Voicefall2013

Spring 2012

Christ Is Risen!

Indeed He Is Risen!

THE SV OICE .G OF

T

EORGE

AUTUMN 2013

St. George Serbian Orthodox Church

Western American Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church in North & South America 3025 Denver Street • San Diego, CA 92117 telephone: (619)276-5827 web: http://saintgeorgeinsd.com

Heat and calls to war. San Diego has “suffered” a long hot spell as summer has ended, and it seems our US government is reflecting this hot spell by once again agitating for lethal bombing of another country. Almost all church leaders around the world are urging extreme caution and restraint. Bombs in the past have not equaled peace, and have usually punished the innocent rather than the ones the bombs were supposed to punish. In Syria, there are many Orthodox Christians. They and others are at great risk both for “collateral” bombing damages as well as for persecution by the so-called rebel factions that US policy favors. This issue of the Voice contains articles about the US and war and war and US betrayal, in addition to the usual abundance of spiritual articles and parish news. With that in mind, we urge you all to pray without ceasing in regard to your own spiritual wellness and the wellness of the world. We need to follow God’s will instead of our own ego-directed will, both personally and as a country—Marsha Jovanovic, editor

Church Officers & Staff PARISH PRIEST

V. Rev. Protopresbyter Bratislav Krsic email: frbratso@sbcglobal.net PARISH DEACON

Rev. Deacon Paul Germain CHURCH OFFICE VOLUNTEER

Dorothy Vukotich PRESIDENT

Vladan Trifunovic VICE PRESIDENT

Vojkan Popovic TREASURER

Linda Alemany SECRETARY

Milos Belcevic MEMBERS-AT-LARGE

Jack Milasinovic, Toma Jovanovic STEWARDSHIP MINISTRY

Toma Jovanovic AUDITING BOARD

Miro Copic, President; Sean Wright, Dusanka Urosevic TUTORS/VESTRYMEN

Mico Lukic, Jeffrey Wilgus, George Skaljac, Vojkan Popovich, Miro Copic, Milan Miljkovic S.S.S. ST. GEORGE CHOIR

Velimir Jovanovic, President CIRCLE OF SERBIAN SISTERS (KOLO)

Snezana Pantovich, President CHURCH SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT

Mira Jovanovic MORAVA FOLKLORE ENSEMBLE

Dobrila Undheim, Director ADULT ORTHODOX FELLOWSHIP

Nemanja Selezan VOICE OF ST. GEORGE

Marsha Jovanovic, Editor (619)988-0650 • FAX (619)588-5767 email: marsha@marshaj.com Srdjan Dragic, Cover On cover: Spiritual leaders of St George Church: Prota Bozidar & Protinica Bozana Draskovic, Prota Velimir & Protinica Ljubinka Petakovich, Prota Bratso & Protinica Lisa Krsic, Protinica Nadezda Radojevic, Kumovi Djordje, Julijana, & Petar Stojadinovic

St. Catherine’s Monastery in Egypt’s Sinai desert. See article on page 26.

In this issue...

Using the Jesus Prayer Attaining the Kingdom Of Heaven Thoughts from the Holy Fathers on education Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Non-Judgment and the Forgiveness of Offenses Saints and Feast Days From the President...

CHURCH CALENDAR 2013-14 Sunday Church School The Kolo Sisters’ Corner St George Choir With This Sign You Will Triumph MORAVA! Stewardship List—Adults, September 2013 Stewardship List—Children FOCUS Ministry On the Other Side General Draza’s role in WW II and how the Allies betrayed him Going to Serbia: the summer adventures of St George parishioners Nikola Tesla focus of Personal Campaign for Misha Jovanovic In the Green: St George Recycling Program

3 4 6 7 8 9 14 15 16 18 18 19 20 22 23 23 24 25 27 28 29

Using the Jesus Prayer Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner

sure to think of God and His endless love and seek His mercy.

The practice of the Jesus Prayer is differ-

This prayer has the potential to transform your consciousness and bring you closer to God. It is a prayer rooted deeply in the tradition of the Church. It is a prayer to be repeated over and over, many times.

You can begin to develop the use of this prayer by incorporating a number of repetitions in your daily prayer rule. It is a simple prayer and you can learn to say it everywhere and at any time. In fact, your aim should be to make it an unending prayer. In this way your whole life becomes a life of prayer.

The use of the Jesus Prayer is done with an attitude of repentance and humility seeking an encounter with the living Christian God, Jesus Christ. We may gain benefits of relaxation or reduced stress, but this is not the aim of our effort.

Union with God is. It is NOT a mantra to simply quiet the mind. You will also gain this benefit if you learn to repeat it hundreds of times, but it is important that you truly feel contrition for your sinfulness and seek God’s mercy as you repeat it. All prayer is about a personal relationship with God.

Recognize, however, that this prayer is incredibly difficult to practice even though it seems to be very simple. In its practice, you continually recite it so that it permeates your heart and focuses your mind, predisposing you to follow God’s will instead of your own ego-directed will.

Start by repeating it for ten minutes in the morning or evening. Begin by saying it out loud or at least by moving your lips.

Eventually you will repeat it mentally, but start with a verbal prayer. Add more repetitions, slowly building up the time you are able to concentrate on the prayer.

When your mind wanders, bring it back to the prayer. Concentrate, but do not be harsh on yourself. This is not something you will master with your self-will. Ask God to help you conquer the restlessness of your mind. With persistence, humility and patience, the practice of this prayer will prepare you for God’s grace to work actively within you.

Along with saying this prayer as part of your prayer rule, try to say it whenever you can. You can do this while walking, while waiting in the doctor’s office, in line at the post office, or while waiting to board a plane. You can say it when doing dishes or yard work. You can say it when you are stressed, afraid, or nervous.

When you become angry, repeat this prayer over and over until your anger subsides. Do this whenever your mind is agitated, and you will find that it will calm your mind. When you do say it, be

our modern culture to serve as means of relaxation or ways to lessen the stress of our over-active lives. They form the basis of the “New Age” spiritual movement. They are taught without any specific aim of repentance, nor the purpose of doing the will of God, nor of seeking union with Christ.

ent than Far-Eastern Buddhist, Hindu or Sufi practice. In Buddhism, a common practice is to constantly repeat a mantra such as “Om mani padme hum.” The aim of Buddhism is to free oneself from all suffering and attain what the Buddha called “Nirvana” or the perfect peace of mind. This peace of mind is achieved through various meditation techniques.

The Buddha never taught about any form of God. Many practice this form of meditation to gain calmness in their lives.

Sufism is a branch of Islam that also employs forms of meditation. Sufi scholars define Sufism as “a science whose objective is the reparation of the heart and turning it away from all else but God.” In meditation they aim to reach an awareness of their oneness with the universe, believing that in doing so they can attain fundamental truths that are within us, but often remain hidden. They do not believe that Jesus is God, but view Him as only a prophet. In Hinduism the chief aim is to gain release from the cycle of reincarnation caused by karma – the consequences of past actions, in this or in previous lives! This is achieved though meditation techniques. This release leads to some kind of absolute Truth. Many of these approaches have been adapted by VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 3

Many Orthodox Christians use a prayer rope to aid them in concentration as they repeat the Jesus Prayer. Prayer Ropes come in a great variety of forms and sizes. Most prayer ropes have a cross woven into them or attached to mark the “end,” and also have some kind of marker after each 10, 25, or 50 knots or beads. There are many forms of prayer ropes, some knotted of wool or silk, or other more elegant or simpler materials.

At the time of our regular prayer, when you pray following your rule of prayer, hold the prayer rope with your hand between the thumb and the index finger and move from knot to knot each time you say the prayer. Do this until the number of repetitions in your rule have been completed.

“Just as it is impossible to fight battles without weapons, or to swim a great sea with clothes on, or to live without breathing, so without humility and the constant prayer to Christ it is impossible to master the art of inward spiritual warfare or to set about it and pursue it skillfully.” Saint Hesychios.

By Fr. Dn. Charles Joiner, in the Orthodox Way of Life.

Attaining the Kingdom Of Heaven How do we attain the Kingdom of Heaven? Where is it to be found? It is very easy for us in the Western world to view this Kingdom as something that one attains as a final destination or ending of a journey. As Orthodox Christians, we believe that the Kingdom of Heaven is Christ Himself, not a physical place or location.

It is within Christ that the Kingdom is to be experienced. For this reason, we cannot think of the Kingdom as something we are either “in” or “out” of. Through baptism and a life of repentance, we participate in the Life of Christ, and thus we participate in the Kingdom. The Kingdom is a dynamic state, wherein we grow in perfection through God’s grace. Our journey is not to the Kingdom, our journey is in the Kingdom.

As long as we are struggling to be Christlike, we are assuredly tasting of the Fountain of Immortality. When the struggle ends and the growth ceases, the Kingdom disappears. It is nowhere to be found. The moment we think we have achieved something, that we have earned our place, then we have lost the Kingdom. Our struggles are meaningless without Christ, and vice versa: without struggles, we are meaningless, because we will lose Christ.

Our Lord is only with those who need Him. When we lose our daily need for Him, then our souls become satisfied with the world. A man who does not hunger does not eat, and so one who does not hunger for God cannot partake of His goodness. This is why the Church has always urged us to participate in spiritual exercises like fasting and almsgiving, that we might stir up within ourselves the hunger for God. This hunger, this desire for God, will draw us closer to Him. This is why Christ urges us to take up our crosses and follow Him. We ought not to seek after a life of ease, but rather boldly face our burdens with the confidence that in our suffering, we will be visited and comforted by Christ Himself.

Just as Christ disdained earthly glory for the shame and suffering of the Cross so that we might live, so we ought to remind ourselves that the applause of the world is the rattling of dead men’s bones. “Woe to you when all men speak well of you, For so did their fathers to the false prophets” (Luke 6:26). When we endure our Cross out of love for God and His children, when we patiently endure our trials, we grow in experiential knowledge of God Himself. The world tries to kill us, but we realize its weakness in the face of God. The Kingdom of God is not a fluffy pillow or a down mattress. It is found by the VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 4

nun sleeping on a board, or the elderly woman suffering in her hospital bed. The Kingdom of Heaven is a spiritual condition that no earthly situation can overcome. The nun sings songs, and the afflicted woman offers pure prayers.

They both go through hardships that draw them closer to Christ.

You may ask yourself, “How can I suffer as they do?” You need not live in a monastery or a hospital to experience this growth; you can participate in the same perfecting journey by unconditionally loving and serving those around you. Do you hear bad things about someone?

Then pray for them! Do you have a dis-

agreement with someone? Then humble yourself and apologize! Loving your enemies and being modest are difficult tasks, yet they are perfecting works.

When God sees our struggles to put aside our ego, He will grant us strength. When He sees us acting on our desire to enter into the Kingdom of His love, then He will help us in our time of need. No one shall ever perish from seeking after God. What will die as we participate in the Kingdom is our sinfulness. Our wretched arrogance and pride will suffer a horrible death in the presence of God’s mercy and compassion. We will realize how unworthy we are to be in the Kingdom. And, as we see ourselves as sinners and unfaithful, our Lord shares with us His worthiness and faithfulness.

To not discredit the worthiness that Christ has shared with us, we must behave in a worthy manner. We must, as the Liturgy teaches us, “lay aside all earthly cares, that we may receive the King of all.” If we are bound by earthly cares, we cannot escape sin and temptation. Slander, gossip, anger, infidelity, theft, and all other sins stem from a heart filled with the world, not with Christ. A child of the Kingdom, who walks daily with Christ in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, has no time for sins. Once you truly taste the Kingdom of Heaven, then worldly cares have no appeal.

If we seek honor, then we are nursing our pride.

The Apostles themselves struggled with this. As they walked with Christ, He taught them of the coming Kingdom. He gradually led them to understand that the Cross and the Resurrection were His way of sharing with them His divinity and renewed humanity. Yet they still struggled. The Gospel of Mark says: Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Him, saying,

“Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask.” And He said to them, “What do you want Me to do for you?” They said to Him, “Grant us that we may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on Your left, in Your glory.” But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” They said to Him, “We are able.” So Jesus said to them, “You will indeed drink the cup that I drink, and with the baptism I am baptized with you will be baptized; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared.” (Mark 10:35–40)

As we hear in the Scripture, to be exalted and glorified is not ours to seek out.

Indeed, we will share in the trials of this life as Christ did, but we ought not to ask for glory and earthly honors. The Apostles assumed that our Lord had come to establish an earthly kingdom. They pictured a great castle and a fancy court.

They fantasized about riches and grandeur, but they missed the point. The point is that the glory is not so important as the partaking.

“Many are called, but few are chosen” (Matthew 22:14). If we can squeeze through the narrow gate, we ought to be satisfied. Those who seek the chief seats will be disappointed, which is why our Lord tells us to take the lowest. Do not think for a moment that seeking honors in the Church is somehow more spiritual than seeking honors in business or the social realm.

If we seek honor, then we are nursing our pride. This child will grow up to be our captor, for pride tells us we are perfect and have no need for God. Pride tells us how inferior others are, and how they do not deserve our love or mercy. Pride will keep us outside the gates of repentance, telling us that we have no sins to confess and that we have the right to judge others.

Let us lay aside pride and arrogance, so that we can be saved by Christ and partake of His Kingdom. Let us grow in our VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 5

love for Him, each day living out our baptism by drinking from the cup of cosuffering love for others. Let us take up our crosses and follow Christ in this world, being in the world, but not of it.

When God sees our struggles to put aside our ego, He will grant us strength.

Beloved in Christ, we have been given so very much. It is now up to us whether we will grow more like Christ, or lose the Kingdom by conforming ourselves to worldly expectations. To grow in Christ, to grow in the Kingdom, means to be more loving, more forgiving, more generous, more supportive of others, more positive, more encouraging, more prayerful.

If we desire the Kingdom, then we desire the will of the King. Our Lord’s desire is that His Kingdom be full, and so it is up to us to bring others in and keep those we have. Let us be good hosts and hostesses in the Kingdom. Let us serve the tables of the Lord, that the wedding banquet may be full of joy. There is a whole nation outside waiting to see the Kingdom. Let us all show them what it is like to grow in Christ.

His Grace, Bishop JOSEPH, His Grace JOSEPH serves as Bishop of the Diocese of Los Angeles and the West and is also responsible for the Diocese of Eagle River and the Northwest. This article was adapted from a speech by Bishop JOSEPH at a Northern California AOCWNA (Antiochian Orthodox Christian Women of North America) retreat during November, 2002.

Thoughts from the Holy Fathers on education With us everything should be secondary compared to our concern with children, and their upbringing in the instruction and teaching of the Lord.

—St. John Chrysostom Young people must be made to distinguish between helpful and injurious knowledge, keeping clearly in mind that Christian's purpose in life. So, like an athlete or the musician, they must bend every energy to one task, the winning of the heavenly crown.

—St. Basil the Great.

Seek out with much care and thought a teacher who will be a safe guide to you in your manner of life; one who knows well how to lead such as are journeying towards God; a teacher who is rich in virtues [...] and wise in the Holy Scriptures.

—St. Basil the Great

Discipline must always be applied to the wrong-doer after the manner of physicians, who are not angry with patients, but fight the disease… Treat the disease, not the person. Pride, therefore will be corrected by ordering the practice of humility, aimless talk by silence, immoderate sleep by wakefulness in prayer, slothfulness by work, greediness by abstinence from food, discontent by separation from the other brethren.

—St. Basil the Great

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 3:16 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the counsel of saints is understanding.

Proverbs 9:10 Did you know…

It is not the amount of learning that must be our aim, but the quality of learning.

Better to learn two verses with understanding, than a whole page with wandering thoughts.

—St. John Cassian Scripture quotations And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 6

The meaning of “I believe” in the Creed?

The Scripture and entire tradition of the Church teaches that believing in God means not only intellectual assent to various truths about Him, but also a desire to live a moral life according to the commandments.

To believe in God is to order one's life to moral amendment, and ardent desire to obey Him in all things. It is impossible for a person who does not desire to become perfect, as God commands to honestly say “I believe in one God.”

C E L E B R AT I O N * D E D I C AT I O N * P R O G R E S S * V I S I O N Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ— Stewards of St. George Parish: I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for all people... [1 Tim 2:1]

I begin my report with these words of Saint Paul the Apostle because prayer is at the heart of the Christian life—as unique persons, we are created by God to pray—as the Body of Christ we are called to be a people of prayer. Prayer is called to be at the source of all that we do. It is the action which both unifies and empowers us to do God's will.

The gift of prayer is open to all of us, young and old. When we pray for each other we express our faith in God and love for each other. I especially call upon the elderly, those limited in physical mobility, but free in spiritual mobility, to give of their time in prayer for others. I ask you to be stewards of this good work.

All of us can offer this ministry of prayer for the benefit of all in our community. I encourage you to expand the opportunities for prayer so that we can be fortified to glorify God with greater strength.

As members of Saint George parish, you know the power of freely giving back to God the first portion of your time, talents, and treasure. May this prayer vigilance both guide and inspire you to make a greater gift of yourself to the Lord.

With prayer, our lives in the Church— for the life of the world—will be empowered by God's guidance and grace. Let us all pray daily that God's kingdom come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

The Ecclesiastical year of our Lord, 2012/13, at St. George parish was filled with the grace, mercy and love of God, many blessed events, all for the glorification of God and the Church’s growth.

Our God protected St. George community continues to offer a new way of life to people and the witness of the Church to the modern world in San Diego area and beyond.

With the beginning of Church School around the corner (September 8), this is an exciting time for children and parents and a wonderful opportunity to include Stewardship in discussions with our children. Whether they are in primary schools or on their way to college, it is important to provide them with an understanding of Stewardship as well as to set an example as parents. The greatest benefit is that as they grow older, the ministry of Stewardship will be a constant in their lives and as they understand that everything they have is provided through God's grace (even the oxygen they breathe) - it is important that they give of their Time, Talents, and Treasures. This is a very important requirement from God and a necessity for our salvation.

Some of the vital statistics are as follows (Jan. 1, 2013 – Aug. 11, 2013): • Divine Liturgy: Regularly served on Sundays and Major Feast Days • Vespers: Regularly served on Saturdays and eves of the Major Feast Days • Matins: Served every Sunday before the Liturgy.

• Baptisms/Chrismation: 8 • Visitations to the sick (hospital & home): 21 • Funerals: 5 • Marriages: 1 • Marriage Enrichment sessions: 6 • Catechism sessions for adults (Book club): 15 • Deacon Paul Germain is on an extended sabbatical until further notice.

Church School: In 2012/13, we had 23 children registered in our Church School. We have four Sunday School Teachers and one superintendent.

Bible Study: We have, for now, one bible study group for adults.

Book Club: Book Club was started in 2012. We read two books so far and had around eight participants.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 7

Summer Camps: We participated in the Summer Camp Program of our Diocese.

In the second week of camp we had four adults and nine children and the third week of camp we had two adults and eleven children from our parish.

Serbian Cultural Program: The three Morava groups are very active with their programs and have demonstrated great enthusiasm this year. I wish to thank their directors, choreographers, parents and supporters.

Music Ministry: In addition to our St George choir, we for now, have a small group of cantors who regularly sing and chant the Vespers, Matins, Liturgies, and special feast day services. We are also further developing our Children’s Choir in our Sunday School.

Sotaya: With the Blessings of the Episcopal Council of the Serbian Orthodox Church in North and South America and the support of the Central Church Council, we announce the reestablishment of the Serbian Orthodox Teachers and Youth Association. The purpose of this ministry is to unite the teachers, young adults, and youth members of the Serbian Orthodox Teachers and Youth AssoContinued on page 8.

Continued from page 7.

ciation. The purpose of this ministry is to unite the teachers, young adults, and youth members of the Serbian Orthodox Church in the Dioceses throughout North and South America. It is a special forum through which people will be brought closer together through a ministry of faith and fellowship.

St. Nikolai of Zicha Oratorical Festival was held during Diocesan Days at St. Steven’s Cathedral, Aug. 30 through Sept. 1, 2013. I am delighted to report that Oksana Germain placed second (see page 19 to read her essay).

With kind thanksgiving thoughts and prayers before the Lord for each of you, Father Bratso Krsic, Parish Priest

Non-Judgment and the Forgiveness of Offenses It is not right to judge anyone, even if you have seen someone sinning and wallowing in the violations of God’s laws with your own eyes, as is said in the word of God: Judge not, that ye be not judged, (Mt. 7:1). Who art thou that judgest another man’s servant? To his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand (Rom. 14:4). It is much better always to bring to memory the words of the apostle: Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. (1 Cor. 10:12).

The Western American Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church in North and South America held its annual Diocesan Days gathering, this year marking several momentous anniversaries: 50 years of the founding of the Diocese; 150 years of the birth of Archimandrite Sebastian Dabovich, Holy Apostle to the Americas; and 1,700 years of the Edict of Milan. Events included a Saturday morning symposium, focusing on the freedom to pursue our faith since the time of Constantine 1,700 years ago and how to better live a spiritual life. Symposium speakers were Hieromonk Iakovos of Simonopetra, Mt. Athos, the V. Rev. Dr. John Erickson of St. Vladimir Seminary, and Dr. James Skedros of Holy Cross Seminary. The program offered events intended to maximize sharing among participants to deepen their experience of faith and fellowship, to increase their knowledge of ecclesial truths and to provide space for entertainment. Also included was an exhibition of recently completed American landscapes in an abstract Byzantine style by Fr. Stamatis Skliris as well as music, folk dance, and artisanal beer and wine tastings.

Dr. Michael Pravica, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, gave a special presentation on the work of Nikola Tesla, son of a Serbian Orthodox priest and scientist extraordinaire. (Above: Father Bratso & his family with other guests at the event banquet.)

One must not harbor anger or hatred towards a person that is hostile toward us. On the contrary, one must love him and do as much good as possible towards him, following the teaching of our Lord Jesus Christ: Love your enemies, do good to them that hate you (Mt. 5:44). If then we will try to fulfill all this to the extent of our power, we can hope that God’s light will begin to shine in our hearts, lighting our path to the heavenly Jerusalem.

Why do we judge our neighbors?

Because we are not trying to get to know ourselves. Someone busy trying to understand himself has no time to notice the shortcomings of others. Judge yourself — and you will stop judging others.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 8

Judge a poor deed, but do not judge the doer. It is necessary to consider yourself the most sinful of all, and to forgive your neighbor every poor deed. One must hate only the devil, who tempted him. It can happen that someone might appear to be doing something bad to us, but in reality, because of the doer's good intentions, it is a good deed. Besides, the door of penitence is always open, and it is not known who will enter it sooner — you, the judge, or the one judged by you.

From the Teachings of St. Seraphim of Sarov (1759-1833)

Saints and Feasts Celebrated during September, October, November September 21—The Nativity of the Most-holy Theotokos

the race of man, the Praise of womanhood, the Fount of virginity and puritythis was the daughter given by God to Joachim and Anna. She was born in Nazareth, and at the age of three, was taken to the Temple in Jerusalem. In her young womanhood she returned again to Nazareth, and shortly thereafter heard the Annunciation of the Holy Archangel Gabriel concerning the birth of the Son of God, the Savior of the world, from her most-pure virgin body.

у Назарету, а после 3 године одведена у храм Јерусалимски, одакле се вратила опет у Назарет, да ускоро чује благовест св. архангела Гаврила о рођењу Сина Божјег, Спаситеља света, из њенога пречистога и девичанскога тела.

September 27—The Exaltation of the Honorable Cross

21 септембра —Рождество Пресвете Богородице

The Holy Virgin Mary was the child of Joachim and Anna. Her father was of the lineage of David, and her mother of the lineage of Aaron. Thus, she was of royal birth by her father, and of priestly birth by her mother. In this, she foreshadowed Him Who would be born of her as King and High Priest. Her parents were quite old and had no children. Because of this they were ashamed before men and humble before God. In their humility they prayed to God with tears, to bring them joy in their old age by giving them a child, as He had once given joy to the aged Abraham and his wife Sarah by giving them Isaac. The Almighty and Allseeing God rewarded them with a joy that surpassed all their expectations and all their most beautiful dreams.

For He gave them not just a daughter, but the Mother of God. He illumined them not only with temporal joy, but with eternal joy as well. God gave them just one daughter, and she would later give them just one grandson-but what a daughter and what a Grandson! Mary, Full of grace, Blessed among women, the Temple of the Holy Spirit, the Altar of the Living God, the Table of the Heavenly Bread, the Ark of God's Holiness, the Tree of the Sweetest Fruit, the Glory of

Света Дева Марија роди се од старих родитеља својих, Јоакима и Ане. Отац јој беше из племена Давидова, а матер од рода Аронова. И тако она беше по оцу од рода царска, а по мајци од рода архијерејска, и тиме већ предображаваше Онога, који ће се из ње родити, као Цара и Првосвештеника. Њени родитељи беху већ остарели, а немаху деце. И зато беху постидни пред људима и скрушени пред Богом. И у скрушености својој мољаху се Богу с плачем, да обрадује старост њихову даровањем једнога чеда, као што је некад обрадовао старца Аврама и старицу Сару даровавши им сина Исака. И Бог свемогући и свевидећи обрадова их радошћу, која је превазилазила далеко сва њихова очекивања и све најлепше снове. Јер им дарова не само ћерку но и Богомајку; озари их не само радошћу временом него и вечном. Даде им Бог само једну ћерку, која им доцније роди само једног унука, – али какву ћерку и каквог унука! Благодатна Марија, благословена међу женама, храм Духа Светога. олтар Бога Живога, трапеза хлеба небеснога, кивот светиње Божје, дрво најслађега плода, слава рода људског, похвала рода женског, источник девства и чистоте – то беше Богом дарована ћерка Јоакима и Ане. Рођена VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 9

Two events in connection with the Honorable Cross of Christ are commemorated on this day: first, the finding of the Honorable Cross on Golgotha and second, the return of the Honorable Cross from Persia to Jerusalem. Visiting the Holy Land, the holy Empress Helena decided to find the Honorable Cross of Christ. An old Jewish man named Judah was the only one who knew where the Cross was located, and, constrained by the empress, he revealed that the Cross was buried under the temple of Venus that Emperor Hadrian had built on Golgotha. The empress ordered that this idolatrous temple be razed and, having dug deep below it, found three crosses.

Continued on page 10

Continued from page 9 While the empress pondered on how to recognize which of these was the Cross of Christ, a funeral procession passed by.

Patriarch Macarius told them to place the crosses, one by one, on the dead man.

When they placed the first and second cross on the dead man, the dead man lay unchanged. When they placed the third cross on him, the dead man came back to life. By this they knew that this was the Precious and Life-giving Cross of Christ.

They then placed the Cross on a sick woman, and she became well. The patriarch elevated the Cross for all the people to see, and the people sang with tears: ``Lord, have mercy!''

Empress Helena had a silver case made and set the Honorable Cross in it. Later, the Persian Emperor Chozroes conquered Jerusalem, enslaved many people, and took the Lord's Cross to Persia.

The Cross remained in Persia for fourteen years. In the year 628 the Greek Emperor Heraclius defeated Chozroes and, with much ceremony, returned the Cross to Jerusalem. As he entered the city Emperor Heraclius carried the Cross on his back, but suddenly was unable to take another step. Patriarch Zacharias saw an angel preventing the emperor from bearing the Cross on the same path that the Lord had walked barefoot and humiliated. The patriarch communicated this vision to the emperor. The emperor removed his raiment and, in ragged attire and barefoot, took up the Cross, carried it to Golgotha, and placed it in the Church of the Resurrection, to the joy and consolation of the whole Christian world.

27. септембра —Крстовдан Овога дана празнују се два догађаја у вези са часним Крстом Христовим: прво проналазак часног Крста на Голготи, и друго повратак часног Крста из Персије опет у Јерусалим. Обилазећи Свету Земљу св. царица Јелена намисли да потражи часни Крст Христов. Неки старац Јеврејин, по имену Јуда, једини знаде место где се Крст нахођаше, па присиљен од царице изјави, да је Крст закопан под храмом Венериним, кога подиже на

Голготи цар Адријан. Царица нареди, те порушише тај идолски храм, па копајући у дубину нађоше три крста. Док царица беше у недоумици, како да распозна Крст Христов, пролажаше мимо тога места пратња са мртвацем. Тада патријарх Макарије рече, да мећу на мртваца редом један по један крст. Када метнуше први и други крст, мртвац лежаше непромењено. А када ставише на њ трећи крст, мртвац оживе. По томе познаше, да је то часни и животворни Крст Христов. Метнуше га по том и на једну болесну жену, и жена оздрави. Тада патријарх уздиже крст, да га сав народ види, а народ са сузама певаше: Господе помилуј! Царица Јелена направи ковчег од сребра и положи у њ часни Крст. Доцније цар Хозрој освојивши Јерусалим, одведе многи народ у ропство и однесе Крст Господњи у Персију. У Персији Крст је лежао 14 година. 628. год. цар грчки Ираклије победи Хозроја и са славом поврати Крст у Јерусалим. Ушавши у град цар Ираклије ношаше Крст на својим леђима. Но на једанпут стаде цар и не могаше ни корака крочити. Патријарх Захарија виде ангела, који спречаваше цару да у раскошном царском оделу иде под Крстом и то по оном путу по коме је Господ, бос и понижен, ходио. То виђење објави патријарх цару. Тада се цар свуче, па у бедној одећи и босоног узе Крст, изнесе га на Голготу, и положи у храм Васкрсења, на радост и утеху целог хришћанског света.

The Glorification of Saints in the Orthodox Church is recognition that God’s Holiness is Manifested in the Church through these Grace-filled Men and Women whose Lives were Pleasing to God.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 10

October 27—The Venerable Parasceva [Petka]

This glorious saint was of Serbian descent, and was born in the town of Epivat between Selymbria and Constantinople. St. Parasceva's parents were wealthy, devout Christians. They also had a son, Euthymius, who was tonsured a monk during his parents' lifetime, and later became the famous Bishop of Madytos. The virgin Parasceva always yearned for the ascetic life for the sake of Christ. After her parents' repose, she left her home and went first to Constantinople, then to the wilderness of Jordan, where she lived the ascetic life until old age.

Who can express all the labors, sufferings and demonic temptations that St. Parasceva endured in the course of her many years? In her old age, an angel of God once appeared to her and said: ``Leave the wilderness and return to your homeland; it is necessary that you render your body to the earth there, and your soul to the habitation of the Lord.'' St. Parasceva obeyed, and returned to Epivat. There she lived for two years in ceaseless fasting and prayer, then gave up her soul to God and took up her abode in Paradise. St. Parasceva entered into rest in the eleventh century. Over the course of time her relics were translated to Constantinople, to Trnovo, again to Constantinople, and then to Belgrade.

Her relics now repose in Romania, in the town of Iasi. In Belgrade, the well of St. Petka miraculously heals the sick who draw near with faith in God and love for this saint.

27. октобра —Преп. Петка — Параскева

November 8 —The Holy Great-martyr Demetrius

Ова славна светитељка беше српскога порекла, рођена у граду Епивату (Пиват, по турски Бојадос, између Силимврије и Цариграда. Родитељи св. Петке беху имућни и побожни хришћани, и осим Петке имађаху и једнога сина, Јевтимија, који се за живота родитеља замонаши, и доцније поста знаменити епископ Мадитски. По смрти родитеља девица Петка, вазда жељна живота подвижничког Христа ради, напусти дом родитељски и оде најпре у Цариград, а потом у пустињу Јорданску, где се подвизавала до старости своје. Ко би могао исказати све трудове, и патње, и искушења демонска, која претрпе св. Петка у току многих година? Под старост јави јој се једном ангел Божји и рече јој: „остави пустињу, и врати се у твоје отечество: потребно је да тамо предаш своје тело земљи, а душом да се преселиш Господу". Св. Петка послуша глас с неба, остави омиљену јој пустињу, и врати се у Епиват. Ту она, проживе још две године, опет у непрестаном посту и молитви, и онда предаде дух свој Богу и пресели се у рајска насеља. Упокојила се у XI столећу. Мошти њене чудотворне у току времена беху преношене: у Цариград, у Трново, па опет у Цариград, па у Београд. Сада се налазе у Румунији, у граду Јашу. У београдском граду налази се вода (агиазма) св. Петке, која чудотворно лечи све оне болеснике, који с вером у Бога и љубави према овој светитељки к њој притичу.

By the Cross, the Son of God having become man, accomplished our salvation...

(Phil. 2:8)

This glorious and wonderworking saint was born in Thessalonica of noble and devout parents. Implored of God by childless parents, Demetrius was their only son, and so was raised and educated with great care. Demetrius's father was a commander in Thessalonica. When his father died, Emperor Maximian appointed Demetrius as commander in his place. As he appointed him, Maximian, an opponent of Christ, particularly recommended that he persecute and exterminate the Christians in Thessalonica. Demetrius not only disobeyed the emperor but openly confessed and preached the Lord Jesus Christ in the city of Thessalonica.

When the emperor heard of this he became furious with Demetrius. Then, when he was returning from battle against the Sarmatians, Maximian stopped at Thessalonica to investigate the matter. The emperor summoned Demetrius and questioned him about his faith. Demetrius openly acknowledged his Christian Faith to the emperor and also denounced the emperor's idolatry.

Maximian cast Demetrius into prison.

Knowing what was awaiting him, Demetrius gave all his goods to his faithful servant Lupus to distribute to the poor, and joyfully awaited his imminent suffering for Christ the Lord. An angel of God appeared to him in prison, saying: ``Peace be to you, O sufferer of Christ; be brave and be strong!'' After several days, the emperor sent soldiers to the VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 11

prison to kill Demetrius. The soldiers found the saint of God at prayer and ran him through with lances. Christians secretly took his body and honorably buried it. Healing myrrh flowed from the body of the martyr of Christ, curing many of the sick. Soon, a small church was built over his relics.

An Illyrian nobleman, Leontius, was afflicted with an incurable illness. He hastened, with prayer, to the relics of St. Demetrius and was completely healed.

In thanksgiving, Leontius erected a much larger church on the site of the old church. The saint appeared to him on two occasions. When Emperor Justinian wanted to translate the relics of the saint from Thessalonica to Constantinople, flaming sparks sprang from the tomb and a voice was heard: ``Stop, and do not touch!'' And thus, the relics of St. Demetrius have remained for all time in Thessalonica. As the protector of Thessalonica, St. Demetrius has appeared many times, and on many occasions has saved Thessalonica from great calamity. His miracles are without number. The Russians considered St. Demetrius to be the protector of Siberia, which was conquered and annexed to Russia on October 26, 1581.

8. новембра —Св. вел. муч. Димитрије Овај славни и чудотворни светитељ роди се у граду Солуну од родитеља благородних и благочестивих. Измољен од Бога од бездетних родитеља Димитрије беше јединац син њихов, због чега би с великом пажњом однегован и васпитан. Његов отац беше војвода Солунски; па кад му отац умре, цар постави Димитрија за војводу на место оца. Поставивши га за војводу христоборни цар Максимијан нарочито му препоручи да гони и истребљује хришћане у Солуну. Но Димитрије не само не послуша цара него, напротив, јавно исповедаше и проповедаше Христа Господа у граду Солуну. Чувши то цар веома се огорчи на Димитрија, па када се једном враћаше из рата против Сармата, Continued on page 12. цар

Continued from page 11. Максимијан сврати у Солун нарочито, да ствар испита. Призва, дакле, цар Димитрија војводу и испитиваше га о вери. Димитрије јавно пред царем призна да је хришћанин, и уз то још изобличи царево идолопоклонство. Разјарени цар баци Димитрија у тамницу. Знајући шта га чека Димитрије уручи све своје имање своме верноме послушнику Лупу, да разда сиротињи, и оде у тамницу весео, што му предстојаше страдање за Христа Господа. У тамници му се јави ангел божји и рече му: „мир ти, страдалче Христов, мужај се и крепи се!" После неколико дана посла цар војнике у тамницу да убију Димитрија. Војници нађоше светитеља Божјег на молитви, и избодоше га копљем. Тело његово узеше хришћани потајно и сахранише чесно. Из тела страдалца Христова потече целебно миро, којим се многи болесници излечише. Ускоро над моштима би подигнута мала црква. Неки велмож Илирски Леонтије бејаше болестан од неизлечиве болести. Он притече моштима св. Димитрија с молитвом, и би потпуно исцељен. Из благодарности подиже Леонтије много већу цркву на место старе. Светитељ му се јави у два маха. Када цар Јустинијан хтеде пренети мошти светитељеве из Солуна у Цариград, искочише пламене искре од гроба и чу се глас: „станите, и не дирајте!" И тако мошти св. Димитрија осташе заувек у Солуну. Као заштитник Солуна св. Димитрије много се пута јављао и много пута спасао Солун од велике беде. Чудесима његовим броја нема. Св. Димитрија сматрају Руси покровитељем Сибира, који је освојен и Русији присвојен 26. октобра 1581. год.

Among the angels there reign perfect oneness of mind, oneness of soul, and love.

November 21 —T he Holy Archangel Michael and all the Bodiless Powers of heaven

The angels of God were celebrated by men from earliest times but this celebration was often turned into the divinization of angels (II Kings 23:5). The heretics wove all sorts of fables concerning the angels. Some of them looked upon angels as gods; others, although they did not consider them gods, called them the creators of the whole visible world. The local Council of Laodicea (four or five years before the First Ecumenical Council) rejected the worship of angels as gods and established the proper veneration of angels in its Thirty-fifth Canon. In the fourth century, during the time of Sylvester, Pope of Rome, and Alexander, Patriarch of Alexandria, the present Feast of Archangel Michael and all the other heavenly powers was instituted for celebration in the month of November. Why precisely in November?

Because November is the ninth month after March, and March is considered to be the month in which the world was created. Also, as the ninth month after March, November was chosen for the nine orders of angels who were created first. St. Dionysius the Areopagite, a disciple of the Apostle Paul (who was taken up into the third heaven), described these nine orders of angels in his book, On the Celestial Hierarchies, as follows: sixwinged Seraphim, many-eyed Cherubim, God-bearing Thrones, Dominions, Powers, Virtues, Principalities, Archangels, and Angels. The leader of all the VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 12

angelic hosts is the Archangel Michael.

When Satan, Lucifer, fell away from God and drew a part of the angels with him to destruction, then Michael stood up and cried out before the faithful angels: ``Let us attend! Let us stand aright! Let us stand with fear!'' and all of the faithful angelic heavenly hosts cried out: ``Holy! Holy! Holy! Lord God of Sabaoth! Heaven and earth are full of Thy glory!'' Concerning the Archangel Michael, see Joshua 5:13-15 and Jude 1:9.

Among the angels there reign perfect oneness of mind, oneness of soul, and love. The lower orders also show complete obedience to the higher orders, and all of them together to the holy will of God. Every nation has its guardian angel, as does every Christian. We must always remember that whatever we do, in open or in secret, we do in the presence of our guardian angel. On the day of the Dread Judgment, the multitude of the hosts of the holy angels of heaven will gather around the throne of Christ, and the deeds, words, and thoughts of every man will be revealed before all. May God have mercy on us and save us by the prayers of the Archangel Michael and all the bodiless heavenly powers. Amen.

21. новембра —Св. Архистратиг Михаил и остале Силе небесне безтелесне Ангели Божји били су празновани од људи још из дубоке старине. Но то празновање често се изметало у обожавање ангела (IV Цар. 23, 5). Јеретици су свашта баснословили о ангелима. Неки су од тих гледали у ангелима богове; други и ако их не сматраху боговима називаху створитељима васцелог видљивог света. Лаодикајски помесни сабор који беше на 4 или 5 година пре I Васељ. Сабора, својим 35. правилом одбаци поклоњење ангелима као боговима и установи правилно поштовање ангела. У време пак Силвестра папе римског и Александра патријарха александријског (из IV в.) би установљен овај празник Архистратига Михаила и прочих Сила небесних у месецу Новембру.

Зашто баш у Новембру? зато што Новембар представља девети месец после месеца Марта. У месецу Марту сматра се да је било створење света. А девети месец после Марта узет је због 9 чинова ангелских, који су најпре створени. Св. Дионисије Ареопагит, ученик апостола Павла, онога апостола, који се уздигао до у треће небо, описао је ових 9 чинова у књизи „О небесној Јерархији”. Ти чинови су следећи: шестокрили Серафими, многоочити Херувими и богоносни Престоли, Господства, Силе и Власти, Начала, Архангели и Ангели. Војвода целе војске ангелске јесте архистратиг Михаил. Када је сатана, Луцифер, отпао од Бога, и повукао собом у пропаст један део ангела, тада је Михаил устао и узвикнуо пред неотпалим ангелима: вонмемъ! станемъ добрэ, станемъ со страхомъ! И све небесне војске верних ангела громовито су запојале: свјат, свјат, свјат Господ Саваотъ исполнъ небо и земля славы твојеја!! (Види о архангелу Михаилу Ис. Навина 5, 13– 15; св. Јуде 9.) Међу ангелима влада савршено једномислије, једнодушност и љубав, а уз то још и потпуна послушност нижих чинова вишим чиновима, и свих укупно светој вољи Божјој. Сваки народ има свога ангела хранитеља, а осим тога и сваки хришћанин има свога ангела хранитеља. Треба се увек сећати да ма шта ми чинили, јавно или тајно, чинимо у присуству свога ангела хранитеља. А на дан Страшнога Суда сабраће се све огромно мноштво ангела небесних светих око престола Христова, и пред свима њима објавиће се дела, речи и помисли свакога човека. Нека би нас Бог помиловао и спасао молитвама св. архистратига Михаила и прочих небесних сила безтелесних. Амин.

All descriptions taken from the Prologue of Ohrid

Compassion But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. (Matthew 9:36)

Before I worked in a crisis pregnancy center, I was more concerned with the unborn child than the mother. After a year and a half of meeting women in troubled situations, my focus changed.

The child was no less important; only now the mother was as important as the child. I had developed compassion for the women and men who were in a very difficult situation.

Compassion for our fellow human beings is a component of our Christian faith. We are commanded to love one another and compassion is a part of that love. It is putting on our brothers’ and sisters’ shoes, living in their skin, suffering their pain. It is caring for them and doing whatever we can to lighten their burdens. Sometimes it is being tough enough to tell them the truth; at other times it is simply a tender hug.

who could explain the forgiveness of the Lord. Of course I advised her against the abortion and prayed she would change her mind, but I would also be there for her should she decide to have the abortion. This was a side of compassion I had never considered.

Our Lord showed deep compassion throughout His ministry on earth – when He raised Lazarus, when He healed the woman with the issue of blood, when He rebuked the apostles for not letting the children come to Him. In fact, His entire ministry was filled with compassionate service to others. We learn to model compassionate behavior by reading the scriptural accounts of His life.

When we are called to show compassion, we use the tool that unlocks the hearts of those in need. If we can listen without judgment to their feelings, fears, and expectations, we can offer them direction instead of condemnation. True compassion is listening, then acting with the person’s well-being and ultimately her salvation at the heart of your concern. The Holy Spirit will encourage you as you reach out to ease the pain of those who suffer. Whether the need is physical or spiritual, compassion is the key to healing the deep aches of humankind.

I learned through my counseling experiences that I had to develop compassion for women who might ultimately decide on an abortion, though I knew it was wrong. One experience in particular Author Unknown showed me that I had grown in my ability to feel compassion. It was the first time I was able to tell a woman who was considering an abortion that whether she had it or not, I hoped she would come back to the clinic to talk to me. I knew by then that the aftermath of abortion was often devastating, and she would need someone to talk to, (Home altar from http://eroosje.blogspot.com/) someone VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 13

From the President...

Dear Fellow Stewards, As we approach the end of the summer and prepare to get our kids off to school, we mark the start of what promises to be a very busy autumn and winter.

To start with, we have started the renovation of the bar. The old bar has been demolished, and the footings and concrete forms have been set. We are blessed to once again have Milan Djokich and his crew working to get us in under budget. The estimated cost to complete the project is $124,000. Again, I appeal for your help. The executive board has voted to seek out private shortterm loan(s) so that complete this project with as little delay as possible. To get more details on how you can help with our funding needs, please contact me by leaving me a message at the church office or contacting me on my cell phone, 310 408-8638.

We are excited to announce the return of the Serb Festival on Saturday, October 12. It is our hope that we will return the festival to an annual event with a permanent date on the Church Calendar. Nemanja Selazan is the event chairperson, with the following committee chairs: • Entertainment-Dobrila Undhiem and The Morava Senior Group • Kitchen- Snezana Pantovic and KSS will be heading the kitchen staff • Marketing / Publicity – Dobrila Undheim and Katrina Radojevic • Pecenje- Zeljko Milasinovic • Pijaca- Simona Trifunovic and Tina Zivkovic • Bar- Zeljko Milasinovic

We still need someone to head up the Logistics and Kids Zone.

The only way this event has in the past, and will in the future, succeed is by the having volunteers come forward early. Please contact any of the above co chair people and see how you can help.

The Festival has historically been our best means to raise funds, with the grace of God and all of our hard work; we will succeed in achieving our goals once again.

As if this wasn’t enough to keep all of us busy, we need to address the issue of our year-end elections. Our by laws require that an election committee be formed to seek out qualified stewards in good standing to take positions on the board to help guide our precious Parish. At our semi annual assembly I asked for volunteers to step forward, as of yet no one has stepped forward. In order for us to maintain the financial and spiritual stability of St. George, we must get involved. We are at a critical juncture in our Church growth, and we need your time and expertise. Along with positions available for the executive board, the future renovation phase will require a new MPC president to help oversee the final phases of the renovation. We have some amazing people in our stewardship; please lend us your talent!

Scholarships awarded at annual Vidovdan Celebration Church board President Vladan Trifunovic with the winner of the 2013 St. George $1,000 scholarship, Andreja Borovic (top).

Dr. Eva Leonard with the winner of the 2013 Srbich Scholarship, Stefan Raicevich. Dr. Leonard is the daughter of Professor Alexander Srbich, whose foundation established the award. Also attending the event were her husband, Dr. Joseph Leonard, and her mother, Mrs. Jeannette Loh-Hui Pei Srbich.

Vladan Trifunovic, President St. George Serbian Orthodox

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 14

CHURCH CALENDAR 2013-14 SEPTEMBER 30-1

Diocesan Days Weekend at St. Steven’s in Los Angeles; St George Church Closed

8

Sunday Church School begins

22

KOLO Slava

OCTOBER 12

Serbfest, the St George Serbian Festival

17

St. Stefan and Jelena (Stiljanovic)

18-21

Opolo Wine Harvest Festival in Paso Robles, CA

NOVEMBER 16

Cevap Challenge, Saturday

24

Stewardship Sunday (watch for details)

28

Thanksgiving Day

28

Nativity Fast begins (through January 6, 2013)

DECEMBER 19

St. Nicholas – Serbian Children’s Day

22

Serbian Children’s’ Day (Sunday)

29

Serbian Mothers’ Day (Sunday)

31

Calendar New Year’s Eve

JANUARY 2014 6

Badnje Vece/Christmas Eve

7

Bozic/Nativity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

19

Annual Stewardship Meeting

26

St. Sava Celebration

31

Tablic Tournament & Przene Girice—MORAVA fund raiser, Friday

DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. For more information please call Fr. Bratso Krsic at 619-276-5827 or visit www.SaintGeorgeInSD.org Orthodox Christian Stewardship is… …a lifestyle choice that recognizes that everything is a gift from God. Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ taught that our responsibility as disciples is to recognize that God is the provider of all that we possess and that our call is to be generous givers.

An Orthodox Christian steward contributes his or her time, talent, and financial resources with a willing and joyful spirit. Being a generous giver is a spiritual response to God’s goodness and love.

The Prayer of Stewardship Lord Jesus Christ, Thou are the Good Steward, who redeemed Adam and Eve of their failed stewardship by offering Thyself for the life of the world. Thou didst teach us in the feeding of the multitudes that whatever we give to God is returned to us manifold. Thou didst praise those good and faithful servants in the parable of the talents who returned to the Master their gifts multiplied. So help us to learn the joy of stewardship, remembering that everything we have comes from Thee. For Thou art the Good Steward and to Thee we offer thanksgiving, praise and glory, together with Thy Father who is everlasting and Thine all-holy, good and life-giving Spirit now and ever and onto the ages of ages. Amen

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 15

Qualities of an Orthodox Christian Steward •

Compassionate

•

Content

•

Generous

•

Grateful

•

Loving

•

Loyal

•

Obedient

•

Prayerful

•

Responsible

•

Sacrificial

•

Sharing

•

Trustworthy

Sunday Church School Dear Parents and Parishioners of St. George Parish, We have an exciting Church School program planned for the children this year, and we pray you will make it a priority for your children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and kumovi—all who are willing and open to learning and growing in the Holy Orthodox Faith!

We are ever so grateful to God for blessing us with loving and caring teachers and parents. We, of course, look forward to all parents getting involved in teaching, so please, don’t be shy, step forward and volunteer some time in our classrooms.

Please see below for the exciting programs we have planned.

• First Day of Church School September 8, 2013 • Classes begin for Levels 1, 2, and 3 following the Divine Liturgy • Annual Children’s Christmas Play, January 6, 2014 • Rehearsals begin on December 20 and will be held during class time • Annual Children’s St. Sava Program, January 26, 2014 • Rehearsals begin on January 10 and will be held during class time • Scholarships available to qualified students (for attendance three out of four Sundays; four out of five Sundays).

• Tuition to Diocesan Summer Camp in Jackson, California • Tuition to the National Serbian Orthodox Youth Conference • Other Outreach and ministry activities will be planned throughout the year!

Please give your completed forms to either Fr. Bratso or one of our teachers/parents. You may also bring them to the church on Sunday, September 8, 2013. Contact us if you have any questions!

Thank you for supporting our youth and for bringing your children to Church School. We look forward to a blessed and exhilarating and grace filled growth in our Orthodox Faith.

Children enjoying the end of the Church School year in June with pizza for everyone and a big jumper attraction in the church yard.

Fr. Bratso Krsic

Bring your children to Sunday Church School! , Grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, or kumovi, bring them!

Learn about the Orthodox Faith, cultural traditions, Christian music, the Serbian language, and much more.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 16

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Child’s Name:______________________________Baptized in the Orthodox Church: yes or no.

Age:____________Birth date:________________________________Grade:________________ Special needs/medical conditions (including medication):________________________________ 2nd Child’s Name:___________________________Baptized in the Orthodox Church: yes or no.

Age:____________Birth date:_________________________________Grade:_______________ Special needs/medical conditions (including medication):________________________________ 3rd Child’s Name:___________________________Baptized in the Orthodox Church: yes or no.

Age:____________Birth date:_________________________________Grade:_______________ Special needs/medical conditions (including medication):________________________________ Slava â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Patron Saint Feast Day:____________________________________________________ Additional Children:_____________________________________________________________ Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Names:________________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________________________ Phone numbers:________________________________________________________________ E-mail:_______________________________________________________________________ Parents, please mark all activities you can assist with: 1. Teaching________________________________________________________________ 2. Substitute teacher_________________________________________________________ 3. Diocesan Summer Camp____________________________________________________ 4. Vacation Bible Camp ______________________________________________________ 5. Fall Sunday School Party___________________________________________________ 6. Christmas Program________________________________________________________ 7. St. Sava Program__________________________________________________________ 8. Field Trips_______________________________________________________________ 9. Provide supplies (arts and crafts material, etc)___________________________________ 10. Provide additional snacks if needed___________________________________________ 11. Serbian language classes____________________________________________________ 12. Other (please specify)______________________________________________________ 3OHDVH UHWXUQ WKLV IRUP WR WKH FKXUFK RIILFH DV VRRQ DV SRVVLEOH 7+$1. <28 $GGLWLRQDO IRUPV DUH DYDLODEOH LQ WKH FKXUFK RIILFH

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VOICE OF ST. GEORGE â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2013 17

Remember: “VERA, LJUBAV I NADA” should guide us all.

God bless you all!

The Kolo Sisters’ Corner Dearest fellow parishioners of St. George:

Snezana Pantovic, Kolo President It is that time of year again—Sisters Slava is approaching and will be celebrated on September 22. Please mark your calendars and support your sisters. Our organization is over 60 years old, and we would love to celebrate all our sisterhood PAST and PRESENT. This is special event for our Kolo, so please attend.

Young ladies if you are not a member, this would be a GREAT TIME to join us and help us grow, to support our church and our community worthy causes.

October is around the corner and our St George Serbian festival.

Please do not wait to be invited to help! STEP UP and volunteer to do your fair share.

With approaching 2014, we will be scheduling elections for Kolo. So if you are interested to take a position and be active, please let me know and I will start making a roster for elections.

I would love to thank all the families who have supported and cooked Sunday luncheons. It is wonderful and joyful to see different ladies showing off their culinary talents. We still have some Sundays to be covered until the end of year. So please do your part, if you have not done so.

Snezana Pantovic on vacation this summer in Srbija, Manastir Koporin in velika Plana with her husband Dole and her grandchildren Samy and Ariana (see more pictures on page 27).

St George Choir In addition to the Choir’s regular duties of singing during the Liturgy every Sunday and on the big holidays, our Choir participated in the following events: • The funeral of Ruja Vasich, the wife of our Choir member Branko Vasich.

Branko made a generous donation to the Choir in memory of Ruja.

• The wedding of Silvana Rakich and Pace Rommel. The Choir received a generous donation from Silvana.

Our Choir is always looking for new members. Anyone interested, and you don’t have to be a professional singer, should contact our Choir Director Kate Thickstun, me, or any other member of the Choir.

Velimir Jovanovic, Choir President

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 18

With This Sign You Will Triumph St. Nikolai Velimirovic once said, “There is nothing more beautiful than this sign. The sign of suffering and temporal trouble, but also the sign of final victory.” There was a certain man who, surrendering his soul entirely to the devil’s service, became a villainous sorcerer in the ancient city of Antioch. This man, after being paid to see to the destruction of a certain Christian maiden, found out, to the shame of the demons, that they were powerless in the mere shadow of the Cross of Christ. The demons had endeavored countless times to tempt this young woman and failed so continuously, that now they cowered at the very mention of her name. When the sorcerer saw that the devil, who he considered to be all powerful, had cringed and was utterly beaten by this Symbol, he realized that there is One more powerful than even the devil. As a result, the sorcerer was transformed and renounced the devil entirely. The devil, becoming enraged, began attacking the man and would have killed him had he not remembered the power of the Cross and signed himself in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. As soon as he did so, the devil hastily retreated and the man continued to call on Christ as the devil stood afar off cursing him vehemently. This sorcerer-turned-Christian went on to become a saint named St. Cyprian, along with the maiden St. Justina who was the victim of his tortures when a former sorcerer.

The Cross is so important to us as Christians because it symbolizes Christ’s ultimate sacrifice to save the entire world from sin and evil. Ever since Christ’s glorious Resurrection, the Cross has been the symbol for all Christians that represents what Christ did for us. It helps us to conquer and to triumph over evil, as did the Emperor Constantine at the Battle of Milvian Bridge. One thing is certain. Even among the most terrible of times, the Cross has always conquered.

For instance, in Russia when atheism ruled under the Communist regime, the Church was persecuted and many of the faithful perished. After almost eighty

years of horrible oppression, the Cross triumphed over those against Christ and his Church and as a result, Russia is experiencing a renewal of faith. As Constantine fought his battle under the inspiration of the Cross, so we continue to this day, fighting the world and the darkness and evil of this world. We have need of these great saints, such as Emperor Constantine, to help us understand what it means to live a life in Christ.

The Cross is the symbol of life, not death, because Christ died on the Cross, He rose from the dead on the third day.

Matthew 16:3 says, “Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times.” Unfortunately, in today’s culture, we are bombarded by ungodly images and messages every day. For example, there is a certain billboard advertising Pepsi that says “Live For Now.” It is a summation of how modern people think today. What exactly is the problem with this philosophy? The problem is that in our modern day and age, many people believe that life in this world is the only life. Therefore, everything imaginable must be done to make that life as enjoyable as possible, no matter what the cost!

Life, as people know it today, means consumerism, self-gratification and the rejection of God both in the public arena and in private. How do we as Christians understand life? We understand it to mean that when we receive the gift of life, we are to use it to the best of our abilities, in everything that God has taught us, and to live as best we can according to His commandments. When at a crossroads between our will and God’s Will, we have to choose the right path no matter what the consequences to our feelings or desires. We, as Christians, understand that life here on earth is temporary and therefore, we don't live for this world. We live for eternity!

Why does the Cross symbolize freedom?

At the beginning of time, when God created man, He gave us all the freedom and free will to decide what we were going to do with our lives: whether or not we were going to follow Him. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.”

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 19

(Galatians 5:1) As this Bible verse explains to us, we need to use that freedom to do what is truly needed with our lives.

When Christ died and rose from the dead, he broke the chains of Hades and released us from the bondage of sin. As a result, granting us the opportunity to one day, God willing, ascend to Heaven to be with Him in Paradise.

What does all this mean to me as a young teenager today? It means that I need to take up my Cross, and resist the temptations of our time. Young adults can easily succumb to the secular humanist agenda taught in our schools, attacking the sanctity of life and marriage and the obvious attempt to remove God from our society.

Teenagers who succumb to negative peer pressure feel that they have to do whatever is required to “fit in” with everybody else, even if that means jeopardizing their faith. We, as young Orthodox Christians, must stay strong and be steadfast in the faith, not giving in to the countless temptations of our time.

We must live a Christ centered worldview and not one built on earthly cares.

1 Corinthians 15:56 says, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” As St. Constantine so righteously demonstrated his obedience to the command of God, so must we likewise strive to do the same.

For if we have that faith, even amongst the most terrible persecutions or trials, the Name of Jesus Christ and the Most Venerable Cross will be our strength, hope and salvation.

Oksana Germain. The essay won second place in the St. Nikolai Velemirovic Oratorical Festival and a Folk Fest Program at the Diocese weekend.

MORAVA! Dear Friends and Supporters,

Morava is off with a bang in its 2013-2014 season! A first for Morava was performing at a wedding at the end of August. The Serbian bride wanted to show the mostly American audience a little bit of her cultural heritage. A reminder that Morava is able to provide entertainment for not only Serbian functions but for any civic or community groups in the American community you may be involved in.

Morava also continues to help whenever possible in setting up the hall for church functions and filling in when help is needed.

France and Serbia are on the calendar at the end of the season June 2014, God willing and funds allowing! Going to France is a direct result of the relationship established with Mladost Pariz who Morava hosted for Folkfest held this past June. The tentative plan is to tour a bit of Europe with Mladost Pariz and another group or two ending in Cacak and doing something with Abrasevic Kolo Ensemble. Everything is still in the planning stages but exciting nevertheless!

If you missed the Folkfest Concert at the Garfield Theater in La Jolla, you missed something special! Over 150 dancers from France, Canada and the U.S. gave beautiful and exciting performances.

Morava did the St. George community proud and the female vocal ensemble performed a new song that brought tears

to many people. A special shout out to Dusko Trajkovic, accordion extraordinnaire, who is always willing to volunteer his musical talents and accompany Morava vocals! It seems like people really liked the location of the new venue in La Jolla. Comments such as "best show ever" were heard throughout the day. Tina Zivkovic took on all church hall duties allowing me to focus on the concert. As with her typical style, all was handled smoothly, efficiently and with a

TABLIC TOURNAMENT! $25 buy-in – 50/50 split Przene Girice (fried smelts) Friday, January 31, 2014 - 7:30pm How to sign up for the Tablic Tournament?

Contact Cristina.Dukovich@gmail.com

smile—thanks so much Tina! I hesitate to start naming names because there are many who stepped up without whom this could not have happened. To all the parents and volunteers who worked so hard, hosted French dancers in their homes, and donated their time and money, thank you. A memorable time was had by all— I think especially the dancers! Anyone who witnessed the a cappella singing that went on outside under the tent knows that this is the right path through which our rich and beautiful Serbian culture will be perpetuated in the diaspora.

Morava is growing! New dancers are always welcome. If you are around 16 and have an ability to move your feet, consider joining this fun and enthusiastic group. Lifelong friendships are made and a lot of calories are burned! Morava is especially on the lookout for young men to join. The girls are outnumbering the boys almost 2 to 1.

If you or anyone you know may be interested in joining the Morava family, please contact me.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 20

I am very excited to announce that Lazar (Laki) Ruzicic, instructor from Talija Beograd, is teaching Morava Seniors from September to February. Under his instruction, Morava will learn two new choreographies, Hercegovina and a new Vlaske. If you see him around, say hello.

Maybe next season we can get him to stay longer!

Morava Folklore was established in 1987. Self-funded, this small endeavor has seen hundreds of young people come through its doors. Morava's mission is to perpetuate Serbian culture through song and dance in North America. It provides young people with skills that go beyond learning dance steps. It encourages teamwork, builds confidence, demands accountability, provides discipline, fitness, community outreach and broader knowledge about Serbian culture.

Morava helps develop good citizens who are respectful, responsible, civic-minded and compassionate.

As an auxiliary organization of St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, Morava is a non-profit organization.

Your financial contributions are necessary to continue to develop the foundation of Morava Folklore and to support the many needs that are required. Please consider making a goodwill donation.

Any donation you make to “St. George Morava” is greatly appreciated and is tax deductible as allowed by law.

Wishing you all a happy fall season!

Ziveli I Mnoga Ja Ljeta!

Dobrila Undheim Director, Morava Seniors Dobrila@cox.net

Find us on Facebook!

MORAVA FOLKLORE ENSEMBLE 2013 – 2014 CALENDAR (Season runs from August 15, 2013 through June 15, 2014 ) Rehearsals on Thursdays from 7 – 9pm Calendar subject to change Th Sa Th/Su Su Sa/Su Sa Th Th/F Sa Su Th F Su 2014 F Sa Sa/Su Th Su Sa Sa F/Sa/S W

August 15 August 24 September 12 - 15 September 22 September 28-29 October 12 October 17 October 17/18 – 20 November 16 November 24 November 28 December 6 December 22 2014 January 31 February 15 February 22/23 April 17 May 4 May 10 May 17 June 13 - 15 June 25-July 9???

Mtg & Practice SEASON BEGINS Wedding Performance Boston Kolo Slava Viking Festival – Nordic Ice Fundraiser Serb Fest – Performances and wine tasting booth No Practice Opolo Cevap Challenge Performance Practice No Practice Morava Christmas Party Practice 2014 Fried Smelts and Tablic Tournament Fundraiser Kalamegdan Kolofest Nations of SD No Practice – Holy Week – (Easter 4.20.14) St. George Slava Slovak Heritage Festival Bacon and Wine Tasting Fundraiser th 27 Annual Summer Folkfest France/Serbia SEASON ENDS VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 21

7 – 9 pm 8pm Noon Sat/Sun All Day

St. G La Jolla, Scripps St. Sava Boston St. G Norway Hall St. G

8pm 3 – 5pm

Paso Robles St. G Norway Hall

7pm 3 – 5pm

Dobrila’s house Norway Hall

7:30 – 11pm

St. G St. Sava, San Gabriel Coronado

Noon 5pm 7 – 11pm Sat 4pm

St. G La Mesa ST. G Garfield Theater?

• Jovanovic, Misha and Marsha

• Pantich, Tom and Helen

Stewardship List—Adults, September 2013

• Jovanovic, Ratko and Koka

• Pantovic, Nada

• Jovanovic, Slavica

• Pantovic, Snezana and Dole

• Alemany, Lazar, Linda and Family

• Jovanovic, Toma and Vesna

• Papac, Wayne and Sandie

• Amanovic, Diana

• Jovanovic, Velimir and Mira

• Petakovich, Deyan and Natasa

• Andolsek, Tonska+

• Jovanovic, Verica

• Aud, Matthew, Laurie and Famil

• Kasic, Rade and Radmila

• Petakovich, Proto Velimir and Protinica Ljubinka

• Basic, Stevo and Stana

• Kinach, Alex and Seka

• Begovich, Michael and Samantha

• Klacar, Neven

• Belcevich, Milos

• Kostic, Tordis

• Borojevich, Mildred and Wally

• Kovacevic, Biljana

• Bradic, Aleksandar and Jelena

• Krsic, Proto Bratso and Protinica Lisa

• Brucker, Mitch and Lidija

• Kukich, Branislav

• Caric, Brigitte and Family

• Kunac, Maria and Dusan

• Connor, Evelyn

• Lazovic, Alexander and Carole

• Copic, Miro, Laura and Family

• Lukic, James-Ljuban and Petka

• Cronemeyer, Jamie and Zorica

• Lukic, Milos

• Denton, Natalie

• Masic, Milenko

• Dimich, Marlene

• Markley, Scott and Nada

• Ducich, Nick and Tia

• Marin, Mike, Tina and Family

• Drakulich, Persida

• McCarthy, Svetlana

• Draskovic, Proto Bozidar and Protinica Bozana

• McKienzie, Sally-Ann

• Elez, Sladjana

• Melnick, Stanley and Pauline

• Freeman, Lillian

• Mihailovic, Gordon

• Fulton, Jeff and Radmila

• Mikler, Zora

• Germain, Deacon Paul, Natalija and Family

• Milanovich, Jennifer

• Gavrilov, Gleb • Glusac, Milena • Gregovich, Ljubica • Grijakovic, Vladimir • Hjembo, Karl and Alyssa • Ilic, Boris • Ilic, Petar and Rosa • Irick, Olga • Ivanovic, Mirko and Sylvia • Janich, Marcia • Jaich, Dennis, Rhonda and Family • Jojic, Dobrinka • Jojic, Julijana and Vesko • Jorling, Joe and Nina • Jovanovic, Marko and Dijana

• Medigovich, Samuel

• Milasinovich, Zeljko and Marija • Milicevic, James and Melanie • Milicevic, Nikola and Nada • Miljkovic, Milan and Diane • Miljkovic, Vecki and Miodrag and family • Milovancev, Miroslav, Mira and Family • Mitrovich, Desanka • Mitrovich, Jelena • Mitrovich, Predrag and Family • Mitrovich, Risto and Linda • Mrja, Millie • Naughton, Pamela • Nedel, Ned and Naden • Nedic, Sava and Spomenka • Nikolic, Dragan and Gordana • Orlich, Petar

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 22

• Petric, Alex, Shari and Aci • Petric, Milovan and Jelena • Petrovic, Djordje • Plavsic, Milan and Ljubica • Plavsic, Mara-Seja • Plavsic, D. Dee • Popa, Cornelia • Popovic, Darko and Family • Popovich, Dolly • Popovich, Vojkan and Nada • Potkonjak, Michael, Sheila and Joseph • Pugh, Zachary and Milica • Purlia, Sam and Gloria • Raicevic, Vladimir, Silvana and Family • Rakic, Marko, Vera and Family • Radojevic, Slobodan and Dr. Vesna • Radojevic, Protinica Nadezda • Radomirovic, Vladimir • Radovanovic, Dragoslav and Ljiljana • Raicevic, Vladimir, Silvana and Family • Rhoads, Howard and Lydia • Ruzic, Stevan and Marija • Saathoff, Ron and Stephanie • Savchuk, Nikolaj and Olga and Family • Schrandt, Jeff and Natalia (Valenti) • Sedy-Miletic, John and Ana and Family • Selezan, Nemanja • Serdar, Sophie • Skaljac, George and Bernadette • Smith, Justin, Zorana and Family • Starr, Tatyana • Stojadinovic, Djordje and Julijana • Stoyanoff, Jordan and Beatriz • Thickstun, Kathryn • Topalovic, Vojkan, Maja and Family • Trifunovic, Alexandra

• Trifunovic, Dr. Robert, Simona and Family • Trifunovic, Vladan and Milica and Family • Tully, George • Undheim, Robert and Dobrila • Urosevic, Branislav and Elaine • Vasich, Branko and Ruja • Vasic, Milica • Vlasovich, Milanka • Vladic, Milan • Vucelic, Inge • Vukotich, Dorothy • Vukotich, May and Stefan • Vukotich, John and Jean • Vuksanovic, Dusan • Yancey, Peter • Zivkovic, Miodrag and Sarah • Zivkovic, Tina and Jovan

Stewardship List—Children • Krsic, Anastasija

Stewardship at St. George Parish is our common endeavor It’s almost time for Stewardship Sunday again—this year November 24. Be watching for details in the mail and online. As I mentioned last year, Stewardship donations in recent years have only covered about half of our roughly $130,000 annual operating budget. A portion of the remainder comes from revenue from several events that the church holds, which is why it is so important for you to volunteer your time and help out at those events. Every time you volunteer to be chairperson for an event, sell tickets, work the bar, work the kitchen, serve, set up, clean up, and promote those events, you are being an active steward and are contributing greatly to your Church, your second home.

Likewise, every time you volunteer to cook for a Sunday fellowship luncheon after Church, you are contributing and helping to keep St. George an active community.

• Krsic, Luka

There are many ways to help out, so if you have any questions about how best to contribute your time, talents, and treasures, please talk to me or Father Bratso, or any member of the Church Board.

Sincerely, Toma Jovanovic, Stewardship Chairman

• Krsic, Nikolaj • Leff, Dylan

Additional 2013 Graduates

If we have overlooked or misspelled anyone’s name, please, inform our church office (619-276-5827), and we will immediately make the necessary corrections. Thank you!

• Tijana Hayden – College • Dylon Jorling – College • High school: Aleksandar Sedlic

FOCUS Ministry FOCUS is an acronym for Fellowship of Orthodox Christians United to Serve.

FOCUS San Diego is a local chapter of FOCUS North America, a non-profit 501c3 domestic charitable provider organization headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. FOCUS North America is the only national Pan-Orthodox Christian agency working operationally on pervasive and persistent issues of poverty in our communities in conjunction with the Orthodox Church in North America.

FOCUS San Diego is an outreach of the Orthodox Christian churches in San Diego.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 23

Inspired by the Orthodox Christian tradition of championship of the poor and oppressed, FOCUS San Diego’s mission is to the under-served homeless and working poor with food, occupation help & counseling, clothing, emergency assistance (of various kinds), and help with housing (by way of referral to other providers). We will serve in conjunction with other providers, faith-based and secular.

St George serves every third Wednesday of the month the homeless and needy at God’s Helping Hand Mission. Contact Mira Jovanovic or Father Bratso for more information.

On the Other Side A calm and gentle soul left our midst July 25, 2013. Ruja Vasic quietly ended her valent year-and-a-half struggle with leukemia and crossed to the other side where she now rests in the arms of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

For me, St. Nikolas day will never pass without remembering this remarkable woman and her family.

Of course, we will never know for certain the cause of her leukemia, but people in all the countries bombed by the USA with depleted uranium, now 20 or more years ago in some cases, are experiencing side effects of radiation exposure: cancer, leukemia, and birth defects.

Even the American military is seeing increased cases from those members who had been handling this lethal munition.

I remember the first time I saw Ruja. It was at her wedding to the debonair and long-time bachelor, Branko Vasic. We all were surprised and happy that Branko had finally found a help-meet and soul mate such as Ruja. It was time.

This terrible possibility is troubling, very troubling. To protect innocent people, we must do all we can for peace and stand firmly against bombing as a foreign policy option! If exposure to depleted uranium was responsible for Ruja’s illness, it is an abomination and an indelible shame on our country.

Ruja was the classic Serbian wife. She kept an immaculate home, was a wonderful cook, and, of course, she was a loving and attentive mother to her two children—the talented Vaso and the delightful Vesna.

My family and I were honored to always be invited to Ruja and Branko’s slava on St. Nikolas day. Not being fully connected to the “slava circuit,” their slava was one of the few we regularly attended. And because it was always a fasting slava, we looked forward to what “magic” Ruja would work to make a delicious lenten meal.

answered simply: she was over there during the war.

The evening of her memorial service at St. George I met some of the relatives who had come from Wisconsin to honor Ruja and support the grieving family. I mentioned to one of them my curiosity as to why Ruja could be stricken with leukemia, a disease usually associated with radiation exposure. The relative

Memory Eternal, dear Ruja! We will not forget you, but we know you are in a better place.

Marsha Jovanovic, Editor

Military intervention will create more victims to be "sacrificed on the altar of an imaginary democracy".

As a Western military intervention against the regime of Bashar al-Assad appears increasingly likely, the Russian Orthodox Church expresses “strong concern” about possible developments of the crisis, this following US charges that the regime used chemical weapons against civilians.

Christians are at risk of becoming hostages to the situation and the main victims of radical extremist forces, who, with the help of the United States, will come to power, he believes.

“Once again, as was the case in Iraq, the United States is acting as an international executioner,” said Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, head of the Department for External Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate.The representative of the Russian Orthodox Church strongly criticized the US position, which he says is “completely one-sided.”

Pray for Peace!

“The international community must do everything to avoid that events develop in this direction.”

“Without the endorsement of the United Nations, they want to decide the fate of a whole country of millions of inhabitants.”

Once again, Hilarion warned, “thousands of lives will be sacrificed on the altar of an imaginary democracy;” among them, according to the Metropolitan, are numbers of Christians, about whose fate no one seems to care.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 24

General Draza’s role in WW II and how the Allies betrayed him It was back in 1986 that the article titled, “State shuns heroic ally—new proof of Draza’s role” reached my hands. I tried to read and understand it; and even though my English was limited at the time, I was able to get the main message of the article: General Dragoljub Mihailovich was the victim of active subversion by communist agents in the allies’ intelligence agencies.

In the article, well-known political analyst Milt Copulos reported that after the American government released previously classified documents from the top secret World War II Office of Strategic Services, new light had been cast on the conduct of James Klugman, a highly placed communist agent in British intelligence and a close associate of master spy, Kim Philby. No surprise there. The Serbs knew someone had betrayed the General; but communist demagogic policies and tight media control prevented any publishing of this information.1 I was in Krajina then, and little did I know one day I would be in America serving God in our beloved Serbian Orthodox Church and that this subject would come up again.

During those times, just having a picture of Draza Mihailovich and an article written in another language, if found by authorities, could mean jail time or sentencing to a youth probation court. God saved me from those experiences, which unfortunately many Serbs suffered at communist hands.

That copy of the article traveled with me from Krajina to Belgrade, and from there to Chicago, where I continued my theological training. And over the years, as my English vocabulary grew, I was able to comprehend more from the article.

On hearing of the initial German attack, Col. Mihailovich gathered what forces he could, along with a few pieces of artillery and a few tanks, and let his ragged force to a mountain redoubt. To his surprise, first hundreds, then thousands, and tens of thousands of former soldiers, peasants, and others who wanted to resist the Nazi invaders joined the trek to the mountains. They brought whatever weapons and supplies they could – often World War I rifles and a little goat cheese. But it didn’t matter; all they wanted was to fight the Germans.

Now in 2013, a beloved parishioner introduced me to a book that amplifies the points Copulos made about the Allies’ betrayal of General Draza. The book is only published in the Serbian language, and I have read only some of its chapters, which were given to me as loose copies. The limited number of copies of this book were immediately sold, and now it is really hard to find. The title of the book is Steljanje Istorije, or in English, The Execution of History, and it is forbidden in the USA. The content of the book is a compilation of handwritten records and notes of a study by Robert Harbold McDowell. He was a university professor and historian who during the WW II served as an analyst and intelligence officer for the Office of Strategic Services (known as OSS, the precursor to today’s CIA). McDowell spent several months with General Draza and his troops in the fall of 1944. He saw and in his reports recorded the betrayal of Draza’s forces by the Allies. Upon his return from the mission in Serbia, McDowell was replaced as chief of the department for southeast Europe. From then on, the Allies actively and openly supported Tito and his troops (partisans), leaving General Draza and his troops fighting the Nazis with limited ammunition and the necessary supplies.

Before his death, McDowell’s study notes were given to Michael– Blagoje Radenkovic through whose efforts the book Streljanje Istorije has been published.

1.How I came to get a copy of this article that was published in The Washington Times, I will save for another article all together.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • SPRING 2013 25

It took more than 40 years for the truth about the betrayal of General Draza by the Allies to see the light. I wonder if it will take that long for all the records about the NATO bombing of Serbia (March 24, 1999 to June 10, 1999) to come out. The true Ally to America was betrayed during WW II and once again in March of 1999.

In Libertyville, Illinois, not far from the Saint Sava monastery, lived a former airman gunned down by the Nazis but saved by General Draza’s troops during Continued onVeteran page 26.would come to the WW II. This

Continued from page 25.

monastery and share his story how the Chetniks would cunningly hide him and his friends from the Nazis and eventually lead them to the Allies safe and unharmed. Similar stories are told in the book The Forgotten 500 by Gregory A. Freeman.

This short article in no way does justice to rectifying the dearth of information and recognition of freedom’s allies, General Draza Mihailovich and his troops.

Rather it is a small attempt to clarify some ambiguities that perhaps have arisen as a result of the previous articles and stories published in the Voice. It represents a retrospect to the historical truth that for a long time was kept top secret.

It is finally making it to “daylight,” offering a new appreciation for freedom and the price paid to ensure that freedom.

Many lives have been lost, not in vain, but so that we may learn that justice, freedom, and sacrifice are pursuits of great people whom we are called to emulate with our actions and deeds. General Draza Mihailovich was one of those great people.

Fr. Bratso Krsic

Monks in Egypt’s Sinai Hope to Protect Ancient Library Just as they have done for 17 centuries, the Greek Orthodox monks of St. Catherine’s Monastery in Egypt’s Sinai desert (see photo on page 2). and the local Jabaliya Bedouins worked together to protect the monastery when the 2011 revolution thrust Egypt into a period of uncertainty. “There was a period in the early days of the Arab Spring when we had no idea what was going to happen,” says Father Justin, a monk who has lived at St. Catherine’s since 1996. Afraid they could be attacked by Islamic extremists or bandits in the relatively lawless expanse of desert, the 25 monks put the monastery’s most valuable manuscripts in the building’s storage room. Their

Bedouin friends, who live at the base of St. Catherine’s in a town of the same name, allegedly took up their weapons and guarded the perimeter.

script, including essential texts that document the early church. St. Catherine’s ranks high among the world’s preeminent Christian text collections.

The community’s fears of an attack were not realized, but the monks decided they needed a new way to protect their treasured library from any future threats. Last year, they accelerated a program of digitally copying biblical scripts with the help of multispectral imaging specialists from around the world, while simultaneously renovating and modernizing the library itself. The Sinai library houses 1.8 million pages of

Security concerns are once again at the forefront after the July 3 military ouster of former President Mohamed Morsi and the violence that came in the wake of the change in the country’s leadership. Two days after Morsi’s ouster, the Egyptian army declared a state of emergency in Sinai after Islamist gunmen opened fire on the region’s el-Arish airport and several military checkpoints.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 26

Going to Serbia: St George parishioners visiting family and sightseeing Elizabeth & Rade Kasic in Belgrade & Dalmatia

Snezana & Dole Pantovic in Srbija for month of July

Visited Studenica, Manastir Jovanje, Manastir Nikolje in Ovcar Banja I Manastir Koporin in Velika Plana, and other places with their grandchildren Samy and Ariana. Snezana was born in the house shown above.

Baptism of Milan Josef Sedy in Paracin At the Crkva Sv. Trojica in Paracin, Serbia, on October 4, 2012. His Kuma is Stanojka Ilic, Ana Miletic Sedyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aunt.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2013 27

Nikola Tesla focus of Personal Campaign for Misha Jovanovic "Tesla is greater than Edison," says tour operator Misha Jovanovic, when referring to the scientific genius Nikola Tesla.

"Tesla's accomplishments are often eclipsed by the more publicity savvy and less accomplished American—Thomas Edison of light bulb fame," he adds. A native of the former Yugoslavia (and a Serb from Serbia), Jovanovic was shocked by how many Americans know absolutely nothing about Tesla, a Serb born in the old Austro-Hungarian empire (now part of Croatia) in 1856, and who emigrated to the US in 1884.

But Tesla is slowly coming into his own in the US as more and more American high school and university students discover Tesla is responsible for countless scientific discoveries, including the principle of AC electricity (Edison supported DC electricity), radio waves, wireless communications, x-rays, and energy transmission, all of which form the foundation of our modern-day lives. Jovanovic, who has operated Misha Tours in San Diego for 28 years, takes every opportunity to share this information, especially when he is sporting his "Tesla > Edison" t-shirt.

Jovanovic was especially inspired after the recent purchase of Tesla's last remaining laboratory, Wardenclyffe, in Shoreham, NY. The 15.69-acre site is where Tesla started to build his wireless communications and energy transmission tower in the early 1900s. He was never able to complete it due to lack of funds. Now, thanks to the internet, Friends of Science East, Inc., dba Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe, partnered with online comic Matthew Inman (TheOatmeal.com) to hold an online funding campaign on Indiegogo.com.

They amazingly raised $1.37 million towards saving the site. More than 33,000 people from 108 countries contributed to the success of the campaign, which reached the $1 million mark in just over a week.

“This is a major milestone in our almost twodecade effort to save this historically and scientifically significant site,” said Gene Genova, Vice President of the organization (see scale model at the right). “We are very excited to be able to finally set foot on the grounds where Tesla walked and worked.” However, the real work lies ahead because the organization estimates it needs $10 million to create a science learning center and museum worthy of Tesla and his legacy. Notwithstanding, the organization is moving ahead as it currently directs the cleanup and restoration of the lab's grounds and plans future fundraising events to help complete the center.

The Nikola Tesla Museum in Belgrade, Serbia, which holds most of Tesla's thousands of papers and books as well as memorabilia, is collaborating with the New York Hall of Science in presenting a new exhibition, "Tesla’s Wonderful World of Electricity." The exhibition opens on July 10, 2013—a date celebrated around the world as Nikola Tesla Day—and will run through October 20.

Jovanovic, himself, envisions developing a "Tesla Trail" tour that will include several landmarks where the scientist and visionary worked and lived, including the Wardenclyffe site, Niagara Falls, Colorado Springs, and New York and the New Yorker Hotel, where he spent his last days penniless and alone.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE • AUTUMN 2013 28

Anyone who believes in science education and in recognizing Tesla for his many contributions to society can get more information on the website (www.TeslaScienceCenter.org), at the Facebook page (Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe), and via Twitter (@teslascience). Or you can just ask Misha Jovanovic (misha@mishatours.com).

Marsha Jovanovic, in NTA Courier Magazine, August 2013.

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In the Green: St George Recycling

Program

In an effort to gain much needed revenue and to help the environment, we are actively recycling at St. George.

Did you know that every time you throw a water bottle, aluminum can, or glass beer bottle into the garbage instead of recycling it, you are throwing money away?

Each can or bottle that is not recycled equals five cents gone forever. While five cents may not seem like much, every can and bottle quickly adds up.

Please remember to put all plastic and glass bottles and aluminum cans into the blue recycling containers that are located both inside the hall as well as outside.

In 2012, over 17.2 billion containers were recycled in California, saving natural resources, conserving energy, extending the life of our landfills, and helping to reduce emissions of harmful greenhouse gases.

Let us be good stewards of the beautiful Earth we have been given!

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Tesla's Wonders Go on Show in New York

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An exhibition of the inventions of Nikola Tesla, including details of his life, opened on July 10 at the New York Hall of Science in Queens. The exhibition is organized in cooperation with the Belgrade Museum of Nikola Tesla and the Serbian Consulate in New York.

All stewards receive one free ad when placing in four consecutive issues.

Send your copy or information to the Voice Editor at marsha@marshaj.com or contact Father Bratso.

Voice of St George Winter Issue Please submit all articles & reports, events, news, photos, announcements, ads, etc., ON or BEFORE DEC 1

Tesla was born in Smiljan in what is now Croatia on July 10, 1856, the son of a Serbian Orthodox priest. After completing his education, he moved to New York in 1884, where he worked at a company owned by Thomas Edison, the American inventor and businessman.

In 1891, he introduced to the world the wireless energy transmission known as the Tesla Effect, as well as the Tesla Coil, an electrical resonant transformer circuit used to produce high-voltage, low-current, high-frequency alternating-current electricity. Later he experimented with X-rays, remote radio control, and a steam-powered mechanical oscillator known as Tesla's oscillator. In all, Tesla held nearly 300 patents in 26 countries, many of which are basic to modern technology.

Teslaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wonderful World of Electricity presents working models of his inventions, models of his laboratories and plants, photographic reproductions, and a narrative about Teslaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life and work. The exhibition continues through October 20.

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2013 29

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"Studenti" - Belgrade, June 1968 (can you find Misha?)

619-588-5811 619-588-4644 misha@mishatours.com

VOICE OF ST. GEORGE â&#x20AC;˘ SPRING 2013 31