THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHEPARCHY OF PITTSBURGH
the first commandment
celebrating mother’s day
Parishes in the Archeparchy celebrate mothers Page 7 to 8
Reflection by Father Vasyl Symyon Page 4
Inside
VOL. 65
From the heart st, michael in campbell, ohio celebrates “virtual spirit week”
NO. 6
JUNE 2020
signs of the times Children at Ascension of Our Lord in Clairton, Pa. get crafry Page 10
“The Gospel of St. John as a Paschal Gospel” annual seminary lecture presented online Press release
St. Michael in Campbell, Ohio celebrated “Virtual Spirit Week” April 20 to 24, as parishioners were asked to post photos for each day’s theme, including “Parish Pride Day” and “Stroll Down Memory Lane,” on the parish’s Facebook page.” Father Kevin Marks is pastor. For more photos, see page 9.
How are you? faithful share thoughts on living through a pandemic by David Mayernik Jr. Editor
How are you? It’s a question often posed to others during our daily routine at work, home and church. But in recent days — living through a global pandemic — the query has become more honest and the answers not as superficial. The Byzantine Catholic World reached out to the faithful of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh
and asked the question: “How are you?” The answers are insightful and inspiring. (And edited for space, clarity and content.) n The Andrew Glaid family from St. John’s Cathedral has been busy during the quarantine. We made a dozen face masks for various people. My daughter has taken food to both of her grandparents. We contribute to
local food drives, Mostly, we talk to family and friends by telephone or Zoom conference calls. Zoom calls make everyone happy and ease the social isolation at this time. I have taught many people how to “Zoom.” We also watch the online streaming Liturgies every Sunday as a family event. Marjorie Glaid St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa.
Story continued on page 12
Accomplished author and skillful teacher Very Rev. Dr. John Behr of Saint Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary in Yonkers, N.Y., was the speaker at the 20th annual SS. Cyril and Methodius Lecture of the Byzantine Catholic Seminary on May 7. The lecture was livestreamed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Father Behr spoke on “The Gospel of St. John as a Paschal Gospel.” The entire lecture can be viewed through the Seminary’s website or it can also be accessed through the Seminary’s YouTube channel. The lecture was attended live by over 120 viewers, and hundreds more have had a chance to benefit from Father Behr’s expertise in this topic, first demonstrated in his work, John the Theologian and His Paschal Gospel: A Prologue to Theology (Oxford University Press 2019). Father John lost no time in leading his audience along an ever-heightening path of appreciating why it is not accidental for the Byzantine Tradition to read the Gospel of John during the Paschal liturgical season. Of particular interest was the painting of a many-faceted picture of John the Theologian not simply standing under the cross as a witness to the crucifixion, but who is presiding as the new high priest over the sacrifice of the new paschal lamb. But this lamb is not just any human Story continued on page 3
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JUNE 2020
letter from the archbishop
Guidelines for the reopening of churches
UPS 081500 ISSN 07442289
May 15, 2020
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 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 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for address changes to take effect. Submissions deadline: 23rd 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
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
Christ is Risen! We continue to pray during this time of pandemic. We are thankful the first surge of cases has passed the peak for some states, counties,and cities and there has been a reduction of the recommended restrictions by the various states and counties. The governmental restrictions and recommendations continue to change day by day. The risk of infection by the pandemic will continue until a vaccine is produced or until a sufficient numbers of the community are infected and recovered from the virus. People who are not in good health, have other medical risks, or have serious fear of infection by the virus are relieved of their obligation to attend Sunday Divine Liturgy until further notice. They are encouraged to attend Divine Liturgy by one of the internet live stream or radio liturgies and programs and to support and pray for their church, family, and community during this time of pandemic. Divine Liturgies in the Byzantine Archeparchy may be celebrated while following current applicable general guidelines. Also the Clergy are instructed to familiarize themselves with the CDC guidelines www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncv/community/organizations/cleaning-disinfection.html and the applicable state guidelines, as well as any other local guidelines. Clergy are further directed to the website for Catholic Mutual Group at www. catholicmutual.org for corona virus illness resources. Before the Divine Liturgy, cover any holy water fonts, remove all hymnals, bulletins, and any reading materials from the pews and vestibule. Wipe the pews with sanitizer after services. 1. Leave an empty pew or two between people attending the Divine Liturgy to permit 6 feet between nonÂ-related persons. Families that live together may sit and pray together. Total number varies upon local civil guidelines. Also, the size of the church and number attending determines the total number attending while maintaining the six foot distance. 2. Encourage members to wear masks and use hand sanitizer upon entering the church. 3. Use a box at the entrance to receive donations instead of the normal collection of envelopes. 4. Provide ventilation to safely bring fresh air in and exhaust air out of the church if possible. 5. Priest or Deacon should wear a mask when distributing communion. Instruct the faithful to remove and hold their mask and not to close their mouth on the spoon. If they do sanitize the spoon before proceeding. Infants or people who are unable to keep their mouths open, should refrain from receiving communion during the time of the virus. 6. Reception of holy bread, kissing of the cross or hands, or kissing of icons should be discontinued during the time of the pandemic. 7. Gatherings for coffee after services are cancelled. People can speak outside maintaining social distance. 8. Baptisms, confessions, weddings and funerals may be celebrated with the practices listed. 9. The local parish pastor or administrator is responsible for determining when to restart and the details of the celebration of the sacraments. If you have questions on how to apply these guidelines, please contact me.
times; and to celebrate community among Byzantine
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Catholics in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, throughout the Metropolitan Church in America, and around the world.
Most Reverend William C Metropolitan Archbishop of Pittsburgh the byzantine catholic world
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Parishes broadcast Liturgies via internet Here is the most current list of parishes broadcasting Sunday Liturgies and other services to Faithful via their websites and social media sites such as Facebook. For an updated list, check the front page of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh’s website at archpitt.org: Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Munhall, Pa. www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral. com n 9 a.m. Sunday
n
Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa. www.holyghost-byzantinecatholic. org WEDO Radio 810 AM n 9 a.m. Sunday St. John Chrysostom Pittsburgh, Pa. www.sjcbcc.com St. Michael Campbell, Ohio n 10:30 a.m. Sunday www.facebookcom/st.michaelbyz. campbell St. Gregory Upper St. Clair, Pa. n 6 p.m. Saturday www.facebook.com/stgregoryusc n 11a.m. Sunday n 9:30 a.m. Sunday St. Elias Munhall, Pa. St. Stephen www.facebook.com/ North Huntingdon, Pa. StEliasByzantine CatholicChurch/ www.facebook.com/ ststephenbyzantinecatholicchurch n 9 a.m. Sunday n 10:30 a.m. Sunday
Note: check parish websites for schedule of Divine Services
20th annual SS. Cyril and Methodius Lecture
being. It is the perfect human being. By reference to the Pentateuch, the Apocalypse, Church Fathers, Byzantine liturgy, as well other scholars, especially John Ashton, Father Behr showed how the perfect human being, necessary for this sacrifice, was actually copresent and yet being fashioned in the entire history of salvation, culminating in the Incarnation of Christ as but one of the rays of a larger single “happening” or “light.” “Think of Easter or Pascha this way, think of it as being a pure, white light,” Father Behr said. Although over time we have come to celebrate them as separate events, the Incarnation, along with the Crucifixion, Burial, Resurrection, Ascension, and Sending of the Holy Spirit, forms the single bright light of this Paschal Lamb. In a similar way, the Genesis project of “Let us make man in our image” is not simply a divine light but involves the light of our
Virtual Weekend Retreat Mount St. Macrina House of Prayer will sponsor a virtual weekend retreat June 27 to 29 for young adults, ages 18 to 35. The theme is "Authentic Discipleship: Responding to Christ's Call in the PostModern World." Five sessions, prayer services, breakout groups, and reflections will occur 7:30 p.m. Friday to 2 p.m. Sunday. Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick and a team of young adults will lead the experience. Call 724-438-7149 or email hpmsm@verizon.net with questions or registration, Registration deadline is June 24. Donation. n
Presbyteral Council meets
Very Rev. Robert Pipta, Very Rev. Dr. John Behr broadcast 20th annual SS. Cyril and Methodius Lecture May 7 via Zoom video conferencing technology
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Bulletin Board
The Presbyteral Council of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh met in person — and via an internet conenction — May 12 to plan for the re-opening of Archeparchy parishes. The Presbyteral Council is a body of priests representing the Presbyterate which aids Archbishop William Skurla in the Pastoral care and governance of the Archeparchy, according to the norms of
law in order that the Pastoral welfare of the portion of the people of God entrusted to the Metropolitan may be promoted as effectively as possible. In a May 15 letter, Archbishop William announced Divine Liturgies in the Byzantine Archeparchy may be celebrated while following current applicable general guidelines. For the full text, see page 2. n
affirmative responses, so that the perfect human being was first fashioned in Christ, but it is also being fashioned by each of the members of His Body. It was on many levels that Christ was able to say, “It is finished.” While noting that the usual synoptic meaning is that of “my work is done, it is finished,” the Greek word tetelestai used by the Theologian has the much broader meaning of “it is perfected, it is completed,” where ‘it’ refers to the fashioning of the human being. Father John ended, “Indeed, John is the Paschal Gospel. Those who first celebrated the Feast in the second century look back to him as being the high priest of this mystery and when read in this way, it opens up, as I hope I have shown, a far more expansive vision…” n The 2020 Seminary Lecture may be view online at: n https://www.bcs.edu/ annual-lecture-series/ n https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=r8w2XLuUIYQ
The Presbyteral Council of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, including Archbishop William Skurla and Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich, Protosyncellus, met May 12 at the Chancery.
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JUNE 2020
reflection from weirton, w .va.
The First Commandment: I am the Lord Your God By Father Vasyl Symyon Assumption of the Mother of God, Weirton, W.V.; Saint John the Baptist, Avella, Pa.
Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen! My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, we continue this series of articles in the field of Moral Theology. One of Moral Theology’s most important lessons is the Decalogue (literally Ten Words) or the Ten Commandments. I am sure you remember them from your catechism classes but let me review them so you may reflect on them for yourselves. Very often when we hear about the Ten Commandments, we immediately imagine something negative, something that prohibits us from doing something: “Don’t do this or don’t do that.” Yet at the same time we overlook why God gave the Decalogue to the people. In Chapter 20 of the Book of Exodus, we read God was a protagonist and gave the commandments to the Jewish people because of His love for them. The Decalogue served as a sign of the Covenant, a sign of God’s love for the Jewish people. By keeping the Ten Commandments, the Jewish people accordingly declared their love for God and obeyed God’s word because of His love. With the coming of Jesus Christ, scripture inherited a universal character. It also offered the world a new and everlasting Covenant, one established through the suffering, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ for the benefit of all nations. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might not perish but might have eternal life” (John 3:16). And through scripture, Jesus reveals to all nations the two greatest commandments: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. The whole law and the
prophets depend on these two commandments” (Matthew 22, 37-40). Recall God handed Moses two tablets with the Ten Commandments. On the first tablet were written commandments one through three (love for God), while written on the second tablet were the remaining seven (love for neighbor). Thus Jesus recapitulates the two commandments of love which define the law and confirm the words of the prophets. Let me again underscore that the basis of the Ten Commandments is love: God’s love for the people and man’s love for God and for his neighbor. In this light, I offer a short description of the first commandment of the Decalogue. The biblical text of the Ten Commandments is found in the Book of Exodus. The first commandment is: “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. You shall not have other gods beside me. You shall not make for yourself an idol or a likeness of anything in the heavens above or on the earth below or in the waters beneath the earth; you shall not bow down before them or serve them” (Exodus 20, 2-5). This is the first commandment of the Decalogue, the very basis and interpretation of the other nine commandments. And I want to explain it so that you understand it comfortably and completely. The first commandment consists of three parts which are not separate of each other but are like pieces of a stained glass window. Together, they craft one incredible portrait. So, let’s analyze the first commandment and its three parts : n Theological (Who is my God?): I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. You shall not have other gods beside me.
n Pastoral (How do I believe
in my God?): You shall not make for yourself an idol or a likeness of anything in the heavens above or on the earth below or in the waters beneath the earth. n Liturgical (How do I worship my God?): You shall not bow down before them or serve them. From the very first words of the Decalogue, God reminds us about His love for His people and the help He offers them: I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt. We recognize that God is not some “phantasm,” not some “idea”, not some “force.” On the contrary, He is a “personal” God who — through His great love — wants to build a strong relationship and make a covenant with us. We must understand that God is Person One in the Holy Trinity with whom we can build a relationship of love because “God is Love” (1 John 4,8). God is a Person who loves us with the supreme and eternal love within Himself. Jesus Christ told His disciples and tells us, “As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love” (John 15, 9-10). A “phantasm,” an “idea” and a “force” cannot love you. An inanimate object cannot love you. But God so loved us that He suffered, was crucified, died and trampled death for all of us, for our salvation and for our everlasting life. Do you believe this? Do you understand it? We live in a time of a highly pronounced religious crisis that greatly disturbs me. We live in a country and society originally shaped on the principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as well as Christian values. But today’s society has evolved into one plagued by selfishness, indifference and greed. Many people have strayed from the very Divinity
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who gave them life and ignore Him as a living, personal God. In Dr. Scott Hahn’s fascinating book, “Evangelizing Catholics,” we find some interesting yet frightening information. A few years ago, Pew Research studied the beliefs and attitudes of Christians throughout the United States. Its findings disclosed just 48 percent of Catholics believe without a doubt that God is a personal God who they could know and with whom they could form a relationship. Considering the remaining core of U.S. Catholics, it means 52 percent of them think about God occasionally. To them, however, God is only a “phantasm” or a “universal spirit.” In this period of religious crisis, the first commandment presents us a precise lesson to follow daily. People have not erased God from existence. But they tend to disregard His commandments, precepts and teachings. And they take for granted the graces He offers to help them through their lives and prepare them to spend eternity with Him. Yes, we are a people who quickly forget so the first commandment is there to remind us that God is a living, loving and caring God. We always must know and love Him in return and thank Him for all we have and do not have. For He knows what is best for us! We live in a wonderful country that satisfies our needs with an abundance of blessings — freedom, food, clothes, medicines, jobs, education — all of them from Almighty God. But do we comprehend what He does for us? Or do we take His blessings for granted? Do we truly believe that God loves us? Consider how many times God has blessed us. And how many times He has forgiven and saved us. Do we thank Him daily for these blessings? Do we believe God is a personal God waiting for us to love and serve Him all the time? Do we believe God is present in the Holy Eucharist, the living body and blood of Jesus Christ? I pray you will meditate on these questions until we further explore this subject in my next article. Christos Voskrese! Voistinnu Voskrese! n
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text messages
reflection from mount st. macrina
Hair today, gone tomorrow by David Mayernik Jr. Editor
I saw an interesting question g o i n g around on Tw i t t e r the other day: What changes in your life that have been necessitated by being quarantined may carry over whenever our lives get back to normal? (Or, as normal as can be expected, that is.) There were a variety of intelligent comments. Some people may continue to work from home, if possible and permitted by their boss. Others will continue to stay in regular contact with others using newly-discovered Zoom technology. As for myself, I’m considering continuing to get haircuts at home. Now, admittedly, I don’t have much on top to begin with but in March — about a week after I could tell things got really serious — I began fretting about my next haircut. So, I ordered pair of clippers and talked my mom into giving me a haircut. Apparently, a lot of other people had the same idea. I read sales of hair clippers in April 2020 were up by 166 percent compared to April 2019. Desperate times, desperate measures, and all that... She was a good barber from the start and has only gotten better as she’s become more comfortable with the clippers. Sure, there are no two-yearold issues of People magazine and crying children in the waiting room (read: living room of my parents’ house), so that’s a plus, also.
At this point, I’m not sure when my regular hair salon will even open back up after being closed for two months and counting. Will my regular barber even still be there? And will I even feel safe going there to get a haircut, sitting in a waiting room with other strangers? I’m not exactly sure at the moment but, whether my fear is real or imagined, I’m thinking, “Nope.” But time will tell, in that regard. I reserve the right to change my opinion. So, where do I turn to for counsel on this subject? I decided to look to the Holy Bible and found there many verses about hair in its pages. Especially gray hair, which is popping up with alarming regularity on my own cranium. Even when you’re old, I’ll take care of you. Even when your hair turns gray, I’ll support you. I made you and will continue to care for you (Isaiah 46:4-5). Even when I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me live to tell the people of this age what your strength has accomplished, to tell about your power to all who will come (Psalm 71:18-19). Of the verses I’ve read, I think my favorite may be this one from Proverbs:
Following Christ with a sense of moderation 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 Aug. 23, 2019 reflection and is Part 8 of her “Fruits of the Holy Spirit” series. Glory to Jesus Christ! I remember a distinct moment in eighth grade when Sister Basil, at the beginning of the school year, said to us, "Please know that I pray for you every day." Then she said something shocking. She said, "In my prayers I pray any of you that do something wrong will be caught immediately." Wow, that surprised us. But she said, "Well, it makes sense. The sooner you are caught, the sooner you may change your ways toward the better." Actually, a couple guys in that class didn't get the message and they ended up in prison. The point is the Fruit of the Spirit I want to talk about today, which is “self-control.” This is the moderation that all of us are taught as we are being disciplined as children. We can
talk in a restaurant, but we don't scream. You can't talk in church, you can only whisper. In this we are learning the boundaries, the parameters that society expects of us. That's the truth with our Christian faith as well. How do we live as Christ's followers with a sense of moderation? One of the things is that we don't put our trust in riches, in material things. And we don't put our trust in becoming proud, in becoming the most important in the world or any such thing. So, there's a moderation even in this. In religious life, we actually take a vow of poverty so that a simplicity of life, a holding of goods together, becomes our way of life. The same thing with obedience. We take a vow of obedience so that life isn't about me and my self-determination all the time. Because we live in community, this is guided together with others and our leadership. The next time we'll talk about chastity as another element of this God-directed life. Remember, it's self-control. One hint that helps: if we keep giving in to less self-control, we can recognize that we may be headed in the wrong direction in something. Pray for this Fruit of the Holy Spirit. It is so useful and helpful to us in living a virtuous and, therefore, a happy life. God bless you. n
Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life (Proverbs 16: 31). That verse makes me feel a whole lot better about my current predicament. I wear my crown —such as it is — with honor. n
Time for a home haircut at the Mayernik residence
Pilgrimage 2019 at Mount St. Macrina in Uniiontown, Pa.
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parish news JUNE 2020
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st. elias in munhall, pa.
st. stephen in north huntingdon, pa.
Hats off to graduates!
Celebrating Easter
by Mary Caryl Planiczki St. Elias, Munhall, Pa.
St. Elias in Munhal, Pa. salutes its 2020 high school graduates! John Sramac graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School. He plans to attend Ithaca College and major in business. He will play lacrosse for the Ithaca Bombers. Nick Harhai graduated from
Steel Valley High School. He will be attending Gannon University and major in psychology. He was a fouryear starting pitcher for Steel Valley, winning the 2019 WPIAL Championship. He is anxious to play baseball for the GU Golden Knights. God grant them many years! n
Father John Petro, Bob Keleschenyi and Barry Smith greeted the faithful who drove up in their cars on Palm Sunday to receive palms at St. Stephen in North Huntingdon, Pa.
John Sramac
Nick Harhai
Visiting from Ukraine by Mary Caryl Planiczki St. Elias, Munhall, Pa.
With the blessings of Metropolitan Archbishop William Skurla of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh and Bishop Milan Ĺ aĹĄik of
the Eparchy of Mukachevo in Ukraine, Subdeacon Iurii Goliba has been visiting St. Elias. We thank him for serving at liturgies and cantoring. Father Vitalii Stashkevych is the pastor. n
St. Stephen parishioners maintained social distance during Good Friday with a drivethru viewing of the burial shroud set up in the narthex of the church.
st. nicholas in perryopolis, pa.
Clean sweep by Frances Kranik St. Nicholas, Perryopolis, Pa.
Three very busy ladies were happy to give up five hours of a beautiful spring day to clean and sanitize St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church in Perryopolis,
Father Vitalii Stashkevych, Subdeacon Iurii Goliba
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Pa. This is in anticipation of returning to active participation in our beautiful liturgy. We did this out of love of our church and our fellow parishioners to make sure everyone is safe. n
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st. stephen in north hUNTINGDON, PA.
Celebrating Mother’s Day Dan Vasko wishes a Happy Mother’s Day to wife Debby Vasko (below, left) and his mother, Margaret Vasko, seen in a 2005 photo (below, right) about two-and-a-half years before she fell asleep in the Lord. Eternal Memory. n
St. Stephen in North Huntingdon, Pa. posted photos of living and deceased mothers sent in by parishioners on its Facebook page in clelebration of Mother’s Day May 10. Happy Mother’s Day to Reaha Frishof, our Grandmother and Great Grandmother....so very missed. Love, Mike, Jodi, Carli and C.J. n Happy Mother’s Day to Margaret Hreha, our Mom, Gram, and Great Gram, who we all miss so very much. Love, Adrienne, Mike, Jodi, Carli, and C.J. n
Happy Mother’s Day to Ann Prodan celebrating her 90th birthday in March 2020. We love you. From Cindy and Sandy
Happy Mother's Day to Janice Bishop from Kristen and family. You continue to nurture us with your love and support and we are eternally grateful. Happy Heavenly Mother's Day to Ann Kish, mother of Janice, and Dorothy Bishop, mother of Ron. (Baby Kristen is pictured at right with Dorothy.) n
Happy Mother’s Day to my daughter Jennifer, mother to my two precious granddaughters, and eternal memory of my paternal grandmother, Anna Loichinger Liebel, my mother, Anne Demyanovich Liebel, and my maternal grandmother, Eva Guzak Demyanovich. Janet Belliveau (Yarosik) n
Happy Mother’s Day in Heaven to Ann Andrejcak’s mother, Almarine Crockett (at right), and Mike’s mother, Anna Andrejcak (below). Eternal Memory. n
Happy Mother’s Day Baba, Adrienne Frishof. You’re the absolute BEST! Love, Mike, Jodi, Carli, and CJ. n
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Happy Mother’s Day to Jodi Polczynski, the best mom ever! Love, Carli and Cameron n
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st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa.
Saluting St. Gregory mothers St. Gregory in Upper St. Clair created a video to mothers, grandmothers and all women of faith. It can be viewed at https://www. facebook.com/stgregoryusc/. n
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JUNE 2020
parish news
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st. michael in campbell, ohio
“Virtual Spirit Week” by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio
Posted April 16 on Facebook: Join us for St. Michael Byzantine Virtual Spirit Week! Next week, April 20 to 24. We want our parishioners and friends to participate in our “Virtual Spirit Week.” Listed below is the activity for the day, and you are asked to share your pictures by sending them in or post your own in the comments section of each day’s post. Monday, April 20 — “Parish Pride Day.” Take a picture wearing your St. Michael’s parish T-Shirt. Tuesday, April 21 — “Stroll Down Memory Lane.” Share your favorite St. Michael Parish
memory. Maybe a baptism, wedding, or just a fun time at bingo or BCC, share a pic of a parish memory you cherish. Wednesday, April 22 — “Celebrating Creation.” Since it’s Earth Day, take a picture of something outside that you feel is the beauty of God’s creation. Thursday, April 23 — “Happy Hunky Day.” Make your favorite “hunky” meal. Anything from halupki to paprikash, to pirohi, and send in a picture of it. Friday, April 24 — “Pastor Appreciation” Make a sign for our pastor or any priest or religious, letting them know how much you miss being in church and thanking them for all they do. n
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JUNE 2020
ascension of our lord in clairton, pa.
“Beauty of your house” Adoration corner by Trish Roberts Ascension of Our Lord, Clairton, Pa.
In the Byzantine Liturgy we pray: “Sanctify those who love the beauty of your house. Glorify them [in return] with your divine power.” Easter is the time that we feel most profoundly the beauty of our rite and are strengthened
by a power from above in our identity as Byzantine Christians. May this experience remain with us throughout the year and lead us to ever greater devotion and commitment to Christ and to our Church. Father Ivan Mina is pastor. n
by Trish Roberts Ascension of Our Lord, Clairton, Pa.
At a time of official suspension of liturgies at our churches, the role of family as small church becomes especially important. Bill and Karen Kerr’s
beautiful adoration corner is an inspiration to prayer and spiritual contemplation. A talented whittler, Karen fashioned a walking stick that is reminiscent of an ancient crozier. n
Signs of the times by Trish Roberts Ascension of Our Lord, Clairton, Pa.
Children from the Ascension Church in Clairton, Pa. display their thoughts with signs and wanted to share them with everyone. From the youngest to the oldest, they used their own ideas and created their display signs. Of course, our younger parishioners needed a little extra help from mom and dad, but all enjoyed the activity. n
Kingston Bellavance
Edith Dufalla
Julia Tomkowitz
Henry Dufalla
Liberty Bellavance
Natalie Tomkowitz
Theodore Dufalla
Rory Sowko
Brent Kolesar
Solana and Maxim Gardner-Gotera
Jacob Cochran
Alexandria Lassige
Nicholas Tomkowitz
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Sydney Cochran
JUNE 2020
parish news
holy ghost in mckees rocks, pa.
Blessing baskets by Maria Iyengar Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa.
Holy Ghost in McKees Rocks, Pa. blessed baskets this year by placing them on the hoods of cars.
Anita Iyengar and Carmella Rippole spent the first Saturday in May making a
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st, nicholas chapel in beaver, pa.
New home for Holy Shroud
Father Frank Firko then read the blessing prayers over a microphone and went to each car to bless the baskets. Parishoners stayed inside cars but participated in the singing. n
Chalk talk, too by Maria Iyengar Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa.
continued
chalk drawing for Father Frank Firko, reminding him how the entire parish is feeling:"We Miss U Fr. Frank" n
by Father Will Rupp Administrator, St. Nicholas Chapel, Beaver, Pa.
In its first year as a parish of the Archeparchy, St. Nicholas Chapel in Beaver, Pa. celebrated the full liturgical cycle culminating with the Resurrection of our Lord, beginning with Pascha 1996. The parish’s beautiful Paschal Shroud (Plaschanitza) was first carried in the burial procession, placed in the tomb, and then placed on the Holy Altar until the Feast of the Ascension in 1996. After its removal the Shroud remained quietly protected but hidden from all view until one year later. And so the tradition would continue year after year, celebration after celebration, with many faithful — some of them no longer part of this earthly life — bowing before and venerating the Shroud. Over the years the faithful would change, the celebrants would change, the flowers would change, and with newer publications the liturgical
service would change. But the one constant with every Paschal celebration at St. Nicholas Chapel has been the Shroud. That is, until this year. As everyone knows, with COVID-19 and the suspension of all liturgical services, even the Paschal Shroud would not be carried in procession, placed in the tomb, and placed on the Holy Altar. Even the Holy Shroud has been affected as St. Nicholas Chapel has remained closed since the third Sunday of Great Lent. But the faithful will not have to wait until Pascha 2021 to see, and possibly pray before, the Holy Shroud at St. Nicholas Chapel. Instead of its past 24-year residence in a large storage drawer, this Shroud is now encased and on view on the back wall of the Chapel. Parishioners Fred and Mary Ellen Petro researched, received approval, purchased and then installed a display case for the Holy Shroud which will remain in its new (between Paschas) home going forward. n
sisters of st. basil the great at mount st. macrina in uniontown, pa.
Throwback Thursday Posted May 14 on the Sisters of St. Basil the Great’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/sistersofstbasil.uniontown/ #ThrowBackThursday In the coming months, we are celebrating the 100th year anniversary of the #SistersofStBasil. Today we look back at our teaching ministry. Did you know that the Sisters taught in 26 Byzantine Catholic schools over the years?
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“How are you?” faithful across the archeparchy share thoughts on living through a pandemic continued from page 1
point to keep in touch with family and friends, especially at this time. If there is any good that will come out of this pandemic, I hope that more people will turn to the Church and pray to God for health and peace through out the world.
n When you live alone, a quarantine is a unique experience. I channeled my energy into a daily walk around my housing plan. Not only is it great cardiac exercise that builds my immune system, it’s a great way to socialize! Everyone has the same idea. We wear our face masks and practice social distancing. I’m meeting new people, too! I also enjoyed working with the St. Gregory Ministries.
Monica Gazzo SS. Peter and Paul, Braddock, Pa.
n COVID-19 has changed my life, and yours, too. No more hugs, handshakes, social interactions, no more of a lot of things we did before this virus came upon us. All we can do is forge ahead and make the best of the times that we will have together.
Barbara Spadafore St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
n We streamed Liturgies from some of our other churches that we have never been to. It was a great way to “visit” them. I hope the streaming stays for those folks who aren’t able to get out. Anita Wisniewski St . John, Scottdale, Pa.
n This COVID-19 pandemic has certainly been an experience, one I could never have imagined in my lifetime. The extent of how serious this virus is became more apparent in the early weeks of the closings throughout the states. Under normal conditions I watch the news faithfully and I also read the print news. However, COVID-19 has taken me to a whole new level of watching, listening and being aware of any or all new developments. During one of the earlier days of the lockdown, I remember driving and feeling as though I was in the “Twilight Zone.” Parking lots were empty, few cars were on the road and almost no people could be seen in public. Many weeks have passed and we are now adjusting to wearing a mask in public while making our “essential” public outings and “social distancing” has become the norm. I am hopeful and I think it is good to see businesses beginning to open, but, I agree that it needs to be done in a smart and safe way. On a personal side, I, and my husband Don, have been off work, as are so many others. Our hearts feel so sad for those who have lost their life and for their families. We pray for all who are affected and for continued medical research to slow down and ultimately to find a vaccine for this virus. We have missed attending (in person) Divine Liturgy, and, Pascha was also quite unique this year. Thankfully, we can still watch the services and liturgies as they are
Mary Ann Wentz St. Michael, Donora, Pa.
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Eve, Arden and Etta Bovee; daughters of Marty A. and Anna Bovee, of St. John Cathedral, Munhall, Pa.; watch the Divine Services livestreamed from the Cathedral. They had a special blessing of their Paschal food following Resurrection Matins.
streamed live in a number of our Byzantine churches. I think that as with so many negative and bad situations, we should try to look for and take advantage of what we can control. Sharing special times with our family in our homes, reading books, reading the Bible, doing muchneeded projects, talking with our friends and keeping relationships alive are all important and so easy to do. Those things are “in our own hands”. It may be challenging, but we’ll get through this. There will always be so much to be thankful for. Lori Downey SS. Peter and Paul, Braddock. Pa.
n The hardest part of social distancing is having to stay completely in. Missing my family and friends on a regular basis. Good things do come of this situation. My family calls more often, has my groceries delivered to me, has hooked me up with Facetime on my phone so I can at least see them, I think I am becoming spoiled in that department. Being a person “on the go” I found myself making face masks using my sewing talents. It kept me from the boredom of being in 24/7. It also gave me a good feeling that I could help in some small way to keep people safe.I
have made close to 200 masks. I do attend all livestream liturgies from St. Gregory of Nazianzus Byzantine Church and find myself praying much much more in these times of quarantine. Awaiting going back to church in person. Lois Griffith St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
n The hardest part about social distancing is by far not being able to take part in the Liturgy in my church for so many days, especially during the Easter season I also miss my parish family and the camaraderie we share every Sunday and Holy Day. We appreciate that Father Vitalii Stashkevych wired the church, which made it possible to take part in the liturgy on our computer at home. We appreciate his efforts as well as our cantor, for celebrating Presanctified Liturgy, celebrating Sunday Liturgy as scheduled and sending the bulletin to our homes each week. It is wonderful to see our beautiful church on the screen. I also found it to be heartwarming to see so many people that watched the Liturgy on Facebook. Some were former parishioners and/or family members who moved out of state. Many of them have expressed warm comments and were pleased to be able to watch the Liturgy. I do find that I am praying more for family, for the churches and for all that are suffering in the world due to this virus. I also make it a
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Father Vasyl Symyon has gone above and beyond, making sure that Divine Liturgy, Presanctified Liturgy, Holy Week services, Rosary, Stations of the Cross, Akathist and Molebens have been livestreamed. We thank God that between St. John in Avella, Pa. and St. Mary’s in Weirton, W. Va., we are blessed with four cantors to share in the singing of these services. We have tried to keep in touch with each other during the closing of our churches. One of our parishioners even offered anonymous financial assistance to any of our members who were in need. Frozen food is also available. May God continue to bless and keep us and bring us out of this crisis stronger in our faith and may we never take for granted the holy sacraments and our churches. God bless and keep you! Sincerely yours in The Risen Christ! Janet Winwood St Mary’s, Weirton, W. Va.
n Christ has Risen! Hello fellow Byzantines! These are definitely some trying times. Not sure I like this new way of life. We continue to drop off our weekly church envelope, despite not being able to attend. {Church has bills too...) I do not go away from my home very often. My wife does all the shopping, for essential foods. The good that has come out of this, is many things. It has taught me to pray more
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continued from page 12 diligently. Think about not sinning as much. I have gotten lots of work done around home that needed done. My dog loves me being home all the time... L.O.L. I enjoy watching livestreaming Liturgy all the time. Saving lots of (money) not using gasoline, etc. My wife makes lots of face masks for our family & a few close friends. Reading more Church literature. Talking to people via Facebook. Things that I don’t like: Not going to Confession. Not going to Liturgy. Not receiving Communion. Not seeing my Church parishioners. Not going somewhere without wearing a mask. Miss celebrating family birthdays. Not attending Easter functions. May God bless you fully!
provided the perfect ingredient to make the experiences worth coming back for each week. More than half of the families who participated in the regular ECF program were able to take advantage of the online classes. But the opportunity to reach families of the parish did not end there. The timing of the stay at home order, just prior to Holy Week, created a sense of urgency in trying to offer something “socially distant” to the faithful during such an important liturgical time. Drivethrough palms were distributed on Palm Sunday and a Plaschanitsa was on display for a quiet drive by veneration on Good Friday. The stay-at-home order, with no services being held, also inspired Father John to record a sermon for Palm Sunday which was posted on the parish Facebook page. The overwhelming response to
off, and some used grocery delivery services. All were very appreciative of getting a phone call of concern from “the church.” During Holy Week, Bethany Ministry members made another round of phone calls, in friendship and concern, to see if our more fragile parishioners were still doing OK. Nursing home residents had basic needs provided for, but related that it was a lonely time there with no visitors allowed. They appreciated our friendly voices on the phone and receiving the weekly church bulletin and the cards everyone sent this month. Members of Bethany Ministry all said that once past the “Are you doing OK? Do you need anything?,” the phone call took on a life of its own. There were smiles, friendly conversations, learning about things we had in common in
this sermon (more than 900 views to date) resulted in streaming the liturgy on Easter Sunday and every Sunday since. The streaming weekly liturgy averages 300 views. The unprecedented coronavirus situation provided St. Stephen’s with many opportunities to engage parishioners in nontraditional ways that were well-received and much appreciated.
our careers and personal interests. A few times, there were teary eyes on both ends of the line. And unexpected bright spots too, like the call to one elderly parishioner who shared some memories of the caller’s grandfather. “It made me feel so good to hear about my grandfather! Who’s making who feel better here!” All the calls worked both ways, as is always the case when we reach out. We look forward to when we can visit in person again, but we feel good about our part in keeping parishioner friends connected to the church community during this time.
Mike Lashinsky St. John, Scottdale, Pa.
n A crew of our parishioners volunteer at the St. Vincent de Paul Society dining hall. Two of our women continue to go there during this pandemic. With dedication and courage they help prepare and package carry-out meals for hundreds of needy people of our community. Elaine Vislosky SS. Peter and Paul, Warren, Ohio
n Receiving the news about the state’s stay-at-home order provided a great opportunity for St. Stephen parish in North Huntingdon, Pa. to start thinking outside of the box. Staff members of their Eastern Christian Formation program, under the guidance of Father John Petro, hurried into action by preparing Quarantine Survival Kits for the kids and their families who would no longer be able to attend faceto-face classes on Sunday. The kits contained: a crucifix icon, bottle of holy water, candle, icon coloring pages and a Typika booklet. These kits were placed in a safe designated parish location for pick-up and some were even personally delivered. This kit project spring-boarded the ECF staff to think about continuing to provide instruction through the end of the scheduled ECF calendar year. A Zoom meeting held in late March ended with a blueprint for the month of April and a plan to hold virtual classes for the students. The instruction was held each Sunday morning and allowed the students to gather using a popular online meeting platform. Deacon Paul West and his family were able to participate in online classes and
Kristen Keleschenyi St. Stephen, North Huntingdon, Pa.
n As soon as the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions went into effect on March 15, Father Valerian Michlik activated our Bethany Ministry. Within a few days, our members made phone calls to parishioners who are in nursing homes, recovering from illness at home, singles and seniors without family nearby, and those who had a loved one pass away recently. During the phone calls, we asked: How are you doing through all of this? Do you need us to pick up groceries or prescriptions? Do you have any sacramental needs that we can tell Father Val to call you? Lastly, we went over the list of Liturgies available on the radio, internet, and cable TV channels. Fortunately, no one had any basic needs at this time...sons and daughters were driving in, distant relatives stepped up to the plate, neighbors looked out for them, some of our fellow parishioners were picking up groceries and prescriptions and dropping them
Dorothy Mayernik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
n Throughout this pandemic, I have been making face masks and donating them to anyone needing them, especially parishioners of St. John’s as well as cooking meals and baking for family and friends that can not get out. During this pandemic it has been difficult not being able to physically see our two granddaughters, but at least we get to Facetime with them. Our oldest turned 5 in April and we could not be with her to celebrate her birthday. I often wonder what she is thinking about all of this, but her parents have tried their best to explain to her why this situation is happening. One of the positive things that I have learned from this is that you cherish your family. Being together, eating meals as a family and talking
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about day-to-day happenings was something that was gone by the wayside. Now we bring this back into our lives. The hustle and bustle is no longer and you spend more time at home. Not going out to restaurants, but instead, baking and home-cooked meals are so much better and meaningful. My mom is 88 years old so every Sunday morning I take my iPad to her house and we participate in the weekly liturgy. Father Andrew Deskevich does a wonderful job and his sermons are so uplifting. This helps us to start a new week. Diane Pochron St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa.
n I yearn to go to church. For this reason, it has been a blessing that my church is closed to me. Why? Because…I yearn to go to church! In all my years of attending church weekly, I don’t think I have ever felt such a palpable yearning to go to church. This awareness has stopped me in my tracks...and made me think…what a good thing it is to have my heart tugged in this direction. When the time comes that I can return to church, I am thankful for those who will take the adequate steps to provide me with a safe and healthy place to worship. The absence of worshipping within the ecclesiastical church has influenced my domestic church… another aspect which I have taken for granted. I appreciate the personal time that my husband and I sit together every Sunday morning to do online church. The specialness of this time then carries over into an entire morning of relaxing over a wellplanned breakfast. I’ve even learned to make Bloody Marys from scratch! The “stay-at-home” order has definitely slowed down my pace of life. I’ve taken the time to call people I haven’t talked with for a while. I’d like to think the precautions taken by stores and banks have made me a more patient person. Standing in a long line to get into Home Depot or sitting in a line of cars to do my banking makes me appreciate the efforts that service workers are taking to keep me and my loved ones safe. Of course, these economic times are hard on many individuals and businesses… and on our churches. We see it said on TV, on commercial signs, on social media: “We are in this together.” I hope we can take this to heart and believe that everyone is doing the best we can for the health of our community and to come through this pandemic feeling a little closer to each other and to God. Teresa Sekel St. John the Baptist Cathedral Munhall, Pa.
n I have found myself paying more attention to Liturgy on my computer than if I was actually going to Church. I set up my computer with a statue of Jesus alongside it and light a large candle from Mt. Macrina while the Liturgy is ongoing. I usually start with the 9 a.m. Liturgy from
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thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras
the anaphora of st. basil: the coming of our lord The Anaphora of St. Basil tells of the whole story of our relationship with God. The story of the Garden of Eden reveals that as human beings, we have not trusted God, but instead thought that we could achieve glorification by our own efforts. By being unfaithful to the divine plan, “man disobeyed you, the true God who created him; he was led astray by the deceit of the Serpent, and by his own transgressions was subjected to death.” This attitude afflicts the human race to this day, as Frank Sinatra crooned, “I did it my way.” Despite this, God has remained completely faithful to his creation, and “did not turn away from your creature forever.” The first part of the Anaphora tells how God acted to restore it in “his merciful loving-kindness,” by sending prophets and angels and giving “the Law as an aid.” The Anaphora, however, makes clear that this was not the fulfillment of God’s lovingkindness. Though we struggled for communion with God through sacrifice, the full union would not come until Jesus, our Lord and the Messiah. The Epistle to the Hebrews explains, “But in those sacrifices there is only a yearly remembrance of sins” (10:3-4), but in the sacrifice of Christ, “through the blood of Jesus we have confidence of entrance into the sanctuary by the new and living way he opened for us through the veil, that is, his flesh, and ... we have a great priest over the house of God” (10:19-21). To accomplish this, God, in his only-begotten Son, had to take on the human nature, to
become flesh and blood as we are, only without sin (Hebrews 4:15). The Anaphora of St. John Chrysostom expresses this by quoting John 3:16, “You so loved your world that you gave your only-begotten Son so that everyone who believes in him should not perish, but have life everlasting.” This mystery
This entire mystery is proclaimed in the assembly of the Divine Liturgy because it tells us how we, as Christians, should live in Christ. of the Incarnation, therefore, in the very foundation of our faith — not as an assent to certain propositions, but as the very being of our life, and we live and act in the grace of God, which is his transforming love. The Anaphora of St. Basil, then proclaims this same mystery in greater detail, basing himself on the Letters of St. Paul. The coming of Christ in human nature was when “the fullness of time had come” (Galatians 4:4). On the mountain, Moses spoke to God face to face, as a person speaks to a friend (Exodus 33:11), yet adding, “you cannot see my face, for no one can see me and live” (Exodus 33:20). In Jesus, however, God spoke to us through his only Son, “the very one through whom [he] created the ages.” In quoting Hebrews and the Letter to
the Philippians, St. Basil formulates the mystery of the Incarnation in one beautiful paragraph, “Although he is the reflection of your glory and the express image of your person, sustaining all things by his powerful word, he did not deem equality with you, God and Father, something to be grasped; rather, while remaining everlasting God, he appeared on earth and lived among men.” Having proclaimed the mystery of the Incarnation, the Anaphora then describes the consequences of this act, quoting the same Letter of St. Paul to the Philippians, “In becoming incarnate from the holy Virgin, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, conforming himself to the lowliness of our body, that he might conform us to the image of his glory” (Philippians 2:7; 3:21). To state more simply, the Son of God became to human people to serve us like a slave. Slavery was not exactly the same thing then as it later became, but it was still the form of a servant without individual freedom. Jesus himself reaffirmed this, “For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). He gave an example of service by washing the feet of his disciples at the Last Supper, as an example, “I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do. Amen, amen, I say to you, no slave is greater than his master nor any messenger greater than the one who sent him” (John 13:15-16). Again the Anaphora proclaims that the Incarnation was for service to us, to free us from sin, “it pleased your only-begotten
Son .... to be born of a woman ....to be born under the Law (Galatians 4:4), to condemn sin in his flesh (Romans 8:3), so that those who are dead in Adam might be brought to life in him, your Christ.” Jesus, as Son of God, took upon himself the punishment for sin, which is death, so that he could give us life in his resurrection. This entire mystery is proclaimed in the assembly of the Divine Liturgy because it tells us how we, as Christians, should live in Christ. If the Son of God so humbled himself, so too we should live in humility and in a spirit of service to others. This is Jesus’ teaching, “whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all” (Mark 10:43-44). For our Lord, his greatest hour of glory was his death on the Cross in order to give us life. The Letter to the Philippians tells us that humility is the path to glory, “[Christ Jesus] humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name” (Philippians 2:8-9). This is true for all of us, as Jesus reiterated many times, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12, also Luke 14:11 and 18:14). Therefore, whenever we pray the Anaphora with the priest who pronounces it aloud, we again reaffirm our faith in Christ, who alone gives us life and glory, and we promise to walk in the path he has sown us by becoming one of us. n
BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY View Liturgical Services (various times) streamed LIVE online at: St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa. St. John Chrysostom, Pittsburgh, Pa. www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com www.sjcbcc.com Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa. www.youtube.com then type Holy Ghost Church Live Stream
SS. Peter and Paul, Braddock, Pa. https://www.facebook.com/SSPeterPaulBraddock/
St. Elias, Munhall, Pa.
St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa. www.facebook.com/stgregoryusc St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio www.facebook.com/st.michaelsbyz.campbell
www.facebook.com/StEliasByzantineCatholicChurch/
St. Stephen, North Huntingdon, Pa. www.facebook.com/ststephenbyzantinecatholicchurch
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Catholic News Service Newswire
St. Peter’s Basilica reopens to the public faithful, tourists permitted back 10 weeks after basilica closed to the public following italy’s lockdown by Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY — Almost 10 weeks after St. Peter's Basilica was closed to the public in cooperation with Italy's COVID-19 lockdown measures, the faithful and tourists were allowed back in May 18. Pope Francis celebrated Mass at 7 a.m. at the tomb of St. John Paul II to mark the 100th anniversary of the Polish pope's birth. Then, at 8 a.m., the general public was admitted. The basilica was sanitized May 15 in preparation for the reopening. It had been closed to the public since March 10. On the edge of St. Peter's Square, a sign advises visitors they must wear a mask and stay 2 meters (6.5 feet) away from others in order to enter the basilica. The Vatican sanitation service placed hand-sanitizer dispensers at the end of the
colonnade surrounding St. Peter's Square. From there, the public finds "keep your distance" labels and tape on the cobblestone path leading to the health and security checks before entering the basilica. At the end of the path, two members of the Knights of Malta dressed in white, lightweight hazmat suits point a small thermoscanner at the visitor's forehead. If the person does not have a fever, he or she can proceed to the line for the metal detectors. After the security check and before entering the church, visitors find another handsanitizer dispenser. While many of the people attending the Mass celebrated by Pope Francis were not wearing masks, once the celebration was over, Vatican security began enforcing the face-mask requirement and breaking up any situation where it looked like people were standing close
A woman has her temperature checked before entering St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican May 18, 2020, after the basilica reopened to the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. Catholic News Service photo/Remo Casilli, Reuters.
to each other to talk, including journalists trying to interview some of the first people inside. Vatican Media did not show people receiving Communion at the pope's Mass. For the Masses celebrated later that morning, Communion was distributed only in the hand.
Vatican workers with large spray bottles resanitized the altars and pews where Masses were celebrated with the public. Except for the expanded space needed for the line for security checks, St. Peter's Square remained closed. n
At morning mass, Pope offers prayers for unemployed “‘let us pray for these brothers and sisters of ours who are suffering from this lack of work” by Junno Arocho Esteves Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY — As countries continue to reel from the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic, Pope Francis offered prayers for the men and women who have been unable to work. "In these days, many people have lost their jobs, were not rehired or work off the books. Let us pray for these brothers and sisters of ours who are suffering from this lack of work," the pope said May 11 at the start of his Mass in the Domus Sanctae Marthae. The pope's prayer came at a time when jobless rates have skyrocketed as businesses were forced to close their doors due to lockdown measures. According to a Washington Post report May 11, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett said the U.S. unemployment rate "is likely to rise to 20 percent" in June. In his homily at the Mass, the pope reflected on the day's Gospel reading from St. John, in which Jesus promises his disciples the gift of the Holy Spirit who will "teach you
everything and remind you of all that I told you." Referring to Christ's use of the Greek word "Paraclete," which means "advocate," the pope said the Holy Spirit is the one "who supports us, who accompanies us so we won't fall, who holds you firmly." The Holy Spirit's two main tasks, he explained, are to "teach" and "remind" Christians about faith. The Holy Spirit "teaches us. He teaches us the mystery of faith, he teaches us to enter into the mystery, to understand the mystery a bit better," the pope said. "And the Spirit teaches us to grow in the understanding of faith, to understand it more, to understand what faith tells us." Faith, he added, isn't something that remains static but, like a tree, continues to grow and gives fruit. "The Holy Spirit prevents doctrine from being mistaken, it prevents it from standing still without growing in us," he said. "He will teach us the things that Jesus taught us, he will develop in us an understanding of what Jesus taught us and will make the Lord's doctrine grow
Pope Francis elevates the Eucharist as he celebrates Mass in the chapel of his residence, the Domus Sanctae Marthae, at the Vatican May 11, 2020. The pope prayed for the unemployed as countries continue to reel from the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic. Catholic News Service photo/Vatican Media.
within us until it is mature." The Spirit's second task, he continued, is to remind us of Jesus' teachings and "is like a memory, it awakens us." "He keeps us awake, he awakens us to the things of the Lord, he helps us remember our own lives," including the times when one has chosen to follow or leave the Lord, the pope said. Pope Francis encouraged
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Christians to trust in the Holy Spirit who guides all people to discern what is right and wrong and is "God's gift" to all. "The Spirit is the gift," he said. God "will not leave you alone, he will send you the Paraclete who will sustain you and help you to go forward, to remember, to discern and to grow. God's gift is the Holy Spirit." n
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around the archeparchy FAITH & FUN DAY — Faith & Fun Day 2020 is canceled. Thank you to all servers for your continued dedication and for serving. We look forward to next year's Faith & Fun Day.
“How are you?” continued from page 13 the Cathedral and follow it up with the Liturgy from SS. Peter and Paul in Braddock, Pa. (the church I grew up in). So yes, I spend more time in “church” now than when I actually went to church. I also had my Easter basket blessed online. However, I miss our Pastor and cantor’s singing and the camaraderie of my fellow parishioners. Mary Ann Badar St. Nicholas, Greensburg, Pa
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BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY Sundays 9:00 a.m. • WEDO Radio • 810 AM Broadcast live from Holy Ghost Church, McKees Rocks
Also view liturgical services (various times) at: www.holyghost-byzantinecatholic.org www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com www.sjcbcc.com
Like everyone else, Sam and I have been watching Liturgy and other services online. I hooked our computer up to our big TV screen so it was easier to watch. We visited different parishes, so that made it interesting. Since I am a reader in my parish, to make it more personal I muted the verses and epistle and chanted them myself. We did our morning prayers together then played a word game to help keep our minds sharp. Sam kept busy sending out ordination anniversary cards from the Serra Club to priests. (May and June are the most popular.) My Book Club met twice on Zoom. Sam and I did Facetime with our grandson in Maine and when we took our walks on our
dates to remember JUNE 21 Father’s Day JUNE 24 Feast of the Birth of the Forerunner John the Baptist JUNE 29 Feast of the Preeminent Apostles Peter and Paul JULY 4 Independence Day — National Observance
See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org
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street, I called the grandchildren who live on our street and they hung out their windows to talk to us. I started making masks to donate through Gloria Horn Sewing Store in Castle Shannon then decided to see what needed done around my own area. With the help of my daughter, Tania Wood, we made them for police, firefighters, EMTs and a local nursing home. We also sold some to help defray the cost of making them. Since I began making them, my daughter and I have sewn over 400 masks. We have certainly started moving at a slower pace and enjoy each moment as it comes. Marylyn Barone Holy Trinity, Wall, Pa.
n The most difficult part of social distancing during this pandemic was not being able to physically attend Divine Liturgy, Holy Week Services, Easter, and Bright Week services. For me, the ability to watch services livestreamed on Facebook was a blessing, as well as a source of comfort and hope. Thank you to all the priests, especially Father Kevin Marks, the cantors, and the servers who brought Divine Liturgy into our homes during these difficult times. Betty Zombar SS. Peter and Paul, Warren Ohio
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