The Voice † of St. George

Winter 2018

St. George Serbian Orthodox Church Western American Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church in North & South America Table of Contents: 3. Father Bratso’s letter to the Saint George parish 5. Communique of the Holy Assembly of Bishops of the Serbian Orthodox Church on Kosovo and Metohija 8. Hymn of Praise by Saint Nikolai Velimi- rovic

9. From Serbian Patriarch Irinej to Ecu- menical Patriarch Bartholomew 19. Morava News by Cristina “Duki” Duko- vich 20. Sponsors of the 46th San Diego Serbi- an Festival

21. Letter from Sunday school teachers by Melanie Milicevic 22. Parish news and events 23. Statement of the Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church

26. Stole Report (January-November Front page: St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, San Diego, CA. 2018) Icon from St. Katherine monastery. Sinai, 12th century. 27. Become a St. George Steward Diocesan Bishop: The Right Rev. Bishop 28. Letter from the President Kate Thick- Dr. Maxim (Vasiljevic) stun Diocesan website http://westsrbdio.org ______29. St. George Stewardship List Photography: Reader Aleksandar Bradic 30. St. George Calendar of Events for 2019 Editor: Father Bratso Krsic Mail your materials to Natalia Valenti at [email protected]

3

can enter into the Nativity Fast Fast Nativity the into enter can

tian is in constant touch with the the with touch constant in is tian

to consider small ways that you you that ways small consider to

the Liturgy, the Orthodox Chris- Orthodox the Liturgy, the life. spiritual our into cretely

I encourage you as a family family a as you encourage I

them to heart and apply them con- them apply and heart to them In tradition. living and authentic

life? our into Child Nativity and Nativity Season, take take Season, Nativity and Nativity Church's the form (glorification)

may properly welcome Christ the the Christ welcome properly may Liturgy set forth in doxological doxological in forth set Liturgy - pre this words these template

pose is to prepare us so that we we that so us prepare to is pose Let us, my beloved in Christ, con- Christ, in beloved my us, Let the of texts the expressions, and

ing this holy season whose pur- whose season holy this ing

with biblical readings, imagery, imagery, readings, biblical with

Kingdom. His of heirs and

midst of such commercialism dur- commercialism such of midst

worship in the Church. Abounding Abounding Church. the in worship

us anew into children of God God of children into anew us

balance our spiritual life in the the in life spiritual our balance

enriched by the Divine Liturgy or or Liturgy Divine the by enriched

overcomes evil in us and makes makes and us in evil overcomes

need and do not need. How do we we do How need. not do and need

measure shaped, nourished, and and nourished, shaped, measure

death; the power of divine love love divine of power the death;

more and more for things that we we that things for more and more

Orthodox Christian is in large large in is Christian Orthodox

share in his victory over sin and and sin over victory his in share

advertising enticing us to shop shop to us enticing advertising

The life and character of an an of character and life The

Becoming one with Christ, we we Christ, with one Becoming

gun to bombard us with excessive excessive with us bombard to gun

distorts the image of God in us. us. in God of image the distorts Life Sacramental Our

world around us has already be- already has us around world

whose force attacks, pervades and and pervades attacks, force whose

mercialism and materialism of the the of materialism and mercialism life! our into

God, we also see the power of evil evil of power the see also we God,

Nativity Season when the com- the when Season Nativity May we welcome Christ worthily worthily Christ welcome we May

means to be human. Encountering Encountering human. be to means

as Orthodox Christians to live the the live to Christians Orthodox as us and our salvation (January 7). 7). (January salvation our and us

fully conscious of what it really really it what of conscious fully

mas Season. It is a challenge for us us for challenge a is It Season. mas His Birth in the flesh for for flesh the in Birth His – Lord the

ty: in Christ we learn to become become to learn we Christ in ty:

for the celebration of the Christ- the of celebration the for a time of waiting for the coming of of coming the for waiting of time a

enter upon a decisively new reali- new decisively a upon enter

year that prepares us spiritually spiritually us prepares that year - Season Fast Nativity the live can

Christ, in order to be Christ. We We Christ. be to order in Christ,

an important time of our Liturgical Liturgical our of time important an are some examples of how we we how of examples some are

them we encounter the Lord Jesus Jesus Lord the encounter we them

ber 28, we are reminded that it is is it that reminded are we 28, ber dren, orphans, widows, etc. These These etc. widows, orphans, dren,

tion of the germ of mortality." In In mortality." of germ the of tion

son of the Nativity Fast on Novem- on Fast Nativity the of son season donation for Kosovo chil- Kosovo for donation season

fallen humanity and "the elimina- "the and humanity fallen

As we enter this holy sea- holy this enter we As mark your special Nativity Fast Fast Nativity special your mark

cates salvation, the cure of our our of cure the salvation, cates

Wednesday of each month); ear- month); each of Wednesday

Christ.

power of God, which communi- which God, of power

our parish serves on the third third the on serves parish our

of our Lord and Savior Jesus Jesus Savior and Lord our of

various ways to the transforming transforming the to ways various

1625 Island Ave. Ave. Island 1625 – Hand tended

state as we anticipate the Nativity Nativity the anticipate we as state

They introduce us endlessly and in in and endlessly us introduce They

istry in downtown at God’s Ex- God’s at downtown in istry

all in good health and spiritual spiritual and health good in all

things to come through them. them. through come to things

meal for the homeless (Focus min- (Focus homeless the for meal

I pray that this message finds you you finds message this that pray I

and have the insight of the the of insight the have and

pray and fast every day; prepare a a prepare day; every fast and pray

now. We are given the vision vision the given are We now.

Dear Parishioners and friends, and Parishioners Dear

Sunday during this Nativity Fast; Fast; Nativity this during Sunday

make that life real, here and and here real, life that make

Liturgy (Holy Communion) every every Communion) (Holy Liturgy

for the future life, but they also also they but life, future the for

fession and participation in the the in participation and fession

[mysteries] prepare the faithful faithful the prepare [mysteries]

or the Prologue online); plan con- plan online); Prologue the or

The sacraments sacraments The

Orthoprax app for iphone users; users; iphone for app Orthoprax

Christ. Jesus Lord The (see saints of lives the read meal;

– life eternal of food the with ished each after and before prayer a say

Through the Liturgy, we are nour- are we Liturgy, the Through together; meal your eat to down

taste of the things to come. come. to things the of taste sit you as table the on it place

tion of the Holy Spirit, and a fore- a and Spirit, Holy the of tion and candle special a light tree;

of the spiritual world, an acquisi- an world, spiritual the of Christmas your on ornaments

praise of a biblical people, a vision vision a people, biblical a of praise - tree - icon some put activity;

fervent prayer, a living sacrifice of of sacrifice living a prayer, fervent family a Christmas for home your

Worship becomes a theology of of theology a becomes Worship in decoration a make to be might

fundamental truths of the faith. faith. the of truths fundamental way small One year. this Season

PARISH THE TO LETTER BRATSO’S FATHER

Events in our parish budget. I am grateful to each of them calendar available to our parishion- for their dedication to our parish ers and friends. To that end, we use Many community building and fel- ministries. The next focus is on the our parish website lowship events have taken place in remodel of the hall, the installation of (StGeorgeInSD.org), Facebook, our parish. It is through your gener- air-conditioning, heating, and then emails, phone calls and regular US osity, love and sacrifice that we con- the projects inside and around the postal service. Please, let us know tinue sustaining our parish minis- church (floor, air-conditioning, heat- (619-276-5827; stgeorgeparishof- tries, growing and planning for the ing, sidewalk, etc.) The sequence of [email protected]) if you do not re- future. The San Diego Serbian Festi- these projects is yet to be deter- ceive some of this information. Addi- val stands out as the major event. As mined. Your continued support and tionally, for your spiritual edification I’ve mentioned to many, we can prayers for the completion are great- and growth, I suggest the Orthoprax measure the ‘success’ of these events ly appreciated. app (daily lives of saints with pray- by the number of attendees or funds ers and scriptural readings), our Bi- that we were able to raise. Indeed, Dichotomy of spiritual and materi- ble Study/Faith talks on Wednesday it’s a good way to look at it. al night, and Sunday school for your However, as your parish priest, I look There cannot be a sharp distinction children. Also, I recommend the AFR at these events from the perspective between our spiritual and material (Ancient Faith Radio) app offering of the way they were executed. I life. We live in this world that we are talks and music, as well as Orthodox have in mind the way that our pa- called to transform with our actions, Christian Network (myocn.net). Fi- rishioners worked together, support- prayer and acquisition of the Holy nally, please feel free to reach out to ed each other in the process and Spirit. The spiritual dimension is me with any questions, my cell gave each other enough room to woven deeply into the very texture phone number is 619-316-2362 and demonstrate ingenuity and creative- of people's everyday lives. It is not an email: [email protected]. All ness. So in my mind, this year’s SD extra ingredient, an add-on factor. In this is for your enlightenment and Serbian Festival was by far the most religious practice, people should feel more frequent participation. successful. Let us continue working and know that the down-to-earth Thank you together for our cherished St. George integrity of their everyday lives is parish encouraging each other to being acknowledged and celebrated. It is an incredible gift for me reach new levels of spiritual and in- What is celebrated is not just some to serve as your parish priest. We tellectual accomplishments. My pro- esoteric dimension of their lives, but walk this journey of our Orthodox found gratitude goes out to all of a concrete existence in this world Faith together. The Nativity Season you! that we, in cooperating with God, are of gift giving is indeed a special time called to transform. Our Sunday par- of our year, and the gift of Jesus Our church property ticipation in the Liturgy is not just Christ coming into our lives is truly The last couple of years have been reserved for those two hours. We the greatest of gifts! marked as years of continued prop- must take the Liturgy we’ve experi- Many of you generously make contri- erty maintenance and improve- enced and concretely took a part in, butions to the Church at the end of ments, e.g. patio area, parking lot, the back into the world, i.e. share it, wit- the calendar year. This year, Decem- hall roof, shed doors, Sunday school ness it, speak about it, live it. Alas, to ber 31 falls on a Monday. If you are room, remodel of Dopudja and Gre- have this happen, we must be totally making end of year contributions, govich properties [these properties taken up to Heaven, lay aside all please do so by or on Sunday, De- were endowed to our parish], the earthly cares, and be immersed total- cember 30th or mail your dated patio area extension with a retaining ly in the Divine Liturgy, singing re- checks for 2018 to our church ad- wall and gazebo (thank you to Kath- sponses together with the choir and dress: St. George SOC, 3025 Denver leen Rutherford and her sister looking at each movement and find- Street, San Diego, CA 92117. Kathy) and the list goes on. There is a ing out what it means – what reality lot yet to be accomplished. it communicates to us, where it’s tak- Have a blessed Nativity Season! What must be noted is that ing us spiritually. You’re all in my daily prayers. the Parish Council/Church Board Resources and information members, just as the previous ones, It’s always been our goal here at St. With profound thanks and humble prayers, have been working hard in prioritiz- George to make our parish activity ing these projects based on our Fr. Bratso Krsic

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 4

5

the international and local political political local and international the

tics and the faithful people of the the of people faithful the and tics living conditions have been estab- been have conditions living

ed against our people. We remind remind We people. our against ed

Prizren, his clergy, monas- clergy, his Prizren, - ka Ras of which must continue until normal normal until continue must which

and other forms of pressure target- pressure of forms other and

port to His Grace Bishop Teodosije Teodosije Bishop Grace His to port with the UNSC Resolution 1244, 1244, Resolution UNSC the with

especially many incidents, thefts thefts incidents, many especially

tohija, first of all express our sup- our express all of first tohija, and the OSCE mission in accordance accordance in mission OSCE the and

cern due to the latest developments, developments, latest the to due cern

forces KFOR KFOR forces - peace international Me- and Kosovo in facing are faithful

Furthermore, we express our con- our express we Furthermore,

the presence and active role of the the of role active and presence the the and Church our which times cult

cially emphasize the importance of of importance the emphasize cially identity. our and diffi- these in Irinej, Patriarch bian

allow any violence. We there espe- there We violence. any allow spirituality Orthodox Serbian the Ser- Holiness His by headed Church

nified life for all citizens and not to to not and citizens all for life nified of heartland the Metohija, and sovo Orthodox Serbian the of Bishops the

obliged to provide peaceful and dig- and peaceful provide to obliged Ko- in remain and persist to efforts we Bishops, of Assembly Holy the

representatives that they are are they that representatives their in Prizren - ka Ras of Diocese of meeting autumn the at Gathered

METOHIJA AND KOSOVO

ON ON CHURCH ORTHODOX SERBIAN THE OF BISHOPS OF

ASSEMBLY HOLY THE OF COMMUNIQUE

lished for all communities in Koso- creasingly strong international enjoy support of the majority of vo and Metohija. pressures on our country to agree Serbia’s citizens and Serbs all over On this occasion too, we repeat the to renounce Kosovo and Metohija, the world. Territorial partition is firm and unanimous position of all either by a direct act of recogni- especially dangerous because it the members of the Assembly of tion of Kosovo or by a tacit ap- would inevitably mean the crea- Bishops of our Church expressed proval of Kosovo’s membership in tion of ethnic clean territories, at the annual meeting in May, that the UN and other international or- which would have unforeseeable ganizations. Any signature which consequences for the region, still the full sovereignty and in- would ultimately enable recogni- painfully recovering from the suf- tegrity of Serbia in Kosovo tion of Kosovo, participation in the fering and destruction inflicted and Metohija cannot be UN or Serbia’s renouncement of it during the 1990s. For this reason questioned under no cir- in any form, would forever deprive our Church has always supported cumstances, as it is guaran- Serbia of her historical rights to building of a society in teed by the Constitution of the area so fundamentally im- which peoples of different origin portant for our spirituality and can live in peace, with full protec- Serbia and the UNSCR 1244. statehood. tion and respect of their religious, For our Church, Kosovo and Meto- We are particularly concerned cultural and ethnic identities. hija has never been nor can ever that under the disguise of the The Holy Assembly of Bishops is be only a political issue whose alleged “delimitation between particularly concerned that as solving is under exclusive monop- Serbs and Albanians” the possi- of 2007 our Church has never oly of the state authorities. For us, bility of separation from Serbia been officially invited to express throughout our history and today, is intruded – if not of all Kosovo her suggestions on the protec- Kosovo and Metohija has primarily and Metohija, then of its great- tion of our holy sites, clergy, mo- been a question of the survival of est and most important part, nastics and the faithful. For our clergy, monastics and the which would lead to its recogni- years we have been insisting on faithful people and, especially, our tion as a part of either inde- adequate protection of our holy ancient holy sites without which pendent Kosovo or even of the sites because we have witnessed we would never become what we so-called Greater Albania. not only everyday blatant lack of are today. Consequences of such a decision implementation of the existing le- As we cannot discuss the survival would be tragic for the future of gal provisions (related to the ele- of our people, especially of the vul- our people and our holy sites. In ments of the “Ahtisaari plan” nerable majority of the Serbs liv- such a scenario the majority of which were incorporated in the so ing south of the Ibar river, without Serbs, deprived of adequate pro- -called Kosovo legislation) even in the preservation of our holy sites, tection and security, would be spite of international pressures, we equally cannot discuss the forced to flee their historical but we have also seen that local preservation of our holy sites as homeland, where an ethnic clean self-proclaimed Kosovo institu- cultural and religious monuments Albanian society would be estab- tions continue with impunity the only, whose survival is allegedly lished with even greater intensity, process which is aimed at creation of ethnic clean Albanian Kosovo in possible without our congregation. and with obliteration of all traces Our holy sites have their deepest of our historical existence. The which in the long run there would meaning solely as places of liturgi- idea of the so-called partition or be no place for Serbs and other cal gathering of our people, not separation of the organic unity be- non-Albanian communities. only of those from Kosovo and Me- tween the Serbs south and north Systematic avoidance of the ac- tohija, but from all Serb-inhabited of the Ibar river, and of them joint- cepted obligations of Pris tina re- regions and the world. ly from the other Serbs, no matter lated to the Community of Serbian Our obligations towards Kosovo where they live, creates lots of un- Municipalities and other obliga- and Metohija are more profound easiness and grave concern tions from the “Brussels dialog” today, as we have been facing in- amongst our people and does not only confirms that in the current

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 6

7

further dialogue without creating creating without dialogue further in- basic the would way this Only

It is also very hard to talk about any any about talk to hard very also is It history. the throughout pate.

ples of protection. protection. of ples as the crucial factor of our identity identity our of factor crucial the as partici- would society our of factors

plementation of the agreed princi- agreed the of plementation the spiritual tradition of our Church Church our of tradition spiritual the relevant all which of preparation

clearly defined mechanisms of im- of mechanisms defined clearly ment inseparably intertwined with with intertwined inseparably ment the in platform national and state

an international supervision and and supervision international an has been from its very establish- very its from been has a of building the to attention more

in a more comprehensive way with with way comprehensive more a in selves that the statehood of Serbia Serbia of statehood the that selves pay tina, Pris with issues of

institutions, but would be regulated regulated be would but institutions, importance that we all remind our- remind all we that importance settlement hasty seeking of instead

will of the local Kosovo Kosovo local the of will - self the on our Holy Church it is of paramount paramount of is it Church Holy our that Serbia of Republic the of tives

years’ Jubilee of the Autocephaly of of Autocephaly the of Jubilee years’ representa- state the on appeal We depend not would which heritage

With the approaching of the 800 800 the of approaching the With cultural and spiritual vulnerable

justification. any out

and more efficient protection of the the of protection efficient more and

respect. mutual and with- is Union European the in tion

strengthening of the legal security security legal the of strengthening

to live with one another in peace peace in another one with live to situa- complex very a and ground

provement of the rule of law, law, of rule the of provement

the readiness and ability of all of us us of all of ability and readiness the the on conditions unfavorable ly

human and religious rights, im- rights, religious and human

of the region primarily depends on on depends primarily region the of extreme- despite deadlines hasty of

primarily focus on the protection of of protection the on focus primarily

parts of Serbia, because the future future the because Serbia, of parts imposing reason, this For Metohija.

fully guided dialog which would would which dialog guided fully

and Metohija, as well as in other other in as well as Metohija, and and Kosovo in problems of solution

continuation of an open but care- but open an of continuation

ples of good will who live in Kosovo Kosovo in live who will good of ples durable a about talk to impossible

we encourage the the encourage we – contrary the on

sovo Albanians and all other peo- other all and Albanians sovo is it preconditions, these Without

Church supports “a frozen conflict”, conflict”, frozen “a supports Church

dence and understanding with Ko- with understanding and dence deal. done a as cleaning ethnic

This by no means implies that our our that implies means no by This

we need to continue building confi- building continue to need we war - post the of approval an mean

be reestablished. At the same time, time, same the At reestablished. be would request this Abandoning ty. solution. term

cial counterparts in the land would would land the in counterparts cial proper- usurped their of restitution - long a find to hard very be would

and the confidence of all crucial so- crucial all of confidence the and and protection the Serbs, pelled it Serbs the towards behavior ing

terests of our people be preserved preserved be people our of terests ex- the of return the for conditions exist- the with and circumstances

Thou didst create the world, As a slave Thou didst debase Thyself to loose the enslaved, To restore the house that Ad- am destroyed, To enlighten the darkened, to unloose sinners. Love that knows not fear or humiliation- Welcome, O Christ! The Mas- ter of Salvation! Out of burning love, O King of all beauty, Thou didst leave the radiance of the beautiful Cherubim, Thou didst descend into the cave of human life, To despairing men, with a torch and peace. How to contain Thee?-The earth became frightened. Welcome, O Christ! Heaven bears Thee up! The most beautiful Virgin for a long time hoped in Thee. The earth raises her to Thee, that through her Thou wilt de- scend From the lofty throne, from the heavenly city, To bring health, to release man from sin. O Holy Virgin, Golden Censer- Hymns of Praise To thee be glory and praise, O The Nativity of Our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ Mother full of grace!

Out of burning love, Thou ness of evil. By Saint Nikolai Velimirović didst come down from heav- Thou didst extend Thy holy Icon of Mother of God of Murom en; hand to those choked in sin. From eternal beauty, Thou Heaven was amazed, the earth didst descend into monstrous quaked. pain; Welcome, O Christ! From eternal light, Thou didst O ye peoples, rejoice! descend into the thick dark- Out of burning love, by which

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 8

9

which branded the ethnophylite ethnophylite the branded which lands. Slavic Southern the is which of paramount roots, torical

Council in Constantinople (1872), (1872), Constantinople in Council A similar thing also took place in in place took also thing similar A his- deeper even nevertheless, has,

the ecumenical significance of the the of significance ecumenical the The Ukrainian separatist mindset mindset separatist Ukrainian The “Ukraines”.

among its other decrees, validated validated decrees, other its among border regions were also entitled entitled also were regions border

Synod that took place in Crete, Crete, in place took that Synod apostles, baptized. Other Other baptized. apostles, - the - to stan’s.”

portant that the Holy and Great Great and Holy the that portant Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and other “ other and Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, - equal Vladimir, Prince 1030, fore -

In this connection, it is very im- very is it connection, this In part of the Kievan Rus, which be- which Rus, Kievan the of part Kazakhstan, into divisions, tional

part of a greater whole, namely, a a namely, whole, greater a of part na- to according divided, was stan”

Orthodoxy. contemporary of laises means frontier or border region, a a region, border or frontier means Turke- “Russian former the more,

stitutes one of the principal ma- principal the of one stitutes evident. As matter of fact, “Ukraine” “Ukraine” fact, of matter As evident. further- also Indeed, language. and

the heresy of ethnophyletism con- ethnophyletism of heresy the then even of the Church, makes this this makes Church, the of even then identity” “national particular a with

the Synod, it became apparent that that apparent became it Synod, the name of the state and nation, and and nation, and state the of name again federation, the of part ent

From the brotherly discussion in in discussion brotherly the From contemporary Ukraine. The very very The Ukraine. contemporary constitu- a be to “elevated” was rus

decision. Your by frocked well as the fratricidal conflicts in in conflicts fratricidal the as well Bela- also, manner same the in tion:

Most Holy Church, who was de- was who Church, Holy Most both of the ecclesiastical schisms as as schisms ecclesiastical the of both excep- an not was Ukraine guage.

Dedeic , a former clergyman of Your Your of clergyman former a , Dedeic background for the spiritual origins origins spiritual the for background lan- Ukrainian special a of status

gro, which is led by a certain Miras Miras certain a by led is which gro, but for a reliable highlighting of the the of highlighting reliable a for but official the received amalgamation

problem of the “sect” in Montene- in “sect” the of problem knowledge among certain others, others, certain among knowledge linguistic this and whole one into

nia and elsewhere, as well as the the as well as elsewhere, and nia sinuate imperfect historical historical imperfect sinuate combined were time that at Russia

mer Yugoslav Republic of Macedo- of Republic Yugoslav mer t , s s e l h c u m , r o e g d e l w o n k l a c i of regions Western the of liarities n- i o

East, namely, in Ukraine, in the For- the in Ukraine, in namely, East, these things for proof of our histor- our of proof for things these pecu- linguistic the and proclaimed,

problem of schisms in the Orthodox Orthodox the in schisms of problem We certainly do not refer to all all to refer not do certainly We especially was nation” “Ukrainian

among other matters, was the the was matters, other among a Union, Soviet the of states

year, discussed in the synod, synod, the in discussed year, Ukraine. of Nazis federated the of one as time same

April 29 to May 10 of the present present the of 10 May to 29 April wholeheartedly supported by the the by supported wholeheartedly the at established was Ukraine Rus,

Church, which took place from from place took which Church, pathological apex, which was was which apex, pathological Kievan the of territories the Within

Holy Synod of the Hierarchy of our our of Hierarchy the of Synod Holy Ordained” constitutes the the constitutes Ordained” - Self

During the annual meeting of the the of meeting annual the During sized, of which the “Church of the the of “Church the which of sized, Protestantism.

Holiness, - All Your

ment are at the same time empha- time same the at are ment liberal of standards the to cording

the ecclesiastical separatist move- separatist ecclesiastical the ac- deformed, been had rather but

schisms in Ukraine and elsewhere. and Ukraine in schisms

ecclesiastical ethnophylitism and and ethnophylitism ecclesiastical reformed, was moreover but ties,

methodology of overcoming of of overcoming of methodology Alongside the separatist tendency, tendency, separatist the Alongside authori- Soviet the of perspective

Orthodox Church regarding the the regarding Church Orthodox the from one legitimate only the

Subject: the position of the Serbian Serbian the of position the Subject: death). was which Church,” “Living the or

(Babi Yar and other places of of places other and Yar (Babi Church” “Renovated the with head,

Constantinople In

caust of the Jewish community community Jewish the of caust its at Tikhon patriarch holy the ing

Bartholomew Kyrios Kyrios

(“banderovtsi”) and of the holo- the of and (“banderovtsi”) hav- Church canonical the replace

Patriarch Ecumenical

the form of Ukrainian Nazism Nazism Ukrainian of form the to attempt the through as well as and Rome New

the flowers of evil blossomed under under blossomed evil of flowers the Church”, “Living the and “reforms” Constantinople of Archbishop

Holiness - All His To In the soil of this separatist path, path, separatist this of soil the In of creation the through Union

2018 13, August Belgrade,

spread by force during later years. years. later during force by spread Soviet the in place took this Firstly,

1163 No. Prot.

of the 16th century, which was was which century, 16th the of Church. the of body the solving

Church Orthodox Serbian the of

Litovsk at the end end the at Litovsk - Brest of Unia the dis- venom” “snake a also as heresy Synod Holy

BARTHOLOMEW PATRIARCH ECUMENICAL TO

IRINEJ PATRIARCH SERBIAN FROM

Communist Yugoslavia was orga- cause of the intervening death of While three canonically- nized in a manner consistent with the state. As formerly in the Soviet ordained bishops of the Church of the Soviet model and example: the Union, this development was ac- Serbia created the schism of Skop- state was converted into a federa- companied by the creation of new je, our Church up to the present tion, subdivided into a supposed churches, to speak more accurate- time did not defrock either them or “republic” (in 1974, it was indeed ly, of schisms, which served the their successors, having the princi- transformed into a confederation, Communist party and its ideology. ple of economy, awaiting eagerly i.e., it was broken up into coexist- Among other things, Tito’s regime their repentance and not making ing states, and finally, in 1991, was thus declared the southern ecclesi- their desirable reintegration diffi- divided, both externally and inter- astical provinces, which were as- cult in the future. In contrast to nally, into “separately existing” signed by the Patriarchate of Con- them, worth no regard, in this con- states and provinces). Concurrent- stantinople in the Tomos of 1922 nection a non-governmental organ- ly, newly-minted nationalities to the Patriarchate of Serbia, to be ization in the form of a church, the (“Montenegrins,” “Macedonians” a “Macedonian Orthodox Church.” self-labeled Montenegrin Church namely the nascent “Northern Mac- It is unique in the history of the was founded by a defrocked clergy- edonians,” “Muslims” who were Church, that a communist party is man of the Patriarchate of Constan- renamed into “Bosnians”) and new- also the founder [of a Church], as is tinople and registered in a public ly-created languages (Montenegrin, also stated in the relevant decree, police station. Accordingly, at no Macedonian, Bosnian) were pro- published in the meantime. A much point of his confused life, did this claimed. worse and more serious case is tat shifty and tragic person serve as an The process of further de- of the so-called Church of Montene- Orthodox bishop. False clergymen velopment of “nations” and gro. make up his “clergy,” either de- “languages” was interrupted be- frocked clergy or ones he himself

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 10

11

overcome. in but sought, is autocephaly which - newly the onward, time that

The states, nations and “nations,” in in “nations,” and nations states, The From Church. and faith Christian the desired that she might remedy and and remedy might she that desired

though in practice as far as possible possible as far as practice in though of schisms, which, otherwise, it is is it otherwise, which, schisms, of

pecially also of protracting the life life the protracting of also pecially nations. all to mission primal inherently, and ideally serve people

the state, state authority and the the and authority state state, the orthodox unity, but es- but unity, orthodox - pan to harm her also perhaps way this in God, of

any hasty action capable of affecting affecting of capable action hasty any Church the of character ecumenical Romanoff, Nicholas tsar, martyred

is it permitted for her to proceed to to proceed to her for permitted it is and catholic the threatening only holy the of years the until Great

influences or pressures whatsoever whatsoever pressures or influences thing one achieve they nevertheless, the Constantine emperor holy the

Church. Under no circumstances, circumstances, no Under Church. societies; Christianized possible, of years the from words, other In

might serve for the unity of the the of unity the for serve might historically is it as far so the, to and

State. and Church of “symphony” thartically and sacrificially, she she sacrificially, and thartically peoples baptized to Church thodox

throne of the Church, so that, ca- that, so Church, the of throne Or- the of relationship the on claims of tradition the cultivated and state

served the idea of the Christian Christian the of idea the served is called, in the capacity of first first of capacity the in called, is their for foundations the lays days

“Byzantine commonwealth” pre- commonwealth” “Byzantine chate, to our Mother Church, which which Church, Mother our to chate, r u o f o t e s d n i m c i r t n e c - e t a t s r a l u

his family in Russia (1918), the the (1918), Russia in family his cially to the Ecumenical Patriar- Ecumenical the to cially sec- the and ethnophylitism healthy

til the assassination of the tsar and and tsar the of assassination the til We address these questions espe- questions these address We un- The Church. any to tocephaly

fall of the Roman Empire (1453) un- (1453) Empire Roman the of fall au- of conferment the of subject the

Furthermore, from even after the the after even from Furthermore, it? please and to conform to applies particularly rule” “golden

world, is it permitted for her to to her for permitted it is world, present The them. among newer

local Orthodox Churches. Churches. Orthodox local to transfigure and save the fallen fallen the save and transfigure to the for Church Mother a even also

Church of the first throne among the the among throne first the of Church an abuse? For she who is intended intended is who she For abuse? an but throne, first the of Church the

joys the position and the rank of the the of rank the and position the joys the Church is permitted for such such for permitted is Church the against attitude unprincipled and

and whose Church even today en- today even Church whose and Can it be that the condescension of of condescension the that be it Can unseemly forbid, God or, grateful

bishop of the Old Rome in the West West the in Rome Old the of bishop un- an themselves for permit to

the authority and influence of the the of influence and authority the Faith. Churches sister other the for priate

of the Roman Empire was equal to to equal was Empire Roman the of of an abuse of the Church and of the the of and Church the of abuse an of appro- not likewise is it However,

influence in the Eastern provinces provinces Eastern the in influence In the last analysis, it is a question question a is it analysis, last the In

New Rome, whose authority and and authority whose Rome, New Romiosini. of age” “golden

Rome, as well as the bishop of the the of bishop the as well as Rome, interests. vulgar and the during namely, might, and fame

with among other things, the New New the things, other among with sentially atheistic ideology, power power ideology, atheistic sentially her of height the during practice

dowed the Church and the world, world, the and Church the dowed strengthening their worldly and es- and worldly their strengthening even not did she that things those

This Orthodox Christian Empire en- Empire Christian Orthodox This unsuitably , for the purpose of of purpose the for , unsuitably of practice the herself for permit

they use it as suitable, but rather rather but suitable, as it use they she that appropriate not is it cerely, adopted. also Empire the of ries

ly, they are its faithful members, but but members, faithful its are they ly, sin- and manner open an in speak bounda- the of outside themselves

cephalous Church because, alleged- because, Church cephalous To responsibility. singular new, a found who those which civilization,

ates. They do not seek an auto- an seek not do They ates. with and world changed damentally and morality Christian of protector

the schismatics, and among the Uni- the among and schismatics, the fun- a in position, new altogether an the and Churches Christian cient

seen in the canonical Church, among among Church, canonical the in seen in Church, the of history the in age” an- many of land vital and spiritual

as the president of Ukraine, who is is who Ukraine, of president the as “Constantinian the of end the ter the constituted and state, model

comprehensive believer” such such believer” comprehensive - “all af- herself, finds specifically Christ, a was Empire Roman Eastern The

atheist head of Montenegro or the the or Montenegro of head atheist of Church Great the throne, first the

ers, such as the unbaptized and and unbaptized the as such ers, and generally Church the Therefore, them. by supported is

the most part have atheists as lead- as atheists have part most the “Church” the also because Muslims,

of the Communists, which today for for today which Communists, the of Gospel. the to contrary such [including] likelihood all in

and national agenda, are creations creations are agenda, national and directly being often but Christian, “Muslims,” some including atheists,

tivity for the invocation of the state state the of invocation the for tivity - non rule a as authority, and gy even some unbaptized, are part

openly excuse their pernicious ac- pernicious their excuse openly ideolo- their serve to Church the use most the for that “sympathizers,”

schisms” take effect, which also also which effect, take schisms” to effort much with attempt tions and leaders political are “faithful”

sponsored “political “political sponsored - state practice na- and states secularized created his to belonging and “ordained,” had

This general principle quite espe- es: how is the change of this num- An eloquent example of these cially applies concerning the now ber of autocephalous churches things being the case is precisely tragic schisms, namely, concerning possible, absent a new Council? our Church, the Serbian Orthodox such ones in Ukraine. A one-sided Next, by the statement in question Church. Our Mother Church is the act of exonerating and restoring of the Council in Crete, it is af- Church of Constantinople. schismatics to the rank of bishops, firmed implicitly that the autono- but quite especially of the mous Church of Ukraine is found Previously it came under the juris- archschismatic, of Filaret Denysen- under the jurisdiction of the Patri- diction of the Archbishop of ko the “patriarch” of Kiev, and of archate of Moscow and that it Ochrid, but today, as a conse- restoration of liturgical and canon- wholly belongs to it organically. In quence of many historical events ical communion with the schis- this case it is unfathomable that and of the Tomos provided in Con- matic communities, without their the Russian Orthodox Church does stantinople in 1922, the Archbish- repentance and return to unity not have jurisdiction for the ca- op of Ochrid comes under the ju- with the Russian Orthodox Church nonical establishment of the risdiction of the Serbian Orthodox from which they broke away, Church in Ukraine, but that the Church. In the case of these things, against the will of the Patriarchate “Mother Church,” namely, the the following results: concerning of Moscow and without coordinat- Church of Constantinople, does the future status of the Archbishop ing with it, would be, according to have jurisdiction. of Ochrid, it is not possible for the our belief, very unsafe or even cat- Ecumenical Throne to decide de astrophic, but even potentially fa- Being viewed under the prism of jure, absent the Church of Serbia, tal for the unity of holy Orthodoxy. history, the Church of Constanti- for the simplest reason that the nople is equally Mother Church Archbishop of Ochrid is found un- Such an act would signify at the of both Kiev and Moscow, and of der the canonical jurisdiction of same time an unbrotherly atti- Peć (with Belgrade and Kar- the Church of Serbia, as it is also tude towards the martyred lovci) and Tyrnavos (Sardica, recorded in the Tomos of 1922. Church in the Russian lands, Sredets, Sofia), and others… If when this by no means is ex- then she has the right of interven- Since then, all the Orthodox pected from the martyred Great ing in one autocephalous Church, Churches without exception recog- Church of Christ. The interven- then, as a consequence, she pos- nize this jurisdiction. The same tion of Your predecessor (who sesses the right of intervention in thing applies also for Ukraine, but came to a blessed end), the ecu- every single autocephalous to speak more accurately, for menical patriarch Gregory VII, in Church. Kievan Rus, a Church that without the affairs of the Russian Church a doubt and undeniably is subject approximately a century ago, as In the meantime, the honor and to the jurisdiction of the Patriar- well as his attitude towards the dignity of ecclesiastical mother- chate of Moscow, and which has holy patriarch Tikhon, the confes- hood does not provide the Mother the status of an autonomous sor of the faith, on the one hand, Church with the right of setting no Church. and towards the schism of the value on or, all the moreso, of “renovationists” on the other, questioning autocephalies and ju- Your Most Holy Church, All- should not be used as an example risdictions that were historically Holiness, puts forward from time for emulation. formed. In the same manner, es- to time the claim that the Metropo- tablished jurisdictional status does lis of Kiev belongs in reality to her Nor may the fact be overlooked not give the Churches the right to and that it has belonged to her that the Holy and Great Council in belittle and disdain the Mother continually. Nevertheless, we won- Crete confirmed in its ecclesiologi- Church or to pretend that they for- der with all brotherly love and cal encyclical the existence of four- got that a Church is the one who honor: how the fact can be ex- teen autocephalous Orthodox spiritually gave birth to them, or to plained that Moscow for so long Churches in their present canoni- “order” a Mother for themselves a time, for three centuries and cal boundaries. The question aris- (like the schism of the Skopjans). more, exercised and now exer-

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 12

13

συνἀποφἀί νετἀί] νετἀί] συνἀποφἀί wise a false clergyman, clergyman, false a wise Pri- the of presence the in neva it). without or

“archimandrite” Boris Bojovic , like- , Bojovic Boris “archimandrite” Ge- sy Chambe in given was which νετἀί/ ποφἀί ἀ [ together” ed

Kievan Rus, the legate of Dedeic , , Dedeic of legate the Rus, Kievan promise, Your of both You mind decid- is decided/it is “it addition,

ly point not agreed upon (with the the (with upon agreed not point ly anniversary of the baptism of the the of baptism the of anniversary re- to obligated are we however,

ganized by Filaret for the 1030th 1030th the for Filaret by ganized briefly, indeed even not mind, on- the was autocephaly for Tomos

grieve You at all come into our our into come all at You grieve the signing of manner The chate. July 28, during the celebrations or- celebrations the during 28, July

him, visited him, and recently, on on recently, and him, visited him, ag- or offend to intent and desire Patriar- Ecumenical the of Centre

Montenegro,” concelebrates with with concelebrates Montenegro,” the does way no in Holiness, - All sy Chambe the by publshed odika

nizes Dedeic as “metropolitan of of “metropolitan as Dedeic nizes Syn- periodical the of pages the in

alone in the world, Filaret recog- Filaret world, the in alone (!). years consecutive 1,350 published was text official finitive

might be magnified still more, more, still magnified be might for way this in indeed acting aly, de- relevant The manner. orthodox

order that the disorder and chaos chaos and disorder the that order autoceph- removes or grants bus), - pan a in agreed also was cephalies

nor is it possible to do this. But in in But this. do to possible it is nor pari- (sine equals without rest, the auto- new declaring and acquiring

Church, has questioned these facts facts these questioned has Church, absent alone, Throne Ecumenical for process the labor, theological

beginning with Your Most Holy Holy Most Your with beginning the that Church, Holy Most Your of decades after that, out, point to

Within this context we are obliged obliged are we context this Within anathematized. Not one Church, Church, one Not anathematized. of hierarchs the of one of stance

communicated and, in addition, addition, in and, communicated the not and Churches Orthodox

mediocrity. is not only defrocked, but also ex- also but defrocked, only not is local the of position accepted and

onist, know better than our own own our than better know onist, proclaimed patriarch of Kiev, who who Kiev, of patriarch proclaimed acceptable generally the is This

cause of being a distinguished can- distinguished a being of cause case of Filaret Denysenko, the self the Denysenko, Filaret of case -

been accepted by all, as You, be- You, as all, by accepted been Still incomparably worse is the the is worse incomparably Still exist. not does Church

customs” of relations which had had which relations of customs” autocephalous new a or Church

on of antiquity existed, of “ancient “ancient of existed, antiquity of on tocephaly. autocephalous new a cerning

practice of the Church, the criteri- the Church, the of practice herself receive recognition and au- and recognition receive herself con- agreement general have we

sacred canonical tradition and and tradition canonical sacred Ukrainian schismatics, she will also also will she schismatics, Ukrainian either results, of terms in and, low

of Moscow for Kiev. Besides, in the the in Besides, Kiev. for Moscow of the granting of autocephaly to the the to autocephaly of granting the fol- consultations Churches, local

the lack of the de facto jurisdiction jurisdiction facto de the of lack the believes and trumpets, that, after after that, trumpets, and believes the all to communicated is it whom

confirm the allegation concerning concerning allegation the confirm like her elder “sister” in Skopje, Skopje, in “sister” elder her like from Church, throne first the

available historical sources do not not do sources historical available self Church of Montenegro and, and, Montenegro of Church self to forwarded is initiative the chies,

being involved? In In involved? being deprived of divine grace, calls her- calls grace, divine of deprived epar- own its of any to tocephaly the addition,

from the Great Church of Christ Christ of Church Great the from the rival assembly or “sect,” which which “sect,” or assembly rival the au- granting of initiative the takes

out any protest whatsoever, whatsoever, protest any out have in mind Dedeic , “primate” of of “primate” , Dedeic mind in have jurisdiction having Church the

cises jurisdiction over Kiev with- Kiev over jurisdiction cises Here, as you can recognize, we we recognize, can you as Here, es? clear: thus is process whole The

defrocked by their own Church- own their by defrocked

wise in the meantime who were were who meantime the in wise

who are deprived of grace, like- grace, of deprived are who

a bishop by schismatic bishops bishops schismatic by bishop a

then “who has been ordained” as as ordained” been has “who then

by Your Most Holy Church, but but Church, Holy Most Your by

for a priest who was defrocked defrocked was who priest a for

archpriesthood possible at all all at possible archpriesthood

How is the recognition of of recognition the is How tions.

also raised, and indeed key ques- key indeed and raised, also

Finally, some other questions are are questions other some Finally,

Ukraine. of Church the of fairs

would not intervene into the af- the into intervene not would

our own mediocrity that you you that mediocrity own our

the presence, consequently, also of of also consequently, presence, the mates of the Orthodox Churches in in Churches Orthodox the of mates

“concelebrated” in Kiev. According which were integrated, after her Last, of the Beginning and of the to the popular saying, “The sack dissolution, into the body of Your End of all things, of the Alpha and found its patch” (Serbian), “The Most Holy Church, and were given the Omega, to grant strength to our pot found its lid” (Greek and Serbi- to our Church by the Tomos of Mother Church in not succumbing an), “Philip found Nathanael” (in 1922. If, God forbid, such a thing to pressures and [to grant] wis- the midst of theologians). Taking were to take place, this would be a dom from above in keeping her into consideration all the things realization of the wise Greek prov- strong and forever faithful to her- mentioned above, the conclusion is erb according to which, “when one self, to her mission and service. unavoidable that Denysenko and evil occurs a myriad follows,” as The aim of this world’s and Dedeic indispensably wished to be well as an affirmation of the endur- this age’s powers that are borne by restored as a “package,” both to- ing timelessness of our Savior’s the Antichrist is the annihilation of gether, which from a nomocanoni- teaching, that it is when the un- the being and the work of the One, cal point of view would be a gro- clean spirit has been expelled “he Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic tesque absurdity. brings with him seven other spir- Church of Christ, while the aim of its, more evil than himself,” togeth- us all, who shepherd the Church For which reason, we have been er with them he enters again into and unworthily concelebrate with persuaded, that you personally the man and “dwells there” if he her only Archpriest and Chief and the Holy and Sacred Synod might find his former “house” Shepherd, Christ our Lord, is ser- around you wish to remain on the “empty, swept and put in or- vice to her theanthropic and pneu- ramparts of orthodox ecclesiology der” (Matt. 12, 43-45; cf. Luke 11, matological mission, and the safe- and age-old canonical order. 24-26). keeping of her unity, which has been entrusted to and appointed We wrote all these things to You, Certainly, none of us wishes the for us. All-Holiness, in optima fide, in the consequences set forth, since “the The Orthodox Church is to- name of the Holy Synod of the Hi- last state of that man becomes day the only institution, which erarchy of the Serbian Orthodox worse than the first” (Matt. 12, 45; saves from death and guards on all Church and in our own name per- cf. Luke 11, 26). Namely, we re- sides also the unity of all the Or- sonally, because we are concerned nounce the dreadful prospect thodox peoples, which was sealed most deeply for the unity of the that after one evil or perhaps by the blood of the martyrs and Orthodox Catholic Church after the one unclean spirit, the evil and new martyrs. Being crucified with statements of one of the hierarchs the spirit of already existing Christ, she rises each time and at of Your Most Holy Church, that the schisms, other evils and other the same time causes the world to delivery of Your Tomos concerning evil demons follow, namely, a rise together. She is the hope and autocephaly to the schismatic new schism, deeper and harder the future of humankind. “Churches” in Ukraine is im- to cure, or even schisms. For In the love of Christ embracing Your All- menent, totally contrary to the will which reason, again and again we Holiness in a brotherly manner, we remain Your brother and concelebrant in Christ indeed of the canonical Ukrainian persist in asking and entreat ear- Irinej of Peć, Belgrade and Karlovci Orthodox Church and the Russian nestly Your holiness and love: be- Orthodox Church, in the name of fore you even cut once, measure past ecclesiastical maternity as an three times! innovational canonical adaptation. Venerating the Cross and crucifix- At the same time, it is reported ion of Your Most Holy first throne that a similar delivery is planned Church, with all our souls let us also for the schismatic beseech our Crucified Resurrected “Macedonian Orthodox Church,” Lord, of the Head and Bride of the which uncanonically and illegally Church, of the Author and Accom- appropriated the eparchies of the plisher of our faith, of the Overseer ancient Archdiocese of Ochrid, of our souls, of the First and of the

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 14

15

- self [the Denisenko schismatic 18) page on (Continued

solution to these problems. If the the If problems. these to solution Church. the of life the in chaos recog- he as Ukraine, concerning

Violation of this principle leads to to leads principle this of Violation Patriarchate Ecumenical the of tive a for all us instruct would He that

Beatitude disagrees with the initia- the with disagrees Beatitude good, our for all does Who God, to canons of the Orthodox Church. Church. Orthodox the of canons

principles of dogma and the holy holy the and dogma of principles His “ : Georgia of Ilya Patriarch pray us “Let Africa: All and andria

Church should be based on the the on based be should Church Ukraine.” in schism Church the Alex- of II Theodoros Patriarch

tical life of the canonical Orthodox Orthodox canonical the of life tical against speaking Church, Russian sin.

hrh nml ta te ecclesias- the that namely Church, the with together stands Church gravest the is unity Church’s the of

position of the Polish Orthodox Orthodox Polish the of position Antiochian The “ East: the All violation the that us remind fathers

dox Church dox and Antioch of X John Patriarch holy the do vain in Not Ukraine. We express the clear clear the express We “ :

oy yo o te oih Ortho- Polish the of Synod Holy repent.” who all embrace the in Church Orthodox canonical

rected against the parishes of the the of parishes the against rected Kiev.” in regime current the by tion motherly its in receives and gives

xoe t te aset persecu- harshest the to exposed for- Church the and repent, who di- actions committing are who

martyred sister Church in Ukraine, Ukraine, in Church sister martyred those to merciful is God from. fell those terms categorical most the

serious crime.” “We condemn in in condemn “We crime.” serious suffering brotherly love, with the the with love, brotherly suffering it where to return must away fallen

it. The destruction of this unity is a a is unity this of destruction The it. - co in solidarity, full presses has which That from. left he where

called to preserve and strengthen strengthen and preserve to called ]e seby ex- Assembly T]he “[ : Church dox to turn must he then Church, the of

gift of the Holy Spirit, and we are are we and Spirit, Holy the of gift Holy Synod of the Serbian Ortho- Serbian the of Synod Holy bosom the to return to wants O.C.]

The unity of the Church is a a is Church the of unity The “ : lem headed by Metropolitan Onuphry.” Metropolitan by headed — Patriarchate” “Kiev schismatic

arac Tepio o Jerusa- of Theophilos Patriarch nizes only the legitimate Church Church legitimate the only nizes the of “patriarch” proclaimed

Patriarchate Moscow of Church Orthodox Ukrainian

THE 46TH SAN DIEGO SERBIAN FESTIVAL 2018

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † Spring THE 46TH SAN DIEGO SERBIAN FESTIVAL 2018

“There are certain schismatic health and strength to successfully Mother Church of the Ukrainian groups in Ukraine which must first bear the obedience he was given by Church, which is the Moscow Patri- repent and return to the canonical the Lord, and which he bears with archate. To it belongs the first Church. Only then can we discuss dignity.” word in this process. “What rela- the issue of providing autocephaly. Metropolitan George of Kitros, tionship does the Ecumenical “We must not be led by the political Katerini, and Platamon (Church Church have to the Philaret schism climate in questions of dogma and of Greece): “The Greek Orthodox in Ukraine? How can it be over- the canons.” Church and all other Orthodox come? We desire that our brothers Met. Rostislav of Czech Lands Churches of the world recognize who are in schism would return to and Slovakia: “A schism, caused only one canonical Church of the Church under the leadership of by man’s egotism, can be healed Ukraine—the Ukrainian Orthodox Metropolitan Onuphry—it is the only through repentance and re- Church headed by His Beatitude sole canonical Church in Ukraine, turning to the Church,” the primate Metropolitan Onuphry.” having communion with the Mos- noted. “The new autocephaly must Metr. Athanasios of Limas- cow Patriarchate, and with all ca- be the result of a consensus.” sol (Church of Cyprus): “First and nonical Orthodox Churches… We Patriarch Neofit of Bulgaria: “I foremost, this question should be pray for this.” have always had a very good rela- resolved by the Patriarch of Mos- tionship with His Beatitude Metro- cow, in whose jurisdiction the Out of the total of fourteen auto- politan Onuphry [head of the Ukrainian Church is located, cephalous Orthodox Churches, so Ukrainian Orthodox Church—MP. then—the canonical Ukrainian Or- far, eleven have expressed unequivo- —O.C.]. We know that he loves the thodox Church, and then all the Or- cal support for the UOC and Metro- Ukrainian people and humbly la- thodox Churches under the chair- politan Onufry. bors for the good of Ukraine and all manship of the Ecumenical Patriar- Orthodox Christians. We will be chate,” Met. Anathasios stated. “But praying that the Lord grant him first of all, the first word is for the

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 18

19

big thank you to Rick Quinn Quinn Rick to you thank big

wine and great fellowship. A A fellowship. great and wine

bond with some spectacular spectacular some with bond

their families can relax and and relax can families their

weekend where dancers and and dancers where weekend

guests. It really is a fun filled filled fun a is really It guests.

dancing along with the the with along dancing

job of mingling, singing, and and singing, mingling, of job

event and did an excellent excellent an did and event

night night - two the for performed

no different. The dancers dancers The different. no

Weekend and this year was was year this and Weekend

Opolo’s Harvest Festival Festival Harvest Opolo’s

October we look forward to to forward look we October

guests and visitors. Every Every visitors. and guests

and teaching “kolo” to our our to “kolo” teaching and

also working the wine bar bar wine the working also

ing. Morava dancers were were dancers Morava ing.

in the afternoon and even- and afternoon the in

San Diego Serbian Festival Festival Serbian Diego San

We performed at our own own our at performed We

exciting month for Morava. Morava. for month exciting

[email protected]

October was also a busy and and busy a also was October is happy to announce that we will will we that announce to happy is

Director, Morava Folklore Ensemble Folklore Morava Director,

In January of 2019 Morava Morava 2019 of January In

Cristina “Duki” Dukovich “Duki” Cristina

selling shaved ice. ice. shaved selling

us working at our Nordic Ice stand stand Ice Nordic our at working us lifetime. a last will that ries Topli pozdravi, Topli

all weekend where you could find find could you where weekend all lore group and create more memo- more create and group lore you! of all for dancing

pated in the Vista Viking Festival Festival Viking Vista the in pated reconnect again with this fun folk- fun this with again reconnect 2019 season and and season 2019 - 2018 our of rest

hospitality. Lastly, Morava partici- Morava Lastly, hospitality. ued today. We are very excited to to excited very are We today. ued Morava looks forward to the the to forward looks Morava

and enjoyed the great food and and food great the enjoyed and and those friendships have contin- have friendships those and

application.

ing at Sv. Petka’s Serbian Festival Festival Serbian Petka’s Sv. at ing 2017. The dancers quickly bonded bonded quickly dancers The 2017.

va, please contact me for a member member a for me contact please va,

we also had the honor of perform- of honor the had also we Summer Folkfest in in Folkfest Summer 30 our for

th

know is interested in joining Mora- joining in interested is know

you all in early 2019! In September September In 2019! early in all you remember that we hosted “Rastko” “Rastko” hosted we that remember

kids to adults. If you or anyone you you anyone or you If adults. to kids

from Sweden. Some of you might might you of Some Sweden. from for ready it have to hope We life.

new dancers ranging from young young from ranging dancers new

United Kingdom and also a group group a also and Kingdom United new it bringing and Srbija, Stara

We are always looking for for looking always are We

alongside other groups from the the from groups other alongside dance, Morava classic a reviving

2019. 22, June Saturday dancing be will We November. of are We season. the for dances new

Summer Folkfest will be be will Folkfest Summer 32 va’s end the at parish Sava St the from two of first our learning started nd

Mark your calendars! Mora- calendars! your Mark “Rastko” with perform to England we and September in again up back

group will be traveling to London, London, to traveling be will group started season The up! stepped ally

Serbia. southeast

Fall Morava isn’t done yet! The The yet! done isn’t Morava Fall re- have dancers the all and group

raphy from the region of Pirot in in Pirot of region the from raphy

Though it has been a busy busy a been has it Though the for back months few busy

ing us a new and original choreog- original and new a us ing

son with a BANG! It has been a a been has It BANG! a with son

donov from Bulgaria will be teach- be will Bulgaria from donov support! continued their for

Morava has started its sea- its started has Morava

weekend Kolo camp. Professor An- Professor camp. Kolo weekend and them for perform to year every

have a guest choreographer for a a for choreographer guest a have us inviting for Vineyards Opolo and Supporters, and Friends Dear

Dukovich Cristina by NEWS MORAVA

ifty-two years ago, a young man came nogaja Ljeta to proto Bozidar and pro- F from Cevo (cetinje), Crna Gora to Wind- M tinica Bozana Draskovic! May God al- sor, Ontario, Canada to earn a little money and ways grant them good health, love, peace, and joy return home to pursue his dream of being or- in their family and friends! dained a priest. What he did not expect was to meet the love of his life at Gracanica Church while singing in choir. From there, that love story iveli! began, and on August 4th of this year, these love- Z birds celebrated their golden anniversary.

SPONSORS OF THE SAN DIEGO SERBIAN FESTIVAL—2018

Jovanovic Mira Vrcelj Bojan Our parish bookstore now has a Milanovich Jennifer Obradovic Uros special items for sale - ARONIA TREASURE for $ 40.00 per bottle. Plavsic Milan Males Dejan 100% Cold Pressed Siberian Aronia Berry Juice Strong Natural Antioxi- Petrovic Djordje Vuletic Dragan dant. Milasinovic Zeljko Terra Power Solutions Popovic Mirjana No added sugar, additives or preservatives Rutherford Kathleen Petric Alex Hadzibabic Aleksandar Naturally gluten and lactose- free Dukovich Mitchell Angius Barbara Aleksic Aleksandra Powerful antioxidant capaci- ty: 20,600+ ORAC6 μmol GigaKom Timona’s LLC Schrandt Jeff Nicholas units per serving size TechnoDesign Masic Milenko Savchuk Nikolai & Olga High level of polyphenols and high concentration of a Mandrapa Bozidar Draskovic Dragan Barova Anna certain anthocyanin Buying it at the church you save Kezic Vladimir Kazanegra Radmila Radovic Milorad money on shipping and handling Nikolic Gordana Mijatovic Panto Klacar Neven and you support your parish.

Ruzic Stevan Elez Sladjana Radomirovic Vladimir Contact our office for more information 619-276-5827.

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 20

21

gether every step of the way. I had a a had I way. the of step every gether our purchase could we so ously Milicevic Melanie

lo Sisters. They also donated gener- donated also They Sisters. lo helping me put this classroom to- classroom this put me helping My sincerest gratitude, sincerest My

for Lisa Protinica and Bratso ther Ko- our from help came Next

Protinica! life. my in gift a is truly teacher Fa- thank to want I Lastly,

Goca! and Father you Thank classroom. own beautiful ways. Being their their Being ways. beautiful own

God. Our kids are all perfect in their their in perfect all are kids Our God. Hvala, home. are they like feeling every for essential are items These

new way which brings me closer to to closer me brings which way new and comfortable getting them seeing space. our for board bulletin large

dents and seeing things again in a a in again things seeing and dents fun so been It’s Sunday! every chairs a and boards white the all chased

learning side by side with my stu- my with side by side learning these enjoying are kids Our room. pur- We both! you Thank Velimir.

teach, I am a child again, again, child a am I teach, Father Reverend Very

Orthodox Christian. When I I When Christian. Orthodox our and her of behalf on

and what it means to be an an be to means it what and donation generous very a en

old to learn about our faith faith our about learn to old giv- was and Petakovic binka

me that you are never too too never are you that me Lju- Protinica by proached

for them. And that reminds reminds that And them. for ap- was I First more?”

can I give? Do you need need you Do give? I can but I never stop searching searching stop never I but

ways have the right answers answers right the have ways What need? you do “What

me personally and said, said, and personally me way I know how. I don’t al- don’t I how. know I way

stepped forward, came to to came forward, stepped and then answer in the best best the in answer then and

special individuals who who individuals special have to think about, reflect reflect about, think to have

I also want to thank a few few a thank to want also I when I am asked questions I I questions asked am I when

reminded of this weekly weekly this of reminded

We won’t let you down. you let won’t We a lifelong experience. I am am I experience. lifelong a

us and in our young families. families. young our in and us learning about Orthodoxy is is Orthodoxy about learning

Thank you for investing in in investing for you Thank all in and remember that that remember and in all

anyways for putting us first. first. us putting for anyways please look around, take it it take around, look please

ing and care but thank you you thank but care and ing When you are in our room, room, our in are you When

church that require renovat- require that church

are many areas of the the of areas many are you. with Liturgy

tion project. We know there there know We project. tion sharing a part of The Divine Divine The of part a sharing

begin and finish this renova- this finish and begin theologians who will be be will who theologians

Church Board for electing to to electing for Board Church hall and learn from our little little our from learn and hall

First, we want to thank our our thank to want we First, Liturgy, please join us in the the in us join please Liturgy,

vember 18, 2018. After the the After 2018. 18, vember

which will take place No- place take will which joy!

Divine Liturgy Presentations Presentations Liturgy Divine a been It’s it. enjoyed I’ve

We are excited about our our about excited are We much how you tell can’t I

and months past these days

support. and trust your for grateful our completed which chair bag bean many there in been I’ve ronment.

shared hope became a reality. I am am I reality. a became hope shared last our donated Nikolic Goca Also, envi- learning true a become room

we all worked together and our our and together worked all we beautiful this watching pleasure

many texts over many months but but months many over texts many Sisters! Kolo you, Thank ronment. my been It’s Room! School day

and Protinica for my bossiness! Too Too bossiness! my for Protinica and envi- classroom our in difference big Sun- new brand a have We months!

made it happen. Forgive me, Father Father me, Forgive happen. it made a made have touches small These few amazing and productive a What

happen and they supported me and and me supported they and happen enjoy. and on sit to kids our of all

vision for what I had hoped would would hoped had I what for vision for rug special a and chairs bag bean Families! George St. Hello

MESSAGE FROM SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS SCHOOL SUNDAY FROM MESSAGE

PARISH NEWS AND EVENTS

Son, Ivan, was born to Boris and Melissa Ilic on August 10th, 2018. Grandparents are Petar and Rosa Ilic and Rich- ard Garrick and Sharon Darlene Barron. God grant you many years!

On Monday, Nov. 12, 2018, Fr. Bratso blessed the business space and opening of the fashion atelier Amerikanka in Nation- On Sunday, Oct. 22, 2018, Fr. Bratso blessed a bike and a new al City (1419 E 8th business venture of Nikola Bulajic and his business partner Street, National City, CA 91950). Peng Shi. The business is providing scenic tours of San Diego Congratulations to on motorcycle with side car; it is called: Pegasus Sidecar Sladana Melos - own- Tours, pegasussidecartours.com, 858-531-0839; 586-806- er and God's blessing 9899. with this new business In this picture: Fr. Bratso, Nikola Bulajic and his wife Jacquel- venture! ine and Peng Shi. CEVAP CHALLENGE Medicare Insurance WINNERS ARE toll free 1-888-251-5188 [email protected] Zoran Vladisavljevic

Nesa Rajkovic George Skaljac, Advisor Medicare Supplements ______CA License 0L95718 Representing Most Major Plans CONGRATULATIONS!

Other participants: Andrew Marin, Chairman of the Ćevap Challenge with Dorde, Nikola, Sava, Pavel and Father Bratso.

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 22

23

about it and asked them henceforth to to henceforth them asked and it about Sixth the 3, Canon Council Ecumenical

is severely condemned by the canons canons the by condemned severely is

the hierarchy of our Ecumenical See See Ecumenical our of hierarchy the First the 18:7; (Mt. life private and

tamount to deviation into schism and and schism into deviation to tamount

about this decision, we have informed informed have we decision, this about behavior his by faithful the of munity

communicated from the Church is tan- is Church the from communicated

stated that ‘having received the notice notice the received ‘having that stated com- the to temptation bringing 27;

the more so with those who are ex- are who those with so more the

His Holiness Patriarch Alexy II it is is it II Alexy Patriarch Holiness His Canon Apostolic 8; - 7 1: (Tit. blackmail

those who deviated into schism and and schism into deviated who those

tholomew’s letter of April 7, 1997, to to 1997, 7, April of letter tholomew’s and diktat jurisdiction, his under

Entering into communion with with communion into Entering

In His Holiness Patriarch Bar- Patriarch Holiness His In clergy the to attitude arrogant and

issue. the of discussion Orthodox - pan

decision on the above’. the on decision ‘Cruel accusations: following the to

their primates and hierarchs to hold a a hold to hierarchs and primates their

this matter, synodically accepts the the accepts synodically matter, this according ministry of ranks all of him

as sister Local Orthodox Churches, Churches, Orthodox Local sister as

of your Most Holy Russian Church in in Church Russian Holy Most your of depriving Denisenko Philaret deposed

the Russian Orthodox Church as well well as Church Orthodox Russian the

ing the full and exclusive competence competence exclusive and full the ing and Kharkov of Council the of decision

Orthodox Church and the plenitude of of plenitude the and Church Orthodox

Holy Great Church of Christ, recogniz- Christ, of Church Great Holy the confirmed 1992, 11, June of lution

ignoring the appeals of the Ukrainian Ukrainian the of appeals the ignoring

Metropolitan Philaret of Kiev, ‘Our ‘Our Kiev, of Philaret Metropolitan Reso- its by Church, Orthodox Russian

Church of Constantinople unilaterally, unilaterally, Constantinople of Church

Russia wrote about the deposition of of deposition the about wrote Russia the of Council Bishops’ The

the Synod were adopted by the the by adopted were Synod the

triarch Alexy II of Moscow and All All and Moscow of II Alexy triarch suspended. and Kiev of see the from

These unlawful decisions of of decisions unlawful These

reply to a letter from His Holiness Pa- Holiness His from letter a to reply removed was Church, Orthodox sian

part. its as

tholomew of Constantinople in his his in Constantinople of tholomew Rus- the of Council Bishops’ previous

lis of Kiev to the Moscow Patriarchate Patriarchate Moscow the to Kiev of lis

26, 1992, His Holiness Patriarch Bar- Patriarch Holiness His 1992, 26, the during Gospel the and cross the

nople on the transfer of the Metropo- the of transfer the on nople

stantinople. In particular, on August August on particular, In stantinople. at oath on gave he promises the fulfil

tent of the Patriarchate of Constanti- of Patriarchate the of tent

Churches including the Church of Con- of Church the including Churches to failure his for (Denisenko), Philaret

communion’; ‘recalling the 1686 pa- 1686 the ‘recalling communion’;

nized by all the Local Orthodox Orthodox Local the all by nized Metropolitan Kharkov, in 1992,

‘returning their faithful to church church to faithful their ‘returning

These decisions were recog- were decisions These 27, May on place took which Church,

schism and their followers and and followers their and schism

dox Church, he was anathematized. was he Church, dox Orthodox Ukrainian the of Council

priest’ the leaders of the Ukrainian Ukrainian the of leaders the priest’

Bishops’ Council of the Russian Ortho- Russian the of Council Bishops’ Bishops’ the of decision the By

‘restoring in the rank of bishop or or bishop of rank the in ‘restoring

Churches. By the decision of the 1997 1997 the of decision the By Churches. doubt. beyond is which of lidity

archate of Constantinople in Kiev; Kiev; in Constantinople of archate

matic activity, also within other Local Local other within also activity, matic va- the Church, Orthodox Russian the

opening a ‘stauropegion’ of the Patri- the of ‘stauropegion’ a opening

his deposition continued his schis- his continued deposition his of Councils Bishops’ of decisions sive

autocephaly to the Ukrainian Church; Church; Ukrainian the to autocephaly

repentance, Philaret Denisenko after after Denisenko Philaret repentance, succes- of number a ignores Church

confirming the intention ‘to grant grant ‘to intention the confirming ple:

In spite of repeated calls to to calls repeated of spite In the from excommunicated Denisenko

of the Patriarchate of Constantino- of Patriarchate the of

invalid. as recognized Philaret Metropolitan former munion

following decisions of the Holy Synod Synod Holy the of decisions following

the suspensions imposed by him were were him by imposed suspensions the com- to admit and status canonical the

lished on October 11, 2018, about the the about 2018, 11, October on lished

suspension since May 27, 1992, and and 1992, 27, May since suspension restore’ ‘to Constantinople of chate

Patriarchate of Constantinople pub- Constantinople of Patriarchate

ministered by Philaret in the state of of state the in Philaret by ministered Patriar- the of decision The

Church has taken the report of the the of report the taken has Church

cil Canon 15). All the ordinations ad- ordinations the All 15). Canon cil 11). 10, Canons Apostolic 2;

Synod of the Russian Orthodox Orthodox Russian the of Synod

a schism in the Church (Double Coun- (Double Church the in schism a Canon Antioch of (Council Church’ the

With profound pain the Holy Holy the pain profound With

pension (Apostolic Canon 28); causing causing 28); Canon (Apostolic pension of order the on confusion brings who

cluding ordinations in the state of sus- of state the in ordinations cluding one as excommunicated be also him

Church

Canon 6); exercising divine offices in- offices divine exercising 6); Canon let persons, excommunicated with

nonical territory of the Russian Russian the of territory nonical

Council (Second Ecumenical Council Council Ecumenical (Second Council communicating

chate of Constantinople on the ca- the on Constantinople of chate

and blasphemy against a Bishops’ Bishops’ a against blasphemy and found be shall Canon the in one any

ing the encroachment of the Patriar- the of encroachment the ing

(Apostolic Canon 25); public slander slander public 25); Canon (Apostolic or deacons, or presbyters, bishops, the Russian Orthodox Church concern- Church Orthodox Russian

Ecumenical Council Canon 5); perjury perjury 5); Canon Council Ecumenical of one any ‘If Church: Holy the of Statement by the Holy Synod of the the of Synod Holy the by Statement

CHURCH ORTHODOX RUSSIAN THE OF SYNOD HOLY THE OF STATEMENT

have no church communion with the Canon 116 (118) of the Council of arch of Constantinople the right of these persons’. Carthage: ‘He who, having been ex- ‘the first without equals’ (primus sine Today, after more than two communicated… shall go stealthily to paribus) with a universal jurisdiction. decades, the Patriarchate of Constan- overseas countries to be accepted ‘This Patriarchate of Constantinople’s tinople has changed its position for into communion, shall be expelled vision of its own rights and powers political reasons. from the clergy’. The same is stated in comes in an insurmountable contra- In its decision to justify the the canonical letter of the Council to diction with the ages-long canonical leaders of the schism and ‘legalize’ Pope Celestine: ‘Those who were ex- tradition on which the life of the Rus- their hierarchy, the Holy Synod of the communicated in their diocese shall sian Orthodox Church and other Local Church of Constantinople refers to not be taken into communion by your Churches is built’, warned the 2008 non-existent ‘canonical privileges of Holiness… Whatever affairs may Bishops’ Council of the Russian Or- the Patriarch of Constantinople to arise, they should be terminated in thodox Church in its resolution ‘On accept appeals of hierarchs and cler- their place’. the Unity of the Church’. In the same gy from all the autocephalous Church- St. Nicodemus of the Hagiorite resolution, the Council called the es’. These claims in the form given to in his Pedalion, an authoritative Church of Constantinople ‘to show them today by the Patriarch of Con- source on the canon law of the discretion till a common Orthodox stantinople have never been support- Church of Constantinople, interprets consideration of the enumerated in- ed by the plenitude of the Orthodox Canon I of the Fourth Ecumenical novations and refrain from steps Church, as they have no grounds in Council rejecting the false opinion on which can undermine the Orthodox sacred canons and bluntly contradict the right of Constantinople to consid- unity. It is especially true for the at- in particular Canon 15 of the Council er appeals from other Churches: ‘The tempts to review the canonical of Antioch: ‘If any Bishop… should be Primate of Constantinople has no boundaries of Local Orthodox tried by all the Bishops in the prov- right to act in dioceses and provinces Churches’. ince, and all of them have pronounced of other Patriarchs, and this canon The 1686 Act confirming the one decision against him in complete does not give him a right to accept Metropolis of Kiev as part of the Mos- agreement with each other, let him no appeals on any affair in the Universal cow Patriarchate and signed by His more be tried again by others, but let Church…’ Enumerating quite a num- Holiness Patriarch Dionysius IV of the concordant verdict of the bishops ber of arguments for this interpreta- Constantinople and the Holy Synod of of the province stand on record’. tion and referring to the practice of the Church of Constantinople is not to These claims are also refuted by the the decisions of Ecumenical Councils. be reviewed. The decision to ‘repeal’ practice of decision of the Holy Ecu- St. Nicodemus comes to this conclu- it is canonically negligible. Otherwise menical and Local Councils and inter- sion: ‘At the present time… the Pri- it would be possible to annul any doc- pretations of authoritative canonists mate of Constantinople is the first, ument defining the canonical territo- of the Byzantine and modern times. only and last judge for the metropoli- ry and status of a Local Church, re- Thus, John Zonaras writes, tans subordinate to him – but not for gardless of its antiquity, authorita- ‘The Patriarch [of Constantinople] is those who are subordinate to other tiveness and common ecclesial recog- recognized as judge not over all the Patriarchs. For, as we would say, the nition. metropolitans but only those who are last and general judge for all Patri- The 1686 Synodal Deed and subordinate to him. For neither met- archs is the Ecumenical Council and other documents that accompany ropolitans of Syria, nor those of Pales- none else’. It follows from the above states nothing about either a tempo- tine or Phoenicia or Egypt are sum- that the Synod of the Church of Con- rary nature of the transfer of the Me- moned to his judgment against their stantinople has no canonical rights to tropolis of Kiev to the jurisdiction of will, but those of Syria are to be cancel court rulings made by the the Moscow Patriarchate or that it judged by the Patriarch of Antioch, Bishops’ Council of the Russian Or- may be cancelled. The attempt of hi- those of Palestine by that of Jerusa- thodox Church. erarchs of the Patriarchate of Con- lem, while the Egyptian ones are One’s appropriation of pow- stantinople for political and self- judged by that of Alexandria who or- ers to reverse court judgments and seeking reasons to review this resolu- dains them and to whom they are other decisions of other Local Ortho- tion now, over three hundred years subordinate’. dox Churches is only one of the mani- after it was adopted, runs contrary to The impossibility of receiving festations of a new false teaching pro- the spirit of the Orthodox Church’s into communion a person condemned claimed today by the Church of Con- canons that do not allow of a possibil- in another Local Church is stated in stantinople and ascribing to the Patri- ity for reviewing established church

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 24

25

of consent and knowledge the without today, contrary to the pressure of ex- of pressure the to contrary today,

Kiev of 1686, the return of which as as which of return the 1686, of Kiev

authorities, its ‘stauropegion’ in Kiev Kiev in ‘stauropegion’ its authorities, And Constantinople. of Patriarchate

does not notice that the Metropolis of of Metropolis the that notice not does

flock of the Russian Church, not the the not Church, Russian the of flock lish, in agreement with the secular secular the with agreement in lish,

he Patriarchate of Constantinople Constantinople of Patriarchate he

triarchate of Constantinople to estab- to Constantinople of triarchate the are Ukraine in Orthodox the that

the development of church life. As if if As life. church of development the

also falls upon the decision of the Pa- the of decision the upon falls also centuries three over for doubted has

throughout the successive history of of history successive the throughout

Canon 8). The judgment of this canon canon this of judgment The 8). Canon nobody 1686, in unification Church’s

existent’ existent’ - non were it ‘like it see

(Third Ecumenical Council Council Ecumenical (Third Blood’ Russian the After whole. single a as

turies? It would mean an attempt to to attempt an mean would It turies?

men, hath given us by his own own his by us given hath men, itself of aware invariably was stances,

sion that has been valid for three cen- three for valid been has that sion

Jesus Christ, the Deliverer of all all of Deliverer the Christ, Jesus circum- political changing the all for

And how is it possible to cancel a deci- a cancel to possible it is how And

by little, the liberty which Our Lord Lord Our which liberty the little, by which, Church, Russian the of history

we lose, without knowing it, little little it, knowing without lose, we long - centuries the in division forced governance’. and

under pretext of sacred office; or or office; sacred of pretext under of period years’ hundred two the doubtedly were under his jurisdiction jurisdiction his under were doubtedly

ties of worldly honor be brought in in brought be honor worldly of ties to limit a put Action 1686 The especially if for thirty years they un- they years thirty for if especially

thers be transgressed; or the vani- the or transgressed; be thers it. to longed power of bishops who manage them, them, manage who bishops of power

give it up; lest the Canons of the Fa- the of Canons the lest up; it give be- never has what hijack to tempt cese… shall be invariably under the the under invariably be shall cese…

subjected [a Province], he shall shall he Province], [a subjected at- an is Constantinople of archate church parishes: ‘Parishes in each dio- each in ‘Parishes parishes: church

anyone has violently taken and and taken violently has anyone Patri- the of action present The work.

the belonging of even particular particular even of belonging the

which has not heretofore… But if if But heretofore… not has which pastoral and missionary long - ages

ciliar consideration of disputes over over disputes of consideration ciliar

assume control of any province province any of control assume its of fruit a being Church, Russian

thirty years’ term for a possible con- possible a for term years’ thirty

of the God beloved Bishops shall shall Bishops beloved God the of autocephalous the of part as already

Ecumenical Council establishes the the establishes Council Ecumenical

provinces everywhere, so that none none that so everywhere, provinces developed and founded was country,

silent’. And Canon 17 of the Fourth Fourth the of 17 Canon And silent’.

served in the other dioceses and and dioceses other the in served the of south and east the in especially

who should have claimed it but kept kept but it claimed have should who

‘The same rule shall be ob- be shall rule same ‘The reads: however, Church Orthodox Ukrainian

was a bishop during these three years years three these during bishop a was

church possessions. The church canon canon church The possessions. church the of dioceses the of part larger

not be claimed from him, if also there there also if him, from claimed be not

encroachment on somebody else’s else’s somebody on encroachment The it. to adjacent areas several and

demanded it from him, then it shall shall it then him, from it demanded

canonical canonical - anti an is consent her out Kiev of city the such as includes days

risdiction for three years, and nobody nobody and years, three for risdiction the Ukrainian Orthodox Church with- Church Orthodox Ukrainian the our of Kiev of Metropolis The latter.

to catholic unity and had it in his ju- his in it had and unity catholic to Constantinople to decide the fate of of fate the decide to Constantinople the of part smaller a only embrace to

reads, ‘If anyone… brought some place place some brought anyone… ‘If reads, her.The attempt of the Patriarchate of of Patriarchate the of attempt her.The used and Church Orthodox Ukrainian

129 (133) of the Council of Carthage Carthage of Council the of (133) 129 Church of all Rus and faithfulness to to faithfulness and Rus all of Church the of boundaries today’s from

lenged for a long time. Thus, Canon Canon Thus, time. long a for lenged million flock cherishes the unity of the the of unity the cherishes flock million different essentially were that ries

boundaries that have not been chal- been not have that boundaries church forces, this multi- this forces, church - anti ternal bounda- had today, declared is part its

the canonical supreme authority of the clergy of the Church of Constantinople Churches to a proper evaluation of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Hypocrit- and for the laity to participate in sac- above-mentioned anti-canonical ac- ically justifying it by a desire to re- raments administered in its churches. tions of the Patriarchate of Constanti- store the unity of Ukrainian Ortho- The move of hierarchy or cler- nople and to a joint search for a way doxy, the Patriarchate of Constantino- gy from the canonical Church to the out of the grave crisis tearing apart ple, by its senseless and politically mo- schismatics or entering in the Eucha- the body of the One Holy, Catholic and tivated decisions, brings in an even ristic communion with the latter is a Apostolic Church. larger division and aggravates the suf- canonical crime involving appropriate We express our all-round sup- fering of the canonical Orthodox suspensions. port for His Beatitude Onufriy, Metro- Church of Ukraine. With grief we evoke the politan of Kiev and All Ukraine and for To admit into communion prophecy of our Lord Jesus Christ the plenitude of the Ukrainian Ortho- schismatics and a person anathema- about the time of temptation and spe- dox Church at a time so hard for her. tized in other Local Church with all the cial suffering of Christians: Because of We pray for the strengthening of her ‘bishops’ and ‘clergy’ consecrated by the increase of wickedness, the love of faithful standing in a courageous vigil him, the encroachment on somebody most will grow cold (Mt. 24:12). In a for the truth and unity of the canonical else’s canonical regions, the attempt to situation of the deep undermining of Church in Ukraine. abandon its own historical decisions inter-Orthodox relations and full dis- We ask the archpastors, and commitments – all this leads the regard for ages-long norms of church clergy, monastics and laity of the Patriarchate of Constantinople beyond canonical law, the Holy Synod of the whole Russian Orthodox Church to the canonical space and, to our great Russian Orthodox Church believes it enhance their prayers for our grief, makes it impossible for us to her duty to come out in defense of the brothers and sisters of the same continue the Eucharistic community fundamental traditions of Orthodoxy, faith in Ukraine. May the prayerful with its hierarch, clergy and laity. in defense of the Holy Tradition of the veil of the Most Holy Heavenly Queen, From now on until the Patriarchate of Church substituted by new and the honorable fathers of the Kiev Constantinople’s rejection of its anti- strange teachings on the universal Caves, St. Job of Pochaev, new martyrs canonical decisions, it is impossible power of the first among the Primates. and confessors and all the saints of the for all the clergy of the Russian Ortho- We call upon the Primates and Russian Church be over all of us. dox Church to concelebrate with the Holy Synods of Local Orthodox © Moscow Patriarchate STOLE REPORT FOR JANUARY 2018 TO NOVEMBER 2018

The Stole fees at St. George parish are We congratulate and welcome the Funerals (keep in mind that they do not include following into the Holy Orthodox “Grant eternal rest in the blessed falling the established practice of giving an Faith: asleep O Lord, to Your departed serv- honorarium to our clergy): Liam Tao ants, and make their memory to be Baptism – suggested donation to Gayle Anne Kirovski eternal!” church; this includes Stewards and Luke Vincent Kirovski Awaiting the Resurrection non-stewards (non-stewards are en- Josephine Jelena Lynn Bozic couraged to become stewards of our Novak Klacar † Zora Ristic Mikler parish as long as they reside within Avery Adeline Koeph † John Jovan Pavlovich the geographical borders of our par- Mila Alcarion Markovic † Sam Rafalovich ish). Lola Kristina Gabrielle Vladisavljevic Wedding - $500.00 (stewards); Marriages Zoran Vladisavljevic $1,000.00 (non-stewards) We congratulate the following couples who Theodore Maxim Bacinski were united in Holy Matrimony at our cher- Funeral - $300.00 (stewards); $600.00 Lucia Vukadinovic ished St. George Church. (non-stewards) Julia Kaylin Hughes Nenad Kljajic and Jelena Peric Choir fee for wedding is: $300.00 Aron Tadesse and Ghenet Ghebreyo- Christimated – Conversions Baptism & Chrismation nas Ghebre “As many as have been baptized into Aron Tadesse Michael Anthony Boland and Natalja Christ, have put on Christ! Alleluia!” Ghenet Ghebreyonas Marie Fulton

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 26

27

working together with faith in God God in faith with together working

Board President and Members and President Board

lasinovic, stewardship chairman chairman stewardship lasinovic,

year of our Lord 2019. Remember, Remember, 2019. Lord our of year

Kate Thickstun, Parish Council/Church Council/Church Parish Thickstun, Kate

Paul Germain, Zeljko Jack Mi- Jack Zeljko Germain, Paul

spiritual journey in the upcoming upcoming the in journey spiritual

Zeljko Milasinovic, Stewardship Chairman Stewardship Milasinovic, Zeljko

priest, Fr. Bratso Krsic, Deacon Deacon Krsic, Bratso Fr. priest,

prayerfully as we embark on a a on embark we as prayerfully

Deacon Paul Germain Paul Deacon

age you to contact your parish parish your contact to you age

made willingly, lovingly and and lovingly willingly, made

Fr. Bratso Krsic, Parish Priest Parish Krsic, Bratso Fr.

garding Stewardship, we encour- we Stewardship, garding

cherished St. George Church be be Church George St. cherished preciation,

Should you have any questions re- questions any have you Should

May your commitment to our our to commitment your May Yours in Christ and with kind ap- kind with and Christ in Yours

Talents.

gifts. years. God grant you many years! many you grant God years.

Stewardship through Time and and Time through Stewardship

blesses us daily with His Divine Divine His with daily us blesses ardship Commitment in previous previous in Commitment ardship

who commit to their Orthodox Orthodox their to commit who

appreciation to our Lord who who Lord our to appreciation rishioners who made their Stew- their made who rishioners

ating a database of all volunteers volunteers all of database a ating

Treasures is just a small sign of of sign small a just is Treasures wholeheartedly thank all our pa- our all thank wholeheartedly

Additionally, it will assist us in cre- in us assist will it Additionally,

commitment of Time, Talents and and Talents Time, of commitment We also take this opportunity to to opportunity this take also We

Christ and His Holy Church. Our Our Church. Holy His and Christ

effectively. and easily more

Church. our of needs

our continual commitment to Jesus Jesus to commitment continual our

help us create our budget for 2019 2019 for budget our create us help

to discuss various Stewardship Stewardship various discuss to

tion we need to be reminded of of reminded be to need we tion

. This will will This . year every Cards ment

for a personal visit with Fr. Bratso Bratso Fr. with visit personal a for

As faithful Stewards of God’s crea- God’s of Stewards faithful As

plete our Stewardship Commit- Stewardship our plete

blessing make a great opportunity opportunity great a make blessing

com- we that important very is It

Lord! the in Greetings cil/Church Board. Upcoming home home Upcoming Board. cil/Church

or any member of the Parish Coun- Parish the of member any or things! great accomplish can we Stewards, Fellow Dear

2019 FOR STEWARD GEORGE SAINT A BECOME

FROM THE CHURCH BOARD PRESIDENT

Dear Fellow Parishioners, for improvement to make next year’s festival even more successful. Help us as we start planning next Here we are on the threshold of what I think year’s festival, which will take place October 12, is the most joyous season of the year. It begins with 2019. Thanksgiving – the holiday for everyone. We gather Meanwhile, please volunteer to help with with family and friends to share a meal, fellowship, Badnje Vec e and Boz ic , January 6 and 7. Plan to at- and give thanks for the blessings in our lives. Feeding tend our Annual Assembly February 10. (Volunteer others is truly an act of love. to run for a position on our parish council!) And Thanksgiving is an appropriate prelude to the PLAY GOLF!!! Our parish is hosting the Serbian Na- Christmas season to follow. Lights and holiday deco- tional Federation’s Mid-Winter Golf Tournament rations are appearing on homes and businesses and February 20 - 23. Golfers will pour in from around soon kids will be out of school for winter vacation. It the country for the chance to play at stunningly is a wonderful time to make volunteer work a family beautiful Torrey Pines Golf Course. We need your project and to share our blessings with those less help to host, feed, and entertain them all. Please con- fortunate, both in our church and the broader com- tact Vladan Trifunovic or the parish office to volun- munity. Give of your time, your treasure, and your teer. talents. Bless you and thank you all. I hope every one of you participated in our San Diego Serbian Festival. Thank you to all who did. Yours in Christ, Now is the time to offer your ideas and suggestions Kate Thickstun

2019 PILGRIMAGE TO SERBIA MAY 18 — 31, 2019

For more information contact Fr. Bratso Krsic at 619-316-2362 or call SELECT INTERNATIONAL TOURS 800-842-4842. Minimum 10 participants for all pilgrimages.

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 28

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Jovanovic, Toma and Vesna and Toma Jovanovic, Becky Valliu, Protinica and Velimir Proto Petakovich,

Petakovich, Deyan and Natasa and Deyan Petakovich, Slavica Jovanovic, Elaine and Branislav Urosevic,

Jovanovic, Slavko and Tanja and Slavko Jovanovic, Dobrila and Robert Undheim, Milan Perisic,

Koka and Ratko Jovanovic, Family and Jovana Misa, Tvrdisic, Nick Papac

Jovanovic, Misha and Marsha and Misha Jovanovic, George Tully, Sandie and Wayne Papac,

Jovanovic, Marko and Dijana and Marko Jovanovic, Family & Milica and Vladan Trifunovic, Dole and Snezana Pantovic,

Pantich, Tom and Helen and Tom Pantich, Nina and Joe Jorling, &Family Simona Robert, Dr. Trifunovic,

Family and Maja Vojkan, Topalovic, Petar Orlich, Nada and Vojin Joksimovic,

Kathryn Thickstun, Gordana and Dragan Nikolic, Vesko and Julijana Jojic,

Suliman, George George Suliman, Spomenka and Sava Nedic, Dobrinka Jojic,

Srdanovic, Mladen Srdanovic, Naden Nedel, Family and Rhonda Dennis, Jaich,

Marcia and Thomas Janich, Sandra and Robert Stojanovic, Pamela Naughton,

Sylvia and Mirko Ivanovic, Julijana and Djordje Stojadinovic, Millie Mrja,

Olga Irick, Tatyana Starr, Linda and Risto Mitrovich,

Tom Smolan, Predrag Mitrovich, Rosa and Petar Ilic,

Boris Ilic, Family and Zorana Justin, Smith, Jelena Mitrovich,

David Hyduke, Bernadette and George Skaljac, Desanka Mitrovich,

Groza, Horia and Joanna Joanna and Horia Groza, Elena Serebryakova, Family and Mira Miroslav, Milovancev,

Grijakovic, Vladimir Vladimir Grijakovic, Sophie Serdar, family and Miodrag and Vecki Miljkovic,

Vera Giles, Jelena and Nemanja Selezan, Diane and Milan Miljkovic,

Germain, Deacon Paul, Natalija &Family Natalija Paul, Deacon Germain, Dusan Selezan, Nada and Nikola Milicevic,

Fulton, Jeff and Radmila Radmila and Jeff Fulton, Miletic, John and Ana and Family and Ana and John Miletic, - Sedy Melanie and James Milicevic,

Emery, Jack and Janice Janice and Jack Emery, Valenti Natalia and Jeff Schrandt M. Mallory Miller,

Elez, Sladjana and Family and Sladjana Elez, Olga and Nikolaj Savchuk, Marija and Zeljko Milasinovich,

Dukovich Cristina and Ninkovic Sava Ninkovic and Cristina Dukovich Cynthia Sacchetti, Jennifer Milanovich,

Dukovich, Mitch and Marie Marie and Mitch Dukovich, Marian and Scot Sargeant Miroslav Miladinovic,

Ducich, Nick and Tia and Nick Ducich, Stephanie Saathoff, Radmila Miladinovic,

Bozana Marija and Stevan Ruzic, Gordon Mihailovic,

Draskovic, Proto Bozidar and Protinica Protinica and Bozidar Proto Draskovic, Kathleen Rutherford, Samuel Medigovich,

Drakulich, Persida Drakulich, Lydia and Howard Rhoads, Ann - Sally McKienzie,

Dizick, Cris & Irina & Cris Dizick, Raicevic, Vladimir and Silvana & Family Family & Silvana and Vladimir Raicevic, Svetlana McCarthy,

Dimich, Marlene Dimich, Dragoslav Radovanovic, Family and Tina Mike, Marin,

Denton, Natalie Denton, Vladimir Radomirovic, Andrew Marin,

De La Cruz, Hugo and Jadranka and Hugo Cruz, La De Vesna Dr. and Slobodan Radojevic, Maja and Predrag Markovic,

Cronemeyer, Jamie and Zorica and Jamie Cronemeyer, Family and Vera Marko, Rakic, Nada and Scott Markley,

Copic, Miro, Laura and Family and Laura Miro, Copic, Raicevic, Vladimir, Silvana and Family and Silvana Vladimir, Raicevic, Milenko Masic,

Connor, Evelyn Connor, Mika Radosavljevic, Katarina & Kenneth Mansir,

Colovic, Slobodan Colovic, Family and Vladimir Radomirovic, Milos Lukic,

John and Gloria Purlia, Petka and Ljuban - James Lukic, Family and Brigitte Caric,

Milica and Zachary Pugh, Kira and Alex Anthofer, - Lopez Ljiljana and James Caldes,

Joseph and Sheila Michael, Potkonjak, Carole and Alexander Lazovic, Lidija and Mitch Brucker,

Nada and Vojkan Popovich, Ann and Robert Kurkjian, Jelena and Aleksandar Bradic,

Dolly Popovich, Dusan and Maria Kunac, Family and Radovan Borovic,

Family and Darko Popovic, Lisa Protinica and Bratso Proto Krsic, Lepa and Milos Belcevich,

Cornelia Popa, Biljana Kovacevic, Samantha and Michael Begovich,

Dee D. Plavsic, Tordis Kostic, Stana and Stevo Basic,

Seja - Mara Plavsic, Neven Klacar, Anna Barova,

Ljubica and Milan Plavsic, Seka and Alex Kinach, Joanna Aud,

LJubinka Plavsic, Ivana and Vladimir Kezic, Family and Laurie Matthew, Aud,

Marija and Djordje Petrovic, Radmila and Rade Kasic, Denis Andolsek

Jelena Petric, Peter Kalfas, Diana Amanovic,

Aci and Shari Alex, Petric, Verica Jovanovic, Markay and Mike Allen,

Ljubinka Mira and Velimir Jovanovic, Family and Linda Alemany,

2018 — LIST STEWARSHIP GEORGE ST.

† SAINT GEORGE CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2019

JANUARY JUNE

Sunday 6 Badnje Vece/Christmas Eve Frid.- 21-23 Folkfest Sunday Monday 7 Bozic/Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Monday 24 Apostles Fast Begins Christ Monday 14 Circumcision of our Lord/St. Basil the Great Sunday 30 Vidovdan Celebration & Honoring of (New Year) Graduates

Sunday 27 St. Sava Celebration JULY

FEBRUARY Sun.-Sun. 7/7- Diocesan Summer Camp, Jackson, CA 8/3 Sunday 10 Parish Annual Assembly Thursday-Sat. 21-23 SNF Golf Tournament AUGUST Tuesd.-Thursday 26-28 Sts Mardarije and Sebastian Wednes- 14 Dormition Fast Begins Orthodox Institute (Midwest) day

Wednes- 28 Dormition Feast Day MARCH day Frid.- 31-1 Diocesan Days, St. Sava Parish in San Monday 11 Great and Holy Lent begins Sun. Gabriel, CA (No Liturgy at St. George)

Sunday 17 1st Sunday of Great Lent - Orthodoxy SEPTEMBER Sunday 24 2nd Sunday of Lent-St. Gregory Pala- mas Sunday 8 Sunday Church School Begins Frid.-Sat. 31 3rd Sunday of Lent-Veneration of the Cross Sunday 22 Kolo Slava

APRIL OCTOBER

Sunday 7 4th Sunday of Lent-St. John Clima- Saturday 12 San Diego Serbian Festival cus Thursday 17 Sts Stephen and Venerable Helena Frid.-Sat. 12 Diocesan KSS Women’s Retreat (Stiljanovic) Sunday 14 5th Sunday of Lent-St. Mary of Frid.-Sat. 18-19 Opolo Wine Harvest Festival Egypt

Saturday 20 Lazarus Saturday-Vrbica NOVEMBER Sunday 21 Palm Sunday - Cveti Saturday 2 or 9 Cevap Challenge Wednesday 24 Great and Holy Wednesday Sunday 17 Stewardship Sunday Thursday 25 Great and Holy Thursday Thursday 28 The Nativity Fast begins Friday 26 Great and Holy Friday

Saturday 27 Great and Holy Saturday DECEMBER Sunday 28 Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ – Pascha - Vaskrs Thursday 19 St. Nicholas the Wonderworker of Myra in Lycia

MAY

Sunday 5 Church Slava – Parish Patronal Deadlines for submitting articles for THE VOICE: Feast Day Celebration February 10th (1st quarter) May 10th (2nd quarter) Monday 6 St. George the Great-Martyr Ascen- August 10th (3rd quarter) November 10th (4th quarter) sion of our Lord

THE VOICE OF ST. GEORGE † SpringWinter 2018 30

Church Office Staff & Volunteers ______PARISH PRIEST V. Rev. Protopresbyter Bratislav Krsic Email: [email protected] PARISH DEACON Rev. Deacon Paul Germain CHURCH BOARD PRESIDENT Kathryn Thickstun VICE-PRESIDENTS Dorde Petrovic & Velimir Jovanovic TREASURER: Milos Belcevic SECRETARY: Jeff Nicholas Schrandt MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Vojkan Popovic, Vladimir Kezic, Dorde Petrovic, Simona Trifunovic, Kira Anthofer, P. Lisa Krsic STEWARDSHIP CO-CHAIRMEN Zeljko Milasinovic, Andrew Marin AUDITING BOARD Miro Copic,Vesna Jovanovic, Dusanka Klacar TUTORS/VESTRYMEN Milos Lukic, George Skaljac, Nebojsa Rajkovic, Miro Copic, Radovan Borovic, Constantine Chris Dizick S.S.S. St. GEORGE CHOIR Velimir Jovanovic, President Kathryn Thickstun, Director CIRCLE OF SERBIAN SISTERS Jadranka De la Cruz, Sladana Melos MORAVA FOLKLORE ENSEMBLE Cristina “Duki” Dukovich FINANCIAL SECRETARY Maja Topalovic PARISH OFFICE SECRETARY Natalia Valenti

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Today the Virgin gives birth to the Transcendent One, And the earth offers a cave to the Unapproach- able One! Angels with shepherds glorify Him! The wise men journey with a star! Since for our sake the Eternal God was born as a Little Child!

Troparion of the Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (Fourth Tone) Your birth, O Christ our God, dawned the light of knowledge upon the earth. For by Your birth those who adored stars, were taught by a star, to worship You, the Sun of Justice and to know You, Orient from on High. O Lord, glory to You.