BCW VOL. 66 NO. 7 Jul 2021

W

RLD

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHEPARCHY OF PITTSBURGH

Inside

healing effect of the divine liturgy

A message from Archbishop William Skurla Page 3

VOL. 66

NO. 7

JULY 2021

catechist workshop

summer cruisin’

Office of Religious Education sponsors “Catechesis: The Plurality of Methods” Aug. 14 Page 4

St. John the Baptist Cathedral kicks off summer Car Cruise season Page 11

“Helping Hands Day”

volunteers return june 5 to beautify mount st. macrina in uniontown, pa.

Pilgrimage returns to Mount St. Macrina sisters of st. basil the great announce 87th pilgrimage sept. 5 Press release by the Sisters of St. Basil the Great, Mount St. Macrina, Uniontown, Pa.

Volunteers tend to gardening June 5 in front of the House of Prayer at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. during “Helping Hands Day.” The event, sponsored by the Greek Catholic Union, returned this year following a hiatus in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more photos, see page 6.

The Mystery of Marriage, according to God’s plan

pre cana program will resume in-person arrangement in 2022 Press release by the Office of Religious Education

In 1999 the Office of Religious Education created a Pre Cana program for couples who felt called to the Vocation of Marriage.

Over the years along with a dedicated team of wonderful organizers and presenters, hundreds of couples in the Archeparchy have benefited from this program.

The agenda is an opportunity for the couples to come together and learn about the Church teachings on love, responsible parenting and natural family planning.

The Pastors who promote this program believe “The Church is built on a foundation of

Brady Forshey and Ashlea Krupa of St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.

marriage and family life. The living out of marriage takes place within the whole Body of Christ, which it serves and in which it finds nourishment” (USCCB Marriage: Love and Life in the Divine Plan).

Due to the pandemic, the Pre Cana programs in 2020 and 2021

were offered Asynchronous Via Populi (bcs.edu.)

A total of 14 couples from the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, Eparchy of Passaic and the Eparchy of Parma took advantage of the opportunity, participated and completed the program in April.

The Office of Religious Education is thrilled to announce the 2022 Pre Cana program will resume in-person arrangement at SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary, Saturday, March 26 and April 2.

Deep gratitude is expressed to the presenters and a few of the couples who shared their photos.

For more photos, see page 4

The Sisters of St. Basil the Great are pleased to announce that on Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021, the 87th Annual Pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help will be held at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. With the theme, “Mother of Perpetual Help, Our Gentle Protectress,” the Pilgrimage will be an in-person event and will also be streamed live. Weather permitting, liturgical services will be broadcast at www.sistersofstbasil.org.

Out of an abundance of caution, and in consultation with local county CDC/health department officials, this year’s Pilgrimage will have the following guidelines and limitations: All liturgical services will take place at the Shrine Altar. Due to the inability to accommodate large numbers indoors, the potential for postponement or cancellation of a liturgical service exists with the presence of severe weather conditions.

Boxed lunches/snacks will be available for purchase during this year’s Pilgrimage. Pilgrims wishing to enjoy a warm meal are encouraged to support the local restaurants on Route 40 directly across from the Mount.

Please see the list of local motels and hotels on our web site if you wish overnight accommodations.

Story continued on page 2

Pilgrimage 2019

PAGE 2

JULY 2021

Seminary celebrates 2021 Spring graduates

Press release by the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius 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 Sister Elaine Kisinko, OSBM Copy Editor David Mayernik Jr. 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: 21st of the month prior to the month of publication.

The Byzantine Catholic World is a member of the Catholic Press Association.

MISSION The mission of The Byzantine

Catholic World is to spread

the Gospel message in the rich tradition of the Byzantine Catholic Church; to encourage faithful to reflect the image of Christ in everyday activities of life; to offer spiritual formation through changing times; and to celebrate community among Byzantine Catholics in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, throughout the Metropolitan Church in America, and around the world.

M. A. T. Graduates

James Harold C o r k e r n graduated magna cum laude with the degree of Master of Arts

A virtual commencement ceremony at the end of May 2021 honored the following five graduates from the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius: M. Div. Graduates

R e a d e r Christopher P. Davel, of the Eparchy of Newton, graduated cum laude with the degree of Master of Divinity. Upon receiving his diploma, he reflected about his time at B.C.S. "The experience of working, praying, and living with other presbyteral candidates, nine months a year for four years, fits in perfectly with our summer assignments and our parish lives before and after seminary. I look forward to serving our eparchy as a priest.”

Subdeacon K y p r i a n A n d r e w Wojciechowski of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh graduated magna cum laude with the degree of Master of Divinity.

As the student representative, he led the Seminary’s student forum and provided a balanced and truthful voice for the concerns of resident students during the global pandemic.

Bulletin Board Mount St. Macrina House of Prayer 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. Email address required to receive link. n Tuesday Evening Reflection for Men and Women: Introducing the Desert Fathers, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

July 13. Presented by Deacon John Evancho. Offering: $10.

Register by July 9. n Thursday Evening Reflection for Men and Women: Introducing the Desert Mothers, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

July 15. Presented by Helenanne Hochendoner, MAT. Offering: $10. Register by July 12. n

in Theology. He enrolled in 16 courses in the Seminary’s School of Theology and completed each of them 100 percent online with most notable grades.

Eric Alexander O r t i z graduated summa cum laude with the degree of Master of Arts

in Theology. He remarks about his experience studying in the Seminary’s School of Theology: “I have very much appreciated my time of academic formation at B.C.S. One of the highlights for me was getting to interact in an online, academic format with other Eastern Catholics from all over the United States and the World. I hope to use what I learned in this degree to serve the church.”

Peter Anthony Wingerter graduated magna cum laude with the degree of Master of Arts in Theology.

Our hope that

the Seminary be a place where the seed of the Word of God is planted in hearts and minds leading to a bountiful harvest for the Church is clearly tangible also in what Peter, as husband and father to a large family, shares: “Like most everyone else in today’s world, I am busy with work, family, life, etc., yet I also recognized a need to grow in my Eastern Christian faith. This led me to B.C.S. and their flexible program, which was just what I needed. B.C.S.’s ability to help me strike a balance between all of life's other commitments along with Master’s level classes was top notch. My hope is to take what I learned and put it at the service of God by helping lead people to Him in whatever way I can!”

Founded in 1950, the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius is a free-standing, English speaking theological seminary, welcoming all those seeking the knowledge possessed by the Eastern ecclesial traditions. We are authorized to grant graduate degrees by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools. We offer the following degree programs approved by the Commission on Accrediting: Master of Divinity; Master of Arts in Theology. We operate as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization incorporated in Pennsylvania and are governed by a Board of Directors under the leadership of the Metropolitan Archbishop of Pittsburgh. n

Pilgrimage returns to Mount St. Macrina continued from page 1

There will be no overnight accommodations on the grounds of Mount St. Macrina this year, which includes campers.

A limited number of self-contained RVs are permitted by appointment only (contact Sister Carol at 724438-7149).

Pilgrims will be asked to wear masks when entering indoor shrines, as well as buildings such as the Religious Gift Shop, House of Prayer, restroom facilities, etc.

Visitors to the Monastery (Motherhouse) will be limited this year to Sisters’ family. There will be no shuttle service on the property.

The Sisters are very happy to welcome our beloved Pilgrims back to the grounds of Mount St. Macrina this year. We encourage those with compromised health conditions, unvaccinated persons, or those who travel great distances, to pray with us virtually via the livestream: www.sistersofstbasil. org. n

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Schedule as of June 21, 2021 (Subject to change) Sunday, Sept. 5 9:30 a.m. Confessions 9:30 a.m. Matins (TBD) 11 a.m. Divine Liturgy for Vocations 1:30 p.m. Children’s Procession 2:30 p.m. Bereavement Session 4 p.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy 7 p.m. Parastas Monday September 6 9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy (TBD) Services to be Streamed Live The following services will take place Sunday, September 5 at the Shrine Altar, weather permitting, and live streamed on our website: www. sistersofstbasil.org.

11 a.m. Divine Liturgy for Vocations 1:30 p.m. Children’s Procession 4 p.m. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy 7 p.m. Parastas

JULY 2021

PAGE 3

from the office of the metropolitan

The Healing Effect of the Mass and the Divine Liturgy During the past year, the pandemic, social tension, and political polarization have combined to create illness, fear, social upheaval, despair, and death. Normally, the Roman Mass and Eastern Catholic Divine Liturgy have been places of refuge and healing during similar difficult times. The virus has prevented one of the most powerful sources of healing. Unlike, after 911 when the churches were filled, the stark images of celebrations of Easter within empty churches deepened the sense of hopelessness and fear. As with most good things we take for granted, we do not realize the healing effect of the Mass and Divine Liturgy until is taken away.

During the last year, we all have had time to reflect upon how we missed the in person celebration of the Eucharist. The healing effects of the common celebration of the Eucharist bring healing on at least three different levels. Healing comes through the individual experience of the celebration, the social level of prayer for others, and the mysterious connection to the Divine.

Individual Response to Prayer Every time an individual participates in a joyous Roman Mass or an Eastern Catholic Divine Liturgy, he or she feels better. No matter if we enter the smallest chapel or the largest cathedral, we enter the sacred space and see the religious art that tells us that we have entered a holy place. The most extreme example is to step from the noise of the traffic on New York City’s Fifth Avenue and to go into Saint Patrick Cathedral. Our ears enter the quiet before they are enveloped with the music and words which are different from those of our normal life.

The shift from the experience of our normal daily life to praying in a holy space gives us a healing by using a different part of mind which is engaged when we pray. The celebration of any Mass or Divine Liturgy, like quiet meditation, can bring about emotional and psychological healing for each person who attends. Weekly or daily prayer deepens the calm level, promotes healing, and extends one’s life.

The Prayer for the Needs of the Community The second way that the Mass heals is through the prayers and litanies with intercessions in which we offer prayers for peace, healing, and forgiveness. The Roman Mass presents one set of intentions following the Gospel. In the Eastern Christian Churches there are several litanies for every possible need including healing. In all Catholic liturgies, the prayers call us to move from the focus on ourselves to concern for others.

We pray for peace in the whole world and for national and local political governments. We hope that our prayers will transform our leaders and people with security and justice for all peoples and races. Peace can serve as the foundation for working together to build a better world. It is hard to care for others when you do not feel safe in your own neighborhood or home.

We directly pray for the improvement of our heath and the health of those who are ill. We hope that God will intervene, but we are reminded to participate in the healing process by visiting and assisting the aged and infirmed. Our verbal prayers transform our hearts to allow us to become agents of healing.

The prayers directly before approaching the altar to receive communion remind us of our need for forgiveness. In the Roman Church we request that the Lamb of God have mercy on us. In the Eastern Church we ask for mercy upon the sinner. This request for the Lord’s mercy is repeated during the Divine Liturgy and all services. We are all sinners and without the Lord’s mercy we are lost.

Mystical Healing of the Eucharistic The third healing that takes place through the reception of holy Eucharist goes way beyond personal and societal healing. When we receive the sacred body and blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we are sanctified and lifted beyond this world to the eternal. As with all sacramental mysteries, we make contact with the divine.

In the Roman Mass the priest says: “Behold the Lamb of God, behold him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb.” And the people answer: “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.”

Upon distribution in the Eastern Divine Liturgy, the celebrant says, to each recipient “The servant of God, (Name), partakes of the precious, most holy, and most pure body and blood of our Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ for the remission of (his-her) sins and for life everlasting. Amen” Both prayers remind us that we are changed by the reception of the Eucharist. The prayer of our Venerable Church Father John Damascene explains to us what happens when the faithful receive communion. The reception transforms the person.

“God, my God, all-consuming invisible fire, you make your angels flaming fire. In your inexpressible love, you have condescended to give me your divine flesh.

You have allowed me to partake of your divinity by possessing your most pure body and precious blood. May they penetrate my entire body and spirit and all my bones. May they burn away my sins, enlighten my soul, and brighten my understanding. May they sanctify me, making a dwelling-place in me so that I too may be in you forever, with your blessed Father, and Your All-Holy Spirit, through the prayers of your most pure Mother and of all your saints. Amen.”

For those who have been celebrating virtually or have been unable to receive, the actual reception of the body and blood of Christ can reawaken our first memories of our first communion. It can also make up for our lack of individual or societal peace. The reception gives us a taste of the eternal banquet to come when we join all the faithful who have gone before us. The quiet divine presence stays with us as we participate in bringing healing to the world.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend William C. Skurla, D.D. Metropolitan Archbishop of Pittsburgh the byzantine catholic world

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JULY 2021

“Catechesis: The Plurality of Methods”

archeparchy of pittsburgh’s office of religious education to host catechist workshop aug. 14 The Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh’s Office of Religious Education will sponsor a Catechist Workshop 9:15 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Aug. 14, 2021 at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius in Pittsburgh, Pa. The title of this year’s workshop is: “Catechesis: The Plurality of Methods.”

The Seminary is located at 3605 Perrysville Ave., Pittsburgh, Pa. 15214.

Presenters Marie Nester, M Ed. Marie revised the God With Us catechetical texts for grades 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8. She also contributed meditations for Journey Through the Great Fast and Christ is Born, published by the Office of Religious Education. Marie is Adjunct Instructor of English at Harrisburg Community College and adjunct instructor at SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary.

She and her husband Luke are members of St. Ann Byzantine Catholic Church in Harrisburg, Pa.

SCHEDULE

Although the Church upholds the primacy of grace, she has a sense of responsibility and sincere educational passion when it comes to catechetical processes and methods. Catechesis does not have a single method, but is open to evaluating different methods.

Since the Church does not have a method of her own for proclaiming the Gospel, an effort of discernment is needed so as to test everything and keep what is good.”

(Directory for Catechesis 2020)

9:15 a.m.

Registration/Coffee

12:15 p.m.

Lunch

10 a.m.

Opening Prayer/Introduction ECF Past/Present Experiences & Going Forward — Group Sharing

12:50 p.m.

Quiet Time - Chapel

11 a.m.

Break

2 p.m.

Considerations in Making Changes Sister Marion and Marie Nester

11:15 a.m.

Part I - Marie Nester “The Traditional Model/Adaptations”

1:10 p.m.

Part II - Marie Nester

2:45 p.m.

Evaluation

Noon Organizational Structure of ECED & God With Us Online Amanda Singel

3 p.m.

Departure

Amanda Singel Amanda received a BA in Studio Arts from the University of Pittsburgh. Currently, she is the Assistant to the Director of the Office of Religious Education and the Business Manager for the Eastern Catholic Eparchial Directors of Religious Education (ECED). Amanda, her husband and son are members of St. John Chrysostom in Pittsburgh, Pa. n

The Mystery of Marriage, according to God’s plan After Pre Cana sessions for couples called to the Vocation of Marriage were offered Asynchronous Via Populi (bcs.edu) in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic, the Office of Religious Education has announced the Pre Cana program will resume

in-person arrangement at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius on March 26 and April 2, 2022.

Pictured are couples who participared in the 2021 program.

For a full story, see page 1. n

Francine Schreffler, Ronald Korch (St. John the Baptist, Hazleton, Pa.)

Alan Harper, Kayla Henderson with Father Frank Firko (Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa.)

Michael Smith, Allison Murslack (St. Gregory, Sarah Decker, Zachary Davis Upper St. Clair, Pa.) (St. Mary, Bradenville, Pa.)

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Antonio Wolfe, Lauren Keffer (St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.)

Jenna Molczan, Scott Vincent Higby (St. Michael, Hermitage, Pa.)

JULY 2021

text messages

Christmas in July As Independence Day kicks off the month of July, I’m thinking it may be the first holiday we are able to celebrate fully — with all the proverbial bells and whistles — as the pandemic at least begins to recede in our collective rear-view mirror.

Unlike last year, there are sure to be large groups of people enjoying fireworks, cookouts and outdoor music.

Of course, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause suffering around the globe, but here in the United States, we see signs of the beginning of the end.

Just look through this issue of The Byzantine Catholic World.

Thanks to a loosening of restrictions by federal and local authorities, there are more mask less photos in this issue than there has been for more than a year.

It’s good to see so many smiling faces when I open up my email each day.

Activities at churches are also starting to multiply, including summer Car Cruises at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. (see page 11) and an Aug. 21 Night at the Races at St. John Chrysostom in Pittsburgh (see page 16 for details).

It’s almost enough to make me wish for a “Christmas in July.”

Where did that phrase even originate?

Apparently, it’s from “Werther,” an 1892 French opera.

In it, a group of children rehearse a Christmas song in July, to which a character responds: “When you sing Christmas in July, you rush the season.”

The phrase “Christmas in July” has since become co-opted by advertisers in the 20th century and used in a more ironic sense than as an actual holiday.

Maybe I’m rushing the season, also, but it’s never a bad time to listen to Perry Como and Bing Crosby.

And if you’re somehow missing the snow, ice and cold this month, turn on the Hallmark Channel, which is re-running its Christmas movies this month.

I'm fine with enjoying Christmas movies and music in July.

But hopefully, the cold weather and snowy roads will give us a break until after Dec. 25. n

PAGE 5

Clergy Day

priests gather in munhall, pa. for annual meeting The Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh held its annual Clergy Day May 22 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. The event was

canceled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event was moderated by Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich, pastor at the Cathedral. n

Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.

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reflection from mount st. macrina

“Blessed are the poor in spirit”

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

Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick posts videos of her reflections each week on the Facebook page of the Sisters of St. Basil the Great.

They may be viewed at: https://www.facebook.com/ sistersofstbasil.uniontown/.

This is a transcript of her July 10.

2020 reflection.

Glory to Jesus Christ!

Today we begin a long series on the Beatitudes that Jesus offered us in the Gospel of Matthew.

With this teaching, He begins the Sermon on the Mount, a whole long discourse about many aspects of life and God, and the Light of God, describing also what God is like.

The whole sermon is a lifetime’s challenge. But the Beatitudes is an encapsulation. It gives us “flashes of lightning” in looking at the life of Jesus Himself; life in the Kingdom of God. These “flashes” show us the “interior.” If Jesus could say, “This is what God is like on the inside. This is what Jesus is like in his depths.”

That’s what He is explaining to us in the Beatitudes. And still holding them out as something we should reach to live by His Grace!

The very first one is: “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” Here, He is talking about openness before God; He is talking about humility.

Here Jesus talks about a “spirit” which is not very much like the American spirit or the spirit of our times because in order to get ahead we’ve been taught how much we need to reach out and be in charge.

People who want to get ahead study leadership, buy those books and try to put those aspects into power in their lives.

But Jesus is saying “trust God.” Jesus is saying “come to Me, ask for what you need, trust that God is with you.” And that God doesn’t need to be managed by us, which is so often our tendency, isn’t it?

We would like God to see things our way, do things our way. But I think of Jesus at the Last Supper dialogue; I compare it to this. He’s about to leave His disciples with the huge challenge of taking His message to all the world. And He says, “Wait for the Holy Spirit.

Wait for the help that will be given you and place your trust in Me.” Today, we live in that Church, in that Kingdom, in that grace that has spread to all the world and has come to fill our lives with Him in ever-flowing love and grace.

May we be poor in spirit and place our trust in our Loving God. God bless you. n

PAGE 6

JULY 2021

Lending a helping hand volunteers return june 5 to beautify mount st. macrina in uniontown, pa.

Posted June 6 on the Sisters of St. Basil the Great’s Facebook page: A very special and heartfelt thanks to all of our wonderful volunteers yesterday! We truly appreciate the organization of this annual event by the Greek Catholic Union. We are blessed.

Mount St. Macrina is looking beautiful in its summer splendor. n

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parish news JULY 2021

PAGE 7

ss. peter and paul in duquesne, pa.

st. elias in munhall, pa.

Welcome, Father Will!

Saluting the fallen

by Judy Kacik SS. Peter and Paul, Duquesne, Pa.

On Sunday, June 20, the parishioners of SS. Peter and Paul in Duquesne, Pa. had a social welcoming their new administrator, Father Will Rupp.

We also honored graduate, Mackenzie Kearns and all the fathers in observance of Father’s Day. Father Will gave Mackenzie

a blessing and an icon from her parish family.

Father Will expressed his joy to be with us as we worship and grow together in our faith.

Robert Kacik, president of the Men's Club and Parish Club, presented Father Will with a replica of the Church and noted that no matter where Father Will may ever go, he will always take us with him. n

by Mary Caryl Planiczki St. Elias, Munhall, Pa.

Boy Scout Troop 15 and their leaders honored the deceased veterans buried in St. Elias Cemetery in West Mifflin, Pa. by

placing American flags on their graves. The flags will remain all summer.

We thank the Scouts for their hard work. And we thank all those veterans for their service to our country. Eternal Memory! n

c

Robert Kacik presenting a replica of SS. Peter and Paul church to Father Will Rupp.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Father Will Rupp is welcomed to SS. Peter and Paul in Duquesne, Pa.; Father Will, Mackenzie Kearns and and her mother, Stephanie Kearns; Mackenzie with her mother and grandparents, Rich and Shirley Miller.

Father Vitalii Stashkevych kneeling prayers and Gospel Reading for Feast of Pentecost.

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PAGE 8

parish news

ECF Catechists meeting

Following the June 6 Sunday Divine Liturgy, a meeting of our ECF catechists took place in the parish library.

JULY 2021

ss. peter and paul in portage, pa.

st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa.

by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.

continued

With the end of the school year we express our sincere thanks to all our ECF teachers for their dedication to this important ministry during this challenging year! n

Mystery of Repentance

by Father James Spontak SS. Peter and Paul, Portage, Pa.

During the Eastern Christian Formation class sessions throughout 2020-21, Joseph Blazosky was instructed and prepared for the Holy Mystery

of Repentance [Confession].

The occasion of his First Confession on Saturday, May 15 was then celebrated on Sunday, May 16 at the Sunday Divine Liturgy at SS. Peter and Paul Church in Portage, Pa. n

Joseph Blazosky (center) with his parents Bern and Jennifer Blazosky, Father James Spontak; Deacon Daniel Perich, and other members of his amily.

Celebrating Flag Day

by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.

On June 13, parishioners of St. Gregory, following the Divine Liturgy, gathered in our church hall to honor the flag of the United States.

This was a wonderful celebration as we honored the flag of the

United States which represents freedom and has always been an enduring symbol of our country’s ideals since its early days.

Afterward we continued with an ice cream social, sponsored by the GCU Pittsburgh South Regional Lodge, which was enjoyed by all. n

st. john the baptist in pittsburgh, pa.

Pasta Dinner fundraiser

by Barb Rebovich St. John the Baptist, Pittsburgh (South Side), Pa.

The Pittsburgh DeafBlind Lions Club (PDBLC) sponsored a June 19 fundraiser at St. John the Baptist Church in Pittsburgh (South Side), Pa. The Pasta Dinner was sold as takeout only. Included in the meal was linguini/sauce, meatballs, salad/dressing, bread/ butter and dessert.

The event was made possible because of donations made

by Vocelli Pizza, members of the parish as well as GCU GoGive.

Volunteers from the parish and Lions Club helped with food preparation and sales.

Proceeds from the event will be distributed to local charities as well as providing aid for individuals with hearing and/or visual impairment.

The event was the biggest and most profitable fundraiser to date.

Thanks to all the volunteers, donations and those who supported the dinner. n

Volunteers for food prep and sales: Bev Rebovich, Alex Plummer and Mary Huzenic.

Members of Pittsburgh DeafBlind Lions: Irene, Dennis,Brendon and Barb.

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Customers with Lions, homemade cupcakes.

holding

JULY 2021

parish news

continued

PAGE 9

st. john the baptist catehdral in munhall, pa.

Finders keepers St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. sponosred a Flea Market and bake sale June 4 to 5. under the direction of Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich.

Many hours of hard work by volunteer parishioners and the weather cooperating made the dual fund raising effort a success. n

Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.

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PAGE 10

parish news

holy ghost in pittsburgh, pa.

holy trinity in wall, pa.

Anniversary vestments Holy Trinity Parish in Wall, Pa. helped Father Don Bolls celebrate his sixth anniversary to the priesthood by presenting him with a set of vestments and a small reception in the church hall.

After some discussion among a few parishioners that Father Don needed new vestments, Marylyn Barone offered to make them.

In 2007 she bought the fabric and embellishments on a trip to

JULY 2021

continued

Russia.

Two years later she found a stichara to match at our seminary in Uzorad, Ukraine.

Until this point in time, no priest moved her enough to make vestments for them.

The entire congregation feels that he is such an asset to our clergy and we were fortunate enough to have him assigned to Holy Trinity. n

Pastor-Emeritus celebrates

by Father Frank Firko Holy Ghost, Pittsburgh, Pa. (North Side)

On Memorial Day, Monsignor Peter Tay, retired priest, and former pastor of Holy Ghost Church, North Side, Pittsburgh, Pa. observed his 67th year milestone of Priesthood Ordination.

He was ordained on May 31, 1954 by Bishop Daniel Ivancho. At right, Monsignor Tay concelebrates a Divine Liturgy of Thanksgiving at his residence with the assistance of the Protopresbyter, Father Frank Firko. On July 7, he will mark his 96th birthday. If you would like to send him an anniversary/ birthday card, his address is: 1200 San Pedro, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15212.

May God grant to His servant,

Monsignor Peter Tay

the priest, Monsignor Tay, health and salvation for many happy and blessed years! n

Holy Spirit cookies

by Father Frank Firko Holy Ghost, Pittsburgh, Pa. (North Side)

Father Don Bolls, Marylyn Barone

On the Patronal Feast of the Church, celebrating the Feast of the Descent of the All-Holy Spirit (Pentecost Sunday) at the distribution of Blessed Oil and Sacramental Bread (Mirovanije), a treat was given to all who had approached.

Thanks to parishioner Kathy Mullen, who made special homemade cookies in the form of a Dove (Holy Spirit), sprinkled with green glitter, symbolizing the Life-Creating Power of God the Holy Spirit, to be distributed

to all in attendance.

We are grateful to Kathy for originating this wonderful gesture to make Pentecost Sunday, our Patronal Feast, a special Remembrance Year! n

ss. peter and paul in tarentuim, pa.

Designs on winning

by Allyson Whitmer SS. Peter and Paul, Tarentum

This past school year, the Whitmer children — David Jr., William, and Celina — participated on a robotics team named Before Orange.

They had great success in the Pennsylvania state level of Robotics competitions and were awarded the Design Award for the robot they built.

Prior to being nominated to go the state level competition, the team won the Western Pennsylvania League Tournament Design Award.

Celina was one of three people nominated for the Dean’s List Award Finalist in the state of Pennsylvania.

If she is selected in late summer she will have the opportunity to attend a formal banquet with FIRST Tech Challenge in

Window dressing A “facelift” was completed to the church rectory at SS. Peter and Paul in Tarentum, Pa.

The rectory windows, which were orginal to the house that is over 100 years old, were replaced. n

Celina Whitmer

William Whitmer, David Whitmer Sr., Celina Whitmer

Detroit, Mich.

The Whitmers attend SS.Peter and Paul in Tarentum, Pa., where Celina manages the church website and both David Jr. and William are altar servers. n the byzantine catholic world

Photo by Allyson Whitmer

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st. john the baptist catehdral in munhall, pa.

Summer cruisin’ With the weather cooperating, St. John the Baptist Cathedral’s first Car Cruise of the summer was held May 25.

The fund raising event had nearly 150 cars participating in the show.

The family Summer Cruise and associated food and bake sales were quite successful endeavors.

The next Car Cruise this summer will be Tuesday, July 27 from 5 to 8 p.m., weather permitting. n

Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.

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JULY 2021

st. michael in campbell, ohio

Congratulations times two!

by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio

Our St. Michael Church extends congratulations to Jesse Santana who was installed as an

altar server May 30, the Sunday of All Saints.

May the Lord God grant to His new altar server, Jesse, peace, health and happiness for many years, na mnohaja i blahaja l'ita! n

It’s a grand ol’ flag

by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio

Following the June 13 Sunday Divine Liturgy, a flag ceremony was held.

Two new flags were blessed

by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio

Our St. Michael Church extends congratulations to Aubrey Lynn Vokish, who was installed as a reader of the epistle June 6.

May the Lord God grant to Aubrey, peace, health and happiness for many years, na mnohaja i blahaja l'ita! n

Painting project

The interior ceiling and arches of St. Michael in Campbell, Ohio is undergoing a painting project. Following the painting of the ceiling and walls, new icons will be installed this Fall. n

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and raised — American flag and Papal flag — at the parish flag pole followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Special thanks to GCU Lodge 360 for sponsoring the ceremony.

n

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st. michael in hermitage, pa.

On the right track Helping Hands Day Press release

Barb and Bill Dzuricsko were honored to represent Mercer County and District 10 and serve as officials for the PIAA Track & Field State Championships, held at Shippensburg University on May 28 to 29.

Barb and Bill are members of GCU Lodge # 258 and attend St. Michael Byzantine Catholic Church in Hermitage, Pa. where Father Kevin Marks is pastor.

Bill is President of Lodge #258 and one of the cantors and ECF Coordinator at St. Michael.

Barb and Bill were part of an eight-person crew, with other officials from Districts 3 and 6, needed to officiate the Triple Jump. Members of the crew rotated through the positions of: Wind Gauge Operator, Flight Coordinator, Tape Puller, Recorder, Board Judge, Marker, and Two Rakers. All of the officials helped with checking-in and inspecting athletes and their spikes; thumb-tacking down two runway tape measures, one for each jumping board; and carefully placing two new boards at the appropriate distances with levels and shims. This is the sixth year for Bill and the third year for Barb, for working the Triple Jump event at the State Meet.

Barb and Bill are members of the Lawrence County Chapter of PIAA Track and Field and Cross Country Officials. The Lawrence County Chapter serves the northern part of District 7, as well as the southern part of District 10. This year, the couple has worked meets as far north as Meadville, Cochranton, Titusville, and Jamestown, and as far south as Mohawk, Ellwood City, and Seneca Valley. They have also

worked the 2019 PIAA Cross Country State Championships, as well as several NCAA Division II meets at Slippery Rock University, and TF meets for the NCSAA (National Christian School Athletic Association) at Grove City College and Geneva College.

Bill has recently completed his 21st year of officiating Track and Field and his 10th year as the Rules Interpreter for the Chapter.

He also worked the AA and AAA Girls Shot Put events at the District 7 meet this year. Barb has completed her fifth year as a TF and CC Official and is the former District 10 Meet Director for TF (20 years) and CC (two years).

For the last four years leading up to the pandemic, they have attended a variety of TF and CC workshops at the PIAA Officials Convention in Harrisburg, Pa, and in 2016, Bill gave a one hour PowerPoint presentation entitled “Officiating the Triple Jump.”

Each year all of the officials in the Lawrence County Chapter attend six continuing education meetings and one mandatory Rules Interpretation Meeting.

District 10 was also represented at the PIAA State TF Meet

by Steve Snyder and Duane Northrop. Steve is a member of the Lawrence County Chapter, retired as an Elementary Teacher from Grove City Schools, and regularly works meets in Mercer County. He has been one of the Starters for the District 10 Meet and worked the Shot Put at Shippensburg. Duane is a member of the Gem City Chapter in Erie and worked the Discus Throws at both, the District 7 and District 10 meets. He served as a Track Umpire at the State Meet.

by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Hermitage, Pa.

GCU Lodge 258 held a "Helping Hands Day" at our St. Michael Social Center on Saturday, June 12.

Work included weeding around shrubs, picking up fallen leaves and branches, weed whacking and sweeping, and laying mulch.

Thanks to those who worked.

Great job! n

Raising the flags

by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Hermitage, Pa.

Following the June 12 Sunday Divine Liturgy, a flag ceremony was held.

Two new flags were blessed and raised — the American flag and

n

Barb Dzuricsko (front, second from right) and Bill Dzuricsko (back row, last on right) were represented Mercer County and District 10 and served as officials for the PIAA Track & Field State Championships, held at Shippensburg University on May 28 to 29.

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Papal flag — at the Social Center flag pole followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Special Thanks to GCU Lodge 258 for sponsoring the ceremony.

n

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JULY 2021

thoughts for our day

by Archpriest David M. Petras

the anaphora: we remember the faithful departed The sacrifice of the Divine Liturgy is offered for all humanity, both the living and the dead.

Since Christ died and rose for the life of all, we remember in the first place those who have achieved victory over sin, whom we call saints. We remember the Holy Theotokos, John the Baptist and the saint whose feast day it is by name, and the others by category. Then, we pray for those who are still struggling for salvation, for in the Liturgy we are in the presence of our Lord who is the “leader and perfecter of faith. For the sake of the joy that lay before him he endured the cross, despising its shame, and has taken his seat at the right of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2).

We pray for those who have fallen asleep (in death), for we are all together the Body of Christ.

Prayer for those departed is found even in the Old Testament, “he ( Judas Macchabeus) acted in a very excellent and noble way, inasmuch as he had the resurrection in mind; for if he were not expecting the fallen to rise again, it would have been superfluous and foolish to pray for the dead” (2 Maccabees 12:4344). This is confirmed by the constant and universal tradition of the Christian Church. St. Cyril of Jerusalem (4th century) clearly points this out: “We pray for the holy fathers and bishops who have fallen asleep, and in general for all those who have fallen asleep before us, in the

belief that it is a great benefit to the souls for whom the prayers are offered... In the same way, by offering to God our prayers for those who have fallen asleep and who have sinned, we offer Christ sacrificed for the sins of all, and by doing so, obtain the loving God’s favor for them and for ourselves.”

We pray for those who have fallen asleep (in death), for we are all together the Body of Christ.

In the Liturgy we pray for or with the saints, who have been glorified, but also for all the departed who are in need of our love and support. The general intercession for the departed is the same in both the Anaphora of St. Basil the Great and of St. John Chrysostom, “Remember as well all who have fallen asleep before us in the hope of resurrection to eternal life. And grant them rest where the light of your face watches over them.” While every Liturgy is offered for all the departed, there is also a provision to remember individual people by name. This is done by the priest as he prays the anaphora and also by the deacon as he censes around the holy table after the priest’s intercession.

The reason for our prayer is that, as human beings, we generally die

lacking that perfection needed to be in God’s living presence.

This reality is the teaching of both the Catholic and Orthodox Churches, and so in the most ancient prayer for the deceased, we ask, “As a good and loving God, forgive every sin committed by them in word, deed, or thought, since there is no one who lives and does not sin.” A Catholic will say that this is a prayer for the souls in purgatory. It is not necessary, though, to imagine purgatory like the picture written

by Dante. Pope St. John Paul II explained, “The term does not indicate a place, but a condition of existence. Those who, after death, exist in a state of purification, are already in the love of Christ who removes from them the remnants of imperfection.”

The word “purgatory” became a bone of contention between the Catholic and Orthodox Churches.

It would be better not to continue the polemics, but to recognize what both Churches accept as reality for the sake of our prayer, that people need to be purified to enter the fullness of their destiny to live in God as his children, and that our prayers are able to assist even the departed to reach their fulfillment.

How, indeed, does this prayer work? Jesus taught us that God has all of creation under his care, “Yet not one [sparrow] falls to the ground without your Father’s knowledge” (Matthew 10:29), and the Anaphora of St. Basil, God knows “the name and age of all, even from their mother’s womb.”

What can we add to God’s infinite providence, since we are creatures with limited powers and, indeed,

only those given to us by God? Our love is as nothing compared to the love of God for all. God will take care of all his creation with or without our own efforts.

Yet Christian love is the virtue by which we desire and seek the well-being, fulfillment, perfection and the good of all. It is called a “theological” virtue because we can practice it rightly only with the grace of God. When we pray for another within the Liturgy, we unite our “energy” of love with that of God, and what would seem useless on the created level becomes powerful in the presence of God. Our love for others, then, makes a great difference.

Every Liturgy, then, is for all people and for their salvation and sanctification. This is done through God’s love for us in the cross and resurrection.

However, we can bring the names of particular people into our consciousness and pray for them by name. By this offering, we unite our love for them to God’s love, in and through the grace of God. Sometimes, we seal this offering by a material donation.

In the Catholic tradition, this is called a stipend. It does not mean that we “buy” a Liturgy, or restrict its power of salvation, but that the person being prayed for is acknowledged by name as receiving the fruit of the sacrifice.

That is no small matter, for he or she is explicitly enfolded thereby in God’s plan of salvation. The offering itself is a free will donation for the support of the priest presiding or co-celebrating at the Liturgy. It is a visible sign of the human race becoming one in God. n

Parish Liturgies broadcast via internet Here is the most current list of parishes broadcasting Sunday Divine Liturgies and other services to the Faithful via their websites and social media sites such as Facebook.

For changes or to be listed, send information to bcw@archpitt.org.

Holy Ghost McKees Rocks, Pa. www.holyghostbyzantinecatholic.org www.youtube.com, then type Holy Ghost Church Live Stream

St. Michael Campbell, Ohio www.facebookcom/ st.michaelbyz.campbell

St. Elias Munhall, Pa. www.facebook.com/ StEliasByzantine CatholicChurch/

St. John Chrysostom Pittsburgh, Pa. www.sjcbcc.com

SS. Peter and Paul St. John the Baptist Cathedral St. Gregory Braddock, Pa. Munhall, Pa. Upper St. Clair, Pa. https://www.facebook.com/ www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com www.facebook.com/stgregoryusc SSPeterPaulBraddock/ the byzantine catholic world

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

With world still in knots, pope turns to Mary with prayers

“each day, taking our rosaries in our hands, we have turned our eyes to you, mother of mercy...”

by Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — Reaching the finish line of a monthlong rosary marathon, Pope Francis again turned to Mary, asking her to untie specific knots that have individuals and the whole world tangled in suffering and difficulty, either because of the COVID-19 pandemic or people’s selfish reactions to it.

A German image of Our Lady, Undoer of Knots — an image of Mary beloved by the pope — made a pilgrimage to the Vatican Gardens and was the centerpiece of the early evening prayer service May 31.

“Each day, taking our rosaries in our hands, we have turned our eyes to you, Mother of Mercy, pleading with you that the pandemic would end and humanity could resume its daily life with greater security,” the pope said as he introduced the prayer.

Pope Francis had started the month reciting the rosary in St. Peter’s Basilica. Each day afterward, the prayer was led by people gathered at a different Marian shrine or church around the world and was livestreamed on Vatican Media.

For the final rosary recitation, Bishop Bertram Johannes Meier of Augsburg, Germany, gave

the pope a special copy of an oil painting of Mary untying knots from a ribbon; the original, painted by Johann Georg Melchior Schmidtner, hangs in an Augsburg church where Pope Francis saw it as a student and began sharing the devotion with others.

After the recitation, the copy was delivered to the Domus Sanctae Marthae, where Pope Francis lives.

In his opening prayer at the rosary, Pope Francis said, “This evening we gather before you, our Virgin Mother, venerated in this image as the one who undoes knots. Many, in fact, are the knots entwined around our existence and binding our activities. They are the knots of selfishness and indifference, economic and social knots, knots of violence and war.”

A group of children who recently received their first Communion at a parish in Viterbo — the first in Italy to become a vaccination center — recently confirmed young people, a Scout troop and several families, including newlyweds and expectant parents, joined the pope for the prayer in the gardens. A total of about 300 people sat under umbrella pines and palm trees, gazing past arches of jasmine toward the Marian

Pope Francis leads an evening Marian prayer service in the Vatican Gardens May 31. The serviced finished a monthlong rosary marathon to pray for the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Catholic News Service photo/Filippo Monteforte, Reuters pool.

image and the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica behind it.

Each of the glorious mysteries of the rosary was preceded by a short Bible reading and a special prayer about a “knot” needing to be undone: individualism and indifference; unemployment; domestic violence and social tensions arising from “injustice and a lack of solidarity”; sickness and a lack of solidarity in providing health care for all; and anything holding individual Catholics and their parishes back

from gathering for prayer and formation and reaching out to those in need.

After reciting the rosary, Pope Francis crowned the image of Our Lady, Undoer of Knots.

“You, who know how to untie the knots of our existence and know the desires of our hearts, come to our aid,” the pope prayed.

“We are certain that, as at Cana in Galilee, you will ensure that joy and celebration will return to our homes after this time of trial.” n

On the cross and still today, Jesus prays for everyone, pope says “jesus prays for me — each one of us can keep this in our heart. do not forget it...”

by Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY — Jesus is always praying for each and every person, desiring that his word would help people in their lives and that they never would feel alone, Pope Francis said.

“Jesus prays for me — each one of us can keep this in our heart.

Do not forget it, even during those terrible moments,” the pope said June 16 during his weekly general audience.

With the grace of being able to pray to God and knowing we have been “prayed for,” the pope said, “we have only to have courage and hope” to be able to journey on in life and give glory to God. The audience was held in the San Damaso Courtyard of the Apostolic Palace, where the pope first walked along the barricades, greeting people, shaking hands, signing books and giving his blessing. While attendees were

obliged to wear masks, many had them down or pulled them down during their moment with the pope.

In his main audience talk, the pope concluded his series on prayer, which he began May 6, 2020, offering a total of 38 reflections on the theme.

“Prayer is one of the most evident features of the life of Jesus,” the pope said. “He prayed and prayed a lot,” immersing himself in it “because dialogue with the Father was the incandescent core of all his existence.”

At the Last Supper, Jesus intercedes for his disciples and for all those who will believe in him through their word and, even during the darkest hours of suffering on the cross, Jesus continues to pray, showing he is “the absolute intercessor: he prays for others, for everyone, even for those who have condemned him,” he said.

“Jesus prayed for everyone, he also prayed for me, for each one

Pope Francis blesses a pregnant woman during his general audience in the San Damaso Courtyard of the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican June 16. Catholic News Service photo/Paul Haring.

of you. Each one of us can say that Jesus, on the cross, prayed for me,” and still prays for everyone each day, he said.

“Even in the most painful of our sufferings, we are never alone.

Jesus’ prayer is with us,” he said.

On the cross he offers his love, “that is, he brings about our salvation,” Pope Francis said.

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Jesus “was not a philanthropist who took care of human suffering and illness — he was that, but was more than that,” he said. In him there is not only goodness, there is “total salvation, messianic salvation, that gives hope in the definitive victory of life over death.” n

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around the archeparchy CAR CRUISE — Tuesday, July 27, St. John the Baptist Cathedral, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, Pa. Join your friends and family this summer in enjoying food, raffles, oldies music and classic cars.

Hamburgers, hot dogs, kolbassi, halushki, fresh-cut French fries and a monthly special will be served. Car Cruises will also take place Aug. 17 and Sept. 21.

NIGHT AT THE RACES — 6-10:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 21, St. John the Baptist (South Side), St. John Chrysostom Hall, 506 Saline St., Pittsburgh, Pa. Cost: $15 includes dinner, snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. BYOB, raffle baskets and 50/50 drawings.

Contact Bev Rebovich at 412-431-1116 to reserve a spot.

ST. ELIAS SOCIAL HALL, 4200 Homestead-Duquesne Road, Munhall, Pa. is available to rent for all your gatherings, large or small. Plenty of off-street parking is available. Call 412-461-9271 for availability and information.

Readers of The Byzantine Catholic World

want to know what’s happening in your parish!

Send stories and photos to: bcw@archpitt.org

BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY Sundays 9:00 a.m. • WEDO Radio • 810 AM Broadcast live from Holy Ghost Church, McKees Rocks

OR via Internet: click “Listen Live” link at www.holyghost-byzantinecatholic.org

SS. PETER AND PAUL FESTIVAL — Noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, July 11, SS. Peter and Paul, 143 Church Drive, Portage, Pa. SS. Peter and Paul Parish hosts this annual event which welcomes friends and patrons from the nearby vicinity and throughout the area. The outdoor environment provides a pleasant setting in which to relax and enjoy the live entertainment. The entertainment is free, so bring a lawn chair to enjoy the live bands throughout the day.: Rosie and the Jammers playing from Noon to 3:30 p.m. (polka melodies), Full Kilt from 4:30 to 8 p.m. (Celtic Rock). Menu offers homemade ethnic dishes and other popular items, including roast pork sandwiches, BBQ chicken, halushki, halupki, pirohi, Sloppy Joes, kielbasa, hot dogs, hot sausage, wing dings and French fries.

A bake sale with our own homemade Gobs and a variety of baked goods, candy apples and other items; also funnel cakes and ice cream. Soda, bottled water, beer and wine coolers will be available.

A Basket Raffle offers some premium selections of baskets as prizes.

There is Bingo, cash raffle, and other games of chance. Children’s games with prizes and a Stuffed Animal booth entertain the kids throughout the day. The church building is open throughout the afternoon. A brief guided tour is offered at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to explain the icons and features of the beliefs and practices of our Byzantine Catholic Church. Visit us at www.ByzantineCatholic. net or “like” us on Facebook to learn about us and our festival.

dates to remember JULY 4 Independence Day — National Observance Chancery closed July 5 JULY 20 Feast of St. Elijah Great Prophet AUG. 15 Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos

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next issue: AUGUST 2021`

submissions DEADLINE: JULY 21 See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org

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