Eastern Catholic Life

“In the beginning was the Word ... “

VOL. XLVIII, NO. 11 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2012

Eparchial Priest Retreat 2012

Clergy on annual retreat: seated (left to right): Fathers David Baratelli, Peter Tomas, Msgr. Sekellick, Fathers Nicholas Kraynak, Bertha (Retreat Master), Edward Cimbala (Eparchial Administrator), Michael Venditti, Msgr. Robert Senetsky, Fathers Edward Higgins, and Frank Hanincik. Standing, Second row (l. to r.): Fathers Edward Semko, Richard Rohrer, Peter Donish, James Demko, Michael Mondik, Michael Kerestes, Ronald Hatton, James Badeaux, Gary Mensinger, Harry Untereiner, Michael Yurista, Hosler, Sal Pignato, Charles Yastishock, Jack Custer, Michael Salnicky, Vasyl Chepelskyy, Ihor Kovalchuk (visiting priest), Michael Popson, Eduard Shestak, Gregory Noga, John Cigan, Alex Shuter, Mykhaylo Prodanets, and James Hayer. Standing, top row (l. to r.): Fathers Marcel Szabo, Nicholas DeProspero, Martin Vavrak, John Basarab, John Zeyack, Robert Slesinski, and Leonard Martin, SJ.

he of the of Passaic once again packed their cas- story of Joseph the , as recorded in the Book of Genesis, and how socks and prayer books and journeyed to the Jersey Shore for the his relationships with his brothers and father, Jacob, relate to ministry in the Tannual Eparchial Priest Retreat at San Alphonso Retreat House priesthood. Father Joseph was also invited by Gerald Dino of the in Long Branch (West End) New Jersey. The retreat house is run by the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Phoenix to present the same retreat to the Redemptorist Fathers and has long been a favorite retreat location for the clergy of that eparchy. eparchial priests. Following arrival and dinner, the priests began the retreat with the cel- The Very Reverend Edward Cimbala, Administrator of the Eparchy of ebration of the Akathist to the Mother of . The beautiful and traditional Passaic, welcomed the priests to annual retreat. In his opening remarks, he service traces the life of the Mother of God in spiritual hymn. The center- noted that this year has been designated by the Holy Father as the “Year of piece chosen for the Akathist and all discussions, was the miraculous Faith.” Because of this, he encouraged the priests to host regional parish icon of Our Lady of Mariapoch - a personal favorite of Father Bertha who missions and to encourage as many people as possible to attend. He fur- encouraged the priests to turn to the Mother of God for assistance in their ther noted that Father Frank Hanincik, of Trumbull, CT, will be available to priestly ministries. serve as a guest speaker for regional missions during the Year of Faith. He For each presentation, Father Joseph distributed color copies of four also encouraged the priests to continue to promote the DDA (Stewardship) icon panels depicting the life of the Patriarch Joseph. He then related the im- program, and spoke to them about the plans for the forthcoming 50th An- ages of the icon to aspects of ministry in the life of a priest and challenged niversary of the Eparchy celebration. the priests to ask themselves where they would place themselves in the icon The Retreat Master for this year was one of our own eparchial priests scenes. For instance, the icon depicts Joseph being led away to slavery and – Father Joseph Bertha, PhD, of Michael Byzantine Catholic transported to Egypt. Father Bertha then asked the priests how readily they Church in Pittston, PA and Saint Nicholas Byzantine in would allow themselves to be enslaved to the will of God? He went on to Swoyersville, PA. Well known for his expertise in iconography, Father Jo- explain that God often transposes each of us into places and situation in seph spoke to the priests on the topic of “Joseph: the Icon of Christ the which we feel uncomfortable. Yet, we submit willingly to this and rely upon Eternal High Priest.” The retreat centered on a series of talks based on the Continued on Page 14.

Kingston Parish Celebrates 125 Years! Story and Photos on pages 5-7 Page 2 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, November 4, 2012

Preparing for the 50th Anniversary of the Eparchy of Passaic NOTE: On Sunday, November 10, 2013, Father Jody Baran, tracing the history of the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic the Byzantine Catholic Church in the United will observe the 50th Anniversary of its ca- States, and the history of the Eparchy of nonical establishment. In anticipation of this Passaic from it formation to the present day. joyous and historic event, we are pleased The first article in the series appears below. to present a series of articles, compiled by

A New Land - A New Chance And Hope For A Bright Future By Father Jody J. Baran

ur Ruthenian forefathers came to this were men with special abilities and talents such as Oland as immigrants. Immigration is de- woodcarvers, craftsmen, etc. By and large they fined as a “voluntary movement of people from were seen as adding additional manpower to the one country to another, usually with the aim of military and they easily assimilated into Ameri- permanent settlement in the adopted country.” The can Society. reasons for people immigrating to America were The “New Immigration,” which lasted from vast, but some of the major factors have included 1890-1914 consisted of larger numbers of immi- wars, social changes, economic downturns, and grants mostly from Southern and Eastern Europe, political and religious persecutions. There is no primarily from Italy, Greece, Austria-Hungary, doubt that the Ruthenian Greek-Catholics of the Russia, and Poland. They settled mostly in cit- former Austro-Hungarian Empire could rightly ies near factories. Many had trouble assimilating claim all of these reasons as justification for their into American society because they were quite exodus from Europe. However, the single most different culturally from the majority of Ameri- compelling factor that motivated our forefathers cans who descended from Northern and Western could be argued to be the same factor that moti- Europe immigrants. The Italians and Greeks pri- vates people to this very day, and to uproot their inspiring sight of the Statue of Liberty, herself an marily came to flee poverty in their native land, lives in their native lands and to travel to a foreign “immigrant” to these shores, who had beckoned while the Russians and Austro-Hungarians (in- shore. It was their desire to find greater opportu- the outcasts from the Old World. These were the cluding our own Ruthenian/Slavic people) were nities for themselves and their children, and the “tired, the poor, the huddled masses yearning to fleeing heavy taxation and mandatory military “American Dream” has always offered such an breathe free” as the immortal words of the won- service in the imperial armies. Again, these new opportunity. derful poem, “New Colossus” written by Emma Lazarus states. Our great nation, the United States, has been often been called “a nation of immigrants.” In Many of these “pilgrims” were When our ancestors came here it was not an the more than two hundred years of its existence welcomed by a nation that was itself easy journey. They spent three to four weeks on it has become the new homeland of over 55 mil- growing from humble beginnings, a ship in steerage. These ships were overcrowded lion people, from nearly every corner of the and unsanitary. Some even died during this ar- world. Many of these “pilgrims” were welcomed but others were often viewed with duous voyage not ever experiencing the sight of by a nation that was itself growing from humble suspicion, hostility and disdain. Lady Liberty. When they arrived, they were im- beginnings, but others were often viewed with mediately taken to their first United States desti- suspicion, hostility and disdain. It could be said nation, the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization that all who left their ancestral homeland to make immigrants competed for jobs that many natives Center on Ellis Island close to the Statue in New the arduous voyage to America were forever believed rightly belonged to Americans (and there York Harbor. These people were frightened and changed. It could also be said that America was was not a major war that required massive num- suspicious as they stood in long lines in the main forever changed by the arrival and assimilation of bers of new recruits as the Civil War had). Many hall, wearing their strange clothing and speaking these new American immigrants. of these New Immigrants were also more difficult many different languages. They waited for som- to “Americanize” as the majority had little for- ber-looking who would process them History defines two major waves of Ameri- mal education and maintained a desire to recreate and bring them, one step closer to their new life. can immigration, the Old and New Immigrations. their old ways of life here in America. As a result, After passing through this processing part they The “Old Immigration” was from roughly 1830 to they often created ghettos and felt little need to went to exchange their foreign currency for new 1860 and was mostly comprised of Irish and Ger- learn “American ways.” As such, many natives American money so they could make their next man immigrants. The Irish came because they had considered these “New Immigrants” to be vastly move in the New World - going to find homes no self-rule and there was a severe potato fam- inferior to the “Old Immigrants.” or meet relatives already here or meet employers, ine during this time. Many of the Germans who whatever it would take to start their new life here. came were the liberals and intellectuals who fled In defense of these New Immigrants, many They either stayed in New York or went to other after the Revolution of 1848. The opposition to did eventually assimilate into American society, states where they would set up their new homes these newcomers to our shores claimed that they if not as quickly as their counterparts from earlier and establish themselves as Americans. were stealing American jobs, that they did not as- times. More importantly, they provided essential similate into society very well, and of course they manpower for the expanding American industrial These were the factory workers, the farmers were Catholic, which was greatly looked down base during the Industrial Revolution, while also and mine workers who furthered American indus- upon by the Anglo-Saxon Protestant Americans. increasing the consumer base for American goods. tries but suffered for it from hardship and trials. The Slavic peoples who came to this land could They were overworked, underpaid and often time In the years 1860-1890, immigrants came be classified into the East Slavic (including Rus- would die leaving young families behind to fend from northern Europe, mainly England, Germa- sians, Ukrainians, and Belarusians), West Slavic for themselves. ny, Scandinavia. These came to settle the fron- (including Poles, Czechs, Slovaks, and Silesians), tier near the growing railroads. These newcomers [This ongoing series will continue in the next and South Slavic (including Bulgarians, Mace- were actually welcomed as workers for factories, edition of the Eastern Catholic Life.] donians, Slovenes, Croats, Bosnians, Serbs and mines, railroads; farmers for the west; consum- Montenegrins). The immigrants who came here ers for agricultural and industrial products. There were greeted, as so many have been, by the awe- Sunday, November 4, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 3

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

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

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

Missions are already scheduled at the following locations:

~Saint Mary’s Hillsborough, NJ - November- 26th, 27th and 28th. ~ Wyoming Valley Parishes - December 18th, 19th and 20th. ~ Saint Ann’s in Harrisburg, PA - February 5th, 6th and 7th ~ Jessup and Forest City, PA - March 17th, 18th and 19th Page 4 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, November 4, 2012

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

In Westbury... Annual Circulation Report ...100 Years Young!

WESTBURY, NY – Anna (nee Homza) Bednarik of Woodbury NY marked her 100th birthday sur- rounded by family and friends on Monthly 12 September 8th. Maureen A native of Kingston, PA, Anna was, for many years, an active mem- ber of Saint Mary Parish in Manhat- tan. Now residing on Long Island, Very Reverend Edward Cimbala, D.Min. she is a communicant of Saint An- drew the Apostle parish, Westbury, administered by Father Jack Custer.

Resurrection Church, Smithtown, NY hosted a prayerful witness to the sanctity of human life on Saturday, October 6th. Following the Divine October 7, 2012 Liturgy, a prayerful procession took place around a Planned Parenthood facility where the Akathist Hymn was chanted. The faithful then re- turned to Resurrection Parish Hall where refreshments and pro-life ex- 6812 6812 6812 hibits were offered. Parishioners from Saint the Apostle Church, 6451 Westbury, and neighboring Roman Catholic parishes also joined in the 6451 event, which was coordinated by Jeanne Marie Waxman. Saint Andrew Church is served by Father Jack Custer. 0 0

EASTERN CATHOLIC LIFE

(USPS 165-600) 6451 6451 (ISSN 0894-9786) Publication of the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic Subscription Rate: $12.00 per year. News and Photo Services: Catholic News Service, CNS Picture Service and Member of the Catholic Press Association of America. Published every three weeks by the Eastern Catholic Press Association, 445 Lackawanna Avenue, Woodland Park NJ 07424. 301 301 Phone: 973-890-7794. Fax: 973-890-7175. 6752 6752 Postage Paid at Little Falls, NJ and additional office at Bellmawr, NJ. 60 60 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: 6812 6812 Eastern Catholic Life 95% 95% 445 Lackawanna Avenue, Woodland Park, NJ 07424.

Nov 4, 2012 Very Rev. James G. Hayer, Editor Mrs. Diane Rabiej, Associate Editor 10/23/12 E-Mail us at: [email protected] Eparchial Website: www.EparchyofPassaic.com Sunday, November 4, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 5

Stewardship A Eparchial ppeal 2012

Your Stewardship Gifts Support FORMATION PROGRAM Support of the four-year program, Continuing Education, Our Eparchial Programs Seminars, Retreats OUR GOAL: $400,000 $5,000 EDUCATION OF SEMINARIANS AND PRIESTS EPARCHIAL & PAROCHIAL SUPPORT RESERVE Seminary Studies and Formation, Pastoral Programs, Workshops, Support, Renovation & Maintenance of Parishes in Need and Seminars,Eparchial Vocations Program, Graduate Studies Financial reserves for the Future and Emergencies $25,000 $120,000 PRIEST PENSION FUND ST NICHOLAS SHRINE/CARPATHIAN VILLAGE Maintenance, Improvement and Operation $10,000 $70,000 PROPERTY & CASUALTY INSURANCE Subsidizing Parish Premiums for Insurance Coverage $70,000

ASSISTANCE TO EUROPEAN Assistance and Aid to Seminaries, and Canonization $20,000

CLERGY HEALTH CARE Subsidizing Parish Contributions for Active and Retired $70,000

EASTERN CHRISTIAN FORMATION Catechist & Coordinator Formation, Family Enrichment, Congress, Publications, Youth Ministry, Certification May God Bless you in your generosity of Spirit! $10,000

If you have not received a PLEDGE CARD, you may use the one above, and return to your parish or to 445 Lackawanna Ave., Woodland Park, NJ 07424. Page 6 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, November 4, 2012

My vocation: Why Become a Sister of St. Basil? Purpose in life became clear through prayer By Sister Leocadia Sevachko, OSBM

am frequently asked the ques- One day after work, I came She left her charge, and imme- I tion, “Why did you become home very tired and I fell asleep. diately took me to see the , a Sister of St. Basil?” My first re- When I awakened, my eyes were Mother Macrina. That conversation sponse is that life is a journey where drawn to a picture of our crucified strengthened my desire to serve God there are many routes that can be Lord on the wall, and the sight of his as a Sister of St. Basil. As with so taken. We don’t always realize that suffering moved me to the deepest many choices in life, there were ob- God has chosen the one to which He compassion. Here the quest for my stacles to overcome and sacrifices wants us to respond. spirituality began. to be made. But praying in faith and with trust in God, He helped me to My journey of faith began at my I would see many Sisters from become a Sister. And so I was able to Baptism in St. Nicholas Byzantine different congregations in our city, grow spiritually and to reach out to Catholic Church in Youngstown, and my curiosity was aroused as many others, especially in the min- Ohio. Growing up in nearby Camp- to their place in the Church. When istry of education. It was challeng- bell, for twelve years I attended pub- I talked about this with my mother ing at times, but it was enjoyable lic schools which had a Christian en- and my pastor, both of them recom- and uplifting to be able to spread the vironment. In school I participated mended that I go to the Pilgrimage to Good News of the Gospel of Jesus in the usual activities of youth: skat- the Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Christ. ing, dancing, sledding, snow-ball Help at Mount St. Macrina in Union- throwing, and sports events. town. Participating in the services Sometimes our Lord allows us all of the prayers and he liked go- there, especially in the candlelight to glimpse the result of our efforts At home, I was greatly influ- ing to Divine Liturgy. With childlike processions, touched me deeply and for Him. Once a student in my class enced by a faith-filled loving family, simplicity he closed by saying that inspired me. I wanted very much asked “who was this Jesus about where God, prayer, and church were he looked forward to seeing me and to talk to a Basilian Sister, and the whom we were talking?” I assured the top priority. We never missed the other students in heaven. Lord provided me with this oppor- him that as we continued our studies, the liturgical services, missions, tunity. A sister who was working at he would know more and have a bet- catechetical classes and all other the lunch stand filled my order for ter understanding. On the last day of Sister Leocadia, though now retired Church activities. Within this envi- after 52 years of full time teaching, a hamburger. She looked at me and school that year, I found a note from ronment I began to see that there was continues to be actively involved asked, “Would you like to be a Sis- him on my desk. In it he thanked me a purpose in life. While working at with the catechetical ministry of the ter?” My response was, “Yes, but I for teaching him about Jesus. He several jobs, I tried to focus on my combined churches in Youngstown. don’t know enough about this.” wanted me to know that he learned future.

Vacation Bible School Memories

After hearing about how Jesus calmed the waters and winds on the Sea of Galilee (true peace) on Monday the children created stormy or sunny tie dye tee shirts, decorated personalized travel passports and ran stormy boat races. The focus of the Tuesday was the Miraculous Meal (true riches) HILLSBOROUGH, NJ – On complete with wet fish sponge relays August 6, 2012 over twenty young and sparkling fish crafts. Wednesday parishioners and friends began an was dedicated to the lessons learned entire week of Vacation Bible School from the temptations faced by Je- at Saint Mary’s Byzantine Catholic sus in the desert (true power.) Chil- Church in Hillsborough, New Jersey. dren created clear stone magnets and Everyone enjoyed the Ligouri’s Son- unique picture frames with rocks that Rise National Park theme. The theme ‘might have even been prehistoric.’ Father Ed with the students and staff of 2012 Vacation Bible School. is based on the verse, “My God will Jesus as the Good Shepherd (true made harmonicas. During the week time meals. Julie Klikus led the bib- meet all your needs according to His love) was the inspiration for Thurs- the children worked on a huge Vaca- lical discussions and organized the glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” - Phi- day’s wooly sheep and paw print pil- tion Bible School mosaic. craft and activity sessions. Father lippians 4:19. low activities and discussions. The Edward Cimbala Administrator of week concluded on Friday with Paul Dawn Todd spent the entire week Each day of the week was dedi- the Eparchy of Passaic and Pastor of and Silas giving praise in prison (true assisting with crafts and donating cated to promises made by Jesus – Saint Mary’s Church, provided musi- hope.) The rainy weather on Friday outdoor equipment for activities and promises of true peace, true riches, cal and reflective inspiration. true power, true love and true hope. enhanced the story, discussion and Helen Sikoriak prepared fabulous the wondrous sounds of crafty home- and healthy daily snacks and lunch- Sunday, November 4, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 7

Kingston Parish Observes 125 Years Saint Mary’s Protection Church Celebrates with Joy! By William Zdancewicz

aint Mary Byzantine Catholic moved by this illustration. Church, Kingston. PA marked its S Following the Divine Liturgy, the fes- 125th Anniversary on September 30, 2012 tivities continued at the East Mountain Inn. with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy Speakers at the Anniversary Dinner featured followed by an Anniversary Dinner at the reflection from four priests who served at East Mountain Inn of Wilkes-Barre, PA. Saint Mary Church: Archimandrite Stephen Principal Celebrant and Homilist for the J. Koster, SEOD (1991-95); Father Michael occasion was the Very Reverend Edward G. Salnicky (1995); Father Dennis Grumsey, Cimbala, D.Min., Administrator of the Ep- OFM (2006-07) and Father Mykhaylo Pro- archy of Passaic, NJ. In addition to Father danets (2009-present). Invocation was offered Mykhaylo Prodanets, current Pastor of Saint by Very Rev. Edward Cimbala and Benedic- Mary Church and Administrator of Saint tion by Msgr. John T. Sekellick, JCL. Council John Church, Wilkes-Barre Township, PA; President William Zdancewicz also offered other concelebrating clergy included Father remarks and served as Master of Ceremonies. Michael Salnicky, former Administrator of Following dinner, a surprise program Saint Mary Church and current Pastor of presentation was given by the “Wyoming Saint Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church, Valley Barbershop Harmony Chorus,” hon- Mt. Pocono, PA and regional Protopresby- oring the religious aspects of the parish ter; Msgr. John T. Sekellick, JCL, former century-plus observance, namely: “Swing Administrator of Saint Mary Church and Low, Sweet Chariot,” “How Great Thou currently Pastor of Holy Ghost Church, Jes- Art,” the “Battle Hymn,” and “God Bless sup, PA and Saint John Church, Forest City, America.” PA; Archimandrite Stephen J. Koster SEOD, former Pastor of Saint Mary Church; Father A special surprise presentation preced- Dennis Grumsey, OFM, former priest-in- ed the remarks of the current pastor, Father residence of Saint Mary Church and cur- Prodanets. The floral arrangement was giv- rently Pastor of Saint Casimir Church, Bal- en by the children of the parish education Exterior of St. Mary’s Protection Church. timore. Other concelebrants included Deacon studies program for placement in church on Basil Soroka, Saint Mary Church, Kingston, Monday, October 1st for the celebration of and Deacon Edward Frey, Saint Mary Church, the Patronal feast, the Protection of the The- Wilkes-Barre. Numerous priests, and otokos. ECF Student Jason Marcin then led religious Sisters of Saint Basil were also in at- the students in a cheer, “We’re proud to be tendance. Byzantine Catholics!” Congregation responses during the Divine The history of Saint Mary Byzantine Liturgy were offered under the direction of Catholic Church traces its beginning to the Cantor Andrew Drozdik of Saint Mary Church, year 1887, under the leadership of Father Scranton, together with Parish Cantor Joseph John Wolansky, pioneer Byzantine Catholic Putprush of Saint Mary Church, Kingston, as priest in America, for the purpose of build- well as regional cantors. Father James Hayer, ing a church of the so they Syncellus of the Susquehanna Valley, Pastor of could freely practice the faith they brought Saint Mary Church, Wilkes-Barre and former with them from Austria-Hungary to their Administrator of Saint Mary Church, Kingston, new country, the United States of America. offered his services as photographer with the Saint Mary’s of Kingston, is the second old- assistance of Deacon-Student William Hall. est Byzantine Ruthenian Church in the Unit- ed States. It was not until 1892 that an appli- Attending clergy processed from the Par- cation far a charter was prated to the Luzerne ish Hall to the Church led by the parish Al- County Court and on May 16 of that year, tar Servers. Very Reverend Edward Cimbala, articles of incorporation were granted to the Eparchial Administrator, was offered the tra- church. ditional greeting of hospitality with bread and salt by parish The original structure representatives, Paul Gresh was a frame building, later and Roger Nenni. As the Di- brick veneered, now used as vine Liturgy continued, Fa- a parish hall. It served as the ther Cimbala, in his homily, church until 1911. The pres- outlined the rich history of ent church of red brick, of Saint Mary’s Parish and en- Byzantine , had its cor- couraged people to pass on nerstone blessed on July 4, the faith and heritage that was 1911. entrusted to them. To illustrate Saint Mary Church in this point, he distributed sev- Kingston is the mother church eral scrolls among the parish- of four other Eastern parishes ioners in attendance. This, ex- in the area: Saints Peter and plained, was representative of Paul Ukrainian Catholic our faith. Then he instructed Church, Plymouth, (1898); that the scrolls to be passed to Saint Nicholas Byzantine everyone in the church, thus Catholic Church, Swoyers- representing how our faith is passed on from generation Continued on next page. to generation. All were truly Gathing for prayer in the newly-refurbished church. Page 8 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, November 4, 2012

Kingston Parish Observes 125 Years

Roger Nenni and Paul Gresh greet the Eparchial Administrator. The procession into the Church.

Cantor Andrew Drozdik directed the choir and visiting cantors in attendance. Father Edward Cimbala The clergy and religious gather for a photograph following the Anniversary Liturgy. preached the homily.

Saint Mary’s Protection Church Celebrates with Joy Continued from previous page

ville (1904); Saint Ukrainian Catholic Church, Edwardsville (1910), and Saint John Rus- sian Orthodox Church, Edwardsville (1910). Saint Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, Wilkes-Barre was founded built soon after Saint Mary’s, Kingston was established, and faithful attended the church until theirs was completed.

Deacon Basil Soroka proclaims the Word Parish Cantor Joseph As part of the 100th anniversary, Saint Mary’s of God assisted by Deacon Edward Frey Putprush chants the Epistle. erected a Chapel in the parish cemetery, Pringle, and and John Seasock. over the years, the dedication and generosity of pa- rishioners has resulted in many restoration and new constructions to maintain the beauty and structural integrity of the church and parish grounds. High- lights include restoration efforts following Hurri- cane Agnes Flood, 1972; bell tower and roof restora- tion; and most recently for the 125th Anniversary, iconostas repainting and gold-leafing, as well as in- stallation of new tile in the Holy Place of the Church, to mention but a few projects.

The Bread of Life and the “Passing on” the faith! Cup of Immortality. The priests who served Saint Mary’s

Father Dennis Father Michael The clergy and guests in attendance Grumsey, OFM Salnicky for the Anniversary Divine Liturgy. Sunday, November 4, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 9

Kingston Parish Observes 125 Years

Mr. William Zdancewicz Father Mykhaylo Prodanets, served as Anniversary Pastor, offers remarks and Chairman and congratulations to Master of Ceremonies. parishioners and guests.

The clergy and religious gather for a photograph following the Anniversary Liturgy.

Saint Mary’s Protection Church Celebrates with Joy Continued from previous page The guests at the head table are (seated, left to right):Mr. William Zdancewicz, Very Rev. Edward Cimbala, father Of historical note, the first pastor of Saint Mykhaylo Prodanets. standing (left to right): Archiman- Jason Marcin Mary’s was Father John Wolansky, the first Byzan- drite Steven Koster, Msgr. John Sekellick, Father Mi- represented the tine Catholic Priest in America. The first recorded chael Salnicky, and Father Dennis Grumsey, OFM. ECF students. baptism was that of Anna Petrunya in 1887; the first recorded wedding was that of Alex Stetz and Julia Ondrakonski in 1887. Mention was made at the Din- ner of the oldest living member of the parish: Anna Stockage of Hunlock Creek, who will be 95 in De- cember; the most recent marriage is that of Stacey Wilmoth ad Russell Oelshlager in 2010; and the most recent baptism is that of the twins, Sophia and Amelia Nesgoda (2012), children of Nicole Wilmoth and Richard Nesgoda. Current parish trustees, representing the 125 Anniversary Committee include: President Wil- liam Dzancewicz, Joseph Simcik, Basil Lynch, Paul Some of the many guests in attendance. Gresh, Andrew Germick, Carl Knopic, Mary Ann Mehm, roger Nenni, Joseph and Eleanor Putprush, Dorothy Tribus, Steve Tribus, and Mary Ellen Yas- A magnificent anniversary cake enchak. was designed and prepared by the Bakery Delite. The priests who served Saint Mary’s

Msgr. John Archimandrite A surprise performance by the Wyoming Valley Barbershop Sekellick Steven Koster Harmony Chorus delighted all in attendance! Page 10 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, November 4, 2012

A Pilgrimage Tour Eastern European Old Calendar Easter Food Festival in the Old Country in Virginia Beach April 28 - May 10, 2013 Saturday, November 10, 2012

Join Father Ed Cimbala and Father Charles Yas- 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. tishock for a pilgrimage to the “Old Country.” Dur- ing this thirteen day tour (April 23 to May 3, 2008) we will visit Poland, Slovakia, Ukraine and Czech Our Lady of Perpetual Help Byzantine Catholic Church, Republic. The trip cost includes airfare, hotel ac- 216 South Parliament Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 commodations two meals daily, special perfor- (Off Princess Anne Road, between Newtown and Witch- mances, English speaking guide, and admis- duck Roads) sions. Taxes, fees and tips will be extra. Spend “Old Calendar” Easter in Uzhorod on Sunday, May Homemade Foods and Baked Goods for Sale 5. This will certainly be a memorable experience. Fresh and Smoked Kielbasa, Pirohi, Halupki, Haluski, Ka- pusta, Kolachi, and more! Cost will be announced shortly. For a brochure and detailed information, please contact: Religious articles and gifts, Crosses, , pysanki eggs, Father Ed Cimbala, Easter basket covers, egg covers, candles, and more! St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, Church will be open for visitation and tours. Please Join 1900 Brooks Boulevard, Us For A Taste of Eastern Europe! Hillsborough, NJ 08844 Bring in this coupon for $1.00 off food purchase! Or call 908-725-0165 For more info call Deacon Daniel at 757 490 0619. email: [email protected].

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

Christmas Market in Cary, NC Join us for our 5th Annual Saint Nicholas Christmas Market Saturday, December 1, 2012 10:00 am—4:00 pm Delicious Slavic lunch selections * Little German Band * Exhibit on the life of Saint Nicholas * New and vintage Christmas linens * Ornaments and gifts * Decorative items from around the world * European Bake Shoppe * Christmas trees * and more! Saints Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Church, 2510 Piney Plains Rd. Corner of Piney Plains/Tryon Rds, Cary, NC Follow us on Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/etss3/st-nicholas-market-bakery/Coming soon... On the web: www.saintnicholasmarket.net Phone: 919.851.9266 Sunday, November 4, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 11

Eparchial Priest Authors Book

In Festal Commemoration, a priest ecclesial year in the most important This book as well as others in of the Eparchy of Passaic, residing Marian feasts on the Byzantine Cal- Father Slesinski’s ongoing study of on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, who is endar. The book, dedicated to his the Byzantine liturgical year is pub- FAIRFAX, VA – Eastern Chris- engaged in evangelistic writing. mother, Mrs. Dorothy R. Schieffler- lished by Eastern Christian Publi- Slesinski in her ninetieth year of life, cations, P.O. Box 146, Fairfax, VA tian Publications has just issued The present work proffers a full is intended to honor all mothers of 22038-0146 or online at www.ec- another book in its list of publica- Marian catechesis that highlights all the Byzantine Catholic Metropolia pubs.com. tions, namely Father Robert F. Sles- the dogmatic and scriptural issues of Pittsburgh. inski, Ph.D.’s The Holy Theotokos: that are celebrated throughout the

Deacon Students Complete Second Year of Training Class of fifteen nearing ‘half-way ’ of diaconal journey By Edward Hara and Lawrence

and then the final class of the day is the class as they continue their jour- held 7:00-9:30 p.m. ney this year. Classes studied this year were: “My growth in diakonia (ser- Old Testament I; Unity and Trinity vice) over the past year has been of God; Theology of the Divine Lit- gradual, but the change from one urgy; Prayer; Moral Theology; the year ago to now is awe-inspiring. I Synoptic Gospels; Law, and mean this in the most sacred sense Pastoral Leadership. It is natural that of awe, of silence-inspiring amaze- different students prefer different ment at the mighty works of God in classes, but all agree that the class- my life and of the men now with me es are challenging and have helped at SS. Cyril and Methodius Byzan- them to grow as Christians over the tine Catholic Seminary. But I find past year. The goal of the classes is this amazement most manifest when not only personal growth and infor- I reflect on the Christian witness of mation on the office of the deacon, all the people I have met from the but also to help the men understand Metropolia of Pittsburgh, either in the pastoral application of what they person or by stories told to me by learn to make use of in the future, bishops, priests, deacons, monas- God willing, when they are ordained. tics, religious sisters, cantors, and the faithful of all ages and walks The sense of the deacon can- of life. I am particularly struck by didates this year was one of being the holiness and pastoral care of the more confident than they were last Byzantine Catholic Seminary faculty Seated (l. to r.): Sister Margaret Ann Andrako, Father Jason DelVitto, year. They have passed the first year and by my pastor. They are models Father John G. Petro, Dr. Sandra Collins; row 2 (l. to r.): Lawrence and not only know what to expect in I aspire to imitate. I am grateful for Monks, Nathanael Kline, Edward Hara; row 3 (l. to r.): Edward Quinn, the classroom, but are more familiar everyone’s support of me, most es- Michael Tisma, Geoffrey Mackey, James Smith, Thomas Shubeck; row 4 with what is expected of them. Dur- pecially my wife and family. I am (l. to r.): Senderak, Jeffrey Mierzejewski, Phillip Dinsmore, Carl ing the two weeks of classes, deacons inspired by how much my study Krauthauser; row 5 (l. to r.):William Hall, Gary Stafford, Brian Norrell. from the former programs who are and preparation means to so many now serving in their parish churches people. I am humbled by what I see PITTSBURGH, PA – Fifteen his excitement for the classes and his visited the seminary. This gave the before me, and ask for prayers for men from the Archeparchy of Pitts- hopes for the coming year of study; candidates an opportunity to learn by daily persistence to grow in my vo- burgh and the Eparchies of Passaic Sister Margaret Ann reviewed the observing the deacons as they helped cation as Christian husband, father, and Parma returned to the Byzantine schedules for classes, liturgy and the priest in celebrating the services. and Deacon Candidate.” Catholic Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pa. other areas. Many of the candidates have admit- Sunday, June 17 for their second year What are the two weeks like ted to imagining themselves in the Please pray for the deacon can- of studies in the Deacon Formation that we spend at the Seminary in the same place in a couple of years. didates as they return home to the Program. It is hard to believe that great responsibilities of serving their summer? Let us tell you … we dea- The feeling of the candidates in a year has gone by since we were families and their parishes while at con candidates begin each day early. this class is perhaps best expressed last here. Although we were gone the same time holding down a job, Several men may spend an hour in by a short note which was written from the Seminary, the year was one studying and completing their as- exercise before the morning service, by one of our colleagues, Nathanael of diligent work and studies. Each signments for this summer’s classes. walking around the perimeter of a Kline (Archeparchy of Pittsburgh). course taken in the summer two- nearby public park. Others choose This note conveys the sentiments of week program requires more study to have personal prayer or prepare and reading in order to complete an for morning services at 7:30 a.m. assignment for a final grade. These which, depending on the day, is ei- assignments are sent in throughout Deacon Students from the ther Divine Liturgy or Matins. After the year every six to eight weeks. the service there is time for a quick Eparchy of Passaic include: The fellowship of our special breakfast before the first class, which brotherhood was rekindled as we ar- starts at 9:15 a.m. Lunch is served at William Hall rived at the Seminary and exchanged noon, and then it is back to class from warm greetings on a beautiful Sun- 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. The free time is a Edward Hara day afternoon. After a delicious welcome opportunity for the men to Carl Krauthauser dinner, Deacon Formation Program study and do research in the library, Edward Quinn Director Father John G. Petro and contact loved ones or catch up on un- Administrator Sister Margaret Ann finished concerns with their work left James Smith Andrako presented an orientation at home. Others may socialize in the Thomas Shubeck session for the coming two weeks dining room or rest until 5:00 p.m. Michael Tisma of study. Father John shared with us Vespers. Dinner follows at 6:00 p.m. Page 12 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, November 4, 2012

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

Secularism Pope Pius XII

s he began his pontificate is morally right or wrong. Morality Holidays” by many Christians. Modern World (Gadium et spes): in 1939, our late Holy Fa- becomes a subjective judgment for “Faith throws a new light on every- A Moral failings have become ther, Pope Pius XII, of thrice-blessed what is correct based on purely per- thing and manifests God’s designs quite common place. We need think memory, issued his first encyclical sonal choice which has come to be for man’s total vocation.” (No. 11) . only of so many couples who live Summi Pontificatus which outlined known as “situation ethnics.” The together without the benefit of mar- Faith therefore when put into the direction he had in mind for the root cause of such a way of thinking riage; the burgeoning and notice- action is mindful of Jesus’ declara- Church at the time. Among his re- lies in the spirit of secularism which able problem of bullying not only in tion: “By this will all people know flections, he offered very incisive means worldly thinking or life with- schools but within the ranks of labor that you are My disciples, if you thoughts on the emerging factor of out God. Secularism is a way of as well; and the very serious issues have love for one another.” (John secularism which has come to be so thinking, living and acting based 13, 25). Essentially, this means dominant and prevalent in today’s that as Christians, according to the society. In part, he writes, “It is cer- Truly, secularism is a kind of spiritual poison. teaching of Vatican II, we “..cannot tain that the first and deeper source yearn for anything more ardently from which derive the evils which than to serve the people of the mod- afflict today’s society is the strong solely on what this world values and of abortion, assisted suicide, same- ern world ever more generously and denial and rejection of a universal esteems. sex unions – all legally sanctioned. effectively. Therefore, holding faith- norm of morality in the private life Truly, secularism is a kind of fully to the Gospel and benefiting of individuals, as well as in public More compelling, though, is the spiritual poison. It has resulted in the from its resources, and united with life and in the mutual relationships looming challenge of an antidote. completely materialistic celebration everyone who loves and practices between people and nations; namely, Our present Holy Father, Pope Bene- of Christian holy days as mere holi- justice, Christians have shouldered a the natural law is being undermined dict XVI, has called us to a Year of days lacking any authentic expres- gigantic task demanding fulfillment through criticism and disregard.” Faith. Faith is that special dynamic sion of their basis both in history in this world.” (No. 93) which stares down the spirit of the The Holy Father is pointing out and in fact. A moment’s reflection world. It puts into proper perspec- A great challenge during the Year a phenomenon which has escalated on the frenzy of seasonal gift buying tive the things of this world with of Faith, then, is a renewed and sin- in our own time, namely a pervad- soon to begin is a poignant example. those of the next, in words taken cere discernment of spiritual values ing sense of relativism which denies This is reinforced by the exchange from Vatican Council II’s Pastoral so radically eroded by secularism. any absolute understanding of what of “Seasons Greetings” and “Happy Constitution on the Church in the

Understanding Icons By Father Joseph Bertha, PhD

Saint Josaphat - First Greek Catholic Saint Tomb of St. Josaphat in Rome. November 12th

ishop Josaphat Kuncewicz, protomartyr shoulders returning them to the flock. river. His corpse was subsequently recovered and of the Greek Catholic Church, was born found to be incorrupt as proof of . B The Bishop is consecrated as the fullness of in 1584 in Volodymyr, Lithuania (present day the priesthood, he is the chief reconciler, the one Sometimes this gruesome death is depicted Ukraine). In 1596, the first union with Rome was who seeks atonement and expiation for his sins, in the icon with the very instrument of his death signed in Brest (Belarus) thus uniting the Ruthe- and the sins of the faithful in faithful imitation of piercing his head, while the holy priest martyr nian Orthodox church with the Catholic Church. Christ the eternal high priest. Abel was a shep- holds a palm frond of peace in his hand. A period He entered the Greek Catholic Basilian order of herd who offered the first offspring of his flock, of calm ensued after his brutal martyrdom. How monks in Vilnius in 1604 and was ordained a tragically that in the European homelands through priest in 1609. He died a martyr’s death by be- the centuries that the enmity between brothers re- ing struck on the head, shot, then beaten on No- I am here among you as a shepherd, turned during the tragic years of communist athe- vember 12, 1623 at Vitebsk, Belarus. The saintly and you ought to know that I would ism and created a new harvest of beatified holy martyr was then buried in Biala, Poland, and later be happy to give my life for you. bishops, priests and religious during the 20th cen- moved to the transept altar at ’s Ba- tury. The Body of Saint Josaphat was transferred silica in Rome. -Saint Josaphat to a sarcophagus Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome, The troparion of the priest-martyr, Bishop honored as the first Greek Catholic saint. Josaphat, evokes the memory of the slaughter of the first fruits, and this was accepted by God. Cain Troparion Tone 4 Abel, by his Cain and is the first recorded did not offer his best grain of the harvest to God, murder of sacred scripture, by referring to him as and his offering was rejected, which enflamed his You have become a brilliant light O priest- the shepherd. Bishops are described as shepherd- envy and jealousy towards his brother. Cain, not martyr Josaphat. You gave up your life for your ing their flocks, in imitation of Christ the Good following the path of holiness mortally sins by sheep like the Good Shepherd. You were slain by Shepherd. This characteristic is depicted in the axing his brother over the head in his fields. the lovers of schism, and you have walked into the omophorion, the ‘y’ shaped vestment worn around Holy of Holies to rest in the company of angels. O How this murder is reenacted through the the neck and shoulders reaching to the Bishop’s long-suffering saint, we make this petition to you: generations of our faith is quite stirring, as here feet in front and back. This vestment is made out Beg Christ, the Prince of Shepherds, to save our in the instance of Saint Josaphat. His own brother of lamb’s wool, and represents the role of the souls and to number us among the sheep at his monks axe him over the head and abandon him bishop as the bearer of the lost sheep around his right hand. in the fields of faith, then cast his corpse into the Sunday, November 4, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 13

Respect Life Forum By Tom Grenchik

“Suing the Administration”

Is it consistent to profess our beliefs in ment, United for Religious Freedom, this is an un- lawsuit against the Administration, Tyndale’s le- church on Sunday, and then during the precedented and extremely narrow federal defini- gal counsel stated that “Bible publishers should “week to promote business practices or tion of religion, resulting in coercion to act against be free to do business according to the book that medical procedures contrary to those beliefs?… our teachings. This violates our civil rights. they publish.” Any tendency to treat religion as a private matter Does the federal government now have the Most Americans agree. Poll after poll shows must be resisted. Only when their faith permeates power to force the Church, consisting of its faith- that Americans believe employers should not be every aspect of their lives do Christians become ful and the vast majority of its institutions, to act forced to cover birth control or potentially abor- truly open to the transforming power of the Gos- against Church teachings? As Cardinal Timothy tion-causing drugs, and especially not religious pel.” Pope Benedict XVI Dolan, President of the U.S. bishops’ Confer- employers who object to that coverage. Yet the When Pope Benedict visited the United ence, stated: “We have tried negotiation with the Administration presses on to get these court cases States in 2008, he challenged Catholics to resist Administration and legislation with the Congress dismissed. the growing governmental and societal pressure – and we’ll keep at it – but there’s still no fix. At this critical time in the life of our nation, to confine religious beliefs to houses of worship, Time is running out, and our valuable ministries the U.S. bishops have called upon the Catholic and to prevent the Church and individual believ- and fundamental rights hang in the balance, so we faithful, and all people of faith throughout our ers from living out their faith in their day-to-day have to resort to the courts now.” country, to join in prayer and penance for our po- work and care for others. Across the country, a growing list of dioceses, litical leaders and for the complete protection of The U.S. bishops have since raised numer- hospitals, schools, church agencies and employ- religious liberty. To join in the Rosary Novena for ous concerns over the increasing threats to reli- ers has filed multiple lawsuits contesting the Life and Liberty, October 14-22, or to sponsor or gious freedom. An especially serious example is HHS mandate as a violation of religious freedom. join other prayer efforts, go to www.usccb.org/ the now-finalized rule of the U.S. Department of From Christian-owned retail chains, to charities freedom. To learn more about threats to religious Health and Human Services (HHS), forcing vir- and schools, to Bible publishers, more and more freedom and conscience rights in health care, and tually all private health plans nationwide to pro- people of faith—not only Catholics—are resist- to take action, visit www.usccb.org/conscience. vide coverage of sterilization and contraception, ing the Administration’s efforts to quarantine reli- [Tom Grenchik is Executive Director of the including abortifacient drugs. While there is an gious beliefs within church walls. Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities, U.S. Confer- exemption for certain “religious employers,” it Take Tyndale House, for example. Though ence of Catholic Bishops. Go to www.usccb.org/ only covers employers that hire and serve people one of the world’s largest privately held Chris- prolife to learn more about the bishops’ pro-life of their own faith. By that definition, even Jesus tian publishers of books, Bibles, and digital me- activities.] and his apostles would not qualify. Neither would dia, they are apparently not religious enough to Mother Teresa. As the bishops noted in their state- be exempt from the HHS mandate. In its recent

Concert at Pottstown Church CDs and DVDs Now Available

POTTSTOWN, PA – A con- vocalists all are either vocal perfor- master’s degree in vocal performance cert of Eastern Slavic Music was mance or music education majors at at Westminster in the fall of 2012. recently performed by the Westmin- Westminster, a division of Westmin- Andrew also serves as the cantor and ster Slavic Choir at Saint John the ster College of the Arts, a residential music director at The Assumption of Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church, college of music located in Princeton, The Virgin Mary Byzantine Catholic Pottstown, PA where Father Nicho- N.J. Westminster is a four-year mu- Church of Trenton, NJ, where Father las DeProspero is Pastor. The well- sic college and graduate school that Gregory Noga is Pastor. The West- attended, acclaimed performance prepares men and women for careers minster Slavic Choir performs at included works by composers Bort- as professional performers and as Saint Mary Church in Trenton about niansky, Vedel, Tchaikovsky, Rim- music leaders in schools, universi- once a month. Andrew also assists at sky-Korsakov, and Hurko, as well ties, churches, and professional and Saint John Church in Pottstown, his To obtain a copy of the DVD as traditional chant. Selections were community music organizations. As home parish and where he first be- and/or CD, please email Andrew at performed in English as well as Old Westminster Choir College students, gan cantoring. Recently Andrew par- [email protected] or write Slavonic. the talented young men and women ticipated in a seminar focusing on the to him at 101 Walnut Lane, Princ- of the Slavic Choir join their peers in interpretation of Slavic church music eton, NJ 08540, and include your A professionally produced DVD performing with the world’s leading at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Seminary preference and quantity as well as and CD of a recent concert of sacred orchestras in venues ranging from with leading expert Vladimir Gorbik, your mailing address. CD’s are $15 hymns and other liturgical music the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia to choral director at the Moscow Repre- and DVD’s are $20. A 2 CD set of of the Eastern Slavic tradition per- Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in sentation Church of the Holy Trinity- Resurrection Matins & Divine Lit- formed by the Westminster Slavic New York. St. , and Artistic urgy is available for $20. The choir Choir now is available. Director and Conductor of the pro- is also available for concert and li- The chamber choir is directed The Westminster Slavic Choir fessional men’s chorus formed at the turgical performance – contact Mr. by Andrew Skitko, a native of Pott- features students of Westminster Metochion in Moscow, Russia. Skitko for booking information. stown, PA. Andrew is beginning his Choir College, Princeton, NJ. The

The Original Cookbook of Favorite Slavic Recipes Price: $5.00 (postage included) Send to: Favorite Slavic Recipe, Holy Spirit Byzantine Catholic Church 360 Clinton St., Binghamton, PA 13905 Page 14 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, November 4, 2012

Eparchial Priest Retreat 2012 - Photo Highlights Photos by Father James Hayer

Retreat - Continued from page 1. God’s mercy and wisdom. Father Bertha reflected on each of the four iconographic panels depicting the life of the Patriarch Joseph and his relationship with his brothers, and challenged the priests to consider how this informs, impacts, and helps integrate Christ’s mercy into their life and ministry. His uplifting and encouraging words - both at the con- ferences and at the Divine Liturgy - were well received by the clergy, who acknowledged him with a hearty round of ap- plause and the singing of Many years! at the conclusion of the retreat. Father Cimbala thanked Father Bertha for his words to the presbyterate. He also acknowledged those who organized The Akathist to the Mother of God Retreat Master - the retreat, celebrated the services, and assisted with the can- was celebrated by Father Bertha. Father Joseph Bertha, PhD toring responsibilities. The San Alphonso Chapel was used for the daily ser- vices of Morning Prayer, Divine Liturgy, the Service of Holy Anointing, and the Parastas for all departed clergy. A particu- larly moving event each year is the celebration of the Office of Holy Anointing. At this service, Father Edward Cimbala, Fa- ther Joseph Bertha, and Father Edward Higgins administered the sacramental Mystery of Holy Anointing to each priest for the healing of soul and body. As the priests were anointed, the celebrants prayed that all would be spiritually and physically healthy for the great demands of the priestly life. The facilities of San Alphonso not only provide a place for the divine services to be celebrated in a gracious atmo- sphere, but also promote camaraderie and fellowship. The tranquility of the ocean breeze, the sounds of the breaking waves, and the solitude of a private boardwalk with gazebo and benches were more than conducive for quiet meditation, Father Cimbala thanks Father Bertha Sharing a thought are Fathers Michael on behalf of the priests Popson (l.) and Eduard Sestak (r.). of the Eparchy of Passaic.

Some friendly conversation over pizza marks the end of a very good day! Msgr. John T. Sekellick Father Michael Yurista receives anointing incenses the chapel. from Father Edward Higgins.

Father Joseph Bertha (l. to r.): Fathers Frank Hanincik, Michael Salnicky, Listening attentively to the conference presentations. anoints Father Vasyl Chepelskyy. and Gary Mensinger. Sunday, November 4, 2012 Eastern Catholic Life Page 15

Eparchial Priest Retreat 2012 - Photo Highlights Photos by Father James Hayer

prayer, and reflection. The priests often took advantage of the scenic solitude to sit quietly at sunrise or sunset gazing upon the majesty of God’s creation. Likewise, the boardwalk also served as a valuable place to walk and chat after meals, in between sessions, or at the end of the day. There is nothing like the seascape to remind us of the beauty and majesty of God’s grandeur as found in creation. Each afternoon, there was free time to relax in the sun, walk on the beach or visit local religious institutions to further one’s retreat from the cares and concerns of parochial life. The clergy left for home on Thursday morning knowing that what they took home in their hearts would be demon- strated in their celebration of the Holy Mysteries and expe- rienced in their daily ministries with parishioners and neigh- bors alike! The tranquil waters calm the spirit.

Father Gregory Hosler Father Jack Custer Father Edward Higgins Father Cimbala prays over the priests while chants the Epistle. leads the singing. proclaims the Good News. Father Bertha and Father Higgins hold the open Book of Holy Gospels.

Father Scott Father Michael Boghossian leads Kerestes cantors The priests look over a selection of Morning Prayers. vespers. imported vestments and liturgical items. Father Gregory Noga chants the Word of God.

(l. to r.) Fathers Harry Untereiner, Joseph Bertha, (l. to r.): Fathers Frank Hanincik, Michael Salnicky, (l. to r.): Fathers Joseph Bertha, Edward and Leonard Martin, SJ. and Gary Mensinger. Cimbala, and Michael Mondik. Page 16 Eastern Catholic Life Sunday, November 4, 2012

The Order of Divine Services For Cantors, Chanters, and Faithful Arranged by David M. Petras, SEOD

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 THANKSGIVING DAY: TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY AFTER PENTE- Our Holy Father John Chrysostom, Mitigation of Fasting. Epistle, 1 Timothy 6:6-11.17- COST. Our Venerable Father Joannicus the of Constantinople. 19; Gospel, Luke 12:13-15.22-31 (25th Monday) or Great. The Holy Martyr Nicander, Bishop of Luke 12:42-48 (25th Tuesday). Common for Bishop. Epistle, Hebrews 7:26-8:2; Myra. The Priest Hermas. Gospel, John 10:9-16. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23 Resurrection Tone 6. Epistle, Ephesians 2:4-10; WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Postfestive Day of the Entrance. Our Holy Fa- Gospel, Luke 8:41-56. thers Amphilochius, Bishop of Iconium and The Holy and Illustrious Apostle Phillip. Our MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Gregory, Bishop of Agrigento. Holy Father Gregory Palamas, Archbishop of The Holy Martyrs Galaction and Episteme. Thessalonica. Common for Bishops. Epistle, 1 Timothy 3:4-8.16; Gospel, Luke 19:12-28. Common for Many Martyrs. Epistle, 1 Thessalo- Common for Apostle. Epistle, 1 Corinthians 4:9-16; nians 2:20-3:8. Gospel, John 1:43-51. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 24 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6 PHILLIP’S FAST Postfestive Day of the Entrance. The Holy Great Martyr Catherine. The Holy Great Martyr Mer- Our Father Paul the , Archbishop of According to the forty-day tradition, the Phillip’s cury. Constantinople. Fast in preparation for Christmas begins on this Commons for Woman Martyr and Martyr. Epistle, Common for Confessor).Epistle, 1 Thessalonians Thursday. The Ruthenian Metropolia has identified Galatians 3:8-12; Gospel, Luke 10:19-21. 3:9-13; Luke 12:42-48. this period as a penitential season. This fast may be observed voluntarily, partially or in its entirety. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 25 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15 TWENTY-SIXTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTE- The Holy Thirty-Three Martyrs at Melitene. Our COST. Otdanije (Leave-taking) of the Feast of Venerable Father Lazarus, the Wonder-Worker, The Holy Martyrs and Gurias, Samo- the Entrance. Our Holy Fathers and Martyrs who fasted in the hills of Galilee. nas and Habib. Clement, Pope of Rome and Peter, Bishop of Al- Common for Many Martyrs. Epistle, 2 Thessalo- Commons for Many Martyrs and 8 Venerable. Epis- exandria. tle, 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12; Gospel, Luke 12:48-59. nians 2:13-3:5; Gospel, Luke 16:1-9. Resurrection Tone 1. Epistle, Ephesians 5:9-19; FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Gospel, Luke 13:10-17. The Holy Apostle and Evangelist Matthew. SYNAXIS OF THE HOLY ARCHANGEL MI- MONDAY, NOVEMBER 26 CHAEL AND ALL ANGELIC POWERS. Common for Apostle. Mitigation of the Fast. Epis- Our Venerable Father Alypius the . Com- tle, 1 Corinthians 4:9-16; Gospel, Matthew 9:9-13. Solemn Holyday. Epistle, Hebrews 2:2-10; Gospel, memoration of the Dedication of the Church of Luke 10:16-21. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17 the Holy Great Martyr in Kiev. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Our Holy Father Gregory the Wonder-Work- Common for Venerable.Epistle, 1 Timothy 5:1-10; Gospel, Luke 19:37-44. Our Venerable Mother Matrona. er, Bishop of Neocaesarea. The Passing of the Blessed Martyr Josaphat Kocylovskyj, Bishop of Theoctista of Lesbos. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Peremyshal (1947). Common for Venerable Women. Epistle, 1 Thessa- The Holy Martyr James the Persian. Our Ven- Common for Bishop. Epistle, Galatians 1:3-10; lonians 5:9-13.24-28; Gospel, Luke 13:31-35. erable Father Palladius. The Holy Icon of the Gospel, Luke 9:57-62. Mother of God, called “the Sign.” SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 10 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Common for Martyr). Epistle, 1 Timothy 5:11-21; The Holy Apostles Erastus, Olympas and Rho- Luke 19:45-48. dion and Their Companions TWENTY-FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTE- COST. The Holy Martyrs Plato and Roman. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Common for Apostles. Epistle, 2 Corinthians 11:1- Resurrection Tone 8. Epistle, Ephesians 4:1-6. 6; Gospel, Luke 9:37-43. The Holy Venerable Martyr Stephen the Young- er. The Holy Martyr Irenarchus. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11 MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Common for Venerable Martyr. Epistle, 1 Timothy TWENTY-FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER PEN- The Holy Prophet Obadiah. The Holy Martyr 5:22-6:11; Gospel, Luke 20:1-8. TECOST. The Holy Martyrs Menas, Victor and Barlaam. Vincent. The Holy Martyr Stephanis. Our Vener- Commons for Prophet and Martyr. Epistle, 1 Timo- THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29 able Father and Confessor the Studite. thy 1:1-7; Gospel, Luke 17:20-25. The Holy Martyr Paramon. The Holy Martyr Resurrection Tone 7. Epistle, Ephesians 2:14-22; TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Philemon. Our Venerable Father Acacius, men- Gospel, Luke 10:25-37. tioned in The Ladder of Saint John (Climacus). Prefestive Day of the Entrance of the Mother MONDAY, NOVEMBER 12 of God. Our Venerable Father Gregory the De- Common for Many Martyrs. Epistle, 1 Timothy 6:17-21; Gospel, Luke 20:9-18. Our Venerable Father John the Merciful, Patri- capolite. Our Holy Father Proclus, Archbishop of Constantinople. Our Blessed Mother Josaphata arch of Alexandria. Our Venerable Father Nilus. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30 The Holy Martyr Josaphat, Archbishop of Po- Hordashevska. The Holy and Glorious Apostle Andrew the First- lotsk. Common for Bishop. Epistle, 1 Timothy 1:8-14; called. Commons for Bishop and Venerable. Epistle, 2 Luke 17:26-37. Common for Apostle. Epistle, 1 Corinthians 4:9-16; Thessalonians 1:1-10; Gospel, Luke 14:1.12-15. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Gospel, John 1:35-51. FEAST OF THE ENTRANCE OF THE MOTH- SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1 ER OF GOD INTO THE TEMPLE. The Holy Prophet Nahum. Eastern Catholic Life Solemn Holyday. Mitigation of the Fast. Epistle, Circulation Department Hebrews 9:1-7; Gospel, Luke 10:38-42; 11:27-28. Common for Prophet. Epistle, Galatians 5:22-6:2; Gospel, Luke 12:32-40 445 Lackawanna Avenue THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2 Woodland Park, NJ 07424 Postfestive Day of the Entrance. The Holy Apos- Next Issue: tle Philemon and His Companions. The Holy TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PEN- Martyrs Cecilia, Valerian, Tiburtius and Maxi- TECOST. The Holy Prophet Habakkuk. December 2, 2012 mus. Resurrection Tone 2. Epistle: Ephesians 6:10-17; Copy Deadline: Common for Apostle. Epistle, 1 Timothy 3:1-13; Gospel: Luke 18:18-27. November 17th Gospel, Luke 18:31-34. The current issue of the ECL was printed at Evergreen Printing, Bellmawr, NJ and was distributed from the U.S. Post Office via second class Eastern Catholic Life mailing in Bellmawr, NJ. 445 Lackawanna Avenue, Woodland Park NJ 07424