BWC December 2018

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHEPARCHY OF PITTSBURGH

honoring eastern european martyrs

Inside

VOL. 63 NO. 13

welcome to texas

St. Basil the Great welcomes Bishop of the Chaldean Catholic Eparchy of St. Paul the Apostle Page 9

Moleben celebrated at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Page 6

Eternal memory

mckees rocks mourns lives lost in squirrel hill, pa.

DECEMBER 2018

year in review A look back at 2018 Pages 12 to 13

Report of the Synod sister barbara jean mihalchick speaks at serra club

by Kathe Kress Serra Club communications liaison

A Panachida was offered following the Nov. 3 to 4 Divine Liturgies at Holy Ghost in McKees Rocks, Pa. in memory of the eleven people who were killed Oct. 27 at Tree of Life Synagogue in Squirrel Hill, Pa. Altar servers rang bells as Father Frank Firko (left) read the names of the eleven. At the conclusion of the service, parishioners were invited to light candles in memory of the departed and randomly select a victim’s name and pray for them for the traditional 40 days. The families and friends of the victims were remembered as well as the first responders who bravely responded to the tragedy. May God bless those who remain hospitalized and grant eternal memory to those who were lost.

Openness to God’s will “come and see” weekend of discernment at byzantine seminary

by Thomas Donlin Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Albuquerque, N.M.

The first moment I entered the door of SS. Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pa. for the “Come and See” weekend of discernment, an overwhelming feeling of peace washed over me and fulfilled my heart’s desire of many years.

The weekend of Nov. 2 to 4 was a blend of both prayerful retreat and social interaction with time to set aside all earthly cares — for me, those cares

common to a junior in college — to reflect on God’s will in my life as well as to experience the daily rhythm of seminary life.

Father Robert Pipta, Seminary rector, warmly welcomed the 12 “Come and Seers” representing the Ruthenian eparchies of Phoenix, Parma, and Passaic as well as the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh.

The seminarians, who were also our mentors (Miron Kerul-Kmec Jr. was mine) for the weekend, answered all of our questions openly and humorously and made each of us a

part of their seminary family.

Almost as if by divine design, the entire atmosphere of the weekend changed after lunch on Saturday from a retreat of internal reflection to an experience of how each seminarian personally lives out his daily life of prayer, academic work, and community and how he travels along his faith journey sharing his personality and humanity. I glimpsed the reality of daily seminary life.

By Saturday afternoon I did Story continued on page 11

Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick, OSBM, discussed October’s Synod on Youth, the Faith and Vocational Discernment in Rome and shared compelling coverage found on “Crux,” a new Catholic website, at the Byzantine Catholic Serra Club’s Oct. 17 meeting.

She began by saying preparation for this Synod came with an official seal of approval. The 300 young people who met in Rome — including Byzantine Catholic Christopher Russo — joined by some 15,000 youth who took part in Facebook groups organized as part of the pre-synod process, were chosen by their bishops’ conferences and invited by the Vatican to contribute their ideas.

In Rome from Oct. 3 to 28, the Synod of 267 bishops and cardinals from around the world discussed the topic of faith, young people, and vocational discernment. Some 34 young people were called to attend the gathering, and each had the opportunity to give a brief, four-minute reflection along with the prelates who participated.

As head of our sui juris Church in America, Bishop William Skurla presented a statement.

He gathered ideas from a questionnaire the Archeparchy had posted on the web for all young people in our Metropolia.

Some would call the timing of the Synod unfortunate in that it followed on the heels of the clergy sexual abuse scandal in Pennsylvania. However, that Story continued on page 5

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DECEMBER 2018

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

Schedule of Services - Christmas 2018

UPS 081500 ISSN 07442289

Very Reverend Andrew Deskevich, Rector

Official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh Serving parish communities in central and western Pennsylvania, Louisiana, eastern Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and West Virginia

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Published monthly (12 issues) plus two seasonal special issues Byzantine Catholic Press Associates 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Tel: 412.231.4000 Fax: 412.231.1697 E-mail: bcw@archpitt.org Web site: www.archpitt.org Archbishop William C. Skurla President David Mayernik Jr. Editor

Monday, Dec. 24 — Vigil, Feast of the Nativity of Our

Lord - Christmas Eve 9 a.m.

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Royal Hours Compline with Carols Divine Liturgy

Tuesday, Dec. 25 — Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord —

Christmas Day 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy

Sister Elaine Kisinko, OSBM Copy Editor

Wednesday, Dec. 26 — Commemorating the Theotokos and Joseph

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Gregory S. Popivchak Business Manager Annual Subscription Rates US $14 Canadian $17 International $20 Periodicals Postage PAID at Pittsburgh, PA

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Thursday, Dec. 27 — Feast of St. Stephen 9 a.m.

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Cathedral of St. John the Baptist 210 Greentree Road | Munhall, Pa. 15120 | 412-461-0944 View services LIVE on the web at www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com

Postmaster: send address changes to: The Byzantine Catholic World ATTN: Donna 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for address changes to take effect.

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Catholic World is to spread the Gospel message in the rich tradition of the Byzantine Catholic Church; to encourage faithful to reflect the image of of life; to offer spiritual formation through changing times; and to celebrate community among Byzantine Catholics in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, throughout the Metropolitan Church in America, and around the world.

Archbishop William Skurla announces the following appointments effective Monday, Nov. 26, 2018: • Father William Lascelles: relieved as administrator of both SS. Peter and Paul Church, Punxsutawney, Pa. and St. Anne Church, Clymer, Pa.; and at his request, retirement from active ministry is granted.

• Father Vasyl Kadar: relieved as priest for liturgical celebrations and the spiritual needs of the people of SS. Peter and Paul, Punxsutawney, Pa.; and appointed administrator of both SS. Peter and Paul Church, Punxsutawney, Pa. and St. Jude, Ernest, Pa. • Father Wesley Mash: relieved as administrator of both SS. Peter and Paul Church, Tarentum, Pa. and St. Andrew Church, Gibsonia, Pa.; and appointed pastor of Holy Protection of Mary Church, Homer City, Pa. and administrator of St. Anne Church, Clymer, Pa.

Submissions deadline: 15th of the month prior to the month of publication.

Christ in everyday activities

by metropolitan archbishop william

Mount Macrina Manor Live Nativity Mount Macrina Manor’s Annual drive-through Live Nativity will be held 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 2 on the grounds of Mount St. Macrina, 520 W. Main St., Uniontown, Pa. The Nativity with live animals will be set up along the Friendship Circle, adjacent to the facility.

The Sisters of St. Basil the

Great, St. George Maronite Youth Organization and the Middle School Faith Formation Group from Unionown’s Roman Catholic churches will sing Christmas carols. Angels will pass out candy canes to visitors.

No charge. For information, call Mary at 724-430-1021. n

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• Father Jerome Botsko: relieved as pastor of Holy Protection of Mary Church, Homer City, Pa. and administrator of St. Jude Church, Ernest, Pa.; and appointed chaplain to the Sisters at Mt. St. Macrina, Uniontown, Pa. and pastor of St. Mary Church, Morgantown, W. Va. with residence at Mt. St. Macrina.

• Father Adam Horstman: appointed pastor of SS. Peter and Paul Church, Tarentum, Pa. and administrator of St. Andrew Church, Gibsonia, Pa. n

DECEMBER 2018

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“Parish Life from Maintenance to Discipleship” byzantine spirituality conference engages faithful

by Sister Marion Dobos, OSB Director, Office of Religious Education

The Office of Religious Education welcomed 62 participants on Nov. 10 to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. to reflect on parish life and the call to be Disciples of Jesus Christ.

Deacon John Evancho, Eparchy of Parma, gave two informative and thought-provoking presentations. His first was entitled “The Immigrant Byzantine Catholic Disciple.” With the help of a PowerPoint presentation, he gave a brief illustrated history of religious persecution in Eastern Europe from 19191945. Deacon John traced the journey taken by brave souls who fled religious persecution and economic deprivation.

Those daring and brave souls journeyed to unfamiliar territory to practice their faith and live the Gospel as Byzantine Catholic Christians. Imbued with the humility and courage of Bishops Theodore Romza, Paul Gojdich and Basil Hopko, they carried with them fortitude and determination to remain faithful to their Byzantine Catholic faith and traditions.

The determination of our ancestors to succeed guided them to discern the necessary changes needed to survive in a new and challenging environment.

Deacon John shared personal examples from his own family and mentors.

His first presentation laid a foundation for his second presentation, “Byzantine Catholic Disciples Today.”

The words, “We are deeply connected to God” set the tone for a reflection on what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Quoting several Scriptural passages and writings from the Early Church Fathers, Deacon John explained what it means to be created in the Image and Likeness of God. Because humans are special creatures of God we are able to reflect all God is by our love, compassion and generosity for others.

These qualities equip us to be “counter-culture” in a secular and materialistic world. Our call as disciples is to help others realize their dignity, not merely as someone who believes in God but as someone who professes their faith, giving witness to the way God intended the world to be.

Deacon John’s presentation on

“Byzantine Catholic Discipleship Today” can be summed up with the quote from his initial slide: “I deeply believe that the Byzantine way is still the most suitable way for modern man to come to a realization of the sheer poetry and grace in the Gospels. I believe that Western man, and especially Americans, can easily live it, and that it can add to his enrichment without intellectual capitulation…

Christianity is not an abstract doctrine divorced from reality and history. Nor is it some momentary, flickering light which shines for a brief while and then is gone. Christianity is a continual celebration of life and love between God and man lived out in concrete history… it is a mystery of life in an embrace of Love” (The Face of God, Archbishop Joseph M. Raya).

The third presentation at the conference was given by Christopher Russo, Eparchy of Passaic. He spoke about “The Challenge of Discipleship for the Future.” Having represented the Byzantine Catholic Metropolia in the United States at the Pre Synod for Youth in Rome, March 2018, Christopher shared his experiences of “Church” at home and abroad.

He shared a powerful photo of his home parish in Connecticut destroyed by fire in 2013.

The Sunday following the fire the parish community gathered outside on the property to celebrate the Divine Liturgy. Christopher spoke about how important it is for people to understand the parish is the people, not just a building or district. It is in the parish that we become engaged with the wider Church community, are nourished by the Scripture and the Sacraments. He quoted Pope Francis: “The thing the Church needs most today is the ability to heal wounds and to warm the hearts of the faithful.

It needs nearness and proximity. I see the Church as a field hospital.”

One of the most exciting pieces of information Christopher shared was to announce an upcoming conference for young Byzantine Catholic adults that will take place in New York on August 1 to 4, 2019. This conference is being planned by a group called “Theosis in Action: The Young Adult Ministry of the Eparchy of Passaic”

Deacon John Evancho, Eparchy of Parma

Christopher Russo, Eparchy of Passaic Sister Marion Dobos, OSB

Seminarians Kyprian Wojiechowski, Archeparchy of Pitsburgh; Deacon Kevin Bezner, Ukrainian Eparchy of St. Josaphat; David Vonderohe, Eparchy of Phoenix; and Christopher LoGrippo, Eparchy of Passaic. Back: Amanda Singel, assistant, Office of Religious Education.

and will include representation from all four Eparchies. The mission of this organization is to create Disciples of Jesus Christ through social media and in person events. Using modern methods of communication they will provide resources, fellowship and collaboration to help young Byzantine Catholics as they navigate through adulthood.

In addition to the two gifted speakers, Helen Kennedy, a member of the Renewal & Re-

vitalization Commission, gave an update on parish action items. Seminarians attending were introduced in a “Creative Jeopardy” activity which provided a lot of chuckles. However, no cash prizes were given!

Thank you to Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich for use of the Cathedral facilities, Amanda Singel and Lori Downey who helped with the organization of the conference and Nick Havrilla for taking photos.n Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.

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DECEMBER 2018

text messages

Back to the fourth grade

by David Mayernik Jr. Editor

“Wow, this is heavy.”

Those are the immortal words of Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) in one of my favorite movies, “Back to the Future,” after traveling back in time to 1955 from 1985 and discovering his 18-year-old mother wants to go to the “Under the Sea” dance with him instead of his future father, George McFly. As Marty proved, reconnecting with one’s past can be quite a harrowing experience.

There most likely isn’t a problem with the Earth’s gravitational pull, as Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd) hypothesizes in the movie, during these moments but sometimes it can feel that way.

I’ve never traveled back in time but I have certainly felt that “heavy” feeling many times simply by crossing paths with people I used to work or go to school with.

I had such an experience last month when I went to my polling place in Scott Township on Election Day. After waiting in line, I introduced myself to a woman behind the desk who was checking people in.

She recognized my name and told me she was my fourth grade teacher!

“Wow, thanks a lot for remembering me,” I said to her.

“I couldn’t forget you,” she replied.

I remembered her, of course.

I remember a lot about fourth grade: one of my classmates incorrectly spelling “creek” and twisting it into the Pittsburghese “Chartiers Crik” in a

“Back to the Future” is a regular on my television

written assignment and another saving magazine photos of Mork from Ork to give to me.

But my fourth grade teacher must must have had hundreds of students go through her classrooms over the years.

How could she possibly remember me?

I never would have thought I made such an impression on one of my elementary school

teachers that someone would remember me so many years later.

I suppose it goes to show you never know how much of an impact a person can make on others — either positive or negative.

You can't outrun your past.

Not even in a DeLorean at 88 mph. n

view from the little sisters of the poor

What are you giving up for Christmas?

by Sister Constance Veit, LSP Little Sisters of the Poor

As they celebrated their first Christmas in America 150 years ago, our Little Sisters in Baltimore noted that the donations received included “twelve turkeys, four ducks, sixteen chickens and so many other good things that we didn’t know what to do with it all!” They concluded, “In this country Christmas is like the feast of the poor!”

I decided to take a look at Christmas giving in 19th century America to see if this was true.

In 1843, Charles Dickens published “A Christmas Carol,” telling the story of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and his Christmas Eve conversion.

As the story opens, Scrooge is approached by two men asking for a cash donation to help the poor. He refuses, answering that there are prisons and workhouses for the destitute and he pays taxes to support them.

Scrooge’s attitude was quite prevalent in America as well as England. Our young nation was being built up through hard work and self-reliance.

Commerce and industry were taking off, and with them a new

spirit of competition, along with the uncompromising pursuit of profit. There was also a growing social divide between the rich and the poor.

Like Scrooge, many Americans believed that the “unworthy” poor — those who were judged to have caused their own misery — belonged in prison or the workhouse, where the conditions were anything but humane. The one group of destitute individuals that elicited universal sympathy was impoverished children.

People concerned about poverty were encouraged to donate to churches or charitable institutions rather than giving directly to the poor.

A Jan. 1844 article in the New York Tribune advised that if all the money wasted on unnecessary Christmas trifles was “rightly appropriated … Pauperism and its attendant miseries could be eliminated.”

An 1853 editorial in the same newspaper ran with the headline, “DO NOT GIVE TO STREET BEGGARS.” Giving directly to the poor was believed to encourage beggary.

The New York Times expressed similar sentiments. An 1854 editorial asserted that money contributed to worthy organizations “will find where the misery is.” The paper encouraged its readers to give to “those excellent institutions,

in whose hands, if you place a dollar, you do what, individually, you could not make five dollars do.”

Charitable giving was on its way to becoming a well-oiled yet impersonal machine. Large Christmas dinners for the poor at New York City’s Madison Square Garden served up to 20,000 people at a time as the wealthy looked on as spectators. Is this how charity should be administered?

Worthy institutions of all types will always play an important role in relieving the distress of the poor, but contrary to what the New York Tribune asserted, poverty will never be completely eliminated. Christ himself foretold: “The poor you will always have with you” and “Whatsoever you do to the least of my brethren, you do to me.”

In the 1860s and ’70s, the Little Sisters were a fledgling community in a foreign land, so the people who supported us were definitely taking a risk! I am especially grateful for those who gave the gift of their presence, and those who knew how to go beyond what might be considered life’s necessities in order to make the elderly feel loved.

Our archives are full of stories of such thoughtful charity. The Galt House Hotel, a Louisville institution, donated leftovers on a daily basis. On Christmas

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day in 1869 the hotel management requested that the Sisters send their begging wagon over to the hotel at noon. The Little Sisters assumed they would receive leftovers as they usually did, but the hotel employees filled the wagon with freshly made treats, which made the residents quite happy!

Thanks to the generosity of such wonderful people I can see how the Sisters could say that in this country, Christmas is the feast of the poor.

As we reflect on how best to respond to cries of the poor in our own time, I’d like to suggest that even the most destitute individual deserves a look of love and the gift of humanity.

In his encyclical on charity Pope Benedict XVI wrote that although charitable organizations might be “a political necessity,” if we look upon others from the perspective of Jesus Christ we can perceive in them an interior desire for a sign of love and concern. “Seeing with the eyes of Christ, I can give to others much more than their outward necessities; I can give them the look of love which they crave.”

Let’s try to be generous in giving this look of love this Christmas! n Sister Constance Veit is director of communications for the Little Sisters of the Poor.

DECEMBER 2018

report from the

PAGE 5

Byzantine Catholic Serra Club

Report of the Synod continued from page 1 event served to focus on the need to seek forgiveness for the Church’s failures. This further served to create an openness to meet the youth where they are rather than criticize them.

The openness evoked this response from the youth: “We want to say, especially to the hierarchy of the Church, that they should be a transparent, welcoming, honest, inviting, communicative, accessible, joyful and interactive community.”

The young people sought to encourage the Church to deepen its understanding of the role of women and to empower both lay and consecrated women in “the spirit of the Church’s love for Mary, the mother of Jesus.”

Also, the youth observed a lack of leading female role models within the Church. Young women desire to contribute intellectually and professionally to the Church, saying: “If it is difficult for young people to feel a sense of belonging and leadership in the Church, it is much more so for young women…to that end, it would be helpful for young people if the Church not only clearly stated the role of women, but also helped young people to explore and understand it more clearly.”

Speaking for the prelates, U.S. Cardinal Daniel DiNardo acknowledged the challenge of pulling together the responses and needs of the diverse group.

The youth face challenges, too, of economics, anxiety and drug and alcohol abuse.

He pointed out that the survey responses show that church leaders have work to do to walk with young people and address challenges they face, but he also said there has been some positive growth in young people’s faith, especially for those in high school and college.

Pope Francis warned the youth against being seduced by “ideological colonization” and invited young people to repeat: “I have no price, I am free…like this freedom that Jesus gives.” He was especially moved in front of the photo of a young man and his grandfather, the strongest message of the evening the Synod Fathers spent with 7,000 youth, he said, recommending that youth

Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick addresses the October meeting of the Byzantine Catholic Serra Club. Serra Club President Bill Kress is at bottom right.

cultivate the bonds with older ones, those who are their roots.

Sister Barbara Jean asked: “What should the Synod mean to Serrans?” Her answer: “Young people need an education of their hearts to recognize what is true, good and beautiful, and what will lead them to a full life, without being fooled by false idols.

“We as adults need to have the loving, trusting and reassuring attitude and approach that parents have when their young toddler learns to walk

and falls. Young people will fall, and when they make mistakes, they need loving, caring and listening adults, willing to dialogue, which can alleviate fears. As older adult Catholics, we can influence young people with our love, good works and prayers, urging them to not be afraid because Jesus will always be with them, too.”

A sister representative at the Synod said: "I beg you not to make decisions for young people; don't mold them according to your models and don't do everything for them. Believe in

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young people and help them be who God wants them to be.”

She urged adults to be trusted guides interpreting the things young people are passionate about in the light of faith. They want help knowing “if a certain something is appropriate for us or not" as a Catholic.

Sister Barbara Jean challenged Serrans and others to encounter youth where they are, to be open to dialogue with them and to draw them to Faith — by example! In all of this our goal is to assist in finding God’s path for their lives. n

parish news PAGE 6

DECEMBER 2018

st. john the baptist cathedral in munhall, pa.

Honoring Eastern European martyrs

A Moleben for the Canonization of our martyred European Bishops was celebrated Nov. 4 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. The service was well-attended by both the faithful and clergy.

Homemade pastries and refreshments were served following the ceremony. n

Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.

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DECEMBER 2018

parish news

continued

PAGE 7

st. john the baptist cathedral in munhall, pa.

‘ Tis the season Baking for Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons started last month at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich is rector.

The traditional nut, poppy seed, lekvar and apricot rolls filled the air with the sweet homemade aromas of years past. n

Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.

nativity of the mother of god in dubois, pa.

Assembly 2018 sprouts Open House

by Deacon Paul Boboige Nativity of the Mother of God, DuBois, Pa.

Nativity of the Mother of God opened our church and social hall to the public on Oct. 21 for an Open House event, which sprouted from an Assembly initiative to increase our membership and to announce the Good News of God's love to the whole community.

Part of the events were church tours, a delightful selection of foods, and drug and alcohol awareness displays by the City of DuBois Police and the Clearfield Jefferson Drug & Alcohol Commission.

Icons were colored by the visiting children. Deacon Luke Crawford of Holy Trinity in Sykesville, Pa. graciously provided the press and expertise for apple cider making with hands-on participation by our visitors and parishioners.

A professional two-minute video featuring our parish was

premiered. Anyone interested in viewing the video can watch at https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=toOEHqe7Ra4.

The event was highly publicized by parishioners on social media, church bulletins and invitations to daycare centers. It was well-received by about 60 to 80 visitors.

The target of non-church going families was not very successful but we have to remember that Our Lord took three years to form the future Church. This initiative is just the start of evangelization and will take time.

A follow-up event, a babysitting service for Christmas shoppers, will be the next initiative to proclaim that the "church on the hill" welcomes new members.

Father Vasyl Banyk is the administrator of the parish and the deacons are Dr. George Fatula and Paul Boboige. n the byzantine catholic world

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parish news

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DECEMBER 2018

st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa.

Trunk or Treat

by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.

Following the Oct. 28 Divine Liturgy, St. Gregory’s children were excited for this year’s Trunk or Treat. Over the years, Trunk or Treat has become a family-friendly event enjoyed by all parishioners. After a costume parade, our children were in the Church parking lot walking from trunk to trunk, receiving candy and treats. We continued in the Church hall playing games and enjoying fellowship. At the end of this fun event every participant received a pumpkin. n

Children’s Story Time

Honoring veterans

by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.

by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.

On Oct. 29, Children Story Time took place at our parish library. The children enjoyed

stories related to “All Hallows’ Eve.” At the end they had an opportunity to create their own Trick or Treat Basket. n

In anticipation of Veterans Day, the weekend of Nov. 3 to 4 at St. Gregory was dedicated to our veterans and military personnel.

At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, prayerful supplications were offered for all living and departed men and women who have served and continue to serve our nation under God. n

Photos by Jennifer Kehm

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DECEMBER 2018

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st. basil the great in irving, texas

Chaldean Bishop celebrates Liturgy at St. Basil

by Kirstin (Kiki) Hayden St. Basil the Great, Irving, Texas

His Excellency Mar Emanuel Shaleta, Bishop of the Chaldean Catholic Eparchy of St. Peter the Apostle, traveled from San Diego, Ca. to Irving, Texas, where he celebrated the Nov. 4 Divine Liturgy at St. Basil the Great for the local Chaldean community, officially called the St. Joseph Assyrian Chaldean Catholic Mission of Dallas/Fort Worth.

Bishop Shaleta was accompanied by Deacon Daniel Shabilla, who will soon be ordained a priest.

Father Christopher Andrews, pastor of St. Basil, eagerly showed them around the sanctuary and the hall, attending to every detail.

"They're our brothers; they are a persecuted church. It is an honor to host them. I was told that one lady had not been to her Liturgy in 40 years! What a blessing the Bishop came!”

Father Christopher said.

Hymns echoed in harmony as the congregation sang in Arabic and Assyrian. The congregation touched hands to pass the sign of peace. As Father Christopher held the chalice of the Lord's precious Blood, Bishop Shaleta dipped the Body of Christ and placed Him on the tongue of each communicant.

After the Liturgy, the celebration continued. The parish hall was filled with wonderful tastes and smells. There was savory kuba hamud, which is made with rice flour dough, stuffed with meat, and dipped in eggplant and chickpea soup; lamb; chicken; hummus; rice with dill; and stuffed grape leaves: a true feast!

Earlier that week, Faher Christopher met with Raphael and Renee Adam, members of the Chaldean community, to arrange the details.

"I'm going to have two tables for sweets," Renee Adam said, with a sly smile.

Raphael Adam is the leader of the local Chaldean community. When asked to share one message about his church, he began to detail its rich history: "It is not a new church. It used to be called the Ancient Church of the East."

He encouraged everyone to read about the long history of the Chaldean Catholic Church, beginning with its founding by St. Thomas in the first century.

Deacon Tariq Nasrallah, Father Christopher Andrews, His Excellency Bishop Mar Emanuel Shaleta, Deacon Daniel Shabilla and Deacon Brian Norrell

ABOVE: His Excellency Bishop Mar Emanuel Shaleta (left) cuts a celebratory cake in the parish hall following the Divine Liturgy LEFT: His Excellency Bishop Mar Emanuel Shaleta (center) celebrates Divine Liturgy with Father Christopher Andrews and Deacon Daniel Shabilla

He also described his own journey. First, he applied for refugee status in Lebanon, where he met his wife.

Shortly after their Chaldean wedding in Lebanon, Raphael Adam had to leave for the United States. When his wife arrived a year later, they held a beautiful Lebanese-style wedding reception to celebrate. He has held several successful jobs

teaching Arabic in the United States.

Raphael Adam is hopeful that the Chaldean Community in the United States will grow.

When describing San Diego as the New Babylon, his eyes lit up.

“There is a huge community there," he said. Most of them are refugees.”

Although their church is un-

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der persecution, the Chaldeans are working to rebuild. They believe their Liturgy teaches the world about Christ's beautiful relationship with His people.

May all Eastern Catholics persevere, and never give up in our mission to bring people to the Eucharist through our unique liturgies. And may God grant the Chaldean Catholic Community many blessed years. n

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parish news

st. john the baptist in scottdale, pa.

Spaghetti Sunday St. John the Baptist in Scottdale, Pa. held its annual Spaghetti Dinner and Basket Raffle Sunday on Oct. 21. Pictured below are Shirley Rusinko and Charlotte Korba, preparing salads in the kitchen. n

continued

DECEMBER 2018

st. michael the archangel in sheffield, pa.

“Pray the Rosary”

by Andrea Pollock St. Michael the Archangel in Sheffield, Pa.

Members of St. Michael the Archangel and St. Anthony Roman Catholic Church, both in

Sheffield, Pa., recited the rosary at noon for our country.

The weather was cool and breezy but we persevered for Our Lady. n

Preparing pirohi

John Peroski, Ellie and Andy Peroski, Father David Bosnich, Andrea Pollock and Joe Pollock. Photo by Andrea Pollock.

Parishioners at St. John the Baptist began preparing pirohi last month for the Christmas season. n

Blessing linens

st. mary assumption in new salem, pa.

by Bernie Karoffa St. Mary Assumption, New Salem, Pa.

Pat Marshal, Debbie Harold, Catherine Catalina, Betty Sapola and Mary Beth Weaver.

Donated altar linens were blessed by Father Christopher Burke following the Nov. 4 Divine Liturgy at St. Mary Assumption in New Salem, Pa. These beautiful altar coverings were donated to the church in memory of Helen Hanzely, a lifelong parishioner, who passed away in January, through the generosity of her

daughters, Kathy Ciampanelli and Lorretta Harold, and other family members and firends.

Family members living at a distance were grateful to the pastor for suggesting this donation and for inviting them to attend the Liturgy and blessing service.

These colorful linens consist of purple, black, white, green, gold, blue and red. A sincere “thank you” to Helen’s family! n

ss. peter and paul in duquesne, pa.

Reaching out October was Domestic Violence Month and SS. Peter and Paul’s Parish Club and church members collected 474 pairs of socks. The church partnered with the GFWC Women’s Club of Duquesne. The theme was

“Step Away from Domestic Violence.” Socks were donated to the Center for Victims, Veteran’s Hospital, and a local nursing home. The GCU and church members collected food for the food bank. n

Kathy Ciampanelli, Father Christopher Burke, Lorretta Harold

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DECEMBER 2018

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“Come and See” twelve men attend weekend of discernment at byzantine catholic seminary continued from page 1 not want to leave for I had found both a place of peace and an open learning environment.

On Sunday, I had the great pleasure of attending Divine Liturgy at St. Gregory in Upper St. Clair, Pa. I was able to appreciate more fully all that comes with choosing to follow God’s will as an eparchial priest by observing the pastor, Father Valerian Michlik.

By the end of the “Come and See” experience, I realized I must be patient.

Each of us has things we must work to complete first. I pray my journey brings me back to “Come and See” once again. n

FYI Founded in 1950, the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius is a free-standing, English-speaking theological seminary, forming men for priestly ordination and welcoming all men and women seeking the knowledge possessed by the Easten ecclesial traditions. The Seminary is authorized to grant graduate degrees by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools.

For more information, go to www.bcs.edu.

“The Rosary That Grew Flowers” auhor pens story of 1928 rusyn coal miner Press release

In July 1928, the Rusyn son of one of our Byzantine Churches in the American Territory captured the world’s attention.

At 22 years old, Michael Kusko broke his back working at the local coal mine. After five years of suffering and disability, coupled with devout prayer, he entered eternal life. At his wake, the rosary placed into his hands grew flowers.

Michael Kusko and his family worshipped and prayed with past members of our families.

They also were members of the Rosary Society. The Church of the story is the present day Byzantine Catholic Church of St. John the Baptist in Lansford, Pa. The story, made public again in a northeast Pennsylvania newspaper in 2013, brought

to the forefront a 1928 event which had long disappeared into the anthracite coal dust of Lansford. From 2013 until 2016, though, much research together with personal eye witness interviews retold the story.

Now that story, "The Rosary That Grew Flowers,” is published and available for purchase.

Its full-color, 166 pages — printed in larger font — reveal details confirmed many times.

Jeannie Paslawsky weaves the story from facts told in eye witness interviews as well as news accounts. She combines the somewhat scattered details into a story which describes and explains Byzantine Catholic tradition, coal mining history and local lore.

The author says it was three years of following almost incredulous situations which

revealed more and more facts for this historical non-fiction of Faith. During a recent discussion where Jeannie was the guest speaker, she recounts one encounter. One reader asked “Jeannie, what do people say — about this — the miracle, I mean? Is it a miracle? Do you believe it?” Another person quickly chimed in saying, “Remember the movie “The Song of Bernadette?” Well it began with a quote:"For those who believe, no explanation is necessary; for those who do not believe, no explanation is possible.”

Jeannie is available for visits to your area for discussions and books signings. The book can be purchased from a secure page at https://secure. mybookorders.com/orderpage/2050. n

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Jeannie Paslawsky is the researcher/writer. She has been writing & publishing short stories until this project. She worked almost full time for three years to extract, sort and compile all potential information as her ongoing work revealed. She is also a current parishioner at the Byzantine Catholic Church where the subject and his family worshipped with her paternal grandparents and their family.

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parish news

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DECEMBER 2018

2018 Year in Review Taking a look back...

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

2 Corinthians 5:17 As the year draws to a close and the calendar prepares to turn to 2019, it’s important to take a look back to the previous 12 months.

It certainly was a busy year.

Bishop Milan Lach was enthroned in Parma, Ohio; Very

April 8

Rev. Andrew Deskevich was appoined rector of St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa; and priests, deacons, Sisters and faithful gathered for Assembly 2018 to brainstorm action plans to grow the Church and ensure its vitality into the 21st century.

The staff of The Byzantine Catholic World wishes you a Joyous Christmas and a Blessed New Year! n

Farewell, Father Andrew

Jan. 14

Farewell, Father Andrew Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich celebrated his final Divine Liturgy as pastor of St. Elias in Munhall, Pa. Archbishop William Skurla appointed him rector of St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall. n

May 5

Father Vitalii Stashkevych ordained Father Vitalii Stashkevych was ordained to the Holy Order of the Presbyterate for the Byzantine Catholic Archeoarchy of Pittsburgh

by Archbishop William Skurla at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Father Vitalii is pastor of St. Elias in Munhall. n

Feb. 15

“Angels Build Bridges” The 15th annual Women’s Day of eflection was held at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist inMunhall, Pa. This year’s theme — “Angels Build bridges” — was discussed through three presentations to help women grow in their spirutality. The event was sponsored by the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchial Office of Religious Education. n

June 10

Blustery day at Mount St. Macrina A tornado passed through Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa., causing a few downed trees. There was no building damage and no injuries. Sisters of the Order of St. Basil the Great prayed for Uniontown, Connellsville and Fayette County residents affected by the storm. n

Saluting the staff The Byzantine Catholic Serra Club honored Archbishop William Skurla and his staff at the Chancery with a Moleben of Thanksgiving and dinner June 10 at the St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Pictured are Norma Kacsur; Sister Elaine Kisinko, OSBM; Sister Valeria Evanyo, OSBM; and Peter Kacsur. n

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2018 Year in Review Sept. 1 to 2

June 30

Bishop Milan Lach, SJ enthroned Bishop Milan Lach, SJ, 44, became the fifth bishop of the Byzantine Ruthenian Eparchy of Parma during a Divine Liturgy of Enthronement at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Parma, Ohio. He served as its apostolic administrator since June 24, 2017. n

July 26

Pilgrimage to Mount St. Macrina Thousands of pilgrims traveled to Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. for the 84th annual Pilgrimage in Honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. This year’s theme was “Mary, Hope of All Generations.” n

Sept. 16 to 18

Assembly 2018 Byzantine Catholic Day at Kennywood Clergy, sisters and faithful enjoyed fun in the sun during the annual Byzantine Catholic Day at Kennywood Park in West Mifflin, Pa. on July 26. n

More than 150 priests, deacons, Sisters and faithful gathered for Assembly 2018 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa., to brainstorm action plans to grow the Church and ensure its vitality into the 21st century. n

Oct. 3 to 28

July 31

Faith and Fun Day Thirty-six altar servers participated in the annual “Faith and Fun Day,” which included morning liturgy at Holy Ghost in McKees Rocks, Pa., a visit to the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. n

Synod of Bishops in Rome Archbishop William C. Skurla greets Pope Francis in Rome, Italy during the Synod of Bishops on Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment. n

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DECEMBER 2018

thoughts for our day

by Archpriest David M. Petras

the need for dialogue Before the twentieth century, relationships between separated churches could get very bitter.

The language of anathema continued in Christian disputes. It was particularly strong in the debates after the Council of Chalcedon. Such rhetoric continues to the present day, and I have recently read condemnations of Orthodoxy by Conservative Protestants that are unseemly. There are also groups of traditional Orthodox and traditional Catholics who consider the other side as heretics and are not sparing in their mutual anathemas. The language of mutual condemnation of the “other” has been definitely in the mainstream of theological history.

With a love for Scripture and for the tradition of the Church’s faith as expressed by its teaching authority, is there any way to “rationalize” this policy of anathema?It really should not be defended and there is another tradition also. In the Gospels, Jesus calls us definitely to love for the other, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust” (Matthew 5:43-45).

It is Jesus who calls us to unity, as a part of our deification: “I pray not only for them, but also for those who will be-

Mark your calendar Learn about Marriage Annulments Divorced Catholics and others who may be interested in learning about the annulment process are welcome to attend a free workshop with Jay Conzemius, JCL, judge and moderator; and Diane Kass, Tribunal Notary, of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Tribunal and Diocese of Pittsburgh

lieve in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me” (John 17:2021), and St. Paul who preaches: “one body and one Spirit, as you were also called to the one hope of your call; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all” (Ephesians 4:4-6).

There is truth, it is not an illusion, and there is absolute truth. As a Christian, I believe that Jesus Christ is truth.

One might point out that this unity is in one true belief, and the “others” are excluded, but it also points out that we are not to condemn the others, but to bring them into unity, hopefully through dialogue and not through violence. We cannot simply “rationalize” Scripture, but we can observe that the purpose of Scripture and tradition is to strengthen our faith, to make us more committed to the truth, to have a zeal for the gospel. At the same time, we might also say that “tradition” is good, but “traditionalism” is deadly; that “zeal” is good -— and scripture and tradition are about zeal — but zealotry is about hate.

The Second Vatican Coun-

Tribunal.

Topics will include: theology of marriage; ministry of the tribunal; marriage annulment types; why, when and how to start the petition for annulment process; and a process overview. Afterward participants can ask questions and/or start the process.

This important presentation will take place at St. John Byzantine Catholic Cathedral, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, Pa. on Tuesday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m.

No reservations are required but if you do plan to attend email

cil made a 180-degree turn in the matter of ecumenism. Before that, Catholics were very self-righteous.

We couldn’t even attend a Protestant or Orthodox service except for the most dire reasons, and then we weren’t supposed to participate actively in any way - just sort of be present there like a lump.

Some traditional Orthodox are still that way and won’t even pray with a non-Orthodox.

Ecumenism is not as strong today as it was in those first enthusiastic years.

Dialogue is necessary, but is it possible? We have learned from the ecumenical movement of the last 50 years that there is one danger to be avoided. That is to conceive dialogue as “compromise.” Dialogue becomes toxic when it weakens our own love for truth. I strongly proclaim that I am not a relativist. There is truth, it is not an illusion, and there is absolute truth. As a Christian, I believe that Jesus Christ is truth. He is also love, life, wisdom and the power of God. Dialogue is not “compromise” but a mutual and respectful “search for the fullness of truth.” However, it is not “dialogue” unless we confess the possibility of learning from one another. What we know may be the truth and, indeed, even the absolute truth, but as human beings with limitations, it may not be “all that we can know.” It is hubris to think that we cannot learn from the other. This does not compromise our faith, but helps to deepen it.

The very definition of “schism” might be to grasp only a part of the total reality. In accepting inter-religious dialogue as a desirable possibility, the Vat-

ican II Council said: “whatever good or truth is found” in other religions is “given by him who enlightens all men that they may at length have life” (Lumen Gentium16). The children of God numbers in the billions, and only a minority have come to know of Christ in authentic way. We need the humility in faith to know that God does not abandon the people he has made in his image and likeness, that he finds ways of salvation for them all in his infinite loving providence, and therefore, we can learn from the other, all the while establishing ourselves on the right foundation of truth.

In all my work for dialogue, I reflect on the ultimate anomaly of Christian disunity, especially with our Orthodox brothers and sisters. We acknowledge the authenticity of the Orthodox sacraments; in the Divine Liturgy, they receive the one body and one chalice of our Lord’s blood, and they — at least in general — recognize the Catholic Liturgy, we, too receive the one body of our Lord and God and Savior Jesus Christ. But we cannot partake together of the one same body and blood. How can this be?

Are we tearing apart the body of Christ? This anomaly cries out for healing. And, moreover, this principle applies to all believers in Christ and, indeed, to all human beings. If we pray honestly to God, we must pray for unity, as we do in every Liturgy, “For peace in the whole world, for the stability of the holy Churches of God, and for the union of all, let us pray to the Lord” (Litany of Peace). n

archpitt@aol.com, or call Diane Kass at 412-456-3033 so seating arrangements can be made. n

of Salvation is Near: Prepare by Prayer, Fasting, Repentance and Almsgiving” 1:15-5:30 p.m. Dec. 16. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be offered along with a conference and a prayer service.

Offering of $35 includes dinner.

Register by Dec. 12.

The following events will take place at Mount St. Macrina House of Prayer, 510 W. Main St, Uniontown, Pa. To register for programs or more information, call 724-438-7149.

Christmas Preparation Retreat n Father Cyprian Constantine, OSB, will pressent “The Time

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Open House n An Open House will be held 1:30-3:30 p.m. Jan. 13, 2019.

Come and spend some time with the Sisters in the warmth of the House of Prayer!

DECEMBER 2018

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overnight. (Possibility for a few people to spend a quiet night inside the Holy Sepulcher when the church is closed to the public.)

Day 9 • Jerusalem Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, visit to St. Anne’s Church, the Pool of Bethesda, the Chapel of the Flagellation and Via Crucis along the Via Dolorosa, entry to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, containing the tomb where Jesus was buried and rose from the dead. Free time for the rest of the afternoon. Dinner and overnight.

Day 10 • Jerusalem After breakfast, departure to Tel Aviv airport, flight back home. If option flights via Boston are confirmed in March, the flight from Tel Aviv will take off after midnight Sept.24 and we will not spend the night in the hotel.

A Journey of the Spirit This pilgrimage to the Holy Land has the intention to slow down our inner and outer pace. We will visit selected sites during the day, insuring more time for personal reflection, prayers and group interactions. Our main focus will be the quality of time.

Sitting quietly on the Mount of the Beatitudes, watching the Sea of Galilee, perceiving there the voice of our Lord preaching; entering the Holy Sepulcher with an open heart to contemplate the mystery of Salvation. Simple moments like these will make our journey different.

Wherever you come from and whatever has been your experience in the Holy Land, come embark on a real journey of the spirit in the footsteps of Jesus, intentionally set at a different pace to perceive our true nature as creatures of God and to enter, by the help of Grace, Kairos, the time of God.

We will be visiting: Nazareth: The city of Mary connected to the years before the public life of Jesus. These are the places where the Holy Family lived together. In Nazareth we need to connect and seriously ponder the meaning of the marriage and the reality of the family.

Capharneum: During His public life Jesus spent a long time near Galilee Lake. This is the place where He called the first Apostles.

Here is the place where we can reconnect to our vocation of being Christian or where youth can pray for discernment.

Judah Desert: This is the site where we can reconnect with the penitential liturgy: the 40 years spent by the Israelis in the desert and the 40 days spent by Jesus after His baptism. The desert is the place of prayer and meeting with the Father.

Qasr el Yahoud: The place where Jesus was baptized invites us to reflect on this Sacrament and how it is connected to faith.

Jerusalem: Jerusalem offers a great richness of holy places: the Last Supper and the Sacrament of the Eucharist. There is no sacrament of Eucharist without the Church

and vice versa. The connection is essential. In order to enter into the mystery of passion, death and resurrection of Christ, Jerusalem helps us to retrace these moments by experiencing the Via Crucis and the entrance to the Holy Sepulcher.

Bethlehem: place of birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, and final destination of the pilgrimages of the Three Magi, who came from the Far East to homage the Savior of the world: this connection is significant for remembering and deepening the meaning of the universality of the church as catholic.

Full Itinerary: Day 1 • Departure Departure to Tel Aviv with EL AL from Toronto or Boston. Connection from Pittsburgh may be via bus to Toronto or via flight to Boston, to be confirmed in March.

Day 2 • Nazareth Arrival at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion airport in the afternoon. Travel to Galilee, the most beautiful and fertile region of the Holy Land.

Arrival at Nazareth in the evening, dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 3 • Nazareth Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, visit the Church of the Transfiguration at Mt. Tabor, stop at Cana, site of the wedding feast. In the afternoon, visit to the Shrine of the Annunciation and to the Church of St. Joseph, built where the Holy Family lived. Time to visit the Greek Catholic “Synagogue” Church and the Greek Catholic Parish Church. Dinner and overnight in Nazareth.

Day 4 • Nazareth After breakfast, departure to the region of Lake Tiberias: we will take a beautiful boat ride, during which we will stop and connect with the Gospel readings regarding Jesus crossing the lake. Visit Capernaum (synagogue and Peter’s home where Jesus stayed) and to the two shrines at Tabgha (site of the Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes and site of the Primacy of Peter), ascent to the Mount of Beatitudes. Quality time here. Stop in Magdala before heading back to Nazareth, the village of Mary of Magdala where a 1st century synagogue has been recently found.

Dinner and overnight in Nazareth.

Day 5 • Nazareth Breakfast at the hotel. Descend through the Valley of the River Jordan, renewal of the Baptismal Promises in Qasr El Yahud. We then proceed towards the Dead Sea to experience the healing waters of the lowest geological point of the world. After that stop in Jericho.

View of the Mount of Temptation and view of an old sycamore tree that reminds us of Zaccheus’ encounter with Jesus. Lunch in Jericho. Stop in the Judean desert for a quiet, prayerful experience before arriving in Jerusalem. Dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 6 • Jerusalem After breakfast, visit of Jerusalem, the “City of God.” Stop at the Western Wall, and view the magnificent ruins of the Temple of Herod where there is now the Muslim Mosque called “Dome of the Rock”. Walk through the Jewish neighborhood and discover the ruins of the ancient Roman street “Cardo Maximus.” Visit Mount Zion: the room of the Last Supper and the Cenotaph of King David, the Church of the Dormition, and the Church of St. Peter Gallicantu where St. Peter denied Jesus. Free time to walk in the Old City. Today we will visit the Melkite Greek Catholic Patriarchate. Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.

Day 7 • Jerusalem Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, departure to Bethlehem to visit the Church of the Nativity and the Grotto of St. Jerome, the Roum Catholic Melkite Church, the Shepherd’s Field. In the afternoon, visit the village of Ein Kerem, birthplace of St. John the Baptist and place of the visit of Mary to St. Elisabeth. Possible free time in Jerusalem. Dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 8 • Jerusalem Breakfast at the hotel. Full day dedicated to the visit of the city sacred to the three monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The visit includes Mount of Olives: the Ascension chapel, the Church of the Pater Noster, the church where Jesus wept (Dominus Flevit), the Garden of Gethsemane with the Basilica of the Agony, the Virgin’s Tomb. In the afternoon time for our first visit to the Holy Sepulcher. Dinner and

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September 15 to 24, 2019 US$ 3,350 per person in double Single supplement: US$ 590 Based on a minimum of 40 participants. In case of a smaller number of participants price will be subject to change.

The price includes • Airfare round trip ( (bus+flight from Toronto to Tel Aviv and back or via flight only from Pittsburgh to Boston and Boston-Tel Aviv and back. Full flight combination Pittsburgh-Boston-Tel Aviv-Boston-Pittsburgh to be confirmed in March with possible small price adjustment).

• Airport assistance at arrival • Accommodation in double room, 3/4 star hotels (such as Hotel Rimonim in Nazareth and Hotel Christmas in Jerusalem or similar) • Half board (breakfast and dinner) • Entrance fees and tips • Private coach as per itinerary • Qualified ORP Holy Land Catholic guide The price does not include • Any insurance. However we are happy to provide a medical group insurance once the group is determined • Individual travel and medical insurance available upon request.

• Beverages & Extras • Anything not in Price Includes section Deposit & Refund Policy Deposit deadline: $500 by January 15: NOT REFUNDABLE Second deposit: US$ 1,500 by April 15, 2019: 50% refundable until July 1, 2019 Balance: due July 1, 2019, NO REFUND OF ANY KIND AFTER THIS POINT

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DECEMBER 2018

liturgical schedule at the Seminary “Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord”

around the archeparchy CHRISTMAS CRAFT/BAKE SALE — Noon-5 p.m. Dec. 1, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 2, St. John the Baptist, 201 E. Main St., Uniontown, Pa. Sale features decorations, wood crafted items, folk crafts, religious articles, parish cookbooks (Carpathian Cookery), imported items, homemade candy, various baked goods (long rolls, cookies, breads, etc.), and many other articles that would make fine Christmas gifts or holiday decorations.

No admission fee. For information, call 724-438-6027 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Leave message.

PIROHI SALE — Holy Ghost, 225 Olivia St., McKees Rocks, Pa. To order, call 412-331-5155 9 a.m.-noon Wednesday prior to sale. Pick-up 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fridays through Dec. 14.

Handmade, fully cooked, made fresh and ready to eat. Potato, sauerkraut and cheese.

Join the Byzantine Catholic Seminary community for liturgical services at 3605 Perrysville Ave, Pittsburgh, Pa. Enter through the chapel door that faces Perrysville Avenue. It’s recommended visitors call 412-3218383 in advance so that we may be awaiting your arrival. For more information about the Seminary: go to www.bcs.edu.

Schedule of Services for December: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20

9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 5 p.m. All-Night Vigil (R) 8 a.m. Divine Liturgy (M), 9 p.m. Small Compline (R) 8 a.m. 1st Royal Hour (R) 7 a.m. 3rd Royal Hour (R) 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 5 p.m. Great Vespers (M) 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) (St. Nicholas) 8 a.m. Orthros (M) 4 p.m. Vigil Divine Liturgy (R) (Maternity of Holy Anna) No services 7 a.m. Festal Matins with Divine Liturgy (R) 8 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 7 a.m. Penitential Moleben (R) 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 9 p.m. Small Compline (R) 7 a.m. 6th Royal Hour (R), 4 p.m. Great Compline for Nativity 8 a.m. Divine Liturgy (M), 4 p.m. Vespers (M) with 10th Kathisma 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 5 p.m. Nativity vespers (R) 7 a.m. Festal Orthros with Divine Liturgy (M) 9 p.m. Small Compline (R) 8 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 7 a.m. 3rd Hour (R) 7 a.m. 6th Hour (R) 7 a.m. 9th Royal Hour (R)

(M) Melkite

TASTE OF HEAVEN COOKIE SALE — 9 a.m.-noon Dec. 1, St. Gregory, 2005 Mohawk Road, Upper St. Clair, Pa. Containers provided for you to select favorites from a large assortment of homemade cookies and holiday treats. Small container: $8; large container: $15. For directions, visit stgregoryusc.org. For information, call the Parish Office at 412-835-7800.

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET WITH SANTA — 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 9, St. Mary’s Center, Route 981, Trauger, Pa. Cost is $6 for adults and $3 for ages 5 to 10. No charge for ages 4 and under. Sponsored by St. Mary’s Youth Group.

REMINDER: There will be a CHRISTMAS ISSUE (Dec. 25) of The BCW in addition to the monthly December issue.

Please submit photos and stories about Christmas in your parish!

Submissions deadline for the Christmas issue is Dec. 13.

(R) Ruthenian

dates to remember DEC. 6 Feast of Our Holy Father Nicholas of Myra DEC. 8 Feast of the Maternity of Holy Anna DEC. 9 St. Nicholas Celebration St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa. DEC. 16 Christmas at the Cathedral with the Archeparchial Choir St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa. DEC. 25 Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ DEC. 26 Feast of the Synaxis of the Holy Theotokos dec. 27 Feast of the Holy Protomartyr Stephen dec. 31 Vigil of the Feast of the Circumcision of our Lord Vigil of the Feast of St. Basil the Great New Year’s Eve

See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org the byzantine catholic world

Official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh

Byzantine Catholic Press Associates 66 Riverview Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Tel: 412.231.4000 Fax: 412.231.1697 E-mail: bcw@archpitt.org Web site: www.archpitt.org

next issue: CHRISTMAS 2018

submissions DEADLINE: DECEMBER 13