Volume 58 No. 1 January 2014 VOLUME 58 NO. 1 JANUARY 2014 COVER: THEOPHANY BY THE HAND OF editor’s letter KH. ERIN KIMMETT OF NORWOOD, contents MASSACHUSETTS.

3 EDITORIAL Engaging Older by JOHN

4 DESIRE, SCRIPTURE, AND CHANGE: Members in Ministry READING THE BIBLE IN THE ORTHODOX TRADITION by Fr. John Oliver

9 DAILY DEVOTIONS Recently I was invited to address the annual conference of the Orthodox Christian Asso- 10 LOVE YOUR ENEMIES by Fr. Andrew Harmon ciation of Medicine, Psychology and Religion, an interdisciplinary group that offers oppor- 14 WORLD COUNCIL • visiting people who are shut in; OF CHURCHES’ STATEMENT tunities for Orthodox caregivers to share their experiences and learn from each other. It struck • running afternoon programs for older The Most Reverend parishioners; Metropolitan PHILIP, D.H.L., D.D. 19 REFLECTING ON REFLECTIONS me that this organization offers us a model that by Fr. Joseph Allen, Th.D. could revitalize our parishes and enrich our • ushering and welcoming people to the The Most Reverend members’ lives. It would take an investment services; Archbishop JOSEPH 22 ARCHDIOCESAN OFFICE of energy on the part of the leadership of our • reaching out to the community, includ- The Right Reverend Bishop ANTOUN 24 HELP THE ORPHANS parishes, but the positive possibilities are many ing holding open houses; OF WAR IN SYRIA • helping at food pantries; The Right Reverend by Dianne O’Regan and exciting. Bishop BASIL • helping with summer church day Our conference topic this year was ministry to The Right Reverend 26 COMMUNITIES IN ACTION camps. Bishop THOMAS older Christians. As they retire from employ- Doing ministry is very rewarding. Older Chris- The Right Reverend 32 ORATORICAL FESTIVAL ment, our older members present great oppor- Bishop ALEXANDER tunities and challenges for the parish. This po- tians need to mentor others and share their The Right Reverend ON FAITH God-given talents and wisdom. For the experi- Bishop JOHN 34 tential workforce, ready and able to serve, has by G. Philip Sayegh ence to be most worthwhile, the ministries of The Right Reverend much to offer every age segment of the parish, Bishop ANTHONY especially their own. To develop and support the older Christians need to be supported. People The Right Reverend ministries of older Orthodox Christians, I think need tools to complete their tasks; they may Bishop NICHOLAS need to de-brief after new experiences; and Founded in Arabic as an interdisciplinary group of medical people, Al Kalimat in 1905 people in the helping ministries, and theologi- they may need support from others who know by Saint Raphael (Hawaweeny) more about the particular tasks at hand. Founded in English as cally equipped church leaders, who can and will The WORD in 1957 meet regularly, is essential. This group would Assembling an interdisciplinary group of doc- by Metropolitan ANTONY (Bashir) act as resources to develop and then support tors, nurses, social workers, counselors and Editor in Chief The Rt. Rev. Bishop JOHN, D.Min. the ministries of our older members. clergy should be a first step. Identifying the Assistant Editor Christopher Humphrey, Ph.D. needs and creating a plan to engage and recruit Editorial Board The Very Rev. Joseph J. Allen, Th.D. Older members may not have had time to at- Anthony Bashir, Ph.D. Letters to the editor are welcome and should include the author’s full name and tend adult education programs while they were older members would follow. Finally, parish The Very Rev. Antony Gabriel, Th.M. parish. Submissions for “Communities in Action” must be approved by the local leaders would recruit particular people for par- Ronald Nicola pastor. Both may be edited for purposes of clarity and space. All submissions, in working. They could now be invited to join ex- Najib E. Saliba, Ph.D. hard copy, on disk or e-mailed, should be double-spaced for editing purposes. isting study groups, or study groups designed ticular jobs. From there, only God knows what The Very Rev. Paul Schneirla, M.Div. for them could be established. We must not as- He will do in the lives of all those who engage Design Director Donna Griffin Albert ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION: U.S.A. and Canada, $20.00 in new ministries or are served by them! Learn- Member sume that older members are confident in their Foreign Countries, $26.00 The Associated Church Press understandings of the worship, tradition or life ing how to serve and be served is important for Single Copies, $3.00 Conciliar Press of the Church. Needed ministries of the church all of us. Ecumenical News International The WORD (USPS626-260) is published monthly, except July and August, by the Orthodox Press Service Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America at 358 Mountain should be identified, and older Christians could I welcome for The WORD reports of such min- Editorial Office: Road, PO Box 5238; periodicals postage paid at Englewood, New Jersey 07631- be matched to ministries according to their istries that are ongoing, looking for parishes to The WORD 5238 and at additional mailing offices. 2 Lydia’s Path competencies and interests. These ministries share how and why they do things the way that Westborough, MA 01581-1841 Postmaster send address changes to: The WORD, 358 Mountain Road, PO Box could include they do, so that other parishes can share in the e-mail: [email protected] 5238, Englewood, NJ 07631-5238 ISSN 0043-7964 www.antiochian.org. successes. Subscription Office: • transporting older members to social 358 Mountain Road Canada Post Publications Agreement No. 40065483 events, the doctor, and the grocery store; PO Box 5238 Return Canada address to: Englewood, NJ 07631-5238 Atlas International Mail, PO Box 1051, Fort Erie, ON, L2A 6C7, Canada • mentoring and tutoring young people; Bishop JOHN

2 January 2014 The Word 3 It is the conviction of the Orthodox Christian In sharp relief against this creation narrative Desire, Scripture, and Change tradition that no insights and awakenings, no dis- of theocratic violence and its detritus, there is coveries by great minds and grand movements, Yahweh, the biblical God, who creates the entire- READING THE BIBLE IN THE ORTHODOX TRADITION no truths gained by human experience are more ty of the non-human world on purpose, declaring foundational to our well-being than this: there is it good.1 Then, in a kind of sweeping crescendo, I was invited to participate in a symposium a God, who is a God of desire, who, with love be- He makes man “according to Our image and like- held on Sunday, November 3, 2013, at the yond measure, desires us. ness.” Here, the desire for us that is part of God’s Islamic Community Center, in Murfreesboro, This is the central reality, known not by what own energies is imparted to the man made in His Tennessee – the mosque that has generated man can intuit – for the created cannot penetrate image, so that man will desire God in return. This international attention and even more lo- the mystery of the uncreated – but in what God is the dance of salvation: God’s pursuit and man’s cal passion. The title of the symposium was has revealed. It undergirds more than history; response, the created following the sometimes- it is always the present pulse and breath of life, tender, sometimes-terrifying lead of the Uncreat- “God’s Books: Reading Scripture in Judaism, and without embracing it above all other gospels ed, and it is at play in every moment of every act Christianity, and Islam,” and speakers includ- – that God desires us – the human being is less of reading sacred text. We read not firstly to study ed two Muslim, one Catholic Christian, one than human and His books are less than compre- or acquire, but to surrender. “Thou hast made us Protestant Christian, one Jew, and me. What hensible. for Thyself,” wrote Augustine, “and our hearts follows is the full text of my address. The creation narrative of Genesis reveals a find no peace until they rest in Thee.”2 God who creates; in the context of other creation narratives of its era, it reveals a God who creates Interpretation Centered on Christ and pursues. The Sumerian culture, from which the biblical Abraham came, was propped up in The content of God’s desire is not manifest part by a belief in multiple deities who produced in the abstract nor contained by reason, neither creation in a fit of rage. Marduk, the most pow- is it even primarily spiritual. It is more than an “there is a God, erful of the junior gods, tears open the body of ephemeral sense discerned in sacred writ by an who is a God his mother, Tiamat, and her interior contents be- open heart. The Christian Bible describes God as comes the sky, the stars, the heavenly galaxies, desiring to meet His creatures in a variety of con- of desire, 3 the earth and all its vegetation. To tend to this crete and particular media: in Scripture itself, in who, with 4 5 material mess – a task with which no god would His Temple, in the world of nature, in the poor 6 love dirty its hands – Marduk creates man, a neces- and “least of these,” even in the trembling urgen- 7 beyond sary slave to manage creation and build temples cy of our own pain. measure, to the gods. But more than all this, to His desire for us God has given a specifically incarnational contour. desires us.” For the Sumerians, creation erupted from a violent matricide in the heavenly realm, with hu- God is the God of desire, yes, but it is equally manity created as a regrettable afterthought, a the conviction of the Orthodox Christian tradition worldview that favored the interests of the power- that God demonstrates His desire in and as the ful and educated elite, who occupied the same tier Christ. “But God showed His great love toward in the material world that the gods occupied in us,” writes the apostle Paul, “in that while we 8 the spiritual world, by dividing the world between were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Indeed, this the powerful and the powerless, between the ben- conviction extends to the scandalous belief that eficiaries of slave labor and slaves themselves. God’s desire is only manifest, only perfect, only This, they believed, is how the gods intended the true, only beautiful, only final, only complete, world to be. only begun, sustained, and finished in the Christ,

4 January 2014 The Word 5 Reading the Bible

the theanthropos, the God-Man. Because, for the Totus Christus, Caput et Corpus Orthodox, it is only in Christ that the uncreated It is not the person of Lao Tzu that matters and the created meet (with His mother Mary serv- in Taoism, but his teachings; it is not the person ing as the cathedral), it is only in Christ that all of the Buddha that matters in Buddhism, but his hunger for knowledge and meaning feasts upon teachings; it is not the person of Plato that mat- the banquet of the divine and unchanging. ters in the philosophical system of Platonism, but The Bible of Christian Orthodoxy contains al- his teachings. Christianity, however, and its entire most a million words, but we believe the Father structure, rests upon and derives its very life from fundamentally speaks only one: “In the beginning the Person of its Founder. “Who do you say that I was the Word, and the Word was with God, and am?”11 asks in the central question of Chris- the Word was God … and the Word became flesh tian Scripture. and dwelt among us.”9 God utters forth a single The authentic search for the answer, also called Incarnate Logos – He whom the great fifth-cen- the Christian life, unfolds in the mystery of the tury Church Council in Chalcedon called “perfect Church. The christological way of interpretation in Godhead and perfect in humanity, truly God is inseparable from its ecclesial context; compre- and truly human … acknowledged in two natures hension of the divine is chiefly a communal privi- Preach the Church alone, to the exclusion of teries during the penitential season of Great Lent, without confusion, without change, without divi- lege. Prophets, apostles, and saints mostly emerge Christ, and all we have is a social club or a mecha- we read this: “A complete state of purity is the sion, without separation.” 13 from the community, and it is for the benefit of nism for the preservation of culture, or worse, a foundation of theology.” Theology may be iden- This is – in a paradox that can only come from the community that God reveals Himself to them, mob held together by shared superstitions. Preach tified currently as a purely academic discipline, the arithmetic of love – the great self-emptying a revelation written down, compiled, edited, and the Church alone and she is sure to degenerate but the word meant something more for John Cli- of God who cannot be emptied, the conception canonized by the community. Early Latin Chris- into a religious system of power and intimidation. macus, author of The Ladder. For him, and the of the Inconceivable, the appearance of the Invis- tians would say totus christus, caput et corpus – The consensus of the Orthodox tradition, tradition in which he wrote, “a theologian is one ible, the revelation of what the Indescribable is 14 we preach the “whole Christ, head and body.” The though we have historically taken our turn tilt- who prays and one who prays is a theologian.” really like and how far the Uncircumscribed will Christian Bible is a book of the Church, revealed ing toward both errors, is that there is no Christ- True theology, narrowly defined, uncommonly really go to save His creation; the divine becomes to the Church, in a spiritual vocabulary discern- less Church and no Church-less Christ. In God’s found, is the direct, unmediated experience of human so that, through an exchange of natures, ible by the Church: language, asceticism, creed, book within Christendom, Christ is identified with God. To read a book about astronauts is not the the human may become divine. tradition, sacrament, liturgy. Today, the individual His Church, and the Church is identified with her same as suiting up and launching into space; to Christ is the reason why a definition of God as Orthodox reading Scripture checks his experience Christ: Bridegroom and Bride, Head and body, King read a book about swimming is not the same as “the Transcendent” is entirely true but only half- against the experience of the community and the and people, Pastor and flock, Master and disciples, stripping down and jumping into the pool. Simi- right. God is not merely the Other; He is the im- consensus of the ages, for he understands this Vine and branches, Cornerstone and temple. larly, to read a book about God is not the same minent Other: transcendent, yet, according to Or- to be part of what it means “that no prophecy of as theologizing or believing or even possessing a thodox teaching on the Incarnation, the perfect Scripture is of any private interpretation.”12 From Book to Reader spiritual life. archetype of the human being and the way to our So, God desires, Christ accomplishes, the When reading God’s books, the text provides Imagine a wall with two windows, the glass in own true humanity. Because Christ is “the bright- Church receives. Preach Christ alone, to the exclu- one part of understanding, the reader provides one covered with dirt and grime, obscuring the ness of [God’s] glory, and the express image of sion of the Church, and all we have is an abstrac- the other. How do we recognize God in the books radiance of the sun and failing to do what a win- His person,”10 an Orthodox reading of Scripture tion, a flexible figure co-opted by various groups we hold dear? How do we discern the divine dow is designed to do, the glass in the other clean is primarily christocentric. Every act of reading through the centuries, a champion claimed by within the patently human enterprise of writing, and clear, revealing the radiance of the sun and God’s books is both an encounter with His rap- wildly contrasting causes, a malleable mystic who editing, and transmitting text? What is the foun- doing what a window is designed to do. “A com- turous desire to reach us, and the search of His floats above the ground and grounding of history. dation of a theology that does not merely tickle plete state of purity is the foundation of theology” singular Word in whom, by whom, and through Preach Christ alone and He is vulnerable to the the mind but transforms a life? suggests that, in order to experience God in all whom we are reached. same confusions affixed to Holy Scripture when In The Ladder of Divine Ascent, an exalted His glorious Light, the mind of a person or, to use 15 one preaches text alone: the object can be twisted text of the Orthodox tradition, written in the sixth the biblical term, the nous of a person, must be and interpreted to mean just about anything. century and still read aloud each day in monas- clean and clear. (The nous is not simply the rea- “ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God … and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”

6 January 2014 The Word 7 Reading the Bible

soning faculty, but tellect and reason are sacred faculties, as organic least, the yearning to be transfigured. the intuitive sense to the image of God within us as is the desire for It is this yearning that is captured in the prayer for perceiving the Him, but useful primarily as tools for organizing read by the priest just prior to the public proc- DAILY DEVOTIONS divine, like a radio and expressing knowledge of God previously dis- lamation of Holy Scripture in the , FEBRUARY 2014 V. Rev. Fr. George Alberts antenna that picks cerned through noetic experience. The apostles, the weekly and highest celebration of the Word of up signals through symbolic, here, of all christified humanity, could God in the Orthodox tradition. Indeed, it is also the air.) The first identify the single incarnate Logos hidden in “the an ideal summary: window may have Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms” Illumine our hearts, O Master who 1. 1 THESSALONIANS 5:14-23 nice curtains and because “He opened their understanding, that lovest mankind, with the pure light of LUKE 17:3-10 16 decorative trim, they might comprehend the Scriptures.” Thy divine knowledge; and open the 2. HEBREWS 7:7-17; LUKE 2:22-40 but not be a chan- A life of humility and repentance, therefore, eyes of our mind to the understanding of MEETING OF CHRIST IN THE nel for the sun. of self-emptying love, remains a more trustwor- Thy Gospel teachings; implant in us also TEMPLE We may generate thy way to read God’s books than any intent to the fear of Thy blessed commandments, 3. 1 PETER 2:21-3:9; MARK 12:13-17 interesting ideas imagine or conceptualize or systematize, or even that trampling down all carnal desires 4. 1 PETER 3:10-22; MARK 12:18-27 about God, even to understand God, all of which lies at the root we may enter upon a spiritual manner 5. 1 PETER 4:1-11; MARK 12:28-37 performing deeds of so much theological malevolence. Heresy is of living, both thinking and doing such (FAST) in His Name, but what happens when bright minds are seduced by things as are well-pleasing unto Thee. 6. 1 PETER 4:12-5:5; MARK 12:38-44 still have no ex- their own glow. The subtle craving for original- For Thou art the Illumination of our 7. 2 PETER 1:1-10; MARK 13:1-8 (FAST) perience of God ity or acclaim enters like a splinter in the mind, souls and bodies, O Christ our God, and 8. 2 TIMOTHY 2:11-19; LUKE 18:2-8 9. 2 TIMOTHY 3:10-15; LUKE 18:10-14 10. 2 PETER 1:20-2:9; MARK 13:9-13 St. John Climacus “a theologian is one who prays and one who prays is a theologian” 11. 2 PETER 2;9-22; MARK 13:14-23 12. 2 PETER 3:1-18; MARK 13:24-31 Himself. The second window may be simpler, but indiscernible at first but gradually warping whole unto Thee we ascribe glory, together with 13. 1 JOHN 1:8-2:6; MARK 13:31-14:2 also be a clear channel for the sun. We may not thought processes until what comes out bears no Thy Father who is from everlasting, and 14. 1 JOHN 2:7-17; MARK 14:3-9 have impressive accomplishments or worldly so- resemblance to the Scriptures or the saints or the Thine all-holy and good and life-giving 15. 2 TIMOTHY 3:1-9; LUKE 20:46-21:4 phistication, yet we stand as clear channels who Savior Himself. Gregory of Nyssa put the whole Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of 16. 1 CORINTHIANS 6:12-20 know God and make Him known. matter succinctly: “Concepts create idols; only ages. Amen. LUKE 15:11-32 Reading God’s books rightly, therefore, de- wonder grasps anything.” God desires, Christ accomplishes, the Church 17. 1 JOHN 2:18-3:10; MARK 11:1-11 pends on the purity of our nous, the “eye of the receives, and the readers respond, purify, par- 18. 1 JOHN 3:11-20; MARK 14:10-42 19. 1 JOHN 3:21-4:6; MARK 14:43-15:1 soul,” the spiritual “pilot light” that is either bright Experience and Illumination ticipate, think, doubt, struggle, and, by the grace (FAST) or dim. What illumines or darkens the nous is the of God, change. This process of illumination, You step into the afternoon light and feel the 20. 1 JOHN 4:20-5:21; MARK 15:1-15 grace of the Holy Spirit in response to the kind of warmth of the sun on your face. Inspired, you though admittedly not always foundational to Or- 21. 2 JOHN 1:1-13; life we lead, the thoughts we entertain, the choic- write a poem about your experience, a lovely re- thodox practice, is foundational to Orthodox life, MARK 15:22-25, 33-41 es we make, the time we spend, and whatever it is flection in precise wording, careful meter, perhaps so the question of how we understand Scripture 22. 1 CORINTHIANS 10:23-28 that we allow to pass through our senses of sight, with rhyming couplets. The poem is iconograph- is inseparable from the question of how we un- LUKE 21:8-9, 25-27, 33-36 hearing, smell, taste, and touch. This “complete ic, something real that, by some mystery, points derstand anything. What the great books tell us, 23. 1 CORINTHIANS 8:8-9:2 state of purity” will also determine how to apply toward something more real. But while it serves at least, is that, with love beyond measure, the MATTTHEW 25:31-46 24. 2 JOHN 1:1-15; LUKE 19:29-4, rightly the varied forms of textual criticism, for as the best ordering and articulation of that expe- Uncreated has lifted the veil, and creation is no 22:7-39 (FAST) example, literary or historical, that we associate rience, it is not the same as the experience. longer in darkness. 25. JUDE 1:1-10; LUKE 22:39-42, with a more rigorous study of God’s books. New There is no substitute for reading, or for some What else can creation do but dance? interpretations in academia will have to resonate 45-23:1 (FAST) purposeful taking in of God’s books. St Isaac Fr. John Oliver, St. Elizabeth Orthodox Church 26. JOEL 2:12-26; JOEL 3:12-21 (FAST) with unchanging realities discerned noetically, or the Syrian, one of the most-quoted fathers of 1. Genesis 1:3. 27. JUDE 1:11-25; LUKE 23:2-34, 44-56 spiritually. The Orthodox reading of the Bible, such 2. Confessions, New York: Penguin Books, 1961, 21. the Orthodox tradition, studied the Bible so in- 3. II Timothy 3:14–17. (FAST) as St Basil’s fourth-century On the Holy Spirit, 4. Psalm 63:1–2; Psalm 95:5. tensely that he literally went blind in the process. 5. Psalm 19:1–4. 28. ZECHARIAH 8:7-17; which devotes almost one-third of its length to 6. Matthew 25. He could not read about the wooing lover in the 7. Psalm 37:1–9. ZECHARIAH 8:19-23 (FAST) the role of prepositions in Scripture, accepts the Song of Solomon without being wooed; he could 8. Romans 5:8. critical tools of each era, but critically. In time, all 9. John 1:1, 14. not read about the dazzling darkness of Mt. Sinai 10. Hebrews 1:3: ὃς ὢν ἀπαύγασμα τῆς δόξης καὶ χαρακτὴρ τῆς ὑποστάσεως αὐτοῦ. reformations need reform, all new insights need without being dazzled; he could not read about 11. Mark 8:29. renewal, for is this not the nature of learning? In- 12. II Peter 1:20. the transfiguring light of Mt. Tabor without, at 13. St. John Climacus, The Ladder of Divine Ascent, 30.20 (Bos- ton, Mass.: Holy Transfiguration Monastery, 1991), 227. 14. Evagrius of Pontus, Chapters on Prayer, 60. 15. Philippians 2:5: “Let this nous [mind] be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” 8 January 2014 16. Luke 24:44–45. The Word 9 We chuckle at how the trucker handled the situation 13, Eerdmans, p. 333). and probably can’t help but admire him some, but There are different ways of achieving this goal of ... that is not Jesus’ way to handle enemies! How did not having enemies. Years ago, a mafia boss on the our Lord say to respond to situations where enemies island of Sicily was on his death bed. He called for confront us? In His Sermon on the Mount, Christ the local priest to come see him and hear his con- told us, “Love your enemies.” It’s natural for us to fession. He had decided he wanted to get right with seek revenge, like the truck driver did – but “natu- God before he died. The priest came and, before he ral” isn’t always good! As Christians we are called to began to administer the sacraments, said, “Part of a higher way of life. The Lord Himself told us about getting ready to die is that you need to forgive all this. As He said in Luke 6: 32–35: your enemies.” The mafia boss said, “Father, I don’t “If you love those who love you, what credit have any enemies.” The priest was surprised and is that to you? For even sinners love those who said, “That’s amazing! After all the years of your vio- love them. And if you do good to those who do lent and criminal life, you must have enemies!” The good to you, what credit is that to you? For even mafia replied, “No, Father, I really don’t have any sinners do the same. And if you lend to those enemies. I killed them all” (Michael Ignatieff, Isaiah from whom you hope to receive, what credit Berlin, Metropolitan Books, 1998, p. 228). is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to That’s not the right way to end up with no en- receive as much again. But love your enemies, emies! We do need to take action, however, to stop and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in re- having enemies, even drastic action if necessary. St. turn; and your reward will be great, and you will John of Alexandria was the Patriarch of Alexandria, be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the Egypt, many centuries ago. One day he was serv- ungrateful and selfish.” ing the Divine Liturgy, and as he was lifting up the A very radical idea! Loving friends? That’s usually bread and wine at the altar to God, he remembered not too hard. But to love our enemies? Very unusual, something: he had had a falling out with a priest in a very difficult. And that’s what Christ wants us to do. nearby parish that week. St. John felt that he himself As always, Jesus Christ practiced what He was at least partly to blame for their argument. He ENE preached. Jesus just didn’t say, “Love your enemies”; realized, too, that he hadn’t fixed the problem. So R MI He really did it! When He was put on the cross, did he put the holy gifts down on the altar, bowed to the U E He curse out those who did it to Him? Did He call people saying, “I will return soon” and walked right O S down lightning or angry angels to “take out” those out of the church. He left and found the priest and Y killing Him? He certainly could have done that. But talked with him and apologized to him. They were He didn’t. Instead, He loved them and prayed for reconciled and all was well between them. Then St. them – “Father, forgive them for they know not what John returned to his own church and finished the they do.” liturgy (Father Bill Olnhausen, Monthly Newsletter And the Lord is still forgiving His enemies today. for January 2013, St. Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox For every time we sin, we make ourselves enemies Church in Cedarburg, Wisconsin). Whatever it takes of Christ. And what does He do? He forgives us and – do it. Love your enemies enough so that you won’t A truck driver had been driving quite a few hours straight, and was tired and hungry, so he pulled into keeps on loving us. think of them as your enemies anymore. a truck stop and went into the restaurant to eat. While he was eating, a group of local Hell’s Angels As followers of Jesus Christ, we should be like The following are some ways to work on this. motorcyclists came into the restaurant to eat. While waiting for their food to be prepared, the Hell’s Him. We should do the same: love our enemies, Angels got bored. They began to harass the truck driver just for entertainment. They called him and forgive those who have hurt us. And if we re- Pray for your enemies names, yelled at him, and so on. Then they started throwing rolled-up napkins at him. He just sat ally do that, it will be the case that, from our side Back in the 600’s A.D. there were definitely some and ate quietly and totally ignored them. This upset them – they just couldn’t get a rise out of him. anyway, we won’t have enemies. They may still see people who considered St. Maximus the Confessor So, finally, one of them walked over and dumped a plate of food over the truck driver’s head. He still us as enemies, but we won’t see them as enemies. didn’t react, other than to take some napkins and clean himself up as well as possible – while the as their enemy. They hated him because he stuck to If, as Christ commands, we love and forgive our en- Hell’s Angels laughed at him. He paid his bill and quietly left to go back to his truck. The thugs joked the truth about Jesus Christ and wouldn’t give in to around with the waitress after he left, saying, “You know, that fella sure was a wimp. He wasn’t much of emies, they really won’t be our enemies anymore. the latest heresy. They cut out his tongue and cut a man!” The waitress, looking out the window at the parking lot, said, “You know, he’s not much of a St. Ephraim of Syria wrote about this sixteen hun- off his hands. St. Maximus’ response was to say this truck driver, either. He just ran over a bunch of motorcycles on his way out of the parking lot!” dred years ago: “Do not have any enemies except for about enemies: “Pray for him sincerely to God” (St. (from Our Daily Bread, February 28, 1990). Satan himself” (“On Admonition and Repentance”, Maximus, Selected Writings, Paulist Press, 1985, Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, 2nd Series, Vol. p. 73). Do you pray for other people? I hope so.

10 January 2014 The Word 11 Love Your Enemies

Antiochian Village That person who is hard to get along with, who irri- marque. In this novel, Remarque tells the story of www.avcamp.org tates you, who has hurt you, who you perhaps even a common German soldier fi ghting in the trenches Summer Camp 2014 think of as an enemy? Put that person at the top in northern France in World War I. One day, in the of your prayer list and pray for him more than for midst of an artillery bombardment, he jumped into Friendships for a Worship anyone else. a shell hole to try and stay safe. He was surprised lifetime to see also hiding in that shell hole a French soldier. Thank God for something good about your enemy Immediately, he thought to himself, “Ah, a French- HAVE YOU Father Andrew Harmon, Pastor Father Andrew REGISTERED FOR It may not be easy to think of something good about man – one of my hated enemies! I must kill him Arts & Crafts some people if they’ve done bad things to us or said quickly.” He drew his knife and was about to kill his bad things about us. But you can always think of at enemy when he noticed how badly wounded the fel- CAMP? least one good thing about that person. Focus on low was. He hesitated and then thought to himself,

“He certainly is too badly injured to hurt me, so why Horseback that one good thing. Ropes Course should I hurt him?” And so he put the knife away and Riding Shift your anger went peacefully over to the man. It was quickly obvi-

St. Matthew Antiochian Orthodox Church, North Royalton, Ohio St. Matthew Antiochian Orthodox Church, Is there someone who has angered you? St. Am- ous he was badly injured and would soon die. Nei- ther spoke the other’s language but they could still brose of Milan, back about 400 A.D., said that you Best two should shift that anger at other people to anger at communicate a little with their hand gestures and weeks Memories of for a eyes. The dying Frenchman motioned to his mouth summer! yourself. Instead of being angry at someone else, be lifetime Antiochian Village angry at yourself that you are so spiritually weak and the German quickly fi gured out he was hor- Registration now online for that something about that other person caused you ribly thirsty due to losing so much blood. He took Summer Camp, Chanting Camp & Iconography Camp to fall into the sin of anger. Being angry at yourself out his canteen and gave the man all the water he To Register: could drink. But it didn’t slow down his death, which Fun! Visit will help your anger at others to fade away (St. Am- www.avcamp.org www.avcamp.org was obviously imminent. The dying soldier nodded brose, Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, 2nd Se- Phone: 724 238 9565 Email: ries, Vol. X, Eerdmans, p. 17). a thank-you, and then pointed to his pocket. The [email protected] German went into the pocket and found his wallet, Treat them kindly which had in it a picture of the dying soldier’s wife St. Barsanuphius lived in the deserts of the Gaza and children. The French soldier pointed to the pic- area of Palestine about fourteen hundred years ture and then to his eyes. The German got the mes- ago. A very holy and wise man, he received many sage. The dying man wished to die while looking at letters seeking spiritual advice and he wrote many the picture of his beloved ones. So the German took letters giving spiritual advice. We still have some of the photo, held it closely to the man’s face, and the them today and they are a good read. One writer Frenchman looked at it. He soon died looking at the explained to the saint about an enemy he had, and photo with a smile on his face. As the French soldier sought advice on how to deal with the hateful per- died, the German realized they were no longer en- son. St. Barsanuphius’ advise was simple and brief: emies, but friends, even brothers (All Quiet On The “Do good to him” (Barsanuphius and John, Letters Western Front, Fawcett Crest, 1958, pp. 189–195). From the Desert, St. Vladimir Seminary Press, The enemies were turned into friends. Why? Be- 2003, p. 178). Even if someone has hurt you badly cause of simple acts of kindness. and you don’t feel kindly towards them, you can still Do the same. Remember the words we looked at act kindly towards them, even if it’s just a matter of earlier by St. Ephraim: “Do not have any enemies ex- smiling and saying, “Hi, how are you?” As St. Barsa- cept for Satan himself.” Jesus Christ, in the Sermon nuphius said, “Do good to him.” Act kindly, and who on the Mount, instructed us, “Love your enemies.” AVAILABLE NOW knows? Maybe they’ll start to change a bit and act It’s all hard, very hard. We are Christians, however, at patristicnectar.org - $100 for Director and Student Manuals a little more kindly to you. If you both keep that up, and so are called by our Lord to do as He did, even when it is hard. The Lord said in Luke 6 that He will (two vol. set) pretty soon you won’t be enemies anymore! reward us if we obey Him in this regard. He tells us I doubt many of you were doing a lot of reading Purchase includes back in the 1920s. But if you were, you might have in verse 35 that if we love our enemies, “Your reward rights to make unlimited copies read the world’s best-seller for a while back then, will be great and you will be children of the Most of Student Manual. All Quiet on the Western Front, by Erich Maria Re- High.” What a wonderful reward! To be children of Proceeds benefi t the Antiochian Orthodox Let us obey Christ’s words and love our enemies. May we be like Him. May we do like Him. like do we Him. May like be we May enemies. our love and words Christ’s obey us Let His. He loved as enemies our love we May the Most High God! That’s what He promises us. Archdiocese Sacred Music Institute Youth Music Ministry (YMM) Scholarships.

12 January 2014 WORLD COUNCIL OF CHURCHES’ STATEMENT cit in democratic legitimacy and credibility, firmation that all peoples are created equal in the poverty and lack of opportunity, especially for eyes of God. Affirming the Christian Presence and women and youth, Christian emigration from 2.2.1. In addition to the diversity of religions, Witness in the Middle East the region, and a generalized sense of aban- there is also diversity within the rich and varied donment following decades of unhelpful inter- traditions among Christian churches in the Middle vention. Christians, Muslims and Jews all ex- East. This has prompted forms of ecumenism that perience the destructive effects of these trends.” are particular to the region. Eastern Orthodox, 2. Vibrant Christian churches Oriental Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Protestant Christians are rooted in the soil of the Middle and Anglican churches, have together participat- Adopted at the East. From the manger of Bethlehem of Judea, ed in the MECC as an instrument for joint witness Tenth Assembly, the refuge of Egypt, the waters of the Jordan Riv- and diakonia. But ecumenism in the region goes October 30 to er and Sea of Galilee, and the road to the Cross beyond this institutional context to reach the ev- November 8, in Jerusalem itself, Christians are as rooted in the eryday lives of Christians. 2013, Busan, soil of the Middle East as are olive trees in the 2.3. Christian spirituality and witness are re- Republic of Korea Garden of Gethsemane and cedars in Lebanon. It vealed by the vibrant monastic communities and was on the road to Damascus that Paul was con- parishes, theological faculties, hospitals, schools Jesus said, verted (Acts 9) and in Antioch that the disciples and humanitarian services. These are essential “Do not be afraid, first were called Christians (Acts 11:26). parts of the creative and continuous witness of little flock, for it 2.1 Despite the ups and downs of harsh and test- the Christians and the churches, offering spiritual gives your Father ing historical, as well as present, circumstances, resources to all people in the region. great happiness Christians have continued and will continue to 3. Christians in the regional turmoil are to give you the live together with those who share this soil. The called to work for justice and peace kingdom.” Christians living in this region are an essential (Luke 12:32) Despite the centuries-long reality of plural com- part of their lands, contributing to the rich tradi- munities in the Middle East, some have exploited tions, plural societies and cultural diversity. In the “Take heart, the current turmoil to advance political radical- 19th century, Christians in the region struggled it is I. 1. Christians still keep hope to accompany all in the building of democratic ism and religious intolerance. Hundreds of thou- civil societies. to change their status to one where they would Do not be afraid.” The profound political changes that have swept sands of people in the region have been killed, be equal with all other citizens in their societies. maimed, imprisoned and displaced. The numbers the Middle East and North Africa since early 1.1. The circumstances throughout the Middle Christians today are aware that the guarantee of 2011, following popular uprisings, have carried East present the churches with a new kairos mo- of suffering, internally displaced people, and their free, engaged and meaningful existence in refugees driven into neighboring countries of the with them hopes for political systems based on ment as in the “Kairos Palestine: A Moment of these societies is not by protection, nor a bequest human rights and the rule of law. The seeds of Truth” document of 2009, when Palestinian Chris- Middle East and beyond have created a crushing given by political powers, but is acquired by forth- humanitarian catastrophe. an irreversible transformation have been sown. tians joined in a common reading of the situation, right participation as citizens, and by persistent In several countries, however, the efforts towards and challenged the churches to prophetic action. patience in encouraging mentalities and struc- 3.1 In Syria, violence and turmoil have ravaged political transformation have been rejected, 1.1.1. In May 2013, in Lebanon, the World Coun- tures that enhance the free participation of all. the lives of millions of people. Abductions of civil- which has undermined the demands for peaceful cil of Churches (WCC) and the Middle East Coun- Today, they do not see themselves as minorities. ians, including clergy, and torture, massacres and reform. Quite rapidly, large areas of the Middle cil of Churches (MECC) convened an ecumenical Rather, they view themselves as equal citizens extrajudicial killings have become a daily real- East and North Africa have succumbed to violent gathering of Christian leaders and representatives contributing to the well-being of their nations. ity. Entire communities, families and individuals, sectarian, ethnic, and tribal animosities, and the from churches and organizations in the region Their mission and witness in society is evident in have been forced to flee their homes, to find ref- reform movement has been distracted by politi- and from 34 other countries, to explore ways to multiple spheres of public life, such as culture, uge in other areas of their country, in neighbor- cal radicalism and religious intolerance. This has strengthen the Christian presence and witness. politics, education, health services, women and ing countries and in distant places. Humanitarian led to a widespread humanitarian catastrophe. They observed that “this is a time of crisis with youth development, child protection, social ser- relief is unable to meet the desperate needs of dis- In this critical situation, the worldwide Christian special intensity here in the Middle East, but vices, relief and development. Numerical propor- located people. The movement of refugees from community is enjoined to manifest its solidarity [it] affects all of humankind. The elements of tion historically has not limited the contribution Syria to neighboring countries has stressed those with all peoples in the Middle East who are strug- this crisis include an intensification of reli- and role of Christians in the Middle East. in flight and those offering hospitality. The politi- gling for just and peaceful societies, and, at the cal turmoil within Syria threatens the unity and gious tribalism, increasing fundamentalism 2.2. Christians in the region have contributed to same time, affirms that the continued presence of in many of the world’s religions, dispersion of stability of Syria and its neighbors. This massive Christians in this region is indispensable for plu- the idea that plurality is a gift of God, and that movement of population carries serious implica- the influence of radicalized Islamist groups, respect for diversity in plural societies is an af- ral and diverse communities, and commits itself widespread violence and insecurity, a defi- tions for those who remain, and for the hope of

14 January 2014 The Word 15 World Council of Churches

reconciled communities once peace and stability It also remains the core problem that is fuelling meeting in Geneva in February 2011, grounded cal situations and that these events will be an op- are restored. the logic underlying many of the conflicts in the theologically the importance of this presence by portunity for positive change in these societies 3.2. In Egypt, political turmoil has provided a region, putting at risk international relations and stating that “the WCC has viewed the Middle East and for participatory democracy; pretext to instrumentalise and politicise religion, peace. Resolving once and for all the conflict be- as a region of special interest, being the birth- D. encourages all peoples in the region, includ- where again, the Christian population and places tween the Israelis and Palestinians in accordance place of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam…. Our ing Christians, to initiate actions questioning of worship have been particularly targeted. The with United Nations resolutions and international living faith has its roots in this land, and is nour- the abuse of authority and rejecting corruption, level of violence and tensions has increased con- law, addressing all final status issues, including ished and nurtured by the unbroken witness of as they continue to support one another in the siderably and reached an alarming level. It is the right of return, can only help in resolving the the local churches who have their own roots from common effort to build democratic civil societ- hoped that the young generation which struggled other conflicts in the region. the apostolic times. Without this Christian pres- ies based on the rule of law, social justice, and for freedom, human dignity and equal rights to 3.6. In Jerusalem today Palestinians, Christians ence, the conviviality among peoples from differ- respect for human rights, including religious free- prevail in Egypt, will continue this long struggle and Muslims alike, face discriminatory Israeli ent faiths, cultures, civilisations, which is a sign dom and freedom of conscience; of God’s love for all humanity, will be endangered. and most importantly, will continue this struggle policies. “Jerusalem is the foundation of our vi- E. supports Christians in the region in their com- in an inclusive way with all those who hold these sion and our entire life. She is the city to which In addition, its extinction will be a sign of fail- ure of the ecumenical family to express the Gos- mitment to engage in constructive dialogue with values. God gave a particular importance in the history other religious and ethnic communities so that of humanity” (Kairos Palestine document). Jews, pel imperative for costly solidarity.” The Council 3.3. In Iraq, even after the withdrawal of foreign also expressed the principles that guide its policy their countries’ manifold heritage is protected occupying forces, people are still not enjoying Christians and Muslims alike look to Jerusalem as and secured; a place God blessed with the significance of His concerning the Middle East region: “God’s jus- human security and dignity. Acts of violence all tice and love for all of creation, the fundamental F. recommends that the WCC reinforces pro- over the country have reached alarming levels presence. As a city of two nations revered by the faithful of three religions, it needs to be the place rights of all people, respect for human dignity, grams that enhance regional and international and are affecting the entire population, includ- solidarity with the needy, and dialogue with peo- advocacy in partnership with Christians in the ing the already vulnerable Christian community. that models for the world the possibilities of liv- ing together peacefully in mutual respect. ple of other faiths.” It finally noted that “politi- Middle East and North Africa; Genuine democracy, equal citizenship, the rule of cal developments in the region point to signs of law, reconciliation and impartial development are 4. The Gospel imperative for costly ecumen- G. calls upon the WCC member churches to ex- hope for democratic changes, respect for human press costly solidarity with Christians and church- still out of reach. Under such conditions, Iraq is ical solidarity rights and the rule of law in several countries.” at great risk of being emptied of its human re- es in the region as well as with all peoples who are Christians reject on principle governance that di- In this context the WCC reaffirms the principle struggling for justice and peace, through sources. It is hoped that Iraqis will work together, minishes and denies the people’s right to express expressed by the Central Committee in 2011 that healing wounds and building a better future for opinion or to participate fully in the formulation “peace and reconciliation must be conditioned by a. supporting efforts to reinvigorate the MECC, themselves. It is also essential that dialogue be- of public policy. The popular uprisings and subse- justice.” The future of the churches and the Chris- to enable it to continue to be the voice of Mid- tween Christians and Muslims continues in order quent unrest across the region, however chaotic tians in these countries is and must be a concern dle Eastern Christians to the world, and the to promote justice and peace in the country. and dangerous, nonetheless reflect the urgency for the entire ecumenical family. trusted source of basic objective information; 3.4. Christians in Iran have been living in the and capacity of people to claim their right to good The 10th Assembly of the WCC, meeting in b. accompanying Christians in the Middle East as country for centuries, contributing to its rich governance and protection under the law. These Busan, Republic of Korea from 30 October to 8 they elaborate a common vision for the region; culture and civilisation. They constitute an inte- historic events demonstrate the public’s repu- November 2013, therefore, c. facilitating responsible pilgrimage to the gral part of the society and, along with the rest diation of insecurity in the region, including the region; of Iranians, are suffering from the international manipulation of religious teachings, economic A. reaffirms that Christians in the Middle East sanctions that have a harmful impact on them inequalities, failing political alliances, and the im- hold in a unique, tangible way the legacy of the d. organising solidarity visits in consultation much more than on the government. Lifting the balances of power that threaten all the people of apostolic era, preserving in the footsteps of our with churches in the region, remaining in ac- sanctions will encourage the present government the region, and humankind. Despite the current Lord the living Church; support of these Christian tive fellowship with them; communities, spiritually and materially, preserves to persevere with the undertaken reforms and to turmoil in the region, the long commitment of e. disseminating educational materials that ac- the continuity of the Christian presence for the abide by its international obligations under the the Church must remain steadfast to sow seeds of curately reflect the geography and history benefit of all Christians and all people from the terms of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. peace and justice and build on the progress that of the Middle East and the realities of sister region and worldwide; 3.5. This tension and violence around the Middle is being made. churches located there; B. regards current events in various countries in East and in North Africa is taking place in the 4.1. The WCC has consistently expressed its deep f. developing exchange programs to facilitate the the Middle East as an irreversible process leading midst of the on-going and longstanding Pales- concern for all peoples in this region where the sharing of experiences, information on inter- to changes in systems of governance, and hopes tine-Israel conflict in the region, and the Israeli history of our faith was born and grew. More par- faith relations and dialogue among the church- for a future of justice, peace and stability, cultural occupation of Palestinian and Arab territories ticularly, the Christian presence and witness in es and religions; and since 1967. This remains a central issue and a the land of the Bible has been of vital significance diversity and plural communities; g. supporting local churches in empowering major source of concern for all who are work- for the ecumenical family, from its inception up C. prays that Christians, especially in the region, women, young people and children to use and ing for peace with justice and for reconciliation. until the present day. The Central Committee, maintain their hope even in these extremely criti- develop their capacities and providing oppor-

16 January 2014 The Word 17 World Council of Churches

tunities for their meaningful participation in Great God, the churches and society; Hear us as we cry out to you for peace REFLECTING H. urges church-related agencies and all ecu- and justice for the peoples and the menical partners to increase their efforts to land itself. address the humanitarian needs in Syria and in Grant us homelands where water, ON all neighboring countries, focusing humanitar- land and resources are respected and ian efforts upon shared by all. (1) assisting Syrians to remain in their home Help us share your love with our communities; neighbors and plant the seeds of toler- ance in our communities. (2) easing the burden of internally displaced per- Comfort us so that our souls are healed sons and the communities hosting them; from the wounds of wars and conflicts. The Theological View of a Pastor (3) easing the burden of host families and com- Give us your light that we may walk munities in neighboring countries; out of the shadows of death with impu- (4) assisting refugees with the goal and intention nity. of facilitating their resettlement into their own May your justice truly course through “… if you have done it to the least of these my brethren, communities and homes in Syria; and insists that our lands like an you have done it to me.” all governments allow for full humanitarian ac- unstoppable torrent. cess, seeking peaceful ways to exert pressure to Teach us to trust in hope that one day As if you haven’t heard enough about this topic, same judgment when we appeal for “a good de- stop violent actions; soon all may dwell beneath their vines that is, the Gospel of Meat Fare and the Last Judg- fense before the dread Judgment Seat of Christ.” and fig trees in peace and happiness. I. urges the United Nations, and the internation- ment (this year, February 23), I now hope to add It is also the judgment indicated in the Creed: “He al community, especially countries that are in Opening Prayer, something from a different perspective than what shall come again with glory to judge the living and positions of political power, to create policies World Council of Churches we all have heard in the many reflections over the dead.” 10th Assembly, October 30, 2013 that promote and reach comprehensive peace the past summer. After all, Matthew 25:31–46 is Here, then, is precisely where we must begin with justice for all peoples of the region, and a gospel seeking to push itself into our Christian our own reflection, that is, with the image of the to expand every effort to support cessation of consciousness at every turn in our lives. Lord, Jesus Christ. In so doing, we should first violence and military activities; The reader should know that I have listened to turn to St. John Chrysostom, who in his Homily J. reiterates its call to the United Nations to se- many oratorical and homiletic efforts on this text 79 on this particular biblical passage, claims that cure and protect the integrity of the holy sites and that none are wrong; each offered something our Lord has first appeared on earth in a lowly of all religions in Jerusalem and make them ac- valuable to the Orthodox Christian. What I hope role, that is, he was born in a manger, crucified cessible to all as well as to end the occupation to accomplish, however, is to take the reader into on a Cross, and so forth. In future, however, he of East Jerusalem by Israel; a more pastoral view, thus, in a particular way, to will appear in an entirely different role, in which he will reproach, confront and judge from God’s K. demands the immediate release of the two “reflect on the reflections.” It is not better than Throne of Glory. Chrysostom explains: Archbishops from Aleppo, His Eminence Bou- what we have already learned from those reflec- los (Yazigi) Greek Orthodox Metropolitan of tions and oratories, but different, and, I believe, In his previous parables, when Jesus speaks of Aleppo and Alexandretta and His Eminence necessary. Every pastor, as we will see, hopes such two persons, he is referring to two portions of Mor Youhanna Gregorios (Ibrahim) Syriac Or- a message gets transmitted through his ministry. humanity, the disobedient and obedient. Here thodox Metropolitan of Aleppo in Syria, kid- Before we begin, however, it is important for he speaks with fuller clarity … when he open- ly shows himself to be the Son of Man who napped on April 22, 2013, as they were on a the reader to remember that this Gospel narra- ‘shall come in his glory….’ He reproaches. He humanitarian mission to negotiate the release tive, which incidentally has no parallel in the other canonical Gospels (Mark, Luke and John), is not confronts. He sits on his Throne of Glory…. of two kidnapped priests from Aleppo, as well So he lifts up his bearers and brings before as Father Paolo Dall’Oglio, kidnapped on July merely a parable; it is an eschatological story, a story of what the Fathers and Saints of the Church their sight the judgment seat with all the world 29, 2013, and all captives and those unjustly gathered around him (Homily 79:1). imprisoned. call the parousia (the Second Coming), and in which “all nations” (meaning “all humankind”) As St. Matthew clarifies in this Gospel narra- will be gathered and judged by God. This is the tive, however, this entire scenario is elicited by message we all need to hear – every day! In the certain questions of the disciples to Jesus, as Orthodox Eucharistic Liturgy we allude to this he “sat upon the Mount of Olives.” They ask:

18 January 2014 The Word 19 Reflecting on Reflections

“Tell us, when shall these things be? What shall ing in souls that are ailing. They welcome Christ not in his own nature, but in the poor those who are hungry, thirsty, naked, be the sign of you? And the sign of the end of himself by teaching righteousness, and clothe … is not naked in his own nature, in prison, and so forth. The mes- the world?” (Matthew13:3). These questions those who are naked” (Homily 54). Very early in but in his servants. Therefore sage is clear: If we are to be are answered by the Lord actually in a series Christian literature we can note that Origen cap- the saints and servants are with Christ, we must be about of stories and parables, but it is important to tured this organic relationship even more suc- not alone; the Lord suffers His work and we must care note that our chosen story is the last parable of cinctly: “They [the faithful] have woven a garment all these things with them, about those things which them all, recorded by Matthew. This is indeed a for the cold, shivering Christ” (Commentary on and in them (Interpreta- are even unspectacular; as critical point, in that it sets forth the standards Matthew 72). tion of the Gospels 38). every pastor knows, we are by which “all nations,” that is, all humankind, Also, in each of these four roles attributed to Even more, one cannot sometimes measured by the will be judged. So, what are the standards? our Lord, the faithful should know that no harm help but notice in this pow- simple transactions of life They are quite clear: Christ is to be found in originates from Christ; they must look to them- erful parable that such judg- in which we are required to the hungry, in the thirsty, in the vulnerable, in selves for blame. Chrysostom explains: “He does ment upon the “sheep” and see Christ. Ester DeWaal, the desolate, in the poorest of the poor, and so curse the works of those at the left hand [goats], “goats” is made not on the who wrote about “monastic forth. One’s response to recognizing Christ in ‘I prepared the kingdom for you, but the fire I did basis of some spectacular hospitality,” asked two sim- each case places one either on the right side as not prepare for you, but for the devil and his an- act of charity; their acts are ple but revealing questions a “sheep,” or on the left as a “goat.” gels.’ But you have cast yourself into it…. Even all seemingly mundane forms of anyone who would truly One still must ask: “How and by whom are when you see a dog hungry, you feel sympathy, but of mercy and kindness for aspire to be Christian: “Do these standards set and applied in making such when you see the Lord hungry, you ignore it. You the less fortunate, acts which people see Christ in us?” a judgment?” The parable explains precisely how are left without excuse!” (79:2). Let no one be mis- require only the minimum and “Did we see Christ in and by whom. Let us see how Matthew does this. taken, however: distinguishing the righteous and of human compassion. After them?” Looking carefully at this parable, we notice that the wicked is not so obvious, except, of course, to all, it is no great feat to give This reminds us that in at first the chief actor in the story is a “shepherd,” God. Both are intermingled with each other; the a drink to someone, to feed our passage in St. Matthew, who becomes a “king” (25:34), and is addressed righteous live side-by-side with the wicked and someone, and so forth; who the problem is really “see- by the nations as “Lord” (25:37, 44). The “Son they seem indistinguishable. This creates a prob- could not? Nevertheless, ing.” People simply fail to of Man,” before whom are gathered “all nations” lem in the parable when one reads, “And he [the those who perform these see Christ, even when he fulfills, at once, each – and all – these functions. Shepherd] will separate them as he separates the simple acts of mercy are ignorant of what they re- stands before them in the The standards of judgment are set by Him, and sheep from the goats.” In The Incomplete Work ally have done. In this story the King must lead needs of the others. And yet we sometimes com- no one else. on Matthew, it is said, them, must tell them everything, must teach them plain that God is elusive, silent, evasive. Perhaps It is interesting to note here that, in this way, Between the righteous and wicked the differ- everything, concerning the meaning of their acts. we ought to confess that the problem is on our we discover the roles and characteristics which ence is not apparent. Even as in wintertime Otherwise they simply do not understand. side: We are too often those who tend to ask, the Church has always attributed to our Lord. He you cannot tell the healthy trees apart from By performing these unspectacular acts of “Lord, when did we see you?” is precisely the Shepherd, who is the King, who the withered trees, but in beautiful spring- love for the “least of them,” however, the sheep In our effort to “see” Christ, then, we remember is the Lord, and, therefore, in the end, who is the time, you can indeed tell the difference, so have thereby shown their love for the king. By the veritable meaning of the Church as the “people Judge. Although these four titles reflect strength too each person will be exposed according extension – and implication – even people from of God.” This causes any pastor to raise the logical and glory, Christ in his humility still does not fail to his faith and work. The wicked will have “nations” who do not know the King, if they per- question: who is the focus of this Church? In his to identify with “the least of the brethren.” This no leaves or fruit, but the righteous will be form the acts of love, also shall be praised and text With God in the Crucible, Peter Storey asks does not remove, however, the need for their, clothed with leaves of eternal life, and fruit of numbered as “cherished.” This refers to those who this very question, answering it ironically with the that is, the brethren’s, initiative toward unity and glory”(Homily 54). are outside the community of faith. This can be meaning of our Matthean scripture. identification with Christ. Just being poor is not To this, Epiphanios the Latin adds a clarifica- said because suffering and deprivation affect all Who is the focus of the Church? Who is the enough; it does not guarantee salvation. The mes- tion of this identification of the Lord and the lowly peoples, “all nations,” whether or not they are dis- person about which we are concerned? The sage of our Gospel narrative clearly transmits, servant. Epiphanios writes, ciples of Christ. person we exist to serve? For Jesus there was however, the deep organic identification which is Every pastor prays that, in learning from this no question. In the Kingdom, the humble are at once open to both Christ and “the least of the What then, my most beloved? Does our Lord story, the faithful will discover the values and lifted high and the most vulnerable have pride brethren.” Every pastor wants the faithful to un- hunger or thirst? Is he who himself made judgments of Jesus Christ. After all, he is the of place. That is why you cannot ask Jesus into derstand this. everything in heaven or on earth,… is this one telling the story, but He is also the one who your heart alone. He will ask, ‘Can I bring my We see the depth of this relationship described one naked? It is incredible to believe such a himself knew the same suffering and deprivation friends?’ You will look at his friends and they in the ancient document entitled The Incomplete thing. Yet what must be confessed is easy to to which he refers in the story. For example, “I will consist of the poor and marginalized and Work on Matthew (author unknown): “Even as believe…. For the Lord hungers not in His thirst,” the words spoken at the end of His earthly oppressed, and you will hesitate. But Jesus is Christ is healthy in souls that are healthy, he is ail- own nature, but in his saints; the Lord thirsts life, correspond with what he says on behalf of clear: ‘Only if I can bring my friends’ (p. 154).

20 January 2014 The Word 21 Antiochian Orthodox Christian Women of Archdiocesan Office North America

ORDAINED

LOMBARDI, Lazarus (Jeff), to the holy diaconate by Bishop JOHN on November 17, 2013, at St. Project 2013-2014 Michael Church, Whittier, California. He is as- signed to that church. ELEVATED ALLEN, Father Brendan, to the Archpriesthood Help the Orphans of by Bishop JOHN on November 17, 2013, at St. Michael Church, Whittier, California. War in Syria BUSHELLI, Father Noah, to the rank of Archpriest by Bishop THOMAS on November 17, 2013, at St. Philip Church, Souderton, Pennsylvania. THANK YOU Bishop NICHOLAS with Archbishop JUSTINIAN ARCHDIOCESE DONATES TO HELP FIRE-DAMAGED NEW YORK CATHEDRAL Thank you to St. George Orthodox Church in Al- lentown, PA for a donation of $70,000 to the Syr- On Tuesday, November 12, His Grace Bishop ian Relief effort. NICHOLAS of Brooklyn and the Vicar-General, Archpriest Thomas Zain, presented His Emi- nence Archbishop JUSTINIAN, Archbishop of Reflecting on Reflections cont’d from pg. 21 Naro-Forminsk and Administrator of the Patri- archal parishes of the Russian Orthodox Church In the end, his friends, that is, our neigh- in the USA with a letter and a substantial dona- bors, our brothers and sisters, hold the key to tion from His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP on our own discovery of Christ. On this we will behalf of the clergy and laity of the Antiochian be judged. Abba St. Anthony the Great said, Archdiocese for St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox “From my neighbor is life and from my neigh- Cathedral. While the church proper was unaf- bor is death” (Apophthegmata, P.G., LXV, Ant- fected, an electrical fire on the evening of Octo- ony 9). Through the brother and sister we see ber 4, 2013, severely damaged the basement area Christ and thereby we discover the criterion of the Cathedral, where the refectory and offices of our judgment. The author is unknown who are. Archpriest Georgy Roschin was also present wrote what can never be forgotten: at the meeting and served as translator. I sought my soul, The two discussed many topics of in- but my soul I could not see. terest in the Orthodox world and especially the “For I was hungry and you gave I sought my God, situation of Christians in the Middle East and but my God eluded me. the ongoing war in Syria. Bishop NICHOLAS ex- Me food; I was thirsty, and you gave I sought my brother, pressed his thankfulness for all that the Russian and found all three. Me drink.” (Matthew 25:35) Orthodox Church and the country of Russia are (Author Unknown) doing to protect and provide for the Christians and all the people of Syria. After relaying his grat- We seek the brother and we find Christ; on itude to Metropolitan PHILIP on behalf of the rec- this we will be judged “when all nations are tor and parishioners of the Cathedral, Archbishop gathered” before the Son of Man. Our Goal: $200,000! JUSTINIAN presented Bishop NICHOLAS with Father Joseph Allen, Th.D. an engolpion () and Fr. Thomas with a Director of the Antiochian House of Studies beautiful candle holder. Pastor, St. Anthony Church, Bergenfield, New Jersey A Sisterhood Serving Christ Through Serving Others

22 January 2014 civil war for the past three and one-half years. children – will be unable to survive without heat Groups that were spurred on by the “Arab Spring” or clean water. in neighboring parts of the Middle East began This then is the Antiochian Women’s Project what has become known as the “Syrian Uprising” for 2014, as presented to us by His Eminence in March of 2011. A number of organizations have Metropolitan PHILIP: “Help the Orphans of War made it known that they wish to overthrow the in Syria.” Women are known to be nurturers. central government of President Bashar Al-Assad Christians are called by Christ to show love to our in Damascus. In attempting to accomplish their neighbor. In light of this, we must move forward goals, these groups have destroyed and desecrat- to help those who need the greatest assistance. ed the Syria of our ancestors before our eyes. We must not allow a generation of children to More than one hundred thousand have been go without food, shelter, or clothing. We must killed, and over two million have been displaced act now before it is too late. Our goal is to raise from their homes, fl eeing to overcrowded refugee $200,000! camps in Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Tur- We urge you key. For those left behind, numbering over four to work with your Help the Orphans million, basic amenities are non-existent. Nearly local Antiochian one-half of the country’s hospitals are closed, Women’s chapters and the majority of health care workers have fl ed. in your local church of War in Syria Clean water and daily food supplies are scarce. or mission. More In the midst of this turmoil are the children information can be – too young to understand, but old enough to be found via our web- in fear of their lives. According to a news report site at www.antio- in an August 2013 edition of The Los Angeles chian.org/women. Times, over one million Syrian children are refu- Parishes should gees and over four million have been displaced send their contri- throughout the country. Three-quarters of the butions to their Di- children are under eleven years of age, and thou- ocesan Antiochian sands arrive in refugee camps without family or Women’s Treasurer Syria! The name itself inspires awe and wonder. The Syria of today still has the same physical friends. A report via the United Nations Refugee no later than May Archaeologists have proven that Syria was the features: the hot and dry plateaus, the Euphra- Agency in August also noted that “even after [the 1, 2014, with the Diocesan Treasurer forwarding cradle of civilization, and where agriculture and tes River in the east, and the Mediterranean Sea children] have crossed the border to safety, they monies by May 15, 2014, to the North American trade routes appeared for the fi rst time. Its capi- touching portions of its western boundaries. The are traumatized [and] depressed.” The children Board’s Treasurer, Anne Bourjaily-Thomas, 590 are “destitute and totally unsettled in their unfa- Solon Road, Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44022. tal – Damascus – is widely considered to be the history of Christianity is writ large across the Syr- ian landscape: monastic communities still can be miliar surroundings.” Those who are able to make When asked by His disciples who was the world’s oldest city. Antioch was also part of early found across the countryside, and churches and it to refugee camps and orphanages are dehydrat- “greatest in the kingdom of heaven,” our Lord and Syria and was invaded by the Roman armies in the faithful are prevalent in the major cities. Al- ed and malnourished, having survived on nuts, Savior Jesus Christ called a little child to Him and 64 B.C., making it the third-largest city in the Ro- though a minority, the Christian community has leaves and dirty water throughout their journey. said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you … be- man empire. Syria continued to grow and be- been protected over the last fi fty years, fi rst by Even more unsettling are recent reports of the come as little children, you will by no means enter come a major center of trade and industry in the President Hafez al-Assad and currently by his living conditions in the refugee camps. Cases of the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself ancient world. son, Bashar al-Assad. cholera, measles, and polio – a disease that was as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of After the ministry, crucifi xion, death and res- Our beloved Beatitude JOHN X of Antioch thought to have been eradicated – have been di- heaven” (Matthew 18:1–5). urrection of Christ, it was in Syria where a young and All the East was born in Syria, and presides agnosed. “Homes” are makeshift tents housing The conclusion of the Kontakion of the Feast man named Saul (who later took the name Paul) over the holy Antiochian Orthodox Church from anywhere from eight to ten people. The rodent of the Nativity reads that, “since for our sakes is was converted on his way to Damascus. It was in his seat in Damascus. Damascus is also the birth- population in the camps sometimes outnumbers born the ETERNAL GOD, as a little Child....” We Antioch where St. Paul set off on many of his jour- place of His Eminence Bishop JOSEPH, His Grace the human beings who are living there. A recent as Orthodox Christians must go forth and save the neys to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In An- Bishop ANTOUN, and His Grace Bishop NICHO- report from the United Nations reported wide- orphans of Syria as God himself saved mankind. tioch, “the disciples were fi rst called Christians” LAS. The country is the original home to many of spread organized crime, substandard living con- (Acts 11:26). ditions and recruitment of children to the rebel Dianne O’Regan, Vice President/Project Coordinator the faithful throughout the Antiochian Orthodox North American Board of the Antiochian Women Syria has changed little since those early days Christian Archdiocese of North America. armies. Also, as winter approaches, there is the Member, St. Michael’s Church, Louisville, Kentucky of civilization and the formation of Christianity. Alas, this beautiful country has been rent by fear that many of the refugees – especially the

24 January 2014 The Word 25 Communities in Action

Centuries-Old Russian Bell first band of lace, about three tiff’s visit to California. The loan native Alaska Orthodox clergy, Returns to Kodiak Island quarters of the way up the bell. was approved by the Pope, but and representatives of the Roman Molten metal has been used to fill because of complications the bell Catholic Church. A formal bless- An old Russian Orthodox bell the crack, so it is now in ringable was never brought to Alaska. ing and installation of the bell will has been returned to Alaska after condition. The current repatriation was be held at a later date in Kodiak. more than a century in Southern Not much is known about the accomplished thanks to the col- “The Orthodox Christians of California. On October 1, 2013, origin or early history of this bell. laboration of several individuals, Alaska, especially the many native Alaska Airlines graciously deliv- It is evident from its method of including Fr. Ray Bucko, a Jesuit clergy and laity, are most grate- ered the “San Fernando bell” to manufacture and wear, according priest who helped orchestrate the ful to our Roman Catholic native the Holy Resurrection Cathedral to campanologist Mark Galperin, operation; Archbishop Jose Go- American brothers through Arch- on Kodiak Island. Until recently, General Manager of Blagovest mez, the Roman Catholic Arch- bishop Gomez, the tireless work life of our parish and to encour- ers, they blessed the day and en- this bell had been under the care Bells in San Rafael, Califor- bishop of Los Angeles; Archbish- of Fr. Bucko, and others, for the age us in our life in Christ. joyed the golfers. At the dinner, of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles nia, that the bell was cast in the op Benjamin, the Archbishop of return of this piece of our reli- First, Bishop THOMAS pre- Bishop THOMAS discovered that and housed at the Mission of San mid-nineteenth century and is San Francisco and the West of the gious and cultural history,” noted sided over our patronal feastday, one of the golfers, John Charles, Fernando Rey de España. It has made in accordance with Russian Orthodox Church in America and Archbishop Benjamin. “We now for the Holy Apostle Philip. In his was a Wilkes-Barre high school since been repatriated by the Ro- traditions. It is unclear, however, locum tenens of the Diocese of look forward to a positive re- stirring sermon he reminded us to classmate of his mother. On Satur- man Catholic Church and Catho- whether the bell was made in Rus- Alaska; Fr. Alexei Smith, the head sponse from the directors of Ran- “be like the bee, rather than the day, Sayidna made his annul visit lic natives to the native Orthodox sia or Russian America, perhaps of the Interreligious and Ecumeni- cho Camulos for the return of the fly,” in our relationships. to his family’s hot dog restaurant, of Alaska as a sign of friendship in Novo-Archangelsk (modern- cal Affairs Office for the Los Ange- companion bell they have at their Secondly, he presided over the Abe’s on Main Street, where Say- and unity. day Sitka). les Roman Catholic Archdiocese; museum.” delegates’ meeting that we host- idna visited with family, parishio- In addition, the Orthodox The earliest record of the bell Sr. Kateri Mitchell, the Executive In a gesture of friendship and ed. Our parish’s teens and wom- ners and friends. He later came to Church is hoping to soon receive in Southern California dates from Director of the Tekakwitha Con- appreciation, Archbishop Benja- en’s groups worked very hard to the Church for Vespers where he back another bell directly tied to the 1930’s writings of Marie ference, an organization of indige- min is presenting to Archbishop host the 107 delegates. Glory to was received at the doors of the the Kodiak Church and now held Walsh, a campanologist. Accord- nous and native Roman Catholics; Gomez for the San Fernando Mis- God for the beautiful services, Church Temple and led into the by Rancho Camulos in Piru, Cali- ing to accounts told her, the bell and Archbishop Chaput, Epis- sion a bronze, 14-inch, Russian fruitful meetings, and tasty fast- Church. After Vespers he spoke fornia. An inscription on the Cam- may have been at San Fernando copal Moderator of the Tekak- church replacement bell, which ing foods that strengthened us for to the parishioners about time he ulos bell states that it was cast as early as 1890. Additional re- witha Conference; along with Fr. was cast as a gift from Fr. Harri- God’s work! spent that afternoon looking at in Kodiak in January 1796 “by search and analysis is needed to Harrison; Mr. Galperin; Matthew son, now pastor of St. Luke Ortho- Thirdly, it was a blessing for baptismal and wedding records the blessing of determine the actual provenance Namee, a founder of the Society dox Church in Palos Hills, Illinois, our entire community to have our which date back to the 1890’s. Joaseph, during the sojourn of of the San Fernando bell. for Orthodox Christian History in and parishioners of that parish. priest, Fr. Noah Bushelli, elevated He noted that some of the records Alexander Baranov.” A formal An attempt was made in 1987 the Americas; Fr. Yousuf Rassam, to become an archpriest. He is show that Saints Raphael Ha- request has been submitted to the Bishop THOMAS Visits to loan the bell to the Orthodox current pastor of St. Innocent especially humbled and honored waweeny and Alexis Toth had car- Board of Directors of the Rancho St. Philip, Souderton Alaskans for several months in Church; and Clifford Argue, a re- to receive from Fr. Boniface Black ried out sacraments in this church. Camulos Museum for the return order to commemorate the Rus- tired Alaska Airlines executive. Being Orthodox means having a jeweled cross and hopes to live After Vespers, Sayidna joined the of the bell to the Orthodox of sian Orthodox millennium and The actual transfer of the bell a rich liturgical and spiritual life up to his great pastoral and mis- parishioners for a dinner prepared Alaska in Kodiak, in keeping with the two-hundredth anniversary from native Roman Catholics to of ministry. It also means being sionary example. by parishioners Raid and Eileen the growing trend of repatriating of Russia’s first colony in Alaska. native Orthodox occurred on July part of the One, Holy, Catholic Attar, with a whole crew of help- artifacts to their original home by Bishop THOMAS Visits This effort was initiated by Fr. 21, 2013, at the Tekakwitha Con- and Apostolic Church. When our ers. In the evening we spoke with museums throughout the world. St. Mary, Wilkes-Barre Andrew Harrison of St. Innocent ference’s annual meeting in Texas. bishops visit, they remind us that Sayidna about planning the hun- The San Fernando bell is 12 Bishop THOMAS began his Orthodox Church in Tarzana, The official “receiving” of the San our parish is part of the Church dredth anniversary celebration, inches in height and base diam- visit at St. Mary Church in Wil- California. His parishioner, Ber- Fernando bell by the Holy Resur- that Christ established and gave and the vitality of the parish. (We eter and is made of a bronze alloy. kes-Barre, Pennsylvania, over nard Wilson, then Chief of the rection Cathedral took place on into His Apostles’ hands for safe- have two new families and four in- Two rings of lacework adorn its the weekend of September 29, Los Angeles International Airport October 19 in Anchorage. Arch- keeping and increasing. We re- fants.) On Sunday Sayidna served topside, but it bears no other in- 2013, with the parish’s Annual Police, raised the possibility of the bishop Benjamin was on hand, as cently had the great blessing of the Divine Liturgy and at the end scriptions or decorations. A crack Golf Outing. While neither Bishop loan during a brief encounter with well as Fr. Innocent Dresdow, the our Bishop’s visit to mark some blessed recipients of the silver stretches from the bottom to the THOMAS nor Fr. David are golf- Pope John Paul II during the Pon- Dean of the Cathedral, numerous very important occasions in the and bronze ribbon of the Fellow-

26 January 2014 The Word 27 ioners got to hear many stories an integral part of the Danbury written for teens and adults, – public confessions, learning to community since 1924. Our new though children can enjoy the chant, meeting a potential future Church building was consecrated music as well. On Saturday, No- spouse, the white doves which in 1987 by His Eminence Metro- vember 9, area teens gathered accompanied Fr. John’s casket at politan PHILIP. at St. Joseph in Houston, Texas, his funeral (ask His Grace Bishop The three-day celebration in- for an all-day retreat with Kh. THOMAS for the details), mar- cluded Friday and Saturday meet- Gigi. She shared her songs and riage advice, and much more. Ul- ings between Bishop NICHOLAS discussed the battle that we as timately, we encouraged everyone and the Parish Council, and fami- Orthodox Christians fight against in the parish to make some time lies, and teens and children of the unseen enemy who throws his Bishop THOMAS with ship festivals. Sayidna noted his swarm, according to their kinds, director at the Antiochian Village, Festival Winners to see the camp. The Divine Lit- the parish. A festive banquet/hafli darts at us. Through her music we prayer for North East Pennsylva- and every winged bird according St. Mary’s Church in Brooklyn, urgy concluded with a beautiful took place Saturday evening and a nia, which is rich with affordable to their kind. And God saw that it New York, prayed for the repose memorial service for Fr. John. moving Hierarchal Divine Liturgy housing and beautiful mountains, was good” (Genesis 1:27); of his soul on November 3, 2013. Going forward, we hope to have on Sunday morning brought this is that it will gradually experience “When you fast, anoint your At the suggestion of a camper more days of congregational sign- very special weekend to an end. economic rebirth. The parish will head and wash your face, that far too young to have known Fr. ing, so that everyone can share Bishop NICHOLAS presented continue to be a welcoming place your fasting may not be seen by John, we gave the choir the day more fully in glorifying God – parishioner Jeanette Beylouni with for those who seek Christ. others but by your Father who is off and tried the congregational some rehearsals may be in order. a Certificate of Meritorious Service Church of the Ascension, in secret. And your Father who singing which Fr. John encour- At the least, we in Brooklyn hope at the Banquet. The eldest mem- Calgary, Presents Art Show sees in secret will reward you” aged, and which is still one of the to do this every year in early No- ber of the parish, she was lauded on Verses from the Bible (Matthew 6:16–18); hallmarks of the camping pro- vember to mark Fr. John’s repose. for her lifetime of service to the “God said, ‘Behold, I have given gram today. We humbly suggest that Villagers Church. She worked tirelessly with After a full year of attending you every plant yielding seed that On that day, Marathon Sunday everywhere do the same in their the Ladies Society to help raise church school and investing in is on the face of all the earth, and in New York City, parishioners home parishes. funds for Church projects. reading, painting, singing and every tree with seed in its fruit. who had at one time or another On Sunday, Maher Sarkis was performing plays for the Feast St. George, Danbury, You shall have them for food. been campers, counselors, volun- blessed as a Reader of the Church days of the Church calendar, the Celebrates Twice And to every beast of the earth teers, or staff, all sang to the best by Bishop NICHOLAS and Mark children of the Church of the An- and to every bird of the heavens of their abilities. The group gath- The St. George parish of Dan- Griswold was inducted into the nunciation, Calgary, Alberta, dis- and to everything that creeps on ered that day repre- bury, Connecticut, has celebrated From the left: Mark Massoud, Parish Coun- Order of St. Ignatius. All in all, cil President, with his wife Anne and Joanne played their art work to the con- the earth, everything that has the sented every decade two major events over the past a memorable weekend for St. Hadad, Event Chairperson, with her hus- gregation on July 28, 2013. They band John breath of life, I have given every of the Village, going few months. A special luncheon George Church. performed a short play based on green plant for food.’ And it was all the way back to was held in August to honor the the following verses: so” (Genesis 1:29–30); 1979. Several choir V. Rev. Fr. George Alberts on his Fight the Good Fight “The Seed is the Word of God” “Because you do good works, members supported Fortieth Anniversary as a priest. Teen Retreat and (Luke 8:10); you are like a light in the world. the effort by singing along, using On September 22, Bishop NICH- CD Release Party “Jesus said, ‘Truly, I say to you, If a light is on a hill, many people the extra copies of the camp ser- OLAS graced us with his presence It’s a battle out there, the en- unless you turn and become like can see it. If a lamp is giving light vice book that had been ordered, for the culmination of a year-long emy’s unseen, gnawing at our children, you will never enter the to a room, you do not put a box and they did quite well with it. celebration of twenty-five years at souls when we are sleeping. kingdom of heaven’” (Matthew over it, instead you let it shine so Also in attendance were a num- our present location. Wake up one and all and get 18:2–6); the room has light.” ber of parents and grandparents Fr. George and Khouria Carol ready for the fight; behold, our “Behold, children are a heritage St. Mary’s, Brooklyn, of Villagers. Overall, the perfor- have been a beloved part of our salvation is at hand. We’ve got from the Lord, the fruit of the mance of the music was spirited parish ever since they came to to fight the good fight – we’ve womb a reward” (Psalm 127:3); Prays for Archimandrite John Namie and joyful. Danbury in 2002. Fr. George got to run the good race. Get up “I am the Lord your God, who One of the nicest parts of the is a noted scholar and teacher when we fall; be filled with His stirs up the sea so that its waves It has been twelve years since Ar- day was a Q&A session. Instead of throughout our diocese. We feel grace. . . . roar – the Lord of hosts in his chimandrite John Namie departed delivering a sermon, Fr. Michael privileged to have him as our – from the title track of Fight name” (Isaiah 51:15); this life, on November 5, 2001. To Elias asked for our camp alumni spiritual leader and Kh. Carol as the Good Fight “So God created the great sea honor his memory and to carry to share with the parish some our Church School director. God Fight the Good Fight is Khou- From the right: Bishop Nicholas, V. Rev. Fr. creatures and every living creature on the good works of the camping memories of Fr. John and some grant them many years! George, Kh Carol that moves, with which the waters program of which he was the first ria Gigi Baba Shadid’s newest stories about the camp. Parish- St. George Church has been compact disk and the first one learned how biblical stories still

28 January 2014 The Word 29 Metropolitan NICHOLAS of the speeches by Bishop ANTHONY Greek Metropolis of North Amer- and Metropolitan NICHOLAS dur- ica. We welcomed their presence ing the church services and so- with great joy. cial events, were for the spiritual The banquet was memorable, nourishment of all, encouraging with over four hundred pres- us to pray for growth in service to ent in the social hall, beautifully Christ and His Church. decorated with its floating walls The highlight of the evening and flowers. It was a joy to share was the Burning of the Mortgage. in this blessed event, and to look A member of our parish, dressed forward in peace and tranquil- as St. George, carried a flaming speak to us today. For example, For beauty in nature, Your glory teachers for teaching us about ity to our future at St. George torch to the podium, bearing a in her song “The Parable of the we see Jesus through the Gospel Church of Troy. The program replica of our Mortgage. Though Sower,” we pondered the ques- For joy and health, friends and And making us aware of Jesus was wonderful. It began with Fa- the flame was doused, the image tion, “What kind of soil am I?” We family, and His miracles. ther Joseph Antypas, Master of will remain in our hearts forever. talked about what true poverty is, For daily provision, Your mercy I am thankful to my friends for Ceremonies, introducing our be- During the evening festivi- and how we can use our hands and care. always being beside me and sup- loved Metropolitan PHILIP, who ties other wonderful events took and feet to serve God. These are the blessings You gra- porting me in my school. gave the invocation. Mr. Philip place. Our Very Reverend Father After lunch, when the teens told ciously share. We are thankful to all of you for Holwey sang the national anthem, Joseph was presented the Anto- Kh. Gigi that they were getting Lord, so often times, as any other coming today and listening to all which was followed by a welcome nian Gold Medal by Metropolitan sleepy, she sang them a beauti- day of us from Linda Norgrove, Banquet PHILIP. Metropolitan PHILIP also ful lullaby, then roused them with When I sit down to our meal and And we say as parishioners we Chairperson. Mr. Walid Khalife, presented Antonian Silver Medals more of her lively music before pray are so thankful for you. General Coordinator of the Cen- to Bill Swor, Jr., and to Neal Nor- they headed outside to play ulti- For my family, my friends, a nice You are the future of the tennial Weekend offered special grove, an officer of our Centennial mate frisbee. soft bed, CHURCH. remarks, as did teen SOYO presi- Committee, for their meritorious Celebrating Thanksgiving I’m thankful right now to be sur- St. George, Troy, Michigan, dent Anna Jahshan, and Chairman service at St. George. were with a Play rounded by those Celebrates Centennial of the St. George Parish Council also presented to Walid Khalife, Whose lives touch me more than Anita Pollock. Mayor of Troy, the George Darany, Ghassan Elian, In Canada, Thanksgiving takes they’ll ever know; The centenary celebration Honorable Dane Slater, our Bish- Anita Pollock and Randa Nasr, in place on the second weekend of Thankful, Lord, that You’ve weekend began at the Troy Mar- op ANTHONY, and Metropolitan appreciation of their services to October, and this year at Church blessed me beyond measure, riott on Friday, October 18, with NICHOLAS also spoke. Congratu- the church. of the Annunciation, Calgary, Al- Thankful that in my heart lives meetings of the Antiochian Arch- latory messages from Governor The highlight of the weekend berta, school children of all ages, life’s greatest treasure. diocese Board and the Governing Rick Snyder, U.S. Senator Debbie was the Hierarchical Divine Lit- their teachers and parents partici- We aret hankful, for each new Council of the Order of St. Igna- Stabinow, and bishops and hier- urgy, with Metropolitan PHILIP pated in a play that expressed our morning with its light, tius, which continued through archs who could not attend were presiding, on Sunday morning. George Church. We are also proud Top photo: burning of the mortgage gratitude for all that we have been For rest and shelter of the night, Saturday morning. At 6 p.m. on read to those present. The church was filled to the raf- of ten new members of St. George given. (See the story on page 26.) for health and food, Saturday evening, Great Vespers After a delightful dinner, the ters and our St. George Choir and Middle photo: Metro- who were inducted into the Order politan PHILIP honors This was followed by a pancake For love and friends, for every- was held, followed by our Grand Very Reverend Ayman Kfouf, As- chanters lifted their voices to the of St. Ignatius. The Very Rev. Fr. Fr. Joseph and Kh. Ellen Antypas breakfast prepared by the adults thing Thy goodness sends. Banquet and the Burning of the sistant Pastor at St. George, pre- heavens. The most sacred and in- Joseph Antypas was inducted as a and served by the children. Here So today we offer this response Mortgage. We were honored to sented our main speaker, Metro- tegral part of the Divine Liturgy life-time member of the Order. Bottom photo: assembled for worship is what we said when we gave of praise have six hierarchs present: our politan PHILIP. The impressive was the offering and partaking of As to our future, we do not thanks: With a promise to follow You all Metropolitan PHILIP, Archbishop introduction, a beautiful film vi- the Precious Body and Blood of know what it will be, but we trust Heavenly Father, on Thanksgiv- of our days. JOSEPH of the Diocese of Los gnette outlining Sayidna PHILIP’s Christ, and the grace of the Holy that it will be greater than the ing Day Each day I am thankful for my Angeles and the West; Bishop life and career, was prepared by Spirit engulfed us all. present. With God’s help, our We bow our hearts to You and family and all the love they gave ANTOUN of the Diocese of Miami Father Ayman Kfouf as a tribute An enlightening sermon was Pastor, the Very Reverend Fa- pray. me. and the Southwest; Bishop NICH- to him. The Metropolitan was also given by our Bishop ANTHONY. ther Joseph Antypas, will lead us We give You thanks for all You’ve I am thankful to Abouna for pray- OLAS of Brooklyn and assistant given a painted portrait of himself Our dear Father Ayman Kfouf to greater visions in our second done ing every Sunday and reading the to the Metropolitan; Bishop AN- by our parish of St. George. was elevated to Archpriest. We millennium. This we ask through Especially for the gift of Jesus, Gospel at the Divine Liturgy THONY (Michael) of the Diocese Needless to say, the main ad- are very proud of him and the the prayers of our patron Saint Your Son. I am thankful to Sunday school of Toledo and the Midwest, and dress by Metropolitan PHILIP, and achievements of our parish of St. George. Amen!

30 January 2014 The Word 31 ORATORICAL FESTIVAL Pay It Forward

washed His disciples’ feet, and when He died to life for others but does not love God … then, in “Well done, thou minder to us, not a sign for the world. save us. He told His disciples to go out into the spite of his goodness he is spiritually dead be- good and faithful ser- If we do good works just for show, so that oth- world and pay it forward. This is what Orthodox cause he does not want to know God … They vant.” “Well done.” A ers can see, or even just to show God that we are Christianity teaches. Orthodoxy is a way of life, may be good, warm-hearted, ready to give away phrase I have seen be- doing them, He knows we did not earn a “well and this is that way of life. their last piece of bread, but they are indifferent fore on tests, papers, done.” A few years ago, I watched a touching In Matthew 19:16-30, we hear the story of to God, not accepting of Him.” Father Arseny con- homework. Written by movie called Pay It Forward. In this film, a sev- the wealthy young man who asked Jesus what he tinues, saying that, despite their goodness, some- my teachers when I re- enth grade teacher gives an assignment: to find must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus tells him to thing is “missing in their behavior, their charac- ceived a high mark on a way to change the world, then to put it into ac- “keep the commandments.” The man tells Jesus ter, their outlook on life: they had made a religion my assignments. It is tion. One of his students proposes an idea which he has done this. Jesus then tells him to sell his out of their own goodness, and for them that had fitting, then, that our he calls “pay it forward.” He performs three acts many possessions and give the money to the poor. replaced God.” Father Arseny is explaining that Good Teacher would of kindness, each to a different individual. These This troubles the man. He was able to keep the the acts themselves mean nothing unless they are say this to us, when we acts must be ones which the individual cannot Ten Commandments, but he did not want to part supported with love of God and neighbor. have completed this life do for him or herself. When he is thanked for his with his things. I believe Jesus was speaking di- Eternal life is not the trophy received on the according to His “grad- kindness, he tells the individual not to thank him, rectly to this generation as He told the young man last level of our video game. You do not earn it by ing rubric.” but to pay it forward to three more people. The these words. Today, more than ever, this is our simply going through the correct rituals of but- This grading ru- kind acts multiply: three, nine, twenty-seven, and struggle as people. We are a materialistic nation. ton combinations to defeat the obstacles. It isn’t bric does not include so on, until everyone in the world is helping his Every time Apple comes out with a new product, about completing the necessary objectives in life. spelling or grammar fellow man. every time a new brand name becomes popular, It is more like singing. You can sing every note or arithmetic. It does This seventh grader discovered the key to a every time a new videogame hits Gamestop, we clearly and in tune, but if you don’t connect with not measure our intelli- utopian society. Is this a realistic idea? Is this pos- flock to the malls to purchase the latest iPad, the song, if your heart isn’t in it, it means nothing gence. With this rubric, sible in today’s world? Maybe not. But it could purse, or zombie slaying paraphernalia. This man to the audience, and it does nothing for you. As it is possible for every- be. This is exactly what we are called to do as wanted eternal life, as we do, but his heart wasn’t my quote from Father Arseny tells us, you must one to receive a “well Christians. Jesus asks us to feed the hungry, visit invested in helping others. He did what he could do everything correctly AND have your heart in done.” But at school, the sick and imprisoned, and ransom captives. do without feeling anything for the people. Then, the right place. And THAT is why obtaining eter- my teachers don’t know Why? These people can’t pay us back. But what when something was asked of him that would nal life is SO HARD. Jesus never said it would be if I threw together an if everyone in this room pays it forward? Think bring discomfort, he couldn’t do it, because what easy. In fact, He told us many times that it would essay at 1 o’clock in the morning the day it was of how quickly the kindness could multiply. One he did for eternal life, he did for show. He said, be hard, that we would be rejected by the world, due, or if I carefully crafted my paper. My teacher person can clothe a homeless child. Fifty people “Look, Lord, I did this, this, and this.” As people, that we must take up our cross and follow Him … doesn’t know what my best work looks like if all can provide medicine for sick children in under- we would see him on the street and comment on But He also said He would be with us, because, he has seen is my 1 o’clock in the morning essays. developed countries. And there are people close how good a person he is, because he was honest as He said in Matthew 19:26, “With men this is Our Good Teacher knows whether we have actu- to home who need our help as well. The girl in our and honored his parents and went to all the reli- impossible, but with God all things are possible.” ally DESERVED a “well done.” We cannot pretend class who drops her books in the hallway. The co- gious services. But Jesus knows why he did them. With God, we an keep the commandments, with we have compassion in our hearts. We cannot worker who has fallen behind schedule. The fam- Jesus knows this man’s actions were for personal God, we can keep our heart invested in our other- pretend we tried our best. We cannot pretend our ily that just moved to the neighborhood from out- gain, not love of others. wise meaningless actions, and, with God, we can intentions were unselfish. As Jesus tells us in Mat- of-state. People can pay it forward and perpetuate In the book Father Arseny, A Cloud of Wit- pay it forward, and continue to pay it forward, thew 6:16-18, “Moreover, when you fast, do not the cycle. The teacher tells his student that even nesses, one of Father Arseny’s spiritual children not for eternal life, not to receive the well done, be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. if this plan does not succeed, he will receive an A relates that Father Arseny, while explaining the but to help the people in the world who are rely- For they disfigure their faces that they may ap- for effort. The student replies that he didn’t do it importance of faith and love of neighbor, points ing on us. I know what I’ve said is a lot to re- pear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, for the grade. He did it to see the world change. to Saint Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. Fa- member, and most of it will soon be forgotten. they have their reward. But you, when you fast, This is what our God has asked us to do. Kind- ther Arseny quotes Corinthians 13:2-3, “If I have But when you leave here today, I ask that you take anoint your head and wash your face, so that you ness for the sake of kindness, not to seek reward. all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not three things from what I’ve said: do nothing for do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Not to hold ourselves up and say, “Look at me! have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my pos- show, keep your heart in your actions, and pay it Father who is in the secret place; and your Father Aren’t I so good?” but rather to humble ourselves sessions, and if I hand over my body to be burned, forward. Thank you. who sees in secret will reward you openly.” Ac- to others. I learned recently that my school’s mot- but do not have love, I gain nothing.” Father Arse- cording to The Orthodox Study Bible, it is for this to is “not to be ministered unto, but to minister.” ny goes on to say, “Deep faith in God and love for Caitlyn Rose Bradley (19) is from St. John of Damascus Church, reason that we anoint ourselves on Holy Wednes- This is the lesson our Teacher has been trying to Dedham, MA, and is the Judges’ Choice your brother are inseparable, and if a man does from the Diocese of Worcester and New England. day, and do not have an “Ash Wednesday” during teach us from day one, when He was born for us, good deeds, loves people, perhaps even gives his the Lenten season. Oil is transparent; it is a re- when He healed the world’s infirmities, when He

32 January 2014 The Word 33 WEST COAST

down and answered the curious boy: “I know it seems like a very hard task, son, and I know I am sacrificing a lot to compete, but the prize is worth the pain I will go through to get it.” Sacred “And how can you be so sure that you will be music institute given the reward if you can even get to California?” “Ah” said the father, “this is the better question. If you don’t have faith and believe in those people who started this competition, then you will never Thursday, February 20th to Sunday, February 23rd, 2014 find the strength to make it to California.” “Is this why mom isn’t signing up with you, dad? Is it because she doesn’t think she will get the prize if she can win the competition?” Looking to his wife with saddened eyes, the fa- ther replied to his son. “I’m afraid so. I hope that “ THE one day your mom will believe in the competition in the same way that I do, so that she will sign up herself. I hope to inspire you as well, son.” As the father finished speaking, his turn to sign up for the competition finally came. PASSION “Sign me up too, dad! I could sit on your back and keep you company while you crawl!” “Son,” the father replied, “you must make the decision to participate on your own. I can only OF CHRIST ” On Faith help to guide you, and hopefully this will lead you to make the right choices. An archer only has con- BRIDEGROOM MATINS YOUTH MUSIC MINISTRY SESSION A married couple once took their son to a com- trol of his arrow while he holds it on the bow. Once petition held on the coast of New York. Everyone he lets go, he can only pray that he aimed the ar- HYMN OF KASSIANI BYZANTINE CHANT who knew of the contest was urged to participate. row so that it will hit its target.” The rules were simple: crawl on your hands and Saying this, the father kissed his wife goodbye HOLY THURSDAY VOCAL TECHNIQUES knees to the coast of California. Provisions would and knelt down to bid his son farewell. “I hope LAMENTATIONS SACRED MUSIC CHOIR CONCERT be made so that, if accepted, each participant to see you somewhere on the road to California, would be given food and water whenever needed. my beautiful arrow. I hope you will believe in this A CHANTER’S JOURNEY THROUGH HOLY WEEK The reward for completing the given task howev- competition so that you too can share in the prizes er, justifies the strenuous guidelines - an eternity with me. After all, what’s a lifetime of sacrifice for ICONOGRAPHY & HYMNOGRAPHY: THE LANGUAGE OF OUR PRAYER of exceeding joy and satisfaction, where there is an eternity of joy? Nothing more than a blink of neither hunger, nor thirst, nor sickness nor sor- the eye.” Welcome all Choir Singers, Directors and Chanters row. At first glance, the child was confused at the With this, the father got on his hands and guidelines and turned to his father, who was now knees, and headed west. waiting in line to sign up for the competition. “How is it possible to crawl for that long, dad?” G. Philip Sayegh asked the son in a perplexed and eager tone. “Sure- ly a competition like this would take a lifetime to even finish! Wouldn’t you want to stay with me and St. Luke Antiochian Orthodox Church • Garden Grove, California mom instead of leaving us?” With a comforting smile, the father looked For more information please contact CHRISFARHA COX.NET

34 January 2014 THE WORD 358 Mountain Road Periodical postage paid at PO Box 5238 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Englewood, NJ 07631-5238

START THE NEW YEAR WITH A PROMISE TO HELP THOSE IN NEED

Heritage & Learning Center Antiochian Village Retired Clergy Housing Allowance Archdiocese Departments Clergy Symposium & Convention Assistance College Conference Task Force for J erusalem Balamand Theological Academy Project Mexico IOCC Married Seminarian Assistance Youth Workers Conference & Soyo Leadership Training Syrian Relief

For more information call 201-871-1355, or e-mail: [email protected] or visit www.orderofstignatius.org.

THE ORDER • 358 MOUNTAIN ROAD • ENGLEWOOD, NJ 07631