Your Diocese Alive in Christ The Magazine of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, Orthodox Church in America Volume XXII, No. 3 Winter, 2005 St. Stephen’s OCF, Chapter 82 - Philadelphia, PA of the Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America (FOCA)

cordially invites you to attend their gala 69th Annual Novogodny (New Year) Ball

Sunday, January 15, 2006

Radisson Hotel Philadelphia Northeast Trevose, Pa.

A Semi-formal for the Benefi t of Deserving Charities

For information & required reservations contact Paul Fedoronko at (610) 328-6911 or email: [email protected]

Twelfth Annual ST. TIKHON’S CENTURY ASSOCIATION Winter Festival Dinner -- Music -- Dancing

Sunday, February 19, 2006 ST. MARY’S CENTER 320 Miffl in Avenue Scranton, Pennsylvani

3:00 PM -- HORS D’OEUVRES & CASH BAR 4:00 PM -- DINNER & DANCING

**MUSIC BY JOHN STEVENS AND DOUBLESHOT**

ENTRÉE CHOICE: CHICKEN KIEV OR HERB CRUSTED HADDOCK CHILDREN’S ENTRÉE: CHICKEN FINGERS & FRIES

ADULTS $35.00 & CHILDREN (Under 10) $10.00

**RESERVATIONS SHOULD BE MADE BY FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2006

Please send check payable to St. Tikhon’s Century Association to:

ST. TIKHON’S CENTURY ASSOCIATION c/o MARY SERNAK 700 DELAWARE STREET MAYFIELD, PA 18433

Join us for an evening of food, fun & fellowship —All proceeds benefi t St. Tikhon’s Seminary— Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

To the Venerable Pastors, God-loving Monastics and Devout Children of our Diocesan Family:

I greet you warmly with the joy of this festal season in which the light of Christ is revealed to the world.

This divine light comes to us especially through the feasts of the Nativity and the Theophany of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, which are celebrated during this time of the year when the days are short and the earth is at its darkest. This physical darkness is a reminder to us of the spiritual darkness of sin, corruption and death that reigned at the time of the Incarnation. The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up (Matthew 4:16). This light was the birth and manifestation of the Lord incarnate, a light that pierced through the darkness and revealed to all the depths of God’s love for mankind.

Although the world around us may still lie in darkness, the gift of God’s love shines upon us as well, for in the Incarnation we are offered, not just the birth of a human child, but the perfect union of divinity and humanity: “Heaven and earth are united today, for Christ is born. Today has God come upon earth, and man gone up to heaven.” (Litya for the Feast of the Nativity). In becoming man, Christ offers to all of us the possibility of becoming, by grace, what He is by Nature, of overcoming our human passions and of ascending from earth to Heaven.

Let us offer our fervent prayer that Christ will enlighten the darkness in the world and within our own hearts with the light of His Incarnation. Let us fi nd comfort and joy knowing that by His Nativity in the fl esh, Christ “has shone upon the world with the light of understanding” and by His Baptism in the Jordan, He has “appeared and enlightened the world” and made manifest the worship of the Trinity.

May the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ, the true Light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world, be with you and your loved ones now and always. Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

With love in Christ,

+ TIKHON Bishop of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania

1 Your Diocese Alive in Christ

Volume XXI Number 3 Winter 2005 Bishop Tikhon’s Installation - see page 3 The O; cial Magazine of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania Orthodox Church in America

In This Issue Christmas Message 1 Bishop TIKHON Installed 3 What is a Bishop? 6 Diocese Remembers Archbishop KIPRIAN 10 Making Our Parishes Grow - page 43 From Pennsylvania to Transylvania 13 42nd Diocesan Assembly in Bethlehem 16 Sermon for the Nativity of Christ by St. Philaret 20 The Founding of St. Tikhon’s Monastery - Part V 23 We Believe: Symbol of the Faith - Part VII 30 OCEC Presents Christian Education Workshop 32 Origen: the Denier of Human Freedom - Part II 34 Your Diocese Alive in Christ Produced by the Publications Department of Holy Trinity Church Welcomes Missionaries 42 the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, Orthodox How to Make Our Parishes Grow 43 Church in America (Diocesan Center, South Canaan, Pennsylvania 18459 (570-937-9040), under Why Do We Light Vigil Lamps Before Icons? St. Nicholai 52 the direction of His Grace, Bishop TIKHON. Editor ...... Fr. John Kowalczyk St. Cyril’s Commentary on John’s Gospel - Part XXI 53 Photography ...... Martin Paluch Sta9 ...... Fr. David Maha9 ey Archpriest Joseph Martin Celebrates Anniversary 63 Circulation ...... Fr. Leo Poore

Editorial and Subscription O; ce: Alive in Christ, Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, Box 130, South Canaan, Pennsylvania 18459 Phone Departments (res.): 570-876-1241. All in the Diocesan Family 72 Alive in Christ is distributed free of charge Christmas Listings 65 within the Diocese. Those living in other areas may subscribe for $12 per year. Daily Devotions 41 Deadline for the next issue of Your Diocese Education Bulletin 40 Alive in Christ is March 15, 2006. Please submit all articles (typed) pictures, parish news, etc., O; cial 29 on disc to Alive in Christ, Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, Box 130, South Canaan, PA 18459, or e-mail to [email protected].

2 iocesan and visiting clergy and hundreds of faithful through- Dout the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania gathered at St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Philadelphia on Saturday Oct. 29th for the installation of its third diocesan hierarch, His Grace, the Right Reverend Tikhon. The hierarchical Divine Liturgy and installation was presided over by His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, Archbishop of Washington and New York, Metropolitan of all America and Canada. Concelebrating with His Beatitude were His Grace, Bishop Seraphim of Ottawa; Protopresbyter Robert Kondratick, Chancellor of the Orthodox Church in America; Archpriest John Kowalczyk, Chancellor of the Diocese of Eastern Pa.; Archpriest Michael Dahulich, Dean of St. Tikhon’s Seminary; and the deans of the diocese, Archpriests Daniel Ressetar, Bishop TIKHON Vladimir Fetcho, John Udics, and Joseph Martin, along with Archpriest Dimitri Oselinsky and the newly assigned cathe- Installed in dral dean of St. Stephen’s, Priest Victor Gorodenchuk. Singing the responses during the liturgy was the St. Tikhon’s See of Seminary choir. Also present at the in- stallation liturgy were His Eminence, Cardinal Justin Rigali, of Philadelphia, Philadelphia and Bishop Tikhon’s parents, the Rev. Elizabeth Mollard and Francis Mollard. and Eastern Pennsylvania

The liturgy concluded with the in- stallation rite. Protopresbyter Robert Kondratick, OCA Chancellor, read the proclamation of installation issued by the Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church in America. Bishop Tikhon was formally elected by the Synod as the Bishop of Philadelphia at its session on May 27, 2005. Metropolitan Herman then prayed for Bishop Tikhon and presented him Continued on the next page 3 Bishop TIKHON Installed Continued from page 3 with the archpastoral staff, signifying his episcopal position and authority. Bishop Tikhon then ascended the cathedra and gave his blessing to the faithful. The Very. Rev. Michael Dahulich of- fered the homily at the liturgy, emphasiz- ing the role and duties of the bishop in the life of the Church. “As a father of a family is the head of the household, so the bishop is the head of his diocese. As a father has important responsibilities to his family, so the bishop does to his fl ock. As the father of a family is a decision-maker, with his authority coming from God, so it is with the bishop. And, as the father is due honor, respect, and obedience, like- wise the bishop.” Our metropolitan, after presenting the archpastoral staff to Bishop Tikhon, of- fered him words of support and encour- agement, not only as a brother bishop but also as his spiritual father. He stated: “Dear Brother and Concelebrant, the Diocese that has been placed in your care is rich in history — rich in the history of this nation and rich in the history of Orthodoxy in North America. Therefore, I exhort you to know and value this his- tory and those who are its heirs. Know the people the Lord has placed in your care. Know their struggles and their sufferings. Comfort them with the Gospel that you are to proclaim in truth and in love so that together you may ‘grow up in every way into Him who is the head, Jesus Christ’ “ (Ephesians 4:15). Following the liturgy, a grand banquet was held at the nearby Philmont Country Club. Numerous liturgical gifts were pre- sented to His Grace to help him in his liturgical ministry. In his address to the assembly, Bishop Tikhon stated that the diocese has been under the loving care of His Beatitude Metropolitan Herman for over twenty years, and that he hopes that, through the prayers of all the faithful, he can continue the work of His Beatitude. Bishop Tikhon was born in Boston on July 15, 1966. After brief periods liv- ing in Connecticut, France, and Missouri, he and his family settled in Reading, Pa., where he graduated from Wyomissing High School in 1984. In 1988, he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in French and

44 Fr. Michael Dahulich delivers homily

Sociology from Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pa., after which he moved to Chicago. In 1989, he was received into the Orthodox Church from the Episcopal church and, in the fall of that same year, he began studies at St. Tikhon’s Seminary. number of courses related to the Old rank of Igumen and, in 2000, to the rank The following year he entered St. Tikhon’s Testament. of Archimandrite. In December 2002, he Monastery as a novice. Archimandrite Tikhon collaborated was appointed by Metropolitan Herman to After receiving his Master of Divinity with Igumen Alexander (Golitzin) in the serve as the monastery’s Deputy Abbot. degree from St. Tikhon’s Seminary in publication of The Living Witness of the Archimandrite Tikhon was elected to 1993, he was appointed instructor in Old Holy Mountain, published by St. Tikhon’s the episcopacy by members of the Holy Testament at the seminary. He subse- Press, by illustrating this classic book Synod of Bishops at their October 2003 quently served as senior lecturer in Old about Mt. Athos. session. His episcopal consecration took Testament at the seminary and taught In 1995, he was tonsured to the lesser place on February 14, 2004 at St. Tikhon’s master level courses in the Prophets, the schema and given the name Tikhon, in Monastery. Following his consecration, Psalms, and Wisdom Literature. He also honor of St. Tikhon, the Enlightener of he was made Bishop of South Canaan and served as an instructor in the seminary’s North America and Patriarch of Moscow. auxiliary to Metropolitan Herman. extension studies program, offering a Later that year he was elevated to the —Priest Paul Fetsko

5 5 What is a Bishop? Homily given by Archpriest Michael Dahulich at the Installation of His Grace, Bishop TIKHON, October 29, 2005, at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Philadelphia, Pa.

ne day some nineteen hundred administrator. He is counselor, benefactor, His Church, when He commanded them, years ago, the early Christian disciplinarian. He is shepherd and leader “Do this in remembrance of Me.”3 OChurch faced a serious crisis. The and father and friend. But primarily he is Down through the ages, linked to- last of Christ’s Apostles, the youngest of a priest. gether in a great chain that girds the the original twelve, the Beloved Disciple, When God established through Moses globe and reaches back to that fi rst Holy St. John the Theologian fell asleep in the the covenant with His chosen people, He Thursday night, the priesthood offers the Lord. With his passing, the Church real- also established a special priesthood. “You Divine Liturgy as the Eternal High Priest ized there was no longer an authority shall be to Me a kingdom of priests,” He commanded. among them, who had been hand-picked said, “and a holy nation.”2 The awesome presence of God among by Jesus Himself, an eyewitness to His So important was this priesthood that men is thus realized through the bishops many miracles, and fi rsthand hearer of God prescribed in full detail how the of the Church, as He acts in and through His teachings. The crisis was: where now priesthood was to function and exactly them. It is they who are the visible sym- is the authority of the Church? what sacrifi ces were to be offered. And, 3. Luke 22:19. In answer to that question, St. Ignatius through the faithfulness of the Jewish na- of Antioch, writing around 110 A.D., tion to the priesthood and the sacrifi ce of taught that the apostles themselves left us the Old Law, God thus dwelt among His the answer. They had selected successors people. to their authority; they had ordained men When the Son of God became Man, to take their places in the Church. Thus, He fulfi lled and perfected the priesthood St. Ignatius taught: “Obey the Bishop as of the Old Law and made possible a more you would Christ Himself . . . Where the marvelous and more intimate presence of Bishop is, let the people gather; just as God among men. wherever Jesus Christ is, so there is the At the Last Supper, Christ looked fullness of the Church.”1 down the broad boulevard of the centu- Nearly 2,000 years later, we do well to ries to the sacrifi ces of the priesthood of look anew at the sacred offi ce of a bishop, Israel. But our Lord also looked ahead. It of what it means to be a bishop, and of was then and there that He gave to His what it means to have a bishop. apostles the great privilege of feeding His people His very Body and Blood. It The Bishop is Priest was then and there that He perpetuated the priesthood through His apostles and A bishop is a teacher, a legislator, an through their successors, the bishops of Metropolitan Herman greets Cardinal Rigali of Philadelphia 1. Trallians 2:1; Smyrnaeans 8: 2. 2. Exodus 19:6.

66 bols of His saving presence among us. instructor of the unwise, a teacher of the Himself “the Light of The bishop is never more a bishop than young, a lamp to the world.”5 the world.”8 when he is surrounded by his people and To the bishop is entrusted the sacred offers the Eucharist for them and in their duty of preserving the Orthodoxy of The Bishop is name. As shepherd, he feeds his fl ock. Christian doctrine. The charge given the Father His greatest privilege and highest apostles by our Lord was, “Go, therefore honor is to be the “servant of Christ and and make disciples of all nations, baptiz- The spiritual bond the steward of the mysteries of God.”4 He ing them in the Name of the Father and of uniting all members alone ordains new priests, oversees the the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching of a diocese to their bishop is evident not receiving of new members into the faith, them to observe all that I have command- only in the offering of the Eucharist. It and consecrates new churches. And the ed you.”6 He also affi rmed that not one exists not only when the bishop blesses focus of all these mysteries is the holy al- iota -- not a single letter “i” -- would dis- a church, consecrates an altar or a chal- tar at which the bishop presides. appear from the Law until all things were ice, ordains a priest, hears confessions or accomplished according to His holy will. unites someone in marriage. This special The Bishop is Teacher The Divine Liturgy itself calls atten- bond is also greatly apparent in the gov- tion to this duty of the bishop to teach ernment, the order, and the organization If you have ever had the privilege of when it prays for him that he would of a diocese. witnessing the consecration of a bishop, “rightly defi ne the word of Thy truth.” As a father of a family is the head of you will recall the ancient rite, dating Christ was a teacher’s Teacher, the the household, so the bishop is the head of back to the fourth century, in which the Teacher of teachers. The fi rst seminary his diocese. As a father has important re- open book of the Holy Gospels is placed was located on the seashore of Galilee, its sponsibilities to his family, so the bishop over the head of the bishop-elect. Not fi rst classroom was a fi shing boat, and His does to his fl ock. As the father of a fam- only is this a vivid symbol of the presence fi rst students numbered twelve. Our Lord ily is a decision-maker, with his authority and power of the Holy Spirit descending also taught in the marketplace and along coming from God, so it is with the bishop. upon and fi lling the person of the bishop the hillside and in the synagogue. And He And, as the father is due honor, respect -- it is also the sign of his duty to preach taught “as one having authority.”7 and obedience, likewise the bishop. and to teach, for the prayer of his conse- The bishop in modern times has other The great Saint Cyprian of Carthage crating bishops is that he be “a leader of settings for his teachings, but his message expressed this thought in resound- the blind, a light to those in darkness, an is the same as that of the One Who called ing terms when he tells us: “This is the 4. 1 Cor. 4:1. 6. Matthew 28:19-20. Church: the people united to the bishop, 5. From the Service of the Consecration of a Bishop. 7. Matthew 7:29. the fl ock faithful to their shepherd -- the bishop is in the Church, and the Church is in the bishop. If anyone be not with the bishop, he is not in the Church.”9 A

The Bishop is Role Model R R And so today the Church is grateful “ to our Lord that He has given to us the F gift of our bishop -- such as Metropolitan s HERMAN, Bishop SERAPHIM and Bishop TIKHON, who we see before us 1 -- to be our chief priest, our teacher, our spiritual father. The bishop’s responsibil- 1 ity to the Church is a lifelong one; the e diocese is his until the Lord calls him to Heaven. He answers to Christ for it; and I he is blessed by God because of it. So often our society idolizes rock stars 1 and actresses, athletes and politicians; we o make them our “heroes” and our “role models.” But, in reality, their records are R short-lived and their fame is fl eeting. We need to exalt and pattern our lives after 8. John 8:12. 9. Epistle 69:1. Continued on the next page

7 7 Bishop TIKHON Installed his life for his fl ock. He cares for senior citizens in the twilight Continued from page 7 Certainly that His Grace works hard of their years, and the pre-born children the saints who imitated Christ -- and the and loves God above all else, goes with- still in the womb. He prays for us at every bishops and priests who imitate them. out saying. Not only does he head a dio- service as our chief priest; he preserves Today is a very special day in the his- cese, but he also serves as rector of St. our Orthodox Tradition by his teaching of tory of this diocese. Today, His Grace, Tikhon’s Seminary and deputy abbot the faith, and he loves us as only a father Bishop TIKHON, is being installed as the of St. Tikhon’s Monastery. From 4 a.m. can. third Orthodox Bishop of Philadelphia and when he rises to go to matins, until some- We thank God today for the gift of our Eastern Pennsylvania -- by His Beatitude, times into the wee hours of the night, he bishops that He has given to His Church. the Most Blessed HERMAN, Primate of lives and works and breathes the Church. We recall the words of St. Paul, “Honor the Orthodox Church in America, who He cares for the faithful of his diocese, your prelates and obey them; for they served as this diocese’s second ruling hi- the students of the seminary, and the mo- watch out for your souls.”11 And we pray erarch for nearly a quarter of a century. Today His Grace, Bishop TIKHON is be- ing given to the Church in this place and this time -- to lead it into the heavenly kingdom. His life, his love for Christ and his service to God’s people makes him an outstanding hero and role model for us. My grandmother used to say that God wants us to be like the saint after whom we were named. Her simple faith was an echo of what St. Paul teaches, “Be imita- tors of Me, as I am of Christ.”10 When I think of Saint Tikhon of Moscow, I recall when he was elected patriarch, it was an- Bouquet presented to Stephanie Ristvey of St. nounced that the Holy Spirit had not cho- Stephen’s Cathedral sen the most brilliant scholar or the most Bouquet presented to Mary Sernak, banquet powerful churchman, but the most loving chairman especially on this day, the day of his en- father. I remember reading the words His thronement, for our own Bishop TIKHON, Holiness spoke, “From now on, my duty nastics of the brotherhood -- his entire life that God will continue to bless him with shall be to take care of all the churches of is in the service of God’s people. good health and strength to be our chief Russia and to die for their sake every day. He is known and loved from this cathe- priest, our teacher, our father, our role May He Who has called upon me grant dral to South Canaan and in every corner model . . . for many, many blessed years! me His divine help and His all-powerful of this diocese. He is friend to hierarchs Eis polla eti, Despota! blessings.” I know that Bishop TIKHON with whom he serves and little children will imitate his patron in this way -- as a whom he has helped. He can converse Fr. Michael is the dean of St. Tikhon’s loving father, who will give every day of with theologians in the classroom and Orthodox Theological Seminary 10. I Cor. 11:1. “talk turkey” with kids at summer camp. 11. Hebrews 13:7.

Presentation of Gifts to Bishop Tikhon

8 Presentation of Gifts to Bishop Tikhon

9 Diocese Remembers Archbishop KIPRIAN Twenty-Five Years After His Repose

Editor’s note: December 14, 2005 is one digs. With this in mind, let us begin the 25th anniversary of the repose of with those external things which imme- His Eminence, Archbishop Kiprian diately struck the eyes of his acquain- (Borisewich). He was the fi rst bishop of tances. our diocese and a beloved rector of St. Archbishop Kiprian was, fi rst of all, Tikhon’s Seminary and deputy abbot of the reformer of the seminary and the St. Tikhon’s Monastery. In memory of monastery, renewing the whole complex. Archbishop Kiprian and his service to When he had arrived at St. Tikhon’s, the our Church, we reprint this loving tribute physical plant was small and inadequate. written by Archpriest George Dimopoulis The classrooms were small, without ad- after the repose of his spiritual father, equate ventilation and lighting, almost Archbiship Kiprian: unusable for didactic purposes. His Eminence decided to expand the building, t was the end of November, 1965 when adding more classrooms, a library, a cha- the telephone rang. On the line was pel and other facilities. Today the build- IArchbishop Kiprian of Philadelphia, ing compares favorably with any other calling from St. Tikhon’s Seminary. I had modern educational facility, with large only just arrived in Scranton fi ve days ear- classrooms, an unsurpassed view and all lier and, being a newcomer, I had not yet the necessary educational tools. been oriented to the area. His Eminence In these endeavors, Archbishop invited me to visit the seminary where he Kiprian was ably assisted by his right arm, had a serious subject to discuss with me. Since that day, fi fteen years of in- then Father Joseph Swaiko, later Father Two days later I arrived at St. Tikhon’s timate cooperation with Archbishop Herman, and now — “axios” (worthy) — at lunchtime. The seminary dining room Kiprian have passed. He became my spir- the successor to His Eminence. Because was fi lled with students and at the head itual father, a source of inspiration for me, of the Archbishop’s initial problems with table sat the archbishop fl anked by a few a prototype of what an Orthodox bishop the English language, without the assis- professors. should be and an example for every one tance of Father Joseph the complexities I was impressed by the beautiful sing- of us. Indeed, as I write these lines, I feel of the construction would have been dif- ing of the Lord’s Prayer. A student read a warm inner satisfaction for having re- fi cult to understand. In those days, Father aloud during the meal while the others ceived the privilege and honor of writing Joseph was often forced to limit his sleep listened. At the conclusion His Eminence a few words to his memory. to only a few hours. introduced me to the student body with Whatever is written here is the truth as So too, the monastery church also un- most colorful words, even though he had I have viewed it after nearly sixteen years derwent extensive renovation, as the mag- never met me before. Even to this day, af- of cooperation and struggle for the glory nifi cence of the iconography inside testi- ter sixteen years, I cannot explain how he of Christ and His Church on earth. fi es to. Archbishop Kiprian spent many forsaw the future. With trembling voice, To understand Archbishop Kiprian af- hours with the iconographer, often being being totally unprepared, I tried to re- ter having had only one or two conversa- engaged in long discussions, the contents spond to his fi ne words of introduction. tions would have been impossible. This is of which remain unknown to me as they Following the meal, we went to his because he was a man of depth, and such were conducted in the Russian language. residence and continued our discussion. people fi nd it diffi cult to disclose them- Other renovations on the grounds, such To my surprise he proposed to hire me as selves and reveal their innermost selves. as paving roads, gardens, and so on, were Professor of New Testament, inasmuch as Only shallow people are able to expose also under his supervision. In the last year the professor who had been teaching the their whole being to sight with one or two of his life, more construction was done course had suffered a stroke and died a conversations. Archbishop Kiprian was, as shrines were erected on the monastery few days later. At fi rst I objected due to as it were, a veritable gold mine in which, grounds, and the bell tower refurbished my lack of adequate English, but fi nally I to fi nd gold, one has to dig deeper and and also a new chapel constructed at the accepted with fear and hesitation. deeper, discovering more gold the deeper monastery well. The large pilgrim shrine

10 of the Blessed Virgin Mary, done in mo- cal order in the holy worship. He never course, I considered this to be an insult, saic in Byzantine and Russian style, will tired of the long hours of services, but did but nonetheless, I accepted his decision. always stand at the entrance to America’s feel uncomfortable and tired when the That same evening I received a telephone fi rst Orthodox monastery as a monument serving priest or deacon seemed to ignore call from the archbishop asking for my to Orthodoxy in this land. or forget the precise order of the service. forgiveness. “Forgive me, Father George, Archbishop Kiprian became beloved Whether at the hours, standing in the mid- but I had to do that according to my con- of us, especially because he possessed dle of the Church or later at his throne, science.” He had learned why I was late, many virtues which should be those of he testifi ed to what St. Ignatius of Antioch but he wanted to observe the order of the all the clergy. First of all, he was a man says, “Wherever the bishop appears, there Church. The Holy Communion was not a of prayer. Personally, I object when we let the people be, just as wherever Jesus dish of ice cream to come and take and want to organize seminars and meetings Christ is, there is the Catholic Church,” then leave! Yet, his paternal heart would to lecture on prayer. For prayer is not and as St. Cyprian of Carthage said, “The not let him be angry with a priest. How something that is lectured on but is lived. bishop is in the Church, and the Church is many times I remember him raising his Never did I hear Archbishop Kiprian talk in the bishop.” voice at the faculty meetings, yet at the or preach to us about prayer. No matter As noted, Archbishop Kiprian loved time for departure it always was with pa- how eloquent a mother may be in trying the ecclesiastical order — the canons of ternal love. to teach her child about prayer, all will the Church. No matter who was serv- Archbishop Kiprian was also, in him- be to no avail and the child will never ing, if the canonical order was violated, self, a portable theological school. He understand her unless he sees her kneel he would become angry, for he would was a possessor of Orthodox theology and pour out tears in prayer. Archbishop make no compromises. Yet he never vio- as had been deposited by the Fathers of Kiprian did not lecture us about prayer, lated the rules of love. He knew well the the Church. He was a possessor of many but taught us by his example. words of the Psalmist, “Be angry, but sin Slavic languages and knew the Russian In his fi rst years at the seminary he not; commune with your own hearts on theologians, whom he mentioned with was present for both morning and evening your beds, and be silent” (Psa. 4:4). St. deep respect. But, above all, he knew prayers. Once, when we were at Holy John Chrysostom explains the words of the holy Scriptures, both Old and New Cross Seminary in Brookline, Mass., for the Psalmist in the following manner, Testaments. Always in his private and a theological symposium, the following “He does not abolish, of course, the anger public discussions he would supplement incident was observed. It was getting late because it is very useful. Neither does he his conversation with a Scripture verse. and the archbishop had gone to his room. uproot wrath because it is very benefi cial His sermons, despite his diffi culties with The venetian blinds were not fully closed when applied against those who are un- the English language, would draw heavily and it was possible to see inside the room. righteous and against those who are idlers. on Bible verses which would be concrete- A few of us priests were standing outside But he condemns unrighteous anger and ly connected with the intended subject. discussing the endless problems which irrational wrath. St. Paul, adds the Father, The good students — those with percep- we have, when we noticed the archbishop became angry against Elymas (Acts 13:6- tion and depth — were amazed with his standing up with his prayerbook, looking 12) and Peter against Sapphira (Acts 5:1- knowledge of Scripture, especially with like a biblical fi gure, praying for a very 11) and the father becomes angry with his the events of the Old Testament and his long time. We were amazed at what we child, but is motivated by love for it. memory for the smallest details. had witnessed. He never spoke theoreti- Archbishop Kiprian was a father and Archbishop Kiprian was also a pos- cally about prayer, but he was demon- he loved his children, desiring always sessor of the dogmatic tradition of the strating for us by his own personal ex- their progress in Christ. This brings to Orthodox Church, but with a broad mind. ample the meaning of prayer — prayer mind an incident very personal for me. He liked discussion and he was not a ster- in the class, prayer in the dining room, It was the fi rst Wednesday of Great Lent ile fanatic unable to see anything beyond prayer in the car, prayer in the beginning and the Presanctifi ed Liturgy was being his own viewpoint. Above all, he believed and prayer in the end. During the hot days served at the monastery. Every year I fi rmly that in Orthodoxy lay the fulfi ll- of summer, when school was not in ses- tried to participate in it — a true mystical ment of the Truth. sion, he would be the fi rst in church for experience. I had called to learn the time On the day of his burial I was privi- the morning and evening services, sing- it would be served and an irresponsible leged to offer the following eulogy for ing, reading and praying. person gave me the wrong time. When I Archbishop Kiprian: Archbishop Kiprian was also a man arrived at the monastery in the hope that “Your Beatitude, Father and Despota, of tradition — a man of the ecclesiastical I would be able to serve, to my surprise I Your Eminences, Your Graces, Brothers order — having in his mind the admoni- found that it was near the end. I entered the in Christ, Members of the Faculty, tion of St. Paul, “So then brethren, stand holy altar intending to participate in the Beloved Seminarians, Beloved Daughter fi rm and hold to the traditions which Holy Communion. Archbishop Kiprian, and Son-in-Law, and mourning people of you were taught by us, either by word of and only he, forbid me, saying in front of the Lord: mouth or by letter” (1 Thess. 2:15). He all the priests, deacons and students, “You “God, of His unexplainable volition, was strict to himself fi rst of all and then to were not here from the beginning and it took from the present earthly life our his subordinates. He loved the ecclesiasti- is not permitted for you to receive.” Of Continued on the next page

11 +Archbishop Kiprian ist in the future until the great day of the Slavic languages and also the language Continued from page 11 Paligenesia [new beginning] when we of the New Testament, having a particu- deeply respected and beloved Archbishop will ‘according to his promise, look for lar weakness for the Greek noun agape Kiprian. He is no more. No more are new heavens, and a new earth, wherein and verb agapo. He had a tender and af- we going to see his face. Since Sunday dwelleth righteousness’ (2 Pet. 3:13). fectionate heart and it bled whenever one night, December 14, he rests in the bo- “Such a great and holy personality of us on the faculty had some bad news som of the Lord and has become a mem- was Archbishop Kiprian! For all of us about a student, whether concerning aca- ber of the Church Triumphant in Heaven here, Vladika Kiprian was an inexhaust- demic progress or character. He would — in the City of God. He is now among ible source of inspiration. What dedica- say, ‘Father, give him a chance,’ or ‘Give the Patriarchs, Prophets, Righteous tion and devotion he had for the Church him a passing mark.’ He had the dignity and Apostles — among the Martyrs, and for the school! Last Tuesday I kissed of a hierarch and the nobility of the Old Confessors, and the myriads who loved for the last time his hand in the classroom World which is so different and diffi cult the glory of God more than the vanities of during recess. He asked me, ‘Did you to preserve in this part of the world. ‘the world of this age,’ among those ‘who learn anything — how is the health of “Dearly beloved, Archbishop Kiprian have not soiled their garments; and they Vladika lakovos?’ Always he had some- is no longer with us. He labored for the shall walk with me in white, for they are thing good to say. Gospel of Christ. He worked in the vine- worthy’ (Rev. 3:4). “In the fi rst years at St. Tikhon’s, yard of our Lord. He multiplied the talents “When Flavian, bishop of the an- he always began the day in the prayer which God entrusted to him, many times cient apostolic city of Antioch, returned room with the students, always standing over. He fought the good fi ght and ran the from a tiresome and painful journey to and carefully listening to what was be- race for over 76 years, keeping the faith Constantinople, he was greeted by his ing read, correcting whenever correction with Christian hierarchical zeal, never spiritual son, the most famous Presbyter was needed. He participated in the simple yielding in matters of faith and doctrine, of all centuries, John Chrysostom, with breakfast of the students and at the end always bearing in mind the words of St. these words: ‘Let us give thanks to the of the day he participated in the supper, John Chrysostom, ‘If you see a cause of Almighty God for permitting us to cel- as well as the evening prayers. Always he suffering anywhere, do not prize concord ebrate the approaching feast (Nativity was a loving father to his spiritual chil- above truth, but make a noble stand even of Christ) with our venerable Father. Let dren in the school and in the monastery. unto death’ (Hom. 22 on Romans). His us thank God, because He gave the head When he had to raise his voice (and be- mission in this present age was fulfi lled to the body, the shepherd to its fl ock, the lieve me, he did this many times) it was and now he walks on the road which leads teacher to his students, the general to his always within the limits of love for the to heaven. In his journey he is accompa- army and the hierarch to his priests.’ sake of the students. nied by his good works, the prayers of “But today we say the contrary. “During the fi rst years, the teaching the Church, the prayers of the priests, and We say, ‘Let us mourn with a Christian staff was limited — Archbishop Kiprian, mostly the prayers of his people whom he mourning,’ because the same feast, which Fr. Vladimir Borichevsky, another dedi- served. the same father calls ‘the metropolis feast’ cated priest, and myself. Almost every “May God grant his soul rest!” approaches, and we are going to celebrate day the Archbishop was in the classroom But life continues. The bitter is fol- it without Archbishop Kiprian. Let us and when the already full day was fi n- lowed by the sweet; mourning is fol- mourn with a Christian mourning because ished, instead of going to bed early as ex- lowed by joy; after the Cross and Passion the Orthodox Church has lost a wise hi- pected, he could be seen at his desk until we have the hopeful Resurrection of the erarch. His diocese has lost its head, the the small hours of the morning, typing Lord. We have before us the legacy which fl ock its shepherd, the seminary its mas- Russian correspondence, writing, study- our Lord left to us, which our forefathers ter, the priests their father, and theology ing, and thinking about the future of our bequeathed to us. We have to work with its initiated one. We, the teachers in this holy Church. it. The Lord gave us talents and at the humble seminary, have lost our father, our “Archbishop Kiprian was a portable proper time will come to ask us for an ac- friend, our supporter, our prototype and university of knowledge and wisdom. counting of what we did with them. Are our example. Possessing an extensive knowledge of we going to dig a hole in the dirt and be “Many of us, as preachers, like to look both the Old and New Testaments, he was buried in it? God forbid! This would be back in history and receive from it exam- at ease in spontaneously quoting verses the worst kind of insult and blasphemy, ples and prototypes with which to present from Holy Scripture in his conversations. not only against God, but also against our to the people examples — for imitation. So too, he possessed the knowledge of the forefathers — against Archbishop Kiprian No doubt there is nothing wrong with ecclesiastical literature and the patristic who labored so hard, until the last breath that, but the Church of Christ is not only tradition as well as being a master of the of his earthly life, to pass on to us what he a ‘past,’ but it is also a ‘present’ and a ‘fu- typikon of the Church. He lived with the had inherited. ture.’ The ecclesiastical personages — the ancient as well as the recent past and the —Archpriest George Dimopoulos saints of God — were never absent from years of his youth were so alive to him From the 1980 Tikhonaire ecclesiastical history. They existed in the and so precious. He never forgot his Vilna past, they exist today, and they will ex- or his Poland. He knew several of the 12 From Pennsylvania to Transylvania My Mission to Romania with O.C.M.C.

mission teams throughout the world ev- ery year. Often these teams go to areas where Orthodox communities have only recently been established, such as in Africa and Asia. Romania, by contrast, is a land where the Orthodox Church is well established; in fact, Romania is de- scribed as an “Orthodox country,” with around 85 percent of the population be- longing (with varying degrees of partici- pation) to the Orthodox Church. Yet, like most other Eastern European nations, Communism overtook Romania in the mid-20th century. The Orthodox Church endured immense persecutions. With the fall of Communism in 1989, the Church was again free and regained much of its former vigor. Churches and monasteries were refurbished, reopened, or founded, and other ministries began. Recovery is an ongoing process, however, and much work continues to be done today. O.C.M.C., through the generosity of the Orthodox faithful in America, assists in several ways, especially with drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs and in the area of youth ministry. It was for this lat- ter reason that I applied and was accepted to go to Romania. I was part of a small but enthusias- tic team. Fr. Aris Metrakos of Columbia, S.C. was our team leader. Three other team members, Nicholas Kotar, Hannah Ray, and Augustina Olofson, were from different parts of California. I, of course, was from Pennsylvania. We represented a tiny spectrum of the jurisdictions in America: Fr. Aris, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese; Hannah and Augustina, Pilgrims at Nicula the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese; ransylvania: to the average Orthodox Christian presence with many Nicholas, the Russian Orthodox Church American, the name conjures up churches and monasteries. This sum- Outside of Russia; and I, the Orthodox Timages of Dracula, vampires, mer I was given the exciting opportunity Church in America. We all shared a spooky castles, and ominous scenery; to experience Orthodox Christianity in deep love for Christ and the Church, many even think that it exists only in fi c- Transylvania as a member of a short-term and brought unique talents and interests tion. Yet Transylvania does exist, not as mission team to Romania sponsored by to the team. We bonded quickly and be- it does in popular mythology, but as a re- the Orthodox Christian Mission Center came friends; some thought we had been gion in western Romania full of natural (O.C.M.C.) friends for years! beauty, having a rich culture and a strong O.C.M.C. sends many short-term Continued on the next page 13 Mission to Romania Continued from page 13 Our team may have been small, but we had large goals. The primary pur- pose of this trip was to cooperate with A.S.C.O.R., an association for Orthodox university students in Romania, to de- velop and run a ten-day summer camp for Orthodox youth. Our other team goals were to experience an Orthodox coun- try; to see the spiritual and monastic life of the Orthodox Church in Romania; to build bridges between Orthodox youth in America and Romania; to see O.C.M.C.’s ongoing activities in Romania; and sim- ply to witness to the fact that there are Orthodox Christians in America. This last goal was very important. With the increase of modernization and globaliza- tion, many young Romanians feel that the Orthodox Church is un-modern and un-Western; in an attempt to be “more Western,” some opt for faiths preached by Mission team with Bp. Vasile of Cluj and ASCOR President Sorin Calea newly arrived Protestant missionaries, or for a secular lifestyle. Our presence was a silent testimony that the Orthodox Church is for all people, and that one can have all the benefi ts of living in a modern, global, Western society and still be Orthodox. Our team arrived in the city of Cluj (pronounced “kloozh”), the fourth larg- est city in Romania and the heart of Transylvania, on August 1, 2005. Bishop Vasile, the remarkable missionary bishop for the Archdiocese of Cluj, met us at the airport. To be greeted and blessed by a hi- erarch is defi nitely a warm welcome into a country! After spending a night at the Archdiocese in Cluj, our team began a week-long pilgrimage to six monaster- ies: Nicula (a men’s monastery), Casiel In the mountains at Valea Ierii (a women’s monastery), Rohia (men’s), but extended to the monastic buildings ing our visit to the Ilva Mare monastery. Salva (women’s), Piatra Fantanele (wom- and churches, which were often fi lled The A.S.C.O.R. students were holding a en’s), and Ilva Mare (women’s). Every with superb iconography. The beauty real summer camp in the fi elds adjoin- monastery had its own distinct character, found in these monasteries offered a brief ing the monastery, with sleeping and but all shared a vibrant yet quiet life of respite from a world that is often loud, eating in tents, washing dishes in the prayer, work, and hospitality. Growth is cheap, and ugly. The monks and nuns, es- river, and cooking over fi re. While we evident, since each community had on- pecially the abbots and abbesses, always Americans stayed in the monastery guest going construction projects of a church showed us hospitality, whether we were house, we spent considerable time with or other building, and young monastics staying the night or just visiting for a few the A.S.C.O.R. campers. We prayed with were the rule, not the exception. The hours. Beginning our mission with such a them and discussed matters relating to the Romanians knew exactly how to pick the pilgrimage gave us a chance to focus, to Church, and were impressed by their deep perfect spots for monasteries, since each reevaluate our own lives with respect to commitment to God and their knowledge one was built in the mountains amidst the Gospel, and to experience one of the of the Orthodox faith. We ate with them, natural splendor and breathtaking vistas. great strengths of the Romanian Church. shared stories, talked, played sports and Beauty was not restricted to the outdoors, Our fi rst camping experience was dur- games, went on hikes, and quickly be- 14 came friends. Finally, we planned our traordinarily alike! Second, the youth I hymns to the Mother of God was simply next summer camp, a collaboration of met were not very different from youth of unforgettable. A.S.C.O.R. and O.C.M.C. the same age in the United States. I com- Despite all its spiritual strengths, This collaborative camp was held in mented on a few occasions that if I made Romania has many social and moral Valea Ierii, a village nestled in the moun- a video of the camp and played it without problems, including high rates of poverty, tains a half hour’s drive from Cluj. Unlike sound, it could just as well be any other alcoholism, and abortion, and a growing the previous camp, we had a camping fa- Orthodox camp in America. Even the problem with drugs. We concluded our cility, with cabins, a main lodge, a well- “language barrier” was not an issue: most mission with a “reality check” by see- equipped kitchen, and a large dining room of the youth had some knowledge of the ing O.C.M.C.’s ongoing efforts to help that doubled as our chapel. The camp- English language, and our team members the Church of Romania address these ers ranged from 7 to 17 years old, with took the time to learn and practice some problems. Floyd Frantz, a long-term mis- counselors ranging from 18 to around 25 Romanian. Lastly, and most importantly, sionary for O.C.M.C., began his work in years of age. Our camp schedule included knowing that we shared the same faith Romania in 1998 and has since opened all the usual Orthodox camp activities: rehabilitation centers and clinics, and has morning and evening prayers, meals and trained counselors to work with the ad- snacks, daily lessons on spiritual topics, dicted. Floyd gave us a tour of his min- group discussions, games, sports, hiking istries, the St. Dimitrie House and the St. in the mountains, arts-and-crafts, sing- Panteleimon Clinic, and his wife Ancuta’s ing, a bonfi re, and visits from hierarchs. ministry, the Protection of the Theotokos Along with two Romanian counselors, I Family Center and Baby Home. It was en- lead a discussion group for campers 10 to couraging to meet these missionaries, to 12 years old. I also held classes in icon see this work and to know that, even after drawing, and helped two Romanian coun- our short-term team is over, the work of selors with an icon-mounting workshop. O.C.M.C will continue in Romania. On our fi nal day at camp, I taught a lesson Continued on the page 19 to all the campers and counselors on the meaning of icons. All this reminded me of my own ex- periences at St. Tikhon’s Camp. I told the counselors and campers about “my sum- mer camp” back in Pennsylvania, and re- lated how it is closely connected with the fi rst Orthodox monastery in America. As The wonder-working Nicula icon of the Theotokos a way to share about some of the riches of the Orthodox Christianity found in and were all part of the Body of Christ America and in my home state, I gave made the “at home” feeling real. away small icon cards of Saints Innocent, To complete the experience of life in Tikhon, Alexis, and Raphael, and I gave an Orthodox country, our team again went copies of Alive in Christ magazine (with on pilgrimage to the Nicula Monastery, the history of St. Tikhon’s Monastery) to this time for the Dormition. Nicula at- Bishop Vasile, several clergy, and to the tracts pilgrims year-round, since it is president of A.S.C.O.R. Some extra cop- home to a famous wonderworking icon ies were passed around the camp, and of the Mother of God that wept in 1699. many counselors and campers spent time For the Dormition, though, the number of perusing their pages and asking questions pilgrims swells to over 100,000. Pilgrims about life in America, both generally and covered every inch of the monastery and ecclesiastically. Some topics they raised, the surrounding parts, and to be in a crowd like the multiplicity of Orthodox juris- of that size was overwhelming to say the dictions in the America, were diffi cult to least. All the services were held outside, explain. and were no brief affair: Vespers began Throughout my time in Romania, I at 6:00 p.m. and lasted until 8:00 p.m., expected to feel different, like an outsider and matins went from 10:00 p.m. to 3:00 in a foreign country (which I was). Much a.m.; other services continued through to my surprise, I felt at home. First, the the night, and concluded with a Divine landscape, with its mix of forests, moun- Liturgy celebrated by the Archbishop of tains, and farmland, was very familiar; Cluj. As if the sight of 100,000 pilgrims Team members Hannah Ray, Augustina Olofson, Transylvania and Pennsylvania look ex- wasn’t enough, hearing them all sing Nicholas Kotar and David Mastroberte 15 Diocesan Assembly Held in Bethlehem With His Grace Bishop Tikhon

he 42nd Diocesan Assembly of the Diocese of Philadelphia and TEastern Pennsylvania was held at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, Bethlehem on Saturday, November 19, 2005. The day began with the Divine Liturgy cel- ebrated by His Grace, Bishop Tikhon and assisted by Diocesan Chancellor, Fr. John Kowalczyk, host pastor, Fr. Dimitri Oselinsky and diocesan deans. Mr. Nicholas Lezinsky conducted the parish choir and council delegates. A continental breakfast and regis- tration followed liturgy. The Assembly was called to order with prayer and the blessing of Bishop Tikhon at 11:30 a.m. Along with Bishop Tikhon, the Assembly included 25 clergy delegates, 22 lay del- egates, 4 alternate delegates, 3 diocesan council members and 8 observers. Fr. Vladimir Fetcho and Mr. Peter Bohlender were elected vice-chairmen and Fr. David Shewczyk and Mrs. Marie Proch were elected secretaries. The minutes of the last Diocesan Assembly were approved as presented in the Assembly Report packet provided to all delegates prior to the Assembly. In his detailed report, Bishop Tikhon noted that this Assembly was his fi rst as the ruling hierarch of the diocese. He thanked all for the support and encour- agement he has received since his conse- cration. He expressed his deep gratitude to His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman for the many years that he shepherded the diocesan fl ock. He asked that the di- ocesan faithful continue to remember Metropolitan Herman in their prayers that he may continue to lead the clergy and faithful of our Church in the direction of the heavenly Kingdom. Bishop Tikhon thanked all who worked on his recent installation at St. Stephen’s Cathedral in 16 position. This offi ce was created to assist the October meeting of the Holy Synod the diocesan bishop in all matters of ad- of Bishops, it was decided that the next ministration of the diocese. Fr. John will All American Council be held in 5 years, also continue his responsibilities as editor 2010 at a site to be determined. His Grace of the diocesan magazine and as diocesan also spoke about fi nancial concerns and secretary and treasurer. His Grace then stewardship in the Orthodox Church in summarized the pastoral changes that America. occurred within the past year, welcomed Bishop Tikhon announced that a new the new diocesan clergy and offered his diocesan website has been launched, best wishes to those clergy who have www.doepa.org. The new website will begun pastoral work in other dioceses. help to keep up to date his parish visita- He also acknowledged mission work in tions, parish activities and help prevent Mechanicsburg, Pa. and expressed his scheduling confl icts. The diocesan mag- desire to continue mission work in other azine, Your Diocese Alive in Christ, has areas throughout the diocese. Bishop also been uploaded to the site as a PDF Tikhon offered a detailed report on his ac- fi le. Hopefully, many back issues will tivities since his consecration in February be available online in the future. In his 2004. He will continue his visits to the concluding remarks, His Grace asked for parishes of the diocese, with the intention three important things from the delegates of visiting all parishes. and the diocesan faithful: zeal, commit- Bishop Tikhon then talked about ment and prayer. He encouraged monastic various topics concerning the life of our vocations, prayerful and fi nancial support Orthodox Church in America. He noted for our seminarians from the diocese and Philadelphia to make it a joyous and in- the recent 14th All American Council held adequate compensation for our clergy. spirational event for all. in Toronto, Canada, the 35th Anniversary His Grace concluded by asking the del- In continuing his report on the state of of the Autocephaly of the Orthodox egates to continue to pray together and the diocese, Bishop Tikhon spoke of his Church in America, the 35th Anniversary work together for the building up of our decision to create the Offi ce of Diocesan of the Glorifi cation of St. Herman of Holy Orthodox Church in America and Chancellor and to appoint Very Reverend Alaska and the visit of the Sitka Icon of especially in our diocese. Archpriest John Kowalczyk to the new the Mother of God. He announced that at Continued on the next page 17 Diocesan Assembly in of the budget was dependent upon free fered a presentation and distributed infor- Bethlehem will donations, as well as funds raised mation about the RBO during the lunch Continued from page 17 by FOS. The 2006 budget will be posted break. Fr. John Onofrey offered a detailed on the OCA website. Fr. John Dresko A discussion of the Metropolitan report of the recent Metropolitan Council was appointed Director of Development. Council report continued after the meeting held in November 2005. He noted Chancellor Fr. Robert Kondratick re- Assembly reconvened. The reports of the report of His Beatitude, Metropolitan ported on the OCA’s ongoing work to the diocesan council secretary, dioc- Herman. His Beatitude stated that the protect the Church, its clergy and faith- esan treasurer and diocesan auditors fol- Orthodox Church in America should con- ful from the scandal and consequences of lowed. The proposed budget for 2006 of vene smaller conferences to improve the sexual abuse and misconduct. The OCA’s $512,859.00 was then discussed at length. life of the Church between All American newspaper, The Orthodox Church and The budget includes the diocesan assess- Councils. He stressed the importance of Directory Sourcebook have been placed ment of $31.00 and the OCA Fair Share each diocese reporting to the Chancery of on the OCA’s website to save the Church of $105.00 per person. The budget is also the Orthodox Church in America. In order the cost of printing and mailing. based upon a diocesan census of 3,580 to maintain proper records in the archives The Assembly adjourned for lunch at adults. One of the main topics of discus- of the OCA, each diocese must submit the 1:00 p.m. Mr. Alexander Krenitsky of- sion centered upon increasing and effec- minutes of diocesan assemblies and dioc- esan councils, and membership lists, as well as other documents to the Chancery. He also emphasized the responsibility of the members of the Metropolitan Council to report back to their diocesan bishop and councils on what takes place at the Metropolitan Councils so that diocesan faithful know what is happening on the Church-wide level. The Metropolitan Council reviewed the fi nancial records, statements and budget for 2006. After lengthy discussion the fi nancial report was accepted. The 2006 budget, with the $105 per member “fair share” was also accepted with the understanding that part

18 tively implementing funds for mission in 2006. work. The proposed budget was passed As the Assembly concluded, His by the Assembly. Grace Bishop Tikhon offered his thanks The Assembly continued with the di- to Fr. Dimitri Oselinsky and the faithful ocesan deanery and departmental reports of St. Nicholas Church for their work in including Religious Education, Missions, hosting the Assembly. His Grace thanked Publication/Public Relations, Youth and all the delegates for their participation in Insurance. Fr. Timothy Hojnicki offered a the Assembly and asked all to pray and detailed report about the new mission in labor for the building up of Christ’s Holy Mechanicsburg, Pa. There was also a dis- Church. The Assembly was closed with cussion about changes to the OCA clergy prayer and the blessing of the bishop at pension fund which will now include fair- 3:30 p.m. rental and housing information beginning —Archpriest David Shewczyk

Mission to Romania Deadline for the next issue of Continued from page 15 Your Diocese I returned to the United States on I met do not seem far away. I know that, August 20 after a successful mission, despite the ocean in between us, we are Alive in Christ with all of the team’s goals accomplished. always together in Christ. I was reinforced by the deep faith I en- is March 12, 2006 countered and challenged to grow in my —David M. Mastroberte Please submit all articles (typed), own relationship with God and commit- David Mastroberte, a Reader at Holy Trinity pictures, parish news, etc, on disc to: Orthodox Church in Stroudsburg, Pa., is a ment to the Gospel. I felt privileged to senior at Keuka College in central New York, have been a part of this short-term mis- majoring in visual and verbal arts. He has Alive in Christ sion team, and to have served and learned been an iconographer for many years, and Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania from my fellow Orthodox Christians in some of his work can be seen at www.holy- Box 130, South Canaan, PA 18459 Romania. Even though I’m now back to trinitypoconos.org/dmicons. For more infor- or e-mail to [email protected] “life as usual,” the memories of my trip mation on O.C.M.C. and its work throughout are still lively; Romania and the people the world, please visit www.ocmc.org.

19 On the Prophecy of Isaiah, and the Names Emmanuel and Jesus

Sermon for the Nativity of Christ by Saint Philaret of Moscow

Now all this was done, that it might be ful lled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God With Us. he holy Evangelist Matthew re- --Matt. 1:22-23 Tpeatedly observes that all the cir- cumstances and events which sig- naled the birth upon earth of our Incarnate God and Savior Jesus Christ, were not merely a concurrence of circumstances and events, but were an exact fulfi llment of prophetic predictions. This is an ob- servation important not only to the Jews — who would not view even that which might be examined by the natural eye, otherwise than through the vision glass of the prophets — but also to everyone who wishes to discover the workings of Providence in the entangled paths of men, and to discern the hand of God in the events of the world. Is it not evidently a work of God when something foretold several years ago is exactly fulfi lled? And above all, when that is fulfi lled which, according to ordinary ideas and calcula- tions, seemed impossible of fulfi llment? As though she stood before his eyes, Isaiah points to the most blessed Virgin Mary: Behold, a virgin; at a time when not only this virgin herself, but even her parents and her forefathers, had not as yet come into the world, “Behold,” says he, “a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a Son.” What say you, O prophet? Can a virgin conceive? Can she who gives birth, still be a virgin? If this be possible, then how can it be ac- complished in the nation, to whom you Nativity foretell this event? Even if it be fulfi lled, then how can this be the sign, the evident and trustworthy sign, which you fore- 20 tell? “The Lord Himself shall give you a Nazareth, should be given, according to possible works, in order that the predicted sign” (Isa. 7:14.). If you indeed see this Isaiah’s prophecy, to the house of David; sign should be fulfi lled. A general taxing daughter of David, to whom you point, that the virgin, who having conceived of is chosen as the means of bringing Mary, saying, “Behold, a virgin”; if you see her the Holy Spirit, and after staying three who, by the angel’s counsel, was at last in Nazareth, which is far distant from months in the house of a relative, should received into the house of Joseph, from the birthplace of David, and Nazareth to Bethlehem, and despised — an orphan, poor, by this same means the origin and with no marks of her royal of her Son from David is truly descent, espoused to a carpen- and triumphantly shown. But ter; then tell us, how shall the as such a taxing of the people Lord give that sign that she of God was not in use among should appear a virgin of the them, no, it was even forbid- line of David, giving birth to den by the law; it became nec- her child in the house and in essary to submit the people of the city of David, namely, as God under the rule of another another prophet appointed, in nation. And thus did God shake Bethlehem? almost all the kingdoms of the See then, how faithfully earth, and subjected them to the Lord himself answers for Rome. He set Augustus over the truth of the prophecy: “The Rome; and to him did he grant Holy Spirit came upon Mary, a universal peace, that his and the power of the Highest might and the opportunity of overshadowed her” (Luke the time should give him the 1:35); and she conceived, be- idea, and that from him should ing still a virgin; and having go out the decree, “that all the become the mother of the Son, world should be taxed” (Luke she nevertheless remained a 2:1) about the very time when virgin. In order that those who the Son of the Virgin was to be were unacquainted with the born. This taxing, as unexpect- mystery of this conception edly as unavoidably, brought should not be able to malign Joseph to his native town of her who had conceived, she Bethlehem: Mary was obliged was betrothed to her husband to follow Joseph; and thus the before that conception; and, so earthly lineage of Emmanuel that this sign of the Lord, that a was revealed at the very mo- virgin had conceived without a ment His birth drew nigh; and husband, might be clear to ev- — what seemed impossible but ery healthy mind, the concep- a few days before — He was tion followed the espousals, born precisely as was foretold even before they came togeth- by the prophet, in Bethlehem. er (Matt. 1:19), even before Truly, all was done, that the Joseph took unto him his wife prophecy might be fulfi lled, (Matt. 1:24) into his house. To and that in the great and small Joseph himself, an angel was affairs of men there should be sent to reveal this mystery and Holy Prophet Isaiah evident the one grand sign of to show him this sign, so that the work of God ruling over he would not remain in doubt; them. “Now all this was done, while to others, who could nei- that it might be fulfi lled which ther see nor hear angels, a no less trust- abide until the last period of her pregnan- was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, worthy witness of the sign and herald of cy at Nazareth, without thinking of any saying, Behold, a Virgin shall be with the mystery, was given in the person of journey, or removal; — that she should child, and bring forth a Son, and they Joseph himself, who was known to all as bring forth “the Ruler of Israel,” accord- shall call His Name Emmanuel, which a just man, (Matt. 1:19), and therefore was ing to the prophecy of Micah, (Micah being interpreted is, God with us.” unable to deceive people, and still less able 5:2.) in Bethlehem. Truly here, as Isaiah In considering the exact fulfi llment of to slander God and the Holy Spirit. But once more hints, was “a wearying of the the prophetic words relating to the birth how was it to be brought about that the Lord,” that is, it was necessary to perform of our Lord Jesus Christ, some may ask, sign, already revealed in the almost pagan diffi cult, and to human understanding, im- Continued on the next page 21 Sermon for Nativity without mystery to believers, and which demption: for without Jesus sin was with Continued from page 21 was concealed from unbelievers. us, which we had inherited from Adam, Why is it that prophecy about His Name Thirdly, if without limiting ourselves and ourselves unceasingly committed; was not, apparently, so exactly fulfi lled? to the visible alone, we compare by the and “whoever committeth sin is the ser- The prophet Isaiah had forenamed Him aid of faith, or of a revelation of things not vant of sin” (John 8:34); the devil was Emmanuel; but, instead of that, the angel seen, the name of Emmanuel, as indicated with us, for “he that committeth sin is of commanded that they should call Him in the prophecy, with that of Jesus, as re- the devil” (John 3:8); but Jesus, having Jesus. vealed in the event, we shall then easily come upon earth, fulfi lled in His life the To this, I answer, fi rstly, that if the oth- perceive in them not only an exact, mu- law of God, which we had transgressed; er details foretold concerning the Son of tual, inward conformity, but even a com- by His suffering He has made atonement the Virgin, and among them even the least plete identity. What separates us men from for the sin which we had committed; by essential ones — as, for instance, the in- God? “Your iniquities,” says the prophet, His death He has overcome death, to dication of the place of His birth — have “have separated between you and your which we were condemned for our sin; been exactly fulfi lled, how is it possible by His descent into hell He delivered us then that the author of prophecy, the Holy from the dark power of the devil; by his Spirit, could have suffered it to be inexact Resurrection He obtained for us anew in that which forms the very substance, “the life of God” (Eph. 4:18), from which the spirit and aim of all the particulars we “were alienated” by sin. foretold, namely, that in the Son of the God is with us in Jesus by the gift of Virgin God is with us, or in other words, the Holy Spirit; for the Son of God, who that by Him we are saved? came upon earth to redeem us, returned Secondly, I admit that in compar- into heaven to “pray the Father” that he ing the prophecy regarding the name of would “give us another Comforter, that Emmanue1, with its accomplishment, He may abide with us for ever, even the we may perceive something seemingly Spirit of truth” (John 14:16,17). inaccurate in the words; but at the same God is with us through Jesus, in our time, I unhesitatingly affi rm that this mind and understanding; for no man has seeming inexactitude is not only no fault seen God at any time; the Only-Begotten or imperfection in the prophecy, or in Son, Who is in the bosom of the Father, its fulfi llment, but even forms part of its He has declared him” (John 14:18). perfection, and reveals in a new manner God is with us through Jesus, in our hearts and feelings: for Christ dwells in the divine origin of both. Recall also to St. Philaret of Moscow your mind, that the Emmanuel was both our hearts by faith (Ephes. 3:17), and at foretold and came upon earth according God” (Isa. 59:2). Thus separation from the same time, the love of God is shed to prophecies, for the faithful; and where God and a state of sin are one and the same abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit there is faith, there everything cannot be thing. Consequently, drawing nigh unto which is given unto us (Rom. 5:5). clearly seen, but something must be sup- God, and salvation from sin, are also one God is with us through Jesus, through- posed to remain hidden, because faith, and the same thing. Consequently again, out our whole life and works, if we but as the Apostle says, “is the evidence of Emmanuel, that is, “God is with us,” and entirely devote ourselves to him: for then things not seen,” while an open and per- Jesus, that is, “the Savior from sin,” are not we, but Christ lives in us (Gal. 2:20); fect view would leave no place for faith. also one and the same. And consequently and God works in us both to will and to You must agree then, that it behooved the the prophecy is true, and the accomplish- do of his good pleasure (Phil. 2:13). Emmanuel, in His advent upon earth, both ment exact to the prophecy. Emmanuel God is with us through Jesus, if we to be suffi ciently manifest so as to be rec- is the Savior, Jesus is God is with us. Let but wish it, in all the conditions and cir- ognized, and at the same time so hidden us learn, O Christians, to understand the cumstances of our life; so that, when that we might believe in Him, and that un- deep wisdom of this prophecy; and let us suffering, we may suffer with Him, that believers should not be able to penetrate endeavor to feel the sublime blessing of we may be also glorifi ed together (Rom. into His mysteries, and thereby mar the its fulfi llment. 8:17); dying, we may die unto the Lord work of God which He had to accomplish. God is with us in Jesus, through his (Rom. 14:8). And therefore that which the prophet re- very Incarnation: for in Him both the di- In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, vealed to believers in the unusual name vine and our human nature are not only God is with us, O Christians, always and of Emmanuel, the same was represented brought together, but indivisibly united, in everything; only let us not cease to be to the world by the angel under the veil yet without being confounded in the one with God, by remembering Him, by pray- of a name not so unfamiliar to the ears of person of the God-Man; and therefore ing to Him, through faith and love, and the Jews, the name of Jesus, which one of “He,” as the Apostle says, “is not ashamed by constant exercise of that which pleases their judges and one of their high priests to call us brethren” (Heb. 2:11). God, and which draws us near to Him. had borne long before, which was also not God is with us in Jesus, through re- Amen. 22 e Founding of St. Tikhon’s Monastery In South Canaan, Pennsylvania, 1905-1906 Part V

n July 31, 1905, the grounds of “Before vespers I explained to every- cross and gave me into the hands of her new monastery were blessed by one, as much as I could, the importance brother, my uncle, how he threw me into OSt. Raphael of Brooklyn, and of the day, and during the service I said a the carriage, how I tumbled in it a couple the fi rst Divine Liturgy was served at the prayer of gratitude to the Lord God ask- of times, and before I managed to look site of the future monastery church. The ing for the elimination of hatred and the back, my dear poor little house with all newly founded monastery and orphan’s multiplication of love. And in this way I its precious humbleness had disappeared home continued their life and growth with fi nished the important day of Portsmouth from my eyes. The days of my loneliness, Fr. Arseny making frequent pastoral vis- peace.”1 the days of my seminary school existence its, traveling from his parish in Mayfi eld fl ashed in my mind, when once a year where he still served as rector. The fol- Departing for the school I was taken back to my dear home, and lowing report by Fr. Arseny appeared only in a carriage driven by bulls, where, in the October 1-14, 1905 issue of the “The next day, as soon as the sun on the fi rst day of my arrival, the school- Messenger. shined through the windows, I woke the issued boots were unemotionally, cer- older children-orphans up and told them emoniously taken away and locked up in From the Diary of a Missionary that the school year at the English school a chest and returned only for the Sunday had already started and we should appear service. The remainder of the week I used “. . . But then the place that is “chosen” there and get registered. We got ready, to walk in the “natural” ones,2 tempering came closer, the grounds of the monas- said a prayer in the church, and after I them with all sorts of splinters and chang- tery could be seen, and I felt happier in had put the three children into the car- es of weather. I turned my eyes towards my heart. I approached the house. The riage, we set out on our way to school. the little orphans sitting around me. And children joyful and cheerful ran out to The children’s joy, which shined in the I felt so much pity for them, I had such meet me. They surrounded me, looking happy faces of the little ones and other a desire to hug them, caress them and at me with serene eyes, each one expect- associated thoughts, brought to my mind show them lots of love so that unhappy ing a present — one was expecting a little my childhood and my departure for the orphanhood did not remind them of their shovel, another — a little rake, another seminary school. I remember how my loneliness. I blessed every one of them — a doll, everything that had been re- crying mother blessed with the sign of the with the sign of the cross, saying a few quested in advance. And then the laborers 1. Here Fr. Arseny refers to the Treaty of Portsmouth 2. Fr. Arseny is referring to going in his bare feet. which during the summer of 1905 was concluded in for the Kingdom of God approached me. Portsmouth, N.H. ending the Russo-Japanese War. Continued on the next page One asked for the Spiritual Meadow, the other for the Flowers from the Garden of Ephrem the Syrian. A special feeling was in the air, the atmosphere was special, and I immersed myself into the surround- ing life . . . Over there you can hear chil- dren laughing, and candy tasting is under way; other there, to the side, the Spiritual Meadow is being perused, and here in the monastery garden are fresh juicy apples to quench one’s thirst. Everything around is beautiful — silence, calmness! Lord! How can people not understand that na- ture is the best friend and healer of many ailments of the soul, and why do they not seek pleasure in spiritual solitude, but seek after the friends of Mammon? Site of December 1905 cornerstone laying (photo: July 31, 1905) 23 Monastery Centennial ing to the blueprints includes the cells was by way of Erie Railroad. None of us Continued from page 23 of the monks and a small temple, which had ever taken it there, since usually oth- warm words of encouragement. Here is faces the building to the East, has been er roads were chosen that passed through the English school building. I introduced placed. towns with our Orthodox parishes. In the little ones to the teacher, asked for Special celebrations for the laying of those cases the clergy would meet and special patronage, since two of them did the cornerstone were not planned, since it guide Vladiko during transfers. So we not know English and set out on the way would have been diffi cult to attract a lot had to take a carriage from one station to back, asking the Lord in my thoughts to of people to the remote monastery estate another etc., so that in the long run a rela- help them grow up, and to enlighten these in the season of winter. At the same time, tively short distance separating New York little ones spiritually for the benefi t of the the speed with which even more complex from the monastery turned into a quite Orthodox Church and to the glory of our buildings are usually erected in America complex combination of transfers and so 6 worthy undertaking. . . .” promised that in the near future, some- on and so forth. Desiring to avoid these Fr. Arseny then quoted this letter time in the spring, construction would be inconveniences, not to burden anybody which he received from his mother in fi nished, and therefore the opening and and shorten the hours of the trip, Vladiko Ukraine: blessing celebration would follow, and at had personally studied the schedule of the “August 1. The mother’s blessing. that time, the prayerful gathering could be railroads adjacent to the monastery area Today I have received a letter from my el- more solemn and better attended. and found that Erie is the most conve- derly parent, which contains a few warm But Vladiko with typical responsive- nient. words related to the undertaking that was So we now started for the station of bestowed upon me and imbues the very that railroad. essence of my soul. “Let the Lord God We had only a few blocks left to go, bless you for the worthy and holy under- but they turned out to be blocked. We taking (organizing the holy cloister and moved forward with diffi culty, making the orphanage). I rejoice and I am in tears out thick clouds of smoke and deafening from this joy, that the Lord has called you sounds of countless fi re whistles, bells . . to this endeavor, although I grieve the . It was obvious that something was burn- separation from you. I hope that once you ing ahead. What it was, we could not fi nd complete this undertaking you will come out, and being concerned that there was to see me. And I will be asking the Lord little time left before the train’s departure, we started to hurry the coachman. We to keep me alive until that time.” had almost reached our destination by a In December of 1905, Archbishop roundabout way when we found out that (Saint) Tikhon came from New York to- some ferry landing was on fi re. gether with Archpriest (Saint) Alexander Ferry landings are piers that special Hotovitsky, for the laying of the founda- types of ferryboats for transporting pas- tion stone of St. Tikhon’s Monastery. St. sengers, cattle and goods from one side of Alexander, the editor of the American the river to the other, moor to. There are Orthodox Messenger, wrote this account many of them in New York, since the city which appeared in the 15-28 December, is surrounded by water and represents an 1905 issue.3 island; that is why almost all railroad sta- Father Arseny tions are situated not in the city but on the At St. Tikhon’s ness accepted the request from the clois- other side of the water which surrounds ter to come and personally bless the lay- it and that is why before taking the train Habitation ing of the cornerstone. For this purpose you have to cross the river. On the riv- he appointed December 8 as the day for erbank end of 23rd street, where we had Laying of the Foundation Stone for the this ceremony, so that he could serve set out for, there were four piers that be- Monastery Building by His Eminence, the liturgy in New York for the patronal longed to the Pennsylvania, the Erie, the The Most Reverend Tikhon, feast of the Cathedral temple,4 and after Lackawanna and the Central Railroad of Archbishop of the Aleutians the ceremony have time to come back by New Jersey. The last two had just been and North America Saturday for a new trip to Ansonia5 where built and were magnifi cent buildings and a complete blessing of the temple was set amidst them our Erie was defi nitely lost, Praise be to God! One more step has been to be done the following Sunday. looked like an insignifi cant box, emaciat- taken towards the establishment of St. Taking me along as his companion, ed, unattractive, dirty — it did not fi t with Tikhon’s cloister. The cornerstone of the His Eminence left the church house on 6. The trip St. Alexander describes would take them across main monastery building, which accord- the Hudson River by ferry, to Hoboken, N.J., whence Wednesday afternoon. This time the trip they would take the Erie Railroad to Scranton, Pa., 3. ROAM, 9:24 15-28 Dec. 1905, pp. 473-482. This docu- 4. The patronal feast of St. Nicholas Cathedral in New York and then transfer to the Erie’s Wyoming Branch which ment and all those in the present installment have been is Dec. 6, or Dec. 19 on the civil calendar. stopped at Georgetown, Pa. (later renamed Gravity, a translated by Alexander Maximov. 5. Ansonia, Connecticut. village just south of the monastery). 24 its neighbors. And how many times upon train, and at the train station, as reward ter the previous summer, bad weather had hearing about fi res of similar buildings I for the trouble we had lived through, we darkened another celebration, that of the heard people say that it is about time, so to found out that throughout the whole dis- blessing of the place for the monastery speak, for the Erie pier to burn and clear tance to Georgetown (the station near the building and erection of the cross. the space for a more respectable building. monastery) we would have to change rail- Like the wise virgins who met their Therefore our fi rst thought was whether road cars only once, to a different branch bridegroom did the dwellers of the habita- the ill-fated pier was really on fi re. At that line. Our time in the railroad car was tion greet their Archpastor. The monastery moment, though, we were very far from spent digesting, with horror and anguish, abbot, Fr. Hieromonk Arseny had found it any welcome expectation of seeing mag- the unpalatable reports about Russia from impossible to follow Vladiko’s advice not nifi cent works of architecture on this spot the Russian media and from American to await his arrival, and to allow all the in the near future. We were solely occu- newspapers. God spare us all! inhabitants to rest peacefully at the ex- pied with worry, and the thought: “What A small monastery carriage was wait- pected time. This was against the sincere, are we going to do about our trip? If we ing for Vladiko at the station; it rolled unanimous desire of the whole habitation miss this train, we would not be able to quickly towards the cloister, cutting to meet the Archpastor and to receive a make it for the other one . . .” through the evening twilight. Darkness hierarch’s blessing at the moment when And then we got very near the huge had already fallen. On either side, oc- the Most Reverend Vladiko would arrive fi re, vainly trying to make out amidst the casional scattered solitary lights began at the monastery. The small porch of the clouds of smoke whether our pier had sur- fl ickering at the farms situated near the orphan home was illuminated with icon lamps. The home also temporarily housed the church. After two or three minutes we had left the Below, by the fence Vladiko was greeted by the senior brothers wearing pier, and then we watched from the river for mantiyas and klobuks, led by Fr. Abbot a while, the struggle between the devouring Arseny and Igumen Fr. Tikhon. abyss of the  re as it crushed the buildings Present here also were a priest and a psalomshchik from a neighboring district, Fr. A. Boguslavsky and A. Trofi movich, who had come to attend the ceremony. While the hierarchical tropar was be- ing sung His Eminence entered the little church, and here he was greeted, with a bow, by the younger brethren — the or- phans who were cared for at the cloister. They were holding candles in their hands and joined the church singing with their angelic voices. Everything was touching, profoundly moving. I entered the church and at once felt something unutterably pleasant, dear, sweet as though I had met something vived. It seemed incomprehensible that road. There was not a single cloud in the most dear to my heart. Quiet, full of sad- in this sea of fi re blanketing the whole sky . . . The stars began to shine, but with ness and love, lit by the icon lamps, the area, it could have remained untouched. a dim, gentle winter light that failed to il- images of the Savior, the Theotokos, St. How great was our joy when we heard luminate. It felt heavenly. It does not look Nicholas the God-Pleaser, St. Alexander, from fi refi ghters that not even the traffi c like winter at all, though it is December and the Holy Angels were looking at the down the Erie was halted, and the ferries outside, and at this time in past years pilgrim. These are our icons, our former were maintaining their regular schedule. snow drifts had blanketed the fi elds and New York iconostasis! How much joy and It was the new stations that were burning forests and villages and towns . . . sorrow have been revealed in the prayers . . . After two or three minutes we had left The heavenly, solemn tranquillity of of New York fl ock before the images of the pier, and then we watched from the this December night cast a special charm these Persons — the holiest Persons for river for a while, the struggle between the upon a traveling city-dweller who had the Christian heart. How close and at- devouring abyss of the fi re as it crushed broken away from the roar and confusion tached we had become to these icons. the copper plating and steel beams of the of New York. Vladiko spoke about it out Seven years, all of the fi rst seven years buildings, and the skill of man as he di- loud, rejoicing that the laying of the foun- of my unworthy service in the most high rected all his strength, ingenuity and en- dation stone would be accompanied by order of presbyter, went under their heav- ergy against this force. wonderful weather. He reminisced with enly protection. They are witnesses of In any case we were not late for the sympathy about how, at the same clois- Continued on the next page

25 Monastery Centennial Let the name of the kind person recently addressed the Committee which Continued from page 25 who was the fi rst to suggest at the last was established by the Convention, with refl ections, sinful or holy, of blessed in- Convention of the Orthodox Mutual Aid a proposition to recommend the Mutual spirations and of gloomy despondency! Society that it is necessary, absolutely Aid Society, to take the newly established They supported and brought up our New necessary, and as soon as possible, that orphanage under its patronage and solicit York church family! we Orthodox have an orphanage here in the Society to regularly subsidize the or- I remember how sad it was to part America, be blessed. We must save from phanage from the Society’s means. with this sacred object, when through the perishing the souls of the children who zeal of kind Russian people a new iconos- have lost their mother and father. And no- The general draft by Fr. Arseny in- tasis, rich and splendid, was erected in the body could advance this holy cause better cludes these items: New York cathedral. Some of the parishes then the Society. I thank that person for his tried to purchase these holy icons from kind heart! How sincerely and unanimous 1. The orphanage is called The the old iconostasis. But for us it seemed did the whole of Convention respond to Orphanage of the Orthodox Mutual Aid impossible to agree to this. And only his suggestion. At that time it was decid- Society at St. Tikhon’s Monastery. when we heard the fi rst word about the ed to set up a committee to work out the 2. The Orthodox Mutual Aid Society establishment of the new monastery, by a main principles for organizing the orphan- gives a one-time grant of $500 to cover common decision of our New York fl ock, age and to fi nd an appropriate place; the part of the expenses incurred in: furnish- with the blessing of the Archpastor, this sources of fi nancing were also identifi ed. ing the orphanage (up to $500 was spent), sacred article was presented to the young The Committee included Fr. Hieromonk fi xing plumbing and heating ($335 was habitation, which belongs to the whole Arseny, the Chairman of the Mutual Aid spent). American Church and is called to contrib- Society, Fr. Jason Kappanadze, O. Vakhna, 3. The Mutual Aid Society gives $4 a ute to the salvation of the entire American G. Thier and Archpriest Hotovitsky. Soon month to support each orphan (from the fl ock. It was presented as a brotherly wel- afterwards Fr. Arseny was fortunate to Society). come with best wishes. fi nd an appropriate farm in the environs Note 1. If in the course of the year the Let the sincere aspirations of the pil- of Mayfi eld, where it was suggested that orphanage does not receive a set group grims ascend to these Most Holy Images a monastic habitation be established, and of children who are Society members depicted on these icons here as well! Let with it an orphanage, which would meet (in other words ten), then the remaining Them rejoice in the sincere service of the the demands and wishes of the Mutual sum at the rate of $4 a month per each brethren for the benefi t of their souls, and Aid Society. Vladiko inspected the land person would be transferred to the re- for the welfare of the poor and handi- and approved the purchase, and after- serve funds of the Mutual Aid Society at capped, spiritually and physically. Let wards, at different times, all members of the Orphanage. If the number of orphans Them comfort the tears of the little or- the Committee examined the same place, from this category should be greater than phans who are deprived of their parental which had become adopted by the entire ten, then the Society would pay the miss- home and have found here a supportive diocese, [and] the purchased buildings, ing amount at the same rate. hand. Let Them lead the holy cloister, to and were most enthusiastic based on ev- Note 2. The Orphanage administra- spiritual richness, good fortune, growth erything they had seen. From the very tion has the right to accept orphans who from strength to strength for the increase beginning, the generosity and care of the are not members of the Society and sup- of righteousness in this country, and the Archpastor and the economical hand of port them through funds raised by the ad- implanting of peace and love in the hearts the Abbot made a distinct impact on the ministration itself. of the Orthodox Christians, to the glory of whole undertaking. Without repeating ev- 4. The Board of the Mutual Aid Christ’s name in America! . . . erything that has been said in our publica- Society is granted the right to select or- And let Them cause violent men, the tion already, we would like to say that even phaned Society members who, with the enemy’s crafty designs, the storms and up till now the sources of the cloister and knowledge of the Orphanage administra- confusions of life, to pass by the clois- orphanage upkeep have been the generous tion, are given priority over other orphans ter, and through the innocent children’s sacrifi ces of the Most Reverend Founder when accepted. prayers let Them turn people’s stony and Fr. Arseny, whom the various charita- Note. Orphan children who are Society hearts into loving ones, and direct to this ble brotherhoods, churches, parishes and members, who are in the orphanage at the place the thoughts and offerings of bene- private persons come to with their help. If present time, are considered as accepted factors. God grants it, a time will come when the and have the right to receive help from the O kind people, support our mod- monastery cloister can pay for itself and Society. est habitation, the fi rst Orthodox clois- even be able to support the orphanage; till 5. The Board of the Orthodox Mutual ter in this heterodox country, where the now, though, the latter one is in need of Aid Society is granted the right to inspect Orthodox fl ock still feels itself so lonely, a more certain and stable maintenance. the Orphanage at any time and to report suffering under the burden of tempta- Since in its present state it meets the cri- any disorderliness and shortcomings of tions; and hasten to help the fi rst under- teria that were presented to the kind atten- the administration found to His Eminence taking of this cloister — taking care of the tion of the Committee, Fr. Arseny, with the and to the subsequent Convention. orphans! blessing of the Archpastor Vladiko, has 6. At the end of the year the Orphanage 26 administration reports to the Board of the warmth and generosity! If all of us saw will grow and grow, since our brother- Mutual Aid Society on how the funds re- how certain brotherhoods and people has- hoods consists of the same people, who, ceived from the Society were spent, and tened to send their donations, as much as on their own initiative, without urging presents at the Convention a report on the they were able, for the monastery and the from others, sent their contributions, and operation of the Orphanage for the period orphanage — how warmheartedly they who at the last Convention supported the of time since the last Convention. welcomed the fi rst thought about the es- idea of the need for an Orthodox orphan- 7. The Orphanage administration re- tablishment of such an orphanage — then age in America so wholeheartedly! serves the right to collect private dona- shouldn’t we believe and hope that after And at the present time one may note tions from Society members as well as other persons in America and Russia. Appendix. 8. The Orphanage administration consists of the head of the orphanage (a 1. Our brief experience, and information gathered from knowledgeable priest-monk of St. Tikhon’s habitation), a persons, yields approximately this breakdown for the upkeep of each orphan: female supervisor of the Orphanage and at least two sisters of charity. Year Month 9. The Orphanage administration ac- cepts responsibility for working out a Shoes for the period of one year -- 4 pairs $1.20 4.80 40 c. detailed charter for the Orphanage within 8 dresses 12.80 $1.00 c. twelve months from the time of the trans- 8 shirts 2.00 16 2/3 c. fer of the Orphanage to the patronage of 12 pairs of socks 1.80 15 c. the Mutual Aid Society, and presents it 12 bars of soap 1.20 10 c. for consideration to the special committee 3 shawls or hats 3.00 25 c. elected from the members of the Society 2 coats 6.00 50 c. and St. Tikhon’s habitation. Doctor and medicine 6.00 50 c. 10. In the case of a major renovation of the Orphanage or construction of a new Total: $36.80 3.06 2/3 building, the Society will help with a one time grant of the amount set by the current Therefore there is 93 1/3 cents left every month for food, heat, light Convention or the board of the Society and maid. Everything remaining for the complete upkeep and care- with the agreement of all brotherhoods. free life of the orphans will be provided by the Holy Cloister in part 11. In case of termination of this un- from its farm and in part through private donations which are count- dertaking or closing of the Orphanage due ed on to support at least ten more orphans who are not the members to some important reasons, St. Tikhon’s of the Society. The information for the above-mentioned breakdown cloister returns to the Mutual Aid Society were taken from the best families of Rusyns and Americans. the sum paid as one-time grants during the entire period but not the sums given to 2. In order not to burden the members of the Society with unnecessary support the orphans. expenses for the upkeep of the Orphanage (according to the personal opinion of Fr. Arseny), the $500 of accumulated interest could be used as a one time [Here Fr. Arseny appended fi nancial data grant, and the annual grant may include the interest and be supplanted by the — please see the accompanying box.] surplus funds left after meeting expenses.

This brief report by Fr. Arseny was accepted with minor alterations by all the appeal of the Board of the Society, not that this undertaking is halfway to being members of the Committee, with the ex- one member within the ranks of the latter realized. ception of one who chooses to hold off on would be found declining to give 15-20 Fr. Tikhon served a short litiya of a decision regarding this undertaking un- cents a year for the little orphan children! greeting and Vladiko said the dismissal. til the future Convention, which has very And it will be a fulfi llment of the saying, Fr. Abbot, according to tradition, greeted broad powers in the area of mandatory “Many little streams make a great river.”7 the Archpastor with a request to pray for collections. But this Convention will only The Society could then truly rejoice in its the salvation of the Brethren and to bless take place a year and a half from now! It purpose and in the manifestation of its those who inhabit the cloister. He ex- would be really sad if we did not fi nd a life. And really, with everybody pitching pressed joy on the occasion of Vladiko’s way to ascertain the opinion of the entire in who sympathizes with the holy under- new visit to this quiet corner and on the Society now and did not give immediate taking, the numbers of those contributing occasion of Vladiko’s agreement to place support to the young institution which has the cornerstone into the foundation of the now been born from the thought of the 7. This is an English equivalent of the Russian proverb St. monastery temple. Vladiko responded Alexander uses. A more literal translation is, “If everyone Society itself. The duty of Christian love in the world contributes a thread, a naked man will a by thanking and wishing the brethren is to treat the holy undertaking with all the get a shirt.” Continued on the next page

27 Monastery Centennial his fl ock, for which the fl ock repaid him turned over, and so forth. Continued from page 27 with heartfelt love. As a monk, Fr. Tikhon The darkness of night had not dis- to make progress in good deeds, so that immediately responded with compassion persed when a monk’s voice could be when the heavenly bridegroom comes he to the news about the establishment of heard calling by the visitors’ doors, would fi nd everybody wakeful and ready St. Tikhon’s habitation, fi rst of all with a “Through the prayers of our holy Master, to meet Him in a proper manner. “As far generous donation ($100) for its needs, Lord have mercy on us!” That was a nov- as I am concerned,” added Vladiko, “I did and he accepted a call to become one of ice who was on duty, summoning to the not come here to trouble you, but pray to- the brethren as the fi rst elder of the holy midnight offi ce. The brethren got up and, gether with you that the Lord may send habitation, although it was hard to part led by Vladiko, went to the temple where His great mercy on all who inhabit this with his Hartshorne fl ock. His parting Fr. Tikhon served the midnight offi ce and cloister and on the enterprise that has be- with the latter had been most touching. matins strictly following the rubrics. It gun. And I conclude my greeting with the The coworkers and spiritual children of was after eight in the morning when we monastery prayer, instead of Many Years: Fr. Tikhon saw their spiritual father off had the dismissal of matins. Continuing “Lord Jesus Christ, save the brethren of with tears of regret and even now, in their bad weather persuaded us that it would this holy habitation!” fi lial letters, they testify of their love and be unreasonable to expect guests from The cloister has improved substantial- fond memories. Eager to serve the Lord, the neighboring areas for the liturgy. ly. Most of all, the small church has be- Fr. Tikhon will undoubtedly be a kind Therefore Vladiko blessed Fr. Hotovitsky come more beautiful. It has been adorned guardian of the habitation and head of the to begin it at once, so that the ceremony with an iconostasis and church vessels. younger brethren in the monastic life. of the cornerstone could be delayed un- The main house has been improved in- As soon as we had recovered a bit from til midday in the hope that perhaps the side as well as outside. An addition was the trip and had started a conversation, a shower would stop and the skies would made to it for the bathroom and conve- be merciful. niences, and the neighboring outbuilding The church, however, did not turn with the kitchen was connected to it by out to be empty. When all the elder and an enclosed passage which protects those younger brethren had gotten together who pass there from catching a cold and here, the gathering turned out to be rev- from bad weather. Hot air heat has been erential; its singing was not particularly installed throughout the whole building; harmonious but was done from the heart. and it heats both buildings very well. And During the sermon Fr. Arseny boldly en- the other buildings have been improved. couraged the younger fl ock with a kindly The wing for the novice monks is divid- word. From the chronicles of the Athonite ed into small cells, with partitions made monastery, he brought it to the listen- of boards. Adorned with small icons, ers’ attention that the Lord often reveals icon lamps and liturgical books, these himself, his helping hand, in storms and cells instantly transport the visitor into winds, how he often makes the winds the monastic atmosphere, common for his messengers, and carriers of both pun- Russia, but completely unknown here in ishments and mercy; according to the America. Psalmsinger, he makes his angels spirits. A large room downstairs and one room The preacher suggested that the present upstairs of the main house have been storm, which had so unexpectedly burst turned into the children’s bedroom. Here St. Tikhon, Enlightener of North America into our program of festivity, be discerned on the top fl oor is the temporary cell of piercing rain began knocking on the win- as a testing from God, and that it is neces- Fr. Igumen, who has just been appointed dows. It began to howl in the chimneys, sary even in the moments of peace that and has arrived from Hartshorne. A monk the wind began to swirl around, the trees seem to last forever, to be prepared for all of the Glinsk Hermitage, Fr. Hieromonk began to groan . . . A few seconds, and kind of calamities, in the moments of joy Tikhon, arrived in America several years there was nothing left of the wonderful to be ready for a period of sorrow. ago, and was earlier Fr. Arseny’s prede- weather we had just been enjoying. We As it turned out, by 12 o’clock more cessor in taking care of the church in Troy, could not believe our eyes and ears, but pilgrims had come. A psalmist-teacher, from where he later moved to Hartshorne, unfortunately it was not just brief heavy G. P. Cherepnin, and a parishioner of the Indian Territories.8 This parish, far away rainfall, but a storm which was not about local church, A. Shlyanta, came from from other churches, found in Fr. Tikhon a to end, and was getting stronger and Mayfi eld together with other guests of kind pastor and guardian. In a short period stronger. We went to bed with some feel- the habitation, who were not afraid of the of time Fr. Tikhon dramatically improved ings of disappointment. Later we learned softened road and a rain shower. the church housekeeping, rebuilt and paid that the cloister turned out to be relative- The ceremony of the cornerstone-lay- for the church house, set up grape gardens ly spared — quite a few buildings were ing was as solemn as the circumstances and became wholeheartedly attached to damaged in the neighboring areas, people could allow. It began with a procession of 8. Now Oklahoma. were knocked of their feet, carriages were His Eminence, with clergy in vestments, 28 brethren and pilgrims, which safely was the favorite of everybody who had This is the second one on the monastery reached the construction site (even the known her. With her mother’s consent, cemetery. lamps were not put out by gusts of rain). she had been brought up by Batushka Eternal peace for you, angelic soul! Here a substantial part of the wooden part and Matushka Klopotovsky from Old Zhenya was a favorite of our small of the building was rising from the stone Forge, and she had been growing up with missionary family, and died with the foundation. In the front part of it, where them like their own child, bringing joy Archpastor’s prayer and with pastors bid- the temple is placed, on the prepared plat- to everyone. Just recently with her God- ding farewell to her. form, protected from the rain, Vladiko sent parents, Zhenya visited New York A bit later the vespers were served ac- served the proper order of service unhur- and some other churches and every, she cording to the rubrics. The visitors went riedly and splendidly. At a certain point charmed everyone with her tender heart back home, and Vladiko spent the night the cornerstone was laid into the prepared and her wise soul. And suddenly, in one at the holy habitation. Again early in the place. It contained a statement which was day, she passed away from croup. It is morning, the call for the midnight offi ce, read aloud, about the construction, found- hard to recall how devastated her caretak- which His Eminence attended, and after ers of the monastery cloister, its breth- ers and her own mother were. As a mem- the midnight service the hierarch attended ren, those who performed the ceremony, ber of the monastery construction com- matins. But we did not have a chance to benefactors, and so on. It ended with a mittee, Fr. Elias Klopotovsky, who often stay for the liturgy, since we had to hurry short message of remembrance about the visited this place, decided, with Vladiko’s to catch an early train. terrible time that Mother Russia is go- blessing, to bury the departed child in On this day Fr. Arseny did not have to ing through, and a prayer that the Lord St. Tikhon’s Monastery cemetery. On comfort the pilgrims; on the contrary, one would look upon this holy undertaking the very day of the foundation stone cer- would have to fi nd rejoice in the gifts of as on a humble offering of our prayer emony, the funeral procession proceeded nature, for there was not even a trace of to His Throne for the cure of our moth- from Old Forge early in the morning, and the stormy weather left. The sun caressed erland. Then we made marks on the four in spite of poor weather it managed to with soft rays, and the cloister was fi lled sides of the building according to rank reach the habitation by 4 o’clock in the with pleasant weather. But . . . the corner- — Archpastor, Fr. Arseny, Fr. Tikhon and afternoon. The box, with the coffi n, was stone had been laid, and Vladiko, having Fr. A. Boguslavsky, the member of the not brought into the house but was left said good-bye to the brethren, who saw construction committee. We even had the on the carriage. Vladiko kindly agreed to the Archpastor off with best wishes, was chance to congratulate the gathering on perform a funeral service and to see the leaving the habitation. the completion of the festivities; this was deceased Zhenya to the cemetery him- Around three o’clock in the after- done with a brief speech by Fr. Hotovitsky self. And then, the same church proces- noon we were already approaching, on and by Fr. Abbot in a more lengthy one. sion, but this time with funeral singing, the ferry, the burned remains of the New After praising and giving thanks to followed a small coffi n to the new build- York pier stations. And another hour later the Lord for everything, with the same ing, and on the same platform the funeral His Eminence was under the roof of his procession and the singing of troparions service was done, with the poignant order bishop’s residence. and magnifi cations, we returned to the for the burial of a child. And the words —Archpriest A. Hotovitsky little church, from whose steps Fr. Arseny spoke not of welcome, but of comfort and To be continued. addressed to the pilgrims in attendance a compassion. Another few minutes and homily about the goals of the orphanage. the remains were lowered into the grave. The response was a generous donation of our guests — for which, O God, save Offi cial them! We had a meal according to the ru- Parish Council Con rmations brics. Before the procession to the dining hall, we gathered in the church, received All Saints Church -- Olyphant, Pa. the hierarch’s blessing, and, preceding Christ the Savior Church -- Harrisburg, Pa. him, we entered in to receive the meal. Another monk was reading the life of the Holy Annunciation Church -- Berwick, Pa. venerable Patapius and selected readings Holy Apostles Mission -- Mechanicsburg, Pa. from St. John Chrysostom. The meal was Holy Resurrection Church -- Wilkes-Barre, Pa. eaten in silence. For me this was some- Holy Trinity Church -- Catasauqua, Pa. thing new, and I carried away a deep im- St. Basil’s Church -- Simpson, Pa. pression from this monastery meal! St. John the Baptist Church -- Nanticoke, Pa. By evening, the joyful celebration St. John the Baptist Church -- Edwardsville, Pa. had been replaced by the sorrowful ser- St. Michael the Archangel Church -- Wilmington, Del. vice of the burial of the child Evgenia, St. Nicholas Church -- Bethlehem, Pa. who had recently died in the neighboring St. Stephen’s Cathedral -- Philadelphia, Pa. Old Forge parish. This little one, Evgenia,

29 esus Christ ascended to heaven forty days after His resurrection and, We Believe Jtherefore the Feast of Ascension always comes on a Thursday forty days after the Paschal Feast. The Ascension of The Symbol of the Faith -- The Creed our Lord is more than a movement from one place to another. Its true meaning is that our Lord has returned to His Eternal Part VII Father bearing His human nature. Thus, He lifted up the whole human nature into Article VI a most Intimate and glorious participation in the Eternal Life. Not only is human nature delivered from the power of sin and evil, it is also glorifi ed. This glorifi ed life is accessible to all who follow in the Way; living in the life of the Lord, in His Body, the Church. Jesus Christ ascends to heaven. Yet, He is with us until the end of time. Then, He will return in glory to establish His eternal Kingdom. Before He left He promised His disciples to send the Comforter, the Holy Spirit. The descent of the Holy Spirit was thus made possible through Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who became man. He sanctifi ed and glorifi ed human nature. The event of the Descent of the Holy Spirit is described in the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 24 and in the Acts, Chapter 1, “And while staying with them He charged them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, ‘You heard from me . . . You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and Samaria, and to the end of the earth’” (Acts 1:4 and 8). The disciples were told to preach all they had seen, heard, and learned. “Go therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). “And when He had said this, as they were looking on, He was lifted up, and a cloud took Him out of their sight. And while they were gazing into heaven as He went, “And ascended into the heavens and sits at the behold, two men stood by them in white right hand of the Father” robes, and said, ‘Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw Him go into heaven’” (Acts 1:9-11).

The Incarnation of the Son of God was an act of humility. The Son of God

30 J was born as a helpless child, Jesus, into the Faith” we further say, “and sits at the 3. When Christ ascended into heaven, a poor and humble life, recognized by right hand of the Father.” These words are did He ascend in His body? Explain. only a few people. Christ had to suffer not to be taken literally, for God is Spirit, 4. Are we to take the words, “He sits at from the persecution and pursuit of and there is no left or right side for God. the right hand of the Father” literally? King Herod. But His Ascension was the But to sit on the right side of God is a 5. What does “sitting at the right hand fulfi llment of His glorifi cation. On the way of saying that Jesus Christ, both as of the Father” mean? day we commemorate this event we sing, Son of God and Son of Man has the same 6. What are we assured by the “Thou hast ascended in glory, O Christ divine power, and divine glory as God Ascension of our Lord? our God.” the Father. In other words, Jesus Christ is --Archpriest Vladimir Borichevsky In the way of His life, Christ has shown equal to God the Father. to us the way of our life in Christ. In the Archpriest Vladimir, 1919-1990, was the way of His Birth, Suffering, and Death, Questions for Article VI ' rst Orthodox U.S. Army chaplain. Among Christ has shown us the way of humility his many achievements was that he served and sacrifi ce which makes possible the 1. Describe in your own words the as dean of St. Tikhon’s Seminary, and fulfi llment of our life in Christ. We can Ascension of our Lord. composed the liturgical service in honor live in the certain hope of resurrection and 2. What was the meaning of the of St. Herman of Alaska, the ' rst American of glorifi cation in His Eternal Kingdom. Ascension of our Lord on the fortieth Orthodox saint. In the sixth article of the “Symbol of day?

His Beatitude Metropolitan Herman and Orthodox Christians for Life request the honour of you presence for  e Orthodox Witness on the Sanctity of Human Life at the 2006 March for Life Monday, January 23, 2006

e Ellipse, Washington, D.C.

RSVP by January 14, 2006 Orthodox Christians for Life P.O. Box 805, Melville, NY 11747

31 OCEC Presents Christian Education Workshop for Seminarians and Wives

he Orthodox Christian Education school teachers,” commented Michelle educators, presented by Carole Buleza, Commission (O.C.E.C.) presented Soucek, a seminarian’s wife. Chair of the AOCA’s Dept. of Christian Ta Christian Education Workshop The workshop began with an Ed., who also serves as an OCEC teacher for over sixty seminarians and their wives “Overview of Orthodoxy” for Christian trainer. Participants learned how to pres- at St. Tikhon’s Seminary on Saturday, November 19, 2005. The day-long workshop on teacher training was a collab- orative effort between the seminary com- munity and OCEC representatives from the O.C.A. and the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese (A.O.C.A.) The conference was coordinated by Archpriest Michael G. Dahulich, dean of the semi-

The event was designed to educate seminarians and seminarian wives in basic teaching skills, curricu- Khouria Anna Hughes, Matushka Myra Kovalak, Carole Buleza, Gregory Hatrak lum development, church school setup, and resource use for parish education programs. Participants learned valuable skills for future service as clergy, clergy wives, and ministry workers nary; Matushka Myra Kovalak, member of the OCA’s Department of Christian Education (DCE) and OCEC teacher trainer; and Tamara Cowan, OCA- Comparing notes on lesson planning DCE member and seminarian’s wife. Sponsorship was also provided by the Diocese of Eastern Pa. (DEPA). The event, titled “Educating Ourselves and Our Children in Godliness,” was de- signed to educate seminarians and semi- narian wives in basic teaching skills, cur- riculum development, church school set- up, and resource use for parish education programs. Participants learned valuable skills for future service as clergy, clergy wives, and ministry workers. “This train- ing should be required for all priests, church school directors, and church Carole Buleza discusses OCEC material 32 ent the basic tenets of our Faith to chil- and Carole Buleza, respectively. After lunch in the seminary dining dren of various age groups. The seminarians and their wives re- hall, Khouria Anna Hughes (AOCA and The participants then dispersed into sponded enthusiastically to the morning’s OCEC teacher trainer) led a session enti- breakout groups. Each group attended program. Khouria Sophie Majmudar, a tled “Introduction to Teaching.” She used brief sessions on “Surfi ng the Orthodox seminarian’s wife, commented, “The best several interactive group exercises to il- Net,” “Planning Educational Programs part about the workshop for me was get- lustrate methods for teaching different and Curriculum,” and “Educational ting an outline of what children should types of learners. Second-year seminarian Materials and Resources.” These sessions know about Orthodoxy at different ages. Stephen Vernak said, “The presentation were led by Matthew Hatrak (member of It is a good guide for gathering curricu- was so effective that I thought I would try DEPA-DCA), Matushka Myra Kovalak, lum.” it during a class presentation to seminar- ians. It works just as well on them as she said it would on children. It is a lesson I will bring with me wherever I end up, a real keeper.” Fr. Michael Dahulich, who partici- pated in the workshop as well, applauded the event: “It was one of the most suc- cessful encounters of its kind I have ever attended. The event was very well orga- nized, the speakers were truly outstand- ing, the material presented was both edu- cational and easily understandable, and the handouts, exercises and resource links were invaluable. That it was a combined Matushka Myra works with breakout groups preparing lesson plans venture between the OCA and the AOCA made it all the more important; work such as this can only help to bring about the unity of our Church in this country that is so needed and wanted.” It was a great event for all involved. Students and wives left feeling better pre- pared for their future roles as teachers of the Truth. The spirit of the day was faith- ful to these words of St. Theophan the Recluse: “Of all holy works, the educa- tion of children is the most holy.” —Tamara Cowan Students demonstrate learning techniques for Old Testament study

33 Origen: the Denier of Human Freedom

Part II

Jerome’s Letter to Avitus on The First Principles

t. Jerome (Eusebius Hieronymus) wanted to lead the ascetic life and he according to modern standards. In other (c. 347-c.420), is ranked as one would eventually go with them to the words he is accurate, but not always so Sof the four major doctors of the Holy Land to establish monasteries there, polite. Western Church and the most scholarly of under his supervision. His literary output The following translation of the Letter the Latin Fathers. He was born of well- and correspondence are too vast to men- to Avitus is from the Nicene and Post- off parents near Aquileia, which is at the tion here. Nicene Fathers (NPNF), Series 2, volume top of the Adriatic Sea and not far from St. Jerome wasn’t without his critics. 6.1 the northeastern side of the Italian pen- He had a sharp pen, and a sharp tongue. —Archimandrite Jerome (Newville) insula. His schooling began at home and He said what he thought. At fi rst he was continued at Rome when he was 12. His infl uenced by Origen — then he began to vitus to whom this letter is addressed special interest was the Latin classics. see the problems that he found, and he Ais probably the same person who per- He was baptized about 366, probably by said so. The letter to Avitus, which we suaded Jerome to write to Salvina (see Pope Liberius. For the next 20 years he publish here, has preserved many quota- Letter 79). The occasion of writing is as travelled widely in the West and the East. tions from Origen’s On First Principles follows. Ten years previously (that is to In 375 he began a two-year period as a which otherwise would have been lost in say in A.D. 399 or 400) Pammachius had hermit in the Syrian desert, which without the course of time. That’s why the letter is asked Jerome to supply him with a cor- a spiritual guide was a trying experience. so valuable. rect version of Origen’s First Principles From a Jewish convert he learned Hebrew As for Origen’s teaching and writ- to enable him to detect the variations in- and also took up the study of the Greek ing, we should point out, as Fr. John troduced by Rufi nus into his translation. language. From 379 to 382 we fi nd him Meyendorff used to do for his students, This Jerome willingly did (see Letters 83 in Constantinople where he perfected his that the Alexandrian sage had two styles and 84) but when the work in its integrity Greek and got to know such luminaries of teaching and writing: one for an inner was read by Pammachius he thought it so as Gregory of Nazianzus and Gregory of circle and one for the larger public. Read erroneous in teaching that he determined Nyssa. He was present at the Council of his Against Celsus and you will fi nd noth- not to circulate it. However, “a certain Constantinople in 381. ing unconventional, all very Orthodox. brother” talked him into lending the ms. During a second period in Rome, 382- You would be ready to put the Nihil to him for a short time; and then, when 385, he was secretary to Pope Damasus. Obstat (nothing stands in the way) on the he had it in his hands, had a hasty and in- Besides the commentaries which he au- book with no trouble at all. Read the First correct transcript made, which he imme- thored there, he began his revision of Principles and you should be up in arms diately published much to the annoyance the Old Latin version of the Bible which as Demetrius of Alexandria, his bishop, of Pammachius. When a copy of this fell would lead to his Vulgate, the offi cial was when it was fi rst published. Anyway, 1. SpeciN cally our text is taken from version 4 of a CD- Bible of the Western Church. In Rome Jerome tells us about it in a way only he ROM edition (from Calvin College in Michigan) of the online version of the NPNF found at Christian Classics he also met several affl uent women who can, and that is defi nitely not scholarly, Ethereal Library (www.ccel.org). 34 into the hands of Avitus it much perplexed is not the truth but compared with us who is now a human being may in another him and he seems to have appealed to cannot receive the truth of the almighty world become a demon, while one who Jerome for an explanation. This the latter Father seems a fi gure of the truth so that by reason of his negligence is now a de- now gives, forwarding at the same time we perceive the majesty and magnitude of mon may hereafter be placed in a more an authentic edition of his version of the the greater in the less, the Father’s glory material body and thus become a human First Principles. The date of the letter is limited in the Son; that God the Father is being. So far does he carry this transform- A.D. 409 or 410. a light incomprehensible and that Christ ing process that on his theory an archangel compared with him is but a minute bright- may become the devil and the devil in turn The Letter to Avitus ness, although by reason of our incapacity be changed back into an archangel. “Such to us he appears a great one. The Father as have wavered or faltered but have not 1. About ten years ago that saintly and the Son are compared to two statues, altogether fallen shall be made subject, man Pammachius sent me a copy of a a larger one and a small; the fi rst fi lling for rule and government and guidance, to certain person’s rendering, or rather mis- the world and being somehow invisible better things — to principalities and pow- rendering, of Origen’s First Principles; through its size, the second cognisable by ers, to thrones and dominations”; and of with a request that in a Latin version I the eyes of men. God the Father omnipo- these perhaps another human race will be should give the true sense of the Greek tent the writer terms good and of perfect formed, when in the words of Isaiah there and should set down the writer’s words goodness; but of the Son he says: “He is shall be ‘new heavens and a new earth.’ for good or for evil without bias in either not good but an emanation and likeness But such as have not deserved to return direction. When I did as he wished and of goodness; not good absolutely but through humanity to their former estate sent him the book, he was shocked to only with a qualifi cation, as ‘the good shall become the devil and his angels, read it and locked it up in his desk lest shepherd’ and the like.” The Holy Spirit demons of the worst sort; and according being circulated it might wound the souls he places after the Father and the Son as to what they have done shall have spe- of many. However, a certain brother, who third in dignity and honor. And while he cial duties assigned to them in particular had “a zeal for God but not according declares that he does not know whether worlds.” Moreover, the very demons and to knowledge,” asked for a loan of the the Holy Spirit is created or uncreated, he rulers of darkness in any world or worlds, manuscript that he might read it; and, as has later on given his own opinion that if they are willing to turn to better things, he promised to return it without delay, except God the Father alone there is noth- may become human beings and so come Pammachius, thinking no harm could ing uncreated. “The Son,” he states, “is back to their fi rst beginning. That is to happen in so short a time, unsuspectingly inferior to the Father, inasmuch as He is say, after they have borne the discipline consented. Right away, he who had bor- second and the Father fi rst; and the Holy of punishment and torture for a longer or rowed the book to read, with the aid of Spirit which dwells in all the saints is a shorter time in human bodies, they may scribes copied the whole of it and gave it inferior to the Son. In the same way the again reach the angelic pinnacles from back much sooner than he had promised. power of the Father is greater than that of which they have fallen. Hence it may be Then with the same rashness or — to use the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Likewise shown that we men may change into any a less severe term — thoughtlessness he the power of the Son is greater than that other reasonable beings, and that not once made bad worse by confi ding to others of the Holy Spirit, and as a consequence only or on emergency but time after time; what he had thus stolen. Moreover, since the Holy Spirit in its turn has greater vir- we and angels shall become demons if we a bulky treatise on an obscure subject is tue than other things called holy.” neglect our duty; and demons, if they will diffi cult to reproduce with accuracy, es- 3. Then, when he comes to deal with take to themselves virtues, may attain to pecially if it has to be taken down secret- rational creatures and to describe their the rank of angels. ly and in a hurry, order and sense were lapse into earthly bodies as due to their 4. Bodily substances too are to pass sacrifi ced in several passages. Whence it own negligence, he goes on to say: “Surely away utterly or else at the end of all things comes, my dear Avitus, that you ask me it argues great negligence and sloth for a will become highly rarifi ed like the sky to send you a copy of my version as made soul so far to empty itself as to fall into and ether and other subtle bodies. It is for Pammachius and not for the public, a sin and allow itself to be tied to the mate- clear that these principles must affect the garbled edition of which has been pub- rial body of an unreasoning brute”; and in writer’s view of the resurrection. The sun lished by the aforesaid brother. a subsequent passage: “These reasonings also and the moon and the rest of the con- 2. Take then what you have asked for; induce me to suppose that it is by their stellations are alive. Nay more; as we men but know that there are countless things in own free act that some are numbered with by reason of our sins are enveloped in the book to be abhorred, and that, as the God’s saints and servants, and that it was bodies material and sluggish; so the lights Lord says, you will have to walk among through their own fault that others fell of heaven have for like reasons received scorpions and serpents. It begins by say- from holiness into such negligence that bodies more or less luminous, and demons ing that Christ was made God’s son not they were changed into forces of an oppo- have been for more serious faults clothed born; that God the Father, as He is by na- site kind.” He maintains that after every with starry frames. This, he argues, is the ture invisible, is invisible even to the Son; end a fresh beginning springs forth and an view of the apostle who writes: — “the that the Son, who is the likeness of the in- end from each beginning, and that whole- creation has been subjected to vanity and visible Father, compared with the Father sale variation is possible; so that one who Continued on the next page 35 Origen Continued from page 35 shall be delivered for the revealing of the sons of God.” That it may not be sup- posed that I am imputing to him ideas of my own I shall give his actual words. “At the end and consummation of the world,” he writes, “when souls and beings en- dowed with reason shall be released from prison by the Lord, they will move slowly or fl y quickly according as they have pre- viously been slothful or energetic. And as all of them have free will and are free to choose virtue or vice, those who choose the latter will be much worse off than they now are. But those who choose the former will improve their condition. Their move- ments and decisions in this direction or in that will determine their various futures; whether, that is, angels are to become men or demons, and whether demons are to become men or angels.” Then after adducing various arguments in support of his thesis and maintaining that while not incapable of virtue the devil has yet not chosen to be virtuous, he has fi nally reasoned with much diffuseness that an angel, a human soul, and a demon — all according to him of one nature but of dif- ferent wills — may in punishment for great negligence or folly be transformed into brutes. Moreover, to avoid the agony of punishment and the burning fl ame the more sensitive may choose to become low organisms, to dwell in water, to assume the shape of this or that animal; so that we have reason to fear a metamorphosis not only into four-footed things but even into fi shes. Then, lest he should be held guilty St. Jerome of maintaining with Pythagoras the trans- or whether one world shall never wholly it is only in this that death can operate.” migration of souls, he winds up the wick- be indistinguishable from another. And And a little farther on: “if these things are ed reasoning with which he has wounded again a little farther on he writes: “if, as not contrary to the faith, it may be that his reader by saying: “I must not be taken the course of the discussion makes neces- we shall some day live in a disembodied to make dogmas of these things; they are sary, all things can live without body, all state. Moreover, if only he is fully sub- only thrown out as conjectures to show bodily existence shall be swallowed up ject to Christ who is disembodied, and if that they are not altogether overlooked.” and that which once has been made out all must be made subject to Him, we too 5. In his second book he maintains of nothing shall again be reduced to noth- shall lose our bodies when we become a plurality of worlds; not, however, as ing. And yet a time will come when its fully subject to Him.” And in the same Epicurus taught, many like ones existing use will be once more necessary.” And in passage: “if all are to be made subject to at once, but a new one beginning each the same context: “but if, as reason and God, all shall lay aside their bodies; and time that the old comes to an end. There the authority of scripture show, this cor- then all bodily existence shall be brought was a world before this world of ours, and ruptible shall put on incorruption and this to nought. But if through the fall of rea- after it there will be fi rst one and then an- mortal shall put on immortality, death sonable beings it is a second time required other and so on in regular succession. He shall be swallowed up in victory and cor- it will reappear. For God has left souls to is in doubt whether one world shall be so ruption in incorruption. And it may be that strive and struggle, to teach them that full completely similar to another as to leave all bodily existence shall be removed, for and complete victory is to be attained not no room for any difference between them, 36 by their own efforts but by His grace. And heavenly bodies we must make a similar its object will in another world become a so to my mind worlds vary with the sins acknowledgment. The soul of the sun — vessel made to dishonor; and contrariwise which cause them, and those are exploded or whatever else you like to call it — does a vessel which has from a previous fault theories which maintain that all worlds are not date its existence from the creation been condemned to dishonor will, if it alike.” And again: “three conjectures oc- of the world; it already existed before it accepts correction in this present life, be- cur to me with regard to the end; it is for entered its shining and glowing body. So come in the new creation a vessel ‘sanc- the reader to determine which is nearest also with the moon and stars. From ante- tifi ed and meet for the Master’s use and to the truth. For either we shall be bodi- cedent causes they have been made sub- prepared unto every good work.’” And less when, being made subject to Christ, ject to vanity not willingly but for future he immediately goes on to say: “I believe we shall be made subject to God and He reward, and are forced to do not their own that men who begin with small faults may shall be all in all; or as things made sub- will but the creator’s who has assigned to become so hardened in wickedness that, ject to Christ shall be with Christ Himself them their several spheres.” if they do not repent and turn to better made subject to God and brought under 7. Hellfi re, moreover, and the torments things, they must become inhuman ener- one law, so all substance shall be refi ned with which holy scripture threatens sinners gies; and contrariwise that hostile and de- into its most perfect form and rarifi ed into he explains not as external punishments monic beings may in course of time so far ether which is a pure and uncompounded but as the pangs of guilty consciences heal their wounds and check the current essence; or else the sphere which I have when by God’s power the memory of our of their former sins that they may attain called motionless and all that it contains transgressions is set before our eyes. “The to the abode of the perfect. As I have of- will be dissolved into nothing, and the whole crop of our sins grows up afresh ten said, in those countless and unceasing sphere in which the antizone itself is con- from seeds which remain in the soul, and worlds in which the soul lives and has its tained shall be called ‘good ground,’ and all our dishonorable and undutiful acts being some grow worse and worse until that other sphere which in its revolution are again pictured before our gaze. Thus they reach the lowest depths of degrada- surrounds the earth and goes by the name it is the fi re of conscience and the stings tion; while others in those lowest depths of heaven shall be reserved for the abode of remorse which torture the mind as it grow better and better until they reach of the saints.” looks back on former self-indulgence.” the perfection of virtue.” Thus he tries to 6. In speaking thus does he not most And again: “but perhaps this coarse and show that men, or rather their souls, may clearly follow the error of the heathen and earthly body ought to be described as mist become demons; and that demons in turn foist upon the simple faith of Christians and darkness; for at the end of this world may be restored to the rank of angels. In the ravings of philosophy? In the same and when it becomes necessary to pass the same book he writes: “this too must book he writes: “it remains that God is into another, the like darkness will lead be considered; why the human soul is invisible. But if He is by nature invisible, to the like physical birth.” In speaking diversely acted upon now by infl uences He must be so even to the Savior.” And thus he clearly pleads for the transmigra- of one kind and now by infl uences of an- lower down: “no soul which has descend- tion of souls as taught by Pythagoras and other.” And he surmises that this is due ed into a human body has borne upon it Plato. And at the end of the second book to conduct which has preceded birth. It is so true an impress of its previous charac- in dealing with our perfection he has said: for this, he argues, that John leaps in his ter as Christ’s soul of which He says: ‘no “When we shall have made such progress mother’s womb when at Mary’s salutation man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of as not only to cease to be fl esh or body Elizabeth declares herself unworthy of myself.’” And in another place: “we must but perhaps also to cease to be souls, our her notice. And he immediately subjoins: carefully consider whether souls, when perfect intelligence and perception, un- “on the other hand infants that are hardly they have won salvation and have at- dimmed with any mist of passion, will weaned are possessed with evil spirits and tained to the blessed life, may not cease to discern reasonable and intelligible sub- become diviners and soothsayers; indeed, be souls. For as the Lord and Savior came stances face to face.” some are indwelt from their earliest years to seek and to save that which was lost 8. In the third book the following with the spirit of a python. Now as they that it might cease to be lost; so the lost faulty statements are contained. “If we have done nothing to bring upon them- soul which the Lord came to save, when once admit that, when one vessel is made selves these visitations, one who holds saved, will cease to be a soul. We must to honor and another to dishonor, this is that nothing happens without God’s per- ask ourselves whether, as the lost was not due to antecedent causes; why may we mission, and that all things are governed lost once and again will not be, the soul not revert to the mystery of the soul and by His justice, cannot suppose that God’s likewise may have been and again may allow that it is loved in one and hated in providence has abandoned them without be not a soul.” And after a good many re- another because of its past actions, before good reason.” marks upon the soul he brings in the fol- in Jacob it becomes a supplanter and be- 9. Again, of the world he writes thus: lowing, “onus or intelligence by falling fore in Esau it is supplanted?” And again: “The belief commends itself to me that becomes a soul; and by acquiring virtue “the fact that souls are made some to hon- there was a world before this world and this will become intelligence again. This or and some to dishonor is to be explained that after it there will be another. Do you at least is a fair inference from the case of by their previous history.” And in the wish to know that after the decay of this Esau who for his old sins is condemned same place: “on this hypothesis of mine a world there will be a new one? Hear the to lead a lower life. And concerning the vessel made to honor which fails to fulfi ll Continued on the next page 37 Origen the task of lending a hand to those who thus. Reasonable and incorporeal beings Continued from page 37 fall.” Again he writes: “whence it follows are the highest of God’s creatures, for words of Isaiah: ‘the new heavens and that these different movements result in not being clothed with bodies they are the new earth which I will make shall re- the creation of different worlds; and that not the slaves of corruption. Since where main before me.’ Do you wish to know this world of ours will be succeeded by there are bodies, there corruption is sure that before the making of this world there one quite unlike it. Now, as regards this to be found. But hereafter ‘the creation have previously been others? Listen to the falling and rising, this rewarding of vir- shall be delivered from the bondage of Preacher who says: ‘the thing which hath tue and punishment of vice, whether they corruption,’ and then men shall receive been, it is that which shall be; and that take place in the past, present, or future, the glory of the children of God and God which is done is that which shall be done: God, the creator, can alone apportion des- shall be all in all.” And in the same pas- and there is no new thing under the sun. ert and make all things converge to one sage he writes: “that the fi nal state will be Is there anything whereof it may be said, end. For He only knows why He allows an incorporeal one is rendered credible by See, this is new? it hath been already of some to follow their own inclination and the words of our Savior’s prayer: ‘as thou, old time, which was before us.’ A passage to descend from the higher planes to the Father, art in me and I in thee, that they which proves not only that other worlds lowest; and why He visits others and giv- also may be one in us.’ For we ought to have been but that other worlds shall be; realize what God is and what the Savior not, however, simultaneously and side For He only knows will fi nally be, and how the likeness to by side but one after another.” And he the Father and the Son here promised to immediately adds: “I hold that heaven why He allows some the Saints consists in this, that as They is the abode of the deity, the true place are one in Themselves so we shall be one of rest; and that it was there that reason- to follow their own in Them. For if in the end the life of the able creatures enjoyed their ancient bliss, inclination and to Saints is to be assimilated to the life of before, coming down to a lower plane God, we must either admit that the Lord and exchanging the invisible for the vis- descend from the higher of the universe is clothed with a body and ible, they fell to the earth and came to that he is enveloped in matter as we are in need material bodies. Now that they have planes to the lowest; fl esh; or, if it is unbecoming to suppose fallen, God the creator has made for them and why He visits others this, especially in persons who have but bodies suitable to their surroundings; and small clues from which to infer God’s has fashioned this visible world, and has and giving them His majesty and to guess at the glory of His sent into it ministers to ensure the salva- innate and transcendent nature, we are tion and correction of the fallen. Of these hand draws them back reduced to the following dilemma. Either ministers some have held assigned posi- to their former state and we shall always have bodies and in that tions and have been subject to the world’s case must despair of ever being like God; necessary laws; while others have intel- places them once more or, if the blessedness of the life of God ligently performed duties laid upon them is really promised to us, the conditions of in times and seasons determined by God’s in heaven His life must be the conditions of ours.” plan. To the former class belong the sun, 11. These passages prove what his moon, and stars called by the apostle ‘the ing them His hand draws them back to view is regarding the resurrection. For he creation’; and these have had allotted to their former state and places them once evidently maintains that all bodies will them the heights of heaven. Now the cre- more in heaven.” perish and that we shall be incorporeal as, ation is subjected to vanity because it is 10. In discussing the end of the world according to him, we were before we re- encased in material bodies and visible to he has made use of the following lan- ceived our present bodies. Again when he the eye. And yet it is ‘made subject to van- guage. “Since, as I have often said, a new comes to argue for a variety of worlds and ity not willingly but by reason of him who beginning springs from the end, it may be to maintain that angels will become de- hath subjected the same in hope.’ Others asked whether bodies will then continue mons, demons either angels or men, and again of the second class, at particular to exist, or whether, when they have been men in their turn demons; in a word that places and times known to their Maker annihilated, we shall live without bodies everything will be turned into something only, we believe to be His angels sent to and be incorporeal as we know God to else, he thus sums up his own opinion: steer the world.” A little farther on he says: be. Now there can be no doubt but that, “no doubt, after an interval matter will ex- “the affairs of the world are so ordered by if bodies or, as the apostle calls them, vis- ist afresh and bodies will be formed and Providence that while some angels fall ible things, belong only to our sensible a different world will be created to meet from heaven others freely glide down to world, the life of the disembodied will the varying wills of reasonable beings earth. The former are hurled down against be incorporeal.” And a little farther on: who, having forfeited the perfect bliss their will; the latter descend from choice “when the apostle writes, ‘the creation which continues to the end, have gradu- alone. The former are forced to continue shall be delivered from the bondage of ally fallen into so great wickedness as to in a distasteful service for a fi xed pe- corruption into the liberty of the glory of change their nature and refuse to keep riod; the latter spontaneously embrace the children of God,’ I explain his words their fi rst estate of unalloyed blessed- 38 ness. Many reasonable beings, it is right ment above us likewise there are souls on gospel which in the apocalypse of John to say, keep it until a second, a third, and their way from our world to higher ones, is called everlasting to distinguish it from a fourth world, and give God no ground and others who, while they have fallen ours which is only temporal, set forth in a for changing their condition. Others dete- from heaven, have not sinned so griev- world that shall pass away. Now if we ex- riorate so little that they seem to have lost ously as to be thrust down to earth.” He tend our inquiry to the passion of our Lord hardly anything, and others again have to thus tries to prove that the fi rmament, that and Savior, it may indeed be overbold to be hurled headlong into the abyss. God is the sky, is hell compared with heaven; suppose that He will suffer in heaven; yet who orders all things alone knows how to and that this earth is hell compared with if there is spiritual wickedness in heav- use each class according to its deserts in a the fi rmament; and again that our world enly places and if we confess without a suitable sphere; for He only understands is heaven to hell. Or in other words what blush that the Lord has once been cruci- opportunities and motives and the course is hell to some is heaven to others. And fi ed to destroy those things which He has in which the world must be steered. Thus not content with saying this he goes on: destroyed by His passion; why need we one who has borne away the palm for “at the end of all things when we shall fear to imagine a like occurrence in the wickedness and has sunk into the low- est degradation will in the world which is hereafter to be fashioned be made a devil, a kind of fi rst fruits of the Lord’s handi- He thus tries to prove that the  rma- work, to be a laughing stock to the angels ment, that is the sky, is hell compared who have lost their fi rst virtue.” What is this but to argue that the sinful men of this with heaven; and that this earth is hell world may become a devil and demons in compared with the  rmament; and another; and contrariwise that those who again that our world is heaven to hell are now demons may hereafter become either men or angels? And after a lengthy discussion in which he maintains that all corporeal creatures must exchange their return to the heavenly Jerusalem the hos- upper world in the fullness of time, so that material for subtle and spiritual bodies tile powers shall declare war against the the nations of all realms shall be saved by and that all substance must become one people of God, to breathe and exercise a passion of Christ?” pure and inconceivably bright body, of their valor and strengthen their resolve. 14. Here is another blasphemy which which the human mind can at present For this they cannot have until they have he has spoken of the Son. “Assuming that form no conception, he winds up thus: “ faced and foiled their foes; of whom we the Son knows the Father, it would seem ‘God shall be all in all’; that is to say, all read in the book of Numbers that they are that by this knowledge He can compre- bodily existence shall be made as perfect overcome by reason, discipline, and tacti- hend Him as much as a craftsman can as possible; it shall be brought into the cal skill.” comprehend the rules of his art. And, divine essence, than which there is none 13. After saying that according to the doubtless, if the Father is in the Son, He is better.” apocalypse of John “the everlasting gos- also comprehended by Him in whom He 12. In the fourth and last book of his pel” which shall be revealed in heaven is. But if we mean by comprehension not work the following passages deserve the as much surpasses our gospel as Christ’s merely that the knower takes a thing in church’s condemnation. “It may be that preaching does the sacraments of the an- by perception and insight but that he con- as, when men die in this world by the sep- cient law, he has asserted what it is sac- tains it within himself by virtue of a spe- aration of soul and body, they are allotted rilegious even to think; that Christ will cial faculty; in this sense we cannot say different positions in hell according to the once more suffer in the sky for the salva- that the Son comprehends the Father. For difference in their works; so when angels tion of demons. And although he has not the Father comprehends all things, and of die, out of the system of the heavenly expressly said it, it is yet implied in his these the Son is one; therefore, He com- Jerusalem, they come down to this world words that as for men God became man prehends the Son.” And to show us rea- as a hell and are placed on earth accord- to set men free, so for the salvation of sons why, while the Father comprehends ing to their deserts.” And again: “as we demons when He comes to deliver them the Son, the Son cannot comprehend the have compared the souls which pass from He will become a demon. To show that Father, he adds: “the curious reader may this world to hell with those which as they this is no gloss of mine, I must give his inquire whether the Father knows Himself come from heaven to us are in a manner own words: “As Christ,” he writes, “has in the same way that the Son knows Him. dead; so we must carefully inquire wheth- fulfi lled the shadow of the law by the But if he recalls the words: ‘the Father er this is true of all souls without excep- shadow of the gospel, and as all law is who sent me is greater than I,’ he will al- tion. For in that case souls born on earth a pattern and shadow of things done in low that they must be universally true and when they desire better things rise out of heaven, we must inquire whether we are will admit that, in knowledge as in every- hell and assume human bodies or when justifi ed in supposing that even the heav- thing else, the Father is greater than the they desire worse things come down to enly law and the rites of the celestial wor- Son, and knows Himself more perfectly us from better worlds; and in the fi rma- ship are still incomplete and need the true Continued on page 71 39 40 40 41 Holy Trinity Church Welcomes Missionaries

he Sakellariou Family, Orthodox Christian Mission Center mission- Taries in Albania, took a whirlwind tour of the United States as they visited eight parishes of various jurisdictions across the country during August and September. On September 8, 2005, Father Nicholas J. Solak (pastor) and Holy Trinity Orthodox Church of Strouds-burg, Pa. were privileged to host the family. The evening began with a moleben cele- brated by our diocesan bishop, His Grace Bishop TIKHON of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, and attended by approximately 75 men, women and chil- dren. The crowd was mainly comprised of parishioners from Holy Trinity Church, Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church (also of Stroudsburg) with their pastor, Father Theodore Petrides, as well as a group of seminarians from St. Tikhon’s Seminary who accompanied the bishop. Panayiotis and Shannon Sakellariou with Sophia and Bishop Tikhon Following the service, the faithful gathered in the church hall. A dinner con- with a daughter Sophia Philothei, born ning English language movie nights, and sisting of a variety of Slavic and Greek November 13, 2004 (who attended with conducting a one-week English language foods, including kielbasi and sauerkraut, her parents and provided joy to many pa- review before the beginning of each aca- pierohi, spanikopita, and pastitchio were rishioners). demic year. prepared by parishioners from the two Panayiotis explained that when Shannon spoke of her background churches. Albania’s Communist regime ended in as a high school English teacher in After the meal, Shannon and Pan- 1991 and religious activities were allowed Chicago, and the founding and directing ayiotis Sakellariou gave a presentation again, there were only a few priests living of the Shkolla Protagonistët (Protagonists about their missionary efforts in Tirana, in the country. However, since the open- School) in Tirana. Religion is not taught Albania, where they have been serving ing of the Theological Academy in 1992 as part of the curriculum, but a voluntary since autumn of 2002. Shannon came more than 120 men have been ordained as after-school catechism class is offered, as an OCMC missionary to open an priests. Currently, the school has 50 stu- and the school celebrates the birth of Albanian-American primary school under dents. As it expanded from a three-year Jesus with an annual Christmas program. the direction of His Beatitude, Archbishop to a four-year program and language re- The school is open to students of all reli- ANASTASIOS; and Panayiotis came to quirements have changed, Panayiotis has gions, and for some, this is their fi rst true work as an independent missionary from worked to develop both the textbook col- exposure to the Orthodox Christian faith. Greece (and later became an OCMC mis- lection and the library offerings in English, Panayiotis and Shannon are also in- sionary in July of 2004), to teach English and to establish a 4-year sequenced cur- volved in youth ministries through teach- and computer skills at the Resurrection riculum with standardized syllabi and se- ing English classes at the Orthodox Youth of Christ Theological Academy in St. mester fi nal exams. Furthermore, he has Center, helping with the girls’ summer Vlash. Panayiotis and Shannon met that developed relationships with his students camp program, and participating in the fall and married a year later on November and the rest of the St. Vlash community university’s Orthodox fellowship and 2, 2003, and have since been blessed through hosting lunches in Tirana, plan- Continued on page 52 42 35th Annual Fall Lecture Series “Back to Basics: How to Make Rediscovering Teachings of our Orthodox Faith” Our Parishes Grow Gr Very Rev. Constantine Nasr Pastor of Saint Elijah Orthodox Church, Oklahoma City, Okla., and Dean of the Southwest Region of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese

Editor’s note: A ninth-generation Orthodox be nice to be in a place where people love parked in front of? An adult bookstore. priest, Father Constantine guided his the Bible, where people read the Bible That’s the kind of exposure I dreaded. small parish of 50 faithful as it increased and not only kiss the Bible. So I came to Oklahoma City to St. in size 24-fold and also gave birth to two By the grace of God the metropolitan Elijah Church. The majority of St. Elijah mission parishes. Fr. Constantine offered said, “You are going to Oklahoma City.” is made up of second and third generation the fruits of his experience to the listeners We are supposed to be and we should Southern Lebanese. I had a very diffi cult at the annual lecture series. always be obedient to our fathers, be- time with their pastor, I came to a place cause we are soldiers. Whether I like it where father does not speak to a son and our Eminence, Metropolitan Her- or not I had to go to Oklahoma City. So daughter doesn’t relate to her father. They man, Your Grace, Bishop Tikhon, I went to Oklahoma City and I tell you Continued on the next page Ybrothers, the clergy, Fr. Michael, what — there were Bibles on every cor- Fr. John, Fr. Dan, all of you my family in ner, and hellfi re and damnation. All these the Lord. I want to thank you for the hos- were kinds of challenges. Do you know pitality and the spirit of love which Jesus what I found out in Oklahoma City? It is has left us. The last thing he said was “Go ranked number fi ve in the United States in and teach, go and teach all nations.” So everything that is called sin. And in fact we try the best we know, how to teach once I was stopped at 42nd street when I and preach and baptize even though we fi rst arrived. It was in the summer of ’82 are unworthy. Therefore it gives me plea- in August, and I mixed up the streets, be- sure and honor to be here with you, and cause I was anxious. I stopped at a corner before I begin I want to thank you, Your and I was waiting for so-and-so to meet Eminence, for your wonderful heart. The me and help me out. I found out I was Spirit emanates from this holy ground. I parking in the wrong place. My wife said remember the hospitality you gave to the “These people are looking at you,” and students that came from Palestine, the they were looking. So, guess where I had remnant Christians that are forgotten, and housed them here at St. Tikhon’s. Last year one of those students graduated from Thessaloniki, so thanks be to God. The story of St. Elijah is not a unique story. Each one of you could write your own story about your parish, no matter how large it is or how small it is, but I want to speak about St. Elijah in par- ticular. Every time my brother-in-law, who is also a priest now retired from St. Elias Church in El Paso, Texas met at conventions or conferences, he would speak about the wonderful Bible Belt, the South. Now being from Palestine, with a literal interpretation I really felt that peo- ple were holding the Bible hanging down from their belts. I should have brought one because someone presented me with a “Bible Belt.” So, I always said it would

43 How to Make Our Parishes All of us are coworkers, but it has to come course. I had Fr. Gordon Walker come to Grow down to “me.” It has to begin with me, speak about the development of the scrip- Continued from page 43 either I sit behind a desk, or I will have to ture, talking about when they came from had a clannish mentality. I had to ask my- do something about it. the Evangelicals to Orthodoxy. They saw self, did the bishop want me to take care So I chose to move and I made pas- the sign of the Cross and how we vener- of these people? I was not informed, by toral visitations. I tried to understand the ate the Bible. He said, “We as evangeli- the way, what I was going into. He said, makeup and dynamics of the parish, and cals don’t know how to do that. We un- “Just go, that is your mission.” I found this is important. Why? Why had this par- derline the Bible.” So what we need now, families divided, the parish of 126 fi - ish ended up in chaos? To have a brother you and me, is to kiss and underline. The nancially broken, and in church services or sister that don’t speak to each other or problem, I found out in my parish, is their with fi fty people. I came from a parish respect the father, this was tearing apart Bible is collecting dust. I haven’t seen of almost 300 that I started from a small the church. Try to build up the spirit. I one of my parishioners open a Bible. Just number. Everyone was spiritually hun- always, and keep this in mind, I have al- in a sneaky way check. (Do a fi nger test gry, our priest-bishop relationship and the ways built up on the positive. Never any to see if there is dust on the front cover). community were cold. There was tension, time in my life have I put anybody down. Do it fathers. So I began to deal with the I found outside infl uences, this Protestant My father told me, “If you have some- subject that they need to know the Word. mentality, “hellfi re,” “Are you saved?” thing good to say about someone say it, if It was not enough to make the sign of the and these are the questions that constant- not don’t say it, let God be the judge.” So, Cross, as if this gives you a passport to ly hung over you, “Are you saved?” and I kept the commandments of my father heaven. Let me tell you something, it will “Have you been saved.” — I listened to his wisdom. So I went to take you nowhere. If you make thousands And then I found the ethnic ghetto this family, and this family, and this fam- of crosses and bow down it will take you mentality — “This is a church for the ily, and I listened. And my object was to nowhere. If you don’t live that Cross so Lebanese.” I didn’t see that in the Bible. forgive and to pray, and I said “Forgive that it is magnifi ed in you by sacrifi ce, it I didn’t see it for the Russians either, nei- me fi rst, God,” and built on the positive. means you are blaspheming against the ther for the Greeks. And I was stunned, I So I created a visitation for the parish One who was crucifi ed on the Cross. would tell any of you the details and you council. You know, I don’t even like the So I found people in my parish who would be stunned. word parish council. They are ministers simply didn’t talk to each other. What If you open your mind to the scrip- with me, just like Christ and the apostles. is that? How can a church grow, how ture you will fi nd that you are in a battle Each one has a unique position. So I began can you restore a family? This problem zone. These are the immediate steps I to deal with the parish council. I wanted requires obedience and humility to the took. First I began to make pastoral visi- to impress on them that I am a coworker, Lord. So here I began to bring them medi- tations. This began to give me some ideas but that I still have a vocation. I would tations and tried to initiate programs. And of whom I should visit. I was listening put my cassock on at the meeting. I would by the way, I struggled. My successes and attentively to the recommendations of in- have an icon, light a candle; I would offer experience did not come from me. First dividuals whether I liked them or not. I a prayer of intercession to the Theotokos was listening, I made an effort to make and the Holy Spirit. So the atmosphere pastoral visitations, and that requires time has to be a church atmosphere, mold the and sacrifi ce. So the priest has to answer mentality and the mind of the people. So the questions. And I’m not going to put that was very important to me. the burden on the priest, or on the met- I began to have 10-15 minutes of words ropolitan, on the bishop; it comes from of refl ection at the parish council meet- above, from Christ to the metropolitan, ings and other church organizations. You the bishop, then the priest and the laity. know we kiss the Gospel, we honor it of

44 35th Annual Fall Lecture Series of all the glory belongs to God; second to from the neighborhood. It’s very impor- “Back to Basics: my metropolitan and bishop, to the elder- tant to be hospitable, we are hospitable Rediscovering ly priests and lay people who love God. people, it’s a hospitable church, so why Teachings of our That was the strength that was related to not. Orthodox Faith” me. So I began to shape programs to get Second I immediately initiated an people involved. evening platform with the pastor. “I am First I felt we had to have a neigh- sitting here in the church, come have a borly visitations. If you have a parish cup of coffee with me, ask me any ques- People in your parish need to be with a problem, that cannot grow, then tion you want, just try it.” At the evening touched. And there are ways and means you need to do something. So I did neigh- platform, no one was higher, it was just to be creative enough to give each one an borly visitations. So I would go and say a round table. I did that and they came. opportunity, whether it is a luncheon or a “Mr. Joseph, how many people live in a I remember when I started it; there were platform. There are possibilities that ex- one mile radius in your neighborhood? I only two people. I said even if one person ist. There won’t be 100% participation, would like to come and make a pastoral would come I would do it, for the sake of but at least you tried. visit to you. Would you invite them? I one, not twenty or thirty. “And there was I found also that our people have very would make sure there were no other ex- some, he was himself and then there was limited knowledge of our faith. Ask your- penses, I would just stop for a cup of cof- Peter and he brought the million.” And self this question, “Can you defi ne who fee. And that’s how I began the ministry so we give up fast, we become so disap- you are as an Orthodox Christian, or to build up confi dence. pointed. I know in my mind that I need Christian Orthodox, if someone asks you It takes two to three years, at least, for to be patient. Patience is the key in this. which church you belong to?” You say, a pastor to build confi dence/relationship I began to have a “luncheon with your “I belong to St. James Russian Orthodox in a parish. People are looking to see if pastor.” I have to make myself available, Church.” Then they ask, “Tell me some- this priest is doing God’s work, or if he’s that’s why I’m there. Thank God my wife thing about it.” Do you have papers, pam- able to do God’s work. was accepting the challenge with me. I phlets, brochures, and audiotapes? Do And so I began to initiate what you think it very important to have a moral you have them in your churches? If you call neighborly visitations. I had a cup of support that understands your ministry. It don’t have them, you don’t have them. coffee, my bagel, and my chart. Just gen- is a ministry that requires both, but if you But they are available. I found out my eral questions they would like to discuss. have someone who’s not willing to help people didn’t know, and that’s a problem. I also asked them to invite their friends you out, you really have a problem. You My parish council didn’t know. This is a have another cross to bear. So wonder- different subject. ful for the Matushki that are here, we put Our people have suffered a lot, but we our hats off to you. And you, the future can’t use this excuse anymore. We have matushki, understand that your husband books we have materials we have every- will be a soldier on a battlefi eld, like the thing under the sun, today are on the web- soldiers who are in Iraq, or worse even. site. But we need to be good individually So keep this in mind. Thank God that my in what we believe in and how can we wife was supportive of my needs, even at share it. So I initiated a bookstore. I went the expense of my children and our live- after four people to give me a thousand lihood, to deal with the problems of St. dollars each, and they were kind enough Elijah. because they were in misery. They saw So, I thought of an idea, why don’t I their Church going down and it’s very sad create an advisory board of the chairmen when you see your home being burned of all those who served through all the or destroyed as we have seen on TV. You years in St. Elijah. Once a month I would want to rebuild. St. Ignatius Bookstore go and have breakfast with them. Just to brings us about seven to ten thousand dol- talk with them and share with them where lars a year, and we give books and pam- I’m going. I’ll get their wisdom, some phlets away. Anybody that walks into the strength because that is the connection. Continued on the next page

45 How to Make Our Parishes self — I’m not a magician. I’m not mira- home. It’s not for credit — but people are Grow cle working but I believe the Lord works coming home. But we as cradle Orthodox Continued from page 45 with those that seek his soul early in the Christians, I am sorry to say, today we are morning. The Lord can be a companion. taking it for granted. There are many that church we give them as a gift. From an And so I began to do a lot of prayer, with- sacrifi ced and gave up a lot for us to be icon to book to pamphlet. out prayer, my family, nothing moves. So where we are. And that’s a great joy for It takes one to two people to say, remember prayers and intercessions. Hard us. “Okay father; here’s an extra push.” You work and forgiveness, and the immediate How many parishes do you have with need extra hands. If you get that sup- needs in parish education. Bible studies, in your own surroundings? port you are fi ne. Thank God for people I established inquirers’ classes. A se- How about “Vacation Bible School”? who give that support. How did we get ries you can fi nd in the Resource Book for People want to learn about the word of where we are today? As I said we focus Mission and Evangelism. These are my God. How many have free pamphlets and on Christ at every meeting. We have tried ideas that I learned from others and put brochures about the Church? Just to be to build the spirit of the church [up] to together. In this book I have information given away. How much money has been personal evangelism. Whenever I went on inquirer classes and eight lecture se- put into the budget for outreach? These out I took my Bible with me. How many ries which were compiled only after long were the issues that I had to deal with. of us go to church with our Bible? How years of experience. In the midst of that I had people call- many of our children go to Sunday school I asked personal testimonies from ing threatening my life. All this because with a Bible? Very, very, very little. Even someone who has embraced the faith and I ended up going to a parish that has bad in the Bible Belt we are dealing with this had him write his story. So I read it and habits? My life was threatened. I had to issue right now. I want the children to correct it. Then I say will you please read tape the person’s voice, identify him, and bring their Bible with them. We do not it instead of my sermon in church. By do- let him know that I wouldn’t sue him and live in an Orthodox ethos like in Romania ing this I’m doing three things at the same if you ever call again you will be in jail. or Greece. We’re living in a melting pot time. So we priests also have our pains, no society where everybody’s hammering Introducing a member to the fam- doubt about that. This education process “Oh yeah” right and left. I was sharing ily. I am educating indirectly the cradle wasn’t overnight, it required patience on with his Eminence and His Grace that Orthodox (no matter how much you cry my part. Prayer, patience, consistency, four days ago I was at a gas station. Two and beg they don’t show up). So we have soul searching, and establishing various girls in a convertible pulled up as I was them in the audience in the church, and ministries — we have called them com- putting gas in my car. One of the girls you are teaching them that way. And also mittees. But this is not a committee, we jumped out and said “Can you tell me you teach about that particular person’s don’t need committees — we need min- about your Church?” Just like that. I said denomination. istries. I began to establish various minis- “Ma’am, here’s my card. You can go to “Coming Home” is the result of my tries to get people involved, because peo- our website, read something, and then sharing ideas about my future book; ple want to be involved. With the help of come visit us” (I didn’t want gas all over doesn’t matter — we need to bring people the people in the church I took a survey. the place and have a fi re.) She gave me her card. I read it as I was going to pay for the gas. It said, “Are you 100% sure you are going to heaven?” I said, “Where are they?” I looked around and they were gone. I wanted to challenge them. Why? Because they were gutsy. Whether right or wrong no one can tell for sure, but hey, they are teaching their children, teenag- ers and young people. They came to me knowing I’m a priest/pastor. They made a point. What kind of method [do we] have here in Pennsylvania? Do we have the same guts as St. Paul and like those girls? That’s a question. And I found this great challenge hammering on us in the Bible Belt and I’m sure it’s in this area too. I was sent to a church that had that eth- nic ghetto mentality. It was a church for the Lebanese. I had to deal with that, I had to deal with the lapsed Orthodox, and the inactive Orthodox. I can’t do this by my-

46 35th Annual Fall Lecture Series We gave a talent sheet to our parishioners asked, “Challenge them with what?” He “Back to Basics: to see where there is talent. You see I am said, “Ask them what is their vision.” So Rediscovering saying to the parish, What talents do we I elaborated on that. I asked them “Now Teachings of our have? This is very important — to survey that you are the parish council members, Orthodox Faith” their talents, and see where they fi t best. I would like you kindly to write your vi- It’s a way of reaching out because they sion for St. Elijah for the next 3, 5 and 10 want to be involved. years from now. I will give you a month, Have a vision for the parish. As a priest give me your ideas.” And you know from to tell us something. So I began to invite in the parish for three years, a few people the 15, 13 responded. From those 13 I had people like, Peter Gillquist, John Braun, like to point fi ngers. “My daughter is lost, these responses. Gordon Walker, and other individuals, she doesn’t come to church, we are los- “We want the church to grow, We want even Andrew Walker from England. And ing young people, what are you doing?” our young people to come, we want more these speakers before they spoke to the Everything was pointed towards me. Like sacraments in the church, we need more parish they spoke with the parish council I am the one who caused everything. So prayers, we need outreach. We need, we and other leaders to break the ice, just to now this is another challenge. I was talk- need, we need.” I said that’s good, we are build up the spirit. In terms of advertise- ing to my dad, I said “You know deal- on the same page. Now let us have a com- ment we would go to the local newspa- ing with this parish council, they know mittee, I said, why don’t we call it min- per, the local college’s departments of nothing about their faith, and they are in istries. We began to evaluate our vision, religion and philosophy. But we needed this mess, I am here trying to get some and work on priorities. You cannot do money. So I began to ask the organization ideas in their minds. I want to move for- everything at the same time. So you have in the church to allocate a certain amount ward, I can’t stay stagnant.” Father said, to work on priorities step by step. You ac- of money or to sponsor part of the speak- “Why don’t you just challenge them.” I complish one, you move to the next one. er’s expenses. Or I would ask individu- And that’s what I did, but I didn’t do it all als — I was begging. When the church of by myself, I had people to help me. Spend Jerusalem wasn’t in distress, they would time with individuals from the parish on send us money. I was begging, because I a one to one basis. It requires lots of time felt that the church would never change. from the priest to build confi dence and to I tell you when I came they did not have make that person feel that he/she is worth enough to pay my salary. They would tell it and needed. It’s not for me but for the me to talk to talk to different people. It glory of God. Never focus on yourself. So took time to change the hearts of people. we created a parish council vision, a mis- There’s no one in the church that I call sion statement. We thought to begin with evil. You can get the best of people if we would have outside speakers. I was not you smile and reach out your hand out. against bringing cradle Orthodox speak- You can get it out of the devil, if there is ers, but I thought I should have someone a devil, you can do it. You just need the who is non-cradle to come into the fold, willingness to do it, “Let’s embrace and work it out.” It took more than three years to work it out. But when I deal with speakers I have a different approach. I did not just haphaz- ardly go about getting a speaker, because there are so many speakers. I’m not say- ing I’m a great speaker, God forbid, but there are people who can deliver who can really stir the heart, and really have some- thing to say. There are some that are really boring, and you run away. So you have to really be careful what kind of topics you are going to speak about. We have a min- istry to choose topics, and how we choose to advertise in the newspaper. It’s a good idea to have an organization involved when you have a speaker. You create jobs for people in the church just to get them there. Depending on the amount of people who show up, choose the room appropri- Continued on the next page 47 How to Make Our Parishes I need to reach the lapsed and to welcome — who’s doing it? It’s not me alone. Grow the strangers. During Holy Week we It’s a pan-Orthodox Spirit. The Russian Continued from page 47 have the wonderful hymnography of “the priest is there, the Greek priest is there, ately. But in the meantime you have a lec- Stranger.” So there are so many strangers the Ukrainian priest is there taking tours. ture series and you bring a speaker. You that come to our churches who are reading Working together. What a joy to know do this four times a year and it will cost. the signs and don’t even know what the we can do things together. This can be St. Elijah did not grow just sitting. We had signs says. So we began good extensive done on a local level here in this area and to invest and the cradle Orthodox started public relations in the newspaper, in [the] anywhere. So building relationships with to say, “What’s wrong with us?” telephone directory, and various organi- your brother, the priests, is very impor- At your own parish do you see the zations in town. Whether this club or that tant — we cannot just focus on St. Elijah same person sitting in the same chair? club, we were getting involved. I asked Antiochian Orthodox Church, or the Don’t dare come over there and take her parishioners to invite me to their “club.” Russian Orthodox Church. I don’t think seat. “Get out it’s mine!” I’ve seen at St. And there are people who are members of St. Innocent wanted that. St. Innocent Elijah. But you will see in due time the clubs who give so much to the club on a would want the spreading of the gospel to spirit of hospitality. This is an example of month-only basis, which is more then they all, not just to one group. So I respect all. I an elderly lady, 82 years old. She would gave the last ten years to the church. So I respect even though it is wonderful to have come to the church, using her cane, and selected topics that would draw interest, our identity and tradition and customs, I would watch her come. A new fam- and I shared the topic with people to see if thanks be to God. But I think we can do ily came, a former Baptist minister Herb it’s really a topic that draws people. more for the gospel if we put our efforts Hamm who is now my assistant, with It is important to have a group of peo- collectively. It requires dedication for the his family of seven and sat down in the ple that are willing to smile and be hos- priest to set the tone. We need show that fourth row. I said, “Oh Lord, what’s going pitable. To extend a hand, whether its in we the priests work together as brothers. to happen to me now with this family.” So the term of ushering or helping at these That’s important. We have included St. this lady, this is the truth, she was walking lecture series or to follow up. Have regis- Elijah Church as part of this process. In down the middle aisle, then she walked tration. We have festivities at St. Elijah’s, due time we created St. Andrew’s family back, she’s counting pews with the win- which is one way of reaching out. So we night. St. Andrew family night consists of dows, she walks and she looks, walks and give out pamphlets, not too much, one seven programs with each priest involved looks, and I’m freezing, afraid something or two O.K. Then we have place mats, in giving certain lecture. We have in- is going to happen. So she comes and she something about the church. When they quirer classes — one for Bible study, one sees them sitting in the same spot. She are planning to eat they can read them or for hymnology, one on how to cook, any- looks at them and I said, “Oh Lord help take the place mat with them. We have thing just to draw some one in. They are me out!” Guess what this lady did. She tours of the church. We do not just feed doing it. Your next-door neighbor mega- went to the 5th pew and sat down. And that them; we take them on a tour. At the old churches are doing it, I don’t want to be family is in St. Elijah’s today, because church every half-hour we would have in mega-church, but surely I need to get of hospitality. We have people after 23 tours. Now that we are in a big place we the people involved. That is the secret, get years, who think as if it is their St. Elijah have fi ve tours at the same time. people involved in the Church. And so St. and their own pew. They own it. This is Those that have been in Jerusalem at Andrew consists of a pan-Orthodox Spirit a wrong concept, a wrong teaching. We the Holy Sepulcher, you can see a group of which we have now between 100-150 have to be hospitable. on that side, you see a group on this side people involved, from children, to par- In terms of outreach, mission, and evangelism, you have to have various ministries to welcome those people to get them involved and to follow-up consis- tently. I ask my people, “Are you willing to smile? Are you willing to give money?” Because my fi fth year at St. Elijah I gave them an ultimatum, I said “Look, I’ve been here fi ve years and I came because the metropolitan asked me to. I’ve been doing my best but now the time has come for me to do more to the parish. I know we are capable, but if you are not will- ing to sacrifi ce with me to help me out. I need to ask His Eminence to move me to another place.” I told the parish council there is no waste of time. I said I need fi - nancial support for mission and outreach. 48 35th Annual Fall Lecture Series ents, to strangers. This was done between ers serving in the altar, I don’t want them “Back to Basics: four or fi ve churches in town here — re- on the same Sunday. That is a secret, you Rediscovering gardless of jurisdiction it can be done. don’t bring them in on the same Sunday. Teachings of our People need to learn to work together You don’t put two brothers to usher; you Orthodox Faith” and the leadership needs to support them. mix them up so everyone has some re- St. Andrew’s night is a model that other sponsibility. The coffee hour, whatever. priests are following in Phoenix, Arizona; So it takes time on my part to create a cal- Houston, Texas; Wichita, Kansas. Pan- endar that gets people involved. So listen, the time. Cleaning toilets is not my job, Orthodoxy is needed to show our witness, that is the secret. There are people that I never was, never will be, but if I have to our collective witness. And through these ask just to clean the votives, we have a clean toilets for the sake of Christ I will. festivities, through these tours, we see a custodian, they clean them, but you see Because the church has to beautifi ed. The multitude of people coming in. some people are looking for something. sanctuary has to be cleaned; somebody Sixty to seventy percent of people has to beautify it. It is very hard for some who once belonged to a church do not at- people to shake hands, but now we try to tend a church today. Even here it is the fi nd people in the parish who like to smile same. You cannot tell me that in Hamlin and reach out. And you’re not going to with a population of 10,000, that 9,000 go fi nd everybody doing that. But in some to church on Sunday. Let’s say they do. people there is a spirit for outreach. My question is, “What happened to the When somebody knocks at the door or other one thousand?” Can we do some- comes to the Church he or she comes for a thing with that? Absolutely you can. Are reason, and that’s where you catch them. you willing to do it, that’s the question? You visit with them, you take their name, It requires dedication, fi nance and coop- their telephone number, and you give eration. This is synergy, working together. them a gift of a book. And you begin to Now we have a pan-Orthodox spirit on a follow up with a phone call. These things local level blessed by the hierarchy. There are important for outreach, mission, and is no hierarch that will tell you don’t work evangelism. Every Sunday I refl ect on the with your brother priests. So those people people I did not see in Church. And I have come for inquirer classes and if they de- lay people to participate in this outreach cide to join St. George Orthodox Church to call up them also. “I miss you Janet, I God bless them. We don’t think we are So there are various ministries to main- hope everything’s O.K.” So this is another losing him, or we are losing her. We are tain the church. Some people like history outreach, but the priest cannot always do not losing anything. In fact we are gaining so this is what I did. I said, “You’re go- it, he also needs lay people to do that. a family. We have to think always posi- ing to be the historian of St. Elijah. Go I was the pastor there, of a small par- tively. through The Word magazines each week. ish of say 50 to 100 families who have To get peoples’ involvement in the I will provide you with the books; I want had broken to pieces fi nancially; what are parish, I created a calendar where I have you to solicit all the history of St. Elijah. [the] rewards? There are great rewards! I ushers and I have epistle readers. There One person was interested in church tra- never dreamt that the church would grow is no reason for one person to read the ditions, so I said, “Go through The Word from 100 or less to 450 families. From be- epistle from the time of birth until he magazine and look for anything pertain- ing ethnic to no longer ethnic. It’s God’s dies. There’s no reason for that. There ing to church traditions.” There is already house for all people. Financially the is no reason why the treasurer needs to a book completed. But you see in the pro- church is sound. We have gone from one count the money by himself or only with cess he felt wanted and needed, and he person, a part-time secretary and myself, the same people just collected it, that is helped me. So we need to delegate and to now having nine on the staff. From a wrong. There’s no reason you can’t have share responsibilities and that is part of budget of thirty thousand to almost six two people hold the cloth. Get people in- growth. hundred and fi fty thousand today. From a volved! There’s no reason that you have We must be willing to give up, but church that was built and practically paid to say “I’m the priest and no one speaks in sometimes we don’t want to give up; we for, but barely making the expense that church.” I understand canon law. I want to want to know every little detail. So I don’t now by the grace of God a new church get this cradle Orthodox to move and he’s care if the bathroom sink is not working, was built for nine million and is paid for. not moving, so I’m going to teach them to it’s not my job. That is the council peo- We are building a family center for three move indirectly. I also have a calendar for ple’s job to fi gure something out like that. million and it will be paid for, we are in altar boys, the bookstore, Sunday school, I have to go to the people in the hospi- debt only seven hundred thousand. We parish council, and welcoming guests. So tal; there is other work for me to do. But are beginning to establish an Orthodox this calendar is a monthly calendar that is sometimes we have to deal with circum- school next year in 2006. sent to everybody, but it takes time on my stances at hand. And I have dealt with We have started a mission, and I have part to sit down. So if there are two broth- them. And I tell you it’s not that joyful all Continued on the next page

49 How to Make Our Parishes some Georgians, some Anglo-Saxon. It I taking the commandment?” We have Grow costs them fi fteen hundred a month just to been baptized, we have been chrismated, Continued from page 49 maintain the building and they’re doing we have been given the commission, it’s lots of challenges from people, they say it. And they established a building fund. not only the priests, we are all priests with “You take them away from us father, you And there was a man — you see you different functions. We are all priests to take them away from Oklahoma.” I said, have to throw the net and catch it imme- all nations. And so the beauty of St. Elijah “Really, do you love these people or do diately. There was a man that had come is that we are now able to spend our time you love their pocketbook?” Well, I don’t more than four times to the classes. And and talent to spread the Word of God in want to make a judgment, but I know ex- I said to myself, I think that I should do Oklahoma City and outside. actly the concern. We going to lose them something. I initiated a pastoral advisory It takes a good ten to eighteen years, then we lose their pocket book. And I said council. I said, “Will you be on this advi- maybe more, for a parish to see a child “You know part of outreach and mission sory council to lend us your wisdom?” He grow to say, “I would love to be a priest.” is spread the Word, and God will reward said, “I’m not a member of the Orthodox A harmonious spiritual priest. And you. So we have an enrollment of 72 souls, Church.” I said “It’s okay, your presence now out of St. Elijah we have Fr. Basil all of them, I would say have embraced here is important, will you lend a hand to McMurray, we have Fr. Anthony Bahoe, the faith. I do not like the word convert. the group over here?” Just gentle talk. He Fr. James. We have about 20 seminarians I just don’t like it. It doesn’t sound right. said, “Yes.” and priests, who have come out. Why Embrace the Orthodox faith. They already We tried to raise some money — I do you think that is? And now we can- got 10 acres to build and they’re doing the spoke about St. James. I said this “little not live without those who embrace faith, same lectures and outreach and program child James” needs some help. This child it’s amazing, it’s really a marriage. And on the campus. Out of this we have in needs clothing, needs diapers, he needs to they are serving in the church at all lev- Stillwater another mission. And how did be fed with a bottle. Can anybody give us els, they are working in offi ce duties. Are we even get to that point? I will tell you. something for this “little baby James”? we willing to give ourselves an opportu- You have to stir the hearts of your people Guess what? When we fi nished we got nity? Again, “Unless the Lord builds the to believe in the spirit of outreach and ten thousand, and fi ve thousand came house, the workmen labor in vain” (Psalm evangelism. Don’t keep the light under from guess who? That stranger. 127:1). “Behold I say to you lift up your a bushel — it’s going to burn you if you You know just the way you talk to eyes and look on the fi elds, that they are keep in under a bushel. Let it shine. And the people. You can stir the heart. It’s not ripe unto harvest” (John 4:35). And the there are individuals in the parishes who enough to bring people in. It’s a fallacy. If gospel of Matthew: “The harvest is plen- are willing to sacrifi ce. There are people you just get them into the fold, then they’re tiful but the workers are few. Therefore who sacrifi ce; and there are people who going to get out of the door — revolving beseech the Lord of the harvest to send are millionaires who won’t give you a door. We have so much of the revolving out workers to the harvest” (Matt. 9:37). dime. I know that. But I know that there door in the Protestant world, in and out. Without prayers, without Bible stud- are people who are barely making it and That’s why you have so many Christian ies, without intercessions, without sac- give more than the rich are. But as long denominations and people are lost. We rifi cing, without consistency, without as they give, thanks be to God, the rich want to keep them in. To keep them in the willingness to do the job and the co- and the poor the healthy and the sick. means we need to get out of this mental- working between lay and clergy we will We established in our budget, through ity. We need to say “It’s not our church, not accomplish the task. Every one of us generosity, a missionary budget. For ex- it’s not my church, it’s God’s house.” As will be judged; to whom much is given, ample, we say there are three families in long as it’s my church I got to go. You much is expected. So don’t say I think it Hamlin, here we are going to establish a have to change your attitude. You need to is our church, you have not yet suffered, I mission. What does it take to do that? I have the gospel of compassion, the gos- haven’t seen any wounds, any pain. There can tell you fl atly, we have to come up pel of love, the gospel of charity. This are people who did suffer for the Cross with about twenty thousand to twenty- will work, I’ve seen it. And the wonderful and have died. But I am thankful for the fi ve thousand. And I say to those people thing is that it is not only happening to St. founders and benefactors, so we have to O.K., if you really want to establish here, Elijah. It’s happening to the Greek church, be just. Thank God for they have suffered if you just support us. We will be the kind its happening to the Ukrainian church a lot to get us where we are. to bring the chair to the table, to bring — the dying church in Jones, Oklahoma. My father came to the United States the candle to the tabernacle, from A to Z. And now we tell our people living in that in 1954 collecting funds for the refugees The only thing we want from you, how neighborhood, please go and support St. [from] Palestine [who had] been scat- serious are you, can you raise a few dol- Mary and St. John’s. We don’t want that tered. And I remember him sending a note lars to get the rent for this room. So we church to be closed. That’s strength we to my Mom. I remember my Dad with the initiated St. James chapel where we go are investing in, to spread the gospel in cassock and the beard in the Holy Land. every Wednesday and have a lecture or Jones, Oklahoma. It takes time. The ques- My mom opens the envelope and sees Bible study in Stillwater. And last Sunday tion is are you willing, really, to search the his picture and goes like this (puts I was there, we had forty-two people at your heart to say, “Am I a missionary her hand to her head) then she give it to vespers. Some Albanians, Ukrainians, individual? Am I taking the torch? Am my grandfather and he go like this (puts 50 35th Annual Fall Lecture Series his head in his hands). What happened mon denominator. Give thanks that you “Back to Basics: to our son, what happen to my husband? are able to talk about personal history, and Rediscovering Because now in this picture is my Dad, love for the Bible. Slowly talk about little Teachings of our his beard is shaved; he’s no longer wear- traditions, step by step. Orthodox Faith” ing a cassock he’s wearing a suit. And my Don’t say this is my church, the only grandfather and my mom thought, “They church, the true faith, you will scare the corrupted him in America, he’s no longer heck out of those people. You absolutely an Orthodox priest.” God only knows will, and you will never see those people Saturday.” I said “I will be there.” I had what happened after this — tears, scream- again. Do it with gentleness. other things to do, but I will be there to ing, and wondering what happened to my There are resources you can use. see Spyridon. Dad. It was a mess for a while, until my Books, videotapes, audiotapes, and all So Spyridon comes in and says, “Can father called to assure them that he is still I receive communion in the Orthodox an Orthodox priest and he did not deny Church?” I said, “All right. Let’s talk fi rst, they faith. So when I came to America I and tell me your story.” So he was reading was wondering exactly about that. So I from our lecture series, but he kind of dis- said to my grandfather I am going to fi nd appeared, then he came back, then he dis- out exactly about that, whether he is still appeared, and then I hear his voice after a making the sign of the cross and if there year and a half — Spyridon, and he wants is an iconostasis in church. So when I to receive communion in the Orthodox came to America to Nebraska, there’s a Church. What do you think my response synagogue, and my father says, “There’s would be to that? I said “Spyridon, show a synagogue.” I said “Oh Lord, no.” You me the document.” I saw the document of see we escaped from the Jews, you know, baptism. He said “You know two days be- from there [Palestine]. There’s a fence fore I left, something in my heart told me here; at least in Jerusalem there’s a wall that I needed to be baptized. So I talked there. So I said, “Dad, will you take me to the tour guide, if he could fi nd a priest to the church.” “Yeah, I’ll take you to the to baptize me.” It’s like the eunuch on the church.” I was afraid to tell him, “Dad, road. He said “I’m sorry. Can you fi nd are you still Orthodox priest?” So he some one else who speaks the English took me in and I saw the iconostasis. I language?” And I told him my need. And said “Daddy it’s wonderful you are still that. Just a little love, a cup of coffee, and he said “O.K. You have two choices; you an Orthodox priest, I’m going to tell you a little sacrifi ce. Last week a man called are now in Jerusalem. Either you go to want happened.” The point of the whole me up and said, “My name is Spyridon Bethlehem or you go to Jericho. Which story is that I did not bring the Church Reese. Reese? Spyridon Reese? I doesn’t way you want to go?” They convince him here. There are many that came, and have sound Greek does it? “You know a couple not to go to Jericho, it a diffi cult trip. It’s died and have nothing that brought the years back I came to St. Elijah for inquirer true. It took them 5 hours to go 15 kilome- Church here to this land. To them is due classes. Do you remember me? My name ters, to get from Jerusalem to Bethlehem. honor and glory and memory. I believe wasn’t Spyridon, my name was Keith.” He said “I was baptized in the chapel of we have a challenge, each one of us, in “Ah, you Keith?” “Yes.” He said, “I’ve the Nativity in Bethlehem.” I said, Show honor of them, and [in] honor of Christ, to been reading a lot about the Orthodox me. The baptismal font, the chrism, the work harder to stir the heart of our com- Church and Judaism. And just two weeks priest vested. I believed. I said, you know, munity. ago I made a journey, connected with “Let me see who is that priest?” I remem- You who are on the parish council, people on the Internet. Met people in New ber from my last visit that his name is you who are lay people in the church, Jersey fl ying to the Holy Land to tour Spyridon. The priests’ name is Spyridon! don’t worry about the fi nance. You need Jerusalem and the holy places. So I went So this man took the name of the priest to worry about what the Lord has told us. and I am back and I am Orthodox.” I said, Spyridon. And so Spyridon is the godfa- To begin to read, not only kiss the Bible, “I can see your name is Spyridon.” I said, ther, and Matushka the godmother. I said, to sacrifi ce, to be an encouragement to “Where were you baptized?” He said, “I “What did he do to you.” He says “He each other. To them belongs the glory, have a story to tell you.” I said, “Do you kept me about three hours, talking to me, but to us also belongs a challenge. Are we have documents?” He said, “Yes.” I said asking me questions. And then fi nally he willing to take that challenge on? I think “Okay, Spyridon why don’t we meet next says I’m going to baptize you. When you there’s lots of people in here and every- week, I will meet you (this is important) go back to Oklahoma visit the priest and where looking for the pearl, looking for at your convenience, at any time.” This talk to him.” the truth. Believe me. is how you have to do it. “Well,” he said So he came and told me the story. I My last remark I would say is this. “I’m working.” I said, “What time do [you said, “Yes, you are Orthodox. Tomorrow How you talk to people is important, nev- have] available.” He said, “11 o’clock on I’m going to give you confession.” I spent er put people down. Speak on the com- Saturday.” I said “Okay, 11 o’clock on Continued on the next page

51 Why Do We Light Vigil Lamps Before Icons? by St. Nicholai of Zhicha

he fi rst reason is: our faith is light. erything that God the Holy Trinity can Christ said, “I am the light of the give us. Tworld.” The light of the vigil lamp The fi fth reason is: it dispels evil spir- reminds us of the light of Christ, which its, which attack us before prayer and take illuminates our souls. our thoughts away from God. Evil spirits The second reason is: it reminds us love darkness and fear light, especially of the light of holiness of the saint before the light of the vigil lamp, which burns whom the vigil lamp burns. The saints are unto God and his saints. called the sons of light. The sixth reason is: to urge us to have The third reason is: it serves as a holy fi re in our souls. Just as the olive oil warning against our dark deeds, wicked and the wick burn in the vigil lamp sub- thoughts and desires, and calls us to the ject to our will, so too, our souls need to path of the Gospel’s light. We should be afl ame with love during our sufferings, strive with zeal to fulfi ll the command- being subject to the will of God. ments of Christ, Who said: “Let your light The seventh reason is: it teaches us shine before men, so that they see your that, just as the vigil lamp cannot be light- good deeds, and glorify your Father who ed without our help, so too, our hearts is in Heaven.” cannot be lighted without God’s Holy The fourth reason is: it is our sacrifi ce Spirit. Our virtues are the oil, but from to God, Who sacrifi ced Himself for us. It God comes the holy fi re, which lights our is a sign of our thankfulness and shining hearts and makes us his sanctuary. love towards God, Whom we ask during --Translated from the Serbian prayer for life, salvation, health, and ev- by Marija Miljkovic

How to Make Our Parishes Grow Continued from page 51 two and [a] half hours with him. I went it. Christ is the center, but it takes your Thank you your Eminence and your on the Internet and I got the history of St. hand and your priest’s hand together to Grace. Spyridon and on that there is an icon of build the church, coworkers for Christ. Spyridon. I said, “This is something about St. Spyridon, just read about him, he’s Albanian Mission your patron saint.” I gave him a Bible, Continued from page 42 a service book, a candle and explained youth leaders Bible study. This gives The evening was thoroughly enjoyed how to receive communion. I said tomor- them the opportunity to get to know many by all, as it presented many with their fi rst row you are the fi rst one to receive com- young people and offer them encourage- personal look at the life of an Orthodox munion. And he came, and with the help ment and guidance in their spiritual jour- missionary. of ushers received communion. I said, neys. —Gail Mastroberte “You are just like an infant, you are just born, but we will take care of you, we’ll help you, we’ll nurture you, we welcome you.” Now if I said “No, you have to go through this and through this and through this,” he’s going to run to the sky twenty- fi ve miles and you will never see him. For further information call, write, or e-mail the seminary registrar at: But, here’s a point; people are looking St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary in every possible way. What will be our P.O. Box 130 message to them? This will make a great difference as pastor and lay people. So I South Canaan, PA 18459 pray to God that my talk about the history of St. Elijah is not a unique history. Many churches have been built throughout the (570) 937-4111 / [email protected] / www.stots.edu ages. It takes more than one person to do 52 Commentary of St. Cyril of Alexandria

ow when evening came, his dis- on the Gospel of St. ciples went down to the sea, got Ninto the boat, and went over the John sea toward Capernaum. And it was al- ready dark, and Jesus had not come to them. (John 6:16-17) Part XXI The fi rst sign having been miraculous- ly accomplished, his fl ight and withdraw- John 6:16-33 al are, providentially, found to be again the root and occasion of another, and the Wonderworker proceeds, as it is written, from strength to strength.1 For since he was being sought as King by those who were astonished at that great miracle, and was himself refusing worldly honors ac- cording to the preceding account, it was altogether necessary that he should de- part from the place, yes, rather from their whole country. So, in order that he might seem to have sailed away, and might relax somewhat the intensity of the seekers, he orders the disciples to depart before him, but he himself stays, advancing oppor- tunely to the next miracle. For it was his most earnest endeavor, by every occasion and act, to confi rm the mind of the apos- tles in their faith towards him. For since they were to be teachers of the earth, and to shine as lights in the world,2 as Paul says, he necessarily led them to all things that would profi t them. For this was to show kindness not to them alone, but to Christ Pantocrator (the Sovereign of All) those also who would be led by them to the unerring apprehension of him. But why (someone may say) after that pected that he could do nothing outside who were seeking for him, the choir of miracle, is Jesus’ ability to walk on the the normal order of things to which we the holy disciples goes down to the sea, very sea, immediately introduced? Such are subject. Necessarily, in order that he and they began to sail away immediate- a one will hear a very credible reason. For might remove himself from such a small- ly, obeying their God and Teacher in all when he desired to feed the multitudes, minded conception and might stimulate things, and without hesitation. Philip and Andrew supposed that he the Apostles’ still feeble mind to learn that would be powerless to do so — the one he, in an amazing way, does everything And it was already dark, and Jesus had saying that no small sum of money would he wishes, he — not being restrained by not come to them. Then the sea arose be- barely suffi ce them for just a little enjoy- the nature of things, the necessary course cause a great wind was blowing. (John ment, the other teaching that fi ve loaves of things not hampering him in the least 6:17-18) and two small fi sh were found with one — places under his feet the moist nature Many things at once are being arranged of the lads, but that what was found was of the waters, even though they were not usefully, and the circumstances drive the nothing to such a great multitude; and practiced in lying beneath the bodies of disciples to a more zealous search after the from practically all that they say, they ex- humans; for all things were possible, as Savior. For the deep darkness of the night to God. Evening then being now come, troubles them, hovering like smoke upon 1. Psa. 83(84):7. 2. Phil. 2:15. and time abating the vigilance of those Continued on the next page

53 St. Cyril on John’s Gospel fi rmed with regard to good confi dence in time, swim through the billows of this Continued from page 53 our being surely saved, even though many present life as a kind of sea, meeting with the raving waves, and robbing them of may be the fears of temptation that wash varied and great temptations, and endur- any way of knowing where to steer to for all around us. ing no easily-scorned dangers of teaching the remainder. Moreover the fi erceness of For observe that Christ does not ap- at the hands of those who oppose the faith winds troubles them not a little, riding on pear to those in the boat immediately on and who clearly war against the gospel the waves with a rushing noise, and rais- their setting sail, nor at the commence- preaching; but they will be freed both ing the billows to unwonted height. Yes, ment of their dangers, but when they are from their fear and from every danger, and and though these things had taken place, many stadia off from the land. For it is will rest from their toils and misery, when Jesus (it says) had not come to them: for not when the condition which harasses Christ will appear to them hereafter too, in this was their special danger, and the us fi rst begins, that the grace of him who in power suitable for God, and having the absence of Christ from the voyagers was saves visits us, but when the fear is at its whole world under his feet. For I consider bringing about an increase of their fear. height, and the danger now shows itself that his walking on the sea signifi es this, Therefore they must necessarily be mighty, and we are found, so to speak, in since the sea is often taken as a type of the tempest-tossed, who are not with Jesus, the midst of the waves of affl ictions: then, world by divine scripture, as it is said in but are cut off, or seem to be absent from unexpectedly, Christ appears and puts the psalms, this great and wide sea: there him through their departure from his holy away our fear, and will free us from all are things creeping innumerable, both laws and severed because of sin from him danger, by his inexpressible power trans- small animals and great.3 So when Christ who is able to save. If then it is heavy to forming the dread things into cheerful comes in the glory of his Father,4 as it is be in spiritual darkness, if it is grievous to contentment, like a calm. written, then the ship of the holy apostles, be swallowed up in the bitter sea of plea- that is, the Church, and those that sail in sures, let us receive Jesus; for this will de- Then they willingly received him into the it, that is those who through faith and love liver us from dangers, and from death in boat, and immediately the boat was at the towards God are above the things of the sin. The fi gure of what has been said will land where they were going. (John 6:21) world, will without delay and without all be seen in what happened; he will there- The Lord not only releases the voy- toil, gain the land where they were going. fore surely come to his disciples. agers from dangers, wondrously shining For it was their aim to attain to the king- on them, but also frees them both from dom of the heavens, as to a fair haven. So when they had rowed about twenty-fi ve toil and sweat, by his divine power pro- And the Savior confi rms this understand- or thirty stadia [three or four miles], they pelling the ship to the opposite shore. ing of all that has been said, in that he saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing For they were expecting that by rowing says to his disciples at one time, A little near the boat; and they were afraid. But on yet longer, they would with diffi culty while, and you will not see me; and again he said to them, “I am; do not be afraid.” be able to reach the end, but he releases a little while, and you will see me;5 gain, (John 6:19-20) them from these toils of theirs, revealing at another, In the world you will have trib- When they are separated by a great himself to them, in a very short time, as ulation; but be of good cheer, I have over- distance from the land, and it was likely the author of many miracles, to their full come the world.6 But in the night the Lord that they in their distress would not in any assurance. When therefore Christ appears comes down from the mountain and visits way be saved (for they were now in the and shines upon us, we will succeed with- his disciples who are keeping watch, and midst of the sea) then Christ, exceedingly, out any labor even against our hope, and they look on him coming, not without fear, thrice longed for, appears to them. For he we who are in danger through not having for they tremble; that something needful could in this manner give most welcome him, will, when he is present, no longer for our understanding may in this too be salvation to those in danger, when fear have need of toil to be able to accomplish made known to us. For he shall descend had already cut off all hope of life. But what is profi table for us. Christ then is from heaven, as in the night, the world he appears to them miraculously (for so our deliverance from all danger, and the yet sleeping and slumbering in much sin. was it ordered to their greater profi t) and accomplishment of achievements that are Therefore to us too he says, Watch there- they are astonished beholding Jesus going beyond hope, to those who receive him. fore, for you do not know what hour your through the midst of the sea and upon the But since we have discoursed on ev- Lord is coming.7 The parable of the vir- very waters, and they make the miracle ery portion of the passage separately, gins, too, will teach us this no less. For he an addition to their fear. But Christ im- come, and joining the meaning that is says that fi ve were wise, fi ve foolish: But mediately relieves them from their mis- in this together with what had occurred while the bridegroom was delayed, they fortunes, saying, I am, do not be afraid. in order previously, let us work out the all slumbered and slept. And at midnight For it must be, it must be that all disquiet spiritual vision. We said, then, that Jesus a cry was heard: “Behold, the bridegroom be away, and they be openly superior to ascended into heaven as into a mountain, is coming; go out to meet him!”8 Do you all danger, to whom Christ is now present. that is to say, being received up, after his 3. Psa. 103(104):25. We shall see then by this, again, that when resurrection from the dead. But when this 4. Matt. 16:27. we are tempted we ought to have, from has taken place, then his disciples alone 5. John 16:16. and by themselves, a type of ecclesiasti- 6. John 16:33. hope in Christ, a courageous and strong 7. Matt. 24:42. spirit and intense, patient endurance, con- cal teachers in succession throughout all 8. Matt 25:5-6. 54 see how at midnight the bridegroom is an- revealed, nor anything hidden that will that our speech be seasoned with salt;11 nounced to us? And what the cry is, and not be known and come to light.10 So I say and another of the wise exhorts us to the mode of the meeting, the divine Paul that he who desires to track the footsteps this, saying, My son, if you have a word will make known, saying at one time, of Christ, and to be molded after his pat- of understanding, answer your neighbor; For the Lord himself will descend from tern as far as any human can, ought not to if not, lay your hand upon your mouth.12 heaven with a shout, with the voice of an be eager to live in much boasting, nor to And how evil it is to be condemned for an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. be led away in pursuit of praise when he undisciplined tongue, we will know from At another [time he speaks] of the saints practices virtue, nor, if he enters upon an another: for he says, If anyone among you who are raised up: We who are alive and extraordinary and extremely disciplined thinks he is religious, and does not bridle remain shall be caught up together with life, should he desire immoderately to be his tongue but deceives his own heart, this them in the clouds to meet the Lord in extolled for this, but should desire to be one’s religion is useless.13 the air, and thus we shall always be with seen only by the eyes of the deity, who re- the Lord.9 But the disciples being smitten veals hidden things and brings into clear- Jesus answered them and said, “Most as- with fear, even though they saw him com- est apprehension that which is performed suredly, I say to you, you seek me, not be- ing and were found in toil and keeping in secret. cause you saw the signs, but because you watch, signifi es that the Judge will come ate of the loaves and were fi lled.” (John terrible to all, and that the righteous man When the people therefore saw that Jesus 6:26) will surely quake within himself, proven was not there, nor his disciples, they also We will say something common, yet as by fi re, even though ever foreseeing got into boats and came to Capernaum, worn by little use.14 It is often the custom him who was to come, and not shrink- seeking Jesus. (John 6:24) of great teachers to be not slightly angry ing from toils in virtue, being nourished These people follow him, probably when they are questioned about vain and in vigilance and good watching alike. But amazed at his miracles, yet not receiving useless matters. And we shall fi nd that the Lord does not enter into the ship with any profi t from them with regard to the they are so not because of haughtiness, his disciples, as though he were going to necessity of believing, but as though they but rather from annoyance at the folly of sail with them, but rather he moves the were making some return to the wonder- the questioners. I think that this is not un- ship on to the land. For Christ will not ap- worker by merely bestowing on him a rightly said of us therefore and those like pear any more working with those who praise that is not unwished for. For this us; but the Savior infl icts a warm rebuke honor him, unto their achievement of vir- is a dreary disease of a mind and soul on those who made those inquiries, for tue, but to give to those who have already which is never accustomed to be led to the speaking uninstructedly, and for unwisely achieved their looked-for end. choice of what is profi table for her. The inquiring not because it was their duty to reason why this was so with them, was seek out the things by which they might On the following day, when the people that they delighted solely in the pleasures become honest and good, but because they who were standing on the other side of of the fl esh, and eagerly rushed upon the followed him for carnal reward and that a the sea saw that there was no other boat most worthless temporal food, rather than most petty one. For what is less than daily there, except that one which his disciples running after the spiritual good things food, and the least in sumptuousness at had entered, and that Jesus had not en- and endeavoring to gain what would feed that? We must then practice piety towards tered the boat with his disciples, but his them for life eternal. This you will clearly Christ and love of him, not that we may disciples had gone away alone; however, learn by what follows too. obtain anything of bodily goods but that other boats came from Tiberias, near the we may gain the salvation that is through place where they ate bread after the Lord And when they found him on the other him; and let us not say good words to had given thanks. (John 6:22-23) side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, him, as these say Rabbi, nor craft kind The miracle does not escape notice, I when did you come here?” (John 6:25) words as a foundation of gain and bound- mean Jesus walking on the very sea, al- In form, their speech pretends to be less accumulation of riches. Truly he who though it took place by night and in the that of those who love him, and feigns attempts such things will not be ignorant dark, and was effected in secret. But the sweetness in a certain way, but it is con- that he will encounter Christ who will crowd of those who were in the habit of victed of being extremely senseless and keenly convict him and reveal his hidden following him observes, being assured — childish. For on meeting with so great a wickedness. as is probable — by much watching, that teacher, they should not have talked to But again it is fi tting to admire also he had neither sailed with his disciples, no purpose and taken no pains to learn the discretion in this. For when he saw nor had crossed in any other boat. For anything. For what was the need of be- that they were enveloped in the aforemen- there was there only the apostles’ boat, ing eager to ask him when he came there? tioned disease, as a physician who is skill- which they took and went away before- What good would they be likely to get ful and the master of his art, he devised hand. Nothing, then, is hidden of good from knowing? We must, therefore, seek 11. Col. 4:6. things, even if it is performed in secret wisdom from the wise, and let a prudent 12. Ecclesiasticus 5:12. St. Cyril’s text adds the words “my by the doer, and here we see that that is silence be preferred to undisciplined son” and “word of.” 13. James 1:26. true: For nothing is secret that will not be words. For the disciple of Christ bids 14. i.e. not much used. 9. 1 Thess. 4:16-17. 10. Luke 8:17. Continued on the next page 55 St. Cyril on John’s Gospel watching and were still toiling, and re- he was calling him to salvation while the Continued from page 55 leased them from their fear, and brought time of mercy was advancing, both for the ship at once to land. And what is por- him to beg for forgiveness for his trans- a twofold medicine for them, entwining trayed to us by these things as in fi gures, gressions previously committed, and to the helpful reproof with a most glorious we have there declared. But now observe seek for lovingkindness from God who miracle. We shall fi nd then the miracle that after Jesus had come down from the saves. in his knowing their thoughts; and, in the mountain, certain persons miss following wonder-worker not telling them what they him, and come to him last. For they come Do not labor for the food which perishes, sought to know not out of piety, you will on the day following, the evangelist hav- but for the food which endures to ever- behold the reproof. And the advantage is ing added this not without care also. Then lasting life (John 6:27) twofold. For in that he has perfect knowl- on meeting with him, they endeavor to Something like this Paul teaches us, edge and accurate perception of their de- wheedle him with good words; but Christ expanding the discourse universally and vices, he shows that they are without un- chides them, bringing on them hot and more generally, saying, He who sows to derstanding, in that they think to escape stinging reproof, in order that again we his fl esh will of the fl esh reap corruption, the divine eye while they heap up wick- might consider this: that after our Lord’s but he who sows to the Spirit will of the edness in their heart and practice sweet coming to us from heaven, the search af- Spirit reap everlasting life.19 For he says words with their tongue. But this is the ter good things is most vain and profi tless that they sow to the fl esh who, giving full part of One who persuades them to depart for men, nor will the desire to follow him rein, so to speak, to the pleasures of the from this their disease, and to cease from fi nd any fi tting season. Yes, even though fl esh, advance at full speed to whatever no slight sin. For outrageous and lawless certain ones approach him, thinking to they will, not distinguishing in any way is he who has this conception of God. appease him with smoothest words, they what is profi table for them from what is In usefully convicting them of sinning, will meet the Judge no longer mild and hurtful and injurious, nor in any way being he restrains, in a certain way, the future gentle, but reproving and avenging. For accustomed to approve what seems good course of evil. For that which has no hin- you will observe the fl attery of those who to the Lawgiver, but heedlessly hurrying drance creeps on and extends itself; but are reproved, and the reproof itself, in off to that alone which is pleasant and when caught in the fact, it is very nearly the Savior’s words, when he says, Many agreeable, and not preferring anything to ashamed, and contracts into itself like a will say to me in that day, the Day of visible things. Again he affi rms that they rope. Therefore, the Lord profi ts them by Judgment, of course, “Lord, Lord, have sow to the Spirit, who expend the whole reproving also, and by those things by we not cast out demons in your name, aim of their mind on those things in which which one thinks that he smites, by these and done many wonders in your name?” the Holy Spirit wills us to excel, employ- very things he is seen to be their bene- But he says, Then I will declare to them, ing a mind so intense toward the cultiva- factor. Therefore we must hold that even “Truly, I say to you, I never knew you.16 tion of good things that, if the voice of though some fl atter or with mild words For you did not seek me purely, he says, nature which is insistent did not constrain wheedle those who govern the Churches, nor did you love to excel in holiness, for them to minister needful food to the fl esh, but are not sound concerning the faith, it by that I would have known you, but since they would not endure to descend even is not appropriate that they should be car- you practiced piety in mere appearance to this. I think then that we ought to take ried away by their fawnings, nor by way and in the expectation of gain, I confess no forethought whatever for the fl esh, for of payment for their applause, lend in justly that I have not known you. What its lusts,20 but rather to apply ourselves to return, silence in regard to their faults to then in that passage is Lord, Lord, is here what is most needful, and to be zealous those who need correcting; but rather we Rabbi. So, let whoever fi nds punishment in practicing those things which bring ought to rebuke them boldly and persuade a bitter thing, not fall into inertness nor, us to the everlasting and divine life. For them to change for the better, or at least, if in various ways, be infi rm in transgres- admiration for the delights of the body, it be so, to profi t others by it, according to sion, looking to the goodness of God; but and valuing nothing better than fi lling the what was spoken by Paul, Those who are let him prepare his works for his going belly to excess, is truly brutish and akin sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that forth, as it is written, and make it fi t for to the most extreme folly. But to apply the rest also may fear.15 himself in the fi eld,17 that is, while he is in ourselves to good things, and to earnestly These things then [were said] in re- the world. For the Savior interpreted that to strive to excel in virtues and be sub- spect of the subjects that lie before us the fi eld is the world.18 Let him prepare ject to the laws of the Spirit, and with all separately: but I think I ought to show that to show holiness and righteousness be- readiness to seek after the things of God, they are in connection, and of necessity fore the divine judgment seat. For he will which are able to furnish us with provi- follow those considered previously. We not behold a Judge who is, out of season, sions us for salvation — I will grant that said then that our Savior’s coming down loving toward mankind, nor who yields this is truly appropriate for him who gets from the mountain typifi ed his second and to entreaties for mercy, in Him Whom he to know his own nature more fully, and is future coming to us from heaven, and we ought to have obeyed without delay when not ignorant that he has been made a rea- added, as in summary, that he appeared sonable creature according to the image to his disciples while they were keeping 16. cf. Matt. 7:22-23. 17. Prov. 24:27 Lxx. 19. Gal. 6:8. 15. 1 Tim. 5:20. 18. Matt. 13:38. 20. cf. Rom. 13:14. 56 of him who created [him].21 Therefore, as in him, being sanctifi ed in body and soul. a thing is wholly foreign to human nature, the Savior somewhere says, Let us take But we will see him speaking more open- and is suited only to him who is God over no thought, saying ‘What shall we eat?’ ly of this hereafter. The discourse must be all. The Savior therefore defends himself or, ‘What shall we drink?’ or, ‘What shall kept, then, for its proper time and place. beforehand, and by seasonable arguments we wear?’ 22 but considering that life23 is puts their expected impudent loquac- more than food, and the body than cloth- ity to shame. For he says that the Son of ing,24 let us take thought how the more Man will give them the food which nour- precious part of us may do well. ishes them toward everlasting life, and For when the body does well and is immediately affi rmed that he is sealed made fat by a succession of foods, it will by the Father. Sealed again is either put not profi t the miserable soul; but on the for anointed (for he who is anointed is contrary, it will work much harm. For it sealed), or as showing that he has been by will depart into the everlasting fi re, since nature formed unto the Father. those who have performed nothing of It is, then, just as if he had said, I am good works must undergo punishment for not unable to give you food which en- it; but if the body has been bridled by suit- dures and lifts up to everlasting life and able reason and has been made subject to delight. For though I seem as one of you, the laws of the spirit, both must surely be namely, a human being with fl esh, yet saved together. It is therefore most absurd was I anointed and sealed by the God and that we should so take thought for the Father to an exact likeness with him. For fl esh, which is temporary, and inasmuch you shall see (he says) that he is in me, as it has not yet perished, as to think that and I again in him naturally, even though it ought not to lack any one thing which it for your sakes I was born man of a wom- loves, but to care for the soul by treating an, according to the ineffable order of the it as though it held a secondary position economy. For I can do all things in divine or as though it were in value worth noth- authority and power, and do not in any ing; and indeed, I think we ought rather way come short of the strength inherent to apply ourselves so much to concerns in the begetter. And though the God and for the soul, since it is of more value than Father gives you the spiritual food which the body. For in this way, truly preferring preserves unto eternal life, it is clear that what surpasses in comparison to what is the Son too will give it, even though made inferior, and giving a just vote in this mat- in fl esh, since he is his exact image; the ter, we shall become holy and wise jurors, likeness in everything being conceived and not bestow the palm of right reasoning not after the lineaments of fl esh, nor yet on any other, but rather shall put it upon St. Cyril, Patriarch of Alexandria in any way conceived of in bodily form, our own heads. So, as the Savior says, but in divinely-befi tting glory and equal let us not labor for the food which per- power and royal authority. ishes, which, after it has passed into the CHAPTER V. But we must observe again, that when belly and has for a very little while made That the Only-Begotten Son is the he says that the Son of Man will give the jests at the mind through the most petty Impress of the Hypostasis of the God things appropriate to God, and that he pleasure, goes out into the draught and is and Father, and no other Impress ex- has been sealed with the image of the conveyed forth again from the belly. But cept he, either is, or is conceived of. God and Father, he does not endure the the spiritual food which strengthens the division of him who separates the temple heart,25 preserves the man with respect to . . . which the Son of Man will give you, from the Virgin, from the true sonship,27 eternal life, which also Christ promises to because the Father, God, has set his seal but defi nes himself, and again wills to be give us, saying, “Which the Son of Man on him. (John 6:27) conceived of, as one. For truly, one over will give to you,” at once entwining to- As God, he was not ignorant of the us is Christ, bearing as it were the royal gether that which is human with what is charges that would result from the Jewish purple, his own robe, I mean his human divine, and connecting the whole mystery ignorance, nor of the reasons why they body, or his temple, namely of soul and of the economy with fl esh26 in its order. were often foolishly enraged. He knew body; since Christ also is one, from both. But I think he is hinting at the mystical that they would reason in themselves — But, best sir (the Christ-opposer again and more spiritual food by which we live looking to the fl esh alone, and not spiri- will say), give the truths the power of tually apprehending in it God the Word gaining the victory: do not deal subtlely 21. Col. 3:10. 22. Matt. 6:31. — Who is this who usurps words that are 27. Evidently a reference to Nestorius, who claimed to 23. life: or, the soul. appropriate for God? For who can give to discern in Christ two entities: the son of man, and the 24. Matt. 6:25. human beings food that preserves them Son of God. 25. Psa. 103(104):15. 26. economy with O esh: i.e. the incarnation. with respect to everlasting life? For such Continued on the next page 57 St. Cyril on John’s Gospel as the brightness, for instance, is in the O boundless folly, and perilous con- Continued from page 57 brightening and from the brightening, ceit! How easily have you forgotten those with the saying, dishonorably drawing it and something different, according to the things just now made clear. For we said to and fro wherever you will. Look: by mode of conception, and again not differ- that the Son was the impress of the Father, this is the Son clearly proved to be not ent, as viewed in relation to it, because it and that with him was sealed other than from the Father’s essence, but rather a is said to be from it, and again in it. And he, and not himself, lest he be thought to copy of his essence. Suppose (they say) without doubt these things are not under- be his own impress. But you, having not something such as we say: A seal or sig- stood in the way of division and complete rightly spurned our argument on these net impressed on wax, for example, or essential partition; for with regard to iden- matters, do not blush to attribute to him any other matter fi t to receive it, and en- tity of essence, they are inherent in those a likeness of operation only. Only in im- graving a likeness only of itself, is taken things from which they are, and from ages then will the Son be God, according away again by the one who pressed it on, which they are believed to be, emerging to you, and not by nature at all, but merely having lost no part of itself: so the Father, according to manifestation, as in concep- in that he was formed and well fashioned having imposed and imprinted himself tion, to something else, of their own, yet after the likeness of him who engen- wholly on the Son in some way by a most not separate. So, the Word who is from dered, and likely no longer of him who accurate likeness, surely he has no part of the Father’s own essence, not bare, nor engendered; for it is time that you should, his essence from himself,28 nor is he con- fl eshless, is sealed by the Father — but because of these things, take away the ceived of as from it, but a mere image and more, through him are sealed those things engendering also; yes, even more, there accurate likeness. which are lifted up to likeness with God, is every need even if you do not wish it. Let the zealot for knowledge see that as far as this is possible, as we understand Now on the necessity of believing that the even now is our opponent springing on in that which is said by certain ones: The Son is begotten of the Father, we have al- us like a serpent, and rearing high his light of your countenance has been signed ready expended much argument, or will venom-fi lled head; but he who shatters on us, O Lord.32 For he says that the coun- do so in its place. But it would be more the heads of the dragon,29 will shatter this tenance of the God and Father, is the Son, fi tting that we should proceed to the mat- one too, and will give us power to escape which is again the impress, but the light ter in hand, putting forward, to those who his diversely-evil disposition. Let him from him is the grace which through the are unrestrainedly accustomed to shame- who has just been dinning us with dread- Spirit fi lls the creation, and by which we less talk, the question, Will they not sure- ful words then tell us: Does not a seal or are, through faith, remolded towards God, ly say that that which is given may also be signet, which may be made of wood or of receiving through him as with a seal, taken away, and confess that that which iron or of gold, certainly seal with some the conformation to his Son who is the is added can also be entirely thrown off? impress those things on which it comes, Father’s image, that our being made after For does it not sometimes happen that and will it not be and be conceived of as the Creator’s image and likeness might be everything which is not fi rmly rooted in a seal apart from the impress? But then I well preserved in us. But since the Son is some by nature, is let go of? It is evident, suppose that every one of our opponents confessedly the countenance of the God even if any of them should not assent to it. too, being drawn in to the very truth by and Father, he will surely be the impress Sometime or other, then, according to the what is fi tting, even involuntarily, would too with which God seals. argument of possibility, the Son will be confess that it will by all means seal with Truly so (says our opponent), we be- bereft of his likeness. For he was sealed an impress; and without an impress, not lieve that God through the Spirit seals the (as you say) by the mere operation of his at all, according to fair reasoning. Since Saints, but the things that you are bring- Father upon him, not having the stability then, as the divine Scripture testifi es to us, ing forward have no place in the present that is of natural endowments, but con- the Son is the impress of the hypostasis30 question. Therefore we will recapitulate ceived of and existing wholly other than of the God and Father, in that clearly he is and say, The seal, supposed to be of iron, his Father, and completely severed from naturally in it and from it, on what is he or maybe gold, stamps its own likeness his essence. Doing then very excellently himself impressed, or through whom else on the matter on which it comes, losing and foreseeing matters with the most cun- will the Father seal his own impress? For nothing of its own, but by the mere opera- ning reasoning, you secured the Father no one would say that the Father is not, tion of its being pressed on, it marks the by saying that he gives nothing of him- certainly, in a form appropriate to God, things that receive it; thus do we hold that self to the Son, except that he bestows which is the Son, the form of the one who the Son has been sealed by the Father, not on him likeness alone, lest any passion engendered him; whom if any behold having anything of his essence, but pos- should be conceived of as about him. For spiritually, he will, plainly, see the Father sessing merely an accurate likeness there- this is your simple-minded mystery. For himself. For this reason he says that he of, and being other than he, as the image probably you were ignorant that the God too is a nature that is in him31 naturally, is to the archetype. and Father, who does all things without even though he be conceived to be from 30. Heb. 1:3. passion, will also beget without passion, 31. he too . . . in him: the Son is a nature (physis) that is in and is superior to fi re (for the argument him by reason of his individual existence; the Father, where physis may have its usual meaning of quality or property, or perhaps is used in another brings us down to this necessity) which 28. he has . . . himself: the Son has no part of the Father’s of its many meanings, hypostasis. Cf. Christ’s words “I without passion or corporeal division en- own essence that is from the Father himself. am in the Father.” 29. Psa. 73(74):14. 32. Psa. 4:6. genders the burning which is from it. Let 58 those, therefore, who are mighty only in what is proper, in glorifying him who is [the opinion of] them, any of divine attri- making guesses, and who consider unre- not by nature God? They err, it seems, in butes should be in one who is not from the strained blasphemy to be nothing unholy calling him who is honored with equal divine nature36 according to essence, and but rather a virtue, hear that if they say honor, “Lord of Sabaoth.” Or shall we not that that one should, in the same way, be in that the Son is classed with the Father in a say that the highest Powers, Principalities, that nature37— tell me what is to prevent relationship of likeness alone, he will not Thrones, and Authorities and Lordships all divine things from, thenceforth, com- stand in secure possession of good things, attempt, according to their ability, to ap- ing down even upon those who are not but his being God by nature will be en- pear conformed to God? For if that liv- by nature gods?38 For if one [attribute], tirely at risk, and will, at least in terms of ing thing of the earth, I mean man, which I mean immutability, really fi nds place possibility, admit of change for the worse. is so small in respect of that creation, unhindered, there will be room for the For to that governor of Tyre too, words is honored with such beauty, what rea- rest also. And what follows? Utter confu- were said which reason requires us to at- son has one for not thinking that assur- sion to us.39 For will not the superior pass tribute to the person of the devil: You are edly far better things are allotted to those below, and the inferior climb up into the a seal of the likeness;33 but he to whom who are far better than we? How then do highest place? And what is there, then, to that speech is addressed is found to have they both call him Lord of Sabaoth,34 and hinder even the most high God from being fallen from the likeness. stand around as a guard, as ministering to brought down to our level, and, again, us By such instances you see then, and the King of the universe? Why does he from being gods even as the Father, when clearly too, that merely being in the like- sit with the Father, and that on his right there no longer is or is seen any difference ness of God does not make a secure, un- hand — the slave with the master, the intervening, if the qualities which belong moved stability in things spiritual, nor made with the maker? For is it not more to God alone, proceed to us, and are in us yet does being rightly sealed toward the fi tting to bring that which is dispassionate naturally?40 And since the God and Father nature of the maker suffi ce for unchanged and unchanged by reason of vigilance, to contains in himself alone, as is reason- continuance in good things to those who the level of things originate rather than to able, those properties by which we should abide in them. For they too fall, and are the level of him who is God by essence, be as he, we have remained human, and carried headlong, often changing into a who possesses naturally the inability to with us the angels likewise what they are, worse mind than they had at the begin- suffer? But this is obvious, though they not ascending up to that which is above ning. According to this argument then, it do not say it. Who then will endure these all. For if God should reveal himself not is possible for the Son — attaining to like- babblers, or how will they not reasonably jealous, by putting his own attribute into ness with the Father by sameness of work hear, Woe to those who are drunken with- the power of all, surely many would be only, and not being fi rmly fi xed by the out wine?35 those who would be gods by nature, able support that is by nature, but having his But perhaps they will be ashamed of to create earth and heaven and all the rest stability in the mere motions of his own the absurdities of such arguments, and of the creation. For the excellencies of will — to undergo change, or, though he will proceed to this, and say that the Son him who is by nature the Creator having does not suffer it, should fi nd his not suf- was sealed by the Father to [the measure once passed on, how will not they be as fering it the result of admirable purpose, of] a most accurate likeness, and is un- he is? Or what would prevent that which and not rather the steadfastness of natural changeable in nature, even though he is shines with equal goods, from appear- stability, as God. not from the Father. ing in equal glory? But the God-opposer What then, most noble sirs: is the Son Tell me then, how can that which is surely sees, in every way, how great is the no longer truly God? And if, according to not from God by nature, bear his attribute, multitude of strange ideas hence accumu- you, he is found so, why do we worship and that which did not, according to the lated upon us, and declaims against the him? Why is he glorifi ed together with true mode of generation, proceed from misinformation that is in him. The Deity God the Father? Why is he carried, as the divine essence, be found essentially then will remain in its own nature, and the God, upon the highest powers? Are, then, not without a share of the excellences creature will partake of this through spiri- the holy Seraphim themselves too, with thereof? For I think it is clear and con- tual relationship but will never ascend up us, ignorant that they greatly err from fessed by all, that the properties of the di- 36. the divine nature: autes, literally, “it”; probably, in 33. Ezek. 28:12 Lxx. The text continues as follows, vinity are wholly unattainable by created context, for tes theias physeos or else tes theotetos, the describing the great glory, and the downfall, of the nature, and that the qualities belonging to deity. prince of Tyre: “. . . and a crown of beauty. You were in 37. literally, “it”; see previous note. the delight of the paradise of God . . . you have bound it by nature will not exist, in equal and 38. St. Cyril’s argument here seems to preclude the upon you every precious stone . . . you have ' lled your exact manner, in anything else that is: as possibility of theosis (deiN cation), but not if his words treasures . . . with gold. From the day that you were are understood as only excluding a creature’s naturally created you were with the cherub; I set you on the holy for example, immutability is in God natu- possessing or sharing in divine attributes, as opposed mount of God; you were in the midst of the stones of ' re. rally; in us by no means so, but a kind of to by grace. See also next note. You were faultless in your days, from the day that you 39. to us: i.e. as it appears to us. were created, until iniquity was found in you. From the stability likens us to it, through heed and 40. proceed to us: i.e. exist in us, or are able to exist in abundance of your merchandise you have ' lled your vigilance not allowing us readily to go af- us; the procession not being in terms of time, but storehouses with iniquity, and have sinned; therefore you ter those things which we ought not. But of natural state. This is shown by the presence of have been cast down wounded from the mount of God . the adverb “naturally” which -- with reference to the . . Your heart has been lifted up because of your beauty; if it were possible that, in accordance with previous note -- conN rms that Cyril is not excluding your knowledge has been corrupted with your beauty; the possession of divine attributes by grace but only because of the multitude of your sins I have cast you to 34. Isa. 6:8. by nature. the ground...” 35. Cf. Isa. 28:1 Lxx. Continued on the next page 59 St. Cyril on John’s Gospel som for his own poll,44 half a didrachm.45 what he should do, that he might be found Continued from page 59 But one stater contains a didrachm. an heir of everlasting life. The Lord said to the dignity that unchangeably belongs Indeed, and in this again, was prefi gured to him, You surely know the command- to it. But, our argument being composed to us Christ himself, who offered himself ments: “Do not kill,” “Do not commit in this way, we will fi nd that immutabil- for all, as issuing from all, a ransom to the adultery,” “Do not bear false witness,”47 ity exists in the Son essentially. He is, God and Father, and he is understood in and the like. But he, as lacking none of therefore, God by nature, and of necessity the one drachma, but not separately from these things, or even not accepting an ex- from the Father; so that no one who is not the other, because in the one coin, as we position of teaching which fell far short of from him by nature should reach an equal said before, two drachmas are contained. his existing practice, says, All these things rank in deity. Thus may both the Son be conceived of in I have kept from my youth. What do I still But since they hold out to us as an respect of the Father, and again the Father lack?48 So, what he did, joining haughti- incontestable argument, their saying that in respect of the Son; both in one nature, ness to ignorance in his question, What the Son is other than the Father, as image but each separate in part, as existing in do I still lack — the same these do also to archetype, and through this subtlety his own entity,46 yet not wholly severed, through their excessive arrogance and think to sever him from the essence of the nor one apart from the other. And as in self-conceit alike, saying, What shall we begetter, they will be caught in no slight the one coin were two drachmas, hav- do, that we may work the works of God? folly, and to have devised their assertion ing equal bulk with one another, and in A good thing then is a humble intent, to no purpose that has any ability, in truth, no way one less than the other — in this and it is the work of a noble soul to entrust to accomplish fairly what they have in way shall you conceive of the Son’s es- to its teachers the understanding of what is mind. For what further are they vainly sence, differing in nothing with respect profi table, and thus to yield to the lessons contending for, or how can they, only to the God and Father, and again of the which they think it right to instill, inas- from the distinctness of his own being, Father with respect to the Son, and you much as they are superior in knowledge. sever the Son from the Father? For the will henceforth receive wholesome doc- For how will they be accepted as teachers fact that he has personal existence41 does trine upon all points spoken of concerning at all, if they do not have superiority of not, I think, prove that he is different from him. understanding beyond what the mind of the essence of him who engendered him. their pupils have, since their progress will For he is confessedly from the Father, as Then they said to him, “What shall we scarcely reach the measure of their teach- being from his essence; again, he is in the do, that we may work the work of God?” ers’ knowledge, according to the Savior’s Father, by reason of his being in him by Jesus answered and said to them (John word, A disciple is not above his teacher, nature; and you will hear him say, at one 6:28-29a) and, It is enough for the disciple that he time, I proceeded forth from the Father The inquiry is not from a good inten- be as his Teacher?49 and have come42 again at another time, I tion, and neither, as one might suppose, am in the Father and the Father in Me.43 does the question proceed from desire for This is the work of God, that you believe For he will not withdraw into a wholly knowledge on their part, but rather it is in him whom he sent. (John 6:29b) and completely separated personality, the result of extreme arrogance. For as if Most severely does the Lord attack the since the holy Trinity is conceived of as they would deign to learn nothing beyond folly of the questioners, although secretly being in one godhead; but being in the what they knew already, they all but say still, and obscurely. For looking merely Father, in mode or position undivided as something of this sort: Suffi cient for us, at the simple meaning of the words, one to consubstantiality, he will be conceived good sir, are the writings of Moses; we would suppose that Jesus was command- of as likewise of him, according to the know as much as we need of the things ing them nothing else, than to believe procession which ineffably manifests which he who is skillful in the works of on him; but on examining the intent of him in respect of beaming forth. For he is God ought to aim for. What new thing, the words, he will see that they refer to light, from light. Therefore in the Father then, will you supply, in addition to those something else. For he arranges his dis- and from the Father, alike undivided and which were appointed at that time? What course so that it is extremely well suited separate, in him as impress, but as image strange thing will you teach, which was to the folly of the questioners. For they, as to archetype, will he be conceived of in not shown us before by the divine words? though they learned suffi ciently through his own person. But we will not simply The inquiry then is of folly, rather than the law how to work what was well-pleas- talk about this, but will confi rm it by ex- really of a studious will. You have some- ing to God, blasphemously disregard the ample from the law, fortifying on all sides thing of this kind in blessed Matthew too. teaching of our Savior, saying, What shall the force of truth against those who think For a certain young man, overfl owing we do, that we may work the works of otherwise. with an abundance of wealth not so easy God? But it was necessary that he should Accordingly, the law appointed to the to obtain, was intimating that he would show them that they were still very far re- sons of Israel that each should bring a ran- enter upon the due service of God. When moved from the worship most pleasing to he came to Jesus, he eagerly inquired God, and that they — who, cleaving to the 41. has personal existence: to hyparchein auton 44. Gk. kephales letter of the law, have their mind full of idiosystatws. 45. cf. Exod. 30:12,13. 42. John 16:28, 8:42. 46. hyparchon idiosystatos. 48. Matt. 19:20. 43. John 14:10. 47. cf. Luke 18:20. 49. Matt. 10:24,25. 60 mere types and forms — knew nothing at and believe you? What work will you do? trines? By this, too, is our Savior’s word all of the true good things. So, opposing Our fathers ate the manna in the desert; shown to be true; for by their own words the fruit of faith to the worship of the law, as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from they are convicted of thinking that they he says with some great emphasis, This is heaven to eat.’” (John 6:30-31) ought to seek him, not to admire him for the work of God, that you believe in him The disposition of the Jews unveils those things which he had accomplished whom he sent. That is, it is not what you itself by little and little, although hidden in a divine manner, but because they had supposed (he says) looking to the types and as yet buried in less overt arguments. eaten of the loaves and were fi lled. alone; but know this (even though you For they were saying in their folly, What For they demand of him a sign, will not learn it), that the Lawgiver took shall we do, that we may work the works not any chance one, but such as (they no pleasure in your sacrifi ces of oxen, nor of God? as if, as we said before, they held thought) Moses had performed when he do you need to sacrifi ce sheep, as though fed the people that came out of Egypt in God willed and required this.50 For what the wilderness, with the supply of manna, is frankincense, though it curls in the air not for one day, but for forty whole years. in fragrant steam; what will the he-goat For, knowing nothing at all (it seems) of profi t, he says, and the costly offerings of the mysteries in the divine Scriptures, cinnamon?51 God does not eat the fl esh of they did not consider it appropriate to at- bulls, and neither does he drink the blood tribute the marvelous work done in that, of goats;52 He knows all the fowls of the to the divine power which wrought it, but sky, and the beauty of the fi eld is with very foolishly crown the head of Moses him.53 But he has hated and rejected your for this. Therefore they ask of Christ a feasts, and will not smell in your solemn sign equal to that, giving no wonder at assemblies, as he himself says;54 nor has he all to the sign which had been shown spoken to your fathers concerning whole them for a day (although it was, as it hap- burnt offerings or sacrifi ces.55 Therefore pened, great) but saying that the gift of not this is the work of God, but rather that: food ought to be extended to them for a that you believe on him whom he sent. For long time. For even in that way he would truly better than the worship that is of the scarcely shame them into confessing and law and of types, is the salvation through agreeing that the Savior’s power was most faith; and the grace that justifi es, than the glorious, and his doctrine therefore to be commandment that condemns. received. It is plain, then, even though So the work of the pious soul is faith they do not say it in plain terms, that they towards Christ, and zeal for becoming Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian wholly disregard signs, and under pretext wise in the knowledge of him is far more of marveling at them, are zealous to serve the commandment through Moses suffi - excellent than being devoted to the ty- the impure pleasure of the belly. cient to conduct them to all wisdom by pological shadows. And you will marvel which they might know how to perform also at this besides: whereas Christ cus- CHAPTER 6 what was well-pleasing to God. But their tomarily took take no notice of those who Of the manna, that it was a type of aim being such [as it was] was concealed, questioned him, tempting him, he an- Christ’s presence and of the spiritual but is now being unveiled, and little by lit- swers this for the present economically56 graces through him. tle comes forth more plainly. For nothing (even though he knew that they would be is secret as the Savior says, that will not profi ted nothing) to their own condemna- Then Jesus said to them, Most assuredly, be revealed, nor anything hidden that will tion, as he says elsewhere too, If I had I say to you, Moses did not give you the not be known.58 What then? they say, What not come and spoken to them, they would bread from heaven . . . (John 6:32) sign do you show? The blessed Moses was have no sin, but now they have no excuse Now too does the Savior most severe- honored (he says) and with great reason, for their sin.57 ly convict them of being without under- he was set forth as a mediator between standing, and extremely ignorant of what God and man. Yes, and he gave too a suf- Therefore they said to him, “What sign is in the Mosaic writings. For they should fi cient sign, for all those who were with will you perform then, that we may see it have known quite clearly that Moses him ate the manna in the wilderness. But was ministering the things of God to the now, you — since you come to us in a po- 50. Psa. 50(51):16-17. people, and again those of the children of 51. Jer. 6:20. sition greater than his, and do not shrink 52. Gen. 50:13. Israel to God, and was himself the worker from adding to the things decreed of old, 53. Psa. 49(50):9-11. in none of the miracles, but rather a min- 54. Amos 5:21, Isa. 1:14. with what signs will you show us yourself ister and helper in those things which the 55. Jer. 7:11. as trustworthy, or while showing us what 56. economically: this word has several meanings; those giver to them of all good things, willed to in play here probably include: for a particular purpose; wondrous works, do you introduce your- do for the benefi t of those who had been providentially; according to the dispensation of the self to us as the author of more novel doc- Incarnation, by way of accommodation. The meaning called out of bondage. Therefore, what is made clear by the quote from Jesus that follows. 57. John 15:22. 58. Luke 8:17. Continued on the next page 61 St. Cyril on John’s Gospel and the benefi cence of the Lord of all, from the land of Egypt, the whole congre- Continued from page 61 you have meted out with most petty lim- gation of the children of Israel were mur- they were impiously imagining, Christ its. For with no slight folly, you suppose muring against Moses and Aaron, and the very resolutely cuts away; for to attribute that the manna is the bread from heaven, children of Israel said to them, “Would we things which befi t and are due to the di- although it fed only the race of the Jews had died smitten by the Lord in the land vine nature alone, to the honor of men in the wilderness, while there are other of Egypt, when we sat by the fl esh-pots, and not rather to It, how is not this replete innumerable nations besides, throughout and ate bread to satiety! For you have with folly and impiety alike? And in that the world. And you supposed that God brought us out into this wilderness, to he deprived the hierophant Moses of the willed to display a lovingkindness so re- kill all this congregation with hunger.”64 miracle, and withdrew it out of his hand, stricted as to give food to one people only So the matter of the history is clear and I suppose it is manifest that he rather at- (for these were types of universalities, very plain, and I do not think it needs any tributes the glory of it to himself together and in the partial was a setting forth of his words to test the obvious meaning; but we with the Father, even though he abstained general munifi cence, as a sort of pledge, will speak of it, looking only to the spiri- from speaking more openly, because of to those who fi rst received it); but when tual meaning. the uninstructedness of his hearers. For it the time of the truth was at our doors, My The children of Israel then, while was something truly not contrary to ex- Father gives you the bread from heaven, still in the country of the Egyptians, by pectation that they might rage as though which long ago had been portrayed to divine command were keeping their feast Moses were insulted by such words, and them in shadows in the gift of the manna. symbolically to Christ, and having taken might be infl amed into intemperate anger, For let no one think, he says, that that was their supper of the lamb, in that manner never inquiring what the truth was, nor in truth the bread from heaven, but rather they with diffi culty escape the tyranny recognizing the dignity of the speaker, but let him give his judgment in favor of that of Pharaoh’s rule and shake off the in- thoughtlessly acting only on the need to which is clearly able to feed the whole tolerable yoke of bondage. Then having honor Moses — unreasonably, as it hap- earth, and to give life in full to the world. miraculously crossed the Red sea, they pened, when he was compared with what Therefore he accuses the Jew of cleav- came into the wilderness, and famishing excelled him. ing to the typological observances, and there, they craved fl esh to eat, and were Therefore let us learn, with more refusing to search out the beauty of the dragged down to the accustomed desire judgment and reason, to practice respect Truth. For that was not, properly speak- for food; and so they began murmuring towards our holy fathers and to render, as ing, the manna, but the only-begotten against Moses and they fall into repent- it is written, fear to whom fear, honor to Word of God himself, who comes from ing of their free gift from God, when they whom honor.59 For we shall in no way do the essence of the Father, since he is by should have given no small thanks for it. harm if we render what fi ttingly belongs nature life and gives life to all things. For Egypt, then, will be darkness, and will to each, since the spirits of the prophets since he sprang from the living Father, he signify the condition of the present life, are subject to the Prophets,60 but when also is by nature life, and since the work and the worldly state in which we, being any discourse about our Savior Christ is of that which is by nature life is to quick- enrolled as in some state, serve a bitter entered into, then we need to say, For who en, Christ quickens all things. For as our serfdom there, achieving nothing at all to- in the clouds shall be compared to the earthly bread which is obtained from the wards God, but only fulfi lling the works Lord? and who among the sons of God earth does not permit the frail nature of most delightful to the devil, and jumping shall be likened to the Lord?61 fl esh to waste away, so too, he, through down to the pleasures of impure fl esh, like the operation of the Spirit quickens our clay or stinking mud, enduring a miser- But my Father gives you the true bread spirit, and not only that, but also preserves able, unpaid, profi tless toil, and pursuing from heaven. “For the bread of God is he the body itself, unto incorruption.63 a wretched (so to speak) love of pleasure. who comes down from heaven and gives But since our meditations have en- But when the law of God speaks to life to the world.” (John 6:32-33) tered upon the subject of manna, I think our soul, and we behold presently the It was necessary not only to remove it will not be amiss for us to consider, and bitter bondage of these things, then, O Moses from the power appropriate to God speak a little on it also, bringing forward then, thirsting after departure from all according to their conception,62 and to out of the Mosaic books themselves sev- evil, do we come to Christ himself, as to show that he was a minister of that mirac- erally the things written on this subject. the beginning and door of freedom, and, ulous working, rather than the bestower of For in this way, having stated the matter provisioned with the security and grace it, but also to lessen the wonder that mi- most clearly, we will rightly discern each that come through his precious blood, we raculously came to pass, and to show that of the things signifi ed by this. But through leave the carnal condition of this life, as it was nothing at all in comparison with them all, we will show that the true manna a kind of troublesome and stormy sea, the greater. For imagine Christ calling out is Christ himself, apprehended spiritually, and, out of all the tumult of the world, we something like this: You count, sirs, great as given to them of old under the fi gure of presently reach a more spiritual and purer things among the small and the pettiest, manna by the God and Father. state, as it were sojourning in the wilder- Now the beginning of the oracles ness. 59. Rom. 13:7. 60. 1 Cor. 14:32. speaks in this way: On the fi fteenth day, 64. Exod. 16:1-3. To be continued. 61. Psa. 88(89):6 Lxx. in the second month after their departure Based on the Pusey translation, 62. according to their conception: i.e., which he according to their conception possessed. 63. aphtharsian. The word also means “immortality.” with revisions. 62 Archpriest Joseph Martin Celebrates Fortieth Anniversary

etropolitan Herman and Bishop Tikhon concelebrated the Divine MLiturgy on Sunday November 20, 2005 at Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral, as the parish honored its pastor, Archpriest Joseph Martin on his 40th an- niversary of ordination to the holy priest- hood. Also participating in the services were Protopresbyter Robert Kondratick, Fathers Joseph Martin, Paul Ropitsky, Angelo Estrada-Rea, Theodore Orzolek, David Shewczyk, and James Weremedic, and Archdeacon Alexei Klimitchev, and Protodeacons Keith Russin and Sergei Kapral. Members of the cathedral choir and the Wyoming Valley Orthodox Christian Choir provided the singing, directed by Reader David Kessler. Protodeacon Sergei was awarded the kamilavka by Bishop Tikhon during the service for his efforts on behalf of the par- ish and the Orthodox Church in America. After the liturgy, a service of thanks- giving was offered for Father Joseph and Matushka Gloria and their fam- ily. Metropolitan Herman presented them with a gramota from the Holy Synod of Bishops and an icon of St. Tikhon. Elena Martin presented a bouquet of roses to His Beatitude on behalf of Father’s grandchildren, and Tatiana Kessler pre- sented one to Bishop Tikhon on behalf of the parish children. The children greeted Metropolitan Herman in procession and escorted him to church. After the services, a banquet was held Fr. Bob Kondratick served as master at Genetti’s Hotel and Convention cen- of ceremonies and kept the program mov- ter in Wilkes-Barre with 200 guests at- ing. Protodeacon Keith Russin offered a tending, including deanery and diocesan toast in which he enumerated the many clergy, parishioners, Fr. Joseph’s family virtues which Father Joseph possesses and friends, representatives from the VA and manifests in his ministry, among them Medical Center where Father is a chaplain, love, kindness, peace, gratitude, sharing, the John Heinz Rehabilitation Center, the caring, soulfulness, and mercy. Lions Club, and the city of Wilkes-Barre. Mr. John Zimich offered words on Marianne Sailus, from the Pastoral Care behalf of the parish noting that Father Group at John Heinz offered piano selec- tions before and during the banquet. Continued on the next page 63 Archpriest Joseph Martin Continued from page 63 has his hand on just about everything, helping with all the projects. He also commented on Father’s community in- volvement and his involvement with St. Tikhon’s Monastery for the Memorial Day Pilgrimage. Metropolitan Herman, who was a classmate of Fr. Joe’s at St. Tikhon’s Seminary offered his congratulations and thanked Fr. Joe and Matushka for their untiring service to their parishes, the diocese, St. Tikhon’s Seminary and Monastery, and the national Church. Bishop Tikhon stated he has known Fr. Joseph for about 10 years, and thanked him for his efforts on behalf of the mon- astery brotherhood and his services to the seminary and the diocese. Father Vladimir Fetcho, dean of the Wilkes-Barre deanery offered his congratulations on behalf of the deanery clergy and personally as a friend for many years. Wilkes-Barre city councilman James McCarthy presented several proclama- tions to Father Joe on behalf of city coun- cil, the mayor, the county commission- ers, and the U.S. Congress and Rep. Paul Kanjorski. Vera Timko presented Fr. Joe with an icon of Christ from his home parish of Holy Ascension in Frackville, Pa. Father Joseph thanked everyone for port. He thanked Metropolitan Herman banquet decorations as well as the fl owers such a wonderful day. He thanked his and Bishop Tikhon for taking the time in Church and the program booklet. Fr. mother for showing him that hard work from their busy schedules to be with him Joseph presented everyone in attendance has its own reward and that serving his and his fellow clergy for their support. He with an icon card in remembrance of this Church is an honor as well as a duty. He gave recognition to the parish council, the special day. thanked his wife and children for being committee who worked so hard for the there at his side for work as well as sup- celebration, and Andrew Buleza for the

Do not treat your conscience with dishonor, for it always gives you the most excellent ad- vice. It suggests to you the divine and angelic choice, and frees you from secret de lements of the heart; and at your departure, it grants you con dence and freedom of approach toward God. —St. Maximus the Confessor

If one is weak, then it is especially pro table to pay attention to the witness of your con- science, so that it may free your soul from all condemnation, so that upon reaching the end of your life, you may not be destined to repent uselessly and to lament eternally. —St. Peter of Damascus From the Philokalia

64 John Smakula Berwick, Pa. Christ is Born! Laura Smakula Holy Annunciation Church Michael & Dorothy StaN niak Father James & Matushka Lisa Joseph & Emma StaN niak Tamara, Jordan & Zachary Beckley Elizabeth Hahalis Michele StaN niak Mary & Alex Berbick Helen Haney Stephen & Jen StaN niak & Andi Helen Beily Elizabeth Hasenecz Boris & Vera Stoianche9 Mary K. Burns Nadine & Elias Hasenecz Julia Strohl Jean Husak Doctors Julius & Anna Herz Olga Sviatko Joan & Michael Kost Mr & Mrs Donald Holobeny & Daniel Ola Tatusko Kathy & Lee Kuchka Mary Holva Wash & Helen Telepchak Gloria Kundrat Mary Howell & Sons Jason & Keri Tomsic Diane, Tom & Alyssa Macri Mary Hudak Mr & Mrs James Weida Mary Maholick Mr & Mrs Michael Isbansky Dr. Thomas J. Weida & Family E; e Mavrelos Dr. & Mrs. Gary Jenkins Rosemary Ziegenfuss Helen & Frank Petak Peter Jubinski Michael Charles Petak Sarah Jubinski Catasauqua, Pa. Lisa, Tom, Gabriella & Gianna Popko Dr. Peter Daniel Jubinski Holy Trinity Church John Shirley Rosemary Jubinsky Fr. Timothy Hasenecz Mary Takacs Mrs. Helen Karel Reader Michael & Vincentine Brusko James & Victoria Weremedic Mrs. Mary Kasander Je9 rey J. Kasander, D.M.D. Edward & Pauline Bachert JoAnn Yurconic Bethlehem, Pa. Eric Kasander Randy & Stephanie McCormick, Angela, Christopher St. Nicholas Church Jim & Nadia Kelly Mary Yurconic St. Nicholas Altar Society Mr & Mrs Peter Keretz Vince Fugazzotto, Blaise Sarah Jubinski, President Bill & Sandi Keysock & Family Nicki Fugazzotto, Blaise St. Nicholas Church Choir Nicholas Keysock Patrick Kelleher Nicholas Lezinsky, Director Albert & Esther Kiechel Kiprian & Sherri Fedetz, Alex, Andrew St. Nicholas O Club Gary Kiechel Steve & Barbara Symanovich Dennis Chrush, President Mr & Mrs Peter Kohudic Michael & Carol Limar, Matt, Tom V. Rev. Dimiti & Matushka Mary Ann Oselinsky Selar & JoAnn Konsevitch Anna Katchur V. Rev. & Mrs. Thomas Edwards Mr & Mrs Gregory Konsevitch & Family Trevor & Dana Heckman, Alexis, Joshua V. Rev. & Mrs. James Mason Olga Kozachonok Jack & Sandy Miller Reader Andrew Fartuch & Family Rebecca Kriebel Christopher & Nina Bagshaw, Halle, Andrew Reader Paul & Lili Gaynor Joanne Kuhns Richard & Jean Garrison Reader Bartholomew & Michele Lovell Dr. Michael Kuchka Helen Haas Reader Nicholas & Judith Lezinsky Mr & Mrs Austin Kurisco Mary & Joseph Horoschak Reader William & Barbara Podlusky & Family Kyra, Matthew, Peter Lezinsky William & Christine Reynolds, William, Ste9 any Gary & Marie Angstadt & Sons Lichak Family Rebecca Romanchik Mr & Mrs Ray Benensky & Alexander Lichtenwalner Family Dr. Serges & Fay Salivonchik Martha Billy A Friend Mary Yuhas Mr & Mrs Gerard Bobal & Family Anna Mankowski Pat Wasko Mrs. Patricia Brandstetter Mr & Mrs Randall Marsh & Family Sean & Christine Bullinger Barry & Ann Marie Bretz Eugenia Meilinger Joe & Haydee Miller, Elizabeth Dr. & Mrs. Gregory Brusko Mr & Mrs Peter Metz & Family Gary & Connie Solan, Casi, Nicholas G. Damian Brusko Mr & Mrs John Mikita Mary Baker Cameron Nicholas Brusko Mrs. Helen Mohr Sue Cressman Helen Butch Mr & Mrs John Monarek & Family Charles & Helen Gaston Therese Kasmer Butler Jim & Rachel Morissette Michael Gaston, Lucas, Michael Natalie Butler Mrs. Theresa Nalepa Ed & Holly Bachert, Zachary, Isaac, Nathaniel, Madeline Nicholas Butler Bill, Susan & Elizabeth Nielsen Bob & Cheryl Steck, Cassia Joseph & Jean Butrymowicz Robert & Ellen Novatnack & Family David & Danielle Bachert, Cidney, Micah Nicole Campbell Mr & Mrs Ray Pasquel Susan Greitzer Charlotte Carney Eleanor M. Phillips Jim & Helen O’Brien, Kelly, Melissa Christopher Carney Mr & Mrs Joseph M. Pinkowicz & Family Sonya Gerhard Joseph & Teresa Carney & Son Cyril, Valeria, Andrej, Anna Quattrone Don & Gail Ortner, Alex Sgt Nicholas & Patricia Carney Mrs. Pauline Radchuk Sophie Katchur Paul Chernay Mary Radick Anna Lalo Greg & Cindy Chernay Dr. & Mrs. Gregory Radio Helen Suda Lorraine Chromiak Scott & Amy Radio Mildred Bowski Dennis Chrush Ethan Scott & Kayleigh Helen Fritzinger Lynn Chrush Mary Radio David Danielle Bachert, Cindi, Micah Alyssa Chrush Laura Riley Trudy Ellmore Natalie Danczenko Valerie Ristvey Mr & Mrs Dennis Danko & Family Mr & Mrs George Ristvey Coaldale, Pa. Larry & Irene Davis Gordon & Valerie Roberts St. Mary’s Church Michael & Mary Dorosh Matthew, Alexander, & Nicholas Roberts Rev. Andrew, Mat. Suzanna & Fam Michael J. & Toni Dorosh Mr & Mrs Nicholas Roman Michael Bench Damian A. Drasher Alex & Gregory Roman Gloria Bench Ted & Betty Fedora Nancy A. Sabol Helen Berezniak Patty Felix John Saharuk Harry Bialis John & Olga Frimenko Mrs. Olga Sawarynski William Bybel Mr.& Mrs. James Gallop Patrick & Cate Shea Stephanie Chmel Mr & Mrs Walter Grigoruk In Memory of Alexandra Schichalew Analisha & Vanessa Christman Mr & Mrs Glenn Guanowsky Helen Schweisgut Melanie & David Christman Taras Guanowsky Mr & Mrs James Seifert & Family Ray & Mary Jo Danchak Yuri Guanowsky Mr & Mrs Joseph Senick & Family John & Mary Evetushick Mr & Mrs Alan Guiducci & Family Joseph Senick III Mr & Mrs Michael Slivka, Eric & Peter Katherine & Josiah Fegley

65 Christ is Born! Julia Forte Mrs. Sophie Pellock Barbara Bench Gallagher Mary Ann Congdon Fran & Dorothy Miller Olga Hebda Catherine Conick Baskey Family Catherine Hedes Louise & Henry Gosh Olga & Jim Hreshko Marie O. Kalavritinos Anne Janusz Julia Centek Olga Kash Rosemary Jubinski Helen King Ti9 any Kilmer Gradyville. Pa. Wash King Larissa & Sam Laing St. Herman of Alaska Church John A. King In mem. Mary & Thomas Mikolaichik V. Rev. John & Matushka Eugenia Perich John & Dorothy King Kathryn Owens V. Rev. Nicholas & Matushka Vera Yushchak Russell King George & Dee Sheypuk Taisia & Alexandra Perich Geri King Joseph Shipsky Sonya Perich Ann Kononchuk Mary Steponaitis Susan Pasqualone Michael Lorchak Elizabeth Wargo Chrysa Pasqualone Nancy Lorchak Stephen Wargo Xenia Bancer Ted & Pauline Lorchak Yvonne & John Wargo Francis Plasha Mary Lutash Janice Witko Millie Sokol Ben & Olga Macalush Anna Wolfe Reader Gregory & Sharon Hubiak Pauline Maholick Ronald Wolfe Katya & Alexander Hubiak Paul & Kay Maliniak Martha Woytowich George & Anastasia Plisko Helen K. Ostrosky Donald Zaboltsky John W. Weaver Joe & Melanie Preschutti Patricia Zimowski Serge & Svetlana Taptyko9 Douglas & Mary Ellen Rudenko John, Dina, Amanda & Alexander Prokop Mary Anne & Andy Toroney Nicholas, Julia & Andrew Rudenko Frackville, Pa. Stephen M. Sissons Larissa Seneres Holy Ascension Church Christel & George Krugovoy Helen Scheese Fr. Barnabas, Mat. Daria & Myra Fravel Alex & Peg Hendrick John & Eleanor Sidoriak Nicholas Tatusko Family Judith T. Newell Olga Sidoriak Sergius & Sandy Chrush Mrs. Janie M. George Ann Slanta Dr. & Mrs. Richard Chwastiak Anna C. Woodring Martha & Simon StaN niak Richard & Nicole Chwastiak Wayne & Olga Anderson, Veronika Martynova Nick & Martha Teno Mary & David A. Keysock Bill & Jeanne Sokurenko Jesse & Melissa Weidaw Michael & Helen Onuskanich Mr & Mrs George Taylor & Sons Oiga Weiss Eva Boniscavage Theresa Veronick Harry Wyshosky, Jr. Mr & Mrs Harry Buchanan & Family Dan Chobany Mary Yelsh Anna Martin Jim Chobany Richard G York Paul Martin The Lynch Family Ron & Marie Yurchak Mel Martin The Hammerer Family Mary K. Zemanik Mr & Mrs John Semanchick Genie Horsky Paul Malinchok Valentina & Jonathan Rhodes Coatesville, Pa. John & Nancy Malinchok Sarah & Alexa Rhodes St. Nicholas Church Mat. Helen & Christina Kuchta Lydia P. Tichy Fr. Joseph, Mat. Kathy & Family Mr & Mrs Donald Bricker The Babiak Family Altar Boys Mr & Mrs Shawn Kane, Joshua,Rebecca Frank & Judy Di Maggio Church Choir Gregory, Rita & Greg Tatusko Nicholas & Loretta Hrntez Reader John Zatyczyc Olga Williams Anna Andrusichen Paul StaN niak Reader John Kosturos Peter Rachko Donna, Jim, Christa, & Cayla Guzewski George Babich Jean & Frank Holowaty Martin & Ann Kelley & Family Mary Collier & Family Vera & Pat Kleman Daria, Tony, Natlya & Michael Tatasciore Louis Gehas Mary Di9 enderfer Jim & Magda Gehas Anna Dikun Harrisburgh, Pa. Nanette Hare & Family Sophie Osenbach Christ the Saviour Church Vera Hatcher Mary Torick Archpriest & Mrs. Daniel D. Ressetar Lula Kopturos Helen Polanchyck Archpriest & Mrs. Michael G. Kovach Nick & Popi Kousisis Mr & Mrs Tom Fletcher Archpriest & Mrs. Neal Carrigan Nina Petro & Son John Sara & Alexa Fletcher Subdeacon & Mrs. Richard Hathaway Nicholas & Ann Ruczhak Alex & Anna Peleschak Mr & Mrs Roy Ambartsumian Charles Sarosi & Family David, Stephen & Sandra Peleschak Mr. Sebatu Andemichael Michael Sarosi Anna Sowachak Mr. James Antonio Jr. Georgette Sarosi Mary Reed Mrs. Sylvester Barbu Peter Skiadas Olga Chrush Mr. John R. Barns Voula Skiadas Mr & Mrs Michael Cuttic Mr & Mrs Daniel Bretz Ted & Martha Skiadas Larissa Holowaty Mr & Mrs Willard Brown David & Maria Stau9 er & Alyasa Peter & Marie Weremedic Mr & Mrs John Buddwalk Peter & E; e Suokos Peter Weremedic Jr. Mr. John Caba Jr. Mike & Maria Toth & Sons Michael & Rosanne Weremedic Mrs. Marina Cameron Ann Wilson John, Elizabeth & Madeline Wittig Mr & Mrs Mark Chapman Michael Weremedic Mr. George Charlock DundaF , Pa. Carole Sagan Mr & Mrs Bogdan Ciocirlan St. John the Baptist Church Theresa Basara Mr & Mrs Gerald Cole V. Rev. Dionysius & Matushka Marion Swencki Mr. Michael Kasmer Mr. George Cvijic Mary Allen Vera M Timko Mrs. Betty Danko Tammy Anderline & Family Elizabeth Yust Mr & Mrs John Dedyo Philip & Nadine Belejchak Olga Chuma Miss Susan Demchak John Jacob Bidgood Mary Trynosky Mr. Zekerias Dermas Eugenia Congdon Pauline & Richard Zimmerman Greg & Kim Congdon & Casey Barbara Examitas

66 Mrs. Lode DiClemente Daryl & Jerry Bescovoyne Mr. Joshua DiFlorio Glorify Him! Wendy & Serge Bochnovich & Family Mrs. Anna K Doray Eileen & Ed Brzuchalski Dennis & Sonia Buberniak Mr & Mrs John Dotsey Vasilij Neveselij Dave & Ann Butler Mr. Paul Dotsey Mr & Mrs David Newhouse David J., David Jr. & Josh Butler Ms Susan Dotsey Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Norato Patricia, Tom & Tommy Cadwalader Mrs. Paul Drebot Mrs. Evelyn Onufer Sandy & Kevin Carney & Family Mr & Mrs Paul Drebot Mr & Mrs John Osuch, Jr. Sandy & Je9 Cavanaugh & Sons Mr. Terry Drebot Mrs. Katherine Pankiw Sharon & Randy Cleary & Family Mr. Thomas Drebot Mrs. Rita Papach Denise Cobb & Kyle Mr. Robert Drozd Dr. David Pawlush Eva Demchak Mr. Joseph Dudick Mr. Michael G. Pawlush Marie Derkasch Mr. David Dugan Mr & Mrs Paul Pellegrini Stephen & Chris Derkasch Mr & Mrs Kesete Embaye Mr. Nicholas Pestrock Dr. & Mrs. William Derkasch Mrs. Marianne English Mrs. Katherine Pilc William, Courtney & Alexa Derkasch Mr & Mrs David Essis Mr. Carl Polansky Delores Dreater Mr & Mrs Michael Essis Mrs. Christine Priggins Kaye Fedirko Mr & Mrs Salem Essis Mr. Alexander Ressetar Donald & Rosalie Fives Mr. Johnny Farrow Mr. Gregory Ressetar Annabelle Franchak Mr. Joseph Fatula Mr. Nicholas Ressetar Alexandra Gardecki Mr & Mrs Andrew Fedetz Mrs. Agnes Risser Vasili Gardecki Mr. Timothy Fedetz Mr. John Rodak Joseph Getzie Mr. H. Gebreselassie / Y. Tesfaao Mr. Mark Rodak Nicholas Getzie Mr & Mrs Romaz Geguchadze Miss Cindy Royer Peter Getzie Mr & Mrs Kidane Ghebremichael Mr. Joseph Russian Chris & Rebecca Goetter Mrs. Saba Ghebremichael Mr. George Salloum Tom & Helen Grancey Mr & Mrs Pad Hadginske Dr. & Mrs. Petru Sandu Dorothy & Andy Hanchak Miss Bethann Hancher Mr & Mrs Russell Sass Julia Hanchak Mr. David Hancher Mr & Mrs John Schilling Sr. Mary Kay & John Hockin Capt. Ronald Hancher, Jr Mr. Michael Schubert Wenona & John Hockin Mr & Mrs Ronald Hancher Sr. Mrs. Kristen Seitz Jon, Debby & Jonathan Jaye Mrs. Christine Hardenstine Miss Larissa Shuga Olga Jaye Mr & Mrs Richard Harrison Miss Basima Shunnara Rose Kelechawa Mr & Mrs George Hatalowich Miss Salwa M. Shunnara Henry & Simone Korpusik Mrs. Maria W. Hebda Mr & Mrs Frank Skirpan Jeremi & Nicole Korpusik Mr & Mrs James Henry Mr. Lawrence Smith Mary & Henry Korpusik Mr & Mrs Cad Hisiro Mr. Nicholas Somple Thelma Koval & Family Ms. Sheena Hisiro Mr. Andrew Spase9 Irene Kupinski Mrs. Elizabeth Howe Mrs. E; e Spase9 Maria & Nicholas Landi Mrs. Marie Intrieri Mrs. Marie Spase9 Joan Lasichak Mrs. Dee Jubb Mrs. Margaret Spase9 John Lasichak Mrs. Kathleen Kalina Mr & Mrs Basil Sumple Ruth Lasichak Mr & Mrs William Kantor Mr & Mrs Nicholas Sutovich Jr Daria Lehman Mr & Mrs George Kaznowsky Mr & Mrs Harry Sysak Stephen Malec Mrs. James Kem Mr. Matthew Sysak Dr. Cindy & Michael Mancini Mr & Mrs George Krempasky Miss Ruth Sysak David & Domanica Mancini Mr. James Krut Mr & Mrs Maksym Szewcyk Sam & JoAnn Mattise Mr & Mrs Basil Kuchta Mr. Jamie Tale9 Mark & Nicole Melesky Miss Katherine Kuchwara Mrs. June Tale9 Scott & Paula Melesky Atty. & Mrs. John S. Kundrat Mr & Mrs Peter Taletf, Jr Tom Meredith Mrs. Helen Kurylo Mrs. Helen Tatusko Ann & Ed Narcoonis Mr & Mrs Alex Kuzupas Mr. Grigori Ter-Arakelov John & Barbara Nayduch Mrs. Elena V. MacDonald Mrs. Natalie Treece Justine Orlando Mrs. Stephen Macut Mrs. Anne D. Trunk John & Patsy Pash Mrs. Gloria Maliniak Mrs. Jane A. Volscko Stephanie & Rob Pliska & Family Mr. Adam Mallick Ms. Noells Webb Willard Puzza Mr & Mrs Michael Mallick Mr & Mrs Ronald Webb Susan Schlasta & Family Mrs. Lydia Mantle Mrs. Joanne Wevodau Adam & Mary Ann SeraN ni Mr. David Martin Mrs. Maryann White Delores Sernak Mrs. Maryann Mawhinney Mrs. Mildred Wolfe John Sernak Mr. Joseph Mazurek Ms. Susan Wolfe Mary Sernak Mrs. Deborah McGinnes Miss Marianne Wood Ron, Lorraine & Ann Sernak Mr. Douglas McGinnes Mr & Mrs Richard Wood Delores Serniak Miss Megan McGinnes Mr. Stephen Wood Steven & Kathy Serniak Mrs. Angela McGreevy Mrs. Helen Yannone Anastasia Sloat Mrs. Christine McKeown Mrs. Mary Young Jerry & Marilyn Soroka & Family Mrs. Thomas Middlesworth Mrs. Michael Zart Bob & Julie Speicher Mr. John Midlick Mr & Mrs Aghesom T. Zerezgi John Susko Mrs. Sonya Miete Mr & Mrs Michael Zuro Mr & Mrs Michael Mihalaki, Sr. Irene Swirdovich Col. (R) Peter & Martha Telencio Mr & Mrs Roger Miller Jermyn, Pa. Damian & Stephen Telencio Dr. Paul G. Miller St. Michael’s Church Millie Telep Mr. Jonathan Minarich Father John & Matushka Kowalczyk, Sophia & Nicky Mary Wyziak Mr. Eli Mio9 Father Gabriel & Matushka Petorak Joanne Yurchak Mrs. Jo-Ann Nesko Father Vasili & Matushka Gilbert (Salem, MA) Julia Zaccone Dr. John D. Nester Andrea & Je9 Baldan & Family Peter D. Zaccone Miss Christine Neumann Debby Bernosky & Family

67 Mary Zielinski Christ is Born! Old Forge, Pa. Betty Zrowka St. Michael’s Church Dorothy Zrowka Fr. David & Mat. Karen Maha9 ey Karen Simons V. Rev. Theodore Orzolek Lykens, Pa. Timothy McMahon V. Rev. Elias Krenitsky Holy Ascension Church Leo & Marlene Washburn St. Michael’s Altar Boys V. Rev. John & Matushka Daria Mason Gary & Carol Kneiss St. Michael’s Church Choir V. Rev. & Mat. Sonya Evans Lauren, Rachel, & Elizabeth Kneiss St. Michael’s Church School Margaret Carl The Gaither Family The Parish Council John H. & Nancy Coles The Makosky Family Nikolas Maha9 ey John M. & Christopher Coles Elena Kurylo Michael Maha9 ey Warren & Irene Giordano Chris & Derek Givler Seth Maha9 ey Michael Leshko Kyra Maha9 ey Ann Mahoney Minersville, Pa. Kate, David, Alexa & Adam Barsigian Dr. Alexander & Katherine Pianovich Saints Peter & Paul Church Margaret & Jacob Barsigian Dr. Paul & Jane Pianovich Fr. Michael & Matushka Hatrak Sandra & John Barsigian Alex & Stephen Pianovich James & Anna Antonio Helen Chesniak William & Susan Pinkerton John & Gloria Barnetsky Nicole, Lyndsey & Tyler Cochrane Ann Sovich JoAnn Brinich Mr & Mrs William Condon Nicholas Sovich, Jr. Ralph & Kathy Brinich David, Lana & David Paul Cushner John, Elizabeth, Andrew, Gayle Sultzbaugh Charowsky Family John & Margaret Cushner John & Judy Sweikert Adam Frantz, Jenn & Je9 Doyle Bernie, Bev, Nick & Steph Elko George Tiazkun Susie & Jim Frew Maria Emily & Jake Helen Timko Elsie Herman Neal & Ann Freeman Patti & Joseph Welsh Rick, Lynda, Lauren & Ricky Hutton Peter Gyza Kathleen Welsh Olga Kirkauskas Peter, Jr. & Jan Gyza George & Helen Sass Lydia & John Malusky Jennifer & Michelle Gyza Nadia Sass Harry & Peggy Oakill Mrs. Nicholas Halchak Luke & Theresa Oakill Aleck Jadick McAdoo, Pa. Michael & Lisa Pascuzzo David Jadick Holy Trinity Church Christian & SoN a Pascuzzo Michael & Margaret Jadick Fr. Walter & Matushka Nancy Smith Mike, Barb & Cassandra Rogers Nancy Jurnack Flora Smith Stablum Family Al & Mary Krenitsky Helen Cortez David & Georgine Studlack Harry & Mary Krevko Pearl Elko Anna & Sandra Wyslutsky Gregory Krevko Anna Fanelli Tina Ludwig Rosella Gardecki Mt. Carmel, Pa. Rose Macheska Mary Ann Graino St. Michael’s Church Nadia Macheska Zenovia Galagotis V. Rev. Michael & Matushka Sonya Evans Joseph & Ann Marie Macijowsky Joseph Jevit Anna Gondal Ned & Martha Matechak Michael & Michelle Klesh Leon Markovich Scott & Anne Peatross Anna Mae Kuklis Dorothy Beckus Michael & Sara Peatross Daniel Kurtz Catherine Hardnock Lovie & Ann Peregrim Anna Kurtz Ben & Millie Trefsgar Margaret & Walter Pregmon Douglas & Jen Kurtz Sandra Sebasovich William Pregmon Greg, Cathy, Carrie, Alyssa & Greg Kurtz Theresa Pochekailo Al & Mary Pritchyk Mike & Jan, Michael, Jr. Kurtz Marie Cu9 Irene & John Pritchyk Anna Lazur John Chidovich Walter Pritchyk Daniel Oneschuck Charles Chidovich, Sr. George & Marilyn Serniak Tague Osadche Olga Berkoski Sebastian & Adrian Serniak Helen Osuch Jean & Chris Mathias Stephen & Amanda Serniak Jack, Mariah, Sarah, Anna & Eva Oliveri Margaret Olaf Stephen & Ingrid Serniak Cindy Polli Catherine Sha9 chick Ann Tyrpak Lonnie Polli T.P. Alekseyko Stephen & Jennifer Yokimishyn Kim, Alexander & Stephen Pyle Julia Bushick Anna Zupko Sophie & Clark Shuman Ann Tanney Annette & Paul Smerkanich Eveann Shamus Olyphant, Pa. Mary Stronko Adam Leschinsky All Saints Church Irene Yaworsky Ermie & Maryann Hill Priest Paul & Matushka Michelle Fetsko Mr & Mrs Michael Zabitchuck Paul Wislock Justine Horhutz Mr & Mrs Joseph Tosca Mr & Mrs Michael Kuzmiak Mechanicsburg, Pa. Deanna Ciocco Maria Oles Holy Apostles Mission Stephanie Peek Eleanor Krushinski Fr. Timothy & Matushka Anastasia Hojnicki Stan & Vera Zbicki Barbara Puhalla Dennis & Alice Hair Mary Zeluskey Helen Bryer Joe & Linda Kurtz & Sons Christine Buchkarik Mary Jane & Tanya Gilbert Joe & Pauline Fetsko George Panikarchick Stephana Brutchko Bob & Galina Larson Bernie & Tanya Malkoski Claudia Mikulak Margaret Balog Florence Bubernak Elizabeth Generotti Metro Petrosky, Jr. Peter Yastishak David & Mary Brzuchalski David Antonishek Mary Homicz Michael Stuchlak Symeon & Rebecca Jekel Brock Bridy Linda Stuchlak Mark & Barbara Linnehan Olga Paduhovich Joseph & Helen Semon Margot & Michael Katcher James Rebuck Harry & Elizabeth Humyak John & Angela Costas Deborah Rebuck Mike & Sonia Presty Elizabeth Hansburg Alexandra Rebuck Ann & Joe Schlasta Rachel Rebuck

68 In memory of Mary Stafursky Glorify Him! Nichole Lampreich Peter & Joni Rezanka & Family Peter & Martha Linski Elena Litvak Steve & Pat Stafursky Michael McCartney Ken Stafursky Sonia, Larissa & Michael, Jr. Mariani Ruthann Mohnach Marge Maurer Dan & Susan Stafursky Nina & Natalie Patterson Samantha, Stephanie, & Zachary Tatiana Michousta David Pellack Anna Miller Olga & Vera Paulishak Margaret Pellack James & Ceil Castellano Christine Nass Catherine Petrascu Janice Nass John & Peg Puthorosky Joseph Rabik Marguerite Puthorosky Phil & Irene O’Brien & Dasha Nancy Brasko-Rabik Olga Oprouseck Ashley Puthorosky Joseph, Kathy & Anasiasia Renzetti James & Donna Specht Catherine Paulasack Daniel Riley Helen Plunkett Kyra, Cheslea & Ian Specht Helen Riley Ken & Stacey Kashuba & Children Heinz & Tamara Poessl Mary Robovitsky Stephan & Marge Pron Florence Savchak Larissa Pron Olyphant, Pa. Alex Soroka St. Nicholas Church Stephan Pron Olga Vail Kathie & Sergio Rabaca Fr. Vladimir Fetcho Ann Varhula Matushka Marianne Fetcho Tom, Nina, Nicholas, Deanna & Victoria Rapak Helen & Timothy Wanenchak Peter & Heather Ren Julie & Richard Cesari Michael J Wanenchak Jonathan & James Cesari Katie & Holly Ren Michael Jr & Treasa Wanenchak Stephanie & Valerie Ristvey John & Josephine Chichilla Kathy Wanenchak Henry &Joan Derben Ralph, Irina, Daniel & Nikolai Rogers Robert Wanenchak John, Denise, Sonia & Michael Rowe Sylvia & Paul Dreater, Sr. Lisa Welle Capt. Paul & Lori Anne Dreater Anna D. Simpson Peter & Annamae Witiak Jr Joseph C. Simpson Kayla & Liam Evanina Daniel, Eleanor, Peter & Adam Witiak Joseph Fetchina Martha, Jack, Megan, Adam, Jacob & Amelia Sisko Dorothy Fetchina Larry, Connie, Jon & Chris Skvir Philadelphia, Pa. Joseph & Catherine Stearne Michael Grabania St. Stephen’s Cathedral Marie Grabania Walter & Carolyn Stephan-Stephanowich Fr. Victor, Matushka Anastasia, Elizabeth & Tatiana Stephanowich & Kristin LaMacchia Titiana & David B. Hughes Katherine Gorodenchuk George Kopestonsky Mary Suchniak Matushka Mary Fedoronko John & Helen Szulak Tom & Vera Price J. Wellington Adams Mr & Mrs Stephen Rebar Robert Gregory Tallick Atanas Atanasov Dr. Michael, Amelia, Michael & Natalie Taptyko9 Dr. & Mrs. Larry R. Sherman Barbara & Karen Belsito Eugene Strosky Eva & Bill Wasser Mr & Mrs Igor Bergners Irene Zaro9 James Thomashefsky Mary D. Birkenbach Helen Thomashefsky John & Anna Zwick Anna Cebular John Daniel Zwick Ann Thomashefsky Turko Paul Cholakis Mary Youshock Judy, Jack & Jennifer Clyde St. Clair, Pa. Charles & Halina Colter Holy Assumption Church Philadelphia, Pa. John & Kate Cox Holy Assumption Orthodox Church Fr. Michael & Matushka Hatrak Nicholas, Alexander & Andre Cox Lea Chrush V. Rev John Udics Nicholas Cronin Father Sergius Willis Tusha Dernbach Helen, Mark & Steve Davis & Family Marguerite Dimo9 Matuska Mildred Soroka Ray, Michele, Matthew & Natalie Decker David & Emelie Albrecht Tatiana He9 ner Willis & Lubie Dietrich Nancy & Shelby Jones Dr. David & Erin Albrecht Dr. George, Pauline & Margret Englesson Melanie Albrecht Jim & Ruthann Kerick Irene, Anthony & Alexandra Ferraro Steve & Justyna Pelak John & Helen Alexander Paul, Diane, Laura & John Fedoronko Norman, Barbara, Matthew, Christopher & David Marge Rosenberger Yelena Fedorova Ted & Jeanette Sagan Andrews Dr. Jack, Irene, Alexander, William Brasko Halina, Kyra & Sophia Forest Shillington, Pa. Emma Burychka Nina & Bill Gavula Julianne Carrol St. Herman of Alaska Church Michael & Matthew Gavula V. Rev & Mrs. John A. Onofrey Elizabeth R. Chadwick Olga Gazak Robert & Grace Corba The Parish Council Elisabeth Gentieu The Sunday School Teachers & Students Paul, Margaret & Madeline Chorney Anna M. Fedryck-Hargrave John, Lynn, John, Marc, & Justin Drimak The Our Lady of Kazan Sisterhood Agnes Herbut The Parish Choir Helen Dzuga Nicholas Horsky Anna Fedor Mr & Mrs Joseph Anderson & Family Nina Horsky Mr & Mrs Keith Bergan & Family Nicephorus Wilfred Frisby Andrei, Kathryn, Stefan & Peter Jablokov Julia Gavula Vera (Ressetar) Bortniak Katherine & Natalie Jadwin Wasil & Anne Boyko Edward & Patrica Gerasimo9 Arnold, Katherine, Anna & Alexa Jensky Emily Gerasimo9 Mr & Mrs Bret Challenger & Family Catherine & Leonard Jones Ms. Louise Coleman Simon & Mary Herbert Christopher, Michael & Nicholas Jones Daniel S. Herbert Mr & Mrs Dennis Dougherty & Family Lorraine & Harold Kane Mr & Mrs Michael Drenchko Sandra, Neil, Alex & Samantha Hourahan Nadia Kolesnik Julia Jugan John & Marie Drosdak Mr & Mrs John Kolesnik & Family Stephanie, Mark & Joshua Drosdak Albert & Catherine Kavalkovich Mr & Mrs Michael Kolesnik & Family Ken, Debra, Alex, & Anastasia Kavalkovich Pat & Bill Dudash Mr & Mrs Stephen Kolesnik & Family William M. Dudash Rick, Daria & Jason Leroy John Kozlowski Anna Mackiewicz Mr & Mrs Douglas Duriez & Daughters Bill & Sonia Kraftician Stephen Durniak John & Mary Makara Alex & Vaientina Kuzman Julia Maraiza Mrs. Gloria Duty & Adam Greg, Lydia, Kira, Nicholas & Gregory Kuzmanchuk Mr & Mrs Nicholas Ermolovich Mary Makara Helen Lackatos Anne McCartney Emily Anne Ermolovich Mikeal, Alyssa & Sarah Lampreich Mr & Mrs David Grim & Family

69 Lovey Klym Bill & Rosalie Hardrnan Christ is Born! Melanie McLaughlin Terry & Debbie Hojnowski Martha, Megan, Adam, Jacob & Amelia Sisko Mr. Walter Hojnowski Daniel Hretz Christina M & Elizabeth A. Proch Antoinette Terry Xenia Hretz Dr. David & Daria Roat Walter Terry & Family Mr & Mrs Edward Hyland Alexandra & Benjamin Roat Catherine, Dennis & Andy Yarosh Mr & Mrs Brad Kau9 man & Alex Jo Ann Somple Mrs. Helen Karel Jerome Tarris The Kawood Family Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Dr. & Mrs. Vadim Kurjanowicz South Canaan, Pa. Holy Resurrection Cathedral Mr & Mrs Bernard Kusior St. Tikhon’s Monastery Church Very Rev Joseph & Matushka Gloria Martin Reader & Mrs. Fred Leer & Family Metropolitan HERMAN Bishop TIKHON Marina & Elena Martin Daniel, Marina & Sophia Long Very Rev. Michael G. Dahulich Protodeacon Keith S Russin Mr & Mrs John Lorchak V. Rev. Daniel K. & Mat. Dolores Donlick Protodeacon Sergei & Matushka Vicki Kapral Michael & Vera Losk V. Rev. Alexander, Mat. Elena & Alex Golubov Matushka Olga Kapral Mrs. Irene Lupco Rev. Fr. Peter & Mat. Mary Lynn Henry Reader David & Kathryn Kessler John, Dana & Raymond MacKoul V. Rev. & Mrs. T. Stephen Kopestonsky David, Tatiana & Hannah Kessler Michael & Janice Mallick V. Rev. Michael Lepa Dr John & Cathy Haber & Family Mr & Mrs Steve Matsick Protodeacon Keith S. Russin Juliana & Je9 Good & Family Paul & Marie McCarty Reader Thomas Donlick Debbie Judd &- Sara Good John & Gertrude Melniczek Reader Gregory Hatrak Andrew Buleza Dr. & Mrs. John Melniczek & Family Reader Gregory Sulich Michael & Nancy Pieck Mr & Mrs Paul Melniczek Matushka Elizabeth Geeza Sylvester Dugan Reader George Nakonetschny Matushka Nina Stroyen Tom & Marguerite Czekalski Dr. & Mrs. Tony Ngo Matushka Dorothy Sulich Ray & Vera Kraynanski Mr & Mrs Karl Osterburg Marge Barna John & Doris Zoranski Mr. Terrell Owens Ted & Barbara Barna Kyra Zoranski George & Danielle Pahomov JoAnna Bell John & Irene Zimich Larissa Pahomov Alice Boga Mary Krill Ms. Camille Palese Michael Conrad Elizabeth Reese Mrs. Alexandra Prawlocki & Family Mr & Mrs John Creech & Katya Sandy Kapelan Mr & Mrs Joseph Reba & Family Mr & Mrs John Derk Myra Tarantini Matushka Margaret Ressetar Betty A. Figura Charles & Irene Urban Bob & Cheryl Rowe Drs. David & Mary Ford, & Emmelia Olga Layton Mrs. Ruth M. Ruth Bernadine Getzie Mary Onufer Paul & Amy Savage John Getzie Dolores Grabko Mr & Mrs David Scheese & Taylor Joseph Getzie Sandy King & Mike Cooper Mr & Mrs Walter Sebastian Mary Huniak & Family Walter & Zora Narko9 John & Lydia Seman Mr. & Mrs. J. Kuchmanich Ms. Alexandra Semion Metro Lazorack Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Mr & Mrs Nicholas Sichak & Family Peter & Cindy Lazorack Holy Trinity Church Mrs. Tina Snyder John & Mildred Naholnik Fr. David & Matushka Sharon Shewczyk Ms. Gloria Spitko & Kyra Mr & Mrs John W. Paluch Timothy & Nicholas Shewczyk Mr & Mrs Michael Talley & Jonathan Martin S. Paluch Anna Bromuko The Terenchin Family Jerusalem Pugh Liz & John Gurka Kyle, Daria & Zoe Elizabeth Teter Robert H. Roth William & Mary Gurka Mrs. Sharon VIasak George & Marilyn Serniak Anastasia & Bernard Golubiewski Mr & Mrs Steve Vlasak & Sons George, Gretchen & Sosnowski & Zoe Mrs. Robert T. Rhodes Mr & Mrs Eugene Wanenchak & Family Sandra Thorpe Mary & Stephen Krill Mr & Mrs Chip Weaver & Family Edward Wawrush Marianne & Jeremy Haugh Ryan & Traci Weinstein & Family Paul Wozniak Jeremiah Haugh Mrs. Deborah Wissler & Michael Lucas Charles & Gloria Yacovelli Helen & Peter Welgo Mr & Mrs Edward Yurick & Daughters In memory of Peter Pawlak Hank & Anne Zerbe Stroudsburg, Pa. Theresa Pawlak Holy Trinity Church Peter M. & Mary Jo Pawlak Simpson, Pa. Father & Matushka Nicholas J. Solak Andrew Dennis St. Basil the Great Church Reader David Mastroberte Jason & Colleen King V. Rev. Leo Poore David & Doreen Donlick Amber, Eva & Elilas King James & Mary Ann Braun Russ Futchko Pearl Tutko Maria K. & Je9 erson H. Braun Carl & Jane Hodel Mildred L. Mayher Olga & John Buberniak Tom & Helen Kessler Marie & Vladimir Dutko Thomas & Jennifer Kellechowcasper & Family Peter & Helen Stavisky Stephen, Joann & Jordyan Dutko Nadine Demianovich Mary Piznar Helen Dorval Uniondale, Pa. Michael & Leona Stchur Olga Gallick Saints Peter & Paul Church Peter & Paula Holoviak & Vladimir Helen Hrichuk Rev. Fr. David Mezynski J. P. & Denise Meck Ron & Luba Kilmer Joseph Bendyk Paul, Corie & Abby Meck Thomas & Elaine Kravetsky Donald & Ann Bock Michael & Lisa Talpash Laurie, Lynn & Kimberly Kravetsky Joseph & Joan Bock Rachael & Christa Talpash Michael & Theresa Luczkovich Paul Demianovich & Family Marie Talpash John & Mary Okorn Vladimir & Betty Demianovich William Talpash, Jr. Mary Ann & James Opecko Michael Demianovich In memory of William Talpash, Sr. Marie Proch Bill & George Kochan David & Deborah Mills Maria Proch Carol Kelleher, Ryan & Emily Gregory, Laura, Michael & Christopher Polk Walter & Mary Anne Proch Rose M. Kennedy Ted & Eleanor Sovyrda Sem. John & Kimberly Proch Lovey & Ronald Kilmer Olga Shewczyk Mary Ann Lepa

70 Glorify Him!

In memory of Mary Stafursky Protodeacon Gregory & Mrs. Moser Jack & Barbara Malriat Evelyn Kozmiski Nicholas, Marina, Larissa, Katerina Moser Samuel Mervis Mike & Jeri Basarab In Memory: Archpriest Vladimir Borichevsky Reader George Nakonetschny In Memory: Matushka Mary Borichevsky Julia Petrov Williamsport, Pa. Boris & Joanne Borichevsky Kevin & Mary Anne Swan Holy Cross Church Damian & Brian Borichevsky Elizabeth Werner Fr. Dan, Myra & Natalia Kovalak Sergei, Connie, & Zachary Borichevsky John Wanko Matthew & Evelyn Chabal Reader Peter & Sandy & Stephanie Bohlender Doug, Sharon, Anna, John & Lydia Yates Ann Chabal Jeanette Ruano Lucy Znak Dr. & Mrs. Minas Hiras Anatole & Cynthia Bredikin Chris & Dana, Peter & Paul Toma Eileen & Michael Juran James & Monia Pitra Dorothy & Ken Martiak Elsie Skvir Nierle Sergei & Irene Arhipov The Sinatra Family Joyce & Rhiannon Beer The Williams Family Delores L. Marmaluk & Family Isaac Chappe Wrightstown, Pa. Patrick Colucci St. Mark’s Church Steve & Helen Kyriakodis Archpriest Theodore Heckman Sonja Lengel

Origen Continued from page 39 and immediately than the Son can do.” some sort of one essence.” He adds “in from the same fountain head of gross im- 15. The following passage is a con- some sort” to escape the charge of blas- piety? This is not the time to confute all vincing proof that he holds the transmi- phemy; and while in another place he will the statements made in detail; and indeed gration of souls and annihilation of bod- not allow the Son and the Holy Spirit to those who have written against Arius, ies. “If it can be shown that an incorpo- be of one substance with the Father lest Eunomius, Manichaeus, and various oth- real and reasonable being has life in itself by so doing he should appear to make the er heretics must be supposed to have an- independently of the body and that it is worse off in the body than out of it; then beyond a doubt bodies are only of sec- ondary importance and arise from time If it can be shown that an incorporeal and rea- to time to meet the varying conditions of reasonable creatures. Those who require sonable being has life in itself independently bodies are clothed with them, and con- of the body and that it is worse o in the body trariwise, when fallen souls have lifted than out of it; then beyond a doubt bodies are themselves up to better things, their bod- ies are once more annihilated. They are only of secondary importance and arise from thus ever vanishing and ever reappear- time to time to meet the varying conditions of ing.” And to prevent us from minimiz- ing the impiety of his previous utterances reasonable creatures he ends his work by maintaining that all reasonable beings, that is, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, angels, powers, dominations, and virtues, and even man divine essence divisible, he here bestows swered these blasphemies as well. If any- by right of his soul’s dignity, are of one the nature of God almighty upon angels one, therefore, wishes to read the work let and the same essence. “God,” he writes, and men. him walk with his feet shod towards the “and His only-begotten Son and the Holy 16. This being the nature of Origen’s land of promise; let him guard against the Spirit are conscious of an intellectual and book, is it anything short of madness to jaws of the serpent and the crooked jaws reasonable nature. But so also are the an- change a few blasphemous passages re- of the scorpion; let him read this treatise gels, the powers, and the virtues, as well garding the Son and the Holy Spirit and fi rst and before he enters upon the path let as the inward man who is created in the then to publish the rest unchanged with him know the dangers which he will have image and after the likeness of God. From an unprincipled eulogy when the parts to avoid. which I conclude that God and they are in unaltered as well as the parts altered fl ow [End of the Letter to Avitus] To be continued 71 All in the Diocesan Family

Catasauqua Holy Trinity Church On Sunday Sept. 25, Priest Timothy A. Hasenecz and Archpriest Eugene Vansuch blessed new priest’s vestments. The blessing service was conducted in the Carpatho-Rus’ custom. A ribbon was con- nected to each vestment and ran along the pews to the back of the church, as church members held onto the ribbon, while the prayers over the vestments were recited. After the blessing, the ribbon was cut up and given to each parishioner as a keep- sake to be used as a marker for Bibles or prayer books. Many parishioners stated they had not seen this service since child- Fr. Timothy blesses new vestments hood and it invoked many fond memories from the elder parishioners and made new memories for the younger members of the congregation.

Edwardsville St. John the Baptist Church Kathryn Prokopchak, lifetime mem- ber of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Pennsylvania, has received an unprec- edented honor from the organization. Kathryn served as the Mother of the Year for the Eagles Auxiliary in the state in 1981-82 and has been singled out to re- ceive this honor for a second term in the year 2005. Kathryn has been a member of the Auxiliary for more than forty years. She served as state president in 1975 and was inducted into the Eagles’ Hall of Bestowing of diocesan gramota Fame. The Golden Eagle Fund Charity was named after her. The Fraternal Order of Eagles raises money for humanitarian projects, charities and education.

Frackville Holy Ascension Church Father Paul & Matushka Lovie Ropitsky received gramota for their years of service to the Church.

Christ is Born! Glorify Him!

Workers at fall food festival 72 All in the Diocesan Family

Metropolitan Theodosius prays for Fr. John and Mat. Eugenia Fr. John receives the jeweled cross

Kathryn Prokopchak honored by Fraternal Order of Eagles

Perich family with Met. Theodosius and Bp. Tikhon His Grace Bishop Tikhon recently made an archpastoral visit to St. Herman’s parish in Gradyville to hon- or the rector, Archpriest John Perich, and his wife, Matushka Eugenia, as they celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary and Fr. John’s twenty-N fth anniversary of ordination. Joining them at this joyous occasion were the retired primate of our Church, His Beatitude Metropolitan Theodosius, Protopresbyter Rodion Kondratick, O.C.A. Chancellor, Archpriest Daniel Donlick, former St. Tikhon’s Seminary dean, and Matushka Eugenia’s fa- ther, Archpriest Eugene Pianovich, along with many relatives, family and friends. During the hierarchical Divine Liturgy Fr. John was awarded the jeweled cross for his many years of faithful service. Fr. John & Mat. Eugenia cut their anniversary cake Newly renovated domes on Frackville church Gradyville St. Herman of Alaska Church celebrated during the two-day visit of the tor, Archpriest John Perich celebrated a On Saturday Oct. 22, 2005, the Feast miraculous Sitka icon to the parish. The moleben service. The next morning, the of the Kazan Icon of the Theotokos which icon arrived after midnight at the parish Divine Liturgy was celebrated by twelve is the prototype of Our Lady of Sitka, was where the priests, led by the host pas- Continued on the next page 73 All in the Diocesan Family priests. Over 400 people fi lled the church during the magnifi cent liturgy at which the icon was adorned with over 800 fresh fl owers through the dedicated efforts of Mrs. Tanya Guba of Bridegport, Conn. who worked for over ten hours in this en- deavor. Reader Gregory Hubiak, the par- ish choir director, directed the combined choir. Following the liturgy everyone was invited to in the church memorial hall for an Alaskan luncheon of salmon, baked pirog (meat and cabbage pies) and other typically Russian/Native American delicacies prepared by Christal Krugovoy and her committee. Later that day the icon was taken to St. Nicholas Cathedral in Washington, D.C. for the great vespers service. Alaskan priest, Fr. Aleksei, preaches in Gradyville Sitka Icon surrounded by 800 fresh ? owers

Fr. Daniel with Osuch family at installation banquet

Frs. John Perich and Nicholas Yuschak serve liturgy

Harrisburg Christ the Savior Church The Sitka Icon of the Theotokos was in the Harrisburg church on Thursday, Oct. 13. An akathist was chanted before the icon during the evening with twelve priests and a deacon leading the large crowd of faithful in prayer. The IOCC/OCMC charity dinner was held on Sunday, Nov. 27, in Lancaster at Annunciation Church with over 300 peo- ple participating. The 75th anniversary of the Central Fr. Daniel with visiting Russian psychologists with the Keystone Program 74 All in the Diocesan Family

St. Michael’s Church, Jermyn Pa. District FOCA was celebrated on Sunday, Oct. 30. The Sunday hierarchi- cal Divine Liturgy was celebrated by His Grace, Bishop Tikhon, who the day be- fore in Philadelphia had been offi cially installed as ruling hierarch of our diocese. He was assisted by our three priests: Frs. Dan, Michael and Neal along with Deacon Alexander Vallens from St. Tikhon’s. Our church choir sang the responses. Over 110 attended the banquet in the parish hall. The national FOCA president, Dr. John Schultz of Weirton, W.Va. was the Bishop Tikhon tonsures Gregory Bertholf a Reader Reader Gregory is given the epistle to read main speaker.

Old Forge St. Michael’s Church His Grace Bishop Tikhon made an archpastoral visit on our patronal feast. Joining him for the hierarchical Divine Liturgy were parish rector Fr. David Mahaffey, Archpriest Theodore Orzolek, native son currently attached to the par- ish, Deacon Alexander Vallens, and Subdeacons John Brunett and Vasily Johnson. His Grace was greeted by parish president Maria Augustine-Emily and the Bishop Tikhon blesses Serge and Lydia PopoC on entire church school. Following the lit- Bishop presents diocesan gramota to Mary Sernak 50th wedding anniversary urgy a festive meal was held in the lower dining hall of the parish center.

Kontakion Hymn

Today the Virgin gives birth to the transcen- dent one, Over 200 people participated in the annual patronal dinner in Jermyn And the earth oF ers a cave to the unapproach- able one! Angels, with shepherds, glorify Him! The wise men journey with the star, since for our sake the Eternal God was born as Annual cookie exchange a little child. held Dec. 18 at St. Michael’s, Jermyn

75 All in the Diocesan Family

Aaron and Zachary Vrabel at Old Forge’s Pizza and a movie Each year in November the church school sponsors an outing for the parish families to enjoy world-famous Old Forge Bishop Tikhon with concelebrants after the meal Pizza and a movie at the Cinemark 20. This year the party was held at the restau- rant of the parish president, Augustine’s Club 17 in Old Forge.

Olyphant All Saints Church On Wednesday Nov. 30, 2005, All Saints Orthodox Church in Olyphant held the service of the akathist to the Theotokos, Healer of Cancer and other diseases before a copy of the miraculous icon of our Lady Queen of All, with over Bishop Tikhon with some of the youth 150 people in attendance. Fr. Paul Fetsko and Fr. John Kowalczyk concelebrated the service. The parish plans to make this an annual service during the Nativity fast.

A photo before the movie

Fr. Paul anoints the faithful

Shillington In September, St. Herman’s Church spon- the church school sponsored its annual St. Herman of Alaska Church sored a bus trip to see The Producers on stocking breakfast which raised $500 for On Thursday, Aug. l5, 75 parishioners Broadway, and held a parish family picnic the OCA’s Christmas Stocking Project. enjoyed a Reading Phillies baseball game. and rummage sale. On Sunday, Oct. 16, On Sunday, Nov. 15, the parish held its

76 All in the Diocesan Family

annual harvest dinner; over 80 parishio- ners enjoyed the covered-dish dinner. pa- rishioner Michael Losk was honored by the local newspaper, The Reading Eagle, on Veteran’s Day. Michael is a decorat- ed and wounded, 5-invasion veteran of World War II. Marriage: Katherine Yurick and Richard Wentling, July 30, 2005.

Fr. John with the Wentlings

A new CD entitled Christ Is Born! Give Glory! has been released to celebrate the Feast of the Nativity of Christ. The CD is the second release by Archangel Voices, a vocal ensemble established for the purpose of creating high-qual- ity recordings of Orthodox liturgical music. Featuring 35 hymns, chants, and carols from the Nativity season, all sung in English, the CD draws upon both Byzantine and Slavic traditions, focus- St. Herman parishioners enjoy harvest dinner ing on settings by American composers and arrangers, including Mark Bailey, Frederick Karam, Fr. Sergei Glagolev, South Canaan Kevin Lawrence, Vladimir Morosan, St. Tikhon’s Monastery Church Walter Obleschuk, and Jessica Suchy- Pilalis, as well as such “classical” mas- ters as Johann von Gardner, Alexander Kastalsky, and Boris Ledkovsky. Also featured are traditional carols from Ukraine and Lebanon that use newly versi ed English translations. The CD retails for $16.98, and volume discounts for bookstores and church kiosks are available. To order, visit www.archan- gelvoices.com or call 1-800-326.3132.

Fr. Ressetar oC ers prayers at the Mens’ Retreat 77 All in the Diocesan Family South Canaan St. Tikhon’s Monastery Church

Seminary families sing for St. Nicholas

Chaplain Major Gallick speaks to retreatants

A saintly Nicholas and the children

Fr. Dahulich talks on the theology of war Entrance of the Theotokos, Nov. 21, 2005

Bishop Tikhon and retreat participants 78 All in the Diocesan Family Wilkes-Barre Holy Resurrection Cathedral Sitka Icon of the Mother of God

O Holy Theotokos pray for us!

O Mother of God, chosen from all generations to be the Protectress of Christian people; we offer Thee Our Lady of Sitka in the Resurrection Cathedral songs of thanksgiving for Thy wonderworking Icon that has come to Alaska. Thou art a fountain of mercy and dost help all who seek refuge in Thee. Defend us in all affl ictions, necessities and tribulations, that we may cry to Thee: Hail! Thou zealous Defender of the Orthodox Faithful in America.

An angel was sent to say to the Holy Virgin: Hail! For God the Word shall be made fl esh in Thy womb. And we sinners give glory to the wonderworking Icon of the Holy Virgin and the Divine Infant, our Savior Christ, and we cry to Her, The faithful ll the cathedral’s pews full of grace, from the bottom of our hearts: Hail! Divinely chosen Maid of God, Mother of our Savior. Hail! Thou who art honored by the angels, about Whom the Seraphim sing. Hail! Bright fulfi ller of the Prophecies. Hail! Boast of the Apostles. Hail! Thou Whom the Martyrs confessed. Hail! Crown of all Holy Monks. Hail! Joy of the Righteous. Hail! Hope of sinners. Hail! Thou zealous Defender of the Orthodox faithful in America.

--From the Akathist Hymn to Our Lady of Sitka Over 25 clergy celebrated the akathist with Bishop Tikhon 79 Newly illumined and chrismated into the Orthodox Church at St. Nicholas parish in Bethlehem, Sarah Ann Bricker stands next to Mr. Paul Chernay (Chernaskey) who was bap- tized in 1926 at St. Nicholas Church. Mr. Chernay has been a very active member of the Bethlehem parish all his life. In his hand, Paul holds a check for $44,898, from the $1 million chari- table trust that he established for the beneN t of St. Tikhon’s Seminary and Monastery. A longtime member of the Board of Trustees of the theologi- cal school and a lifelong benefactor of both the seminary and monas- tery, Paul has worked closely with His Beatitude, Metropolitan HERMAN, when he was seminary rector, in both STS development and publications.

Mr. George Nakonetschny, a retired businessman from St. Mark’s Church in Wrightstown, Pennsylvania, presents a $5,000 scholarship to Fr. David Balmer, in loving memory of his be- loved wife Alla. Mrs. Nakonetschny was a very active member of St. Mark’s parish, where she served as the treasurer. Fr. David is a married M. Div. student from St. Seraphim Cathedral in Dallas. He is in his third and N nal year of study at seminary.

Mr. Nakonetschny presents a second scholarship for $5,000 to Archimandrite Philemon Castro, in memory of his be- loved father, Archpriest Michael Nakonetschny. Fr. Michael served the Church for many years with great distinction while supporting he family with additional employment. Fr. Philemon is a missionary priest from the Philippines, also in his N nal year of study.

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