October 2014 Issue Of

Eastern Catholic Life Official Publication of the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic

VOL. L, NO. 10 OCTOBER, 2014

2014 Eparchial Stewardship Appeal “Charit y is Humilit y in Blossom” Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich

A Message from Bishop Kurt

hat an exciting year we have had in our Epar- ern Europe. I am expecting three more priests from Uzhgorod chy! Imagine. Someone from our own church in the near future. Please continue to pray for priests. It says was beatified by Rome! Sister Miriam Teresa in the Gospel of St. Matthew, “And seeing the multitudes, he DemjanovichW is praying for all of us and for our church. A had compassion on them: because they were distressed, and like boy in New Jersey was miraculously cured of incurable blind- sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, the har- ness through her intercession. If you know someone struggling vest is great, but the laborers are few. Pray therefore to the Lord with eye problems, perhaps you might recommend her to your of the harvest, that he send laborers into his harvest.” Just as friend or loved one. If you believe important, support the priests you that you have received a miracu- already have. They have generously lous cure, you should contact the given their lives to serve you. Sisters of Charity and learn how A class of deacon candidates is to document it properly. We need finishing their four years of train- one more miracle to have Sister ing, and will soon be serving at Miriam Teresa canonized. the altars of our eparchy. Another We have purchased very beau- class of candidates is forming. One tiful bibles for all of our church- of our seminarians was ordained a es, and there are seven pallets of new priest for our eparchy on Sep- bibles sitting in my garage right tember 24. What a day of rejoicing now, waiting for distribution. We for our whole church! Father Ste- also purchased a machine to print ven put in long years of study and the names of our churches on the pastoral training to prepare for this bibles in gold to match the icon day. Your prayers were answered. on the cover. I think you will be Another seminarian will finish his thrilled when you see them in our studies this Christmas. It costs a churches. And I will be thrilled if minimum of $100,000 to train one you pick them up and read them! priest from beginning to end. Our mother church in Za- We are so blessed by Almighty karpatska celebrated twenty five God to be Americans. We live in years since the re-legalization of the richest country in the history of our church in Ukraine. It’s hard to the world, and your individual gen- believe that only twenty five years erosity has allowed our church to ago it was a crime to worship in take care of itself and others as well. our church in half of Europe. It was like the Dark Ages in the Whether we are feeding seminarians in Europe, or preparing 20th Century. How inspiring to see the Holy Spirit flourishing our own candidates for holy orders, or helping out troubled par- there. Bishop Sasik has ordained 164 priests in the short time ishes with targeted grants and loans, or presenting educational that he has been bishop. Did you know, YOU fed every single events, or purchasing bibles, your generosity is an inspiration to one of those priests in seminary? That’s right. From the day our others. seminary reopened in Uzhgorod, the Eparchy of Passaic has I am so blessed to be the Bishop of Passaic, and I thank each generously paid for their food every year. of you for your warm welcome. Every parish I visit accepts me The surplus of priests in Ukraine is beginning to help us most graciously. Please continue to pray for me, and to support with our own clergy shortage. Right now we have six priests all the priests, deacons, and religious of our church. with families working in our eparchy from eparchies in East-

Diocesan Development Clergy Appointments and Altar Server Retreat Pilgrimage Highlights at Appeal—p2-3 Transfers —p4 Congress 2014 —p6 Mt. St. Macrina—p8-10 Page 2 Eastern Catholic Life OCTOBER 2014

Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic Stewardship Appeal 2014

Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich Our Joy and Our Inspiration

“There is but one God, one Truth, one life, one “Realize that everything you have you owe to ego, one soul; there is but one duty, one aim, God – life, faith, health, talents, virtue, voca- one business, designated by the One God to tion.” occupy that one ego, that one life, that one soul. Blessed Miriam Teresa, on Religious Humility What is it? Listen to the words of the eternal truth: “Be . . . perfect as also your heavenly Fa- ther is perfect” (Matt. 5:48) “Why do we pray? That we may know; and knowing, love; and loving, serve; as to possess Blessed Miriam Teresa, life in its fullness.” on The Time of Prayer “The real beginning of my life, the life of the Blessed Miriam Teresa, spirit, occurred five days after my birth ac- on The Time of Prayer “The fruit of prayer is good cording to the flesh. I was baptized and con- works.” firmed in the Greek rite on the thirty-first of “In serving God we serve St. Teresa (as quoted March, a Sunday, truly a day of resurrection.” our neighbor, who, as a by Sister Miriam Teresa) ~Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich member of the same mys- tical body, is benefited by My Beloved One! To the our good works; converse- Father, Son, And Holy Paraclete, Be all honor, ly, in serving our neighbor praise, to the end of days in measure full, re- through charity, we serve Him Whose image plete. we see resplendent in every soul.” Sister Miriam Teresa Blessed Miriam Teresa, on Disposition for Prayer

Prayer for Canonization Glory to the Father and to the Son and Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory to the to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and for- Father... Most Holy and Blessed Trinity, Whom ever. Amen. Blessed Miriam Teresa loved so ardently, All the faithful who receive miracles and grant that we, like her, may become ever Prayer for Favors favors through the intercession of Blessed more conscious of Your Divine Presence Miriam Teresa, SC, should report them to Most Holy and Adorable Trinity, Fa- within our souls. We implore You to con- the Director of the League of Prayer: Sis- ther, Son, and Holy Spirit, for Your own tinue to show signs that Your humble ser- ter Mary Canavan, SC c/o Blessed Miriam glory and the sanctification of souls, glo- vant enjoys glory with You in Heaven, and Teresa League Headquarters PO Box 476, rify Your servant Blessed Miriam Teresa, by to hasten the day when we may render her Convent Station, New Jersey 07961-0476 granting to us the graces which we humbly a lasting tribute of our veneration and love. or visit, www.SCNJ.org. ask through her intercession. OCTOBER 2014 Eastern Catholic Life Page 3

Your Stewardship Gifts Support Our Eparchial Programs OUR GOAL: $495,000

TARGETED PARISH REVITALIZATION Capital improvements and renovations in specific parishes $150,000 BIBLES FOR PARISHES Providing beautiful new bibles to every parish for the people in the pews $100,000 ASSISTANCE TO EASTERN EUROPEAN PARISHES Starting with Bishop Dudick, our Eparchy has fed the seminarians of the Uzhorod Seminary since it was reopened after communism. Bishop Sasik has ordained 154 priests in 11 years, some of whom serve in the Eparchy of Passaic. $50,000 DEACON FORMATION A class of deacons is finishing this year, ready and eager to serve the faithful of Passaic. A new class is organizing now for the next four year program. $20,000 EDUCATION OF SEMINARIANS AND PRIESTS Seminary studies and formation; pastoral training programs; vocations BBQ’s and graduate studies. Tuition and room and board Stewardship for one seminarian is $22,000 for one year at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Pittsburgh. $25,000 Appeal EASTERN CHRISTIAN FORMATION Publications, Youth Ministry, Family Enrichment, Catechist and Coordinator Formation $25,000 2014 PAROCHIAL SUPPORT Grants to individual parishes for support, renovation, and maintenance “Charity is humility in blossom” $125,000 “Without humility, there can be no charity. This is self evident” ~Blessed Miriam Teresa

STEWARDSHIP APPEAL 2014

Pledge cards will be mailed to you in October. Or, you may use the one above, and return to your parish or to 445 Lackawanna Ave., Woodland Park, NJ 07424. Page 4 Eastern Catholic Life OCTOBER 2014

From the Office of the Bishop

Clergy Appointments and Assignments

Reverend Michael Krulak, has resigned his position Reverend Carmen Scuderi, OFM, Guardian of Holy as Pastor of Saint Ann Byzantine Catholic Church in New Dormition Franciscan Friary in Sybertsville, PA, is relieved Port Richey, FL effective July 10, 2014. He remains a priest of his duties as Pastor of Saint John the Baptist Byzantine in good standing in the Eparchy of Passaic. Catholic Church, Hazleton, PA, effective September 1, 2014.

Reverend Timothy Clegg, is appointed Temporary Reverend Jerome Wolbert, OFM, is appointed Pas- Administrator of Saint Ann Byzantine Catholic Parish in tor of Saint John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church, New Port Richey, FL, effective July 10, 2014. Hazleton, PA, effective September 1, 2014.

Eparchial Presbyteral Council SOUTHERN STATES SYNCELLATE The following priests have been elected to serve on the Presby- Reverend Vincent Brady teral Council of the Eparchy of Passaic. Election results have Very Reverend Sal Pignato been ratified by the Most Reverend Bishop. SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY SYNCELLATE CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA SYNCELLATE Reverend Mykhaylo Prodanets Very Reverend Edward Higgins Very Reverend Michael Salnicky Reverend Michael Popson MIDDLE STATES SYNCELLATE Other priests on the Eparchial Presbyteral Council, Reverend Michael Kerestes by virtue of their office (ex officio) are: Very Reverend Conan Timoney Right Reverend Archpriest James G. Hayer, Protosyncellus NEW JERSEY SYNCELLATE Very Reverend John Basarab, Reverend Edward Cimbala Syncellus of the Middle States Syncellate Reverend Charles Yastishock Very Reverend Robert Evancho, NEW YORK - NEW ENGLAND SYNCELLATE Syncellus of the Southern States Syncellate Reverend Jack Custer Very Reverend Robert Hospodar, Chancellor and Reverend Ronald Hatton Syncellus of the New York-New England Syncellate Very Reverend Peter Hosak, EASTERN CATHOLIC LIFE Syncellus of the Central Pennsylvania Syncellate Very Reverend Gary Mensinger, (USPS 165-600) Syncellus of the Susquehanna Valley Syncellate (ISSN 0894-9786) Official Publication of the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic Very Reverend Michael Mondik, Subscription Rate: $15.00 per year. Syncellus of the New Jersey Syncellate News and Photo Services: Catholic News Service, CNS Picture Service and Member of the Catholic Press Association of America. Very Reverend Monsignor John T. Sekellick, Published monthly by the Eastern Catholic Press Association, Judicial Vicar 445 Lackawanna Avenue, Woodland Park NJ 07424. Phone: 973-890-7777. Fax: 973-890-7175. Postage Paid at Little Falls, NJ and additional office at Bellmawr, NJ. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: What is a Presbyteral Council? Eastern Catholic Life According to Canon Law, “A presbyteral council 445 Lackawanna Avenue, Woodland Park, NJ 07424. must be established in the eparchy, that is a body Most Reverend Bishop Kurt Burnette, President and Publisher of priests representing the presbyterate, and Right Reverend Archpriest James G. Hayer, Editor Mrs. Diane Rabiej, Associate Editor which, according to the norm of the law, assists Mrs. Maureen French, Circulation Editor ([email protected]) the eparchial bishop by its advice in those things which regard the needs of the pastoral work and E-Mail us at: [email protected] good of the eparchy.” (Canon 264) Eparchial Website: www.EparchyofPassaic.com OCTOBER 2014 Eastern Catholic Life Page 5

Altar Server Congress 2014 Knights of the Holy Table Gather at the Carpathian Village By Subdeacon Lewis Rabayda

CANADENSIS, PA – Altar servers from learned many other interesting lessons related to Prior to the Divine Liturgy with Bishop Kurt, across the Eparchy of Passaic came together at the the liturgical and spiritual life of the Byzantine the servers were reminded, or taught for the first Carpathian Village from July 27-30 for a four- Catholic Church. For example, the older serv- time, about how to serve a Hierarchical Liturgy by day experience of spirituality and recreation that ers enjoyed a special presentation on the differ- Father Edward Higgins. He also instructed them had a positive influence on their lives that they ent aspects of Christ in the Divine Liturgy given on the different roles that a server must be ready can bring back to their parishes. Twenty-five altar by Subdeacon Lewis Rabayda. Deacon Stephen for during the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. servers were in attendance for this year’s congress. Russo presented the same information to the The celebration of the Divine Liturgy with the This year’s camp organizer, Deacon Stephen Rus- younger servers. There was also a talk by Deacon- servers and Bishop Kurt turned out beautifully, so of Danbury, CT, enthusiastically greeted the Candidate Thomas Shubeck entitled, “It’s Awe- and the servers sang with enthusiasm while on servers. The other clergy in attendance were Fa- some” where he spoke about the awe that is pres- the altar! ther Gary Mensinger, Father Myklaylo Prodanets ent in the Divine Liturgy. The servers also made On Wednesday, the final day of the congress, and his wife, Ivanna; Father Martin Vavrak and their own icon, which they were able to take home. the servers help clean up their dorms and began wife; Deacon Robert Behrens; and our seminar- In addition to the fun activities throughout packing for their return to their home parishes. ian-Subdeacon Lewis Rabayda; as well as Father the week, such as capture the flag, water balloon This year’s altar servers congress was truly a mem- Michael Salnicky, who served as head chef, and toss, kickball, the servers also enjoyed a field trip orable event in which they shared their faith with kept everyone energized with good home-cook- to H2OOOHH! Water Park. Servers were also each-other and were strengthened in their Byz- ing. able to participate in the Holy Mystery of Recon- antine heritage. May God Bless everyone for their In addition to receiving instruction on the ciliation (Confession) and to assist in the celebra- help in making this Altar Server Congress a real- duties of Altar Server during a Hierarchical Di- tion of the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy with their ity and a wonderful event with fun had by all. See vine Liturgy, the young Knights of the Altar also Chief Shepherd, Bishop Kurt. you next year! Page 6 Eastern Catholic Life OCTOBER 2014

People You Know Around the Eparchy

Patronage of the Mother of God Church · Baltimore, MD Parishioners Enjoy “Lunch with the Pastor” Discussion Series

he Patronage of the Mother tired Air Force Nurse who dealt with of God Byzantine Parish in Iraq service persons did a presenta- Baltimore,T Maryland recently con- tion on their ministry. Mary Demyan cluded its 2013-2014 series entitled who has a degree in gerontology did “Lunch with the Pastor.” the day in- a presentation of medical and legal is- cludes an informative presentation sues affecting senor citizens. followed by a catered lunch. Also, Sister Reginald of the This month, Msgr. George Dobes Oblate Sisters of Providence gave a gave a presentation on “Annulments presentation of Mother Katherine in the Catholic Church.” Msgr. Do- Drexel with emphasis on the Black bes assists at Epiphany of Our Lord communities in Louisiana. Sister Byzantine Parish in Annandale, Vir- Christina of the All Saints Sisters of ginia and is a member of the Tribunal the Poor gave a presentation on the of the Archdiocese of Washington. journey of faith of her community of eleven Episcopal Sisters who em- Previous presenters were: Eliza- braced the Catholic Church. beth Krueger a retired Army nurse Pictured is Father Conan Timoney Pastor of Patronage Parish with who served in Viet Nam and also in Father Conan Timoney is Pastor Msgr. George Dobes and individuals who attended the last monthly Iran at the time of the overthrow of of Patronage Parish. luncheon catered by “The Lunch Box Lady”. the Shaw. She and Lisa Guba, a re-

Saint Mary Church · Wilkes-Barre, PA Annual Pet Blessing Wags Many Tails

he annual Blessing of Animals was recently held at Saint Mary Byzantine CatholicT Church in Wilkes-Barre, PA in honor of Saint Mammas, the third century Martyr who had a special affinity for animals and is depicted in iconography as riding a lion. sprinkling of Holy Water. The owners, too, were The blessing, which the church has been do- blessed for their continued care of their pets. In ing for about 10 years, is a service to pray for all addition to the blessing, all pets were given a animals. Though, this year, only dogs were pres- tasty treat (or two). Owners were given a souvenir ent for the blessing, all pets are welcome and have keepsake and a prayer card for any sick pet. been present in past years. Saint Mary Parish is served by Archpriest Over the years, homing pigeons, horses, cats, James Hayer with the assistance of Deacon Ed- turtles, mice and security dogs were blessed. After ward Fey, Deacon Basil Soroka and the Ministry a prayer service (moleben) to Saint Mammas, the of the Sisters of Saint Basil the Great. animals were blessed individually with a gentle

Senior Seminar at Smithtown Parish Saturday, October 18, 10AM-12PM

ohn Spiciati will present a wealth of information about resources and services offered to seniors on the Jfederal, state, county and town levels. He will offer advice on how to navigate these systems to address areas of concern for senior citizens. This is useful information for seniors and those who care for them. This presentation is being offered as a public service by our parish as part of our ongoing speakers’ series. All are welcome, and there is no charge to attend. Resurrection Hall is located beneath the Church, Corner of Edgewater and Mayflower Avenues in Smithtown, NY, and is accessible by chair lift for those with walking difficulties. The Hall is not wheelchair accessible. Resurrection Church is served by Father Jack Custer. OCTOBER 2014 Eastern Catholic Life Page 7

Pilgrims Drink from the Fountain of Mercy at the 80th Annual Pilgrimage at Mount Saint Macrina By Susan McCarthy

cattered showers throughout the week- for the 80th Pilgrimage was “Theotokos: Foun- evening, the rain held off long enough for the end did not dampen the spirits of the pil- tain of Mercy” and many came to drink from this beautiful candlelight procession. On Monday grimsS who journeyed from throughout the United fountain. The beautiful homilies and some of the morning, Divine Liturgy was held for those pil- States, Canada and Eastern Europe to come to prayer services emphasized this theme. grims who were still at Mount St. Macrina or in Mount Saint Macrina in Uniontown, PA over Uniontown. As in previous years, the Sisters welcomed Labor Day weekend. all those Pilgrims who came from distant places The Bishops of all four Eparchies attended This year’s Pilgrimage celebrated two special whether by cars, vans, buses, or airplanes. Some and conducted services throughout the weekend: anniversaries: the 80th year for the Pilgrimage arrived early to help with the preparations of Metropolitan William (Skurla) of Pittsburgh, and 75 years since the death of Pope Pius XI, who the grounds. Many stayed on the grounds and Bishop John (Kudrick) of Parma, Bishop Gerald donated the Icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help camped at the racetrack or stayed in the Trinity (Dino) of Phoenix, and Bishop Kurt (Burnette) of to the Sisters. Center throughout the weekend. Passaic. They were joined by Bishop John (Pazak) of Toronto, Canada. In her welcome letter to the Pilgrims, Sister For those who arrived early, they started their Seraphim Olsafsky, OSBM, Provincial, explained Pilgrimage on a beautiful Friday evening with Li- Pilgrims attending this year may have noticed the gift of the icon and origin of Pilgrimage, turgical prayers at the Shrine Altar. several upgrades around the property that in- “Pope Pius XI was the first Pope to directly ad- cluded handicapped restrooms and renovations to On Saturday morning, which was the official dress the Christian ecumenical movement. Like the pilgrim house, as well as an additional prayer start of Pilgrimage, the crowd grew for Divine Benedict XV he was interested in achieving re- garden. Liturgy in the morning. At the end of the ser- union with the Eastern Orthodox- failing that, vice, Sister Seraphim welcomed the pilgrims to The Pilgrimage provides for the diverse spiri- he was determined to give special attention to the the Mount. tual needs of many pilgrims who frequent this Eastern Catholic Churches. In 1935, on the occa- major unifying event in the life of the Byzantine sion of the visit of Bishop Basil Takach to Rome, The rest of the weekend included services and Catholic Church. Its participants include clergy Pope Pius XI entrusted the Bishop with a gift for activities for pilgrims of all ages, including chil- and faithful from across the country. It holds the Sisters of Saint Basil in Uniontown, a beauti- dren, teens and young adults. There were many the distinction of being the oldest and the larg- ful icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. In pre- opportunities for participation in the Divine Lit- est Byzantine Catholic Pilgrimage in the United senting this icon, the Pope requested that the Sis- urgy. Also scheduled were Matins, Vespers, sacra- States. ters spread devotion to the Theotokos under this ment of reconciliation, healing and anointing ser- title. Wishing to comply with the Holy Father’s vices, and other services in honor of the Mother All denominations are welcome to attend request, Mother Macrina and the Sisters initi- of God. In between scheduled events, pilgrims the annual Pilgrimage. Next year, the Pilgrimage ated the Pilgrimage so that thousands of faithful found solace in walking the beautiful grounds of will be held at Mount St. Macrina on September would come to Mount Saint Macrina to honor Mount Saint Macrina, visiting the many shrines, 5th and 6th. To view Pilgrimage photo albums, the Mother of God through this holy icon.” and enjoying the companionship of family and please visit www.sistersofstbasil.org. friends who share a common purpose. This year was no exception. Thousands of The Pilgrimage closed on Sunday with a Hi- faithful pilgrims attended this spiritual gather- See photo highlight on next page. ing of the Byzantine Catholic Church. The theme erarchical Divine Liturgy at 4 p.m. Later in the

A Word of Gratitude from Sister Seraphim

Dear Friends, significant journeys you make will be Through the grace of God, together we have completed the those which take you deeper into the historical 80th Pilgrimage honoring our Lady of Perpetual Help heart of God. at Mount St Macrina. Your participation, your prayers and your With heartfelt appreciation, and generous assistance have once again enabled the Pilgrimage to be with the assurance that you are being successful and spiritually fulfilling. held in the depth of our prayers, we You are the women and men and young adults called today ask that Our Lady of Perpetual Help to help shape the future of our Byzantine Catholic Church as protect you and give you a profound we journey forward. Just as Pope Pius XI, Bishop Basil Takach, understanding of how uniquely loved and our foundress, Mother Macrina responded to a unique calling you are by her beloved Son. within their lifetime, so too, will all the good actions and decisions of your life ripple over the course of our Church’s history and echo With Sincere thanks in the Lord, throughout eternity. You have the power to make a difference. You make a profound difference to us, the Pilgrims, and to the Pilgrimage honoring the Theotokos. For eighty years, the Sisters of St. Basil have endeavored to keep Mount St. Macrina as a peaceful harbor of prayer and reflection. The 80th Pilgrimage has ended, however, the blessed Sister Seraphim Olsafsky, OSBM Pilgrimage of our life continues. Our prayer is that the most Provincial Page 8 Eastern Catholic Life OCTOBER 2014

Photo Highlights of the 80th Annual Pilgrimage at Mount Saint Macrina Photo credits: Sister Monica Husovich, OSBM, Susan McCarthy, Subdeacon Lewis Rabayda, and Archpriest James Hayer

The Pilgrims listen attentively to the words spoken at the 80th Annual Pilgrimage.

“The serenity is amazing” “The beautiful grounds keep us coming back each year” “The tram service is wonderful” “We come to find peace and recharge our batteries”

The Bishops in attendance: (l. to r.): Bishop John (Pazak) of Toronto; Bishop John (Kudrick) of Parma; Metropolitan William (Skurla) of Pittsburgh; Bishop Gerald (Dino) of Phoenix; and Bishop Kurt (Burnette) of Passaic.

The Sisters process for the opening of the Pilgrimage. OCTOBER 2014 Eastern Catholic Life Page 9

Photo Highlights of the 80th Annual Pilgrimage at Mount Saint Macrina Photo credits: Sister Monica Husovich, OSBM, Susan McCarthy, Subdeacon Lewis Rabayda, and Archpriest James Hayer

“If we want to follow Christ, we must walk to calvary with Him ... “Theotokos, Faith gives wounds a purpose ... We can always jump into the arms of Fountain Mary, the Mother of God, and she will hold us...” of Mercy” ~Bishop Kurt Burnette

Bishop Kurt Burnette reflects on the life of Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich.

“Sometimes we are asked to go down a path we don’t want to go, but God want us to go. That is when we need to pray Mary’s prayer, “I am Your servant, be it done to me according to Your will.”

The Sisters process for the opening of the Pilgrimage. Page 10 Eastern Catholic Life OCTOBER 2014

October is Respect Life Month Statement from Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap. Chairman, USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities

ope Francis has captivated the world with societies of people who are marginalized, uproot- alleviate the fear, confusion and panic that women his humility, warmth and compassion for ed and oppressed. facing unexpected pregnancies may be experienc- eachP person. Vivid accounts of his tenderness for ing? Do our hearts ache for elderly patients in What can be done to prevent this? We must “the least of these”—the elderly, the imprisoned, nursing homes who feel abandoned and unwant- draw close to Jesus in prayer and in the sacra- those with disfiguring disabilities, the unborn, and ed, having no one to visit them? ments. We must ask the Lord for the grace to see many more—seize our attention. Why? ourselves and others as he sees us—as masterpiec- Our mission is to show each person the love At the heart of each of these interactions is a es of his creation. When God created each of us, of Christ. As uniquely created individuals, we truth which resonates in our hearts, revealing to each have unique gifts which we are called to use us something essential to understanding ourselves to share Christ’s love. We are continually given and our purpose. opportunities to do so in our interactions with the cashier at the grocery store, our spouses, children, We are loved. friends and even the people we encounter in traf- In his 2013 Day for Life Greeting, Pope Fran- fic. Each of these moments is valuable beyond cis conveyed that “even the weakest and most vul- our realization. We may never know how much nerable, the sick, the old, the unborn and the poor, a simple gesture of compassion may affect some- are masterpieces of God’s creation, made in his one’s life. own image, destined to live forever, and deserving As the 2014 Respect Life Program begins, let of the utmost reverence and respect.” We see Pope us take a moment to reflect on the theme, “Each Francis living out the truth of these words in his of Us is a Masterpiece of God’s Creation,” and actions. how this truth affects both our understanding of We want to be part of a society that makes af- ourselves and others and the way we live. Pastoral firmation and protection of human rights its pri- and educational resources of the program can be mary objective and its boast. Yet to women faced found at www.usccb.org/respectlife. with an unexpected pregnancy, abortion is often Although we set aside October to particularly presented as their only “choice.” A large percent- pray for respect for all human life, let us never age of children pre-diagnosed as having Down cease this urgent work. I’m grateful to the many syndrome are never given the chance to live out- he did so with precision and purpose, and he looks parishes and schools nationwide which partici- side their mothers’ wombs. Elderly members of on each of us with love that cannot be outdone pate in the program during October, Respect Life our families fear they will become burdensome in intensity or tenderness. We must look at our- Month, and throughout the year. and seek physician assisted suicide. We see these selves and at others in light of this truth and treat and many more of our brothers and sisters pushed all people with the reverence and respect which Love and justice must motivate each of us to to the periphery. is due. work for a transformation of our own hearts so that we can transform the world around us. This is These tragedies go directly against respect for The Church’s antidote to an individualism the message of Pope Francis. May the Risen Lord life, and they represent a direct threat to the entire which threatens the respect for human dignity is put the Gospel of joy in our hearts so that we may culture of human rights. Rather than societies of community and solidarity. Are we moved by the bear witness to the greatest love story ever told. “people living together,” our cities risk becoming suffering of those without shelter? Do we seek to OCTOBER 2014 Eastern Catholic Life Page 11

Healing within Marriage from Abortion October is Respect Life Month

hen Susan’s* husband, For cases in which one spouse is open themselves completely to in- Juan, told her about the unaware of the other’s past abortion timacy for fear of being rejected if abortionW he was involved in when experience, some feel it is crucial for their spouse ever discovered their he was in college, she finally under- him or her to be told, while others secret. Others may not be willing stood why he was so depressed and believe it is in the past and it’s not to practice their faith because of the had trouble bonding with their chil- necessary to address it. But if “the guilt and shame they feel, which de- dren. However, she wanted him to two shall become one” (Mt 19:5), can prives them of spiritual consolation just get over it, without seeking help the marital union be brought to its and drives a wedge between them adoption can be a beautiful way to from a postabortion healing ministry. fullest potential with the secret of an and their spouse. unite the couple as the family God It bothered her to think of him deal- abortion lingering in the past? It is scary for a person to tell his intends them to be, as Steve recog- ing with this in relation to another Steve doesn’t think so: “...looking fiancée or her fiancé or spouse about nized: woman and child. back over our 29 years of marriage, it a past abortion. It requires great trust I made the decision that this was During Steve’s premarital prepa- is probably the one thing from [ei- in that person’s love for them and part of what was brought to our mar- ration with his (now) wife, the topic ther] of our pasts that has affected trust in God. Unfortunately, some- riage ‘in good times and in bad, in sick- of her past abortion never arose. our marriage more than any other.” times that knowledge can threaten ness and in health...to love and honor... Now married and participating in a the relationship, but it can also be a It is no secret that the devasta- all the days of my life.’ I take that vow post-abortion healing ministry, Steve means for the couple to grow closer tion of abortion brings with it many seriously. We had to make this journey notes, “It is one of the questions you together. challenges. Many times the people together. ... I now look upon it that never think to ask during premarital who have participated in an abortion Through the help of a post-abor- I have two sons, the one [whom] she preparation.” are not even aware of the countless tion healing ministry, couples can conceived before we met, and the one With an estimate of over 56 mil- ways it is affecting their lives. Often, successfully work through abortion- we conceived together. Would it be any lion abortions in our country since it is not until they recognize some related challenges, and God’s grace different if the child had lived and ... the infamous Roe vs. Wade deci- of the effect it is having and become can bring true healing in their rela- [were] here present in our lives? No!! sion of 1973, there’s little doubt that involved in a healing ministry that tionships. Matt shared his own story The only real difference is that we have countless marriages are suffering they begin to more clearly identify of this experience: a child who is with God and who is from one or both spouses’ involve- their personal abortion connectors working and praying for us. I had a hard time learning about ment in an abortion. (people, places or things that trigger the abortion and was not sure if I in fact Abortion affects countless mar- memories of their abortion experi- Although many of the same was still going to be able to marry my fi- riages more than many people rec- ence). struggles may arise when only one ancée. Attending the retreat helped me to ognize. But there is no doubt that spouse was involved in a previous It is not uncommon for those recognize that she was the same person I God will bring great healing to those abortion, couples who aborted their suffering from past abortions to had loved the day before I learned, and who trust in his infinite mercy. If a own child before marriage may expe- overreact to present situations be- that if God had forgiven her, I needed to past abortion can be acknowledged rience their own unique difficulties, cause of the trauma they experienced. forgive her as well. Through counseling and addressed, a married couple can as Tina shares: ...I didn’t think it both- For example, what would otherwise and direction we have been able to work make great strides in experiencing ered me until after we were married for be a normal disagreement between through the many feelings and fears I even more fully God’s design that a year and our son was born. I was so spouses can seem like a very real act had, and I feel confident we are now “the two shall become one” (Mt resentful that my husband hadn’t pro- of abandonment to someone who able to work on any issues that come up 19:5). tected me and our baby when I became was coerced into having an abortion. together, and move past them through *The stories of Susan, Juan, Steve, pregnant before we were married. …I An abortion may also lead to infer- the grace of God. I feel I am now able to Tina and Matt (their names are began to resent and hate him. It was tility or difficulty conceiving later in love her the way God intended. changed for their privacy) are just a like a great divide between us. I couldn’t life, which bring their own emotional Significant growth can also re- few examples of the many marriages and wouldn’t let go of the anger and re- strains for a couple. sult from working through the pain touched by abortion. To find out what sentment, because if I did, it would be Fear of intimacy is another together as a couple. For example, the pastoral resources for marriage may be like saying the abortion was ok, and it struggle that may arise. Some women spouse that was not involved in their available in your local area, contact wasn’t. (Our baby died,) I was hurt, and men have kept past abortion ex- husband’s or wife’s past abortion may your diocesan family life office. To find and he could just go on like nothing hap- periences a secret and live in the fear choose to “spiritually adopt” their resources for post-abortion healing, visit pened. of being exposed. They never really spouse’s aborted child. This spiritual HopeAfterAbortion.org.

gain we pray for the Lawgivers in our country, that they may have Respect Life Sunday the courage and wisdom to establish and promote laws which pro- yzantine atholic ro ife tectA the dignity of Human Life from conception until natural death, B C P -L and we ask, O Lord, that You hear us and have mercy. Prayers od our Father, Giver of Life, we entrust the United States of America to Your loving care. You are the rock on which this na- tionG was founded. You alone are the true source of our cherished rights The following prayers may be used at the Divine Liturgy to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. Reclaim this land for or for private reflection. Your glory and dwell again among Your people. Send Your Spirit to gain we pray for our Holy Father Francis, that his proclamation of touch the hearts of our Nation’s leaders. Open their minds to the great the Gospel of Life may lead all to a love for all of God’s creation worth of Human Life and the responsibilities that accompany Human andA for our Bishops, that united with all the successors of the Apostles, Freedom. Remind Your people that true happiness is rooted in seeking they may lead us all in the ways of Truth and Justice. Let us all say, and doing Your will. Through the intercession of Mary Immaculate, Lord hear us and have mercy. Patroness of our Land, grant us the courage to reject the “culture of et us pray that all of God’s people may come to more dearly cher- death” which now prevails. Lead us into a new millennium of life. For ish the Gift of Life and that all who are weighed down by hard- every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from Lship may find strength in God’s holy grace and let us pray for all who You, the Father of lights of heaven, and we render glory, thanksgiving have died by violence, especially for children who have not been al- and worship to You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, now and ever and lowed to live, let us say, hear us, Lord, and have mercy. forever. Amen. Page 12 Eastern Catholic Life OCTOBER 2014

Eparchial Marriage Jubilee Celebration Susquehanna Valley Syncellate

Following the Divine Liturgy, Bishop Kurt expressed his gratitude to the jubilarians for their example of commitment and love. He then blessed the marriage scrolls. Each couple had the opportunity to have an individual photo taken with the Bishop as he presented them with their marriage scroll of blessing. All couples were then invited to be guests of honor at a gala testimo- nial banquet at Saint Mary’s Center. Following the Blessing of Food by Bishop Kurt, Father Gary Mensing- Bishop Kurt with the clergy and servers following the Anniversary Liturgy. er, Syncellus, welcomed the guests and acknowledged the jubilarians by SCRANTON, PA – Byzantine cellus; Msgr. John Sekellick, Pro- ishes. The liturgical responses were years of marriage. A hearty round of Catholic couples from throughout topresbyter; Father Robert Lozin- sung by Cantor Andrew Drozdik applause was given to all the couples, the Susquehanna Valley Syncel- ski, CSC; Father Leonard Martin, and the Saint Mary Choir, together especially those married the longest late recently gathered with Bishop SJ, Host Pastor; Father Michael Kurt, and their parish clergy, at Saint Salnicky, Protopresbyter; Father Mary Byzantine Catholic Church Mykhaylo Prodanets, Father Pe- in Scranton, PA for a celebration of ter Tomas, Father Eduard Shestak; their wedding anniversary. All cou- Father Michael Kuchera, SJ; Fa- ples celebrating a marriage milestone ther John Cigan, and Deacon Larry (5 years, 10 years, 15 years, etc.) were Worlinsky. Father Edward Higgins invited to attend. served as Liturgical Master of Cer- emonies. and Deacon Basil Soroka, The day began with the cel- Deacon Edward Frey, and Deacon ebration of the Divine Liturgy of Robert Behrens. Assisting at the Thanksgiving for the intentions of Liturgy were Subdeacon Gregory the jubilarians. Concelebrating with Lozinskyy from Rome as well as with local cantors from the parishes Bishop Kurt were Archpriest James – Mr. and Mrs. Peter Borick and Mr. altar servers from neighboring par- of the jubilarians. Hayer, Father Gary Mensinger, Syn- and Mrs. Thomas Susco, each from Saint John Church in Forest City. Father Michael Salnicky then closed with a prayer and asked God’s blessings upon all the jubilarians, as well as everyone present, for a safe journey home and many happy years!

Bishop Kurt blesses with candles Deacon Lawrence Worlinsky The Bishop blesses at the beginning of Liturgy. chants the Word of God. the Wedding Scrolls.

Father Gary Mensinger welcomes the guests.

Couples married 65 years, MM Peter Borick and The guests and jubilarians enjoy a delicious meal and Father Michael Salnicky MM Thomas Susco, cut the wedding cake. listen to inspiring words on their years of marriage. offers a closing prayer. OCTOBER 2014 Eastern Catholic Life Page 13

Seasonal ReflectionsMsgr. John. T. Sekellick, JCL

Marian Devotion

but one Mediator, as we know from Mary cares for us on our journey The recently canonized Saint the words of the Apostle: ‘For there through life surrounded by dangers John Paul II in his sixth encyclical is one God, and one Mediator be- and difficulties. While on earth, she letter Redemptoris Mater (Mother tween God and man, Himself man, and Saint Joseph experienced with of the Redeemer) issued on March Christ Jesus Who gave Himself a her Son their flight into Egypt es- 25, 1987 points out that a central ransom for all’ (I Timothy 2:5-6). caping the very jealous wrath of the consideration of Mary is precisely s October opens with the The maternal duty of Mary to us in wicked king, Herod. She was united her being Theotokos (the Mother of solemn Feast of the Pro- no way obscures or diminishes this with Him in suffering as He died on God) since by the power of the Holy tectionA of the Theotokos on the unique mediation of Christ, but the Cross. Her sorrow was turned Spirit she conceived in her virginal first, our Church brings into focus rather shows its power. For all the into inexpressible joy with His glori- womb and brought into the world its unique reverence for Mary, ever- saving influences of the Blessed Vir- ous and radiant resurrection and was Jesus Christ, the Son of God, Who Virgin and Mother. The life of the gin on us originate, not from some taken body and soul into heaven at is of one Being with the Father and Theotokos whose holy birth was inner necessity, but from the di- her holy Dormition. the Holy Spirit. It is said that Saint observed last month, mirrors that vine pleasure. They flow forth from John Paul II attributed his being From the writings of some of our of her Son and our Lord, Jesus. She the superabundance of the merits spared certain death by the dramatic great Eastern Saints, we have their is addressed in prayers under many of Christ, rest on His mediation, assassination attempt on May 13, descriptions on the Virgin Mary’s descriptive titles. Numerous icons depend entirely on it, and draw all 1981 in Saint Peter’s Square surely role in God’s plan of salvation. Saint portray her spiritual presence. Some their power from it. In no way do to the miraculous intervention of Epiphanios of Cyprus (c.315-403) have been known to shed tears or they impede the immediate union of the Mother of God. writes that Mary is “the holy Jeru- exude beautifully and powerfully the faithful with Christ; rather, they salem, Virgin of Christ, His Bride.” As we celebrate Mary’s feast of scented oil. Hardly ever is she seen foster this union.” (no. 60) in iconography alone. Mary almost Saint Andrew of Crete (c.660-740) the Protection, may we make our always is depicted with her divine Mary then, as Mother of God, chants she is “the living city of the own this prayer from the Office of Son in her arms. She is invoked in intercedes for us before His throne King and God, in which Christ Consolation (Paraklisis): “O Joy of our Divine Liturgies some thirteen in heaven. She is famously described dwelt and worked out our salvation.” all the afflicted, Patroness of the times. There are many sites of pil- as “more honorable than the Cheru- Saint Cyril of Alexandria (+444), in persecuted, Sustainer of the hungry, grimages honoring her. Inspiring bim and beyond compare more glo- his famous litany of praise spoken Consolation of those in exile, Haven hymns petition her intercession and rious than the Seraphim.” More than after the Council of Ephesus, where to the storm-tossed, Comfort to the resound to her edification. an example of piety and more than a he was a very dominant figure, ends sick, Protectress and Patroness of the saint, Mary is called “All-holy” (Pan- with these words: “Let us give glory weak, Staff of the aged, O Mother of The Church is careful not to as- aghia), “Ever-Virgin” and resound- to Mary, Ever-Virgin, that is to the God, you are most pure. Hasten to cribe divinity to her. The Dogmatic ingly Theotokos (Mother of God), as Holy Church, and her Son and im- us, we pray, that your servants may Constitution on the Church (Lumen defined by the Ecumenical Council maculate Spouse; to Him be glory be saved.” Gentium) from the Second Vatican of Ephesus in 431. She is the exem- forever and ever.” Council makes this clear: “We have plar of virtue to people of all ages. Special Feature: Seminary Life in Uzhorod he Uzhorod Greek-Catholic Theologi- The corner stone was blessed for the new to the spiritual cal Academy of the Blessed Theodore building on June 28, 1992. The academic year practices, the RomzhaT is the institution of formation and educa- 1992-1993 started and the seminarians lived in seminarian has tion of the Greek-Catholic Eparchy of Mukache- the small coaches which were situated on the the chance to be vo. Its purpose is the formation of the candidates territory of the Seminary. Neither summer heat, united with God for the priesthood by living in the spiritual grow- nor winter cold impeded the seminarians in their and to get the ing and obtaining the philosophical-theological preparation to the priesthood. necessary prepa- education. The Seminary of three Hierarchs, An- ration for spiri- The cardinal Jozef Tomko blessed the com- drij Bachynsky’s Catechetical Institute, the cantor tual growth. plete building of the new Seminary and the foot- school and the icon school led by the Friars Minor ing for the new Seminary chapel on June 28, The main Capuchin also operate in the Academy. 2004 on the feast of the Transportation of the purpose of the The beginning of this important institu- Relics of the Blessed Theodore Romzha. Bishop Seminary is tion is dated at the time of the Bishop Mykhajlo Milan Šašik and the Cardinal Theodore McCar- to form a good Bishop Sasik Bishop Kurt. Manuil Olshavskyy who established a theologi- rick, Archbishop Emeritus of Washington, DC, priest. Every semi- cal school in Mukachevo in 1744. Since 1778 the blessed the new Seminary chapel. Since the reli- narian is engaged in pastoral activity: in the hos- school moved to Uzhhorod castle that Maria The- gious freedom, over 170 students have been grad- pitals, youth ministry, participating to the meet- resa donated to Andrij Bachynskyy, the bishop uated. ings of young Christian group “Faith and Light,” of Mukachevo. In 1941 the Seminary received catechetical activity, liturgical chant. All these ac- The academic term of the Seminary is seven the status of Academy. Since 1949 the Seminary tivities give the seminarian opportunity to know years where young men who received the vocation was closed because of the liquidation of the Mu- better the spiritual needs of this world, and to to the priesthood, desire to become good shep- cachevo Greek-Catholic Eparchy by the commu- grow in the personal vocation. herds for the people of God and to live the life in nist government. Nevertheless, the closing of the Christ in a more profound way. During the years The fifth year of the Seminary is especially Seminary did not cause the closing of the hearts of Seminary study, the candidate has the occasion dedicated to the pastoral growth of the seminar- of the young men who heard the Christ calling: to cultivate personal growth, to know oneself bet- ian, which is called “pastoral year”. It is the time “Follow me!”. ter and to recognize God’s design for him. that the seminarian spends during the year in the During the clandestine activity from 1956 till local parishes. It gives the the seminarian the op- The Seminary is not only academic but also 1991 fifty-three candidates were educated and or- portunuty to work with the youth, to take part a spiritual institution where the seminarians live dained to the priesthood. The religious freedom in actively in the parish life, and to experience the in community life. One of the most important 1989 gave the possibility to reopen the Seminary. “real” life of the priest. aspects of formation is the spiritual life. Thanks Page 14 Eastern Catholic Life OCTOBER 2014

Faith and Community Issues By Father Carmen Scuderi, OFM, Ed.D., P.C.C. The Family: A Community of Persons The Role of Indissolubility in the Marriage Covenant

n the perspective of Familiaris Consortio Brother Bishops assembled at the Holy Synod constellation of the family from parents and The Church sees the role of indissolubil- publicly extolled “those numerous couples who, children to the in-laws and “out-laws” is struc- ity inI the married state as a sine qua non to be through encountering no small difficulty, preserve tured. This communion begins with flesh and believed, accepted and lived out in cooperation and develop the value of indissolubility . . . they blood and grows into the supernatural bonds with the activity of the Holy Spirit in the life of perform the role committed to them of being in of spirit to spirit where the two become one in the married couple. In the midst of a cynical and the world a ‘sign’ . . . subjected to temptation but mind and heart and through that union reach- ephemeral world, the lived out experience of a always renewed—of the unfailing fidelity with ing out to the rest of the family membership. marriage that is lasting both reconfirms the foun- which God and Jesus Christ love each and every As with the couple so with the larger fam- dation of that lived out experience as a manifesta- human being.” (§20) ily membership; all are called to experience “a tion of Christ’s commitment to His Church and While the ideal of the matrimonial commit- new and original communion which confirms a challenge of the possibilities of permanence and ment is found in the relationship of the couple, and perfects natural and human communion” stability in relationship, to the impermanent, un- the document also recognizes the heroic coopera- (Familiaris Consortio, 1981, §21). The docu- stable values of the world. tion with God’s grace in the supreme witness of ments utilizes the perspective of ST. Thomas According to Familiaris Consortio through those who have divorced and remain single. Their Aquinas in describing this unique grace as the charism of indissolubility, the quality of per- witness to fidelity brings a great teaching to a cyn- a “grace of brotherhood” (Thomas Aquinas manence in a marriage bond, the original plan ical and ego-centered world. The document makes as quoted in Familiaris Consortio, §21). The of the Creator in fashioning Man and Women it clear that such witness must be strongly sup- Source and Fountain of this inexhaustible reaches its apex. The charism echoes the words ported by the Church in the person of their pas- grace is the Holy Spirit. His Labor is to gather of Genesis which the Author places into Adam’s tors and parishioners of the community to which all who believe and bond them to Jesus Christ mouth: “the man said: ‘This one, at last, is bone of these people belong. and each other within the context of the mem- my bones and flesh of my flesh; this one shall be bership of God’s Church. How this gathering called ‘woman’ for out of man this one has been Conjugal Communion and living out of the bond is experienced will taken.’” (Gen. 2:23) For the document, the intimacy of conjugal be the subject of our next installment. This bonding of man and woman in the bond communion is the base upon which the entire of marriage in fact is “the plan that God has manifested in his revelation . . . the indissolubility of marriage as a fruit, a sign and a requirement of the absolutely faithful love that God as for man and that the Lord Jesus has for the Church” (Fa- miliaris Consortio, 1981, §20). It is in the Mystery of Matrimony that the original plan of God for the union of Man and Woman created for the good of both Husband and Wife as well as the children coming as the fruit of the bond, come to full expression in this world renewed by Christ through this mystery, a new heart is created and offered the result of which is the removal of the heart of stone from the couple and the intimate love sharing of Christ himself, full and all-encompassing liter- ally, “the new and eternal Covenant made flesh” (Familiaris Consortio, 1981, §20). The implication becomes plain, as Christ is the faithful unconditional witness and positive response to God’s promises the Hesed, unconditional fidelity and love of God toward His people, and that Jesus has for the Church he founded; a love that is limitless, a love that is “to the end” (Jn. 13:1). There is more to this multi- faceted experience than just the charismatic perspective. Familiaris Consortio’s perspective speaks of the Mystery of Marriage as a calling from God, indeed a mandate to the Christian couple “that they may remain faithful to each other forever” (Familiaris Consortio, 1981 §20). This fidelity is to prove faithful beyond every test, every difficulty no matter the gravity of the situation, generously, obediently reflecting in their actions their free participation in the Sacred Will of God: “What therefore God has joined together, let not man put asunder.” (Mt. 19:16, as quoted in Familiaris Consortio, 1981 §20) Familiaris Consortio (1981) underscores the fact that indissolubility and fidelity of The Mys- tery of Marriage, is of inestimable value and the witnessing to this on the part of the couple is a task both priceless and extremely urgent at present. Saint John Paul II uniting himself with his OCTOBER 2014 Eastern Catholic Life Page 15

The ByzantineBy Archpriest Liturgy David Petras, SEOD Jesus the Resurrection and the Life

those who have fallen asleep. (1 you, whoever hears My word and descent into Hades is mentioned Corinthians 15:20)” believes in the one who sent Me more than fifty times in the ser- The story of the harrowing of has eternal life and will not come vices of Good Friday and Great Hades is not told in the Gospels, to condemnation, but has passed Saturday, more than two hundred but it has become an important from death to life. (John 5:24) .... times during the Pentecost period, part of the Paschal Mystery. The Amen, amen, I say to you, the hour and more than one hundred and icon of Pascha is, in fact, Jesus rais- is coming and is now here when fifty times in the Sunday and fes- ing Adam and Eve out of Hades. the dead will hear the voice of the tal hymns throughout the church If this passage is the image of the Son of God, and those who hear year.” general resurrection, then those will live. (John 5:25) .... For just as Certainly the core of the idea here is yet one other Res- raised do not die again. Saint the Father has life in himself, so of the destruction of death through urrection in the Gospel Matthew is making a theologi- also He gave to His Son the pos- Christ’s death on the Cross and of Matthew.T When Christ died cal statement here. He constantly session of life in Himself.” (John resurrection is found in the Scrip- on the Cross, Matthew states: points out how Jesus fulfills the 5:25-26) Saint Matthew witnesses tures. In the New Testament, we “But Jesus cried out again in a prophecies of the Old Testament, that what our Lord has foretold do find statements of Christ’s “de- loud voice, and gave up His spirit. and here he fulfills perhaps Eze- has already begun, though for us it scending” after His death on the And behold, the veil of the sanc- chial 37 (the dry bones) and Dan- remains a future hope. These gos- Cross: tuary was torn in two from top to iel 12:2-3, the clearest prophecy of pels are read at funerals to nour- bottom. The earth quaked, rocks “What does “He ascended” resurrection in the Old Testament, ish that hope and to comfort us on were split, tombs were opened, mean except that He also de- “Many of those who sleep in the the departure of those we love. and the bodies of many saints who scended into the lower [regions] of dust of the earth shall awake; A very important question had fallen asleep were raised. And the earth? The one who descended some to everlasting life, others to that this gospel brings, however, coming forth from their tombs af- is also the one who ascended far reproach and everlasting disgrace.” is that of the Descent into Ha- ter his resurrection, they entered above all the heavens, that He des. The resurrection narratives in the holy city and appeared to Though this event is recorded might fill all things.” (Ephesians the gospels do not describe Jesus many.” (Matthew 27:50-53) only in the Gospel of Saint Mat- 4:9-10) “For Christ also suffered thew, it has connections to the going down into the kingdom of for sins once, the righteous for This event is recorded only in other Gospels, particularly Saint death. The stories are quite sim- the sake of the unrighteous, that the Gospel of Saint Matthew, just John. This may be seen also as a ple: Jesus dies, is buried, and on he might lead you to God. Put to as in the case of the earthquakes fulfillment of his promise made in the third day the tomb is found death in the flesh, he was brought (at His death and resurrection). his Gospel, “ ... the hour is coming empty. This is followed by appear- to life in the spirit. In it he also No record of what happened to in which all who are in the tombs ances of Jesus to his followers. In went to preach to the spirits in these people who rose is given. will hear His voices and will come the Gospel passage of Saint Mat- prison.” (1 Peter 3:18-19) This Sometimes commentators seem out, those who have done good thew, however, we see the begin- was thought of as the preaching to say that they had to die again, deeds to the resurrection of life, ning of the Lord’s victory over of the gospel even to the departed: therefore, were like other resur- but those who have done wicked death, which has come to be de- “For this is why the gospel was rections Jesus did before His own deeds to the resurrection of con- picted in the icon of Jesus’ despoil- preached even to the dead that, death and resurrection. However, demnation.” (John 5:28-29) We ing Hades, of “trampling upon though condemned in the flesh in I think they are to be associated may, in fact, be familiar with this death by (His) death”, and which human estimation, they might live with the resurrection of Jesus. The verse, it is the Gospel passage has become the icon of the feast in the spirit in the estimation of passage says that they “appeared that is read at funerals. This is the of Pascha in the Church. There is God.” (1 Peter 4:6) “Amen, amen, to many” only after Jesus’ resur- theme of all of chapter 5 of the no graphic description of the de- I say to you, the hour is coming rection. The Lord’s death was the gospel of Saint John, and similar scent into Hades in the Gospels. and is now here when the dead victory over death, and what Mat- passages are found in alternate However, it did become an article will hear the voice of the Son of thew seems to be proclaiming here gospels passages that are read of faith. The Apostles Creed, used God, and those who hear will live.” is that the general resurrection when we pray for those who have in the Western Church, professes ( John 5:25) This simple passage began with Jesus. He has accom- fallen asleep ahead of us, “For just that Jesus “descended into Hell.” from Saint Matthew has become plished the salvation on the Cross as the Father raises the dead and The concept of the destruction the center of our faith, which we and the tree of life is now open to gives life, so also does the Son give of Hades likewise dominates proclaim at every Liturgy. humankind. As Saint Paul wrote, life to whomever He wishes .... the liturgical texts of the feast of “But now Christ has been raised ( John 5:21). Amen, amen, I say to Pascha. Archbishop Hilarion Al- from the dead, the first-fruits of feyev enumerates this: “Christ’s

8 Days in Rome & Assisi! January 26 – February 2, 2015 Hosted by Father Charles M. Yastishock and Father Edward G. Cimbala

$2399 per person from Newark Most Meals, Admission Fees, Porterage and Hotel Service (Air/land tour price is $1780 plus $619 govt. taxes/airline Charges fuel surcharges) Tour includes: Vatican City Museum & Sistine Chapel, Papal Tour Includes: Roundtrip Air from Newark, $619 Govt. Audience, Major Basilicas, Ancient Rome and Full-day Ex- taxes/Airline fuel surcharges, First Class/Select Hotel, cursion to Assisi For a brochure and more information con- Comprehensive Sightseeing with Professional Tour Escort, tact Father Charles Yastishock Tel: (732) 255-6272 Email: [email protected] Space is Limited! Call Today! Page 16 Eastern Catholic Life OCTOBER 2014

SubdeaconSeminarian Lewis Rabayda Reflections

“Yearning for the Lord”

any things happen in our lives that require our attention and that guarantee that us, or those around us will be there tomorrow. We are the pull us into different directions. These events can cause us to loose only constant in our own lives. We were present at our birth, and we (even our focusM and to place God at a distance, to place Him in the tomorrow that if we develop dementia, we will still be present to some degree) will be the never comes. But then there can be a day when we have a moment to look only person who has accompanied ourselves on the journey thought life to back and see why our lives have not gone the way we prefer, or if we have our death. endured more than enough suffering from calamities within and beyond our But luckily for us, there are more aspects to life than those that are lim- control. There may be a moment when we say, “Where is God?” “What hap- ited to the human realm. We have a God that created us. We have a God pened to God?” “When was the last time I felt the reassurance of God in that loves us. God in all three forms of the Holy Trinity, is “everywhere pres- prayer?” “Will He forgive me now, with all I’ve done, like He did when I was ent and filling all things.” We are not alone on this journey of life. There is a young?” If these questions bring up a faint memory of God or His action in Pro-Life saying that talks about the sanctity of human life “From Womb to our lives, or even His forgiveness for our sins, then we have let it go too far Tomb.” But God is present for much more than this, this saying just repre- and too long. If, I hope, that sometime in our past we have had the sweet sents our earthly existence. God has chosen us before we were born, He has feeling of God’s presence in our lives, in our prayer, then the appropriate re- been there for us through our lives, and He will be our God after our bodies sponse to these memories is similar to remembering an old friend, a deceased give out, and when we will be raised for the Eternal Paradise. parent or spouse or child, or a love that made us so happy, that we long for those moments again. Indeed, when we miss something or someone that was I hope and pray that each of us has had some good experience of God so precious to us that it was the most important thing or person in our lives, in our past that we can look back and say, “that was a good moment, those and they are gone, they are away, they have changed, or we ourselves caused were good years, I remember the joy I felt when I prayed regularly.” Because, the separation, we yearn for those good moments to return. unlike the good days that we experience and think we can never relive because of our age, because of death or loss or pride, we can always experience But the more experienced of us do not have the monopoly on loss or the good that we shared with God. God hasn’t gone away, even if we have longing. I do not think that younger people can long for moments they have stopped believing in Him, He has not stopped His pursuit for us. God is lost any less than the elderly can, because this is one instance in which time waiting for us to ask Him back into our lives. It is not that He has been ab- is relative. A 19 year old can miss the innocents of their youth just as a 74 sent from our lives, but He is waiting for us to reach out to Him, so that He year old can miss the spouse of their 50’s and all the joyful intimacy they can meet us on our path. To yearn for the Lord, is to long for the One that shared. Due to tragedies, youth can also mourn the loss of a parent due to completes us in a way that no other human being can. And if we do have this death or separation. We are humans, and we have heartache and pain that desire, if we stretch-out our arms and reach for God, reach for that memory has been caused by our own actions or by those of others. We naturally long of love that we haven’t experienced for some time, God will not disappoint for times when our lives were good, or in order, or productive, or we shared us as other humans have. God will shower us with His great forgiveness and it with those who helped us to be happy. But that begs the question of what love—what more could we need? makes us happy? “Look towards Him and be radiant, Again, we are humans, so we draw most of our feelings of love and affec- let your faces not be abashed. tion from the relationships we have with others. We would be sick to think This poor man called; the Lord heard him that material objects could offer more emotion or feelings of satisfaction and rescued him from all his distress.” —Psalm 33[34] than interactions with other people can. But there is one challenge that is limited to the fragility of human life: we may be here today, but there is no

Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory Forever! EparchialUpcoming and Parish Events Events for October

4 Beatification Ceremony October of Sister Miriam Teresa Demjanovich Sacred Heart Basilica · Newark, NJ 1 Holy Protection · Solemn Holy Day Chancery Closed 9:30 AM

5 Hierarchical Liturgy of Thanksgiving for the Beatification of Eastern Catholic Life Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich Circulation Department St. John Church · Bayonne, NJ 445 Lackawanna Avenue Woodland Park, NJ 07424 3:00 PM

12 100th Anniversary of Roebling Parish Next Issue: November, 2014 St. Nicholas Church · 3PM Copy Deadline: October 17th 18 Senior Seminar Resurrection Church · Smithtown, NY

The current issue of the ECL was print- ed at Evergreen Printing, Bellmawr, 23-26 Icon Retreat NJ and was distributed from the U.S. Franciscan Friary · Sybertsville, PA Post Office via second class mailing in Bellmawr, NJ. 31 Feast of Blessed Theodore Romzha