HISTORIC MEETING

Patriarchal Vicar Visits St Sophia Monastery Inn

On May 18^th and 19^th, 2010, His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen met with Patriarchal Vicar His Eminence Archbishop Mor Cyril at St Sophia Monastery Inn in Canfield Ohio. Representing the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Archdiocese were His Eminence Archbishop Timothy and Very Reverend Father Anthony Luebke. Accompanying His Eminence Archbishop Cyril was Father Edward Hanna of Ss Peter & Paul Church (Michigan). During the talks that took place, both Hierarchs exchanged beautiful gifts with each other. His Eminence Archbishop Cyril gave to His Beatitude a beautiful plaque inscribed with the "Lord's Prayer" in Syriac, and a copy of the Holy Qurbono. His Beatitude gave to His Eminence a beautiful icon of the Holy Theotokos, and a smaller version was given to Father Edward Hanna, along with some other exchanges. The discussions centered on the history of the American Archdiocese since His Beatitude Metropolitan Timotheos (1892), differences existing with the Patriarchate and in matters of faith, future of the American Archdiocese, possible expectations of the Patriarchate, and other issues. In addition, His Beatitude exposed some events dating back to 1994 when he was a victim of political attacks on him for various reasons including the Church's position on natural healing from God and that of our university at that time.

His Eminence Archbishop Cyril explained to His Beatitude that the Patriarchate would not expect any changes in our Liturgy or other traditions. The Ecumenical Councils were discussed and agreed upon. His Eminence Archbishop Timothy took all to Antone's Italian Restaurant for dinner where all enjoyed some relaxation and good food. On May 19^th, before the departure of Archbishop Cyril and Father Edward Hanna, His Eminence Archbishop Cyril celebrated morning prayers in St Nicholas Chapel at St Sophia's with all the clergy attending. We were all very happy to have been there and to hear the prayers chanted in Syriac, and to receive a blessing from His Eminence. In a letter to His Beatitude and Archbishop Timothy after the visit, His Eminence Archbishop Cyril express his (and Father Hanna's) gratitude and appreciation, and commended His Beatitude for his desire and efforts to place the Archdiocese back in union with the Holy See and Patriarchate of Antioch. His Beatitude made it a point to emphasize that our purpose is reunion because separation from the Mother Church is no longer wanted by the American Archdiocese. His Grace Bishop Joshua and His Grave Bishop John could not be present but sent their best wishes for the gathering. This was a very historic meeting because prelates from both jurisdictions have not met together for approximately 80 years.

ARCHDIOCESE TO CONSIDER PROPERTY IN PENNSYLVANIA

[Locust Gap PA] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen announced that he, and members of the Chancery, would be visiting several properties in Locust Gap Pennsylvania that are for sale to see if any would benefit the work of the Church. The buildings include a church and a building that closely resembles a monastery. The visit will take place sometime before July 10, 2010. It is the intention of the Holy Metropolis and Archdiocese to establish the headquarters of the Church in Locust Gap.

DEFECTIVE ORDINATION OF BISHOP

From Chancery Office of the Metropolis

[Cleveland OH] As printed in the previous edition on Simeon Anderson, additional information proves that his orders were totally without substance. The unsubstantiated (and now reputed) claim that Simeon Anderson was ordained a priest in the Roman Catholic Church is now coupled with his invalid ordination in an independent jurisdiction (was known as: Independent Greek Orthodox Church) under one named Archbishop Timotheos of Arizona.  In October 2006, at a hearing was called at St Anthony Monastery in Cleveland Ohio. It was instigated by ("Bishop") Sava Cosas and ("Father") Simeon Anderson to question the validity of Archbishop Timotheos. The clergy meeting under His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, who was surprised at what was going on, and after a complete review of documents, found that Archbishop Timotheos was not validly ordained or consecrated in the Orthodox Catholic Church. It was not made known to His Beatitude or His Eminence Archbishop Timothy that Simeon Anderson was ordained by this man previously. Simeon Anderson was consecrated a bishop by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy during the visit in October 2006. However, after His Eminence left, the day after, Timotheos was consecrated a bishop by Sava Cosas and Simeon Anderson, the very man claimed by Simon as making his a priest. This is not considered to be valid and the ordination to priest of Simeon Anderson has been decreed as invalid as well. Simeon Anderson now serves an independent and unrecognized jurisdiction known as the Orthodox Church of France who made no investigation at all prior to accepting him, or also deposed bishop Cyril Cranshaw.

The Archdiocese of the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church does not recognize any Sacraments (other than baptism) of the Simeon Anderson "diocese" he claims to have, or any performed by Cyril Cranshaw. The depositions were issued by the Holy Metropolis and can only be removed by the same. The Romanian Orthodox Patriarchate severed ties with the Orthodox Church of France, and does not recognize any of its activities. Those who have been led astray by the maligning and slanderous writings of Simeon Anderson should consider making peace with the Archdiocese soon. "There are two licensed providers who fell prey to such and we are awaiting their reconciliation", according to His Eminence Archbishop Timothy.

(Reprinted from last edition.) The Office of the Cardinal in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago Illinois sent a letter to His Eminence Archbishop Timothy advising that Simeon Robert Anderson, deposed bishop of our jurisdiction, was never a priest or professed monk of the Roman Catholic Church. Simeon Anderson told many people that he was once a priest in the Roman Catholic Church, but never substantiated this claim. He found a bishop in France that is independent to take him in as a deposed bishop, and is not the only deposed bishop in this Orthodox Church of France. It is believed that this group is one of the schismatic fragments of the time when the Orthodox Church of France was dissolved by the Romanian Patriarchate.

DONATIONS TO THE METROPOLIA

"Giving to Glorify God" (Matthew 6: 1-4). The Syro-Russian 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." Donation statements upon request.

Our appreciation to the following for their support:

• Anonymous (New York) $30.00
• Anonymous (Rhode Island) $10.00
• Anonymous (Ohio) $50.00
• Convent of St Mary (California) $200.00
• Holy Trinity Bookstore / Gift Shop (Ohio) $150.00
• Father Michael Ginnello (Indiana) $40.00
• Mr & Mrs Salvatore Mondina (Missouri) $25.00

You are asked to consider a donation to help the Metropolia with all its missions and programs by sending yours to the Metropolis, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield Ohio 44406; or by using your credit card to make a donation through PayPal at http://www.rbsocc.org/donations.html. All donations are tax-deductible. Please make it out to "Syro-Russian Archdiocese."

INVITATION TO INDEPENDENT/SCHISMATIC CLERGY

From Archdiocesan Chancery
April 17, A.D. 2010

[Canfield OH] His Eminence Archbishop Timothy, with the blessing of the Holy Metropolis, announced that he would prepare a letter of invitation to various clergy who trace their apostolic lines back to His Beatitude Metropolitan Timotheos, and some others, inviting them to consider union with our God-protected Archdiocese. The Archdiocese is starting this effort to bring sincere clergy outside the Church back into union with its Archdiocese. This was discussed with the Patriarchal Legate of the Holy See of Antioch, His Eminence Archbishop Mar Cyril. This invitation will begin going out to independent clergy around the first of July 2010. A screening process will be used to make certain that those applying are sincere and that their ordinations are acceptable. There exist many independent and schismatic groups that claim a history from His Beatitude Metropolitan Mar Timotheos. What the Archdiocese desires to do is bring together in union those who are legitimate and of sound Orthodox Catholic Faith but currently outside the jurisdiction of our Archdiocese.

COMMITTED AND GOOD PRIESTS ARE BETTER THAN JUST PRIESTS

By His Eminence Archbishop Timothy

Those who accept the call to study for the priesthood accept a great responsibility, i.e., service and defense of the Church of our Lord, and the same for its faithful. "Vocation" is a word that comes from the Latin vocare that means, "to call." This word originated in Christianity, and is used specifically for occupations to which a person is drawn to, specially trained or qualified for, or believed called to by God. In the ecclesial sense, God calls one to the service of the Church, whether it is a religious brother or sister (nun), a lay reader, a subdeacon, a permanent deacon, or a priest.

In the Roman and Orthodox Catholic Churches this idea of vocation is especially associated with a divine call to service to the Church and humanity through particular vocational life commitments, e.g., administration of the Holy Mysteries (Sacraments), pastoral care and counseling, and other ministries of the Church. Some men wishing to become priests are infatuated with the respect the vocation receives, the clothing that the priest wears, the title of "Father", the powers entrusted to the clergy, or some other aspect of the vocation. However, this infatuation alone is not a calling. Certainly those truly called are in awe over these aspects in many cases, but their main reason in becoming priests is the closeness to God in the holy ministry to humanity established by Christ. He is not absorbed in what others are doing but concentrates on what he is doing for the Church. Certainly priests do concern themselves with the administration of a parish church as well as the Church itself, but they realize their own human failings and try daily to better them and, by doing so, helping to better others.

Being just a priest is not good enough, one must be a good priest committed to the Church and all its ministries. This commitment means that he must give his all to an established parish and all within it, or the building of a parish where none exists – if that were his assignment. Yes, time, effort, and even some funding is involved, but what he is doing is for God first, then the Church and its hierarchy. Those who do make it to the priesthood who do not have true commitment and a willingness to accept pain, suffering, and the giving up of certain enjoyments in order to build or enhance a parish and the parish life involving its faithful will not make it. They will fall by the wayside. Some of these men when they fail will often blame another for their failings or even the Church. However, they will be judged in the end for what they have done – not what others have done. The Church needs more vocations to the religious life and the priesthood, and we pray that there are those reading this who feel "called" to this service, and who have commitment to such a service.

CHRIST THE PANTOCRATOR SOVEREIGN ORDER OF CHIVALRY

[Metropolia] Those interested in joining the Order of Chivalry and being part of Induction Class for 2011, or wishing more information, are asked to send their petition and bio-data to the Metropolia by no later than March 1^st, 2008.

For information:
Christ the Pantocrator Sovereign Order of Chivalry
His Eminence Archbishop Timothy
7815 Akron Canfield Road
Canfield OH 44406.

ST SOPHIA MONASERY INN & RETREAT CENTER
SITE OF 2010 SYNOD AND COMMISSION CONFERENCE

[Canfield OH] St Sophia's Monastery Inn was established on November 1, 2009 but officially opened on February 1, 2010. It now has the Monastery Inn which provides overnight lodging to travelers, low housing apartments for those on low incomes, a bookstore and gift shop (Holy Trinity), and St Nicholas Chapel. All these are in operation, but the retreat center has not been opened yet. The property there also has an outdoor shrine surrounded by flowers, and a beautiful flowerbed that adorns a beautiful outdoor icon of Christ the Pantocrator. Currently, four apartments are rented, and there are six resident assistants in the homeless program offered living on the grounds. His Eminence Archbishop Timothy currently administers to the Monastery Inn assisted by Father Anthony Luebke. St Sophia's is located at 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield Ohio. The 2010 Synod and Conference will be held at this location.

HOMELESS PROGRAM NEEDS DONATIONS

[Canfield OH] St Sophia Monastery Inn offers homeless men a home and guidance in return for work on the grounds. This program of the Archdiocese has helped over forty men in the last four years. Seven of these men have been chrismated into the Orthodox Catholic Church coming from pasts that did not include any real affiliation. Currently, six men are being cared for at St Sophia's that includes the room they are in, the food they eat, 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 Sophia Monastery, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield OH 44406, or you may do so on your credit card through PayPal. Please make checks payable to "Commission." We are 501(c)(3) tax exempt. Thank you.

BLESSED THEOTOKOS MARY – EVER VIRGIN
2^nd Installment of this Series

By His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen
June 8, A.D. 2010

In this continuing article on the Blessed Virgin Mary we will focus on the virgin birth of Christ God, and her ever virginity upheld by the Church. Many think that just the Roman and Orthodox Catholic Churches, the Anglican Church, and some Protestants uphold this belief, but few realize that Islam also teaches and believes this as a doctrinal truth. When the Archangel Gabriel announced to Mary that she was to be the mother of our Savior, Jesus Christ, she was unblemished and only a young woman still in her teens. This doctrine is said by many as we recite the two most widely used Creeds of the Christian Faith, e.g., the Nicene Creed, which states that Jesus "was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary." It was universally held as a belief throughout the Christian Church by the second century. The Apostle's Creed in its now familiar form states "and was born of the Virgin Mary." The gospels of Matthew (1:18) and Luke (1:26-35) say that Mary was a virgin and that Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit. This is accepted as a "miracle" as no natural father was involved and no sexual intercourse was performed. St Joseph was only the foster-father of Jesus Christ, and as husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary never had any sexual intercourse with her, respecting her as the mother of Our Lord. In the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches the term "virgin birth" not only implies that Mary was a virgin when she conceived, but that she gave birth as a virgin, i.e., virgo intacta (untouched virgin).

The whole meaning of title Virgin Mary is that Mary's virginal conception of Jesus was something that existed before and after her giving birth to our Lord. This is not to be confused with the Roman doctrine of Immaculate Conception that does not have reference to the birth of Christ, but rather that the Blessed Mother was conceived herself without stain, i.e., original sin that we are all born with except for Jesus Christ. As stated earlier, this belief is also a tenet of Islam. Muslims refer to Jesus with the matronymic "Jesus son of Mary" (Isa bin Maryam), a term repeatedly used in the Qur'an. The New Testaments has four accounts of Jesus' life known as the Holy Gospels. The Gospels of St Matthew and St Luke both begin with the genealogy of Jesus. These gospels give a clear report on Jesus' birth and the fact that He was conceived without a human father. The original Greek text states: "When Mary was found to be pregnant, she had not lived with Joseph, to whom she was engaged, and that he did not have marital relations with her before the child was born."

Hebrew has a specific word, betulah, for a virgin, and a more general word, almah, for a young woman. Since almah is the word used in the Hebrew text of Isaiah, some have believed it at least possible that Isaiah had in mind only a normal conception by a young mother and that Matthew applied this text to the birth of the one he believed to be the Messiah. There are some that believe that Isaiah was directly prophesying the future virgin birth of the Messiah. Scholars of the Early Christian Church referred to a Gospel of the Hebrews as the true Gospel of Matthew, or Matthaei Authenticum. This gospel was written in Aramaic using Hebrew letters, and omits the virgin birth account. Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but the Holy Family then moved to Egypt to escape Herod the Great, and later to avoid Herod's son, Archelaus, they moved to Nazareth but traveled to Bethlehem to comply with a Roman census. There are many passages in Holy Scripture that attest to the virgin birth of Jesus. The Holy Theotokos Mary is truly blessed and truly ever virgin. May God's blessings and graces be upon you all.

ORTHODOX BITS N' PIECES

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Q. What is an indult? George Kaloutsis (Los Angeles CA)

A. An "Indult" is an official statement issued from a Church authority granting something to be done that is not usually allowed. It is a privilege or permission to stray from the normal policies of a jurisdiction, e.g., giving a parish permission to use a different liturgical rite other than the one(s) already permitted.

Q. What is a chorbishop? Maryann Gallo (Chicago IL)

A. Chorbishops are priests who have been blessed with this title allowing them to bless new churches, ordain into minor orders, oversee a certain portion of a diocese or the Archdiocese, but not having the right to ordain to major orders. Chorbishops may be chosen from among the married or celibate clergy, although married ones never become bishops unless their spouse should pass on.

Q. Who is St Gregorios of Parumala? Jeff Nolan (South Bend IN)

A. St Gregorios is the first saint to be glorified in the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Orthodox Church. Parumala, a small town in Pathanamthitta district in Kerala India is where the Tomb of St Gregorios is located. His feast day is November 2^nd although some commemorate his feast on November 1^st and 2^nd. The tomb holding his remains draws thousands upon thousands of people annually who come from all over India and many other countries. The government in India has recognized the site as the International Pilgrim Center. The tomb is also visited daily by thousands of pilgrims from all over who come to pray at the tomb of this great saint. Miracles and many other wonders have been witnessed at his tomb. He was a holy man who fought for social reform and served humanity without ceasing and doing all he could.

Q. Please explain what Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite of the Liturgy is. Tony Colombo (St Louis MO)

A. In our Archdiocese there is allowed bi-rituality, i.e., the use of both the Byzantine and Occidental rites. Because of the liturgical history of our Archdiocese, we have as our primary liturgy that of St Gregory, also known as, St Peter. It is a Byzantinized Western Rite having elements of both Byzantine and West contained in one liturgy, as do some other jurisdictions using this liturgy. We do not refer to it as a "Western Rite" but simply as the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Liturgy of the Mass.

Q. What is the difference between Antiochian and Antiochene? Omar Esquilin (Canfield OH)

A. Antiochian is more commonly used in the title of the Church and in reference to its followers, e.g., Syriac-Greek Antiochian Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church. It identifies where we trace our roots to although being an American Church. Antiochene is used to describe the rites of the Church, e.g., Antiochene Rite or Syriac-Greek Antiochene Liturgy. It is also used when making reference to our Synod of Bishops, i.e., Syriac-Greek Antiochene Synod. It is also used to describe the theology of a jurisdiction, i.e., Antiochene Theology. In essence they mean the same, i.e., from or of Antioch. The word "Antiochene" is used more like an adjective.

Q. Can a deposed bishop still function as one? Nick Castallanos (Portage IN)

A. No! There are some deposed clergy who will find schismatic or unrecognized (obscure) groups that will take such clergy in without a second thought, but the deposition remains in force from the issuing Church until it is lifted, when the cause is reconciled. Ordinations performed by a deposed bishop are without grace and validity, and those ordained by such a person would be ordained again in any canonical Church, and deposed clergy cannot effect the Epiclesis for a valid Liturgy.

*** If you have a question or something to share, please send it to . ***

Send your questions to the editor by e-mail or by mail at Editor, OCH, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield OH 44406, for inclusion in the next edition of the OCH.

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 Eminence Archbishop Timothy at rbsocc@juno.com or St Sophia Monastery Inn and Retreat Center, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield OH 44406. If you are interested in assisting the Archdiocese in establishing a mission parish in your area, please write to us.

FAST ISLAMIC GROWTH IN THE WORLD

Charles Mercieca, Ph.D. (June 5, 2010)

President
International Association of Educators for World Peace
Dedicated to United Nations Goals of Peace Education,
Environmental Protection, Human Rights & Disarmament
Professor Emeritus, Alabama A&M University

In spite of the fact that many in the world view Islam as a "dangerous and fanatic religion," this religious culture, which was provided to the world by Prophet Muhammad, is growing and spreading much faster than it could possibly be anticipated. The reason of this cannot be attributed to negative elements, such as those revealed by the Jihadists who tend to act like the Supreme Being is a God of hatred and revenge.

Elements of Some Basic Religions
On the contrary, the vast majority of Muslims have proven to be good people who view the Supreme Being as a God of love and mercy whose policy with all of His children is always to love dearly everyone with patience, determination, and perseverance. Muslims in general have a lot of things in common with both Jews and Christians. These three well-known religions all claim belief in the Bible, commonly known as the Old Testament. Moreover, they all claim to be the descendants of Abraham. This means, they all believe in the Ten Commandments that God gave to Moses. They view such commandments as sacred, even though these three great religions have periodically disregarded such laws, under various pretences or disguises. For example, they hardly ever heed to the words of the Master Teacher of Nazareth who said to Peter: "Put the sword away for he who kills by the sword will die by the sword." This was in line with God's Commandment, which says: "You should not kill." Unfortunately, the history of such religions abides in numerous struggles and wars where millions of innocent people were killed or left maimed for life. Another of God's Commandment says: "You should not tell lies." Many statements made by the governmental leaders of these respective three religious cultures have revealed periodically deception as well as lack of love and respect for fellow human beings everywhere. Another of God's Commandment's says: "You should not steal." A mere glance at the history of war reveals that the ultimate goal was to confiscate, that is, to steal the property of others by force. Going back to the early days of creation, we learn of God's intended plan when he said to Adam and Eve: "Increase and multiply." This explains that why after so many thousands of years, the world had exceeded six billion people. These may be viewed as God's pride and delight, as God's angels adorned with a body blessed with numerous gifts. Among such gifts we find that of speech and eyesight, as well as that of hearing, smelling, and feeling. These are viewed as essential qualities of the human body, which are known to be very beneficial.

Rapid Increase of Islam
In recent times, in both Europe and North America the world has noticed a rapid decrease in population, especially among Christians. At the same time, there has been a rapid increase in population among Muslims to the extent that in merely fifty years all of Europe and North America are expected to be mostly Islamic. Children have always been viewed as God's blessing. Since the Muslims seem to demonstrate more respect and gratitude toward such a type of blessing, they may likely dominate the western culture of civilization in due time. In order for us to get a good grip of this reality, we need to open the attachment above to see with clarity the real demographic situation that confronts us. Of course, it would be in the best interest of Muslims, as well as of Christians and Jews in addition to people of other religions, to prepare for our future generations a solid ground for harmony and peace based on mutual love and respect. Those responsible for the Islamic faith have the sacrosanct responsibility to turn the Jihadists from an agency of apparent hatred and revenge into one of eventual love and compassion. Just as we do have Jews and Christians who, at times, they misinterpret both the Old and New Testament, we also have Muslims who, at times, they misinterpret the Koran that is viewed to be the holy book of the Islamic faith. The Jihadists tell us that, in the name of God, they wage holy wars as supposedly stated in the Koran. The problem here does not lie in the eventual "waging of wars in the name of God." The problem lies in the elements we choose to wage a war against, which is done in the name of God.

Such elements cannot be God's children whom He loves so dearly and so mercifully. Such elements consist merely of our sins. Hence, when someone hurts me deeply and I feel I should fire back. At that time I should wage a jihad against my instinct of retaliation by taking a deep breath, look lovingly at the one who hurt me and react by even doing something nice and beneficial to such a person. This way I will give myself the opportunity to demonstrate that I am an image of the true loving and merciful God, the creator of heaven and earth.

METROPOLIS ASKS PRIESTS TO BECOME MORE ACTIVE IN MINISTRY

[Canfield OH] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen advised clergy at the Metropolis, and others, that being a priest means much more than putting on the clerical garb. Priests are to actively establish parishes in their locations that will serve the people of God. The priesthood is not a service to one's self, but to others. Those who fail to open a mission parish or chapel, that is open to the public, fail to honor the priesthood of Christ, and the vows made to the Church. His Beatitude has dedicated this year, 2010, to the establishment and growth of parishes throughout the world under the Metropolis. He calls on all clergy to go and teach others about the Orthodox Catholic Church, and to establish a place where all can worship God, along with the priest, every Sunday and Holy Day. The priesthood is a gift – a talent – that should not be buried but should be proudly used in honor of Christ God, He who made this possible. The Archdiocesan Chancery will give guidance to any priest who is having difficulty in organizing his mission simply by contacting us by email, mail, or by telephone. There are many ways to serve, e.g., hospital chaplaincies, nursing homes, prison ministry, and starting a religious education program in the rectory for those interested. Placing ads in the local papers is also a good way to let others know of your presence.

ST MICHAEL & ALL ANGELS MISSION TO CONTINUE

[St Cloud MN] The Archdiocese has announced that St Michael & All Angels Mission Parish will continue in St Cloud Minnesota despite the removal of its priest, Father Steven Johnson. Reader Leo Olson will administer to the mission with the assistance of Father Vladimir Raasch, a visiting supply priest from another Orthodox Diocese. Father has a long association with the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Archdiocese, and he will serve as priest-in-charge. The current plan is to have Liturgy celebrated twice per month and Holy Days, with Reader Leo Olson serving the Typica on the other two Sundays each month. More information will be announced in the next "Orthodox Christian Herald."

NEW BOOKSTORE & GIFT SHOP FOR ARCHDIOCESE

[Canfield OH] Holy Trinity Bookstore and Gift Shop is now open at St Sophia Monastery Inn and Retreat Center, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Room 3, Canfield Ohio 44406. Father Anthony Luebke is the manager of the new bookstore that will hold its grand opening on February 11, 2010. The bookstore offers books on many topics in Counseling, General Studies, Healing, Religion, Scripture, Theology, and more. It also offers many beautiful gifts from Egypt, England, Greece, Italy, Russia, and items from the United States. It also offers many religious articles and icons, and collectible items that are one of a kind, and those that are hard to find. You can request more information and catalog from the address above or by calling 330.533.4048 and ask for the bookstore or listen to the prompts.

HANDMADE ITEMS FROM UGANDA ON SALE AT BOOKSTORE/GIFT SHOP

[Canfield OH] Father Christopher Tamale sent some beautiful handmade items from Kiboga Uganda to be sold at Holy Trinity Bookstore & Gift Shop in Canfield Ohio. 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 St Sophia Monastery Inn, Holy Trinity Bookstore, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield OH 44406. You can call (330) 533.4048 and ask for bookstore. You can also just send a cash donation by check or via PayPal. Please mark your donation for Uganda Vicariate.

HEALTH, HEALING, & WELLNESS SECTION
Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing

BIBLICAL HEALTH

DEFENSE OF SPIRITUAL HEALING IN THE BIBLE

By Chester Kylstra

Isaiah 53:5, which is then quoted in 1 Peter 2:24, is a key verse on healing, but it is often misunderstood and misapplied. "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed." The word translated "healed" can mean either spiritual or physical healing. However, the contexts of Isaiah 53 and 1 Peter 2 make it clear that it is speaking of spiritual healing. "He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed" (1 Peter 2:24). The verse is talking about sin and righteousness, not sickness and disease. Therefore, being "healed" in both these verses is speaking of being forgiven and saved, not physically healed.

The Bible does not specifically link physical healing with spiritual healing. Sometimes people are physically healed when they place their faith in Christ, but this is not always the case. Sometimes it is God's will to heal, but sometimes it is not. The apostle John gives us the proper perspective: "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him" (1 John 5:14-15). God still performs miracles. God still heals people. Sicknesses, disease, pain, and deaths are still realities in this world. Unless the Lord returns, everyone who is alive today will die, and the vast majority of them (Christians included) will die as the result of a physical problem (disease, sickness, and injury). It is not always God's will to heal us physically. Ultimately, our full physical healing awaits us in heaven. In heaven, there will be no more pain, sickness, disease, suffering, or death (Revelation 21). We all need to be less preoccupied with our physical condition in this world and a lot more concerned with our spiritual condition (Romans 12:1-2). Then we can focus our hearts on heaven where we will no longer have to deal with physical problems. Revelation 21:4 describes the true healing we should all be longing for: "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

Editor's Note: Licensed Providers must be aware of the calling they have received from God. This "vocation" does not concentrate solely on healing the physical body of persons, but also their spiritual body, i.e., the soul. We often forget that a spiritually unbalanced or sick existence can lead to many physical problems. It is important that providers listen to the concerns of their clients and offer appropriate counseling. One issue to be discussed at Conference 2010 is Spiritual Counseling to Clients.

AVITAMINOSIS "A" EXPLAINED

Avitaminosis A

Author: Robert A Schwartz, MD, MPH

Professor and Head, Dermatology, Professor of Pathology, Pediatrics, Medicine, and Preventive Medicine and Community Health, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School

Co-author(s): Santiago A Centurion, MD, Staff Physician, Department of Dermatology, New Jersey Medical School, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey; Pere Gascon, MD, PhD, Professor and Director, Division of Medical Oncology, Institute of Hematology and Medical Oncology, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona Faculty of Medicine, Spain

Updated: Dec 11, 2009

Vitamin A can be considered the most important vitamin in supporting animal life. Deficiency occurs in endemic proportions in developing countries and is considered to be the most common cause of blindness in children throughout the world. Besides its essential role in vision, vitamin A is also important in cellular differentiation (e.g., growth, reproduction, immune response) and in maintenance of epithelial integrity. No nutritional deficiency is more synergistic with infection than vitamin A. The 2 main mechanisms involved in the prevention of disease are the effect of vitamin A on the immune system and on epithelial integrity. In areas where vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is prevalent, vitamin A repletion reduces child mortality rates by an average of 23%.1 Biannual vitamin A supplementation is a cost-effective and high-impact child survival intervention in countries such as Mozambique. Although VAD manifestations are more common in underdeveloped countries, they are evident in the United States when induced by liver cirrhosis, malnutrition, or alcoholism. When ingested in the presence of fat, vitamin A is well absorbed from the intestinal lumen. It is metabolized, in part, in the intestinal mucosa and is then carried via chylomicra to the liver and other tissues. Most of the vitamin A in the liver is stored as retinyl esters in specialized cells termed stellate cells. Retinol is transported in the plasma on a specific protein called retinol-binding protein.

Once within tissues, retinol is bound by cellular retinoid-binding proteins, cellular retinoid-binding protein I (CRBPI) and cellular retinoid-binding protein II (CRBPII). In these complexes, retinol may be either esterified or further oxidized via retinol to retinoic acid, which ultimately binds to a set of transcription factors in the nucleus. Intracellular retinol in peripheral tissues can also combine with plasma retinol-binding protein within that tissue, or it can be incorporated into retinyl esters in lipoproteins. The cycling between the major storage organs, such as the liver, and epithelial tissues that require vitamin A for cellular differentiation is extensive and efficient. Dietary vitamin A not absorbed in the intestine is excreted in the feces, and inactivated metabolic derivatives are primarily excreted in the urine. When vitamin A intake is low, the absorption efficiency remains high, carotenoid cleavage is enhanced, the plasma transport remains at essentially normal levels, recycling and utilization mechanisms become more efficient, and the excretion of metabolites markedly decreases. When vitamin A intakes are high, the absorption efficiency is reduced, the plasma transport of vitamin A remains the same, recycling becomes less efficient, the oxidation of vitamin A is enhanced, biliary excretion markedly increases, and urinary and fecal excretion is augmented. Thus, under normal physiological conditions, the function of vitamin A is minimally affected by wide variations of intake. Marked reductions in absorption efficiency, whether due to disease, parasitic infestation, or lack of fat in the diet, and impaired liver and kidney functions adversely affect vitamin A status. Deficiencies of vitamin A depress both humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity. The principal effects of vitamin A inadequacy on immune function may be a consequence of impaired growth and differentiation of myeloid tissues. Vitamin A has been labeled the anti-infection vitamin from early in this century, and the reason for this may be due to the depression in plasma retinol caused by infection. The depression in serum retinol levels may expose an individual to inadequate plasma vitamin A concentrations in areas where the dietary intake was already marginal. In particular, vitamin A is specifically important for the integrity of the epithelium and the maintenance of mucosal secretions, which, if impaired, may increase exposure to microorganisms and the risk of infection. Epithelial tissues of the eyes, the lungs, and the gut are impaired by VAD. These are all tissues where epithelial cell turnover is high. In humans, numerous studies using the impression cytology test have shown that low circulating vitamin A levels are associated with an increased risk of epithelial damage in the eye. Impaired gut integrity is common in malnutrition. Damage to the integrity of epithelia and mucosal barriers facilitates translocation of microorganisms and contributes to the increased severity of infections. Thus, low plasma vitamin A levels may compromise immune function by impairing epithelial integrity and by depressing lymphocyte numbers, and, although the capacity of immune cells may still be normal, the overall immune response is depressed.

Vitamin A has essentially 2 roles in ocular metabolism. First, in the retina, vitamin A serves as a precursor to the photosensitive visual pigments that participate in the initiation of neural impulses from the photoreceptors. Second, it is necessary for conjunctival epithelial cell ribonucleic acid (RNA) and glycoprotein synthesis, which helps to maintain the conjunctival mucosa and the corneal stroma. The retina contains 2 distinct photoreceptor systems, the rods and the cones. The rods are responsible for vision in dim or low light, and the cones are responsible for color vision and vision in bright light. Vitamin A is the backbone of the visual pigments for both the rods and the cones, the major difference being the type of protein that is bound to the retinol. In rod cells, the aldehyde form of vitamin A (retinol) and the protein opsin combine to create rhodopsin, which is the photosensitive pigment. When light hits the rod cells, the pigment isomerizes, which leads to the nerve impulse and results in the visual signal. The precise mechanism is still not known, but vitamin A is necessary for the maintenance of the specialized epithelial surfaces of the body. A lack of vitamin A leads to atrophic changes in the normal mucosal surface, with loss of goblet cells, and replacement of the normal epithelium by an inappropriate keratinized stratified squamous epithelium. In addition, the substantia propria of the cornea breaks down and liquefies, resulting in keratomalacia. Loewenthal first described the cutaneous findings associated with VAD in 1933 when he described polygonal papules on the extensor surfaces of the extremities of patients who also had night blindness and xerophthalmia. The skin changes were later coined phrynoderma by Nicholls when he described the findings in East African workers with VAD.

An estimated one fourth to one half million children annually develop keratomalacia and become partially or totally blind, and 13-14 million children exhibit xerophthalmia of lesser severity. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 190 million preschool-aged children live in areas where VAD is known to occur. These areas are mainly in the developing world where an estimated 40% (70-80 million) of the children are likely to be subclinically deficient. Thus, 90-100 million children worldwide are likely to be vitamin A deficient, with the consequence that their health and likelihood of survival are compromised. In 1 Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya and 7 refugee camps in Nepal, VAD was found in 15% of adolescents in Kenya and 30% of adolescents in Nepal. Blinding xerophthalmia, as identified clinically by corneal xerosis, corneal ulcers, keratomalacia, and corneal scars related to VAD, has been documented in children in Pakistan's North West Frontier Province and adjoining Federally Administered Tribal Areas. Mortality rates of 30-60% or more occur for children with keratomalacia and mild xerophthalmia, and the fatality risk for those even subclinically deficient is increased by 20-30%. At any one time, as many as 230 million children are at risk of clinical/subclinical VAD, and, annually, more than 1 million deaths in children are associated with VAD. Females and males are affected equally. Avitaminosis A is most common in children aged 1-6 years, with the most severe, blinding complications affecting children aged 6 months to 3 years. The incidence is skewed toward children because infants born to mothers who are vitamin A deficient have small vitamin A stores at birth and, subsequently, get little from breastfeeding. Furthermore, the demands of rapid growth and susceptibility to infectious disease place an even greater demand on the meager body stores of vitamin A they do possess.

DEATH AND LIFE AFTER PASSING

This section concerns the entire Mystery of Death and the life after death. These are arguably two of the most important subjects a person can grapple with. Yet they are also subjects about which most people are very ill informed.

Dedicated to Our Lord Christ Jesus "Who trampled down Death by death, and upon those in the tombs, bestows Life."

As Dr. Constantine Cavarnos points out in his excellent summation of this topic:

The Orthodox Church has a full and very precise teaching on the questions of the constitution of man, the nature of the soul, the relationship between the body and the soul, the nature of death, Paradise and Hell, and the general destiny of man. This teaching is contained in the writings of the God-bearing Fathers and Teachers of the Church—most notably in the writings of the ascetics and mystics, in the lives of the Saints, and in the Church's Hymnography and Iconography (The Future Life According to Orthodox Teaching).

The purpose of this section of the site is to present the Orthodox Church's profound and deep understanding of the greatest tragedy to befall mankind: his estrangement (spiritual death) from God due to his Fall in Paradise, and the physical death and corruption of the cosmos (Romans 8:19) which followed. Death is without doubt the most perplexing subject known to man. The wisest of the secular sages throughout the centuries of human existence have not been able to unravel, or fully reveal the cause and ultimate meaning of this dilemma. Even less have they been able to help man to deal with it properly. "Only the Christian Faith, which holds fast to the word of the resurrection, offers a certain, a secure and a sure hope for victory over death. And this hope is a gift of God" (The Mystery of Death, p. 114).

We live in a society that worships the body and material possessions (vanity, hedonism, and materialism) and cares little for the soul. Suicide is near its all time high—especially among teenagers—because of the tremendous despair that is generated when a soul made in the image of God is confronted with the meaninglessness and fragmentation of life without God in the modern world. The Orthodox Church has an answer to all of these problems, and offers sure hope for those who are at the end of their rope and may be ready to take their own life. As our Lord once said, "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (St. Matthew 16:26). If you, dear reader, are considering suicide, I encourage you to examine carefully the sure hope that our Lord Jesus Christ can give you in His Holy Church, His very Body!

We also live in a society in which most people have very confused and false understandings of the future life. From the popularity of "near-death experiences" (NDEs), to the typical Hollywood portrayal of bliss beyond the grave regardless of how one lived their life, most people embrace a mish-mash of notions about what is in store for them when their soul parts from their body. These false views of the future life serve to encourage man in his pride, vanity, and carelessness. Ideas have consequences, and these ideas have led innumerable souls to eternal peril. The rise of interest in NDEs over the past decade has not mitigated this problem, as Fr. Seraphim of Platina notes.

Needless to say, [traditional Orthodox writings on death] constitute a reading material infinitely more profound and more profitable than the popular 'after-death' books of our day. Which, even when they are not merely sensational, simply cannot go much below the spectacular surface of today's experiences for want of a coherent and true teaching on the whole subject of life after death. (Preface to The Soul After Death)

For the Orthodox Christian, however, a proper understanding of the future life is essential to living in a God-pleasing, joyous, and fulfilled manner on earth. Orthodox understand that Hell is a choice; that a person's view of the future determines how he or she lives in the present; and that, as St. Isaac of Syria once said: "This life has been given to you for repentance; do not waste it in vain pursuits." Meditation upon one's own death and the Judgment that awaits him is not something that promotes morbid introspection, but rather the true repentance that leads to the fullness of life and joy in Christ. May this soon be your discovery as well. Fr David Cownie inspired this page. It was he who first perceived the need for something of this nature. Fr David is a Priest in the Exarchate of the True (Old Calendar) Orthodox Church of Greece.

From what we have written it is clear that the position of all the above on the subject of death lacks depth and weight. Secular philosophy admits its ignorance and its awe as it ponders the thick and impenetrable darkness that covers the life beyond the grave. The existentialists say that death is the end that reveals our finiteness. But these fashionable philosophers of our time are not right. Death is not the end; it is the beginning of the true life that awaits us beyond the grave, if indeed we have begun to live it here. Christ, "the resurrection and the life" (John 11,25), came, was crucified, resurrected, ascended to heaven and waits for us there, as He assured us: "I go (to heaven) to prepare a place for you" (John 14,2). Therefore, death does not reveal our finiteness; it reveals our infiniteness, our eternity. This is why the Christian meditates and ponders upon the mystery of death in a way that is productive, positive and dynamic. For this present life is an arena in which the great battle is waged for the sake of immortality and eternity.

 APPOINTMENTS & ASSIGNMENTS

• His Grace Bishop Joshua appointed Episcopal Vicar over the States of North Carolina and South Carolina for the Archdiocese by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy, effective July 1, 2010.
• Dr Vasilios (Basil) Gikas appointed Metropolis Legate for Ecclesiastical Affairs in Greece.
• Mr Omar Esquilin appointed Metropolis Liaison for Hispanic Affairs by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, effective March 20, 2010 (intern) and again on June 14, 2010 officially assigned to the Archdiocesan Chancery and Metropolis.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Baptisms & Chrismations

• Vincent D Cappabianca chrismated at St Nicholas Chapel, Canfield Ohio, by Father Anthony Luebke, and sponsor was Archbishop Timothy. (March 28, 2010)

Commissioning of Licensed Provider

• Dr Andrew Gill commissioned and blessed in the Commission on Religious Counseling & Healing by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy during the Divine Liturgy of the Mass on Monday April 5, 2010 at St Nicholas Chapel, Canfield Ohio.

Stewards of the Holy Metropolis

The following were inducted:

• Very Rev Archimandrite Anthony Luebke (04.07.10)
• Dr Mark Green (03.06.10)
• Dr Douglas Phillips (03.31.10)

Forthcoming Ordinations Announced

The Holy Metropolis has announced the approval of the following men to be ordained priests and deacons for the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Vicariate of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The date to be announced. Those subdeacons that will be ordained Deacon and then Priest on the following day because of the length of time they have been waiting are listed first.

Candidates for the Diaconate/Priesthood:

• Subdeacon Kabangi Floribert
• Subdeacon Laurent Kabosani
• Subdeacon Joachim Kingwesi
• Subdeacon Joseph Mabedi
• Subdeacon Denis Mpongo Malumba

Candidates for the Diaconate:

• Subdeacon Francois Bazaba
• Subdeacon Aime' Manzensa

INCARDINATIONS PENDING / APPROVED

• His Grace Bishop Ignatius Ozando Benuk of Zambia (Africa)
• Father Anthony Macfonse Osmond of Nigeria (Africa) incardinated into Archdiocese on April 27, 2010.

PAROCHIAL CHARTERS

Established:

• St Cyril of Alexandria Chapel, Winston-Salem NC (05.20.10)
• St John Church, Zambia (Africa) (06.20.10)
• St Michael the Archangel Parish, Melbourne Victoria (01.30.10)

DISCIPLINARY MATTERS

• Father Steven Johnson, whose official laicization is pending an official letter from the Archdiocese, and a review of records by the Chancery, has been granted provisional laicization by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy until the matter is completely decided. He has been relieved of all sacerdotal and administrative duties at St Michael & All Angels Mission in St Cloud Minnesota as of June 1, 2010.

OFFICIAL FROM HOLY METROPOLIS

His Grace Bishop Joshua – (04.26.10.1) His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen accepted the request of His Grace Bishop Joshua of North Carolina to return to the active ministry of the Church, and cancel his retirement. He continues to serve in the Synod of Bishops with jurisdiction in Winston-Salem NC.

Relic of St Nicholas of Vounenon – (02.01.10.1) The Metropolis requests that all clergy obtain a relic of St Nikolaos of Vounenon that was sanctified for our Archdiocese in March 2008. Please write or email the Metropolis about obtaining one for your parish. This is a directive and not a request.

Commemoration of Patriarch of Antioch – (01.15.10.1) The Primate has decreed that as of Sunday January 31, 2010 all priests and bishops of the Metropolis shall begin to commemorate His Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Zakka I of Antioch in all Divine Liturgies (Masses). He shall be commemorated at the Great Litany in both the Liturgies of St John and that of St Gregory just before our Primate, Metropolitan Stephen. If there are any questions, please contact the Archdiocesan Chancery.

PRAY FOR THE SICK AND SUFFERING

• His Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Zakka of Antioch
• His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen (Ohio)
• His Eminence Archbishop Timothy (Ohio)
• His Eminence Archbishop Anthony (New York)
• Archdeacon John DeMeis (New York)
• Mr Andrew Lucas (Illinois)
• Mr Carl Maus (Maryland)
• Rev Mother Helena (Bofey) SCSB (African Congo)
• Mr Bryan Thomas (Ohio)
• Mrs Sherry Ellison (South Carolina)
• Father Seraphim Kanagaratnam (Malaysia)
• VR Archpriest Thomas Dillon (New Jersey)
• Mr Hampton Bumgarner (New Jersey)
• Father Paul Jensen (Texas)
• Dr Audrey Daniel DCh (South Carolina)
• Dr Marge Ebeling DCh (Arizona)
• Mr Vincent D Cappabianca (Ohio)
• Mrs Toni Jovanovic (Indiana)
• Mr Omar Esquilin (Ohio)
• Mr Alexi J Mason (Arizona)
• VR Father Paul Jensen (Texas)
• Mr Vincent Colombo (Indiana)
• VR Archimandrite Anthony Luebke (Ohio)
• Father Patrick Lemming (Tennessee)
• Father Sebastian Robles (Canada)
• Father Padraig Kneafsey (Ireland)
• Dr Karla VonEhrenkrook DCh (Arizona)
• Mr Howard Youngheim (Indiana)
• Ms Sandra Wiechnik (Indiana)
• Dr Joseph Bannon DCh (California)
• Deacon Thomas Monroe (Colorado)
• Our Armed Forces everywhere, who are suffering, injured, or who have lost their lives protecting the freedom of others.
• For all our God-loving Bishops, Priests, Deacons, Seminarians, Monks, and Nuns, both living and dead, and especially our Most Reverend 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.

You are asked to consider a donation to help the Metropolia with all its programs by sending yours to Metropolis, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield Ohio 44406; or by using your credit card to make a donation through PayPal at http://rbsocc.org/donations.html. All donations are tax-deductible.

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 2,900 people and growing.

Framed Icon of St Panteleimon, Patron of Healers Available from the Archdiocesan Chancery, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield OH 44406, 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.

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.

Revised (2008) and Final Edition - A Treatise on Chiropathy: The Holistic Healing Ministry is now available from Commission on Religious Counseling & Healing, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield OH 44406. The cost is $25.00 and includes Postage and Handling. All chiropaths must have this in their library.

SYRIAC-GREEK ANTIOCHIAN PARISHES AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE ARCHDIOCESE

Archdiocese of the Americas & Dependencies - Write to His Eminence Archbishop Timothy, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield OH 44406.

Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing CRCH.RBSOCC.ORG For information write - Archbishop Timothy, St Sophia Monastery Inn, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield OH 44406. 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, Father 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 St Sophia Monastery Inn and Retreat Center, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield OH 44406. The Community has monastic centers in the African Congo, Nigeria, 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 Eminence Archbishop Timothy is the interim Archabbot.

All Saints Chapel, Anchorage Alaska, Chorbishop Haralambos Winger, Pastor.

All Saints of Ireland Eastern Orthodox Catholic Parish, County Cork Ireland; Father Padraig Kneafsey, Pastor.

Holy Ghost Eastern Orthodox Catholic Chapel, Oceanside California, Very Reverend Archpriest Stephen Lawrence, Pastor.

Ss Cosmas and Damian Eastern Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 785 Grand Avenue #206, Carlsbad California. Very Reverend Archpriest Stephen Lawrence, Pastor.

St George the Great Martyr Eastern Orthodox Catholic Parish, Pueblo Colorado, Fr Deacon Thomas Monroe, Administrator.

St Luke the Physician Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Mission Parish, VR Father Paul Jensen, Pastor, 339 NE 8^th Street, Paris Texas 75450.

St Michael & All Angels Eastern Orthodox Catholic Parish, St Cloud Minnesota. For information please call 330.533.4048.

St Michael the Archangel Chapel, Melbourne Victoria Australia, Father Michael Krejany, Pastor.

St Nicholas of Myra Eastern Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 7815 Akron Canfield Road, Canfield Ohio. Sunday Liturgy of the Mass at 10:30 a.m.; Holy Days at 7:00 p.m. or as announced; and Holy Unction of the Sick on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.

St Stephen the Protomartyr Eastern Orthodox Catholic Mission , PO Box 2024, Big Bear City CA 92314. Father Seraphim Reed. Write for directions.