Official Publication of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia VOL. 78 - No. 04 MARCH 05, 2017 ENGLISH VERSION

METROPOLITAN STEFAN’S GREAT FAST MEDITATION FOR THE FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT

The Great Fast is a gift to you and to me, offering us an opportunity to examine the way we follow Jesus Christ in our day-to-day life. A meaningful journey through Lent ought to unsettle our comfort zones. One of these comfort zones might be an attitude which can overtake us all, that of living in a manner which reflects an attitude of entitlement. Recall how Jesus was tempted three times by the devil. In the first temptation, Jesus was asked to turn the stones into loaves of bread. Jesus replied, “Man does not live by bread alone”. In the second temptation, Jesus was asked to worship the devil. Jesus answered, “You must worship the Lord your God, and serve Him alone”. In the third temptation, Jesus was told to throw himself off the top of the synagogue so that God would send his angels to save him. Jesus answered, “You must not put the Lord your God to the test”.

Three times Jesus was tempted to make himself equal to God. Three times he rejected the temptation and chose God’s way of doing things, God’s will for him. And what about us? When we choose to live as if more is better, and that luxuries are really necessities, which are we choosing, God or ourselves? We can also believe that with power and resources, we can accomplish much more. Who are we choosing, God or ourselves, when we get what we want in less than desirable ways as long as we have a good purpose in the getting? Do we count on our prayers to God to make everything right after having ourselves contributed to the development of difficult situations, perhaps by choosing to ignore our own or others’ needs? Let’s remember Jesus’ answer, “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test”.

Great Fast is a gift to continually ask ourselves, “God or ourselves?”

Highlights inside this issue:

METROPOLITAN STEFAN’S GREAT FAST MEDITATION FOR THE SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT - Pg. 3 FIRST SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST MARCH 5, 2017

CALL TO DISCIPLESHIP and the prophets had philosopher, Aristotle, pick ourselves up again foretold. The words of stated that man does through a good, sincere, “We have found the One Christ, “Come, follow not live alone, but within and contrite confession about Whom Moses Me” were so powerful to the community. And the and worthy reception wrote in the law, and Philip that he sought out individuals with whom of the Most Blessed also the prophets, Jesus, Nathanael to come and he has contact has an Eucharist. the son of Joseph from see for himself. influence upon him/her, Nazareth.” (John 1:45) and that influence can In so doing, we shall As with all called to either be a change for continually grow The Lord called ordinary discipleship by the Lord, the good or not. This spiritually closer to the men, fishermen by trade, that new disciple is to effect, good or bad, Lord Himself. For in the to help Him in His invite others to service could be long-lasting. Eucharist, Jesus Himself mission – to establish the in the Lord. Each and May we choose Christ is present - His very Body Kingdom of God already every one of us is free and His way of salvation. and Blood, given to us here on earth. The first to respond yes, positively May we recognize that to sustain us during our called was Andrew, to the call or not. Each there is great power in earthly journey to the then Peter and John, person has been given prayer and that fasting Heavenly Kingdom. followed by Philip who by God a free will to helps discipline us, found Nathanael and make either a positive or enabling us to withstand invited him to come and negative decision. the temptations of the - Rev. D. George see Jesus of Nazareth, Evil one. Whenever Worschak the One whom Moses The ancient Greek we fall into sin, may we

IS GOD CALLING YOU TO CONSIDER RELIGIOUS LIFE?

I invite women and men who have given thought to considering religious life to meet with me, so as to help me understand thoughts and hopes cherished by candidates. What are the perceptions of religious or monastic life today? What are women and men considering religious life today anticipating from choosing consecrated life and ministry? Are there challenges faced by potential candidates which we as a Church do not fully understand? It would assist me to consider what I as Archbishop may facilitate to assist men and women to choose religious life. I propose to meet as a group at a place, time and day most convenient to those who respond, or individually, if preferred.

If you would like to participate, kindly send an email to my attention at [email protected]. Please provide your name, address, phone number, and indicate a preferred time to meet; that is, weekday or weekend, and time of day. Your interest and information will remain completely confidential with me. I will then suggest a time and place to meet most convenient to respondents.

Thank you for your anticipated assistance in helping me to understand and nurture God’s call to religious life today.

Archbishop Stefan Soroka

MARCH 05, 2017 2 METROPOLITAN STEFAN’S GREAT FAST MEDITATION FOR THE SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT

A meaningful journey through Lent ought to unsettle our comfort zones. One of these comfort zones might be an attitude of living with an attitude of entitlement. Recall how some of the apostles were arguing among themselves as to who was the most important. Jesus sat them down and said, “If anyone wishes to rank first, he must remain the last one of all and the servant of all” (Mk. 9:36). How do you and I approach Jesus?

Recall how the Gospels tell of us people jeering, insulting and mocking Jesus on the cross. When you and I judge others, laugh or bully others for what we perceive as different in the way they do things or present themselves, are we not like those unpleasant persons at the foot of the cross? Are we setting ourselves as more important than others just as the apostles did? The friends of the paralytic in today’s Gospel reveal to us how we ought to witness to Jesus Christ. They were so motivated that they even made a hole in someone’s roof to get their friend to Jesus for healing. Jesus tells them that the paralytic is healed because of the faith of these friends. They vividly reveal what being a servant to one another calls us to do. Others around us are thirsting to hear the Icon of the Healing of the healing words of Jesus Christ, and not demeaning, critical or bullying Paralytic words. Dare to be a servant of others, presenting them to Jesus Christ for healing in our prayers, with our words of love and encouragement, and forgiveness. Take the challenge!

Lancaster, PA Mission Parish Moves to a New Location

The St. Andrew Parish Mission in Lancaster, Pa. has moved to a new location – the chapel of the Dominican Sisters located at 1834 Lititz Pike, Lancaster PA 17601. The Divine Liturgy is celebrated Sundays at 1 p.m.

Pictures at the new location are on the FaceBook page at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/ukrainianchurchlancasterpa/? ref=bookmarks

The Website is : http://nativitybvmchurch.wixsite.com/st-andriy

MARCH 05, 2017 3 Readings First Two Weeks of the Great Fast Gen. 1:1-13, Gen. 1:24-2:3 Gen.2:20-3:20, Gen 4:16-26; Gen. 5:32-6:8

Salvation History Recounted during Old Testament Genesis Readings in Presanctified Liturgies

During the Great Fast, Monday through Friday are aliturgical days, that is days on which the Divine Liturgy is not celebrated. Why? Since these are days of fast, it is inappropriate to celebrate the Divine Liturgy. However, the church provides a Eucharistic prayer service, a combination of vespers and liturgy without a consecration. The hosts are presanctified usually at the Sunday Divine Liturgy preceding the Presanctified Liturgy. The composition of the Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts are attributed to St. Gregory.

The Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts provides the faithful with an opportunity to receive the Holy Eucharist on Wednesday and Fridays of the Great Fast.

In addition, the faithful are nourished on the Old Testament Holy Scripture during these services. During the Great Fast, the readings are from the Book of Genesis. During Holy Week, the readings are from the Book of Exodus.

During the first two weeks of the Great Fast, the creation story is recalled, when God created everything, included our first parents Adam and Eve and then rested on the seventh day. The readings continue with the fall of man in the Garden of Eden and death entering into the world. The story of Cain killing Abel is recounted and at the end of the second week of the Great Fast, Noah is introduced to the faithful in the Genesis reading. Throughout the readings of the Presanctified Lituriges, over and over the faithful will experience the salvific acts of God with the just, in what is known as salvation history.

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MARCH 05, 2017 4 Transfiguration of Our Lord Parish in Nanticoke, PA Celebrates Meatfare Sunday

On Sunday, February 19th following the Divine Liturgy, the parish community held their annual Myasopusna dinner. The parish began this celebration 10 years ago with the desire to live their traditional church roots and to share their culture with the local community. Today the feast is so well known in the surrounding community that many people begin asking about when the Feastday is coming a month and of Transfiguration of weeks in advance. Our Lord Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. Entertainment was *(Myah-si-POO-snah, provided by; The Kazka meaning: good-bye to Ukrainian Folk Ensemble, meat, i.e. Meatfare. St. Mary’s Traditional Ukrainian Dancers, The In our Eastern Church Englot Sisters and the tradition this past week Holy Year Choir. we were eating all remaining meat products Everyone who attended in our homes as we thoroughly enjoyed prepare for the Great themselves. Fast (Lent) and today, we eat the last meat we The people received will partake of until we the following celebrate the triumphant Greeting in the Resurrection of Our Lord Program: and Savior Jesus Christ (Easter). Tomorrow we Welcome! Vitaemo! will begin saying good- bye to all dairy products Welcome and thank so that we will not be fasted for the forty days and Eve before sin you for coming to tempted, from within our from meat and dairy entered the world (The our Мясипуста* own home, to break our products, i.e. all animal Fall of Man) because [Myasopusna] dinner forty (40) day fast. In products, eating only with our parish community years past our church vegetation as did Adam (continued on next page) MARCH 05, 2017 5 Transfiguration of Our Lord Parish in Nanticoke, PA Celebrates Meatfare Sunday

(continued from previous page) we remember that we tax collector, which mainly with the tools Jesus Christ. are not in the Garden reminds us to look at Jesus Christ gave us: of Eden, i.e. Heaven, ourselves and to turn to Prayer and Fasting. As The local news paper, and that is our ultimate God as did Zacchaeus. an athlete prepares for The Times Leader, destination. the event by practicing, reported on the event The journey will be we too prepare ourselves and the article can be We began preparing long, there will be some for a healthy spiritual found on-line. ourselves for the journey difficulties, but they life through prayer and https://timesleader. through the Great will not be impossible fasting so that we may com/news/ Fast three weeks ago nor will they crush us. triumphantly enter the local/636357/ with the hearing of the Our aim is to grow in Feast of Feasts, Pascha, ukrainian-catholic- Gospel pericope about spiritual strength through The Resurrection (Easter) church-prepares-for-fast- Zacchaeus, the repentant practice of self-control with Our Lord and Savior with-feast

MARCH 05, 2017 6 A Lenten Spirit of Giving Year-Round

As the time of Holy Lent board members for draws near, we prepare the management and to undertake the Great leadership of the Food Fast with joy, engaging in Pantry. prayer, acts of abstinence and fasting, and of Father Paul and the course, acts of charity. pastoral Council at St. In January of 2017, Michael’s has sought to St. Michael’s Ukrainian increase awareness of Catholic Church in those less needy in our Cherry Hill, NJ, officially local community, and with joined the Cherry Hill the coming of the Great Food Pantry as an official Fast, this is a perfect time member organization. to reach out to those in The Cherry Hill Food need. Already, we have Pantry was founded dropped off our first Father Paul Makar (Pastor, St. Michael’s by a conglomeration shipment of food, and Ukrainian Catholic Church, Cherry Hill, NJ), of local area religious are seeking to continue and Dr. Claudia Petruncio, D.O. (Cantor, St. organizations in 2008 to with food donations Michael’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, Cherry help address the issue of throughout the year for Hill, NJ), dropping off donated food goods for food shortages for local the Pantry. In addition, Cherry Hill Food Pantry with Janet Giordano seniors and the needy. our Knights of Columbus (Director of the Cherry Hill Food Pantry). The pantry provides food Council (Most Holy to over 450 families every Eucharistic Council 6760) The fasting seasons of fully conform to the Truth month from a 4100 sq. will once again hold its our Holy Church is a that abides in the Light foot facility that is set up Baby Bottle fundraiser great way for us to show of Christ, we in turn are like a small supermarket during the Great Fast the love of God that we transformed in love. Such – this layout lets client to support Options for are all called to nurture love naturally pours forth families procure food in a Women, a Cherry Hill in our hearts. Almsgiving from our very being. This safe, clean, and dignified pregnancy outreach and is a natural outpouring of is the basis for giving alms environment. In addition, rescue center that helps our communal Eucharisitc and caring for the poor, the pantry provides rescue innocent babies life. Since we all share the sick, and the destitute. services such as medical (and women and men) communion with one It is our transformation by screenings, and referrals from the scourge of another as the True Body the Light of Christ that for other social services, abortion, and provides of Christ, and Christ enables such generosity, such as assistance with support to mothers in shares His unconditional and we at St. Michael’s, bills, elderly outreach, carrying their pregnancies love with all those who as well as every other etc. Local member to term, as well as post- allow Him to reside in Ukrainian Catholic organizations provide natal infant care, and their hearts, we, in turn, Community, seek to let not only food for the counseling for expecting are all called to share ourselves, our community, Food Pantry, but also mothers and fathers. We Christ’s love with all. This be transformed by Christ. volunteers to run and will also be supporting call is intensified during a May our almsgiving not maintain the facility as the “Grandfather and fasting season, especially be the centerpiece of our well as raise funds for its Grandmother Project” during the Great Fast. lives, but rather be the continuing operation. In [Дідусь і Бабусям Проєкт] For when we seek result of our repentance addition, each member sponsored by the United repentance from God and communion with organization provides Ukrainian American Relief with our whole heart, God and with each other. two people to act as Committee, Inc. [ЗУДАК]. and when we seek to MARCH 05, 2017 7 Great Fast Vespers - Philadelphia Deanery

The Clergy of the Philadelphia Protopresbyterate (Deanery) will again celebrate Vespers in various parishes in the area every Sunday of the Great Fast. Each Sunday, besides Vespers, priests will be available to hear Confessions beginning at 4:00PM.

March 5th Wilmington, St. Nicholas

March 12th Philadelphia, St. Nicholas

March 19th Fox Chase, Holy Trinity Chapel, Sisters of St. Basil the Great

March 26th Philadelphia, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

April 2nd Jenkintown, St. Michael

2017 South Anthracite Deanery Lenten Confession Schedule

During the Great Fast, the grace of forgiveness Shamokin, Pa. Catholic Church the priests of the South through confession by Hazleton, Pa. Anthracite Deanery visit entering the door of the Tuesday, April 4 neighboring churches to confessional, the true St. John the Baptist Protection of the Mother offer the Holy Mystery Door of Mercy. Ukrainian Catholic Church of God Ukrainian Catholic of Penance. It provides Maizeville, Pa. Church an excellent opportunity Monday, April 3 McAdoo, Pa. for the faithful to receive Assumption of the BVM Protection of the Mother the Holy Mystery of Ukrainian Catholic Church of God Ukrainian Catholic St. Michael Ukrainian Reconciliation as they Centralia, Pa. Church Catholic Church spiritually prepare for the Marion Heights, Pa. Frackville, Pa. celebration of Pascha. Ss. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church St. Nicholas Ukrainian St. Nicholas Ukrainian The following is the Mt. Carmel, Pa. Catholic Church Catholic Church visiting priests’ confession Minersville, Pa. St. Clair, Pa. schedule for the parishes Nativity BVM Ukrainian of the South Anthracite Catholic Church St. Michael Ukrainian Deanery. Confessions Middleport, Pa. Catholic Church Confessions are heard will be heard on the listed Shenandoah, Pa. from 6:00 PM until 7:00 dates from 6 p.m. to 7 Transfiguration of Our PM in each parish . p.m. All Catholic faithful Lord Ukrainian Catholic Thursday, April 6 are invited to receive Church St. Michael Ukrainian MARCH 05, 2017 8 Sunday Devotions Schedule during the Great Fast in the Parishes of the South Anthracite Deanery During this Lenten season, the faithful of the 1st Sunday of the Great Fast, March 5 at South Anthracite Protopresbytery of the Ukrainian 3 p.m. Holy Transfiguration Church, Shamokin, Pa. Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia will continue the decades-old tradition of gathering for Lenten 2nd Sunday of the Great Fast, March 12 at devotions on Sunday afternoons in the churches of 3 p.m. St. Michael’s Church, Shenandoah, Pa, the deanery. During the services, the host pastor will also give a sermon. 3rd Sunday of the Great Fast, March 19 at 3 p.m. St. Michael’s Church, Frackville, Pa. The Lenten devotions begin each Sunday at 3 p.m. and are coordinated by the Protopresbyter Very 4th Sunday of the Great Fast, March 26 at 3 p.m. Ss. Peter and Paul Church, Mt. Carmel, Pa. Rev. Michael Hutsko and the clergy of the South

Anthracite Deanery. After the services, a cake and 5th Sunday of the Great Fast, April 2 at coffee social is held in the respective parish halls. 3 p.m. St. Michael’s Church, Hazleton, Pa. The proceeds from the weekly collection benefit the St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Seminary in Flowery (Palm) Sunday, April 9 at 3 p.m. Washington, D.C. St. Nicholas Church, Minersville, Pa.

LEAGUE OF UKRAINIAN CATHOLICS OF AMERICA

Annual Lenten Retreat Schedule ST. MARY’S VILLA RETREAT CENTER, SLOATSBURG, NY MARCH 31, APRIL 1, 2, 2017 RETREAT DIRECTOR: ARCHMANDRITE GEORGE APPLEYARD

THEME FOR RETREAT: “ THE EXODUS - THEN AND NOW ”

FRIDAY: ARRIVAL 7:30 Opening Remarks - Introduction CONFERENCE I Akathist Prayer Service to the Mother of God

SATURDAY: FIFTH SATURDAY OF THE GREAT FAST—AKATHISTOS SATURDAY 7:45 Morning Prayers 8:00 Breakfast Every Friday in March, 2017 9:15 CONFERENCE II 3/3 – 3/10 – 3/17 – 3/24 – 3/31 11:00 Divine Liturgy - Homily 12:30 Lunch 5pm til 7:30 pm 2:00 CONFERENCE III Confessions Please join us at 5:30 Dinner 6:30 Anointing for Healing Service Nativity B.V.M. Ukrainian Catholic Church Hall Confessions or Private Conference 8:30 CONFERENCE IV 211 Grace Street

SUNDAY: FIFTH SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST— MARY OF EGYPT Reading, PA 19611 7:45 Morning Prayers 8:00 Breakfast Call 610-376-0586 for more info 9:00 CONFERENCE V Not your ordinary fish fry. Menu changes weekly. 10:00 Divine Liturgy - Homily 12:00 Lunch Departure

MARCH 05, 2017 9 During the season of the Great Lent, the ancient discipline did not permit joyous and triumphant celebrations, such as the Divine Liturgy, and so the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts was introduced. It is a special service, a combination of Vespers and Communion and is traditionally celebrated on Wednesdays and Fridays of the six weeks of the Great Lent, and during the beginning of Holy Week. Please join us in prayer this Lent!

Wednesdays 5:00 PM

March 1, 15, 22, 29, and April 5 In the Byzantine Chapel (crypt level) Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception 400 Michigan Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20017 Sponsored by St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Seminary

MARCH 05, 2017 10 Save the Date

MARCH 19 FEAST OF ST. JOSEPH CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF ST. JOSEPH ADULT CARE HOME - 11:00 AM SLOATSBURG, NY

APRIL 1ST SYMPOSIUM ON BISHOP SOTER ORTYNSKY, OSBM SPONSORED BY SHEVCHENKO SOCIETY. MANOR COLLEGE, JENKINTOWN, PA 2-5 PM

APRIL 9TH PALM SUNDAY – DISTRIBUTION OF BLESSED PUSSY WILLOWS IN PARISHES, FAITHFUL ANOINTED.

APRIL 14TH GOOD FRIDAY – A MUST TO PARTICIPATE AND VENERATE EXPOSITION OF HOLY SHROUD IN PARISHES

APRIL 16TH EASTER (GREGORIAN AND JULIAN CALENDARS) RESURRECTION MATINS AND DIVINE LITURGY – YOU DARE NOT MISS!

APRIL 21ST CONCERT – MUSIC FROM THE UKRAINIAN SACRED CHORAL TRADITION A COMBINED MALE CHORUS OF 50 SINGERS OF CHOIRS FROM UKRAINE, CANADA AND USA. 7:00 PM - UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CATHEDRAL OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, PHILADELPHIA

APRIL 23RD HIERARCHICAL DIVINE LITURGY AND BLESSING OF NEWLY INSTALLED ELEVATOR AND NEW SIGN AT UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ANNUNCIATION OF BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, MELROSE PARK, PA.

APRIL 25-27TH SPRING CLERGY CONFERENCE, UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC ARCHEPARCHY OF PHILADELPHIA

MAY 14TH MOTHER’S DAY. OFFERING THANKSGIVING FOR YOUR MOTHER IN PRAYER AT CHURCH

MAY 21ST 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF PRIESTHOOD OF VERY REV. MSGR. RONALD POPIVCHAK, SS. PETER & PAUL UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, BRIDGEPORT, PA 12:00 NOON.

JULY 30TH ANNUAL SEMINARY UKRAINIAN DAYS AT MINERSVILLE, PA

AUGUST 13TH ANNUAL PILGRIMAGE OF DORMITION OF BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, SLOATSBURG, NY, SPONSORED BY SISTERS SERVANTS OF MARY IMMACULATE

AUGUST 19, 20TH UKRAINIAN FESTIVAL AT UKRAINIAN HOMESTEAD, LEHIGHTON, PA

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MARCH 05, 2017 11 Save the Date (continued from previous page)

AUGUST TH ND ANNUA PIGRIMAGE AT ASSUMPTION OF VM UKRAINIAN ATHOI HURH ENTRAIA PA

AUGUST TH UKRAINIAN FESTIVA AT TRYU HORSHAM PA

SEPTEMER ST UKRAINIAN ATHOI ERGY OF PHIADEPHIA RETREAT ONG RANH N

OTOER ST ARHIEPARHIA PIGRIMAGE OF FEAST OF PROTETION OF MOTHER OF GOD MONASTERY GROUNDS OF ORDER OF SISTERS OF ST. ASI FO HASE PA DIVINE ITURGY AT AM MOEEN AT PM

OTOER TH MOEEN ANOINTING FOR HEAING AND VENERATION OF HOY REIS OF ESSED OSAPHATA HORDASHEVSKA SSMI EERATION OF TH ANNIVERSARY OF FOUNDING OF SISTERS SERVANTS OF MARY IMMAUATE. PM UKRAINIAN ATHOI ATHEDRA OF IMMAUATE ONEPTION PHIADEPHIA PA

NOVEMER TH HIERARHIA DIVINE ITURGY EERATING TH ANNIVERSARY OF FOUNDING OF ORDER OF ASIIAN FATHERS OF ST. OSAPHAT YEARS OF MINISTRY IN USA AND TH ANNIVERSARY OF ANONIATION OF ISHOP MARTYR OSAPHAT OSM. AM – ARREN MI.

DEEMER TH HRISTMAS – NATIVITY OF OUR ORD AND SAVIOR ESUS HRIST YOUR PRAYERFU PARTIIPATION IN ITURGY IS YOUR EST GIFT TO ESUS TO YOURSEF AND TO OTHERS

“Baked Haddock” Fish Dinner at Olyphant, PA

The 6th annual Meatless Meal for LENT “BAKED HADDOCK” FISH DINNER" Sponsored by Ss. Cyril & Methodius Ukrainian Catholic Church, Olyphant, Pa. will be held on FRIDAY April 7th, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. At the REGAL ROOM (Ballroom/side entrance) 216 Lackawanna Avenue, Olyphant, PA.

Tickets are $13.00 per dinner. Sit Down or Take Out!! Baked haddock, potato, vegetable, cole slaw, roll and dessert. Call 570-383-9487 for Reservations.

*Deadline for pre-sold Tickets at $13.00 is Monday, April 3, 2017 *LIMITED amount of Dinners will be available at the Door $15.00

Website; stcyrils.weconnect.com Rev. Nestor Iwasiw,Pastor (570)-489-2271 MARCH 05, 2017 12 Forgiveness Vespers at St. Nicholas, Passaic

On Sunday, February 26th the faithful from the area gathered at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church in Passaic, NJ to take part in the solemn service of Forgiveness Vespers. Pastor Fr. Andriy Dudkevych together with area clergy from the New Jersey Deanery (Fr. Ivan Turyk, Fr. Vasyl Vladyka, Fr. Orest Kunderevych, Fr. Ruslan Romanyuk) bilingually concelebrated the Vespers of Forgiveness. After the Gospel Reading, Fr. Vasyl Vladyka of the Carteret parish and Fr. Ivan Turyk of the Perth Amboy parish gave inspiring homilies on the significance of repentance and renewal during the Great Fast. Faithful then approached to receive and to give forgiveness of the clergy and of each other. At the conclusion, Fr. Andriy invited all to the church hall for fellowship and a Lenten meal prepared by the St. Nicholas Fr. Andriy Dudkevych, Fr. Vasyl Vladyka, Fr. Ivan Turyk, Fr. Ruslan Chapter of the League Romanyuk, Fr. Orest Kunderevych of Ukrainian Catholics.

MARCH 05, 2017 13 Funeral Services Held for Horace S. Hitchens

Bridgeport, Pa.—Family, bishops, priests and deacons, religious sisters, parishioners and friends bid farewell to Horace S. Hitchens, 73, during his funeral Divine Liturgy celebrated in Ss. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church here, Monday, February 20, 2017. Mr. Hitchens, father of the Very Reverend Robert J. Hitchens, St. Josaphat Seminary rector and pastor of the Ukrainian National Shrine of the Holy Family in Washington, D.C. unexpectedly fell asleep in the Lord, Thursday, February 16.

Metropolitan-Archbishop Stefan Soroka, of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia and spiritual leader of the Ukrainian Catholic Church in the United States, was the main celebrant and homilist at the services. Bishop John Bura, auxiliary bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia, Father Robert Hitchens, Msgr. Ronald Popivchak, and many other brother priests were also celebrants during the funeral Divine Liturgy.

In his homily, Metropolitan Stefan commented, “This holy place is where Horace was baptized and confirmed by Fr. Lizak; where he received the Holy Eucharist and served at the altar as an altar boy beginning with Fr. Sheremeta during the Photo of the late Horace S. Hitchens and his early hours of weekday Liturgies; where Horace wife Maryellen renewing their vows during and his beloved wife Maryellen, received the Holy the Marriage Anniversary Celebration at the Sacrament of Marriage; where they raised their Cathedral in 2016. sons, Robert, David, Keith and Mark; where the family prayed for the soul of their beloved son Mark who died suddenly just a few years ago.

Metropolitan Stefan recalled the participation of Horace and Maryellen in the annual celebration of marriage anniversaries held at the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception last October. Horace and Maryellen were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

“During the dinner and reception which follows in my home, after the Divine Liturgy, you could see the sweetheart gleam in Horace’s eye for his wife and the excitement of his love for her when he chose to speak and share something about their married Metropolitan Stefan poses for a picture with Fr. Robert Hitchens and his parents in 2016. (continued on next page) MARCH 05, 2017 14 Funeral Services Held for Horace S. Hitchens

(continued from previous page) years together. Often people are reluctant to speak about emotional things amidst strangers. And usually it is the wife who will speak. Yet, Horace showed great courage and joy in publicly proclaiming their happiness together.”

Sunday evening, Father Hitchens, together with his brother priests, led the Parastas services. In a poignant eulogy, Father Robert reminisced Metropolitan-Arcbhishop Stefan Soroka, Bishop John Bura, about his father and the Fr. Robert Hitchens, Msgr. Ronald Popivchak, Seminarians and loving relationship he Faithful at the Funeral of Horace S. Hitchens in Bridgeport, PA had with his beloved wife Maryellen. He driver”. Families loved is survived by his sons The nephews. Horace was recounted how his father him and would request Very Reverend Robert preceded in death by grew up in humble him as their driver. Mr. of Washington D.C. , his parents Horace A. beginnings, in a house, Hitchens was an avid David and wife Gale and Madeline B. Saboe without indoor plumbing hunter and fisherman of Schwenksville, Keith Hitchens, his son Mark, not far from the church and a true jack of all and wife Jamie of North wife of Elizabeth and his that was his spiritual trades, but his most Wales and his brother, sisters, Elaine Gregos home throughout his cherished title was “Pop- Gregory and wife Janet and Lorraine Denczi. entire lifetime. Pop”. of Souderton. In addition, he is survived by his Interment was in Ss. Horace was born in Besides being survived by grandchildren, Matthew, Peter and Paul Ukrainian Norristown and was his wife of over 50 years, Kaitlyn and William and Catholic Cemetery, King a graduate of Bishop Maryellen, Mr. Hitchens his many nieces and of Prussia, Pa. Kenrick High School, Class of 1961. He was a store director for Acme Markets for over 40 years, Metropolitan working in numerous Stefan at the stores. Most recently , he Cemetary was employed by First Service Student Bus Company for Colonial School District where he was affectionately known as “Mr. Harvey, the bus

MARCH 05, 2017 15 Pro-abortion Gov. Wolf would protect this heinous practice By Maria Gallagher, Legislative Director. Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation February 17, 2017 Even to describe this major metropolitan Pennsylvania women gruesome act which areas of Pennsylvania— for a ban on the I started to describe this causes the death of including Philadelphia, unconscionable practice. heinous practice to a an unborn child is to home to the notorious Meanwhile, pro-abortion woman—the mother of a invite nightmares. This abortionist Kermit Gov. Wolf has been daughter who had been abortion “technique” Gosnell. Gosnell is now circling the state, holding born prematurely—who dismembers a baby and serving life sentences news conferences literally trembled at the extracts the child “one for killing three full-term with representatives of description. What was it? piece at a time from babies by delivering the abortion industry It was the same painfully the uterus through the them alive then and their allies. He is accurate language use of clamps, grasping “snipping” their spinal threatening to veto a ban that Pennsylvania state forceps, tongs, scissors cords. Gosnell was also on brutal dismemberment Senator Michele Brooks or similar instruments.” convicted of involuntary abortions. This should used on the floor of The legislation would manslaughter in the death not be surprising, since the Senate, when she also change the legal of a female immigrant Wolf himself once served explained the act of limit for abortions in patient, Karnamaya as a clinic escort for a complete callousness Pennsylvania from six Mongar, who died Planned Parenthood that upwards of 2/3rds months’ to five months’ from an overdose of facility. of Pennsylvanians want gestation to acknowledge anesthesia administered to see outlawed. the medical advances by Gosnell’s woefully Wolf suggests his aim that have been made in under-trained staff. is not political (he is, It’s a method, Brooks saving premature infants. The Speaker of the House after all, up for re- explains, that is used SB3 recently passed of Representatives, Rep. election next year), but by abortionists to “end the state Senate by a Mike Turzai, wants to see medical. Yet, Senate Bill the life of a six-month- whopping 32-18 margin. a dismemberment ban 3 provides exceptions old (preborn) baby” by This vote accurately delivered to Governor to prevent the death of “tearing (her) legs and reflects the large support Tom Wolf’s desk. And the pregnant woman arms apart from (her) a dismemberment ban it should not be difficult, or “the substantial and body so (she) bleeds to has in the Keystone State. given that last session, irreversible impairment of death.” A statewide poll showed the House passed a a major bodily function that the vast majority similar measure by a of the woman.” As the legislator of Pennsylvanians— huge, bipartisan margin succinctly stated, Republicans, Democrats, (132-65). How is this for “Regardless of what side and Independents— unintended irony? The of the (abortion) issue a support a ban. Most It is important to note Governor’s website touts person is on, how can women surveyed back that both the sponsor the importance of early we possibly say that this the ban—in fact, 64% of the Senate bill, Sen. childhood education. is humane?” of female respondents Brooks, and the prime And yet Gov. Wolf now Brooks was talking about approved. sponsor of last session’s is campaigning against Senate Bill 3, which would House version, Rep. a bill that would prevent ban the brutal practice The poll showed a Kathy Rapp, are female. those same children of dismemberment dismemberment ban has This demonstrates from being torn limb by abortion. the support of a majority quite clearly the depth of residents in all the of support among (continued on next page)

MARCH 05, 2017 16 Pro-abortion Gov. Wolf would protect this heinous practice (continued from previous page) limb from their mothers’ diagnosis said, “Before “Guess what? The http://www. wombs—never to have I was even born…Mom doctors were wrong nationalrighttolifenews. the chance to read, to was told just abort him. about me never walking, org/news/2017/02/ write, or to dream. He’ll be too costly. He talking, and being blind. pro-abortion-gov-wolf- will always be in and “Yes, I have been in and would-protect-this- As one Facebook user out of hospitals. He will out of hospitals my whole heinous-practice/#. who had been branded never walk, talk. He will life, but (I am) glad to be WK7sc28rJaS with a poor prenatal be blind. alive.”

“Bitter Harvest” Now Playing in Select Theatres

The film, "Bitter Harvest" opened in theatres throughout the United States on Friday, February 24.

Set between the two World Wars and based on true historical events, BITTER HARVEST conveys the tragic story of the Holodomor, the genocidal famine engineered by the tyrant Joseph Stalin that resulted in the starvation of 7-10 million Ukrainians.

The film displays a powerful tale of love, honour, rebellion and survival at a time when Ukraine was forced to adjust to the horrifying territorial ambitions of the burgeoning Soviet Union. With an exceptional cast of established and rising stars, the film epically recreates one of the most dramatic and dangerous episodes in the history of 20th Century Europe.

Set in 1930s Ukraine, as Stalin advances the ambitions of communists in the Kremlin, young artist Yuri battles to save his lover Natalka from the Holodomor, the death-by-starvation program that ultimately killed 7-10 millions of Ukrainians by starvation.

A review of the film by The Chicago Tribune news service is found at the following link: http://www.freep.com/story/entertainment/ movies/2017/02/24/bitter-harvest-movie- review/98213806/

A review from the National Catholic Register is found at the following link: http://www.ncregister.com/blog/armstrong/bitter- harvest-portrays-the-secret-holocaust-in-ukraine

MARCH 05, 2017 17 Golden-domed Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

is the area where the priest meets the parents, godparents and the child to be baptized. In this area the exorcisms are condcuted over the child.

When one enters any Traditionally, the Ukrainian Catholic vestibule is the area Church, one notices there where the priest meets is a definite architectural the couple who will be layout of the religious receiving the Mystery edifice. Whether it is a of Crowning, leads the cathedral or a parish bethrotal prayers and church, a visitor will then the priest leads the notice three main areas bride and groom into the of the structure--the nave down the aisle for Vestibule or Narthex, the the Crowning Ceremony. Nave and the Sanctuary. The vestibule is the area The Vestibule or of the church where Narthex. The first parishioners welcome area one enters is the the bishop, with the vestibule area, the place traditional greeting of of welcome. This may bread and salt. be considered the lobby of the church, separated The Nave. The large from the nave by a set of area of the church or doors. But the vestibule cathedral usually with is more than simply a pews is called the nave. porch area of the church. Nave is associated with It has become the place the word ship or ark. of welcome. When you think of nave, think of navy. This is the area where the priest meets the casket The Church, our Heaven of the deceased and on Earth, is the place proclaims the Gospel. where the faithful come At the end of the funeral, to lay aside all cares of it is also the place for the life. final Gospel reading.

During the Mysteries of Initiation, the vestibule (continued on next page) The Vestibule or Narthex MARCH 05, 2017 18 Golden-domed Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (continued from previous page)

The symbolism of the ship or ark, the nave, may find its roots in the imagery of the Ark of Noah. Where did the righteous go to receive salavation durnig the time of Noah and the flood? They went, as God instructed them, into the Ark and there found their salvation.

Likewise, today the faithful come to church to seek their salvation and they gather in the nave of the church. The Nave The Sanctuary, the The sanctuary is the the vestibule, the nave buildings for the faithful Holy of Holies. The most sacred area of the and the sanctuary are our heaven on earth, sanctuary is separated church and all behavior comprise the structure where we gather in the from the nave by the in this area should of our churches, whether ark to receive salvation iconostas and the area be respectful and the it is a cathedral with and lay aside all cares in front of the iconostas liturgical appointments seating for 1700 people of life. known as the solea. and cleanliness of this or a small church that is The iconostas separates area should be a priority. home to a congregation (to be continued) Heaven from Earth. of several families. These These three main areas, The Sanctuary contains the tabernacle, the altar, the preparation table and the vesting table. Behind the altar is the bishop's chair.

From the sanctuary, through the Royal Doors of the iconostas, Jesus Christ comes to the faithful in the Word of God and in the flesh in the Holy Eucharist. The Sanctuary, the Holy of Holies

MARCH 05, 2017 19 “WE MUST BE OURSELVES!”

February 28, 2017

PASTORAL LETTER OF HIS BEATITUDE SVIATOSLAV TO THE FAITHFUL OF THE UKRAINIAN GREEK CATHOLIC CHURCH AND TO ALL PEOPLE OF GOOD WILL ON THE OCCASION OF THE 125th ANNIVERSARY OF THE BIRTH OF PATRIARCH JOSYF SLIPYJ

Lord, teach me to do exile and, finally, Your will, for You are my forced emigration… God. (Ps. 143:10) The Patriarch joined to himself the experiences Dear Sisters and Brothers of a hundred thousand in Christ! or even of millions of Ukrainians, for whom February 17th of this these decades became year marks the 125th the true via dolorosa per anniversary of the aspera ad astra (Way birth of Patriarch Josyf of the Cross through Slipyj – Confessor of hardships to the stars). the faith and longtime To be precise, this motto Primate of our Church. – “Through hardships to The Synod of Bishops the stars” – Josyf Slipyj of the Ukrainian Greek put on his episcopal coat Catholic Church has of arms in 1939. His instructed all the faithful clandestine episcopal to honor his memory this consecration took place entire year and to pray under conditions when Patriarch Josyf Cardinal Slipyj for his glorification here the Church was being on earth among the persecuted during of Christ, that enlightens callings, even though choir of the blessed and the Soviet occupation all, did become the guide external circumstances the saints. of Western Ukraine. for the future patriarch did not always contribute Metropolitan Andrei in his own life and in to their full realization. The life of Patriarch Josyf Sheptytsky, confined ministering to others. His years as a student has passed by in the by a serious illness coincided with the unrest whirlwind of the complex to a wheelchair, tried He came into this world, of World War I and and dramatic events of to provide successive a subject of the Austro- the desperate attempts the 20th century. He, leadership for the Hungarian monarchy, of our people to gain like no other, endured Church and searched and left it as an outcast independence and to almost all of the burdens for an individual, “whom of the last empire of the unite into one state. Josyf and the sufferings of no trials could break”. 20th century – the Soviet Slipyj received his priestly that historical period. The young bishop Josyf Empire. In his childhood, ordination from the hands His life lay against the probably felt that his young Josyf dreamed of of Metropolitan Andrei backdrop of revolutions ministry would become a becoming a priest or a in September of 1917 and two World Wars, path through hardships. scholar. With the blessing upon the Metropolitan’s the breakup of empires However, as the stars act and support of Vladyka return from Russian and the ever-changing as a guide for the sailor Andrei Sheptytsky he was captivity. His higher state borders; he not to become lost on the able to realize and join underwent imprisonment, stormy seas, so the light together these two great (continued on next page) MARCH 05, 2017 20 “WE MUST BE OURSELVES!” (continued from previous page) theological studies were of which was building his system, at the same world. The Patriarch and in Innsbruck, and then “new order” on the bones time he tirelessly and Confessor of the faith in Rome, amid the post- of millions of innocent relentlessly carried his understood that without war devastation and the victims and in denial of cross as a confessor of solid spiritual and great socio-political and eternal Christian and the faith and confirmed intellectual foundations a spiritual-moral crises in universal values. others in hope. His deep people will be doomed Europe of that time. In faith in God, faith in that to forget their roots, 1922, after completing In November 1944, after the Lord’s Providence to disorganization his learning abroad, the return to Western should defend the and self-abasement, Father Josyf returned to Ukraine of the Bolshevik Church, which the Lord to utter subjugation a new political reality in government and the Himself established and assimilation. his homeland. This time passing into eternal life and that no one could Consequently, Vladyka it was a restored Polish of Metropolitan Andrei, destroy, were for him Josyf Slipyj issues his [Second] Republic, in Vladyka Josyf took over spiritual supports and first decrees “in the which Ukrainians again the leadership of our guides in order not to free world” with respect found themselves in the Church. They describe lose himself in the midst to the establishment role of a discriminated that even a highly of the prickly thorns of and expansion of two national and religious placed officer of the his terrible trials. institutions: the Ukrainian minority. This is why the Soviet secret service, Catholic University and Head of our Church who was sent to L’viv Having received his the Cathedral of St. entrusted to him the in order to coordinate release in 1963, thanks Sophia. Notwithstanding leadership of the the violent liquidation to the efforts of Saint his advanced age, and Theological Seminary, of the Ukrainian Greek Pope John XXIII and U.S. not lamenting about the establishment of the Catholic Church and, President John Kennedy, his energy and health Ukrainian Theological having seen the young and, having arrived in having been broken by Scientific Society, and bishop in bishop’s Rome, Metropolitan Josyf years of imprisonment, the development of vestments during the never renounced his he visited each eparchy the Greek Catholic [metropolitan’s] funeral Ukrainian (though Soviet) and every exarchate Theological Academy in procession, whether with citizenship. Even so, the in the diaspora; he L’viv, which became the regret or “with knowledge “deported without right travelled to almost every leading scientific and of the matter”, noted: of return” archpastor parish, collecting not only educational centers not “How many crosses wanted to be together funds but even rallying only for Church circles, have they placed on with his suffering people, all “who were scattered” but even generally for that bishop! How is he at least to show solidarity into one nation fullof-its- the Ukrainian community supposed to bear them with his faithful who own-dignity under God of Halychyna (Galicia). all?” But in the night of remained in the house in his Particular Church. April 11th, 1945 the new of bondage. While in And ahead lay an Primate of the Ukrainian the West, he made great Patriarch Josyf Cardinal even greater test – the Greek Catholic Church, efforts in order to find Slipyj did not live to see Second World War. The together with other and gather together by only a few years the Ukrainian “bloodlands” bishops and wellknown those who, either by collapse of the Soviet collided with the center of priests, was arrested. He material need or political Union and its utter contact of two totalitarian served the next 18 years circumstances in the demise. He reposed in regimes – Hitler’s regime behind the walls of the homeland, had been and Stalin’s regime, each repressive Soviet penal scattered throughout the (continued on next page) MARCH 05, 2017 21 “WE MUST BE OURSELVES!” (continued from previous page) the Lord on September in the catacombs of the 7, 1984 and only in renewed Sobor of St. August 1992 his mortal Sophia” in Kyiv as a sign remains “returned” in of unity and sobornist’ of a stately and solemn our entire nation and her manner from Rome to unified Kyivan Church. L’viv, after the Ukrainian We should all work on people had gained their this task a great deal in state’s independence order to fulfill the last will and after the persecuted of this exemplary man of Church came out of the the Church! catacombs. But a true respite for his sleepless Meditating on the pages soul our great patriarch of the biography of bequeathed only then Patriarch Josyf, we may when “if it be God’s assume that in his youth, will and the desire of dreaming about his Patriarch Josyf Cardinal Slipyj at the the Ukrainian people, future, he wasn’t even Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of the [they] place my coffin thinking that he would Immaculate Conception, Philadelphia, PA in 1968 (Photo: Meva)

have to experience so every one of us, was not many difficult times and a straight path, but rather trials. But, as we know a labyrinth, in which from his memoirs, he every choice is important. always asked himself this Because at every turn, it question: “What does is possible to make an Lord expect from me?” error, choosing not that And he often pondered particular path. In order on the question: “What not to be lost on this will history say about me path, we need an inner one day, with which I will compass that will suggest stand before the Lord at the correct path for us. the awesome tribunal of The Servant of God Christ?” It is understood Josyf did not search for that Josyf Slipyj became guides in transient ideas a great person not at any or false hopes. In his one moment. From day pastoral letter “On the to day he grew in prayer, Unity in Christ” (June 3, holiness, wisdom, in the 1976) he addressed his sense of responsibility, flock using direct advice: and most of all – in “We must be ourselves!” fidelity to God’s will. This “being ourselves”

Ribbon His life, as the life of (continued on next page) MARCH 05, 2017 22 “WE MUST BE OURSELVES!” (continued from previous page) is being born in every community, of which woe to the person who truly knowing our very one of us in the moment he was the head, to ceases to be himself selves through His Cross when in our prayer to patriarchal dignity. Only or herself, who loses and Resurrection. The our heavenly Father we this position gave him himself or herself. The life and fate of Patriarch recognize His will with the opportunity not to life of Patriarch Josyf, the Josyf persuade us that, reference to our life. And be dependent from the raising-up of our Church with deep faith and every stage in Patriarch stunning changes around from the catacombs God’s help, a person of Josyf’s biography is him and to worthily move and her further dynamic unbreakable will, who marked with this sign of through all these turning development bear does not renounce his authenticity, at the center points of history. witness that only the one or her Godgiven being, of which Christ abides. overcomes the volatility who does not give up Today, when we often and the fluidity of history, on his or her calling He was himself, when he hear that we live “in who invariably remains in and who exercises his revealed in himself the fluid times” or even “in his or her core the same or her ministry, will attraction to learning and the post-truth era”, when as the Lord created him overcome, whatever the devoted his entire life everything around is or her. This path, even circumstances, in a duel to it, not so by his own forever changing, nothing though difficult and full with evil and falsehood. academic work, but by is firm and hopeful, truth of thorns, is possible, The blessing of the creating the conditions does not exist, there are and it brings a person Lord be upon you with and institutions for only “points of view”, that great inner satisfaction His grace and love for others. He was himself, one is right whoever has and joy because he or mankind, always, now when he felt his calling power and money, and she exercises his or her and for ever and ever. to the priesthood and that one can become Christian duty and does devoted his whole self popular by means of God’s will, and only + SVIATOSLAV to this calling, in spite cheap slogans and in this way can he be Given in Kyiv at the of the restrictions and promises, -- Patriarch himself or can she be Patriarchal Cathedral the bans to exercise his Josyf’s invitation to herself. of the Resurrection of ministry. He was himself, authenticity, to “be Christ, on the Feast of when he rejected the yourself”, is once again Therefore, in this Jubilee the Encounter of Our promised freedom and extremely important. Year of our Patriarch Lord Jesus Christ, 15 high positions if he were Josyf, we encourage all February 2017 A.D. to renounce his Church. To be ourselves to think about who we He was himself, when was never easy; it is are and what our task is he, having found himself even more difficult to on this earthly pilgrimage in the West, became exercise our calling in to eternity, in our journey http://archeparchy.ca/ the voice and symbol the uncertain times we today “through hardships news_details.php?news_ of the “silent Church” are now experiencing. to the stars”. And may id=450 in the USSR and all At first glance, it is the Lord Jesus Christ the persecuted by the much easier and more Himself, Who alone is godless, totalitarian comfortable to adapt to the Way, the Truth and government. He was change, to fit ourselves the Life, be for us that himself, when he to external conditions, leading star that will continued to defend to refuse to recognize allow us to overcome all the right of the religious absolute Truth… But, obstacles on this path of MARCH 05, 2017 23 In the jubilee year of Patriarch Josef Head of UGCC recommends to think about “who we are and what is our role”

Thursday, 16 February birthday anniversary of West he became a voice God created them – can 2017 Patriarch Josef Slipyj, and symbol of a “silent overcome inconstancy confessor of the faith and Church” in USRR and all and history fluctuation”. Life of Patriarch Josef, as long-standing head of persecuted by godless well as our owns, wasn’t UGCC. totalitarian regime. He The letter ends with a a straight way but rather was himself when he was suggestion of the Head of a labyrinth, where each Head of Church consumes defending the right of a the Church to think in this decision is important. that Patriarch Josef religious community he jubilee year of Patriarch Since with every single became a huge man not headed”. Josef about whom we are turn one might mislead, in one second: “Day by and what is our role. “Life choosing the wrong way. day he was growing in The author of a Letter says of Patriarch Josef reckons prayer, sanity, wisdom, that it has never been us that with a deep belief Josef, the servant of God, sense of responsibility, easy to be yourself, and and God’s assistance a didn’t look for a guideline and above all, - in more difficult than that is person with a steady will, in passing ideas or vain devotedness to God’s to perform your vocation who does not refuse his expectations. In his letter will”. in times of uncertainty we or her nature given once “About an alliance with are going through now. by God, doesn’t betray God” (June 3, 1976) he His Beatitude Sviatoslav “It’s much easier and his or her vocation and addressed to his parish explains what words more comfortable to get performs one’s service with an advice: “Let us “be yourself” meant to used to changes, to fit despite everything – will be ourselves!” This “being Patriarch Josef: “It was he to outer circumstances, triumph (win) over evil and ourselves” is born in all of himself when he revealed refuse acknowledging injustice”, His Beatitude us every time we recognize desire to science and the absolute Truth… But Sviatoslav wriote. in a prayer to the Lord His devoted his whole life to it, woe to the person who will regarding our lives. establishing conveniences quits being themselves, The UGCC Department and institutions for who loses themselves”, he for Information This is stated In a letter of others. It was he himself, adds. His Beatitude Sviatoslav when hearing a call to http://news.ugcc.ua/ to the faithful of UGCC priesthood he devoted Thus, life of Patriarch en/news/in_the_jubilee_ on occasion of 125th himself totally to it. He was Josef, resurrection from year_of_patriarch_ birthday anniversary of himself when he refused catacombs of UGCC josef_head_of_ugcc_ patriarch Josef Slipyj. As a promised freedom and its further dynamic recommends_to_think_ is generally known, on and high ranks if only he development affirms that about_who_we_are_and_ 17th of February 2017 denied his Church. It was “the one who in their what_is_our_role_78732. we celebrate the 125th he himself when coming to own core remains as html

The Head of the UGCC together with Bishops was praying on the birthday of Patriarch Josyp Slipyj in his family house in Zazdrist'

Saturday, 18 February a great teacher and a great man, leader and its only voice. We want 2017 sanctifier of our Church teacher of our Church to bow down to this holy - Patriarch Josyp Slipyj and our people, for the Podillia land and this Today we all together came to this world. In this gift of the ethnarch, father faithful people who gave have arrived at the place, solemn Liturgy we want to of the nation, who at the where 125 years ago thank for the gift of such times of persecutions was (continued on next page) MARCH 05, 2017 24 The Head of the UGCC together with Bishops was praying on the birthday of Patriarch Josyp Slipyj in his family house in Zazdrist' (continued from previous page) birth and passed on the in Paris for the Ukrainians and mocked for this," was uncompromising. He faith to this great man. of Byzantine rite in France, emphasized the Bishop. was always working on countries of Benelux and According to his words, himself for his Church," With such words the Switzerland. Patriarch Josyp was noted the preacher. The Head and Father his always looking for truth. Bishop underlined that the Beatitude Sviatoslav The Head of the Church Still when a young man, Patriarch brought up the began his homily at also invited to say the he wanted to become a ideal of patriarchate for the Hierarchical Divine preaching word "a priest and scholar, and the UGCC, and founded Liturgy on the occasion special person, on whose when he was already what was a dream of of 125th-anniversary head lay the sanctifying educating students, he Metropolitan Andrey of the Patriarch Josyp hands of Patriarch Josyp": was teaching them that Sheptytsky - UCU in Slipyj in the chapel of "This man, being a young science is possible only Rome. "In all spheres he the museum-memorial American, entered the after prayer. "This relates was a father, a teacher, complex "Native Home" community of monks- to all of us because we a leader, an ethnarch. He in Zazdrist' in Ternopil studites in Rome, which all have to study, improve sustained himself in truth oblast. Patriarch Josyp re-created in what we are doing despite all the hardships because he realized that because this is what the and problems. By this In the Liturgy also without a true eastern Patriarch was doing, who Liturgy and this Jubilee participated: Archbishop monastics there cannot studied both in Austria Year we try to glorify our Ihor, Metropolitan of Lviv, be firm Church roots. This and in Rome", - went Lord, Who gave us such a Archbishop Volodymyr, is a man who worked on Bishop Hlib. - "He great man. We are happy Metropolitan of Ivano- together with Patriarch, believed that one has to that we are close to this Frankivsk, Archbishop in particular, in the last travel around the world to unique personality, who Vasyl, Metropolitan of period of his life, as a learn new things, because is given by God once per Ternopil-Zboriv, Bishop spiritual director at the travels educate, open new several hundred years. By Venedyct, auxiliary Bishop Collegium of St. Sophia in horizons." That is why the the example of Patriarch of Lviv's archeparchy, Rome. He was appointed motto of the university Josyp let us take closer Bishop Volodymyr, by the Synod of Bishops of which he founded in to heart the words of St. auxiliary Bishop of Lviv's the UGCC as the person Rome, UCU, was - "Verity John the Revelator: "Learn archeparchy, Bishop in charge of this Jubilee and love for knowledge the truth, live in it and Theodore, auxiliary Year, devoted to 125th- gather those who are persevere in it," ended Bishop of Ternopil-Zboriv anniversary of Patriarch scattered". This inscription Bishop Hlib. archeparchy, Bishop Josyp. This is Bishop Hlib, even today is seen on the Bohdan, administrator of who is the father for our building of the UCU in The UGCC Department Patriarchal Curia, Bishop people in Great Britain Rome. "Patriarch Josyp of Information Josaphat, exarch of Lutsk, and Ireland." was not only looking for Bishop Vasyl, eparch of truth, he lived by it. From http://news.ugcc.ua/ Kolomyya -Chernivtsi, Explaining the chapter the evidence it's known en/news/the_head_of_ Bishop Dmytro, eparch from the Gospel, Bishop that he was a very strict the_ugcc_together_with_ of Buchach eparchy, Hlib pointed out that only man. When we heard bishops_was_praying_ Bishop Mykhailo, exarch when we are looking for his steps in the corridor, on_the_birthday_of_ of Odesa, Bishop Hlib, God, we can discern we were very careful. patriarch_josyph_slipyj_ eparch of the eparchy the truth . "We must live Why was he strict? It in_his_family_house_in_ of the Most Holy Family according to the Truth was not some malice or zazdrist_78798.html in Great Britain, Bishop which is God. We also anger, but because he Borys, eparch of the must fight against every was always searching eparchy of St. Volodymyr lie. We can be persecuted for truth, lived by it, he MARCH 05, 2017 25 Pope: Lent is a time to start breathing again March 1, 2017 no one; “we all want charity, and strangles us.” It is a time, too, the to return to the merciful every hope” Pope said, to ask where (Vatican Radio) heart of the Father.” we would be without so Continuing a long- Pope Francis said Lent many people who have standing tradition, Pope Lent, the Pope said, is a is a time for saying helped us along our Francis celebrated the path that “leads to the no: no to “spiritual journey. Holy Mass for Ash triumph of mercy over all asphyxia” caused by Wednesday at the that would crush us or indifference; no to “the And so, Pope Francis Basilica of Santa Sabina reduce us to something toxic pollution of empty concluded, “Lent is a on the Aventine hill in unworthy of our dignity and meaningless words”; time to start breathing Rome. as God’s children.” The no to “a prayer that again… the time to open mark of ashes, received soothes our conscience, our hearts to the breath The Holy Father began his during the ceremony, an almsgiving that of the One capable homily for the beginning reminds us of our origins, leaves us self-satisfied, a of turning our dust to of Lent with the words that we are dust – but, fasting that makes us feel humanity.” of the prophet Joel, he said, it also reminds good”, no to all forms of from the first Reading: us that God breathed exclusion.” http://en.radiovaticana. “Return to me with all life into each of us. “The But Lent is also a time for va/news/2017/03/01/ your heart… Return to breath of God’s life,” he remembering, a time “to pope_lent_is_a_time_ the Lord.” These words, said, “saves us from this reflect and ask ourselves to_start_breathing_ the Pope said, apply to asphyxia that dampens what we would be if God again/1295842 everyone, and exclude our faith, cools our had closed His doors to His Beatitude Sviatoslav for the beginning of Lent: the greatest defeat of Ukrainians will be hatred of our enemies

28 February 2017

When we start fasting, let us not make sad faces, because it is a spiritual spring when the life which the Lord God gave us at the time of baptism begins to revive.

The Patriarch of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church was reported as saying this on February 26th, the Sunday of Forgiveness, in St. Catherine’s (Ontario, Canada) His Beatitude Sviatoslav in Saints Cyril and Methodius in (continued on next page) Ontario, Canada MARCH 05, 2017 26 His Beatitude Sviatoslav for the beginning of Lent: the greatest defeat of Ukrainians will be hatred of our enemies (continued from previous page) during a pastoral visit freedom can hardly hear breeds criminals. Heroes conscience makes them to the Ukrainian Greek- about forgiveness today. are born by love – the experience in a Christian Catholic community love for one’s homeland, way even the tragedy of of the parish of Saints “I was asked lots of one’s native land, war,” said the preacher. Cyril and Methodius, times, how to forgive our one’s people,” said the Patriarch Sviatoslav according to the enemies who daily kill patriarch. called everyone to ask Information Department us, taking our freedom? the Lord God during of the UGCC. How to forgive in war? The hierarch stressed Lent for forgiveness for This is a difficult question. that Ukrainian soldiers, us and our enemies. “Lent is a time of But my answer is: the with whom he spoke, are spiritual renewal. But greatest failure, the very concerned that they https://risu.org.ua/en/ the most important tool biggest defeat of the had to stop the enemy index/all_news/state/ to start this movement is Ukrainian people will be the price of his blood. national_religious_ forgiveness,” he said. when we start hating our question/66205 enemy. Then the enemy “They have remorse According to the will have defeated us for having had to kill Patriarch, the Ukrainian in our hearts, because an assailant, but in people, who struggle hatred does not give none of them did I see on the frontline for their birth to heroes. Hatred hatred in their eyes. Their

After visit to Avdiyivka, UGCC bishop tells about the daunting daily life of frontline residents

1 March 2017 damaged households, food provision and Recently, Bishop Stepan health care. Meniok, Donetsk Exarch of the UGCC, with the The Bishop visited blessing of His Beatitude Mariyinka where he Sviatoslav, head of the talked to the pupils of UGCC, visited Avdiyivka the local Children and with a team of CF Youth Creativity Center. Caritas, where previously Here are some thoughts the households suffered and impressions that severe damages from Bishop Stepan shared shelling in the old part of after this visit. the city. Bishop Stepan Meniok “I had an impression, people are poisoned along an empty street, Accompanied by CIMIC when roaming amidst and die, and only I met the poor and servicemen, they carried these empty destroyed accommodation and homeless animals. A cat out the initial assessment buildings, that it is a things remain. Walking of the needs to restore biological war. When (continued on next page) MARCH 05, 2017 27 After visit to Avdiyivka, UGCC bishop tells about the daunting daily life of frontline residents (continued from previous page) came up to me, who was about the military who the idea that the shell under such pressure. looking for his owners. accommodated in may hit their home. Therefore, it is likely that I was returning with a their homes and the over time they will have lousy mood and burden authorities ... And there One woman, seeing that a shift in their mind. on my heart. is the front-line line, our I belong to holy orders, Everywhere the military military are forced to live said to me: “I would like government operates In Maryiynka I visited in the houses of locals. to die quietly and that is because of mistrust to the local creativity all.” And I told her that, civilians. " center for young people CF "Caritas" continues “Well, okay. What the and children. The its active operation young people should It was reported by the even arranged a small within the city and the do?” press service of the performance for me city authorities are Donetsk Exarchate of the there. supporting them. Anyone, if told to live UGCC. under shelling, would Speaking about the People live under the have felt a change in https://risu.org.ua/ victims, I have heard constant psychological his body; he would hate en/index/all_news/ many complaints. People stress. Imagine they go such a life. Just imagine, community/religion_ came to me to complain to bed every night with people constantly live and_society/66222

Children of Luhansk region receive aid as part of Pope for Ukraine Initiative

28 February 2017 humanitarian Initiative the conditions of access vulnerability, developed “Pope for Ukraine.” to quality health care jointly with local partners. In February, on the This was reported by and support for physical initiative and financial the press service of and mental health of Currently, 1,000 children support of Pope Luhansk Regional State children and parents have been selected aged Francis, the charitable Administration. in Popasna, Stanychno from 0 to 3 years and organization “Luhansk Novoaydarsky and 500 children aged from regional branch of the Under the program, Luhansk regions, where 3 to 7 years. International Charitable employees of psychological support Organization CF “SOS organizations provide and qualified medical At the end of December, Children Village” basic support in the advice is being provided. Donbas received the first launched a program of form of baby food, baby batch of aid from the humanitarian support for care products, seasonal The aid is provided to Pope. vulnerable children below clothing, footwear, neediest beneficiaries. 7 living along the line of newborn kits, medicines The families were https://risu.org.ua/ contact.” The program is and vitamins. There was selected in accordance en/index/all_news/ implemented as part of also an improvement in with certain criteria of catholics/vatikan/66209

MARCH 05, 2017 28 Pope: true fasting is helping others

03/03/2017 ‘hypocritical’ – it’s the of almsgiving… we take a you see them, word that Jesus uses so bribe: the bribe of vanity, (Vatican Radio) True often – a fast that makes the bribe of being seen. and not turning your fasting is helping your you see yourself as just, And that is not authentic, back on your own.’ neighbor; while false or makes you feel just, that is hypocrisy. So fasting mixes religiosity but in the meantime I when Jesus says, ‘When “Let us think on these with dirty deals and the have practiced iniquities, you pray, do it in secret; words, let us think in our bribes of vanity. That was I am not just, I exploit the when you give alms, own hearts, how do we the message of Pope people. don’t sound a trumpet; fast, pray, give alms? And Francis at the morning when you fast do not be it would help us to think Mass at the Casa Santa “‘But,’ [someone might sad,” it is the same as about how we would Marta on Friday. say,] ‘I am generous, I if He had said: ‘Please, feel about a man who, give a good offering to when you do a good after a meal that cost The readings of the day the Church.’ work, don’t take the 200 euros, for example, speak about fasting; that bribe of this good work, returns home and sees is, the Pope explained, “‘But tell me,’ [one might it is only for the Father.’” someone hungry, and “about the penance that answer,] ‘do you pay doesn’t look at him and we are called to do in a just wage to your He quoted the passage keeps walking. It would this time of Lent,” in help? Do you pay your from Isaiah where the do us good to think order to draw closer to employees under the Lord tells the hypocrites about that.” the Lord. God delights in table? Or, as the law about true fasting – the “contrite heart,” the demands, [enough] so words, the Pope said, Psalm says, “the heart that they are able to that seem to be spoken of one who feels himself feed their children?’” to us today: http://en.radiovaticana. a sinner, who knows he va/news/2017/03/03/ is a sinner.” In the first Pope Francis told the “‘This, rather, is the pope_true_fasting_is_ Reading, taken from story of an event that fasting that I wish: helping_others/1296280 the Book of the Prophet happened immediately Isaiah, God rebukes after the Second World releasing those bound the false religiosity of War to Jesuit Father Pedro unjustly, the hypocrites who fast, Arrupe, when he was a while at the same time missionary in Japan. A untying the thongs of the carrying out their own rich businessman gave yoke; pursuits, oppressing their him a donation for his workers, “striking with evangelical activities, Setting free the wicked claw”: on the one but brought with him a oppressed, hand, doing penance, photographer and a while on the other being journalist. The envelope breaking every yoke; unjust, making “dirty contained just ten dollars: deals.” The Lord calls us, Sharing your bread with instead, to a true fast, “This is the same as what the hungry, where we are attentive we do when we do not to our neighbor: pay a just wage to our sheltering the oppressed people. We take from and the homeless; “On the other hand our penances, from our there is a fasting that is acts of prayer, of fasting, Clothing the naked when

MARCH 05, 2017 29 Head of UGCC to Int'l Community: 'Stop war in Ukraine'

Thursday, 23 February Those who are trapped persons. The national Shevchuk said nothing 2017 in the so-called “grey Caritas branch is has changed since zone” on the border of practically alone in trying the change of the The leader of the the occupied territory to assist these people. administration in the Ukrainian Greek- which has been under US, but unfortunately Catholic Church has constant bombardment Shevchuk also comments none of the agreements appealed to the for the past three years: on the recent UNICEF brokered so far have international community almost 200,000 people report and its appeal for had an effect. to take diplomatic action including many elderly over 1 million children and stop the continuing people and families. in need of assistance in “We know there can be violence in Eastern According to UNICEF eastern Ukraine. no military solution to the Ukraine. some 12,000 children live conflict in Ukraine that’s in this area. He said the “The suffering of a why I appeal to the This week a ceasefire Church is present on the million children is the international community between Ukrainian territory and supported suffering of the innocent. to continue to push troops and Russian- by funds raised by This is what led me to forward diplomatic backed separatists came Pope Francis’ call for make an appeal to the efforts for a ceasefire” into effect but the head a collection that goes international community he said. of the Organization towards food, medicine to do everything possible for Security and and other basic needs. to end hostilities” he Major Archbishop Cooperation in Europe said, pointing out that Shevchuk concluded (OCSE) said violations to - Those who are trapped the Church must give a saying Pope Francis is the ceasefire are already in the occupied territory voice to the voiceless. constantly informed on occurring. and who are unable the situation and that the to receive international He said it is really Apostolic Nuncio travels The conflict, which started humanitarian aid. The upsetting to see how often to the area. He in April 2014, has killed only way the Church these children live and said that everyone hopes some 10,000 people manages to reach these how they continue to and prays that perhaps and displaced hundreds people is through local try to go to school in the Pope himself will of thousands from their priests who do their shattered buildings. He be able to accept a homes. 3.8 million people best to travel back and pointed out that 19,000 standing invitation to visit are estimated to be in forth to the Ukrainian children are in constant one day. need of humanitarian area, filling their cars danger of mines and assistance. with basic goods for the other explosive devices http://news.ugcc.ua/ population that is on the in the area. en/articles/major_ Speaking to Vatican brink of hunger. abp_shevchuk_to_intl_ Radio, His Beatitude “Although children are community_stop_war_ Sviatoslav Shevchuk, - Then there are the told not to touch objects in_ukraine_78793.html Major Archbishop of hundreds of thousands they come across, every the Ukrainian Greek- of displaced persons, day a child is injured Catholic Church, said many of whom have because the militants that Europe must not sought refuge in central leave toys that are allow the humanitarian and western Ukraine. loaded with explosives emergency unfolding at Unofficial statistics all over the ground” he its heart to go unnoticed. estimate over 2 million said. internally displaced MARCH 05, 2017 30 “Help stop war in Ukraine, aid children in need.” Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church issued a statement

22 February 2017

The head of the Ukrainian Catholic Church called on the international community to “stop the aggressor” in Ukraine’s “forgotten conflict” and help the 1 million children in need of urgent humanitarian assistance.

“I am appealing to the international community to defend Ukrainian children, victims of war, keeping in mind that in our country we are experiencing a humanitarian emergency in Europe that has not been experienced since the Second World War,” said Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk of Kiev-Halych, Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church.

Despite efforts the past three years, a “stable cease-fire” has never been achieved. “Therefore, we ask international organizations to continue diplomatic approaches to stop the aggressor and end the war so that true peace can be reached,” he said in a written statement received by Catholic News Service February 22th.

The Major-Archbishop made the appeal after UNICEF released report on February 17th saying that 1 million children in Ukraine were in urgent need of humanitarian aid - nearly double the number of kids in need the same time last year.

The increased numbers were due to the ongoing fighting and deteriorating economic situation of families, loss of housing and reduced access to health care and education, the report said. One in five schools in eastern Ukraine have been damaged or destroyed.

“Hundreds of daily cease-fire violations put children’s physical safety and psychological well-being at risk,” the UNICEF report said. Thousands of children face the danger of landmines and unexploded ordinance as well as active shelling in their neighborhoods, it said.

“Teachers, psychologists and parents report signs of severe psychosocial distress among children including nightmares, aggression, social withdrawal and panic triggered by loud noises,” it said.

In his appeal, Shevchuk said the Catholic Church has a moral obligation to speak up for the voiceless, particularly the children.

“The increasingly tragic situation of the nation - there are 1.7 million people displaced - remains invisible in the eyes of the general public,” he said. Such tragedy, he said, “cannot and must not remain invisible.” http://risu.org.ua/en/index/all_news/catholics/ugcc/66162/

MARCH 05, 2017 31 UGCC clergy invites Pope Francis to Zarvanytsya - Ukrainian Marian pilgrimage site

27 February 2017

On February 26th, Pope Francis received the delegates of Ternopil- Zboriv Archdiocese of the UGCC, Fr Volodymyr Firman, Rector of the Marian Spiritual Center ‘Zarvanytsya’ and Fr. Roman Dutchak, the judicial vicar of Ternopil- Zboriv Archdiocese.

On behalf of Archbishop and Metropolitan Basil (Semenyuk) of Ternopil- Zboriv, the clergymen “We also convey sincere an icon of Our Savior, of the Holy See to the thanked the pontiff for congratulations and which was recently Ukrainian people in the miraculous icon deep appreciation of written by Mykola their difficult time and of Christ, who for 11 Metropolitan Vasyl and Shevchuk at the Second became an important days remained in the invited the Holy Father All-Ukrainian plein air of spiritual intermediary region and caused great to visit Zarvanytsya, iconography and sacred for unification of the excitement and spiritual which is among the 20 art “Window to the Sky. faithful in prayer for exaltation: largest Marian centers in Zarvanytsya-2017.” Ukraine, according to Europe.” the website of Ternopil- It was with joy that His As reported, these days Zboriv archdiocese of Holiness learned the news The clergymen also the icon was returned the UGCC. that about 400 thousand expressed their gratitude to personal sacristy of faithful came to honor the to the Pope for prayers the Pope in the Vatican. https://risu.org.ua/ holy relics dating back to and support for the The arrival of the relics en/index/all_news/ the times of Jesus,” Fr. Ukrainian people in these in Ukraine became a catholics/vatikan/66200 Volodymyr Firman said. difficult times and gave symbolic act of support

Archeparchy’s 2016 Participation in National Collection of the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops

Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe $9,375.00 Catholic Home Mission Appeal $9,564.00 Peter’s Pence Collection $14,252.00

God richly bless those who shared with others for pastoral outreach and humanitarian efforts!

MARCH 05, 2017 32 Відділ в Філядельфії Philadelphia Chapter “MARTYRDOM REDEFINED”

Speakers

• Andrij V. R . Szul, • Very Rev. Ivan Ph.D., J.D. Kaszczak, Ph.D.

• Most Rev. Basil H. • Sister Ann Laszok, Losten, Bishop OSBM, M.A. Emeritus, D.D., LLD (Hon.) • Alexander Lushnycky, Ph.D.

SYMPOSIUM ON THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY of the passing of BISHOP STEPHEN SOTER ORTYNSKY, OSBM

FIRST BISHOP OF UKRAINIAN CATHOLICS IN THE U.S. (1907-16) Saturday, April 1, 2017 2:00 - 5:00 pm Registration - 1:30 - 2:00 pm

Manor College Basileiad Library 700 Fox Chase Road, Jenkintown, PA 19046

MARCH 05, 2017 33 Pope's prayer intention for March: Support for Persecuted Christians

March 2, 2017

(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis’ prayer intention for March is Support for Persecuted Christians: That persecuted Christians may be supported by the prayers and material help of the whole Church. http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2017/03/02/popes_prayer_intention_for_march_support_for_ persecuted/1296026

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