WHY ORTHODOXY? By Bishop Demetri The Orthodox Church is the one, true Church of Christ, with an unbroken tradition of almost 2,000 years, reaching back to the time of Apostles. It also believes that it has a scared duty to receive, preserve and pass on the true Faith from one generation to the next. As such the Orthodox Church has a great deal to say to the average American about many current theological issues Jesus, Mary the Mother of God, the Scriptures, the role of tradition, and other serious questions such as, What is salvation? How do I achieve it? What about my spiritual life? The Orthodox Church believes that the Spirit of God speaks to the faithful through apostolic tradition, of which scripture is an important part. Additional sources of teaching include but are not limited to the Seven Ecumenical Councils, the Church Fathers and Mothers, liturgy, canons, icons, and architecture. Each contributes in some aspect to the understanding of the faith in the way that it expresses it. Most well known to non-Orthodox are icons, those mysterious images of saints, event and feast days which grace the walls of every Orthodox church. Painted in a highly stylized way, these teach the faithful in a visual manner the doctrines and dogmas of the faith. Non-Orthodox is frequently confused by the Orthodox practice of offering incense to icons, mistakenly thinking that we are worshipping icons. In fact we venerate of "hold in high esteem" the icons and reserve our worship for the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Trinity! Orthodox worship is a veritable feast for the five senses. The emissaries of the Russian Czar when they first saw their first Divine Liturgy said, "We did not know if we were in heaven or on earth." Such was the beauty and grandeur of what they experienced. There are music, bells, singing, prostrations, the sign of the cross, a visual display of icons and vestments and clergy in procession, incense, receiving Holy Communion, and much more, befitting the majesty of God. The Orthodox faith teaches that because the whole person participates in salvation, the whole person should participate in worship, with the five senses brought into play during services. But there is much more, much, much more to the Orthodox Church. The Orthodox faith believes in the mystery and transcendence of God. What we know about God is what He has revealed to us, and nothing more. God is compassionate and wants eternal life and salvation for all His creatures. For this reason He has established One Church, the sacraments and the spiritual life. Taken together they provide a unique opportunity for each person to encounter his/her God and to work out their salvation here on earth. Did you know that there are some 225 million Orthodox Christians worldwide and over 6 million here in the United States? Orthodoxy is the second largest group in all of Christendom.
COUNCIL OF CANONICAL AUTOCEPHALOUS ORTHODOX BISHOPS
"The Council of Canonical Autocephalous Orthodox Bishops will become a shinning example to all others of how true Orthodox Christians should live together in peace and love for the greater glory of God, and the good
continuity of His Holy Church." (Stated by Archbishop Stephen at the announcement of the First Syndesmos). The First Syndesmos (CCAOB) will take place from August 1st-2nd, 2008. Several of
the interested bishops had other obligations and could not attend this year so the meeting was postponed. The Syndesmos will be held at St Mary Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota. Those interested in being a part of CCAOB must be in
attendance or should arrange to send a representative with authority to act for his jurisdiction.
SYNOD AND CONFERENCE SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 2008 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.
CHRIST THE PANTOCRATOR SOVEREIGN ORDER OF CHIVALRY [Metropolia] Following is a list of the new officers and members of the Christ the Pantocrator Sovereign Order of Chivalry with the blessing of His Beatitude the Primate.
NOBLES OF THE ORDER: CHEVALIERS OF THE ORDER: 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 1 st, 2008. This may be sent to St Mary Cathedral, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807.
ST MARK-ROMANO BYZANTINE GRADUATE GETS RECOGNITION [Texas] Dr Andrew Gill, Th.Psy.D., member of the Archdiocesan Advisory Council, and a member of the Roman Catholic Church, earned his doctorate in Theocentric Psychotherapy from St Mark seminary-Romano Byzantine College in 2005. When he originally applied at Nolan High School for a teaching position they denied his use of the title "Doctor." This based upon the fact his degree was earned outside their recognized schools. However, after communication with their superintendent by His Excellency Bishop Timothy, and persistence by Andrew Gill, Fort Worth Roman Bishop Kevin Vann overruled this. The Bishop instated Andrew's title, and the superintendent reinstated his title of "doctor" at Nolan Catholic High School. Congratulations, Andrew! The decision was made mostly for ecumenical reasons and an affirmation of Christian religious accreditation such as St Mark-Romano Byzantine College holds.
PRIMATE'S MESSAGE TO THE FAITHFUL September 8, A.D. 2007
Most Reverend Bishops, Honorable Clergy and Monastics, and Esteemed Faithful: This lowly servant of God, a sinner, your spiritual father, greets you all! As we begin a new Church Year and approach a
new civil year, we must reflect on the year past and ask ourselves "what have we really done for God and His Church?" Have we given all that we could or did we give nothing or just enough? Did we give to the support of the Church
as often as possible, or did we only offer excuses as to why we could give nothing? Were all the clergy generous to the Metropolia in their financial assistance and in moral support? Did we make an honest effort to be at the annual
meetings of the Church, or did we find an excuse to keep us away? Did we give back to God at least a portion of what He generously gave to us to sustain us on this earth? There are many questions that we should ask ourselves and if
we find that there are not good answers to the questions, then maybe we need to make some positive changes. We all know someone who has passed on, and there probably have been many times we have said, or heard
others say, "I hope he/she made peace with God, and accomplished all they needed to do." So many times, death comes so quickly and without warning that time does not permit us reconciliation or completion of good works. While we
are alive and capable we should want to do all we can to show God our appreciation for all we have, especially His Son, our Savior. As we have heard many times, "I may pass this way but once, so let me do all the good I can for I
may not pass this way again." For many people the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church has been adopted by them as their church and ecclesial and spiritual security because they have nothing else of meaning. However, do they
contribute to it and to the many good ministries that it supports? This can be said also about many of its faithful who are members. The Church needs donations to survive on, it needs people who are willing to volunteer time to
serve where they can and when they can, and it needs prayers. Are we simply doing enough or doing as much as we possibly can? Although I believe that I have done many good things in my years of service, I still feel that I am a
failure. Perhaps no matter how much I achieve and do, there is always more that I can give, and when the end of the day comes and still there is something, even one thing, waiting to be done, I have failed. I have recently realized
that no matter how good I might be, no matter what I have done for the good of Church or others, I have done very little compared to what Christ God has done for me for us. However, this does not stop me from doing more. To my Bishops, my Priests, my Deacons, my Seminarians, my Monks and Nuns and Sisters, I beg you to stand firm in the faith 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. Be good and faithful Bishops and clergy and monastics, but daily strive to be better, and pray throughout the
day. Be obedient even when times are hard to be so. Do not be idle, this only serves the interests of Satan. Be diligent and work endlessly to please God, this will make you holier and more respected by all. Defend the Church, its
Primate, its Canons, its Faith, its people, and do so with great fidelity and courage so that your works become worthy of greater love from God. If I error, do not emulate these human mistakes, but gently correct me and pray for
me, and then do what you should do for the greater honor and glory of God. Emulate only my good deeds, forgive my failings, offer me counsel so that I become a better servant of God, and, again, pray for me as I do for you. Be what
you were ordained or blessed to be and do not cheapen the office you have received because you will also attack Our Lord. Do good works not for your own glory or to be praised or seen by others, but to please God.
To my faithful children, the laity that makes up the Church, that are the Church, remain faithful to sound and original doctrines and faith as taught by Christ and the Apostles and the Church Fathers. Do not allow Satan to distract
you from truth and what is right by opening your eyes to easier ways and man-made doctrines. Pray daily and be with God as much as possible, for He loves you so very much. Pray for the Church and its clergy, and always do your best
to help others who are deprived of faith to learn what you have learned. Those who are licensed providers and counselors of the Church, be faithful to your oaths and to your healing vocation. Give of yourself always even to those
who cannot afford your services or those you may not like. Be supportive of the Commission and the Church, for both of these support you and give you so very much in return. Do all that you can for the good of humanity not for
praise from others, but for the greater glory of Almighty God. Finally, to Bishop Timothy, my Coadjutor, realize what is coming your way when you become the Eighth Archbishop of the United States and Dependencies.
I give to you a part of the honors granted to me by God. Use this office not for yourself, but for those you serve so that all your actions will be acceptable to God and pleasing to Him and others. Allow the Saints and Holy Ones in
heaven to rejoice and never bring tears to them by your actions. Allow other bishops to counsel you and listen to what they say. Be one with the faithful and keep them in the good graces of the Church. Do all you do for God, that
I, and all those before me, can be proud of you and rejoice with all the citizens of heaven. Never place anything before your work and responsibilities that may prevent you from accomplishing something good or keeping viable the
Archdiocese. Learn humility and be obedient that others may see your good attributes. Remember in prayer us sinners who before you have also served as Bishops Ordinary of the Archdiocese. Remember all your brothers and sisters in
faith who have passed this life in peace, and remember that one day you, too, will pass this life. Be a good and faithful servant of the Most Blessed Trinity. Defend the Church until your last breath. This I pray. To you I give my
support, and I shall always pray for your goodness in the Office that you will soon receive. I am confident that the Holy Synod of Bishops will support all your just and competent decisions because they are good and dedicated men
filled with the Holy Spirit. They have much to give so allow them to do so. This is my prayer and hope for the New Year, 2008. However, please do not wait to make changes but begin today. None of us know the
second or the day when death will knock on our door. I beg you to always be prepared like a good Boy Scout. I am very proud of you all. Be one with God so that He can be one with you. Doxa si Kyrie! Evlogite! +Stephen Metropolitan Primate
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 Nicholas Chancery, 1318 Baxter Avenue, Superior Wisconsin 54880-1762.
THE LINEN BURIAL CLOTH OF CHRIST Submitted By Dr Janet Maus DCh Why did Jesus fold the linen cloth after His resurrection? The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus (Editors note: often a tradition done to bishops of the Orthodox Church when they pass), was not just thrown aside like the grave cloths. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded, and was placed at he head of that stony coffin. Is that significant? Absolutely! In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition. When the servant set the dinner table for the Master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the Master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the Master had finished eating, and the servant would not dare touch that table, until the Master was finished. Now if the Master was done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard, and would wad up that napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, "I'm done." But if the Master got up from the table and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because the servant knew that the folded napkin meant, "I'm coming back." Jesus' folded napkin meant, "I'm coming back." Believe it, He will be back to gather His people unto Him.
Q. Is Aramaic used in the Syro-Russian Church? Deacon Yakoub Hanna (Australia) A. The Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church has never used Aramaic or Russian (Slavonic) in our Divine Liturgy, and from its beginning in the United States used mostly English but allowed the vernacular for other countries. In years past parishes in the United States, based upon the ethnic factors of each parish, used Polish, Italian, Spanish, French, and some other languages in certain parishes. If we had a parish made up of Syrians than Aramaic would be allowed. Q. What is Occidental Rite? Chris Manlon (Detroit MI) A. Occidental is another name for "Western." Western Rite Orthodox are those who are of the same faith as all Orthodox Christians, but because they were once associated with Rome or a Roman Rite, they use a Western Liturgy, e.g., Liturgy of St Gregory, or Liturgy of St Peter. The Liturgy conforms to Orthodox Theology. However, the Novus Ordo used by Rome is not allowed as Lutheran clergy created this for use in the Roman Church at the request of Pope Paul VI. Q. Is Orthodox Christianity united under one head as is Rome? Janice Morgan (South Haven IN) A. Orthodoxy is made up of various Orthodox families united in one faith under Christ God. Although one faith, it is a union of various Churches, e.g., Greek, Syro-Russian, Russian, Bulgarian, et cetera. Orthodoxy itself is divided into three major groups, also known as ecclesial families, Eastern Orthodox or Byzantine, Oriental or Non-Chalcedonian Orthodox, and the Assyrians. Most all the various Orthodox jurisdictions have Patriarchs or Primates who head them. Some are in union with one another and others are not. Some look to the Patriarchate of Constantinople as the spiritual father of Orthodox Christianity, and others do not. Some follow beliefs that are not accepted by the canonical Churches, e.g., the Oriental Orthodox.
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,
FROM A RUSSIAN PRIEST By Father Miltiades Efthimiou How Old is the Orthodox Faith? Some facts are hard to disprove: If you are
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:
APPOINTMENTS & ASSIGNMENTS
OFFICIAL FROM METROPOLIA Issue 1 (09.09.07/1): The 2007 Code of Canons and Statutes will be ready by January 1st, 2008. All clergy are to have a copy of this book, and it is highly recommended for all licensed providers as well. The cost will be $75.00. Please send your order to the Metropolia at St Mary Cathedral, 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth MN 55807. Issue 2 (10.01.07/1): Use of the term Vladyka in reference to a bishop is a Slavonic (Russian) custom and is not used in reference to bishops of the Syro-Russian Orthodox Catholic Church. The appropriate title is "Bishop" as used by the Greeks and others. When addressing a bishop of the Russian Church then use the terminology that they are use to, if desired. Reprinted (08.16.07/1): It was approved by the Synod of Bishops that no charter will be issued to any parish or organization that has not honestly maintained their financial and moral support to the Metropolia. A letter will be sent to all clergy of the Metropolia and Archdiocese by October 1st, 2007 concerning this matter. Reprinted (08.16.07/2): His Beatitude has directed that all parishes purchase the bound Liturgikon of the Metropolia and Archdiocese by November 1st, 2007, 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. Those with good reason who cannot attend, who also hold secular jobs, will be required to pay the fee for the annual Synod.
PAROCHIAL CHARTERS Established:
Dissolved:
DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
PRAY FOR THE SICK AND SUFFERING
Note: If you, or someone you know, is sick or suffering, please let us know and you (or they) will be added to the OCH Prayer List. Send full name, address and age. Thank you.
REST IN PEACE!
DONATIONS TO THE METROPOLIA
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.
NEWLY ESTABLISHED VICARIATES OF THE ARCHDIOCESE By Bishop Timothy of Duluth (MN) During the pontificate of Metropolitan Timotheos (of Blessed Memory) it became the tradition for now over 115 years for the Primate of the Church to also be the Bishop Ordinary of the Archdiocese. As of August 11th, 2007, this has changed by decree from His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, after he tendered his resignation to the Synod as Archbishop of the Archdiocese. His Beatitude strongly believes that bishops must become more involved in the administration of the Church, and that the Bishop Ordinary of the Archdiocese should be one other than the Archbishop so he can be molded into a good and dedicated servant of the faithful. This can best be done when a Primate is still alive rather than waiting until his death and then just tossing one into such an important and sacred position. In this way, the Archbishop (Bishop Ordinary) of the Archdiocese can be installed by the Primate himself. His Beatitude also made another historic step when he announced that the Archdiocese would be divided into three Episcopal Vicariates, this is the first step to becoming an eparchy. This is now official with the canonical establishment of the Western Vicariate of the United States and Canada, the Eastern Vicariate of the United States and Canada, and the Vicariate of Central and South America. Except for the Western Vicariate currently served by Archpriest Stephen Lawrence, auxiliary bishops, i.e., Bishop Simeon (Eastern) and Bishop Cyril (Central and South America), serve the other two. His Beatitude made it clear that " power cannot be in the hands of one man, but must be shared so that the faithful throughout the world have better attention and so their needs are served as best as they can be." He is the first Metropolitan of the Church in our 115 years of history as a jurisdiction to take such a step for the betterment of the Church. In addition, His Beatitude has provisionally granted missionary vicariate status to Nigeria, Tanzania, and Pakistan under Vicar Bishop Simeon of Cleveland, and Kenya under Vicar Bishop Cyril of Nicaragua, and to the United Kingdom under myself. Greece has been placed under the oversight of Archpriest Stephen Lawrence but not as a missionary vicariate at this time. Because of the many concerns and conflicts in Nigeria, His Beatitude has reduced it from a Diocese to a Vicariate for the time being. These changes will require much work on the parts of all those appointed to serve. We must work together as one under the competent leadership of our Primate, Metropolitan Stephen. Each of us now become pillars holding up the Church, we cannot afford to weaken with such a sacred edifice (and obligation) upon our shoulders. The Primate may reassign Tanzania in 2008 to another bishop. May God grant us all strength, wisdom, prudence, and a true sense of being obedient.
VICAR BISHOP FOR NIGERIA NEEDS COOPERATION [Cleveland Ohio] His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen requests that all clergy and seminarians in Nigeria, Tanzania, and Pakistan make contact with their newly appointed Vicar, Bishop Simeon, before December 1st, 2007. All are required to send bio-data, photo, and a description of their ministry or parish assignment. Copies are to be sent to the Metropolia. Only those clergy are file will be recognized as active within the Metropolia.
ST MICHAEL'S PARISH RECEIVES NEW FAMILY [St Cloud Minnesota] Shane and Alisha Olson and their family were chrismated into the Orthodox Catholic faith in July 2007, at St Mary Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota by Bishop Timothy of Duluth. They were previously members of the Roman Catholic Church. They are now very active members of St Michael & All Angels Church in St Cloud Minnesota where they have been attending since the founding of the parish in early 2007. Shane is now serving as an Acolyte as he prepares to become a Reader in 2008. Father Steven Johnson is pastor of St Michael's.
ST PATRICK OF IRELAND CHAPEL UNDER CONSTRUCTION [Cleveland Ohio] Bishop Simeon of Cleveland has announced that the chapel area of the Monastery of Our Lady of Sitka is now being constructed. It will be dedicated to the great patron of Ireland, St Patrick the Enlightener. Father Steven Johnson, of St Michael's Parish in St Cloud Minnesota, has been asked to make the analogia for the chapel patterned after those at the Cathedral in Duluth Minnesota.
MOSCOW PATRIARCHATE GREETS LATIN MASS [Moscow Russia] The motu proprio Summorum Pontificum that provides more freedom to use the pre-Vatican II Missal 'is a positive fact,' the head of Moscow Patriarchate Patriarch Alexey II said to comment on the Roman Catholic Church reintroducing her ancient liturgical form. 'We strongly adhere to the tradition. Without being faithful to her liturgy the Russian Orthodox Church would have failed to survive persecutions in 1920's and 1930's,' the Russian primate told the Italian daily Giornale on August 28, on the feast of the Dormition, after celebrating liturgy in the Cathedral of the Dormition in the Kremlin. Four Roman bishops from Italy were present at that liturgy according to Russian Interfax-religion reports. The patriarch opined that the pope's decision might contribute to establishing closer links with the Orthodox Churches, Giornale said. The older liturgy was abolished by Rome during the Second Vatican Council 1962-1965.
PATRIARCATE CLERGYMAN ACCUSED OF THEFT By Theodore Kalmoukos (National Herald) Note: Although this article dates back to May 26th, 2001, in keeping with the tradition of the Greek Archdiocese to bring up the past of others, we would like to emulate them just once and do the same. We would like to state that after the publication of this article, nothing more was ever read or heard. From The National Herald: Boston (Massachusetts) Demetrios Kaloidis, a
Greek American businessman from New York, fell victim of theft by a clergyman of the Ecumenical Patriarchate at his home in Long Island, New York. For a month, Kaloidis offered hospitality to Rev. Deacon Sevastianos
Tsagarakis, who is being accused by authorities of stealing expensive watches and other valuable items, including some $15,000.00 in cash, from his host's home. When Kaloidis realized that the items and cash were missing, he
confronted the cleric, who, at first, refused he had anything to do with it, prompting Kaloidis to call the police. During the police investigation Tsagarakis admitted his act and was arrested. He was later released on bail. The total value of the missing items is estimated at $250,000.00 while others believe that the value of the stolen items is higher. According to a source, the stolen items were recovered. In a telephone communication
with the Herald, Tsagarakis said that the whole issue is "a misunderstanding." Tsagarakis is a member of the Patriarchal staff, and is enlisted as a Patriarchal deacon. Patriarch Bartholomaios included Tsagarakis in his official
entourage during his visit to Greece last November (then November 2000). The National Herald has learned that an effort was made to keep the incident secret due to Tsagarakis' clerical position. The Herald also
learned that Tsagarakis was visiting the United States privately. As a cleric of the Patriarchate, Tsagarakis was supposed to report his arrival in the U.S. to the Archdiocese, according to the existing rules and canonical process.
He did not do so, however. He associated himself with St Irene Chrysovalantou (Greek) Monastery in Astoria New York. [End of Article] It is amazing how many wrongdoings are concealed, quieted, and even ignored by some jurisdictions with the finances to arrange such for their own protection. However, these very groups make certain to continue maligning smaller jurisdictions trying their best to damage their images to take suspicion off their own malfeasance and inappropriate conduct. Not long ago (2006), the Orthodox Church of America under Metropolitan Herman encountered bad publicity due to embezzlement of large sums of money by chancery officials. This started out as big news but soon after nothing more was heard. The Metropolitan silenced all members of his chancery. Before Metropolitan Herman, his predecessor allegedly also had problems that were quieted. Both the Greek Archdiocese and the OCA are members of SCOBA. No one stands blameless before God, but it would be a better world for the Church if all would realize that and speak about the good that others do instead of seeing one group malign another as both of the above have done..
ENCAPSULATED NOTES FROM SYNOD AND CONFERENCE The following are notes from the Synod of Bishops Consistory, Clergy-Laity Congress, and Commission Conference August 3rd through August 12th, A.D. 2007.
Synodal Consistory and Conference 2007
METROPOLITAN ANNOUNCES SYNOD AND CONFERENCE FOR 2008 By His Beatitude Metropolitan Archbishop Stephen I am asking all my
brothers and sisters in Christ God to make plans to be with me at the next Synodal Consistory and Clergy-Laity Congress, and the Commission Conference in 2008. I am asking that all be present for this most important event in the
life of our Church. The attendance in 2007 was most disappointing and I believe in my heart that all will make an honest effort to make next year a time of joy.
I have set the Synodal Consistory and Clergy-Laity Congress to begin on Saturday August 2nd, 2008 and to end on Thursday August 7th, 2008, with the Commission Conference opening on Friday August 8th
, 2008 and ending on Sunday August 10th, 2008. The Synodal sessions will begin at 11:00 a.m. each day and end at 8:30 p.m. each day with Vespers on the days announced. The Commission sessions will begin at 10:00 a.m. and
end at 9:00 p.m. each day. The Commission Conference does not end until after Divine Liturgy on Sunday August 10th, 2008 and those who do not attend the closing Liturgy will not be awarded annual CEU credits for
attendance. It is honorable for all providers to end such an event by giving worship and thanksgiving to God. In my years as a priest, Diocesan Bishop, Archbishop and Metropolitan, I have always had the greatest
respect and admiration for those who serve the healing ministry of God. I have worked hard to see the Commission fully established and opened to all sincere persons, and protected by the canons of the Church. In so doing, I have
suffered greatly over the years. Those who come and participate to the end of the Conference by attending Liturgy are to be commended, for you realize who and what you are in relationship to God. My prayer now is for all that serve
the Commission to realize this very same thing and show it this coming year as we end the annual Conference. 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 7
th 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. |