BCW VOL. 65 NO. 8 AUGUST 2020

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THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHEPARCHY OF PITTSBURGH

blessing of vehicles Priests, faithful of the Archeparchy celebrate the Feast of Elijah Pages 9 to 10

Inside

VOL. 65 NO. 8

young adult retreat Annual retreat sponsored by Sisters of St. Basil the Great goes virtual Page 12

Taking another step

Archbishop William Skurla (left) ordains seminarians Kyprian Wojiciechowski and Robert Jones to the Sub-diaconate July 12 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Robert was also ordained to the Diaconate, At right is seminarian John Welch. For more photos, see pages 6 to 7. Photo by Nick Havrilla Sr.

seminarians kyprian wojiciechowski, robert jones ordained to sub-diaconate at st. john the baptist cathedral Third-year seminarians Lector Robert Jones and Lector Kyprian Wojciechowski were ordained to the order of Sub-diaconate by Archbishop William Skurla during an afternoon Divine Liturgy on Sunday, July 12 at St. John Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. He also ordained then-Sub-Deacon Robert to the Diaconate. Concelebrating with Archbishop William for the liturgy and ordinations were Very Rev. Robert M. Pipta, Rector of SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pa.; and Rev. Father Kevin E. Marks, Director of

Vocations for the Archeparchy. Very Reverend Andrew J. Deskevich served as Master of Ceremonies and altar servers Martin Bovee and Seminarians John Welch and Luke Iyengar assisted. George Janocsko, cantor of the cathedral, led the singing of the congregational responses. In his homily, Archbishop William noted the emotional upheaval of the time in which we are living because of virus restrictions and social unrest. He emphasized the message of the Lord’s call to different vocations from the Epistle reading, and he also referred

to the Gospel which taught of Jesus, the healer of bodies and souls. During their journey to the priesthood and beyond, Robert and Kyprian are called to reach out to others with that same care. Though other clergy, family and friends were able to come and share the joy of the newly ordained, attendance was limited because of the restrictions of the coronavirus pandemic. The liturgy was livestreamed for those at home throughout the Archeparchy and beyond. n

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basilian sisters community gathering Sisters come together at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. Page 15

eternal memory

most rev. milan Sašik cm, bishop of the eparchy of mukachevo Most Rev. Milan Sašik C.M., the Slovak-born Ruthenian Catholic Bishop of the Eparchy of Mukachevo Transcarpathia Ukraine, fell asleep in the Lord unexpectedly on July 14. Bishop Milan was born into a Latin Catholic family on September 17, 1952 in the village of Lehota in Slovakia. During his theological studies at the Major Seminary in Bratislava, he joined the Vincentian Community of Lazarists (Congregation of the Mission). After his ordination to the priesthood on June 6, 1976, he served several Latin parishes in Slovakia. From 1990 to 1992, Bishop Milan studied at the Pontifical Institute Terasinium in Rome where he earned the Licentiate Degree. On Oct. 5, 1992, he began working at the Apostolic Nunciature in Kiev, Ukraine, a responsibility he fulfilled until he was appointed bishop. He, together with Bishop Jan Babyak S.J. of the Eparchy of Prešov, Slovakia, was ordained to the Episcopacy by Pope John Paul II in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome on January 6, 2003. After ordination he was first named the Apostolic Story continued on page 2

Most Rev. Milan Sašik CM, Bishop of the Eparchy of Mukachevo


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eternal memory

most rev. milan sasik cm, bishop of the eparchy of mukachevo

continued from page 1 UPS 081500 ISSN 07442289 Official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh Serving parish communities in central and western Pennsylvania, Louisiana, eastern Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and West Virginia Published monthly (12 issues) plus two seasonal special issues Byzantine Catholic Press Associates 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Tel: 412.231.4000 Fax: 412.231.1697 E-mail: bcw@archpitt.org Web site: www.archpitt.org Archbishop William C. Skurla President David Mayernik Jr. Editor Sister Elaine Kisinko, OSBM Copy Editor 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.

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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 times; and to celebrate community among Byzantine Catholics in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, throughout the Metropolitan Church in America, and around the world.

Administrator of Mukachevo. He was appointed its Eparchial Bishop on March 17, 2010. A charismatic personality, Bishop Milan worked tirelessly to restore the Church of his Eparchy. He succeeded in creating functioning administrative structures and in both rebuilding and erecting many new parish churches. Dear to his heart was the Eparchial seminary, and he spoke with great gratitude of ordaining 200 priests — calling them spiritual sons — during

his tenure as bishop. Bishop Milan came to visit America several times, the last occasion being his participation in the anniversary celebrations of Parma and Pittsburgh in June of last year. He graciously gave permission to the eight priests from his Eparchy who are now serving in the Eparchy of Pittsburgh as well as his priests who are serving in the other Eparchies in the United States to come and minister here. Bishop Milan’s body lay in

Tributes European priests of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh We received very sad news July 14 that Bishop Milan Šašik passed away unexpectedly and went “home” to our Heavenly Father. Bishop Milan was not only a bishop and administrator of the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Mukachevo but also for many of us — priests, monks, nuns and lay people — our spiritual father. He was a father who loved us, forgave our mistakes, corrected us, inspired us, and taught us by word and example. For me, Bishop Milan remains a wonderful example of the service and great love all of us should have for our merciful God and to His Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. I recall the many times I met him at various airports in the United States and in Italy. And the first thing he wanted to do, even after a long flight of 20 or more hours, was to celebrate the Divine Liturgy. He used to tell me, “Father Vasyl, I did not serve a Divine Liturgy yet today so that’s the first thing I want to do.” Bishop Milan served his last earthly Divine Liturgy for the Byzantine Catholic Church in the United States for all of our bishops, priests, religious groups and believers. Now from heaven, I am sure he continues to pray for us. So the least we can do is to continue to pray for him. In blessed repose, grant O Lord eternal rest to your departed servant Bishop Milan and remember him forever. Amen. Father Vasyl Symyon Assumption of the Mother of God, Weirton, W.V.; Saint John the Baptist, Avella, Pa.

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I have been praying for bishop Milan during my every Liturgy over 17 years. I have received the sacrament of priesthood from his hands and because of his mercy. I had been seeing him almost

every day as an assistant at Uzhgorod Cathedral. Also we had been working altogether as a President and Director of the "Caritas" beneficial foundation of the Mukachevo diocese. Bishop Milan was constantly dedicated to our diocese and his flock. He had time for everything and everybody. He took care of the smallest parish as well as a big one. I remember his schedules. Pretty often he visited three parishes in one Sunday. He just sacrificed himself totally to Christ, Church and faithful of his diocese. Unfortunately, I will not be able to mention him among the living anymore but among the departed. But I am sure we all got one more patron at the heavenly kingdom with his passing away. Eternal memory to you, Your Grace, and blessed repose! Father Vasyl Polyak Saint John the Baptist, Northern Cambria, Pa.; SS. Peter and Paul, Patton, Pa.

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When we learned about the death of our Bishop Milan, at first I didn't believe it to be the truth. Then shock and emptiness. After that, I realized what influence on my life he had. Personally for me, Bishop Milan was a father. He, as a man, as a Bishop was merciful, loving, righteous, careful, attentive to the needs of his people. From him you could learn a lot, and most importantly: constant prayer and tireless work, sanctificing himself completely. Unfortunately, I will never hear from him again his "How are you doing there?" But I live in hope that we will meet again in a House of our Heavenly Father. Thank you, Bishop Milan. Eternal memory. Father Oleh Seremchuk Saint John the Baptist, Scottdale, Pa.; Saint Nicholas, Perryopolis, Pa.

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state at his beloved Seminary of Blessed Theodore Romza, on Sunday, July 19, 2020. A Divine Liturgy was celebrated there. On Monday, July 20, the funeral Divine Liturgy was celebrated at his Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Uzhgorod. Interment followed in the crypt of the cathedral. In blessed repose, grant O Lord eternal rest to your departed servant bishop Milan and remember him forever! n

Will of Bishop +Milan Šašik, CM, Diocesan Bishop of the Mukachevo Diocese In the Name of the Holy Trinity! In these days, when many people are full of worries about the coronavirus, I realized that I, the Bishop, had not made a will. I consider it my duty to write my last will. I realize that I am nearing the end of my earthly life every day; but, I believe in eternal life! First of all, I ask the merciful Lord God for mercy on my soul, and I regret everything I have offended Him with: thoughts, words, deeds, or neglect of good. And I apologize to you, my brothers in the priesthood, and to all of you, brothers and sisters, for everything, whether for not being a good example for you, or for the fact that I lacked love for you. Although I tried to be a good shepherd for you, I know that quite often my inflammatory character was manifested and I did not control my anger and negative emotions. I have also repeatedly condemned others or spoken badly about them. Please forgive me and pray for me. In common sense and with a conscious remembrance, I declare that everything that belongs to me becomes the property of the Greek Catholic Diocese of Mukachevo. Personal photos can be destroyed if they are not suitable for archiving. I leave the books for the diocesan library. The parish house in Lumshory, which was built at my own expense, is the property of the Greek Catholic Diocese of Mukachevo, so that my successors can also have a place to rest. I leave all personal liturgical items and liturgical vestments to my successors as the property of the Mukachevo Greek Catholic Diocese. Distribute my cassocks and riasas to those who need them. Personal clothing as well. I realize that "I have not brought anything into this world and I will not take anything from it." Nevertheless, I ask you to clothe me to the coffin in the liturgical robe of my ordination to the episcopate. If you need a mitre (crown), then some worn out one, which is not a pity. No ring on my hand, no panagia, only a wooden one, with a metal icon of Our Lady of Mariapoch, and put a rosary in my hands! Please bury me in the crypt under the Cathedral, above the place where my predecessor, our Blessed +Theodore Romzha, was buried. I ask everyone to pray for me that the Lord will accept me into His Kingdom. Uzhhorod, 14 March 2020, from the Nativity of Christ.


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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 St. Elias Munhall, Pa. www.facebook.com/ StEliasByzantine CatholicChurch/ n 9 a.m. Sunday

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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. Michael Hermitage, Pa. St. Stephen https://www.facebook.com/ North Huntingdon, Pa. stmichaelbyz.hermitage www.facebook.com/ ststephenbyzantinecatholicchurch n 4 p.m. Saturday n 10:30 a.m. Sunday n 9 a.m. Sunday

Note: check parish websites for schedule of Divine Services

Cleaning day Bulletin Board

Byzantine Catholic Seminary re-opens to public

Metropolitan William Skurla and the Byzantione Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh will be celebrating all those couples celebrating milestone wedding anniversaries of 10, 25, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 and beyond years during this calendar year of 2020. The tentative, in-person celebration is set for 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13. More details will follow if the in-person celebration can take place. n

by metropolitan archbishop william

July 7, 2020: • Reverend Mykhaylo Farynets excardinated from the Eparchy of Mukachevo and accepted for incardination into the Archeparchy. July 27, 2020 • Reverend Christiaan Kappes relieved at his own request as pastor of SS. Peter and Paul Church, Tarentum, Pa. • Very Reverend Vasyl Polyak relieved as pastor of St. John Church, Northern Cambria and Administrator of SS. Peter and Paul Church, Patton, and appointed pastor of SS. Peter and Paul Church, Tarentum, all in Pennsylvania.

With Pennsylvania now in the Green Phase, the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius is open to guests, particularly those who wish to visit the chapel as well as the library for the annual Book Sale. Visitors should call in advance at 412-321-8383. All are welcome between now and Aug. 14. Resident seminarians return to campus Aug. 14. After that, due to pandemic guidelines, visitors will be restricted to relatives of Seminary residents, staff, and faculty only. n

A Celebration of Marriage

official appointments

• Reverend Edward J. Pyo appointed for the liturgical services and spiritual needs of the faithful of SS. Peter and Paul Church, Patton, and St. John Church, Northern Cambria. • Deacon Raymond J. Zadzilko appointed administrator of SS. Peter and Paul Church, Patton, and St. John Church, Northern Cambria. The Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius in Pittsburgh, Pa. received a washing June 26, as workers sprayed water near its onion dome.

Religious Gift Shop at Mount St. Macrina reopens The Religious Gift Shop at Mount St. Macrina is now open 12:30-3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Further announcements will be made regarding any changes. Please stay tuned and thank you for your continued support. You are required to wear a mask while shopping at the Religious Gift Shop and please

maintain social distance. For further information, call 724-439-6180. n

Volunteers needed at Mount St. Macrina The Sisters of St. Basil the Great cancelled this year’s Helping Hands Day, originally scheduled for June 6, but volunteers are still needed for outside and inside work. For information, call Siser Joanne Lickvar at 724-4388644.

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• Very Reverend Vasyl Polyak relieved as Protopresbyter of the Johnstown Protopresbyterate. • Very Reverend James A. Spontak appointed Protopresbyter of the Johnstown Protopresbyterate. • Very Reverend Ronald P. Larko relieved as Chancellor of the Archeparchy. • Very Reverend Vasyl Polyak appointed Chancellor of the Archeparchy. n


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reflection from weirton, w .va.

The First Commandment: You shall not make for yourself an idol By Father Vasyl Symyon Assumption of the Mother of God, Weirton, W.V.; Saint John the Baptist, Avella, Pa.

Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory Forever! The Ten Commandments are the basis of our Christian morality and our moral behavior. The commandments are God’s divine laws, unchangeable, given for humanity’s sake once and forever. Therefore, the importance of explaining them, studying them and remembering them should be obvious to every Christian. Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, in my last article I explained the First Commandment in general as well as in its theological context (Who is my God?). In this article I will reflect on the second part of the First Commandment: 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 (Exodus 20, 2-5). We refer to this part of the First Commandment as Pastoral (How do I believe in my Lord?). This part of the First Commandment strictly prohibits us from creating an idol of any kind. An idol is biblically defined as a created image or representation of a god used as an object of worship. An idol is something that distracts a person from our living God. Something that invites affection and passion. Something a person can serve, given the time or the money. When a person makes an idol for himself, he overlooks — perhaps abandons — Almighty God. When a person creates, worships and serves an idol, he commits one of the greatest mortal sins — Idolatry, which can vary in kind. A Catholic, for example, is guilty of idolatry when he practices other religions such as Buddhism, Freemasonry or New Age; when he practices divinations, fortune telling, sortilege, etc. A person also creates an idol when he serves himself as a cult of his own “I.” Some examples of “I” idols include deriving pleasures for the body; living only for money, career and riches; and stark addictions to gambling, sports, computer games, internet or even to social media.

Why do people have so many idols? Why do people create idols that detract them from God? For them, in my opinion, the problem lies in their faith and in how they believe in God. Without God at the center of their lives, they resort to adoring and revering false gods. Sadly, it has become a great crisis of spiritual faith in today’s world and in our country. Sadly, many Catholics do not

Many Catholics offer different excuses for spurning church. They say they do not like a pastor, a bishop or a cardinal. They say the Catholic Church has become old-fashioned. They say church rules do not have any meaning in today’s modern world. Yes, some people always are looking for an excuse to not attend church. But read some of these excuses! You mean their faith depends on a pastor, a bishop

attend liturgy/mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation. They stay at home to relax from an exhausting workday or work week. Yet their fatigue does not prevent them from going to sporting events, the beach, swimming pools, golf courses, restaurants and other recreational venues. Sadly, some Catholics quit the church entirely or switch to another “religious community,” such as nondenominational churches. Sadly, some Catholics believe neither in the significance of the Holy Eucharist nor the Holy Mystery of Confession. Sadly, some Catholics attend church only on Christmas and Easter. Only for baptisms, weddings and funerals. Only during a time of crisis, such as 9/11.

or a cardinal? Really? Faith is a very intimate and personal relationship with God, and I have a great responsibility for sharing that faith and instilling that faith among my parishioners! When we pray the Apostles Creed, we pray “I believe” in God, the Father Almighty! “I believe” in Jesus Christ who suffered, was crucified and is risen from the dead! “I believe” in the Virgin Mary! “I believe” in the Holy Spirit, the Lord and Creator of Life! “I believe” in one Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church! This is what we believe! This is the basis of our faith! And no person or idol can separate us from God if we practice that hearty faith daily. Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, all of us have a great

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responsibility for maintaining our faith, one that requires constant care and attention. If our hearts do not burn with love for God, it could turn us to suffer an emptiness only to be replaced by idols such as money, sports, gambling and the occult. Our faith depends on the attention we give it. Ask yourselves: How often do I read the Holy Bible? How often do I pray? How often do I attend the Divine Liturgy, especially on Sundays and holy days? How often do I receive the Most Precious Body and Blood of Jesus Christ? How often do I go to confession? The answers to these questions could mean the difference in growing your faith or losing it. Let me offer a special message to all parents and grandparents. You have a great responsibility in shaping the faith of your children and grandchildren. The family is the first church, a place where all meet God for the first time. The family is the church where all members can grow in faith and in holiness. Priests meet with their parishioners for about one hour per week (if we are lucky) and have a chance to speak with them for only 10 to 12 minutes during their homilies. Perhaps for a few minutes during the post-liturgy social. The rest of the time is left to family gatherings, work and school weeks, vacations, children’s events, etc. Therefore, priests must rely on parents and grandparents to teach children and grandchildren how to pray and to educate them on the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Please do not think the children will learn everything during ECF classes. The family is the first classroom of catechism classes and of the faith. Dear parents and grandparents, please be a good example of strong faith, of living a sincere spiritual life, of frequently making a fervent confession and attending church. Please pray together. Do not be indifferent. Religious indifference within the family breeds the crisis of faith in the Catholic Church. I hope and pray all of our families will become “Holy Home Churches.” Slava Isusu Christu! Slava Na Viki! n


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text messages

reflection from mount st. macrina

‘Cause you’ve got personality

A gift greater than one could imagine

by David Mayernik Jr. Editor

by Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick, OSBM Sisters of St. Basil the Great Mount St. Macrina, Uniontown, Pa.

I’ve spent a lot of time over the past few COVID-19quarantined m o n t h s watching episodes of “The Waltons.” I’ve discovered one of the more interesting and complicated relationships in the show is that of Grandma and Grandpa Walton. Esther Walton is practical and stubborn while her husband Zebulon lives for the surprises life could offer (as well as partaking of the Baldwin sisters’ “recipe”). Their distinct personalities are starkly drawn when Mary Ellen announces her engagement to David Spencer in the middle of the night. Grandma’s only words are “Oh no...” while Grandpa lets out a hearty “Whoopee!” Despite their separate personalities, somehow Esther and Zeb not only appreciated each other’s differences but loved each other for decades. (Even if Esther had to let out a “You old fool!” under her breath in Zeb’s direction every once in a while.) Sure, it’s only a television show but lessons can be learned from their relationship. Father Valerian Michlik’s July 12 homily made me think of the couple. He discussed how different

personalities are all integral parts in the life of the Church. The Sunday reading was the Healing of the Paralyzed Man from the Gospel of St. Matthew, St. Matthew says the reaction of the witnesses to the miracle ranged from, the majority being both happy and shocked and a smaller group of teachers of law being unhappy and “having evil thoughts in their hearts” Father Valerian broke down people’s different personalities into three categories: n Bold and outgoing vs. shy n Task-oriented vs. peopleoriented n Variety vs. routine He said all of these different personalities are important. “All our personalities stand as evidence of God’s image and likeness in all of us,” he said. “All are valuable in the life of the church.’ I also think it’s proof all these different personalities can get along in the service of the greater good. And, goodness knows, we have a lot different personalities these days. “With our personalities we make the life of the church beautiful,” Father Valerian said. “All these personalities keep the church alive and we need them to grow in Christ.” Nike’s former promotional slogan was: “Be Like Mike.” In my interactions with others, I prefer to endeavor to “Be Like Zeb and Esther.” n

Will Geer and Ellen Corby portrayed Grandpa and Grandma Walton on CBS-TV’s “The Waltons.”

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 Sept. 21, 2019 reflection. Glory to Jesus Christ! Have you ever received a gift from someone that was way more than you could have expected from that person? What did it make you feel? What did it make you think and feel about the person, the giver? That's somewhat of what happened in the Gospel I am centering on, Luke 5:1-11, The Miraculous Catch of Fish. Some people write this off as a vocations story because it ends with the apostles leaving all and following Jesus. Well, the fishermen only later become apostles as they reach out with the gift of salvation Jesus has brought. This beautiful story we can easily picture: Jesus preaching near the sea; so many people

Fishermen icon

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He asks Simon if He can use his boat and preach just off the shore to a large crowd. Afterward, Jesus and the fishermen are alone and Jesus says, "Put out into the deep water. Go fishing." Peter says, "Well, we did that all night and there wasn't anything. But since you said to do it, I'll do that." He must have been inspired by that preaching. So, Peter and the men go to do this deep-sea fishing in the Lake of Gennesaret and catch more fish than one boat can handle. It's in two boats and they're almost sinking because of the weight of this great catch. They are astonished, the Gospel says, and they, hopefully, are thankful. Peter says, "I'm too sinful to be near someone like You." Jesus invites them at this time — Peter, probably Andrew, James, John. He asks them to stay with Him; these simple fishermen. He invites them to that encounter, a lifelong one. He invites us, too. How do we respond to a gift greater than one could ever imagine? How are you responding to the One who says, "You will stay with Me, you will bear fruit with Me. Come?" God bless you. n


parish news AUGUST 2020

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st. john the baptist cathedral in munhall, pa.

Ordained to the sub-diaconate Archbishop William ordained third-year seminarians Lector Robert Jones and Lector Kyprian Wojciechowski to the order of Sub-diaconate during an afternoon Divine Liturgy on July 12, 2020 at St. John Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. He also ordained then SubDeacon Robert Jones to the Diaconate. See story on Page 1. n

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Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr. the byzantine catholic world


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st. john the baptist cathedral in munhall, pa.

Cruise control St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. held its first Car Cruise of the season June 30. Parishioners practiced social distancing as well as vehicles — no fender touched another fender. n

Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.

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parish news

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Blessing of vehicles st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa. by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.

The Sunday of the Fathers of the Six Ecumenical Sundays, on July 19, was special in our St. Gregory parish family. As a community of faithful we witnessed the newly ordained Father Deacon Robert Jones serve for the first time, in his liturgical role as a deacon at St.

Gregory’s. At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy a replica of our Anniversary Icon was presented to Father Deacon Robert and his wife Elizabeth. Following the Divine Liturgy, we had the blessing of vehicles in anticipation of the feast of holy and glorious prophet Elijah. n

st. mary church of the dormition in windber, pa. Father Ivan Rusyn blessed vehicles in celebration of Feast of St. Elijah at St. Mary Church of the Dormition in Windber, Pa.

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parish news

st. michael in campbell, ohio by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio

The Solemn Blessing of Cars took place the weekend of July 18 to 19 in honor of St. Elias the Prophet.

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st. elias in munhall, pa.

The blessing is to ensure God's protection on the car and to preserve it from all evil. Thanks to all who participated in this wonderful blessing! n

Father Vitalii Stashkevych blessed vehicles on the patronal Feast of St. Elias at St. Elias Church in Munhall, Pa. Mosaics and stained glass icons of St. Elias are from the exterior of the church. n

holy trinity in sykesville, pa. by Deacon Luke Crawford Holy Trinity, Sykesville, Pa.

In honor of the Feast of the Holy Prophet Elias, parishioners of Holy Trinity in Sykesville Pa. celebrated Divine Liturgy and then had the special blessing of vehicles performed by Father Vasyl

Banyk. Many parishioners look forward to this blessing every year. Parishioner Ron Kennis said that he gets his tractor trailer rig blessed each year. (below). The blessing gives him a sense of peace as he is driving over the road. n

church of the resurrection in monroeville, pa. Father Don Bolls blessed vehicles in celebration of Feast of St. Elias at Church of the Resurrection in Monroeville, Pa. n

Photos by Michele Yamrick

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nativity of the mother of god in dubois, pa.

st. nicholas in greensburg, pa

50 years of love

Celebrating Sue’s 100th!

by Amy Fatula Nativity of the Mother of God, DuBois, Pa.

by Jay Gomolak St. Nicholas, Greensburg, Pa.

Deacon George and Renetta Fatula will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary Aug. 22. They were united in marriage in 1970 at SS. Peter and Paul in Duquesne, Pa. They moved their family to DuBois, Pa. in 1974 where Dr. Fatula opened his pediatric practice. He retired in 2019 after practicing for more than 45 years. In DuBois, they became members and leaders in the Nativity of the Mother of God Church. Renetta was a religious educator for decades and a dedicated bingo worker. George was ordained as a Deacon in 2003 and was known for calling bingo every Wednesday night. They have been blessed with

Following the July 19 Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas in Greensburg, Pa, where the Rev. Regis Dusecina is pastor, a group of parishioners walked over to the parish house where Father Regis' mother Sue was sitting. On July 22, Sue celebrated

her 100th birthday. The group went over to sing “Happy Birthday” and “God Grant Her Many Years,” led by cantor Andy Regalla. Because of the virus, everyone wore masks. She was happy to see everyone and we were delighted to celebrate this milestone birthday with her. n

Deacon George and Renetta Fatula

five children: George Jr. (Amy) of DuBois, Renetta (Neil) of Maryland, Ed (Angela) of Maryland, Dan (Crystal) of DuBois, and Tara (Matt) of North Carolina. Their family has also grown to include eight grandchildren: Kayla, Laura, Keith, Margaret, Alex, Maya, Ben, and Andrew. n

ss. peter and paul in warren, ohio

Feast Day Celebration by Sister Barbara Pavlik, OSB SS. Peter and Paul, Warren, Ohio

This has been a very strange year for all of us! The COVID-19 pandemic has run havoc with our normal lives, with our worship services and with our celebrations. It has provided us with many challenges and a lot of ingenuity to surmount those challenges. When there is a “need to celebrate,” there is always someone who will find an ingenious way to celebrate an occasion while still obeying the state/county mandates. SS. Peter & Paul Parish in Warren, Ohio has been blessed with such people. The celebration of our Parish Feast Day is a “big deal” for us and the festivities are always a first class event! So, it was

a bit disappointing when the banquet hall festivities had to be cancelled. However, due to the optimism and hard work of a few parishioners under the leadership of Patricia James and Father Simeon Sibenik, we had a beautiful celebration. The church social hall was beautifully decorated. The meal was superb, down to the homemade strawberry pie. Parishioners were given the opportunity to “dine-in or carry out.” The opportunity for a little socializing, while observing social distancing and local mandates, was greatly appreciated! Our “kudos” to Pat James and “company of friends” who made it all possible to celebrate “together”! n

st. nicholas in brownsville, pa.

Memorial gift by Bernie Karoffa St. Nicholas, Greensburg, Pa.

Father Christopher Burke of St. Nicholas in Brownsville, Pa. holds a tetrapod cross donated by Mary Ann Washlock, her daughter Natalie Washlock of Hinckley, Ohio and relative Mary Ann Conti of Pittsburgh, Pa. The cross was purchased from Greece and blessed by Father Jan Cizmar, pastor of St. Emiliam Church in Brunswick, Ohio in Parma Eparchy. This cross was donated in memory of Mary Ann’s mother, Julia (Dirda) Loya, who was a life-long parishioner of St. Nicholas in Brownsville, Pa. Julia passed away and was

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buried by Father jerome Botsko in June 2002. Eternal memory and blessed repose to the servant Julia! n


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AUGUST 2020

Virtual Young Adult Retreat global pandemic doesn’t slow retreat sponsored by sisters of st. basil the great by David Donohoe St. Mary, Cleveland, Ohio

Even a global pandemic couldn’t stop a group of young adults from participating in a retreat. The annual Young Adult Retreat was scheduled to be held from June 26 to 28 at the House of Prayer at the beautiful grounds of Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic the House of Prayer canceled its in-person events. However, thanks to technology and the internet, the retreat still went on through Zoom video conferencing. The retreat was titled “Authentic Discipleship: Responding to Christ’s Call in the Post-Modern World.” It drew much of its inspiration from Kevin Cotter’s book, “Called: Becoming an Everyday Disciple in a PostChristian World.” Discipleship and evangelization were the primary themes of discussion throughout the weekend. A team of young adults joined Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick, OSBM, in planning the retreat weekend. The young adult retreat team included Sam Tima; siblings Emily, Katie, and Jonathan Breda; Kevin Barry; and David Donohoe. They went to the retreat in previous years and wanted to lead their peers into a deeper encounter and enjoy fellowship with fellow young adult Catholics. The team spends months of preparation and planning, including having regular Zoom meetings, reading through Kevin Cotter’s book, advertising the event, and much prayer. The retreat included five talks given by the retreat team leaders, Compline, livestreamed Vespers, a virtual Emmaus walk, Morning Prayer, a game of Catholic jeopardy, an ice cream social, and an icebreaker activity. Father Will Rupp, director of spiritual formation at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius in Pittsburgh, Pa., was kind enough to speak to forming a prayer rule and showed us his own personal icon corner. Because of the online platform, the retreat attracted young people outside the

This year’s Young Adult Retreat, sponsored by the Sisters of St. Basil the Great, went virtual this year.

western Pennsylvania region. Retreatants came from as far south as Florida, as far east as the New Jersey shore, and as far west as the central Ohio area. Participants were unanimous that they enjoyed the retreat and they were spiritually enriched. Some comments included, “Getting to spend a weekend with like minded young adults is always spiritually refreshing. “I particularly enjoyed the discussion time throughout the weekend and it was a great way to connect with others around my age who are spiritually focused. I also think the sessions help make discipleship seem like something that is truly possible today.” n

Anyone home?

The SIsters of St. Basil the Great posted this photo of a fowl visitor July 21 at the House of Prayer. “Maybe he had a prayer request!,” posted one Facebook commentor.

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PAGE 13

eternal memory carl fuhrman, m.d. Carl Fuhrman, M.D., 67, of Pittsburgh, Pa., passed away on June 27 at UPMC Presbyterian. He was born in Erie, Pa., on August 11, 1952, to the late Carl and Ann (Voleski) Fuhrman. He is survived by three sisters, Barbara Pugel (late Lud Pugel) of Cleveland, Ohio, Mary McIlroy (Bill) of Huntingdon, Pa. and Carol Hagen of Tucson, Ariz.; nieces, Stacey Serafini (Chris) and Elizabeth Pugel Runevitch (Scott); nephews, Paul Hagen (Laura), Jeff Pugel (Alina) and John McIlroy (Katie); great-niece, Sophia Pugel; and great-nephews, Will Pugel and John McIlroy. Carl was a long-time member of Holy Spirit in Oakland, Pa. and an active member of the Byzantine Catholic Serra Club. Carl graduated from Cathedral Prep in Erie, Pa. in 1970 and completed his medical education and training at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, graduating Cum Laude in 1979, and completed a residency in diagnostic radiology in 1983. He became an assistant professor in radiology at the University of Pittsburgh, rising through the ranks to reach full professor in 1994. Carl was chief of thoracic radiology, a position he held almost continuously for the past 27 years. He was a leader in the field of thoracic radiology. Through his clinical work and research activities, made substantial contributions to the imaging of lung diseases, including emphysema, lung cancer and interstitial lung disease.

As a highly respected radiologist, Carl was frequently invited to give lectures both in the United States and abroad and served as a visiting professor at multiple institutions. His commitment to patient care and his teaching ability were recognized and he was named to the prestigious 2014 and 2018 "Best Doctors in America" list; an honor reserved for the top 5% of U.S. doctors as decided by peer review. His teaching ability was highly recognized; and he was the recipient of the Ronald J. Hoy Excellence in Teaching Award from the department of radiology, a total of 15 times. In 2016, the Ronald J. Hoy Excellence in Teaching Award transitioned to the Carl R. Fuhrman Excellence in Teaching Award to recognize Carl's passion and dedication to educating the next generation of radiologists. Carl's teaching contributions were recognized by medical departments outside of Radiology and Carl won the University of Pittsburgh Golden Apple Award nine times. Presented by the senior medical class each year, this award recognizes the faculty member chosen by the students as their best teacher. The Office of the Provost bestowed Carl with the President's Distinguished Teaching Award, deemed the highest teaching award at the University of Pittsburgh. Carl served as the Director of Undergraduate Medical Education. He directed the medical school Advanced

Radiology Course and codirected the Anatomy Life Science Course. Carl served on a wide array of committees that served both the hospital and the University of Pittsburgh Medical School. He recently completed his tenure as the President of Alliance of Medical Student Educators in Radiology (AMSER). He enjoyed his extensive travels and meeting people during his time at conferences and lectures. In addition to his devotion to radiology, he enjoyed photography, his Corvette, and his family. Carl was a dedicated and loving son, brother, and uncle. A funeral mass was held July 9 at St. Luke Church in Erie, Pa. Private interment was held at Calvary Cemetery. In addition to the funeral mass in Erie, a memorial service was held for Carl in Pittsburgh at UPMC Presbyterian on July 15 outside of the hospital. At a future date, the family will host a memorial service in Erie, Pa. to celebrate Carl's life with friends and family. In memory of Carl, a Radiology Education Fund has been established. To make a donation to the fund, checks should be made payable to UPMC with a note in the memo section that reads "Carl Fuhrman Radiology Education Fund (MH866)" and addressed to the Division of Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement, UPMC / University of Pittsburgh, 128 North Craig St, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15260. n

Carl Fuhrman, M.D.

Tribute "We remember Dr. Carl Fuhrman as a devout Catholic, having been raised in the Byzantine rite, and a long-time member of Holy Spirit in Oakland since he attended the University of Pittsburgh as a student. Carl was a good friend and an active parishioner who never hesitated to volunteer when help was needed, and he was a member of the Serra Club. His sudden passing leaves a giant hole in our church family and we will miss him greatly. May God grant him Blessed Repose and Eternal Memory." Mary Dzurichko Holy Spirit, Oakland (Pittsburgh), Pa.

eternal memory

patricia ann morovich Patricia Ann Morovich, a dedicated member of the Byzantine Catholic Serra Club of Pittsburgh, passed away unexpectedly on May 31, 2020. She was the daughter of the late Margaret and Michael Hnatiow and grew up in Ford City, Pa., where her father was the cantor at St. Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church. Patricia was the wife of the late Stephen Morovich for 47 years. She retired from a career at the Federal Reserve Bank in Pittsburgh. For many years, Pat coordinated and conducted a Sleep Apnea Support Group that met at various hospitals in the Pittsburgh area.

Pat was a faithful member of St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church in Upper St. Clair since 1979. She was active in church beautification projects and fundraisers, especially the kielbasa sales where she enjoyed being one of the top sellers. Pat was a member of St. Gregory’s Bethany Ministry, where she especially used her talents for crocheting. She loved spending time crocheting prayer shawls and lap robes. After being blessed by the parish priest, Bethany Ministry members were able to give them to parishioners who were homebound, recovering from surgery or illness, and

also as graduation gifts to the parish’s high school and college graduates as a memento that the parish family cares for them. Pat is survived by two nephews, John (Pamela) Scabilloni, James (Diane) Scabilloni, three nieces, Mary Anna (Robert) Smith, Susan (John) Dillion and Lisa (James) Kovach, one sister in law, Eleanor (James) Scabilloni, and many friends. Patricia was preceded in death by her loving husband Stephen Morovich and brother, Michael. The funeral service was celebrated at St. Gregory Church on June 4, 2020. In blessed repose, grant

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Patricia Morovich

O Lord, eternal rest to your departed servant +Patricia and remember her forever! Eternal Memory! Vicnaja Pamjat! n


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thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras

the anaphora of st. basil: the glory of our lord The Anaphora of St. Basil is a complete proclamation of our faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. There are three components to this profession. The first is the mystery of the incarnation, that the Son and Word of God chose to take on the human nature for our salvation. The meaning of this mystery was expressed by quotations from Hebrews 1:3, the Letter to the Philippians 2:6 and the Old Testament prophecy of Baruch 3:38. Therefore, the Son of God becoming a human being was seen as an act of divine humility, for God became man, suffered as any mortal, to redeem us by his death on the Cross. This first component was then underlined by further quotations from Philippians 2:7 and 3:21; the Letter to the Romans 8:29 and 5:12; and the Letter to the Galatians 4:4. The Anaphora makes a beautiful case for how God loves us, weaving together passages from Scripture in a wondrous way. The second component was the proclamation of the meaning of the Gospel, of Jesus’ “good news,” how he taught us the will of God, and the truth of his being, in contrast to our human tendencies to idol worship. His message was “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). Knowing that we

could not keep this sublime law by our own human powers, he gave us the mysteries of Baptism and the Eucharist, “cleansing us with water and sanctifying us with the Holy Spirit,” and leaving “us the memorial of his saving passion, which we have prepared according to his command,” that is, the

There is no doubt we can be true followers of Christ only by imitating his way of salvation.

Eucharist that is now being celebrated. There is no doubt that we can be true followers of Christ only by imitating his way of salvation. “Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but also everyone for those of others. Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:3-5). The Letter to the Philippians, as we have seen, is an important source for the Anaphora of St. Basil. Again, the Gospels tell us, “whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all. 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 10:43-45). We might ask, then, is this what our faith brings us: humility and servitude? St. Paul meditates on this mystery and asks a very practical question: “If for this life only we have hoped but now Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:19-20). Just as the glory of Jesus was his death on the Cross, which was the way to his glorification, “because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, (Philippians 2:9-10) so we, too, share in his glory through our humility, “The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if only we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him” (Romans 8:16-17). This is the third component of the story of Christ in the Anaphora of St. Basil. Though the mystery of his love manifested for us, Christ entered into glory. As one without sin, he could not be held fast by corruption, but, instead, became the first-fruits of those who have fallen asleep, the first-born of the dead, so that in all things he might have pre-eminence over all,” quoting 1 Corinthians 15:20 and Colossians 1:8. Jesus died on the Cross, showing his infinite love, but “rose on the third day, preparing the way for the resurrection of all flesh from the dead.”The Anaphora, quoting Hebrews 1:3 and Romans 2:6, then proclaims the mystery of the Ascension, the glorification

of Jesus after his resurrection, “Ascending into heaven, he has taken his seat at the right hand of your majesty on high, and will come to reward everyone according to his works.” Truly, it is Christ alone that we glorify as our Lord and Savior, and we have the common greeting, arising out of the Scripture and our worship, “Glory to Jesus Christ.” As we celebrate the Divine Liturgy and hear these words of the Anaphora of St. Basil, we might yet ask the question: “What does this truly mean for us?” Do we not yet have to suffer and die in this world? Where is this glory? Note carefully what the Anaphora teaches, “corruption could not keep the Author of Life in its clutches” (Cf. Acts 3:15). Because The Son and Word of God was without sins, he could not remain in the corruption of death, but we, still struggling against the power of sin in our lives through the virtues of faith and hope and love, possible only by the grace of God, must still die like Christ, and await the resurrection only in the fullness of time. The Anaphora observes this subtly, “descending by the cross into Hades to fulfill all things in himself, he freed us from Death’s despair.” Therefore, we no longer live in despair, but in hope, and profess in our Creed, “I expect the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.” Truly, therefore, the Anaphora is a proclamation not of death, but of hope and life and glory. It is the proclamation of God’s infinite love for us, and a pledge of our love for him with our whole heart and mind and soul. 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. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa. www.facebook.com/stgregoryusc St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio www.facebook.com/st.michaelsbyz.campbell

St. Elias, Munhall, Pa. www.facebook.com/StEliasByzantineCatholicChurch/ St. Michael, Hermitage, Pa. https://www.facebook.com/stmichaelbyz.hermitage St. Stephen, North Huntingdon, Pa. www.facebook.com/ststephenbyzantinecatholicchurch

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sisters of st. basil the great in uniontown, pa.

Basilian Sisters Community Gathering Press release

Twice a year the Sisters of St. Basil the Great gather for community meetings at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. The theme for the July 20 to 23 meetings was “Rejoicing in a Century of Ministry.” The days were filled with a variety of events: blessing of vehicles on the feast of Elijah the Great Prophet, celebrating the Jubilee of three Sisters, taping hymns for our virtual Pilgrimage, celebrating our 100th anniversary of ministry, preparing for our upcoming Provincial Chapter and reflecting on reports from our Provincial and Treasurer. One afternoon, the Sisters spent time sharing their memories of Mother Macrina Melynchuk, the foundress of our Province. The Sisters also shared memories of inspiring and humorous incidents of their years in community. On the final meeting day,

Father John G. Petro was invited to speak to the community and to concelebrate the Divine Liturgy. His theme was "My Joy: Christ Is Risen!" He explained how the joy of the Resurrection is to be the overriding theme of our life, and how our Church reminds us of this in the prayers of each Sunday when we celebrate a “little Easter.” The annual Missioning Service concluded the program. Each Sister offered a written outline of her years in ministry which were held aloft before the altar in thanksgiving to God for his gifts. The Sisters received copies of their personal vocation memories in the form of letters they wrote to the officials of the community when advancing through the stages of their formation. A celebration in the dining room completed the days. n

Sister Melita (left) and Sister Dolores Ann (right) listen whle Sisten Euphemia shares her memories of Mother Macrina.

Sister Barbara tells of her experiences with Mother Macrina

Sister Ruth gives updates during the community meetings.

Catholic News Service Newswire After lockdown, Italy’s bishops to seek new ways to engage parishioners “the question is, what contribution can we make to the nation? how to approach men, women who are more afraid” by Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — Italy's bishops will need to help their communities participate more in parish life and return to taking part in the sacraments in ways that continue to respect evolving measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus, according to their conference leadership. After summer vacations end and autumn begins, the bishops are invited to "work together in order to create the conditions for being open to new forms of the church's presence," said a letter sent to the nation's bishops. The letter was drafted by the leadership committee of the Italian bishops' conference, and excerpts were published on its website July 23. When Masses were once again open to the public starting May 18, there was a noted lack of attendance by families with young children, teenagers and older parishioners, the letter said.

Parishes will need to "listen" in order to understand what has contributed to their absence, it said. With difficulties caused by the pandemic, there are also new opportunities, it added, praising all the priests and catechists who worked hard to maintain contact with parishioners and young people, particularly online. But now it is urgent they start planning new ways that respect precautions to bring people back onto a journey toward renewed community and parish life, particularly Sunday Mass, it said. There is still a sense of people feeling a great deal of uncertainty and apprehension connected with a fear of an economic collapse later in the year and with the stress or "fatigue of active participation." "The question is, what contribution can we make to the nation? How to approach women and men who are more afraid, poorer and alone?" Starting up parish activities

in the fall after the summer break "will necessarily have to be gradual and still limited by measures to protect the public's health," it said. A number of those measures will be determined by the country's regions, not the national government, such as the possibility of allowing more than 200 people inside large churches and cathedrals if they can guarantee the required social distancing, it said. The conference leadership, which has been working with the country's national technical-scientific committee that evaluates restrictions and their changes, said it will be possible to celebrate first Communion and confirmation Masses, but baptisms will be considered on a "case by case basis" to ensure limited numbers of participants. In Italy, these sacramental rites are typically attended by very large numbers of family members and acquaintances, resulting in packed churches. It will be best, the letter said, to make sure these celebrations

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A book and hand sanitizer are seen at the entry way of the San Polo church in Brescia, Italy, in this July 9, 2020, photo. Italian bishops are being asked to consider ways to reach parishioners for fall programs during phase three of pandemic reopening. Catholic News Service photo/Marco Mori, Reuters.

are always held as a community, even if that means with limited groups of people. Chrism oils, it added, can be administered with a piece of cotton or cloth. Restrictions had already been lifted at the end of June allowing priests to no longer wear gloves when distributing Communion. Communion can still only be given in the hand, but the priest must disinfect his hands thoroughly beforehand. No decision has yet been made, it said, about the return of choirs and singing. n


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AUGUST 2020

around the archeparchy FLEA MARKET — 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7 to Saturday, Aug. 8. St. John the Baptist Cathedral, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, Pa. Rain or shine inside the Cathedral Center. This function will be conducted following all CDC as well as all Pennsylvania State guidelines for safety during this COVID-19 situation. Also, all functions are tentative according to any mandates that may be in place at the time. Please check parish website at http://www. stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com/ for updates. BASKET RAFFLE — 1 p.m. Sept. 27, Holy Spirit Church, 4815 Fifth Ave., Oakland (Pittsburgh), Pa. Prizes for the whole family! Tickets are on sale now following all 9 a.m. Sunday Divine Liturgies and at the Flea Market, to be held 9 a.m.-noon Aug. 22 and 29. Masks and social distancing are required. Other restrictions may be in place at the time, depending on current regulations. Photos are on their Facebook page: Holy Spirit Byzantine Catholic Church.

This year’s Byzantine Catholic Family Day at Kennywood Park in West Mifflin, Pa. has been canceled. Discounted tickets for use this summer will be available from the Greek Catholic Union. Check the GCU Home Page at https://gcuusa.com/ for a link.

BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY

GCU Byzantine Catholic Family Day wll return in 2021.

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

dates to remember AUGUST 6 Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord AUG. 15 Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos SEPT. 13 Celebration of Marriage (tentative) St. Elias, Munhall, Pa.

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: SEPTEMBER 2020

submissions DEADLINE: AUGUST 21

See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org

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