July Issue

2013 archeparchy

financial report insert

the official newspaper of the archeparchy of pittsburgh

faith & fun 2014

Inside

Archieparchial altar servers converge in Pittsburgh for 7th annual event Pages 4 & 5

Come to 2014 Pilgrimage

‘theotokos, fountain of mercy’ is theme Shrine Altar on Friday evening for those arriving earlier.

Plans for the weekend include many opportunities for participation in the Divine Liturgy of the Byzantine Catholic Church. Also scheduled are Matins, Vespers, Mystery (sacrament) of Reconciliation, healing and anointing services, and other services in honor of the Theotokos – the Mother of God. In between scheduled events, pilgrims find solace in walking the beautiful grounds of Mount St. Macrina, visiting the many shrines, and enjoying the companionship of family and friends who share a common purpose.

The Pilgrimage provides for the diverse spiritual needs of many pilgrims who frequent this major unifying event in the life of the Byzantine Catholic Church. Its participants include clergy and faithful from across the country. It holds the distinction of being the oldest and the largest Byzantine Catholic Pilgrimage. n See Sister Seraphim’s welcome letter on page 3

The Sisters of St. Basil the Great invite you to experience the 80th Annual PILGRIMAGE IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP Saturday & Sunday August 30 & 31 Mount St. Macrina Uniontown, PA

thanks, fr. roy!

Father Roy Schubert joins the ranks of the retired as his Sheffield parish bids a fond farewell Page 5

sunday, july 27, 2014

happenings galore Parishes of the Archeparchy prove beyond a doubt that there’s no business like ‘busy-ness’ Pages 6, 7, 8 & 9

Concerned Pope prays for peace in Middle East

assures persecuted of constant prayer

Vatican Radio

UNIONTOWN, PA – The 80th Annual Pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help will be held at Mount St. Macrina, August 30-31. The Pilgrimage planning committee selected the 2014 theme: Theotokos, Fountain of Mercy.

“We Sisters invite you to continue this traditional journey to Mount St. Macrina for the 80th Pilgrimage honoring our Lady of Perpetual Help. We need her compassionate help to daily face the world brimming with challenges. Together we need to drink from this Fountain of Mercy,” said Sister Seraphim Olsafsky, Provincial, Sisters of St. Basil the Great.

The Sisters of St. Basil are in continuous preparation for the Pilgrimage. As in previous years, the Sisters will welcome all those Pilgrims who come from distant places whether by cars, vans, buses, or airplanes.

They will continue to welcome those who come early and camp on the race track, or stay at Trinity Center. Light fare will be available at the Lunch Stand on Friday evening. Liturgical prayers will be held at the

vol. 59 no. 10

(Vatican Radio) – Pope Francis on Sunday [July 20] expressed his concern for the plight of Christian communities in the Iraqi town of Mosul and in other parts of the Middle East.

Speaking after the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope turned his thoughts to those Christians who are now persecuted in the lands they have lived since the beginning of Christianity, offering - he said - a precious contribution to the good of society.

“Today our brothers are persecuted” – the Pope said

– “they are banished from their homes and forced to flee without even being able to take their belongings!”

And, assured them of his closeness and constant prayer he said: “My dear brothers and sisters who are persecuted, I know how much you suffer; I know that you are deprived of all. I am with you in faith in He who conquered evil”.

The Pope then appealed to all – to those present in the Square and far beyond – to Peace continued on page 3

USCCB president echoes urgent call for peace joins pope francis in plea for prayers, action for peace in middle east, ukraine, africa, central america from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

WASHINGTON — Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), has asked the U.S. bishops to join with him in prayer and action for peace in world trouble spots, including the

Middle East, Ukraine, Africa and Central America.

He also urged the bishops to express solidarity with Pope Francis in a July 22 letter, which follows.

USCCB continued on page 3

page 2

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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

official appointments the following appointments within the archeparchy have been made by metropolitan archbishop william: Announced July 13, 2014

Effective July 14, 2014: • Father Ronald P. Larko appointed administrator of St. Stephen, Leisenring, in addition to continuing as pastor of St. John, Uniontown, both in Pennsylvania.

From the Office of Religious Education:

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.

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Theotokos,

USCCB

continued from page 1

Fountain of Mercy!

Dear Brother Bishops,

Glory to Jesus Christ!

May God bless you!

Dear Friends,

On Sunday, July 20, our Holy Father, Pope Francis, prayed for peace in all situations of tension and conflict in the world. He mentioned in particular the Middle East and Ukraine, singling out the terrible crisis of Christians in Iraq with these words: “Today our brothers are persecuted. They are banished from their homes and forced to flee without even being able to take their belongings!”

The Redemptorists in Canada recently communicated they are beginning their journey toward the solemn celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the handing over to the Redemptorists the Icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help by Pope Pius IX. The entire history of this devotion throughout the world has been a profound and ongoing experience of the maternal love of Mary, who accompanies us with her serene gaze, and who is ever ready to offer us the help that she brings in her arms, Jesus, our Savior.

This year we Sisters are celebrating the 80th Pilgrimage honoring the Theotokos under the title of Our Lady of Perpetual Help through the theme of “Theotokos, Fountain of Mercy!” This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the death of Pope Pius XI. Pius XI was the first Pope to directly address the Christian ecumenical movement. Like Benedict XV, he was interested in achieving reunion with the Eastern Orthodox - failing that, he was determined to give special attention to the Eastern Catholic Churches. In 1935, on the occasion of the visit of Bishop Basil Takach to Rome, Pope Pius XI entrusted the Bishop with a gift for the Uniontown Sisters: a beautiful icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. In presenting this icon, the Pope requested that the Sisters spread devotion to the Theotokos under this title. Wishing to comply with the Holy Father’s request, Mother Macrina and the Sisters initiated the Pilgrimage so that thousands of faithful would come to Mount St. Macrina to honor the Mother of God through this holy icon.

We Sisters invite you to continue this traditional journey to Mount St. Macrina for the 80th Pilgrimage honoring our Lady of Perpetual Help. We need her compassionate help to daily face the world brimming with challenges. Together we need to drink from this Fountain of Mercy.

Sincerely in the Lord Jesus,

All of these tragic situations, and sadly many more, demand our prayer and action for peace. On Sunday, Pope Francis pleaded: “May the God of peace arouse in all an authentic desire for dialogue and reconciliation. Violence cannot be overcome with violence. Violence is overcome with peace!” Let us join our prayers and calls to action with his.

In the coming days and weeks I urge you to ask our Catholic people to pray for peace and to support diplomatic efforts aimed at dialogue and reconciliation. As Jesus admonishes us: “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9). This can be done in personal prayers and in the Prayers of the Faithful at Mass [Litanies at the Divine Liturgy].

We should never underestimate the power of prayer; for it touches and opens us to the power of God among us. My prayer is that together we might help open our world to God’s gift of peace, a peace that the world cannot give (cf. John 14:27).

Fraternally yours in our Lord, Most Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Archbishop of Louisville President, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Sister Seraphim, OSBM Provincial, Sisters of St. Basil the Great Uniontown Province

Peace

Our own Conference of Bishops has called attention to numerous situations of violence that cry out for peace. There is the terrible conflict between Israel and Hamas that terrorizes Israeli civilians and has cost the lives of more than 500 Gazans, most of whom are civilians. There are the alarming conflicts in Syria and Iraq that have caused millions to flee their homes and tens of thousands to lose their lives. We are mindful of the violent conflict in Ukraine, of the thousands who are displaced, and the hundreds of innocent civilians whose lives were cut short when a passenger jet was shot down.

In Africa there are the often forgotten clashes in South Sudan, the Central African Republic, Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo that have displaced millions. Closer to home, there is the violence in Central America that is driving unaccompanied children to seek refuge in our country.

continued from page 1

persevere in praying for peace in all situations of tension and conflict in the world, and he especially mentioned the Middle East and Ukraine.

“May the God of peace” – Francis said – “arouse in all an authentic desire for dialogue and reconciliation. Violence cannot be overcome with violence. Violence is overcome with peace!”

The Pope’s appeal followed his Sunday address to the crowds gathered in the Square for the recitation of the Angelus prayer.

Taking his cue from the

Gospel reading of the day, the Pope reflected on the parable that tells of the man who sowed good seed in his field while his enemy sowed weeds. But when the man’s servants offer to pull up the weeds, the man stoped them saying “if you pull up the weeds you might uproot the wheat along with them”.

This parable – Pope Francis explained – speaks to us of the problem of evil in the world and it highlights God’s patience.

The devil – he said – plants evil where there is good, trying to divide people, families

and nations. But God – he continued – knows how to wait. He looks into the ‘field’ of each person with patience and mercy: he sees the dirt and the evil much better than we do, but he also sees the seeds of good and patiently awaits their germination.

God – Pope Francis said – is a patient father who waits with an open heart to welcome us and to forgive us. But – he pointed out – His patience does not mean He is indifferent to evil. One must not confuse good and evil. And at the end, at the time of the harvest,

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Jesus will judge us all separating those who have sown good seed from those who have s o w n weeds. And – Francis said – we will be judged with the same meter with which we judged others; we will be shown the same mercy we showed towards others.

Let us ask Our Lady – Pope Francis concluded – to help us grow in patience and in mercy. n

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sunday, july 27, 2014

Archeparchy’s ‘Faith & Fun Day’ lives up to its name office of vocations delivers dawn to dusk for altar servers, clergy, chaperones

by Darlene Fejka

Faith & Fun Day once again has lived up to its moniker and reputation. Held Thursday, June 26, the 2014 edition of the annual outing for Archieparchial altar servers, sponsored by the Office of Vocations, was attended by 45 servers, their chaperones and a number of clergy.

After checking in that morning in the upper social hall of Holy Ghost Church (McKees Rocks, Pa.) and receiving their official Faith & Fun Day T-shirts, participants walked across the parking lot to the church, where Divine Liturgy began the day’s events.

Archbishop William was the

celebrant, with concelebrants Very Rev. Archpriest Dennis M. Bogda (Director, Office of Vocations), Rev. Kevin E. Marks (Assistant Vocations Director and homilist), Rev. Frank A. Firko (Holy Ghost pastor), Rev. Will Rupp (pastor, St. John the Baptist, Hawk Run, Pa.), Deacon Luke Crawford (Holy Trinity, Sykesville, Pa.) and Deacon Dennis Prestash (St. John the Baptist, Hawk Run). Altar servers included Elias Stebbins (Holy Ghost), Denny Prestash Jr. (St. John the Baptist, Hawk Run.), and the Brothers Munsie – Aidan, Ian and Riley (St. John Cathedral, Munhall). Office

of Vocations Administrative Coordinator Darlene Fejka led the responses. Wearing their official burnt-orange T-shirts, the servers gathered in front of the iconostas for a commemorative photo with Archbishop William at the conclusion of the liturgy [featured on page 1 of the July 6, 2014 BCW].

Following the morning’s spiritual nourishment, lunch was served back in the social hall by Holy Ghost volunteers Helen Hopey, Frank and Carol Lipchick and George Mosko.

Another Holy Ghost volunteer, Father Jim Ragan (pastor of the Monessen, Pa. parish, that

Sheffield parish honors retiring pastor

father roy schubert feted at luncheon for 10 years of service

by Irene Solock Honoring Father Roy Schubert in appreciation of his spiritual care and guidance of St Michael Church in Sheffield, Pa. for the past ten years, the parish family hosted a retirement luncheon Sunday, June 29. The luncheon followed Divine Liturgy, celebrated by Father Roy and concelebrated

by Deacon Paul Boboige of Nativity of the Mother of God Church, DuBois.

Cantor Ann Leasure read and presented to Father Roy a Certificate of Award “in recognition of outstanding achievement for his pastoral services at Saint Michael’s parish.” Parishioner Ellen Peroski presented another meaningful gift to Father Roy: a teacup and tea bags.

Everyone then joined in singing “God Grant Many Years.”

Father Roy expressed his thanks for the gifts and for the luncheon, then blessed the food and offered the Prayer of Thanksgiving.

Sandee Bross, Social Chairperson, planned the delicious “Bring a Dish to Pass” affair, assisted by members of the parish. It also included a “Card Shower” and a special decorated cake prepared by a grateful friend, Nancy Edmiston. Father Roy’s Aunt Millie and cousin Bob of the pastor’s hometown of Beaverdale, Pa. were present to share this event.

In appreciation for the help and generous cooperation of the parish family during his

A donation in commemoration of his retirement, Father Roy Schubert proudly poses aside the carved wood statue of St. Michael the Archangel, patron saint of the church in Sheffield, Pa. where Father Roy served the faithful for ten years as pastor.

pastorate, Father Roy donated a chainsaw carving to the parish, which was installed in front of St Michael’s a week earlier.

The carving is reminiscent of the “old country” art of carved icons on tree trunks and hand carved iconostases.

Father Roy will be retiring to Mount Macrina Manor in Uniontown. The parish family is thankful for their pastor’s

kindly and caring manner and for his full schedule of providing daily Divine Liturgies and feastday services. We shall miss him, remember him in our prayers, and most certainly wish him a blessed happy retirement! May God Grant Father Roy many blessed, happy, and peaceful retirement years! n

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is) completed the serving staff, who dished out plate after plate of delicious foodfare.

Bus boarding followed, destination: Heinz Field on the nearby North Shore of Pittsburgh. The stadium is home to both the University of Pittsburgh “Pitt” Panthers and the six-time Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers football teams. Three tour guides led groups of Faith & Fun Day visitors throughout the stadium, stopping in areas of interest - particularly the team locker rooms, press box and on the field. In the Great Hall, Super Bowl trophies and numerous items of memorabilia were viewed in addition to hearing some great stories told by the stadium guides.

Next stop: the Carnegie Science Center and Sports Works.

From hands-on science displays to full-bodyon activities such as wall climbing and baseball pitching under radar, the servers (and their accompanying adults!) thoroughly enjoyed this leg of the Faith & Fun journey.

Last stop: PNC Park, home of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball club, where the home team battled the New York Mets in a picture-perfect evening game, emerging victorious by a score of 5-2. In addition to the magnificent view of the City of Pittsburgh (and the quirky “pierogie” race!), an added attraction viewed from the group’s excellent lower field box seats behind the Pirates’ dugout was the spectacular fireworks display after the game.

Alas, the night wasn’t over just yet . . . the Faith & Fun Day entourage then moved to their right into a special area of seating for the day’s finale: “Faith Night” - testimonies of faith given by Pirates players and their skipper, Clint Hurdle.

Along with an excellent talk

by Hurdle, among those who attested to the power of faith and how the Lord Jesus has helped them in their lives and sports careers were: 2013 National League MVP and 2013-2014 All-Star Andrew McCutchen; Silver Slugger third baseman Pedro Alvarez; 2013 AllStar pitcher Mark Melancon; 2014 All-Star utilityman Josh Harrison; second baseman Neil Walker; pitcher Jared Hughes; shortstop Jordy Mercer, pitcher Charlie Morton, and (former) Faith & Fun continued on page 5

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Faith & Fun continued from page 4

Pirates pitcher Jason Grilli. The hundreds of game-goers who lingered for the presentation listened intently as each player answered questions posed by pre-selected area children. With genuine poise and grace, the men proved to be exemplary role models both on and off the field, and especially by participating in this voluntary event.

The real last stop: heading back to Holy Ghost McKees Rocks for drop-off and pick-up.

Comments heard throughout the day ranged from “this is so cool” and “awesome!” to “I am SO glad we did this!”

The Office of Vocations is glad they did this, too . . . and everthankful for the dedication of each and every altar server of the Archeparchy who attended, as well as those who were unable to make the trip this year. YOU – and all young Byzantine Catholics – are the future of our Church. Many thanks . . . Many years! n

Altar servers from these churches enjoyed Faith & Fun Day 2014: St. George Aliquippa, Pa. St. Mary Ambridge, Pa. St. John the Baptist Avella, Pa. St. John the Baptist Hawk Run, Pa. St. Michael Hermitage, Pa. St. Mary Homer City, Pa. St. John the Baptist Lyndora, Pa. Holy Ghost McKees Rocks, Pa. St. Mary Morgantown, W.Va. St. Elias Munhall, Pa. St. John Cathedral Munhall, Pa. St. Nicholas Nanty-Glo, Pa. Holy Trinity Sykesville, Pa. Holy Spirit Pittsburgh (Oakland), Pa. St. Mary Trauger (Latrobe), Pa. SS. Peter & Paul Warren, Ohio St. Mary Youngstown, Ohio the byzantine catholic world

parish news page 6

sunday, july 27, 2014

Getting to know you . . . new pastor, family settle in herminie

by Marylyn Barone

Gathered following the June 13 Moleben service at St. Mary Church in Herminie, Pa. are (from left) Father Donald Voss, Father Frank A. Firko, Father John Mina, Father Michael Farynets, Father Edward Litavec and Father John G. Petro.

Blessing the newly renovated rectory at St. Mary Church are (from left) Father Donald Voss, Father John Mina, Father Frank Firko and Father Michael Farynets.

After many years without a resident pastor, St. Mary Church in Herminie, Pa. now has a pastor - Father Michael Farynets. He also will be the administrator for Holy Trinity Church in Wall, Pa. Because of its disuse in recent years, the Herminie rectory needed a major overhaul. With the help of parishioners from both parishes, along with his wife, Pani Marina, Father Michael who is quite handy with a drill and hammer - transformed the vacant rectory into a fine home for his family. Ripping the glued-down carpeting revealed a beautiful parquet floor, (which of course need sanding and varnishing), painting the walls, and scrubbing, scrubbing and more scrubbing made the rectory ship-shape.

Father Michael and his family officially moved in on July 13.

He joked, “We have moved in, but we have no bed.” While they awaited a bedroom set, which was donated Father Andrew Deskevich, the family used an air mattress, lent by a

helpful parishioner.

Sunday July 13 was celebrated with a moleben and a service for the installation of a resident priest by Father John Mina, Protopresbyter of the Clairton Protopresbytery, followed by the blessing of the house. Father Frank Firko, Father Donald Voss and Father Michael concelebrated. Also taking part in blessing the rectory was Father John Petro and guest, Father Edward Litavec of Sacred Heart Church in Shadyside (Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh). After the services, parishioners from both churches enjoyed a covered dish dinner. It also was Father Michael’s birthday and he announced that this day was a great birthday gift.

In appreciation, he presented four of the parishioners who helped in the renovations with certificates for service “beyond the call of duty.” Parishioners of both parishes spent the rest of the afternoon getting to know one another, and their new shepherd. n

‘Partyopolis’ always something cookin’ at st. nicholas church!

Father Robert Halus, pastor of St. Nicholas Church in Perryopolis, Pa. happily shares photos of several recent events at his parish, located about 32 miles south of Pittsburgh. n On Sunday, May 4, the St. Nicholas parish family celebrated with the Yauch family Michelle, Craig, Allie, and Molly - as Molly received the Mystery of Reconciliation for the first time, after which she joyfully received the Eucharist.

Holupky were rolled by the dozen by a crew of parishioners for the May 17 parish fundraiser sale, including Monica Bednar, Leslie Uhren and Ed Hoholick.

Enjoying the Mother’s Day Breakfast are (clockwise from left): Pauline Karbowsky, Diane Hoenshel, Francine DeSimone, Dennis DeSimone, Marlene Pritts, Margaret Machupa, Francis Dzara, Becky Dzara.

Pictured are four of the cooks for the Sunday May 11 Mother’s Day Breakfast (from left): Greg Gondura, Craig Yauch, Dave Timko, Harry Novak.

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sunday, july 27, 2014

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Saturday, Sunday, Sundae

Summer fun in USC

1 reconciliation st

Christine Cody

On Saturday, June 28, Reaghan Cody, 8, received the Holy Mystery of Reconciliation for the first time. During the Divine Liturgy on June 29, she received the Holy Mystery of the Eucharist as a newly reconciled Byzantine Catholic at St. George Church in Aliquippa, Pa. Following the Ambon Prayer, she was presented with a certificate, an icon of the Theotokos, and chotki (prayer beads).

Afterward, a cake was served in her honor in the Parish Center. She is pictured above with then-pastor Father David Bosnich.

st. gregory’s keeps the events coming

by Father Valerian Michlik, pastor

fun in the sun

As part of the “Fun in the Sun” summer program, parishioners of St. Gregory Byzantine Catholic Church in Upper St. Clair, Pa. gathered on Sunday, June 29 at Sunset Golf located in South Park Township.

The threat of showers and thunderstorms did not stop us from being part of an evening of miniature golf with fellow parishioners. Once the event began, we were blessed with good weather and lots of fun as we faced 27 challenging holes. We express our sincere thanks to the Greek Catholic Union, who provided a fraternal grant to sponsor all of the children and teens attending this fun event.

i scream . . .

celebrating our nation’s birthday

Lisa Miller

Three teens of St. George Church took on the task of raising funds for their trip to the ByzanTEEN Youth Rally (June 10-13 in Emmittsburg, Md.). On the first Sundays of June and July (Youth Sundays), the teens held ‘Sundae Sunday’ following Divine Liturgy. For a donation, while donning ByzanTEEN soda shop hats, they prepared gourmet sundaes on the patio for parishioners to enjoy. They also sold delicious cookies to take home. The treats were enjoyed by all! Because of the generosity of parishioners along with a donation from the Greek Catholic Union, the trip was nearly fully funded. The trio has one more Sundae Sunday planned for August 3.

On Sunday, July 6, special prayers of thanksgiving and blessings for our nation under God were offered at St. Gregory Church.

Following the singing of “God Bless America,” parishioners gathered in the church hall for an ice cream party, hosted by Greek Catholic Union Lodge 52. Decorated in patriotic colors, the hall was filled with faithful as T-shirts for the upcoming ByzanTEEN Youth Rally were presented to St. Gregory’s ByzanTEENs. The parish family looks forward to more upcoming summer events which bring us together. n

Pictured above: Connie Hersh makes a donation to the approval of ByzanTEENs Megan Boboige, Nathaniel Hersh, and ECF Coordinator Jo Ann Hersh.

Pictured below: Alex Hersh and Nathaniel Hersh prepare sundaes for St. George parishioners.

Louisa Hersh

Helena Mercolini enjoys her ice cream treat with her mom, Lara Mercolini.

BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY Sundays 9:00 a.m. • WEDO Radio • 810 AM Broadcast live from Holy Ghost Church, McKees Rocks

OR via Internet: click “Listen Live” link at www.holyghost-byzantinecatholic.org

Displaying his new rally T-shirt, Zach Ali is ready for the ByzanTEEN Youth Rally.

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photos by Jennifer Kehm

parish news page 8

continued sunday, july 27, 2014

Five more years to a century

avella parish celebrates 95th anniversary

No candles, just blessings and good wishes as St. John the Baptist Church in Avella, Pa. celebrates 95 years of faith and tradition.

by Linda Kortyna

For ninety-five years, members of the parish family of St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church in Avella, Pa. have worshiped the Lord together. On Sunday, June 22, along with their pastor Father Ed Lucas (who also is pastor of St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church in Weirton, W.Va.), the St. John parish community celebrated this 95th anniversary event with a special Divine Liturgy of Thanksgiving commemorating the Patronal Feastday of St. John the Baptist [June 24]. A celebratory picnic followed. Parish vocation Sister Susan Harvey, OSBM joined the parish family along with Sister Euphemia to celebrate this milestone.

In the early 1900s, many people came to America in

search of a better life. The promise of work in the Avella coal mines attracted Rusyns from the Carpathian Mountains of Eastern Europe to the area.

These people had a deep love for God and wanted to worship in the Greek Catholic faith of their homeland. After much sacrificing and planning, their dream was realized in 1919 when the ground for the first church was purchased.

In the late 1950s, the parish had outgrown this church, so land was purchased close by to build a new larger church and a parish cemetery. The newlybuilt church of St. John the Baptist was dedicated in 1962.

The parish family still enjoys this beautiful church in which they praise God from whom all blessings flow! n

Father Ed Lucas, administrator of St. John the Baptist Church of Avella, Pa. joins his flock for a photo commemorating the parish’s 95th anniversary.

Father Ed Lucas and St. John’s most “senior” parishioner, Antonina “Minna” Cherenko.

Parish vocation Sister Susan Harvey, OSBM with her brothers, George Harvey, Jr. and Michael Harvey.

A fine crop of graduates

Father Ed and altar servers Chris Peterson and K.J. Rush lead the buffet line.

Ascending to new heights

The high school and college graduates of St. Michael Church, Hermitage, Pa. were recognized at the Sunday, June 22 Divine Liturgy. Each graduate was presented a commemorative gift ion behalf of the parish. A reception in their honor was held following the liturgy. front row, from left: Jason Marriotti, Cori Dowell, Madeline Pochatko, Ann Marie Sieracki second row: Billy Dzuricsko, Ryan Voisey, pastor Father Kevin Marks, Louis Wareham, Joesph Fry. Behind the group are servers server Nickolas Dowell and Nathaniel Dowell). photo by Michael J. Vasil

RUSYN HERITAGE RADIO PROGRAM

Sundays at 2:30 p.m. - WPIT-AM 730 Pittsburgh, PA

On Sunday, June 22, the high school and college graduates of St. Michael Church, Campbell, Ohio were recognized and honored at the Divine Liturgy for their accomplishments. Each was given a gift on behalf of the parish, and a social was held afterward in their honor. Pictured from left: Adam Macala, Stefan Roth, Parish Administrator Father Kevin Marks, Mikayla Vaclav, Kyle Vaclav, Dr. Craig Cusano.

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Giving the gift of life

cathedral blood drive a success * PLEASE NOTE: “Parish Picnic” = parish-only ... “Parish Festival” = open to public

Held July 13, a blood drive sponsored by Greek Catholic Union Lodge 2 at the Cathedral of John the Baptist in Munhall, Pa. yielded many precious pints of life for the benefit of others.

Cathedral Rector Father Dennis Bogda was pleased with the turnout, which, according to Pittsburgh’s Central Blood Bank, was deemed a success. n

Listings provided by pastors/churches of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh.

August

September

St. Mary Holy Protection Church

St. Nicholas Church

Trauger, PA EVENT: Parish Festival DATE: Sun. August 3 TIME: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

INFO: Fr. Paul-Alexander Shutt 724-423-3673 FESTIVAL! Ethnic foods, games of chance, children’s games, bingo, D.J. Music. Held on parish grounds and in St. Mary’s Centre.

Escape the heat & humidity! All roads lead to St. Mary’s Aug. 3 Route 981 in Trauger.

St. Mary Church - Weirton, WV EVENT: Parish Picnic* DATE: Sun. August 10 TIME: 1:00 p.m. to ??

INFO: Fr. Ed: 304-748-2087 Held at Starvaggi Park in Weirton.

Many outdoor kids’ games, swimming, bingo, music. MANY delicious foods & refreshments Famous Ice Cream truck! Guests of parishioners cordially welcome.

St. George Church Aliquippa, Pa. EVENT: Parish Picnic* DATE: Sat. August 16 TIME: 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

INFO: Isabel Maruhnich 724-375-8776 Following a Moleben at 12:00 p.m. the Parish Picnic will take place on Parish grounds. Food, music and games for all parishioners and guests.

St. Nicholas Church

Perryopolis, PA EVENT: Parish Picnic* DATE: Sun. August 17 TIME: 11:00 a.m. to ??

INFO: Fr. Robert Halus 724-736-4344 Parish Picnic - meats and beverages provided by parish; parishioners bring a covered dish; music, fun and games for young and old!

St. Michael Church

Campbell, Ohio EVENT: Parish Picnic* DATE: Sun. August 17 TIME: 12:00 noon - 6:00 p.m.

INFO: Parish Ofc: 330-755-4831 Variety of good foods, music, games, great fun!

Brownsville, PA EVENT: Flea Festival!

DATE: Tues. September 2 thru

Sun. September 6 TIME: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

INFO: Father Jerome: 724-785-7573

Melody Yeardie: 724-785-2801 A huge flea market/rummage sale with wall-to-wall new and gently used items: clothing, toys, small apliances, tools, winterwear, baby items, games, books, housewares, electronics, MUCH, much more!

“Something for everyone.” Bake sale, hot dogs, beverages available for purchase.

SS. Peter & Paul Church

Erie, PA EVENT: 11th Annual

Slavic Festival DATE: Sun. September 14 TIME: 12:00 noon - 7:00 p.m.

INFO: Richard Vasil

814-864-6136

Parish Office

814-825-8140 Delicious and plentiful homemade ethnic foods and baked goods; live music; ethnic dancers; basket raffle, ethnic goods.

St. John the Baptist Church

Uniontown, PA EVENT: 9th Annual

Classic Car Show DATE: Sun. September 28 TIME: 12:00 noon - 4:00 p.m.

Rain or Shine INFO: Church Office:

M-F 724-438-6027 Great food, D.J. Arnie Amber, 50/50, Byzantine Auction. Registration: Noon to 2:00 p.m. Over 25 Trophies awarded - $8 registration fee, 1st 150 cars receive dash plaque.

October St. John the Baptist

Uniontown, PA EVENT: Parish Festival

33rd Annual

Carpatho-Rusyn Celebration DATE: Sun. October 26 TIME: 12:00 noon - 6:00 p.m.

INFO: Church Office: 724-438-6027

M - F 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Ethnic Foods, Baked Goods, Crafts, Raffles, Folk Displays, Music, Demonstrations, Speakers, Children’s Activities, Family Fun, Cooking Demonstration , Slavjane Dancers, Free Admission!

Ascension Church - Clairton, PA EVENT: Parish Picnic* DATE: Sun. September 14 TIME: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

INFO: Fr. Ivan 422-233-7422 Guests are welcome! Ascension parish picnic is held at Clairton Park Pavilion & Lodge (top of Mendelssohn Street). For information, call Fr. Ivan Mina.

St. Gregory Church

Upper St. Clair, PA EVENT: Parish Picnic* DATE: Sun. September 21 TIME: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

INFO: Fr. Valerian

412-835-7800 Following the 9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy, Parish Picnic will take place at the USC McLaughlin Run Road Recreation Center, 1770 McLaughlin Run Rd, Upper St. Clair. Games and music, food and fun! Event marks the official beginning of new school year for St. Gregory’s Church School.

St. Michael Church

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Nick Havrilla, Sr.

Nick Havrilla, Sr.

Hermitage, PA EVENT: Parish Picnic* DATE: Sun. August 24 TIME: 12:00 noon - 6:00 p.m.

INFO: Fr. Kevin: 724-981-6680 Ethnic foods, games, music, great fun! Sweet Summer raffles.

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sunday, july 27, 2014

thoughts for our day

by Archpriest David M. Petras

the reality of the resurrection In the last article [The Resurrection of Jesus — July 6, 2014 BCW], we discussed the witness that the apostles gave to the Resurrection of Jesus.

This is the well-spring of our faith.

Though there were variations in their witness, there was also remarkable agreement. A scholar, N. T. Wright, recently summed up these agreements: “All four (gospels) agree that the key events took place early in the morning on the first day of the week and the third day after Jesus’ execution.

All four agree that Mary Magdalene was at the tomb; Matthew, Mark and Luke agree that another woman was there, too, and Mark and Luke add others.

All agree that the stone was an apparent problem, but that the problem was solved without the women having to do anything. All agree that an unusual stranger, an angel or near equivalent, met and spoke to the women.

Matthew and John agree that Mary Magdalene then met Jesus (Matthew, of course, has the other Mary there, too).

All except Mark agree that Mary (and the other women, if they are mentioned) go off to tell the male disciples; Luke and John agree that Peter and another disciple then go to the tomb to see for themselves.”

(Resurrection Son of God, location 13596) Jesus first appears to the “myrrh-bearing women.”

This is interesting, as in Jewish law, the witness of women was not acceptable in court. Here, though, they are the first witnesses, possibly because they were faithful to Jesus to the foot of the Cross, while the apostles fled. Then he appears to the disciples. St. Paul mentions an appearance to five hundred at once. The appearances are to believers.

St. Peter observes: “This man (Jesus) God raised (on) the third day and granted that

he be visible, not to all the people, but to us (emphasis mine), the witnesses chosen

by God in advance, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. (Acts 10:40-41)” Jesus does not return to daily life with his followers. He is glorified, he appears through locked

“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit . . .

— Matthew 28:18-20 doors, he is not recognized by the disciples at Emmaus, nor

by Mary Magdalene.

In all these appearances, the true bodily resurrection is affirmed. The disciples were not naive primitives, but were as intelligent as we are. They knew the difference between a psychological hallucination, a “ghost,” as it were, (see Luke 24:37-39) and a real physical human being. And they attested to that in their witness. This is especially true in the Gospel of St. John, who often seems to have to refute the heresy of Docetism, that Jesus only had the appearance of a human being, a fundamental denial of the Incarnation. This is seen in the story of Thomas, who touches his physical body (John 20:27). The body is glorified, it retains the wounds but they no longer harm him. Then in the last chapter addition, Jesus shares bread and fish with his disciples (John 21:13-14). He also does so in the Gospel of St. Luke , sharing a meal with the disciples in Emmaus, and then in Jerusalem: “He showed them his hands and his feet .... They gave him a piece of baked fish; he took

it and ate it in front of them.

(Luke 24:40.42) In these appearances, Jesus gives a mission to the apostles, and also gives them the gift of the Spirit to accomplish the mission. Particularly in the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, Jesus tells the apostles they are to be witnesses, and promises them the gift of the Spirit, the power to fulfill their charge. In John he gives them the Holy Spirit, the power to forgive sins. In the longer form, Mark condenses the mission according to Matthew. He also promises that they will be able to perform signs, “they will drive out demons, they will speak new languages (cf. the Pentecost experience). They will pick up serpents (cf. Paul on Malta, Acts 28:3-6), and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them. They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover. (Cf. Mark 6:5) (Mark 16:17-18)” The classic mission is in the Gospel of St. Matthew: “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.

And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20) Here is the true “mission statement” of the Church. In Luke, the “power” is the gift of the Spirit. Again, though there are variations, there is a similarity in the mission: witness - teaching - the power of the Spirit.

The glorification of the Lord is also shown in the stories of Mary Magdalene and the meal in Emmaus. I suspect there was a Gospel message being taught here. Mary Magdalene recognizes the Lord when he speaks her name. This makes us think of John 10:3, “He call his own sheep by name and leads them out.” At Emmaus, the two disciples recognize Jesus when he breaks bread.

For the apostolic Church,

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the eucharist was called the “breaking of the bread,” and the faithful recognize the body of our Lord in the bread of Communion. Our Divine Liturgy, therefore, is a fulfillment of the Last Supper.

The appearances of Jesus culminate in his return to the Father in glory. This theme is common to the four Gospels.

In Luke’s account, the ascension of Jesus into glory takes place on Mt. Olivet in the presence of the disciples.

The Acts of the Apostles specifies that it took place on the fortieth day. Mark also has an Ascension, no place or time specified. Matthew has a scene of glorification, but no physical ascension as such, but a promise that Jesus would always be with his disciples. John has no glorification scene, but he does tell Mary Magdalene, “I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” (John 20:17) Here Jesus makes us adopted children of God. The Gospels, then, give overwhelming witness to the Resurrection: the tomb is empty, Jesus appears to various believers, he is present in a physical body. However, he does not remain in human society, but returns to glory with the Father. The teaching of the Church is that as God, he never left the bosom of the Father. As the Word of God, he takes human nature and is incarnate in the womb of Mary. At the end, in his glorification, he returns to the Father in his human nature, thereby deifying our nature and giving us the hope of resurrection. He remains with us now by the presence of the Holy Spirit. Just as in the power of the Spirit, he was incarnate in the womb of Mary, so now he is present in the Eucharist. n

sunday, july 27, 2014

page 11

fallen asleep in the lord

fallen asleep in the lord

Sister Thomasine, OSBM

Father Joseph Kapusnak

A few weeks short of her 90th birthday, on the morning of Monday, July 7, Sister Thomasine (Irene) Gernat peacefully entered into the embrace of the Lord Jesus whom she served with such devotion for 67 years. The daughter of the late John and Anna (Gaydos) Gernat, Sister Thomasine was born in Florence, Pa. She entered the Sisters of St. Basil from SS. Peter and Paul Byzantine Catholic Church in Punxsutawney, Pa. on Oct. 14, 1947. She pronounced her First Vows on Aug. 15, 1949 and made her Perpetual Profession on Aug. 28, 1953 in the presence of (the late) Bishop Daniel Ivancho.

Sister Thomasine spent the first 20 of her 67 years as a Sister of St. Basil in the teaching ministry. Concurrent with some of these years, she was also called to be the Province Treasurer, a service which she offered with dedication for over ten years. Sister Thomasine was then called to another but similar duty at Mount Macrina Manor. At the Manor, she initially worked as Bookkeeper in the Accounting Department. However, her talents and industrious spirit did not go unnoticed, and so the position of Assistant Administrator was added to her responsibilities. After a sabbatical year following these years of active duty, Sister Thomasine undertook a complete change of ministry and spent the remaining years of her active ministry at the House of Prayer, where her quiet presence and willingness to take on a variety of jobs will not be forgotten by those who knew her. The last three years of her life were spent by Sister Thomasine as a resident of the Manor, this time being cared for rather than being in the service of others.

In her personal request form, Sister Thomasine noted that she would want to be remembered for her love for prayer, for her family and for children. Her nieces and nephews and their families could surely testify to the latter. Sister Thomasine also enjoyed working with money, and this was surely borne out in most of her life’s work. At the Parastas service, Father John Petro offered some reflections on Sister Thomasine’s life as he knew her. She, like all of us, was challenged to become the unique person God called into being. Her uniqueness

Rev. Father Joseph Kapusnak, 79, pastor of St. Stephen Byzantine Catholic Church, Leisenring, Pa. and a priest of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, fell asleep in the Lord Monday, July 7, at Mount St. Macrina Manor, Uniontown, Pa. He was born August 11, 1934 in Johnstown, Pa., a son of (the late) Michael & Anna (Teplicky) Kapusnak.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings Michael, Martin, Nicholas, John, Stephen, Helen, Julia and Mary Kapusnak, Anna Bubalo and Betty Brown.

He is survived by a sister, Sister Margaret Kapusnak, OSBM of Mount St. Macrina, Uniontown.

Father Joseph grew up in Johnstown and attended St. Mary Greek Catholic School in Johnstown. He graduated from Johnstown Catholic High School in 1952 and was a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Delaware Valley College in 1961. Ordained to the Priesthood, March 25, 1966 by Bishop Nicholas T. Elko D.D., Father Joseph’s parochial assignments included: St. Mary Parish, Johnstown (deacon,1965); Holy Ghost Parish, McKees Rocks, Pa. (assistant, 1966-1968); SS. Peter & Paul Parish, Duquesne, Pa. (assistant, 1968); St. Mary Parish in Sabraton, W.Va. and St. Nicholas Parish, Bobtown, Pa. (administrator, 1968-1971); St. Mary Parish, Bradenville, Pa. (pastor, 1971-1973); St. Michael Parish, Sheffield, Pa. (pastor,1973-1996); St. Nicholas and St. George parishes, Youngstown, Ohio (pastor and administrator, 1996-1997), St. Nicholas Parish, Perryopolis, Pa. (pastor, 1997-1999) and St. Stephen

was manifested in a variety of ways. In particular, her eye for detail, for getting things done properly; “crossing the t’s and dotting the i’s” was a mark of whatever duty engaged her at the moment.

Although somewhat reserved, quiet and unassuming in manner, Sister Thomasine also had a sense of humor and could be quite engaging.

In her ministry at Mount St. Macrina’s House of Prayer, she preferred to be in the background, helping in the kitchen. In later years, however, she became willing to engage in conversation with those who came for retreat or days of prayer, and she was found to be a compassionate listener.

Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla, in his homily for Sister Thomasine’s Funeral Divine Liturgy, noted that as the Gospel proclaimed, Sister Thomasine “has passed from death to life.” Having delayed his trip to Gettysburg to be present for the funeral, Archbishop compared her sense of duty and getting things done to James Longstreet, general in the Confederate army during the Civil War. Although he openly disagreed with General Lee’s tactics at the Battle of Gettysburg, he did his duty and supervised the disastrous infantry assault known as Pickett’s Charge.

While we may not be called to such dramatic measures in our lives, Archbishop William related, we, too, like Sister Thomasine, can “soldier up” and go forward in God’s service.

Sister Thomasine was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Basil and John, and sisters Mary Gernat and Catherine Wesdock. In addition to her Sisters in community, she is survived by her devoted sisters Margaret Dubensky, Martha Rumbosky and Donna Jean Damson and many beloved nieces and

nephews and their families.

The Parastas service was celebrated at the Monastery Chapel Wednesday, July 9 by Very Rev. Archpriest Eugene P. Yackanich; concelebrants included: Very Rev. Archpriest John G. Petro, Very Rev. James Spontak, Rev. Robert Oravetz, and Rev. Michael Huszti, Monastery Chaplain.

In attendance were Very Rev. Ronald Larko and Rev. James Ragan. Visitation continued afterwards until 8:30 p.m. The Funeral Divine Liturgy was

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Parish, Leisenring (1997 until his passing). Archieparchial appointments and offices held

by Father Joseph included: Priests’ Senate, Pension Board, Personnel Board, Office of Religious Education Instructor, Spiritual Director, BCW Contributor of Series and Articles, Renewal and Revitalization Commission, Clergy Formation Task Force, Keynote Speaker-Catechetical Congress and Dean of North Central Deanery 1982-1996, appointed by Archbishop Stephen Kocisko and renewed

by Archbishops Thomas and Judson.

Visitation was held Thursday July 10 from 2 until 9 p.m. in St. Stephen Byzantine Catholic Church, Leisenring, where the Service for a Priest was celebrated at 7:30 p.m. The Funeral Divine Liturgy was celebrated Friday July 11 at 10:30 a.m. with Archbishop William C. Skurla as celebrant. Interment followed in Mount St. Macrina Cemetery, Uniontown. n In blessed repose, grant O Lord, eternal rest to your departed servant, the priest Joseph and remember him forever!

celebrated Thursday, July 10

by Metropolitan Archbishop William. Concelebrants were Very Rev. Archpriest Dennis Bogda, Very Rev.Archpriest John Petro and Rev. Michael Huszti. In attendance were Very Rev. Ronald Larko and Rev. Stephen Wahal. Interment followed in the Dormition Section of Mount Macrina Cemetery. n May God grant to his handmaiden, Sister Thomasine, eternal memory and peaceful repose.

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sunday, july 27, 2014

Flowers for remembrance

around the archeparchy FLEA MARKET & BAKE SALE - St. John Cathedral Center, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, Pa. 15120. Sponsored by St. John Cathedral Cameo Club.

THREE days: Friday, Aug. 1, 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.; Saturday - Sunday Aug. 2 - 3, 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Event will be held indoors, rain or shine. For more info call 412-464-1666.

FLEA MARKET - St. Gregory of Nazianzus Church, 2005 Mohawk Rd. (Brookside Farms), Upper St. Clair , Pa. 15241. Saturday, August 9 from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Kitchen and household items, holiday, jewelry, purses, small furniture, lamps, home décor, baby items, infant and children’s clothing, toys, books, CDs and DVDs, linens, sports equipment, much more! For more information, call the parish rectory at 412-835-7800.

ALL YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET Sponsored by St. Mary’s Youth Group. St. Mary’s Center, Route 981 in Trauger, Pa. Sunday, Aug. 10, 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Adults $6; Children 5-10 $3; ages 4 and under FREE. For information call Laurie at 724-423-7396.

With the help of Basilian Associates Gerry Dorobish and Laura Patterson Santore, Associate Helen Hopey undertook the loving task of purchasing and placing flowers at the graves of every Basilian Sister in the Dormition section of Mount St. Macrina Cemetery in Uniontown, Pa. At the time of the project in late Summer 2013 – just in time for the annual Pilgrimage – Helen and her sister Associates adorned 93 graves. The Cemetery at Mount St. Macrina is the site of the annual Parastas service during the Pilgrimage in Honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. The 2014 service is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 30 at 7:30 p.m., and will be followed by the traditional Candlelight Procession and Akathist to Our Lady of Perpetual Help.

The full schedule of events for the Aug. 30-31 pilgrimage will appear in the Aug. 17 issue of The BCW. n

Official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh

Byzantine Catholic Press Associates

OPEN HOUSE - The Slavjane Folk Ensemble is accepting new members for the 2014-2015 season. An Open House event will be held Saturday, Sept. 6 at the group’s spiritual and physical headquarters, Holy Ghost Church, 225 Olivia Street, McKees Rocks, PA 15136. Father Frank Firko, the group’s Spiritual Advisor and pastor of Holy Ghost Church, extends a cordial invitation to all to attend the 4:00 p.m. celebration of Divine Liturgy that day. Following the service, the social hall will be open to meet and greet group members, parents, and directors at a potluck open-house picnic, where Slavjane will entertain guests with a brief impromptu performance. Directors, officers and parents will be on hand to answer questions about joining. Come and see what Slavjane is all about and how the group keeps Rusyn and Slavic traditions alive through performance. There is no charge, but attendees are most welcome to bring a dessert to share. For more information on Slavjane’s open house picnic or how to join the group, contact Program Director Dean Poloka at 412-877-9351 or e-mail dean.poloka@gmail.com.

NURSING COURSE - Nurses who are interested in serving their parish in Bethany Ministry are invited to take the Parish Nurse Preparation Course Sept. 12-13 and Oct. 3-4. Partial scholarships are available. 34 CEUs will be awarded upon completion of the 4-day course. For more information about the course or about Bethany Ministry, contact Dorothy Mayernik at 412-232-7151 or dmayernik@ pmhs.org.

CARPATHO-RUSYN VATRA and Rusyn-Slovak picnic. Sponsored by the Carpatho-Rusyn Society Youngstown-Warren (Ohio) chapter. Saturday, Sept. 13, begins at noon til 8:00 p.m. rain or shine at Infant of Prague Byzantine Catholic Church, 7754 South Avenue, Boardman, OH 44512. Divine Liturgy at 6:00 p.m.

Ethnic foods and music, genealogy and sales tables. Kitchen opens at noon.

dates to remember august 6 Feast of the Holy Transfiguration of Our Lord

Chancery Closed

66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Tel: 412.231.4000 Fax: 412.231.1697 E-mail: bcw@archpitt.org Web site: www.archpitt.org

august 15 Feast of the Dormition of the Holy Theotokos

next issue date:

september 1 Labor Day

august 17

submissions deadline: august 5

Chancery Closed

august 30 & 31 Pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Mount St. Macrina - Uniontown, Pa.

Chancery Closed september 14 Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross Celebration of Marriage - Annual Liturgy and Dinner

St. Elias Church - Munhall, Pa.

See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org the byzantine catholic world