POPE SHENOUDA III PASSES INTO THE ETERNAL GLORY OF GOD
CBN News March 19, 2012
Egypt's Coptic Christians are mourning the passing of their leader, who died Saturday. Pope Shenouda III, 88, is believed to have suffered from cancer. He led the Coptic Orthodox Church for more than 40 years and tried to protect the rights of the minority Christians in a country that is prone to persecution by Muslims.
Ihab Aziz, president of the Coptic American Friendship Association, left his home in Washington state and returned to Egypt a year ago to fight for the inclusion of Coptic rights in the northern African country. "Every Copt is asking the other, 'What are we going to do now? How are we going to survive? Are they going to cleanse us from this country because this wise man is no longer here?'" Aziz told the Seattle Times. Members of the Coptic community held Shenouda in high regard. "I've always looked up to Pope Shenouda, like my godfather. I could disagree with my biological father but not with the late pope," said Nabil Kamal, a 46-year-old engineer from Cairo. "His opinions about religion and various aspects of life were like sacred orders to me and many Copts," he added. "It was not just because he was our pope, but rather because he made sense and was convincing in pretty much everything he said or did."
Egypt's Coptic Christians number about 8.2 million strong, making them the largest Christian minority in the Middle East. Church officials announced Sunday that Bishop Pachomious would serve as the Church's interim leader until a new pope is chosen. The process of selecting a new pope could take up to two months.
ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH vs. PRESIDENT OBAMA From the Manhattan Declaration Newsletter Cardinal Dolan, one of the original signers of the Manhattan Declaration, has, acting on
behalf of the US council of Catholic Bishops, has officially rejected President Obama's so-called "compromise" concerning the outrageous attempt to force religious institutions to purchase insurance covering abortion-inducing
drugs, contraception, and sterilization. Dolan has also signed one of our most recent and powerful statements in opposition, which you will find on this website. This issue has unfortunately become a major campaign
debate. I say unfortunately, because this should not be a partisan fight. This is a battle over our most fundamental freedom: freedom of religion. And it's also a battle over the Constitution--whether Congress can allow government
agencies to legislate. It's a battle that is going to be fought out on Capitol Hill and in the courts. We stress that this is not a political question. This is not the Obama Administration vs. the Church. This is a question of
whether the Constitution will be respected and the first liberty protected, or whether the bureaucrats will be allowed to make a decision that will override our religious liberties. Congress would never mandate
religious organizations to violate their faith. But in passing the Affordable Health Care Act, Congress in essence delegated its legislative authority to federal agencies—staffed by un-elected political appointees. We want to do
our level best to keep this from becoming a partisan issue, and we want to argue always on the high ground, protecting the Constitution and respecting freedom of conscience. It's at the heart of liberty. When this is lost, all
liberty is gone. The official position of the Bishops' Conference signals that no compromise could succeed. Every single Christian, regardless of denomination or church affiliation, has to take the same stand. We
would be eager to know if there are groups and associations in your community you can speak with; if you will talk to your pastor about preaching on this; if you would be willing to go to other people in your community and get them
to sign the Manhattan Declaration. The most powerful weapon we have at this particular time is people power. We need 1 million people to sign the Manhattan Declaration. It will let people know we are not going to be rolled over and
we are not going to quit fighting. Can you help us? It's up to us—every one of us—to vigorously defend life, marriage, and religious liberty. Because it is Important for the Church. God bless you. The Manhattan Declaration.
CONSTITUTION MUST BE UPHELD
Because it is Important for the Nation.
The Manhattan Declaration is a statement of principles, not a political action plan. The Declaration's aim is to alert secular leaders and other influences of our culture that Christians of many different
traditions are already united in fundamental convictions regarding biblical morality and conscience. We are deeply concerned about legislative and judicial actions that: deny value to the innocent, weak and aged; dismantle
historic protections and definitions for families, children and marriage; and, impose legal strictures contrary to the constitutional freedoms long provided for people and institutions of faith in America. The Declaration
reminds the nation as well as the church that the Christian conscience is bound to Christ. We cannot love him or our nation well if we refuse to address challenges to morality and liberty that we believe will unravel the
social fabric that protects all her citizens.
Editor's Note: Since the publication of this article, there have been multiple joint conferences including Catholics, Protestants, Jews, and Muslims. Many religious groups reject the position of the White House and plan lawsuits of thier own.
METROPOLIS ASKS PRIESTS TO BE FAITHFUL TO OBLATION
[Sharon PA] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen wants all clergy who are able to comply with the monthly oblation and annual obligations assigned to all clergy of the Church. Some are becoming very relaxed on their obligations according to the financial registry of the Archdiocese, and the Chancery Office. There is no room in the Church for clergy who disobey the decrees of the Holy Metropolis, the policies and traditions of the Church, and their sacerdotal responsibilities, without a dispensation from the Church.
Clergy of the Archdiocese must, except when it can be proven that there is a hardship, do the following. (1) Support the Holy Metropolis and Archdiocese with a monthly oblation, especially those with a secular employment. (2) Attend and participate in the annual Synod and Conference of the Archdiocese. (3) Perform all the Sacerdotal Obligations or Diaconal Obligations required of clergy. The Church does not want just "priests" but rather "honorable and dedicated priests." We receive information from various persons throughout the year who advise that occasionally, or more often in some cases, that when they try to locate a parish it is fruitless (because of no signage), or they find one but the priest is nowhere to be found. This cannot be tolerated! The Archdiocesan Chancery will be contacting those clergy who are failing in one or more the responsibilities they accepted when ordained. This matter is not to be taken lightly any longer.
If a member of the clergy is have financial difficulties, they are to communicate this in writing to the Archdiocese Chancery, offering facts and verification of the facts as to why they cannot participate, and asking for a dispensation. They are not to simply ignore requests or policies as though they are the Archdiocese or exempt from participating. This advisement and the policy implied in it go into effect on January 1, 2012.
CHRIST'S TWO NATURES UNITED IN THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
The Oriental Orthodox Churches
Common Statement on the Natures of Christ by Roman and Oriental Churches: "We believe that our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ, the Incarnate - Logos is perfect in His Divinity and perfect in His Humanity. He made His humanity One with His Divinity without Mixture, nor Mingling, nor Confusion. His Divinity was not separated from His Humanity even for a moment or twinkling of an eye. At the same time, we anathematize the christological doctrines of both Nestorius and Eutyches".
Oriental Orthodoxy is the faith of those Eastern Christian Churches, often referred to as Miaphysites, that recognize only the first three ecumenical councils — First Council of Nicea, First Council of Constantinople, and the First Council of Ephesus. They reject the christological definitions of the Council of Chalcedon (451). Hence, these Oriental Orthodox Churches are also called Old Oriental Churches or the Non-Chalcedonian Churches. These Churches are generally not in communion with any of the multifarious Eastern Orthodox Churches but they are in dialogue with them for a return to unity. Despite the potentially confusing nomenclature (Oriental meaning Eastern), Oriental Orthodox Churches are distinct from those that are collectively referred to as the Eastern Orthodox Church. The Oriental Orthodox communion comprises six groups: Coptic Orthodox, Ethiopian Orthodox, Eritrean Orthodox, Syriac Orthodox, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church (India) and Armenian Apostolic Churches. These six churches, while being in communion with one another, are hierarchically independent. The Oriental Orthodox Church and the rest of the Church split over differences in christological terminology. The First Council of Nicea (325) declared that Jesus Christ is God, that is to say, "consubstantial" with the Father; and the First Council of Ephesus (431) that Jesus, though divine as well as human, is only one being (hypostasis). Twenty years after Ephesus, the Council of Chalcedon declared that Jesus is one person in two complete natures, one human and one divine. Those who opposed Chalcedon likened its doctrine to the Nestorian heresy, condemned at Ephesus, that Christ was two distinct beings, one divine (the Logos) and one human (Jesus).
The schism between the Oriental Orthodox and the rest of Christendom occurred in the 5th century. The separation resulted in part from the refusal of Pope Dioscorus, Patriarch of Alexandria and the other 13 Egyptian Bishops, to accept the Christological dogmas promulgated by the Council of Chalcedon, which held that Jesus is in two natures: one divine and one human. They would accept only "of or from two natures" but not "in two natures." To the hierarchs who would lead the Oriental Orthodox, the latter phrase was tantamount to accepting Nestorianism, which expressed itself in a terminology incompatible with their understanding of Christology. Nestorianism was understood as seeing Christ in two separate natures, human and divine, each with different actions and experiences; in contrast Cyril of Alexandria advocated the formula "one nature of the Incarnate Word of God," stressing the unity of the Incarnation over all other considerations. It is not entirely clear that Nestorius himself was a Nestorian. The Oriental Orthodox Churches were therefore often called Monophysite, although they reject this label, as it is associated with Eutychian Monophysitism; they prefer the term "Miaphysite" Churches. Oriental Orthodox Churches reject what they consider to be the heretical Monophysite teachings of Apollinaris of Laodicaea and Eutyches, the Dyophysite definition of the Council of Chalcedon, and the Antiochene Christology of Theodore of Mopsuestia, Nestorius of Constantinople, Theodoret of Cyrus, and Ibas of Edessa. Christology, although important, was not the only reason for the Alexandrian Church's refusal to accept the declarations of the Council of Chalcedon; political, ecclesiastical and imperial issues were hotly debated during that period.
In the years following Chalcedon the patriarchs of Constantinople intermittently remained in communion with the non-Chalcedonian patriarchs of Alexandria, Antioch, Jerusalem, (see Henotikon) while Rome remained out of communion with the latter and in unstable communion with Constantinople. It was not until 518 that the new Byzantine Emperor, Justin I (who accepted Chalcedon), demanded that the Church in the Roman Empire accept the Council's decisions. Justin ordered the replacement of all non-Chalcedonian bishops, including the patriarchs of Antioch and Alexandria. The extent of the influence of the Bishop of Rome in this demand has been a matter of debate. Justinian I also attempted to bring those monks who still rejected the decision of the Council of Chalcedon into communion with the greater church. The exact time of this event is unknown, but it is believed to have been between 535 and 548. St Abraham of Farshut was summoned to Constantinople and he chose to bring with him four monks. Upon arrival, Justinian summoned them and informed them that they would either accept the decision of the Council or lose their positions. St Abraham refused to entertain the idea. Theodora tried to persuade Justinian to change his mind, seemingly to no avail. Abraham himself stated in a letter to his monks that he preferred to remain in exile rather than subscribe to a faith contrary to that of Athanasius.
By the 20th century the Chalcedonian schism was not seen with the same importance. From several meetings between the authorities of the Holy See and the Oriental Orthodoxy, reconciling declarations emerged in the common statement of the Syriac Patriarch (Mar Ignatius Zakka I Iwas) and Pope John Paul II in 1984. "The confusions and schisms that occurred between their Churches in the later centuries, they realize today, in no way affect or touch the substance of their faith. Since these arose only because of differences in terminology and culture and in the various formulae adopted by different theological schools to express the same matter. Accordingly, we find today no real basis for the sad divisions and schisms that subsequently arose between us concerning the doctrine of Incarnation. In words and life we confess the true doctrine concerning Christ our Lord, notwithstanding the differences in interpretation of such a doctrine which arose at the time of the Council of Chalcedon. The four bishops of Rome, Alexandria, Ephesus (later transferred to Constantinople) and Antioch were all given status as Patriarchs; in other words, the ancient apostolic centers of Christianity, by the First Council of Nicea (predating the schism). Each of the four patriarchs was responsible for those bishops and churches within his own area of the Universal Church, (with the exception of the Patriarch of Jerusalem, who was independent of the rest). Thus, the Bishop of Rome has always been held by the others to be fully sovereign within his own area, as well as "First-Among-Equals", due to the traditional belief that the Apostles Saint Peter and Saint Paul were martyred in Rome.
The technical reason for the schism was that the bishops of Rome and Constantinople excommunicated the non-Chalcedonian bishops in 451 for refusing to accept the "in two natures" teaching, thus declaring them to be out of communion. Recent declarations indicate that the Holy See of Rome now regards itself as being in a state of partial communion with the other Patriarchates. The highest office in Oriental Orthodoxy is that of Patriarch. There are Patriarchs within the local Oriental Orthodox communities of the Armenian, Coptic, Eritrean, Ethiopian, Indian, and Syrian Orthodox Churches. The title of Pope, which is used by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria (Pope of the Coptic Orthodox Church) has the meaning of 'Father' and is not a jurisdictional title. However, the Coptic Pope holds the honor of being "first among equals", as the Ecumenical Patriarch does among the Eastern Orthodox, and as such he functions as the president of pan-jurisdictional gatherings of the Oriental Orthodox.
SYRIAC-GREEK ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CATHOLIC
STATEMENT ON "CHRISTOLOGY"
The Holy Metropolis of St Peter and Syriac-Greek Antiochene Synod of Bishops
When our first primate, His Beatitude Metropolitan Timotheos Vilathi, was consecrated in 1892 by bishops of the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church, by a Bull issued from His Holiness Ignatius Peter III of the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch, he accepted the view of the Oriental Church' on Christology. However, soon after this he reverted back to the teachings of Chalcedon. Throughout history many (but not all) of the bishops held fast to the Christology of Chalcedon without rejecting that of the Oriental Churches. In fact, His Beatitude Metropolitan Joseph (Sokolowski) - (IV Legitimate Primate from Metropolitan Timotheos) felt that only terminology (semantics) separated the two thoughts. In 1988, His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen (Thomas) - (V Legitimate Primate from Metropolitan Timotheos) reopened dialogue with the Malankara Orthodox Catholicos through Chorbishop Kuriakos Thottupuram of Chicago Illinois. Today, this has led to more serious dialogue between the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Archdiocese and the Syriac Patriarchate of Antioch through His Eminence Metropolitan Archbishop Cyril, Patriarchal Legate of the United States of America. This has also led to a better understanding and acceptance of the Oriental Churches' view of Christology. This Non-Chalcedonian view of the Oriental Orthodox Churches is now accepted and believed also by the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church, among others.
The Churches of the Oriental Orthodox Communion are not Monophysite but are Myaphysite. The Oriental Orthodox Churches include the Armenian Apostolic Church, the Syrian (Syriac) Orthodox Church, the Indian (Malankara) Orthodox Church, the Coptic Orthodox Church (including the British Orthodox Church which is under the Patriarch of Alexandria), the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, and the newly autocephalous Eritrean Orthodox Church. In 2009, the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church has returned to the Oriental teaching on Christology Some of the Independent Catholic Churches, while not being in full communion with the above Churches for various reasons, also embrace this Non-Chalcedonian Christology. These include the Antiochian Catholic Church in America. In recent theological discourses, some Old-Catholic, and Anglican theologians have begun to embrace this Christology as being consistent with, though different from, the Chalcedon formulation. The Oriental Orthodox Churches accept only "of or from two natures" but not "in two natures." However, Nestorianism was understood as seeing Christ in two separate natures, human and divine, each with different actions and experiences; in contrast St Cyril of Alexandria advocated the formula "one nature of the Incarnate Word of God," stressing the unity of the Incarnation over all other considerations. Miaphysitism holds that in the one person of Jesus Christ, Divinity and Humanity are united in one or single nature ("physis"), the two being united without separation, without confusion, and without alteration.
Two positions in particular caused controversy:
- Nestorianism stressed the distinction between the divine and the human in Christ to such an extent that it appeared that they believed there were two persons living in the same body. The view was condemned at the Council of Ephesus.
- Eutychianism stressed the unity of Christ's nature to such an extent that Christ's divinity consumed his humanity as the ocean consumes a drop of vinegar. The view was condemned at the Council of Chalcedon.
In summary, the Syriac-Greek Antiochene
Archdiocese accepts that Jesus Christ is "of or from two natures" but not "in two natures. The Only Son of God came into this world with a human body from the Virgin Mary, the Mother
of God, and remains always very God and very Man. It also rejects the teachings of Nestorianism and Eutychianism. The Syriac Orthodox Church calls Mary "Yoldath Aloho", 'Bearer of God', because she gave birth to
Christ, God truly incarnate. Therefore the Blessed Mother is rightly accorded the title of "Mother of God." This was another theological dispute in the 5th century that occurred over the teachings of Nestorius, the Patriarch of
Constantinople, who taught that God the Word was not hypostatically joined with human nature, but rather dwelt in the man Jesus. As a consequence of this, he denied the title "Mother
of God" (Theotokos) to the Virgin Mary, declaring her instead to be "Mother of Christ" Christotokos. The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church believes in the
mystery of the Incarnation. That is, the Only Son of God, the Second Person of the Holy Trinity, took to Himself a body and became man. He is the "Son of God who became the Son of Man." It further believes that at the time of
Annunciation, when the Angel Gabriel was sent to the Virgin Mary, the Holy Spirit came upon her and cleansed her of all natural impurity, filling her with His grace. She is not given the title of "Immaculate
Conception" making her equal to Christ as the only human ever born without original sin. Then the Only Son of God came down and entered her immaculate womb, and took to Himself a body through
her, thus becoming a perfect Man with a perfect Soul. After nine months, He was born of her and her virginity was maintained contrary to the laws of nature. It further believes that His true Godhead and
His true Manhood were in Him essentially united, He being one Lord and one Son, and that after the union took place in Him, and that Jesus Christ had but one Nature Incarnate, was one Person, had
one Will and one Work. Being a natural union of persons, free of all separateness, intermixture, confusion, mingling, change and transformation that mark this union. After His resurrection and
ascension the apostles wrote of Jesus as "the same yesterday, today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). The Syriac Orthodox Church believes that the death of Christ was the separation of His soul
from His body, but His deity did not at any time leave either His body or His soul. It further believes that by His death for us, He conferred upon us salvation from eternal death and reconciliation with His
Heavenly Father. The Blessed Virgin Mary is called Theotokos, and she was Ever-Virgin.
HANDMADE ITEMS FROM UGANDA ON SALE AT BOOKSTORE/GIFT SHOP
[Sharon PA] Father Christopher Tamale sent some beautiful handmade items from Kiboga Uganda to be sold at Saint Nicholas Center in Sharon Pennsylvania. The profits from these items will be sent to Uganda to help the mission parishes there in their survival. If you wish to purchase some by mail, please contact the bookstore and ask for a catalog of items and price list. There are change purses, purses for women, hats, jewelry, coconut bracelets, and many other beautifully handmade gifts. The Metropolis has several very poor parishes in Uganda. There are also two schools for children in Uganda under our omophor. We are asking that all try to make a purchase to help with the great poverty being experience by the faithful. If you wish to assist please contact Brother Vincent Cappabianca CSB, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146, and a catalog will be sent. You can call (724) 308.6218. You can also just send a cash donation by check or via PayPal. Please mark your donation for Uganda Vicariate and payable to "EOCC."
BRIEF HISTORY OF THE SYRIAC PATRIARCHATE OF ANTIOCH
From the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch The Syriac Orthodox Church is one of the most ancient Christian Churches tracing its roots to the
Church of Antioch. The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch (Acts of the Apostles 11:26). Apostle Peter is believed to have established a church in Antioch in AD 37, the remnants of which are
still in Antakya (the modern name of Antioch), Turkey. After the martyrdom of Apostle Peter, he was succeeded by St. Evodius and St. Ignatius Noorono as shepherds of the flock in Antioch. In the
writings of St. Ignatius we find the evolution of the ecclesiastical order of bishops—ordained successors of the Apostles in whom continued the spiritual authorities vested by our Lord in the
Apostles. The bishopric of Antioch was recognized in the ecumenical Synod of Nicea (AD 325) as one of the Patriarchates of Christendom (along with that of Alexandria and Rome). It produced a line
of succession beginning with Apostle Peter, which continues to this day in the Syriac Orthodox Church. Antioch was at the time of Christ the capital of the Roman province of Syria and an important center
of commerce. As a city imbued in the Hellenistic culture, Greek was the common language. But the majority of the people in the region, especially outside the cities spoke Syriac, the Edessene dialect of
Aramaic, the language spoken by our Lord. The disciples Addai, Mari, Aggai and Apostle Thomas, are believed to have spread the Gospel in the regions north east of Antioch, of Edessa (Urhoy) and
Nisibis and further to upper northern Mesopotamian plains between Rivers Tigris and Euphrates. The Syriac Doctrine of Addai recounts how Christ send Addai, one of the Seventy Disciples, to King
Abgar of Edessa. It is believed that Apostle Thomas went further east arriving in what is today India in AD 52. Many important and influential centers of Syriac speaking Christians emerged in the cities
such as Edessa (Urhoy), Adiabene (Hadyab), and Nisibis (Nsibin). While Antioch was the seat of the bishophric, Edessa is often considered the cradle of Syriac Christianity.
The Church of Antioch played a significant role in the early history of Christianity. It played a prominent role in the first three Synods held at Nicea (325) , Constantinople (381), and Ephesus
(431), shaping the formulation and early interpretation of Christian doctrines. In AD 451, the Council of Chalcedon and its christological position resulted in a schism that divided the faithful under the
Apostolic See of Antioch into two. One today known as the `idto suryoyto treeysath shubho (Syrian or Syriac Orthodox Church) and the other the Eastern Orthodox (or Rum Orthodox) Church of
Antioch. The latter had the support of the Byzantium Emperor Justinian who convened the Council of Chalcedon. The years that followed resulted in a struggle over the Apostolic See, with bishops of both
persuasions assuming the position of Patriarch of Antioch. In 518, Patriarch St. Severus was exiled from Antioch. The seat of the Syriac Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch moved to different monasteries
including Qartmin, Qenneshrin (Chalkis, near Aleppo), Malatya, and Amid (Diyarbakir), and finally settled in 1293 in Dayro d-Mor Hananyo (also known as Kurkmo Dayro in Syriac and Deir Zafaran
in Arabic) in Mardin. It remained at this monastery until 1933 when the political circumstances forced its migration to Homs, Syria and later to Damascus in 1959.
Another center of the Syriac Orthodox emerged in former Persian territory, that of the so-called Easterners (Syr. Madnehoyo). The Syriac Orthodox community there was partly a result of the
Persian abduction of the Syrian population during the wars with Byzantium and forced settlement on Persian territory and partly of Christians in Persia who reacted against political imposition of the
doctrines of the Church of the East. In the period of the Sassanids, the Easterners for practical reasons established an ecclesiastical organization of their own, recognizing the metropolitan of Tagrit
on the River Tigris as their head in 629. Later in the eleventh century, the title came to be known as the Maphryono (literally "one who bears fruit" or "consecrator"). He was elected by the eastern
bishops, just as the Patriarch was elected by those of the west, but was ordained by the Patriarch. Later, this office gained such importance that Maphryonos ordained the Patriarchs, but at the same
time, the Maphryonos ceased to be elected and from 793 (with the Maphryono Sarbelios) they were nominated by the Patriarchs. Among the Maphryonos, was the illustrious author Mor Gregorius Bar
`Ebroyo (1226-186). Dayro d-Mor Mattay in Mosul served as the seat of the Maphryono in many periods of history. Later, the Maphryono took residence at the Patriarchate in Mardin. The last of the
Maphryonos passed away in 1848 and the position became defunct. The history of the Syriac Orthodox Church is characterized by adversity. Byzantium oppression in the
sixth and seventh centuries was followed by the atrocities of the Crusaders in the 11th and 12th centuries, then decimation at the hands of the Mongolians lead by Tamerlane (1336-1405) in about
1400, and severe restrictions under the Ottoman Sultanate. The growth of nationalism in the waning years of the Ottoman Sultanate lead to the massacre of about 25,000 in what is today South East
Turkey in 1895-96. An even greater calamity occurred in 1915, etched in the memory of the Syriac Orthodox community as the Sayfo (Year of the Sword). This wiped out 90,314 people (including 154
priests) in 13,350 families in 346 villages representing about a third of the Syriac Orthodox population in the area (according to the records compiled by Patriarch Aphrem I). Further misery came with the
Kurdish rebellion in 1925-26, when the Kurds used the monasteries of Mor Malke and Dayro da-Slibo and the churches in Basibrin and near Hbob as bases. The immense suffering and destruction
from 1895 onwards resulted in the alteration of the demographics of the community and mass emigration to other areas in the Middle East, notably Syria, to the North and South Americas, to
different parts of Europe, and to Australia. Amidst all the adversity, the Church produced several illustrious saints whose lives and works had such immense influence not only on the Syriac tradition
but much of Christendom. The rich liturgical heritage of the Syriac Orthodox Church is but one of their legacies. Scholars of the Church such as Mor Ya`qub of Edessa, George, the Bishop of the Arabians,
and Moses Bar Kepha played an important role in transmitting Greek knowledge to the Arab world. Numerous Syriac Orthodox authors have also recorded historiographical accounts. Among them are
such works as the Ecclesiastical History of John of Ephesus, the Chronicle of Jacob of Edessa, the Chronicle of Zuqnin (erroneously attributed to Patriarch Dionysius of Tel-Mahre), the Chronicle of
Patriarch Mikhayel Rabo, the Chronography and Ecclesiastical History of Maphryono Gregorius Bar `Ebroyo. Authors affiliated with the Catholic Church and Church of England have written many of the
historical accounts recorded in English. While many of these works provide a great deal of information accessible to the English readers, denominational bias is evident in these works.
Edited by the OCH Editor
LENT IN THE MALANKARA SYRIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH
Lent: A Stone Jar for Our Renewal and Growth
By Father Bijesh Philip
Vice Principal, St. Thomas Orthodox Seminary, Nagpur India
The Church is helping us to progress in our spiritual life in the rhythm of its fasts and feasts. The important feasts in the Church are preceded by short or long fasting periods. Thus the mystery of true happiness is revealed. But the secular world is attempting to draw our attention just to matters of fun only with out ample preparation for having lasting joy. That is why after the excitement of material achievements, boredom and frustration dance in human minds. But Lenten preparation for the feasts is a preparation for the heavenly joy, which is growing and lasting. Through the Great Lent we are progressing towards the festival of the resurrection of Christ, the feast of feasts.
In the ancient Christian community great Lent started as a preparation for the baptism of the aspirants of Christianity on Easter day. These catechumens were trained during the great Lent by the spiritual instruction of bishop, and their own fasting. Gradually all believers in the church participated in this Lent and renewed their baptismal grace. Today we commemorate Christ's fasting before his public ministry and his blessed passion during this Lent and make use of it for fifty days for our complete spiritual renewal. There are many spiritual exercises, which help us to grow in Christ. Holy sacraments like baptism, confession, Qurbana, etc, fasting and Lent, prayers, meditations, teaching and preaching in the church etc are preparing a ground for receiving grace from God for this growth. These spiritual exercises and especially Lents can be compared to the stone jars into which water was poured according to the instruction of our Lord at the wedding in Cana (St. John 2:7). By being in those stone jars, water could meet its creator and He could transform it to tasty wine. Stone jar prepared a ground for the transformation. But the source of that change was God only. Likewise we are supposed to be poured into Lent for being transformed by God.
Lent is training for simple life. During Lents we avoid certain times of meal and certain types of meal. Ancient Christian practice was to have just one time of meal that is purely a vegetarian supper during the great Lent. Fasting and vegetarianism during the Lent are invitation to overcome the enslaving power of consumerist culture, which is based on greed. Al Gore's famous documentary film An Inconvenient Truth exposes the tragic result of such an uncontrollable life and also the waiting environmental destruction if no remedial measures and restrictions are adopted. In the midst of prosperity and over consumption we are trained to enjoy the beauty of a simple life based on need. So during the Lent we limit our life to extremely necessary things and minimum needs with regard to food, media like television, Internet, and the use of technology in general. Along with many useful advantages, our scientific technological paradise sometimes makes us slaves of materialism. It is noticeable that two questions repeated continuously in America are about how to lose weight and where to park car. Lent gives us a wonderful experience of simple life. This freedom from the grip of over luxurious life and enslaving consumerist culture make us sensitive to the basic needs of the poor and the suffering and share with them our resources. In the book of Isaiah there is an enlightening description about the Lent which is pleasing to God: "Is it not this, the fast that I have chosen? To loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke? Is it not to deal your bread to the hungry, and that you bring the poor that are cast out to your house? When you see the naked, that you cover him; and that you hide not yourself from your own flesh?" (Isaiah 58: 6-7).
Lent is a powerful weapon for our unseen spiritual warfare. It is the human tendency to fight always. But its proper orientation is not against other people but against evil with in us and evil in the society. God is helping us to conquer passions like hatred, avarice, jealousy, greed, lust etc through Lent. Jesus Christ went through a long fasting and immediately after that we see him saying a bold NO to the evil force who brought temptations. Till the last breath there will be temptations and spiritual warfare in the lives of all and those who make use of Lent as a spiritual weapon will be victorious. The prayers of the Great Lent highlight Moses, Elijah, and Jesus as the great champions of fasting. According to the scripture they observed fasting for forty days and it was these three who are seen in unusually bright light on the transfiguration mount. When the Jews under captivity in Babylon were released and were about to go back to Jerusalem around two and half millennia ago, they declared a fasting to ensure God's protection in their journey. (Ezra 8: 21&22) It is recorded in the book of Ezra that they did not ask the King to send soldiers to ensure their security so that the gentiles could not laugh at the shallow nature of their faith. In our transient journey in this planet to eternity our ultimate trust and security is to be in God who strengthens us to conquer all kinds of evil and to progress. In short, through fasting we humble ourselves and surrender fully to God who empowers us to face all challenges and sinful tendencies.
Lent is a time when we cooperate with God for the nourishment of our inner being. It is natural to be preoccupied with physical and mental pleasures and nourishment. But the abstinences during Lent indicate the shift of focus and we give extra care to the nourishment of our spirit, the inner spiritual icon that is like an Internet explorer in a computer to get connected to a magnificent transcendent world. During Lent we give more time for Bible reading, meditation and Prayer so that our spirit is purified and enriched by God, the life giving food of our inner life. Then the Holy Spirit who resides in our spirit can smoothly guide us. Good deeds and words will flow from the inner springboard, which is purified and strengthened by Christ. 'Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.'(Mt. 5:8)
European missionaries were astonished to see the rigorous Lenten practices of the St. Thomas Christian community of Kerala in 16th century. The letters that were sent by these missionaries from Kerala to their mother congregations in Europe reveal many things about the Lent in those days. St. Thomas Christians used to have fasting till evening and they used to go to their churches for daily prayers during the great Lent. Most of them even avoided coffee and chewing Vettila during this time. Dr. James Aerthayil CMI has done a good study about these documents in his book The Spiritual Heritage of the St. Thomas Christians. According to this study St. Thomas Christians used to have almost 225 days of fasting an year. In spite of the fact that they were leading a simple agrarian life, our forefathers and mothers took Lents and thus their spiritual growth seriously. This may open our eyes to see the greater need of Lent today in our more complex and challenging situation. May the Holy Spirit help us to use this stone jar as cocoon for our holistic rejuvenation.
WHAT IS THE "ARCHDIOCESE OF CLEVELAND" OHIO?
From the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Synod of Bishops
Deposed bishop Simeon "Robert" Anderson was recently made an "archbishop" by the Romanian Orthodox Patriarchate's ousted Orthodox Church of France that was anathematized by the Patriarchate. It's current leader and bishop, Nicholas, accepts clergy from other jurisdictions known to be deposed, and did so with Simeon Robert Anderson making him an "archbishop" of an "archdiocese" that has only a handful of followers. Some other defrocked clergy have also made their way to this group. Simeon, as you might recall from other articles, claimed to have been ordained in the Roman Catholic Church as a priest, but this was found to be untrue after checking with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago Illinois. His second ordination in another jurisdiction claiming to be "Orthodox" was also found to be invalid. This was all uncovered by the Syriac-Greek Archdiocese during an investigation at St Brendan's House where Simeon Anderson was (and still is) skimming money from Alex Badea's "non-profit" organization to purchase expensive gifts and alcohol for himself. When caught, he was deposed and he then immediately began maligning the Archdiocese. The so-called "Orthodox Church of France" without investigation accepted him. Photos of him online on the website of the Orthodox Church of France show him in a church, but the church is one of the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Archdiocesan parishes – not his. This is also true of deposed bishop Cyril Roberto Cranshaw's, who ventured along with Anderson to the Orthodox Church of France. The Orthodox Church of France, after it was cut off from the Romanian Orthodox Patriarchate, splintered into several smaller groups - most of which are not recognized as "canonical." They are known for taking in clergy who are under disciplinary sanctions from other jurisdictions without knowing much about them and making them hierarchs over dioceses having few members. The Orthodox Church of France's canonicity ended with its expulsion from the Romanian Orthodox Patriarchate. In trying to understand the "Who's Who" in this group one will find it confusing because of the many schisms within it. From OrthodoxWiki.org - The Orthodox Church of France (l'Eglise Orthodoxe de France, formerly l'Eglise Catholique Orthodoxe de France or ECOF) is an autonomous diocese of Western Rite parishes in France formed in 1936 by the Church of Russia. The Orthodox Church of France is currently neither recognized by or in communion with any of the autocephalous or autonomous Orthodox Churches.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:
The Orthodox Church of France (OCF) is an autonomous Orthodox Church in France, composed of a single diocese that follows Western Rite Orthodoxy. Though the OCF has been in communion with various canonical Orthodox churches during its history, at present it is not. In 1936, the Russian Orthodox Church received a small group under Louis-Charles (Irénée) Winnaert (1880–1937), under the name l'Eglise Orthodoxe Occidentale (Western Orthodox Church). Evgraph Kovalevsky (-1905–1970) and Denis (Chambault) continued Winnaert's work, with occasional conflict, the latter overseeing a small Orthodox Benedictine community in the rue d'Alleray in Paris. After 1946, Kovalevsky began to restore the Gallican usage based on the letters of Saint Germanus, a sixth-century Bishop of Paris, as well as numerous early non-Roman Western missals and sacramentaries. The restored liturgy, which included some borrowings from the Byzantine tradition, is known as the Divine Liturgy according to St Germanus of Paris. Archimandrite Alexis van der Mensbrugghe was also associated with the Kovalevsky group, desiring the restoration of the ancient Roman rite, replacing medieval accretions with Gallican and Byzantine interpolations, though Alexis remained separate from the OCF. Father Alexis was eventually consecrated a bishop of the Church of Russia's episcopate in 1960, continuing his Western Rite work under the auspices of the Moscow Patriarchate. After some years of isolation, Kovalevsky's group came under the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia between 1959 and 1966. In 1964, Kovalevsky was tonsured as a monk with the name Jean-Nectaire, and consecrated as the first modern Bishop of Saint-Denis. His principal consecrator was St. John (Maximovitch) (the ROCOR's representative in Western Europe at the time). John Maximovitch's death in 1966 was a serious blow to the Western Orthodox Christians in France.
While Moscow's Western Rite mission withered and ended, Bishop Jean's church continued to thrive, however, without canonical protection after St. John's repose. Bishop Jean reposed in 1966, but in 1972, the church found a new canonical superior in the Church of Romania. Gilles Bertrand-Hardy was then tonsured as a monk with the name Germain and consecrated as Bishop of Saint-Denis. In 1993, after long conflict with the Romanian Synod regarding canonical irregularities, the latter withdrew its blessing of the French church and broke communion with OCF. The Romanian Orthodox Church took the decision, which is contested by OCF, to depose Bishop Germain from all sacerdotal functions. This decision (which was never accepted by the OCF) is applied by the canonical dioceses of the AEOF (Assemblée des Evêques Orthodoxes de France). The sanction was confirmed and explained in 2001 by another document, "Avis d'expertise canonique", from the Secretary of the Romanian Synod (a document which the OCF considers to have no value). The Romanian Patriarchate established a deanery under Bishop Germain's brother, Archpriest Gregoire Bertrand-Hardy, to minister to those parishes, which chose to stay with the Romanian Patriarchate. In 2001, after the scandal caused by the revelation inside the church of the marriage of Bishop Germain in 1995 (which was subsequently annulled), ten parishes left the OCF and formed the Union des Associations Cultuelles Orthodoxes de Rite Occidental (UACORO - the Union of Western Rite Orthodox Worship Associations). It began negotiations in 2004 with the Church of Serbia to be canonically recognized, with the intention of the UACORO entering the Diocese of France and Western Europe. The UACORO was received individually, laity and priests, into the French diocese of the Serbian Patriarchate in 2006. [This is not the splinter group headed by a man known as "Bishop Nicholas", to whom Simeon Anderson is attached.]
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Q. What is the meaning of "Pascha?" Dennis Kozlowski (Chicago IL)
A. Pascha, also called Easter, is the feast of the Resurrection of the Lord. Pascha is a transliteration of the Greek word, which is itself a transliteration of the Hebrew "Pesach", both words meaning Passover. The Orthodox Christian world uses "Pascha" to separate itself from the word "Easter" that is derived from the Teutonic pagan goddess Estre, (¥ostre or Ostara). The reason for the different dates of celebration among Western and Eastern Christians is because older Julian calendar's solar calendar is 13 days behind the Gregorian's and its lunar calendar is four to five days behind the Gregorian's. The date of Pascha this year is April 15, 2012, next year: May 5, 2013, and April 20, 2014, the year after that. In response to this ongoing problem, the First Ecumenical Council convened at Nicea in AD 325 took up the issue. It determined that Pascha should be celebrated on the Sunday that follows the first full moon after the vernal equinox-the actual beginning of spring. If the full moon happens to fall on a Sunday, Pascha is observed the following Sunday. The day taken to be the invariable date of the vernal equinox is March 21. Hence, a process dependent on the vernal equinox and the phase of the moon governs the determination of the date of Pascha.
Q. Why is one's patronal name more important than one's date of birth in the Orthodox Christian Church? Martha Mason (St Louis MO)
A. The Orthodox Catholic Church places emphasis on one's name day mostly because of two reasons. (1) The patronal name is taken at one's baptism, which is the spiritual birth of the child or adult into the Christian Faith. (2) The child or adult takes the name of a saint whom he or she will try to emulate in life and have a special spiritual relationship with.
Just as a parish's feast-day is the "second Pascha" for that parish every year, so the Christian's annual name-day is his personal second Pascha. It is a most sacred and joyous day on which he celebrates his very identity as a Christian, his very existence as a living creature and child of God, by glorifying the holy person for whom he is named. It is a day of personal renewal and re-commitment to the vows made at Baptism. It is a day of joy for his family and friends, as they rejoice in their loved one and in the holy person who is his guardian, guide, and help.
Q. Who was St Ephrem of Antioch? John Vargas (Des Moines IA)
A. St Ephrem the Syrian (Aramaic / Syriac: Mor/Mar Afrêm Sûry¥yâ), ca. 306 – 373) was a Syriac and a prolific Syriac-language hymnographer and theologian of the 4th century. Christians venerate him throughout the world, and especially in the Syriac Orthodox Church, as a saint, as well as the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church. St Ephrem wrote a wide variety of hymns, poems, and sermons in verse, as well as prose biblical exegesis. These were works of practical theology for the edification of the church in troubled times. So popular were his works, that, for centuries after his death, Christian authors wrote hundreds of pseudepigraphal works in his name. St Ephrem's works witness to an early form of Christianity in which western ideas take little part. He has been called the most significant of all of the fathers of the Syriac-speaking church tradition.
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DOMESTIC PARISHES & PRAYER GROUPS
The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Archdiocese of the Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church, like other small Orthodox jurisdictions, realizes that there are members who live far away from the nearest parish to them. In some cases, there are 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 those 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 an existing parish 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, Chapels, and Prayer Groups 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 the parish attached to uniting them to it in good standing. For further information contact His Excellency Bishop Timothy at rbsocc@juno.com or St Nicholas Center, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. If you are interested in assisting the Archdiocese in establishing a mission parish in your area, please write to us.
ORDINATIONS
Elevations
MONASTIC RECEPTIONS + PROFESSION OF VOWS
- Brother Vincent Cappabianca CSB admitted to the novitiate of the Community of St Basil on Sunday June 10, 2012 at St Nicholas Chapel in Sharon Pennsylvania. His Eminence Archbishop Timothy officiated in the presence of His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.
APPOINTMENTS & ASSIGNMENTS
- Brother Vincent Cappabianca will serve as Chief Assistant Chancellor of the Archdiocese with oversight of Archdiocesan Files and Communications. This becomes effective on April 11, 2012.
- Father Seraphim Kanagaratnam of Kuala Lumpur Malaysia assigned to St Nicholas Center of Sharon Pennsylvania effective May 23, 2012 by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.
- Father Seraphim James Reed assigned to the Mission of St Stephen Protomartyr as pastor in Hemet California, effective April 17, 2012 by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy (Kjera).
- Very Reverend Archimandrite Padraig Kneafsey appointed Vicar of Ireland and the United Kingdom on April 2, 2012 by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen. He was elevated to the rank of Archimandrite by His Beatitude.
- Rt Reverend Chorbishop Haralambos Winger appointed Interim Chancellor of the Archdiocese by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen on Saturday February 1, 2012. His Chancery Office will be located in Anchorage Alaska.
OFFICIAL FROM HOLY METROPOLIS
REVISED LITURGIKON – (03.01.12.1) The Holy Metropolis will have completed the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite of the Liturgy (Mass) of St Gregory and Liturgikon. Clergy are encouraged to order this newly revised Liturgikon by April 19, 2012. It also contains the Rite of Benediction, Mystery of Confession (Penance), Morning Prayer, and other services. The Liturgikon will be added to without charge as necessary and when new additions are completed until completed in full. Contact the Archdiocese at . The cost for the 2012 Liturgikon is $175.00 and payable to "EOCC." This new Liturgikon supercedes all previous ones and is the official Liturgikon of the Holy Metropolis.
ANNUAL DAY OF COMMEMORATION – (09.17.11.1) Ordered by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen V Primate of the Church - St Julius of Goa, Archbishop (B. April 29, 1836 - D. September 23, 1923) will be commemorated annually by the Liturgy of the Mass in all parishes. Our jurisdiction has much to be proud of. St Julius of Goa, Archbishop, should have a place in the hearts of all that belong to the Malankara and Syriac-Greek Antiochian jurisdictions. 120 years ago it was from the saintly hands of St Mar Julius of Goa that Archbishop Timotheos Vilathi became our first Archbishop Primate in the United States. May their memories be eternal. We, too, shall celebrate his eternal reward on September 23 annually along with the Malankara Goan Diocese. May he protect us all who call upon him to intercede for us to God.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Baptisms & Chrismations:
- Zachary Michael Battiato was chrismated into the Orthodox Catholic Church on Sunday February 12, 2012 by Bishop Timothy at St Nicholas Chapel in Sharon Pennsylvania. His godfather is Christopher Andonian.
Prayers Requested:
- Tiffany Rae Green the daughter of Drs Mark & Jana Green of Broken Arrow OK. She has been hospitalized for a serious illness. Please pray for her and her son Brayden.
INCARDINATIONS PENDING / APPROVED
REINSTATEMENT OF FACULTIES
- Father Gorgi Pacemski from the Macedonian Orthodox Church. (Pending since 02/12)
PAROCHIAL CHARTERS
Established:
- Holy Nativity of Our Lord Mission, Iganga Uganda (11.28.11)
- St Anthony of Egypt Mission, Hubbard OH (03.01.12)
- St Moses the Ethiopian Mission, Tanzania (03.09.11)
- St Stephen Protomartyr Mission of Hemet California (04.16.12)
Dissolved:
- St Cyril of Alexandria Parish of Salem-Winston NC (03.03.12)
DISCIPLINARY MATTERS
- Steven Matthew Johnson of St Cloud Minnesota is a defrocked priest of the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Archdiocese who is still using his title and dressing as a priest. Please be advised that he was defrocked due to very serious reasons and the Holy Metropolis has not lifted this action.
PRAY FOR THE SICK AND SUFFERING
- His Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Zakka I of Antioch
- His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen (Ohio)
- His Eminence Archbishop Timothy (Pennsylvania)
- His Eminence Archbishop Anthony (New York)
- Chorbishop Haralambos Winger (Alaska)
- Chorbishop Kuriakos Thottupuram (Illinois)
- VR Archpriest Thomas Dillon (New Jersey)
- Archdeacon John DeMeis (New York)
- Father Sebastian Robles (Canada)
- Father Paul Jensen (Texas)
- Father Seraphim Kanagaratnam CSB (Malaysia)
- Father Luis Nazario CSB (Puerto Rico)
- Father Padraig Kneafsey CSB (Ireland)
- Father Patrick Lemming (Tennessee)
- Father Vladimir Raasch (Minnesota)
- Rev Mother Helena (Bofey) SSB (African Congo)
- Sister Anna of the Convent of the Holy Virgin Mary (California)
- Sister Katherine (California)
- Brother Vincenzo Cappabianca CSB (Pennsylvania)
- Seminarian Cyril Shazad (Pakistan)
- Mr Joseph Saul (Pennsylvania)
- Ms Tiffany Rae Green (Oklahoma)
- Mr Maximus Donald Seipke (Minnesota)
- Dr Joseph Bannon DCh (California)
- Mrs Gretchen Lejeune (Texas)
- Mr Hampton Bumgarner (New Jersey)
- Mr Brandon Green (Oklahoma)
- Mr Dominic Winger (Alaska)
- Mr Vincent Colombo (Indiana)
- Dr Audrey Daniel DCh (South Carolina)
- Dr Marge Ebeling DCh (Arizona)
- Mrs Sherry Ellison (South Carolina)
- Mr Omar Esquilin (Ohio)
- Mr Andrew Lucas (Illinois)
- Mr Alexi J Mason (Arizona)
- Mr Carl Maus (Maryland)
- Dr Karla VonEhrenkrook DCh (Arizona)
- Ms Sandra Wiechnik (Indiana)
- Mr Howard Youngheim (Indiana)
- For our Armed Forces everywhere who are suffering, injured, or who have lost their lives protecting the freedom of others, and their families.
- For those suffering in Syria, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, and all countries where citizens are fighting for their freedom, lives, and a positive change in their governments.
- For all our God-loving Bishops, Priests, Deacons, Seminarians, Monks, and Nuns, both living and dead, especially our Most Reverend Primate, Metropolitan Stephen, that they will all have good health and many years!
Note: If you, or someone you know, is sick or suffering, please let us know and you (or they) will be added to the OCH Prayer List. Send full name, address, and age. Thank you.
REST IN PEACE!
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III of the Coptic Orthodox Church passed into the Glory of God on March 17, 2012 at the age of 88. The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church sends its most sincere prayers and condolences to the Coptic Orthodox Synod of Bishops, and all the clergy and faithful of the Coptic Orthodox Church. May he rest in peace!
Joseph Bianco of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania cousin of Metropolitan Stephen, son of the Jim (deceased) and Jean Bianco, passed away on December 19, 2011. May his soul rest in peace.
The Church remembers all those who have been killed in the defense of their country, especially those belonging to United States Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines. May you find reward and peace in the kingdom of Heaven, and in the warmth of Our Lord's palms. Rest Eternal!
MAKING OF THE BURSHANAI AND ANTIDORO (BLESSED BREAD)
Article Repeated
For the Holy Liturgy of the Mass, the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Archdiocese has adopted the tradition of the Syriac Patriarchate of Antioch for making the "prosphora or burshanai" used at Liturgy. The priest, or another appointed, makes the bread to be used at Holy Liturgy of the Mass on Saturday afternoon to bring to the Prothesis Table that evening for the Proskomide Service. The recipe used comes from the tradition used by the Syriac Patriarchate of Antioch. There are two larger burshanais made and then the smaller balls that are consumed by the people at Holy Communion. One large burshanai later is consecrated and referred to as the "Lamb" which is taken by the priest(s) at Holy Communion. This is stamped with a seal that has "IC XC NIKA" upon it. The second one which is larger than the previous one is used for antidoro (blessed bread) at the end of Liturgy to give to the people. This one is stamped with a seal containing an etching of the Blessed Virgin Mary upon it. All are made from the same recipe. It must be silent when baking the burshanais except for prayer or chanting. The place where this is to be done should be clean and the surface where it is prepared clean. Hands should be washed before beginning.
- 3 cups of flour;
- 1 and ¼ cups of warm water;
- 6 tablespoons olive oil;
- 1 teaspoon of yeast;
- ½ teaspoon of sugar; and
- 1 dash of salt (one sprinkle).
The Recipe:
Mix them all together until they become one ball. Cover with a cloth for 1 hour. Punch down and form into small balls, larger flattened one for Lamb and another even larger one for antidoro. There should be sufficient number of small balls for those receiving Holy Communion. The larger one for Lamb is to be at least 3" in diameter to accommodate the seal. The antidoro is to be about 8" in diameter (or larger depending on the size of congregation) with the seal of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the middle. This one, after baked, is cut into small squares but the image of the Virgin Mary is not cut but is broken and eaten by the clergy. These are to be baked at 400 degrees in the middle of the oven until golden brown but not until hard where it cracks. A cross is traced on top of the burshanai using a knife on all the small balls.
While kneading the bread the following is said:
"He was oppressed and he was afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; like a lamb that is led to slaughter, and like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, so he did not open his mouth. By oppression and judgment he was taken away; and as for his generation, who considered that he was cut off out of the land of the living, for the transgression of my people to whom the stroke was due? His grave was assigned with wicked men, yet he was with a rich man in his death, because he had done no violence, nor was there any deceit in his mouth." (Isaiah 53: 7-9)
When making the large Burshanai (Lamb), say:
"
I am that bread of life. 49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. 50 This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. 51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. 52 The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? 53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except you eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, you have no life in you. 54 Whoso eats my flesh, and drinks my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 56 He that eats my flesh, and drinks my blood, dwells in me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eats me, even he shall live by me. 58 This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eats of this bread shall live for ever." (John 6:48-58)When making the smaller round Burshanais, say:
"Then the LORD God formed man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being." And God created man to his own image: to the image of God he created him: male and female he created them. (Genesis. 2:7)
When making the antidoro, say:
"Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and make a careful search for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him." After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route." — (Matthew 2:1-12)
UNORTHODOX BEHAVIOR RATLES RUSSIAN CHURCH
By Courtney Weaver in Moscow
April 13, 2012
Yuri Shevchenko, a retired doctor and health minister, never imagined he would be fighting a $1m Russian lawsuit that would see his bank accounts frozen, his grown son forced to move back home and travel restrictions imposed on him so he could not travel abroad for cancer treatment. He also never imagined that the claimant in the suit would be a woman with such deep connections to the Russian patriarch. Lidiya Leonova, a laywoman, claims that dust from renovation work in Mr Shevchenko's Moscow flat wreaked Rbs26m ($900,000) worth of damage to her own flat upstairs. While Ms Leonova is registered in the flat and initiated the suit, the flat belongs to Kirill I, the patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The scandal is one of several to envelop the Russian Orthodox Church, as the institution faces increasingly serious allegations of corruption and criticism for its role in Russian politics. Last week bloggers discovered that a photograph of the patriarch on the church's website had been altered to remove a $30,000 Breguet watch from the churchman's wrist. While someone had used Photoshop to erase the offending object, they had forgotten to erase the watch's reflection on a nearby mahogany table.
The church has been criticised for its harsh response to Pussy Riot, the feminist punk rock group whose young members are facing seven-year jail sentences for staging an impromptu performance inside a Moscow church, and its public support for Vladimir Putin despite mass protests. On a more troubling scale, there is the history of Mr Shevchenko's flat, as well as a land dispute in southern Moscow that has disadvantaged hundreds of children with severe cerebral palsy who are being treated at a local centre. The church argues that all the allegations are part of a smear campaign ahead of the Russian Orthodox Easter, which is celebrated this Sunday. Vsevolod Chaplin, the church's spokesman, is flippant about the watch incident – he scoffs that people will take issue with the patriarch's boots or glasses next. But he gets serious when it comes to the other allegations. "The church, to a greater extent, is trying to speak with its full voice on issues connected with economics, politics, culture and social life, and a lot of people don't like this."
Father Andrei Kuraev, a priest who has spoken out in defense of Pussy Riot, argues that many members of the church are enjoying the soap opera nature of the allegations. "A lot of people look at the patriarch as being the same as they are and they get some kind of pleasure out of watching the mighty fall," he says. While media reports have suggested that Ms Leonova might have enjoyed an inappropriate relationship with the patriarch, the church vehemently denies this. Mr Chaplin says she is the church leader's cousin and stays there while the patriarch lives in his official residence. "There is nothing unusual in that either from the point of view of church law or secular law." Head of the church since January 2009, Kirill I has cut a dividing figure in his efforts to expand the church's role in Russian society. Born in Leningrad, he started out as a young member of the Communist party, before joining the church, as his father and grandfather had done, and eventually rising to become the archbishop of Smolensk and Kaliningrad. While the recent scandals are the most serious he has faced in his career, they are not the first. In the 1990s, he was accused of profiteering from church tax breaks on imported alcohol and tobacco, in a scheme that was eventually killed in 1997. Separately he has also been accused of being an ex-KGB member. The patriarch has denied both allegations. The church leader has been a strong supporter of the Kremlin: earlier this year he referred to the Putin era as a "miracle of God". Ms Leonova's claims include Rbs7.3m to renovate her flat, Rbs2.1m to rent a similar one in Moscow during the renovation period and Rbs6.3m to replace the flat's books alone. Valuing Mr Shevchenko's flat at Rbs15m, versus the market price of Rbs50m-Rbs60m, Ms Leonova's lawyers were able to freeze the Shevchenko family's bank accounts and prevent the former minister from travelling abroad. Mr Shevchenko's 39-year-old son, a lawyer, was forced to sell his St Petersburg flat to cover the costs and move in with his parents in Moscow.
The younger Mr Shevchenko, also named Yuri, says that when the family first learnt who the owner of the upstairs flat was, their thought was: "Thank God it's the patriarch." But their relief has turned to horror. While the son is reluctant to say anything negative about the church ahead of Easter, he is adamant that his family has been the victim. "What disturbs me is not the issue with the watch or who owns the apartment. What disturbs me is that this process has driven my parents mad. My father is sick, my mother has been working on these legal processes for about three years. And the fact that this coincides with such aggressive lobbying . . . This sort of ploy has elements of sadism." On Friday the family were allowed access to their flat again after they paid Ms Leonova a reduced sum of Rbs20m so that their bank cards could be unfrozen. For a long time, Mr Shevchenko says neither he nor his father could believe that the patriarch knew about the case. Then last week they learnt the truth. In an interview with a Kremlin-friendly journalist, the patriarch admitted he was acquainted with the proceedings. The Rbs20m would go to charity, the church leader said.
On top of the flat scandal, the Church has separately come under fire for its treatment of sick children at a cerebral palsy center outside Moscow. As part of a land dispute, a Russian Orthodox monastery has restricted access to the path that connects two of the hospital's wings, forcing the children, many of whom are in wheelchairs, to take a 1.5km-long route instead. The monastery has also laid claims to the land beneath one of the buildings, raising concerns that the hospital will be forced to pay rent to the monastery that would otherwise go towards treatment. Asked about the situation, Marina Tikhomirova is moved to tears. She and her daughter, Tanya, who has been living at the centre since 1998, have long looked to the church, and the monastery specifically, for solace. "For believers, for charitable people, it was ungodly, it was very offensive. The children are sick and it's hard to talk about it without tears," she says. "We don't see any charity from the church in this situation." While Yevgeny Lilin, the centre's deeply religious director, says he believes that the patriarch could not know anything of their situation, Elena Kamchatnya, another mother, disagrees, noting that the chain of responsibility goes straight to the top. "[The patriarch] he sees and observes all of this with his own eyes," she says angrily. Mr Chaplin maintains that the land in question is the monastery's "by law and by fairness". "No one is preparing to kick the children out," he adds.
FINANCIAL SCANDAL IN THE ORTHODOX CHURCH IN AMERICA
Misuse of Church Donations
Formerly Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church, Russian Orthodox Church, and also known as the "American Orthodox Church"
From Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia
The financial scandal in the Orthodox Church in America was a significant crisis of governance that shook the leadership of the OCA from 2005 to 2008. In the autumn of 2005, its former treasurer, Protodeacon Eric Wheeler, publicly accused the OCA administration of financial misconduct. Wheeler has alleged that millions of dollars in donations to the church were improperly used for personal expenses or to cover shortfalls in Church accounts. In response to these allegations, Metropolitan Herman announced in March 2006 that the law firm of Proskauer Rose LLP had been hired to conduct an internal legal investigation, and an accounting firm to conduct audits. On March 16, 2006 Metropolitan Herman announced the dismissal of the church's chancellor, Protopresbyter Robert S. Kondratick.
At a December 2006 joint meeting of the OCA's Holy Synod of Bishops and Metropolitan Council, information concerning the investigation results to date was presented. The presentation confirmed earlier allegations of financial abuse and a lack of internal financial controls, and the trial of the former OCA chancellor. The investigation into the alleged wrongdoings in the OCA administration led to the trial of the former OCA chancellor, Fr. Robert S. Kondratick, by the Spiritual Court and to his subsequent deposition from priesthood by the Holy Synod on July 31, 2007. On September 3, 2008, the Special Investigative Committee of the OCA released a 32-page report on a recent OCA scandal. The report was presented to the Holy Synod and Metropolitan Council. The report found "an incredible failure at many levels to act responsibly".[6] It also recommended "discipline" for 5 individuals. These individuals were former Metropolitans Herman (Swaiko) and Theodosius (Lazor), and two former treasurers and a former comptroller.
Section III.C.19 of the report gives a tantalizing hint about the source of Kondratick's power. It states, "Several interviewees claimed that a significant source of Kondratick's apparent power over members of the HS [Holy Synod] and other clergy was his knowledge of their alleged personal moral failings, specifically with chemical addictions and sexual improprieties." The report goes on to say, "At least three sources informed the SIC [Special Investigative Committee] that both metropolitans, Metropolitan Theodosius and Metropolitan Herman, affirmed that Kondratick had blackmailable material of a sexual nature about each of them." The report recommended that Metropolitan Herman resigns, retires or is defrocked. Before the report was released, Metropolitan Herman requested a medical leave of absence. The Metropolitan Council requested that the Holy Synod deny the request. On September 4, 2008, the former metropolitan Herman voluntarily retired from his position as Metropolitan of the Orthodox Church in America. After the voluntary resignation of former Metropolitan Herman, the OCA elected a new primate during its 15th All-American Council in November 2008. This new primate, Metropolitan Jonah (Paffhausen), was elected just eleven days after his own consecration as a bishop. During the council, Metropolitan Jonah gave a speech that many regarded as gaining for him the position of Metropolitan. In this speech he directly addressed the controversies in the OCA. After his election, he vowed changes and a departure from the direction he believed the financial scandal was taking the OCA. For months after his election, he proved to be an active primate, visiting many American Orthodox churches, and improving relations with other Jurisdictions/Primates, including the late Patriarch Alexy II of Moscow and his successor, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow.
References
PENNSYLVANIA DOES NOT RESPECT 501(C)3 STATUS OF CHURCHES Syriac-Greek Archdiocese Churches go through many hoops and have to furnish a myriad of information and documents to
become tax-exempt by the Internal Revenue Service. In most states, when a Church establishes a parish, school, monastery, et cetera, you file abatement for taxes and that's about it. The
Syriac-Greek Antiochian Archdiocese established a monastery house that cares for homeless men in Sharon Pennsylvania and found out that all they had been use to in other states does not apply in
Pennsylvania. A church or religious establishment is not tax-exempt until proven worthy of this right by the State! The State of Pennsylvania requires that a church or religious institution must go before a
judge to be declared "tax-exempt" before it is. This can take about a year during which time the religious entity pays taxes whether they want to or not. Regardless of what the federal view may be,
and contrary to what other states may do, in Pennsylvania the Church does not have this right until they go to Court. They also have the right to declare what is or is not a church!
The First Amendment (Amendment I) to the United States Constitution is part of the Bill of Rights. The amendment prohibits the making of any law respecting an establishment of religion, impeding the
free exercise of religion, abridging the freedom of speech, infringing on the freedom of the press, interfering with the right to peaceably assemble or prohibiting the petitioning for a governmental
redress of grievances. With regard to "taxation" the U.S. Supreme Court stated in Lemon v. Kurtzman in 1971 that non-taxation of churches is undergirded by "more than 200 years of virtually
universal practice imbedded in our colonial experience and continuing into the present." Here is why: There is a distinction between constitutionally separate "sovereigns." For one sovereign entity to tax
another leaves the taxed one subservient to that authority. This is true both in the symbolic statement of paying the tax and in the practical effect of supporting the sovereign party. So, in our constitutional
structure, states may not tax each other, and they may not tax property of the federal government. The District of Columbia does not tax the property owned by foreign governments, and New York
does not tax the property owned by the United Nations. So, too, churches in America are not subservient (subordinate) to the government. The First
Amendment to the Constitution requires that "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." The Constitution prevents the government from
wielding its authority to control churches. Churches in this way differ from all other businesses and organizations. They are a unique institution whose existence is not derived from government authority,
nor even from governmental acknowledgment. Churches preceded the birth of our nation and will remain long after its death. They transcend geographic and ethnic boundaries. While the Church is not
subservient to the government, neither is the government subservient to the Church. Although government can aid or support virtually all types of social or educational institutions which have a
public purpose with the use of tax money, the Supreme Court stated in 1948 that "no tax in any amount, large or small, can be levied to support any religious activities or institutions." Thomas
Jefferson coined the highly referenced "wall of separation" between church and state (but not in the Constitution, as many people assume). The separation he referred to must be bilateral and reciprocal.
Whatever the degree of separation required by the Constitution, it is surely this: the government may not make the Church subservient by taxing its existence.
In Walz v. Tax Commission, the Supreme Court noted that the Church's "uninterrupted freedom from taxation" has "operated affirmatively to help guarantee the free exercise of all forms of religious belief."
The much-misunderstood "separation between church and state" is in truth designed to restrict the sovereignty of each over the other. That is, it is designed to achieve a position for each that is neither
master nor servant of the other. Exemption from income taxation is essential for respect of the Church as a separate sovereign entity. Otherwise the government has the power to encumber and even
terminate churches if such taxes are not punctually paid or cannot be so paid in full. Indeed, as the high court noted many years ago, "the power to tax involves the power to destroy." The fact that the
Constitution mandates a tax exemption for Churches is one of the best reasons why Churches are not taxed. CONTRACEPTION CONTROVERSY
Manhattan Declaration Online Newsletter – March 2012 Any paper you pick up or TV shows you turn on will talk about the "contraception controversy."
That's how the media and the "reproductive rights" crowd have framed the Obama Administration's outrageous demand that religious organizations violate the tenets of their faith by offering insurance to
their employees that covers abortion-inducing drugs and sterilization. But all you ever hear from newsmen or politicians is that this is all about contraception. And sadly, according to the polls
anyway, they've been successful in shaping the argument. Friends, this controversy is NOT about contraception. It is about the ability of the government to limit the free exercise of our religion. This is
a religious liberty question. I've gone out of my way in conversations with people to straighten them out on this, and it immediately changes their point of view. What's really at stake here is whether the
executive branch of the government can enforce administrative orders that violate the Constitution and trample upon the Bill of Rights. If Christians are to do anything in the public square today, it is to raise
the rallying cry of freedom. Remember freedom is the created condition of humans made in the image of God, who Himself is free. This is being taken away from us right under our noses.
If you and every single signer would explain this issue in simple terms to your neighbors, we would turn the polls around. This is a winning issue for us, but only if we do not allow the other side to frame
the debate. Please, talk to your friends. Visit the Manhattan Declaration website to read more about the issue. We've even posted a couple of my BreakPoint commentaries that deal with this. The case
is simple; it is not about contraception. It is about religious liberty, the first of all our freedoms. God bless you! Please let us hear from you. For more information go to: www.manhattandeclaration.org Notable signatories include New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan, Philadelphia Archbishop Justin Francis Rigali, Washington Archbishop Donald Wuerl, Oakland Bishop Salvatore Cordileone, and
American Cardinal John Patrick Foley of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. Others are Family Research Council president Tony Perkins, Focus on the Family founder James
Dobson, Acton Institute president Rev. Robert A. Sirico, president of Asbury Theological Seminary Timothy C. Tennent, president of Cornerstone University Joseph M. Stowell, III, president of
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Al Mohler. Chancellor of Dallas Theological Seminary Chuck Swindoll, president of Houston Baptist University Robert B. Sloan Jr., president of the Alliance of
Confessing Evangelicals Ligon Duncan,[10] National Association of Evangelicals president Leith Anderson, primate of the Anglican Church in North America Robert Wm. Duncan. Orthodox Church
in America primate Metropolitan Jonah (Paffhausen), with Bishops Mark (Maymon) of Toledo and Basil (Essey) of Wichita of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America. Yours and His service, Chuck Colson Editor's Note: His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen (Thomas) also signed this Declaration on behalf of the
Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church. HOMELESS PROGRAM NEEDS DONATIONS
[Sharon Pennsylvania] St Nicholas Center offers homeless men a home and guidance in return for work on the grounds. This program of the Archdiocese has helped over fifty men in the last four
years. Nine of these men have been chrismated into the Orthodox Catholic Church coming from pasts that did not include any church affiliation. Currently, several men are being cared for at St Sophia's
that includes their room, food, their prescriptions, toiletries, personal needs, the outings they enjoy, and the new life they have found centered on Christ. However, this is costing the Archdiocese much
money and we are now brought to our knees asking for your assistance. We are in need of donations here so that our work started can continue. In addition to the homeless, we have also adopted seven
kittens/cats that were destined to die without intervention. If you can find it in your heart to help with our expenses please send you donation to St Nicholas Center, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA
16146, or you may do so on your credit card through PayPal. Please make checks payable to "EOCC." We are 501(c)(3) tax exempt. Thank you.
HELP FORM MISSION PARISHES & PRAYER GROUPS The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Archdiocese of the Orthodox Catholic Church, like other small
Orthodox jurisdictions, realizes that there are members who live far away from the nearest parish to them. In some cases, there are 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 those 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 an existing parish 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, Chapels, and Prayer Groups 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 the parish attached to uniting them to it in good standing. For further information contact His Eminence Archbishop Timothy at or 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. If you are
interested in assisting the Archdiocese in establishing a mission parish in your area, please write to us. DONATIONS TO THE METROPOLIA
"Giving to Glorify God" (Matthew 6: 1-4). The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Metropolis would like to thank the following for their generosity and love shown to God and His
Church. Those wishing their names withheld are shown as "Anonymous." Those not wanting their location known are left blank. Donation statements upon request. You are asked to consider a
donation to help the Metropolia with all its missions and programs by sending yours to the Metropolis, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146; or by using your credit card to make a donation through PayPal. All donations are tax-deductible. Please make your check out to "EOCC." Those making a
donation will receive a gift made by parishioners of St Paul Church in Uganda. Our appreciation to the following for their support and Paschal Donation:
Advertise in the HeraldYou 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 3,000 people and growing.
Framed Icon of St Panteleimon, Patron of Healers Available from the Archdiocesan Chancery, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146, these icons are 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. Meal Blessing Cards
For clergy, monasteries, and homes of the faithful and include the variations for holy days. Order from Holy Myrrhbearers Monastery, 144 Bert Washburn Road, Otego NY 13825. Handmade Nun Dolls from the Past
Handmade nun dolls from the past. Full habits of many orders of nuns from various Churches including Orthodox, 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 a catalog or additional information to Father
Patrick Lemming, St James House, 804 Catlett Road, Sevierville TN 37862. Religious Articles Hand-Made Prayer Beads from Uganda. Made of good quality materials and
most beautifully done, coming in 50 ($15.00) and 100 beads ($25.00). For more information and prices on other items please write to St Nicholas Center, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146.
ANTIOCHIAN PARISHES AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE ARCHDIOCESE Archdiocese of the Americas & Dependencies - Write to His Eminence Archbishop Timothy, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146.
Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing CRCH.RBSOCC.ORG For information write - Archbishop Timothy, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. This is an organization for licensed
healing professionals in service to God. They serve 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 the Moderator, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. Community of St Basil
is open to those who wish to follow a monastic way of life. Write to Community of St Basil, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. The Community has monastic centers
in the African Congo, Nigeria, Alaska (USA), and Pennsylvania (USA). The Sisters of St Basil are headquartered in the African Congo. His Eminence Archbishop Timothy is the interim Archabbot.
All Saints Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 2216 Culver Avenue, Anchorage Alaska, Chorbishop Haralambos Winger, Pastor. All Saints of Ireland Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Parish
, County Cork Ireland; Father Padraig Kneafsey, Pastor. Holy Ghost Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, Oceanside California, Very Reverend Archpriest Stephen Lawrence, Pastor.
St Andrew the Apostle Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church located at 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth Minnesota 55807. Sunday Liturgy: 10:30 A.M. To reopen later in 2011.
Ss Cosmas and Damian Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 785 Grand Avenue #206, Carlsbad California. Very Reverend Archpriest Stephen Lawrence, Pastor.
St George the Great Martyr Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Parish, Pueblo Colorado, Fr Deacon Thomas Monroe, Administrator. St Luke the Physician Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Mission Parish,
VR Father Paul Jensen, Pastor, 339 NE 8th Street, Paris Texas 75450. St Nicholas of Myra Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA
16146. Sunday Liturgy of the Mass at 11:00 a.m.; Holy Days at 7:00 p.m. or as announced; and Holy Unction of the Sick on First Wednesday of Month at 7:00 p.m. Ss Vladimir & Olga Chapel
, St Paul Minnesota. Father Vladimir Raasch. (Send email to Chancery for more information. This mission is not under the omophor of the Archdiocese, but is in association with it. HEALTH, HEALING, & WELLNESS SECTION BOTANICAL BOMB TAKES OUT CANCER!!! By NHD HEALTH WATCH Congress is killing the ONE CURE the world has been waiting for. Imagine you or a loved one is
entrenched in a ruthless battle against cancer. At the last second you find a simple, cheap and most importantly, effective weapon to give you the edge. But suddenly, some spineless, clueless, gutless
senator from Capitol Hill wants to take away the one thing that has given you hope. Why do they want to take away a miracle that could slow the growth of prostate cancer...skyrocket your body's
own killer cells and virtually eradicate breast cancer cells? It's safe. It's natural. So what's the hang-up? The answer will send you into an OUTRAGE. Find out the reason and more importantly,
how you can get this miracle for yourself while still available! All-Natural "Killer" Targets Cancer - There's good news on the cancer front. An all-natural flower
extract kills cancer cells...without harmful side effects. The news comes from Professor Laurence Patterson. He's the director of the UK Institute for Cancer Therapeutics (ICT). He also leads cancer
research for the University of Bradford in England. "Many agents used in the treatment of cancer are poisons," he says. "Chemotherapy can be the death of a patient." But this new flower extract
treatment is different. It targets cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. And it works for many types of cancer. "It's a new treatment that could be effective against pretty much all types of
tumor," he says. "And it will not cause damage to normal tissue." Other cancer experts are supporting his findings, which are published in the journal Cancer Research.
"This new approach targets tumor blood vessels that cancers need for growth," says Dr. Paul Workman, who leads the cancer research department for the University of London. "The results look promising,"
says Dr. Workman. "This approach could be very useful for various cancers." Natural Extract Wipes Out 70 Percent of Cancer Cells." Prof. Patterson's tests were conducted
on mice specially bred to display human cancerous tumors. These mice were then injected with the natural extract...and the results were impressive. The extract killed 70 percent of cancer cells after one
dose. Tumors in all of the mice shrank significantly. And in half the mice, the tumors were completely eliminated. Prof. Patterson and his team then tested the extract against different types of cancer. It
worked on them all, without any harmful side effects. "We've looked at colon, prostate, breast and lung (cancer) so far, and all have responded very well to this treatment," he says.
How the "Killer" Extract Works - The extract comes from a flower called the autumn crocus. These flowers contain a compound called colchicine. Colchicine is a naturally occurring poison that's been
shown in various studies to have anti-cancer properties. But it's never been used to treat cancer. Why? Because, until now, it's been too poisonous to use. But Prof. Patterson has found a way to
deliver the poison to the cancerous cells without killing the healthy ones around them. He did this by attaching a molecular protein "tail" to it. The tail keeps the compound safe and inactive as it travels
through the body. However, the chemical tail breaks off when the compound comes into contact with a very particular enzyme found in high concentration in cancerous tumors. This enzyme activates the
cancer-killing colchicine - which then attacks blood vessels within the tumor, cutting off the supply of nutrients and shutting down cell growth. "Our delivery method attacks and breaks down cancer
blood vessels, destroying the tumor's lifeline," says Prof. Patterson. "If you starve the tumor of that blood supply, then you shut off its ability to grow."
Hope for the Future - So far, these tests have only been done on mice, and while the research is encouraging, it's still preliminary. The novel use of this compound needs to be tested on humans next.
And researchers at St. James's University Hospital, England, are already preparing to do this. If the human trials support the findings, the way doctors fight cancer could change for the better. The
scientists behind this study believe that a solution could be on the market within five years. We'll be sure to follow these trials and keep you updated on the results. In the meantime, the best way to
"treat" cancer is to prevent it from happening in the first place. That means avoiding exposure to toxins and known carcinogens, including chemical-based personal products, pesticides and food additives,
like sodium nitrite in processed deli meat. Of course, if you smoke, quit. And keep your body in balance and your immune system strong by eating an organic diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods.
But diet is the not the only way to strengthen your immunity. Be sure to enjoy some time in the sun as often as possible. Volumes of research show that your risk of cancer is much lower when you can
optimize your levels of vitamin D. Finally, there's one more thing you need to know: Short duration, high intensity exercise is also a powerful immune booster. We'll bring you more information on all
these topics in future issues and we'll continue to keep you posted on the latest promising cancer research as it happens. Wishing you good natural health, Ian Robinson, THE HEART DISEASE SCAM THAT GENERATES OVER By NHD "Health Watch"
Each year over one million Americans opt for coronary angioplasty. 427,000 Americans have open heart surgery. And US doctors write 11.6 million prescriptions for statin drugs each month. But
overwhelming research-from respected medical institutions like Stanford University and Harvard Medical School-reveals evidence that these treatments are money-making scams that do more harm
than good. The NHD research team has prepared an in-depth report that exposes this mainstream medical scam... and reveals how you can slash your heart disease risk without surgery, drugs, or
conventional medical intervention. Learn all the details here right now. You are receiving this e-mail as a part of your free subscription to the NHD "Health Watch" e-letter. NHD "Health Watch" is a free
health newsletter brought to you by Natural Health Dossier. For more about Natural Health Dossier health research and publications, visit our home page.
NHD "Health Watch" is dedicated to delivering the most trusted and comprehensive health guidance in the world. We're your one-stop destination for the latest happenings and developments in natural
health. It's our business to provide you with the very best guidance on health research, findings, and products. Because we are a for-profit publication, we include advertising copy in each issue and send
our readers advertisements we approve of. When our editors like and use advertised products, we talk about their features and benefits in our editorial. Readers should be assured that although we may
have a financial interest in a product we talk about, we will never recommend anything we don't believe in. Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug
Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. NHD 819 N Charles St © 2012 Fourth Avenue Health Group, LLC. All Right Reserved. NHD " Health Watch" may be republished with
its links intact by non commercial entities. NHD "Health Watch" may not be republished for commercial purposes without written permission. LOSING WEIGHT NATURALLY – "ADIPONECTIN"
By Steven Sisskind, M.D. For more information call: 800.542.4286 --- For full video go to the following link:
Natural Solutions Foundation" <dr.laibow@gmail.com Ever heard of adiponectin? It's a recently discovered hormone - just 11 little letters - that can quickly
multiply your body's ability to "metabolize" your midsection away. This video explains it all. 4 Simple Steps That Double Your Metabolism...
When you watch that video, you'll discover exactly why nearly every single approach - from dieting, to exercise programs and beyond - FALLS FLAT in helping you drop excess weight. And that's
because little-known hormones - particularly adiponectin - are among the very deepest, most essential factors for safe, natural, effortless weight management.
The more adiponectin you have in your body, the faster those excess pounds will disappear. This video shows you what it is, why it works, and how to get more of it. Step 2 in this video helps you
reduce the "hungry hormone" that causes your cravings to spin out of control and overeat. Nobody else talks about this.
The Natural Solutions Foundation does not necessarily endorse every product and piece of information that that appears in these dedicated emails, but we seek to counter the FDA and FTC's
attempts to censor health information by bringing as much information to you as we find reasonably credible. We have a great deal more faith in you than the FDA does. In this way, we assert all of our
Expressive Association rights with regard to information about health and food. This email was sent to rbsocc@juno.com by dr.laibow@gmail.com. Mailing address:
Natural Solutions Foundation COMMON DRUGSTORE PILL INCREASES CANCER By Ian Robinson, Editorial Director for NHD "Health Watch"
Five-Year Study Looks at 34,000 People. The research team set out to determine if sleeping pills are as harmless as people seem to think. The study looked at a total of 34,000 people across five
years. The team focused on about 10,000 people who used sleeping pills, compared to a control group of 24,000 patients. To increase accuracy, they made sure that both groups shared the same
age, gender, health, and lifestyle profiles. The results clearly showed a much higher incidence of cancer for the people taking the sleeping pills. Dr. Robert Langer, a co-author of the study, says, "We
tried every practical strategy to make these associations go away, thinking that they could be due to use by people with more health problems." "No matter what we did, the associations held," he says.
In fact, the rates of cancer were 35 percent higher for the people who took sleeping pills, compared to those who didn't. The study showed that all of the eight most common sleeping pills increased
cancer rates, including the popular drugs, Ambien and Lunesta. The results were published in the prestigious British Medical Journal. So why would sleeping pills cause cancer? No one really knows
yet, because the research is so new. But Dr. Kripke does have a theory. "These drugs break certain chromosomes, which is a well-known specific chemical mechanism by which drugs cause cancer," he says.
UC Research Supports Findings This isn't the only study to show that sleeping pills are risky. An earlier study led by Dr. Kenneth
Wright from the University of Colorado showed that they can also affect brain performance by up to 50 percent. Dr. Gottlieb agrees. He's a sleep expert and is Yale-trained. He also got his fellowship
from Stanford Medical School. He says that sleeping pills affect the pathways of your brain and that's what makes them really risky. "Side effects of these medications are very worrisome," he says. As
you've seen there are some serious risks from taking sleeping pills. But there are plenty of ways to fall asleep faster and promote deep sleep, without the risk.
Three Safe and Natural Ways to Promote Sleep. We told you recently how one tart fruit naturally boosts your sleep quality. Here are three more ways to improve your sleep.
Lemon balm – This is an herb that has been used for centuries to improve sleep. And recent studies show that our ancestors were really on to something. Cultivation and use of the plant
began in Europe, but is now grown all over the world. It grows up to two feet tall and has small yellow flowers that smell of lemon. "Several studies show that lemon balm helps promote
sleep" say researchers from the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). "In one study of people with minor sleep problems, 81 percent reported sleeping much better than
those who took placebo." Lemon balm is made from the leaves of the plant and you can get it as a tea or in capsules. Experts at UMMC recommend three, 300-500 mg capsules in the
evening. You can also put one teaspoon of dried lemon balm in hot water, and you can enjoy up to four cups before you go to bed.
Melatonin – This hormone is good if you have a hard time getting to sleep. You can take it 30 to 90 minutes before you go to bed. But we do have to warn you that there can be a risk
associated with melatonin. It's a hormone, just like estrogen or testosterone. If you take it for too long, your body will produce less and less of it so you'll have to use more. If you do decide
to take it, you'll need 2-5 mg an hour before you go to sleep. You can buy it online or at health stores and you can get it in liquid or capsule form.
Valerian – It's an old-fashioned remedy, but recent studies are backing it up. Valerian is an herb that has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient Greece. It contains the sedative
compounds, valeric and valerenic acid. The roots and stems are used to make tablets and capsules. You can also drink it as a tea. Valerian is nontoxic and has no addictive properties.
Clinical studies have used between 300-900 mg with good results. Take one to two hours before bedtime. As usual, even the "safest" drugs turn out to have serious side effects. And like
always, there are natural alternatives that you can use that achieve the health benefits you need, without any of the risks that come from man-made drugs
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The latest research suggests that one of the most
common drugstore pills may pose a serious risk to your health. In fact, these pills are so common, there's a good chance you have a bottle in your own bathroom cabinet. Most people are blissfully
unaware of the risks. They see these pills as harmless. But new research from Scripps Research Institute shows that this just isn't the case. In fact these "harmless" pills could significantly increase your risk of cancer. The
study was headed up by Dr. Daniel Kripke. He's a Harvard graduate and leads research for the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California. "The evidence is that any patient who
takes these pills is increasing his risk of getting cancer," he says. "I feel that my patients should be warned about this risk." So just what ill does this common drugstore pill ease? The answer: Insomnia.