PRIMATE'S MESSAGE: "LET US BE ATTENTIVE!"

May 6^th, A.D. 2008

Greetings in the Risen Christ!

Orthodox Christians should be very familiar with the words, "Let us be attentive" that are chanted in every Divine Liturgy. They are said often calling the faithful to be attentive to what is taking place and to their responsibility to listen and respond to what is happening. We hear these words at the Small Entrance, The Epistle, The Holy Gospel, and The Creed to name some. We are called upon to pay attention and truly hear the words that are being spoken (or chanted) to us. We do not simply listen and then forget, but listen and remember and then put what we hear into action. We hear the words of the Epistle and the Gospel that tell us how we should live our lives in keeping with the examples and wishes of Our Lord. We are reminded of our duties to God and our neighbor, and how we should treat ourselves.

However, being attentive reaches far beyond just listening to the words of the Epistles and Holy Gospels, and we are called to be attentive through our actions in many other ways as well. This request has a multi-faceted meaning for us all. As members of the Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church, we are also called to be attentive to the needs of the parish "c"hurch to which we belong, as well as the "C"hurch itself. One of the obligations of every Christian is to support the Church, its missions, and its apostolates to the best of our ability. The biblical tithe is the minimum that we are called upon to give, and to this many conscientious faithful add other donations throughout the year to help with the special needs of the Church. There are many who give without any regret or complaint, others who do complain – but still give, and those who find every excuse not to participate. Some will say "I have no money from pay to pay" but fail to recall the many "good times" they might have had using money; or maybe the number of new magazines subscribed to; or the new bowling ball purchased because the one we already have is not good enough. Maybe we forgot about the lottery tickets purchased, or the cost of eating out nightly. We seem to find the money for a myriad of things, but then comes the time when we are expected to give to God, and we are all out of funds.

Parish churches and missions are also expected to contribute to the Mother Church in order for it to maintain assistance given to all of its missions and apostolates, and to help the Archdiocese. Priests and other clergy who have secular jobs and income are also expected to contribute monthly to the support of the Archdiocese. This is expected in all jurisdictions, Greek, Russian, or other. The time has come when the Metropolis will no longer excuse this obligation of its clergy who are capable of participating. Those who know they should but do not will no longer receive their annual Sacerdotal Faculties and/or Parish Charter until their financial obligations are resolved, unless they have a written exemption in part or full from the Metropolis. We thank God for those who are faithful in this obligation because they help the Metropolis stay viable, as well as the many we serve, but those who are not so faithful at this time must also begin to budget for this. Elsewhere in this issue the new policies governing this matter have been listed. The Metropolis is most compassionate and understanding of the needs among all its clergy and laity, but it also realizes that in order to continue and establish new apostolates and missions money is necessary. Please consider this message and make a resolution to start giving what you can as often as you are able.

With paternal love in Christ,

Metropolitan Stephen

May 8^th, 2008

ENTHRONEMENT OF NEW ARCHBISHOP

Official Announcement from the Metropolis  May 6^th, A.D. 2008

His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, by the Grace of God, V Primate of the Church, will elevate and enthrone His Excellency Bishop Timothy to the Office of Archbishop on Sunday August 10^th, 2008 at 9:30 a.m., at St Patrick Enlightener of Ireland Chapel, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland Ohio. Bishops of the Synod and other clergy from the Archdiocese will assist His Beatitude. Bishop Timothy will become the seventh to hold the position of Archbishop of the Archdiocese of the Americas and Dependencies since 1892, and the first not to be elected or enthroned as a Primate of the Church. Archbishop Daniel (Hinton) was elected Primate but later his election was rescinded and then served only as an Archbishop. The Archdiocesan Ordinary is no longer required to also be the Primate of the Church. He will be granted the title of His Eminence Archbishop of the Americas and Dependencies, and will serve the Primate as liaison between the Archdiocese and the Metropolis. He will be responsible for the spiritual care and welfare of all parishes and missions of the Archdiocese and the faithful belonging to them, and of all tribunals of the Archdiocese. He will also have oversight of the Christ the Pantocrator Sovereign Order of Chivalry, and shall govern the Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing. Other responsibilities will be announced in time. All are invited to attend his enthronement.

METROPOLITAN JOSEPH OF BLESSED MEMORY

By His Excellency Bishop Timothy

Over the past thirteen years, I have learned a great deal about the IV Primate of our Church, His Beatitude Metropolitan Joseph (Sokolowski) who passed away on April 2, 1989. I have read many articles about him, but most of my learning has come from his once Vicar General, Metropolitan Stephen, who knew him personally. His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen has been asked on various occasions if our jurisdiction has any saints, and his reply usually is, "Although not sanctified and decreed as such, we have many saintly men who have served it." Without a doubt, Metropolitan Joseph was one of these great men.

Born in Krakow (Cracow) Poland on October 27, 1903, Metropolitan Joseph came to the United States in 1913. As a young man he entered the Franciscan Community of the Roman Church but later accepted Holy Orthodoxy and left the Franciscan Seminary. He founded St Paul the Apostle Monastery in Rolling Prairie (LaPorte) Indiana in the early 1950's. This man single-handedly planted hundreds of trees and plants which richly decorated the over six acres of property that housed St Paul Monastery and St Mary Mother of God Chapel. He toiled for many years to create a retreat ground that eventually became internationally known and visited by many tourists annually. It was even listed in the Indiana Dunes Guide and other publications. Bishop Francis (Resch) ordained him a priest on May 22, 1961. On March 16, 1970, Metropolitan John (Skureth) ordained him a bishop of the Church. In 1980, after the retirement of Metropolitan John, Metropolitan Joseph became the IV Primate of the Church.

Metropolitan Joseph, who preferred being called "Father Joseph" spent his monastic life and episcopacy working on the property of the monastery and always planting new trees and plants to the many already there, including various exotic species and plants from all over the United States. He also operated a small antique shop on the grounds, which supported the monastery and contained many artifacts that he collected in his travels around the country. Metropolitan Joseph also gave sanctuary to several homeless young men from time-to-time and, although robbed by a couple of them at different times, forgave and accepted them back on numerous occasions. He spent a great deal of time offering them love and compassion, and trying to change their lives so that they would become better human beings. On Sundays and Holy Days, because he was visited by numerous tourists of various nationalities, he would celebrate three liturgies on the monastery grounds, two in St Mary's and another in St Paul's. One liturgy was in English, one in Polish, and he celebrated a Western Rite in Latin for a group of Roman Catholic nuns who visited from Hegwisch Illinois, and several others. He spoke all three languages fluently. This he did until just a few months before his death although he was in much pain due to arthritis that riddled his body and a failing heart. This man always had time for others whether Orthodox Catholic or not.

Recently at Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, I was involved in a conversation about Metropolitan Joseph with Metropolitan Stephen and Bishop Simeon. The issue of Metropolitan Joseph's glorification was brought up. Metropolitan Stephen told us that if anyone should be considered, Metropolitan Joseph of Blessed Memory is top of the list along with Metropolitan Timotheos of Blessed Memory. It should be mentioned here that one of the consecrators of Metropolitan Timotheos, Archbishop St Gregorius (Gheevarghese) (1848-1902) is now one of the holiest saints of the Syrian and Malankara Orthodox Churches. It is my hope that soon this matter will be brought before the Holy Synod of Bishops, and maybe soon our jurisdiction will have its first glorification of a saint, St Joseph (of LaPorte), in its over 116 years of history. In addition to him, and Metropolitan Timotheos, Bishop Joseph (Fekete) of Guatemala who died in Staples Minnesota in 1995, was also another very good and holy man, as was Archimandrite Mark Gielow who died in Colorado in 1994.

PENTECOST – THE BIRTHDAY OF THE CHURCH

From the Great Horologion

Syro-Russian Metropolis (Parts from Orthodox Christian Witness)

A fter the Savior's Ascension in the heavens, the eleven Apostles and the rest of His Disciples, the God-loving women who followed after Him from the beginning, His Mother, the most holy Virgin Mary, and his brethren – all together about 120 souls – returned from the Mount of Olives to Jerusalem. Entering into the house where they gathered, they went into the upper room, and there they persevered in prayer in prayer and supplication, awaiting the coming of the Holy Spirit, as their Divine Teacher had promised them. In the meanwhile, they chose Matthias, who was elected to take the place of Judas among the Apostles.

Thus on the seventh Sunday of Pascha, the tenth day after the Ascension and the fiftieth day after Pascha, at the third hour of the day from the raising of the sun, there suddenly came a sound from Heaven, as when a mighty wind blows, and it filled the whole house where the Apostles and the rest with them gathered. Immediately after the sound, there appeared tongues of fire that divided and rested upon the head of each one. Filled with the Spirit, all those present began speaking not in their native tongue, but in other tongues and dialects, as the Holy Spirit instructed them.

The multitudes that had come together from various places for the feast, most of whom were Jews by race and religion, were called Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and so forth, according to the places where they dwelt. Though they spoke many different tongues, they were present in Jerusalem by divine dispensation. When they heard that sound that came down from Heaven to the place where the disciples of Christ were gathered, all ran together to learn what had taken place. But they were confounded when they came and heard the Apostles speaking in their own tongues. Marveling at this, they said one to another, "Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?" But others, because of their foolishness and excess of evil, mocked the wonder and said that the Apostles were drunken.

T hen Peter stood up with the eleven, and raising his voice, spoke to all the people, proving that which had taken place was not drunkenness, but the fulfillment of God's promise that had been spoken by the Prophet Joel: "And it shall come to pass in the last days, that I shall pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and daughters shall prophesy" (Joel 2:28), and he preached of Jesus of Nazareth unto them, proving in many ways that He is Christ the Lord, Whom the Jews crucified but God raised from the dead. On hearing Peter's teaching, many were smitten with compunction and received the word. Thus, they were baptized, and that day about three thousand souls were added to the Faith of Christ.

S uch, therefore, are the reasons for this feast, the coming of the All-holy Spirit into the world, the completion of the Lord Jesus Christ's promise, and the fulfillment of the hope of the sacred disciples. This is the final feast of the Great Mystery and dispensation of God's Incarnation. On this last, and great, and saving day of Pentecost, the Apostles of the Savior, who were unlearned fisherman, made wise now of a sudden by the Holy Spirit, clearly and with divine authority spoke of heavenly doctrines. They became heralds of the truth and teachers of the whole world. On this day they were ordained and began their apostleship (priesthood), of which the salvation of those three thousand souls in one day was the comely and marvelous first fruit.

S ome believe that Pentecost is not the birthday of the Church (Metropolis of Seattle) believing that the Church existed before all other things. However, the Syro-Russian Metropolis, like the Greek, believe that Pentecost is the birthday of the Church having been founded by Christ, and its Vicar being the Holy Spirit. Both are acceptable in the rightly explained context. From the Complete Book of Orthodoxy by Father George Grube, it states: "Pentecost is a feast celebrated fifty days after Pascha commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit onto the disciples of Christ (Acts 2:1-4). On Pentecost it is a custom to decorate the church with green branches symbolizing new life and power. Pentecost is the birthday of the Church when its mission became a public witness to the world." Its founder, Jesus Christ, is the Church and because He existed before time and always was, then so the Church existed before Christ's nativity and after, when it became visible especially at Pentecost. St John Damascene observes, "The Holy Catholic Church of God, therefore, is the assembly of the holy Fathers, Patriarchs, Prophets, Apostles, Evangelists, and Martyrs who have been from the very beginning, to whom were added all the nations who believe in one accord" (PG 96, 1357c).  According to St Gregory the Theologian, "The Prophets established the Church, the Apostles conjoined it, and the Evangelists set it in order (PG 35, 589a).

That which came to pass at Pentecost, then, was the ordination of the Apostles, the commencement of the apostolic preaching to the nations, and the inauguration of the priesthood of the new Israel. St Cyril of Alexandria says "Our Lord Jesus Christ herein ordained the instructors and teachers of the world and the stewards of His divine Mysteries… showing together with the dignity of Apostleship, the incomparable glory of the authority given them. Revealing them to be splendid with the great dignity of the Apostleship and showing them forth as both stewards and priests of the divine altar… they became fit to initiate others through the enlightening, guidance of the Holy Spirit" (PG 74, 708-712). St Sophronius, Bishop of Jerusalem, writes, "After the visitation of the Comforter, the Apostles became high priests" (PG 87, 3981b). The apostles, at this time, became the first bishops of the Christian Church. Before Pentecost the Apostles only offered prayer and supplication, but after Pentecost, i.e., the coming of the Holy Spirit upon them, they persevered in the "breaking of bread," – i.e., Communion of the Holy Mysteries, "and in prayer" (Acts 2:42). The feast of Holy Pentecost, therefore, determined the beginning of the priesthood of grace, and the public ministry of the Church, that existed before the ages in heaven.

GREATEST MASS DIVORCE

Christian News (May 6, 2000)

In 1075 A.D., Pope Gregory VII forced the world's greatest mass divorce in history upon the papal clergy in Western Europe. This historical tidbit reported in Christian News under the title The Split Between Roman Catholicism and Christ. In that year Pope Gregory VII declared all clerical marriages invalid. Later, the First Lateran Council, in 1125, declared officially, "Our judgment upon marriages contracted by persons of this rank (the clergy) is that they must be broken" (Canon 16). Yet, St Peter himself, from whom contemporary popes claim to derive their authority, was married and had a mother-in-law, whom Christ healed (Matthew 8:14-15). Christ did not declare this marriage invalid. In fact, it was proper and permitted for clergy candidates for the deaconate (diaconate) and priesthood in Western Europe to marry for the first 1,000 years.

So long as he was Orthodox Catholic in his faith, the pope, like all other Orthodox bishops of the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church, was subject to the Church's Apostolic teaching and Holy Tradition (II Thessalonians 2:15). Once he broke away from that Faith (as far as Orthodox Christians are concerned, the pope of Rome is the first protestant), the leader of the papal denomination led his followers further and further astray from the Faith of our Holy Fathers. So, really, his decision to impose "the world's greatest mass divorce" comes as no surprise, considering all the other deviations that can be witnessed in this denomination today.

DOMESTIC PARISHES & PRAYER GROUPS

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 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 Bishop Timothy at  or at Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland OH 44109..If you are interested in assisting the Archdiocese in establishing a mission parish in your area, please write to us.

CHRIST THE PANTOCRATOR SOVEREIGN ORDER OF CHIVALRY

[Metropolia]   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. This may be sent to His Excellency Bishop Timothy, c/o Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland OH 44109.

THEOCENTRISM AND HEALING

By His Eminence Archbishop-elect Timothy

Over the years, there have been some that have thought that the Syro-Russian Church's acceptance of healing outside the sacerdotal and sacramental venues of the Church were alien to Orthodoxy, or perhaps a "New Age" philosophy. Both of these thoughts are far from the truth. The Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church, like most of the Eastern Orthodox Christian Churches, does not condone the majority of practices conducted or taught by the "New Age" groups. We cannot deny that some of their thoughts can be and are acceptable or compatible to Theocentric Healing. Some therapies, like herbology, exist side by side with no contest or conflict, because it is not in conflict with Holy Scripture. In Theocentrism, and the Commission on Religious Counseling & Healing that governs it, we see the Holy Scriptures as being a source of authority for the practice of Chiropathy. It is also the foundation for our licensing of those who are qualified, just as secular organizations see civil law as the source and authority for the licensing of their members.

Theocentrism, as well as the Commission, teaches that God is the center of the universe and is the Source and Upholder of faith, hope, love, meaning, purpose, values, ethics, morals, and healing, as well as the unifying principle of the cosmos. Everything finds existence, value, purpose, and meaning in the infinite and transcendent God. As one writer put it, "Where God is the center of value, all things have value in relationship to Him." Without this infinite reference point, there would be no stable basis for values or any compelling reason for the continuation of life. All human endeavors would be doomed to futility and absurdity. Theocentrism teaches that everything exists for the sake of God and to serve His purposes. There is meaning to human existence, but only as we find our place in the overwhelming divine purpose of the universe. (Theocentric healers and counselors are called to a service dedicated to teaching this philosophy through their practice of healing and/or counseling in the natural disciplines chosen by them. It is then easy to realize why theocentric providers are under the omophor of religion and not the state). What is of God – is God's. In searching the Bible, and sacred writings of the Church Fathers, it is clear that healing is of God, and that many forms have been given to assist in its process, e.g., healing touch, anointing, prayer, herbs, nutrition, dietary laws, aromatherapy, and others.

The Commission is an agency of the Church dedicated to caring for others as Christ Himself taught. It is under the sole omophor of the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church, and very strict policies and statutes govern it. It was established under its current name and mission on June 2, 1986, when it was registered with the Secretary of State (California). The word "Chiropathy" was coined by the Church and Commission and duly registered. Although the word implies "healing with the hands" it reaches far beyond that, e.g., counseling in many areas, i.e., physical, emotional, and/or spiritual. It is also very holistic, e.g., caring for the mind, body, and spirit (soul). Holistic comes from the Greek word "holos" meaning "whole." The system of the whole determines in an important way how the parts behave. Therefore, with theocentric providers (chiropathists and chiropaths) they realize that just treating a physical trauma alone is not enough because the physical affects the emotional and spiritual wellness of a person. It cannot be that just one part, e.g., emotional, is affected and not the others. Our body-temple is a complete creation of God, and all three components depend upon each other. Therefore, the theory that living matter or reality is made up of organic or unified wholes that are greater than the sum of their parts is accurate in theocentrism. The practitioners (providers) of theocentric chiropathy are unique because they depend solely on God, understand Theocentrism, use the gifts of God in healing, and care about a person's wholeness with a desire to keep it in holistic balance.

The Commission serves the healing needs of the Church just as Christ Himself would want it. It is not "New Age" and it is truly within the parameters of the Christian Orthodox faith. In fact, today there are other Orthodox jurisdictions that are advocating "holism" and "healing" among their faithful. However, it must be clearly stated that in no way do these skilled and dedicated providers serve within the sacerdotal healing ministry of the Church, nor do they offer the Mystery of Healing, a.k.a., Sacrament of the Sick. These are reserved to the ordained priesthood of the Church. It was my intention to educate our readers in what the mission is of our Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing. I hope this has been achieved.

ORTHODOX BITS N' PIECES

QUESTIONS

Q. Does the Eastern Orthodox Church allow "thrice pouring" of water over the head at baptism? Tom Simonis, Chicago IL

A. In some jurisdictions, and in the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church, "thrice pouring" of water at baptism is allowed over the head of the person being baptized. Section 7 of the Didache allows for this method of baptism. However, it is not enough to sprinkle water over the head. It must be poured over the entire head, or the priest may dunk the head into a basin of water three times while using the baptismal formula.

Q. Do Orthodox Christians believe in the "Veronica Veil?" Helen Massa, Savannah GA

A. The "Veronica Veil" is a Roman innovation that describes a veil that supposedly wiped the face of Jesus on His way to Golgotha by a woman named Veronica, upon which an image of His face was left. In reality this all stems from a true fact that an "Icon Not Made With Human Hands" existed and was called the "Vera Icona" meaning "True Image"  It is indeed the first icon ever made and was done by Christ Himself. It is also referred to as the "Holy Napkin." King Abgar of Edessa who has leprosy heard many things about Jesus during His persecution in Israel. So the king sent his artist to Israel to draw the face of Christ and return to the king with it that he might be well. The artist tried to capture the face of Christ many times but could not achieve this. Our Lord saw this and took a cloth to His face and a true likeness was impressed on it. Christ had the cloth taken to king who was then cured after he looked at the Holy Napkin. It became known as the "Holy Napkin" or in Latin, "Vera Icona." The original place where it was kept was in Edessa but later moved in A.D. 944 to Constantinople. It became the pattern from which all other icons are made.

Q. Are there any African saints of Orthodox Christianity? James Kerlin, Albany NY

A. The Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church has been blessed with many honorable and holy men and women from the continent of Africa. They have served God and the Church faithfully. Among them are St Mark the Apostle, St Cyprian of Carthage, Ss Perpetua and Felicity (Martyric Mothers), St Anthony the Great, St Isaac of Fayoum, St Pachomius, and St Maurice and the 6600 Martyrs of the Theban Legion. In addition, we are blessed with St Katherine of Alexandria, St Moses the Black, St Mary of Egypt, and St Theodore of Alexandria.

Q. Please explain "Holy Bema" as used in Syro-Russian usage. Anna Youseff, Boston MA

A. The term "Holy Bema" is known in several Eastern Orthodox jurisdictions, and the Syrian Orthodox Church of Antioch. It is also a term that is familiar within the Jewish tradition known as "tebah" and meaning "raised platform." In the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church it refers to the area commonly called the "altar area." It is the portion of the sanctuary that is located behind the iconostasis where only the clergy and servers may enter, and houses the Holy Altar and Prothesis Table, and all the other items used at Divine Liturgy. The ceremonial use of a bema comes from Judaism and was originally a raised platform where Holy Scripture was read and sermons were given. In Eastern Orthodox Churches it is the area behind the iconostas and some also include the area directly before it, i.e., the solea and ambo.

Q. How long is "Christos Anesti" used as a greeting in the Church? John Colby, Kouts IN

A. We greet each other with "Christ is risen" or "Christos anesti" and respond with "Truly He is risen" or "Alithos anesti" from Pascha until Ascension Thursday. This is also sung during the Divine Liturgy at the beginning and after the Dismissal during this time as well.

Q. What is the Byzantine Orthodox Church? Maria Katzoulis, Chicago IL

A. "Byzantine" is just another term for "Eastern" meaning pretty much the same when used with Orthodox. So, the Byzantine Orthodox Church is the Eastern Orthodox Church. This should not be confused with the term Byzantine Catholic which is sometimes used to denote those Eastern Churches who are under the control of the Roman Catholic Church.

METROPOLIA ISSUES STATEMENT ON ANNUAL CHARTERS – MONTHLY OBLATIONS

[Cleveland OH] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen advised the Archdiocesan Vicar General, Bishop Timothy, and the Chancery Administrator, Father Steven Johnson, that effective September 1^st, 2008, no charters or Certificate of Sacerdotal Faculties will be issued to any priest or parish or institution that has not met all Archdiocesan financial responsibilities. The current annual responsibilities are:

1. Clergy must purchase the Syro-Russian Liturgikon and use it in their parishes. The cost, including postage and handling, is $180.00.
2. The Code of Canons and Statutes must be in every parish or owned by every priest. The cost of this book is $70.00 and includes postage and handling.
3. The monthly oblation to the Archdiocese must be paid and current by August 5^th annually. This is not a "Syro-Russian thing" because all jurisdictions have similar policies that are even more enforced in some.

His Beatitude also advised of the requirements for having the monthly oblation partially or fully waived, and they are:

1. The priest must be declared "financially unable" or "indigent" by the Archdiocese based on proof of his annual income and number of dependents. He must submit to the Archdiocese either a current tax-return or filing statement and itemization of annual utility bills and rent or mortgage, or a legal document showing income based on Social Security or State Assistance, and a notarized statement that no other income is received. This does not include food stamps.
2. The priest shall be semi-retired and at least sixty (60) years of age, and without secular employment, or shall have an illness that prohibits him from having secular employment and on SSI.
3. The priest shall be retired without secular employment or government benefits that are in excess of $600.00 per month. If residing in a nursing home, a waiver shall be granted upon verification of where the priest is residing.
4. Parishes wishing to be waived partially or fully from the monthly oblation must show proof of the annual income and number of adult parishioners.
5. Institutions that are having financial difficulty or are in a financial crisis may apply for consideration.
6. Hermitages, and other parochial institutions, that do not generate an income are only responsible for the annual charter fee.
7. A newly established mission parish, monastery or monastic house, or counseling center are exempt from the monthly oblation for the first charter year (regardless of month left in that period), but must pay the charter fee.
8. All those who wish to be considered must file a petition to the Metropolis by mail. The waiver does not become effective until the date issued by the Metropolis.
9. The parish shall be a mission that does not generate more than $10,000.00 per year, and the parish priest shall not receive a secular income.

His Beatitude reviewed the oblation income records of 2006 and 2007. In 2006 the income was 45% below what was expected, and in 2007 it was 40% below what was expected. Those wishing to pay quarterly must request this in writing, and the Metropolis must approve it.

To order the Code of Canons and/or The Liturgikon, or to request special consideration or a waiver from the oblation required, write to Vicar General, Syro-Russian Metropolis, c/o Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland OH 44109. This is the new address of the Metropolis.

APPOINTMENTS & ASSIGNMENTS

• Fr Methodius Scott Bauer named Associate Pastor of St Andrew the Apostle Church in Duluth Minnesota effective on March 15^th, 2008.
• Father Noah Kasule incardinated into the Syro-Russian Archdiocese, pastor of St Cyril Church, Nsinze Uganda, and effective April 28^th, 2008.
• VR Archpriest Spiridon Kisomose incardinated into the Syro-Russian Archdiocese, Dean of St Basil Pro-Cathedral, Kiboga Uganda, and effective April 28^th, 2008.
• Father Sebastian Robles incardinated into the Syro-Russian Archdiocese, priest at St Seraphim of Sarov Mission, British Columbia Canada, and effective April 3^rd, 2008.
• Father George Sempa incardinated into Syro-Russian Archdiocese, pastor of St Athanasios Church, and dean of St Timothy Orthodox School, Kikwatambogo Uganda, and effective April 28^th, 2008.
• Father Seraphim Reed, priest at St Stephen the Protomartyr Mission, Hemet California, and effective May 1^st, 2008.
• Fr Deacon Paul Sebulolo incardinated into Syro-Russian Archdiocese, administrator of St Mary of Egypt Church, Seeta Uganda, and effective April 28^th, 2008.

OFFICIAL FROM METROPOLIA

Issue 1– (05.04.08.1) Clergy of the Archdiocese are expected to be present for the Great Syndesmos of the Synod to be held from August 2^nd – August 7^th, 2008, which precedes the Commission Conference from August 8^th – 10^th, 2008. A waiver of attendance must be requested if you cannot attend from the Metropolis, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland Ohio 44109, stating reason(s).

Issue 2 – (05.04.08.2) 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.

Issue 3 – (05.04.08.3) Father Seraphim Reed granted provisional omophor of the Metropolis by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen pending full reinstatement in August 2008.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

(Birthdays, Weddings, Anniversaries, Remembrances, Et Cetera)

Happy Birthday to Austin Olson who turned 10 years of age in April, and who is a member of St Michael & All Angels Parish in St Cloud Minnesota.

Happy Birthday to Mariah Olson who turned 8 years of age on May 24^th, 2008, and who is a member of St Michael & All Angels Parish in St Cloud Minnesota.

PAROCHIAL CHARTERS

Established:

• St Athanasios Church, Uganda (05.01.08)
• St Basil Pro-Cathedral, Uganda (05.11.08)
• St Cyril Church, Uganda (05.01.08)
• St Mary of Egypt Church, Uganda (05.01.08)
• St Seraphim of Sarov Mission, British Columbia Canada (04.10.08)
• St Stephen the Protomartyr Mission, Hemet California (05.03.08)
• St Timothy Orthodox School, Uganda (05.01.08)

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

Notice From Metropolis

Two persons have been claiming to be a part of the Syro-Russian Archdiocese and having been creating various situations for us. They are deposed bishop Sava (Stefan) Cosas and Bishop Jovan Puric, neither of which are under our Metropolis, or associated with us in any manner. Sava Cosas was deposed by the Ukrainian Orthodox Autocephalous Church in 2007, and has since been laicized and does not have a jurisdiction. He has been associated with various other jurisdictions over the years, including the Syro-Russian for a short time in 2005. Bishop Jovan Puric has been in communication with our Metropolis but is not affiliated with it in any manner. His jurisdiction is highly questionable with no evidence of any apostolic ministries. He also claims to be an Archbishop. Cosas is being investigated for civil and criminal infractions, as well as ecclesial, in Ohio. The domicile of Bishop Jovan is unknown, but has been in California, Arizona, and also in Pennsylvania.

• Subdeacon Mark Ittefaq Bhatti Afzal degraded from his office and laicized for serious offenses against the canons, and violation of Federal Law concerning his R-Visa, effective on May 1^st, 2008.
• Deacon Thomas Monroe, (Pueblo Colorado) temporally suspended from the Holy Diaconate effective April 29^th, 2008.

PRAY FOR THE SICK AND SUFFERING

• Bishop Timothy of Duluth (Minnesota)
• Archdeacon John DeMeis (New York)
• Sister Irene (California)
• Maximus Daven Powe (Minnesota)
• Bishop Cyril of Nicaragua
• Rt Reverend David Bowler (England)
• Father Richard Edey (England)
• Mr Carl Maus (Maryland)
• Mrs Karen Wiser (Minnesota)
• Michael Mason (Missouri)
• Dr Audrey Daniel (South Carolina)
• Dr Marge Ebeling DCh (Arizona)
• Father Paul Jensen (Texas)
• Father Patrick Lemming (Tennessee)
• Dr Karla VonEhrenkrook (Arizona)
• Howard Youngheim (Indiana)
• Sandra Wiechnik (Indiana)
• Dr Katherine Marerro Family (Florida)
• 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 Sisters, 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.

REST IN PEACE!

• + Abbot John of St Nicholas Monastery (North Fort Myers Florida)
• + Armenian Archbishop Papken Varjabedian who was a personal friend of His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen since 1990, and who had a very special relationship with our Archdiocese.
• + Mr Fred W Vondy, close friend and Attorney at Law for the Metropolis from 1989-1994 passed away in Denver Colorado.

Remember Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing Licensed Providers Who Have Passed to God (1993-2008):

• Alva Acers RN (IN)
• Vittorio Barragato PhD (NY)
• Dr Albert DiPietro DCh (NY)
• Dr John Fish MD DC DCh (MD)
• RR Mitred Archimandrite Mark Gielow MDiv (CO)
• Dr Thornton Gravley DSc DC (AL)
• Rev Lawrence Guderian ThD (WA)
• Dr Jane Hartman DCh PhD (NM)
• Rev Fr Robert St Germain-Iler DCh (AL)
• Sister Patricia Jaques PhD DCh (IL)
• Dr Marie Cabak DCh (NJ)
• Very Rev Archpriest Basil Koch PhD (WA)
• Rev Fr Joseph O'Reilly PhD (NH)
• Dr Dennis Pawl DCh (FL)
• Dr Richard Sedlak DN DCh (IL)
• Sister Mary Thomas DCh PhD (CA)
• Dr David Brian Wesley DCh PhD (TX)
• Dr Harry Zerbo PhD (MI)

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, Miller Beach IN ($25.00)
• Anonymous, Valparaiso IN ($5.00)
• Dr Audrey Daniel, South Carolina ($100.00)
• Fr John Karras, Alsip Illinois ($25.00)
• Holy Ghost Chapel (Archpriest Stephen Lawrence), California ($500.00)
• Mr George Costas, St Louis Missouri ($30.00)
• St Luke the Physician Mission, Texas ($20.00)
• VR Fr Anthony Luebke, Cleveland Ohio ($50.00)

Land Donated to Uganda Vicariate

Very Reverend Archpriest Spiridon Kisimose, St Basil Pro-Cathedral in Kiboga Uganda, advised the Metropolis that two parcels of land have been donated to the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church in Uganda. The first parcel was donated by Presbytera Kirilos Pasha, wife of the late Father Kirilios Pasha, to St Cyril Church in Nsinze. The second parcel was donated by Mr Moses Lukwago to St Mary of Egypt Parish in Seeta. The Metropolis was most elated to hear this, and highly commends both for the generous donations to God and the Church. Both donations took place on May 25^th, 2008.

You are asked to consider a donation to help the Metropolia with all its programs by sending yours to Metropolis, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland Ohio 44109; or by using your credit card to make a donation through PayPal at http://rbsocc.org/donations.html. All donations are tax-deductible.

UGANDA PARISHES ACCEPTED INTO ARCHDIOCESE

[Kiboga Uganda] The Metropolis has announced that Father Spiridon Kisomose, St Basil Orthodox Church in Kiboga Uganda; Father George Sempa, St Athanasios Church and St Timothy School in Kikwatambogo Uganda; and Father Noah Kasule, St Cyril Church in Busembatia Uganda have all been canonically received into the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church. The Primate, His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, also received their parishes into the Archdiocese. In addition, Father Deacon Paul Sebulolo, St Mary of Egypt Church in Seeta Uganda, was also received along with his parish. His Excellency Bishop Timothy, in the presence of His Beatitude, commemorated the new parishes during Divine Liturgy at St Patrick Enlightener of Ireland Chapel, on Sunday June 22^nd, 2008, making their acceptance official according to Syro-Russian custom.

His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen decreed St Basil Church in Kiboga the Pro-Cathedral for Uganda. There are approximately 1,000 faithful of the Archdiocese living in Uganda belonging to the four parishes received.

SYRO-RUSSIAN METROPOLIS NOW LOCATED IN OHIO

[Cleveland OH] The Metropolis has moved to Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland Ohio 44109. It is no longer located in Duluth Minnesota, although St Andrew the Apostle Church is still open there, but is no longer considered the Cathedral or Mother Church of the Metropolis. Correspondence to the Metropolitan, Bishop Timothy, or the Commission should be addressed to them at the above address, or to the Syro-Russian Metropolis.

SYRO-RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CATHOLIC METROPOLIS AND UKRAINIAN ORTHODOX AUTOCEPHALOUS METROPOLIS CONSIDER EUCHARISTIC COMMUNION

[Cleveland Ohio] On May 2^nd , 2008, His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, accepting a request for Eucharist Communion from the Ukrainian Orthodox Autocephalous Church in Exile, under His Beatitude Metropolitan Haralambos, prepared and sent the Instrument of Eucharistic Communion that was then sent to Metropolitan Haralambos for review and signing. The Instrument confirms the recognition of Apostolic Succession, Canonicity, and Validity of the Holy Mysteries of the Churches that are involved. It also allows for concelebration of the Divine Liturgy on specific occasions between the clergy of both jurisdictions. It does not allow for the reception of clergy from one jurisdiction to the other without just cause and a written canonical release, an action that neither Primate shall promote. Upon the signing of the Instrument by both Primates, the faithful will be allowed to attend Liturgy at the various parishes involved as necessary, and especially when a parish or priest is not easily accessible of their own jurisdiction.

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 Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland OH 44109. 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 a 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 Father Steven Johnson. All religious items are hand-made to order. For more information and prices please write to Rev Father Steven M Johnson, 1719 South 7^th Avenue, St Cloud MN 56301, or call 320-230-2609.

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 Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland OH 44109.

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 Archdiocese, c/o Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland OH 44109, or email.

Revised (2008) and Final Edition - A Treatise on Chiropathy: The Holistic Healing Ministry is now available from Commission on Religious Counseling & Healing, c/o Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland OH 44109. The cost is $25.00 and includes Postage and Handling. All chiropaths must have this in their library.

PARISHES AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE ARCHDIOCESE

Archdiocese of the Americas & Dependencies, Write to His Excellency Bishop Timothy, (Archbishop-elect), 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland Ohio 44109.

Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing Website: CRCH.RBSOCC.ORG For information write: Bishop Timothy, c/o Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland OH 44109. 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 Chancery Office, Our Lady of Sitka Monastery, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland OH 44109. 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 Ghost Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, Oceanside California, Very Reverend Archpriest Stephen Lawrence, Pastor.

Ss Cosmas and Damian Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, Carlsbad California; Very Reverend Archpriest Stephen Lawrence, Pastor.

St Andrew the Apostle Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church located at 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth Minnesota 55807. Clergy: Father Steven Johnson, Pastor - Father Methodius Bauer, Associate Pastor.  Sunday Liturgy: 10:30 A.M. Telephones: 320-230-2609 or 320-260-5224 or 715-495-2579.

St George the Martyr Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Parish, Pueblo Colorado; Fr Deacon Thomas Monroe, Administrator.

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

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 Patrick Enlightener of Ireland Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 4202 Newark Avenue, Cleveland Ohio; His Grace Bishop Simeon – Very Rev Father Anthony Leubke.

St Thomas the Apostle Syro-Russian Center, 1719 South 7^th Avenue, St Cloud Minnesota; Father Steven M Johnson, Administrator