THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHEPARCHY OF PITTSBURGH
christmas schedule
Inside
Services at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Page 2
VOL. 64 NO. 13
secret of a long, healthy life
Helen Bauman celebrates her 100th birthday at SS. Peter and Paul in Erie, Pa. Page 11
Thank you veterans receive blessing at cathedral of st. john the baptist
DECEMBER 2019
year in review A look back at 2019 Pages 12 to 13
Openness to God’s will sixteen men visit seminary for “come and see” weekend by Benjamin Cafeo St. Mary, Windber, Pa.
packet of materials on the God With Us curriculum. Chris Singel, MAT gave a PowerPoint presentation on resources that can deepen the faith of Byzantine Catholics. He is a member of the board of directors of the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius. Chris is a Financial Software Support Specialist for Harris School Solutions. He and his wife Amanda have been presenters at the Pre-Cana Program since 2012. The conference concluded with six participants sharing insights on how their parish is trying to grow closer to Christ and serve the church.
Sixteen men came from all over the United States Nov. 1 to 3 to visit the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius in Pittsburgh for a discernment retreat accurately titled “Come and See.” The idea behind the weekend was to help retreatants prayerfully discern God’s calling by living with the seminarians and getting a taste of the experience of seminary life. Retreatants came from the four Ruthenian eparchies — Pittsburgh, Passaic, Parma, and Phoenix — and the Melkite Eparchy of Newton. I was one of the men to attend this great weekend of prayer and fraternity. Prayer formed the structure of the retreat with beautiful liturgical services, including Vespers, Compline, Festal Matins, Divine Liturgies, and 9th Hour, led by Fathers Will Rupp, Robert Pipta, and Joel Barstad. There were also short classes and talks led by various instructors who teach at the seminary, by spiritual directors of seminarians, and by the seminarians themselves. Fraternity was also a significant part of the weekend. The seminarians were each assigned retreatants in order to mentor them. This provided for some very good spiritual conversations on discernment and life in general. Very enjoyable was an ice cream social where we and the seminarians were able to talk, play games, and have genuine human interaction, which is something we do not get a lot
Story continued on page 2
Story continued on page 3
Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich (left) blessed military veterans who were in attendance while thanking each for their service to our nation following the Nov. 9 Divine Liturgy at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. Photo by Nick Havrilla Sr.
“The Journey to Emmaus Continued” byzantine spirituality conference welcomes eparchial bishop of newton by Sister Marion Dobos, OSB Director, Office of Religious Education
The annual Byzantine Spirituality Conference, sponsored by the Office of Religious Education, was held Nov. 9 at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. The title of this year’s conference was “The Journey to Emmaus Continued.” Most Rev. Nicholas J. Samra, Eparchial Bishop of Newton, gave two outstanding presentations on the importance of education and formation in understanding our baptismal call. He encouraged the participants to recognize and share their gifts in building up the Body of Christ. Bishop Nicholas was ordained
a priest in May 1970, and became a bishop in July 1989. Since that time as an energetic priest and bishop, cooperating with the grace of Christ and the Holy Spirit, he has built churches, started new missions, ordained many priests, written books and articles, traveled to visit parishes, given conferences, and attended synods. In asking the question “What should we be doing in our parishes?” Bishop Nicholas reminded the participants our mission statement can be found in the Acts of the Apostles. Breakout sessions took place in the afternoon. Sister Marion Dobos, OSB, MA, Director of Religious Education for the Archeparchy, distributed and explained a
PAGE 2
DECEMBER 2019
Spirituality Conference
UPS 081500 ISSN 07442289
continued from page 1
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 Deacon Robert J. Shalhoub 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
The questions are included in this article for those who were not able to attend. The two presentations given by Bishop Nicholas can be viewed on the Archeparchy’s website, www. archpitt.org. n Name one idea or suggestion from this conference that would work in your parish. Name one that would not work and why. n What steps are your parish taking in reaching out to members who no longer attend? If no steps are taken, what would you recommend? n Give some examples how all four eparchies — Pittsburgh, Parma, Passaic and Phoenix — could collaborate more with each other. n How many generations are in your Sunday mix? Do you agree with the statement “Many generations is a blessing. One is deadly.” n Finish this statement: “Our parish connects with the local community by _________.” n What suggestions might you offer for your parish, deanery and Archeparchy to work toward collaborating more to continue the rich legacy of the Byzantine Catholic Church in the United States? n
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Schedule of Services - Christmas 2019 Very Reverend Andrew Deskevich, Rector
Tuesday, Dec. 24 — Vigil, Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord - Christmas Eve 9 a.m. 7:30 p.m. 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 25 — Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord — Christmas Day 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy
Thursday, Dec. 26 — Commemorating the Theotokos and Joseph 7 p.m. 9 a.m.
The Byzantine Catholic World is a member of the Catholic Press Association.
Most Rev. Nicholas J. Samra, Eparchial Bishop of Newton,
The mission of The Byzantine
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 Chris Singel
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.
Divine Liturgy
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist 210 Greentree Road | Munhall, Pa. 15120 | 412-461-0944
Submissions deadline: 15th of the month prior to the month of publication.
of life; to offer spiritual
Divine Liturgy
Friday, Dec. 27 — Feast of St. Stephen
Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for address changes to take effect.
mission
Royal Hours Compline with Carols Divine Liturgy
Sister Marion Dobos, OSB
the byzantine catholic world
View services LIVE on the web at www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com
DECEMBER 2019
PAGE 3
“Come and See” 2019 continued from page 1
Bulletin Board
Mount Macrina Manor Live Nativity
of in today’s tech world. I particularly appreciated a long conversation with the seminary’s head cantor, where we talked about Byzantine musical melodies for almost an hour. One of the rules for the weekend was “phones off,” which strongly encouraged us to interact with each other and be able to focus on God during times of silence. This weekend was a powerful one in my life. Discerning God’s will is important for me; I have been praying in front of my icon corner at home and at the Divine Liturgy asking for a clearer understanding of His will for me for quite some time, and attending this weekend was a significant part of my continuing discernment. With the meditative prayer, disconnection from the world, and the fraternity of men in discernment and formation, it really helped all of us to focus on God’s plan and hear Him more clearly. I do not yet know fully if God is calling me to be a priest, but this weekend was a very good aid in teaching me how to listen more diligently and peacefully for the voice of His call. n
Mount Macrina Manor’s annual drive-through Live Nativity will be held 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 15 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 Anchor Fellowship Church will sing Christmas carols. Angels will pass out candy canes to visitors. Five hundred luminaries will line the driveway leading to the Nativity. No charge. For information, call Mary at 724-430-1021. n
“Carpathian Cookery” cook book available
Seminarian Riley Winstead delivers a witness talk on discernment and internal struggle.
the byzantine catholic world
The “Carpathian Cookery” cookbook has entered its 18th printing and is now available for purchase. “Carpathian Cookery” has a new look and features a protective plastic cover. It includes sections on Christmas and Easter customs and recipes, traditional Rusyn and Slavic foods, other ethnic dishes, and many other tried-and-true recipes of parishioners of St. John the Baptist in Uniontown, Pa. 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, as well as the Pre-Christmas Fast. Having sold more than 17,000 copies, the 330-page cook book was requested by the Library of Congress to be in their ethnic cooking collection. The cost of the cookbook is $14 plus $4 postage and handling ($18 total). 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, or call 724-438-6027 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday to Friday. The email address is carpathiancookery@ gmail.com. n
PAGE 4
DECEMBER 2019
Spreading the Word ruthenian byzantine catholic mission forms in north carolina area by Bonnie Burke Ruthenian Byzantine Catholic Mission, Greater Charlotte, N.C.
A Ruthenian Byzantine Catholic Mission has formed in the Greater Charlotte, N.C. area. The Divine Liturgy is celebrated every Saturday at 4 p.m. by Father Steven Galuschik of All Saints Byzantine Church in Ft. Myers, Fla. and Bi-Ritual Deacon Ron Volek.
The community gathers at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church, 292 Munn Road, East, Fort Mill, S.C. in the Ministry Center across from the church. As you travel south on I-77, stop by and visit our welcoming mission. Visit us at www. carolinabyzantine.com for information and upcoming activities or call Ron Somich at 440-477-6389. n
In September, Father Steven Galuschik celebrated his fifth anniversary of Ordination. Father Steven flies every Saturday from Florida to celebrate the Divine Liturgy in the Greater Charlotte, N.C. area. The Byzantine Community joined together with a potluck dinner for this special occasion.
Seminary Library seeks cantor papers The library of the Byzantine Catholic Seminary is assembling a collection of music and papers from our cantors and choir directors since the founding of our church in the United States. These collections are being indexed and preserved so that that they can be used for research by scholars as well as for fostering our church singing in the future. If your parish or a retired cantor you know has music, memorabilia, or recordings which might have a place in this collection, contact Deacon Jeffrey Mierzejewski, 412-7351676 or mci@archpitt.org, or library director Sandra Collins,
Events at the House of Prayer 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 or email hpmsm@verizon.net.
412-321-8383 or scollins@bcs. edu. The Library also invites donations of materials from family and friends of our cantors who have reposed. This collection will serve as a permanent memorial to their labors. n
Deacon Jeffrey Mierzejewski
Christmas Preparation Retreat
Sacramental Healing In Mystery — Experience Healing in a Sacramental Church
9:15 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 14. "Light Conquering Darkness" presented by Sister Carol Petrasovich, OSBM. Offering of $35 includes lunch. Registration due Dec. 10.
9:30 a.m.- 3 p.m. Feb. 29, 2020. Presented by Father John Marcucci. Offering: $35 includes lunch. Registration due Feb. 24. Liturgy of the Eucharist and the Anointing of the Sick with validated Scriptural Presentations.
n
n
the byzantine catholic world
Lenten Bible Study n 9:30-11:30 a.m. Thursdays, March 5 to April 2, 2020. Presented by Sister Melita Marie, OSBM. Free will offering. Registration due Feb. 20. Bible Study sessions will develop Great Fast themes and include appropriate prayer of praise and petition. Bring your favorite Bible.
DECEMBER 2019
PAGE 5
reflection from mount st. macrina
Patience is proof of the gift of the Holy Spirit by Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick, OSBM Sisters of St. Basil the Great Mount St. Macrina, Uniontown, Pa.
Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick posts videos of her reflections each week at the Facebook of the Sisters of St. Basil the Great. View them at: https://www. facebook.com/sistersofstbasil. uniontown/. This is a transcript of her July 5 reflection and is Part 3 of her “Fruits of the Holy Spirit” series. Glory to Jesus Christ! Today I want to continue
talking about the Fruits of the Holy Spirit. We mentioned there are 12 of them in St. Paul’s writings: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, long-suffering, mildness or gentleness, faith, modesty, self-control and chastity. Today, our topic is “patience,” something we all find occasion to need. In our practice of the spiritual life, it’s certainly a contribution to our faithfulness in the Lord and to our love for one another. Patience is about bearing with one another and each other’s imperfections. There’s often somebody who irks us or who takes us the wrong way, or we
take them the wrong way. Patience, certainly, is a virtue and it’s a proof of the gift of the Holy Spirit. Worth praying for, indeed. One of the things I find really helpful with patience is the Jesus Prayer. Now, you might say I have to use it because I feel pretty desperate in putting up with somebody, but I also mean to use it because it bears within it the attitude of patience; patience with ourselves, patience with others, patience with our own imperfections and therefore, patience with the imperfections of other people. We are all sinners and the attitude of seeking God’s mercy
for all things can certainly help us. You know, we are all pretty well addicted to our own way of thinking, as Father Richard Rohr says. We want and we like our own way. So the Fruits of the Holy Spirit can help us to have that openness of heart toward one another and to bear the difficulties that might occur in patience with others. And, of course, to turn them into prayer for the other, prayer for our own self-mercy that we, indeed, need. God bless you. n
view from the little sisters of the poor
Give a gift of joy for Christmas by Sister Constance Veit, LSP Little Sisters of the Poor
I had just begun my initiation to religious life when a very kind Little Sister offered to share with me the secret to joy. Of course, I wanted to know the secret, I responded! JOY, she confided, is a matter of putting Jesus first, Other people second and Yourself last. Her advice made a lot of sense and, for me, it has mostly proven true. When we pay more attention to God and other people than to ourselves, the result is usually a deep and imperturbable sense of joy. Recently, someone suggested another acronym based on the word joy. JOY, I learned, can stand for Jesus, Old and Young people coming together. To express it in mathematical terms, Jesus + Old + Young = JOY! Pope Francis would love this equation, since he has often expressed his desire to see a new embrace between the old and the young. “The young are focused on the future and they face life with energy and dynamism,” Pope Francis wrote, adding that they are tempted to give little attention to their roots, especially the gifts transmitted to them by their parents, their grandparents and the society in which they live.
“Helping the young to discover the living richness of the past, to treasure its memory and to make use of it for their choices and opportunities, is a genuine act of love towards them,” Pope Francis suggested in Christus Vivit, the document he wrote after last year’s synod on young people. “A genuine act of love” — helping young people to treasure their roots is a beautiful gift we adults can give them — and there is no better time than Christmas to give this gift because the holidays naturally offer many opportunities to gather, reminisce and do things together! Don’t despair if the youngsters in your family seem unwilling to disconnect from their mobile devices in order to partake in your family’s cherished Christmas traditions or stories. A recent survey cited in the Wall Street Journal found that more than 90 percent of teenagers and young adults are able to retell family stories when asked, even if they seemed uninterested while the stories were being told. Young people absorb more from family stories than most adults think, especially if those stories are humorous or entertaining, or if they convey timeless life lessons. Such stories help the young to feel that they belong to a larger family or culture. Family stories help them to develop roots and a sense of identity, and they offer
guides and values for living. Another study found that children who were more aware of their family history were more resilient and experienced less anxiety. A third study found that when parents related personal stories describing negative experiences and how they were able to overcome them their children had better social and academic skills. In Christus Vivit, Pope Francis tells young people how important it is to be rooted in their family and cultural history. “It pains me to see young people sometimes being encouraged to build a future without roots, as if the world were just starting now,” he wrote. “It is impossible for us to grow unless we have strong roots to support us and to keep us firmly grounded. It is easy to drift off when there is nothing to clutch or hold onto.” Sue Shellenbarger, the Wall Street Journal author who cites the studies I’ve mentioned, offers suggestions for successful family storytelling: 1) think it through in advance and come up with a few meaningful, interesting stories to tell during holiday gatherings; 2) choose stories that are relevant to youngsters’ current lives and struggles; 3) keep stories light and entertaining; 4) reframe old stories to find new meaning in them; and 5) include the actors’ viewpoints and emotions in your narratives. I’ll add a suggestion of
the byzantine catholic world
my own: I’ve found that self-deprecating humor is endearing, especially with teens and young adults. I think it makes us more approachable and allows others to admit their vulnerability. Finally, as you prepare for family gatherings during the upcoming Christmas season, ask Our Lady of the Visitation to inspire you. During her own Advent, Mary visited her older cousin Elizabeth, who was also miraculously with child. While Mary brought Elizabeth the joy of Christ’s presence and helped her with household tasks, I am sure that Elizabeth offered Mary the gifts of a listening ear, encouragement, wise counsel and the affirmation of her special vocation. n Sister Constance Veit is director of communications for the Little Sisters of the Poor.
BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY
Sundays at 9:00 a.m. WEDO Radio 810 AM McKeesport, Pa. Broadcast live from Holy Ghost Church McKees Rocks, Pa.
OR via Internet: click “Listen Live” link at www.holyghostbyzantinecatholic.org
parish news PAGE 6
DECEMBER 2019
st. john the baptist in avella, pa.
Celebrating 100 years of faith by John Ihnat St. John the Baptist, Avella, Pa.
From the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains — the “Old Country” — to the land of plenty, jobs and food — the United States of America — our relatives, through faith, courage and endurance came to the Avella and Burgettstown area looking for a better life for their families. They had a need to worship God in their own Slavonic tongue. To worship God as a family. A group of immigrant families came together in 1916 to discuss forming and building a church. Three years later in 1919, after several attempts to build a church, property was purchased and a new church, St. John the Baptist began to rise. Coal strikes in 1927 crippled the area financially, but these immigrant families did not quit. One hundred years later, the parishioners of St. John did not quit and are still worshiping God on weekdays and Sundays The parishioners, led by their pastor, Father Vasyl Symyon, continue in prayer as their original founders. On May 31, a Divine Liturgy was celebrated in giving thanks
to Jesus Christ for all of the blessings given to all the former and current parishioners of St. Johns. The Liturgy was celebrated by His Eminence Archbishop William C. Skurla; Most Reverend Bishop Milan Šašik, Bishop The Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Mukachevo, Ukraine; Father Vasyl; and the following priests: Rev. Vasyl Banyk, Rev. Oleh Seremchuk, Rev. Vasyl Polyak, Rev. Radko Blichar, Rev. Vitalii Stashkevych, Rev. Vasyl Kadar, Rev. Ivan Rusyn, Very Rev. James A. Spontak, Rev. Vasyl Symyon, Rev. Robert F. Oravetz, Very Rev. Ronald P. Larko, Very Rev. Andrew J. Deskevich and Very Rev. Frank A. Firko. This was a beautiful celebration with joyous song. After the liturgy, a delicious meal was furnished in St. John's activity hall. During the meal, Father Vasyl gave a slide presentation beginning at the building of the existing church in 1961 until the present day. The parishioners of St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church would like to thank all those who attended this celebration. May God bless you all and grant you many happy and blessed years! n
the byzantine catholic world
DECEMBER 2019
parish news
continued
holy trinity in sykesville, pa.
st. nicholas in brownsville, pa.
Final touches
Annual bazaar
by Matthew Kosko Holy Trinity, Sykesville, Pa.
Parish members and Father Vasyl Banyk at Holy Trinity in Sykesville, Pa. put the final touches on a new cross for the cemetery. The new cross
replaces an older, out-dated cross. A big thank you to all of our parishioners who assisted with this project and thank you to everyone who contributes annually towards our beautiful cemetery. n
by Bernie Karoffa and Jean Mangini St. Nicholas, Brownsville, Pa.
St. Nicholas in Brownsville, Pa. held its annual bazaar on Oct. 20. So many dedicated and hardworking parishioners and friends helped to make this a very successful event. Organizers Becky Thomas and Jean Mangini were in charge of the food preparation with Melody Yeardie and daughter Jamie in charge of the Chinese Auction gift baskets. Michael Thomas and son, Michael, Dave Thearle and Denise Grzesiak worked the kitchen while Gary and Pam Gresh, Bernadette Smith, and Valerie Thomas took care of the long lines of the take-out counter. Lois Dirda and family and Steve Grzesiak were in charge of the bakery and games tables. Genevieve Marszal donated
st. mary in windber, pa.
Safety first by Douglas Ledney St. Mary, Windber, Pa.
With recent nation events and safety on places of worship being an emphasized, parishioners at Saint Mary in Windber, Pa. hosted a place of worship safety training Oct. 17. Rev. Ivan Rusyn is pastor. The safety program was open to all Saint Mary’s parishioners along with the entire Windber Area Ministerium. Experts from the area worked with participants to discuss important safety areas that affect everyone. The program was divided into three areas. The first part of the training was a Safety/ Active Shooter Discussion with Captain Chad Miller of the Johnstown Police Department. Secondly, Stop the Bleed, a first aid demonstration, was
presented by Geoff Shank, RN, EMT-P (flight nurse/paramedic) at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, Johnstown, Pa. Finally, Erika Brosig, Supervisor of Direct Services/ Keystone Crisis Intervention Team, Victim Services Inc., Johnstown, discussed what happens after the critical incident. How do we recover from the trauma that has occurred? Following each of the presentations, participants had an opportunity to ask questions to the expert panel. Participants were then treated to refreshments from the parishioners at Saint Mary. The church is planning to have future safety trainings on various topics. n
the byzantine catholic world
PAGE 7
and oversaw the "lottery tree.� The ladies and gentlemen serving the food did a terrific job as well as the cashiers, Marge Cramer and Jean Mangini. John Marcolini and Ron Phillips made sure the eating areas were cleaned and well-maintained. Ten roasters of haluski, 835 cabbage rolls, 351dozen pirohi, a roaster filled with sweet and hot sausage prepared by Barb Kasparek and family, a large pot of chicken soup donated by Becky Thomas, plus all the bakery completely sold out! Father Christopher Burke, pastor, would like to gratefully thank all the workers, the priests from other parishes,and all the patrons who supported this successful church fundraiser. Proceeds will go toward needed parish repairs. n
PAGE 8
parish news
continued
DECEMBER 2019
st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa.
Children’s Story Time
Trunk or Treat by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
After a couple of rainy days, we were blessed on Oct. 27, with good weather for this year’s Trunk or Treat at St. Gregory. Following the Divine Liturgy our children were ready to present their costumes to the faithful. Afterward, in the
church parking lot, parishioners were ready to hand out candy to all our trick-or-treaters. We continued in our church hall with games such as “Monster Musical Chairs,” “Mummy Wrap,” Candy Corn bowling and others. At the end of this event, each child received a pumpkin to take home and decorate. n
by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
On Oct. 31, “All Hallows' Eve,” Children’s Story Time took place in our Church hall. The children enjoyed listening to stories such as “The
Enormous Potato,” “Just Ask,” and “I'm a Frog.” Afterward, the children enjoyed creating their own Trick or Treat Bag. At the end of this event, the children had the opportunity to decorate their own pumpkin. n
Book Club meeting by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
Two sessions of our St. Gregory’s Book Club took place Oct. 23 in our parish library. Parishioners discussed “the
Tattooist of Auschwitz,” written by Heather Morris. We all had a lively discussion about this love story set amid the horrors of a Nazi death camp. n
Honoring Archangel Michael by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
On Friday evening, Nov. 8, members of federal, state, local law enforcement, and faithful gathered at St. Gregory to prayerfully remember the officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice while protecting community members and also to pray for those men and women who continue to serve us despite the
risks they face daily. As part of this prayerful event, the hymn to St. Michael was sung by all followed by a special blessing for the men and women of Law Enforcement. The hymn “Ave Maria” and “Battle Hymn of the Republic” was offered by a police officer, which was enjoyed by all. Following this prayerful event, we all enjoyed fellowship and refreshments in our Church hall. n
Stuffed Cabbage Dinner by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
Following the Divine Liturgy on Oct. 20, all was ready for this year’s Stuffed Cabbage Dinner. Three hundred “holubky” were
ready to be served for our ”Eat In” or “Take Out” dinners. Sincere thanks to our parishioners who prepared this dinner and our ByzanTeens who helped serve it. n
Photos by Jennifer Kehm
the byzantine catholic world
DECEMBER 2019
parish news
continued
PAGE 9
st. john the baptist cathedral in munhall, pa.
“Ladies Night Out” by Diane Pochron St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa.
The inaugural “Ladies Night Out” fundraiser was held at St. John’s Cathedral Social Center Nov. 16 with the purpose of raising money for a new roof. The theme of the event was Italian Bistro with an amazing pasta bar that was prepared by Father Andrew Deskevich and several men from our parish. The chair person was Diane Pochron, a lifelong member of the parish, along with many volunteers who helped to make this fundraiser a success. There were 11 vendors on site with an array of beautiful items for purchase. Also, throughout the evening were auction baskets which were donated by many individuals, a 50/50 raffle and door prizes and table prizes as well. We also were able to take advantage of our two jumbotrons that were used to advertise our many sponsors that evening This event could not have been successful if it wasn’t for all of the volunteers that dedicated their time and ideas to this wonderful event. n
St. John Cathedral School alumni
Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.
the byzantine catholic world
PAGE 10
parish news
st. john the baptist in scottdale, pa.
Annual spaghetti dinner St. John the Baptist in Scottdale, Pa. held its annual Spaghetti Dinner Oct. 23. The event was sponsored by the parish’s Altar Society. n
continued
DECEMBER 2019
Honoring veterans st. michael in campbell, ohio by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio
Happy Veterans Day! Thank you for your courage and heroism in serving our country. Our parish veterans received a blessing and gift at the Nov. 9 and 10 Divine Liturgies. n
st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa. by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
The weekend of Nov. 9 to 10 was dedicated to our St. Gregory’s veterans. Following the Ambon Prayer, our veterans came forward to receive a
special blessing and recognition for their service to our nation under God. Afterward, we continued with our celebration in the Church hall with fellowship and refreshments. n
Mike Lashinsky
st. michael in campbell, ohio
Serving with a smile by Keri Vokish St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio
Front: Betty Sapola, Shirley Rusinko. Back: JoAnn Suchko, Mike Lashinsky
On Nov. 16, our parish youth had the privilege to serve some very special people a warm meal and a smile. Words cannot describe this humbling opportunity. We left with full hearts and a real-life lesson about treating all people with love, dignity and respect.
Mae Rich, Mary Ann Zozula
the byzantine catholic world
We are so proud of all the children that volunteered. Thank you Mr. Barone and “Our Community Kitchen,” located in Youngstown, Ohio, for all you do for those in need. Please consider donating to or volunteering at this mission. “Give your hands to serve and your hearts to love.” — Saint Mother Teresa n
DECEMBER 2019
parish news
PAGE 11
continued
ss. peter & paul in erie, pa.
Secret of a long, healthy life by Rob Strain SS. Peter & Paul, Erie, Pa.
“Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life” Proverbs 16:31 Loved ones of Helen Bauman gathered Oct. 6, the eve of her 100th birthday, at SS. Peter and Paul in Erie, Pa. She had family and friends from South Carolina, Florida, New York, and Toronto all make the trip to be a part of this special day. Helen is beloved by all, and it was of most importance to celebrate this momentous occasion! One hundred people attended this event put on by our church family, the perfect number to celebrate 100 glorious and blessed years. There were plenty of laughs and memories shared amongst those who attended. A scrumptious lunch — consisting of a smörgåsbord of sandwiches and other appetizers — were enjoyed along with delicate cheesecakes at Helen’s request. Upon blowing our her birthday candle, Helen’s wish was to live 10 more years! At the end of the day, Helen told her niece. "I will remember this day for the rest of my life.” Helen is known for teaching and encouraging the faith of our church and ethnic roots.
With 100 years of experience, it’s no surprise the wisdom gained. When asked the age-old question of “What is the secret to a long and healthy life?,” Helen did not speak of the answers that one would imagine: a good diet, exercise, a healthy lifestyle. There was no long ancient tribal ritual, no sleight of hand trick up her sleeve, there was no magic potion revealed. On the contrary, the explanation was rather simple, and very much in plain sight. So much so, that it is often overlooked. Helen stated, in the bright and kind tone of her voice that all know and have come to expect from her, a very uncomplicated and humble explanation, “Honey, it’s three letters. G-O-D.” Helen has lived her life how He has had planned for her. He is in charge. For every rise and every challenge, it has been the path The Lord has put Helen on. All the loving memories, all the growing experiences, they have shaped Helen into the loving woman she is today and has been for the past 100 years. She has been the person that God has wished she would be, and she has been blessed with a life full of loved ones and long glorious success. n
Father John Mihalco, Helen Bauman
Helen Bauman
Petro Leshko, Helen Bauman and Nataliya Leshko. Helen met Petro and Nataliya during a trip to Europe and they currently reside in Toronto. Photos by Kathy Adams
st. mary assumption in new salem, pa.
Day of Recollection, Prayer by Bernie Karoffa St. Mary Assumption, New Salem, Pa.
A Day of Recollection and Prayer for the Philippian Fast was hosted Nov. 7 by St. Mary Assumption in New Salem, Pa. This event started with a Moleben to the Mother of God with Father Christopher Burke and Father Jerome Botsko as celebrants. Father Ronald Larko led the congregation in singing. Father Christopher gave an interesting talk on the Old Testament's Jewish characters and events that foreshadowed and compared the purpose and life of Mary and her son, Jesus Christ. Confessions were heard by Fathers Christopher and Jerome, Ronald and Leo Schlosser.
Participants from various area churches were invited to the church hall for a time of fellowship. Elaine Milan, Pat Krulock, Carolyn Tolnai and Marie Bentz prepared and served the delicious refreshments. A rosary gift was given to each in attendance. n
the byzantine catholic world
PAGE 12
parish news
continued
DECEMBER 2019
2019 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 2020, it’s important to take a look back to the previous 12 months. This year will forever be remembered as the 50th anniversary celebration of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Archeparchy of Pittsburgh. A Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was celebrated June 23 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa., which brought
together clergy, sisters, faithful and esteemed guest Leonardo Cardinal Sandri, Prefect of the Congregation for the Eastern Churches at the Vatican in Rome. There were pilgrimages close to home in Uniontown, Pa. and across the Atlantic Ocean to the Holy Land. And the annual Byzantine Catholic Day at Kennywood in West Mifflin, Pa. and “Faith and Fun Day” around Pittsburgh, Pa. left smiles on everyone’s faces. The staff of The Byzantine Catholic World wishes you a Joyous Christmas and a Blessed New Year! n
Feb. 3
March 8
The hall at St. Elias in Munhall, Pa. was packed for its first fish fry of the Lenten season. n
April 20
Snow day at Mount St. Macrina A snow storm turned Mount St. Macrina into a winter wonderland with bitter cold temperatures. n
Archbishop William Skurla and Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich celebrated Resurrection Matins and Divine Liturgy on Great and Holy Saturday April 20 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. n
Feb. 16
May 2
Nine partiicpants attended a bread baking retreat at the Sisters of St. Basil the Great’s House of Prayer on Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. Sister Carol Petrasovich, OSBM, led the group in baking loaves of Lenten bread. n
Four ordinations to minor orders were celebrated at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Timothy Fariss and Paul West (Passaic) were ordained to the Order of Subdeacon and Kyprian Wojciechowski and Robert Jones (Pittsburgh, both holding books) were ordained to the to the Order of Reader. n
the byzantine catholic world
DECEMBER 2019
parish news
continued
PAGE 13
2019 Year in Review Aug. 31 to Sept. 1
June 23
The 50th anniversary celebration of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Archeparchy of Pittsburgh at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. brought together clergy, sisters, faithful and esteemed guest Leonardo Cardinal Sandri, Prefect of the Congregation for the Eastern Churches at the Vatican in Rome. n
July 2
Pilgrims flocked to the 85th annual Pilgrimage in Honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. This year’s theme was “Mary, Cause of Our Joy,” as Sister Ruth Plante, Provincial, explained: “Joy...is a gift of the Holy Spirit. And it emanates from deep down inside of us.” n
Sept. 15 to 24
Sept. 29
Altar servers and parents cheered on the Pittsburgh Pirates during their 5-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pa. The outing was part of the 12th annual “Faith and Fun Day,” which also included a visit to the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History. n
Thirty-four pilgrims led by Archbishop William Skurla and Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich, Protosyncellus, traveled to the Holy Land as part of celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Church of Pittsburgh. Father Andrew is blessed by Archbishop William with water of the Jordan River. n
July 25
Sept. 29
Clergy, sisters and faithful enjoyed fun and fellowship during the annual Byzantine Catholic Day at Kennywood Park in West Mifflin, Pa. The day’s activities started with a prayer service celebrated by Archbishop William Skurla and performances by Slavjane’s junior and teenage and ensembles. n
Father Don Bolls and parisioners celebrated the 50th anniversary of Church of the Resurrection in Monroeville, Pa. with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrated by Archbishop William Skurla. n
the byzantine catholic world
PAGE 14
DECEMBER 2019
thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras
a great light has arisen Marcus Aurelius in 274 A.D., as an attempt to establish an imperial monotheistic cult of the sun. It was also the occasion for an outbreak of persecution against the Christians, who worshiped the one God. Indeed,
The feasts of Christmas (the birth of Jesus on Dec. 25) and Theophany (the baptism of Jesus on Jan. 6) are both closely connected with Pascha (the feast of our Lord’s death and resurrection). Many of the Church fathers were of the opinion that March 25, the date chosen for the feast of the Annunciation, was also the same day on which our Lord died on the Cross. It was also significant in that it was the approximate time of Spring, and by tradition was the date of the creation of the world. This date becomes even more significant when we take into account the fact that in many areas of the East, 14 Nisan corresponded to April 6 (Jan. 6 is nine months later) on the Roman calendar. It would seem, therefore, that it is possible that the date of Christmas was calculated from the date of Pascha, for Jesus was born nine months after his conception. The early work De Solstiss tells us, “Therefore, our Lord was conceived on the eighth of the kalends of April in the month of March, which is the day of the passion of the Lord and of his conception. For on the day that he was conceived on the same he suffered.” From this, we can see why Christmas would have been considered a Paschal feast, indeed, the “Winter Pascha,” a term coined by Father Alexander Schmemann. It has been one scholarly opinion that Christmas was invented by the Christian community in Rome to counter the “Feast of the Unconquerable Sun,” which was established by the Emperor
“The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light...” — Matthew 4:16 the earliest evidence for the celebration of Christmas at Rome dates to the year 336. However, with new evidence, we might say that the situation might have been reversed. It was not the Christians that reacted to the feast of the Unconquerable Sun, but Marcus Aurelius who reacted to Christmas! If we look at the Pre-festive texts of Christmas, we see a strong connection to Pascha, when Jesus humbled himself to death on the Cross, which then became the “Tree of Life” re-opening the way to Paradise through resurrection. Let us examine first the Troparion: “Bethlehem, make ready, Eden has been opened for all” Bethlehem is the place of Jesus’ birth, it opens Eden which had been closed by Adam’s sin, and the curse of death. Christmas takes us back to the Genesis story and overthrows the curse. “Ephrathah, prepare yourself, for the Tree of Life has blossomed from the Virgin in the cave.” Ephrathah was an alternate name for Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). The comparison continues, Bethlehem is now
Paradise, and the Tree of Life is the body of Jesus now born there. “Her womb is a spiritual paradise in which divinity was planted.” Jesus is God, he is the Tree of Life. “If we partake of it, we shall live and not die like Adam.” We now eat of the Tree of Life in Holy Communion, partaking in the Body of Christ. This idea corresponds to the Kontakion of the Third Sunday of the Great Fast, where the Tree of the Cross replaces the tree of life and Eden and Hades are re-opened. Death is destroyed, and “Christ is born to raise up the likeness that had fallen.” This theme is continued in the liturgical texts of Christmas, for example, the first sticheron at Psalm 140 at Christmas vespers, “let us proclaim the present mystery by which the partition has been broken and the flaming sword withheld. Now the Cherubim shall let us all come to the Tree of Life . . . ” The parallel Troparion for the Prefeast of Theophany also refers back to the Genesis story, but this time to the nakedness of Adam and Eve before their fall. Jesus enters naked into the Jordan, restoring our life in Paradise. Of great interest is the appearance of light at each of these events. The light is a sign of the presence of God. Death is the place of darkness, which is conquered by the light. We see this is the descent into Hades at the paschal death and resurrection of Christ, “And at the hour of midnight there rose upon the darkness there something like the light of the sun” (The apocryphal Gospel of Nicodemus XVIII, 1). At the Transfiguration, the face of Jesus shone like the sun. This idea is celebrated in the
Liturgy: “When you descended to death, O Immortal Life, you destroyed Hades by the brilliance of your divinity.” The great light at Christmas is commemorated in the third sticheron at Vespers of the Feast of Christmas. ” Your coming, O Christ, has shed a great light upon us.” The conclusion of the entire combined feast of Christmas-Theophany focuses then on light. The Gospel of the Sunday after Theophany is Matthew 4:12-17, “The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death. Light has arisen” (Matthew 4:16). The theme of light is explicitly taken up again at Pascha: “Today all things are filled with light: earth and heaven and the world beneath. Then let all creation celebrate the resurrection of Christ” (Paschal Canon, Ode 3, Troparion 1). The second coming is also done in light, “For just as lightning comes from the east and is seen as far as the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be” (Matthew 24:27). Christmas and Theophany come during the shortest days of the year, but they are feasts of the light of Christ. At Christmas, therefore, we sing, “Your birth, O Christ our God, has shed upon the world the light of knowledge” (Troparion), and at Theophany we sing, “At your baptism in the Jordan, O Lord, worship of the Trinity was revealed ... O Christ God, you appeared and enlightened the world” (Troparion). And both of these feasts point to the future light of the Resurrection. n This column originally appeared in the Dec. 2014 issue of The Byzantine Catholic World.
BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY View Liturgical Services (various times) streamed LIVE online at:
St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa. www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com
St. John Chrysostom, Pittsburgh, Pa. www.sjcbcc.com
Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa. www.youtube.com then type Holy Ghost Church Live Stream
St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa. www.facebook.com/stgregoryusc
SS. Peter and Paul, Braddock, Pa. https://www.facebook.com/SSPeterPaulBraddock/
St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio www.facebook.com/st.michaelsbyz.campbell
St. Elias, Munhall, Pa. www.facebook.com/St-Elias-Byzantine-Catholic-Church-157868411675213 the byzantine catholic world
DECEMBER 2019
PAGE 15
Catholic News Service Newswire
Bishops urged to support teens, young adults in parishes
general assembly of the u.s. conference of catholic bishops held in baltimore by Carol Zimmerman Catholic News Service
BALTIMORE — The day after the U.S. bishops were encouraged at their Baltimore meeting to bring young people back to the church, they were urged to also pay more attention to and support the teens and young adults among them in parishes and church programs. To help them do this, they were advised Nov. 12 to use "Christus Vivit" ("Christ Lives") -- Pope Francis' reflection on the 2018 Synod of Bishops on young people, the faith and vocational discernment -- as their guide. "'Christus Vivit' is a call to action for everyone in the life of the church regardless of our age," said Bishop Frank J. Caggiano of Bridgeport, Connecticut, a delegate to last year's Synod of Bishops on young people. In remarks on the second day of the bishops' Nov. 11-13 meeting, he acknowledged that many in the room might feel uncertain about how to respond to and help young people in the church, but he said they can find encouragement from the pope's message and, in particular, his sentiment that young people are the church's hope. The pope's apostolic exhortation -- which is both a letter to young people about
their place in the church and a plea for older members to encourage them -- was described by Bishop Caggiano as a call to action and a moment of grace that "we should not and cannot allow to slip away." For starters, he said his fellow bishops should read the pope's document "from cover to cover and engage in dialogue" about it with church leaders on the diocesan and parish level as a way to enrich church ministries and outreach. So the bishops would not just take his word for it, Bishop Caggiano also introduced two young adults to them who gave their insights on the pope's document. Brenda Noriega, coordinator of young adult ministry for the Diocese of San Bernardino, California, told the bishops she was grateful for "Christus Vivit" because it provided a foundation for her work. She said one of her favorite parts of it is where the pope responds to the frustrations of many young people and reminds them that God loves them and that they matter. She said she finds hope with pastors who are willing to listen to young people and "accompany us on the journey like spiritual fathers." Brian Rhude, program coordinator at the Catholic Apostolate Center in
Brenda Noriega, Young Adults Ministry Coordinator at the Diocese of San Bernardino, Calif., responds to a question alongside Brian Rhude, Program Coordinator at the Catholic Apostolate Center in Washington, during a Nov. 12 news conference during the fall general assembly of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Baltimore. Catholic News Service photo/Bob Roller.
Washington, said he wouldn't be before the bishops at this moment if it hadn't been for the Catholics who accompanied him over the years. Rhude said he was particularly struck by how Pope Francis warns against looking at all young people with broad strokes and assuming they are all the same. He also said he had been inspired by message in "Christus Vivit" that "our individual stories do not occur in a vacuum" and that as people come to know more about each other they can "form the greater story that God is writing." Bishop Caggiano stressed the importance of youth and young adult ministry already at work and suggested that bishops find
ways to continue to encourage these efforts and invest in them even more, expanding efforts of a more diverse outreach. "Quite frankly, our ministry will not reach its goal unless every young person is at the table, particularly those who are immigrants, marginalized and poor," he said. He concluded by stressing that above all, the bishops should "listen more deeply" to young people. "We do a lot of talking about young people and young adults," he said, "but Pope Francis is asking us in the heart to listen to and learn from them and invite them right now into appropriate leadership in the church." n
Don’t join devil’s game of jealousy, pope says at Mass
“behind all this, there is someone who moves us to do these things. it’s what we call temptation.” by Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY — The devil is real and is so jealous of Jesus and the salvation Jesus offers that he tries everything he can to divide people and make them attack each other, Pope Francis said. Celebrating Mass in the chapel of his residence Nov. 12, the pope preached about the day's first reading from the Book of Wisdom, which says: "God formed us to be imperishable; the image of his own nature he made us. But by the envy of the devil, death entered the world." "Some people say, 'But, Father, the devil doesn't exist,'" the pope told the small congregation in the chapel of the Domus Sanctae Marthae. "But the word of God is clear." The devil's envy, which the Book of Wisdom cites, is the root of
all his efforts to get people to hate and kill one another. But his first steps, the pope said, are to sow "jealously, envy and competition" instead of allow people to enjoy brotherhood and peace. Some people will say, "'But, Father, I don't destroy anyone.' No? And your gossiping? When you speak ill of another? You destroy that person," the pope said. Someone else might say, "But, Father, I've been baptized. I'm a practicing Catholic, how's it possible that I could become an assassin?" The answer to that is that "we have war inside of us," the pope said. Pointing to the beginning of Genesis, he noted that "Cain and Abel were brothers, but out of jealously, envy, one destroyed the other." And even today, he said, just turn on the
TV news and you see wars, destruction and people dying either because of hatred or because others are too selfish to help. "Behind all this, there is someone who moves us to do these things. It's what we call temptation," he said. "Someone is touching your heart to make you follow the wrong path, someone who sows destruction in our hearts, who sows hatred." Pope Francis said he cannot help wondering why countries spend so much money on weapons and waging war when that money can be used to feed children at risk of dying of hunger or to bring clean water, education and health care to everyone. What is happening in the world, he said, happens also "in my soul and in yours" because of the "devil's seeds of
the byzantine catholic world
Pope Francis gives the homily as he celebrates morning Mass in the chapel of his residence, the Domus Sanctae Marthae, at the Vatican Nov. 12, 2019. In his homily, the pope said the devil is jealous and tries everything he can to destroy humanity. Catholic News Service photo/Vatican Media.
envy" sown abundantly. Pope Francis asked the people at Mass with him to pray for an increased faith in Jesus, who became human to battle and to defeat the devil, and for the strength "to not join the game of this great envier, the great liar, the sower of hate." n
PAGE 16
DECEMBER 2019
around the archeparchy
liturgical schedule at the Seminary “Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord”
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. 13. Handmade, fully cooked, made fresh and ready to eat. Potato, sauerkraut and cheese. Voted no. 1 for second year in a row at Kennywood Pirohi Fest. TASTE OF HEAVEN COOKIE SALE — 9 a.m.-noon Dec. 7, 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. 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 December: 1 25th Sunday after Pentecost 11 p.m. Thanksgiving vacation ends 2 8 a.m. 1st Royal Hour (R) 3 7 a.m. 3rd Royal Hour (R) 4 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 5 7 a.m. Festal Matins (R), 4:45 p.m. Great Vespers (M) 6 St. Nicholas 7:55 a.m. Divine Liturgy with Great Doxology (M) 7 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 5 p.m. Great Vespers (R) 8 26th Sunday after Pentecost 7 a.m. Festal Matins with Divine Liturgy (R) 9 8 a.m. 6th Royal Hour (R) 10 7 a.m. Emmanuel Moleben (R) 11 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 12 7 a.m. Orthros (M), 4:45 p.m. Great Vespers (R) 13 7:55 a.m. Divine Liturgy with Great Doxology (M), 5 p.m. Nativity Vespers 14 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy for all saints and departed, 5 p.m. Great Compline for Nativity (R) 15 Sunday of the Forefathers 7 a.m. Festal Orthros with Divine Liturgy (M) 16 8 a.m. 9th Royal Hour (R) 17 7 a.m. Holy Mystery of Anointing (R) 18 7 a.m. 1st Hour (R) 19 7 a.m. 3rd Hour (R) 20 7 a.m. 3rd and 6th Hours (M) 21 to 31 No services (M) Melkite
CHRISTMAS CRAFT/BAKE SALE — Noon-5 p.m. Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 8, St. John the Baptist, 201 E. Main St., Uniontown, Pa. Sponsored by the Ethnic Craft Club of St. John the Baptist. The sale will feature decorations, wood crafted items, folk crafts, religious articles, parish cook books (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 charge for admission. For information call 724-438-6027 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., leave message. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET — 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 8, St. Mary’s Center, Route 981, Trauger, Pa. Santa will visit 10 a.m.-noon. Cost: $6, adults; $3, 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 send photos and stories to bcw@archpitt.org. Thank you!
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 St. Nicholas Celebration St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa. DEC. 15 Holiday Sounds Christmas Cookie Cabaret with The East Winds Symphonic Band and the Byzantine Catholic 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
Official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh
Byzantine Catholic Press Associates 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Tel: 412-231-4000 Fax: 412-231-1697 E-mail: bcw@archpitt.org Website: www.archpitt.org
next issue: CHRISTMAS 2019
dec. 27 Feast of the Holy Protomartyr Stephen
submissions DEADLINE:
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
DECEMBER 13
See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org
the byzantine catholic world