEOPHANY 3 p. m. FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS CAROLS DECEMBER 21, 2014 12 RENEWAL OF VOWS WITNESSED BY FAITHFUL The Sisters Servants vocation as a Sister lighted candles and The Liturgy for the Feast of Mary Immaculate Servant on the Feast placing their hands of the Conception of renew their vows and of the Immaculate on the Gospel Book, St. Anne also known commitment to their Conception. renewed their vows of as the Feast of the Obedience, Poverty and Immaculate Conception On December 9th, Chastity to God in the was celebrated with the just before receiving presence of Fr. Andriy children of St. Nicholas the Holy Eucharist, Dudkevych and Fr. Yurij school attending who Sr. Cecelia Sworin, Worschak and the faithful witnessed this rite of SSMI and Sr. of St. Nicholas Ukrainian the Sisters for the first Bernitta Dub, SSMI Catholic Church, Passaic, time. The parishioners stood before the NJ. attending also witnessed Tetrapod holding and shared the experience. BASILIAN SISTERS MARK OPENING OF YEAR OF CONSECRATED LIFE “I am counting on you their spiritual mother, St. - February 2, 2016, will may realize the value of to wake up the world,” Macrina, sister of their offer programs to carry a religious vocation and states Pope Francis in founder, St. Basil the out its three aims: join them in living the his proclamation of the Great. 1. To look to the past Consecrated Life. opening of the Year of with gratitude. Consecrated Life. In his homily, Msgr. 2. To live the present O holy angelic Mother Waslo commended the with passion. Macrina, Look down On Sunday, November Sisters for their dedicated 3. To embrace the future from heaven and see. 30, 2014, the Sisters of service to and many with hope. Receive under your the Order of St. Basil the accomplishments among special protection All Great gathered in their the People of God and at Coordinated events consecrated women Motherhouse Chapel the conclusion of Liturgy and activities by the who praise your name. of the Holy Trinity, Fox intoned “Many Happy Basilian Sisters will be Ask the blessing of God Chase Manor, PA, to Years” in their honor. announced. upon all the members mark the beginning of of the Order. We pray this special observance of At the gathering that The Sisters of St. Basil that you intercede with the Catholic Church and followed, Provincial encourage the Faithful God to protect and to affirm their dedication Superior Sister Dorothy to join them in prayer increase our members. to the Vowed Life. Ann Busowski, OSBM, to St. Macrina, their In gratitude we strive for encouraged the Sisters mediator before God, the greater glory of God During the Little Entrance to reflect with satisfaction so that young women and for the salvation of with the Gospel Book, on their good work souls. Amen. the community of Sisters, done for the Catholic chanting the Beatitudes, Church as a whole, and Photo (L-R): Sister Mary processed up the center announced that special Cecilia Jurasinski, aisle behind Chaplain related events would OSBM; Sister Maria Rev. Msgr. Peter D. occur during the coming Rozmarynowycz, OSBM; Waslo to the tetrapod year. Sister Susanne Matwijiw, where they pronounced OSBM; Sister Elizaveta aloud the renewal of The Church’s Year Vepruk, OSBM; Sister their monastic vows of Consecrated Life, Monica Lesnick, OSBM and offered a prayer to November 30, 2014 DECEMBER 21, 2014 13 MALANKA 2015

Northeastern Pennsylvania’s 11th Annual Ukrainian New Year Dinner Dance -MALANKA - will take place on Saturday evening, January 17, 2015 at the Parish Center of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, 428 North Seventh Avenue, Scranton, PA.

The menu will feature both Ukrainian and American fare catered by Paul Wanas of Accentuate Caterers of Distinctive Events. Cash bar will be available. Door prizes will be awarded. Music for dancing will be provided by the internationally known Ukrainian band “Fata Morgana”. Wearing Ukrainian apparel is encouraged.

Tickets $40.00. Reservations are required and can be made by contacting Michael Trusz at 570 489-1256.

Please note that the Divine Liturgy is celebrated at 4:00pm immediately preceding the Malanka. This year the pastor and faithful of St. Vladimir parish are honored to welcome the choir of SS. Cyril and Methodius Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church of Olyphant PA which will sing the liturgical responses. Everyone is welcome.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 14 +Sister Grace Ladouceur, SSMI (August 23, 1925 – December 9, 2014)

SLOATSBURG, NY the young age of 17, many years was teaching – On the feast of the Sr. Grace already knew in various schools in Immaculate Conception, God’s path for her and Elizabeth, NJ, Detroit, MI, the name of the USA know she followed this Minersville, Philadelphia Province of the Sisters calling with much zeal, but and Shamokin, PA. Servants of Mary was probably unaware She truly loved the Immaculate, Sr. Grace of the challenges she children and the children Ladouceur peacefully would face. Sr. Grace loved her. Sr. Grace also fell asleep in the Lord. humbly but proudly served at our Adult Care and maintenance. The daughter of the late shared the struggles Homes in Chestnut Hill, Bishop Paul commended Harry and Marie (Kane) that she encountered PA and Sloatsburg, NY. Sr. Grace’s willingness Ladouceur, Sister Grace and overcame when she Sr. Grace thought a little to risk to do something was born in Windsor, entered, experiencing “out of the box”, as she that was unusual but Ontario, Canada. She rejection twice due to desired to get certification necessary. Concluding entered the Sisters the language barrier in electronics, car repair his homily, Bishop Paul Servants of Mary (Sr. Grace didn’t know & maintenance and thanked Sr. Grace for Immaculate on July 23, Ukrainian and the carpentry and used her her courage to persevere 1948 and professed her Directress didn’t know skills for the community and share her gifts with first vows on November English) and she faced often. her community and the 19, 1950 and professed obstacles from the clergy Church. her Final Vows on August as she had to change rites In his homily, Bishop Paul 15, 1957 in Ancaster, from Roman Catholic to Chomnycky shared about The Parastas Service was Canada. Eastern Catholic. In the Sr. Grace following her celebrated on Sunday, 1940’s Eastern Catholics own unique religious call. December 14th by Msgr. Sixty-six of her 89 years were not even considered One quality that Bishop John Terlecky, Chaplain. of life were faithfully Catholic by many of Paul noted was her The Funeral Divine devoted to the service of the clergy. Imagine perseverance in Religious Liturgy was celebrated by the Lord in every ministry a young woman who Life, entering three times. Bishop Paul Chomnycky she served. Her mother wants to join a religious She persevered in a on Monday, December was Irish, her father was community, on fire with good sense, not in a 15th.Concelebrants were French. Her parents died the goal that she wants to self-centered, stubborn Rt. Rev. Mitred Msgr. when she was young and make a difference in the way, but in listening to John Terlecky, Very Rev. Sr. Grace was raised by world, and faces these the voice of God even Archpriest Kiril Angelov, her Grandma Emma and obstacles. Thankfully though it was difficult Very Rev. Archpriest her Aunt Pearl. Her Aunt for the Sisters Servants for her. She always Ivan Kaszczak and Rev. and Uncle lived in Detroit, and the Church, the 3rd wanted to follow God’s Robert Markowitch. Michigan and it was time was a charm for Sr. voice. Bishop Paul also Interment followed in the from there that Sr. Grace Grace. noted Sr. Grace’s gift of SSMI Cemetery. met the Sisters Servants “pushing the envelope” of Mary Immaculate In the beginning of her going in places where May God grant his and knew that this was ministry, Sr. Grace was women, let alone a handmaiden, Sister the Congregation she stationed at Willingdon sister, especially at that Grace, eternal memory wanted to join, even Hospital and Mundare time, would venture to and blessed repose. though she was of the Hospital in Canada. Sr. and got her certification Roman Catholic Rite. At Grace’s main ministry for in electronics, car repair DECEMBER 21, 2014 15 ECED Members Meet in Arizona

Late in October members of ECED, the publishing arm of ECA (the Eastern Catholic bishops in the United States), met at the pastoral Center of the Holy Protection Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Phoenix.

Before any business began, the directors of religious education departments from across the country attended a Divine Liturgy at St Stephen’s Cathedral, celebrated by His Grace, Bishop Gerald Dino. In his homily Bishop Gerald emphasized the importance of the work of the committee and the virtue of perseverance in continuing the mission to provide suitable material for instructing the faithful of every age in search of salvation.

Following was a two-day program of reports, deliberations, presentations and decisions in a detailed agenda designed to evaluate the status of the inventory of books, maps, pamphlets, DVDs and other catechetical aids produced by God With Us Publications. Additionally, the committee explored options for furthering the group’s ever-expanding response to the needs of the digital age. Suggestions were also presented on adding to the titles of books to the inventory of God With Us Publications.

For more than forty years our bishops have collaborated with one another and relied upon the ECED to provide accurate and attractive books, VHS tapes, CDs and posters for every age and grade level—pre-K through high school and beyond in adult ongoing education programs. Check out http://godwithuspublications. com for available products.

ECED was instrumental in the four ENCOUNTER sessions held over the past two years. To function on a broader scope, the group has purchased equipment that can be shared by each eparchy to be able to present live-streamed Internet broadcast of special events. Part of the meeting was devoted to a “hands on” activity involving the camera and computer system.

All this is in response to frequent requests from the faithful “when will our churches have resources for us to learn about Eastern Catholic teachings and traditions?” Attention must be directed to the various eparchial newspapers, web sites and the God With Us Publication site where the information has been available—yet perhaps not accessed by all who might be looking for it. Networking of parish-level catechists was seen as a possible solution to the [L-R] Sr Marion Dobos, OSB (Archeparchy of Pittsburgh), Fr John perceived lack of material. Lucas (Eparchy of St Nicholas), Fr Stephan Bilyk (Archeparchy of Philadelphia), Mitered Archpriest John Kachuba (Eparchy The meeting was adjourned, of Parma) and chairman Very Rev Gregory Noga (Eparchy of and attendees went home with Passaic) watch a power point presentation by Deacon Sabatino a task list—in preparation for Carnazzo (Eparchy of Newton). the next meeting.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 16 ENDOWMENT AWARD RECIPIENT HONORED BY LUC

This year’s recipient of the +Sr. John Paskevich, SSMI Memorial School Endowment Award is Peter Zulin, an 8th grade student at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic School in Perth Amboy, NJ.

Fostering education at all levels has been a basic tenant of the League of Ukrainian Catholics of America (LUC) since its inception in 1933. This year the National Board of the LUC continues a tradition established in 1997. The Endowment Fund was named after the late +Sr. John Paskevich, SSMI who served as the Religious Director of the National Board of the League from 1987 until 1996 when +Sr. John fell asleep in the Lord. +Sr. John was an educator with a life-long commitment to the Catholic education of youth.

Eager to learn and excel, she encouraged her staff and students to do their best and to be the best. This Endowment Fund awards an annual monetary gift to a selected Metropolia parochial school in the name of an exceptional student nominated by the school principal.

Receiving the award was a very pleasant surprise for Peter, who initially could not understand why the principal, Mr. Michael Szyphulsky, insisted he wear his school uniform on a school dress-down day. Fr. Ivan Turyk, pastor of Assumption parish, describes Peter as an outstanding all around student who attends Divine Liturgy regularly and is a senior altar server.

Ms. Marion C. Hrubec, President, National Board of the LUC, presented the award to the worthy student as his 8th grade colleagues looked on.

Photo (Back Row: L to R) Mrs. Barabara Houghton, grandmother; Mr. Michael Szpyhulsky, School principal; Father Ivan Turyk, pastor; Mr. Peter Zulin Sr., Peter’s father. (Front Row: L to R) Mrs. Jessica Zulin, Peter’s mother; Peter Zulin, recipient; Ms. Marion Hrubec, President - National Board of the League of Ukrainian Catholics; Andrew Zulin, Peter’s brother

Rev. Myronyuk attends presentation On November 5, 2014, members of the Ukrainian community of Northeastern Pennsylvania attended a presentation by His Excellency Yuriy Sergeyev, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United Nations. The Ambassador spoke on “the Ukrainian-Russian Conflict and Global Security.” The event known as the Annual Honorable T. Linus Hoban Memorial Forum was cosponsored by the University of Scranton and the Lackawanna Bar Association.

Pictured left to right: Malcolm L. MacKinnon, Esq., President Lackawanna Bar Association, Ambassador Sergeyev and Rev. Myron Myronyuk, Pastor St. Vladimir Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church of Scranton. DECEMBER 21, 2014 17 Ukrainian Dancers travel to the Prudential Center

Written by Miss Anna Lawrance.

The Prudential Center in Newark, NJ - Home to NHL’s New Jersey Devils, the Seton Hall Pirates and, for one night only, Assumption Catholic School’s Ukrainian Dance Group, Reechka.

Under the direction of their instructor Yarko Dobriansky, the oldest dancers, from grades 3 through 7, from Assumption Catholic School in Perth Amboy, NJ, had been hard at work perfecting a new hutsul dance and Saturday, December 6, as part of Ukrainian Heritage Night at the Devils’ game versus the Washington Capitals was their time to shine.

Some of our students have been dancing with this group for as long as they’ve been old enough to. Some of them only started dancing this year. However, all the students gave a performance to be proud of with their bright smiles and fast and fancy footwork. The boys wore the brightly colored vests of the hutsul region of western Ukraine. The girls wore braided head pieces with poppies and sequins. The dance, choreographed by Pan Yarko, featured circle and partner moves, typical of the hutsul style, and a new and daring combination where the boys jump over one another.

This was the second annual Ukrainian Heritage Night held at the Prudential Center. The evening featured other dancers in addition to our own, older students and professionals from Iskra Ukrainian Dance Ensemble in Whippany, NJ. Pre-game entertainment included strolling accordion players and face painting (Ukrainian flags or tryzubs). For the students, pre-game entertainment also included the rush and excitement of being “backstage” at the Prudential Center.

Finally, it was time to perform. The students waited patiently for their turn and were dazzled to watch the professional dancers as they jumped impossibly high or spun around at dizzying speeds. It was truly inspiring to watch. When it was their turn to perform, they ran to their spots and waited nervously for the music to start. As the familiar tune started to play, they jumped into their dance, skipping and spinning around the stage. They were a real hit with the audience! When they finished, there was much applause.

Thanks to the students for all their hard work, and thanks to Yarko Dobriansky for his guidance and faith in the students’ abilities. DECEMBER 21, 2014 18 Blessings of Rings Ceremony occurs in Perth Amboy, NJ

On Friday, December 5th the Assumption Catholic School Class of 2015 made their way to Divine Liturgy as they had done every Friday for as long as they could remember. This week it was a little different. The class of 25 students looked like they were walking on air! This was going to be a special day for them. After Liturgy was finished, they participated at the blessing of rings ceremony. The class ring symbolizes a remarkable achievement in the life of students and marks the beginning of a new stage in their school experience. Fr. Ivan Turyk blessed the rings then congratulated each student as the school’s Principal Mr. S. called them forward to receive their ring. In his homily, Father stated that the class ring is not only a symbol of power and prestige, it is more importantly a symbol of service, a reminder that authority is to be used for good, it is to be wielded with mercy, it is to be put to service for the benefit of fellow students. Following a session of proud families taking pictures, everyone went down to the church basement for a small celebration to mark the importance of the day. Kudos and blessings to the Class of 2015

SS. Cyril and Methodius Ukrainian Catholic Church, Olyphant, PA., Fund Raiser offers the release of their Christmas Album “Traditional Ukrainian Christmas Carols” in the CD Format

Choir members of SS. Cyril and Methodius Ukrainian Catholic Church, Olyphant, PA gather together to discuss the new CD Format of the “Traditional Ukrainian Christmas Carols” Christmas Album and the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom DVD for the 2014 Fund Raiser for the Church Choir.

The Choir is also seeking good adult singers to join the Church Choir. The choir sings in Church Slavonic and you do not need to speak Ukrainian. Serious interested singers only, please contact 570-876-2888. The Divine Liturgy is sung by the choir every Sunday at 9:00 a.m.

Photo: Left to right: Victoria Nasevich, Jill Hunt, Marlene Zelno, Jackie Hunt, Marie Martin, Back Row: Ann Nasevich.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 19

Come Home for Christmas Поверніться додому на Різдво!

Parish Schedules of Liturgical Services for the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ As you come home for Christmas, you are invited to celebrate with us the birth of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. For some, our church may be the home of your youth; for others our church welcomes you to join with us as we greet the newborn King and experience the joy of Our Eternal God being with us. The following Christmas liturgy schedules are those that were shared by our churches inviting you to join with their parish families this Christmas season.

May you have a Holy and Blessed Christmas and a Healthy and Happy New Year.

Christ Is Born! Glorify Him!

Розклад літургійних служб для парафій на празник Різдва нашого Господа і Спаса Ісуса Христа Оскільки всі ви збираєтеся вдома на Різдво, ми запрошуємо вас відсвяткувати з нами народження нашого Господа і Спаса Ісуса Христа. Для де-кого наша церква може бути домом його юності; інших церква запрошує приєднатися до привітання новонародженого Царя і пережити радість перебування з нами нашого Предвічного Бога. Нижченаведеного різдвяного літургійного розкладу дотримуються більшість наших церков, які запрошують вас до своїх парафіяльних родин у цей різдвяний час. Бажаємо вам побожного й благословенного Різдва та щасливого Нового Року!

ХРИСТОС РАЖДАЄТЬСЯ! СЛАВІМ ЙОГО!

DECEMBER 21, 2014 20 Cathedral of the Immaculate Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 10:30 AM—Divine Liturgy Conception

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Saint Basil Church 9:00 PM-- Great Compline followed by Hierarchical Chesapeake City, Maryland Divine Liturgy (Ukr/Eng). Wednesday, Christmas eve, December 24 Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 4:00 PM – Great Compline 9:00 AM-- Hierarchical Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 4:30 PM – Divine Liturgy 11:00 AM Divine Liturgy (Eng.) Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Ss. Peter and Paul Church 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr/Eng). Curtis Bay, Maryland Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr/Eng). 8:00 PM-- Great Compline followed by Divine Liturgy Wednesday, January 7 Christmas (Julian calendar) Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy (Ukr). 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy Saint Nicholas Church Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Wilmington, Delaware Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Wednesday, Christmas eve, December 24 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy 9:00 PM --Great Compline 9:30 PM --Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Holy Trinity Church 10:00 AM – Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Silver Spring, Maryland 9:30 AM – Divine Liturgy Tuesday, Christmas Eve January 6 Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 9:00 AM—Vespers and Liturgy of St. Basil the Great 9:30 AM – Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) Wednesday, Christmas Day, January 7 National Shrine of the Holy Family 10:00 AM—Great Compline (Ukr.) 11:00 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) Washington, D.C. Thursday, January 8 Synaxis of the Mother of God Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 6:30 PM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 4:30 PM—Children’s Procession and Vespers and Friday, January 9 Feast of St. Stephen Divine Liturgy of St. Basil 9:30 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 10:00 PM-- Great Compline followed by Divine Liturgy (Ukr/Eng). Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Assumption of the B.V.M. Church 10:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy (Ukr./Eng.) Friday, December 26, Synaxis of the Mother of God Bayonne, New Jersey 10:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy (Ukr./Eng.) Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25, 2012 Saturday, December 27, Feast of St. Stephen 8:30 AM - Great Compline 10:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy (Ukr./Eng.) 9:00 AM – Divine Liturgy

St. Michael the Archangel Church Baltimore, Maryland St. Mary Church Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Carteret, New Jersey 10:00 PM-- Great Compline followed by Divine Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Liturgy 9:00 PM Great Compline and Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 10:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy 10:30 AM. Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 10:30 AM—Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy

DECEMBER 21, 2014 21 St. Michael Church Saints Peter and Paul Church Cherry Hill, New Jersey Jersey City, New Jersey Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 8:00 AM – Royal Hours (Eng.) – 10:00 PM-- Great Compline 10:00 PM – Great Compline (Ukr./Eng.) with Litya 10:30 PM-- Divine Liturgy 10:30 PM – Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great (Ukr.) Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 11:00 AM-- Christmas Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM – Divine Liturgy (Eng.) Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 7:00 PM – Divine Liturgy (Eng.) St. Nicholas Church Millville, New Jersey Saint Vladimir Church Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Elizabeth, New Jersey 3:30 PM-- Great Compline Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 4:00 PM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr./Eng.) 8:30 PM-- Great Compline and Divine Liturgy (Eng.) Friday, December 26, 2014 – Synaxis of the Theotokos Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 4:00 pm. Divine Liturgy (Eng.) 11:00 AM Divine Liturgy (Ukr. and Eng.) Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 9:00 AM Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) St. John the Baptist Church Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 9:00 AM Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) Newark, New Jersey Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 5:00 PM Divine Liturgy (Еng.) St. Nicholas Church 10:00 PM Great Compline, Christmas Caroling, Great Meadows, New Jersey Confessions Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 11:00 PM Divine Liturgy (Ukr.Eng.) 8:00 PM-- Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 8:00 AM Divine Liturgy (Eng.) 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God St. Michael the Archangel Church 9:00 AM Divine Liturgy (Ukr./Eng.) 7:00 PM Divine Liturgy (Ukr./Eng.) Hillsborough, New Jersey Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 9:00 AM Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 9:00 PM-- Great Compline (Ukr.) 10:00 PM-- Christmas Divine Liturgy (Eng.) Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1100AM-- Christmas Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Church 8:30 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) New Brunswick, New Jersey Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 8:30 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 7:45 AM—Great Compline (Ukr.) 8:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) Immaculate Conception Church Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 10:30 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) Hillside, New Jersey Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 10:30 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 4:00 PM-- Divine Liturgy (Eng.) Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 8:45 AM-- Divine Liturgy (Ukr.)

DECEMBER 21, 2014 22 St. Nicholas Church Saint Josaphat Church Passaic, New Jersey Trenton, New Jersey Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 10:00 PM-- Great Compline 9:00 PM-- Great Compline 10:30 PM--. Divine Liturgy 10:00 PM-- Divine Liturgy Thursday Christmas Day December 25 Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 8:30 AM. Divine Liturgy (Eng.) 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy 10:30 AM. Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 9:00 AM Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM Divine Liturgy 7:00 PM –Divine Liturgy Saturday December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 9:00 AM. Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy

Saint John the Baptist Church Assumption of the BVM Church Whippany, New Jersey Perth Amboy, New Jersey Wednesday, Christmas eve, December 24 Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 8:30 AM – Divine Liturgy of St. Basil with Vespers 5:00 PM—Children’s Divine Liturgy (Eng.) 9:00 PM - Great Compline 9:30 PM-- Great Compline (Eng.) 10:00 PM - Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 10:00 PM-- Divine Liturgy (Eng.) Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 10:00 AM - Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 11:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy (Eng.) 9:00 AM - Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 7:00 PM - Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr/Eng) Saturday December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 9:00 AM - Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr/Eng) Ss. Cyril and Methodius Church, Berwick, Pennsylvania Saint Paul Church Wednesday, Christmas eve, December 24 Ramsey, New Jersey 10:00 PM Great Compline Thursday Christmas Day December 25 11:00 PM Divine Liturgy 12:00 noon Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 – Synaxis of the Mother of St. Stephen Church God 9:00 AM Divine Liturgy Toms River, New Jersey Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 9:00 AM Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy (Eng.) 10:30 AM – Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) St. Josaphat Church Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr./Eng.) Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Wednesday, Christmas eve, December 24 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr./Eng.) 10:00 AM -- Vesperal Divine Liturgy Wednesday, January 7 Christmas (Julian calendar) 9:00 PM -- Great Compline, caroling, Divine Liturgy 10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy (Ukr). Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25, 2012 9:00 AM -- Matins, caroling Divine Liturgy Friday December 26 9:00 AM:-- Divine Liturgy Saturday December 27 9:00 AM:-- Divine Liturgy

DECEMBER 21, 2014 23 Protection of the B. V. M. Church, St. Vladimir Church Bristol, Pennsylvania Edwardsville, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas eve, December 24 Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 8:00 PM - Great Compline 7:30 PM-- Great Compline 9:00 PM -Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 11:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM - Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 11:00 AM—Divine Liturgy 6:00 PM - Divine Liturgy Saturday December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Saint Michael Church 10:00 AM - Divine Liturgy Frackville, Pennsylvania Saints Peter and Paul Church Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Bridgeport, Pennsylvania 8:00 PM – Great Compline with Lytiya Wednesday, Christmas eve, December 24 9:00 PM – Divine Liturgy 8:30 PM - Great Compline Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 9:00 PM - Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 10:30 AM – Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 10:00 AM - Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM – Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 8:00 AM - Divine Liturgy 10:00 AM – Divine Liturgy Saturday December 27, 2012 Feast of St. Stephen 8:00 AM - Divine Liturgy St. Nicholas Church Assumption of the B.V.M. Church Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania Centralia, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 8:00 PM-- Christmas Divine Liturgy 4:00 PM-- Great Compline Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 5:00 PM-- Divine Liturgy 6:30 PM Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 10:00 AM—Great Compline and caroling followed by 6:30 PM Divine Liturgy Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God St. Michael Church 10:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Hazleton, Pennsylvania 10:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Thursday. Christmas Day, Dec. 25 9:00 AM -- Divine Liturgy Holy Ghost Church Friday, Dec. 26, Synaxis of the Mother of God Chester, Pennsylvania 9:00 AM – Divine Liturgy

Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy Saint Michael Church Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Jenkintown, Pennsylvania 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Tuesday, Christmas Eve January 6 Saints Peter and Paul Church 9:00 PM – Great Compline and Divine Liturgy Wednesday, Christmas Day, January 7 Clifton Heights, Pennsylvania 9:00 AM – Divine Liturgy Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Thursday, January 8 Synaxis of the Mother of God 4:00 PM-- Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM – Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Friday, January 9 Feast of St. Stephen 10:00 AM—Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM – Divine Liturgy

DECEMBER 21, 2014 24 Parish Mission Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Lancaster, Pennsylvania Mary Church Faithful are invited to attend services at Melrose Park, Pennsylvania Nativity of the BVM Church, Reading, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM — Confessions Presentation of Our Lord Church 9:00 PM — Great Compline followed by Divine Liturgy (Ukr/Eng). Lansdale, Pennsylvania Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 9:00 AM — Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 7:00 PM-- Christmas Matins & Divine Liturgy with 11:00 AM — Divine Liturgy (Eng. ) Myrovania Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 9:00 AM — Divine Liturgy (Ukr/Eng). 11:30 AM-- Christmas Divine Liturgy with Myrovania Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 9:00 AM — Divine Liturgy (Ukr/Eng). 11:30 AM—Divine Liturgy Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 11:30 AM—Divine Liturgy Nativity of the BVM Church Middleport, Pennsylvania Saint John the Baptist Church Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Maizeville, Pennsylvania 8:00 AM – Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 5:00 PM – Divine Liturgy 8:30 AM – Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 8:30 AM – Divine Liturgy Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen St. Nicholas Church 8:30 AM – Divine Liturgy Minersville, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas Eve, December 24 8:00 PM -- Divine Liturgy with children’s program Patronage of the Mother of God Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Church 10:00 AM – Divine Liturgy McAdoo, Pennsylvania Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 9:00 AM – Divine Liturgy Wednesday. Christmas Eve, Dec. 24 Saturday, December 27 – Feast of St. Stephen 10:00 PM -- Great Compline and carols 9:00 AM – Divine Liturgy 11:00 PM -- Divine Liturgy Thursday. Christmas Day, Dec. 25 11:00 AM -- Divine Liturgy Friday, Dec. 26, Synaxis of the Mother of God Saints Peter and Paul Church 6:30 PM – Divine Liturgy Mt. Carmel, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 7:30 PM-- Great Compline followed by Traditional Patronage of the Mother of God Christmas Caroling Church 8:00 PM-- Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Marion Heights, Pennsylvania 8:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 10:00 PM –Great Compline and Divine Liturgy 8:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 10:00 AM – Divine Liturgy 8:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 10:00 AM Divine Liturgy

DECEMBER 21, 2014 25 Transfiguration of Our Lord Church Christ the King Church Nanticoke, Pennsylvania Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 9:00 PM—Great Compline and Divine Liturgy. 10:00 AM – Compline Christmas Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 10:30AM – Divine Liturgy 10:30 AM – Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Saturday, December 27, Feast of St. Stephen 10:30 AM – Divine Liturgy 10:30 AM – Divine Liturgy

St. Josaphat Church St. John the Baptist Church Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Northampton, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 9:00 PM-- Great Compline Divine Liturgy (Ukr./Eng.) 5:00 PM—Vigil of Christmas Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 8:30 AM—Divine Liturgy Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy (Ukr.) 8:30 AM—Divine Liturgy St. Nicholas Church Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Ss. Cyril and Methodius Church Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Olyphant, Pennsylvania 8:00 AM – Compline Christmas Divine Liturgy Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 9:00 PM – Compline 8:30 AM – Divine Liturgy 10:00 PM – Christmas Divine Liturgy Saturday, December 27, Feast of St. Stephen Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 8:30 AM – Divine Liturgy

9:00 AM – Christmas Divine Liturgy 11:30 AM – Christmas Divine Liturgy Saints Peter and Paul Church Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Phoenixville, Pennsylvania 9:00 AM – Divine Liturgy Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Saturday, December 27, Feast of St. Stephen 5:00 PM-- Great Compline followed by Christmas 9:00 AM – Divine Liturgy Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 10:00 AM-- Christmas Divine Liturgy St. Vladimir Church Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Palmerton, Pennsylvania Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy 7:00 PM—Great Compline Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Saints Peter and Paul Church 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Plymouth, Pennsylvania 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 5:00 PM-- Great Compline followed by Christmas 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 8:30 AM-- Christmas Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 8:30 AM—Divine Liturgy

DECEMBER 21, 2014 26 St. Michael Church Transfiguration of Our Lord Church Pottstown, Pennsylvania Shamokin, Pennsylvania Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy 7:00 PM-- Great Compline and Divine Liturgy. Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy 9:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy. Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy. Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy. Nativity of the Blessed Mother Church Reading, Pennsylvania Saints Peter and Paul Church Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 9:00 PM—Great Compline Simpson, Pennsylvania 10:00 PM – Divine Liturgy (Eng./Ukr.) Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 4:00 PM-- Great Compline and Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM-- Divine Liturgy (Eng./Ukr.) Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 4:00 PM-- Divine Liturgy. 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy St. Michael Church Shenandoah, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 St. Nicholas Church 4:00 PM-- Divine Liturgy Saint Clair, Pennsylvania Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 10:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 7:30 PM-- Divine Liturgy 10:30 AM—Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 8:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 8:30 AM—Divine Liturgy St. Anne Church Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen Warrington, Pennsylvania 8:30 AM—Divine Liturgy Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 4:00 PM-- Children's Divine Liturgy with Myrovania 10:00 PM-- Christmas Matins & Divine Liturgy with Ascension of Our Lord Church Myrovania Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Sayre, Pennsylvania 9:00 AM-- Christmas Divine Liturgy with Myrovania Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God 12:00 noon-- Divine Liturgy 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen 9:00 AM—Divine Liturgy St. Vladimir Church, Scranton, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Holy Ghost Church 9:30 PM-- Divine Liturgy West Easton, Pennsylvania Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 10:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy 6:30 PM-- Great Compline and Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 10:00 AM—Divine Liturgy 1100 AM-- Divine Liturgy

DECEMBER 21, 2014 27 Saints Peter and Paul Church

Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania Wednesday, Christmas Eve December 24 Festival of Ukrainian Christmas Carols 10:30 PM-- Great Compline and Divine Liturgy Thursday, Christmas Day, December 25 Sunday, January 11, 2015 at 3:00 PM 8:30 AM-- Divine Liturgy Friday, December 26 Synaxis of the Mother of God Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception 11:00 AM—Divine Liturgy 830 North Franklin Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123

During the Concert a collection will be taken for the medical needs of the Ukrainian Army. Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin ------Mary Church Фестиваль Українських Різдвяних Колядок

Manassas, Virginia Неділя, 11-го cічня 2015 року о 3-й годині пополудні Wednesday, Christmas Eve, Dec 24 7:30 PM – Great Compline Катедра Непорочного Зачаття 8:00 PM – Divine Liturgy (Eng) Філадельфія, ПА

Під час Концерту буде проводитись збірка на медичні потреби Української Армії.

St. John the Baptist Church

Richmond, Virginia Thursday, Christmas Day, Dec 25 10:00 AM – Divine Liturgy (Ukr/Eng)

St. Nicholas Visits Scranton, PA

​St. Nicholas visited the children of Scranton’s St. Vladimir Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church on Sunday, December 14, 2014 during which the children told the story of Christ’s Birth and the true meaning of Christmas. Carols along with the age-old “O kto, kto Nikolaja l’ubit”/ “Oh Who Loves Saint Nicholas the Saintly” was sung in both the English and Ukrainian languages in greeting St. Nicholas known as the Wonderworker. The afternoon program was led by Diann Wolfe, Panyi Irene Myronyuk Pictured with some of the children far right is Father and Dr. Helen Chandoha. Myron Myronyuk, Pastor. Photo by Dawn Caramanno.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 28 11th Annual Candlelight Christmas Pageant Held in Frackville, Pa.; St. Nicholas Makes His Annual Visit to the Children of the Parish

FRACKVILLE, PA - St. Michael Ukrainian Catholic Church hosted its 11th annual Candlelight Christmas Pageant on Sunday afternoon, December 7.

The Pageant retells the Nativity story by the parish children and a few adults playing biblical characters as found in the Gospels of Luke and Matthew, including the announcement from Archangel Gabriel to Mary that she would give birth to the Messiah, to the visit by the shepherds and the adoration of the Magi, the Three The entire Candlelight Pageant ensemble poses for a group photo. Kings, who would offer the Christ Child gifts of gold, frankincense sang “Boh Predvichny,” everyone was held in and myrrh. The Holy or Eternal God, in English the parish social hall. St. Family was portrayed by and Ukrainian, as they Nicholas then made his Jordan Boxer as Joseph, held lighted candles in annual visit, and talked Max Boxer as the Infant the dimly-lit church. with and distributed gifts Jesus and Krystal Boxer to all the children. as Mary. After the pageant, a covered dish social for Traditional Christmas carols were sung by the cast and the audience between the scriptural references, often accompanied by a brass ensemble. Students from Deb Kosick’s Music Studio also participated Max Boxer is held in the program. in the arms of St. Nicholas (Jason At the conclusion, Petro Pitula, Nick Meridionale, and Johnny Yulich). everyone in the church Meridionale portray the Three Wise Men. DECEMBER 21, 2014 29 2014 School Christmas Concert in Perth Amboy

On December 12th, 2014 the Assumption Catholic School Auditorium in Perth Amboy, NJ was packed to the rafters with parents and grandparents that had come to see and hear the 2014 PreK-8 Christmas Program. Every student was standing tall, singing loudly and smiling at the crowd. There were lots of Christmas songs that covered all interests and the clapping from the audience demonstrated their appreciation. All students in the school were very excited about being up on the stage singing for their families.

This year, the Bethlehem Peace Light was brought to our school before the concert. In December, a candle was lit in the Grotto of Christ’s Birth in the Church of the Nativity, in Bethlehem. This flame has been transported across the world by scouts. This chain of lights is a symbol peace, warmth, love and family. The flame brought a lot of happiness and joy to all participants at the concert. Thank you to all who attended, our students, our teachers, the program planner Mrs. Melanie Lawrence and of course the music teacher Miss Anna Lawrence.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 30 Saint Nicholas visits Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary parish in Melrose Park, PA

Parish children were delighted Sunday, December 7, 2014 with a visit from the saint known as the ‘Wonder Worker’ - and, indeed, he did create a sense of wonder. One by one, he called out the names of the assembled children and presented them with gifts. The children responded by singing the traditional greeting for Saint Nicholas. St. Nicholas with the parish children and Rev. Ihor Royik St Nicholas Visits Holy Ghost Ukrainian Catholic Church in West Easton, PA on December 14, 2014.

St. Nicholas with the parish children and Rev. Daniel Troyan.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 31 St Nicholas Visits Shamokin, PA

On Sunday December 7th St. Nicholas visited the children of Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church, Shamokin, PA. Children along with their parents and parishioners began the celebration with Divine Liturgy. The Holy Name Society and Ladies Auxiliary treated everyone to a delicious breakfast after which the Sunday School Children sang Ukrainian carols greeting St. Nicholas upon his arrival. St. Nicholas distributed gifts to thirty-three children of the parish. A great time was had by all. Sr. Natalya, SSMI, sings carols with the Sunday School Children in Shamokin.

St Nicholas Visits McAdoo, PA

St. Nicholas visited the children of Patronage of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church (St. Mary’s) in McAdoo, PA.

Msgr. James Melnic is pictured with St. Nicholas and the children.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 32 St. Nicholas visits St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church in Northampton, PA and their pastor, Rev. David Clooney.

Chancery Staff Christmas Luncheon Celebration On December 18, 2014, Metropolitan- Archbishop Stefan Soroka hosted a Festive Chancery Staff Christmas Luncheon at the Bishops Residence. Towards the conclusion of the luncheon, Rev. Joseph Szupa, Chancellor, presented Metropolitan Stefan with a gift on behalf of the staff. The Luncheon concluded with the singing of Christmas Carols in both English and Ukrainian languages.

A Visit to the Cathedral & Museum

A group of students from Grace Christian Academy visited the Treasury of Faith Museum and Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Saturday, December 13, 2014. Rev. Walter Pasicznyk gave the tour of the Cathedral and Mother Evhenia, MSMG and Sr. Timothea, MSMG offered the tour of the Treasury of Faith Museum.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 33 Christmas Eve Supper

Christmas Eve Supper or Sviata Vecheria (Holy Supper) brings the family together to partake in special foods and begin the holiday with many customs and traditions, which reach back to antiquity. The rituals of the Christmas Eve are dedicated to God, to the welfare of the family, and to the remembrance of the ancestors. With the appearance of the first star which is believed to be the Star of Bethlehem, the family gathers to begin supper.

The table is covered with two tablecloths, one for the ancestors of the family, the second for the living members. In pagan times ancestors were considered to be benevolent spirits, who, when properly respected, brought good fortune to the living family members. Under the table, as well as under the tablecloths some hay is spread to remember that Christ was born in a manger. The table always has one extra place-setting for the deceased family members, whose souls, according to belief, come on Christmas Eve and partake of the food.

A kolach (Christmas bread) is placed in the center of the table. This bread is braided into a ring, and three such rings are placed one on top of the other, with a candle in the center of the top one. The three rings symbolize the Trinity and the circular form represents Eternity.

A didukh (meaning grandfather) is a sheaf of wheat stalks or made of mixed grain stalks. It is placed under the icons in the house. In Ukraine, this is a very important Christmas tradition, because the stalks of grain symbolize all the ancestors of the family, and it is believed that their spirits reside in it during the holidays.

After the didukh is positioned in the place of honor, the father or head of the household places a bowl of kutia (boiled wheat mixed with poppy seeds and honey) next to it. Kutia is the most important food of the entire Christmas Eve Supper, and is also called God’s Food. A jug of uzvar (stewed fruits, which should contain 12 different fruits) and is called God’s Drink, is also served.

After all the preparations have been completed, the father offers each member of the family a piece of bread dipped in honey, which had been previously blessed in church. He then leads the family in prayer. After the prayer the father extends his best wishes to everyone with the greeting Khrystos Razhdaietsia (Christ is born), and the family sits down to a twelve-course meatless Christmas Eve Supper.

There are twelve courses in the Supper, because according to the Christian tradition each course is dedicated to one of Christ’s Apostles. According to the ancient pagan belief, each course stood was for every full moon during the course of the year. The courses are meatless because there is a period of fasting required by the Church until Christmas Day. However, for the pagans the meatless dishes were a form of bloodless sacrifice to the gods.

The first course is always kutia. It is the main dish of the whole supper. Then comes borshch (beet soup) with vushka (boiled dumplings filled with chopped mushrooms and onions). This is followed by a variety of fish - baked, broiled, fried, cold in aspic, fish balls, marinated herring and so on. Then come varenyky (boiled dumplings filled with cabbage, potatoes, buckwheat grains, or prunes. There are also holubtsi (stuffed cabbage), and the supper ends with uzvar.

DECEMBER 21, 2014 34 METROPOLITAN STEFAN’S SCHEDULE FOR DECEMBER

Dec. 2 MEETING WITH KAHN & COMPANY REALTORS RE: USE OF UNDERUSED PROPERTY OF ARCHEPARCHY DEC 3 MEETING OF NEWLY FORMED “UNDER THE GOLDEN DOME” INITIATIVE TO ENHANCE OUR CATHEDRAL AS PLACE OF WORKSHIP AND VENERATION IN COMMUNITY. DEC. 4 MEETING OF WOMEN’S DAY COMMITTEE RECORDING OF CHRISTMAS RADIO ANNOUNCEMENTS AT CBS/KYW STUDIO MEETING OF ARCHIEPARCHIAL PILGRIMAGE COMMITTEE DEC. 5 SOBOR FOLLOW-UP COMMITTEE MEETING DEC. 6 FEAST OF ST. NICHOLAS DEC. 7 VISIT WITH SVITLYCHKA NURSERY SCHOOL CHILDREN AT UKRAINIAN EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL CENTER, ABINGTON, PA DEC. 8 MEETING WITH ARCHITECTS RE: BELL TOWER AT CATHEDRAL DEC. 9 DIVINE LITURGY FOR ALL BENEFACTORS OF ARCHEPARCHY ON FEAST OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF ST. ANNE, UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CATHEDRAL OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, PHILADELPHIA, PA DEC. 10 VISIT TO BALTIMORE FIRST ANNUAL FUNDRAISING DINNER BY URBI ET ORBI FOUNDATION AT NUNCIO’S RESIDENCE IN WASHINGTON, DC VISIT WITH ARCHIMANDRITE JOSEPH LEE OF MONASTERY OF HOLY CROSS, WASHINGTON, DC DEC. 14 WELCOME GREETINGS AT CHRISTMAS CHORAL CONCERT BY UKRAINIAN BAPTIST COMMUNITY IN PHILADELPHIA AT UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CATHEDRAL OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, PHILADELPHIA, PA DEC. 15 PATRONAL FEAST DAY DINNER WITH SISTERS OF ORDER OF ST. BASIL THE GREAT, FOX CHASE, PA DEC. 16 MEETING WITH ARCHIEPARCHIAL VOCATIONS DIRECTOR, REV. PAUL MAKAR. DEC. 18 CHRISTMAS STAFF LUNCHEON CELEBRATION, BISHOP’S RESIDENCE DEC. 20 VISIT FOR ST. NICHOLAS GATHERING AT UKRAINIAN HERITAGE SCHOOL, UKRAINIAN EDUCATION AND CULTURAL CENTER, ABINGTON, PA DEC. 24 HOLY SUPPER AT BISHOP’S RESIDENCE 9:00 PM CHRISTMAS HIERARCHICAL DIVINE LITURGY AT CATHEDRAL DEC. 25 9:00 AM (UKRAINIAN) CHRISTMAS HIERARCHICAL DIVINE LITURGY AT CATHEDRAL 11:00 AM (ENGLISH) CHRISTMAS HIERARCHICAL DIVINE LITURGY (OFFER HOMILY ONLY) DEC. 26 9:00 AM DIVINE LITURGY AT CATHEDRAL FOR SYNAXIS OF THE THEOTOKOS WELCOME OF UKRAINIAN AMERICAN YOUTH ASSOCIATION “CYM” CAROLLERS AT BISHOP’S RESIDENCE DEC. 27 9:00AM DIVINE LITURGY AT CATHEDRAL FOR FEAST OF ST. STEPHEN WELCOME OF “PROMOTHEUS CHOIR” CAROLLING AT BISHOP’S RESIDENCE DEC. 28 PATRONAL FEAST DAY LITURGY AND DINNER WITH SISTERS SERVANTS OF MARY IMMACULATE, SLOATSBURG, NY DEC. 31 THANKSGIVING FOR PAST YEAR AND A HAPPY AND BLESSED NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE!

DECEMBER 21, 2014 35 His Beatitude Sviatoslav during a prayer vigil for peace in Ukraine: “The Pope is on the side of Ukraine and its people”

Wednesday, 10 December 2014

Freedom of the Church invariably means the pronouncement of the freedom of the person. It is that freedom to which God calls us, arousing the wish to be oneself, to be a person, created in the image and likeness of God. We should once more hear the words of God, said to every Ukrainian in Mariupol, Donetsk, Luhansk, Kyiv and Lviv: “Do not be afraid, simply believe. Yearn for freedom! However, remember, you will be free only in God and with God.”

This was stated by His Beatitude Sviatoslav, UGCC Head, during the prayer vigil, in the UGCC Patriarchal Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ in Kyiv, for peace in Ukraine on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the legalization of UGCC. The event took place on December 10th, within the framework of the visit to Ukraine of the Papal Legate Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, O.P., Archbishop of Vienna and the Ordinary for the faithful of the Byzantine Rite in Austria.

The 25th jubillee of the legalization of UGCC, believes His Beatitude Sviatoslav, is an opportunity to once again think through this gift of freedom, to accept it and “to be free people in a free country on a free land.” He remembered the events of 25 years ago, when the meeting between Pope John Paul II and the then President of USSR, Mykhailo Gorbachov, took place. “In a freed UGCC this Holy Pope played a decisive role. It was He who interceded then for our Church. He asked his Polish people not to be afraid when the Poles took off the chains of the Soviet regime. Today he is among us through his relics which we worship here today,” he added.

It is the contention of UGCC Major Archbishop, that the present Pope Francis also plays not the last role in the current events of UGCC as well as those of the Ukrainian people.” In this way the Pope expresses his solidarity with the people who suffer for their own freedom.

“We are grateful to God for the gift of freedom. From UGCC and the Ukrainian people we express our gratitude to the Holy Father for what he does for our people, so that we can preserve the received gift of freedom,” he concluded.

Photo: Yaroslav Pavliuk

UGCC Department of Information

Adapted from an article on http://news.ugcc.ua/

DECEMBER 21, 2014 36 Cardinal Christoph Schonborn: The fate of Ukraine regards all of us

Saturday, 13 December 2014

After return back to Vienna Cardinal Christoph Schonborn wrote the short reflections for the newspaper Zeitung Heute about his visit to Ukraine.

Exactly 25 years ago, in 1989, Mykhailo Gorbachev restored to the right of legal exiatance to the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. In 1946, during Stalin’s rule, this Church endured horrific repression and was formally forced to survive in the underground and to endure terrible persecutions. I have the great honor to come to this «Feast of the Resurrection of the UGCC» as legate of The Holy Father Francis. Today the UGCC is one of the most lively realities of free and independent Ukraine, and I had the great joy to see this for myself.

I was shocked when I visited the National Museum «Memorial to the Victims of the Holodomor in Ukraine», erected in memory of the millions of people who perished from famine, deliberately caused by Stalin. We knew almost nothing about this «Holodomor» – the death of millions of people from hunger during period between 1932 and 1934. Stalin created this famine artificially, in order to expropriate the property of farmers and, in this way, to weaken Ukraine. During the Second World War many more victims were added by Naziism – Jews and Ukrainians.

Truly, this land has endured great trials through suffering and is drenched through with blood. Today, this country wants to be a free, independent, and democratic state. Will it succeed? Will the West fulfill their promises to help and support? Will Russia abandon it’s aggressive politic (the occupation of Crimea and territories in eastern Ukraine)?

What struck me the most during this visit, when meeting people – was their Hope and Strong Will never again to be enslaved, and their deep Faith that the Lord God has not forsaken them! And we shall not forget them, for their fate pertains to all of us!

Trans. Rev. A. McVay http://news.ugcc.ua/

DECEMBER 21, 2014 37 January 2015 - C³÷íÿ 2015

Congratulations on your Happy Birthday! Anniversary of Priesthood!

Ç Äíåì íàðîäæåííÿ! ³òàºìî ç г÷íèöåþ Ñâÿùåíñòâà!

January 6: Rev. Andriy Manko, C.S.s.R. January 5: Rev. Volodymyr Popyk January 9: Very Rev. Archpr. Daniel Gurovich (18th Anniversary) January 12: Rev. Vasyl Sivinskyi January 8: Rev. Oleksandr Dumenko January 19: V. Rev. Archimandrite Joseph Lee (14th Anniversary) January 21: Rev. Taras Lonchyna January 9: Rev. Orest Kunderevych January 28: Rev. Mr. Theodore Spotts (17th Anniversary) January 17: Rev. Paul Wolensky May the Good Lord Continue to Guide (21st Anniversary) You and Shower You with His Great Blessings. Mnohaya Lita! May God Grant You Many Happy and Blessed Years of Service in the Íåõàé Äîáðèé Ãîñïîäü ÒðèìຠVineyard of Our Lord! Âàñ ó Ñâî¿é Îï³ö³ òà Ùåäðî Áëàãîñëîâèòü Âàñ. Ìíîãàÿ ˳òà! Íåõàé Áîã Îáäàðóº Áàãàòüìà Áëàãîñëîâåííèìè Ðîêàìè Ñëóæ³ííÿ â Ãîñïîäíüîìó Âèíîãðàäíèêó!

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