THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHEPARCHY OF PITTSBURGH
a celebration of marriage
Inside
Fifty couples honored at St. Elias in Munhall, Pa. Pages 8 to 9
VOL. 63 NO. 11
monastery visit Pittsburgh Byzantine Catholic Young Adults travel to Burton, Ohio Page 11
OCTOBER 2018
golden jubilee
Sister Mary Martha Kacmarek, OSB celebrates in Warren, Ohio Page 15
Assembly 2018 concern for our future: renew, revitalize, rejuvenate
Priests, deacons, sisters and parish representatives at the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh’s Assembly 2018 gather following a morning Divine Liturgy on Sept. 17. The three-day Assembly asked participants to develop action plans to ensure the vitality of the Church into the 21st Century. Photo by David Mayernik Jr. by David Mayernik Jr. Editor
Now the hard work begins. Following three days of brainstorming at the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh's Assembly 2018, action plans to grow the Church and ensure its vitality into the 21st century will begin to be put into practice in its 73 parishes during the coming months. The Assembly, held Sept. 16 to 18 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa., brought together more than 150 priests, deacons, sisters and faithful. Its theme — "Concern for Our Future: Renew, Revitalize, Rejuvenate" — asked those gathered to address the needs of the Church by examining
Pilgrimage 2018
See pages 6 to 7 for a story and photos on the 84th Pilgrimage in Honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Sept. 1 to 2 at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa.
issues of education, social ministry and outreach to encourage new and renewed interest. From reviving ECF programs and posting videos of homilies on Facebook to selling pirohi at community events and sending care packages to students, many ideas will go from the drawing board to reality: n Deacon Ray Zadzilko of SS. Peter and Paul in Patton, Pa., said he wants to be part of his church's effort to offer adult education classes on the Divine Liturgy and offer outreach to nearby St. Francis Universiy and Mount Aloysius College. "We concentrated on what was doable,” he said. n Nick Kotik, of Holy Ghost Story continued on page 4
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OCTOBER 2018
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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 monthly (12 issues) plus two seasonal special issues
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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. the byzantine catholic world
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from the office of the metropolitan
Statement on the Report of the Pennsylvania Grand Jury September 5, 2018 We, as members of the Catholic Church in Pennsylvania, cannot help but be profoundly saddened by the revelations of child abuse committed by clergy and the response or lack thereof of diocesan officials described in the recent Pennsylvania Grand Jury report issued after its investigation of six Pennsylvania Roman Catholic dioceses. The Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh was not included in the Pennsylvania Grand Jury's investigation. The Archeparchy is a separate church and is relatively small both in the number of parishes and clergy and in the number of parishioners when compared with those Roman Catholic dioceses that were investigated. The Archeparchy's experience is that relatively few allegations of sexual abuse of children have been received. It is the policy of the Archeparchy to report all allegations of sexual abuse of children to the proper civil authorities regardless of when such alleged abuse occurred. It is recognized that the civil authorities are better suited to investigating such allegations and proceeding with any warranted prosecution. Consistent with the policy of the Archeparchy to report all allegations of sexual abuse of children to the proper civil authorities regardless of when such alleged abuse occurred, the Archeparchy had already notified the appropriate law enforcement/district attorneys of such allegations it received prior to the Pennsylvania Grand Jury's report. And, in each such instance, the Archeparchy provided pertinent information and offered to be of any further assistance. The Archeparchy is committed to continuing to report to appropriate law enforcement any such allegations that it receives. Further, reported allegations are also reviewed by the Safe Environment Board of the Archeparchy for recommendations of canonical actions in compliance with 2002 The Charter for the Protection of Children. The Archeparchy and I offer heartfelt compassion for all who have been victimized by any clergy. I am truly sorry that any clergy has betrayed and abused the trust of the faithful and, particularly, the trust of children. The Archeparchy stands ready to assist victims. Those in need should contact the Archeparchy's Victim Assistance Coordinator, Dr. Courtney Minerd: 724-504-9588 or courtneym.ryan@gmail.com. For further information for the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh Safe Environment Program, connect to the website at http:// www.archpitt.org/victims-assistance/. The Archeparchy is committed to providing a safe environment for all children in its churches, programs, and activities. Such commitment involves education, continued training to reinforce appropriate behaviors, and mandated reporting by all clergy, employees, and volunteers who come into contact with children. The Archeparchy shall continue to be vigilant and will not waiver in its obligation to provide a safe, welcoming, and prayerful place for those who seek Christ.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend William C. Skurla, D.D. Metropolitan Archbishop of Pittsburgh
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OCTOBER 2018
concern for our future: renew, revitalize, rejuvenate
Assembly 2018
continued from page 1 in McKees Rocks, Pa., said his church wants to develop a team of 10 people and a "bullpen" of others to head programs. "We're like the (Pittsburgh) Pirates. We're rebuilding...until we have a team, we can't accomplish anything." n Dave Ragan, who represented St. Mary and St. George, both in Youngstown, Ohio, plans to help with a photo "drive" for a digital library to better understand family histories and familial relationships. The church is already digitizing sacramental records. Metropolitan Archbishop William Skurla said attendees should figure out "what works" in their parish. "In my evaluation of a meeting like this, if we learn one or two things it's a pretty good meeting, if we learn three things it's a real good meeting. I think most of you will go back to your parishes with at least three ideas — if not 10, 20 or 30 ideas. "Develop those ideas to renew and revitalize your parishes." Helen Kennedy, of St. Mary in Bradenville, Pa., is a member of the Archeparchy's Commission for Renewal and Revitalization, directed by Archbishop William to organize the Assembly. Despite sobering statistics such as a drop in elementary students attending ECF classes from 1,185 in 2002-03 to 451 in 2017-18, according to the Office of Religious Education, Helen never says the word "concern" without adding "hope.” "We are in challenging times. Every single person makes a difference." Featured speakers during the
Assembly were Father Jason Charron, pastor of Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Carnegie, Pa.; and Very Rev. Father Lawrence DiNardo, vicar general and general secretary of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh. Father Lawrence, pastor of Holy Wisdom Parish on Pittsburgh's North Side, is an expert on change. As of Oct. 15, he will be pastor of six North Side churches in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh as part of its restructuring effort. His flock will grow from 985 to 4,000 parishioners. Father Lawrence, a priest for 37 years, discussed "Growing the Church into the Future" by quoting poet and theologian John Henry Newman: "To live is to change, and to be perfect is to have changed often." He told those assembled the Church is built by relationships with one another and evangelization is a function of every baptized person. "What we're doing here right now is building the body of Christ." Father Jason talked of a disciple-making model, as he called for everyone to take responsibility for the Church. "That's how our churches will grow... this is the time that calls for that perseverance." In coming months, the Commission will reach out to parishes for updates on their action plans and ask for formal feedback reports in Jan. 2019. "Now we have to take it back and enact it," Deacon Denny Prestash, a member of the Commission, said. "It's time for our Byzantine Church to rise here and now. This is where it starts." n
Archbishop William Skurla addresses attendees at the conclusion of the three-day Assembly 2018 on Sept. 18.
FYI
The Archeparchy’s Commission for Renewal and Revitalization was established by Metropolitan Judson Procyk in 2002. Metropolitan Archbishop William Skurla, who chairs the Commission, directed it to organize the Assembly for the 73 parishes in the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh. Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich, Archpriest Dennis Bogda, Very Reverend Ronald Larko, Helen Kennedy, Deacon Dennis Prestash and Deacon Raymond Zadzilko serve as members. In June 2004, Archbishop Basil Schott reached out to parishioners of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Archeparchy of Pittsburgh asking them to complete a five-page Revitalization Survey asking about various aspects of parish life and soliciting their concerns and suggestions. The survey disclosed a Church population of almost one-half above the age of 70. Over the years since this survey was conducted, the population has continued to decline. The current Commission reviewed the 2004 Revitalization Survey; the results of the Parish Census and Financial Reports Analysis of October 2011; the results of a Questionnaire for the Synod of October 2015; and comments from the Pittsburgh Archeparchy returned with the Questionnaire. Upon review of all of the data from 2004 to 2017, the Commission identified topics addressed at the Assembly. the byzantine catholic world
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text messages
Concern, hope by David Mayernik Jr. Editor
Helen Kennedy
Father Jason Charron
Assembly 2018 moved to Pittsburgh’s three rivers on the evening of Sept. 17 for a sight-seeing cruise on the Gateway Clipper
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I think it’s human nature to believe you’re the only person who has ever endured a troubling situation, whether it be at home, school, or work. As I listened to priests, deacons and faithful from the Archeparchy’s 73 churches for three days during Assembly 2018 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa., I had the feeling I distinctly heard this bubble of isolation burst. Everyone recognized they weren’t the only church dealing with issues of declining membership and other struggles. But, as Helen Kennedy remarked, there is never “concern” without “hope.” I think Assembly 2018 can galvanize a new sense of mission, hope and strength needed to tackle the effort to renew and revitalize the Byzantine Catholic Church head-on — and not a half-hearted tackle such as we’ve seen far too often this season from the Pittsburgh Steelers. Many parish representatives detailed action plans to jumpstart ECF and adult education classes, reach out to wayward parishioners and get their church’s name out in their community through events and the internet. “We’re going parishioner hunting,” Mike Lashinsky, of St. John the Baptist in Scottdale, Pa., told those gathered at the Assembly. “We don’t care why you left. We want you back.” During his closing remarks of the Assembly, Deacon Denny Prestash asked: How does a priest guard Holy Communion and the Church? “Does he put walls around it? Does he hide it? No, he shares it with the people. He offers it to the people so the people can grow, develop and connect with God,” he said. “This is just not the job for the clergy. Christ told us we are the light of the world, each and every one of us, and that light can’t help anybody if it’s put under a basket. “The Church can’t help people if we hide it from them... Now it’s your turn, to take your action plans and share them with your church and with the world.” n
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OCTOBER 2018
Pilgrimage on the Mount by David Mayernik Jr. Editor
Sister Ruth Plante, Provincial, Sisters of the the Order of St. Basil the Great at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa., told pilgrims to the 84th annual Pilgrimage on Sept. 1 she still runs to her mother. “I know that even now that my mom is in Eternity. When I get all stressed out and I’m running around like a crazy lady and I can’t find my keys and I’m supposed to be somewhere in five minutes, I just call out to my mom and she comes to my help because she still doesn’t like to see me cry,” she said. “We’ve all done that, we’ve all run to our moms for consolation, for advice, for courage. This is why you’re here today. Because your Heavenly Mother brought you here. You could be home in your air-conditioned living room with a nice cold iced tea — or a beer — but here you are in this hot, humid weather.” Her address opened the 84th Pilgrimage in Honor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Sept. 1 to 2. The Pilgrimage weekend included Divine Liturgies, opportunities to receive the Mystery of Reconciliation, Children’s Pilgrimages, enrichment sessions, and a candlelight procession beginning and ending at the Mother of God Shrine. "Today we begin a whole new liturgical year and if we look back, it certainly has been quite a year, hasn't it? Filled with all
kinds of stress. We look at our government, we look at our officials, every day a new scandal, new problems. We know in our our church, we have things we need to deal with,” she said. "We look at society, we have children being killed, violence, we have drug addiction, opioid problems. Everywhere we look there are major, major concerns and crises. "Even though some of those are 'out there,' they still find their way in 'here'," pointing to her heart. She told pilgrims the stress of daily life necessitates a “run to our mothers.” "So we bring all of that with us as we come to pray today and tomorrow duiring this Pilgrimage. And so, what do we do with all this? "Well, we do what we've always done: Go and run to our moms, we run to our mothers; our Heavenly Mother, the hope of all generations. I invite pilgrims to find a quiet place, sit down and talk to your Heavenly Mother.” Sister Ruth said it’s a way to be spiritually refreshed and face the new liturgical year with more courage and enthusiasm. "Unburden yourself. Let Her know everything that's in your heart, all the baggage that perhaps you bring with you, and ask Her for Her help. And you know that She will be glad to embrace you in her love and to also encourage you and support you in whatever is there in your heart." n
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st. elias in munhall, pa.
A Celebration of Marriage Fifty couples were recognized for many years of faithfulness to their marriage vows Sept. 9 during “A Celebration of Marriage� at St. Elias in Munhall, Pa. The occasion honored couples from parishes in the Archeparchy with significant anniversaries from 10 to 65 years in 2018. The afternoon Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Archbishop William Skurla. n
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OCTOBER 2018
GCU LODGE 390
Lending a helping hand by Steve Puluka GCU Lodge 390
This summer, GCU Lodge 390, in cooperation with three parishes, launched a collection program for the Pittsburgh Fisher House, which provides accommodations and general living supplies for the families of those receiving treatment at VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. They have an ongoing need to replenish the supplies used. Holy Ghost, Northside, Pittsburgh, Pa.; St. Andrew, Gibsonia, Pa.; and Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa.; all stepped up and collected more than $2,000 worth of much-needed materials. Fisher House was most grateful to receive the delivery from Lodge 390 President Tina Burns on Aug. 8. n
st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa.
Honoring our grandparents Children’s Story Time by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
Grandparents hold a unique place in our children’s lives, so it seems proper to honor them on a special day. This took place at St. Gregory on the weekend of Sept. 8 to 9. As part of this celebration, prayerful suppli-
cations were offered, followed by a special blessing bestowed upon all the grandparents at the end of the Divine Liturgy. Following the Divine Liturgy, we continued with this celebration in our Church hall with refreshments and fellowship. n
by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa.
Wrapping up the summer at St. Gregory, we offered Children’s Story Time on Aug. 24. The stories themed around
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school, friends, manners, and inclusion. Then all the kids decorated popsicle stick picture frames and had a snack. Blessings to all our children as they begin the new school year! n
OCTOBER 2018
parish news
pittsburgh byzantine catholic young adults
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A visit to Christ the Bridegroom Monastery
by David Donohoe Pittsburgh Byzantine Catholic Young Adults
The Pittsburgh Byzantine Catholic Young Adult group traveled Aug. 26 to Christ the Bridegroom Monastery in Burton, Ohio to meet the Sisters and tour the Monastery. Natalia Wohar, a student from Duquesne University, graciously organized the trip. One man came all the way from Western Ohio, a three-hour(!) car drive. One family came from Beaver County. A group from Pittsburgh carpooled and squeezed into Natalia’s car. Upon arriving, we were greeted with a hugs from the sisters. I certainly felt that we were truly at home and that we truly were all brothers and sisters in Christ. After a quick tour of the Monastery and their library collections, we gathered in their Chapel across the street from the Monastery to prepare our souls and hearts for 9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy. It was celebrated by Father Peter Borza, who was visiting from Slovakia. One of the little ones assisted Father by altar serving. After Divine Liturgy concluded, we went back over to the monastery for a delicious breakfast. The menu included baked oatmeal, breakfast casserole, aussie bites, bread, coffee, tea, and milk. Natalia and Sister Natalia celebrated together their patron feast day of the Holy Martyr Natalia. Sister Natalia also bonded with one woman over a mutu-
al love for podcasts and Blessed Pior Giorgio Frassati. The kids played Jenga and the sisters were amazingly unphased by the occasional screaming. Mother Theodora told us the story about the founding of the Monastery. Additionally, one of the sisters gave us a good recommendation for a Holy Land pilgrimage. After we concluded breakfast with “It is Truly Proper”, Sister Natalia gave us a tour of the poustinia (Russian for “desert”) retreat houses, where retreatants can spend a day or a few days for some quiet and alone time with the Lord. I think a few people got ideas for the site of their next personal retreat. We got a group picture and then went our own ways at around 12:30 p.m., thanking the sisters again for hosting us. Additionally, we bought some of their apple butter — absolutely delicious! I think the secret must be the monastic life. The Pittsburgh Byzantine Catholic Young Adult group is open to any young adult, regardless if he/she is Byzantine. Families and children are welcome, as well. We seek to grow in our love of Our Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ and for the Byzantine faith through community and monthly events. For more information, email Abby Kreckel at abby.kreckel@ gmail.com or “like” us on Facebook at “Pittsburgh Byzantine Catholic Young Adults.” n
st. nicholas in perryopolis, pa.
Summertime memories by Frances Kranik St. Nicholas, Perryopolis, Pa.
St. Nicholas’ annual summer picnic was held Aug. 12 An enjoyable time was had by all who attended. A wide variety of covered dish sides accompanied the hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken cooked on the grill. Games were enjoyed by both children and adults. While others just enjoyed catching up with friends. Father Oleh Seremchuk, pastor, joined right in with what is becoming a tradition: the marshmallow gun battles. n
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church of the resurrection in monroeville, pa.
Car blessing
Special blessing
Father Don Bolls (right) blesses cars on July 22, the Feast of
Victoria Anderson received a special blessing at the end of an August Divine Liturgy, as she prepares to begin her basic training in the U.S. Army.
Elijah, at Church of the Resurrection in Monroeville, Pa. n
Pictured are: Donna Anderson, Victoria’s mother; Father Don Bolls; and Victoria at Church of the Resurrection. n
st. george in aliquippa, pa.
holy ghost in mckees rocks, pa.
Archbishop William Skurla ordained Geoffrey Mackey to the Diaconate July 1 at St. George, Aliquippa, Pa.
by Father Frank Firko Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa.
Deacon ordained Father Deacon Geoffrey serves at St. Nicholas Chapel, Beaver.
Profession of faith On June 28, at the Vigil Divine Liturgy on the Feasts of Peter & Paul, two men, married to Byzantine Catholic wives, made a Profession of Faith. Prior to this, they attended the Holy Mystery of Reconciliation by confessing their sins, were Chrismated, and then received their First Holy Communion. These two men were previously of the Protestant Faith. In the background, Gerald Stebbins (Methodist) and in the foreground, Steven Usouski (Evangelical Lutheran) attended twelve weeks of instructional courses taught by their pastor, Father Firko of Holy Ghost. n During the blessing of vehicles on the Feast of St. Elijah the Tishbite, July 20, something strange and wonderful occurred. Parishioners Tam and Frank Revtai, brought a family member’s boat to be blessed. This is the first time that Father Frank has ever blessed a boat on this Feast Day! n n
n
Father Will Rupp, Father Paul Householder, Deacon Geoffrey Mackey, Archbishop William Skurla, Father Mykhaylo Skyndya, Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich, Father Robert Pipta
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Golden jubilee sister mary martha kacmarek, osb, celebrates 50 years of monastic profession by Sister Barbara Pavlik, OSB Byzantine Benedictine Sisters, Queen of Heaven Monastery, Warren, Ohio
Sister Mary Martha Kacmarek, OSB, a Byzantine Benedictine Sister of Queen of Heaven Monastery in Warren, Ohio, celebrated her Golden Jubilee of monastic profession June 24 at the 11 a.m. Divine Liturgy at SS. Peter and Paul in Warren, Ohio. Metropolitan Archbishop William C. Skurla and Rev. Simeon Sibenik, pastor of SS. Peter and Paul, concelebrated the Divine Liturgy of Thanksgiving. Father Simeon delivered the homily. Clergy present were Monsignor George Appleyard of Clintonville, Pa., and Abbot Leo Schlosser, in-residence at Leisenring, Pa. Mary Beth Byers cantored the Liturgy and Theodore Falatic chanted the Epistle reading. James Basista and John Welch served as acolytes. Along with friends, family, and members of her monas-
tic community, the Oblates of Saint Benedict and several Sisters of St. Basil the Great were also present. Following the Divine Liturgy, all enjoyed a festive dinner at Café 422 in Warren. Almost a dozen members of Sister’s family from the Chicago and Indiana areas were able to be present, including her remaining sibling, Joseph, the oldest of the family. Sister Mary Martha is the youngest of nine children born to the late Joseph and Mary Kacmarek of Chicago. A member of St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church in Chicago, she entered the Benedictine Sisters of the Byzantine Church in Warren in 1966 and made perpetual profession on June 5, 1971. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics from Saint Xavier College in Chicago and a Master of Science degree in mathematics from the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind.
Sister Mary Martha Kacmarek, OSB
Sister Mary Martha has taught classes on the elementary, high school, college and adult levels, including catechetical classes at local Byzantine parishes. For more than 20 years she regularly visited the shut-ins and hospitalized of SS. Peter and Paul. Ministry for her community over the years has included being sub-prioress, community
Photo by Joseph Rudinec
secretary, treasurer, formation team member and monastic council member. Presently her primary ministry is faithfulness to prayer and continuing the responsibility of being community treasurer. May God grant to Sister Mary Martha many happy and blessed years! Mnohaja i blahaja lita! n
eternal memory
Mark your calendar
Brother Thomas Somerfeld, a Brother of the Holy Spirit, fell asleep in the Lord on Sept. 4. He was well known to Byzantine Catholics in the Pittsburgh area, having attended many parish services and activities. Brother Tom was born on August 14, 1942 in Pittsburgh, Pa. to the late Frank and Rose Drozinski Somerfeld. He attended Our Lady of the Lake Seminary Preparatory School in Syracuse, Ind. and St. Joseph College in Philadelphia, Pa., where he earned the BA in Elementary Education with a minor in Psychology. With further study at Southwest University in New Orleans, La., he was awarded the MA degree in psychological counseling. He served as counselor, teacher, therapist and consultant in several schools and treatment centers throughout the country and also at Another Way, a rehabilitation facility at Mount St. Macrina in Uniontown, Pa. Brother Tom is survived by his sister Cathy (Gene) Yarkovich and nieces and nephews. Friends were received at the Jaycox-Jaworski funeral home in McKeesport, Pa. on Sept. 6, with the Parastas celebrated that afternoon by Father Don-
The following events will take place at Mount St. Macrina House of Prayer, 510 W. Main St, Uniontown, Pa. To register for programs or more information, call 724-438-7149.
brother thomas somerfeld
Safety and Well-Being Workshop
Brother Thomas Somerfeld
ald J. Voss. Father Donald also celebrated the funeral Divine Liturgy the next morning at St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church in McKeesport, Pa. Concelebrants were Father Gregory Madea of St. John Ukrainian Catholic Church in McKeesport, Father David Misbrenner of St. Peter of the Fields Church, Rootstown, Ohio, and the following Byzantine Catholic clergy: Monsignor Russell A. Duker, Very Rev. Frank A. Firko, Father Stephen J. Wahal, and Deacon John M. Hanchin. Interment followed at Mount St. Macrina Cemetery. May God grant to His servant Brother Thomas blessed repose and eternal memory! n
n Ron Metros will present "Refuse to Be a Victim" 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Oct. 27. Offering of $40 includes lunch and materials. Register by Oct. 21. Learn how to have a personal safety strategy in place and the techniques and tactics to avoid becoming a victim. Topics covered are: Mental Preparedness, Home Security, Travel Security, Physical Security, Psychology of Criminals, Automotive Security, Cyber Security and Personal Protection.
Tuesday Reading Series n Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick, OSBM presents "Hallowed Be This House" 1011:30 a.m. Oct. 30 and Nov. 6, 13 and 20. Free-will offering. Register by Oct. 23. Discover how to find signs of "Heaven in your Home." (By Thomas Howard)
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Morning Retreat n Christine Freeman presents "Life's Transitions" 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 3. Offering of $35 includes lunch. Register by Oct. 31. Christine, a practicing psychotherapist for 18 years with a bachelor’s degree from Seton Hill, a Master of Divinity from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and a Master of Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh will be guiding us through difficult changes in our lives. Her area of interest is the intersect of Psychology and Spirituality. n Helenanne Hochendoner presents "Prophetesses of Scripture" 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 10. Offering of $35 includes lunch. Register by Nov. 6. n
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thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras
science and religion Today, many people have a concept that religion and science are in conflict. They say — wrongfully — that if you’re going to be a good scientist, you can’t have faith. Science depends on observation and experimentation, and the ability to repeat an experiment with the same results. When you can do this, you have truth, you have touched the way things really are. Then another step is taken. Religion cannot be verified by observation and experimentation, therefore it depends only on making unseen assumptions and is, therefore, superstition rather than “hard truth.” The first part of this concept is correct, you can come to an understanding of how things behave through step one. Part two, however, is the error of “scientism,” that the only reality is what you can apprehend by experimentation. Some embrace this philosophy, and relegate religion to unprovable biased speculation. Scientism, though, does not understand the limitations of science. In doing science, the physicist Werner Heisenberg, a believing Lutheran, said, “What we observe is not nature itself but nature exposed to our method of questioning.” Scientism holds that the only reality there is is what we can apprehend by our bodily sens-
es. The problem with this is that it becomes a new faith in itself, that our senses see, hear and touch everything that exists, and there is nothing more. This is the limitation of human science. We may be able to slowly dig out all the secrets of nature and understand how the universe is put together and how it works, but we cannot understand its foundational intention without faith in
We might say, then, that science answers the questiion “how,” while religion answers the question “why.” the Creator, without knowing God, and without entering into the mysteries of infinity and eternity. Terence Nicholas observed: “Naturalism as a world-view has subtly pervaded the media, books, universities, and school classrooms so that it is now the atmosphere in which we live.” This is a clue to the first misunderstanding that occurs. There is really only one knowledge of truth. However, different realities are apprehended or grasped in different ways. For exam-
ple, we do not learn history by physical experimentation. The question of God is ultimately a “why” question, not a “how” question. This is where most of the modern debate goes wrong. If we say, “God created the universe,” we are not asking “how” the universe was made. Books denouncing the existence of God are usually about the mechanism of how the universe developed over its course of coming to be. David Bentley Hart, an Orthodox believer, writes, “One of the deep prejudices that the age of mechanism instilled in our culture, and that infects our religious and materialist fundamentalisms alike, is a version of the so-called genetic fallacy: to wit, the mistake of thinking to have described a thing’s material history or physical origins is to have explained that thing exhaustively. We tend to presume that if one can discover the temporally prior physical causes of some object — the world, an organism, a behavior, a religion, a mental event, an experience, or anything else — one has thereby eliminated all other causal explanations of that object” (The Experience of God). We don’t know something simply because we know how it works. This is our technological bias. Knowledge exists to make our life better. If we understand how something works, we can make our life better. We may then draw the false conclusion: if we understand how the uni-
verse works, we can dispense with God. This is much like a mother answering her child’s question, “Mother, why are we celebrating Bertie’s birthday by baking a cake?” by handing her a recipe for the cake. This is not about how being works, it is about being itself. We might say, then, that science answers the question “how,” while religion answers the question, “why.” Religion itself is not totally subjective, it does depend on human experience that can be reasoned, observed and described. Faith is our experience of the spiritual that goes beyond strict materialism. To ignore this is to be less than fully human. The truth is, however, that religion and science are not enemies, but simply different ways of knowing truth. Scientists can be, and often are, people of faith. As people of faith, on the other hand, we cannot ignore and dismiss science. In the past, people of religion have sometimes done this, as, for example, in the Middle Ages, of dismissing the idea that the earth goes around the sun because it contradicts a literal reading of some Bible passages. Religion and science are partners in knowledge. Science can hone our ideas of who God is, and religion can give meaning to the existence of the universe. To ignore either is ultimate human folly. n
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, Pa. www.holyghost-byzantinecatholic.org St. John Chrysostom Church, Pittsburgh, Pa. www.sjcbcc.com the byzantine catholic world
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Byzantine Spirituality Conference 2018 The disciples walked with Jesus for three years, shared meals with him, were present during his most difficult moments and yet Peter denied Jesus three times. Disciple-making is a process, quite often a long one that requires constant patience and abandon to the grace of God. This year’s Byzantine Spirituality Conference is designed to help participants identify where God is already present in their lives and how to engage others in their parish community to articulate their Byzantine Catholic faith.
What you need to know The Conference is scheduled for Nov. 10 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, Pa. The title of this year’s Spirituality Conference is: “Parish Life from Maintenance to Discipleship.” Deacon John Evancho will present “The Immigrant Disciple” and “Being a Disciple of Christ Today” and Christopher Russo will present “The Challenge of Discipleship for the Future.”
Meet our presenters Deacon John Evancho earned a Master’s Degree from Harvard Divinity School and Bach
Byzantine Catholic Seminary to host “Come and See” Weekend of Discovery Nov. 2 to 4 Christopher Russo, Deacon John Evancho
elor’s Degrees in Theology from Duquesne University and the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium. He serves at Annunciation Church, Homer Glen, Ill. Deacon John has been a cantor, choir director and catechist for many years. Currently, he serves as the Chief Compliance Officer for the insurer, OSF HealthPlans which is owned and operated by the Sisters of the Third Order of Saint Francis in Peoria. Christopher Russo was selected by Archbishop William Skurla to represent the United States Byzantine Catholic Metropolia at the Pre-Synod for Youth in Rome, March 2018. He graduated from Penn State University in 2016 and works as a research technologist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Christopher helped create a program for young adults entitled “Theosis in Action”. He is the son of Deacon Stephen and Heather Russo of Southbury, Conn. They are members of St. Nicholas in Danbury, Conn. n
Send Name, Phone number, Parish and $35 per person by Nov. 5 Check payable to: Office of Religious Education, 3605 Perrysville Ave., Pittsburgh, PA. 15214 Parish table of 5 or more is $25 per person. Submit together. Information at: www.archpitt.org, link ORE. 412-322-8773
The Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius is pleased to host the “Come and See” Weekend of Discovery Nov. 2 to 4. Invited to this retreat are men, ages 18 to 35, single or married, who may be considering a vocation to the priesthood in the Byzantine Catholic Church. The atmosphere will be prayerful, positive, and fraternal. A past retreatant noted about his experience, “This Retreat was very helpful to me to see how service and community is lived out at the Seminary, and seeing both the difficulties and joys of Seminary and ordained life was powerful for me; watching the Seminarians look out for one another and serve parish communities was a great witness to the gospel.” “Come and See” is a retreat weekend that takes place at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pa. The retreat includes sharing liturgical services and meals with the Seminary community and an introduction to the Seminary formation program. It will also include a tour of the Seminary, gatherings with the seminarians, and witness talks. There is no tuition for this “Come and See” Retreat of Discovery. The retreat, meals,
and lodging are free. The application deadline is Oct. 10, 2018. For more information and to apply, see the Seminary’s website www.bcs.org. The Byzantine Catholic Seminary is a community of mentors, teachers, and students forming leaders for the Church in an environment of Christian unity, integrity, and missionary spirit with a commitment to ecumenism. Founded in 1950, the Byzantine Catholic Seminary is a free-standing, English speaking theological seminary, welcoming all those seeking the knowledge possessed by the Eastern ecclesial traditions. The Seminary is authorized to grant graduate degrees by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools. The Seminary operates as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization incorporated in Pennsylvania, and is governed by a Board of Directors under the leadership of the Metropolitan Archbishop of Pittsburgh. n For more information about this topic, please call the Seminary Office at 412-321-8383 or email at office@bcs.edu.
october is “respect life month”
Pro-Life culture in the church by Father Deacon Paul Boboige Coordinator, Pro-Life Office, Archeparchy of Pittsburgh
"And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise." (Lk 6:31) We have all heard the "Golden Rule" as a basic teaching of Jesus. Indeed, this is the meaning of "pro-life" also stated as "respect for all human life from conception to natural death." This difficult teaching is what makes Christianity stand out from pagan and "Hollywood" cultures. It is timely to emphasize that this teaching is essential within the Church. Unfortunately we have been hearing recently of human failing within the Church, of clerics taking advantage of the laity. With deep
remorse all clergy must reinforce the trust which ordination requires. Our Lord stated, "You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all." (Mk 10:42-44) This being said, we also must remember that our bishops, priests, deacons, nuns and monks deserve our respect and obedience. They are "set apart" to serve the people. Please pray for them. Respect for all human persons is difficult, especially when our human mind "judges" others
because of what we see as disagreeable behavior. We have to remind ourselves that every human person is made "in the image and likeness of God" at the point of conception and that even bad behavior does not erase that image. October is "Respect Life Month" and will soon be upon us. In many towns and cities a "Life Chain" is performed on the first Sunday. People bravely witness through their prayer along the main thorofares that we believe that every life is to be respected. Please seek out this Life Chain in your area and be a witness to God-given life. Some are organized by Catholics; others by Evangelicals. It is a good occasion to gather together as Christians and get to
the byzantine catholic world
know each other better. Your Archeparchial Pro-Life Office has scheduled a day to witness respect for life at Pittsburgh's biggest abortuary, Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania on Liberty Avenue on Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local advocates have organized a 40 Days for Life Campaign, and we will participate on that day with a Moleben for the Sacredness of Life and Supplication for the Victims of Abortion." Please try to join us. Living the Golden rule and following the teaching of respect for human life means more than saying we are "prolife"; we must practice it. Christ is amongst us! n
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OCTOBER 2018
liturgical schedule at the Seminary “Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord”
around the archeparchy ICONOGRAPHY WORKSHOP — Oct. 4 to 7, Church of the Resurrection, 455 Center Road, Monroeville, Pa. Write an icon of Our Lady of Kykkov or Our Lady of Protection. Must attend all days. Cost of $120 covers supplies. For information, contact Marylyn Barone at 412-678-9453 or mwbarone@comcast.net. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET — 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 14, St. Mary’s Center, Route 981, Trauger. Cost is $6 for adults and $3 for ages 5 to 10. No charge for ages 4 and under. Sponsored by St. Mary’s Youth Group.
Join the Byzantine Catholic Seminary community for liturgical services at 3605 Perrysville Ave, Pittsburgh, Pa. Enter through the chapel door that faces Perrysville Avenue. It’s recommended visitors call 412-3218383 in advance so that we may be awaiting your arrival. For more information about the Seminary: go to www.bcs.edu. Schedule of Services for October: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
8 a.m. Festal Matins & Divine Liturgy (R) Protection of the Theotokos 7 a.m. Akathist to the Theotokos (R) 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 9 p.m. Compline (R) 7 a.m. Sixth Hour (R), 4 p.m. Vespers (R), 9 p.m. Compline (R) 8 a.m. First Hour & Divine Liturgy (M), 5 p.m. Great Vespers (R) 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 5 p.m. Great Vespers (M) 7 a.m. Festal Matins & Divine Liturgy (R) 8 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 7 a.m. Paraklesis (R) 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 7 a.m. Orthros (M), 4 p.m. Vespers (R) 8 a.m. Third Hour & Divine Liturgy (M) 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 5 p.m. Great Vespers (R) 9 p.m. Compline 8 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 7 a.m. First Hour (R) 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 9 p.m. Compline (R) 7 a.m. Festal Matins (R), 4 p.m. Vespers (R), 9 p.m. Compline (R) 8 a.m. Sixth Hour & Divine Liturgy (M), 5 p.m. Vespers with 5th Kathisma (R) 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 5 p.m. Great Vespers (M) 7 a.m. Festal Orthros & Divine Liturgy (M), 9 p.m. Compline (R) 8 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 7 a.m. Third Hour (R) 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 9 p.m. Compline (R) 7 a.m. Sixth Hour (R), 4 p.m. Great Vespers (R) 8 a.m. Divine Liturgy (M), 5 p.m. Vespers with 6th Kathisma (M) 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 5 p.m. All-Night Vigil (R) 9 p.m. Compline 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 7 a.m. Moleben in Honor of Theodore Romzha (R) 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R)
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10th ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW & ETHNIC FOOD FAIR — 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 20, St. John the Baptist Cathedral, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall, Pa. Sponsored by St. John’s CAMEO CLub. SPAGHETI DINNER AND BASKET RAFFLE — Noon3 p.m. Oct. 21, St. John the Baptist, 525 Porter Ave., Scottdale, Pa. Dinner includes spaghetti, meatballs, salad, roll, dessert and beverage. Requested donation: $8, adults; $5, under 12 years old, Take-out available. For inofrmation, call 724-220-5062. Sponsored by the St. John the Baptist Altar Society. 37th ANNUAL CARPATHO-RUSYN CELEBRATION — Noon-6 p.m. Oct. 28, St. John the Baptist, 201 E. Main St., Uniontown, Pa. Divine Liturgy at 9 a.m. Ethnic foods, including holubki, pirohi, halushki, kolbasi and sauerkraut, soup, potato pancakes, pagach and baked goods, will be served. Folk-dancing by Slavjane Folk Ensemble at 2 p.m., Rusyn folk music group at 12:30 and 4 p.m. Speaker and/ or video on Rusyn culture and customs at 1 and 4 p.m. (Program subject to change). Carpatho-Rusyn Society will display artifacts, authentic costumes, photographs, and documents, and will assist in genealogical questions. There will be pysanky, iconography, wood burning, bobbin lace making, and folk art demonstrations, music, church tours, children’s activities (including egg art, cookie decorating, coloring/craft projects, and storytelling), crafts, parish cookbooks, raffles, videos, and much more. Handicapped accessible. Admission is free. For information, call 724438-6027 from 9 a.m. -3 p.m. (leave message). PIROHI SALE — Holy Ghost, 225 Olivia St., McKees Rocks, Pa. To order, call 412-331-5155 ahead 9 a.m.-noon Wednesday prior to sale. Pick-up 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fridays Nov. 2 to Dec. 14. Handmade, fully cooked, made fresh and ready to eat. Potato, sauerkraut and cheese.
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dates to remember OCT. 1 Feast of the Protection of the Theotokos OCT. 1 to 26 Archbishop William participates in the 2018 Synod of Bishops: “Young People, Faith and Vocational Discernment” OCT. 21 Deanery Pasta Dinner 2-5 p.m. St. Elias, Munhall, Pa. Deanery priests and deacons serve complimentary pasta dinner. Free-will offering. Any profit goes to Archeparchy Priests Pension Plan. Register with your pastor. For information, call Father Frank Firko at 412-7713324 or Father Vitalii Stashkevych at 412-461-1712. (Pittsburgh Steelers bye week.) NOV. 4 Standard Time (“fall back”) resumes at 2 a.m. NOV. 11 Veterans Day National Observance See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org
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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: NOVEMBER 2018
submissions DEADLINE: OCTOBER 23