NATIVITY MESSAGE FROM THE BISHOP COADJUTOR TO THE FAITHFUL OF CHRIST
By His Excellency Bishop Timothy of Duluth
November 10, A.D. 2007
Blessings to All in the Holy Nativity of Our Lord!
As we approach the closing of another year, we become aware that the birth of Our Lord is just around the next month according to the Julian Calendar. The commercialized Christmas is commemorated on December 25th, but the religious-oriented Nativity of Christ is separated from all this so that only Christ is worshipped and honored on January 7th.
Just as the Magi (Wise Men) were guided by a star to the cave where Christ was born 2,006 years ago, we are guided by faith to the kingdom of heaven where He in the Most Blessed Trinity reigns as King. Isn't it only right and just that on the Great Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord, we give only to Him, after all, did He not give us the greatest gift of all – His Life and the Reopening of the Gates of Heaven to us? The idea of Santa Claus is most appreciated, but he cannot take the main place at the table when the day belongs to Christ God. On December 25th (Gregorian) gifts are exchanged with one another to express our love for one another. However, on January 7 th (December 25th Julian) we give only to Christ to express our most supreme and pure love for Him. On this day we should give to the support of the Church in honor of Our Lord's birth.
PRIMATE'S MESSAGE TO THE CLERGY
By His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen
November 17, A.D. 2007
Most Reverend Bishops, Esteemed Clergy and Monastics, Respected Seminarians of the Church, this lowly servant of God, a sinner, your spiritual father, greets you all:
Because of the reasonable structure in the Church that followed the admonitions of St Paul to do all things "decently and in order" (1Cor 15:3), Orthodoxy has substantially the same worship, and exactly the same Creed and belief as the early Apostolic Church. It has withstood many attacks against her integrity and unity. She alone, among Churches, is the same today as she was at the beginning. She alone is the physical presence of her founder, Jesus Christ, here on earth. The bishops, priests, deacons of Orthodoxy take seriously the command to "shepherd the Church of God which He (Christ) purchased with His own blood" (Acts 20:28).
In addition, the Church has always maintained and honored the canons of the Church contained in the Holy Rudder of the Orthodox Catholic Church, as it is properly entitled, and also known as the Pedalion . All Orthodox jurisdictions have their rules, typica, policies, and customs, and they are observed by all that belong to them. When you say that you are "in union with a specific jurisdiction" it implies that you follow its rules, for "union" means "being one with the whole." None of us may simply "do as we wish whenever we want when it comes to the laws of the Church" simply because we do not like the norm, or because we are more familiar with another tradition. There is but one tradition within the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church, and bishops must not only teach it – but also live it by good example. The Metropolia will no longer "tolerate" abuse of traditions and policies any longer. All others will recognize us only if all our faithful live by the same rules. This is not to say that certain local customs are not tolerable, they are, but so long as they do not change the total appearance of what the Church universally accepts.
To all my Bishops, Priests, Deacons, and Seminarians, I beg you to stand firm in the faith and in tradition, and give all you can to God and to those you serve. Remain steadfast in your faith, respect and adhere to the Holy Canons, follow and honor the traditions of the Church, and be faithful to your vows and promises. Do not take lightly directives issued by the Church, they are not to be considered but obeyed. Bishops alone have no right to change any tradition or policy of the Church, that is what the annual Synodal Consistory is for, and the Metropolia. The Liturgy of St John Chrysostom According to the Syro-Russian Rite will become the only public liturgy allowed within the Church. Monastic houses may use what is familiar to them – but not when the public may be in attendance as parishioners. Much money, time and work have went into this revised Liturgikon and this will not have been in vain. You are reminded, again, to order your copy now. Please refer to "Official from Metropolia" where all notices and advisements from the Metropolia are published. No Primate wants to feel that he is not being respected, and certainly none want to see the Church out-of-control with clergy doing "their own thing."
You must be sincere and dedicated members of the clergy, and try your best to be obedient - even when times are hard for you to do as you know you should. Satan works continually to discourage us and make us rebellious especially when we are idle. However, you must be what you were ordained to be – servants of Christ God, and do not cheapen the office you have received because you will also cheapen Our Lord's presence within the Church you serve. When a man is ordained a priest, or a priest is made a bishop, he accepts the policies of the Church, even though he may disagree, and he must not attempt to change them on his. This will only lead to disciplinary actions and maybe other more serious sanctions, something that no Metropolitan (or any bishop) truly enjoys doing – but will for the good of the entire Church. I am watching the actions of all my clergy, as best I can, to see who is faithful and who is not. God will see all that I do not.
Another issue that has come before me, that has never been the tradition of our jurisdiction, is the use of the "Royal Doors" on the Iconostasis. The faithful also share in the priesthood and Christ never placed anything between Him and his children, nor did the ancient churches of our faith. His Beatitude Metropolitan Timotheos started this tradition in 1892, and it has been upheld ever since by all his successors. Many contemporary parishes of some other jurisdictions that once used "doors" no longer do so, or have changed the wood to clear plexiglas or glass doors so not to exclude the faithful. Even when I was serving the Greek Archdiocese, my parish, and some others, did not make use of these, and several of those doing so left them open during the entire Liturgy. This policy will only be waived for parishes that come into union with us already using doors on their iconostasis. However, when a bishop of this jurisdiction serves at such a parish they will not be used in conformance with our very long tradition on this matter until a time when this changes after a unanimous decision during a duly convened Consistory. To do otherwise will be considered an insubordinate action. In relation to this issue, there is only one "monastic chapel" of this jurisdiction that now has permission to use the doors during a "monastic liturgy," i.e., with only monks in attendance, and that is St Patrick Enlightener of Ireland Chapel in Cleveland Ohio. However, this does not apply to any other future monastic establishment associated with them or any other monastery of this jurisdiction. The canons of our Church offer only semi-autonomy to monastic houses, not total autonomy. As the Rudder so eloquently states, "Where there is no Bishop, there is no Church." Monastics are not exempt from this so long as they are under a jurisdiction. That is why all jurisdictions have Primates or Patriarchs. Permission must be solicited in written form from the Metropolia, and it must be rendered in written form, before any deviation from the norm can commence. The issue here is not "doors" but "obedience" in the Church. How can any priest with authority or bishops expect obedience if they themselves are not?
The 2007 Code of Canons and Statutes of the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church have now been completed, and like all other jurisdictions, will be adhered to unless relaxed for a certain justified reason, i.e., for the economia of the Church. All clergy must obtain a copy of the Code by no later than January 25 th, 2008. All must become familiar with the particular canons of the Church. The day is coming when certain territories will be canonized as eparchies of the Archdiocese. An eparchy or diocese is a reflection of the Church in a particular area, it is one with the Mother Church. Therefore, I expect all clergy in charge of any ecclesial territory to be one with the Mother Church and Metropolis. If I were to want any less, than I would not be fit or worthy to lead a pack of dogs to a kennel let alone our clergy to God. To compromise canons or faith, to negotiate rights and wrongs, to overlook individual breaking of tradition, will only result in chaos, nonconformity, lack of respect, intolerance for obedience, and finally the crumbling of the Church. As much as I love every single cleric, deacon, priest, bishop, monk, and nun under my charge, I love God and the Church even more. Please respect the right of a Primate to lead the faithful because it is not always an easy assignment. I have always said, "One does not have to love me or like me, but they must respect me as long as I am doing what is right by God, and by the Church." Bishops should not try to be "popular" among their clergy, but should do their best to serve them and enforce the policies of the Church, and by doing so become popular with He who matters – God! One cannot lead until he first learns how to follow.
This is my prayer and hope for the New Year, 2008. We hate schism but embrace peace and harmony within the Church. Be one with God so that He can be within you.
Doxa si Kyrie! Evlogite!
+Stephen
Metropolitan Primate
Protohierarch of the Synod of Bishops
SYRO-RUSSIAN METROPOLIS TO MOVE TO OHIO
[Duluth MN] The Metropolia has been considering a move from Duluth Minnesota to another location since January of 2006. It realizes that there are difficulties for some to fly into Duluth Minnesota directly from other States, and that the Orthodox Christian population is very sparse in Minnesota. Various places have been considered as more convenient and practical, e.g., South Bend Indiana (about 70 miles east of Chicago Illinois), Peoria Illinois, and Cleveland Ohio. At this time, the most prominent of these is Cleveland Ohio where there is already representation of the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church. Those flying in for conferences, consistories, and other affairs would be able to fly directly to the location without having to transfer flights to the final destination, as now is the case for many when arriving in Minnesota. The Primate gave his approval for this on November 15, 2008.
WHAT IS CATHOLIC?
By Father George Grube (Orthodox Priest)
Edited for inclusion by the Editor of the OCH.
The term "Catholic" is derived from the Greek word "katholikos" which means "Universal, general or all-embracing." It is unfortunate that the word is synonymous in the English-speaking world with "Roman Catholicism" since it is clear from history and simple logic that one can indeed be "Catholic" and not Roman. As far as can be determined, the theological tern "Catholic" is traced to St Ignatius who lived approximately between A.D. 35-107. It was he who coined the phrase "wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church." The Roman Church in the late third century in order to bolster their claim to primacy changed the words to read, "wherever Peter is, there is the Catholic Church." Of course, therein lies the root of the problem, since the Church at Rome sees the Catholic Faith as rooted in loyalty and obedience to Papal authority, whereas [Orthodox] Catholics outside of Roman control view their faith as Christocentric, grounded in ancient creeds.
In the 11th century the Catholic Church of the East (now called Orthodox, meaning "true belief" or Orthodox Catholic) and the Catholic Church of the West (now called Roman) separated over just this maxim. While much of the separation was due to geopolitical concerns, there were charges by the Eastern Church that Rome had "changed the faith" by adding various beliefs favorable to her cause, i.e., "Filioque" in the Creed, and teaching that the Bishop of Rome was supreme in all matters. In fact, Rome did change the Creed unilaterally and it did add certain novelties to its teachings. However divided the Churches were at this point, both could claim a continuum with the Apostolic Faith in basics, therefore they were both "Catholic". Rome claimed the term as an organizational title, the East claimed adherence to the ancient name because of her fidelity to the faith. To be Catholic means that we have the assurance of salvation through Word and Sacrament, that is fidelity to the Gospel and the Eucharist.
SYNOD AND CONFERENCE SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 2008
[Duluth MN] The faithful are asked to make plans to be at the next Synodal Consistory and Clergy-Laity Congress, and the Commission Conference in 2008. The Primate is asking that all clergy, advisors, and providers be present for this most important event in the life of our Church. The attendance in 2007 was most disappointing.
The Metropolia has set the Synodal Consistory and Clergy-Laity Congress to begin on Saturday August 2nd, 2008 and to end on Thursday August 7th, 2008, with the Commission Conference opening on Friday August 8th, 2008 and ending on Sunday August 10th, 2008. The Synodal sessions will begin at 11:00 a.m. each day and end at 8:30 p.m. each day with Vespers on the days announced. The Commission sessions will begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 9:00 p.m. each day. The Commission Conference does not end until after Divine Liturgy on Sunday August 10th, 2008 and those who do not attend the closing Liturgy will not be awarded annual CEU credits for attendance. It is honorable for all providers to end such an event by giving worship and thanksgiving to God.
DONATIONS TO THE METROPOLIA
"Giving to Glorify God" (Matthew 6: 1-4). The Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Metropolia would like to thank the following for their generosity and love shown to God and His Church. Those wishing their names withheld are shown as "Anonymous." Donation statements upon request.
You are asked to consider a donation to help the Metropolia with all its programs to St Mary Theotokos Cathedral, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807.
THE JULIAN vs. GREGORIAN CALENDAR ISSUE
From Metropolia
During the months of August – October 2007, our Archdiocese was in contact with a seminarian from the Russian Orthodox Autocephalous Church, Mark (last name withheld). During this time, we realized that some truly do not understand the issues related to the Julian Calendar but instead see the difference between it and the Gregorian Calendar as a reason (maybe excuse in some cases) to create disunity among the Orthodox. Metropolitan Stephen, Bishop Timothy of Duluth, and Bishop Simeon of Cleveland took part in the dialogue and offering responses to the seminarian on this issue. Because there needs to be better understanding of this subject among the faithful, we have published some of the exchanges in this edition.
ROAC: Seminarian Mark in one of his communications to the Metropolia stated: "I think it is important to explain that our objection is not to the calendar per se, rather to the principle behind the change. The change represents the downhill slope toward apostasy that the new calendar Orthodox are running down." In this communication he joined this issue to "ecumenism" and "modernism" and equated all as compromises of faith. Mark also feels a great deal of holiness is attached to the Julian Calendar.
SROCC: Bishop Simeon in his response concerning this matter stated: "We have to be clear about the calendar issue. First there is nothing "holy" about the Julian Calendar, as it was put together by a pagan, Julius Caesar, but it was the calendar used by the Roman, then Byzantine Empire. The Gregorian Calendar was not used until A.D. 1589 in the Western Church, which was very late by historical standards. Also, both calendars can lead to problems. The Julian Calendar can lead us into prelest [meaning spiritual delusion], and the Gregorian Calendar can lead us into laxity and secularism. Bishop Simeon went on to explain how the SCOBA group, Gregorian Calendarists, accepted the Serbian Church into their organization which is a Julian Calendar jurisdiction even though the SCOBA group despises Old Calendarists, showing that their motivation is money and power, and a drive to crush the smaller Orthodox groups. Bishop went on to say: "None of this has anything to do with the Faith of the Holy Fathers, or the Gospel. When the question of the calendar came to the OCA in Alaska, Bishop Gregory in his wisdom said, 'The Julian Calendar was good enough for St Herman, so it is good enough for us.' That is still the best argument for keeping the Old Calendar."
ROAC: Seminarian Mark also wrote: "The Holy Fathers and Saints, who quite often spilled their blood to safeguard these "directions", will stand next to us at the Dread Judgment, wearing their scares [sic] as badges of honor. They will look at us and say one of two things: 1) What did you not understand? We gave you the directions; we even wrote it down for you! Our very bones healed people to show you how our lives and decisions were pleasing to God! You have no excuse! 2) Come! Stand with us because you kept the Faith that we witnessed to. You are one with us!
SROCC: Metropolitan Stephen responded to some of the above statements saying: "First, we do not know what the saints and martyrs will say to us, and we cannot presume to know. In fact, it will be Christ the Supreme Judge who will say what must be said. Keeping the Faith is one thing, keeping traditions is another. The Faith cannot be changed, and Traditions should be maintained, but traditions can be honored or not as they reflect a particular group of persons or an individual, or maybe even a specific nation, but not everyone."
SROCC: Bishop Timothy responded to the issue of equating the Julian Calendar with matters of Faith: "It is becoming increasingly concerning that some Orthodox Christians are confusing 'faith and dogmas' with 'traditions' just to prove their reasoning or beliefs. Faith is just that, it is defined in Holy Scripture and by the Holy Ecumenical Councils. It is not to be considered but obeyed! Traditions, e.g., wearing beards by clergy; wearing a saccos by bishops; following the Gregorian or Julian Calendar, are issues of tradition which may be accepted by a jurisdiction or not. The acceptance or rejection of these is not a matter of faith but of obedience to the jurisdiction one belongs to."
ROAC: Seminarian Mark felt very strongly that Old Calendarists should not pray with those following the New Calendar. As though these people are all anathematized from the Church.
SROCC: Metropolitan Stephen also commented: "There is no doubt that True Orthodox Christians cannot pray with those Orthodox who scoff at the words of the Church Fathers. We cannot follow, hand-in-hand, with those who embrace Ecumenism and Sergianism. To do so brings us to their level instead of trying to raise ourselves higher to Almighty God. As said by St Theodore the Studite, 'From the time of the Apostles and thereafter, many sundry heresies have crashed the Church; …but She has remained undivided and unblemished, and will abide so unto the ages, those aberrant in mind and deed being cut off and separated from Her.' (Epistle 1.28) This we believe. I, for one, will not serve within the walls of ecumenists, but that does not mean that God does not hear their prayers. Christ never condemned the Julian or Gregorian Calendar, in fact He followed the Hebrew Calendar. We cannot use Christ to make a case for either calendar. Neither is anathema as is the heresy of Arianism. There are good and bad people within both sides of the issue, but those who offend God are those who spit hate out of their mouths against each other. This I find to be offensive! Even the issue of ecumenism is much more offensive to the Church than that of Calendars."
Summary: Although our jurisdiction embraced the Julian Calendar in 2002, we did so for ecclesiastical usage out of respect for it and those of blessed memory who honored it, not as a matter of faith. In the secular world, however, we cannot escape the Gregorian Calendar, which is commonly used throughout the world - save for a few places. Also, because we follow the Julian Calendar does not mean that we disrespect the Hebrew Calendar that Our Lord, and the Holy Apostles, followed. Traditions of the Universal Church, e.g., celebrating Divine Liturgy on Sundays in honor of the Lord's Resurrection, must be maintained and honored. However, traditions such as bishops wearing long beards or the imperial saccos instead of a phelon can be accepted or not by a jurisdiction and still be faithfully Orthodox. Again, however, such traditions once accepted by a particular jurisdiction become binding on its clergy out of obedience. There is allowed in the Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church diversity in some matters from the beginning of its time.
RELIGIOUS SUPPLY MINISTRY TO CLERGY & PARISHES
[St Cloud MN] Father Steven Johnson, pastor of St Michael & All Angels Parish in St Cloud Minnesota recently met with the Primate and Coadjutor Bishop in Duluth Minnesota, at St Mary Cathedral, and disclosed his desire to serve the Church through his avocation. Father has for many years created various items out of wood and recently started creating beautiful analogia, outdoor crosses, wall crucifixes, blessing crosses, kouboukllia (Sepulchres), and many other beautiful items out of wood. He has also expanded now to make chalice and diskos veils, aers, communion cloths and more. He is currently working on an online catalogue for ordering such items, and will also have a hard-copy catalogue as well. Father Steven can be contacted for more information at Fr_Steven@Hotmail.com. His work is extremely good and made with great love for the Church. His works thus far can be seen at various churches including All Saint of Ireland in Castlebar County Mayo Ireland, St Mary Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota, and St Patrick Enlightener of Ireland Chapel in Cleveland Ohio. One of his own creations is the Tri-Bar Cross (St Andrew Cross) Analogion, this is the use of the tri-bar cross as the centerpiece between the base and the top ledge of the analogion.
Q. What is the difference between the words "Divine Liturgy" and "Mass?" Chris Manapoulos (Lansing MI)
A. The words in use actually mean the same. In fact, in many books that were published by the Greek Orthodox Church the word "Mass" was used in reference to the worship of the Orthodox Church, e.g., "Studies in the Greek Church" compiled by Bishop Anthony (Bashir), 3rd Edition, 1960. However, in the Orthodox Catholic Church today "Divine Liturgy" is commonly and widely used while in the Roman Catholic Church the word "Mass" is commonly used. Liturgy comes from the Greek meaning "a public duty or work" – the public work of the Church in which we give glory and worship to Almighty God. There are several liturgies used in the Orthodox Church and most widely used among them is the Byzantine Liturgy of St John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople (349-407) which was adapted from the Liturgy of St James.
Q. What are the main parts of the Divine Liturgy? Name Withheld (Schaumburg IL)
A. Different jurisdictions of Orthodox Christianity may answer this question a bit differently. The acceptable response among most would be that the Divine Liturgy is divided into three main parts, i.e., The Preparation (Proskomide), The Liturgy of the Word, The Liturgy of Sacrifice . However, some will also add the Enarxis which is the portion from the opening Doxology ("Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father…") to the Trisagion ("Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy…"), the Anaphora, Communion, and Dismissal. Some will refer to these as "parts" of the Liturgy, others as "portions" of the main parts. In the Syro-Russian Orthodox catholic Church we say Proskomide, Enarxis and Word, Anaphora or Sacrifice, Communion, and Dismissal.
Icon of Our Lady of the Sign
As you will read in this edition of the Orthodox Christian Herald, the Church now has a youth center under its omophor and under the patronage of "Our Lady of the Sign." The Icon of the Sign is among the most revered icons of the Mother of God (Theotokos). This image is characteristically written by iconographers with the hands of the Blessed Mother raised upwards in prayers, and with Christ on her breast. The upraised hands were known both in the Old Testament and in ancient Greco-Roman times. This icon is also known as the "Mother of God Orans" with the inscription of Maria or Mara (ancient Eastern Christian form of the name) upon it. It was first written in the fourth century and Christ was on the breast of the Holy Virgin. This image of the Sign is used in many Orthodox and Byzantine Rite Roman Catholic churches as an altarpiece as and iconographic revealing of the Church personified by the Mother of God. The Old Testament prophecies culminate in the prophecy of Isaiah: "Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; behold a virgin shall conceive in the womb, and shall bring forth a son, and you shall call His name Emmanuel." (Isaiah 7:14).
THE GREATEST MAN IN HISTORY
Jesus Christ
He had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
He had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
He had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
He had no army, yet they feared Him.
He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.
He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.
AN IRISH PRAYER May the road rise to meet you,
may the wind be always at your back:
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
the rain fall soft upon
your fields;
And, until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Amen.
FROM A RUSSIAN PRIEST
By Father Miltiades Efthimiou
How Old is the Orthodox Faith? Some facts are hard to disprove:
If you are…
- Lutheran, your religion was founded by Martin Luther, an ex-monk of the Roman Church, in A.D. 1517.
- Anglican (Church of England), your religion was founded by King Henry VIII because the Pope would not grant him a divorce and remarriage in A.D. 1534.
- Presbyterian, your religion was founded by John Knox in Scotland in A.D. 1560.
- Congregationalist, your religion was originated by Robert Brown in Holland in A.D. 1582.
- Protestant Episcopalian , your religion is an offshoot of the Church of England, founded by Samuel Seabury in the American colonies in the 17th century.
- Baptist, you owe the tenets of your religion to John Smyth in Amsterdam in A.D. 1606.
- Dutch Reformed, your religion was founded by Michelis Jones in New York in A.D. 1628.
- Methodist, your religion was founded by John and Charles Wesley in England in A.D. 1774.
- Mormon (Latter Day Saints), your religion [cult] was founded by Joseph Smith in Palmyra New York in A.D. 1829.
- Salvation Army, your sect began with William Booth in London in A.D. 1865.
- Christian Scientist, your religion was founded by Mary Baker Eddy in A.D. 1879.
- Nazarene, Pentecostal, Holiness, Jehovah's Witnesses, your religion is one of thousands of new sects founded by men or women within the past hundred years.
- Roman Catholic, your church shared the same rich apostolic and doctrinal heritage as the Orthodox Catholic Church until A.D. 1054. During the first millennium they were one and the same Church. In A.D. 1054 the Pope of Rome broke away from the other four Patriarchates by tampering with the Original Creed of the Church, and considering himself to be infallible.
- Orthodox Christian (Catholic), your religion was founded in the year A.D. 33 by Jesus Christ, the Son of God. It has not changed since that time. Your Church is now almost 2,000 years old and it is for this reason that Orthodoxy, the Church of the Apostles and Fathers, is considered the true "One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church."
MEMBERS WITHOUT A PARISH
The Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church, like other small and smaller Orthodox jurisdictions, realizes that there are members who live far away from the nearest parish to them. In some cases, there exist parishes of other jurisdictions that are in communion with us or in which mutual recognition has been exchanged. In such cases our members may attend these churches until one of ours is opened in their locality. In other cases, there are those living in an area with no parish at all to attend, and for them they may belong to the Pro-Cathedral of St Mary and be on its rolls as a member. Such persons would be allowed to use the Typica Service within their homes on Sunday and Holy Days. Domestic Churches may be established in homes until a parish or mission can be officially established. "Distance Parishioners" would also be allowed to make their 10% tithe to St Mary's uniting them to the parish in good standing. For further information contact Bishop Timothy at . If you are interested in assisting the Archdiocese to establish a mission parish in your area, please write to the same email address.
The J Nathan Marrero Family of Florida was received as distance parishioners of St Mary Cathedral, Duluth Minnesota, and also St Patrick Chapel, Cleveland Ohio. Katherine Marrero, wife of Nathan, is a licensed member of the Commission. Blessings and Welcome to the Church!
ORDINATIONS
Minor orders:
- Linus M Cantillano ordained as a Subdeacon by His Grace Bishop Cyril of Nicaragua at St Basil Seminary Chapel, Rivas Nicaragua, on Sunday September 30th, 2007.
- Daven Powe blessed as a Reader by His Excellency Bishop Timothy on Sunday September 2nd, 2007 at St Mary Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota.
APPOINTMENTS & ASSIGNMENTS
- Subdeacon Linus Cantillano serving the Vicariate of Central & South America in Granada Nicaragua as assistant to His Grace Bishop Cyril.
- Father Steven M Johnson appointed director of the Archdiocesan Department of Media and Publications, effective on September 10th, 2007.
- Father Anthony Luebke appointed Endorsing Agent of the Archdiocese to the National Conference on Ministry to the Armed Forces, effective October 2nd, 2007, by His Beatitude.
OFFICIAL FROM METROPOLIA
Issue 1 (11.11.07/1): Clergy are instructed at this time to make certain that they read the Orthodox Christian Herald, and to respond to issues that pertain to them. Official advisements are placed in this section from the Metropolia.
Issue 2 (11.12.07/1): His Beatitude has directed that all parishes and clergy purchase the bound Liturgikon of the Metropolia and Archdiocese by January 1st, 2008, as this will be contain the now approved and blessed Liturgies and Paraliturgical Services of the Church. The Liturgikon is $100.00 (USD) and all must order this edition by January 1, 2008.
Issue 3 (11.12.07/2): Thomas R Monroe readmitted to seminary studies for the Archdiocese and to serve in the Western Vicariate of the United States and Canada.
Issue 4 (11.13.07/1: It was unanimously agreed upon by the Synod of Bishops, that it should be permitted to ordain more than one to Minor Orders of the Church when necessary.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
All are invited to send in announcements to share with us all.
PAROCHIAL CHARTERS
Established:
- Holy Cross of Jesus Study and Prayer Centre, Sultan Colony Pakistan (11.12.07)
- Holy Resurrection of Jesus Prayer Group, Apopka Florida (10.23.07)
- Our Lady of the Sign Youth Center, Pueblo Colorado (11.01.07)
- St George the Martyr Mission Parish, Pueblo Colorado (11.07.07)
- St Methodius Prayer Group, Liberia Costa Rica (10.20.07)
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
- Father John Joseph of Pakistan suspended for failure to respond to directives and maintain contact with the Metropolia for over two years, effective as of October 28th, 2007.
- Father Joseph Ogola of Kenya has been suspended for failure to respond to directives and maintain communication with the Metropolia, effective as of October 28th, 2007.
- Subdeacon Matthew Largaespada of California is temporally suspended for failure to maintain communication with the Metropolia, inappropriate conduct, failure to maintain contact with his superior in Nicaragua, and failure to complete academic requirements with the Seminary, effective as of October 12th, 2007.
PRAY FOR THE SICK AND SUFFERING
- Metropolitan Stephen
- Bishop Timothy of Duluth (Minnesota)
- Archdeacon John DeMeis (New York)
- Sister Irene (California)
- Bishop Cyril of Nicaragua
- Father Anthony Leudke (Ohio)
- Mr Carl Maus (Maryland)
- Captain Dennis and Andrea Fitzgerald (Georgia)
- Mrs Karen Wiser (Minnesota)
- Dr Audrey Daniel (South Carolina)
- Dr Marge Ebeling DCh (Arizona)
- Father Paul Jensen (Texas)
- Father Patrick Lemming (Tennessee)
- Dr Karla VonEhrenkrook (Arizona)
- Howard & Nancy Youngheim (Indiana)
- All our Armed Forces everywhere, who are suffering, injured or who have lost their lives protecting the freedom of others.
- For all our God-loving Bishops, Priests, Deacons, Seminarians, 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!
- Greg Powe passed away on October 8th, 2007 in California. He is the uncle of Reader Maximus Daven Powe of Duluth Minnesota, a member of St Mary's Cathedral.
DONATIONS TO THE METROPOLIA
- All Saints of Ireland Parish, Ireland ($50.00)
- Holy Ghost Chapel, California ($50.00)
- His Grace Bishop Cyril, Nicaragua ($300.00)
- Dr Audrey Daniel, South Carolina ($50.00)
- Mr & Mrs Albert Dobiash, Colorado ($100.00)
- Father Anthony Luedke, Ohio, (Litiya Set)
Readers wishing to contribute to towards renovation efforts and the building of three rooms at St Mary Pro-Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota are asked to send their donation to: St Nicholas Chancery, 1318 Baxter Avenue, Superior Wisconsin 54880-1762.
The three new rooms in the parish hall will house seminarians who are preparing for the priesthood. Those who wish to donate $1,000.00 toward a room will have a plaque affixed over its door with their name or that of a loved one on it. This can also be in memory of someone. All donations will be listed and a gift will be sent.
BISHOP CYRIL APPOINTED VICAR OF THE CONGO
[Rivas Nicaragua] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen appointed His Grace Bishop Cyril of Rivas (Nicaragua) to be Vicar Bishop of the Democratic Republic of the Congo replacing His Excellency Bishop Timothy of Duluth. Bishop Cyril now oversees activities for the Church in Kenya and The Congo both in Africa. The appointment was made official on October 20, 2007.
NEW MISSION AND YOUTH CENTER IN COLORADO
[Pueblo CO] By the grace of Almighty God, the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church now has two more parochial centers under its omophor. Thomas Monroe, a former seminarian of the Archdiocese, who has recently returned to complete his studies, established a youth-care program under the Church back in 1992 under the name Our Lady of the Sign. This center provides guidance and care for youth in the Pueblo Colorado and surrounding areas. With his return to complete studies leading to his ordination as a priest, he has also begun plans for St George the Martyr Mission Parish there. Seminarian Thomas is married with two children, and they are all involved in the youth center's work. His Excellency Bishop Timothy of Duluth will ordain him a Subdeacon at St Mary Theotokos Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota in February 2008.
METROPOLITAN ATTENDS LITURGY AT ST PATRICK OF IRELAND CHAPEL
[Cleveland OH] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen accompanied by His Excellency Bishop Timothy of Duluth, and Reader Maximus Powe, spent three days at Our Lady of Sitka Monastery visiting Bishop Simeon of Cleveland. On Sunday he attended the Divine Liturgy at St Patrick Chapel which was concelebrated by Bishop Timothy and Bishop Simeon, and assisted by Father Anthony Luedke and Monk Menas. His Beatitude was greatly impressed with the just completed chapel.
METOPOLIA MAKES DONATIONS
[Duluth MN] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen donated two icons from his personal collection to two new missions of the Archdiocese. He sent an Icon of the Resurrection of Christ to Mrs Katherine Marrero of Holy Resurrection Prayer Group of Florida, and an Icon of St George the Martyr to Seminarian Thomas Monroe at St George the Martyr Mission Parish of Pueblo Colorado. In addition, he has donated over $300.00 worth of items, medical supplies, material, and books, to Subdeacon Joseph Mabedi and Mother Helena at the Theocentric Clinic of St Joseph Parish, and St Mary Mother of God Convent, both in Kinshasa Democratic Republic of the Congo.
CHRIST THE PANTOCRATOR SOVEREIGN ORDER OF CHIVALRY
Those interested in joining the Order of Chivalry and being part of Induction Class II for 2008, or wishing more information, are asked to send their petition and bio-data to the Metropolia by no later than March 1st , 2008. This may be sent to St Mary Cathedral, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807.
Synodal Consistory and Conference 2007
Advertise in the Herald You can advertise your parish, center, club or other organization in this section for $10.00 plus $.50 (fifty cents) per word. The Orthodox Christian Herald is sent to every diocese, which copies it on to local members. It is read by over 1,000 people and growing.
Framed Icon of St Panteleimon, Patron of Healers Available from St Mary's Orthodox Catholic Church, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807. Suitable for hanging in counseling centers, clinics, and in the home. $40.00, postage and handling included. Commission members are required to have this icon hanging in their offices and clinics. Order yours today.
Lest We Forget Handmade nun dolls from the past. Full habits of many orders of nuns from various Churches including Lutheran and Roman. Nostalgia brought to your doorsteps. These are beautifully created and show the exact habits of nuns worn many years ago. The wife of one of our priests makes them. You can write for catalog or additional information to Father Patrick Lemming, St James House, 804 Catlett Road, Sevierville TN 37862.
Religious Articles Hand-Made Chalice and Diskos Veils, Aers, Red Communion Cloths, Crosses, Analogia, Wooden Blessing Crosses (for house blessings), and other items for sale and made by Deacon Steven Johnson. All religious items are hand-made to order and inexpensive. For more information and prices please write to: Reverend Steven M Johnson, 1719 South 7th Avenue, St Cloud MN 56301, or call 320-230-2609.
Vestments for Sale Greek-style priest's vestments tailor made in 4-5 weeks. Available colors: White, Silver, Purple, Red, Green, Black, and Gold. Set includes Phelon (Chasuble), Epitrachelion (Stole), Cuffs, Zone, Aer and Chalice and Diskos veils. Cost per set: $600.00. For more information write to Chancery Office, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807; or email.
A Treatise on Chiropathy: The Holistic Healing Ministry is now available from Commission Moderator, PO Box 16201, Duluth MN 55816. The cost is $25.00 and includes Postage and Handling.
PARISHES AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE METROPOLIA
Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing CRCH.RBSOCC.ORG For information write to: Dr Peter Smyth, Pine Valley Medical Center, 4600 Highway 7 #230, Woodbridge ON L4L 4Y7 Canada; or Father Timothy Kjera, Post Office Box 16201, Duluth Minnesota 55816-1612. This is a Licensed Society of Professionals in service to God through the Healing Ministry of the Church.
The Companions of St Basil is open to married or single men and women wishing to share in the good works and prayers of the Monastic Community of St Basil. Those interested in the Companions of St Basil should write to: Moderator Fr Steven Johnson, St Thomas House, 1719 South 7th Avenue, St Cloud MN 56301.
Monastic Community of St Basil and Companions of St Basil open to those who wish to follow a monastic way of life or who wish to be associated with it in the secular world. Write to: Chancery Office, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807. The Community has monastic centers in the African Congo, Nigeria, Nicaragua, and Minnesota (USA)..The Sisters of the Community of St Basil are headquartered in the African Congo and are part of the Monastic Community of St Basil.
Holy Mother of God Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, VR Archpriest Joseph Mpongo, Louis Lambert Avenue 32A, 6040 Jumet Belgium.
St Luke the Physician Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Mission Parish, VR Father Paul Jensen (Pastor), 339 NE 8th Street, Paris Texas 75450.
St Mary the Theotokos Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Cathedral, located at 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth Minnesota 55807. Clergy: His Excellency Bishop Timothy, Pastor. Phone: 218-624-0202. Sunday Liturgy: 10:30 A.M.
St Michael & All Angels Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Parish, St Cloud Minnesota. For information on times of Divine Liturgy, please call Father Steven Johnson at 320-230-2609.
St Thomas the Apostle Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 1719 South 7th Avenue, St Cloud Minnesota. Father Steven M Johnson is Administrator.