OCH Archives November 2014

PATRIARCH IGNATIUS APHREM II PARTICIPATES IN LITURGY OF THE "PEACE IS THE FUTURE" CONFERENCE

On Sunday morning, His Holiness participated in the Divine Liturgy in St. Mary's Cathedral in Antwerp. The Divine Liturgy was attended by a large number of religious leaders, clergy, scholars, politicians, and dignitaries from all over the world. On this occasion, His Holiness spoke about the presence of God among us in our lives. He also described how we can distinguish the presence of God despite the problems we might encounter.

Their Eminences Archbishops Mor Severius Hazail Somi, Patriarchal Vicar in Belgium, France and Luxemburg, and Mor Dionysius Jean Kawak, Patriarchal Office Director, also participated representing the Syrian Orthodox Church.

Personal Details of Metropolitan Timotheos Vilathi
Born:	January 24, 1854 Paris, France
Died:	July 8, 1929 (aged 75) Versailles, France
Nationality:	French (along with Canadian and American)
Church:	American Orthodox Catholic Church and Archdiocese of the American Orthodox Catholic Church now called Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church & Primatial Archdiocese of the Americas & All Dependencies
Motto:	Soli Deo Honor et Gloria (Honor and Glory be to God Alone)
Signature:
Coat of Arms:

Mor Timotheos Vilathi I (January 24, 1854 – July 8, 1929), was a French naturalized American Christian leader active in France and the United States. He was originally a member a the Roman Catholic Church before his ordination as a priest in the Christian Catholic Church of Switzerland. However, in May 1892, after having been Orthodox Catholic, he was consecrated "Metropolitan Archbishop of America" by the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church in India with the blessing and authorization of the Syriac Patriarchate of Antioch. During his time he established many parishes in the United States and Canada, and then in other countries as well. He was recognized by the Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church (aka - Russian Orthodox Church,and Orthodox Church of America. More about his life and achievements will be placed in forthcoming issues of the Orthodox Christian Herald soon.

Toward the end of his life he was referred to as an "episcopi vagantes" by some, which translates to "wandering bishop, " which was as far from the truth as could be. This title was given to many "Old Catholic" and "Orthodox Christian" bishops in the United States and elsewhere, and a good portion of them with much reason to be given such a title, but Mor Timotheos Vilathi was "Orthodox Catholic" in his heart and actions until he resigned from the Office of Primate in 1920. Jealousy consumed some of the misguided (and some vindictive) persons who caused this name to be given to him, but without grounds or justice as many historians have attested to for almost a century. There are many online "histories" of Metropolitan Timotheos Vilathi (Joseph Vilatte) that are truthful and complimentary, but some are nothing more than idle attempts to make this prelate look as a vagante bishop. Several of those he consecrated and trusted turned out to be schismatics and a few heretics, but this was not his fault.

[Added 12/15/14] On May 29th, 1892, Vilatte (Vilathi) was consecrated as Metropolitan Mar Timotheos by three Malankara Orthodox bishops: Alvarez Mar Julius, Kadavil Mar Athanasius, and the Saint Parumala Mar Gregorios in Colombo, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). Mar Timotheos was tasked with ministering to America, presumably amongst dissatisfied Roman Catholics and Old Catholics, who had grown dissatisfied with developments in the Roman Papacy, including Papal Infallibility. The Malankara Orthodox Church had lost contact with Mar Timotheos as well as any connection with the American Orthodox, although Mar Timotheos continued ministering in America independently due to administrative and polity disagreements at the time with the Malankara Catholicate and the Syrian Patriarchate. Over a century later, many of the parishes he founded in America that broke away from his and his successors became unaffiliated with any of the "canonical" Apostolic Churches and have no recognition by the Primatial See of the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church, but have been found to nonetheless trace their alleged Episcopal successions back to the "Vilatte/Vilathi Succession." Many of these, and most of the schismatic groups, have lost validity and/or canonicity over time, and some have even adopted heretical beliefs, e.g., Theosophy, i.e., occult teaching about God and the world based on mystical insight; Gnosticism, and Reincarnation, all of which go against the beliefs of Orthodox Catholicism.

There is some debate in the Church about the issue of the Calendar. While I am not going give this debate the attention I could, I would like to explain a bit. There are those within the Orthodox Church who believe that the Julian (old) calendar is correct because it is the calendar used by the early Church, there is the other side which believes that the Gregorian (new or civil) calendar being more accurate is the proper one to use. This is a "hot button" topic for many, so much so that even the Ecumenical Patriarch has refused to make a definitive decision either way. The Julian Calendar (named for Julius Caesar) did not take into account the exact length of on year which is 365.2425 days. Consequently by the time Pope St. Gregory had the calendar revised, it was off by 10 days and those were taken off the calendar (by making the day after Thursday, October 4th to be Friday, 15th October in the year 1582) The Julian Calendar which has been revised over the years has all the same days as the New Calendar, but is offset by 13 days (e.g. December 25 (old calendar) is the same day as January 7 (new calendar))

The reason I am bringing this up is not to cause controversy or confusion, nor to advocate for one calendar or another, but to make a point about my spiritual journey. I have lived under the rule of both calendars over the years and I must admit that in the case of fixed Holy Days such as the Nativity I enjoyed the old Calendar so that there was a reverence to the day often lost in the commercialization of Christmas. We could have December 25th (NC) for our friends, family, gift-giving, and then have our veneration of the birth of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 7th (NC).

Every year I see the retailers gearing up for Christmas earlier and earlier, inundating and indoctrinating us into a secular mindset, culling us into generosity for the sole purpose of lining pockets, and spreading the feeling of peace and goodwill devoid of any religious recognition. Hollywood is more than happy to make movies about Christmas featuring family dramas, Santa Claus, and the search for the ultimate gift, again mostly devoid of the true source of the holiday. A Christmas Tree (or holiday tree as it is sometimes called) can stand proudly in the town square but a Nativity Scene will cause an uproar. The celebration of Christmas has become so convoluted that even I have a hard time not being jaded.

That is why I used to love having my "secular" Christmas and my Holy Nativity separated. Reflecting on this sentiment I have since tried to keep that separation in my heart. Were I to reflect only on the secularization of Christmas beginning in early November, I would be so sick of the whole affair by December 25th that I would have little room left in my heart for the Celebration of the Holy Nativity. I have decided to follow St. Paul's command to "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Romans 12:2. So let the world have their "X-mas" and their "Satan" Claus and their skiing vacations, and let us keep in our hearts the true "Reason for the Season".

His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen has been in and out of the hospital since December 2013 for several occlusions in his left leg causing great pain that have also caused numbness in his left foot especially. Several operations have been performed and stents have been inserted into the clogged artery that was causing most of the problems. This stent occluded a few months later and the operation was again performed, but this new stent also occluded and caused another to be placed in late July 2014. This stent also occluded. His Beatitude was once again in UPMC – Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. Under Dr Luke Marone, the Primate's vascular surgeon, angioplasty was performed and this seemed to be lasting but on October 27, 2014 he was advised that it was starting to occlude, once again. He will be checked again in early November 2014 when a bypass procedure will be discussed with him. The doctors involved feel that a bypass will be required and may be performed soon..

His Beatitude has been on much bed-rest over the past six months due to this issue along with sciatic pain and lower back pain. He has been working in his office against the wishes of the clergy and doctors but has been resting when needed. His Beatitude is one who is hard to keep down and away from his work for the Church. He worries greatly when any issues are before him and he cannot resolve. We do ask all our readers to keep him in your prayers. We will keep you updated on his health.

Our youth with the only natural difference being male and female could be divided ignoring gender into six basics groups of people in order to study the challenges faced by our modern youth. The first would be the educated youth, the second would be the uneducated youth and the illiterate, third would be employed youth, the fourth would be unemployed youth, the fifth would be the skilled and unskilled youth the sixth would be victims of sociological evils and problems. The Bible is very clear from the very first moment of creation according to nature and the function of a male and a female, i.e., Adam and Eve, that Adam needed a helpmate and from a rib taken from Adam – God created Eve. They had to live together with different natures with different functions with different responsibilities but with the same nature as human beings. Later the new nature came into being as the brothers and sisters brought forth new children within society and other sociological relationships in the communities.

It would be a very appropriate idea to classify a few challenges with the roots of the continued history. The very first challenge faced was the desire to be disobedient to Adam and Eve because of pride and greed, and the same challenge of further equality followed into hatred and jealously of Cain with Abel. Then slowly we enter the area personal and individual challenges, and this caused by physical impediments and personal health-care. Family challenges would include the joined family living, the economical concerns, the heath-care and the education of the children and adults, the finding of good partners for marriage and trusted friends, the failures and tragedies of the children faced by the parents, and then old age and elderly and their health-care and ability to live comfortably.

Social and communitarian challenges would be the discrimination faced by the people in their everyday activity with non-Christian people. Religious, moral, and cultural challenges, the challenges faced as the minorities (Pakistan) the land mafia, religious and social violence against the minorities, the enforcement of religious extremism and the religious extremism itself, the religious extremism of the ecumenical forces.

The challenges our (Pakistan) country faces, would be the political and democracies differences & disturbances in the country, the bribery the corruption. The unavailability of the natural and social basic needs. The global the challenges would be the terrorism, common wealth, natural resources and the environmental warnings. Every member of the society specially the youth is being very much affected as the people of the developing society. Refuges migration and settlements, Political and religious asylums mostly of the youth also faced challenge on a global level for the developed and development centuries. The challenges faced by women and women as the minorities (Pakistani) would be, the forced marriages, harassment of women, sexual harassment and enforcement, street harassment, rape, prostitution, natural social and cultural conflicts suffering of women as understood stubborn and doubtful in the family and created the road to be divorced. Violence against Women, domestic and administrative employment immorality, Labor gender injustices, inequality in the families. Special quota as the employer .The politics rights reserved seats in the parliaments.

There is need to have proper laws concerning Women's Prisons laws in the country. Women labor laws, women work more than men but paid less. Child mother laws after the divorce for the up-lift, education and health-care. Child mother laws for the in-laws after the death of the husband for the up-lift education and health. Kidnapped women and gang rape criminal laws against women faced challenge by the civil society. Demanded and forced relationship with unwanted unwashed men faced challenge by the women. Very painful challenge faced by the women when her husband gets interested in other woman leaving the children behind in their tin age more than even four five of them, the left behind family becomes at terrible risk with all kind of dangerous circumstance of destruction. Few cases of the young women we find when they are not successful rather being bluffed by the other male partner before the marriage, it is being felt and taken as the whole life has no meaning and the confidence is lost forever in every new male partner to be found or not to be found for the rest of the life. Family planning and health care of women must be taken as the formation of each married family. Gold and road crime snatching of the purse of women is another form of crime even with terrible injuries and losing the part of the body with gold could become at risk. The challenges faced as the tragedies and problems faced by the broken families. Challenges faced as the Orphans and widows. The challenges faced literacy. The gender discrimination, the new born baby boy gives more joy to the family then the new born baby girl. The first new born baby boy gives more respect to the mother from the in-laws than the new born baby girl in the family. The boy of a family would have more freedom than the girl in the family. The love marriage of the boy is much more appreciated and accepted than the love marriage of the girl by the family.

The biblical solutions could be for the Christians women are, like the mothers, the sisters and waives as the members of the families of those times, the sisters of Cain and Abel the wife of Noah the mother of Abraham the daughter of lot to share the responsibilities burdens worries of your families. Tabitha was always good and helping the poor (Act: 9:36).Pricilla the partner to Paul. Be like Mariam the sister of Moses. Lydia converts to Christianity to Jesus. Follow Jesus like Martha Mary and Mary Magdalene. Be like Esther and Ruth the daughter of your nation. Be proved of your family like Jemima the daughter of Job.the words of the encouragements & guidance for our Christians women, the prophet Zephaniah says,, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem. (Zephaniah 3:14).Be glad and rejoice with all your heart you have welcomed Jesus with five of the virgin after waiting for him with full oil in your lamps (Mathew 25). Be sure Jesus is going to listen to you for your children after he has confirmed you faith like the Canaanites women (Mathew 15:21-28, Mark 7:24-30). Have faith in Jesus he is going to heal you no matter you might be sick from the twelve years he is going to feel your touch even walking in the crowd (Mark 5:25-34). The personal touch was the sign not to declare her sickness in public to the crowd due to the difficulties she would have created for herself. She would have not the courage and the power to face the crowed rather she would have to leave of the crowed due to her unclean sickness.

After the personal touch of healing and fully purified Jesus declares to the crowed that she is being cured fully. She is being purified fully (OT-Leviticus 15. the rules and regulations of uncleanness) .She can be very much the part of the society the past of the present crowed the part of the present congregation with full purification and cleanliness. Coming to Jesus with full confidence of faith to have the personal touch can free you from all the conditions rules and regulations of the uncleanness. Do not worry Jesus is going to restore and preserve your dignity like the woman was told go not to sin again (John 8:10-11) Jesus is ready to ask you to give him some water no matter what would be the standard of your dignity in eyes of the present society (John 4). Be courageous to go to Jesus even he is sitting with his disciples and with the other official people of the society as the guest, still you can meet him to put perfume on his feet after washing his feet with your tears of repentance (Luke 7:36-50,John 12:3,Mark 14:3-9,Mathew 26:6-13).

The challenges faced by our Christian youth would be latest fashions and the conflicts of the cultural languages. Our youth are mostly lliterate in the Bible, not recognized as the worshiper comers, not much interest found in the religion and religious activities, church administrations being criticized for the present and coming generations by the youth, away from the cultural values, hugely concerned with social ethics, aliens to traditional family structure, economically vulnerable, Violence saturated, spiritually hungry, victim of laziness pride and religious discrimination, Literacy unemployment Loneliness and rejection. The values of the education and skilled education is not being recognized , Lack of struggle interest hard-work and constant regularity, worried of different remakes and slogans about their career and personality, the tendency to again the luxuries of life without talents, unconditional unlimited tensions and discouragements. Our youth we see most of the times being Discouraged by a failure. We find the communication gap between them and their elders residential livings for the working and studying youth from the remote areas faced challenge as the unavailability and financially out reach. The youth needs to be loved and cared by the adults. The good example from the adults Christians is demanded. The opportunities could be given to use and to develop their talents.

To have the attitude like Jesus (Philippians 2) to be the real vine and branch to have life and to give life. Become the light of the world. Become life for the world. Become the example of truth for the world. Become the way flexible for the up comings and down comings people and circumstances. To be changed totally like Paul. Prepare the way like John the Baptist. Good shepherd like Jesus with all the qualities of the leadership. Be responsible to your profession and the offering to God like Abel. Be good leader and listener like Moses to God for his people. Be the assistant and helper to Moses like Aaron. Take as the example Joshua taking over the responsibilities. Build your nation like Ezra and Nehemiah. Show the prophetic abilities like Isaiah Jeremiah Ezekiel and Daniel. The solutions and development in general faced challenges by male & female married unmarried youth: Family matters are to be discussed among themselves and with the adults from the well experienced people of the areas of life. The outreach social religious programs are to be promoted for the personal individuals as the formation,

development, self-confidence and competitions to be faced of the everyday experiences recourses taken as the future journey preparation. The present and future youth has to be as the consumers of evil filers.

The outstanding celebrities as the individuals of the youth have to be appreciated with the entire door opened nationally and internationally for the all kinds of opportunities of development supported and assisted by the outstanding institutions. The youth has to given the guidance to be the strong the pillar for the crisis depression and drug use. Different challenges of the different youth section could be dealt separately like urban youth school youth university youth boys and girls. The proper counseling opportunities could be provided for the youth for the money matter Sexuality terrorist stress attacks modern technologies and inventions. Communications skills leadership skills professionalism spiritual and moral growth could be invested in the youth as the treasure of the nation. Sense of capacity building and the sense of creativities make our youth the jewelers of our community. Comprehensive presentation of the personality among all kinds of people and the modernizing intellectual power for demanded adjustments and dialogues could taken as the art of our youth. We must draw out our youth from the well of the inferiority complex and circumstances.

[Sharon Pennsylvania] St Nicholas Center offers homeless men a home and guidance in return for work on the grounds. This program of the Archdiocese has helped over fifty men in the last four years. Nine of these men have been chrismated into the Orthodox Catholic Church coming from pasts that did not include any church affiliation. Currently, several men are being cared for at St Sophia's that includes their room, food, their prescriptions, toiletries, personal needs, the outings they enjoy, and the new life they have found centered on Christ. However, this is costing the Archdiocese much money and we are now brought to our knees asking for your assistance. We are in need of donations here so that our work started can continue. In addition to the homeless, we have also adopted seven kittens/cats that were destined to die without intervention. If you can find it in your heart to help with our expenses please send you donation to St Nicholas Center, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146, or you may do so on your credit card through PayPal. Please make checks payable to "EOCC." We are 501(c)(3) tax exempt. Thank you.

"Giving to Glorify God" (Matthew 6: 1-4). The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Metropolis would like to thank the following for their generosity and love shown to God and His Church. Those wishing their names withheld are shown as "Anonymous." Those not wanting their location known are left blank. Donation statements upon request. You are asked to consider a donation to help the Church with all its missions and programs by sending yours to the Metropolis of St Peter, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146; or by using your credit card to make a donation through PayPal. All donations are tax-deductible . Please make your check payable to "EOCC." Every donor of $25.00 or more will receive a gratuit gift of a beautiful wooden cross with Christ necklace with cord chain valued at $15.00. Those of $100.00 or more will receive the same along with another selected gift all valued over $50.00 from the Holy Metropolis.

[Sharon PA] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, in his desire to reunite canonically sound jurisdictions outside our Holy Metropolis, or some schismatics in the Succession of Metropolitan Mor Timotheos who have maintained the true faith, and separated parishes possessing our Apostolic Heritage, has implemented a new policy for the Archdiocese to follow during this time. He stated: "It is our mission, and one that would pleasing to Christ that we all be one, at this time to initiate dialogue with canonical jurisdictions that might be interested in our reunification dialogue with the Syriac Patriarchate of Antioch, and who might wish to consider "union" or "patrimony." with our Church and our Primate. In our investigation of the many schismatic groups that have sprung up since 1932, it is evident that there are a few who are making an effort to maintain the Orthodox Catholic faith and theology, but many more who are simply uncanonical in their status and heretical in their teachings and not worthy of dialogue with us for many reasons.

Patrimony , which was recently approved by the Primatial See, is the blessing from our Primate to establish within our Primatial Archdiocese certain "Personal Ordinariates" for those of other ecclesial heritages/traditions who wish to enter full communion with the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church, while maintaining certain non-conflicting but important elements of their spiritual and liturgical backgrounds. Equivalent to a diocese, the "ordinariate" is composed of parishes, religious communities, and individuals of another ecclesiastical heritage gathered around its Ordinary, but with fidelity to the Primatial See and Holy Metropolis. The Ordinary serves under the direct authority of the Primate, in partnership with the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite Synod of Bishops, to build up the Church through mutual mission and ministry while retaining elements of their heritage. The members of the Ordinariate include "those faithful of every category or state of life, who, originally having belonged to another heritage or canonical jurisdiction, who are now in full communion with the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church and its Primatial See, or who have received the sacraments of initiation within the jurisdiction of the Ordinariate itself, or who are received into it because they are part of a family belonging to the Ordinariate." Those interested are asked to contact the Primatial Archdiocese at sgaocc@gmail.com or by postal mail to St Nicholas Center, 4556 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. This became effective on May 1st, 2014 until December 31st, 2014 and is hereby promulgated according to our canons.

His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, at the request of His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of Antioch, issued a "Mission Statement of the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church" in August 2014 to His Holiness giving the reasons for wanting to be reunited with the Syriac Patriarchate of Antioch, and what our mission is both now and in the future regarding this matter. The Mission Statement contained some history of the Holy Metropolis from the time of His Beatitude Metropolitan Timotheos Vilathi (1892) until now. It also mentioned various reasons why our jurisdiction prays and hopes to be reunited to the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch.

His Eminence Archbishop Timothy Kjera, Coadjutor of the Holy Metropolis, witnessed the signing of the "Statement" at St Nicholas Center in Sharon Pennsylvania. Archbishop Timothy, in an email to all bishops of the Synod, advised them, once again, to realize that the reunion process is still going on and that no member of the clergy or laity should make any statements that might suggest that union has already been effected and blessed by His Holiness. This matter was discussed on May 15, 2014 when His Beatitude and His Eminence met with His Holiness in Teaneck New Jersey at St Mark's Cathedral and Archdiocesan Center.

According to His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, V Primate (Canonical Succession from His Beatitude Metropolitan Timotheos Vilathi), stated: "The Primatial See will not tolerate any infractions against the directive issued to our clergy and laity regarding the reunion process, especially making premature statements or assumptions not authorized by the Primatial See and/or Archdiocese. Our prayer and our hope is to see this reunion happen soon by the grace of God! We continue, as we have since this decision of reunion was made in 2009, to pray for the Syriac Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch during our Holy Liturgy of the Mass, and we continue our prayers to the Holy Spirit to guide us and bless us along this journey. However, until an official decree is issued by the Patriarchate and announced by the Primatial See, nothing else should be stated by any of our faithful concerning this matter."

His Eminence Archbishop Timothy also requested that all the faithful keep in their prayers His Beatitude Mor Baselius Thomas I, Catholicose of the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church of India and the East, for it was in India that our first Metropolitan Archbishop Timotheos Vilathi was consecrated on May 29, 1892 under a Bull issued by His Holiness Ignatius Peter III of Blessed Memory. He stated, "It is just and appropriate that we pray for His Beatitude Mor Baselius Thomas I and all his successors as well as his predecessors."

The Primate made it very clear that although the American Archdiocese established in 1892 has been separated officially from the Patriarchate since about 1920 (but unofficially before then), it realizes that the separation was not an action that the Church wants today. This separation initiated before us in time was one that should not have been impulsively done without negotiation efforts with His Holiness Ignatius Elias III of Blessed Memory who was Patriarch from 1917-1932. Although some of the issues at the time of His Beatitude Mor Timotheos were legitimate, the results of the Chicago (Synod) Consistory in 1920, called by him, caused a hasty and lasting separation from the Mother Church and its Holy See in Antioch.

The Archdiocese is offering clergy and seminarians a very inexpensive training program who need training in the revised Liturgy of the Mass of St Gregory according to the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite. This program will include an audio-video recording of the Mass along with an explanation of the rubrics. In addition, the new Liturgikon will be included that will contain the Liturgy and its rubrics along with the proper prayers for certain feasts and Holy Days. The reduced cost for this educational course will be $295.00 until July 18th, 2014. Those wishing a Licentiate in Ministry (Liturgical Studies - $395.00) will also receive the "Prayers Behind the Ambon", The Rites of Baptism/Chrismation, Matrimony, and Funerals. This can be ordered from St Nicholas Center, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon Pennsylvania 16146. If you have any questions about this they may be addressed to the address of the "OCH" on heading of the newsletter.

THE SYRIAC-GREEK ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ON FAITH & TRADITION

What memorials are held in the Orthodox Catholic Church for the deceased? (Joseph Kane, Albuquerque NM)

A. In the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church, and many other Orthodox Christian Churches, it is customary for a forty-day mourning period after the person's passing. Within those forty days, a memorial is celebrated on the 30th, 60th, and 90th days. Annually on the anniversary of one's death there is also a memorial which should be planned by the family along with the parish priest. After the forty days and the observances noted above, memorials are then celebrated at three months, six months, nine months, and one year, and then annually on the anniversary of the death for at least seven years. For close relatives, the mourning period may last from three months to one year, during which widows and widowers may wear only black clothing and will recite the Service of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Service of the Saints regularly each Saturday and often with their families. Other prayers may be added but all prayer services should end with: "Lord, have mercy on the soul of N, and all your faithful departed, who by Your mercy, O God, rest in the sleep of peace. Amen." Close relatives may also stay home from work for one week and avoid social gatherings for up to two months. Boiled wheat, olive oil, red wine, and prosphora is brought to the church and given to the priest to be blessed at the memorial. Usually enough boiled wheat, olive oil, wine, and prosphora to share with all present.

A. There is so much to say about St John Chrysostom who is known as one of greatest theologians of the Orthodox Christian Church along with St Basil and St Gregory the Theologian. This venue does not allow such detail and biography, but I will give you some insight. He was born c.347 AD and died in 407 AD and was an important Early Church Father. He was a Bishop and Doctor of the Church. He is known for his preaching and public speaking, and his denunciation of abuse of authority by both ecclesiastical and political leaders. He is the author of one of the Church's great Liturgies, i.e., the Divine Liturgy of St John Chrysostom. His name "Chrysostom" means golden-mouthed in Greek and was given on account of his legendary eloquence. The Orthodox Catholic and Eastern Catholic Churches honor him as a saint and count him among the Three Holy Hierarchs, together with St Basil the Great and St Gregory the Theologian (aka St Gregory of Nazianzus). He is recognized by the Eastern Orthodox Christian, Eastern /Oriental Orthodox Catholic, and the Roman Catholic Churches as a saint and as a Doctor of the Church. His feast day in the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church, and some other Orthodox Christian Churches, is commemorated on November 13 - the day of his "Accession to the Archbishopric of Constantinople."

Why was St Julius of Goa 'demoted' from saint in the "OCH"? Esther Masoogian (St Louis MO)

A. St. Julius of Goa, better known as Mar Julius or Alvares Mar Yulios, is a saint of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church who lived in the 19th and early 20th centuries. St. Julius is commemorated by the Diocese of Brahmavar of the Malankara Orthodox Church on September 23. He was one of the consecrating bishops of our I Primate of America (May 1892) and our Church, His Beatitude Metropolitan Timotheos Vilathi. The Orthodox Christian Herald did not 'demote' him as a saint. Although the Holy Syriac Patriarchate of Antioch has not yet recognized his sanctification (or canonization), the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church recognizes him as a saintly person and worthy of the title of 'saint' given him by the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.

Why is there a break in the time-line listing primates of the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Succession? Greg Hammond (Champagne IL)

A. The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Succession of Primates shows only the primates after His Beatitude Metropolitan Timotheos Vilathi who were canonical in their administration, teachings, beliefs, and episcopal ministry in the Church. Some of the successors to the Primacy of the Church after Their Beatitudes Metropolitan Timotheos -I Primate- and Metropolitan Frederick Lloyd -II Primate-, e.g., Archbishop Daniel Hinton, were theosophists and adopted some heretical views. These men were listed as only "archbishops" and not "primates," The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Primatial See does not recognize them as "Primates of the Church." Canonicity did not return to the Church until April 1966 with the consecration of His Beatitude Metropolitan Joseph John Skureth, III Primate. This has also occurred in some Patriarchal Successions as well where the Patriarchal Throne was vacant for a time.

A. The Oriental Orthodox Churches are among the oldest Churches in existence and "Oriental" refers to the communion of Eastern Orthodox Christian Churches that recognizes only the first three Ecumenical Councils instead of all seven as do the Byzantine Orthodox, i.e., only the Councils of Nicea, Constantinople, and Ephesus. The Council of Chalcedon (4th Ecumenical Council) is rejected due to the Christology expressed at that Council. The dogmatic definitions of Chalcedon state that Christ is "in" two natures, human and divine, while the Oriental Orthodox Catholics believe that Christ has one incarnate nature "from" two natures, as a baby is one being from two parents and not one baby in two natures. The Oriental Orthodox Christian family consists of several autocephalous jurisdictions (Churches), i.e., Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria; Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch; Armenian Orthodox Church of All Armenians; Orthodox Syrian Church of the East – Indian Orthodox Church (Malankara); Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church; Armenian Apostolic Church of Cilicia; and the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church. The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church also accepts the Christology of the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch to which it hopes to be reunited (after almost 100 years of separation) under the pontificate of His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of Antioch & All East).

If you have a question about the faith or the Orthodox Catholic Church, please send it to:
OCH Editor
456 Nimick Street
Sharon PA 16146.

The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Archdiocese of the Orthodox Catholic Church, like other small Orthodox jurisdictions, realizes that there are members who live far away from the nearest parish to them. In some cases, there are parishes of other jurisdictions that are in communion with us or in which mutual recognition has been exchanged. In such cases our members may attend those churches until one of ours is opened in their locality. In other cases, there are those living in an area with no parish at all to attend, and for them they may belong to an existing parish and be on its rolls as a member. Such persons would be allowed to use the Typica Service within their homes on Sunday and Holy Days. Domestic Churches, Chapels, and Communities 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 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. If you are interested in assisting the Archdiocese in establishing a mission parish in your area, please write to us.

MANDATE TO ALL CLERGY – (07.10.14) The Primate has requested that all clergy refrain from placing any information on their websites that may suggest or cause others to think that we are already in union with the Holy See of the Patriarchate of Antioch. As stated previously, the reunification dialogue is very delicate and still in process. Those who fail to follow this Mandate will be reprimanded and, if necessary, disciplined.

HOLY METROPOLIS RESURRECTS TERMS "PRIMATIAL SEE & PRIMATIAL ARCHDIOCESE" – (07.14.14.1) Because the Church has only had one Archdiocese since His Beatitude Metropolitan Mor Joseph (John Skureth) and this has been maintained since 1966. However, petitions have been made to the Primatial See to rescind this "moratorium" on canonizing new archdioceses where needed and His Beatitude has agreed to investigate this matter further. This is being considered for two dioceses in Africa. In preparation for this, the Primate has brought back into usage the term "Primatial See" of the Holy Metropolis which has not been used since 1995, and was made official on July 24th, 2014.

OFFICIAL COMMEMORATION AT ALL MASSES – (06.29.14.1) Ordered by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen V Primate of the Church – His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, enthroned as the 123rd Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch & All East on May 29, 2014, shall be commemorated in the Liturgy of the Mass and all other litanies in all services of the Church.

ANNUAL DAY OF COMMEMORATION – (09.17.11.1) Ordered by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen V Primate of the Church – (St) Julius of Goa, Archbishop (B. April 29, 1836 - D. September 23, 1923) will be commemorated annually in the Liturgy of the Mass in all parishes. Our jurisdiction has much to be proud of as he was a consecrator of His Beatitude Metropolitan Timotheos Vilathi, I Primate, on May 29th, 1892.

Note: Due to the unrest and turmoil going on in the Democratic Republic of the Congo all ordinations in this country have been put on hold until further notice. Let us pray for immediate peace there.

Note: We ask that all readers and members of the Commission on Religious Counseling & Healing and our clergy to please keep in your prayers Dr Michael Farley who is seriously ill at this time. We also ask your prayers for his wife, Anna.

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.

MAY THEIR SOULS REST IN PEACE!
Lord, have mercy on their souls and all Your faithful departed, who by Your mercy, O God, rest in the sleep of peace. Amen!

[Africa] Shem Oeri Morengo, (b. August 24, 1984 - d. August 21, 2014), who was a member of Holy Apostles of Christ Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Mission Parish of Kenya Africa. Burial was on Friday August 29, 2014. May he rest in peace!

Note: If you had a passing in your family or at your local parish, please let us know so that they can be noted in this section for prayers.

The Primatial See of the Holy Metropolis began investigating and reviewing proposals from the Holy Synod of Bishops and other clergy related to the establishment of other dioceses in Africa, and the establishment of two lesser archdioceses to handle large territories in Africa under the Primatial Archdiocese. The Primatial See has never established additional archdioceses (except some in communion with us) until 1920, and since 1966 under His Beatitude Metropolitan Joseph John of Blessed Memory, no decrees were issued for an additional archdiocese(s)! Since that time there has been one archdiocese and one archbishop only. Historically, the Church only had one archdiocese in 1892 when our first Primate was consecrated in a Bull issued by His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Peter III. This continued for some years but later in time some archdioceses were formed that were in communion (not union) with our Church, but under various other archbishops. However, by his authority and blessing, this tradition has now been relaxed by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen by accepting the petition of the Synod of Bishops, but only in conformance with the new policies on this matter approved by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen on August 1, 2014. His Beatitude has mixed feelings about this matter, but prays it is for the good of the Church. His Beatitude said: "We will see the fruits of this new endeavor if it is to be seen, but for now we place this in the hands of God and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This break in tradition does not set a precedent to our canons, it merely opens a door to a trial provision so we can see the fruits of this endeavor." The following become official on November 1st, 2014 after the canonical decrees are sent to those bishops involved.

The (lesser) Archdiocese of Francophone African Countries will be made up of certain dioceses and vicariates located within its archdiocesan boundaries, e.g., Yaounde, Congo Kinshasa, and Congo Brazaville of which the two latter are dioceses. The See of this Archdiocese will be domiciled in Cameroon and under His Excellency Archbishop Pierre Tang. This archdiocese will oversee the French-speaking countries for the most part. The archdiocese will be under the Primatial Archdiocese and its Ordinary for all conflicts, disciplinary appeal issues, and ordination approvals to major orders. The Archbishop will actually be a Vicar Archbishops of the Primatial Archdiocese.

The (lesser) Archdiocese of Anglophone African Countries will include the East African and West African countries as Nigeria is located within the Western African countries. This archdiocese will oversee the English-speaking countries for the most part. The See of this Archdiocese will be domiciled in Nigeria and under His Excellency Archbishop Anthony MacFonse akinnugba of Nigeria. The archdiocese will be under the Primatial Archdiocese and its Ordinary for all conflicts, disciplinary appeal issues, and ordination approvals to major orders. Again, the Archbishop will actually be a Vicar Archbishops of the Primatial Archdiocese official on July 14, 2014.

A decree canonically establishing the new Archdioceses will come from the Primate, and will be sent to the Archbishops of the new Archdioceses. Uganda was made a vicariate in 2008 but has been without a vicar since 2012, and the investigation and review of a new vicar will be under Archbishop Anthony of Nigeria with his findings sent to the Primatial See for review and decision. Still pending approval is the annexation of the South African countries with the (lesser) Archdiocese of Anglophone African Countries. The archbishops having charge of these new archdioceses will actually be "Vicar Archbishops" of the Archbishop Ordinary of the Primatial Archdiocese. Archbishop Pierre Tang of Cameroon will be overseer of the two new dioceses of Congo Brazaville and Congo Kinshasa in Central Africa. The Primatial See will make further decisions around December 20th, 2014 after meeting with Archbishop Anthony MacFonse akinnugba at the Holy Metropolis during his visit to the Primate and Archbishop Coadjutor at St Nicholas Center.

Vicar Archbishops of the Primatial Archdiocese serve at the pleasure of the Primate but under the supervision of the Coadjutor Archbishop. Major orders must be approved by the Primatial See at least 30 days before announcing such within any archdiocese or diocese and a complete resume of the intended ordinands must be sent to the Primatial See for review. No consecration of any bishop-elect may take place without a decree issued by the Primatial See. To do otherwise will end up with an illicit act regarding such a consecration and will be handled by the Primatial See. On May 15, 2014, His Holiness requested that our jurisdiction not be hasty in ordaining new bishops and that all candidates be reviewed and that a need for a bishop be justified. The Primatial See will enforce these new policies and will take action against any bishop not following the policies or canons of this jurisdiction. As "Vicar Archbishops" they represent the Archbishop Ordinary in their respective territories with the authority given to them. The "Primatial Legate" represents His Beatitude the Primate within the parameters approved.

All plans now approved means that Africa will no longer have a "First Diocese of Nigeria and All Africa" overseeing all of the continent, but would now have two archdioceses covering the continent. Nigeria is the first canonically established diocese of the Church in Africa, and will always be remembered as such. The Archdiocese of the Anglophone African Countries will serve as the overseer of all Africa headed by His Excellency Archbishop Anthony MacFonse akinnugba CSB, who will also serve the Holy Metropolis as Primatial Legate of the Holy Metropolis and the Primatial Archdiocese of the Americas & All Dependencies (United States of America) for Africa. The Diocese of Congo Brazzaville and the Diocese of Congo Kinshasa. Brazzaville is currently oversee by His Grace Bishop Donatus (Donatien) Abel Tshitanta, and Kinshasa is under a bishop-elect remaining "in pectore" - ( Latin for "in the heart"), and means that a bishop-elect has been named but remains in the heart of the Primate and is not disclosed until the Holy Metropolis wishes and only then will his intended consecration and his name be officially announced. This can also mean that one already consecrated is not named and who may not officially exercise his powers and faculties until his name is officially disclosed by the Holy Metropolis.

Here at home, Cameroon and Nigeria are terrorized by an Islamic movement called "BOKO HARAM". We do not go a day without crime, and kidnappings are counted throughout the Cameroon-Nigeria border and border towns. But notwithstanding this, we move with the greatest caution. Moreover, on the day of August 8, 2014 in Washington DC, President Barack Obama and the United States signed a very active cooperation and participatory as affects health, education, agriculture, livestock, fisheries, industry and international security, with Cameroon, my country and the whole of Africa in general. For that, and for this purpose, can you on behalf of the Church and of fraternities there help us get and find partners for the flow of aid as there are few genres for the integral development of our Church around the world and Africa?

Because, I have 300,000 hectares of forest land in the government of my country, Cameroon has committed to provide us as soon as one is currently attached to farming and other ... because here there is less schools, trades, and training existing. Some of thsee are less efficient. We have agricultural projects such as: planting corn, sweet plantain and banana - to palm oil, cocoa, coffee plantations, and pig farms, poultry, fish, etc. I am trying to engage myself, if you can find us partners, really seriously. It's anting to develop these projects I just mentioned that I came several times in America. I could not find good only false partners who had never respected the agreements.

Cameroon is Africa in miniature, in the heart of the Gulf of Guinea, the input and output of all of Central Africa in general. I decided that all my bishops you should write each in the respect that you have an idea on my archdiocese in Cameroon. I'm trying to engage me, if you can find us partners, really seriously It's wanting to develop these projects I just mentioned that I came several times in America. I could not find that false partners who had never respected the agreements. Cameroon is Africa in miniature, in the heart of the Gulf of Guinea, the input and output of all of Central Africa in general. I decided that regarding all my bishops here you write to each in the respect that you have an idea on my archdiocese in Cameroon. All understand and obey well. I get inspired when I can find serious partners.

Currently, in the field of forestry and wood logs. I represent a Cameroonian company for all this and once the Church Orthodoxy is developed in Africa, because of its immaturity, we can move on. All our developments are primarily spiritual.

Note from Editor: Archbishop Pierre Tang oversees Cameroon and those countries surrounding it under his omophor. He oversees many missions, various orphanages, and several other missionary endeavors in what is called the "Francophone African Countries." His country, like many others, is under great distress and much pain and suffering because of war, hostility, and poverty. If any of our readers feel it in their heart to make a donation to his Archdiocese and the mission work going on under extremely hostile conditions, please send it to the "Orthodox Christian Herald" and marked for "Cameroon Assistance." I know he will be most grateful. If you know of any persons who might be able to assist him in the work he is doing to promote Christianity and build more missions, please let us know.

[Bangalore India] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen announced that Father Benedict Sunil has been appointed the first Superior General of the newly established community of the Oblates of Mary Mother of God. The Oblates will be headquartered at St John Chrysostom Church in Bangalore India. The decree was issued by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen on August 28th, 2014. This sister-branch of the Community of St Basil is open to married and single/celibate men and women wanting to share in the monastic prayer life of the Church and its good works of mercy. The community is also open to clergy who wish to be part of the monastic prayer life and good works but not under vows. The Oblates of Mary Mother of God is a semi-autonomous community under the omophor of the Community of St Basil. Father Sunil advised the Primatial See that there are already about eight interested persons in the Oblates who wish to join the community soon. We pray for more interest in the Oblates. Father Benedict Sunil has demonstrate great sincerity in his service to the Holy Metropolis and the Church.

[Kenya] Seminarian Matthew Fred Onwonga of Nyamarambe Kisi Kenya is administrator of Holy Apostles of Christ Mission that has 76 members all of whom have converted to Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholicism from the Protestant Evangelical Church. Holy Apostles of Christ Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Mission is working hard with limited funds to continue building their parish church. The parish is in need of chairs for the faithful to sit on during liturgy when allowed. The Primatial See has assisted them with the purchase of approximately 15/20 chairs. Your donation of $100.00 can buy them 10 chairs. We are hoping that those reading this will make a donation to help build for Christ. They are in need of many other furnishings including building materials. Seminarian Matthew is currently completing preparation for ordination to minor orders and majors orders of Deacon and Priest. The chrismation of all the faithful will be handled by the First Diocese of Nigeria and His Excellency Archbishop Anthony MacFonse Akinnugba. If anyone would care to help us help them, please make your donation out to "EOCC" and note it for Holy Apostles of Christ Mission of Kenya and mail to the OCH address on heading of this newsletter.

[Sharon PA] Father Christopher Tamale sent some beautiful handmade items from Kiboga Uganda to be sold at Holy Trinity Bookstore & Gift Shop in Sharon Pennsylvania. The profits from these items will be sent to Uganda to help the mission parishes there in their survival. If you wish to purchase some by mail, please contact the bookstore and ask for a catalog of items and price list. There are change purses, purses for women, hats, jewelry, coconut bracelets, and many other beautifully handmade gifts. The Metropolis has several very poor parishes in Uganda. There are also two schools for children in Uganda under our omophor. We are asking that all try to make a purchase to help with the great poverty being experience by the faithful. If you wish to assist please contact Brother Vincent Cappabianca CSB, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146, and a catalog will be sent. You can call (724) 308.6218. You can also just send a cash donation by check or via PayPal. Please mark your donation for Uganda Vicariate and payable to "EOCC."

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 3,000 people and growing.

Framed Icon of St Panteleimon, Patron of Healers Available from the Archdiocesan Chancery, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146, these icons are suitable for hanging in counseling centers, clinics, and in the home. $40.00 reduced to $30.00, 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. Write for a catalog or additional information to Father Patrick Lemming or Presbytera Josie Lemming, St James House, 804 Catlett Road, Sevierville TN 37862.

Primatial Archdiocese of the Americas & Dependencies - Write to His Eminence Archbishop Timothy Kjera, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146.

Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing CRCH.RBSOCC.ORG For information on the Commission write – Vincent Cappabianca CSB, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. This is an organization of 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 wishing to share in the good works and prayers of the Monastic Community of St Basil. Those interested in the Companions of St Basil should write to the Moderator, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. Women interested in the Companions of St Basil may also write for information.

Community of St Basil / Sisters of St Basil is open to those who wish to follow a monastic way of life. Write to Community of St Basil, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. The Community has monastic centers in the African Congo, Nigeria, Alaska (USA), and Pennsylvania (USA). The Sisters of St Basil are headquartered in the African Congo. In addition to Priests, Brothers, and Nuns, there are also Companions of the Community. His Eminence Archbishop Timothy is the interim Archabbot.

Oblates of Mary Mother of God is open to those who wish to follow a monastic way of life and prayers but not under the traditional vows of monastic members. This is a sister-branch of the Community of St Basil, a monastic community of men, and also women belonging to the Sisters of St Basil. Established on June 27th, 2014, VR Father Benedict Sunil OMMG is the first Superior General of this community named by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, Primate. Headquarters will be at St Jhn Chrysostom Church of Bangalore India. Contact information will be listed in next edition of OCH.

All Saints Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 2216 Culver Avenue, Anchorage Alaska, Chorbishop Haralambos Winger, Pastor.

All Saints of Ireland Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Parish, 16 Lios NA Circle, Saleen Castlebar County Mayo, Republic of Ireland; VR Archimandrite Fr Padraig Kneafsey, Pastor. Contact Father Padraig for Mass schedule.

Holy Ghost Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, Oceanside California, Very Reverend Archpriest Stephen Lawrence, Pastor. Contact rbsocc@juno.com for more information.

St Andrew the Apostle Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church located at 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth Minnesota 55807. To reopen in 2014.

St Athanasius Major Seminary Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic , 7 Orthodox Avenue, Makogi Ogun State Nigeria (Africa). His Excellency Archbishop Anthony MacFonse, Rector.

St Anthony the Great Pro-Cathedral Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic, His Excellency Archbishop Anthony MacFonse, Pastor.

Ss Cosmas and Damian Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Chapel , 785 Grand Avenue #206, Carlsbad California; Very Reverend Archpriest Stephen Lawrence, Pastor.

St John Chrysostom Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church, Bangalore India. Father Benedict Sunil, Pastor.

St John the Evangelist Center Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic, Tennessee. Father Gerasimos Slessinger, Prefect of Seminarians & Monastic Candidates & Director.

St Nicholas of Myra Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Chapel & Homeless Center, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. Sunday Liturgy of the Mass at 11:00 am; Holy Days at 7:00 pm or as announced; and Holy Unction of the Sick as announced.

Ss Vladimir & Olga Chapel, St Paul Minnesota. Father Vladimir Raasch. (Send email to Chancery for more information. This mission is not under the omophor of the Holy Metropolis, but is in association with it. Contact rbsocc@juno.com for more information.