W
RLD
THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHEPARCHY OF PITTSBURGH
Inside
columbarium at mount st. macrina
saluting our veterans
124 Niche Romanesque style Columbarium installed near Resurrection Garden Page 4
Parishes of the Archeparchy celebrate Veterans Day Page 7
VOL. 65 NO. 12
Up on the roof
DECEMBER 2020
year in review A look back at 2020 in photos Pages 12 to 13
eternal memory
Most Rev. Gerald Nicholas Dino jan. 11, 1940 ‑ nov. 14, 2020
Parishioner Dave Kormanik arranged for the roofing contractor to take Father Ivan Rusyn up in a crane –—127 feet high — Nov. 10 to bless the domes, crosses, and roof of St. Mary in Windber, Pa. For a story and more photos, see page 3.
A Vatican Christmas details of stamps, nativity scene, tree released
By Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY — Although the Vatican knows Christmas may be very different this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it already has chosen its stamps and the Nativity scene and tree that will stand in St. Peter’s Square. The larger-than-life-sized ceramic figures in the Nativity scene will come from a high school in Castelli, a town in the ceramic-producing region of Teramo, northeast of Rome, the Vatican announced Oct. 30. The F.A. Grue Institute, a high school focused on art, will send only a handful of the 54 sculptures that students and teachers crafted for the scene between 1965 and 1975, the Vatican said. In addition
to the Holy Family, an angel and the three kings, there will be a bagpipe player, a panpipe player, a shepherdess and a little girl carrying a doll. The scene will be displayed next to a towering spruce tree from Slovenia. The tree, which is almost 92 feet tall, will come from an area outside the town of Kocevje, the Vatican said. “This year, more than ever, the staging of the traditional space dedicated to Christmas in St. Peter’s Square is meant to be a sign of hope and trust for the whole world,” the Vatican statement said. “It expresses the certainty that Jesus comes among his people to save and console them.”
The Nativity scene will be unveiled, and the tree will be lighted Dec. 11, the Vatican said. The Vatican also revealed the design for its 2020 Christmas stamps, which celebrate the birth of Jesus as a light of peace for the world. The 1.15-euro stamp features the Baby Jesus with the Church of the Christ Child in Steyr, Austria, in the background and a 1.10euro stamp shows Pope Francis holding a lantern with St. Peter’s Basilica in the background. As a joint issue with Austria, a single sheet with the two stamps pays tribute to an Austrian initiative called “Peace Light of Bethlehem.” Story continued on page 2
Most Rev. Gerald Nicholas Dino, D.D., O.E.S.L., fell asleep in the Lord on Nov. 14, the feast of St. Philip, the Apostle on the Byzantine Catholic Calendar, after suffering a series of strokes. He is survived by family, friends, and the Faithful of the Eparchy of Phoenix. Born in Binghamton, N.Y., in 1940, he attended Woodrow Wilson Elementary School and then Binghamton Central High School, from which he graduated with Honors in 1958. He continued his education at Duquesne University, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1961. He then entered SS. Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Seminary in Pittsburgh Pa., where he completed theological studies for priesthood in 1965, after which he was ordained a priest for the Eparchy of Passaic. In 1970, following three parish assignments, he was then sent to Rome to earn, in 1972, his licentiate in Oriental Ecclesiastical Sciences (O.E.S.L.). In 1973, following another year in a parish assignment, he was appointed Academic Dean and Professor of Dogma and Patrology at SS. Story continued on page 3
Bishop Gerald Nicholas Dino
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DECEMBER 2020
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Schedule of Services - Christmas 2020
UPS 081500 ISSN 07442289
Very Reverend Andrew Deskevich, Rector
Official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh Serving parish communities in central and western Pennsylvania, Louisiana, eastern Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and West Virginia 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 Sister Elaine Kisinko, OSBM Copy Editor David Mayernik Jr. Editor
Thursday, Dec. 24 — Vigil, Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord Christmas Eve
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A Vatican Christmas
continued from page 1
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 times; and to celebrate community among Byzantine Catholics in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, throughout the Metropolitan Church in America, and around the world.
In early December each year, an Austrian scout is chosen to go to Bethlehem and light a lantern from the oil lamp hanging over the 14-point star that marks the spot where Jesus is believed to have been born. The lantern is brought back to Austria where the flame is used to light other lamps and candles that families and parishes place next to their Nativity scenes. It also is shared with officials at the European Union offices in Belgium and, from there, taken throughout Europe. The initiative, begun in 1986
Vatican Christmas stamps for 2020 show the baby Jesus and Pope Francis holding a lantern. The theme of this year's Christmas stamps is "the light of the peace of Bethlehem." This page was jointly issued with Austria. Catholic News Service photo/Vatican stamp and coin office.
by the Austrian broadcasting company, ORF, also raises money
for children with disabilities or other special needs. n
Radio Ministry reaches out to shut-ins The Byzantine Divine Liturgy is broadcast live every Sunday from Holy Ghost Church in McKees Rocks, Pa., 9 to 10 a.m. on WEDO Radio 810 AM. Contributions to help sustain this important ministry are most welcome and needed year-round. Especially at this time of year, when the spirit of giving is all around us, it is hoped that the generous faithful of the Archeparchy will add the Radio Liturgy Ministry to their gift lists. Checks should be made payable to the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh and sent to: Chancery, 66 Riverview Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA., 15214, ATTN: Radio Liturgy Ministry. the byzantine catholic world
DECEMBER 2020
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Getting close to Heaven
father ivan rusyn blesses st. mary in windber, pa. By Mike Lashinsky St. Mary in Windber, Pa.
Parishioner Dave Kormanik arranged for the roofing contractor to take Father Ivan Rusyn up in a crane — 127 feet high — Nov. 10 to bless the domes, crosses, and roof of St. Mary in Windber, Pa. Dave made Father Ivan a hard hat with a Byzantine cross on it and ensured Father Ivan was safely in a harness for the event. The domes needed repairs because the original bells installed in 1903 were causing some vibrations and structural damage. The committee chose a green color for the domes because the original domes were copper and over time had oxidized to a green color. The bells are named St. Stephen (1,010 lbs.), St. Nicholas (600 lbs.) and St. Mary (800 lbs.) They are A flat, B flat, and C. Byzantine churches have round domes to signify that “God is with us.” He lives among us and not just in Heaven. Three domes represent the Trinity. The crosses were made by an 86year old blacksmith in Hollsopple,
Onlookers gather Nov. 10 to watch Father Ivan Rusyn bless the domes, crosses and roof of St. Mary in Windber, Pa. Father Ivan and the roofing contractor traveled 127 feet high in a crane.
Pa., in 1985. These three crosses are each different and are copies from churches in Europe where our forefathers came from. Different towns had different designs of crosses. Our priest in 1985 researched the parishioners’ origins and selected the ones most represented at St. Mary’s. The cross on the center dome is eight feet tall. n
Most Rev. Gerald Nicholas Dino continued from page 1
Cyril and Methodius Seminary. Over the following summers, he completed graduate studies in Religious Communications at Loyola University in New Orleans, La. In addition to his other duties, he was then also appointed Professor of Religious Communications at the Seminary. In 1979, then Father Dino was appointed pastor of Holy Ghost parish in Jessup Pa., where he would serve for the next 17 years. While there, he became one of the three Founding Pastors of LaSalle Academy, an interRitual academic consortium of three parishes which was soon to become the largest parochial school in Northeastern Pennsylvania. In October 1996, he was appointed pastor of St. George parish in Linden, N.J. and Protosyncellus for the Eparchy of Passaic. In 2008, Father Dino became
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Bishop Gerald upon his ordination to the episcopacy as Fourth Bishop of the Eparchy of Van Nuys, which was later, in February of 2010, renamed Holy Protection of Mary Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Phoenix by the Vatican. Bishop Gerald served the Eparchy of Phoenix until his retirement following the enthronement of Bishop John S. Pazak, C.Ss.R., as the Fifth Bishop of Holy Protection of Mary Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Phoenix. Upon Bishop John’s enthronement, Bishop Gerald was appointed Protosyncellus for the Eparchy of Phoenix, and remained in that office until his recent death on Nov. 14. Although we commend him in faith to our Loving God, with joy and gratitude in the Lord, Bishop Gerald will be deeply missed. Eternal Memory, Bishop Gerald – and Thank You! – Please pray for us all. n
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byzantine catholic seminary of ss. cyril and methodius
Seminary gains SARA acceptance
Press release by the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius
The Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius is pleased to announce its acceptance into the The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA). By granting this designation, SARA has acknowledged the Seminary has developed policies designed to result in high-quality distance education offerings available to students around the country. The Seminary is now approved to offer distance education/online programming in all 50 states, territories and districts of the United States. The mission of SARA is to provide broad access to postsecondary education opportunities to students across the country, to increase the quality and value of higher learning credentials earned via distance education, and to assure students are well served in a rapidly changing education landscape. Institutions are eligible to apply for participation in SARA if they: n Are a degree-granting Institution, authorized to award associate degrees or higher n Are institutionally accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education n As a non-public institution, meet the institutional financial responsibility requirements for SARA participation n
Special offer
Due to closure resulting from COVID-19 regulations, the Religious Gift Shop at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. experienced a loss of revenue impacting our ability to provide the items our customers have come to rely upon. In gratitude for a donation of $25 or more, we will send you this lovely Our Lady of Perpetual Help battery candle (7.5 inches tall). Checks can be made out to Religious Gift Shop or you may call 724439-6180 to make a credit card donation. Thank you in advance for your support! n
DECEMBER 2020
sisters of st. basil the great
124 Niche Romanesque-style Columbarium installed
This autumn, a 124 Niche Romanesque style Columbarium was installed next to the present Mausoleum in The Resurrection Garden on Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. Pricing: Single Niches range from $1,895 to $2,195 Double Niches range from $3,845 to $4,445 n Price includes a memorialized Bronze Scroll Plaque. n Contracts signed by March 28, 2021 merit a $350 price reduction n Four benches available at $1,800. Price includes two lines of memorialization up to 48 letters and spaces. n
A 124 Niche Romanesque style Columbarium arrived at Mount St. Macrina Cemetery Nov. 13 and is being installed next to the present Mausoleum in The Resurrection Garden.
If you are interested in purchasing a Single or Double Niche in the new Columbarium, send your name, address, phone number and email address to: Mount St. Macrina Cemetery Office, 500 W. Main St., Uniontown, PA. 15401.
Bulletin Board Mount St. Macrina House of Prayer announces online programs
Mount Saint Macrina House of Prayer, 510 W. Main St., Uniontown Pa. has announced upcoming virtual online programs on Zoom. For more information or to register, call 724-438-7149 or email hpmsm@verizon.net. Provide your email address to receive a link, as programs will be conducted through Zoom. n 1:30-2:30 p.m. Dec. 13, Sunday Christmas Preparation Afternoon of Reflection: Conference, Q & A Session, Reflection. Presented by Deacon Stephen Russo Offering: $10. Register by Dec. 6. n 6:30-8 p.m. Feb. 18, 25; March 4, 11, 2021, Tuesday Evening Reading Series.
“Crossing the Desert: Learning to Let Go, See Clearly, and Live Simply” with Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick, OSBM. Offering: $5 per session or $15 for all four sessions. Register by Feb. 11. n 9:30-11:30 a.m. Feb. 25, March 4, 11, 18, 25, 2021, Lenten Bible Study Thursdays with Sister Melita Marie, OSBM. Offering: $5 per session or $20 for all five sessions Register by Feb. 18. n
Religious Gift Shop Open House Mount St. Macrina Due to uncertainty regarding COVID-19, the Christmas Open House at the Religious Gift at Mount St. Macrina will tentatively extend through the week of Dec. 5 to 12. Shoppers will be offered a 10 percent discount, refreshments, and chances to win prizes. If possible, the Sisters are asking shoppers to come on a weekday to limit the number of visitors at one time. Masks are required. December hours as well as hours for the Christmas Open House at Religious Gift Shop are 11 a..m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday,. The Religious Gift Shop is located at 530 W. Main Street,
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Mount St. Macrina, Uniontown, Pa. 15401. n
Looking ahead to Pilgrimage 2021 Hilton Garden Inn Uniontown will again provide a special rate package for those attending the 2021 annual Pilgrimage in Honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. The special group rate is available from Sept. 2 to 6, 2021. The special rate is $129 per night (before taxes) for all rooms except the King Suite, which is $159 per night before taxes. To make your reservations, use the Hilton Garden Inn Uniontown web site: http:// hiltongardeninn3.hilton. com/en/hotels/pennsylvania/ hilton-garden-inn-uniontownMGWUNGI/index.html. When booking, please select the option to “Add Special Rate Codes” and enter Group Code ANN21. Contact the hotel at 724-4347200 to make reservations. Tell them that you want the 2021 Annual Pilgrimage Group Rate (Group Code ANN21). A limited number of rooms are available. n
DECEMBER 2020
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reflection from mount st. macrina
TEXT MESSAGES
The power of being called a child of God
A thankful heart by David Mayernik Jr. Editor
Perhaps there is no better-known character in prose fiction than Ebenezer S c r o o g e of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” Since the novella was first published in 1843, calling someone a “Scrooge” — meaning a miserly curmudgeon who is only interested in themselves and the bottom line — has worked its way into our everyday lexicon. In Dickens’ novel, set in Victorian London, Scrooge is visited by three spirits — the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come — on Christmas Eve. Scrooge re-lives his life to rediscover what the world would be like if he was never born as the Ghosts endeavor to help him change his misguided ways. I don’t regularly have a Scroogelike personality but I’m sure we all have felt like him — at least for a moment — during this decidedly stressful year of 2020. At times, I’ve even felt like one of the spirits who visit him during the night; watching life happen from a distance and not getting too close to people. “Bah humbug!” indeed. In the end, Scrooge emerges as a new man, full of generosity and goodwill to humanity. He even gives Tiny Tim a shilling to buy the “prize Turkey” in the Poulterer’s storefront. Dickens’ novella was published on Dec. 19, 1843 and its 6,000 copies sold out by Christmas Eve. The story of “A Christmas Carol” has been told and retold in various forms for decades. I think I first became aware of Ebenezer Scrooge through Alastair Sim’s 1951 version of “A Christmas Carol” which aired on television. Then there was animated special “Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol” in 1962, regarded as the first Christmas television special, all the way to Bill Murray’s comedic version titled “Scrooged.” The story of re-living one’s life is also a major part of 1946’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” starring Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey. Another one of my favorites is “A Muppet Christmas Carol” starring Jim Henson’s Muppets and Michael Caine as Scrooge. Kermit the Frog plays the role of Bob Cratchit as he implores Scrooge for Christmas Day off from working in his depressing office so he can spend the day
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 Dec. 25, 2019 reflection.
Kermit the Frog (as Bob Cratchit) and Michael Caine (as Ebenezer Scrroge) in “A Muppet Christmas Carol”
with his family, which includes Tiny Tim (played by Kermit’s Muppet nephew, Robin). When Scrooge completes his emotional makeover in the movie, he sings “Thankful Heart”: “With an open heart that is wide awake I do make this promise: Every breath I take Will be used now to sing your praise And to beg you to share my days With a loving guarantee that even if we part I will hold you close in a thankful heart”
Christ is born Glorify Him! Merry Christmas! I want to begin with a memory I have from my teenage years. Our family had a little ice cream store in the front part of our house and one day, a teenage boy and myself, — both around 15 or 16 years old — were in the store. My little sister, who was a toddler, came walking in. Well, this guy sat and stared at her and then he said to me, “Imagine owning something like that! How awesome!” And I thought, “Wow, what an insight!” That memory has come back to
me a number of times. At Christmastime, we can think of it as the beauty of what the shepherds experienced and the Magi as well.They saw something awesome — they were given the revelation of something awesome — and when they arrived they found the infant child. Such glory in such simplicity! Often, paradox is at the heart of the ways we perceive our faith; the truth of Scripture, the truths of the faith. Believing requires “eyes of faith” to understand what is truly going on here. The Scripture says: “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God.” And all who accepted Him, received the power to become the Children of God. Indeed, my friends, that is who we are and how blessed we are! I pray that during this Christmas season, you will take the time to sit with the Infant King and to know the power of being called a Child of God. The Savior of the World, is for us, comes for me. It’s personal and real. Enjoy the intimacy of time with the Christ Child and know your awesome place in God’s kingdom. God bless you in this Holy Season. n
Hopefully, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ this year offers the opportunity to meditate on the importance of a thankful heart. “God bless us, every one!” said Tiny Tim. I’ll end 2020 in this space the same way I have since 2016, with the final lines of my favorite Christmas poem, “E.B. White’s Christmas.” It was published in The New Yorker on Dec. 20, 1952 and is written by the author of beloved children’s books “Stuart Little” and “Charlotte’s Web.” Once again, it’s worth a Google search to read the entire poem. n
And last, we greet all skaters on small natural ponds at the edge of woods toward the end of afternoon. Merry Christmas, skaters! Ring, steel! Grow red, sky! Die down, wind! Merry Christmas to all and to all a good morrow! Have a blessed Christmas and a healthy 2021! n
The Archeparchy of Pittsburgh Chancery will be closed
Thursday, December 24
through Friday, December 25 The Chancery will resume regular hours on Monday, December 28 - 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
66 Riverview Avenue | Pittsburgh, PA 15214 | 412-231-4000
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parish news DECEMBER 2020
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st. john the baptist cathedral in munhall, pa.
Dinner is served St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. hosted a two-day take-out Stuffed Cabbage dinner Nov. 14 to 15. The dinner and associated bake sale provided many Slovak tastes and aromas we all knew so
well in our youthful years! Again, the event was well supported by our community and the Christian faithful for the benefit of St. John Cathedral and its dedicated hardworking parishoners. n
Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.
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DECEMBER 2020
parish news
continued
PAGE 7
Saluting our veterans
st. john the baptist cathedral in munhall, pa.
St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. honored thosed all those who served our nation during the Nov. 8 Divine Liturgy. n
st. michael in campbell, ohio
by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio
Our St. Michael Parish honored our Veterans today (Nov.8). Those in attendance received a special blessing and a homemade
card by our parish children with their own words of gratitude. Happy Veterans Day to our St. Michael Parish Veterans! n
Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.
st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa. by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
Even though the weather this year did not cooperate, residents of Upper St. Clair, Pa. still gathered for this year’s Veterans Day observance. This solemn event took place
at the Veterans Memorial near the Upper St. Clair municipal building. This year, the event was also streamed live online due to the ongoing pandemic. The opening and closing prayers were offered by Father Valerian Michlik. n
st. elias in munhall, pa. by Father Vitalii Stashkevych St. Elias, Munhall, Pa.
Boy Scout Troops 4 and 15, Cub Scout Packs 4 and 15, and the local Girl Scouts removed all the American flags from St.Elias, St. John, St. Mary, St. Michael,
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Ann Ashley, and Homestead Cemeteries Nov. 14. The 1800 flags were then retired at a respectful ceremony at St. Elias Cemetery in West Mifflin. Thank you, Scouts, for a job well done! n
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parish news
st. elias in munhall, pa.
Busy bakers
continued
DECEMBER 2020
st. john the baptist in scottdale, pa.
The great cooks were busy at St. Elias in Munhall, Pa.! A Fish Fry, pirohi sale, nut roll, cheregi, and kolache baking were all held in November. More tasty treats will come in the spring! Father Vitallii Stashkevych is pastor. n
Pirohi primer
Father Oleh Seremchuk and parishioners prepared pirohi last month at St. John the Baptist in Scottdale, Pa.. n
Father Oleh Seremchuk prepares to run dough through the sheeter
Mary Beth Weaver and Dolly Litman roll the potato balls
Mark Seremchuk (in high chair) watches Maryna Seremchuk, Pat Marshal and Barb Zaksek prepare pirohi
Taking a well-deserved break are Floyd Marshal and John Onusko
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DECEMBER 2020
parish news
continued
PAGE 9
st. mary of the dormition in windber, pa.
assumption of the mother of god in weirton, w. va.
“America Needs Fatima�
The dough must go on
by William Koshute St. Mary of the Dormition, Windber, Pa.
Byzantine Rite and Latin Rite Catholics of Windber, Pa. gathered together Oct. 10 on the lawn of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish for an outdoor reciting of the rosary.
"America Needs Fatima" was organized by Patricia McCullough of St. Mary of the Dormition in Windber with Rev. Ivan Ruysn of St. Mary and Rev. Larry Lacovic of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. n
by Father Vasyl Symyon Assumption of the Mother of God, Weirton, W. Va.
Thank you to all who came to help prepare dough, and make and bake delicious nut and
poppyseed rolls. May God bless you for donating your time and talents to our church! n
st. michael in campbell, ohio
Dress-up days
by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio
Our ECF students wore their Halloween costumes Oct. 27 at class and also went Trick-
or-Treating to the different classrooms. The children had lots of fun and a Fab-BOO-lous time! n
ss. peter and paul in warren, ohio
National Byzantine Convention by Sister Barbara Pavlik, OSB SS. Peter and Paul, Warren, Ohio
Kudos to Archbishop William Skurla and to the members of the committee who arranged and organized the virtual National Byzantine Catholic Convention. Thanks also to the speakers, whose presentations were diverse and very informative.
The second grade ECF class at St. Michael in Campbell, Ohio learned about St. Michael in preparation for his Nov. 8 Feast Day. Jesse and Noah display swords and shields they made with Father Kevin Marks.
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The parishioners of SS. Peter and Paul in Warren, Ohio had the opportunity to view the presentations and the panel discussions projected on to the large screen in our social hall. Masks were worn and social distancing was observed, and of course, refreshments were available also. n
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parish news
continued
DECEMBER 2020
st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa.
Harvest Fest by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
Sunday, Nov. 8 was special at St. Gregory as we honored St. Michael the Archangel and All the Angels and offered prayerful supplications for all our living and departed veterans. Blessed with beautiful weather we gathered afterwards for our outdoors Harvest Fest. As part of this event our children enjoyed decorating cookies and cupcakes. We also found out who was the winner of our “Beer for a Year” raffle. Thanks to all who organized and participated in this parish event and congratulations to the winner of the raffle, our parishioner David. n
Trick or treat by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
Following the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, Oct. 25, St. Gregory’s “Trunk or Treat” took place in the church parking lot.
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Things were different this year, but we still had a good time being together. Sincere thanks to all who participated in this fun event! n
DECEMBER 2020
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eternal memory
father julian m. gnall, captain usn retired Father Julian Michael Gnall, priest of the Eparchy of Phoenix and retired chaplain of the United States Navy, fell asleep in the Lord on Nov. 7 in San Diego, Calif. He was born in Mahanoy City, Pa. on March 3, 1929, the eighth of 10 children of Joseph and Mary Stelmack Gnall. His early education was in the public schools of Mahanoy City and after graduation from high school in 1946, he entered St. Procopius College in Lisle Illinois as a divinity student. In 1948, Father Julian along with his fellow Ruthenian classmates founded the Benedictine Holy Trinity Monastery in Wilkinsburg, Pa. His studies were completed at SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pa. and on May 29, 1955, he was ordained to the priesthood by then Bishop Nicholas T. Elko in St. John Chrysostom Church in Pittsburgh. For the first five years of his priesthood, Father Julian helped in 45 different churches throughout what was then the Eparchy of Pittsburgh. Afterward he served as chaplain to the Sisters of St. Basil in Uniontown, instructor at their Mt. Macrina Academy, and administrator of St. Mary Church, Morgantown, W. Va. In 1969 he was commissioned a lieutenant as a chaplain in the United States Navy. He served with the United States Marines in combat in Vietnam, receiving the bronze
Photos of Father Julian M. Gnall courtesy of Luella Bantley
Father Julian M. Gnall
star for performance with honor, courage and distinction. Further duty took him to naval stations in Norfolk, Va.; Keflavik, Iceland; San Diego, Calif. and the Philippines. Father Julian attained the rank of Commander and then Captain. After retirement as naval chaplain, Father Julian attended the University of San Francisco where he earned a Masters degree in Theology. He then worked as a chaplain at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego for the next 15 years. His funeral was celebrated by Father Michael Murphy at Sacred Heart Church in Coranado, Ca. on Nov. 14. Because of Covid-19 restrictions, interment was private at Mount St. Macrina cemetery in Uniontown, Pa. In blessed repose, grant O Lord eternal rest to your departed servant the priest Julian and remember him forever! n
remembrance The following was written by Luella Bantly, who attended Mount St. Macrina Academy when Father Julian was chaplain: Luella is a parishioner of St. Mary in Johnstown, Pa. She attended Mt. St. Macrina Academy from 1962 to 1966. Father Julian was Chaplain at Mount St. Macrina Academy for eight years, 1960 to 1968. At our 50th (1966) class reunion, a call was placed to him in San Diego, Calif. The classmates who were in the room, during the call, reintroduced themselves and talked to him. He sounded surprised to hear from us. During his conversations, he mentioned, many times, how being at the academy was the happiest time in his life. After all the conversations, Gerry O’ Connor suggested singing "God Grant you many years " in English and Slovak. The trac-phone was held up, so he could hear us singing. Three of the academy graduates Betsy Moricz, Bridget Bowman and Gerry O’Connor visited Father Julian in San Diego, one year ago, during the month of November. They shared lunch, had a tour of part of the San Diego area and took many pictures. They also visited an academy classmate, Sister Michaela Gresko, Prioress of the Discalced Carmelite Order at the Carmelite Monastery in San Diego. For all of us, this was the first picture of Sister Michaela that we had seen, since our graduation in 1966. This became a special happening! Betsy also shared the pictures taken of the Monastery and grounds, with some of her former classmates. News of Father Julian planning to attend our all-class academy reunion in 2005 was welcomed by all. It was a considerable effort for him to travel from San Diego to Pittsburgh and then to Uniontown. Everyone was happy to see him. He celebrated the Divine Liturgy, had lunch, and shared memories in his warm-hearted style. A lot of pictures were taken that day. It is notable that whenever we telephoned Father, he would always, at the end of the conversation, say a prayer asking God's grace and protection on us. One memory shared by Bridget Bowman mentioned
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that Father would often start the religion class with the question, "What is reason?" He would answer "It is the power and ability of the soul to think and arrive at a conclusion." This memory would remain with her and has impacted her life. I remember, one time, that Father Julian mentioned to me, that he had been a student at the public schools in the area of his hometown. When he started at at St. Procopius, a Benedictine college/seminary, he needed to learn very quickly, religious terms, definitions, and customs that his classmates were already familiar with. Another memory of Father Julian was when prom time came, he was insistent that every girl attend the prom. He then arranged prom dates for some of the girls who boarded at the academy and who were distances away from family and friends. Family, friends and even seminarians were contacted by him and persuaded to be escorts. He also paid for the corsages, gasoline and the rented suits. Note: This generosity was unknown to many students including myself, at the time. Another point was made by Margie Popp, adding that since it was customary for the graduating class to decide to whom to dedicate their yearbook they decided to dedicate their yearbook to All The Servicemen in Vietnam. A significant connection was then made, years later, when Father Julian served in Vietnam as a lieutenant in the US Navy Chaplain corps. Father Julian was, and became, a singular influence on all of us while we were at the academy. This impact lasted throughout many, many years. Through our contacts by telephone and cards, we experienced his continuing interest in each of us, and his sense of humor. He always retained a vibrant spirit, despite losing his eyesight and experiencing declining health. Sister Michaela, a former classmate, has arranged a Memorial Mass for Father, at the Carmelite Monastery’s Chapel, for Saturday Dec. 3 at 7:30 am. PST., 10:30 EST. She has contacted her classmates, with this information. Now we all share a sense of loss. No longer will we hear him refer to us as “my dollies.” Rest In Peace, Father Julian. You are now, without pain. You can see Our Majestic Lord and be with Him. n
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2020 Year in Review April 12
Taking a look back... Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17 As the year draws to a close and the calendar prepares to turn to 2021, it’s important to take a look back to the previous 12 months. To say 2020 has been a challenging year in our homes and churches is quite the understatement.
But the faithful of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh did their best to persevere and will continue to do so into 2021. Let us pray next year we may soon be able to celebrate a Pilgrimage at Mount St. Macrina, re-ignite church activities and greet each other with open arms. The staff of The Byzantine Catholic World wishes you a Joyous Christmas and a Blessed New Year! n
The Radiant Resurrection
Parishes in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh found ways to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ despite the suspension of services due to the coronavirus pandemic. Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich blesses Easter baskets with Marty Bovee at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa.
Jan. 6
Feast of the Theophany
Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich celebrated the Feast of the Theophany Jan. 6 at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa.
Father Kevin Marks encouraged parishioners of St. Michael in Campbell, Ohio in his Palm Father Vitalii Stashkevych blesses pussy Sunday homily to make a "home willows and palms on April 5, Palm Sunday, at altar" or sacred space for prayer St Elias Church in Munhall, Pa. and reflection during Holy Week.
Jan. 18
Ordained a priest forever Deacon Thomas Wells was ordained a priest forever by Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla during the Divine Liturgy Jan. 18 at his home parish of St. John Chrysostom in Houston, Texas.
Father Vasyl Symyon of Deacon Luke Crawford and Father Vasyl Basnyk Assumption of the Mother of God of Holy Trinity in Sykesville, Pa. in Weirton, W.Va.
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May 30 to 31
July 12
Welcome home
Parishes of the Archeparchy welcomed back faithful starting the weekend of May 30 to 31, as restrictions due to the coronavirus were eased. Below, clockwise from left: St. Elias in Munhall, Pa.; Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich delivers homily at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa.; and masks, hand sanitizer and an electronic thermometer greet parishioners at St. Gregory in Upper St. Clair, Pa.
Seminarians ordained
Archbishop William Skurla (left) ordains seminarians Kyprian Wojiciechowski and Robert Jones to the Sub-diaconate at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Robert was also ordained to the Diaconate, At right is seminarian John Welch.
July 19
St. Gregory in Upper St. Clair, Pa. held its first outdoor Divine Liturgy July 26.
Celebrating 50 years
Priests from various parishes, parishioners, and guests gathered together with Archbishop William C. Skurla presiding to celebrate the golden anniversary of Infant Jesus of Prague in Boardman, Ohio. A 115-acre site was purchased on South Avenue and the church was built in 1970. Prior to that time, all the Greek Catholic people of Struthers were members of either St. Mary’s Greek Catholic Church, Steelton, or St. Nicholas Greek Catholic Church, Haselton, then suburbs of Youngstown, until their church was initially constructed in 1917.
Father Robert Pipta concelebrated the Divine Liturgy on the Feast of Pentecost with Father Vitalii Stashkevych at St. Elias in Munhall, Pa.
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.
Oct. 11
Back to school
On Oct. 11, Father Vasyl Symyon celebrated the Divine Liturgy at Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio for the faculty, staff, and students.
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thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras
the anaphora: the invocation (epiclesis) After the congregation sings the h y m n , ” We praise you, we bless you, we thank you, O Lord, and we pray to you, our God,” the priest begins to pray in the name of the community, "We implore, pray and entreat" the Father to send the Holy Spirit upon us and upon the gifts being offered. In Greek, this invocation is called the epiclesis, which means literally, a "calling upon." It is the climax of the anaphora, which follows the three-fold Jewish pattern of prayer used by our Lord. We address God; we commemorate his blessings; and we ask him to act in our behalf here and now. Because our faith comes through Jesus, almost every Christian Liturgy has an epiclesis in some form, and it is usually an invocation of the Father to send the Spirit. However, in some anaphoras, the epiclesis is more explicit than in others. The Byzantine Liturgy has very explicit invocations of the Holy Spirit. St. Basil the Great refers to an epiclesis in his writings on the Holy Spirit: "Have any saints left for us in writing the words to be used in the invocation over the Eucharistic bread and the cup of blessing? As everyone knows, we are not content in the Liturgy simply to recite the words recorded by St. Paul or the Gospels, but we add other words both before and after, words of great importance for this mystery." The idea that the Spirit comes
upon us and empowers us in our worship is very ancient and is still found in the Liturgy today. After the great entrance, the deacon and concelebrants say to the presiding priest the words of the angel to Mary, "The Holy Spirit shall come upon you, and the power of the Most High shall overshadow you" (Luke 1:35). The priest
The Church’s faith is that the bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ in the anaphora. responds: "May the Spirit himself join with us in our celebrations all the days of our lives." In the fourth century St. Cyril of Jerusalem spoke very clearly of the epiclesis: "We beseech the merciful God to send forth his Holy Spirit upon the gifts lying before him; that he may make the bread the body of Christ, and the wine the blood of Christ, for whatsoever the Holy Spirit has touched, is surely sanctified and changed." By the time of John of Damascus in the eighth century this was the Church's teaching: "For just as God made all that he made by the energy of the Holy Spirit, so also now the energy of the Spirit performs those things
that are above nature and which it is not possible to comprehend unless by faith alone. 'How shall this be,' said the holy Virgin, 'seeing I know not a man?' And the archangel Gabriel answered her, 'The Holy Spirit shall come upon you, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow you.' And now you ask, how have the bread become Christ's body and the wine and water Christ's blood? And I say to you, 'The Holy Spirit is present and does these things which surpass reason and thought. '" The Church's faith is that the bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ in the anaphora. The priest cannot transform the gifts by his own human power. It is done only in the power of God through the Holy Spirit. The priest is able to do nothing without the power of the Holy Spirit. The words of institution are the first sign of the power and gift and revelation of the love of Christ in giving us the Eucharist. The epiclesis is the sign that the priest acts through the gift of the Spirit given through the sacramental mystery of orders. St. John Chrysostom tells us clearly, "The priest does nothing, nor is the right accomplishment of the offered gifts due to human nature; but the grace of the Spirit being present, and coming down on all, makes complete that mystical sacrifice; for even though a man be present, it is God who works through him" (Homily 50 on Pentecost). This is awesome for us mortals. Though in the Divine Liturgy, we cannot see God's action with our physical eyes, we
can perceive what is happening in faith. St. John Chrysostom knew this, and so he described what is mystically happening here, "The priest stands, bringing down not fire, but the Holy Spirit; and he offers prayer at length, not that a fire may be kindled above and destroy the offering [cf 1 Kings 18:34], but that grace may fall on the sacrifice through that prayer, and kindle the souls of all" (On the Priesthood 6,4). This is why he asks that there be an attitude of reverence in the church when the Spirit is invoked, "What are you doing, O man? When the priest stands before the table, stretching forth his hands to heaven, calling on the Holy Spirit to be present, and to touch the oblations, there is a great stillness, a great silence. When the Spirit gives the grace, when he descends, and when he touches the oblations, when you see the Lamb slain and prepared, then do you bring in as well a noise, or disorder, or contentiousness, or railing?" (De coemet. appel. 3) Hearing the epiclesis aloud teaches us that, even though the priest is saying the words,the power and action of transformation is done by God through his Holy Spirit. The service that we offer to God, then, is really a "Divine" Liturgy, for while we perform the ritual, God the Creator, who has given us the natural ability to pray and implore, is present as our Sanctifier and makes our created offerings a share in his divine life. For this reason, we can never completely express the mystery of the Liturgy. 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 ww.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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News from the Vatican
Faith requires risks, helping others, pope says at Mass
“today in these times of uncertainty...let us not waste our lives thinking only of ourselves” by Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY — Being faithful to God means taking the risk of setting aside one’s own needs and plans in order to serve others, Pope Francis said, celebrating Mass for the World Day of the Poor. “Today, in these times of uncertainty, in these times of instability, let us not waste our lives thinking only of ourselves, indifferent to others or deluding ourselves into thinking, ‘peace and security!'” the pope said in his homily Nov. 15. Everyone is invited to “look reality in the face and to avoid the infection of indifference,” he said. The Mass was celebrated in St. Peter’s Basilica in the presence of about 100 people, who were representing those around the world who face poverty as well as volunteers and benefactors who assist them. Because of ongoing restrictions meant to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus, the Mass was not open to the public and was livestreamed on Vatican news channels. Instead of the large mobile health clinic, which is usually set up in St. Peter’s Square for the week, a smaller clinic under the colonnade surrounding the square was offering expanded services, including free COVID-19 swab tests for people who need them in order to stay at a homeless shelter or to return home abroad. In his homily, the pope reflected on Jesus’ parable of the talents,
which describes a rich man who entrusts his property to three of his servants. The first two doubled the amount entrusted to them while the third servant hides his sum in a hole to avoid any risks and keep it safe from thieves. However, it bears no fruit and his master rebukes him, calling him useless, “wicked and lazy,” and throws him out of the house. The pope said the parable describes how everyone has received from God a precious “patrimony,” present in one’s abilities, talents and gifts. Christians are called to use these gifts to do good and serve God by serving others, he said. The pope warned against forgetting or neglecting the talents one possesses, especially by constantly complaining about the things one lacks or needs. In the Gospel, good servants are those who take risks, he said. “They are not fearful and overcautious, they do not cling to what they possess, but put it to good use.” “There is no faithfulness without risk,” he said, because being faithful means putting one’s life in God’s hands and “letting our carefully laid plans be disrupted by our need to serve.” “Those who take care of themselves to avoid risk begin in their lives a process of mummification of their souls,” he said. Faith is not just about following rules, the pope said. The third servant did nothing wrong, “but he did nothing good either. He
Pope Francis and German Bishop Franz-Peter Tebartz-van-Elst, right, delegate for catechesis at the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization, celebrate the Eucharist during a Mass marking World Day of the Poor in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican Nov. 15. Catholic News Service photo/Paul Haring.
preferred to sin by omission rather than to risk making a mistake. He was not faithful to God, who spends freely, and he made his offence even worse by returning the gift he had received.” A life is empty when it is only focused on one’s own needs and is “blind to the needs of others,” the pope said. The poor “help us become rich in love,” he said. “For the worst kind of poverty needing to be combatted is our poverty of love.” With the season of Christmas approaching, Pope Francis urged people to reevaluate the way they live the holiday season. “How often do we hear people ask, ‘What can I buy? What more can I have? I must go shopping.’ Let us use different words, ‘What can I give to others?’ in order to be like Jesus, who gave of himself
and was born in the manger.” Later, before praying the Angelus with people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis said it is not hard to find people in need. “There is so much hunger even in the middle of our cities and so often we fall into that logic of indifference,” which thinks the poor are too far away to help. There are also Christians who wish their priests and bishops didn’t spend so much time talking about the poor, preferring they talk instead about eternal life, he said. But the poor are at the heart of the Gospel and Jesus came for the poor, so “do not be selfish, hold out your hand to the poor.” “You have received many things and you would let your brother, your sister starve to death?” he asked. n
World Day of Poor initiatives adapt to pandemic
pope francis celebrates mass in the presence of 100 people representing those who face poverty by Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY — Even during a global pandemic, the World Day of the Poor will be an important opportunity for parishes to highlight the importance of charity and spiritual comfort for those in need, said a Vatican official. Although restrictions meant to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus have meant some initiatives had to be canceled or modified, the Nov. 15 day remains an occasion for dioceses around the world to “keep alive a sense of attention and fraternity toward the most marginalized and disadvantaged,” said Archbishop Rino Fisichella, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting
New Evangelization, which coordinates the World Day of the Poor activities. At a Vatican news conference Nov. 12, the archbishop detailed what the Vatican and the Diocese of Rome had planned. Pope Francis was to celebrate Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica Nov. 15 in the presence of 100 people, who will represent those around the world who face poverty as well as volunteers and benefactors who assist them, he said. The Mass will be livestreamed at vaticannews.va. Instead of the mobile health clinic, which is usually set up in St. Peter’s Square for the week, and lunch for 1,500 people with the pope, he said the papal almoner’s office has been operating a smaller clinic under the colonnade in the
square offering free COVID-19 swab tests for people who need them in order to stay at a homeless shelter or to return home abroad. For the past two weeks, they have conducted about 50 tests a day, he said. Mobile units also will be parked in different locations on the outskirts of Rome offering free HIV and hepatitis-C tests, he added. Thanks to the generosity of donors, 2.5 tons of pasta will be given to local soup kitchens and charities, and 5,000 care packages will be distributed to families in need in Rome. Each box will contain quality brand-name staple foods, face masks and a prayer card from the pope. About 350,000 face masks will
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A health care worker, masked for protection from COVID-19, cares for a homeless man at the Pope Francis Center in Detroit in May 2020. The pope is scheduled to mark World Day of the Poor with a Mass and charitable efforts to feed the poor and look after their medical needs. Catholic News Service photo/Jim West.
be given to 15,000 students in the city to alleviate costs for families in need and to invite students “not to underestimate the risks Story continued on page 16
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DECEMBER 2020
around the archeparchy HOLIDAY BASKET EXTRAVAGANZA — Noon-? Dec. 6, St. John the Baptist Cathedral, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, Pa. Donation: $20. Take home dinner includes: wedding soup, salad, ravioli, dessert and beverage. Extra dinners may be purchased for $10 each. 20+ Basket Raffle, variety of vendors and 50/50 Drawing. St. John’s Baked Goods (kolache and more) and door prizes. Tickets must be purchased in advance. For tickets and information, call Diane at 412-303-6534. All CDC, state and local health department guidelines will be followed during the event. COOKS CATALOGS — St. Michael in Hermitage, Pa. is selling a reprint of Cooks Catalog 1, originally published in 1963, and Cooks Catalog 3, originally published in 1998. Each cook book contains nearly 800 recipes of traditional ethnic foods along with other soups, meats, vegetables, main dishes, desserts, and lots more. Each catalog is $13, which includes shipping/handling. If you would like Cooks Catalog 1 or Cooks Catalog 3, mail a request to: St. Michael Byzantine Catholic Church, ATTN: Teena Kovach, 2230 Highland Road, Hermitage, PA. 16148 with your payment, quantity, and which edition you want. It makes a great stocking stuffer! ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST PARISH FUNDRAISER —10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 12, St. John the Baptist, 1720 Jane St., Pittsburgh. Haluski, pirohi, and chicken noodle soup for sale. Take-out only. Stop by the parish house porch. Contact stjohnthebaptistbcc@gmail.com. For more information, go to stjohnthebaptistbcc.org.
World Day of Poor
continued from page 11
of the pandemic, especially with behaviors that could be harmful once they return from school to their families with the presence of elderly people,” the archbishop said. Priests and chaplains can download a pastoral guide in five languages from the council’s website, www.pcpne.va, to help make sure the day is not just dedicated to charitable activities, but is supported by prayer, eucharistic adoration and other spiritual endeavors “that can never
dates to remember DEC. 6 Feast of Our Holy Father Nicholas of Myra DEC. 8 Feast of the Maternity of Holy Anna DEC. 25 Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ Chancery closed Dec. 24 to 25 DEC. 26 Feast of the Synaxis of the Holy Theotokos DEC. 27 Feast of the Holy Protomartyr Stephen DEC. 31 Vigil of the Feast of the Circumcision of our Lord Vigil of the Feast of St. Basil the Great New Year’s Eve See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org the byzantine catholic world
be lacking in order for our witness to be complete and effective,” he said. The pope’s message for the day was made public in June and the day’s theme is “Stretch forth your hand to the poor.” Concrete signs and gestures are necessary every day, especially at a time when so many people find themselves in difficulty because of the pandemic, the archbishop said. “Now is a good time to recover the conviction that we need one another, that we have a shared responsibility for others and the world,” the pope said in his message. n
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