METROPOLIA ISSUES DIRECTIVE ON WEDDINGS, DIVORCES, BAPTISMS, FUNERALS AND MEMORIALS

Glory to God! Doxa si Kyrie!

The following is a Directive from the Metropolia and carries with it the same force as any Particular Canon or Statute of the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church. Therefore, it is binding upon all faithful of the Church.

On Matrimony:

For the union of a man and woman to be canonical and sacramentally valid by the Eastern Orthodox Church, the following conditions must be met:

1. An Orthodox priest resident in a canonical jurisdiction must witness the Sacrament (Mystery) of Matrimony. It must be performed in a parish church, unless otherwise approved by the local Bishop, and with the authorization of the diocesan or local Bishop.

2. The priest, before approving the marriage, must request permission from the local Bishop, and verify that:

1. Neither of the parties in question are already married to another person, regardless of country.
2. The parties in question are not related to each other to a degree that would constitute an impediment.
3. If either or both of the parties are widowed, a death certificate must be made available to the parish priest.
4. If either or both parties were previously married in the Orthodox Church, they must prove that ecclesiastical and civil divorces have been granted.
5. That proof of both parties being members of an Orthodox parish for at least the current year must be provided to the parish priest, if taking place outside of one's own parish church.
6. A civil marriage license must be obtained from the appropriate agency of the State where the marriage shall be performed and presented to the parish priest in advance.

3. No person may marry more than three (3) times within the Orthodox Catholic Church, and permission from the Metropolia must be obtained for a third marriage and only with extreme oikonomia (economia).

4. In cases involving Orthodox and non-Orthodox persons wishing to marry, the latter must have been validly baptized by water and in the Name of the father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. The Church cannot solemnize a marriage of an Orthodox Christian to a non-Christian. The couple must agree to baptize their children in the Orthodox Catholic Church and raise and nurture them in accordance with the Orthodox Faith.

5. Those asked to be sponsors (koumbaros or koumbara) must prove that they are members in good standing with their local parish of the Orthodox Church. If a person belongs to a parish that is not recognized by the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church or not in communion with it, or if divorced and remarried has not received the blessing of the Church or received an ecclesiastical divorce from the first marriage, they cannot be a sponsor. Non-Orthodox persons may be members of the wedding party, but may not exchange the rings or crowns.

6. Marriages are not performed on Feasts of the Church or during Fasting Seasons; e.g., Great Lent and Holy Week, Dormition Fast; Beheading of St John the Baptist, Exaltation of the Holy Cross, and the Nativity Fast. Nor may they be performed on the day before or day of a Great Feast of Our Lord, including Theophany, Pascha, Pentecost, and Christmas. Marriages may be performed on these days for just cause and only with permission of the local Bishop.

7. A baptized Orthodox Christian whose weeding is not blessed by an Orthodox priest is no longer in good standing with the Church, and may not receive the Holy Sacraments (Mysteries), or become a sponsor for anyone at any of the Holy Mysteries. One must be received back into the Church's life in order to be free to do so again. In addition, such persons may not vote or serve on a Parish Council, or be buried from the Church.

8. Prohibited marriages include:

1. Parents with their own children, grandchildren or great grandchildren, or godchildren of same godparents..
2. Brothers and sisters or brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
3. Uncles and aunts with nieces and nephews, or first cousins with each other.
4. Foster parents with foster children or foster children with the children of foster parents.
5. Godparents with godchildren or godparents with the parents of their godchildren.

On Divorce:

The parish priest must exert every effort to reconcile any conflict with a married couple who feel they wish to obtain a divorce. However, should reconciliation be out-of-the-question, after a civil divorce has been obtained, he will submit the petition of the party seeking the ecclesiastical divorce, together with the civil decree of divorce, to the Spiritual Court of First Instance of the Diocese. All required forms and information must be submitted with each petition.

On Baptisms:

A person wishing to sponsor a child or an adult for Baptism or Chrismation must be an Orthodox Christian in good standing with his or her local parish church, and must prove such standing. Baptisms may not be performed on Christmas Day through the Feast of the Theophany, during Holy Week, or on any of the Great Feasts of the Lord.

Funerals:

Funeral services are permitted on any day of the year, except for Sundays and Holy Friday, unless the local Bishop grants permission for just cause.

Memorials:

Memorial services may not be chanted from the Saturday of Lazarus through the Sunday of Thomas, on any Feast of the Lord, or any Feast of the Theotokos.

Fasting and Abstinence:

During periods of fasting only one full meal may be eaten with two smaller meals each day of the fast. On days of abstinence one will refrain from eating certain foods which are, in order of frequency of prohibition, meat (including poultry), dairy products, fish, olive oil and wine. Fruits, vegetables, grains and shellfish are permitted throughout the year and are not included in abstinence. Fast and Abstinence should never be reduced to a legalistic observance or dietary plan, but to show our love for God. Fasting and Abstinence without good works and prayer is only an action of pride. Days of Fast (F), Days of Abstinence (A), or Abstinence and Fast ( B):

1. (A) All Wednesdays and Fridays, except those noted below.
2. (B) Eve of the Theophany.
3. (A) Cheesefare Week.
4. (B) Great Lent (Clean Monday through Great and Holy Saturday.
5. (B) Great and Holy Week.
6. (B) Holy Apostles Fast.
7. (A) Dormition Fast (Fish, wine and olive oil allowed).
8. (B) Beheading of St John the Baptist.
9. (B) Exaltation of the Holy Cross.
10. (A) Nativity Lent (Fish, wine and olive oil are permitted except on Wednesdays and Fridays).
11. (B) Nativity Eve.

On the following days fish, wine and olive oil are permitted:

1. Feast of the Annunciation.
2. Palm Sunday.
3. Transfiguration.
4. Entry into the Temple of the Mother of God.

On the following days all foods are permitted:

1. First week of the Triodion from Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee to Sunday of the Prodigal Son, including Wednesday and Friday.
2. Bright Week following Sunday of Pascha.
3. Week following Pentecost.
4. Feast of the Nativity of the Lord through January 4^th.

Metropolitan Stephen

(Sinful Servant of God in the Blessed Trinity)

March 27^th, A.D. 2007

FROM THE ARCHDIOCESE ON MEMORIAL SERVICES

The Chancery of the Syro-Russian Archdiocese

Memorial services are an important part of the life of the Church. It is good to recall those whom we have loved and loved us after the have passed on. The Orthodox Catholic Church encourages prayers for those who are deceased. The faithful should know more about such services and what is required. There is a specific food that is made for memorial services that is taken to the church and given to the priest. It is also good to offer a financial donation to the church for this.

BOILED WHEAT (KOLYVA) is offered because man is also a seed and like a fruit from earth. Like a seed he is placed in the earth below but will be raised up and blossom forth again by God's power. So when a memorial service is to be done, the faithful make boiled wheat as a symbol of this life to come.

THIRD DAY service is celebrated for the reason one received his/her being through the Holy Trinity, and having been translated, they hope to be changed back to the ancient beauty in which we were made before the fall, or one greater – at the resurrection.

NINTH DAY service is celebrated that the soul may dwell together with the holy spirits of the angels, since it is immaterial as is their nature. They are ranked according to the nine orders, and in three trinities they proclaim and praise God in the Blessed Trinity.

40^TH DAY service is celebrated in memory of the Savior's Ascension 40 days after His Resurrection and that the reposed one, when resurrected, may be taken up in the clouds to meet the compassionate and loving and just Judge, our Savior and Master, and thus be with Him forever.

3^RD, 6^TH, 9^TH and 12^TH MONTH services are also celebrated to proclaim the Holy Trinity, the God of all and His magnificent glory, and on behalf of the deceased. For by the Trinity one is fashioned, and when he is loosed from the body he returns to God, and by the Trinity he hopes for the resurrection. So we also perform memorials at the end of the first year because we proclaim the Trinity, and the twelve-month year is divided also into trinities. Additionally, the end of the year is celebrated because it is the consummation of that period of time and our God the Trinity is the Life of all and cause of being. God shall be the restoration of all and renewal of human nature.

ANNUAL MEMORIALS are celebrated each year by most Orthodox Christians for departed relatives to demonstrate the soul is immortal and lives and that it shall be restored when the Creator raises up all bodies. The offering of Boiled Wheat (Kolyva) bears witness that, as Christ died according to the flesh and was raised up and lives, thus, we too, as St Paul says, shall be raised up and will live in Him.

1^ST COUNCIL OF CANONICAL AUTOCEPHALOUS ORTHODOX BISHOPS

His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen offered the following words as he announced the date of the First Council. "The Council of Canonical Autocephalous Orthodox Bishops will become a shinning example to all others of how true Orthodox Christians should live together in peace and love for the greater glory of God, and the good continuity of His Holy Church."

Organized and officially blessed as a Pan-Orthodox Organization of the Metropolia on November 15^th, 2006, the Council has officially accepted two jurisdictions provisionally into it. Their hierarchs are Metropolitan Samuel Mark and Bishop Ignatius. Others have not submitted their formal petitions as yet and are still pending. These include Archbishop Anthony of New York, Archbishop Jovan (Pennsylvania), Archbishop Paul (New York), Bishop Michael (Missouri), Bishop Stefan (Ohio), and Bishop Timotheos.

The first meeting of the Council will take place in 2007 from Sunday August 12 ^th-Wednesday August 15^th at St Mary Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota. This meeting will be most important for the structured continuity of the Council, and for the further establishment of requirements and expectations of new petitioners in the future. At this time, it is planned that those who have been admitted will share in a concelebrated Divine Liturgy on the closing day of Council I on Wednesday August 15 ^th, 2007 at 5:00 p.m. at the Cathedral.

FEASTS AND SAINTS OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH

Dates are given first according to Julian Calendar and then Gregorian Calendar.

HOLY PASCHA OF THE LORD – FEAST OF FEASTS

Holy Pascha, Feast of Feasts, the Resurrection of Christ God, is the greatest holy day in the Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church. After His crucifixion for all mankind, He was laid into a tomb after being bound in linen clothes by Nicodemus. Christ's sacrifice became the truest of all sacrifices offered to God the Father in atonement for our sins so the gates of heaven would be reopened to us. Mary Magdalene was the first to approach the tomb after His burial and found that the stone had been taken away and ran to Simon Peter and other disciples to tell of the news. She told the others that Jesus' body had been removed from the tomb and at once they returned to where Jesus had been laid. Upon their return, Mary stood weeping outside the tomb and then appeared two angels in white, and they said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?" She replied, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him." When she turned around and there was Jesus standing. She first thought this was the gardener and then realized it was her Lord. Later, Christ revealed Himself to the apostles in the Divine Glory of the Resurrection. Truly, this man was and is Jesus Christ our Lord God and Savior. The Holy Orthodox Church triumphs, exults and rejoices, and gives thanks for Christ's glorious Resurrection. The sorrow of His death, followed by the joy of His resurrection and our chance to be with Him in heaven.

ST JUSTIN THE MARTYR

St Justin was a convert and martyr for the faith. He was also a Christian apologist who attempted to reconcile faith nad reason. His works defend Christianity as the only true rational belief and contain descriptions of Baptismal ceremonies, the Eucharist, and other rites. St Justin identifies the "Logos" with the God of the Old Testament and speaks of the call to Gentiles to assume the place of Israel in God's plan.

THE SYRO-RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CATHOLIC CHURCH

By His Excellency Bishop Timothy of Duluth

Since May of 1892, it has always been a fact that the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church, then known as American Orthodox Catholic Archdiocese of America, has been an American Church with its original parishes in this country. The change-of-name became a necessity in time because of the following reasons:

1. After the death of His Beatitude Metropolitan Timotheos (I Primate) the Church became subject to several schisms leaving it with some other jurisdictions using our name, but not adhering to Orthodox faith. This was mainly due to some wishing more power than entitled to.
2. The Church felt a responsibility to identify with from where we came from. Because the Orthodox Syrian Church of Antioch granted the Bull of Consecration for Archbishop Timotheos in May of 1892, it was of Syrian Apostolic Succession, but not ethnic identity. Then in 1966, Archbishop John Joseph (IV Primate) was consecrated by Archbishop Konstantin of the Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church in New York, (Moscow Patriarchate) bringing to our Church Apostolic Succession from the Russian Church, but not ethnic identity.
3. The Church spread to many other parts of the world and since it was no longer just "American" many suggested that another more appropriate and more encompassing name be chosen.
4. It was decided originally under His Beatitude Metropolitan Joseph of Blessed Memory (V Primate) that a name should be chosen that reflects where our Apostolic Succession stems from without losing its traditional character. Various suggestions were made and one was used as an interim, but in 1994 Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church was adopted.

The Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church has always allowed English and the vernacular of other countries to be used in the Divine Liturgy and all other services. It has never been an "ethnic Church" recognizing that all the faithful have a right to fully understand the Liturgy in order that they can better live it. Of all the jurisdictions of the Eastern Orthodox Church tat came to the United States from the beginning, we were first to use English. It is a fact that upon the creation of our Archdiocese in America, we were a bi-ritual jurisdiction, i.e., allowing both Eastern (Byzantine) and Western Rites for services of the Church. However, the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church is the true continuation of the Byzantine Rite that the schismatics did away with for the most part turning to Old Catholic ways instead. A couple of Orthodox jurisdictions in the United States, trying to appear more "American" and less ethnic, resented the fact that we were publicizing the fact that we were first to use English in this country. They went so far as to make attacks against our Archbishop and Church.

We hear much about the hardships of other jurisdictions throughout history, and we realize that we are not the only one that has ever experienced hardship and pain. However, it is good to know that many of our Archbishops in history have suffered greatly for the Church, including our current Protohierarch. There is much to be proud of as Christians of the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church. From a Church of only a few thousands in 1892 to one of only about 5,000 in the 1980's, we have grown to over 30,000 as of 2006. We have survived five schisms throughout our early history. We have seen three of our Archbishops maligned and wrongfully defamed but they never gave up faith or responsibilities even in their darkest hours. We have been blessed with our current Metropolitan who has labored in love for all even when his own health, and his life on occasions, was most fragile. We brought American Orthodoxy into existence by allowing our Church to use the vernacular and proving that ethnicity is of the people – not the Church as the Church is for all.

Be one with God in the Blessed Trinity, be one in the faith, be faithful to our traditions and holy canons, and above all be worthy to call yourself one of the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church.

His Excellency Bishop Timothy of Duluth

(A Sinner)

CCAOB TO MEET IN AUGUST 2007

The Council of Canonical Autocephalous Orthodox Bishops will meet together for its 1^st Council from August 12^th – August 15^th, 2007. The Council will convene at St Mary the Theotokos Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Cathedral at 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth Minnesota.

Those who have already been granted provisional membership after submitting petitions are:

• His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen (Syro-Russian);
• His Eminence Archbishop Jovan (Byelorussian Autocephalous Orthodox Church);
• His Eminence Archbishop Samuel Mark (American Orthodox Catholic);
• His Excellency Bishop Ignatius (Christian Orthodox Church);
• His Excellency Bishop John of India (Syro-Russian);
• His Excellency Bishop Timothy (Syro-Russian); and
• His Grace Bishop Simeon (Syro-Russian).

Those pending:

• His Eminence Archbishop Anthony of New York (former Exarchate of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria);
• His Eminence Archbishop Paul (Northeastern Diocese of the Ukrainian Orthodox Catholic Church);
• His Excellency Bishop Stefan (Romanian Orthodox Church in Exile);
• His Excellency Bishop Michael (OCC of North America);
• His Grace Bishop Timotheos (Byelorussian Autocephalous Orthodox Church in Exile);
• Right Reverend Mitred Archimandrite Cyril (Syro-Russian), Bishop-elect;
• Right Reverend Samson of Tanzania, (Syro-Russian) Bishop-elect; and
• Chorbishop Joseph of Belgium (Syro-Russian); and
• Deacon Ephreme of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church represents Bishop Danial, as spectator.

Also included previously was Bishop-elect Steven (SROOC Nigeria), who passed away in January 2007.

2007 COMMISSION CONFERENCE IN AUGUST

[Duluth Minnesota] His Excellency Bishop Timothy of Duluth has announced that the 2007 Commission Conference will take place from 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Friday August 10^th, and the same on Saturday August 11^th, 2007. On Sunday August 12^th the day will begin with Divine Liturgy at 10:30 a.m. and the Conference will officially end at approximately 3:00 p.m. The 2006 Commission Conference voted unanimously to change the date from July to August and the Metropolia approved this amendment. The Commission celebrated its 20 ^th Anniversary this year and all members are urged to make plans to attend the 2007 Conference and start the next twenty years out right.

2007 SYNODAL COUNCIL-BISHOPS' CONSISTORY IN AUGUST

[Duluth Minnesota] The 2007 Synodal Conference and Bishops' Consistory will be held from Friday August 5^th until Sunday August 12^th, 2007. The Bishops will begin meeting at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday August 5^th, 2007 and continue until Sunday August 12^th, 2007, and will be joined by all the clergy on Monday August 6^th, 2007. The Clergy-Laity Congress begins on Wednesday August 8^th, 2007 and ends on Thursday August 9^th, 2007. This is all followed by the Commission Conference that begins that same weekend. The Metropolia has agreed to allow lay advisors attendance at the Council on Thursday only instead of Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this coming year. Those who can be there on more days are urged to do so. All Bishops and clergy of the Church are expected to be in attendance this coming year, along with the newly elected lay advisors.

CHRIST THE PANTOCRATOR SOVEREIGN ORDER OF CHIVALRY

[Metropolia] The Metropolia has officially blessed and commenced plans for the First Induction of members into the Christ the Pantocrator Sovereign Order of Chivalry. The Metropolia announced that the service of admitting new members as Companions, Dames or Knights would take place in August 2007. Those interested in knowing more and/or submitting their petition to be considered may do so by writing to the Chancery Office, 1318 Baxter Avenue, Superior Wisconsin 54880-1762.

MEMBERS WITHOUT A PARISH

The Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church, like other small and smaller Orthodox jurisdictions, realizes that there are members who live far away from the nearest parish to them. In some cases, there exist parishes of other jurisdictions that are in communion with us or in which mutual recognition has been exchanged. In such cases our members may attend these churches until one of ours is opened in their locality. In other cases, there are those living in an area with no parish at all to attend, and for them they may belong to the Pro-Cathedral of St Mary and be on its rolls as a member. Such persons would be allowed to use the Typica Service within their homes on Sunday and Holy Days. Domestic Churches may be established in homes until a parish or mission can be officially established. "Distance Parishioners" would also be allowed to make their 10% tithe to St Mary's uniting them to the parish in good standing. For further information contact Bishop Timothy at  . If you are interested in assisting the Archdiocese to establish a mission parish in your area, please write to the same email address.

MONASTIC RECEPTIONS AND PROFESSION OF VOWS

• Sister Barbara Maude received into the Sisters of the Community of St Basil by His Beatitude Archbishop Stephen, February 20^th, 2007, pending profession of vows in County Mayo Ireland.

APPOINTMENTS & ASSIGNMENTS

• Mr Sam Ahsan, Director of St Cyril Study Centre of Pakistan, and representative of the Metropolia in Pakistan, effective December 29^th, 2006.
• Fr Mitred Archimandrite Cyril named Abbot of Monastic Community of St Basil, effective July 27^th, 2006.
• Father Thomas Dillon elevated to Archpriest by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen on March 18^th, 2007. He is pastor of St Paul the Apostle Parish, Middletown NJ.
• Father Anthony Lubeke received into Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church from Romanian Orthodox Church in Exile by His Beatitude, and assigned to St Brendan's House and St George Hermitage in Cleveland Ohio.
• Dr Melodi Luko named Interim President of the St Mark-Romano Byzantine College Alumni Association, effective January 23^rd, 2007.
• Fr Deacon Anthony F Onyema appointed Interim Vice-Chancellor of the Diocese of Nigeria effective March 27^th, 2007, by His Beatitude.
• Seminarian Maximus Seipke named Vice-Chancellor of the Archdiocese by His Beatitude on January 30^th, 2007.

Advisory Committee Members of the Metropolia:

• Mr Hampton Bumgarner (New Jersey)
• Father Archimandrite Cyril Cranshaw (Rivas Nicaragua)
• Dr Audrey Daniel (South Carolina)
• Dr Sandra Dobiash (Colorado)
• Dr Andrew Gill (Texas)
• Father Deacon Steven Johnson (Minnesota)
• Subdeacon Matthew Largaespada (California)
• Father Stephen Lawrence (California)
• Dr Janet Maus (Maryland)
• Dr Bekki Medsker (South Carolina)
• Dr Peter Smyth (Honorary Member, Ontario Canada)

OFFICIAL FROM METROPOLIA

Issue 1. (03.27.07/1): The Monastic Typicon of the Community of St Basil is hereby declared the official Rule of the Church. All monasteries, convents and monastic houses are to request a copy of the Typicon by May 5^th , 2007. The cost for this is $35.00.

Issue 2. (03.28.07/1): The Metropolia has elected Fr Archimandrite Cyril (Cranshaw) of Nicaragua to the Syro-Russian Synod of Bishops. He will be ordained (consecrated) on Sunday August 12^th, 2007 in Duluth Minnesota. He will serve as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese for Central and South America. If anyone has reason why this should not occur, please advise the Metropolia. Bishops of the Synod are asked to send their recommendation by May 1^st, 2007.

Reprinted. (11.18.06/1): The Divine Liturgy (SROCC) is now completed and can be ordered from the Metropolia ($100.00 including S&H). All clergy are to order their copy by February 1^st, 2007.

Reprinted. (09.23.06/1): Clerics being ordained deacons or priests must now spend the minimum of three (3) days with their ordaining prelate before the date of ordination. This is in order to take canonical examinations, be appropriately prepared, receive counsel, make a good confession, and complete the review process. There are no exceptions.

PAROCHIAL CHARTERS

Established:

• St Basil the Great Seminary, Rivas Nicaragua (12.29.06)
• St Brendan House, Cleveland Ohio (01.24.07)
• St Cyril Orthodox Study Centre, Pakistan (12.29.06)
• St Elizabeth Convent House, London England (01.08.07)
• St George Church, Kanaga DR of the Congo
• St George Hermitage, Cleveland Ohio (01.24.07)
• St Mark Mission Parish, Republic of Cameroon Africa
• St Michael & All Angels Mission Parish, St Cloud Minnesota (08.26.06)
• St Patrick Retreat House, Cleveland Ohio (01.24.07)
• St Patrick & All Saints of Ireland Parish, Castlebar County Mayo (Ireland) (09.24.06)
• St Stephen the Protomartyr Mission Parish, Hemet California (03.27.07)

Dissolved:

• All Saints Mission Parish, Anchorage Alaska (03.27.07)

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

• Reverend Francis Younis, London England, suspended following serious canonical infractions, effective January 24^th, 2007.

PRAY FOR THE SICK AND SUFFERING

• Metropolitan Stephen
• Archbishop Jovan (Pennsylvania)
• Bishop Timothy of Duluth (Minnesota)
• Sister Irene (California)
• Father Cyril Cranshaw (Nicaragua)
• Father Thomas Dillon (New Jersey)
• Mr James Daniel (South Carolina)
• Mrs Karen Wiser (Minnesota)
• Seminarian Maximus Seipke (Minnesota)
• Dr Marge Ebeling DCh (Arizona)
• Father Paul Jensen (Texas)
• Father Patrick Lemming (Tennessee)
• Dr Karla VonEhrenkrook (Arizona)
• Howard & Nancy Youngheim (Indiana)
• All our Armed Forces everywhere, who are suffering, injured or who have lost their lives protecting the freedom of others.
• For all our God-loving Bishops, Priests, Deacons, Seminarians and Sisters, and especially our Most Reverend Archbishop Stephen, that they will have good health and many years.

Note: If you, or someone you know, is sick or suffering, please let us know and you will be added to the OCH Prayer List. Send full name, address and age. Thank you.

REST IN PEACE!

• Bishop-elect Steven Ehirih of Nigeria, passed away on January 9^th, 2007 and was buried on January 10^th, 2007. Bishop-elect Steven was to become the second Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Bishop of Nigeria after Bishop Samuel Akanwa who passed away a few years ago. May his memory be eternal!
• John Guerra, brother of Fr Archimandrite Cyril Cranshaw, passed away January 22, 2007 in Nicaragua.
• For all Bishops, Priests, Deacons, Monastics and Laity of the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church who have fallen asleep into our Lord, and those listed above, Memory Eternal!

DONATIONS TO THE METROPOLIA

• Deanery of Nicaragua $1,400.00
• St John Monastery, Nicaragua $500.00

Readers wishing to contribute to towards renovation efforts and the building of three rooms at St Mary Pro-Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota are asked to send their donation to: St Nicholas Chancery, 1318 Baxter Avenue, Superior Wisconsin 54880-1762.

The three new rooms in the parish hall will house seminarians who are preparing for the priesthood. Those who wish to donate $1,000.00 toward a room will have a plaque affixed over its door with their name or that of a loved one on it. This can also be in memory of someone. All donations will be listed and a gift will be sent.

NIGERIAN DIOCESE ISSUED WARNING FROM METOPOLIA

[Imo State] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen has issued a very strong warning to all clergy and monastics and laity of the Diocese of Nigeria. In his advisement to Father Joseph Okoro and Fr Deacon Anthony Onyema, Vice-Chancellor, His Beatitude ordered that the first unauthorized election for a new bishop must be considered null and void. Upon the death of Bishop-elect Steven, certain clergy quickly convened to hold an election, which was contested by another faction of the clergy in Nigeria, who were not invited. At this first election assembly, Father Joseph Okoro was allegedly elected successor to Bishop-elect Steven, and the results were approved without the blessings or knowledge of the Metropolia. The Metropolia has advised Fr Deacon Anthony to advise all members of the clergy that another assembly will be convened to elect nominees that will be submitted to the Metropolia for its approval.

ARCHIMANDRITE CYRIL ELECTED TO SYNOD OF BISHOPS

[Rivas] Father Mitred Archimandrite Cyril of St John the Evangelist Monastery, Rivas Nicaragua, has been elected to the Syro-Russian Synod of Bishops. His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen made this official and blessed the election in January 2007. Archimandrite Cyril will become the first Hispanic to be consecrated a Bishop of the Church since 1970. He will become the first Bishop of Central & South America and Dependency of Mexico for the Metropolia, and will be enthroned as an Auxiliary Bishop of the Metropolia over this Episcopal Vicariate until such time as it grows into a diocese or eparchy of the Church. The consecration will take place in August 2007 during the Synodal Council and Metropolia Clergy-Laity Congress.  The exact date to be announced next issue of the Orthodox Christian Herald.

STUDY CENTRE IN PAKISTAN

[Lahore] Mr Sam Ahsan, who is in process of studying Orthodoxy and converting to the Orthodox Faith, has established St Cyril Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Study Centre in Lahore Pakistan where he is meeting with many who are interested in the Orthodox Church. He has also made contact with some Protestant ministers who are also interested. It is also Sam's desire to one day be ordained a priest in the Church. The Metropolia has accepted the name "St Cyril Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Study Centre" as offered by Sam Ahsan.

SECOND STUDY CENTRE TO OPEN IN PAKISTAN

[Sargodha] It was announced to the Metropolia that Seminarian Cyril Shahzad is soon going to open Holy Cross of Jesus Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Study Centre of Sargodha Pakistan. Seminarian Cyril has been with the seminary process since early 2000. It is his goal to spread the Orthodox Christian faith to many others in his province

ST MICHAEL'S PARISH OF ST CLOUD MINNESOTA UPDATE

[St Cloud] Father Deacon Steven Johnson, administrator of St Michael Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Parish of St Cloud Minnesota, was visited by reporters from the St Cloud News Tribune who came and took pictures and did an article on the new parish. This was done on Sunday April 11^th , 2007. The article appeared in the paper only days later and has already generated interest. Currently, the Typica Service with Holy Communion is served on Sundays at 1:00 p.m. every other Sunday. On alternate weekends Father Deacon Steven assists and attends classes at St Mary Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota where he is preparing for his ordination as priest in 2007. For more information call Father Deacon Steven at 320-230-2609.

METROPOLIA DIRECTIVE ON COMMUNICATION AND R-VISA

[Metropolia] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen has issued a directive to the Chancery, which is being published in this newsletter to all Bishops of the Church as being stated by Bishop Timothy, Vicar General of the Synod.

In a meeting held at St Mary's Cathedral on Sunday December 31^st, 2006, His Beatitude addressed those present about his concerns for the year ending and the one about to commence. There are a couple of our bishops who are not following the previous requests of the Metropolia, i.e., to be and remain in contact with the Metropolia at least every 30-45 days to keep us updated on their work, and on their health. His Beatitude takes this very seriously and has now requested that the Chancery make this a directive. Contact can be by phone to the Vicar General, by mail or by email to the Metropolitan. This directive goes into effect on January 1^st, 2007. Priests and Deacons and Monastic Superiors are also included in this directive.

It is also a concern that some Vicars and Bishops are not sending updated statistics on parishes, clergy, monastics, and other parochial institutions to the Metropolia, and when monastic and seminary candidates are accepted are not advising the Metropolia. It is important that such information be current and registered with the Metropolia. Seminarian Maximus Seipke has been restructuring the Chancery Office in Duluth Minnesota along with His Beatitude, and Father Deacon Steven Johnson is now organizing the Chancery Archives in St Cloud Minnesota. All have requested cooperation from all in this matter so they can better serve the Church.

Another concern of the Metropolia concerns clergy and seminarians wishing to come to the United States for final preparation in their journey to the Diaconate and Priesthood. Since 1999, the Chancery has been working hard to bring certain clerics here to Duluth Minnesota. However, many are not going to the United States Consulate in their country properly prepared. When asked why they wish to come to the United States many are neglecting to say, "To serve the Church as required by my Metropolitan Archbishop, and to prepare for my ordination." They are saying to "work" for the Church and this implies a salary or hourly wage that falls outside the R-Visa. Some say, "to study" instead of "to prepare" and this also falls outside the R-Visa and makes it sound like they are going to school, requiring a different visa. It is important that those approved say what they are coming for in a language that does not raise concern with Consulate officials. They are also instructed to take along letters from their Bishop, Vicar or Superior along with those sent from the Chancery. This is why there have been so many disapprovals. It is also important to show proof that those coming will return.

NEWS FROM VICARIATE OF NICARAGUA

[Rivas] Father Archimandrite Cyril of St John the Evangelist Monastery, Rivas Nicaragua, has updated the Metropolia on his work in Central and South America. St John the Evangelist Monastery now has one novice and two aspirants there along with Father Cyril. They are Brothers Linus, Andrew and Alexander. The Community there is very much involved in social work especially among the poor. It was also reported that St Basil the Great Seminary is now official in Rivas as well and will be accepting candidates there soon. There are already several from Nicaragua and other Latin American countries interested. In Managua, Father Cyril is investigating a building to use for a church there.

In Costa Rica there is a group of interested laity wishing to become Orthodox Catholic. They are in the process of opening a Prayer Center (Ss Cyril & Methodius) in the Province of Liberia. In Guatemala there is a young man who contacted Father Cyril about opening a Study Center and also studying to one day become a priest. He will make visits to St Basil Seminary every two months while studying on his own in Guatemala. There are still plans pending in both countries and more updates will follow in future issues of the Orthodox Christian Herald.

UPDATE ON THE AFRICAN CONGO VICARIATE

[African Congo] It was announced in November 2006 by Subdeacon Joseph Mabedi and Mother Helena, Superior of St Mary Mother of God Convent, that Subdeacon Laurent Kabosani was elected to be Bishop-elect of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, pending final approval from the Metropolia and Synod of Bishops. Subdeacon Laurent, like all the subdeacons in the Congo, was ordained thirteen years ago and, like all the others, has been hoping and praying for a new bishop to be present for ordinations and to lead the faithful. The Congo has been without a bishop for nearly the same amount of time. The Metropolia is expected to comment on this matter early in 2007. The Congo also has approximately twenty-seven nuns belonging to the Sisters of the Community of St Basil in two convents, St Mary Mother of God, and Holy Archangels.

NEW TOTAL OF PARISHES IN TANZANIA

[Mbeya] The Metropolia has just completed giving patronal names to the parishes in Tanzania that have now been united to the Church. Seminarian Maximus Seipke, Chancery Assistant, advised that the final count is 186 parishes in total that have converted from the Pentecostal Church of God to the Orthodox Church. All clergy are undergoing a study process that will lead to their eventual ordination as priests of the Orthodox Church. Deacon Demetrios is conducting most of the studies at Holy Apostles School and College in Dar Es Salaam. There are plans still pending for the opening of Christ the Savior Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Seminary there as well. The Metropolia has already donated and sent many books to the future library of the seminary.

STUDY CENTRE IN PAKISTAN

[Lahore] Mr Sam Ahsan, who is in process of studying Orthodoxy and converting to the Orthodox Faith, has established an Orthodox Study Centre in Pakistan where he is meeting with many who are interested in the Orthodox Church. He has also made contact with some Protestant ministers who are also interested. It is also Sam's desire to one day be ordained a priest in the Church. The Metropolia has accepted the name "St Cyril Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Study Centre" as offered by Sam Ahsan.

ICONOSTASIS ERECTED AT ST MICHAEL'S PARISH IN MINNESOTA

[St Cloud] Father Deacon Steven John, administrator of St Michael Parish, advised the Metropolia that its iconostas has now been placed at the church and furnished with all the appropriate icons. Deacon Steven made the icon screen. Currently, the Typica Service with Holy Communion is served on Sundays at 1:00 p.m. every other Sunday. On alternate weekends he attends classes at St Mary Cathedral in preparation for his eventual ordination as priest in 2007. For more information call Father Deacon Steven at 320-230-2609.

ANNUAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION GATHERING

Dr Melodi Luko DCh has been appointed interim President of the Alumni Association for 2007-2008. We congratulate her and thank her for her acceptance.

Concerning reunions, such an event would initially consist of a social gathering of all alumni that would begin with a lunch followed by introductions and sharing of personal achievements since graduation by each alumnus. This would be followed by an address given by members of the administration that would be followed by dinner and some form of entertainment. It would be a one-day event. Dr Melodi Luko suggested that such an event be held every two years. The Metropolia has agreed with this suggestion and such an event will be held in all odd numbered years, e.g. 2007.

The College Administration is asking for nominations of a person to be appointed as President of the Alumni Association of St Mark-Romano Byzantine College. Alumni are asked to send their thoughts on both issues to Chancery Office, 1318 Baxter Avenue, Superior Wisconsin 54880-1762, or email them at  .

STUDY REGULATIONS ENFORCED

Romano Byzantine College and St Mark Seminary have always had very strict policies regarding distance education studies. Students are granted from 1-2 years, depending on process and number of credit points to be earned, to complete their essay and/or examination requirements. Those who do not meet the deadline must request a study extension and pay the appropriate fee. Should this policy not be followed in a timely manner, a student will be placed on probation and could possibly face process termination. If terminated the student would forfeit all tuition paid and possibly lose certain credit points being earned. The new policy approved in July 2006 now requires students wishing extensions to write directly to the Chancery Office, c/o College Administration, 1318 Baxter Avenue, Superior Wisconsin 54880-1762. Students are also required to submit an essay at least every 30-45 days.

SEMINARIANS OF THE METROPOLIA IN THE UNITED STATES

The Metropolia proudly announces its seminarians who shall prepare for Holy Orders through or at St Mary's Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota.

Seminarian Mark Ittefaq Afzal, who comes from Lahore Pakistan where he was studying Orthodox Church History and Theology, arrived at St Mary's in August 2006. He is a convert to Orthodoxy from the Roman Church.

Seminarian Maximus Seipke, who resided in Duluth Minnesota prior to his acceptance, was independently studying Orthodox Theology and Catechesis while residing at St Mary Cathedral. He has been at St Mary's since August 2005. He will study towards his Bachelor of Theology degree.

Subdeacon Matthew Bayardo Largaespada of Nicaragua, currently residing in Los Angeles California, has commenced studies leading to the Master of Divinity from St Mark-Romano Byzantine College. He is expected to be ordained to the Holy Diaconate in July 2007.

Deacon Steven M Johnson has been in the seminary program at St Mary's Cathedral since 2004 and has just qualified by completing theological studies for his Bachelor of Theology from St Mark's Seminary – Romano Byzantine College. He is active in the Master of Divinity degree process. Born in Superior Wisconsin he has mostly resided in Minnesota. He is expected to be ordained to the Holy Priesthood in late 2007.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION - TRANSCRIPTS

St Mark Seminary - Romano Byzantine College has announced that alumni wishing verification of studies must be renewed with the Alumni Association by May 1^st, 2007. A transcript that costs a supporting alumnus $10.00 each will now cost non-supporting graduates $20.00 each. Please send your annual $75.00 renewal to Chancery Office, 1318 Baxter Avenue, Superior WI 54880-1762 by January 1^st, 2007. You may also pay online by credit card by going to rbsocc.org/donations and noting your payment for the Alumni Association.

METROPOLIA TO APPOINT BOARD OF REGENTS FOR COLLEGE

The Metropolia has announced plans to create a new Board of Regents for St Mark-Romano Byzantine College since the dissolution of the original board back in 2001. The Board will help serve the needs of students and alumni as well as the Metropolia. Academic Policies will be submitted and reviewed by this Board along with the Metropolia. Those being considered are: Dr Peter Smyth PhD, Dr Joseph Bannon DCh, Father Patrick Lemming MDiv, Mr Hampton Bumgarner, Bishop John of India, and Father Anthony Lubeke. More information will be announced later this year. Dr Basil Gikas is the Dean of Education and Academic Affairs for the Department of Education of the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church in Athens Greece.

NEW POLICY REGARDING GRADUATION PROJECTS

Candidates for graduation are now expected to submit the title of intended project and abstract to the College prior to commencing their work for approval. This became a new policy of the institution on August 1^st, 2005. The abstract must be typed, brief and submitted by mail for approval. This should not be done until study essays have been completed or with not more than two essays left to submit.

CLASSIFIED ADS

Advertise in the Herald You can advertise your parish, center, club or other organization in this section for $10.00 plus $.50 (fifty cents) per word. The Orthodox Christian Herald is sent to every diocese, which copies it on to local members. It is read by over 1,000 people and growing.

Framed Icon of St Panteleimon, Patron of Healers Available from St Mary's Orthodox Catholic Church, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807. Suitable for hanging in counseling centers, clinics, and in the home. $40.00, postage and handling included. Commission members are required to have this icon hanging in their offices and clinics. Order yours today.

Lest We Forget Handmade nun dolls from the past. Full habits of many orders of nuns from various Churches including Lutheran and Roman. Nostalgia brought to your doorsteps. These are beautifully created and show the exact habits of nuns worn many years ago. The wife of one of our priests makes them. You can write for catalog or additional information to Father Patrick Lemming, St James House, 804 Catlett Road, Sevierville TN 37862.

Religious Articles Hand-Made Chalice and Diskos Veils, Aers, Red Communion Cloths, Crosses, Analogia, Wooden Blessing Crosses (for house blessings), and other items for sale and made by Deacon Steven Johnson. All religious items are hand-made to order and inexpensive. For more information and prices please write to: Rev Deacon Steven M Johnson, 1719 South 7^th Avenue, St Cloud MN 56301, or call 320-230-2609.

Vestments for Sale Greek-style priest's vestments tailor made in 4-5 weeks. Available colors: White, Silver, Purple, Red, Green, Black, and Gold. Set includes Phelon (Chasuble), Epitrachelion (Stole), Cuffs, Zone, Aer and Chalice and Diskos veils. Cost per set: $600.00. For more information write to Chancery Office, 1318 Baxter Avenue, Superior WI 54880-1762; or email to  .

A Treatise on Chiropathy: The Holistic Healing Ministry is now available from St Nicholas Center, 1318 Baxter Avenue, Superior WI 54880-1762. The cost is $25.00 and includes Postage and Handling.

Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing CRCH.RBSOCC.ORG  For information write to: Dr Peter Smyth, Pine Valley Medical Center, 4600 Highway 7 #230, Woodbridge ON L4L 4Y7 Canada; or Father Timothy Kjera, Post Office Box 16201, Duluth Minnesota 55816-1612. This is a Licensed Society of Professionals in service to God through the Healing Ministry of the Church.

The Companions of St Basil is open to married or single men and women wishing to share in the good works and prayers of the Monastic Community of St Basil. Those interested in the Companions of St Basil should write to: Moderator Dr Audrey Daniel CSB, PO Box 14518, Greenville SC 29610.

Monastic Community of St Basil and Companions of St Basil open to those who wish to follow a monastic way of life or who wish to be associated with it in the secular world. Write to: Chancery Office, 1318 Baxter Avenue, Superior WI 54880.. The Community has monastic centers in the African Congo, Nigeria, Nicaragua, and Minnesota (USA)..The Sisters of the Community of St Basil are headquartered in the African Congo and are part of the Monastic Community of St Basil.

Holy Mother of God Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, Chorbishop Joseph Mpongo, Louis Lambert Avenue 32A, 6040 Jumet Belgium.

St Luke the Physician Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Mission Parish, VR Father Paul Jensen (Pastor), 339 NE 8^th Street, Paris Texas 75450.

St Mary the Theotokos Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Cathedral, located at 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth Minnesota 55807. Clergy: His Excellency Bishop Timothy, Pastor; Deacon Steven M Johnson, Seminarian Mark Afzal, Seminarian Maximus Seipke, Assistants. Phone: 218-624-0202. Sunday Liturgy: 10:30 A.M.

St Thomas the Apostle Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 1719 South 7^th Avenue, St Cloud Minnesota. Deacon Steven M Johnson, Administrator.