BCW VOL. 66 NO. 8 Aug 2021

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RLD

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHEPARCHY OF PITTSBURGH

Inside

“one body in christ” Office of Religious Education sponsors “Catechesis: The Plurality of Methods” Page 5

VOL. 66 NO. 8 AUGUST 2021

home away from home St. Mary Holy Protection in Trauger, Pa. welcomes Saint Vincent College students Page 11

“A priest forever”

deacon miron kerul’-kmec jr. ordained to priesthood june 26

Father Miron Kerul’-Kmec Jr. (left) was ordained to the priesthood June 26 by Archbishop William Skurla at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. Photo by Nick Havrilla Sr. For more photos, see page 3.

By The Byzantione Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh

Deacon Miron Kerul’-Kmec Jr. was ordained a priest forever

by Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla during the Divine Liturgy on Saturday, June 26 at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. Concelebrating with the Metropolitan were Reverend Father Miron Kerul’-Kmec Sr., father of the ordinand; Very Reverend Archpriest Michael Hayduk; and Reverend Fathers Kevin Marks and David Abernethy. Deacon Robert Jones, Sub-deacons Michael Kunitz and Timothy Fariss, seminarians and a large contingent of altar servers from St Nicholas Church in Barberton, Ohio assisted. Very Reverend Andrew Deskevich and Reverend Father Valerian Michlik served as Masters of Ceremonies, and Darlene Fejka and several members of

the Archeparchial choir led the congregational singing. Father Miron Sr. presented his son for ordination.

In attendance were: Very Reverends Vasyl Polyak and Bryan Eyman; Reverend Fathers Robert Karl, William Rupp, Joel Barstad and Jan Cizmar; Abbot Leo Schlosser; Monsignor Lawrence Dominik; and Deacon Robert Cripps.

Archbishop William welcomed everyone, thanked them for coming, and congratulated Father Miron’s family.

In his homily the Archbishop noted the joy of celebrating the ordination for Father Miron, whom he has watched grow in wisdom and strength just as did Jesus. Now he is someone to help share the ministry of the Archbishop. With every step toward ordination, there were challenges and the call to constant learning and growth every day. Now, as a priest, Father

Miron will find that as he begins his pastoral ministry he will continue to learn and grow in different ways every day.

Following the liturgy of ordination, a light reception was enjoyed in the lower level of the Cathedral.

The next day, Sunday, June 27, Father Miron Jr. concelebrated his first Divine Liturgy with his father, Father Miron Sr., at his home parish, St. Nicholas Church, in Barberton.

He also baptized his son Miron Theophan.

Newly ordained Father Miron’s journey to this day began in Kosice in Slovakia where he was born, the son of a Greek Catholic priest. Growing up, he was very familiar with life in the Church and living in a rectory. With his parents, Father Miron Sr. and mother Marcella, he came Continued on page 4

“slovakia: how we got from there to here” Library Ministry Speakers Platform returns to St. Gregory in Upper St. Clair, Pa. Page 15

eternal memory father thomas g. schaefer Reverend Father Thomas G. Schaefer of Pittsburgh, Pa. unexpectedly fell asleep in the Lord on July 3, 2021 while vacationing in California. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa. on July 7, 1951, the only child of the late Gerard and Josephine (Sobczak) Schaefer. Father Tom was the beloved cousin of the Golembiewski, Janosko, Sobczak, Zebracki, and Schaefer Families.

He was also a caring and special friend to many.

His early education was at St. Vincent De Paul elementary school and St. Francis De Sales High School in McKees Rocks, Pa. He attended St. Mary Seminary University in Baltimore where he received a BA in Language and Literature in 1974. After this, he spent nine years in the Peace Corps in Central Africa, and he also attended the Major Seminary in Emile Biayenda, Congo in 1981 and 1982.

He received his first Masters Degree in teaching French and English as a second language at the School of International Training in Brattleboro, Vermont in 1981.

Father Thomas entered the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers (Spiritans) in 1982. On July 24 of that year, he was ordained a priest in the chapel of Duquesne Continued on page 6

Father Thomas G. Schaefer

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AUGUST 2021

from the office of the metropolitan

COVID Obligations — Restrictions Lifted

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

We have all known and felt the impact of COVID-19 in so many ways as individuals and families, among friends and at work. It has been a time of hardship and struggle, of separation and isolation. It has also had an impact on our lives of faith. Now, as life returns to normalcy in so many ways, it is also time for us to return to Sunday Divine Liturgy.

In our Archeparchy, we will reinstate the obligation to attend the Divine Liturgy in person on Sundays and Holy Days beginning on Sunday, August 15, 2021, the feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, the Mother of God. As your Archbishop, I had dispensed you from this obligation in the Spring of 2020 as the developing coronavirus pandemic required people not to assemble in group settings. Now, with the impact of the pandemic considerably reduced, it is again possible for the faithful to assemble for the Liturgy.

This obligation, as is always the case, does not apply to those who are seriously ill, have a serious health risk, as well as, those who have significant fear or anxiety of being in a large group at this time. Likewise, the obligation does not apply to those who care for those who cannot attend the Divine Liturgy in person. Those excused from participation in the Divine Liturgy are encouraged to spend time in prayer, meditating on the Death and Resurrection of the Lord, reading the Sacred Scriptures, and uniting themselves to Christ in his worship of the Father of us all.

Those who are legitimately excused are also encouraged to listen to the radio broadcast of the Divine Liturgy, or to participate through one of the computer or Facebook live stream offerings from one of our churches.

The spacing restrictions and special communion practices are also discontinued as of August 15, 2021.

Catholic Church; to encourage faithful to reflect the image of Christ in everyday activities

Sincerely yours in Christ,

of life; to offer spiritual formation through changing times; and to celebrate community among Byzantine Catholics in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh,

Most Reverend William C. Skurla, D.D. Metropolitan Archbishop of Pittsburgh

throughout the Metropolitan Church in America, and around the world. the byzantine catholic world

official appointments by metropolitan archbishop william

May 19, 2021 n Father William Rupp, at his own request, relieved as Director of Spiritual Formation at SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary and as Priest for the Spiritual Needs of the Faithful of St. Nicholas Chapel, Beaver, and appointed Temporary Administrator of SS. Peter and Paul Parish, Duquesne, Pa. June 15, 2021 n Deacon Miron Kerul’Kmec from the Eparchy of Parma accepted for ascription into the Archeparchy.

July 15, 2021 n Very Reverend Elias L. Rafaj relieved as pastor of St. John Chrysostom Church, Houston, Texas and administrator of the mission in San Antonio, Texas, and appointed pastor of St. Basil the Great Church, Irving, Texas. n Father Thomas Wells appointed pastor of St. John Chrysostom Church, Houston, Texas and administrator of the mission in San Antonio, Texas. n Father Christopher Andrews, OSB relieved as administrator of St. Basil Church to return to his religious community.

AUGUST 2021

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Seminary 10-year strategic plan approved Press release by the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius

The Seminary Board of Directors approved a strategic plan for the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius at its May 18 meeting.

The new plan will lead the seminary’s strategic initiatives through the end of the current decade.

The Director of Accreditation, Helen Kennedy, was responsible for providing the oversight of the strategic planning process along with her participation with a Steering Committee consisting of the Rector, Father Robert Pipta; the Academic Dean/Director of Intellectual Formation, Father Christiaan Kappes; and the Director of Human Formation, Father Joel Barstad.

A strategic planning committee consisting of formation, administrative and support staff, faculty, and seminarians was charged to identify where attention should be directed for the seminary for the next 10 years.

They were encouraged to develop strategic goals to: (1) give attention to specific areas identified by the A.T.S. (Association of Theological Schools) for needed growth with encouragement not to lose sight of the seminary’s recognized achievements (2) identify institutional goals to strengthen the foundation of the seminary for the next generation and (3) create specific goals and action steps to respond to A.T.S. requirements to respond to three required reports addressing areas of needed improvement. These included enhancing institutional development, improving information technology resources to train faculty in the use of instructional student learning platforms, and developing a plan to eliminate barriers that exclude or deter people that live with a disability.

A draft of the strategic plan was shared in the spring of 2021 with all the constituents of the Seminary (faculty, staff, seminarians, administrators, board of directors, and an external ad hoc group of graduates).

Their comments, thoughts, and reactions were solicited realizing the importance of their opinions on a plan that would affect the Seminary for the next 10 years.

When the vetting process was completed and appropriate revisions were made, the plan was submitted to the Board.

The strategic plan includes

eight goals. Each goal includes objectives as well as corresponding action steps to be accomplished: Goal 1: To articulate and promote a new vision for the Seminary’s Community of Aspirants.

Goal 2: To develop a D.Min. degree program for seminarian and MAT-Chaplaincy graduates.

Goal 3: To enhance technology resources.

Goal 4: To enhance faculty recruitment and develop a succession plan.

Goal 5: To create an Academic Journal.

Goal 6: To create an institutional development strategy essential to developing financial resources for the ongoing plans of the Seminary.

Goal 7: To develop a plan for a more welcoming, hospitable, accessible, and prayerful Seminary.

Goal 8: To develop a marketing outreach program.

The Seminary has always had to adapt to the needs of the faithful, the seminarians, and its students.

With the acknowledgment that the next 10 years may be challenging for the Church, this plan includes action steps to adapt to the needs of the faithful.

The plan includes action steps for outreach and engagement with parishes as well as the consideration of ways to equip lay parish leaders.

With the challenge of the viability of many Eastern Churches, the Byzantine Catholic Seminary wants to do nothing less than support any strategic initiatives that will heal, grow, and revitalize the Church.

The Strategic Plan can be found on the Seminary website at www. bcs.edu (About Us/Governance/ Strategic Plan). n

Seminary announces new Director of Assessment

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 that Metropolitan William has appointed Dr. Matthew Minerd as its new Director of Assessment effective June 25, 2021.

Dr. Minerd has served as a professor of philosophy and moral theology at SS. Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Seminary since 2017 and was involved in the drafting of our self-study in preparation for the 2020 accreditation visitation by the Association of Theological Schools. In addition to his teaching duties, he is an active translator of theological and philosophical books and articles.

This summer, his text, “Made by God, Made for God: Catholic Morality Explained,” written for non-academic readers, is to be

Dr. Matthew Minerd

published by Ascension Press in August. He lives in Uniontown with his wife and two daughters and is a parishioner at St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church, where he is a cantor.

The Director of Assessment leads the process of continuing Seminary assessment and evaluation working collaboratively with the Director of Accreditation, the faculty, and the staff to maintain expectations provided by accreditation and authorization standards. n

eternal memory gertrude shirilla

By Mary Tiberi and Bernie Karoffa St. Mary’s Assumpition in New Salem, Pa.

The parishioners of St. Mary’s Assumption Byzantine Catholic Church in New Salem, Pa. were saddened by the loss of their beloved cantor, Gertrude Shirilla, who fell asleep in the Lord on May 11 at the age of 94.

She was born on Jan. 13, 1927 in Newboro, Pa. to the late Walter and Helen Molek Sheroke.

Gertrude was a member of St. Mary’s Assumption Church and led the rosary there for more than 50 years.

She was a volunteer at Mount St. Macrina since she was 26 years old and a member of the 3rd Order of St. Francis (SFO) for 50 years.

She was predeceased by her husband Joseph Shirilla, brother Richard Sheroke, and sisters Helen Ondrish and Elizabeth Sheroke.

She is survived by four children: Gregory Shirilla and wife Kimberly, Mary Tiberi and husband Joseph, Helene Biller and husband Francis, and Christina Simmons and husband Robert.

She also has brothers Walter and Theodore Sheroke, seven grandchildren and six greatchildren.

Father Christopher Burke, pastor of St. Mary’s Assumption Church, said in his homily that it was a great honor for a cantor to lead the congregation of a church in singing God’s praises here on earth.

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Gertrude Shirilla

He believes Gertrude will now continue singing His praises with the angels in heaven.

The former pastor, Father Jerome Botsko, spoke of Gertrude’s many hours of work she did for her church and of the kindness she had shown him over the years.

Not only will her beautiful voice singing the many hymns in English and Old Slavonic be missed but her many other talents of taking care of the altar linens and decorating the church throughout the year, especially during Easter season, will also be missed.

Her two nephews, Nick Lizanich and Tim Shirilla, both cantors in the Parma Eparchy in Ohio, sang the responses at the Funeral Divine Liturgy and all the other services for their aunt.

Interment was in Mount St. Macrina Cemetery in Uniontown, Pa. Vicnaja parmjat, Gertrude! n

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“A priest forever”

AUGUST 2021

deacon miron kerul’-kmec jr. ordained to priesthood june 26

Story continued from page 1 to America when he was 14 years old. The family eventually settled at St. Nicholas Church in Barberton, where Father Miron was appointed pastor. Miron Jr. became acquainted in the ways of American life at St. Mary Byzantine School in Cleveland, Coventry High School and the University of Akron.

Following the call to holiness and the priesthood which he had discerned at a very young age, he entered SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Pittsburgh. He graduated with the Master of Arts in Theology degree.

He received minor orders, married Sarah Seay and was ordained by Most Reverend Milan Lach SJ, Bishop of the Eparchy of Parma, to the Diaconate on May 21, 2020. A year later, Deacon Miron requested canonical transfer to the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, and Archbishop William accepted him on June 15, 2021. With his ordination to the Presbyterate, Father Miron Jr. is ascribed a priest of Pittsburgh. Deacon Miron and Sarah welcomed their son, Miron Theophan, on May 12, 2021.

May God grant to the Priest Miron peace, health and happiness for many blessed years! Axios! n

Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.

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“One Body in Christ: Re-emerging from the Pandemic”

assembly of the byzantine catholic metropolitan church set for nov 5 to 6 in munhall, pa.

Schedule

The Archeparchial Office of Religious Education has announced the Assembly of the Byzantine (Ruthenian) Metropolitan Church will be held Nov. 5 to 6 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. This will be an in-person event.

The theme of the 2021 Assembly is “One Body in Christ: Reemerging from the Pandemic.”

Friday, Nov, 5, 2021 6 p.m.

Registration & Social (Cathedral lower level) 7 p.m.

Welcome – Father Andrew Deskevich,Protosyncellus, Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, Cathedral Rector

Presenters

Archpriest John S. Kachuba, MA Ordained in 1974 for the Eparchy of Parma, Father John has served in leadership roles on a local, national and international level. He is the Spiritual Advisor for the Greek Catholic Union and a member of the Board of Directors.

Therese Fetsko, BA Therese is the Executive Assistant for the Eparchy of Parma. She graduated from Christendom College in 2010 with a BA in Philosophy and History. She is gifted with organizational skills and participates in Right to Life Activities.

Deacon Thomas P. Shubeck, Ph.D Ordained to the Deaconate for the Eparchy of Passaic in 2015, Deacon Tom holds degrees from Purdue University, Loyola of Maryland, University of Connecticut and Rutgers in Counseling Psychology, Marriage and Family Life and Pastoral Theology. He serves at St. Thomas the Apostle Byzantine Catholic Church in Rahway, N.J. Father Valerian M. Michlik, JCOL Ordained to the Presbyterate in 2000, Father Valerian is Professor of Pastoral Practice and Canon Law at SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary and Instructor in the Deaconate Program for the Archeparchy. He is Pastor of St. Gregory Nazianzus Byzantine Catholic Church in Upper St. Clair, Pa.

Bishop Kurt Burnette, DD Bishop Kurt has a doctorate in Mathematics, a member of the California Bar Association and has a licentiate in Canon Law from the Pontifical Oriental Institute in Rome. He has extensive pastoral experience in addition to jail and prison ministry. Bishop Kurt served as rector of SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary.

Deacon Basil Balke, MA MTh. Ordained for the Eparchy of Phoenix, Deacon Basil holds a Masters of Arts in Counseling from Regis University and a Masters of Theology from the University of Balaamond. He serves at Holy Protection of the Mother of God in Denver, Colo., owns an IT company and is the web/media master for the Eparchy of Phoenix.

Christopher Russo, BS Christopher is a graduate from Penn State University, currently working on his Master's degree in Biotechnology at Harvard University. He is a Senior Research Associate at Fulcrum Therapeutics in Cambridge, MA. Christopher is a member of St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church in Danbuy, Conn. and the creator of “Theosis in Action” a Young Adult Ministry. n

7:10 p.m.

Opening Prayer & Introduction Archpriest John Kachuba & Therese Fetsko Eparchy of Parma 7:30 p.m.

Looking Back: Looking Ahead with a Hopeful Heart Deacon Tom Shubeck Eparchy of Passaic 8:15 p.m.

Social 9 p.m.

Departure Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021 9:15 a.m.

Registration, Coffee & Vendors (Cathedral Center) 10 a.m.

Opening Prayer & Welcome Metropolitan William 10:15 a.m.

Our Worship Post Pandemic Father Valerian Michlik Archeparchy of Pittsburgh & Father Andrew Summerson Eparchy of Parma 11:15 a.m.

Break 11:30 a.m.

The Eucharist: Holy Gifts to Holy People Most Rev. Bishop Kurt Burnette Eparchy of Passaic

Father Andrew Summerson, S.Th.D Ordained in 2015 for the Eparchy of Parma, Father Andrew is a scholar in Early Christianity and Greek Patristic tradition. Presently, he is pastor of St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, Whiting Ind. He has membership in the Society of Biblical Literature and North American Patristics Society. the byzantine catholic world

12:30 p.m.

Light Lunch 1:15 p.m.

Growing Parishes Post Pandemic Deacon Basil Balke Eparchy of Phoenix 2:15 p.m.

Break 2:30 p.m.

Breakout Sessions 3:30 p.m.

Break 3:45 p.m.

Summary & Discussion (Where do we go from here?)

Christopher Russo Eparchy of Passaic 4:30 p.m.

Break 5 p.m.

Vigil Divine Liturgy 6:15 p.m.

Dinner Catered by Cathedral (Cathedral Center) Breakout Sessions Location TBA Young Byzantine Catholic Adults Engaging Their Faith Christopher Russo Eparchy of Passaic Looking Back: Looking Ahead with a Hopeful Heart (Continued) Deacon Tom Shubeck Eparchy of Passaic Media in our Byzantine Catholic Faith Deacon Basil Balke Eparchy of Phoenix

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text messages

Remembering Father Thomas

by David Mayernik Jr. Editor

I can tell Father Thomas Schaefer is a remarkable man just by reading his obituary (Page 1).

I can only imagine what it was like to know him personally.

Father Thomas unexpectedly fell asleep in the Lord on July 3 while vacationing in California.

I was in awe reading his many spiritual and academic accomplishments while preparing this month’s issue of The Byzantine Catholic World.

Father Thomas volunteered for nine years in the Peace Corps in Central Africa, and he also attended the Major Seminary in Emile Biayenda, Congo in 1981 and 1982.

He spoke many languages — including French, Spanish, Sango and Latin — and was studying Arabic and Hebrew.

(In stark contrast, I’m still trying to master the English language in my day-to-day life.)

Unfortunately, any interactions I had with Father Thomas were limited to large-scale gatherings, such as past Assemblies.

He would email photos of his parishes — St. John the Baptist and St. John Chrysostom, both in Pittsburgh — to publish in The BCW. Last year, while working on a story about George, Tichi, cantor at St. Gregory in Upper St. Clair, Pa. who was celebrating his birthday, I had to call on Father Thomas for help.

George was previously a cantor at St. John Chrysostom and recalled he was encouraged by cantor Peter Korpos to sing at 10 years old.

I wasn’t certain how to spell Peter’s surname so I decided to ask Father Thomas for help.

I did speak with him following “An Evening of Repentance” at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in April 2017, which marked the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.

He helped plan the event, which brought together those of the Byzantine and Roman Catholic and Lutheran faiths.

Father Tom told me he witnessed many heartwarming sights.

“It was really quite beautiful. It was much more dynamic than we could have ever hoped for. People stayed, they ate, there was plenty of food and there was just a lot of sharing that took place that was extremely positive.” n

AUGUST 2021

reflection from

Eternal Memory

mount st. macrina

continued from page 1

University in Pittsburgh.

With further graduate studies at Duquesne, Father Thomas earned a Masters degree in Liberal Studies in 1987; a Masters Degree in Formative Spirituality in 1989; and a Doctorate (PhD) in the Science of Human Formation in 1997.

During 1983 and 1984, his responsibilities at Duquesne University included Campus Ministry, Vocations Office, and Director of the Spiritan Pre-Novitiate Program. From 1991 through 2001 he served as Dean in the Office of Domestic Admissions and International Affairs.

During this time Father Thomas was also named Assistant Priest at St. Anthony Church and Pastor of St. Stanislaus Church in the Strip District of Pittsburgh.

Father Thomas left the Spiritan Fathers on March 1, 2001, and was received a priest of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh.

His pastorates included the parishes of Nativity of the Mother of God, Greenfield and St. Mary, Ambridge. Both St. John the Baptist and St. John Chrysostom in Pittsburgh were his parishes until his death. He also served on several committees and boards of SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary.

In 2002, Father Thomas began a faithful and dedicated time of ministry to La Roche University in the North Hills of Pittsburgh.

Among other contributions to programs of global interest and language, his offices included Associate Vice-President for Academic Affairs, Dean of Domestic Admissions and International Affairs and Director of External Relations, Pacem in Terris Institute.

Presently, he was contributing in various board member capacities to Sage Scholars, Philadelphia; Pittsburgh Regional Science Initiative; Holy Family Institute; Sister Thea Bowman Foundation; and Hobson’s Digital Media Inc. A scholar and academician, Father Thomas held many professional memberships, and was the author of various publications.

He loved people, music, learning, and everything international – especially African. He deeply appreciated the beauty of music and the arts. He was proficient in French, Spanish, Sango and Latin languages; had a working knowledge of Polish; and was currently studying Arabic and Hebrew.

Friends were received at the Chapel of the Sisters of Divine

“Blessed are those who mourn”

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.

This is a transcript of her July 17. 2020 reflection.

Father Thomas G. Schaefer

Providence in Allison Park, Pa. on Wednesday morning, July 14, 2021, and a Roman Catholic Mass was celebrated after the viewing.

Friends were then received that day and on Thursday, July 15 at Father Thomas’ parish, St. John Chrysostom Church in Pittsburgh.

The funeral service for a priest was celebrated by Very Reverend Andrew J. Deskevich that evening. Concelebrants were Very Reverend Frank A. Firko, and Reverend Fathers Thomas E. Dansak, and Michael Huszti.

The funeral Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla on Friday morning, July 16 at the Cathedral of St. John, Munhall Pa. Concelebrating with the Metropolitan were Most Reverend Kurt Burnette, Bishop of Passaic; Very Reverends Andrew J. Deskevich and Father Frank A. Firko; and Reverend Father Stephen J. Wahal. Deacon Paul Simko was the Deacon, and many priests of the Archeparchy attended. Local cantors led by Kevin Beres led the congregational singing.

The homilist was Reverend Father Jeffrey T. Duaime C.S.Sp. In his homily Father Duaime compared Father Thomas to Saint Thomas of the gospel that had just been read. Once St. Thomas became the believer and not the doubter, he lived life to the fullest in the Resurrection.

Father Thomas too, always lived life to the fullest in the Resurrection.

He enjoyed living, he loved people, and most of all he loved celebrating the liturgy because he believed that it brought people closer to God. Interment followed at St. Mary Cemetery, McKees Rocks, Pa. In blessed repose grant O Lord eternal rest to your departed servant the priest Thomas and remember him forever! n

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Glory to Jesus Christ!

This month, we continue with the second of the Beatitudes proposed in the Sermon on the Mount: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

Have you had a good cry about this life situation that we’re in presently? Some people have had very serious reasons for a cry but it does affect all of us in some way.

This is what it is to mourn; to express grief that is underneath the mourning, through ritual, through crying, through whatever means that fits for you.

How do we get the strength to live these Beatitudes? Here we have one that is tough: “Blessed are those who mourn.”

Actually, the secret is in the first Beatitude: “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” Because they’re the ones — if we have that attitude — that go to the Lord and we trust Him to empower us for life and all of its challenges.

When we mourn, we are very often faced with the unhappy in life and hopefully also faced with our own sin and sinfulness: “How do I contribute to what is unhappy in my life? In life in general?”

And so, the first repentance is to our sins and when we repent and ask the Lord’s forgiveness, we get it immediately. He is mercy. He is love. He has lived this human life and He loves and understands us.

But beyond that, we have our ongoing pattern of sin called “sinfulness;” that which is with us all the time. These are harder to change because we develop a comfort with them. That’s what a habit is. It happens quickly before we even stop and think.

It can become a hardness of heart, in that we’re a little bit blind.

In moments like this — external events like this: calamities, suffering — the Holy Spirit can use that to open our eyes, open the eyes of our heart, as well, to what are the blinding elements that keep me from truly living with grace and bringing grace into this world.

Let us pray for each other in this holy time.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

God bless you. n

parish news AUGUST 2021

PAGE 7

ss. peter and paul in warren, ohio

st. john the baptist in scottdale, pa.

Congrats to Father Simeon!

Parish picnic fun

by Lisa Mosko SS. Peter and Paul, Warren, Ohio

More than 100 of our Parish family and guests honored Father Simeon Sibenik on his 40th anniversary of Ordination June 20 at DiLucia’s Banquet Room.

We also celebrated Father’s Day, Belated Mother’s Day, and SS. Peter and Paul Feast Day. The dinner was delicious, and we all enjoyed a chance to socialize.

May God grant Father Simeon peace, health and happiness for many years! n

The fourth annual parish picnic at St. John in Scottdale, Pa. was held July 27. Father Oleh Seremchuk is pastor. n

John Onusko, Mike Marcej and Steve Motsey busy cooking burgers and hot dogs on the grill.

Church members enjoying each other’s company.

Many delicious covered dishes were provided by church members.

Father Oleh Seremchuk congratulates Betty Sapola as a distinguished member of the parish.

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Father Oleh Seremchuk congratulates Andy Lipko as a distinguished member of the parish.

PAGE 8

parish news

continued

AUGUST 2021

st. john the baptist cathedral in munhall, pa.

Take-home dinner St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. served a midsummer take out roast beef dinner July 17 and 18.

Under the direction of Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich, the meal was prepared and served by parish volunteers.

The culinary endeavor was a financial success, very nearly selling out of prepared dinners.

The hard work of the parishioners made the event another big success for our Byzantine community. n

Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.

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AUGUST 2021

parish news

continued

st. michael in campbell, ohio

“Treasured” experience

by Father Kevin Marks St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio

St. Michael in Campbell, Ohio sponsored its “Treasured” Vacation Bible School the week of July 12.

Throughout the past week at ‘Treasured’” Vacation Bible School our parish children learned that God knows, hears, comforts, forgives and chooses them because they are His priceless treasure especially during times when they may feel anxious, scared, angry, frustrated or hurt. n

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PAGE 10

parish news

st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa.

Fore!

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

A few rain drops did not stop St. Gregory's parishioners from gathering at Cool Springs Sports Complex for an evening of Mini Golf.

A few minutes into our game the rain stopped and we all had a wonderful evening of fun and fellowship. At the end of the evening we all enjoyed ice cream. n

AUGUST 2021

continued

ss. peter and paul in patton, pa.

New Icon blessed

by Vickie Soyka SS. Peter and Paul, Patton, Pa.

Following the July 4 Divine Liturgy, Rev. Edward Pyo and the parishioners of SS. Peter and Paul in Patton, Pa. blessed a new Icon of the Theotokos for the shrine built on church property in 1965

by Mr. Edward Julick.

The Icon, written by Ms. Joyce Mitchell, Mr. Julick’s daughter, is of the Protection of the Mother of God and commemorates her feast day of Oct. 1 and the death of the shrines builder Mr. Julick. n

Michael Dautlick, Vickie Legros Dautlick (Mr. Julick’s cousin and goddaughter), Bob Williams, Irene Williams (Mr. Julick’s sister), Joyce Mitchell, Rev. Edward Pyo, Deacon Raymond Zadzilko, and Altar Server Jack Soyka.

ss. peter and paul in punxsutawney, pa.

Feast Day celebration

SS. Peter and Paul in Punxsutawney, Pa. celebrated the Feast Day of its patron saints June 29. Father Vasyl Kadar is pastor. n

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st. john the baptist cathedral in munhall, pa.

Summer cruisin’, Part 2 With sunny and mild weather, St. John the Baptist Cathedral’s second Car Cruise of the summer was held June 15.

Led by Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich, the family-oriented fund raising event was again a successful endeavor for the Cathedral.

The next Car Cruise this summer will be Tuesday, Aug. 17 from 5 to 8 p.m., weather permitting. n

Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.

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AUGUST 2021

st. michael in hermitage, pa.

Happy birthday, Father Kevin!

by William Dzuricsko St. Michael, Hermitage, Pa.

Following the 4 p.m. June 26 Divine Liturgy, members of St. Michael in Hermitage, Pa. held a surprise birthday for their pastor, Rev. Father Kevin Marks.

It was such a well-planned surprise, that Father Kevin was unaware and was unable to attend on Saturday because he was concelebrating an ordination in Pittsburgh!

So the parishioners sang, "Happy Birthday,” recorded it on a cell phone, and sent him the video so that he could enjoy

the surprise! Then they enjoyed their cake and lemonade! When Father Kevin returned on Sunday morning for the 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy, the parishioners sang "Happy Birthday" again, and presented him with a gift card and a beautifully decorated large card signed with well wishes from the people.

Father Kevin blew out his candles and everyone enjoyed another round of birthday cake and coffee! Special thanks to GCU Lodge # 258 for providing the refreshments.

Happy Birthday Father Kevin and “thank you” for all that you do for our parish and the Archeparchy! n

Celebrating Flag Day

by William Dzuricsko St. Michael, Hermitage, Pa.

During the weekend of June 12 to 13, GCU Lodge # 258 sponsored a Flag Day Celebration at St. Michael in Hermitage, Pa. After both the Saturday evening and Sunday morning Divine Liturgies, parishioners were treated to "grab and go", individually wrapped, iced sugar cookies in the shapes of the United States flag and red, white, and blue stars from DiLorenzo's Bakery in Sharpsville, Pa.

GCU giveaways including USA Flag lapel pins, large blue plastic cups, sunglasses, and M&M snack bags were also available.

At the end of the Sunday morning service, Rev. Father Kevin Marks blessed the new United States and Vatican Flags which were purchased by Lodge # 258 and donated to the church.

After the Sunday Liturgy was over, parishioners and guests gathered at the Social Center flagpole for a ceremony and to see the new flags being raised. n

Photos from Sunday morning, June 27, of the parishioners singing "Happy Birthday" and Bill Dzuricsko presenting Father Kevin Marks with a gift card. A large card was signed by the people over the previous weekends.

President Bill Dzuricsko welcomed everyone and held a moment of silence for all of the deceased members of the parish and the lodge who have passed away over the last year, with a special remembrance for former lodge member, Paul Cefrick.

Photos of the Saturday evening parishioners enjoying their Birthday cake. Barb Dzuricsko (above) cuts the cake while Greta Marks (Father Kevin's mother) and Joan Walker talk to Altar Server Frank Wahal.

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parish news

st. michael in hermitage, pa.

Helping HandsDay

by William Dzuricsko St. Michael, Hermitage, Pa.

On Saturday, June 12, members of GCU Lodge #258 and volunteers from the parish gathered to improve the landscaping at the St. Michael Social Center on Highland Road in Hermitage, Pa. The group trimmed hedges, weeded flower beds, weed whacked edges, put down new

brown mulch, and worked on our "Burning Bush Island" near the flagpole.

Thank you to the GCU Home Office for providing the colorful pink t-shirts for our volunteers!

Also, thank you to Lodge #258 for providing financial support through a Helping Hands Grant.

Thank you for all of your hard work! n

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st. mary holy protection in trauger (latrobe), pa.

Home away from home

by Father Paul-Alexander Shutt, OSB St. Mary Holy Protection, Trauger, Pa.

This past academic year, a number of students from Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pa. found a little bit of a spiritual home away from home at St. Mary Holy Protection Church in Trauger, Pa. Most are from the Western Pennsylvania area — Elizabeth Hall, Helen Kish, Anthony Pouliot, and Thomas Syphan, a member of the parish — but two are from Hungary: Bazil Kaplar and Bertalan Papp!

Below are a few words from Bertalan: I am Bertalan Péter Papp. I am from Budapest, Hungary. I came to Saint Vincent through a program between the Benedictine Archabbeys of Pannonhalma and Saint Vincent, after I finished my studies at the Benedictine High School.

For most of my life I went to Roman Catholic masses, only when I became older and gained a greater appreciation for religious life, did I start going to the Byzantine Divine Liturgy.

Bazil Kaplar, Father Paul-Alexander Shutt, OSB and Bertalan Papp

As such, when one of my friends here at the college told me about a Byzantine church near here, I jumped at the opportunity. For me, Divine Liturgy was always more spiritually deep.

I always appreciate the symbolism that is behind every part of the liturgy. It is kind of hard to put it into words. But Divine Liturgy for me is simply special and I am extremely happy that I finally had the opportunity to attend regularly glorifying God. n

Front row: Thomas Syphan, Elizabeth Hall and Helen Kish. Back row: Bazil Kaplar, Father Paul-Alexander Shutt, OSB and Bertalan Papp. Not pictured: Anthony Pouliot.

ss. peter and paul in braddock, pa.

Police blessing

by Arleen Jama SS. Peter and Paul, Braddock, Pa.

Following an evening liturgy of the Feast of the Glorious Prophet Elijah (St. Elias), Father Vitalii

Randy Tomko, Alyssa Vasil, Mike Vasil, and Norbert Vasil.

Before (left) and after (right) of the Burning Bush Island.

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Stashkevych concluded the blessing of the cars by blessing a Braddock Police car, asking for the safety and protection of those who use it. n

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thoughts for our day

by Archpriest David M. Petras

the anaphora: we remember the living In the Divine Liturgy, we take part in the sacrifice of our Lord by our thanksgiving and praise.

We proclaim that the cross and resurrection has given us life, and we glorify God for his infinite gift of love.

At the same time, we are also humble enough to implore God to care for us in our needs. Prayer of intercession incorporates the needs of the local community and expresses our communion in the Body of Christ. We need this solidarity, because God knows our needs in advance, as the Liturgy of St. Basil so eloquently points out: "Remember, O Lord our God, all your people... granting those petitions which are for their salvation... because, O God, you know the name and age of all, you know each one even from his mother's womb... You know each one and his requests, each home and its needs." The petitions awaken in us an awareness of our dependency upon God for everything and for the needs of our neighbors.

After we remember the departed in our prayer, we pray for those who are living. In the Anaphora of St. John Chrysostom, the first part of our petition is for those who serve the Church in Holy Orders in general, bishops first, then presbyters, the ancient and traditional name for priests, then deacons and finally for all other lesser and non-sacramental orders.

The second part of our petition is first simply for the whole world, then for the universal Church, then for those

who serve the Church in the monastic life and finally for the civil government. For the government 1 Timothy 2:2 is quoted, “that in their tranquility we may lead a calm and quiet life in all piety and holiness.”

The petition for the government today is general, for all those holding office and those who serve the country. This would

At the same time, we are also humble enough to implore God to care for us in our needs. include all elected officials, as well as those who are appointed to service. This part of the petition has been recast to reflect modern democracies. In ancient and medieval government, authority was held by the royalty, who usually received their position by heredity. This was seen as God’s providence for the human race.

Therefore, they ruled governed in an autocratic manner and were prayed for by name. Those in service to the country were their armies and military forces who maintained their power and defended the civil nation against foreign invasion. There are still sovereigns today, but they serve in constitutional democracies and their power is more symbolic.

Nonetheless, sovereigns are still mentioned by name, but in representative governments where power is divided between

various individuals or branches of government no one is mentioned by name.

The leaders of the Church are mentioned first among the living, “O Lord, remember the entire episcopate of the true believers,” which means those bishops who keep the orthodox faith in the sense of fidelity to the one holy, catholic and apostolic church.

The intent is to pray for those who “faithfully impart the word of your truth,” a phrase taken from 2 Timothy 2:15. After the prayers for the whole world, for monastics and the government, we return to the church authorities, now mentioned in prayer by name.

This is the only place today where individual names are mentioned in the Liturgy. Originally, this prayer was for the ruling bishop of the place where the Liturgy was being celebrated. Only one name, therefore, was mentioned, so that the beginning of this section may also be translated as “in the first place.” A parish priest remembered the bishop of the church where he was celebrating.

If he was traveling away from home, he did not mention his own personal bishop, for all Liturgies are for the community gathered in that place. If a bishop was celebrating, he did not remember himself, but his higher authority, an archbishop or patriarch. In the late Middle ages or early modern period, these commemorations became pyramidal. Therefore, the highest authority is mentioned first, for Catholics the Pope of Rome and for the Orthodox, their patriarch.

Then intermediate authorities are also mentioned, patriarchs or archbishops and finally the local bishop, if one is

not in an archeparchy.

The obligation of praying for one’s proper authorities is very serious, it is a sign of our communion in the church, and priests can be suspended for not remembering the proper hierarch. At the same time, it is a prayer for the fidelity of the bishop and that he guide us in the way of truth. There is thus a fuller citation of 2 Timothy 2:15, “Preserve them for your holy churches in peace, safety, honor and health for many years as they faithfully impart the word of your truth.” The condition, of course, is not simply for the bishop but also for the people, the flock that he leads, that they be faithful to the vocation that we are called to in Christ. By this prayer, the shepherd of the flock and the people he serves are joined together in a mutual bond of love and respect for one another.

This section of the Anaphora of St. Basil is much longer than that of St. John Chrysostom. In the first millennium of the Church, it was the usual Sunday Liturgy and therefore prayed for all the many needs of the church. The commemorations do not begin with a prayer for the hierarchy as such, but for the whole Church and specifically for the church where the Liturgy is being celebrated, that it may stand as our Lord promised that the gates of hell would not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18). Therefore, we pray, “O Lord, remember your holy, catholic and apostolic Church from one end of the universe to the other; give peace to her whom you have redeemed by the precious blood of your Christ.

Make firm this holy temple until the end of time.” 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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“Slovakia:

How We Got From There to Here” LIBRARY MINISTRY SPEAKERS PLATFORM RETURNS TO ST. GREGORY IN UPPER ST. CLAIR, PA.

by David Mayernik Jr. Editor

Marcela Michálková, while at her home in Eastern Czechoslovakia, remembers the events of Sunday, Nov. 19, 1989 in her country “quite vividly.”

“I remember my dad and me sitting in my bedroom in front of our black and white TV. I remember the feeling of confusion and anxiety, both mine and his, as we were watching the evening news.

“We learned that two days earlier, on Nov, 17, 1989 an officially approved march of approximately 15,000 class students to commemorate the resistance of student demonstrators in 1939 to the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia, turned quickly into the demonstration demanding the resignation of the Communist government.”

She was witnessing the start of The Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia, which lasted until Dec. 29, 1989 and resulted in the end of 41 years of Communist rule.

“That Revolution is something that I personally experienced. It’ s a part of my personal history; part of my life.”

Marcela recounted the events during the Library Ministry Speakers Platform July 11 at St. Gregory in Upper St. Clair, Pa. Her presentation, titled “Slovakia 2021: How We Got From There to Here,” traced the complicated history of Slovakia, focusing on 1989 to 2021, along with some personal experiences.

Originally from Eastern Slovakia, Marcela earned her master’s degrees in Scandinavian Linguistics, Teaching Slovak Language and Literature, and Teaching English Language and Literature from the University of Tromsø in Norway and from P. J. Šafárik University in Slovakia.

She received a Ph.D. in Slavic and East European Languages and Literatures from the Ohio State University.

She also has 20 years direct experience in developing and teaching numerous Slovak, Czech, Russian, and American Studies courses at four American universities — The Ohio State University, University of Pittsburgh, John Carroll University, Indiana University

Father Valerian Michlik, Susie Gyurina and Marcela Michálková

Photos by David Mayernik Jr.

— and at Prešov University in Slovakia.

She has also worked as Slovakia’s Deputy Prime Minister’s National Coordinator of Professional and Language Training in Central State Administration, Chief Communications Strategist for an international humanitarian organization based in Germany, and most recently as Director of the Slovak Studies Program at the University of Pittsburgh.

She currently resides in Pittsburgh, Pa. with her husband Martin and their two teenage sons Samuel and Aleš.

“Modern Slovak history has often been described as unknown, misunderstood or misinterpreted,” she said.

“I’m not sure if you know the fact that Czechoslovakia between

1918 and the late 1930s, became one of the 10 richest countries in the world and one of the leading democracies. Unfortunately, it also became a target of Hitler’s aggressive determination to unite all Germans in Europe in one state.”

Czechoslovakia was dissolved on Jan. 1, 1993 and split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Marcela said one question the country must answer is whether Slovakia is prepared to transition from its automobile industry — which accounts for 12 percent of its annual economic output and one out of 10 jobs — to another alternative.

“But let’s be optimistic. Here’s an example of an alternative: introducing Slovak AirCar, which is a hybrid car aircraft which can

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both drive on the road and in the sky.”

Slovakian company KleinVision is manufacturing flying cars (yes, actual flying cars). It has a BMW engine and takes 2 minutes 15 seconds to transform from an ordinary car into an AirCar. The company was founded by Stefan Klein, who, according to his web site, “devoted the last 20 years converting his flying-car dream into reality. Currently he completed the flying prototype of AirCar that has been tested successfully, at Nitra airport in Oct. 2019.”

AirCar has been in development since 2017 and 12 patents protect the transformation process.

“For Slovakia, the sky is the limit,” she said. n

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Pilgrimage returns to Mount St. Macrina Sept. 5 The Sisters of St. Basil the Great announced the 87th annual Pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help will be held Sunday, Sept. 5 at Mount St. Macrina.

With the theme, “Mother of Perpetual Help, Our Gentle Protectress”, the Pilgrimage will be an in-person event and will also be streamed live.

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.

Please see the list of local motels and hotels on our website if you wish overnight accommodations. There will be no overnight accommodations on the grounds of Mt. St. Macrina this year, which includes campers.

A limited number of selfcontained RVs are permitted by appointment only. Contact Sister Carol at 724-438-7149.

Pilgrims will be asked to wear masks when entering indoor shrines, as well as buildings.

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

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

property.

Pilgrims unable to attend in person, please participate via the livestream: www.sistersofstbasil. org. n

around the archeparchy BREADED CHICKEN DINNER — 4-7 p.m. Aug. 14, 10 a.m.1 p.m. Aug. 15, St. John the Baptist Cathedral, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, Pa. Take-out only breaded chicken dinner. Price is $10 per dinner, which includes: breaded chicken, potatoes, veggie, roll and butter. Pre-orders will be guaranteed. To pre-order, call 412-4610944. In addition we will be selling quarts of haluski, quarts of soup, our kolache, and various baked goods.

CAR CRUISE — Tuesday, Aug. 17, 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 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 nonalcoholic drinks. BYOB, raffle baskets and 50/50 drawings. Contact Bev Rebovich at 412-431-1116 to reserve a spot.

ICONOGRAPHY WORKSHOP — Sept. 16-19, St. Robert Bellarmine Church Hall, 1313 5th Ave., E. McKeesport, Pa. Marylyn Barone will conduct an iconography workshop for Mary Mother of God Parish for adults at all levels of experience.

You will write an icon of the Immaculate Heart of Mary or Our Lady of Protection on a 8 x 10 gesso covered board. The class will be Thursday evening, Friday evening, all day Saturday and noon Sunday until finishing. You must be able to attend all four days to have a completed icon. The cost of $130 will cover all supplies. Using a preprepared prototype, you will learn techniques for faces, garments, 23-karat gold gilding and background. Participants from three or more of Marylyn’s previous workshops may elect to do an icon of their choice. The theology of iconography and specifically the Theotokis will also be presented. There will be the opportunity to attend services.

Snacks as well as coffee and tea will be provided on all days. A deposit of $25 is required and the class will be limited to 20 people. For more information, call Marylyn Barone at 412-678-9453 or email mwbarone@comcast.net.

CELEBRATION OF 125 YEARS — 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, SS. Peter and Paul, 431 George St., Braddock, Pa. SS. Peter and Paul will celebrate 125 Years of establishment. Archbishop William C. Skurla will celebrate Divine Liturgy at 3 p.m.

dates to remember AUG. 6 Feast of the Transfiguration of Our Lord AUG. 15 Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos AUG. 26 Opening Divine Liturgy at SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary Pittsburgh, Pa. SEPT. 5 87th annual Pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mount St. Macrina, Uniontown, Pa. SEPT. 12 Celebration of Marriage St. Elias, Munhall, Pa. SEPT. 19 50th Anniversary Celebration at St. Gregory

Upper St. Clair, Pa.

See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org

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Official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh

Byzantine Catholic Press Associates 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Tel: 412-231-4000 Fax: 412-231-1697 Email: bcw@archpitt.org Website: www.archpitt.org

next issue: SEPTEMBER 2021`

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