MESSAGE FROM THE BISHOP COADJUTOR AS WE MAKE READY FOR PASCHA By His Excellency Bishop Timothy of Duluth As we move along in this New Year, it will not be too long before we approach Great Lent, Holy Week, and Pascha. In our tradition, we utilize some Syrian Antiochian customs that help beautify the churches during this Solemn Season of the Church. In the Syrian Church, during the middle week of Great Lent (around the Feast of the Forty Holy Martyrs of Sebaste), after the Adoration of the Holy Cross on the 3rd Sunday of Lent, the Golgotha is erected. This is a wooden pillar of sorts that is about 6-7' tall and placed in the front middle of the nave for the people to venerate. On the top of this is a platform on which stand the Holy Cross, usually one that is about 2-3' high. Some parishes use a high standing tetrapod where a pillar is not possible. This is done after the veneration of the Holy Cross. It is clad in crimson (reminiscent of Christ's garments, Isaiah 63). On the side of the Cross a candle is placed on both sides as are the cherubic fans, if available. The Holy Bible is placed at the foot of the Cross. The pillar is veiled in crimson and this is venerated by all when they enter and leave the church. During the Creed, the priest, or deacon, incenses the pillar and veil all around three times. This calls to memory the sufferings and pain that Christ endured for us, along with His humiliation as he was whipped at the pillar. This remains in place until just before the Lamentations on Holy Friday. It is our prayer that more parishes will participate in this worthy custom this year. One other tradition is that at Vespers on Palm Sunday evening for the next day, along with Litiya, the chimes are rung constantly until all clergy have entered the Holy Bema and reverence the Holy Altar (Table). This is a tradition of our Church.
ON THE LOVE AND HUMILITY OF GOD By Elder Ephraim from the Holy Mountain When Christ lives within you, fear nothing. In order for Christ to live within you, much humility is needed. Mentally fall at His immaculate feet and weep saying, "My Jesus, You alone are left for me in this humble life of mine as light and life. Show me Your spiritual beauty, so that I may be filled with divine eros and run after Your myrrh and cry out, 'My soul has cleaved to You, Your right hand has helped me.' (Ps 62:8). Oh, my Jesus, when shall I come and appear before Your face? (Ps 41:2). When, O light of my soul, shall I see You and be filled and say, 'Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!" (Rom 11:33). Yes, my child, love humility above all, and then you will obtain Jesus, Who is lowly in heart, as an everlasting possession in your soul. Inhale Jesus; exhale Jesus, and then you will know what Jesus is! Where is earthly love then! Is it possible for a firebrand to fall upon a parched forest and for anything to survive? The same thing happens with the twigs of human thoughts when the love of Jesus falls upon them. [Letters and Homilies of Elder Ephraim]
ECUMENICAL TALKS REACH PARTIAL ACCORD ON PRIMACY From CW News [Rome, November 14, 2007 (CWNews.com)] Talks between Catholic [Roman] and Orthodox theologians, held in Ravenna Italy in October, produced a framework for agreement about the primacy of the Pope, according to a report in the Italian daily La Repubblica. The top Vatican representative at the Ravenna talks has cautioned that a 46-paragraph final document approved by the participants should not be seen as a dramatic step forward toward Orthodox acceptance of the Pope's authority, since it does not resolve questions about the entire nature of papal authority. Cardinal Walter Kasper, the president of the Pontifical Council for Christian Unity, told a Vatican Radio audience that "the real breakthrough is that for the first time the Orthodox were ready to speak about the universal level of the Church ." The 46-paragraph document approved at the Ravenna meeting refers to the Bishop of Rome as the "first among the patriarchs" La Repubblica reported. The document recognizes the historical Patriarchates of the united Church, in Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch, and Jerusalem. Among these, the Ravenna participants agreed, Rome has primacy. However, the Ravenna document does not settle questions about the power the Pope enjoys as a consequence of that primacy. In fact, the members of the Joint International Commission for Theological Dialogue noted in their concluding statement that Catholic and Orthodox theologians disagree " on the interpretation of the historical evidence from this era regarding the prerogatives of the bishop of Rome as protos", or first among patriarchs. "While the fact of primacy at the universal level is accepted by both the East and West," the Ravenna statement continued, "there are differences of understanding with regard to the manner in which it is to be exercised, and also with respect to its scriptural and theological foundations." Cardinal Kasper told Vatican radios that the Ravenna document will serve as a basis for further talks. The October meeting in Ravenna was the 10th plenary session of the joint theological commission, which was established in 1979 as a joint initiative of Pope John Paul II and Ecumenical Patriarch Dimitrios I. The Joint Commission brings together 60 top theologians, 30 Catholic and 30 Orthodox [Catholic]. The Ravenna meeting was conducted under a cloud because the Russian Orthodox delegation walked out of the meeting at the beginning of the discussion, in a dispute over the seating of a delegation from the Estonian Orthodox Church, which Moscow does nor recognize.
SYRIAC PATRIARCHATE COUNTS PATRIARCHS [[Antioch Syria] Recently the Syrian Patriarchate has decided to investigate its succession of Patriarchs from the time of St Peter the Apostle. To many, this seems to be more of a "house cleaning attempt" instead of one establishing a true number of successors to St Peter. According to the "Spiral List" of names and dates at the Deir Za'faran Monastery in Mardin Turkey, there are 150 names shown on it. However, according to the Patriarchate there are 121 names with the current Patriarch Ignatius Zakka Iwas being the 122nd. This is because those who held the See of Antioch who were seen as rival or illegal patriarchs have been excluded now. It is the opinion of some that all names should be maintained if they were enthroned to keep history accurate. This exclusion also affected those who were Chalcedonian. Without dispute over spelling of names and dates there is a significant difference in the length of the lists. In the fifth century His Holiness Peter the Fuller attempted to restore the true line of succession in Antioch. According to Father Dale Johnson, "After the death of Severus (538) the ancient and authentic line of Antiochian Patriarchs, later to be known as the Syrian Orthodox, were consecrated and elected once again. In te 13th century the Crusades dramatically impacted and damaged Syrian Orthodox authority both in Antioch and throughout the East. Multiple rival patriarchs fought for control in the turmoil of war and social chaos. The Patriarchal See retreated to the safety of Mardin and the famed Deir Za'faran Monastery where the spiral list of patriarchal names was placed on the chair of the patriarchs. In the following century, stability returned to the patriarchate and patriarchs, and beginning with Yousef bar Wehebin (1293), they began to use the name "Ignatius." Upon this chair in Mardin patriarchs ruled for nearly 700 years until the collapse of the Ottoman Empire." Upon looking at this list you will see 150 names and dates, but in it among those qualified as legitimate successors are 28 illegal or rival patriarchs, including the seven Arian patriarchs from A.D. 331 to A.D. 360. However, in both lists attempts were made to take control away from the Antiochian line of patriarchs. Rome also had such problems in their history. There are probably those who would like to see all the Chalcedonian patriarchs removed and completely forgotten, but this would not be just and honest. Both sides fight over the "legitimacy factor" of the succession of the Holy See, but forget that the entire succession belongs to St Peter the Apostle and all his successors, be they honorable ones or not. Such a tampering with history is not right for whatever purposes may be existing, and only leaves voids in time where no explanation is known. Would this then cause more confusion and more questions? Certainly it would, and what would the cost eventually be? Sometimes it is best to simply leave things as they are and offer an explanation as to why they are what they are.
COUNCIL OF CANONICAL AUTOCEPHALOUS ORTHODOX BISHOPS "The Council of Canonical Autocephalous Orthodox Bishops will become a shinning example to all others of how true Orthodox Christians should live together in peace and love for the greater glory of God, and the good continuity of His Holy Church." (Stated by Archbishop Stephen at the announcement of the First Syndesmos). The First Syndesmos (CCAOB) will take place from August 1st-2nd, 2008. Several of the interested bishops had other obligations and could not attend this year so the meeting was postponed. The Syndesmos will be held in Cleveland Ohio and the location will be announced by April 1, 2008. Those hierarchs interested in being a part of CCAOB must be in attendance or should arrange to send a representative with authority to act for his jurisdiction. Those interested must contact the Metropolis by March 25th, 2008.
SYRO-RUSSIAN METROPOLIS MAKES DECISION ON MOVE FROM DULUTH [Duluth MN] His Beatitude has decided to move the Metropolis to Cleveland Ohio in early 2008. Bishop Timothy of Duluth met with a realtor on December 10, 2007, and signed an agreement with him to place the Cathedral on the market. Preparation for the move is already commenced. The Metropolis will be located at first at Our Lady of Sitka Monastery in Cleveland at the invitation of His Grace Bishop Simeon, who will be assisting His Beatitude, Bishop Timothy, and two others, Subdeacon Mark and William Miller, once in Cleveland. His generosity is much appreciated. Clergy and Commission members are advised to make plans to be in Cleveland Ohio in August of 2008 for the annual Consistory and Conference.
METROPOLIA STANDS FIRM ON DIRECTIVES [Duluth MN] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen has again stated his expectations of all clergy and parishes regarding the monthly tithe or assessment and the use of the approved rubrics in the Divine Liturgy. In a telephonic conference call with other another bishop and two members of the clergy he stated: "It is good to know that the clergy of your jurisdictions do as they are required, for this is pleasing to God and the Church. I have experienced some that fail to do their part making it hard on the Metropolis. I have issued a stern warning that will be effective in January 2008. As with you, there must be order in our Church." The "Orthodox Christian Herald" has covered the expectations of the Church, and has even allowed for those in need to be exempt in part from their monthly oblation, i.e., those with limited income. The Metropolis has always been compassionate, but it will no longer be disrespected, as advised by His Beatitude. Some have suffered greatly to make up for what some others do not give. This we do not want to see. Those who fail to meet their obligations, or fail to request a waiver when needed and for just cause, will not receive their 2008 Charter in September until resolved. Also, His Beatitude expects all clergy to purchase the new Liturgikon by January 25, 2008, and use it according to the rubrics. To do otherwise in or out of his presence will also be considered disobedience. The rules on this matter have been published in the OCH previously. Because of the cost of these nicely bound books all clergy must remit $100.00 plus $25.00 to cover shipping. Foreign clergy must add $35.00. This book is professionally bound and it also contains graphics and red-letter rubrics making it easier to use. Many hours of work went into this. It supercedes all previous editions, and this one is the final product. These may be ordered directly from St Mary Cathedral, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth Minnesota 55807 (USA).
METROPOLIS RESPONDS TO RAVENNA PRIMACY ISSUE [Duluth MN] In response to the Ravenna Document issued in 2007 by a Joint Committee of sixty Roman and Orthodox theologians, His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen has issued a very strong statement concerning this matter, one that is supported in various other wording by many other jurisdictions the world over. "There is no doubt in our minds, i.e., those who maintain the true Orthodox Catholic and Apostolic Faith of the Eastern Church, that all reasonable efforts should be made to mend the long existing separation of the Church of the West with those of the Churches of the East. However, at what cost to us? How far do we go to achieve this and to what extent? Do we totally ignore history and what the early Church Fathers believed and taught? Do we ignore St Peter's true role in the Apostolic Church? Do we ignore what St Cyprian of Carthage had to say? These are all very sound questions that deserve an answer from those who claim to represent all of Orthodoxy in this matter. I am amazed at the efforts being made in this matter, many that go against Orthodoxy teachings, and yet the efforts to reunite Oriental Orthodox with Eastern Orthodox is moving like the speed of a snail. This is appalling to many bishops of the Church. Let us refresh our memories with the words of St Cyprian of Carthage who was an African of noble birth, bishop of Carthage, and a martyr for the true faith in A.D. 258. St Cyprian opposed readmission of lapsed Christians who denied the faith in the face of persecution while Pope Stephen of Rome took them in. This caused an exchange of letters between St Cyprian and Pope Stephen, which were later used as proof that a pope's jurisdiction in the early Church was severely limited. He did not possess 'universal jurisdiction' or anything like it, over Christendom. In fact, was it not Emperor Constantine who gave the same prerogatives to Constantinople that was enjoyed by Rome? Did not the Bishop of Constantinople ("New Rome") receive the title of "Ecumenical Patriarch in the 6 th century?" He became first among equals and enjoyed primacy of honor, not jurisdiction. At the III Council at Constantinople the Roman Pope Honorius was condemned for teaching the Monothelite heresy i.e., that Christ had but one will. St Peter the Apostle, 1 st Bishop of Antioch, did not enjoy the same papal primacy that Rome took upon herself. The real issue that should be addressed by the Orthodox theologians is how can Rome be reunited to the four ancient Patriarchates of the Undivided Church. Why waste time on an issue that never existed among those of the ancient Church? The solution is for Rome to realize its primacy over only the Roman Catholic Church, rid itself of all Roman innovations, and make peace with the Holy Eastern Orthodox Catholic and Apostolic Church. During this gathering at Ravenna, one alleged to bring all those attending closer together, the Russian Orthodox Church (Moscow) delegation walked out in difference over the Estonian Orthodox being present, a jurisdiction that they do not recognize. Peace cannot even be achieved between Orthodox brothers yet certain Eastern Orthodox are so concerned about "papal primacy" and how the Orthodox Church will look upon this innovation! Such happenings are causing more disunity among the Eastern Orthodox with each new step being taken by some Orthodox. Ravenna is not being well received by many jurisdictions. Again, we should all want to see a true and honorable reunion of these two great Churches, but under the right circumstances and for all the right reasons. One must ask the real question, what are the "leaders" of the Patriarchates that we are to look to for spirituality and guidance, doing? Are they trying to please God and the early Church Fathers, or Rime?" The news release stated 'Catholic and Orthodox theologians disagree "on the interpretation of the historical evidence from this era regarding the prerogatives of the bishop of Rome as protos", or first among patriarchs. 'While the fact of primacy at the universal level is accepted by both East and West', the Ravenna statement continued, "there are differences of understanding with regard to the manner in which it is to be exercised, and also with respect to its scriptural and theological foundations.' "How else might we expect that "primacy" be regarded and interpreted that would be different from St Peter and what the early Church Fathers have already decided? If 2 + 2 = 4, what more needs to be done? Primacy is a thing of honor not jurisdiction, what more can be said without changing history, by these top-notch theologians? They fail to realize just how many Orthodox Christians are angered over this debacle being orchestrated especially by the Orthodox who are participating. The teachings, traditions, canons, and policies of the Holy Church are clear – what more can be said?" The belief of the Syro-Russian Metropolis is this: Primacy, no matter what jurisdiction shall claim it, is only honorary and not jurisdictional, and no bishop has authority over all Churches except those that belong to his own jurisdiction. This applies to Rome or Constantinople, or any other canonically established and recognized Patriarchate, and St Peter, himself, never enjoyed this privilege over St Paul, St Andrew, St Thomas, or any of the other Holy Apostles. Only the Holy Spirit, the true Vicar of Christ's Church on earth, can claim such a primacy. This is the teaching and belief of the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church.
By Monk Athanasios The Monophysites are a heretical schism which rejected the Fourth Ecumenical Council that was held in Chalcedon in A.D. 451, and consequently they also do not recognize the Fifth, Sixth, or Seventh Ecumenical Councils. The Fathers of all these Councils condemned the Monophysites as heretics who denied the two natures of Christ (divine and human), and anathematized them (that is, declared them to be separated from God and outside the Church). "Monophysite" is the Greek word for "One Nature." Thus, in reality, they believe that Christ has one nature, and not two. This means that Christ would be something less than perfect God and perfect man, that is not what Orthodoxy has always believed and confessed (we believe in His two Natures). This faith is fundamental to our salvation, for only that which was assumed, can be redeemed. If Christ was something less that perfect man, if His human nature was somehow made into a hybrid with the divine, the He no longer has a perfect human nature like us. He is no longer the God-man, but instead, they would make Him into some sort of hybrid, tat is neither truly God, not truly man. The Copts, Ethiopians, Armenians, and some Syrians, for example, are Monophysites, and have been regarded as heretics by the Orthodox Church, the Ecumenical Councils, and the Holy Fathers, for the last 1,500 years. Recently, the Monophysites have claimed that it was all just a big misunderstanding, and that they have been Orthodox all along – but they still refuse to accept the Seven Ecumenical Councils without addition or subtraction, which is something that the Councils themselves require.. They have even glorified Severus and Dioscorus (who have been condemned as heretics and anathematized by the Ecumenical Councils) as saints, and they pray to them, and venerate their icons. I suppose that under the Antiochian "Statement," members of the Antiochian Archdiocese are now free to do the same, and their priests can now say: "O Holy John Chrysostom, pray for us! O Holy Severus and Dioscorus, pray to god for us!" Whoever says these latter words places himself under Ecumenical anathema. Whoever is under Ecumenical anathema, is outside the Church. If the Antiochians and Alexandrians are in communion with those who are under Ecumenical anathema, then the once Local Churches of Antioch and Alexandria are now clearly outside of the Church, having consummated open apostasy with the bare-headed blessing of their Patriarchs and once-holy Synods. Editor's Note: Monk Athanasios must remember that the Ethiopians, Copts, Armenians, et cetera, are "Orthodox" but not Eastern Orthodox, they are "Oriental Orthodox" and they cannot be denied that, anymore than Rome can be denied their "Catholicity," although they are separated from Orthodoxy. The Oriental Orthodox are starting to change their thoughts on the issue of "Two Natures" and perhaps that is the first step that must be overcome before acceptance of the Councils after (and including) Chalcedon. We must pray for their return to true Faith.
HISTORY AND DOCTRINES: THE ORTHODOX CHURCH (Slightly edited. First published in 1992.) By Luther W Martin The Holy Orthodox Catholic and Apostolic Eastern Church, perhaps more commonly known in the United States as the "(Greek) Orthodox Church" or "Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church" descended from what is termed the "Patriarchates of Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch, and Jerusalem." In A.D. 325, when Emperor Constantine convened the Council of Nicaea, only three cities possessed patriarchates: Rome in the West, and Antioch and Alexandria in the East. Although the Greek Orthodox and the Roman Catholic Church both claim that the first seven Ecumenical Councils were theirs, the historical evidence substantiates the claim of the Orthodox Church. The Emperor convened each of the first seven "Ecumenical (General) Councils." No Orthodox Patriarch or Latin Pope assembled these councils. The Ecumenical Councils were these as follow. Nicaea I (AD 325) with 315 Orthodox and 3 Latins attending; Constantinople I (AD 381) with 150 Orthodox and 1 Latin attending; Ephesus (AD 431) with 67 Orthodox and 1 Latin attending. Also, Chalcedon (AD 451) with 350 Orthodox and 3 Latins attending; Constantinople II (AD 553) with 158 Orthodox and 6 Latins attending. Also, Constantinople III (680) with 51 Orthodox and 5 Latins attending; and Nicaea II (AD 787) with 370 Orthodox and 7 Latins attending. In total, 1,461 Orthodox bishops and representatives attended them all with only 26 Latins. The language used in recording all the events and decisions at them all were Greek, not Latin. Some two decades after "Christianity" became the state religion of the Roman Empire, Emperor Constantine moved the capital from Rome to Byzantium. He began to rule his vast empire from the "new Rome" in the East, and renamed Byzantium to Constantinople (present day Istanbul), in honor of himself. There were now four patriarchs in the East, while in the West there was still only one. Thus, a sole patriarch, whose power developed and expanded, so that he became the sole head of the Roman Church, headed the Western Church. In the East, the four patriarchs were the heads of their respective churches or communities, and thus was not a monarchy, but "an oligarchy of patriarchs," based on the body of bishops and responsible to local or general (ecumenical) Church councils. No one patriarch was responsible to any other patriarch, yet all were within the jurisdiction of an ecumenical council of all the churches in communion with the patriarch of Constantinople, who held the title of Ecumenical Patriarch. All five were equals, and all five accepted the Nicene Creed, the Statement of Faith that was publicly produced and circulated as an outgrowth of the Council of Nicaea, which had been convened by Constantine. One of Nicaea's major accomplishments was the making of the determination when Pascha (Easter) was to be observed annually. The Eastern Orthodox Church claims to be the "direct heir and true conservator" of the original primitive Christian Church. By shifting the Roman Empire's capital city to the East, the center of political influence, social influence, and intellectual influence, was also removed from Rome and centered in Constantinople. In A.D. 476, the Roman Empire collapsed with the eastern half continuing its own Greek-speaking government, interests, and ideas. The western portion embraced the Latin language. From the 5th to the 11th centuries the Eastern and the Western Churches became more and more estranged. Therefore, in A.D. 1054, came the final schism between Constantinople and Rome. The Eastern Orthodox Church has no creeds in the modern Western use of the term. It has no summaries of what must be believed. Instead, it has preserved the older idea that a creed is an adoring confession of the Church engaged in worship; thus expressing the belief of the Church by way of public testimony, rather than by symbols or creeds. The Eastern Church differs roughly from the innovations of the Western Church: (a) The ecumenical creeds of the early undivided Church, i.e., the New Testament Church; and (b) Later testimonies defining the position of the Eastern Orthodox Church in contrast with the Roman Church and Protestantism. The Orthodox Church adopts the doctrinal decisions of the seven Ecumenical Councils, together with the canons of the Concilium Quinisextum or Second Trullan Council (AD 692). It further holds that all these definitions and canons are simply explanations and enforcements of the Nicaeo-Constantinopolitan creed and decrees of the first Ecumenical Council of Nicaea. The Trullan Council took its name from the domed hall in the imperial palace in Constantinople, in which it assembled. Concerning specific doctrines and practices, the following explain. (a) Doctrine is based upon the Bible, holy tradition, and on the decrees of the seven Ecumenical Councils. (b) The change in the Nicene Creed, which was made by the Roman Church to state that the Holy Spirit proceeded directly from the Father and the Son (filioque), is rejected by the Orthodox Churches. They accept the original reading of the Nicene Creed that the Holy Spirit proceeds only from the Father! (c) The Orthodox also belief in the Trinity of the Godhead as three Persons in one God, all co-eternal and equally God. (d) The Dual Nature of the one person of Christ, i.e., that Christ is God and Man. (e) The reverence (dulia) of images, i.e., icons, is acceptable. This is to be distinguished from latria, which is the worship paid only to God. (f) The Church of Christ is the fellowship of all those who accept and profess all the articles transmitted by the Apostles and approved by the Ecumenical Synods. Outside the visible Church, there is no salvation. (g) Patriarchs have the highest rank among the Bishops. (h) Patriarchs and Bishops, when assembled in a General Council cannot err in matters of faith; thus infallibility resides in a General Council, rather than in Rome's single bishop (as decreed by Rome in AD 1871). (I) Bishops (including Patriarchs), Priests, and Deacons constitute a distinct three-fold order, jure divino, (by divine law), from other Christians. (j) Bishops must be unmarried, while Priests and Deacons may be married prior to taking the first major order of deacon, and may not contract a second marriage. (k) Priests (including Bishops) administer six sacraments (Holy Mysteries), but the seventh that of Holy Ordination (Holy Orders) is administered only by Bishops. (l) Indulgences are not recognized. (m) An intermediate state of the dead is held, but not systematized into a doctrine of purgatory. The Orthodox pray for the dead, and believe that the dead pray for those on earth. They honor the saints and nine orders of angels. (n) The Virgin Mary receives homage or veneration, but rejects the Roman innovation of Immaculate Conception. (o) Although icons are used in churches, "graven images" (statues) are not allowed except for a crucifix. (p) Since the 4 th century, monasticism has been an important adjunct to the Eastern Orthodox Church. (q) The Mystery of Anointing with Holy Chrism (confirmation) is administered immediately following Baptism. (r) Holy Eucharist is the chief service on all Sundays and the twelve Great Holy Days. At the end of the 1st World War there were about 21 autonomous Orthodox Churches. However, since then the Eastern Orthodox Churches in Estonia, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Finland, have been absorbed by Russia, although some are now autocephalous. The term "Orthodox" is used to indicate non-fellowship with the Roman Church. There are some Orthodox who separated from the Eastern Orthodox Church and united with Rome as Byzantine Uniates, but some, like the Uniate Church of Western Ukraine renounced allegiance to the Pope and returned to Eastern Orthodoxy in 1946, as happened with the Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church. Some Western parishes of the Roman Church also separated and joined with the Eastern Orthodox Church, e.g., the Malankara Orthodox who were once Portuguese Roman Catholics. It should be mentioned that with the advent of women's ordinations in the Anglican Church, many of its members converted to the Eastern Orthodox Church as Western Rite parishes. The autocephalous Orthodox Churches, i.e., those jurisdictions that have their own heads but are united in faith, forms of worship, spiritual ethos, and general pattern of organization are: Jerusalem, Antioch, Cyprus, Alexandria, which go back to the early ages of Christianity. Some others were established in the course of the Byzantine missionary expansion, e.g., Bulgaria and Russia. In the fifth century the whole Church in the Roman Empire was divided into five patriarchal provinces: Rome, Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch, and Jerusalem. The Church of Cyprus was granted an autonomous status. "The increasing claims of Rome for a universal authority and supervision, together with the growing cultural and political estrangement between the East and West, ultimately led to disruption of the Church unity." The official date of the Great Schism between the East and West was in A.D. 1054. As of 1992 the following were the autocephalous Churches of Orthodoxy. (1) Constantinople to which belongs numerous Greek communities in Western Europe, Australia, North America, and Latin America, as well as a considerable group of Russian communities in Western Europe; the latter group organized into a permanent "exarchate," with its See in Paris France. The Archbishop of Constantinople has the title of "Ecumenical Patriarch." This title, however, does not carry or indicate any universal jurisdiction. (2) Alexandria, a center of Christianity in Egypt, that also includes the Orthodox communities in South Africa. (3) The Patriarchate of Antioch, including an Archdiocese for Syrians in America that has oversight over all who belong to the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch. However, there are two Patriarchates, that of the Syrian (Antiochian) Orthodox Church (Chalcedonian), and those of the Old Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch (Non-Chalcedonian). (4) Jerusalem that is often referred to as the Mother See of the Christian Church and also looked upon as the Holy City of Christendom. (5) That of Moscow, a later canonized Patriarchate of the Orthodox Church, which is the See of the Russian Orthodox Church in Russia. (6) The Patriarchate of Georgia (USSR, at that time), with the center at Tbilisi, which recovered its independence after the Russian Revolution. (7) The Patriarchate of Yugoslavia that is headed by the Serbian Patriarch, and who is over all members of the Serbian Orthodox Church that are in union with his Patriarchate. (8) The Patriarchate of Rumania, also, Romania, the See of all Romanian Orthodox Christians both in Romania and outside of it, except for those who belong to the autocephalous Romanian Churches that have separated from the Patriarchate for political reasons or conflict in administration, like with the Russian Church. (9) The Exarchate of Bulgaria, which has also suffered various divisions among its parishes and members leaving the Bulgarian Orthodox Church under more than one head. (10) The Church of the Kingdom of Greece, with the archbishop of Athens as the acting Primate, however today there exists in Greece several divisions within the Greek Orthodox Church. (11) Archdiocese of Cyprus that is actually an island, and the Cypriot Church was allowed independence from the Patriarchates and was granted autonomy in 1571. (12) Albanian Orthodox Church. (13) Orthodox Church in Finland. (14) The Orthodox Church of Poland. (15) The Orthodox Church of Czechoslovakia granted autocephalous status by the Moscow Patriarchate in 1951. (16) The Sinai Monastery that had an independent status for centuries, and the abbot being an archbishop. There is no administrative center, nor any official organ for consultation. Nevertheless most of the Orthodox Churches are in full communion with one another and regard themselves as branches of the same spiritual organism, the Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church. Those separated from the Ecumenical Patriarch, or other patriarchates, known as autocephalous Churches, for the most part, still have great respect for the various patriarchates that espouse true Orthodoxy. In most cases, it is the fault of the patriarchates that universal communion with them is not worldwide among all jurisdictions. Services in the Eastern Orthodox Church is usually in the vernacular, but in the United States many churches are adding a various amount of English into their currently ethnic liturgies. (Editor's Note): [However, the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church has used English in the United States in all its services since its first Archdiocese here in A.D. 1892]. The Divine Liturgy is celebrated in many languages and dialects in all countries. The rites used in the Church today were used in it during the early centuries of the Christian Church. Originally, the Eastern Orthodox Church was found mostly in Eastern Europe and Asia, but today is found in all parts of the world and is the second largest body of Christians next to the Roman Church.
QUESTIONS Q. What is a Paschal Candle? A. The lighting of the Paschal Candle is a tradition that is observed in the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox Catholic, and some other Churches. This is a large decorated candle that is placed close to the main altar in a large candlestick. It is usually blessed prior to the Divine Liturgy of Pascha, and it is lighted from flint on the night of Holy Saturday, during the Paschal Vigil or Vespers, and just before the Paschal Divine Liturgy at midnight. From this candle all other candles in the church are lit and soon the darkened church becomes brilliantly illuminated to reveal the beauty of Christ's Resurrection as shown in the beautiful flowers and decorations in the church. This ritual of the fire dates back to the 4th century A.D. The Paschal Candle represents Christ's person, and its flame symbolizes His Resurrection as "the light of the world." It is customary in Orthodox churches, as was done in early times, for parishioners to carry the fire (lit candle) from the church to their home, and then to light their hearths and lamps. Today we light the candles on the family altar and at the Paschal meal on the dining room table. The passing of the light from this candle to all believers symbolizes Christ's giving of His life for us all. Q. Is the Divine Liturgy spoken by the priest like in the Roman Catholic Church? Janice Morgan, Kouts IN A. Orthodox Divine Liturgy is chanted and sung almost entirely except for the inaudible prayers. The sermon is usually the only part of the Divine Liturgy that is actually spoken aloud. There is much dialogue between the choir, the congregation, the Cantor (Psaltis) and the priest. The Orthodox Catholic Church does not have "Low Mass" and "High Mass" as do the Romans, in Orthodoxy every Liturgy can be considered a "High Liturgy" so-to-speak. Q. Where is the Primacy of Peter? I hear it is in Rome and others say Antioch. Where is it? Joseph Rodino, Merrillville IN A. Simply put, it is in Antioch, not Rome. The Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch is one of the first particular Patriarchates and Churches of Christianity. St Peter the Apostle established the Church in Antioch in A.D. 34, and even Holy Scripture will attest to his being bishop of Antioch. The Syriac Fathers of the Church have always been convinced of the unique office of St Peter in the primitive Christian Church. St Paul went to the Gentiles in Rome as St Peter went to the Jews in Antioch. Thanks to St Paul the Christian Faith was planted in Rome and he established the Christian Church there, just as St Peter did the same in Antioch. St Peter went to Rome where he, and St Paul, were both martyred. Based on this, Rome counts St Peter as their first Bishop and Pope. It is from St Peter in Antioch that the Apostolic Succession of the Antiochian/Syriac Patriarchs comes from. It is Antioch where St Peter was its first Bishop. Q. What is meant by "Augustinian view of Valid Orders?" Adam Mateja (Chicago IL) A. There is actually two schools of thought regarding the validity of orders, the Cyprian and Augustinian views. Both agree that Apostolic Succession is vital to the validity of Holy Orders. The "Augustinian View" teaches a four-fold criterion to determine validity, three are exterior and the fourth is interior. These are (1) Form – The consecration must be done during the Divine Liturgy. (2) Matter – There must be an actual laying on of hands by a bishop during the Liturgy, in addition to specific prayers. (3) Minister – The one who performs the ordination or consecration, must be a validly consecrated bishop in Apostolic Succession. (4) Intention – The intent of the laying on of hands and the prayer to the Holy Spirit must be to ordain or consecrate the ordinand. In the earliest ordinations of the Holy Christian Church described in Acts 6:1-6, it was the norm to follow this criterion: (1) Present the ordinand to one of the bishops. (2) Offer prayers for the ordinand that he will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit for his sacerdotal ministry. (3) That the hands of at least three bishops (in Episcopal consecration), or of the bishop and priests (in an ordination of priests), or of the bishop (in ordination of deacons) be laid upon the ordinand and the invocation to the Holy Spirit be pronounced over him. To these have been added an examination of candidates concerning beliefs, proper vesting according to their order, the delivering to them of the symbols of their office, and the presentation of the newly ordained to the faithful. The above three steps were used by the Holy Apostles and are still used today. The Roman Church follows this, and many Eastern Orthodox Churches also accept the above, e.g. Syro-Russian. Some follow only the Cyprian View on Apostolic Succession, i.e., in brief, that only within the Holy Eastern Orthodox Church exists Apostolic Succession, and that would make those of Rome unacceptable, although in practice otherwise.
APPOINTMENTS & ASSIGNMENTS St Mark Seminary & College Development Committee:
OFFICIAL FROM METROPOLIA Issue 1 - Repeated (11.11.07/1): Clergy are instructed at this time to make certain that they read the Orthodox
Christian Herald, and to respond to issues that pertain to them. Official advisements are placed in this section from the Metropolia. Issue 2
– (01.11.08): All clergy are expected to purchase from the Metropolis the Liturgikon of the Archdiocese, and the Canon Laws of the Metropolis. This must be done by no later than March 1, 2008.
ANNOUNCEMENTS (Birthdays, Weddings, Anniversaries, Remembrances, Et Cetera) All are invited to send in announcements to share with us all.
PAROCHIAL CHARTERS Established:
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS Subdeacon Matthew Largaespada of California will be reviewed for degradation from his Office as Subdeacon. Currently, he is temporally suspended
for failure to maintain communication with the Metropolia, inappropriate conduct, and failure to maintain contact with his superior in Nicaragua, and failure to complete academic requirements with the Seminary. He has contacted the
Chancery twice to make promises of resolve that have not been honored. PRAY FOR THE SICK AND SUFFERING
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!
DONATIONS TO THE METROPOLIA "Giving to Glorify God" (Matthew 6: 1-4). The
Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Metropolia 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." Donation statements upon request.
You are asked to consider a donation to help the Metropolia with all its programs to St Mary Theotokos Cathedral, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807.
PRIMATE'S MESSAGE TO FOREIGN SEMINARIANS By His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen Respected Seminarians of the Church, this
lowly servant of God, a sinner, your spiritual father, greets you all: Effective on February 1, 2008, until further notice, the Metropolis will not grant anymore R-Visa requests from seminarians that wish to
come here for studies. We have experienced several cases of abuse by some, and there have been those who have come here in the past only to escape poor situations in their own countries and who have abused our kindness. In several
cases this has caused us embarrassment and situations where we have been subjected to the lies of these men who were only trying to remain in the United States. We are sorry that the "bad apples" must spoil it for all the
good ones. Only Bishops and Bishops-elect will be exempt from this directive, and those clergy known to us for five years or more. All other seminarians will need to apply for a "visitor visa" to come and prepare
for ordination, and will be subject to the restrictions and expectations of such. To date, the Metropolis has incurred a cost of over $35,000.00 since 2001 in providing room, food, clothing, books, sight-seeing, et cetera, for
those who have come here without any dowry or funds to help. In addition, we have been subjected to over $1,500.00 in phone bills generated from these men. This is not the way sincere seminarians conduct their affairs. Among the
most serious abusers have been Joseph Zafar (Pakistan), Joseph Klimotho (Kenya), and Mark Kwame Mwaga (Tanzania). Loving hands have received them here and paid all their expenses, and also all the bills made by them without
permission, only to have them bite the hands that have fed them. This is not of God, and those who use God to get what they want and hurt others must answer to Him. It is with a very heavy heart that I must order
the Chancery officials to enforce this directive, but there is no other choice at this time except to have seminarians pay their dowry at the time they request coming here. Father Steven Johnson, who now coordinates foreign
seminarian visits here, will continue to assist those eligible and those who will meet dowry obligation, but all others will need a "visitor's visa". Doxa si Kyrie! Evlogite! +Stephen
VICAR BISHOPS NEED TO MAKE QUARTERLY REPORTS [Metropolia] The Metropolis wants to remind all bishops that they are responsible for making quarterly reports that should include contacts made by them and
contacts made from them to those under their charge, and any comments they feel need to be made to the Primate concerning such. This also includes the territories assigned to each. These are due at the beginning of each season.
There are no exemptions. MEMBERS WITHOUT A PARISH The Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church, like other small and smaller Orthodox jurisdictions, realizes that there are
members who live far away from the nearest parish to them. In some cases, there 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 the Cathedral of St Mary and be on its rolls as
a member. Such persons would be allowed to use the Typica Service within their homes on Sunday and Holy Days. Domestic Churches, 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 St Mary's Cathedral uniting them to the parish in good standing. For further information contact Bishop Timothy at rbsocc@juno.com. If
you are interested in assisting the Archdiocese to establish a mission parish in your area, please write to the same email address. CHRIST THE PANTOCRATOR SOVEREIGN ORDER OF CHIVALRY [Metropolia] Following is a list of the new officers and members of the Christ the Pantocrator Sovereign Order of Chivalry with the blessing of His Beatitude the Primate. Those interested in joining the Order of
Chivalry and being part of Induction Class II for 2008, or wishing more information, are asked to send their petition and bio-data to the Metropolia by no later than March 1st
, 2008. This may be sent to St Mary Cathedral, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807. THE ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN HERALD REQUIRES DONATIONS As many times as this plea has been made,
not one donation has been received! The Metropolia asks that all who read this online newsletter remember that we continue publication and service based on donations. You can do this by sending any donation amount by mail or by
credit card via PayPal online at http://rbsocc.org/donations, or by placing ads for your parish, organization, et cetera, in the "Classified Ad" section of the Herald. If you enjoy
the articles and information shared, please let us know by sending a gift of $25.00 or more. SYNOD AND CONFERENCE SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 2008 [Duluth
MN] The faithful are asked to make plans to be at the next Synodal Consistory and Clergy-Laity Congress, and the Commission Conference in 2008. The Primate is asking that all clergy, advisors, and providers be present for this most
important event in the life of our Church. The attendance in 2007 was most disappointing. The Metropolia has set the Synodal Consistory and Clergy-Laity Congress to begin on Saturday August 2nd
, 2008 and to end on Thursday August 7th, 2008, with the Commission Conference opening on Friday August 8th, 2008 and ending on Sunday August 10th, 2008. The Synodal sessions will begin at
11:00 a.m. each day and end at 8:30 p.m. each day with Vespers on the days announced. The Commission sessions will begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 9:00 p.m. each day. The Commission Conference does not end until after Divine Liturgy
on Sunday August 10th, 2008 and those who do not attend the closing Liturgy will not be awarded annual CEU credits for attendance. It is honorable for all providers to end such an event by giving worship and thanksgiving
to God. This will be held in Cleveland Ohio in 2008. The exact location to be disclosed later in the year. Advertise in the Herald You can advertise
your parish, center, club or other organization in this section for $10.00 plus $.50 (fifty cents) per word. The Orthodox Christian Herald is sent to every diocese, which copies it on to local members. It is read by over 1,000
people and growing. Framed Icon of St Panteleimon, Patron of Healers
Available from St Mary's Orthodox Catholic Church, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807. Suitable for hanging in counseling centers, clinics, and in the home. $40.00, postage and handling included. Commission members are required to have this icon hanging in their offices and clinics. Order yours today.
Lest We Forget Handmade nun dolls from the past. Full habits of many orders of nuns from various Churches including Lutheran and Roman. Nostalgia brought to your doorsteps. These are beautifully created and
show the exact habits of nuns worn many years ago. The wife of one of our priests makes them. You can write for catalog or additional information to Father Patrick Lemming, St James House, 804 Catlett Road, Sevierville TN 37862. Religious Articles Hand-Made Chalice and Diskos Veils, Aers, Red Communion Cloths, Crosses, Analogia, Wooden Blessing Crosses (for house blessings), and other items for sale and made by Deacon Steven Johnson.
All religious items are hand-made to order and inexpensive. For more information and prices please write to: Reverend Steven M Johnson, 1719 South 7th Avenue, St Cloud MN 56301, or call 320-230-2609.
Vestments for Sale Greek-style priest's vestments tailor made in 4-5 weeks. Available colors: White, Silver, Purple, Red, Green, Black, and Gold. Set includes Phelon (Chasuble), Epitrachelion (Stole), Cuffs, Zone, Aer and
Chalice and Diskos veils. Cost per set: $600.00. For more information write to Chancery Office, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807; or email.
St Nicholas Publications Books, pamphlets, booklets on the Church, Chiropathy, History of the Syro-Russian Archdiocese, Liturgy, and more. For a list of publications offered, send an email to or write to St Mary
Cathedral, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807 Revised and completed (2008) - A Treatise on Chiropathy: The Holistic Healing Ministry
is now available from Commission on Religious Counseling & Healing, PO Box 16201, Duluth MN 55816. The cost is $25.00 and includes Postage and Handling. All chiropaths should have this in their library. PARISHES AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE METROPOLIA Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing CRCH.RBSOCC.ORG For information
write: Bishop Timothy, Post Office Box 16201, Duluth Minnesota 55816-1612. This is an organization for licensed 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: Moderator Fr Steven Johnson, St Thomas House, 1719 South 7
th Avenue, St Cloud MN 56301. Monastic Community of St Basil
is open to those who wish to follow a monastic way of life. Write to Chancery Office, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807. The Community has monastic centers in the African Congo, Nigeria, Nicaragua, Ohio, and Minnesota (USA)..The Sisters of the Community of St Basil are headquartered in the African Congo and are part of the Monastic Community of St Basil. His Grace Bishop Cyril of Rivas is the interim Archabbot.
Holy Mother of God Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, VR Archpriest Joseph Mpongo, Louis Lambert Avenue 32A, 6040 Jumet Belgium.
St Luke the Physician Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Mission Parish, VR Father Paul Jensen (Pastor), 339 NE 8th Street, Paris Texas 75450.
St Mary the Theotokos Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Cathedral
located at 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth Minnesota 55807. Clergy: His Excellency Bishop Timothy, Pastor - Father Steven M Johnson, Assistant. Phone: 218-590-8435. Sunday Liturgy: 10:30 A.M.
St Michael & All Angels Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Parish, St Cloud Minnesota. For information on times of Divine Liturgy, please call Father Steven Johnson at 320-230-2609.
St Stephen the Protomartyr Mission Parish, Hemet California; Father Seraphim Reed, Pastor. St Thomas the Apostle Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 1719 South 7th
Avenue, St Cloud Minnesota. Father Steven M Johnson is Administrator. ENCAPSULATED NOTES FROM SYNOD AND CONFERENCE
The following are notes from the Synod of Bishops Consistory, Clergy-Laity Congress, and Commission Conference – August 3rd through August 12th
, A.D. 2007. Synodal Consistory and Conference 2007
METROPOLITAN ANNOUNCES SYNOD AND CONFERENCE FOR 2008 By His Beatitude Metropolitan Archbishop Stephen I am asking all my
brothers and sisters in Christ God to make plans to be with me at the next Synodal Consistory and Clergy-Laity Congress, and the Commission Conference in 2008. I am asking that all be present for this most important event in the
life of our Church. The attendance in 2007 was most disappointing and I believe in my heart that all will make an honest effort to make next year a time of joy.
I have set the Synodal Consistory and Clergy-Laity Congress to begin on Saturday August 2nd, 2008 and to end on Thursday August 7th, 2008, with the Commission Conference opening on Friday August 8th
, 2008 and ending on Sunday August 10th, 2008. The Synodal sessions will begin at 11:00 a.m. each day and end at 8:30 p.m. each day with Vespers on the days announced. The Commission sessions will begin at 10:00 a.m. and
end at 9:00 p.m. each day. The Commission Conference does not end until after Divine Liturgy on Sunday August 10th, 2008 and those who do not attend the closing Liturgy will not be awarded annual CEU credits for
attendance. It is honorable for all providers to end such an event by giving worship and thanksgiving to God. In my years as a priest, Diocesan Bishop, Archbishop and Metropolitan, I have always had the greatest
respect and admiration for those who serve the healing ministry of God. I have worked hard to see the Commission fully established and opened to all sincere persons, and protected by the canons of the Church. In so doing, I have
suffered greatly over the years. Those who come and participate to the end of the Conference by attending Liturgy are to be commended, for you realize who and what you are in relationship to God. My prayer now is for all that serve
the Commission to realize this very same thing and show it this coming year as we end the annual Conference. |