THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHEPARCHY OF PITTSBURGH
pilgrims’ pride
Inside
Archbishop William Skurla leads a September pilgrimage to the Holy Land Pages 8 to 9
VOL. 64 NO. 12
a celebration of marriage
More than 50 couples honored at St. Elias in Munhall, Pa. Pages 10 to 11
A sweet anniversary church of the resurrection in monroeville, pa. celebrates 50 years
Sept. 29 saw the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Church of the Resurrection in Monroeville, Pa. The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Metropolitan William Skurla, Very Rev. Robert Pipta served as Master of Ceremonies and seminarians assisted. Clergy guests included Fathers Bob Karl and Joel Barstad, as well as Fathers Ron Larkin and Joseph Raptosh, who spoke at the luncheon about the church's past. The luncheon itself was held in the church social hall and included picture displays and items of historical interest, a buffet dinner including the ladies' delicious homemade
cookies, a slide carousel of photos old and new, and ethnic music by the band Zajedno. The approximately 150 people in attendance seemed to thoroughly enjoy everything and appreciative comments were the order of the day. Lastly, Father Dennis Bogda, beloved founding pastor of the church, who went to rest in the Lord only a few days before the event, was lifted up and remembered for his energy, imagination, and love for this and all the churches he served. Many thanks to all who made this celebration possible. Church of the Resurrection’s first Divine Liturgy was Sept. 7, 1969, as 120 people attended inside the Number 4 Fire Hall in Monroeville. It would become the parish’s home for the next two-and-a-half years.
70 years strong
The Ladies Guild at St. Mary in Monessen, Pa. celebrates anniversary Page 13
eternal memory
very rev. archpriest dennis m. bogda
The parish was named for the central mystery of Eastern theology. In Feb. 1970, 4.66 acres of land were purchased on Center Road to build a permanent structure to house the growing congregation. Groundbreaking was March 7, and construction began shortly thereafter. The complex — church, social hall, and apartment for the pastor — was completed in Dec. 1971. The first Divine Liturgy was celebrated on Christmas Eve. On Sept. 9, 1979 the parish observed its 10th anniversary. The celebration included a dedication of the church and the laying of the cornerstone. The 1980s brought a more intensified debt reduction plan
Very Rev. Archpriest Dennis Michael Bogda, a retired priest of the Archeparchy of Pittsburgh, fell asleep in the Lord on Sunday, Sept. 21 at St. Barnabas Nursing Home, Gibsonia, Pa. where he had been a resident. Archpriest Dennis was born the only son to Michael and Mary Kushner Bogda in Homestead, Pa. on June 7, 1941. For his early education he was taught by the Sisters of Saint Basil at St. John Cathedral School in Munhall, Pa. A graduate of St. Michael High School on the South Side of Pittsburgh, he went on to earn the Master of Arts degree in Theology from Duquesne University during his Seminary years at SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Pittsburgh. Later, as a pastor, he attained the Master of Arts degree in Community Counseling from Youngstown, Ohio State University. He was ordained to the Diaconate by Archbishop Nicholas T. Elko on December 4, 1966, and to the priesthood by Archbishop Stephen J. Kocisko on April 3, 1967. Archbishop Basil M. Schott elevated him as Archpriest on Sept. 9, 2007. In Ohio, Archpriest Dennis served the following parishes: St. Stephen, Euclid; and St. Nicholas, St. George and St. John, Youngstown. In Pennsylvania his assignments included: St. Nicholas, Brownsville; SS. Peter and Paul, Duquesne; as the first pastor of the Church of the Resurrection, Monroeville; St. John, Lyndora; Nativity, Pittsburgh; and finally as rector of his home parish, St. John Cathedral, Munhall from where he retired on April 8, 2018.
Story continued on page 6
Story continued on page 2
Father Don Bolls and his parishioners celebrated the 50th anniversary of Church of the Resurrection in Monroeville, Pa. Sept. 29 with a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy celebrated by Archbishop William Skurla. Its first Divine Liturgy was celebrated Sept. 7, 1969 at the Number 4 Fire Hall in Monroeville. For more photos, see page 6. by Father Don Bolls Church of the Resurrection, Monroeville, Pa.
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NOVEMBER 2019
Very Rev. Archpriest Dennis M. Bogda continued from page 1 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 monthly (12 issues) plus two seasonal special issues 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 David Mayernik Jr. Editor Sister Elaine Kisinko, OSBM Copy Editor Donna Obsincs Subscription/Circulation Manager Deacon Robert J. Shalhoub Business Manager Annual Subscription Rates US $14 Canadian $17 International $20 Periodicals Postage PAID at Pittsburgh, PA
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Archpriest Dennis taught at Byzantine Catholic Central School in Parma and his ministries also included administrator and teacher at the Byzantine Catholic Central School in Youngstown, both in Ohio. An active member of both the fraternal organizations United Societies and Greek Catholic Union, he worked for a time as the editor of Prosvita, the newspaper of United Societies. Through the years, his Archeparchial responsibilities included Consultor, Vocation Director, Syncellus for Priests, Syncellus for Deacons, and member of the following: Presbyteral Council, Commission for Revitalization, Intereparchial Commission for Vocations, Vocation Committee, Interview Board for Vocations, Youth Commission and Director of Youth Ministry, Seminary Advisory Board, Seminary Board of Directors, Uniontown Pilgrimage Committee, and St. Nicholas Celebration Committee. Archpriest Dennis is survived by his sister Elaine and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary Ann, grandparents Andrew and Anna Kushner and John and Ann Bogda, and uncles Reverend Father Michael Kushner and John Bogda. His grandfather Andrew Kushner was the cantor at St. John Cathedral in Munhall for many years. He lay in state at the cathedral on Greentree Road in Munhall beginning in the afternoon of Sunday, Sept.
29. The funeral service for a priest was celebrated that evening by Most Reverend Kurt Burnette, Bishop of the Eparchy of Passaic, N.J. Most Rev. John M. Kudrick, Bishop Emeritus of Parma, Ohio, was in attendance. Concelebrants were: Very Rev. Andrew J. Deskevich, rector of the Cathedral, Very Rev. Frank A. Firko, and Rev. Fathers Robert J. Karl, Kevin E. Marks, Vitalii Stashkevych, and Stephen J. Wahal. Most Rev. William C. Skurla celebrated the funeral Divine Liturgy on Monday, Sept. 30. Concelebrating with him were: Most Rev. Kurt Burnette, Archpriest Eugene P. Yackanich, Archpriest John G. Petro, Very Revs. Frank A. Firko and Ronald P. Larko; and Rev. Fathers Robert J. Karl and Kevin E. Marks. Very Rev. Andrew J. Deskevich was the Master of Ceremonies. Deacon Paul M. Simko assisted as did Seminarians Luke Iyengar, Nathaniel Tapsak, John Welch, and Kyprian Wojciechowski. The altar servers were Martin Bovee Sr. and Riley, Ian and Aiden Muncie. The Archeparchial Choir under the direction of Darlene Fejka led the responses of the congregation, and George Janocsko, cathedral cantor, chanted the epistle. A large number of priests and deacons were in attendance at both services. In his homily, Archbishop William thanked Bishop Kurt and all who attended. He noted that in his illness, Father Dennis was a wonderful
Very Rev. Archpriest Dennis M. Bogda
witness to the suffering of Christ. He mentioned his hard work and great participation in his ministry and in the many Archeparchial offices which he fulfilled. He added that, “Whatever I or the Archbishops who preceded me requested of him, he always responded. Whenever he had a plan in his head, he always diligently looked to have it work and to make it happen.” Archbishop William extended special gratitude to Father Dennis’ sister Elaine, Father Robert Karl and to Karen Trapp for their help and care of him. He closed with the thought that Father Dennis had come full circle, with his life beginning and ending at St. John the Baptist Cathedral. Interment followed in the priests’ section of the Cathedral Cemetery. In blessed repose grant O Lord eternal rest to the soul of your servant Archpriest Dennis and render eternal his memory! n
Clergy retreat Amid the pastoral splendor of the grounds at Antiochian Village near Latrobe, Pa., clergy of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh gathered for a commemorative photo during their 2019 retreat the week of Oct. 6. Photo by Nick Havrilla Sr. n
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. the byzantine catholic world
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“I just feel so privileged” archbishop william skurla presents st. george emblem to marylyn barone for dedication to scouting by Kathe Kress Byzantine Catholic Serra Club communications liaison
Archbishop William Skurla came to Holy Trinity in Wall, Pa. on Oct. 12 and concelebrated the 4 p.m. Divine Liturgy with Father Don Bolls. The reason for the shepherd’s visit was to award Marylyn Barone the St. George Emblem, recognizing all of her dedicated service to Scouting. St. George is the patron saint of Scouting. Scout leaders are asked, like St. George, to publicly commit to their ideals. The National Catholic Committee on Scouting, acting through the local diocese, awards the St. George Emblem to individuals who have made significant and outstanding contributions through Scouting to the spiritual development of Catholic youth. It is the highest honor that a diocese may bestow upon a Scout Leader. Marylyn will wear the St. George emblem around her neck, along with the Bronze Pelican, an award presented by the Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting to registered Scouters who have given unselfish service to Catholic Scouting as one of the Church's ministries to youth for a period of three or more years, and the Saint Joan of Arc Award. This award is meant to recognize scouters/leaders who significantly assist in the promotion of the spiritual aspects of the scouting program in the Pittsburgh district in
Press release
Archbishop William Skurla recognizes Marylyn Barone for her outstanding work in Scouting with the Saint George Emblem.
honor of John Cardinal Wright, recognizing his efforts and accomplishments in enhancing the scouting program while Bishop of Pittsburgh. Marylyn expressed her gratitude. “I want to thank everyone who congratulated me. Working with boys and girls to
earn their awards makes it easy for me to be recognized. I just feel so privileged to be able to do this.” Marylyn, the wife of Sam Barone Jr., is a reader at Holy Trinity, and a member of the Byzantine Catholic Serra Club, in addition to her Scouting activities. n
Byzantine Catholic Serra Club welcomes Seminarians by Kathe Kress Byzantine Catholic Serra Club communications liaison
Members of the Byzantine Catholic Serra Club gathered in the Seminary Chapel for the 9 a.m. Oct. 5 Divine Liturgy followed by a Panachida for
Bulletin Board Law Alumni honored at Duquesne University
the deceased clergy, religious, and Serrans. In the chapel, Nick Havrilla Sr. took a group photo of the Seminarians that the Serra Club will use on the prayer card to distribute to the parishes. It is our first project of the year to
support our Seminarians and promote vocations. The "Welcome Brunch” following the chapel services would not be complete without our famous and fun "Brown Bag Auction.” President Diane Pochron served as auctioneer. n
Firont row: John Welch, Tim Fariss, Luke Iyengar, Michael Kunitz, LEFT: Tim Fariss outbid everyone for this colorful tote. Christopher Davel and Rob Jones. Back row: Kyprian Wojciechowski, RIGHT: Mikhael Naddaf dons his new apron: "I Cook, Mikhael Naddaf, David Vonderohe, Paul West, Riley Winstead and Therefore I Am." Nathaniel Tapsak.
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Two Byzantine Catholics were honored Oct. 4 at the 67th annual Law Almuni Reunion Dinner at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pa. Peter D. Giglione (Law ‘02) received the Outstanding Achievement Award and Theodore M. Trbovich (Law ‘72) received the Meritorious Service Award. n Peter Giglione, a member of St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa., opened the Pittsburgh office of Wilkes & McHugh, and in 2014 joined what is now known as the law firm of Massa Butler Giglione, where he handles primarily nursing home neglect and medical malpractice cases. He was inducted into the prestigious Academy of Trial Lawyers of Allegheny County in 2013, then one of its youngest inductees, and now serves on its Board of Governors. In 2018, Giglione was recognized as one of the Top 100 trial attorneys by that same national organization. He also serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Duquesne University Rangos School of Health Sciences and serves as a School Director on the Baldwin Whitehall School District Board. n Theodore M. Trbovich, a member of St. John Chrysostom in Greenfield, Pa., received his Bachelor’s degree in 1969 from Duquesne University. After graduating from Law School, he clerked for the Honorable James F. Clarke, Criminal Division, Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas and in 1981, he joined the Allegheny County Law Department as an Assistant County Solicitor, and served there until 2013. He served as the attorney for Pittsburgh International Airport during its construction and provided legal assistance related to the construction of the new Allegheny County Jail. Since 1984, Trbovich has served as General Counsel and Director of the GCU and he currently serves as Solicitor to the Allegheny County Accountability Conduct and Ethics Commission and is a Director of the Kane Foundation. n
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NOVEMBER 2019
Annual ECED meeting Press release
The annual meeting of the Eastern Catholic Eparchial Directors of Religious Education (ECED) was held Oct. 2 to 4 in Boston, Mass. The date and location was selected to join in the celebration honoring the Bishop liaison for the organization, the Most Reverend Nicholas J. Samra.
Bishop Nicholas celebrated his 75th birthday, 50 years in the service of our Lord, and 30th Anniversary as a bishop for the Melkite Eparchy of Newton. Two bishops attending the celebration honored the ECED members by participating in their meeting and the photo (below). n
63rd Annual St. Nicholas Charity Dinner Sunday, December 8 Moleben—3 pm Social Hour—4 pm Dinner—5 pm Menu includes: Wedding Soup, Tossed Salad, Chicken Romano, Saffron Risotto and Green Beans Almondine Music: Candlelight Duo
St. John the Baptist Cathedral Center Munhall, PA Benefits the Byzantine Catholic Seminary
Front row: Most Rev. George D. Gallaro, Bishop of the Eparchy of Piana, a Diocese of the Italo-Albanian Catholic Church; Sister Ann Laszok, OSBM; Most Rev. Nicholas J. Samra, Bishop of the Melkite Eparchy of Newton; Father Vasyl Chepelsky; Amanda Singel; and Sister Marion Dobos, OSB. Back row: Father Vasile Colopelnic; Father Nathan Symeon Adams; Most Rev. Milan Lach, Bishop of the Eparchy of Parma; Father Hezekias Carnazzo; Father John Kachuba; Father Alex Wroblicky; and Deacon Daniel Dozier.
Events at the House of Prayer
Tuesday Reading Series Nov. 5, 12, 19 and 26 1011:30 a.m. This month’s book is “In His Image: Ten Ways God Calls Us to Reflect His Character” by Jen Wilkin. Free-will offering.
n
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 or email hpmsm@verizon.net.
Information available on the Events page of the GCU website-www.GCUusa.com or call 1-800-722-4428 ext. 3810.
Spiritual Reflection n 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 23. "Women Who Spoke the Word of God” with Helenanne Hochendoner. Includes lunch. Offering of $35. Registration due Nov. 19.
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Christmas Preparation Retreat n 9:15 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 14. "Light Conquering Darkness" presented by Sister Carol Petrasovich, OSBM. Offering of $35 includes lunch. Registration due Dec. 10.
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reflection from mount st. macrina
Symptoms of inner peace by Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick, OSBM Sisters of St. Basil the Great Mount St. Macrina, Uniontown, Pa.
Sister Barbara Jean Mihalchick posts videos of her reflections each week at the Facebook of the Sisters of St. Basil the Great. View them at: https://www. facebook.com/sistersofstbasil. uniontown/. This is a transcript of her June 28 reflection and is Part 2 of her “Fruits of the Holy Spirit” series. Glory to Jesus Christ!
Today, I’ll continue our series on the “Fruits of the Holy Spirit” and talk about joy and peace. Are they possible? Oh, yes. It does require something, though: placing God at the very center of our lives; central to all and everything. We do that and there is a joy that comes, because we are accompanied by the Loving One. It doesn’t always mean that in a flash we receive everything that we want. But it certainly gives us the perspective that can keep us in joy. And, particularly if we remember as well, that our life with God is meant to be
our eternity as well, in all its fullness. When we talk about peace, some would say that’s when you talk to God for everything. However, we know that every prayer isn’t answered right away or the way that we would like. Nonetheless, if we dare to keep God central and to trust, there is a peace that develops. What does it look like? I found this wonderful list of the “symptoms of inner peace.” Things like an unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment, a loss of interest in judging self all the time, a loss of interest in judging others, a loss of interest in seeking conflict, a loss of the
ability to worry, worry, worry. These are symptoms of inner peace, which we can ask the Holy Spirit to help us to attain. In fact, real peace often gets expressed in moments of gratitude and appreciation. We’re able to express that thankfulness. It could be the times when we spontaneously smile with a brightness because there is an inner peace. Ask for it, seek it. The great gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit are blessings we need to be praying for and growing in day by day. God bless you. n
text messages
Thankful notes In past columns, I’ve mentioned Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I begin to feel a sense of contentment on Wednesday evening after work, partly because I have a long weekend in front of me and I know I don’t have to brave driving through concrete barriers on the perpetuallyunder-construction Saw Mill Run Boulevard. On Thanksgiving morning, I wake up to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade and after a shower, it’s off to the family gathering. This year, I thought I would list what I’m thankful for; in no particular order. It’s a good exercise to realize one’s blessings. n My parents, brother, sister, brother-in-law, nieces and nephew. n My grandparents and great-aunt. n My aunts, uncles and cousins. n A great job working at the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Archeparchy of Pittsburgh Chancey in Pittsburgh, Pa. for the past three years. Especially after being laid off from my previous job and facing an uncertain future. n It strikes me as really weird to type this now, but I’m thankful for all those evening township commissioners, borough council and school
board meetings I covered in my 15 years working for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. There were a lot of long nights and tense situations. Somehow I lived to tell the tale. n That I’ll be able to see the final “Star Wars” movie in a theater next month. I was eight years old when I saw the original movie (now referred to as “Episode IV, A New Hope”) and I’ve spent a lifetime enjoying the Skywalker saga. I’m excited and nervous to see how it ends. n Cherry Coke Zero. n Air conditioning and central heating. n Comic strips, especially “Peanuts” by Charles Schulz. He brought humanity to the newspaper comics page and continues to inform my thought process when I write. n Mr. Rogers, the preeminent Pittsburgh legend. n My current parish, St. Gregory in Upper St. Clair, Pa. And the parishes of my youth: St. Mary in Monessen, Pa. and Holy Ghost in Charleroi, Pa. n Five Stanley Cups. (And counting…) n Chocolate milk. n People who make me laugh, especially Bob Newhart. Watching reruns of the 1970s “The Bob Newhart Show” with my dad greatly informed my sense of humor like nothing else. I still hope to one day see Bob perform his stand-up routine. n Long Beach Island, N.J. n Ben & Jerry’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream.
“A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”
My brother first discovered it at an ice cream shop on the aforementioned island in the early 1980s and I am not overstating it was a seminal moment in our lives. We couldn’t believe something like this actually existed. n “The Brady Bunch.” I was lucky enough to meet Barry Williams (Greg) and Ann B. Davis (Alice) and they both signed his newly released autobiography, “Growing Up Brady.” Ann lived for a time at an Episcopal community in Ambridge, Pa. n My 18 years working at the now-defunct Papermart store in Green Tree, Pa. I loved everyone I worked with throughout the years and miss the camaraderie of my co-workers. We had a blast. (Customer service is not an easy job, so please be kind to those who serve.) n A new pair of blue jeans. n The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
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Thanksgiving dinner on Nov. 28 with my family. The day ends with my annual VHS viewing of “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.” And I will end this column by offering Linus’ backyard Thanksgiving Day prayer: “In the year 1621, the Pilgrims held their first Thanksgiving feast. They invited the great Indian chief Massasoit, who brought 90 of his brave Indians and a great abundance of food. Gov. William Bradford and Captain Miles Standish were honored guests. Elder William Brewster, who was a minister, said a prayer that went something like this: ‘We thank God for our homes and our food and our safety in a new land. We thank God for the opportunity to create a new world for freedom and justice’.” Happy Thanksgiving! And don’t forget the rules of the “Wishbone Pull”: Make a wish that benefits everyone. n n
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church of the resurrection in monroeville, pa.
Celebrating 50 years continued from page 1 and purchase of adjacent land, which included a house to be used as a rectory. This purchase brought the total property to about seven acres. Interior painting and additional icons on the walls beautified the nave of the church before the congregation celebrated its 25th anniversary on Sept. 13, 1994. By the summer of 1997, a permanent icon screen was completed, and an icon of the Christ Pantocrator recessed into the center of the nave ceiling. Two large chandeliers were hung in the nave in the fashion of Byzantine tradition, and a set of six cast iron bells imported from Russia were purchased. n
Photos by Margaret Hallam
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parish news
st. john the baptist in scottdale, pa.
Happy anniversary A social gathering was held Sept. 28 and 29 at St. John the Baptist in Scottdale, Pa. to honor Father Oleh Seremchuk’s
ninth anniversary of being ordained to the priesthood. He is pictured below, holding his son, Mark. n
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Feast of St. Francis st. michael in campbell, ohio The Blessing of Animals took place Oct. 4 at St. Michael in Campbell, Ohio in celebration of the Feast of St. Francis. Father Kevin Marks is pastor. n
st. john the baptist cathedral in munhall, pa. Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich blessed animals Oct. 4 at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Munhall, Pa. n
st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa. by Father Valerian Michlik St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa. St. John the Baptist’s “pierogi crew”: Terry Frederick, Anita Wisniewski, Janet Whittaker, Dolly Litman and Mary Beth Weaver (standing); Kathy Onusko (seated); and Catherine Catalina and Betty Sapola (right).
st. michael in campell, ohio
Rosary March
On a warm Thursday evening, Oct. 3, faithful gathered at St. Gregory for the annual blessing of animals. This blessing takes place
Parishioners at St. Michael in Campbell, Ohio participated in the Rosary March Oct. 12 in downtown Youngstown, Ohio. n
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every year in our parish family in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, known as the patron saint of animals. This year we had all dogs who were very well behaved during this prayerful event. n
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the holy land at a prayerful pace
Pilgrims’ pride Thirty-four pilgrims led by Archbishop William Skurla and Very Rev. Andrew Deskevich, Protosyncellus, traveled to the Holy Land Sept. 15 to 24 as part of celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Church of Pittsburgh. The professional guide was Father John D’Orazio and the pastoral assistant was Patrizia De Libero. They arrived in Tel Aviv, Israel Sept. 16, where they traveled north to the Galilee area and arrived in Nazareth for an evening dinner. Pilgrims departed for Mount Tabor on the second day, where they visited the Church of the Transfiguration and stopped at Cana, where a blessing of married couples took place. They also visited the region of Lake Tiberias and the Mount of Beatitudes and two sites at Tabgha: the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish and Church of the Primacy of Peter. The fifth day included a twohour bus ride trek through the Jordan River Valley towards the Dead Sea and a renewal of Baptismal Promises at Qasr El Yahud along the Jordan River, where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. Day Six was a full day in Jerusalem, where pilgrims visited the Mount of Olives: Tehj Ascension Chapel and the Church of Pater Noster, the church where Jesus wept; and garden of Gethsemane with the basilica of the Agony, the Tomb of Mary. The start of the second week was spent in Bethlehem: Basilica of the Nativity, where Jesus was born; and Mount Zion, the room of the Last Supper and the Cenotaph of King David, the Church of the Dormition, and the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu, where St. Peter denied Jesus. On the final day, pilgrims visited the village of Ein Kerem, place of the visit of Mary to St. Elizabeth and birthplace of St. John the Baptist, and the Garden of the Righteous at Yad Vashem, the Memorial of the Holocaust. Following dinner at a restaurant in Jaffa, they boarded a 1 a.m. flight for a trip back to the United States. n
Pilgrims on the bank of the River Jordan.
Synagogue at Capernaum
Church at the Place of the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor
Deacon Steve White on Mount of Precipice in Nazareth
City of Nazareth
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St. George Monastery in the Judean Desert on the road from Jericho to Jerusalem was built in the 4th century
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Father Andrew blessed with the water of the Jordan River
Church on the site of the Upper Room, where the Last Supper took Lunch following a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee place, on Mount Zion in Jerusalem
The Sea of Galilee
Bob Shrum rides a camel near the Dead Sea
Married couples blessed at the church of the Wedding of Cana
Patty Bovee Sepulchre
entering
Basilica of the Anunciation in Nazareth
Michael Dautlick venerates the birthplace of Christ
Pilgrims venerate the place of the Crucifixion
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the
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st. elias in munhall, pa.
A Celebration of Marriage Fifty-four couples were recognized for many years of faithfulness to their marriage vows Sept. 8 during “A Celebration of Marriage� at St. Elias in Munhall, Pa. The occasion honored couples from parishes in the Archeparchy with milestone anniversaries from 10 to 65 years in 2019. The afternoon Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Archbishop William Skurla. n
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Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.
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st. mary in monessen, pa.
Ladies Guild celebrates 70 years Alvera Zolock and door prizes were won by Helen Panzo, Dolores Kernisky, Deacon John, Members of St. Mary’s Ladies Irene Resetar, Frances Feher, Guild celebrated their 70th Rose Marie Lesovic, Mary anniversary Oct. 1, whch also Kay Kelly, Father Stephen, was a Holy Day in the Byzantine Dorothy Stefan, Catholic Church, Linda Kernisky, Protection of the Kay Zebula, Mother of God. Margaret Father Stephen Krolik, Mary Wahal, spiritual Ann Wentz, director, offered Ruth Hanchin the Divine Liturgy and Mary Beth at noon, a group Kissler. photo was taken Icon prayer in the church and cards were a dinner was held given as favors a the Carriage Inn as well as in Elizabeth, Pa. petite boxes of President Margaret chocolate mints Krolik welcomed and lottery members and tickets. Father Stephen Deacon John gave the gave everyone Invocation. A in attendance delicious dinner an Angel Sun was served by Catcher and a the staff at the Guardian Angel Carriage Inn. For Front row: Helen Panzo, Frances Fehr, Rose Marie Lesovic, Agnes Mahalko, Dolores Kernisky and Irene Resetar. Middle row: Holy Card. dessert, Margaret Secretay Ruth Hanchin, Culinary Kay Zebula, President Margaret Krolik, Treasurer Alvera Zolock and Vice President Dorothy Father Stephen served cupcakes Stefan. Back row: Father Stephen Wahal, Mary Ann Wentz, Brenda Rusnak, Linda Kernisky, Joyce Seman, Deacon John Hanchin congratulated and Mary Kay Kelly. from Bethel Bakery. all members Following dinner, and before the afternoon came Deacon John Hanchin asked Guild members. Agnes served Michael Turzai, Speaker of to a close, everyone sang “God members to recite a prayer as president of the Guild for 14 the Pennsylvania House of Grant Them Many Years.” with him written by Father years. Representatives, and Monessen The next meeting will be held Henri Nouwen entitled “Let The officers were on the Mayor Matthew Shorraw. 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4 in the God Love You the Way God committee and chose an October birthdays were Church hall. New members are Wants.” assortment of mums as recognized for the following always welcome. n One of the members, Helen centerpieces on the tables, members: Mary Kay Kelly and Panzo, who has been in the which were later given as Betty Suchko. Guild for a long time, came to door prizes. Collages showing One-half the take was won by by Ruth Hanchin St. Mary, Monessen, Pa.
the dinner with her daughter, Mary Beth Kissler. Helen is a young 97 years old. Former President Agnes Popovich, 99, was unable to come but sent her best wishes to all the
church of the resurrection in monroeville, pa.
st. nicholas in perryopolis, pa.
Annual Ethnic Dinner
Icon workshop by Marylyn Barone Holy Trinity, Wall, Pa.
Church of the Resurrection in Monroeville, Pa. hosted an icon workshop facilitated by Marylyn Barone of Holy Trinity in Wall, Pa. Father Don Bolls is pastor at both parishes. Fifteen people attended the workshop with eleven having a choice between the Nativity of Jesus or Christ the Teacher.
different events the Guild celebrated through the years were made by Rose Marie Lesovic and Ruth Hanchin. President Margaret read Proclamations received from
by Frances Kranik St. Nicholas, Perryopolis, Pa.
Four of those returning did icons of their choice. The participants wrote the icon on a gesso-covered board. Using a pre-prepared prototype, they learned techniques for faces, garments, gilding and tooling. The theology of iconography and specifically, the Theotokos and Christ was also presented.
St. Nicholas in Perryopolis, Pa. held their annual Ethnic dinner Oct. 13. Parishoners prepared and with the help of the local Knights of Columbus council
n
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served dinners consisting of homemade halupki, halushki, homemade potato pierogies, kielbasa and sauerkraut, green beans and cake. There were many happy satisfied customers. n
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Anxiety vs. stress dr. holly lassila asks, “do you know the difference?” at st. gregory in upper st. clair, pa. by David Mayernik Jr. Editor
You have an important meeting with your boss 9 a.m. Monday. As you fall asleep Sunday night, your heart begins beating a bit faster and and you feel light-headed. A stomach ache and breathing become more intense. Don’t fret. It's just your sympathetic nervous system — responsible for your stress response — activating, says Dr. Holly Lassila. Dr. Lassila, doctorate of Pharmacy, a Licensed Professional Counselor, Associate Professor at Duquesne University's School of Pharmacy and an Adjunct Professor at the Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, helped demystify the reasons for stress Oct. 13 at St. Gregory in Upper St. Clair, Pa. Following the 9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy, she discussed "Anxiety vs. Stress: Do you know the difference?" with parishioners in the Church hall. The presentation was sponsored by St. Gregory’s Bethany Ministry. Dr. Lassila said her objectives were to discover what we do when we're stressed and explore ways for self-regulation to control it. Of course, stress can be caused by any number of different factors. "Stress is how the brain and body respond to any demands...Generally, stress is a response to an external cause: weddings, kids, homework, jobs. External causes such as a deadline or having an argument with a friend," she said. "Stress subsides once the situation has been resolved." Dr. Lassila said chronic stress because of neurological changes in the body can cause headaches, high blood pressure, chest pains and skin rash. In these cases, help should be sought out. "Go to your family, go to your priest, your spiritual leader, whoever that may be. Go to a health professional. The one thing I find in our culture is that people feel they're weak when they acknowledge they're stressed," she said. "It's not a sign of weakness. We all have it. Across the continuum of all different ages." Another factor involved in
Dr. Holly Lassila
Dorothy Mayernik, representing St. Gregory’s Bethany Ministry; Dr. Holly Lassila; and Father Valerian Michlik
Photos by David Mayernik Jr.
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stress is resilience, or how we handle stress or burdens. "Prayer, gratitude, coming from the heart, builds resilience." Stress can lead to anxiety, Dr. Lassila said, or fear of the unknown. "Anxiety is a person's specific reaction to stress...Anxiety is typically characterized by a persistent feeling of apprehension or dread." If anxiety persists, it can escalate to an anxiety disorder. "People with anxiety may not be able to stay in the present... Anxiety is tied to depression." The partner of the sympathetic nervous system is the parasympathetic, or the relaxation side often referred to as "rest and digest." "We're supposed to toggle between the two. We don't do that. We stay typically in the sympathetic nervous system side." But there are many ways to practice self-regulation and find balance by understanding what's going on inside our bodies. Dr. Lassila taught parishioners ways for self-regulation, including "relaxing your body" a few times a day, whether it be standing in line at a grocery store or waiting at a school bus stop. Inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly through the nose is another option. "This alone allows our sympathetic nervous system to switch right over to the parasympathetic nervous system.“ Another way is placing your hands on your belly and dropping your inhaling breaths down to the belly. "What belly breathing does, is it engages the diaphragm, the muscle between our lungs and our belly. The lungs are tissue, so they can't expand without the diaphragm." Dr. Lassila said, at age two or three, people switch to lung breathing only, so we have to retrain our bodies to do this type of breathing. "These all can be done when we're sitting in a classroom or... in a car driving. These are very internal and very quiet. "We're not going to get rid of any stress in our lives. Some of us are going to have some anxiety; most of us will. But what we need to do is learn how to work with it, manage it, talk about it." n
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NOVEMBER 2019
thoughts for our day by Archpriest David M. Petras
the anaphora: the mystery of god’s presence God. This is why all sacramental formulas are passive (e.g., "The servant of God is baptized...."). In Chrysostom's time, the question of the exact moment when the gifts changed had not been asked. What was imporant
The most s o l e m n moment of the Anaphora is when the priest repeats the Lord’s words, “This is my body, “This is my blood.” St. John Chrysostom explained the meaning of this mystery. He preached, “"It is not man that converts the holy gifts into the Body and Blood of Christ, but Christ himself, who gave himself to be crucified. The priest, who utters these words, is only an image of Christ, but the power and grace are from God. He says: ‘This is my body.’ These words change the sacrificial elements. Just as the words: ‘Increase and multiply and fill the earth’ (Gen 1:28) although spoken once, give our nature the permanent power of procreation, so also these words once pronounced, are effective on all the altars from that time until now and will be to his second coming” (First Homily on the Betrayal of Judas, 6). Chrysostom is not talking about about the words that the priest repeats. He is speaking about the words that Christ said, and which echo or reverberate throughout time to effect the change in a manner similar to creation. According to Chrysostom, the priest "stands in the place of Christ," when he says these words, for the presbyter obviously does not mean that the bread is his body, but the body of Christ. Chrysostom, therefore, is not referring to the words of the priest actually pronounced in the Liturgy, but to the words said by Christ at the mystical supper. In Byzantine theology, the priest is a passive instrument of
The Divine Liturgy is the reality of the Gospel of St. John. Here Jesus teaches us, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven...” was the reality of the mystery of faith. For the fathers, therefore, when the eucharistic prayer had been said, the bread and wine had become the real body and blood of Christ. The Divine Liturgy is the reality of the Gospel of St. John. Here Jesus teaches us, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”.... Jesus said to them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink” (John 6:51-55). We pray before Holy Communion, “I also believe and profess that this, which I am about to receive, is truly your most precious body and
your life-giving blood, which, I pray, make me worthy to receive for the remission of all my sins and for life everlasting.” The eucharist, therefore, is not only real food for our bodies but also for our souls, which is why frequent reception of this holy mystery is so important. The priest, therefore, stands before the Holy Table to lead the community in the prayer of the anaphora. The anaphora is the central prayer of the Divine Liturgy, called “divine” because the words spoken in it come from the presence of God with us, praying together with us. This can only be done in the Holy Spirit, who is given to the priest in his ordination so that he may lead us in prayer. This is especially true in the words of our Lord instituting the holy mystery of the eucharist, revealing that “this is my body,” and “this is my blood.” For the priest does not say that the bread and wine become his - the priest’s - body and blood but the body and blood of Christ, who acts eternally in the eucharistic prayer of our Divine Liturgy. To these words, we all say “Amen,” “would that this be so.” Sometimes the people who gather to pray may have a wrong idea, that the Liturgy is the sacrifice offered by the priest, in which they have only a passive role, or that it is is a mystery that the laity only watch, while the priest offers the sacrifice of praise, which by God’s grace is united as one with the true sacrifice of our Lord on the Cross and in the holy resurrection. However, the priest, by the grace of ordination, says the words which are offered by the whole assembly gathered for prayer. That is why the
priest does not say “I thank you for this liturgy,” but “we thank you for this liturgy.” St. John Chrysostom explains this with his usual eloquence: “One sees that the people contribute much to the prayer...during the fearful mysteries, the priest speaks for the people, and the people speak on behalf of the priest, as can be seen from these words, 'And with your spirit.' The prayer of thanksgiving is again a common prayer offered by the priest and by all the people. The priest begins, and the people join him and respond that it is just and right to praise God: this is the beginning of the thanksgiving. Why are you surprised if the people mix their voice with that of the priest? Do you not know that these holy hymns rise to the heavens, where they mixed with those of the angels, the cherubim and the heavenly powers?” (Homily on 1 Corinthians 18). This is especially clear in the “Amen” that the people say to the solemn words of institution. The fathers called the “Amen” the seal of the prayer, and here it comes in the middle of the anaphora to affirm and seal the priest’s repetition of our Lord’s words. This makes the sacrifice the act of all of us. It is our profession of faith that the bread and wine of the liturgy are truly the body and blood of Christ, given to us as saving food for our bodies and souls. We affirm that Christ is truly present with us, just as he was for the apostles in that first and wondrous mystical supper, and that we, as Church, are becoming the Body of Christ “for the life of the world” (John 6:51). n
BYZANTINE DIVINE LITURGY View Liturgical Services (various times) streamed LIVE online at:
St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Munhall, Pa. www.stjohnsbyzantinecathedral.com
St. John Chrysostom, Pittsburgh, Pa. www.sjcbcc.com
Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa. www.youtube.com then type Holy Ghost Church Live Stream
St. Gregory, Upper St. Clair, Pa. www.facebook.com/stgregoryusc
SS. Peter and Paul, Braddock, Pa. https://www.facebook.com/SSPeterPaulBraddock/
St. Michael, Campbell, Ohio www.facebook.com/st.michaelsbyz.campbell
St. Elias, Munhall, Pa. www.facebook.com/St-Elias-Byzantine-Catholic-Church-157868411675213 the byzantine catholic world
NOVEMBER 2019
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Dinner is served priests, deacons serve at annual deanery pasta dinner Deanery priests and deacons
of the Greater Pittsburgh served Protopresbytery complimentary dinners during the annual Deanery Pasta Dinner Oct. 20 at St. Elias in Munhall, Pa. n
Photos by Nick Havrilla Sr.
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NOVEMBER 2019
liturgical schedule at the Seminary
around the archeparchy
“Come, let us sing joyfully to the Lord”
ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BREAKFAST BUFFET — 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 10, St. Mary’s Center, Route 981, Trauger, Pa. Cost: $6, adults; $3, 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 412-321-8383 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 November: 1 8 a.m. Great Doxology & Divine Liturgy (M) 8:30 p.m. Small Compline (R) 2 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 4 p.m. Great Vespers (M), 7:45 p.m. Small Compline (R) 3 21st Sunday after Pentecost 7 a.m. Festal Matins (R), 3:30 p.m. 9th Hour (R) 4 8 a.m. 6th Hour (R) 5 7 a.m. Akathist to the Theotokos (R) 6 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 7 7 a.m. Akathist to the Archangel Michael (R), 5 p.m. Great Vespers (R) 8 Archangel Michael & All Angels 8 a.m. Festal Orthros & Divine Liturgy (M) 9 No services 10 22nd Sunday after Pentecost 8:30 p.m. Small Compline (R) 11 8 a.m. 1st Hour (R) 12 7 a.m. 3rd Hour (R) 13 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy for the Faithful Departed (R) 14 Holy Apostle Philip 7 a.m. Festal Matins (R), 4:45 to 5:15 p.m. Communal Silence in Chapel, 8:30 p.m. Small Compline (M) 15 Beginning of Philip’s Fast 8 a.m. Orthros (M), 5 p.m. Daily Vespers (R) 7th Kathisma 16 No services 17 23rd Sunday after Pentecost 8:30 p.m. Small Compline (R) 18 8 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R) 19 7 a.m. Penitential Moleben for the Philip’s Fast (R) 20 7 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 4 p.m. Great Vespers (R) 21 Entrance of the Theotokos 8 a.m. Festal Matins with Divine Liturgy (R) 22 8 a.m. 1st Hour & Divine Liturgy (M), 5 p.m. Daily Vespers (M) 8th Kathisma 23 9 a.m. Divine Liturgy (R), 5 p.m. Great Vespers (R) 24 24th Sunday after Pentecost 7 a.m. Festal Orthros & Divine Liturgy (M) 25 8 a.m. Moleben of Thanksgiving (R) 26 to 30 No services (Thanksgiving vacation) (M) Melkite
(R) Ruthenian
CHRISTMAS MARKET — Noon-6 p.m. Nov. 10, St. Elias, 4200 Homestead-Duquesne Road, Munhall, Pa. Begin your Christmas shopping and enjoy a stuffed cabbage or chicken paprikas lunch/ dinner. St. Elias specialties will also be available, including nut, poppyseed, apricot, apricot/nut and lekvar rolls; and csoroge. For information call 412-461-1712 or email stelias@google. com. Anyone interested in participating in this year’s market as a crafter or a vendor, go to http://steliasmunhallpa.weebly.com and print out the letter and form. (PAPER) TURKEY BINGO — 1-4 p.m. Nov. 17, St. Mary’s Center, Route 981, Trauger, Pa. Frozen Turkeys given away (not grocery gift certificates). Doors open at noon. Admission: $5. Specials and extra sets will be sold. There will be a 50/50, door prizes and one Quickie. For information, call 724-787-5631. PIROHI SALE — Holy Ghost, 225 Olivia St., McKees Rocks, Pa. To order, call 412-331-5155 9 a.m.-noon Wednesday prior to sale. Pick-up 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fridays Nov. 1 to Dec. 13. Handmade, fully cooked, made fresh and ready to eat. Potato, sauerkraut and cheese. Voted no. 1 for second year in a row at Kennywood Pirohi Fest. LADIES NIGHT OUT — 6:30 p.m. Nov. 16, St. John the Baptist Cathedral, 210 Greentree Road, Munhall Pa. Doors open at 6 p.m. Get started shopping early for the holidays with a variety of vendors. 50/50 raffle, auction baskets and more. Tickets: $25 includes dinner, dessert and beverage. Benefits St. John Cathedral Roof Fund. For information, call 412-461-0944. DAY OF RECOLLECTION AND PRAYER — 2 p.m. Nov. 17, St. Mary Assumption , 31 Church St., New Salem, Pa. Moleben and Homily titled “Jewish Roots of Mary” followed by Confessions. Refreshments will be served in the church hall. All are invited. Father Christopher Burke is pastor. Reservations are requested by Nov. 10. Call 724-953-4266. TASTE OF HEAVEN COOKIE SALE — 9 a.m.-noon Dec. 7, St. Gregory, 2005 Mohawk Road, Upper St. Clair, Pa. Containers provided for you to select favorites from a large assortment of homemade cookies and holiday treats. Small container: $8; large container: $15. For directions, visit stgregoryusc.org. For information, call the Parish Office at 412-835-7800.
dates to remember NOV. 3 3 p.m. Moleben for martyred bishops Holy Ghost, McKees Rocks, Pa. Standard Time (“fall back”) resumes at 2 a.m. NOV. 11 Veterans Day National Observance NOV. 11 to 14 Archbishop William attends the annual Autumn meeting of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Baltimore, Md. NOV. 15 to DEC. 24 Philippian Fast NOV. 18 Clergy Formation Day Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Munall, Pa. NOV. 21 Feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos NOV. 28 Thanksgiving Day — Chancery closed Nov. 28 to 29 See more upcoming events at www.archpitt.org
the byzantine catholic world
Official publication of the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh
Byzantine Catholic Press Associates 66 Riverview Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Tel: 412-231-4000 Fax: 412-231-1697 E-mail: bcw@archpitt.org Website: www.archpitt.org
next issue: DECEMBER 2019
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