the official newspaper of the archeparchy of pittsburgh
diaconal journey
Inside
Deacon Donald Bolls’ ordination a solemn, joyous occasion Page 3
vol. 59 no. 17
celebration!
Annual St. Nicholas Charity Dinner brings out the best of sharing, giving Pages 5 - 6 - 7
sunday, december 21, 2014
parish news More St. Nicholas celebrations, life celebrations in the Archeparchy Pages 8 & 9
NATIVITY of our LORD
2014 I
n those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole world should be enrolled. This was the first enrollment, when Quirinius was governor of Syria. So all went to be enrolled, each to his own town. And Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. While they were there, the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. — Luke 2:1-7
Christ is Born! Glorify Him! We wish a special Christmas Greeting to you: the people, religious, and clergy of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh! We hope that your celebration of the birth of Jesus brings joy to you and your family. We rejoice and proclaim to all that Christ is Born! The Holy Family celebrated the first Christmas far from their home in Nazareth in the town of Bethlehem. Mary and Joseph had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem to fulfill the requirements of the census. Jesus came into the world at a location where they had no family and they relied on the charity of strangers to invite them into a place to stay and to give birth to the Son of God. Many people have the special gift of being able to be born and live in one place for their entire lifetime. For them the holidays are filled with memories from their family home and their surrounding community. Every house and street corner bring up memories of Christmas past and present. Traditions are continued and enriched with celebration of each season. Other families are like Mary and Joseph. God’s plan includes celebrating Christmas or living in a place where they are strangers. There is the excitement and challenge of starting over in a new city to rekindle old family traditions in new place. This happened for all of our families as they came to the United States. Each of our parishes has a few new families from other countries and states. Each of us are called to welcome new and returning families to our parish Christmas celebrations and to help them to adjust to their new lives. At the 2014 Extraordinary Synod of Bishops, our churches were described as the family of the families. The Church helps, teaches and nurtures the life of each family in the same way that parents provide for their children. The Christmas Eve and Christmas Day celebrations invite us to relive the first Christmas. As we sing the hymns and carols of Christmas, the old teach the young the story which has been passed from generation to generation. We offer special prayers for families in Ukraine, the Middle East, and here who have suffered and been forced to start over. Whether you are near your place of birth or far from home, we pray that your holidays be filled with rich blessings. We thank you for your support during the past year. We lift up the prayer that God will bless you and your families during this Christmas season and during the year of 2015. Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend William C. Skurla, D.D. Metropolitan Archbishop of Pittsburgh
Christ is Born! Glorify Him!
Christos Raždajetsja! Slavite Jeho!
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sunday, december 21, 2014
BCW Schedule for 2015
Seventeen fresh issues of the Byzantine Catholic World are scheduled for delivery to subscribers in 2015. For GUIDELINES and SUBSCRIPTION information, visit www.archpitt.org/news/bcwinfo. n
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 every third Sunday (17 issues) by: 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
The Archeparchy of Pittsburgh
Darlene Fejka Layout / Graphics Donna Obsincs Subscription/Circulation Manager
CHANCERY
Gregory S. Popivchak Business Manager
will be CLOSED for the Christmas holydays on Dec. 24-25-26 (Wed -Thu - Fri) & 31 (Wed) as well as Jan. 1 (Thu), 2015
Annual Subscription Rates US $12 Canadian $14 International $16 Periodicals Postage Paid at Pittsburgh, PA
Postmaster: send address changes to: The Byzantine Catholic World ATTN: Donna 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214
The Chancery will resume regular hours Jan. 2, 2015 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Please allow 2-3 weeks for address changes to take effect. Submissions deadline: 2nd Tuesday before publication date (12 days prior).
66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 412-231-4000
The Byzantine Catholic World is a member of the Catholic Press Association.
mission The mission of The Byzantine Catholic World is to spread
BYZANTINE CATHOLIC SEMINARY of SAINTS CYRIL AND METHODIUS COURSE SCHEDULE - SPRING 2015
11/14/14
TIME
MONDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
LT 103 – Theology of Divine Liturgy Fr. Muksuris
DT 103 – Christology Development to Chalcedon Fr. Kappes
SS 102 - Historical & Prophetic Books Dr. Collins
10:00AM
LT 103 – Theology of Divine Liturgy Fr. Muksuris
DT 103 – Christology Development to Chalcedon Fr. Kappes
SS 102 - Historical & Prophetic Books Dr. Collins
PT 201 – Homiletics 1* Deacon Don Bolls
11:00AM
LT 103 – Theology of Divine Liturgy Fr. Muksuris
DT 103 – Christology Development to Chalcedon Fr. Kappes
SS 102 - Historical & Prophetic Books Dr. Collins
PT 201 – Homiletics 1* Deacon Don Bolls
9:00AM
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
Catholics in the Archeparchy
PT 101 - Pastoral Care & Counseling 1 Fr. Raptosh
GR 102 - Biblical Greek 1 Fr. Muksuris GR 202 – Biblical Greek 2 Fr. Kappes
LC 501 - Chant 1 - Melkite Ms. Poklembo
LC 503 – Chant 3- Ruthenian Ms. Poklembo
PT 502 - Liturgical Practicum 2* Fr. Michlik
2:30PM
PT 101 - Pastoral Care & Counseling1 Fr. Raptosh
GR 102 - Biblical Greek 1 Fr. Muksuris GR 202 – Biblical Greek 2 Fr. Kappes
LC 503 – Chant 3 - Melkite Ms. Poklembo
LC-Vocal Technique 2 sessions Ms. Poklembo
PT 502 - Liturgical Practicum 2* Fr. Michlik
3:30PM
PH 102 - Sources from Antiquity 2 Fr. Raptosh
DT 202 – Vatican II Documents 2 Fr. Gallaro
LC-Vocal Technique 2 sessions Ms. Poklembo
4:30PM
PH 102 - Sources from Antiquity 2 Fr. Raptosh
DT 202 – Vatican II Documents 2 Fr. Gallaro
LC-Vocal Technique 2 sessions Ms. Poklembo
7:00PM – 8:50PM
SP 102 - Foundations of Spirituality 2 Fr Raptosh
CH 101 – History of the Byzantine Church Fr. Kappes
of Pittsburgh, throughout the Metropolitan Church in America, and around the world.
FRIDAY
1:30PM
times; and to celebrate community among Byzantine
TUESDAY
CL 100 – Intro to Canon Law Fr. Gallaro
the byzantine catholic world
*These courses are restricted to seminarians
Seminary Spring semester classes begin jan. 12 Offering the Master of Divinity (MDiv) and Master of Arts in Theology (MAT) degree programs, the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius is fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools’ Commission on Accrediting in the United States and Canada. n BS = Bible Studies CL = Canon Law CH = Church History DT = Dogmatics GR = Greek LC = Liturgical Music LT = Liturgical Theology MT = Moral Theology PH = Philosophy PT = Pastoral Practice SP = Spirituality
Byzantine Catholic Seminary 3605 Perrysville Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Phone: 412-321-8383 Fax: 412-321-9936 www.bcs.edu
sunday, december 21, 2014
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Archeparchy of Pittsburgh welcomes its newest deacon subdeacon donald bolls ordained to diaconate nov. 20 at st. john cathedral
Concelebrants and assistentia at the Ordination of Deacon Donald Bolls included (from left): Subdeacon Rafaele Ruggiero, Seminarian Thomas Moses, Seminary Rector Very Rev. Robert M. Pipta, Deacon Joseph Wargacki, Cathedral Rector and Syncellus for Deacons Very Rev. Archpriest Dennis M. Bogda, Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla, Deacon Donald, Very Rev. Archpriest Eugene Yackanich, Deacon Timothy Corbett, Monsignor Russell A. Duker, Deacon Stephen Casmus, Subdeacon Lewis Rabayda, Seminarian Bryan Scotton, server Marty Bovee, and Seminarian Oliver Black. Photos by Nick Havrilla, Sr.
Metropolitan Archbishop William officiated at the Divine Liturgy with Ordination to the Holy Diaconate as Subdeacon Donald Bolls became the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh’s newest deacon Thursday, Nov. 20 at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. Along with clergy and religious present, family, friends, and faithful witnessed the diaconal ordination of the former Presbyterian minister whose love for God, His church, and His people have led him on a journey of prayer and service for over 35 years. Following the Divine Liturgy and Ordination, a dinner was held in honor of the new deacon at the Cathedral Center. n
deacon don shares some of his life’s story and other thoughts and recollections among photos captured during his ordination . . .
May God grant to his servant the deacon Donald peace, health, and happiness for many blessed years!
“I was born and raised in Virginia. My father was a Presbyterian minister, as was my maternal grandfather, so as you might imagine, I was brought up in that tradition for which I remain immensely thankful to this day. “
“I became Byzantine Catholic after 20 years of study and prayer in part because of a lifetime love of the great liturgical traditions of the Church. I began by studying the Orthodox tradition, took a number of years “off” when the church I was serving burned to the ground and we had to rebuild, but eventually with the help and encouragement of many people, retired from Presbyterian ministry and am now a Deacon in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh.”
“I received a BS in Mathematics from Virginia Tech in 1975, and a D.Min. from Union Theological Seminary in Virginia in 1979. After I became interested in the Eastern Church, I earned a Masters in Eastern Studies through the Antiochian House of Studies in 2003.”
My wife Barbara and I were married in 1986; we have a son who lives in Cleveland, Ohio. An added bonus of coming into the Byzantine Catholic Church is all of the wonderful ethnic foods. Barbara and I are big fans of potato/onion pirohy and nutrolls. We have noted that Eastern rite Christians find occasions to celebrate with food even more than the Presbyterians, which we didn’t think was possible!
“I was unsure of my initial call to ministry as I was readying to graduate college, decided to enter seminary to see where it would lead, and never really have had any second thoughts. I love it and have felt the Holy Spirit guiding me in it to this day, though there were many times when the exact path was not entirely clear.”
“The journey has been long for a number of reasons, but one is that I always believed God wanted me to do ordained rather than lay ministry - and that’s much harder to work out canonically, especially being married, and having been a Presbyterian pastor for 35 years. My wife and son have been very supportive of my move and without their understanding it would have been impossible.”
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sunday, december 21, 2014
MCI on the move in 2015 full slate of classes, workshops offered Once each month, the Metropolitan Cantor Institute (MCI) holds a Saturday class in Pittsburgh on church singing and chant leadership. The classes run from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and cover liturgy, proper use of the voice, cantorial leadership skills, and chant repertoire. All classes are held at SS. Cyril and Methodius Byzantine Catholic Seminary, 3605 Perrysville Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15214. Following are the class dates and topics for 2015: • Jan. 10 – Workshop on Paraliturgical Hymns and Spiritual Songs • Feb. 7 – Reader Services and Typica • Mar. 14 – Feasts of the Mother of God • Apr. 11 – Vocal workshop for cantors • May 9 – Baptism, Wedding, Anointing • June 13 – Funeral Services, part 1 • July 11 – Funeral Services, part 2 • Aug. 8 – The Divine Liturgy, part 1 • Sept. 12 – The Divine Liturgy, part 2 • Oct.17 – Hierarchical Services • Nov. 14 – Liturgy, Chant, and Prayer (a one-day cantors’ retreat) • Dec. 12 – Christmas and Theophany All classes will include material for both novice and experienced cantors. Students may register for the entire year for $120 (includes lunch, materials, and 12 months of the MCI Online program see below). Students also may register on a pay-per-class basis ($20 per class, includes lunch and materials), but must do so at least one week (7 days) before the class date. A registration brochure can be found at www.metropolitancantorinstitute.org, or contact MCI Director Jeff Mierzejewski at 412-735-1676. n
mci distance learning to start in january To meet the needs of cantors and prospective cantors far from the Pittsburgh area – and to provide additional resources to local cantors as well – the Metropolitan Cantor Institute has created a distance learning program, MCI Online. Using a computer connected to the Internet, students will be able to view lessons on their own schedule, take quizzes to test their knowledge, and gain access to other instructional materials (including copyrighted materials which cannot be posted on the MCI website). How do I get started? • Students who register for the full year of MCI classes are automatically enrolled in MCI Online. • Cantors outside the Pittsburgh area who wish to enroll in MCI Online only can do so for $60 per year. This registration fee allows access to all online cantor classes AND a certain amount of individualized instruction/coaching/assistance. See the MCI website (www.metropolitancantorinstitute.org) for more information. Note: MCI Online requires a computer with access to the Internet, a Web browser, and speakers or headphones. Older computers may not support all MCI Online features. n
mci to hold hymn workshop jan 10
The first Metropolitan Cantor Institute class for 2015 will be a workshop on paraliturgical hymns and spiritual songs such as Marian hymns and Christmas kol’ady (carols). In addition to learning and singing these hymns, and discovering how to use them effectively in church, cantors are invited to bring their own hymns for potential inclusion in a forthcoming hymnal. The 6-hour workshop will be held on January 10 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary in Pittsburgh. For those enrolled in the full 12-class Metropolitan Cantor Institute program for 2015, this class is included; single-class fee is $20. To register, contact MCI Director Jeff Mierzejewski at (412) 735-1676 or mci@archpitt.org. n
Run Forth to Meet Christ
grant your faithful, we pray, almighty god, the resolve to run forth to meet your christ. by A.B. Hill
Christmas is coming; the race is on – shopping, b a k i n g , cleaning, decorating, socializing. Most of us run around a lot this time of year; but toward whom are we running – the Christ child or the cashier in the checkout line? We meet Christ in our liturgy – his Real Presence is always there, but when we are not too distracted by our own worries, we can also see Him in the least of our brothers and sisters. Jesus tells us where to find him in Matthew 25: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me … Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” The Church teaches us to recognize and fulfill the obligations of justice and charity in society. We have a responsibility toward building, organizing and creating a functioning society through political, economic and administrative obligations. The Church (meaning all of us) has a secular mission to work toward the common good. Lay people are called to help build the kingdom of God in the world around us. Common good is defined as the social conditions that allow for the authentic development of the whole person. It is a human right that grows out of the dignity that God assigns to every person. When we slow down long enough to look for Jesus in the least of our brothers and sisters, we see how societal conditions may be contributing to poverty, illness, oppression, or ignorance. Members of society contribute to the common good through their generous use of the spiritual, social, or material
BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY Sundays 9:00 a.m. • WEDO Radio • 810 AM Broadcast live from Holy Ghost Church, McKees Rocks
Also view liturgical services (various times) at: www.holyghost-byzantinecatholic.org www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com www.sjcbcc.com
the byzantine catholic world
means they possess for the good of others and to create conditions that allow people to more easily live a humane existence. Catholic charities agencies meet urgent temporal needs of many people. Charitable giving is necessary and important; but often the relief is only temporary and does not address the underlying conditions that caused the problem. The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference advocates for public policies that improve the conditions for people to thrive. Its mission is to formulate positions on issues, officially represent the Church before state government, and to foster a public understanding of the Church’s teaching and concern about morality, health, welfare, human rights, education, and yes, the common good. The PCC is an authoritative resource for the Catholics and a vehicle for change. Our website, www.pacatholic.org, is a place for citizens to seek the truth about perplexing societal questions and find links to the Catholic Advocacy Network’s tools for urging our elected officials to vote in support of the common good. The political challenges that face our nation, our state, and our cities and towns demand urgent moral choices on behalf of all citizens. Pray, inform your conscience, speak up for the common good, and be generous with your spiritual, social, or material means. As we run forth to meet our Christ, let’s look for Jesus around us and work toward improving our society for all of God’s children to achieve the happy and healthy existence they deserve. n Hill is Communications Director of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference – the public affairs agency of Pennsylvania’s Catholic bishops and the Catholic dioceses of Pennsylvania. Stay up-todate with Catholic news and issues at www.pacatholic.org, www.facebook.com/pacatholic, and www.twitter.com/pacatholic.
sunday, december 21, 2014
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2014 St. Nicholas event receives ‘thumbs way-up’ from start to finish, annual celebration a truly memorable day by Darlene Fejka
MUNHALL, PA — Uncharacteristically pleasant weather was just the proverbial icing on the cake for the fine day of worship, fellowship and merriment enjoyed by all who attended the 2014 St. Nicholas Charity Dinner at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist Sunday, Dec. 7. The 58th annual event began at 3 p.m. with a Moleben to St. Nicholas at the Cathedral, presided over by Archbishop William with celebrant Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich and Deacon Timothy Corbett. Seminarians currently enrolled both served and led responses under the direction of Coreen Poklembo. Homilist was Very Rev. Robert Pipta, Seminary Rector. (see sidebar below) Following the service, the annual trek to the adjacent Cathedral Center was made, where attendees spent the cocktail hour renewing acquaintances over beverages, dropping off their gifts for the Salvation Army’s “Treasures for Children” Christmas toy drive, and perusing the wall of artistic
entries to the children’s drawing and coloring contest. Master of Ceremonies Chris Singel greeted the crowd of 300plus with lighthearted anecdotes before he introduced speakers Father Robert Pipta, Mr. George Juba, President/CEO of the Greek Catholic Union, Mr. Juba made the traditional presentation of a check to Archbishop William on behalf of the GCU in the amount of $100,000. “With this year’s presentation,” he declared, “the GCU’s Seminary contributions now total two million eight hundred thirty thousand dollars.” Archbishop William offered sincere thanks on behalf of the Seminary, and reminded the audience that donations are only part of what is needed, saying “now it’s on your shoulders to continue ... to encourage children to go into the priesthood and religious life.” The 2014 St. Nicholas Event was themed “Celebrating Families,” and kept true to that theme in the person of main speaker Deacon Dennis Prestash, whose presentation hit
Serrans dedicate photo icon faculty, staff, students depicted A Photo Icon of Our Community was dedicated Nov. 1 at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pa. Ceremonies began in the Seminary Chapel as Archbishop William celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Immediately following, participants proceeded to the Seminary foyer for the unveiling and dedication. The photo icon is a framed collage of photographs of
seminarians, seminary faculty and staff members. The project was sponsored by the Byzantine Catholic Serra Club. Frank Chiprich, club president and Patty Bovee, vice president officially represented the Club at the dedication. To conclude the day of ceremony, a catered luncheon was served in the Seminary dining room following the dedication. n
Pictured with Archbishop William at the “photo icon” dedication Nov. 1 are Byzantine Serra Club members (from left): Irene Dunny, Byzantine Serra Club President Frank Chiprich, Pat Kupec, Joseph Senko, Diane Pochron, Pat Bovee, Archbishop William, Bill Kress, Lori Downey, Gerry Rhoads, Carl Fuhrman, Dorothy Mayernik, John Tomko, Stella Druga, Sam Barone and Rich Trankocy.
a home-run with his timely topic “Raising a Christian Family in the 21st Century.” Aided by a well-received slideshow illustrating his speaking points, Deacon Dennis flowed through his portion of the program, keeping his audience engaged, informed and entertained as he offered “Seven Challenges to Become Great Family Leaders.” Coreen Poklembo then led the Seminarians in several vocal selections, one of which was the beloved Hymn to Saint Nicholas, as the audience joined in singing to usher in the arrival of the event’s special guest, personified by Mr. Marty Bovee of St. John Cathedral. St. Nicholas greeted all of the children in attendance and presented them with a token gift. Emcee Singel announced the winners of the Children’s Coloring Contest (see page 10) and called upon Archbishop
William to return to the podium for closing remarks. The invocation and blessing then was offered by Father Dennis Bogda; dinner was served along with a generous musical menu by the Continental Dukes Orchestra, who strolled among the tables playing Christmas songs and other favorite tunes by request. The 2015 St. Nicholas Celebration will take place on the actual feast day of St. Nicholas - Sunday, Dec. 6. Archbishop William and the entire event committee urge everyone to not only “Save the Date” but to also make a date to spend Dec. 6, 2015 at the 59th Annual St. Nicholas Charity Dinner. n Event photos on pages 6 & 7 Deacon Dennis’ presentation will be highlighted in the Jan. 18, 2015 BCW
celebrating the riches of st. nicholas: excerpts from father robert’s homily …We are celebrating Saint Nicholas – a truly good shepherd. How can we find in him a preserver of the family? The riches into which Nicholas was born did not blind him from God nor the blessedness of the poor. He had no love of money, only of those who were most in need of it. There are many accounts of the life of our Holy Father Nicholas. One account many people have heard is of the father of a destitute Christian family whose poverty forced him to allow the exploitation of his daughters for profit. When Nicholas heard of this, he secretly dropped some of his riches into the house. When the father discovered that Nicholas was the benefactor, in compliance with the saint’s wishes, he promised not to reveal Nicholas’ name. This was standard operating procedure when it came to Saint Nicholas’ generosity. He lived according to the teaching of the Lord: “Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them” (Matthew 6:1). So often did our heavenly patron come to the assistance of the sick and needy children, widows, and families through generous acts of giving. He was regarded as a father of orphans, widows, and the poor. He saw Christ in the least of his brothers and sisters and, as we sing the kontakion of his feast, thus fulfilled the gospel of Christ . . . The life of our Holy Father Nicholas has shown him as a friend, a bishop, and a shepherd – a Defender of the Faith; a Defender of the vulnerable; a Preserver of Innocence; a Preserver of the Family . . . Assisting those in poverty has a significant place in the preservation of family. Saint Nicholas’ example inspires us to look with compassion on those struggling financially, and to give assistance in some way. … The crisis of faith has led to a crisis in marriage and the family. … Our holy father and bishop Nicholas is eager to assist – he does not retreat from crisis. He inspires the same resolve in us, and intercedes on our behalf. Remembering how he brought a storm-tossed ship safely to its destination, we hear his emphatic command: You must not make a shipwreck of your faith! n
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sunday, december 21, 2014
2014 St. Nicholas CELEBRATION
photos by N i c k H a v r i l l a , S r. Darlene Fejka/BCW
the byzantine catholic world
sunday, december 21, 2014
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St. Nicholas CELEBRATION 2014
photos by N i c k H a v r i l l a , S r. Darlene Fejka/BCW
the byzantine catholic world
parish news page 8
sunday, december 21, 2014
Celebrating St. Nicholas, Preparing for Nativity
meaningful work for st. george students by Joanne Hersh, ECF Coordinator
The Eastern Christian Formation (ECF) students of St. George Byzantine Catholic Church in Aliquippa, Pa. have been preparing for the Nativity through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. The primary grades made Nativity Fast packets to use at home with daily prayers and family activities. The entire ECF program sponsored an almsgiving collection of food and monetary donations throughout the Nativity Fast. From the donations, they will make care packages for the shut-ins and elderly of the parish and also donate to the local St. Vincent De Paul Society food bank. On Sunday, Dec. 7 the children followed St. Nicholas’ example of giving by preparing a gift to the parish. They began the day honoring St. Nicholas by singing “O Kto, Kto” as the opening hymn for the Divine Liturgy. In the social center afterward, the children performed a rendition of the St.
Nicholas hymn on hand bells, conducted by ECF student Alex Hersh, and then led a sing-along of the St. Nicholas hymn in English and Slavonic in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there. St. Nicholas did arrive bearing gifts of oranges, candy canes, and also cookies which the children made the day before especially for the occasion. n photos: Louisa Hersh & Danielle Liller
Jackson Liller makes cookies for the social.
St. George Church ECF students sing “O Kto Kto Nikolaja L’ubit . .” front row: Fiona Liller, Zoe Brazil, Reaghan Cody, Elainie Ferrand, Daniel Foister, Jackson Liller. back row: Alex Hersh, Nathaniel Hersh, Brady Foister.
Alex Hersh conducts the handbell choir.
Youngstown Deanery ECF welcomes special guest
Cathedral art project honors St. Nicholas
St. Nicholas paid a surprise visit to the Eastern Christian Formation students in the Youngstown, Ohio Deanery on Tuesday, Dec. 2. Besides relating the importance of following and obeying Jesus, St. Nicholas passed out treats as a reward to the students for caring weekly to learn more about our Lord. Both catechists and students sang hymns to honor the good and holy saint. Altar server: Nicholas Patoray; Sister Bernarda & Cantor Sylvia Shirilla; St. Nicholas: Ken Stanislaw n
ECF students of St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. constructed 3-D cutouts of St. Nicholas just in time to celebrate the photos by Nick Havrilla, Sr. saint’s Dec. 6 feast day. n
obey jesus, be good, for goodness sake!
parents, teachers, students craft together
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sunday, december 21, 2014
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Journey to joy of Nativity
upper st. clair parish wraps up season of preparation, anticipation
Welcoming new life
knoxville community joyously celebrates
by Father Valerian Michlik, pastor
called to feed the hungry . . .
As part of their journey through the Nativity Fast, the Bethany Ministry of St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church in Upper St. Clair, Pa. sponsored a food drive to help stock the food pantry of South Hills Interfaith Ministries, located in Bethel Park, Pa. The pantry serves over 500 families every month. The donations of nutritious foods allow the faithful uphold and to put into action the Work of Mercy, “To feed the hungry.” Sincere thanks are offered to all involved for being part of this important outreach ministry. n photo: Toni Wolfe
let them eat (anniversary) cake . . .
Holy Resurrection parish of Knoxville, Tenn. rejoiced as Emilia Marie Fridrick received the Holy Mysteries of Christian Initiation Baptism, Chrismation, Eucharist – on Nov. 30. Parish Administrator Father Thomas O’Connell celebrated the ceremonial welcome into the arms of the Byzantine Catholic Church with Emilia’s parents, Rick and Amber Fridrick. The baptistry used for the occasion (pictured below) was crafted by baby Emilia’s father, who created the vessel to honor the memory of her sister and the couple’s first child, Julianna, who fell askeep in the Lord in infancy. n
‘C’ is for cookie . . .
On Saturday morning, Dec. 6 the social hall at St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church in Upper St. Clair, Pa. was ready to open for this year’s “Taste of Heaven Cookie Sale.” As the doors swung wide, many patrons rushed in to enjoy the pleasure of strolling through cookie-filled tables and choosing from over 80 different varieties of delicious cookies prepared by St. Gregory’s hard-working parishioners. The smiles on shoppers’ faces was the best reward as they delighted in selecting their own special Christmas treats. The parish family wishes to thank all who baked and purchased, making this event a sweet success. n photo: Jennifer Kehm
WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES 2015 PHILADELPHIA http://www.worldmeeting2015.org/
The weekend of Nov. 22-23 indeed was very special as St. Gregory’s Church gathered to honor couples who celebrated a special wedding anniversary in 2014. This year, 10 couples received a fitting blessing at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, celebrated by parish pastor Father Valerian Michlik. To remember this day, each couple received a commemorative plate on which is depicted an icon that recounts Christ’s first miracle at the wedding in Cana of Galilee. Following the Divine Liturgy, the celebration continued with refreshments in the church social hall. May the Lord’s blessings be upon our wedding anniversary couples as they journey through a new year together in faith and love! n photo: Marjan M. Michlik
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sunday, december 21, 2014
Corner
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A KING, a great leader by Sandy Simko
The book of ISAIAH is found in the Old Testament of the Bible and is known as one of the Books of Prophets. Isaiah was the son of a man named Amoz and lived in Jerusalem. God chose Isaiah to be a prophet. A prophet was an ordinary person - man or woman - who shared God’s words with the people. During Isaiah’s 40 years of prophesying, he experienced immoral and political problems. His major messages were: God is interested in the salvation of His people; world peace; and the coming of the Messiah, Jesus - the man who would save us from sin. Isaiah prophesied hundreds of years before Jesus was born that God would send a special king- a great leader who would be wise, fair and a caretaker of the poor people. “A child is born to us! He will be our ruler and be called Wonderful, a Counselor, a Mighty God, Eternal Father, and a Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9) Of all the prophetic books of the Old Testament, the book of ISAIAH is most often quoted in the New Testament of the Bible. Also, ISAIAH contains more prophecies about Jesus than any other Old Testament book of prophecy. Isaiah is known as the messianic prophet
QUESTION:
DID THE PROPHECIES OF ISAIAH COME TRUE? Included in Isaiah’s many prophecies are: • The virgin birth of JesusBeing great with child, Mary and husband Joseph traveled about 70 miles from Nazareth to the small town of Bethlehem to register for taxation as required by the Roman government. Mary rode on the back of a
donkey that was the common form of transportation at that time. Because of crowded inns, a comfortable sleeping space was not available. But in a small cave-like space surrounded by an oxen and a donkey, Mary delivered her first-born child a son to be named Jesus. Mary wrapped the babe in cloths as was customary and lovingly laid him in the soft hay manger with Joseph who acted as Jesus’ earthly father at her side. A HUMAN EARTHLY FAMILY WAS CREATED - A HOLY FAMILY. This prophecy is the celebration of the beginning of the life of Jesus. • The personality of Jesus would be revealed - Jesus was a gentle, lovingly and compassionate man who welcomed the town people as well as the children. Jesus lived the life of love and peace. His message was love is the greatest commandment. • His ministry would include healing people of sickness and disease - Jesus performed many healing miracles. The people searched out his presence for his healing miracles such as curing skin diseases, blindness and paralyzing diseases. • The people would turn against Jesus - The Pharisees were generally hostile toward the ministry of Jesus. They condemned him on many occasions. The priests and Council worked at finding evidence against Jesus so they could put him to death. • Jesus would suffer and die willingly to give the people forgiveness and peace with God - While on the cross Jesus suffered great bodily pain. Some of the people spat and shouted insults at Jesus. It was early morning when he was crucified. Remember all of these prophecies came to Isaiah from God to be shared with the people. n
Do you know the legend of the POINSETTIA the Christmas flower? The poinsettia plant came from the country of Mexico when Dr. Joel Roberts Poinsett, who was captivated with the shape and beauty of this wild flower, brought it to the States. The actual flower is only the tiny yellow center section. The red-colored “petals” are actually the leaves. Dr. Poinsett called the plant “painted leaves.” Tomie de Paola, the well-known author and award winning illustrator of over 200 children’s books, chose to share a story of this colorful plant with his Christmas story, THE LEGEND OF THE POINSETTIA. High up in the mountains in a small Mexican village lived a family with a Mama, Papa and three children named Paco, Lupe and Lucida. Their life was simple but their faith was strong. Lucida’s Mama was asked to weave a blanket to be used as the cover the figure of the baby Jesus as the people paraded and carried the babe to the manger in church on Christmas Eve. A problem arose with the weaving of the blanket. Lucida is totally saddened and disappointed that there would not be a gift for the baby Jesus. Lucida finds and lovingly presents a gift to Baby Jesus. Read the story THE LEGEND OF THE POINSETTIA to discover the connection between Lucida’s gift and the poinsettia plant.
‘O Kto Kto’ are the WINNERS? “O Kto, Kto” means “Oh, Who, Who” - and it’s now known WHO WHO have won the SAINT NICHOLAS COLORING AND DRAWING CONTEST, which was held at the recent St. Nicholas Celebration at the Byzantine Catholic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist on December 7. CONGRATULATIONS to the winning art, which were chosen by Archbishop William and the St. Nicholas Committee from over 60 entries: Division 1 – pre-K & K Carmella Rippole grade K Holy Ghost Church McKees Rocks, PA Division 2c – Grades 1-2-3 Kyra Delahanty grade 2 St. Gregory Church Upper St. Clair, PA (coloring) Division 2d – Grades 1-2-3 Nicholas Rippole grade 2 Holy Ghost Church McKees Rocks, PA (drawing) Division 3 – Grades 4-5-6-7 Novena Ferency grade 4 St. Gregory Church Upper St. Clair, PA Division 4 – Grades 8-9-10-11-12 Rachel Kiss grade 8 St. Gregory Church Upper St. Clair, PA
ALL drawings will be featured in the next issue of The BCW!
the byzantine catholic world
sunday, december 21, 2014
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thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras
A GREAT LIGHT HAS ARISEN The feasts of Christmas (the birth of Jesus on Dec. 25) and Theophany (the baptism of Jesus on Jan. 6) are both closely connected with Pascha (the feast of our Lord’s death and resurrection). Many of the Church fathers were of the opinion that March 25, the date chosen for the feast of the Annunciation, was also the same day on which our Lord died on the Cross. It was also significant in that it was the approximate time of Spring, and by tradition was the date of the creation of the world. This date becomes even more significant when we take into account the fact that in many areas of the East, 14 Nisan corresponded to April 6 (January 6 is nine months later) on the Roman calendar. It would seem, therefore, that it is possible that the date of Christmas was calculated from the date of Pascha, for Jesus was born nine months after his conception. The early work De Solstiss tells us, “Therefore, our Lord was conceived on the eighth of the kalends of April in the month of March, which is the day of the passion of the Lord and of his conception. For on the day that he was conceived on the same he suffered.” From this, we can see why Christmas would have been considered a Paschal feast, indeed, the “Winter Pascha,” a term coined by Father Alexander Schmemann. It has been one scholarly opinion that Christmas was invented by the Christian community in Rome to counter the “Feast of the
Unconquerable Sun,” which was established by the Emperor Marcus Aurelius in 274 A.D., as an attempt to establish an imperial monotheistic cult of the sun. It was also the occasion for an outbreak of persecution against the Christians, who worshiped the one God. Indeed, the earliest
“The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light . . .” — Matthew 4:16 evidence for the celebration of Christmas at Rome dates to the year 336. However, with new evidence, we might say that the situation might have been reversed. It was not the Christians that reacted to the feast of the Unconquerable Sun, but Marcus Aurelius who reacted to Christmas! If we look at the Pre-festive texts of Christmas, we see a strong connection to Pascha, when Jesus humbled himself to death on the Cross, which then became the “Tree of Life” re-opening the way to Paradise through resurrection. Let us examine first the Troparion: “Bethlehem, make ready, Eden has been opened for all” Bethlehem is the place of Jesus’ birth, it opens Eden which had been closed by Adam’s sin, and the curse of death. Christmas takes us back to the Genesis story and overthrows the curse. “Ephrathah, prepare yourself, for the Tree of Life has blossomed from the Virgin
in the cave.” Ephrathah was an alternate name for Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). The comparison continues, Bethlehem is now Paradise, and the Tree of Life is the body of Jesus now born there. “Her womb is a spiritual paradise in which divinity was planted.” Jesus is God, he is the Tree of Life. “If we partake of it, we shall live and not die like Adam.” We now eat of the Tree of Life in Holy Communion, partaking in the Body of Christ. This idea corresponds to the Kontakion of the Third Sunday of the Great Fast, where the Tree of the Cross replaces the tree of life and Eden and Hades are re-opened. Death is destroyed, and “Christ is born to raise up the likeness that had fallen.” This theme is continued in the liturgical texts of Christmas, for example, the first sticheron at Psalm 140 at Christmas vespers, “let us proclaim the present mystery by which the partition has been broken and the flaming sword withheld. Now the Cherubim shall let us all come to the Tree of Life . . . ” The parallel Troparion for the Prefeast of Theophany also refers back to the Genesis story, but this time to the nakedness of Adam and Eve before their fall. Jesus enters naked into the Jordan, restoring our life in Paradise. Of great interest is the appearance of light at each of these events. The light is a sign of the presence of God. Death is the place of darkness, which is conquered by the light. We see this is the descent into Hades at the paschal death and resurrection of Christ, “And at the hour of midnight there rose upon the darkness there something like the light of the sun” (The apocryphal Gospel
of Nicodemus XVIII, 1). At the Transfiguration, the face of Jesus shone like the sun. This idea is celebrated in the Liturgy: “When you descended to death, O Immortal Life, you destroyed Hades by the brilliance of your divinity.” The great light at Christmas is commemorated in the third sticheron at Vespers of the Feast of Christmas. ” Your coming, O Christ, has shed a great light upon us.” The conclusion of the entire combined feast of Christmas-Theophany focuses then on light. The Gospel of the Sunday after Theophany is Matthew 4:12-17, “The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death. Light has arisen” (Matthew 4:16). The theme of light is explicitly taken up again at Pascha: “Today all things are filled with light: earth and heaven and the world beneath. Then let all creation celebrate the resurrection of Christ” (Paschal Canon, Ode 3, Troparion 1). The second coming is also done in light, “For just as lightning comes from the east and is seen as far as the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be” (Matthew 24:27). Christmas and Theophany come during the shortest days of the year, but they are feast of the light of Christ. At Christmas, therefore, we sing, “Your birth, O Christ our God, has shed upon the world the light of knowledge” (Troparion), and at Theophany we sing, “At your baptism in the Jordan, O Lord, worship of the Trinity was revealed ... O Christ God, you appeared and enlightened the world” (Troparion). And both of these feasts point to the future light of the Resurrection. n
The Year of Consecrated Life is here! “I want to say one word to you and this word is joy. Wherever consecrated people are, there is always joy!” — Pope FRANCIS From Nov. 30, 2014, until Feb. 2, 2016, the Catholic Church is called to celebrate the Year of Consecrated Life (YCL) as instituted by Pope Francis. This worldwide event aims to remember and honor men and women who have consecrated their lives to God, and to look with hope upon the future of consecrated life in our Church. For more information and resources, visit www.usccb.org and www.serraus.org the byzantine catholic world
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sunday, december 21, 2014
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist Schedule of Services - Christmas 2014 Very Reverend Archpriest Dennis M. Bogda, Rector
Wednesday, December 24 - Vigil, Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord - Christmas Eve 10:00 a.m. 7:45 p.m. 8:00 p.m.
Christmas Office of Readings (Royal Hours) Singing of Christmas Hymns and Carols Vespers with Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great
Thursday, December 25 - Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord - Christmas Day 10:00 a.m.
Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom
BYZANTINE D I V I N E LITURGY view liturgical services (various times) streamed LIVE online at:
St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa. www. stjohnsbyzantinecathedral. com
Friday, December 26 - Commemorating the Mother of God and Joseph 9:00 a.m. 7:00 p.m.
Holy Ghost Church McKees Rocks, Pa. www.holyghostbyzantinecatholic.org
Divine Liturgy Divine Liturgy
Saturday, December 27 - Feast of the Holy Protomartyr Stephen 9:00 a.m.
Divine Liturgy
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist | 210 Greentree Road | Munhall, PA 15120 | 412-461-0944 View services LIVE on the web at www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com
St. John Chrysostom Church - Pittsburgh, Pa. www.sjcbcc.com
Your Birth, O Christ our God * Has shed upon the world the Light of Knowledge * for through it, those who worshiped the stars * have learned from a star to worship you, the Sun of Justice * and to know you, the Dawn from on High * Glory to you, O Lord! — Troparion of the Nativity
Christos Raždajetsja! Slavite Jeho! Christ is Born! Glorify Him! Krisztus megszületett! Dicsöítsük Öt! Official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh
Byzantine Catholic Press Associates 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Tel: 412.231.4000 Fax: 412.231.1697 E-mail: bcw@archpitt.org Web site: www.archpitt.org
next issue date:
dates to remember december 24 & 25 Vigil of the Nativity & Feast of the Nativity of our Lord CHANCERY CLOSED december 26 Commemoration of the Theotokos and Holy Joseph CHANCERY CLOSED december 27 Feast of the Holy Protomartyr Stephen december 31 New Year’s Eve CHANCERY CLOSED
january 18
january 1 Circumcision of our Lord and Feast of St. Basil the Great CHANCERY CLOSED
submissions deadline:
january 6 Feast of Theophany CHANCERY CLOSED
january 6
See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org
the byzantine catholic world