the official newspaper of the archeparchy of pittsburgh
come and pray
Schedule for the 81st Annual Pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Page 3
Inside
Two centuries of service sisters celebrate 70 , 60 th
th
jubilees
by Sister Margaret Kapusnak, OSBM
for the gift of the fidelity of these three sisters. This joy continued during the festive meal following, a time which is always punctuated by a lot of laughter and reminiscing. Sister Martha Elizabeth Moyta entered the Sisters of St. Basil from Holy Ghost Parish, North Side Pittsburgh, Pa. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from College Misericordia in Dallas, Pa., and a Master of Science degree in Religious Education from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, Pa. Sister Martha Elizabeth spent almost 25 years in elementary education before being assigned to the Diocesan Religious Education Office in Pittsburgh, Pa. During her years in this ministry, Sister Martha worked with others on the “God With Us”
family fun, times 95 Another memorable Byzantine Catholic Family Day at 95th event in Pittsburgh’s Kennywood Park Page 9
sunday, august 16, 2015
seminary alive
Center of learning and spirituality offers virtual and actual opportunities Page 11
‘Final step’ toward holy Diaconate for three men
candidates ordained to minor orders at cathedral by archbishop william
Nick Havrilla, Sr.
UNIONTOWN — In this year 2015, called for by Pope Francis as the Year of Consecrated Life, jubilees are an opportunity for all of the Sisters of Saint Basil the Great to thank God for the gift of their vocation. After two days of presentations and discussion during their annual Community Days in mid-July, the Basilian Sisters paused to honor three of their own celebrating significant years of religious dedication. Celebrating their 70th Anniversary of religious life were Sister Martha Elizabeth Moyta and Sister Leocadia Sevachko; celebrating her 60th Anniversary was Sister Barbara Swindells. The hallmark of every such celebration is the Divine Liturgy of Thanksgiving offered for the intentions of the Jubilarians. Joyful voices were raised in praise and thanksgiving
vol. 60 no. 11
Standing in humility before Metropolitan Archbishop William are subdeacons Jeffrey Mierzejewski, Brian Norrell and Gary Stafford, who received the Mystery of Ordination to Minor Orders and Subdiaconate at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. Sunday, July 19.
Jubilees continued on page 3
Sister Barbara Swindells, Sister Leocadia Sevachko, and Sister Martha Moyta radiate the joy of their Jubilee celebration following the Divine Liturgy of Thanksgiving at the Sisters of St. Basil Monastery Chapel in Uniontown, Pa.
Ordained to Minor Orders Sunday, July 19 at The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. were Jeffrey Mierzejewski (St. Elias Church, Munhall, Pa.), Brian Norrell (St. Basil the Great Church, Irving, Texas) and Gary Stafford (St. Basil the Great Church, Irving, Texas). The three are part of a group of men who began their journey toward the Holy Diaconate in the summer of 2011 when they entered the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh’s Deacon Formation Program at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius. Metropolitan William C. Skurla ordained the men during the celebration of the Divine Liturgy before an assembly of family, friends and faithful. Concelebrants included Very Rev. Archpriest Eugene P. Yackanich and
Seminary Rector Very Rev. Robert M. Pipta; also present were Very Rev. Archpriest and Cathedral Rector Dennis M. Bogda, who also is the Archeparchy’s Syncellus for Clergy, and Protosyncellus Very Rev. Andrew J. Deskevich, who acted as Master of Ceremonies. Assistentia included Subdeacon Bohdan Savula and Seminarian Svyatoslav Zadorozhniy (Eparchy of Mukachevo) and Martin Bovee (Cathedral). The Archieparchial Choir under the direction of Darlene Fejka led the responses. A dinner reception at the Cathedral Center followed the ordination services. Subdeacons Jeffrey, Brian and Gary now await announcement of the dates of their impending ordinations to the Diaconate. n More photos and overview of this service appear on pages 4 & 5
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NEWS from the USCCB washington, d.c. www.usccb.org 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).
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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.
Cardinal O’Malley Urges Support for Senate Bill to Defund Planned Parenthood
CCEE Subcommittee awards $5M
WASHINGTON — Federal funds should be reallocated so women can obtain their health care from providers that do not promote abortion, Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley, archbishop of Boston, said in an August 3 letter to the U.S. Senate. Cardinal O’Malley, who chairs the Committee on Pro-Life Activities of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, urged support for S. 1881, which would withhold federal funds from the Planned Parenthood Federation of America and its affiliates. The full text of his letter follows and also is available online: http:// bit.ly/defundpp832015
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Subcommittee on Aid to the Church in Central and Eastern Europe (CCEE) approved 177 grants totaling more than $5.2 million in aid to finance pastoral, educational, and construction projects in Central and Eastern Europe. Funding for these grants comes from the annual Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe. The projects focus on providing scholarships; rebuilding churches, schools, and orphanages; programs for youth and children; and outreach to the poor. The projects will be implemented in 23 countries, covering a geographical area spanning Eastern Europe into Central Asia. The Subcommittee evaluated and approved grant proposals on June 9 during the bishops’ annual spring General Assembly in St. Louis, Missouri. “Recovery from Soviet rule in Central and Eastern Europe has been a slow and challenging process,” said Archbishop Blase J. Cupich of Chicago, chairman of the Subcommittee on Aid to the Church in Central and Eastern Europe. “Catholics in this area are in great need of our help. The Church is doing much to support the rebuilding not only of the churches and structures, but also the lives of individuals both spiritually and physically.” Caritas Georgia received a grant to support its soup kitchen in Tbilisi, Georgia, where they provide food for poor families, children, individuals with mental and physical disabilities, and internally displaced persons. The soup kitchen serves 194 people daily. In Kazakhstan, in the Diocese of Astana, the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate have provided food, clothing and medicine to the poor since 2006. Their ministry has more than doubled and now assist about 120 people in need. This grant will ensure that they continue providing those services, plus coal and firewood
August 3, 2015 Dear Senator: I am writing to ask your support for S. 1881, to withhold federal funds from the Planned Parenthood Federation of America and its affiliates. It has long been troubling to many Americans that the nation’s largest abortion network, performing over a third of all abortions, receives over half a billion taxpayer dollars a year. This concern has rightly grown in recent years. The most recent revelations about Planned Parenthood’s willingness to traffic in fetal tissue from abortions, and to alter abortion methods not for any reason related to women’s health but to obtain more “intact” organs, is the latest demonstration of a callousness toward women and their unborn children that is shocking to many Americans. The Catholic Church comes to this issue from a perspective rooted in experience. Catholic charitable agencies and pregnancy help centers have helped countless pregnant women find life-affirming alternatives to abortion. Our hospitals and other health facilities are second to none in providing quality health care for women. We support the legislative proposal to reallocate federal funding, so that women can obtain their health care from providers that do not promote abortion. It is my sincere hope that you will be able to help advance this goal by supporting S. 1881. n
O’Malley: Planned Parenthood’s work reflects ‘Throwaway Culture’ decried by Pope Francis WASHINGTON — Cardinal Seán O’Malley, OFM Cap., archbishop of Boston and chairman of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), responded, July 29, to recent videos showing leaders from Planned Parenthood discussing the provision of fetal organs, tissues, and body parts from their abortion clinics. Full text of Cardinal O’Malley’s statement follows: Pope Francis has called abortion the product of a “widespread mentality of profit, the throwaway culture, which has today enslaved the hearts and minds of so many.” The recent news stories concerning Planned Parenthood direct our attention to two larger issues involving many institutions in our society. The first is abortion itself: a direct attack on human life in its most vulnerable condition. The second is the now standard practice of obtaining fetal organs and tissues though abortion. Both actions fail to respect the humanity and dignity of human life. This fact should be the center of attention in the present public controversy. If the Planned Parenthood news coverage has caused anyone to experience revived trauma from their own involvement in abortion, be assured that any and all persons will be welcomed with compassion and assistance though the Church’s post-abortion healing ministry, Project Rachel. If you or someone you know would like confidential, nonjudgmental help, please visit www.projectrachel.com. n the byzantine catholic world
CCEE continued on page 12
SUNDAY AUGUST 16, 2015
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PILGRIMAGE 2015
‘Mary, Model of Consecrated Life’ SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
THE SISTERS OF ST. BASIL NEED YOU! WHEN: Saturday, August 22 – 9:30 am WHAT:
“Pilgrimage Prep Day”
WHY:
In preparation for 2015 Pilgrimage
WHERE: Mount St. Macrina - Trinity Center WHO:
Everyone who loves to help!
Call 724-438-7149 for more information on how you may help beautify the grounds of The Mount for Pilgrimage 2015! the byzantine catholic world
Jubilees
continued from page 1 catechetical series, for which her expertise was methodology. Following her years in religious education both in the Pittsburgh Archeparchy and the Eparchy of Parma, Sister Martha moved on to pastoral ministry in St. Therese parish in St. Petersburg, Fla. before retiring to the monastery at Mount St. Macrina. Sister Leocadia Sevachko entered the Sisters of St. Basil from St. Nicholas parish in Youngstown, Ohio. She received her Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Carlow College (now Carlow University) in Pittsburgh, Pa., and her Master of Science in Education from LaSalle University in Philadelphia, Pa. Sister Leocadia’s teaching assignments spanned 57 years in elementary education. Her assignments also included a number of years when she served as both teacher and principal. The first to enter the community, Sister Leocadia has the distinction of being one of three familial sisters - along with Sister Dorothy, now deceased, and Sister Bernarda - in community. With Sister Bernarda, Sister Leocadia continues to serve in catechetical and parish ministry in the five parishes in the greater Youngstown area. Sister Barbara Swindells entered the community from St. Mary Church in Chicago, Ill. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education in 1968 from Mount Mercy College in Pittsburgh, Pa., and a Master of Arts in History from John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio. For 23 years, Sister Barbara’s energy was devoted to education from the elementary level through high school, at times serving as principal or assistant principal. Following these years, Sister Barbara engaged in ministry in the Religious Education Office of the Archeparchy as well as in the Eparchy of Van Nuys (now Phoenix). She was elected to the Provincial Council in 2000 and was re-elected to a second five-year term. Presently Sister Barbara is the Administrator of Mount St. Macrina Cemetery and Mausoleum, a position she has held since 2001. For the combined 200 years of faithful service, warm congratulations were offered to the Jubilarians by Sister Ruth Plante, Provincial, and by all the Sisters of St. Basil. May God grant them many more spiritually fruitful, happy and blessed years! n
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Minor Orders: First steps toward the Holy Diaconate The one to be ordained a candle-bearer is led by the archdeacon to the middle of the church and there makes three bows towards the altar. Then approaching the Metropolitan, he bows his head. The Metropolitan signs him on the head in the form of a cross three times and then he lays his hand on his head and prays. Then the Metropolitan gives a lighted candle to the candidate, who takes it and kisses the candle and the hand of the Metropolitan. To prove their worthiness to become readers, each candidate is required to chant troparia and kontakia as well as an apostolic reading. The Metropolitan gives the Book of Epistles to the candidate, who, upon receiving it, kisses the book and the Metropolitan’s right hand. The candidate proceeds to the center of the church. Then the candidate approaches to receive tonsure. Taking the scissors, the Metropolitan cuts a small portion of the candidate’s hair in the form of a cross saying: “The hair of the head of the servant of God (name) is cut in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.” Then the Metropolitan places the short phelonion on the candidate and signs his head three times with his hand in the form of a cross and recites the prayer: “Lord God Almighty, choose this your servant (name) and sanctify him, grant that he may teach and read your divine word with wisdom and understanding, and keep his life blameless. Through the mercy and kindness and the love of us all of your only-begotten Son, with whom you are blessed, together with your all-holy, good, and life-creating Spirit, now and ever, and forever.” After the reading and Alleluia verse, the candidate bows to the Metropolitan. The subdeacons present divest him of the phelonion, and lead him to the Metropolitan, and again the Metropolitan signs on the head three times with his hand. They bring the sticharion to the Metropolitan. He then blesses it with his hand and lays it over the left arm of the lector. The Lector makes the sign of the cross and kisses the cross on the sticharion and the Metropolitan’s hand. The subdeacons present then vest him in the sticharion. The Metropolitan now gives this instruction: “Son, the order of lector is the first step to the priesthood. As you read the Holy Scriptures, strive for virtue day by day so that those who hear you and observed you, may do the same. Never allow anything to disgrace the order you have received as you await a higher order. Live peacefully in righteousness and holiness and you will win favor with God and be advanced to a higher ministry, through Christ our Lord. All glory, honor and worship belong to him, together with his eternal Father and all-holy, good and life-creating Spirit, now and ever. Amen.” The Metropolitan then proclaims: The servant of God, (name) has become a lector for the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and forever. Amen. Axios! (he is worthy). When the ordination to the subdiaconate takes place within the same service as other minor orders, then, after vesting the candidate with the sticharion, the Metropolitan vests him with the subdiaconal orarion (cincture). He makes the sign of the cross over it, and the candidate kisses the cincture and the hand of the Metropolitan, who then vests him with it. The Metropolitan then signs the head of the candidate three times. Then a basin, water and a towel are brought forward. The Metropolitan first takes the towel and places it on the shoulders of the newly-ordained. He then gives the basin to the subdeacon, who kisses the basin, the pitcher with water and the hand of the Metropolitan. The new subdeacon then washes the Metropolitan’s hands, saying three times: “All the faithful.” The Metropolitan thus washes his hands, imparts a blessing with his hand, covers the entire head of the newly-ordained with the towel, and orders him to be led to the appointed place (which at this ordination is before the iconostas). At the Cherubicon, the subdeacon, carrying a basin, a pitcher and a towel, approaches the royal doors to the Metropolitan; the Metropolitan washes his hands according to the order of the Liturgy and says the prayer of the washing of hands. At the Great Entrance the newly-ordained subdeacon follows the other ministers. When the Metropolitan says: “And may the mercies...” he is led into the sanctuary, receives the blessing of the Metropolitan and now stands with the other subdeacons. Source: The Order of Candle-Bearer, Reader and Cantor The Order of Ordination to the Subdiaconate Metropolitan Church of Pittsburgh
photos by Nick Havrilla, Sr. the byzantine catholic world
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front row: Rev. Vasyl Banyk ; Rev. Mykhaylo Shkynda ; Subdeacon Jeffrey Mierzejewski; Very Rev. Robert M. Pipta; Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla; Very Rev. Archpriest Eugene P. Yackanich; Subdeacon Brian Norrell; Rev. Donald Bolls; Rev. Michael Huszti. back row: Subdeacon Bohdan Savula; Very Rev. James Spontak; Seminarian Sviatoslav Zadorozhniy; Deacon Stephen Casmus; Rev. James Ragan; Very Rev. Archpriest Dennis M. Bogda; Rev. Vasyl Symyon; Subdeacon Gary Stafford; Martin Bovee; Very Rev. Ronald Larko.
May God grant to his servants
Subdeacon Jeffrey Subdeacon Brian and Subdeacon Gary peace, health and happiness for many blessed years!
AXIOS! the byzantine catholic world
parish news PAGE 6
SUNDAY AUGUST 16, 2015
Perry-O’s Mamas & Papas
parish honors its matriarchs, patriarchs Moms and Dads are always honored throughout the year for the tireless work that they do for their children, but on no days more so than Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. St. Nicholas Church in Perryopolis, Pa. did just that when on Sunday May 10 and Sunday June 21 they, along with their pastor Father Robert Halus, saluted with love and admiration all of the mothers and fathers of the parish during special breakfasts in honor of those special days. n
August
September St. Gregory Nazianzus Church Upper St. Clair, Pa.
St. Michael Church Campbell, OH EVENT: Parish Picnic* DATE: Sun. Aug. 16 TIME: 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm INFO: Rev. Kevin Marks 330-755-4831 Annette Hospodar 330-540-4334 Ethnic foods and music, games for kids and adults!
St. Michael Church Hermitage, PA EVENT: Parish Picnic* DATE: Sun. Aug. 23 TIME: 12:00 noon - 5:00 pm INFO: Rev. Kevin Marks 724-981-6680
Homemade holupky, pirohy, and other ethnic foods; music, games, bounce house and slide, crafts.
EVENT: Parish Picnic* DATE: Sun. Sept. 13 TIME: 11:30 a.m. INFO: Rev. Valerian Michlik 412-835-7800
Good food and music, BINGO, children’s games and activities.
SS. Peter & Paul Church Erie, PA EVENT: Slavic Festival DATE: Sunday, Sept. 20 TIME: Noon to 7:00 p.m. INFO: Rectory 814-825-8140 Richard Vasil 814-864-6136
Ethnic foods (eat-in or take-out); bake sale; live polka music and dancing; gift basket raffles; cash prize drawings; unique gift shop; church tours.
* PLEASE NOTE * “Parish PICNIC” = parish-only “Parish FESTIVAL” = open to the public Listings provided by pastors/churches of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh.
For more information, contact Sr. Susan at srsusanosbm@verizon.net
BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY view liturgical services (various times) streamed LIVE online at:
Photos from top: Parish members happily wait to be served their Mother’s Day breakfast. Men of St. Nicholas parish prepare breakfast for parish mothers. Monica Bednar and France Kranik uncover the goodies for Father’s Day Breakfast. Church members enjoy their Father’s Day breakfast treat. photos by Carol Ann Hamilla and John Markinack
the byzantine catholic world
St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa. www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com Holy Ghost Church, McKees Rocks www.holyghost-byzantinecatholic.org St. John Chrysostom Church, Pittsburgh, Pa. www.sjcbcc.com
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parish news
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‘Son’day in the Park
clymer, ernest parishes’ 4th annual picnic by Father William Lascelles
The Church offers you an incredible opportunity to build relationships built by God. So live your life in the Church with love and compassion! Saint Anne Church (Clymer, Pa.), Saint Jude Thaddeus Church (Ernest, Pa.) and Greek Catholic Union (GCU) members from the area gathered once again at scenic Blue Spruce Park, Indiana County for their 4th Annual picnic on Sunday the 5th of July. The weather could not have been more cooperative for the outdoor Divine Liturgy, meal and many activities and best of all, fellowship. The picnic is not a fund raiser; rather, it is enjoying the day in Christian fellowship. Over 100 folks gathered for enthusiastic Worship at 10 a.m. The awesome singing echoed over the lake, with even the water fowl voicing approval. There were tables upon tables of gift baskets and prizes for all age groups that were lovingly prepared and generously donated. Activities and good times abounded for young folks - and those not so young.
What can be said for this menu, other than fantastic: pulled pork, halushky, holupky, meatballs, deep fried chicken, baked beans with Polish sausage, kolbassy with sauerkraut, salads, delicious desserts and much more. Sincere gratitude to benefactors and to the GCU for their generosity. A very astute and accurate observation was made at the picnic by a respectful gentleman who marveled at the parish organization, the dedication and hard work, and the spirit of generosity. n photos by Renee Vargo
Swing low, sweet chariots - and golf clubs . . .
faithful of st. gregory church in upper st. clair pa. get cars blessed and hit the links
by Father Valerian Michlik
In anticipation of the feast of the holy prophet Elijah (July 20), the blessing of vehicles (cars, trucks, bicycles, etc.) took place on Saturday and Sunday, July 18-19, at St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church in Upper St. Clair, Pa. It was a very hot weekend in Pittsburgh, but our faithful patiently waited to have their cars blessed on this special occasion. In our venerable tradition we honor the glorious prophet Elijah as the patron saint of vehicles, since he was taken into heaven on a fiery chariot. The 2015 St. Gregory’s Golf Outing was held on Sunday, Aug. 2 at the Scenic Valley Golf Course in Finleyville, Pa. We were truly blessed this year with perfect weather. The combination of sunshine and a nice breeze was the perfect recipe for all participants to “hit the links” this year. At the end of the day, we all enjoyed a wonderful barbecue together, during which we enjoyed each other’s fellowship. Thanks to all who worked hard to make this outing a great success! Also much appreciated is the financial support of the Greek Catholic Union (GCU). Last, but certainly not least, we thank the golfers and volunteers who supported this worthwhile event. n
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‘Issues Facing the Modern Family’ is focus of new educational series bethany ministry of st. gregory church partners with health professionals to present 2-part series The world is changing, and individuals and families are facing new challenges. As a faith community, the Bethany Ministry of St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church is reaching out and offering an opportunity to learn about problems that exist in today’s world as well as in our local comminities. Surely many may believe or say “oh no, not in my community” - never thinking that any relationship, violence, drug or alcohol issues every would happen to them. ANYONE COULD BE A VICTIM! Relationship violence takes many forms and can happen occasionally or frequently. Victims can be of any age, sex, race, culture, religion, education, employment or marital status. Do you really know “What’s cooking in your neighborhood?” Could there actually be a “meth” lab on your street? Find out the latest information on drug and alcohol uses and addiction. Alcohol, drug, and other addiction-related issues have been present since the beginning of civilization. However the world has changed and so have drugs and the addictions which follow their abuse. Kids are using drugs and alcohol at a much younger age, while their bodies and brains are still developing and thus more vulnerable to the drugs’ harmful effects. What do you know about
“process addition” a behavioral addiction which usually does not involve an addictive chemical? Do you know someone who has a compulsive behavior or addiction to activities such as gambling, eating, shopping, working, sex, or social media? Process addictions are often an overlooked addiction. They too can cause suffering, loss of life and family, or other debillitaing consequences. If these topics interest or even concern you, please join St. Gregory’s Bethany Ministry and the experts from Allegheny Medical / Integrated Health Services to discuss these issues: Relationship Violence Part 1 Thursday, Sept.3 at 7:00pm Part 2 Thursday, Sept.17 at 7:00pm Addictions Part 1 Tuesday Oct. 6 at 7:00pm Part 2 Tuesday, Oct. 20 at 7:00pm There is no cost to attend these sessions, which will be held at St. Gregory Church Hall, 2005 Mohawk Road (Brookside Farms), Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 For more information about this series, call 412494-4550. For directions call 412-835-7800 or visit www. stgregoryusc.org. n
Byzantine Radio Ministry reaches out to shut-ins, evangelizes via Internet The Byzantine Divine Liturgy is broadcast live from Holy Ghost Church in McKees Rocks, Pa. every Sunday at 9:00 a.m. over WEDO Radio 810-AM and via the Internet at www.holyghostbyzantinecatholic.org (click on the “Listen Live” link on main page). Holy Ghost pastor Father Frank Firko is the usual celebrant with occasional guest celebrants. Contributions to help sustain this vital ministry are most welcome and needed year-round. Checks of support should be made payable to the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh and sent to: Chancery | 66 Riverview Avenue | Pittsburgh, PA 15214 ATTN: Radio Liturgy Ministry
WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES 2015 PHILADELPHIA http://www.worldmeeting2015.org/
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‘Go Philadelphia!’
world meeting of families 2015 and ibm launch new mobile app As the City of Philadelphia prepares to host the 2015 World Meeting of Families and the Papal visit, the World Meeting of Families – Philadelphia 2015 and IBM (NYSE: IBM) announced a new mobile app “Go Philadelphia!” to help hundreds of thousands of visitors and residents navigate the city during this landmark event. The app will provide information about the region’s cultural institutions and familyfriendly events taking place between September 18-29 to accommodate visitors who will arrive early or stay after the Papal visit. With more than 20 categories clustered for easy retrieval, the “Go Philadelphia!” app curates and displays events and attractions on an interactive online map. Visitors have instant access and detailed information about institutions, exhibits, events and attractions, translation services, frequently asked questions, schedules, maps, and more. The app will also give users access to realtime translation and captioning services in eight languages during portions of the Papal
Mass being held on Sunday, Sept. 27. The free app can be downloaded for Android devices and Apple devices. Built and designed in collaboration with the World Meeting of Families – Philadelphia 2015, IBM, and the City of Philadelphia, the “Go Philadelphia!” mobile app will be hosted on IBM’s SoftLayer cloud and will serve as an interactive, digital guide for visitors and locals. “Smartphones have transformed the way we live our lives, especially when attending major events,” said Donna Crilley Farrell, executive director, World Meeting of Families – Philadelphia 2015. “With an innovative and interactive resource at the tips of 1.5 million people’s fingers, it will undoubtedly enhance the visitor experience during the World Meeting of Families, including the Papal Visit.” The 2015 World Meeting of Families Congress will take place from September 22 – 25. More than one million people are expected for a Papal Mass during the visit of Pope Francis (Sept. 27). n
Co-sponsored by the Holy See’s Pontifical Council for the Family and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the World Meeting of Families is a triennial global event that seeks to strengthen the sacred bonds of family across the globe and highlight its intrinsic value to the good of society. This international gathering will welcome Pope Francis to the United States for the first time in his Papacy. Being held in the United States for the first time ever, the official theme for the 2015 World Meeting of Families is “Love is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive.” For more information regarding the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia, visit www.WorldMeeting2015.
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95th Annual Byzantine Catholic Family Day kennywood park in suburban pittsburgh scene of another memorable event The day of family fun began in the cool morning and continued well past sunset at Kennywood Park, site of the 95th Annual Byzantine Catholic Family Day. After Metropolitan William celebrated the traditional prayer service at the large pavilion stage with responses led by Father Andrew Deskevich and Father Michael Huszti, and following a performance by the Slavjane Folk Ensemble in a proud and energetic display of the ethnic heritage of many in attendance, lunch was served in the “double-decker” picnic pavilion nearby. Park mascot Kenny Kangaroo even paid a special visit to the lunch pavilion, to the delight of both clergy and faithful who enjoyed the picnic-style fare. The weather was pictureperfect, with pleasant temperatures to match. Co-sponsor of the event, the Greek Catholic Union was on hand to meet and greet attendees and to conduct the ever-popular bingo and children’s games following lunch. Capping the excitement for the day was the fearless trio of Father Andrew, Patty Bovee (St. John Cathedral, Munhall) and Mary Kacsur (Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks), who took their nowtraditional daredevil plunge from the soaring heights of the park’s “Skycoaster” ride. n
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thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras
the mystery of the incarnation There is no doubt that the Incarnation is a mystery. As the inner life of life, as life after death, o this is beyond our comprehension. We can make both divine and human statements about Christ. This is especially seen in the Church teaching of Mary as “Theotokos,” the “birth-giver of God.” Mary obviously does not give birth to the divine nature, but she does give birth to a divine person, Jesus, Son of God and Son of Man. Because Jesus is God, we can call Mary the “Mother of God.” However, we cannot attribute the properties of the divine nature to the human nature. Jesus died on the Cross as a mortal human being, we cannot say that God died. What is important for our faith is that Jesus is a complete human being - he was born, he had a soul and a free will, he died, he could be seen with our mortal eyes. Indeed, he is more a human being than any of us, as the Council of Chalcedon proclaimed, “perfect in divinity and perfect in humanity.” I make a point of this because it is still to this day, a bone of contention. Some modern thinkers seem to “pen in” the divinity of Jesus and emphasize how he was a complete human being, like us in every way. There is a merit to this because it makes us closer to Christ and to feel more capable of imitating him, in which lies our salvation. On the other hand, some traditional faithful feel that this denies the reality of Jesus as God. As one retreat director told me, “we must not forget that Jesus is not a human person, he is a divine person.” This is, of course, true as far as it goes, because Jesus is one person. At the same time, it feels close to the Appolinarian heresy, which held that Jesus had a human body and a human sensitive soul, but no human rational mind, which was replaced by
the divine Logos. This was condemned in Canon 7 of the Council of Rome in 381: “We pronounce anathema against them who say that the Word of God is in the human flesh in lieu and place of the human rational and intellective soul. For, the Word of God is the Son Himself. Neither did he come in the flesh to replace,
The basic fact is that Jesus is “perfect God and perfect man.” . . . He is Life, and in him we find life. but rather to assume and preserve from sin and save the rational and intellective soul of man.” Jesus was not the shell of a human being in which the divine spirit rattled around, because “whatever is assumed is saved.” We cannot be saved unless God takes on the entire human nature. This does not, nor could it, compromise his being as God. The apostles, the eyewitnesses of Jesus’ incarnation and resurrection, saw the divine nature in Jesus. St. John puts it most eloquently, “What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we looked upon, and touched with our hands concerns the Word of life — for the life was made visible; we have seen it and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was made visible to us.” (1 John 1:1-2) They experienced the power of the divinity of Jesus - in the cure of the woman with a hemorrhage, Jesus says that power has gone out from him. They saw the healings that took place in the presence of Jesus, and they saw even his mastery of the seas and winds. The divine glory was especially revealed in the mystery of the
Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1–9; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28–36; 2 Peter 1:16–18). The liturgy observes, “You were transfigured in glory on Mount Tabor, O Christ our God, and you showed your disciples the glory of your divinity” (Litija stichera). This was connected with the Resurrection: “In this way, you showed the reality of the resurrection you are to grant to us.” (Stichera at Psalm 140) This intuition that the Apostles had was by divine inspiration. When Peter becomes aware and confesses that Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God, Jesus tells him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father.” (Matthew 16:17) St. John also gives us a valuable insight in the question asked by Phillip, “Philip said to him, ‘Master, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us.’ Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” (John 14:8-9) The apostles were witnesses that the man Jesus is the Son of God, and that he is risen from the dead. This was their mission, at his Ascension Jesus tells them, “you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) The first act of Peter is to choose a disciple to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the twelve, explaining, “it is necessary that one of the men who accompanied us the whole time the Lord Jesus came and went among us ... become with us a witness to his resurrection.” (Acts 1:21-22) The basic fact is that Jesus is “perfect God and perfect man.” Of course, God is perfect by definition. The human being, however, is not. Jesus, though, was the perfect human being, in this way distinguished from all of us. He is Life, and in him we find life. It is important, then, as St. Paul said, “ ... yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives
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in me; insofar as I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God who has loved me and given himself up for me.” (Galatians 2:20) This is also expressed by the phrase based on Scripture, (Hebrews 4:15), that Jesus was “like us in every way except sin.” This basic teaching was expressed by the Vatican II Council, he “labored with human hands, thought with a human mind, acted with a human will, and loved with a human heart. Born of Mary the Virgin he truly became one of us and, sin apart, was like us in every way.” (Gaudium et Spes 22) The problem is that this mystery is incomprehensible to our experience and we cannot imagine it. St. John Paul II said, “He truly experienced human feelings of joy, sadness, anger, wonder and love.” The Lord is “one person,” but he has all the qualities that make up a human person, conceived not as another discrete “concretely existing reality,” but having soul, mind, thought, emotion, feelings, place in community and in time and space, bodily limitations, goals, temptations, a face (prosôpon, which can also mean “particular individual,” or “person”) that can be depicted in icons (“images”), etc. This is important, because whatever of human nature that the Son of God assumed is saved, and is brought to the future resurrection, but with the destruction of sin. n
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Byzantine Catholic Seminary AUGUST 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!
‘Come And See’
byzantine catholic seminary to host retreat of discovery oct 16-18 The Byzantine Catholic Seminary of Saints Cyril and Methodius is pleased to host the “Come and See” Retreat of Discovery Friday Oct. 16 through Sunday Oct. 18, 2015. Invited to this retreat are men ages 18 to 35, single or married, who may be considering a vocation to the priesthood within the Byzantine Catholic Church. The atmosphere will be prayerful, positive, and fraternal. Every young man eventually has to make some hard decisions – college, career, marriage, family, religious life. How do you know what’s right? Does God care what you decide? Do you have to give up everything to serve the Church? What questions do you have about the priesthood? “Come and See” will help you answer these questions and more as you witness a seminarian’s life of prayer, labor, and joy! “Come and See” is a retreat weekend hosted by the Byzantine Catholic Seminary (BCS) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The retreat includes sharing liturgical services and meals
with the Seminary community and an introduction to the Seminary formation program. It will also include a tour of the Seminary, gatherings with the seminarians, witness talks, and guided reflections on discernment – how to listen to God’s plans for your future and your happiness. There is no charge for the retreat, meals, and lodging. More information can be found at the Seminary’s website www. bcs.org. Founded by God’s grace in 1950, the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius, the official seminary of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Church of Pittsburgh, USA is open to all North American Eastern Catholic Eparchies, and welcomes all those seeking advanced knowledge of the Eastern ecclesial traditions. As a school of theology, the BCS is authorized by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. The Seminary has operated as a non-profit 501(c)(3)
(R) = Ruthenian tradition
(M) = Melkite tradition
3605 Perrysville Avenue | Pittsburgh, PA 15214 | www.bcs.edu
organization, incorporated in Pennsylvania, and governed by a Board of Directors under the leadership of the Metropolitan of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh. As an Eastern Christian Center of Learning, the Seminary will continue to prepare men for priestly ministry, and also serve as a center for all others interested in theology, spirituality, liturgy, and scripture. Questions? Call the Seminary Office 412-321-8383 or e-mail office@bcs.edu. n
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The Sisters of St. Basil the Great invite you to experience the 81st Annual
PILGRIMAGE IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP Saturday & Sunday September 5 & 6 Mount St. Macrina Uniontown, PA
during the harsh wintertime. The Subcommittee also approved nearly $520,000 in scholarship grants for 68 students from Central and Eastern Europe. These scholarships are provided for priests, religious, and lay people to continue their education, typically at the doctoral level. After they complete their studies, they return to their local parishes to serve the pastoral needs of their home communities. “I am grateful for all who have so generously contributed to this collection,” said Archbishop Cupich. “Your support makes these grants possible. There is a great need, and your prayers, along with your financial support go a long way to strengthen the Church in this area and provide a foundation to build upon for future generations.” The Subcommittee on Aid to the Church in Central and Eastern Europe oversees the Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe as part of the USCCB Committee on National Collections. The national date for this collection is on Ash Wednesday. However, some dioceses take it up at other times during the year. More information on the work of the Subcommittee is available online www.usccb. org/ccee. n
around the archeparchy FLEA MARKET & BAKE SALE – Holy Spirit Church, Pittsburgh (Oakland), will hold a Flea Market and Bake Sale on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the church hall. Items include housewares, clothing, books, and more at great prices! Lunch items also will be available for purchase. RUMMAGE SALE – St. Pius X Church, 2336 Brownsville Road in Carrick, Pa. will hold its Annual Rummage Sale on Saturday Sept. 12 in the church basement from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Baked goods and other foods will be sold throughout the day. Organizers are still in need of rummage items for this sale; donations are much appreciated and will be accepted at the church through August (please call first). For more information, call 412-881-8344. CHAMPAGNE LUNCH & BINGO – St. Elias Byzantine Catholic Church, 4200 Homestead-Duquesne Road, Munhall, Pa. will hold a “Champagne Lunch & Bingo” on Sunday, Sept. 20 in the parish Social Hall. Seating is limited and all seats are reserved. Advance tickets required – so please buy your tickets early. Donation of $35 includes lunch and a bingo packet with 9 cards for regular games and specials, and 3 for the Jackpot. Prizes range from $75 (regular) to $250 (“Round Robin”); Jackpot is $1,100. Additional regular game packets are available for purchase. Doors open at 11:00 a.m.; lunch from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 p.m.; early birds begin at 1:15 p.m.; regular games begin at 1:30 p.m. There will be two 5-minute intermissions. Lunch includes “champagne drink,” cheese & crackers, fruit, salad, chicken, Swedish meatballs, potatoes, vegetable, dessert, coffee and soda. There also will be a “Chinese” auction, door prizes and Vera Bradley handbag raffles. For tickets, call 412-635-6104. FALL BINGO – St. Nicholas Church, 624 East Pittsburgh Street, Greensburg, PA 15601 will hold a Fall Bingo in the church Social Hall on Sunday, Sept. 27 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Doors will open at 12:30 p.m. Admission: $5 per person. Tickets may be purchased at the door. There will be regular bingos, quickie bingos, a “Chinese” Auction, 50/50 raffle, and several Food Basket raffles. Grocery Gift Cards will be issued to the winners of the regular bingos. Ethnic foods (halushky & pirohy) will be sold to eat before, during and after the bingos. Phone 724-832-8122 for questions or information. GYPSY CONCERT LIVE – Saturday, Aug. 29 - Doors open at 7:00pm, concert at 8:00 pm. $15 per person at door. George Batyi Gypsy Band featuring Alex Udvary on cimbalom, a night of outstanding music by the best and most talented Roma musicians in the U.S. Presented at the Bulgarian-Macedonian Cultural Center, 449 W. 8th Ave. in West Homestead, Pa.
dates to remember august 20 ‘Faith & Fun Day’ for Archieparchial Altar Servers august 22 Workshop for Catechists and Interested Adults St. John the Baptist Cathedral - Munhall, Pa. september 5 & 6 Pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mount St. Macrina - Uniontown, Pa. september 7 Labor Day - national observance CHANCERY CLOSED september 13 Annual Celebration of Marriage St. Elias Church & Social Hall - Munhall, Pa. september 14 Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross CHANCERY CLOSED See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org
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Byzantine Catholic Press Associates - The BCW
Official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh
e-mail: bcw@archpitt.org web: www.archpitt.org
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