the official newspaper of the archeparchy of pittsburgh
sky’s the limit
the next chapter
Inside
vol. 60 no. 5
East meets West within the walls of St. John the Baptist Church on Pittsburgh’s South Side Page 7
Sisters of St. Basil the Great ask for prayer as they begin their Chapter meetings Page 3
Christ is Risen!
sunday, april 12, 2015
no greater love
Deacon Dennis Prestash reflects on the life and passing of his beloved wife Page 11
Pope Francis names Father George D. Gallaro Bishop of Piana in Palermo will serve eparchy of piana degli albanesi in italy
Nick Havrilla, Sr.
Archbishop William blesses paschal baskets, concluding the celebration of Holy Week services at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. See page 5 for addiitonal photos.
Serrans to honor cantors fitting recognition due for service The mission of the Byzantine Catholic Serra Club is “to foster, affirm, promote and support, by prayer and deed, vocations to the priestly and diaconal ministries and to the consecrated life, in the Byzantine Catholic Church.” Traditionally in the Byzantine Catholic Church, the unique role of the cantor always has been held in high esteem as a special vocation. Thus, the Serrans duly plan to honor cantors of the Archeparchy having 20 or more years of full-time, dedicated service (active or retired) with a
recognition dinner May 17. Many of these senior cantors have served for 35 years or more. Assisted in their efforts by Metropolitan Cantor Institute (MCI) Director Jeff Mierzejewski, the Serra Club is pleased to sponsor this event. The MCI Director’s endeavor provided an updated and much-needed list of over 180 active or retired cantors of churches within the Archeparchy. “I sincerely appreciated his effort,” says Serra Club president Frank Chiprich. The dinner will be held at St. Elias Church Social Hall in Munhall, Pa. n
Apostolic Nuncio to the U.S. Carlo Maria Viganò announced at the Vatican 31 March 2015 that Holy Father Pope Francis has appointed Very Reverend George D. Gallaro, JCOL, JCOD, STL, bishop of the Byzantine (Italo-Albanese) Eparchy of Piana degli Albanesi in Palermo, Italy. Bishop-designate George, 67, is a priest of the Melkite Eparchy of Newton, Mass. who has served in the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh for the past ten years, during which time he fulfilled the positions of Syncellus for Canonical Services, Judicial Vicar, member of the Presbyteral Council and of the Intereparchial Canonical Commission, and Personal Formation Advisor and member of the faculty of SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary. He also served as administrator of St. Andrew Byzantine Catholic Church, Gibsonia, Pa. Additionally, the bishopdesignate is a consultor for the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, a member and past president of the Society for the Law of the Eastern Churches and member of the Canon Law Society of America. A prolific writer, Father Gallaro has authored several books and has published numerous articles dealing largely with issues from the perspective of Eastern Catholics, including ecumenism, marriage and Canon Law, many of which have appeared in The Byzantine Catholic World. He speaks English,
Bishop-designate George D. Gallaro
Italian, French, Spanish, Latin, Greek, and some Albanian, Portuguese, and Arabic. In his own Eparchy of Newton, Father Gallaro served as Chancellor and Eparchial Consultor, Judicial Vicar, Rector of St. Gregory Melkite Seminary, Director of the Diaconate Program, and Coordinator of Continuing Education for Clergy. Among other past duties, he also was an Instructor of Catechetics and Defender of the Bond in the Marriage Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, a Lecturer of Canon Law at Boston Theological Institute, and pastor of several Melkite and Ukrainian parishes. Giorgio Demetrio Gallaro was born January 16, 1948 in Pozzallo, Sicily in Italy. After graduation from the Diocesan Seminary of Noto, Italy with the degree of Bachelor of Philosophy (PhB 1968), his theological studies were completed at St. John Major Seminary, Camarillo, Calif. He was ordained a deacon in 1971, followed by Gallaro continued on page 3
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SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2015
official appointments
by metropolitan archbishop william
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 Darlene Fejka Layout / Graphics Donna Obsincs Subscription/Circulation Manager Gregory S. Popivchak Business Manager 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 Please allow 2-3 weeks for address changes to take effect. Submissions deadline: 2nd Tuesday before publication date (12 days prior).
The Byzantine Catholic World is a member of the Catholic Press Association.
mission The mission of The Byzantine
Catholic World is to spread the Gospel message in the rich tradition of the Byzantine Catholic Church; to encourage faithful to reflect the image of Christ in everyday activities of life; to offer spiritual formation through changing times; and to celebrate community among Byzantine Catholics in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, throughout the Metropolitan Church in America, and around the world.
Effective March 18, 2015: • Father Michael J. Huszti Huszti incardinated into the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh from the Eparchy of Parma. Effective March 31, 2015: • Very Rev. George D. Gallaro relieved as Syncellus for Canonical Services; relieved as Judicial Vicar; and relieved as Member of the Presbyteral Council and Intereparchial Canonical Commission. Also relieved as Director of Human Formation and relieved as faculty member of SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary of Pittsburgh, Pa. • Father Michael J. Huszti relieved as Pro-Synodal Judge, and appointed Judicial Vicar for the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh. • Father Valerian M. Michlik appointed Assistant Judicial Vicar for the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh. • Very Rev. Robert M. Pipta appointed Temporary Director of Human Formation of SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary. • Geoffrey Mackey appointed to the faculty of SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary for the remainder of this academic year. • Sister Valeria Evanyo, OSBM retired as receptionist at the Chancery.
CHM appeal churches urged to contribute
WA S H I N G T O N — T h e 2015 annual Catholic Home Missions Appeal will be taken up in many dioceses the weekend of April 25-26. This appeal helps to sustain nearly 45 percent of all dioceses and eparchies in rural, struggling areas in the country and in a number of U.S. territories in the Caribbean and Pacific. Catholic Home Missions (CHM) Strengthening the Church at Home helps to support evangelization, catechesis, seminarian education, lay ministry training, Hispanic ministry, and other pastoral programs for dioceses in need. The Appeal is a significant source of support to bolster domestic Catholic pastoral programs. “It can be surprising to hear about the great need of many of our dioceses here in the United States. For those who have never experienced life in a mission diocese it can be hard to imagine not having access to a priest or basic materials to teach the faith,” said Bishop Peter F. Christensen of Boise, Idaho, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Subcommittee on Catholic Home Missions. “This collection supports our neighbors here at home and provides for their spiritual needs.” Last year, the USCCB Subcommittee on Catholic Home Missions approved more than $9 million in grants for 2015. n The Archeparchy of Pittsburgh is a recipient of CHM funding. More information can be found at www.usccb.org
Byzantine Catholic Seminary APRIL 2015 Schedule of Services Guests are invited to join the Seminary community at liturgical services. To access the Seminary Chapel, please use the chapel doors facing Perrysville Ave. It is suggested that you call the Seminary Office (412-321-8383) a day in advance so we may anticipate your arrival. All are welcome!
(M) = Melkite tradition
3605 Perrysville Avenue | Pittsburgh, PA 15214 | www.bcs.edu
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Sisters of Saint Basil to meet for 2015 Chapter ‘facing the future with courage’ chosen as chapter theme
financial and administrative aspects of their lives together. Looking to the future and how best they can continue serving God through his people will continue to guide the Chapter deliberations. The Chapter Preparatory Committee is chaired by Sister Margaret Andrako, with Sister Agnes Herbenick, Sister Sylvia Burnett and Sister Margaret Kapusnak as members and Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick as Council Liaison. Sister Patricia Flynn, SSND, has been working with the committee and the community at large and will facilitate the Chapter, which will take place April 16 through 19. The Sisters of St. Basil ask the faithful for their prayers for the guidance of the Holy Spirit during this sacred time in the life of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Province. n
continued from page 1 priestly ordination on May 27, 1972 in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. The bishopdesignate’s advanced degrees were earned at the Pontifical Oriental Institute (1981) and the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (1994), both in Rome. The Byzantine Eparchy of Piano degli Albanesi has been vacant since the retirement of Bishop Sotír Ferrara in April 2013. The eparchy has 29,000 Catholics, 28 priests, 4 deacons and 159 religious. n Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla, the clergy, religious and faithful of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh congratulate Bishop-designate George, and wish him peace, health and happiness for many blessed years!
BCW file photo / Nick Havrilla, Sr.
“Time flies quickly” is a truism that always strikes home for the Basilian Sisters when the time for another Provincial Chapter draws near. In monastic communities, these formal meetings take place every five years for the purpose of reviewing goals and electing leadership. Preparation for this significant event began in November, 2013, and was placed in the hands of a Chapter Preparatory Committee. The committee used previous conversations focusing on our legacy as a springboard for involving the total community. These discussions built upon previous work during Corporate Reflection Days in the fall and spring and Community Days in the summer. During the course of these meetings, the Sisters shared their hopes relating to the spiritual, apostolic,
Gallaro
Father George Gallaro was a familiar and hospitable presence at the annual Deanery Spaghetti Dinner, prepared and served by clergy of the Greater Pittsburgh Presbytery. Father George’s culinary expertise once again was put to work in the kitchen at the 2014 event, held at St. Elias Church in Munhall, Pa.
Choosing life a labor of love pro-life services help those in need by Deacon Paul Boboige
The Sisters find that small group discussions work very well in sharing vision, ideas, hopes and dreams. Facilitator Sister Patricia Flynn, SSND, pictured standing, guides the discussions.
The call to “religious life” in the Catholic Church — also known as “vowed life” or “consecrated life”— is a call to become more like Christ by living the values of prayer, ministry, and community. This call can be lived out in a number of unique ways: Apostolic/ Active; Missionary; Contemplative; Semi-Cloistered/Cloistered; Monastic. Yet, all religious priests, sisters, and brothers take vows of poverty, celibacy, and obedience, commonly called the “evangelical counsels.” Source: http://vocationnetwork.org
On Tuesday March 17, the chanting of Byzantine Catholic prostopinije echoed on Liberty Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh. Our faithful from the Pennsylvania parishes of Nativity of the Mother of God, DuBois (Father Simeon Sibenik, administrator), SS. Peter and Paul, Tarentum (Father Wesley Mash, pastor), and St. John Chrysostom, Pittsburgh/Greenfield (Father Tom Schaefer, pastor), along with Roman Catholics from St. John Church, Cabot prayed the Moleben for the Victims of Abortion led by Deacon Paul Boboige of the Archeparchy’s Pro-Life Office. The service occurred outside of Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania where women were entering, having been convinced by others that terminating the innocent new life within their wombs was a decent thing to do. Earlier that morning a lady and a man approached the entrance, she with a look of concern on her face. One of the men from an area Evangelical
church caught her attention before she reached the door, proclaiming “vita!” (life!) to the perceived Filipino. She approached him outside the prohibited prayer zone and explained that she was pregnant and was going there for a sonogram - that she had no intention of aborting her baby. He gently and reassuringly accompanied her to Catholic Charities, just a half block away, where they would perform the free sonogram and suggest ways they could help her if she was in need. Many people aren’t aware that pro-life social services and private crisis pregnancy centers do have qualified people and a host of resources to help those in need. Unlike Planned Parenthood, which receives a great amount of federal funding and runs for-profit abortion operations, these pro-life agencies depend almost entirely upon charitable donations. Let us then likewise charitably use this awareness to recommend pro-life services and do just our little part to inform and change the hearts and minds of these, our friends and neighbors, and to reinforce to them that all life is precious and that there is no need for desperation. n
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SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2015
A retreat for all seasons
father scott seethaler’s ‘l.e.n.t.’ event by Kathe Kress
The Byzantine Serra Club’s March 7 retreat day at the Seminary was an event not to be missed. Noted speaker Fr. Scott Seethaler, OFM Cap led the retreat, themed L.E.N.T. (Let’s Eliminate Negative Thinking). He gave a morning and afternoon presentation that day, and a recap of the morning presentation follows. Father Scott began by introducing himself and the Franciscan charism of Joy and the joy we anticipate during Lent as we prepare to celebrate the Resurrection of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He reminded participants that in the Byzantine Church, we continue the joy of the Resurrection by including the word “Alleluia” in our Great Fast (Lent) Divine Liturgies. In the Roman Church, there are no Alleluias during Lent. He said “As a follower of Jesus, you have one foot in the natural world and one foot in the spiritual world, most of the time. God will speak to you today, but not out loud. Listen in your heart.” Father Scott asked the retreatants to write three acts of faith on a sheet of paper: “Do you personally believe that Jesus is God? Do you believe that God is involved in your life on a daily basis? and Do you believe that God answers prayers?” He then asked retreatants to pray for the one thing they most need. Looking out at those gathered, he reminded them that God is present in life and in the world, that he answers prayer, that he is able to forgive and that he is present, not only in the present day but in our future. What was Father Scott saying here? He asked for a show of hands to determine the age of his retreatants. The answer was not one person in the chapel was under 50 years old. Father Scott then reminded them that “when you are over 50, you are in the last third of your life.” With that in mind, a person needs to act with a heart directed to God who desires to be our future. We live in a Godless age, when God and religion are under massive attack. It is our duty as Christians to welcome God back into our lives and the world, a world that has marginalized and dehumanized the poor wherever they live. There is much negative thinking about prayer. People
St. Gregory Bethany Ministry hosts speaker
special program acknowledges 15 years by Dorothy Mayernik
Father Scott Seethaler, OFM Cap
become discouraged when prayer turns dry, or when they are assailed by distractions. To this, Father Scott’s answer is “Pray the way you can, not the way you can’t!” Attempts at duplicating or comparing one’s prayer life to that of monks or saints will always fall short. Prayer is a conversation within a personal relationship with God, and we must persevere despite the distractions that come our way. Father Scott reminded the retreatants that Christianity is an abnormal way of life. “When you are hurt, you gotta forgive,” he said. “The Our Father has a line that nails us to the cross: ‘Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.’ Forgiveness is not a thing, but a person – Jesus.” Where else but in the crucified Jesus do we find the extreme example of forgiveness? But for us, forgiveness does not equal forgetting the hurt; it is letting go of the pain and moving on. Father Scott recalled the Parable of the Prodigal Son, acting it out to gain the perspective of the forgiving father, the forgiven younger son and the difficult stance of the older brother. He gave retreatants much food for thought, but then it was time for lunch. (To Be Continued) n
“Care and Concern for One Another” was the topic of the Bethany Ministry speaker series, presented on Sunday, March 15 by Amy Armanious, RN, DNP, MSOL, a health ministry specialist with Pittsburgh Mercy Health System’s Parish Nurse and Health Ministry Program and a member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in McCandless Township. In her talk, Amy acknowledged the 15th anniversary of St. Gregory’s Bethany Ministry, initiated in 2000. She also noted the 1986 beginnings of national and worldwide organizations, Health Ministries Association and the International Parish Nurse Resource Center, both of which recognize the important role of the church and its members in promoting healing by reaching out in love and friendship to fellow parishioners. “So many churches in our area as well as across the country have ministries based on loving your neighbor: Care and Concern committees, Stephen Ministries, elder outreach initiatives, and Faith in Action groups. I think your group’s name, Bethany Ministry, is especially meaningful and beautiful.” Referring to an icon depicting the friendship of Jesus, Lazarus, Mary, and Martha in the town of Bethany, Amy pointed out how we all should seek to imitate them. “Jesus is the model of love, care, and compassion. Lazarus stands in support of Jesus, his friend and teacher. This also tells us to support our pastor, who is also our teacher. We see Mary as she listens, learns, and shares. And Martha helps with tasks, sharing her gift of hospitality, serving, and creating.”
Kathe Kress is a freelance writer and parishioner at Holy Ghost Church, McKees Rocks, Pa. Part two of her story on the Serra Club's day of retreat will appear in the next issue of The BCW. the byzantine catholic world
Parishioners were asked to consider joining the 14 current members of Bethany Ministry and giving whatever time and talent they can. “We expect that our church families will be the aloe and healing balm to help us when we are sick, homebound, or experiencing some difficulty in life,” Amy said, “But I can tell you from my experience that this doesn’t always happen in today’s fast-paced world. Things don’t happen automatically . . . you have to get organized. It takes commitment and follow through.” Amy related how during her mother’s long illness, simple gestures like a phone call, visit, or receiving a card or the church bulletin in the mail meant so much. “But when my mother got more and more ill, the contacts stopped because I think people were uncomfortable and didn’t know what to say or do,” she said. “At that time, we needed people more than ever. Please don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Can we all ask ourselves, ‘With my Godgiven unique gifts, talents, skills, temperament, and time, where and how is God calling me to care for my neighbor in a new and inspiring way?’” Amy concluded using a jar of pennies. “Pick a partner. Pick a penny. One of the pair speaks. Share what was happening to you in that specific year on your penny. The second partner only offers ‘presence.’ Pay attention to how it makes you feel to have someone really listen to you.” This Bethany Ministry presentation was warmly received by our faithful. As an expression of gratitude, the ministry presented to Amy an icon of “Christ the Bridegroom” in the spirit of the Great Fast. n
Bethany Ministry speaker Amy Armanious (right) receives an icon of Christ the Bridegroom from Bethany Ministry coordinator Dorothy Mayernik.
SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2015
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PASCHA 2015
Holy Week celebrations at St. John Cathedral
Great and Holy Thursday
Great and Holy Friday
Resurrection Matins and Blessing of Baskets
CHRIST IS RISEN! INDEED HE IS RISEN!
photos by Nick Havrilla, Sr.
‘From Conflict to Communion’
lutheran-catholic common commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the reformation
15th Annual Saints Cyril and Methodius Lecture scheduled for May 7 noted scholar dr. scott hahn engaged as guest lecturer
What: An event for clergy, religious, teachers, lay rostered, and interested Christians Sponsored by: The Bishops of the Byzantine Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, the Catholic Diocese of Greensburg, and the Southwestern Pa. Synod. When: Wednesday, April 29, 2015 -10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Where: St. Paul Seminary, Crafton, Pa. Event begins with a welcome by our leaders, opening devotions, and presentations from: Rev. Dr. Timothy Wengert Rev. Dr. John Crossin COST: $20 – lunch included – (deadline for online registration is April 21). TO REGISTER & PAY: http://www.regonline.com/ con2com INFO: Call the SWPA Synod office at 412-367-8222. n the byzantine catholic world
parish news PAGE 6
SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2015
Parish blessed with activity a community journey through lent As part of our Lenten journey, we welcomed the faithful to St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church on Wednesday, March 11 for the second day of the South Hills Lenten Mission. This prayerful and collaborative event between St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church and St. Lousie de Marillac Roman Catholic Parish, which started last year, offers the opportunity to visit one another’s parish community and to participate together in a Lenten Service. The evening at St. Gregory’s began with the Order of Holy Confession, followed by with the celebration of the Moleben to the Holy Cross. The homilist for this evening was Father Joseph Sioli (above), pastor of St. Louise Church. At the conclusion of the Moleben Service, the faithful had the opportunity to come forward and venerate the Holy Cross decorated with flowers. We thank all for participating in this prayerful event that brings us together during this holy season of the Great Fast. n
Just look at what the Wind(ber) blew in . . .
st. mary parish shares festive photos
15 years for st. gregory bethany ministry On Palm Sunday, March 29, Prayers of Thanksgiving and a Blessing were bestowed upon the members of Bethany Ministry of St. Gregory of Nazianzus Parish in Upper St. Clair, Pa. in recognition of their 15th anniversary of serving the parish family. As part of this celebration, each member was presented with a booklet of Prayers for Healing and an Icon depicting Our Lord at the house of Mary and Martha in Bethany (Luke 10: 38-41). St. Gregory Church was among the first five parishes in the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh to begin a Bethany Ministry program using the handbook and training class developed between 1998-2000 by a committee under the guidance of the Office of Religious Education. Inspired by the scriptural passage John 11:2045, the ministry strives to provide compassion, hope, and caring so clearly illustrated in Jesus’ encounter with Martha, Mary, and Lazarus. Over the past 15 years, Bethany Ministry’s goal has been to make St. Gregory’s a place where everyone is known and cared about, especially during times of illness, loss, and difficulty. Following the Divine Liturgy, a celebration cake and fellowship was shared by the faithful. Bethany Ministry members then prepared Easter baskets to take on visits to homebound parishioners during Holy Week. n
Even with the cold, snow, and festivity of December 2014 well behind us, it’s always a pleasure to find old photos to share - and hope that the chill of winter doesn’t return until St. Nicholas’ next visit! St. Mary Church in Windber, Pa. had a fun-filled visit from St. Nicholas back on Dec. 7. The parish hall was filled with faithful awaiting the arrival of their special guest. Parish Administrator Monsignor Raymond Balta also greeted the revelers, and especially thanked parishioner Ed Zablotney for providing accordion music for the occasion. Infants Harrison and Hayden Heinrich may not remember that St. Nicholas held them in his arms that day, but thanks to parishioner Bill Koshute, who shared these photos, they - and we - can look back and smile. n
a very busy palm sunday Palm Sunday was very special for our St. Gregory parish family as we celebrated Our Lord’s Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem March 29. Following a beautiful Divine Liturgy we all received palms and willow branches and then gathered in our Church hall for various activities and even some pre-Easter shopping. This year our parishioners had the opportunity to learn the art of Pysanky, which is the traditional Eastern form of Easter egg painting. We also enjoyed learning how to make decorative crosses from the palms we received on this special day. We hope to keep these customs that bring us together alive during this most sacred time of the year. n
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photos by Jodi Hernandez and Marjan Michlik
SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2015
parish news
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Look toward the heavens unique ceiling mural a source of history, pride for pittsburgh parish by Mary Huzinec
many church murals. In 1961, Juharos opened a gallery named Treasure Art Gallery, the oldest in Sedona, in a quaint stone building on Highway 179, which is owned and operated by Juharos’s wife, Mary. Although she wasn’t married to him at the time the mural was painted, she has memories of her late husband talking about what an extraordinary undertaking it was to paint the mural. “It took a lot out of him,” she said, “He worked so hard on it, he was skin and bones. It took him 6 months to complete. He built a scaffold, put the canvas on a wall, like wallpaper, and painted that way, not like Michelangelo’s frescoes.” Although Mary Juharos has never seen the mural in St. John’s, she has documentation of her husband’s artistic creations, including all of the names of the people pictured in this mural. Her daughter, Beth Mills, has painstakingly made a list of them. In the center of this mural, we see Jesus Christ, wearing a crown and sitting on a throne. Directly behind him is the altar of Saint Peter’s Basilica on which is depicted the Holy Eucharist and a lamb. On Christ’s left side are the great fathers of the Eastern Church, Saints John Chrysostom and Basil the Great. On the right are the Apostles of the Slavs, Saints Cyril and Methodius. Below these figures, there are symbols of the history of the Catholic Church, centering on Eastern Rite church history. There is Saint Peter, the first vicar of Christ near Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome - and Saint Paul, the Apostle of all Nations, pictured near Hagia Sophia in Constantinople.
Timothy P. Weber
Visitors to St. John the Baptist Church on Pittsburgh’s South Side are sometimes surprised to discover an awe-inspiring sight when they look upward - “Church Unity,” a mural painted by the late Hungarian artist Stephen Juharos, that covers nearly the entire ceiling. The breathtaking painting which envisions the history of the Catholic Church throughout the centuries, reminds its viewers of the importance of the Second Vatican Council’s emphasis on church unity. The 50th anniversary of the Council is being celebrated this year. The mural, which measures 36 feet by 50 feet, was conceived and commissioned in 1965 by the late pastor of St. John’s, Monsignor Ernest Dunda. Father Thomas Schaefer, the pastor of St. John’s, is pleased that such an incredible and important work of art appears on the ceiling of one of his parishes. Father also presides over St. John Chrysostom in Greenfield. “This work of art is also a treasure of historical significance” Father Tom asserts. “It reminds us of the strife division causes in the Church, but also the joy and hope that the quest for unity brings. That was a principle goal of Vatican II.” Artist Juharos, who fell asleep in the Lord in 2010, was an acclaimed artist who was born in Budapest, Hungary, and immigrated to America in 1949. As a child, he was captivated by stories of America’s Old West, so when he came to America, he visited Arizona, and ended up settling in Sedona. He painted numerous portraits of Arizonan dignitaries, including Senator Barry Goldwater in 1964, Viola Babbitt in 1976, and also painted notable murals in Flagstaff, and
The ceiling mural of St. John the Baptist Church, South Side Pittsburgh.
Between these two saints is the First Ecumenical Council of the Church, which took place at Nicea in the 4th century. It was at this council that the doctrines of the Catholic Church were instituted, among them, The Creed, a prayer composed by Saint Athanasius with the approval of the Council of Nicea. The council was dominated by the Fathers of the Byzantine Rite - 312 bishops with only 6 present from the Latin Rite. In the 11th century, the Church was split in two. In a scene in the mural, Patriarch Caerularius is tearing the Bull of Unity. Near this scene, sheep are also separating, some to the left, and some to the right. On the opposite side of the mural, Patriarch Izidor, who came to the Ecumenical Council in the 15th century, and signed the unity of the Catholic Church, is shown being stoned by monks as they departed from
the Council. Pope John XXIII, who created the Second Vatican Council, and Pope Paul VI, who continued the work of unity, are shown, gazing upon the Fathers seated at the Council, among them, Bishops Elko, Kocisko, Wright, Connare, Sheen and others. In the center of the mural, above Christ, is Mary, the Mother of Jesus, who was doctrinally proclaimed to be the “Mother of the Church” at Vatican II. At the top of the mural is the Most Holy Trinity, who rules the minds and hearts of Christ’s flock. The protector of all Christians, the Trinity, leads all men towards unity and peace so that one day “all may be one…” Father Tom Schaefer and the parishioners of St. John’s are proud of this amazing painting, and are scheduling tours, so that people from far and wide can appreciate this inspirational work of art. n
South Side parish in 2015 ‘Church Crawl’ event
festival for the senses april 19 . . . ‘see the beauty! hear the history! touch the faith!’ The Faith communities of Pittsburgh’s South Side will host a Church Crawl on Sunday April 19 from 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Nine worship sites will be open to visit including Anglican, Byzantine Catholic, Orthodox, Presbyterian and Roman Catholic. Start at any location and visit as many sites as you choose. Guided tours will be provided at each worship site, complementary refreshments will be available while supplies last, and more. The Calling of the Bells will take place at 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30. Free parking and shuttle service available. Following your visit, enjoy a 10% discount at any one of the partnering restaurants found in the Church Crawl program brochure.
St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church is located at 1720 Jane Street. Parish Administrator Father Tom Schaefer and parishioners hope to see many Byzantine faithful from around the Archeparchy at this ecumenical event. To aid in planning and accommodating guests, please e-mail the number of visitors you plan to bring to the South Side Church Crawl to: southsidechurchcrawl@gmail.com or call 412-422-9017. Visit www.prineofpeacepittsburgh.org or stjohnspittsburgh.com for more details. COME AND EXPERIENCE another part of South Side’s HEART and SOUL! n
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SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2015
Corner
Activity A very special Activity . . .
PRAY!
As your activity to this lesson, have a heavenly conversation - a talk with God!
Think of some of the blessings that you received this day. Write a list of:
The people you are thankful for The things you are thankful for
Thank God for all of these blessings and share God’s love with another person.
Now I lay me down to SLEEP . . .
All of these activities are forms of PRAYER! AMEN!
by Sandy Simko
When you were very young, someone who loved you introduced you to prayer. A bedtime prayer was probably the first prayer you learned, such as “Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep” or a simple “I love you dear God” or “Thank you for my Mom and Dad.” PRAYER is a group of words asking for something. To PRAY is when you talk to God, when you think about God, when you are thanking God, and when you love God. You can speak to God out loud or quietly in your heart. Personal prayer may be said anytime during the day or night. St. Paul preached that you should pray as often as you can. Examples of simple and beautiful personal prayer include these two popular prayers to your Guardian Angel: Angel of God, my Guardian Dear, To whom God’s love entrusts me here. Ever this day be at my side To watch and guard, to rule and guide. Amen. A second Guardian Angel prayer is: Angel of God, my holy Guardian, given to me for my protection! I implore you to enlighten me this day, to protect me from all evil, To urge me on to do good deeds and to guide me on the path of salvation. Amen.
You may have your own special morning prayer or you may use this one: O my Jesus, I offer to You all my thoughts, words and actions of this day, indeed my whole self. And please Jesus bless me as you blessed the children who came to You. May I be pleasing to You this day. Amen. An evening prayer may read: O God my Father, who loves everyone, I give you thanks for my day is done. Thank you Lord for my health and for your love. Keep me ever by your side until morning is near. You honor and praise God with your private daily prayers but when you are at Divine Liturgy, you are showing your love for God with your church family. If you are attentive and listening to the service, you will hear many, many prayers honoring God. PARTICIPATING IN DIVINE LITURGY IS A WONDERFUL WAY TO GLORIFY GOD. There are short and simple prayers such as the sign of the holy Cross: In the name of the Father, the Son; and the Holy Spirit. Amen. We touch our forehead to show that we want to know God with our mind. We touch our chest to show that we love God with all our heart. We touch our shoulders right to left, to show that our actions and work are for God. REMEMBER, THE SIGN OF THE CROSS IS A PRAYER AND SHOULD BE MADE CAREFULLY AND RESPECTFULLY AS YOU ARE HONORING GOD THE FATHER, THE SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT.
In the Divine Liturgy, “AMEN” actually is a short one-word prayer usually said at the end of another prayer and shows that we agree with what was said in the prayer: “Yes, let it be so.” “ALLELUIA” is another one-word prayer which means “praise the Lord.” “LORD HAVE MERCY” is a prayer you will hear many times in the Divine Liturgy. Depending on the chanted petition, we are asking God for His kindness, for divine blessings or for forgiveness. The list of Divine Liturgy prayers goes on and on. Other prayers are: • The Profession of Faith - the “I Believe in God” prayer • Prayer of Thanksgiving - the priest thanks God for everything • The Our Father - when the apostles asked Jesus how to pray, this prayer was his answer • The Thrice-Holy Hymn - “Holy God! Holy and Mighty! Holy and Immortal! Have mercy on us!” • In the angelic prayer, we join the angels in heaven and sing “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Hosts . . .” • The magnification prayer honoring Mary, the Theotokos “It is truly proper ...” • The Communion prayer is said as we prepare to receive the Holy Eucharist. THE DIVINE LITURGY IS THE HIGHEST FORM OF PRAYER, OUR GREATEST GIFT OF LOVE AND THANKS TO GOD, AND OUR DEEPEST ACT OF FAITH AND HOPE! n This icon of the Angelic Assembly of St. Michael the Archangel was written in Russia in the early 1700s. According to the gospel of Matthew, chapter 18 verse 6, Jesus said of the children: “See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father.” Thus, each of us as a child of God has an angel in heaven who in the glorious presence of our Creator acts on our behalf.
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HAPPY ARE THE ONES WHOM YOU HAVE CHOSEN AND RECEIVED, O LORD; THEY ARE REMEMBERED FOREVER. ALLELUIA! Commemorating the 22nd Anniversary of the repose in the Lord of
In Blessed Memory
Archbishop Thomas Victor Dolinay Metropolitan Archbishop of Pittsburgh Born: July 24, 1923 Ordained: May 16, 1948 Episcopal Ordination: November 23, 1976 Enthroned as Metropolitan Archbishop: June 12, 1991 Fell asleep in the Lord: Bright Tuesday, April 13, 1993
Papal Mass Pilgrimage philadelphia, pa. september 26-27
PILGRIMAGE INCLUDES: •Luxury Round-trip Motorcoach Transportation •1 night Hotel lodging at Country Inn of Lancaster •One Breakfast (hotel) and One Dinner (Good ‘n’ Plenty) (All other meals on your own) •Performance of “Joseph” at Sight and Sound Theater •Additional Transport to Philadelphia for Papal Liturgy
Facts about child abuse prevention programs from the USCCB Secretariat for Child and Youth Protection (SCYP) — In 2014, 160,273 educators, 35,308 priests, 16,006 deacons and 6,568 candidates for ordination have had their backgrounds evaluated. — All audited dioceses/eparchies have Codes of Conduct spelling out what is acceptable behavior. These codes serve to let people know what behaviors are and are not accepted as well as what behavior can be expected. — All dioceses/eparchies have Victim Assistance Coordinators, assuring victims that they will be heard. In 2014 dioceses/eparchies provided outreach to 1,863 victim/survivors.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JUNE 1, 2015! Please note: Reservations are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. We have secured a limited number of rooms for our pilgrimage based on bus capacity of 50. Once all spaces are filled, a waitng list will be started. Hard-copy Reservation Form (below) and non-refundable payment in full are due at time of registration. No phone or e-mail reservations will be accepted.
PAPAL PILGRIMAGE TO PHILADELPHIA • REGISTRATION FORM •
Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. NOTE: A registration form is required for EACH person in your party. Payment in full is due with registration. DEADLINE: JUNE 1, 2015
Name ________________________________ Address ______________________________ City __________________________________ State____________Zip Code ______________ Parish ________________________________ Phone (home)__________________________ (cell) _________________________________ Email ________________________________ Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy): ____/____/_______ Gender: ___M ____F HOTEL RESERVATIONS - TRAVELING ALONE
If you are traveling alone and do not wish to pay for a single occupancy room, but do not have companion(s) with whom you would prefer to stay, then your hotel room and roommates (of the same gender) will be assigned based on your occupancy preference.
Single person room occupancy preference: _____Single $425 _____Double $315 _____Triple $295 all prices are per person
"
HOTEL - TRAVELING WITH COMPANION(S) Room occupancy preference: (price per person) _____Double $315 _____Triple $295 Name(s) of those with whom you wish to stay: 1)____________________________________ 2)____________________________________ MAIL THIS FORM AND PAYMENT IN FULL TO: Papal Visit Pilgrimage
c/o 66 Riverview Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15214 the byzantine catholic world
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SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2015
thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras
THE DESCENT INTO HADES - part three Sometimes Hades is called “limbo.” However, Hades is not to be confused with yet another place for departed souls, the limbo of children who die without baptism. There is no doubt that it is the church teaching that baptism is necessary for salvation, based on the Gospel where our Lord tells Nicodemus, “Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.” (John 3:5) The problem is that infants are innocent of personal sin, and it seemed quite cruel to consign them to condemnation. It is was not through their own personal fault that they did not physically receive baptism. To protect the integrity of the necessity of baptism and the mercy of God, a place of natural happiness without the “beatific vision,” the Western term for the immediate presence of God which is salvation or deification, was proposed. Probably St. Augustine was the first father to describe limbo as a place where those who are unbaptized are not admitted to the presence of God yet reside in a place of natural happiness, without punishment. In modern times, however, the Limbo for children has been called into question. Baptism is necessary, The Catechism of the Catholic Church reaffirms, but while “God has bound salvation to the sacrament of baptism, ... he himself is not bound by his sacraments. (§ 1257)” Hence, people outside the economia can be saved, but not by ways known by the Church. Pope Benedict XVI supported
this conclusion in 2007 in the document “The Hope of Salvation for Infants who die without being Baptized,” “We live by faith and hope in the God of mercy and love who has been revealed to us in Christ, and the Spirit moves us to pray in constant thankfulness and joy.” This brings us to the whole question of the salvation of those “outside the Church.” In the past responses to this question were often quite rigid and absolute. You needed to be physically baptized to be saved from sin and condemnation. This is why it was imperative that parents were to make sure that their children were baptized. We have seen from the quotation from The Catechism of the Catholic Church that God is all-merciful, and that he never condemns anyone who is innocent. The law of baptism binds those who come to knowledge of the faith through the teachings of Christ. If we hear Jesus’ word, then we must accept baptism as the path to salvation. However, if we are in ignorance not through our own fault, then God will not condemn us without mercy. It is still crucially important that parents who are Christian and will raise their children in the faith bring them to baptism, because it is our Lord’s revelation that this is salvation from the evils of the world and birth into new life. Just as we would not starve our children of bodily food, so also we do not deprive them of the nourishment of faith. Of course, this also means Communion, which is part of baptism, and the continuation of our baptismal commitment to faith throughout our life. Therefore,
Jesus also taught, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you.” (John 6:53) We sometimes look at these requirements backwardly. We do not save ourselves through receiving the sacraments worthily, but it is the grace of God working in the sacramental mysteries that sanctifies us through his mercy, love and power. If we hear the authentic Gospel of our Lord, then we are sanctified and deified, saved from sins and death, through our participation in the sacramental mysteries, particularly baptism and communion. The extent of God’s mercy, however, goes even further. This does not make the sacramental rites less essential for us, but it does expand our faith in God’s infinite love for his creation. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (§ 1260) teaches, “Every man who is ignorant of the Gospel of Christ and of his Church, but seeks the truth and does the will of God in accordance with his understanding of it, can be saved.” This is sometimes called “baptism by desire.” We know from Church practice that if someone who is a catechumen, that is, learning about the faith in preparation for baptism, should die unexpectedly, by sudden illness or accident, without actually being baptized by water, is still buried with the full Christian rites. They are considered to live in faith. Likewise, the Church also recognized “baptism by fire,” those who died for Christ without being able to receive physical baptism in water.
We see now why Hades is so important. Through his descent into Hades Christ proclaimed salvation to all who had fallen asleep in death before his coming and his death on the cross and resurrection from the tomb. There are many other ways of being ignorant of the Gospel of Christ. Billions of people have never heard of Christ, but God certainly loves them and desires their salvation. Sometimes people hear of Christ, but only in a very superficial or distorted way. They, too, cannot be held blameworthy of ignorance of the faith. St. Paul tells us, “But how can they call on him [the name of the Lord] in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can people preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring [the] good news!’” (Romans 10:14-15) The story is told of when Gandhi once visited a church while studying in England. He was turned away at the door being told he should go worship with his own people. Conservative Christians bristle at the story, and complain that Gandhi did not have an authentic understanding of the Christian message, but the point is that that racist congregation certainly did not display an authentic Christianity either. And racism is a sin that too many Christian are guilty of; it stands in the way of the Gospel. In how many other ways have individual Christians made it difficult to hear the real Gospel? n
HAPPY ARE THE ONES WHOM YOU HAVE CHOSEN AND RECEIVED, O LORD; THEY ARE REMEMBERED FOREVER. ALLELUIA!
In Blessed Memory
Commemorating the 14th Anniversary of the repose in the Lord of His Eminence
Archbishop Judson M. Procyk Metropolitan Archbishop of Pittsburgh Born: April 9, 1931 Ordained: May 19, 1957 Episcopal Ordination: February 7, 1995 Fell asleep in the Lord: April 24, 2001 the byzantine catholic world
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‘Inherit the kingdom prepared for you’ coming home: an ordinary yet extraordinary life well-lived by Deacon Dennis M. Prestash
In today’s society, we see so many heroes that inspire us to greatness. A lot of these courageous people make headline news each day. However, we see other heroes who simply lead ordinary lives: those who enjoy not being in the spotlight but have important lessons to be told, a story to be shared. Patricia Ann Murphy Prestash was one of those people - a beautiful, attractive woman inside and out who lived with pure intentions and with love in her heart, while being a great role model and inspiration to anyone she encountered. Patty and I met 32 years ago at the Osceola Mills carnival. After dating a while and getting to know each other, I thought I would ask her to church. She said yes, and the first service she attended at St. John’s, my home parish in Hawk Run, was Great and Holy Friday Entombment Vespers - two hours long! We were kneeling, processing and kissing everything that had a cross on it. I left the church that night thinking there was no way that this beautiful blonde would go back to this little red brick church on the hill. But when Easter Sunday came around and I asked her which church she would like to attend (hers or mine) she said, “We will go to yours.” From then on we truly began our holy journey together. We were married October 21, 1989 at St. John’s. After the wedding, Patty immediately was adopted into our church family. She was there for the youth groups, the dances and Live Nativities. She welcomed the hundreds of priests and religious who visited our home over the years - always giving them that wonderful Irish smile and something to eat. Through the years, she was there to support and to encourage me to complete my diaconate training shortly after completing my Engineering degree at Penn State University, where she worked as Grants Coordinator and was held in high esteem by her colleagues. When I think about Patty, I think about family. Family was very important to her. She loved her family. She loved my family. But most of all she loved our family - our son “Little Denny.” He was the apple of her eye. She loved spending time with him playing board games. Taking an afternoon
The Prestash family - Patty, Deacon Denny and Denny Jr. on a family trip to Disney World in 2014.
to assemble a 1,200 piece LEGO® creature set. Going for short walks in the yard to pick tomatoes. Going to movies. An interesting fact most people don’t know is that the doctors wanted Patty to have an abortion when we conceived Little Denny because of possible complications that could happen because of her age. Sure, Patty was high risk. But it took all of two seconds to let the doctors know that the course of action they suggested didn’t exist as far as she was concerned. She valued life and affirming the preservation of lives of the unborn. The last part of Patty’s life was one of great struggle; however, she never gave up. Three years ago, Patty was diagnosed with kidney cancer which metastasized to her hip. Some people were dumbfounded. They couldn’t believe that this faith-filled family could be experiencing such a tragedy. When was the miracle going to happen? Well, let me tell you the miracles were multiplied in this short time period that Patty was to remain on this earth, from a successful hip surgery, which enabled her to see Denny at 9 years old pitch his first baseball game and rip his first little league hit, to visiting Disney World twice, to being able to regularly attend church services and participate in the life of our parish. All of these were miracles that God granted Patty and our family. Simply put, Patty truly lived each day to it fullest and was a true fighter, yet had a profound inner peace. The last week or so of Patty’s life was very difficult, spent at Johns Hopkins Medical Center in Baltimore surrounded by
family and friends. At these last moments, our family decided to establish a fund* because we noticed that many families do not have the resources to stay at a hotel or even at the hospital’s family center. When caring for a patient with a long term illness such as cancer, it can be a muchneeded relief to sleep in a bed and to get a hot shower. The fund also will support ongoing cancer research at Johns Hopkins. Patty even made a provision to donate her tissue for research in hope of ending this terrible disease. One of the most shocking and sorrowful times in our lives was watching Patty fall asleep. No matter how much you prepare yourself, you’re never ready for that to happen. We all said “we love you Patty” before she took her last breath. That day, Friday March 13, Patty fell asleep in the Lord and our Heavenly Father came and with his strong and loving arms took her home to Heaven. Yes, the Lord carried her home - where she belongs. Welcome home Patty, and we who are still here on earth will carry on your shining example by keeping your memory alive in our prayers, in our deeds, in our hearts, and in our dreams. We all can take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace in Paradise, where there is no pain, sorrow, nor mourning, but life everlasting. Christ is Risen! n Deacon Dennis serves his home parish, St. John the Baptist in Hawk Run, Pa., where Father Will Rupp is pastor. * A GoFundMe page has been established in memory of Patty Prestash at www.gofundme.com/ patriciaprestash.
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obituary
Patricia A. Prestash Patricia Ann (Murphy) Prestash, 50, of Sandy Ridge, Pa. fell asleep in the Lord Friday, March 13, 2015 at John Hopkins Medical Center in Baltimore, Md. The wife of Deacon Dennis M. Prestash, she was a member of St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church in Hawk Run, where her husband serves. Born June 9, 1964 in Philipsburg, Pa. Patty was the daughter of the late James H. and Betty (Vail) Murphy. She graduated from PhilipsburgOsceola High School and South Hills Business College. She worked as a grants administrator at Penn State University. Married Oct. 21, 1989 St. John Church, the couple had one son, Dennis Jr. In addition to her husband and son, Patty is survived by her sister, Shirley Murphy of Osceola Mills. She also is survived by fatherin-law George E. Prestash Jr.; mother-in-law, Maryann (Delpra) Prestash; brothersin-law, George E. Prestash III, Thomas A. Prestash and John E. Prestash; a sister-inlaw, Victoria E. Rusnak and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends were received Thursday March 19 at St. John Church, where the Parastas was held that evening. Funeral Divine Liturgy was celebrated Friday morning March 20 at the church, with Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich and St. John pastor Father William Rupp officiating, assisted by Deacon Dennis. Interment service followed in St. John’s Cemetery, Hawk Run. n
May God grant to his faithful servant Patricia Ann Eternal Memory, blessed and peaceful repose!
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Answer Pope Francis’ call to Discipleship
ENCOUNTER! REJOICE!
LEAD! Young Adult Catholic Retreat Weekend Ages 18-35
Mount St. Macrina House of Prayer
510 W. Main Street Uniontown, PA 15401
7 p.m. Friday May 29 thru 11 a.m. Sunday May 31 Both Singles AND Married Couples are welcome! Sponsored by the Sisters of St. Basil the Great www.sistersofstbasil.org
Registration deadline: Friday, May 22 Only $100 for the weekend $50 deposit is due at the time of registration. $50 balance is due upon check-in at the retreat.
For further information, contact Sister Barbara Jean 724-438-7149
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: MAY 3
submissions deadline: APRIL 21
around the archeparchy ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET - Sponsored by St. Mary’s Youth Group of St. Mary Church, Trauger, Pa. Held at St. Mary’s Center, Route 981 in Trauger. Sunday, April 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Adults $6; Children ages 5-10 $ 3; ages 4 & under - FREE! SPRING FESTIVAL - Greek Catholic Union Lodge 28 will sponsor a spring festival on Saturday and Sunday, April 18-19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will be held at St. John the Baptist Church social hall, 1720 Jane Street, South Side (Pittsburgh). The festival will consist of a flea market, homemade chicken noodle soup sale, bake sale, raffle basket table and Tupperware sale. For more information, contact Kim Kolesar at 412-469-0659. BETHANY MINISTRY WORKSHOP - Saturday April 18, 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Elias Church, Munhall, Pa. This is a free workshop. To register, contact Dorothy Mayernik at 412-310-0521, Becky Johnen at 304-904-3501, or email bethany-ministry@verizon.net. SPAGHETTI DINNER - SS. Peter & Paul Church, 701 Foster Avenue in Duquesne, Pa. invites you to take a break from ham, kolbassi and paska and enjoy meatballs, sauce and pasta Sunday April 19 from 1 to 5 p.m. in the parish hall. Adults $8, children 10 and under $4; FREE for children 5 and under. Raffles and auction items too! Questions, phone 412-466-3578. FLEA MARKET, BAKE SALE, AND BASKET RAFFLE - Holy Spirit Church, Oakland (Pittsburgh), Saturday, April 25, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Household goods, books, home decor and more, plus homemade baked goods, and a basket raffle to be drawn April 26. Prizes include spirits and wines, cultural venues, restaurants, lottery tickets and sports. www.holyspiritchurchpgh.org SPAGHETTI DINNER - The Slavjane Folk Ensemble of Holy Ghost Church, McKees Rocks, Pa. will host a Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser on Sunday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Holy Ghost School Hall, 225 Olivia Street, McKees Rocks. Dinner for adults $10; children 12 and under $5. Take-out available. Vitajte! Welcome all! NITE AT THE RACES - Sponsored by St. John the Baptist Cathedral Cameo Club, 210 Greentree Road Friday May 1. Admission $10, includes pasta dinner, beverage (beer, soda), BYOB and snacks. Purchase a horse for $10. Doors open at 6 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., races 7:45 -10:00 p.m. Call Ernie 412-462-3787. Reserved tables for 8 or more. Last day to purchase tickets and horses is April 26. SUPER SATURDAY SALE - St. Pius X Church, 2336 Brownsville Rd. Carrick, Pa. 15210 Saturday May 2. Flea Market will be held in the church basement 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Craft and Vendor show will be held in the church auditorium from 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. The day includes ethnic food, baked goods, and a Chinese auction. Questions, call the church at 412-881-8344. SPRING FASHION SHOW - The CAMEO Club of St. John’s Cathedral Presents “May Flowers’” a spring fashion show featuring “Phyllis’ Fashions” of White Oak Sunday, May 17 at St. John’s Center 210 Greentree Road, Munhall. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. Salad Buffet Luncheon at noon. Spring Fling Auction, 50/50, Raffles. Tickets: $25. Phyllis’ clothing & accessories will be available for purchase. For more information or to purchase tickets call Carol 412-464-1666.
dates to remember april 19 100th Anniversary Parish Celebration St. George Church - Aliquippa, Pa. april 26 Very Rev. Archpriest Eugene Yackanich 50th Anniversary St. John Cathedral and Center - Munhall, Pa. april 29 ‘From Conflict to Communion’ ecumenical event St. Paul Seminary - Crafton, Pa. may 7 Annual Seminary Lecture St. John Cathedral Center - Munhall, Pa. may 10 Ordination of Deacon Donald Bolls to the Presbyterate St. John Cathedral - Munhall, Pa. Mother’s Day may 14 Feast of the Ascension of our Lord CHANCERY CLOSED See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org
the byzantine catholic world