the official newspaper of the archeparchy of pittsburgh
Inside
sunday april 10, 2016
seminary lecture
parish pascha
year of enrichment
Stimulating theological presentation planned for the institution’s 16th annual event Page 2
Churches of the Archeparchy proclaim “Christ Is Risen!” via liturgical, parochial events Pages 6 & 7
Programs, events designed to bring Byzantine Catholics to spiritual, intellectual renewal Page 9
53rd World Day of Prayer for Vocations April 17 ‘pray the lord of the harvest . . .’
World Day of Prayer for Vocations will be observed on Sunday, April 17 (the third Paschal Sunday (of the Paralytic) in the Byzantine Catholic Church and Good Shepherd Sunday in the Latin churches). The purpose of this day is to publicly fulfill the Lord’s instruction to “pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest” (Mt 9:38; Lk 10:2). Please pray that young men and women hear and respond generously to the Lord’s call to the
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priesthood, diaconate, monastic life, or to associate societies of monastic life and secular institutes which support vocations. Adaptable resources to promote a culture of vocations may be found on the USCCB Vocations web page, www.usccb.org/ vocations and also at www.worlddayofprayerfor vocations.com/. n Turn to page 3 for the Message of Pope Francis forWorld Day of Prayer for Vocations.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month “Our Nation’s enduring commitment to prevent child abuse and neglect demands that individuals and communities partner together to provide safe and nurturing environments for all of America’s daughters and sons. We must all join in the work of uplifting and safeguarding our youngest individuals and ensuring they are limited by nothing but the size of their dreams and the range of their aspirations. This month, let us aim to eradicate child abuse from our society, and let us secure a future for our children that is bright and full of hope, opportunity, and security.” — President Barack Obama from the Presidential Proclamation of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, 2016
“Families need to know that the Church is making every effort to protect their children. They should also know that they have every right to turn to the Church with full confidence, for it is a safe and secure home. Consequently, priority must not be given to any other kind of concern, whatever its nature, such as the desire to avoid scandal, since there is absolutely no place in ministry for those who abuse minors.” — Pope Francis Letter to the Presidents of Episcopal Conferences 2 February 2015 See page 5 for the Archeparchy’s Safe Environment Program Workshops
Choir to present paschal program at the Cathedral
celebrate final paschal sunday, may 1; meet newest priests serving archeparchy MUNHALL — Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla and Cathedral Rector Very Rev. Archpriest Dennis M. Bogda invite the faithful to celebrate the final Sunday of Pascha – May 1, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. – as the Pittsburgh Byzantine Catholic Archieparchial Choir presents a program of paschal songs and readings at St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Cathedral, 210 Greentree Road in Munhall, Pa. Joining the choir will be several of the Archeparchy’s newest priestly servants from the Greek Catholic Eparchy of
Mukachevo in Ukraine, who will offer both vocal renditions and scriptural readings of the paschal season. A special booklet including words and music for many of the paschal songs included on the program will be distributed to the audience so that those in attendance also may add their voices in glorious celebration. A hospitality reception with light refreshments will follow the program in the lower level of the Cathedral, where attendees may meet and greet Archbishop William and the reverend fathers as well as members of the choir. n
pa catholic conference report:
Justice out of balance State lawmakers vote for legislation that could bankrupt Catholic parishes, schools & ministries by A.B. Hill
HARRISBURG – Parish volunteers and employees who work with children know firsthand the measures now in place to protect the children in their care from abuse, including background checks and safe environment training about recognizing and reporting signs of abuse. However, state lawmakers are considering amendments to legislation that could lead to the closure of parishes, schools, and ministries of today’s Catholics, who are in no way responsible for abuse that occurred decades ago. The proposal would retroactively nullify the statute of limitations for filing a civil lawsuit alleging childhood
sexual abuse. It would force parishes, dioceses, schools, and charities to defend cases that are 30, 40, or 50 years old, long after the perpetrator and possible witnesses have died or clear evidence is gone. “Every nonprofit organization is at risk,” says Robert J. O’Hara, Jr., executive director of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference, “Nothing in the proposed Pennsylvania legislation would send any perpetrators to jail. Rather, it will put individual parishes and neighborhood Catholic schools in the firing line for lawsuits that are nearly impossible to defend against.” Justice continued on page 4
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SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
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.
16th Annual Saints Cyril & Methodius Lecture
Chapel at the Seminary of Saints Cyril & Methodius 3605 Perrysville Ave.Pittsburgh, PA 15214 phone: 412-321-8383
www.bcs.edu
Schedule of services - April 2016 Date Day
Time Service
Tradition
4/09
Sat
9am 5pm
Divine Liturgy Great Vespers
Ruthenian Melkite
Lecture at 7:00 pm Reception to follow
4/10
Sun
7am
Festal Matins
Ruthenian
4/11
Mon 8am
Matins
Ruthenian
WHERE: St. John the Baptist
4/12
Tues
7am
Psalm Service K4
Melkite
Cathedral Center 210 Greentree Road Munhall, PA 15120
4/13
Wed
7am
Divine Liturgy
Ruthenian
4/14
Thurs 7am
Sixth Hour
Ruthenian
4/15
Fri
8am 5pm
Divine Liturgy Vespers
Melkite Melkite
PITTSBURGH — Sponsored by the Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius and hosted by St. John Byzantine Catholic Cathedral in Munhall, Pa., the 2016 Seminary Lecture features guest speaker Very Reverend M. Daniel Findikyan. “The Mystery Hidden for Ages: An Eastern, Ecumenical Sacramental Theology” is Father Daniel’s engaging topic. The sacramental synthesis that emerged from scholastic theology in second-millennium Europe represented a turning point in the way the Roman Catholic Church understood its sacramental life. To varying degrees and by diverse pathways the neo-scholastic framework eventually influenced and even shaped the sacramental theology of virtually every Eastern Church, Catholic and Orthodox. Yet ironically, scholastic sacramental theology conflicts sharply with what these churches’ native liturgical rites themselves betray about the sacraments. Father Daniel will address how a careful reading of the sacramental prayers of the various eastern rites reveals the seeds of a common and unmistakable pre-scholastic sacramental theology that is ancient, Biblical, distinctively “eastern,” and consequently of ecumenical significance.
4/16
Sat
9am 5pm
Divine Liturgy Great Vespers
Ruthenian Ruthenian
4/17
Sun
7am
Festal Matins
Ruthenian
4/18
Mon 8am
Matins
Ruthenian
4/19
Tues
6pm
Divine Liturgy
Ruthenian
4/20
Wed
7am
Orthros
Melkite
4/21
Thurs 7pm
Compline
Ruthenian
4/22
Fri
8am 5pm
Divine Liturgy Vespers
Melkite Ruthenian
4/23
Sat
8am 9am 5pm
Festal Matins Divine Liturgy Great Vespers
Ruthenian Ruthenian Melkite
4/24
Sun
7am
Festal Matins
Ruthenian
4/25
Mon 8am
Festal Matins
Ruthenian
4/26
Tues
7am
Psalm Service K5
Melkite
4/27
Wed
7am
Divine Liturgy
Ruthenian
4/28
Thurs 7pm
Compline
Ruthenian
4/29
Fri
8am 5pm
Divine Liturgy Vespers
Melkite Ruthenian
4/30
Sat
9am 5pm
Divine Liturgy Great Vespers
Ruthenian Ruthenian
WHEN: Wednesday, May 11
Very Rev. F a t h e r (Michael) D a n i e l Findikyan, a native of Fort Worth, Texas, is Professor of Liturgical Studies at St. Nersess Armenian Seminary in New Rochelle, N.Y., and Director of the Krikor and Clara Zohrab Information Center of the Diocese of the Armenian Church (Eastern), New York.
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!
Father Daniel earned his doctorate in Liturgical Studies from the Pontifical Oriental Institute in Rome, where he studied under Robert Taft, SJ. He also earned a Master’s degree in musicology from the City University of New York. Father Daniel has published numerous articles in scholarly journals and books, and served as the general editor of the Divine Liturgy book that is used throughout the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America. His latest book is entitled FrequentlyAsked Questions on the Badarak: The Divine Liturgy of the Armenian Church.
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Father Daniel serves as recurring Visiting Professor of Theology at the University of Notre Dame (South Bend, Ind.), and has lectured throughout the United States, as well as in Armenia, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Sweden, Slovakia and Russia. He is Vice President of the Society of Oriental Liturgy and a member of the North American Academy of Liturgy. n
Note: This event is FREE but due to space limitations, registration is required by Friday, April 29. Please register online at www. bcs.edu, call 412-321-8383 or email office@bcs.edu.
SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
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MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS ON THE OCCASION OF THE 53rd WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS The Church, Mother of Vocations Dear Brothers and Sisters, It is my great hope that, during the course of this Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, all the baptized may experience the joy of belonging to the Church and rediscover that the Christian vocation, just like every particular vocation, is born from within the People of God, and is a gift of divine mercy. The Church is the house of mercy, and it is the “soil” where vocations take root, mature and bear fruit. For this reason, on the occasion of the 53rd World Day of Prayer for Vocations, I invite all of you to reflect upon the apostolic community, and to give thanks for the role of the community in each person’s vocational journey. In the Bull of Indiction for the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, I recalled the words of the venerable Saint Bede, describing the call of Saint Matthew: “Miserando atque eligendo” (Misericordiae Vultus, 8). The Lord’s merciful action forgives our sins and opens us to the new life which takes shape in the call to discipleship and mission. Each vocation in the Church has its origin in the compassionate gaze of Jesus. Conversion and vocation are two sides of the same coin, and continually remain interconnected throughout the whole of the missionary disciple’s life. Blessed Paul VI, in his exhortation Evangelii Nuntiandi, described various steps in the process of evangelisation. One of these steps is belonging to the Christian community (cf. no. 23), that community from which we first received the witness of faith and the clear proclamation of the Lord’s mercy. This incorporation into the Christian community brings with it all the richness of ecclesial life, particularly the sacraments. Indeed, the Church is not only a place in which we believe, but it is also an object of our faith; it is for this reason that we profess in the Credo: “I believe in the Church.” The call of God comes to us by means of a mediation which is communal. God calls us to become a part of the Church and, after we have reached a certain maturity within it, he bestows on us a specific vocation. The vocational journey is undertaken together with the brothers and sisters whom the Lord has given to us: it is a con-vocation. The ecclesial dynamism of the call is an antidote to indifference and to individualism. It establishes the communion in which indifference is vanquished by love, because it demands that we go beyond ourselves and place our lives at the service of God’s plan, embracing the historical circumstances of his holy people. On this day dedicated to prayer for vocations, I urge all the faithful to assume their responsibility for the care and discernment of vocations. When the Apostles sought someone to take the place of Judas Iscariot, Saint Peter brought together one hundred and twenty of the brethren (cf. Acts 1:15); and in order to chose seven deacons, a group of disciples was gathered (cf. 6:2). Saint Paul gave Titus specific criteria for the selection of presbyters (cf. Titus 1:5-9). Still today, the Christian community is always present in the discernment of vocations, in their formation and in their perseverance (cf. Apost. Ex. Evangelii Gaudium, 107). Vocations are born within the Church. From the moment a vocation begins to become evident, it is necessary to have an adequate “sense” of the Church. No one is called exclusively for a particular region, or for a group or for an ecclesial movement, but rather for the Church and for the world. “A sure sign of the authenticity of a charism is its ecclesial character, its ability to be integrated harmoniously into the life of God’s holy and faithful people for the good of all” (ibid., 130). In responding to God’s call, young people see their own ecclesial horizon expand; they are able to consider various charisms and to undertake a more objective discernment. In this way, the community becomes the home and the family where vocations are born. Candidates gratefully contemplate this mediation of the community as an essential element for their future. They learn to know and to love their brothers and sisters who pursue paths different from their own; and these bonds strengthen in everyone the communion which they share. Vocations grow within the Church. In the course of formation, candidates for various vocations need to grow in their knowledge of the ecclesial community, overcoming the limited perspectives that we all have at the beginning. To that end, it is helpful to undertake some apostolic experience together with other members of the community, for example: in the company of a good catechist, to communicate the Christian message; together with a religious community, to experience the evangelisation of the peripheries sharing in the life of the cloister, to discover the treasure of contemplation; in contact with missionaries, to know more closely the mission ad gentes; and in the company of diocesan priests, to deepen one’s experience of pastoral life in the parish and in the diocese. For those who are already in formation, the ecclesial community always remains the fundamental formational environment, towards which one should feel a sense of gratitude. Vocations are sustained by the Church. After definitive commitment, our vocational journey within the Church does not come to an end, but it continues in our willingness to serve, our perseverance and our ongoing formation. The one who has consecrated his life to the Lord is willing to serve the Church wherever it has need. The mission of Paul and Barnabas is a good example of this readiness to serve the Church. Sent on mission by the Holy Spirit and by the community of Antioch (cf. Acts 13, 1-4), they returned to that same community and described what the Lord had worked through them (cf. 14: 27). Missionaries are accompanied and sustained by the Christian community, which always remains a vital point of reference, just as a visible homeland offers security to all who are on pilgrimage towards eternal life. Among those involved in pastoral activity, priests are especially important. In their ministry, they fulfil the words of Jesus, who said: “I am the gate of the sheepfold […] I am the good shepherd” (Jn 10: 7, 11). The pastoral care of vocations is a fundamental part of their ministry. Priests accompany those who are discerning a vocation, as well as those who have already dedicated their lives to the service of God and of the community. All the faithful are called to appreciate the ecclesial dynamism of vocations, so that communities of faith can become, after the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary, like a mother’s womb which welcomes the gift of the Holy Spirit (cf. Lk 1: 35-38). The motherhood of the Church finds expression in constant prayer for vocations and in the work of educating and accompanying all those who perceive God’s call. This motherhood is also expressed through a careful selection of candidates for the ordained ministry and for the consecrated life. Finally, the Church is the mother of vocations in her continual support of those who have dedicated their lives to the service of others. We ask the Lord to grant to all those who are on a vocational journey a deep sense of belonging to the Church; and that the Holy Spirit may strengthen among Pastors, and all of the faithful, a deeper sense of communion, discernment and spiritual fatherhood and motherhood. Father of mercy, who gave your Son for our salvation and who strengthens us always with the gifts of your Spirit, grant us Christian communities which are alive, fervent and joyous, which are fonts of fraternal life, and which nurture in the young the desire to consecrate themselves to you and to the work of evangelisation. Sustain these communities in their commitment to offer appropriate vocational catechesis and ways of proceeding towards each one’s particular consecration. Grant the wisdom needed for vocational discernment, so that in all things the greatness of your merciful love may shine forth. May Mary, Mother and guide of Jesus, intercede for each Christian community, so that, made fruitful by the Holy Spirit, it may be a source of true vocations for the service of the holy People of God.
Franciscus From the Vatican, 29 November 2015 © Copyright - Libreria Editrice Vaticana
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MCI 3-day Workshop midweek course planned july 5-6-7
The Metropolitan Cantor Institute (MCI) will hold a 3-day workshop for cantors at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary in Pittsburgh July 5-7. This intensive course will introduce beginning cantors to the fundamentals of church singing and chant leadership; if there is interest, a master class for experienced cantors also will be offered. Both courses also are open to clergy who wish to broaden their musical skills. A limited amount of lodging accommodations is available at the seminary for those coming from outside the Pittsburgh area. For more information, see the MCI website (mci. archpitt.org) or contact Deacon Jeffrey Mierzejewski at 412735-1676. n
BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY
Sundays at 9:00 a.m. WEDO Radio 810 AM McKeesport, Pa. Broadcast live from Holy Ghost Church McKees Rocks, Pa.
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SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
Justice
continued from page 1 O’Hara acknowledged that the Church has learned hard lessons regarding child sexual abuse. In recent years, the prevalence of adult misconduct with children has been revealed in nearly every institution and organization that serves children. He added that the Church has responded accordingly with compassionate assistance, including financial support, for survivors and comprehensive education and training to identify and prevent abuse. “No other institution has done more in recent years to help survivors of abuse and put in place policies to prevent abuse from happening in the first place,” O’Hara said. “And yet, there are some legislators who continue to aim devastating legislation, like this current proposal, directly at the Church.” As proposed, this “window” legislation would open up a period of time for lawsuits against private and nonprofit organizations, no matter when the offense occurred. It would not apply to public schools or government agencies. Public entities would still be able to claim sovereign immunity from lawsuits, even though the vast majority of Pennsylvania students -- 83 percent -- attend public school. Survivors abused in public schools, juvenile detention facilities, or county foster care programs could not bring suits under the legislation. A fundamental principle of American law, statutes of limitations set time frames within which parties need to take action to ensure fairness in our legal system. Simply put, statutes of limitations encourage lawsuits to be filed when witnesses are available, memories are fresh, and evidence is intact. Measures that nullified the civil statute of limitations in other states drained billions of dollars from current ministries, parishes, schools and dioceses. The Diocese of Wilmington, DE, paid out $77.4 million in bankruptcy. The Diocese of Duluth, Minnesota, was ordered to pay $8.1 million to just one child abuse survivor. The dioceses in California paid out $1.2 billion for more than 1,000 claims, some involving alleged abuse as far back as the 1930s. Bankruptcy and severe debt was the only option for most dioceses in the states with retroactive windows. In Delaware, where a retroactive law was adopted, more
than half of the individual parishes in the state were sued. One parish in Delaware was hit with a verdict of over $3 million. Very few could afford to go to court; none were able to defend themselves on their own. Financially, they had no choice but to join a group settlement without establishing the facts of individual cases. The Diocese of Wilmington had to close two struggling inner-city Catholic schools because diocesan funds were drained paying out settlements. The diocese had to lay off 10 percent of its workforce, and shut down or severely cut back on its Catholic Charities programs that help all people regardless of creed. Diocesan resources, which had kept struggling parishes and schools open and filled the gaps for ministries that feed the hungry and serve those in need, were depleted to satisfy costly settlements and attorneys’ fees as part of the bankruptcy proceeding. “In every Catholic diocese in Pennsylvania, there are numerous parishes and schools that are struggling to stay afloat,” says O’Hara.” A retroactive change in the law will hit these parishes and schools the hardest, jeopardizing their existence.” “We can all agree that anyone who sexually abuses a child should be severely punished by the law,” added O’Hara. “Sexual predators should be locked behind bars and removed from society so they cannot hurt anyone else; but opening the floodgates for decades-old civil lawsuits will not put one pedophile in jail.” More than two-thirds of the accused perpetrators [68 percent] were already dead or very old and long removed from ministry at the time claims were made under California’s statutes of limitations “window.” Plaintiffs’ attorneys filed so many cases in California, Delaware, and Minnesota
that out-of-court settlement and bankruptcy were the only way to manage the numbers. Very few victims or defendants had their day in court; guilt or innocence was not the deciding factor in settlements but crippling financial ramifications for the defendant parishes and dioceses were the result. Since 2002, the Catholic Church has worked to end child sexual abuse by aggressively responding to allegations and educating adults and children about the signs of abuse. Today, the dioceses have one-strikeyou’re-out policies for clergy and employees accused of misconduct with children. As a matter of policy, any allegation of child sexual abuse must be immediately reported to the proper law enforcement agency. In Pennsylvania, over 450,000 Catholics have been trained to identify signs of abuse and are mandated to make a report when they suspect wrongdoing. All clergy, staff and volunteers who work with children are carefully screened for any past transgressions against children. Ironically, these longtime practices put in place by the Church are now state law for all adults who work with children, following reforms made in 2014. The Catholic Church has also been a leader in providing abuse survivors with counseling and other forms of assistance. The dioceses in Pennsylvania have committed significant resources to help sexual abuse survivors and their families obtain counseling, support groups or other social and material services to assist them in their healing and recovery from the traumatic experience of abuse. This is not the first time Pennsylvania has addressed the statute of limitations issue. As recently as 2008, Pennsylvania increased the statute of limitations on sexual abuse cases from age 20 to age 50 for criminal prosecutions and
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age 20 to 30 for civil actions. A task force that was appointed in the wake of the sexual abuse revelations at Penn State reviewed the law and recommended a sweeping overhaul of state child protection statutes. It also addressed Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations and did not recommend any changes. They cited fairness as a major concern, especially “the potential for staleness of evidence and possible constitutional concerns.” The report states, “The Task Force believes that the current statute of limitations is adequate, given that Pennsylvania is one of the most ‘generous’ states in terms of the length of time within which an action may be commenced.” (Report of the Task Force on Child Protection, pg. 28) “Sexual abuse is a serious crime that affects every institution and community in Pennsylvania, public and private,” O’Hara said. “Because of its gravity, it needs to be dealt with comprehensively and fairly. Any discussion of a legislative remedy must protect all children, not simply penalize some institutions.” The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference is urging Pennsylvanians who value our parishes, schools and charitable organizations to contact their state lawmakers and oppose unfair changes to the civil statute of limitations. n
Amy B. Hill is Communications Director of the Pennsylvania C a t h o l i c Conference – the public affairs agency of Pennsylvania’s Catholic bishops and the Catholic dioceses/ eparchies of Pennsylvania.
Stay up-to-date with Catholic news and issues at www. pacatholic.org, www.facebook. com/pacatholic, and www. twitter.com/pacatholic.
SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
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Safe Environment Workshop
Key milestones in
STRENGTHENING CHILD AND YOUTH PROTECTION
Safe environment guidelines require all clerics, employees and volunteers who work with children to be trained on how to prevent and report child sexual abuse.
Pope Benedict XVI meets with victims of abuse in Washington, D.C.
June 2015
Release of the study, The Causes and Context of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Catholic Priests in the United States, conducted by John Jay College.
March 2014
An independent audit of all dioceses is conducted to assess implementation of the Charter.
March 2011
‘protecting our children and youth’
April 2008
The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People is adopted by the USCCB; canonical Essential Norms are also adopted.
March 2003
The National Review Board, an expert lay advisory board to the bishops, holds its first meeting.
February 2003
July 2002
Belleville Bishop Wilton D. Gregory, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), issues a formal statement, expressing “profound sorrow that some of our priests were responsible for this abuse under our watch.”
June 2002
February 2002
within the Church
Pope Francis creates a tribunal for bishop negligence in clergy sexual abuse cases.
The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors is formed by Pope Francis.
© 2015 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
It is time, once again, for all employees and volunteers of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh to renew their Safe Environment Training Certification. It has been twelve years since the Charter for the Protection of Children was approved. There is much good news to share about all that has been done and continues to be done by the Church to prevent child abuse. This informational workshop will cover: The Charter for the Protection of Children; Statistics and Ongoing Concerns; Child Abuse Definitions and Responses; Mandated Reporting; Archieparchial Requirements; Prevention Measures; Tips for Parents/Guardians and Internet Safety. Much has changed since the Training Workshops were first introduced in 2003 and updated in 2007. There are new laws governing Child Abuse Clearances and Mandated Reporting, particularly in Pennsylvania, where the Archeparchy’s physical headquarters are located. There also are changes to the application process for Criminal and Child Abuse Clearances. All Archieparchial clergy, employees, staff, catechists, parents, youth leaders, volunteers and parishioners are urged to attend one of the four upcoming convenient workshops: Saturday April 9, 2016 10:00-11:30 a.m Uniontown, PA: St. John the Baptist Church Saturday May 7, 2016 10:00-11:30 a.m. Sykesville, PA: Holy Trinity Church Saturday May 21, 2016 10:00-11:30 a.m. Campbell, OH: St. Michael Church Saturday June 11, 2016 3:00-4:30 p.m. Munhall, PA: St. John Cathedral Workshop admission is FREE; resources will be provided for all participants. Register today by using the registration form on the above flyer, by visiting the Safe Environment page at www.archpitt.org to download and print the flyer/registration form, or by emailing ccorbett@ archpitt.org n
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parish news PAGE 6
SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
Paschal festivities
holy week-ends at holy spirit church
Palm Sunday March 20 was the drawing date for the muchanticipated Holy Spirit Easter Basket raffle. It was a great success, thanks to Phyllis O’Donnell, who is terrific at soliciting donations for the gifts, and Alexandria Bacasa, who helped with the basket setup and ticket sales. Monsignor Duker, pictured above with Alexandria and Phyllis, welcomes these additional resources to be used for church maintenance. Great Saturday festivities at Holy Spirit Church included the celebration of Resurrection Matins and the joy of the empty tomb, plus the savory aromas of the Paschal basket blessing following the March 26 liturgical celebration in the church hall, pictured below.
Happy golden moments
deskeviches celebrate 50 years together
On February 5, 2016 Andrew and Linda Deskevich of St. Nicholas Church, Nanty Glo, Pa. celebrated their 50th Wedding anniversary. Prior to their milestone event, on January 31 the at the Sunday Divine Liturgy, their pastor, Father Robert Oravetz (above) gave the celebrants a special blessing. On the Sunday following their actual anniversary date - February 7 - the couple’s son, Very Rev. Andrew J. Deskevich (below) celebrated a special Liturgy for his parents. Throughout their lives, Andrew and Linda have been active in their parish. Andrew has served as cantor since 1972; both he and Linda taught ECF classes and are active (respectively) in the Parish Men’s Club and Ladies Guild. May God grant them many years! n
New Salem parish observes ‘Day of Days’
keeping beloved paschal traditions On Holy Saturday - March 26, 2016 - following the celebration of Resurrection Matins and in celebration of the Day of Days, Father Christopher Burke, Administrator of St. Mary Church in New Salem, Pa. blessed the abundant Paschal Baskets of the faithful in attendance with the help of Altar Server Christopher Kormanik and Cantor Rick Gaydos (in background). n
Christ Is Risen! Indeed He Is Risen! Christos Voskrese! Voistinnu Voskrese! the byzantine catholic world
SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
parish news
INDEED He Is Risen!
a week of joy, activity at cathedral During Palm Sunday (March 20) and Holy Week 2016 - from the Holy Thursday washing of feet to Holy and Great Friday’s procession with the shroud - plashchanitza - to the triumphant entrance into the church to proclaim Christ Is Risen! Indeed He Is Risen! at Resurrection Matins on the eve of Pascha, Archbishop William, St. John Cathedral Rector Father Dennis Bogda, Deacon Tim Corbett, and the cantors, altar servers and faithful of the Cathedral parish were captured in a collage of images taken by Nick Havrilla, Sr. n
continued
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Performing acts of mercy during Holy Week st. gregory parishioners make paschal baskets to visit the homebound
All over the world, many Christians celebrate on Palm Sunday - Our Lord’s Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem. As part of this celebration, the faithful of St. Gregory Church in Upper St. Clair, Pa. received blessed palm and willow branches while singing aloud “Hosanna in the highest!” Following the March 20 Divine Liturgy, the Eastern Christian Formation students of the parish gathered in the church hall to learn the art of pysanky - the traditional Eastern European form of egg-painting. The children also had the opportunity to learn how to make decorative crosses from the palms which they received on this special day. The crosses then were placed in the paschal baskets which members of St. Gregory’s Bethany Ministry had prepared for a visit to homebound parishioners during Holy Week. n
Eastern Christian Formation students of St. Gregory Church show off their Pascha crafts, created on Palm Sunday, March 20.
A busy table full of eggs ready for decorating. photos by Jennifer T. Kehm
‘some-bunny’ is watching you . . .
Archbishop William and his trusty camera spotted this furry Spring visitor in the lawn at his episcopal residence.
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SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
A life of service recalled
bethany ministry welcomes bi-ritual priest, a former navy chaplain by Dorothy Mayernik
St. Gregory parish in Upper St. Clair, Pa. and Father Valerian Michlik welcomed Father Thomas Dansak as guest speaker following the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, March 13. As a bi-ritual priest, Father Thom regularly assists the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh. In keeping with Bethany Ministry’s Lenten outreach project, collecting items for those in active military service and our veterans, Father Thom enthusiastically shared many stories and insights from his 30 year career as a Navy chaplain. Asking for a show of hands, he acknowledged the many members of St. Gregory parish who served in the military and those who have family members currently serving. The son of a Byzantine Catholic Ruthenian mother and a Roman Catholic father, Father Thom was ordained for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh. Early on in his priestly ministry, he received a letter from the Archdiocese for the Military Services requesting priests to consider serving as military chaplains. “The idea was exciting to me. I was first in line at the Bishop’s office,” Father Thom recalled. He gratefully credits Bishop Vincent M. Leonard for his missionary spirit, giving up a priest for the diocese and granting Father Thom permission to enter the Navy. Father Thom related that the four primary roles of a military chaplain are to: 1) Provide for the constitution right to free exercise of religion for all service personnel – even those who are not people of any faith; 2) Provide for people of your own religious tradition; 3) Facilitate for those of other religious traditions; 4) Care for all persons regardless of their religious beliefs.
Ready, ready for spaghetti duquesne parish successful pasta party
The Parish Club of SS. Peter & Paul Church in Duquesne, Pa. held their 14th Annual Spaghetti Dinner on Sunday, April 3 in the parish social hall. Guests enjoyed not only the delicious meal, but also had fun depositing tickets to win one of the many baskets from the “Chinese” Auction and the Half/Half raffle. Pastor Father John Cuccaro and the Parish Club would like to thank everyone - the many volunteers, those who donated baskets for the auction, and all who attended the event - for making the Spaghetti Dinner a huge success. All proceeds from the Parish Club’s projects are donated to the church. n
St. Gregory parishioner Dorothy Mayernik presents Father Thom Dansak with a Bethany Ministry icon.
Father Thom’s tours in the Navy included several bases in the United States and in Japan, the Philippines, Guam, Puerto Rico, Okinawa, Italy, on the battleship USS Missouri and the aircraft carrier USS Independence. “Let’s just say some of the duty stations were more ‘comfortable’ than others … and going to sea was always an experience! On an aircraft carrier, you are within 1,000 feet of 5,000 sailors! But no matter where I was, it was always an environment of hard work and respect for each another. In celebrating Mass, sometimes the altar was in a chapel, or on the hood of a jeep or even a tree stump. But you made it beautiful. It was the ‘Throne of God.’” Father Thom’s talk truly brought to light the litany we routinely pray “For our government and all those in the service of our country.” Father Valerian expressed his thanks on behalf of the parish family following the presentation. Father Thom was presented with a Bethany Ministry icon, Easter cards made by children in the ECF Program for the veterans in the VA Hospital, and a storyboard made by the High School students portraying the gifts given to us by our veterans: freedom, safety, love, and courage. n
Parishioners of St. Gregory Church enjoy Father Thom Dansak‘s presentation, given March 13 at the parish social hall in Upper St. Clair, Pa. photos by Jodi Hernandez
Volunteers Amy O’Mara, Kim Donkin, Arlene Polivka, “The Boy Scout Mom,” and Joanne Druga went into hyper-duty to help make the spaghetti dinner a success!
Hungry patrons socialize at St. Mary’s parish hall in Duquesne, Pa. as they await their spaghetti dinners.
There’s nothing sweeter than a spaghetti face! Grandmother Joanne Jenco helps her grandson Hunter to spruce up after enjoying his pasta.
the byzantine catholic world
St. Mary’s pastor Father John Cuccaro tries his luck at the basket auction. photos by Lori Downey
SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
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9
YEAR MERCY
JUBILEE
OF
q
Doors of Mercy opened at Mount St. Macrina House of Prayer UNIONTOWN — In response to Pope Francis’ call for all Catholics to seek and experience God’s mercy during the Jubilee Year of Mercy, Archbishop William C. Skurla opened the Holy Door of Mercy at the Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, located in the House of Prayer at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. The door was opened on Saturday March 19 at 10 a.m. and will remain open through the conclusion of the Jubilee Year of Mercy on November 20, 2016. A reception was held immediately following the March 19 service. The House of Prayer is celebrating its 40th year in 2016. To arrange a day pilgrimage, contact the House of Prayer directly at 724-438-7149. n
2016 Mount St. Macrina House of Prayer
Upcoming Program Schedule Healing Retreat (Presented by Fr. William Kiel) April 23, 2016, 9:00 a.m.—3:00 p.m. Offering: $35, includes lunch. Registration Due: April 18 Iconography Retreat (Presented by Marylyn Barone) April 29—May 1, 2016, 6:00 pm Friday—4:00 pm Sunday Offering: $225. Commuters: $200, includes supplies. Registration Due: April 20 This retreat will be for adults and requires no previous icon-writing experience. Participants will write an icon of Our Lady of Kasperov on an 8 x 10 gesso-covered board. Using a pre-prepared prototype, they will learn techniques for faces, garments, background and gilding with 23 karat gold leaf. Young Adult Retreat (Presented by Sr. Barbara Jean & Young Adult Team) June 24-26, 2016, 7:00 p.m. Friday—11:00 a.m. Sunday Offering: $100. Registration Due: June 17 Each participant will receive the book “Rediscover Jesus: An Invitation” The Sisters kindly ask that anyone interested in participating in the House of Prayer programs please register early. Early registrations help to avoid the cancellation of programs. To register to any of the above programs, contact the House of Prayer at 724-438-7149. n
‘Faith & Reason’ summer program 6th annual course at st. vincent college
FEARLESS
Sponsored by the Inter-Eparchial Youth Commission of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolia of Pittsburgh
Notre Dame College, South Euclid, Ohio
Keynote Speaker: Father Damian Ference (Priest, Musician, Philosopher, Youth Minister)
7-10
Dance will be at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
ByzanTEEN National Youth Rally
July
Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pa. will host the sixth annual Faith and Reason Summer Program, an intensive, one-week introduction to the Catholic, liberal arts tradition, from Sunday, June 12, to Friday, June 17, directed by Dr. Michael P. Krom, associate professor and chair of the philosophy department, and a member of St. Mary Byzantine Church, Bradenville. The program is specifically designed for advanced high school and first-year college students who are seeking an opportunity to come to a richer, deeper understanding of the Catholic faith and its integration in college education. While the program takes place in a Roman rite setting, there is a Byzantine component, most notably a field trip to a local Byzantine parish for Divine Liturgy and discussion about the rites of the Church. Housing in a college residence hall; three daily meals in the college dining hall are included in the cost ($495). Students age 15 and older are invited to apply for admission to the program. Limited scholarship funding is available, and specific scholarships have been reserved for Byzantine Catholics. Further information is available by contacting Dr. Krom at 724 805-2844 or michael.krom@stvincent.edu. Students also may register online at www.stvincent.edu/faithandreason. n
The Lord is my Rock and my Refuge
2016 www.byzanteen.com
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SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras
THE PRESENCE OF GOD The Russian Orthodox f a i t h f u l often greet one another, “ G l o r y to God!” (Slava Bogu). In many Christian traditions, the presence of God is proclaimed in our greetings and our farewells. It is that God is “present everywhere and fills all things.” He is the beginning and the end and everything we say and do is in his presence. Catholics of the Byzantine tradition usually greet one another, “Glory to Jesus Christ!” Our Lord is the incarnation of God, who walked in our midst and who is still present with us. When the kiss of peace is given in the Divine Liturgy, our salutation is, “Christ is among us,” to which we respond, “He is and will be.” (Technically, we could more literally say, “He both is and he will be.”) Here we profess what our Lord told us in the Gospel, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20). Christ is with us always, as he promised at his ascension (Matthew 28:20) and in each and every one of us (Matthew 25:40). The Eastern Catholic greeting is possibly a translation of the Latin, “Laudetur Jesus Christus,” “Praised be Jesus Christ.” The Byzantine tradition always emphasizes the glory of God, which fills the world, as the poet Gerard Manley Hopkins wrote, “The world is charged with the grandeur of God.” The short prayer also affirms this reality, “To the greater glory
of God” (Latin, “Ad majorem gloriam Dei”). Indeed, God is found in many of the world’s greetings, “Adieu,” (French) “Adios” (Spanish), “Goodbye,” (English, “God be with you.”) Who, indeed, is God? There is a contemporary movement called the “new atheism,” which has influenced many people. This movement, however, gets its strength from the concepts we have of God.
God is the reality of that which is. While we witness that “God is present everywhere and fills all things,” sometimes the picture we form of him is inadequate. The Pseudo-Dionysius, a Syrian theologian of the sixth century, warns us of this danger, “... we must not dare to resort to words or conceptions concerning that hidden divinity which transcends being, apart from what the sacred scriptures have divinely revealed. Since the unknowing of what is beyond being is something above and beyond speech, mind, or being itself, one should ascribe to it understanding beyond being” (The Divine Names 1,1). St. Paul preached to the Athenians in Greece about God, “it is he who gives to everyone life and breath and everything .... For ‘In him we live and move and have our being’ ” (Acts 17:25.28). We are not comfortable with the unseeable nature of God, and so we try to form concepts of him, the “hidden divinity which transcends being,” and
these usually picture God as another being among beings, instead of that which is above all beings, and gives existence to all that is by his creative power. Thus we have a jumble: rocks, trees, animals, God, birds, fish, human beings, baseball, oranges, while the reality is that we have all these things and life itself because God calls them into being and sustains their existence. God is the reality of that which is. We see these false concepts in our media. God is usually represented as an old man dwelling in the clouds, looking down upon humanity. He is not “among us,” but, instead, “out there,” “somewhere else,” far from our daily lives. We invoke him as a magic talisman only when we need him. This is especially evident, for example, in cartoons, where God is depicted as a comical old man doing funny things. This false image is the one the new atheists latch onto, and taunt believers, “how can you believe in such a ridiculous God?” They then say that the whole idea of God is simply ignorant superstition. This is what is called setting up a straw man. They paint an image of God that no one could really believe in, and then knock down this false picture. Unfortunately, believers sometimes help them along by similar false images. I so often hear people refer to God as “the man upstairs,” though, of course, he is neither a man (the Word of God became a man, but this did not change the divine nature), nor is he “upstairs.” More seriously, Christians sometimes have made icons of the Father as an old man, but this practice
was forbidden by the seventh ecumenical council (Nicea II, 787): “Christians have never made an icon of the invisible and incomprehensible divinity, but it is only insofar as the Word became flesh and dwelt among us that we paint the mysteries of man’s redemption.” Any images of God, except for the human body of our Lord, are only analogical, as the image of the three angels visiting Abraham (Genesis 18), or of the “ancient of days,” in the prophecy of Daniel (chapter 7). The Holy Spirit is sometimes represented as a dove, or a cloud or tongues of fire, images which appear in Scripture, though we know that the Spirit is not material fire nor cloud nor a bird. St. John of Damascus writes, “But furthermore, who can make a similitude of the invisible, incorporeal (bodiless), uncircumscribed, and undepictable God? It is, then, uttermost insanity and impiety to give a form to the Godhead.” (The Orthodox Faith 4, 16) As faithful Christians, we must foster a healthy relationship with God. The mass media today often tries to form an image of God, but the writers and actors involved are not good theologians. God becomes simply one more character among others. They try to depict him as warm and lovable, but more very often make him a comic character. Any true idea of God can only come from our authentic worship and from the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. “I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, of all things both visible and invisible.” n
Cencich to inaugrate St. Gregory’s “Speakers Platform” renowned war crimes investigator, author to speak sunday, april 17 Renowned war crimes investigator Dr. John R. Cencich will speak April 17 at St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church in Upper St. Clair, Pa. concerning his lifetime career of leading investigations of crimes against humanity. He is the first of a series of speakers sponsored by the newly established “Speaker’s Platform” of St. Gregory’s Library Ministry. Dr. Cencich is author of “The Devil’s Garden: A War Crimes Investigator’s Story.” In it he shares his work as an American investigator at The Hague in 2002, which resulted in the indictment of Serbian war criminal Slobodan Miloševic and 15 others who were co-perpetrators of crimes against humanity including the massacre of thousands of civilians in Croatia.
Recently, Dr. Cencich co-hosted the History Chanel’s eight episode mini-series “Hunting Hitler” in which he shares the exploration and discoveries that are leading to the change of Dr. John R. Cencich presently held facts concerning this era in history. This “Speakers Platform” presentation is free and open to the public. If you enjoy mystery, intrigue and detailed inquiry, come to hear Dr. Cencich share his experiences and answer your questions concerning the world of international criminal investigation. Program begins at 11:00 a.m. Sunday, April 17 at St. Gregory Church Hall, 2005 Mohawk Road, Upper St. Clair, Pa. For directions, visit www.stgregoryusc.org.
the byzantine catholic world
SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
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ETERNAL MEMORY: Fallen Asleep in the Lord
‘A true and faithful priest’ father david petras shares heartfelt recollections of beloved friend Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Wesley Izer Born: May 24, 1946 Ordained: May 14, 1977 Died: March 20, 2016 On a personal level, Father Wes has been one of my closest and beloved friends. In 2012, he welcomed me to Gilbert, Ariz., where he was administrator and had me as a guest for my sabbatical. He made arrangements for my retirement in Phoenix and has always been a source of support. More importantly, he has been a major pillar of the spirit of the Church of St. Mary’s Protection in Phoenix. His service to our church has always been unselfish, competent and faithful to the gospel. Formed early in the spirit of St. John Bosco in the Salesians, he offered his gifts to our Byzantine Church for accomplishments that will be unable to be fully appreciated. On the highest and most spiritual level, he has been a true and faithful priest in our Lord Jesus Christ and the grace of the Spirit. My faith, and I am sure the faith of many, is stronger
because he allowed the Lord to work through him. Now our Lord, in his incomprehensible love for us all, has called him to follow him into the heavenly Jerusalem on the feast of his entrance into the holy city. At that time, Martha said to Jesus, “I know my brother will rise, in the resurrection on the last day.” Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” (John 11:24-26) “Your godly minister has gone to you, O Christ, now deified in his translation by your life-giving mystery. Take his soul into your hand as if it were a bird, establish him in your courts and in the angelic choirs, and give rest to him whom you have received by your command, O Lord, for the sake of your great mercy. “This man, O Christ, has lived a pious life; he was called by you to be your priest, the celebrant and the one who offers your divine mysteries. By your command he has now passed from the troubles of
Right Reverend Mitred Archimandrite Wesley Izer rector of phoenix pro-cathedral Right Reverend Mitred Archimandrite Wesley Izer, rector of Saint Stephen Byzantine Catholic Cathedral in the Holy Protection of Mary Eparchy of Phoenix, Arizona, fell asleep in the Lord on Palm Sunday, March 20, 2016 in Phoenix, at the age of 69. Born May 24, 1946, Father Wes was ordained May 14, 1977. The Cathedral was open for both visitation and funeral liturgies on Bright Monday and Bright Tuesday evenings March 28-29, during which time the Paschal Parastas for a Priest also was celebrated. The Paschal Funeral for a Priest was celebrated on the morning of Bright Wednesday March 30. n
May God grant to his priestly servant the Archimandrite Wesley Blessed Repose and Eternal Memory!
life to you. O Savior, save this man whom you have accepted as priest. Give him rest with all your saints, for the sake of your great mercy.”
May it be in faith and in hope and in love. Eternal Memory! n
- Stichera for a Departed Priest
Ninth Day Remembrance: March 28 (Bright Monday)
And have mercy and console us, O Lord, for we, too, must someday follow the same road.
Third Day Remembrance: March 22 (Holy Tuesday)
Fortieth Day Remembrance: April 28
HAPPY ARE THE ONES WHOM YOU HAVE CHOSEN AND RECEIVED, O LORD; THEY ARE REMEMBERED FOREVER. ALLELUIA!
In Blessed Memory
Commemorating the 23rd Anniversary of the repose in the Lord of
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
HAPPY ARE THE ONES WHOM YOU HAVE CHOSEN AND RECEIVED, O LORD; THEY ARE REMEMBERED FOREVER. ALLELUIA!
In Blessed Memory
Commemorating the 15th 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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SUNDAY APRIL 10, 2016
SAVE THE DATE! Faith and Fun Day 2016 WEDNESDAY JULY 20
9th annual event for Altar Servers of parishes in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh Sponsored by the Office of Vocations
• Divine Liturgy for the Feast of St. Elijah the Prophet • Faith-and-Fun-filled activities • Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game at PNC Park vs. Milwaukee Brewers • Followed by the Pirates’ annual “Faith Night” presentation
Information & Sign-up packets will be distributed to parish pastors/administrators in May
BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY view liturgical services (various times) streamed LIVE online at: 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
around the archeparchy CHAMPAGNE LUNCH & BINGO - St. Elias Byzantine Catholic Church, 4200 Homestead-Duquesne Road, Munhall, Pa. will hold their ever-popular “Champagne Lunch & Bingo” on Sunday, April 24 in the parish Social Hall. Seating is limited and all seats are reserved. Donation is $35, which includes lunch and a bingo packet with nine cards for regular games and specials, and three for the Jackpot. Doors open at 11:00 a.m.; lunch served from noon to 1:00 p.m.; early birds begin at 1:15 p.m.; regular games begin at 1:30 p.m. Prizes: Regular games - $75, Round Robin - $250, Specials (3) - $175 each, Jackpot - $1100. Additional regular game packets are available for purchase. There will be two 5-minute intermissions. Admission includes lunch with a “champagne drink,” cheese & crackers, salad, chicken, ziti pasta, Italian meatballs, potatoes, vegetable, dessert, coffee and soda. There also will be a “Chinese” auction and door prizes. Advance ticket purchase is required, so please buy your tickets early! For tickets, call 412-635-6104. ICONOGRAPHY WORKSHOP - Marylyn Barone will conduct a weekend iconography workshop April 29-30/May 1 at Mount St. Macrina, Uniontown, Pa. with optional overnight lodging at The Mount. Class meets Friday evening, all day Saturday, and Sunday from noon until finishing. Participants will write an icon of Our Lady of Kasperov on an 8” x 10” gesso-covered board, and must attend all three days to complete the icon. Offering of $225 will cover the overnight retreat and supplies. Offering for non-lodging commuters is $200. For further information call the House of Prayer (retreat center) at 724-438-7149. SUPER SATURDAY SALE - St. Pius X Church, located at 2336 Brownsville Road in Carrick (Pgh. 15210), Pa. will be holding its annual Super Saturday Sale - a Vendor, Craft, and Flea Market event - on Saturday, April 30. The Flea Market will be held in the church basement from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm and the Craft/Vendor show will be held in the church auditorium from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Ethnic foods and baked goods will be sold throughout the day. Questions, call the church at 412-881-8344. A STORY OF SURVIVAL - Holy Spirit Church, located on Fifth Avenue in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, will host a talk given by Mr. Judah Samet, a survivor of the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, on Sunday, May 1, at 2:00 p.m. Mr. Samet will speak on his family’s experience of being taken from their home in Debrecen, Hungary during WWII, and the conditions and horrors dealt to many by the Nazi regime. This is history that cannot be forgotten. All are welcome for this free event; a good will offering is requested for the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh. Visit the parish web site www.HolySpiritChurchPgh.org. SLAVJANE CONCERT - “Save the Date” for the 40th annual Slavjane Folk Ensemble concert on Saturday, June 11. Note that this year’s milestone concert features both current ensemble members and alumni from the past 40 seasons! The show will be presented on the stage of Robert Morris University’s Colonial Theatre on the campus located on University Boulevard in Moon Township Pa. Curtain time is 1:30 p.m. The concert will be followed by a dance reception at Holy Trinity Parish School Hall, 5718 Steubenville Pike, McKees Rocks, PA 15136. Delicious homemade ethnic foods and pastries will be available for purchase along with a sprawling Rusyn (“Chinese”) Auction. Entertainment will be provided by the popular Orkestar Zabava. Tickets can be purchased in advance (recommended) and also may be available at the door. Adults $10, students $5, children 5 and under, free. Reception-only admission is $5. Contact Jackie Righetti at 412-749-0675 or Dean Poloka at 412-877-9351 to order tickets or for further information. Slavjane looks forward to seeing you - Vitajte!
dates to remember APRIL 16 Women’s Day of Reflection St. Elias Church - Munhall, Pa. APRIL 18 4th Anniversary of Archbishop William’s Enthronement MAY 1 Paschal Program with the Archieparchial Choir St. John Cathedral - Munhall, Pa. MAY 5 Feast of the Ascension of our Lord CHANCERY CLOSED MAY 7 Safe Environment Workshop Holy Trinity Church - Sykesville, Pa. MAY 11 16th Annual SS. Cyril & Methodius Lecture St. John Cathedral - Munhall, Pa. See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org
the byzantine catholic world
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 1
submissions DEADLINE: APRIL 19