THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHEPARCHY OF PITTSBURGH
Inside
VOL. 64 NO. 4
commitment to children
holy week, pascha schedule
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month Page 2
Dates and times at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Page 5
“Fry-day” on my mind
APRIL 2019
surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses” Byzantine Catholic Serra Club visits St. Anthony’s Chapel in Pittsburgh Page 12
Rev. Brian E. Daley, S.J. to speak at annual Seminary Lecture Press release
The hall at St. Elias in Munhall, Pa. was packed March 8 for its first fish fry of the Lenten season. The 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday fish fry continues through April 12. For more photos, see page 6.
Breaking bread retreats at mount st. macrina offer opportunity to bake, pray together By David Mayernik Jr. Editor
At her home in Staten Island, N.Y., Patricia Dietz enjoys baking all manner of breads. But her decision to travel more than 350 miles from New York to Uniontown, Pa. to attend a bread baking retreat at the Sisters of St. Basil the Great’s House of Prayer on Mount St. Macrina had more to do with wanting to lift her inner spirit. “I needed a retreat, actually. I like to bake bread. I wanted to experience a bread baking retreat to see how Sister Carol (Petrasovich, OSBM) would tie it into the bread.” Patricia was one of nine participants in the Feb. 16 retreat,
as they baked loaves of Lenten bread, or bread without any dairy ingredients. It was the first time the Sisters of St. Basil the Great hosted such a retreat. A second retreat was held on March 16. A retired secretary, Patricia is a Basilian Associate and cantor at St. Thomas the Apostle in Rahway, N.J. She said the experience was quite moving. “It was very prayerful. We were praying as we were kneading the dough, the Lenten bread.” Sister Carol explained the activity of kneading the bread was a metaphor for how Christ shapes us to be good Chris-
tians. “As we knead the bread, God ‘kneads’ us and ‘works’ us,” Patricia said. The bread, which was made from scratch, was taken home by the participants. “We didn’t eat it afterward because it was still warm. You can’t eat bread when it’s warm. Everybody got to take their loaf of bread home.” Patricia said the time spent baking and praying with others was a restful experience. “We all worked in the kitchen together and while the bread was raising, we were allowed to go into the chapel and pray quietly and reflect on what we Story continued on page 13
Rev. Brian Daley, S.J. is scheduled to speak at the 19th annual SS. Cyril and Methodius Lecture of the Byzantine Catholic Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pa. With the lecture scheduled for 7 p.m. May 9 at St. John Cathedral Center in Munhall, Pa., Father Daley has selected "Breathing Unity: Orthodox-Catholic Dialogue Today and its Promise for the Eastern Catholic Churches” as his topic. The public is welcome to attend the lecture and hear about the ecumenical progress and cherished hopes of the Catholic-Orthodox Consultation of North America. The annual lecture series is sponsored by the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius, a community of mentors, teachers, and students forming leaders for the Church in an environment of Christian unity, integrity, and missionary spirit, with a commitment to ecumenism. Such a commitment identifies closely to our speaker’s topic. Father Daley is the Catherine F. Huisking Professor of Theology at the University of Notre Dame, Ind. A 1961 graduate of Fordham University (New York), he studied ancient history and philosophy at Merton College, Oxford, as a Rhodes Scholar, from 1961 to 1964, then entered the Society of Jesus. After theological studies in Frankfurt, Germany, and ordination to the priesthood in 1970, he returned to Oxford to complete a D.Phil. in the Faculty of Theology from 1972 until Story continued on page 3
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april is national child abuse prevention month UPS 081500 ISSN 07442289 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 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 Sister Elaine Kisinko, OSBM Copy Editor Donna Obsincs Subscription/Circulation Manager Gregory S. Popivchak Business Manager Annual Subscription Rates US $14 Canadian $17 International $20 Periodicals Postage PAID at Pittsburgh, PA
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. Submissions deadline: 15th of the month prior to the month of publication.
The Byzantine Catholic World is a member of the Catholic Press Association.
mission The mission of The Byzantine
Commitment to children It seems that we, in the United States, recognize worthy causes on a monthly basis. For example, October is breast cancer awareness month. January is Alzheimer’s awareness month. And, April is national child abuse prevention month. In April, archdioceses, dioceses, organizations and communities within the Catholic Church in the United Sates highlight their commitment to child abuse prevention and emphasize the importance of protecting minors and vulnerable individuals from evil. It is important, however, for the faithful and others to know that the work of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh in protecting minor children and those vulnerable is a year-round commitment. The efforts of the Archeparchy in this regard are part of its ongoing work to carry out the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. Beginning with its adoption in 2002 and continuing through the present with some revisions over the years, the Charter is a comprehensive set of procedures for addressing allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy. The Charter also includes guidelines for reconciliation, healing, accountability, and prevention of future acts of abuse. The Archeparchy, through the direction of Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla, has pledged to follow the Charter by taking appropriate action to: • Create a safe environment for children and young people; • Heal and reconcile with victims and survivors; • Make prompt and effective responses to allegations; • Cooperate with civil authorities; • Discipline offenders; and • Provide for a means of accountability. The Archeparchy is committed to providing a safe environment for all children in its churches, programs, and activities. Such commitment involves education, continued training to reinforce appropriate behaviors, and mandated reporting by all clergy, employees, and volunteers who come into contact with children. The Archeparchy shall continue to be vigilant and will not waiver in its obligation to provide a safe, welcoming, and prayerful place for those who seek Christ. For more information on the Archeparchy’s implementation of the Charter, please refer to the Archeparchy’s website: www.archpitt.org/Offices/protection-of-children/ n
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 Christ in everyday activities 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. the byzantine catholic world
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Clergy Formation Day meeting focuses on technology, information security Press release
Priests and deacons of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh met Feb. 26 at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. for a Clergy Formation Day on security. The morning presentation focused on technology and information security. The presentation was given by Terri Ballard, Director of Information Technology at La Roche College in Pittsburgh, Pa. She recently directed security training for all La Roche faculty and staff in order to proactively meet the challenges and threats which face us in the use of technology. She shared many aspects that apply to the use of technology in our parishes. The afternoon presentation covered security of the physical church property. Dr. John Cencich and his son, Sebastian, gave that presentation. Dr. Cencich is a Criminology Professor at California University of Pennsylvania and the director of the Pennsylvania Center for Investigative and Forensic Sciences. He retired after 25 years of service in local, state and federal law-enforcement and he completed his professional career with a four-year appointment with the United Nations International War Crimes Tribunal at The Hague. Sebastian Cencich is a police officer for the City of McKeesport, Pa. and holds a bach-
Bulletin Board Expression of thanks
Terri Ballard, Director of Information Technology at La Roche College
Corrections/ Clarifications
Dr. John Cencich, Criminology Professor at California University of Pennsylvania
“Holy Supper feeds body, soul” in the Feb. 2019 issue incorrectly indentified cantor Mike Litsko, of Church of the Resurrection in Monroeville, Pa. The Byzantine Catholic World regrets the error. n
Carpathian Cookery cookbooks available Sebastian Cencich, police officer for the City of McKeesport, Pa.
elor’s degree in Homeland and International Security from California University of Penn-
sylvania. He is also a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. n
Rev. Brian E. Daley, S.J. continued from page 1
1978. He then taught historical theology for 18 years at the Weston Jesuit School of Theology in Cambridge, Massachusetts, before moving to Notre Dame in 1996. He is the author of “The Hope of the Early Church” (Cambridge, 1991; Hendrickson, 2002); “Gregory of Nazianzus” (Routledge, 2006); and “God Visible: Patristic Christology Reconsidered” (Oxford, 2018), as well as many articles. He is also the translator of “Hans Urs von Balthasar, Cosmic Liturgy — The Universe according to Maximus the Confessor” (Ignatius, 2003), and of collections of Byzantine homilies on the Dormition of Mary and the Transfiguration of the Lord (St. Vladimir’s, 1998, 2013). His critical edition of the works of the sixth-century theologian,
Father Robert F. Oravetz expresses his gratitude for the many cards and phone calls received during his seven months of convalescence following the injuries suffered in a fall at the Uniontown pilgrimage. He has returned to full-time ministry at his two parishes in Conemaugh and Nanty Glo, both in Pennsylvania. n
Leontius of Byzantium, appeared in 2018. Father Daley is the executive secretary of the Catholic-Orthodox Consultation for North America. In fall 2012, he was awarded the Ratzinger Prize in Theology by Pope Benedict XVI. He is the first Jesuit and the first American to receive this award. The Seminary expects this year’s lecture by Father Daley to be of great interest, and seating is limited. There will be time for questions and answers and a reception is to follow. There is no charge but registration is required by April 27. Register online at www.bcs.edu, call 412-321-8383, or email office@bcs.edu. St. John’s Cathedral Center is located at 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, Pa. Founded in 1950, the Byzantine Catholic Seminary is a
Rev. Brian E. Daley
free-standing, English speaking theological seminary, welcoming all those seeking the knowledge possessed by the Eastern ecclesial traditions. The Seminary is authorized to grant the Master of Arts in Theology and Master of Divinity degrees by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools. n
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The Carpathian Cookery cookbook, compiled by parishioners of St. John the Baptist in Uniontown, Pa., has entered its 18th printing after selling nearly 17,000 copies and is availabel for sale. The 330-page cookbook has a new look, features a protective plastic cover and includes sections on Christmas and Easter customs and recipes, traditional Rusyn and Slavic foods, other ethnic dishes, and many other tried-and-true recipes. There is a variety of paska bread and kolachi (filled roll) recipes, as well as meatless dishes and Lenten recipes suitable for the Great Fast and the Pre-Christmas Fast. Cost is $14 plus $4 postage and handling ($18). If ordering from Canada, please send a $28 U.S. Postal money order payable in U.S. dollars to reflect the difference in the exchange rate and postage cost. To order, send a check or money order to: Ethnic Craft Club, St. John Byzantine Catholic Church, 201 E. Main Street, Uniontown, Pa. 15401. For information, 724-438-6027 (9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday to Friday) or carpathiancookery@gmail. com. n
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text messages
The joys of Saturday evening Vigil by David Mayernik Jr. Editor
I usually go to Divine Liturgy on Sunday mornings but for important reasons, I attended two Saturday evening Vigils last month. They were offered for the repose of the souls of my grandparents, Helen and John, of Charleroi, Pa.; and my Aunt Anita. I hadn’t been to a Saturday Vigil in a long time but it was a fulfilling change. For one thing, I’ve never been accused of being a “morning person.” I find it lot more relaxing getting ready to attend an evening service than getting out of bed any morning. Saturday evening Vigils also hearken back to my younger days.
In my youth, when I visited my grandparents in Monessen, Pa. for a weekend, I always sat in the front pew — either the first or second row — on the left side with my grandma at St. Mary on Saturday evenings. (Since both of my grandmas are named “Helen,” I used to think all grandmas had that same name...) My grandpap usually had to work various tasks behind the scenes during the Vigil as the church’s sacristan. As a pre-teen, Monsignor Andrew Parvensky — who performed my baptism — was always a commanding and intimidating presence. I especially remember, at the conclusion of the Vigil or Divine Liturgy, he usually wouldn’t recite a complete rundown of the upcoming week’s activities at St. Mary. Rather, he would hold the bulletin aloft in his hand and announce to parishioners —
That’s me in 1975, pulling on the doors of St. Mary in Monessen, Pa.
even though I always heard it as a stern command — in his deep, bellowing voice: “Announcements, read in the bulletin!” After Vigil, we waited in the church hall for my grandpap to finish his chores and it was off in the Plymouth Reliant to Hills department store to look at “Star Wars” action figures. Then it was back to the house
on Aliquippa Avenue to order pizza from La Eda’s Family Restaurant. I was able to get a tray of its square pizza slices last year and I am happy to report it tastes exactly the same as in the 1980s, which is to say: exquisite. Those Saturday night memories remain extremely vivid all these years later in 2019. n
view from the little sisters of the poor
Join us on the journey through Lent by Sister Constance Veit, LSP Little Sisters of the Poor
Lent reminds us that we are pilgrims on the path of discipleship, living out the paschal mystery in our lives, each according to our own vocation. I think it is helpful to have a resolution or personal intention to help focus our spiritual efforts during this period of prayer and penance. This year I’ve chosen to travel through Lent in the company of Mary, the mother of Jesus and his first and most faithful disciple. I invite you to do the same, and to join me, as well, in offering prayers and sacrifices for young people during this holy season. Last year’s Synod of Bishops on Young People, together with January’s celebration of World Youth Day in Panama, has drawn our attention to the situation of young adults in society and the church. These events challenged us to accompany young adults in their faith journey and vocational discernment. “Being present, supporting
and accompanying the journey towards authentic choices is one way for the church to exercise her maternal function,” the Synod Fathers wrote. “Service of this kind is simply the continuation of the way in which the God of Jesus Christ acts towards his people: through constant and heartfelt presence, dedicated and loving closeness and tenderness without limits.” Our Lady embodies these qualities, for she knew how to ponder events in her heart and she proved herself attentive to others’ needs. Generations have called her Our Lady of Tenderness, Mother of Mercy and Virgin Most Faithful. A number of traditional Catholic devotions such as the Rosary and the Stations of the Cross lead us to ponder Mary’s experiences and her role in her Son’s saving mission. The Seven Sorrows Rosary is a very old but little known devotion focused on seven particularly challenging events in Mary’s life. These events include Simeon’s prophecy in the Temple, the flight into Egypt, the loss of Jesus in the Temple, the encounter with Jesus on the way of the Cross, Mary standing at the foot of the Cross, the
reception of her Son’s body after his death and his placement in the tomb. Trusting in the power of her intercession, this Lent I’ve decided to offer the Seven Sorrows Rosary for the needs and intentions of young people. It’s not that I want to give young people the impression that following Jesus is nothing but a long road of suffering. However, prayerfully reflecting on Mary’s sorrows helps us to understand what it means to persevere through life’s inevitable difficulties. In Panama, Pope Francis encouraged young people to look to Mary as a model of great strength and faithfulness. During the celebration of the Stations of the Cross, the pope said, “From her let us learn how to stand beneath the cross with her same determination and courage, without evasions or illusions. She accompanied the suffering of her Son … yet was not overwhelmed by it. She was the woman of strength who uttered her ‘yes,’ who supports and accompanies, protects and embraces. She is the great guardian of hope.” The next evening, during the Prayer Vigil, Pope Francis pro-
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posed Mary’s “yes” to God in the Annunciation as a model worth following. “She knew what was at stake and said ‘yes’ … It was the ‘yes’ of someone prepared to be committed, someone willing to take a risk, ready to stake everything she had, with no more security than the certainty of knowing that she was the bearer of a promise ... The ‘yes’ and the desire to serve were stronger than any doubts and difficulties.” During this Lenten season, I’d like to invite readers, especially young people, to join me and our elderly residents in pondering Mary as our Lord’s first and most courageous, most faithful disciple. Please join us on the journey! Each week we’ll be posting reflections from the Synod documents and our Holy Father’s talks during World Youth Day in Panama, together with video meditations on the Seven Sorrows Rosary. Please join us at www.LittleSistersofthePoor. org! n Sister Constance Veit is director of communications for the Little Sisters of the Poor.
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Mark Your Calendar
dates to remember 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.
Candlelight Dinner for Married Couples A Candlelight Dinner for Married Couples will be held 6:30-9 p.m. May 2. Offering of $70 per couple. Register by April 26. Guest speakers will be Deacon Michael and Lorri George. Experience a lovely evening of music, dining, a Chinese auction and a heartwarming presentation in the atmosphere of a former 1903 Coal Baron’s home. n
House Tours Tour the former mansion of J. V. Thompson by period costumed guides and learn the history of one of the leading and wealthiest coal barons of his day 1-3 p.m. May 19. Offering: $12, adults; $6, children. Provided by Laurel Highlands High School History Students. n
Young Adult Retreat Gather with other young adults seeking God’s way along life’s journey 7 p.m. June 21 to 11 a.m. June 23. Hosted by Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick, OSBM and the Young Adult Team. Registration due June 14. Offering is $110. Open to Christian men and women ages 18 to 35 years old. n
Holy week and pascha schedule St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Cathedral 210 Greentree Road Munhall, Pa. 15120 www.stjohnbyzantinecathedral.com
412-461-0944
Holy Monday 7 p.m. APRIl 15 n n
Presanctified Liturgy Confessions
Holy tuesday 7 p.m. APRIL 16 n n
Presanctified Liturgy Confessions
holy saturday
Holy wednesday
9 a.m. APRIl 20
7 p.m. APRIL 17
Jerusalem Matins Noon-7 p.m. Vigil at the Shroud
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Presanctified Liturgy and Anointing with Holy Oil n Confessions n
7 p.m. APRIL 20
Resurrection Matins with the Divine Liturgy followed by the Blessing of Paschal foods
n
Holy thursday 7 p.m. APRIL 18
Great Vespers with Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great with the Washing of the Feet by Archbishop William Skurla
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good friday 10 a.m. APRIL 19 n
Reading of the 12 Passion Gospels
7 p.m. APRIL 19
the radiant resurrection 9 a.m. april 21
Divine Liturgy followed by the Blessing of Paschal Foods
n
bright monday 9 a.m. april 22 n
Entombment Vespers for Good Friday and Procession with the Holy Shroud. After Solemn Vespers, all are encouraged to visit the church for a time of prayer. The church will be open until midnight.
Divine Liturgy
n
Greater Pittsburgh Protopresbytery Penitential Vespers Mystery of reconciliation precedes vespers
4 p.m. April 7 St, John the Baptist 105 Kohler Ave., Lyndora, Pa. Deacon: Paul Simko Homilist: Monsignor Russell Duker
bright tuesday 9 a.m. april 23 n
Divine Liturgy
Women’s Day of Reflection 2019 The 17th annual Women’s Day of Reflection will be held 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. May 11 at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, Pa. A dedicated committee meets throughout the year to plan and coordinate the day, working with a theme of interest to women to help them grow in their spirituality. The springtime event features a schedule of three speakers who focus on the chosen theme of the day; luncheon; vendors and a bountiful basket auction with proceeds donated to local women’s shelters.
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This year’s theme is “God Speaks: Do We Listen?” Presenters include: Lillian Leonardi (“My Spiritual Homecoming”), Jennifer Miele (“God Speaks to All Generations”) and Joni Sturgill (“Healthy Body: Peaceful Soul”). Contact Sister Marion Dobos at 412-322-8773 or mdobos1@gmail.com for more information. Cost of $25 includes lunch. No refunds. Pre-registration is required. Deadline is April 26. Sponsored by the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchial Office of Religious Education. n
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APRIL 2019
st. elias in munhall, pa.
Thank goodness it’s “Fry-day” St. Elias in Munhall, Pa. held its first fish fry of the Lenten season on March 8. Father Vitalii Stashkevych is pastor. n
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parish news
st. john the baptist in scottdale, pa.
Pysanky & pirohi
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holy trinity in sykesville, pa.
Icon project by Matthew Kosko Holy Trinity, Sykesville, Pa.
Two new icons of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel were recently completed by Father Mark Meholick at Holy Trinity in Sykesville, Pa. Five additional icons are being
written and will also be placed in the altar area. Our icon project which began in 2017, has added 10 new icons to our beautiful Church. We thank our parishioners who have donated towards this project. n
st. stephen in north huntingdon, pa.
First Reconciliation Dawn Marie Basinger instructs St. John the Baptist parishioners and friends in the art of pysanky.
ABOVE Clockwise from top left: Terry Frederick, Betty Sapola, Maryna Seremchuk, Kathy Onusko, Anita Wisniewski and Mike Marcej prepare pirohi for the Lenten season at St. John the Baptist in Scottdale, Pa.
The weekend of March 23 to 24 was First Reconciliation weekend at St. Stephen in North Huntingdon, Pa. The students in Leia Shilobod's ECF class have been learning about and anticipating their first confession. Seminarian Paul West has been instrumental in the period of preparation during the past couple of months. On March 23, Father John
Petro heard the first confessions of these eight children: Olivia Andrykovitch, Katie Arendas, Arianna Hresko, Sydney Hrinda, Nolan Keleschenyi, Rebecca Petteway, Ava Shilobod and Robbie Stepusin. The liturgy on March 24 celebrated this special milestone for these young students and provided an opportunity for the children to lead the parish in receiving Holy Eucharist. n
Back row: Bob Lanyi, altar server; Kristen Keleschenyi, ECF coordinator; Seminarian Paul West; Very Rev. Archpriest John Petro; Norman Heinack, altar server; Leia Shilobod, ECF instructor; and Nicholas Keleschenyi, altar server. Front: Olivia Andrykovitch, Nolan Keleschenyi, Robbie Stepusin, Katie Arendas, Arianna Hresko, Ava Shilobod, and Rebecca Petteway. Not pictured: Sydney Hrinda.
LEFT Catherine Catalina fills a tray of pirohi for the freezer.
Back row: Nolan Keleschenyi, Olivia Andrykovitch, Katie Arendas, Ava Shilobod, Rebecca Petteway and Robbie Stepusin. Front: Sydney Hrinda and Arianna Hresko.
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APRIL 2019
st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa.
Comedy tonight by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
All was ready for this year’s Comedy Night 2019 on March 1. Parishioners and friends of St. Gregory packed the church hall for this pre-Lenten event that has been a great success for the past 10 years. Our parish kitchen was busy serving delicious ethnic dishes prepared by our dedicated parishioners. The evening opened with David Kaye, Pittsburgh’s King of Comedy and a good friend of St. Gregory.
We all enjoyed Tom Musial and John Evans, comedians who were both hilarious with their clean humor and made it a perfect funny fundraiser for our parish family. As part of this evening a special cake was presented to David Kaye on behalf of St. Gregory’s parishioners. The evening concluded announcing the winners of our various raffles. A big thank you to all our dedicated parishioners and patrons of this pre-Lenten event. n David Kaye
Tom Musial
John Evans
Photos by Jennifer Kehm
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st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa.
Sunday of Orthodoxy
by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
Each of the Sundays of the Great Fast has its own special theme. Originally, the First Sunday of the Great Fast was dedicated to the memory of the Holy Prophets of the Old Covenant. That is reflected in the Sunday Gospel reading when Philip tells Nathaniel: “We have found the one about whom Moses wrote in the Law, and also the prophets� (John 1:45). Since the ninth century, this Sunday is a historical feast commemorating the return of the icons to the churches in the year 843 after the heresy of iconoclasm was overcome The spiritual theme of the day is first of all the victory of the True Faith. In preparation for this Sunday, the ECF children at St. Gregory prepared their personal icons which were blessed at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy on March 10. For all of us this Sunday of Orthodoxy is a reminder, that we are called during this Lenten season to recover-restore within us the image of what it means to be an authentic human being, a genuine person created in the image and likeness of God. n
Father Alex Wroblicky, Father Valerian Michlik Photos by Jennifer Kehm
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st. michael in campbell, ohio
Reflections
Junk removal
From St. Michael in Campbell Ohio’s Facebook page at www. facebook.com/st.michaelsbyz.campbell/. Father Kevin Marks is pastor. Posted on March 11: Inside the special Easter Egg on the First Sunday of the Great Fast was a mirror. The mirror reminds us that we look like God since we are made in His image and likeness. Therefore, we are called to holiness and saintly lives. On the 'Road To Easter' let us not look in the mirror and mask ourselves, but rather reflect who we look like, namely God himself. Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving during Lent all help us be the person we were made to be! n
From St. Michael in Campbell Ohio’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/st.michaelsbyz.campbell/. Father Kevin Marks is pastor. Posted on March 17: Inside the special Easter Egg on the Second Sunday of the Great Fast was a lint roller. During Lent, we are called to remove or roll off the junk that sticks to us. Two pieces of junk that may stick to us is swearing and gossiping. Gossiping is especially harmful because we stick that junk on others. This leads to our own heart being full of bitterness, insecurity, jealously, frustration, envy and wickedness. By control of our mind, heart, MOUTH, attitude, and choices, our heart can be full of joy, peace, love, mercy, and forgiveness. Discipline for ourselves is the key which then leads into being a good, honest, and humble disciple of our Lord Jesus. Ask yourself, "What junk do I need to remove off myself?" n
Helping hands From St. Michael in Campbell Ohio’s Facebook page at www. facebook.com/st.michaelsbyz.campbell/. Father Kevin Marks is pastor. Posted on March 6: Last evening, March 5, our parish youth presented their fundraising check to Akron Children's Hospital in the amount of $700! Way to go! n
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eternal memory
sister martha elizabeth moyta Swiftly and unexpectedly, Sister Martha Elizabeth Moyta (formerly Sister Jerome) was taken to her heavenly home in the early evening of March 11. She had just attended the Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts, but did not show up for supper. Someone went to check on her, and it was evident that the Lord called her to Himself. How blessed for her to appear at the heavenly gates fortified by the Eucharist and the Holy Anointing! Sister Martha was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., the only daughter of the late John and Elizabeth (Tirpak) Moyta. She entered the Sisters of St. Basil in Uniontown, Pa. on August 1, 1945 from Holy Ghost Byzantine Catholic Church on Pittsburgh’s Northside. Sister Martha made her Final Profession of Vows on August 28, 1953 in the presence of the late Bishop Daniel Ivancho. With her 26 years of teaching experience, she became a member of the organizing team for the Religious Education Office in the Pittsburgh Archeparchy. In this capacity, Sister Martha was a contributor to the God With Us Series for the Eastern Christian Formation program. Both working on the Series and giving workshops were part of Sister Martha’s expertise.
After serving in the Pittsburgh Archeparchy, Sister Martha then took these same talents to the Eparchy of Parma where she served for six years before moving into Pastoral Ministry at St. Therese Church in St. Petersburg, Fla. Following 17 years of ministry there, Sister Martha returned to the monastery where she was fondly referred to as “Mother Martha.” Even though her years of active ministry ended, Sister Martha was always ready to help in any way she could, and in this, she was a true Martha. Visitors to the Gift Shop where she helped part-time could be sure of a warm welcome from her. Probably her best-loved ministry was to prepare and coordinate lodging on the grounds for the Annual Pilgrimage. For her this was a labor of love and a way to honor Our Mother of Perpetual Help by graciously welcoming the pilgrims. Adding a touch of beauty to the simple accommodations was her hallmark, both there and in the monastery. In hearing about her passing, one of the Sisters noted, “Heaven will now be decorated, cleaned and rearranged.” In addition to all the ministries that were part of her religious life, Sister Martha added her own special ministry of
keeping in touch. She was always thinking of others during her life, and the presence of so many relatives and friends at her funeral gave witness to this fact. In his homily, Archbishop William Skurla referred to the Gospel about the raising of Lazarus, which Sister Martha requested be read at her funeral. One of the most powerful stories in the New Testament, and focusing first on Martha and Mary, it was evident why this was her choice. As noted in the Gospel, Martha was often busy about many things. However, in the end, she left her “busyness” and led Jesus to her brother’s grave, where she learned first-hand the truth of Jesus’ proclamation, “I am the Resurrection and the Life.” As we celebrate Sister Martha’s life, we know that she, too, has left her “busyness” and now enjoys first-hand the truth of the Resurrection. Sister Martha Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Nicholas, John, Edward and Daniel. In addition to her Sisters in community, she is survived by her devoted nieces and nephews and their families. Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich celebrated the Parastas Service on March 15. Concelebrants were Rev.
Sister Martha Elizabeth Moyta
Jerome Botsko, Monastery Chaplain; Archpriest John S. Kachuba; and Rev. Robert Karl. In attendance were Archpriest John G. Petro and Very Rev. Ronald P. Larko. The Funeral Divine Liturgy was celebrated on March 16 by Archbishop William. Concelebrants were Rev. Jerome Botsko, Monastery Chaplain; Archpriest John S. Kachuba, and Rev. Robert Karl; Very Rev. Ronald Larko served as Master of Ceremonies. In attendance were Archpriest John G. Petro, Very Rev. Robert Pipta, and Rev. Stephen J. Wahal. May God grant to his handmaiden, Sister Martha Elizabeth, eternal memory and peaceful repose. n
News from the Vatican Worn marble steps of Holy Stairs to be uncovered for public to climb “it’s an extraordinary occasion to touch the same steps as jesus...” by Cindy Glatz Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY — For the first time in 300 years, the marble steps of the Holy Stairs will be free from the thick wooden panels installed in 1723 to protect the stairs and left uncovered for the public. For at least 40 days, people will be able to touch and climb the bare stones that, according to tradition, are the ones Jesus climbed when Pontius Pilate brought him before the crowd and handed him over to be crucified. The soon-to-be cleaned steps and newly restored frescoed stairway will be unveiled April 11, the week before Holy Week, during a special blessing ceremony at the Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs. The marble steps were going to be left open to the public temporarily before the original and restored wooden panels would be put back on.
The decision was made during one of the final phases of the sanctuary's restoration -a 20-year-long project overseen by the Vatican Museums and funded with the help of private donors, foundations and the Patrons of the Arts in the Vatican Museums. Paolo Violini, the Vatican Museums' head fresco restorer, and his team were so astonished and moved when they saw the degree to which the stone steps had been worn away, he felt this hidden testimony of faith had to be seen and experienced -- even just temporarily -- by today's faithful. "It's an extraordinary occasion to touch the same steps as Jesus and witness the faith of all the other people who came before us," the sanctuary's rector, Passionist Father Francesco Guerra, told Catholic News Service March 15. "And it is a concrete way to become linked with those who
came before us in history and the faith, who passed on the faith to us," he said. Tradition holds that St. Helen, mother of the Emperor Constantine, brought the stairs to Rome from Jerusalem in 326 A.D. The sanctuary, whose walls and ceilings are covered with newly restored decorative paintings and frescoes depicting Christ's passion and events of the Old Testament, was built specifically for the stairs to be venerated by the public in the late 1580s, by order of Pope Sixtus V. Since then, millions of people climbed the steps on their knees, slowly and unintentionally digging deep undulating ruts and furrows into the soft stone. One of the 28 steps was so worn away by people's shoe tips, a hole had been bored straight through the thick slab of stone. That happened, Violini said,
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Notes from pilgrims are seen as workers remove a wooden covering over the Holy Stairs at the Pontifical Sancuary of the Holy Stairs in Rome March 15. Pilgrims will have the opportunity to climb the bare marble stairs for at least a month after an April 11 unveiling of the renovated sanctuary. Photo by Paul Haring/ Catholic News Service.
because that was the step where pilgrims lingered longer, to lean down and kiss "the most important step" above, which is cracked down the middle and adorned with a metal cross and a raised metal grate. According to tradition, Jesus fell at the 11th step, cracking it with his knee. The cross marks the Story continued on page 13
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report from the
Byzantine Catholic Serra Club
Surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses” by Kathe Kress Byzantine Catholic Serra Club
On March 2, the Saturday of All Holy Ascetical Fathers and Mothers, 27 Serrans and guests gathered for a pre-Lenten prayerful pilgrimage to St. Anthony’s Chapel, in Pittsburgh’s Troy Hill neighborhood. St. Anthony houses 5,000 religious relics colelcted by Father Suitbert Mollinger (1828 to 1892). The morning opened with the Prayer of the Third Hour led by Very Rev. Andrew J. Deskevich, Protosyncellus of the Archeparchy and Father Valerian Michlik, Serra Chaplain. For the benefit of guests, Bill Kress, President, explained the Serra Club’s mission and activities that support it. The group was awestruck as they were guided by Stephen Sawczak, whose knowledgeable presentation was as impressive as the countless relics that rose from floor to ceiling of the chapel. Sawczak is a parishioner at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Sawczak began by explaining the three classes of relics: First-class: Remains from the body of a saint (such as a bone fragment) as well as items directly associated with events of Christ’s life and Passion (such as a piece of the true cross). Second-class: An item used or owned by a saint (such as a possession or fragment of clothing). Third-class: An item (such as a piece of cloth) that has been touched to a first- or second-class relic. Often, a thirdclass relic is affixed to a prayer card or medal associated with a particular saint. The body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and so we hold relics in reverence. Beneath the Main Altar, the full skeletal bones of St. Demetrius repose. Four pillars flanking the altar are based and topped by relics of saints who were crowned heads of Europe esteemed by Father Mollinger, among them, from top left to right, St. Margaret of Scotland; St. Wenceslas, Duke of Bohemia; St. Sigismund of Burgun-
dy; and St. Casimir of Poland. The column base reliquaries, from left to right, contain relics of St. Stephen of Hungary; St. Louis IX of France; St. Henry II, King of Germany; and Holy Roman Emperor and King Edward the Confessor of England. Located in the left transept of the chapel is a reliquary containing about 700 relics. A large cross in the center holds a splinter of the True Cross, a thorn from the Crown of Thorns, and a piece of the stone from the Holy Sepulcher. When shown a close-up image of the thorn, the group was amazed by its length and mistook it for a bone. Such a thorn would truly pierce Our Savior’s Head. The familiar face of Our Lady of Perpetual Help gazes down from the right transept above the side altar. It is a beautiful copy of the miraculous picture which is preserved in the Church of St. Alphonsus in Rome. It is certificated and the bottom of the certificate has an added note: “Blessed by Pope Leo XIII.” A relic of Protomartyr St. Stephen is among the oldest in the chapel. Another is St. Dismas, the Good Thief. All of the relics are catalogued, and chapel guides can look them up to find their location for visitors. St. Anthony’s was built in 12 years by Father Suitbert Godfrey Mollinger to house the collection of just over 5,000 relics rescued from war-torn European countries during the 19th century. Father Mollinger was born into a wealthy noble family in the Kingdom of Belgium. His family wealth enabled him to send agents to Europe to bring the relics to the relative safety of the United States. The newer forepart of the chapel houses one of two lifesized wooden carved Stations of the Cross in the U.S., the other being in St. Patrick’s in Erie. Pa. The pain and agony expressed in the faces of Christ, Mary, Mary Magdalene and the Apostle John are all too vivid and real. The stations were imported from Munich. On the day of dedication of this addition, Father Mollinger
St. Anthony’s Chapel in Troy Hill, Pa.
collapsed. He died two days later.Father Mollinger was educated in Amsterdam and studied medicine in Naples, Rome, and Genoa, prior to attending seminary in Ghent. During his time at Ghent, he became acquainted with an American bishop in search of missionary volunteers to the Americas. He set sail for America where his seminary education was completed at St. Vincent in Latrobe, Pa. He was ordained and served in various places, but returned to the Pittsburgh area where he was assigned as pastor of Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish on Troy Hill. Father Mollinger’s first calling was to heal, and so he studied medicine. But as he grew into his priestly vocation, he found his first call was to heal as the apostles did, for Jesus said, "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do ... And he will do even greater works than these, because I am going to the
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Father” (John 14:12–14). In addition to his pastoral duties, Father Mollinger would often tend to the physical needs and ailments of 100 to 150 people each day. He held healing Masses on the feasts of St. Anthony (June 13) and Corpus Christi (60 days after Easter). During these services, he blessed the pilgrims with relics and anointed them with oil. Healings and miracles did occur and are recorded. Depending on the given year, 10,000 to 15,000 pilgrims from across North America and beyond would attend! Can you imagine this many people flooding Troy Hill? The story of this spiritual gem crowning Troy Hill has only begun to be told here. For more information and inquiries about your pilgrimage, call 412-999-4401 or visit the Chapel’s website (https://saintanthonyschapel.org). You will find a welcome there. n
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the byzantine catholic world feature story
Breaking bread continued from page 1 had just done in the kitchen.” Patricia also bakes the Prosphora for her church in New Jersey. “It was very relaxing. Coming from the city, from New York, with everything that living in a big city entails, it was a very good stress relief, working the dough and then sitting in the chapel. No phone, no television, no distractions, just the bread and you and the Lord.” n
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Holy Stairs continued from page 11
point of impact, Violini said, and the open grate covers what was said to have been a spatter of his blood. A worker stuck his finger through the grate to scoop out some debris and show just how much stone had been rubbed away by centuries of people touching the spot. A cross also marks another step at the top of the staircase, indicating where, tradition said, had been another drop of blood. Up until now, people had only been able to see -- not touch -these areas through small glass panels in the wooden treads. A few steps were still being uncovered March 15. Two workers chipped away some pieces of brick along the staircase walls to free the rusty metal hooks securing the 300-yearold walnut wood treads in place. Handwritten notes, holy cards, colored photographs, small coins, buttons and mounds of black dust spilled out from under the heavy plank, which was peppered with woodworm holes and stuck with wisps of spider silk. Workers carefully bagged the written prayer requests and mementos, which had been stuck into the open slats in the stair risers. They were to be given to the Passionist Fathers in charge of the sanctuary for cataloging and study. The objects date back to no earlier than the 1950s, Violini said, which has led the restorers to believe the stairs had probably been cleaned for the Jubilee Year of 1950. Mei Wen, a member of the Vatican Museums' Patrons of the Arts, came from her home in Perth, Australia, to see the steps being revealed. She told CNS she became a major donor to the stairs' restoration after first climbing them in 2013. "That year what we prayed for and reflected on sort of came true so, because of that, I made a commitment that I should donate to the restoration of this project, for the faithful who want to climb the stairs for whatever reasons, for spiritual or family reasons.” Restoring such "a special place," she said, "is also for the art and the history of it." She said she was moved by seeing and touching the mementos and grooves in the marble "made by people climbing on their knees. It's very real and it's history made centuries ago, how could you not feel something?" n
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thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras
the hymn of victory The Hymn of Victory is what the Roman Liturgy calls the Sanctus, the Latin word for “Holy.” This hymn begins, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Hosts, heaven and earth are full of your glory, hosanna in the highest!” This hymn connects our earthly Liturgy with the heavenly worship, where the angels surround the throne of God, “singing, shouting, crying aloud and saying” forever, that God is “Holy, holy, holy” (Isaiah 6:1-3). The acclamation of the priest introducing the Hymn of Victory "singing, shouting, crying out and saying," is from the vision of angels that the prophet Ezechial (1:10) had of four living creatures: the man (saying), the lion (shouting), the ox (crying out), the eagle (singing). Whatever their origins, and however we think of them today, angels have a key role in the Liturgy. Our Liturgy on earth is mystically a representation of the heavenly angelic liturgy. Angels appear at the beginning of the Liturgy, when the celebrants make the first entrance. The priest prays, “O Lord, our Master and God, who in heaven established orders and armies of angels and archangels for the service of your glory, make this our entrance to be an entrance of holy angels, con-celebrating with us and with us glorifying your goodness." At the Great Entrance, we again sing, "Let us, who mystically represent the Cherubim, and sing the thrice-holy hymn (trisagion) to the life-creating Trinity, now
set aside all earthly cares that we may welcome the King of all." The difficulty for us today is that we have a hard time connecting symbol and reality. As many other aspects of the liturgy, the angels have both a symbolic and real role. Obviously, our conceptions of the angels are symbolic, and, so we are tempted to conclude that since symbols cannot be real, angels are not really present.
...Our worship is equal in dignity to the heavenly worship. Angels and humans commingle, and “we represent the Cherubim.” However, the symbolism (the Greek word “symbol” means “what is thrown together, here, the reality and its spiritual meaning) points to something that is very real: the Liturgy unites us with spiritual glorification. If the liturgy were just for this world, it would be a hopeless exercise; it could not possibly deliver what it promises. It would be an empty promise, and meaningless words and gestures. And because it is difficult for people to think in real and symbol together, the liturgy does become meaningless for them. If the liturgy were simply a heavenly reality, with no relationship to our lives on earth and justice among peoples and nations, then it would also be meaningless, a flight
from reality, a haven from the turmoil of the world. That is exactly what it is for many members of our congregations. Angels are the connection, or, to put it better, the real symbol of the connection. Our concept of angels may be symbolic, but it makes real, i.e., in concrete experience, the abstract idea of the union of earthly and heavenly realities that gives the liturgy its force to actually and truly change human life. The presence of angels may also be a symbol of the presence of God. After the ascension of our Lord, the eternal reality is Jesus at the right hand of the Father interceding for us. Jesus is alone the eternal High Priest. Since, from Scripture, we see that the angels surround the throne of God constantly, proclaiming his holiness, if Christ is truly present among us now, then the angels are truly just as present. The further conclusion is, of course, that our worship is equal in dignity to the heavenly worship. Angels and human commingle, and "we represent the Cherubim." The conclusion of the real presence of Christ is inescapable. This is why “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord,” is added to the Hymn of Victory. The ascension to Jerusalem by Jesus was an affirmation of his divinity, and it is only fitting that he be accompanied by armies of angels. The gospels do not mention angels on Palm Sunday, it is the Liturgy which makes this necessary connection. Angels are in the background in Jesus' passion. When he is arrested, he replies, "Do you think that I cannot call upon my Father and he will not provide me at
this moment with more than twelve legions of angels?" (Matthew 26:53). In an ancient text added to the Gospel of St. Luke, at the agony in the garden of Gethsemane, we read, "to strengthen him an angel from heaven appeared to him" (Luke 22:43). And, of course, it is angels who announce the resurrection. If they were present at the cross, and if the Liturgy is the commemoration of the passion, then the angels are present here. This also tells us that the real presence of Christ in the eucharist is not a static, but a dynamic presence of salvation. This is the presence that attracted as a act of piety, the private recitation of a troparion from the Resurrection Canon 4, to the liturgy preparation: "When your body was in the tomb, and your soul in hell, when you were in paradise with the thief, you were at the same time - O Christ, as God, upon your throne with the Father and the Spirit, infinite and filling all things." In our now time, the passion is in the past, but Christ is enthroned with the Father and the past is truly as present now as well as the future. The angels, therefore, symbolize eternity and freedom from all temporal and spatial bonds. Perhaps, it can be stated this way: if they did not exist, we would have to invent them to explain the liturgy. The future reality is made more explicit in some Eastern liturgies, which add to the “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord,” the words "who comes and who will come in the name of the Lord." n
BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY View Liturgical Services (various times) streamed LIVE online at:
St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa. www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com
Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa. www.holyghost-byzantinecatholic.org
St. John Chrysostom Church, Pittsburgh, Pa. www.sjcbcc.com St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa. www.facebook.com/stgregoryusc
St. Elias, Munhall, Pa. St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio www.facebook.com/ www.facebook.com/st.michaelsbyz.campbell St-Elias-Byzantine-Catholic-Church-157868411675213
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mount st. macrina in uniontown, pa.
In like a lion...
the sisters of st. basil the great stay busy in march From The Sisters of St. Basil the Great’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sistersofstbasil.uniontown, posted on March 24:
On March 17, Sr. Barbara Jean presented at the Day of Reflection at St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church in Clinton Township, Michigan, #SistersofStBasil #MtStMacrina #UniontownPA n
From The Sisters of St. Basil the Great’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sistersofstbasil.uniontown, posted on March 11: The Sisters of St. Basil are commemorating National Catholic Sisters' Week with a display and information about
religious life at Mount Macrina Manor. Pictured are the Sisters who serve in pastoral care at the Manor, Sister Theresa, Sister Agnes and Sister Petronilla. The celebration is March 8-14 each year. Please remember Sisters this week in your prayers and thanksgivings. n
Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick
Easter cards available
A Lenten prayer
Easter Cards are now in stock in our Card Department at the Religious Gift Shop. To order, download the brochure and order form at www.sistersofstbasil.org. n
O Lord and Master of my life, keep from me the spirit of indifference and discouragement, lust of power and idle chatter. Instead, grant to me, Your servant, the spirit of wholeness of being, humble-mindedness, patience, and love. O Lord and King, grant me the grace to be aware of my sins and not to judge my brothers and sisters; for You are blessed, now and ever and forever. Amen. the byzantine catholic world
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liturgical schedule at the Seminary “Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord”
around the archeparchy 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. April 5 and 12. Handmade, fully cooked, made fresh and ready to eat. Potato, sauerkraut and cheese. LENTEN KITCHEN — 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Fridays to April 12, St. Elias, 4200 Homestead-Duquesne Road, Munhall, Pa. Menu includes fried or baked fish sandwich, fried or baked fish dinner, shrimp dinner, pirohi, haluski, macaroni and cheese, French fries, cole slaw, soda, bottled water, csoroge and bake sale. No charge for coffee and tea. Patrons can eat in or take out. PIROHI SALE — Noon-4 p.m. Fridays during Lent (excluding Good Friday) starting March 8, St. Pius X, 2336 Brownsville Road, Carrick, Pa. Pirohi includes: potato/cheese, sweet cabbage, cottage cheese and sauerkraut. Prices start at $8. Haluska also for sale. Eat in or take out; frozen or cooked. To pre-order or for information, call 412-881-8344.
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 412-321-8383 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 April: 1 2 3 4
9 a.m. Midday Office (R) 7 a.m. Sixth Hour (R) 7 a.m. Midday Office (R) 5 p.m. Presanctified Divine Liturgy (R) 8 p.m. Small Compline (R) 7 a.m. Matins (R) with Great Canon of St. Andrew 8 p.m. Great Compline (R) 5 to 7 No services 8 9 a.m. Midday Office (R) 9 7 a.m. First Hour (R) 10 7 a.m. Midday Office (R) 5 p.m. Presanctified Divine Liturgy (R) 8 p.m. Great Compline (M) 11 4 p.m. Ninth Hour (R) 8 p.m. Great Compline (R) 12 7 a.m. Orthros (M) 4 p.m. Presanctified Divine Liturgy (M) 13 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 5 p.m. Great Vespers (R) 14 7 a.m. Festal Matins (R) Palm Sunday 5 p.m. Vespers (R) 15 9 a.m. Bridegroom Matins (R) Holy Week 16 to 28 No services 29 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 30 7 a.m. Parastas (R) Radonitsa - Day of Rejoicing (M) Melkite
LITURGY OF THE PRESANCTIFIED GIFTS — Noon Wednesdays during the Great Fast, St. Pius X, 2336 Brownsville Road, Carrick, Pa. Monsignor Russell A. Duker is administrator. Accessible by bus on the 51 Carrick and the 51L Carrick Limited. All are welcome to come and pray this Great Fast service with us! 14TH EGG EGGSTRAVAGANZA — Noon-5 p.m. April 7, St. John Byzantine Catholic Church Social Hall, 201 E. Main St., Uniontown, Pa. Egg artists display, demonstrate, and sell decorated eggs. Easter items (embroidered basket covers, lamb butter molds, decorated candles) and crafts for purchase. Children’s Easter theme activities, explanation of traditional Easter foods for basket blessing, Lenten lunch menu, baked goods (including long rolls and more), workshop on making pysanky, raffles and basket raffles and door prizes. No charge for admission. Handicapped accessible. For information, call 724-438-6027 (9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday to Friday, leave message). SPAGHETTI DINNER — Noon-3 p.m. April 14, St. Michael, 463 Robinson Road, Campbell, Ohio. Cost: $10, adults; $4, ages 10 and under. Spaghetti and meatballs, wedding soup, salad bar and dessert. Raffles. Eat in or take out. For information, call 330-755-4831. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET — 9 a.m.-1 p.m. April 14, St. Mary’s Center, Route 981, Trauger. Cost: $6, adults; $3, ages 5 to 10. No charge for ages 4 and under. Sponsored by St. Mary’s Youth Group. SPAGHETTI DINNER —1-6 p.m. April 27, SS. Peter and Paul, 701 Foster Ave., Duquesne, Pa. Cost: $9, adults; $5, ages 10 and under. No charge ages 5 and under. The afternoon will include raffles and an auction. NANTY GLO PARISH CENTENNIAL — St. Nicholas of Myra, 1191 Second St., Nanty Glo, Pa. will celebrate its 100th anniversary on May 19 with a hierarchial Divine Liturgy to be celebrated by Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla, followed by a Centennial dinner. Former parishioners and friends of the parish are welcome. Contact Father Robert F. Oravetz for reservations. Deadline is April 28. SUPER SATURDAY SALE — 9 a.m.-3 p.m. May 4, St. Pius X, 2336 Brownsville Road, Carrick, Pa. Craft, vendor and flea market. Food will be served throughout the day. There will also be a bake sale and Chinese auction.
(R) Ruthenian
dates to remember APRIL 14 Palm Sunday — Entrance of our Lord into Jersusalem APRIL 15 to 20 Holy Week CHANCERY CLOSED April 18 to 19 APRIL 18 Seventh anniversary of Archbishop William’s Enthronement APRIL 19 Great and Holy Friday APRIL 20 Archbishop William with other Christian leaders bless the City of Pittsburgh from Mount Washington APRIL 21 Pascha —The Glorious Feast of the Resurrection of Our Lord APRIL 22 Bright Monday CHANCERY CLOSED APRIL 24 18th anniversary of the Falling asleep in the Lord of Metropolitan Archbishop Judson M. Procyk See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org
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next issue: PASCHA 2019
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